Northgate Living Magazine October 2018

Exclusively Serving the Northgate Community.

OC T OBER 2 018

Northgate LIVING

M E E T T HE

Wilk Family: Committed to Community Service COVER PHOTO:

by Julie Cheshire Photography

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OCTOBER 2018

Northgate

Dear Neighbors, Whether you love football, are following the baseball playoffs toward the World Series, getting excited to watch the World Champion Warriors get started again, or are a hockey enthusiast, October is a good time to be a sports fan! I do love watching my teams, but enjoying the outdoors with the cooling temperatures and the fall colors is also on the top of my list. It’s also fun to see homes decorated with ghosts and goblins and the neighborhood kids in their costumes. Fall might be my favorite time to cook, especially using all the fall foods available at the farmers’ market right now like figs, pumpkins, apples and squashes. You will love the fabulous moist Pumpkin Bread recipe you’ll find in this issue.

LIVING

Publication Team Publisher: Jo Peek

Content Coordinator: Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991 Designer: Emily Lund Contributing Photographer: Julie Cheshire

and the maxillofacial This month you’ll also meetThe your oral neighbors, Wilk family, aprocedures family committed to serving our community.

Our community calendar has fun some dental implants suggestions on how to celebrate the changing of the seasons to the fullest, and don’t forget to vote on Nov. 6! bone grafting

Advertising Contact: Jo Peek Email: JPeek@bestversionmedia.com

o

removal ofnews wisdom teeth We are devoted to sharing stories, events and among our neighbors in this wonderful community. If you have a story, jaw event or news to share please corrective surgery email me at knavolio@bestversionmedia.com. We are looking for neighbors trauma reconstruction of all types to feature on the cover, including seniors, single people, families young and old, young couples,treatment empty-nesters, any all. Please nominate a ofand nerve injuries neighbor or yourself!

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.

Warmly,

Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2018 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

oral pathology

Kara Navolio

Northgate Living Content Coordinator Resident Since 1991

Our practice covers the diagnostic, surg defects of a person’s mouth, jaw and fac

We treat both functional and cosmetic c

and diagnose the problem and then, to h Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery costCA, effective 1800 San Miguel Drive, Walnutmost Creek, 94596way Phone: (925) 933-6190 • Fax: The(925) Sierra945-7320 Miguel Professional Center:

Diplomate, American Board Of Oral And Maxillofacial Surgery.

Phone: 925-933-6190 The oral and maxillofacial procedures offered by Dr. Nestor Karas include: Website: www.drnestorkaras.com Phone: 925-933-6190

• Dental implants • Bone grafting • Removal of wisdom teeth • Corrective jaw surgery • Trauma reconstruction • Treatment of nerve injuries • Oral pathology Our practice covers the diagnostic, surgical and rehabilitative procedures to treat injuries, diseases and defects of a person’s mouth, jaw and facial areas. We treat both functional and cosmetic conditions for patients of all ages. Please visit our website at www.drnestorkaras to find out more about Dr. Karas and his practice.

NORTHGATE LIVING 3

Calendar of Events | October Wed., Oct. 10

Author Gregory Crouch discusses his book The Bonanza King

@Walnut Creek Library Live! from the Library is pleased to welcome author Gregory Crouch to discuss his latest book, The Bonanza King: John Mackay and the Battle Over the Greatest Fortune in the American West. Following the program, books will be available for purchase and signing by the author. Lured by dreams of striking it rich in gold-rush era California, Mackay left behind his impoverished life in New York City and headed west. But a valuable tip about treasure in neighboring Nevada proved more fortunate. Crouch masterfully recounts a confluence of events involving Mackay’s toil and tenacity mixed with a bit of luck and how it led to the discovery of one of the most valuable caches of gold and silver in the American west. Advanced registration is encouraged.

Cost: Free Time: 7-8:30pm www.wclibrary.org/live or 925-935-5395

Sat., Oct. 13

Community Service Day @Locations all around Walnut Creek Join your neighbors and volunteer your time to help nonprofits, community groups, and public entities with projects they need completed.

Time: 9am-2:30pm (2.5 hour shifts) www.walnut-creek.org

Sat., Oct. 13

Walnut Creek Downtown History Tour @Fountain at Liberty Bell Plaza (corner of Broadway and Mt. Diablo) Visit the past in downtown Walnut Creek on a tour sponsored by the Walnut Creek Historical Society. This easy 90-minute guided walking tour on city sidewalks brings to life the early times of Walnut Creek revealing surprises about places we walk over, under, or by without realizing the stories they have to tell about Walnut Creek history. Offered the 2nd Saturday of the month, March through October.

Cost: Free Time: 9:30-11am www.wchistory.com or 925-935-7871

Sat., Oct. 20

Public Art Walking Tour @Lesher Center for the Arts on the plaza The 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 can offer information and insight appropriate for all ages. Wear comfortable shoes & sun screen. Reservations not required.

