Northgate Living CA September 2023

Publication Team

Publisher: Jo Peek

Content Coordinator: Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

Designer: Emily Lund

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.

Dear Neighbors,

In our September issue of Northgate Living CA you will meet the Enzweiler family, a family rooted in the Valle Verde community, with two adorable kids. It’s always a pleasure getting to know more about the families that make up Northgate and learning the many ways we all connect with our community.

Wishing all of our Northgate area students a great back to school experience for the 23-24 school year!

We are devoted to sharing stories, events and news among our neighbors in this wonderful community. If you have a story, event or news to share, please email me at knavolio@bestversionmedia.com.

Check out our Facebook www.facebook.com/northgatelivingca and Instagram @northgatelivingca. We look forward to connecting with the community and spotlighting our sponsors in new ways!

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

Tim

tim.dhillon@compass.com

DRE 01521381 Khush

khush@compass.com

DRE 01480990

Jo Peek

Advertising - Print & Digital

Northgate Living CA

Jo Peek 925-272-8246 NorthgateLivingCA@gmail.com www.NorthgateLivingCA.com

Auto Detailing

No-H2O Auto Detailing

Brian Stranko 925-238-8182 brian.stranko@noh2o.com www.noh2o.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

Financial Advice

Element Wealth Management

Chris J. Held, CFP®, CRPS® CA Insurance #0E56816 (925) 433-9533 chris.held@elementwm.com www.elementwm.com

Hardscape Restoration

Concrete Paver Restorations

Drew Bogetti 408-828-6903 www.cprpaver.com drew@cprpaver.com

HVAC & IAQ

Evergreen IAQ

JC Garcia 925-444-5069

jc@evergreenIAQ.com https://evergreeniaq.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.

No-H2O Auto Detailing provides you with premium quality, mobile, waterless auto detailing. We come to you, your house, your business, your gym – wherever you need us. And, yes, we are waterless! We help you save California’s precious water – on average, 35 gallons per detail. Our eco-friendly products and attentive service make your car sparkle and leave it spotless inside and out, while lasting longer than your typical detail.

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.

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!

For over 17 years, Chris has been working with families in Walnut Creek and the surrounding area. As a Certified Financial Planner™, he engages people with all aspects of money management. Originally from Plymouth, Minnesota, he is a huge fan of the outdoors, vintage cars and Minnesota Vikings. Chris has given back to the community by coaching and mentoring youth, organizing food drives, and lending professional services for those in need. He lives in the Diablo Shadows neighborhood with his wife and son.

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!”

We are a family owned, residential AC and heating company specializing in indoor air quality and high efficiency system maintenance. I truly believe that every household should be able to control their comfort level while keeping their energy costs to a minimum AND ensure clean, fresh air to breathe inside their own homes. It IS your castle after all.I am committed to reinventing the industry and showing the world a new way to do business and get things done... The Evergreen Way.

Insurance Services

Crusberg-Decker Insurance Services, Inc.

Scott Decker and Patrick Decker (925) 239-0004

Scott@cdinsurance.com

Patrick@cdinsurance.com

http://www.cdinsurance-walnutcreek.com/

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/

Crusberg-Decker is your local independent insurance agency with experience in both personal and commercial insurance. As independent agents, representing only “A” rated insurance companies, Patrick and Scott work with their clients to provide proper coverage, competitive premiums, and outstanding service. They take pride in establishing relationships and offering personalized service to each and every client.

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.

Meet the

Enzweilers

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

Nick Enzweiler is a Bay Area native through and through. He was born in San Francisco, raised in Moraga, and now lives and works in Walnut Creek. He left the bay only briefly to attend Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, but returned for his Master’s degree at St. Mary’s College in Moraga. Nick met his wife, Jen, at the downtown Walnut Creek restaurant Rooftop where a local love story bloomed. Nick went out for drinks with some co-worders one evening; one of the co-workers invited her friend Jen to come along, and the chemistry was instant. “We spent the whole night talking and dancing,” remembers Nick. They had their first official date a few days later. In Oct. 2019 they married at Gustafson Family Vineyards in Geyserville.

