Mailed Directly to Blackhawk Residents and Published Online
SEPTEMBER 2026
Meet the Cayabyabs: Image courtesy of Kim Lind
The Family That Was Always Meant to Find Blackhawk
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BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 3
05 Letter to Residents 06 Expert Contributors List Meet the Cayabyabs:
08 The Family That Was Always Meant to Find Blackhawk Resident Feature
– Looking for Love 10 Joybound Pet Corner 11 Real Estate Stats
News 12 Niner’s Local Sports Benefit Plans: A Powerful (and Overlooked) 13 Defined Retirement Tool Expert Contributor
Evolution of the Facelift 16 The Expert Contributor Women’s Golf Association (BWGA) 17 Blackhawk Local Sports
02188195
Golf Course: 18 Leatherstocking Another Reason to Visit Cooperstown Golf
from Blackhawk Police Chief 20 Message Community News Swimmers Who Stay 21 The Local Sports 43rd SRVEF Run for Education 22 The Education News Opening: Beaulieu Vineyard Hospitality Center 23 Grand Wine, Food, Golf & Fun Summer Drinks: 24 Refreshing Luscious Lemonade and Apple Banana Smoothie In the Kitchen
Harmony: The Blackhawk Chorus Kicks Off 25 Finding a Season of “Believe” Community Corner
the Season: Fall Jewelry Trends 26 Embrace to Elevate Your Autumn Look Expert Contributor
SERVICES: • • • •
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Dear Neighbors, Publication Team Publisher: Jo Peek, Blackhawk Resident since 2014 Content Coordinator: Megan Scott Blackhawk Resident since 2010 Designer: Meagan Cowle Jo Peek
Contributing Photographer: Kim Lind Photography
Advertising Contact: Jo Peek Email: JPeek@bestversionmedia.com
Feedback/Ideas/Submissions: Have feedback, ideas, or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 10th of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas, and photos to: mscott@bestversionmedia.com. Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2026 Best Version Media. All rights reserved. .
This September marks our 139th issue of Blackhawk Living Magazine! We have learned a lot about our community over the past 139 months and have had a blast doing it! We have many more wonderful families to feature and stories to share. On behalf of our publisher, Jo Peek, our photographer, Kim Lind, myself and all of our talented contributors, we want to thank you for letting us share the stories of our community. We want to thank all of our sponsors for making Blackhawk Living Magazine possible. Every September, my neighborhood throws an annual Block Party. It’s where we get to know any new neighbors and catch up with everyone else. This block party tradition has been going on for over 30 years on my street. These kinds of community bonding activities are just another reason I cherish Blackhawk. This month also marks the conclusion of summer and back to a regular routine for many of us. Wishing all our Blackhawk students a great back to school experience and a happy Labor Day! We are devoted to sharing stories, events and news among our neighbors in this wonderful community. If you have a story, event or news to share, please email me at mscott@bestversionmedia.com Warmly,
Megan Scott Resident since 2010 Blackhawk Living Magazine is devoted to sharing stories, events and news among our neighbors in this wonderful community. If you have a story, event or news to share please email me at mscott@bestversionmedia.com.
Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses
BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 5
Expert Contributors
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Jo Peek at jpeek@bestversionmedia.com. Advertising - Website, SEO & Digital Marketing Blackhawk Living CA Jo Peek 925-272-8246 BlackhawkLivingCA@gmail.com www.BlackhawkLivingCA.com
Over the last 10 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.
Auto Sales & Service Kerri Anderson Pleasanton Automall Kerri.Anderson@hendrickauto.com 925-737-5062
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.
Cosmetic Surgery Brett Stompro, M.D., F.A.C.S. The Art of Beauty Plastic Surgery & MediSpa www.plasticsurgery1.com 925-736-0401
Ranked Top 10 in CA and Top 20 in the USA, The Art of Beauty Plastic Surgery & MediSpa has been voted Best Plastic Surgeon in the East Bay and the Best MedSpa in the East Bay year after year, and again in 2025!
Insurance Roger Fernando State Farm Roger Fernando Agency 925-244-1700 roger@rogerfernando.com
Roger Fernando has been a State Farm Agent for 30 years, starting his insurance agency in 1988. Roger and his team are fully licensed. We take pride in giving personal, exceptional service, in talking and listening to our clients about their insurance needs. Our mission has always been to consult with customers as their insurance needs change, protect their insurance for the risks of everyday life and help recover from the unexpected loss.
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.
Pool Service Sebastien Lubrano Atlantis Pools 925-736-0447 info@atlantispoolsdanville.com atlantispoolsdanville.com
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.
Real Estate Terri Fenelon Real Estate Group Terri Fenelon 925-915-5151 Terri@FenelonGroup.com BlackhawkLuxuryHomes.com
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.
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Expert Contributors
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Jo Peek at jpeek@bestversionmedia.com. Tax & Accounting East Bay Accounting Terra A Malcolm 925-421-2202 (office) 925-421-2203 (direct) terra@eastbayacct.com www.eastbayacct.com
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.
Tree Service Trex Donovan Buena Vista Tree Service 925-449-1203 ntdonovan@yahoo.com www.buenavistatree.com
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.
