Northgate Living CA March 2022

Mailed Directly to Northgate Residents and Published Online

MARCH 2022

Northgate LIVING CA

Meet the McCormicks: Grateful for their village 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

Happy spring! I have been enjoying hiking all around our Walnut Creek open space trails searching for this year’s first wild flowers and letting nature feed my soul. I hope you are enjoying it too.

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.

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

We’ve also got some great expert articles, a highlight on Northgate’s wrestling coach Mike Wenzell, and a review of a new children’s book written by resident Jennifer Lazzarini.

Element Wealth Management Chris J. Held, CFP®, CRPS® CA Insurance #0E56816 (925) 433-9533 chris.held@elementwm.com www.elementwm.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.

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.

This month we are so pleased to introduce you to the McCormick family. Melissa McCormick (Chin) grew up here and has returned to the neighborhood she loved as a child with her husband to raise their three daughters. I hope you will enjoy their story and appreciate their love for this community.

We are dedicated to sharing your stories and interests. If there is anything you would like to share with our community, or see in our magazine, please don’t hesitate to email me at knavolio@ bestversionmedia.com. Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook: NorthgateLivingCa for the latest updates.

Kara Navolio

Evergreen IAQ JC Garcia 925-444-5069 jc@evergreenIAQ.com https://evergreeniaq.com

Find us online NorthgateLivingCA www.NorthgateLivingCA.com

“Very friendly and professional. Dr. listened carefully and explained things well. Would recommend.” - Julie Z

Body Love Cafe Dr. Brandy Zachary, DC, IFMCP (925) 788-6300 Team@BodyLoveCafe.com www.BodyLoveCafe.com Concrete Paver Restorations Drew Bogetti 408-828-6903 www.cprpaver.com drew@cprpaver.com

Northgate Living CA Content Coordinator Resident Since 1991

Brian J. Hockel, DDS

Michaela Ching, DDS

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

2651 Oak Grove Rd, Walnut Creek, CA 94598 Next to the Ygnacio Valley Library

www.lifedentalortho.com | (925) 357-3630 2

Feel Safe: We Take Our COVID-19 Precautions Very Seriously MARCH 2022

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

General Dentistry, Orthodontics, Cosmetic Dentistry, Airway-Friendly Smiles, Teeth Cleanings, Exams, Fillings, Crowns, Implant Restorations, Veneers, Dentures, Sleep Apnea Treatments

Expert Contributors

Dentist

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 One of the McCormicks favorite vacation spots is Disneyland.

Meet the McCormicks: Grateful for their village

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

means to be part of a community,” she adds.

In true full circle fashion with this community, her swim coach, Scott Hirsch, also coached her daughters, and Luann Hirsch was Melissa’s teacher in elementary school and now teaches her daughters piano. [The Hirsches were featured in this magazine in Sept. 2021.

You can still read their story online at www. northgatelivingca.com] The McCormicks have three daughters. Sarah is 11, and a busy girl with many interests. At heart, she is a naturalist and loves playing outside with animals and insects, gardening and wishes to “save and clean up the world.” She plays piano and is also an avid reader and lover of Harry Potter and the Land of Stories series.

She stays active with swimming at Scottsdale (a breaststroker like her mom), soccer and basketball. In basketball her nickname is “Cobra” for her aggressive play on defense and striking the ball.

Samantha and Shanan are 9-year-old twins.

Like their older sister and mom, both swim for Scottsdale and excel at breaststroke. Samantha loves soccer and math and is known as the “dog whisperer.” She also plays piano. Samantha plans on being a baker when she grows up and would like to go to Paris to enjoy all of the French baked goods!

elissa and Josh McCormick moved to their current Northgate home in 2010.

Melissa had grown up here and wanted to return to the neighborhood so her kids could experience a childhood similar to hers where people helped each other and enjoyed a sense of community. They also wanted to have grandparents and extended family close by.

M

Shanan prefers cats and is the one in the family who loves singing, dancing and performing.

She is a great goalie on her soccer team, loves reading and horses, and also plays the piano; her favorite song to play is Disney’s Part of your World.

Melissa was born and raised in Walnut Creek. She swam for Scottsdale Swim Team and attended Carondelet High School, also swimming for the high school team. She attended UC Davis for her undergraduate studies, then UCLA for dental school. This is where she met Josh. She now practices orthodontics with her father in San Francisco.

Josh loves the 49ers and participating in Fantasy Football. Melissa spends her free time running and participating in Masters Swimming. She has done two swims to Alcatraz.

