Blackhawk Living Magazine March 2019

Exclusively Serving the Blackhawk Community.

M A RCH 2 019

Blackhawk

LIVING

Meet The Rasbands:

It’s not the road; it’s the destination.

COVER PHOTO:

by Kim Lind Photography

YOUR LOCAL BUILDING AND REMODELING COMPANY

WE SPECIALIZE AND CAN INTEGRATE ALL OF THESE AREAS: • • • • • • • • • •

Design & Engineering Additions Kitchens Bathrooms Show Garages Flooring Windows Media Systems Cabanas Pools

• • • • • • • • • •

Crown Moulding Iron Railing Stone & Tile Roofing HVAC Systems Smart Homes Painting Custom Cabinets New Construction Landscape

OUR MISSION

S&J Properties is excited to announce the opening of the new S&J Design Center, located in the Rose Garden Shopping Center in Danville, CA. A leader in the Tri-Valley area building & remodeling industry, S&J Properties has achieved a reputation for quality, innovation, and beautifully inspired designs.

Our expert team stays current on the latest products, trends, and technology in the industry.

The S&J Design Center helps our team add a comprehensive and personal design experience, in a warm and welcoming environment. These qualities combined with our fair and honest approach, results in the best remodeling experience and helps achieve S&J’s overall objective of continuing to make customer service and satisfaction our top priority.

The S&J Design Center offers a variety of mid-to-high end products including; wood flooring, carpet, floor, wall, and glass tile, counter tops, window coverings and much more. Contact us and begin your personalized design experience!

Call Today! 925-820-2924 MAKE YOUR HOME YOUR DREAM.

FROM CONCEPTION TO COMPLETION, WE CAN HANDLE IT ALL.

Living & Working in the Community Since 1990 2

We are committed to being the premiere remodeling company of our clients' dreams. Through integrity, professionalism, innovation, quality and service, we build enduring value and lasting relationships.

ABOUT US

S&J Properties is a Design/Build company that specializes in residential and commercial remodeling construction projects. By performing both the design Jim Long and construction, we provide the most beautiful, long-lasting and highest value remodeling projects in the industry. Our planning process is extremely thorough, which results in “no surprises” and a rapid and real timeline. Communication with clients, our partners, the city, and other regulatory organizations is consistent and frequent so our timelines are optimized.

We specialize in providing inspiring and custom solutions; whether it is a kitchen, bathroom, single room, landscaping, or an entire home or building. We invite you to take some time to explore us for yourself; talk with our clients and see a sampling of the high-quality work we perform.

www.propertiesbysj.com General Contractor License #993363 Class B

MARCH 2019

Blackhawk

LIVING

Publication Team

www.BlackhawkLivingCA.com

Publisher:

Jo Peek, Blackhawk Resident since 2014

Blackhawk Living Magazine is celebrating a big milestone this month: our four-year anniversary! We are thrilled and honored to have had the opportunity to serve our community with a local magazine for the past 48 months and look forward to many more.

Content Coordinator: Megan Scott Blackhawk Resident since 2010

This month we are introducing you to your neighbors, the Rasbands. The new transplants to the Bay Area love calling Blackhawk home.

Designer: Emily Lund Jo Peek

Dear Neighbors,

We Are Now Online!!

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.

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. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2019 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

It’s about this time of year that I start to get a little cabin fever, so I’m really looking forward to Sunday, March 10th, when we get the pleasure of advancing our clocks an hour.

I love having more time to walk the dog, play outside and visit with neighbors. It’s also a sign that warmer weather is on the way!

It’s been incredibly fun to share the stories of our residents over the past four years in Blackhawk Living Magazine. Thank you for all of your support!

Warmly,

Megan Scott

Resident Since 2010

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 mscott@bestversionmedia.com

Have you heard the buzz about the hottest thing in town?

925-244-1700 OsteoStrong® is the ultimate biohack that helps you strengthen the foundation of your body – the skeletal system. Originally developed to eliminate Osteoporosis, it has been found to do that plus so much more.

Studies have shown: • Increases in strength of 73% in their 1st Year • Dramatic balance improvements after only 5 sessions • Average person increases bone density by 14% in 6 months

Call now, mention this Ad and we will Buy you a two week membership: 3442 Camino Tassajara Danville, CA 94506 Osteostrongdanville@gmail.com 925 – 967 – 2809 www.osteostrong.me

BLACKHAWK LIVING 3

Expert Contributors Auto Sales & Service Kerri Anderson Pleasanton Automall Kerri.Anderson@hendrickauto.com 925- 737-5062

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.

Dentist Dr. Larry Porteous DDS Larry Porteous Family Dentistry 925-736-9000

Porteous Family Dentistry- Larry Porteous DDS and Linda Porteous RDH have been serving the dental needs in the communities of Rodeo,Vallejo and Blackhawk/Danville for over 30 years.They are a full service practice, eliminating, in most cases, the need for referrals. Offering extended hours for your convenience. “Our practices are dedicated to treating and preventing dental diseases in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. We strive to give each person the same respect, concern and care we would expect as patients.

Financial Advice JWM Wealth Management, LLC Joe Morgan, CFP®, CFA 925-389-3889 joe@jwmwealth.com www.jwmwealth.com

Joe Morgan is a fee-only financial advisor who acts as an educator, guide, and protector of wealth to individuals and families. He created his own firm after a successful investment career because he wanted to help people find clarity in their aspirations, resources, and risks. When he’s not showing how financial advice doesn’t have to be dictated by stuffy suited men from Wall Street, he enjoys tennis at Blackhawk Country Club and hiking the Tri-Valley area.

Education The Dorris-Eaton School 925-930-9000 www.dorriseaton.org

The Dorris-Eaton School serves preschool through eighth grade students and is recognized locally and nationally for its academic excellence. Strong writing, grammar, and reading classes are paired with interactive science, math and history courses. Foreign language, technology, art, music, and physical education are integral components of the program. Our experienced faculty provides the solid foundation that enables our graduates to succeed in the finest high schools and universities in the country.

General Contractor S&J Properties Jim Long Office: 925-820-2924 Cell: 925-575-0183 jim@propertiesbysj.com propertiesbysj.com

S&J Properties is a Design/Build company that specializes in residential remodeling construction projects. By performing both the design and construction, we provide the most beautiful, long-lasting and highest value remodeling projects in the industry. Our planning process is extremely thorough, which results in “no surprises” and a rapid and real timeline. Communication with clients, our partners and other regulatory organizations are optimized. We specialize in providing inspiring and custom solutions.

Insurance Roger Fernando State Farm Roger Fernando Agency 925-244-1700 roger@rogerfernando.com

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.

Interior Design & Decorating Raashi Design Sheeja Nair 925-236-0402 enquiries@RaashiDesign.com www.RaashiDesign.com

Sheeja Nair is the founder/principal designer of award-winning Raashi Design. She specializes in creating interiors and custom homes that are thoughtfully conceived with an emphasis on elegance, comfort, functionality, and the homeowner’s personal style. Her international design work influences her approach to using color, texture and lighting in exciting, yet tasteful ways. An out-of-the-box thinker, Sheeja’s background in engineering and physics uniquely qualify her to solve challenging design issues.

We Are Now Online!! www.BlackhawkLivingCA.com

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MARCH 2019

Expert Contributors To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Jo Peek at jpeek@bestversionmedia.com.

Jewelry, Diamonds & Timepieces Steve Padis Steve Padis Jewelry info@padisjewelry.com www.padisjewelry.com

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.

Mortgages Steve Cline Preferred Financial 925-820-5557 SCline@PreferredFinancial.com www.PreferredFinancial.com

Preferred Financial Group, Inc. is a local family owned business, funding over 11 Billion Dollars since 1979. We are the pioneer of the zero cost mortgage with access to over 15 national lenders and banks to obtain the lowest possible interest rate for your residential purchase or refinance. We listen, we educate, then perform like no one else in the industry.

Music & Fine Art Victoria Strochkova San Ramon Music & Fine Art School -925-336-0181 sanramonmusic@gmail.com www.sanramonmusic.com

Victoria Strochkova is a founder and Director of San Ramon Music and Fine Art School.

Mrs. Strochkova has more than 25 years of teaching experience; in 2008 she decided to collaborate her expertise and experience with other great teachers, which led her to idea to establish music school in San Ramon. Our school is happy to offer the highest quality music instructions and performance opportunities for students of all ages.

Mrs. Strochkova is a member of MTAC since 1998. She graduated from Kiev State Music College in 1988 and Kiev State Conservatory in 1993.

