Northgate Living CA October 2023

Jo Peek

Publication Team

Publisher: Jo Peek

Content Coordinator: Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

Designer: Emily Lund

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.

Dear Neighbors,

In our October issue of Northgate Living CA you will meet the Gonzalez Arevalo family. They moved here to Northgate during the pandemic and are fully embracing their new California home as well as their Mexican roots. Check out our column “Food, Wine and Entertaining” for a special feature on a local winery. And there are so many fun fall activities to enjoy - check out our calendar of events for Oktoberfest and Halloween events, including the Fullmore family annual haunted house. 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. Please consider adding your ideas to our neighborhood magazine!

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 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!

Warmly,

Kara Navolio

Northgate Living CA Content Coordinator

Resident Since 1991

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

Expert Contributors

Advertising - Print & Digital

Northgate Living CA

Jo Peek 925-272-8246

NorthgateLivingCA@gmail.com

www.NorthgateLivingCA.com

Dentist

Tobian Kiefer Dentistry

Michael S Tobian, DDS & Maurissa Kiefer DDS

925-407-1155

mydentist@drtobian.com

www.drtobian.com

Design, Build & Remodeling

Gordon Reese

Gordon Reese Design Build 925-477-4953

Marketing@GordonReese.com

GordonReese.com

Financial Advice

Element Wealth Management

Chris J. Held, CFP®, CRPS® CA Insurance #0E56816 (925) 433-9533

chris.held@elementwm.com www.elementwm.com

Hardscape Restoration

Concrete Paver Restorations

Drew Bogetti 408-828-6903

www.cprpaver.com drew@cprpaver.com

HVAC & IAQ

Evergreen IAQ

JC Garcia 925-444-5069

jc@evergreenIAQ.com

https://evergreeniaq.com

Over the last 9 years, Jo Peek has been helping local businesses, nonprofits, charities and schools connect with our community on a deeper level. She works with each client individually to customize a marketing campaign to suit their needs, timeline and budget.

Dr. Michael Tobian graduated from the UCLA School of Dentistry. With over 30 years of experience, he has practiced dentistry for patients of all ages. He thoroughly enjoys the art and science of Dentistry. Dr. Maurissa Kiefer got her DDS degree from University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, in San Francisco, CA. Dr. Kiefer strives to provide her patients with comfortable, high quality care.

Gordon Reese, a seasoned Design Build professional with over 39 years of experience, is the founder of Gordon Reese Design Build. With an unwavering passion for elevating living spaces, Gordon offers homeowners a unique opportunity to transform their homes into a luxurious oasis. His team specializes in Additions, ADUs, Whole House, Kitchens, and Bathroom remodels. They are committed to delivering stressfree remodeling experiences and producing beautiful results that exceed expectations. If you are ready to turn your dream home into a reality, contact Gordon Reese Design Build today!

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.

We specialize in hardscape restoration, repairing, cleaning, sealing and staining to enhance your outdoor surfaces. We have developed state-of-the-art equipment with steam cleaning capability of 280-degrees, disinfecting and melting away years of dirt, debris, algae and moss. Our technicians are ICPI certified in paver repair, root damage, settling cracks and correcting trip hazards. “We Bring Your Hardscapes Back to Life!”

We are a family owned, residential AC and heating company specializing in indoor air quality and high efficiency system maintenance. I truly believe that every household should be able to control their comfort level while keeping their energy costs to a minimum AND ensure clean, fresh air to breathe inside their own homes. It IS your castle after all.I am committed to reinventing the industry and showing the world a new way to do business and get things done... The Evergreen Way.

Insurance Services

Crusberg-Decker Insurance Services, Inc.

Scott Decker and Patrick Decker (925) 239-0004

Scott@cdinsurance.com

Patrick@cdinsurance.com

http://www.cdinsurance-walnutcreek.com/

Real Estate

Rita Dhillon Compass Real Estate (925) 570-1010

Rita.Dhillon@compass.com

www.RitaDhillonTeam.com

Religious Education

Contra Costa Christian Schools 925-934-4964

afullmore@cccs.org

www.contracostachristianschools.org

Sports Medicine

Precision Sports Medicine & Chiropractic

Dr. Christopher Matock, DC CCSP (925) 322-8074

info@precisionsportsmedicine.com

www.precisionsportsmedicine.com

Storage Expert Shadelands Self Storage 925-935-6200

info@shadelandsstorage.com

https://shadelandsstorage.com/

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.

