Northgate Living CA September 21

Mailed Directly to Northgate Residents and Published Online

SEPTEMBER 2021

Northgate LIVING CA

Meet the Hirsches: A huge part of Northgate’s swimming community Photo by Julie Cheshire Photography

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SEPTEMBER 2021

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.

Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2021 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

In our September issue of Northgate Living CA you will meet the Hirsch family. They are a family very connected to the swim community in Northgate. Last month we met the coach of Rancho San Miguel, and this month we meet the recently retired coach of Scottsdale. 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 the re-opening of in-person learning at our local schools from MDUSD board member Cherise Khaund. We are also looking for local sports stories; please see page 19 to learn about our new sports writer and how to contact her with your stories. Wishing all of our Northgate area students a great back to school experiencefor the 21-22 school year!

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,

Kara Navolio Northgate Living CA Content Coordinator Resident Since 1991

Find us online NorthgateLivingCA www.NorthgateLivingCA.com

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SEPTEMBER 2021

Expert Contributors Dentist

Dr. Brian Hockel graduated from UCSF School of Dentistry in 1989 and has practiced dentistry for over 30 years next door to the Ygnacio Valley Library on Oak Grove Road. The recipient of numerous awards, Dr. Hockel is active in several professional organizations. He combines his cosmetic, orthodontic, airway treatment and gnathology skills to bring about great changes in people’s smiles and health.

Design, Build & Remodeling

With over 35 years in business, our National Award-Winning Design Build firm has abundant experience with creating your dream space as your friend in the remodeling business! We design and remodel kitchens, baths, whole houses, and additions; from concept through completion, our highly skilled team of professionals are knowledgeable when it comes to transforming your living space. Great ideas, communication, and execution distinguish our process with award-winning results!

Financial Advice

For over 17 years, Chris has been working with families in Walnut Creek and the surrounding area. As a Certified Financial Planner™, he engages people with all aspects of money management. Originally from Plymouth, Minnesota, he is a huge fan of the outdoors, vintage cars and Minnesota Vikings. Chris has given back to the community by coaching and mentoring youth, organizing food drives, and lending professional services for those in need. He lives in the Diablo Shadows neighborhood with his wife and son.

Functional Medicine & Nutrition

Dr. Brandy Zachary, DC, IFMCP discovered the power of Functional Medicine first hand when a “mystery illness” left her declared permanently disabled. Unwilling to accept that diagnosis, she fought back and launched Body Love Cafe, an award-winning holistic health clinic.

BLC is all about natural medicine that meets cutting-edge science to provide answers as to why you don’t feel well. We hear you. We see you.

We believe you. It’s not in your head and we’ve got the technique and labs to show why.

Patients have said “Dr. Zachary figures out why you feel like crap but your MD says you’re fine.”

Hardscape Restoration

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

Insurance Services

Crusberg-Decker is your local independent insurance agency with experience in both personal and commercial insurance. As independent agents, representing only “A” rated insurance companies, Patrick and Scott work with their clients to provide proper coverage, competitive premiums, and outstanding service. They take pride in establishing relationships and offering personalized service to each and every client.

Jewelry, Diamonds & Timepieces

Steve and Judy Padis own and operate Padis Jewelry, which has four locations in the San Francisco Bay Area. They founded the company in 1974 and are proud to have earned a reputation as one of the finest jewelers in San Francisco, serving generations of clients for their most precious moments in life, from engagement to anniversary to milestone gifts. Padis Jewelry maintains top-tier relationships with the most sought-after designers including Tacori, Forevermark, Verragio, Breitling, Tag Heuer, and Roberto Coin. As members of the American Gem Society, Padis is among the top 5% of jewelers across the country.

Life Dental & Orthodontics Brian J. Hockel, DDS 925-357-3630 admin@lifedentalortho.com www.lifedentalortho.com Gordon Reese Gordon Reese Design Build (925) 885-3770 Marketing@GordonReese.com GordonReese.com Element Wealth Management Chris J. Held, CFP®, CRPS® CA Insurance #0E56816 (925) 433-9533 chris.held@elementwm.com www.elementwm.com Body Love Cafe Dr. Brandy Zachary, DC, IFMCP (925) 788-6300 Team@BodyLoveCafe.com www.BodyLoveCafe.com Concrete Paver Restorations Drew Bogetti 408-828-6903 www.cprpaver.com drew@cprpaver.com Crusberg-Decker Insurance Services, Inc. Scott Decker and Patrick Decker (925) 239-0004 Scott@cdinsurance.com Patrick@cdinsurance.com http://www.cdinsurance-walnutcreek.com/ Steve Padis Steve Padis Jewelry info@padisjewelry.com www.padisjewelry.com

Landscaping

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

Pacific Landscaping has been a premier provider of landscaping services in Contra Costa since 1986. We provide 1st class quality at competitive rates. For three decades, we’ve upheld a reputation of integrity and professionalism by strict dedication to our motto: “When Promised, As Promised.”

Real Estate

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

Reverse Mortgages

Annemarie’s been a reverse mortgage specialist for 6+ years. She grew up in Walnut Creek and graduated from Carondelet High School.

