Blackhawk Living CA March 2023

Jim Long:

Image courtesy of Kim Lind Photography

“Marry Me March” with Padis Jewelry featuring Tacori & A Jaffe is Here! Expert Contributor

Near Misses”

Jo Peek

Dear Neighbors,

Publication Team

Publisher: Jo Peek, Blackhawk Resident since 2014

Content Coordinator: Megan Scott Blackhawk Resident since 2010

Designer: Emily Lund

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. © 2023 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

Blackhawk Living Magazine is celebrating a big milestone this month: our eight-year anniversary! We are thrilled and honored to have had the opportunity to serve our community with a local magazine for the past 96 months and look forward to many more.

This month we are introducing you to your neighbor, Jim Long. Jim is living life in the fast lane with his Team Long Racing and Custom Car Business.

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 12th, 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 seven 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.

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

Expert Contributors

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

Auto Sales & Service

Kerri Anderson

Pleasanton Automall

Kerri.Anderson@hendrickauto.com

925-737-5062

Chiropractic

Plaza Chiropractic & Massage Therapy

Dr. Max Lippman, D.C.

925-964-9189

drmax@blackhawkchiropractor.com

Website www.blackhawkchiropractor.com

Cosmetic Surgery

Stephen J. Ronan MD FACS

Blackhawk Plastic Surgery and Migraine Center 925-736-5757

www.blackhawkplasticsurgery.com

Custom Window Coverings

Elite Shutters & Shadings

Janice Tracy, Lead designer 925-243-9066

www.Eliteshadings.com

Dance

The Dancer’s Institute

Lacey Price 510-703-7630

https://www.thedancersinstitute.com/

Dentist

Dr. Larry Porteous DDS

Larry Porteous Family Dentistry 925-736-9000

Home Maintenance Home Inspections Plus

Mark Beck

925-240-0441

m.beck@localinspector.com

www.localinspector.com

Insurance

Roger Fernando State Farm Roger Fernando Agency 925-244-1700

roger@rogerfernando.com

Investigations

The Frame Group

www.TheFrameGroup.com

9000 Crow Canyon Road, Suite 395

Danville, California 94506

Tel: 1.925.837.8309 | Fax: 1.925.837.8737

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.

We offer the highest quality window treatments available, and we also provide custom design, measurement, and installation services. Our experts are dedicated to providing our clients with high quality window treatments that can improve your home. Our window treatments are custom-designed to be the perfect fit for your interior decor, your home’s energy efficiency needs, and your personal taste.

We are a new dance school serving the San Ramon Valley area. We are striving to bring proper technique to students in a firm but friendly environment. We believe in fostering the passion to move in a dancer and creating an environment where that passion can grow and mature. Technique, creativity, passion and love are all elements of dance in which we want to see our students find success by taking class at our studio.

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.

At Home Inspections Plus, we have two basic rules: client satisfaction and long-term relationships. With our many years of business experience and over 6,000 fee paid inspections, we believe after you try our service, you will gladly refer others to us and use us in the future. Realtor and consumer inquiries welcome!

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.

Michael F. Framé received his formal investigative training from the United States Department of Justice (FBI), the United States Secret Service, IRS, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) while serving as an undercover narcotics investigator assigned to the Vice Crimes Division of the Oakland Police Department. This training included asset identification and discovery, money laundering, fraud, financial crimes, business intelligence, organized and whitecollar crime, narcotics processing, sales, possession, and influence.

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

Mortgage

CrossCountry Mortgage LLC

W. Todd Galde

925-854-5238

todd.galde@myccmortgage.com

www.toddgalde.com

Music: Soloist & Private Voice Lessons

Elizabeth Hunter Ashley

The Performance Studio

925-548-2694

Elizabeth@elizabethhunterashley.com

www.elizabethhunterashley.com

Pool Service

Jon Lubrano

Atlantis Pools

925-736-0447

info@atlantispoolsdanville.com

atlantispoolsdanville.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

Wealth Advisor WestPac Wealth Partners

Phil Kang, CExPTM

Henry Chau, CPWA®

925-350-6588

info@westpacwealth.com

www.westpacwealth.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.

After more than 20 years, Todd Galde has mastered the process of helping borrowers with different income sources, matching the correct loan to their unique circumstances. We teach and advise, then we customize. A Direct Lender, Team Galde offers solutions with competitive rates and financing programs that give you more qualifying options, including the unique NINE Loan for owner-occupied purchase or refinance. Learn more at www.The9Loan.com.

Professional lyric coloratura soprano, Elizabeth has extensive experience as a soloist in oratorio, concert, musical theatre, sacred music, and new music. She performs nationally and internationally with renown conductors, orchestras, composers, international communities, and holds a myriad of national credits including MM degree. As the proprietor of her vocal music studio, she has taught 300+ private students from youth to mature adults offering them a sustainable vocal technique, biannual voice recitals which include philanthropic fund raisers, music connections in the community, performance preparation for high school top choirs, vocal competitions, college prep. recordings, pageant training. Elizabeth is a member of NATS, CCMTAC, an adjudicator for CMEA, and NATS.

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.

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.

Uniquely positioned to offer our clients access to one of the most comprehensive financial product platforms available today, Westpac envisions and enhances our clients’ goals by designing a customized strategy and creating a life map to achieve and protect their wealth.

Meet Jim Long: Life in the Fast Lane

By Megan Scott, Resident since 2010 | Photos courtesy of Kim Lind Photography

After a lifetime spent admiring, collecting, and racing cars, long-time Blackhawk resident, Jim Long, purchased a one-owner, 1967 Mustang from his Blackhawk neighbor Tom Graffeo, and spent his time during COVID building his dream car: Eleanor. Eleanor is a customized, 1967 Ford Mustang that was featured in the 2000 film Gone in 60 Seconds. “I decided to take on that project during Covid, and while building it, I began getting requests to build cars for other people,” says Jim. And so began the launch of Moto Visions, a custom car building shop making automotive dreams come true for their clients. Because of his connections and history in the racing industry, the customer base for Moto Visions materialized quickly. “One thing led to another, and we quickly outgrew our original location and needed a larger shop. That’s how we moved to the new facility,” says Jim.

