Northgate Living CA October 2021

Mailed Directly to Northgate Residents and Published Online

OCTOBER 2021

Northgate LIVING CA

Meet the Fullmores A family full of talent Photo by Julie Cheshire Photography

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OCTOBER 2021

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 3

Dear Neighbors, Jo Peek

In our October issue of Northgate Living CA you will meet the Fullmore family. They are new to the neighborhood and are a family of many talents. Check out the article on page 11 about their very own haunted house they will host to raise money for Make-A-Wish Foundation. It’s always a pleasure getting to know more about the families that make up Northgate and learning the many ways we all connect with our community.

Content Coordinator: Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

This month we also feature good news about how our community is supoorting our local nurses during this difficult time and great articles from our expert contributors.

Publication Team Publisher:

Designer: Emily Lund Contributing Photographer: Julie Cheshire

Jo Peek

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

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. We are looking for someone to help with our social media promotion, so please get in touch if you might be interested. And we are always looking for cover stories; we welcome all families, couples, or individuals. Please email me with your recommendations or if you are interested, please reach out!

Check out our Facebook www.facebook.com/northgatelivingca and Instagram @northgatelivingca.

We look forward to connecting with the community!

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.

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. © 2021 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

Kara Navolio Northgate Living CA Content Coordinator Resident Since 1991

Find us online NorthgateLivingCA www.NorthgateLivingCA.com

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OCTOBER 2021

Expert Contributors 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

We specialize in hardscape restoration, repairing, cleaning, sealing & staining enhancing your outdoor surfaces. 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, root damage, settling cracks and trip hazards. “We Bring Your Hardscapes 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.

Religious Education

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.

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.

Sports Medicine

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.

Rita Dhillon Compass Real Estate (925) 570-1010 Rita.Dhillon@compass.com www.RitaDhillonTeam.com Contra Costa Christian Schools 925-934-4964 afullmore@cccs.org www.contracostachristianschools.org Open Mortgage Annemarie Drosos 530-736-2295 annemariedrosos@openmortgage.com https://openmortgage.com/annemarie-drosos Precision Sports Medicine & Chiropractic Dr. Christopher Matock, DC CCSP (925) 322-8074 info@precisionsportsmedicine.com www.precisionsportsmedicine.com

Tree Service

John Traverso Traverso Tree Service (925) 930-7901 traversotree@gmail.com www.traversotree.com

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.

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NORTHGATE LIVING CA 5

Resident Feature Ann-Marie is a tap dancer and sings in the local chapter of Sweet Adeline’s, a women’s barbershop organization called Diablo Vista Chorus. She attended UC Santa Barbara for her undergraduate degree and Santa Clara University for her Master’s.

After working for Stanford University and Yahoo!, she took time off to raise her two children. She recently returned to work as Director of Marketing & Development at Contra Costa Christian Schools.

Mike, who attended De La Salle High School and is an avid mountain biker, received his BS from Cal State Hayward. He also worked for several tech companies like Facebook and Pinterest before his current position as Principal Software Engineer at Silicon Valley Bank.

The couple’s two children, Parker and Payton, are also quite talented and involved with technology.

Parker, a sophomore at Northgate High School, has been acting professionally since he was six years old. Early on he was in commercials for Duracell, Nickelodeon, and others. A performance on a commercial for Million Dollar Listing NY won him the Young Artist Academy Award in 2019. But the role he is most known for is Billy in Billy Elliot the Musical. He is the youngest person to ever play the role, starting at age 9. He won multiple awards including the 2019 BroadwayWorld Award for Best Lead Actor in a Musical Professional for his portrayal. He has released several songs including an original pop song called Dreams Come True. He has also appeared on the TV show Dance Moms. He is an Instagram influencer with several partnerships.

He and his sister, Payton, recently appeared on a new Disney show called Disney’s Magic Bake Off. The first episode aired in August; Parker and Payton appeared on the Lion King themed episode on Sept.

11 as team “2 Ps in a Pate a Choux.”

The Fullmores always go all out for Halloween

Meet the Fullmores A family full of talent

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

T

he Fullmores have been residents of the Bay Area their entire lives, but just recently landed in Northgate this past March, moving here from the Larkey Park neighborhood in the northern part of Walnut Creek. AnnMarie grew up in Saratoga, and Mike is from Concord. Their paths crossed in 2001 when both were working at National Semiconductor’s headquarters in Sunnyvale. They married in 2003.

