Marin Magazine December 2008 by 270 Media

MARI N E X T R A O R D I N A R Y

L I V I N G

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CONTENTS

Features 64 life

At The Redwoods

Mill Valley’s senior enclave is a culture, not a place. story jim wood photos tim porter

72 home

Deck the Holidays

Tradition and ﬂair blend happily in a beauty mogul’s home. story p. j. bremier photos barbara ries

80 journey

Belvedere to Baghdad

Marin’s Dr. Tom Cromwell leads a team of physicians into Iraq. story & photos jim wood

Marin (USPS 024-898) is published monthly by Marin Magazine, LLC, One Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965. Periodicals Postage Paid at Sausalito, CA and at additional mailing ofﬁces. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Marin, One Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

CONTENTS

88 48

Departments 22 letters Readers respond to Marin Magazine.

28 at a glance Hot tips day by day for the Bay Area.

30 album Ruminating on ruminants. by tim porter

32 currents Bay Area news, books, openings, people and events.

38 snap Out and about, in and around Marin.

fashion trends

life style

fyi

Purely red. by somer ﬂaherty

Mill Valley’s Alan Scoﬁeld shares his thoughts on style. by mimi towle

Travel: San Francisco holidays. by mimi towle Collector: Debra Bogaards and her dreidels. by mimi towle People: Family history lives on. by somer ﬂaherty Art: MAC’s Jeanne Bogardus takes a curtain call. by daniel jewett

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

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CONTENTS

154

Departments 88

go Powder to the people. by dawn margolis

92 books

Season’s readings. by samantha schoech

96 galleries

Current exhibits at local venues. by anne crump ray

100 calendar

A roundup of performing arts, events, galleries and more.

110 flavor

Marin Magazine’s Organic Marin recipes from local restaurants. Dine Out, an insider’s guide to Bay Area eateries.

134 microclimate

Hilltops and houseboats in Sausalito. by daniel jewett

dialogue

154

Marin famed restaurateur Cecilia Chiang. by mimi towle

Columns The Cover The Gift by Robert C. Jackson is

view from mount tam

pov

The creators of Marin Magazine welcome you to share their vision.

now on exhibit at Deborah Young Gallery in Sausalito. To view more of his work visit deborahyounggallery.com. 10

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

What does 2009 hold? by jim wood

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EDITORIAL EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Nikki Wood

ext 105 | nwood@marinmagazine.com EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Jim Wood

ext 106 | jwood@marinmagazine.com SENIOR EDITOR

Mimi Towle

ext 101 | mtowle@marinmagazine.com EDITOR-AT-LARGE

Tim Porter

tporter@marinmagazine.com

Somer Flaherty

DEPARTMENTS EDITOR

ext 103 | sflaherty@marinmagazine.com WEB EDITOR

Daniel Jewett

ext 116 | djewett@marinmagazine.com COPY EDITOR/PROOFREADER

Cynthia Rubin

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

P. J. Bremier, Dawn Margolis, Anne Crump Ray, Samantha Schoech

ART ART DIRECTOR

Trpti Todd

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Alex French

ext 111 | production@marinmagazine.com PRODUCTION ARTIST

Stephen Spoja

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Drew Altizer, Sheri Montgomery, Barbara Ries

A D M I N I S T R AT I O N CONTROLLER

Maeve Walsh

ext 104 | mwalsh@marinmagazine.com OFFICE MANAGER

Linda Reid

ext 100 | lreid@marinmagazine.com

MARIN MAGAZINE ONE HARBOR DR, STE 208, SAUSALITO, CA 94965 PH 415.332.4800 FAX 415.332.3048 MARINMAGAZINE.COM EDITORIAL@MARINMAGAZINE.COM

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

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ADVERTISING PUBLISHER

Lisa Shanower

ext 107 | lshanower@marinmagazine.com ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Michele Johnson

ext 110 | mjohnson@marinmagazine.com ACCOUNT MANAGER

Leah Bronson

ext 109 | lbronson@marinmagazine.com ACCOUNT MANAGER

Stephanie Ericson

ext 108 | sericson@marinmagazine.com ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR

Alex French

ext 111 | production@marinmagazine.com

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MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

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V I E W F R O M M O U N T TA M

FEW PLACES HAVE LESS IN COMMON than the leafy is-

tree, colored lights, and a Christmas Eve that includes the

land community of Belvedere and the embattled Iraqi cap-

traditional (steaming New Mexican posole) and the mod-

ital, Baghdad. Yet, there is a connection—one made by

ern (streaming Santa Claus on the Web).

