Photo by Mehak Khullar Photography
July
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Sat., July 13
Northgate Area
Garage Sale
@throughout Northgate
The 33rd annual Northgate Neighborhood Garage Sale, sponsored by The Torrey Real Estate Team, boasts thousands of participants with 100 simultaneous garage sales occurring on the big day. All Northgate residents are invited to participate for free. For more details and to sign up go to www. TorreyTeamRealEstate.com.
Time: 9am-1pm
Thurs., July 18
Master Your Remodel
@Gordon Reese Design Build, 3021 Citrus Circle, Suite 170
Join our exclusive seminar and learn how to avoid: Designing a project that is too expensive to build Making regretful design decisions
Choosing the wrong contractor Charcuterie and adult beverages provided. Visit our website to register: www.GordonReese.com
Cost: Free
Time: 5:45-7:30pm
Sat., July 20
Public Art Walking Tour
@Meet in front of Lesher Center for the Arts
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. More information: https:// www.bedfordgallery.org/ public-art/public-art-tours.
Cost: Adult $5.00. 18 years or younger are free. Please pay in person (cash only).
Includes admission to Bedford Gallery.
Time: 10-11am
Every Monday
Free Yoga Class
@1399 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Suite 26
Behavioral Fitness PresentsAnother Living Better through Community offering- Yoga is for all of us. A beautiful way to start the week- come 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 c3).
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 Thursday
Food Truck Thursdays
@Shadelands
Located in the parking lot on the west side of the Kaiser Permanente building at 370 Lennon Lane. Presented by Taste of the World, Food Truck Thursdays is open to the public. Growing in popularity among diners looking for a fast, convenient, and affordable food options with personalized service, food trucks also offer opportunities to try something different— ethnic and international foods and flavors—and to support local chefs and businesses, while enjoying an outdoor dining experience with family and friends.
Time: 11:30am-2:00pm
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
Throughout July
Cut, Paste, Create - The Art of Collage Exhibit
@Bedford Gallery, Lesher Center for the Arts
Versatile and accessible, collage allows for a creative amalgamation of 2- and 3-D materials, creating a fascinating visual interplay of textures, colors, and forms that explore the juxtaposition of seemingly disparate elements. From analog cut-and-paste to digital layering, this exhibition celebrates the deft use of materials and creative spirit of collage. Time: Wed.-Sun. 12-5pm
Save the Date:
Wed., Aug. 7
First Wednesday Street Fest @Downtown Walnut CreekLocust St. between Bonanza and South Locust Garage
Enjoy a fun street festival full of live music, dancing, tasty bites, wine and beer, Kids Fun Zone, interactive games and other surprises. Join us for the ultimate celebration of community, creativity, and connection.
Cost: Free Time: 5:30-9pm www.walnutcreekdowntown.com
Publication Team
Publisher: Jo Peek
Content Coordinator: Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991
Designer: Emily Lund
Contributing Photographer: Mehak Khullar
Advertising
Contact: Jo Peek
Email: JPeek@bestversionmedia.com
Feedback/Ideas/Submissions:
Have feedback, ideas, or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 10th of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas, and photos to: Knavolio@bestversionmedia.com.
Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2024 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.
Dear Neighbors,
Summer is here. The swim season is in full swing, the days are warmer and longer, and I hope you are enjoying the time to relax, have barbeques, travel, and attend events.
Northgate Living Magazine is your neighborhood magazine, and in this issue you’ll meet your neighbors, Ally Mayo and Teri DeLaMontanya, two women who are building a healthier community right here in Walnut Creek. There are also lots of interesting articles from your neighbors about things going on right here in our neighborhood, including lots of news from Northgate High School and the seniors and athletes who were recognized for their outstanding feats this school year.
We are eager to hear from you with your stories, local sports, or any other topics you’ d like to share. For the latest updates follow us on Instagram or Facebook. Contact 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.
