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,
It’s that time of year when we celebrate and honor the mothers! Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 11th. Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there!
May also brings Memorial Day, which, in my book, is the gateway to summer. It’s time to pack up the winter clothes and bring out the sandals. Whether you are heading out of town or spending the holiday grilling in your backyard, we hope you have a safe and relaxing holiday weekend.
Blackhawk Living is your neighborhood magazine, and in this issue you’ll meet your neighbors, the Lucken Family, A Story of Hard Work, Heart, and Community in Danville.
Plus Blackhawk Chef Parisa Z. Ambwani shares one of her favorite recipes.
Megan Scott
Resident since 2010
We are devoted to sharing stories, events and news among our neighbors in this wonderful community. If you have a story, event or news to share please email me at mscott@bestversionmedia.com.
Jo Peek
Expert Contributors
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Jo Peek at jpeek@bestversionmedia.com.
Blackhawk Plastic Surgery and MedSpa 925-736-5757 www.blackhawkplasticsurgery.com
Emotional Eating
Kristin Jones Coaching, Inc
Kristin Jones 925-788-8778 kristin@kristinjonescoaching.com www.kristinjonescoaching.com
Financial Advisor
Blackhawk Wealth Advisors
John Gardner, CFP®, CPM® 888-985-(PLAN) jg@blackhawkwealthadvisors.com blackhawkwealthadvisors.com
Heating and Air
Perfect Star Heating, Cooling & Electrical
Chris Donzelli (925) 444-STAR (7827) info@perfectstarhvac.com www.perfectstarhvac.com
Insurance
Roger Fernando State Farm Roger Fernando Agency 925-244-1700 roger@rogerfernando.com
Kan
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.
With 40 years as an investment advisor, John Gardner has gained valuable investment insight, experience, and knowledge. Blackhawk Wealth Advisors has the certifications and qualifications you can trust to successfully guide you with your financial goals. We provide strategic investment solutions to high new worth individuals to help them grow and preserve their wealth.”
With over 30 years of experience, Perfect Star Heating, Cooling and Electrical is proud to be a truly locally owned and operated family business serving Alameda & Contra Costa County. We specialize in Furnace/Heating, Air Conditioning, and Ductless Mini-Split installation, along with repair and maintenance for Central HVAC systems. Our services also include Ductwork, Indoor Air Quality solutions, and now Electrical Repair & Installation, as well as Solar Installation.
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.
Expert Contributors
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Jo Peek at jpeek@bestversionmedia.com.
Jewelry, Diamonds & Timepieces
Steve Padis
Steve Padis Jewelry info@padisjewelry.com www.padisjewelry.com
Steve and Judy Padis own and operate Padis Jewelry, which has four locations in the San Francisco Bay Area. They founded the company in 1974 and are proud to have earned a reputation as one of the finest jewelers in San Francisco, serving generations of clients for their most precious moments in life, from engagement to anniversary to milestone gifts. Padis Jewelry maintains top-tier relationships with the most sought-after designers including Tacori, Forevermark, Verragio, Breitling, Tag Heuer, and Roberto Coin. As members of the American Gem Society, Padis is among the top 5% of jewelers across the country.
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.
Terri Fenelon is thrilled to call Blackhawk home! As a Top-Producing Agent with Keller Williams, Terri is proud to be ranked among the Top 1% of Realtors nationwide. Her team has also earned the distinction of being #1 in the Keller Williams region. A Michigan native, Terri deeply values the confidence her clients place in her and is committed to exceeding their expectations every step of the way. Whether you’re buying or selling, you can count on Terri for professional guidance and a friendly, supportive, white glove experience.
East Bay Accounting was established 5 years ago in Danville, California, and our partners have over 20 years of tax law experience. Continuous education on the newest legislation and pristine customer service is what we pride ourselves on. We provide high quality, uniquely tailored tax saving strategies that every American taxpayer deserves to have access to. We look forward to serving our Blackhawk community.
Buena Vista Tree Service is committed to preserving our urban forests and environment. They recycle 100% of our green waste into a reusable landscaping product. Trex safely and efficiently handles all types of tree emergencies 24 hours a day to eliminate tree risks to people and property and significantly reduce your liability exposure.