Jen was born in Vancouver, Canada, and went to school at the University of Arizona, also living in San Francisco for a short time before coming to Walnut Creek. She got her degree in Business Administration and worked as a Financial Controller for several law firms before starting her own consulting business helping law firms improve their accounting systems and the overall health of their businesses. Nick is also entrepreneurial, starting his own wealth management firm, Mercer Partners Wealth Management, after working as a Financial Planner and Investment Advisor for 17 years. He enjoys helping his clients pursue financial independence with comprehensive

financial planning and investment management services.

In addition to rooting for our Bay Area Sports teams (Oakland A’s, San Francisco 49ers, and Golden State Warriors), the family is very active in local youth sports as well. Nick is a volunteer grassroots basketball coach and helps coach their son Nate’s Peanut League baseball team. Nate is 4 and will also be starting Walnut Creek Surf Soccer this fall. He likes going to the driving range with dad too! “Nate and I have gone to many A’s games this season and we hope to attend more games as a family before the team leaves for Las Vegas,” Nick adds.

Charlie is 10 and attends Valle Verde Elementary. She plays on the competitive U11 team for Walnut Creek Surf Soccer and also dances at The Ballet School Performing Arts Center in downtown Walnut Creek. She will be dancing in their annual “Once Upon a Christmas” production at the Lesher Center this December.

Jen used to ride her beloved horse Stella in hunter/jumper competitions, but since giving birth to Nate she now enjoys just riding her as often as time allows around the trails near Arbolado where Stella’s stabled at the DeVito Equestrian Center.

In addition to golf and fishing, Nick enjoys a monthly neighborhood “Dads Poker Night,” and the family also gets together with other families in the neighborhood for a monthly

Jen and Stella at competition

Photos provided by the Enzweiler family

game night. “We rotate going to each other’s homes and play card/board games while eating great food and drinking nice wines,” says Nick.

The Enzweilers like to spend vacation time in our beautiful state and in Canada (seeing Jen’s family). “We enjoy spending time outdoors and appreciate how lucky we are to live in the Bay Area where there is so much to do outside. We love beach days in Bodega Bay and Santa Cruz, camping at Bass Lake, or being tourists in the Monterey Peninsula. Additionally, we love wine tasting trips up to Napa Valley, occasional ski trips to Lake Tahoe,” adds Nick.

“We enjoy the people and the location; we have nice neighbors, some of whom have become close friends. We hope to continue to expand our friendships within the community,” Nick says of living here.

We hope you get a chance to meet them on the soccer field, at the driving range, at Valle Verde, or anywhere around town.

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.

Chloe

ARF Adoption Stars

Submitted by Cole Kuiper

Adopt 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:

Two-year-old Monte is an outgoing dude who loves to romp around and play with his people and dog friends alike. He was adopted from ARF as a puppy, but unfortunately his new guardian passed away less than two years later. He loves learning new commands/tricks, playing with other dogs, and snuggling up for some cuddles. He’s even lived happily with cats! Despite all he’s been through, Monte has kept an upbeat attitude and loves flashing his trademark smile. Bonus: Monte’s adoption fee has been prepaid by a generous donor.

ARF 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

When five-year-old Mando first joined us at ARF, he was shy and reserved, hiding his true personality. But it didn’t take long for his fun, loving side to show and for him to realize how badly he wanted to join a family. Does that sound like any Mandalorians you may have heard of? This a handsome lad will woo you with his big, fluffy cheeks and affectionate personality. He’ll do just about anything for a scratch on the top of his head or a tasty treat. Meet Mando today!

Bonus: Mando’s adoption fee has been prepaid by a generous donor..

ARF adoption fees:

• $100 for an adult cat

• $175 for a kitten (<6 months)

• $150 for two adult cats, $300 for two kittens

• $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 Veterans

Real Estate Listings in Northgate

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.

September

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Tues., Sept. 12

Live from the Library! presents: Shakespeare: 1623 and the First Folio - And the Women we may have lost @ Walnut Creek Library, Oak View Room

In 1623, Shakespeare’s two partners, John Heminges and Henry Condell, took Shakespeare’s plays to a printer. The result was what has become known as the First Folio. Mark Jordan will illuminate all in his engaging theatrical presentation. Register for this program at wclibrary.org.

