Mailed Directly to Northgate Residents and Published Online
MAY 2020
Northgate LIVING CA
M E E T T HE
Gilde Family: Bonded to Northgate through swim team friendships COVER PHOTO:
by Julie Cheshire Photography
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MAY 2020
Northgate LIVING CA
Publication Team Publisher: Jo Peek
Content Coordinator: Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991 Designer: Emily Lund Jo Peek
Contributing Photographer: Julie Cheshire
Advertising Contact: Jo Peek Email: JPeek@bestversionmedia.com
Feedback/Ideas/Submissions: Have feedback, ideas, or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 10th of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia. com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas, and photos to: Knavolio@bestversionmedia.com. Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2020 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.
Dear Neighbors, I hope that our May issue finds you staying healthy and gaining some new perspective. At the time of printing, we are one month into “Shelter-in-place” with no firm end in sight yet. If you are finding you have extra free time, check out the Contra Costa Library website for loads of online resources from learning a new language to learning new software applications, and read about our neighborhood’s Little Free Library (article on page 16). If you are feeling extra stress from working at home or trying to home-school your kids, there is a great article about staying healthy (by Body Love Cafe) and lots of inspiring articles from residents about how they are handling the new world we’re living in, from an impromptu home prom, to a stay-at-home mom’s new perspective on slowing down, and our local teachers putting on parades for their students. I’m always looking for articles from you, our neighbors, so please contact me at knavolio@ bestversionmedia.com with your thoughts, stories, etc. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram (NorthgateLivingCA). I’d love to hear about creative ways you celebrated Mother’s Day, Graduation, etc. under the social distancing and stay home orders. Stay well and say hello to your neighbors. We are all in this together.
Kara Navolio Content Coordinator | Resident since 1991
NORTHGATE LIVING CA 3
1401 N. BROADWAY SUITE 120 WALNUT CREEK • 925-322-8266
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walnut creek
2018 THE
WHERE YOU ARE THE TREND
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BEST of
WALNUT CREEK
MAY 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.
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
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
NORTHGATE LIVING CA 5
Resident Feature
M E E T T HE
Gilde Family: Bonded to Northgate through swim team friendships By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991
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ason and Krystal Gilde grew up together in Southern California, attending elementary, middle and high school together. They even later discovered they were born at the same hospital. But it wasn’t until senior year that they became a couple. Their relationship survived the college years, with Jason attending University of Southern California (USC) and Krystal attending Pepperdine University. The high school sweethearts married in 2008 at the Palos Verdes Country Club and have been living the happily ever after ever since.
becoming a stay-at-home mom. She received her B.S. in Psychology and a minor in Spanish. She then earned her Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology and practiced as a Family Therapist for 5 years. After her first child, she worked for BetterUp, a San Francisco startup that connects workers with certified coaches. She was able to do this work from home via phone or video chat while her daughter napped. Now Krystal is a busy mom of three and volunteers as much as possible at her kids’ school, Northcreek Academy.
After studying Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Biology at USC, Jason went on to medical school there. It was his residency program at Kaiser Permanente Oakland in Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery that brought the Southern California natives to the Bay Area in 2013. Jason is now a surgeon at Kaiser Permanente Vallejo.
They quickly found a 2nd family in Woodlands Swim Team when Addie, now 7, was old enough to join swim team. Chase, 5 years old, will start his first season on swim team soon, and Dylan, 2 ½, is a future Kermit’s Pal (intro swim team). “We joined Woodlands because of our dear friends who belong to the club and feel so thankful,” says Krystal. “Swim team is not just a sport for our children, but a family experience to bond with other families and spend quality time together at the pool! It is a place where age only matters when you are racing in the pool. Outside of the pool, our Woodlands Swim Team is one big family where lifelong friendships are built and where good sportsmanship, encouragement, and kindness are instilled. Our swim club connects us to our community and we are counting down the days until it starts up again!”
