Photo by Mehak Khullar Photography
April
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Sat., April 19
Public Art Walking Tour
@The Lesher Center Plaza is the beginning point. 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 offer information and insight appropriate for all ages. Cost: $5 cash for adults, free for those under 18 Time:10-11am
April 12- June 22
Limitless: Celebrating
Artists with Disabilities
@Bedford Gallery, Lesher Center for the Arts
Recognizing the indelible contributions of artists with intellectual and developmental disabilities working in the visual arts, this exhibition challenges conventional narratives and broadens our understanding of creativity, innovation, and expression. Since Creative Growth’s opening in 1974 and the subsequent launch of NIAD in 1982 and Creativity Explored in 1983, these institutions have been at the forefront of creating visibility for artists with disabilities in the Bay Area. We are honored to present 65 artists—with practices at these organizations—in a comprehensive survey that includes media from ceramics and textiles to figurative and abstract painting and drawing.
Sat., April 26
Preschool Art Pop-Up
@Civic Park
We will have hands-on activities for our little artists including bubble art, coloring, face painting, a gak (slime) sensory table, beading, flower balloons, and more! This FREE family event is specifically designed for our youngest learners (ages 0-5 years) and their families. Thanks to our wonderful community partners for joining us on this creative adventure: We Care, Monument First 5 Center, and Community Arts Foundation.
Cost: Free Time: 9:30-11:30am
Every Monday
Free Yoga Class
@1399 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Suite 26
Behavioral Fitness Presents- Another Living Better through Community offering - Yoga is for all of us. A beautiful way to start the 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 (c)3). Much more than physical
fitness it includes social, emotional, and environmental wellness too. Meet your neighbors and invite a friend. All levels will find their place in this gentle and inspiring time in our new space. Space is limited so please text or call to rsvp (925) 818-8062. Cost: FREE Time: 9-10am
Every Saturday
Farmers’ Market
@Shadelands Business Park
Farmers bring their best from the nearby farming areas, kid’s craft corner, live music. www.cafarmersmkts.com/ diablo-valley-farmers-market Time: 9am-1pm
Save the Date: Thurs., May 22
Remodeling Seminar
@Gordon Reese Design Build (3021 Citrus Circle #170, Walnut Creek) 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: Complimentary Time: 5:45-7:30pm
Sat., May 31 and Sun., June 1
Art & Wine Festival
@Civic Park
The 42nd annual Art & Wine Festival is moving to Civic Park. Fun for the entire family, the annual kick-off to the Summer festival draws 40,000 + attendees from all over the Bay Area. Festival goers fill the park to enjoy arts and crafts and commercial vendor booths, festival foods, a wide range of wines, a craft beer garden, continuous live music, children’s activities, and more in a beautiful park setting.
Publication Team
Publisher: Jo Peek
Content Coordinator: Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991
Designer: Meagan Patry
Contributing Photographer: Mehak Khullar
Advertising
Contact: Jo Peek
Email: JPeek@bestversionmedia.com
Feedback/Ideas/Submissions:
Have feedback, ideas, or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 10th of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas, and photos to: Knavolio@bestversionmedia.com.
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. © 2025 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.
Dear Neighbors,
Spring is here! Our open space is full of wildflowers, spring fever is in the air, and baseball season is well underway! Whatever it is that you like to do at this time of year, Happy Spring! It’s time to get outside and enjoy this beautiful area we live in.
In this issue you will meet the Bartlett family, a family that takes full advantage of our beautiful open space and ground their family in love and faith.
I’m eager to hear from you and share your stories whether you have gardening or book tips, an adorable pet, an interesting adventure to share, a hobby, a recipe, a charity you’re involved with, or any other topic you think the Northgate neighbors would like to hear more about. I’m also looking for families to feature each month on the front cover. I believe that interesting stories don’t just come from celebrities, but from our own communities. Everyone has a story to tell, and I’d love it if you’d let me tell yours. Send your articles and photos to knavolio@bestversionmedia.com.
Connect with us on Facebook or Instagram and visit us online at www.northgatelivingCA.com.
Kara Navolio
Northgate Living CA Content Coordinator
Resident Since 1991
If you have a story, event or news to share please email me at knavolio@bestversionmedia.com. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook: NorthgateLivingCA.
