MARI N E X T R A O R D I N A R Y
L I V I N G
APRIL 2006
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78
CONTENTS
Features 78
art A View from Above Marin County as seen from an ultralight 1,500 feet above the ground. photos stephen lefkovits
PH OTO: STEPHEN L EFKOV ITS
84 88 94
life Blogging Marin Local voices connect to the global village. story & photos tim porter
home design A Home of Their Own Marin County architects create their personal spaces. story p.j. bremier
journey Myanmar Days Local couple spend their honeymoon in the land of mystery. story & photos klaus larsen
MARIN APRIL 2006
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66
CONTENTS
Departments
44
24
letters
28
at-a-glance
30
marin album
32
snap
40
fashion
Readers respond to Marin Magazine.
Hot tips day by day in the Bay Area.
Capturing a slice of life in Marin. by tim porter
Out and about, in and around Marin. by mimi towle & michal lev-ram
Spring accessories: Bigger is better. by samantha schoech Life Style Marin’s Kristi Sanford shares ideas on personal style.
44
fyi Performing Arts San Anselmo’s Bonnie Hayes. by scott jones Travel Time to make plans for summer in Hawaii. by m. L. Lathan Art SFMOMA commemorates the 1906 earthquake. by anne crump ray Home Exploring outdoor sculpture options. by mimi towle People Meet the people behind About Records. by tim porter
40
Health Sun sense, sunscreen for healthy skin. by mimi towle Books Design tips for a healthy home. by Samantha Schoech
14
64
wine country
66
play
Life beyond wine and food in Napa and Sonoma. by katherine martin
Communing with the wind: kiteboarding on the bay. by dean latourrette
MARIN APRIL 2006
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alive in the world
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70
CONTENTS
117
Departments 70
looking back
74
go
Marin County in the ’60s. by jim wood
Luxe camping: destinations a tank of gas away. by m.l. lathan
100
galleries
103
calendar
110
flavor
117
microclimate
130
Classic style and cutting-edge contemporary by anne crump ray
A roundup of performing arts, events, galleries, and more
Three family-friendly local restaurants. by erika lenkert
Larkspur—the heart of Marin. by jim wood photos tim porter
dialogue A visit with Anne Lamott. by samantha schoech
Columns The Cover Marin Surfer, by photographer
22
view from mount tam
26
pov
The creators of Marin Magazine welcome you to share their vision.
Stephen Lefkovits. His work can be seen at marinimages.com.
16
Checking in on Marin County’s economy. by jim wood
MARIN APRIL 2006
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Editorial WHe
re anci
editorial director en
t
he
a
li
Nikki Wood ext 105 nwood@marinmagazine.com
n g
m
executive editor
ee
ts
Jim Wood ext 106 jwood@marinmagazine.com
mo
dern tech
associate editors Mimi Towle ext 101 mtowle@marinmagazine.com
no l
Samantha Schoech ext 116 sams@marinmagazine.com
o g
y
editor-at-large Tim Porter tim@timporter.com
editorial assistant
gIN
S
HE
RE
Michal Lev-Ram editorial@marinmagazine.com
copy editor/proofreader
anced Life Be
Cynthia Rubin
editorial contributors
r ou
Bal
P.J. Bremier, Scott Jones, M.L. Lathan, Erika Lenkert, Klaus Larsen, Dean LaTourrette, Stephen Lefkovits, Katherine Martin, Anne Crump Ray
Y
Art art director Trpti Todd ext 112 ttodd@marinmagazine.com
production manager Alex French ext 111 production@marinmagazine.com
contributing photographers Ben Davidson, Tom Gibbons, Sasha Gulish, Peter Leabo, Sheri Montgomery, Tim Porter, Barbara Ries, Abraham Russell
2 16 S tr aw b e r ry Vil l ag e , M i ll Val l e y, C A 94941
w w w. e v o - s p a.c om / ma ri n Ca l l f or R e s e rvat i o n s 415. 3 8 3. 3 2 2 3 M o n day – S atur day 9 a m – 9 pm
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• S u n day 10 a m – 7 pm
Marin Magazine One Harbor Dr, Ste 208 Sausalito, CA 94965 phone: 415.332.4800 fax: 415.332.3048 email: editorial@marinmagazine.com web address: www.marinmagazine.com
MARIN APRIL 2006
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Developer’s conceptual rendering. Estimated date of completion is November 2007.
ORE THAN BRICKS AND MORTAR, there is magic here. The rebirth of a San Francisco icon as The Ritz-Carlton Club® and Residences showcases the combined genius of men who built their legends separately: the architects Burnham & Root, whose skyscrapers shaped a landscape of optimism at the dawn of the 20th Century; and César Ritz, whose hotels were the embodiment of Golden Age opulence. Hidden for decades behind a steel façade, the 1890 Romanesque tower once again commands the corner of Market and Kearney Streets, following a $90 million renovation. The 21st Century is evident in
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Prices subject to change. A fact sheet on facilities, including association assessments is available upon request. The Ritz-Carlton Club and Residences, San Francisco is not owned or developed by The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. R.C. Chronicle Building, L.P., in which an affiliate of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. owns an interest, uses the Ritz-Carlton trademarks under a license from The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. which may be terminated or revoked according to its terms. R-SF-06-028
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Starting Fresh. Starting Spring publisher
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Lisa Shanower 415.332.4800 ext 107 lshanower@marinmagazine.com
Advertising advertising director Courtney Q. Roberts 415.332.4800 ext 108 croberts@marinmagazine.com
account manager Lisa Wolford 415.332.4800 ext 110 lwolford@marinmagazine.com
account executive Genevieve Luckel 415.332.4800 ext 109 gluckel@marinmagazine.com
regional sales offices california media marin associates Lora Dinga 415.898.6400
hawaii media matters Kay Hampton 808.395.0088
midwest/detroit murphy media group Daniel P. Murphy/David Tapia 312.857.1200
advertising art director Alex French ext 111 production@marinmagazine.com
Administration controller Jill Harmston ext 104 jharmston@marinmagazine.com
green apples
20
Volume 2, Issue 4. Marin Magazine is published in Marin County by Marin Magazine LLC. All rights reserved. Copyright©2006. Reproduction of Marin Magazine content is prohibited without the expressed, written consent of Marin Magazine LLC. Unsolicited materials cannot be returned. Marin Magazine reserves the right to refuse to publish any advertisement deemed detrimental to the best interests of the community or that is in questionable taste. Marin Magazine is mailed monthly to homes and businesses in Marin County. Subscription rates are $36 per year. Marin Magazine, One Harbor Drive, Sausalito, CA 94965. Phone 415.332.4800, fax 415.332.3048, email editorial@marinmagazine.com, website www. marinmagazine.com.
MARIN APRIL 2006
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Patrick London Director of Wealth Management Services Bank of Marin
He’ll look after your assets like a good neighbor would look out for you. Meet Patrick London. He’s been a part of the local community his entire life. So what does that mean to you? It means you get more than just a wealth management consultant. You get a neighbor who’ll take time to learn about your financial goals and then help you find unique ways to achieve them. Sound refreshing? For more information, call Patrick at our Wealth Management Services Department at (415) 927-8900. For more information visit www.bankofmarin.com
Not FDIC insured. May lose value. No bank guarantee.
V I E W F R O M M O U N T TA M
THE HILLS ARE GREEN, THE DAYS ARE GETTING LONGER, and spring is definitely in the air. As we celebrate this season in Marin, we are reminded of all the beautiful recreational areas we have in our backyard: Mount Tam, Stinson Beach, Muir Woods, Point Reyes National Seashore, Marin Headlands—just to name a few choice locations. Now is the time to get out and hike the trails and back roads of Marin, pack a picnic, and make a day of it. April is the month daylight savings time goes into effect, which will give us even more time to enjoy the outdoors. With this in mind, we are pleased to share the stunning aerial photography of Stephen Lefkovits in this issue. His images taken from 1,500 feet above the ground are featured in a photo essay on page 78, giving us a bird’s-eye view of Marin. Contributor P.J. Bremier introduces us to three local architects who have created their own personal spaces (page 88), and photojournalist Klaus Larsen shares his travel experience with exquisite photos of exotic Myanmar on page 94. Editor-at-large Tim Porter explores the motivations of Marin County bloggers who write their messages during all hours of the day and night on page 84. Also in this issue we re-experience the earthquake that shook San Francisco to the core a hundred years ago through the current exhibit at SFMOMA (page 48), we meet the talented San Anselmo songwriter and performer Bonnie Hayes on page 44, and dialogue with popuAs always, our wish is for your good reading. Enjoy Marin Magazine as we continue to celebrate this extraordinary place! Lisa Shanower, Publisher Nikki Wood, Editorial Director Jim Wood, Editor-at-Large 22
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PHOTO: BARBARA RIES
lar writer Anne Lamott on page 130.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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10:22:41 AM
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LE TTE R S 1/3 SQUARE Readers respond Jim Wood’s POV (March 2006) was a great commentary about Marin’s day laborers. I understand the Marin Community Foundation
ADVERTISER
has a $1 billion trust fund for nonprofits in Marin County. Possibly, they’d help build the obviously needed “job center.” And maybe Lucasfilm would pitch in. Jeff Stump, via email Regarding Marin County’s day laborers: My view is that since three-fourths of them are illegal immigrants, the INS (Immigration and Naturalization Service) should take them into custody and send them back to Mexico. To do otherwise is to diminish the role of legal citizenship. Ken Nelson, San Rafael
Correction
1/3 SQUARE Shop at your favorite store in Healdsburg, the wine country’s most charming town.
ADVERTISER M Clothing Healdsburg Features: -Vince -Theory -Rozae Nichols -Diane von Furstenberg and so much more!
In the March issue Snap section piece, “Spin Art” on page 38, the people above were incorrectly identified. They are from above left, Michael LeValley, Suzie Buchholz, and below, Sarah McArthur-LeValley.
381 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg • 707.431.8738 • Mon – Sun 10-6
Letters to the editor may be edited for clarity and brevity. Send letters to Marin Magazine, One
8 Tamalpais Drive, Corte Madera • 415.924.8891 Mon – Sat 10-6 • Sun 12-5 • By Appointment
Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965, or email to jwood@marinmagazine.com.
24
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P OV
Tourism, Community, and Marin’s Economy Prince Charles, bikes, books, and shuttles—they all help BY JIM WOOD
taining a vibrant economy.
over the world, and few communities but ours can offer the hiking part.” Possibly no local political leader is as en-
In fact, a recent study conducted for the
thusiastic about eco-tourism as Third District
Marin Board of Supervisors identified certain
Supervisor Charles McGlashan. “I see peo-
local industries as “stars.” One of those was
ple coming to Marin not only for its beauty,”
agri-tourism. “Marin has to attract and retain
he said in a recent interview, “but because
‘stars,’ the drivers of the economy,” Sonoma
we’re a community that’s doing it right.” For
State University economics professor Robert
McGlashan, that means minimizing the need
Eyler, author of the study, told supervisors. One
for cars. “Last summer the new Muir Woods
type of agri-tourism, said Eyler, are people like
Shuttle, operating from three locations near
Prince Charles who come to study Marin’s or-
Highway 101, resulted in nearly 2,000 cars
ganic and sustainable farming community; an-
not making the winding trip to the national
other are the “eco-tourists, those wanting to
monument.”
experience firsthand the results of Marin’s in-
McGlashan wants more—and less: more
novative environmental and land use policies.”
creative transit solutions for tourists and less
bike race—which started in Sausalito and
Bill Petrocelli, co-owner with his wife
dependency on cars. “Even though it’s expen-
snaked through West Marin—was similar to
Elaine of Book Passage in Corte Madera, says
sive,” he said. “I’d like to see the old railroad
November’s visit by Prince Charles and wife
keeping Marin unique and keeping it commu-
tunnels—like Cal Pak and Alto—reopened at
Camilla. Both events drew regional, national,
nity-oriented are also important to Marin’s
least as bike and walking trails. Image how
even international media coverage. Both also
tourism economy, “There have to be reasons
that would improve circulation between com-
presented a positive (and accurate!) picture of
for people to come here,” he said recently.
munities for everyone, while reducing depen-
Marin’s scenic beauty, dynamic weather, and
“Things they can’t experience anywhere else.”
dency on the almighty auto?”
welcoming communities.
For Petrocelli, whose bookstore will soon be
While the Marin economy is relatively strong,
LAST MONTH’S TOUR OF CALIFORNIA
And both events were good for the county’s
competing with a nearby Barnes & Noble
“economies don’t take care of themselves—they
economy. How do such events help the Marin
megastore, part of that equation is commu-
need constant attention,” McGlashan said.
economy? Three ways:
nity-based retailing.
How true! A strong economy benefits ev-
• They create community by bringing people
“Neighborhood stores are where people
eryone, so we all have a responsibility to keep
together in a celebratory mood, which in-
gather to discuss things, get to know each oth-
Marin fiscally fit. This can mean welcoming new
evitably results in money changing hands.
er,” he said. “People tend to go where things
ideas, as well as supporting traditional concepts.
• They bring in outside money and distribute
are happening, where it’s lively and fun.” As
It entails giving friendly greetings to neighbors,
it locally through hotel stays, meals, and
a way of attracting such business, Petrocelli is
as well as to first-time visitors. Tourism—and
various other purchases.
considering a package where tourists are of-
a strong sense of community—are essential to
• The media coverage, especially television,
fered an author’s presentation at Book Passage,
maintaining a vibrant Marin economy. That’s my
portrays Marin to a wide audience as an in-
followed by a short hike and a picnic lunch
point of view; what’s yours?
viting place to visit, which eventually attracts
at a nearby park. “I see it as a great way for
more tourist dollars to local businesses.
Marin people to interact with visitors from all
26
MARIN APRIL 2006
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Email jwood@marinmagazine.com.
PHOTO: BARBARA RIES
Bottom line: Tourism—and a strong sense of community—are essential to Marin main-
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
2/28/06
12:36:33 PM
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AT A G LAN C E
AP RIL Partake in all sorts of foolish behavior at the Saint Stupid’s Day Parade, an annual tribute to wackiness in San Francisco’s Financial District. For more info, check out saintstupid.com
APRIL 2 Time Change
THRU APRIL Shaky Ground
Don’t forget to change your clocks and enjoy an extra hour of sunshine—daylight saving time begins today!
Commemorate the 1906 earthquake by viewing the Exploratorium’s new Magnitude X exhibit. Palace of Fine Arts (SF). 415.563.7337, exploratorium.edu ▼
APRIL 1 April Fool’s
THRU APRIL Birding in Bolinas
APRIL 5–9 Sonoma Valley Film Festival
Watch nesting herons and egrets at the Bolinas Lagoon Preserve, recently opened for its 2006 public season. 415.868.9244, egret.org ▼
Mingle with filmmakers while enjoying over 75 new independent films, wine, and food. 707.933.2600, cinemaepicuria.org
APRIL 15 Eggs in Wonderland
A joint talk by Yolanda King and Susannah Heschel—daughters of famous fathers who marched for civil rights in 1965. Osher Marin JCC (San Rafael). 415.444.8000, marinjcc.org
Take the kids for an afternoon of fun activities and an Alice in Wonderland–inspired egg hunt at the Falkirk Cultural Center (San Rafael). 415.485.3327, falkirkculturalcenter.org ▼
APRIL 22 Earth Day
APRIL 26 Rainforest Dance
Pay your respects to Mother Earth by doing something good for the environment: carpool to ▼ work, recycle, or hug a tree.
Embark on a magical journey through a tropical rain forest, complete with dancing lizards, frogs, and more. Presented by Youth in Arts at Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.457.4878, youthinarts.org ▼
EVE NT S IN MA R IN & B EYO N D
▼
APRIL 8 Daughters of the Dream
28
THRU APRIL Wine Tasting
APRIL 29 Bottoms Up
Explore five remarkable homes and gardens on this fundraising tour hosted by the Outdoor Art Club (Mill Valley). 415.455.4695, outdoorartclub.org
Check out Stonestreet Winery’s recently opened tasting room, now pouring Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay (Healdsburg). stonestreetwines.com
Taste over 200 beers from across the world at the annual International Beer Festival. Fort Mason (SF). sfbeerfest.com
MARIN APRIL 2006
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▼
APRIL 27 Garden Tour
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
2/24/06 3:27:31 PM
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M A R I N ALBUM
Sliding into Spring
BY TIM PORTER
IT’S BIG. IT’S BOUNCY. IT’S REALLY, REALLY YELLOW. What’s not to like when you’re threeand-a-half? The Sunday morning farmers’ market in the San Rafael Civic Center is part food festival, part alfresco breakfast nook, and—especially when the winter sun is shining—part carnival for kids. Young Marcus Balano was there on a recent Sunday with his dad, Matt, and discovered that a 22-foot-high inflatable slide is way more fun than looking at piles of parsnips or leafing through layers of organic chard. Root vegetables? Ecch! Let’s play, Dad! For the 150-plus farmers, bakers, and ranchers who rise before dawn to ensure that stalls of organic produce, fresh butter, and crusty breads greet the first of the day’s typical 5,000 visitors, the Farmers’ Market is all about food—and business. But for many of those visitors, loll about a bit, and to play the grown-up game of seeing and being seen. With age, we put away our childish things. But the next time you’re at the Sunday market, take a break from the rutabagas (a very adult vegetable), visit the kid zone, and remember what writer Joseph Heller said in one of his novels: “When I grow up, I want to be a little boy.” 30
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PHOTO: TIM PORTER
the market serves as the modern town square, a place to caffeinate, to graze, to stroll and
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
2/24/06 3:28:22 PM
Andy Kristen Direct: 415-342-5118 Email: andykristen@A-Team1.com
Andrew Grossman Direct: 415-342-9995 Email: andrewgrossman@A-Team1.com
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SNAP HAPPENINGS
Celebrating Health
Happy Anniversary Fit Marinites flocked to the Bay Club Marin’s gala to celebrate its three-year anniversary. Guests at the black-tie-optional event Sandy Hoeffer
Berry and Pat Foster
Megan Devlin, Erin Ruker
helped raise funds for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Marin and Napa Counties while feasting on hors d’oeuvres and cocktails and getting down to
BAY CLUB PHOTOS: SHERI MONTGOMERY / INSTITUTE OF HEALTH AND HEALING PHOTOS: TOM GIBBONS
Big City Review, a San Cindy Lang, Vicki Coll
Jimmy Wanninger
Marty and Marina Bautusta, Amy Launders
David Ardes, Matt Kiisk
Melinda Sesto
Henrik Nielson, Per Bessing
Francisco party band.
Keren Bause, Shannon Kempster, Soraya Aughney
The Doctor Is In Hundreds of health-conscious folks gathered to raise money for the Institute of Health and Healing and for a chance to meet Andrew Weil, M.D., best-selling author and event honoree. In addition to enjoying an elegant dinner and dessert reception at San Francisco’s Four Seasons Hotel, guests successfully met the institute’s fundraising goal of $500,000, to be used for providing care for the financially needy and creating innovative new programs.
George F. Lee, Toni Brayer
Andrew Weil, Barbara Brown
Barbara Patton, Dean Ornish
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S N A P HAPPENI NGS
Steppin’ Out Director’s Ball Opera buffs gathered at the Four Seasons to welcome David Gockley, the San Francisco Opera’s new general director. In a glamorous 1940s supper club ambience, guests dined on a four-course dinner by Four Seasons Anne Marie Massocca, David Gockley
Executive Chef Jeremy Emmerson. Later
Cheryl Baxter
Leon and Sallie Huntting
in the evening, they were also treated to a cabaret performance by renowned opera s i n g e r Pa t r i c i a Racette and jazz
John Bracco
Jake Heggie, Patricia Racette, Sir Richard Rodney Bennett
musician Sir Richard Rodney Bennett.