The facility he is referring to is the new Moto Visions headquarters and is also a historic local landmark in San Ramon. “The compound where we are located was a 1950s missile facility, with the original bunker and launch center under our shop floor. This Nike missile site was known as SF-25L, which operated from 1956 to 1959. These missile sites were buried deep within the earth in heavily fortified underground encasements along with missile warhead magazines. The missiles would have been brought to the surface by a large missile elevator, which is preserved and still in place today. These missiles would communicate with a radar and the control site a few miles away. Communication was through buried cable or microwave. This site was designed for the Nike Ajax missile that could cover a range of 25 miles,” says Jim.

Jim is also the head of Team Long Racing, which started when he discovered the thrill of road racing, “I founded Team Long Racing after spending my early years drag racing and building cars and engines. I discovered the excitement of road racing and became hooked. It started with a 125-shifter go-kart on a short sprint racetrack, from there the pavement broke loose. Team Long races both high speed Karts and full-size cars including a GTCS custom in-house built blown Mustang with over 1000 horsepower. I’m a long-time member of the (Bay Area Cobra Club) BACC, I also have a seat on the board of two car clubs the (Northern California Karters) NCK

and NorCal Shelby Club where I operate as the treasurer for both clubs along with assisting in operations,” says Jim.

A man of many hats, who loves to stay busy, Jim is also the president of S&J Properties, a home design build firm. A Blackhawk resident since 1991, Jim and his wife, Julie Long have been married for 33 years. Julie has been an active, top-producing realtor in Blackhawk/Danville for almost 25 years, known as “Julie Long Team” under the broker Coldwell Banker Global Luxury.

Officially empty nesters, Jim and Julie raised their two kids in Blackhawk. Both attended Tassajara Hills Elementary School, Diablo Vista Middle School, and Monte Vista High School. They were both active in sports and community events.

Their daughter Courtney is 25 years old and graduated from High Point University. She now lives in Danville working for Medix as a Client Success Manager. Her boyfriend, Jeff Versnel, also graduated from High Point University, works at Moto Visions and is a new driver on Team Long Racing.

Their son Ryan is 23 years old and graduated from the University of Iowa. He now lives in San Francisco, working for the Bank of Montreal in finance.

Jim and the Moto Visions team recently held an open house to invite the community into their new location. Over 1,000 people attended. In case you missed it, feel free to reach out to Jim for a tour. It’s the perfect place for anyone who has a passion for speed, precision, technology, style and customizing automobiles.

ARF Adoption Stars

By Christa Noriega, ARF Adoption Manager

Harlequin Douglas

Adopt

a new best friend at ARF in Walnut Creek! View available dogs and cats online or visit ARF in-person: Wednesday-Sunday, 12-6pm, with early-bird sign-in available on weekdays beginning at 9 am. Our team is excited to guide you in choosing a pet, share information about their history and behavior, and provide helpful resources. This process can take time—please allow 60-90 minutes for in-person appointments. Here are a few of our adorable animals looking for love:

Four-year-old Douglas is a fabulous, easygoing boy with a penchant for cuddles and loves. While he’s low-key, he also loves a good play session and won’t turn up his nose at some fun and a good romp! This handsome boy has already started his doggie education and knows ‘sit’ and ‘shake’. He would love to continue stimulating his sharp mind and learning more tricks and obedience training, especially to earn tasty treats as this pup is highly food motivated. He would also love to get plenty of physical exercise and he will be a great buddy to encourage you to have a more active and healthy lifestyle. Your life will be so much better with Douglas in it, as he’s sure to make a loving, loyal, and life-enriching companion .He has a positive history with other dogs and currently weighs 52 pounds.

One-year-old Harlequin is an incredible young lady with a disposition beyond her age. This bubbly gal is like sunshine on four legs, and her soothing warmth is a joy to be around. She will endearingly and gently request pets and attention, and the soft, soulful look in her eyes will tell you how much she loves and appreciates you. She is also fun little lady who enjoys an energetic romp with doggy pal, and she’d appreciate an adopter who will provide her with plenty of play and adventure to accompany all the loves. Truly, Harlequin is a total gem of a dog who you do not want to miss! She currently weighs 43 pounds. Bonus: Harlequin’s adoption fee has been prepaid by a generous donor

ARF adoption fees: $250 for an adult dog, $375 for a puppy (<6 months), $150 for a special-needs dog, $200 for a special-needs puppy (<6 months), and $150 for a senior dog (7+ years). Adoption fees are waived for US military Veterans.

Active Real Estate Listings in Blackhawk

Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the listings of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the real estate community in the area. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS March

Thurs., March 2

Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss Celebration

@Danville Community Center

Don’t miss your favorite Dr. Seuss stories, fun and zany crafts, and many more surprises! Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Though the Dr. Seuss birthday party is for children aged 4-9, we understand that sometimes your younger children love Dr. Seuss just as much as your 4-9 year old. The Town of Danville and the Danville Library will allow your 1-3 year old to attend with their older sibling at a discounted rate. Parents are required to attend with their child(ren). For more information, call the Danville Community Center at 925-314-3400. Time: 4:30pm

Sun., March 5

Go Hox Summer Swim Kick Off Event

@Blackhawk Pool

Join us on March 6, 2022, for our annual HOX Summer Swim Kickoff Event. You don’t want to miss this HOX event. Order your suits, caps and HOX apparel, catch up with our coaches and reconnect with old friends. Mini HOX families are welcome. The Summer 2022 Theme will be revealed, so save the date in your calendar now!

Sat., March 18 - Sun., March 19

City of Dublin’s St. Patrick’s Day Festival

@City of Dublin

The 38th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Celebration will be held Saturday and Sunday. This celebration will feature both virtual community events as well as in-person, reservation-based events throughout the City of Dublin. Visit https://www.dublin.ca.gov/ for more details.