Time: 7pm

Sat., Sept. 16

Public Art Walking Tour

@ Start at Lesher Center Bedford Gallery docents will lead walking tours of Walnut Creek’s wonderful downtown public art collection. Docents are trained by public art specialists and can offer information and insight appropriate for all ages. Each month will feature a different walk. Registration not required. More information: https://www.bedfordgallery.org/ public-art/public-art-tours

Cost: $5 cash, includes admission to Bedford Gallery Time: 10:00-11:00 am

Thurs., Sept. 21

Remodeling Seminar

@Gordon Reese Design Build (3021 Citrus Circle #170, Walnut Creek)

Join us for an exciting in-person seminar featuring a captivating guest speaker, delightful Wine & Cheese, and invaluable remodeling insights. If you or anyone you know is considering remodeling, this is the perfect event to gain inspiration and find the right solutions for your dream project! Don’t miss out on this enriching opportunity. See you there!” RSVP: https://gordonreese.com/ home-remodeling-seminar/ or by phone (925) 885-3770

Cost: Complimentary Time: 6-8pm

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

Save the date:

Mon., Oct. 2

Ygnacio Valley Book Club

@Ygnacio Valley Library Join the Ygnacio Valley Library Book Group for lively, thoughtful book discussions! Share your thoughts and connect with fellow readers. Our club meets in person every 1st Monday of the month at the Ygnacio Valley Library. All teens and adults are welcome. Check with Ygnacio Valley Library Staff about obtaining copies of the selected title. October’s book is Crying in the H Mart by Michelle Zauner.

Cost: Free

Time: 6:30-7:45 pm

Fri., Oct. 13 and Sat., Oct. 14

Oktoberfest

@Civic Park

It’s time to clink glasses and lift your spirits with Ein Prosit der Gemütlichkeit — a toast to cheers and good times — in honor of the upcoming fall season and popular Oktoberfest celebration. 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 2-day-long, family-friendly event recreates the beloved German fall celebration. Oktoberfest will include live entertainment, music, dancing, gourmet food and dozens of artisan vendors, arts & crafts, biergarten with dozens of craft beers, wine, international music, Kinder Platz Kids Zone.

Time: 6-10 pm Fri. and 12-8pm Sat. Free general admission

We want to hear from you!

We are looking for articles from you, our residents.

Tell us about a charity you volunteer for, a hobby, a great hike you’ve found, a special way you celebrated a holiday, craft ideas, recipes, a beautiful photo!

Send your ideas or photos to knavolio@bestversionmedia.com by the 10th of the month for publishing the next month.

Super Summer Bean Salad

By Lisa Assoni, Short cut cook, Resident since 2012

Super Summer dish. Refreshing and delicious.

Legumes, as they are known, are complex carbohydrates. Eating them staves off your hunger and helps keep you regular. Life can produce anxiety, so let’s keep our systems moving.

• 1/2 bunch parsley, wash and remove stems

• 1 small white onion, thinly sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (141/2) can garbanzo beans, drained

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

• 1 tsp. chili powder

• 1 tsp. sugar

• 1 tsp. salt

Using a mini-chopper or food processor, add parsley, onion and garlic. Pulse and finely dice.

Transfer mixture to bowl, add beans and toss well with olive oil, vinegar, and spices.

Refrigerate. Or make it, eat it, and enjoy right away!

Unlocking the Secrets to a Cost-Effective Remodeling Journey!

By Gordon Reese, Gordon Reese Design Build. Resident since 2008

Embarking on a remodeling project can be an exciting journey of transformation, but it’s important to navigate carefully to avoid costly mistakes. With the insights of a seasoned remodeling professional, this article will guide you through potential pitfalls, helping you steer clear of errors that could drain your budget. So, let’s set sail with confidence and avoid the remodeling storms that could cost you thousands!

Plotting the Course: The Importance of Planning

Imagine the planning phase as the compass that sets your remodeling voyage’s direction. Skipping this step is like sailing without a map – you risk drifting aimlessly and facing financial turbulence. Create a comprehensive plan that includes design vision, project scope, and budget allocation. Consider seeking the assistance of a skilled remodeling professional to help you chart a clear path that aligns with your vision and budget.

Navigating Regulatory Waters: Permits and Regulations

Disregarding permits and building codes is akin to sailing into dangerous waters without a navigation chart. These regulations ensure safety and quality in your remodeling journey. Neglecting them can lead to hefty fines and unexpected setbacks. A seasoned remodeling professional can serve as your guide, helping you navigate the permit process and ensuring your project sails within legal boundaries.