She is a travel enthusiast and unapologetic foodie, including knowing the profound effect a great cup of coffee or a smooth glass of wine can have. She’s passionate about the changes this product brings about in her clients’ lives and ensures they feel important, safe and honored.

Sports Medicine

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

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.

Rita Dhillon Compass Real Estate (925) 570-1010 Rita.Dhillon@compass.com www.RitaDhillonTeam.com Open Mortgage Annemarie Drosos 530-736-2295 annemariedrosos@openmortgage.com https://openmortgage.com/annemarie-drosos Precision Sports Medicine & Chiropractic Dr. Christopher Matock, DC CCSP (925) 322-8074 info@precisionsportsmedicine.com www.precisionsportsmedicine.com John Traverso Traverso Tree Service (925) 930-7901 traversotree@gmail.com www.traversotree.com

To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Jo Peek at jpeek@bestversionmedia.com.

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NORTHGATE LIVING CA 5

Resident Feature

Meet the Hirsches: A huge part of Northgate’s swimming community

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

Scott grew up in Concord and attended De La Salle High School. Luann was born in New York but moved to Walnut Creek with her family in the 1970’s. She attended Carondelet High School.

Although the two went to the Catholic schools right across the street from each other, graduating in the early 80’s, they didn’t meet until much later. Scott went on to graduate from UC Santa Barbara with a degree in mathematics and a teaching credential.

Luann graduated from UC San Diego, also with a degree in mathematics, and a minor in music. She later received her teaching credential at St. Mary’s College in Moraga.

Both Scott and Luann have spent their adult lives teaching young people. Scott has been a math teacher at De La Salle and a swim and water polo coach.

He spent 27 years as the swim coach for Scottsdale Swim Club and is loved by so many Northgate families whose kids he has coached. He also coached Carondelet swimming for 10 years and De La Salle’s water polo team for 30 years. Scott was awarded the North Coast Section Honor Coach in both swimming and water polo, and continues to be involved with De La Salle swimming and water polo.

Luann taught at St. Mary’s Elementary School for eight years, retiring to stay home with her three boys.

She has taught piano to kids her entire adult life, and more recently has started a part-time quilting business. During the pandemic, Luann quilted more than 50 quilts. She has a Facebook page showing her work called Designs by Lulu.

Andrew, the oldest of the Hirsch sons, is 23 and graduated from USF in 2020. He now works for Veritas Investments in San Francisco. Michael attends Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles. Mark is a senior at Northgate High School.

All three boys played multiple sports through the years, “but swimming and water polo defined most of our fondest memories of our kids’ activities,” says Luann.

S

ometimes blind dates work out. Scott and Luann were set up by Patty Doherty in 1993. Patty’s kids swam at Scottsdale Swim Club, where Scott coached, and went to St. Mary’s Elementary, where Luann taught. Their first date was a James Taylor concert at the Concord Pavilion. They were engaged five months later and married in 1994. They are members at St. John Vianney Church, love to bike ride and cook together, and root for the same local teams: Giants, Warriors and 49ers. They both chose careers in teaching and value family and friends; it’s not a surprise this blind date worked out!

Andrew and Michael played water polo at De La Salle; Mark currently plays for Northgate. And of course, all three swam for Scottsdale, became life guards there, and spent their summers as part of the Scottsdale family. As Luann adds, “The boys all loved being part of the extended family that the members of Scottsdale became to us. Most of our best friends we met poolside at SSC. We loved our years there.”

A rescue dog from ARF rounds out the family. They got Steph after the 2015 NBA finals and named her for their favorite Warriors player. They just lost a pet fish named Maurice who was won at the Walnut Festival 10 years ago. He must have been a very happy fish living with such a swim focused family!

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SEPTEMBER 2021

The Hirsches recently had a chance to visit Hawaii with all their sons, a place that is special to them. They honeymooned there and have been able to share family vacations there as well.

The Hirsch family loves the Northgate neighborhood, especially the people and their long history and connections with the community. “Our community has been supportive through everything from the birth of our children to Luann’s battle with breast cancer in 2013,” says Scott. “We are now old enough to see many of the kids that we taught or coached grow up and become adults, parents and professionals. That is our favorite thing about growing up here, teaching here and living here. Many former students are now friends. We know their parents and siblings and many of their struggles and triumphs. It’s a real honor to know so many wonderful families over the years.” Luann adds, “By being involved in Walnut Acres Elementary and Scottsdale we met all of our friends. We got to know our children’s friends and were greatly blessed by those connections.”

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.

www.GordonReese.com

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 7

Pet Corner

ARF Adoption Stars

Tabasco

Submitted by ARF

Rajah

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.

Six-year-old Tabasco is a true hound detective.

He has a very curious nose and loves to explore the great outdoors, sniffing everything in his path in search for his favorite thing in the world, FOOD. Tabasco is excited to find his loving forever home where he can be taken on plenty of adventures that are followed by quality naps on a cozy bed. Tabasco has a positive history with other dogs and currently weighs 65 pounds.

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.

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.

