Northgate Living CA May 2024

They are more than just partners; they are best friends. K9 police dogs and their handlers share a bond that goes beyond the badge, a bond that is forged in training, tested in action, and strengthened by trust. Recently, I had the privilege of sitting down with two members of the Walnut Creek PD’s K9 unit (K9 Unit | Walnut Creek Police Department (walnutcreekpdca.gov) to take a deeper dive into this unique deployment of law enforcement. I am grateful to Sgt Joe Coffin (Unit Supervisor) and Officer Chelsea Douglass who took time from their busy schedules to provide insight into the Walnut Creek K9 unit.

SELECTION & TRAINING

As many of us are aware, K9 police dogs are specially trained to assist law enforcement officers in various tasks, such as detecting controlled substances, tracking suspects or missing persons, apprehending criminals, and protecting their handlers. They are an asset to any police department, as they can perform duties that human officers cannot, using their keen sense of smell and hearing to detect targets.

Walnut Creek Police K9 Unit

By Frank Napoli, Resident Since 1996

The WCPD has three K9s. Officer Douglass is assigned to work with a specific dog (in this case, Timber, a five-year-old Belgian Malinois from Holland). She is responsible for the care, training, safety and deployment of her canine partner. Training is ongoing, as they rely upon each other for support and communication. They work as a team, with mutual respect and loyalty.

The training for a K9 police dog is rigorous and can take up to two to three years for a dog to become fully certified in a specific skill. Basic attributes that any agency will be looking for are bravery and obedience.

DEPLOYMENT

There are a number of situations where Officer Douglass may deploy Timber. They run from drug detection to search & rescue of missing persons, to apprehending suspects. If a fellow officer suspects drug presence while on patrol, they can request assistance from the K9 unit. At the scene a positive alert from the dog provides probable cause to search the vehicle.

Where Timber really earns his stripes are in high-risk suspect searches. A police officer is chasing a suspect who is hiding in a building and is potentially armed with a weapon. The K9 will be deployed to track the scent of the suspect. He barks to alert his handler of the suspect’s presence. In such a case Timber takes a leading role in protecting all the human officers at the scene……..truly the definition of a “first responder”.

At this critical juncture all responding officers on the scene will know how to best secure the area and be prepared to deal with the suspect.

SAFETY, WELFARE & RECORDKEEPING

Officer Douglass will regularly assess Timber’s overall health including scheduling routine veterinary check-ups as well as providing a nutritious diet. Timber routinely engages in physical exercise to maintain fitness and prevent boredom.

Officer Douglass provides a secure living space which is kept sanitized to prevent parasites. The patrol vehicle is equipped with a first aid kit in case of emergencies. Building a strong bond with the dog through positive reinforcement and allowing for downtime and relaxation contributes to the emotional well-being of the K9.

K9 handlers maintain essential records to track their dog’s training, performance, and deployments. These records are crucial for accountability, legal purposes, and ensuring the effectiveness of the K9 unit.

THE REWARD

Despite the daily challenges, a K9 police dog and its handler experience great satisfaction and reward in serving their community and making a difference in people’s lives. This comes in the form of finding a missing child, a lost senior, or catching a criminal. They get to share their affection, trust, and gratitude with each other. Where most coworkers tend to spend about 8, 10, or 12 hours a day together, the K9 unit is a 24-hour team. Finally, this team does not end when the K9 embarks on a well-deserved retirement. It continues to enjoy the same care, attention and well-being when becoming a member of the Officer’s human family.

Frank is a member of the Police Chief’s Advisory Board since Feb. 2023.

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, 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, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2024 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

Dear Neighbors,

Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms, and I hope everyone is enjoying the beautiful spring weather that has finally arrived! In this issue you will meet the Nathans, a family that has a passion for faith, food, family and wine. They are making their dreams come true here in Northgate. There are also some great stories from your neighbors that I hope you’ll enjoy.

