Northgate Living CA January 2022

Mailed Directly to Northgate Residents and Published Online

JANUARY 2022

Northgate LIVING CA

Meet Amy and Monique: Two women who think globally and act locally Photo by Julie Cheshire Photography

Our Mission Learn - about our neighbors and our community

We share ideas, stories, pictures and events. We have no writing staff or hired agencies, we are simply residents with a passion for our community. Do you know a resident with an amazing story or special talent? We’d love to talk to them.

Share - find and recommend the best, local trusted businesses with our neighbors We rely on the support of our sponsors/advertisers each month.

They care about our community and want to earn your business.

Please thank our advertisers by hiring and recommending them. Do you know an amazing business that would like to be a part of our community? We’d love to talk to them.

Support - local businesses, worthy causes, schools, charities, nonprofits and fundraisers We support hundreds of nonprofits, charities and events. Do you have a worthy cause that we should support? Please reach out to us.

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JANUARY 2022

Berumen Tree Care Services Commercial & Residential

Tree Trimming Tree Removal

Pruning Tree Care

Free Estimates

Stump Grinding Firewood Cutting

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

Table of Contents Letter to Residents

04

Expert Contributors List

05

Meet Amy and Monique: Two women who think globally and act locally

06

ARF Adoption Stars

08

Real Estate Statistics

09

Calendar of Events

10

Hope Solutions’ Annual Gala

11

Local dogs bring home the ribbons!

12

Dieback vs. Deadwood

14

Pecan Tassies

15

Yummy-Yam Soup

16

New Year, New Goals and a Very Different World

17

Ring in the New Year with a New Look!

18

Cover Article

Non-profit Event Local Sports

Expert Contributor

Recipe Recipe

Expert Contributor Expert Contributor

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE APPTS Award-Winning Holistic Clinic

Telehealth visits PSYCHOTHERAPY WEEKLY FOOD DELIVERY SERVICE

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

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

THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE, ACUPUNCTURE, BODYWORK, ENERGY MEDICINE

Free 15-min Consultation - www.BodyLoveCafe.com

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 3

Dear Neighbors, Publication Team Publisher: Jo Peek

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

Contributing Photographer: Julie Cheshire

Advertising Contact: Jo Peek Email: JPeek@bestversionmedia.com

Feedback/Ideas/Submissions: Have feedback, ideas, or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 10th of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.”

You may also email your thoughts, ideas, and photos to: Knavolio@bestversionmedia.com.

Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2022 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

Happy New Year!! Did you make any resolutions? Have you learned anything during 2021 that you are bringing into 2022? For me, I’m focusing on joy and gratefulness, each day finding that peace that comes from nature or connecting with a loved one. Here’s to a year of growth, healing, and happiness for all of us!

In this issue you will meet two entreprenuers who live in the neighborhood and have joined forces to support each other and offer solutions for healthier, more sustainable living. Be sure to check out the story of Amy and Monique.

You will also find informational articles from our experts and some fun resident articles from your own neighbors. Each month we are dedicated to bringing you the stories and events that you want to read about. If you have something to share, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re also always looking for our next great cover - so if you know of a person or family that you think would be great, please nominate them! You can reach me at knavolio@bestversionmedia.com.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @NorthgateLivingCA. Send us your photos and events!

Warm regards,

Kara Navolio Northgate Living CA Content Coordinator Resident Since 1991

Find us online NorthgateLivingCA www.NorthgateLivingCA.com

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JANUARY 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

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

Financial Advice

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

Functional Medicine & Nutrition

Dr. Brandy Zachary, DC, IFMCP discovered the power of Functional Medicine first hand when a “mystery illness” left her declared permanently disabled. Unwilling to accept that diagnosis, she fought back and launched Body Love Cafe, an award-winning holistic health clinic.

BLC is all about natural medicine that meets cutting-edge science to provide answers as to why you don’t feel well. We hear you. We see you.

We believe you. It’s not in your head and we’ve got the technique and labs to show why.

Patients have said “Dr. Zachary figures out why you feel like crap but your MD says you’re fine.”