Ginny and Monte Lawrence
DIRECTOR’S BALL PHOTOS: SHERI MONTGOMERY / VALENTINE’S BALL PHOTOS: PETER LEABO
Bill and Mary Poland
Joan Eddwards, Lonn Wais, Olivia Decker
Diane and Archer Rueben, Katie Jarman
Spreading the Love Elegantly dressed Marin folks came out to celebrate and fund-raise at the recent Marin Valentine’s Ball. Wearing a dazzling dress by Lea Designs, Susan Gilmore of the North Bay Children’s Center and other guests enjoyed a sit-down dinner, live music, and silent auctions. Funds raised at the black-tie extravaganza will support the North Bay Children’s Center, Timothy Murphy School for Boys, and Whistlestop.
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Susan Gilmore, Spencer Christian
Bob and Nannette Griswold, Lynn and Russ Colombo
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S N A P BUSINESS
Lots of Love Back in Business Art Lovers About 100 Marin artists and art patrons showed up for the “Year of the Dog”–themed silent art auction and fundraiser hosted by the San Anselmo Art Commission last January. The event, catered by Sage, gave guests the opportunity to bid on original artwork, enjoy live music, and take part in a raffle. Over $5,000 was raised in support of community arts programs. Because of the recent flood damage, 10 percent of the night’s proceeds were also donated to help repair the San Anselmo Public Library.
After weeks of postflood cleaning and rebuilding, San Anselmo merchants hosted a weekend of activities, proving they’re open for business again. Nancy Blanc, Ouida Chichester Called “Put the Heart Back in San Anselmo,” the festival featured sidewalk sales, live music, and refreshments. Participating businesses included La Sede Bella, the Pink Geranium, Blanc, Eden Day Spa, Dogville, Gigi’s, and others.
Donna Seager, Naim Satya
John Loutas, Lynn Brown
Lindsey Cromwell, Ambra Rossetti
Jeb Brady, Kay Coleman
Married at Gump’s
Ballroom Wedding
Kathleen Wilson, Jill Williamson, Sheila Rabaut Winona Kim, LaRoma Tomosada
Sheila Zack
McCoy Burford
Beautiful brides gathered last month at Gump’s to browse the gorgeous array of possibilities for their own wedding. Over a dozen tables were artistically displayed, tasty cake samples were given out, and even representatives from
36
A red carpet and brass band greeted soon-to-be-married couples at the recent wedding affair in San Francisco’s
the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel in Hawaii were there to talk to brides about their
Julia Morgan Ballroom. Among the take-
wedding plans or honeymoons. The fashion show included gowns from Marina
home goodies was a user-friendly bridal
Morrison with Grace.
registry kit from Williams-Sonoma.
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ART LOVERS PHOTOS: DEBORAH TODD / BALLROOM WEDDING PHOTOS: TERESA HALTON PHOTOGRAPHY
Jane Ann Fontenot, Richard Hammill
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S N A P COMMUNI T Y
Marin Gets Involved Spinning Through Cycling enthusiasts flocked to Sausalito to kick off February’s Amgen Tour of California. In a big tent by the harbor, the 600 plus guests who showed up for the gala wined and dined with professional cyclists from all over the world, bid on the latest gear, and viewed a one-of-a-kind cycling fashion show.
Larry Knott, Freddie Rodriguez
George Hincapie, P.J. Rabice
Levi Leipheimer
Durwood Zedd, Edith Caldwell
Amy Belzer, Dennis Scremin
Tamara Colarossi, Vogondy Nicolas, Lora Christine Vichich
Peter Stock, Doug Shapiro, Todd Greenhalgh
Grant Cooper, Linda Carruthers
Viatcheslav Ekimov
Nathan O’Neill, Chris Horner
Keith Hasting, Peggy and Jack McGlynn
A Royal Affair More than 180 friends of Marin Breast Cancer Watch gathered to honor this SPINNING THROUGH PHOTOS: SHERI MONTGOMERY
year’s “kings” and “queens” in the fight against breast cancer. The event was held at the Mill Valley Community Center, which was festively decorated in red, white, and black to match the “Queen of Hearts”– themed gala. In addition to honoring those who have contributed to the fight against breast cancer and raising funds for the organization, guests enjoyed live swing music, a casino, and a silent auction.
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Chuck Bennett
Roni Peskin Mentzer, Sandra Cross, Fern Orenstein
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
2/27/06 2:53:37 PM
©2006 Closet Factory. All rights reserved. CA License #602641
WHAT YOU DO IN YOUR CLOSET IS OUR BUSINESS. At Closet Factory, we understand your passion for elegance and perfection. Our Designers create custom interiors that allow the things you love to fall gracefully into place. We don’t ask you to fit into someone else’s world because we come and dance in perfect step with yours. It is what makes us unique.
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FASHION
bigger is better PHOTOS SASHA GULISH EDITOR SAMANTHA SCHOECH
Clockwise from top left: Multicolored tote by Burberry London, $495 at Burberry (San Francisco) 415.392.2200. Blue metallic bag by Betsey Johnson, $325 at Bella (San Rafael) 415.457.1066. Embellished belt by J. Jill, $58 at J. Jill (Corte Madera) 415.924.3933. Orange bag by Ginger Michelle, $165 at Bella. Blue platforms by Kenneth Cole, $195 at Kenneth Cole (San Francisco) 415.981.2653. Green studded belt by Jeff Gallea, $200 at Green Apples (Sausalito) 415.331.8227. Espadrille by Burberry London, $265 at Burberry. Blue satchel by Hobo, $135 at Gala (Larkspur) 415.924.7680. Green platforms by Kenneth Cole, $69 at Kenneth Cole.
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HAPPY FEET
Wide belts, big bags,and lofty heels lead the pack of spring’s high-profile accessories
Marin shoe designer Anyi Lu gets her inspiration from the world of ballroom dancing, where comfort and style are absolute musts. This spring she combines classic lines with sun-kissed colors to create stylish, sophisticated shoes that are kind to your feet. Prices range from $285 to $395. Available at Catherine Jane (Mill Valley), Mara (Novato), and Nordstrom (San Francisco Centre).
Clockwise from top left: Metallic tote by Burberry London, $525 at Burberry. Satin and rubber shoe by Marc Jacobs, $285 at Marc Jacobs (San Francisco) 415.362.6500. Bronze tote by Not Rational, $385 at Gala. Studette metallic wedge by Kenzie, $65 at Bella. Woven belt by Cole Haan, $95 at Cole Haan (San Francisco) 415.391.1760. Sixties satchel by Marc Jacobs, $1,500 at Marc Jacobs. Wide suede belt by Kristin Kahle, $160 at Gala. Serina studded bag by Calleen Cordero, $429 at Blanc (San Anselmo) 415.485.0104. Eclipse platform sandal by Kenzie, $65 at Bella. White bag by Ginger Michelle, $165 at Bella. Painted belt with brass buckle by Jeff Gallea, $189 at Green Apples.
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FA S H I O N
life style Name Kristi Sandford Home San Rafael Occupation Interior Designer/Principal, Kristi Sandford Interiors What are you wearing? Gucci sunglasses with a little bling. Half-carat diamond stud earrings, a Leslie Maendl “Wilma” turquoise chunk necklace—all of her work is one-of-a-kind so it’s like wearing a piece of art. The bracelets and ring are from my own turquoise collection from New Mexico. The clothes: Loro Piana cashmere cape, TSE cashmere tank, Calvin Klein white linen pants and shoes from Heidi Says in San Francisco. Snakeskin purse by Prada for St. Barth’s boutiques. Where would you wear this outfit? To work or to a nice lunch. How long does it take you to get ready in the morning? About 20 minutes. I put my clothes out the night before; I sort of have my uniforms. Describe your personal style. Classic elegance. I love luxury fabrics paired with hip accessories like a cashmere sweater with jeans that fit well, groovy shoes and one of my signature hats. I have a collection from all over the world. Who are your fashion influences? I love Giorgio Armani. He’s a man of style— everything he does, from fashion to Armani Casa. Also, I love anything Tom Ford does. Favorite designers? Prada, Armani, YSL, and anyone up-andcoming. I love new talent and fresh ideas. 42
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Where do you love to shop in Marin? Canvas, Allie G, Cavallo, and Pearl. They have well-chosen accessories that are fashion forward and really spice up your wardrobe. What is always in your bag? Sephora #17 lipstick, MAC lip glass in Lucky Charm, and my YSL Martel, a long narrow silk scarf that I can wear as a belt, a scarf, or a headband in case I want to add an accessory. What is the single most essential piece in your wardrobe? Anything cashmere. I have socks, pants, sweaters, bathrobes—everything. What would you never be caught dead in? Athletic shoes, unless I’m going to the gym. What do you splurge on? Shoes, handbags, and jewelry. What is your best cheapo secret? Mossimo jeans at Target. Great fit, great price. Are you an impulse shopper or do you need time to deliberate? A little of both. If I walk into Foot Candy, I’m impulse. If I’m looking to replace a black cashmere sweater, I’m thoughtful. What’s your fashion pet peeve? Midriffs. Even if you look great and have a perfect body, I only want to see it if I’m at the beach. What’s the most expensive thing you’ve ever bought? A Revillon ranch mink coat. Did it make you happy? Very. It’s very luxurious. I don’t get to wear it often in California but I take it to Europe when I go in the winter. If your life were a movie, what would be your theme song?
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F Y I PERFORMING ARTS
Bonnie Hayes Marin County songwriter makes music from the heart BY SCOTT JONES
and a great place to be working, but it’s so
on in their brains right now,” Hayes says. “Music
her own and has written songs
beautiful here.”
has become a kind of conduit for emotional ex-
for musicians as diverse as Bette
Hayes’s 12-year-old daughter, Lilly, has her
pression that can’t come out in other ways. Kids
Midler, Carlos Santana, Robert
own band and is starting out in music even
are affect-averse: They don’t want to talk about
Cray, and Cher. But it was two
earlier in life than her mom did. Hayes was 16,
or discuss anything icky like emotion. Music is
hits recorded by Bonnie Raitt—“Love Letter”
living in San Francisco with her mother and
almost like a talisman of emotion for what’s
and “Have a Heart”—that Hayes likes to say
on the verge of drifting into trouble, when a
hardest for them to talk about.”
paid for her house in San Anselmo.
friend connected her with Blue Bear, the ven-
Hayes also provides her students with life
Hayes, who has been a fixture in Marin
erable Ocean Avenue music school. She stud-
lessons learned from making a living in the
since the early ’80s when she and her band,
ied piano and within a year went from student
music business. Marin is expensive and op-
Wild Combo, played all over the Bay Area,
to full-time instructor.
portunities can be few for local young musi-
lived in Los Angeles for a time but returned to Marin in the early ’90s and stayed.
Hayes now sits on Blue Bear’s board of di-
cians, she says.
rectors and still teaches songwriting there. She
“There are people making great music
“I gave up the L.A. community, which is
also works on creating music education pro-
here; there’s no doubt about it. I see them all
much more active and lively, so I could bring
grams for young people that she hopes can
the time, but they’re all frustrated,” she says
my daughter up in a place where she could
someday be used in the public schools.
of Marin’s younger musicians who struggle to
ride her bike,” she says. “I think it was a good
“Music is such a gift and it’s so important for
make enough money to live here. “We have
trade. I loved L.A. and it was really exciting
many of the other things that kids are working
awesome talent.… But I think that they leave
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44
P H OTO: TIM P ORTER
B
ONNIE HAYES has five CDs of
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10:00:13 AM
to make it. It’s just really hard to live in the cracks here.” It is a paradox that many successful musicians live in Marin, says Hayes. “The quin– tessential Marin musician is a rich musician,” she says. “A person who is either a hobbyist who has made a lot of money in another world and has now decided to be a musician, or it’s a person like me who has made enough money and has a kid she wants to raise in a nice environment.” Success exacts a price from everyone, and for Hayes, after writing “Love Letter” for Bonnie Raitt’s 1989 album Nick of Time, it was the expectation that every song would be a hit. “I was a vocation songwriter,” she says. “I didn’t do it for money. I didn’t think about money, until I had to, until it became my living. I really had a terrible time with the money. “When I got the money, then it was suddenly like, ‘We want you to write another song like “Love Letter” or ‘Write another song like “Have A Heart.”’... Now I can’t write any bad songs anymore. If you can’t write a bad song, then you can’t write a good one.” Somehow, though, Hayes made peace
isda & co
with success. She is still writing good music
petit pois
and in 2003 made Love in the Ruins, a wellreceived CD she produced in her home stu-
sworn virgin
dio and released under a label she co-owns,
pure color
Bondage Records. “I feel like I’ve got the best band,” says
rachel pally
Hayes, “and I made, I think, the best record that
om girl
I’ve ever made since I’ve been here because I feel
one girl who
like I was away from the commercial restraints
beautiful people
and restrictions.” Life in Marin has been liberating for Hayes, whether it’s playing at Sweetwater in Mill Valley or just being part of the local cultural scene. “There is a mentality here, a philosophy that has created a culture of beauty,” says Hayes. “The people are beautiful. Every time I go to a party, I meet ten brilliant, funny, cool people. You don’t have to wade through 50 idiots to get to somebody you like. I have to say that I’m really happy. I have a beautiful life and everything is so yummy. All I need is a room full of people and a freaking guitar, man, and I’m happy.”
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“Don’t make something unless it is both necessary and useful; but if it is both necessary and useful, don’t hesitate to make it beautiful.” - Shaker proverb
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MARIN APRIL 2006
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2/28/06
12:07:00 PM
F Y I T R AV E L
Same Time Next Year Choosing your own family’s favorite spot BY M . L. LATHAN
IMAGINE KIDS SLATHERED with sunscreen
pool exploring, lei making, and hula lessons
and frolicking in the sand, Dad taking a nap
while the adults lounge or spa. $70 for all day
under the shade of a palm, and Mom lolling
at Camp Hyatt; kauai.hyatt.com.
in the surf. In case your brood hasn’t found its
Princeville Resort Hawaii Overlooking
go-to Hawaiian vacation spot, we’ve highlight-
the world-famous Hanalei Bay, this luxe hotel
ed a few hotels that offer kids’ clubs, pools,
loves to accommodate little visitors. The keiki
and other family-friendly perks on four of the
camp activities last from morning until midday
most popular islands.
and include Hawaiian arts and crafts, movie nights, and off-site adventures for ages 5 to 12. $65 a day for keiki camp; princeville.com.
Kauai—the garden isle The Grand Hyatt at Poipu Known for its 150-foot water slide and meandering saltwater
Oahu—the meeting place
lagoon. Any tot who’s potty trained can go to
Kahala Mandarin Situated just out of the
Camp Hyatt and partake of activities like tide-
hustle and bustle of Waikiki overlooking
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Diamond Head, this family favorite has its own
a “Tarzan pool” with rope swing, six water-
Besides the tennis for children, sand sculpting,
private beach and, best of all, a dolphin la-
falls, caves, and more. The Camp Grande is
and gecko hunts, the Kids for All Seasons pro-
goon. The keiki club is for ages 5 to 12; there’s
a 20,000-square-foot miniresort for ages 5 to
gram takes ages 5 to 12 for the day—gratis for
also Kids’ Quest for Knowledge, a hands-on
12; it’s designed to accommodate the whim
hotel guests; fourseasons.com/haulalai.
two-hour educational program about dolphins,
of every child and parent, with hula danc-
The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel An old-
fish, turtles, rays, and predators. Keiki club
ing, kite making, and a theater when the sun
time favorite for many Californians, the Mauna
$55 a day, Kids’ Quest $185; mandarinorien-
is just too much. Camp Grande $80 per day;
Kea is known for having the best beach on the
tal.com/kahala.
grandwailea.com.
island and for its famous Pantone 165 (or-
Turtle Bay Resort Venture out of Honolulu
The Fairmont Kealani Maui Located on
ange) plumeria, seen on visors and T-shirts all
to the windward side of the island. Besides the
the white sandy beach of Wailea, this is the
over the world. During the summer, kids un-
two pools—one with a fun slide—the hotel is
only oceanfront option with suites and villas.
der 12 (with a parent) get breakfast free, and
surrounded by five miles of reefs and offers
The main pool has a super-slippery 140-foot
the keiki camp is half price, with Hawaiian
night sand crab hunts, pole fishing, and reef
slide and lots of space for everyone to splash.
arts and crafts and outdoor activities includ-
walks. The keiki club includes Hawaiian arts
The Kealani keiki club takes kids between 5
ing beach time. Keiki camp $25 per day;
and crafts, swimming, and horse-and-carriage
and 10 years old, with pool time and arts and
maunakeabeachotel.com.
rides for $65 a day; turtlebayresort.com.
crafts, for $80 a day; fairmont.com.
Maui—the valley isle
Hawaii—the Big Island
ter year. The warm tropical breezes and crystal-
The Grand Wailea This property is fa-
Four Seasons Hualalai The Four Seasons
clear water brings them back. Complimentary
mous for its endless pools connected by a
have outdone themselves. Child-size bathrobes
programs for children ages 6 to 12 years old.
river that carries swimmers along at varying
and baby and children toiletries await your
An upcoming multimillion-dollar renovation is
speeds. Wailea Canyon includes four jungle
family’s arrival. They’ve even thought of teens,
on the horizon, to ensure it holds its own as a
pools, four slides, a whitewater rapids slide,
who get their own game and activity center.
favorite family destination; konavillage.com.
The Kona Village Since 1965 the Kona Village has welcomed returning families year af-
esortQuest Hawaii has 27 hotels and condominium resorts on 4 Hawaiian islands. On the island of Maui, you’ll find the perfect place to stay at ResortQuest Kaanapali Shores, a full service resort condominium located beachfront on world-famous Kaanapali Beach.
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MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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F Y I ARTS
Caught on Film
N APRIL 18, 1906, an earthquake shook the San Francisco Bay Area with a force that could be felt from southern Oregon to Los Angeles. The rupture along the San Andreas Fault spanned 290 miles, but the epicenter was near San Francisco. While the damage from the quake itself was significant, the real devastation followed in the wake of the temblor as fires erupted throughout the city, wreaking havoc on the place and its residents for three days. Many of the structures still standing after the seismic event were dynamited in an effort to quell the conflagration and inhibit its spread. While the U.S. Civil War decades earlier— the first American calamity to be documented on film—was a far more destructive and widespread catastrophe (nearly half a million dead compared with 7,000 from the quake), the 1906 earthquake captured the attention and imagination of the public with an unprecedented fervor. The most significant factor contributing to this shift was the proliferation of photography. An exhibition currently on view at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, 1906 Earthquake: A Disaster in Pictures, explores photography’s pivotal role in shaping public
SFMOMA examines the 1906 earthquake and the legacy of a developing medium
exhibition tells the story of a critical moment in photography’s history and in the Bay Area’s history through a selection of nearly 100 vintage prints, stereo views, glass lantern
PHOTO: COURTESY OF
BY ANNE CRUMP RAY
perceptions of the earthquake and fire. The
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slides, albums, and rare cyanotypes on fabric
dreds of thousands of the cameras, introducing
produced by amateur and professional photog-
new models each year. By the time of the earth-
raphers in the wake of the event.
quake in 1906, hundreds of amateur photogra-
Corey Keller, SFMOMA assistant curator of
phers were equipped to document its aftermath.
photography and the organizer of the show, says
They produced snapshots that offered refresh-
museum leaders had decided nearly two years
ingly candid and personalized perspectives on
ago that they would mount an exhibition to
what has happening—buildings smoldering,
commemorate the earthquake’s centennial. In
makeshift businesses springing up on sidewalks,
the early days of planning, however, curators
spectators casually observing the scene.
weren’t quite sure how to approach the subject.
Keller’s search yielded thousands of these
“We’re not a historical museum, we’re an
images. “I began to realize that these pictures
art museum,” Keller notes. As she began to sift
are everywhere,” she says. In fact, determin-
through pictures in preparation for the show,
ing what to include in the exhibition became
however, she quickly realized the significance of
much more difficult as a result. She revisited
photography in how the disaster was portrayed,
some photo archives multiple times, changing
and she honed her search to select photographs
her selections as she gained a broader sense of
that would illustrate the impact of the evolving
the types of photos that existed.
medium even as they offered a window on life in the days after the earthquake itself.
