Northgate Living CA September 2020

Mailed Directly to Northgate Residents and Published Online

SEPTEMBER 2020

Northgate LIVING CA

Meet the Gazdars: Bonded through baseball Photo by Julie Cheshire Photography

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SEPTEMBER 2020

Table of Contents Letter to Residents

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Expert Contributors List

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Meet the Gazdars: Bonded through baseball

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ARF Adoption Stars

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Real Estate Statistics

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Calendar of Events

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100+ Women Who Care of Contra Costa County

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Eliminating Fire Hazards Community Safety

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Walnut Creek Historical Society Gets Creative with their Holiday Traditions

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Cover Article

Pet Adoption Corner

Charity Spotlight

Charity Spotlight

Show us your best shot!

Mt. Diablo School District adapts to distance learning for 2020-2012 school year

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Fall Sports delayed to December Our Schools

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New art downtown inspires residents to visit local businesses

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What Should You Consider When Planning Your Backyard Remodel?

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“Labor of Love” stitches dresses and masks for those in need

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New Regional Park in Diablo Valley

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Our Schools

Arts and Culture

Expert Contributor

Acts of Kindness

In our backyard

‘Tis the (Veggie) Season Recipe

Front Door Service brings books to residents during pandemic

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Padis Jewelry – Your Forevermark Experts in the San Francisco Bay Area!

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Our Community Library

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.

In our September issue of Northgate Living CA you will meet the Gazdar family. They are a family bonded through baseball. And since baseball is back in swing on a national level, it seems a perfect time to introduce them to our readers. 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.

This month we also feature good news about several charities and neighbors doing good work in the community and important news from Mt. Diablo School Board members about how our local schools are being creative with distance learning. Wishing all of our Northgate area students a great back to school experience in this unique year of 2020!

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.

Check out our Facebook www.facebook.com/northgatelivingca and Instagram @northgatelivingca. We look forward to connecting with the community and spotlighting our sponsors in new ways!

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.

The Rita Dhillon Team

Kara Navolio Northgate Living CA Content Coordinator Resident Since 1991

#1 Northgate Realtor *Total Sales Volume in 2019

Just Sold 29 Diablo Ridge Lane, Walnut Creek $3,050,000 720 Quail Crest Drive, Walnut Creek $1,800,000 640 Quail Crest Drive, Walnut Creek $1,715,000 145 Brandywine Way, Walnut Creek $1,250,000

Rita Dhillon 925.570.1010 Rita.Dhillon@compass.com DRE 01109990 www.RitaDhillonTeam.com 4

SEPTEMBER 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. Zachary was a patient first after a “mysterious illness” caused her to be written off by conventional medicine as permanently disabled and told she’d never recover. She refused to listen, used Functional Medicine to fight back and astounded all with her return to health. She then founded Body Love Cafe so others may have the same healing opportunity. Dr. Zachary is passionate and determined to help her patients thrive.

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

Meet the Gazdars: Bonded through baseball

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

Christian and Carlie’s wedding in Napa. Photo credit: Brandon J Ferlin

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une 29 is an important day for the Gazdars – it’s the day Michael and Teri went on their first date, the date he proposed and the date they married, all within the 2 year span of 1989 to 1991. “In 1989 I was finishing up at Life Chiropractic College West in San Lorenzo,” explained Michael. “Teri worked in the Produce Department at the local Safeway. I started talking to her and asked her if she needed a chiropractor because I was looking for patients to see in the school clinic. She said she already had a chiropractor, so then I asked her to go out with me. She said yes, then I lost her phone number for the next 6 months. I finally found it and called her because she was never at the store when I was and her coworkers were getting suspicious of me.”

After graduating from UC Berkeley in 1984 and Life Chiropractic in 1989, Michael started his private practice, John Muir Chiropractic Center, in 1990.

In 2008 he also became the team chiropractor for the San Francisco Giants, balancing time between his practice in Walnut Creek and days in San Francisco when the Giants were at home. As a result, he has three World Championship rings from the 2010, 2012 and 2014 World Series titles, which he plans on someday giving one to each of their three sons. Michael is also an author with a best-selling book Taking Your Back to the Future: How to get a pain-free back and total health with chiropractic care. He also has written two novels: The Lost El Dorado (a treasure hunt adventure) and its sequel The Return to the Lost El Dorado (coming out fall 2020). His author website is michaelgazdar.com.

