Issuu

Mailed Directly to Northgate Residents and Published Online

NOVEMBER 2020

Northgate LIVING CA

Meet the Pajers: Embracing Life to the Fullest Photo by Julie Cheshire Photography

NOVEMBER 2020

We Won!

Thank you! Have Questions? Get Answers! FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

Immune Support Nutrition & Weight IBS & Gut Health Hormone Health Thyroid Health Heart Health ADHD & Mood Issues

WEEKLY FOOD DELIVERY

925-788-6300

Team@BodyLoveCafe.com

Free 15-min consultation VIRTUAL VISITS, SHIP SUPPLEMENTS, LAB TESTS

Table of Contents Letter to Residents

Expert Contributors List

Meet the Pajers: Embracing Life to the Fullest

ARF Adoption Stars

Real Estate Statistics

Calendar of Events

Our Mission

What Does An Ideal Bathroom Remodel Entail? Expert Contributor

California COVID Diaries Little Free Libraries Popping Up

One-Stop Holiday Shopping

Get the most out of your swimming pool investment

Expert Contributor

Walnut Creek Downtown Business Assoc. Supports Local Businesses

Cover Article

Pet Adoption Corner

Charity Spotlight

Non Profit Spotlight

Yam Bam Cake Recipe

Anger + Anxiety and 10 Steps to Sanity

Giving Back

Cosmetic Surgery in the Awake Patient

Turkey Trot goes Virtual

Expert Contributor

Nonprofit Spotlight

State Resources For Emergency Preparedness Community Safety

The Art of the Stack Expert Contributor

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 3

Dear Neighbors, Publication Team Publisher: Jo Peek

Content Coordinator: Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991 Designer: Emily Lund Jo Peek

Contributing Photographer: Julie Cheshire

Advertising Contact: Jo Peek Email: JPeek@bestversionmedia.com

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.

It’s the season of giving thanks and giving back, and we’re thrilled to be getting into the spirit. For starters, we try to always feature Northgate residents practicing kindness and the work many do to help nonprofits in our community. Be sure to read about ways you can support our community and local businesses who are struggling due to the pandemic. In a year marked by more downs than ups, I truly hope that each and every one of you, my neighbors, has found reasons to smile. I am thankful for those that opened their homes and shared their families with me and our community this year and for those neighbors that read our magazine each month and support our local businesses. And to our businesses, thank you for allowing us to create this good news magazine. Our feature residents this month, the Pajer family, are embracing life to the fullest. Be sure to read their story and see how they’ve adapted to a shelter in place lifestyle. Thank you for reading our magazine and Happy Thanksgiving to all! We are devoted to sharing stories, events and news among our neighbors in this wonderful community. If you have a story, event or news to share, please email me at knavolio@ bestversionmedia.com. Warmly,

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.

Kara Navolio Northgate Living CA Content Coordinator Resident Since 1991

NOVEMBER 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. Brandy Zachary, DC, AFMCP 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.”

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.

Landscaping

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.”

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

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

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 5

Resident Feature

Resident Feature is proudly sponsored by Veritas Plastic Surgery

unity,” says Tracy. After college, Justin moved to San Francisco, working in medical sales, and found his passion with triathlon and the Golden Gate Triathlon Club. He traveled extensively during this time visiting 35 countries. As an aspiring triathlete, he completed the Escape from Alcatraz triathlon. Tracy moved back to the west coast, and in 2005 their paths crossed again. They believe that timing is everything, and finally, the perfect time was right to start a relationship. In 2007, they were married in San Francisco and moved to Austin, Texas for Justin’s MBA program at the University of Austin, Texas. The Pajers have two children, Claire and William, who are energetic and creative. With Shelter-in-Place, the family spends more time riding bikes together, hanging out at their neighbor’s pool, or snuggling up watching a movie on Friday nights together. While they miss weekend soccer games and gatherings, the Pajer family has a tradition of nightly dance parties in the kitchen to lighten the mood. This past summer, they spent three weeks in Southern California to be closer to Tracy’s mom as she underwent chemotherapy to fight breast cancer. They looked for the silver lining and viewed this challenging time as a beautiful gift of quality time together.

Flying over the Grand Canyon

Meet the Pajers: Embracing Life to the Fullest By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

ustin and Tracy Pajer were brought to Walnut Creek 11 years ago by Justin’s work with Chevron. Prior to that they had lived in and traveled to many different places and still love taking adventures together. They are embracing life to the fullest and pass on this spirit to their two children. Justin, a Colorado native, and Tracy, who grew up Southern California, met when they were just 20 and 18 years old, respectively. He was a sophomore at the University of Colorado, Boulder, a roommate and fraternity brother to Tracy’s brother Kevin. Tracy met Justin for the first time when she visited the campus on a college tour as a high school senior. Tracy attended the University of Colorado as well, and the two remained just friends for ten years. Both are proud alumni from the University of Colorado, Boulder, where Justin has an undergraduate bachelor’s degree in Economics, and Tracy has bachelor’s degrees in Communications and Dance. Tracy was a varsity cheerleader for the University of Colorado Buffaloes, and then followed her passion east and danced with some of the best in New York City. She lived there during the September 11 attacks. “It was a very scary time, but the New Yorkers bonded together in

