Issuu

Mailed Directly to Northgate Residents and Published Online

JULY 2022

Northgate LIVING CA

Meet Diana and Don: Returning to their roots Photo by Julie Cheshire Photography

Dear Neighbors, Publication Team Publisher: Jo Peek

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

Contributing Photographer: Julie Cheshire

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

Feedback/Ideas/Submissions: Have feedback, ideas, or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 10th of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas, and photos to: Knavolio@bestversionmedia.com. Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2022 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

Summer is here. The swim season is in full swing, the days are warmer and longer, and I hope you are enjoying the time to relax, have barbeques, and attend events again. Check out the calendar of events for lots of fun things to do. Northgate Living Magazine is your neighborhood magazine, and in this issue you’ll meet your neighbors, Diana Daymond and Don Hanna who met here in the 1970’s, traveled the world for nearly 40 years and have returned here to Northgate starting new careers. Enjoy reading about how this family built roots here even while living abroad. There are also lots of interesting articles from your neighbors about things going on right here in Walnut Creek. We are eager to hear from you with your stories, local sports, or any other topics you’ d like to share. For the latest updates follow us on Instagram or Facebook. Contact me at knavolio@ bestversionmedia.com. Warmly,

Kara Navolio Northgate Living CA Content Coordinator Resident Since 1991 Northgate Living Magazine is devoted to sharing stories, events and news among our neighbors in this wonderful community. If you have a story, event or news to share please email me at knavolio@bestversionmedia.com. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook: NorthgateLivingCA.

Find us online NorthgateLivingCA www.NorthgateLivingCA.com

JULY 2022

Expert Contributors

Dentist

Dr. Brian Hockel graduated from UCSF School of Dentistry in 1989 and has practiced dentistry for over 30 years next door to the Ygnacio Valley Library on Oak Grove Road. The recipient of numerous awards, Dr. Hockel is active in several professional organizations. He combines his cosmetic, orthodontic, airway treatment and gnathology skills to bring about great changes in people’s smiles and health.

Design, Build & Remodeling

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

Financial Advice

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

Functional Medicine & Nutrition

Dr. Brandy Zachary, DC, IFMCP discovered the power of Functional Medicine first hand when a “mystery illness” left her declared permanently disabled. Unwilling to accept that diagnosis, she fought back and launched Body Love Cafe, an award-winning holistic health clinic. BLC is all about natural medicine that meets cutting-edge science to provide answers as to why you don’t feel well. We hear you. We see you. We believe you. It’s not in your head and we’ve got the technique and labs to show why. Patients have said “Dr. Zachary figures out why you feel like crap but your MD says you’re fine.”

Hardscape Restoration

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

HVAC & IAQ

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

Insurance Services

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

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 Clinic Dr. Brandy Zachary, DC, IFMCP (925)888-8101 Team@BodyLoveCafe.com www.BodyLoveCafe.com Concrete Paver Restorations Drew Bogetti 408-828-6903 www.cprpaver.com drew@cprpaver.com Evergreen IAQ JC Garcia 925-444-5069 jc@evergreenIAQ.com https://evergreeniaq.com

Crusberg-Decker Insurance Services, Inc. Scott Decker and Patrick Decker (925) 239-0004 Scott@cdinsurance.com Patrick@cdinsurance.com http://www.cdinsurance-walnutcreek.com/ 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.

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 3

Resident Feature

became Berean Christian High School, no one knows what happened to that time capsule. She then went on to Foothill Intermediate School where she remembers the early 70’s rule dictating that girls could not wear pants! Protests eventually led to a change in that rule. Don, meanwhile, was born in Rhode Island and spent his early childhood in Michigan and Connecticut. He moved to Concord in the early 70’s. Don was an accomplished diver, attending UC Berkeley after high school and diving for the two-time NCAA championship swim team. Diana attended UC Davis for two years then joined Don at Berkeley. After graduating they decided to try out the East Coast for graduate school. Don earned his Ph.D. at Harvard in Economics, and Diana received her Master’s degree in Architecture at MIT. The were married during this period, but instead of returning to the Bay Area after graduate school as they had planned, life took them on an adventure working and living all over the world while raising their two children.