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

For over 40 years, Contra Costa Christian Schools has maintained its original mission to Prepare the Next Generation with Christian values and a quality academic foundation. While the instructional strategies and curriculum have evolved, the core mission of serving families in the East Bay has remained the same. CCCS provides a high quality 21st century education within a Christian context that equips students for success, whatever they choose to pursue.

Dr. Matock received his Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Exercise Science from CSU, Fresno. He attended Palmer College of Chiropractic West, where he received his Doctorate, graduating magna cum laude. Dr. Matock earned his Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician certification (C.C.S.P.) in 2010. He opened Precision Sports Medicine & Chiropractic in Walnut Creek in 2012.

At Shadelands Self-storage we provide peace of mind to our clients by offering a state of the art facility with video recorded surveillance and a real-time closed-circuit TV security monitoring station. In addition to our secured facilities, we have climate-controlled units, non-combustible construction and many additional features to fit your storing needs.

Gonzalez Arevalo Family: Meet the

Embracing their love of Mexico and California

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

and Sue grew up in Guadalajara, Mexico and attended the same high school, but they didn’t really know each other until years later when they both began working at Hewlett Packard.

After high school Sue attended the University of Guadalajara and received a bachelor’s degree in Computer Software Engineering. She worked in tech for TATA, IBM and Hewlett Packard. Daniel graduated from Federal Engineering College with a bachelor’s in engineering automation and process controls. He has been working in tech his whole career, with time at Hewlett Packard (HP), Amazon, Splunk, and is now at Anaplan.

HP brought them to the U.S., first to New York. They got engaged in 2011 and married in Guadalajara. In 2014 HP then brought them to California. They first lived in Cupertino, but the pandemic work at home model opened an opportunity for a new lifestyle, and they jumped on the chance to move here to the Northgate neighborhood in 2020.

Sue left the tech world to stay home with their two girls and manage the remodeling of their new home, a big project that sounded easier than the reality of living in the house while all the work was being done.

Daniela is 11 and attends Foothill Middle School, just down the street from their home. She has taken advantage of the proximity of the Shadelands Sports Mall, trying many sports from soccer to volleyball to Tae Kwon Do, but her passion is swimming. The family joined Scottsdale Swim Team this year, and Daniela loves it. She is fluent in English and Spanish and is now learning French too.

Camila, 3, is like a little tornado in the house and the most outgoing in the family. “She loves dressing up,” says Sue. “One day she’s a princess; another day she’s a superhero. She’s a very smart little girl and speaks Spanglish most of the time.” Camila enjoys swimming, dancing and soccer, going to the park and the library, but her favorite activity is gymnastics. She attends Northcreek Preschool.

The girls also love playing with their mini goldendoodle puppy, Latte!

The family embraces their Mexican culture, speaking only Spanish at home, and keeping their traditions as part of their everyday life. They follow fútbol (soccer), love tequila, tacos and mariachi too! They usually spend the holidays in Mexico with their families and then a few days in Puerta Vallarta or at their family cabin in Tapalpa.

Sue is a member of the Mount Diablo Mother’s Club where she enjoys meeting other moms and attending fun events with

Photo by Anne Wladyka

Photos provided by the Gonzalez Arevalo family

other families. They also have been members of Oak Grove Swim Club, enjoying hot days of swimming and barbeques with other neighborhood families.

In addition to soccer, they root for the Warriors Basketball team and the 49ers Football team. Other than Mexico, another favorite vacation spot is Disneyland. They enjoy outdoors vacations too, in a glamping kind of way at the Russian River and Yosemite.

“As a family we really enjoy our evening walks in the neighborhood, the trees, the colors, and the friendliness of the people,” adds Sue. We here at Northgate Living are glad they found Northgate as their new place to call home. The Gonzalez Arevalo family looks forward to meeting more neighbors as they head into their 4th year here in Northgate.

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.

Walnut Creek’s Community Service Day“Get Out. Give Back. Feel Great.”

