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.
It’s the season of giving thanks, and I truly hope that each and every one of you, my neighbors, has found reasons to be grateful this year. I continue to be grateful for this magazine that focuses on good news and helps us all get to know our neighbors better. I am also thankful for those that opened their homes and shared their families with me and our community this year and for those neighbors that read our magazine each month and support our local businesses. And to our businesses, thank you for allowing us to create this magazine.
Our feature residents this month, the Leglu family, have a great story to share. Jenna grew up here in the neighborhood, and after many years away has returned with her husband and children to raise her family in the same home she grew up in. Enjoy this month’s issue and Happy Thanksgiving to all!
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.
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
Sun., Nov. 2
Made in the Shade Family Fall Festival
@Shadelands SportsMall
Enjoy a day with family and friends at Made in the Shade, hosted by Shadelands Walnut Creek and held at the Shadelands SportsMall, 2640 Shadelands Drive, Walnut Creek. Free and family-friendly, Made in the Shade features live music, food trucks, ice cream, craft beer, exhibitors, giveaways, demonstrations, and sports activities for all ages, including yoga, soccer, gymnastics, basketball, taekwondo, and batting cages. Local taproom Calicraft Brewing Co. will bring its best microbrews and spritzers to the table. Visit Made in the Shade at VisitShadelands.com/made-shade for more information and to register as an exhibitor. Time: 11am-2pm
Sun., Nov. 9 and Sat., Nov. 15
Fun Ride - Explore Mountain Biking with Contra Costa Composite Team
@Near Northgate High School; exact location provided after registration
Thinking about joining the Contra Costa Composite Mountain Bike Team? Our fall Fun Rides are the perfect way to try it out. Riders of all levels are welcome! Nov. 9 is girls only, Nov. 15 is for everyone and there is another ride on Dec. 6. Bring your bike, meet the coaches, and discover how fun mountain biking can be. Riders must register beforehand and a parent signed release form is required. https://cccmtb.com/fun Time: 9am
Wed., Nov. 12
Sip and Shop
@Boundary Oak
SIP Goods and Planet Renu will be co-hosting the annual Phoenix Boutique sponsored by Boundary Oak Golf Course! Come join us for a holiday sip and shop, support a great selection of local artist and artisanal vendors, participate in a win-win raffle, listen to seasonal music, enjoy tasty bites, free massage, live art demos - all to raise much needed funds for the Child Life Program (Art Therapy) at Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland. Free appetizers and cash bar. Cost: Free Time: 4-8pm
Fri., Nov. 21
Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
@Civic Park
Celebrate the return of Walnut Creek’s Holiday Tree Lighting in Civic Park. Join us as we celebrate the magic of the season and add to this year’s holiday decorations in the downtown. Enjoy family fun with hot cocoa, festive carolers, and more!
Time: 5:30pm
Fri., Nov. 21 through Jan. 19
Walnut Creek on Ice
@Civic Park
Get your skate on at the Downtown Walnut Creek ice rink from November 21, 2025, through January 19, 2026. Walnut Creek On Ice offers group lessons and open skating times and is also available for private parties and events. Bring your family or friends and celebrate the holidays on ice! The rink is open daily, however the times/pricing changes daily. Visit https://walnutcreekonice. com/ for more information.
Sat., Nov. 22
Craft Fest
@Bedford Gallery
Join us to celebrate independent makers and shop their creative wares! Treat yourself with a variety of unique goods and kickstart your holiday shopping. Craft Fest admission is always FREE to the public. Time: 10am-5pm
Sat., Nov. 29
Santa Claus Visit and Photos
@Shadelands Ranch Museum
Santa Claus is coming to Shadelands Ranch. Enjoy a holiday meet ’n’ greet with Mr. & Mrs. Claus at the Shadelands Ranch gazebo, and bring your camera to capture the moments. Tickets will be available for purchase beginning October 1, 2025, and everyone over the age of one year must have a ticket. www. wchistory.org/events for reservations. Time: 10am-3pm
Nov. 29-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
Throughout November 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 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
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.
