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.
In our September issue of Northgate Living CA you will meet the Steinert family, a family that has built a strong connection to this community in just the past five years. It’s always a pleasure getting to know more about the families that make up Northgate and learning the many ways we all help each other thrive.
Please support the businesses that make this magazine possible through their advertising. They are local businesses run by our neighbors and friends in our local community.
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
Jo Peek
Fri., Sept. 5
Movies Under the Stars: Moana 2
@Civic Park
Activities and food/beverage sales will begin at 6:00 PM. The movie will start just after sundown (around 8:00 PM). Arrive early and set up your space on the grass! Bring blankets, low chairs, and money for the food and drink vendors (or feel free to bring your own)!
Cost: FREE
Time: 6-10:30pm
Tues., Sept. 9
Yoga and Sound Healing
@Bedford Gallery
Janine Ellis returns to Bedford Gallery for an evening of yoga and soul soothing sound healing to nourish the spirit and awaken the senses. Through mindful movement and immersive sound, invite wonder into the body, joy into each breath, and harmony into the heart all set amongst the expressive achromatic works of the Bedford’s exhibition Beyond Color: The Language of Black and White. Please bring a yoga mat and any props that support your comfort. All are welcome, no prior yoga experience needed.
Cost: $40
Time: 5:30-7pm
Sun., Sept. 14
Joybound Around Town
@Broadway Plaza Street
Calling all animal lovers! Joybound Around Town on Broadway (formerly known as Animals on Broadway) is one of Joybound’s biggest community events of the year! This annual festival is an opportunity for people and pets alike to celebrate the human-animal bond. Paws hit the pavement as the morning began with an easy, onemile pet walk around downtown Walnut Creek. Then, the fun continues into the afternoon with our action-packed pet festival, complete with adoptable animals across Northern California, face-painting, children’s
activities, dog training demonstrations, games, prizes, pet-related vendors, and –of course – the beloved best-dressed pet contest! We can’t wait to see you there! Questions? Contact events@joybound.org.
Cost: FREE
Time: 11am-4pm
Sun., Sep., 14
Uplift Home Care and Sensational Seniors Presents- A Conversation on Caregiving: Film Excerpt & Panel Discussion
@Koin Coffee N Wiget Lane Suite 100 Walnut Creek, CA (located in the Shadelands)
- This is a special community event featuring a 30-minute excerpt from the acclaimed PBS documentary Caregiving, executive produced by Bradley Cooper. This powerful film segment honors the caregiving journey—both paid and unpaid—through intimate personal stories and a revealing look at the often-overlooked history of care in America. Caregiving explores the emotional, financial, and societal dimensions of this essential work and sheds light on what’s at stake for families and communities today. Following the screening, stay for a heartfelt panel discussion moderated by Dr. Craig DeVinney of the Walnut Creek City Council, including a Q&A and access to local support resources. Coffee, tea, and sweet treats by Koin Coffee are on us! Please email mbartlett@uplifthomecare.com for a link to the Eventbrite tickets to reserve your spot.
Cost: FREE Time: 4-6pm
Sat., Sept. 20
Public Art Walking Tour
@Lesher Center for the Arts 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
Sat., Sept. 27
Makers Market
@Broadway Plaza Street
Come to lovely Broadway Plaza to enjoy our Makers Market Fair! We are rounding up the Best Local Makers and Great Vibes! Stop by and enjoy live music, great food, and incredible products from local makers! Shop small and support your community, you won’t want to miss this!
Cost: FREE
Time: 11am-5pm
Through Sept. 14
Beyond Color: The Language of Black and White Exhibit
@Bedford Gallery, Lesher Center for the Arts
This juried exhibition featuring local, national, and international artists explores the complex simplicity and expressive power of artwork rendered exclusively in black and white. Featuring a diverse range of work, Beyond Color highlights the remarkable ways artists harness the stark contrasts and subtle gradations of achromatic media to convey profound emotion, intricate detail, and striking composition. Time: Wed.-Sun. 12-5pm
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 weekcome 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
LNB Accounting provides expert accounting and tax services for Bay Area businesses. We streamline your financial operations while ensuring compliance and growth. Whether you’re managing nonprofit grants or overseeing construction projects, we bring the same detailed attention that powers our consumer service clients to every industry we serve.