By Kevin Wilk, Walnut Creek City Councilmember, Northgate resident since 1996

WithOctober comes cooler weather, fall colors, Halloween and… Walnut Creek’s Community Service Day! Saturday, October 14th is the thirteenth annual Community Service Day, which brings thousands of volunteers to help on dozens of projects throughout the city. We all love our city, and this is everyone’s chance to give back to the community that we love. The motto for this year is “Get Out. Give Back. Feel Great.”

There are projects for everyone, including parks, gardens, community centers and schools. Here are just a few in our Northgate community that people can sign up for:

• Arbolado Park Spruce up: Help us spruce up the landscaping at Arbolado Park. We will do a little pruning, remove some weeds, spread bark and pick-up litter.

• Northgate High School Beautification Clean-up: Join the NHS students and help to clean the campus of trash, prune roses and other bushes, add plantings and clear weeds, and possibly do some painting. All are welcome!

• Pine Creek Clean-up: Volunteers will work along the creek that parallels Oak Grove Road picking up trash that degrades the wildlife habitat along the creek.

• Pine Creek Habitat Restoration: Volunteers will work to remove an invasive plant, dittrichia (stinkwort), to improve the wildlife habitat.

• Walnut Acres School Spiff-Up: Join friends and neighbors and help us spiff-up Walnut Acres for the school year. We will clean lunch tables and play structures, sweep, dust, wash windows, pick up trash and freshen up the landscape. There’s plenty of work for everyone!

• YV Library Gardening: Join other library lovers as we spruceup the foliage and do general clean-up at the YV Library.

Volunteers of all ages can sign up here: wcserviceday.volunteerhub.com

Note that minors will need a parent or guardian to sign their waiver form.

Real Estate Listings in Northgate

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.

October

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Fri., Oct. 13 and Sat., Oct. 14

Oktoberfest

@Civic Park

It’s time to clink glasses and lift your spirits with Ein Prosit der Gemütlichkeit — a toast to cheers and good times — in honor of the upcoming fall season and popular Oktoberfest celebration. Join us in the biergarten or on the dance floor for another epic Oktoberfest in Walnut Creek. It’s a great place to show off your dirndl dress or don the lederhosen (not mandatory!). This 2-day-long, family-friendly event recreates the beloved German fall celebration. Oktoberfest will include live entertainment, music, dancing, gourmet food and dozens of artisan vendors, arts & crafts, biergarten with dozens of craft beers, wine, international music, Kinder Platz Kids Zone. walnutcreekdowntown.org

Time: 6-10 pm Fri. and 12-8pm Sat.

Free general admission

Sat., Oct. 14

Community Service Day

@various locations throughout Walnut Creek

Join with friends and family for a day of celebration and service. Projects for all ages, including many opportunities to volunteer right here in the Northgate neighborhood (Arbolado Park, YV Library, Pine Creek, Northgate HS, and Walnut Acres). Register at https://www.walnut-creek. org/about-us/community-resources-programs/ community-service-day

Cost: Free

Time: 9am-12pm

Sat., Oct. 14

Public Art Tour

@meet in front of Lesher Center Bedford Gallery offers one hour docent-led walking tours of Walnut Creek’s wonderful downtown public art collection every third Saturday, April through November. Our Docents are trained by public art specialists and can offer information and insight appropriate for all ages.

$5 fee includes admission to Bedford Gallery. More information: https://www. bedfordgallery.org/public-art/public-art-tours

Cost: $5, cash only; under 18 free Time: 10-11am

Fri., Oct. 27

Spooktacular Stroll

@Downtown Walnut Creek

Spooktacular Stroll is a free event for children and families in our community. Trickor-treaters will receive a map of participating businesses at the starting location, visit sponsor booths, take part in fun activities, and proceed to downtown storefronts to collect Halloween candy. https:// walnutcreekdowntown.com/marquee-events/ spooktacular-stroll/ for more information

Cost: Free Time: 12-3pm

Fri., Oct. 27 Trunk or Treat

@Civic Park

As a part of Walnut Creek Boo Bash, Walnut Creek Arts + Rec is hosting our 4th annual Trunk or Treat event in downtown Civic Park. This event invites families to walk through the “trick-or-treat” lane and stop by our entertaining booths filled with activities and games such as jumpees, face-painting, balloon twisters, food trucks, and more! Trunk or Treat is free for the community. https://www.walnut-creek.org/departments/ arts-and-recreation/recreation-parks/ programs-classes/events/trunk-or-treat

Cost: Free

Time: 3-6pm

Oct. 27-29

Fullmore Family Haunted House

@Corte de la Reina, Walnut Creek.