Payton is now 13 and a 7th grader at Contra Costa Christian School. In addition to her time on Disney’s Magic Bake Off, she is an avid baker, a Miss Preteen California, and an equestrian. Her posts on Instagram of her baking creations is what caught the attention of Disney’s casting director. She used her platform from the Miss Preteen pageant to raise money and awareness for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and also trains with her horse, Amara Z, in the Hunter/Jumper category.

The Fullmores moved to Northgate, in part, to be close to the equestrian center and to Northgate High School. “We love the friendly neighbors and the large quiet cul-de-sac where the neighborhood kids play out in the front like we used to when we were kids,” says Ann-Marie. “It feels very much like going back to a simpler time.” They also attend St. Matthew Church on Wiget Lane and make it a priority to help

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OCTOBER 2021

Parker and Payton on Disney’s Magic Bake Off which aired on Sept. 11 Courtesy of Disney/ Aaron Epstein

others. The family has been putting on an annual haunted house, and this year it will raise money for Make-a-Wish Foundation of the Greater Bay Area (see article on page 11 for information on this year’s Spooktacular). Meanwhile, during the pandemic, Parker sold off most of his Billy Elliot memorabilia and raised $6000 to help the Civic Theatre, a theatre he had performed at in Pennsylvania that was in danger of closing during the shutdown.

The Fullmores did have a three year stint away from the Bay Area when Parker expressed his dream to be in musical theatre. They moved to Manhattan and lived in a high rise in the middle of Times Square for a year. “That was an incredible experience,” shares AnnMarie. “We loved the hustle and bustle, getting around without a car and seeing Broadway shows every week.” After Parker landed the role of Billy Elliot, the family traveled with him as he performed across the country for three years.

Payton and her horse Amara Z

The Fullmores two boxers: Brooklyn and Winter

As evidenced by the many accomplishments of this talented family, they believe in “Go Big or Go Home,” which to them means “whatever you do, give it 110% so you’ll never regret missing an opportunity.”

We look forward to seeing what else these new neighbors may bring to our community in the years to come.

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

ARF Adoption Stars

Bruce

Submitted by ARF

Daisy

Looking for a furry friend during this trying time? Good news — ARF is offering a 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 Bruce is a dog who’s smart, loyal, and loving. This curious, friendly boy loves exploring, playing, training, and leaning into his favorite people in the hopes of scoring a few pets. If you are looking for a superstar companion who is also handsome, this is your guy. Bruce has a positive history with other dogs and currently weighs 84 pounds.

ARF adoption fees: $250 for an adult dog, $350 for a puppy (<6 months), $125 for a special- needs dog, $175 for a special-needs puppy (<6 months), and $125 for a senior dog (7+ years).

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.

Three-year-old Daisy is a snuggle bug with such a sweet demeanor. She is curious and playful, especially with wand toys. Daisy loves to bask in the sunrays that come through the window and sit on the sill to enjoy the view.

ARF Adoption fees: $100 for an adult cat, $150 for a kitten (<6 months), $150 for two adult cats, $250 for two kittens, $50 for a special-needs cat, $75 for a special-needs kitten (<6 months), and $50 for a senior cat (7+ years).

SHARE YOUR STORY Share your child’s first T-ball hit, their first catch, their first smile playing the sport they love!

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OCTOBER 2021

Active Listings Address List Price 2070 Shell Ridge Trl $3,200,000 631 N Gate Rd $2,895,000 161 Brodia Way $2,600,000 2927 Comistas Dr $2,199,900 2261 Deer Valley Ln $2,100,000

Pending Listings Address

List Price

3721 Waterford Lane $2,500,000 3521 Valley Vista Rd $1,950,000 575 Pine Creek Road $1,900,000 1024 Millbrook Ct $1,495,000 208 San Antonio Way $1,495,000 31 Los Cerros Pl $1,450,000 472 Fenway Dr $1,375,000 133 Firestone Dr $1,350,000 2863 Encina Camino $1,250,000

