Meet the Camacho Family: Building a Legacy of Community and Connection Resident Feature
Joybound – Looking for Love Pet Corner
Real Estate Stats
Breaking Free from Emotional Eating: A Path to Food Freedom Expert Contributor
Mondo Llama at Target: Your New Go-To Craft Brand! Crafts Corner
Supercars & Shish Kabobs Cars and Coffee
Niner’s News Local Sports
Making Waves: HOX Swim Team Welcomes New Board and Prepares for an Exciting Season Ahead
New Gourmet Toast and Juice Bar in Downtown Danville: Toastique Community Corner
Pinehurst The Centennial Course #6 Golf Destinations
Chateau Montelena: Renown Napa TreasureTreasure Wine, Food, Golf & Fun
Vegetarian Roasted Roots In the Kitchen
Join Us as We Celebrate 10 Years
Frozen dawn: A January Sunrise Whispers of a New Year… Life through a Lens
New Year, New Shine: Essential Tips for Maintaining Your Jewelr7 Expert Contributor
Jo Peek
Publication Team
Publisher: Jo Peek, Blackhawk Resident since 2014
Content Coordinator: Megan Scott Blackhawk Resident since 2010
Designer: Meagan Patry
Contributing Photographer: Kim Lind Photography
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: mscott@bestversionmedia.com.
Happy New Year! It seems like just yesterday we were barreling into the holiday season and now…another year is upon us. We hope 2025 is an incredible year for all our Blackhawk neighbors! This year, our neighborhood magazine celebrates it’s 10-year-anniversary. We will be hosting a special celebration Monday, March 3, at Blue Sakana Blackhawk.
This month we are introducing you to the Camacho Family. They have been residents of Blackhawk for nearly five years, and their journey to this neighborhood is one of adventure, faith, and deep family values.
On behalf of all of us on the Blackhawk Living Magazine team, we want to wish you and yours a very Happy New Year!
Megan Scott
Resident since 2010
Blackhawk Living Magazine is 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 mscott@bestversionmedia.com.
Expert Contributors
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Jo Peek at jpeek@bestversionmedia.com.
John Gardner, CFP®, CPM® 888-985-(PLAN) jg@blackhawkwealthadvisors.com blackhawkwealthadvisors.com
Insurance
Roger Fernando State Farm Roger Fernando Agency 925-244-1700 roger@rogerfernando.com
Jewelry, Diamonds & Timepieces
Steve Padis
Steve Padis Jewelry info@padisjewelry.com www.padisjewelry.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.
The Pleasanton Automall is a luxury automotive dealership housing the Acura and Lexus dealerships located in Pleasanton, CA. In addition to our flagships, we also carry a wide selection of quality pre-owned vehicles. We pride ourselves in offering a World Class experience to all of our guests. Visit us today or contact us online to experience the Pleasanton difference.
Dr. Lippman has been in practice in the Tri-Valley since 2009. His passion is to help eradicate back pain and allow people to live their lives to the fullest. He is married and the father of two very good looking kids. When not cracking backs, he can be found running, hiking or biking with his kids, or enjoying a ballgame in the sun.
Blackhawk Plastic Surgery has been offering their patients the highest quality cosmetic treatments in the Blackhawk area for more than 15 years. Now they are thrilled to introduce the Blackhawk Migraine Clinic led by migraine specialist, Alicia Choquette. Alicia brings over 5 years of migraine expertise to the Blackhawk Migraine Clinic and looks forward to helping patients live a better quality of life migraine free.
Kristin Jones is owner and CEO of Kristin Jones Coaching, a life coaching service that specializes in empowering women to conquer their emotional eating. She offers personalized support and a safe space for clients to explore their relationship with food, and themselves. Through gentle guidance, practical tools, and insightful strategies, she helps untangle the roots of their struggles, fostering healing and self-acceptance. Discover the transformative power of a balanced, joyful relationship with food and yourself.
With 40 years as an investment advisor, John Gardner has gained valuable investment insight, experience, and knowledge. Blackhawk Wealth Advisors has the certifications and qualifications you can trust to successfully guide you with your financial goals. We provide strategic investment solutions to high new worth individuals to help them grow and preserve their wealth.”
Roger Fernando has been a State Farm Agent for 30 years, starting his insurance agency in 1988. Roger and his team are fully licensed. We take pride in giving personal, exceptional service, in talking and listening to our clients about their insurance needs. Our mission has always been to consult with customers as their insurance needs change, protect their insurance for the risks of everyday life and help recover from the unexpected loss.