Don and Diana with daughter Becky, son-in-law Alan and grandkids in Carmel

Meet Diana and Don: Returning to their roots By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991 Photo Credit: Courtesy of Diana Daymond

iana Daymond and Don Hanna met in high school. Diana was a member of Northgate’s first graduating class in 1976, while Don graduated from Ygnacio Valley. Don was a diver, and Diana was swimmer. Back then Northgate did not have a pool, so the swim team practiced at Heather Farms and were always the visiting team for swim meets. Diana was undefeated in the butterfly and after graduation competed in the Olympic Trials. Her swimming career began at the age of six, swimming for Rancho San Miguel. Diana grew up in an Eichler home in the Rancho San Miguel area. She remembers playing in the almond orchard (where Sports Basement is now) and sitting on a “man killing” bull in what is now Heather Farm Park. While at Rancho San Miguel Elementary School she became student body president as a 6th grader and instituted a cupcake sale every week to raise funds for a time capsule. Once the school closed and

Don’s career in international macro-economics for the World Bank and investment banks took them to Chile, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia. They loved traveling and exploring new cultures. Diana was working as an architect designing homes, offices and stores as well as furniture and clothing. While living in Jakarta and Hong Kong, Diana coached the swim teams. When the kids were young Diana received the advice that the expat life is best when grounded with a home base back in the USA. They decided to make Northgate that home base, spending their summers here to visit family and continue the family tradition of swimming at Rancho San Miguel, which Becky and Colin both did for many years. In 2003, Diana and Don bought an Eichler near the Boundary Oaks Golf Course. They decided to return permanently in 2020 when Don was offered a professional faculty position at UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business. Diana continued to focus on her longtime passion and career: helping teens navigate the college admission process. She used her knowledge gained at MIT to counsel international students and swimmers find their way to Ivy League schools in the US. Last year Diana completed the UC Berkeley’s College Counseling Certificate program and began helping local teens with college admissions and athletes with the recruiting process (DianaDaymondCollegeAdmissionAdvising. com). Last year she volunteered at Northgate to help the college counselor guide seniors and get re-connected with this community she loves so much. Don has joined the Men’s Golf Club at Boundary Oak, and both Diana and Don swim with the Walnut Creek Master’s Swim Team. Diana also enjoys Zoom Book Club meetings with a group she started in Indonesia, but she would also love to join a local book group. You can reach her at dianadaymond@gmail.com. Their daughter, Becky, is an epidemiologist living in New York with her husband and three children. During the pandemic she visited her parents here in Northgate for several months at a time, where they all enjoyed Arbolado Park, flying kites, and riding bikes along the canal trail. Diana says, “She cherished that her children could enjoy the Northgate lifestyle as she had done as a child during their summers in Walnut Creek.” Their son, Colin, is a partner in a London-based venture capital firm. He lives in Vienna, Austria with his wife and two boys. When Colin got married in 2018 his four best men were long-time friends who met when they were six and swam together all through their childhoods. Their years spent in Asia provided opportunities for Diana and Don to visit virtually every country, but their favorite memories include family hikes in the Himalayas, fall walks in the Japanese countryside, bike rides in rural China and Vietnam, beaches and volcanoes in Indonesia and a family reunion in Burma. But their ultimate family vacation is close to home: a week in Carmel in a home Diana’s family has been renting each summer since 1967. This past May, four generations of Diana’s family gathered in Carmel for a memorial for her mother, 50 year Northgate resident Daisy Daymond..

JULY 2022

Becky, Colin, Diana and Don at Colin’s college graduation

Diana diving into Rancho San Miguel pool in 1963

After nearly 40 years of traveling the world, Diana and Don are eager to reconnect with this neighborhood they hold so close to their hearts. Welcome back Diana and Don!

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

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 5

Pet Corner

Koda

ARF Adoption Stars By Christa Noriega, ARF Adoption Manager

Lantern

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-and-a-half-year-old Koda is a dog you might find in the dictionary definition for ‘zen’. This young boy knows how to just kick back and enjoy life, and truly loves being with his people. He’ll take all the love and cuddles he can get, and wouldn’t mind if you let him crawl into your lap. While he’s ready for play and adventure, too, at the end of the day Koda is a polite, mellow boy who wants to kick his feet up and bask in your presence. Koda has an auto-immune disease called immune mediated thrombocytopenia. ARF will provide the first 6 months of medication and recheck bloodwork while tapering off medications at no cost. Koda has a positive history with other dogs and 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 (<6months), $125 for a special- needs dog, $175 for a special-needs puppy (<6months), and $125 for a senior dog (7+ years). AIRPORT TRANSFERS CITY TOURS

