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Mailed Directly to Northgate Residents and Published Online

JANUARY 2024

Meet the

Harris Family: Photo by Julie Cheshire Photography

At home in Northgate

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JANUARY 2024

Dear Neighbors, Publication Team Publisher: Jo Peek

Content Coordinator: Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991 Designer: Emily Lund Jo Peek

Contributing Photographer: Julie Cheshire

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

Feedback/Ideas/Submissions: Have feedback, ideas, or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 10th of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas, and photos to: Knavolio@bestversionmedia.com. Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2024 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

Happy New Year!! Did you make any resolutions? Have you learned anything during 2023 that you are bringing into 2024? As a new grandparent I know that 2024 will be full of joy. I hope that you also have much to be grateful for as we head into a new year. May each day bring the peace that comes from nature or connecting with a loved one. Here’s to a year of growth, healing, and happiness for all of us! In this issue you will meet the Harris family. Their story is a fun one of waiting until the stars properly aligned for the college friends to finally become a couple, followed by four children, and finding Northgate as the place they wanted to call home. You will also find informational articles from our experts and some fun resident articles from your own neighbors. Each month we are dedicated to bringing you the stories and events that you want to read about. If you have something to share, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re also always looking for our next great cover - so if you know of a person or family that you think would be great, please nominate them! You can reach me at knavolio@bestversionmedia.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @NorthgateLivingCA. Send us your photos and events! Warm regards,

Kara Navolio Northgate Living CA Content Coordinator Resident Since 1991 If you have a story, event or news to share please email me at knavolio@bestversionmedia. com. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook: NorthgateLivingCA.

Rita Dhillon Team

#1 Northgate & Walnut Creek Realtor * TOTAL SALES VOLU ME F ROM 20 01-2021

Rita Dhillon

925.570.1010 rita.dhillon@compass.com DRE 01109990

Tim Dhillon

925.570.0418 tim.dhillon@compass.com DRE 01521381

Khush Kermanizadeh 925.577.3422 khush@compass.com DRE 01480990

Compass is a licensed real estate broker in California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 3

Expert Contributors Advertising - Print & Digital

Over the last 9 years, Jo Peek has been helping local businesses, nonprofits, charities and schools connect with our community on a deeper level. She works with each client individually to customize a marketing campaign to suit their needs, timeline and budget.

Dentist

Dr. Michael Tobian graduated from the UCLA School of Dentistry. With over 30 years of experience, he has practiced dentistry for patients of all ages. He thoroughly enjoys the art and science of Dentistry. Dr. Maurissa Kiefer got her DDS degree from University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, in San Francisco, CA. Dr. Kiefer strives to provide her patients with comfortable, high quality care.

Design, Build & Remodeling

Gordon Reese, a seasoned Design Build professional with over 39 years of experience, is the founder of Gordon Reese Design Build. With an unwavering passion for elevating living spaces, Gordon offers homeowners a unique opportunity to transform their homes into a luxurious oasis. His team specializes in Additions, ADUs, Whole House, Kitchens, and Bathroom remodels. They are committed to delivering stressfree remodeling experiences and producing beautiful results that exceed expectations. If you are ready to turn your dream home into a reality, contact Gordon Reese Design Build today!

Hardscape Restoration

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

Northgate Living CA Jo Peek 925-272-8246 NorthgateLivingCA@gmail.com www.NorthgateLivingCA.com Tobian Kiefer Dentistry Michael S Tobian, DDS & Maurissa Kiefer DDS 925-407-1155 mydentist@drtobian.com www.drtobian.com

Gordon Reese Gordon Reese Design Build 925-477-4953 Marketing@GordonReese.com GordonReese.com Concrete Paver Restorations Drew Bogetti 408-828-6903 www.cprpaver.com drew@cprpaver.com

JANUARY 2024

Expert Contributors 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.

Religious Education

For over 40 years, Contra Costa Christian Schools has maintained its original mission to Prepare the Next Generation with Christian values and a quality academic foundation. While the instructional strategies and curriculum have evolved, the core mission of serving families in the East Bay has remained the same. CCCS provides a high quality 21st century education within a Christian context that equips students for success, whatever they choose to pursue.