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

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

Rita Dhillon Team

01521381

Jo Peek

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 40 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!

TILE STUDIO

BATH REMODELING STUDIO

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/

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.

Find us online NorthgateLivingCA

Meet the

Nathan Family:

A passion for faith, family, food and wine

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991 | Photos provided by Nathan family

Angelica and Michael met right after high school in Fremont, CA before they were headed off to college in 1987. Michael says, “A dozen or so friends all met at a swanky hot spot in Fremont (Burger King in Irvington). Angelica and I ordered identical items. I then turned to her and said, ‘You know what that means; it means we’re gonna get married.’ We hadn’t even officially met yet until a few minutes later when we were introduced by mutual friends.” They did not start dating, however, until 1994 after Angelica went to University in Southern California and Michael attended Stanford University.

Michael timed his proposal in Puerta Vallarta on Memorial Day just before the fireworks show, “so that way she could honestly say she saw fireworks when I proposed,” added Michael. They were married in 1998 at the Old Mission San Jose in Fremont and lived in Fremont until the summer of ‘22. They came to Walnut Creek two days after school ended and chose the Northgate area for its wonderful neighbors, scenic views of Mt. Diablo, trails, and proximity to the many great restaurants downtown and by Shadelands.

Michael was fortunate in his early career to join some of the most well-known tech companies – Cisco, NetApp, Apple, HP, and Microsoft. At Apple he was part of the team that launched the iPhone and Intel-based Mac computers. At Microsoft, he ran global partnerships between eBay, PayPal, Dropbox and Intuit. He was then recruited to join a prominent venture capital firm, Sierra Ventures, as VP of Business Development. This was all great experience to lead to his own startup Meritage.Group, a boutique strategy and advisory consultancy working with

startups, entrepreneurs, and Builders of the Future in London, Tokyo and here in Walnut Creek and the SF Bay Area. Michael adds, “This was all possible as Angelica was steady at Cisco from early 90’s until 2008, when our 3rd child, Raphael, was born, which allowed me the opportunity to try new roles and exciting companies in Silicon Valley.” Michael also has a passion for music and is a professionally endorsed percussionist (@CongaKing) and performs with his band, Meritage (@MeritageMusic). He is also an ambassador of the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce.

After Cisco, Angelica has had the opportunity to pursue her passions for food and wine. She is currently the co-winemaker, with Michael, at the family’s Nathan Family Vineyards, where they make Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a proprietary Anniversary Blend since 2022. The property has been producing wine since 2008. She was twice a Master Chef contestant and has just opened her own business, Artisan Spice Co., making handcrafted, unforgettable flavors of artisan spices - their mission is to elevate your culinary journey! (instagram: @ArtisanSpiceCo).

Michael says, “As winemakers, we make wine to share with family and friends, new and old, each glass shared lays the foundation for a new story.” They love to get together with friends and family and their wonderful neighbors around food and wine. “Food is central to the Nathan family. Everyone takes pride in their creations, from picking the menu to preparing the dishes and even customizing homemade pizzas.”

The Nathan children are all accomplished students and athletes. Natalia is a junior at Saint Mary’s College, majoring in Business with a minor in Economics and a concentration in Entrepreneurship. She is also a member of their NCAA D1 Track and Field team, running the 100M and 200M. She also swam for 12 years and was a certified Lifeguard for the city of Newark. During the pandemic, Natalia rallied the family to paint river rocks that were shared

with the neighborhood. Neighbors would come by and leave one or take one, bringing the community together during that difficult time.

Roman is a sophomore at Azuza Pacific University in southern California and is a Business Management Major. He also swam for 10 years and, along with his sister, became lifeguards for the City of Newark. He also played basketball for his high school, Irvington High, and now considers himself a retired athlete and is focused on college studies.