Teri grew up in San Lorenzo and worked at Safeway for 17 years. She became a full-time mom when their 2nd son was born, and later a home school teacher to all three of their boys, Christian, Brandon and Jonathan, whom she homeschooled through 8th grade.

Baseball runs deep in the Gazdar family. Michael coached all three sons from Tee-ball through Walnut Creek Little League and Walnut Creek PONY, a total of 17 years. All three boys then played baseball for Northgate High School and went on to play in college. Teri has cheered from the stands for over 20 years, and has more years still to come!

Christian graduated from Northgate High School in 2012. After playing on Northgate’s baseball team for four years, he went on to play at Napa Valley College and Chapman University. He married his high school sweetheart,

Carlie Jochner, in 2019. He works as a fitness manager at Crunch Fitness in San Francisco and also at the Jochner family winery in Walnut Creek, Shadowbrook Winery.

Brandon, 24, went on to play baseball at Los Medanos College after his time on Northgate’s baseball team.

He hurt his shoulder, which ended his baseball career.

But luckily he had another sport he loves: golf. He now shares his time between working for Taylor Made Golf and perfecting his game in order to make it onto one of the professional golf tours.

Jonathan just graduated with the class of 2020, the year that graduates walked across the sports field with only 9 other classmates, spaced 6 feet apart. He will be attending San Jose State this fall, playing on their baseball team. Both Jonathan and Brandon danced in Northgate’s Dance Production class. They enjoyed the dancing, but believed that it also helped them with their footwork for playing the infield.

Two lovable dogs round out the family. First is 8-yearold Simba, a Labradoodle named after the adorable cub in The Lion King. Then there’s Drake, a 6-year-old Siberian Husky who is Simba’s best friend.

The Gazdars enjoyed trips to Disneyland and The Monterey Bay Aquarium when the boys were younger, but as baseball became a huge part of their lives, their vacations became centered around baseball tournaments in Southern California and Arizona.

In 2018 they all enjoyed a trip to Kauai to celebrate Christian’s engagement to Carlie.

Their home on Northgate Road is located on the previous horse ranch owned by the Warren family.

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SEPTEMBER 2020

Drake

Jonathan was part of Northgate’s Class of 2020

They built it from scratch in 1999, moving here from Danville. As Michael says, “We love our neighborhood. All of our neighbors are nice; we all celebrate holidays and special occasions together and also comfort each other through the hard times. We also watch each other’s backs and know when there are cars in the neighborhood that maybe shouldn’t be there. The Walnut Creek community is really strong and is there for each other.” Sounds like moving to Northgate was a grand slam!

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.

Simba

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 7

Pet Corner

Azula

ARF Adoption Stars Submitted by ARF

Sirius

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.

One-and-a-half-year-old Azula is a hilarious goofball who has tons of energy. She’s basically a big puppy who loves bouncing around and tossing toys in the air. She’s looking for a home where she can continue training and keep busy with puzzle toys and tons of affection. She currently weighs 42 pounds.

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.

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Sirius is a very handsome guy with sleek black fur and a great disposition.

He purrs up a storm for petting and also likes playing. He’ll be a great addition to a family who has experience with playful cats.

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.

SEPTEMBER 2020

Active Listings Address List Price

Real Estate

Real Estate is proudly sponsored by The Rita Dhillon Team

BD

3739 Shadowbrook Ct $3,500,000 3716 Northgate Woods Ct $3,150,000 2484 Deer Valley Ln $1,824,000 3613 Shukla Ct $1,699,000 426 Kit Fox Ct $1,550,000

Pending Listings Address

List Price

3715 Rancho Estates Ct 488 Walnut Ave 2659 Cassandra Ct 404 Boundary Oak Way 4020 Arbolado Dr 752 Woodwind Pl 862 Stonehaven Dr 3685 Vista Charonoaks

$2,890,000 $1,929,000 $1,850,000 $1,675,000 $1,675,000 $1,650,000 $1,399,000 $1,390,000