Tracy is self-employed as a Leadership and Life Coach at Tracy Pajer Coaching and a Fellow Coach at BetterUp. She is the Education Coordinator for the Walnut Creek Dream Team, Business Networking International chapter. Justin works for Chevron as the Advisor to the President, based in San Ramon. He has volunteered for three years as a Walnut Creek Soccer Club recreational program coach, teaching himself how to play, teach, and coach the game. Both Tracy and Justin are fitness enthusiasts. With Shelterin-Place they have adjusted their workout schedules and create time together from 6-7 am to workout. Justin is an avid road cyclist and would love to attend the Tour de France someday. He also enjoys nighttime biking with a group of Rancho San Miguel swim team dads and looks forward to returning to his CrossFit classes once it’s safe. He can also be found cruising around in his bright Sunburst Orange Jeep, which was his late father’s pride and joy. Tracy runs the hills in Shell Ridge, feeling solace in our beautiful open space even more since the pandemic. She also enjoys indoor cycling, strength training, and yoga to decompress. She looks forward to returning as a group fitness instructor at the Walnut Creek Crunch Gym to teach her favorite class, Buff Yoga. She volunteered at the Co-chair and Creator of the Walnut Acres Walk-aThon Fundraiser, inspiring the students to train, set personal goals, and have fun moving their bodies. Over three years, this event raised $93,000 for the school to improve their physical education program and also pay for teacher assistants. Two years ago, the Pajer children moved to The Seven Hills School. Claire, 10, is an arts and crafts enthusiast, most recently building a 250 popsicle stick house with a

NOVEMBER 2020

ronco Junior B Claire at ing camp d Cheerlea

William, 7, is a Lego fanatic and selfproclaimed master builder. And, like the rest of his family, enjoys being outside as well as quiet time. His favorite activities are mountain biking, baseball, karate, and swimming for RSM. He can be found reading a good book during quieter times, baking, or helping his mom with the vegetable garden.

This active family also loves adventurous vacations, with family trips including a hot air balloon ride over Sedona, a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon, snowboarding, and skiing in Tahoe and Colorado, and hiking and fishing in Yosemite. For the past five summers, they have enjoyed family vacations to Jackson Hole, Wyoming, where they have participated in all of nature’s gifts. Since college, Justin and Tracy have been skiing together and it is now their family sport. Both kids learned to ski when they were just three years old. “After both of our fathers passed,” says Tracy, “We decided not to let the grass grow under our feet and we do our best to walk our talk each and every day.”

William loves mou ntain biking

The Pajers love family ski vacations

working light inside. She also takes after her parents’ active lifestyle with competitive soccer, the Scrap Yard Dogs Softball team (AAA Champions in 2019), and swimming for Rancho San Miguel Swim Team (RSM).

But the Pajer family also loves coming home to Northgate. “We love hosting small parties and gathering people together, which we have greatly missed since COVID,” adds Tracy. “We have lucked out with our immediate neighbors and have a social distance happy hour on Thursday evenings with them… We are grateful for such kind and thoughtful neighbors.” As the Pajers moved into their second Northgate home last month, their “forever home,” they are looking forward to making new friends in the neighborhood.

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

Pet Corner

Rosemary

ARF Adoption Stars Submitted by ARF

Stitch

Looking for a furry friend during this trying time? Good news — ARF is now offering a no-contact virtual adoption process! If you see an animal you’re interested in on our website, just fill out an online inquiry form. Once your inquiry has been received, you will be added to our virtual adoption queue.

Three-year-old Rosemary is a happy, friendly gal that loves to talk, race around and play! This energetic gal requires large spaces to run around and prefers not to be cooped up. She is looking for an active adopter who will give her the chance to let out some energy and find some great places to hike. Rosemary would enjoy the chance to experience some adventure! The adoption fee for puppies (<6 months) is $350, for adult dogs is $250, and senior dogs (7+ years) and special needs dogs are 50% off the adoption fee.

Meet your forever friend at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: Noon to 6 pm Wednesday & Thursday, Noon to 7 pm Friday, and Noon to 6 pm Saturday & Sunday. Would you like to be part of the heroic team that saves the lives of rescued dogs and cats? Can you share your talents to connect people and animals? ARF volunteers are making a difference! For more information see our website, www.arflife.org, or call (925) 256-1ARF.