Krystal was also in the health care profession before
The couple intended to return to Southern California after Jason’s residency in Oakland. But, as Krystal says, “we fell in love with the area and how family oriented it is. With Jason working 80+ hour weeks, I was often ‘mommying’ alone, but that quickly changed after meeting the most wonderful ‘mommy friends’ that have now become an extension of our family. This community brought friendships into our lives that we are eternally grateful for. As time went on, this place that we had to move to for residency became ‘home’.”
Addie also enjoys gymnastics at Encore, dance at Dance Connection and soccer with Walnut Creek Soccer Club. She also was inspired by her neighbors, who are high school cheerleaders, to join Northgate’s Junior Bronco Cheer Clinics. Chase is active with a multi-sport program through Skyhawks Walnut Creek Rec. Dylan enjoys MyGym and Music Together. Jason and Krystal believe in inspiring their children to perform service for others. They model this through Jason’s work with the Children’s Ministry at their church, New Life in Alamo, and Krystal’s volunteering at Northcreek Academy. “Any opportunity I get, I am volunteering at Northcreek, whether it is to work centers in the classroom, yard duty on the playground,
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Addie enjoys the bonds of friendship formed through Woodlands Swim Team.
great access to things that are important to them: the kids’ school, Farmers’ Market, downtown, BART and the trails. They especially love their street and their neighbors, many who have lived there for over 20 years. And they love being so close to the Woodlands pool. “We are forever grateful for the everlasting friendships this community has brought to our family. Furthermore, we are thankful for the wonderful opportunities this community offers to our children to be a part of the swim team!” chaperone the field trips, or mark tallies for their fun run. Any chance I can, I love to volunteer and be a part of our children’s academic experience.” The Gildes love their new-found community. The location provides
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
Sheltering in Place with Preschoolers By Becky Nunez, Resident since 2018
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s a stay-at-home mom of three young kids (ages 4, 3, and almost 2), I was pretty confident that I knew each of them like the back of my hand. But the “Shelter in Place” order really put everything into perspective. My mornings, prior to the “Shelter in Place” order, were very rushed. We would go from preschool for my two oldest, to the gym, back home to walk the dog, back to school for pickup, home for lunch, and then naps for my two youngest. Everything was always “go, go, go”!
now have time to cuddle with my kids in the mornings, go on walks with them and the dog, and cook meals together. I would be lying if I said I don’t miss having my “me time”: going to the gym, getting my hair and nails done, going out for drinks and dinner with my husband and friends, or going to the city for my monthly book club MeetUp meetings. But this difficult time in our country (and world) has been a learning experience for both my kids and me, and I, for one, am enjoying this time with my family while it lasts.
For the past few weeks, I have been given the opportunity to gain a true understanding of who each of my kids are in their entireties. Through Zoom Circle Time meetings organized by their preschool, I have been able to observe how they interact with their teachers and classmates. And through homeschooling them myself, I now understand how each of them learns best and where each of them needs improvement. Even when doing crafts with them, I have learned that my 4-year-old son likes to take his creativity a step further, whereas my 3-year-old daughter likes to do exactly what is asked of her. Aside from school, no longer being constantly on the move means I
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Share your arts and crafts with us! If your kids are making something awesome while at home, we want to share it! Send your pictures to knavolio@bestversionmedia.com. We’d love to see baking creations, sculptures, poems, paintings, chalk art. Get creative and have fun! Send by May 10 for the June issue.