Riding Out Financial Challenges: Mastering Your Budget

Underestimating the financial aspect is a mistake that can sink your remodeling dreams. Just as a sailor stocks provisions, allocate a contingency fund of 10-20% of your budget to weather unforeseen financial challenges. This foresight will help you stay afloat even when faced with rough financial seas.

Material Selection: Beyond Appearance

Choosing materials based solely on aesthetics is like selecting a ship based on looks, ignoring its seaworthiness. Consider factors like durability, functionality, and maintenance when making material choices. Rely on the expertise of your

remodeling professional to strike the right balance between style and substance, ensuring your selections stand the test of time.

The Dilemma of DIY: Knowing When to Sail Solo

While DIY projects might be appealing, attempting complex remodeling tasks without the necessary skills is like navigating unfamiliar waters without a competent crew. While DIY can be suitable for small projects, it’s best to entrust major undertakings to experienced professionals. This will prevent costly mistakes that could lead you off course.

Choosing Your Crew: Deciphering the Contractor Conundrum

Selecting the right contractor is similar to assembling a reliable crew for your maritime adventure. Opting for the lowest bid may seem tempting, but it could lead to rough waters ahead. Conduct thorough research, gather references, and explore online reviews to find a reputable remodeling professional with a proven track record. Their expertise will steer your project toward successful completion.

Navigating Mid-Journey Adjustments

Constantly changing your course during the journey can result in confusion and unexpected expenses. While some flexibility is necessary, aim to finalize your design before starting construction to avoid

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costly detours. Effective communication and timely decision-making will help you maintain a steady course.

Anchoring Long-Term Value: A Strategic Approach

Remodeling isn’t just about immediate satisfaction; it’s an investment in your home’s future value. Prioritize choices that strike a balance between your current desires and your property’s potential resale value. A remodeling professional can help you navigate this course effectively, ensuring that your remodeling journey enhances both your living space and your home’s marketability.

In conclusion, your remodeling journey offers a chance to shape your living spaces according to your style and needs. By following the advice of a seasoned remodeling professional and steering clear of common pitfalls, you can navigate the remodeling waters with confidence and financial prudence. Set your sails, stay the course, and may your remodeling journey be one of smooth sailing and rewarding transformations.

And don’t forget, we’re here to help! If you have any remodeling questions or need expert advice, feel free to reach out to us at Questions@GordonReese.com. Our team of professionals is ready to assist you in turning your vision into a reality. Happy remodeling!

After a fantastic 2022 campaign that saw the Broncos advance to the semi-finals of the Division 3 NCS Championships, the Northgate Football team is not considering 2023 a rebuild, it is simply a reload.

Head Coach Ben Ballard and his staff have returners at a plethora of positions combined with young talent who has been waiting for their opportunity. Senior Kawika Boyd has patiently been waiting 3 years for his opportunity as the signal calling Quarterback. He enjoys returning starters on the Offensive line in

Northgate Broncos Football team is ready for another great year

By Zack Torrey, Assistant Varsity Football Coach

Tony Pucci and Max Anum, plus returning running back Ben Hosler, returning receivers Jake Berger, Bo Molinelli, Jake Ebrahimi and Blayne Ballard. The defense will be stout with Linebackers Jack Kessler and Thanasi Polyzos joined by Owen Fruchtenict and Eytan Juergens among others. Junior Safety Brady Willis, along with Tyler Jewell, return after breakout Sophomore seasons and major contributions in the playoff push. Dante Bisone, Brandon Johnson, Miles Louie, Hayden August and others will be major contributors in the trenches in 2023. The Special Teams will enjoy an embarrassment of riches with 5- star kicker Lucas Lesieur AND 4.5star kicker Blayne Ballard! The Broncos open at Reno High School, who also made it deep in the Nevada state playoffs in 2022. All signs point to another exciting season for the Broncos!

Northgate High School Football Schedule -

Come out and support the Broncos this season!

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

The Bronco Football team is returning many strong players after reaching the playoffs last season. It’s sure to be an exciting season!

