Mailed Directly to Northgate Residents and Published Online
AUGUST 2025
Meet the
Haydens:
Photo by Mehak Khullar Photography
Sharing their love of fresh, local food
August
CALENDAR OF EVENTS Tues., Aug. 5 Movies Under the Stars: The Goonies
@Civic Park A special event brought to Walnut Creek by National Night Out 2025. Activities and food/ beverage sales will begin at 6:00 PM. The movie will start just after sundown (around 8:00 PM). Arrive early to hang out with the Police Department and set up your space on the grass! Bring blankets, low chairs, and money for the food and drink vendors (or feel free to bring your own)! Cost: FREE Time: 6-10:30pm
Wed., Aug. 6 Locust Street Festival
@Locust Street between Civic Dr. and Mt. Diablo Blvd. Experience Downtown Walnut Creek’s most popular street festival. Locust Street Festival is an evening of art, beer/wine, food, activities, live music, and shopping from artisan vendors at this beloved street festival. Grab a bite and support a small business by ordering from one of many Walnut Creek restaurants that are within walking distance. Connect with the community and explore all of what Downtown Walnut Creek has to offer. Kid and pet friendly. Cost: Free Time: 5:30-9pm
Thurs., Aug. 7 Summer Concert Series: The RagDolls
@Broadway Plaza Join us at the 2025 Broadway Plaza Summer Concert Series Featuring RagDolls - The only AllFemale Tribute to Aerosmith! Come early and visit our vendors and partners! Limited seating provided; bringing your own chairs is encouraged. The Walnut Creek Downtown Association will be selling Beverages at each concert, plus concertgoers can get food at a number of our surrounding eateries and restaurants! Cost: Free Time: 7-8:30pm
Thurs., Aug. 14 Summer Concert Series: The 3 Queens of Motown
@Broadway Plaza Join us at the 2025 Broadway Plaza Summer Concert Series featuring the 3 Queens of Motown Tribute Show! Come early and visit our vendors and partners! Limited seating provided; bringing your own chairs is encouraged. The Walnut Creek Downtown Association will be selling Beverages at each concert, plus concertgoers can get food at a number of our surrounding eateries and restaurants! Cost: Free Time: 7-8:30pm
Sat., Aug. 16 Public Art Walking Tour
@Lesher Center for the Arts Plaza is the beginning point Bedford Gallery offers one hour docent-led walking tours of Walnut Creek’s wonderful downtown public art collection every third
Saturday, April through November. Our Docents are trained by public art specialists and offer information and insight appropriate for all ages. Cost: $5 cash for adults, free for those under 18 Time:10-11am
Farmers bring their best from the nearby farming areas, kid’s craft corner, live music. www.cafarmersmkts.com/ diablo-valley-farmers-market Time: 9am-1pm
Thurs., Aug. 21 Remodeling Seminar
Save the date:
@Gordon Reese Design Build (3021 Citrus Circle #170, Walnut Creek) Join our exclusive seminar and learn how to avoid: • Designing a project that is too expensive to build • Making regretful design decisions • Choosing the wrong contractor Charcuterie and adult beverages provided. Visit our website to register: www.GordonReese.com Cost: Complimentary Time: 5:45-7:30pm
Sun., Aug. 24 Summer Market and Barn Sale
@Shadelands Ranch Museum Set among the groomed gardens of the historic Shadelands Ranch Museum, the Walnut Creek Historical Society’s annual Shadelands Summer Market is a free, familyfriendly, open-air market featuring more than 40 vendors offering distinctive, locally produced arts and crafts and artisanal foods, as well as vintage and one-of-a-kind treasures from the Ranch Museum’s antique and historical collections. Stroll and shop to live music, and grab a bite at the food trucks. Cost: Free Time: 10am-2pm
Fri., Sept. 5 Movies Under the Stars: Moana 2
@Civic Park Activities and food/beverage sales will begin at 6:00 PM. The movie will start just after sundown (around 8:00 PM). Arrive early and set up your space on the grass! Bring blankets, low chairs, and money for the food and drink vendors (or feel free to bring your own)! Cost: FREE Time: 6-10:30pm
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Throughout August Beyond Color: The Language of Black and White exhibit
@Bedford Gallery, Lesher Center for the Arts This juried exhibition featuring local, national, and international artists explores the complex simplicity and expressive power of artwork rendered exclusively in black and white. Featuring a diverse range of work, Beyond Color highlights the remarkable ways artists harness the stark contrasts and subtle gradations of achromatic media to convey profound emotion, intricate detail, and striking composition. Time: Wed.-Sun. 12-5pm