Belvedere Mayor Tom Cromwell, an anesthesiologist who

Also in this issue, in FYI People, Somer Flaherty pro-

led a team of fellow doctors on a teaching mission to Iraq.

files Eva Beale of Mill Valley, whose recent book and

We made the long trip with them, and in Journey we tell

online jewelry collection is based on family ties to the

the story of two worlds of medicine coming together un-

Bouvier clan of Jackie Kennedy fame; in FYI Travel, Mimi

der difficult circumstances.

Towle offers a go-and-do guide to San Francisco during

Here in Marin, we find another link to the war in Iraq

the holiday season; in FYI Art, Daniel Jewett says hel-

—and meet another extraordinary group of people—at

lo—and farewell—to Jeanne Bogardus of the Marin Arts

The Redwoods, the engaging Mill Valley retirement com-

Council; Dialogue chats with restaurateur Cecilia Chiang;

munity that is home to Seniors for Peace, whose members

and Microclimate wanders about in Sausalito.

have held a lively street-corner antiwar protest, come rain

As always, our wish is for your good reading. Enjoy

or come shine, for nearly six years. Among them we find

Marin Magazine, as we continue to celebrate this

a teacher, a radio pioneer, a civic activist and a writer of

extraordinary place!

children’s books. Tim Porter provides the visual portraits.

Lisa Shanower, Publisher

In Home, cosmetics executive Leslie Blodgett welcomes

Nikki Wood, Editorial Director

P. J. Bremier into her lovely Tiburon home (designed by

Jim Wood, Executive Editor

Jessica Hall Grace) for a family Christmas tour—a 12-foot

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

The doors, and the ocean, are now open.

Discover an aquarium, a planetarium and a four-story rainforest all under one living roof. Now open in Golden Gate Park. Visit calacademy.org to purchase tickets.

LE TTE RS

Readers respond ❯❯ Loved Norway Thank you for your wonderful article about Norway (November)! I am a Norwegian native who specializes in travel to Norway, so I read with critical eyes. This is one of the best travel articles I have read about Norway, with pictures to match! Since we are planning a small hiking group trip to the Norwegian fjord country in July 2009, this could not come at a better time for us! Thank you again! Sidsel (Siss) Moller, Kentfield

❯❯ Iraq statement In his POV column (November) Jim Wood wrote a few lines about America and the Iraq situation, ending his discourse by saying “on November 4th, the real America will step forward.” Mr. Wood, are you suggesting that those of us who believe that the Iraq conflict

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❯❯ Oyster farm support Your slick and fashion-filled magazine has

usually gone straight from my mailbox to my recycling, but this time I happened to glance through it and find P. J. Bremier’s article “The Oyster War.” I congratulate you, and

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DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

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Bremier, on an excellent piece of well-balanced reporting that tells it like it is: a war. I am still befuddled as to why Don Neubacher, superintendent of the Point Reyes National Seashore, sees Kevin Lunny’s Drakes Bay Oyster Farm as the enemy, but it is clear, at least to me, that Neubacher is manipulating data in whatever way he sees fit to get rid of the farm. I don’t understand why; it almost sounds like a personal vendetta. Marin County is so amazingly fortunate to have a bounty of farms and ranches within our borders, and I think we should do everything in our power to preserve and enhance their existence. Point Reyes National Seashore has the opportunity of modeling for the nation how public lands and private farming can coexist for the benefi t of all. I hope that Mr. Neubacher will change his stance and take advantage of this unique opportunity. Margaret Harding, Mill Valley

❯❯ Elitism in Congress? In November’s Conversation with Lynn Woolsey, I was amazed by the congresswoman’s elitist attitude, considering her simple roots, in her comment that aside from the Sixth District and urban population centers— New York, Chicago, California, and possibly Florida—the rest of America is “not educated enough to analyze and evaluate what’s good for them.” I guess that’s why we need Congress, to show us the way with a twelve percent approval rating (CBS/New York Times)! Amazing! Paul Dobson, San Rafael Letters to the editor may be edited for clarity and brevity. Send letters to Marin Magazine, One Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965. Or e-mail jwood@marinmagazine.com.