Sold Listings Address

Sold Price

3341 Whitehaven Dr 3528 Eris Ct 929 Wiget Ln 300 Menlo Ct

$1,850,000 $1,825,000 $1,815,000 $1,750,000

Real Estate

Real Estate is proudly sponsored by The Rita Dhillon Team

BD 5 6 5 5 5

BD 5 5 6 3 6 4 4 4 3

BD 5 4 4 4

BT

SQFT

3.5 4.5 4 4 2.5

4,821 5,010 3,722 3,476 3,752

BT

SQFT

4.5 3 4 3 5 2 2 3 2

3,577 2,543 3,074 2,434 2,287 1,764 1,913 2,521 1,751

BT

SQFT

3 2.5 3.5 2.5

3,073 3,204 2,274 2,214

DOM 8 41 89 6 8

Real Estate Listings DOM in 1 13 Northgate 51 35 43 5 28 8 24

9/10/2021

DOM 7 9 7 10

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

Rita Dhillon 925.570.1010 Rita.Dhillon@compass.com DRE 01109990 Tim Dhillon 925.570.0418 Tim.Dhillon@compass.com DRE 01521381 Khush K. 925.577.3422 Khush@compass.com DRE 01480990 www.RitaDhillonTeam.com

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NORTHGATE LIVING CA 9

October Sat., Oct. 9

Movies on the Roof: Disney’s Coco

@Lesher Center garage Enjoy a safe, family-friendly activity at the Lesher Center in the beautiful arts district of Downtown Walnut Creek.

You are welcome to bring lawn chairs, blankets, snacks, dinner, and any other comforts of home. Please consider other moviegoers and keep chairs, coolers, and other comforts to a minimum height.

Cost: $5 per person, Under 3 is discounted (lesherartscenter.org) Time: 7:15 pm

Sat., Oct. 9 Downtown Heritage Walk

@Liberty Bell Plaza on the corner of Broadway and Mt. Diablo Blvd.

This easy, 90-minute walking tour brings to life the early times and development of what has become a Bay Area destination city. For more information, please visit our website at wchistory.org. A tour booklet with historic photos may be purchased for $5.

Cost: FREE Time: Check in 9am

Sat., Oct. 16 Movies on the Roof: Disney’s Hocus Pocus @Lesher Center garage Enjoy a safe, family-friendly activity at the Lesher Center in the beautiful arts district of Downtown Walnut Creek.

You are welcome to bring lawn chairs, blankets, snacks, dinner, and any other comforts of home. Please consider other moviegoers and keep chairs, coolers, and other comforts to a minimum height.

Cost: $5 per person, Under 3 is discounted (lesherartscenter.org) Time: 7:15 pm

Any day Public Art Self-Guided Audio Tour

Enjoy a self-guided audio tour of Public Art in Walnut Creek, featuring 33 stops about the artwork in the downtown area. Look for

CALENDAR OF EVENTS the pink and orange Public Art signs around town, located by artworks. Dial the number on the signs to hear about that artwork.

More information: https:// www.bedfordgallery.org/ public-art/public-art-tours Cost: free

Sat., Oct. 16 Remodeling Seminar

@online or in person (3021 Citrus Circle #170, Walnut Creek) Do you dream of transforming your space? We can help turn your dream into a reality. Join our home remodeling seminar and allow our expert team to guide you through the basic steps of a home remodel, answer all of your questions, and more.

Register now to learn how to: • Keep your project’s timeline on track • Choose the right contractor • Make design decisions you’ll love • And much more!

Let us help you dream a little. After all, dreaming is the first step to creating something new. The event shall be available virtually or with limited in person attendance with social distancing and following health and safety protocols.

Oct. 30 - Feb. 13 If a Tree Falls: Art of the Boundary Oak

@Bedford Gallery This exhibit memorializes the City of Walnut Creek’s signature Valley Oak, which was sadly destroyed during a massive windstorm in October 2019. In honor of the tree’s life and history, which experts say spanned 325 years, the artists in this exhibition will create artworks from its wood. In doing so, these artists help to offer this monumental being a second life.

Featuring a roster of artists from our local community and the broader Bay Area, If a Tree Falls will feature a wide range of artworks— made exclusively for this exhibition—in a striking variety of forms and in conjunction with many different mediums. All will incorporate our beloved oak tree, a rare opportunity to view a common thread among a diverse roster of artists, in this inclusive, community-driven exhibition. Must be vaccinated or have proof of negative COVID-19 test to enter if over the age of 12. Masks required for all guests.