Orthodontics Dr. Richard Anthony Blackhawk Orthodontics 925-736-3311 richard.anthony@blackhawkortho.com www.blackhawkortho.com

Richard Anthony, DDS MS Originally from Minneapolis, MN, Dr. Anthony moved to Danville in 1970 with his family and attended the old Charlotte Wood Middle School and San Ramon Valley High School. Dr. Anthony attended the University of California at Berkeley and subsequently completed his dental education at the University of Southern California in 1990. Later that same year, he opened the current office location at the Blackhawk Medical Center where he practiced for over 27 years. Dr. Anthony, his wife Michele, and son Ryan live in Danville. The family can always be found up at Lake Tahoe either hiking, biking, skiing, boating, or relaxing at the beach.

Pool Service Jon Lubrano Atlantis Pools 925-736-0447 info@atlantispoolsdanville.com atlantispoolsdanville.com

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.

Real Estate​ Linda H Kralik, CRB, CRS Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Drysdale Properties ​925-998-​9446 lkralik@pacbell.net

Linda’s love of the land began​while growing up in Danville riding her horse through the open​fields and trails that once crisscrossed the San Ramon Valley. Her most prized moments were​​early morning rides to the top of Mt. Diablo to watch the sun rise. Upon her return to the land of​her childhood, Linda began her real estate career over 30 years ago and has achieved many​ awards and top honors in her professional field.

Tree Service Trex Donovan Buena Vista Tree Service 415-531-1247 ntdonovan@yahoo.com www.buenavistatree.com

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.

Unique ​& Custom Travel Experiences Lori McDonald Cruise Planners 925-380-6208 lmcdonald@cruiseplanners.com www.McDonaldTravel.com

Lori McDonald, Travel Advisor, with Cruise Planners, wows her clients while considerately guiding their travel plans. Being passionate about helping her clients design the ultimate vacation, corporate travel, or assisting with a dream destination wedding, Lori’s expertise knows no bounds. Lori is professional, creative and detail-oriented. Each aspect of her clients’ land, sea, or river travel blueprint must be perfect.

BLACKHAWK LIVING 5

Resident Feature

Meet The Rasbands: It’s not the road; it’s the destination.

By Megan Scott, Resident since 2010

L

isa and Alan Rasband were raised in two very different places only to find each other in Seattle, Washington. Lisa, although born in Spokane, Washington, spent most of her formative years on Douglas Island across the bay from Juneau, Alaska. She loved her time there and literally left kicking and screaming as a 16-year-old, to move to Bellingham, Washington. In her early adult years, she traveled and worked across the U.S., finally developing some roots in the Seattle/Puget Sound region. Alan, on the other hand, was born and raised in Central Utah, enjoying all the outdoor activities that can be found there from deserts to the wonderful Utah snow until he moved away in his thirties. In his younger days, Alan played bass in a few local bands in Utah, opening for Janis Joplin and Jimi Hendrix were a few of the highlights. After spending a few years in Southern California managing some very diverse construction projects, he too ended up taking an opportunity in the Pacific Northwest. After a couple of years, Lisa came to apply for a job she didn’t want and almost cancelled the interview. If she had she would have never met Alan. The result was Lisa and Alan both working for Malcolm Drilling Co., Inc., a San Francisco based foundation drilling company, and becoming friends for the next 6 years.

After a couple of difficult divorces and many rounds of golf, they realized that they were crazy about each other and wanted to spend the rest of their lives together. They decided to get married in Utah near Alan’s parents due to the health of his mother. Family and close friends gathered in a very quick (almost shotgun) wedding in 2006.

The result was a new family in which there isn’t a yours and mine but an “ours.” Lisa went from having one son to five sons, which she enjoys very much, along with four beautiful daughters-in-law and 10 grandchildren.

They proceeded to move into their perfect little house in Maple Valley, WA on a golf course and fully remodeled it inside and out.

They were very active in their community and took the lead each year on the annual Christmas food drive for their community food bank. Their neighborhood would put up the best Christmas lights that people would come to see from miles around. They would advertise the event each year to get as much traffic as possible through the neighborhood, sometimes to the detriment of being able to get into their own driveway. As the cars paraded through the neighborhood,

joined by their kids, grandkids, neighbors and Santa, they would enjoy the spirit of Christmas collecting money and food for the local food bank. They also organized a hayride through the neighborhood pulled by one of their sons. Life was good, everything was perfect, and they were very happy for almost ten years.

As the District Manager and Vice President of Malcolm Drilling, Alan held many industry positions including President of the Association of Drilled Shaft Contractors (ADSC) being his crowning achievement. They had the opportunity to travel to wonderful places and got to know new friends in their industry that they will treasure for life. They spent their time playing golf, enjoying friends and family, going to soccer games and dance recitals. Everything perfect…until, it wasn’t.

Sometimes it’s best not to answer the phone. In mid-year of 2015, the Executive Vice President of Malcolm Drilling called Alan and said that the he should start getting things ready to move to the Bay Area to take on the Presidency of the company located in downtown San Francisco. While that sounds like a very nice honor, Alan’s response was, “Heck no! Why would I want to do that?” Lisa was not happy about moving either, as they would be leaving their kids, grandkids and friends to the unknown California. Not to mention, that Lisa was leaving an excellent job as Malcolm’s NW Business Manager. The owner assured both of them, it would work out just fine.

Once everything finally sunk in, Lisa flew to California to help her son with his wedding plans in Valley Springs. She took the opportunity to look for a place to live. Then, in November of 2015, they were told that they needed to be at the corporate office by January of 2016. They hopped on a plane and began the process of finding their perfect Bay

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MARCH 2019

Area home. Ultimately, they settled on the first house they saw in the beautiful development of Blackhawk. After Christmas, they loaded up their cars, grabbed their dog, Megs, and drove to Danville. Alan is now the President and COO of Malcolm Drilling and Lisa’s title is Manager of Special Projects (that just means if nobody else will do it, give it to her). It took a while to settle in, especially not knowing anyone. They signed up for every event you could think of just to get seated at a big table to meet new people. It was very difficult, but thanks to the wonderful people of Blackhawk, it turned out very well.

They both play golf, pickleball and tennis. Lisa just took up tennis in May of 2017, excelled quickly and loved it. Lisa joined the C-team, met some of the most wonderful women and friends, took lessons and had a lot of practice that ultimately paid off. The Blackhawk C-team won Northern California Sectionals in 2018, and they went on to play for a National title in Orlando, FL in October, finishing 6th nationally. Alan was with her all the way being the most supportive husband you can imagine. He has taken up tennis too to spend more time with her as her 2nd home is now at the tennis villas. Their favorite thing to do turned out to be anything they do together no matter what that might be.

The Rasbands also love to travel and to play golf. Last year they traveled with members of Blackhawk to a magical trip to Ireland. This past spring was Cabo, and hopefully they will be on to Spain in the fall. While life can be filled with a lot of twists and turns, Lisa and Alan wouldn’t change a thing and certainly not where they live now!

They have a very close-knit and large family spread throughout the country. They definitely count their blessings when it comes to their kids and grandkids, and of course all the kids love visiting Mom and Dad in Blackhawk.

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.

Ireland trip taken with Blackhawk Country Club in 2017

There’s a Reason People Talk to Tucker!

Your Community Broker - Serving the Bay Area for 25 Years

Nicole Tucker 925-360-2125 TuckerRealEstateGroup.com CalBRE01145208

BLACKHAWK LIVING 7

Pet Adoption Corner

Big Easy

Corey

Meet your forever friend at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: Noon to 6 pm Wednesday & Thursday, Noon to 7 pm Friday, and Noon to 6 pm Saturday & Sunday.

Eight-year-old Big Easy is a large, lumbering goofball who’s sure to make you smile. This gentle giant excels at making friends wherever he goes but is equally comfortable out of the spotlight, curled up by himself with a nice chew toy! Big Easy also proves that age ain’t nothing but a number, as this spry fellow still loves to stay active, enjoying long walks and regular playtime!

Would you like to be part of the heroic team that saves the lives of rescued dogs and cats? Can you share your talents to connect people and animals? ARF volunteers are making a difference! For more information see our website, www. arflife.org, or call (925) 256-1ARF.

The adoption fee for puppies <6 months is $300, for adult dogs is $250, and includes a discount on the first six-week session of a manners class.

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Three-year-old Corey is a big, handsome fellow who has a big purrsonality to match!

This playful tuxedo loves to hang out with his people, and play with wand toys. He enjoys exploring, and is hoping his new home has LOTS for him to do! Corey has a cuddly side along with a spirited side; both will endear him to feline aficionados.