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Resident Feature
“Sometimes, the dreams that linger the longest are simply waiting for the right moment to come home.” In high school, a friend casually mentioned a neighborhood called Blackhawk. “It’s one of those ritzy neighborhoods on the other side of the East Bay,” her friend said. For some reason, the name stayed with her. Years later, offers were made on Blackhawk homes from time to time and just as often rejected. The dream lingered, patient and unwritten. Then in 2023, while their Peninsula home sat mid renovation, they stopped by an open house on Blackhawk Drive. The moment Janice walked in, she felt it. They made an offer, fully expecting another rejection. This time was different. Unexpected, unplanned and perfectly timed — the dream that had been quietly waiting for over two decades had finally found them.
The Heart of the Home
Meet the Cayabyabs:
The Family That Was Always Meant to Find Blackhawk
S
By Megan Scott, Resident since 2010 Photos provided by the Cayabyab Family ome love stories begin with a glance across a crowded room. Chris and Janice Cayabyab’s began with something far more daring — a forbidden high school romance that required strategy, creativity, and a healthy disregard for the rules.
They met at fifteen years old at De Anza High School in Richmond. Janice was a freshman, Chris a sophomore. By sixteen they were officially dating — though technically neither of them were allowed to date at all. With two sets of very strict Filipino parents watching their every move, dates were cleverly disguised as group hangouts, siblings were promoted to full time chaperones, and quality time often meant sitting a few feet apart under supervision. “If you can survive strict parents, sibling chaperones and teenage years together,” Janice laughs, “you can survive anything.” Survive they did. They grew up together in the East Bay, took the next step side by side at Cal State Hayward and were engaged in 2003 and married in 2005. This past summer they celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary renewing their vows in Santorini and Mykonos, surrounded by close friends, a private yacht on the Mediterranean and the kind of golden sunsets that make you believe the world is as beautiful as it looks.
Two Families, One Destiny Chris grew up watching his parents build respected careers as insurance agents in Daly City — Filipino immigrants who brought with them the quiet determination that defines so many families who came to California in search of more opportunity and more room to dream. Janice’s path to Blackhawk began earlier than she realized. Her parents were real estate agents, and weekends often meant being brought along to open houses, unknowingly falling in love with architecture and the feeling of possibility that lives within four walls.
Today the Cayabyab household is a wonderfully full and joyful one. Christopher and Janice are raising four children: Gia, 19; Jaden, 18; Royce, 11; and Cassius, 9. And then there is Tofu — the Bichon Frise who was never supposed to happen. After months of pleading from the kids, Chris brought home a fluffy white Bichon Frise in 2021 and just like that, Tofu became an official family member — complete with his own Christmas ornament, a slice of pizza, a nod to the infamous moment he helped himself to an entire box left on the table. Faith is the foundation of everything in the Cayabyab home. Sundays at The Rock Church are non-negotiable, they begin and end every day with prayer and regularly open their home for Bible studies and fellowship.
A Village Raising Champions All three boys swim on the HOX team during the summer, and Jaden scooters himself to swim practice each day, independently and proudly. Royce and Cassius are active in baseball with San Ramon Valley Little League and Mustang soccer, and Royce has earned a spot on the TVLL All Star baseball team every summer, riding the float in the Fourth of July parade in downtown Danville with his teammates. Gia, the eldest and only girl, plays golf and badminton and is now studying pharmacy in Southern California following a path that feels very much like a calling. Last year she celebrated her 18th birthday with a traditional Filipina debut at the Blackhawk Country Club. “It was a night filled with joy, gratitude and pride,” Janice says. “One that honored her roots while celebrating the woman she is becoming.”
The Miracle in the Middle of Everything No telling of the Cayabyab story would be complete without Royce’s story. In 2020, when Royce was just five years old, he fell from the backyard treehouse and hit his head. A CT scan revealed something no
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one expected — a cavernous malformation in his brain, an incidental finding that likely would have gone completely undetected had the accident never happened. Royce underwent brain surgery and made a full recovery. Today he is healthy, thriving and full of life. That experience changed Janice profoundly. From that moment on she made it her mission to nourish her family with intention — preparing every meal from scratch three times a day and making whole foods, fresh vegetables and quality proteins non-negotiable. “It is a commitment rooted in love and gratitude,” she says. “Caring for our children’s bodies is one of the greatest ways we can steward the gift of their lives.”
At Home in Blackhawk Since moving to Blackhawk in March 2023 the Cayabyabs have found exactly what they were hoping for — a slower rhythm, a stronger sense of community and a home where laughter echoes a little louder. Family night at The Falls on the first Thursday of every month is a current favorite ritual where they almost always run into familiar faces, and the boys have built close neighborhood friendships biking,
riding go karts and shooting hoops together in the kind of tight knit environment that feels increasingly rare. “From the very beginning it has felt warm, welcoming and deeply connected,” Janice says. “There is a genuine sense of belonging that we did not realize we were missing.”
