Meet the Papp Family: A Diverse Blend of Cultures and Personalities Resident Feature
Joybound – Looking for Love Pet Corner Real Estate Stats Blackhawk Bloomers Garden Club Kicks Off New Year!
Coffee, Cars and Conversation Expert Contributor
Follow Us on Instagram! Blackhawk
Dove Mountain Upscale Golf in the Sonoran Desert of Tucson Golf Destinations
Mind Over Matter: Your Subconscious Weight Loss Sabotage Expert Contributor
Carve a Pumpkin That Will Last: Easy Shadow Box Pumpkins! Crafts Corner
Running a Successful Business in Blackhawk Plazathe Pros and Cons of this Location Expert Contributor
Ready to Run for Education? The San Ramon Valley Education Foundation
Blackhawk Scholarship Fund Olympics: A Community Celebration for Education Charity Spotlight
Kerala Diaries: An unforgettable vacation experience Life through a Lens
Indian Style Stew with Lentil and Leek In the Kitchen
Aracely LoungeDanville’s Premier Dining & Private Event Destination
Blackhawk Scholarship Fund Olympics: A Community Celebration for Education Charity Spotlight
Embrace the Season: Fall Jewelry Trends to Elevate Your Autumn Look 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.
Dear Neighbors,
This September marks our 115th issue of Blackhawk Living Magazine! We have learned a lot about our community over the past 115 months and have had a blast doing it! We have many more wonderful families to feature and stories to share. On behalf of our publisher, Jo Peek, our photographer, Kim Lind, myself and all of our talented contributors, we want to thank you for letting us share the stories of our community.
We want to thank all of our sponsors for making Blackhawk Living Magazine possible.
Every September, my neighborhood throws an annual Block Party. It’s where we get to know any new neighbors and catch up with everyone else. This block party tradition has been going on for over 30 years on my street. These kinds of community bonding activities are just another reason I cherish Blackhawk.
This month also marks the conclusion of summer and back to a regular routine for many of us. Wishing all our Blackhawk students a great back to school experience and a happy Labor Day!
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
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. From physical therapy to emotional well-being, 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.
Papp Family: Meet the
A Diverse Blend of Cultures and Personalities
By Megan Scott, Resident since 2010
Images Courtesy of Papp Family
Günter and Lilly’s love story began in San Francisco, where they were introduced by a mutual friend and set up on a blind date. Sparks flew and after dating for a year, they got married in Pacifica.
Lilly hails from San Salvador, the vibrant capital of El Salvador. She moved to the United States with her mother during her teenage years and attended Terra Nova High School in Pacifica. She still has a large extended family in El Salvador. Günter was born in Nürnberg, Germany and spent a year living in Toronto before settling down in San Francisco. Once
they got married, the couple settled into various cities on the Peninsula, where they raised their family. “After our children began to start their own careers and families, we decided to make the move to Blackhawk to be closer to our daughter Stacie and her family (two grandchildren),” says Lilly.
An elementary teacher for more than 30 years, Lilly taught for the Archdioceses of San Francisco. As a young man, Günter attended a technical school and apprenticeship program in Germany in order to become an electrical contractor. Once in the US, he used those skills to transition to a position in biomedical engineering at two hospitals in the Bay Area. He worked in biomedical engineering for 40 years. Lilly and Günter are now both enjoying retirement.
Lilly loves spending time outdoors, tending to her garden. To stay fit, she also practices tai chi. She says her favorite way to spend the day, though, is with her grandkids, “I love spending time with my seven and five-yearold grandchildren, (Evan and Sophie), who live in the neighborhood. From family dinners, to cheering them on when they swim, we have so much fun.”
Günter enjoys playing golf and working on his baby, a 1968 Jaguar XKE. “We are also fans of the SF Giants and 49ers. Our favorite sport though is soccer, and we are avid World Cup fans. We were even visiting Germany when Germany won the World Cup in 1990. It was amazing how people celebrated in the streets,” says Günter.
Their two children are now grown and live in the area. Their daughter, Stacie, lives in Blackhawk with her husband Matt and two children Evan and Sophie. Stacie has a marketing background and uses it to assist non-profits. Lily and Günter’s son, Derrick, lives in San Mateo and works at Google.