MAY 2020
Active Listings Address List Price 3613 Shukla Ct 100 Genoa Ct 563 Walnut Ave 3685 Vista Charonoaks 2821 Oak Grove Rd 715 Spring Dr 145 Brandywine Way
$1,700,000 $1,695,000 $1,450,000 $1,390,000 $1,349,999 $1,325,000 $1,298,000
Pending Listings Address List Price 746 Snyder Ln 720 Quail Crest Dr 1555 Sorrel Ct 3250 Wanstead Ct 3150 Cafeto Dr 513 Monmouth Ct 25 Las Lomas Pl
$1,699,000 $1,695,000 $1,550,000 $1,399,000 $1,200,000 $1,149,000 $995,000
Sold Listings Address List Price 402 Kit Fox Ct 3151 Kirby Ln 2960 Corte De Maio 2310 Quiet Pl Dr
$1,550,000 $1,399,000 $1,095,000 $1,195,000
BD 4 5 5 5 5 4 4
BD 5 4 4 4 4 4 3
BD 5 4 4 3
BT
SQFT
2.5 3 3 3 3 3 2.5
3,171 3,171 3,298 3,502 2,533 2,329 2,214
BT
SQFT
5 3.5 3.5 2.5 3 2.5 3
4,734 3,703 3,453 2,441 2,245 2,661 2,434
BT
SQFT
3 2.5 2 3
3,091 2,279 2,200 2,245
DOM 22 17 9 33 13 3 12
Real Estate Listings in Northgate 4/17/2020
DOM 33 29 12 14 4 8 3
DOM 16 7 6 1
Sold Price $1,570,000 $1,400,000 $1,225,000 $1,221,000
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
What if you could sell your home faster and for a higher price– with no upfront costs or interest? Call us to find out more about our Compass Concierge program. Rita Dhillon 925.570.1010 Rita.Dhillon@compass.com DRE 01109990 Tim Dhillon 925.570.0418 Tim.Dhillon@compass.com DRE 01521381 Khush K. 925.577.3422 Khush@compass.com DRE 01480990 www.RitaDhillonTeam.com
NORTHGATE LIVING CA 9
Northgate High School
Northgate Wrestling Completes Epic Season By Mike Wenzell, Resident since 1995
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he Northgate High School Wrestling Team recently completed its best season ever – and arguably one of the most successful sports team performances in the history of Northgate High School! The Broncos finished the season undefeated in dual meets – 13-0, winning the Diablo Athletic League Foothill Division Dual Team Championship and also claiming the North Coast Section Division 2 East Bay Dual Team Championship – for only the second time in school history. The team, led by its three captains – Cole Sanchez, Nic LeSieur and Angelo Esposito - along with a strong group of seniors, set numerous school records for the Northgate Wrestling program. In addition, some of our top performers shattered many long-standing individual school records.
Cole Sanchez
Wrestling is not an easy sport. As one would imagine, it demands physical toughness – strength, quickness, technique and conditioning. The sport also requires mental toughness and emotional resolve. Unlike most team sports – the individuality of wrestling pits one athlete against another – alone in a 30-foot circle on the mat – for six minutes. Win and you feel great. Lose and you can be devastated. There are no excuses or teammates to blame – it is all on you, the competitor. But that is the greatest thing about this sport – it is not about the winning and losing – it’s about what takes place in those six minutes. It’s the preparation, the determination, the perseverance, the conditioning, and overcoming adversity – all in an effort to succeed. These are attributes that develop character and self-esteem and are all beneficial in life. The sport teaches so much more than holds and technique – it promotes life lessons from learning about oneself. We have a saying in our wrestling room – “hard work pays off” – and this was never more evident than over the past year. We run off-season practices through our club program – the Walnut Creek Wrestling Club (for boys and girls - first grade through seniors), two days a week from March through October. This past year, we had 15-20 boys and girls in the room every week. Our in-season practices are amongst the hardest of any sport – with daily runs, sprints, intense conditioning, technique, drilling and live wrestling. To a wrestler, our kids will tell you that by the end of the season, they were in the best physical condition of their life. Over the past year – they put in the time and effort - and the work paid off.
