2 DECEMBER 2022 All dogs must pass an evaluation to ensure their safety and comfort in open-play environment. Safe, open-play daycare Fun-filled days with their BFFFs® (Best Furry Friends Forever) Live playroom webcams Exercise & education GIVE YOUR DOG the GIFT of daycare! Dogtopia of Blackhawk 3630 Blackhawk Plaza Circle Danville, CA 94506 dogtopia.com/blackhawk 925-412-3200 Mention this ad for Blackhawk Living offer!
BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 3 05 06 08 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 22 24 25 26 28 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 Letter to Residents Expert Contributors List Meet the Choi Family: Enjoying Each Moment to the Fullest Resident Feature ARF Adoption Stars Pet Corner Real Estate Statistics Calendar of Events How To Get More Youthful Looking Breasts Expert Contributor The Millennial Market: How to Successfully Sell Your Home Expert Contributor Be a Friend! Support Your Local Library Diamond Window Cleaning is ready to exceed your expectations Business Profile Blackhawk Women’s Team Reaches USTA National Tennis Championships Tennis Message from the Chief Message from Blackhawk Police Mustang Soccer 2022 News Local Sports Blackhawk Women’s Golf Association Updates Local Sports The HOX Swim Team Updates Local Sports Check Out The Blackhawk Niners Local Sports Tri-Valley Animal Rescue - Giving them another chance Pet Corner Christmas Events for Kids Kid’s Corner The Gold Course at Tiburon Golf Destinations Alfisti - The Passion that Combines Alfa + Romeo Cars and Coffee December Craft: A Simple Way to Display Your Holiday Cards Crafts Corner Oh the Gardens You Might See In the garden The Royal Tea Garden in Pleasanton Spotlight on Local Businesses Support our Tassajara Hills Elementary School Foundation: Together We Soar Spotlight on Local Businesses The Yellow Chilli: A New Danville Restaurant Wine, Food, Golf & Fun Header The Holidays Are Here – And Even Last Minute There’s No Need to Fear! Expert Contributor Table of Contents
4 DECEMBER 2022
The holidays are a time for honoring traditions: tree lighting ceremonies, giving to those less fortunate, and pretending to love your aunt’s famous fruit cake. But it’s also a time for forging new traditions. Signing up for a charity run? Traveling to a new destination? Don’t be afraid to shake things up—the end of the year, and the beginning of a new decade is when legends are made. This month’s community calendar is filled with fun ideas on how to make this year’s holiday celebrations memorable. And this month’s featured Blackhawk cover story features the Choi Family: Enjoying Each Moment to the Fullest. On behalf of all of us on the Blackhawk Living Magazine team, we want to wish you and yours a very happy holiday season!
BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 5 Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses Publication
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Feedback/Ideas/Submissions: Have feedback, ideas, or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 10th of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas, and photos to: mscott@bestversionmedia.com. Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2022 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.
Team Publisher: Jo Peek, Blackhawk Resident since 2014
Coordinator: Megan Scott Blackhawk Resident since 2010 Designer: Emily Lund
Photographer: Indigo Moments Photography
Jo Peek Email: JPeek@bestversionmedia.com
Dear
Warmly,
Neighbors,
Jo Peek
EMILIANA FLEMATE BAKER Luxury Real Estate Professional 408.718.4381 Emiliana.Baker@compass.com DRE# 02085461 DreamHomeLivingToday.com Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01527235. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of description. All measurements and square footage are approximate. Buy & Sell Relocating and helping others buy and sell homes has been an amazing experience. Once they are settled, seeing how they enjoy their new location is icing on the cake. Reach out for your next home journey. It’s always a good time to sell or buy with our support. I look forward to helping! Scan to see your home value.
Megan Scott Resident since 2010
Expert Contributors
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Jo Peek at jpeek@bestversionmedia.com.
Auto Sales & Service
Kerri Anderson Pleasanton Automall Kerri.Anderson@hendrickauto.com 925-737-5062
Cosmetic Surgery
Stephen J. Ronan MD FACS
Blackhawk Plastic Surgery and Migraine Center 925-736-5757 www.blackhawkplasticsurgery.com
Dance
The Dancer’s Institute Lacey Price 510-703-7630 https://www.thedancersinstitute.com/
Dentist
Dr. Larry Porteous DDS Larry Porteous Family Dentistry 925-736-9000
Home Maintenance
Home Inspections Plus
Mark Beck 925-240-0441 m.beck@localinspector.com www.localinspector.com
Insurance
Roger Fernando State Farm Roger Fernando Agency 925-244-1700 roger@rogerfernando.com
Investigations
The Frame Group www.TheFrameGroup.com 9000 Crow Canyon Road, Suite 395 Danville, California 94506 Tel: 1.925.837.8309 | Fax: 1.925.837.8737
Jewelry, Diamonds & Timepieces
Steve Padis Steve Padis Jewelry info@padisjewelry.com www.padisjewelry.com
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.
Blackhawk Plastic Surgery has been offering their patients the highest quality cosmetic treatments in the Blackhawk area for more than 15 years. Now they are thrilled to introduce the Blackhawk Migraine Clinic led by migraine specialist, Alicia Choquette. Alicia brings over 5 years of migraine expertise to the Blackhawk Migraine Clinic and looks forward to helping patients live a better quality of life migraine free.
We are a new dance school serving the San Ramon Valley area. We are striving to bring proper technique to students in a firm but friendly environment. We believe in fostering the passion to move in a dancer and creating an environ ment where that passion can grow and mature. Technique, creativity, passion and love are all elements of dance in which we want to see our students find success by taking class at our studio.
At Home Inspections Plus, we have two basic rules: client satisfaction and long-term relationships. With our many years of business experience and over 6,000 fee paid inspections, we believe after you try our service, you will gladly refer others to us and use us in the future. Realtor and consumer inquiries welcome!
Roger Fernando has been a State Farm Agent for 30 years, starting his insurance agency in 1988. Roger and his team are fully licensed. We take pride in giving personal, exceptional service, in talking and listening to our clients about their insurance needs. Our mission has always been to consult with customers as their insurance needs change, protect their insurance for the risks of everyday life and help recover from the unexpected loss.
Michael F. Framé received his formal investigative training from the United States Department of Justice (FBI), the United States Secret Service, IRS, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) while serving as an undercover narcotics investigator assigned to the Vice Crimes Division of the Oakland Police Department. This training included asset identification and discovery, money laundering, fraud, financial crimes, business intelligence, organized and whitecollar crime, narcotics processing, sales, possession, and influence.
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
top 5% of jewelers across the country.
6 DECEMBER 2022
Society, Padis is among the
www.BlackhawkLivingCA.com Find us online BlackhawkLivingCA
Porteous Family Dentistry- Larry Porteous DDS and Linda Porteous RDH have been serving the dental needs in the communities of Rodeo,Vallejo and Blackhawk/Danville for over 30 years.They are a full service practice, eliminating, in most cases, the need for referrals. Offering extended hours for your convenience. “Our practices are dedicated to treating and preventing dental diseases in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. We strive to give each person the same respect, concern and care we would expect as patients.
Expert Contributors
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Jo Peek at jpeek@bestversionmedia.com.
Mortgage
CrossCountry Mortgage LLC W. Todd Galde 925-854-5238 todd.galde@myccmortgage.com www.toddgalde.com
Music: Soloist & Private Voice Lessons Elizabeth Hunter Ashley The Performance Studio 925-548-2694 Elizabeth@elizabethhunterashley.com www.elizabethhunterashley.com
Pool Service
Jon Lubrano Atlantis Pools 925-736-0447 info@atlantispoolsdanville.com atlantispoolsdanville.com
Real Estate
Compass DRE# 02085461 Emiliana Flemate Baker emiliana.baker@compass.com 408.718.4381
Tree Service
Trex Donovan Buena Vista Tree Service 415-531-1247 ntdonovan@yahoo.com www.buenavistatree.com
Wealth Advisor
WestPac Wealth Partners
Phil Kang, CExPTM Henry Chau, CPWA® 925-350-6588 info@westpacwealth.com www.westpacwealth.com
After more than 20 years, Todd Galde has mastered the process of helping borrowers with different income sources, matching the correct loan to their unique circumstances. We teach and advise, then we customize. A Direct Lender, Team Galde offers solutions with competitive rates and financing programs that give you more qualifying options, including the unique NINE Loan for owner-occupied purchase or refinance. Learn more at www.The9Loan.com.
