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Mailed Directly to Northgate Residents and Published Online

MAY 2021

Northgate LIVING CA

Meet the Hockels: “Love and serve God, family and community” Photo by Julie Cheshire Photography

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MAY 2021

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NORTHGATE LIVING CA 3

Dear Neighbors, Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms, and I hope everyone is enjoying the beautiful spring weather.

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. © 2021 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

In this issue you will meet the Hockels, a family with deep roots in the Northgate area as well as a local business. There are online and in person events to check out in our calendar, news from Mt. Diablo Unified School District on school reopening, articles from resilient Northgate High School students, and some great expert articles. I’m eager to hear from you and share your stories whether you have gardening or book tips, an adorable pet, an interesting adventure to share, a hobby, a recipe, a charity you’re involved with, or any other topic you think the Northgate neighbors would like to hear more about. I’m also looking for families to feature each month on the front cover. I believe that interesting stories don’t just come from celebrities, but from our own communities. Everyone has a story to tell, and I’d love it if you’d let me tell yours. Send your articles and photos to knavolio@bestversionmedia.com. Connect with us on Facebook or Instagram and visit us online at www.northgatelivingCA.com. Warmly,

Kara Navolio Northgate Living CA Content Coordinator Resident Since 1991

Find us online NorthgateLivingCA www.NorthgateLivingCA.com

Rita Dhillon Team

#1 Northgate Realtor *Total Sales Volume from 2000-2020

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

MAY 2021

Expert Contributors

To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Jo Peek at jpeek@bestversionmedia.com.

Dentist

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

Design, Build & Remodeling

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!

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

Here at Concrete Paver Restoration we specialize in hardscape restoration, repairing, cleaning, sealing & staining and enhancing your outdoor surfaces. I have been in this industry for 20 years on the paver manufacturing and contracting side. I have traveled the country researching the best practices and commercial grade ECO-friendly products. 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. Whether it’s root damage, settling, or trip hazards, we can fix it! Our proprietary sealer is a two-part commercial grade polyurethane sealer that is mixed specifically for every job. C.P.R. is a certified applicator of this commercial grade product with this Manufacturer and cannot be purchased by the public. We offer a guarantee on our craftsmanship on every job. Whether you have root damage or settling cracks, we can bring your hardscape back to life. Please contact me today for a free estimate. “We Bring Your Hardscape’s Back To Life!”

Insurance Services

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

Jewelry, Diamonds & Timepieces

Steve and Judy Padis own and operate Padis Jewelry, which has four locations in the San Francisco Bay Area. They founded the company in 1974 and are proud to have earned a reputation as one of the finest jewelers in San Francisco, serving generations of clients for their most precious moments in life, from engagement to anniversary to milestone gifts. Padis Jewelry maintains top-tier relationships with the most sought-after designers including Tacori, Forevermark, Verragio, Breitling, Tag Heuer, and Roberto Coin. As members of the American Gem Society, Padis is among the top 5% of jewelers across the country.

Life Dental & Orthodontics Brian J. Hockel, DDS 925-357-3630 admin@lifedentalortho.com www.lifedentalortho.com Gordon Reese Gordon Reese Design Build (925) 885-3770 Marketing@GordonReese.com GordonReese.com Element Wealth Management Chris J. Held, CFP®, CRPS® CA Insurance #0E56816 (925) 433-9533 chris.held@elementwm.com www.elementwm.com Body Love 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

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

Landscaping

Vic Cvijanovic Pacific Landscaping 925-938-1777 vic@pacificscapes.com www.pacificscapes.com

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

Real Estate

Rita has been a Northgate resident and selling neighborhood properties for over 25 years. She’s received numerous awards including being nominated as Realtor of the Year by the East Bay Business Times, previously ranked the #64 Realtor in America by the Wall Street Journal/REAL Trends, previously ranked the #1 Realtor in Contra Costa County, and ranked the #1 Realtor in Northgate for total sales volume over many years.

Reverse Mortgages

Annemarie’s been a reverse mortgage specialist for 6+ years. She grew up in Walnut Creek and graduated from Carondelet High School. She is a travel enthusiast and unapologetic foodie, including knowing the profound effect a great cup of coffee or a smooth glass of wine can have. She’s passionate about the changes this product brings about in her clients’ lives and ensures they feel important, safe and honored.

