Content Coordinator: Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991
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.
This December marks our 8 year anniversary of Northgate Living Magazine ! We have learned a lot about our community and have had a blast doing it! We have many more wonderful families to feature and stories to share. On behalf of our publisher, Jo Peek, our photographer, Mehak Khullar Photography, myself, and all of our talented contributors, we want to thank you for letting us share the stories of our community. We also want to thank all of our sponsors for making Northgate Living Magazine possible. Our feature family this month is the Keeney family, a young couple who recently discovered the neighborhood and love everything about it. I hope you enjoy their story and are reminded of all the reasons we love Northgate!
I’m wishing you all a happy holiday season. This December I will be counting my blessings and remembering how special it is to be with family.
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.
Warmly,
Kara Navolio
Northgate Living CA Content Coordinator
Resident Since 1991
If you have a story, event or news to share please email me at knavolio@bestversionmedia.com. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook: NorthgateLivingCA.
Jo Peek
December
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Sun., Dec. 14
Breakfast with Santa
@Boundary Oak Golf Course
Bring the little ones for a fun morning with Santa. Northgate Athletic Boosters hosts this event to bring our community together to have breakfast, bid on raffle items, and take a picture with Santa if you choose. Our raffle items include gear from our sports teams, entry into a variety of different camps (Football, Jr. Broncos, Volleyball, and more), and other toys and kids’ activities. Time: 9am-12pm
Cost: $15 for adults, $5 for children 3 and up, and children under 3 are free.
December through Jan. 16
Walnut Creek on Ice
@Civic Park
Get your skate on at the Downtown Walnut Creek ice rink. Walnut Creek On Ice offers group lessons and open skating times and is also available for private parties. The rink is open daily and times and prices vary. Visit https:// walnutcreekonice.com for more information.
Through
Dec.14
Holiday Faire
@Shadelands Ranch
The Shadelands Holiday Faire has been a seasonal tradition at the Shadelands Ranch Museum since 1983, when the holiday spirit comes alive with displays of distinctive handcrafted gifts for everyone on your list — including yourself. Admission and parking are free.
Time: 10am-4pm daily
Through Dec. 14
Observations of a Still Life
@Bedford Gallery, Lesher Center for the Arts Observations of a Still Life explores the enduring relevance of the still life. Throughout its long history, the genre has remained a fascination for both artists and audiences, as its resonance lies in its ability to reflect the times. In contemporary culture, we’re saturated with information to the point of overload. The artists in this exhibition deftly navigate our chaotic environment, transforming ordinary items into objects of curiosity and, at times, obsession. Time: Wed.-Sun. 12-5pm
Every Saturday Farmers’ Market
@Shadelands Business Park
Farmers bring their best from the nearby farming areas, kid’s craft corner, live music. www.cafarmersmkts.com/ diablo-valley-farmers-market
LNB Accounting provides expert accounting and tax services for Bay Area businesses. We streamline your financial operations while ensuring compliance and growth. Whether you’re managing nonprofit grants or overseeing construction projects, we bring the same detailed attention that powers our consumer service clients to every industry we serve.
Over the last 10 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.
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.
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.
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.
A highly skilled PMU artist, Cosmetologist with over 20 years of medical experience. Nataliya combines artistry and scientific precision to deliver safe, beautiful results. Her expertise in anatomy, skin physiology, and sterile techniques ensures clients receive tailored enhancements, from eyebrow microblading to skin care.
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.
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.
Keeneys: Building a Life in Northgate Meet the
By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991;
In 2019 Shiva and Brendan Keeney started out as co-workers, then friends. They attended the Walnut Creek Art and Wine Festival together, and that friendship turned into romance. “We are still best friends,” says Shiva. At the beginning of 2023 Brendan planned a surprise engagement. He invited all of their families to local restaurant Massimo’s and popped the question. “One week later we also found out we were expecting our first child,” adds Shiva, “which put our wedding on a slight hold.” Their son was born in September, and their wedding happened a year later in October 2024. “It made choosing a ring bearer very easy!”
Shiva and Brendan are both Northern Californians; she from San Mateo and he from Granite Bay. Brendan attended Cal and played football for the Bears. Shiva attended San Diego State for her undergraduate degree and St. Mary’s for her MBA in finance. She works for Oura Ring where she is leading their expansion into healthcare. Brendan has been working in insurance since graduation and is a broker for Gallagher.