Sold Listings Address List Price 2726 Carina Ct 446 Boundary Oak Way 243 Wiget Ln 405 Boundary Oak Way 220 Tamarisk Dr

5 4 4 4 5

BD 4 4 4 6 4 4 4 5

BD

$1,800,000 $1,519,000 $1,500,000 $1,495,000 $1,445,000

5 4 4 4 5

BT

SQFT

4.5 4.5 3 2.5 3.5

5,222 5,143 4,507 3,171 3,389

BT

SQFT

4.5 2.5 3.5 3 3 3 3 3

4,223 2,271 3,786 3,381 2,948 3,045 2,325 3,502

BT

SQFT

3.5 3 2 3 3

3,236 3,122 2,308 3,026 2,837

DOM 3 56 43 28 13

Real Estate Listings in Northgate 8/18/2020

DOM 8 2 9 5 10 9 4 144

DOM

Sold Price

21 6 15 27 22

$1,765,000 $1,750,000 $1,500,000 $1,430,000 $1,445,000

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 agentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

#1Â Northgate Realtor *Total Sales Volume in 2019

Just Sold 29 Diablo Ridge Lane, Walnut Creek $3,050,000 720 Quail Crest Drive, Walnut Creek $1,800,000 640 Quail Crest Drive, Walnut Creek $1,715,000 145 Brandywine Way, Walnut Creek $1,250,000

Rita Dhillon 925.570.1010 Rita.Dhillon@compass.com DRE 01109990 www.RitaDhillonTeam.com Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 9

September

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.

The Heritage Walk features some 60 sites — from Botelho’s Island (now Broadway Plaza) to the Nuthouse (now the Lesher Center for the Arts).

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 smartphones, how to access a mobile app.

Cost: FREE www.wchistory.org/events/historical-tours/

Wed., Sept. 23 – Fri., Sept. 25

LibraryFest 2020 @ online The Walnut Creek Library Foundation, in partnership with the Contra Costa Libraries and the City of Walnut Creek, is hosting a virtual celebration of and for our Walnut Creek community libraries.

It will be a celebration of the essential role our libraries play in bringing our diverse Walnut Creek community together and a look forward to the time when our libraries can reopen, and we can come together once again. Join us for five lively programs and the LibraryFest celebration and fundraiser event. Find program information and register for these free events at wclibrary. org/libraryfest or call 925-935-5395.

Thurs., Sept. 24

Virtual Remodeling Seminar @The comfort of your own home Are you, a neighbor, a family 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/remodelingseminar or call (925) 885-3770 today!

Every Monday

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

Save the Date October

Live!From the Library: The Great Escape Shackleton’s Grand Antarctic Adventure Part 1: Wednesday, October 21 | 7-8:30pm Part 2: Thursday, October 22 | 7-8:30pm Ernest Shackleton set out with 27 men to cross the Antarctic Continent, but before landing, his ship was locked into the ice and eventually crushed. The men were stranded on the Weddell Sea ice pack, and only barely managed to escape. Landing on the extremely remote Elephant Island, Shackleton left 21 of the men to survive while he and five others made an incredible small boat journey. Learn about one of the greatest rescue stories of all time, with original photographs, as well as photographs from Mr. Jordan’s recent trip to the area. Mark Jordan is an intrepid adventurer and lecturer with an abiding interest in exploration, especially Polar exploration. He recently adventured to Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands,tracing much of the route taken by Sir Ernest Shackleton in his EnduranceExpedition. Mr. Jordan, a retired attorney, teaches and lectures on the Lewis and Clark Expedition and Shakespeare at various venues including the Walnut Creek Library, the Blackhawk Museum and Cal Sate University East Bay. Register at wclibrary.org/live or call 925-935-5395

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SEPTEMBER 2020

Charity Spotlight

100+ Women Who Care of Contra Costa County

By Sheila Gilchrist, Resident since 1994

W

ant to make a meaningful impact on non-profits in Contra Costa County? Have limited time but want to make a difference in our community? This is the group for you! Please join me and other women in your area and support Contra Costa County non-profits in a profound way.