Professional lyric coloratura soprano, Elizabeth has extensive experience as a soloist in oratorio, concert, musical theatre, sacred music, and new music. She performs nationally and internationally with renown conductors, orchestras, composers, international communities, and holds a myriad of national credits including MM degree. As the proprietor of her vocal music studio, she has taught 300+ private students from youth to mature adults offering them a sustainable vocal technique, biannual voice recitals which include philanthropic fund raisers, music connections in the community, performance preparation for high school top choirs, vocal competitions, college prep. recordings, pageant training. Elizabeth is a member of NATS, CCMTAC, an adjudicator for CMEA, and NATS.
Atlantis Pools Inc. is a family owned business that has been serving Contra Costa County for over 25 years. From pool re pair, 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.
Emiliana Flemate Baker is a Luxury Real Estate Professional with over 28 years of experience in the Bay Area. Our team fo cuses on providing a high level of service to others during one of the most exciting and stressful times in one’s life; buying or selling a home. We strive to make it as easy and enjoyable as possible. With global outreach and expertise in the indus try, we are like a secret weapon!
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.
Uniquely positioned to offer our clients access to one of the most comprehensive financial product platforms available today, Westpac envisions and enhances our clients’ goals by designing a customized strategy and creating a life map to achieve and protect their wealth.
BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 7
Meet the Choi Family: Enjoying Each Moment to the
By Megan Scott, Resident since 2010 Images courtesy of the Choi family
Fullest
Both Linda and Sung were born in Seoul, South Korea. Sung spent his childhood in Chicago and Linda in Vacaville. They began their married life in Chicago and relocated to San Ramon in 2004. “We made the move to Blackhawk in 2015 because we were looking for a feeling of community and loved all the of activities, such as golf, tennis and swimming for our three active sons,” says Linda.
Linda attended UC Davis for her undergraduate degree and went on to receive a Doctor of Pharmacy from the University of the Pacific. She currently works for Kaiser Permanente as a Regional Pharmacy Director.
Sung attended the University of Illinois Champaign/ Urbana for his undergraduate degree and then received a Doctor of Pharmacy from University of Illinois, Chicago. He currently works for Cardinal Health Nuclear Pharmacy Health Services as an Area Pharmacy Manager.
They both love their careers and that they both work in the same field. “We really enjoy what we do. We both do not have the typical pharmacist jobs that one would normally think. I have been with Cardinal Health since 2004, and my career is unique because I deal with radioactive drugs used for diagnostic imaging and cancer therapy. Linda has been working for Kaiser Permanente for 24 years and has had the opportunity to work in many different pharmacy settings. Linda oversees regional pharmacy projects that promote pharmacy innovation,” says Sung.
Amutual friend introduced Sung and Linda. On the night they met, Sung says he knew she was the one, “I just knew the first time I met her that I would marry her. There was instant chemistry, and we mutually felt like we have known each other for a long time. I told her friend the first night that we met that I would marry her, and Linda thought I was crazy. We got married in 2001 and celebrated our 21st wedding anniversary this past June.”
Golf is one of Sung’s favorite hobbies and one of the reasons they love living in Blackhawk. “I play a lot of golf on the Blackhawk courses. I am part of the Blackhawk 12-man NCGA team, East Bay League. I also represented Blackhawk at the NCGA 2man Finals. We’ve been able to make a lot of wonderful friends through golf in Blackhawk; it’s a big part of our lives,” says Sung. His other passion is poker. He has played in the World Series of Poker this past year and plans to play in the main event in 2023.
Giving back to the community is a top priority for the Choi family. “We are members of the Boys Team Charity Alamo/Danville League. We want the kids to know that giving back to the community is important,” says Linda.
8 DECEMBER 2022 Resident Feature
Feature
& Massage Therapy
Resident
is proudly sponsored by Plaza Chiropractic
Being Bay Area based, and from Chicago, they love following the Warriors Basketball team and all the sports teams from Chicago.
Three rapidly growing boys complete the Choi family. The oldest, Matthew, is 15 years old and attends Monte Vista High School. He loves tennis and plays on the Blackhawk Tennis Team and the Monte Vista High School Tennis team. He spent this summer working as a camp counselor for the Blackhawk Tennis Camp.
Nathan is the middle child. He’s 12 years old and loves golf and basketball. He plays on the Blackhawk Junior PGA league and CYO basketball at St Isidore’s.
The youngest, Noah, is 9 years old and is passionate about art and music. He also recently started fencing.
As any of their neighbors may tell you, the family’s dog, Coco, might be the most popular member of the Choi family. Coco is a 3-year-old Maltipoo and is the friendliest dog ever!
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.
BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 9
Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses
ARF Adoption Stars
By Christa Noriega, ARF Adoption Manager
Adopt a new best friend at ARF in Walnut Creek! View available dogs and cats online or visit ARF in-person: Wednesday-Sunday, 12-6pm, with early-bird sign-in available on weekdays beginning at 9 am. Our team is excited to guide you in choosing a pet, share information about their history and behavior, and provide helpful resources. This process can take time—please allow 60-90 minutes for in-person appointments. Here are a few of our adorable animals looking for love:
Daddy Longleg
Four-year-old Daddy Longlegs is as regal as they come! A noble king of a Pomeranian mix who could probably star in a shampoo commercial. He is polite to everyone he meets but is looking for his special somebody to cuddle up next to on the couch every night. Daddy Longlegs has a positive history with other dogs and currently weighs 14 pounds.
Four-year-old CD comes with a personality even bigger than he is! This American Bulldog mix is a lover of all his human caretakers, as well as his canine companions. He is smart as a whip, adaptable, and resilient, too! CD has a positive history with other dogs and currently weighs 81 pounds.
ARF Adoption fees: $125 for an adult cat, $175 for a kitten (<6 months), $200 for two adult cats, $300 for two kittens, $75 for a special-needs cat, $100 for a special-needs kitten (<6 months), and $75 for a senior cat (7+ years). Adoption fees are waived for US military Veterans.
ARF adoption fees: $250 for an adult dog, $375 for a puppy (<6 months), $150 for a special-needs dog, $200 for a special-needs puppy (<6 months), and $150 for a senior dog (7+ years). Adoption fees are waived for US military Veterans.
10 DECEMBER 2022
CD
Pet Corner
BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 11 Real Estate ACTIVE BLACKHAWK LISTINGS Active Real Estate Listings in Blackhawk Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the listings of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the real estate community in the area. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.