Sat., Mar. 25

Children’s Book Launch Party by local author and illustrator

@Ygnacio Valley Library, Walnut Creek

Local author Kara Navolio will read her new picture book Maggie Discovers the Rainbow, a magical colorful adventure. There will also be a special presentation by

the illustrator, Tracie Timmer, discussing how the process of illustrating picture books works. Activities for kids, book signing and refreshments. All are welcome to join. Sponsored by the Walnut Creek Library Foundation. More information at www.karanavolio.com.

Cost: Free Time: 11am-12pm

Fri., March 31

The Life and Music of Paul McCartney

@Danville Village Theatre

Celebrate the music of legendary Paul McCartney with Stroll Down Penny Lane. Time: 7:30pm

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

Sun., Apr. 2

Story time at the Bedford Gallery

@Bedford Gallery, Walnut Creek

A special story time will feature a reading of the new picture book “Maggie Discovers the Rainbow” by local author Kara Navolio, followed by an art project by local children’s book illustrator Tracie Timmer and an opportunity to enjoy the color immersive experience of the Bedford Gallery’s current exhibition Erin Fong l The Sensation of Color. Last day to see this colorful exhibit.

Cost: $10 per family

Time: 11am-12pm

A message from your Blackhawk Police Chief

By Lieutenant Jeff Schultz, Chief of Police, Blackhawk Police Services

Witha turn of the calendar, we say goodbye to 2022 and welcome in 2023, with hopes this year will provide a safe and prosperous year for the community of Blackhawk.

Throughout the past year we continued to navigate through the Covid -19 pandemic, where our daily lives were most likely altered in one way or another. However, throughout the year we experienced the lifting of many restrictions, and in many cases, saw a bit more normalcy return to society and the Blackhawk community. As we push onward, I am optimistic we will continue to see things improve, and though it is unlikely society will function exactly how it did prior to this pandemic, the thought of returning to a time pre pandemic is something all are eagerly awaiting.

This past year brought a few changes to your Blackhawk District Police team. After nearly 10 years of dedicated service to Blackhawk, Deputy Anthony Maldonado retired. Deputy Maldonado left some big shoes to fill with his absence, but like we see very often within the Sheriff’s Office, the departure of one makes way for an opportunity for another. Deputy David Sandy jumped at this opportunity and became the newest Blackhawk Deputy.

The year also brought the retirement of Chief Tricia England after three years as Chief. I replaced Chief England nearly one year ago, and I am very grateful and honored to be your Chief. I thank Blackhawk for welcoming me as Chief and look forward to continuing my service within this great community.

With these changes come new personnel, however staffing remains the same. We start 2023 fully staffed with 3 deputies and a Chief. Staffing remaining the same is good news, however there are challenges moving forward when discussing staffing levels and the overall budget. 2022 brought significant inflation causing nearly every common expense to increase. Our fiscal year runs from July 1 through June 30. During the past fiscal year, we felt pain at the pumps, as gas prices rose to unprecedented highs, causing our monthly fleet expense to rise. These increases along with other factors caused the Blackhawk Police District to close the 2021/2022 fiscal year $58,822 over budget, requiring the district to pull from its reserve funds. Unfortunately, we see no relief in these inflationary pressures in the new fiscal year, and projections suggest we will be over budget once again, causing another withdrawal from reserve funds to balance the budget.

Although financial struggles are undoubtedly in the future for the coming years, as your Chief I am committed to this community and will do everything in my power to assure it receives the best service possible with the resources we have.

To view a line item report of revenue and expenditures please refer to January’s issue of the “Blackhawk Beat” distributed by your homeowners associations.

With a close to 2022 we can now compare crime statistics and calls for service with the preceding year. Crime statistics were mostly similar across the board, with significant differences in just a few categories. There was an 6% increase in total amount of calls for the year, which was expected as we continued to pull out of the pandemic.

Much of the increase can be attributed to more “Traffic Enforcement” which rose by 129 incidents, and “Security Check/Patrol Requests” which saw an increase of 484 calls. Unfortunately, we did not make it

through the year without a burglary and ended the year with 3 residential burglaries, (2 in January and 1 in November). Though I’m sure this will raise concern with many, what the community needs to know is that this number is extremely low compared to the areas surrounding Blackhawk. While 0 is always the best number to see in this statistic, achieving this goal is extremely rare, even for a community like Blackhawk. In the latter half of 2022, the Sheriff’s Office saw a dramatic rise in home burglaries in most immediate areas surrounding Blackhawk, such as Alamo, Danville, Diablo, and unincorporated Walnut Creek. During this time, it was not uncommon to have multiple burglaries reported just over a weekend, or 2–3-day period. The fact Blackhawk experienced 1 burglary in this same period speaks to the safety and security of the community. I believe these infrequent incidents are due to the dedicated service provided by not only your Blackhawk police force, but by the Sheriff’s Office Valley Station Deputies, as well as the Blackhawk Homeowners Association privacy staff.

I will end with traffic accidents, where we had a slight reduction in crashes. The fortunate news to report is, many of these accidents were slow speed, non-injury, solo vehicle crashes that resulted in property damage only. As a reminder, please be courteous and respectful while operating a vehicle to both, other drivers, and pedestrians. Drive safe, obey speed limits, and avoid any distracted driving.

From all of us here at the Blackhawk Police, we wish you a safe and healthy 2023!

The Alamo School Education Fund Gala

By Rachel Berger

The Alamo School Education Fund is looking for support for our “Havana Nights” Live Auction/Gala taking place Saturday, April 15th. This fun evening will include a cocktail hour, silent auction, live auction, raffles, dinner and dancing.

What is the Alamo Ed Fund?

The Alamo School Education Fund is a volunteer-led 501c3 non-profit organization and an affiliate of the San Ramon Valley Education Foundation. Our mission is to raise money from families and the community to maintain and enhance the quality of education and the environment at Alamo School. The Ed Fund was established to bridge the gap between public funding and the funding necessary to provide all of the resources and activities that we have at Alamo.

We are the 2nd lowest funded Unified School District in the state of California, and Alamo Elementary is one of the lowest-funded schools in our district! We depend on our community to help raise the funds required to deliver award-winning education for our children that are not covered by state and local funding.