Two-year-old Rajah is a sweet gal with a magnetic personality. This recent mom is a social butterfly who’s always happy to introduce herself to new people. She’s very curious of her surroundings and wants to explore everything in sight. Rajah would love to be a part of a home that can provide her with lots of love and attention.

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.

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

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SEPTEMBER 2021

Active Listings Address List Price 631 N Gate Rd $2,895,000 161 Brodia Way $2,600,000 1190 N Gate Rd $1,698,000 1024 Millbrook Ct $1,650,000 472 Fenway Dr $1,375,000

Pending Listings Address

List Price

3721 Waterford Lane $2,500,000 3521 Valley Vista Rd $1,950,000 575 Pine Creek Rd $1,900,000 3341 Whitehaven Dr $1,775,000 3528 Eris Ct $1,650,000 929 Wiget Ln $1,575,000 208 San Antonio Way $1,495,000 895 Autumn Dr $1,425,000 3358 Deerpark Dr $1,299,000

Sold Listings Address

Sold Price

2473 Deer Valley Ln 460 Silver Hollow Dr 225 Firestone Dr 420 Grand Oak Ct

$3,000,000 $2,517,000 $2,132,000 $1,850,000

Real Estate

Real Estate is proudly sponsored by The Rita Dhillon Team

BD 6 5 5 3 4

BD 5 5 6 5 4 4 6 4 4

BD 5 5 4 4

BT

SQFT

4.5 4 3 3 2

5,010 3,722 3,455 2,434 1,913

BT

SQFT

4.5 3 4 3 2.5 3.5 5 2.5 3

3,577 2,543 3,074 3,073 3,204 2,274 2,287 1,958 2,436

BT

SQFT

3.5 3 2.5 2.5

4,202 3,376 2,657 2,725

DOM 8 56 4 6 7

Real Estate Listings DOM in 1 13 Northgate 51 7 9 7 43 6 9

8/10/2021

DOM 20 0 7 5

Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the listings of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the real estate community in the area. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.

Rita Dhillon Team

#1 Northgate Realtor *Total Sales Volume from 2000-2020

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

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 9

September

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Sat., Sept. 11 Movies on the Roof: Jumangi: The Next Level

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

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

Cost: $5 per person, Under 3 is discounted Time: 8:00 pm

Sat., Sept. 11 Downtown Heritage Walk

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

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

Cost: FREE Time: Check in 9am

Sat., Sept. 18 Public Art Walking Tour

@ Start at Lesher Center Bedford Gallery docents will lead walking tours of Walnut Creek’s wonderful downtown public art collection. Docents are trained by public art specialists and can offer information and insight appropriate for all ages. Each month will feature a different walk.

Registration not required. More information: https://www.bedfordgallery. org/public-art/public-art-tours Cost: $5 cash, includes admission to Bedford Gallery Time: 10:00-11:00 am

Thurs., Sept. 23 – Sun., Sept. 26 Walnut Festival

@Heather Farm Park The four-day Festival offers familyfriendly entertainment, live music, a

large carnival with more than 15 rides, Kid Zone, a showcase of amazing local and regional talent including artists, craftsmen, designers, jewelers, builders, food specialties, craft beer garden, and more. For more information about times, prices, parking, carnival ride tickets and the free supervised bicycle valet, please visit wwww.thewalnutfestival.org.

Thurs., Sept. 30 Remodeling Seminar

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

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

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

RSVP: https://gordonreese.com/ home-remodeling-seminar/ or by phone (925) 885-3770 Cost: Complimentary Time: 6-8pm

@online Take a look back with local actor, writer, and director, Rob Seitelman, as he presents “Broadway’s Golden Age: The Making of an American Art Form, 1921–1964.” From Showboat to Fiddler on the Roof, Seitelman will take you from the birth of the American musical through the major works that established the genre and a lively discussion on what makes the musical a quintessentially American art form.

Cost: Free Time: 7-8:30pm

Sat., Oct. 9 Movies on the Roof: Disney’s Coco

@Lesher Center garage Enjoy a safe, family-friendly activity at the Lesher Center in the beautiful arts district of Downtown Walnut Creek. You are welcome to bring lawn chairs, blankets, snacks, dinner, and any other comforts of home. Please consider other moviegoers and keep chairs, coolers, and other comforts to a minimum height.

Cost: $5 per person, Under 3 is discounted Time: 7:15 pm

Every 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-4pm www.castlerockfarmstand.com

Save the date: Wed., Oct. 6

Live from the Library! Broadway’s Golden Age: The Making of an American Art Form, 1927-1964

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SEPTEMBER 2021

Walnut Festival returns -

a family favorite Walnut Creek tradition!

By Tammy Lagomarsino, Walnut Festival Association

T

housands are expected to descend on Heather Farm Park starting Thursday, September 23rd through Sunday, September 26th, 2021 for the Walnut Festival. The four-day Festival offers family-friendly entertainment, live music, a large carnival with more than 15 rides, Kid Zone, a showcase of amazing local and regional talent including artists, craftsmen, designers, jewelers, builders, food specialties, craft beer garden, and more.