BridgeMLS
Street List Price Sq.Ft. BR BT $2,598,000.00 $2,198,800.00 $3,200,000.00 $2,599,800.00 308 Red Maple Dr 27 Sugar Pine Ln 4320 Quail Run Ct 3649 Deer Trail Dr 3310 2946 3867 4022 4 4 5 5 3 3 5 3 SOLD BLACKHAWK LISTINGS PENDING BLACKHAWK LISTINGS Street List Price Sold Price Sq.Ft. BR BT Street List Price Sq.Ft. BR BT $1,525,000.00 $1,525,000.00 $1,850,000.00 $2,350,000.00 $2,580,000.00 $2,100,000.00 $2,085,000.00 $1,525,000.00 $1,599,900.00 $1,999,000.00 $2,550,000.00 $2,650,000.00 $2,148,000.00 $2,085,000.00 $2,399,000.00 $2,995,000.00 $1,679,000.00 516 Eagle Valley Way 249 Conifer Ter 306 LIVE OAK DR 4088 Sugar Maple Dr 733 Liquidamber Pl 3098 Deer Meadow Dr 3046 Deer Meadow Dr 4121 Fox Creek Ct 3436 Deer Ridge Dr 3045 Live Oak Ct 2236 2079 2408 3077 3469 2706 3769 3500 4438 2666 3 3 4 5 5 4 4 4 4 3 2 2 2 2 3 2 2 3 3 2
Source:
11/10/2022 Courtesy of Kelley Krock at Redfin
December
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Sun., Dec. 11
Home for the Holidays
@Blackhawk Country Club
An evening with the Blackhawk Chorus to get you in the spirit. Time 5:30pm
To reserve your tickets, visit blackhawkcc.org
Sat., Dec. 24
Christmas Eve Dinner
@Blackhawk Country Club
Spend Christmas Eve at a festive dinner with the Blackhawk Community. Time: Seating starts at 4pm To reserve your spot, visit blackhawkcc.org
Sat., Dec. 31
Family New Year’s Eve Party
@Blackhawk Country Club
Celebrate New Year’s in New York at the Lakeside Ballroom. Sparking Cider and Champage toast at midnight New York time. Dinner, dancing, games and more. Time: 6-9:30pm
To reserve your spot, visit blackhawkcc.org
Throughout December (Thurs. - Sun. evenings)
Garden
of D’Lights
@Ruth Bancroft Garden
Experience the Ruth Bancroft Garden in a whole new way at this year’s Garden of D’Lights. With more lights and more lasers, this year’s Garden of D’Lights is set to be better than ever. Guests of all ages are in for a holiday treat as they meander through the Garden’s 3.5 acres of mature cacti, succulents and trees that are transformed into magical colorful botanical sculptures by thousands of lights. Don’t miss this special opportunity to enjoy the holiday season safely outdoors in the Garden of d’Lights! Timed tickets by reservation only @5:30, 6:30 or 7:30 pm. Cost: $20 adults, $10 children 6-15, free for children 5 and under Ruthbancroftgarden.org
2nd Thursday of each month Widow Support And Social Group
@ Lakeside Boardroom, 599 Blackhawk Club Drive Danville. TOPICS
INCLUDE: Dealing with stress. Staying healthy. Making new friends. Enjoying your life and having more fun. Optional no-host lunch at Lakeside Clubhouse Grille. Elevator available. Chair: Ann Taylor. Please contact Ann at 925-838-5556 or anntaylor007@ comcast.net. All widows are welcome. NO CHARGE FOR MEETINGS. Time: 10:15-11:45am
Every Monday During Football Season
Football at The Falls
Food stations 5:00pm through 3rd quarter Raffle at half time
No host bar opens one hour before game start Admission: adults $25++ kids 11 & under $14
SAVE THE DATE
Start The New Year Off Right Hall-of-famer MJ McColgan’s 7th Annual Red Cross Gift Of Life Blood Drive
When: Friday, January 13. 10:00 am to 4:00pm Where: Blackhawk Lakeside Small Ball Room 1 pint saves 3 lives
How To Get More Youthful Looking Breasts
By Stephen J. Ronan MD FACS, Blackhawk Plastic Surgery and MedSpa
Did you know that more than 71% of all women in the United States are dissatisfied to some extent with the appearance of their breasts? And while many women wonder how they can achieve more perky and youthful looking breasts, most do not understand the reasons why breasts can change shape, volume and positioning over time.
Gravity naturally pulls breasts down against the rib cage. Additionally, you lose skin elasticity as you age. Pregnancy and significant fluctuations in weight can also add volume to the breasts. This makes them heavier and more likely to droop. In some cases, breasts can droop so much that they develop stretch marks and can lead to back and neck pain.
Fortunately, there are several surgical procedures available that can address many of these issues, and ultimately improve the appearance of your breasts. Of course, your options will be based on the natural size and shape of your breasts, and your desired outcome.
The two most common procedures are breast augmentation and breast lift. What’s the difference? In simple terms, an augmentation makes you larger and a lift makes you higher. Many patients and some surgeons confuse these two procedures because they think an implant will provide volume and lift. It will not. An implant makes you larger and restores volume. But if your breast is droopy, a lift is typically recommended…and for many women, both procedures are recommended at the same time to get the desired more youthful looking results.
For over 25 years, The Framé Group, Inc. has been the firm of choice for leading litigators, corporate counsel, sports franchises, public figures, multinational corporations, the United States Department of Justice, and Fortune 500 companies.
Industry Leading Experience, References & Results
Contact Michael F. Framé at michael@theframegroup.com
San Francisco Bay Area Phone: 1.925.837.8309 Los Angeles Phone: 1.310.337.0025
Breast augmentations and lifts are very safe procedures. Breast implants do not cause breast cancer or any other systemic disease, and most patients do not have a permanent change in sensation after surgery. However, in order to ensure the safest outcome, I recommend that all surgery be performed in a certified surgery center with an anesthesiologist present.
Breast Augmentation Virtual Event + Live Q&A: On December 6th at 5:30 PM I will be conducting an online webinar to provide an overview and answer questions about the various breast procedures we offer at our Blackhawk Plastics Surgery center. You can sign up for this event via the following URL: https://bit.ly/bhpsevent or simply by scanning the QR code that is in our ad elsewhere in this publication.
At the end of the day, the single best way to determine if you are a good candidate is to schedule a complimentary consultation by calling our office at 925.736.5757. For those who do call and/or attend our event, here’s looking forward to seeing many of you online or in person in the coming weeks to discuss your various options for achieving more youthful looking breasts.
BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 13 Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses
Expert Contributor
The Millennial Market: How to Successfully Sell Your Home
By Reema Kumar, Luxury Home Specialist
Selling your home successfully in any market is no different than buying your home in a hot market. On both ends, the key indicator is how easy the buyer or seller makes it for the other party to accept. —Reema Kumar, Luxury Home Specialist
The key to any successful home sale is rooted in the details of professionally presenting your home in any market. From 2021 into the first quarter of 2022, homes were selling as quickly as they were entering the market, caused by low-interest rates, covid crisis, and a booming stock market. The market value price acceleration left home sellers confident about entering the arena.
Yet, even in one of our hottest markets with historically lowinterest rates, some homes did not move as quickly as others for the highest and best price.
This introduces a healthy curiosity about where the differences were in those home sales and what a seller should do to avoid similar errors. Highly profitable home sales are fueled by understanding who is in the market to buy and how they approach the buying process. According to the National Association of Realtors, 43% of millennials make up the buyer market. It is crucial to grasp that the millennial consumer has matured in a fast-paced environment driven by data, technology, and high regard for aesthetically pleasing visuals. This is why the presentation of any home these days leaves no room for any error for a buyer to question if the home fits their lifestyle.
To attract the millennial mindset, it is imperative to partner with an agent that understands the art of creating the right image for your home. A masterpiece that sells and captures the below components:
• Captivating Home Description
• Competitively Priced Home
• Professional Images
• Professional Photography
• Professional Staging
• Showing Availability
In sought-after communities, homes will continue to sell quickly and over the list, and to ensure that you receive the highest and best value, it is vital to spare no details in setting your home up for the market.
Agents play a critical role in the facilitation of your greatest asset. Finding an agent who is reachable, highly communicative, and a problem-solver is one of the first steps you can take in the right direction. Selling your home shouldn’t be scary when you have the right agent. Get in touch today to learn more about successfully selling your home or for a free listing consultation.
Emiliana Flemate Baker Group- Compass- Is always opening doors. Dreamhomelivingtoday.com
14 DECEMBER 2022 Expert Contributor
Be a Friend!