Steve and Judy Padis own and operate Padis Jewelry, which has four locations in the San Francisco Bay Area. They founded the company in 1974 and are proud to have earned a reputation as one of the finest jewelers in San Francisco, serving generations of clients for their most precious moments in life, from engagement to anniversary to milestone gifts. Padis Jewelry maintains top-tier relationships with the most sought-after designers including Tacori, Forevermark, Verragio, Breitling, Tag Heuer, and Roberto Coin. As members of the American Gem Society, Padis is among the top 5% of jewelers across the country.
Expert Contributors
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Jo Peek at jpeek@bestversionmedia.com.
California Pacific Realty Zahid Jahania 510-757-1265 www.californiapacificrealty.com infocalpacrealty@gmail.com
Tax & Accounting
East Bay Accounting
Terra A Malcolm 925-421-2202 (office) 925-421-2203 (direct) terra@eastbayacct.com www.eastbayacct.com
Tree Service
Trex Donovan Buena Vista Tree Service 415-531-1247 ntdonovan@yahoo.com www.buenavistatree.com
Sushi
Blue Sakana Blackhawk JD Choi jd@bluesakanablackhawk.com 925-648-7838 bluesakanablackhawk.com
Professional lyric coloratura soprano, Elizabeth has extensive experience
Atlantis Pools Inc. is a family owned business that has been serving Contra Costa County for over 25 years. From pool repair, maintenance needs, remodels and updates, no job is too big or small for us. We take pride in the high quality service we give to each customer.
California Pacific Realty is a locally owned and operated full-service Real Estate firm. We specialize in buying, selling, and managing investment properties throughout the Bay area. Our mission is to offer unique turnkey solutions to our investors. We specialize in acquisition, sales, and property management throughout Oakland and the Alameda County area. Our local property management expertise helps owners improve their return on investment (ROI), and renters find their ideal rental home.
East Bay Accounting was established 5 years ago in Danville, California, and our partners have over 20 years of tax law experience. Continuous education on the newest legislation and pristine customer service is what we pride ourselves on. We provide high quality, uniquely tailored tax saving strategies that every American taxpayer deserves to have access to. We look forward to serving our Blackhawk community.
Buena Vista Tree Service is committed to preserving our urban forests and environment. They recycle 100% of our green waste into a reusable landscaping product. Trex safely and efficiently handles all types of tree emergencies 24 hours a day to eliminate tree risks to people and property and significantly reduce your liability exposure.
Blue Sakana has become the premier destination for Japanese food, offering the highest-quality fish and most original sushi rolls in the area. Our inviting atmosphere and friendly staff have quickly made Blue Sakana a neighborhood favorite. Blue Sakana at Blackhawk offers a full bar with artisanal, Asian-inspired cocktails, an eclectic beer selection and a great wine list. We specialize in sushi and Japanese dishes made with fresh ingredients, all at an accessible and affordable price.
Meet the
Camacho Family:
Building a Legacy of Community and Connection
By Megan Scott, Resident since 2010
In the heart of Blackhawk’s Quail Run neighborhood lives the Camacho family—a vibrant and inspiring part of our community. Ernesto and Paola Camacho, along with their two college-aged children, Sofia and Abraham, have been residents of Blackhawk for nearly five years, and their journey to this neighborhood is one of adventure, faith, and deep family values.
A Love Story Set Up by Sisters
Ernesto and Paola’s love story began thanks to their younger sisters, who conspired to set them up on a blind date. Although Paola initially hesitated— assuming Ernesto, a math enthusiast, might be “boring”—her perception quickly changed. Ernesto’s thoughtful and gentlemanly nature left an impression, and just two months later, they were officially dating. Their whirlwind romance led to a proposal four months later and marriage within eleven months of their first meeting. Now, 21 years later, they look back fondly on the serendipitous beginning orchestrated by their family.
From Mexico to Blackhawk: A Global Journey
Both Ernesto and Paola were born in Baja California, Mexico, and their shared journey has taken them across continents. After starting their family in San Diego, they moved to Denmark, envisioning a longterm stay in Europe. However, after two years, they decided to return to the United States, settling first in Cupertino and later finding their dream home in Blackhawk.
Their connection to Blackhawk began when their son, Abraham, took up tennis, prompting the family to join the club. Over time, they became deeply involved in the community, taking advantage of the neighborhood’s activities and enjoying the closeknit atmosphere. Today, they cherish the friendships they’ve formed and the sense of belonging they’ve found here.
