Velocity Preview Comes to Blackhawk! Cars and Coffee
Niner’s News
Blackhawk Scholarship Fund - Award Ceremony
Palmaz Vineyards: Passionate Pursuit of Wine Making Perfection Wine, Food, Golf & Fun
Delightful Rural Eggplant Dish In the Kitchen
Put down the knife...
Geneva National – The Palmer Course Golf Destinations
Endless Summer Nights:
Kauai’s Spectacular Sunsets: Nature’s Evening Masterpiece Life through a Lens
Padis Fall Events Centered Around Wedding Bands and Watches Ensures There’s Something for Everyone! Expert Contributor
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.
for
Dear Neighbors,
Whether you love football, the new fall TV season, the holiday blockbusters on the horizon, or the oodles of new books to devour, October is a good time to be a fan. I can’t be the only one tempted to spend a day on the couch with a bowl of popcorn.
I love October in Blackhawk when the beautiful fall colors are in full swing, the houses are decorated with ghosts and goblins and we get to see the neighborhood kids in their costumes. The community of Blackhawk always comes together to make the season special.
This month you’ll meet your neighbors, The Mahalik Family. They are all about fun, adventure and hard work, we are thrilled to share their family story with you.
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.
Warmly,
Megan Scott
Resident since 2010
Blackhawk Living Magazine is devoted to sharing stories, events and news among our neighbors in this wonderful community. If you have a story, event or news to share please email me at mscott@bestversionmedia.com.
Jo Peek
Expert Contributors
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Jo Peek at jpeek@bestversionmedia.com.
Lena Kelley 925-968-6464 Lena@ppwpm.com www.ppwpm.com
InHome Rehabilitation
Home Healthcare Registry, LLC
Virginia Eggert 925-354-9919 virginiaeggert@yahoo.com homehealthcareregistry.com
Over the last 9 years, Jo Peek has been helping local businesses, nonprofits, charities and schools connect with our community on a deeper level. She works with each client individually to customize a marketing campaign to suit their needs, timeline and budget.
The Pleasanton Automall is a luxury automotive dealership housing the Acura and Lexus dealerships located in Pleasanton, CA. In addition to our flagships, we also carry a wide selection of quality pre-owned vehicles. We pride ourselves in offering a World Class experience to all of our guests. Visit us today or contact us online to experience the Pleasanton difference.
Dr. Lippman has been in practice in the Tri-Valley since 2009. His passion is to help eradicate back pain and allow people to live their lives to the fullest. He is married and the father of two very good looking kids. When not cracking backs, he can be found running, hiking or biking with his kids, or enjoying a ballgame in the sun.
Blackhawk Plastic Surgery has been offering their patients the highest quality cosmetic treatments in the Blackhawk area for more than 15 years. Now they are thrilled to introduce the Blackhawk Migraine Clinic led by migraine specialist, Alicia Choquette. Alicia brings over 5 years of migraine expertise to the Blackhawk Migraine Clinic and looks forward to helping patients live a better quality of life migraine free.
Kristin Jones is owner and CEO of Kristin Jones Coaching, a life coaching service that specializes in empowering women to conquer their emotional eating. She offers personalized support and a safe space for clients to explore their relationship with food, and themselves. Through gentle guidance, practical tools, and insightful strategies, she helps untangle the roots of their struggles, fostering healing and self-acceptance. Discover the transformative power of a balanced, joyful relationship with food and yourself.
Professional Powerwashing & Maintenance has been in business for 10 years. Collectively, we have 70+ years of experience in residential and commercial cleaning and maintenance. We hold contractor’s license CSBL#1022456, bonded and insured. All of our employees are covered with worker’s compensation. Our specialties include working with insurance companies and claims, providing customers with industry’s highest level of services including cleaning roofs, solar panels, house wash, window wash and much more.
Our rehabilitation support goes beyond recovery; it’s about rediscovering strength, resilience, and a path to a healthier you. Our team of dedicated professionals is here to guide and support you on your journey to wellness. With personalized rehabilitation support in the comfort of your home, we bring healing to your doorstep. We’re committed to helping you regain independence and live life to the fullest.
Expert Contributors
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Jo Peek at jpeek@bestversionmedia.com.
Insurance
Roger Fernando
State Farm Roger Fernando Agency 925-244-1700 roger@rogerfernando.com
Jewelry, Diamonds & Timepieces
Steve Padis
Steve Padis Jewelry info@padisjewelry.com www.padisjewelry.com
Music: Soloist & Private Voice Lessons
Elizabeth Hunter Ashley The Performance Studio 925-548-2694
California Pacific Realty Zahid Jahania 510-757-1265 www.californiapacificrealty.com infocalpacrealty@gmail.com
Tax & Accounting
East Bay Accounting
Terra A Malcolm 925-421-2202 (office) 925-421-2203 (direct) terra@eastbayacct.com www.eastbayacct.com
Tree Service
Trex Donovan Buena Vista Tree Service 415-531-1247 ntdonovan@yahoo.com www.buenavistatree.com
Sushi
Blue Sakana Blackhawk JD Choi jd@bluesakanablackhawk.com 925-648-7838 bluesakanablackhawk.com
Roger Fernando has been a State Farm Agent for 30 years, starting his insurance agency in 1988. Roger and his team are fully licensed. We take pride in giving personal, exceptional service, in talking and listening to our clients about their insurance needs. Our mission has always been to consult with customers as their insurance needs change, protect their insurance for the risks of everyday life and help recover from the unexpected loss.