Amateur snapshots weren’t the only photographic records of the seismic event, of course. Professional photographers also rushed to docu-
Power to the people
ment the devastation, employed by newspapers,
Perhaps the most significant factor in photogra-
insurance companies, and commercial publish-
phy’s surge at the turn of the last century was its
ers that sold the images in souvenir booklets
availability. In 1900, George Eastman introduced
and as postcards and prints. The professional
the Brownie, a handheld camera that was easy
shots were particularly dramatic, benefiting
to use and, at $1 each, affordable. He sold hun-
from technology that allowed large, continuous
Jack London and the Great Earthquake and Firestorms of 1906 Through May 27 California Historical Society, 678 Mission St., San Francisco; 415.357.1848; californiahistoricalsociety.org; $3 adults, $1 students and seniors over 62, free for members and children under 5; Wed–Sat noon–4:30; closed Sun–Tues. Aftershock!—Personal Stories from the 1906 Earthquake and Fire April 1–August 13 Oakland Museum of California, 1000 Oak St., Oakland; 510.238.2200; museumca.org; $8 adults, $5 students and seniors over 65, free for members and children under 6; Wed–Fri 10–5; Sat 10–8; Sun noon–6; closed Mon–Tues. After the Ruins—1906 and 2006: Rephotographing the San Francisco Earthquake and Fire Through June 4 Legion of Honor, Lincoln Park, 34th Ave. and Clement St., San Francisco; 415.863.3330; thinker.org; $10 adults, $7 seniors, $6 ages 13–17, free for members and children under 12; $2 discount with Muni Fast Pass or transfer; Tues–Sun 9:30–5
PH OTO:
PHOTO: COURTESY OF
Main photo: Arnold Genthe, Untitled (San Francisco Fire), gelatin silver print; gift of Robert Koch. Clockwise from above left: H.C. White Co., Kearny St and Hall of Justice after the Great Disaster, 1906; stereo view; Prints and Photographs Division, Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.; H.C. White Co., Califonia Street to Fairmont Hotel, Great Merchant’s Exchange on Left, San Francisco Disaster, 1906; stereo view; Prints and Photographs Division, Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.; H.C. White Co., After the Earthquake—Frame Houses Tumbled from Their Foundations, San Francisco Disaster, 1906; stereo view; Prints and Photographs Division, Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.; H.C. White Co., Dynamiting Dangerous Walls on Market St., after the Fire, San Francisco Disaster, 1906; stereo view; Prints and Photographs Division, Library of Congress, Washington, D.C..
OTHER EARTHQUAKERELATED EXHIBITIONS
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panoramas; stereo-view cards giving a three-dimensional take on the disaster; and artistic, romanticized stills that likened San Francisco to an ancient city in ruins. In a particularly innovative feat, Chicago photographer George Lawrence employed a chain of kites to suspend an oversize camera 2,000 feet above San Francisco,
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capturing aerial views of the scene. “The aerial pictures are pretty remarkable,” says Keller. “The airplane was invented in 1903, so most people wouldn’t have had this kind of view of the city before.” In addition to depictions of destruction
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and ruin are pictures of a city rebuilding, a citizenry mobilized, and order being restored. Local businesses, politicians, and citizens, who formed groups with names like the California Promotion Committee, spearheaded efforts to document the Bay Area’s recovery and dissem-
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inate these images to counter the public impression of a young city brought to its knees. “The city was only 50 years old at the time,” Keller notes. “The pictures were used as a media campaign to control the image of San Francisco so businesses and individuals would continue to invest here.” SFMOMA’s presentation illustrates the variety of interests served by photography in the wake of the 1906 disaster, as well as the techniques employed. Keller combed historical archives and private collections to find the pictures that best represented how photography was used at the time, poring over thou-
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sands of images and ultimately selecting the hundred most informative, enlightening, and interesting. Most of these works have rarely been seen, which makes this exhibition an exciting opportunity for the public to view a remarkable photographic record. 1906 Earthquake: A Disaster in Pictures continues at SFMOMA through May 30. In conjunction with the exhibition, the museum presents the panel discussion “Disasters in Pictures” at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 1, in its Phyllis Wattis Theater, featuring Keller in conversation with Harvard University professor Robin Kelsey and Arizona State University faculty member Mark Klett. Admission for this event is $14 general; $8 members, students, and seniors. In addition, the museum hosts free daily screenings of films gathered from the archives of the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., spotlighting San Francisco in the years leading up to and immediately following the earthquake, at 2 p.m. in the Koret Visitor Education Center through May 30. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art,
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F Y I HOM E
Art Alfresco Outdoor spaces display garden sculpture Archie Held Studio
BY MIMI TOWLE FROM WHIMSICAL STATUES of goblins to monolith water features, Marin’s gardens are
HA Art Forms
blooming with sculpture of all shapes and sizes. Whatever your taste or budget, there is an outdoor sculpture to suit any homeowner’s style. One spot that has been popular for almost two decades is The Magic Planter in Sausalito, where owner Walter Rogers will work with clients on custom orders as well as sell finished works by local artists including Archie Held, an
Claudia Chapline Gallery
internationally recognized sculptor who created and donated a water sculpture for the Town
Pieces are often used as the focal point of a gar-
round, shopping for their gardens, but once it
Center of Corte Madera.
den.” He likes to place works where they can be
gets warmer and the sun comes out, more and more people want to work on their gardens.”
“Sculpture can be very inspirational and
seen from the interior of the home as well as
meditative,” explains Held. “My work in par-
from the garden. He also likes to add water to
Heading north, many Marin gardeners
ticular has a very simple Zen-like quality to it.
his pieces. “Water adds life to the sculpture; it is
have happened upon HA Art Forms in Sonoma.
a contemplative and relaxing quality. The sound
Here, Hossain Amjadi has been creating whim-
soothes the soul, particularly after a long day.”
sical garden art for nearly two decades. Using
GARDEN SCULPTURE SOURCES Claudia Chapline Gallery, 3445 Shoreline Hwy., Stinson Beach; 415.868.2308; cchapline.com
Next time you head over to Stinson Beach,
symbols such as hearts and crescents, and
check out Claudia Chapline’s magical garden,
natural or human forms, he creates flowing
which has been an inspiration for sculpture
pieces made of steel that seem to defy grav-
The Magic Planter, 1201 Bridgeway, Sausalito; 415.331.2178
gardens since 1989—and best yet, everything
ity. Amjadi’s passion for life is evident in his
is for sale. Her outdoor studio contains sculp-
work. “I keep my mind open to all possibilities
Archie Held Studio, #5 18th St., Richmond; 510.235.8700; archieheld.com
tures and wall hangings by Marin artists Josh
and place no limit on my creations; whether
Churchman, Sally Seymour, Michael Barnett,
it’s working on my latest expressions or work-
and Adel Feltzer, among others. Chapline notes
ing on a commission, art keeps my mind flow-
that foot traffic increases in the sunnier months:
ing with inspirations that flow from my soul
“People are out here every weekend all year
out into the world.”
HA Art Forms, 23150 Arnold Dr., Sonoma; 707.935.0126; ha-artforms.com
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F Y I PEO P LE
It’s All About the Music New record label forms in Mill Valley
P HOTO: BARBA RA R IE S
BY TIM PORTER
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2/27/06 12:03:08 PM
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I
N MILL VALLEY THERE’S A SPOT on Miller Avenue, midway between a Buddhist temple and a Mexican restaurant, where if you
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stand on the sidewalk and listen for a bit you just might hear the sound of an old Wurlitzer electric piano being played. Then, if you let your ears lead the way, you’d climb a set of stairs, follow the music down a narrow hall, and soon be looking at that ’58 Wurlitzer. On its keyboard would be the hands of Tim Hockenberry, longtime Bay Area singer, trombonist, and now the first musician under contract with the man whose office he is in: George Daly. Daly, a Los Angeles refugee living in Marin, is the founder of About Records, a fledgling music label that represents the culmination of Daly’s lifetime in music as a bassist, songwriter, and producer, working at times with musicians
PH: 415.925.8400
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About Records is Daly’s chance to combine his ear for talent and music business skills with his desire for independence after two decades with companies like Columbia Records and Atlantic Records.
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“I’ve found a lot of great talent in my life. … I was wrong sometimes, but I was right a lot, which has kept me employed for a great many years,” says Daly. “In doing that, you end up wanting to do your own thing and not be constrained by anybody else’s opinion.” Daly’s partner in About Records is Dan Sapp, a onetime management and venture
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capital consultant who also happens to be a guitar player. Two things brought Daly and Sapp together: preschool and a funeral. “I went to a funeral of a good friend and his brother was there playing some music,” Daly recalls. The two men, some other musicians, and Daly’s wife, Mary Anne, an autoharpist, put together a pickup band that “played a little bit at Sweetwater.” One day, Mary Anne told her husband about a guitarist who might be right for the band. “And my wife said, ‘There’s a fellow at the preschool who plays and sings,’” he recalls. “I said, ‘Oh, great, I’ll put the record company together and he’ll be the business side of it and
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he’ll join the band. In fact, I went to him and that’s exactly what happened.” Sapp has a slightly different version. “We started talking … and he laid down the gauntlet and said to his wife, ‘If the guy can sing he’ll be my business partner.’ And I fooled him into believing I could sing well enough to hold up … The next thing I knew we were raising money, looking for artists and setting up an office.” Hockenberry, a soulful, gravelly-voiced singer, embodies the type of music About Records wants to produce. Daly first heard Hockenberry sing while he and his wife were sitting at a table in D’Angelo’s restaurant in downtown Mill Valley. “I was completely knocked out,” says Daly. “I never heard anyone who can put as much emotion into a
“
I’ve found a lot of great talent in my life.
”
— GEORGE DALY
lyric as he does. We want to make the music of our time,” he adds. “We’re not looking to do music of the genre that existed 25 years ago. We’re looking for the expression of the times we live in.” About Records has also signed East Bay
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bass player and composer Tony Saunders, son of the great Bay Area keyboardist Merl Saunders, as well as West Marin countryblues singer Larkin Gayl. The company doesn’t have any immediate goals for signing a specific number of artists, says Daly. “You can’t do it that way,” he adds. “It’s really about finding greatness.… This isn’t a business that runs on good. It runs on great.” The company’s backers and partners have a who’s-who renown: Dennis Erokan, founder of the Bay Area Music Awards (the Bammies), and producers like Grammy winner Michael Rosen, Chuck Plotkin, and Rob Fraboni, who have worked with musicians ranging from Santana to Bruce Springsteen to Bonnie Raitt. With that lineup, success might seem inevitable. But, as Sapp says, “The thing we’re doing is either the easiest thing to do or the
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hardest thing to do.” Whichever it is, expect to hear more about About Records this year.
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F Y I H E A LT H
Sun Sense UVB, UVA, parabens? BY MIMI TOWLE TO TAN OR NOT TO TAN—the eternal ques-
been interested in the viability of sunscreen for
tion when it comes to skin care. Daily we are
over three decades, offers his perspective.
taunted by the smiling, suntanned faces of ce-
“When I was in training, we thought that
lebs like Jennifer Aniston and George Hamilton
UVA [ray exposure] was inconsequential since
who radiate health. However, go to your der-
it did not cause sunburn under normal circum-
matologist and you’re likely to be scolded for
stances,” he says. “However, we now under-
two new freckles.
stand very clearly not only that UVA increases
While hats are a fashionable option, sun-
the risk of cancer, but that much of the visible
screen is the most practical way to stay cov-
damage, including wrinkles and dyspigmenta-
ered all day. Choosing which type of sunscreen
tion, can be produced by UVA alone.”
is where most of us pause: UVA, UVB, FDA
Therefore, he and the American Academy
approved? It can be an acronym nightmare.
of Dermatology recommend using a sunscreen
To clear things up, renowned dermatologist
that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. According
Richard Glogau of San Francisco, who has
to Glogau, the UVB rays are blocked by various
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2/24/06 4:02:55 PM
compounds including PABAs, cinnamates, and
60 sunscreen, available from Canadian sources
tion level here, people tend to read labels and
oxybenzones; however, blocking the UVA rays
online.
care about the products they purchase.”
can be more tricky, because most American
Besides criteria like UVA/UVB, more and
One menace du jour for label readers is a
sunscreens rely on titanium dioxide, zinc ox-
more shoppers are scanning ingredients lists
common preservative and antibacterial agent
ide, or Parsol 1789® (avobenzone) to do that.
for what they have heard are dangerous com-
called paraben—which can be present as
While these do the job, they are not photo-
pounds. Sausalito-based Christine Powell was
ethyl-, methyl- butyl-, or propylparaben—used
stable, i.e., they begin to break down after an
one of these shoppers before creating Juice
for 20-plus years by the cosmetics industry in
hour in the sun. “European sunscreens contain
Beauty, an organic skin-care line. “Many Marin
lotions, toothpastes, and shampoos.
Mexoryl™, a photostable, highly effective UVA
consumers are actively seeking alternatives to
In a 2004 article in the Journal of Applied
block, and many dermatologists, myself includ-
the chemically based products on our shelves,
Toxicology, researchers cited detection of mi–
ed, recommend it for daily use to prevent UVA
and they’re starting to understand that many
nute amounts of methyl- and butylparabens
damage,” Glogau says. Since this product is
cosmetic ingredients are absorbed into the body
in the breast tissue of breast cancer patients,
not available in the United States yet, he advis-
through the skin,” she says. “Considering the
a finding linked to use of underarm deodor-
es patients to buy LaRoche Posey’s AntheliosXL
elevated rate of breast cancer and higher educa-
ant containing these ingredients. In Japan,
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You have needs. * Self Actualization
Bryan’s chicken breast stuffed w/spinach ricotta Esteem Love Shelter Physiological
I understand that. I hear you. And I’m here for you. So are my wonderfully moist and delicious free-range chicken breasts stuffed with farm fresh spinach ricotta. They’re here for you, too. Shove one or more into your oven at 350 for 35 minutes and before you can say Marin County, you’re a completely new person. Fulfilled, contented, a good driver. You’ll feel like a million bucks, having spent way less than half that. I know I will. So take it from me, Bryan, a real big picture guy. If you want to enlighten your inner-self, put one of my free-range chicken breasts stuffed with spinach ricotta in there. Come buy some. * Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs (sort of)
researchers at the Kyoto Prefectural University
Browse the aisles at the new Elephant
of Medicine are now concerned about daily use
Pharmacy in San Rafael and you’ll find an
of products containing methylparaben, which
entire row of paraben-free sunscreens by the
can actually accelerate onset of visible signs of
likes of Ecolani, Lavera, Dr. Hauschka, Max
aging when applied and exposed to the sun.
Green Alchemy, and Juice Beauty, as well as a
Ironically, methylparaben is a common ingre-
slew of other popular all-natural brands. “We
dient in sunscreen.
get lots of special requests,” explains Kristen
Does this mean we should toss everything
Newell, an aesthetician who works in the cos-
containing parabens? Not so fast, says Dr.
metics department: “UVA blocks, UVB blocks,
Glogau. “It is difficult to generalize, but the
paraben-free lotions, spray-on products. So we
reality is that skin does a pretty good job of
stock a variety of brands and price points, to
keeping most things ‘out’ and not letting them
keep everyone happy.” Asked which sunscreen
‘in,’” he explains. “Certain preservatives, like
she uses, she admits she’s not sure if parabens
parabens, can cause allergic dermatitis in sen-
are as harmful as reports suggest. But, she con-
sitive individuals, but the industry has gotten
cludes with a shrug, “Why take a chance?”
much more sophisticated about eliminating well-recognized allergens from their products. Most have substituted other product-stabilizing ingredients, particularly in sunscreens, so the risk of adverse penetration is low.” Even so, many companies are coming
Jochim, also at Juice Beauty, who says an organic product is still the best approach.
Corte Madera Town Center
927.4488 www.bryansfinefoods.com
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If you’d rather not slather on any sunscreen, check out these websites for fashionable and effective sun-protective clothes:
out with paraben-free products. That doesn’t surprise 15-year industry veteran Melissa
Bryan’s Fine Foods
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our skin, having far-reaching effects on our health and well-being.”
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
2/24/06 4:03:39 PM
TANNING TIDBITS KEEP ’EM COVERED! Here’s the good news: 90 percent of skin cancers are avoidable. Now the bad: The number of skin cancer cases of all types is on the rise. In fact, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, melanoma claims a life every hour in this country. For adults, experts say, most of the damage has been done in the first 18 years; however, those with children can make a positive difference in their future by acting now. This includes sun-protective clothes and proper sunscreen, avoiding peak hours between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., and teaching kids to make sun protection a priority.
CHEATERS NEVER PROSPER Indoor tanning salons are a billiondollar business, with teenage girls leading their customer lists. If only those tanning beds gave you that golden-brown tan without any of the harmful UV rays. Unfortunately, a recent study in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute indicated that people who used indoor tanning facilities did have an increased risk of skin cancer. After his bout with skin cancer, Marin County legislator Joe Nation authored a bill that became a law requiring kids from ages 14 to 18 to have a letter of permission from their parents in order to use a tanning bed.
COOL SHADES Confirmed by a recent statement by the American Academy of Ophthalmology: Sunglasses are an essential component of sun-protection attire and should not be overlooked. They protect the eyes from UV damage and help to ward off cataracts, macular degeneration, and ocular melanoma. Thanks to the “Billy Bill” (CASB 310), schools must allow students to wear sun protection such as sunglasses and hats on campus. Opt for sunglasses that provide at least 98 percent protection from both UVA and UVB rays. –M.T.
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FYI BOOKS
LOCAL TYPE
New books by Marin authors
Home Is Where the Health Is In The Healthy Home Workbook, interior designer Kimberly Rider proves you can be a tree hugger and have great style BY SAMANTHA SCHOECH
M
ILL VALLEY NATIVE KIMBERLY RIDER wants you to know that having a green home can be a simple endeavor. It would be nice if we could all start from the ground up,
choosing materials and processes that are good for the earth and good for us, but most of us in Marin live in houses built when green was just a color and environmental design meant storing your lentils in old mayonnaise jars. But making improvements “is just a matter of educating yourself a little bit,” Rider says. Which makes her new book The Healthy Home Workbook ($25, Chronicle Books) a perfect place to start. Divided into sections by room and living area, the book offers simple suggestions for ways to start improving your home’s environmental report card. But it’s no lecture. Rider, who studied industrial design at the California College of Art and started its library on green building mate-
Northern California Gardening by Katherine Grace Endicott ($25, Chronicle Books) Now we can all have green thumbs. A San Francisco Chronicle columnist and expert gardener maps out the rewards of reaping what you sow, from flowers and fruits to herbs and vegetables throughout Northern California. This completely updated month-by-month guide is perfect for both the expert and the novice. Mostly Bob by Tom Corwin ($13, New World Library) When Tom Corwin’s golden retriever Bob passed away unexpectedly, Tom decided to write a letter as a tribute to his life. That letter, a moving story of man and dog, unconditional love, and the power of transformation, has become Mostly Bob. Bonnie Raitt has called it “a beautiful love story.” Enough Is Enough: Stop Enduring and Start Living Your Extraordinary Life by Jane Straus ($23, JosseyBass) Mill Valley author and speaker Jane Straus seeks to help readers break free of fear and let their inner truth inspire them. As actor Peter Coyote attests, “Jane Straus has written a deceptively simple book with profound implications. Read the first chapter, and if it does not prompt a deep desire to read the rest of the book and practice her procedures, you may be ready for sainthood and probably don’t need to eat either. This is truly a fine book.”
rials, is first and foremost a designer. She appears often on HGTV and
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“
Green design is connected to nature and the rhythms of the natural world. — KIMBERLY RIDER
”
owns Atmosphera Home, an interior design firm in San Rafael. She wants your green home to be beautiful—a sanctuary for the mind and spirit as well as a healthy place to live. “G reen design is connected to nature and the rhythms of the natural world,” she says. “It tends to be soothing and calming. Aesthetically, it’s very peaceful.” Which is not to say that she doesn’t have some pet peeves. “Carpet and paint are the biggest offenders,” she says. “P eople think they’re benign, but these cover large areas in our homes and continue to off-gas chemicals.” Synthetic carpets, she writes in her book, “are made from petrochemicals, tufted to backing materials of highly reactive compounds, colored with chemical dyes, and further treated
SANDRA BIRD DESIGNS
to be antistatic, antimicrobial, and stain-resistant.” Add the noxious glue used in installation, and it’s a powerful mix of yucky stuff. So, what to do? In each section Rider offers readers three alternatives: one for instant gratification, one for a more committed approach, and one for a truly healthy home. For the problem of toxic carpets, the simple solution is to open your windows for air and throw down naturalfiber area rugs to limit the amount of chemicals released into the air. Whether it’s a teardown or a throw rug, the
A DESIGN BUILD FIRM
book puts that choice in the hands of the reader. “These decisions are as mundane as grocery shopping, doing laundry, cleaning the house, hanging curtains, selecting clothes, and maintaining an average household,” Rider says; nonetheless, she adds, they are important. Like Rider’s designs, the book’s gentle approach is soothing and inspiring, confirming once and
240 Magnolia Avenue, Larkspur CA • 415.927.1171
for all that it is easy being green.