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.

Rita Dhillon Compass Real Estate (925) 570-1010 Rita.Dhillon@compass.com www.RitaDhillonTeam.com Open Mortgage Annemarie Drosos 530-736-2295 annemariedrosos@openmortgage.com https://openmortgage.com/annemarie-drosos John Traverso Traverso Tree Service (925) 930-7901 traversotree@gmail.com www.traversotree.com

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 5

Resident Feature

Five Hockel sons have been involved with Civil Air Patrol

Meet the Hockels: “Love and serve God, family and community” By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991 | Photo by Julie Cheshire

rian Hockel has spent almost his entire life right here in the Northgate neighborhood. He grew up, from the age of 3, in a home on Encina Corte (where his parents still live), as a child he rode a BMX bike on the land graded for houses in the Diablo Shadow neighborhood before there were houses there and spent his allowance at the Encina Grande Shopping Center. As a teen he worked at Encina Bikes and for the Gourmet Shop Delicatessen (at the location which is now Bagel Street Café). He joined his father’s local business as a dentist, raised his family of 11 children here, and now lives in the Diablo Shadows neighborhood with his wife, Beth, and their three youngest children. Brian and Beth met in 1988 while Brian was attending UCSF School of Dentistry and Beth was earning a Master’s degree at Stanford University. As church and faith have always been a big part of their lives, it’s no surprise they met at a church activity and married at St. Margaret Mary Church in Oakland, where Beth sang in the choir. Beth, who grew up in New York and Rhode Island, earned her Master’s in Electrical Engineering from Stanford. She used her advanced training to homeschool many of her 11 children. “You have to be pretty organized to handle as many as eight grade levels at the same time!” she laughed. In addition, Beth has directed a children’s choir through the Homeschooling group and also at Cathedral of Christ the Light in Oakland. The Hockels are parishioners at St. Francis of Assisi, just down Oak Grove Rd. in Concord where Brian attended grades 1-8. Beth joined Brian’s business in 1990, helping out at the front desk as needed until 2017 when she took on the role of Business Office Manager.

Brian graduated from De La Salle High School in 1979. He attended USF and then UCSF, earning his DDS degree in 1989 and went into practice with his father, Jack, at the Hockel Dental office next door to the Ygnacio Valley Library. The elder Dr. Hockel and his wife, Judie, raised their six children in a home adjacent to that office on Oak Grove Rd. The Drs. Hockel practiced together for 12 years until Jack retired and Brian took over the practice. In addition to Beth, Brian’s brother Steve and sister Barbara also work at the family business, now named Life Dental & Orthodontics. Brian and his brothers also have a band together named “The Automatics,” which has played semi-regularly at Rocco’s Ristorante and Pizzeria. “It’s always great to play music with my brothers,” comments Brian. “We enjoy covering rock classics from the Beatles to present day.” Growing up, many of the Hockel offspring took part in the Scottsdale Swim Team, just as Brian and his siblings had in the 1970’s. The seven oldest kids would walk to Encina Grande for lessons at Sparta Tae Kwon Do, and several played baseball for Walnut Creek Little League and JOBL in Concord. Five of the boys have been very active with Squadron 44 of the Civil Air Patrol, based at the Buchanan Field in Concord. The four oldest Hockel children are launched into careers and lives of their own. Rez, 29, is an artist and caregiver in Denver, CO. John, 27, is a computer engineer at a cyber security firm in Syracuse, NY. Bernadette, 26, now married, is a Montessori teacher in Portland, OR, and Claire, 25, teaches English in Seoul, Korea.

MAY 2021

Four children are in college. James, 23, is finishing his law degree at Georgetown. The other three are at Benedictine College in Kansas. Peter, 21, is a senior and will soon be commissioning as a US Air Force officer. Andrew, 20, is a sophomore pre-dental student, and Matthew, 18, is a freshman considering a career in law enforcement. The three remaining children are at home. Mark, 16, is a junior in high school. He helps at the dental office after school and has plans to earn his private pilot’s license. Mary, 14, is a freshman at Northgate High School where she is also a member of the swim team, and Monica, 13, attends Foothill Middle School. All three of the younger children enjoy playing foosball together.