Cost: $5 – cash only Time: 11am-12pm www.walnut-creek.org

Sat., Oct. 20

Oktoberfest @Civic Park Join us in the biergarten or on the dance floor for another epic Oktoberfest in Walnut Creek. It’s a great place to show off your dirndl dress or don the lederhosen (not mandatory!). This free, day-long, family-friendly event recreates the beloved German fall celebration. OktoberfestWC includes live entertainment, music, dancing, arts & crafts, Bier Garden with dozens of craft beers, international music, Kinder Platz Kids Zone, gourmet food booths and over 40 vendors.

Cost: Free admission Time: 11am-6pm

Sat., Oct. 20

Friends of Ygnacio Valley Library Book Sale @ Ygnacio Valley Library Come find your next read and more at the Friends of the Ygnacio Valley Library Book Sale.

Time: 10am-5pm www.ccclib.org

Fri., Oct. 26

Trick or Treat Downtown Walnut Creek @Begin at Lesher Center for the Arts Calling all goblins, superheroes, princesses & witches! You’re invited to creep through downtown collecting Halloween treats from participating businesses while you visit booths and businesses. WCD encourages participants to be eco-friendly. Please bring your own favorite candy bag!

Cost: Free Time: 2-5pm www.walnutcreekdowntown.com

Sat., Oct. 27

Remodeling Seminar @Gordon Reese Design Build Are you thinking of remodeling? Concerned about: how to design, avoiding unexpected costs, understanding mechanics lien laws,

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navigating permit process, completing your project on schedule? We will address these questions and much more Cost: Free Time: 10-12pm www.GordonReese.com or 925-885-3770

Every Monday

Picture Book Time @Ygnacio Valley Library Helps build kindergarten readiness using longer books, flannel board stories, songs, crafts and other literacy building activities for ages 3-5.

Cost: FREE Time: 10:15-11am www.ccclib.org/ygnaciovalley.html

Every Saturday

Farmers’ Market @Shadelands Business Park Farmers bring their best from the nearby farming areas, kid’s craft corner, live music.

Time: 9am-1pm www.cafarmersmkts.com/ diablo-valley-farmers-market

Save the Date…

Sat., Nov. 3

Gourmet East Bay @Broadway Plaza Gourmet East Bay is an upscale event that takes place at Broadway Plaza with a party atmosphere and features premier restaurant tastings, beverages, and dancing.

Many attendees discover restaurants and wineries that they might not have otherwise visited. Raises funds for the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano Counties.

Cost: $75-$90 Time 7-10pm www.diablomag.com/ Gourmet-East-Bay/

Wed., Nov. 7

Ygnacio Valley Book Group @Ygnacio Valley Library All are welcome to drop in and join the discussion. This month’s book is Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders.

Cost: Free Time: 6:30-7:45pm www.ccclib.org/ygnaciovalley.html OCTOBER 2018

Expert Contributors

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

Happy Holidays!

Active Seniors

The Heritage Downtown is “the” Bay Area’s #1 Active Senior Living Apartments, focused on providing the highest Quality of Life for each and every one of its residents. The Heritage Downtown promotes, facilitates and encourages our residents to continue to lead a Full Active Life in Retirement.

The Heritage Downtown is beautifully and conveniently located in Downtown Walnut Creek.

General Contractor

After growing up and working in the construction industry, Jordan Engeldinger decided to use his extensive knowledge and experience to start his own General Contracting business. His contemporary view to the remodeling process brings a refreshing aspect to the construction industry. Jordan is professional, communicative and transparent with his clients. Blue Diamond Builders, Inc. delivers superior c ustomer service while producing a five-star product.

Healthy Aging Medicine

Dr. Kim graduated from the University of Pennsylvania and the Temple University School of Medicine. He completed a Family Medicine Residency at the Carle Clinic in Champaign, Illinois. He started in private practice in Clayton, CA. However, frustrated with the reactive form of medicine, Dr. Kim went for additional training and is now board-certified in Anti-Aging Medicine and in Obesity Medicine. Dr. Kim now practices a more proactive approach to medicine known as Valengerontology (Healthy Aging Medicine). Dr. Kim lives in Danville with his wife and 2 children.

HVAC & Plumbing

Stewart Heating, Air and Plumbing has dedicated its 44 years in business to our customers’ comfort and home efficiency. We believe our customers should have a home more comfortable than their neighbors, breathing the cleanest air, with Eco friendly water, and energy efficient dual fuel heating and cooling systems. We exist to make your life better.

Insurance

Vanessa Sisemore, owner of a Farmers Insurance agency since 2016, grew up in Walnut Creek and received her college degree from UNLV in 2006.

She is the loving wife to Isaac of 7 years and mother to 3-year-old daughter Mckenzie. After working for Farmers for 8 years, Vanessa is proud to serve people in the community that have given her so much.

Jenny Shively The Heritage Downtown www.theheritagedowntown.com (925) 943-7427

Mention this ad to learn more about our

New Year 2018 Move-In Special!

Place a holding deposit before January 1st & The Heritage Downtown will donate $1,000 to the Charity of your Choice this Holiday Season!

Discover the Almond / Shuey Neighborhood, Home to our Boutique, Condo-Style Senior-Living Community!