For the third consecutive year in Northgate, the Fullmore family will be hosting their Haunted House benefiting Make-a-Wish of the Greater Bay Area. This spooky spectacular combines the family’s passions for live theatre and for helping others. This haunted Victorian Manor is staffed with dozens of live actors and technicians and takes place at their home. It is never the same twice, so be sure to come back each year! The manor is furnished with many Victorian pieces obtained from the Shadelands Ranch Museum. All ages welcome but it is not for the faint at heart! Park at Wiget and Via Verde.

Cost: Free - but donations accepted for Make-A-Wish Foundation

Time: 6-9pm

Every Saturday

Farmers’ Market

@Shadelands Business Park

Farmers bring their best from the nearby farming areas, kid’s craft corner, live music. www. cafarmersmkts.com/diablo-valley-farmers-market Time: 9am-1pm

Save the date:

Thurs., Nov. 16

Remodeling Seminar

@3021 Citrus Circle #170, Walnut Creek

Are you considering ways to love your home a little more but not sure where to start?

Why not attend our next monthly remodeling seminar where you will learn valuable tips to help navigate your next successful home improvement project. Let us help you dream a little, after all dreaming is the first step in creating something new. Visit our website to register: www.GordonReese.com

Cost: Complimentary

Time: 6pm

Sat., Nov. 25

Santa at Shadelands

@Shadelands Ranch Museum

See Santa and share your wish list and get a photo! Tickets available at eventbrite.com

Cost: $5

Time: 10am-3pm

THE RISE OF Traditional Advertising IN 2023

By Jo Peek, Expert Contributor

Digital advertising exploded over the past decade as businesses of all sizes flocked to online platforms to market themselves. While many digital opportunities are highly effective and can help your business grow, traditional forms of advertising are a powerful tool that remain on the rise. By using print media in tandem with digital advertising, you create a winning combination that elevates your marketing plan above the competition.

BREAK THROUGH THE NOISE

Think outside of the box when it comes to your branding efforts. Consider going where your competition doesn’t already exist instead of competing in the same arena. One key advantage of print media is its ability to reach a hyperlocal audience on a consistent basis. It allows you to build awareness and loyalty by delivering your message right to the mailboxes of residents in the community. Break through the noise and create a well-rounded strategy by adding print media into your branding mix!

BOOST YOUR DIGITAL EFFORTS

Many business owners make the mistake of choosing one advertising medium over another versus creating an impactful mix of both. Implementing a strong print component can boost your digital presence as well. This way, when consumers see your business on social media or their search engine, they’re already familiar with your business and more likely to take action.1

TAP INTO A TRUSTED MARKET

It’s been shown that consumers trust print media more than any other form of advertising. In fact, according to MarketSherpa, 82% of American internet users trust print ads over other forms of advertising when making a purchasing decision.2 Building a well-balanced print and digital marketing strategy is a fantastic way to make a solid first impression and a lasting impact on potential customers.

Sources: www.localiq.com • www.socalnewsgroup.com

Neighborhood Haunted House raises money for Make-A-Wish Foundation

By Ann-Marie Fullmore, Resident since 2021 | Photos By Jodi Foucher

For the third consecutive year in Northgate, the Fullmore family will be hosting their Haunted House benefiting Make-a-Wish of the Greater Bay Area.

This spooky spectacular combines the family’s passions for live theatre and for helping others. This haunted Victorian Manor is staffed with dozens of live actors and technicians and takes place at their home on Corte De La Reina. It is never the same twice, so be sure to come back each year! The manor is furnished with many Victorian pieces obtained from the Shadelands Ranch Museum. All ages welcome, but it is not for the faint at heart!

To keep it accessible to all, admission is FREE, and donations will be accepted for Make-a-Wish of the Greater Bay Area, an organization who grants wishes to children with critical illnesses. This event raised $5300 in 2021, $6500 in 2022 and is hoping to raise $7500 this year!