Rita Dhillon Team
Jo Peek
Expert Contributors
Advertising - Print & Digital
Northgate Living CA Jo Peek 925-272-8246
NorthgateLivingCA@gmail.com www.NorthgateLivingCA.com
Auto Service
Diablo Auto Specialists
Bill Adams & Melissa Brunson 925-478-5721
1439 Autocenter Drive Walnut Creek, CA 94597 www.diabloautospecialists.com
Concierge Care Coordination
Camalin “Cam” Jones La Casa Via Transitional Care Center 925-984-1149 camalinj@aspenhealth.com www.casaviahealth.com
Dentist
Tobian Kiefer Dentistry
Michael S Tobian, DDS & Maurissa Kiefer DDS 925-407-1155 mydentist@drtobian.com www.drtobian.com
Design, Build & Remodeling
Gordon Reese
Gordon Reese Design Build 925-477-4953
Marketing@GordonReese.com GordonReese.com
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.
Bill Adams and Melissa Brunson welcome you to your car’s service and repair shop. Diablo Auto Specialists is one of the most respected shops in the East Bay since its inception over 25 years ago by Tim Stussy. Bill and Melissa bring years of experience in the independent service and repair business and own additional stores in Castro Valley and Albany.
For over 20 years, Cam Jones has been serving the local community as a dedicated healthcare professional. She is a top patient advocate going into her tenth year in the skilled nursing and rehabilitation industry. Facilitating over 3000 patient admissions and having conducted over 900 home evaluations in the non-medical home care industry has equipped her with vast knowledge and a wide network. Cam is an expert with navigating individuals from hospital to home with a specialty dealing with healthcare insurances relative to inpatient rehabilitation facility coverage.
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.
With 40 years of dedicated service, Gordon Reese Design Build stands as a trusted leader in the remodeling industry. Specializing in kitchen and bath remodels, whole-house renovations, additions, and ADUs, our award-winning firm helps homeowners realize their vision from design through construction. Our skilled team brings creativity, expertise, and attention to detail to every project, ensuring exceptional results. From concept to completion, we prioritize great ideas, clear communication, and meticulous execution. When you’re ready to transform your home, trust Gordon Reese Design Build to exceed your expectations.
Real Estate
Rita Dhillon
Compass Real Estate (925) 570-1010
Rita.Dhillon@compass.com www.RitaDhillonTeam.com
Religious Education
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/
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.
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.
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.
Photo By Mehak Khullar
Ally and Teri: Meet
Two women aspiring to make Walnut Creek one of the healthiest communities globally
By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991 | Photos provided by Ally Mayo
Dr. Allyson Mayo and Registered Nurse Teri DeLaMontanya, two long time Walnut Creek residents, met while working at John Muir Health. They had a shared passion for innovation in health care, to focus on preventative and proactive education rather than waiting for a crisis.
As an emergency room nurse, Teri was familiar with people in crisis due to mental health issues. Ally was drawn to her career as a Doctor of Behavioral Health by her life’s experiences including the loss of her niece to addiction.
Ally founded Behavioral Fitness LLC in 2019 after receiving her doctorate and working as a Mental Health Counselor for many years. Her vision was clear: to fill a gap in the healthcare system by integrating behavioral health into mainstream wellness.
“The goal is to equip individuals with sustainable techniques for better living, making wellness an everyday practice,” says Ally.
The duo also leads a non-profit called PEACE (Providing Easier Access to Care Everywhere) which provides funding for some of Behavioral Fitness’ programs. They volunteer their time on the board. They often enjoy board meetings quite literally on a board (a paddle board that is, while getting some exercise too).
Ally is a long time Northgate resident, having grown up here and attending Northgate High School. She later returned to raise her two sons here: Matthew (age 22) and Dylan (age 20). Her parents also live just down the street from her. Teri grew up in Pleasant Hill and now lives close by in Walnut Creek. She is a former triathlete, completing the full distance Ironman and has also hiked the John Muir Trail twice (213 miles through the Sierra Nevada). Ally and Teri enjoy e-biking along our vast trails and exploring Mt. Diablo and all the open space. Ally adds, “We love hearing the buzz in the neighborhood of family and friends gathering. We love the beauty of the area. And the youth in our neighborhoods are incredibly kind and helpful. We love that.” In short, Ally and Teri are practicing what they hope to teach others: build a life you don’t need a vacation from.