Fri. 8/25 Reno High School - Reno, NV

7:00 pm Away * Non-League

Fri. 9/1 Tamalpais - Mill Valley

7:00 pm Home • Non-League

Fri, 9/8 Twelve Bridges - Lincoln

7:00 pm Home • Non-League

Fri, 9/22 Miramonte - Orinda

7:00 pm Away • League

Fri, 9/29 Las Lomas - Walnut Creek

7:00 pm Away • League

Fri, 10/6 Acalanes - Lafayette

7:00 pm Away • League

Fri, 10/13 Campolindo - Moraga

7:00 pm Home • League

Fri, 10/20 College Park - Pleasant Hill

7:00 pm Away • League

Fri, 10/27 Alhambra - Martinez

7:00 pm Home • Non-League

Fri, 11/3 Benicia

7:00 pm Home • League

Walnut Creek Men’s Golf Club at Boundary Oak

Submitted by Matt Sanregret, Northgate resident since 1998

The Walnut Creek Men’s Golf Club has crowned a new club champion for 2023. Glenn Gregersen, long time Walnut Creek resident, defeated Matthew Farrell 3 & 2 to win the annual match play event. Congratulations Glenn!

The WCMGC also hosted a two-man par point event in July and the following teams won their respective flights.

• Nicholas King & Norman King

• Alec Read-Skyhawk & David Skyhawk

• Mike Horne & Steve Davison

This Fall will bring more great competition to Boundary Oak Golf Course with the End of Summer Classic tournament as well as the annual two-day Fall Festival in September.

WCMGC prides itself on being involved in the community, being inclusive and giving all members the opportunity to play, compete and make new friends. Memberships are available for Walnut Creek residents and non-residents for Men, Women, and Juniors with Regular memberships, Fall Special memberships, and e-Member options.

The Club conducts over 20 tournaments annually out of Boundary Oak Golf Course in Walnut Creek. The tournaments vary in format and are flighted to accommodate all competitive levels. Tournaments are generally conducted on weekend mornings. Tee times are also available early Monday and Wednesday mornings for weekday play and skins games.

Backyard Happy Hour

By Lisa Crossett, Resident since 2001

It is five o’clock on a Friday. Hopefully, your week is nicely tied up into a neat bow. With summer ending around the corner, it is a brilliant time to enjoy your backyard, deck, or patio with a glass of wine or your favorite signature cocktail. Of course, you will want a few delightful bites to accompany your adult libations. Don’t forget to grab your wireless blue tooth speakers and click your favorite playlist to get the party started.

With our fantastic weather in Walnut Creek, it is almost like going on vacation or to your favorite winery when you enjoy your backyard space. Okay, I like to dream. Big smile. With the summer months ending soon, now is the time to take advantage of the warm evenings. My hubby and I love to spend a Friday night decompressing and chatting about our day in our backyard. We typically open a nice bottle of wine or mix a cocktail, and nibble on some appetizers or charcuterie board most Friday nights. Often it is just the two of us, but we love to have friends join us. In the July issue, I shared tips on putting together a fantastic charcuterie board, if you want to be inspired.

When choosing wine, I suggest stepping it up from the typical “Wednesday wine” since you are kicking off the weekend. We define a Wednesday wine as one that is under $20.00. On a quick side note, my hubby found a fantastic Wednesday wine at Trader Joe’s called “Maison Barboulot, Cabernet-Syrah” for $5.99 a bottle.

You can’t go wrong with a buttery chardonnay, which often has notes of vanilla, caramel, pear, and spices. The flavors will be enhanced as the wine comes to room temperature. A simple cheese plate with a Petite Basque cheese, dried apricots, nuts, and crackers would pair wonderfully with your favorite chardonnay. We particularly enjoy Butter, Frank Family and Newton Chardonnays.

We are smitten with Napa Valley Cabs, which are renowned for their rich and complex flavors of black currant, black cherry, blackberry with notes of green bell pepper, spices, tobacco, cedar, and vanilla. A few of our favorites include Sequoia Grove, Lancaster, Handwritten Wines, Leviathan, Silver Oak, and Faust. I served maple bacon deviled eggs alongside a bottle of Silver Oak and grilled focaccia mortadella bites with a bottle of Sequoia Grove. Both were perfect pairings.

If a cocktail is your preference, you are in good company. In my mind, a quintessential cocktail is from the prohibition era. Quite frankly, I am obsessed with “The Last Word” and “The Aviation” which both share gin as the primary liquor. A simple mixture of warm citrus olives and a bowl of roasted brown sugar and rosemary cashews are the perfect nibbles for these cocktails.