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W I N E CO UNT RY
Spring Family Fun Kid-friendly events beckon Marinites north BY KATHERINE MARTIN pril is a transitional month in Wine
A
touring the region with kids in tow. In fact,
Country—events are ramping up and
Wine Country is extremely kid-friendly and a
the weather growing warmer, but
great number of activities planned here are
there’s still relative quiet in the tasting rooms
meant to include children. Since spring is a
and restaurants. Though the idea of lounging
great time to plan family bonding time and
on a sun-soaked patio in May or June is be-
pull little noses out of TV oblivion, it’s no won-
guiling, think about heading up here now to
der so many events for young and old alike are
enjoy a few choice experiences before buses
on the roster.
and Buick rentals kill the vibe.
It starts with the Follies du Valle in
The land of wine and honey is often asso-
Yountville (707.944.1300; lincolntheater.
ciated with couples, i.e., grown-ups, but I’m
org) through April 2—a variety show written
often asked what it can offer people who are
and produced by Napa locals and including
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If outings for the offspring are not of in-
It’s family-oriented, benefits Lincoln Theater’s
terest to you, there are more adult-orient-
Student Outreach Program, and has the kind
ed events happening up here in April than
of friendly, hometown feel that so many vis-
one can shake a vine clipping at. At the
itors love to soak up. Looking for something
top of the Glam-O-Meter is the Sonoma
even more old school? In Santa Rosa on
Valley Film Festival (707.933.2600;
April 7, The Adventures of Curious George
cinemaepicuria.org) April 5 to 9, known to
(707.546.3600; lbc.net)—a play based on
attract glitterati like Robin Williams, Blythe
the vintage Margret and H.A. Rey books—will
Danner, and John Lasseter. Akin to Sundance
bring it all back and remind you why the mis-
and Cannes in quality of films shown at vari-
chievous monkey has been around for gener-
ous venues, the event is nonetheless known for
ations. It’s an effective way to prove to your
its relaxed feel and is an exciting chance to get
progeny that good times did exist before the
up-close and cozy with filmmakers, actors, and
almighty Xbox stole the scene.
movie lovers from around the globe. It’s Wine
Not to hype Wine Country as the new
Country, so you’ll be pairing your favorite films
Mayberry, but other traditional family fun
with a glass of stellar vino and perhaps sharing
awaits as well, such as on April 8 in Santa
a tipple with the next Scorsese or Kubrick.
Rosa, where you can meet the cartoonist-in-
Also on the festival circuit, the Bodega
residence at the Charles M. Schulz Museum
Bay Fisherman’s Festival (707.875.3704;
(707.579.4452, schulzmuseum.org) and
bodegabay.com) on April 8 and 9 is a great
take a look at the cartoons that made the late
way to bust cabin fever and enjoy a few days
Peanuts genius famous. For more interactive
of irreverent antics by the beach. Bathtub rac-
endeavors, head to the museum on April 27
es, fleet blessings, a llama parade—is it some-
and learn some cartooning tips in a drawing
thing in the water that makes these people
workshop. Either way, the museum is a blast
wacky? Whatever the case, the additional
for kids of all ages and will keep parents en-
food, music, wine, and crafts events will please
gaged, too. This is a unique case of modern
even those who thrive beyond the eccentric
kids and parents being given the chance to
environs of the coast.
enjoy something together. Take a deep breath and pinch yourself.
I could not close my column without tipping my hat to the raison d’être of this rural respite
Kids like Easter—I think it has something
I call home, so I encourage vinophiles to make
to do with the copious amounts of candy in-
their way to the April 8 Justin-Siena Wine
volved, but I can’t be sure. Indulge their inter-
Auction in Napa (707.255.0950; justin-siena.
est at Safari West animal park in Santa Rosa
com) for rare wine finds. This high school bene-
(707.579.2551; safariwest.com) on April 16
fit, held at Silver Oak Cellars in Oakville, is more
at the annual Hunt for the Hare event, which
than just a bake sale gone luxe—it is a known
includes a tour through the park in safari ve-
gem among wine collectors who have come
hicles searching for the “hare” (which is of
across extremely hard-to-find lots here. The kids
the human variety, dressed in a costume), an
of numerous known vintners attend the school,
Easter brunch, an egg hunt, and face paint-
hence its quality offerings.
ing. Safari West is a kick—there’s something
Spring has sprung and it’s time to get out
charming about seeing a wildebeest in Wine
and enjoy the beautiful environs of the North
Country—and I was embarrassed to admit
Bay and beyond. Whether you are traveling
how much fun this day sounded like for those
en famille or on a solitary hunt for adventure,
of us of the over-12 persuasion.
wine country is a no-brainer for April.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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PHOTOGRAPHY: BARTONE
skits by vintners, singers, dancers, and the like.
Pedersen Associates Landscape Architects www.pedersenassociates.com 24 H Street San Rafael CA 94901 415 456 2070
MARIN APRIL 2006
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PLAY
Communing with the Wind Kiteboarders take flight north of the Bay BY DEAN LATOURRETTE PHOTOS BARBARA RIES
WH E N TH E NORTH E RN CALIFORNIA winds
Bay Area is unique because of the number of
pick up, so do the emails, flying back and forth
places you can go to that are really close,”
in the early afternoons: “ What’s the wind do-
says Wolff. “ We have the spots in the bay—
ing? ” “ H ow hard is it blowing where you are? ”
Larkspur, Crissy Field, and all the way down to
“ Where are you going later today? ” The April-
Third Avenue in San Mateo. There’s the ocean
to-August kiteboarding season is on, and the
side, everything from Stinson and Bodega Bay
few hundred members of the Bay Area’s fledg-
up the coast to the Santa Cruz area down the
ling kiting community are plotting their after-
coast. And then we’ve got flat water out in the
noon’s escape—often from their offices.
D elta, where you have thermal winds during
D on’t tell the boss. In fact, Pierre Wolff of
the summer months.”
Sausalito (who goes by the kiteboarding moni-
These waters have spawned a kiting com-
ker “ P-Air” ) caught flak from his employer af-
munity, among which Mary G race E liz ondo
ter being quoted in a New York Times article
might be considered a matriarch. “ It’s j ust a re-
saying he was kiteboarding three to five times
ally fun group of people,” she says. “ It’s a fan-
a day (he claims he’d said three to five times
tastic community.” E liz ondo and her husband,
a week). “ Y ou can imagine my boss wasn’t ex-
Bob Smith, and their sons Alex, 13 , and Brian,
actly thrilled,” he admits.
11, live in Marin and kiteboard regularly as a
K iteboarding has taken off (all puns in-
family. “ If we didn’t all enj oy it, it would be
tended) in the Bay Area, picking up where
hard to get out to the beach,” says E liz ondo.
windsurfing left off. K iters say the bay and
“ Most families like to go to the beach on
surrounding waters offer some of the most di-
warm, calm days; we go when it’s windy, and
verse sailing opportunities in the world. “ The
when the sand’s blowing.”
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LESSONS
Much of kiteboarding’s appeal comes from
that goes for a long way.” Lessons are avail-
AL AME D A:
the rush it provides. “Kiteboarding is such an
able in Alameda through Boardsports and
Boardsports: 1 6 0 1 U niversity Ave., Berkeley;
addictive sport,” says Gabe Brown, editor of
Kite Wind Surf; Boardsports also has shops in
5 1 0 .8 4 3 .9 2 8 3 ; boardsports.com
Kiteboarding magazine and a Marin resident.
Berkeley and San Francisco. Boardsports runs
“You feel like you’re out there flying, and the
lessons right on the beach; Kite Wind Surf uses
amount of ground you can cover, it’s just liberat-
jet skis to run the water portion of its course
CO Y O TE PO I NT, SAN MATE O :
ing. You’re out there with no fuel smells, no ex-
offshore. Lessons are normally split between
Wind Over Water: Third Avenue, San Mateo;
haust, no noise, and you’re just cruising around
land, where students learn the skill of flying
by yourself, or with your buddies.”
the kite, and water, where the board comes
Kite Wind Surf: 4 3 0 Westline D r., Alameda; 5 1 0 .5 2 2 .9 4 6 3 ; kitewindsurf.com
6 5 0 .2 1 8 .6 0 2 3 ; wowkite.com Helm of Sun Valley: 3 3 3 N. Amphlett Blvd.,
Kiting is a complex skill to master, and
into play. “It makes such a big difference work-
Kitopia: Sherman I sland, Rio Vista;
it’s best to start small. Experienced kiters rec-
ing with a trainer kite on land, gaining that
2 0 9 .4 8 0 .2 0 6 7 ; kitopia.biz
ommend that beginners get lessons; Crown
confidence and all the stuff that you learn just
Edge Kiteboarding School: 9 1 6 .7 7 7 .2 2 9 9 ;
Beach in Alameda is the favored spot to learn.
playing with the wind,” says Kite Wind Surf
“Alameda is a good place for beginners to go
co-owner Emily Ruoss.
San Mateo; 6 5 0 .3 4 4 .2 7 1 1 ; helmsports.com
deltawindsurf.com/ kitesurfing.html Sheldon Kiteboarding: 7 0 7 .3 7 4 .3 0 5 3 ; sheldonkiteboarding.com
to, and it’s really not far for Marin residents
For those who’ve mastered the basics,
Launch Kiteboarding: launchkiteboarding.com
at all,” says Elizondo. “They’ve got a safe envi-
the most popular spots to kiteboard in Marin
ronment because there’s the downwind beach
County are Larkspur Landing and Stinson
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MARINMAGAZINE.COM
2/27/06 9:24:10 AM
Beach. “The premier spot in Marin if you have
for people to remember—all kiters, not just be-
some experience is probably Stinson,” says
ginners—are kite control and kite respect.”
USEFUL RESOURCES iKitesurf: ikitesurf.com – Wind
kiter Albert Tommei of Mill Valley. “It’s got re-
When the day’s winds die and the boards
ally clean, wide beaches and it’s not crowd-
are out of the water, however, it’s the camara-
reports and spot descriptions
ed. The wind direction against the shore is
derie that kiters treasure. “The big thing about
throughout the country, including the
the right direction to get in and out and ride
the sport is it seems like no matter where you
Bay Area, as well as subscription-
the waves.” Marin kiters also frequent Crissy
go to kite, you’re always having a beer with
based web and phone alert reports.
Field in San Francisco and make regular trips
your buddies afterwards,” says Brown. “It
out to Sherman Island, near Rio Vista in the
brings together people of all ages and back-
Kiteboarding magazine:
Delta area.
grounds, because we all kite.”
kiteboardingmag.com – Informative website with resources for both be-
Kiteboarding can be risky, but kiters say ad-
Wolff agrees. “We’re all having this adren-
vances in equipment make “kitemares” mostly a
aline experience from the ride, so it develops
thing of the past. “A lot of the original pioneers
this emotional bond. When we come off the
in this area, we took the beatings so that other
water, everyone is talking about the great rides
Bay Area Kiteboarding: bayareak-
people wouldn’t have to down the road,” says
we just had. And there’s nothing like talking
iteboarding.com – Local kiteboarding
Kiteboarding editor Brown. “Kites these days
about something everyone loves in order to
site with news and classifieds.
are a lot safer. Still, the most important things
create bonds that last.”
ginner and advanced kiters.
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MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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LOOKING BACK
Marin, In the’60s
Those who were there tell it like it was BY JIM WOOD PHOTOS JEFFERSON RICE
I
F YOU WANT TO KNOW ABOUT THE ’60S IN MARIN, talk to Nancy Skinner, a Mount Tamalpais historian. “For Marin, the hippie invasion began when Fantasy Fair and Magic Mountain Music Festival was held up on Mount Tamalpais,” says Skinner, who lives in San Anselmo and is known as “the Grand Dame of Mount Tam” due to her extensive knowledge of the mountain. “It was June of ’67, the ‘Summer of Love,” she says, “and the KFRC-
sponsored rock concert included bands like Jefferson Airplane, the Doors, Country Joe and the Fish, and the Fifth Dimension.”
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The concert drew more than 20,000 young people, says Skinner, and “once they discovered Mount Tam, they began ‘living off the land,’ which often meant breaking into homes in Larkspur, Ross, and Kentfield for food and clothes, even pots and pans.” It wasn’t all negative, though, says Skinner. “Sure, there was some drinking and a little pot-smoking, but in general everyone was well behaved.” Belvedere historian Beverly Bastion gained a somewhat similar impression of the 60s in Marin as a result of observing her three children, all of whom graduated from local high schools during the decade. “The 1962 graduation at Tam High was traditional,” says Bastion. “Girls wore caps and gowns over their skirts or dresses. Boys
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wore coats and ties, and everyone’s hair was combed and looked neat.” According to her, the sunny afternoon ceremony was held out-
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doors at the Little Theater and moms and dads all appeared proud. “But by 1966,” says Bastion, “things had changed. Graduation was in the Redwood High gymnasium. It was hot and stuffy. In many cases only one parent attended. Most of the girls didn’t wear makeup and many had protest buttons pinned on their caps and gowns.” By 1969, Bastion had a son finishing high school. He “wore his hair long, he had a stringy beard and his friends called him John the Baptist,” she says. When graduation arrived, it wasn’t even on the family agenda. “I wasn’t there,” she says. “My son said he wouldn’t be ‘caught dead at such a ceremony.’” In Sausalito of the ’60s, characters of epic proportions seemed to gravitate toward Kayla Kahn, a single mom and recent arrival in town. Her acquaintances included poets Gary
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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before
after
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MARIN APRIL 2006
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headed up a local “anti-digit-dialing” group.
come over Marin Headlands from Highway
Alan Watts. They all hung out at Sausalito’s
“We loved the sound of ‘Edgewater 2-4142,’”
101,” recalls Griffin. “Then it would head
notorious “no-name bar,” although Kahn was
says Kahn, “so why allow it to be changed to
north past Stinson Beach and Bolinas, cut-
not a drinker. “We met while protesting San
332-4142? How blah could you get?”
ting down mountain ridges and filling in val-
Quentin’s execution of Caryl Chessman,”
One of Kahn’s fondest memories is a New
leys.” The freeway was part of a larger plan
Kahn says, “and stayed together throughout
Year’s Eve spent with Hayden and Silverstein
that Griffin says would have led to homes for
the ’60s.” Kahn’s other free-spirited compa-
at the “no name.” “Sterling’s doctor had in-
about 150,000 people and a yacht marina in
dres included former prostitute and activist
sisted he stop drinking,” Kahn says, “so he
Bolinas Lagoon.
Margo St. James, madame/restaurateur/pol-
spent the night puffing on a big, long pipe—
“In the early 1960s, many people—ranch-
itician Sally Stanford, and actor/author
what no one but us knew was that the pipe
ers, landowners, and planners—were pro-
Sterling Hayden.
was full of hashish.”
growth,” he says. “To them, it was simply
“It was a time when everyone was involved
The ’60s in Marin were also a time of local
‘the American way.’” But another element
in something they believed in,” says Kahn. She
political activism, and that’s an arena where
of Marin’s population was making its pres-
was an early protester against America’s in-
you would have found Dr. Martin Griffin. “A
ence known. “They weren’t necessarily anti-
volvement in Vietnam and, in a far lighter vein,
four-lane freeway was proposed that would
growth,” says Griffin. “They simply favored
ABOVE TWO LEFT PHOTOS COURTESY OF MT. TAMALPAIS STATE PARK
Snyder, Allen Ginsberg, Shel Silverstein, and
1/2 HORIZONAL
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good land-use planning.” By the end of the decade, Griffin and a Marin organization he’d assembled under the auspices of the National Audubon Society had acquired some 30 strategically located ranch parcels and tidelands totaling nearly 1,600 acres and costing more than $1.5 million (in 1960s dollars). As a result, West Marin looks pretty much now as it did then. “I know at the time, a lot of developers and real estate investors hated me—and many of them were my patients,” Griffin says. “But I have no regrets.” Such were the 1960s in Marin: A time of coming together for some and pulling apart
Forty-year-old Photos Found! For magazine stories, photos are usually the easier part; writing is the challenge. But “Marin in the ’60s” reversed those roles. The article practically wrote itself, but, as for the vintage photos—they were, well, an entirely different story. After getting apologies from sources like the Marin History Museum, Anne T. Kent California Room, and the Mill Valley Historical Collection, we felt a mild panic set in. And mild became wild when requests to the photo libraries of the San Francisco Chronicle, Marin IJ, and the Pacific Sun met with similar responses. But a June 16, 1967, copy of the Pacific Sun contained photos of the previous weekend’s “Fantasy Fair and Magic Mountain Music Festival,” with credits naming one “Jeff Rice.” Scouring the San Francisco and Marin phone
books proved fruitless, but the Sonoma edition had a ”Jefferson Rice” living in Sebastopol. “Hello,” answered Rice in a flat voice. “Is this Jeff Rice, the photographer?” “This is Jefferson Rice, and years ago, when I attended Redwood High, I did some photography.” “In June of 1967, did you shoot the Magic Mountain Music Festival?” Long pause. “Yes. I mean yes, I remember doing that.” The nearly 40-year-old photos accompanying “Marin in the ’60s” were found in the attic of Rice’s Sebastopol home. In May, Marin Magazine will look back on “Marin in the ’70s.” If anyone has great photos—let us know.
for others; an era of change.
1/2 HORIZONAL
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GO
Easy Camping Outdoor options for those who would rather not pitch a tent BY M .L. LATHAN HIKING
DEEP INTO THE FOREST, pitching a tent, and filtering the spring water for pathogens
has long been touted as one of America’s favorite pastimes. For some, including myself, the idea of starting my own fire from twigs and sleeping in the wilderness exposed to predators of all siz es elicits utter anxiety and dread. Therefore, when the kids begged us to take them camping, we did some research on the new “luxury camping” and decided to give it a try. Inspired by our daughters’ obsession with cheetahs—the fastest mammal on the planet—we booked a tent cabin at Safari West in Santa Rosa, a family-oriented animal preserve with 3 1 heated, furnished, Africanthemed cabins complete with attached bathrooms. The girls chatted excitedly as headed north on 101. “What if a hippo kills us? ” asked our fouryear old. “Can the j eep go faster than a cheetah? ” asked our seven-year-old, likewise concerned with the q uestion of our survival. I hated to burst their bubble, but I told them that we wouldn’t be seeing any hippos, lions, or anything that could hurt them. However, I mentioned the different types of antelopes—springbok, kudu, and eland—that would be there, the likes of which we had only seen stuffed at San Francisco’s California Academy of Sciences. Also on the viewing menu
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were giraffes, zebras, lemurs, and lots of exotic
duced to Gideon Mlungisi Bendile, our own
tively offer peanuts to two gentle porcupines.
birds from around the world.
personal African historian and performing art-
After a tasty dinner of teriyaki chicken, sliced
This private zoo was established back in
ist. As we bounced over boulders in an open-
beef, green beans made with bacon, penne
the ’70s, when Peter Lang purchased his first
air jeep from the Korean War (purchased on
pasta and Caesar salad, we negotiated our
three eland to help him get rid of the poison
eBay), Gideon, one of the founders of the ’80s
way through the dark to find cabin number
oak on his property. Slowly it has grown into
group Zulu Spear, sounded out the African
14 and settled into our warm and cozy digs.
a 400-acre microcosm of African wildlife. Once
names of the animals we spotted, enunciat-
We drifted off to sleep listening to the sounds
his wife Nancy, a former ornithologist from the
ing them in the clicking tones of his native lan-
of East African crown cranes and ring-tailed
San Francisco zoo, entered the picture, she
guage from Soweto in Johannesburg.
lemurs screeching for their mates across the
brought along a rainbow of rare birds and they opened the place to the public.