Call 925.943.7427

to learn more, and to schedule your visit!

www.TheHeritageDowntown.com 1785 Shuey Avenue

(off of Bonanza & California)

Jordan Engeldinger Blue Diamond Builders (925) 362-0168 www.bluediamondbuildersinc.com

Paul H. Kim, MD Previ Medical Group (925) 979-0979 www.Previmd.com

Ryan Stewart Stewart Heating & Air (925) 427-5522 ryan@stewartair.net www.stewartheatingandair.com

Vanessa Sisemore Vanessa Sisemore Insurance Agency (925) 943-6762 vsisemore@farmersagent.com www.farmersagent.com/vsisemore

Mortgage Lending

Erik Oberbruner Diversified Capital Funding NMLS#433990 (925) 586-5474 EOberbruner@divcap.net

Plastic Surgery

Dr. Vivian Ting (Veritas Plastic Surgery) is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Walnut Creek, California in practice since 2003. She specializes in cosmetic rejuvenation of the face, breast augmentation and body contouring as well as reconstruction for breast and skin cancer. Her philosophy is to combine proven surgical techniques with the best in technology to achieve superior results and high patient satisfaction.

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.

Wealth Management & Financial Planning

David and Frank started Nissim & Gavidia Wealth Management & Financial Planning, LLC to give their clients the flexibility and independence that they deserve. They pride themselves in working with families and understanding their long terms goals, from retirement to setting things up for the next generation by removing emotions from investing and taking the time to understand their client’s individual needs.

Dr. Vivian Ting Veritas Plastic Surgery (925) 949-8587 www.viviantingmd.com

Rita Dhillon Compass Real Estate 925.570.1010 Rita.Dhillon@compass.com www.RitaDhillonTeam.com

David Nissim & Frank Gavidia Nissim & Gavidia Wealth Management & Financial Planning, LLC David (925) 239-0117 Frank (925) 239-0116 DavidNissim@NissimGavidia.com FrankGavidia@NissimGavidia.com www.NissimGavidia.com

With over 14 years in mortgage banking, Erik has closed hundreds of transactions for clients, exercising great care and taking time for consultations to ensure they receive the best program to meet their goals. Purchases, refinances, Conventional, FHA/VA, Jumbo products. His business is built on integrity, professionalism and expertise. Referrals and repeat business are key! He is a Little League coach and father of two.

NORTHGATE LIVING 5

Resident Feature

Meet the Wilk Family: Committed to Community Service

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

T

he Wilk family makes involvement in the community a top priority, investing many hours in volunteer work and civic duty. They are another example of what makes the Northgate community great.

Kevin and Jill Wilk met at a bowling alley in San Francisco. It was 1995, and both were attending a Jewish singles event. They married a year later, in 1996, and made their home in the Northgate community in 1997. Showing their dedication to making Northgate their home, it took 10 offers on different homes before they finally had one accepted.

Kevin, who spent his teen years attending high school in Walnut Creek, attended UC Berkeley and UCLA, graduating with a degree in Political Science from UCLA. He may not have known it then, but it would be a harbinger of his future in Walnut Creek.

He first worked as an actor and bartender, then started the first food delivery business in LA, delivering restaurant food to studios, businesses and homes. He returned to Walnut Creek in 1991 working for Entertainment Publications (those thick coupon books that nonprofits used to sell).

Eventually he began working in internet marketing with Microsoft, Yahoo, and now Experian.

Jill, a Burlingame native, graduated from the University of Washington with a BA in Theatre and Speech Communications.

She then went on to receive a MS degree in Human Resources Management and Organizational Behavior from Golden Gate University. She owns her human resources consultant business and works as an HR Director for a local medical practice.

Both Kevin and Jill were driven to get involved in local government. In 1999 Kevin was appointed to the Walnut Creek Arts

Nala and Simba with the Wilk family

Commission, overseeing the Dean Lesher Center and the city arts programming.

In 2008 he was then appointed to the Transportation Commission, overseeing transportation projects and budgets for eight years. Kevin states, “Several important traffic projects were approved and completed during my terms, including improved pedestrian safety at our schools, dedicated turn signals at Ygnacio and Heather Farm, and requiring road notices prior to Bancroft if a lane was closed so that people could alternatively take Treat Blvd.”

In 2016, with encouragement from friends and residents, he ran for City Council and won a seat against three incumbents. He is concerned with housing costs, traffic and the balance between overgrowth and no growth. Leaning on his background in internet technology, he was able to work with the city to launch free Wi-Fi in the downtown area. He enjoys chatting with residents and is open to meeting up to discuss ideas and concerns. Jill also volunteers time to work for the city; she is part of the Police Department’s VIPS (Volunteers in Police Service) program, working in police records.

Jill is also a passionate volunteer with ARF. She and the family dog, Simba, a 10-yearold cocapoo and AKC certified therapy dog, participate in the Pet Hug Pack program.

The pair visits various organizations throughout the East Bay including John Muir Hospital making people smile. (For more details about this ARF program, see the story on page 14 of this issue.)

