Northgate Living Magazine December 2019

Mailed Directly to Northgate Residents and Published Online

DECE MBER 2 019

Northgate LIVING

MEET

“Teen Leaders for Change”: Making a Difference in Walnut Creek and Beyond COVER PHOTO:

by Julie Cheshire Photography

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DECEMBER 2019

We Are Now Online!!

Publication Team Publisher: Jo Peek

Content Coordinator: Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991 Designer: Emily Lund 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. © 2019 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

www.NorthgateLivingCA.com

Dear Neighbors, As we begin our third year of Northgate Living, I want to thank you all for reading, submitting your stories, and calling upon our sponsors when you are in need of their services.

We have all been through a crazy fall with wild winds, power shut offs, and fires all around Northern California. This month we share information about how to better prepare ourselves and our homes in articles by expert contributor Gordon Reese and our Northgate CERT team.

In this issue, you will also meet an amazing group of teens who are changing the way we think and talk about mental health and wellness.

I wish you all a happy holiday season; check out our calendar for some fun ways to celebrate and get in the spirit.

Kara Navolio Northgate Living Content Coordinator Resident Since 1991

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DECEMBER 2019

Expert Contributors Happy Holidays!

Mention this ad to learn more about our

New Year 2018 Move-In Special!

Place a holding deposit before January 1st & The Heritage Downtown will donate $1,000 to the Charity of your Choice this Holiday Season!

Discover the Almond / Shuey Neighborhood, Home to our Boutique, Condo-Style Senior-Living Community!

Call 925.943.7427

to learn more, and to schedule your visit!

www.TheHeritageDowntown.com 1785 Shuey Avenue

(off of Bonanza & California)

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

Active Seniors

The Heritage Downtown is “the” Bay Area’s #1 Active Senior Living Apartments, focused on providing the highest Quality of Life for each and every one of its residents. The Heritage Downtown promotes, facilitates and encourages our residents to continue to lead a Full Active Life in Retirement. The Heritage Downtown is beautifully and conveniently located in Downtown Walnut Creek.

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!

Functional Medicine & Nutrition

Dr. Zachary was a patient first after a “mysterious illness” caused her to be written off by conventional medicine as permanently disabled and told she’d never recover. She refused to listen, used Functional Medicine to fight back and astounded all with her return to health. She then founded Body Love Cafe so others may have the same healing opportunity. Dr. Zachary is passionate and determined to help her patients thrive.

Healthy Aging Medicine

Dr. Kim graduated from the University of Pennsylvania and the Temple University School of Medicine. He completed a Family Medicine Residency at the Carle Clinic in Champaign, Illinois. He started in private practice in Clayton, CA. However, frustrated with the reactive form of medicine, Dr. Kim went for additional training and is now board-certified in Anti-Aging Medicine and in Obesity Medicine. Dr. Kim now practices a more proactive approach to medicine known as Valengerontology (Healthy Aging Medicine). Dr. Kim lives in Danville with his wife and 2 children.

Insurance

Vanessa Sisemore, owner of a Farmers Insurance agency since 2016, grew up in Walnut Creek and received her college degree from UNLV in 2006. She is the loving wife to Isaac of 7 years and mother to 3-year-old daughter Mckenzie. After working for Farmers for 8 years, Vanessa is proud to serve people in the community that have given her so much.

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.

Plastic Surgery

Dr. Vivian Ting (Veritas Plastic Surgery) is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Walnut Creek, California in practice since 2003. She specializes in cosmetic rejuvenation of the face, breast augmentation and body contouring as well as reconstruction for breast and skin cancer. Her philosophy is to combine proven surgical techniques with the best in technology to achieve superior results and high patient satisfaction.

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.

Rodent Proofing

Anthony and Mike are the owners of Honest Rodent Proofing Inc. They have over 25 years of combined experience in business ownership, marketing/sales, and in the pest control industry. Mike lives in the Sacramento area with his wife and three girls. Anthony lives in Walnut Creek with his wife and three kids. In our business there are 3 simple rules we live by. One, treat every home as if it was your own. Two, Honesty and transparency is the only way to conduct business. Three, Family is not an important thing, it’s everything!

We are a family here at Honest and our customers are part of that family.

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.

Wealth Management & Financial Planning

David and Frank started Nissim & Gavidia Wealth Management & Financial Planning, LLC to give their clients the flexibility and independence that they deserve. They pride themselves in working with families and understanding their long terms goals, from retirement to setting things up for the next generation by removing emotions from investing and taking the time to understand their client’s individual needs.