A 26 year-old cockatiel named Mollie completes the family. “Cockatiels are expected to live 16-25 years, and the oldest was reportedly 36 years old, so we’ll see how close Mollie gets,” says Lilly.
Teaching their children to speak Spanish and German at a young age is something Günter and Lilly say they are very proud of. “Stacie has now passed the Spanish language on to her two children. It’s so important to speak Spanish in a state like California. It’s also so nice to be a part of a family with various cultural heritages. Günter is German, but Lilly is both El Salvadorean and Chinese. There are various traditions for each culture that are nice to pass on to the children. For example, celebrating Lunar New Year or making El Salvadorean pupusas,” says Lilly.
In their younger years, the Papps loved to travel, exploring destinations all over Europe and Central America. With cultural ties to China, Germany, Hungary, and El Salvador, the Papps have learned the value of travel for gaining new perspectives and creating lasting family memories.
These days, Lily and Günter say they cherish their slower paced life in Blackhawk. “It is such a welcoming community. We left behind a network of friends when we moved, so it was so nice to move to a neighborhood that celebrates holidays together and holds block parties. Halloween in our neighborhood is safe and fun with families walking from house to house. We love to participate in the block parties the neighborhood organizes. We look forward to celebrating many more fun events in our neighborhood and with our grandchildren in the community. It’s such a beautiful place to live.”
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 Cole Kuiper, 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.
EMBER
4-Year-Old Male
Meet Ember! He’s the longest-tenured shelter animal at Joybound People & Pets in Walnut Creek. Joybound is officially deeming this month “SeptEMBER” in his honor as we pull out all the stops to find him the loving home he deserves.
Ember is a sweet, 4-year-old dog, who always wants to snuggle and will do just about anything for a bellyrub. He loves more than just people though! This charismatic guy also loves playing with doggie friends. Ember is potty trained in his foster home, happily gives big kisses to people, and has even been learning tricks thanks
to Joybound’s shelter trainers. Plus, his adoption fee has been sponsored by a generous admirer.
We just *know* SeptEMBER is going to be the month Ember is adopted. Not only will he finally have a family to call his own, but someone is going to be so lucky to have such a great dog in their life. Whether you’re looking to adopt a dog, know someone who is ready to adopt, or just want to spread the word, you can help Ember’s story reach its joyful ending.
Visit joybound.org/ember to learn more about Ember and stay tuned all month long as Joybound celebrates this extra-special pup.
A Sampling of Homes Active in your Neighborhood
Blackhawk Bloomers Garden Club Kicks Off a New Year!
By Terrie Gleason
The Blackhawk Bloomers Garden Club kicks off its 2024-2025 year. We have many amazing activities planned and hope you will consider joining us. You do not need to know anything about gardening to participate!
We have monthly luncheons in the ballroom with a featured speaker. Planned topics for the coming year include gardeninspired accessories, floral design, chocolate agriculture and making, perfume making, and do no harm wine making and tasting.
We also conduct workshops where you can get to know other members in a smaller setting. Planned activities include how to make a moss board, a tillandsia wreath, a hanging succulent garden, a flower arrangement, and a terrarium. We also have day away field trips to wonderful garden-related places.
Our group is also very involved in community service. We volunteer at Tassajara Hills Elementary School and work with the kids to teach them how to garden. We also volunteer at The Bounty Garden each summer and grow hundreds of pounds of vegetables for our local food banks and others in need. We also beautify Blackhawk each December by planting thousands of daffodil bulbs.
Please consider joining our welcoming group of women! Our dues are $50 a year. To join, you must be a resident of Blackhawk or a member of the Blackhawk Country Club. To join or learn more, contact Maria Knutson at m.knutson@comcast.net.
Your New Trusted Blackhawk Tax Advisors
info@eastbayacct.com
eastbayacct.com 925-421-2202
3860 Blackhawk Road Suite 190 Danville, CA 94506
EBA provides premier and personalized accounting services to individuals and businesses. Our areas of expertise include individual and business tax preparation and planning, forecasting, bookkeeping, business analysis, entity formation, payroll services, sales tax reporting and other small business services.