The Traditions That Bind Them Every Christmas morning, before a single gift is opened, the family gathers to read Luke Chapter 2 together, then the excitement builds into a scavenger hunt that has been running since Gia and Jaden were three and four years old. A special trip to Pier 39 each holiday season means every family member selects one ornament representing their year — a baseball glove for Royce, a police officer for Cassius, a graduation cap for Jaden, a cup of noodles for Gia, a golf cart for Chris, a piece of luggage for Janice and a slice of pizza for Tofu. Travel is woven just as deeply into the fabric of this family, with summer adventures to Jordan, Egypt, Istanbul and Lake Como, and every winter Chris and Janice slip away just the two of them to the Christmas markets of small town Europe to
slow down, reconnect and prepare their hearts for the new year ahead. When asked about dreams for the future, Janice grows still for a moment. “Our greatest hopes right now are centered around our children. As long as they are healthy and flourishing, our hearts are full.” And someday, when the children are grown, they dream of a slower life in the countryside of Florence, Italy — while keeping their Blackhawk home as a place to always return to, where the ornaments hang on the tree, the scavenger hunt clues are hidden and the memories are still being written. For now though, they are right where they are meant to be. And Blackhawk is lucky to have them.
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.
Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses
BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 9
Pet Adoption Corner Here are some currently available cuties! CATS:
Sir P
Joybound
DOGS:
Tim
Looking for Love By Chelsea Blackburn, Joybound Public Relations Manager
A
Mugsy
dopt 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.
Adoption Hours Mon-Fri: 12 – 7 PM Sat-Sun: 11 AM-6 PM (Early sign-in begins at 9 AM)
Mayo Joybound adoption fees:
Kai
$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
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Business Hours Mon-Sun: 9 AM – 5 PM Visit https://joybound.org/ for more information.
• • • • • •
Buttercup
Real Estate Real Estate is proudly sponsored by Mike Kehrig, Kehrig Real Estate Team
Address A Sampling of Homes Active in your Neighborhood Eagle Valley Way S Eagle Nest Ln Live Oak Ct. Redwood Dr Live Oak Drive Buttonwood Dr Live Oak Ct Quail Walk Ln Quail Run Drive Live Oak Dr Blue Spruce Dr Deer Meadow Dr Deer Trail Ln Quail Run Ln Deer Meadow Dr Bent Oak Ct Blackhawk Meadow Pl Pepperwood Ct Blackhawk Drive Red Cypress Ct Pepperwood Ct Eagle Ridge Ln
Sale Price
Beds
Baths
$1,249,000.00 $1,549,000.00 $1,580,000.00 $1,999,800.00 $2,000,000.00 $2,198,800.00 $2,298,000.00 $2,299,900.00 $2,398,000.00 $2,499,999.00 $2,598,000.00 $2,750,000.00 $2,898,000.00 $3,076,000.00 $3,245,000.00 $3,450,000.00 $3,598,800.00 $3,798,800.00 $4,288,000.00 $4,295,000.00 $4,500,000.00 $5,750,000.00
3 3 2 3 3 4 3 4 3 4 4 4 4 5 5 4 4 5 5 4 5 5
2 2 2 3 3 3 2 3 2 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 4 5 3 4 5
Baths Partial 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 2
Sq. Ft. 2236 1976 2070 2811 2751 2702 2666 2608 2821 3133 3478 3387 3418 4084 4600 4541 4474 5366 5732 5822 5947 5387
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.
Your Neighbor and Fellow Blackhawk Country Club Member
Joe Kehrig
C: 925.487.6838
Mike Kehrig
C: 925.548.4132
Joe@KehrigTeam.com
Mike@KehrigTeam.com
License #00679296
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www.KehrigTeam.com BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 11
Local Sports
Niner’s News By Fran Davis
LEFT: Niners at Moraga CC BELOW Niners at Round Hill CC
O
ur Niners have been enjoying the opportunity to play some of the wonderful courses in our area with recent reciprocal outings to Orinda, Round Hill and Moraga. These play days are a great way to experience different courses, meet fellow golfers from neighboring clubs and represent Blackhawk while making new friends. We appreciate the warm hospitality of our hosts and look forward to many more opportunities. If you are new to golf, returning to the game after some time away, or simply looking for ladies to play with, come join us! We’d love to welcome you and help you meet new golfing friends while having fun on the course. Contact membership chair, Lil Giovanzana at lgiovanzana@gmail.com
Niners at Orinda CC 12
SEPTEMBER 2026
Expert Contributor
Defined Benefit Plans: A Powerful (and Overlooked) Retirement Tool Provided by Terra Malcolm, Partner/Tax Consultant, East Bay Accounting
W
hen business owners think about retirement savings, 401(k) plans usually come to mind first. But for high-earning professionals and business owners looking to save aggressively — and reduce taxable income significantly — defined benefit plans deserve a second look. What Is a Defined Benefit Plan? Unlike a 401(k), where contributions and investment performance determine your eventual balance, a defined benefit plan works in reverse. It guarantees a specific retirement benefit, calculated using a formula based on factors like salary history, age, and years of service. Your accountant and actuary then determine how much must be contributed each year to fund that promised benefit. Why Business Owners Are Paying Attention For owners in their 40s, 50s, or 60s who are behind on retirement savings, defined benefit plans allow contributions far exceeding 401(k) limits — sometimes well over $200,000 annually, depending on age and income. Because these contributions are tax-deductible business expenses, the plans offer a dual benefit: accelerated retirement savings and meaningful tax reduction in high-income years. Who Should Consider One? These plans work best for: •
Business owners with stable, predictable income
•
Professionals nearing retirement who want to catch up quickly
•
Companies with few employees, where funding costs are more predictable
They require more administrative oversight than a 401(k), including annual actuarial calculations and mandatory funding commitments, so they’re not right for every business. The California Angle With California’s high state income tax rates, the tax-deferral benefits of a defined benefit plan can be especially valuable for local business owners and independent professionals. Talk to a Professional Defined benefit plans aren’t one-size-fits-all. At East Bay Accounting, we help California business owners evaluate whether this strategy fits their financial goals, cash flow, and timeline. If you’re looking to maximize retirement savings while minimizing your tax bill, it may be time to explore your options.