•

100+ Women meets once a quarter for 1 hour in Walnut Creek (4 hour time commitment per year). At each meeting we select 1 non-profit to support and each member donates $100 directly to the charity (a $400 commitment per year). Every dollar goes directly to the cause we choose to support!

•

THERE IS STRENGTH IN NUMBERS! Your $100 per quarter gift becomes a gift of $10,000 per quarter to a local charity.

•

If you are interested, email: bartlow.kristin@gmail.com

•

Our next meeting is Oct. 20 at 8 pm via Zoom.

•

Please join us and give back!

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 11

Community Safety

Eliminating Fire Hazards

By Judy Caponigro, Resident since 2016, Northgate Area CERT Team

W

ildfire Season is upon us and in addition to creating an escape plan and “go” bags, it is also important to eliminate as many fire hazards surrounding the outside of your home as possible. Every year, fires threaten homes and properties as a result of unnecessary combustible debris and vegetation. It is every property owner’s responsibility to eliminate these fire hazards on their property that may endanger their neighbors and the community at large.

The Contra Costa County Fire District’s Exterior Hazard Control Unit’s Weed Abatement program provides information on how to, where possible, reduce the severity of wildfires. The District has established minimum standards for weed abatement and guidelines for creating defensible space. Details regarding these minimum standards can be found at www.cccfpd.org/wildfireprep.

In general, “weeds” mean all wild plants growing on streets or private property. These include sagebrush, chaparral, dry grass, stubble, brush, and litter, or other flammable materials which are capable of being ignited and endangering the public safety by creating a fire hazard.

Defensible Space is an area around a building in which vegetation, debris and other types of combustible fuels have been treated, cleared, or reduced to slow the spread of fire to and from the building.

The most important person in protecting houses from wildfire is not a firefighter, but the property owner. It is the action taken by the owner before the wildfire occurs that is most critical. Please spend some time walking your property and determining if any of your weeds or vegetation pose a fire hazard. If they do, please clear before a fire begins.

Please note: If you have concerns about brush or debris on an adjoining property, please contact Kathy Woofter, Fire Prevention Technician, KWoof@cccfpd.org or by phone 925-941-3300 x1549.

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

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SEPTEMBER 2020

Charity Spotlight

Walnut Creek Historical Society Gets Creative with their Holiday Traditions

By Judy Caponigro, Resident since 2016

F

or the past 37 years, the Walnut Creek Historical Society has hosted a Holiday Victorian Tea at the Shadelands Ranch Museum. Due to public health indoor social distancing requirements, the WCHS finds it necessary to cancel this incredibly popular event for the safety of our supporters and volunteers.

The Holiday Victorian Tea is Walnut Creek Historical Society’s biggest fundraiser of the year and your support will help offset our loss of income in 2020. This fundraiser will help the WCHS by generating funds for the Museum, Third Grade Living History Program and guided Downtown Walking Tours.

Over 1,400 people annually make the Holiday Victorian Tea part of their own holiday traditions, and the WCHS doesn’t want anyone to miss out on experiencing a new version of the tea in the comfort of their homes. In lieu of hosting the Tea at Shadelands Museum, the WCHS has created a “Tea for Two” box containing the following special items:

For a cost of $44 per box ($22 per person), you will receive all of the above packed in an attractive box. Start your holiday shopping early and purchase multiple boxes of this thoughtful and perfect gift.

• • • •

We offer contact-free delivery within Contra Costa County at no extra charge or pick up at Shadelands Ranch Museum. In addition, we will mail boxes to any of your recipients within the Continental United States via two-day Priority Mail (shipping charges apply). All boxes will be delivered, shipped or be ready for pick up between November 28 and December 13.

• •

Pre-measured Scone Dry Mix Homemade Lemon Curd Delicious Shortbread Cookies Shadelands Secret Special Blend Holiday Tea Two Tea Infusers Two WCHS Commemorative Cookbooks

Please go to www.wchistory.org to order your boxes from now until November 6, 2020.

This unique fundraiser will enable everyone to enjoy the WCHS holiday tradition with friends and family until we can all be together again at Shadelands Ranch Museum.

Please note: The 38th Annual Holiday Faire will still take place at Shadelands Ranch Museum (2660 Ygnacio Valley Road) pursuant to County Health Regulations requiring face masks and social distancing.