Six-month-old Stitch is a sweet young fellow who is looking for a quiet low-key forever home where he’ll have time to adjust to a new environment as well as different people. Once he develops his confidence, he’s a very friendly guy who loves being petted. He’s hoping that his new home has lots of toys for him to play with and some sunny windows he can settle next to for some serious sunbathing. Stitch has several vertebrae in his lower lumbar spine which are abnormal, causing an awkward gait. He can jump, run, and use the litter box despite this. The adoption fee for kittens (<6 months) is $150, for adult cats is $100, $25 off each for multiple cats/kittens, and senior cats (7+ years) and special needs cats are 50% off the adoption fee.

Picture Perfect Pool Service inc.

■ Monthly Pool Service ■ Repair and Installation ■ Pool and Spa Remodel

925-370-6675

■ New Construction ■ 3D Designs ■ Pool Inspections

Visit our website: www.pppsinc.com

NOVEMBER 2020

Active Listings Address List Price 3739 Shadowbrook Ct $3,500,000 1111 Codorniz Ln $3,250,000 139 Brodia Way $2,799,000 575 Pine Creek Rd $1,875,000 432 Grand Oak Ct $1,598,000

Pending Listings Address

List Price

2484 Deer Valley Ln 4135 Arbolado Dr 828 Foxtail Ct 290 Firestone Dr 120 Brandywine Way 639 Filbert Ct 2925 Grande Corte 3101 Deerpark Dr

$1,824,000 $1,839,000 $1,689,000 $1,500,000 $1,375,000 $1,250,000 $1,249,000 $1,229,000

Sold Listings Address List Price 3716 Northgate Woods Ct 3715 Rancho Estates Ct 26 Kerley Ct 85 Meadow Walk Pl 2659 Cassandra Ct

$2,999,000 $2,890,000 $2,349,888 $1,950,000 $1,850,000

Real Estate

Real Estate is proudly sponsored by The Rita Dhillon Team

BD 5 6 5 6 4

BD 4 5 5 7 4 4 3 5

BD 4 4 4 4 4

SQFT

4.5 4.5 6 4 3

5,222 6,833 6,150 3,074 3,555

SQFT

3 3.5 3 3.5 3 3 2 2

4,507 3,842 3,121 3,522 2,969 2,245 1,655 2,358

SQFT

4.5 4.5 3 3.5 3.5

5,143 4,223 3,453 3,396 3,786

DOM 65 1 56 1 34

Real Estate Listings in Northgate 10/18/2020

DOM 99 1 38 41 7 7 14 23

DOM

Sold Price

78 8 19 1 9

$3,000,000 $2,900,000 $2,400,000 $1,950,000 $1,885,000

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

#1 Northgate Realtor *Total Sales Volume in 2019

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

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 9

November CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Everyday

Self-Guided Downtown Heritage Walk @Downtown Walnut Creek Walnut Creek residents and visitors can explore Walnut Creek’s fascinating heritage through a free self-guided cellphone walking tour that allows you to visit downtown heritage sites on your own schedule and at your own pace. The Heritage Walk is part of “Walk Walnut Creek: Art and History Live Here,” an immersive self-guided tour that tells the stories that shaped Walnut Creek’s history and describes the public art that graces the current city landscape. Check out Walk Walnut Creek. Each site is marked with prominent, colorful signage on downtown street lamp posts. The signs include pertinent information about the site and details on how to listen to the audio and, for those with smart phones, how to access a mobile app. Cost: FREE www.wchistory.org/ events/historical-tours/

Every Week

Behaviorally Fit Backyards @Arbolado Park Join your neighbors and create community at these events. All are welcome for a nominal charge. Every Wed. 4:30-5:30pm – Teens discussing what matters Every Thurs. 8:30-9:30am – Yoga under the trees Every Thurs. 9:4510:45am – Parent Support/ community group Every Saturday 9:00 – 10:00am – Body Sculpting under the trees

Throughout November

Bird, Nest, Nature Exhibit @Bedford Gallery Bird, Nest, Nature is a juried and invitational exhibition featuring a roster of local, national and international artists. Birds have long captured the attention of humankind, the earliest evidence of which can be found in cave drawings that reflect all that we cherish in nature from flora to fauna. This exhibition was juried by Jeffrey De Blois, Assistant Curator, ICA Boston and Rebecca Lowery, Assistant Curator, MOCA Los Angeles, and includes over 150 artists inspired by the exquisite beauty of creatures of flight. Face covering and social distancing required. Tickets must be purchased in advance to control the number of people allowed inside. Cost: $5 Time: 12-5pm www.bedfordgallery.org/ exhibitions/on-view

Public Art Walking Tour @Downtown Walnut Creek There is now a self-guided audio tour available for Public Art in Walnut Creek, featuring 33 stops about the artwork in the downtown area. Look for the pink and orange Public Art signs around town, located by artworks. Dial the number on the signs to hear about that artwork. You can visit the Public Art Walking Tour web app online at walkwc.oncell.com/en/ public-art-tours-102961.html

Thurs., Nov. 19

member, or a friend looking to remodel, and just don’t know where or how to get started? Do you have questions like: • 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? Join us and get your questions answered. RSVP required at gordonreese.com. Cost: Free Time: 6-8pm https://gordonreese.com/ remodeling-seminar or call (925) 885-3770 today!