After publishing the Top Ten we decided we needed to add to our list after visiting several new wineries. We are now changing our list to read the Top 15,
You may read in detail about all of these on my blog https://mikemccolgan.blogspot.com/
Our Top 15 Favorite Wineries
By Mike L. McColgan, Resident since 1990
We have been very fortunate to visit over 400 wineries in Napa, Sonoma and Healdsburg. Each one is unique.
Many have asked us what are your favorites?
At lunch one afternoon we tried to select our favorites. That was not an easy task. We considered the wine, the terroir, the passion of the winery members and several other points. Each winery has an interesting story and is an experience.
One of our favorite visits was blending our own wine at Raymond Vineyards. Not only did we learn a lot about blending but the wine we made came out great and made us happy. This is another fun and ‘must do’ wine experience.
“McColgan Private Reserve”. It is 50% Cabernet Sauvignon. 30% Merlot, and 20% Cabernet Franc.
In no special order, we would recommend visiting these 15 Wineries. Some are well known, and others are top secrets. The good news is that all of them are close to Danville.
• Antinori Napa Valley-Atlas Peak
• Stag’s Leap-Stags Leap
• Chimney Rock-Stags Leap
• Davis Estates-Napa Valley
• Vineyardist-Diamond Mountain
• Lokoya- Spring Mountain
• Aperture-Healdsburg
• Constant-Diamond Mountain
• Cultivar-Whitehall Lane in the Mayacamas Mountain Range
• VGS Chateau Potelle- Mount Veeder
• Palmaz-Coombsville
• Gandona-Pritchard Hill
• Lithology-Howell Mountain
• Melka Estates-St Helena
• Raymond Vineyards-Napa Valley
Go to their web sites and make an appointment. You will not be disappointed.
karl.schonian@compass.com
510.295.5003
DRE 01246742
510.332.9124 DRE 01718353
Coffee, Cars and Conversation
By Celeste Altus
Summertime in downtown Danville is a great time for car spotting, especially at the casual cars and coffee gatherings at the Livery. Stop by on a Friday morning to get a taste of local classic cars, trucks, custom builds and loud supercars. July and August meetups saw a pair of restored Panteras, a glossy Chevy Bel Air and dozens more. Most of the owners are happy to answer questions and talk about the work they have done on their cars. Some come back week after week, so their car is a fixture of the gathering. It’s a club that is always open to new members.
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
There is nothing quite like playing golf in the middle of summer. You get to take in the gorgeous views of our beautiful Blackhawk course and enjoy the beautiful weather while playing one of the greatest sports. The first weeks of July got a little challenging as the temperatures soared into triple digits. On one of those particular hot days, the Niner’s hosted their annual member/guest invitational held on July 11th. The theme of the event was the Kentucky Derby and the ladies came out in spectacular Kentucky Derby fashion with matching outfits and most famously, beautiful hats made with everything from satin and feathers, fascinators and even horse themed bucket hats! A special thank you to Director of Golf Brian Brake, Niner’s Golf Pro Andrew Brown, Head Golf Pro Thomas Fong and Golf Pro Will Park for their amazing support. A BIG thank you to the amazing team of ladies who created this wonderful event, Channing Azzolino, Linda McColgan, Helen Tarantino, Annette Costello, Leslie Sprague, Lil Giovanzana and Leigh Bultman. Kudos to Bill Bump and Mike McColgan for running the putting contest. Thank you also to our wonderful golf attendants who rode around the course to check on everyone and hand out cold washcloths! Another memorable event!