Jenny Shively The Heritage Downtown www.theheritagedowntown.com (925) 943-7427 Gordon Reese Gordon Reese Design Build (925) 885-3770 Marketing@gordonreese.com Gordonreese.com

Body Love Cafe Dr. Brandy Zachary, DC, AFMCP (925) 788-6300 Team@BodyLoveCafe.com www.BodyLoveCafe.com

Paul H. Kim, MD Medical Institute of Healthy Aging (925) 979-0979 www.mdiha.com Vanessa Sisemore Vanessa Sisemore Insurance Agency (925) 943-6762 vsisemore@farmersagent.com www.farmersagent.com/vsisemore Steve Padis Steve Padis Jewelry info@padisjewelry.com www.padisjewelry.com

Dr. Vivian Ting Veritas Plastic Surgery (925) 949-8587 www.viviantingmd.com Rita Dhillon Compass Real Estate (925) 570-1010 Rita.Dhillon@compass.com www.RitaDhillonTeam.com Mike Scott and Anthony Lozano Honest Rodent Proofing (925) 433-3988 customercare@honestrodentproofing.com www.honestrodentproofing.com John Traverso Traverso Tree Service (925) 930-7901 traversotree@gmail.com www.traversotree.com

David Nissim & Frank Gavidia Nissim & Gavidia Wealth Management & Financial Planning, LLC David (925) 239-0117 Frank (925) 239-0116 DavidNissim@NissimGavidia.com FrankGavidia@NissimGavidia.com www.NissimGavidia.com

Find us online NorthgateLivingCA www.NorthgateLivingCA.com

NORTHGATE LIVING 5

Resident Feature

TL4C Club hopes that events like drum circles can bring the community together.

MEET

“Teen Leaders for Change”: Making a Difference in Walnut Creek and Beyond

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

R

ecently a group of six teens came together to create a club dedicated to “doing wellness right.” The club, Teen Leaders for Change, also known as TL4C, was formed as a result of each teen’s interest to change the way society views mental health and the approach to emotional well-being. They each believe in the power of Behavioral Fitness and how it taught them to see how they can support each other and themselves in healthy ways. Their motto became “Treating Depression doesn’t have to be Depressing.” The group’s mission is to increase emotional well-being in the communities they serve through education, technology, and having fun together.

The new club is starting off by focusing on a business plan that includes reducing the stigma around mental health, helping people work better together, and reducing anxiety and depression. They spend time discussing the best way to talk to the community about these issues. As club member Dylan Giesecke, a sophomore at Northgate High School (NHS) who aspires to give TED Talks, says, “We know that there will be some late adopters to a teen group who is talking so openly about their experiences with mental health, and we just want to make sure that we build a well developed support system for one another… we know that we are really doing something courageous here.”

TL4C has set up a website (https://www.comprehensivewellness.org/ groups/teens-change/), and pages on Facebook (wedowellnessright) and Instagram (wedowellnessright), and outlined roles and responsibilities for each member. Erfan Moradi, one of the founding club members, is committed to getting the club’s social media platforms active and a place for our community to go and learn more about how to get involved and learn more. This is where the group will post and recognize people in the community who are “doing wellness right.”

The club aims to create opportunities and events that encourage other teens to explore new and unique ways to become Behaviorally Fit. One of their first events was a workshop, called “Improv for Social Change,” taught by NHS teacher John Litten. Giesecke adds, “While improv is an awesome way to build relationships and have fun…. it can also be a great way to disrupt the status quo and propel new thinking. One of the goals of improv is to focus on how to set up your partner to look/sound great. You are really focusing on what it means to help someone else be their best self and what it feels like to have the same in return.”

The club also coordinated a Behaviorally Fit Drum Circle in which anyone who was interested, including parents, came together to

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DECEMBER 2019

try something new. No experience was necessary and each participant was taught to contribute to the whole in a meaningful way. “It’s very easy to jump right in,” says Savannah Ellis. They hope to make this a monthly event in Civic Park.

Other goals include completing three wellness initiatives by 2020, enlisting 25 business partners who will sponsor events, and growing the membership to 200 teens.

They are excited about new people joining, coming to meetings and getting involved in their initiatives. “We plan to grow our membership here in Northgate and the 680/24 corridor,” adds Erfan. “And once we have a real handle on all that is involved, we would like there to be TL4C chapters in other communities. For now if people want o learn more they can like us on Facebook or Instagram and send us a message.”

“I’m super proud of how we started from a simple idea and have been capable of coming together with a thoughtful plan to build a group. It’s super cool to be part of something from the grass roots,” says Charlotte Eirich, an 8th grader. Nicky DeJear, a junior who plans to study finance and make a career of helping people be financially fit, adds, “I’m proud of what we are about. You know, really celebrating people -- all people -- and how we are stopping stigma. I think we really need to talk about stuff like this more, and people need to know how to help each other.”

This group of brave young people is paving the way for people to come together and discover our similarities, embrace our differences, and build bridges so that all can experience a sense of well-being.

