Northgate Living CA June 2020

Mailed Directly to Northgate Residents and Published Online

JUNE 2020

Northgate LIVING CA

M E E T T HE

Deckers: Good Food, Good Family, Good Fun COVER PHOTO:

by Julie Cheshire Photography

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JUNE 2020

Northgate LIVING CA

Publication Team Publisher: Jo Peek

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

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. © 2020 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

Hi neighbors!

I’ve had a few similar questions asked recently by our neighbors so I thought that I would take the time to share the answers with the community.

As the founding publisher of Northgate Living CA, I personally meet with every single owner of each business to approve them as a sponsor, right now we meet virtually. The sponsors in our magazine are selected in the area of reputation, customer service and expertise in the category of business. Not every business is able to be guaranteed in our magazine just because they are in business!! I hope that you find Northgate Living CA as a protection filter for you, the consumer.

Furthermore, these sponsors make our community magazine possible - there are no paid subscriptions, it is delivered free to you each month! While you are free to deal with any business, inside or outside of this magazine, these businesses made a decision to be a part of our community. They want your patronage.

Without our sponsors’ generosity, our community magazine would not exist, so give them a chance and let them earn your business!

Thanks,

Jo Peek Founding Publisher of Northgate Living

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 3

1401 N. BROADWAY SUITE 120 WALNUT CREEK • 925-322-8266 4

2018 THE

WHERE YOU ARE THE TREND

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BEST of

WALNUT CREEK

JUNE 2020

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.

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.

Landscaping

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

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.

Pool Maintenance & Remodel

Family owned and operated for 30+ years, proudly serving Contra Costa and Solano counties. 42 years pool industry experience including former red cross water safety instructor. Former local lifeguard and swim coach. Former collegiate all american swimmer. California licensed contractor C-61 D-35, C53. CPO (certified pool operator) certified. National board of directors for the independent pool and spa service association. Warranty stations for all major swimming pool manufacturers. Water chemistry certified. Call us today for an energy and gas audit for pool equipment.

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.

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

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

Vic Cvijanovic Pacific Landscaping 925-938-1777 vic@pacificscapes.com www.pacificscapes.com Dr. Vivian Ting Veritas Plastic Surgery (925) 949-8587 www.viviantingmd.com Brian Duncan Picture Perfect Pool Service inc 925-370-6675 www.pppsinc.com Rita Dhillon Compass Real Estate (925) 570-1010 Rita.Dhillon@compass.com www.RitaDhillonTeam.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

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 5

Resident Feature

M E E T T HE

Deckers: Good Food, Good Family, Good Fun

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

N

ew Northgate residents Josie and Jonathan Decker met while working in the food and beverage industry in Michigan. It was there that Josie, a college student at Michigan State University and part-time server at a local country club met Jon, who was the club’s Sous Chef. Jon had already graduated from nearby Northern Michigan University with a Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management. They fell in love over delicious meals and hard work. Even though they have both moved on to different careers, it was there at the country club where Josie witnessed Jon’s amazing work ethic and what eventually led the couple to the foodcentric Bay Area.

After Josie graduated from Michigan with her BFA in graphic design, they moved to Hilton Head, SC to be closer to Josie’s family. They married in 2008 on the beach. In 2010 they moved for a while to Chicago to be near Jon’s family. This is also when Jon made the big career change to accounting. He now serves as Accounting Manager for a private family investment and philanthropy fund in San Francisco’s Presidio, a position that ultimately led the Deckers to the Bay Area in 2014.

Not knowing anything about California, let alone San Francisco, they researched and settled on the centrallylocated Mission District. Craving suburban life and warmer summers after their daughter, Dylan, was born, they found Walnut Creek with a Google Maps search in 2016. They found the Northgate neighborhood and had their eyes on it for a long time because of the mid-west vibe with big backyards and lots of trails. They were finally able to buy their forever home in Dec. 2019. Josie says, “Once we got serious about looking, we toured our current home a couple times before it suddenly clicked that “it’s THE ONE.” The stars aligned and we closed in early December, officially moving in just before the

holidays so that we could enjoy our first Christmas in our new home. Moving in the midst of winter can make it a challenge to get a flair for the neighborhood and get acquainted with your surroundings, and toss in a pandemic and a shelterin-place order and you cozy up to your new home real quick. We still enjoy getting outdoors and are enjoying warmer weather. Our neighbors have been SO welcoming, which is exactly what we hoped for. We are staying safe and sound, but look forward to the SIP lifting so we can mingle and start building bonds and share Jon’s awesome chef skills with our neighbors!”