Blue Sakana has become the premier destination for Japanese food, offering the highest-quality fish and most original sushi rolls in the area. Our inviting atmosphere and friendly staff have quickly made Blue Sakana a neighborhood favorite. Blue Sakana at Blackhawk offers a full bar with artisanal, Asian-inspired cocktails, an eclectic beer selection and a great wine list. We specialize in sushi and Japanese dishes made with fresh ingredients, all at an accessible and affordable price.
Meet The Lucken Family:
A Story of Hard Work, Heart, and Community in Danville
By Megan Scott, Resident since 2010
Photos courtesy of Lucken family
In the charming cul-de-sac of Birchbark Place lives a family whose story is rooted in resilience, love, and community spirit—the Luckens. Ryan and Kristen Lucken, along with their daughters Madison (11) and Kinsley (7), have called Danville home for the past three years. While they may be newer to the area, they’ve quickly become a cherished part of the Blackhawk community, embracing the lifestyle, building deep friendships, and creating lasting memories.
Kristen and Ryan’s love story begins in their hometown of Everett, Washington. Though they both attended the same high school, they were three years apart and didn’t officially meet until Kristen returned home from college for summer break in 2003. “I knew who Ryan was—he was the cute senior boy with rosy cheeks,” Kristen laughs. After being introduced through mutual friends, it wasn’t long before their first date at Red Robin, where Kristen strategically ordered finger food to avoid a messy moment, while Ryan confidently enjoyed a burger and beer. Eight years of dating later, they were married in 2011 at the stunning Roche Harbor in Washington’s San Juan Islands, celebrating with 80 of their closest friends and family.
After years spent building careers and raising their two girls in Washington, Ryan’s role in the commercial laundry equipment industry led to a new opportunity—and a big move to
California in 2021. The family chose Danville for its top-rated schools and welcoming community, landing in their current home just five days before school started. “What drew us in was seeing sidewalk chalk in the street during an open house— it was a sign that kids played here. That sealed the deal,” Kristen shared.
The move was a whirlwind—cars, cats, and wine drove down with Ryan, while Kristen and the girls flew in days later. But the transition proved to be a blessing. The family found not only a beautiful home with a pool and golf course views, but also a tight-knit neighborhood filled with warmhearted friends. “We’ve become like family with our next-door neighbors, the Keatings—we even vacation together!” says Kristen. Their beloved neighborhood traditions include “Driveway Dogs,” spontaneous hot dog cookouts, and golf cart rides to the 9th hole snack shack.
Ryan is now the VP of Operations for a national commercial laundry company, a role that has taken him on exciting travels—including a Mediterranean cruise with stops in Spain, France, and Italy. Kristen, a former dental hygienist who paused her career due to carpal tunnel, now dedicates herself to family life and volunteering. She’s deeply involved at Tassajara Hills Elementary as a PTA member, room rep, library volunteer, and tennis player, even holding a board position on the BWTA in 2024.
Their daughters are equally busy and passionate. Madison had been doing gymnastics since she was four and up until this past January was training competitively at California Gymnastics Academy in
Livermore. She has now begun trying soccer and cheerleading. She balances her athletic pursuits with school leadership, violin, and previous participation in Girl Scouts and the HOX swim team. Kinsley, a vibrant 7-year-old, has played Mustang soccer for three years, recently tried indoor soccer to boost her confidence, and now enjoys hip hop classes at Next Step Dance in Blackhawk Plaza. She’s also a HOX swim team
alum and an energetic presence in the community.
The family is rounded out by their beloved pets— two cats, Penny and Pixie, who made the long road trip from Washington, and Callie, their Australian Labradoodle who eagerly joins school drop-offs each morning. Each daughter also has a pet fish, making their home lively and full of love.
While they’ve traded the boating adventures of the Pacific Northwest for sunny California days, the Luckens continue to explore the state on day trips and make it a point to take one big family vacation each year. Last April, they visited Maui and Oahu, where Madison picked up the ukulele and Kinsley took hula lessons.
Kristen and Ryan’s journey—from humble beginnings in Everett to building a life filled with love, laughter, and community in Danville—is a powerful reminder that hard work and heart go a long way. “Neither of us has a bachelor’s degree. We’re just two regular people who worked hard and wanted more for our kids,” Kristen shares.