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Ten-month-old Lantern is a sweet and gentle fellow, who’s putting his best paw forward! He may be shy at first, but once he comes out of his shell, you’ll discover that he has lots of love to share. You may even win his heart with a tasty treat! Lantern has a positive history with other cats and would love to go home with his brother, Tiger. ARF Adoption fees: $100 for an adult cat, $150 for a kitten (<6months), $150 for two adult cats, $250 for two kittens, $50 for a special-needs cat, $75 for a special-needs kitten (<6months), and $50 for a senior cat (7+ years).

POINT TO POINT TRANSPORTATION HOURLY CHAUFFER SERVICES

FLEET: SUV | SEDAN LIMOUSINE | BUS

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JULY 2022

Real Estate

Real Estate is proudly sponsored by The Rita Dhillon Team

Real Estate Listings in Northgate Active Listings Address

List Price

480 Arbol Via $3,999,999 777 N Gate Rd $3,500,000 465 Arbol Via $3,250,000

Pending Listings Address

List Price

3745 Waterford Ln $2,800,000 252 Clyde Dr $2,500,000 1101 Sebastian Ln $1,989,000 1054 Springfield Dr $1,899,900 360 Pickering Pl $1,798,000

SQFT

7 5 4

6.5 4.5 4

6,726 5,260 4,000

SQFT

4 5 3 5 5

3.5 3 2.5 3 3

5,116 2,499 2,851 2,659 2,328

Sold Listings Address

Sold Price

SQFT

31 Tierra Verde Ct 90 Orchard Estates Dr 4025 Arbolado Dr 610 Cedar Glen Ct 3115 Ebano Dr 3150 Naranja Dr 268 Firestone Dr

$4,000,000 $3,300,000 $3,188,000 $2,400,000 $2,150,000 $2,100,000 $2,000,000

4 5 4 5 4 4 5

3.5 4 3.5 3.5 2.5 3 2.5

4,795 3,500 3,612 3,403 2,441 2,445 2,446

6/13/2022

DOM 11 54 28

DOM 3 28 29 5 21

DOM 3 3 8 7 4 2 1

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

Rita Dhillon Team

#1 Northgate & Walnut Creek Realtor * TOTAL SALES VOLU ME F ROM 20 01-2021

Rita Dhillon

925.570.1010 rita.dhillon@compass.com DRE 01109990

Tim Dhillon

925.570.0418 tim.dhillon@compass.com DRE 01521381

Khush Kermanizadeh 925.577.3422 khush@compass.com DRE 01480990

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

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 7

July

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Throughout July Cultural Currency

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

Every Thursday Story Time

@Ruth Bancroft Garden Each Thursday, we will host a story time reading in our new Children’s Nook in the Garden. Cost: Free with garden admission ($10 adults, children under 12 free) Time: 9:30-10am

Sat., July 16 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

Thurs., July 21 Remodeling Seminar

@online or in person (3021 Citrus Circle #170, Walnut Creek) Do you dream of transforming your space? We can help turn your dream into a reality. Join our home remodeling seminar and allow our expert team to guide you through the basic steps of a home remodel, answer all of your questions, and more. Let us help you dream a little. After all, dreaming is the first step to creating something new. The event shall be available virtually or with limited in-person attendance with social distancing and following health and safety protocols. RSVP: https:// gordonreese.com/home-remodelingseminar/ or by phone (925) 885-3770. Cost: Complimentary Time: 6pm

information and to see pictures of their incredible layout with its mountain scenery and the meticulous attention to detail. Cost: Adults $5.00, Children (6-12) $3.00, Senior (60+) $3.00. Kids 5 yrs and younger are admitted FREE. Time: 8-10pm

Save the date: Wed., Aug. 3

First Wednesday Street Faire

@Downtown Walnut Creek - Cypress St. between N. Main and Locust Enjoy a fun street festival full of live music, dancing, tasty bites, wine and beer, Kids Fun Zone, interactive games and other surprises. Cost: Free Time: 5-8:30pm www.walnutcreekdowntown.com