Congratulations to the winners of the Kentucky Derby Tournament
Seabiscut Flight
First Place
Linda Marver, Patricia Parsell, Marlene Williamson & Nancy Levin
Second Place
Joanne Knapp, Jean Egan, Mary Maag & Jayne Tizzano
Most Accurate Drive
Jayne Tizzano
Closest to Pin
Sung-Jin Ingreselli
Secretariat Flight
First Place
Shelley Foster, Lil Giovanzana, Leslie Sprague & Michelle Lemos
Second Place
Mary Porteous, Carole Kroger, Gail Bishop & Shirley Lowes
Most Accurate Drive
Debra Weber
Putting Contest Winner
Rose Gogerty
Horse Race Putting Contest Winners
Shelley Foster, Lil Giovanzana, Leslie Sprague & Michelle Lemos
Here’s a look at the September Calendar
September 4 - Angel Cup Exchange - Stonebrae
September 5 - Falls Back
September 12 - Lakes Back
September 19 - Charm Day - Falls Front
September 26 - Guest Day - Lakes Front
September 29 - Nine & Dine - Falls Front
Kentucky Derby Member-Guest Tournament
HOX Season Wrap-Up: Breaking Records, Building Friendships and Celebrating Success
By Stacie Mihalik
Asthe summer season slowly comes to an end, the Blackhawk Swim Team’s (HOX) swim season finally comes to a close as well. As always, it was a season where friendships were made and records were broken. Each season consists of a variety of meets held both at the HOX home pool or at an “away” pool. This year the HOX hosted teams including the Rancho San Miguel Swim Club, the Danville Sea Devils, the Sycamore Stingrays, and the Del Amigo Swim Club among others. The HOX also hosted longtime rival Roundhill Country Club for a very spirited meet, which included a breakthrough banner for the HOX swimmers to run through.
Away meets included travel to the Springbrook Swim Team and Diablo Country Club pools. Not to be forgotten are invitational swim meets where swimmers need a certain time before they qualify. The season then culminates with the team’s largest meets—the Valley Swim Association (VSA) Championship meet and the County Championships.
Although there’s plenty of competition, the spirit and the traditions continue through the very end of the season. During coach’s appreciation week, they were showered with love and gratitude for their hard work. From hand drawn pictures to gift cards, no gift was too small. There are two HOX traditions that have endured the test of time. The first is the mini-HOX graduation lap. Mini-HOX is a pre-swim team program which exposes swimmers aged 3-6 to the fun and excitement of being on a swim team. During this graduation at the end of the summer, they swim a lap of the pool in meet like conditions with the entire HOX team cheering them on. The second important tradition is the Hike to the Hawk. Right after the mini-HOX graduation, the entire HOX team climbs a hill to enjoy a beautiful vista and hear an inspiring HOX legend from a well-loved coach.
The season culminates with an awards banquet to celebrate the team as a whole as well as individual swimmers. This season there was much to be proud of. The HOX were 1st in the VSA Championship meet for the fifth year in a row—and there were eight teams represented! During the season’s dual meets, the HOX also went undefeated—this time for the sixth straight year. Although all the HOX swimmers should be congratulated, there were a few that broke some records this season. For example, Tatum Akey won the VSA 15-18 women’s IM and now owns the HOX team record. Her brother, Parker Akey, set a new team and pool record in the 100y backstroke. A few other new pool records below:
15-18 Men’s 200 Free Relay: Parker Akey, Will Gardner, Adrian Lerouge and Josh Wirth
15-18 Women’s 200 Free Relay: Tatum Akey, Emily Craw, Ashley Iattoni, and Mia McConnell
But the best part of the season is the memories these swimmers make with their swim friends, coaches and families. Caden Krukrubo, age 6, shared his excitement, saying, “My favorite swim team memory from this season
is when our team took first place at the VSA Championship swim meet and when I won the Hawk Award at our HOX awards ceremony.” Brooklyn Michiels, age 9, added “My favorite memory this season is floaty races during Spirit Week and making County!” Isabella Valdes, age 14, also shared her joy, “My favorite memory this HOX season was making County in all strokes and making s’mores with my friends!”
These cherished experiences highlight the camaraderie and fun that come from being part of the HOX family. It’s not just about the victories or records, it’s about the friendships formed and the unforgettable moments shared, both in and out of the pool.
To learn more about the HOX swim programs visit www.hoxswim.com.
Dove Mountain –
Upscale Golf in the Sonoran Desert of Tucson
By Chuck Fox, Owner, Quintessential Golf, Resident since 2012
Architect
Jack Nicklaus created 27 holes of challenging and scenic golf at Dove Mountain Golf Club. Blending natural desert saguaros with countless bunkers and waste areas makes this a difficult golf course. Striking vistas of the surrounding Tortolita Mountains ease the pain, and the elegant Ritz-Carlton hotel nearby enhances the experience. You can spend hours honing your game at the extensive practice facility. By the same token, the comfortable stone clubhouse with its outdoor fireplace is perfect for an afternoon lunch or sunset cocktails. A scarcity of homes adds to the ambiance and opens hillside vistas.