Over the last 10 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.
Trevor Adams and Ian Anderson 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. Trevor and Ian bring years of experience in the independent service and repair business and own additional stores in Castro Valley and Albany.
With over 41 years of experience, Gordon Reese Design Build is a nationally recognized, award-winning firm dedicated to transforming homes into spaces that truly reflect your lifestyle. Specializing in kitchens, bathrooms, whole-home remodels, additions, and ADUs, our expert team guides you from concept to completion with creativity, clear communication, and proven craftsmanship. We combine thoughtful design, 3D visualization, and a seamless process to deliver beautiful, functional results—making your remodeling journey stress-free and exciting. Trusted throughout the community, we’re proud to be your friend in the remodeling business. Let’s bring your dream home to life.
With over 30 years of experience, Perfect Star Heating, Cooling and Electrical is proud to be a truly locally owned and operated family business serving Alameda & Contra Costa County. We specialize in Furnace/Heating, Air Conditioning, and Ductless Mini-Split installation, along with repair and maintenance for Central HVAC systems. Our services also include Ductwork, Indoor Air Quality solutions, and now Electrical Repair & Installation, as well as Solar Installation.
We started with an aim to make sure we will shine in the Bay Area and beat the prices from any jeweler. With over ten years in business, our expert staff and superior products will make you a lifetime customer. Serving all of your needs from our wide variety stock to our unparalleled custom work you will find a home with Highline Custom Jewelry.
A highly skilled PMU artist, Cosmetologist with over 20 years of medical experience. Nataliya combines artistry and scientific precision to deliver safe, beautiful results. Her expertise in anatomy, skin physiology, and sterile techniques ensures clients receive tailored enhancements, from eyebrow microblading to skin care.
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.
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.
with breast cancer, my neighbors rallied around us, bringing meals for weeks during chemo and surgery. They were incredible.”
Nicole is also grateful to the entire Northgate community for their support of her school in Bay Point. So many have reached out to make life better for her students. Two Northgate seniors chose to do their senior projects to help her students. Her son Luke collected sports equipment so the kids could have soccer balls, basketballs and baseball mitts. Her friend Heather goes weekly to her class to volunteer and read one-on-one with students. Another Northgate student named Sophie collected school supplies and books. And Nicole’s class was chosen by the non-profit HerSTEM to receive lessons in science by yet another Northgate student who started HerSTEM, Angie. In addition, Nicole’s friends at M’Powered Bootcamp (a fitness group) adopted a family from her school at Christmas and collected hundreds of toys to donate to the kids in Bay Point. Nicole reflects, “It has been truly remarkable to be the recipient of so much goodness and generosity.”
The Steinert family includes three kids. Luke is beginning his 2nd year at Santa Barbara City College where he plays volleyball. He played for Northgate High School and graduated in 2024. For his last year, his dad joined the coaching staff. The Broncos went on to win NCS that year, and Luke was honored as MVP of the league. Nicole shared a quote from one the player’s parents Alacia Broussard, “Todd came to Northgate thinking he was going to be able to coach his son in a sport he loves. Not only did he do that, but he also gained the respect, admiration and a few more “sons”, as he has become an important piece of the Northgate coaching staff!”
Steinert Family:
Finding a community in Northgate Meet the
By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991; Photos provided by the Steinert Family
Todd and Nicole met while in college at BYU; coincidentally, they were both from California. Although they were young, they jumped in, got married quickly, and as Nicole reflects, “Honestly, we just got lucky with each other.”