Fri., July 29 Model Railroad Show

@Larkey Park Please join the Walnut Creek Model Railroad Society (WCMRS) for their train show and open house. Come and see the largest HO scale layout on permanent display in the Bay Area. They have one of the largest layouts in the United States. They have over 4,300 feet of track covering an area of 2,500 square feet, climbing to an elevation of 4 feet. The WCMRS is located in Larkey Park opposite the newly renovated Larkey Pool and within a short walk of the Lindsay Wildlife Experience. www.wcmrs.org for more

JULY 2022

Arts & Culture

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

he City of Walnut Creek and twelve of its community organizations are collaborating to present Arts Around August, a month-long program in downtown Walnut Creek to celebrate the performing, visual and culinary arts. Walnut Creek, a city rich in its arts offerings, is proud to bring this celebration, in its 2nd year, to downtown and to partner with many of the city’s business, non-profit and arts organizations. There will be events or activities throughout the month of August.

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

•

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

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

For Adults: •

• •

Moveable Feast (an upscale culinary stroll including tastes from the best of Walnut Creek’s restaurants, with a little sample of public art sprinkled in) Opera After Dark Independent film showing by Mountain Shadow Film Society

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For families: •

•

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

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

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Local Sports

Batter Up!

A Replay of Baseball’s History By Ericka Jones

istorians tend to disagree about the origins of baseball. Some attribute the sport to a game played by the ancient Egyptians, others credit European sports like rounders or cricket. Still others reference a Jane Austen novel. Regardless of its original foundation, the modern sport of baseball has been considered “America’s pastime” since the 18th century.

“inventor of baseball,” he wrote the official rules of the game in 1845. These rules laid out the shape of the field as a diamond, allowed nine players on the field and structured nine innings with three outs per team. He also helped found one of the first official baseball teams in the United States: the Knickerbockers.

Decades before the Civil War, the colonists were playing a game they dubbed “baseball.” Legend has it that, in the early 1900s, Al Spalding credited Abner Doubleday, an officer in the army, with inventing the sport in Cooperstown in 1839. While widely spread and believed for generations, this so-called myth has never been proven true or false. Doubleday himself never tried to prove his involvement.

Interest grew swiftly in the years that followed. In 1876, the National League of Baseball Clubs, more commonly known as the National League, was founded, becoming the first professional league of any capacity in the United States. The establishment of the American League followed in 1901. This led to the establishment of the World Series in 1903, where the team with the best record in the National League played the team with the best record in the American League. This general concept still exists today, but the addition of the postseason has added a few extra steps for World Series contenders.

Historical documents begin cohesively aligning when referring to Alexander Cartwright. Often credited as the

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more local sports articles just like this on BVMSports.com

JULY 2022

Since its establishment as a professional sport in the United States, baseball has seen the rise of incredible players like Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb and Lou Gehrig. It has been used as a vehicle to address social injustices like racism and power. Jackie Robinson’s historic integration from the Negro League to the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947 opened the door for future players like Hank Aaron, Willie Mays and Satchel Paige, all of whom have been inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. The love of baseball has expanded beyond the borders of the United States. Japan, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Panama and Venezuela are just a few of the countries that boast high interest in the sport. Colloquial phrases like “out in left field” and getting “thrown a curveball” have made their way into commonplace conversations. America’s love for their “official pastime” has survived the ages. The teams have changed names, rosters and locations, but the love of the game is not going anywhere. Play ball! Sources www.wbsc.org/baseball/history-of-baseball www.history.com/news/who-invented-baseball www.baseballhall.org/hall-of-famers www.britannica.com/sports/baseball

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Expert Contributor

Get in the Game:

Sports at a Smaller School By Matt Terwilliger, Parent of two daughters at Contra Costa Christian Schools

t was awesome to have students not only back in school, but playing sports again. The sounds of the games, fans cheering on their teams and students socially connecting with their teammates brought such joy. At Contra Costa Christian Schools (CCCS), our resilient students bounced back in a strong way this year, with every middle school sports team making league playoffs and several high school teams participating in league playoffs as well as North Coast Sectional (NCS) playoffs. CCCS believes in a comprehensive student-athlete experience, including life skills development, to prepare them for college and their professional careers. Students have the opportunity to compete in three or four in the same year. They are coached by highly qualified coaches (club and former collegiate athletes) that get the most out of every student, supporting them with encouragement and prayer. Additionally, students are encouraged to participate in other school programs, such as drama, music, clubs, student government and more. They do all of this while participating in an academically challenging college prep program.