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

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POV

What Does 2009 Hold? Marin is well-positioned for an uncertain future

BY JIM WOOD

levels; and retail sales and industrial produc-

AA+, one of California’s highest. During 2009,

tion have fallen dramatically. More bad news:

keep these items in mind.

California faces a budget deficit of $10 billion.

At the same time, let’s not forget Marin is

Yet, when I’m out and about—includ-

a caring, creative and, yes, affluent communi-

ing recent days in New York City and San

ty. An example is Kentfield’s Don Santa. Not

Francisco—all appears well. Airports, major

only will his successful Woodlands Market in

stores and high-end restaurants are bustling;

Kentfield soon be expanding into Belvedere/

cars on the freeways still sport the occasion-

Tiburon, but he recently lent out his one-of-a-

al paper license plate; and, here in Marin,

kind mountaintop home for a local fundraiser.

homes seem to be changing owners regu-

Afterward, Santa said it best: “Where else but

larly—though prices have dipped a little. So

in Marin will you find in the midst of the worst

what’s going on?

economic crisis of our times a group getting to-

All I can say for sure is this: Marin County

gether and raising $300,000 in one evening, as

is as good as any place to live out the uncer-

the Ross Valley Women’s League did for Adopt

tain times that certainly lie ahead. Let’s count

a Family of Marin?” That’s a productive eve-

the ways.

ning for a nonprofit.

First, Obama is president. In Marin, he

And here’s Bank of Marin President/CEO

eading into a new year, one thing

handily won the state primary and received

Russ Colombo’s take on the times: “While no

is certain: No one knows exactly

nearly 80 percent of the local vote in the fi-

one’s immune from the current economic per-

what’s going to happen in our econ-

nal election. That should put a bounce in our

ils, Marin’s slow-growth approach will now

omy. Leading financial institutions have failed,

step. Moreover, with Mark Leno as state sena-

serve us well. We have no new tracts of homes

stock markets have crashed and millions of

tor, Jared Huffman as assemblyman and Lynn

here; therefore, we have very few, if any, sub-

homes are in foreclosure. What’s next?

Woolsey in Congress, Marin has a solid team

prime loans and the foreclosures that often fol-

of legislative representatives.

low.” Colombo, born and raised in Marin, is

A recent report on CBS’s 60 Minutes revealed that the market in credit derivatives, the

More Marin-positive election results:

cautiously optimistic. “Thanks to our bank’s

unregulated financial instruments that exor-

Measures Q, A and E all passed, which means,

conservative lending policies, we experienced

bitantly magnified the collapse of the housing

respectively, the over $1 billion SMART com-

solid growth in 2008,” he says of his institu-

market, had grown from $100 billion to more

muter rail line will be built; Mill Valley will have

tion, which has nearly $1 billion in assets,

than—are you ready for this?—$50 trillion. This

$2 million more each year to educate its nearly

“and in 2009 we anticipate continued growth,

happened in the eight years following the dereg-

3,000 students; and Corte Madera and Larkspur

though maybe not as fast.”

ulation of derivatives, or credit default swaps, or

will break ground on a $20 million police head-

Finally, with America’s new president for

collateralized debt obligations—whatever you

quarters. Why is this good? According to Nobel

inspiration let us resolve to volunteer to an

choose to call them (Warren Buffett labels them

Prize–winning economist Paul Krugman: “What

even higher degree and be nicer, more con-

“financial weapons of mass destruction”). That

we need in these perilous times is more, not

genial, to one another. It could be a difficult,

figure again: $50 trillion.

less, government spending.”

more stressful era—and remember, we are all

As direct and indirect results, Iceland,

Considering that, voter approval of

in this together. As stated above, Marin is as

Pakistan and Hungary are approaching insol-

California’s $10 billion zero-emissions high-

good (and beautiful) as any place on earth

vency, as is General Motors; 10 million U.S.

speed train between L.A. and S.F. is anoth-

to live out the uncertain times that lie ahead.

homes have mortgages exceeding their worth;

er economic victory. More good news: Marin

That’s my point of view. What’s yours?

unemployment claims are passing recession

County’s bond rating was recently upgraded to

E-mail jwood@marinmagazine.com.