Both Kevin and Jill also held roles as school volunteers while their two children attended Walnut Acres, Foothill and Northgate.

Kevin also coached their Walnut Creek Soccer Club teams, Little League baseball and CYO basketball.

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Darielle, 21, was part of Northgate’s Class of 2015. She is a senior at the University of Arizona, pursuing a degree in Human Behavior and Social Understanding, with a minor in Social Media Strategy. Her passion for understanding other cultures led her to study abroad in Italy for a semester.

Shane, 18, an avid athlete, played soccer, basketball, ran track and lettered on the varsity tennis team all four years of high school. While at Northgate he started the sports broadcasting team, broadcasting the football and basketball games online. He is using this talent and passion as he pursues a Sports Broadcasting degree from the University of Nevada, Reno.

In addition to therapy dog Simba, the family also has a 3-year-old cat named Nala who sleeps all day and meows in the middle of the night!

The family loves to travel and enjoys vacations ranging from skiing to body surfing, from Australia to Europe. This past summer they traveled to Cuba, which was truly a different experience entirely with absolutely no western tourism influence.

“No hotel, retail or food chains of any sort.

While nobody in the household smokes, taking a tour of the Cuban Cigar factory was a highlight of the trip. Hot and humid conditions inside, and most cigar rollers have been there over 20 years! And of course, traveling in a 1954 Cadillac was special for the whole family!” explains Kevin.

But they love coming home to Northgate.

“Walnut Creek, and especially Northgate, really is the perfect place to raise a family. We’ve been so happy here, and enjoy the friendliness of neighbors, residents, and businesses. I remember after attending a dinner while Kevin was on the Transportation Commission and telling him OCTOBER 2018

‘We can never leave this place!’” says Jill.

Kevin adds, “The location has been perfect.

It was close enough for the kids to walk to Foothill and bike/walk to Walnut Acres.

We have easy access to Safeway, and now Whole Foods, or a 5 minute weekend trip to Ace for that needed thingamajig. On a weekend evening we can often be found walking to and eating at our favorite sushi restaurant, Toyo Sushi, at the Encina center.

Our neighbors all have had children go to our local schools, and everyone is always happy to chat or discuss the latest local or school news.”

Although Kevin is not up for re-election this fall, he encourages everyone to vote on November 6. “With about 45,000 voters in Walnut Creek and 5 opponents running for 2 seats this year, voting is so important.

The difference between 2nd and 3rd place for city council in 2016 was less than 100 votes! This is an election where your vote REALLY counts. And it’s important to

remember that the city council handles the needs that our residents have in their daily lives: roads, downtown construction, traffic, parking, and much more. As the saying goes, ‘When you have a pothole in front of your house, you don’t call your Assemblyman or Congressman...you call City Hall.’”

Wilk family in Cuba

A vote for City Council is also a vote for Mayor. Kevin explains, “Walnut Creek also has a rotating Mayor, which means that every December, the city council votes on who the next mayor will be. This is usually based upon a pre-approved rotation, with the Mayor Pro-Tem (similar to Vice Mayor) being voted in as Mayor. A newly elected Councilmember takes his/her place in the back of the rotation.”

The Wilk family has been involved in serving our community and offering a helping hand for over 25 years. It’s great to have a city council member right here in

Wilk family visits England

our neighborhood. Kevin is eager to listen to residents’ ideas and concerns, so don’t hesitate to introduce yourself.

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.

REVEAL YOUR TRUE BEAUTY Vivian Ting, MD, FACS Veritas Plastic Surgery 1776 Ygnacio Valley Road, Suite 202 Walnut Creek, CA 94598 (925) 949-8587, Fax (925) 949-8420 www.veritasplasticsurgery.com

Surgical and Non-Surgical Rejuvenation of the Face, Neck and Eyes Breast Augmentation, Lift and Reduction Body Contouring and Buttock Enhancement Tummy tucks and Mommy Makeovers Scarless Breast, Arm and Face lifts with BodyTite and Facetite Ultherapy and Laser Botox, Fillers (liquid facelifts) and Skin Care

• Chair, Division of Plastic Surgery • John Muir Medical Center Walnut Creek • Clinical Assistant Professor, UCSF • Board Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery • Harvard Plastic Surgery Residency Training Program • Voted a Top California Plastic Surgeon

NORTHGATE LIVING 7

Finance 101: Fall 2018 Series

By Susan Moon, Executive Director of Walnut Creek Library Foundation Local financial and legal experts are offering a series of free workshops designed to take the guesswork out of planning for the future.

They will discuss estate planning, transferring family wealth to the next generation, planning for nursing home expenses, and investing in a late-stage bull market as part of Finance 101, which is presented by the Walnut Creek Library Foundation. The workshops will be held from 7:00-8:00 p.m. in the Oak View Room at the Walnut Creek Library, 1644 N. Broadway. Individuals can sign up for any one or more of the programs. Space is limited.

Attendees must register to reserve a seat online at www.wclibrary.org/finance101 or by phone at 925.935.5395.