Career Highlights and Creative Ventures
Ernesto, an electrical engineer, has built an impressive career in technology. Starting as a software consultant, he joined Nokia in 2004 and eventually moved to Google in 2011. Over the years, he has led major projects in Google Wallet, Crisis Response, Elections, and Search. Currently, he is a Senior Manager in Search Partner Engineering and Operations, where he continues to thrive in his innovative field.
Paola, with a degree in psychology, chose to focus on raising their children. Along with being stayat-home mom, she dedicated herself to coaching and mentoring women. Recently, she channeled her creativity into launching Corazón Femenino, a business specializing in custom denim jackets, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit.
Active Lives Rooted in Faith
The Camachos are active members of The Rock Church in Danville, where they are part of the leadership team for the marriage ministry. They are also passionate about fitness, with both Ernesto and Paola participating in classes at the Blackhawk gym. Ernesto’s love for mountain biking, hiking, and kayaking keeps him outdoors, while he’s also
Images courtesy of the Camacho Family
discovered a new favorite pastime in bocce ball, joining the local league.
A Growing Legacy
Sofia and Abraham, now in college, are following in their parents’ footsteps of ambition and curiosity. Sofia is a junior at Pace University in New York City, pursuing computational economics, while Abraham is a freshman at Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, studying engineering. The Camachos’ dog, Cali, a six-year-old Australian Labradoodle, completes the family with her playful and affectionate demeanor.
Building Traditions
As first-generation American citizens, the Camachos have embraced creating new traditions while honoring their roots. One cherished tradition is celebrating Thanksgiving, a holiday they didn’t grow up with but now hold dear. Each year, they also visit their hometown in Mexico for Christmas and recharge with a January trip to Hawaii.
A Message to Their Neighbors
“When you see us around, come say hi!” the Camachos warmly invite. Their love for their community is evident in their enthusiasm for Blackhawk’s events and activities. They are grateful for the friendships they’ve built and the welcoming environment they’ve found in this neighborhood.
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 mscott@bestversionmedia.com.
Joybound Looking for Love
By Chelsea Blackburn, Joybound
Here are some of our adorable animals looking for love:
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
Grand Zesty
Columbia Huck
Fry Chase
A Sampling of Homes Active in
Breaking Free from Emotional Eating: A Path to Food Freedom
By Kristin Jones
Emotional eating, a common struggle for many, often stems from unprocessed feelings that we turn to food to soothe. By understanding the root causes and implementing effective strategies, we can break free from this cycle and cultivate a healthier relationship with food.
The Root of the Problem: Many people fear emotions, often stemming from childhood experiences. This fear can lead to emotional eating, using food as a temporary escape from overwhelming feelings.
Reclaiming Your Power: To overcome emotional eating, we need to process emotions effectively. By practicing mindfulness techniques like deep breathing and visualization, we can calm our minds and bodies, reducing emotional cravings.
Beyond Basic Emotions: Recognizing the nuances of our emotions is key. Understanding how specific emotions, like anxiety or boredom, can trigger food cravings helps us address them more effectively.
A Step-by-Step Approach To effectively manage emotions, follow these steps:
1. Self-Reflection: Set aside time to reflect on your emotions. Journaling can be a helpful tool to explore your thoughts and feelings.
2. Mindful Breathing: Practice deep, slow breaths to calm your nervous system.
3. Visualization: Imagine a peaceful scene to soothe your mind and body.
4. Physical Sensations: Pay attention to the physical sensations associated with your emotions, such as tension in your shoulders or a knot in your stomach.
5. Challenge Negative Thoughts: Replace self-critical thoughts with positive affirmations.
Discovering what is causing your reliance on food and then addressing it with these strategies will allow you to embark on a journey toward a healthier relationship with food and a more fulfilling life. Remember, it’s not about perfection, but progress. Small steps can lead to significant changes.
Mondo Llama at Target: Your New Go-To Craft Brand!
By Michelle Barry, Resident since 2018
If you’re on the hunt for high-quality craft kits and supplies, look no further than Mondo Llama, now available at Target! This brand has everything you need to unleash your creativity, with a fantastic variety of DIY kits that are perfect for crafters of all ages and skill levels.
Some of their standout offerings include:
• Pressed Flower Resin Coaster DIY Kit
• Bath Bomb Making Kit
• Paint by Number Kits
• Wood Craft Kits
• Crochet Kits
• Embroidery Pouch Kit
• Clay Kits
• Finger Knitting Kits
• Needle Punch Kits
• String Art Kits
• Create your own Comic Book Kit
• And, of course, there are plenty of seasonal and holiday-themed kits to keep your crafting fresh all year long!