Do your shopping locally for beautiful handmade gifts and delicious food items.

Please stop by November 28 through December 13, 2020 from 10am-4pm daily.

Show us your best shot!

Submitted by Meg Sexton, Resident since 2011

T

his photo of my daughter was taken on the upper trail of the Lafayette Reservoir at sunset. The Lafayette upper rim trail is one of our favorite spots to leave our suburban tree lined streets and ‘escape’ into nature.

We’ve spent hours on those paths chasing lizards, examining the different types of plants, and keeping our eyes out for deer and other wildlife. It’s been the perfect escape, so close to our own neighborhood.

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 13

Our Schools

Mt. Diablo School District adapts to distance learning for 2020-2021 school year

By Cherise Khaund (Resident since 2012) and Brian Lawrence (Resident since 2012), MDUSD Board Members

H

ello Northgate neighborhood from your MDUSD area school board members, Cherise Khaund and Brian Lawrence. Cherise is in her 2nd year on the Board, and Brian is finishing out his term by serving as Board President. We are both parents of MDUSD students as well, navigating these new waters of how to support our kids in distance learning, along with so many of you.

We want to share with you the incredible leadership and creativity of our local schools as they reopen this fall in an entirely new way, and to thank our entire community for all of your support, generosity and grace.

First of all, Northgate High School has a new principal. Please welcome Kelly Cooper! She was previously Vice Principal at Northgate, and we are thrilled to see her now at the helm. Here’s what Principal Cooper had to say: “This pandemic forces changes to comprehensive public schools and the methodologies that teachers have relied on for decades, and that might not all be bad. We have an opportunity to redesign engagement and curriculum delivery, to go deeper into our technological resources and advancements, and to look at ways to support individual students to a greater extent. I hope that we can hold on to some of the new ideas and strategies, remember what worked, and apply it to our practice when we are ‘back to normal.’”

At all of our schools, the golden rule right now is Safety First! The way Foothill Middle School managed “walk through” is a great example of finding creative ways to accomplish safety. Thanks to advance planning, Principal Vaiana and her team figured out how to convert walk through to a drive through. Families were pleased to experience the quick and efficient process

that often took only 5 minutes to receive textbooks and Chromebooks: “As we enter the upcoming school year I am working forward with grace, patience, and a ‘can-do’ attitude. We as a community will be able to move through this together, with those focus points so that we can be successful in navigating the path ahead for your child/children.” - Principal Vaiana And we’re all learning together how to use online tools for better communication and learning.

Be sure to connect in with your parent club to stay informed, like Walnut Acres Elementary Parent Faculty Club did when they held this zoom meeting with Principal Luong before school started to answer questions and view potential schedules: “Our focus at the beginning of the school year will be to devote time to get to know our students, build classroom community, and meet the social emotional needs of our students. We will also be working with the students on how to navigate various online resources and platforms. More than ever, instruction will need to be concise, intentional, with shorter, but more frequent, delivery and check ins. While there is a learning curve for all of us, it is also a great time for us to be creative and innovative with technology, teaching and learning.” - Principal Luong

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And did you know Valle Verde Elementary teacher Ms. Nakashima has been featured to present her engaging distance learning strategies? Here she is sharing her expertise at the Online Learning and Resources webinar: “I’m excited to partner with the school community for the success of all students. Although we will begin the school year unlike any other year, we know that we must continue working together to create positive outcomes and the best learning opportunities for students. We are shifting gears to start our school year with Distance Learning. Staff will continue to focus on instruction while further developing our “21st Century Learning Community” using online platforms and programs. At Valle Verde, we understand that students come first, so we look forward to ensuring that all of our students’ needs are met through two-way communication and partnership with our community.” - Principal Perkins For more information: • Find Superintendent Dr. Clark’s weekly updates at https://mdusd.org/superintendent • Follow Brian Lawrence on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/briantlawrence • Read Cherise Khaund’s blog: https://www. cherisekhaund.com/

SEPTEMBER 2020

Our Schools

Fall Sports delayed to December

By Zack Torrey, Northgate High School Assistant Varsity Football Coach

T

he California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) announced on July 20th it will be implementing a modified season of sport for the 2020 and 2021 high school year. This will mean that traditional fall high school sports like football, water polo, cross country and volleyball will now begin official practice on December 14 and games will commence in January. Traditional winter sports like basketball, wrestling and soccer will now be a spring sport alongside baseball / softball, track and others.