To ensure the girls would encounter the
Sonoma Serengeti. While this was not a typical
animals firsthand, we signed up for the “be-
tent pitching experience, we will look back on
After checking into our comfortable tent
hind-the-scenes” tour, and they were able to
it as the weekend we camped with cheetahs.
cabin, we met our tour group and were intro-
feed carrots to 18-foot-tall giraffes and tenta-
707.579.2551, safariwest.com
1/2 HORIZONAL
ADVERTISER
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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Marin’s Finest Collection of Boutique Hotels Escape, Explore, Experience Whether it's a moonlit kayak trip on Richardson Bay, a sunset cruise on the Bay, or a relaxing spa treatment, our collection of boutique hotels can enhance your hotel stay with one of our signature packages that offers personalized activities and services.
Other luxe camping options For a more serene experience, check out the new Treebones Resort in the southern end of Big Sur. Up to 16 yurts are scattered across a picturesque coastal 10-acre site. The spacious
Acqua Hotel • 555 Redwood Highway, Mill Valley, CA 94941 • 415.380.0400 Mill Valley Inn • 165 Throckmorton Avenue • Mill Valley, CA 94941 • 415.389.6608 Waters Edge Hotel • 25 Main Street,Tiburon, CA 94920 • 415.789.5999
yurts have redwood decks looking out over the Pacific or into the mountains. E ach is heated, and furnished with table, chairs, and queen beds with linens; some have gas fireplaces.
Book online at www.MarinHotels.com or call to make a reservation.
Restrooms are located at the central main
These hotels are managed by Joie de Vivre Hospitality. www.jdvhospitality.com
lodge. D on’t worry about lighting that camp-
Guestroom Photo: Cesar Rubio
fire in the morning; there’s a self-service waffle breakfast, and for dinner, resident chef Chris D orsey serves up a barbecue at the lodge.
Look Better Feel Your Best
Bring your own wine, as they don’t have their liquor license yet. This property lends itself to daylong hikes, beach walks, and whale watch-
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Wednesday evening and Saturday appointments available with aesthetic nurse Bonnie Edwards, R.N.
son. 877.4 24 .4 787, treebonesresort.com Farther south near the warmer waters of Santa Barbara, E l Capitan Canyon has 26 classic safari tents on raised wooden platforms. Tents have electricity and either a queen or two double beds, plus linens and towels. Y ou may want to bring warm slippers or boots to walk to the
Dr. Winfield treats the full range of skin problems, from acne to skin cancer to rare dermatological conditions. Dr. Winfield, a Tiburon resident, is a family dermatologist specializing in adolescent acne and cosmetic dermatology.
Julie Anne Winfield, M D (415) 388-0660 • 239 Miller Avenue, Suite 8, Mill Valley
76
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2/27/06 2:49:43 PM
1/3 SQUARE
ADVERTISER nearby bathroom and showers. The Canyon market and deli provides groceries as well as breakfast (including lattes), lunch, and barbecue kits for dinner—including s’mores. Activities range from hiking or biking the canyon to exploring the nearby beach to lounging by the heated pool. For a fee, ocean kayaking, horseback riding, or carriage rides can be arranged. Tent cabins are $135 from May through October, $115 off season. 866.352.2729, elcapitancanyon.com Another relatively new lodge has added a brand-new “custom camping” option. Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite offers furnished and fully set up regular tents. Imagine sleeping under fragrant pines and stargazing through mesh “ceilings.” The tents include air beds, sleeping bags and liners, pillows, towels, toiletries, and a lantern to get to the newly built bathhouse for custom campers only. Since this is a national park, open fires are a no-no, but there’s a restaurant with surprisingly gourmet fare and a great wine list, as well as an outdoor dining area and beer garden. All other amenities at Evergreen Lodge are available to campers. Rates are $45 to 75 a night for one to three people. 209.379.2606, evergreenlodge.com
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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A View From Above
Marin County as seen from an ultralight aircraft from 1,500 feet above the ground PHOTO ESSAY BY STEPHEN LEFKOVITS/MARINIMAGES .COM
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ART
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Local voices connect to the global village STORY & PHOTOS TIM PORTER
John Battelle
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L I FE
OMEWHERE in Marin County
S
tail parties symbolized the heady days of the
one tracking service—stems from the social na-
people are blogging right now.
Internet boom in San Francisco. More recently,
ture of people, from their desire to belong to
They might be neighbors, friends,
Battelle wrote The Search, a best-selling book
something larger than themselves, says Battelle.
or even relatives, and they are
about Google, and started Federated Media,
“Whether you’re talking about the house-
taking advantage of easy-to-use
a Sausalito company that sells advertising on
wife writing about her school board or the am-
Web tools that allow everyday people to pub-
blogs. He is also the author of Searchblog, a
ateur photographer who’s got a Flickr stream,”
lish their words or their images as effortless-
technology report he writes from his home of-
he says, “it’s sort of about creating your own
ly as they send email. The power of the press,
fice in Kentfield.
sense of identity in a way that can be pointed
the old saying went, belonged to those who
“There’s something about having this me-
to that says, ‘I’m part of this web, this ecolo-
owned one. No more: Anyone can have a press
dium that’s so direct it’s almost like music,”
gy, this community. I’m putting my stake in the
now—and plenty of people do.
says Battelle. “You’re in communication with
ground.’ And this is something that we as human beings are sort of wired to do.”
At least 8 million Americans have created
an audience. And if you’re a professional, or
blogs (some estimates reach 20 million). That’s
take what you do very seriously, it can … liter-
6 percent of the nation’s adult population. Who
ally put food on your table.”
Battelle draws an analogy from the phone book. As a child, when he first saw his fami-
are these people? Are bloggers all, as the head
Battelle used Searchblog as a research tool
ly’s number in the white pages, “it meant that
of CNN once disparagingly said, just “a guy sit-
for his book. “I was tackling a very big, very
we existed. And somehow I was very proud
ting in his living room in his pajamas”?
complicated subject that had lots of implications
of that fact.… There is a thing about being in
Hardly. Once the provenance of the geeky,
beyond technology,” he says. The blog gave him
the index, so to speak, being up and online,
the pierced, and the self-absorbed, blogs are
the opportunity to connect with readers who
and being findable, being found, that is deeply,
now mainstream. They are written by business
“would point me to sources I didn’t know, cor-
deeply human.”
people, academics, librarians, and scientists.
rect my stupid mistakes, and enrich my under-
Name a profession and someone is blogging
standing of the topic.” Battelle says he found
about it. More significantly, the combina-
himself in “a conversation with a lot of people”
Photo-Blogging, from Marin and Beyond
tion of cheap scroll-and-click publishing soft-
who “pointed me in new directions.” About 10
A good place to find a Web community is on
ware and the inherent desire of human beings
to 15 percent of his book he wrote on the blog
Flickr, a photo blog that is part scrapbook, part
to communicate has given rise to an online
first, and “the big ideas that frame the book …
anthropology exhibit, and all about sharing
world of virtual communities—people drawn
come straight from the blog.”
and conversation.
to like-minded others from all over the planet.
Mike McLaughlin illustrates Battelle’s point.
Of the 70 million photos now hosted on
Marshal McLuhan was right. The global village
A Mill Valley business consultant, McLaughlin
Flickr and sorted into categories by “tags”—
exists, but it was blogged, not televised.
started a blog last year after he and popular
California, dogs, sunsets, that sort of thing—
Here in Marin County’s corner of that vil-
business writer Jay Levinson wrote the book
tens of thousands feature Marin. More than 60
lage, writers, photographers, and entrepre-
Guerrilla Marketing for Consultants; he says the
people belong to a group dedicated to photo-
neurs of all demographic stripes push their
blog lets him “continuously update the ideas
graphs of Marin.
words, photos, and ideas out onto the Internet,
we had put in the book.”
Corte Madera technology consultant Helen
some for money, some for fun, some for per-
A big benefit of having the blog, says
Ojha is one of those people. She took up pho-
sonal growth. All receive a common benefit:
McLaughlin—in addition to attracting more than
tography a couple of years ago when her hus-
an eager, supportive audience that extends far
10,000 readers—is that it makes him “much
band was ill, making images of the expansive
beyond the geographic boundaries of Marin.
more sensitive to and aware of things that are
landscapes visible from her home on the upper
happening in the areas I’m writing about. There
shoulder of Ring Mountain. Her son told her
John Battelle: Searching for Conversation
has been a personal benefit for me because I’m
about Flickr.
Few people typify the wired generation more
tune with the things around me.”
more current in everything that I do, more in
“I found a very interesting community of people who have very different perspectives on
than John Battelle. He founded the Industry
The appeal of blogging—the number of
the world that I’ve come to appreciate through
Standard magazine, whose rooftop cock-
blogs doubles every five months, according to
their photography,” she says. “… We encour-
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“
I’m drawn to the beauty of decay and death... What I love are the darker spaces — ELISABETH FELDMAN
Elisabeth Feldman and son Sam Bowman
process. There are all kinds of photographers:
er dimensions of our lives that we didn’t have
people who just like to take pictures and people
time to pursue earlier.”
who consider themselves professionals.”
Ojha’s connections on Flickr extend from
Plagemen puts up fewer photos on Flickr
Nova Scotia to Shanghai, relationships she’s
than Feldman (who says she’s “obsessed”) or
formed by following the links from one photog-
Ojha (who says, “I try to get a daily sunrise or
rapher to another. “You say, ‘I’d like to see who
sunset shot”), but she likes the artistic seren-
that person is,’ and then you find yourself in
dipity of the site. “It’s more experimental and
Brazil with somebody who is in the indigenous
it’s less polished. I really enjoy searching for
peoples’ project and they’re publishing their blog
things. I really like found photos.”
as well as their photo stream. It’s a way to see very personalized views of the world.”
Moms Who Blog
Elisabeth Feldman belongs to the same
Marla Swoffer, a northern Marin mom with
Marin Flickr group as Ojha, but the resem-
three young ones, formed the Marin Flickr
blance ends there. Ojha’s mountaintop sunrises
group a year ago. “I always thought I was go-
celebrate light and openness. Feldman’s for-
ing to leave Marin and never come back,” says
ested close-ups of rusted buildings and winter
Swoffer, who grew up in San Rafael. “… I was
gardens pay homage to darkness and detail.
unappreciative. But as I’ve gotten older I ap-
“One of my nicknames is Apocalyptic Pixie,”
preciate the beauty, the scenery, and every-
says Feldman. “I’m drawn to the beauty of de-
thing in the county. I thought it would be neat
cay, death. You won’t see the beautiful vistas
to capture some of both Marin’s beauty and its
that you’ll see in a lot of other people’s Marin
eccentricity in the Flickr group.”
pictures.… What I love are the darker spaces.”
Swoffer also has a blog that focuses on her
Feldman has more than 1,500 photos on
life and on Christian issues; she describes its
Flickr—about the same number as her 18-year-
personality as a “mix between C.S. Lewis and
old-son, Sam Bowman, does. They often go out
Jerry Seinfeld.”
shooting together, expeditions that give Feldman an opportunity to participate in Sam’s life. Sarah Houghton
”
age each other down a path of exploring oth-
The blog, says Swoffer, who has a graduate degree in journalism from UC Berkeley, allows
“In the last year, we have been tight bud-
her to integrate two passions—mothering and
dies. It’s been wonderful,” she says. “And it’s
writing. “I’ve always known since high school
been mostly because of photography and
that I love to write. I wanted to keep that up,
Flickr. It’s parental joy I never anticipated.”
but I wanted to stay at home with my kids, so
Laura Plageman is a bit different from many
it’s a great outlet for my intellectual desires.”
Marin photobloggers in that she studies pho-
Typically Swoffer blogs during “afternoon
tography at the California College of the Arts
nap time” but has “stayed up all night” at the
and has her own website outside of Flickr. Like
keyboard and, yes, in keeping with the dismis-
her fellow bloggers, though, she sees Flickr as
sive comment by the CNN boss, has blogged in
a welcoming community, one that also includes
her pajamas. “Being a stay-at-home mom, I’ve
her boyfriend, Ammon Haggerty, her shipmate
blogged in just about every kind of attire,” she
on the SS Vallejo, the refurbished 127-year-old
says. “I’ve even blogged in bed before.”
ferryboat they live on in Sausalito.
Good things can come to those who blog—
“My website is more about presenting myself
thanks to the medium’s community effect.
as an artist,” Plageman says. “This is who I am.
When novelist Martha O’Connor’s Kentfield
[Here] I have more concern about what I am
home was surrounded by floodwater during
putting out there. Flickr is more of a democratic
the New Year’s eve storm, the online world
Helen Ohja 86
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responded. The water sank O’Connor’s family
way to get new information to people, and the
cars, did tens of thousands of dollars in dam-
people posting the information don’t have to
age to the house, and—especially devastating
have Web skills.”
for a mother of 8-year-old twins—destroyed
The blog is part of the library’s transforma-
most of her children’s toys. Fellow writers,
tion into a digital as well as a print resource.
readers of her blog, and fans of her novel con-
“We’re trying to devote about 10 to 15 percent
tributed money to buy the children gifts.
of our budget to maintaining an online collec-
O’Connor began blogging two years ago
tion,” says Houghton. “E-books. Downloadable
in order to answer questions from readers
audio books.…We’re trying to reach out to
about her book Bitch Posse. Over time, the blog
people who don’t necessarily come into the
morphed from being factual (about the book)
different libraries.”
to informational (literary news) to personal.
Blogging comes naturally to her, says
“Now,” says O’Connor, “I see it as a way read-
Houghton, because it is “doing what librar-
ers can see who I am as a person, the person
ians do best, which is share information with
behind the book.”
as many people as possible.”
Why would anyone who writes for a living—
Houghton’s own blog, Librarian in Black,
an arduous enough process on its own—want to
focuses on “new resources, new tools, new ser-
spend more time writing a blog? In a word, con-
vices, new ideas for the library,” and its read-
nections. “People said the world doesn’t need
ers are librarians who don’t have the time or
another blog,” says O’Connor. “But I think now
inclination to visit the 300 websites Houghton
more and more [writers] are blogging, especial-
culls for information.
ly people who spend a lot of time on their own. It’s a great way to connect to people.”
Marla Swoffer
And its name? “I always wear black,” she says. “It’s been my entire wardrobe since I was a kid. I figured, well, that pretty much sums up
The Librarian in Black
who I am. Patrons will always come into the li-
It’s probably not surprising, since so many
brary and say, ‘Where’s that librarian? The tall
Marin writers are online, that a Marin librar-
blond one that wears black all the time?’ So,
ian is also blogging. In fact, Sarah Houghton,
that’s just where I fit within the world, and I
the county’s official e-services librarian, writes
might as well embrace it.”
two blogs: the library’s and her own. Houghton started the Marin County Free Library Blog for two reasons: “It’s a real easy
Tim Porter is editor-at-large for Marin Magazine and author of First Draft, a blog about journalism and newspapers. Laura Plageman and Ammon Haggerty
BLOGGER URLS H ere are U RL s and screen names for the bloggers mentioned in the order they appear in the story: John Battelle Searchblog: battellemedia.com/ Mike McLaughlin Guerrilla Consulting: guerrillaconsulting.typepad.com/ Helen Ojha Rongzoni, Flickr: flickr.com/ photos/ 6 4 9 2 8 8 0 9 @ N0 0 / Elisabeth Feldman HurleyGurley, Flickr: flickr.com/ photos/ hurleygurley/ Sam Feldman Kodama, Flickr: flickr.com/ photos/ kodama/ Laura Plageman PhotoLP, Flickr: flickr.com/ photos/ photolp/ Ammon Haggerty Qaswa, Flickr: flickr.com/ photos/ q aswa/ Marla Swoffer Swirl, Flickr: flickr.com/ photos/ swoffer/ ; marlaswoffer.com/ Martha O’Connor Bitch Posse: marthaoconnor.blogspot.com/ Sarah Houghton: Librarian in Black: librarianinblack.typepad.com/ Marin County Library blog: marincountyfreelibrary.blogspot.com/
Martha O’Connor
Mick McLaughlin MARIN APRIL 2006
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H OM E D E S I G N
A View From Above
A Home of Their Own Mar in County architects create their personal spaces When they design for a client, architects shape their work to the customer’s taste and preferences. When they design for themselves, however, architects can, within the boundaries of economic constraints and the demands of the site, create their dream houses. Three wonderful Marin homes reflect the vision and spirit of the architects who built them and now live in them.
BY P. J. BREMIER
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LAGOON LIVING subtle color and material palette give the in-
no views. We discovered that by eliminat-
terior an expanded sense of space. Outdoors,
ing overgrown vegetation and orienting the
privacy on the small lot is maintained through
house to a diagonal view, we had a really
thoughtfully designed landscaping.
great spot.
Who has influenced your design? AS: Growing
which describes a kind of pyramidal mass-
up in Wisconsin, I was very influenced by Frank
ing that did not appeal to us. Therefore we
Lloyd Wright. I lived in a Prairie-style house de-
set back both the upper and lower stories to
signed by a disciple of Wright’s until I was seven
the maximum setback required, expanding
years old. My uncle studied and worked with
the yards, leaving more room for landscaping,
Mies (van der Rohe) and so I also had a very
and achieving better massing. Although it con-
early exposure to his buildings in Chicago.
forms completely to the code, folks still believe
Another challenge was the zoning code,
SEID EL AND HOLZMAN PHOTO: BA RBARA RIES; HO ME PH OTOS: RUS S ELL ABRAHAM
we must have gotten all sorts of exceptions to
How does your home reflect your lifestyle?
the code to do it.
We both work and so we use the house as a refuge and for entertaining. Life on the lagoon
Were there any surprises in the process?
ALEXANDER SEIDEL and Stacy Holzman, de-
centers around the water, where we swim,
The biggest surprise was how long it took to
sign and managing partners, respectively, of
kayak, row, and sail competitively, all right from
complete the design. We wanted every inch
the San Francisco architecture firm Seidel/
the dock in the backyard. The dock is in a way a
considered, designed, and resolved, and that’s
Holzman, had three goals when they planned
front porch for us where neighbors, young and
time-consuming.
their 2,600-square-foot Belvedere Lagoon
old, swim or paddle by and stop to chat or have
home: “to seamlessly integrate the indoors and
a refreshment. We spend a lot of time in the
What pleases you most about it now? The
outdoors; to create dramatic spaces that were
kitchen, cooking or sitting at the island there,
house is a wonderful framework from which
functional; and to be able to afford to build it,”
or in the master bedroom, which is a sort of
to view our wonderful and constantly chang-
says Seidel.
aerie with views across the lagoon all the way
ing environment. Watching the sunrise over
to downtown San Francisco.
Angel Island color the clouds or the water
The clean, modern lines of the house and
move and catch the light and reflect patterns
the extensive use of natural materials express
What challenges did you encounter in the
into the house; seeing the waterfowl hang
tension while taking advantage of the site’s
design? Our friends down the block told us
out on the lawn or in the water or dropping
water views and a warm southern exposure.
they used to refer to our lot as the “dog lot”
straight down from the sky to fish; and seeing
Vertical volumes, expansive glazing, and a
because it was small and thought to have
the crows open clams on the patio.
its owners’ desire for modesty and lack of pre-
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RELAXED MODERN RURAL equate for a simple lifestyle and personal use,
provals required, since the property was locat-
and to keep the cost within a minimal budget.”
ed in the Bay Area Tidal Waters and Petaluma
The house also needed to respect the site, cap-
Wildlife Preserve. The approval process took
ture the view, and incorporate passive energy
over 12 months.
design.