Steve and Judy Padis own and operate Padis Jewelry, which has four locations in the San Francisco Bay Area. They founded the company in 1974 and are proud to have earned a reputation as one of the finest jewelers in San Francisco, serving generations of clients for their most precious moments in life, from engagement to anniversary to milestone gifts. Padis Jewelry maintains top-tier relationships with the most sought-after designers including Tacori, Forevermark, Verragio, Breitling, Tag Heuer, and Roberto Coin. As members of the American Gem Society, Padis is among the top 5% of jewelers across the country.
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.
California Pacific Realty is a locally owned and operated full-service Real Estate firm. We specialize in buying, selling, and managing investment properties throughout the Bay area. Our mission is to offer unique turnkey solutions to our investors. We specialize in acquisition, sales, and property management throughout Oakland and the Alameda County area. Our local property management expertise helps owners improve their return on investment (ROI), and renters find their ideal rental home.
East Bay Accounting was established 5 years ago in Danville, California, and our partners have over 20 years of tax law experience. Continuous education on the newest legislation and pristine customer service is what we pride ourselves on. We provide high quality, uniquely tailored tax saving strategies that every American taxpayer deserves to have access to. We look forward to serving our Blackhawk community.
Buena Vista Tree Service is committed to preserving our urban forests and environment. They recycle 100% of our green waste into a reusable landscaping product. Trex safely and efficiently handles all types of tree emergencies 24 hours a day to eliminate tree risks to people and property and significantly reduce your liability exposure.
Blue Sakana has become the premier destination for Japanese food, offering the highest-quality fish and most original sushi rolls in the area. Our inviting atmosphere and friendly staff have quickly made Blue Sakana a neighborhood favorite. Blue Sakana at Blackhawk offers a full bar with artisanal, Asian-inspired cocktails, an eclectic beer selection and a great wine list. We specialize in sushi and Japanese dishes made with fresh ingredients, all at an accessible and affordable price.
Meet the Leading by Example:
Mihalik Family
By Megan Scott, Resident since 2010
Images Courtesy of Mihalik Family
Matt and Stacie Mihalik were introduced by a mutual friend, and it wasn’t long before they went on their first date. One date led to many more, and eventually, Matt decided to propose. While on a trip through Germany, Austria, and Italy, Matt found the perfect romantic setting—a Venetian gondola—and there, he asked Stacie to marry him.
Upon returning from their romantic getaway, the couple decided it was time for a change of scenery from their Midwestern home. “After enduring five Midwestern winters, I realized I was destined for the California sunshine,” says Stacie. “So we relocated to my home state. Shortly after, we celebrated our marriage with a beautiful ceremony and reception in Napa. Wanting to fully enjoy the occasion and spend quality time with family and friends—most of whom were flying in—we turned the event into a weekend getaway in Napa.
Surrounded by incredible wineries and restaurants, we created many cherished memories together that beautiful weekend.”
Stacie and Matt settled down in Danville and quickly fell in love with the area. Stacie’s parents, who had been living in San Mateo, also moved to the Blackhawk area to be closer to their grandchildren. “We moved to Blackhawk in 2019, the year our daughter Sophie was born. Our son Evan was already two years old, and with Sophie on the way, we were searching for a home with more space. In fact, we moved into our new house just a couple of weeks before Sophie made her early arrival, surprising the whole family,” says Stacie.
Matt was born in Cleveland, OH, and earned both his undergraduate and graduate degrees in finance from Baldwin Wallace University. His early interest in banking naturally led him to a successful career at Key Bank, where he spent 14 years in the Corporate Treasury department, steadily taking on greater responsibilities. “Even as a child, I was fascinated by banking and investments. I would try to read the Wall Street Journal, pretending to keep up with the bond and equity markets—though I didn’t really understand it all, I liked to think I did. This interest grew throughout my high school and college years as I took more finance and economics courses, which eventually led me to my first real job at Key Bank right after college,” says Matt.
Stacie was born in San Mateo, CA, and attended Aragon High School before moving on to UCLA. After earning her undergraduate degree, she began working in investment management, gaining valuable experience in both equities and fixed income over the course of four years. Eager to advance her career, she pursued an MBA in Marketing and Finance from Michigan State University. Through her graduate program, she was recruited to National City Bank (now PNC Bank), where she participated in a leadership development program, rotating through several departments, including wealth management. During one of these rotations, she met a close friend of Matt’s—and the rest is history. “I’m most passionate about marketing, viewing it as a way to solve problems for customers, create value, and build long-term relationships—something I have always loved, whether in personal interactions or in a corporate setting,” says Stacie.