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

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MARIN’S VIBRANT LEARNING VALLEY FOR BOYS AND GIRLS PRE-K THROUGH GRADE 8

AT A G LANC E

THRU JANUARY 23 Robert Allen Fine Art

DECEMBER 5 Angel Lights Benefit

Gallery artists group show featuring work from more than 40 artists. Robert Allen Fine Art (Sausalito). 415.331.2800, robertallenfineart.com

Join in the effort to protect Angel Island State Park and bring back the Christmas lights. Corinthian Yacht Club (Tiburon). 415.435.3972, angelisland.org

DECEMBER 6 Holiday Arts and Crafts Sale

DECEMBER 6 Gingerbread House Decorating Party

DECEMBER 11 Hanukkah

The Belvedere-Tiburon Landmarks Society is hosting a crafts sale perfect for the holidays. Art & Garden Center (Tiburon). 415.435.1853, landmarks-society.org

Whistlestop, also known as the Marin Senior Coordinating Council, is hosting its 10th annual gingerbread house decorating party. Jackson Café (San Rafael). 415.456.9062, ext. 121

The eight-day Jewish Festival of Lights begins today marking the re-dedication of the ancient temple in Jerusalem.

DECEMBER 11–24 Ross Valley Players

DECEMBER 13 Tour de Noel

See Ron Severdia portray more than 40 characters in the Charles Dickens classic A Christmas Carol. Barn Theatre (Ross). 415.456.9555, rossvalleyplayers.com

Tour four local homes decorated for the holidays and enjoy lunch at St. John’s Episcopal Church at this 22nd annual event. St. John’s Episcopal Church (Ross). 415.456.1102, tourdenoel.org

DECEMBER 13–14 Marin County Antique Show

It’s time to wake up your parents and see what old St. Nicholas has left under the tree. It’s a great day to spend with family.

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

The classic is back with new sets, costumes and choreography; even Act One is all new. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marinballet.org

DECEMBER 21 SingersMarin Join the SingersMarin for a holiday choral classic, ’Tis the Season … Sounds of Peace and Joy. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, singersmarin.org

Your one-stop shop for rare treasures includes crystal, glassware, silver and more. Marin County Civic Center (San Rafael). 415.383.2252, goldengateshows.com

DECEMBER 25 Merry Christmas

DECEMBER 13–14 Marin Ballet’s Nutcracker

DECEMBER 31 Les Claypool with Zappa Plays Zappa Send 2008 off in style with this wacky double header. War Memorial Opera House (SF). 415.421.8497, goldenvoice.com

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTO: LUNDY CANYON/C ONNIE S MITH SIEG EL ; RON SEVERD IA/ALES S AND RA M ELLO

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M A R I N ALBUM

Ruminating on Ruminants “I ask people why they have deer heads on their walls. They always say because it’s such a beautiful animal. I think my

BY TIM PORTER

MARIN COUNTY IS DEER COUNTRY, black-tailed deer to be precise (Odocoileus he-

mionus), a relative of the mule deer, named not for its stiff-necked personality but for its prominent and highly ﬂexible pair of mulish ears. No one seems to know how many black-tailed deer Marin has. Statewide, though, there are on average 18 to 60 per square mile. Marin occupies about 2,000 square

mother is attractive, but I have photographs of her.” — ELLEN DEGEN ER ES

miles, so a little math gets us to this: We’ve probably got anywhere from 36,000 to 120,000 of the critters. Considering Marin has only 248,000 people, even the lower number produces a pretty high ratio of ruminants to Homo sapiens. That’s why the deer seem to be everywhere — the backyard herb garden you’ve tended so lovingly; the heirloom roses Grandma gave you; on the road at dusk, leaping with balletic grace up a hillside; or, as seen above, grazing silently at dawn on the Still, occasional nuisance aside, we welcome the blacktail — its watchful eyes, primevally dark; its fawns of spring, tattooed with spots; its randy bucks of fall, antlered and on the prowl. For they inject a bit of wild into our civilized lives, reminding us gently that our manmade surroundings are only part of a larger natural world.