CALL US FOR A FREE ESTIMATE
925-255-0918
OPEN EVERY DAY
Office Hours 7am - 9pm Daily
LIC #1023930
Every Monday Free Yoga Class
@1399 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Suite 26 Behavioral Fitness Presents- Another Living Better through Community offering - Yoga is for all of us. A beautiful way to start the weekcome join our peaceful, mindful yoga on Monday mornings. This generous gift is sponsored by our local non-profit: Providing Easier Access to Care Everywhere: PEACE (501 (c)3). Much more than physical fitness it includes social, emotional, and environmental wellness too. Meet your neighbors and invite a friend. All levels will find their place in this gentle and inspiring time in our new space. Space is limited so please text or call to rsvp (925) 818-8062. Cost: FREE Time: 9-10am
Every Saturday Farmers’ Market
@Shadelands Business Park
2
SuburbanDynamite.com
925-655-8465 Carpets Area Rugs Solar Panels
Tile & Grout Upholstery Windows Gutters
Local, Family owned and operated, small business AUGUST 2025
Publication Team Publisher: Jo Peek
Content Coordinator: Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991
Jo Peek
Designer: Meagan Patry Contributing Photographer: Mehak Khullar
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, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2025 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.
Dear Neighbors, Welcome to our August issue of Northgate Living CA. Even though school seems to start earlier every year, there is still plenty of summer weather left, and I hope you are enjoying the warm days, backyard barbeques, and, opportunities to attend events in our great city! In this issue you will find lots of information about events going on around Walnut Creek. We also present the Haydens as our cover story this month, a family that has been instrumental in bringing farm fresh food to our community for over four decades. I’m eager to hear from you and share your stories whether you have gardening or book tips, an adorable pet, an interesting adventure to share, a hobby, a recipe, a charity you’re involved with, or any other topic you think the Northgate neighbors would like to hear more about. I’m also looking for families to feature each month on the front cover. I believe that interesting stories don’t just come from celebrities, but from our own communities. Everyone has a story to tell, and I’d love it if you’d let me tell yours. Send your articles and photos to knavolio@bestversionmedia.com. Look for us online too at www. NorthgateLivingCA.com and on Facebook and Instagram.
Kara Navolio
Northgate Living CA Content Coordinator Resident Since 1991 If you have a story, event or news to share please email me at knavolio@bestversionmedia.com. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook: NorthgateLivingCA.
Rita Dhillon Team
#1 Northgate Realtor TOTAL SALES VOLUME FROM 2004 - 2024
*
Rita Dhillon REALTOR®
925.570.1010 rita.dhillon@compass.com DRE 01109990
Tim Dhillon REALTOR®
925.570.0418 tim.dhillon@compass.com DRE 01521381
Khush Kermanizadeh REALTOR® 925.577.3422 khush@compass.com DRE 01480990
Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01527235. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.
NORTHGATE LIVING CA 3
Expert Contributors Advertising - Print & Digital
Over the last 9 years, Jo Peek has been helping local businesses, nonprofits, charities and schools connect with our community on a deeper level. She works with each client individually to customize a marketing campaign to suit their needs, timeline and budget.
Auto Service and Repair
Bill Adams and Melissa Brunson welcome you to your car’s service and repair shop. Diablo Auto Specialists is one of the most respected shops in the East Bay since its inception over 25 years ago by Tim Stussy. Bill and Melissa bring years of experience in the independent service and repair business and own additional stores in Castro Valley and Albany.
Design, Build & Remodeling
With over 41 years of experience, Gordon Reese Design Build is a nationally recognized, award-winning firm dedicated to transforming homes into spaces that truly reflect your lifestyle. Specializing in kitchens, bathrooms, whole-home remodels, additions, and ADUs, our expert team guides you from concept to completion with creativity, clear communication, and proven craftsmanship. We combine thoughtful design, 3D visualization, and a seamless process to deliver beautiful, functional results—making your remodeling journey stress-free and exciting. Trusted throughout the community, we’re proud to be your friend in the remodeling business. Let’s bring your dream home to life.