ADMISSION AND HOURS OF OPERATION The cost of admission is $11 per person (Free for kids 5 and under, 65 or older and active military (ID required)); bring a can of food for donation and the price is $10.

• • • •

5-10 p.m. Thursday 5-11 p.m. Friday 12 p.m.-11 p.m. Saturday 12 p.m.-8 p.m. Sunday

For more information about parking, carnival ride tickets and the free supervised bicycle valet, please visit wwww.thewalnutfestival.org.

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 11

Expert Contributor

Signs your kitchen is outdated

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

I

f you’re considering remodeling your kitchen in order to make it better suit your needs and aesthetics, there are a few questions you should ask yourself.

The answers to these questions will help you to make the design decisions you’ll love most. If you are dealing with any of the following challenges in your space, chances are your kitchen would be improved with a little TLC.

There is Never Enough Space

If you find that cooking or entertaining in your kitchen feels restrictive, it’s likely you need to rethink your space. This can be achieved either by adding to your square footage or by adjusting the layout of your existing kitchen. A carefully planned kitchen remodel can open up your kitchen - allowing you ample space to enjoy time with loved ones and create food to share.

Your Kitchen Lacks Ventilation

In kitchens that lack ventilation, food smells can cling to every surface and be difficult to eliminate. Poor ventilation systems contribute to accumulating odors.

If you regularly experience restricted airflow in your kitchen, a remodel can be the ultimate solution. You deserve to feel like your home can grow and flow with you and your family–the kitchen is the heart of it all. Letting air into your kitchen will help you to feel healthier and happier in your home.

Your Kitchen Lacks a Cohesive Design

If appliances are mismatched, your kitchen is lacking a color scheme, or your kitchen has a chaotic energy and feels like a dumping ground for ingredients and

tools, this is a sign your space lacks cohesion. Beautiful spaces improve wellbeing. By redesigning your space to maximize utility and design, you can increase your enjoyment of your home. You deserve to live with a clutter-free kitchen that’s clean and relaxing.

Start Your Kitchen Remodel

Gordon Reese Design Build is an innovative design and remodeling company that uses an advanced 3D design approach and clear communication for our remodeling projects. Give us a call at (925) 885-3770 today and begin the process of creating the kitchen of your dreams.

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SEPTEMBER 2021

Recipe

Bean Bag Salad

By Lisa Assoni, Resident since 2012

This is a super summer healthy treat. Try in less than 3 minutes.

Baby, it’s been hot outside, and this dish will be so COOL and easy to make.

•

3 cups ready-to-eat Cole slaw

•

15 oz. can three-bean salad

•

2 tbs. red wine vinegar

•

3/4 cup shredded cheddar or your favorite cheese

•

1 tsp. sugar

•

Salt and pepper to taste

Using a large, zip-lock plastic bag, add all ingredients. Shake it, shake it and keep shaking. This is a good stress releaser.

Serves 6

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NORTHGATE LIVING CA 13

12-year-old resident wins

a prestigious science fiction writing contest

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

T

he pandemic did not stop Simon Keese, a12-year-old Foothill Middle School Student, from using his creative talents. In fact, because of the pandemic Simon was able to participate in a program called Future Problem Solving Program international that was offering coaching via Zoom. So, although our local public schools did not offer the program he was able to enter their writing contest working with a coach in Texas. He became the grand champion of the state of Texas and received an invitation to participate in the International Bowl in June where he placed 7th overall!

Future Problem Solving is an academic competition designed for gifted and talented students from fourth through twelfth grades. Using the 6 step problem solving model, FPSers become adept at combining research with creative ideas to solve problems we might face in the not-too-distant future. In the Scenario component of FPS, students research one of the 5 topics of study for the academic year and create a fictional short story with a conflict based on their research.

Simon chose the topic of Personalized Medicine for the basis of his scenario.

His story follows below.

No Pain, No Gain

Three weeks later

Nothing. That’s what I feel as the IV needle pierces my skin and digs into my vein. I’ve heard nurses describing a pinch or sting when giving me a shot, but I have never felt any of those before. It’s my superpower: I can’t feel pain.

“What’s for breakfast, Dad?” I shout.

by: Simon Keese

After today that will be over. I’m at the hospital for an infusion treatment for people born with a mutation to the SCN9A gene, the gene that allows people to feel pain. A long time ago scientists discovered they could change a person’s RNA sequences using CRISPR and cure genetic disorders like mine. Even though I know my parents mean well by making me do this, I’ve already lived for twelve years just fine. Sure, I’ve broken a few bones and been burned more than my fair share, but I’m tough. Pushing the limits is who I am. However, after I shattered my femur doing parkour, my mom got worried. That’s why I’m here.

I hear the doctor reassuring my mom, “Mrs. Anderson, you are doing the right thing.” He turns to me, “Troy, I know you don’t feel great about this, but it’s for the best. The ability to feel pain is a blessing that keeps us safe from harm. The effects of the treatment will start in a few weeks.

It might feel jarring at first, but you can handle it.”

I close my eyes and hope he’s right.

It’s Saturday, and that means basketball practice.

