

Student Spotlight: Ben Forer
By Erin Kim, Northgate High School Student
Forer, one of Northgate High School´s most successful student athletes, began playing water polo when he was only eight years old after watching his older brother play on Northgate´s team. Ben’s passion for the sport grew as he played competitively years before entering high school. By the time he was a freshman, the athlete was already achieving remarkable stats and was well on his way to play at the collegiate level.
The summer after his first high school season, Ben selected to participate in a series of tryouts to make the Men’s Cadet National Team and was ultimately chosen amongst seventy other talented players to compete in the World Championships. Ben recalls having to travel to Hungary and Croatia for intense training sessions in preparation, his most recent trip lasting twelve days. In Greece the following year, he and the Cadet Team went on to place ninth in the world and first in their division. Though he has had several international experiences, he recalls taking the Gold Medal home from the Pan American Games in Brazil to be “the most memorable yet.”

Having committed to Stanford University as a junior, much earlier than the rest of his class, Ben describes the excitement he felt upon receiving the phone call: “It took a few days to process, but once it did, it was the most amazing feeling ever.”
From here on, he will continue to foster his rising water polo career and aspires to win NCAA Championships once he starts as a Cardinal. Ben hopes to go on to play in professional leagues in Europe after college.






Publication Team
Publisher: Jo Peek
Content Coordinator: Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991
Designer: Emily Lund
Contributing Photographer: Mehak Khullar
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,

Dear Neighbors,
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.
This month we are so pleased to introduce you to the Coleman family, a family that is embracing the good life. I hope you enjoy their story and their zest for life.
We’re delighted to welcome our newest sponsor Modello Tile and Studio. They specialize in countertops and tiles but also sell ready-to-install cabinets. What’s more: they showcase every highend and premium countertop available in the Bay Area in their Walnut Creek showroom so clients can review them all at once. The owner and his wife choose their tiles individually, by hand, and in person. If you’re looking for tiles, you can’t do better than this!
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
Northgate Living CA Content Coordinator
Resident Since 1991


If you have a story, event or news to share please email me at knavolio@bestversionmedia. com. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook: NorthgateLivingCA.



Expert Contributors





Advertising - Print & Digital
Northgate Living CA
Jo Peek
925-272-8246
NorthgateLivingCA@gmail.com
www.NorthgateLivingCA.com
Auto Service
Diablo Auto Specialists
Bill Adams & Melissa Brunson
925-478-5721
1439 Autocenter Drive Walnut Creek, CA 94597
www.diabloautospecialists.com
Concierge Care Coordination
Camalin “Cam” Jones
La Casa Via Transitional Care Center 925-984-1149
camalinj@aspenhealth.com www.casaviahealth.com
Dentist
Tobian Kiefer Dentistry
Michael S Tobian, DDS & Maurissa Kiefer DDS 925-407-1155
mydentist@drtobian.com www.drtobian.com
Design, Build & Remodeling
Gordon Reese
Gordon Reese Design Build 925-477-4953
Marketing@GordonReese.com GordonReese.com
Over the last 9 years, Jo Peek has been helping local businesses, nonprofits, charities and schools connect with our community on a deeper level. She works with each client individually to customize a marketing campaign to suit their needs, timeline and budget.
Bill Adams and Melissa Brunson welcome you to your car’s service and repair shop. Diablo Auto Specialists is one of the most respected shops in the East Bay since its inception over 25 years ago by Tim Stussy. Bill and Melissa bring years of experience in the independent service and repair business and own additional stores in Castro Valley and Albany.
For over 20 years, Cam Jones has been serving the local community as a dedicated healthcare professional. She is a top patient advocate going into her tenth year in the skilled nursing and rehabilitation industry. Facilitating over 3000 patient admissions and having conducted over 900 home evaluations in the non-medical home care industry has equipped her with vast knowledge and a wide network. Cam is an expert with navigating individuals from hospital to home with a specialty dealing with healthcare insurances relative to inpatient rehabilitation facility coverage.
Dr. Michael Tobian graduated from the UCLA School of Dentistry. With over 30 years of experience, he has practiced dentistry for patients of all ages. He thoroughly enjoys the art and science of Dentistry. Dr. Maurissa Kiefer got her DDS degree from University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, in San Francisco, CA. Dr. Kiefer strives to provide her patients with comfortable, high quality care.
Gordon Reese, a seasoned Design Build professional with over 39 years of experience, is the founder of Gordon Reese Design Build. With an unwavering passion for elevating living spaces, Gordon offers homeowners a unique opportunity to transform their homes into a luxurious oasis. His team specializes in Additions, ADUs, Whole House, Kitchens, and Bathroom remodels. They are committed to delivering stressfree remodeling experiences and producing beautiful results that exceed expectations. If you are ready to turn your dream home into a reality, contact Gordon Reese Design Build today!