The Last Word cocktail is ¾ ounce gin, ¾ ounce green Chartreuse, ¾ ounce maraschino liqueur, ¾ ounce fresh lime juice added to a shaker with ice, then strained into your favorite coupe glass and garnished with brandied cherries. The Aviation cocktail is eye catching with its vibrant purple hue. It is comprised of 1 ½ ounces gin, ¾ ounce fresh lemon juice, ½ ounce maraschino liqueur, 1 ounce crème de violette added to a shaker with ice, then strained into your favorite coupe glass and garnished with a fresh purple flower or brandied cherry.

A quick idea for keeping bugs away from your tasty treats, is to hop onto Amazon and order a few “fly fans” which really make a difference. Cheers to a fun and relaxing rest of your summer!

Lisa has been a Northgate resident since 2001. Professionally she is the Head of Talent Acquisition for Mechanics Bank with headquarters in Walnut Creek. She is the President of California Recruiters and on the board 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 elegant dinner parties, explore wine country, collect wine and cook great food. authenticsuburbangourmet.blogspot.com authenticsuburbangourmet@gmail.com Instagram: @authenticsuburbangourmet

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Ever dreamed of writing a novel?

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

If so, you’re invited to join author of 16 books, Ana Galvan, for a writer’s salon.

Ana, a native of Spain who has lived in Concord since 2005, has been writing since 2014 and self-publishing her novels and poetry collections through Amazon.

Through Mt. Diablo Adult Education, she offers a place for writers to come together and build community. Her goal is to help people get their stories written down. She uses the Pomodoro technique where you are given prompts and write for 20 minutes at a time. These writings become springboards for the stories you want to tell. The class meets in Pleasant Hill, and the fall session begins on Sept. 14. Visit mdae.mdusd.org for the class schedule and to sign up. The course is repeated again in the winter session.

Dentistry’s Vital Role in Diagnosing and Treating Sleep Apnea

By Dr. Tobian and Dr. Keifer

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder caused by a collapsed airway, leading to interrupted breathing during sleep. It occurs when the upper airway becomes partially or completely blocked. Consequently, the individual experiences temporary breathing cessation, leading to decreased oxygen levels in the blood and recurrent awakenings throughout the night. In recent years, dentistry has emerged as an essential player in the diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea due to its expertise in managing the anatomical structures associated with the airway.

Dentists are well-equipped to identify and address anatomical issues that contribute to airway obstruction during sleep. The collapsing of the airway can be influenced by various factors, such as the size and position of the jaw, the structure of the soft palate, and the position of the tongue. Dentists with expertise in this area can perform thorough evaluations to identify signs of airway collapse and recommend suitable treatment options. One of the most common treatments prescribed by dentists for sleep apnea patients is oral appliance therapy (OAT).

Oral appliance therapy involves custom-made dental devices that are worn during sleep to prevent the airway from collapsing. These appliances work by repositioning the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open, thus promoting a steady flow of air during sleep. OAT is often preferred by patients who find continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines uncomfortable or are unable to tolerate them.

In our dental practice, we have taken a proactive approach to address sleep apnea concerns in our patients. Recognizing the significance of identifying and managing sleep apnea cases related to a collapsed airway, we have incorporated a take-home sleep study testing device as part of our diagnostic arsenal. This cutting-edge device allows us to conveniently provide our patients with suspected sleep apnea a non-invasive and user-friendly tool to monitor their sleep patterns in the comfort of their own homes.

Once a patient is identified with the signs of sleep apnea, we will recommend a home sleep study test. These tests record vital metrics such as breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and sleep disruptions, enabling us to gather valuable data about the presence and severity of sleep apnea. The test results are then meticulously reviewed and certified by a sleep physician, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the diagnosis.

By having this capability in our dental practice, we aim to streamline the diagnostic process for sleep apnea, leading to early detection and timely intervention. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent the potential long-term consequences of untreated sleep apnea, such as cardiovascular issues, daytime fatigue, and impaired cognitive function.

By combining dental expertise with insights from sleep medicine specialists, we offer a comprehensive approach to patient care. Collaboration ensures tailored treatment plans to meet individual needs effectively. Together, we strive to improve patients’ wellbeing and overall health. Here are a few of the OAT we have made for our patients.