Volunteering has always been close to Stacie’s heart. She began, during her time at UCLA, playing sports with children who were wards of the court. Throughout her life, she has been a dedicated Big Sister in Big Brothers Big Sisters programs in various cities. Stacie has also lent her marketing expertise to several non-profit boards in Cleveland and the Bay Area. Her guiding principle is to leave the world a little better than she found it, which drives her passion for helping organizations in need. She currently enjoys supporting Blackhawk Country Club, the Blackhawk Swim Team, and St. Isidore School with their marketing efforts. Matt is an active member of the Knights of Columbus Council 4060 in Danville, setting an example for his children, Evan and Sophie, by giving back to the community. He believes there’s no better way to lead than by showing them the importance of service.
Evan and Sophie bring so much joy to the family. Evan, who is a second-grader, is known at school for his ability
to brighten anyone’s day with his silly jokes and a smile. His favorite sport is swimming, and he had a fantastic time during his first year on the Blackhawk Swim Team (HOX). Sophie, who is in Kindergarten, is a natural performer and loves ballet, soccer, and swimming. She thoroughly enjoyed her first year on the miniHOX, a great pre-swim team program that introduces young children to the excitement of summer recreational swimming.
Stacie’s multicultural background, with her mother being Salvadoran and Chinese and her father German and Hungarian, has given her a rich linguistic heritage. She learned both German and Spanish early on, and now she and Matt hope to pass that love of language to their children. Evan and Sophie are already fluent
in Spanish, and Matt and Stacie are excited for them to continue learning German.
Matt and Stacie have always had a passion for travel, exploring destinations across Europe, South America, and Central America. “Experiencing different cultures firsthand is one of the best ways to learn about the world we live in, and we hope to inspire a love of travel in Evan and Sophie,” says Stacie.
No matter where their travels take them, the Mihalik family says they are always happy to return home to Blackhawk. “Our neighborhood is absolutely wonderful. We love all our neighbors, the natural beauty of the area, and our proximity to fun areas in California. Through Blackhawk Country Club, we’ve made
friends with so many families that have children around the same age. One of our favorite things about the Blackhawk area is all the memories our family has of hanging out at the Blackhawk pool or fire pits on summer evenings.”
Do you know a neighbor who has a story to share? Nominate your neighbor to be featured in one of our upcoming issues! Contact us at mscott@bestversionmedia.com.
Joybound Looking for Love
By Chelsea Blackburn, Joybound
Adopt
a new best friend at Joybound People & Pets (formerly the Animal Rescue Foundation) in Walnut Creek! View available dogs and cats online or visit Joybound in-person: Monday-Sunday, 12-6 pm. Our team is excited to guide you in choosing a pet, share information about their history and behavior, and provide helpful resources.
Berry
Berry is a tall and elegant gentleman with a smile that will steal away even the hardest of hearts. His sensitive soul will need someone to love who can provide patience and understanding for his boundaries. He loves playing with his favorite toys, getting a good brush, or splashing in water
Bonus: Berry’s adoption fee has been sponsored by a generous admirer.
Joybound adoption fees:
• $150 for an adult dog
• $375 for a puppy (<6 months)
• $75 for a special-needs dog
• $200 for a special-needs puppy (<6 months)
• $75 for a senior dog (7+ years)
• Adoption fees waived for US military Veterans
Abby
Abby is a soulful and reserved 9-year-old Siamese beauty with mesmerizing blue eyes and a sleek coat. While Abby can be shy at first, she shows affection in her own way once she feels safe. With time, she precious kitty bonds deeply with someone who offers her the love and patience she needs.
• $100 for an adult cat
• $175 for a kitten (<6 months)
• $50 for a special-needs cat
• $100 for a special-needs kitten (<6 months)
• $50 for a senior cat (7+ years)
• Adoption fees waived for US military Veteran
A Sampling of Homes Active in your Neighborhood
Effective Tax-Saving Strategies for HighIncome Earners
By Terra Malcolm Partner/Tax Consultant East Bay Accounting
For high-income earners, managing taxes can be particularly complex, but employing strategic approaches can lead to significant savings. Here are some advanced tax-saving strategies designed for those with substantial incomes:
1. **Maximize Retirement Contributions**: High-income earners should fully utilize tax-advantaged retirement accounts. Contribute the maximum allowable amount to a 401(k), which reduces taxable income. Consider a Roth IRA for its tax-free withdrawals in retirement, though income limits apply. For those with higher incomes, a backdoor Roth IRA can be a workaround to bypass income limits on Roth contributions.
2. **Explore Defined Benefit Plans**: High-income professionals, particularly business owners, can benefit from defined benefit plans. These plans allow for higher contribution limits compared to traditional retirement accounts and can significantly reduce taxable income. Contributions are based on a projected retirement benefit, which can lead to substantial tax deductions.
3. **Utilize Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)**: HSAs offer a triple tax advantage—contributions are tax-deductible, growth is tax-free, and withdrawals for medical expenses are tax-free. High-income earners with high-deductible health plans should fully fund their HSAs to maximize these benefits.
4. **Invest in Municipal Bonds**: Interest income from municipal bonds is typically exempt from federal taxes, and sometimes state and local taxes as well. This can be particularly advantageous for high-income earners looking to generate taxfree income.