And while they don’t have any formal family traditions or legacies, their annual Ugly Christmas Sweater Party has become a cherished occasion to reflect on the friendships they’ve made here. “We
always take a moment to look around the room and feel grateful for every person there. It really does take a village—and we’ve found ours here.”
Welcome to Blackhawk, Lucken family. We’re so glad you’re here!
Do you know a neighbor who has a story to share? Nominate your neighbor to be featured in one of our upcoming issues! Contact us at mscott@bestversionmedia.com.
Joybound Looking for Love
By Chelsea Blackburn, Joybound
Here are some of our adorable animals looking for love:
CATS:
DOGS:
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: MondaySunday, 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.
Joybound adoption fees:
• $150 for an adult dog
• $375 for a puppy (<6 months)
• $75 for a special-needs dog
• $200 for a special-needs puppy (<6 months)
• $75 for a senior dog (7+ years)
• Adoption fees waived for US military Veterans
• $100 for an adult cat
• $175 for a kitten (<6 months)
• $50 for a special-needs cat
• $100 for a special-needs kitten (<6 months)
• $50 for a senior cat (7+ years)
• Adoption fees waived for US military Veteran
Pedro Archer
Leprechaun Moss
Crickett Plum
A Sampling of Homes Active in
Introducing IV Vitamin Therapy at Plaza Chiropractic & Massage Therapy
By Dr. Max Lippman, Director of Plaza Chiropractic and Massage Therapy
We are thrilled to announce the launch of IV vitamin therapy at Plaza Chiropractic & Massage Therapy this past April! As part of our commitment to providing comprehensive, cutting-edge care, this new service perfectly complements our existing chiropractic, massage, and shockwave therapy treatments.
IV vitamin therapy delivers essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals directly into the bloodstream, ensuring maximum absorption and faster results. Unlike oral supplements, IV therapy bypasses the digestive system, making it highly effective for boosting energy, strengthening immunity, and supporting overall wellness.
This therapy has shown remarkable benefits for individuals dealing with:
• Chronic fatigue and low energy
• Muscle recovery and athletic performance
• Stress and anxiety management
• Dehydration and hangover relief
• Immune system support during cold and flu season At Plaza Chiropractic & Massage Therapy, we are dedicated to helping you feel your best from the inside out. By adding IV vitamin therapy, we
if it hurts,
aim to offer a holistic approach to healing and wellness, giving you more ways to recover, recharge, and thrive.
We can’t wait for you to experience the benefits of this powerful therapy firsthand. Whether you’re seeking enhanced recovery, immune support, or improved vitality, IV therapy can help you achieve your health goals.
Book your IV therapy session in May and join us in embracing this exciting new wellness solution!
$20 off first chiropractic or massage appointment
Exotics Parade Through The Livery
By Celeste Altus, Photos by Celeste Altus
The Barnyard Epicurean Wine Bar in downtown Danville isn’t just serving up sparkling wine and killer bites—it’s turning heads with its high-octane flair for exotic car events! At its most recent cars and coffee gathering, the parking lot looked more like a luxury auto showroom than a restaurant, drawing in a jaw-dropping lineup of Lamborghinis, Ferraris, a rare Pagani, sleek Porsches, roaring Corvettes, McLarens, luxury BMWs and more. Car enthusiasts and curious coffee-drinkers came out in droves, snapping photos and soaking in the sights and sounds of pure horsepower. It’s safe to say this place is shifting into high gear as the go-to spot for food, fun, and flashy rides.
Niner’s News
By Fran Davis
Every golfer wants to play better golf, but for many of us golf is a chance to relax, relieve stress, exercise and connect with friends. The wish to lower one’s personal handicap and improve one’s score is present in even the laid-back recreational golfer.
Come check out the Niners and join in on the fun. If you are new to golf or returning to regular play and looking to golf with a great group of ladies, check us out! Contact our membership chair, Maureen Pereira at Mppnyc@hotmail.com
A warm welcome to our newest member, Shelby Short!