By Cynthia Sofranac, Co-Chair of Membership, Friends of the Danville Library
For over 60 years, the Friends of the Danville Library (FODL) has generously helped make the Library a truly special place. Through sales in its Library Bookstore as well as through special book sale events all year round, the Friends group has contributed to the Library’s adult and children’s programs, special on-site events, as well as the purchase of new books and materials benefiting all patrons. And there is always a need for new members! So “Be a Friend” and pick up a membership form in the Bookstore. As a member, you’ll know all about the happenings at the bookstore, its sales and events--and you’ll make a big difference to our great community library. Thank you for your support!
Don’t Miss the December Library Book Sale!
Circle Saturday, December 3, on your calendar! The Friends of the Danville Library’s Pop-up Book Sale will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., in the Mt. Diablo Room. You can’t beat the prices at the Friends’ monthly sales with most books priced at $2.00 for hard cover and $1.00 for paperback. Choose from a large selection of children’s books, non-fiction, hard cover and paperback fiction, plus biography/memoir, classics, cookbooks, vintage, mysteries, and more. In addition, there’s always a table of newer fiction (20202022!) priced slightly higher from $3.00 to $5.00. And this month there will be Christmas books on hand for holiday gift giving!
The Friends’ Library Bookstore is open Mondays – Saturdays, 10 a.m.to 5 p.m. The Friends also host a small bookshelf in the library (by the Print Station) where you can also browse and purchase books for readers of all ages.
Looking to donate books? Donations are accepted at the Bookstore every day (except Sundays) with donations limited to four bags per donor per day. You can even drop by the bookstore to fill out a volunteer application if you’d like to be part of the fun!
BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 15 Support Your Local Library
Diamond Window Cleaning
is ready to exceed your expectations
By Kara Navolio
Diamond Window Cleaning is run by two local entrepreneurs, Ron Israel and Chris Fehlman. Ron stared the business 40 years ago from his Concord garage while he was still in high school. Chris joined Ron 10 years ago as a foreman and earlier this year became a co-owner.
Diamond Window Cleaning, which specializes in high end homes in the East Bay, pride themselves on exceeding customer’s needs and providing excellent customer service. Many of their customers are repeat clients, some for over 20 years. Diamond Window Cleaning also sets itself apart by also cleaning screens and window tracks as part of their standard service. They can also provide gutter cleaning, solar panel cleaning, skylights and power washing.
Another way they make their service exceptional is that either Ron or Chris are on-site at every job. “This provides accountability and excellent communication since you’ll be dealing with one of the owners directly,” says Ron.
Chris and Ron both enjoy the interaction with their customers, and
Chris and his family
this is what inspires them: building long term relationships and getting to know them and their families.
When Chris is not at work, he’s spending time with his wife and two young children (2 ½ years and 8 months). He plays softball and also roots for his Bay Area favorite teams: Giants, Niners and Warriors. Ron lives with his longtime partner, Deb, and is a DJ on the weekends, getting the party going at weddings and karaoke spots around the Bay Area.
Ron enjoys being a DJ on the weekends
They are proud of the growth of their business, mostly from happy customers recommending them to their friends and neighbors. They hold themselves to a high standard and offer a personal touch. They appreciate all jobs, big and small and look forward to hearing from our readers for your next party, gathering or just for semiannual maintenance. www.DiamondWindowCleaningCA.com
16 DECEMBER 2022
Business Profile
Blackhawk Women’s Team Reaches USTA National Tennis Championships
By Rob Fuggetta
For amateur players, going to the annual National Championship hosted by the United States Tennis Association (USTA) is the pinnacle of tennis success. It’s the Wimbledon of amateur tennis!
The 55+ 6.0 women of Blackhawk Country Club recently earned that unique achievement. They represented Northern California in the National Championships on Oct. 28-30 in Orlando, Fla. In doing so, our talented ladies became only the fourth Blackhawk team who have made it to the Nationals since 2000.
While they didn’t bring home the crown, the ‘Hawks came close to making to the Final Four in their division. They impressed everyone with their shotmaking, gritty determination, and team spirit –not to mention their fashion style and line-dancing skills. Let’s give a hearty round of applause to these outstanding women:
Blackhawk Women’s team members who played in Nationals. Front row (from left to right): Teresa Cheung, Luz Ernest, Elena Balletti, Toni Wein stein, Debbie Fuggetta. Back row (from left to right): Odette Kardek, Mi chelle Nagle, Leslie Sprinkle, Maurine Hagan, Jill Fissel.
Elena Balletti, captain
Janet Bowen
Teresa Brannon
Teresa Cheung
Luz Ernest
Debbie Fuggetta
Jill Fissel
Maurine Hagan
Joan Leone
Michelle Nagle
Odette Kardek
Kristine Kennedy
Debbie Roof
Michelle Saunders
Leslie Sprinkle
Toni Weinstein
Special thanks to the Blackhawk tennis staff (Bryn Powell, Marco Sanchez, Kyle Reynolds, Stevie Chow, Elena Teague) and kudos to spouses, partners, and families of the team.
We’re very proud of the Blackhawk Women’s Team! They represented Blackhawk and Northern California with class, talent, and style. PS: They’ve already adopted their battle cry for next season: “Nationals 2023!”
BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 17
Tennis
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Message from the Police Advisory Committee
By Lieutenant Jeff Schultz, Chief of Police, Blackhawk Police Services
Information and message
from
your Police Advisory Committee (P2A)
About Special District P-2A What is P2A?
Special District P-2A is the Blackhawk Police District that was created by the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors in 1985 to provide enhanced police service for Blackhawk.
Why was P-2A Created?
The District was created to provide a Blackhawk Police Department dedicated to the Blackhawk communities of Country Club, Silver Maple, Silver Oak, Oak Ridge Village, Hidden Oaks, Tennis Villas, Saddleback, and the Blackhawk Plaza.
How is the District Funded?
The District is funded primarily by a special parcel tax on residences and businesses in Blackhawk. Some funding also comes from a small portion of the ad valorem property tax paid by residences and businesses. The Blackhawk Homeowners Association and the Blackhawk Country Club make voluntary contributions to the District.
How Much Is the Parcel Tax?
The parcel tax is currently $419.06 per year for residences, $2,514.34 for businesses in the Plaza, and $12,573.80 for the theater. The tax increases 3% each year to help offset inflation.
How is the District Staffed?
The staff consists of a Chief and three deputies provided by the Contra Costa County Sheriff. This staffing provides police coverage by a Blackhawk officer approximately 75% of the time.
Who Provides Police Coverage When A Blackhawk Officer is Not on Duty?
When a Blackhawk officer is not on duty, coverage is provided out of the Sheriff’s Valley Station in the Alamo Plaza Shopping Center.
What Services Do Blackhawk Officers Provide?
They provide crime investigation and follow-up, speed enforcement, stop sign enforcement, accident investigation and reporting, vacation house security checks, and emergency response.
18 DECEMBER 2022
Message from Blackhawk Police
How is the P-2A District Governed?
The District is overseen by a Citizens Advisory Committee appointed by the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors upon the recommendation of District 2 Supervisor, Candace Andersen.
How Many People Are on the P-2A Citizens Advisory Committee?
The Committee consists of seven members who are residents of the Blackhawk community. They serve a term of two years and can be reappointed.
Who Are the Current Members of the P-2A Citizens Advisory Committee?
Current Committee officers are Ron Banducci, Chairman; Bill Lipsin, Vice-Chairman; and Linda Kralik, Secretary. Other members are Darsh Butra, Andy Cohan, Bruce Gekko, and Jerry Kidd.
When and Where Does the Committee Meet?
The Committee meets at 6:00pm on the second Tuesday of each month in the Board Room of the Blackhawk Country Club. The meeting is open to the public, who may attend in person or via Zoom. The Zoom link is sent out the week prior to the meeting by your HOA.
BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 19
20 DECEMBER 2022 LIFETIME VALUE OF HOMES TRANSACTED $1.5B+ LIFETIME HOMES TRANSACTED 1,300+ NATIONWIDE WSJ/REAL TRENDS 2022 #80 EXPERIENCE IN REAL ESTATE 38Y+ AGENT IN BLACKHAWK 2013-2021 MLS #1 LIFETIME HOMES TRANSACTED IN BLACKHAWK 400+ Happy Holidays TO EVERYONE IN THE BLACKHAWK COMMUNITY! Joujou Chawla Broker Associate 510.406.4836 chawlarealestate.com joujou.chawla@chawlarealestate.com DRE 00890002 “I can’t think of a better place to call home or a better community in which to celebrate the holiday season!” - Joujou
BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 21 Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses Compass is a licensed real estate broker in California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. ALAMO 195 CHANTICLEER LANE LIST PRICE $7,248,800 New 9 Bed | 8.5 Bath 8,903 Sq Ft | 7.81 Acres 195chanticleerln.com BLACKHAWK 27 SUGAR PINE LANE LIST PRICE $2,198,800 Active 4 Bed | 3 Bath 2,946 Sq Ft | 0.15 Acres 27sugarpineln.com BLACKHAWK 3385 QUAIL WALK LANE LIST PRICE $3,588,800 Coming Soon 5 Bed | 3.5 Bath 4,724 Sq Ft | 0.50 Acres 3385quailwalkln.com BLACKHAWK 4283 SILVER MEADOW COURT LIST PRICE $2,698,800 Active 5 Bed | 4.5 Bath 4,747 Sq Ft | 0.59 Acres 4283silvermeadowct.com BLACKHAWK 3649 DEER TRAIL DRIVE LIST PRICE $2,599,800 Active 5 Bed | 3 Bath 4,022 Sq Ft | 0.16 Acres 3649deertraildr.com DANVILLE 237 STILL CREEK ROAD LIST PRICE $4,998,800 Active 5 Bed | 4 Full + 3 Half Bath 5,829 Sq Ft | 0.48 Acres 237stillcreekrd.com LIVERMORE 2020 VICTORINE ROAD LIST PRICE $14,998,800 Active | Price Change 5 Bed | 5 Full + 2 Half Bath 8,144 Sq Ft | 106.65 Acres 2020victorinerd.com 13 MINUTES FROM BLACKHAWK’S EAST GATE
Mustang Soccer 2022 News
By Melissa Durkee, Mustang Soccer
After many teams expressed an interest in a Breast Cancer Awareness Uniform Kit. SoccerPro, our dedicated partner, graciously and quickly sourced and put together a Breast Cancer Awareness Jersey and pink soccer socks kit. Members were informed and each team had the opportunity to decide if they would like to purchase and participate in using these items and wear during the month of October, to promote awareness of this disease that affects so many in our community. 424 field player jerseys, 36 goalkeeper jerseys, and 465 socks were purchased by 29 teams. Mustang SC will be donated $500 to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.
22 DECEMBER 2022
Local Sports
BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 23 more local sports articles just like this on BVMSports.com Find ShareAND Thank you to the following teams who participated: 1. 2014G Select Panthers 2. 2013B Select Quakes 3. 2010G Select Thunder 4. 2007G Select Thunder 5. 2005G Select Fusion 6. U7G Rec Goal Getters 7. U7G Rec Glitter Kickers 8. U7B Rec Lightning 9. U14B Rec Vikings 10. 2005G ECNL 11. 2006G ECNL 12. 2007G ECNL 13. 2008G ECNL 14. 2009G ECNL 15. 2010G ECNL 16. 2009B ECNL 17. 2006G Elite I 18. 2008G Elite I 19. 2010G Elite 1 20. 2011G Elite I 21. 2011G Pre-ECNL 22. 2012B Pre-ECNL 23. 2012G Elite I 24. 2012G Elite II 25. 2012G Pre-ECNL 26. 2013G Elite I 27. 2014G Elite I 28. 2014G Pre-ECNL 29. 2015B Pre-ECNL
Blackhawk Women’s Golf Association Updates
By Laurie Bruns
This year our Captain, Dawn Shaeffer, chose as her charity for The Captains Cup, “Youth on Course.”
Thanks to stellar participation in the opportunity drawings, silent auction, mulligans and pro shots, we were able to raise $2000 for the organization. The BWGA will have a special brick with our name on it.
Let us offer a special thank you to Dawn for her year as BWGA Captain. Her attention to detail, communication and emphasis on kindness in all things made for a fantastic year.
2022 BWGA Captains Cup November 2nd & 3rd
Captain America Flight
1st – Kathy Giroux, Joan Scott, Kim Davis & Irma Tidwell – 173 points
2nd- Sandra Isbell, Patricia Karleskind, Susan Tarantino & Ann Pollard – 167* 3rd – Sallie Cooke, Dolly Falvey, Kobi Enochian & Paula Hamra – 167* *Scorecard Playoff Overall Low Gross Lisa Winsten – 53 points
Captain Jack Flight
1st – Maggie Purvis, Karo Dean, Rita Kowalski & Susan Schmal - 185 2nd- Nancy Lisiak, Denise Benger, Ruby Caffrey & Margaret Jones - 177 3rd- Dawn Schaeffer, Laura Carlson, Linda Rasmussen & Jayne Hegenbart - 175 Overall Low Gross Laura Carlson - 49
Captain Marvel Flight
1st- Fillo Carathimas, Nancy Levin, Debbie Roof & Ronda Sroka - 184 2nd- Cheryl Hanson, Sandra Ingwers, Linnell McRee & Terru Lawson - 180 3rd- Julia Leng, Anna Li, Elaine Qi & Myong Jarvis - 178 Overall Low Gross Ronda Sroka – 30 points
Day 2 Closest to the Pin Hole 16 Rene Hirshberg – 11 feet 5 inches
We are saying a poignant farewell to Lydia and Amy Shell as they move on to their next chapter in Arizona. This intrepid reporter imagines they will be much sought after guests in our future invitationals. Best to you both.
Winners Captain America Flight
BWGA Captain Dawn Shaeffer’s team w/ overall low gross winner Captain Jack Flight Laura Carlson
Fun Costumes
24 DECEMBER 2022
Sports
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Lydia Shell and Dawn Shaeffer a farewell moment
BWGA Captain Dawn Shaeffer
The HOX Swim Team Updates
By Coach Sean Quakenbush
While the temperatures have dropped and there may be frost on the lawn in the morning, most people don’t realize the dedication that some of the HOX swimmers have. Stop by the Blackhawk swimming pool any evening and you will see practice still happening. With the Junior Olympics right around the corner, the pool is still lit at night and full of swimmers. We want to take the time to congratulate the HOX swimmers who will be representing our team at the Junior Olympics in December. We have a total of 9 swimmers attending this event.
Maddie Melvin F 10
Morgan McCay F 10
Tyler McCay M 12
Harlow Heiden F 12
Isabella Valdes F 12
Lucas Tsubota M 12
Graham Hodson M 12
Tatum Akey F 13
Mia McConnell F 14
Please give these swimmers a big hand! It’s a great achievement and we are so proud of them. GO HOX!
Our HOX Board members are working hard behind the scenes to prepare for the next summer season. Lots of prepping goes into rolling out a swim season. The team must coordinate with many other teams what our summer schedule will look like. It’s not easy getting all those teams in the area onto a short schedule. Believe it or not, summer is not that long. Merchandise must be ordered to coordinate with our new theme for next summer as well as planning all those HOX family fun events. If swim is something you are thinking about, please reach out to Coach Sean: seanq@ blackhawkcc.org
BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 25
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Check out the Blackhawk Niners
By Kelly Brandmeier
Charm winners of 2022 competed on the back nine of the Falls course on November 10. The playoff round will be a final factor in determining this year’s Charm Day Champion. The 2022 winner will be announced on December 8 at the holiday awards luncheon. Other categories of merit, performance and humorous distinction will be recognized at this much anticipated holiday event. It’s a merry good time for Niners’ golf friends and pros. Hope to see you there!