Heating and Air
With over 30 years of experience, Perfect Star Heating, Cooling and Electrical is proud to be a truly locally owned and operated family business serving Alameda & Contra Costa County. We specialize in Furnace/Heating, Air Conditioning, and Ductless Mini-Split installation, along with repair and maintenance for Central HVAC systems. Our services also include Ductwork, Indoor Air Quality solutions, and now Electrical Repair & Installation, as well as Solar Installation.
Jewelry
We started with an aim to make sure we will shine in the Bay Area and beat the prices from any jeweler. With over ten years in business, our expert staff and superior products will make you a lifetime customer. Serving all of your needs from our wide variety stock to our unparalleled custom work you will find a home with Highline Custom Jewelry.
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.
Storage Expert
At Shadelands Self-storage we provide peace of mind to our clients by offering a state of the art facility with video recorded surveillance and a real-time closed-circuit TV security monitoring station. In addition to our secured facilities, we have climate-controlled units, non-combustible construction and many additional features to fit your storing needs.
Northgate Living CA Jo Peek 925-272-8246 NorthgateLivingCA@gmail.com www.NorthgateLivingCA.com Diablo Auto Specialists Bill Adams & Melissa Brunson 925-478-5721 1439 Autocenter Drive Walnut Creek, CA 94597 www.diabloautospecialists.com Gordon Reese Gordon Reese Design Build 925-477-4953 Marketing@GordonReese.com GordonReese.com
Perfect Star Heating, Cooling & Electrical Chris Donzelli (925) 444-STAR (7827) info@perfectstarhvac.com www.perfectstarhvac.com Highline Custom Jewelry Hasan Kader 510-786-4505 www.highlinecustomjewelry.com
Rita Dhillon Compass Real Estate (925) 570-1010 Rita.Dhillon@compass.com www.RitaDhillonTeam.com Shadelands Self Storage 925-935-6200 info@shadelandsstorage.com https://shadelandsstorage.com/
Find us online NorthgateLivingCA
Our team has decades of experience, creating beautiful outdoor spaces • Paving Stones
• Fire Pits
• Drought Tolerant Plantings
• Patios
• Retaining Walls
• Synthetic & Natural Lawns
• Pool Decks
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• Efficient Irrigation Systems
• Driveways
• Low Voltage Lighting
• Free Design Consultations
925-391-0585
License #1081081 Insured, Bonded & Family Owned and Operated
sales@universalpaversbayarea.com • www.universalpaversbayarea.com 4
AUGUST 2025
Why Local Businesses
Need An Online Listings Service Inaccurate or outdated online information can severely impact local businesses. Key findings from a Local Business Discovery & Trust Report showed that 62% of consumers would avoid using a business if they found incorrect information online.1
By Jo Peek Expert Contributor
Outdated information leads to many challenges for local businesses
Accurate business listings can give companies a competitive edge
Customers may show up when you’re closed, leading to frustration, loss of trust, and potentially a negative review.
Consistent information builds credibility and trust with new and existing customers, giving them peace of mind to choose your business over others.
Mismatched info across platforms can confuse search algorithms, reducing your search ranking and overall visibility.
Accurate listings lead to increased engagement and improved search rankings, boosting your local visibility.
Managing dozens of individual listings is a headache and takes time away from running your business.
Easier updates from a single dashboard allow businesses to conveniently manage their online information with just a few clicks, saving valuable time for owners.
Inconsistent or missing details lead to fewer customer interactions and missed revenue opportunities. An online listings service ensures that your business data, such as your name, address, phone number, hours, and website, is accurate across search engines, maps and directories.
When your info is up-to-date, more people will find you, reach out, and stop by, which can directly boost your bottom line. Online listings services help local businesses stay competitive, visible, and credible. Don’t let wrong information limit your growth.
Source: 1 https://www.brightlocal.com/research/local-business-discovery-trust-report/
Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses
NORTHGATE LIVING CA 5
Resident Feature 2008 it was for sale. We fell in love with the wrap around porch, backyard, and the huge workshop where Doug would one day build the Farmers’ Market Zucchini Car Race track and outfit 11 market vans.” If you have not attended the Zucchini Car Races each July, it is an unforgettable, family-friendly event not to be missed. [See our article in our Aug. 2024 issue by visiting www. northgatelivingca.com.] Gail’s entire career has involved bringing fresh produce to communities. She began at the California Department of Agriculture developing the Certified Farmers’ Market system. During her 8-year tenure (1979-1987) the number of certified markets grew from 12 to 170. She was tasked by the Secretary of Agriculture to review the first proposed legislation calling for a definition of “organic.” She was also the first state employee to order a personal computer; it was a $20,000 machine that took up an entire airplane seat.