Josh, who was born in Pennsylvania and grew up in the Southern California town of Temecula, attended UC San Diego, then UCLA for dental school. He and Melissa married in 2009 at St. Mary’s Church in Walnut Creek, and he began practicing dentistry in Concord, just a few minutes from their home.

The family has rescued two English Setter pups. Riley was an underweight, stressed, hairless, sick dog when they found him through Contra Costa Animal Shelter. He is now a soft, cuddly, healthy dog who they love dearly. After falling in love with this breed, they decided to rescue another English Setter, Waylon, who is a high energy dog who loves to run fast.

“This neighborhood has molded me into who I am as an adult,” says Melissa. As a teen she volunteered at John Muir Hospital, worked at Heather Farms as a lifeguard and a swim coach for San Miguel Swim Team. “These experiences taught me what it

4

MARCH 2022

All 3 McCormick girls swim for Scottsdale.

Riley and Waylon

The McCormicks love Disneyland and for the past four years have based their family Halloween costumes on Disney themes (Sleeping Beauty, Monsters Inc., Donald Duck’s family, and in 2021 Cinderella).

They also enjoy going on fun adventures like to the redwood forest and San Francisco art museums, or staying close to home and exploring the Farmers’ Market or hiking in our beautiful open space. Every year they enjoy the Nutcracker at the Dean Lesher Center in downtown Walnut Creek.

Melissa adds, “I love the small town feel of Walnut Creek with the convenience of big city amenities. We may be growing in size, but everyone still knows everyone and still wants to help each other. We love our community and what it has given back to our family. The support from family and friendships is wonderful.” All of Melissa’s three brothers and their families as well as her parents also live within five minutes, adding to that sense of community. “With two working parents it requires a village, and we are so grateful for our village.”

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.

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 5

Pet Corner

Real Estate

Jolly

ARF Adoption Stars

By Cole Kuiper, ARF

Real Estate is proudly sponsored by The Rita Dhillon Team

Chris

Real Estate Listings in Northgate

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.

Seven-year-old Jolly is a gentle fellow looking for his forever family. Leisure strolls around the park and a nice cuddle session with his person are idea activities for Jolly. This sweet pup would flourish in a stable, quiet home with a predictable routine. He has a positive history with other dogs and currently weighs 42 pounds. Jolly has stage B2 Mitral and Tricuspid valve disease. This means the valves in his heart are leaking, causing his heart to work harder, and that he will need to be on medication for the rest of his life, to slow the progression of heart disease.

2/10/2022

Active Listings Address List Price 3408 Withersed Ln 2936 Hurlstone Ct 599 Walnut Ave

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).

$2,095,000 $1,290,000 $1,100,000

Pending Listings Address List Price Nine-year-old Chris is a handsome man looking for a patient guardian with whom he can relax and snuggle with. It may take him some time to warm up, but once he does, he is a total love bug. Chris has a positive history with other cats.

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).

595 Las Lomas Way 146 Via Monte

$3,500,000 $1,488,888

Sold Listings Address Sold Price 3533 Perada Dr

$1,970,000

BD

BT

SQFT

3 2 3

3,138 2,218 1,920

BD

BT

SQFT

4 5

4.5 2.5

4,833 2,436

BD

BT

SQFT

DOM

4

2.5

2,167

2,167

5 4 4

WE WANT TO HEAR YOUR STORY!

2 6 3

DOM 17 7

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

LEGACIES START HERE.

DOM

#1 Northgate & Walnut Creek Realtor *TOTA L SA LES VOLUME FROM 2001-2021

● Tell your kid’s story with BVM Sports – the #1 place for the latest in local, college and pro sports coverage.

Rita Dhillon

925.570.1010 rita.dhillon@compass.com DRE 01109990

● Share your story with one of the most trusted names in local sports news. ● See your story published across all BVM Sports media platforms!

Tim Dhillon

925.570.0418 tim.dhillon@compass.com DRE 01521381

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

Khush Kermanizadeh 925.577.3422 khush@compass.com DRE 01480990

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

FREE, EASY, & FAST • NO ACCOUNT NEEDED!

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.

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MARCH 2022

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 7

March Tues., Mar. 8 An Evening with Author Elise Hooper

@WC Library, Oak View Room Author Elise Hooper will speak about Angels of the Pacific, her new novel about a group of courageous US and Filipino army nurses who band together to help the Allies win World War II. Elise will provide a behindthe-book look at the incredible real-life women who inspired the story. Books will be available for sale and signing. Register for this free program at wclibrary.org/live.