Trevor Adams and Ian Anderson 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. Trevor and Ian bring years of experience in the independent service and repair business and own additional stores in Castro Valley and Albany.
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.
Leglu Family: Coming Home Meet the
By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991; Photos provided by The Leglu Family
Two years ago, Jenna Leglu returned to the home she grew up in, along with her husband of 17 years and two children. They wanted to be closer to family.
Jenna says, “Since I grew up here, it truly feels like home to me! But I always loved it and wanted to raise a family here. The wide tree-lined streets and beautiful homes make me feel like I’m living in a movie sometimes. Not to mention the great schools and close access to downtown Walnut Creek.”
Jenna was born in Walnut Creek and grew up going to Walnut Acres, Foothill Middle School, and Northgate High School. She danced at Dance Connection and was a cheerleader at Northgate HS. She obtained her BA in psychology from San Francisco State. Ryan was born in Santa Clara and raised in Livermore. He grew up an avid outdoorsman and earned his Eagle Scout in Boy Scouts. He obtained a BS in Business at Cal State Monterey Bay.
Jenna and Ryan met in 2000 in San Ramon at an over-18 dance club. “It was a short-lived fling,” says Jenna. At 18 years old their “long-distance relationship”
couldn’t weather the demands of school and work. “The relationship lasted just a few months; Ryan would come to watch me perform as a Warriors Girl when the Warriors were practically giving tickets away. Times have certainly changed!” Five years later, Jenna’s sister Natalie spotted Ryan at a Trader Joe’s in San Diego. “With a little internet sleuthing I was able to get his phone number and called him out of the blue one night,” adds Jenna. They were engaged two years later.
After dancing with the Warriors, Jenna danced for the LA Clippers, LA Lakers, and the Oakland Raiders. As a Raiderette, she was able to dance with her sister Natalie, a very special experience. Later she taught Pre-K for 9 years. Her time as a Raiderette made her a huge Raiders fan, while Ryan’s allegiance is to the 49ers. So while they are a house divided over football, they both root for the Warriors and the Cal Bears.
Ryan’s love of camping and backpacking is a perfect fit with his career as he is now the Director of Digital Operations at The North Face. Their Denver headquarters means Ryan has to travel for work but is able to work remotely as well.
Julian, a 6th grader at Foothill, loves baseball, and as a lefty has enjoyed 1st base and pitching. He also loves the beach, friends, learning, Roblox, video games and sleeping (as all 11-year-olds do!).
Gia, a 3rd grader at Walnut Acres, loves dance, like her mama. She dances at The Dance House and enjoys cheerleading too. She also loves writing, her family, skincare, friends and their dog, Cava. Cava is a oneyear-old Samoyed. She came to the family after the Leglu’s moved to Walnut Creek. They spent four years in Colorado for Ryan’s work where they made wonderful lifelong friends.
Now that they are back in the Bay Area, the Leglus spend a lot of time with their extended families, taking annual trips to Arnold, Bass Lake and Lake Tahoe and getting together often. Ryan is a true MacGyver, doing house projects and rebuilding a 1986 Harley
Jenna and Ryan in 2000
Davidson (1 of only 1000 made). He is also an amazing cook and griller/smoker, and the Leglu home has become a gathering place for family dinners.
Jenna’s family heritage has created some fun traditions. Her father, Alan, is an Italian American and a member of the social club The Fratellanza Club in Oakland. Jenna and her siblings grew up going to huge family dinners there. Ryan is now a member too. Jenna’s mom, Teresa, was a Native American Indian and a member of the Lakota Sioux Tribe. “I grew up visiting my grandmother in South Dakota who lived on a reservation. We attended Powwows, and I learned I am a descendent of Crazy Horse. We have taken our kids to the Stanford, CA Pow-wows to help immerse them in their Native American heritage.”