The entire Hockel family on a cruise right before the pandemic hit

All of the Hockels, except Peter, are huge Giants fans and have fond memories of attending epic games together. Peter is an A’s fan! And it was no small feat to bring all 13 Hockels together for a cruise to the Bahamas in February 2020, just before the pandemic hit. They also enjoy annual trips to Tahoe where they stay in a cabin built by Brian’s grandfather in the 1950’s. With the pandemic, the Hockel’s favorite activity has become family bike rides. Through it all, they believe, “Don’t take what we have for granted; stay grateful.” There is much to be grateful for in this beautiful place the Hockels have called home for a long time.

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.

Brian’s band plays at Rocco’s

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 7

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MAY 2021

Active Listings Address List Price 1686 Sorrel Dr $2,795,000 2754 Venado Camino $2,388,000 756 Lisboa Ct $1,900,000

Pending Listings Address

List Price

451 Silver Hollow Dr $1,998,000 821 Bertram St $1,850,000 2673 Snyder Ct $1,679,000 3169 Cafeto Dr $1,425,000 3305 Deerpark Dr $1,399,000 300 Fenway Dr $1,375,000 127 Bexley Pl $1,349,000 236 Los Cerros Ave $1,325,000 236 Encina Corte $1,299,999 250 Las Lomas Way $1,298,000

Sold Listings Address

Sold Price

3728 Shadowbrook Ct 244 Corte De La Reina 3485 Valley Vista Rd 937 Quiet Pl Ct 411 Sutcliffe Pl 1060 Crystal Ct

$2,300,000 $2,220,000 $1,650,000 $1,610,000 $1,600,000 $1,550,000

Real Estate

Real Estate is proudly sponsored by The Rita Dhillon Team

BD 5 6 4

BD 5 4 5 4 5 4 4 4 5 4

BD 3 5 4 4 4 3

SQFT

4.5 4 2.5

5,196 4,468 2,606

SQFT

4.5 3 3 2 3.5 2 3 2 3 3

3,762 3,503 3,057 2,133 2,679 2,504 2,453 2,021 2,253 2,245

SQFT

3 3 2.5 2 2 3

3,210 3,205 2,164 2,149 2,319 2,532

DOM 14 7 16

Real Estate DOM Listings 4 6 in 7 8 Northgate 6 4 5 5 6 6

4/10/2021

DOM 1 7 6 9 6 6

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

Rita Dhillon Team

#1 Northgate Realtor *Total Sales Volume from 2000-2020

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 9

May Fri., May 14

Family Movie Night in the Park – Inside Out

@ Civic Park Socially distanced in Civic Park, families will enjoy an outdoor movie experience. After young Riley is uprooted from her Midwest life and moved to San Francisco, her emotions - Joy, Fear, Anger, Disgust and Sadness - conflict on how best to navigate a new city, house, and school. Registration includes a goodie bag with sweet treats, 2 mini-flashlights, 6 glow sticks, a surprise activity and registration of up to 6 individuals in your household family. Bring a blanket to sit on, low lawn chairs and any additional snacks you want. Space is limited to comply with distancing requirements. Rain cancels event. Movie starts promptly at 8:00pm. Registration ends on May12. https://www.walnut-creek.org/ departments/arts-andrecreation/arts-rec-open-now/ holiday-events-with-arts-rec Cost: $25 per family of 6 Time: 8:00 pm

Sun., May 23 Animals on Broadway @Virtual Event Animals on Broadway (AOB) is an annual

CALENDAR OF EVENTS opportunity to gather the whole family — including your pet — to save lives, virtually! Register today as an individual or start forming your team with friends or co-workers to help ARF raise lifesaving funds for animals in need. Funds raised at Animals on Broadway support ARF’s many life-changing programs to enhance the human-animal bond including rescue and adoptions, mobile clinic services for lowincome populations, disaster relief, Pets and Vets, and more. Be a champion for pets in need by fundraising virtually! Fundraise as an individual or team to help ARF raise $100,000 to rescue even more dogs and cats. More information here: https://arflife.org/

Thurs., May 27 Virtual Remodeling Seminar @online Are you, a neighbor, a family member, or a friend looking to remodel, and just don’t know where or how to get started? How do I get started? •How do I make sure that the construction costs don’t exceed my budget? • How do I make design decisions I won’t regret later? • How do I choose the right contractor? How do I avoid an ugly court battle? • What is a mechanic’s lien and how do I protect myself? • How do I make sure my remodel gets completed on schedule?