Your Trusted
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eastbayacct.com 925-421-2202 3860 Blackhawk Road Suite 190 Danville, CA 94506
EBA provides premier and personalized accounting services to individuals and businesses. Our areas of expertise include individual and business tax preparation and planning, forecasting, bookkeeping, business analysis, entity formation, payroll services, sales tax reporting and other small business services.
Call us today at (925) 421-2202 to schedule a consultation. BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 13
Trusted by Blackhawk homeowners. Proven by decades of results. Whether you’re buying your first home, your forever home, or preparing to sell, the right guidance makes all of the difference. Joujou is here to help you turn every opportunity into an exceptional outcome. Call today to begin your fall market preparation.
ACTIVE | BLACKHAWK
ACTIVE | BLACKHAWK
704 BLUE SPRUCE DRIVE
549 BUTTONWOOD DRIVE
$2,598,000 | 4 Bed • 3 Bath 3,478 SF • 0.16 AC 704bluespruce.com
$2,198,800 | 4 Bed • 3 Bath 2,702 SF • 0.23 AC 549buttonwooddr.com
SOLD | HIDDEN OAKS
SOLD | BLACKHAWK
2705 MOSSY OAK DRIVE
5303 BLACKHAWK DRIVE
$3,000,000 | 5 Bed • 3.5 Bath 3,911 SF • 0.41 AC 2705mossyoakdr.com Represented Seller
$2,740,000 | 4 Bed • 3.5 Bath 4,047 SF • 0.39 AC 5303blackhawkdr.com Represented Seller
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SEPTEMBER 2026
COMING SOON | BLACKHAWK 81 EAGLE RIDGE PLACE $18,898,000 | 7 Bed • 8 Full Bath • 7 Half Bath 26,627 SF • 4.54 AC 81eagleridge.com
COMING SOON | BLACKHAWK
COMING SOON | BLACKHAWK
114 PEPPERWOOD COURT
4211 BLACKHAWK MEADOW PLACE
$3,798,800 | 5 Bed • 4.5 Bath 5,366 SF • 0.50 AC 114pepperwoodct.com
$3,598,800 | 4 Bed • 3.5 Bath 4,474 SF • 0.63 AC 4211blackhawkmeadowpl.com
#1 AG E N T I N B L A C K H AW K 2013-2025 (MLS)
RE A LTO R ® PAR E XCE LLE N CE
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J OUJ O U CH AWL A
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FOUNDING MEMBER OF BLACKHAWK COUNTRY CLUB BROKER ASSOCIATE DRE 00890002 CHAWLAREALESTATE.COM | 510.406.4836 JOUJOU.CHAWLA@CHAWLAREALESTATE.COM
Y E A RS P R AC T I C I N G R E A L E S TAT E I N B L A C K H AW K
*Per individual sales volume. Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 017527235. 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 any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate. License Number 01991628, 01527235, 1527365.
BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 15
Expert Contributor
The Evolution of the Facelift
MY 30 YEAR JOURNEY CHASING THE PERFECT FACELIFT Submitted by Brett Stompro, M.D., F.A.C.S.
S
ince I started Plastic Surgery in Blackhawk in 1994, I’ve always had a passion for Facial Rejuvenation because of the high stakes, complexity and challenge of each person’s anatomy. With a procedure like liposuction, there is room for a little error, but not with the face. Every little wrinkle, muscle and expression needs to be taken into consideration. After performing over 1,000 facelifts throughout my career, direct learning from the world’s leading facelift masters, and relentlessly pursuing better and better results, we are doing our best facelift ever. In the early 2000’s, plastic surgeons started getting together to study the outcomes of their facelifts and compare notes on best practices. This led to tremendous advancements in techniques that produced superior results from traditional facelifts. Only 3% of Plastic Surgeons are using the newest Facelift techniques Originally, facelifts typically pulled on the skin and didn’t focus on the underlying structure. We now know that to achieve a natural looking facelift result, the skin and the underlying muscle and ligaments need to be pulled in slightly different directions. Additionally, there have been massive advancements in the neck rejuvenation area of a facelift which produce much sleeker, smoother and longer lasting results. This journey to perfect the Facelift has led me all over the country, to Dubai in the Middle East, visiting the operating rooms of some of the most renowned Facelift plastic surgeons in the world and having them visit our surgery center here in Blackhawk. Earlier this year I was honored to moderate a panel of those facelift experts on the topic of safety of deep neck surgery for the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
What’s Unique About Dr. Stompro’s Practice? The most important factor of Plastic Surgery is the skill and talent of the surgeon. The artistic vision of the surgery, understanding anatomy and the smallest details are what sets Dr. Stompro apart from the rest. The next most important factor is the team surrounding the surgeon - and we’ve got a good one. Our Office Manager Stacey, Clinical Director Morghan, Surgical Technician Indira, and Admin Linda have all been with us for over 21 years. Can you imagine how many patients they have seen walk through our office? Literally tens of thousands. Anesthesiology is extremely important for any surgical procedure, however, most plastic surgeons do not know who their anesthesiologist will be for that day when they walk into the operating room. At our surgery center, Dr. Stompro and Dr. Cheng have been working with our 3 anesthesiologists every day for over 20 years. The way the doctors, anesthesiologists and surgical technicians know each other is completely unmatched in the industry. Another highly crucial difference that we offer to our patients is Lifetime Care. We are so dedicated to your results that we offer as many follow ups as you need. Many other offices offer one follow up and that’s it. This is important to know before choosing a practice. There is no office that is more dedicated to your satisfaction as a patient than our staff. Our patients inspire us to deliver the highest quality results in the safest environment with the best patient care. We hope to see you in our office soon!