How does the Alamo Ed Fund use the money raised?

We work to enrich the education of all Alamo School students with weekly music instruction, art, technology, chorus and chimes, reading intervention specialists and additional librarian hours. We also fund our amazing paraeducators who assist classroom teachers by offering small group and 1:1 support to help students meet or exceed grade level standards. All of these resources helped make Alamo a 2023 California Distinguished School due to the support of our community and hard-working volunteers.

Please email alamo.edfund@srvef.org for more information

• Vacation rentals or other travel accommodations

• Gift cards in any amount to local shops or restaurants

• Wine or wine tasting experiences

• Tickets to sporting events, museums or other family experiences

• Rounds of golf

• Party or catering services

• Celebrity/athlete meet & greet or autographed memorabilia

• Unique experiences (corporate tours, backstage passes, etc…)

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES:

Our “Havana Nights” Gala can provide advertising opportunities for your business! We are looking for sponsors to help offset costs of the event. Your business name and logo can be incorporated into the event advertising, program, signage, and website.

We are also looking for underwriters for special services and experiences at the event. Email alamo,edfund@srvef.org or go to https://alamoedfund.schoolauction.net/auction23/give/list to snag a sponsorship opportunity!

Attend our live auction:

Our “Havana Nights” Gala will be taking place Saturday, April 15th, at Round Hill Country Club. This fun evening includes cocktail hour, dinner, silent and live auction, raffles, dancing and more! Havana Nights attire is encouraged. Tickets are on sale now through March 27th at https://alamoedfund.schoolauction.net/auction23/ homepages/show.

Contact info: alamo.edfund@srvef.org

Instagram: @alamoedfund

Website: https://ales.srvusd.net/Families/Education-Fund/index.html Thank you for any support you are able to offer at this time.

The Alamo School Education Fund 2023 Auction Team

100 Wilson Road Alamo, CA 94507

The PGA Golf Club – Dye Course

By Chuck Fox, Owner, Quintessential Golf, Resident since 2012

Our afternoon round at the PGA Golf Club Dye course in Port St. Lucie, Florida was an unforgettable thrill. Perfect Florida weather combined with impeccably grooming results in a great day of golf.

Developed by the PGA of America, PGA Village is a community built around learning and playing the game of golf. It serves as the winter home to PGA professionals. PGA Village includes the PGA Golf Club, the PGA Center for Learning and Performance (see separate article) and the PGA Education Center, the training forum for PGA apprentice professionals. Although the PGA moved their national headquarters to Texas, the PGA Golf Club remains a gem.

A special treat is a walk through the PGA Gallery in the clubhouse. Replicas of all four of golf’s major trophies including the original Wanamaker trophy and the current Ryder Cup trophy are on display. With player memorabilia from the PGA Championship and the Ryder Cup, the PGA Gallery is a must-see, then a drink or lunch in the comfy Taplow Pub next door tops it off.

The PGA Golf Club comprises three incredible courses. The Dye Course by Pete Dye, the Wanamaker Course by Tom Fazio honoring Rodman Wanamaker who spearheaded the PGA in 1916 and the Ryder Course, honoring Samuel Ryder who started the first Ryder Cup in 1927. According to the Golf Magazines 2016-17 rankings, Wanamaker Course ranks #23 in Florida and the Dye Course ranks #30. We played the Dye Course.

The Dye Course at PGA Golf Club Champion Bermuda grass has flourished on the new greens and the surfaces are exceptional. A mix of Paspalum and Celebration Bermuda on the fairways achieves better color with tremendous heat and humidity tolerance. Unlike some Florida courses, they over-seed everything with Rye grass in the winter. Hence, besides the fairway, the rough is also green not brown.

A firm mix of crushed gravel and sand for cart paths is indistinguishable from waste bunkers even near the tee grounds. This natural minimalist approach may have helped the PGA Golf Club achieve Audubon International Signature Status - a higher level “beyond compliance” classification.

Waste bunkers are immense and are integral to the course, often guarding water hazards. The Par4 Hole #4 diagonal waste bunker on this short dogleg right is penalizing if you bite off more fairway than you can carry. Greens are large but often with false fronts and considerable undulations. Hence, the approach and pitching landing areas are smaller requiring more precision. Clumps of tall wispy grass often guard the fairway bunkers providing a more punitive location than the bunker itself.

Our experience at Dye Course leaves us thrilled yet deprived because we didn’t play the other two courses. This is some of the finest golf in Florida.

If You Go:

Course Info – The PGA Golf Club (www.pgavillage.com) is a semiprivate club owned by the PGA of America with 54 holes comprising the Ryder, Wanamaker, and Dye 18-hole courses and open to

members, PGA professionals, and the public.

Location – Minutes from Interstate 95 in Port St. Lucie, Florida about 10 miles inland from the Atlantic Ocean. About 120 miles south of the Orlando airport and 30 miles north of the West Palm Beach airport. Google Maps

Lodging – The Sheraton PGA Vacation Resort is in PGA Village. Hilton, Hampton, Holiday Inn, Mainstay Suites are within a few miles.

Quintessential Golf (https://www.quintessentialgolf.com)

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.

Range

Massive Bunkering

Ryder Cup Trophy

Don

t Miss the March Book Sale!

By Cynthia Sofranac, Co-Chair of Membership, Friends of the Danville Library

Did you know that the Friends of the Danville Library hold monthly book sales?

Be sure to go to the March sale on Saturday the 25th, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the library’s Mt. Diablo Room. The prices can’t be beat! Most books are priced at $2.00 for hard covers and $1.00 for paperbacks—even less for children’s chapter books. Every sale offers a little bit of everything: fiction, nonfiction, classics, vintage, cookbooks and crafts, art and music. There is also a selection of new fiction and nonfiction (2020 to 2023) priced slightly higher from $3.00 to $5.00. Credit cards now accepted—with all proceeds benefiting our Danville Library.