That season begins in late February and early March and will extend into late June to allow for state tournaments. Our area is governed by the North Coast Section who has confirmed it will be following the CIF schedule. This will make our school sports teams eligible for state championship tournaments. Provided the CIF plan is allowed by county health guidelines at the time of its commencement, it should be a very busy and exciting first half of the year for high school sports in 2021!

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Arts and Culture

New art downtown inspires residents to visit local businesses

By Jane Emanuel, Art Task Force for Walnut Creek Rebound

S

ome trees in Walnut Creek’s downtown are sporting new summer outfits!

These “Yarn Bombs” are part of the city’s summer Rebound program that includes outdoor eating areas, music and art to encourage residents to return to the downtown (socially distancing, of course) for safe eating and shopping.

I was asked to be on an Art Task Force for the Walnut Creek Rebound effort. I serve on the W.C. Arts Commission and have greatly appreciated the City Council’s continuing support for the arts. I have been a docent at the Bedford Art Gallery for over 20 years and have developed a special interest in Public Art. I lead Public Art Walking Tours in normal times and love to witness people’s joy when they come upon a work of art they had never noticed. I thought that Yarn Bombs would create that spark, on a smaller scale of course, during this stressful time! Once you

come upon an art wrapped tree, keep walking and discover another, and another. I know you’ll be smiling under your mask!

In August over a dozen people produced colorful and funky tree art. Docents from the Bedford, including me, teamed up to stitch the pieces onto the trees. Mothers, daughters and even one grandson enthusiastically contributed to this community effort.

How about finding your knitting or crochet needles and gather up all the old the yarn in your closets and try it on a tree at your house? Get your neighbors and friends involved in a Neighborhood Art Bomb, then take an art walk to enjoy the results.

To find out more about Project Rebound, visit walnut-creek.org. See you downtown to check out the art and support the many local businesses that have reopened including retailers and restaurants!

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SEPTEMBER 2020

Expert Contributor

What Should You Consider

When Planning Your Backyard Remodel?

By Gordon Reese, Gordon Reese Design Build, Resident since 2008 based on your lifestyle can help you make the most of the space you have.

Kids and Pets Considering that you’re remodeling your backyard for family use, it’s important to think about your kids and pets, too. If there are little ones at home, it’s highly crucial to take extra safety measures to keep your backyard kid-friendly.

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reating the ideal home isn’t just about interiors, it’s about creating an attractive and functional outdoor environment as well. That’s why more and more homeowners are choosing backyard remodels to create the perfect stay-cation, and to extend entertaining and living areas beyond the walls of their homes. Here we look at some of the points you need to consider for building your dream space.

Lifestyle When you’re thinking about how to redesign your backyard, you need to consider a couple of things – how you use your backyard now, and how you would like to ideally use your backyard in the future.

Whether you want to use your backyard for entertaining, relaxing, playing sports, or all of the above, a carefully planned design

Entertainment Warm summer nights and longer days can’t help but suggest outdoor entertaining.

Adding an outdoor entertainment area is one of the most popular ways to extend home living space. Do you love hosting BBQ parties? A small outdoor kitchen with an earth tone countertop will put everything in place.

For your visitors, a cozy nook can be completed with soft outdoor lounge chairs and plush pillows. A small fire pit on the side is perfect for roasting marshmallows. And of course, keep your backyard welcoming with pleasant landscaping and plants.

The Right Pro With so many options to transform your backyard into your ideal relax and play space, talk to an experienced design build contractor about finding the right backyard remodel solution to add value and beauty to your home.

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L CA Y! LO DA A O IT E T BM ICL SU RT A SEPTEMBER 2020

Acts of Kindness Labor of Love makes dresses for girls in Honduras

“Labor of Love” stitches dresses and masks for those in need

By Lin Ashlock, Resident since 1970

‘L

abor of Love’ is a new ministry at St. Matthew Lutheran Church on Wiget Avenue that began last summer. After losing her husband in the spring of 2019, Suzanne Lape wanted a way to find joy. She got together with a friend to sew and they made 35 dresses for the charity ‘Little Dresses for Africa’, based in Michigan.