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTO: TIM PORTER

dewy green grass at McNear’s Beach in San Rafael.

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C U R R E NT S

IN TIME FOR THE

HOLIDAYS

Carry Your Tune San Rafael’s Daniel and Lauren Ng’s line of guitar bags, Mono, has just launched in the Netherlands and U.K. The couple works from their backyard, aiming to be a zero-waste

GET IN CHARACTER

company; plans are under way to debut a new deejay bag at

Jen Harland and mother Denise Foster’s Sausalito-based online shop, Pose Prints, features custom-order stationery that showcases the sender in a personalized “pose.” Clients go to the site and create one- or two-person illustration renderings of themselves to adorn invitations, announcements, thank-you cards and more. With more than 30 backgrounds and hundreds of design elements (all original hand drawings by Harland) to choose from, it’s an instant way to be immortalized in print. Pose Prints (Sausalito). 888.526.7673, poseprints.com

the NAMM show, one of the largest music trade shows, this January. monocase.com

LEEDING THE WAY

LOCAL ARRANGEMENTS Forget the tulips and give a loved one local sunflowers or West Marin dahlias. San Anselmo has a new flower shop with an eco-friendly twist: Local Flora stocks mostly seasonal, sustainably grown blooms from growers in Bolinas, Nicasio and Petaluma, as opposed to the traditional route of having them shipped in from out of state or out of the country. Plus, delivery is by biodiesel. 415.459.4490, marinflora.com

Fit in Marin

CONSTRUCTION IS AFOOT TO TRANSFORM A MORE THAN 40-year-old mall last remodeled in the ’80s into a $70 million, 725,000-square-foot shoppers’ paradise. That’s right: the biggest enclosed retail mecca in Marin, Northgate, is changing its look and aiming to be the first shopping center in the nation with the coveted hard-to-earn LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification. The renovation, being done in stages while the complex remains open, calls for rooftop windows, new landscaping, light-filled courtyards and giant sliding glass doors that can be opened or closed as weather allows. Look for the new completed Northgate by fall 2009. 415.479.5955, shopatnorthgate.com

One of Marin’s newest ﬁtness destinations,

Grasshopper Pilates, has opened in San Anselmo. The fully equipped studio oﬀers classical Pilates instruction in both one-on-one and group format and will be a licensed training center for the international Pilates Center, certifying future teachers. Post-workout, students get a jasmine/green-tea-infused dark chocolate disk for an antioxidant boost. Grasshopper Pilates (San Anselmo). 415.419.5871, grasshopperpilatesofmarin.com

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

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C U R R E NT S

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE KIDS KID-FRIENDLY SKIES The Let’s Go Chipper! Get Ready to Fly Activity Set helps young travelers get their wings. From what to pack to check-in, boarding, flying and landing, the fundamentals of flying are laid out in a colorful set that includes activity book, crayons, plush pillow backpack and reusable tote. This is the fourth project for kids from Marin-based IAGMedia, whose founder Stephanie Rach is committed to offering family-friendly products with minimal packaging. Retails for $35 at getreadytofly.com and Monkey Business in Mill Valley.

EXPECT THE BEST

Pilot your way through pregnan-

JOIN THE CLUB In one of the wealthiest counties in California, it is easy to forget that homelessness and poverty affect many local young people. Now there is help on the horizon for this underserved population, as the Boys and Girls Clubs plans to introduce its ﬁrst-ever clubhouses in the county next year. The new clubs—one opening in San Rafael next month and the other in Novato this spring— will provide a safe haven and a positive, structured environment for area youth. Funds for the effort are still needed; call 415.435.1023 or visit bgcmarin.org to learn how to help.