What has influenced your design?
did you incorporate into the house? A spe-
Throughout my career, I have been most in-
cial design feature was to use passive means
fluenced by ongoing study and appreciation
of climate control to temper the house in sum-
of local rural vernacular buildings—whether
mer so as not to require air-conditioning and
those buildings are located in rural Minnesota,
to limit the heat load in winter. Techniques
where I was raised, or in California, or on the
included building the house into the hillside
E ast Coast, or in Italy, Spain, or E ngland. The
to use the earth to naturally cool in the sum-
RON SUTTON, A PRINCIPAL in Sutton Suz uki
simplicity of design and forms, the honest use
mer and retain heat in the winter; orienting
Architects of Mill V alley, says his mentor was his
of materials, and wonderful proportions asso-
the house away from extreme sun exposures;
first employer after graduating from architecture
ciated with these buildings have always been
capturing summer breez es from the Petaluma
school. “ H e had a notable small practice in rural
very appealing to me.
River; and designing around existing large oak
Minnesota,” says Sutton, “ and his timeless advice was, ‘ When in doubt, return to simplicity.’”
trees for shade in the summer.
In what ways does your home reflect your
Sutton drew on the advice when he de-
style? The honest yet sophisticated use of ba-
What surprised you most about the process
signed his own 2,200-square-foot family home
sic construction materials, such as exposed
of designing your own home?
on almost eight rural acres in Novato. It’s a
concrete and exposed steel, are reflective of
H ow easy it is to make decisions for clients
contemporary interpretation of the authen-
my style, as is basic black in clothing style.
when designing their home and how difficult it
tic farm structures that are historical to the
The use of these materials in a creative and
was to make the same decisions when it came
Lakeville– Petaluma River V alley area and it re-
contemporary design, as well as incorporat-
to my own home.
lies heavily on natural materials such as stone,
ing items like 200-year-old hand-hewn beams,
concrete, steel, and wood beams.
adds a curiosity to the design and style.
What pleases you most about it now? It pleases me most to experience how, as time
Sutton’s approach was to “ to keep the design simple, the expression of the structure
What were challenges in either the site or
passes, the house and structure continues to
and materials honest and straightforward, and
the design? The maj or challenge of the site
grow and fit naturally into the site as if it has
the siz e of the building spaces minimal but ad-
was to obtain the numerous government ap-
been there for years and years.
90
RON SUTTON P H OTO: BAR BARA RIES; HO ME PH OTOS: CLAUD IO S ANTINI
What special features or new technologies
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NEW SPIN ON OLD-STYLE SHINGLE For their young family, the Holschers chose a modern interpretation of shingle vernacular
the garden and view, thus blending the interior and exterior.
and connected the interior and exterior spaces in two directions so the views from the back
What special features or new technolo-
courtyard continue through the center of the
gies did you incorporate into the house?
house to the front garden and water view.
Some of the special features we incorporated
They also wanted an “open plan with an inte-
into the residence were the hydronic heating,
rior flow, a lot like the lofts we have designed,”
which we love, and the 21-foot-long NanaWall
says David Holscher.
door, which opens completely to the deck. We use this door in its open position quite often
Who has influenced your design?
because it makes us feel like we’re in our gar-
DH: Architects such as Andrea Palladio, Louis
den even when we’re in front of the fireplace.
Kahn, Bernard Maybeck, William Wurster, and currently James Cutler.
What surprised you most about the process of designing your own home? The process was
in Holscher Architecture, adhered to their pro-
In what ways does your home reflect your
quite fun. We probably went over 30 design
fessional design philosophy when they built
lifestyle? The open floor plan and flow be-
iterations over the course of eight years. The
their 3,500-square-foot home in Tiburon on a
tween the spaces keeps the spaces of the house
surprise was we ran out of money and had not
lot with gorgeous bay vistas.
connected while still creating differing spatial
budgeted quite enough, which is quite similar
experiences. This reinforces the informal way
to a lot of our clients’ experience.
They strive “to engage the interior of a residence to the view, light, and surrounding gar-
we live while also encouraging intimacy.
den as much as possible,” says David Holscher.
The NanaWall (a large glass wall that
“We try to understand the history of a vernacu-
opens entirely by sliding or folding) connects
The morning light, and currently everything
lar and then interpret this history.”
the living room and dining room interior to
works.
92
What pleases you most about it now?
P H OTOS : BARBARA RI ES
PHOEBE AND DAVID HOLSCHER, principals
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Myanmar Days STORY & PHOTOS KLAUS LARSEN
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J OU RNE Y
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Above: Offerings of candles light the way at the Shwedagon Pagoda; above right: interior of temple in Bagan; lower: monk catches a ride into town. Opposite page: lower left: young man tries his luck at a local pond; right: female monks study scripture at a monastery.
96
“DOES THIS LONGYI MAKE ME LOOK FAT?”
ny’s words were lost to us, but we understood
I joked as I was being fitted in the sarong-like
the universal language of the kindness we
traditional dress and shirt for our Mingalar-
were receiving.
Hsoon, a Buddhist food ceremony that bless-
Myanmar, known as Burma until 1989, has
es a marriage. It was only our second day in
largely eluded the tourist trail due to its po-
Myanmar and our local travel consultant had
litical condition. The country has been ruled
orchestrated the wedding blessing when she
since 1962 by an ironfisted military regime
heard we would arrive as newlyweds.
known for human rights abuses. Myanmar’s
We sat on the teak floor of the monas-
most famous “dissident,” Daw Aung San Suu
tery, surrounded by saffron-robed monks who
Kyi, won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991 after
chanted as we poured water slowly from our
her party swept the national elections, but the
tiny silver teapots into small metal cups, a rit-
ruling military refused to step down and in-
ual symbolizing the beginning of a long and
stead put Suu Kyi under house arrest, and she
happy marriage. The meaning of the ceremo-
has remained so, on and off, ever since.
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It was with this understanding that we wanted to see the “real” Myanmar, and with our pres-
“All respect, All suspect” —GOVERNMENT SIGN AT CHECKPOINT
ence bring to the people a message of hope and support. The decision to visit was fraught with
identity. Myanmar’s temples, culture, and cui-
moral and ethical dilemmas (our tourist money
sine are distinctly its own.
might support the corrupt government), but we
My wife and I began a whirlwind adven-
decided to keep our spending as local as pos-
ture lasting three weeks and 900 miles with
sible. What we found were some of the kindest
our trusty driver, “Jim” (not his real name).
and most genuine people in the world.
Jim was our translator, historian, good friend, and guide, navigating the sometimes-treacher-
A Country of Its Own
ous dirt roads clogged with oxcarts, dogs, and
Bordering India, Thailand, China, and Laos,
bicycling villagers.
Myanmar borrows from and intermingles with
Our first stop was Inle Lake, a beautiful,
its neighbors, yet its isolation strengthens its
shallow stretch of freshwater 13 miles long
LEARN MORE Resources on Myanmar freeburma.org freeburmacoalition.org irrawaddy.org amnesty.org aappb.org High-end Hotels in Yangon kandawgyipalace.com (highly recommended) The Strand Hotel Yangon: No. 92, Strand Road, Yangon, Myanmar
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Above: a young girl models a hat for sale by the seashore at Chaungtha Beach; above right: rowing with the traditional leg method; lower: boy inscribing marble
and seven miles wide in a region known for
and from village to village. At dawn, the locals
cool weather, tea, and delicious fish. Inle Lake
came out to witness the pilgrimage, some set-
also supplies the rest of Myanmar with fresh
ting out in boats, others thronging in a great
hydroponic produce grown in the lake atop
rush to stand onshore.
great mounds of grasses supported by bamboo
98
stakes. These watery produce gardens provide
To Bagan and Beyond
a rich array of fruits and vegetables to feed the
Leaving Inle Lake, we traveled overland to
hungry residents of the capital, Yangon.
Bagan, one of Southeast Asia’s two most fa-
While at Inle Lake, we were fortunate to
mous ancient religious cities ( the other being
witness the annual P haung Daw Oo P agoda,
Angkor Wat in Cambodia) . Bagan sits on a
a religious festival featuring fleets of long
vast plain, surrounded by some 2,5 00 temples
boats—propelled by perhaps 80 rowers ( who
whose ornate, rounded spires rise above the
use their legs to power the oars) —that trans-
trees along the great Ayeyarwady River as far
port four sacred Buddha statues across the lake
as the eye can see.
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“Our Mission is to Fight against Faults and Defects”
coast for some long-awaited beach time. We
—GOVERNMENT SIGN
Indian Ocean well known to locals and just be-
decided on Chaungtha, a beach town by the
Lower left: delicious cuisine; right: young monk sitting in a monastery studies traditional texts.
ginning to be developed. We purposely stayed We woke early to catch the sunrise among
clear of Ngapali, a beautiful but more touristy
the ancient giants and had the monuments
beach region to the north, in order to soak up
mostly to ourselves. Thousand-year-old images
more local culture. We weren’t disappointed.
depicting daily life were intricately painted on
Within hours of arriving, we met three kids
the walls, so close we could have touched them
selling handwoven hats, and these children
(we didn’t). They told stories of rivers teeming
became our beach buddies. For three days our
with fish and forests brimming with monkeys, el-
little friends would visit us and we would go
ephants, and figures from Buddhist lore.
swimming, pretending to be sea monsters and
The inland heat of Myanmar can be oppressive, and we were happy to reach the west
tossing them about in the surf. Their smiles will remain with us for years to come.
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GA LLERIES
Art, Out in the Open Napa’s di Rosa Preserve calls for a spring fling with art and nature BY ANNE CRUMP RAY
From March 14 through the end of April, Robert Green Fine Arts in Mill Valley, in conjunction with the Los Angeles–based Sam Francis Foundation, hosts a special exhibition of paintings by the late abstract expressionist Sam Francis. Robert
RT LOVERS WITH A YEN FOR A RURAL ESCAPE needn’t go far to find one of
Green has represented the inter-
the Bay Area’s most enchanting venues for contemporary art. Tucked among the
nationally acclaimed Francis since
vine-draped hills of Napa along Carneros Highway sits a 200-plus-acre art and
1969, but new regulations governing
wildlife refuge opened to the public in 1997 by Rene di Rosa and his late wife,
the foundation that manages his es-
Veronica, an artist. And while the di Rosa Preserve is a rewarding destination
tate require that it cease participat-
any time of year, spring is when it’s at its most spectacular.
ing in commercial ventures. This is
years, amassing a collection that includes more than 2,300 pieces. The di Rosas established the preserve as a means of sharing their collection as well as its beautiful setting; they wanted it to be a place where the public could come and enjoy looking at art, the natural landscape, and the abundance of wildlife (including resident peafowl). Today the artworks—nearly 1,500 on display at any given time—are housed in three gallery buildings, including the former di Rosa residence, and scattered across the grounds of the former wine estate, and the preserve offers an assortment of guided tours to help guests make the most of their visit. The collection is eclectic, encompassing every type of medium and representing a variety of art movements and styles. The unifying criterion is that all of the work is by California artists—specifically artists with links to the Bay Area.
The glass chapel, a stained glass structure
the last time works entrusted to the foundation will be available for sale. “Whatever doesn’t sell will be returned to the foundation,” says gallery owner Green. He will continue to represent Francis’s work in sales by private collectors. Francis was born in San Mateo and spent much of his life in Marin. He is buried in Olema. Robert Green Fine Arts, 154 Throckmorton Ave., Mill Valley, 415.381.8776,
that overlooks the
rgfinearts.com; 11–5 Tues–Sun or by
Bay Area art, representing more than 900 artists,” says the pre-
sculpture meadow at
appointment; closed Mon.
serve’s Judy Daniels. Among the notables are Robert Arneson, Squeak
the di Rosa Preserve.
“We have the world’s largest private collection of San Francisco
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P H OTOS C OURTESY OF TH E D I ROSA P RE SERVE
Rene di Rosa, a former journalist and winemaker, has been collecting art for nearly 50
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Carnwath, Bruce Conner, Jay DeFeo, Roy
the former di Rosa residence, and the sculp-
meadow. (The preserve also hosts an annual
De Forest, Mark di Suvero, Paul Kos, Bruce
ture meadow.
member picnic on the grounds in June.)
Nauman, Manuel Neri, Nathan Oliveira, and
“Most people come for the overall expe-
In addition to tours, the di Rosa Preserve
William C. Wiley. Di Rosa adds new pieces to
rience—the art, the trees, the lake, the pea-
presents a variety of educational programs,
the collection each year, scouting in artists’
cocks,” notes Daniels, so the introductory
artist talks, and conservation projects each
studios, MFA program exhibitions, and local
tour is by far the most popular: “It’s struc-
year. On Thursday, April 27, Alan Rath will
galleries for works by emerging artists that
tured like a winery tour, touching on all parts
give a talk in the Gatehouse Gallery at 6:30
capture his eye and imagination and that
of the preserve.”
p.m. in conjunction with his exhibit in the gal-
promise to enhance the collection’s reputa-
Beginning in April the preserve also of-
lery’s temporary exhibition space; reserva-
tion for exciting and dynamic California art.
fers outdoor-oriented tours, including ex-
tions are required, and admission is $10 gen-
Visitors have a number of avenues for
cursions beyond the groomed areas of the
eral, $5 members. Call for details on other
exploring the preserve. The Gatehouse
grounds for wildlife viewing, as well as spe-
special programs and events, tour times and
Gallery, the de facto welcome center at the
cialized themed tours developed around
topics, and reservations; updated activity in-
entrance, features a combination of art-
specific topics or sections of the property.
formation is also available on the website.
works from the permanent collection and
Perhaps the most luxurious way to ex-
The di Rosa Preserve offers both locals
temporary exhibitions that rotate month-
perience the preserve is the three-hour pri-
and out-of-town visitors a splendid way to rev-
ly. (From March 11 through April 29, the
vate tour. Available for groups of up to 25,
el in two of the region’s greatest treasures: its
temporary space showcases new works
it is customized to serve the group’s specif-
landscape and its rich artistic heritage. It’s a
by Oakland-based electronics artist Alan
ic interests, whether that means relaxing on
whole different world right in our backyard.
Rath.) Here guests can sign up for one of
the grounds, viewing the collection, or some
Di Rosa Preserve, 5200 Carneros Hwy.
the many daily tours, ranging from an hour-
combination of the two. Better yet, the pri-
(Hwy. 121), Napa, 707.226.5991, dirosapreserve.
long introductory overview to a more in-
vate tour affords the opportunity to picnic
org; 9:30–3 Tues–Fri, by appointment Sat,
depth two-hour tour of the Main Gallery,
in the olive grove overlooking the sculpture
closed Sun–Mon.
1/2 HORIZONAL
ADVERTISER
333A Caledonia Street, Sausalito • (415) 331-8272 • www.studio333.info • Monday – Saturday: 10-6pm, Sunday: 12-6pm
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Robert Beck Gallery California Plein Air Paintings (1900 to Contemporary)
Asian Antiques
Maynard Dixon
Red Rock and Cactus
Oil on Canvas
Open House Friday March 24th, 5-8 pm Champagne & hors d’oeuvres will be served. 222 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., San Anselmo, CA 94960
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(415) 456-7898 (415) 456-7314 fax
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CA L E NDA R
APRIL 2006 MUSIC April 2 Girls, Moms and Me Lynne Jackson and Mike Palter perform classics from the Great American Songbook and other contemporary hits on piano, bass, and vocals. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.9600, 142throckmortontheatre.com
April 2 & 4 Melvin Chen The renowned piano soloist plays Ravel and Rachmaninoff. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.479.8100, marinsymphony.org
April 7 John Trudell will perform with Bad Dog at the Larkspur Café Theatre on April 11 and 12.
THEATER Thru April 16 Old Wicked Songs In search of a new way to connect with his music, an American prodigy goes to Vienna. Marin Theatre Company (Mill Valley). 415.388.5208, marintheatre.org
Thru April 23 Humble Boy Reminiscent of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, this play by Charlotte Jones explores love, longing, and death in the English countryside. The Barn Theatre (Ross). 415.456.9555, rossvalleyplayers.org
Thru April 23 The Rivals A cast of comedic characters— including the famously misspoken Mrs. Malaprop—look for love. Performed by A.C.T. at Geary Theater (SF). 415.749.2228, act-sf.org
April 25–May 21 Fame Becomes Me A semi-autobiographical musical from actor Martin Short and the creators of Hairspray, Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman. Presented by Carole Shorenstein Hays at the Curran Theatre (SF). 415.512.7770, shnsf.com
Peter Frampton Classic rock by the legendary musician, whose album Frampton Comes Alive! became the best-selling live recording of all time. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
April 8 Sweet Honey in the Rock Spirituals, hymns, blues, and more by the all-female a cappella ensemble. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
April 29
April 8
Fall Down/Get Up Naomi Newman, co-founder of A Traveling Jewish Theatre, transforms into a bevy of fascinating characters in this one woman show. Thoughout the evening she shares stories, songs, dances and jokes that offer wisdom in dealing with life’s ongoing challenges. Osher Marin JCC (San Rafael). 415.444.8000, marinjcc.org
Birthday Gala for Mozart Celebrate the classical musician with an evening of chamber music and opera scenes by West Marin Music Festival. Dance Palace (Point Reyes). 415.663.1075, dancepalace.org
COMEDY
April 9 Monk’s Music Trio Jazz great Thelonious Monk’s compositions are the inspiration for this San Francisco-based trio. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.9600, 142throckmortontheatre.com
April 24
Thursdays thru April
April 11 & 12
A Woman of No Importance The Porchlight Theatre Company presents a staged reading of Oscar Wilde’s play. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.9600, 142throckmortontheatre.com
Comedy Slam at Sam’s Debbie Campo of the San Francisco Comedy College hosts an evening of stand-up at Sam’s Cafe. No cover charge or minimum (Tiburon). 415.435.4527, sfcomedycollege.com
John Trudell Discover the music of acclaimed Native American poet and recording artist Trudell, in performance with Bad Dog. Larkspur Café Theatre (Larkspur). 415.924.6107, larkspurcafetheatre.com
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April 13–15
April 23
April 6–9
Lorraine Hunt Lieberson sings Mahler The mezzo-soprano and Bay Area native performs Mahler, Webern, and Ives. SF Symphony (SF). 415.864.6000, sfsymphony.org
Chiara String Quartet Four young musicians play Hayden, Shostakovich, and more. Mount Tamalpais Methodist Church (Mill Valley). 415.381.4453, chambermusicmillvalley.org
Tchaikovsky Perm Ballet & Orchestra Natalia Makarova performs the classic Swan Lake. Presented by Cal Performances at Zellerbach Hall (Berkeley). 510.642.9988, calperfs.berkeley.edu
April 20
April 29
Matt Haimovitz Bach and other selections from the solo cellist’s new CD. Osher Marin JCC (San Rafael). 415.444.8000, marinjcc.org
Zakir Hussain A program of both Hindustani (North Indian) and South Indian drumming led by the tabla master himself. Presented by Cal Performances at Zellerbach Hall (Berkeley). 510.642.9988, calperfs.berkeley.edu
April 7
April 30 & May 2
April 13–16
Marin Symphony Chorus Powerful vocal versions of compositions by Beethoven, Handel, and Vaughan Williams. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.479.8100, marinsymphony.org
LINES Ballet The local dance troupe presents its home season, featuring the company premiere of a new choreography by Alonzo King. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts (SF). 415.978.2787, ybca.org
April 21 & 22 Kronos Quartet with Matmos and Walter Kitundu An intriguing collaboration with experimental musicians. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts (SF). 415.978.2787, ybca.org
April 22 Andreas Vollenweider Funk beats and pancultural music by the Swiss harpist. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
DANCE
April 14 & 15
Thru April April 22 Audra McDonald Show tunes, pop, cabaret, and more. SF Symphony (SF). 415.864.6000, sfsymphony.org
Printz Dance Project An evening of musically driven contemporary dance at Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
San Francisco Ballet Enjoy four mixed repertory programs; check site for specific dates and choreographies. War Memorial Opera House (SF). 415.865.2000, sfballet.org
Cambodian Stories Eiko and Koma, known for their “theater of movement,” collaborate with young artists from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, for an evening of dance and painting. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts (SF). 415.978.2787, ybca.org
All Seasons
A C A T E R I N G C O M P A N Y 201 Seminary Drive • Mill Valley, CA • 94941 tel: 415.383.9355 • www.allseasonscatering.com
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April 15
Contemporary Fine Arts (CFA)
Hanson Gallery
Odissi Vilas Discover the ancient dance of two lineages, performed by the Marinbased company. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
Ongoing exhibits. 20 Greenfield Ave, San Anselmo. 415.457.8847, cfagallery.com
Artwork by JalinPol, thru April. 669 Bridgeway, Sausalito. 415.332.1815, hansongallerysa.com
GALLERIES
Edith Caldwell Gallery Still-life paintings, contemporary tapestries, and objets d’art by local as well as nationally aclaimed artists. 819 Bridgeway, Sausalito. 415.331.5003, edithcaldwell.com
Marin Society of Artists
Gallery Bergelli
O’Hanlon Center for the Arts
Below the Surface Selected works by Duncan Regehr, thru April 29. 483 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur. 415.945.9454, gallerybergelli.com
Kinetics: Art that Moves A juried show featuring artwork with dynamic components, April 2–28. 616 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.388.4331, ohanloncenter.org
Ongoing Exhibits. Marin Art and Garden Center, Ross. 415.454.9561, marinsocietyofartists.org
MARIN
Art Brokers Tjasa Owen and others featured in limitededition prints. 247 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley. 415.380.4100, artbrokersinc.com
Gallery Route One Art Works Downtown
Artworks from an upcoming book by Andrew Romanoff, plus art by Laura Lynch and Mary Mountcastle, thru May 7. 11101 Hwy One, Point Reyes Station. 415.663.1347, galleryrouteone.org
Robert Beck Gallery
Realism An exhibition of works curated by Carole A. Levy, thru April 24. 1337 Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.451.8119, artworksdowntown.org
Claudia Chapline Gallery
Garzoli
Robert Green Fine Arts
Painted chairs and watercolors by Stephen Haines Hall, April 7–30. 3445 Shoreline Hwy, Stinson Beach. 415.868.2308, cchapline.com
Work by Edwin Deakin, Grace Hudson, William Keith, Edward Bruce and others. 930 B St, San Rafael. 415.459.4321, garzoligallery.com
Works on paper by artist Sam Francis, on display thru April 30. 154 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.381.8776, rgfinearts.com
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Plein air paintings by Maynard Dixon and others, thru April. Gallery open house on March 24. 222 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo. 415.456.7898
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Hang Art and Hang Art Annex New paintings of the San Francisco skyline by Carolyn Meyer, April 4–May 1 at Hang Art. Flight/Patterns A group show, April 4– May 1 at Hang Art Annex. 556 & 567 Sutter St, 415.434.4264, hangart.com
Jack Hanley Gallery Artwork by Adam McEwen, on display April 8–29. 395/389 Valencia St, 415.522.1623, jackhanley.com
John Berggruen Gallery Ongoing exhibits including On Certain Pictures by Diane Andrews Hall, April 6–30. 228 Grant Ave, 415.781.4629, berggruen.com
Detail of oil on canvas, Rainbow Play Systems, 2004, 96” x 48”, by Brett Reichman, Gallery Paule Anglim.