Cost $5 Time: Th-Su, 12-5pm bedfordgallery.org

Every Saturday Farmers’ Market

RSVP: https://gordonreese.com/ home-remodeling-seminar/ or by phone (925) 885-3770 Cost: Complimentary Time: 10am - 12pm

@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

Fri., Oct. 29

Save the date:

Trunk or Treat

@Civic Park Hosted by the City of Walnut Creek, this 2nd annual event invites families to walk through “Trick-or-Treat” Lane stopping for activities, games, and treats at each booth.

Cost: Free Time: 4-5:30pm

Sat., Dec. 4 – Sun., Dec. 5 Handcrafted Holiday Sale

@Shadelands Art Center Center for Community Arts’ annual handcrafted sale will be open for holiday shopping with handcrafted items by Community Arts students and teaching artists. A portion of the sales will benefit Center for Community Arts, the Clay Arts Guild and the Community Arts Foundation. www.communityarts.org Cost: Free Time: 7-8:30pm

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OCTOBER 2021

Charity Spotlight

Halloween Spooktacular

raises money for Make-A-Wish Foundation

By Ann-Marie Fullmore, Resident since 2021

W

e love the holidays, especially Halloween, and we love theatre.

Between us, we have been involved with theatre for over 30 years in various roles including actor, director, choreographer, set decorator, stage manager and make-up artist.

This year, we have combined our two passions and are excited to give back to the community by offering this free spooktacular event! We’ve taken our Halloween decorating to a whole new level and created a theatrical home haunt, filled with sets we’ve built and professional actors to scare you. We have converted our side yard and garage into a Haunted Victorian home and decorated it with actual furniture and items from that era, so perhaps you’ll get more frights than even we’ve planned!

Please park on Wiget Ln. near Via Verde and walk in to avoid a traffic jam in the cul-de-sac.

If you’d like to help in any capacity please contact me at annmarie13@msn.com Any support received will be sent to Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Greater Bay Area.

You will enter a gated outdoor area, then traverse the haunted hallways with scares coming from all sides and finally depart through the phantasm-ridden cemetery. Sweet treats await those who survive.

This event is not for the faint-at-heart, but even if you don’t dare to enter our haunt, we hope you’ll stop by to trick or treat and enjoy the spooky exterior scene.

We hope you’ll join us for the debut of our walk-thru haunt experience. (We’ll follow state Covid-19 guidelines.) at 244 Corte De La Reina in Walnut Creek, Oct. 29-31, 2021 from 6-9 pm nightly.

To keep the event accessible to all, it is FREE!

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 11

Expert Contributor

Resolving Trauma is for the Brave

By Katie Coelho, BA, ACN with Body Love Cafe

T

he truth is, we all hide our emotions occasionally. We pretend, avoid, and deny uncomfortable emotions as a defense mechanism in an effort of self-preservation.

We do this most often with difficult emotions like shame, fear, or rejection. When we experience events that emotionally overwhelm us and we’re unable to process what is happening, we bury them deep inside where our “weaknesses” can’t be seen

or further exploited. We end up hiding them from ourselves too. Yet, they’re still there.

These unresolved emotions get trapped in the body where they constantly emanate a vibrational frequency. Essentially, they fester: draining our energy, leading to burnout, emotional imbalance, and eventually dis-ease.

When we chronically repress emotions, we build heart-walls that further separate us

from authentic connection. Even without consciously burying emotions we can’t seem to stop the recurring patterns of worry, resentment, sadness, hopelessness or unworthiness despite best whiteknuckled efforts.

Identifying and resolving past trauma is the key for those brave enough to say enough is enough. “I’m done grimly struggling with (fill in the blank)”.

Addressing Emotional

with Energy Therapies

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Everything you love about the wine country and so much more. vino + vinyl bar ● outdoor movie theater ● shuffleboard patio dining ● pool ● hot springs jacuzzi ● spa

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OCTOBER 2021

To those ready and willing to take a stand to look at anything undermining their wellbeing, I applaud you!

Emotional wounds need to be addressed if you want to live in peace!

Energy Work sessions use muscle testing (a form of biofeedback with kinesiology) to tap into the knowledge stored in your subconscious mind and energy body. Using it can help ease physical discomforts, overcome emotional distress and negative thinking, conquer self-doubt, and stop negative patterns from repeating.