Family day at the Diablo Valley Farmers’ Market at the Shadelands
Meet
the Haydens: Sharing their love of fresh, local food
By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991; Photos provided by the Hayden family
G
ail and Doug Hayden oversee 14 certified farmers’ markets across the Bay Area. Over the span of her 48-year career, they have developed over 40 markets throughout Northern California. Most recently Gail and Doug opened a new market in downtown Antioch. If you’ve visited our Shadelands Farmers’ Market on Saturday mornings, you know how popular it has become. It’s more than a place to get locally grown fresh produce. It’s a family-friendly community destination with crafts for the kids, live music, and producers of many local products beyond fruits and vegetables.
When Doug’s job relocated them to Concord in 1988, Gail joined the non-profit sector. “We were in Concord just two weeks when a call came to help open a farmers’ market in Mountain View, then San Jose, Moraga, etc.” When she was expecting her 3rd child, Doug began helping with the markets on the weekends. He grew to love the work and eventually left his career at PG&E to join Gail full-time. Together they founded the California Farmers’ Markets Association (CFMA). Doug developed a food donation program in the South Bay to bring fresh produce to those in need, which earned him a Congressional Honor for his efforts. The association grew to 10 markets, and in 2009 the Diablo Valley Farmers’ Market opened in the Shadelands. Today, CFMA manages 14 markets grossing over $36 million annually for family farms with 2 locations in Walnut Creek (Shadelands and Rossmoor), Moraga, San Leandro, Morgan Hill, SF @ Ft. Mason, San Jose, Daly City, Los Gatos, Mountain View, and Saratoga. In 2005, Gail was named North American Farmers’ Market Manager of the Year, and she is often affectionately referred to as the Godmother of Farmers’ Markets. Their family is also deeply involved in the mission. Daughter Tara, 45, who majored in marketing at Chico State is often at the Moraga market. Son Sean, 44, a UC Santa Cruz graduate, who works for a farm in Brentwood, is famous for saying the corn is “sweeter than
Gail is a Walnut Creek native, attending Ygnacio Valley High School before Northgate opened. She met Doug, a Fresno native, at UC Davis while they both worked in the dining commons on campus. She majored in Agricultural Economics and Business Management, and he majored in Economics. They were married on campus while Gail was a senior and Doug had begun his career at PG&E. While Gail attended graduate school in Sacramento to earn her MBA, Doug worked as a docent for PG&E’s first solar-powered home, giving thousands of tours through the cutting-edge demonstration site. During those years, they would enjoy date nights driving their convertible toward Mt. Diablo. One night they turned down Comistas Drive and explored the neighborhood, discovering “the most beautiful home.” Gail says, “we admired that home from afar for over a decade. Then in April
Doug and Gail enjoy going to Cal Football games
6
AUGUST 2025
my mother-in-law” (though he’s not married). Youngest daughter Kayla, a Cal Poly San Luis Obispo graduate in Agricultural Business, works as a manager for CFMA. The Haydens also have a beloved rescue pup from a farm in Hollister named Bella. You can often spot Gail and Bella walking in the park next to Northgate High School. “What we love about our neighborhood,” says Doug, “is that we meet many neighbors at the market. We enjoy sharing recipes, cooking techniques, and seeing them at our annual Halloween costume parade, the watermelon eating contest, and the Kids’ Day event. We’re so happy to live in a community that embraces good food, good health, and an appreciation for getting the know the people who grow our food.”
Grand opening at the Antioch Market
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.
Your Car Expertly Maintained
Diablo Auto Specialists is Walnut Creek’s only 5-Star auto repair and service center on Google.
Quality Value Service
(925) 478-2647 1439 Autocenter Drive Walnut Creek, CA 94597 www.diabloautospecialists.com
Hours open:
Mon - Fri: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM NORTHGATE LIVING CA 7
Natural. Timeless. Unforgettable.