Like so many other people who grew up here in Northgate, Jenna is grateful to be able to return to the neighborhood she grew up in. Jenna
Warm Spaces for Memorable Gatherings
Plan Now, Enjoy Later: Why Fall Is the Perfect Time to Dream About Remodeling
By Gordon Reese, Gordon Reese Design Build, Resident since 2008
As the holidays approach, most homeowners aren’t eager to dive into a major remodel. After all, this is the season for gathering, cooking, and celebrating with family—not dodging dust and construction. At Gordon Reese Design Build, we understand that timing matters. Fall is often less about swinging hammers and more about dreaming, planning, and setting the stage for a smooth project in the new year.
Enjoy the Season, Plan for the Future
A remodel doesn’t have to disrupt your holiday traditions. Instead, this is the perfect time to reflect on how your home is working for you. Did the kitchen feel cramped while preparing a holiday meal? Could your living room flow better for gatherings? Would an extra guest suite or ADU make hosting easier? These everyday pain points are the clues that help you design a home that truly supports your lifestyle.
Why Fall Planning Pays Off
By starting the design process now, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running once the holidays are over. Our design-build approach ensures accurate investment ranges from the beginning, so you can plan with clarity and confidence—eliminating surprises later.
Make Next Year Your Year of Comfort
This season, enjoy the comfort of your home as it is—but also imagine how it could be. From kitchens and baths to additions and outdoor spaces, your vision can become reality with the right plan in place. At Gordon Reese Design Build, we’ve spent over 40 years helping families design with confidence and build with certainty.
So, while you savor the season with loved ones, let us help you plan a remodel that will make next year even more joyful.
Northgate Cross Country Team Sets School Record
Submitted by Kelly Cooper
Girls Varsity continue their exciting undefeated season. Their first DAL match up in leagues saw them break an 11 year winning streak by Campolindo to secure the top spot at DAL 1 at Hidden Valley. In October they won their third consecutive invitational at the Artichoke Invite, following wins at Ed Sias and Farmers, with Captain Olivia Joseph setting the fastest time on the course in NG history, and four girls entering our top ten list on the course, that we have been racing at since 2008.
It was a banner day for the team as we also celebrated our first double victory there. The Boys’ team also won the Invitational and brought home their own plaque, with Captain Francis Chmielewski also getting his name on this historic All Time List of fast times. The boys secured the win by close pack running with seniors Joaquin Guerrero and Ismael Opeyany getting individual medals and leading a crew of younger runners to victory.
Know a student achieving in academics, sports, or the arts? Nominate them so we can celebrate our neighborhood’s youth! Send an email to knavolio@bestversionmedia.com.
Building Strength
On and Off the Trails: Join the Contra Costa Composite Mountain Bike Team
By Gordon Reese, Resident since 2008
Every fall, as the days grow cooler and the trails around Walnut Creek come alive with color, our community gears up for another exciting season with the Contra Costa Composite Mountain Bike Team. This program brings together middle and high school riders from across the area, offering young athletes a chance to push their limits, explore local trails, and build friendships that last long after the season ends.
What makes mountain biking unique is how inclusive it can be. Riders of all abilities are welcome—beginners learning their first technical climbs ride alongside more seasoned athletes chasing race goals. Parents often join practices, riding and coaching alongside their kids, making this one of the few sports where the whole family can truly participate together.
Beyond riding skills, we emphasize values that reach far beyond the bike. Confidence, resilience, teamwork, and stewardship of our trails are cornerstones of the program. Last season, our riders volunteered on Mount Diablo, helping maintain and improve local trails— an experience that underscored the importance of advocacy and shared access for all trail users.
This year, we’re especially excited to welcome new riders. Whether you’re looking for a supportive team environment, a new way to stay active, or simply love being outdoors, mountain biking offers it all. Our Fun Ride series is the perfect way to try it out before the season begins:
• Sun., Nov 9 – GRiT Ride (Girls Only)
• Sat., Nov 15
• Sat., Dec 6
These rides are casual, inclusive, and a great way to meet coaches, parents, and fellow riders.