Finding an underlying emotional component to a patient’s physical issues or chronic health problems is common!

One of the most powerfully transformative trapped emotions to release is abandonment.

All of us experience abandonment; we all have been rejected, ignored, not accepted at some point in our lives. It doesn’t always mean physical abandonment.

Abandonment wounds come from not being fully accepted and unconditionally loved in childhood.

Signs of an abandonment wound: • • • • • • • • • •

People-pleasing Repeated patterns of toxic relationships / falling for people not good for us Attaching to people too soon and too much Codependency/ Insecure Attachments Being uncomfortable while being alone / feelings of loneliness Over criticizing yourself or others, prone to (self)-shaming and guilt Taking feedback as attack / defensiveness, sensitive to criticism Struggle to maintain a commitment Desperate for a partner / moving from one partner to another or never dating Expecting perfection

Katie’s passion for multi-dimensional healing inspired her to facilitate Emotional Wellness sessions at Body Love Cafe; working with brave patients to liberate trapped emotions and increase energetic vibration & consciousness through quantum fieldwork.

Treat these triggers as an opportunity to be curious and grow! When your nervous system is wired from past traumas, being still is stressful. When your nervous system is balanced, being still is blissful.

Be brave and take the steps to release trapped emotions from the body to bring the nervous system back to its natural state and enjoy inner peace.

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Expert Contributor

How to Achieve a

Bright and Airy Bathroom Remodel

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

T

o transform your bathroom into a spa-like retreat, it is best to keep everything light and bright. Start with clean lines, neutral colors, and include in a few stand-out features to enhance your enjoyment of the space. Perhaps you have a master bathroom that is cramped, dark, or outdated. Let us help you bring in some luxury.

We love to discover innovative solutions to create your dream space.

Lighting

The Freestanding Bath

Plan Your Bathroom Remodel

When designing your bathroom, what could be better than a freestanding bath? The luxurious look it lends will make you feel like you are in a day spa. A freestanding bath will make your bathroom look more spacious and add that touch of dreamy beauty you deserve.

Get Creative – Don’t Cover the Window

Instead of covering your bathroom window, try using stained glass to let the light in and give the room some color. Stained glass can be wiped clean and adds a standout feature to the space that makes it like no other.

Any bathroom remodel should include sensational lighting. If you have an older house, think of incorporating a pendant light. You’ll also want lighting you can adjust to your taste. Having the ability to dim lights to add ambiance to your bathing experience goes a long way!

We want our client’s new bathroom to capture their vision and exceed their expectations. A bathroom remodel adds irreplaceable value to your home and gives you years of use, so make it look and feel sensational. There is nothing more gratifying than to know we’ve not only built a beautiful project that exceeds expectations, but that we have built trust along the way.

Get started today by calling (925) 885-3770, or schedule a consultation online at gordonreese.com.

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OCTOBER 2021

Acts of Kindness

Oncology Nurses in Walnut Creek Honored

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

T

he nonprofit Cancer Support Community (CSC) of the San Francisco Bay Area supports over 2000 people annually who are dealing with cancer. All services are free to patients and their families, and the organization primarily raises funds through donations and events. This year’s gala had to shift to an online film festival due to COVID-19 concerns and took place on Sept.

18. The in-person dinner that was slated to accompany the film festival was to honor oncology nurses working at John Muir and three Epic Care oncology centers in the Bay Area.

“Instead of simply canceling [the dinner]…,” said Read Phillips, founder of Beets (the catering company), CSC suggested we work together to bring meals to oncology nurses at local medical facilities.”

So on Sept. 10, CSC staff delivered 140 box lunches to oncology nurse at John Muir Hospital and three other facilities.

Janice Hoss, Director of Director, Oncology and Specialty Services at John Muir Health and Rob Tufel, CEO of Cancer Support Community photo by Peter Dudley, Cancer Support Community

Rob Tufel, CEO of CSC, said, “Our mission as a cancer support nonprofit is to help people deal with adversity and help them make the best life they can when dealing with the effects of cancer. We do this every day through our support programs and now are helping nurses as well.” CSC has been providing this support to our community for over 30 years. For more information visit www. cancersupport.net.

At the Film Festival Charity Gala on Sept. 18, CSC awarded the California East Bay Oncology Nursing Society with their coveted Spirit of Healing Award.