They plan to be open from 6-9 pm Friday, October 27 through Sunday, October 29. The line can get long, so bring a friend and your patience :)

Hope to see you there if you DARE!

Follow our Facebook page for more details www.facebook.com/ californiahauntedmanor

Shadowbrook Winery a winery

right here in the heart of the neighborhood

By Lisa Crossett, Resident since 2001

Avisitto Shadowbrook Winery will surpass your expectations and transport you to the ambiance of Napa Valley without leaving Walnut Creek. They are celebrating their fiveyear anniversary of opening the tasting room this month. Back in the day, the Mount Diablo area was a robust grape growing region in the late 1800’s from Clayton through Walnut Creek to Danville. In 1911 the farmers and locals celebrated the first Walnut Creek Grape Festival, which today is the Walnut Festival. Unfortunately, with the invasion of grape mites killing the vines and prohibition, the land evolved to orchards of walnuts and almonds in the mid 1920’s.

Recently I had the opportunity to sit down with Tim Jochner, owner, and winemaker at Shadowbrook Winery, where we have been wine club members since January 2020. Tim’s journey began with planting a small vineyard on 2-acre parcel of land near his house in 2005 and Shadowbrook Winery was born. Tim began learning about wine making via being a voracious reader along with employing the consulting services of Randall Johnson who was the original winemaker at Hess. He was

particularly excited about the 85% clay terroir of the region that produces elevated fruit flavors for the 14 varietals that are all estate grown and bottled. Tim likes the challenge of the wine making process and decided to enter the prestigious San Francisco Wine Competition where his 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon earned a double gold metal.

This prestigious award opened the door to compete with the “best of the best” in the world of wine. It was now time to leap to the next step and open an official tasting room. He embarked on the journey to build the first bonded winery in Walnut Creek prior to prohibition with a vision to create wines that can compete against Napa. With over 75 award winning medals to his credit since 2005, his vision is now a reality. Tim’s philosophy to making great wine is to let the vineyard do all the work along with picking ripe grapes that are fruit forward with mature tannins to provide balance. His favorite wine is one that had a difficult growing season, where he is challenged to create an enjoyable wine, which most of the time is a complex yet approachable Boudreaux blend. His perfect food and wine pairing is a filet mignon paired with the wineries premier red wine ‘Jon Rae’. I was surprised to learn that he was a division one college baseball player at Fresno State. Tim’s passion for creating award winning wine is evident and a crowded winery with happy people ignites joy for him.

I had the opportunity to hang out with the new chef, Jon Chase in the kitchen and learned that he worked at Va De Vi in Walnut Creek, Fiorella in San Francisco, and many other established restaurants in the bay area. In addition to the winery, he is a part-time private chef and on those rare days off, he loves going out to eat with friends or making Korean food at home. He adores Italian food; especially handmade pasta and his signature dish is pappardelle with oxtail sugo. His favorite food and wine pairing is a buttery chardonnay with arancini. Speaking of arancini, this month you can enjoy a winter squash with mozzarella arancini as one of the specials. My mouth is already watering.

Jon shared with me that his best chef tip is to not be afraid of salt when cooking. His three favorite kitchen tools are a micro plane, chef knife and an off-set spatula. His tried-andtrue cooking philosophy is to use local ingredients as much as possible and has microgreens delivered weekly to the winery from Shell Ridge Farms that are delicious. It was fun to learn that Chef Jon loves a bowl of packaged ramen with avocado and cilantro - sounds like a must try, don’t you think?

In addition to the award-winning wines, the food is delicious, and I highly recommend the sidewinder fries, which are highly addictive. If you are an olive oil afficionado, check out the estate grown and produced olive oils for sale. You do not have to be a wine club member to enjoy this magnificent winery. If you are a club member, you can look forward to wine maker dinners soon. Shadowbrook is open Thursday through Sunday, and you can make a reservation on Open Table. Cheers to Tim and Jon for their time and insights!