Contenders for 2022 Charm Day Champion
January-Sandy Davis
February -Leigh Bultman March- Chris Zimmerman April-Cheryl Hanson May-Vicki Robinson June-Linda McColgan July-Shelley Foster August-Debbie Roof September-Mary Porteous October- Joanne Knapp
AND
Congrats to October *Malcolms* Fun Game Winners: Shelly Foster, Leigh Bultman, Dale Muth & Fran Davis. Not pictured: Pat Burgess
October Fun Game *Malcolm* Niner in the Middle Shotgun start with 3 players on a hole. Net 2nd place score on each team won. Thanks to Linda McColgan for adding another fun spin to play day.
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Wishing you ALL a very Happy Holiday and a wonderful 2023! The trials and challenges from the pandemic along with the current economic challenges have taught us to appreciate our family friends and clients more than ever We thank you for allowing us to serve you and look forward to helping you in the years to come Paul, Pat & Melanie Compa s s a censed ea es a e b oker and ab des by Equa Hous ng Oppo tun ty aws A mate a p e ented he e n s ntended for n orma ona pu poses on y n orma on comp ed f om ources deemed e ab e but sub ect o e ror om ss ons changes n pr ce cond t on sa e o w thd awa w thou no ce Pho o may be v r ua y taged o d g ta y enhanced and may not e ect actua prope ty cond t ons Compas s a rea e tate broke censed by he S a e o Ca forn a and ab des by Eq a Ho ng Oppo t n ty La s L cen e #0 99628 527235 1527365 356742 44376 997075 935359 961027 842987 869607 186677 527205 1079009 1272467 510 301 6317 301 6317 melanie@pburgessteam com melanie@pburgessteam DRE 02141343 DRE 925 858 2536 925 858 2536 paul@pburgessteam com paul@pburgessteam DRE 01944305 DRE 01944305 925 683 3509 925 683 3509 pat@pburgessteam com pat@pburgessteam DRE 01827636 DRE 01827636 I N S I G H T | E X P E R I E N C E | I N T E G R I T Y C h o o s e t h e T e a m Y o u C a n T r u s t C h o o s e t h e T e a m Y o u C a n T r u s t T h e B u r g e s s T e a m T h e B u r g e s s T e a m $455M In successful East Bay real estate sales (MLS) Of Agents ranked locally and nationally by The Wall Street Journal Top 1% T h e B e s t C h o i c e i n B l a c k h a w k R e a l E s t a t e Every
winner!
one of these Charm-ers is a
Local Sports
The Niners Newsletter is proudly sponsored by The Burgess Team
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Niners last charm day of the year was played on October 13. It was a cart path only kind of day, but that did not dampen spirits nor appetites. Most golfers stayed for lunch in the ladies lounge. Golf pro and Director of Golf Operations, Brian Brake tabulated results and announced winners. Captain Etienne Melcher led a general membership meeting after lunch. All present applauded her outstanding leadership in the past year.
October Charm Day Results
1st Flight
1st Place Low Gross - Pat Burgess
2nd Place Low Gross - Leigh Bultman
1st Place Low Net - Linda McColgan
2nd Place Low Net - Linda Marver Low Putts - Linda Marver
2nd Flight
1st Place Low Gross - Chris Zimmerman
2nd Place Low Gross - Cassandra Boyer
1st Place Low Net - Lil Giovanzana
2nd Place Low Net - Frances Davis Low Putts - Francis Davis
October Charm Day Winner Joanne Knapp
October Low Putts Linda McColgan, Cheryl Hanson, Linda Maddalon, Helen Tarantino
BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 27
Linda Marver coordinated menu. Captain Etienne Melcher (R) made pumpkin succulent centerpieces for every table.
Niners wore pink to support Breast Cancer Awareness at the October Charm Day.
Kudos to October Charm Winner Joanne Knapp!
Applause to Niners who played a winning round!
Tri-Valley Animal Rescue Giving Them Another Chance
By Sue James, President Axel,
East County Animal Shelter looking for his forever home
A Message From Axel, an East County Animal Shelter Dog
My name is Axel and I have been a resident of the East County Animal Shelter for a month now. I think people pass me by because I love to jump in my kennel - and admittedly I am an energetic boy and - because I want you to know that I am here - I bark to get attention. But look at my happy face. Don’t you want to adopt me?
When my volunteer friends come to take me out, I get very excited, but I sit and wait patiently while they put on my leash. And then when I do get out of my kennel, to burn off some of my energy (after all - I am just a young adult Doberman Pinscher), I just love to romp around the yard and chase tennis balls. But I also love following my friends around the yard and sitting right down beside them. And wow - if they scratch my ears - or better yet - give me a doggy massage, I am such a happy camper. My volunteer friends say that I will make someone a very wonderful and loyal companion, and I am looking for that special person who decides to adopt me. Hoping you will come meet me soon at the East County Animal Shelter, 4595 Gleason Drive, Kennel B-5.
Winnie-
TVAR FOSTER KITTEN PROGRAM
Say hello to Winniea beautifully unique calico kitten with a “milk” mustache. Winnie is a shy kitten in the TVAR program that has grown to be very affectionate with her favorite people. She is also great with other kittens and cats. She was only four weeks old and very sick when she was taken into a TVAR foster family and was nursed back to health with her litter of four kittens. Winnie is spayed, current on her vaccinations, flea medication, and deworming, microchipped, tested negative for FIV and FELV, and is ready for her fur-ever home!
TVAR’s kitten and bottle baby programs rescue kittens - some only days old - who are unable to be adopted from the shelter and place them in foster homes where they receive medical care, love, and a home setting until they are healthy, able to be spayed or neutered and ready for their forever homes
Tri-Valley Animal Rescue (TVAR) -
Giving them Another Chance
TVAR is a locally based and volunteer run 501(c)3 animal rescue organization. We assist in saving over 1,000 animals yearly in the Tri-Valley and surrounding areas. We are celebrating 30 years of saving lives with over 250 local volunteers. At TVAR, we rely solely on Public Support to fund our life saving programs.
All TVAR’s foster animals go directly from the local Animal Shelter into foster homes where they receive much needed love and socialization and where they are kept until adopted.
We also have an invaluable Shelter Program where our volunteers spend countless hours every day at the local shelter working with the Dogs, Puppies, Cats and Kittens and the Public.
28 DECEMBER 2022 Pet Corner
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Christmas Events for Kids
By Megan Scott
Blackhawk Country Club has so many festive activities lined up for the kids this month.
Kid’s Activities:
Children’s Holiday Party
Sun., Dec. 4th
@Lakeside Ballroom
Crafts for kids, Santa and much more! Time: 10 am Please reserve on the Blackhawk Website.
Family Night Holiday Party
Thurs, Dec. 15th
@Falls Club Bring the whole family for this holiday themed party.
30 DECEMBER 2022
Kid’s Corner
The Gold Course at Tiburon
By Chuck Fox, Owner, Quintessential Golf, Resident since 2012
Tiburon Golf Club in Naples, Florida delivers a stunning golf experience. Magnificent landscaping, meticulous manicuring, shimmering lakes, tall pines with Spanish moss and stacked sod-wall bunkers combine to beautify two impressive course layouts by Hall of Fame golfer Greg Norman.
The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort Naples is one of the finest golf resorts in Florida. The Italianate architecture of the main lodge with the Mediterranean villas and homes surrounding the course contrast with the lush green landscaping to create a unique tranquil feeling.
Tiburon Golf Club Courses
These are two of the most magnificent golf courses in all of Florida. With short rough, flat terrain and large undulating greens, normally one wouldn’t expect such superlatives. But Norman created a challenge by incorporating water hazards, adding difficult stacked sod-wall bunkers, and converting critical areas of rough into coquina shell waste bunkers.