Corey will add much joy to the cat-savvy household, who can enjoy his active ‘personality-plus’ self!

The adoption fee for kittens <6 months $125 and for adult cats is $75.

MARCH 2019

Real Estate Listings in Blackhawk

Active Real Estate Listings in Blackhawk

Street

List Price

Street

List Price

Kingswood Cir Kingswood Cir Kingswood Ct Cottonwood Dr Birchbark Pl Silver Pine Ln Sugar Maple Dr Saddleback Dr Golden Oak Ct Blackhawk Dr Deer Ridge Dr Bent Oak Ct Blackhawk Dr Blackhawk Dr

$839,000 $868,000 $999,000 $1,549,900 $1,649,800 $1,749,800 $1,750,000 $1,788,000 $1,795,000 $1,839,000 $2,098,800 $2,275,000 $2,299,000 $2,399,000

Canyon Oak Ln Deer Creek Ln Blackhawk Dr Rosewood Ln Red Alder Ct Country Club Ter Eagle Ridge Dr Red Pine Ct Saddleback Pl Kingswood Ln Blackhawk Meadow Ln Blackhawk Meadow Ln Blackhawk Meadow Dr

$2,550,000 $2,595,000 $2,675,000 $2,995,000 $3,350,000 $3,388,800 $4,900,000 $5,900,000 $6,500,000 $6,900,000 $7,999,800 $8,450,000 $15,500,000

Sq.Ft. BR FBA PBA 1752 1752 2162 3531 3475 3477 3310 3248 4298 3395 4430 4541 5113 5065

2 2 3 4 4 5 5 5 5 4 5 4 4 5

2 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 3 3 3 4 4

1 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 1

Sq.Ft. BR FBA PBA 4387 5200 5470 6197 6181 6137 7010 5774 9716 10116 8826 9955 6370

5 5 5 5 4 5 4 4 6 7 7 6 5

5 4 4 5 5 5 4 5 5 8 8 7 5

0 1 1 2 2 1 2 0 2 0 2 3 1

Source: Rockcliff 2.0 2/10/2019 Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in this magazine is separate from any statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.

The Nagle Team

is proudly representing your community About Barbara

Barbara Nagle is recognized as a longtime trusted & experienced real estate broker. Barbara is one of the original pioneers in real estate in Blackhawk since 1981.

Barbara uses her experience, knowledge and dedication to assist her clients. Barbara is the proud mother of three children & four grandchildren. As hobbies, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, gardening with her husband and doing Sudoku!

About Michelle

Michelle has been a licensed real estate agent for over 20 years and a broker since 2003. Michelle uses her marketing and technology skills to promote listings and has a keen ability to understand client’s needs.

She is a U.C. Berkeley graduate and the proud mother of a daughter who is a USC graduate. Michelle enjoys being part of the Blackhawk community through her affiliation with Blackhawk Women, Blackhawk Bloomers and Tennis at Blackhawk Country Club!

If you are thinking about buying or selling a home or have questions about Real Estate…call The Nagle Team today!

Michelle Nagle & Barbara Nagle

Michelle Cell 925 872-1478 Barbara Cell 925 872-1500

DRE # 01261283 DRE # 00828225

www.NagleNagle.com The Nagle Team J. Rockcliff Realtors President’s Club

mnagle@rockcliff.com

50+ Years of Real Estate Experience and Over 1/2 Billion dollars in combined Blackhawk Sales The Nagle Team provides Excellence, Service and Results We work, volunteer and live as friends among friends in your community Experienced Negotiation Skills to serve our client’s best interests Extensive use of Technology based resources and Marketing

Your Real Estate Transaction will be handled with the utmost care

Real Estate is our Passion!

BLACKHAWK LIVING 9

March

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Sat., March 9

FUN ON THE FARM! KEEP MOOOVING @Forest Home Farms Historic Park Make plans to stop by the Farm and enjoy the beautiful setting and natural environment.

• Take the Self-Guided Tour • Enjoy themed presentations and hands-on activities at Fun on the Farm • Tour the Glass House Museum at 1pm every Saturday ($5 fee, credit card only) • Visit the Tractor Barn and see our collection of antique tractors and engines • Shop for unique gifts and toys in the Gift Shoppe on Saturdays • Themed group field trips and Glass House Museum tours are scheduled by appointment. Call (925) 973- 3284 for information.

Time: 11am-2pm

Fri. March 15-Sat., March 16

Rogers & Hammerstein’s A Grand Night for Singing @ Village Theatre Danville, 233 Front Street A musical revue showcasing the music of Richard Rodgers and the lyrics of Oscar Hammerstein II. Featuring songs from such lesserknown works as Allegro, Me and Juliet, State Fair, and Pipe Dream, modest successes like Flower Drum Song and hits like Carousel, Oklahoma!, The King and I, South Pacific, Cinderella and The Sound of Music, it originally was presented cabaret-style at Rainbow & Stars at the top of Rockefeller Center.

Time: 8:00pm Tickets: www.villagetheatreshows.com

Sat., March 16

PARTY IN THE PARK AND CAMP FAIR @Central Park 12501 Alcosta

Blvd. San Ramon Get a jump on summer and come have a blast at Party in the Park & Camp Fair!

Don’t miss this easy and fun way to find great ideas for BIG FUN and learning this summer. Exciting demonstrations, performances and activities will be available. Your family will be amazed at the variety of summer camps and new activities for all ages to be discovered.

Meet camp staff, industry experts and instructors. Everything from arts and music, to sports, fitness, aquatics and enrichment just to name a few. There’s something for everyone in your family!

Time: 1-3:30pm

Thurs., March 21-Sat., March 30

Fiddler On the Roof Jr. @VillageTheatre Danville Don’t miss this local production of a theatre classic. Times vary.

For more info visit www. villagetheatreshows.com or call 925-314-3400

Wed., March 20

Arts & Travel Series: “Monet: The Late Years”

@Danville Library Get ready for a special Arts & Travel Presentation Series from around the world! Enjoy fascinating visual presentations of upcoming art exhibits at prestigious San Francisco art museums such as the De Young Museum, Legion of Honor, and Asian Art Museum of San Francisco and learn about exciting adventures in travel.

Time: 1pm

Wed., March 27

Danville Senior Trips & Excursions: De Young Museum @de Young Museum Enjoy a day at the de Young Museum.

Your ticket will include transportation and access to the both the Monet and Gauguin exhibits. The Monet exhibition features fifty paintings by Claude Monet dating mainly from 1913 to 1926, the final phase of his long career, including twenty works from the Musée Marmottan Monet in Paris. The Gauguin exhibition will be on view for the first time in San Francisco.

It is the first at the Fine Arts Museums dedicated to the work of Paul Gauguin (1848-1903), an exceptional display

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of more than fifty Gauguin paintings, wood carvings, and ceramics from the renowned collections of the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, Copenhagen. Lunch on your own.

Time: 8 am to 5pm Tickets and more info at www.danvilleca.gov

Every Monday

Tips for Change Community Fundraising Events @Gianni’s Italian Bistro Gianni’s Italian Bistro opens up their restaurant to support our local nonprofit community. Tips for Change is a fun and unique way for local charity organizations to raise much needed funds.

Volunteers and supporters of local nonprofits suit up and become your servers for the evening with all tips and 10% of sales going to support their organization.

This event occurs most Monday evenings between 5 and 8pm and is open to the public. Reservations required.

More information at www. giannissanramon.com

Every Saturday

Farmers’ Market @Railroad Ave. Municipal Parking Lot - Downtown Get the freshest seasonal fare at the Danville Certified Farmers’ Market.

You’ll find fruits and vegetables direct from local farmers, along with fresh-cut flowers, bedding plants, fresh breads, and delicious specialty food items you can eat in the market or take with you to enjoy at home. It’s the perfect place to stock up for the week, or shop al fresco while socializing with friends. This event is located at Railroad & Prospect Avenues and offers free parking in the adjacent lot.

Time: 9am-1pm More information at www.pcfma.com

Save the date: Sat., May 11

Rock Out Hunger @Blackhawk Country Club Join the Loaves and Fishes community at our largest fundraiser. A gala event including cocktail hour, silent auction, dinner, live auction and dancing to The 925 Band.

For more information or to register https://loavesfishescc.ejoinme. org/ROCKOUTHUNGER2019 Time: 5:30pm-10:30pm MARCH 2019

Expert Contributor

Designing Your Dream Home

By Jim Long, S&J Properties, General Contractor, Resident since 1991

B

egin to sketch your ideas and make lists of features you want each room to have just get your ideas out of your head and onto paper. Even rough sketches can help your home design team understand what you want.