Hardscape Restoration
Concrete Paver Restorations
Drew Bogetti
408-828-6903
www.cprpaver.com drew@cprpaver.com
Real Estate
Rita Dhillon Compass Real Estate (925) 570-1010
Rita.Dhillon@compass.com
www.RitaDhillonTeam.com
Religious Education
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
Storage Expert
Shadelands Self Storage 925-935-6200
info@shadelandsstorage.com
https://shadelandsstorage.com/

We specialize in hardscape restoration, repairing, cleaning, sealing and staining to enhance your outdoor surfaces. We have developed state-of-the-art equipment with steam cleaning capability of 280-degrees, disinfecting and melting away years of dirt, debris, algae and moss. Our technicians are ICPI certified in paver repair, root damage, settling cracks and correcting trip hazards. “We Bring Your Hardscapes Back to Life!”
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.
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.
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.
At Shadelands Self-storage we provide peace of mind to our clients by offering a state of the art facility with video recorded surveillance and a real-time closed-circuit TV security monitoring station. In addition to our secured facilities, we have climate-controlled units, non-combustible construction and many additional features to fit your storing needs.




Colemans:
WMeet the A family embracing the good life
By Juliana Lynnelcome to the vibrant and charming world of the Colemans. The family of Brandon (51), Scarlett (10), Denton (6), and their adventurous cat “Sunshine” have been living in the Northgate neighborhood for the past three years. This neighborhood captured their hearts with its top-notch schools and the warm embrace of family and friends nearby. Sunshine, the family’s feline hero, enjoys daily escapades around the neighborhood, ensuring everything is safe and sound before returning home for his well-deserved cuddles.
Brandon was raised in San Jose by his parents, Indy (74) and Pat (69). He is a proud alumnus of UC Davis and Dominican University. For the past 21 years, Brandon has been a cornerstone of the John Muir Hospital family, currently working in the Cath Lab. His life mantra, “Loyalty,” is not just a word but a legacy he’s passing down to Scarlett and Denton.
Speaking of family, Indy and Pat are the epitome of cool grandparents. Now enjoying their golden years, they love spending time with their

grandkids. Indy’s free time is about fun with Scarlett and Denton, while Pat, the busy bee, still dabbles in contracting. Their love for travel is infectious – last year, it was Israel, and this year, they’re heading to the emerald landscapes of Ireland. And let’s not forget those unforgettable trips with the grandkids to Hawaii and Jamaica!
Scarlett, our young dynamo, is making waves in Club Vibe’s volleyball team, Wildfire. She’s not just an athlete; she’s a leader and a star at Walnut Acres, juggling student council duties, contributing to the school newspaper, and shining bright as Simba in the Curtains Up Youth Theatre’s production of “The Lion King.” Denton, her charming younger brother, is following in her footsteps at Walnut Acres and is geared to hit home runs in the Walnut Creek Little League.
It’s not just the kids who are sports aficionados – this family lives and breathes sports! Whether cheering for the Forty-Niners, rooting for the SF Giants, or getting competitive during the Super Bowl, Spring Training, and March Madness, they know how to have a good time. “The Trophy” won during March Madness isn’t just a prize; it’s a symbol of fun, family, and friendship.
Their love for celebration extends beyond sports. Picture this: friends, family, and co-workers coming together for amazing weekends filled with laughter, fireworks on the Fourth of July and New Year’s, and indulging in those unique family recipes every Thanksgiving.
Let’s not forget the epic movie nights every Friday. Brandon, the family’s tech wizard, has created a home theater that’s nothing short of a cinematic paradise, and the kids are absolutely thrilled.


To wrap this up, here are some fun tidbits: Great-Grandma Maxine lived a remarkable century, and Brandon is a DIY maestro with a knack for sprucing up homes and cars. Say hello to these fairly new neighbors, the Colemans, when you see them around town!