And while you’re at it, bring book donations to the Bookstore that day! The Bookstore accepts books daily (except Sundays) 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Want to volunteer? Just leave your name and phone number at the Bookstore and be part of the fun!

Did you know that Danville’s Library Teen Advisory Board is the largest teen board in the county? Or that this past July marked the return of large family programs at the library like the Puppet Art Theater? The Friends of the Danville Library was established in 1958 to help with all these amazing programs and much more. So join the Friends organization—just pick up a membership form in the Bookstore. As a member, you’ll know all about the Bookstore happenings, its sales and events, plus receive discounts on store merchandise, be able to request books, and, most important, you’ll make a difference to our great community library!

The Blackhawk Chorus Updates

By Katherine Helms | Photographer credit: Theisen Imagery

TheBlackhawk Chorus sang to sold out performances in December for their winter program “Home for the Holidays”! They performed four concerts in a jam-packed weekend: two with the Diablo Symphony in Walnut Creek, one at Monte Vista High School, and their biannual dinner show at the Blackhawk Country Club. Their performance set featured traditional holiday hits such as Deck the Hall and three pieces from Handel’s Messiah (including the Hallelujah Chorus), and surprised guests with a beautiful medley from John Williams’ score of the movie Home Alone. The Blackhawk Chorus is made up of almost 100 members, and includes two specialty groups. Bella Voce--meaning “beautiful voice”--is an all female ensemble who woo’ed the audience with their rendition of “Man with a Bag” (pictured in their gray shawls). The Blackhawk Jazz--featured in their winter white garb--crooned “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” and shooed away “Jack Frost Get Lost.”

Upcoming Performances:

“Sounds of the American Spirit”

Saturday, May 6th @ 6pm Dinner Show

Blackhawk Country Club

Join the Blackhawk Chorus as we celebrate America and its wonderfully unique sounds throughout history. Director Ken Abrams will lead you on a joyful journey through time with music from a wide variety of genres - from spiritual gospel, to folk, jazz and pop - interwoven with the patriotic anthems we all know and love! You’ll hear songs such as Oh Happy Day, Ain-a That Good News!, Shenandoah, I Got Rhythm, California Dreamin’, God Bless America, and Amazing Grace. This is a concert you won’t want to miss!

Other performances include:

Saturday, May 6th @ 2pm

Walnut Creek Presbyterian Church

Sunday, May 7th @ 4pm

San Ramon Valley High School

Hope Solutions 2023 Gala

By Carrie H. Veurink, Development & Community Outreach Manager, Hope Solutions

Don’t miss an opportunity to kick up your heels and join us for a special evening benefiting a great cause. Hope Solutions, formerly Contra Costa Interfaith Housing, is proud to present this year’s 15th annual gala, Ruby Boots – There’s No Place Like Home on Saturday, April 29, 2023 at the San Ramon Marriott. All proceeds from this life-changing event directly benefit homeless families and individuals here in Contra Costa County.

Hope Solutions, founded in 1997 by a group of local faith-based congregations, works to heal the multi-generational effects of poverty, trauma, and homelessness by providing permanent housing solutions and vital support services to our communities most vulnerable families and individuals.

Contra Costa County continues to suffer from an extreme shortage of affordable housing. In 2021, over 9,000 people accessed emergency housing services in the County. 71% of those had a disabling condition such as a chronic health, mental or physical disability.

Hope Solutions has served over 2,200 individuals and families this past year apart is its proven model of permanent housing coupled with supportive services. Permanent housing and on-site support services are the foundation on which Hope Solutions residents can build self-reliant, dignified, and sustainable lives.

Housing is just the beginning. Hope Solutions’ skilled team, many with lived experience, work alongside their clients through individualized mental health counseling, employment support, financial literacy, and social and academic youth enrichment. They also provide parenting support and crisis management to heal the deeply rooted trauma of homelessness and poverty. Hope Solutions empowers their clients to reconnect and sustain their community networks.

Don’t miss out on the chance to support the 2023 Ruby Boots Gala including becoming a sponsor, donating an auction item, and/or buying tickets. To learn more and buy your tickets, visit hopesolutions.org/ annualgala. It will be an uplifting evening and a fun way to support our community.

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The Blackhawk Niners

By Kelly Brandmeier

February Charm Day Results

1st Flight

1st Place Low Gross - Shelley Foster

2nd Place Low Gross - Sung-Jin Ingriselli

1st Place Low Net - Linda Maddalon

2nd Place Low Net - Jan Cooper

Low Putts - Vicki Robinson

2nd Flight

1st Place Low Gross - Terri Waterman

2nd Place Low Gross - Ruth Chantland

1st Place Low Net - Linda McColgan

2nd Place Low Net - Lil Giovanzana

Low Putts - Linda McColgan

Congratulations February Charm Day Winner

Vicki Robinson

Congratulations February Fun Challenge Winners

Jan Cooper

Fran Davis

Sally Ryan

Marlene Williamson

February Charm Day winner Vicki Robinson and Niners golf pro, Andrew Brown

Blackhawk Women’s Golf Association Updates

By Natasha Calomese, Resident since 2010

We had an adventurous start to our BWGA play day season! January brought us 18 consecutive days of rain that caused flooding, mudslides and unplayable courses at the club that prevented us from playing on our first official play day of the year. We would like to extend a huge thanks to our groundskeeping team who worked tirelessly to repair the damage to both courses caused by the storm and for making it possible for us to play golf. The first 25 days of January were cart path only and we were able to have our first play day of the year at the Falls course on January 12th with 15 players in attendance, including one of our newest members, Stephanie Newby!

Our first Flight Day of the year was on January 26th and was held at the Lakeside course. Congratulations to our Flight Day winners:

Overall Low Gross - Lily Weng 83

Overall Low Net - Karin King 80

Flight A

Gross - Karen Dougherty 89

Net - Hailey Joo 81

Flight B

Gross - Nancy Lisiak 109

Net - Judy Ma 87

Flight C

Gross - Tie Linnel McRee and Pam Hightow 115

Net - Pam Hightow 84

Flight D

Gross - Holly Becker 116

Net - Julia Leng 88

One Fun Thing - Low Putts

A Flight - Lily Weng 32

B Flight - Nancy Lisiak 32

C Flight - Linnell McRee 34

D Flight - Holly Becker 37

Chip-Ins

Hailey Joo (hole 2) and Nancy Lisiak (hole 4)

Closest to the Pin - Hole 16

Jan Lind - 13ft 11 inches

Our season is off to a great start, so let’s have fun and create great memories out there girls!