As someone who balances coaching with running Gordon Reese Design Build, I see strong parallels between the two worlds. Both are about
building—whether it’s helping families create homes that work better for them or helping kids build confidence and strength on the trails. Each brings me a deep sense of purpose and joy.
If you know a middle or high schooler who’s ready for adventure, encourage them to join us. You’ll find the fun ride dates in this issue’s calendar, and more details are available at cccmtb.com. Let’s make this season our best yet! Registration and parent consent form are required and can be found on the website. After registration, you will be given the meeting point.
We are looking for more coaches to join our team, especially female coaches. Please reach out if you are interested.
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.
Starting Nov. 1, we will have new adoption hours.
Adoption Hours
Mon-Fri: 12 – 7 PM
Sat-Sun: 11 AM-6 PM (Early sign-in begins at 9 AM)
Business Hours
Mon-Sun: 9 AM – 5 PM
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
• $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
Edward
Stevie Cloud Mocha
Syrah
Eucalyptus
Real Estate Listings in Northgate
$4,895,000
$4,288,500
$3,095,000
$2,995,000
$2,650,000
Pending Listings
$1,650,000
$1,599,000
$1,469,000
$1,189,000
$1,725,000
$1,525,000
$1,525,000
$1,525,000
$1,500,000
Friday Night Bites
By Lisa Crossett, Resident since 2001
Friday nights are special for us. They mark the end of a busy work week and the beginning of a relaxing weekend — a time to unwind, open a wonderful bottle of wine, and enjoy a delicious spread of small bites. This has been our cherished tradition for more than 13 years, and it’s one we plan to continue for many more. Whether it’s just the two of us or shared with friends, it’s always a highlight of the week.
A few weeks ago, a dear friend joined us for one of these evenings, and we decided to create an appetizer feast worthy of the occasion. The table was filled with tried-and-true favorites that have become crowd-pleasers over the years. To complement our spread, we opened a special bottle — the 2019 Louis Martini Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon.
This mountain-grown Cabernet is unmistakably rustic. The 2019 vintage opens with aromas of red currant and cherry, layered with hints of forest floor, thyme, and fresh cedar. The full-bodied palate reveals notes of chocolate-covered cherries and blueberries, supported by ripe, dusty tannins. It’s a wine that will continue to evolve beautifully over the next decade or two — a true reward for those who cellar it. As longtime wine club members, we can say Louis Martini is a legacy Napa winery well worth visiting.
Our appetizer spread included caprese bites with balsamic glaze, 3-year aged gouda with my homemade balsamic fig jam and pita crackers, hummus with colorful veggies, Moroccan meatballs, and petite parmesan-pepper gougères.
If you’re looking for a way to kick off the weekend, I highly recommend hosting your own Friday Night Bites evening. Mix homemade dishes with store-bought favorites — it’s about enjoyment, not effort! One of my go-to stops for easy and delicious appetizers is Trader Joe’s, which always has a great cheese selection and an array of irresistible frozen bites. Some of my favorites include spanakopita, vegetable spring rolls, fried mac and cheese balls, parmesan pastry pups, mini chicken tacos, vegetable birds’ nests, mini quiches, and fried olive bites.
Of all the things I love to make, the gougères are hands-down my favorite. They’re always a hit and surprisingly simple to prepare. People assume they’re complicated, but they’re actually quite easy — and you can get creative by mixing up the flavors for fun, savory variations. Here’s the recipe — enjoy, and maybe start your own Friday night tradition!
Petite Parmesan-Pepper Gougères
Makes 35 to 40 gougères
Ingredients
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 pound (1 stick) unsalted butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 extra-large eggs
• 1 cup freshly grated Italian Parmesan cheese, plus extra for sprinkling
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
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)
2. In a saucepan, heat the milk, butter, a large pinch salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper over medium heat, just until scalded. Add the flour all at once and beat it vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture comes together. Lower the heat and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes. Dump the mixture into the bowl of a food processor fitted with the steel blade. Immediately add the eggs, Parmesan and whip until the eggs are incorporated and the dough is smooth and thick.