5. **Implement Tax-Loss Harvesting**: High-income investors can use tax-loss harvesting to offset capital gains. By selling investments at a loss, you can reduce the tax burden on gains from other investments. This strategy helps manage taxable income and maintain portfolio balance.
6. **Establish a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF)**: For philanthropic high-income earners, a DAF allows you to make a charitable contribution and receive an immediate tax deduction while distributing the funds to charities over time. This approach not only reduces taxable income but also provides flexibility in charitable giving.
7. **Consider Estate Planning Tools**: High-income earners should explore estate planning strategies such as trusts, gift exclusions, and charitable remainder trusts to manage estate taxes effectively. These tools can help minimize estate taxes and ensure that wealth is passed on according to your wishes.
By leveraging these strategies, high-income earners can significantly reduce their tax liabilities while optimizing their financial planning. Consulting with a tax advisor at East Bay Accounting can help tailor these strategies to your specific financial situation and ensure compliance with current tax laws.
karl.schonian@compass.com
510.295.5003
DRE 01246742
510.332.9124
DRE 01718353
Don’t Miss the Next Book Sale!
By Cynthia Sofranac, Co-Chair of Membership, Friends of the Danville Library
Trying to find great classic books for your high schooler? What about chapter books for your third grader? Want the latest in fiction at crazy good prices? With school underway, every parent needs books—so why not get the best deal in town? Go to the Friends of Danville Library book sale on Saturday, October 26th, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Mt. Diablo Room. Most books are priced at $2.00 for hard covers and $1.00 for paperbacks—25 and 50 cents for children’s chapter books!
Every sale is different with an eclectic selection of fiction, nonfiction, classics, vintage, cookbooks, art and music. There is also a selection of new fiction and nonfiction (2020 to 2023) priced slightly higher from $3.00 to $6.00, with credit cards accepted. You can also bring book contributions to the Bookstore that day.
Most important, why not join the Friends organization? Established to support all programs at the library, your Friends’ membership includes such benefits as:
• A free book with each membership (up to a $4 value),
• Discount on the Friends’ new book bag
• A “Wanted Book” request service—where we find books for you!
• Email notices on all upcoming special offers and events. You can get a membership form at the library, at the sale, or in the Bookstore—or download one from the library website. Join us! You will make a big difference to our Danville Library!
We are looking for articles from you, our residents. Tell us about a charity you volunteer for, a hobby, a great hike you’ve found, a special way you celebrated a holiday, craft ideas, recipes, a beautiful photo! Send your ideas or photos to mscott@bestversionmedia.com by the 10th of the month for publishing the next month.
Velocity Preview Comes to Blackhawk!
By Celeste Altus
Velocity
Invitational, a three-day motorsports event at Sonoma Raceway, hosted a bustling cars, coffee and donut event Sept. 8 at the Blackhawk Plaza. The Velocity preview served as a taste of what can be seen at Velocity, including hypercars, collections and rare racecars. Around the museum’s courtyard were Lambhorginis, an Aston Martin, and McLaren among many others. The lower lot was full of more exotics and collector classic cars. Car clubs from around the Bay Area brought out their makes and models, often parked all in a row. Velocity takes place October 4-6.
Celeste Altus is a freelance writer and content marketer specializing in technology, retail and finance. She lives in Danville, and keeps a car account on Instagram called @Cars_of_Danville.
Niner’s News
By Fran Davis
What an exciting summer it has been! We have all been enjoying our beautiful California weather. Fall golf is arguably the best golf, with crisp mornings and a refreshing start to the day. Niners kicked off the month of August with a fun game day challenge. The format was called “throw away”. Each player got to throw away scores from two holes, deciding only after finishing that hole to either throw away or keep the score. Congratulations to Jane Chaplin, Mary Porteous and Leigh Bultman for taking 1st, 2nd and 3rd place. September’s game challenge was called “STATS”. Players were awarded points for hitting the fairway with your tee shot (1 point), hit the green in regulation (1 point) and putting with either 2 putts (1 point) or 1 putt (2 points). First place went to Channing Azzolino with an impressive 18 points and second place to Fran Davis with 16 points. Honorable mention went to Jeanie Egan with two chip-ins on backto-back holes. Thank you to Helen Tarantino and Andrew Brown for always coming up with exciting game day formats for all of us to enjoy!