Little Kaden is now two, and a baby sister is due this month. Shiva and Brendan moved to Northgate in 2024. Before having kids, they were avid golfers, often playing twilight at Boundary Oak. Now they mostly spend their free time supporting Kaden’s love of golf. “Kaden is obsessed with golf,” adds Shiva. “During the summer when the weather was warmer, he could spend three hours swinging his clubs in the backyard!” He even eats breakfast watching golf on TV. He does enjoy other sports too, and he loves animals and, like many little boys, construction equipment. “He can watch an excavator for hours.”
Shiva and Brendan also enjoy cooking and having family dinners each night. Shiva shares recipes on her Instagram @kitchentender and occasionally in this magazine. Shiva has Persian and Welsh roots and hopes to pass down all the amazing recipes her Persian grandmother made.
The Keeneys also have a nine-year-old poodle named Walter that they rescued from NorCal Poodle. “He was very upset when we came home with a child,”
Photos provided by The Keeney Family
Photo by AMD Pictures
shares Shiva. “It has taken two years, but he has finally come around to tolerating his little brother,” she laughs.
Brendan is an avid sports fan of football, golf, baseball, and more. He’s a treasure trove of facts of current players and historical information. His favorite teams are the 49ers and the Giants. They also love exploring the trails that are so close to home, spending time at Arbolado Park, and visiting the Diablo Farmers’ Market most Saturdays. Kaden is a huge fan of the live musical entertainment there and loves to dance.
They have a dream of someday owning a bigger property where they can grow their own food and raise animals. “We care a lot about family and spending family time together,” says Shiva. “As long as we are building a life where our family has a close bond, we have met all the most important goals for ourselves.” As a young family they are just starting family traditions, like taking a vacation in Newport Beach, which they have done for the past two years now.
“Our neighbors are wonderful. There are many kids in the neighborhood. We love the people and the proximity to our
Plan Now, Enjoy Sooner: Why Winter Is the Perfect Time to Start Your Remodel
By Gordon Reese, Gordon Reese Design Build, Resident since 2008
If you’ve been thinking about remodeling, you’re not alone. The start of a new year often inspires homeowners to make long-awaited changes — a more functional kitchen, a refreshed bathroom, or an addition that finally creates the space your family needs. But while most people think remodeling starts when construction begins, the smartest homeowners know the real work starts long before the first hammer swings.
Why Now Is the Ideal Time to Start Planning
Winter might not feel like remodeling season, but it’s actually the perfect time to begin the process. During the colder months, construction teams are typically wrapping up projects and preparing for the spring rush. That means designers, permit offices, and trade partners have more availability — giving you time to plan thoroughly and secure your preferred timeline before the busy season hits.
Planning early also locks in your spot on the construction calendar. Come April or May, most reputable remodelers are already booked out months in advance. Homeowners who start the design process now are often the ones enjoying their new spaces by summer, while others are still waiting for permits or final drawings.
Design Takes Time — and That’s a Good Thing
One of the biggest misconceptions about remodeling is that it happens quickly. In reality, thoughtful design takes time. Between developing your concept, creating detailed plans, finalizing selections, and securing permits, the design phase can take anywhere from six to twelve weeks — and that’s before construction begins.
Rushing through that process is where many homeowners get into trouble. Without clear plans and realistic budgets, projects can spiral into frustration, change orders, and delays. By starting now, you can take the time to get it right — to explore design options, make informed decisions,and ensure every detail is aligned before the build begins.
A great remodeling experience isn’t about speed. It’s about planning with purpose and clarity.
Why a Proven Process Matters
Choosing the right team is just as important as choosing the right tile or cabinetry. Look for a remodeler who takes time to understand your goals, explains the process in detail, and provides transparency every step of the way.
At Gordon Reese Design Build, our design-first approach ensures that the project you plan is the project you build. We design within your investment range, coordinate every detail with our trusted trade partners, and communicate clearly throughout the process. It’s how we’ve helped hundreds of East Bay homeowners avoid surprises and enjoy remodeling with confidence for more than four decades.
Join Us for Our February 19th Remodeling Seminar
If you’ve been thinking about remodeling but don’t know where to start, we’re hosting a Remodeling Seminar on Thursday, February 19th, from 5:45 to 7:00 PM at our Walnut Creek office.