Crafting for All Ages and Levels
Whether you’re crafting with kids or diving into a new hobby yourself, Mondo Llama has something for everyone. What I love most is the brand’s focus on quality and variety. I’ve been wanting to try a needle punch project for ages but never knew where to start— until I discovered that Mondo Llama offers a complete kit with everything you need to get started!
Why I Love It
One of the best things about these kits is the convenience. Having
all the supplies included means you can jump right into your project without hunting down individual materials. Plus, it’s a great way to test out a new craft without making a big investment. If you end up loving it, you’re all set. And if not? No big deal, because you’ve only spent a small amount on the kit.
So, next time you’re at Target, make sure to check out the Mondo Llama section. You’ll be amazed at the options, and you might just discover your next favorite craft.
Happy crafting!
Michelle Find me on Instagram at #bhlmcrafts
Supercars & Shish Kabobs
By Celeste Altus
People with good taste showed up Sunday, December 8 in San Ramon, as Shish Grill, a Lebanese restaurant, hosted a car show with some beautiful exotics and supercars.
The show had easily half a dozen Lamborghinis, a few Ferraris, multiple BMWs, Porsches, a McLaren and even a Tesla Cybertruck thrown in the mix. Colorful wraps were on display on some of the models and itasha as well. This is not the first Kars & Kabobs show the Grill has put on. There have been a few throughout the past year, including one in August and an Elite Cars meetup in April.
Shish Grill offers authentic Greek and Mediterranean food in San Ramon and prepares fresh food each day. They mix their own spices and offer a taste tour of Lebanon whenever the mood strikes.
Lambo GTO
Lambo Aventador
Celeste Altus is a freelance writer and content marketer specializing in technology, retail and finance. She lives in Danville, and keeps a car account on Instagram called @Cars_of_Danville.
Double BMW
Red Ferrari
2024 NOTABLE BLACKHAWK SALES
81 Eagle Ridge Place, Blackhawk
SOLD | $10,800,000 | behringestateblackhawk.com
Represented Seller & Buyer
4350 Quail Run Lane, Blackhawk
SOLD | $4,280,000 | 4350quailrunln.com
Represented Seller
3683 Deer Trail Drive, Blackhawk
SOLD | $2,550,000 | 3683deertraildr.com
Represented Seller
521 Buttonwood Drive, Blackhawk
SOLD | $1,989,800 | 521buttonwooddr.com
Represented Seller
4456 Deer Ridge Road, Blackhawk
SOLD | $5,650,000 | 4456deerridgerd.com
Represented Seller
5033 Blackhawk Drive, Blackhawk
SOLD | $2,789,000 | 5033blackhawkdr.com
Represented Seller & Buyer
3061 Live Oak Court, Blackhawk
SOLD | $2,300,000 | 3061liveoakct.com
Represented Seller
375 S Eagle Nest Lane, Blackhawk
SOLD | $1,782,500 | 375seaglenestln.com
Represented Seller & Buyer
Niner’s News
By Fran Davis
The Grinch, our own darling Carol Gray, left her home, which is located north of the dreaded Falls hole #2, and arrived where the warmhearted Niners had gathered for their annual Christmas awards luncheon. She came to announce the winners who were voted upon by the Who’s of Blackhawk. At the end of the day, the Grinch thought that maybe Christmas doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas perhaps means a little bit more. That golf is more than just a game, or simple score, that it’s lessons learned and friendships made.
Many thanks to our amazing Tournament Chair, Helen Tarantino along with her committee of Shelley Foster, Leslie Sprague, Wendy Echsner, Annette Costello, Leigh Bultman and Carol Gray who made the Christmas luncheon a fabulous day for all of us.
ESPN Award - A Niner who had a really good golf shot during 2024 - Jeanie Egan
PIG Award (Perseverance in Golf) - A Niner who is working hard to improve her game - Wendy Eschner
BAG Award (Best All Around Gal) - A Niner who spends her time making things better for us - Fran Davis
Golden Goose Award - A Niner who had a funny golf shot or incident that was really funny - Sandy Davis, Linda McColgan and Rita Renner
Niner’s Triple Crown Champion - Leigh Bultman
Triple Crown 1st Flight - Dale Muth
Triple Crown 2nd Flight - Wendy Echsner
Triple Crown 3rd Flight - Fran Davis
Charm Day Champion - Mary Porteous
Low Putts (3-way tie) 14 - Leigh Bultman, Fran Davis & Laura Gross
Most Improved (Played at least 20 times with the Niner’s) - Wendy Echsner
JANUARY CALENDAR
January 2 - Lakes Back
January 9 - Falls Front
January 16 - Charm Day - Lakes Front
January 23 - Board
Meeting - Falls Back
January 30 - Lakes Front
A warm welcome to our newest member, Annette Whiting! If you are new to golf, returning to regular play, or looking to golf with a great group of ladies, check us out! Contact our membership chair, Maureen Pereira at Mppnyc@hotmail.com
Making Waves: HOX Swim Team Welcomes New Board and Prepares for an Exciting Season Ahead
By Stacie Mihalik
The weather may be cool, but the Blackhawk Swim Team (HOX) is just warming up! We want to give a warm welcome to the new and returning HOX Executive Board members. They are already working hard to set summer meet and event dates, design apparel and much, much more!