RSVP Now: GORDONREESE.COMor call (925) 885-3770 today! Cost: Free Time: 6-8pm

Throughout May Exhibit: A Beautiful Mess-Weavers and Knotters of the Vanguard

@ Bedford Gallery/online Bedford Gallery is thrilled to announce our exhibition A Beautiful Mess: Weavers & Knotters of the Vanguard. While the gallery is still closed and awaits county guidelines on reopening, the show will open virtually on bgviewingroom.org . Watch for possible re-opening date for in person viewing. From micro artworks the size of your hand to mammoth room-sized installations, the national roster of women artists in A Beautiful Mess push the boundaries of their textile-based medium. https://www. bedfordgallery.org/exhibitions/on-view 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

Featuring Special Outdoor Japanese Ikebana Exhibit

Charity Spotlight

AAUW Evening Stroll in the Ruth Bancroft Gardens Submitted by Linda Jimerson, AAUW DanvilleAlamo-Walnut Creek

“Artscapes in the Garden”

May 21, 5:30 – 6:30 pm

The Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek Branch of the American Association of University Women in partnership with the world famous Ruth Bancroft Gardens, Walnut Creek are hosting ‘AAUW Evening Stroll.” Join in a stroll through 3.5 acres of exceptional waterconserving, cutting-edge-designed gardens. This event supports Local Scholarships for Women.

Tickets are $40 and include: • • • • •

Self-guided tour brochure with map and current blooms descriptions Party favor packets for each attendee. Courtesy on-site parking Garden basket raffle opportunity Refreshments available based on then-current County Guidelines thanks to event sponsor.

Order your tickets through our website at https://daw-ca.aauw.net/ bancroft/ or purchase at East Bay Flower Company (cash or check only) in the Danville Livery 10

MAY 2021

Expert Contributor A Family Owned Business

Why Work With An Independent Insurance Agent? By Patrick Decker & Scott Decker, Crusberg-Decker Insurance Services, Inc.

Services Provided:

Interior & Exterior Painting Deck/Fence Staining Popcorn Ceiling Removal Refinish Cabinets Texturing Walls

oday there are several ways to purchase insurance. It boils down to three main distribution channels for insurance companies to sell their products: Direct writers (or captive agents) are employees

Fernando Hernandez Marissa Hernandez

925-437-8302

xaspainting@yahoo.com LIC# 1063171

of a single insurance company. Consumers who choose to work with a direct writer are not guaranteed the best choice available from the entire market. Direct writers can offer a range of products, from homeowners to umbrella to health insurance, all from the single insurance company they represent.

Online and self directed channels have

become popular as buying preferences change. Some companies have given consumers the ability to purchase coverage online. However, insurance policies are legal contracts, and this channel is best suited for those consumers with a proficient knowledge of insurance. Independent agents are licensed experts

who work with multiple insurance companies, rather than only one. They can quickly research multiple policies and rates across various companies for no added fees. As insurance experts, independent agents can help you understand the complex nature of insurance and provide helpful policy reviews on a regular basis. Independent agents are an advocate for you – not the insurance company. Crusberg-Decker is your local independent East Bay Agency; our owners live and work in Walnut Creek. We represent over a dozen national and regional insurance companies – all “A” or better rated and all California admitted. We are a family owned - 4th generation business that works hard to earn your trust and develop long term relationships. Crusberg-Decker Insurance Services, DOI License #0D91080

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 11

Northgate High School

Unrelenting Spirit By Prapti Pradhan and Harshada Sharma, Northgate High School Students

mong the rapid changes occurring in our community, the greatest change within the last month is Contra Costa County’s entrance into the orange tier! This progression has brought forth many exciting opportunities, the most thrilling of these being the hybrid return of students on campus at Northgate High School. The new schedule allows for students to choose between a two-hour block class on campus, or online, twice a week. Interactions between peers and teachers, which was once impossible due to the pandemic, now ring out across campus. The reopening of our campus in a hybrid dynamic also permits sports teams to begin their seasons. Students who participate in Football, Dance, Cheer, Cross Country, Sports Medicine, and many more may have had their season cut short, but were still able to make lifelong memories with their teammates. Northgate’s campus teems with applications for classes, while ASB officer election buzz fills the air. Officer positions in Leadership, National Honors Society, California Scholarship