As Jessica Long, a junior who plans to

study psychology, says, “We are looking for nominations of adults that we can recognize for ‘doing wellness right.’ We are excited about recognizing you and your nominees for the awesome ways that people are being kind and not judging themselves and others, for example. There will be lots of ways to get involved and easily support our mission.”

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 7

Pet Adoption Corner

Custard

Dove Meet your forever friend at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: Noon to 6 pm Wednesday & Thursday, Noon to 7 pm Friday, and Noon to 6 pm Saturday & Sunday.

One-year-old Custard is a striking, playful boy.

He likes approaching people for pets and likes to sit near his favorites to enjoy the weather. He lights up when there is another dog around and loves to run around with them. He also likes to play with tennis balls and usually has one in his mouth to carry around. He would do well with anyone that can give this sweet boy all the exercise and love he wants

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 $300, for adult dogs is $250, for senior dogs (7+ years) is $125, and includes a discount on the first six-week session of a manners class.

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Two-year-old Dove is a young mother who is finishing up her maternal duties and is looking forward to a home where she can relax and be pampered. She’s a cute and outgoing young lady who will greet you with a loud non-stop purr and before long she’ll be contentedly curled up in your lap or sitting by your side. Dove is a playful girl too and enjoys chasing wand toys. You couldn’t ask for a better companion.

The adoption fee for kittens (<6 months) $125 or 2 for $200, for adult cats is $75 or 2 for $100, and for senior cats (7+ years) is $50.

DECEMBER 2019

Active Listings Address List Price 2060 Shell Ridge Trl 2484 Deer Valley Ln 710 Comanche Ct 215 Clyde Dr 3280 Newport Ct 609 Colby Ct

$2,125,000 $1,985,000 $1,390,000 $1,395,000 $1,375,000 $1,050,000

Pending Listings Address List Price 2070 Shell Ridge Trl 117 Brodia Way 215 Pickering Pl 955 Cheyenne Dr 761 Hutchinson Rd 616 Harrogate Ct 366 El Divisadero Ave

$2,700,000 $2,250,000 $1,375,000 $1,319,000 $1,299,000 $1,295,000 $1,075,000

Sold Listings Address List Price 3707 Northgate Woods Ct 123 Brodia Way 3127 Ebano Dr 888 Castle Rock Rd 3940 Arbolado Dr

$2,850,000 $2,395,000 $1,665,000 $1,699,000 $1,449,000

BD 5 4 5 4 4 4

BT

SQFT

2.5 3 2.5 2 3 2.5

3,900 4,457 3,493 2,820 2,453 2,164

DOM 112 64 47 4 5 61

Real Estate Listings in Northgate 11/10/2019

BD 5 5 5 4 5 4 4

BD 4 5 5 4 5

BT

SQFT

3.5 4.5 3 2 3 2.5 2

4,821 4,381 2,912 2,052 3,033 2,466 1,819

BT

SQFT

4.5 4.5 4.5 2.5 3

4,623 4,664 3,521 2,369 2,686

DOM 101 62 8 14 1 59 14

DOM 105 14 4 45 11

Sold Price $2,450,000 $2,285,000 $1,665,000 $1,550,000 $1,500,000

Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. Any real estate agentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ad appearing in this magazine is separate from any statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.

What if you could sell your home faster and for a higher priceâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; with no upfront costs or interest?

Call us to find out more about our Compass Concierge program.

Rita Dhillon

925.570.1010 Rita.Dhillon@compass.com DRE 01109990

Tim Dhillon

925.570.0418 Tim.Dhii lon@compass.com DRE 01521381

Khush K.

925.577.3422 Khush@compass.com DRE 01480990

www.RitaDhillonTeam.com

C0MPASS

NORTHGATE LIVING 9

December

Every Monday

Picture Book Time

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Throughout December

Walnut Creek on Ice @ Civic Park Ice skating downtown. Runs through Jan. 15.

Cost: $12-$15 www.walnutcreekonice.com

Fri., Dec. 6

Holiday Stroll @Kick-off at Water Light Public Plaza, 1500 Locust St. Join us for an evening of merriment featuring merchant open houses, extended shopping hours, sips & savors, caroling, live music, Ugly Sweater contest, Santa’s Workshop, tree decorating, plus carriage rides. Merchants will offer discounts, specials and refreshments.

Cost: Free Time: 5-9pm www.walnutcreekdowntown.com

Fri., Dec. 6 – Sun., Dec. 8

Holiday Sale @Shadelands Art Center Join us for a weekend of holiday shopping! Shop ceramics, jewelry, prints, glass, paintings and more all handcrafted by Community Arts Teaching Artists and students.