August Charm Day Results
1st Flight
1st Place Low Gross (52) - Pat Burgess
2nd Place Low Gross (52)- Laura Gross
1st Place Low Net (34) - Helen Tarantino
2nd Place Low Net (34) - Maureen Pereira
Low Putts (17) - Jean Egan
2nd Flight
1st Place Low Gross (56) - Joanne Knapp
2nd Place Low Gross (58) - Linda Maddalon
1st Place Low Net (35) - Brenda McNabb
2nd Place Low Net (36) - Fran Davis
Low Putts (14) - Fran Davis
Here’s a look at the October Calendar
October 3 - MYOTT
October 10 - MYOTT
October 17 - Charm Day - Falls Back
October 24 - Lakes Front
October 31 - Lakes Back
August Charm Day Winner
Congratulations Michelle Barry
August Charm Day Winners
Andrew Brown Explaining Game Day Format
Michelle Barry - August Charm Day Winner
Blackhawk Scholarship Fund Award Ceromony
By Cassandra Boyer, Resident since 2013
Blackhawk Scholarship Fund (BSF) provides college scholarships to Contra Costa high school women in financial need who demonstrate outstanding academic and extracurricular achievement. BSF gave $5,000 each to six remarkable young women and hosted its annual Awards Ceremony at the Blackhawk Country Club for the honorees and their parents to celebrate their success. The honorees are Mariella Cajina, Laura Khuu, Lesly Silva Rosales, Alessandra May Tabbu, Isabella Thai, Adelina Zheng. This fall, they will be attending UC Berkeley, UC San Diego, Brown University, UC Davis, UC Irvine and California State San Luis Obispo. BSF congratulates these fine women on their exceptional high school resumes and wishes them well in college. Since its inception, BSF has awarded over $460,000 in scholarships. Do you know a deserving woman who needs a college scholarship? Do you want to contribute or help our volunteer-run organization? Learn more at bwscholarshipfund. com or send an email to bwscholarshipfund@gmail.com.
The Retreat, Links & Spa at Silvies Valley Ranch
By Chuck Fox, Owner, Quintessential Golf, Resident since 2012
Oregon’s newest golf resort is on a ranch in Eastern Oregon, an impressive full-size course - in both directions.
On a working ranch in Eastern Oregon and officially named The Retreat and Links at Silvies Valley Ranch, it’s located five hours southeast of Portland and three hours west of Boise. Veterinarian and entrepreneur Dr. Scott Campbell sold his large veterinary clinic business, returned to his roots and purchased the 140,000acre (218 square-mile) ranch more than a decade ago.
With the natural beauty and stunning vistas as a foundation, the luxury western adventure business opened in 2018. They couple upscale ranch cabins, a full-service spa and premier dining with a serious customer-satisfaction focus. Current activities include a cattle drive, goat herding, hiking, biking, fishing, golfing and photography with more ideas on the horizon. Each guest is given a radio for communication on the property as there is no cell phone coverage. And every cabin is assigned a golf cart for transportation on the property.
Silvies Ranch Golf - Reversible course direction
Adding golf to the entertainment mix is brilliant. Campbell enlisted the architect Dan Hixson who is noted for designing the other Bandon area course called Bandon Crossings and the great Wine Valley course in Washington State. Hixson began Silvies Ranch Golf with the notion to develop only the second reversible golf course in America. They reverse the course direction each day to create a different layout. The course has twenty-seven greens of which nine are double greens, and eighteen are one-directional greens. Six holes play in only one direction. A course with reversible holes played in different directions causes wide fairways, unique
bunker locations, forced carriers and other obstacles. There are no water hazards. But Hixson makes up for that with ample bunkering. With many tee boxes and pin-placements on double-greens, many courses are configurable. They name the two eighteen-hole courses Hankins and Craddock after the Pioneer families who homesteaded the site in the early years.
Silvies Ranch Golf includes Chief Egan, a 9-hole short Par3 course that features water on every hole. A most unusual addition is the seven-hole McVeigh Gauntlet course carved into a razor-back. A series of challenging Par3’s, one of which only requires a putter, short Par4’s that require a wood and a wedge and the first Par2 we’ve seen. Golfers need few clubs on the McVeigh course, which is best for their goat caddies. Outfitted with specially designed golf bag harness, they carry six clubs, twelve balls and six cans of refreshments. And the goats work for peanuts, literally.
The Hankins Course at Silvies Ranch Golf
First-time golfers should observe the signage directing the play for the reversible course. Cart paths are dirt and gravel. Hence, paths to greens and tees are not obvious. With three teeing grounds on each course, it’s easy to mix up. Fairways and rough are fescue and bluegrass with hearty bentgrass on the greens. As expected with a western links-style course, the conditioning is excellent but not immaculate.
Par3’s are short but dangerous. Most bunkers are protected by thick grass, which is often a worse position than the bunker. We enjoyed the rural atmosphere and the remote, solitary feeling between the golf course and us. Because the fairways are generous, the rough is thick and narrow. Short bushes, bunch grass, and pine trees
an Expansive View
are close to the fairway. Tremendous views make it challenging to concentrate on golf.
With the reversible eighteen, the Par3 along the water and the sevenhole short course with goat caddies we can confirm the fun factor at Silvies Ranch Golf. Adding in a plethora of other adventure activities, luxurious cabins, fine dining with the tremendous beauty of the terrain, creates a unique golfing adventure.
If You Go:
Course Info – Silvies Ranch Golf (www.silvies.us/courses.php) includes an eighteen-hole reversible course comprising the Hankins Course in one direction and the Craddock course in the other direction. Chief Egan is a Par3 course, and McVeigh’s Gauntlet is a seven-hole challenge course.
Yardage: Hankins Course: White 7075 yards (71.8/120), Grey 6280 yards (68.1/115), Black 5335 yards (63.7/102)
Location - Eastern Oregon. Five and 1/2 hours from Portland, OR airport, four hours west of Boise, ID airport and three hours east of Bend, OR.