Hardscape Restoration

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

Insurance Services

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

Jewelry, Diamonds & Timepieces

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

Life Dental & Orthodontics Brian J. Hockel, DDS 925-357-3630 admin@lifedentalortho.com www.lifedentalortho.com Gordon Reese Gordon Reese Design Build (925) 885-3770 Marketing@GordonReese.com GordonReese.com Element Wealth Management Chris J. Held, CFP®, CRPS® CA Insurance #0E56816 (925) 433-9533 chris.held@elementwm.com www.elementwm.com Body Love Cafe Dr. Brandy Zachary, DC, IFMCP (925) 788-6300 Team@BodyLoveCafe.com www.BodyLoveCafe.com Concrete Paver Restorations Drew Bogetti 408-828-6903 www.cprpaver.com drew@cprpaver.com Crusberg-Decker Insurance Services, Inc. Scott Decker and Patrick Decker (925) 239-0004 Scott@cdinsurance.com Patrick@cdinsurance.com http://www.cdinsurance-walnutcreek.com/ Steve Padis Steve Padis Jewelry info@padisjewelry.com www.padisjewelry.com

Landscaping

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

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

Real Estate

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

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.

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

Sports Medicine

Precision Sports Medicine & Chiropractic Dr. Christopher Matock, DC CCSP (925) 322-8074 info@precisionsportsmedicine.com www.precisionsportsmedicine.com

Tree Service

John Traverso Traverso Tree Service (925) 930-7901 traversotree@gmail.com www.traversotree.com

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.

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.

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 5

Resident Feature

A

my Golan and Monique Pickering, both local moms and entrepreneurs, met through their mutual concern for our environment. Their friendship started through their participation in a local group called Green Team Alliance. Amy runs the Green Team for Bancroft Elementary where her daughter, Carmel, attends their Spanish Immersion Program, and Monique runs the Recycle Club for Walnut Acres Elementary where her children attend.

Amy and her husband, Amir, and their three kids moved to Northgate in 2008. Her two older kids attended Walnut Acres, Foothill and Northgate High School. Jordan is now at UCLA studying mechanical engineering, and Dylan is a senior at Northgate. Amy started Planet Renu in 2018 as her own journey to live more sustainably led her to want to help spread the word and offer consumers like herself alternatives to plastic. “My passion is protecting our beautiful lands and oceans by reducing one’s usage of plastic products and products housed in plastic containers,” says Amy. “We offer a wide variety of products that are mostly plastic replacements, including my own private label, high quality eco brands, and organic refills.”

She has been primarily selling her products at farmers’ markets, at schools and local businesses as well as online.

Meet Amy and Monique: Two women who think globally and act locally

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

Monique moved to the Northgate area in 2013 with her husband, Justin, and daughter Sienna, who is now 9. A son, Rylan, was born here and is now 6 years old. She has been teaching yoga for 8 years.

“Yoga is now an inseparable part of my life.” She is an Iyengar influenced Certified Yoga Instructor and has furthered her studies with Elise Browning Miller as a yoga instructor for those with scoliosis.

She has been dreaming of opening her own yoga studio with a zero-waste store for many years. And with her interest in sustainability and her work with the recycling club at Walnut Acres, she saw Amy as the perfect fit with her vision. “We felt yoga and environmentally cautious people go hand in hand,” says Monique. The idea to combine a yoga studio with a retail space where Amy could sell her ecofriendly products was born, and they launched the space in September 2021 at 2121 Ygnacio Valley Rd. Amy adds, “To foster a healthy lifestyle, Planet Renu is located within Mount Diablo Yoga Center and shares a common space where clients have access to a myriad of great classes.”

Amy and Monique are active volunteers, helping in many ways at their kids’ schools and in the community. Amy also volunteers at a local homeless shelter and food pantries such White Pony Express. Monique is the contact for the Rancho

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JANUARY 2022

Amy Golan and family in San Luis Obispo

San Miguel Neighborhood Association regarding environmental questions. She and her family also have a beehive of 25,000 bees. “We are proud to help Mother Nature by having a beehive,” adds Monique. “We love to watch and care for our bees as a family affair.” Monique brought Amy to Walnut Acres’ International Day where kids could get their passports stamped at “Eco Country” and learn about protecting the environment.

Perhaps their global thinking was inspired by their vast travels. Amy attended college in Paris and worked in New York in the fashion industry. She and her family frequently travel to Europe, South America, and Israel to visit their family there.

Monique was born in Dresden, Germany, lived in Australia (scuba diving all the way around the continent with her future husband), married in Thailand, and returns each summer to Germany to visit family.

The Pickering family at Weihenstephan er Biergarten in Mun - the oldest brewer ich y in Germany. (The kids actuall Apfelschorle - Apple juice with sparkling y drink an water.)

Both of these women are grateful to have their businesses right here in the Northgate neighborhood, the place they have chosen to call home, and to be helping others learn how to live more healthy and sustainably.