Joybound Looking for Love
By Cole Kuiper, Joybound (Formerly ARF)
Adopt a new best friend at Joybound People & Pets (formerly the Animal Rescue Foundation) in Walnut Creek! View available dogs and cats online or visit Joybound in-person: Monday-Sunday, 12-6 pm. Our team is excited to guide you in choosing a pet, share information about their history and behavior, and provide helpful resources.
Here are a couple of our adorable animals looking for love:

Two-year-old Lilac is a gentle, kind-hearted canine. She carries herself with regality and grace. Her playful nature and unwavering affection are sure to brighten your world! Lilac is content to go out on the town for leisurely strolls or lounge around the home for some quality family bonding. If you are looking for an intelligent dog with as much beauty on the inside as on the outside, Lilac is your gal.
Joybound adoption fees:
• $150 for an adult dog
• $375 for a puppy (<6 months)
• $75 for a special-needs dog
• $200 for a special-needs puppy (<6 months)
• $75 for a senior dog (7+ years)
• Adoption fees waived for US military Veterans

One-year-old Jamie is super easygoing with an affectionate personality, making him an ideal companion for those seeking a young, loving and relaxed feline friend. His elegance and charm is sure to light up your household.
Joybound adoption fees:
• $100 for an adult cat
• $175 for a kitten (<6 months)
• $50 for a special-needs cat
• $100 for a special-needs kitten (<6 months)
• $50 for a senior cat (7+ years)
• Adoption fees waived for US military Veteranss







CALENDAR OF EVENTS March
Mar. 1-2. 7-9
Musical America
@Northgate High School Little Theatre Northgate’s Choral Music Program presents its yearly production of group and individual singers to entertain us all.
Time: 6:30-9pm
Every Monday
Free Yoga Class
@Arbolado Park or indoors if inclement weather
Behavioral Fitness Presents- Another Living Better through Community offering- Yoga is for all of us. A beautiful way to start the week- come join our peaceful, mindful yoga in Arbolado Park (next to upper parking lot) on Monday mornings at 9 AM. This generous gift is sponsored by our local nonprofit: Providing Easier Access to Care Everywhere: PEACE (501 3c). Much more than physical fitness it includes social, emotional, and environmental wellness too. Meet your neighbors and invite a friend. All levels will find their place in this gentle and inspiring time in our beautiful Arbolado Park. Text us for updates on meeting locations for rainy/ cold mornings. Space may be limited during rainy- indoor days. Monday at 9AM (3/4, 3/11, 3/18, 3/25). For more information and rainy day location updates text or call (925) 818-8062.
Cost: Free
Time: 9-10am
Through April 2
California Clay Exhibit
@Bedford Gallery, Lesher Center for the Arts
Dedicated to all things fired, California Clay presents a survey of California artists working in clay. In response to the recent ceramics renaissance in the contemporary art world, California Clay features an intriguing mix of functional and aesthetic works that highlight the versatility of the medium, and celebrate ceramics as both functional and fine art, showcasing the talent and creativity of contemporary ceramicists.
Cost: Pay what you can
Time: Gallery open from Wed. – Sun., 12-5pm, excluding holidays
Sat., March 16
Family Art Day
@Shadelands Art Center, 111 N. Wiget Ln. Join us for a day of art making and learning about spring celebrations around the world! We’ll be celebrating Nowruz, Purim, Holi, St. Patrick’s Day, and Kodomo no Hi (Children’s Day) through the arts! This is a free event for children and families.
Time: 10am-1pm
Mon., Mar. 25
All Ears Reading
@Ygnacio Valley Library Reading aloud is one of the best ways to improve reading skills. It is even more fun when you have a furry friend. With All Ears Reading, children can improve their core reading skills in a relaxed nonjudgmental environment with a dog from ARF’s Pet Hug Pack. These 15-minute sessions begin at 3:00pm and last until 5:00pm. Register online to get your spot today. Perfect for children in grades 1-5.
Tues., Mar. 26
Senior Living Options
@Community Arts Auditorium, 111 N. Wiget Ln.
Senior Living isn’t a one size fits all, and finding the right place to age in place is essential for your on-going well-being. We will present what senior living truly means, as well and where and when to start looking. Once you know what’s out there, we’ll take an overview on how to floorplan your spaces so you can thrive and enjoy this new place called home. Register here: https:// www.walnutcreekartsrec.org/ Home/Components/Calendar/ Event/16840/1767?npage=3
Time: 10:30-11:30am
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
@Shadelands Business Park
Farmers bring their best from the nearby farming areas, kid’s craft corner, live music.
Time: 9am-1pm
www.cafarmersmkts.com/ diablo-valley-farmers-market
Save the date:
Fri., April 26th & Sun., April 28th
H.M.S. Pinafore - Act One
@ Contra Costa School of Performing Arts
Join the students of CoCoSPA’s Vocal Department for an evening of jokes and laughter as they present Act One of Gilbert & Sullivan’s “H.M.S. Pinafore”.
Cost: $18 Adult; $15 Senior/ Military; $10 Youth/Student
Time: (4/26) at 7:00pm & (4/28) at 5:00pm
Thurs., May 9
Master Your Remodel
@Gordon Reese Design Build, 3021 Citrus Circle, Suite 170
Join our exclusive seminar and learn how to avoid:
Designing a project that is too expensive to build Making regretful design decisions
Choosing the wrong contractor
Charcuterie and adult beverages provided. Visit our website to register: www.GordonReese.com
Cost: Free Time: 5:45-7:30