Think about the future, do you have or plan on having children in the coming years? Do you have aging parents? If so, you’ll need to think about accommodating close family members in many different scenarios, such as returning college students, accommodating grandchildren and grandparents, taking care of elderly parents even accommodating extended family for holiday occasions. Likewise, if you’re hoping to transition from an office job to operating your own business out of your home, your custom home design should include an office or flexible space.

Basically, when you think about the amenities in your custom home plan, you are deciding what kind of family you’d like to become. Include features your future self will find handy.

Showcase and maximize your lot, oftentimes those who are in the market for a custom house plan already own the property where the home will be located. If you already know where your custom home will be situated, be sure to consider the topography, size and best features of the lot. For instance, if your lot overlooks a nature scape, you might choose to face the living room toward the feature so your family members can watch nature in action.

Alternatively, if you have a brook or stream running through your property, you might choose to place bedrooms nearest the stream so you can enjoy the beautiful sound of running water while you sleep. In addition to thinking about which windows should face the home’s best views, you’ll want to consider whether the land is sloped. A custom home design for a steep slope will look very different than a design for a flat lot.

Once your ideas are recorded in rough form, begin prioritizing features for your new house. A custom home design can easily exceed a budget if you let your fancies run wild. With so many luxuries to choose from, it’s important to prioritize the most important aspects of your design.

As you and your designer begin playing around with where various rooms should be located, consider how your final design will flow and how your family might function in each space. For instance, to reduce noise in sleeping areas, it’s wise to place bedrooms away from the communal areas of the house.

Likewise, if you’re the kind of family that tends to gather around the kitchen, an open floor plan with easy flow between the living room, kitchen and dining area will suit you well. This kind of design also allows for excellent flow between rooms.

Light has a powerful influence on humans. Light also figures into the placement of rooms in a custom home plan. As an example, if you want to enjoy natural morning light in your dining nook, it would be wise to face the nook east, where it will catch the morning sun.

It’s also wise to think carefully about how electrical lights in your home will facilitate comfort. For instance, a custom home designer would suggest installing bright task lighting for kitchen countertops to facilitate food preparation. Lighting can also create a mood – for example, dimming sconces in the bedroom can create a sense of romance or peace.

Meditating on the items listed above can help you create the home of your dreams. As you work with your home designer, take your time. Remember that it’s far easier to be upfront about what you do and do not like than it will be to remodel your custom home later.

If you are thinking about designing your dream home, getting the help from a qualified professional design builder is worth the investment and long run value.

BLACKHAWK LIVING 11

Charity Spotlight

Drive Out Hunger Benefitting Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa

Monday, April 8, 2019 Round Hill Country Club

11:00am-1:30pm BBQ Lunch

18 holes of golf (scramble format), BBQ lunch, prizes, awards and heavy appetizers

4:30/5:00pm Awards Reception with Heavy Appetizers

10am Registration 11:30am Shotgun Start

Register by April 5: loavesfishescc.ejoinme.org/ DRIVEOUTHUNGER2019

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MARCH 2019

Linda Kralik

Blackhawk Bloomers Garden Club

By Kim Chandler, Resident since 2012

Blackhawk Resident for 33 Years

Come join us for our Wednesday, March 27 Luncheon.

Social at 11:15 am & Lunch at Noon & Speaker at 1:00pm in the Blackhawk Country Club Ballroom for:

• Born and raised in the Danville area • A Member of the DD Riders • Five years on the San Ramon Valley AAU Swim Team • Moved back to Blackhawk in 1984 • Blackhawk Country Club Member since 1984 • Served as President for Women’s Tennis Asscociation • Served as President for the Blackhawk Swim Team • Served on numerous Blackhawk Country Club Committees • Blackhawk HomeOwner’s Association Board member for over 17 years

NONA TAI “Flower Arranging” from Floral Design Studio

Nona Tai has a unique approach to creating flower arrangements. She imagines a design that expresses an idea and is visually entertaining. Nona developed these concepts in her early training in Alameda and Pleasanton and has made floral design a career for 25 years. She is the owner of Floral Design Studio in Fremont. Nona has honed her attention to detail creating floral arrangements mainly for weddings and large events. Nordstrom is one of her clients. Using the principals of Ikebana in many of her arrangements, Nona believes flowers can express emotions. Nona works hard at her craft and is at the Flower Mart at least three times a week preparing for large weekend orders. Nona believes it is important to understand a client’s vision and tries to create a design that reflects that vision. She notes that it is important to know your materials well and what works together. Nona is always searching for new ideas and travels to flower farms in foreign countries like Ecuador and Columbia.

Join Bloomers and join us!

Cost $32.00 – Reservation Deadline March 22

Linda Kralik Broker Associate and Luxury Specialist 4185 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Suite #101 Danville, CA 94506

925-998-9446

www.TheBlackhawkTeam.com

CalBRE #00991436

Email your Blackhawk Country Club number to Kim Modersbach at Budncam@gmail.com OR mail a check made out to Blackhawk Bloomers to Kim at 272 Stone Valley Way, Alamo, CA 94507 Questions? 925-820-3733 or 925-998-8216 All Blackhawk Country Club members are welcome to join Bloomers. Please contact Patricia Jenkins at 925736-7654 OR Patriciajenkins91@comcast.net

SAVE THE DATE:

April 9 for Bloomers Day Away to Filoli Mansion and Garden Tour.

April 24 for Bloomers Luncheon May 22 Bloomers Luncheon June 9 Bloomers Garden Tours BLACKHAWK LIVING 13

Expert Contributor

Don’t Make This Mistake in a Down Market

By Joe Morgan, CFP®, CFA, Principal: JWM Wealth Management, LLC

T

here are many mistakes we can make when we invest, the most major of which is to sit out the market. Most of the rest lead us to the conclusion to sell our portfolio and “wait for a better time to invest.”

On a regular basis, I speak to people who sold out of the market in 2009 (when the S&P 500 was about 1000 vs. today’s level of around 2700), and I wonder what influenced them to do something so destructive to their financial lives.

I think I’ve figured it out and honestly, it wasn’t that hard. Talk to anyone who is sitting in cash and you’ll find they know pretty much everything the financial media has said in the last week.

To understand this better, take a look at my latest blogpost (https:// jwmwealth.com/the-optimistic-investor/success-of-the-last-dumbbuyer) where I calculate the return of the “Last Dumb Buyer” who bought stocks in 2008, the last day before the market crashed. Care to guess her return through January 2, 2019?

It was nearly 100%!

JWM Wealth Management, LLC is a Registered Investment Advisor with the State of California and Joe Morgan is a fiduciary to his clients at all times. If you’d like to take control of your finances, schedule a call with Joe at www.calendly.com/jwmwealth. You can also learn more at jwmwealth.com.

The financial media exist to make money, and they do that by gaining and retaining eyeballs. If they can get you to watch, they can charge more for advertising and be more profitable.

That’s it. That’s the game.

Now, what do you think gets more people to watch: Telling us everything is great and the markets will survive whatever challenges are here today or telling us the markets are on the verge of total destruction because….blah, blah, blah?

Of course, negative news sells, tapping into the part of our humanity that pays more attention to danger than joy.

Getting sucked into the 24-hour market news cycle is about the worst thing you can do for your Financial Life, because the “news” they convey is, and always has been, tilted toward the negative.

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MARCH 2019

Polachinta

By Madison Farkas

These Hungarian-style crêpes are a quick and easy alternative to pancakes any day of the week.

Ingredients • 2 eggs • 1/4 cup butter or margarine • 3/4 cup flour • 1 cup milk • 1 tsp baking powder • Pinch salt 1. In a mixing bowl, beat eggs and add melted butter.

2. Add flour and milk, then mix until combined.

3. Add baking powder and salt. Whisk until batter is smooth and free of lumps. It should have a thin consistency.

4. Grease a frying pan and bring it to medium heat. Using a

ladle, pour the batter into a pan (one ladle of batter makes one large crêpe). Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until surface starts to solidify and small air bubbles start to form.

Flip and cook until both sides are light golden brown and crispy around the edges.

5. Transfer the crêpe to a plate. Roll it and serve with butter, syrup, powdered sugar, whipped cream or fresh fruit. Makes about 12 crepes. The batter will keep in the fridge overnight, but it may need to be thinned with a little milk.

BLACKHAWK LIVING 15

Expert Contributor

HAVE YOU RUN THE NUMBER$ LATELY?