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Local Sports
Blackhawk Women’s Golf Association (BWGA) By Lynn Prakash
J
uly 23 was our BWGA Flight Day Tournament, with several ladies posting some great scores at the Falls Course.
Overall Gross Winner – Nancy Corbin 92 Overall Net Winner – Nancy Lisiak – 66 A Flight Winners Gross – Irma Tidwell 95 Net – Kim Davis 78 Closest to the Pin – Nancy Lisiak 10’ 6-1/2” B Flight Winners Gross – Stephanie Newby & Anne Kuelz – 100 Net – Terri Lawson – 75 C Flight Winners Gross – Kathy Giroux & Denise Mallozzi – 105 Net – Sandra Ingwers – 80 The BWGA Co-Captain, Anne Kuelz and Captain, Nancy Lisiak recently delivered a thank you lunch to the Agronomy team for their dedicated work in making both courses pristine for our Ladies Invitational “Low Scores in the Highlands”. The agronomy team’s outstanding work ethic and commitment is truly noticed and appreciated by our members and guests.
D Flight Winners Gross – Amy Herkenhoff – 100 Net – Julia Leng – 79 Closest to the Pin – Tiffany Crossley – 16’ 2” July 30th Lakeside Playday Results 1st Place – Lily Weng, Terri Lawson, Pam Hightow & Amy Herkenhoff – 122 2nd Place – Hailey Joo, Yasuko Zingg, Denise Mallozzi & Wendy Eschner – 124 3rd Place – Kim Davis, Kobi Enochian, Kathy Giroux & Nancy Levin – 126
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Golf Destinations
Leatherstocking Golf Course:
Another Reason to Visit Cooperstown By Chuck Fox, Owner, Quintessential Golf, Resident since 2012
M
Scenic downhill 13th with Cooperstown in distance
ost of us know Cooperstown, New York as the home of the National Baseball Hall of Fame. But if you’re a golfer and find yourself anywhere near Cooperstown, take your clubs. Leatherstocking Golf Course is worth playing.
The elevation changes also provide some spectacular views.
Leatherstocking is part of The Otesaga Resort Hotel, which sits right on Otesaga Lake in the Village of Cooperstown. The Clark family built the hotel in 1909 and, remarkably, the family still owns it today.
I also really liked the 366-yard par-4 16th. It’s downhill and requires a tee shot over a road, with bunkers left and water right. Then you play your approach over water to a small green with wetlands beyond. All the while, the Otesaga Hotel sits prominently in the background.
The Otesaga is quite a place. It’s a big, old-fashioned resort hotel with more than 400 windows and terrific views of the lake. It has the feel of an earlier era when people spent their summers at grand resorts, and it’s now one of only about 275 hotels recognized by Historic Hotels of America. For golfers, though, one of the best parts of the property is the clubhouse. I’ve seen a lot of golf clubhouses over the years, and this one really caught my attention. White siding, green shutters and a pointed roof give it a classic look that fits the setting perfectly. Outside is a great dining terrace with cream-colored umbrellas, large potted plants and a beautiful bed of red flowers. The fifth tee is right there. You can practically have lunch and critique everyone’s tee shot at the same time.
The par-5 11th tee is the highest point on the course, with a wonderful view across the course and Otesaga Lake toward the hotel.
But the hole you’ll probably remember is the 18th. It’s a 515-yard par 5, sharp dogleg left, with the tee sitting on a narrow piece of land surrounded by water on three sides. You decide how much of Otesaga Lake you want to challenge off the tee. Take on more water and you can shorten the hole enough to think about getting home in two. The small 18th green sits just below the hotel’s outdoor restaurant and firepit. People are eating, having drinks and watching you finish your round. It’s a great setting—although it does add a little pressure to that final approach. After playing Leatherstocking, I understood why it gets so much attention among New York’s public courses. It’s not about length or
The golf course itself is exactly what you would expect from an old course built in this setting. Leatherstocking was designed by Devereux Emmet, one of the better-known architects from golf’s Golden Age. He designed more than 130 courses, and Leatherstocking has plenty of that early 20th-century character. At 6,401 yards from the back tees, it isn’t long by today’s standards. But don’t mistake short for easy. The fairways can be narrow, and many of the greens are small and plateaued. Grassy mounds surround greens and bunkers, and some of those bunkers are considerably deeper than they first appear.