Physician & Nurse Care Team, Epic Care Walnut Creek photo by Cheryl Nobusada, Cancer Support Community

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HEY, SPORTS FANS! SHOW US YOUR SPORTS! Northgate Living now has a Sports Section, and we want to hear from YOU! ➤ ➤

➤

Did your team just win the championship game?

Are you an athlete of any age with a success story and want to share it?

Are you behind your camera capturing photos of our local athletes in action?

If any of these describe you, we want to hear from you as we are seeking local sports stories to share in our magazine’s Sports Section and online at BVMSports.com!

Whether it’s a photo of your child making the gamewinning shot, the local Pickleball game schedule, a Q&A with a local coach or a little background on the history of a certain sport in your town, we love (and want to share) it all.

To get started, simply e-mail your content coordinator at carapdouglas@gmail.com with your contact information and ideas. With your help, we can bring our community together and celebrate the praiseworthy stories of our own local athletes.

Who knows? You just might see your sports story in this monthly magazine and on BVMSports.com.

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OCTOBER 2021

Local Sports

50 Years in the Making

By Cara Douglas, Sports Reporter 2021 Rancho San Miguel Swim Team | Photo By Swim Coach

W

ith 50 years in the making, Rancho San Miguel (RSM) Swim Club wins the Diablo Club Swim League (DCSL) Championship in 2021. “The atmosphere was absolutely electric,” said Christian Rassmussen, Head Coach of RSM. “This win has been a long time coming -- 50 years to be exact.” According to Rasmussen, the last time RSM won the DCSL League was in 1971.

In addition, RSM also won the Dual Meet against arch-rival, Scottsdale. RSM has not won the coveted title since 1974.

The 2021 season appears to be one for the record books, and Rassmussen credits it to years of building up the competitive swim team. “Many of our swimmers have been with us since they were four years old,” said Rasmussen. “Today, they remain committed and have become excellent competitors, even though many also swim on the Northgate High School team.”

RSM is one of eight teams that compete in the Diablo Club Swim League, whose mission it is to balance individual skill development with competition, sportsmanship, spirit, and stewardship of swimming. The eight teams in the DCSL are Forest Hills, Rancho San Miguel, Las Trampas, Scottsdale, Livorna,

Find Share AND

Springwood, Pleasant Hill Aquatics, and Walnut Country.

RSM says that their success is maintained by keeping a balance of fun and structure. According to Rasmussen, the moment they join the program they learn key swimming techniques as well as team commitment. “We also make it a priority to allow time for fun,” said Rasmussen. “Many of our swimmers have stayed committed to us because of the culture we embrace.”

Cara Douglas is an award winning writer, an avid tennis player and sports enthusiast. With three kids of her own who all play a sport, she’s featured athletes for more than 20 years. Cara loves giving back to the community in which she lives and looks forward to meeting the area’s rising stars- at any age or sport! Reach out to Cara at 559.349.8085, or via email at carapdouglas@gmail.com!

more local sports articles just like this on BVMSports.com

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Expert Contributor

The importance of caring for our mental health

By Zach Diestler, Counselor at Contra Costa Christian High School

“W

hy don’t parents care more about their children’s mental health?” she asks me, her wide eyes avoiding mine, peering over her mask as if to find the answer hiding in the corner of the classroom. She tells me that it’s not a good time to talk to either of her parents about her needs, because her mom is handling a lot of stress at work and her dad is going through a significant health challenge.

“But the whole family is trying to help him get better by reminding him to take his meds, not eating certain foods and all that...” she trails off, eyes misty as she tries to reconcile her family’s prioritization of physical over mental health.

The reasons families are resistant to therapy vary, but it usually comes down to some variation of stigma. When a child is physically ill, no one looks to blame the family or shame them for seeking treatment. Instead, the community rallies around the family, brings over meals and encourages them with stories of their own recovery. However, when someone is suffering from a mental illness, the stigma conjures up images of people living in padded rooms or cardboard boxes. The community is unsure how to respond, and I understand their fears.