Oct. 4: Estate Planning: What You Really Need to Know Presenter: R. Gordon Baker, Jr., Estate Planning Attorney Estate planning is the process of arranging for the efficient transfer of your property to the persons you choose during your life or after your death and providing for your care

ERIK

if you become incapacitated in the future. An effective estate plan allows your wishes to be carried out while minimizing costs and family conflicts.

Oct. 11: Generational Wealth Management: Helping Families Successfully Transfer Wealth Presenters: George Noceti, CRPS Wealth Advisor Paul Noceti, Financial Planning Specialist Are you concerned about the impact of wealth on your heirs? Are your heirs prepared for the responsibility of wealth? Learn why some families succeed and others do not in the transition of inter-generational wealth. This workshop will also provide clear, easy-tofollow steps to help you successfully evaluate the readiness of your heirs and the strength of your ‘must-have’ wealth transition plan.

Oct. 18: Can Medi-Cal Help You Pay Your Nursing Home Expenses?

Presenter: Kirsten Howe, Estate Planning Attorney

Free workshops at the downtown Walnut Creek Library If you had to add an extra $8,000 - $12,000 to your monthly budget because a spouse or parent needed nursing home care, how long could you do it? With proper planning, you can stop the rapid outflow of cash before it’s all gone. This workshop will provide an overview of Medi-Cal eligibility rules and planning techniques.

Oct. 25: Investing in a Late-Stage Bull Market Presenters: Mike Harris Dir. of Research & Trading, Portfolio Manager Meredith Rosen, Portfolio Manager The current Bull Market, which was born in March of 2009, has now had the longest run in American history. Come hear about this current market as well as what investment and asset allocation considerations are out there for this late-stage Bull Market and eventual end of the Bull Market.

For more information about this and other Walnut Creek Library Foundation programs, please visit www.wclibrary.org, or call 925.935.5395.

LOAN OFFICER NMLS #433990

OBERBRUNER

HOME GROWN WALNUT CREEK NORTHGATE RESIDENT HUSBAND. DAD. Neighbor.

Soccer Coach. Baseball Coach.

You shop, dine & participate local...

Why should your next home loan be any different?

Call Erik Today. 925.586.5474

Keep it local.

a Division of American Pacific Mortgage Corporation, NMLS #1850

Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. Diversified Capital Funding is a Branch of American Pacific Mortgage Corporation. This is not an offer to extend credit or a commitment to lend. All loans subject to underwriting approval. Some products may not be available in all states and restrictions apply. Equal Housing Opportunity. Copyright © 2018 Diversified Capital Funding a Division of American Pacific Mortgage, NMLS #1850, DRE #01215943 3201 Danville Blvd, Suite 295, Alamo, CA 94507

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OCTOBER 2018

Real Estate Listings in Northgate 9/10/2018

Active Listings Street

List Price

Sold Price

441 Silver Hollow Drive 41 Amberwood Ln 4025 Arbolado Dr 168 Brodia Way 227 Castle Rock Rd 602 Creekmore Court 2455 Deer Valley Ln 2101 Dover Ct 301 Downham Ct 2819 Fyne Dr

$1,750,000 $1,995,000 $1,900,000 $2,099,000 $1,198,800 $1,200,000 $3,459,888 $1,350,000 $1,190,000 $949,000

Pending Listings Street

List Price

Sold Price

73 Meadow Walk Place 321 Pickering Place 449 La Casa Via 501 Dover Dr 239 Langlie Ct

$2,199,888 $1,199,000 $1,750,000 $1,195,000 $1,150,000

Sold Listings Street

List Price

Sold Price

232 Clyde Dr 2661 Nethercott Ct 2111 Belford Drive 3117 Bowling Green Dr 2863 San Antonio Dr 1075 Springfield Dr 3624 Springer Ct

$1,600,000 $1,400,000

$1,355,000 $1,365,000

$1,175,000 $998,000

$1,295,000 $1,195,000 $955,000 $950,000

$1,135,000 $1,085,000

$891,500 $899,000

Sq. Ft. Acres 3489 5100 3612 3644 2120 2195 7568 2574 2230 1677

0.28 1.27 0.47 0.92 0.28 0.283 1.5 0.3 0.23 0.18

Sq. Ft. Acres 3775 1929 2696 2074 2471

0.39 0.3 3.34 0.22 0.33

Sq. Ft. Acres 2308 2600 2292 2268 1503 2050 1756

0.25 0.44 0.24 0.27 0.18 0.33 0.16

DOM 8 136 12 98 3 31 102 3 7 3

DOM 44 49 103 7 55

DOM 15 21 6 10 33 12 69

Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in this magazine is separate from any statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.

NORTHGATE LIVING 9

Expert Contributor

A Glimpse of Novel Labs

By Paul H. Kim, M.D, Medical Institute of Healthy Aging

I

n the new field of Healthy Aging Medicine (Valengerontology), we try to look at lab values differently. Many of the labs that are drawn are noted with a reference range that is often interpreted as “normal.” However, the labs often base the reference range on a normal distribution of the population.