The Club hosted the PGA Tour’s Accenture World Match Play Championship for six years from 2009 to 2014. The Championship was played on the Saguaro and Torolita nines which ranked #8 in Arizona by Golf Magazine in 2-16-2017. The third nine, Wild Burro, is said to be Nicklaus’ favorite and is more difficult. To be sure Nicklaus has littered these golf courses with hundreds of bunkers.
Bunkers Galore
Fairway bunkering was much more difficult than expected. For example, bunkers are
often in play on both sides of the fairway. Most of these pot bunkers incorporate sloping perimeters making them difficult to avoid. Occasionally, extended waste areas align the fairway further narrowing the landing areas. It’s tighter than it appears. And it’s easy to get uneven lies. Bunkers are placed either beyond the tee shot landing area or many yards ahead of the green fooling your sense of distance. In addition, the distinctive desert brush terrain of the Sonoran desert is menacing. In the same fashion, more than half of the holes have a desert wash area bisecting the fairway.
As is typical with a Nicklaus design, the greens are large and contoured and you won’t find many level putts. Undulations around the greens require precise chip and pitch shots. Hole #6 on the Torolita nine is an excellent hole. In the tournament, tee locations make it a drivable Par4. The rocky/ sandy desert area 200-220 yards from the tee requires risk/reward decision making.
Dove Mountain Golf Club is difficult. Expect to find challenging bunker situations. Accept just getting your ball back into play. Without a doubt, we found the conditioning superb and the setting tranquil.
If You Go: Course Info –
The Dove Mountain Golf Club (www. dovemountain.com) incorporates 27 holes consisting of the Saguaro, Tortolita and Wild Burro nines.
Location – In the foothills of the Tortolita Mountains in Marana, Arizona. About 100 miles south of the Phoenix airport and 30 miles north of the Tucson airport.
Lodging – The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain (www.ritzcarlton.com) is adjacent to the course. Otherwise, it’s 20 minutes to the nearest accommodation.
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.
Mind Over Matter: Your Subconscious Weight Loss Sabotage
By Kristin Jones, CEO/Owner of Kristin Jones Coaching
We’ve all heard that the mind is a powerful tool, but did you know it might be your biggest weight loss saboteur? Your brain, a complex network of billions of neurons, operates on two levels: the conscious and the subconscious.
Your conscious mind is where conscious decisions are made. It’s the part of you that decides to go for a run or eat a salad. However, it’s the often-overlooked subconscious that truly holds the reins. This vast, hidden part of your brain stores every memory, belief, and habit, acting like an autopilot for your actions.
Over time, your subconscious forms deep-rooted patterns based on repeated thoughts and behaviors. So, if you’ve spent years telling yourself you’re “bad with food” or engaging in unhealthy eating habits, your subconscious has likely accepted this as truth. This is why breaking free from old patterns can be so challenging.
To overcome this, you must become acutely aware of your thoughts. Are they supporting your weight loss goals, or are they perpetuating old, self-defeating beliefs? By shining a light on these subconscious patterns, you can begin to reprogram your mind and create new, healthier habits. Remember, your subconscious is a powerful ally when harnessed correctly. It’s time to turn the tables and let your mind work for you, not against you.
Carve a Pumpkin That Will Last: Easy Shadow Box Pumpkins!
By Michelle Barry, Resident since 2018
As September rolls around, it’s the perfect time to start preparing for Halloween. If you’re like me, you love a good Halloween decoration—especially when it’s simple and stylish.
Today, I’ve got a fun and easy project that I think you’re going to love: Shadow Box Pumpkins!
These pumpkins are not just festive; they’re also designed to last through the season. To create your own Shadow Box Pumpkin, you’ll need a few supplies. Thankfully, craft stores like Michael’s, Joann’s, and online retailers like Amazon offer carve-able craft pumpkins that are perfect for this project.