Jo Peek
Expert Contributors
Advertising - Print & Digital
Northgate Living CA
Jo Peek
925-272-8246
NorthgateLivingCA@gmail.com www.NorthgateLivingCA.com
Auto Service and Repair
Diablo Auto Specialists
Bill Adams & Melissa Brunson
925-478-5721
1439 Autocenter Drive
Walnut Creek, CA 94597 www.diabloautospecialists.com
Design, Build & Remodeling
Gordon Reese
Gordon Reese Design Build 925-477-4953
Marketing@GordonReese.com GordonReese.com
Real Estate
Rita Dhillon
Compass Real Estate (925) 570-1010
Rita.Dhillon@compass.com www.RitaDhillonTeam.com
Storage Expert
Shadelands Self Storage 925-935-6200 info@shadelandsstorage.com https://shadelandsstorage.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.
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.
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
we have
units, non-combustible construction and many additional features to fit your storing needs.
Meet the Bartletts A Life Rooted in Faith and Love
By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991; Photos provided by the Bartlett Family
Marlene and Adam’s story began at church, and their faith has served as a cornerstone of their marriage and growing family ever since. As young professionals in 2009 they both attended a young adult trivia night at their church in San Francisco. They quickly discovered that they worked for the same company – Gap, Inc. in different departments, Marlene in inventory management for Baby Gap and Adam in corporate finance. Their first date soon followed at Shalimar Restaurant; it became a special place for them for many years. Their love story blossomed from there, and they were married a few years later in the same church where they met – St. Dominic’s, a beautiful gothic cathedral in Pacific Heights.
Adam attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and double majored in business (finance) and industrial technology, plus a minor in Spanish. He spent a semester in Spain with a host family and became fluent in Spanish. He has spent most of his career in corporate finance for large companies, most recently at Grocery Outlet. Adam enjoys the benefits of living in Walnut Creek as a avid mountain bike rider accessing our beautiful trails and swimming laps at Clarke Swim Center. He’s also a BBQ enthusiast and sourdough bread maker.
Marlene attended UCLA and, after stints at Gap and Mervyns, landed her dream job in marketing for Ghirardelli Chocolate. Marlene says, “I didn’t have any formal marketing experience, but because of my sheer chocolate smarts from having a sweet tooth my whole life, I was given a chance!” She spent seven years there and loved working on new product development, especially coming up with and sampling new flavors. She adds, “As much as I loved my dream career in chocolate, something even sweeter came along that changed everything – the birth of our first daughter Holly.”
After a year of being a working mom, Marlene and Adam made the decision to move from San Mateo to Walnut Creek so Marlene could step away from her career and be a full-time mom. “It was the best decision for our family and the most rewarding work I’ve ever done.”
Another daughter followed two years later, and once both girls were in pre-school Marlene realized moms like her needed a support system and a respite once in a while. She started Mornings Out Childcare, a once a week, licensed childcare program to give moms a break and provide a nurturing space for toddlers to learn through play.
During the years Marlene ran her Mornings Out Childcare program, the Bartletts saw firsthand the
profound impact caregiving could have on families. “Even before this, we were personally touched by the importance of quality care during a different stage of life— when each of our grandmothers needed support to remain at home as they aged,” adds Marlene. “Witnessing how the right kind of care could preserve dignity, foster independence, and maintain meaningful connections for our loved ones was deeply inspiring. These experiences planted the seed for a broader vision: to create a caregiving service that helps families by providing compassionate, personalized support for their loved ones, allowing them to thrive in the comfort of their own homes.”
This vision has now become Uplift Home Care, their new family-owned business focused on providing premium home care services. Home care offers essential support for individuals—primarily seniors—who wish to remain in the comfort of their own homes while receiving help with daily activities, personal care, or companionship. It’s not just for older adults, though. Home care can also support individuals recovering from illness or injury, or those with disabilities who need assistance to maintain their independence. By tailoring care plans to each person’s unique needs and preferences, home care allows families to feel confident knowing their loved ones are safe, comfortable, and well cared for.
The Bartlett family grew again one year ago when baby Noelle was born. She adores her big sisters and going on stroller walks with mom. “Her big sisters are the sweetest helpers,” adds Marlene. “They make her
Cute Chickie
giggle and read to her. Watching the bond they share and the love they pour into their baby sister has been one of the greatest joys of this season in our lives.” Holly is now in 3rd grade and loves history, Latin, the color pink and soccer. Mia is in 1st grade and loves science, cats, and the color green. Both of the older girls swim for the Ygnacio Woods Swim Team and attend North Creek Academy, where their family also attends church.