Captain’s Tip of the Month:

“Practice is not a requirement when you take up golf, but it will make a big difference in the speed in which you improve.” - Laura Carlson

Correction: 2022 Most Improved Player

In the January 2023 BWGA article, we incorrectly named the 2022 Most Improved Player. After recognizing an oversight in the calculation for the award, we want to make the correction and congratulate Sandra Isbell as our 2022 Most Improved Player.

First Play Day of 2023 - Lily Weng, Judy Slinger, Denise Mallozzi & Stephanie Newby

Huge Thanks to the Groundskeepers!

Lakeside Hole 18 mudslide below tee boxes

First Play Day of 2023 - Lily Weng, Judy Slinger, Denise Mallozzi & Stephanie Newby

Mustang SC to Celebrate State Cup Winners at San Jose Earthquakes Game on May 6th

By Melissa Durkee, Mustang SC, Marketing & Communications Director

TheSan Jose Earthquakes is partnering NorCal Premier Soccer and celebrating all State Cup winners at their match on Saturday, May 6th vs. LAFC, 4:30 PM at Levi’s Stadium. Each player will receive a free ticket to the game and take part in a pre-game parade on the field. Their parents/guardians also have the option to purchase a discounted ticket as well.

Mustang Soccer members are also invited to join in the celebration with a Mustang Night at the Quakes on the same night! We have a special section reserved just for our club! Please go to our website, mustangsoccer.com, to purchase tickets in our special section. Please contact Katie Hoiyt, khoyt@sjearthquakes.com, for the following:

-If you have a team or group of more than 20 people

-If you would like to buy in a different section

-If you would like to purchase a suite

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Tagliatelle Pasta with Herbs

By Parisa Z. Ambwani, Resident since 1983

Tagliatelle pasta is a long thin about 1/4-inch-wide, egg noodles, ribbon from Italy.

Serves 5-6

• 4 shallots, finely chopped

• 4 cloves of garlic, finely chopped

• ¼ cup olive oil

• 1 rosemary sprig (Gently strip leaves from rosemary stem and chopped)

• 2 fresh mint leaves, chopped

• 2 fresh sage leaves, chopped

Pasta:

• 12 oz. egg noodles, tagliatelle

• 4 fresh basil leaves, chopped

• ½ dash green chili pepper

• ½ cup green parsley leaves, chopped

• 1 Laurel Bay leaf

• ½ cup chicken broth OR vegetables broth

• ½ cup dry white wine

• 1 gallon of water

• 2 tTbls sea salt OR to taste

• ¼ teaspoon extra virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon

melted butter (optional)

Garnish: 2 rosemary sprigs, and 2 bay leaves

In a skillet, stir-fry shallots and garlic in heated olive oil until shallots become lightly golden brown. Add herbs (rosemary, mint, sage, basil, chili pepper, parsley and Laurel Bay leaf). Stir a few more minutes over low heat. Add vegetable broth and wine. Simmer over medium heat for a few minutes until the liquid is almost gone. Discard bay leaf.

In meantime, cook pasta in large stock pot of boiling water, salt, and ¼ teaspoon olive oil. Cook for a several minutes or until done (or follow your package direction). Strain pasta thoroughly. Add cooked pasta to a large bowl with 1 tablespoon melted butter and shallot-herb-wine mixture; toss gently. Garnish with rosemary and bay leaves. Serve warm.

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.

Choosing the right designer for your window covering project

By Janice Tracy, Elite Shutters & Shadings

When you are finally ready to replace those old blinds, but you’re just not sure where to start, working with a designer who specializes in custom window coverings is a great resource to help you navigate all the options.

Custom window coverings are an investment, not just in your home but in your joy. Finding the right designer to work with is crucial to any home design project.

Interior designers are typically versed in all elements of design, with some focusing on specific areas of expertise. That is no different in the world of window coverings. Regardless of the size of your project, it is always best to have someone with the most current knowledge of the industry on your team. Someone who takes the time to listen and learn what you want and need in the window coverings. Someone who can guide you through what will and will not work for your specific windows.

Do you need room darkening options or street facing privacy?

Do you have the required depth in the window for a specific type of treatment? How can we marry function and aesthetics to have it all?

These are just some important factors when designing the perfect window covering treatments.

How do you find this perfect match?

Ask your friends and neighbors. Some of your best recommendations can come from people you know who have had a good experience with a company. Word of mouth is the highest praise.

Check reviews from sources like Yelp or your local online Rants and Raves. Always check the Better Business Bureau. Is the company licensed and bonded to do work in your home? Working with an unlicensed vendor can create headaches and heartaches we all want to avoid.

And do not be afraid to ask for an interview. Finding the right designer who you are comfortable with and understands what you are trying to accomplish is vital.

Don’t forget to consider what type of relationship you’ll have once the project is done. Does the company offer any extended service to assist you with your warranty or any other issues that may arise after the fact?

A good designer will be associated with a strong team of professionals who support the work well after installation has occurred.

Once you have partnered with your perfect designer don’t be afraid to speak up. Design is give and take. In the end, this is your home and you are the expert.

Elite offers one-on-one consulting as well as working with your personal interior design team to assure all aspects of the finished project coordinate beautifully.

We look forward to being on your team.

Life Is A Cabernet:

SILVER OAK'S 2018 RELEASE PARTY

By Mike L. McColgan, Resident since 1990

Recently, we had the pleasure of attending the 2018 Silver Oak Release Party at their location in Napa.