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
• Carve-able craft pumpkins (from Michael’s, Joann’s or Amazon)
• Black cardstock (orange or yellow as
well if you want to make the witch in front of the moon)
• Tea Lights (if you get the Halloween kind they will even flicker)
• Clay
• Popsicle sticks
• Transparent thread
• Hot Glue
• Cutting Machine like a Cricut or Silhouette or scissors/exacto knife
All the instructions for this project can be found on: crazylittleprojects.com/shadow-box-pumpkins/
Excited for Halloween!
Best, Michelle On Instagram at #bhlmcrafts
Running a Successful Business in Blackhawk Plazathe Pros and Cons of this Location
By Dr. Max Lippman, Plaza Chiropractic & Massage Therapy
Over the last 15 years, I’ve seen a constant turnover in the Blackhawk Plaza.
Shops can’t stay open, people don’t show up, and the plaza loses more and more steam each year. During that time, my practice has thrived, growing by 10-20% every year. We just expanded, and now I work in a dream location with beer on tap and beautiful floor to ceiling views of the hillside while I adjust.
So why can a small chiropractic office thrive while these other businesses fail? It has a lot to do with the way people find a retail shop or restaurant vs how they find a medical office. Doctors are found through insurance, friends and family, or online reviews. People find retail or restaurants by searching for an experience, and lately, the plaza experience hasn’t been desirable. We’ve focused on providing a great value, and for the people living close to our office, it’s a convenient spot to get their bodywork.
On the other hand, I’m not able to attract people easily from Walnut Creek, Dublin, or Pleasanton, but there are plenty of people here in Blackhawk, Danville, and San Ramon to keep our tables full. And let’s face it, these people are the best.
Thanks to all of you that are current clients. Come by for a beer or kombucha off the tap, and let’s figure out how to get you feeling your best.
Ready to Run for Education?
By Alicia Gee, SRVEF Project Manager
Walk, run, roll, or stroll with friends, family, neighbors, teammates, and colleagues in support of our schools at the 41st Run for Education 5K/10K/Mini Run/Friendship Run + Expo on Sunday, October 13, 2024 at 2700 Camino Ramon, San Ramon. Don’t miss out on all the fun - a kids’ zone complete with inflatable games, face painter, balloon artist, photo booth, live entertainment, snacks, giveaways, and more!
Get your little superheroes ready. Our Mini Run is perfect for “mini runners” ages 2-6. Also, join us for our Friendship Run for participants with special needs and their supporters. Both Mini and Friendship Run participants will receive a signature cape, shirt, medal, and post-race treats.
By participating, you are helping to raise needed funds for our local public schools. Proceeds have funded:
• Hands-on science kits
• Elementary school maker spaces
• Musical instruments
• Art supplies
• Science projects
• Technology
• School libraries
• Teacher grants for all levels, and more!
For more information and to register or volunteer, visit srvef.org/the-run.
Blackhawk Scholarship Fund Olympics: A Community Celebration for Education
By Cassandra Boyer
BLACKHAWK SCHOLARSHIP FUND OLYMPICS A
Saturday, September 28, 2024
Blackhawk Country Club Sports Complex 1098 Eagle Nest Place Danville, CA 94506
• Olympics Event 1:00pm - 4:30pm
• Entertainment & Dinner 5:00pm - 9:00pm
Olympics:
• Cornhole
• Blackhawk “Top Golf”
• Bocce Ball Accuracy Roll
• Stationary Bike Race
O L Y M P I C S : E N T E R T A I N M E N T & D I N N E R :
• Pickleball Target Practice
Create a team at $65 per person: $390 for a 6 person team or $650 for a 10 person team. $25 Spectator admission. All ages are welcome!
$ 6 5 0 f o r a 1 0
p e r s o n t e a m . $ 2 5 S p e c t a t o r a d m i s s i o n .
Entertainment & Dinner: The fun and laughs continue after the Olympics on Court One at the Sports Complex (outdoor and casual dress)
A L L A G E S A R E W E L C O M E !
O R T H E T O P 3 T E A M S ! O L Y M P I C S E V E N T 1 : 0 0 P M - 4 : 3 0 P M E N T E R T A I N M E N T & D I N
Learn more about how The Blackhawk Scholarship Fund is a volunteer-led non-profit that enriches the lives of exceptional Contra Costa Co. women in financial need by donating nearly $500K in scholarships: bwscholarshipfund.com.