Federation, and many more are available during this time of the year. Students can apply to be a Link Crew leader for the chance to guide freshmen through their first year of high school or audition for performing arts classes such as Northgate’s Choirs and Drama classes. With the swift arrival of AP tests in May, Northgate students have begun to prepare! Many tests are in a digital format, while others will be taken in person. The challenges that this year has presented have not caused the excellent work ethic of Northgate students to waver. We wish them the best of luck! As preparations amongst the freshman, sophomores, and juniors begin for the 2021-2022 school year, Northgate has not forgotten about its seniors! The class of 2021 may have been robbed of many opportunities to make memories within the last year, but ASB Leadership is coming to the rescue by hosting senior-centered activities on the 21st of every month to help make the most of the short time they have remaining on our campus. Continuing our service projects to help those

who are less fortunate, the Leadership class hosted a Homeless Shelter Drive in which over 500 items were donated. These items were donated to the Bay Area Rescue Mission in hopes of providing some members of our community with items they may be in need of. Make sure you keep an eye out for any Leadership-hosted fundraisers in the near future; these will be the last few before the end of the school year! As our school year comes to an end, we reflect on some of our most memorable moments in online school, and eagerly look forward to what we have waiting for us in the next year. We may have not been able to take the long way across the school to say “hi” to our friends, nor were we able to laugh until our stomachs hurt at the lunch tables. However, that same Northgate spirit that led us to have all kinds of fun on campus is not diminished just because we are at home. Northgate High School’s unrelenting passion to make the best out of every situation has shone through in the smallest of situations, whether that be a giggle over Zoom when someone goofs off on their screen, or even the small conversations we have using the chat feature. Northgate High students, thank you for all of the memories this year; we cannot wait to see you back on campus next year!

MAY 2021

Northgate High School

Motivation During the Pandemic By Skyler Santiago, Northgate High School Senior, Resident since 2003

otivation is defined as the reason or reasons one has for acting or behaving in a certain way. Motivation is a driving factor for our actions and also calibrates the level of intensity that we exert for such actions. Each one of us has different motivations, and as part of my senior project at Northgate High School, I want to identify what motivates the young adults in my community and how the pandemic affected these motivations. And aside from knowing these motivations, I hope to also be able to dig deeper and understand what the young adults in my community value most in their lives. I conducted a survey with over 30 young adults who currently attend Northgate High School. My survey simply asked what motivates them and why, and how the pandemic affected their motivations. What I learned is that young adults who I surveyed revealed two common motivations, to do well in school and to do well in athletics. In addition, they also shared that these motivations have not changed at all during the pandemic. The pandemic changed how they act and behave, but the motivations remain the same. Doing well in school is an understandable and reasonable motivation for young adults and for students in general. For the high schoolers I surveyed, they value which college they will be attending after graduating from high school. According to them, getting into competitive colleges requires a good academic resume. The pressure to do well in school can sometimes come intrinsically from themselves or from their family. As Donovan Henry (17) explained, “As I see it, the pressure from my family to perform well also drives me since I don’t want to put their support to waste… The pressure I describe is a healthy relationship by letting me stay on track with school and also allow me to pursue other interests that I am motivated in.”

Athletics is a big part of the lives of the youths in our community, so I am not surprised to find out that the drive to do well in it is a motivation commonly shared by the young adults I surveyed. Caroline Welch (18) talked about her drive to perform well in lacrosse and soccer, “I wanted to show that I belonged on the team and was not the weakest link.” Aside from valuing teamwork and competition, most have also connected sports involvement with valuing their overall physical fitness. During the pandemic, the motivations above have not changed. However, certain efficiencies were introduced because of the additional time that has been made available for not physically going to school. In the case of Sarthika Chimmula (17), the additional time allowed her to execute on both motivations more efficiently. According to her, “Now, I have more time to do my homework before tennis practice, which overall increases my drive to play better”. Sarah Santiago (16) also stated that “Not physically going to school allows me to be motivated to pull all-nighters studying and not having to worry about waking up early the next day.” I think positive motivations, such as the ones discussed above, are very important. They provide us with a sense of purpose and accomplishment. For young adults, these motivations can serve as helpful templates for more challenges that lay ahead of them. And even during tough times, such as the current pandemic, these motivations can serve as a compass that can navigate them through rough waters. These motivations are reflections of one’s values, so being centered in them can provide some semblance of purpose and normalcy during difficult times.