“Family is deeply important to us,” says Marlene. “Our desire is to cultivate a home
life that is firmly grounded in faith, honors God, and anchors our relationships in love and compassion.” Family dinners are part of this. They have a tradition called “High, Low, Buffalo” at dinnertime. Each family member shares their high of the day, their low, and a “buffalo,” which is something surprising that happened. “The girls absolutely love this time of conversation,” shares Marlene.
They are also happy to live close to one of Marlene’s brothers and his family who are in Concord. Each summer Marlene’s parents take all their kids and grandkids on a vacation, most often to Santa Cruz, for family bonding time. Marlene and her three brothers have produced eight granddaughters so far!
The Bartletts have four chickens who provide the best fresh eggs. And living close to the open space on Mockingbird Hill also means a bevy of wildlife entertains the girls as well, from an occasional deer, to quail, squirrels, ducks and turkeys. The Bartletts put a focus on nature, books, and imaginative play, with very little screen time other than an occasional family movie night.
Marlene prides herself, also, on her “cabinet of
sweet treats” that is full of
chocolate, from her favorites from her working days to new trends in the chocolate world. To their neighbors they say, “Thank you for collectively keeping this community beautiful.”
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.
Biking to school
Ballet Class
Joybound Looking for Love
By Chelsea Blackburn, 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: MondaySunday, 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.
Joybound adoption fees:
• $150 for an adult dog
• $375 for a puppy (<6 months)
• $75 for a special-needs dog
• $200 for a special-needs puppy (<6 months)
• $75 for a senior dog (7+ years)
• Adoption fees waived for US military Veterans
• $100 for an adult cat
• $175 for a kitten (<6 months)
• $50 for a special-needs cat
• $100 for a special-needs kitten (<6 months)
• $50 for a senior cat (7+ years)
• Adoption fees waived for US military Veteran
Mister Cutie Pie
Seymore
Roboto
Lucca Henry
Real Estate Listings in Northgate
Rita Dhillon Team #1 Northgate
Northgate Girls Softball Schedule
Submitted by Zack Torrey, Varsity Softball Coach
The Broncos are off to an incredible start, outscoring their opponents 43-0 in their first 3 games and allowing just 3 hits while striking out 33. Junior Ashley Herman has led the charge on the mound working 10 innings and striking out 25 while Senior transfer Mackenzie Hudson has been equally dominating in her 5 innings of work striking out 8. Seniors Makenna Choi and Addison Baxter are tearing the cover off the ball hitting .677 each with 2 home runs a piece. Junior speedster Taelyn Jriyasetapong is blazing around the basepaths hitting .636 with 7 hits and 4 stolen bases. Junior Stella Hanko and Sophomore sister Sophie are really producing at the plate hitting .455 and .600, respectively. Featuring only one freshman this year, Keeley Brennan is holding her own as a stand out outfielder - as is Junior returner Jiliian Neil. Sophomore Ryann Bohmaker, another key new addition, is proving to be a major contributor big bat. Senior Kailee Newberry, Senior Jocelyn Torrey, and Junior Lucky Franco round out the stellar roster as the Broncos aim to make a major push for a long playoff run. Attending home games is free and is a very exciting way to spend an afternoon in Bronco Country! Follow all the action on Instagram @northgatesoftball. Go Broncos, Find A Way!
4/4
4:00pm
@ San Clemente (San Clemente, CA) Location: San Clemente High School
4/4
6:00pm @ San Clemente (San Clemente, CA) Location: San Clemente High School
4/15
4:30pm
Alhambra (Martinez, CA) * Location: Northgate High School
4/16
4:30p
American Canyon (American Canyon, CA) Location: ACHS Varsity Field
4/17
4:30pm @ College Park (Pleasant Hill, CA) * Location: College Park High School
4/22
4:30pm Acalanes (Lafayette, CA) * Location: Northgate High School
4/24
4:30pm Clayton Valley Charter (Concord, CA) * Location: Northgate High School
4/29
4:30pm @ Benicia (Benicia, CA) * Location: Benicia High School
5/1
4:30pm @ Alhambra (Martinez, CA) * Location: Alhambra High School
5/6
4:30pm College Park (Pleasant Hill, CA) * Location: Northgate High School
5/8 4:30pm @ Acalanes (Lafayette, CA) * Location: Acalanes High School
5/13
4:30pm @ Clayton Valley Charter (Concord, CA) * Location: Clayton Valley Charter
5/15
4:30pm Benicia (Benicia, CA) * Location: Northgate High School
Battle of the Creek Trophy
Northgate Baseball Team is off to a great start under new coach
Submitted by Ben Ballard, Northgate Athletic Director
The baseball season is off to a good start, currently 3-0 (as of March 15) under new head Coach Lou Cesario. Come out and support the Broncos!