By Steve Cline, Preferred Financial

F

rom a high of about 5% for a 30-year loan in 2018 (which is still crazy low), can you believe we are once again flirting with interest rates in the low 4’s? Below you will find a variety of our zero cost rates as of February 2019. Additionally, below you will find a section called “Some things to think about”….designed to get you thinking about how a decision to refinance could impact your financial well-being tomorrow.

Want to pay off your mortgage in fewer years? Are you considering a new home purchase?

Have a HELOC about to reset considerably higher? How long do you plan to live in current home?

Have a plan to pay off high interest credit cards? Is cash flow a top priority/ necessity?

Some things to think about: Is your current interest rate higher than 4.375%? Is your home in need of renovation?

If you find any of the current rates attractive, please give me a call. There are too many scenarios to highlight here, but rest assured I will be happy to prepare a personalized analysis that will give you a variety of options for your consideration.

“We listen, we educate, then we perform like no one else in the industry.”

We provide home financing services, including Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, jumbo and portfolio home mortgage products. We are a family owned business since 1979, when we pioneered the zero cost loan.

Steve Cline

Mortgage Broker and Insurance Broker Office phone - (925) 820 - 5557 Email - SCline@PreferredFinancial.com Website - www.PreferredFinancial.com

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Steve has been a Blackhawk golf member since 2003.

MARCH 2019

MARC

Dear Neighbors, As we embark on our fifth year here at Blackhawk Living Magazine, I am thankful and humbled by the success.

First and foremost, our purpose is to bring neighbors closer together.

We have dozens of residents contributing to the magazine each month and we want to invite you to participate by adding your articles, stories and photos!

Exclusiv

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Secondly, our sponsors choose to contribute a portion of their ad budget to making this magazine possible for you as a Blackhawk resident. They truly love the idea of a neighborhood newsletter-style magazine and wanted to be part of OUR neighborhood.

These sponsors make this magazine possible. There are no paid subscriptions; it’s delivered free to you each month.

We ask that you please take a moment to thank our sponsors, and let them know how much you appreciate them! Without their generosity, this magazine would not exist.

Jo Peek,

Resident since 2013

BLACKHAWK LIVING 17

Wine, Food, Golf & Fun

Iconic Slanted Door Restaurant Arrives at the San Ramon City Center

By Mike L. McColgan, Resident since 1990

I

n an effort to dine at all 3000 San Francisco Bay Area restaurants (900 and counting), my wife Linda and I recently enjoyed the iconic Slanted Door Restaurant that just opened in the new San Ramon City Center. We were also celebrating our son MJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birthday.

We are fans of Chef Charles Phan and have been to his Slanted Door in the San Francisco Ferry building many times. We have also enjoyed his Hard Water restaurant on the Embarcadero featuring Cajun food and a large selection of whiskeys.

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His San Ramon location lived up to his renowned reputation that has pleased San Francisco foodies for many years. The 7500 square foot restaurant features high ceilings surrounded by 14 feet glass walls with a large open kitchen designed by Olle Lunberg. It has a clean feeling of joy and excitement enhanced by the sensational aromas from the large open kitchen. It was full of energy and happy patrons enjoying the sophisticated wine and drink menu and perfectly presented food.

General Manager Bobby Quintong said, “The restaurant has been packed every night since it opened.” Reservations for dinner start at 5:30 with plans for lunch in the near future.

We especially enjoyed the warm slanted door spring rolls, shaking beef, barbecue ribs, and famous noodles designed to be shared with your foodie friends. For dessert, we savored the sweet potato donuts with blood orange creme fraiche curd and coriander sugar. Smiling with joy, MJ said, “This was much better than a birthday cake.”

In conclusion, we would highly recommend this new foodie treasure for any special occasion and look forward to returning soon.

For more information and to make reservations go to: https://www.slanteddoor-sanramon.com/

Preschool-Eighth ▪ Private ▪ College Preparatory ▪ 925.930.9000 Alamo ▪ San Ramon

BLACKHAWK LIVING 19

Health & Wellness

MEMORY: Use it or lose it!

By Dr. Asha Bajaj, Resident Since 1986

M

emory is the sum total of what we remember and gives us the capability to learn, adapt and to build relationships. It is the ability to remember past experiences, process of recall of previously learned facts, experiences, impressions, skills and habits. It is the store of things learned and retained from our activity or experience, as evidenced by modification of structure or behavior.

simultaneously that use the same perceptual domain, performance is less efficient than when performing the tasks individually.

It’s who you are, your history, your culture!

U: Use it: review, and repeat, write it down

How does memory work?

Memory works on a four step sequence of: Encoding, Consolidation, Storage and Recall.

Tips for improving Memory: GULP! G-Get it: Pay attention, listen and experience with all your senses

L: Link it:to a location, associate with something you know P: Picture it: visualize, exaggerate, color it Remember that memory is like a muscle use it or lose it!

The perceived sensations are decoded in the various sensory areas of the cortex and then combined in the brain’s hippo-campus into one single experience. The hippo-campus is then responsible for analyzing these inputs and ultimately deciding if they will be committed to long-term memory. It acts as a kind of sorting center where the new sensations are compared and associated with previously recorded ones. The various threads of information are then stored in various different parts of the brain.

The old models of memory postulated a serial process, but the newer models talk about parallel processing. As the name suggests this model proposes that memory is the activation of connections in different areas (distribution) at the same time (parallel).

Cognitive processes are conceived of as networks within which the elements have multiple links. The emphasis in this model is on the connections rather than the elements they link. Units or nodes once accessed or activated then in turn excite or inhibit other nodes through the many links that exist. The patterns of the activations that occur give rise to cognitive representations such as memory and knowledge. Learning takes place as the strength of the connections between the relevant sites is changed.

Baddeley’s model of working memory: The original model of Baddeley & Hitch was composed of three main components: the central executive which acts as supervisory system and controls the flow of information from and to its slave systems: the phonological loop and the visuo-spatial sketchpad. The phonological loop stores verbal content, whereas the visuo-spatial sketchpad caters to visuospatial data. For example you might smell a rose that activates the memory of a poem/song or a painting that evokes the presence of a friend being present -all firing different regions of the brain at the same time resulting in recall.

This theory proposed that performance of two simultaneous tasks requiring the use of two separate perceptual domains (i.e. a visual and a verbal task) is nearly as efficient as performance of the tasks individually. In contrast, when a person tries to carry out two tasks

Dr. Asha Bajaj, PT/DPT has 30+years experience in a variety of settings including the management and operation of an outpatient private practice in Walnut Creek. Asha has served in Bhutan, India, Vietnam and Malawi, Africa with Health Volunteers Overseas to train and develop their Physical therapy program. Asha has a special interest in Women’s health and did her doctoral project in the area of Bone health and Osteoporosis. Her goal is to promote health and lifelong wellness.

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Expert Contributor

What to Look For in a Contractor’s Bid

By Jon Lubrano, President, Atlantis Pools Inc.

L

et’s assume you need to hire a pool contractor for either a new pool installation or a major repair or renovation. You contacted a few local companies, and have received a few bids on the project. You will quickly notice that not all bids are created equal. There are a few red flags to look out for and a few things you should always expect to see when you receive an estimate for a project.

When receiving a bid from a pool contractor, the first thing to look for is the description of the work to be done. You want an estimate that is very detailed and thorough so there are no misunderstandings. If you receive an estimate and the description of work is vague and open to interpretation, it’s a red flag.

Next, the bid should be all-inclusive, meaning that the price on the estimate includes tax, labor and parts. The bid should not change because the contractor ran into “something unexpected.” If an estimate is created carefully there should be no hidden fees over the course of the job. The biggest red flag you can run into when collecting estimates from different companies, is receiving a bid much lower than the rest. Installing a pool is highly technical in nature. If you receive a low bid on your project, there is probably a misunderstanding somewhere. Either the scope of the work was not defined well, or misunderstood, or the products that are being sold are not comparable. It is not uncommon to go with the lowest bidder and then find “unexpected” increases in the price.

When hiring a contractor for a large project, make sure to do some investigating. Ask for their workers compensation or general liability insurance company, and then call that company to make sure the insurance is up to date. If the contractor doesn’t have valid insurance, the homeowner is responsible if something were to happen. Also, keep in mind that documents are easy to forge and some very shady contractors will produce fake documents.

That’s why calling to verify the information is important. Also verify the contractor’s license. A licensed person has the required education, experience, insurance and qualifications to obtain a license. They must pass a competency examination before practicing. Licensed individuals are screened for prior criminal history and their license can be revoke if they are not living up to professional standards. Visit www.cslb.ca.gov to verify a license.