Todd grew up in Orange County; after graduating from BYU with a degree in economics he earned his MBA from UC Irvine. He is now working with Stacy Witbeck as their CFO. Nicole grew up in the Bay Area and attended six different elementary schools. Todd says, “This is probably why she has such a big heart for kids going through divorce and other hardships and has the philosophy of ‘Be the person you needed when you were a kid.’” It’s probably also the reason Nicole pursued a career in teaching and chose to work at a Title 1 school in Bay Point. Nicole says, “I knew I wanted to be a teacher at a very young age. I find teaching to be deeply rewarding, although also very challenging.”
The Steinerts moved to the Northgate neighborhood in 2020 from Southern California for Todd’s work. Nicole adds, “We bought our house sight-unseen right when the world was shutting down for the pandemic. We settled on the Northgate neighborhood because of the great schools, quiet suburban life, trails, kids, and friendly neighbors. I insisted on a street with lots of kids…We love where we live…We could not ask for better neighbors and schools.” They truly found a community on Cafeto Drive. A favorite tradition is all the neighbors shutting down the street to cars on Halloween to allow hundreds of families to come in costume and enjoy a safe holiday. Nicole adds, “We have a great mix of people; everyone looks out for each other. This past year when I was diagnosed
Maddox, 16, is a junior at Northgate HS. He enjoys spending time with friends, watching movies, riding his bike, and wrestling. He is on the Northgate wrestling team, and Nicole says, “The team is super inclusive and supportive…We could not have picked a better coaching staff and group of kids for Maddox…It’s been a game changer for him.”
Danica, 12, is the performer in the family. Her acting, singing and dancing began with Curtains Up at Walnut Acres Elementary School. She is now living her best theater life at Starlight Performing Arts. In the past year she has performed in Elf the Musical, Alice in Wonderland, and The Lightning Thief, as well as in many competitions for both theater and dance.
“Our happiest place,” adds Nicole, “is watching our kids doing their activities and sports. They work really hard and push themselves to be the best they can be.”
The Steinert family is also very committed to raising awareness and fundraising for the Children’s Tumor Foundation. Maddox was born with NF1, a condition that causes tumors to grow throughout the body. In the 12 years since his diagnosis, there have been major advancements in the field of NF, including new drugs, thanks to fundraising through events like the Undie Run in San Francisco. “It’s a ridiculous and funny race that we’ve been doing for about 10 years. We are super grateful to friends and family who come out to run alongside us in their undies each February.” This past year their team took Top Fundraising Team, raising just under $10k for the foundation.
Willow is the family’s 8-yearold white English Labrador. You can find her sitting in the window watching the neighborhood with her
Nicole reflects on their five years in Walnut Creek. “We always want to be surrounded by people who care about each other… Life is about touching lives and making a difference wherever you go. We are grateful to be in community where so many people do this naturally, every day.”
Now is the Time to Remodel
By Gordon Reese, Gordon Reese Design Build, Resident since 2008
Remodel Now, Enjoy for Years: Why Waiting May Cost You More
In today’s world, timing is everything—especially when it comes to remodeling your home. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your kitchen, modernizing a bathroom, or building an ADU, you may be wondering whether now is the right time to move forward.
The reality? Waiting often costs more than acting now. Material prices continue to rise, skilled labor is in high demand, and most importantly, you lose time in a space that doesn’t support the way you live. While economic uncertainty may give some homeowners pause, working with the right team can turn remodeling into a rewarding investment rather than a stressful gamble.
Your Home Should Work for You—Now
When your home no longer meets your needs, every day can feel a bit more frustrating than the last. Maybe you’ve outgrown your kitchen layout, your bathroom lacks comfort, or your living space isn’t adaptable to your family’s changing lifestyle.
These frustrations aren’t just inconveniences—they affect your quality of life. Remodeling offers more than just future resale value—it gives you a better way to live right now. A well-designed remodel supports the way your family cooks, relaxes, entertains, and connects.