Sometimes this common practice can lead to a wide range in values. For example, testosterone in males is often given a range that can go from the mid 200s to the high 1100s. Why such a wide discrepancy in “normal” reference range? One reason may be that the blood results include those males aged in their 20s but also males maybe in their 90s! In Healthy Aging Medicine, we are trying to do optimization of certain parameters to improve one’s health. For instance Vitamin D is often cited at being adequate at 30. However, studies out of Europe suggest that more benefit comes from lab values in the 50-70 range. One of the issues is that labs often come at a time when the individual is already showing compromise. It would behoove us to consider doing some lab work when we are younger and in our prime to get a baseline of healthy lab values for the individual.

In addition to the hormones and some common vitamins, Healthy Aging medicine incorporates some more unique labs in its assessment of health. Some examples:

MTHFR (methyltetrahydrofolate reductase enzyme) – this important enzyme is important for the reduction of folic acid to a methylated form for its use in the body. There are two primary SNPs (single nuclear polymorphisms) that are noted in genetic testing that gives us information regarding possible deficiencies in function. These variants have been linked to such varied health matters from heart disease to attention deficit disorder.

Telomere length – Telomeres, as discussed in a previous article in Northgate Living, is an important component of aging in cells.

Measuring Length may give us an insight into how one is aging.

ApoE – this important gene is short for apoprotein E, and its variants are associated with fat metabolism and possible risk for Alzheimer’s.

Please schedule a complimentary consultation with Medical Institute of Healthy Aging (formerly Previ Medical Group) to see how the approach to standard and novel labs can help one improve their health.

These are some of the most important decisions that you make in your lifetime.

Don’t make them alone.

Consider working with a fiduciary.

David N. Nissim Managing Partner Portfolio Manager 1299 Newell Hill Place, Suite 303 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 DavidNissim@NissimGavidia.com (925) 239-0117 www.NissimGavidia.com

We have an obligation to act in your best interest.

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Frank A. Gavidia, CFP ® Managing Partner Chief Compliance Officer 1299 Newell Hill Place, Suite 303 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 FrankGavidia@NissimGavidia.com (925) 239-0116 www.NissimGavidia.com OCTOBER 2018

Recipe

Pumpkin Cranberry Bread

By Shelly Malter, Resident since 1997 • • • • • • • • • • • •

2 eggs, beaten 2 C Sugar 1/4 C oil 1 1/4 C canned pumpkin 2 1/4 C flour 1/2 T cinnamon 1/2 T nutmeg 1 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 C cranberries 1/2 C chocolate chips 1/2 C chopped walnuts

Combine eggs, sugar, oil, & pumpkin. Mix well.

In separate bowl, combine flour, spices, soda, & salt.

Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients bowl. Mix to moisten all.

Gently stir in cranberries, chocolate chips, and walnuts.

Grease and flour loaf pans or muffin tins.

Mini-muffin tins 15 minutes; 2 loaf pans 1 hour.

Bake in 350 degree oven.

This is a recipe I’ve had since I was 20 years old. It is a delicious bread that you will find children and others will enjoy.

Bringing Your Remodeling Vision To Reality www.bluediamondbuildersinc.com jordan@bluediamondbuildersinc.com janae@bluediamondbuildersinc.com

Kitchen Remodels Bathroom Remodels Whole Home Remodels Custom Home Builds In-law suite/Additions We take on every aspect of the project as if it was our own.

We are transparent with our clients and walk them through every step of the way.

Testimonial from a Resident

"We had a great experience with Jordan and his crew. I'm a stickler for communication. I always was able to contact Jordan by text or phone. He returned calls promptly which really helped our relationship.

He also has a project manager who follows up on the progress. I remodeled a bathroom, two fireplaces, flooring, and new doors. The subs he uses are top quality and they were all polite and cleaned up daily. I have referred many friends and would not hesitate to use them again for another project."

BT.W Danville, Ca NORTHGATE LIVING 11

You Can Beat High Natural Gas Prices

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WE PAID through the nose for gasoline last summer.

And now this: The Walnut Creek area is warned to “Brace for a Surge in Natural Gas Prices.” So, how much is this surge supposed to be?

Oh, just a little 20% increase on top of your already high heating bill!

If you paid $180 or so per month last winter, count on spending $220 a month this year.

Increases appear unavoidable. And once they hit, there won’t be any “barequipment. It’s supply and demand like always.

Except for one thing…

Your entire “Fighting Back” package includes: » The “old price”…

on a brand new Bryant heating and cooling system.

» Guaranteed 20% energy

savings.

If your new Bryant system doesn’t reduce energy consumption by 20% over your old central I’ll write you a check for

» 10-year parts and labor

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» At least a $680 Trade-In…

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www.stewartair.net 12

OCTOBER 2018

Expert Contributor

Trouble Qualifying for a Home Loan?

Our Specialty Loan Programs May Help

By Erik Oberbruner, Diversified Capital Funding, NMLS 1850. Resident since 1977

D

o you want to buy a home but are afraid you might not qualify for a loan? Or have you tried to get a home loan and were denied due to a recent credit event, or because you are self-employed, or have not yet sold your existing home? Then get ready to make this the year you purchase a home with the Expanded Access Program! This program opens the door to borrowers who need access to financing but don’t fit the standard guidelines.