Charm Day Results - April
1st Flight
1st Place Low Gross - Laura Gross
2nd Place Low Gross - Leigh Bultman
1st Place Low Net - Helen Tarantino
2nd Place Low Net - Jean Egan Low Putts - Laura Gross
2nd Flight
1st Place Low Gross - Brenda McNabb
2nd Place Low Gross - Rose Gogarty
1st Place Low Net - Susie Bauernfeind
2nd Place Low Net - Lil Giovanzana Low Putts - Diane Paulik
Congratulations April Charm Day Winner - Fran Davis
April Charm Day Winner
EXTRAORDINARY HOMES,
MAY CALENDAR
May 1 - Lakeside - Angel Cup
May 8 - Lakes Back
May 15 - Fall Front - Charm Day
May 22 - Falls Back
May 29 - Lakes Back - NTC #2
Springtime on the Golf Course
April Charm Day Winners
Introducing BELLA DIABLO VISTA
Blackhawk Swim Team Kicks Off the Season with Coach Georgi and HOX Heroes
By Stacie Mihalik
Asthe summer swim season begins, the Blackhawk Swim Team (HOX) is buzzing with excitement. From seasoned competitors to first-time swimmers, every member of the HOX family is gearing up for another unforgettable summer in the pool. And at the heart of it is Coach Georgi, whose infectious enthusiasm, deep love for the sport, and personal connection to the team make her an inspiration to swimmers of all ages.
Meet Coach Georgi: Guiding The Next Generation of Swimmers
If there’s one thing that sets Blackhawk Swim Team apart, it’s the strong sense of community. And no one embodies that more than Coach Georgi. A lifelong swimmer and former HOX champion herself, Georgi has come full circle—first as a HOX 6 and under swimmer, now as a coach. She knows firsthand the magic of summer swim team, where friendships are built. Two of her childhood friends from the pool were even by her side as bridesmaids in 2023!
Coach Georgi’s journey with the Blackhawk HOX began at just five years old, and she swam with the team until she was 18, while also competing all four years at Monte Vista High School. She made history as the first HOX swimmer to become a County Meet Champion in the 25-yard breaststroke. Her success continued through high school, where she helped her 200 free relay team break the meet record at the North Coast Section Championship during her senior year. To this day, she still holds the HOX team record in the 100 free—a testament to her incredible speed and dedication to the sport.
As a teacher at Tassajara Hills Elementary, Coach Georgi has a natural talent for working with young
swimmers, making her especially skilled at coaching those 10 and under. For the youngest swimmers, Coach Georgi is more than just a coach; she’s a friendly face, a source of encouragement, and the person who helps them feel comfortable in the water.
Her coaching philosophy is all about fostering a love for the sport while pushing swimmers to be their best. Her favorite moments? Watching swimmers hit milestones, whether it’s a first flip turn, a personal best, or simply finishing a tough set with a big smile.“There’s no better feeling than seeing a kid walk onto the pool deck a little nervous and leave feeling accomplished,” she says.
HOX Heroes: A Superpowered Season Begins
Every summer, the Blackhawk Swim Team kicks things off with a big reveal—the theme for the season. This year’s theme, HOX Heroes, had swimmers buzzing with excitement at the kick-off event. With superhero decor and this year’s team suits revealed, families gathered to reconnect, pick up team gear, and embrace the season ahead. Whether swimmers are training hard or cheering on teammates, they’ll be reminded that true strength comes from effort, sportsmanship, and perseverance.
Themed Photo Day: Becoming HOX Heroes
Another much-anticipated tradition is Themed Photo Day, where swimmers strike a pose with superhero props that tie into the summer’s theme. These photos are proudly displayed on the team’s bulletin board, serving as both a motivator for swimmers and a fun introduction to the HOX spirit for visiting teams. It’s just one of the many ways HOX builds a sense of belonging and excitement for the season ahead.
A Season of Superhero Moments Awaits
With the season officially underway, the HOX Heroes are ready to dive into practices, meets, and all the fun that comes with being part of this incredible team. So, whether you’re a first-year swimmer
learning to race or a seasoned competitor chasing personal bests, one thing is for sure—this season is going to be super.
To learn more about swim programs visit www.hoxswim.com or reach out to Coach Sean directly at seanq@blackhawkcc.org.