3. Using a small cookie scoop (equivalent to 1 tablespoon) scoop the mixture placing 1 inch apart onto the prepared baking sheets. Sprinkle a pinch of parmesan cheese onto each one. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown outside but still soft inside. Serve hot.
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
Prepping Your House and Furnace for the Fall and Winter
By Chris Donzelli, Owner of Perfect Star Heating, Cooling & Electrical
Asthe mornings get cooler and the days grow shorter here in the East Bay, I’m reminded every year of how important it is to prepare our homes for the fall and winter. Having worked in heating and cooling for decades, I’ve seen the difference that a little seasonal preparation can make—not only in keeping families warm and safe but also in lowering utility bills and avoiding costly repairs.
Here are a few of the best ways I recommend homeowners get their houses and furnaces ready before the first cold snap hits.
1. Schedule a Furnace Tune-Up
Your furnace has likely been sitting idle for most of the summer. Before you flip the switch for the season, it’s critical to have it professionally inspected and serviced. A tune-up ensures that the system is running efficiently, checks for any carbon monoxide risks, and catches small issues before they turn into major problems. Think of it like an oil change for your car—you wouldn’t want to head into a long road trip without it. Find our $59 special in this Northgate Living issue!
2. Replace or Clean Your Air Filters
This is one of the simplest and most effective steps you can take. A clogged filter forces your furnace to work harder, driving up your energy bills and putting unnecessary strain on the system. For most homes, replacing filters every 1–3 months is a good rule of thumb. Not only will your system run better, but your indoor air quality will improve as well—something we can all appreciate during flu and allergy season.
3. Seal Up Drafts and Insulate
Even the best furnace can’t keep you comfortable if your home is leaking warm air. Check around doors, windows, and attic spaces for drafts, and use weatherstripping or caulking where needed. Proper insulation in your attic and walls can significantly cut heat loss, making your home more energy-efficient and reducing wear and tear on your furnace.
4. Test Your Thermostat
Before the temperature drops, switch your thermostat over to heating mode and make sure it’s working properly. If you’re still using a traditional thermostat, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat. These allow you to set schedules or control your system remotely, helping you save energy without sacrificing comfort.
5. Check Safety Devices
Fall is also a great time to test your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Your furnace is a fuel-burning appliance, and while modern systems are extremely safe, no home should be without working detectors. Replace batteries if needed and make sure you have one on every level of your house.
6. Clear the Area Around Your Furnace
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen furnaces surrounded by boxes, decorations, or storage bins. Keeping at least three feet of clearance around your furnace not only ensures proper airflow but also reduces fire hazards.
Final Thoughts
Prepping your home for the colder months doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A few proactive steps now can save you money, extend the life of your system, and, most importantly, keep your family safe and comfortable all season long. If you haven’t scheduled your fall furnace tune-up yet, now is the perfect time to give Perfect Star a call.
Stay warm this season,
From Dispatch to Chief
By Frank Napoli, Resident since 1996, Member of Police Chief’s Advisory board 2023-24
As Chief Jamie Knox prepares to retire after more than 30 years, he reflects on the trials, and triumphs and the moments that mattered most.
As Chief Jamie Knox prepares to retire after more than 30 years in law enforcement, he reflects on a career defined by dedication, resilience, and leadership. The walls of his Walnut Creek Police Department office, soon to be bare, are filled with memories— commendations and accreditations that tell the story of a man who has shaped both his agency and his community.
Early Beginnings
Knox’s journey began as a 20-year-old dispatcher in Rocklin, CA, guiding officers through chaotic graveyard shifts. His passion for teamwork was evident early, from Little League baseball to Boy Scouts, and later as a Cadet and 9-1-1 Dispatcher in Roseville. Yet, Knox quickly realized he wanted to be out on the streets, directly serving the community. “Wearing a headset and telling the police where the action was just didn’t do it for me. I wanted to be out on the street—where it happens,” he recalls.