Do you know a neighbor who has a story to share? Nominate your neighbor to be featured in one of our upcoming issues! Contact us at knavolio@bestversionmedia.com.

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 7

Pet Corner

Frisbee

ARF Adoption Stars

By Cole Kuiper, ARF

Miles

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.

One-year-old Frisbee is a lot of fun and enjoys romping around and playing with people and doggie friends. This pup will learn quickly by using yummy treats. He enjoys his playtime with people and loves a good romp with one of his dog friends. In fact, we recommend that Frisbee goes to a home with another dog to help expend his energy. Frisbee currently weighs 52 pounds.

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

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

ARF adoption fees: $250 for an adult dog, $350 for a puppy (<6 months), $125 for a special- needs dog, $175 for a special-needs puppy (<6 months), and $125 for a senior dog (7+ years).

Seven-month-old Miles is a sweet and charming lad. He likes to explore his surrounding and take naps, hopefully in a place where he can grab a birds-eye view.

Miles will make a great companion for just about anyone! Plus, his adoption fee has already been prepaid by a generous admirer.

ARF Adoption fees: $100 for an adult cat, $150 for a kitten (<6 months), $150 for two adult cats, $250 for two kittens, $50 for a special-needs cat, $75 for a special-needs kitten (<6 months), and $50 for a senior cat (7+ years).

LEGACIES START HERE. WE WANT TO HEAR YOUR STORY! ● Tell your kid’s story with BVM Sports – the #1 place for the latest in local, college and pro sports coverage. ● Share your story with one of the most trusted names in local sports news. ● See your story published across all BVM Sports media platforms!

Follow the latest in sports news with our podcast, CHALK TALK – streaming on YouTube.

Interested in sharing? Go to www.BVMSports.com and click “Submit A Story”.

FREE, EASY, & FAST • NO ACCOUNT NEEDED! LIKE | COMMENT | SHARE | FOLLOW 8

JANUARY 2022

Active Listings Address List Price 3533 Perada Dr 2424 Elgin Ln 109 Bexley Pl

$1,650,000 $1,475,000 $1,395,000

Pending Listings Address List Price 42 Comistas Ct 612 Timberleaf Ct 3625 Vista Charonoaks 3138 Cafeto Dr 569 Banyan Cir 650 La Casa Via

$3,300,000 $2,520,000 $2,250,000 $1,799,000 $1,770,000 $1,498,000

Sold Listings Address Sold Price 3314 Inverness Dr 3145 Peachwillow Ln 936 Natchez Ct 2415 Blackstone Dr 329 Castle Rock Rd 2610 San Benito Dr 3653 Chucker Ct 2308 Lomond Ln

$2,076,000 $1,900,000 $1,800,000 $1,725,000 $1,707,000 $1,700,000 $1,675,000 $1,650,000

Real Estate

Real Estate is proudly sponsored by The Rita Dhillon Team

BD 4 4 4

BD 7 4 4 9 4 3

BD 5 6 5 5 3 4 4 4

BT

SQFT

2.5 2 2.5

2,167 1,894 2,049

BT

SQFT

4.5 3 3.5 6 3 2

4,805 3,106 3,904 3,943 2,358 1,888

BT

SQFT

3 2.5 2 3 2 2 2.5 2

2,679 2,399 2,810 2,563 1,692 1,810 2,162 2,159

DOM 3 11 12

Real Estate DOM Listings 9 in 1 6 Northgate 21 21 9

12/10/2021

DOM 7 1 12 4 7 8 5

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

Rita Dhillon Team

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

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

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 9

January CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Through Jan. 9 Walnut Creek on Ice

@Civic Park The sparkle returns to Civic Park this holiday season. Check website for times and days of operation: walnutcreekdowntown.com.

Tues., Jan. 11 Arrested Development: A Conversation about the Impact of COVID-19 on students

@virtual event The Walnut Creek Library Foundation’s signature series Live! From the Library will present a panel of local school principals and experts that will explore how we navigate the social challenges of returning to school after COVID-19 turned classrooms upside down. Licensed Clinical Health Psychologist and Assistant Professor of Public Health at California State University, East Bay, Michael V. Stanton, PhD, will moderate a conversation that explores how the pandemic has affected our students, focusing on specific challenges and behavioral issues by age group. The panel will also explore best practices, how to advocate for your child in these new circumstances, and tools to use at home.