cy with San Anselmo resident Tori Kropp’s recently published

a California Pacific Medical

Top Soccer for All Kids

Center prenatal nurse, presents

THIS YEAR MILL VALLEY SOCCER in-

10 chapters organized accord-

troduced a new community-based, coun-

ing to each lunar month after

ty-wide program for children with physi-

book. In The Joy of Pregnancy (Harvard Common Press), Kropp,

pregnancy is confirmed, plus one for the early postpartum pe-

cal challenges and/or learning differences. “Frank Bonardi [of Mill Valley Soccer Club] has created an environment for

riod. From calculating due date

our kids that has literally leveled the

to morning sickness to choosing

playing ﬁeld and makes them feel good

childbirth classes, here’s a new

about themselves,” says Ross Bufﬁngton,

encouraging tome for expectant

who has two sons in the program. “There are many elements of this program that make it work. But I think the fact that they get uniforms and play on the same ﬁelds as their sib-

parents to turn to. $15 at local

lings builds their self-conﬁdence in a way that can’t be described. We will deﬁnitely sign

bookstores and amazon.com

up again for the next season.” For more details, call 415.381.KICK or go to mvsc.org.

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

news from the north THE SUITE SPA AS LOCAL GOURMANDS EAGERLY AWAIT THE OPENING OF two more landmark Yountville restaurants—Michael Chiarello’s Bottega Ristorante and Laura Cunningham’s (formerly of French Laundry) forthcoming Italian eatery, Vita—spa-lovers can already celebrate Villagio’s long-awaited new 13,000-square-foot space. The folks at Spa Villagio have come up with five special spa experience packages to show off their new luxury suites. Each Suite Sensation (or “SS”) includes three and a half hours of pure pampering with a custom-picked menu of treatments plus cleansing steam shower, in a setting that includes private indoor-outdoor lounge with fireplace and flat-screen TV. A well-stocked wet bar with gourmet spa cuisine is also available. villagio.com

ESTATE-HOOD FOR THE PAST TWO CENTURIES, 400 West Spain Street has been a Sonoma Valley destination address. Built in 1864, the two-story Victorian surrounded by

All Hail the Cabs!

fertile gardens and pastureland was the

General Mariano Vallejo, a key player

he distinguished Stag’s Leap District

reputed home (or one of the homes) of

has made gift giving easy this year

in California’s transition from Mexico

with its Appellation Collection—a bottle from

to United States hands. For the past 15

each of the 15 participating wineries. This

years, the General’s Daughter, one of

year’s featured varietal is 2004 cabernet

the region’s most talked-about eater-

sauvignon, says Nancy Bialek of Larkspur, executive director of the Stags Leap District Winegrowers Association for the past 13 years. “This cellar-worthy vintage, highly ac-

ies, resided here, but last month Sondra Bernstein, proprietor of the popular girl & the fig and the fig café, took the keys and opened the Estate. The restaurant features regional Italian fare made from the bounty of the property’s gardens, nearby farms and ranches. estate-sonoma.com

claimed by winemakers and critics alike, will continue to increase in value,” she adds. At

Calling all oenophiles! Thursdays Mustards Grill is the place to

$1,200 a box, it’s a generous way to say

be to taste wines rarely offered by the glass paired with chef Cindy Pawlcyn’s award-winning

happy holidays. stagsleapdistrict.com

cuisine. This ongoing event is aptly named Way Too Many Wines. mustardsgrill.com

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

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SNAP MVFF OPENING NIGHT

Logan Miller, Jeromiah Zajonc, Noah Miller

CABANA HOME PARTY

Cynthia Pepper, Dakota Fanning, Melinda Darlington Bach

Felicia Gaston, Mark Fishkin

Film Festival Happenings For this year’s 31st annual Mill Valley Film Festival moviegoers were treated to an opening night presentation of The Secret Life of Bees, complete with actress Dakota Fanning and director Gina Prince-Blythewood in attendance. Down the street, Marin Magazine teamed up with Cabana Home to celebrate the opening of the festival with a second annual preopening ﬁlm festival party. Guests were treated to catering by All Seasons Catering and bubbly from J Wines.