Why Remodeling Costs Are Likely to Increase
Across the industry, costs for materials, fixtures, and skilled labor have steadily increased—and experts suggest that trend is likely to continue. Postponing a remodel often means paying more later for the same project.
Worse still, waiting often comes with hidden costs: energy inefficiency, missed opportunities for enjoyment, and the ongoing stress of living in a space that doesn’t serve you well. When you remodel now, you take control—locking in pricing, avoiding delays, and getting more longterm value from your home.
Not All Design-Build Firms Are Created Equal
Design-build is widely recognized as one of the most efficient and collaborative ways to remodel—but homeowners should know that not all design-build firms offer the same experience or outcomes.
At Gordon Reese Design Build, we’ve spent over 41 years perfecting a process that prioritizes two critical things: price certainty and the elimination of surprises.
Our approach begins with establishing accurate investment ranges early on, so your design evolves within a realistic budget. You’re not left guessing or falling in love with plans that are far outside what you’re willing to spend. That means fewer change orders, no sticker shock, and a smoother experience from start to finish.
But price certainty is just the beginning. Our process also builds in detailed scopes of work, transparent communication, and 3D design modeling—giving you the clarity and confidence you need to move forward without second-guessing your decisions. We eliminate the uncertainty that so often derails remodels.
Invest in Today—Enjoy for Years to Come
Remodeling is about more than return on investment. It’s about comfort, enjoyment, and creating a home that supports your life—day in and day out. Whether you’re preparing for the future or simply want a more beautiful space now, remodeling can be one of the most rewarding decisions you make.
From energy-efficient upgrades and thoughtful layouts to durable materials that stand the test of time, remodeling with the right team ensures you’ll enjoy the benefits for years to come.
At Gordon Reese Design Build, we guide Northgate homeowners through a proven design-build process that delivers peace of mind at every step. With price certainty, thoughtful planning, and no surprises, we help you remodel with confidence and clarity. Ready to create the home you’ve been waiting for? Visit gordonreese.com to learn more or schedule a consultation today.
Northgate Alumnus Opens a New Dance Studio in the Shadelands
By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991
A new dance studio in the Shadelands Sports Mall promises to offer a different dance experience to kids, pre-professionals, and adults alike.
It is the newest passion project of Alex Blitstein, a Northgate alumnus who has had a successful career as a professional dancer, choreographer, teacher, and studio owner. “I want to offer a place where kids are seen, valued and heard, a place where they can dance for the joy of it,” says Blitstein. “We mentor kids and encourage their passion.” The Dance House Walnut Creek is a non-competitive program. “We want kids to value the learning and the love of performing arts.”
The Dance House Walnut Creek opened last month and will offer over 30 classes per week in all styles of dance including ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, contemporary and more. Blitstein has proven his model works for both the recreational dancer and those who want to pursue a career in dance; he’s owned The Dance House Napa Valley, a successful business in Napa, for seven years. Since opening the Napa location in 2018 he has had over 20 graduating seniors get accepted into college dance programs of their choice, and as Blitstein adds, “without ever stepping on a competition stage.” The location in Napa Valley recently expanded and has both a thriving recreational program as well as a pre-professional training program.
added Blitstein. His brother has also returned to the neighborhood and is raising his two kids here.
Blitstein is also a successful entrepreneur. He developed a product called The Dance Map, a training tool to help kids of all abilities learn to dance. The Dance Map makes dance accessible to all kids and is now being used in Napa Unified School District as well as dance studios, gymnastics gyms, physical therapy offices, preschools and more, both nationally and internationally.
Welcome home Alex! It will be exciting to see the new opportunities available to our community at The Dance House Walnut Creek, where, as Blitstein says, “a house becomes a home when you can dance, dream and discover in it.”