Time to get out of bed, but what’s that tingling in my left shoulder? Is this pain? If it is, what’s the big deal? A little tingling won’t stop me. I pull on my practice clothes and go to the kitchen.

“Just in time, Troy. Cinnamon rolls are ready,” Dad replies. In one motion I smile and grab a roll from the pan.

“STOP! That’s hot!” Dad yells. Suddenly, I feel a jolt through my hand. This could be pain. Maybe.

Dad smiles. I give him a quizzical look. Why would he smile when I felt something unpleasant?

“The treatment started working,” Dad says. It is pain, then. Not great, but I can handle it.

I can’t wait to get to basketball practice, the best part of my weekend. I run to the court for warmup laps. During the fifth lap, I trip and fall hard-hearing my skin squeak as I slide across the floor.

Now this has to be pain! My skin feels like it did after the burn this morning, but worse. A whimper escapes from somewhere. Coach runs over to me.

“Are you okay, Troy?” Like Dad this morning, he seems both concerned and curious at my response, much to my humiliation. He says with a smile, “Luckily, you aren’t seriously injured. Let’s do

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SEPTEMBER 2021

some passing drills.”

I hop up and find my passing partner, Michael.

He’s strong and sometimes forgets his own power. After three passes, the ball hits me, hard right in the nose. Complete. Agony. This isn’t the first time I’ve been hit in the face with a ball; my nose has been broken a few times, but this is the first time I’ve felt it. The pain rampages across my face, rioting through my sinuses. Screaming, I fall to the ground. Coach runs over to me and immediately calls Dad on his phone. “Mr. Anderson, you’d better come get Troy.”

The pain overtakes my brain, but I know I never want to come back to basketball practice again. I never EVER want to feel this sensation again, EVER. I’ll do anything, including staying in my room forever! Who was the doctor kidding? I’m not tough enough for this.

One week later “How are you feeling today?” Mom asks as she opens my bedroom door.

“I don’t know, Mom.” My voice sounds flat.

“You can’t keep on like this,” Dad says.

“I’m scared...pain is the only thing I can think about when remembering that day.”

“Well, you need to get ready. There’s someone you need to meet,” Mom says.

“Okay?” Confusion courses through my brain.

“It’s time for you to start pain coping therapy,” Mom explains.

Fear oozes from every pore in my body.

“You’re paying someone to put me through pain?”

Two hours later I walk through the doors of the Personalized Therapeutic Technology office to meet my therapist, resigned that this isn’t going to be pleasant.

“You must be Troy.” A young man in the waiting room sticks out his hand for a handshake. “I’m Matthew, and we are going to work together to make you more comfortable with pain.”

A weird sensation swirls in my stomach as I walk in. In the middle of the room stands a virtual reality set-up with two headsets and two E-suits. “What’s that for?” I gesture to the equipment.

Matthew smiles. “That is what we will be using for your therapy. I use this equipment to help my patients with anxiety by virtually exposing them to things that make them fearful. With PTSD patients, I use images that trigger negative responses in their brains, but I’m personalizing this therapy for your issue too. I treat patients by simulating their own normal, everyday environment in VR, and then I control the intensity of their brain waves using software on my own equipment.”

“Whoa, how does that work?”

“It’s complicated, but I’ll give you the quick version. About thirty years ago, scientists were conducting experiments using electricity for mind control on mice. It worked, so more scientists did more experiments, exploring ways to treat different mental health disorders in humans. So now I can simulate pain in you by influencing your brain waves with electricity. No physical harm will be done to you. Your pain coping therapy will be personalized because everyone experiences pain in different ways. In VR your brain will learn how to handle pains the rest of us are already used to.”

“So, you aren’t going to prick me with a pin?”

I sigh with relief. “Can we get started before I change my mind?”

“Not yet. First you are going to record your daily surroundings. I’ll lend you this camera for a week. You’ll wear it on your shirt.”

He shows me a small camera the size of an antique penny from 2018. “This will take 3D images of your surroundings that I’ll upload to the VR software.

One week later

“Let’s put on our VR gear. Before we begin, you must know that I’ll also be in the simulation with you, overseeing everything that happens. After I trigger a pain response, I’ll be there to guide you through it,” Matthew says.

“So, you are going to cause me pain?” I imagine Matthew poking me with a pin.

“Wait, I want to know one thing: what we are doing now will only be for mild pains, correct?

“Something like that. Come to my office and I’ll show you.”

“Yes.”

“Will you ever trigger more severe pain?”

“Eventually. You’ve played VR games that let you feel sensations like the wind blowing on you or the feeling of falling, but for this therapy we have the government’s permission to include feelings of pain, such as getting cut or burned. But we’ll work up to that. Today, we will focus on minor pains and see how your brain handles it.”

I put on the headset and my house appears around me. Matthew stands in the corner of the kitchen. “Troy, follow my instructions exactly. Take four steps forward.”

I know there’s an island less than four steps away that I’ll run into, but I do it anyway.

After four steps, I feel a shock of pain all over my body. I want to scream, but then the pain dissolves into a throbbing feeling in my toe.