Rita Dhillon Compass Real Estate (925) 570-1010 Rita.Dhillon@compass.com www.RitaDhillonTeam.com Contra Costa Christian Schools 925-934-4964 afullmore@cccs.org www.contracostachristianschools.org

Sports Medicine

Precision Sports Medicine & Chiropractic Dr. Christopher Matock, DC CCSP (925) 322-8074 info@precisionsportsmedicine.com www.precisionsportsmedicine.com

Storage Expert

Shadelands Self Storage 925-935-6200 info@shadelandsstorage.com https://shadelandsstorage.com/

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

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.

Find us online NorthgateLivingCA www.NorthgateLivingCA.com

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 5

Resident Feature 100+ hours a week, while Nick stayed at Cal, working on a master’s degree in education and playing his final year of college football. He set the NCAA record for career punting yardage and earned Consensus All-American honors, but the timing still wasn’t right for them as a couple. After his master’s degree, Nick was drafted into the NFL by the Denver Broncos, so their relationship still had to wait. Nick was later waived by the Broncos and signed with the Cincinnati Bengals, where he played for three seasons. That was 2001. “When 9/11 happened, the world changed,” says Nick. “The aftermath of the terror attacks saw a collapse of the financial sector, and Heather lost her banking job.” But losing her job expedited what was already a foregone conclusion, a marriage proposal and Heather being able to move to Cincinnati to be close to Nick. They married in 2003.

Students at UC Berkeley

Meet the

Harris Family: At home in Northgate By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991 Photos provided by The Harris family

ome things are just meant to be. Even when you meet the partner you’re destined for at a young age, and even though careers may try to get in the way, the stars finally aligned for Nick and Heather Harris to be together in 2001.

They met as students at UC Berkeley in 1998; it was a sorority party in San Francisco. He was the punter for the Cal Bears Football team, earning a Liberal Arts degree, and she was a cheerleader majoring in finance. They danced the night away as they watched the fog roll into the bay. The timing wasn’t right for a long-term relationship, but two years later, after graduation, they bumped into each other again and began to cement their connection. But Heather was soon off to New York to train for her new job in investment banking. After her training, she moved back to San Francisco, working

Nick went on to play for the Detroit Lions, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Carolina Panthers, a career spanning 12 years. After football, he earned a second master’s degree in Christian Theology. They purchased a home in the Northgate neighborhood in 2005 to be close to Heather’s parents after his football career came to an end; he began teaching at Berean Christian High School in 2015. In 2019, he became the school’s principal. During those years, from 2003 to 2009, Heather and Nick added four children to their family. Drew is the oldest and a sophomore studying Industrial Technology at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. He loves his new “home,” taking advantage of hiking and biking in the coastal mountains. Halle is 16 and attends Berean Christian High School. She loves lyrical dance and hanging out with her friends. Twins Brooke and Kate are 13. Brooke loves to bake, decorate, dance, and care for the family’s two dogs, Benny and Jett (named after Elton John’s song and adopted from ARF). Kate is a ballerina who performed the role of Clara in The Nutcracker this past holiday season. Both are home-schooled by Heather, which is now Heather’s full-time job. Heather also finds time to teach ballet a few nights per week while Nick helps coach the Berean Football team in his free time. While living in the Detroit area, Nick developed a strong friendship with his pastor, who connected him with a mentor, Jeff VanBiesbrouck, a fellow professional athlete. While winding down from football, Jeff helped Nick transition from

JANUARY 2024

the world of sports to the business world. Jeff, a former professional hockey player, encouraged Nick to read HalfTime, a book by Bob Buford. Nick says, “The book was about how to re-purpose a successful initial career into a second career full of purpose and meaning.” This is what eventually led him to study Christian Theology and pursue meaningful work in Christian Education. “Our mission at Berean is so much more than academics,” adds Nick, “We are exceedingly good at academics with our college preparatory curriculum, but we’re also concerned with the kind of human beings we’re producing.” He loves his work leading these young adults. The Harrises love the Northgate area “because it’s a place where you can get away from it all, even though the hustle and bustle is close by.” They love getting out to the open space and visiting San Luis Obispo to see Drew, spend time at the beach, and have dinner at their favorite sushi place in Morro Bay. “Trips to Hawaii have been fun too,” adds Nick, “but our favorite family tradition is Sunday night dinners together.” After years of waiting to be together and living in many different states, their Sunday dinners in Northgate are right where they want to be.

Heather and Nick get engaged

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.