The emotions I felt the first time I took my son to therapy were similar to when my wife first introduced kale into my breakfast smoothie: I was intrigued and trepidatious, knowing it was good for me but concerned about the process. I found out pretty quickly that therapy is hard: my parenting was challenged, issues from my childhood came to the surface, and we even had homework! However, we also experienced the guidance of a skilled therapist who helped us deepen our connection with each other, shifted our paradigms and changed our lives. When things were really tough, our family was “on the couch” weekly, when things got better we paired down to monthly and now we go in when we need a “tune up”. All the while we’ve maintained a strong relationship with our community and my testimony to them has always been the same: “If you need help, seek it. It’s difficult, but so worth it.”

across our community, blanketing the stigma of mental illness so completely that after my student is in treatment, someone will bring her a meal and encourage her with stories of their own recovery.

“Where there is no guidance, people fall, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.”

-Proverbs 11:14

Being authentically transparent is one of hardest things a person can do, but in the right environment, it is also one of the most rewarding. That’s why therapy isn’t for the weak. It’s for those who choose to look in the face of illness and say, “I see you, I’m with you and we will do whatever it takes to help you recover.” My prayer is that authentic transparency would spread

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OCTOBER 2021

Acts of Kindness

Mini horses bring joy to John Muir nurses

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991 | Photo credit Dana Maiorana

O

n Sat., Sept. 4, five adorable mini horses made overworked critical care staff at John Muir Hospital smile and melted their stress away.

Two critical care nurses, Dana Maiorana and Christina Amate, who have been friends since 6th grade, organized the visit from Angels for Minis, a nonprofit horse rescue located on Northgate Road. Dana and Christina, who both rode horses when they were young, have been volunteering at Angels for Minis for the past three years and noticed how their time with the horses helped relieve stress and gave them a sense of peace and happiness.

“The past year and a half have been really hard [on the nurses and staff due to the pandemic],” said Dana. “We’ve seen a lot of anxiety and stress. We thought it would be nice if we could bring the minis to our co-workers.”

After approvals from the hospital and paperwork, that thought became a reality. Scout, a certified therapy animal, was allowed inside to the break room to visit with staff who were working in critical care. Four other horses, Fiona, Angel, Willow and Cisco, were outside the hospital near the employee entrance for all employees and family members to enjoy. Some even came on their day off and brought their children.

“It was a very special thing to see,” added Dana. “It was so therapeutic to see some teary-eyed people being able to hug and love on the animals. This was 100% for the staff. We take care of each other.”

To find out more about Angels for Minis, who have rescued over 700 mini horses over the years, visit their website or their Facebook page: angelsforminis.com.

Do you want to see your local sports team in the spotlight?

Are you an athlete with a story to tell? Is your family part of a competitive team that you recently cheered on to victory?

We want your stories for our magazine’s Sports Section. To submit an article, go to www.bestversionmedia.com/submit-content. Your story may appear in these pages AND on our sports website, BVMSports.com!

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 19

Show us your best shot!

of Mt. Diablo

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

M

t. Diablo State Park is celebrating its 100th anniversary. In honor of our beloved majestic mountain, we invite you to send in your favorite photos of Mt. Diablo, either the mountain from a

distance or photos taken inside the park. We will share them here in our December issue. Submissions due by Nov. 10; send them to knavolio@bestversionmedia.com.

We’re hiring!

Northgate Living is looking for someone to help boost our social media presence.

If you know a resident who would like to help spread the good news in our community a few hours per week, please have them contact our publisher Jo Peek at jpeek@ bestversionmedia.com.

20

OCTOBER 2021

Expert Contributor

Take Care of Your Health: See Your Dentist and Hygienist

By Brian J. Hockel, DDS, Life Dental & Orthodontics, Resident since 1964

I

s a dental cleaning and checkup on your To-Do list? Visiting your dentist’s office regularly not only leaves your teeth and smile clean and fresh, but it also can help maintain your overall health!

ORAL HEALTH IS CONNECTED TO OVERALL WELLNESS

If you are like many people, your gums can sometimes be puffy and irritated, and even bleed a bit when you brush or floss. This condition, either gingivitis or gum disease, is caused in part by not cleaning effectively enough to remove all the plaque from your teeth, resulting in a bacterial infection. The infection progresses to the more serious condition called periodontitis. Studies have shown an association with periodontal disease and diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even Alzheimer’s! It makes sense that an active infection in your mouth can have effects throughout your body, since it’s all connected through the circulatory system. It’s about much more than simply the risk of tooth loss.