REMAINING REGULAR SEASON GAMES:
4/4
4:00pm @ Mt. Eden (Hayward, CA)
Location: Mt. Eden High School
4/5
TBA
Game Details: Alhambra Easter Tournament
4/7
TBA Game Details: Alhambra Easter Tournament
4/9 TBA
Game Details: Alhambra Easter Tournament
4/15
4:00pm Las Lomas (Walnut Creek, CA)
Location: Northgate High School
4/17
4:00pm @ Las Lomas (Walnut Creek, CA)
Location: Las Lomas High School
4/22
4:00pm @ Miramonte (Orinda, CA)
Location: Miramonte High School
4/24
4:00pm Miramonte (Orinda, CA)*
Location: Northgate High School
4/29
4:00pm Concord (Concord, CA)
Location: Northgate High School
5/1
4:00pm @ Concord (Concord, CA)
Location: Concord High School
5/6
4:00pm @ Mt. Diablo (Concord, CA)
Location: Mt. Diablo High School
5/8
4:00pm Mt. Diablo (Concord, CA)
Location: Northgate High School
5/13
4:00pm Berean Christian (Walnut Creek, CA)
Location: Northgate High School
5/14
4:00pm @ Berean Christian (Walnut Creek, CA)
Game Details: @DVC
Love Your Home Again: How a Remodel Can Transform Your Daily Life
By Gordon Reese, Gordon Reese Design Build, Resident since 2008
Your home is more than just a structure—it’s where life happens. It’s where you start your mornings, gather with family, unwind after a long day, and create lasting memories. But what if your home no longer meets your needs? Maybe your kitchen feels cramped, your bathroom lacks functionality, or your home’s layout just isn’t working for your lifestyle. If you find yourself frustrated with your space, a remodel could be the key to falling in love with your home all over again.
Remodeling isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about transforming how you live. A well-designed remodel enhances functionality, improves comfort, and creates a home that truly supports your lifestyle. Whether you need a more open layout, additional storage, or modern upgrades, the right remodel can make your home feel brand new—without the hassle of moving.
How a Remodel Can Improve Your Home and Life
A thoughtfully planned remodel can solve common frustrations and make your home a place you truly enjoy. Here are some of the top ways remodeling can transform your daily life:
1. A Kitchen Designed for Connection
The kitchen is the heart of the home, but if it’s outdated, lacks storage, or has an inefficient layout, it can feel more like a source of stress than a gathering place. A kitchen remodel can create a space that encourages connection, whether that means opening up the floor plan, adding a large island for meal prep and socializing, or upgrading to modern, energy-efficient appliances.
Imagine cooking in a kitchen where everything is within reach, your counters are clutter-free, and your family naturally gathers to share meals and conversation. A well-designed kitchen remodel makes everyday moments more enjoyable and functional.
2. A Bathroom That Feels Like a Retreat
Bathrooms are some of the most-used spaces in any home, yet they are often overlooked when it comes to remodeling. An outdated, cramped, or poorly designed bathroom can add unnecessary stress to your routine. Upgrading to a spa-inspired design with features like a walk-in shower, heated floors, and better lighting can turn your bathroom into a relaxing retreat.
A remodel allows you to incorporate smart storage solutions, better ventilation, and stylish finishes that not only improve function but also elevate the entire feel of the space.
3.
A Layout That Works for Your Family
Over time, your family’s needs evolve, but your home’s layout may not have kept up. Perhaps your once-perfect home now feels crowded, or maybe your work-from-home situation demands a dedicated office. A remodel can reconfigure your space to match your current lifestyle.
Converting an underused room into a home office, expanding the
living area for better flow, or adding an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) for extra space are just a few ways remodeling can make your home work better for you.
4. Smart Storage Solutions That Eliminate Clutter
Clutter can make even the most beautiful home feel chaotic. If your home lacks sufficient storage, you might constantly feel like you’re running out of space. Remodeling can incorporate built-in storage solutions that maximize every inch of your home—whether it’s custom cabinetry in the kitchen, built-in shelving in the living room, or a well-organized mudroom to keep daily essentials in check.
With the right design, you’ll have a place for everything, making your home feel more spacious, organized, and stress-free.