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NORTHGATE LIVING CA 13

Expert Contributor

Fresh Home Remodeling Ideas For Spring By Gordon Reese, Gordon Reese Design Build, Resident since 2008

any of us have never felt more desperate for a fresh start and a new beginning. Luckily, spring is here. Since we’re all spending lots of time in our homes lately, what better way to invoke the fresh feeling of spring than to bring it into our home.

or nickel finishes in matte or brushed textures. Other top trends include radiant heated flooring, bidets, self-closing lids, and leak detection hardware. Keep the bathroom looking fresh and airy by using neutral colors and earth tones.

The Kitchen

Likely because we’re spending so much time at home, you may find yourself increasingly interested in closing off those wide-open spaces that were once so coveted. Delineated spaces allow for a variety of different sensory experiences to be contained under one roof. And defined areas means personal space to relax and recharge.

Especially during the pandemic, the kitchen has solidified itself as the heart of the home and has emerged as an important multitasking room, as well. To bring springtime freshness to the kitchen, consider minimalist styles with touches of organic and natural materials. Embrace pops of green or opt for the classic all-white kitchen. Alternatively, try incorporating some wooden elements to add some natural character.

The Home Office Working from the kitchen table was kind of cute when you thought you would be doing it for only a few weeks. But now? Not so much. That’s why this Spring 2021 (and beyond), home offices will be more critical than ever. Make sure this is a space that is calming and comfortable. Incorporate sleek technological elements to keep the look minimalistic.

Bathrooms Tastemakers love large, freestanding showers with zero-clearance entry, linear drains, hands-free faucets, and black

Clearly Delineated Spaces home improvement project today by calling us at 925.261.7257.

Outdoor Entertaining What better way to bring springtime to your home than to bring the indoors outside? Extend your living space outdoors by constructing an outdoor oasis perfect for entertaining, dining, or grabbing some solo time to connect with nature. Opt for a patio, deck, or an outdoor kitchen to make the most of your outdoor space and extend the utility and comfort of your home. The right design-build remodeling company will help you to achieve the space you’ve been dreaming about. Gordon Reese Design Build is here to help. We have many online resources. Our experts are always available to talk to those looking to invest in their homes. Kickstart your

MAY 2021

Expert Contributor

Reverse Mortgage 101 By Annemarie Drosos, Open Mortgage

ountless joys come with retirement. The freedom to use your time as you choose opens up infinite possibilities. Variables in regular income can place a few bumps in the road, but a reverse mortgage is one option that can help you gain financial security as you transition into retirement.

Reverse Mortgage 101:

A reverse mortgage allows homeowners ages 62 and up to withdraw equity from their home and turn it into “cash”. The great thing about a reverse mortgage is the proceeds are generally tax-free; consumers should consult a tax advisor. The lender will collect the cost of the loan at the point in which you no longer inhabit the house. Depending on the situation, you or your heir can sell the house to pay off the loan amount, the deed can be transferred to the loan company, or a new mortgage can be taken out on the home. Borrowers and Heirs of borrowers are protected if the house sells for less than the cost of the loan because the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) doesn’t allow lenders to come after borrowers or their heirs for the difference, and this won’t hurt your credit score.

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conversion mortgages (HECM) counselor approved by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Home meets all FHA property standards and flood requirements.

Most loan officers typically issue reverse mortgages as home equity conversion mortgages (HECMs), which are insured by the Federal Housing Administration. HECMs come with rigorous financing guidelines and a loan limit. I work with HECM and Jumbo Proprietary loans and specialize in helping retirees acquire the knowledge and confidence to transition into financial stability. If you’re interested in learning more about HECM, reverse mortgages, or have any questions that need answering, please contact me today! Annemarie Drosos / NMLS # 1197293 / NMLS #1025108 / 1801 N. California Blvd. Suite 106, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 / 530-736-2295 / Open Mortgage, LLC NMLS #2975 / Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight Under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act, #4170030 / www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org / Equal Housing Opportunity

How to use a reverse mortgage?