Suzanne sent out an invitation through the church for a ‘sewing bee’ at her house, and it was so well attended that a monthly group began. Each dress we make is one of kind! There is one pattern that we make in 4 sizes, and we use whatever we can, even donated pillowcases, turning them into darling dresses with accent fabrics and trims added. A friend going to Honduras offered to take 40 dresses with him and sent us pictures of the girls in their new dresses. They were just precious and inspired us even more. The group created another 265 dresses, sending them again to the “Little Dresses” charity in Michigan.

When ‘shelter-in-place’ hit, the attention was changed to the need for masks. ‘Labor of Love’ made and donated over 400 masks

Masks made by Labor of Love volunteers

to John Muir Hospital as well as filling 300 special orders for the church community and friends. The church then got a request from Berkeley Fung Institute for hospital gowns and over 50 were made.

‘Labor of Love’ members continued to sew remotely and just made and sent 615 masks and 88 dresses to the Navajo Nation in Arizona and Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota. Even while in isolation they continue to work as a team to love and serve God. Note from the content coordinator: In this “Acts of Kindness” column I invite you to share your stories.

Tell us about what you or your neighbors are doing to spread kindness. I hope this will inspire us all to make the world a little nicer.

Please send stories and photos to knavolio@bestversionmedia.com.

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In our backyard

New Regional Park in Diablo Valley

By Dave Mason, Public Information Supervisor , East Bay Regional Park District

E

ast Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors unanimously approved the final land use plan for public access improvements and open space preservation at the Park District’s new 2,540-plusacre Concord Hills Regional Park (working name). The final land use plan includes a joint visitor center with the National Park Service highlighting the history of the Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial and the Diablo Valley, staging areas, and miles of recreational trails for hiking, biking, and nature viewing.

“This is the true culmination of a decades-long community effort,” said Beverly Lane, who has represented Concord on the East Bay Regional Park District Board since 1994. “I’m proud to be part of the Park District and its effort to produce a truly fabulous plan for a new Regional Park in the Diablo Valley.”

“This important land use plan will provide public access, preserve natural habitat, and honor the unique natural and human history of the land,” added Lane.

In July 2019, after a 20+ year community effort, the Park District received possession of 2,216 acres of U.S. Navy property at the

Concord Naval Weapons Station. An additional 327 acres will transfer to the District at a later time.

The final land use plan utilizes existing developed areas and buildings to the greatest extent possible. The final approved plan and the associated environmental analysis permanently preserve 95% of the land as open space and protected habitat.

“Turning the former military base into a world-class park will take very many years and millions of dollars to restore and open,” said East Bay Regional Park District General Manager Robert Doyle.

“However, thanks to the Park District and community’s efforts, 2,500 plus acres of scenic Diablo Valley landscape is permanently protected.”

“The opportunity to partner with the National Park Service to tell the unique and important natural and historic story of the land in a future joint visitor is exciting and rare. We thank National Park Service and all of our partners for their help in making this world-class park a reality,” added Doyle.

Recipe

‘Tis the (Veggie) Season

By Lisa Assoni, Short Cut Cook, Resident since 2012

Yes, I do love my assorted frozen veggies, but fresh is best!

Feast your eyes on this. Just look at the assortment I purchased from our local market.

Vegetables are loaded with essential nutrients, and pack a lot of nutrition with minimum calories. They’re full of vitamins, minerals, and help sustain hunger while helping build a substance called phytonutrients. They’re plant compounds that provide good health benefits.

Pick your favorites and start making a ShortCut cook healthy meal.

• • • • • • • • •

2 Tbs. butter 1 red peppers, diced -remove seeds ½ cup diced cabbage (optional) 1 glove minced garlic 1 Tbs. minced dried onion, optional but packed with flavor 1 tomato, sliced thin 1 medium size zucchini, sliced thin 1 tsp. salt ½ cup low sodium vegetable broth

In a large non-stick fry pan, heat butter until brown. Toss in all veggies, stir well, cover, and steam for about 4 minutes, medium heat. Stir well. Sear vegetables until golden brown. (Extra protein) toss in 2 eggs, scramble till thoroughly cooked.