Lodging – The Retreat, Links & Spa at Silvies Ranch (www.silvies. us) is a working Western ranch with luxury cabins, premier dining, and extensive activities.
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 player’s 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.
SECRET TO SUCCESS
Marketing your business means focusing on how you solve customer problems and create a sense of progress. By demonstrating exactly how you alleviate both current and future customer problems, you’ll become trusted experts and build a loyal customer base. Here are a few ways to get started:
▶ UNDERSTANDING THE COMMUNITY
Local businesses have an advantage in understanding the specific challenges and pain points faced by their community members. By actively listening to customer feedback and engaging in conversations, businesses can identify the problems that matter most to residents. Addressing these problems through products, services, or even community initiatives can position your business as a valuable problem solver.
▶ WRITING HOW-TO CONTENT
You are the expert in your field, so what may be common knowledge to you is new information to your readers. Teach your audience something they might not even know they should be aware of. By breaking down complex problems into clear, actionable steps, you provide value for your readers and establish yourself as a knowledgeable source.
▶ BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS THROUGH PERSONALIZED SERVICE
Knowing customers by name and going the extra mile to provide exceptional service creates a sense of loyalty and trust. A personalized approach is valued by consumers, with 80% of people being more likely to do business with a company that offers personalized experiences.1
▶ LEVERAGING COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
A commitment to the community is especially potent for small businesses. Collaboration is key for local businesses because it allows you to expand your reach and create positive goodwill in the community. They donate about 250% more than larger businesses to local nonprofits and community causes.2 Local partnerships demonstrate a commitment to building a stronger community.
By Jo Peek Expert Contributor
Palmaz Vineyards: Passionate Pursuit of Wine Making Perfection
By Mike L. McColgan, Resident since 1990
Recently, we had the pleasure of returning to Palmaz Vineyards as part of our quest to visit all 600 Napa wineries—400 and counting! Palmaz holds a special place on our Top 15 Winery list. Nestled on Mt. George, this second-generation winery spans 600 acres in Napa and was founded by Julio and Amalia Palmaz. Their son, Christian, serves as COO; their daughter, Florencia, is the CEO; and their daughter-in-law, Jessica, is the Chief Marketing Officer. Florencia also leads the family’s other primary business, Good Heart Brand Specialty Food Company, based in San Antonio, Texas.
We’ve known this warm and passionate wine family for many years, and their story is both unique and impressive. We were fortunate to travel with Julio, Amalia, and Florencia on a memorable wine cruise through South America, which sailed from Rio de Janeiro down to Buenos Aires. The trip was highlighted by fabulous wine dinners on the Silver Seas Cruise line and an elegant luncheon at the Palmaz oceanfront summer home in Punta del Este, Uruguay.
Palmaz Vineyards features over 100,000 square feet of caves and a gravity-fed winemaking system that produces exceptional wines. Wine club members enjoy elegant themed parties throughout the year and receive a unique gift: an Argentinean Gaucho facón, a silver personal steak knife used at the annual Palmaz Asado barbecue.
Our recent visit was hosted by Julio himself, who guided us through an elegant tasting and food pairing in a private room, complete with a high-tech presentation of each wine. We started with the 2019 Louise Riesling, paired with Southwest Chicken Salad on an Endive Leaf with Miera Cilantro, followed by the 2019 Amalia Chardonnay, paired with Chilled Diver Scallop and Maradal Papaya Mousseline. A vertical tasting of 2019, 2018, and 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon followed, each paired with Wild Mushroom Flan Bruschetta, Flank Steak Roulade with French Mustard, and French Dip Brioche with Horseradish Cream. We also sampled the 2019 Florencia Muscat, paired with Piave Vecchio with Honey and Toasted Almonds, and concluded with the 2017 Gaston 100% Cabernet Sauvignon.
Palmaz Vineyards is a truly unique experience and a mustvisit on your Napa bucket list.
For more information or to make an appointment, visit Palmaz Vineyards.
Delightful Rural Eggplant Dish
By Parisa Z. Ambwani, Resident since 1983
Serves 4.
Preheat oven to 425-degree F.
• 2 globe eggplants (please see note “roasting whole eggplant”)
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 6 garlic cloves, chopped
• ¼ cup olive oil plus 2 tablespoons (for eggs)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric, ground
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, ground
• 1/8 teaspoon of each spice (cardamom and cayenne)
• ½ teaspoon sea salt plus a dash of sea salt (for eggs)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 4 large tomatoes, skinned, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice and 2 teaspoons raw sugar (mix together)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 eggs
Garnish: 1 teaspoon (lightly toasted) sesame seeds and a few tarragons sprig
Roast and chop eggplants and red pepper. Set it aside.
Sauteed onion and garlic in heated ¼ cup olive oil for a few minutes or until golden brown. Add seasoning (turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, cayenne ½ teaspoon salt and pepper). Stir for a minute. Stir in chopped eggplant and bell pepper. Add chicken broth and tomatoes. Bring to simmer and continue slow simmering while stirring for 20 minutes. Stir in lemon and sugar mixture. Transfer eggplant dish into a classic serving dish and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Fry eggs, lightly, in 2 tablespoons of heated olive oil for a few minutes. Sprinkle with a dash of sea salt. Place fried eggs on top of eggplant mixture and garnish with tarragon sprigs. Serve with plain rice or flat bread.