Do your holiday shopping locally for beautiful handmade gifts and delicious food items. Benefits the Walnut Creek Historical Society. Social distancing and masks required. Time: 10am-4pm daily www.wchistory.org

Sat., Nov. 28

Small Business Saturday @Local Businesses This is a nationally promoted event that encourages shoppers to support small businesses. American Express rewards their customers for purchases on their American Express card at any small business on this day. https://www.americanexpress. com/us/small-business/ shop-small/

Every Monday Nov. 20 – Dec. 20 (Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings)

Garden of d’Lights @Ruth Bancroft Garden Experience the Ruth Bancroft Garden in a whole new way at this year’s Garden of d’Lights. With more lights and more lasers, this year’s Garden of d’Lights is set to be better than ever. Guests of all ages are in for a holiday treat as they meander through the Garden’s 3.5 acres of mature cacti, succulents and trees that are transformed into magical colorful botanical sculptures by thousands of lights. Don’t miss this special opportunity to enjoy the holiday season safely outdoors in the Garden of d’Lights! Timed tickets by reservation only @5:30, 6:30 or 7:30 pm. Masks required. Cost: $20 adults, $10 children 6-15, free for children 5 and under Ruthbancroftgarden.org

Virtual Remodeling Seminar

Nov. 28 – Dec. 13

@The comfort of your own home Are you, a neighbor, a family

@Shadelands Ranch Museum

Book- Talk it Up @online Get great book recommendations by library staff as they share their adult and teen favorites with you. Cost: FREE Time: 1-1:15pm https://facebook.com/ WalnutCreekLibraryCCCL/

Every Tuesday and 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-5pm www.castlerockfarmstand. com

Every Tuesday and Thursday

On-line story time @online See our favorite storytellers create impromptu story times every Tuesday and Thursday Time: 10am www.ccclib.org

Holiday Faire

NOVEMBER 2020

Our Mission Learn - about our neighbors and our community

We share ideas, stories, pictures and events. We have no writing staff or hired agencies, we are simply residents with a passion for our community. Do you know a resident with an amazing story or special talent? Weâ€™d love to talk to them.

Share - find and recommend the best, local trusted businesses with our neighbors We rely on the support of our sponsors/advertisers each month. They care about our community and want to earn your business. Please thank our advertisers by hiring and recommending them. Do you know an amazing business that would like to be a part of our community? Weâ€™d love to talk to them.

Support - local businesses, worthy causes, schools, charities, nonprofits and fundraisers We support hundreds of nonprofits, charities and events. Do you have a worthy cause that we should support? Please reach out to us.

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 11

Expert Contributor

What Does An Ideal Bathroom Remodel Entail? By Gordon Reese, Gordon Reese Design Build, Resident since 2008

bathroom is one of the most important rooms in your house. You can make the most of it with the right design and the best features and functionalities. If you’re looking for a change, visit GordonReese.com or Houzz.com to find images of inspirational bathrooms. Once you have a vision in mind, here’s what your ideal bathroom remodel should entail.

Bathtubs If your bathroom has the room, an excellent looking bathtub can add beauty and function. Take note of your preferred color, size, and design. If you have a disabled or elderly loved one in your house, it’s best to consider accessible options.

Colors Standard bathroom remodels are usually done in white. You can spice yours up by introducing some light colors which will brighten up your space in no time. If you aim for a minimalistic but luxurious feel, a blend of white and black or gray looks fantastic.

Lights A well-lit bathroom will always work better for everyone. Bright LED lights on a dimmer switch will not only give your bathroom a gorgeous look, but will also provide just the right amount of light. Aside from placing light fixtures on the ceiling, you can also install them on walls and in mirrors.

Cabinets An ideal bathroom is clean and organized. That’s why you need the right storage solution for your space. Keep all of your bathroom essentials in a cabinet, and make sure that cabinets blend well with the rest of your bathroom decor.

Contact Us Are you planning to remodel your bathroom? If your answer is “yes,” then you need a skilled and reliable partner. Gordon Reese Design Build is a bathroom remodeling company servicing the Walnut Creek and surrounding areas. Visit our website for inspiration or to register for our last online remodeling seminar for 2020 on Thursday, November 19th at 6pm. We look forward to the opportunity to help you create your dream space.

NOVEMBER 2020

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JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

WHAT IS BVMSPORTS.COM? BVMSPORTS.COM is an all-encompassing site dedicated to providing local, national and international sports coverage at every level – pee wee to pros – all in one place. From scores and news to profiles and human interest stories, BVMSPORTS.COM has it all. Do you want to see YOUR CHILD’S team covered alongside national sports headlines? Submit your local athlete/team content TODAY. Where else can you find hyperlocal coverage of your hometown team, friends, family, coaches, etc. next to the national headlines?