Liv Villanueva
In addition to the hard work and success on the mat, the wrestling team had a lot of fun as well. The entire team, including most of the wrestling families, participated in a trip to Southern California over MLK weekend. We had varsity and JV tournaments on Saturday, followed by a team dinner Saturday night and a day at Disneyland / California Adventure on Sunday. It was a fantastic bonding experience for the wrestlers and their families. The Northgate Wrestling team also recognizes the importance of community involvement. Each year, over Thanksgiving, every team member contributes frozen turkeys and other food items that we donate to the Salvation Army in Concord. This past year, we donated over 300 pounds of food. Also, at Christmas time, each wrestler on the team provides gifts to teenagers that we donate to Christmas for Everyone in Martinez. It’s amazing how this “giving” is also a great bonding experience for the team. A successful season is not simply defined by wins and losses. Success is the culmination of individual progress and development, team camaraderie, hard work and respect for one another – and the buy-in and contribution of parents and coaches to make the wrestling program a “family”. We are blessed to have a fantastic coaching staff – Jake Laufer, Tim Sanchez, Tom Booth and Geoff Mettler – who give tirelessly to the kids and the program. And an absolutely awesome group of parents that helped make this season the best ever. 10
MAY 2020
Northgate Wrestling team accomplishments this season included: • First Place – Freedom Duals – going 5-0 in dual meets. • First Place – Northgate’s 12th Annual Bill Martell Invitational – we hosted 30 teams at Northgate and won the team championship with four individual champions. • First Place – Diablo Athletic League Foothill Division – 5-0. This included an extremely exciting dual meet at Northgate vs Benicia. Northgate was trailing 36-3, then rallied back to win six straight matches (five by pin) to tie the dual 36-36 – and win on the ninth tie-breaking criteria! • “Battle of the Creek” – defeated our cross-town rival, Las Lomas, 43-36 in our DAL Dual at Northgate. • First Place – NCS Division 2 East Bay Dual Team Championships. After beating rival Benicia on tie-breaking criteria only eleven days earlier, the Broncos defeated Benicia in the Championship final - 57-24, with nine pins – in one of the best team performances ever. • First Place – Diablo Athletic League Tournament – team champions of the 13-team DAL, with four individual champions – Tony Hernandez, Cole Sanchez, Angelo Esposito and Hudson Blaney. Girls DAL Champions included Liv Villanueva and Cecilia Espinoza. • 5th Place - NCS Championships (out of 100+ schools in all divisions) – the highest finish in Northgate history with 135 points (also a school record). Our four place winners included – Cole Sanchez – 1st, Angelo Esposito – 3rd, Cabot Batie – 5th and Spencer Munoz – 7th. • Three CIF State Qualifiers – the most in school history.
We also had some great individual accomplishments: • Liv Villanueva, a senior, placed 4th in the NCS Girls Championships, qualifying for the CIF State Championships – where she placed 8th – becoming only the third Northgate wrestler to ever place in the state! Liv finished her career with over 100 wins and 93 pins. • Cole Sanchez, a senior, completed an absolutely stellar career – finishing with a school record 161 wins (old record was 142), the first 4X NCS Place winner in school history, a 2020 NCS Champion (first from Northgate since 2001) and a three-time CIF State qualifier. Cole completed his senior season with a record of 49-5 and won three matches at the CIF State tournament, finishing one match short of placing in the top eight. • Nic LeSieur – set the single-season school record with 32 pins. Nic, a junior, also passed the 100-win mark for his career. • Angelo Esposito – became only the third sophomore in school history to qualify for the CIF State Championships – going 42-10 on the year and pacing 3rd at NCS.
2019-2020 Northgate Wrestling Team
Mike Wenzell is the Head Wrestling Coach at Northgate High School and also coaches the Walnut Creek Wrestling Club. If you or your son / daughter are interested in wrestling, you can contact Mike at mwenzell@yahoo.com.
NORTHGATE LIVING CA 11
Business Spotlight
Rocco’s Ristorante Pizzeria
supports health care workers caring for COVID-19 patients By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991
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occo’s Ristorante Pizzeria has been a favorite neighborhood hangout since October 1999. From causal family dinners to team parties to take-out pizza, Northgate residents have supported the local business, and Rocco Biale has, in turn, supported the community. His fund-raiser nights are a staple for any kids’ sports team or cause, and many of our teens got their first paycheck as a hostess or waiter from the eatery. Rocco is a regular contributor of baskets for school fundraisers and a venue for local musical talent.