Behavioral Fitness and PEACE have been offering free yoga to the neighborhood. In 2022 classes started at Arbolado Park; they have since moved to Behavioral Fitness’ new space off of Tampico Dr. that features a “country kitchen meets yoga studio vibe.” They also lead a walking group on Tuesday mornings, a parent connect group, groups for teens, expressive art, and many more (website: www. behavioralfitnesstoday.com). They welcome all to experience these gatherings with the goal of creating
community and supporting good mental health habits. Ally explains why she loves her work, “Imagine if someone gave you a magic wand and asked what you could do to reduce the long-term impact of childhood trauma, to help children and adults believe in themselves, or to stop losing lives to addiction, to ease the symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression, to create a way for people to find their sense of purpose and belonging at all phases of their life – this brings us joy. To help others improve well-being with a lifestyle approach known as Behavioral Fitness is really meaningful. It’s the work we are called to do. We are redefining what it means to be-fit from the inside and bringing community together to experience more inner peace and joy through education, connection, movement, and fun. Do you know a neighbor who has a
one of our upcoming issues!
They welcome hearing from our neighbors. “We would love to hear more from our neighbors (info@behavioralfitnesstoday.com). If you could do anything to improve where we live, what would you like to see in our neighborhood? Behavior Fitness is about building community and forging a path to living better – together. Our hope is that by reading this article it will inspire others to reach out and inquire how they might get involved in helping us redefine what it means to ‘be fit’ from the inside out…Together we can make Walnut Creek a beacon of hope and well-being.”
Joybound Looking for Love
By Cole Kuiper, Joybound
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: Monday-Sunday, 12-6 pm. Our team is excited to guide you in choosing a pet, share information about their history and behavior, and provide helpful resources.
Here are a couple of our adorable animals looking for love:
Zeppelin is a sweet, active companion who would make an excellent adventure buddy. He can be a bit timid but blossoms quickly when given the chance and some treats. He loves to chase toys, frolic in the yard, and follow his nose to explore new places
Bonus: Zeppelin’s adoption fee has been sponsored by a generous admirer!
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
River is full of love and looking for a family that will give him nice chin scratches. He will need regular brushing and some play time with his favorite toys.
Joybound adoption fees:
• $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 Veteranss
Real Estate Listings in Northgate
Active Listings
472
Pending Listings
$2,845,000
$1,998,000
$1,798,000
$1,899,000
$1,595,000
$1,498,000
$1,395,000
Sold Listings
$2,808,000
$2,365,000
$2,200,000
$2,200,000
$2,195,000
$2,180,000
$1,950,000
$1,945,000
Rita Dhillon Team
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
Northgate High School honors outstanding students
Submitted by
Kelly Cooper, Principal
Northgate High School presented awards to outstanding students for the 2023-2024 school year. Congratulations to all the graduating seniors and these award winners.
Summit Awards
Sean Donelan Scholar
Woosap Kim Scholar
Natalie Zelby Leadership
Finn Carlson Service
Emily Chao Overall Summit
Scholarship Recipients: Name of Scholarship:
Sienna Shepodd Jayson Chang
Rebecca Fletcher Dot Schmidt
Roland Anderson Eric Griffin Award
Rebecca Fletcher Eric Griffin Award
Josie Croy Christy Mitchell
Piper Stientjes Sofia Padoan Memorial
Jordan Jewell Rotary Club
Akash Abedin National Merit Finalist
Sophia Carcamo National Merit Finalist
Department Awards
Performing Arts Theater Edward Taylor
Science Woosup Kim
Art
WL-German
Emma Pan
Bennett Krueger
Math Kevin Jung
Social Sciences
Natalie Zebley
WL - Spanish Marjene Stiti
English Mia Montifar
Lucas Dolan
Art Design Path Wren Roberts
Trenton Beyer
Animation
Brooke Johnson
Gavin Chang
Miles Louie
Dylan McLaren
Luke Hill
Emma Neacsu
Performing Arts Department Sienna Shepodd Tatiana Avdienko
Leopold Netzer
Performing Arts Dance Brianna McBride
From Outdated to Outstanding: The Ultimate Guide to a Modern Kitchen Remodel
By Gordon Reese, Gordon Reese Design Build, Resident since 2008
Your kitchen is the heart of your home, where culinary creativity meets family gatherings and daily routines. If your kitchen feels outdated, it might be time to consider a remodel that transforms it from drab to fab. A modern kitchen remodel not only enhances functionality but also adds value and aesthetic appeal to your home. This ultimate guide will walk you through the essential steps and ideas to achieve a stunning modern kitchen that meets all your needs.