“Troy, you are fine. I saw that spike in your brain waves, so I quickly adjusted them to train your brain into an appropriate response. This is what it feels like to stub your toe. Interesting how hitting your toe can make your body feel like it’s splitting apart, but it passes quickly, doesn’t it?”

“Yeah, that is strange.”

Six months later

“Hey, Troy!” Matthew smiles as I walk into the office. “Today’s a pretty big day!”

“Why?” “Well, you’ve been coming to me for half a year. I think you’ve improved. What do you think?”

“Yes!” I beam.

“It’s time for you to stop coming to me weekly. Let’s meet every three months from now on--sound good?”

“No offense, but that sounds Great!”

Mathew laughs. “I’m proud of your hard work.” He raises his hand for a high-five.

Wanting to make this high-five count, I swing my arm up and meet his hand--hard.

I feel the sting of the high five go through my hand and arm. But you know, it doesn’t bother me. Knowing how to handle this pain feels good, and that’s my new superpower.

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 15

Our local schools

Back to school 2021

By Cherise Khaund, Mt. Diablo School Board President, Resident since 2012 Hi neighbors,

COVID protocols in place and are making full use of outdoor fresh air spaces for learning and gathering.

Welcome back to school! We have been so excited to welcome all students back on campuses full time, in person, throughout Mt Diablo Unified School District. Plus there is now an enhanced Independent Study option for those who do not yet feel ready to return.

See https://mdusd.org/virtualacademy for all independent and home study options.

In August, Mt Diablo school board welcomed our 2nd official student board member, Kaleena Fowler, a senior at College Park High. Kaleena brings her experience of leading the BSU club and looks forward to leading the districtwide Student Advisory Committee.

We also approved a new Technology Strategic Plan for 2021-31, which includes 1:1 chromebooks for all secondary students beginning this school year. All sites have all

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Principal Kelly Cooper reported that Northgate High has seen a surge in enrollment, with students returning to public schools this school year plus new families moving into the area.

Stay healthy with athletics! With more than 20 sports teams at Northgate, student athletes have many opportunities to get on the field and court to perform and compete. Visit https:// www.northgatebroncos.org/ for the game schedule, highlights, or to support the athletic boosters.

Walnut Acres Principal Lang Luong says this year was “the best Jaguar day ever”! The theme was Together We Shine. Walnut Acres PFC organized fun activities and treats for kids, while parents were registering for school and signing up to volunteer.

Principal Mignon Perkins was so happy to hear the laughter of Valle Verde students playing outside and eating their lunch outdoors. Counselor Joanne Finn said she was so pleased to see that new funding allows for a counselor at every school this year, and that all staff received special training on Social Emotional Learning to help students readjust to school life.

Foothill Principal Kim Vaiana loves to dress festively on the first day of school. Here she is with the CA Distinguished School 2021 flag. Foothill was one of just 3 schools in Contra Costa County to achieve this honor!

Welcome back everyone, and please feel free to reach out anytime. Thank you for supporting our local public schools!

For more information: Find Superintendent Dr Clark’s weekly updates at https://mdusd.org/superintendent Read Cherise Khaund’s blog: https://www. cherisekhaund.com/ Follow MDUSD and schools on social media: https://mdusd.org/ https://www.facebook. com/MDUSDnews https://twitter.com/MtDiabloUSD https://www.instagram.com/ mtdiablounified/

LIC# 1063171 16

SEPTEMBER 2021

Show us your best shot!

Submitted by Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

T

he goats are back! The goats are doing their best to keep the weeds down in Pine Creek.

It’s always fun to see them while passing through the Woodlands neighborhood.

Send in your photos from around the neighborhood and we’ll post them here. Send to knavolio@ bestversionmedia.com.

We’re hiring!

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

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

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 17

Local Sports

Friday Night Lights are back at Northgate!

By Zack Torrey, Northgate High School Assistant Football Coach

T

he Broncos had a very successful, albeit abbreviated, 2020/21 season in the spring this year going 4 & 1 in their pool. Now they have a significantly shortened off season to prepare for a regular 2021 campaign. The Broncos open their season against a tough team at Deer Valley in Antioch on August 27. They have their home opener, with anticipation of eased restrictions for fans and a true return to Friday Night Lights, on September 3rd against Ukiah. The Broncos go across town and renew their cross town rivalry at Las Lomas for the Battle of the Creek September 10. The Broncos host Jesse Bethel of Vallejo and then visit Rodriguez September 17 and 24 respectively. League play starts at home vs Berean Christian Friday October 8 and continues at home vs Mt Diablo October 15. The Red Devils are coming off a very successful 2020/21 Football season so this will undoubtedly be a tough matchup. League play continues at Concord October 22nd, at home vs Ygnacio Valley October 29, and finishes November 5th at College Park. The true return to the spectacle that is Friday Night Lights is something we have all been waiting for, see you there!