Raphael is 16 and a sophomore at De La Salle High School. He is the Varsity Basketball Team manager and runs varsity track. He swam for 8 years, and now spends free time shooting hoops at The Ultimate Fieldhouse in the Shadelands and plays for the Oakland Soldiers AAU Basketball Team in the Spring. His favorite dish since he was 5 is his mom’s homemade spaghetti and jumbo meatballs.

Do

The Nathans have an 8-year-old Maltese named RoccoFeller, or Rocco for short, who has snuggled his way from a rescue into their hearts. His biggest talent is his ability to fly when he really gets running!

The Nathan family has a strong faith, and God and family have always been central to them. A favorite holiday tradition is making tamales over the Christmas holiday. Before the kids went away to college, they would often spend the holiday in Huntington Beach. They also love to visit Avila Beach on the central coast. Some special family memories include a trip to Maui with Michael’s parents and a trip to Rome in 2019 with Angelica’s mom where they attended Good Friday at the Colosseum with the Pope and Easter Sunday at the Vatican.

Michael and Angelica spend lots of time cheering on their kids’ sports and rooting for the Warriors. They enjoy the beautiful neighborhood and cooking and making wine together. But most importantly, “We invite our family and friends, new and old, to share some wine and break some bread with us in the spirit of continued good health, happiness and success in all we do!”

CALENDAR OF EVENTS May

Every Monday

Free Yoga Class

@1399 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Suite 26

Behavioral Fitness PresentsAnother Living Better through Community offering- Yoga is for all of us. A beautiful way to start the week- come join our peaceful, mindful yoga on Monday mornings. This generous gift is sponsored by our local non-profit:

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 new space. Space is limited so please text or call to rsvp (925) 8188062. Mondays at 9AM.

Cost: FREE

Time: 9-10am

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

May

Charcuterie and adult beverages provided. Visit our website to register: www.GordonReese.com

Cost: Free Time: 5:45-7:30pm

Sat., May 11

Celebration of Champions Show and Auction –Walnut Creek Aquanuts

@ Clarke Swim Center, Heather Farm Park

The U.S. Olympic Artistic Swimming Team, the Aquanuts, will perform their Olympic routine. This year is historic because men are now allowed to compete in the team event at the Olympic Games in Artistic Swimming. Don’t miss an opportunity to see Olympic athletes and local Olympic hopefuls here in Walnut Creek!

Time: 5-8 pm

Tickets: www.aquanuts.org

Throughout May

Re-Discovering Native America exhibit

@Bedford Gallery, Lesher Center for the Arts

Featuring nearly 100 photographs accompanied by a selection of 3D artworks by acclaimed Native American artists, Re-Discovering Native America: Stories in Motion with The Red Road Project

highlights contemporary narratives from Indigenous individuals and communities across the country. Time: Wed.-Sun. 12-5pm

Every Thursday

Food Truck Thursdays

@Shadelands

Located in the parking lot on the west side of the Kaiser Permanente building at 370 Lennon Lane. Presented by Taste of the World, Food Truck Thursdays is open to the public. Growing in popularity among diners looking for a fast, convenient, and affordable food options with personalized service, food trucks also offer opportunities to try something different—ethnic and international foods and flavors—and to support local chefs and businesses, while enjoying an outdoor dining experience with family and friends.

Time: 11:30am-2:00pm

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:

June 1 and 2

41st Annual Art & Wine Festival

@Heather Farm Park

Enjoy a wide range of wines, craft beer, live music, food, children’s activities, art and vendor booths at Walnut Creek’s “best community event”. For more information: www.walnut-creek. com/art-wine-festival-2024/ Sat.: 11am-7pm Sun.: 11am-6pm

Sun., June 9

Classic Car Show

@Shadelands Ranch Museum

The Walnut Creek Historical Society will be hosting our second annual car show. This is an outdoor event held on the Shadelands Ranch Museum grounds. There will be fabulous cars, live music, great food, awards and a raffle. The museum will be open for tours! Ticket’s available on Eventbrite.com.