These events are designed specifically for homeowners who want to understand what to expect— from design timelines and permitting to realistic investment ranges and what makes a remodel successful. You’ll hear insights from our team, see examples of recent projects, and have the opportunity to ask questions in a relaxed, educational setting. It’s the perfect way to start planning your remodel with confidence — and to learn how to avoid the most common pitfalls that can derail a project.
Your Home, Your Plan, Your Timing
Remodeling isn’t just about improving your home — it’s about improving how you live in it. The winter months are a gift of time and opportunity to plan ahead, get organized, and make sure your project is done right the first time.
If your goal for the new year is to love your home a little more, don’t wait for spring. Plan now, and you’ll be the one enjoying your new space by summer. Ready to take the next step? Join our upcoming Remodeling Seminar or book your free home remodeling consultation today at www. gordonreese.com.
Beyond the Gift Box & Wrapping Paper
By Amanda Griffin
For most of us, the holiday season is about spending time with loved ones, having fun, creating memories, and for many, sharing gifts. Yes, the fleeting moment of unwrapping a present to discover what’s inside is exciting, but how many of those items are quickly forgotten? This year, why not think outside the gift box and join the growing trend of giving the gift of experience! Nonmaterial gifts can be shared experiences that spark joy and help create memories that will be looked back upon with smiles and laughter for years to come! Check out these possibilities if you need a little inspiration:
Classes or Workshops
What interests your intended recipient—cooking, arts, a fun paint-and-sip event, a writing workshop, a sport or physical activity? The possibilities are pretty much endless, and there are a myriad of places that offer classes and workshops, including locally-owned businesses, community colleges, and many more.
Adventure and Travel
Whether it’s a day trip, a weekend getaway, or a weeklong trip, on land, air, or water, there are so many fun adventures to choose from. Is there an activity you and your loved one(s) enjoy together like skiing, a hot air balloon ride, whale watching or a dinner cruise, or swimming with dolphins—the possibilities are only limited by your imagination. For shorter and/or budget-friendly options, explore nearby cities, natural landmarks, or even a quaint small town that offers a unique experience. Travel and adventure help create shared experiences that will be cherished long after the suitcases are unpacked.
Membership/Season Pass to Local Attractions
A membership or season pass to a zoo, museum, aquarium, science center, amusement park, the symphony, etc., can provide so much enjoyment, as well as the opportunity to explore and learn. Many local attractions offer affordable family memberships, and some include special events,
additional guess passes, and member-exclusive activities throughout the year.
Tickets to Shows or Events
Concerts, live local or regional theater performances, Broadway (Vegas, or other similar) shows, sporting events, or even seasonal events like Christmas light displays or seasonal festivals can offer fun and memorable experiences for the whole group.
Subscription Services
A subscription to a streaming service, audiobook platform, or a monthly craft, science, or builder box can offer hours of fun and experience for an individual or a group. There are many services to choose from and something for all ages.
Volunteer Together
Giving back to your community or others for a good cause is a very meaningful way to spend time, especially as a group of friends and/or family, bonding and creating wonderful memories. Volunteering at a local food bank, animal shelter, or participating in community service projects helps us appreciate the true spirit of the season. It not only creates a sense of togetherness but also teaches children valuable lessons about empathy, kindness, and gratitude.
The best gifts are often the ones that don’t come in boxes. Non-material gifts shift the focus away from material goods and towards quality time that allows families and friends to share experiences, create memories, and foster a deeper sense of connection and joy that outlasts any physical possession.
By Jo Peak Expert Contributor
W hy Local Businesses
LOCAL MARKETING SUCCESS
N eed An Online Listings Se rvice
Four Pillars of Success Local Marketing
Inaccurate or outdated online information can severely impact
Trust Report showed that 62% of consumers would avoid using a business if they found incorrect information online.1
By Insert Publisher, Expert Contributor
Outdated information leads to many challenges for local businesses
Accurate business listings can give companies a competitive edge
BE TRUSTED WITH PRINT ADS
BE TRUSTED WITH PRINT ADS
BE TRUSTED
BE TRUSTED WITH PRINT ADS
BE TRUSTED WITH PRINT ADS
—with— PRINT ADS
BE SEEN WITH DIGITAL ADS
BE SEEN WITH DIGITAL ADS
BE SEEN WITH DIGITAL ADS
BE SEEN WITH DIGITAL ADS
Customers may show up when you’re closed, leading to frustration, loss of trust, and potentially a negative review.