Cost: Free Time: 7-8:30pm

Sat. Jan 15 Bromeliads at the Ruth Bancroft Garden

@Ruth Bancroft Garden The Bromeliad Family is a large group of plants from the Americas, notable for its many outstanding ornamentals as well as one well-known fruit: the pineapple. While many members of the family are tropical in origin and grown outdoors only in warmweather places such as Brazil and Hawaii, others do quite well in Walnut Creek’s more temperate climate. Many of the latter ones are terrestrial bromeliads (such as Puya, Dyckia and Hechtia) – that is, ones that grow in soil rather than perched in trees like so many of their tropical relatives. In this webinar with Brian Kemble (Curator),

we will look at a wide range of species and hybrids that we have grown at RBG. Time: 10-11am To learn more visit Ruthbancroftgarden.org

Thurs., Jan. 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-remodeling-seminar/ or by phone (925) 885-3770 Cost: Complimentary Time: 6-8pm

Throughout January If a Tree Falls: Art of the Boundary Oak

@Bedford Gallery, Lesher Center for the Arts This exhibit memorializes the City of Walnut Creek’s signature Valley Oak, which was sadly destroyed during a massive windstorm in October 2019. In honor of the tree’s life and history, which experts say spanned 325 years, the artists in the exhibition will create artworks from its wood. In doing so, these artists help to offer this monumental being a second life. Featuring a roster of artists from our local community and the broader Bay Area, If a Tree Falls will feature a wide range of artworks—made exclusively for this exhibition—in a striking variety of forms and in conjunction with many different mediums.

All will incorporate our beloved oak tree, a rare opportunity to view a common thread among a diverse roster of artists, in this inclusive, community-driven exhibition.

Cost: $5

10

Time: Gallery open from Thurs. – Sun., 12-5pm, excluding holidays

Any day Public Art Self-Guided Audio Tour

Enjoy a self-guided audio tour of Public Art in Walnut Creek, featuring 33 stops about the artwork in the downtown area. Look for the pink and orange Public Art signs around town, located by artworks. Dial the number on the signs to hear about that artwork.

More information: https:// www.bedfordgallery.org/ public-art/public-art-tours Cost: free

Every Saturday Farmers’ Market

@Castle Rock Farm, 700 Castle Rock Rd. Local farmers and neighbors provide organic produce grown right in the Northgate neighborhood.

Time: 10am-4pm www.castlerockfarmstand.com

Save the Date: Tues., Feb. 8 Live! From the Library presents: Rachel Howzell Hall: A Woman of Mysteries

@virtual event The Walnut Creek Library Foundation’s signature series Live! From the Library will present award-winning mystery writer Rachel Howzell Hall, a prolific author of mystery novels that include a series featuring Detective Elouise “Lou” Norton, an AfricanAmerican homicide detective, and her latest thriller, These Toxic Things. Mystery writer and host, David Corbett, will engage Rachel in a conversation about her writings and experiences as an L.A. area mystery writer.

Cost: Free Time: 7-8pm Register: https://www.wclibrary.org/live/

JANUARY 2022

Non-profit Event

Hope Solutions’ Annual Gala

By Carrie H. Veurink, Hope Solutions

Saturday, March 5, 2022 Join us for Hope Solutions’ annual gala: Ruby Slippers – There’s No Place Like Home on Saturday, March 5th at the Blackhawk Museum in Danville. The evening includes an exciting silent and live auction and features entertainment by David Martin’s House Party. All proceeds benefit local homeless and at-risk families and individuals in Contra Costa County.

Learn More at

Use link: https://hopesolutions.ejoinme.org/MyEvents/2022RubySlippers or www.hopesolutions.org

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 11

Local Sports

Local dogs bring home

the ribbons!

By Ricky Helton, Local Sports

A

s I’m writing this, my wife and son have just arrived to compete in the AKC National Dog Show held in Orlando,Florida. My boy, Justice Helton, and his Grand Champion Bitch, Larcan’s Bailey’s on Ice, finished 2nd in the nation for Owner Handler last year. My wife and her baby, Larcan’s Meritage Mele, finished 4th in the Nation.

We chose to only travel with one this time. We have a couple of Lagotto Romagnolos, also known as the truffle dogs. I’m super stoked for their weekend ahead. It’s about the journey not the destination. Though they do perform in the ring, they’re loved family pets at the same time.

Anyways I hope you all have had a great Holiday season and an even better New Year ahead.

Find Share AND

more local sports articles just like this on BVMSports.com

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JANUARY 2022

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Expert Contributor

Dieback vs.