Lastly on the list would be to make that the contractor will pull permits, the homeowner is the ultimate say on this, but this adds another layer of protection.

Get everything in writing, as descriptive as possible, and be sure to have both parties sign the contract.

At Atlantis pools our service people specialize in repairs and are backed by decades of experience. We offer a free estimate and diagnosis on all your pool needs. Please visit www. atlantispoolsdanville.com or email info@atlantispoolsdanville. com to schedule an inspection.

Raashi Design's expertise and personalized service create spaces that express your distinctive style - from one room design to whole house remodel

Before

AFTER

enquiries@RaashiDesign.com 925-236-0402 | www.RaashiDesign.com

BLACKHAWK LIVING 21

Recipe

Persian-style Quince Lime Drink

By Parisa Z. Ambwani, Resident since 1983 Persian cooks often create luxurious beverages and cuisine creations for a dining feast. Quince not only has a wonderful aroma and taste, but it also provides medicinal benefits.

Serves 8 • • • • • •

Ingredients: 8 cups spring water 4 quinces, peeled, quartered** ¼ cup culinary rose petals 2 tablespoons honey OR turbinado raw sugar to taste Juice of 1 lime, freshly squeezed

Directions: In a 4-quart pot, bring water to boil. Add quince, rose petals, cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low heat. Simmer for 1½ -2 hours or until quince is fork tender. Strain off the liquid and discard the solids. Add honey and lime juice to liquid and continue to cook for 5 more minutes. Check the consistency and sweetness and make adjustments if necessary. Let cool and serve with ice cubes. Enjoy a royal homemade quince drink.

(925) 449-1203

*Quince (Cydonia): Quince originated in Persia and Turkey. Currently the quince tree is grown in most countries. Quince is a member of the apple family, and like apple, is a source of minerals and vitamins. It is rich in natural water-soluble dietary fiber called pectin, a substance used for thickening gelatinous products. Pectin is used for making perfect jams and jellies. A ripe quince has a wonderful fragrance and is somewhat hard and dry. After slicing quince and simmering in water for a while, the pectin allows the flesh to become soft and a lovely deep rose-pink color with a floral fragrance and pleasant taste.

Quince is available mostly during fall. **For easier cutting you may wrap quince in aluminum foil, place in ovenproof dish and transfer into preheated 200-degree F. oven and bake for 45 minutes (to soften without cooking for long time the quince).

Note 1: Instead of cooking on the stove top, you may cook quince with water in a 4 quarts ovenproof pot in a 300-degree F. oven for a shorter period of time.

Note: 2: If you blend cooked quince pulps (without skin and seeds) with a little sugar and “quince-lime drink” in a power blender and freeze, the mixture you have is called quince sherbet (it is lighter than ice-cream).

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 six books that weave her beliefs into caring words on how to live life to the fullest. Learn more by visiting her website, enlightenedrecipes.com © 2017 Parisa Ambwani --All rights reserved www.enlightenedrecipes.com

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20% OFF

AND FREE DEMO ON ANY PAVER OR CONCRETE PROJECT Certain minimums apply. Call for details. Expires8/31/18 March 31, 2019

BLACKHAWK LIVING 23

Expert Contributor

Spring is in the Air

By Linda Kralik, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Resident Since 1984

W

hile most of us enjoy living in California, sometimes it is really brought home to us just how fortunate we are when we see the Midwest and East Coast slammed with the Polar Vortex leaving death and destruction in its wake. The ensuing winter and early spring storms add to their problems with flooding, land slides, wind damage and so much more. These types of weather phenomena are rare in California. Oh sure, we get some cold weather from time to time, and even a dusting of snow on our highest peak: Mt. Diablo. But never the crippling weather our sister states have to endure, year after year. So, let this be the time to welcome the beginning of spring.

If you were fortunate enough to remember to plant your bulbs in early November, get ready to reap the benefit of the beautiful array of colors they will produce in the first month of spring.

Daffodils, Tulips, Narcissus, Hyacinth, Iris, etc. are always the first sign that winter is coming to an end. These lovely colorful plants turn the dry browns and greys of the past three or four months into a potpourri of Spring colors.

Now, to truly enjoy the beginnings of spring, take a look around your home to see what needs to be done to have your home match the colorful outside. New exterior paint color? Replace old generational windows? Enhance curb appeal with new flower beds? Maybe re-sodding the front grass? And if doing so, you might consider some of the new varieties of imitation sod in case our drought conditions return? Replace the front door with something new and exciting? All of these ideas cost money, but it will also enhance your home for your own enjoyment as well as increase the value of your home.

Now you can sit back and enjoy the benefits of your enhancements.

Happy Spring!

Custom Land and Cruise Travel Experiences Lori McDonald 925-380-6208 www.McDonaldTravel.com

Independently Owned & Operated Since 2013 CST: 2034468-50

! t u o t h g i n a y o j

En

925-639-1326 24

MARCH 2019

Ladies Golf

Check out the 9ers

By Linda Marver, Resident since 2007

F

ebruary flew by and here we are in March! Mark your calendars because Daylight Savings Time begins on Sunday, March 10th! That means longer days and more time to golf. Hope everyone had the chance to attend one of the Rules Seminars hosted by Tim Burr. There are a lot of rule changes this year. Be sure and pick up a copy of the new USGA Rules of Golf 2019 in the golf shop so you have a copy with you when golfing.

Niners Calendar for March March 7th Lakes, Front/Board Meeting March 14th No Play- Lakes Aeration March 21st Falls, back March 22nd WNHGA Rules Seminar-9:30 Lakes Ballroom March 28th Lakes, Front/Charm Day January Niners Charm Day Results Charm Winner: Anne Murphy Flight A Ace of Aces Low Gross - Mary O’Leary Ace of Aces Low Net - Anne Murphy

1st Place Low Gross - Denise Mallozzi Most Improved - Lisa Rasband 2nd Place Low Gross - Linnell McRee 1st Place Low Net - Mary O’Leary 2nd Place Low Net - Lucia DeBene Low Putts - Linnell McRee Flight B 1st Place Low Gross - Peggy Punch 2nd Place Low Gross - Frances Ganz 1st Place Low Net - Donna Wamsley 2nd Place Low Net - Etienne Melcher Low Putts - Linnell McRee

Helping families who want clarity in their financial lives.

As a fiduciary at all times, I… ...provide clarity and peace to families regarding their financial lives ...serve families who have never worked with an advisor before, but are now facing one of life’s stressful transitions ...believe in knowing your aspirations, resources and risks.

Understanding these is the first step toward clarity and peace My firm exists because financial stress is far too high for the average person. A little education combined with some strategy and a lifetime of coaching provides the confidence that allow our clients to live out their years with peace, dignity, and independence.

Contact Info:

joe@jwmwealth.com Website: www.jwmwealth.com

Blackhawk resident for 13 years

BLACKHAWK LIVING 25

Health & Wellness

Is Yoga for You?

By Judi Magee, Resident since 2014

S

helby Stamets, Assistant Fitness Director, Blackhawk Fitness and Wellness Center, joins us this month, with some Q&A to dive deeper into the types and benefits of Yoga.

First, here’s more about Shelby: Shelby brings with her a diverse background of fitness and wellness experiences. Initially studying Health and Physical Education, specializing in University Recreation, she went on to complete her Sports Management Master’s degree. She is a student at heart, seeking opportunities to grow and expand. Shelby’s personal, as well as teaching, experiences include aerobics, indoor cycling, CrossFit, TRX, small group, personal training, and yoga. She completed her 200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher Certification in South Texas and has been teaching group fitness classes for 10 years.

To start, I am wondering why I should begin or continue a Yoga practice?

Shelby: A yoga practice serves as a “pause.” Setting aside time, just like you may do for your strength or cardio training, allows for that pause in life, supporting a more mindful, intentional and present mindset. The positive psychological effect is enough reason to start or continue a practice. There are significant physical benefits, as you move through thoughtful ranges of motion, listening to your breath as you flow, stretch, release, and strengthen muscles and joints. Significant benefits include: stress reduction, increased level of calm, increased mobility and flexibility. Some people experience lowered resting heart rate, weight loss, increased muscle strength and tone, improved energy, respiration, and circulatory health. Additionally, yoga can help with injury prevention and increase athletic performance. Tell me if this list isn’t convincing enough to get started!

What type of Yoga is suitable for beginners?