HOX Executive Board
President: Kristen Heiden
Treasurer: Jerry Morgan
Secretary: Kim Tompkins
Swim Operations: Scott Slyfield
Computers: Elizabeth Yoo
Fun Operations: Colleen Cooley
Meet Director/VSA Rep: Sarah Alling
HOX Head Coach: Sean Quackenbush
We also want to give a shoutout to our new and returning Committee Chairs for the season. They’ll be making sure everything runs smoothly–and keeping the fun going strong.
HOX Committee Chairs
Fundraising: Monica Ma
Marketing: Stacie Mihalik
VSA Representative: Tammy Webb
Apparel: Nicole Field
Fun Chairs: Jeannette Scott, Laura Kwon, Elizabeth Hodson and Tasha Krukrubo
Mini-HOX Liaison: Aubrey Buck
New Family Liaison: Neelam Ahuja
Awards: Kamile Lim
As the new year begins, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about the upcoming swim season. Before the summer fun kicks off, HOX holds its Spring Clinic in March, open to all returning and new swimmers of all ages. After a winter away from the pool, this clinic offers a valuable opportunity to refresh the fundamentals for returning swimmers and for those continuing on to summer swim team. This is excellent preparation for the upcoming season. Over the course of four weeks in March, swim coaches including award-winning HOX Head Coach Sean Quackenbush, guide new and returning swimmers through the techniques for all competitive strokes, as well as starts, relay exchanges, transitions, and turns.
Swimmers will also explore various training methods and the goals behind each technique. They will learn how to monitor and interpret their heart rates during training—an essential skill for building endurance. Spring Clinic is an excellent opportunity to work on stroke technique, gain fitness and prepare for the summer program, making it ideal for swimmers of all levels. It’s also a wonderful chance for families new to HOX or considering HOX to get acquainted with the community before the summer season practice begins in April.
The summer season starts with a Kick Off party event on Sunday, March 16th in the Lakeside Ballroom. Have you ever wondered what HOX is all about? Everyone is welcome to discover what the year has in store and learn about the HOX theme -- a beloved tradition that makes HOX unique. Summer swim is packed with excitement, featuring regular practices to build skills and confidence, competitive meets to showcase improvement, and a variety of social events to strengthen team bonds. Registration for both spring and summer swim programs is NOW OPEN. To register, visit www.hoxswim.com or reach out to Coach Sean directly at seanq@blackhawkcc.org.
NEW GOURMET TOAST AND JUICE BAR IN DOWNTOWN DANVILLE: Toastique
By Megan Scott
Toastique, the vibrant, gourmet toast, and juice café has recently opened in Danville. Located at 350 Railroad Ave, Toastique offers gourmet toast creations, smoothie bowls, cold-pressed juices, espresso, coffee, cocktails and grab-and-go options.
Long-time friends, Linh Jee and Sophia Cheng, both Bay Area natives, have opened the business together. The duo met while at San Francisco State. They began to talk about opportunities that they could do together, which led them to Toastique.
“During COVID, Linh and I would go on weekly hikes and brainstorm ideas for businesses that we could open together,” said Sophia Cheng, co-franchisee of Toastique Danville. “Through social media and in searching for franchise opportunities, I found Toastique and loved the simple menu and the elevated presentation of every dish. Not long after, I brought the idea to Linh and we both agreed that Toastique would be the perfect fit for us and for downtown Danville!”
“Danville is a known destination for the neighboring communities as a place to go for a weekend getaway, high-quality restaurant offerings and, while the town is quaint and charming, there is always something going on and we wanted to be in the center of it all,” added Linh Jee, co-franchisee of Toastique Danville. “Toastique’s menu complements the atmosphere in the area, and we couldn’t have found a more prime location to introduce the healthy menu to the community. We’re confident that we’ll soon become a hotspot for neighborhood locals and as a weekend destination!”