Blitstein himself started dancing in high school, after a childhood focused on gymnastics. At age 3 he started gymnastics at Encore and grew into an accomplished gymnast. Growing up in The Woodlands neighborhood, he attended Valle Verde and Foothill and graduated from Northgate High School in 2006. It was Northgate’s dance program that sparked his interest in dance. Those years of dancing at school and at a local studio made a big impression on him. Even as a high school student, he saw the emphasis put on dancing to win instead of dancing for the love of it. He graduated from San Diego State with a degree in dance and science followed by decades of professional dancing (with Jennifer Lopez, The Disney Channel, America’s Got Talent, and many others as well as many national television ads). He teaches and choreographs all over the world while balancing his time with his own students at his studio locations.
“I really wanted to return to this community that I love so much. It’s a magical place. My best friends are friends I made here in this neighborhood,”
Blitstein at age 3 at Encore Gymnastics
Natural. Timeless. Unforgettable.
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Joybound Looking for Love
By Chelsea Blackburn, Joybound Public Relations Manager
Here
CATS: DOGS:
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
Chili
Stevie
Modena
Patsy
Brewer
Louie
Real Estate Listings in Northgate
$4,895,000 $3,195,000
$2,950,000
$2,750,000
Pending Listings
$1,650,000
$1,599,000
Nine Must-Try Restaurants in Walnut Creek
By Lisa Crossett, Resident since 2001
Walnut Creek may be known for its upscale shopping and charming downtown, but its vibrant restaurant scene is a true gem for food lovers. From authentic Asian flavors to elevated European fare and creative Californian cuisine, this city offers a rich culinary experience. Here’s a roundup of 9 must-visit restaurants that showcase the best of Walnut Creek’s vibrant food scene.
Burma 2 brings the rich, bold flavors of Burmese cuisine to downtown Walnut Creek in a modern, inviting space. Their tea leaf salad—a crunchy, tangy mix of fermented tea leaves, nuts, and beans—is a standout, and the coconut chicken noodle soup (ohn no khao swe) is comfort in a bowl. The restaurant seamlessly blends traditional Burmese recipes with fresh California ingredients.
Perfect for a special night out or a leisurely weekend lunch, Va de Vi is a long-standing favorite offering an eclectic small-plate menu inspired by global flavors. The outdoor patio under twinkling lights adds a romantic ambiance. Must-tries include the garlic fries, duck confit, and their seasonal soup shooters. Their wine list is expansive and thoughtfully curated to pair beautifully with the menu.
Benvenuti is a newer addition to Walnut Creek, but it has quickly gained a loyal following with its warm hospitality and refined take on Italian classics. The pasta is handmade, the sauces are rich, and the wine list is solid. The espresso martini is the best one I have ever had. Their cacio e pepe particularly memorable. It’s the kind of place where every dish feels both rustic and elegant.
If you’re craving vibrant Spanish flavors, Teleferic Barcelona delivers with flair. This energetic tapas bar brings a true Barcelona vibe, complete with hanging hams, an open kitchen, and rooftop dining. Tapas highlights include the gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp) and jamón ibérico croquettes, while the patatas bravas is a showstopper. Don’t skip the sangria or Spanish gin & tonics.
Montesacro is a Roman style pinseria
alternative to traditional pizza. Their pinsa dough is fermented for 72 hours, creating an airy, digestible base topped with creative ingredients. Try the Maranella with sausage and broccolini or the Trastevere with burrata and prosciutto. With industrial-chic decor and attentive service, it’s great for both date nights and group gatherings.
Lita brings a vibrant, upscale Caribbean-Latin fusion experience to downtown Walnut Creek, and it’s quickly become one of the city’s most stylish dining destinations. The menu is bold and creative, featuring standout dishes like the jerk-marinated short ribs, empanada, and the salt cod fritters. Their craft cocktails, especially the rum-based creations, are expertly balanced and refreshing—perfect for sipping on their sunny patio.