Lisa has been a Northgate resident since 2001. Professionally she is the Head of Talent Acquisition for Mechanics Bank with headquarters in Walnut Creek. She is the President of California Recruiters and on the board for Community Arts Foundation based in Walnut Creek. Lisa’s passion is Food, Wine and Entertaining. She publishes a food blog called Authentic Suburban Gourmet and loves to throw elegant dinner parties, explore wine country, collect wine and cook great food. authenticsuburbangourmet.blogspot.com authenticsuburbangourmet@gmail.com Instagram: @authenticsuburbangourmet

The Path to Stardom: How to Be on the Cover of This Magazine!

Don’t think you have an interesting story? We hear this from neighbors often. We’ve got you covered! You’ll be surprised how interesting you really are! Your magazine has a great team of professionals ready to guide you on the simple, fast, and easy process of “Bringing People Together” through sharing your story on the cover of the magazine!

We’re here to set your mind at ease and explain the excitement behind how YOU can become a local star.

It Starts With You

Maybe you’ve seen a neighbor on the cover of a recent edition, or you have a striking story that needs to be told. Either way, contacting knavolio@bestversionmedia.com with your information is the first step to moving forward.

Give Us The Facts

The next step is providing your story. It’s as easy as describing your favorite hobbies and restaurants in the area, what activities your family participates in within the neighborhood, and why you love your community. All you have to do is fill out a questionnaire or complete a short interview. This process is entirely free and you can provide as much information as you’re comfortable with. We would also like photos of your smiling family as they are out enjoying all our neighborhood has to offer. You’ll even

get set up with our Photographer to capture professional photos of your family doing what they do best—having fun!

During this phase, you will also sign our Feature Article Release, a form that allows us to publish the information you provide.

Wait For The Magic

Once you’ve sent off your completed questionnaire, our Content Coordinator will get started whipping up your article! The best part? You’ll get a sneak peek of the story before it goes to print! We’ll give you an opportunity to review the story to ensure all facts are correct and that you’re happy with the information being shared! We know waiting is the hardest part, but during this time you’ll also be able to place an order to receive copies and share with all your friends and family.

And it’s as easy as that! Once the magazine appears in mailboxes, enjoy being a local star by sharing your story with your neighbors. We’d love to have you and your family grace the cover of our magazine, so reach out today and become a local star!

10 Genius Remodeling Ideas for Effortless Aging in Place - Part 1

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

Asthe saying goes, “Home is where the heart is.” However, as we age, our beloved homes might not always cater to our changing needs. The good news is that with a little planning and creativity, your home can not only adapt but also become a haven for graceful aging in place. At Gordon Reese Design Build, we’ve spent decades perfecting the art of home remodeling, and we’re thrilled to share our top 10 genius remodeling ideas for effortless aging in place, starting with these first five.

OPEN CONCEPT LIVING: Where Elegance Meets Accessibility

Are you ready to transform your living space? Embracing an open concept layout not only enhances accessibility but also infuses modern elegance into your home. Discover how removing walls can create seamless flow, allowing easy mobility with aids like wheelchairs or walkers.

An open concept living area is more than just a design trend; it’s a practical approach to creating a home that’s friendly to all ages. By removing walls and barriers, you can improve not only mobility but also social interaction. Imagine effortlessly moving from the kitchen to the living room, or from the dining area to the family space, all without the hindrance of walls.

ZERO-THRESHOLD ENTRIES: Step into Safety

Say farewell to tripping hazards and hello to zero-threshold entries. This straightforward change dramatically enhances safety and convenience by eliminating raised thresholds. Discover how it can make moving in and out of your home a breeze.

Zero-threshold entries are an elegant solution to a common problem. Whether you’re using a walker, a wheelchair, or just carrying heavy groceries, the absence of thresholds ensures a smooth transition from the outside to the inside. It’s a simple change that can make a world of difference.

LEVER STYLE DOOR HANDLES: A Touch of Elegance and Ease

Bid farewell to traditional doorknobs that can be a challenge for those with limited hand strength. Discover the sleek and

modern lever-style door handles that not only make life easier but also add a touch of sophistication to your home.

Lever-style door handles are a small change that can have a big impact. They are not only easier to grip and turn, but they also add a touch of elegance to your doors. Their sleek design fits seamlessly into various decor styles, enhancing the overall look and feel of your home.