take-out orders, but has had to cut hours for his wait staff and bartenders. Business is down significantly. “I just want to keep the restaurant breathing right now while we get through this,” said Rocco. But even amidst this crisis, Rocco still finds a way to give back to the community. Rocco is very close with his cousins in Italy. When Italy went on lockdown in late February, his cousins told him about hospital workers who were working around the clock, without time to eat and sleep, trying to take care of the sickest COVID-19 patients. This nugget of information was the catalyst that gave him an idea when the Bay Area, weeks later, was hit with our own wave of cases and shelter-in-place orders. On April 1, Rocco started delivering meals to the local health care workers on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic. Five times a day, meals are taken to John Muir Hospital and Kaiser Walnut Creek. Since Rocco’s is
But the bustling crowds on weekends and the busy lunchtimes came to a halt on March 17 when the Shelter-in-Place was ordered for the Bay Area. Rocco already has a good take-out business in place, so converting to “Take-out or Delivery” only, as many local restaurants have done, was a logical move. He was able to keep about 25 of his employees busy with
Rocco and his three adult children all work at the restaurant
not really set up for delivery, he enlisted the help of the community to take the meals to the hospitals. Within 2 days, every meal on every day of April was signed up for. “We will continue it into May if the need is still there,” added Rocco. He is grateful for this community. “Thank you for the support for the past 21 years and also during this difficult time.” Check out their website roccospizzeria.com or their Facebook page for family take-out meal specials.
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Expert Contributor
The Quarantine 15 By Dr. Brandy Zachary, DC, AFMCP with Body Love Cafe
When anxiety is high, many reach to food for comfort. For good reason, food has been associated with love for most of us throughout childhood. It’s also a better vice than many other negative behaviors such as alcohol or drug use. But even a good thing can be taken to excess. Gaining weight while stuck at home is not a surprising phenomenon and if you are experiencing it, you are not alone. Wanting to lose weight is not shallow either as this isn’t about aesthetics but more about staying healthy. Begin by addressing WHY to get to the root cause - look at what’s beneath it all: Do I not feel comforted by my family? How can I reach to my spouse for comfort instead of food? Do I fear not being able to return to work, the loss of a job or has my income been impacted? Address the underlying fear & get support. Am I afraid of getting sick? Fear of hospital care? An unwelcome reminder of our mortality or other existential issues you’re not ready to face?
• •
Hormonal issues: birth control pills, hypothyroid, excess cortisol (stress), leptin-resistant Gut health & detox issues: dysbiosis or excess of certain bacterial strains that result in an increased caloric extraction from food and lipogenesis, a decreased ability to detoxify
These issues can be managed and weight loss is available for all. So yes, you want to mitigate the weight gain while also giving yourself a lot of grace during this challenging time.
Digging into the why (with support) can provide a lot of freedom. Beyond that, here are a few things to keep in mind when initiating weight loss: • •
The timing of when you eat and the space between your meals is key Movement/exercise is great for overall health and maintaining a healthy weight, but too much exercise can hinder weight loss
If you’re a “fat burner” using ketones as your main fuel source, then having a set eating window and a high fat diet may be helpful. Very few people actually achieve nutritional ketosis - most are just adding excess calories to their meals. The keto diet can be a helpful weight loss tool for the right population and also for those with some neurological conditions. It is best to work with a professional. Most are “sugar burners” using blood glucose as their main source of fuel. That means insulin is released when you eat to shuttle fuel into your cells - therefore, you will not lose 1 pound when insulin is present. For this reason, having space between your meals (4-5 hours) is ideal. I often see patients that want to make a gradual change over time, some want a specific meal plan, and others need a “metabolic shift” to get the ball rolling in the right direction. All methods work, it just depends on what you are willing to do and what will work best for your body. For those that are weight loss resistant, the most common contributing factors I see are:
NORTHGATE LIVING CA 13
Acts of Kindness
A parade brightens up students’ day By Kristin Shopp, Resident since 2014
D
ue to the Shelter-in-Place order and the closing of schools, the Walnut Acres Elementary teachers were missing their students so they organized a “Jaguar Brigade Parade!” Led by a firetruck, the teachers in cars decorated with signs and streamers drove single file through the neighborhood, honking and waving to their students. The kids made signs and called out to their teachers as they passed by. It was such a fun and uplifting experience and many a tear was shed by the parents and teachers!