Josie spent her early career as a Graphic Designer and Art Director for various publishers/magazines. She now balances motherhood and freelance design work with her boutique graphic design studio, Spade & Anchor Creative.

She specializes in logos, brand identity and web design for women-led small businesses in the Bay Area and beyond. “I realized that moms in business have a tenacity and passion that’s often only tapped into after journeying into motherhood. Many moms launch a new business in order to pursue ‘their happy’ while still being readily available to their kiddos. But often, they have a tough time visually portraying their business in a way that’s authentic, yet appealing… and that’s where Spade & Anchor Creative steps in,” says Josie.

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JUNE 2020

Shady, their 13-year-old brown lab mutt, was a stray found in a trailer park in Shady Glen, SC (hence the name “Shady,” given to her by the Humane Society who found her). Shady is an accomplished escape artist, but luckily her tags always help fellow neighbors guide her way back home.

Jon, having grown up in a suburb of Chicago, Evergreen Park, is a forever White Sox and Chicago Bears fan. He also plays basketball with a group of area dads called the “Dad Bods.” The Deckers are outdoors enthusiasts and love hiking, camping and biking in our beautiful East Bay trails and soaking up the sun at Lake Berryessa.

Dylan, who is now 5, loves swimming and biking. She has recently discovered a love of art as well and “can sing the entire Frozen II soundtrack at the drop of a hat.”

Jon’s experience as a chef often has him cooking up feasts large enough to feed the neighborhood, something they hope to be able to do more of soon!

“We’re excited to become a part of the community in our new home! We’ve been waiting a very long time to put down roots and have been really deliberate about our location and timing, so we’re thrilled to get to know everyone on our street better – once it’s safe to do so – of course. And a big shout out to all the amazing neighbors who came by to welcome us, gift us cookies and well wishes, and we can’t wait to return the gesture,” says Jon.

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

Show us your best shot

Submitted by Kun Yan, Resident since 2017 Nature brings serenity to Northgate neighborhood

Submitted by Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991 Stay Safe Everyone!

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Submitted by Kassie Wenzell, Resident since 1995 The beacon atop Mt. Diablo is lit every Sunday evening during the pandemic to honor essential workers.

JUNE 2020

Active Listings Address List Price 3613 Shukla Ct 100 Genoa Ct 563 Walnut Ave 1033 Woodstock Ct 3685 Vista Charonoaks 3326 Doral Ct 955 Natchez Dr

$1,700,000 $1,695,000 $1,450,000 $1,395,000 $1,390,000 $1,389,000 $1,379,000

Pending Listings Address List Price 640 Quail Crest Dr 1555 Sorrel Ct 550 Dover Dr 145 Brandywine Way 924 Chantilly Ct 513 Monmouth Ct 1050 Springfield Dr

4 5 5 4 5 5 5

BD

$1,750,000 $1,699,000 $1,375,000 $1,298,000 $1,250,000 $1,245,000 $1,180,000

Sold Listings Address List Price 29 Diablo Ridge Ln 746 Snyder Ln 720 Quail Crest Dr 25 Las Lomas Pl

BD

4 4 4 4 3 4 4

BD

$3,125,000 $2,300,000 $1,850,000 $1,200,000

4 5 4 3

BT

SQFT

2.5 3 3 3 3 3.5 2.5

3,171 3,171 3,298 2,311 3,502 3,036 2,510

BT

SQFT

3 3.5 2 2.5 2 2.5 3

3,415 3,453 2,710 2,214 1,825 2,661 1,920

BT

SQFT

5 5 3.5 3

5,000 4,734 3,703 2,434

DOM 51 46 38 3 62 6 2

Real Estate Listings in Northgate 5/18/2020

DOM 7 12 4 21 4 8 2

DOM

Sold Price

1 33 29 3

$3,050,000 $2,050,000 $1,800,000 $1,325,000

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.

The Rita Dhillon Team

#1 Northgate Realtor *Total Sales Volume in 2019

Active 563 Walnut Avenue, Walnut Creek $1,450,000 Pending 640 Quail Crest Drive, Walnut Creek $1,750,000 145 Brandywine Way, Walnut Creek. $1,298,000 Just Sold 720 Quail Crest Drive, Walnut Creek $1,800,000 29 Diablo Ridge Lane, Walnut Creek. $3,050,000 Rita Dhillon 925.570.1010 Rita.Dhillon@compass.com DRE 01109990 www.RitaDhillonTeam.com Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 9

June

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Sat., June 13

Thurs., June 27

30-Day Sleep Bootcamp

Virtual Remodeling Seminar

@Facebook and Zoom Body Love Cafe is running a free 30-Day Sleep Bootcamp to help you get better rest at night and we will do it along with you. During this time we will cover the basics of what good sleep hygiene is and encourage you to do the things you need to do so that you can get a good night’s rest. We will share engaging videos and activities that you can do along with Dr. Zachary. Sign up on the website.