A self-professed perfectionist, Knox’s attention to detail and high standards became hallmarks of his leadership style. He built a reputation for being direct, fair, and transparent, expecting the same level of excellence from his team of 150 personnel.
Diverse Roles and Memorable Assignments
After his time in Roseville, Knox was hired by Rocklin where he served in patrol, SWAT, as a K9 handler, Field Training Officer, and detective. As a detective, he was certified as a child forensic interviewer, handling major assaults, child abuse cases, homicides, and sexual assaults. Promoted to sergeant in 2007, he returned to patrol, later overseeing the Traffic Unit, SWAT, and the regional bomb team as a lieutenant.
Among his most memorable assignments was his time as a K9 handler. His German Shepherd partner was trained in protection, tracking, and narcotics detection, forging a bond of mutual trust. Knox also cherished his role as a Field Training Officer, passionate about teaching new officers to be safe and effective. “I was a very intense teacher because I wanted to make sure that anyone going through my portion of
patrol training would take away some nuggets that would help keep them safe and be a better cop,” he says.
Knox’s work as a detective was particularly meaningful when advocating for child victims. He recalls a case where a child’s accusation was dismissed by adults, but Knox’s experience and intuition led him to believe the child. After a heartfelt prayer on his drive back to the station, he secured a confession and conviction. “There is no greater reward than securing justice for a crime victim—especially when it’s a child,” Knox reflects.
Leadership and Advanced Training
Knox’s commitment to professional growth led him to the prestigious FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia—a three-month immersion program for top law enforcement leaders. The Academy not only enhanced his leadership and investigative skills but also connected him to a global policing network. Knox recently sponsored a captain to attend, underscoring his belief in the program’s value.
Throughout his career, Knox credits his mentors and colleagues for his success. To pay it forward, he promoted six of eight officers on his Command Staff, some twice, and inspired several officers from his former agency to join him in Walnut Creek.
Challenges and Resilience
Policing is not for the faint of heart, Knox admits. Officers often encounter people on their worst days, and some cases continue to haunt him. “Everyone processes them differently. To help decompress and maintain mental wellness, departments offer psychological services and coping strategies. It’s also important to have outside activities or hobbies that require focus to completely take your mind off policing,” he advises.
Knox’s career includes 20 years in supervisory roles and 15 years in management, with a decade at the executive level. Leadership at this stage means overseeing people, departments, and multimillion-dollar budgets. Rather than relief, Knox describes this responsibility as “an honor and a privilege to be taken seriously.”
Looking Ahead
For Knox, the badge has always represented a personal commitment to listen, protect, and serve—a promise that guided his career with integrity and purpose. What won’t he miss?
“Those emergency calls at two or three in the morning that demand immediate action. Or having to check my email twice a day, every single day—including Christmas— to read shift reports and stay informed,” he laughs.
Even with trusted captains leading divisions, Knox maintained high involvement, giving autonomy but remaining accountable for all 150 staff members.
Retirement Plans
After more than 30 years—including 13 on the graveyard shift—Knox is ready to reclaim time lost to missed holidays and family milestones. He looks forward to reconnecting with nature through travel, camping, and backpacking in places like Yosemite, as well as hobbies like fishing, woodworking, and metalwork.
Chief Jamie Knox’s legacy is undoubtedly one of service, integrity, and lasting impact—a career truly worth remembering.
“Chief Knox came in at a challenging time in Walnut Creek. We were in the throes of the Pandemic and protests were a common part of public activity. His leadership of the WCPD was the perfect blend of community policing and enforcement to bring us through the next 5 years.” Mayor Pro Tem Kevin Wilk
“Chief Knox arrived when strong leadership was exactly what we needed. He led with purpose, striking a thoughtful balance between coaching us individually and moving at the pace required for the future. He helped build a healthy police culture that strengthened both our department and our community relationship.” Captain Ryan Hibbs – Administrative Services Div.