Leisa and Michael Synder, Caroline Thompson

Joy and Bruce Goldberg, Barbara Hazen Linden Murphy, Bill Hazen

David and Josette Schwartz

Janet Cloutier, Anna Ullezich

MARIN DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTO CREDIT: OPENING NIGHT/DAWSON HORNSTEIN; CABANA HOME/SHERI MONTGOMERY

Paul and Jean Guerin, Zoe Borkowski, Inka Von Sternenfels

“The Fine Art of Fine Property” Tracy McLaughlin Named Marin’s top producing agent for 2007 with 100 million sold. Specializing in Marin County Properties since 1997.

Tracy McLaughlin 415/464-8686 www.marinfinehomes.com tracy@marinfinehomes.com

SNAP BUCK INSTITUTE

Melissa Lasky, Roxanne Richards

Ann Otter

Mary Poland, Marie Allman

Local Science

ACADEMY OF SCIENCES GALA

Mary Poland and Ann Otter, cochairs of the Buck Institute’s May 16, 2009, Crystal Ball, held a pre-event luncheon in September at the institute to brainstorm ideas in advance of the 10th anniversary celebration, which is anticipated to be a very memorable evening. Gala, guests toured exhibits and stargazed on the living roof before the museum reopened to the public. The gala featured small bites by McCall Associates, decor designed by Stanlee Gatti and a performance by Elvis Costello. Also before the big opening, guests like senior scientist John McCosker were invited to a Pauline and Tom Tusher

Liebe and Bill Patterson

special Academy Dinner in the East Garden.

ACADEMY DINNER

William Fries ll, Dona Crowder, Pam and John McCosker

MARIN DECEMBER 2008

Mel Tukman, Lois Tukman

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTO CREDIT: BUCK INSTITUTE/AUBRIE PICK FOR DREW ALTIZER; ACADEMY OF SCIENCES GALA & DINNER/DREW ALTIZER PHOTOGRAPHY

At the California Academy of Sciences’ Big Bang

SNAP ROSS VALLEY WOMEN’S LEAGUE

Ann Vuille Comer, Pamela Meyer, Ann McIntire, Liseanne Alperin

Jared and Debbie Polsky

Ray and Karen Hoffman

Jean Larette, Aryan Davachi

Galas and Glamour

SYMPHONY OPENING

In Kentﬁeld, the Ross Valley Women’s League hosted its annual fundraising event for Adopt a Family of Marin. Guests were dressed in colorful saris for the Maharaja Madness theme, which included Indian dancers, music and food. The event is expected to have raised $250,000 for the organization, which provides basic services to families in need. Michael Tilson Thomas and the San Francisco Symphony celebrated the opening of the season with a concert, featuring pianist Yeﬁm Bronfman. Following the Davies Symphony Hall performance, Michael Tilson Thomas, Charlotte Shultz

Yeﬁm Bronfman, Stephanie and Frank Harmon

guests enjoyed two after-parties in the Davies Symphony Hall Tent Pavilion and City Hall with entertainment by local band Pride & Joy and the Robert Vickers Orchestra. In Tiburon, the Thieriot family held

THIERIOT BENEFIT

a champagne brunch with Royal Highnesses Crown Prince Alexander and Crown Princess Katherine of Yugoslavia as a beneﬁt for the Lifeline Humanitarian Organization’s project to support the neonatal intensive care units in the hospitals of Serbia. Recently, CorStone held its launch party at 142 Throckmorton Theatre. The event, which was hosted by Top Chef contestant and San Francisco chef Ryan Scott, featured an Iron Servino of Servino restaurant. Sausalito-based CorStone, formerly the International Center for Attitudinal Healing, is a nonproﬁt that develops

Robert Eves, Elizabeth Thieriot, HRH Crown Princess Katherine, HRH Crown Prince Alexander

and supports emotional resilience in children, families and communities, empowering them to better deal with challenge, conﬂict or crisis.

CORSTONE

Harriett MacLean, Sean Saylor, Michael Watenpaugh, Mary McLain, Ryan Scott, Steve Leventhal, Lori Bonn, Tom Drescher, Laurie Kimbrel

MARIN DECEMBER 2008

Bernard Brehier, Angelo Servino

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTO CREDIT: THIERIOT, SYMHONY AND ROSS VALLEY WOMEN’S LEAGUE/DREW ALTIZER

Chef–style challenge with Sean Saylor of Saylor’s restaurant and Angelo

Awaken to your life’s higher purpose– you know, finding stuff. Consider this a new definition of happiness: always finding exactly what you seek. In the garage, this means beautiful wood, steel and aluminum cabinetry, infinitely adjustable wall storage and striking floor finishes. We do affordable and insanely deluxe and yes, the design proposal is always complimentary. When you eliminate chaos, you quickly locate two important things in your life: your gear and your sanity.