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 7

Pet Corner

ARF Adoption Stars

Marigold

Sumatran

Marigold is a mellow soul. Her friendly nature makes her a joy to be around, whether you are enjoying a leisurely stroll in the park or cuddled up at home. Marigold enjoys her walks and is eager to hop in the car for a road trip, but does not mind spending a relaxing night in with the family. Marigold looks forward to sharing her love with a forever family who will appreciate her unique and gentle spirit. Marigold has a positive history with other dogs and currently weighs 73 pounds.

Sumatran is a unique girl looking for a patient and loving forever home. With the right environment, a caring family, and plenty of tasty treats she’ll to blossom into a wonderful companion. She would thrive in a home where she can gradually build trust and come out of her shell. Despite her shyness, she’s super curious, always wanting to investigate every fun thing a room has to offer! Sumatran has a positive history with other cats and may enjoy having a kitty friend to keep her company.

ARF adoption fees:

By Cole Kuiper, ARF

dopt a new best friend at ARF in Walnut Creek! View available dogs and cats online or visit ARF in-person: Tuesday-Sunday, 12-6 pm, with early-bird sign-in available on weekdays beginning at 9 am. Our team is excited to guide you in choosing a pet, share information about their history and behavior, and provide helpful resources. Here are a couple of our adorable animals looking for love:

• • • • • •

$150 $50 for an adult dog $375 $50 for a puppy (<6 months) $75 $50 for a special-needs dog $200 $50 for a special-needs puppy (<6 months) $75 $50 for a senior dog (7+ years)

Adoption fees waived for US military Veterans

• • • • • • •

$100 $50 for an adult cat $175 $50 for a kitten (<6 months) $150 $50 for two adult cats, $300 for two kittens $50 for a special-needs cat $100 $50 for a special-needs kitten (<6 months) $50 for a senior cat (7+ years) Adoption fees waived for US military Veterans

JANUARY 2024

Real Estate

Real Estate is proudly sponsored by The Rita Dhillon Team

Real Estate Listings in Northgate Active Listings Address

List Price

SQFT

DOM

771 Woodwind Pl 102 Castle Rock Ln 216 Via Monte 434 Peppertree Rd 419 Las Lomas Way 3148 Lippizaner Ln

$2,975,000 $2,450,000 $1,550,000 $1,499,000 $1,199,950 $1,040,000

Pending Listings Address List Price

5 5 5 5 2 3

4 4.5 3 3.5 1.5 2

4,000 3,211 2,252 2,431 1,202 1,748

51 39 15 15 74 29

SQFT

225 Clyde Dr 2370 English Ct 3446 Bayberry Dr

Sold Listings Address Sold Price

3 5 5

2.5 3.5 2.5

2,926 2,835 2,607

18 7 29

SQFT

DOM

3734 Shadowbrook Ct 3211 Kirby Ln 10 Fifi Ct 101 Arbolado Dr

5 4 4 5

3.5 2 2.5 2.5

3,706 2,332 2,330 2,283

14 9 25 6

$2,000,000 $1,875,000 $1,725,000

$2,825,000 $1,800,000 $1,500,000 $1,415,000

12/11/2023

DOM

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

Rita Dhillon Team

#1 Northgate & Walnut Creek Realtor * TOTAL SALES VOLU ME F ROM 20 01-2021

Rita Dhillon

925.570.1010 rita.dhillon@compass.com DRE 01109990

Tim Dhillon

925.570.0418 tim.dhillon@compass.com DRE 01521381

Khush Kermanizadeh 925.577.3422 khush@compass.com DRE 01480990

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 9

January CALENDAR OF EVENTS Every Monday through Jan. 22 Yoga in the Park

Any day Public Art Self-Guided Audio Tour

@Arbolado Park Behavioral Fitness Presents- Another Living Better through Community offering- Yoga is for all of us. A beautiful way to start the week- come join our peaceful, mindful yoga in Arbolado Park (next to upper parking lot) on Monday mornings at 9 AM. This generous gift is sponsored by our local non profit: Providing Easier Access to Care Everywhere: PEACE (501 3c). 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 beautiful Arbolado Park. Text us for updates on meeting locations for rainy mornings. Space may be limited during rainy- indoor days. Monday at 9AM (12/4, 12/11, 12/18, 1/8, 1/15, 1/22). For more information and rainy day location updates text or call (925) 818-8062. Cost: FREE Time: 9-10am

Enjoy a self-guided audio tour of Public Art in Walnut Creek, featuring 33 stops about the artwork in the downtown area. Look for the pink and orange Public Art signs around town, located by artworks. Dial the number on the signs to hear about that artwork. More information: https://www.bedfordgallery. org/public-art/public-art-tours Cost: free

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 Time: 9am-1pm

Through Jan. 16 Walnut Creek on Ice @Civic Park Enjoy ice skating in downtown Walnut Creek. Tickets will be available at walnutcreekdowntown. com; private cabana rentals; birthday parties.