Call or Visit Today | (510)786-4505 | 1613 N Main St, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
8
AUGUST 2025
HIGHLINE CUSTOM JEWELRY. Natural. Timeless. Unforgettable. At Highline Custom Jewelry, we specialize in fine, 100% natural diamonds, luxury timepieces, and expert craftsmanship. Whether you’re seeking the perfect engagement ring, a one-of-a-kind custom piece, or precise onsite jewelry and timepiece repairs – we’re your local destination for timeless elegance. THE LARGEST COLLECTION OF NATURAL DIAMOND JEWELRY
HIGHLINECUSTOMJEWELRY.COM NORTHGATE LIVING CA 9
Pet Adoption Corner
Joybound
Here are some currently available cuties! CATS: Minnow
DOGS:
Clyde
LookingforLove By Chelsea Blackburn, Joybound Public Relations Manager
Riley
A
dopt a new best friend at Joybound People & Pets (formerly the Animal Rescue Foundation) in Walnut Creek! View available dogs and cats online or visit Joybound in-person: MondaySunday, 12-6 pm. Our team is excited to guide you in choosing a pet, share information about their history and behavior, and provide helpful resources.
Crockpot
Scott Pilgrim
Joybound adoption fees: • • • • • •
• $150 for an adult dog • $375 for a puppy (<6 months) • $75 for a special-needs dog • $200 for a special-needs puppy (<6 months) • $75 for a senior dog (7+ years) Adoption fees waived for US military Veterans •
Casserole
$100 for an adult cat $175 for a kitten (<6 months) $50 for a special-needs cat $100 for a special-needs kitten (<6 months) $50 for a senior cat (7+ years) Adoption fees waived for US military Veteran
Our reputation is built one satisfied customer at a time We have been proudly servicing your area since 2006
925-363-4965 waterheatersmasters.com
Local, family-owned We Offer Free Estimates & Military & Senior Discounts
Lic.# 888593
Residential and Commercial Water Heaters Water Heater Replacement and Repair Specialists Standard, Tankless, and HighEfficiency Model Water Heaters $50 OFF New Water Heater Installation, $100 OFF New Tankless Water Heater Installation
May not be combined with other offers
10
AUGUST 2025
Real Estate
Real Estate is proudly sponsored by The Rita Dhillon Team
Real Estate Listings in Northgate Active Listings Address
List Price
BD
BT
SQFT
DOM
5 4 4 5 4
3.5 3 3.5 3 3
4,402 3,043 4,507 3,376 3,775
94 116 73 41 21
BD
BT
SQFT
4 4 6 5 4
2.5 2 3 3.5 2.5
2,441 2,045 2,779 2,685 2,049
66 20 11 20 11
Sold Price
BD
BT
SQFT
DOM
$3,580,000 $2,400,000 $2,150,000 $2,050,000 $1,910,000
5 4 5 6 4
4 2 2.5 3.5 2.5
5,590 2,309 2,310 3,522 2,390
8 11 12 21 6
1101 N Gate Rd $4,895,000 350 Pine Creek Rd $3,750,000 195 Pine Creek Rd $2,950,000 460 Silver Hollow Dr $2,800,000 418 Golf Ct $2,449,000
Pending Listings Address
List Price
3115 Ebano Dr $1,800,000 374 Warwick Dr $1,695,000 243 Santa Fe Dr $1,595,000 3257 Inverness Dr $1,595,000 3220 Diablo Shadow Dr $1,550,000
Sold Listings Address
3711 Northgate Woods Ct 413 Pazzi Rd 2336 Welsh Ct 290 Firestone Dr 3180 Arbolado Dr
DOM
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 Presents SOLD
3711 Northgate Woods Court, Walnut Creek 5 Bed | 4 Bath | 5,590 Sq Ft Office | Separate In-Law Unit Pool/Spa | Outdoor Kitchen .93 Acre | $3,580,000 3711NorthgateWoods.com
SOLD
2560 Chinook Drive, Walnut Creek Northgate | 5 Bed | 2.5 Bath 2,807 Sq Ft | .25 Acre | Pool/Spa Pavilion | Outdoor Kitchen $1,900,000
Rita Dhillon REALTOR® 925.570.1010 rita.dhillon@compass.com DRE 01109990 Tim Dhillon REALTOR® 925.570.0418 tim.dhillon@compass.com DRE 01521381 Khush Kermanizadeh REALTOR® 925.577.3422 khush@compass.com DRE 01480990 RitaDhillonTeam.com
Compass is a licensed real estate broker in California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.
Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses
NORTHGATE LIVING CA 11
Expert Contributor - Chris Donzelli, Owner of Perfect Star Heating, Cooling & Electrical
The Unsung Hero of Comfort:
WHY HVAC DESERVES THE SPOTLIGHT By Chris Donzelli, Owner of Perfect Star Heating, Cooling & Electrical In the world of skilled trades, few fields are as versatile—or as essential—as HVAC.
What Clients Often Don’t Realize
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning professionals quietly protect one of life’s most basic needs: comfort. Far beyond fixing machines, HVAC work blends electrical, mechanical, and even plumbing skills to keep homes safe, efficient, and livable.
•
Regulations are evolving. New energy standards are increasing system costs, but for good reason—efficiency and environmental protection.
•
Not all refrigerants are equal. Some older systems rely on phasedout refrigerants that are costly or unavailable.
•
Marketing can be misleading. A low price doesn’t always equal quality. Due diligence matters.
At Perfect Star, we see HVAC not just as a profession, but a way to give back. It’s incredibly rewarding to serve East Bay homeowners— but equally meaningful is mentoring the next generation of technicians. Watching someone grow from apprentice to expert reminds us that the future of comfort relies on those willing to learn, lead, and serve.
Beyond Tools: Heart Behind the Work
Our work is grounded in community. Through our Perfect Star Gives Back program and Lennox’s Feel the Love initiative, we’ve proudly provided free HVAC systems and repairs to families facing hardship, veterans, and local heroes in the East Bay Area. From the outside, HVAC may seem like wires and ductwork—but it’s deeply personal. We help people sleep through heatwaves, protect air quality during wildfire season, and bring peace of mind to parents and grandparents alike. Comfort isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. We take that responsibility seriously.
What Every Homeowner Should Know A few tips from the pros: •
Change your filters regularly. It improves air quality and extends your system’s life.
•
Choose your HVAC partner carefully. Not all companies are created equal. Look for training, transparency, and trust.
There are important industry truths every homeowner should know:
That’s why Perfect Star is proud to be Diamond Certified. Our technicians are rigorously trained, vetted, and held to the highest standards.
The Changing Climate of HVAC
HVAC isn’t just about comfort—it’s about health and safety. Today’s systems support wellness and even extend life expectancy. But we must also recognize our environmental footprint. At Perfect Star, we’re committed to sustainability. We're staying ahead of new regulations and offering high-efficiency systems that perform while preserving the planet. We owe it to future generations to be thoughtful stewards of the environment.
In Closing
HVAC may not always be in the spotlight, but it’s foundational to modern life. At Perfect Star, we’re honored to serve the East Bay with expertise, heart, and integrity. If you’re ready for honest advice, expert service, and a team that treats your home like their own—call Perfect Star.
12
AUGUST 2025
$79 AC TUNE-UP SPECIAL! Get your system ready for Summer! $79 special includes an AC Tune-Up, a Furnace Safety Inspection (or vice versa) AND an Electrical Efficiency Test! A $536 Value for Just $79!*
BOOK TODAY!
EXPIRES AUGUST 30TH 2025
PERFECT STAR HEATING, COOLING, & ELECTRICAL is a locally owned family business with over 30 years of experience serving Alameda & Contra Costa County. We provide top-quality service for all HVAC makes and models, specializing in Furnace/Heating, Air Conditioning, Ductless Mini-Splits, and Central HVAC repair and maintenance. Our offerings also include Ductwork, Indoor Air Quality solutions, plus Electrical and Solar installation and repair. We offer free estimates for system replacements,
new installations, and solar solutions. As a Lennox Premier Dealer, Daikin Comfort Pro, and WellAir Elite dealer, we are recognized for excellence. We are Diamond Certified, hold an A+ BBB rating, and have been voted “Best Heating & Air Company” and “Most Community-Minded Company” by The Press readers in Brentwood, CA for two consecutive years. We’ve also been honored as SFGATE’s Best of the Bay Area Heating & A/C Service provider.