Cost: Free www.bodylovecafe.com

Sat., June 13

Walnut Creek Downtown History Tour @Fountain at Liberty Bell Plaza (corner of Broadway and Mt. Diablo) This easy, 90-minute guided walking tour on city sidewalks brings to life the early times of Walnut Creek revealing surprises about places we walk over, under, or by without realizing the stories they have to tell about our history. Subject to cancellation due to COVID-19 Shelter in place restrictions. Repeated July 11.

Cost: FREE Time: 9:30 am www.wchistory.com or 925-935-7871

@The comfort of your own home Are you a neighbor, a family member, or a friend looking to remodel, and just don’t know where or how to get started? Do you have questions like: • How do I get started? •How do I make sure that the construction costs don’t exceed my budget?

• How do I make design decisions I won’t regret later? • How do I choose the right contractor? • How do I avoid an ugly court battle? • What is a mechanic’s lien and how do I protect myself? • How do I make sure my remodel gets completed on schedule?

Join us and get your questions answered.

RSVP required at gordonreese.com.

Cost: Free Time: 10am- 12pm GORDONREESE.COM or call (925) 885-3770 today!

Every Tuesday and 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-5pm www.castlerockfarmstand.com

Every Tuesday and Thursday

On-line story time @home via Contra Costa Library See our favorite storytellers create impromptu story times every Tuesday and Thursday Time: 10am ccclib.org 10

Save the Date…

Sat., July 4 Fourth of July Concert @ Civic Park Gazebo Enjoy a selection of patriotic music performed by the Walnut Creek Concert Band! Bring a blanket and a picnic, relax on the grass at Civic Park, and celebrate our nation’s birthday in musical style.

Cost: Free Time: 6-7pm www.walnut-creek.org Sat., Aug. 8 – Sun., Aug. 9 Art & Wine Festival @ Heather Farm Park Walnut Creek Chamber Art & Wine Festival returns for its 39th year.

Recognized by the Contra Costa Times as the East Bay’s Best Outdoor Festival and winner of Walnut Creek Magazine’s 2016 & 2017 Best Community Event, Art & Wine 2020 will continue to feature top-quality, non-stop local and Bay Area music and entertainment for the entire family, distinctive hand-made crafts and works of art from more than 200 artisans, award-winning local and regional wines and microbrews, ethnic and traditional festival food, the Premium Wine Tent, the delightful Festival Train (a long-time family favorite), and the Kids Zone.

Time: Sat. 11am-7pm, Sun. 11am – 6pm Cost: Admission is free www.walnut-creek.com/ events/2020-art-wine-festival

JUNE 2020

Expert Contributor

30-Day SLEEP BOOTCAMP

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

“I

nsomnia is a glamorous term for thoughts you forgot to have in the day.” — Alain de Botton

Sleep is easy for some, elusive for others and until recently, a mystery to science.

We knew that sleep was essential and that it was a form of torture to go without, but we didn’t know why.

There is still more to learn but we now know that our time spent sleeping is a time of great repair for our body, particularly our brain and our glymphatic system (waste clearance in the brain & CNS).

The correct amount of restorative sleep has many physiological benefits including promoting good mental health, a healthy weight, & supporting immune health!

Not everyone needs the same amount of sleep, but a general consensus is around 7-9 hours each night. Those getting less than 6 hours or needing more than 10 hours should get evaluated for potential medical issues contributing to their hypo/hypersomnia.

The timing of sleep also matters and is part of each individual’s “circadian rhythm” which is your 24-hour daily wake/sleep cycle.

There is no exact right answer but sleeping from 10 pm - 6 am is an excellent goal to shoot for, or even 11 pm - 7 am.

Body Love Cafe is running a free 30-Day Sleep Bootcamp from June 13-July 12 and all are welcome!

We will give you a “Sleep Contract” which will allow you to decide what you want to accomplish during the month and then use the free program to help with accountability.

We will educate you regarding wise Sleep Hygiene methods plus share tips and tricks you may utilize at home.

We will have a range of daily videos ranging from sharing helpful health information to fun nighttime wind-down activities.