Cost: Free Time: 7-8:30 pm

Tues., Mar. 15 Growing Tomatoes in your Home Garden: A UC Master Gardener Webinar

@online Learn everything you need to know to grow tomatoes in your home garden. You will learn tips for choosing the right varieties, how to start the plants off right and care for them as they grow, and how to avoid common problems before they occur. Whether you are planting in a container on your balcony, an expansive garden or something in between, get ready to harvest plenty of ripe, tasty tomatoes that you’ve grown yourself!

Registration required at: ccclib.org.

Cost: Free Time: 6-7:30pm

Fri., Mar. 18 – Sun., Mar. 20 St. Patrick’s Day Leprechaun Scavenger Hunt @ Borges Ranch The Arts + Rec team will hide 15 Leprechaun clues at Old Borges Ranch Open Space during the weekend of 3/18-3/20. Sign up to hunt for all your St. Patrick’s Day favorites in your local open space while enjoying the outdoors.

Before the hunt, you will receive an emailed Scavenger Hunt Map. Follow the clues any time during the window of 3/18 - 3/20. Once

New children’s book

CALENDAR OF EVENTS you reach your final step, take a selfie and email it by 3/23 to ArtsRecEvents@walnutcreek.org to be entered into a raffle. Dressing in St. Patrick’s Day green encouraged!

Scavenger hunt should take approximately 30 minutes and is geared to families with children aged 8 & younger. www.communityarts.org Cost: $10 per family Time: at your own pace

Fri., Mar. 18 Family Movie Night: The Muppets

@ Civic Park Socially distanced, families will enjoy an outdoor movie experience. Registration includes glow sticks for all the kids. Bring a blanket to sit on, low lawn chairs and any additional snacks you want. Bundle up as it may be cool! Space is limited to guarantee a small event with lots of room for each family to spread out. Rain cancels event.

Register at www.communityarts.org.

Cost: $25 per family of 6 Time: 7:30pm

Thurs., Mar. 24 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

focuses on acceptance and kindness

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

Through June 19 Forced to Flee

@Bedford Gallery, Lesher Center for the Arts Throughout history, people have been forced to flee from their homes for their own safety and survival due to war, oppression, natural disasters, and atrocious human rights violations. The refugee crisis has imposed severe impacts on the social, economic, and political structures of host countries, especially poor and developing nations. This powerful and timely exhibition illustrates the global chal­lenges arising from the current refugee crisis affecting communities across the world. Forced to Flee was organized

by Studio Art Quilt Associates, Inc. Cost: $5 Time: Gallery open from Thurs. – Sun., 12-5pm, excluding holidays

Any day Public Art Self-Guided Audio Tour

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

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

Every Saturday Farmers’ Market

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

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

N

orthgate resident Jennifer Lazzarini has published her first children’s book What Matters? The picture book for 3-6 year olds delivers a message of acceptance of all types of people regardless of skin color, beliefs, or how one looks. In the end all that matters is how we treat others.

Author Jennifer Lazzarini and her family. Photo by Anna Vickroy, Photography by Ultra-spective

Jennifer has lived in Northgate since 2008. Her three children attended Valle Verde Elementary School. Her daughter, now 25, also attended Foothill and Northgate High School. Her 14 year old son attends Foothill and her 11 year old son attends Contra Costa School for the Performing Arts. Jennifer came to writing her first book in a non-traditional way.

It all started with a dream, but not her dream. The dream was her friend’s. At coffee one day her friend, Anna, told her that she dreamed about Jennifer’s son. In the dream the son was reading a book that had been penned by Jennifer. Since Jennifer had never thought about writing a book, the dream seemed random and something that would soon be forgotten. But somehow the thought would not leave her alone. Then a few weeks later, she woke up one day with the entire book concept in her head.

Photo by Anna Vickroy, Photography by Ultra-spective

“I have two boys that don’t look like traditional boys,” says Jennifer. “I thought about them and all the other people that matter. It breaks my heart when I see kids not being accepted for who they are.” And with this inspiration, the book was born.

“I felt this message was important to get out there,” adds Jennifer. But first she needed an illustrator and a publisher, and she had a lot to learn. She hired a publisher who perfectly saw her vision, creating characters of all shapes, colors and sizes.