Did you know that 82% of consumers trust ads in magazines and newspapers more than any form of marketing?1
Did you know that 82% of consumers trust ads in magazines and newspapers more than any form of marketing?1
Did you know that 82% of consumers trust ads in magazines and newspapers more than any form of marketing?1
Did you know that 82% of consumers trust ads in magazines and
Did you know that 82% of consumers trust ads in magazines and newspapers more than any form of marketing?1
BE FOUND WITH ONLINE LISTINGS
BE FOUND WITH ONLINE LISTINGS
BE FOUND WITH ONLINE LISTINGS
BE FOUND WITH ONLINE LISTINGS
BE FOUND ONLINE LISTINGS
BE CHOSEN
BE CHOSEN WITH BE SEEN —with— DIGITAL ADS
BE CHOSEN WITH
BE CHOSEN WITH
Digital display ads offer a significant boost to brand awareness, with Aspire reporting potential improvements of up to 80%.2
Digital display ads offer a significant boost to brand awareness, with Aspire reporting potential improvements of up to 80%.2
Digital display ads offer a significant boost to brand awareness, with Aspire reporting potential improvements of up to 80%.2
Digital display ads offer a significant boost to brand awareness, with Aspire reporting potential improvements of up to 80%.2
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.
Managing dozens of individual listings is a headache and takes time away from running your business.
Digital display ads offer a significant boost to brand awareness, with Aspire reporting potential improvements of up to 80%.2
Inconsistent or missing details lead to fewer customer interactions and missed revenue opportunities.
According to a Google Mobile Movement Study, 88% of consumers who search for a local business on a mobile device call or visit that business within 24 hours.
According to a Google Mobile Movement Study, 88% of consumers who search for a local business on a mobile device call or visit that business within 24 hours.
According to a Google Mobile Movement Study, 88% of consumers who search for a local business on a mobile device call or visit that business within 24 hours.
According to a Google Mobile Movement Study, 88% of consumers who search for a local business on a mobile device call or visit that business within 24 hours.
Accurate listings lead to increased engagement and improved search rankings, boosting your local visibility.
Multi-platform targeting across social media and search engines ensures added visibility for your
Multi-platform targeting
Multi-platform targeting across social media and search engines ensures added visibility for your
Multi-platform targeting across social media and search engines ensures added visibility for your
Multi-platform targeting across social media and search engines ensures added visibility for your
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.
According to a Google Mobile Movement Study, 88% of consumers who search for a local business on a mobile device call or visit that business within 24 hours.
Accurate listings mean showing up when it matters most, boosting your local SEO, and building trust instantly.
Accurate listings mean showing up when it matters most, boosting your local SEO, and building trust instantly.
Accurate listings mean showing up when it matters most, boosting your local SEO, and building trust instantly.
Accurate listings mean showing up when it matters most, boosting your local SEO, and building trust instantly. BE
Easier updates from a single dashboard allow businesses to conveniently manage their online information with just a few clicks, saving valuable time for owners
Accurate listings mean showing up when it matters most, boosting your local SEO, and building trust instantly.
When your info is up-to-date, more people will 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.
“[Our Publisher] has been nothing but excellent for us. From the initial presentation to
“[Our Publisher] has been nothing but excellent for us. From the initial presentation to
“[Our Publisher] has been nothing but excellent for us. From the initial presentation to
“[Our Publisher] has been nothing but excellent for us. From the initial presentation to
Joybound Looking for Love
By Chelsea Blackburn, Joybound Public Relations Manager
Adopt 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.
Here are some currently available cuties!
CATS: DOGS:
Joybound adoption fees:
• $150 for an adult dog
• $375 for a puppy (<6 months)
at 9 AM)
• $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
• $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
Real Estate Listings in Northgate
$4,895,000
$3,750,000
$2,995,000
$2,399,000
$2,395,000
Pending Listings
$1,998,000
$1,895,000
$1,795,000
$1,749,000
$1,375,000
$2,510,000
$1,730,000
$1,730,000
$1,650,000
$1,450,000
Holiday Events and Gatherings Spread Joy and Connection
By Lisa Crossett, Resident since 2001
As the air turns crisp and twinkling lights begin to adorn homes and streets, the holiday season ushers in a time of joy, reflection, and connection. From festive gatherings with loved ones to the hustle of gift-giving and cherished traditions, this magical time of year brings people together in celebration of warmth and generosity. Whether it’s the sparkle of holiday lights, the scent of homemade cookies, or the vibrant festivities around our beautiful Walnut Creek, the season invites us to pause, create memories, and embrace the spirit of togetherness that defines this special time.