Time: 10am-3pm

Cost: Free

Real Estate Listings in Northgate

Active Listings

$1,900,000

$1,860,000

$1,695,000

Pending Listings

$2,849,000

$2,830,000

$2,198,000

$1,775,000

$1,698,900

$1,669,000

$1,450,000

Sold Listings

$2,475,000

$2,020,000

$1,936,000

$1,898,000

$1,775,000

Rita Dhillon Team

Rita Dhillon 925.570.1010 rita.dhillon@compass.com DRE 01109990

Tim Dhillon 925.570.0418 tim.dhillon@compass.com DRE 01521381

Khush Kermanizadeh 925.577.3422 khush@compass.com DRE 01480990

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:

Goose is the silliest and sweetest goober! This pocket sized princess is eager to make friends wherever she goes. Aside from being incredibly affiliative, Goose is also highly treat motivated and loves to spend time learning new tricks in exchange for a tasty snack. This girlypop cannot wait to make you giggle with her comical personality. If you are searching for a happy go lucky pup, Goose is your girl!

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

Ace loves to play! Whether it is a walk in the park or a new adventure, this dog loves to explore all the smells the world has to offer! Ace will need to be the only dog in his new home. Give this fluffy pup a home to call his own!

Bonus: Ace’s adoption fee has been sponsored by a generous admirer!

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

marketing ON TARGET?

Henny

The Skateboarding Dog

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

Over the holidays if you saw a cute dog skateboarding around the parking lot at Walnut Green pool, you were not imagining things!

Henny, a 13-year-old English Bulldog, and her dad, Ryan Lynch, were visiting Ryan’s parents, Michele and Mark Lynch, and the home he grew up in just off Arbolado Dr., across from the park.

The Lynch family moved to the Northgate neighborhood in 1986, when Ryan was just two years old. He and his brother Tysan grew up playing at Arbolado Park, swimming at the Walnut Green Pool and both graduated from Northgate High School. The Lynch family always had a pet dog. Ryan moved to Long Beach in 2005.

In 2011 Ryan, on a whim, answered an ad for bulldog puppies. He had been dating a girl who loved bulldogs. He visited the litter of 10 and one female came right over to him, climbed on him. “She basically chose me,” says Ryan. After taking the night to sleep on the decision, be returned the next day, and only that one girl pup was left. The other 9 had been adopted in a single day. “It was meant to be.” Since Ryan liked drinking Hennessey Cognac at the time, a friend suggested he call her “Henny.”

When Henny was only 10 weeks old, Ryan was walking her at Venice Beach. A skateboarder whizzed by and lost control of the board. Henny

The Lynch family

At the Walnut Green Pool parking lot with neighborhood kids

ran up to it and jumped on. She seemed to know what to do. She could even propel the board with her paw, stop the board, and pick it up in her mouth. She was a natural. Ryan is not a skateboarder himself, so he had to get Henny her own board. Her skills have grown over the years, and she loves nothing more than to be out on her board.

Since those early days Henny has become a bit of a celebrity. Ryan started teaching his friends’ dogs to skate; it eventually led the entrepreneur to start K9 Skate Academy. He is planning the first ever World K9 Skate Competition, an X-games style competition with dogs from all over the US and UK. At this event they will attempt to set a Guinness Book of World Records event: a four-dog skateboard relay in under 30 seconds. Each dog will skate for 10 meters. Henny is already in Ripley’s Believe It or Not, has been in movies, music videos, and has been a spokesdog for many products. Some of her sponsors are big names in the skate and dog worlds, and she’s been on Good Morning America, the Ellen DeGeneres Show and TMZ.

Ryan plans to make a movie of her life and also has a dream one day to eliminate animal shelters and create foster cities for abandoned pets.