She decided to publish the book herself using Amazon KDP. Her 14-year-old Noah was helpful in making sure the text was in kid-friendly words. The process took about eight months, and the book was published in paperback ($6.99) and on Kindle ($3.99) in December 2021. She has donated several copies to the Valle Verde library and to many of our neighborhood Little Free Libraries. As one reviewer on Amazon writes: “This book couldn’t encompass more what we teach our kiddos at home.

Start the conversation early with your kids about acceptance of not only themselves, but others. Talk about what inclusivity is, what it truly means to be a good friend and how they can be an ally to all humans. From the beautiful illustrations to the simple yet powerful language of teaching ‘what matters’ in life, this book is it.”

You can follow Jennifer on Instagram @JennLazz75.

“Children are born loving everyone,” she adds. “They learn prejudices over time. The goal of the book is to share a message of understanding and kindness with others.” What matters?... well, everyone matters!

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE APPTS Award-Winning Holistic Clinic

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THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE, ACUPUNCTURE, BODYWORK, ENERGY MEDICINE

Free 15-min Consultation - www.BodyLoveCafe.com

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MARCH 2022

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 9

Recipes

Expert Contributor

Fuel-Up Fennel Salad

Understanding Skin Care

By Shelise Irby, RD with Body Love Cafe

W

By Lisa Assoni, Short Cut Cook, Resident since 2012

e’ve all clicked on an article with a title that sounds like: “A Day in the Life of XYZ Model - How She Eats, Works and Sleeps,” or “Exact Diet and Skincare Routine of XYZ Actress.”

•

Oil is your friend. Whether it’s the oil coming from fat in your diet or oil you are applying to your skin, nothing has healed my skin more than oils and healthy fats.

You read through the entire article plus some of the comments at the bottom to hopefully, (finally), find the silver bullet that will solve all your skin problems for good… I admit, this was me growing up. I would see models and actresses with seemingly perfect skin and wonder what I was doing wrong. Had I not found the right skincare products or makeup? Why did my skin react badly to 90% of the things I put on it? Do I really need to practice a “supermodel” diet, to reach my goal? I had so many questions and no one to guide me. As a young woman with acne, oily skin, redness, and extreme sensitivity it didn’t seem like there was any winning in this constant battle with my skin. I was confused and frustrated and only through years of experimentation with my diet, skincare products, makeup, supplements, and lifestyle activities did I finally reach a place where I can say my skin has never looked better than it does now. Supporting healthy skin has become a passion of mine and here are a few tips I learned along the way:

•

Ingredients do matter. I’m not saying that organic and natural is always better depending on your skin goals, but finding out what ingredients work for YOUR skin is vital.

•

Diet makes a difference. Not only your hydration levels, but your protein intake is key in maintaining your skin health. I’ve never met someone with good skin who is chronically dehydrated.

T

•

Exercise is the skincare support you have been missing. The skin needs good blood flow to detoxify and repair properly. Raising your heart rate daily allows you to take advantage of this super skin benefit.

Yield: 4 servings

•

Less is more when it comes to your skin. Don’t over-do it when it comes to procedures, facials, washing, exfoliating, layering products, etc. The skin needs to breathe and typically only needs to be washed 1 time per day with a gentle cleanser.

•

Maybe it’s hormones. If you are having periods and notice your skin is always worse on your cycle, or you are peri/post-menopausal and old skin issues are starting to re-surface, then it’s time to look at hormones.

Now, think about your skin. If you see a future version of yourself with skin that is more vibrant and glowing, then it’s time to take another look at your choices. Visit our website at www.bodylovecafe.com to sign up for a SKINCARE WORKSHOP I will be hosting in March and schedule a free 15-minute appointment with one of our health coaches to see what’s possible.

his mighty bulb packs a wallop of flavor and antioxidants, with a little fiber, potassium and calcium tossed in. Eat often and stay stronger.

• • • • • •

3 cups diced fennel bulb 2 cups diced celery 1 cup sliced sweet white onion 1/4 cup diced carrots 1/2 teaspoon salt 8 oz. shredded Swiss cheese, or jack

For the dressing: • • • • •

1/2 cup olive oil 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 3 teaspoons capers 3 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 teaspoon honey 1 teaspoon sweet hot mustard

In a medium bowl, add fennel, celery, onion and carrots. Stir in salt and cheese. In a small bowl, mix all the dressing ingredients together. Stir, and pour over salad. Serve.

Expert Contributor

Gummy Vitamins:

Yes or No?