Walnut Creek, California, transforms into a winter wonderland during the 2025 Christmas season, brimming with festive events that capture the magic of the holidays.
Kick off the cheer with the sparkling Holiday Parade of Lights and Civic Park Tree Lighting (11/21), where illuminated floats and community caroling light up downtown.
Families can skate under the stars at Walnut Creek on Ice in Civic Park or visit Santa’s enchanting winter wonderland at Broadway Plaza for photos and gift hunting. Visit the Handcrafted Holiday sale on 12/6 and 12/7 at the Center for Community Arts to find handmade gifts that are second to none. Don’t miss the Holiday Faire and teas at Shadelands Ranch Museum starting on 11/29 through 12/14, or the lively Holiday Hustle 5K run on December 13—perfect for blending joy, tradition, and a dash of Bay Area spirit. Garden of D’Lights at Ruth Bancroft Gardens is a magical display of festive lights, art installations, and lasers where the tickets are now on sale through early January 2026.
festive peppermint chocolate chip—beautifully arranged on platters. The room buzzes with laughter and holiday tunes as everyone swaps recipes, stories, and cookies, filling festive tins to take home.
Along with visiting the various holiday activities around the city, hosting a holiday dinner party this season is the perfect way to gather loved ones for an evening of warmth and celebration. Picture a beautifully set table adorned with festive decor, filled with the aromas of roasted herb-crusted prime rib, creamy mashed potatoes, and spiced cranberry chutney. Guests mingle to the soft glow of holiday lights and a playlist of classic carols, while sipping local Napa Valley wine. Laughter and heartfelt toasts fill the air along with a small gift exchange.
Baking cookies, along with hosting or attending a holiday cookie exchange, this season is a delightful way to spread festive cheer and sweet treats among friends. Imagine a cozy gathering where guests arrive with batches of their favorite homemade cookies—think buttery shortbread, chewy ginger molasses, and
Every holiday season, I delight in baking an array of dozens of festive cookies to share with my neighbors on our cozy Walnut Creek court, spreading warmth and cheer. My signature holiday snowball cookies, dusted with powdered sugar, are the undisputed stars, with some neighbors playfully confessing to stashing a few for themselves. Before Thanksgiving, I hunt for stunning holiday boxes at TJ Maxx to package these treats with flair, delivering them just days before Christmas. Last year, one neighbor even packed their box for a flight to New York—I can’t help but wonder how many of those buttery morsels survived the journey!
I hope everyone embraces the magic of the holiday season, filled with joyful moments, cherished traditions, and the warmth of loved ones, as we ring in the New Year with hope, excitement, and a renewed sense of togetherness!
Lisa has been a Northgate resident since 2001. Professionally she is the President of Crossett Search & Advisory Group. (www. crossettsearchgroup.com) and a board member of Community Arts Foundation based in Walnut Creek. Lisa’s passion is food, wine, and entertaining. She publishes a food blog called Authentic Suburban Gourmet and loves to throw dinner parties, explore wine country, collect wine, and create great food. (Instagram: @authenticsuburbangourmet)
The Path to Stardom: How to Be on the Cover of THIS Magazine!
Don’t think you have an interesting story? We hear this from neighbors often. We’ve got you covered! You’ll be surprised how interesting you really are! Your magazine has a great team of professionals ready to guide you on the simple, fast, and easy process of “Bringing People Together” through sharing your story on the cover of the magazine!
We’re here to set your mind at ease and explain the excitement behind how YOU can become a local star.
It Starts With You
Maybe you’ve seen a neighbor on the cover of a recent edition, or you have a striking story that needs to be told. Either way, contacting Knavolio@bestversionmedia.com with your information is the first step to moving forward.
Give Us The Facts
The next step is providing your story. It’s as easy as describing your favorite hobbies and restaurants in the
area, what activities your family participates in within the neighborhood, and why you love your community. All you have to do is fill out a questionnaire or complete a short interview. This process is entirely free and you can provide as much information as you’re comfortable with. We would also like photos of your smiling family as they are out enjoying all our neighborhood has to offer. You’ll even get set up with our Photographer to capture professional photos of your family doing what they do best—having fun!