Deadwood

By John Traverso, Traverso Tree Service

T

rees are in the business of producing healthy branches with lots of green foliage, so when a branch dies, it’s a cause for concern and as arborists, we want to know why. So here is an explanation on how to read the deadwood in your tree and better understand what your tree is telling you.

Isn’t dieback and deadwood the same thing?

All dieback is deadwood, but not all deadwood is dieback. There is a difference between the two.

What is deadwood?

Deadwood is any woody part of the tree that has died for any reason.

Deadwood occurs frequently in crowded forests where trees are competing for sunlight. As the trees grow, they block the sun from reaching the lower branches, and over time, those branches die from a lack of sunlight. When there is more space between the trees and more sunlight reaching the base, you will find more live branches on the lower half of the tree. On deciduous trees, where the canopy is more rounded, deadwood will occur in the interior of the tree for the same reason: lack of sunlight.

What is dieback?

Dieback tends to form on the exterior portions of the tree where sunlight is accessible. You’ll see the dead branches at the top of the trees, but there appears to be healthy foliage below the dieback. The tree is telling you that there is something wrong.

What causes dieback in a tree?

Dieback is typically evidence of the early stage of drought stress due to a lack of water, either from minimal application or the destruction of roots due to construction. A lack of water can weaken the tree and make it more susceptible to insect infestation and/or diseases. The green foliage located in the lower part of the canopy tells you that the tree can produce new foliage but doesn’t have enough water to push it up to the top of the tree. As the drought continues throughout 2021 and possibly into 2022, we will see more trees with dieback.

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JANUARY 2022

What should I do if I have dieback in my tree?

it back from the brink. Depending on how extensive the dieback is, there is a possibility that its removal will leave the tree misshapen, and you might be tempted to ask the arborist to shape the tree by removing green foliage for balance. But if you really want to save the tree you may have to live with a lopsided tree until it recovers.

Here is what an arborist might recommend:

Hopefully, this article has given you insight into the health of your tree and information on how to interpret deadwood. As always, if you have any questions about your tree do not hesitate to call our office and set up an appointment to meet with one of our arborists!

The most important thing you can do is consult with a certified arborist. They have the experience and knowledge to confirm what is causing the dieback and make recommendations based on the tree’s overall health.

•

The tree may have too much dieback and has entered the death spiral where no amount of pruning and/or watering will bring it back. It may be a waste of money to try and save it, so the arborist may recommend its removal. However, if you are determined to do whatever it costs to save the tree, they may recommend a “Two-Part Removal” where you remove the dieback now with the understanding that the tree may die and have to be removed at a later date.

•

The arborist may recommend the removal of dieback for safety reasons (If left long enough deadwood will eventually break off and fall to the ground) and to set a baseline to see if the tree is recovering or continuing to decline.

•

If you have cut back on your watering because of the drought, you might consider watering your tree.

What does it mean when the arborist recommends to “remove dieback only”?

Usually, it means the tree is on the knife-edge between further decline and death or recovering and continuing to live. The arborist knows that every green leaf is critical to the tree’s recovery. Those green leaves are going to produce the food to feed the tree and bring

Recipe

Pecan Tassies

By Kristin Shopp, Resident since 2014

This southern treat is always surprisingly popular!

•

½ cup butter or margarine, softened

•

3 oz cream cheese, softened

•

1 cup all-purpose flour

2. Place the dough balls into the ungreased cups of a mini muffin plan. Use your fingers to press up the sides to make a tart shell.

•

2 tbsp butter or margarine, melted

3. Melt the butter, then stir in the brown sugar, egg, and vanilla.

•

¾ cup packed brown sugar

•

1 egg

4. Finely chop the pecans and add them to the batter bowl contents and mix well.

•

1 tsp vanilla

•

1 cup pecan halves, finely chopped

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F For the tart shells, beat the butter and cream cheese in mixer until well-blended, add flour and mix until a soft dough is formed. Put in the fridge for 30 minutes.

5. Fill each tart shell with a level scoop of the filling (do not overfill). Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cookies are light golden brown. Remove the pan from the oven, and let the cookies cool in the pan for 3 minutes.

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 15

Recipe

Yummy-Yam Soup

By Lisa Assoni, Resident since 2015 A Perfect start for the New Year They’re really sweet potatoes in disguise, but don’t let this one fool you. It’s so delicious. It’s makes plenty for sharing!

• • • • • • •

1 tablespoon butter 1 cup fresh yam (shredded) 1 small onion, diced 2 cups canned yams 3 1/2 cups milk 2 tablespoons flour 2 tablespoons pecans (optional) 1⁄2 teaspoon cinnamon

Using a large non-stick pot, add butter, melt. Add onion and fresh yams. Sauté until golden brown. Add yams, milk, flour, pecans and cinnamon to a blender.