Course conditioning is spectacular rivaling the finest private clubs. Stacked turf bunkers provide a memorable and challenging signature characteristic. The meticulous turf manicuring extends into the natural tidy areas while still providing shot challenges. Black has more trees and is tighter with a higher slope rating but is shorter. The Gold Course has wider fairways with larger greens and is longer but easier.
The Gold Course
The course meanders through pine and palm trees and wetlands. Beautiful native landscaping integrates well with the lush green fairways and the fluffy white sand. The greens are large, and the bunkering is numerous, sprawling, and severe. But fairways are wide, flat, and sometimes rolling. Water comes into play on thirteen holes prompting constant risk/reward decisions, such as the opening Par5 Hole #1. We faced an unnerving shot over the water to get home in two. Par 3s require solid shot-making to keep out of the trouble. Carries over water, marshland, coquina waste bunkers and short-sided pins are regular features. A variety of features made this an exceptional experience. Scenic drives over wooden bridges through marshland and over water, green-side bunker complexes with cool-looking steep
dark sod-faced walls, massive waste bunkers comprising local crushed coquina shells, tall pine and palm tree groups intermixed, countless bunch grass bushes and well-positioned water features - in perfect condition.
The magnificent Tiburon Golf Club Clubhouse and the adjacent RitzCarlton hotel provide spectacular views from the 9th and 18th holes. They even have a photo-op sign on the 18th tee. I can see spectacular homes and Mediterranean villa complexes. In December, Norman hosts the annual Shootout with twelve two-man PGA tour teams in a mixed format. The LPGA Tour Championship plays here in November. The course is expensive, but we’ve paid more for a lot less. Each starting time includes a caddie (not including a $25+ tip per player).
Norman deftly integrates unique features into a robust shot-makers layout. Tiburon Golf Club invests in top magnificent landscaping and maintains superb conditioning. The result is memorable, scenic, and challenging. The Black course is tighter but shorter. Play both.
If You Go:
Course Info - Tiburon Golf Club is a semi-private golf club with two golf courses comprising the Gold Course, and the Black Course. Courses are open to the public and players do not have to stay at the Ritz Carlton resort for access. The courses alternate each day between public access and private member access.
Location - Southwest Florida Gulf Coast, about 30 mins south of the Southwest Florida airport (SWI) near Fort Myers, about 2 1/2 hours south of the Tampa airport and 2 hours west of the Miami airport. Google Maps Link
Lodging - The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort Naples is a Mediterraneanstyle luxury hotel and villa complex onsite and surrounded by the two golf courses. Find other high-resolution photos at:
Quintessential Golf (https://www.quintessentialgolf.com)
A source of golf travel inspiration, Quintessential Golf online magazine spotlights the most spectacular, enduring and scenic courses, resorts and golf adventures. Written from a players point-of-view, articles include magnificent high-resolution course images. Brought to you by Chuck Fox, single-digit golfer, writer and photographer based in Danville, California, he is fulfilling his passion and dream to play, photograph and share the romance and beauty of golf throughout North America.
BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 31
Water and Bunch Grass
Stacked Sod Bunkers
Mediterranean Clubhouse
Golf Destinations
AlfistiThe Passion that Combines Alfa + Romeo
By David Tom, Resident Since 1990
If Alfista is an enthusiast of the Alfa Romeo car series then the plural, or Alfisti, were in their element on June 4, 2022, when the Alfa Romeo Association (ARA) returned to the Blackhawk Museum. It is no surprise that Alfa Romeo conjures such devotion as its lineage dates back over a century. Alfa was founded in 1910 and began motor racing in 1911. Under the direction of Nicola Romeo, the company became Alfa Romeo and began its historic racing success in the Mille Miglia, Le Mans and Formula One. While always an Italian legend, Alfa Romeo exposure has been spotty in the U.S. There are currently two models available to American buyers, the Giulia and Stelvio. The ARA is based in the San Francisco Bay Area and actively serves its members with social events, driving tours and tech sessions. If you count yourself as an Alfista, then you will be in good company in the ARA.
32 DECEMBER 2022 Cars and Coffee
David
Tom: I have lived in Danville for 30 years. I retired from the corporate tax world and now pursue a variety of projects that interest me. I have always loved cars and look forward to sharing them with you.
December Craft:
A Simple Way to Display Your Holiday Cards
By Michelle Barry, Resident since 2018
Most of the Holiday cards we receive are photo postcards. I like to display the cards I receive over the holidays to bring more holiday spirit to a room. The cards are full of smiles and photos of good memories people have had during the year. Since they are mostly postcard style, they don’t stand up on their own. One way to display them is by making a collage out of them.
This is a very simple idea. The only items you need are tape, push pins and some wall space. I think this would be a good project for kids. It really brightens up the space. I have made the collage in the shape of a tree, but you could make it any shape.
I also crocheted some stockings this year. The little one was done in less than two hours. The other three took approximately 4 hours each to complete. There are so many tutorials out there and so many designs to choose from. Here’s the link to an assortment of choices: https://www. countryliving.com/diy-crafts/g28872655/ crochet-christmas-stocking-patterns/ You won’t find the heart one as I created that one on a whim after creating the other three.
Be crafty! Enjoy!!! Happy Holidays!
Michelle Instagram: littlegoslingstudio
Breast Augmentation Virtual Event + Live Q&A
BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 33 Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses
On Dec 6th, Dr. Ronan is hosting an online forum to review and answer questions about various breast procedures, including augmentations, lifts, revisions and fat transfers. Tuesday, December 6th Register Today! 5:30 PM To Schedule a FREE Consultation Call 925.736.5757 Crafts Corner
Oh the Gardens You Might See
By Aly Baker, Bloomers Publicity
One of the major pluses of living in California is that within a few hours we can be in the mountains, the desert, skiing, surfing or drinking wine. We can also visit literally dozens of amazing private and public gardens across the state. Below are just a few you may want to add to your must-see list:
San Francisco Conservatory of Flowers
Built in 1879, The Conservatory of Flowers is a greenhouse and botanical garden that houses a collection of rare and exotic plants in Golden Gate Park. Five rooms feature tropical and native plants from South and Central America as well as many more specular species from near and far.
UC Botanical Gardens at Berkeley
A 34-acre research garden and museum in the Berkley Hills features more than 13,000 plant species including rare and endangered plants.
You can’t help but be impressed as you walk the beautiful and serene trails.
If you are heading south, one of the most unique gardens to visit is Forestiere Underground Gardens. Created in 1906-1946, this amazing 10-acre subterranean world features tunnels, grottos, gardens and fruit trees underneath the city of Fresno. All this, plus fishing ponds and a chapel that were all created by a Baldassare Forestiere.
For more California gardens go to https://roadtrippingcalifornia.com/ botanical-gardens-california/
To learn about how you can be part of Blackhawk Bloomers, contact Rose Gogarty at rosegogarty@gmail.com
34 DECEMBER 2022 In the garden
The Royal Tea Garden in Pleasanton
By Megan Scott, Resident Since 2010
My niece, Pfeiffer, recently turned seven, and I knew the perfect way to celebrate her special day would be a visit to The Royal Tea Garden in Pleasanton.
This English Tea House is a secret gem in the Tri-Valley.
Our afternoon tea party started with selecting our favorite teas to try from a menu with dozens of options. I chose the Nutcracker holiday tea, and Pfeiffer selected a strawberry flavor.
My niece did the “Pretty Princess” tea experience, which included a dream plate
of goodies for her to enjoy. I went with the Royal Dream experience, which came with a three-tiered plate of delicious treats.