Sign-up at https://BodyLoveCafe.com/classes

Whatever your circadian rhythm may be, striving to be done eating 2-3 hours before bedtime, getting to bed as early before midnight as possible, and having deep sleep from 2-4 am is ideal.

That 2-4 am window is when we make the most amount of natural opioids and we know that the amount of opioids in our body has a direct relationship to our neuroimmune health.

This can be very challenging for shift workers. Adaptations can be made but there are increased health risks with missing sleep during the night.

Why do we miss sleep? Everyone is unique but here are some common reasons: • • • • • •

Searching for solitude - often an exhausted mom might stay up late just craving an hour of quiet Procrastination - stress for the next day and avoidance, having too much work Insomnia - challenges to fall asleep ranging from physical to psychological Overstimulated - eating too late, watching Netflix, scrolling on the phone, addictions or substance use Pain - unresolved chronic pain can keep you up at night, along with acid reflux, restless leg syndrome, etc Lifestyle habits -not using wind-down activities, nor taming worry & runaway thoughts, maybe food is used for comfort or lack of activity during the day NORTHGATE LIVING CA 11

Our Community

Residents respond with lessons learned from Shelter-In-Place order

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

I posed this question to past contributors to the magazine; here are their thoughtful responses:

What new lifestyle change or attitude that you have learned during the shelter-inplace do you hope to take with you into our ‘new normal’ when this is all over?

“I have never prioritized working out before but since the shelter in place I have been working out almost every day to help pass the time and to reduce stress. I am hoping to emerge from this stronger and healthier!”

Kristin Shopp, Resident since 2014 “I have gained an attitude of live, love and laugh EVERY single day and be grateful for this life we have. My “new normal” will be to really take notice of the people everywhere I go- the grocery store, restaurants, church, the movies, the park- look at their faces, really SEE them and acknowledge them with a smile and a friendly ‘hello!’ I will celebrate the opportunity to be around people in social environments! Standing in lines will not be an inconvenience but another opportunity to notice those around me, to say hello and ask them about their day. I will hold much more dearly, the precious moments and gift of time I have with my friends and family- I will hug them tight and long and appreciate the ability to do so! I don’t believe I will ever go back to “how things were.” Life has changed, and I believe it may be a little different for everyone going forward. It will be interesting to see how other’s change (or don’t change) after this.

I can only say for myself, I know I will forever be more appreciative and grateful for the gift of time with my friends and loved ones.”

Kelly Perkins, Resident since 2007 “I’ve created a morning routine with meditation, and a gratitude practice that I plan on carrying forward into our new normal.”

Shayna Abraham, Resident since 2018

“I want to speak on behalf of mother nature. The pandemic has changed much of our human behavior. Planes are grounded, cars are idle, and Los Angeles now has the best air quality in the world.

Can you imagine that? San Francisco is number two. When I do venture out to my back yard, I can see the glow in every tree.

The flowers are bursting despite our lack of blowers, weed eaters, lawnmowers, and chain saws. My view out the window shows a small part of Mt. Diablo. The oaks are a distinctive green. In the post-pandemic reality, I want to stay home, forego the expansive trips, walk to the trails, and generally tend to my garden. Stewardship is not new. From our window to the world, we can do business as usual. Stay with that technology. Give the earth a chance.”

Tony Wayne Wolcott, Resident since 2014

talked to in a while. And let’s not forget, most of us are now more comfortable with Zoom or multi-person web calls. We can have more of those to break our busy weeks! Stay healthy and safe everyone!”

Kevin Wilk, Mayor ProTem Walnut Creek, Northgate resident since 1997 “So many material things that we thought were important and were part of our daily routine just aren’t that important any longer. If you have your health, you are the wealthiest person in the world. So much we have come to expect in our lives can so easily be taken away.”

Craig and Jill Judson, Residents since 1986

“During this ‘Pandemic’ I learned to be my own best company. Never gave thought to that before.”

Alice Mayo, Resident since 1965 “Physical distancing will bring to us more love, thoughtfulness, and togetherness.”

Kun Yan, Resdient since 2017 “Flexibility and resilience has been the key takeaway for me and my family. We have been shaken out of our normal schedules and routines. By necessity, we have had to adapt. Whenever we are able to move forward post-crisis, I believe we as a family will be more resilient to largescale changes, and appreciate the smaller things in life more: Making time for lunch or coffee with a friend. Taking more walks after work (or lunchtime), and reaching out more to family and friends we haven’t

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JUNE 2020

Acts of Kindness

Anonymous Fairy God Parents honor local graduating seniors

By Claire Denman, Resident since 2012

T

he other night I was watching a movie with my parents when I got a lovely surprise from P, W, B. in my mail box. I’m currently a high school senior at Northgate. Due to the shutdown, all of my classmates and I had to miss out on all the traditional senior events.