Sausalito Art Collection
Caldwell Snyder Gallery
Ongoing exhibits. 589 Bridgeway, Sausalito. 415.339.9250, sausalitoart.com
Recent paintings by Sharon Booma, April 6–21. 341 Sutter St, 415.296.7896, caldwellsnyder.com
Spin Gallery Aquilones Works by Suzie Buchholz, April 13–May 18. 7 Mark Dr, San Rafael. 415.499.7640, spingallery.net
Fraenkel Gallery Works by Richard Misrach, on display thru April 29. 49 Geary St, 415.981.2661, fraenkelgallery.com
Studio 333 Original artwork by Anna Efanova, Shannon Grissom, Rich Sigberman, and Richardson Bay Artists. 333A Caledonia St, Sausalito. 415.331.8272
Tiburon Fine Art Kathleen Dunne, Barbara Lawrence, Stevan Shapona, Paige Peterson, and others. 84 Main St, Tiburon. 415.435.5999, tiburonfineart.com
William Lester Gallery It’s Spring Again! Flowers in the Landscape and Still Life A group show of floral paintings, thru May 1. 11101 Shoreline Hwy, Point Reyes Station. 415.663.9365, williamlestergallery.com
Gallery Paule Anglim All Consuming Identity Oil paintings and colorful drawings by Brett Reichman, plus New Work, a series of painted photographs and sculptures by John Beech; April 5–29. 14 Geary St, 415.433.2710, gallerypauleanglim.com
George Krevsky Gallery Ongoing exhibits including Lawrence Ferlinghetti, John Sloan, Glenna Putt, Milton Avery, John Haley, Dorothy Winslade and more. 77 Geary St, 415.397.9748, georgekrevskygallery.com
John Pence Gallery Recent oil paintings by William Bartlett and Adam Forfang, April 6–29. 750 Post St, 415.441.1138, johnpence.com
Meyerovich Gallery Modern European masters including Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Marc Chagall, and Joan Miro. 251 Post St, 415.421.7171, meyerovich.com
Paul Thiebaud Realist paintings of the urban landscape by Suong Yangchareon, thru April 15. 718 Columbus Ave, 415.434.3055, paulthiebaudgallery.com
Rena Bransten Gallery Recent drawings by Panayiotis Michael and sculptures by Tommy Stockel; thru April 8. 77 Geary St, 415.982.3292, renabranstengallery.com
Takada Gallery Recent Paintings Acrylic and digital print on canvas and wood panel by Susan Goldsmith, April 4–29. 251 Post St, 415.956.5288, takadagallery.com
Gregory Lind Gallery Alignments Artwork by Mel Prest, April 5–29. 49 Geary St, 415.296.9661, gregorylindgallery.com
MUSEUMS MARIN
SAN FRANCISCO Hackett-Freedman Gallery ArtHaus About Change New paintings by Jan Blythe and About Face A group exhibition of portraiture and figurative works; April 4–June 30. 411 Brannan St, 415.977.0223, arthaus-sf.com 106
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Works from the Studio An exhibition of bold paintings by Robert De Niro, Sr., plus recent paintings of moored boats by Paul Resika; thru April 29. 250 Sutter St, 415.362.7152, hackettfreedman.com
Bolinas Museum Seductions of the Eye: Works of Art in the Collection of Sean Thackrey Egyptian pieces and other eclectic artwork, thru April 23 (Bolinas). 415.868.0330, bolinasmuseum.org MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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Falkirk Cultural Center Annual Juried Exhibition of Marin Artists Thru May 27 (San Rafael). 415.485.3328, falkirkculturalcenter.org
Marin Museum of the American Indian
Don’t miss our season finale concerts:
Ravel & Beethoven
On the Red Road A pictorial essay on Plains Indians, thru April. Miwok Park (Novato). 415.897.4064, marinindian.com
BAY AREA Asian Art Museum The Three Gorges Project: Paintings by Liu Xiaodong Figurative works spotlight issues of environmental degradation in an industrializing China; April 7–July 16 (SF). 415.581.3500, asianart.org
April 2 & 4, 2006 7:30pm Alasdair Neale, conductor Melvin Chen, piano RAVEL, orch. NEALE RAVEL RACHMANINOFF
Minuet from Piano Sonatine Piano Concerto in G Major Symphony No. 2
Concerts sponsored by Montecito Plaza Shopping Center and The Price Family Dealerships.
COPIA What’s Rising? Decorative Breads by Ciril Hitz Art meets dough at this exhibit of “bread sculptures,” on display thru May 1 (Napa). 888.512.6742, copia.org
The Contemporary Jewish Museum The Art of Living: Contemporary Works from the Israel Museum Featuring dynamic photographs and videos produced by Israeli artists, April 4–July 30 (SF). 415.344.8800, thecjm.org
de Young
April 30 & May 2, 2006 7:30pm
International Arts and Crafts The first major exhibition to trace the arts and crafts movement from an international perspective, thru June 18 (SF). 415.863.3330, thinker.org/ deyoung
Alasdair Neale, conductor Marin Symphony Chorus HANDEL Zadok the Priest VAUGHAN WILLIAMS Serenade to Music BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 9
Legion of Honor After the Ruins, 1906 and 2006 Powerful images of the city, then and now; thru June 4 (SF). 415.863.3330, legionofhonor.org
Museum of Craft & Folk Art The Sensuous Curve: Scandinavian Design Then and Now Inspirational and functional furniture on display; thru April 23 (SF). 415.775.0991, mocfa.org
All concerts at Marin Center, San Rafael. Pre-concert conversations begin at 6:30pm. Tickets $24, $44 and $57, students half price.
415.499.6800 www.marinsymphony.org
SFMOMA Surreal Calder Over 40 works by Alexander Calder and other surrealists; March 3–May 21 (SF). 415.357.4000, sfmoma.org MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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FAMILIES/KIDS MARIN
April 5 Wow! What a Century! From the Wright Brothers to Mick Jagger, this musical by the Pushcart Players is packed with American history. Presented by Youth in Arts at Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.457.4878, youthinarts.org
April 15 Egg Hunt Follow the White Rabbit on an Alice in Wonderland–inspired egg hunt, full of life-size characters from the Lewis Carroll book, craft making, face painting, and more (San Rafael). 415.485.3327, falkirkculturalcenter.org
April 26 A Children’s Rainforest Odyssey Take young ones on a magical journey through a tropical rain forest. Presented by Youth in Arts at Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.457.4878, youthinarts.org
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April 8 3rd Annual Spectra Ball A symphony of theatrical, dance, circus and musical performances, all on three floors highlighted with extraordinary art exhibits and installations (SF). 415.561.7802, artsfestsf.org
April 8 Oh Yuck!?! Children get the “dirt” on worms. For children 5 to 7 years old. SF Zoo (SF). 415.753.7073, sfzoo.org
April 11–May 7 Slava’s Snowshow Created by Russian performer Slava Polunin, this fantastical performance combines clowning, visual images, and a great big snowstorm. Golden Gate Theatre (SF). 415.512.7770, shnsf.com
April 21 Stories on the Beach Celebrate Earth Day’s Eve with an evening reading by Ana Carla Rovetta as she retells seasonal myths and stories of the spring season through the creatures of the night (Point Reyes). 415.663.1200, ptreyes.org
new independent films, wine, and food. 707.933.2600, cinemaepicuria.org
EVENTS April 5–9 Sonoma Valley Film Festival Mingle with filmmakers while enjoying over 75
April 7–15 Grand National Rodeo, Horse and Stock Show Dust off your cowboy boots and get ready to wrangle at the Cow Palace (SF). 415.404.4111, grandnationalrodeo.com
April 12 Sausalito Art Walk Browse works by over 25 local artists in a streetwide open house on Caledonia (Sausalito). 415.331.8272, studio333.info
April 15–16 and 22–23 Cherry Blossom Festival Check out taiko drummers, Japanese folk dance, and Japanese American culture. Japantown (SF). 415.563.2313, nccbf.org
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LECTURES/WORKSHOPS
April 16 Easter Parade & Spring Celebration Outdoor fun for the whole family—alfresco dining, pony rides, face painting, and an Easter Bonnet Contest. Union Street (SF). unionstreetshop.com
April 3 & 6 Tim Russert One of Washington’s most influential journalists tackles issues of our changing world. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
April 20–May 4 San Francisco International Film Festival Nearly 200 films from over 50 countries are shown at this annual celebration of world cinema (SF). 415.561.5000, sffs.org/ festival/
April 6
April 21–23
April 8
WoodWorks Show Enjoy three days of professional demonstrations, new products on display, and the opportunity to mingle with woodworking experts. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
Daughters of the Dream An evening with Susannah Heschel and Yolanda King, daughters of famous fathers who walked side by side in the Alabama civil rights March. Osher Marin JCC (San Rafael). 415.444.8000, marinjcc.org
Marin Stories: Tom Killion The Point Reyes artist shares slides at this free speaker series. Boyd Gate House (San Rafael). 415.454.8538, marinhistory.org
April 21–30 Bay Area National Dance Week A ten-day festival of free dance classes, open rehearsals, and performances. Various venues (SF). bayareandw.org
April 11 Daniel Handler The popular author of children’s novels (a.k.a. Lemony Snicket) is interviewed onstage. Herbst Theatre (SF). 415.392.4400, cityboxoffice.com
April 24 Plumpjack/LINK Golf Classic Perfect your swing and help raise money for cancer research. Lake Merced Golf and Country Club (Daly City). 650.755.2239
April 28 David Sedaris The “literary rock star,” author of best sellers such as Barrel Fever and Holidays on Ice, speaks at Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
April 28 ZooFest 2006 Go wild at the Zoological Society’s annual fundraising dinner and dance. SF Zoo (SF). 415.753.7073, sfzoo.org
NATURE WALKS/TALKS Ongoing
April 29 International Beer Festival Bring a designated driver and make a night of it. Over 200 beers from across the world. Fort Mason (SF). sfbeerfest.com
The Butterfly Zone: Plants and Pollinators Learn about these interesting and beautiful insects. Conservatory of Flowers (SF). 415.666.7001, conservatoryofflowers.org
April 9 April 29 Great Chefs of Marin Discover local chefs while raising money for people with developmental disabilities at this black-tie event. Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company (Novato). 415.472.2373, lifehouseagency.org
Travels Through Time and Space Commemorate the 100th anniversary of the 1906 quake with a visit to the faults and folds of the Point Reyes Peninsula (Point Reyes National Seashore). 415.663.1200, ptreyes.org
April 30
April 22 & 28
Opening Day on the Bay Sail Celebrate the first official day of the sailing season aboard a replica of a San Francisco scow schooner. 510.452.9261, savesfbay.org
All Dressed Up and A Long Way to Go Search for colorful winter shorebirds preparing to leave for their Arctic nesting haunts (Novato). 415.663.1200, ptreyes.org
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You’re Invited! Marin Arts Salon Come celebrate the eclectic and exciting art scene in Marin County every Thursday in May. The Marin Arts Salon will feature some of Marin’s most exciting emerging artists and performers and showcase their work in their respective mediums. Presented by California Closets and Marin Magazine, in association with ArtSFest 2006 - The Bay Area’s Third Annual Celebration of the Arts (May 4-29).
Showcasing Marin Artists Each salon will feature an intriguing blend of: • Performance (Theater, Dance, Circus, Comedy) • Visual Arts (Painting, Sculpture, Photography) • Music (Acoustic, Classical, Jazz; curator About Records) • Design (Fashion, Jewelry, Furniture)
Cocktails & Hors d’oeuvres FREE Admission When Thursdays, May (4, 11, 18, 25) Time 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Where California Closets showroom, 610 DuBois St., San Rafael
www.marinmagazine.com/events
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F LAVOR
A FAMILY AFFAIR Dining out with kids BY ERIKA LENKERT
UST SIX WEEKS after our daugh-
J
of crayons and a color-in kids’ place mat, a chil-
Chain Reaction
ter was born, my husband and I
dren’s menu topping out at $5, and tables that
After being directed by more than one mommy
clinked glasses over a leisure-
adjoin, alive with the high-pitched chatter of ju-
to California Pizza Kitchen in Corte Madera,
ly meal at a destination restau-
nior diners. Dipsea Café, 2200 Fourth St., San
we ruefully agreed to give the franchise route
rant in Sonoma. We marveled at
Rafael, 415.459.0700
a chance. It takes only a few minutes to figure
car seat—at the foot of the table and get on
The Pier of Peers
with our accustomed style of dining. Anyone
Part of the Lark Creek Restaurant group,
rary shrine to the single-serving pizza, every-
who has kids already knows what came next:
Yankee Pier in Larkspur is housed in a histor-
thing is kid-friendly, from our server who knelt
a hasty exit and the end of restaurant life as
ic 1800s building and plays to both sides of
to kid’s-eye-level to take our order to the mul-
we knew it. But shortly afterward, we discov-
the customer fence. White tablecloths, Sinatra
tipage children’s menu that doubles as a color-
ered that while we did need to make a lifestyle
tunes, and a small, thoughtful wine and beer
ing and games book to the lids and straws on
leap, many Marin restaurants cushion the fall
list speak to the adult patron. White butcher
all the drinks (which come with free refills).
by catering to kiddies and their escorts.
paper over the tablecloths, galvanized metal
Glass partitions between comfy booths keep the
out why this particular version is such a hit. Within the bright, clean, and contempo-
pails full of crayons, and a color-in menu of
noise to a constant hum, decor is cheery, and the
Breakfast of Champions
classics like noodles with butter and parmesan,
internationally inflected menu provides substan-
Even before parenthood we liked San Rafael’s
PB&J, and grilled hot dogs with fries are plus-
tial diversity, from fancy salads to appetizers of
Dipsea Café. It’s newer, cozier, and less trod-
es for smaller guests.
tortilla soup and diced chicken in lettuce cups. I
den than the original but all-too-popular Mill
As a new parent working off pregnancy
can’t overlook that the lettuce in my large Waldorf
Valley location (another go-to family spot). The
weight, I consider fresh and healthful menu
salad is tired, and runners brought both of our
large white room with blue-and-yellow ging-
choices an essential component of dining out.
courses within two minutes of each other. Only
ham tablecloths, plenty of sunlight, and con-
Yankee Pier more than obliges, with an exten-
after I swallow these realities can I appreciate
stant clatter from the open kitchen is the perfect
sive selection that includes ceviche specials,
that the sausage pizza and Singapore spring rolls
neighborhood breakfast joint. Here it’s de
sexy salads, and six choices of fish, prepared
actually taste good, and as a friend pointed out,
rigueur to arrive in sweats, slide into a booth,
grilled, pan-sautéed, or blackened. Alas,
are consistently and dependably so—two charac-
and feast on hearty portions of American break-
they’re pitted against soul-satisfiers like fried
teristics that in the uncontrollable world of par-
fast classics. Parental pleasers include a 7 a.m.
calamari, beer-battered fish-n-chips, and tuna
enthood, can, in a pinch, be worth their weight in
opening—prime time for perky babies accom-
melts. Yankee Pier, 286 Magnolia Ave., Larkspur,
gold. California Pizza Kitchen, 347 Corte Madera
panied by bleary-eyed moms and dads—a side
415.924.7676
Town Center, Corte Madera, 415.945.0401
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P H OTO: JOH N STOREY
how easy it was to place her—asleep in her
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The Outdoor Art Club presents GARDENS, ART & ARCHITECTURE XII
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Susan Martling, M.D. 770 Tamalpais Drive • Suite 301 • Corte Madera Town Center
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2/27/06 9:40:05 AM
Stunning Quality Teak at Blushingly Low Prices
Second Chance Rescue’s 5th Annual
Sunday, April 23, 2006, 4:00pm Mill Valley Community Center 180 Camino Alto, Mill Valley
The best doggone party of the year is the Canine Wine & Dine, all proceeds benefitting Second Chance Rescue and helping save thousands of dogs’ lives. Come enjoy a great evening of wine, music, food, fun, fantastic silent & live auction items, and a chance to win a brand new Vespa Scooter!