Sat., Jan. 20 Northgate Boosters Crab Feed @Centre Concord This will be an event to remember! Enjoy a fabulous crab and pasta dinner, fine wine, fabulous auction items, live music, dancing and great adult company! Supports Northgate athletic teams and the Sports Medicine program. Tickets at https://www.northgatebroncos.org/boosters. Time: 6-11pm

Jan. 13 - Mar. 31 California Clay exhibit @Bedford Gallery, Lesher Center for the Arts Dedicated to all things fired, California Clay presents a survey of California artists working in clay. In response to the recent ceramics renaissance in the contemporary art world, California Clay features an intriguing mix of functional and aesthetic works that highlight the versatility of the medium, and celebrate ceramics as both functional and fine art, showcasing the talent and creativity of contemporary ceramicists. Cost: Pay what you can Time: Gallery open from Wed. – Sun., 12-5pm, excluding holidays

JANUARY 2024

The Path to Stardom: How to Be on the Cover of THIS Magazine! D

on’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.

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!

It Starts With You

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.

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

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

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!

SHARE YOUR STORY Share your child’s first goal, their first kick, their first smile playing the sport they love!

FREE & EASY ⋅ NO ACCOUNT NEEDED

BVMSPORTS.COM SUBMIT

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 11

Expert Contributor

Cleared for Takeoff By Chris J. Held, CFP®, CRPS®, Element Wealth Management

Planning To Retire Within Five Years or so? Include These Three Exercises in Your Flight Plan

You’re first step is to get the most comprehensive, clear and accurate picture of your annual expenses that you can. For reference, collect your credit card statements and checking/savings account statements from the past 12 months (most banks and credit card companies let you download a yearly review of all your transactions organized into charts and graphs so you can get a clear look at your total annual spending). You may already have a good handle on your biggest expenses each month, like housing, transportation, food, cable and cell phone. You’ll want to make sure to include other fixed costs, such as insurance (all coverages), haircuts or salon visits, gym memberships, streaming services, wellness exams and dental cleanings. Perhaps the most important part of this step is to review all of your one-off and variable purchases to better understand how they can impact your overall yearly spend. Reviewing these transactions can show you how much you really spent on coffee, home improvement projects, online purchases, manicures and pedicures, dining out, spur-of-the-moment weekend getaways and other items. Really digging into your entire year-in-review can also help you notice patterns in your spending, like when there are increases around vacations, holidays, birthdays and other annual events.

Inspect Your Retirement Income Sources

Now that you know what you’ll need, it’s time to inspect any sources of income you can count on each month in retirement. Some examples include: •

• • • •

Social Security. This Social Security Quick Calculator (https://www.ssa.gov/OACT/quickcalc/) lets you estimate your monthly benefit checks. Try entering various retirement dates to see how waiting or claiming earlier will affect your checks. Income from rental properties An annuity A work pension Withdrawals from retirement savings (a very general rule of thumb is to budget a 4% annual withdrawal rate from retirement accounts)

Avoid Turbulence With Healthcare Costs

While Medicare is a valuable benefit for those age 65 and older, it isn’t free and it doesn’t cover everything. Health-care costs include deductibles, premiums and things Medicare doesn’t cover, such as prescription drugs, vision and dental care, hearing aids, home care and nursing homes. Therefore, before you retire: • • • •

Start saving money toward covering these potential costs Enroll in a health savings account to help reduce taxes (if available) Look into long-term-care insurance; it may be worthwhile if you are eligible and young enough to qualify for a reasonable rate Do your research before signing up for Medicare. Will you choose Original Medicare and supplemental (“Medigap”) insurance? Or will you choose Medicare Advantage, a popular type of private insurance coverage? Sign up now for Medicare’s newsletter to get updates and stay informed regarding all your options (https://tinyurl.com/3h3mdby4).