It’s something we have all been dreaming about since the beginning of our academic career. In this historical time I’ve learned to value what is truly the meaning in life, which is my family and my success. My school gave every senior a graduation sign for the front of their house to honor the loss of the rest of our year. I would like to personally thank this family/group for this generous letter. This means the world to me, especially when I’m an essential worker too.

It brought tears to my eyes. Thank you for spreading kindness to the class of 2020!

Note from the Content Coordinator: These letters have popped up all over the Northgate neighborhood; a wonderful random act of kindness. Please send other Acts of Kindness to knavolio@ bestversionmedia.com so we can share them with the neighborhood.

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 13

Expert Contributor

Can I Remodel My Home During COVID-19 Outbreak?

By Gordon Reese, Gordon Reese Design Build

S

pring has just begun, and this is an ideal time for homeowners to begin working on their home remodeling projects.

However, the COVID-19 pandemic has sequestered us indoors, leaving us to wonder whether remodeling is still a good idea or even possible. The answer? Depends on your personal situation. On May 4, 2020 construction/remodeling was approved to continue as an essential service. We can now start new projects using the required strict Covid health protocols. Visit our website for more information on remodeling during the pandemic.

is where you create your design, select all materials, and assemble a comprehensive plan that becomes the instruction manual for your project. Be sure you are working with a team that has 3D capability to give you a visual image that depicts your ideal dream space.

Remodeling Process

The pre-construction phase is when you’ve just finished finalizing design and permits, and the team is moving forward to start construction. This is when we build your remodeling schedule, order critical materials and have a pre-construction meeting to ensure your project gets off to the right start.

Feasibility Study - Planning - Pre Construction - Construction - Completed Project

Feasibility Study After a short discussion about your project you may decide to invite us to evaluate your existing conditions and review your home improvement goals. At the following meeting we will review the general scope of work and probable investment ranges. Now you are ready to decide if starting design within an established investment range makes sense.

Planning Phase This is the phase is where everything starts.

You might be either closing on a property or remodeling a part of your home. This

During the planning phase your chosen design-build firm will collaborate with you to create a feasible design plan and safe construction approach. This phase can be done virtually and at a safe distance.

Pre-Construction Phase

• Pre-Construction meeting will cover:

• How will my family live through our remodel?

• Barriers • Air filtration • Where to enter • Where to store materials • Portable bathroom for workers • What special safety procedures are in place during these challenging times?

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• When will the field team start and finish work daily?

• Much more…

Construction Phase This is the when all your on site remodeling takes place. Our goal is to complete your project on time and budget with minimal disruption and stress to your family.

To Remodel or Not? Frankly, you can continue remodeling your home amidst the pandemic, but be prepared for changing requirements as we navigate these uncertain times. Evaluate the urgency of your project but also plan ahead by doing virtual design sessions for upcoming items to make the most of your time. If you want to discuss your remodeling needs, reach out to our team for a virtual consultation.

JUNE 2020

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 15

Charity Spotlight

100+ Women Who Care of Contra Costa County

By Sheila Gilchrist, Resident since 1994

W

ant to make a meaningful impact on non-profits in Contra Costa County? Have limited time but want to make a difference in our community?

This is the group for you! Please join me and other women in your area and support Contra Costa County non-profits in a profound way.

Share your 2020 graduation stories!

W

e would love to hear how graduating seniors celebrated graduation in their own unique ways. Please email us your stories and photos by June 10 (knavolio@bestversionmedia.com).

100+ Women meet once a quarter, for 1 hour in Walnut Creek (4 hour time commitment per year). At each meeting we select 1 non-profit to support and each member then donates $100 directly to the charity (a $400 commitment per year). Every dollar goes directly to the cause we choose to support!

THERE IS STRENGTH IN NUMBERS! Your $100 per quarter gift becomes a gift of $10,000 per quarter to a local charity.

If you are interested, email: bartlow.kristin@gmail.com Our upcoming meetings are July 21 at 7pm and Oct. 20 at 7pm.