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SEPTEMBER 2020

Our Community Library

Front Door Service

brings books to residents during pandemic

By Ali Birnbach, Community Library Manager

F

irst off, we hope everyone is doing well out there. Since opening for Front Door Service on June 15th, Ygnacio Valley Library has been buzzing! We’ve been following safety protocols and our pickup-by-appointment service has gone well. It has been inspiring to see so many materials going out to excited customers; from June 16th to July 17th, we checked out a total of 7,760 items for pickup.

Every day, staff has been processing holds, helping with eBooks and eAudiobooks over the phone, and preparing Grab Bags for pickup. You can choose up to two staff-assembled Grab Bags with a selection of five books from the following categories: children’s picture books, early elementary, upper elementary, early readers, or family audiobooks.

As of August 22, however, our Ygnacio branch has closed and is now being used as a county COVID testing site. You can still use the Front Door Service at the Concord or downtown Walnut Creek branch. If you haven’t tried it yet, Front Door Service is simple: request the items that you want via our online catalog, wait for the

notification that your items have arrived, then schedule a pickup date, time and location. When you arrive, you’ll see a number to call or text, and the materials will be brought to table out front. Don’t forget to bring your library card and your mask with you. All books needing to be returned should also be taken to any Contra Costa County Library as the Ygnacio book drop will also be closed.

In addition to Front Door Service, our library system has started a staff blog. Check out our posts on bicycle culture, cooking, the California State Library’s Covid-19 Diaries, and more.

Additionally, we’re regularly highlighting new staff recommendation lists to help you discover fresh and exciting reads to suit your mood. You can find our blog and recommendation lists at ccclib.org.

A huge thank-you to our amazing community for your continued support. It’s been wonderful to see and hear from each of you, whether it’s from a distance at the table out front or over the phone. Stay safe and be well.

California COVID Diaries

By Contra Costa County Library

E

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.

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Expert Contributor

Padis Jewelry – Your Forevermark Experts in the San Francisco Bay Area!

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

O

n the hunt for the perfect piece of diamond jewelry? Look no further than Padis Jewelry. With three of the top six Forevermark Diamond experts in the country, there is no more knowledgeable team! Vic, Valerie and Laurel, managers and long time members of the Padis Jewelry family, have all achieved Carat Club status with Forevermark in 2020, which highlights their expertise while assisting clients with selecting responsibly-sourced diamonds that provide the best quality, beauty and value.

As part of the prestigious Carat Club, Padis team members were able to visit the country of Botswana to enhance their understanding of the journey of a diamond from mine to finger. As a part of the trip, they met with the First Lady of Botswana, Neo Jane Masisif, and they also got to experience and appreciate the socio-economic impact of each diamond mined in improving the livelihoods of communities in producer countries.

Forevermark demonstrates values that transcend the finished product and its mining, making lasting contributions to mining communities through educational, medical and social initiatives and through actions taken to redress the environmental impact of mining.

There are also dedicated programs for career development for women and education of children.

With the these experts and their firsthand experience in Botswana, the largest selection of Forevermark in the San Francisco Bay Area and a new Forevermark location in the Bay Area East Bay – an area most of the Padis team calls home – clients can experience the exceptional collection of loose diamonds, engagement rings and fine jewelry all under one roof.

Forevermark’s passion for diamonds is matched by their deep sense of connection to the natural world, which they are dedicated to protecting for future generations. Forevermark is committed to the preservation and protection of habitats, their species, and the wider natural world.

In short, a Forevermark by Padis diamond is a diamond you can wear proudly. Padis Jewelry has an extensive selection of Forevermark fine jewelry for you to experience and

try on, and we look forward to welcoming you to any of our five locations.

We sincerely thank you for allowing us to be a part of your life’s most precious moments.

Email us at concierge@padisjewelry.com or visit our website at www.padisjewelry.com to book your appointment either virtually or in person.

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SEPTEMBER 2020

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