Shelby: If you are just starting out, I would recommend looking for classes with the titles like “Level 1”, Hatha, “Slow Flow”, “Gentle” or “Intro to Yoga”. Joining a slower paced format, like Yin Yoga or Restorative, is also a nice way to ease yourself into a yoga class. Be ready to hold poses for longer, focus on breath, and relaxation. Having patience with yourself and setting realistic expectations is recommended to anyone starting a new physical routine.

Are there Yoga classes that can help with injuries?

Shelby: I would not advise anyone with a current injury to expect yoga to “fix or repair” them. Depending on the injury, you may or may not be a good candidate to attend public, group classes. Find a personal trainer or an experienced yoga teacher that can work with you and your injury directly. If you have been cleared for exercise and know your limitations, then I would say yes! Come

to yoga! Tell the instructor the injury you are working with, or that you will be avoiding deep hamstring work, for example, and the teacher will be able to give you more appropriate variations.

With that being said, you are ultimately your own guide and make choices based on comfort and intensity level. So listen to your body please!!

What is the difference between Yoga and Pilates?

Shelby: Yoga and Pilates come from different philosophies. They both teach intention, body control, breathing techniques, strength building, increased range of flexibility, and overall mobility. They could be perceived as cousins that complement each other. Pilates tends to have a main focus on core strength and a structured fitness workout without the cardio. Yoga incorporates broad muscle groups, overall strength, complex postures, and a spiritual aspect that teachers can incorporate in class.

What is the progression of Yoga classes to take as you become more advanced?

Shelby: Some studios use Levels to label their classes, ie. Level 1-2, 2-3 Advanced, etc. so this makes it more simple to choose which class is right for you. If you find yourself in a class that IS too advanced for you, take your own modifications, slow down, and don’t force yourself to jump steps ahead as you could injure yourself. Vinyasa Flow style, Bikram, Ashtanga, or Anusara classes tend to be faster paced and more challenging as well.

What should I wear or bring to a Yoga class?

Shelby: Yoga mat, water bottle, towel for your mat if it’s a heated

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class. No shoes needed. Majority of studios provide their own props, such as blocks, bolsters, straps, blankets, sandbags, etc.

Judi Magee National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach with a Masters in Health and Wellness Coaching from Maryland University of Integrative Health.

Thanks Shelby! Such great information for those who are thinking of trying Yoga for the first time or continue to expand their knowledge and experience.

Let’s get out our mats!

Pest Control Weed Control Tree Service

925-336-0181

sanramonmusic@gmail.com www.sanramonmusic.com

• We offer private lessons in music and art, (group classes are available for art only) • Music Lessons: Violin/Viola/Piano/Guitar/ Voice and Flute • We prepare for Recitals, Auditions for Orchestras (included outside of school such as Oakland Youth Orchestra, San Francisco Youth Orchestra, Palo Alto Youth Orchestra, Berkeley Youth Orchestra and more).

• We prepare students for tests and competitions.

• In art class students will learn main principles of realistic drawing and painting including the study of composition, value, color, and pictorial space.

• Advanced students who want to pursue an artist career will develop portfolio for College submission.

Testimonials

Victoria’s love for music, appreciation for violin, and enthusiasm to with work with students of all ages and diverse backgrounds, makes her prefect as a teacher.

Iren Gullapalli, Ph.D. | San Ramon, CA--

Victoria is knowledgeable, enthusiastic and very easy to communicate with. She is always positive, encouraging and very respectful. My son is usually not very comfortable performing in front of an audience but Victoria provides plenty of activities that prepare her students to feel comfortable for the recitals. So far, my son has performed four times in the students’ recitals and has not complained yet.

Helen Lin | Livermore, CA

We are proud to support our local schools and enrich our community with high standards of teaching music and art.

We are taking a high degree of responsibility to teach and mentor the younger generation of musicians, and an artists who wants to achieve an expert level or pursue other interests having gained a skill that will bring them satisfaction throughout their entire life.

BLACKHAWK LIVING 27

Blackhawk Women Upcoming Events

By Mary Plissey, Resident since 2017

B

lackhawk Women was established in 1985 by five women with the goal of uniting women in friendship through the sharing of fun, food, and common interests for all women residents of Blackhawk and Blackhawk Country Club. 33 years later, we maintain over 300 members. Each month, we offer the members of Blackhawk Women more than 30 activities to participate in.

The benefits of becoming a member of Blackhawk Women are not limited to instant friendships, great ideas, and memories to last a lifetime.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Verve Coffee Roasters of Santa Cruz: Blackhawk Women’s Luncheon Wednesday, March 20, 2019 Verve Coffee Roasters of Santa Cruz will provide “coffee tastings” of their special, high-end coffee that uses specific coffee beans from around the world. Verve provides coffee to companies such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Salesforce and others. Verve’s “story” will include information on what constitutes a “good” cup of coffee, how and where the beans are procured and the process involved in the roasting. Join us for lunch and this beautiful tasting.

Save the Date:

Blackhawk Women Annual Fashion Show: Wednesday, April 17, 2019. There will be 7 Danville stores participating: 1001 Collections; Christina’s Fine Clothing; Elisa Wen; JMcLaughlin’s; Moda Mi; The Rouge Cosmetics; Stone Cold Luxe.

Duckhorn Winery Wine Tasting & Presentation: Wednesday, May 15, 2019 Other Activities Include: Book Buzz, Bridge, Bunco, Culinary, Hand & Foot, Knit & Stitch, Mah-Jongg, Mexican Train Dominoes, Movie Divas, TGIF, Wine & Dine, & Other GREAT EVENTS!

JOIN US!

Annual Membership is only $60 Please visit our website to JOIN US! http://www.blackhawkwomen.com/about You can also E-Mail marlene.m.williamson@gmail.com

28

MARCH 2019

Community Safety

Why Property and Personal Crime Costs May Increase

By Aaron “Wally” Barger, Resident since 2012

R

esidents in California have experienced an influx of crimes over the past five years. Blackhawk residents, unfortunately, have experienced a similar, although not as dramatic, rise over the same time frame. Property and Personal crimes fluctuate from year to year for various reasons.

The California penal system has experienced an overwhelming increase in the number of felons incarcerated in our State prison facilities. California state prisons’ inmate population has been as high as fifty (50%) percent or more above the accepted standard prison population.

The California courts have ruled that the State’s prisons avoid inflicting “cruel and unusual punishments” upon the inmate population by restricting the number of inmates held to no more than one hundred (100 %) percent of a prison’s legal capacity, which has reduced the number of inmates they house.

In 2011, California voters passed AB 109 (Realignment), which allowed the diversion of persons convicted of less serious felonies from prison to county jails. This has lead to placing more nonviolent criminals in county jail facilities for short-term incarcerations. In the case of Proposition 47, the courts downgraded the seriousness of the theft of property valued less than nine hundred and fifty ($950) dollars to less than a month of jail time.

What does all this have to do with Blackhawk? Well, even though most of us are living in gated communities with private guards and a dedicated police force provided by the County Sheriff’s Department, the costs for such services are increasing. In 1984, the County Board of Supervisors formed the P2-A County Service Area to provide enhanced police services and funded the service area through a Special County Parcel Tax. The purpose of this tax was to fund and provide additional law enforcement services, beyond those routinely provided by the County Sheriff’s office to unincorporated areas. This directly affects all residents living within the P2-A boundaries, which includes several HOAs and the businesses in the Blackhawk Plaza.

Such actions by state legislators and court officials have lead to a predictable rise in crimes. Further, casework and fieldwork in many criminal cases is compromised because of the increasing workload of officers.

The County Supervisors, in 1985, formed an Advisory Committee of local residents in the service area to advise and assist the county in providing police services.

Today, because of increasing demand for additional protection, the County

has three officers and a Chief providing police services.

The parcel tax for each residential home was increased in fiscal year 2006-7 to two hundred and eighty ($280) dollars per year and has remained at this level since then. The County staff and the P2-A Advisory Committee are considering a variety of options to sustain the level of operations in the area. Over the next few months the County and the P2-A Advisory Committee will be developing a ballot for a special election possibly with a vote in August to raise the parcel tax.

The P2-A Advisory Committee and other public interest organizations will be disseminating additional information on this ballot measure over the coming months. If you have any questions you can contact me at aaron.barger@yahoo.com.

BLACKHAWK LIVING 29

Expert Contributor

The Beauty of Boredom

By Peggy Arman, The Dorris-Eaton School

“I

’m bored” is often accompanied by eye rolling and slumped posture, which sends many of today’s parents into “uberparent mode.” If kids are bored, soccer, piano, and Spanish may not be enough. Should an art class be added? With the best of intentions, many parents believe they should eliminate periods of time when their children aren’t feeling entertained or stimulated.