Questions or want to donate auction items? Contact Cassandra Boyer, VP of Fundraising, at BWScholarshipFund@gmail.com
There will be gold, silver, & bronze awards for the top 3 teams!
T H E R E W I L L B E G O L D , S I L V E R , & B R O N Z E A W A R D S
Kerala Diaries: An unforgettable vacation experience
By Sonia Lamba, Resident since 2015 | Images by Sonia Lamba
…in continuation
My next stop was the misty hill-station of Munnar, renowned for its lush tea gardens and stunning landscapes. Here, I wandered through the endless tea plantations of beautiful Lockhart Tea Estate and learned about the art of tea-making at the Tata Tea Museum, the first of its kind in the country.
From Munnar, I journeyed to Thekkady, home of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The boat safari on Periyar Lake gave me close encounters with elephants, deer and a variety of bird species. A tour of the aromatic spices at the Periyar Spice Plantation provided a sensory feast, with the heady scents of cardamom, pepper and cloves filling the air.
Next, I visited Kumarakom Lake Resort, the jewel of Kerala’s backwaters. I cruised to Alleppey and back on a luxurious houseboat, drifting through the tranquil waters of Vembanad Lake surrounded by swaying coconut trees and charming small villages.
My journey continued to Varkala, a coastal town with dramatic cliffs and spectacular views of Arabian Sea from the Varkala Cliff.
From Varkala, I traveled to Kovalam, Paradise of the South, famous for its golden beaches and vibrant beach culture.
My final destination was Kanyakumari, the southern most tip of India; where the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean meet. I took a short ferry ride to Vivekananda Rock Memorial, perched on a rock island where Swami Vivekananda is said to have attained enlightenment. Close-by, the statue of Indian poet-saint Thiruvalluvar, standing tall against the backdrop of the sea, was an awe-inspiring sight.
Each destination on my trip offered unique experiences and unforgettable memories, making Kerala a truly enchanting place to explore; not to forget the Ayurvedic messages along the way that provided a perfect way to rejuvenate my body and mind.
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!
Sonia Lamba
View from Kanyakumari Pier
Lockhart Tea Estate, Munnar
Houseboat ride from Kumarakom Lake Resort
Indian Style Stew with Lentil and Leek
By Parisa Z. Ambwani, Resident since 1983
Serves 8
• 2 large onions, chopped
• ½ cup olive oil
• 3 large, ripe, red tomatoes, peeled, diced
Seasoning (please see sambal)
• 2 teaspoons turmeric, ground
• ¼ teaspoon paprika, ground
• 2 cups red lentils, cleaned
• 4 cups leek, cleaned, chopped
• ¼ cup unsweetened coconut, shredded
• 2 cups spring water
• 1 red bell pepper, peeled, diced
• 2 teaspoons sambal powdered spice-
• 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
OR to taste
• Juice of 2 lemons, or 1 teaspoon tamarind (dissolved in ¼ cup water)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
Garnish: ½ cup cilantro, chopped
In a 4 qt. stock pot, stir-fry onions in heated olive oil for 3 minutes until slightly golden brown. Stir in tomatoes and bell pepper for 1 minute. Add 2 teaspoons sambal spices, turmeric, and paprika. Stir for 2 minutes. Add lentils, leeks, coconut, water, almond milk, and salt. Bring the content to high simmering, reduce the heat to low simmering, partially cover the pot and let cook for 20 minutes, stir occasionally. Stir in lemon juice and brown sugar and continue simmering for a few minutes or until done.
Transfer stew to serving plate and garnish with cilantro. Serve with flat bread or chapati.
Sambal Powdered Spice Seasoning:
• 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
• ½ tablespoon coriander seeds
• ½ tablespoon black peppercorns
• ½ teaspoon fennel seeds
• ½ teaspoon mustard seeds
• ½-inch cinnamon stick, cut into very small pieces
• ¼ teaspoon red chili, dried (optional)
• 6 curry leaves (kari patta), OR kaffir lime leaves, dried (please see note)
• 6 cardamom pods, remove the seeds from the pods and use with spices
In a heated large skillet, combine all of ingredients (cumin seeds, coriander seeds, black peppercorns, fennel seeds, mustard seeds, cinnamon stick, red chili, curry leaves and cardamom seeds. Stir constantly until the seeds are aromatic and lightly toasted (about 2 minutes).