Chris J. Held is a Registered Representative with and securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC. Office:

925.433.9533 x100

Email:

chris.held@elementwm.com

Website:

www.elementwm.com

JANUARY 2024

Food, Wine & Entertaining

Food trends for 2024

By Lisa Crossett, Resident since 2001

s we embark on a new year, the world of food and beverages is set to tantalize our taste buds with a delightful array of trends that promise to make every meal an adventure. Here’s a sneak peek into what 2024 has in store for our palates. Top Flavors and Foods: According to influential social media sites and industry leaders, the top foods and flavors set to explode in popularity include violet/floral, mustard seeds, spicy ranch, everything Caesar, spam, shawarma, shaved ice, Cresto de gallo pasta, Mexican beers, and sweetened condensed milk. Tropical Indulgence: The tropics come alive on your plate with exotic flavors and vibrant colors. Picture yourself sipping on refreshing pineapple mocktails while savoring the sweetness of crushed pineapple upsidedown cake. Dive into the tropical vibes with Hawaiian sheet pan chicken. Melty Mashups: Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with melty mashups. Burgers meet quesadillas, carbonara merges with ramen, and tacos take on the essence of a cheeseburger. If that’s not enough, imagine the gooey goodness of a pizza pot pie that combines two beloved classics into one delightful dish. Spritzes on the Rise: The dining scene is bubbling with the effervescence of spritz cocktails. Whether it’s the classic Aperol Spritz or the refreshing Hugo Spritz, these bubbly concoctions are making a splash on menus everywhere, offering a light and enjoyable adult libation experience. Mezcal and Sotol Take the Lead: Say farewell to traditional tequila as Mezcal and Sotol step into the spotlight. Mezcal’s smoky complexity and Sotol’s earthy tones bring a new dimension to cocktails. Rise of Non-Alcoholic Options: The trend towards mocktails, non-alcoholic spirits, beer, and wine continues to soar. More people are seeking refreshing drink alternatives, prompting restaurants and small producers to craft a plethora of delicious options that cater to the sober curious. Coffee Cocktails and Unique Martinis:

Coffee lovers rejoice as coffee cocktails take center stage. Explore unique martinis like the Caprese, featuring tomato-infused vodka and basil, offering a delightful blend of savory and caffeinated indulgence. Board Craze: Grazing and charcuterie boards, whether for breakfast, dessert, or themed occasions like taco bars, are here to stay. Iceberg Lettuce Resurgence: Iceberg lettuce makes a crunchy comeback, reclaiming its place in salads. Dressed with creamy blue cheese and crispy bacon, the classic combination proves that sometimes, old favorites are the best or let your creativity run wild. Plant-Based Reign: Whole Foods predicts that plant-based options will reign supreme, with a focus on meatless alternatives. Mushrooms, walnuts, tempeh, and legumes are stepping up to replace traditional meat in various dishes. Buckwheat Takes the Spotlight: The superfood of 2024 is buckwheat, making its way into soba noodles, plant-based milk alternatives, and granola. Packed with protein, carbs, and fiber, buckwheat is set to become a staple in healthconscious diets. Spicy Innovations: Get ready for a spice revolution with specialty pepper varieties like Scorpion, Guajillo, and Hungarian Goathorn appearing in stores. Explore new sauces, chili oils, and pepper-infused drinks to add a kick to your culinary creations.

methods. Picture caviar as a condiment for potato chips, adding a touch of luxury to everyday snacking. In the culinary world of 2024, diversity is the spice of life. From little luxuries to plant-based innovations, this year promises to be a feast for the senses. Embrace the trends, savor the flavors, and let your taste buds embark on a journey of gastronomic delight. Cheers to a year filled with culinary adventures!