While competing at a high level is the expectation at CCCS, the coaches also expect our students to gain life skills through sports that will prepare them for college and beyond. It’s well documented that a high percentage of CEOs and those in leadership positions were student-athletes. These leaders attribute much of their success to life skills gained through playing sports, such as: 1. Time Management: Balancing studying in between multiple practices and games per week requires prioritizing and managing time effectively. 2. Teamwork: Learn to work with and encourage teammates with varying skill levels to achieve a common goal. 3. Competing: Desire to improve individually and as a team. Life is competitive.

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4. Leadership: Develop leadership skills in roles such as team captain, being a supportive teammate and role model. 5. Accountability: Teammates rely on one another to show up, work hard and contribute. 6. Social: Learn to work with and communicate with students from different backgrounds and develop many lifelong friends. 7. Integrity: Strive to improve and win, but always do it the right way. If you are looking for a place your student can gain critical life skills and build a robust college admissions resume, I encourage you to reach out to CCCS. This school and its coaches have been a blessing to our family.

JULY 2022

Charity Spotlight

Is there room in your heart for a Diabetic Alert Dog-in-Training? By Victoria Briskin, Development Director, Early Alert Canines Photography by Brady Thomas Photography

or more than a decade, Early Alert Canines (EAC) has advanced its mission to improve the health, safety, and well-being of people with insulin-dependent diabetes through partnerships with certified low blood sugar alert dogs. EAC was founded as a response to a growing need for Diabetic Alert Dogs and a particularly unmet need for families with young diabetic children. EAC believes that Service Dogs should be housed in a warm, loving environment, which means each of their dogs goes to a foster home every night. EAC provides training and supplies for fosters and offers short-term, long-term, and transitional home options. They work with each foster to find a schedule that suits their availability. “EAC has been a great organization to volunteer with. The staff has just been so kind and fun and we love the dogs. We love supporting EAC and it’s been fantastic. For anyone considering fostering for EAC, I would say it is a wonderful opportunity. It is a win-win situation for all. It is such a wonderful program and the work the dogs do literally saves their person’s life. The dog has a very big, important purpose, and you become part of that,” shares a long-time foster. In addition to fostering, lending your professional expertise is a great way to support EAC. They are in search of volunteers to help with fundraising, marketing, and events. Brady Thomas is an international award-winning photographer whose landmark studio is located in Benicia, CA. She recently volunteered her time to capture the unique story of an 11-year-old and her Diabetic Alert Dog. “Clients often come to me to help them celebrate and document a milestone: A special birthday, anniversary, graduation, adoption, engagement, pregnancy, retirement, accomplishment, or the simple beauty of a relationship. I was inspired to assist EAC to tell the story of the very special partnership between a child and her Diabetic Alert Dog. This organization is doing deeply important work for clients who live with insulin-dependent diabetes, and before I met them, I had no idea that

Diabetic Alert Dogs even Grace and EAC existed! The dogs are Ophelia are partners matched with clients with superpowers as very carefully and as I they manage Grace’s Type 1 diabetes. understand it, as soon as this duo was paired they bonded immediately, and ever since, the dog has been saving this young girl’s life every single day,” shares Brady. EAC relies on donations and sponsorship to fund its programs, believing that any client who needs their service should have access without significant barriers. Their annual Summer Virtual Walk will be held the weekend of June 3-5, 2022, and people are invited to participate and walk from anywhere in the community! More information can be found on their website: www.EarlyAlertCanines.org. Or visit them on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Twitter. To learn more about Brady Thomas Photography, visit www.bradythomasphotography. com.