Assess Your Current Space
Before diving into a remodel, start by assessing your current kitchen space. Take note of what works and what doesn’t. Identify any pain points, such as lack of storage, outdated appliances, or inefficient layout. Understanding these issues will help you prioritize the changes you need to make. Consider how you use your kitchen daily and envision how you want it to function post-remodel.
Set a Realistic Investment Range
Remodeling a kitchen can be a significant investment, so it’s crucial to set a realistic investment range. Decide how much you are willing to invest and allocate funds to different aspects of the remodel, such as cabinetry, appliances, countertops, and flooring. Remember to include a contingency fund for unexpected expenses. A clear investment range will guide your decisions and help you avoid overspending.
Choose a Design Aesthetic That Suits Your Style
Your kitchen should reflect your personal taste and style. Popular modern design elements include flat-panel cabinets, stainless steel appliances, quartz or granite countertops, and neutral color palettes with bold accents. Open shelving, integrated appliances, and smart storage solutions also enhance the modern aesthetic. Whether you prefer a sleek, minimalist look or a more eclectic mix of modern and traditional elements, choose a design aesthetic that resonates with you and creates a cohesive, contemporary space.
Upgrade Your Appliances
One of the most impactful changes in a kitchen remodel is upgrading your
appliances. Modern appliances are not only energy-efficient but also come with advanced features that make cooking and cleaning more convenient. Consider investing in high-quality, stainless steel appliances such as a refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, and microwave. For a truly modern touch, explore smart appliances that can be controlled via your smartphone or voice commands.
Optimize Your Layout
A functional kitchen layout is essential for efficiency and ease of use. The most popular kitchen layouts include the L-shaped, U-shaped, and galley designs. The layout should facilitate the kitchen work triangle, which connects the sink, stove, and refrigerator in a triangular arrangement for optimal workflow. Consider removing or reconfiguring walls to create an open-plan layout that integrates with your dining or living areas, making the space feel larger and more inviting.
Invest in Quality Cabinetry and Storage Solutions
Modern kitchens emphasize streamlined storage solutions that keep the space clutter-free. Opt for flat-panel or shakerstyle cabinets with sleek hardware. Softclose hinges and drawers add a touch of luxury and functionality. Maximize storage with pull-out shelves, lazy Susans, and built-in organizers. Open shelving can also be a stylish addition, providing easy access to frequently used items and allowing you to display decorative pieces.
Select Durable and Stylish Countertops
Countertops are a focal point in any kitchen and play a significant role in the overall design. Materials like quartz and granite are popular for their durability, low maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. These materials come in various colors and patterns, allowing you to choose a look that complements your design aesthetic. Consider incorporating a waterfall edge countertop for a sleek, seamless appearance.
Enhance Lighting and Ambiance
Proper lighting is crucial in a modern kitchen, both for functionality and ambiance. Layer your lighting with a
mix of task, ambient, and accent lighting. Undercabinet lighting illuminates workspaces, while pendant lights above an island or dining area add style and ambiance. Recessed ceiling lights provide overall illumination without cluttering the ceiling. Consider installing dimmer switches to adjust the lighting according to your needs and mood.
Add Finishing Touches
The finishing touches bring your modern kitchen remodel together. Choose a stylish backsplash, such as subway tiles or glass mosaics, to add visual interest. Incorporate contemporary fixtures like a sleek faucet and modern cabinet handles. Personalize your space with decorative items, such as a bold piece of artwork, stylish bar stools, or a vibrant rug. These details will infuse your kitchen with personality and charm.