The Remodeling Mistakes That Could Cost You Thousands!
By Gordon Reese, Gordon Reese Design Build, Resident since 2008Embarking on a home remodeling journey is exhilarating, yet caution is key to avoid pitfalls that can turn dreams into financial nightmares. Drawing from years of experience, I guide you through potential missteps homeowners often make.
Ignoring the Importance of Planning
The key to achieving your remodeling goals lies in a design-led approach. Avoid the dismay of investing energy into a dream project, only to later realize it’s financially impractical. Strategize, define clear goals, establish a realistic budget, and collaborate with a skilled team that will provide accurate pricing guidance during design.
Underestimating the True Costs
A common mistake is underestimating overall costs. Focusing solely on the initial budget neglects hidden expenses. Account for unforeseen issues, material price fluctuations, and structural challenges. A comprehensive budget, including a contingency fund, prevents financial strain.
Choosing the Wrong Contractor
Selecting the right contractor is pivotal. Opting for seemingly affordable choices may seem tempting but can result in hidden costs like sleepless nights over quality concerns and project uncertainties. Investing in an experienced design-build firm, though pricier initially, ensures peace of mind and a smoother remodeling journey.
Neglecting Permits and Regulations
Skipping permits might seem like a shortcut but leads to costly consequences. Adhering to local regulations ensures safety, structural integrity, and community standards compliance. Failing to obtain permits can result in fines, delays, and forced removal of completed work.
Overlooking Energy Efficiency
In the rush for visual appeal, energyefficient upgrades are often overlooked. Investing in such upgrades not only reduces environmental impact but leads to significant utility bill savings. Choose sustainable options aligned with your design aesthetic for a beautiful and ecofriendly home.
Not Factoring in Lifestyle Changes
Consider potential future lifestyle changes during planning. Failure to account for shifts may lead to a space becoming obsolete sooner than anticipated. Plan for flexibility, opting for designs adaptable to changing needs.
Sacrificing Quality for Cost
Cutting costs by sacrificing material and workmanship quality is a longterm mistake. Low-quality materials wear out quickly, requiring premature replacements. Invest in durable materials and skilled professionals for a remodel that withstands the test of time.
Rushing the Decision-Making Process
Impulsive decision-making can lead to regrets and costly changes. Carefully


consider design choices, material selections, and layout options. Patience and thoughtful consideration are crucial for a remodel that reflects your vision.
In conclusion, while the allure of a beautifully renovated home is undeniable, avoiding common remodeling mistakes is crucial for success. Investing time in planning, selecting the right professionals, and staying mindful of potential pitfalls ensures a remodel that enhances your home without breaking the bank. A well-executed remodel not only enhances your overall living experience but also enhances your overall living experience.
Are you ready to love your home a little more?
Visit our website, www.GordonReese.com, to register for our remodeling seminars or schedule your initial consultation. Let’s start remodeling your dream home today!
Send your home improvement questions or suggestions for upcoming articles to: Questions@GordonReese.com
Happy Remodeling!