However, when the majority of the day is choreographed by the adults, children miss valuable lessons and skills acquired from unscheduled time. Experiencing boredom and constructively responding to it sets realistic expectations for life, stimulates creativity, and cultivates self-reliance.

In the 70’s and 80’s when a road trip didn’t entail downloading podcasts, movies, or games, siblings had to figure out how to fend off boredom. Discussions often centered around which radio station to listen to and what game to play. Territorial disputes - the comical “You’re on my side!” complaint - developed the ability to negotiate. For the most part, parents left children to settle their own quarrels, so they learned to work together and compromise.

Trial and error allowed children to identify strategies that work, honing their powers of persuasion.Running out of things to do is

also fertile ground to develop creativity and imagination.

Unforeseen things happen when children experience monotony.

Adding another class is not what’s needed, and parents aren’t neglecting their responsibilities by providing unstructured time.

Boredom is useful. Eliminating the “noise” that comes from video games, television, and electronic devices opens a space for discovery. Building a fort, concocting something in the kitchen, or drawing may be how time is spent. When children are responsible for entertaining themselves--they day dream, create stories, or invent. Great ideas, and some not so great, are born in quiet time. It’s the process that takes place that’s valuable. When everything isn’t exciting or it takes several attempts to make something work, children develop a realistic view of life.

Parents know every aspect of their job isn’t entertaining, enriching, or stimulating. This is not to say a chosen occupation isn’t meaningful… every part of a career isn’t. There are mundane tasks to be done. When children have to struggle with disinterest, they come to the realization that not all parts of life are enjoyable.

By providing times for children to grapple with humdrum activities and constructively cope, parents are countering the life their children see on Instagram or SnapChat, where life is portrayed as a series of good times.

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Raising children in this age of soccer moms, helicopter parents, tiger moms, and most recently, lawnmower parents, can make it difficult to determine how much parental involvement is best for children. Balancing the opportunities inherent in quality extra-curricular activities with the realities of daily living is the key. Providing down time for your children and having them responsible for tackling the possible dullness prepares them for life after they leave home. The beauty of boredom is the skills your children acquire as they work through tedium.

Source: Pamela Paul’s New York Times article “Let Children Get Bored Again.”

www.BlackhawkLivingCA.com 30

MARCH 2019

Blackhawk: Life through a Lens

Let it snow! It’s showtime in Squaw!

By Sonia Lamba, Resident since 2015 Colorful winter fireworks display at Squaw Village

I

t’s a winter wonderland at Squaw Valley, Lake Tahoe, one of my family’s favorite destinations, with more than 390” of cumulative snowfall so far this season (at 8000 ft. as of Feb. 10, 2019). “Sierra travel is highly discouraged. Dangerous Avalanche conditions!” is a warning I heard often this winter.

Squaw is one of the most popular ski resorts and a favorite among a majority of the skiers in the Lake Tahoe region due to its hair-raising and challenging steeps, Olympic heritage and wonderful base village (6000 ft.), which is a packed with lots of entertainment, shopping and food all day long. I also look forward to the spectacular winter fireworks in the village that light up the night sky every Saturday during the ski season.

I myself don’t ski, but embarking on a 10 minute tram ride to High Camp (8,200 ft.) and soaring above the mountainous terrain is both a scary and a thrilling experience for me. High Camp captures a bird’s-eye view of the blue waters of Lake Tahoe soaked in sun, it’s surrounding landscapes, and the beauty of winter snow; definitely a surreal experience for a camera lover like me. There is also an Olympic Museum if one wants to browse through Squaw’s Olympic history when it hosted the Winter Olympics in 1960.

Back home, winter storms also brought rare snow to Mt. Diablo that attracted large numbers of excited people to the summit, its highest peak. And as for me, I enjoyed the breathtaking backyard views of snow covered Diablo peaks from the comfort of my home in beautiful Blackhawk.

Gorgeous views of snow covered Mt. Diablo from my backyard

Squaw Village this winter season

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!

BLACKHAWK LIVING 31

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32

MARCH 2019

Monte Vista High School

High School Kaleidoscope

By Ananya Lamba, Junior Reporter

F

ourth quarter has arrived, which means it is time for the annual Monte Vista musical. The Monte Vista Drama team put together an amazing musical called All shook Up! This musical features music by Elvis Presley and is based on William Shakespeare’s play Twelfth night. It is about a motorcycle-rider named Chad who rides from town to town with a guitar on his back. Towns come alive under Chad’s influence. This was a magical play that truly got you singing and dancing along to the beat. I can’t wait to watch the upcoming comedy play in April!

All the Mustangs got together to celebrate our school spirit during our annual winter rally. The whole school got together in the gym and had a great time watching our cheerleaders and band put on an amazing performance. We also enjoyed watching a handful of students participate in fun mini games, such as cup stacking or hitting a piñata. Rallies always allow students to feel proud of their school and feel part of a family.

Winter is sadly coming to an end, but spring is slowly approaching.

I love traveling to Tahoe and enjoying amazing powder days!

Spring, however, has its pros as well. I cannot wait for the sunny days and the beautiful flowers. Most importantly, I can’t wait for spring break!

Ananya Lamba attends Monte Vista High School. She loves reading and writing for they allow her to share her thoughts with her readers and explore various worlds. She also has a passion for skiing and ice-skating. For 3 years and counting Ananya has been a member of the Dublin Dolls and Dazzlers Synchronized Skating Team.

Her team takes her and her family across the country for competitions, where she has won many awards.

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BLACKHAWK LIVING 33

Expert Contributor

How to Create a Ring Stack

By Steve Padis, Steve Padis Jewelry, Resident Since 1989

Stacking (or layering) rings is a beautiful jewelry trend. It’s not only a way to wear a variety of rings, but also a way to express yourself and remember meaningful milestones in your life.

What is ring stacking?

Ring stacking (or layering) is a jewelry trend where you wear multiple rings on one or multiple fingers. Many ring stackers start off by adding anniversary rings to their engagement ring and wedding band. However, ring stacking doesn’t have to include wedding rings.

How do I stack my rings?

There are no rules when it comes to stacking rings. Here are some tips to get you started. Mix rings you already own with new rings you have your eye on. You don’t have to buy all new rings to create the perfect stack. Assess what you already own and which rings would complement each other when stacked.

Incorporate gemstones. If you’re into the gemstone look, stacking is a fun way to express it. Many people have a strong connection to their birthstone, and others identify with another gemstone like sapphire or ruby. Using a gemstone or two in your stack adds color and energy.

Mix simple dainty bands with chunky diamond bands. Don’t worry if two rings aren’t perfectly stacked. Instead, the rings should have an overall cohesive look.

Don’t be afraid to mix different metals and band widths. Stacking rose gold with yellow gold is perfectly acceptable. In fact, many ring stackers prefer the unmatched look. Same goes for band width.

How many fingers should I stack?

It’s up to you how many fingers you want to use when ring stacking. As a general guideline, we recommend you either wear a couple of rings on multiple fingers, or multiple rings on one or two fingers. Both large and small stacks make a bold statement.

Why is ring stacking a trend?

Similar to the bracelet layering trend, ring stacking is a fashion trend. It’s a way to express your personal style through your love of diamonds and gemstones.

Another reason women start stacking rings is to honor a milestone or occasion in their life. A wedding band is a representation of marriage, but there are so many more moments worth

remembering. Anniversaries, the birth of children, and the passing of a loved one are a few examples. Wearing a ring that symbolizes that life event is a daily reminder of the mark it made on your life.

If you’re ready to shop for wedding bands and stacking rings, our non-commissioned jewelry experts are ready to guide you to the perfect choice! Get started by scheduling a visit to the Padis Jewelry showroom. Feel free to contact us at Padis Jewelry at concierge@padisjewelry.com.

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MARCH 2019

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BLACKHAWK LIVING 35

Blackhawk 0482

LIVING

We’re bullish on the future. Yours.

The world is changing fast. While change can provide opportunities, it also raises questions about the future. Through honest conversations about your life and your priorities, we’ll find out what you want your future to look like, and develop a strategy together to help make it happen.

The Morasky Clay Group Mark Morasky, AAMS®, CRPC®, CPFA Senior Vice President Senior Financial Advisor 925.945.4879

Merrill Lynch 1331 N. California Boulevard Suite 400 Walnut Creek, CA 94596

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AAMS® is a registered service mark of The College for Financial Planning. CRPC® is a registered service mark of The College for Financial Planning. © 2018 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

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