Henny’s grandparents, Michele and Mark, are very proud of her and Ryan. “We are so blessed to have her in our lives,” said Michele. Watch out for skateboarding Henny next time Ryan comes home to Northgate. Or you can see her in action online at:

YouTube: Skateboard Henny

Instagram: @skateboardhenny, @k9skateacademy @worldk9sk8competition

TikTok: Skateboard Henny Website: worldk9sk8competition

From Chaos to Comfort: How Remodeling Can Bring Peace to Your Home

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

Navigating Home Remodeling: Creating a Haven for Your Family

In the dynamic world of home improvement, finding the perfect moment to embark on a remodeling journey is akin to catching a wave of opportunity. Your home should be more than just a place to live; it should be a sanctuary that nurtures and supports your family’s wellbeing. Remodeling presents an unparalleled opportunity to transform your space into a haven that seamlessly integrates functionality and comfort, whether it’s creating designated work areas for remote work or expanding communal spaces for family gatherings. An skilled remodeling team can help you design a remodel that not only meets your practical needs but also uplifts your spirits and fosters a sense of harmony and belonging, whether it’s carving out cozy nooks for relaxation, enhancing communal spaces for bonding, or integrating elements of nature for tranquility.

Embracing the Comforts of Familiarity

Amidst the uncertainties of today’s world, the familiarity and comfort of home have never been more cherished. Remodeling allows you to deepen your connection to your home by infusing it with personal touches and meaningful design elements that reflect your unique tastes and preferences. Whether it’s creating a dedicated area to display treasured mementos or incorporating elements inspired by your favorite hobbies, remodeling allows you to tailor your home to align perfectly with your lifestyle. Moreover, by updating outdated

features or optimizing your layout for better functionality, remodeling ensures that your home evolves alongside your changing needs, providing a sense of security and belonging in an ever-changing world.

Avoiding Costly Mistakes with the right Team

Investing in a team of skilled professionals is crucial to avoid making costly and timeconsuming mistakes. Designing a project you love, only to find out it’s too expensive to build or making regrettable design decisions can be avoided with the guidance of seasoned professionals. While finding the right company to work with can be challenging, great reviews, clear communication, and an understandable process are characteristics to look for in a skilled remodeling team.

Finding Joy in the Journey

While the end result of a remodeling project is undoubtedly gratifying, the journey itself can also be a source of immense joy and fulfillment. Collaborating with a highly skilled team allows you to engage in a creative process that stimulates your imagination, fosters collaboration, and ignites a sense of pride and accomplishment as you see your vision come to life. From brainstorming design ideas to selecting materials and witnessing the transformation unfold, remodeling offers an opportunity to cultivate cherished memories and forge deeper connections with your home and family.

Conclusion: Seizing the Opportunity for Emotional Well-being

In today’s uncertain times, remodeling offers more than just physical improvements; it provides a pathway to emotional well-being and fulfillment for you and your family. By partnering with the right remodeling team, you can create a home that not only meets your practical needs but also nourishes your soul and uplifts your spirits. Whether it’s enhancing comfort, fostering a sense of belonging, or finding joy in the creative process, remodeling offers an opportunity to cultivate a space that brings you and your family happiness, contentment, and peace of mind for years to come. So why wait? Seize the opportunity to transform your home into a haven of emotional well-being and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Are you ready to love your home a little more?

Visit our website, www.GordonReese.com, to register for our next remodeling seminar, May 9th, or schedule your initial consultation to learn more about achieving your remodeling goals.

Send your home improvement questions or suggestions for upcoming articles to: Questions@ GordonReese.com

Happy Remodeling!

Napa Valley's Must -Visit Restaurants

By Lisa Crossett, Resident since 2001

Napa Valley, a legendary haven for wine enthusiasts, not only tantalizes the taste buds with its world-class vineyards but also boasts an unparalleled culinary scene that rivals the excellence of its renowned grapes. Nestled in the picturesque landscapes, the restaurants of Napa Valley are more than just places to dine; they are epicurean sanctuaries that elevate the art of gastronomy to new heights.