FREE June 13 - July 12

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

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

WEEKLY FOOD DELIVERY

925-788-6300

Team@BodyLoveCafe.com

Free 15-min consultation VIRTUAL VISITS, SHIP SUPPLEMENTS, LAB TESTS 16

JUNE 2020

Northgate High School

Northgate High School Seniors Reflect on Missing the End of Their Senior Year Compiled by Dr. Allyson Mayo, Resident since 2013

Grace Decker: As freshmen, sophomores and juniors, the class of 2020 sat on the sidelines as the seniors announced their college decisions, threw up their graduation caps, and moved on without looking back, knowing that one day it would be their turn. But these promises were cut short by the quarantine, and seniors are stuck at home without a proper ending to their biggest collective change yet, with no smooth transition to adulthood in sight. As I sit at home and watch TV, read books, and draw, I know how lucky I am to be living comfortably while thousands of people across the world are dying and struggling with the ramifications of the coronavirus. Still, it feels unfair to be robbed of the things I have waited my entire life for. But clearly, as the news tells us every day, the world can be an unfair place, but that doesn’t stop people from living. While it hurts to lose so many once in a lifetime moments, I’m grateful that not being able to throw up my graduation cap is my biggest problem in the cruel age of the coronavirus.

Matthew Giesecke: The subsequent events of the introduction of COVID 19 have left my peers and I emotionally conflicted. We understand that we are more than blessed to be safe and in good health, while families across the globe are left saying their last words to their loved ones on the other side of a glass window. However, we can’t help but find ourselves disheartened for how our senior year has concluded. Events such as Ball, Graduation, and senior trips that we have been planning and been looking forward to for years are all but a faint thought to move past from now. At first the idea of not attending a graduation didn’t seem too bad, as who really wants to sit in the blazing sun for hours on end and listen to what most likely would be a long and predicted graduation speech. Nevertheless, I realized that this ceremony is something that I greatly desire. My grandparents are really like second parents to me, but age is catching up to them. I wish to look out into the crowd to see their faces illuminated in joy from the pride and love they have for me, as there is no guarantee that they will be at my next. The mere notion of not having the moment to create this everlasting memory brings a sense of pain and sorrow to my heart. Instead, my mom, brother and I will celebrate graduation with a backyard bbq. Lastly, the absence of time to cherish the last few months I have with my friends and as a senior at Northgate has eradicated the feeling of closure that I would much desire before I commence what is to be my freshman year at USC.

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Several Northgate moms made these signs and delivered them to the homes of the Class of 2020.

Isabel Vladerama: Quarantine has been an emotional roller coaster from the beginning. I didn’t know my last day of school would be the last, which is why it’s been so difficult to keep a positive mindset. It’s also been upsetting to hear so many events I’ve been looking forward to most likely won’t be happening, such as ball and graduation. Although right now it seems like there’s more negatives than positives, this quarantine has taught me to be a lot more grateful for everything in my life. I’ve gotten to spend more time with my family and focus on myself, which has been a nice for a change.

Piper Christensen: “Quarantine has made me realize how privileged I am because it has truly been the worst thing that has ever happened to me.

That being said, it doesn’t mean I don’t have a right to be sad about losing all the “rights of passage” events every other person I know has had. I am constantly thinking about all the things that could have been and am worried that it will not only affect my senior year but my freshman year at college as well. I have lost all energy to do anything productive since I am stuck at home and lost a lot of the things I had been looking forward to my whole life. While I still have hopes for real graduation to take place, I plan on having a barbecue with my family to celebrate either way. If real graduation does not happen, I fully intend to wear my cap and gown at the barbecue and have my mom take pictures of me throwing my cap into the air.”

In the absence of official graduation ceremonies, how did your family mark the milestone? Send your photos and captions to knavolio@bestversionmedia.com by June 10.

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Community Safety

Be Tech-Ready for Emergencies

By Judy Caponigro, Resident since 2017, Northgate Area CERT Team

C

ommunication during an emergency is crucial when letting family and friends know what is happening to you.

Unfortunately, internet service providers, cell phone towers and landlines can be unpredictable and sometimes unreliable. So, along with your other planning, it’s important to make sure you are tech ready by following some of these tips from www.ready.gov.

and medical records.

Don’t forget to include your pet’s information.

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Back-up your computer to protect photos and other personally important electronic documents.

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Scan old photos to protect them from loss.

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Keep your contacts updated and synced across all of your channels, including phone, email and social media. This will make it easy to reach out to the right people quickly to get information and supply updates. Consider creating a group listserv of your top contacts.

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Create a group chat via a texting app or a thread for family/ friends/coworkers to communicate quickly during a disaster.

Use text messages, social media and email to connect with friends and family during emergencies.

Mobile networks can become overwhelmed during emergencies, making it difficult to place and receive phone calls. Text messages require less bandwidth, which means they are able to be transmitted more reliably during situations when many people are trying to use their mobile phones at the same time.