Lisa has been a Northgate resident since 2001. Professionally, she is the President & Founder of Crossett Search & Advisory Group. (www. crossettsearchgroup.com) She is the President of California Recruiters and a board member for 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 cook great food. www.authenticsuburbangourmet.blogspot.com authenticsuburbangourmet@gmail.com Instagram: @authenticsuburbangourmet

Individual Sized Desserts: Indulge in “little luxuries” with individual-sized desserts. From macarons to mini cakes and brown butter lattes, these delightful treats bring joy without breaking the budget. Spirit Paired Dinners: Resurgence in spirit paired dinners is expected, offering unique experiences beyond traditional wine dinners. Chefs are exploring innovative pairings with spirits and beer, creating memorable dining adventures. Caviar’s Comeback with a Twist: Caviar takes a low-brow makeover, making a triumphant return to menus. The focus is not just on the delicacy itself but on inventive serving

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 13

Charity Spotlight

“Pets and Vets” Foster Families

Help Veterans and Dogs Alike Submitted by Cole Kuiper

re you looking for a fun and unique way to give back to military Veterans? Consider fostering a future psychiatric service dog for the Animal Rescue Foundation’s (ARF) Pets and Vets program! This groundbreaking initiative pairs specially-selected shelter dogs with Veterans diagnosed with PTSD, anxiety, agoraphobia, traumatic brain injuries, and other service-related trauma. Praised for its unique approach to service dog training, Pets and Vets has been featured by Inside Edition, Fox News, MSNBC, BuzzFeed, People.com, and more. The team at ARF even advised on the writing of the PAWS Act, which was signed into law in 2021 to establish a nationwide VA pilot program to train service dogs for Veterans diagnosed with PTSD.

But how does fostering tie into all this? The first step one of our qualifying shelter dogs takes towards earning their service dog vest is spending eight weeks in a volunteer foster home. While with their foster, they’ll practice basic training and socialization in the home and attend a weekly, group training class at ARF’s headquarters in Walnut Creek (training class times are flexible for any schedule). At the end of the eight week foster period, the dog is paired with a Veteran who best matches their personality and begins advanced training, side-by-side with their new Veteran handler. After another 4-5 months of service dog training, these incredible dogs are awarded with a hard-earned service dog vest and the ability to accompany their Veteran anywhere: inside stores, on airplanes, in pet-restricted housing – you name it! Unlike many pet foster programs, ARF provides all the supplies that their fosters need, including food, training treats, toys, leashes, medicine, and everything in between. Our team is available seven days a week to deal with any questions that may arise. And at the end of a dog’s psychiatric service dog training, their previous foster family is invited to watch them officially graduate and join them in celebrating all their hard work.

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Veterans who have completed Pets and Vets alongside their psychiatric service dogs hail the program as “lifesaving,” “gamechanging,” and “better than any medicine doctors have prescribed.” Plus, by providing a positive future for a military Veteran in need and a shelter dog in need of a loving home, Pets and Vets is effectively saving two lives at once. With all of that starting with a kind-hearted foster volunteer. So what are you waiting for? Visit arflife.org/servicedogfoster to learn more about how to give back to those who have given so much to their country. The dogs and Veterans of ARF’s Pets and Vets program are waiting to hear from you! And if you know any Veterans who may benefit from this program, please have them visit arflife.org/veterans to see if one of our shelter-to-service dogs is right for them. Together, we’re Saving Both Ends of the Leash®.

JANUARY 2024

Expert Contributor

Small Size = Big Results By Linda Miller, Interim Head of School, Contra Costa Christian Schools

re you looking for a learning community where the class sizes are conducive to enhanced learning and personal growth? If so, allow me to share with you one of several reasons you should tour Contra Costa Christian Schools in Walnut Creek: student teacher ratio in each class! 1.

Our teachers are able to give more individual feedback and support to students.

Each student can get the attention needed for both academic and personal achievement.

Students are encouraged to take part in discussions and motivated to express their opinions more freely.

Research has proven that high school students in smaller classes have comparably higher grades and perform better on university entrance exams.

Students are able to learn at a faster pace in small classes. Their learning is also enhanced by the confidence that students develop as they express ideas and engage in discussion with their peers.

Teachers are given the privilege to focus more on teaching in a small class setting. They have opportunities to assess the class as a whole and individually. The enhancement of learning can take place more effectively in a setting where the teacher and students can be more spontaneous!

Students are able to develop life-long friendships as they connect on a day to day basis with their peers.

These are just a few of the benefits where class sizes are conducive for your child’s academic and personal growth at Contra Costa Christian Schools. Visit our website today and schedule your tour today! Space is limited! www.contracostachristianschools.org

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Expert Contributor

Surprising Secrets Your Remodeler Doesn’t Want You to Know! By Gordon Reese, Gordon Reese Design Build. Resident since 2008

mbarking on a home remodeling journey is an exciting endeavor, but it’s essential to navigate the process armed with knowledge. Behind the scenes of the renovation world, there are a few surprising secrets your remodeler may not be quick to reveal. At Gordon Reese Design Build, transparency is our cornerstone. Join us as we unveil these hidden truths, empowering you to make informed decisions for your dream home.