Embark with me on an enchanting culinary odyssey, unraveling the diverse gastronomic treasures that position Napa Valley as the epicenter of epicurean delight. I am highlighting a few of my favorites along with some bucket list restaurants. The journey begins in Yountville with Bottega Napa Valley created by the late Chef Michael Chiarello, who I had the pleasure of meeting on a couple occasions. The unforgettable rustic yet elegant Italian character permeates the moment you enter. Savor the Insalatina di Cavoletti di Bruxelles, Burrata, Polenta under Glass, and the Spaghetti alla Sophia Loren, leaving room for the delectable Panna Cotta for dessert. Thomas Keller’s Ad Hoc can’t be missed, which is a casual family style menu that changes daily. They are open 4 days per week and highly recommend making a resy. Bistro Jeanty will transport you to France

with its authentic French menu and ambiance. Highly recommend the Crème de Tomate en Croute, Salade Lyonnaise, Oeufs mimosa truffes, Sole Meuniere, and the Coq au Vin.

Let’s continue the journey up Highway 29 to St. Helena, where Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch beckons the best Cheddar Biscuits with Honey Butter served in a mini cast iron skillet. Too many delicious menu items to list except I highly recommend the Deviled Eggs, Dungeness Crab Roll, and anything from the smoker. Explore Acacia House, led by acclaimed chef Chris Cosentino who won Top Chef Masters. The restaurant sits inside a stately historic house with exquisite interiors and ever evolving menu never disappoints. If you love Chardonnay, order a glass of Fisher from the Sonoma Valley. Years ago, the St. Helena outlets existed, now the parcel is Brasswood, where you can sip wine, savor culinary delights, shop, and relax. I highly encourage you to order the warm handmade mozzarella cheese with rosemary infused olive oil and homemade sourdough focaccia. It is served tableside and quite memorable.

Returning to Napa, Bistro Don Giovanni is a 30-year-old landmark and impresses with its authentic dishes. The service is top-notch. A must-try is the Olive Fritte, which is fried Spanish olives and marcona olives. Please make a reservation since it is extremely popular. Mustards Grill is an iconic restaurant from pioneer chef Cindy Pawlcyn. All the dishes are amazing, yet I always order the onion rings with Housemade tomato-apple ketchup. They are thinly sliced onions piled high and highly addictive. Angele Restaurant & Bar in downtown Napa brings the simple cuisine and inviting hospitality of the French countryside to the valley. The Classic Onion Soup, Croque Monsieur, and Macaroni & Cheese are among my favorites.

My bucket list of restaurants in the Napa Valley include Press Restaurant (St. Helena), Torc (Napa), La Toque (Napa), Compline (Napa), Tacos el Muchacho Alegre (Napa), Ciccio (Yountville), Auro (Calistoga), Joella’s Deli (Napa), The Charter Oak (St. Helena), House of Better (Calistoga), and La Taberna (Napa).

Reservations are highly recommended in this globally acclaimed food destination. Bon Appétit!

Lisa has been a Northgate resident since 2001. Professionally she is the Head of Talent Acquisition for Mechanics Bank with headquarters in Walnut Creek. She is the President of California Recruiters and on the board for 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 elegant dinner parties, explore wine country, collect wine and cook great food.

authenticsuburbangourmet.blogspot.com

authenticsuburbangourmet@gmail.com Instagram: @authenticsuburbangourmet

Northgate Sports

By Shannon Polkinghorn, Resident since 2004

Hours for dancing extended!

Cocktail Attire

For more information,visit mowdiabloregion.org/upcoming-events or contact events@mowdr.org.

Proceeds will ensure the seniors we serve receive the meals and supportive services they need to live independently, safely, and with dignity.

We kindly ask all guests to test for Covid-19 the day of the event.

Thank you to our Gala Committee members: Kathy Baker • Lise Bodine • CB Brown • Kerry Inserra Tricia King • Renee Morgan • Sherry Nadworny Bonnie Paulson • Lisa Peers • Skylar Schaefer Caitlin Sly • Kathie Thompson