Benches Etc. is proud to feature Ventana Fine Outdoor Furniture
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Furniture Made from Recycled Wood
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MARINMAGAZINE.COM
2/27/06 9:52:18 AM
M ICROCL I M ATE
LOVING LARKSPUR Magnolia Avenue combines Main Street with restaurant row BY JIM WOOD PHOTOS TIM PORTER ALTHOUGH EVERYTHING LOOKS NORMAL along Larkspur’s Magnolia Avenue—a bank here; a fire station, library, and city hall there; shops and cafes in between—something strange is going on. Look up and you’ll see neon signs for “Blue Rock Inn” and “Rainbow Market,” even though neither has been open for years. “That’s because our original downtown is on the National Register of Historic Places,” says town historian Nancy Curley. “It has to do with Larkspur being ‘a typical small California town at the turn of the century,’ and we’re trying to keep it that way.” That apparently sits fine with nearly everyone in this quaint Marin community of just fewer than 12,000 residents—housing is skyhigh, and yet reminders of an earlier era are everywhere you look.
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MARKETING MAKES A DIFFERENCE
Another Magnolia Avenue piece of nostalgia is the neon sign that calls attention to the Silver Peso saloon, which in the early 1900s was a blacksmith shop and has been a popular local tavern since the 1930s. More neon spells out “Lark,” the name of a 1930s movie house that closed in 2000 due to lagging attendance, but reopened after residents, led by civic-minded Bernice Baeza, raised more than $400,000 in an effort to recapture some of the city’s past. Larkspur seems like a very “together” city, but not geographically. On a map it looks like an inkblot in a Rorschach test. “We go from redwood-filled canyons of Mount Tam’s foothills across Highway 101 to the barren land out by San Quentin,” says Carol Dahlman, the city’s customer services officer. “People often give us their address just to find out what city they live in.” In fact, much of neighboring Greenbrae, including the lucrative Bon Air Shopping Center, lies within the city of Larkspur. “And we share a police department with Corte Madera,” adds Dahlman. “Other than that, we do everything ourselves.” Although its first home was built in 1852, the city of Larkspur wasn’t chartered until 1908. It was named by the wife of its developer, Charles Wright, after she spotted wildflowers growing in a nearby field. Fortunately, the British-born Ms.Wright wasn’t much of a botanist, as Larkspur has a more melodious ring than what was actually in bloom—lupine.
Previous page: Lark theater; clockwise from upper left: Steve Berg and Robin Critelli, owners of Gallery Bergelli; Blue Rock Inn above Left Bank restaurant; outdoor seating outside Rulli’s; Silver Peso neon sign; street scene on Magnolia; Left Bank Restaurant. Sidebar photo: Bob Federighi and Marilyn Rich.
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SIDEBAR PHOTO: PATRICK CARNEY
“Right now,” says Pacific Union’s Marilyn Rich, “Larkspur is the favorite for young families.” According to Rich, it’s not just walking to good schools and a charming downtown, but the town’s climate. Says Marilyn’s daughter, Whitney Rich, who works with her and lives in Larkspur, “Young buyers are drawn to the town’s sunny weather.” And if a recent transaction is indicative, they’re also attracted by Rich’s marketing. “I’m a believer in ‘staging’ a home,” says Pacific Union’s top Marin producer. “Not just rearranging furniture and hanging pictures, but sometimes partially remodeling a home before marketing it.” Rich relies heavily on Bob Federighi of Robert Federighi Design to accomplish her transformations. The recent sale, a Larkspur home built in 1895 had been remodeled only slightly before the owner decided to price it in the $2 million range. “In this case, we did a partial remodeling and, in four weeks, refinished floors, in-
stalled new fixtures, carpeted, painted inside and out, added furniture, and re-landscaped,” explains Rich. And while the owners invested considerable money in the work, she says the final sale price of over $2,400,000 represented a significant rate of return for them. “Let’s just say they were very, very pleased,” Rich concludes. Another realtor with a flair for marketing Larkspur homes is Jimmy Wanninger, commonly known as “Jimmy Marin,” with Frank Howard Allen. “What sets me apart is television,” says the outgoing Wanninger, “I appear on Marin’s TV50 every weekend morning and recently featured a fantastic Larkspur home atop Palm Hill.” His formula is to give an intro, a voice-over as the camera tours the property, and then appear personally at the end of the segment. “Many people recognize me and stop me on the street to say, ‘Hey, I saw you on TV.’” And his marketing doesn’t end there. “I bought DVDs of the Larkspur listing’s TV appearance,” Wanniger adds, “and when a husband or wife come through my open house alone, and are excited about the property, I give them a DVD to take home and show their partner.” His Palm Hill property received considerable attention, but was taken off the market for the holidays and wet winter season. “It’s now back for sale,” Wanninger says, “and I have the DVD if someone can’t get out to see it right away.” Even in charming Larkspur, marketing makes a difference.
12:35:47 PM
Specializing in selling your home
Robert D. Young, J.D. 415.407.7775
RobertYoungRealEstate.com
Matthew Pouliot 415.265.7020
PouliotProperties.com
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Early Larkspur landmarks still visible to a casual observer include the Escalle Winery (1880s) and Saint Patrick’s Church (1896), along with the aforementioned fire station, city hall, and library (1913). According to librarian Frances Gordon, “while we do have
“
It’s a great community for kids—Little League, Fourth of July parade, plenty of parks.
”
— KERRY BOGARDUS
computers, we’re one of only two libraries in
Property” is the proverbial 300-pound elephant that is present but not mentioned in most civic discussions. “All told, it’s 22 acres in the middle of the city the council is working to rezone from commercial to residential,” says Chu, “and then we’ll get with the owners and tackle the master planning.” Chu
California that still have a functioning card
of Gallery Bergelli, a downtown exhibit space
says there are two critical factors: “traffic,
catalog system.”
selling contemporary and original paintings
and adding children to an already maxed-out school district.”
“If I’d list what I love about Larkspur, I’d
and sculptures. Other Magnolia Avenue food-
start with the fact we don’t get coastal fog,”
ie destinations include Yankee Pier—Bradley
To get a feel for Larkspur’s distinctive
says Kerry Bogardus, a busy wife and mother
Ogden’s New England–style seafood café, and
Norman Rockwell, small-town persona, ask
of two with interests ranging from skiing to
Coquelicot, a colorful shop specializing in table
Chu why he wanted to be mayor. “The Boy
real estate. “Plus, it’s a great community for
settings and kitchenware. Farther out Magnolia,
Scouts,” he says. “When I was nine years old,
kids—Little League, Fourth of July parade,
in “north Larkspur,” business attractions in-
my community service training defined a
plenty of parks. And I’d finish with Larkspur’s
clude Village Peddler (bikes), Item (shoes/ac-
lifestyle that’s still with me.” What could be
wonderful restaurants.” Her preferred spots in-
cessories), Pearl Clothing, Collure (home decor),
more fitting for the town than a former Boy
clude Rulli’s for morning coffee and Left Bank
Corbet’s Hardware (opened in 1954), Painters
Scout (and now husband and father of two)
and Picco for dinner.
Place (framing/gallery), Folio (fine stationery/
riding in Larkspur’s Fourth of July Parade
gifts) and several full-service salons.
with the words “Mayor Larry Chu and His
“The Lark Creek Inn and Fabrizio Ristorante are among our dining favorites,” says Robin
There is some controversy in this quiet
Critelli, co-owner, with husband Steve Berg,
community. Mayor Larry Chu says the “Niven
Family” emblazoned on the side of a spiffy 1950s Chevy convertible?
Judy LeMarr 99 Dipsea Road, Stinson Beach in Seadrift
415-380-4642 jlemarr@fhallen.com www.marindreamhome.com
This light and spacious three bedroom, four and a half bathroom home, is perfectly situated on the widest part of the Seadrift Lagoon, across from the Bolinas Lagoon and Mt. Tamalpais State Park. An attached artist studio, in-home office, two car garage, and raised-bed garden all add to the function and beauty of one of the largest lots in Seadrift. Price available upon request.
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2/28/06
12:36:02 PM
Ross This beautiful and very special home is located in the coveted Winship Park neighborhood of Ross. The home is substantial and inviting, with lovely views, decks, a large flat lawn in the backyard and gorgeous gardens. Featuring six bedrooms, five and one half baths including the master suite, cheerful and sophisticated cook’s kitchen with eat-in area and adjoining family room with fireplace, formal dining room, exquisite living room with fireplace, second family room/play room downstairs, and three car attached garage. With more than it’s share of ambiance and charm, this home is a jewel.
Offered at $3,895,000
For more information and photographs, please visit my website: www.MarilynRich.com.
Marilyn Rich
415.464.3741 www.MarilynRich.com
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Whitney Rich
415.464.3729 wrich@pacunion.com
2/24/06 12:58:57 PM
Real Estate
Knowledge
You Can Trust. Jimmy Knows Marin
Peaceful Palm Hill
400 Elm Avenue, Larkspur
400 Elm Avenue is located atop the prestigious flats of Palm Hill with a charming fenced-in front yard including a covered porch, Southern Views of Mt. Tamalpais, rose gardens and lawn. The style and elegance of this home speak of comfort, warmth and contemporary living.
Jimmy Wanninger 415.990.8990 24/7
Sleepy Hollow Serenity
2 Legend, San Anselmo
One of Marin’s most unique properties, 2 Legend is located on a spectacular corner lot with gorgeous landscaping and grounds. This gated estate includes a lavish pool, flowing pond and numerous flowering trees and roses. The interior features five bedrooms, four bathrooms all on one level. Four fireplaces, vaulted ceilings and hardwood floors throughout make this the ideal property for all ages.
The Enclave of Tranquility
105 Windwalker Way
As it’s name implies, Tranquility is a peaceful enclave of 21 luxury homes on 18 acres in a setting of enduring natural beauty. Tranquility features rolling hills, towering oaks, permanent open space, pristine marshlands and sweeping views of the countryside. 105 Windwalker Way is located on a spectacular half acre level lot with gorgeous southwest orientation just a short distance from the trails and scenery of Deer Island.
Prices available upon request Jimmy Wanninger 415.990.8990 24/7
Additional photos available at www.JimmyMarin.com
Just a few minutes north of the Golden Gate, yet a million miles away, is Seadrift at Stinson Beach. For over 30 years, Seadrift Company has been the expert in Real Estate sales and premium vacation rentals in Stinson Beach and the private gated community of Seadrift. Call us today to reserve your beach house... for a week, a summer or a lifetime.
VIEW OUR PROPERTIES ONLINE AT WWW . SEADRIFTREALTY . COM AND CALL US AT 415.868.1791
1/2 HORIZONAL
Exquisite Views Incomparable Location
Sausalito Homesites: • Sweeping vistas of the San Francisco skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, Marin Headlands, and the Pacific Ocean • Private gated road • 1.3 acre level estate site
ADVERTISER MINUTES TO SAN FRANCISCO
Large sloping building lot. $1,100,000. Terms available. Maryann Diluzio Real Estate • 415-332-8555 Co-listed with Danielle Chavanon, Sotheby’s International Realty • 415-296-2224
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2/27/06 9:52:48 AM
L E A V I N G N O S T O N E U N T U R N E D SM R E A L E S TAT E T E A M
ARCHITECTURALLY INNOVATIVE
This stunning 3837 sq. ft.*, 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath home includes a spacious guest
MARIN
Marin’s most beautiful valleys with views of the golf course & lush woods. Newly
Offered at $1,795,000
completed in 2005, the design features an open ‘great room’, sleek gourmet kitchen,
• 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath main house • Guest cottage: 1 bedroom, 1 bath & 2nd kitchen • Dramatic blackbottom pool with fountains • 1470 sq. ft.* unfinished downstairs – expansion-ready • 2 car extra deep garage with 2 automatic doors
cottage and is strategically placed on over an Acre* knollside setting. Situated in one of
media center wired for home theater, Venetian plaster fireplaces, floor to ceiling windows, numerous skylights and high tech lighting. Enjoy the enclosed private courtyard with lap pool, waterfalls & large planted garden. *Source: County Tax Records/Owner – not verified by agent
JEANNIE RORVIK
415.828.4766 mjrorvik@comcast.net
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JEFF STERLEY First Marin Real Estate
415.464.3760 jsterley@pacunion.com www.homesofmarin.com
2/24/06 1:11:41 PM
16 DE SILVA ISLAND DRIVE
A unique living experience at De Silva Island, nestled in a 31 acre wildlife preserve, minutes to HWY 101 and just 5 miles to the Golden Gate Bridge. Striking interior design and finishes by Tucker and Marks and construction by Hadley Construction have created an exquisite residence of superior quality in every detail. Contemporary design featuring high ceilings, expansive walls space ideal for art, sophisticated lighting system, custom cabinets of exotic woods together create a truly unique home. Offered at $1,875,000.
Contemporary, single level condominium consisting of an expansive living room and dining room, high-tech kitchen, a master suite, office/2nd bedroom, media room, two bathrooms, powder room, wine room and two-car garage.
• • • • •
KITCHEN Bulthaup stainless steel cabinets Miele double oven and dishwasher Gaggenau built-in steamer Wolf 4-burner range Sub-Zero refrigerator freezer
• Built-in desk with internet connection • Eating area • Two sinks • Walk-in pantry • Viking wine cooler • Butcher block island • Double doors leading to deck
MAYNE AND COMPANY R E A L E S TAT E
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MILL VALLEY, CALIFORNIA MASTER SUITE • Custom cabinetry of Sycamore and Fiddleback • Bay Window with Roman shades (motorized) • His and her closets • Private Deck
y
• Over-Sized shower of Parramore: Razmatazz hand-cut, polished marble and granite mosaic tiles • Spring Mist Slate floors and baseboards • Costa Smeralda Granite Slab countertop with custom teak cabinet • Agape “Spoon” tub and Agape wash basins • Marmarino plaster walls • Dornbracht Fixtures
• • • •
MEDIA ROOM Creston touch pads Grass cloth wall coverings Surround speakers Custom cabinets of Anegre
• • • •
OFFICE Custom cabinets Crema Marfil slab inset into desk top Mecho shades Private deck
s
MAYNECO@COMCAST.NET
LMayne_0406_v3.indd 5
LINDA MAYNE, BROKER TELEPHONE: 415-460-0900
2/27/06 10:04:32 AM
The Jewel of Salmon Creek - Dignified and elegant, magical and serene!
the moment you step into this home with its unique old world charm you are transported to a cozy place; full of the enjoyment F rom of life. One of the most recognized properties on the Sonoma Coast, this home was built around 1868 by Hugh Marshall and was
used as the “coastal station” stop on the original stage coach road. It initially housed the post office and a hotel and has been carefully refurbished during the past one and a half years. The lovely atrium provides a place to enjoy beautiful sunny days with views of Salmon Creek and the beach. You have unobstructed views from the 30’ elevation above Salmon Creek. This remarkable four bedroom, two and a half bath 2104 ± sq.ft. home located on a 36,000 ± sq.ft. (.82 acre) lot is offered fully furnished with antiques. Exclusive, offered at $2,300,000.
Beautifully Remodeled Frontline Home
tunning ocean views on wonderfully located .53± acre lot. The eyes pass from the backyard straight to the ocean and waves. No sight or sound of Highway One. Located across from popular, gorgeous Portuguese Beach. Recently remodeled three bedroom with radiant heat throughout, custom maple cabinets with black slab granite kitchen, stainless steel appliances. Hot tub and two car garage. You can’t get any closer to Sonoma State Beach without getting wet! Proudly offered at $1,085,000.
S
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Elegant Living with Ocean and Bay Views
three bedroom, three and a half bath home was created just a year ago. Quality built with the best material, designed by T hisJameselegant McCalligan, and finish details by the owners offer the best that a Bodega Harbour custom home can offer. The tri-level home is complete with Wolf oven & microwave, Viking 35” cook top, Fisher & Paykel two drawer dish washer, walk-in pantry, Sub-Zero stainless steel refrigerator, granite slab counters and island, under counter wine refrigerator, cherry wood cabinets throughout. Flat wall-mounted TVs in living room and master bedroom, surround sound system. Approximately 2766 ± sq.ft. of living space. Proudly offered at $1,495,000.
Fabulous Beach Views and Access
alk this way to the beach! Ocean front, two bedroom home with exceptionally fabulous views. Near Duncan’s Landing. Beautifully redone single story with stone and wood laminate floors, lots of glass; oceanside windows that bring it all in. Fireplace, sitting and living areas, with remodeled kitchen and bath. Decks and courtyard with privacy and excellent views of the wide, sandy beach. Two original lots include a two car garage, workshop/utility room and extra parking. Appointment only. EXCLUSIVE! Proudly offered at $1,595,000.
W
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D I A LO GUE
BY SAMANTHA SCHOECH
Lilly and Jeanie wandered happily, the quintessential Marin writer
You could live anywhere. Why Marin? I was born and raised here. I love everything about Marin and I’ve never really considered anyplace else. What makes you happy in Marin? The beauty, the mountains, the ocean, Deer Park, my friends. Everyone I love lives here. I love the vibe. What gets on your nerves here? SUVs and gigantic, stupid, unnecessary, macho trucks. What’s your personal idea of luxury? Room service; it’s the best thing about being on book tour. But I’m not a luxury person. What do you value every day? The incredible community of my church [St. Andrews Presbyterian in Marin City] is more precious to me than anything. What person has influenced you the most? My father, Kenneth Lamott, who died in Bolinas in 1979. He was a wonderful, accomplished writer. He taught me how to write, hike, bird-watch. What’s been the most fulfilling moment in your work? Last year I was waiting for the reviews of Plan B to hit and no one in New York had gotten the first batch of magazines yet. I walked into Bell Market in Fairfax and there was the new People with a great, fabulous picture and review. I got to show it to everyone. What’s a Marin stereotype that fits? Stereotypes are not very true once you stop and say hello to a person. But, there is a stereotype of us as being tree-huggers with truly fantastic environmental awareness and huge SUVs that’s unfortunately true. What stereotype doesn’t fit? All the stupid hot-tubbing stuff. It’s such a Hollywood caricature. What makes your skin crawl? Rich people who talk dismissively to people in service. Also, George Bush makes my skin try to leave my body and run for its cute little life. What’s your desert island book or album? Anything by Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, Bonnie Raitt, Neil Young, or Lucinda Williams. What’s your favorite place to unwind? My bedroom. Deer Park is a close second—it looks like what heaven looks like. What’s your favorite journey? I love to go to Mexico. The main thing is always coming home. At some point you get to drive north over the Golden Gate Bridge. I’ve done it thousands of times but every time I feel like I could get out and kiss the ground. It’s exquisite. What do you like about yourself? I drive such a small car. I like that I’m a political activist. I’m a worker bee for civil rights and the rights of the poor. And I have a gorgeous, amazing child. How do you want to be remembered? For trying to be really, really kind and respectful to everyone. That’s what my parents and their friends taught me.
answered the Marin Questionnaire.
PLAN B COMES OUT IN PAPERBACK THIS MONTH.
O
XFORD, MISSISSIPPI, had Faulkner, the Salinas Valley had John Steinbeck, and we have Annie Lamott. Born and raised in Tiburon (“back when the trains still ran”), Lamott has set every one of her ten books in Marin. It’s a body of work that
has earned her a loyal and loving following. Attending a reading by Annie Lamott, known for her acerbic wit, brutal honesty, and gentle but sturdy Christian faith, is to attend a lovefest of admiration. She lives and writes in Fairfax a few blocks from her brother and his family. “It’s our own little Hyannisport. I’m sort of the Ted Kennedy figure,” she says, from her light-filled living room in the modest house she shares with her 16-year-old son, Sam, Lilly the dog, and Jeanie the cat. When she’s not writing, she is hiking in Deer Park, doing laundry, or hanging out with friends, family, and her boyfriend, Rory. She hates parties and restaurants because “you have to talk to people” but she loves the movies. She can be found almost every Friday night and many Saturdays at the Rafael. We caught up with her on a sunny afternoon in January. While
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PHOTO: BA RBA RA RIES
Anne Lamott
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2/27/06 9:02:10 AM
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In the 1970s, New York was the place where Cartier found the inspiration for its famous bracelet. Locked in place by a loved one, it symbolizes an everlasting bond.
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