925.444.0763 | WWW.PERFECTSTARHVAC.COM CL#1022101
*Cannot be combined with any other offers or applied to past transactions.
NORTHGATE LIVING CA 13
Expert Contributor
The Hidden ROI of Remodeling:
What Your Contractor Might Not Be Telling You By Gordon Reese, Gordon Reese Design Build, Resident since 2008 investment isn’t about price tags—it’s about outcomes, accountability, and peace of mind.
Value Beyond Resale—Comfort, Functionality, Peace of Mind, and Energy Savings
3. Comfort That Transforms Your Home Life
When most homeowners think of remodeling ROI, they think resale value. But the smartest investments aren’t always the ones with a dollar sign attached. The true return on remodeling often shows up in how you live, feel, and function in your home—every single day.
Your home should be a place that supports you—emotionally, physically, and practically. Whether it’s aging-in-place updates, a brighter and more functional kitchen, or a private backyard ADU for visiting family, remodeling is a chance to craft a home that fits your life beautifully.
Whether you’re considering a new kitchen or bathroom, a room addition to expand your space, or an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) to accommodate multigenerational living or rental income, here’s why a well-planned remodel pays off in more ways than you might expect.
That kind of comfort will not only show up on a real estate appraisal—but it adds value to your daily life in immeasurable ways.
1. Better Functionality = Daily Relief
4. Long-Term Energy Savings
Remodeling allows you to reimagine how your home works for you. It might mean reconfiguring your kitchen for better workflow, turning a dated bathroom into a spa-like retreat, or adding a new room so your family has room to breathe. These functional upgrades offer daily relief—and that’s a return you feel every time you walk in the door.
Over time, those savings add up—especially as utility rates rise. It’s one more reason that thoughtful design and quality construction pay off long after the project is done.
Do you feel cramped, inconvenienced, or frustrated by your home’s current layout? That’s a sign your space isn’t serving you.
2. Peace of Mind from Doing It Right
Few things are more stressful than a remodel gone wrong: surprise costs, miscommunication, delays, and disappointing results. That’s why working with a design-build team that offers price certainty and clear communication is so valuable. You get a realistic budget early, design decisions that align with that budget, and a team that takes responsibility from start to finish. While the lowest bid might seem appealing, it often leads to the most expensive outcomes—especially if things need to be redone. A smart
From better insulation and high-efficiency HVAC systems to dual-pane windows and energy-saving appliances, smart remodeling can reduce your monthly energy bills while improving year-round comfort.
Want to Explore What’s Possible?
If you’re thinking about remodeling—whether it’s a kitchen or bath upgrade, a room addition, or an ADU—our Remodeling Planning Seminar on August 21st from 5:30 to 7:30 PM is a great place to start. You’ll get expert guidance on what to expect, how to plan, and how to avoid costly missteps. Visit www.GordonReese.com to reserve your seat. Or, if you’re ready to take the next step, reach out for a one-on-one consultation to see if we’re the right team to help you bring your vision to life—with clarity, quality, and confidence.
Lic#858791
Interior / Exterior Painting | Sheetrock Repair | Texturing
www.rspaintingco.net
Email: rstrongpainting@gmail.com
14
AUGUST 2025
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After: open, inviting, modern
Do you want to love your home a little more? Expert Remodeling for Homeowners Who Want to Do It Right the First Time Schedule Your Consultation Take the first step toward the home you’ve been dreaming about. GORDONREESE.COM 3021 Citrus Circle, Suite 170 Walnut Creek, CA 94598 | (925) 592-9822
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"We are very satisfied with both the results and the way the project was executed. All work was done professionally with consideration of the final appearance as well as the underlying unseen structure." - Walnut Creek Resident
NORTHGATE LIVING CA 15
SOLD
SOLD
SOLD
SOLD
FYNE DRIVE
SAN BENITO DRIVE
VIA MANTILLA
WELSH COURT
KATHY’S 2025 YTD SALES ACTIVITY* 1 PENDING • 15 SOLD • 4 COMING SOON
*AS OF 7/10/25 CHECK NORTHGATETEAM.COM FOR FINAL SALE PRICES
NORTHGATE TOP AGENT (925) 980-3951 | NorthgateTeam.com | CA BRE # 01720632 BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE RELIANCE PARTNERS 1555 Riviera Drive Suite E Walnut Creek, CA. 94596