Let the spices cool. Transfer spices into a spice grinder and grind to a fine powder. Save “Sambal” in a sterilized spice jar and keep along with other spices. It has a beautiful flavor and lasts for a few months.
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.
Aracely LoungeDanville’s Premier Dining & Private Event Destination
By Megan Scott and Junior Reporters Austin S. And Joshua Y.
Local Danville mom, Linda Edson, has brought her newest culinary masterpiece to Danville with the beautiful Aracely Lounge. This year, an opportunity opened up to take over the space on Prospect Ave that was previously a piano bar. In about 2.5 months the space was transformed into a space for people to enjoy brunch, dinner, drinks and host private events.
LAMORINDA PAINTING
We are thrilled to be able to support this locally owned business. Linda’s passion for food and creating beautiful, inviting spaces shine in the new Aracely Lounge.
We had the courage to bring two hungry 11-year-olds with us. The restaurant is perfect for date night, or a family friendly lunch/brunch. And the adorable patio is dog friendly. The patio also has a large space perfect for hosting events.
The menu was a delicious variety of brunch items and classic lunch entrées. Our favorite was the carrot cake pancakes. Also, don’t miss the Hibiscus Refresher drink. It was perfect.
Embrace the Season: Fall Jewelry Trends to Elevate Your Autumn Look
By Steve Padis, Padis Jewelry
As the leaves begin to turn and a crisp breeze ushers in the fall season, it’s the perfect time to refresh your jewelry collection and embrace the season’s trends. Fall jewelry is all about rich textures, warm hues, and versatile pieces that complement the changing weather and your cozy wardrobe. Here’s a guide to the must-have jewelry trends for fall 2024 that will help you shine throughout the season.
Layered Chains and Mixed Metals
Fall is synonymous with deep, earthy colors that mirror the changing landscape. Layering continues to be a popular trend, and fall is the perfect time to experiment with mixing different metals. Combining gold, silver, and rose gold can create a dynamic look that’s both modern and classic. Opt for layered chains of varying lengths and textures to add depth and interest to your outfit. This style works well with both casual and formal attire, making it a versatile choice for the season.
Bold Statement Earrings
Statement earrings are making a strong comeback this fall. Think oversized hoops, geometric shapes, and colorful embellishments. These bold accessories can transform a simple outfit into something special. Whether you’re attending a formal event or simply dressing up for a day out, statement earrings are a fantastic way to add a pop of personality to your look. Look for designs that incorporate fall colors or materials like velvet and enamel for a seasonal touch.
Textured Metals and Unique Finishes
Textured metals are a significant trend for fall, adding a tactile dimension to your jewelry. Look for pieces with hammered finishes, matte textures, or intricate engravings. These designs provide a more rustic and organic feel, complementing the fall season’s aesthetic. Unique finishes can elevate simple pieces and make them stand out.
Personalized and Custom Pieces
Personalized jewelry continues to be popular, allowing you to showcase your individuality. Fall is a great time to invest in custom pieces that reflect your personal style or commemorate special moments. Consider jewelry with initials, birthstones, or meaningful symbols. These personalized items can be cherished for years and make thoughtful gifts for loved ones.
Fall is a season rich in color, texture, and style, and your jewelry should reflect that vibrancy. By incorporating these trends into your collection, you can stay stylish and seasonal while embracing the essence of autumn. Whether you’re drawn to the warmth of earthy tones, the charm of vintage designs, or the boldness of statement pieces, there’s something for everyone this fall. So, get ready to layer, sparkle, and shine as you celebrate the beauty of the season with your jewelry choices
We treasure the generations of families who allow us to become a part of their most precious moments. Please feel to reach out if we can answer any questions and if we can be of assistance at concierge@padisjewelry.com – we also offer concierge delivery services to our Blackhawk neighbors.