By Brian J. Hockel, DDS, Resident since 1964

A

s a parent, I understand the importance of making sure my children get enough sleep, fresh air, social time, exercise, healthy food, etc.

For some, this may mean supplementing a child’s diet with daily vitamins.

My own kids take vitamin supplements every day. But as a dentist, I also make sure that those vitamins do not help cause tooth decay as well!

One rule of my household has always been to avoid any sugary, sticky candy because it is cariogenic (causes tooth decay). Cariogenic foods tend to stay on the surface of the teeth and block the good effect that saliva has in neutralizing the harmful acids formed during meals by the bacteria that live in the mouth. The sticky film on the teeth ends up facilitating the acid’s demineralization (eating away at the minerals of the tooth enamel). Weaker enamel is more susceptible to tooth decay, cracks and chips. With enough enamel lost, the teeth can also become extremely sensitive to hot and cold.

What? No sticky candy? Sadly, no, not in my house. No gummy candy, no fruit roll ups. We even avoid raisins for the same reason! I am the one

Dental visits are more fun when you avoid gummy foods.

Quick St. Patrick's Day Dinners

Dark areas show cavities caused by sticky foods between teeth.

who ends up fixing the cavities resulting from these foods, so I have a big interest in prevention.

Of course, avoiding sticky foods should be a knee-jerk habit for those who have orthodontic appliances or restorations such as crowns or bridges. The stickiness can dislodge or loosen these restorations or appliances, sending the patient back to the dentist for costly replacements.

But, back to vitamins: those must be an exception, right? Isn’t it more important to maintain the optimal nutritional balance for a child than it is to worry about potential dental problems? Well, in my professional dental opinion, finding a way to achieve both goals is possible: just look for nongummy vitamin options. My children either swallow a vitamin with water or consume a chewable (non-gummy) one with meals. That way we end up with a win-win: proper intake of vitamins without the risk of tooth decay and bent appliances.

If vitamins are a part of your child’s daily routine, also keep in mind the importance of maintaining optimal dental health; say NO to gummy vitamins!

10

MARCH 2022

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

W

hen my kids were young, they didn’t really like the traditional Corned Beef and Cabbage on March 17, so I created these festive alternatives to still honor the day.

Irsih Baked Potato Bar • • • • • •

1 baked potato per person cooked broccoli, chopped in bite size pieces shredded cheddar cheese store bought corned beef, shredded butter and/or sour cream (colored green if you like) chopped green onions

Corned Beef Sandwiches • • • • •

Sliced corned beef from the deli (warmed) Slices of Dubliner White Cheddar Cheese mustard Lettuce Rye bread, or other

Serve with green drinks or Guiness for the parents!

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 11

Local Sports

Northgate Wrestling enjoys 15 seasons of success under Coach Mike Wenzell

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

I

t’s hard to imagine that anyone could fill the shoes of retiring Northgate Wrestling Coach Mike Wenzell. But all eras must eventually come to an end, and Tom Booth, an assistant coach for the past five years, will try.

Wenzell began his wrestling career at the age of 10 in Pennsylvania where wrestling is a popular youth sport. He wrestled through middle and high school. In his senior year he finished 4th in the state and was captain of the team. He received a partial scholarship to attend Rider University in New Jersey, a Division I school for wrestling. In 1980 he won the East Coast Conference Championship at the 126 pound weight class, which qualified him for the NCAA Division I Championships.

After college he volunteered as a referee and youth coach for about five years while working in real estate finance. When he moved to Walnut Creek, he discovered wrestling was not as popular here, and there were no options for his young son to wrestle.

It was not until 2008 that Wenzell was reunited with the sport he loves. “Once wrestling is in your blood,” he says, “it’s there forever.”

And when he found the chance to help out with Northgate High School’s wrestling program and the accompanying Walnut Creek Wrestling Club for 1st - 8th graders, it was destiny.

In 2014 he assumed head coaching responsibility from the departing coach Carlos Sumulong. During his tenure as Head Coach, Wenzell’s teams have amassed a regular season record of 73 wins and 15 losses, earned three league championships, and in 2017 won the NCS Division II Dual Meet Championships for the first time in Northgate’s history. Under his leadership the teams have won NCS Dual Meet Championships twice, placed 2nd twice and 3rd twice.

The 2020 season was the most memorable, ending right before the pandemic shutdown. That year they went 13-0 in dual meets, won

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the league and NCS Dual Meet Championships for the 2nd time, and placed 5th in the NCS Individual Championships (out of 100+ schools, the highest finish in Northgate history). Wenzell fondly remembers the highlight of that season during the NCS finals when they were competing against Benicia.