Cost: Free Time: 5-8pm www.communityarts.org

Sat., Dec. 7 and Sun., Dec. 8

What Sweeter Music: Singing the Holidays

Diablo Symphony, including Brahms’ “How Lovely Is Thy Dwelling Place” and Mozart’s “Laudate Dominum.”

They will also be leading the audience in a fun holiday sing-along.

Cost: $35 Time: 2-4pm To reserve your tickets, visit the Diablo Symphony website - https:// www.diablosymphony.org/events/ what-sweeter-music-singing-the-holidays/

Sat., Dec. 9

@Ygnacio Valley Library Helps build kindergarten readiness using longer books, flannel board stories, songs, crafts and other literacy building activities for ages 3-5. No meeting Dec. 25.

Cost: Free Time: 10:15-11am www.ccclib.org/ygnaciovalley.html

Every Saturday

Farmers’ Market @Shadelands Business Park Farmers bring their best from the nearby farming areas, kid’s craft corner, live music.

Time: 9am-1pm www.cafarmersmkts.com/ diablo-valley-farmers-market

Children’s Trim-a-tree party @Ygnacio Valley Library The Friends of Ygnacio Valley Library invite you to come any time between 3:00 and 5:00 p.m. to their Holiday tree decorating party. Make an ornament for the library’s tree. Make a few to take home. Sample a cookie or two and enjoy! Decorating supplies provided. For kids ages 5-11.

Cost: Free Time: 3-5pm www.ccclib.org

Fri., Dec. 20 and Fri., Dec. 27

Gentle Flow Yoga @Ygnacio Valley Library Join us for a free session of restorative yoga on most Friday afternoons at 5 PM in the meeting room with instructor Kristin Dominguez leading the way.

It’s free for adults 18 and over.

Cost: Free Time: 5-6pm www.ccclib.org

Save the Date…

Wed., Jan. 15 Chemistry of Food @Body Love Cafe, 3093 Citrus Circle, Ste. 125 Join Dr. Zachary and her team for a free class that will teach you the tips and tricks to use food to get the results YOU want. Dr. Zachary will share a few surprises plus bust many commonly held nutrition myths. This educational experience is designed to empower you to know HOW food works in the body including food combining, weight loss, hormone balancing and the pros/ cons behind 17 popular diets.

Cost: Free Time: 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm www.BodyLoveCafe.com

@Walnut Creek Presbyterian Church Blackhawk Chorus will have the honor of performing five pieces with The 10

DECEMBER 2019

Expert Contributor

Fireproofing and Power Outages

By Gordon Reese, Gordon Reese Design Build, Resident since 2013

A

s a resident of our Northgate neighborhood, I experienced the recent 40-hour power outage firsthand.

With it came a sense of dread, discomfort, and overwhelming uncertainty towards my home and my family’s safety. If there’s anything the last few years have shown us, it’s that our new normal is a ferocious fire season—one that now affects us all more than we could have even imagined years ago.

Now seems as good a time as any to start fireproofing your home.

Fireproofing the Exterior When your exterior space catches fire, your interior is instantly in danger. You can do a lot of natural fireproofing to your outdoor area.

Check the plants near and around your foundation. If you have highly flammable plants within fifty feet of your home, consider moving or replanting them a little further from your actual house. If you can’t uproot them, at least trim them so they’re a little neater. Coniferous trees produce a sap that is highly flammable, so keeping their branches trimmed and off the ground is another great way to avoid adding natural fuel to the fire.

Invest in Fire Resistant Plants.

If you want plants near your house or foundation, invest in fire resistant plants.

Some common examples would be Yucca, Lavender, and live Oak. Install Iron, Brick, or Concrete Fences.

White wooden picket fences do look beautiful and picturesque, but they catch fire very easily. Consider putting up a brick, concrete, or iron fence instead. Alternatively install a protective barrier made of metal or stone material between your wooden fence and your actual house.

roof. A backup generator or battery-powered lights would also be solid investments, as fires can affect your power supply. Homes are intrinsically meant to keep us—and our families—safe. Don’t hesitate to contact your design build professional for ideas and strategies to provide a safer home for you and your family.

Protect your windows.

Your windows are perhaps the weakest link in fireproofing your home. The heat of the fire alone can shatter the glass inwards, long before the flames even physically reach the window. If you have the resources for it, replace your single-glazed windows with double glazing and tempered glass. Also look into investing in other features that can add an extra layer of protection for the window itself, like fold-down panels or shutters.

Invest in special equipment.

Fireproofing your home can also entail installing a fire alarm built into your home security system or a sprinkler system on the

NORTHGATE LIVING 11

We want to hear from you!

We are looking for stories from you, our Northgate residents. Some of the columns we'd like to add are: Travel (Where have you been recently? Share your trip with us!)