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Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 13

California COVID Diaries By Contra Costa County Library

ach of us has been impacted in different ways by the COVID-19 pandemic. Old, young and in-between, we’ve all experienced big changes in our work home and social lives. Some changes, like losing a job, are difficult. Others – like spending more time with loved ones or doing more to help those in need – are joyful and inspiring. The California State Library is working with local libraries to collect COVID-19 stories from across the state. We invite you to share your experience – in an essay, poem, letter, photograph, artwork or video – so that we can preserve these memories for future Californians. Visit ccclib.org/blogs/post/ covid-diaries/ to contribute your story.

Little Free Libraries Popping Up Submitted by Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

nother Little Free Library was spotted in the Northgate neighborhood. This one is at the intersection of San Antonio Drive and the Canal Trail. Stop in to borrow a book, leave a book, share a book. Other Little Free Libraries in the neighborhood are at 767 Buckingham Ct. and on the Canal Trail between Oak Gove and the fire station. 14

NOVEMBER 2020

Charity Spotlight

One-Stop Holiday Shopping By Judy Caponigro, Walnut Creek Historical Society, Resident since 2016

he Walnut Creek Historical Society will be hosting its 38th Annual Holiday Craft Faire at Shadelands Ranch Museum. With over 30 vendors showcasing beautifully handcrafted gifts this is the perfect opportunity to get your holiday shopping done early. The Holiday Craft Faire will be open 10am to 4pm daily from November 28 through December 13. Shadelands Ranch Museum 2660 Ygnacio Valley Road www.wchistory.org 925-935-7871 Compliance with all public health recommendations will be required including masks and social distancing. We look forward to seeing you there.

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 15

Expert Contributor

Get the most out of your swimming pool investment By Brian Duncan, Picture Perfect Pool Services, Inc.

or those fortunate enough to have a backyard swimming pool my guess is that it saw quite a lot of activity this year. In 2020 the backyard pool has found a renewed significance. Here are a few helpful tips for extending the life of your investment. If you read our article in early spring you see some glaring similarities. That’s right, properly balanced pool water and maintaining a clean pool can extend the life of your swimming pool. If your pool has solar heating with the shorter days and cooler nights it will soon be time to turn off and properly winterize your solar system. Without any type of heating aid your pool water will drop dramatically in temperature. Lower pool water temperatures require additional diligence regarding your pool water chemistry. Properly balanced pool water is the single most important factor in pool maintenance. Without properly balanced pool water your pool will be prone to scale and /or etching of the surface. A pool is said to be “balanced” when the pH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness, TDS (total dissolved solids) and cyanuric acid are all within the proper ranges. As your pool water temperature lowers, without correct

levels of calcium and alkalinity, you could be damaging your pool’s surface. The Langelier Saturation index or LSI is perhaps the best know model to let you know if your water is properly balanced. For you “Do-it-Yourselfers” try the Orenda app, it’s a very helpful (LSI) tool, guiding even the most experienced pool technicians. Remember chemicals alone will not produce safe, healthy and clear water. The water must be properly circulated and filtered as well, and yes even in the winter you should keep your pool clean. The coming fall and winter, with copious wind and rain, will deliver a heavy blow to your pool and require extra maintenance. The wind primarily brings a large amount of debris: dirt, ash, and organic matter like leaves, pollen, and in some cases, branches are all deposited into your pool. The rain brings airborne pollution, nitrogen containing compounds, pollen, algae spores and other material. While specialty chemicals like phosphate removers and enzymes will help breakdown the organic load from the wind and rain, removing the larger windblown debris as soon as possible is equally as important in preventing pool surface staining and the accumulation of organic matter. To physically clean your pool there are many techniques; but normally a simple deep leaf net for the large debris, a vacuum for the fine debris, and a brush to touch it up will suffice. Along with keeping your swimming pool clean and your pool water balanced remember to make sure your recirculation system (the pool pump, pump strainer basket, skimmer baskets, and your filtration system) is also being cleaned and maintained. That’s right, properly balanced pool water, and a well maintained and clean pool can extend the life of your swimming pool, and that’s how to get the most out of your swimming pool investment.

NOVEMBER 2020

Nonprofit Spotlight

Walnut Creek Downtown Business Assoc. Supports Local Businesses By Kelly Inserra

alnut Creek Downtown launched its first Explore Walnut Creek Savings Guide October 1st, 2020.

