Life + Culture

Respite Inn

Article by Crystal Long | Photography by Gina B Photography Caring for a loved one is one of the greatest gifts we can give—but it’s also one of the hardest.  For families supporting adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities, the love is endless, but so are the responsibilities.  The daily routines, the medical appointments, the emotional energy—it can all take its toll. And just like anyone else, caregivers need rest, too. The need is far greater than most realize. According to...

Home + Design

Creating Space for Connection

A Kitchen Made for Gathering Article by Gordon Reese Design Build | Photography by Marilyn Cunningham Photography A client who came to  Gordon Reese Design Build  described their existing kitchen as a “bunker”—closed off, dark, and disconnected from the rest of the home. They dreamed of a space that would feel open, welcoming, and perfect for hosting family and friends during the holidays. The team turned that vision into a reality by adding about 200 square feet to their home, opening the...

Life + Culture

More Than Hair

A Stylist’s Story of Resilience, Risk-Taking, and Gratitude Article by Lindsey Hickman | Photography by Simone Rotman For Renée Ludlow, a hair stylist, makeup artist, and hair extension specialist at Salon Hanover, beauty has always been about more than what’s on the surface. It’s about creativity, connection, and the power of transformation. “I’ve always been a creative person at heart,” Ludlow says. “I started out studying photography at The Art Institute of Boston before realizing I needed...

Life + Culture

Community, Family, and Connection:

What Walnut Creek Businesses Are Thankful For Article by Walnut Creek City Lifestyle | Photography by Stock Photos In the spirit of thankfulness and appreciation, the Walnut Creek City Lifestyle team has compiled heartfelt gratitude wishes from some of our advertisers.  Each of them shares what truly brightens their world. From the warmth of community bonds to the unwavering support of colleagues and the love of family, these wishes beautifully illustrate the many facets of thankfulness.  ...

Arts + Culture

Walnut Creek's Jeff Ryan

The saxophonist and songwriter shares his journey and love for his hometown. Article by Ryan Phillips | Photography by David N. Sachs The sound of Chopin and Rachmaninov often filled Jeff Ryan’s Walnut Creek home, an introduction provided by his father, a concert pianist and teacher. While classical music was his earliest influence, Ryan found his calling in the soulful sound of jazz, launching a journey as a saxophonist and songwriter. Ryan was just 11 when he picked up the saxophone in his...

Life + Culture

Meet the Magic Makers

Walnut Creek on Ice marks 20 years of joy, tradition, and community spirit Article by Lindsey Hickman | Photography by Walnut Creek Downtown Association/ Craig Isaacs, BlueGoo Photography When the first skaters stepped onto a small rink in Civic Park in 2005, no one could have imagined how lasting the impact would be. Two decades later, Walnut Creek on Ice has become more than a seasonal attraction—it’s a tradition woven into the fabric of the city’s holiday season. For former Mayor Gary...

Fitness

Recipe with a Healthy Touch by Dr. Ari Katz

Roasted Marinated Chicken Thighs with Vegetables and Brown Rice Article and Photography by Dr. Ari Katz Ingredients For the Chicken and Vegetables: 6–8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks 2 large carrots, peeled and thickly sliced 1 large onion, cut into wedges 1 large tomato, cut into quarters 1 large head of garlic, halved crosswise  1 cup prunes 1 cup cooked chestnuts 2 cups cooked brown rice (added midway through roasting) ...

Home Services

Fall Maintenance Tips for Homeowners

Fall Home Checklist: Weatherproofing, Heating, and Yard Prep Made Easy Article by Rob Joyner | Photography by Stock Photo As we ease out of summer and head into the cooler months, it's the perfect time to give your home a little seasonal attention. Prepping early helps you avoid headaches later—like surprise leaks, chilly drafts, or frozen pipes. Here are five homeowner-friendly tips to help your home handle whatever fall and winter bring.    1. Stop Drafts Before They Start  Cold air has...

Life + Culture

Roman Tradition Meets America’s Passion for Dining

Fresh ingredients, authenticity, and passion fuel unforgettable meals at Montesacro Article by Lindsey Hickman | Photography by Emre Cakir Step inside Montesacro and you’re immediately transported—not just to another trendy restaurant, but to a corner of Rome that feels both timeless and alive. The air carries the warmth of fresh-baked pinsa , the Roman flatbread that’s lighter and crisper than pizza yet just as comforting. At the helm is Gianluca Legrottaglie, the man who introduced pinsa ...

Health + Wellness

The Four Pillars of Health

Dr. Ari Katz’s Simple Approach to Lasting Wellness Article by Ryan Phillips | Photography by Simone Rotman Ari Katz, M.D., isn't your average doctor. When he’s not treating patients at Banner Peak Health, you'll probably find him doing something active, like camping with his three young boys, jamming on the drums, or patiently persuading a picky kid that broccoli isn’t the enemy. For Katz, nutrition isn’t just part of leading a healthy lifestyle. It comes first and is a non-negotiable...