STOP DIETING
Note: Roasting Whole Eggplant: Poke eggplant with a fork in several places and place it on a roasting pan uncovered in preheated 425-degree F. oven for 45-60 minutes. Remove eggplant from oven and place it in brown paper bag, close the bag and let it sit for 20 minutes. Open bag and remove the eggplant’s skin, seeds, trim off the stem and top and discard. Chop eggplant.
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.
Put down the knife…
By Aly Baker
Creative Pumpkin ideas – no carving required
For many, many years I tried carving pumpkins for Halloween. It was messy, difficult and always frightening as I imagined a trip to the emergency room with several severed fingers. This year I went to the internet to find some easy ways to get in the Halloween spirit. Here are just a few of the simple ideas I found.
Mummy Pumpkin
Head to your first aid cabinet for this mummy pumpkin— you’re going to need all the bandages you can find! Simply wrap gauze around the entire pumpkin, leaving a slit open in the front, then glue on a set of googly eyes to complete the look.
Get out the Drill You can pre-mark designs, but even randomly drilled holes look great. Cut a hole in the bottom, scoop out the gunk and add a tea light, battery-powered candle, or even a string of mini lights and you’re done.
Get creative with Paint
Check out all the different paint patterns you can try! Get bold with gold and silver, black and orange. For a dramatic entry stack multiple pumpkins by the front door.
Googly Eyes
In less than a minute create one-of-a kind pumpkins with press on googly eyes.
These fun ideas were brought to you by the Blackhawk Bloomers Garden Club. If you would like to learn more or become a member of this fantastic organization, please contact Maria Knutson at m.knutson@comcast.net
URGENT BUYER NEED!
1)
and I are
4) Timing can be flexible.
If you are HAVING THOUGHTS about a future move, please give us a call!
Fall Craft Ideas
By Michelle Barry, Resident since 2018
This month I’d like to give you some craft ideas for Fall / Halloween and get you started thinking about Holiday gift giving ideas.
The website www.creativebug.com has a lot of instructors with great and creative ideas. One of their instructors, Twinkie Chan, has a beginner crochet series of lessons she released this month: Crochet Sampler: A Daily Practice.
I’m on day nine of the “Sampler Series” and I am enjoying it immensely. The longest lesson in the Daily Practice has been 15 minutes. If you can spare 15 minutes each day, you can learn to crochet and Twinkie Chan makes it fun. Here’s a picture of the sampler:
There are three things I LOVE about crochet. The first is that the investment into the craft is minimal. You can get started for $10. Buy a skein of yarn and a crochet hook and off you go. The second thing I like is that if you make a mistake, you just pull the project apart (back to a ball of yarn) and start over. The third thing I like about it is you can take it with you wherever you go.
Halloween Craft Ideas
Halloween is quickly approaching! Halloween is typically a fun time for young and old. Since we are not sure how much we’ll be able to celebrate this year, crafts are a great way to get us in that Halloween spirit!
The website www.creativebug.com has the cutest crochet cat I’ve ever seen! My daughter and I think it’s adorable and will be doing this as our Halloween project. Twinkie Chan is also the instructor and her videos make the process easy.
The website www.womensday.com had another great Halloween craft idea: “Halloween Broom Candy Bags”. This is super simple and you can use things around the house to complete it. You just need to add the candy!
Another craft that caught my eye was this “Cardboard Haunted House” on the website www.projectkid.com
Holiday Gift Ideas
If I’m going to make gifts for the holidays, I try to make them early. I’ve started now, to ensure they’re completed by early to mid December. This year I decided to sew a pillowcase! This was, by far, the easiest thing I have ever made. It took less than 30 minutes, start to finish. I purchased the Lola Dutch fabric from Wooden Gate Quilts
in Danville. Lola Dutch is a series of children’s books. I plan to give the pillowcase as gifts and I’m going to include a Lola Dutch book with each one.
Wooden Gate Quilts gave me the instructions for free. There are also many videos online you can follow. Just search for “How to make a pillowcase with French seams”. The fabric choices are endless.
If you make anything inspired by my articles, please post them on Instagram. I’d love to see them. Use the hashtag #BHLMCrafts Happy crafting!
Fall Camping Necessities
By Grace Schulte
Personally, fall is my favorite season to camp. The days can be pleasantly warm while the nights are perfectly crisp. If you haven’t gotten a chance to camp in the fall yet but are planning to, here are some of my best tips.
Gear & Clothing
Being that the weather is cooling down, it’s important that you consider your gear. Being aware of the temperature during your trip is imperative. Having the right sleeping bag is important, especially if you camp in a hammock instead of a tent. Insulated tents can provide a little more protection from the nightly chill. My hammock, on the other hand, is not insulated whatsoever, so I typically opt for a slightly warmer sleeping bag.