Just 10 days earlier they had beat Benicia unexpectedly during the regular season on a 9th tie breaker after a 36-36 A dual meet deadlock. Benicia full expected to beat Northgate circle in the rematch at the NCS moment: In Wenzell’s final year of finals, but instead, Northgate coaching, his top wrestler, Angelo smashed Benicia, winning Esposito, commits to wrestle at his alma mater, Rider University.

57-24. That year Wenzell was also named Diablo Athletic League Coach of the Year. He attributes the success to the hard work of the entire coaching staff (an army of 8 assistant coaches) and the wrestling families.

“I see wrestling as a metaphor for life,” explains Wenzell. “The determination and effort needed in this individual sport are the same as the skills needed in life. So I see my role as building character. At the end of the day, it’s not about their record; it’s about responsibility, accountability, dedication. That’s what determines their success in the sport and in the character they develop.” Wenzell likes to remind his wrestlers of something the 1972 gold medalist wrestler Dan Gable said: “Once you’ve wrestled, everything else in life is easy.”

In 2015 Wenzell welcomed the first girls to the Northgate team; they now have 9. In 2016 he spearheaded the building of a wrestling room so the team could have their own dedicated space. It was years in the making to receive administration and district approval, then to raise the funds, which primarily came from his own donations and those of friends and wrestling families.

During his time, Northgate has also had individual wrestlers earn accolades. From 2015 – 2020, Northgate has had 21 wrestlers earn medals at the NCS Championships (the top 8 wrestlers in each weight class earn medals), and six wrestlers qualify for the CIF State Championships. In 2020 Cole Sanchez won 1st place; Northgate’s first NCS champion in 20 years. This year’s State Championships will take place on Feb. 24-26 (after printing of this magazine), and they hope to have several wrestlers competing.

Current senior Angelo Esposito is expected to compete at the State Championships and has committed to Rider University, Wenzell’s alma mater. Three former Northgate wrestlers are also currently competing at the college level: Gage Mettler at San Francisco State, Liv Villanueva at Southern Oregon, and Nic Le Sieur at Worcester Poly Tech Institute in MA. As Wenzell heads into retirement after his 15 seasons, he reflects, “It’s funny – you go into coaching a sport like wrestling hoping you will be able to have a positive impact on the lives of young men and women – and as I look back, I realize that it is those very young men and women that have had a tremendous positive impact on MY life!”

It’s a hard act to follow, but we wish Tom Booth and the future teams much success as well.

Send your local sports stories to knavolio@bestversionmedia.com.

Dr. Christopher Matock, DC CCSP Dr. Sergio Perry, DC

925.322.8074

more local sports articles just like this on BVMSports.com

www.precisionsportsmedicine.com

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MARCH 2022

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NORTHGATE LIVING CA 13

Expert Contributor

Alternative to College Fair

Why should I consider

3D design for my remodel?

returns to in-person March 18-19

By Shayna Abraham, Resident since 2018

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

3

D Design is not only taking the world by storm but also allows us to offer our clients an unparalleled design experience. 3D Designing has made it possible to experience the design of your home before your remodel has even started. Read on to learn more about how 3D Design is changing the world of home remodeling as we know it!

The Benefits of Using 3D Design for Home Remodeling 1.

Virtually walking through your new spaces will keep you from sleepless nights worrying if you made the right design decisions.

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3D design lets you experiment with different designs.

You can easily switch out different types of flooring or countertops, or add or remove windows, for example. This saves money, hassle, and stress!

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Are you ready to get your home remodeling project started?

Gordon Reese Design Build can guide you through the design and construction of your home renovation providing you with price certainty, a stress-free experience and the highest level of professionalism. It’s easy to reach us at www.GordonReese.com or call us on (925) 885-3770. We look forward to the opportunity of helping you create your dream space!

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T

he ‘Alternative to College Fair,’ founded in the Bay Area in 2015, will again be in-person on March18-19, 2022 at the Walnut Creek Marriott. The College Parent Survival Network is the host. The ‘Alternative to College Fair’ was started by Northgate resident, Shayna Abraham. The event is known as the Alt Fair.

In spring 2020, the fair was scheduled to expand beyond the Bay Area and host an inaugural event in Denver, Colorado. That event was a trial to see how responsive families in a different geographic region were to the idea of an “Alternative-to-College Fair”.