The Devil is in the Details: Overlooking Precision Can Lead to Aesthetic Disarray

Secret: Not all remodelers stress the critical role of meticulous attention to detail. This can result in potential issues such as misaligned tiles, imprecise measurements, and overlooked design elements. A remodeler rushing through these details may lead to a finished project lacking precision and cohesiveness, leaving the homeowner dissatisfied with the final result.

Budgets are Not Set in Stone: Unanticipated Costs and Communication Breakdowns

Secret: Despite common assumptions, unforeseen circumstances can lead to budget adjustments during a remodel. A failure to communicate this may leave homeowners unprepared for potential cost overruns. Without proper transparency, homeowners may find themselves facing unexpected financial strain and project delays, causing frustration and financial stress.

Communication is Key: Lack of Transparency Leads to Confusion and Dissatisfaction

Secret: Effective communication isn’t universally prioritized among all remodelers. Some may not emphasize the importance of consistent, clear communication, leaving homeowners feeling uninformed. A lack of communication may lead to confusion, misunderstandings about project progress, timelines, and any issues that arise. Poor communication can result in dissatisfaction and a strained homeowner-contractor relationship.

Project Timelines Can be Flexible: Managing Expectations Amid Unforeseen Challenges

Secret: While it’s common for remodelers to present a fixed timeline, unforeseen challenges can indeed impact deadlines. A failure to manage unexpected issues may result in project delays without proactive communication. Homeowners relying on a professional who doesn’t handle unforeseen challenges well may face disruptions, inconvenience, and potential conflicts arising from a lack of realistic expectations and timely updates.

Not All Materials Are Created Equal: Quality Matters for Long-Term Satisfaction

Secret: Some remodelers may not thoroughly educate clients about the significant disparities in materials. Opting for lower-quality materials to cut costs can compromise the long-term durability and aesthetic appeal of the project. Homeowners who overlook the importance of quality materials may find themselves dealing with premature wear and tear, potentially leading to additional expenses for repairs and replacements. The homeowner may end up with a space that doesn’t stand the test of time, requiring more frequent and costly maintenance. At Gordon Reese Design Build, our commitment to excellence is rooted in over 40 years of remodeling experience. Over the years, we have meticulously refined our approach to address the very secrets some remodelers might not want you to know. Our seasoned team has developed a comprehensive system that prioritizes meticulous attention to detail, transparent communication, realistic timelines, and the use of top-quality materials. We understand the potential pitfalls of the remodeling process and strive to ensure that our clients not only enjoy a smooth journey but also revel in the exceptional results that withstand the test of time. With Gordon Reese Design Build, transparency, expertise, and client satisfaction are not just promises; they are the cornerstones of our proven remodeling success. Happy Remodeling!

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JANUARY 2024

Arts & Culture

Enjoy Diablo Ballet's 30th Season

with the romantic Sleeping Beauty’s Wedding and an encore presentation of Gerald Arpino’s festive Confetti By Krissy Gray, Diablo Ballet Director of Operations

iablo Ballet Artistic Director and Co-Founder Lauren Jonas presents Sleeping Beauty’s Wedding February 9 - 10 at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, California.

Amanda Farris and Marco Clemente in Diablo Ballet’s “Sleeping Beauty’s Wedding”. Photo by Rosselyn Ramirez

Sleeping Beauty’s glorious 3rd act celebrates the royal wedding with the Jewel Fairies; Diamond, Gold, Silver, Sapphire, and the Lilac Fairy. Fairytale characters including Puss in Boots, The White Cat, Princess Florine, the Bluebird, Cinderella, Prince Charming, and Little Red Riding Hood dance for Aurora and Prince Desire in the joyous finale. The ballet will eature the entire company, trainees, and upper level students from Diablo Ballet School.

Performance Information: WHAT: Diablo Ballet presents

Dr. Magic is a world premiere created by sought after choreographer Penny Saunders and dedicated to one of Diablo Ballet’s beloved and treasured friends Mari Cyphers, who passed away in 2022. Created for the full company of dancers, this light-hearted, musical, and heartwarming tribute showcases their multifaceted artistry and contemporary technique.