Besides the release of the 2018 Silver Oak, patrons enjoyed live music, fantastic food from 2 famous pitmasters, Truth Barbeque and Trudy’s, picture booths and much more. To better manage this popular event, there was a morning session from 10 to 12:30 and a afternoon session from 1 to 3:30

The release day featured the 2018 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Ruby in color the wine has notes of strawberry, carnation, black pepper and vanilla with a blackberry finish and a cherry return. We enjoyed several tastes of this lovely wine.

The Silver Oak elegant Cabernet has been satisfying wine enthusiasts for over 50 years founded by Ray Duncan and Justin

Meyers in 1972. We had the pleasure to meet David Duncan, Ray’s son, who is the current proprietor/chairman of Silver Oak. He encouraged us to visit Silver Oak’s new winery located in Alexander Valley. We plan to do that soon.

To schedule a visit to this exclusive winery for a private tasting, go to: https://silveroak.com/visit/

The Monte Vista Sophomore Class Initiative

By Dylan Reyes, Sophomore at Monte Vista High School

Basketball is a game of runs. What makes the sport so entertaining to both watch and play is the fact that more talent doesn’t always translate to victory. Good teams maintain their composure when the lights shine the brightest and rather than hiding from big moments, they embrace them. Good teams demonstrate resilience and simply refuse to acknowledge the doubters and naysayers who write them off. This year, Monte Vista’s men’s varsity basketball team has proven to show up when it matters the most. While the team has certainly endured its fair share of crushing defeats, Monte Vista’s remarkable upsets will ultimately be remembered the most. The first major upset this season came against powerhouse De La Salle, anchored by a Sophomore sensation who is a four star recruit. Going into this matchup, the Spartans were heavy favorites to secure the victory over Monte Vista, and justifiably so. After all, in the previous season, the Spartans defeated the Mustangs in a dominant fashion and so, many assumed that this year would be no different. But the Mustangs came to play, and it’s safe to say that they effectively silenced the doubters. In this exciting showdown that came down to the wire, the Mustangs’ efforts were spearheaded

by Senior Shooting Guard Jake Fields, who tallied an efficient 24 points. As a spectator of this game, I can vividly remember the crowd’s electrifying reaction after Fields buried a deep, buzzerbeater three to conclude the first quarter. Simply put, throughout the entirety of the game, the energy inside the gym was surreal and I’m sure that the players felt the same. The final score of this matchup

was 57-50 and the Mustangs officially cemented themselves as a legitimate threat to win on any given night. The next pivotal victory for Monte Vista came against the conference’s number one ranked team, Dougherty Valley High School. While absent from this matchup was Doughterty’s number one recruit and consensus best player, this Mustang victory was nonetheless impressive. In

this upset, the Mustangs shocked the world once again after overthrowing the formidable Wildcats. The final score of this matchup was 64-61. Ultimately, while Monte Vista has experienced its fair share of wins and losses this year, it has been the team’s uncanny ability to step up when it counts that has defined them. Perhaps their billing as perennial underdogs is just the fuel that the players need to motivate themselves. With the EBAL and NCS championships approaching, the entire MV community wishes the basketball team well, as they continue to make our school proud.

Dylan Reyes is a current Sophomore at Monte Vista High School. He is a first time author for the publication who loves creative writing. At Monte Vista, Dylan is an active member within his school community serving as a Sophomore officer in the Leadership class. Furthermore, Dylan is a proud Filipino American who sought to enrich the student body when he founded the first Filipino American Student Union at his school. Dylan’s role in the Danville Youth Council also allows him to stay updated about the latest news within our town. In his free time, Dylan enjoys talking about and playing basketball with his friends, playing fantasy football, and podcasting, a more recent hobby of his. Dylan is excited to pursue this writing opportunity and looks forward to highlighting all of the positive developments at Monte Vista High School and the Blackhawk Community at large.

Tri-Valley Animal Rescue Giving Them Another Chance

By Sue James, President

TARKIN East County Animal Shelter looking for his forever home

Tarkin is a dog who sees the glass as half full. He doesn’t realize how long he’s been in the shelter, but he is always happy and smiling. Tarkin is overlooked by visitors because he jumps up and barks when people pass by his cage. But in reality, he’s just trying to get visitors’ attention - and is an active, high-energy dog who enjoys the outdoors. Once he is out of his cage and into a yard he runs at full speed with joy and, of course, with his trademark smile. Tarkin is affectionate and loves playing with toys and catching balls.

While he will need an experienced dog owner – Tarkin has been making fantastic progress and is a very fast learner He knows “sit” and “stay” and walks well on leash. Tarkin would likely prefer a home where he can be the only dog although he has shown progress with female dogs with slow and proper introductions.

Tarkin is neutered, vaccinated and ready to go to his new forever home. If you are looking for a devoted companion, please check out Tarkin! He is located at the East County Animal Shelter – 4595 Gleason Drive in Dublin – Kennel A10. You can see more about Tarkin and additional pictures and videos at www.tvar.org

DEMOSTHENES AND YETRO

TVAR FOSTER KITTEN PROGRAM

Demostenes and Yetro are a handsome pair of tuxedo kittens currently available for adoption from TriValley Animal Rescue. These two goofy and rambunctious brothers were afflicted by a severe upper respiratory infection and were very scared when they were found. They were nursed back to health and socialized in a loving foster home and continue to be socialized by TVAR’s wonderful group of volunteers. They now enjoy running around like goofballs together, cuddling up for photoshoots, and eating yummy snacks.

They are neutered, vaccinated, microchipped and tested negative for FIV/FeLV.

TVAR’s kitten and bottle baby programs rescue kittens - some only days old - who are unable to be adopted from the shelter and place them in foster homes where they receive medical care, love, and a

home setting until they are healthy, able to be spayed or neutered and ready for their forever homes

Tri-Valley Animal Rescue (TVAR) - Giving them Another Chance

TVAR is a locally based and volunteer run 501(c)3 animal rescue organization. We assist in saving over 1,000 animals yearly in the Tri-Valley and surrounding areas. We are celebrating 30 years of saving lives with over 250 local volunteers. At TVAR, we rely solely on Public Support to fund our life saving programs.