Canyon Club Brewery: Danville’s Newest Gathering Spot for Great Food, Drinks & Community
By Megan Scott, Images Courtesy of Katie Lewellyn Photography
Welcome to Canyon Club Brewery at the Danville Livery, a brand-new brewpub that’s bringing together delicious craft beer, an elevated menu, and a welcoming community vibe. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast, a foodie, a music lover, or just looking for a casual spot to unwind, Canyon Club is the perfect place to gather with friends and family.
From the moment we walked in, it was clear that this wasn’t just another brewery—it’s cozy, inviting atmosphere makes it easy to kick back, enjoy a cold drink, and spend quality time with loved ones. The best part? It’s truly family-friendly. With plenty of space for kids to enjoy, a dog-friendly patio, and live music adding to the lively ambiance, it’s a spot where everyone can feel at home.
Elevated Brewpub Fare & Local Craft Beer
Canyon Club Brewery takes food just as seriously as beer, offering a thoughtfully crafted menu that goes beyond the typical pub fare. From fresh, seasonal ingredients to bold, satisfying flavors, every dish is designed to complement their housebrewed beers. Speaking of beer, the onsite brewery ensures a rotating selection of craft brews, alongside a curated list of wines, perfect for any palate.
A Place for the Whole Community
Beyond great food and drinks, Canyon Club Brewery is all about bringing people together. Whether you’re stopping by for happy hour, a weekend family outing, or a night of live music, it’s a place where everyone— kids, dogs, and beer lovers alike—can gather and enjoy good times.
Our whole family loved the experience, and we can’t wait to return. If you’re looking for your new favorite hangout in Danville, Canyon Club Brewery is the place to be! Cheers!
Canyon Club Brewery – Now Open at the Danville Livery!
Kevin Hamilton Founder of Canyon Club Brewery with Megan Scott
Food and fun for all ages
W25TH ANNIVERSARY WHEELCHAIR FOUNDATION
By Mike L. McColgan, Resident since 1990
e recently had the honor of attending the 25th Anniversary Gala for the Wheelchair Foundation, an inspiring event aptly named Journey of Hope, at the elegant Blackhawk Museum.
As proud supporters of the Wheelchair Foundation, we celebrate its incredible impact—having distributed 1.2 million wheelchairs worldwide. The gift of mobility is truly life changing.
David and Jeff Behring, sons of founder Ken Behring, shared their father’s heartfelt sentiment:
“When I see the happiness on the faces of those receiving a wheelchair, I feel that this is the best thing I have ever done in my life.”
The evening featured a memorable performance by The Camp Jeff All Stars Band, with Dan Ashley as the charismatic
Master of Ceremonies. Guests also enjoyed a VIP wine reception, a gourmet dinner by Postino, and an exciting live auction, making for an unforgettable celebration.
As we reflect on this milestone, we look forward to the 30th anniversary and beyond, continuing to bring hope and mobility to those in need.
Your Indoor Air Quality Matters
By Chris Donzelli, Owner Perfect Star Heating, Cooling & Electrical
Living in a confined space means that the cleanest home may still be unsanitary. Think about it this way: the average person needs 2 quarts of water a day to survive, but needs 15,000 quarts of air to survive, so you must ask yourself why do people purchase filtered/bottled water, yet they never change their air filter in their home? The emissions from older HVAC systems, improper filtration or system leaks can all lead to breathing in dirt, dust, and bacteria that you cannot even see. If you have allergies this can be a nightmare. At Perfect Star, we offer dynamic products and solutions to keep your air clean and healthy.
Perfect Star can solve your Air Quality woes with a new Indoor Air Quality control system that will eliminate dirt, dust, germs, allergens, and other pollutants making the air you and your family breathe in daily cleaner and healthier. As an authorized dealer, we offer products including Air Scrubbers by ActivePure that utilize the technology that NASA uses on the international space station to keep the air clean!
Another factor in your Air Quality is your ductwork. The backbone of any HVAC system is its ductwork. Over time, ducts
can deteriorate, develop leaks, and become a breeding ground for contaminants. Our duct replacement services ensure that our clients’ homes have a clean and efficient air distribution system. Benefits include of new ductwork include:
• Improved energy efficiency, leading to lower utility bills.
• Enhanced airflow, resulting in more consistent temperatures throughout the home.