Book Reviews Acts of Kindness Non-profit Spotlight Show Us Your Best Shot (photography)

Gardening Hobbies Pet of the Month Local Hikes Northgate High School Junior Reporter More ...

If you’d like to submit something, or have any questions, please email knavolio@bestversionmedia.com

Great Balls O’ Whiskey

Recipe

By Lisa Assoni, Resident since 2016

The holidays are here. Are you ready to make cookies in less than 10 minutes?

These no-bake goodies are ready to eat in no time. Perfect for a quick-ShortCut Cook recipe, you can make ahead, and even serve ‘um to Santa.

• • • • • • •

11 oz. package Vanilla Wafers 3 Tbs. cocoa powder 3 Tbs. light corn syrup ½ cup water 1 ½ cup pecans ¼ cup whiskey 1 cup powdered sugar

In blender or food processor, add wafers and pecans.

Chop finely. Mix in all other ingredients. Shape into cherry-sized balls and roll in powdered sugar. Store in airtight container in the refrigerator. Good cold. *Substitution--Rum can be used instead of whiskey, or use a flavored coffee mix.

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DECEMBER 2019

NORTHGATE LIVING 13

Expert Contributor

Are We Having Fun Yet? Welcome to the Season of Stress!

By Dr. Brandy Zachary, DC, AFMCP with Body Love Cafe

W

hether it is fun (yay, we are traveling to the snow!) or relatives (my mother-in-law always hates my cooking) or societal pressure (must get the perfect family photo for the holiday newsletter), your body will interpret it all the same as a STRESS overload!

In fact, one medical research article found that your “perception” of a situation led to physiological changes in your body regardless of how others around you perceived the same event.

Specifically, the research found that your interpretation that an event was stressful led to an increase in cortisol (one of your stress hormones), which led to a decrease of Secretory Immunoglobulin A (SIgA, one of the first lines of defense in mucous membranes) which led to a weakened immune response and then an infection.

Translated: The thought/feeling/emotion/worry about your relative criticizing you can lead to a cold.

Yes, for real.

And remember, this is also “positive” or “fun” stress because if you spike a cortisol response, your body can not interpret whether this is from joy or danger and will merely respond accordingly. Hormones react quickly in the body. I like to describe them as “Gmail” because they are rapid chemical messengers tripping off a chain reaction of responses throughout your endocrine system.

So the answer is to just relax, right?

How many times has someone who is stressed heard that and just wanted to smack the person saying it? If only it were that simple?!?

behavior or crying jags then perhaps it’s time to dig deeper. You might need more support at home or a good therapist or a functional exam including hormone levels. There’s no shame in asking for help, and so many great techniques and practitioners are available to support you!

Learn more at www.BodyLoveCafe.com and click the “Videos” tab for free classes on Stress, Hormones, and Brain Health.

Here are a few quick tips to survive the holiday stress and keep in mind it’s a work in progress, allow yourself much grace!

1. First Line of Stress Defense: Have a “toolbox” of stress-relieving strategies at the ready that work just for you and don’t be afraid to use them. Some of my patients’ personal favorites include fast-acting herbs (ex. Kava, CBD, Gaba) and calming techniques (ex. boxed breathing, chanting, vagal stimulation).

2. Plan & Have An Out: The more challenging the situation the better it is to have clear boundaries, limits on time and own what you can and cannot do.

Don’t be afraid to say “no” or cancel if that would better support your sanity. We are all overscheduled and sometimes staying home is exactly what is needed.

3. When Is It Something More?: Some Holiday Stress is to be expected, but if this is a pattern that leads to panic attacks, emotional eating, passive-aggressive 14

DECEMBER 2019

Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek

AAUW Holiday Home Tour

2019 Holid ay Home Tou r 10:00

A Friday D M – 4:00 PM ecembe r 13 Saturda y, Decem th, and ber 14t h

By Elle Bonner, Resident since 2001

Please join us this year on our fabulous Holiday Home Tour where we showcase beautiful festively decorated homes in Danville, Alamo, and Walnut Creek. Your ticket of $35 will provide scholarships for women in our communities to advance their higher education and also send 10 middle school girls from Walnut Creek and the San Ramon Valley area to a one-week Tech Trek math-science camp for girls in a 4-year university setting.

For more than thirteen years, our Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek branch of AAUW (American Association of University Women) members have put together this Holiday Home Tour to advance education and equity for women and girls.

Our Holiday Home Tour raises funds for our Tech Trek program and Local Scholarships. From the funds collected in our past Holiday Home Tour, we award local scholarships of up to $2,000-2,500 for college level women, and 10 $1,000 Tech Trek camperships for middle school girls.