The Otesaga grand backdrop to the 18th.
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SEPTEMBER 2026
18th Tee juts into Otesaga Lake
flashy modern golf course design. It’s an old-fashioned golf course in a beautiful setting, with a terrific clubhouse, wonderful lake views and a finishing hole you won’t forget. If you’re planning a trip to Cooperstown to see the Baseball Hall of Fame, make room for another four or five hours. Bring your clubs. Quintessential Golf (https://www.quintessentialgolf.com)
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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.
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BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 19
Community News | Town of Danville
MESSAGE FROM
BLACKHAWK POLICE CHIEF Provided by Chief Scott Dickerson A Message from Your Chief of Police Put the Phone Down — Your Life and the Lives of Others Depend on It This month I want to talk about something our deputies are seeing far too often on the roads of our community — distracted driving. Distracted driving is any activity that takes your attention away from the road. That includes texting or talking on your phone, eating or drinking, conversations with passengers, adjusting the stereo or using navigation and entertainment systems. Any one of these activities increases your risk of a collision — and the numbers are sobering. At 30 miles per hour, your vehicle is traveling approximately 45 feet per second. The average driver takes about 2.5 seconds to perceive a hazard and react, meaning your vehicle can travel nearly 112 feet before you even begin to brake. That is more than a third of a football field — at just 30 mph. Nationally, distracted driving killed 3,208 people and injured approximately 289,000 more in 2024 alone. Right here in Blackhawk, our deputies have personally witnessed several near collisions in our community caused by distracted drivers. Please protect yourself, your family, your neighbors and everyone sharing the road with you. Put the phone down. It can wait. Stay Connected with Your Police Advisory Committee Police Advisory Committee meetings are available via Zoom for those who wish to attend remotely. The Zoom link accompanies each meeting agenda, which is distributed through your homeowner’s association. You can also find the link on the Contra Costa County website under “committee meetings.”
In an Emergency, Please Call If you are experiencing a crime or suspicious situation happening right now, please call 911 or the Sheriff’s Office non emergency number at 925-646-2441 to ensure a prompt response. Mark Your Calendar September 8th — Police Advisory Board Meeting Blackhawk Country Club, Lakeside Clubhouse | 6:00 p.m. Zoom option available September 16th — Coffee with the Chief 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. | Corner of Blackhawk Dr. and Blackhawk Meadow Dr. As always, it is an honor to serve this community. Stay safe out there. Chief of Police
Terri Fenelon, Blackhawk Resident Realtor
Proud to have served 94 families in 2024 by helping them buy, sell or invest in Real Estate.
Call Terri @ 734-657-7715 Terri@Fenelongroup.com
www.TerriFenelon.com
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SEPTEMBER 2026
Local Sports
THE SWIMMERS WHO STAY Provided by Sean Quackenbush, Aquatics Director & HOX Head Coach
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very August, as another HOX season comes to a close, I reflect on the conversations I have with swimmers and parents. Some are celebrating personal bests. Others are wondering why all that hard work didn’t translate into faster times.
Parents play an important role in this journey. Instead of always asking, “Did you drop time?” try asking:
If you’re in that second group, this is for you. When swimmers are young, improvement often comes quickly. More practice, confidence and strength are rewarded by the stopwatch. Then, somewhere around the teenage years, the sport changes. A swimmer can work harder than ever and improve by only a fraction of a second—or sometimes not at all. That doesn’t mean something is wrong. It means swimming is asking a different question. Not simply, “How hard can you work?” but, “How much are you willing to learn?”
“Who did you encourage?”
As coaches, we see progress the stopwatch doesn’t: a smoother turn, stronger catch, better body position, more confidence on the blocks. We see swimmers encouraging teammates and learning to push through disappointment rather than give up. Those improvements matter. They are often the foundation of the next breakthrough. Young swimmers also develop on different timelines. One teammate grows six inches. Another suddenly gets stronger. Someone else drops time every meet. But there is no “right” timeline. Some early stars leave the sport, while middle-of-the-pack swimmers become captains, finalists, college athletes or lifelong swimmers. Swimming rewards patience. And the swimmers coaches remember most aren’t always the fastest. We remember those who kept showing up. The swimmer who struggled, doubted themselves and came back anyway. The teammate everyone could count on.