The service was fantastic, and you can tell the staff has figured out how to make this experience special for all ages. My niece had her own pot of tea and fancy tea cup, along with a special hot chocolate. Since it was her birthday, they brought out a cupcake with a tiara and sang. She said it was her favorite dining experience ever. If you have a special occasion to honor a loved one, we highly recommend The Royal Tea Garden. https://www.royalteagarden.com/
BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 35
Support our Tassajara Hills Elementary School Foundation: Together We Soar
By Tassajara Hills Elementary Foundation, Nafissa Khoja, Sarah Thompson and Katherine Wenger
We are excited to announce that planning for our 2022-2023 Tassajara Hills Foundation Auction is under way.
When: Saturday, February 11, 2023
Where: Blackhawk Country Club
What will the Auction’s fundraised dollars go towards?
100% of the dollars raised at our Auction will directly fund programs and staff that enhance our children’s educational experience, helping to provide resources for our students that the State of California does not fund. Through the generous donations of our school community, we can continue to offer our awardwinning reading intervention program, six paraeducators to give extra support in every class and reduce teacher/student ratios, additional librarian hours to give more access to students, office staff support, an art instructional assistant and a vocal music instructor for our school! Without this support, we would not be able to offer these staff positions that boost our school’s reputation as a premium education for the Blackhawk community.
How can you help?
We are looking for generous businesses and individuals to donate a product or service to our wonderful school to help us reach our goals! Please contact us at THEFoundationAuction@gmail.com if you are interested.
• Does your family own a restaurant and want to donate a dining gift card?
• Know someone who has a vacation house (Napa, Tahoe, etc.) who would like to donate a night to us?
• Does your neighbor have a wine fridge full of wine they would like to donate?
• Does your cousin own a local boutique and would like to put together a gift package?
• Do you have access to seats for our one of favorite sports teams to offer as an auction item for a lucky family?
• Any extra frequent flyer miles or hotel points you want to donate? Send them our way!!
Be a sponsor:
Please let us know if you would like to sponsor our event. Each sponsorship tier offers great benefits. Learn more about sponsoring here: THE Auction Sponsorship
• Presenting Sponsor (Exclusive) –SOLD OUT
• Table Sponsor (Exclusive) – SOLD OUT
• V.I.P. Sponsor ($1500)
• Platinum Sponsor ($1000)
• Gold Sponsor ($750)
• Silver Sponsor ($500)
Attend our event:
You do not need to be a current Tassajara Hills family to enjoy this night out for a good cause! Early bird tickets are available until December 5th and can be purchased here: THE Auction Tickets.
Every dollar raised goes directly towards Tassajara Hills elementary school, allowing us to continue making educational excellence a reality for our children and in turn enhance our community.
For regular updates and to stay in the know on the exciting details of our event, follow our Auction social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. To contact the Auction committee, please reach out to THEFoundationAuction@ gmail.com.
To learn more, please visit us at: Tassajara Hills Foundation Auction.
Thank you for your support - Together We Soar!
Please Join Us For A HOT HAVANA NIGHTS AUCTION
Tassajara Hills Elementary Foundation
Saturday, February 11, 2023
Six O’Clock in the Evening Blackhawk Country Club For tickets please visit: TASSAJARAFOUNDATION.COM
Tassajara Hills Elementary Foundation Auction
Saturday February 11, 2023 6pm
Blackhawk Country Club
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36 DECEMBER 2022
The Yellow Chilli: A
New Danville Restaurant
By Mike L. McColgan, Resident since 1990
Recently, we went to the new Indian Restaurant, The Yellow Chilli, located in the Rose Garden Shopping Center and former location of Maria Maria. Famous Master Chef Sanjeev Kapoor offers a wide variety of freshly made Indian recipes with all its eccentricity and diversity.
The restaurant has the feel of traveling across India with an elegant bar, great service, high ceilings and lots of space and tables to enjoy this ‘special’ dining experience. It is open for lunch and dinner and there is also ample seating at the elegant bar offering a wide selection of wine and drinks.
We enjoyed a variety of food recommended by Gina, our knowledgeable server and specifically enjoyed the garlic naan bread, tomato basil shorba soup and tandoori lamb chops to name a few.
This restaurant is a ‘great’ addition to our Danville community. We would highly recommend trying this world-famous chef’s perfectly seasoned recipes. We will return soon.
For more information and to make a reservation and to learn more about the history of the chef, go to:
https://www.theyellowchillidanville.com/
Wine, Food, Golf & Fun
Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses
photo by MJ McColgan
TheAreHolidays Here –
And Even Last Minute
There’s No Need to Fear!
By Steve Padis, Padis Jewelry and The Forevermark Boutique at Broadway Plaza
Padis Jewelry’s extensive selection ensures you’ll find something special, regardless of when you shop!
Everywhere we turn, we’ve been told “better shop early.” Our extensive inventory of responsibly sourced natural diamonds, laboratory grown diamonds and focus on American-made brands such as Tacori and Verragio keep us unaffected by supply chain issues. Whether you’re shopping a month in advance, or a few days before the big holiday – we’ve got tons of options and selection for you to choose from.
‘Tis the season to sparkle—and spread joy, and as the holidays approach, we take a moment to appreciate the people in our lives who make it all happen. This year, more so than ever, it is the time to celebrate those who matter most. Fortunately, our team at Padis Jewelry is here to help you uncover the perfect Christmas gifts to show your loved ones just how much they mean to you. For some great ideas and suggestions, take a look at our 2022 Holiday Gift Guide!
Christmas Gifts for Men: Luxury Watches
Whether you’re stumped on what to get your husband this year or determined to upstage your siblings at the family gift exchange, Padis Jewelry has the perfect gift for a man in your life. Consider our selection of luxury watches for anyone on your holiday shopping list. We will help you find the perfect timepiece for any wrist, from recipients who need a watch for every day to that extra special piece that will be treasured and passed down for generations.
As one of the premier Breitling Authorized retailers in the Bay Area, we’re happy to help newbies navigate the Breitling world— and trust us, you’ll wonder what took you so long. From aviation watches to dapper and tuxedo-worthy styles, Breitling timepieces are a perfect present.
Christmas Gifts for Women: Personalized and Stackable Fine Jewelry
Ultimately, jewelry is super personal — from the pieces that draw us in, the pieces we select for the people we love, and the pieces we choose to wear each day. At Padis, we heartily believe the value of the jewelry you wear goes beyond the price-tag. Pieces by our designers such as Forevermark, Roberto Coin, or our Padis signature collections make a statement about who you are, commemorate milestones, or help express your love to those in your life.
Holiday Engagement Rings
Let’s face it—it is the most wonderful time of the year, which makes it a popular time to pop a certain question. Dates include Christmas
Day (which topped the list as the most popular date, even above Valentine’s!), Christmas Eve, New Year’s Day, New Year’s Eve, December 23, and two Saturdays before Christmas Eve.
There’s no better way to express that love than with an engagement ring that not only celebrates the commitment you’re making but also encapsulates all the things about the one you love as nothing else can. Set up a time to visit Padis and learn about our worldclass selection of loose natural and lab grown diamonds and our amazing designers, and our custom jewelry design services. We work with you to make the ring of your dreams a reality!
Happy to Be Nearby to Conveniently Serve You!
Padis Jewelry Walnut Creek is located in Broadway Plaza, right in between Brighton and Free People near the fountain. Padis brings the same exceptional selection, value, and customer service to Walnut Creek that they have offered to their jewelry clients in the San Francisco Bay Area and the Napa Valley for many years.
So there you have it; the definitive holiday gift guide for the people who matter most! Be sure to stop by Padis Jewelry this holiday season to find the best Christmas gifts for the ones you love most. We’re here to help by making holiday shopping easy! Our team at Padis is here and ready to help with all of your holiday shopping needs both in our stores and on our website at padisjewelry.com.
The Padis team is thrilled to be a part of the East Bay community and looks forward to seeing you soon. From our family to yours, we wish you a very happy holiday season!
38 DECEMBER 2022
Expert Contributor
BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 39
0482