• Elimination of dust, allergens, and pollutants that can accumulate in old, damaged ducts
I would love the opportunity to introduce you to one of my Diamond Certified Technicians, so they can walk you through the many benefits of keeping your system running efficiently! Right now, we are offering a 3-for-1 Spring Special for just $59 (Value $536). Call today to find out more about a tune up, safety inspection, and electrical efficiency test for the low price of $59! This special ends on May 31 st , 2025. Perfect Star Heating, Cooling, & Electrical looks forward to helping you improve the Air Quality in your home, and the efficiency of your system –saving you time and money.
The San Ramon Valley Education Foundation
Join us for Summer Imagineering!
By Alicia Gee
The San Ramon Valley Education Foundation (SRVEF) is proud to offer Imagineering, a beyond-school enrichment program primarily for San Ramon Valley Unified School District (SRVUSD) students. The goal of Imagineering is to spark student interest in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) with weeklong classes running June 16 through July 18, 2025, for incoming 2nd grade through high school students. Classes will be held at Gale Ranch Middle School. Proceeds from this program go to support SRVUSDwide initiatives.
We are also excited to continue our Summer Theatre Program with a production of Shrek The Musical JR. This program will be five weeks long starting June 16 and ending on July 25 with an evening performance on July 25.
All Imagineering classes are taught by SRVUSD teachers. Many partner with community and industry experts to extend learning opportunities.
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Oat Bran
Cookie-Muffins with Chia Seeds
By Parisa Z. Ambwani, Resident since 1983
Serves 12. Preheat oven to 350-degree F. Line muffin tins with paper cups
Coarse Crumbs Topping: ¼ cup rolled oats, ¼ cup brown sugar, ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, mix with 1 tablespoon soft butter to make coarse crumbs.
In a small bowl, combine chia seeds and 6 tablespoons almond milk. Refrigerate overnight (the chia seeds need to be soaked, so they can expand and soften).
In a medium bowl combine and sift dry ingredients twice (oat bran, flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt).
In a larger mixing bowl, mix wet ingredients (chia seeds mixture, 1 cup almond milk, olive oil and ½ cup brown sugar).
Gradually stir dry ingredients into wet ingredients until they are just moist and batter forms. Fold in walnuts. Fill muffin tins 1/3 full of batter; drop 1 teaspoon of apricot spread on top of batter and fill to 2/3 full of more batter. Top with coarse crumbs topping. Bake in the oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into center comes out clean. Remove from the oven, cool for 10 minutes in muffin tins, remove, and serve. Enjoy your nutritious cookie muffins.
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.
MEDICAL SERVICES:
Medical dermatology
Skin cancer checks • Painless photodynamic therapy
Hayes B. Gladstone MD, Former Director of Dermatologic Surgery and associate professor of Stanford University for Dermatology, Head and Neck Surgery, Aesthetic Surgery, Lasers and Fillers.
Double Board Certified in Dermatology and Mohs Micrographic surgery, Reconstruction, one of the pioneers of the facelift under local anesthesia, 25+ years of experience
Daniel Wall MD, Board Certified in Dermatology, 20+ years of experience, Dermatologist for SF Giants. Specializing in medical and cosmetic dermatology, skin cancer.
Jackie Ballin, PA-C
Experienced & Compassionate care in medical and cosmetic dermatology
Moments in Bloom: A Tulip Tour Through Spring
By Sonia Lamba, Resident since 2015 | Images by Sonia Lamba
Spring in the Bay Area brings a vibrant celebration of color, and few flowers mark the season as gracefully as tulips. This year, the tulip trail led me from the charming Queen Wilhelmina Garden in Golden Gate Park—where windmills and waves meet bold blooms—to the lively heart of San Francisco at Union Square’s Tulip Day, where thousands of tulips spilled across the plaza like a painter’s palette come to life. The scenes were joyful and fleeting, with visitors picking flowers by the armful and children weaving through petals, reminding us how quickly beauty can bloom and vanish.
Further south at Filoli, tulips bloom in formal elegance, framed by historic estate gardens and the rolling hills of Woodside. Each variety there feels thoughtfully placed, the colors echoing the early morning light or softening under the golden hour haze. Tulips at Filoli don’t just announce spring—they hold it gently, quietly. From city streets to curated garden paths, this season’s tulips whispered different stories of place and time. Back home in Blackhawk, where fresh blooms brighten our own front yards and trails, these spring scenes feel closer than ever—a reminder that beauty, wherever we find it, always finds its way back to us.