WHAT TO DO?

Keep yourself in optimal health by first taking care of your mouth and smile! Addressing any bacterial infections in your oral cavity is a simple, conservative first step. So how do we prevent or treat periodontal disease? The basic idea is to disrupt the biofilm - the sticky, slimy layer of bacterial colonies - that constantly forms on our teeth. Effective teeth cleaning at home is essential, possibly followed by an antimicrobial mouthwash or rinse. Good nutrition is also important. These should be addressed at home on a daily basis. However, in addition, regular visits are needed with a hygienist at your dental office to treat the areas below the gumline, where the bacterial biofilm is out of your reach. So three things have to be in place to have healthy teeth and gums: what you do at home on a daily basis, what the dental hygienist does when you visit the dental office, and the appropriate frequency between professional dental hygiene visits. Everyone has a unique “balance point,” an optimal interval for visits to the dental hygienist; waiting too long between visits will keep gums in a state of ongoing health risk.

YOUR NEXT STEP TOWARD BETTER HEALTH

Dental hygienists are professionally trained to help maintain your optimal oral health. Boost your overall wellness and get your smile back on track; schedule your next dental hygiene visit and checkup now!

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 21

Expert Contributor

Holiday Jewelry Trends for 2021:

Maximalism!

By Steve Padis, Padis Jewelry and The Forevermark Boutique at Broadway Plaza

I

s it just us, or do jewelry trends keep getting better and better? It makes sense when you think about it. At this point in the pandemic, our wardrobes have reached new levels of pared down, and jewelry has stepped up to instantly elevate nearly every work-from-home look. Though the fall/winter collections offer a glimmer of hope that fashion will liven up again in due time, jewelry cements its place as the head-turner of our future fall outfits.

While past seasons focused on minimalist pieces (think: dainty layered necklaces), this fall, it’s all about the drama. We’re talking about bling that’s fit for an extravaganza, oversize and chunky adornments seemingly mined from the closet of Cleopatra herself. When it comes to pretty baubles, the message of the fall/winter 2021 runways is clear: let’s bring back the fun. Ahead, see the five biggest jewelry trends to know (and wear) this fall. Because we could all use something to look forward to.

Mix It Up

If there’s a surefire way to incorporate an element of surprise into your outfit with minimal effort, what could be better than (literally) mixing it up? Whether you’re mixing and matching earrings or simply combining contrasting colors, when it comes to this trend, there really are no rules!

Pearly & Fringe Delights

This season, designers threw not-so-subtle hints at anyone who’s still in denial that pearls are absolutely back. Throughout the runway shows, pearl earrings embellished with crystal fringe details were paired with layers of matching necklaces. Fringed layers of dangly crystals and pearls may have been absent from your wardrobe for some time now, but expect a triumphant return come fall. Call it boho chic.

at Broadway Plaza – a Forevermark Boutique - and Downtown Napa in addition to our San Francisco stores.

We treasure the generations of families who allow us to become a part of their most precious moments. We’re here to help make gift-giving easy and stress free! Please feel to reach out if we can answer any questions and if we can be of assistance at concierge@padisjewelry.com.

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Big-Time Bling

This season, it was impossible not to notice the downright in-your-face quality of the jewelry (so we meet again, maximalism!). From oversize studs to larger-than-life pendants, the overall statement on runways this season was to, well, make a statement.

Garden Party

Let’s carry a little spring into the fall, shall we? Floral elements blossomed across the fall/winter 2021 runways, some overtly garden-like, others slightly more discreet. At Simone Rocha, there were flowers printed on pearls alongside beaded flower earrings (stems and all). Badgley Mischka, on the other hand, presented a decidedly more classic floral stud. Take your pick!

Chain Reaction

The chain-link trend continues to dominate for fall/winter 2021, but with a slight twist.

Whereas previous seasons featured ultra-chunky links, this time around, designers are showing range with dainty chains, mix-and-matched sizes, and colorblock iterations.

Now that you’re fully prepped on the season’s best trends, you’re ready to start your holiday wish list or pick out the perfect gift! Head on over to any Padis Jewelry location and our consultants will be happy to help you pick out the perfect gift! Our team at Padis is here and ready to help with all of your holiday shopping needs both in our stores and on our website at padisjewelry.com. Be sure to join us at East Bay locations 22

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