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Acts of Kindness
Valle Verde Social Distance parade brings smiles to students’ faces By Amy Liberatore, Valle Verde teacher
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teach at Valle Verde Elementary along with three other colleagues that live in the Northgate community. We started texting about creating a social distance parade after seeing some footage on social media. We each mapped out the neighborhood we lived in (Woodlands, Diablo Shadows, Northgate & Limeridge) to maximize the most families at Valle Verde. We let all the teachers and staff know about the parade and spread the news to our community. We all were so excited to see our students and families! The signs, banners, decorations and creative cheers were amazing. It was truly a community spirited event and something I will never forget. Go Vikings!
NORTHGATE LIVING CA 15
The story of my
Corona Ball 2020
Little Free Library By Kyrie Lee (age 10), Resident since 2009
By Erica Pecho, Resident since 2013
M
W
hen I was in first grade, I loved to read more than anything else. I started reading at an early age. I also loved to write stories with my best friend and laminate the pages in the school library. Then, for my seventh birthday, my mom and my grandma had somebody make me a little free library. All the kids in my first grade class put their fingers in paint and put their fingerprints on the little free library. My mom sold headbands and workout wear to raise money to buy a bench to go next to the library. In less than one week, my mom and I raised 700 dollars to buy a butterfly bench. In December of that year, my mom, sister and my neighbors made flyers to invite people to my house to see the little free library. Many of my friends and neighbors came to my house the night before Christmas Eve to see the library. My friends and I put on a play for the adults. My sister and I cut a ribbon to open the library to the community. The original library lasted for a couple more years. Later, rain and other weather destroyed the little free library. So this year, my family decided to get a new one. The new library is fire engine red and other people on the street can see it. The new library is stronger so my family and the neighborhood can enjoy it longer.
y youngest sibling is a senior at Northgate, and with the cancelling of all the special senior events, our family wanted to surprise her with our own version of a Senior Ball. We called it “Corona Ball 2020.” All four of us siblings went to Northgate, and we could not imagine her living out her Senior year without this special event. She literally had no idea, it was a full surprise! We threw it together and had lights, dinner, music, and, of course, dancing. Our entire family got dressed up in formal attire, and even some family members joined in their formal attire via Zoom. It was something we all needed to get our mind of off everything, and special memories we will remember forever were made! Erica, DJ, Fran (mom) and Stephanie celebrate their family version of Senior Ball. Brother Joey joined via Zoom.
Editor’s note: The little free library is located at 767 Buckingham Ct. and is available to all in the neighborhood to “take a book, leave a book.” There are adult books and children’s books available.
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MAY 2020
Expert Contributor
5 Ways to Create a More Functional Home while Staying in Place By Gordon Reese, Gordon Reese Design Build, Resident since 2008
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reating a more functional home helps neutralize stress. And since the lockdown, let’s face it, we need something to do with all that extra time we would have spent at restaurants and movie theaters. So, here are 5 ideas that don’t involve remodeling… 1. Office Nook Working from home takes a special kind of discipline. How do you boost productivity when you can’t even leave the house? If there isn’t space for a full office, a nook dedicated to work helps minimize distractions and separates home life from professional responsibilities. 2. Is it a Closet or a Black Hole? It’s easy for closets to turn into a black hole. It doesn’t really seem like a problem until we’re searching for something. The first step is to pull everything out and set rules for what stays and what goes. 3. Declutter With a Donation Bin And while you’re going through everything, why not start a donation bin? Decluttering is one of the fastest ways to create a more functional home.