Purchase tickets:

ON-LINE Via Credit Card visit https://daw-ca.aauw.net/payment/ US MAIL: Send a check postmarked by December 5th payable to AAUW CA Special Projects Fund with a self-addressed stamped #10 business size envelope to: AAUW Holiday Home Tour P.O. Box 996 Alamo, CA 94507 DIRECT PURCHASE after Nov 18: Tickets will be for sale at East Bay Flower Company 206 Sycamore Valley Rd. West (Danville Livery) 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Monday – Saturday (cash or check only).

NORTHGATE LIVING 15

Residents’ Travel Experiences

Disney’s Family Cruise offers lots of treats for families

By Ereim Harris, Resident since 2018

W

e recently went on a Disney family cruise to the Bahamas, and it was fantastic.

On the first day we went to the Mickey pool, had dinner at the Enchanted garden and saw a Broadway like show called the Golden Mickeys.

The second day we went to Nemo’s Splash Pad, went parasailing and saw the Beauty and the Best show at night.

The third day was the pirate day, so there were fireworks and a lot of fun on the ship.

Christopher was 15 months old at the time, and he loved seeing all the Disney characters, the lights, music and fun. There were so many fun things to do as a family.

For more stories follow Eriem Cristina Harris on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/eriemcristina/

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DECEMBER 2019

Tee Time

Tee it Up

at Boundary Oak Golf Course

By Lynne Harrosh

An original drawing of a golfer at hole 3 by founding member of the Men’s Club, Ed Roberts.

E

The entrance to the legendary Boundary Oak Golf Course

asy Money! Were you one of the Walnut Creek kids in the 70’s that stood in line early in the morning to book a tee time for an avid golfer at Boundary Oak Golf Course before going to school?

That’s right, back in 1969 when Boundary Oak Golf Course opened, it was hard to get a tee time. In the “olden days,” before online reservations, cell phones or even call-waiting, golfers had to dial the number on a rotary telephone to reserve a tee time in the pro shop.

The golfers paid the kids $5 per golfer to stand in line for them so they could sleep in longer.

Mike Roberts shared his love of the game with the community, just has his father had. Mike, at 82 years of age, recalled many funny stories of his time at Boundary Oak.

The Boundary Oak Golf Course, nestled in the beautiful foothills of Mt. Diablo, is one of Northern California’s top-rated public golf courses and boasts many distinguished awards. This 18-hole course designed by Robert Muir Graves has spacious fairways and greens.

On the property is a pro shop, The Taphouse Grille, an outside lounge, 3 putting greens and a 60-stall driving range. There is a flurry of activity at Boundary Oak, from weddings and golf tournaments to private lessons, Men’s and Women’s Clubs, and friends meeting up for a round of golf.

The second hole was infamous for the “Big Argument,” said Mike.

“Two players got into a heated argument on the tee and wouldn’t stop yelling. They shouted at each other all the way down to the green.

Upon arriving at the green, they went to get their putters and realized they had left the golf cart at the tee. So, of course, they began arguing about who would walk back to the tee and get the cart.”

The Head Professional at Boundary Oak in the 70’s and 80’s was Bob Boldt. Bob was on the PGA tour and worked at Boundary Oak for over 20 years. He is now a legend and continues his love of the game in Yountville.

It was during a Bing Crosby Pro Am 4-day tournament at Pebble Beach that a local fellow, Mike Roberts, caddied for Bob Boldt. Mike Roberts, from Moraga, had been a football player in high school, played minor league baseball, had a liquor business, and played golf in his free time. Bob told Mike that with his personality and knowledge of the game, he would be a great golf teacher.

Later on, when Mike was nearly 47, his doctor told him he needed to decrease his stress level, so he decided to take up the game of golf professionally.

He became a PGA member, as well as a Teaching Professional. This was a natural path for Mike since his dad, Ed Roberts, the San Francisco Chronicle Distribution Manager, had been one of the founding members of the Men’s Golf Club at Boundary Oak Sue Harrosh kicks off her when it had opened in 1969.

75th birthday celebrations!

The first hole, a par 4, requires a shot over a lake with a spouting fountain in the center where the expansive fairway slopes to the left.

Mike said it was this hole that, “Rick Barry, the 6’7” tall basketball player for the San Francisco Warriors, won a long drive contest by almost knocking the ball on the green,” nearly 360 yards.

There are old growth Walnut, Pine, Oak and Eucalyptus trees throughout the course. If a golfer gets caught in a grove of trees, not only will it be pretty tough to get a straight shot out, the ride will be quite bumpy. Mike chuckled when remembering how his wife would yell at him for driving so fast through the squirrel-hole ridden area, while trying to keep herself from bouncing out of the cart.

And, with that, I challenge you to test your skill level and make your own memories with your friends, your family and colleagues on the legendary Boundary Oak Golf Course! It may just become your new favorite local course.

First hole is a doozy! You must hit over the fountain and down the left to the fairway.