Social media channels such as Facebook and Twitter can also be an effective way to update family and friends during emergencies.

Facebook’s Safety Check feature allows users to easily post a status update indicating that they are safe during a time of disaster.

Register with American Red Cross’s Safe & Well site to let family and friends know you’re okay.

After registering, you can select a message to let family and friends know you’re OK. Concerned family and friends can search this list to find their loved one’s first name, last name, an “as of date” and the “safe and well” message.

Have an emergency charging option for your phone and other mobile devices.

Smartphones have become a vital tool to receive emergency alerts and warnings, so it’s important to make sure you can keep them powered up in an emergency.

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At home: Make sure that all of your electronic devices are fully charged. If the power goes out, preserve battery power by minimizing device use. Keep a back-up power source on hand to recharge your phone so that you can stay connected even during an extended power outage.

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In your car: Keep a portable phone charger in your vehicle at all times, and consider purchasing a back-up power supply to keep in your vehicle as well.

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Change the settings on your phone to low power mode or place it on airplane mode to conserve energy.

Sign up for Direct Deposit and electronic banking through your financial institution so you can access your payroll funds and make electronic payments wherever you are.

For more information, please visit www.ready.gov/get-tech-ready.

Next month: Financial Prepardedness 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.

Store important documents in a secure, passwordprotected jump drive or in the cloud.

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There are a number of productivity apps for mobile devices that make this easier than ever, using your phone’s camera as a scanning device. Capture electronic versions of important documents such as insurance policies, identification documents,

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Exploring the outdoors

Rattlesnake Safety in the Regional Parks

By Jen Vanya, East Bay Regional Park District | Photo credit: Kevin Dixon

W

ith this year’s early spring, Park District staff and visitors have observed the re-emergence of snakes – most notably rattlesnakes – seen periodically along the park’s trails that make up their natural habitat. When the weather gets warm, snakes come out to explore their environment, which can lead to more encounters with humans and dogs. The East Bay Regional Park District is advising that the public take snake safety precautions when visiting Regional Parks.

Safety Tips for Visiting Regional Parks 1. Avoid hiking alone so you have help in case of emergency. (Per local health orders, hike only with members of your immediate household during COVID-19) 2. Scan the ground ahead of you as you walk, jog, or ride. Stay on trails and avoid walking in tall grass.

3. Look carefully around and under logs and rocks before sitting down.

4. Avoid placing your hands or feet where you cannot see clearly.

5. Keep leashed pets on designated trails and away from snakes if they see one. (All dogs should be on-leash at all times, in all parks during COVID-19) 6. Bring plenty of water for yourself and your pets as drinking fountains are temporarily closed. Many parks do not have a direct water supply.

What to Do If You See a Rattlesnake Leave it alone - do not try to capture or harm it. All park wildlife is protected by

law. If you see a snake on a trail, wait for it to cross and do not approach. Then move carefully and slowly away.

What to Do If Bitten by a Snake 1. If bitten by a rattlesnake, stay calm and send someone to call 911. Remain calm by lying down with the affected limb lower than the heart. Getting medical attention quickly is critical - do not spend time on tourniquets, “sucking,” or snake bite kits. If you are by yourself, walk calmly to the nearest source of help to dial 911. Do not run.

2. If bitten by any other kind of snake, wash the wound with soap and water or an antiseptic and seek medical attention.

3. If you are not sure what kind of snake bit you, check the bite for two puncture marks (in rare cases one puncture mark) associated with intense, burning pain. This is typical of a rattlesnake bite. Other snakebites may leave multiple teeth

marks without associated burning pain.

Snakes are an important resource in the natural environment. They are prime controlling agents of rodents, insects, and other reptile populations. Enjoy them from afar and leave them where they are found. It is illegal to collect, kill, or remove any plants or animals from the East Bay Regional Park District.

Please help us to protect wildlife and their environment for present and future generations. Additional information is available at ebparks.org/SnakeSafety or download a PDF version of our Common Snakes brochure.

The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,300 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives more than 25 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

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Congratulations to TAPS seniors!

By Amy Liberatore, Resident since 2009

The Teen and Parent Service Organization (TAPS) is so proud of our senior graduating class of 2020! Throughout their high school career these amazing seniors have volunteered over 800 hours of their time to serve others in our community. TAPS wishes each senior girl well, and we know they will succeed in whatever they decide to do.

Ashley Burke:

After graduation, I plan to attend UCSD to study human biology. In college, I want to join a volunteering group that will help me gain volunteering opportunities to directly interact with people in the community, like TAPS has allowed me to do.