All TVAR’s foster animals go directly from the local Animal Shelter into foster homes where they receive much needed love and socialization and where they are kept until adopted.

We also have an invaluable Shelter Program where our volunteers spend countless hours every day at the local shelter working with the Dogs, Puppies, Cats and Kittens and the Public.

Non-surgical Hair Restoration

By Stephen J. Ronan, MD FACS, Blackhawk Plastic Surgery and MedSpa

hair restoration has come a long way in recent years, offering patients effective solutions without the need for surgical intervention. One of the most innovative and effective treatments available is the combination of Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) therapy and Microneedling. This treatment is used to address hair loss, thinning, and balding, and has been shown to provide long-lasting results in many cases.

Non-surgical

PRP therapy is a non-surgical procedure that uses the patient’s own blood plasma, which is rich in platelets and growth factors, to promote hair growth and thickening. The plasma is extracted from the patient’s blood, then re-injected into the scalp, providing the necessary nutrients and growth factors needed for healthy hair growth.

Microneedling is another non-surgical procedure that involves the use of small needles to create tiny punctures in the scalp. This stimulates the body’s natural healing process, which in turn increases blood flow and promotes hair growth. When combined with PRP therapy, Microneedling provides even greater benefits for hair restoration.

At Blackhawk Hair Restoration we’ve developed a proprietary non-surgical treatment that combines PRP, Microneedling and medication indicated for each patient’s need. We call this exclusive treatment protocol: HairMAXX. One of the key benefits of the HairMAXX treatment is that it is minimally invasive, meaning that patients can resume their normal activities almost immediately after the procedure. In addition, this combination of treatments is highly effective, with many patients experiencing significant improvement in their hair growth and thickness within a few months of starting treatment.

HairMAXX has also been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of hair conditions, including pattern baldness, thinning hair, and hair loss due to hormonal imbalances. HairMAXX treatments have also been used successfully in people of all ages and hair types, providing a versatile solution for anyone looking to address hair loss or thinning.

In summary, the combination of PRP therapy and Microneedling is a highly effective solution for non-surgical hair restoration. With minimal downtime, a low risk of side effects, and the ability to address a wide range of hair conditions, our HairMAXX treatment is an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve their hair growth and thickness. If you are considering a hair restoration procedure, we encourage you to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation consultation so we can help you determine the best treatment options for your specific needs.

For more information on our hair restoration treatment options or to schedule a consultation, please give us a call at (925) 736-5757. We look forward to hearing from you!

“Marry Me March”

with Padis Jewelry featuring Tacori & A Jaffe is Here!

By Steve Padis, Padis Jewelry

Throughout the month of March, Padis is hosting a huge Engagement Ring and Wedding Band Fest with exclusive savings and special events featuring Tacori on March 10th and 11th and A Jaffe on March 24th and 25th and experts on hand to help you select that perfect ring. If you’re on the hunt for a ring or wanting to find ideas for when you are ready for a ring, there is no better time to visit Padis Jewelry!

In honor of “Marry Me March,” we offer insight into how to find the ring to leave them speechless! Choosing an engagement ring is not a decision to be taken lightly. The cost and the meaning carry significant weight, and it can be a lot of pressure trying to pick out a ring that they’ll love forever. With a little bit of guidance from experts in the diamond business, you’ll be down on one knee in no time. Here are some strategies for picking out an engagement ring that will leave them speechless…in a good way.

Do Your Research

Even if you think you could pick out what they like, doing a little bit of research will help ensure you make the right choice. Be observant of what their personal style says about them. Try to think of a few words that would use to describe your significant other. Are they Classic? Traditional? Are they always up on the latest Instagram trends? This type of information will be helpful when you’re working with one of our non-commissioned, trusted advisors at Padis.

Some other ways to get to know their style on a deeper level include:

• Ask friends or family members for recommendations

• Find out what kind of ring their favorite celebrity wears

• Consider “hints” that they’ve given you

• Notice whether they prefer yellow gold, rose gold or silver- colored jewelry

• Learn about diamond quality, settings, and the Four Cs

Shop In-Person - Not Just Online

It’s intuitive to simply browse online for an engagement ring. After all, shopping online is how many of us buy clothes, household items, and even groceries. We do encourage you to do some preliminary browsing online. However, unlike other diamond websites that sell exclusively online, we believe there’s no better way to shop for an engagement ring than in-person with a diamond expert.

At Padis, we own our inventory and have our master jewelers on premises every day, so you get to take home your purchase that day. The hurdle of seeing a photo of something online and then seeing it in person once it’s delivered can be a tough jump for many people who end up disappointed with the quality of the diamond or the style of ring they receive. When you shop in-person, you’re able to ask questions about and compare side by side the color, cut, and clarity. An in-person buying experience gives you the trust and confidence you should have when making such a special purchase.

Lean on a Diamond Expert for Guidance

What’s great about a non-commissioned advisor is that you could potentially walk into one of our showrooms without any idea what to purchase and walk out with a solid plan, full diamond education or even a ring in hand. Many people put up a wall when they shop for engagement rings and fine jewelry because they think the advisor is only trying to make a sale. As members of the American Gem Society, Padis Jewelry is of the top 5% of jewelers across the country and committed to consumer protection and annual continuing gemological education to ensure you have an expert to work with. Working closely with a diamond consultant is to your benefit. With years and even decades of knowledge, our staff is there to educate and guide you.

Visit Padis Jewelry in San Francisco, Napa or Walnut Creek!

Our team at Padis Jewelry is here to help guide you in selecting a ring that matches your style and lifestyle. Join us for the Tacori March 10th and 11th and A Jaffe March 24th and 25th special events and benefit from the entire collections of each designer here to view and throughout the month of March as we feature expanded designer collections and the Bay Area’s largest and finest selection of loose natural and lab created diamonds and rings.

You can RSVP to our Marry Me March events by contacting us at concierge@padisjewelry.com or 415-861-5388. We treasure the generations of families who allow us to become a part of their most precious moments. Mention that you saw us in Blackhawk Living Magazine and receive a special piece of jewelry as one of our neighbors!