Located in a beautifully restored historic building, Sasa offers an inventive Japanese-inspired tapas menu with local and seasonal ingredients. The seasonal tempura, tuna duck buns, and miso-glazed black cod are highlights, and the cocktail list offers refreshing pairings. The ambiance is sleek and modern, perfect for date night or a trendy night out.
Limon delivers vibrant Peruvian cuisine in a casual-chic setting. Their famous Rotisserie chicken is perfectly seasoned and juicy, served with flavorful sides like yuca fries and aji sauces. The cauliflower picante and lomo saltado are bold and satisfying. Great for families and groups, the energy is always upbeat and friendly.
For casual eats with big flavor, Dumpling Hours is a hidden treasure. This cozy spot specializes in handmade Chinese dumplings and noodles that rival those in the Bay Area’s more famous foodie neighborhoods. The xiao long bao (soup dumplings) are expertly crafted, and the spicy wontons are addictive. A must-visit for comfort food lovers on the go.
Whether you’re exploring international cuisines, searching for a charming patio, or indulging in something new, Walnut Creek’s restaurant scene offers something for every palate. These nine spots prove that dining in this East Bay city is anything but ordinary.
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)
Dumpling Hours
Wine and fries make the perfect pairing at Va de Vi
LEFT: Pizza and pasta are the stars at MonteSacro
Middle Eastern Meatballs (Kofta)
By Shiva Keeney, Resident since 2024
These Kofta Meatballs are a staple in our home. My mom was born in Iran, and the warm spices in this dish always bring me back to the Persian cooking I grew up with. I’m not usually a huge fan of lamb, but the combination of lamb and beef in these meatballs is just right— it adds depth without being overpowering. Best of all, everyone who’s tried them has loved them!
For the veggies, I used zucchini, onion, and tomato from the Diablo (Shadelands) Farmers Market. But honestly, the real star of this meal— and the reason we make these meatballs so often—is the tzatziki from a stand at the market called Frenchy. They specialize in kefir-based yogurts, and their tzatziki (labeled “cucumber yogurt”) is incredible. There’s even a spicy version! For this dish, I loosen the yogurt with a bit of extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and water to create the perfect sauce. We buy it every week—sometimes I just eat it as a dip straight from the container.
We usually serve these with simple basmati rice, but tonight I picked up rice from The Kebab Shop—and it paired beautifully. And if it’s too warm to turn on the oven, these meatballs cook beautifully on the BBQ too. Just grill them over medium heat until fully cooked, and you’ve got a delicious summer version of this family favorite.
Serves: ~6 | Prep Time: 20 min | Cook Time: 25 min | Total Time: ~45 min
INGREDIENTS
Meat & Herbs
• 1 lb ground lamb
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup loosely packed parsley, roughly chopped
Spices & Seasonings
• 1½ tsp salt
• 2 tsp black pepper
• 2 Tbsp ground cumin
• 1 Tbsp ground coriander
Binders
• 8–12 fresh mint leaves
• 1 medium onion, grated (moist but not dripping)
• 1 Tbsp granulated garlic
• 2 pinches ground nutmeg
• 1 pinch ground turmeric
• 1 tsp ground sumac
• ½ cup breadcrumbs • 1 egg
For Cooking
• 1 Tbsp neutral oil (e.g. avocado or vegetable oil)
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
2. Prepare Herbs:
Add parsley and mint leaves to a food processor and pulse until finely minced. Set aside.
3. Grate Onion:
Grate the onion into a bowl lined with cheesecloth. Lightly strain some of the onion juice—just enough so the onion remains moist but not watery. You can save the juice for later use (it’s packed with nutrients!).
4. Mix the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, ground beef, chopped herbs, grated onion, all spices, and breadcrumbs. Gently mix by hand. Add the egg and continue mixing just until fully combined—avoid overworking to keep the meatballs tender.
5. Shape & Sear:
Roll the mixture into 2-inch meatballs. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the meatballs in batches, about 2 minutes per side, until browned (they don’t need to be cooked through).