As we navigate the road ahead, the Walnut Creek Downtown Business Association (WCD) is working hard to keep our downtown vital and flourishing. We invite our Members and active Associate Members to participate in this brand-new program designed to stimulate business in the downtown. The Explore Walnut Creek Savings Guide consists of a coupon book filled with 40 promotions and discounts from local downtown shops, services and restaurants. The coupon ads were free of charge to each participant. The Guides are now available to purchase for $30 at WalnutCreekDowntown. com. The majority of coupons are redeemable through December 31, 2020. The Guides will be promoted via social media, WCD’s public weekly E-newsletter, the WCD website, The Patch, City of Walnut Creek Newsletter, Rossmoor News, and in select downtown retailers including Downtown Walnut Creek Ace Hardware and 360 Gourmet Burrito. Our downtown business community has been greatly affected by the economic impact of COVID-19. The goal of the Explore Walnut Creek Savings Guide is to provide our businesses with an advertising opportunity during these challenging times and encourage visitors

to shop and eat locally. The Guides make a perfect gift item for the holidays. Proceeds will support WCD and its continuing efforts to serve the downtown business community. We thank our Explore Walnut Creek Savings Guide Sponsors Downtown Walnut Creek Ace Hardware and Range Real Estate.

Yam Bam Cake

Recipe

By Lisa Assoni, Short Cut Cook, Resident Since 2012

op off your Thanksgiving meal with this so easy, delicious, yummy dessert. Slam it in the pan and let the oven do the work. Yield: 6 servings Preheat oven to 375°F. 1 (1 pound 13-ounce) canned yams, drained 1 egg 1 cup low-carb baking mix 2 Tablespoon brown sugar 1 teaspoon honey 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon ginger 1 cup walnut halves, to serve (optional) Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

Confectioners’ sugar, to serve (optional) In the bowl of a food processor or mixer, add yams, egg, baking mix, brown sugar, honey, cinnamon and ginger. (Or, use a hand mixer.) Mix all the ingredients well. No lumpy yams, please. Coat a pie plate with cooking spray, and transfer yam mixture to plate. Bake in the oven for about 25 or 30 minutes. Check for doneness by carefully sticking a toothpick in center of cake. Remove, if clean, it’s ready. Let cake cool, top with confectioners’ sugar. NORTHGATE LIVING CA 17

Expert Contributor

Anger + Anxiety

and 10 Steps to Sanity By Dr. Brandy Zachary, DC, AFMCP with Body Love Cafe, Northgate resident since 2019

Grumpy. Irritable. Peeved. Angry. Rage.

No matter what you call it, it has more root causes than you can imagine. And, just like so many fascinating things about the body, these “psychological” issues often have a physiological contributing factor.

When inflammation is present, you may find yourself responding based on old patterns of behavior around trauma, especially those with current or previous PTSD. I have seen this with patients time and time again. Some are so sensitive that they can track changes in their mood before they see obvious symptoms of infection. The good news is that allows them to make lifestyle and protocol changes faster.

Here are a few things that can set off irritability and anger that might not be on your radar:

Are there situations where you notice an increase in anger? Particularly if it seems out-of-context or a more heightened response than the situation calls for?

• • • • •

The Body Love Cafe clinic approaches this by looking at the root cause using a detailed intake and advanced functional medicine labs.

Infection Inflammation Gut dysbiosis Low blood sugar Neurotransmitter dysfunction

In one study on rage, the researchers focused on two markers of inflammation, called C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). CRP is produced by the liver in response to an infection or injury, whereas IL6 is secreted by white blood cells to stimulate immune responses. Blood levels of both CRP and IL-6 rise when the body’s inflammatory response is activated. (JAMA Psychiatry Dec 2018)

For some tips you may use at home during an episode of anxiety or increased stress, consider these 10 Steps to Sanity:

10 - Shake Your Arms for 10 Seconds

Cortisol spikes and you want to “shake it out” by shaking your arms/hands quickly for 10 sec.

9 - Take 9 Deep Breaths

Breathe in and out slowly and evenly. This tells your body it is safe and that you are calm.

8 - Hum for 8 Seconds

Humming stimulates your Vagus Nerve to activate your Parasympathetic Nervous System.

7 - Look at 7 Things Around You

What do you see? List 7 things out loud to help anchor you to your current setting.

6 - LIsten for 6 Different Sounds A Family Owned Business

Notice 6 sounds both close & far and say out loud to help bring you into the present moment.

5 - What 5 Things Can You Feel

Notice 5 touch points to get grounded, your feet on the floor, your clothes, your chair…

4 - List 4 Things You are Grateful For

Services Provided:

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

Feeling appreciation shifts your focus to what is good in your life, pick 4 you are thankful for.

3 - Picture 3 People You Love

Thinking of people you love stimulates the hormone oxytocin to combat anxiety.

2 - Chew 2 PharmaGABA to Relax

If you are able to use PharmaGABA then chew 2 to help calm your nervous system quickly.

1 - Take 1 Next Step

Fernando Hernandez

What’s the ONE next thing you need to do? Pick just one and move forward.

Marissa Hernandez

925-437-8302

We are here to help with free, informative classes, advanced lab analysis, discounted supplements, and key lifestyle hacks.

xaspainting@yahoo.com LIC# 1063171

Curious to learn more? Schedule a no charge 15 min consult with Body Love Cafe at www.BodyLoveCafe.com

NOVEMBER 2020

Giving Back Our neighborhood magazines support fundraisers, nonprofits and charities.