Lynne Harrosh is an avid golfer and traveler. Follow her on Facebook & Instagram @TeeItUpTravel to get connected to the best places to golf, golf technology, golf equipment, discounts on green fees, stay & plays, and golf travel lynneharrosh@me.com

NORTHGATE LIVING 17

Show us your best shot

It’s been a difficult fall for California with so many wildfires and power outages. We join our neighbors in saying “thank you” to all the first responders here and all over California.

18

DECEMBER 2019

Expert Contributor

Peptides Revisited

By Paul H. Kim, MD, Medical Institute of Healthy Aging

A

s mentioned in a previous article, peptides are chains of amino acids. Amino acids are the building block of proteins, which are one of the main classes of nutrients we ingest, and also form the foundation of many of our body parts. The difference is that proteins are comprised of thousands of amino acids, whereas peptides are composed of tens to hundreds of amino acids. The main function of the peptides seems to be as signaling molecules, meaning they represent a class of hormones. There are estimated to be over 250,000 peptides active in our body.

The peptides that were included in the previous article include:

Ipamorelin – a peptide that helps with Human Growth Hormone modulation and may have other cytoprotective effects. It may actually be safer and have more effects that Human Growth Hormone therapy itself. It actually works through a different receptor than Growth Hormone Release Hormone that is related to Ghrelin.

BPC 157 -- a peptide found in the gastric juices of humans. It has shown positive effects on both soft tissue such as tendons and also with gastric ulcers and may have a benefit in inflammatory bowel disorders, like Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis.

Thymosan Alpha -1 – a peptide found to be very important in regulating inflammatory and immune responses.

These are among the peptides that can be compounded presently and used to help patients with various ailments.

To these peptides, the following other peptides are noted:

CJC 1295 – a Growth Hormone Receptor agonist that is often used in combination with Ipamorelin to create a powerful product that stimulates natural Human Growth Hormone release and has other pleiotropic effects such as improved sleep Epithalon – a unique peptide studied in Russia that is related to the Pineal Gland. It is known for its possible longevity effects which may be mediated through its effects on telomerase enzyme to increase the length of telomeres up to 33 percent.

Thymosan Beta 4 – another thymus related peptide that helps modulate immune issues and has the added benefit of improving hair growth.

Please come to Medical Institute of Healthy Aging to consult and explore these therapies for improved health.

NORTHGATE LIVING 19

Our Community Library

Books for the Homebound

Holiday Gala

By Michael Beller, Community Library Manager

A Fundraiser benefiting

I

f you are looking for a volunteer opportunity that supports both your community and your library, please consider volunteering for Contra Costa County Library’s Books for the Homebound. Not every member of our community is able to come to the library.

For those community members whose disabilities make it difficult (if not impossible) to visit our libraries, the Contra Costa County Library offers the free, volunteer driven service, “Books for the Homebound.” We are always looking for volunteers to contribute.

The service matches volunteers with homebound library patrons living in their neighborhood. The volunteers contact the homebound patrons to find out what library materials they want, deliver the library materials, and then return the library materials once the patrons are finished with them. For patrons who are blind or have vision impairments, Books for the Homebound volunteers also facilitate the delivery of resources from the State Library’s “Braille and Talking Book Library” program.

There are a few requirements. You must be at least 18 years of age and have a valid California driver’s license, provide proof of insurance, and have access to an automobile. LiveScan fingerprinting is required and paid for by the Library.

If you would like more information about volunteering for this program, go to: http://ccclib.org/donations/volunteer.html.

If you would like to find a volunteer to help you increase your access to our libraries, go to: http://ccclib.org/donations/volunteer. html.

The First Tee of Contra Costa Dec. 19, 2019 - 6-9 pm At Boundary Oak Golf Course

$50 per person Includes: Surf and Turf Dinner Entry into Raffly Gift Boutique for Last Minute Shopping Dancing after dinner Wine tasting Register online at www.playboundaryoak.com Call Mike Ash at (925) 934-4775 x12 for more information

If you would like to find out more about this service, either as a volunteer or as a homebound community member, please call 1-800-984-4636.

20

DECEMBER 2019

Community Safety

Emergency Preparedness

By Judy Caponigro, Resident since 2016, Northgate Area CERT Team Member

J

ostled by a 4.5 earthquake. Affected by a power outage. Posted Red Flag warnings.

Northgate is seeing an increase in activity necessitating emergency preparedness. Are you prepared? If so, you are steps ahead of other residents in California. If not, now is the time to register for alerts, create plans, build â&#x20AC;&#x153;goâ&#x20AC;? kits and secure your home.

Your neighborhood CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) is a group of volunteers trained by The City of Walnut Creek to help, when needed, in emergencies. The team is trained in various skills including preparedness. The purpose of this column is to provide you with tips and resources from CERT training that will help keep you, your family and pets safe in an emergency.