Conclusion
Transforming an outdated kitchen into a modern masterpiece requires careful planning, thoughtful design, and quality materials. By following these steps, you can create a kitchen that is not only visually stunning but also highly functional and tailored to your lifestyle. Whether you’re an avid cook, a busy parent, or someone who loves to entertain, a modern kitchen remodel will elevate your home and enhance your everyday life. Gordon Reese Design Build is here to help you realize your remodeling goals, from design through construction, within an established investment range. With our expertise and commitment to excellence, we ensure your kitchen transformation is smooth, successful, and perfectly aligned with your vision.
Kelsey Shaffer Leaves Her Mark on Northgate LAX
By Shannon Polkinghorn, Resident since 2004
For some Northgate seniors, the end of the school year means the end of their high school sports careers. For others though, it’s the final step in their ultimate goal of playing college sports. Kelsey Shaffer is one such senior. But before she heads off to Chapman University in the fall to play girls lacrosse, she made sure she left an indelible mark in the Northgate record books.
Kelsey began playing lacrosse in fourth grade, but it wasn’t just lacrosse that she liked – she loved all sports in general. Her parents encouraged her to try everything, so she dabbled in soccer, basketball, softball, dance and swimming. And though soccer was her first love, it was lacrosse that ultimately stole her heart. Northgate Girls Lacrosse coach Phil Mannoni (2018-22) knew immediately that Kelsey was special and wasted no time telling her parents that.
“I remember telling her family at the start of her freshman year that she would leave Northgate as its most decorated lacrosse player, and she did not disappoint.”
In all, Kelsey leaves Northgate with several records including alltime leading scorer (224 total points), most career goals (152), single season goals (62), and numerous MaxPreps player of the game awards.
Mannoni is quick to point out, however, that it’s not just her lacrosse talent that stands out. Over his 30 year coaching career, he notes that few student athletes have stood out like Kelsey. “Her unwavering commitment, strong work ethic, and relentless pursuit of lacrosse…make her an exceptional individual and a role model for her teammates.” And indeed, when Kelsey looks back on her time at Northgate, it’s her teammates and coaches that stand out the most. Kelsey says that Mannoni in particular made her the player she is today
both by pushing her tirelessly but also by keeping things in perspective and making her laugh at every single practice. And Kelsey is elated to reunite with one of her all-time favorite Northgate teammates Tade Scheid (Class of 2023) where they will play together at Chapman.
Mannoni considers himself lucky to have coached Kelsey. He knows that her future at Chapman is bright given her success at Northgate where she absolutely left her mark.
Kelsey signing her letter of intent to play lacrosse at Chapman University
Kelsey and Coach Mannoni
Kelsey’s family and friends cheering her on
Northgate Athletes honored
Submitted by Ben Ballard, Athletic Director Northgate High School
In May the Northgate High School Athletic Department handed out their yearly awards for stellar athletes. The following students earned awards for the 2023/2024 school year. Congratulations to all!
Gold Block N
In order to be eligible to win a Northgate High School Gold Block N Award, a student-athlete must play six seasons of varsity sports, AND participate in three different varsity sports. The minimum number of points a Gold Block N Award winner will have is 600, all of which must be earned at the varsity level. For example a student-athlete who participate in two years of Varsity Football, two years of Varsity Wrestling, and two years of Varsity Baseball is eligible to win this award
Gold Block N Award Recipients
Roland Anderson
Vincenzo Macaluso
Antonio Pucci
Daniel Lewis
Maddie Rohrlick
Lucas LeSieur
Rebecca Fletcher
Josie Croy
Ellie Mitchell
700 Point Club
In order to become a member of the Northgate High School 700 Club a student-athlete must participate in seven seasons of varsity sports. 700 points must be earned at the varsity level. For example, an athlete who plays four years of Varsity Tennis and three years of Varsity Cross Country will be eligible for the 700 Club.