Do you have a fundraiser, nonprofit or charity that you would like us to sponsor? Email jpeek@bestversionmedia.com with the information.

Aloha Kiss Fundraising Golf Tournament Animal Rescue Foundation Arc of the East Bay Golf Tournament Bay Area Tackles ALS Dinner Concours d’Elegance Danville Hot Summer Sunday Car Show Devil Mountain Run Discovery Counseling Center Down Syndrome Connection of the Bay Area Fallen Heroes Police and Fire Gianni’s Italian Bistro Tips for Change Fundraisers Harmony & Healing Have a Ball Hope Hospice Hope 100 Golf Marathon Horses Healing Hearts Hot Summer Sundays Car Shows Impact 100 Invest in Hope Golf Fundraiser Loaves and Fishes - Drive out Hunger Loaves and Fishes - Rock out Hunger Moment by Moment Photography Northgate High School Football Golf Fundraiser RISE | Forma Gym – Turkey Trot Ruth Bancroft Ribbon Cutting Shirley Ann Foundation Benefit Concert and Auction The Crayon Initiative Golf Tournament Tri Valley Animal Rescue Walk to end Alzheimer’s

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 19

Expert Contributor

Cosmetic Surgery in the Awake Patient By Vivian Ting, MD, FACS, Veritas Plastic Surgery

ost people think of cosmetic surgery as requiring general anesthesia and being “put to sleep” for major procedures. What if you could undergo your procedure completely awake and remain pain-free? Thanks to local anesthetic techniques developed by plastic surgeons and dermatologists like Dr. Donald Lalonde and Dr. Jeffrey Klein, it is now possible to undergo a wide variety of plastic surgeries completely awake and pain-free. These techniques include the use of modified numbing solutions that eliminate pain as well as distraction techniques during surgery including the use of physical modulation such as vibratory stimuli as well as audiovisual distraction in the form of virtual reality goggles that can allow patients to stream a movie or listen to their favorite music. Having your elective and cosmetic surgeries performed without the use of a ventilator and inhaled anesthesia eliminates cardiac and pulmonary risk, deep venous thrombi (blood clots) and pulmonary emboli, postoperative nausea and vomiting, head fog and postoperative fatigue. Patients who undergo procedures with local anesthetic often report no pain, quick recovery in as little as 24 hours and rapid return to work. Preoperative hunger and thirst are reduced. Seniors with medical conditions that pose increased risk with general anesthesia as well as those at risk for sleep and memory disturbance can do much better when undergoing the same procedure awake.

The Rita Dhillon Team

Here at Veritas Plastic Surgery Dr. Vivian Ting has perfected the use of local anesthetic and nerve blocks to perform a variety of cosmetic surgeries including awake abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) with or without muscle repair, body contouring with liposuction and BodyTite RFAL (radiofrequency assisted liposuction for skin tightening), fat grafting, scarless brachioplasty (arm lift) as well as modified open brachioplasty, FaceTite RFAL (facial contouring of the chin, jowls, and jawline), face and neck lift, eyelid lift and labiaplasty. Similar techniques are used with carpal tunnel release as well. Topical anesthetics are routinely used in the office for laser procedures and minor surgeries. Candidates should be free of general anxiety disorder. Patients are often able to participate in their procedures by making positioning easier and giving immediate feedback as to their result. In the current Covid-19 environment it is now known that having an occult Covid infection while undergoing general anesthesia can increase perioperative risk and mortality due to increased blood clotting and pulmonary issues. Dr. Ting believes that as these local anesthetic techniques continue to be refined there will be a paradigm shift away from the use of general anesthesia for many plastic and cosmetic surgeries. If you have thought about having cosmetic surgery but were afraid due to fears of general anesthesia, think again and schedule a consultation!

#1 Northgate Realtor *Total Sales Volume in 2019

NOVEMBER 2020

Nonprofit Spotlight

Turkey Trot goes Virtual By Ralph Rajs, Forma Gym

his year we are doing things differently for the Forma Gym Turkey Trot by making it a virtual race. We are as committed as ever to helping the people in our communities, and the need this year is unprecedented. Forma Gym has a long history of delivering a great race experience in the community and we want to keep the tradition alive in 2020. For this year’s event, we are focusing on helping families get the food they need. We know that one in nine families in the U.S. suffers from food uncertainty, and we are hoping to make a difference for families in the Bay Area. As a virtual race, we have the ability to include our San Jose club in the fun. So this year, we will be raising funds for the Food Bank of Contra Costa County and the Second Harvest Food Bank of Silicon Valley. Both are incredible organizations doing good work to help people in our areas. If you would like to skip the run portion and make a donation to one or both of the food banks, that would be wonderful and you can do that right on the race website. There are many ways you can help the food banks and I ask you to consider any or all below: • •

Sign upfor the Turkey Trot Virtual 5K/10K and get a cool T-shirt and sweet sticker. Form a team with family and/or co-workers and get them to sign up as well. This is a great way to have some fun in the Thanksgiving season.