Alongside Shayna, Joanna Lilley, MA. NCC of Lilley Consulting pivoted in 2020 to host a “Virtual Alt Fair” series trying to connect young adults, families, and professionals to still have access to learning about alternative-to-college programs. “Although it was accessible, it just wasn’t the same as an in-person fair. There’s a buzz that is palpable. Young adults seeing other young adults who are in the same boat - trying to figure out an alternative path. I am truly grateful to be able to host this in-person again in 2022,” Shayna said.

The target audience for the Alt Fair is young adults with pre-existing weaknesses, struggles or high school seniors and/or young adults who have left post-secondary institutions are encouraged to attend this in-person event in Walnut Creek, CA. The description of the audience is intentionally broad because all the alternative options that are presenting have a variety of young adults that they serve.

Parents are also welcome to attend and will have an opportunity to

learn more about College Parent Survival Network and meet other parents trying to support their emerging adult child. This event is not to be confused with a traditional Gap Year Fair.

New to the 2022 event is that it will be over two days. The first day, March 18, 2022, is a networking opportunity between professionals and program participants only. The second day, March 19, 2022, will be the Alt Fair. This event is free for our community members and we encourage anyone interested to join us.

• •

Young Adults/High School students in search of details about the March 19th in-person event, please contact hello@ collegealternative.org.

Parents looking to learn about the College Parent Survival Network or the event, please contact hello@collegealternative. org

About College Parent Survival Network:

College Parent Survival Network is the safest online community for parents seeking support, direction, and guidance around helping their child launch into adulthood, whether that includes college or not.

Offering parents a platform to ask questions, normalize they aren’t alone, and learn from experts around college and early adulthood.

For more information, please check out the community. College Parent Survival Network is owned and operated by two Therapeutic Consultants and one College Consultant. This collaboration was formed in an effort to help parents early, and potentially save the young adult from pain in the future.

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MARCH 2022

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 15

Expert Contributor

Nonprofit Spotlight

A Glimpse into a Classroom Discussion

Diabetic Alert Dogs Save Lives!

By Daniel Araujo, 7th & 8th English Language Arts Teacher at Contra Costa Christian School

S

ilent, except for the occasional squeak of a chair, twenty middle school students survey the room, wondering who will speak first. We’ve been reading, annotating and preparing questions about our class novel.

By Victoria Briskin, Early Alert Canines

F

or more than a decade, Early Alert Canines (EAC), located in Concord, California, 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.

Most clients have type 1 diabetes and rely upon insulin therapy to survive. While this can keep someone alive and help maintain blood glucose levels, it’s not a cure and doesn’t prevent side effects. If left untreated, hypoglycemia can result in unconsciousness, coma, or death in as few as twenty minutes. Diabetic Alert Dogs alert their partners in advance of an impending shift in blood glucose levels, allowing them time to take the necessary precautions or treatment to avoid dangerously low blood glucose levels. This provides a major relief, especially to the parents of children with diabetes, many of whom describe the helplessness and fear they experience trying to manage this life-threatening disease.

The success of a Diabetic Alert Dog depends upon the collaboration between EAC and the client, their medical team, and the dog.

Most of the available hypoglycemia medical alert equipment relies on accurate and continuous input from the person with diabetes, which is only effective when the person is awake, alert, and thinking clearly. In addition to human and mechanical errors, many factors can mitigate the efficacy of these tools. These range from temporary inattentiveness, such as when a person is sleeping, to medical complications, such as insulin resistance or hypoglycemic unawareness. A child’s potential inability to recognize and effectively communicate blood sugar changes can be a major stumbling block for caretakers. A Diabetic Alert Dog warns their partner under most any circumstance, including waking them in the middle of the night if necessary.

EAC specializes in the unique needs of children, teens, and families and helps their clients have the tools to be resilient and thrive, despite the adversity of managing a chronic illness. They promote a sense of family and an equitable culture that includes a diverse community where each individual feels validated, supported, and celebrated for what makes them unique. They provide ongoing training and re-certification that is crucial for long-term success. EAC is an advocate for disability rights and works to educate the community about Type 1 diabetes, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and Service Dogs. Recently, EAC has partnered with the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) in a pilot program to train COVID-19 Medical Detection Dogs.

Then, with a deep breath of trepidation, one student begins with a question. She suggests her own answer, plunging the class into our novel discussion. Eyes turn towards another student, as he responds with his own take, a polite disagreement that complicates matters for the class. A neighbor follows up, asking him to elaborate and clarify. As others eagerly join in, I listen with joy and relief. Our discussion has begun.