Find Share AND

Varsity Football Schedule Date Opponent Home/Away Aug. 27 Deer Valley Away Sep. 3 Ukiah Home Sep. 10 Las Lomas Away Sep. 17 Jesse Bethel Home Sep. 24 Rodriguez Away Oct. 8 Berean Christian Home Oct. 15 Mt. Diablo Home Oct. 22 Concord Away Oct. 29 Ygnacio Valley Home Nov. 5 College Park Away

more local sports articles just like this on BVMSports.com

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SEPTEMBER 2021

Our Community Library

Share local sports stories with us

Ygnacio Valley Library

By Cara Douglas, Sports Writer

branch to reopen this fall

Hey Team Northgate,

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

My name is Cara Douglas. I love sports. My sport is tennis. I still play competitively and it keeps me in the game and connected to my community. To me, sports are about more than play.

Sports are about the life lessons we learn. Participating in a sport, we learn to win and lose with grace. We learn to embrace the excitement of taking the field, court, and lane. We learn that playing the game is not about us. It’s about our teammates, opponents, families and fans. Being an athlete is powerful stuff.

O

ur Ygnacio Valley Library branch is no longer being used as a Covid-19 testing site, but it is not quite open again. They are re-paving the parking lot, and we should finally get our library back this fall when the re-paving is finished. Stay tuned for more updates.

I admire athletes, coaches, teams, fans, and the families behind the scenes. Northgate is a wonderful community with a rich array of athletes at every age and level. Moving forward, I look forward to telling stories of Northgate athletes or teams of the month in each issue of Northgate Living Magazine. I need your help. Please send me your tips and suggestions, athlete, team or sport highlight ideas by contacting me directly. Until then…GO TEAM! Douglas Family.

Photo from left to right: Cooper (son), Bridget (daughter), Cara (mom), Hunter (son), Alison (daughter-in-law)

Cara Douglas is an award winning writer, an avid tennis player and sports enthusiast. With three sports kids of her own who all play a sport, she’s featured athletes for more than 20 years.

Cara loves giving back to the community in which she lives and looks forward to meeting the area’s rising stars- at any age or sport! Reach out to Cara at 559.349.8085, or via email at carapdouglas@gmail.com!

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 19

Expert Contributor

What are your teeth telling you?

By Shelise Irby, RD

T

he eyes are the window to the soul, but what about our teeth?

From a medical perspective, oral health can be a significant predictor of an individual’s overall health. For example, indicators of heart disease, diabetes and even cancer can all be potentially found in a person’s mouth.

Mouth and teeth issues can cause digestive stress since the mouth is the first place that food begins to be broken down by the body both mechanically and chemically. If there is a challenge with saliva production, mouth or jaw pain, or an injured tooth then it’s easy to see how this first stage can easily be compromised. When our digestion is less than ideal then the health of the entire body is affected since all cells rely on the nutrients provided from our diet to function.

Many issues can plague our teeth and mouth like: • • • • • • •

gingivitis cavities cold sores periodontitis cracked or broken teeth sensitive teeth dry mouth

Overgrowth of certain bacteria, fungus, or yeast can cause an imbalance in the delicate ecosystem of the gut and lead to not only compromised digestion, but also bad breath.

If you are suffering from poor oral health or bad breath, there are many lifestyle activities that can support improving your oral health. Diet plays a big role in our overall oral health, especially in relation to our teeth. I’m sure your dentist has told you before how damaging excess sugars and sweets can be to your oral health because it encourages bacterial growth in the mouth and can increase inflammation of the oral tissues.

And did you know you can help keep your teeth clean and white through diet as well? Eating more raw, crunchy foods like nuts, seeds, vegetables, and fruits helps provide natural abrasion to the teeth to mildly prevent plaque buildup and certain fruits like strawberries and apples have natural acids in them that can create a whitening effect.

All these issues and more can lead to a difficult time supporting our first stage of digestion, which can lead to challenges further down in the digestive tract such as indigestion, diarrhea, constipation, gas, weight gain, heartburn and more.

Bad breath is another sign of indigestion that many people try to cover up with mints, gum, or mouthwash. If you have good oral hygiene, brush your teeth after every meal, floss daily, get regular cleanings, eat a healthy diet, don’t have an active infection in your mouth and you STILL have bad breath then the problem is not in the mouth, but further down in the gastrointestinal tract.

What else supports oral and digestive health?

• • •

staying hydrated chewing thoroughly eating slowly in a stress-free environment

If you want to optimize your dental health or have some current challenges, email us at team@bodylovecafe.com to schedule a free 15 minute consult with one of our health coaches to see if we can help you determine what the underlying cause could be.

Visit our website at www.bodylovecafe.com to learn more.

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©2021 Open Mortgage, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Open Mortgage® is a registered trademark. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. CA CA-DBO1197293 Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act, #4170030 This material is not from or approved by HUD, FHA, or a Government Agency. Rev. 03/21

SEPTEMBER 2021

Finance 102: Fall 2021 Series Walnut Creek Library Foundation offers free virtual workshops

By Susan Moon, Walnut Creek Library Foundation

F

inance 102, presented by the Walnut Creek Library Foundation, is a series of three free workshops facilitated by local financial and legal experts and designed to provide information on financial planning for the long-term. Experts will discuss cybersecurity and the FBI; trust and estate planning; and investing in unprecedented times. Q&A will follow each presentation.