Each month we will we focus on a particular subject. This month, we will start at the beginning with awareness of potential emergencies in and around Northgate.

In order to keep informed in real time, there are a number of alert warning systems that will notify you through text or e-mail.

All systems are designed for easy sign-up. The following are recommended:

Community Warning System: www.cwsalerts.com Walnut Creek Warning System, WCALERT: https://local.nixle.com/register/ PG&E Power Shut-Off Notifications: www.safetyactioncenter.pge.com PG&E Medical Device Registration: www.pge.com/medicalbaseline Please sign up for your notifications today.

Next month: Creating an escape plan (www.ready.gov/make-a-plan).

Stay Safe Out There.

Your Northgate Area CERT Team If you are interested in learning more about CERT and/or how to become a volunteer, please visit our website at www.walnut-creek. org/cert.

NORTHGATE LIVING 21

Expert Contributor

GIFT BRILLIANTLY A Holiday Tribute To The Incredible Women in Our Lives

By Steve Padis, Steve Padis Jewelry

‘T

is the season to sparkle—and spread joy, and as the holidays approach, we take a moment to appreciate the people in our lives who make it all happen.

There is something extra-special about the women in our lives who make home, “home.” My wife Judy is my rock; an amazing partner, spouse, friend, and mother to our four kids. I am so grateful to her for all she does for our family. In addition to working exceptionally hard during the holiday season alongside our team in the jewelry stores, she also does nearly all of our Christmas shopping and cooks a feast for our Christmas celebration at our home in Blackhawk for the entire family of nearly 50 people. She is remarkable in so many ways, and I feel so blessed to call her my wife.

Naturally, I am especially proud of our partnership with Forevermark on the Tribute™ Collection, a collection that celebrates the uniqueness and importance of the women and moments that make our lives special. A Forevermark diamond is distinctive for many reasons, not least of which is its unalterable inscription, located inside the heart of diamond itself – a true mark of integrity. These diamonds come with a promise: every single diamond is responsibly sourced, as well as beautiful and rare.

The Forevermark Tribute™ Collection celebrates the unique and brilliant woman who wears it. The pieces can be worn stacked or layered to reflect individual style and character. When combined, the look features multiple diamonds, paying tribute to the many qualities that together make you the incredible woman you are. The Forevermark Tribute Collection is perfect for symbolizing your own distinct traits, or for celebrating the many qualities of the woman you adore.

Less than 1% of the world’s diamonds have the qualities to become a Forevermark diamond. The rarity and beauty of the Forevermark diamond is the perfect center to a piece of jewelry to celebrate life’s most precious moments. A Forevermark diamond to commemorate those memories is the perfect marriage of strength and beauty, inspired by the women who hold our world together.

Padis Jewelry has an extensive selection of Forevermark diamonds --- in fact the largest in the country. When you visit, you’ll also find a beautiful array of fine jewelry and timepieces from many other luxury brands such as Tacori, Roberto Coin, Verragio, TAG Heuer, Michael M and Breitling, to name a few.

Our team at Padis is here and ready to help with all of your holiday shopping needs both in our stores and on our website at padisjewelry.com. Be sure to join us at our brand new East Bay location at Broadway Plaza – a Forevermark boutique!

We treasure the generations of families who allow us to become a part of their most precious moments. From our family to yours, we wish you a very happy holiday season!

22

DECEMBER 2019

NORTHGATE LIVING 23

Happy Holidays!

Pending 20928 Wilbeam Avenue, Castro Valley 2070 Shell Ridge Trail, Walnut Creek 117 Brodia Way, Walnut Creek 3559 Eris Court, Walnut Creek (Not on MLS) 616 Harrogate Court, Walnut Creek

$13,950,000 $2,700,000 $2,250,000 $1,450,000 $1,295,000

Just Sold 53 Hidden Oaks Drive, Lafayette 111 Brodia Way, Walnut Creek 3707 Northgate Woods Court, Walnut Creek 123 Brodia Way, Walnut Creek 760 Northgate Road, Walnut Creek 4215 Arbolado Drive, Walnut Creek 705 Snyder Lane, Walnut Creek 3520 Eris Court, Walnut Creek 1236 Pleasant Hill Road, Lafayette 3158 Hambletonian Lane, Walnut Creek

Sold at $3,325,000 Sold at $2,850,000 Sold at $2,450,000 Sold at $2,285,000 Sold at $2,000,000 Sold at $1,775,000 Sold at $1,620,000 Sold at $1,425,000 Sold at $1,220,000 Sold at $841,000

Rita Dhillon Team 925.570.1010 Rita.Dhillon@compass.com DRE 01109990

www.RitaDhillonTeam.com

C0MPASS 24

DECEMBER 2019