KITCHEN REDESIGN: Where Cooking Becomes Effortless

The kitchen is the heart of your home, and it should remain so as you age. Lower countertops, pull-out shelves, and easyto-access appliances can transform your cooking experience. Discover how a pot filler faucet over the stove can simplify meal preparation.

The kitchen is where memories are made and meals are shared. To ensure it remains the heart of your home as you age, consider redesigning it with accessibility in mind. Lower countertops make meal preparation more comfortable, while pullout shelves eliminate the need for bending and reaching.

SPA INSPIRED BATHROOMS: Safety Meets Luxury

Imagine turning your bathroom into a luxurious spa-inspired haven. Curbless walk-in showers with built-in benches, grab bars cleverly disguised as towel racks, and non-slip flooring not only enhance safety but also create a soothing ambiance. Discover the ultimate bathroom transformation.

Your bathroom should be a place of relaxation and rejuvenation, and it should also be safe. Curbless walk-in showers with built-in benches provide both safety and comfort. Grab bars that blend seamlessly with your bathroom decor offer support where you need it most. Non-slip flooring ensures you can move confidently, even when the floor is wet.

Unlock the potential of your home and invest in a future of comfort and safety. These five genius remodeling ideas can make your living space more accessible and enjoyable as you age gracefully.

Next month, we’ll conclude this series by revealing the final five genius remodeling ideas. These concepts will complete the transformation of your home into a space where you can age gracefully, surrounded by the elegance and functionality you deserve.

For expert guidance in implementing these remodeling ideas, feel free to get in touch with Gordon Reese Design Build today!

Unleash Your Inner Trailblazer: Join the Ultimate Adventure with CCCMTB

By Gordon Reese, Resident since 2008

Attentionmiddle and high school students! Are you ready to embark on an exhilarating journey with the Contra Costa Composite Mountain Bike (CCCMTB) team? We’re not just about biking – we’re a supportive family dedicated to pushing your limits, fostering friendships, and igniting personal growth.

Girls, this is your time to shine! CCCMTB is passionate about empowering young women, breaking gender barriers, and conquering challenges together. Join us in forging a path where strength, determination, and camaraderie know no bounds.

No matter your skill level, CCCMTB welcomes you into an inclusive community where you’ll find your place on the track and form lasting connections. Our experienced coaches tailor training to your needs, ensuring you gain confidence both on and off the trails.

Beyond biking, CCCMTB instills life skills like teamwork, discipline, and resilience that will serve you well beyond the trails. Join us to unlock your potential and embark on an unforgettable adventure.

Ready to embrace this transformative journey? Visit us at https://cccmtb.com/ to learn more and become a part of the empowering Contra Costa Composite Mountain Bike team.

In conclusion, CCCMTB is your gateway to empowerment, friendship, and conquering new horizons.

*About the author: Gordon Reese, one of the dedicated coaches and Design Build professional, helps individuals in the Walnut Creek area create living spaces that reflect their unique preferences.*

Income Inequality

By Daniel Pikovskiy, Resident since 2004

Northgate is my home. It has always been my home and it will always be my home no matter where I end up. I’m Daniel Pikovskiy and I have lived in the Northgate community for my whole life. As an active member of the community, I have been involved in everything from youth sports to local charities. From the earliest chapters of my academic journey at Valle Verde Elementary, through the formative years spent at Foothill Middle School, and culminating at Northgate High School, I have been shaped and molded by the guidance of wonderful teachers and role models around me. Now, as I enter into my second year of college at the University of California, Los Angeles, I reflect back on the impact that my community has had on me and how I can strive to reciprocate that impact. In pursuit of that endeavor, I’ve worked to pinpoint specific areas that I believe are most in need of new ideas and initiatives. For me, one of those areas is the economic disparity among population in the United States.

The stark and ever-growing gap between the wealthy and lowerclass in the US has always bothered me, driving me to take action. I first recall noticing this problem within our society during my time volunteering at the Monument Crisis Center in Concord. I was just a freshman in high school, but I noticed how the elementary school students that I was mentoring did not have the same school supplies and materials that I was fortunate to have. I couldn’t help but notice that when it came time for pick-up, parents would show up late, looking tired and stressed. I realized the constant financial burden that these people were forced to withstand and decided that I wanted to get involved in helping out.