Sonia Lamba Photographer and videographer capturing the quiet beauty of nature, travel, and everyday life. After a career in finance, I’ve embraced a long-held creative passion—turning moments into visual stories through both images and motion.
Based in scenic Blackhawk, California, I find inspiration both close to home and wherever my travels take me.
I’ve been writing for the magazine since 2017, sharing stories through words and imagery—from Blackhawk to far beyond. I hope you enjoy them, and I always welcome your thoughts or ideas.
Follow more on IG @sonialambaphotography
We’re Here to Help You Find the Perfect Gift for Mom
By Steve Padis, Padis Jewelry
Mother’s Day is a time to honor the incredible women who shape our families with love, strength, and devotion. My wife, Judy, is the heart of our family—her kindness, intelligence, and unwavering support inspire me every day, and I am forever grateful to share my life journey with her. After 42 years of marriage, 4 children and now 8 grandchildren, I continue to count my blessings as our family grows and I watch my own daughters become mothers.
Every year at our stores, Mother’s Day - this year on May 11thbrings us special opportunities to be part of celebrating important women in your lives. Making recommendations that’ll make her smile? That’s our happy place.
This year, show your appreciation with a meaningful piece of jewelry from Padis Jewelry—something she will cherish forever. Our guide will help you select the perfect gift based on her style and personality.
Stackable Bands
Stackable rings are the perfect Mother’s Day gift because they beautifully symbolize the layers of love, memories, and milestones that define motherhood. Each ring can represent a child, a cherished moment, or a personal achievement, allowing moms to build a collection that tells their unique story. Their versatility makes them effortless to wear alone for a delicate look or stacked together for a bold, dazzling statement. With timeless elegance and endless customization options—whether in different metals, diamond shapes, or engravings—stackable rings offer a meaningful, stylish, and sentimental way to celebrate the incredible mothers in our lives.
Whether adorned with birthstones representing each child or featuring a delicate pendant with a significant symbol, personalized necklaces offer a unique and thoughtful way to celebrate the incomparable bond between a mother and her children. With each glance at this personalized piece, she’ll be reminded of the unconditional love and appreciation that fills her life, making it a gift a truly unforgettable gift.
Diamond Stud Earrings
Initial and Nameplate Jewelry
This Mother’s Day, express your heartfelt appreciation with a personalized necklace, a timeless token of affection that she’ll treasure forever. Show mom you love her with a message written in gold and diamonds! We love custom, personalized necklaces because they quickly become a staple in any woman’s jewelry collection AND they’re meaningful! We have a number of options to select from. Depending on how many names, birthstones, initials, or messages you want to engrave, choose either a nameplate or diamond initial necklace.
Consider the timeless elegance of diamond earrings, whether lab-grown or natural. You can’t go wrong with the timeless, essential gift of diamond studs available in all metal colors! Lab-grown diamonds are crafted with technology to mirror the brilliance of their natural counterparts. These diamonds, grown under controlled conditions, boast the same quality and beauty as those formed deep within the earth. Alternatively, natural diamond earrings carry a unique allure, showcasing the marvels of nature’s craftsmanship over millennia. Both options radiate sophistication and love, making them perfect gifts to celebrate and cherish the remarkable mothers in our lives. We recommend it to every spouse who asks us what they should get for their partner if they don’t have them already. Even if she already has a pair from us, Padis offers a Lifetime Trade Up so that they can grow with her and with your love as the years go by!
Thanks for reading our Mother’s Day gift guide from Padis Jewelry!
This list is our inspiration for your gift-giving but by no means features all the amazing options of necklaces, earrings, rings, bracelets, and more we have in-store and online. Please note our online inventory doesn’t feature everything we carry so there are tons more gifts to discover in-store.
Come and visit us at our Walnut Creek, San Francisco or Napa locations! We would love to meet you and talk about the special women in your life so we can pair each of them with a great gift that makes them feel celebrated this Mother’s Day. Make sure to ask about special pricing, flexible payment plans as well as interest-free financing.
From our family to yours, we wish your family a very happy Mother’s Day celebration!