Highlights of the menu include the Avocado Smash Toast (avocado
with watermelon radish, marinated tomatoes, chili oil, microgreens on multigrain toast) and the PB Crunch Toast (honey roasted peanut butter, bananas, strawberries, blueberries, berry jam, granola, peanuts, honey drizzle and mint on walnut-raisin toast). Guests can also enjoy a variety of bowls such as the DragonBerry Bowl (pitaya, mango, strawberry, agave and coconut water topped with strawberry, kiwi, goji berry, coconut, granola and honey drizzle). Toastique is also known for their freshly blended smoothies, such as the Green Machine Smoothie (banana, pineapple, mango, spinach, kale, hemp seeds, flax seeds, lime, and coconut water), full coffee bar with Iced Mocha, Macchiato, Nitro Cold Brew and more and iced collagen lattes, including the Blueberry Lavender Lemon Latte (vital proteins blueberry lavender lemon collagen, blueberries, and almond milk). The duo will also be serving a cocktail menu as well.
The Danville location will be open from 7am-5pm Monday through Sunday. To stay up to date with Toastique news and announcements, visit the website at toastique.com/danville, follow the brand on Instagram @toastique, on Facebook at @toastiquedanville.
Pinehurst The Centennial Course #6
By Chuck Fox, Owner, Quintessential Golf, Resident since 2012
Pinehurst
No. 6 is one of nine courses at Pinehurst Resort, a historic golf resort anchored by the main lodge - the Carolina Hotel. Designed from 1898 to 1961, the first five courses surround the main golf club. No. 2 is the most well-known course, designed by Donald Ross in 1898 with a history of hosting major championships including the US Men’s and US Women’s Open.
However, the other eight courses are challenging but more playable and much lower priced. We played the four modern courses, No. 6, No. 7, No. 8 and No. 9, originally built from 1979-1996 in separate locations up to four miles from the Clubhouse.
Pinehurst No. 6 is a George and Tom Fazio design that opened in 1979. The first course located away from the main golf club; the purpose was to sell real estate. A grass practice range and a small but excellent short game area adjoins a modest clubhouse.
Small Cute Clubhouse
Pervasive Bunch Grass
The course meanders through the typical Pinehurst forested Sandhills surrounded by smartly designed homes. Although the fairways are undulating, the consistent but gentle uphill elevated greens often have false fronts. Take an extra club on approach shots. And typical Fazio green-side bunkering adds to the challenge. No holes are awe-striking. The fairways are generous. The bunkers are large and well placed. Green-side areas often slope away downhill.
Pinehurst No. 6 is not as striking as the other Fazio design No. 8. But it’s no piece of cake. The uphill elevated greens, frequent on the front nine, are frustrating to reach. It’s the farthest from the main lodge, yet only four miles away. Not as busy as other courses, you’ll find the perfect place to start a Pinehurst Resort vacation.
If You Go:
• Course Info - Pinehurst No. 6 has six tee grounds from 4200 yards to 7053 yards. The blue tee rating is 72.6 with a slope of 134. The white tee rating is 70.7 with a slope of 125.
• Location - Pinehurst No. 6 is four miles northeast of the main lodge and golf club. In the Village of Pinehurst seventy-five miles southwest of the Raleigh-Durham airport and seventy miles south of Greensboro, NC.
• Lodging – Pinehurst Resort has four lodging alternatives, the historic Carolina Hotel, the Holly Inn and the Manor Inn. The Condos at Pinehurst are another choice for larger groups.
A source of golf travel inspiration, Quintessential Golf online magazine spotlights the most spectacular, enduring and scenic courses, resorts and golf adventures. Written from a players point-of-view, articles include magnificent high-resolution course images. Brought to you by Chuck Fox, single-digit golfer, writer and photographer based in Danville, California, he is fulfilling his passion and dream to play, photograph and share the romance and beauty of golf throughout North America.
Your New Trusted Blackhawk Tax Advisors
info@eastbayacct.com eastbayacct.com
925-421-2202
3860 Blackhawk Road Suite 190
Danville, CA 94506
EBA provides premier and personalized accounting services to individuals and businesses. Our areas of expertise include individual and business tax preparation and planning, forecasting, bookkeeping, business analysis, entity formation, payroll services, sales tax reporting and other small business services.
Rare Pinehurst Water Hazard
Chateau Montelena: Renown Napa Treasure
By Mike L. McColgan, Resident since 1990
Photo by MJ McColgan
Recently, we had the pleasure of visiting Chateau Montelena, most famous for winning the historic 1976 “Judgement of Paris” wine competition.