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The Youth Leadership Commission is accepting applicants By Prapti Pradhan, Resident since 2005

he Youth Leadership Commission is a peer-selected group of 15 civically engaged youth within the City of Walnut Creek. The youth commission’s main goal is to get students more involved and engaged with local government through various projects and outreach campaigns. The Youth Commission usually takes upon three projects each term, and creates subcommittees to successfully execute each respective task. The Community Events subcommittee has been spearheading the recruitment process for a new Youth Chief’s Advisory Board member, as the current member is heading off to college. The subcommittee named “Street Stories’’ has been working diligently to ensure that the history of the streets in Walnut Creek is preserved by conducting research on Rudgear Road, Broadway, North Main Street and more; all the streets that make this city so special. They hope to display their historical findings in the form of signs throughout Walnut Creek. Lastly, the Policy subcommittee’s

proposal to add one youth member to three of Walnut Creek’s City commissions (Arts, Parks Recreation and Open Spaces, and Transportation) will be presented to City Council on June 21st. A policy that calls for more youth representation adds diversity of opinion to local government and is essential to building a city that represents residents of a wider range. The Youth Commission is thrilled to announce that it is accepting applications for its new term! This opportunity is open to high school students (grades 9-12) that currently reside in Walnut Creek. Students who are interested must fill out an application and will be interviewed by current Youth Leadership Commissioners and City Staff. If selected, commissioners may serve a two year term. Applications opened up on May 23, 2022 and the deadline to apply is August 19, 2022 by 5 PM. Those looking to become more civically engaged are highly encouraged to apply!

JULY 2022

Just in time for summer barbeques - A mayo-free Potato Salad By Lisa Assoni, Short Cut Cook, Resident since 2012

otatoes are a refreshing dish especially on hot-dicey days. Simmer, boil or steam. These tubers are high on the list for making a simple salad. Yum.... Yield: 4 servings • • • • • • • • •

2 cups cooked red potatoes, cubed 1 cup peeled and chopped cucumber 1 cup chopped tomato, drained 1 cup chopped Italian parsley 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/4 cup olive oil 1/4 cup red wine vinegar 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon sugar

In a medium bowl, add all the ingredients, and mix. Chill until cold, and serve this refreshing summer salad.

Time for a new twist on how important a potato is to our diet.

DID YOU KNOW that the potato famine hit Ireland in the mid 1800’s? Over 1 million people died, and another million left the country. The potato meant life to the irish, and when the blight hit, it killed most of the crop and people. That affected everyone who toiled in the field, workers, women and children, who needed the potato to sustain their lives. The potato is filled with potassium and loaded with carbs. Once removed, it meant death in some cases. So enjoy the wonderful varieties of potatoes, and remember, we are blessed to have a potato (just watch the carbohydrates).

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Expert Contributor

How Much are Sunroom Additions? We Can Help With That By Gordon Reese, Gordon Reese Design Build, Resident since 2008

great way to extend the use of your outdoor space is by adding a sunroom to your home. But how much are sunroom additions? Here are some valuable tips that can help you better understand what you should expect to pay for a sunroom.

How Much are Sunroom Additions?

Below are some factors that can affect the price of a sunroom addition.

Extension or new build

When estimating the price for a sunroom addition, are you planning on adding an extension or an entirely new building? Also, the more complicated your sunroom will be, the higher the cost. For example, if you will have a bathroom in this addition, that will dramatically increase the price. A simple sunroom addition may cost between $30,000-150,000.

Square footage

The first thing to consider is square footage. A sunroom that covers about 300 square feet may cost between $60,000-200,000. The larger the room is, the more expensive it will be.

Customizations

For example, if you plan to use your sunroom as a library and want to include built-in shelves. Or perhaps you are planning to use it as a garden and would like to build in a humidifier and have it double as a greenhouse.

Material

The cost of a sunroom will depend on the type of materials used. Vinyl sunrooms would be cheaper than ones made from wood or stone materials. Building an addition to your home will always differ in cost depending on what type of house you live in.

We Can Help

The right contractor can help you further estimate and plan your budget for a sunroom addition. Gordon Reese has been helping clients with their custom design builds since 1985. Please contact us today with further questions.

JULY 2022

Arts & Culture

Walnut Creek Downtown Stages kicks off 2nd season By Donna Labriola, Walnut Creek Downtown

alnut Creek Downtown (WCD) is happy to bring back Downtown Stages from May through October 31, 2022. The program consists of three outdoor locations (stages) dispersed throughout the downtown whereby local musicians, dancers, poets, artists, and other forms of artists may showcase their talent in the heart of Walnut Creek. If you’d like to learn more information about the Downtown Stages program or you’re interested in performing at one of the three Downtown Stages, registration can be done at www.walnutcreekdowntown.com. This is an opportunity for artists to showcase their talent in a free space; performers may collect tips. Additionally, WCD will promote the Downtown Stages and performers on its social media platformsboth Facebook and Instagram-as well as weekly e-blasts. WCD will be scheduling special activations throughout the Downtown Stages season. We encourage local artists to register to perform or contact our office so that we can support and promote their efforts.