5. Energy Efficiency That Saves Money and Enhances Comfort
Remodeling is also an opportunity to make your home more energy-efficient. Upgrading insulation, replacing old windows, and installing energy-efficient appliances can significantly reduce your utility bills while making your home more comfortable year-round.
Not only do these improvements benefit your wallet, but they also add value to your home should you decide to sell in the future.
Why Now is the Perfect Time to Remodel
If you’ve been considering remodeling but have been putting it off, now is the perfect time to start planning. With rising home prices and interest rates, moving to a new home may not be the best option. Remodeling allows you to stay in the neighborhood you love while transforming your home to better fit your needs.
Planning ahead also ensures you have ample time to work through the design process, secure materials, and schedule construction at a time that works best for you.
Partnering with the Right Remodeling Team
A successful remodel starts with choosing the right team. At Gordon Reese Design Build, we specialize in helping homeowners fall in love with their homes again. Our design-build approach ensures a seamless process from concept to completion, with price certainty and expert guidance every step of the way.
We use 3D design to help you visualize your new space before construction begins, reducing stress and uncertainty. With decades of experience, we work within your investment range to create a home that’s functional, stylish, and built to last.
Let’s Create a Home You Love
You deserve a home that enhances your daily life. Whether it’s a kitchen that brings your family together, a bathroom that feels like a spa, or a redesigned space that works for your evolving needs, a remodel can make it happen.
Contact Gordon Reese Design Build today to start planning your transformation. Let’s create a space you’ll love for years to come! www.GordonReese.com
Walnut Creek Aquanut Athletes & Coach Part of Gold & Bronze Medals at Artistic Swimming World Cup in Paris, France
By Heather Olson, Photo by Stephen Moore
Five Aquanut athletes and long-time Aquanut Coach, Tammy McGregor, were part of the Gold & Bronze medals won by the United States National Team this past weekend at the Artistic Swimming World Cup in Paris, France. McGregor, a 1996 & 2000 Olympian, is the new Head coach for the U.S. National Team. She and five WCA athletes moved to Los Angeles to begin centralized training with the National Team last fall. Emileen Moore is a freshman at UCLA and balances college classes with full-time training while Morgan Woelfel & Karen Xue are finishing their senior year online while training with the National Team. Both Woelfel(Concord) and Xue gained acceptance into Stanford University where they plan to attend in the Fall of 2025. The youngest aquanut to make the move is sophomore Ghizal Akbar. At just 16, she is the youngest member of the squad. Akbar(Pleasant Hill), Xue(Alamo) and Moore(Walnut Creek) are also all ‘flyers’, or the athletes on top of the amazing acrobatic lifts that helped bring Gold and Bronze to the USA at this first 2025 World Cup event. Many countries utilize a single athlete as their flyer on all lifts, but the U.S. has several athletes now with great acrobatic skill.
We hired Gordon Reese Design Build to remodel our entire kitchen. Their designer has amazing vision and expertise. She listened to us, provided options and advice. The employees were very thorough and courteous. Gordon Reese came in on time and on budget. We couldn’t be happier. - Walnut Creek Resident “ “
Your Consultation and take the first step towards the home of your dreams
Spring Quiche!
Ham, zucchini, and mushrooms
By Shiva Keeney, Resident since 2024
This is your reminder to put those leftovers to good use with a delicious breakfast quiche! Quiche is my go-to brunch dish when family is in town because it can be made ahead, serves multiple people, and uses fewer eggs than I’d typically use when cooking for a group. It’s also a great option when you have family members who wake up at different times as it can be reheated or eaten cold and still tastes great! And don’t limit yourself to only breakfast quiche- we ate this one for dinner!
Almost all the ingredients (except the ham and pie crust) came from the Shadeland’s Farmers Market. While I usually shop from various vendors, this week’s produce haul came from King Ranch Farms and Chong’s, both of which offer certified organic produce. For the crust, we grabbed a gluten-free raw pie crust from Whole Foods, along with leftover ham from a previous meal. If gluten isn’t a concern for your household, they also carry regular pie crusts.
Hope you enjoy it!
Cheers, Shiva Keeney
IG: @kitchentender
Ingredients:
• Raw pie crust, ready to bake
• 6 large eggs
• 3/4 (milk or heavy cream. I used 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1/4 cup whole milk)
• 3/4t salt and 1/2t pepper
• 1/2 medium onion or small onion, chopped
• 1/2 zucchini, chopped
• 4 baby Bella mushrooms, chopped
• 3 or 4 oz cooked ham, cubed
• 1 or 2oz. goat cheese
• Toppings: arugula micro greens
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 375 F
2. Mix eggs, milk/cream, salt and pepper in a large bowl. Set aside.
3. Par-bake the pie crust for 3 minutes
4. Sauté onion, mushroom and zucchini for 2-3 minutes or until beginning to soften.
5. Add cooked ham to the veggie mix and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Transfer cooked veggie and ham mixture to the pie crust and spread out evenly. Cover with egg mixture to the top of the pie crust.