The workshops will be held from 7:00–8:30 pm via Zoom on three consecutive Thursdays in September: 16th, 23rd, and 30th. Individuals can sign up for any one or more of the workshops. Attendees must register online to reserve a place at https://www.wclibrary.org/finance/ or by phone at 925.935.5395.

September 16, 2021:

Cybersecurity and Partnering with the FBI Presenter: Enrique M. Alvarez, Supervisory Special Agent, FBI San Francisco’s Cyber Branch Supervisory Special Agent Enrique Alvarez of FBI San Francisco’s Cyber Branch will give a presentation on cybersecurity and how the FBI investigates cybercrime.

Alvarez will provide an overview of how malicious cyber actors perpetrate cybercrime and how they are organized. He will conclude by describing best practices for protecting yourself from being victimized by computer intrusion.

September 30, 2021:

Investing During Uncertain Times Presenter: Annalise Morris, Wealth Management Advisor, Merrill Lynch Join Annalise Morris, wealth management advisor with Merrill Lynch, as she guides participants through investing in these unprecedented times. Learn to focus on wealth accumulation and long-term goals and to manage your assets through diversification. Morris will also review different strategies available to you in this changing environment.

Finance 102 is produced by the Walnut Creek Library Foundation. Thank you to our sponsors, without whom this event would not be possible. Masterpiece Sponsor: Kathy and Jerry Hicks; and Print Sponsors: East Bay Times and Minuteman Press Lafayette. For more information about this and other Walnut Creek Library Foundation programs, please visit www.wclibrary.org or call 925.935.5395.

September 23, 2021:

Trust and Estate Planning in Today’s Environment Presenter: Joan Grimes, Attorney, Law Office of Joan Grimes Join Joan Grimes, local Walnut Creek attorney, for a review of estate planning fundamentals and learn what’s new in estate planning for 2021. Learn about Proposition 19 and how it may affect your estate plan. And join in a discussion of proposed changes to the tax code as they relate to your estate plan.

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 21

Expert Contributor

Ring Sizing 101

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

A

proper fit for a ring is essential; too loose and you risk losing it - too tight and it’s uncomfortable and hard to remove. When your ring doesn’t fit properly, your first thought is to get it resized. Often, this is the safest, most permanent option. However, it’s not always the best choice, and temporary solutions can be ideal under certain circumstances unless you are confident your ring size is correct and a permanent or semi-permanent change. While we all work to lose the COVID “19 pounds,” here are some suggestions and advice.

When Not to Resize Your Ring

If you suddenly find your ring spinning on your finger, your first step should be to pinpoint the root cause. Fingers can shrink for many reasons, many of them temporary, like cold weather or weight loss.

Also consider the circumstances under which your ring was first fitted. Something obvious, like pregnancy, would cause your ring to fit more snugly. But the culprit could also be something more unexpected and seemingly trivial, like a high-salt meal right before your sizing.

Maybe you’re just really sensitive to temperature fluctuations. If your ring size seems to go up and down with the mercury, a temporary ring adjuster is perfect. Whether you need an interim solution until you reach your goal weight, or you need something you can take in and out indefinitely in accordance with the weather, read on to learn how to make a ring smaller without resizing.

When you think of taking your ring to your jeweler to be resized smaller, you likely think of a permanent reduction in the circumference of the band. That’s not the only option, though. Since every resizing can negatively affects the strength of the metal, it’s wise to consider adding to the ring instead, which maintains the integrity of the ring.

Sizing Beads

To make your ring smaller using sizing beads, a jeweler simply adds two small metal balls on the back part of the inside of your ring.

Sizing beads are an economical way to reduce the size of your ring. They’re perfect for reducing a ring and they’re great for keeping your ring upright on your finger.

Some Parting Advice

If your ring isn’t fitting quite right, take it off, store it safely and feel free to bring it in to one of our consultants. Their expert opinion will be able to tell you whether you should permanently resize your ring, have them apply an adjustable ring sizer like those previously discussed, or go with a plastic guard you can use as needed.

Always remember: The fewer times you resize your ring, the better. Each resize stretches and weakens the metal and eventually, you will increase your chances of damage or loss.

Have any other questions about ensuring a proper fit for your rings? Ask us at concierge@ padisjewelry.com

Do-It-Yourself Ring Sizers

If you’d prefer not to visit your jeweler or have an urgent need, there are ring sizers you can buy and apply yourself. Widely available, plastic ring adjusters are an inexpensive, quick option to solve your ring size issue right away. They’re basically little silicone wedges or sleeves that sit between your ring and your finger. At Padis, we call these “Ring Snuggies” and offer them complimentary.

They can easily be added or removed, but one downside is it can make your ring sit up higher on your finger.

Ring Sizers to Avoid

You might thus be tempted by DIY methods usually found via Google search that involve adhering something to your ring. Adhering anything not specifically made for jewelry is asking for trouble. Gold and platinum are typically nonreactive, but you can very easily do permanent damage and your skin might not react well to the foreign substance, either.

22

SEPTEMBER 2021

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 23

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