Chateau Montelena’s 1973 Chardonnay was in competition with nine other wines from France and California under blind tasting. Our personal friend Mike Grgich was the winemaker who crafted the 1973 Chardonnay. A bottle of that vintage is in the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. A fictionalized version of Chateau Montelena’s historic victory was featured in the 2008 film “Bottle Shock.”
For the past 50 years, Chateau Montelena has been making ‘outstanding’ wine operated by the famous Barrett wine family. Bo and his wife, Heidi Barrett. are held in high esteem in the world of winemaking,
We enjoyed tasting their great wines in their charming and regal Chateau.
Our knowledgeable and gracious host was John. We began with a vertical tasting of 2021 and 2015 Chardonnays. We then tasted the 2018, 2017, and 2007 Cabernet Sauvignons. Finally, we tasted the 2019 Zinfandel. The Zin is a deep garnet in color, medium body,
with a silk finish. We liked it so much we took 6 bottles home to Danville to share with our friends.
In conclusion, this is a sensational winery with a fascinating history sitting on Jade Lake in Calistoga that is a ‘must do’ to add to your wine bucket list.
For more information and to make a reservation go to:
https://montelena.com/
Vegetarian Roasted Roots
By Parisa Z. Ambwani, Resident since 1983
You will be thrilled with this recipe’s flavor and texture.
Serves 8. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Grease a roasting pan.
• 2 young rutabagas
• 2 young turnips
• 4 small red potatoes
• 4 carrots
• 10 pearl onions, peeled
• 6 cloves of garlic, peeled, grated
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Garnish: ¼ cup parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon sea salt OR to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup white wine
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
Wash and pat dry vegetables (rutabaga, turnip, potato, and carrot), peel, and cut into similar size pieces (about 1-inch cubes/lengths).
In a mixing bowl, combine cut vegetables with onions, garlic, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme. Cover the bowl and marinate in refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.
Place marinated vegetables in a single layer on greased roasting pan; roast uncovered in the oven about 25-30 minutes (their color will change slightly) and remove partially cooked vegetables from oven.
Add ¼ cup olive oil to preheated wok. Add vegetables and stir-fry constantly for a few minutes over high heat.
Turn off heat and carefully add a mixture of wine and rice vinegar from a corner of the wok. Return the wok to high heat and stir vegetable mixture for a few more minutes until the liquid evaporates. Turn off the heat, vegetables are ready to serve. Place vegetables on a serving plate and garnish with parsley; serve warm.
Note: Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor; it reduces outside moisture, yet the vegetables interior is still moist.
About Parisa Z. Ambwani:
Parisa, a native of Persia who moved to Blackhawk in 1983, has a BA in Fine Arts. Deeply influenced by her mother’s cooking, she has spent three decades writing cookbooks and pairing food with her poetry, philosophy, herbs and spices, and herbal teas. Parisa’s unique cookbooks are known for their merging of useful culinary information with a clear understanding of the relationship with other human beings and with the universe. She has followed this recipe to write and photograph seven books and over 1000 recipes that weave her beliefs into caring words on how to live life to the fullest. Learn more by visiting her website, enlightenedrecipes.com.
By Jo Peek & Megan Scott, Founders of Blackhawk Living Magazine
Mingle with the content contributors, advertisers and founders of our monthly community magazine. Join us as we celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Blackhawk Living Magazine!
If the hyperlink doesn’t work, copy and paste https://bit.ly/BlackhawkLiving10 Celebrate Blackhawk Living’s Anniversary with a Party
Monday March 3, 2025 6pm-8pm
Blue Sakana Blackhawk
3496 Blackhawk Plaza Cir, Danville, CA 94506
We will enjoy a large assortment of sushi rolls, sashimi, cooked and vegetarian items. No host bar.
RSVP for the Blackhawk Living 10th Anniversary Party
Frozen dawn: A January Sunrise Whispers of a New Year…
By Sonia Lamba, Resident since 2015 | Images by Sonia Lamba
The morning sunrise fills my heart with joy, optimism and hope; awakens and energizes my mind and body; and gives a positive kick to my day (better than coffee or tea). Waking up before the sun and watching it rise is incredibly fulfilling, tranquil and gorgeous. A New Year Day sunrise is even more rewarding where some precious and beautiful moments are only meant for the lucky few like me, once I have managed the hard task of rolling out of my bed. I have been fortunate enough to chase the sunrise more than once while living in Blackhawk, the place I love to call home.
As the January sunrise unfolds in a soft, muted brilliance, it paints the frosty landscape with hues of gold and blush. The sun rises slowly, its pale light scattering across the icy valley and bare trees, its rays piercing the lingering mist and casting long shadows over the earth. The crisp air carries a stillness, broken only by the distant call of birds awakening to the day. It’s a moment of quiet beauty, where winter’s chill meets the warmth of new beginnings.