A reverse mortgage is a flexible loan, and it can be broken down into a plan that works best for your lifestyle. Most people use a reverse mortgage for: • • • • • •

Living expenses Medical costs Home renovations Helping kids with college Debt consolidation Purchasing a new home.

There are two main types of reverse mortgages:

1. Fixed-rate reverse mortgages consist of a one-time lump sum payment. 2. Adjustable-rates have different payment options to adapt to your current needs.

Who qualifies for a reverse mortgage?

Although getting a reverse mortgage could relieve you of your monthly mortgage payment, you must maintain your property as your primary residence, keep property taxes and homeowners insurance current as well as homeowners association dues/fees (if applicable), keep up household maintenance, and other related costs.

To be considered for a reverse mortgage, you need to: • • •

Be 62 years of age or older. Be free of delinquent federal debts Obtain the mandatory consultation with a home equity NORTHGATE LIVING CA 15

Our Schools

MDUSD School Campuses

Open to Students In Person By Cherise Khaund, MDUSD School Board President, Resident since 2012, and Michelle Alas, Resident since 2005

ello Northgate neighborhood, from your MDUSD school board President, Cherise Khaund and student school board member, Michelle Alas. Cherise is in her 3rd year on the Board and Michelle is a Northgate high student who is finishing out her term as the first ever official student school board member of MDUSD. Cherise is also a parent of MDUSD middle school and high school students.

Foothill Middle School Foothill’s in-person schedule focused on hands-on opportunities that can’t be done over zoom… everything from art to woodworking:

March and April have been a flurry of activity as school site staff and teachers implemented the new hybrid schedule, providing additional student support and enrichment both for students who returned to campus in-person and for those who chose to remain 100% distance learning. We’re happy to share with you some of the joy and smiles of students returning in person to our school campuses! Northgate High School Sports are back! Go Broncos! Walnut Acres Elementary Walnut Acres staff showed team spirit & creativity, organizing the whole school by color cohorts. Organization is essential at this school with record numbers of students who chose in-person learning. Go Jaguars!

Congratulations to Northgate students Elyse, Jonathan, John, and Erin for winning prizes at the Contra Costa County Science Fair!

Thanks to our community for working together to keep COVID numbers low. Stay tuned for more details on both summer school opportunities and the return to full time in person school this fall. For more information: Find Superintendent Dr. Clark’s weekly updates at https://mdusd.org/superintendent Read Cherise Khaund’s blog: https://www. cherisekhaund.com/ Follow Michelle Alas on Twitter @ michelle_alas13

Valle Verde Elementary It was all hands on deck preparing classrooms at Valle Verde, with spacing, PPE and welcome signs! And every school enhanced learning for distance learners too. Here are twin Valle Verde “zoomers” enjoying their enrichment!

MAY 2021

Expert Contributor

Facing MENOPAUSE? Key symptoms & Hormone Replacement Therapy By Dr. Brandy Zachary, DC, IFMCP with Body Love Cafe, Northgate resident since 2019

ENOPAUSE is the point at which a woman is past her childbearing years and her menstrual cycle has stopped for 12 months. The transition leading up to this is called PERIMENOPAUSE and can take a few months or up to a decade! Symptoms of Menopause: • Irregular menses • Hot flashes, night sweats • Insomnia/sleep issues • Vaginal dryness, dry skin • Weight gain/slowed metabolism • Mood changes/anxiety • Hair loss. thinning • Bone loss • Thyroid/adrenal hormone issues The 4 key lifestyle changes you can make to have a smooth transition include: 1. Blood sugar balancing (this includes regular meal spacing without snacking and not feeling “shaky, extreme hunger or anger” before the next meal) 2. Healthy weight for your body with some physical movement daily 3. Regular sleep cycle (see our “sleep hygiene” article for more tips) 4. Address stress & adrenal issues