7. Top uncooked mixture with goat cheese and pop into the oven.
8. Bake quiche for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean.
9. Top with microgreens and serve alongside a small salad, fruit, hashbrowns or all of the above!
Appetizers Create Moments of Connection
By Lisa Crossett, Resident since 2001
Beyondtaste, appetizers are meant for sharing. They create moments of connection—friends gathered around a charcuterie board, hands reaching for the last stuffed mushroom, laughter over a bubbling pot of fondue. They bring people together, encouraging conversation and connection before the main event. Sometimes, they steal the spotlight. A grazing table filled with artfully arranged meats, cheeses, nuts, and fruit can be more satisfying than a heavy meal.
Appetizers are one of my absolute favorite things to make and serve— they’re the perfect way to bring people together, spark conversation, and set the stage for an unforgettable meal. Whether it’s an elegant gathering or a casual night in, there’s something magical about small bites packed with big flavor. I thought I’d share a couple of my all-time favorite appetizer recipes with you—tried, tested, and always a hit.
White Cheddar Olive Poppers
• 1 Cup (4 oz) white cheddar cheese, finely grated
• 2 T. Butter, softened
• ½ Cup Flour
• 1 Dash Cayenne Pepper
• 36 Small Green Olives with the pimentos in the centers, drained and dried really well
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Use a food processor to make the dough. Add the grated cheese, butter, flour and cayenne pepper. Pulse until the dough forms a ball. Add a touch of water if dough is too dry. Use about a heaping teaspoon of dough for each popper. Flatten each piece of dough and place the dried olive in the center then form the dough around the olive and roll quickly in your hand to form a ball. Repeat until all dough is gone. Place onto a cookie sheet that is ungreased and about an inch apart. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Let cool for a couple minutes and enjoy.
Apricot Mostarda Brie Cups
• 1/2 Cup Apple Cider Vinegar
• 1/2 Cup Water
• 1 1/4 Cup Dried Apricots (diced small)
• 2 T Sugar
• 1 T Honey
• 1 Shallot (finely minced)
• 1 Garlic Clove (finely minced)
• 2 T. Whole Grain Mustard
• 1 T. Dijon Mustard
• Pinch of Salt
Place all of the above ingredients into a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir with a spoon to combine. Let cook for 5 to 10 minutes until it thickens. Remove from the heat and let cool to room temperature.
You will also need:
• 1/2 pound brie cheese
• 12-15 pre-made phyllo cups
• Basil or micro-basil for garnish
To assemble the appetizer, place 12 to 15 of the phyllo cups onto a baking sheet and pre-heat the oven to 350 degrees. Remove the outer rind of the brie and place a couple teaspoons of the brie into each phyllo cup. Bake for 5 minutes. Remove from oven and top with about a teaspoon of the Apricot Mostarda on each and top with the micro basil or small piece of regular basil cut thin.
Watermelon Bites with
Jalapeño Lime Vinaigrette
Jalapeño Lime Vinaigrette
• ¼ Cup Fresh Lime Juice
• Zest of One Lime
• 1 to 2 Tablespoons Minced Jalapeño (Seeds removed)
• 1 Tablespoon Honey
• ¼ teaspoon Salt
• ¼ teaspoon Pepper
Watermelon Bites
• Feta cheese rounds
• Watermelon
• Toothpicks
Add all ingredients to a small mason jar and shake well. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Slice the feta ¼ inch thick slices and use a 3/4th to one inch round cookie cutter to make your feta circles. Cut the watermelon into 32 one-inch cubes OR purchase pre-cut watermelon. On a platter, stack 2 cubes of watermelon and place a circle of the feta on each one. Secure with a toothpick in the middle of each one. Drizzle the vinaigrette over each one and serve.
Appetizers are more than just the prelude to a meal; they’re an art form, a social experience, and sometimes, the best part of dining. So next time you entertain or crave something special, let the first bite be as memorable as the last. After all, a great appetizer isn’t just food—it’s an invitation to indulge, connect, and savor the moment.
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)