Specialty Loan Program: Expanded Access may help borrowers who: • Are self-employed, earn seasonal income or have tax returns that might not reflect their true ability to handle a mortgage loan • Have a recent credit event such as a

•

•

mortgage late, short sale/foreclosure, or a bankruptcy (with 12 months seasoning) Have a departing residence that has not yet sold and need to exclude the departing residence payment to qualify for a new home purchase Have a higher debt-to-income ratio up to 50% (up to 55% on an exception basis)

Expanded Access Program Qualifications: Let’s take a look at some of the borrower qualifications: • Loan amounts available from $100K-$2.5M • 10% down payment • Minimum FICO credit score of 620 • Recent credit events allowed including mortgage late payments, settled housing events, and 12 month seasoned

• •

bankruptcies Variety of loan terms available Owner-occupied, 2nd homes, and investment properties allowed

If you have had difficulty obtaining mortgage financing for a home, 2nd home, or investment property this program may be the answer.

We are dedicated to helping more people every year achieve home ownership and our Expanded Access specialty loan program is another way to get you to your goal! Don’t assume that you can’t qualify to purchase a new home - contact me today to show you how I can help!

For more information, contact Erik Oberbruner Sr. Mortgage Consultant, Diversified Capital Funding, Cell (925) 586-5474 NMLS#433990/1850

20% OFF One Item

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NORTHGATE LIVING 13

Nonprofit Spotlight

ARF Pet Hug Pack –

“People Rescuing Animals… Animals Rescuing People”

By Jill Wilk, Resident since 1997; Brenda de la Ossa, Resident since 1982; and Joann Biondi, Walnut Creek resident since 1979

W

hen you hear the mission statement “People Rescuing Animals. . . Animals Rescuing People,” it brings to mind stories that most pet owners cherish about their own beloved companions. We think of Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF). We are part of ARF’s Pet Hug Pack. We met when we started volunteering with ARF’s Pet Hug Pack, a therapy animal program started in 2002. Pet Hug Pack has over 200 teams of qualified pets (both dogs and cats) and their volunteer handlers, who visit over 50 facilities with thousands of children, seniors, veterans, and others in need of some unconditional love. It is one of many programs ARF offers such as Pets and Vets, Camp ARF, dog training, spay and neuter services, All Ears Reading (a free program for elementary school students that pairs young readers with a Pet Hug Pack therapy cat or dog to help improve reading skills and confidence), and FoodShare, which provides pet food to qualifying low-income pet guardians in Contra Costa County.

Our Pet Hug Pack group met almost 10 years ago, while paired to visit John Muir Hospital every other Sunday. Brenda, who at the time brought her first therapy dog, Mable; Joann, who brought her first therapy cat, Cara Mia; and Jill, who brought her cockapoo, Simba. Together we visited the halls of the rehabilitation floor, the orthopedic floor, the medical/surgical floor, pediatric floor, and then any special requests made by patient’s families who saw us in the various waiting areas. From the beginning, we all knew the impact our visits had on patients and their families. We also saw the tremendous impact our visits had on doctors and staff members. Their hard work and dedication to their jobs can be overwhelming at times, and just a simple pet of Cara Mia the cat or Simba the dog could change their outlook.

Brenda de la Ossa, a Northgate resident, started with ARF in 1992 and was appointed to its Board of Directors in 1999. She served for 14 years on the board, and even served as the interim Executive Director while they were recruiting a new one. Brenda now brings LuLu, a pug mix, to John Muir with our Pet Hug Pack. This is only one of Brenda’s Pet Hug Pack commitments.

She also visits many schools and participates in their reading programs, pet education for children, and visits with special needs children and adults. Brenda and LuLu first met when she was making her last Meals on Wheels delivery in Pittsburg.

When she bent down to pet this young dog, its owner said “do you want her? I have to get rid of her.” Of course Lulu was irresistible, and Brenda could not refuse. One of Brenda’s most memorable moments with the Pet Hug Pack came when she was visiting a high school with autistic students. One student was upset because he had lost his cat. Without even being asked, LuLu jumped on

his lap and started kissing him and immediately made him feel better.

Joann Biondi, a Walnut Creek resident, began with ARF in 2006, one year before retiring from her job of 40 years in Special Education in two different pubic school districts.

While touring ARF with a colleague, who was also an ARF volunteer, she met up with who would soon be Cara Gianna, LuLu and Simba bring joy Mia, a tortoise-shell kitty up during the holidays at John Muir Hospital for adoption the next day. As Joann recounts, “She looked into my eyes and stole my heart. She came into my life to give me purpose and meaning in my retirement, combining pets and utilizing my professional experience working with the disabled. I began taking Cara Mia to work, so she would become socialized and comfortable around people, noises and activity. When staff would come in to speak with me, their first priority was to hold Cara Mia. I was amazed watching her change people’s attitude, body language and demeanor. They would calm down and smile, no matter how serious or important their concern may have been.”