700 Club
Sophia Weise
Nicholas Knisley
Jacob Berger
Kelsey Shaffer
Sophia Carcamo
Ella Kopper
Eric Griffin Memorial Award
In 1975, Eric Griffin died of complications from Chicken Pox during his freshman year at Northgate High School. He played football, basketball, and track and made a huge impact on the school and community. Since then, the Northgate Athletic Department honors Griffin’s life each year by selecting one male and one female student-athlete as Eric Griffin Award winners.
To be eligible for the prestigious award, a student-athlete must participate in multiple sports, earn above a 3.0 grade point average, and show excellent effort, sportsmanship, and conduct. Additionally, the student-athlete must be a team leader who makes others better through their example and encouragement. This is the most significant athletic award given at Northgate High School.
Eric Griffin Award
Roland Anderson
Rebecca Fletcher
Tuscan-themed dinner party delights dinner guests
By Lisa Crossett, Resident since 2001
Amodern approach to entertaining can be as simple as finding inspiration from the everyday things around us. It could be something you saw on Instagram, a creative idea on Pinterest, or even a hidden gem within your home. Once you discover that spark, you can build upon it to create a memorable event. Recently, I had a dinner party on the calendar, but my creativity gene wasn’t quite functioning—until I rediscovered a set of golden-colored wine glasses. That’s when the idea for an “Under the Tuscan Sun” themed dinner party was born.
With this newfound inspiration, I began planning an Italian-inspired menu featuring cauliflower soup, beet salad, chicken piccata, and panna cotta. The table scape is crucial, as it sets the tone and envelops your guests in the theme. I often start with flower arrangements for the centerpiece, and Trader Joe’s is my go-to for unique, beautiful, and costeffective flowers. For this party, I chose vibrant sunflowers and elegant hydrangeas, complemented by other interesting white and yellow blooms. Faux artichokes, a rustic brown butcher paper runner, and votive candles
in small brass holders added to the Tuscan charm. The dishes were an eclectic mix of white and gold-accented plates, bowls, and flatware, creating an inviting and sophisticated table setting.
To add a personalized touch, I created custom menus using Canva, which helped me find the perfect images and layout. I printed them and pasted them onto cardstock to display at each place setting. These menus served as a lovely token for guests to take home, reminding them of the wonderful evening.
Here are a few helpful hints to ensure your dinner party runs smoothly:
1. Pre-pour your selected wines into the glasses at each place setting to save time.
2. Invest in carafes for water and have a couple ready before your guests arrive.
marketing ON TARGET?
3. Create a detailed to-do list a week before your dinner party and use it as a checklist.
4. Grocery shop the day before the party and prepare as many items as possible ahead of time.
5. Set the table one to two days before the event to reduce last-minute stress.
6. Get yourself ready several hours before your guests arrive so you can greet them relaxed and refreshed.
To finish off the dinner, a delightful dessert is always perfect. I am obsessed with panna cotta for its simplicity and versatility. It can be made in advance and topped with a variety of delightful additions. For this party, I made classic vanilla panna cotta topped with lemon curd and a dollop of raspberry coulis, served in small water glasses. Panna cotta is super simple to make, and I’ve included my recipe below.
Panna Cotta Recipe:
Ingredients:
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 ½ teaspoons powdered unflavored gelatin
• ½ cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups heavy cream
1. Pour the milk into a medium saucepan. Sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the milk and set aside for 5 minutes to let the gelatin “bloom.” The surface of the milk will become dry and wrinkly.
2. Turn the heat to low and cook, stirring often, until the gelatin is dissolved, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the sugar, turn off the heat, and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Stir in the vanilla extract, vanilla bean paste, and salt. Add the cream and stir to combine.
4. Pour the mixture into a large measuring cup to easily distribute it into glasses. Divide the mixture among the glasses, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until set, at least 4 hours.
5. Top with lemon curd and raspberry coulis before serving.
By following these steps and tips, you can create a seamless and unforgettable dining experience that will leave your guests feeling special and delighted. Embrace the inspiration around you and let your creativity shine in your entertaining endeavors.
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)