So here’s wishing my readers a Happy New Year 2025, filled with 365 days of fun, adventure and beautiful beginnings while chasing the vibrant inspiring colors of sunrise and more!
Sonia Lamba
As an aspiring photographer, I have always loved taking beautiful photos of my friends and family, nature and travels. After having a fulfilling career in finance in New York, I moved to California in 2014 where my love for photography turned into an invigorating passion. Moving to gorgeous Blackhawk has further enriched and blossomed my love for the camera. I take my camera everywhere, regardless of how short the distance is. Knowing me, there is always a photo opportunity!
New Year, New Shine: Essential Tips for Maintaining Your Jewelry
As we step into the new year, many of us focus on resolutions for self-care, organization, and refreshing different areas of our lives. But we at Padis Jewelry of course encourage (with a bit of a bias) giving the same attention to your beloved jewelry pieces. Just like any treasured possession, your jewelry deserves care and attention to ensure it remains as brilliant and beautiful as the day you got it. Here are some essential tips for maintaining your jewelry and starting the new year with sparkle and shine.
1. Schedule a Professional Cleaning
Just as you’d visit a dentist for a thorough cleaning, your jewelry benefits from a professional touch. Schedule a professional cleaning and inspection with your trusted jeweler. A professional can clean those hard-toreach areas and check for any potential damage or loose stones. It’s a quick way to make sure your favorite pieces are in tip-top shape and to prevent small issues from becoming big repairs.
By Steve Padis, Padis Jewelry
2. Polish and Buff for Brilliance
Daily wear can dull the shine of your rings, necklaces, and bracelets. Precious metals like gold, silver, and platinum can lose their luster due to oxidation and contact with oils and lotions. Give your jewelry a gentle polish using a soft microfiber cloth or a jewelry-specific polishing cloth. For intricate pieces, consider a professional buffing to restore that mirror-like finish.
3. Organize and Store Properly
The start of the year is the perfect time to declutter and organize your jewelry collection. Ensure each piece is stored correctly to prevent scratches, tangling, or damage. Use separate compartments in a jewelry box, or store pieces in soft pouches. For necklaces, hanging them individually can help avoid frustrating knots and tangles.
4. Know When to Remove Your Jewelry
There are times when wearing your jewelry could lead to damage. Make it a habit to remove rings, bracelets, and necklaces before activities like:
• Exercising: Sweat and equipment can tarnish or scratch your pieces.
• Cleaning: Chemicals in cleaning products can corrode metals and dull gemstones.
• Showering and Swimming: Chlorine and saltwater can harm metals and stones.
• Sleeping: Tossing and turning can loosen prongs or chains – and carries the potential for hitting your loved one with the hardest substances on the planet accidentally while sleeping!
5. Do a Monthly DIY Check-Up
Set a reminder to perform a quick monthly inspection of your jewelry. Look for any signs of wear, such as loose stones, bent prongs, or tarnishing. Catching these issues early helps prevent costly repairs or, worse, losing a precious gem.
6. Clean at Home Safely
In between professional cleanings, you can keep your jewelry sparkling with a simple at-home routine. For most metals and gemstones, a gentle solution of warm water and mild dish soap works wonders. Soak your pieces for a few minutes, then gently scrub with a soft toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a clean cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, especially on pearls or soft stones like opals and turquoise.
7. Reappraise and Update Insurance
The new year is a great time to review the value of your jewelry and ensure your insurance is up to date. If you’ve acquired new pieces or the market value has changed, you might need to update your coverage. Schedule an appraisal with our American Gem Society Certified Gemologist Appraisers or GIA Graduate Gemologists to protect your investments.
8. Give Heirloom Pieces Some Love
Family heirlooms or vintage pieces may require extra attention. If you’ve inherited jewelry or have pieces that haven’t been worn in years, consider having them professionally restored or reimagined into modern designs. This keeps the sentimental value alive while making the jewelry wearable again.
9. Resolve to Wear More of What You Love
Lastly, don’t let your beautiful pieces collect dust! Make a resolution to incorporate more of your jewelry into your everyday wardrobe. Rotate pieces regularly and celebrate the stories and memories behind each one.
Our team at Padis is here and ready to help with all of your jewelry needs both in our stores and virtually at padisjewelry.com or 415-861-5388.The Padis team is thrilled to be a part of the East Bay community and looks forward to seeing you soon. From our family to yours, we wish you a very happy new year!