4. Food Prep No matter what your dietary preferences are, some basic food prep can simplify your schedule. But if you just aren’t the food prep type, consider a slow cooker. Just throw all the ingredients in and walk away. 5. Your Fitness Space Working out at home means no travel time, plus you never forget your headphones. A fitness space can lead to a more functional home because movement boosts our mental and emotional health.. It’s totally fine if your “gym” is just a yoga mat and some resistance bands. We’ll all be spending a lot more time inside than usual, so make sure your space is a haven. We hope these ideas inspire you to think of other ways to make your home more functional. Should you have questions or want to discuss a virtual design session, our team is available for you. Schedule one today at 925.261.7257 or www. GordonReese.com.
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NORTHGATE LIVING CA 17
Expert Contributor
Keeping Your Jewelry Clean is Good for Your Health! By Steve Padis, Padis Jewelry and The Broadway Plaza Forevermark Boutique
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s the importance of staying healthy and germ-free continues to be a big part of our daily life, so should regular jewelry cleaning. We wear our jewelry to commemorate special memories and times – but they also can harbor the same kinds of germs we are all trying to avoid. Doing the dishes, doing household chores, and cooking dinner are all activities that could cause dirt and other daily items like lotion and hairspray to build up on your ring. How often should I clean my ring?
If you’re wearing your ring at all times, a thorough cleaning once a month is a good rule to follow – although considering the current situation, there is nothing wrong with cleaning it daily! Many jewelers will also recommend regular professional cleaning at the jeweler in between your at-home cleanings. Be sure to inquire about cleaning services when you make your purchase. Most professional cleaning services are offered at no charge, and might even be required with some warranties or insurance policies. What should I avoid when wearing my diamond ring?
Bridal jewelry, such as engagement rings and wedding bands are typically worn daily and can appear like they’ve lost their sparkle if not cleaned on a regular basis. As a general rule, avoid these things when wearing your diamond jewelry: • Putting on lotions • Using gym equipment such as dumbbells or weights • Gardening • Painting of any kind • Chlorinated pools and hot tubs • Touching diamonds with your fingers, as smudges can affect a diamond’s luster and fire Proceed with caution when using ultrasonic
cleaners, as only certain gemstones can handle the ultrasonic vibrations. It’s best to leave this type of cleaning to the professionals just to be safe. How do I clean my diamond ring at home?
You can make your own diamond cleaning solution at home using white vinegar and baking soda. Mix about 2 tablespoons into a small bowl of white vinegar until it’s thoroughly dissolved.
Join us virtually in our showrooms where you can experience hundreds of the highest quality responsibly-sourced diamonds ready to set into your designer setting...then pickup your piece with our curb-side service. Our value, pricing, and selection are unbeatable, and we’d love to help you create your piece. You can reach us anytime at concierge@ padisjewelry.com or 415-861-5388.
Follow these steps to give your ring a thorough at-home cleaning: STEP 1: Use your fingernail to inspect each jewel, making sure no stones are loose. This is especially important for rings with many small stones. STEP 2: Use a polishing cloth to polish the metal. STEP 3: Soak your ring in your homemade solution for 2-3 hours. STEP 4: Use a very soft toothbrush or a jewelry cleaning brush to gently buff. STEP 5: Rinse with warm water and pat dry. With all of this extra time at home, it’s a perfect opportunity to open up your jewelry box and give your gems a little T.L.C. At-home cleanings will give your jewelry its sparkle back. If you have questions, contact the experts at Padis Jewelry, and we will be happy to provide all the information you need to help you keep your jewelry in great shape. You can also join us virtually online and get a personalized view with our jewelry concierges! • Shop anywhere from your smart phone or laptop • Special pricing on our entire inventory
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MAY 2020
NORTHGATE LIVING CA 19
Northgate LIVING CA
The Rita Dhillon Team
What if you could sell your home faster and for a higher price– with no upfront costs or interest? Call us to find out more about our Compass Concierge program. Rita Dhillon 925.570.1010 Rita.Dhillon@compass.com DRE 01109990 Tim Dhillon 925.570.0418 Tim.Dhillon@compass.com DRE 01521381 Khush K. 925.577.3422 Khush@compass.com DRE 01480990 www.RitaDhillonTeam.com
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MAY 2020