As with your choices of gear, your choices of clothing are going to largely depend on the weather. Moisturewicking base layers are always nice to have. Layering is your new best friend when it comes to fall camping. Remember that when you’re out hiking, it’s easy to remove a layer but a lot harder to add a layer that never
existed (A.K.A. you decided to leave your long sleeve back at camp). Also, I always recommend a waterproof outer layer.
Other Necessities
Outside of the typical gear and clothing, I like thinking about other equipment that I may want. Hand warmers can be nice during chilly evenings. If you’re cooking your own food, a portable stove, a little propane, and lightweight cookware make the job so much easier. Having hot food while camping in the fall feels like such a luxury. Don’t forget the essentials, such as a first aid kit, waterproof matches or some other kind of firestarter, a headlamp, extra batteries, a multi-tool, etc.
The biggest difference between summer camping and fall camping is the weather change. So be mindful of what to pack, and remember that layering is your best friend!
Princeville, perched on Kauai’s north shore, offers some of the most stunning sunsets on the island. As the day fades, the sun sets behind the dramatic cliffs, casting a warm glow over the Hanalei Bay and the vast Pacific Ocean, creating a perfect harmony
between the lush green mountains and ocean’s gentle waves; offering a moment of peace, reflection and timelessness. Whether you’re relaxing at a resort, walking along the cliffs, or simply taking in the view from a quiet spot, a Princeville sunset is a beautiful
Resident since 2015 | Images by Sonia Lamba
Hanalei Pier
reminder of nature’s ability to inspire awe and bring a deep sense of calm.
Watching the sunset from Hanalei Pier is a quintessential Kauai experience. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the stunning natural beauty, makes it a favorite spot on the north shore, for both
locals and visitors. As the sun dips below the horizon, the gentle waves lap against the shore, and the last rays of light reflect off the water, creating a scene that feels almost magical. Whether you’re standing on the pier, sitting on the beach, or floating in the bay, a sunset at Hanalei Pier is a moment to savor and remember.
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!
View from Welina Terrace, Princeville
Makai Golf Course, Princeville
Padis Fall Events Centered Around Wedding Bands and Watches Ensures There’s Something for Everyone!
The air grows crisper, leaves transition into a vibrant symphony of colors, and love is in the air! Fall, a season of transformation and new beginnings, sets the perfect backdrop for special events as we all begin to gear up for the holidays. Whether you’re a watch enthusiast or a couple preparing for your big day, Padis Jewelry’s events are designed to offer a luxurious, personalized shopping experience that caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. These upcoming events provide a unique opportunity to explore special collections, often featuring limited-time offers, exclusive pieces, and personalized consultations.
October is Fall Wedding Band Month at Padis
In celebration of this romantic season, Padis Jewelry hosts our Fall Wedding Band special event on October 12th, featuring A JAFFE, offering couples a unique opportunity to find the symbol of their eternal commitment amidst the warmth and beauty of autumn with special pricing and savings.
The Fall A JAFFE Wedding Band event showcases an impressive assortment of wedding bands crafted from an array of precious metals including platinum, gold, rose and white gold. Recognizing that each love story is distinct, Padis Jewelry takes pride in offering personalized consultations to guide couples in their selection process. Expert gemologists and jewelry consultants are on hand to provide insights, answer questions, and offer recommendations.
Join us all month at any of our five locations to partake in our wedding band special pricing and be sure to join us in San Francisco on the 12th to see the entire A JAFFE collection and for a chance to win a $1000 credit toward your wedding bands!
Padis
By Steve Padis, Padis Jewelry
Premieres Breitling’s New Partnership with the NFL with a Special Event in Napa
Breitling has teamed up with the National Football League (NFL) to launch a limited-edition collection of watches, paying tribute to all 32 NFL teams. The Chronomat B01 42 NFL Team Editions feature unique designs customized for each team, including their colors, logos, and other subtle details. This collaboration marks the first time a luxury watchmaker has partnered with every team in a major professional sports league.
Each model in the collection is limited to just 104 pieces, symbolizing the NFL’s 104th season. The watches are powered by Breitling’s in-house B01 movement, known for its precision and 70-hour power reserve, and are available on either a stainless steel bracelet or a sporty rubber strap. With a 42mm case and 200 meters of water resistance, these timepieces balance athleticism with elegance. Breitling has also added special NFL touches, such as the team logo at the 9 o’clock sub-dial and the NFL logo on the caseback.
The official launch event for this collection will be held on November 17th at Padis Jewelry Napa as the San Francisco 49ers take on the Seattle Seahawks with a watch and “watch” party in-store. RSVPs are required for this special event, so if you would like to attend as a guest of Blackhawk Living, please reach out to the contact information provided below.
Our teams at Padis Jewelry Walnut Creek, San Francisco or Napa are happy to assist you in any way and deliver your selections to you via our local concierge service. Be sure to join us for our Fall A JAFFE Wedding Band event and our
Breitling Watch & Watch Party. To RSVP, simply email us at concierge@padisjewelry. com or on our live chat on our website at padisjewelry.com. Don’t hesitate to visit us at one of our commission-free shopping environments if we can be of assistance! We look forward to helping you celebrate life’s most precious moments.