• •

Promote the Turkey Trot to your customers, friends and relatives– send an email, encourage them to support the race with you. Like us on our Facebook and Instagram pages and share our posts with your followers.

For a virtual race, you sign up for a 5K, 10K, or 26.2, and you have all of Thanksgiving week to complete the mileage. You can do it all in one workout or spread it out over the week. When you’ve finished, go to the race website and log your distance. We will have a cumulative distance map to see how far we can get. No pressure, no getting up early on Thanksgiving (unless you want to, of course!) -- just fun, a little exercise and an opportunity to support two great nonprofits. Take aways: • • • •

Check out the website and the cool T-shirt design Let us know if you would like to be listed as a sponsor Get yourself signed up and rally your friends to do the same Feel good you are helping others

If you have questions or thoughts, feel free to drop me an email at Ralph.Rajs@formgym.com. This quote from Arthur Ashe captures very well the spirit of the Forma Gym team in trying to make a difference in our communities – “Start where you are, use what you have, do what you can.”

State Resources For Emergency Preparedness

Community Safety

By Judy Caponigro, Resident since 2016, Northgate area CERT team

ince the beginning of the year, your Northgate Area CERT Team has been providing you with information to help you adequately prepare yourself and your family for an emergency or disaster. An additional resource of preparedness information is available from a State program, Listos California, that has prepared an easyto-follow disaster preparedness guide. The guide is a good resource to have on hand as it provides step-by-step instructions similar to what you have seen in these pages, with the advantage of being contained in one convenient document.

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

To obtain your disaster preparedness guide simply go to https://www.listoscalifornia. org/prepare-your-community/toolkit/ and download your copy. Stay Safe Out There. Your Northgate Area CERT Team If you are interested in learning more about CERT and/or how to become a volunteer, please visit our website at www.walnut-creek.org/cert NORTHGATE LIVING CA 21

Expert Contributor

The Art of the Stack By Steve Padis, Padis Jewelry and The Broadway Plaza Forevermark Boutique

The Art of the Stack

As the holiday season approaches, stackable rings are still one of the hottest trends and we just love it! Whether you’re going on a date, heading to work or a Zoom meeting, maybe even a socially-distanced girls’ night out, there is a stackable ring style that is appropriate for every occasion. Padis Jewelry carries a variety of stackable rings, from simple to ornate, and we encourage experimentation with mixing and matching them with other stackable rings in your jewelry collection. Here’s what you need to know to help you create your own personalized stack:

Begin with your favorite piece:

It could most definitely be your diamond engagement ring, a most frequently worn ring, a family heirloom, or anything else that is close to your heart. It deserves to find the most important spot. No matter how big or small, it needs to stand out, which takes us to the next point, balance.

Aim for balance:

It doesn’t matter if half of your ring stack involves gold or silver or white-rose colored bands, the key is to aim for a balance so that every piece looks like it was meant to be there and stacked strategically. If mix and match is not your style, you can always opt for a more polished look by going with a single color scheme. The only thing you will have to take care of is to ensure that a proportion is being maintained and not all thick or sleek pieces are stacked together.

Mix & Match

Building different stacked looks is a perfect way to let your individuality shine. But sometimes, figuring out what ring goes with what can be stressful. Start simple and don’t be afraid to experiment. Try pairing a simple band with an east-west ring. Or, wear a bold chunky ring next to a delicate diamond eternity band. Throw in some larger statement rings. You get to make your own rules.

Pops of Color

Bring on the color! Rose, yellow, and white gold or platinum metals can play beautifully with each other. Wear one band style in multiple metal colors or create a little contrast by wearing rings from different designers and collections. You could even add a colored gemstone ring into your favorite stack with birthstones to represent children or special occasions. The combinations you can create are endless!

Don’t leave your thumb or pinky bare:

You can’t leave them bare. If not on both, as they may start to get in the way, you must choose between your thumb or pinky finger to complete the overall look. This will add a little more interest to the design you have set.

How many are too many?

We get asked this question a lot, and our philosophy is simple: the more bands, the better! With so many occasions to celebrate (new babies, anniversaries, birthdays, etc.), the perfect stack grows with you.

Ready to rock this style?

Come visit us and try a variety of rings on! Our non-commissioned jewelry experts are ready to guide you to the perfect choice in a clean, safe and socially distanced environment. Get started by scheduling a visit to the Padis Jewelry flagship showrooms in San Francisco, our brand new Padis Jewelry & Tasting Room in downtown Napa or our beautiful Forevermark Boutique in Walnut Creek’s Broadway Plaza. Feel free to contact us at concierge@padisjewelry.com.

NOVEMBER 2020

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 23