Theatre, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek

Artistic Director Lauren Jonas stated, “We have had the pleasure of performing several restaged works by Penny Saunders and this is her first new work created on the Company, and we are so thrilled.”

Sleeping Beauty’s Wedding

WHEN: February 9 at 7:30 pm and February 10 at 2 pm & 7:30 pm.

WHERE: Lesher Center for the Arts, Hofmann RUNNING TIME: 1 hour, 30 mins with one 15 minute intermission.

TICKETS: $28-$57. Phone: 925-943-7469; Online: www.lesherartscenter.org,

www.diabloballet.org. Early Bird pricing is available through January 10.

The program also features an encore performance of the celebratory Confetti, choreographed by Gerald Arpino, the former Artistic Director of the Joffrey Ballet. This exhilarating ballet premiered in Chicago in February 1970 and Diablo Ballet was invited to perform it in March 2023, in honor of Arpino’s Centennial Celebration on what would have been his 100th birthday. Sleeping Beauty’s Wedding performs February 9 – 10 at the Lesher Center for the Arts, located at 1601 Civic Drive in Walnut Creek. Performances are: Friday, February 9 at 7:30 pm and Saturday, February 10 at 2 pm & 7:30 pm. Single tickets are on sale now ($28 - $57) with senior and youth pricing available. Early Bird pricing is available through January 10. For tickets, call 925-943-SHOW (7469) or visit www.lesherartscenter.org or www.diabloballet.org. About Diablo Ballet Since 1994, Diablo Ballet has been the award-winning professional dance company for Contra Costa County. Aside from presenting acclaimed classical and contemporary ballets, the company is also committed to introducing youth to the arts through its renowned PEEK Outreach Program, which has reached over 75,000 underserved school children in the East Bay since 1995. Additionally, Diablo Ballet has served hundreds of at-risk teenagers incarcerated within the Juvenile Justice system since 2015. In August 2019, Diablo Ballet launched the first ballet school in Contra Costa County run by a professional ballet company, located in Walnut Creek.

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Local Sports

Northgate Fall Athletes Honored Submitted by Ben Ballard, Athletic Director Northgate High School

DAL All-League League MVP Sophia Weise (Girls Water Polo) Poppy Albright (Girls Water Polo) Ben Forer (Boys Water Polo) Audrey Cheng (Girls Golf) First Team Offense Ben Hosler (Football) Sadie Hansell (Flag Football) Sara LaVay (Flag Football) First Team Defense Max Anum (Football) Tony Pucci (Football) Gracia Guerrero (Flag Football)

Tony Pucci and Max Annum - Football 1st team

First Team Siera Pence (Girls Volleyball) Jackie Lee (Girls Volleyball) Rachel Tucker (Girls Water Polo) Chloe Pappas (Girls Water Polo) Geetha Chandrasekaran (Girls Water Polo) Madison Rohrlick (Girls Water Polo) Oliver Knoflick (Boys Water Polo) Jackson Peck (Boys Water Polo) Emma Golovin (Girls Tennis) Zuzana Duris (Girls Tennis) Nicholas Knisley (Boys Cross Country) Armani Starke (Girls Golf) Second Team Offense Jake Berger (Football) Second Team Defense Brooklynne Smith (Flag Football) Sadie Hansell (Flag Football)

Students sign National Letters of Intent.

JANUARY 2024

Second Team Fea’o Saluni (Girls Volleyball) Ainsley Castillo (Girls Water Polo) Sophia Castillo (Girls Water Polo) Ellie Mitchell (Girls Water Polo) Matthew Knisley (Boys Water Polo) Ethan Lee (Boys Water Polo) Angelina Chen (Girls Tennis) Charlotte Perrin (Girls Tennis) Robert Benard (Boys Cross Country) Ella Kopper (Girls Cross Country) Cami Barajas (Girls Golf) Playoffs Boys Cross Country went to State Elena Carcamo (Girls Cross Country) went to State Girls and Boys Water Polo went to NCS Playoffs For National Letter of Intent: Rachel Burkes-University of Puget Sound-Soccer Mason Wendler-UC Santa Barbra-Swimming Ben Forer-Stanford-Water Polo Scott McMillan-BYU-Swimming Lily Struempf-University of North Carolina Chapel Hill-Swimming

Girls Water Polo team makes it to NCS Playoffs. Photo by Carlie Polkinghorn.

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