6. Bake:
Transfer seared meatballs to the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (or up to 170°F for well-done).
To Serve
Serve warm with:
• Steamed basmati or jasmine rice
• Tzatziki or tahini sauce
• Seared or roasted vegetables (zucchini, red onion, bell peppers)
Optional: Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice or a dusting of extra sumac for brightness.
Come out to watch our Northgate Football Team!
Submitted
by Zack Torrey
Local Sports
Aquanuts Compete in Croatia, the U.S. Junior Olympics & the 2025 World Aquatic Championships
By Heather Olson
Walnut Creek, CA – The Walnut Creek Aquanuts have continued their legacy of excellence this month, competing in Croatia, the U.S., and ultimately the global stage in Singapore at the Aquatic World Championships next week.
At the 24th Primorje Cup in June, the Aquanuts sent one Youth team and one Junior team to compete in Rijeka, Croatia. The Juniors won one gold medal in the free team event as well as four silver medals. The Aquanut Juniors placed just behind the Croatian National Team taking silver in tech solo (Marlo Goldhoff of Castro Valley), another silver in the technical duet where Goldhoff paired with Vivian Wu of Alamo, and a silver in the acrobatic event and the fourth silver medal in the technical team event.
WCA’s Youth team entered two duets, a solo, team and combo in the Primorje Cup. Juliet Moore and Emily Yuan (both of Walnut Creek) topped the podium, winning gold in duet and Scarlett Krulj of Walnut Creek paired with Summer Kim of Lafayette to place nineteenth in duet. Chloe Nicholas of Walnut Creek took a bronze medal in the solo event and WCA took two more gold medals in both the team and combo events. “It is a such a great opportunity for our Aquanut swimmers to experience an international event through a club option like this. Very proud of our team!” (WCA Youth Coach Kristen Smidstra)
Just after the Primorje Cup, the Aquanuts sent two different Youth and 12 and under teams to the U.S. Junior Olympics in Arlington, Texas. WCA started the meet off by winning a gold medal in the 12 and under duet category. Katerina Qualk of Concord and Kira Polyulya of San Ramon had a clean swim and topped the podium over eleven points ahead of any other competitor. In the 12u figure category WCA had two athletes place in the top ten in the country with Anya Lam of Lafayette placing eighth and Polyulya taking tenth. Team and combo
2025 Senior National Team
Performing at Clarke Swim Center (Karen Xue on lift)
were tougher events for the 12u Aquanuts, where they missed final qualification in both events.
In the Youth category the Aquanuts entered the combo and team events placing fourth and seventh respectively in the country. In the Junior category, the Aquanuts entered one swimmer in the technical solo event where Elizabeth Smerechuk of Walnut Creek placed tenth.
FINA World Aquatics Championships –Singapore (July 12–July 27, 2025)
In addition, this week the Aquanuts will be on the world stage. Representing Team USA are Morgan Woelfel of Concord, Karen Xue of Alamo and Ghizal Akbar of Walnut Creek. The U.S. team is led by WCA’s Tammy McGregor (Head Coach, 2x Olympian and 2008 U.S. Olympic Head Coach). Woelfel will be part of the Acrobatic routine while Xue and Akbar will swim as part of the free and technical team rosters. In addition, Akbar will pair with Olympic veteran, Jamie Czarkowski, to represent the U.S. in the duet events. Two additional Aquanuts are part of the Senior National Team as alternates: Emileen Moore of Walnut Creek and Ana Martinez originally from Mexico and Walnut Creek. The U.S. is hoping for podium finishes in all events after taking a silver medal home from Paris in 2024.
About the Walnut Creek Aquanuts: Based in Walnut Creek, CA, the Aquanuts are a leading U.S. artistic swimming club. Their mission is to develop athletes from novice to elite, building both bodies and minds and instilling skills that will serve their swimmers throughout their lifetime.