To learn more about this issue, I joined the Infinite Finance Club at UCLA, where we focus on teaching financial literacy to underprivileged high school students. Witnessing the positive impact

we make on these young lives fuels my desire to continue working toward closing the wealth gap in America.

I first came across Capitalists for Shared Income1 (C4SI) back in May, when I was searching for a local non-profit with which to get involved. I was astonished by the similarities between the goals I had been working so hard to accomplish and C4SI’s mission. C4SI not only puts cash in the hands of those living in poverty, but aims to build a sovereign wealth fund for and from Capitalism, invested for the benefit of those left behind. It accepts donations both for the investment pool and immediate purchase of debit cards and distributes its debit cards through other 501(c)(3) public charities working with people living in poverty. C4SI distributes cards through Trinity Center here in Walnut Creek, and four other charities across the country.

I instantly knew that I wanted to get involved, so I reached out to C4SI’s visionary founder, Mr. Bram Zeigler. Bram and I discussed several ways in which I could assist C4SI, including soliciting local businesses to become C4SI Business Partners. In a matter of weeks, I was already at work striving to build a network of business partners by reaching out to local small businesses.

Going from storefront to storefront, pitching C4SI and our mission to complete strangers was no walk in the park, to say the least. Obviously, this endeavor led me to more rejections than I could count, but each one taught me a different lesson and helped me with my next pitch. With each business I approached, I felt more comfortable and confident presenting C4SI’s mission. This experience not only taught me how to learn from rejection, but it showed me the way in which businesses operate and work alongside one another.

I have learned many lessons this summer working with Bram, and C4SI has empowered me with the belief that I can make a tangible difference in my community. With its cash supplements to those in poverty, C4SI has already made a significant impact in the East Bay Area. As the organization expands its reach nationwide, I am filled with excitement and anticipation for what the future holds.

1 For more information about C4SI, visit their website (https://www.capitalists4si. org/) and follow them on social media.

The economy and markets made progress toward regaining balance in the first half of 2023, but more work lies ahead

By Chris Held, Element Wealth Management

Our 2023 investing outlook started with a theme of returning to normalcy. Considering 2022’s market volatility and the aftereffects of the pandemic, the idea of finding balance was certainly a welcomed change. It’s a theme we could all embrace six months ago and what we will continue to rally around through year-end. That’s not to say that 2023 hasn’t come with its own set of challenges. We saw two regional banks fail in rapid-fire succession in March—and another closed its doors in May. Collectively representing over $530 billion in assets, the trio ranks as the second, third, and fourth largest bank failures to date. We also held our breath as a last minute deal to raise the debt limit came together as the clock ticked closer to default. Despite the market gyrations these events caused and a banking sector still on tenterhooks, the overall financial system seems stable.

Counterbalancing the challenges, some bright spots include:

• Inflation is under 5% at home, significantly lower than its 8.3% level this time last year.

• The fed funds rate has potentially reached its apex with the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) quarter percent rate increase in May

• Global inflation has ticked down from its 8.7% high in 2022, and is following a slow descent to a projected 6.5% for 2023

By and large, these are things we know, definitively or directionally, a guiding force that shapes our perspective on the next six months or so. Like anything, they come with some potential opportunities for investors—opportunities that may present themselves in international equities, core bonds (particularly if the Fed is indeed done raising rates), and industrials to name a few.

On the flip side, there are uncertainties out there. Recession is probably the biggest unknown, with some of the biggest questions around when it might hit, how long it might last, and how significant it could it be. That said, any recession that occurs would appear to be more in the mild range at this point. Perhaps recession is the largest unknown, but we should also factor in the possibility for interest-rate volatility. For example, rates could move higher if inflation remains stubbornly high. Or, they could see a fairly sizable move lower in the event of recession.

Ultimately, how rate volatility resolves itself will be a big driver for markets. Clearly Element Wealth Management and The LPL Research Team do not have a crystal ball to determine what the near term holds for markets. Still, our team has taken the necessary steps to properly allocate accounts in an effort to manage risk and will continue to work tirelessly to help you achieve your long-term goals. Please contact us if you have any questions.

Chris J. Held and Cortland L. Golightly are Registered Representatives with, and securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC. www.elementwm.com 925-433-9533