What we do know is that you want to avoid taking estrogen by itself “unopposed” (particularly synthetic estrogen) and avoid progestins in all forms (synthetic progesterone). There are many bioidentical hormones options to choose from including topicals and creams. The lowest dose necessary is always ideal. One more item to consider as our medical understanding of SNPs (“genetic error codes”) expands is the significance of having the COMT SNP. For women who have this genetic marker, it means that not only will you have difficulty clearing your stress hormones (leading to higher prevalence of anxiety) but you will also have difficulty clearing estrogen, and that means a higher risk of estrogen cancers (particularly when exposed to estrogen over an extended time period). It can be helpful to know if you have this marker and if yes, there are many options to either support the clearance of estrogen or use other menopausal symptom support. Questions? Contact us by calling (925) 788-6300 or emailing Team@BodyLoveCafe.com.

Once your ovaries are no longer producing estrogen, it becomes even more important that your adrenals are “in good shape” as this will be your main source of estrogen. For those that have been living a life of “pedal to the metal” this can be problematic. This is part of why women facing peri-/menopause living a life with constant high cortisol production will produce excess belly fat. Not only is that an impact of high cortisol, but fat is a source of estrogen. What to do if you are concerned about peri-/menopause or facing uncomfortable symptoms? The first step is to get some reliable testing. The best test is the DUTCH test which demonstrates estrogen, testosterone, progesterone (& how estrogen is metabolized) along with cortisol, DHEA, and melatonin. It is a simple urine test performed at home. Our office is an expert at reading this lab, we also teach other physicians how to use it. Once you know exactly what is going on, there are a host of natural options or bioidentical hormone therapies to consider. For those considering or currently using Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) there has been much issue over safety for years. It can be protective for some cancers and risky for others. Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 17

Expert Contributor

The Bay Area’s Largest Tacori Event is Coming Up in May! By Steve Padis, Padis Jewelry and The Forevermark Boutique at Broadway Plaza

ark your calendar for the weekend of May 21-24 for the Padis Spring Tacori Event. The Tacori brand, first popularized by the engagement ring designs featured on The Bachelor television series, specializes in engagement rings and fine jewelry for the modern bride. With the San Francisco Bay Area’s largest collections of Tacori, Padis Jewelry is ready to help make every proposal extra special with handcrafted rings from one of today’s hottest designers. As a fellow family-owned business based in California, Padis Jewelry takes special pride in being a Diamond Partner with Tacori; one of just a handful of Tacori’s such partners in the world. Handcrafted in California, Tacori’s remarkably detailed rings and fine jewelry pieces become timeless symbols of connection that join individuals and generations, especially so when paired with Padis Jewelry’s diamonds as centerpieces. Every facet of these dramatically beautiful pieces reflects the passion the Tacorian family has for creating beautiful heirlooms, meant to be treasured for generations. This extra attention to detail, personal craftsmanship, and stunning beauty, which transforms each Tacori design into a unique work of art, is known as the Tacori Touch. The Tacori legacy began with Haig Tacorian, who left Europe in 1969 to start a new life in the United States. In California, Haig and his wife, Gilda, devoted themselves to creating fine jewelry with a unique and distinctive European flair. Today, Haig is still the patriarch of the company, and is aided by his son, Paul, and daughter, Nadine, as well as several other Tacorian family membersall proudly carrying on the family tradition of passion, quality, attention to detail and personal client care. Each of the Padis Jewelry locations features an exclusive Tacori boutique, where you can browse the largest collection of Tacori designs in California, including all of the designer’s freshest styles, in both bridal and fashion jewelry. Be sure to join us for our Tacori Spring Event May 21st through the 24th at our Napa and San Francisco locations to peruse the largest selection of Tacori

and diamonds while enjoying champagne and hors d’oevres; the perfect way to select your next heirloom. Shoppers can examine and try on any Tacori piece in person before making a decision on their one-of-a-kind treasure. For those looking for reasonably priced bridal sets, make sure to ask about special pricing, flexible payment plans as well as interest-free financing. In addition to seeing Tacori’s esteemed collection, Padis will also offer exclusive pricing for those who attend the May event. Customers can anticipate special Tacori gifts with their purchase, as well as engagement ring and diamond package deals that will last through the weekend. To participate in all of the savings taking place that weekend, call the Padis Jewelry team at (415) or concierge@padisjewelry.com to set up an appointment.

MAY 2021

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 19