Puree’. Add to pot. Cook until hot. Stir often.

The fresh yams add texture. Should your palate prefer a smoother taste, puree the onions and yams as well. Be certain to cool before adding to blender. Then re-heat and eat.

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16

JANUARY 2022

Expert Contributor

New Year, New Goals

and a Very Different World

By Dr. Brandy Zachary, DC, AFMCP with Body Love Cafe, Northgate Resident since 2019

L

ast year we dove into 2021 with excitement, ready to tackle our goals & declare it the BEST YEAR EVER! Little did we know what was on the horizon!

How to move forward:

STEP ONE: Fearless Self Inventory

If 2021 was actually a good year for you, then great, celebrate the wins. If it was a crummy year, then recognize that, we can’t address something if we hide from it.

STEP TWO: Feel, Process

Not always fun, but part of being human & if we “stuff” feelings, they have a way of showing up when we least expect them or impacting our health.

STEP THERE: Make the Plan- take inventory.

What is not working? What do you need to change? What do you want?

The inventory is a powerful tool for self-improvement, but creating the plan and taking the NEXT STEP is essential to move forward.

Now, it’s time to clean up the mess.

Our 12th Body Love Challenge begins in January - an incredible free health class series and weight loss challenge.

information. When the issue is more complex or support is needed, just reach out to the clinic for help.

• Topics covered LIVE via Zoom in January - all are welcome!

January 2022

The Body Love Challenge

Class 1 - Weight Loss issues, challenges and solutions Class 2 - The Chemistry of Food, sugar cravings and more Class 3 - Stress, Sleep, Thyroid and Adrenal issues Class 4 - Hormonal imbalances, fatigue, gut health and digestive issues Class 5 - Mental health, cardiac health and exercise It’s NEVER too late to begin again! We hope you find your community to provide support along your health journey and wish you a fabulous 2022!

Learn more at www.BodyLoveCafe.com

We have an abundance of free education to support you. I’ve listed the upcoming live class topics and here is a list of content you may access any time at the Body Love Cafe website (click the Videos tab).

Educational videos:

• Depression Sucks: What you need to know on the road to recovery • Bloated! Find out why - the answers you have been waiting for • Heart Health, Thyroid/Adrenal Health, Brain Health

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NORTHGATE LIVING CA 17

Expert Contributor

Ring in the New Year with a New Look!

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

H

appy New Year from our family to yours! This is the perfect time to kick off the New Year by re-doing the ring you wear and enjoy daily. Resetting your diamond is a great way to get a whole new look. Whether you have a pear-shape, marquise or a classic round brilliant diamond, we at Padis Jewelry can show you the hottest new styles that you will be sure to love.

There are endless reasons as to why you would want to re-set your center diamond into a new mounting. Tired of your old setting, not happy with the quality of the ring, the ring was not a design you truly wanted, or you perhaps fell head over heels with a design you saw on Padis Jewelry’s Instagram account? We’re here to help! When updating a ring or remounting your center diamond, there is always the question: well what can I do with my old mounting (setting)?!

There are a number of different options, some naturally more costeffective than others.

Still love your ring the way it is? Stop by for a complimentary cleaning service. You’d be surprised at what it can do!

Whatever you choose, your rings should be always reflection of your love and spark memories of the moments shared throughout your life. Our team at Padis Jewelry is happy to assist you in any way.

Don’t hesitate to visit us at the store, give us a call or shoot us an email at 415-861-5388 or Concierge@padisjewelry.com.

The first option is to keep it! Some of us like to plan ahead and think in terms of taking care of those we love, so keeping your old mounting to make a gift for a loved one, or helping your soon to be son-in-law marry your daughter, is one sentimental option. You can set a complimentary cubic zirconia in it and keep it as a travel ring for vacations.

The next option is to have it set with a colored gemstone. Sapphires, emeralds, and amethysts can turn your old mounting into a beautiful, colored-stone ring. This will allow you to keep your ring which may hold sentimental value and wear it as an alternative to your new engagement ring.

Remember, no matter the shape of your diamond, it can be remounted into a beautiful new setting. It can be difficult to let go of something with so much personal value attached to it, but Padis Jewelry can help guide you toward the best option for what to do with your piece, and make sure you are well educated in all the different options.

18

JANUARY 2022

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 19

Rita Dhillon Team

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

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