Grace Corrigan:

Next year I’m going to UCSB as an undeclared College of Letters and Science honors student and Mellon Humanities Fellow. TAPS makes it really easy to volunteer, which in turn makes you motivated to serve more because there

are so many ways to do so. It helps you meet people you wouldn’t necessarily know otherwise…and makes you more aware of all the opportunities and organizations available for volunteering.

Victoria Greenberg:

Victoria is currently working for a corporation here in Walnut Creek assisting with Accounts Receivables and Loan Processing. She has committed to UCSB where she plans on attending in July.

Serafina Islam:

After graduation I plan on moving to London to study business. I have some family there so I will have the opportunity to spend time with them as well as explore the UK and Europe in between my studies. Over my future summers I plan on working with companies to learn more about business to see which specific field of business I would like to focus on studying and working with in the future.

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Rylie Lawrence:

Next year I will be attending Cal Poly San Luis Obispo studying kinesiology. TAPS has given me the opportunity to connect with my community, the people around me, and myself, revealing the importance and passion I have for giving back and making a difference in the lives of others.

Erin Matson:

Moving forward, after high school, I will be attending Chico State in the fall studying child development! I am very excited to continue my education and hopefully to become an occupational therapist. TAPS, to me, is an opportunity to give back to the community and a way to bond with people within the community. It’s an amazing experience and is truly heart-warming.

Alexandra Miloradovitch:

I am planning to go to Texas Christian University (TCU) to study business communications (go frogs!!). I plan to keep, close to my heart, all of the life skills and passion for helping people that TAPS has helped me develop over my four years, and I am so excited for what the future holds!

Isabella Sri:

Next year, I’ll be attending UCSB in the fall as an English major. Being able to help out the community alongside my friends and my mom has made TAPS so special to me. I’ve realized how easy it is for me to take my family and community for granted, and now that I won’t be able to spend as much time with either, I will always cherish the time I spent in TAPS.

Sophie Ward:

I will be attending Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia in the fall as a psychology major! I am so excited to be graduating and moving onto college but I will definitely miss all the girls I have become friends with in TAPS that have made the last few years so memorable!

Abigail Young:

I will be going to the University of Michigan to study Community and Global Public Health.

I plan to pursue a career in medicine or public health. In college, I want to join a volunteering group that will help me gain volunteering opportunities to directly interact with people in the community, like TAPS has allowed me to do.

TAPS is a community service organization of local high school girls and parents who are committed to volunteer and serve those in need throughout Walnut Creek and the bay area. If interested in our organization please go to Tapservice.org for more information.

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NORTHGATE LIVING CA 21

Expert Contributor

While Jewelry May Not Be “Essential,” Love and Celebration Are!

By Steve Padis, Padis Jewelry & The Broadway Plaza Forevermark Boutique

J

ust like you, we at Padis Jewelry have been social distancing to protect our community and families. Many of us are getting restless and we’ve all been asked to sacrifice a lot; like milestone celebrations, family gatherings, and date nights out. A quote that really struck us during all of this is that “we are all in the same storm but not in the same boat.” We love this because it’s a great reminder that we all are fighting through this and getting by however we can. We have so many friends and family that have struggled through this and our hearts are with them and anyone who is going through tough times. It is certainly a challenge to have your livelihood put at stake by an invisible enemy in the form of a pandemic.

Mostly what we’ve missed is human interaction. Perhaps the biggest “win” experienced from the short-lived isolation from our community is a new appreciation for the people in our lives we’ve had to live without. Our relationships, our families, our coworkers and our “tribe” are so crucial to what makes life worth living. We have seen couple after couple, and family after family find unique and creative ways

to celebrate love and life’s most precious moments.

Edgar and Abigail are a perfect example of this. Edgar had truly epic plans for his proposal including having both families fly out for their special moment. As circumstances changed, Edgar pivoted his plan to perhaps one of the most beautiful proposals we’ve ever seen – complete with rose petals, their dog and a scenic background of the city of San Francisco.

These photos bring tears to our eyes, and we want to share them as a reminder that despite these crazy times, love always finds a way!

You can be confident that our Padis Jewelry family will be here for you when it’s safe to celebrate life’s most precious milestones together again, every step of the way. We understand more than ever that love isn’t canceled. We are here for you to help celebrate all of those life moments.

We cannot wait to welcome you back in the store again soon. Stay safe and healthy!

From the Entire Padis Jewelry Family Photo credit: Shannon Alyse Photo

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JUNE 2020

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Northgate LIVING CA

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