EAC Ricki is alerting his partner that a shift in blood glucose is impending and it’s time to take action!

for a successful partnership. Some fosters provide care for months, while others provide an occasional home.

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 spring fundraiser, Bone Appetit: A Feast for the Dogs, will be held virtually this year due to the surge in COVID cases. A fun and interactive program is planned that will be live streamed on Saturday, March 19th starting at 5:30pm PST so that anyone can join us from anywhere! Sponsorship information can be found on their website: www.EarlyAlertCanines. org. Or visit them on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn or Twitter.

This is just a quick glimpse into our classroom where discussions like the one described are imperative to student learning. Discussions help students to engage with the content and explore it on their own, allowing them to take risks. While I may have provided the book for them, they decide where to go with it. Learning becomes a thrill, not something that “the teacher made us do.” It gives them a sense of ownership as well as the ability to learn from each other. Something that their classmate pointed out might become a key feature in their essay that analyzes the book. In this way, their learning truly becomes their own.

Cultivating an environment that supports this type of inquiry is crucial and a main part of what parents consider when deciding on options for school. The reasons we can have discussions is exactly the reason why families continue to choose private education. Our small classroom size of roughly twenty students per class means each student has the time and space to breathe and participate. More than

that, since I’ve known some of their families for a few years, there’s a sense of safety in the risk of navigating controversial topics since we have shared many of the same values. After class, I continue to support them with specific feedback to encourage developing ideas and I send emails to families at home about our main topics, with hopes that the conversation continues even outside the classroom.

Even if they don’t continue elsewhere, these discussions are powerful moments, not just for the students, but also for me. It gives me a vision of hope for the continuation of the community that these students will one day lead and vote in. And on that day, the deep breath before the plunge will not be one of trepidation but one of confidence in applying what they have already learned.

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EAC maintains a small staff and relies upon the vital support of highly-skilled volunteers. Each dog-in-training requires the help of one or more foster homes that provide overnight care and reinforced training. EAC provides the necessary training, supplies and support 16

MARCH 2022

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

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Expert Contributor

“Marry Me March with Padis” is Here!

Padis is Hosting a Huge Wedding Band Faire on March 26th and Offers Advice on Wedding Band Selection

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

E

ngagement rings tend to steal the spotlight when it comes to marriage-related jewelry, but the wedding band shouldn’t be overlooked. After all, this is the only part of the wedding that you’ll be looking at every day for a very long time. We suggest thinking of a wedding band as a piece of jewelry you love while worn solo, that isn’t necessarily made to be so matchy-matchy with your engagement ring and that can potentially stack with your engagement ring and other bands down the road.

Your wedding band is not only a symbol of your love and commitment to your spouse, but it’s also a piece of jewelry you’ll wear every day. We suggest thinking about whether you gravitate toward more subtle or statement-making jewelry in your everyday life than consider your lifestyle, too. If you’re super-active, you’ll need a more durable band. If you do want stones, bezel or flush settings offer the most protection and since it’s a ring you will wear and treasure for the rest of your life, the gems or materials you select should be durable.

Fit and comfort are extremely important factors, too. Always look for style and quality, but never compromise on comfort. When a ring doesn’t fit well, it’s obvious and doesn’t look good. We also acknowledge the importance of knowing if your ring can be resized over time — if not, go up in size for something like an eternity band, which often can’t be resized. Fingers do change with time, so be sure to take the weather into account, too. With heat, we tend to swell and in cold weather, our fingers tend to shrink.

Our team at Padis Jewelry is here to help guide you in selecting a band that matches your style and lifestyle. Join us March 26th and

throughout the month of March as we host our Wedding Band Faire featuring expanded designer collections and the Bay Area’s largest and finest selection of wedding bands! We will have wedding band specialists on hand for you to connect with. Browse thousands of bands at prices too good to publish.

You can RSVP to our March 26th Wedding Band Faire by contacting us at concierge@padisjewelry.com or 415-861-5388. Mention that you saw us in this magazine and receive a special piece of jewelry as one of our neighbors!

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595 Las Lomas Way 4 Bed | Office | 4.5 Bath | 4,833+/- Sq Ft | 2.42 Acre Spectacular Panoramic Views | 4 Car Tandem Garage $3,500,000 Video Tour at 595LasLomasWay.com 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.