During this phase, you will also sign our Feature Article Release, a form that allows us to publish the information you provide.
Wait For The Magic
Once you’ve sent off your completed questionnaire, our Content Coordinator will get started whipping up your article! The best part? You’ll get a sneak peek of the story before it goes to print! We’ll give you an opportunity to review the story to ensure all facts are correct and that you’re happy with the information being shared! We know waiting is the hardest part, but during this time you’ll also be able to place an order to receive copies and share with all your friends and family.
And it’s as easy as that! Once the magazine appears in mailboxes, enjoy being a local star by sharing your story with your neighbors. We’d love to have you and your family grace the cover of our magazine, so reach out today and become a local star!
Contact Kara Navolio today: knavolio@bestverstionmedia.com
Impact100 East Bay Grants $331,000 to Deserving Alameda and Contra Costa County Nonprofits
By Claudine Young
Inspired by the concept of creating a greater impact by pooling donations, Impact100 East Bay facilitates collective philanthropic giving by women to local East Bay organizations. At this year’s Grant Celebration, Impact100 awarded $331,000 in grants:
• $100,000 Impact Grant – Planting Justice for a community food truck to deliver fresh, organic produce — priced on a sliding scale — to underserved East Bay neighborhoods, increasing access to healthy food for all.
• $85,000 Changemaker Grant – Child Advocates of Contra Costa County (CASA) to expand their academic and health tutoring program, helping more foster youth thrive both in school and in life.
• $75,000 Changemaker Grant – Hack the Hood to launch a certification program to equip underserved youth with the skills
needed to pursue jobs in artificial intelligence and technology fields.
• $71,000 Community Grant – Opportunity Junction to support the expansion of their successful career advancement pilot, providing ongoing career advancement tools and coaching for graduates of their administrative and medical assistant programs.
You can learn more about the 2025 grant recipients at impact100eastbay. org/our-impact-copy as well as see our past grant recipients. By aggregating its member’s donations, Impact100 East Bay is able to fund high-impact, transformational grants. Impact100 East Bay has granted more than $1.4 million to 15 deserving nonprofits since it started in 2017. To learn more about or join Impact100 East Bay, go to impact100eastbay.org.
Northgate Football Enjoys Another Successful Season
By Zack Torrey,
Photos by Brandon King, King Design Photography
The Northgate Football program is enjoying another successful season in their 2025 campaign. The Broncos are proud they were able to field a team at all 3 levels again this season for the 3rd year in a row. The Freshman played a tough schedule and finished a very impressive 5-5. The JV team, under first year Head Coach Adam Burleson, had one of the best seasons in school history going 7-3 including massive wins over Clayton Valley and Campolindo.
The Varsity has once again qualified for the playoffs under Coach Ben Ballard, going 5-5 and securing a #6 seed in the Division 5 Northcoast Section playoff bracket. They visit Salesian on Saturday November 15 at 1pm. Stand outs on this year’s Varsity team include NCS Sophomore of the Year Max Cantrell, Wide Receivers Dax Gordon and Bryce Ballard, stand out Linebackers Damon Oberbruner, Thomas Borbley and Liam Fruchtenicht, Senior Lineman Eren Erdem and Charlie Agulles and the two headed monster at Running Back in Micah Anum and Tristan Tolertan. Keep an eye on MaxPreps. com to follow their playoff run!
#22 - Tristan Tolerton
Dax Gordon
#70 - Will Jahnke
Dax Gordon
#10 - Max Cantrell
#25 Micah Anum
A Stellar Year for Boys Water Polo
Submitted by Tyler Rosecrans
The Northgate Boys Water Polo team enjoyed a highly successful 2025 season featuring an exceptionally deep team inspired by the veteran leadership of our seniors, including All-DAL selections Oliver Knoflick and Zane Belanger. We opened with a 3-1 record at our season opening tournament against some of the top ranked teams in California, despite our All-DAL goalie Riley Parker losing two teeth during the tournament, to successful tournaments throughout California, and our season ending one goal loss in the semifinals of the NCS Division 1 tournament, the team showed heart, grit and dedication.
Hardened competitors in the pool, the team’s strength was the players’ dedication to each other and to the team vision. Weekly team breakfasts and dinners, out of pool team building events, open ocean training, alumni games, and the exciting game of Balls all served to create memories and lasting friendships, which is really the goal of the Northgate Water Polo program.