Treasures abound at Trader Joe’s
By Lisa Crossett, Resident since 2001Trader Joe’s (TJ’s), a haven for culinary exploration, boasts an impressive array of distinctive, predominantly private label products that seamlessly blend tastiness, affordability, and a commitment to healthier options. With a network of 547 stores spanning the United States and territories, it has become a neighborhood grocery gem, with only 7 states yet to join the Trader Joe’s family.
Stepping into a Trader Joe’s is not just a shopping trip; it’s an adventure. The store exudes a witty vibe, creating a sense of community that is further enriched by authentic and engaging customer service. The shopping experience is akin to embarking on a gastronomic journey, from the captivating wall of cheeses to the enticing frozen appetizer case, and even the vibrant displays of fresh flowers - Trader Joe’s presents a visual feast for the eyes and a delightful array of treats for the taste buds.
Now, let’s dive into some personal favorites and a few insider tips.
Seasonal Mousse Cakes: If you like traditional Petit Fours, you will adore these. Currently TJ’s has a raspberry flavored mousse with white sponge cake. I believe Easter Egg inspired cakes will be arriving next.
Lavash Bread: These make wonderful flatbread pizzas. Most recently I coated it with pasta sauce, thinly sliced onion and red bell peppers, pepper jack cheese and prosciutto.
Roasted Hatch Chili & Jalapeno Cheese Dip with Olive Fougasse: This is a great weekend kickoff appetizer. I place the dip into a mini cast iron pan to heat and toast some olive fougasse as the vehicle to scoop up the spicy dip.
Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups: Once you try these, you may never buy a Reece’s peanut butter cup again.
Riced Cauliflower: This is a great substitute for rice. You can kick it up by adding diced onions, garlic, red bell peppers, salt, pepper, and sumac.
British Style Crumpets with TJ’s Lemon Curd: Toast the crumpets then spread the lemon curd on top to transport yourself to afternoon tea in London.
Sri Lankan Organic Mango Chutney: I love to add this to the top of my turkey loaf.
Organic Chicken Stock: This stock is full of flavor and extremely well priced. I use it for all my homemade soups. Quick tip - to elevate your soups and add a umami component, add a parmesan rind to your soup.
Shawarma Chicken Thighs: This wonderfully seasoned chicken is perfect for tacos when cooked on the grill, then chopped into small pieces.
Spaghetti Cacio E Pepe: TJ’s frozen pasta dishes are tasty and this one transports you to Italy in under 5 minutes. To kick it up, add a touch of nutmeg and parmesan cheese to kick it up.
Pita Bite Crackers: Our Friday night charcuterie boards often have these light, crunchy, savory crackers adorning the board.

Is



Egg Frittata with Swiss Cheese & Cauliflower: If you like the frittata at Peet’s Coffee, you will love these.
Parmesan Pastry Pups: I like to describe these as fancy pigs in a blanket.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dunkers: The secret ingredient in these “hard to eat just one” cookie is a hint of coconut.
Toffee Chips: If you like See’s Molasses Chips, you will love these. The See’s version is $15.00, and TJ’s is $3.69.
French Vanilla Ice Cream Super Premium: This ice cream is supreme. If you love malt, I highly encourage you to add a spoonful as a mix in.
Candied Pecans: These are perfect in a bowl for a cocktail party or simply eating out of the bag.
Zhoug Sauce: It is a Middle Eastern pesto that is great on top of roasted salmon, grilled chicken, or an embellishment to hummus.
French Bordeaux Wines: I love a good “Wednesday Wine” and recently discovered that there are great choices (mostly under $10.00) at Trader Joe’s.

a board member
Community Arts Foundation based in Walnut Creek. Lisa’s passion is Food, Wine and Entertaining. She publishes a food blog called Authentic Suburban Gourmet and loves to throw dinner parties, explore wine country, collect wine, and cook great food.
www.authenticsuburbangourmet.blogspot.com authenticsuburbangourmet@gmail.com Instagram: @authenticsuburbangourmet






Boundary Oak Men’s Golf Club Tournament
By Shannon Polkinghorn, Resident since 2004Nestled into our own hills here in Northgate is one of the top rated public golf courses in Northern California. Voted by the East Bay Times as the best golf course in the San Francisco East Bay in 2022 lies Boundary Oak Golf Course. In addition to being a beautiful course, it is also home to the Walnut Creek Men’s Golf Club. The Club, founded over 30 years ago, boasts over 300 members and is open to men, women and juniors. A new season is just beginning!
The WCMGC hosts a bevy of tournaments throughout the year culminating in the allimportant President’s Cup. To qualify, members accrue points in the various tournaments throughout the year and the top 24 receive an invitation to play in the coveted two-day President’s Cup tournament. Those 24 golfers are then divided into two teams similar to the PGA’s Ryder Cup – Team Oaks and Team Walnuts – and play for the prized President’s Cup. This year’s President’s Cup was held the weekend of January 20/21, and Team Walnuts took home the trophy this year!
For more information on the beautiful Boundary Oak Golf Course and/or the Walnut Creek Men’s Golf Club you can visit www.playboundaryoak.com or call (925) 934-4775.