“What did you learn today?” “What made you proud?” “Did you have fun racing?” Those conversations remind young athletes that their worth has never been measured by a stopwatch. At HOX, we want swimmers to race faster, and we celebrate personal bests and championships. But swimming offers something even greater. It teaches patience, humility, discipline, courage and resilience—qualities that extend far beyond the pool. So, if progress feels invisible, keep going. Swimming isn’t really a three-month sport. The confidence, friendships, technique and resilience developed during summer aren’t meant to be packed away with the team suit.The swimmers who make the biggest breakthroughs are often simply the ones who keep showing up— through Fall Swim, Spring Clinic or however they stay connected to the water. Eventually, hundreds of ordinary practices add up. The plateau ends. The breakthrough comes. And one day, swimmers may realize their greatest victory wasn’t simply becoming faster. It was becoming stronger. See you on deck. — Coach Sean
BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 21
Education News
The 43rd SRVEF Run for Education By Alicia Gee, SRVEF Project Manager
Sign up for one or more: •
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Sunday, October 11, 2026 Iron Horse Middle School 12601 Alcosta Blvd, San Ramon
Come for The Run and Stay for the Fun: kids’ zone, exhibitor booths, and more! Don’t miss out on a cherished tradition, bringing the community together while funding essential programs across all 35 San Ramon Valley Unified School District (SRVUSD) schools.
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NEW 1.5 Mile - start at the same time and place as the 5K, but enjoy a shorter route - perfect for groups with participants of varying fitness levels 5K walk/run 10K starting at Charlotte Wood Middle School in Danville Mini Run for ages 2-6 years old participants receive our signature Mini Run cape and post-race treats Friendship Run for participants with special needs All participants receive a shirt and medal!
NEW THIS YEAR: School & Group COSTUME CONTEST! Awards will be given for Best School Spirit and Best Community Group. For contest rules, event information, and to register, visit: www.srvef.org/the-run
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SEPTEMBER 2026
Wine, Food, Golf & Fun
Grand Opening: Beaulieu Vineyard Hospitality Center By Mike L. McColgan, Resident since 1990, Photo by MJ McColgan
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ecently, we had the pleasure of attending the grand opening of the beautifully renovated Beaulieu Vineyard Hospitality Center, nestled in the heart of Napa Valley’s renowned Rutherford AVA. Founded in 1900 by Georges and Fernande de Latour, Beaulieu Vineyard has long been one of Napa Valley’s most historic and respected wineries. Legend has it that when Fernande first laid eyes on the estate, she exclaimed, “Quel beau lieu!”—French for “What a beautiful place!” More than 125 years later, the name still perfectly captures the beauty and character of this remarkable property. A defining moment in the winery’s history came in 1938 with the arrival of the legendary André Tchelistcheff, widely regarded as the father of modern California winemaking. His groundbreaking innovations—including aging wines in small French oak barrels, introducing malolactic fermentation, and pioneering cold fermentation techniques—revolutionized California viticulture and established Beaulieu Vineyard as one of the state’s premier wineries. In 2016, Beaulieu Vineyard entered a new chapter when it was acquired by Treasury Wine Estates. More recently, in March 2025, the winery welcomed acclaimed winemaker Nate Weis, formerly of Silver Oak, as Senior Winemaker and General Manager. His appointment signals an exciting future while honoring the winery’s storied past. Following a meticulous two-year restoration, the new Hospitality Center is both elegant and inviting. Highlights include the sophisticated Members’ Lounge, the impressive Georges de Latour Library, and the sun-filled Atrium, where our tasting experience took place.
Our gracious host, Julie, guided us through the afternoon with warmth, enthusiasm, and a deep knowledge of Beaulieu Vineyard’s history and wines. Our visit began with a refreshing glass of the 2025 Sauvignon Blanc as we explored the beautifully restored building, admiring historical photographs and exhibits that celebrate more than a century of winemaking excellence. Accompanied by delicate tea sandwiches and classic deviled eggs, our tasting opened with the 2023 Los Carneros Pinot Noir. Made from 100% Pinot Noir, it displayed a brilliant ruby color with silky tannins, vibrant cherry fruit, and remarkable elegance. Next was the 2022 Napa Valley Reserve Cabernet Franc, an outstanding blend of 85% Cabernet Franc and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. Rich, expressive, and beautifully balanced, it was one of our favorite wines of the afternoon. From the Rutherford AVA, we sampled the 2022 Reserve Ranch No. 2 Cabernet Sauvignon. Crafted from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, it offered inviting aromas of black cherry and blackberry, followed by layers of dark fruit, spice, and refined tannins. The highlight of the tasting was the iconic 2022 Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, composed of 91% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Petit Verdot. Elegant, complex, and impeccably balanced, it demonstrated why this wine has been considered one of Napa Valley’s benchmark Cabernets for generations. To conclude the experience, we enjoyed the delightful 2015 Napa Valley Port, served in elegant teacups as a tribute to Fernande de
Latour—a charming tradition that provided the perfect ending to an unforgettable afternoon. Before leaving, we selected two bottles of the exceptional Cabernet Franc and one bottle of the Port to bring back to Danville and share with our wine friends. The new Beaulieu Vineyard Hospitality Center masterfully combines history, elegance, and world-class hospitality. Whether you’re a longtime admirer of BV or discovering it for the first time, this beautifully restored destination deserves a place on every wine lover’s Napa Valley itinerary. We wholeheartedly recommend adding Beaulieu Vineyard to your bucket list. We believe you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for one of Napa Valley’s true icons. To learn more or make a reservation, visit www.bvwines.com.
BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 23
In the Kitchen
Refreshing Summer Drinks: Luscious Lemonade and Apple Banana Smoothie By Parisa Z. Ambwani, Resident since 1983
This is a cool and light drink that is absolutely refreshing Luscious Lemonade Serves 8 •
4 cups of mineral water
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½ cup raw sugar
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½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice, without seeds
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½ teaspoon organic lemon zest (rind)
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1 teaspoon honey
Garnish: •
A few thin slices of lemon
In a small saucepan, bring water and sugar to boil and simmer for several minutes until sugar is completely dissolved. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest and honey. Continue simmering for 2 more minutes. Let it cool to room temperature. Pour into sterilized covered container and refrigerate for several hours until chilled. Pour into individual glasses and garnish the edge of glass with sliced lemon; it is ready to be served. Enjoy. Smoothie with Apple and Banana Serves 1-2 •
1 red apple, peeled, cored, diced
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1 small banana, peeled, cut into small pieces
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1 cup Greek yogurt, plain
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1 teaspoon almond meal/flour and 1 dash cinnamon
Place all ingredients into blender, blend for a few seconds and serve. 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. 24
SEPTEMBER 2026
Finding Harmony:
The Blackhawk Chorus Kicks Off a Season of “Believe” Submitted by Katherine Helms, Director of External Comms, Blackhawk Chorus
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or over three decades, the Blackhawk Chorus has been a cornerstone of the East Bay’s vibrant arts scene. It all began in 1991, when twelve women gathered in the living room of opera soprano Diane Gilfether for a few weeks of voice lessons. That intimate gathering quickly blossomed into a full-fledged ensemble, welcoming men by its second year and growing into the premier 100-voice community choir we know today. Under Diane’s visionary direction, the chorus built a reputation for polished, diverse performances, presenting beloved holiday concerts each December, and dynamic spring programs featuring everything from jazz and pop to Broadway and gospel. After her retirement in 2021, seasoned choral educator Ken Abrams took the artistic helm, continuing the tradition of excellence while introducing fresh repertoire. This fall, the chorus embarks on its next chapter. Rehearsals for the 2026-27 season officially began on Tuesday, August 25th, as singers came together to prepare for the upcoming winter concert, aptly titled “Believe.” This inspiring holiday program will take the stage on the weekend of December 11th–13th, with a dedicated concert for Blackhawk Country Club members. Ticket information will be available in next month’s issue.
The Blackhawk Chorus is more than just a performance group; it’s a community. As they prepare for “Believe,” the ensemble is actively welcoming new voices, especially tenors and basses, to join their ranks for the season. If you or anyone you know loves to sing and wants to join, contact the chorus at info@ blackhawkchorus.com. It’s a chance to be part of a legacy of harmony and create something beautiful together.
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BLACKHAWK LIVING CA 25
Expert Contributor
EMBRACE THE SEASON: Fall Jewelry Trends to Elevate Your Autumn Look By Steve Padis, Padis Jewelry San Francisco | Napa | Walnut Creek, Family owned and operated for over 50 years
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s the leaves begin to turn and a crisp breeze ushers in the fall season, it’s the perfect time to refresh your jewelry collection and embrace the season’s trends. Fall jewelry is all about rich textures, warm hues, and versatile pieces that complement the changing weather and your cozy wardrobe. Here’s a guide to the must-have jewelry trends for fall 2026 that will help you shine throughout the season.
dimension to your jewelry. Look for pieces with hammered finishes, matte textures, or intricate engravings. These designs provide a more rustic and organic feel, complementing the fall season’s aesthetic. Unique finishes can elevate simple pieces and make them stand out.
Layered Chains and Mixed Metals Fall is synonymous with deep, earthy colors that mirror the changing landscape. Layering continues to be a popular trend, and fall is the perfect time to experiment with mixing different metals. Combining gold, silver, and rose gold can create a dynamic look that’s both modern and classic. Opt for layered chains of varying lengths and textures to add depth and interest to your outfit. This style works well with both casual and formal attire, making it a versatile choice for the season.
Personalized jewelry continues to be popular, allowing you to showcase your individuality. Fall is a great time to invest in custom pieces that reflect your personal style or commemorate special moments. Consider jewelry with initials, birthstones, or meaningful symbols. These personalized items can be cherished for years and make thoughtful gifts for loved ones.
Bold Statement Earrings Statement earrings are making a strong comeback this fall. Think oversized hoops, geometric shapes, and colorful embellishments. These bold accessories can transform a simple outfit into something special. Whether you’re attending a formal event or simply dressing up for a day out, statement earrings are a fantastic way to add a pop of personality to your look. Look for designs that incorporate fall colors or materials like velvet and enamel for a seasonal touch. Textured Metals and Unique Finishes Textured metals are a significant trend for fall, adding a tactile
Personalized and Custom Pieces
Fall is a season rich in color, texture, and style, and your jewelry should reflect that vibrancy. By incorporating these trends into your collection, you can stay stylish and seasonal while embracing the essence of autumn. Whether you’re drawn to the warmth of earthy tones, the charm of vintage designs, or the boldness of statement pieces, there’s something for everyone this fall. So, get ready to layer, sparkle, and shine as you celebrate the beauty of the season with your jewelry choices We treasure the generations of families who allow us to become a part of their most precious moments. Please feel to reach out if we can answer any questions and if we can be of assistance at concierge@padisjewelry.com – we also offer concierge delivery services to our Blackhawk neighbors.
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SEPTEMBER 2026
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