That experience of sitting patiently in her multiple level cage and relating to people daily made her the incredible and unique therapy cat she is today. She can sit so still, people give a double take and think she is a stuffed animal! You may think that only dogs can be used as a therapy pet. Not true! Joann has trained Cara Mia as a therapy cat, along with two of her other cats – Figaro, a male tuxedo black and white, and Gianna, a calico. Of ARF’s 200 PHP members, Joann’s three therapy cats are among the 5 Pet Hug Pack cat members and the rest are dogs! Cats are a rare and unique addition to the group. Over the last nine years these cats have brought much joy while visiting patients, ARF Summer Camps, making special appearances at events such as Stars to the Rescue, Wine and Whiskers, and programs for preschool special needs children and elementary school classroom instruction for Human Education.

Joann was recently honored by ARF as the Community Leader Volunteer in 2016 for her expansive volunteer career benefiting this organization. Cara Mia travels in a pet stroller, or she is carried in a baby pouch and can walk on a harness and leash. She is quite the Fashionista. Her special clothes closet is full of girlie outfits, costumes for various holidays and matching hats or hats

14

OCTOBER 2018

of various animals, which she sports willingly. She has now influenced Lulu and Simba to dress up as well. You can also find her on You Tube in a commercial spot for TV Station KOFY, various videos about ARF’s PHP Program and ARF You Make My Dreams Come True toward the end of the video dressed in a full clown outfit and many photos of her in ARF publications.

and ARF. Over the years, Jill and Simba have visited many venues including schools, participating in reading and education programs, special events such as Wine and Whiskers, and Stars to the Rescue, and community education and adoption events. One of the most touching moments came when Simba was asked to visit a girl in the ICU Step Down Unit at John Muir. (Simba is “on call” with John Muir for the Pet Hug Pack). They visited a young patient who suffered from a severe neuromuscular disease which left her unable to communicate through speech. Additionally, she had some brain trauma and her intellectual abilities were very limited. Soon after Simba and Jill entered her room, the girl’s face instantly lit up. Simba jumped on the bed, and she moved closer and began petting her. She smiled broadly and made noises of joy. Shortly after this, her mother left the room, overcome with emotion. At the end of the visit, Jill asked the nurse if the mother was okay. The nurse simply stated “this is the first time in 2 months that she’s seen her daughter smile.”

24 24 HOUR PROOF HOUR PROOF 24 HOUR PROOF

Joann with Cara Mia

Jill Wilk, a Northgate DATE Joann, and Jill have been bonded together with their resident, has been volunteering for ARF since 2006 and started Brenda, DATE as a foster to Leo the cat. Of course, she was unable to give him commonPLEASE love of both animalsPROMPTLY and helping people. ARF combines REPLY PLEASE REPLY up and eventually him.· Alamo Then ·Simba, these two passions in their Pet Hug Pack PROMPTLY program.

San Ramon · Danvilleadopted · Blackhawk Diablo her cockapoo came DATE THIS AD WILL RUN AS IS UNLESS WE San Ramon · Danville· Dublin Blackhawk · Alamo · Diablo Walnut · Lafayette · Pleasanton · Livermore intoCreek her life.

Jill and her family· rescued Simba when she was just THIS AD WILL RUN AS IS UNLESS WE Walnut Creek · Lafayette Pleasanton Vacaville · Fairfield · Travis AFB · Suisun· City · Dixon· ·Dublin Winters· Livermore If you would like more information on joining the Pet Hug Pack, CHANGES PRIOR TO PRESS. PLEASE REPLY PROMPTLY 8 weeks old, when she ·was left in· aSuisun box with sister outsideRECEIVE Vacaville · Fairfield Travis AFB City · her Dixon · Winters RECEIVE CHANGES PRIOR TO PRESS. San Ramon · Danville · Blackhawk · Alamo · Diablo please visit https://www.arflife.org/pages/570/join-the-pet-hugof aWalnut shelter in the Central Valley. ·After going through training THISphone AD WILL RUN AS IS UNLESS WE Creek · Lafayette · Pleasanton Dublin · Livermore email eastbay@yourtownmonthly.com 925.328.0888 pack/ . If your group would925.328.0888 like the Pet Hugfax Pack925.397.3038 to start with Simba, the trainer remarked that Simba had· Winters the temperament Vacaville · Fairfield · Travis AFB · Suisun City · eastbay@yourtownmonthly.com Dixon email phone faxvisiting 925.397.303 RECEIVE CHANGES PRIOR TO PRESS. with their animal teams, contact them at http://arf.convio.net/site/ to be a therapy dog. Jill began the training for Simba to become PageNavigator/contact_ pethug.html. phone 925.328.0888 fax 925.397.3038 a certified therapy dog both email througheastbay@yourtownmonthly.com the American Kennel Club

PROOF World Class Service at 24 an HOUR Affordable Price DATE

San Ramon · Danville · Blackhawk · Alamo · Diablo Walnut Creek · Lafayette · Pleasanton · Dublin · Livermore Vacaville · Fairfield · Travis AFB · Suisun City · Dixon · Winters

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