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Building resiliency through health By Dr. Jen Dufala, DC with Body Love Clinic Something to consider... “If garbage is allowed to accumulate, it soon results in the appearance of rats, insects, and other vermin. Vermin, however, do not cause the garbage,rather the garbage causes the vermin. The vermin then take hold and multiply.” - Paul A. Goldberg, BA, BS, MPH, DC, DACBN, DCBCN

Submitted by Lindsay Bradburn, Resident since 2021

hese photos were captured on early morning runs with my running buddies in the winter mornings. It’s spectacular up there (in Shell Ridge Open Space).

How does this apply to our health? Creating undesirable health conditions leads to environments in our bodies that either: cultivates and contributes to disease, or aids us against it. The key to building resiliency through health is to pay attention to the conditions we are cultivating. Take getting sick for example. If we catch a bug, oftentimes it’s because we were not paying attention to our lifestyle, hygiene, sleep, nutrition, relationships, movement, and/or purpose. Certain diseases thrive in certain environments, right? Wouldn’t it be safe to assume that if we worked and created undesirable places for these diseases to live, that they may not live there at all? A compromised host is a target for disease, so what are ways we can build health and resilience through our daily lives? 1. Find your version of stress management. Enjoy others - cultivate a community that brings you joy and happiness. 2. Incorporate movement daily. Walk, run, hike, swim or try a new class you have never been to. Trying new things produces dopamine and dopamine makes you happy! 3. Get Outside - Enjoy nature! Fresh and air sunshine do wonders for our mental wellbeing. 4. Feed your mind, body and soul. Try your best to make good nutritional choices most of the time, but let yourself enjoy the things you love still occasionally and in moderation. 5. Get a good night’s sleep. We can’t feel our best if we don’t sleep. Think of it as recharging your batteries! By checking in with yourself and creating new habits, you can start to cultivate your own health resiliency, which puts yourself in a better place to take challenges head on. You’ve got this. Free 15-minute consults with Body Love Clinic. Visit our website: www.bodylovecafe.com

JULY 2022

Business Spotlight

Sustainably Sourced Caviar By Marai Bolourchi, Vice President of Tsar Nicoulai Caviar

estled in a corner of Wilton, California is the Tsar Nicoulai Caviar Sturgeon Farm. Since its beginning in 1984, Tsar Nicoulai has been at the forefront of sustainable and environmental stewardship. An East Bay family became the owners of Tsar Nicoulai Caviar in 2014. The Bolourchis have remained committed to maintaining Tsar Nicoulai’s dedication to sustainable farming - constantly finding new ways to reduce waste, better the earth, keep their sturgeon happy, and provide the cleanest and healthiest American farmed caviar on the market. Tsar Nicoulai Caviar’s sturgeon farm is the 2nd largest sustainable sturgeon farm in the nation and the only one that is Eco-certified. They have a hatchery on property allowing them to oversee the entire process of caviar production – from spawning to harvesting. At their on-site smokehouse, sturgeon meat is smoked with spice combinations created by their farm staff. They also package and ship their products themselves. Because of their involvement in the making of their caviar, they can be completely transparent with their customers. In fact, they love sharing their passion so much, they often invite restaurant and retail clients to the farm to take a look around. They also offer exclusive caviar dinner and tours where guests get a sneak peak at the production process, enjoy a caviar themed dinner and take home goodie bags. Recently, the Bolourchi family brought Tsar Nicoulai Caviar Café back to the San Francisco Ferry Building. At the café, guests can enjoy inspired farm-to-table dishes featuring the many caviars and roes that Tsar Nicoulai offers. The Café is open Monday and Tuesday 11a-5p, Wednesday – Friday 11a-6p, Saturday 10a – 6p, and Sunday 11a – 5p. Tsar Nicoulai Caviar can be found in some local Bay Area grocery stores, as well as purchased online with properly insulated shipping. Visit the website to order, find recipes and learn more about Tsar Nicoulai Caviar, www.tsarnicoulai.com.

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