800.755.7704

garagesolutions.com

Calm. Cool. Very Collected.

SNAP MARIN SYMPHONY

Michelle and Daniel Barenbaum

Diana Lyster and Elaine Yee

Noralee Diana Monestere, Lyster andBill Elaine Bullock Yee

Lydia Sarkissian

Around Town Guests donned black tie or tango attire for the opening night Marin Symphony concert, which featured Grammy-nominated Quartet San Francisco and the Marin Symphony in a world premiere performance of orchestral jazz and Argentinean tango arrangements, with a cameo tango performance by Sandor & Parissa. In Larkspur, Sex and the City author Candace Bushnell appeared at the Lark Theater to celebrate her new book, One Fifth Avenue. This event was presented in association with Book Passage and included a conversation with

E.A.T.

Susan Banta, Susan Stewart, Denise Rocco-Zilber, Molli Milner

the author and never-before-seen footage of the second season of the television show Lipstick Jungle, based on Bushnell’s second novel and starring Brooke Shields. In Corte Madera founder Michael Cohen was there to celebrate the

WIPEOUT

opening of his Michael Stars store at the Village. Guests indulged in cocktails and appetizers while getting a peek at the fall 2008 collection. At Wipeout in Greenbrae legendary surfer and film producer Grant Washburn was on hand to celebrate the restaurant’s first anniversary. In West Marin around 150 guests came out for the E.A.T.: Education, Art and Tastings event to benefit the Nicasio School Foundation. The E.A.T. committee was headed by Susan Banta and Susan Stewart and the party was put on by Green Girls Events. At Sterling Vineyards, Friedman & Associates hosted a one-of-a-kind gathering complete with an aerial tram ride, a guided tasting of a three-vintage vertical of wine, and food from All Seasons Catering.

MICHAEL STARS

LARK THEATER

FRIEDMAN & ASSOCIATES

Michael Cohen, Suzanne Lerner

Susan Leipsic, Candace Bushnell, Bernice Baeza

Caryn Brady, Michelle Leeds

MARIN DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTO CREDIT: WIPE OUT/SHERI MONTGOMERY; E.A.T./JIM KRAVETS

Ryan, Tyler (as a shark), Nancy and Scooter Simmons

NAUGHTY + NICE

You’ll find everything you need to satisfy your sweet tooth and your sweetheart this holiday season at Town Center’s 65 unique shops and restaurants.

Over 65 unique shops and restaurants including:

* ANN TAYLOR LOFT * MEADOWLARK GALLERY CHAMPAGNE FRENCH BAKERY * NAPASTYLE * LUCY ACTIVEWEAR LINK WORKS * COLUMBINE * NAPASTYLE * MIRAGE JEWELS * Z GALLERIE SEE’S CANDIES

To wn C e n te r Gift C a r ds now available at the Town C enter Managem ent Offic e o r online at www.shoptowncenter.com

FREE GIFT WRAPPING AND SANTA PHOTOS!

We are located off the Tamalpais Drive exit. For more information, call 415-924-2961. Visit our 65 unique shops and restaurants including The Container Store, P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, west elm and more.

FA S H I O N TRENDS 2

Purely Red The Holiday Hue of Choice Gets Noticed 5 Whether you choose scarlet, sangria, cardinal or crimson, red is guaranteed to get a woman noticed. This holiday season, choose the hue that’s been — somer flaherty 1. Elsa Peretti wood bangle by Elsa Peretti, $395 at Tiffany and Co. (SF). 415.781.7000, tiffany.com 2. Gucci for UNICEF hobo, $4,590 at Gucci (SF). 877.482.2430, gucci.com 3. Pandora ring by Garnazelle, price upon request at Shreve and Co. (SF). 415.421.2600, shreve.com 4. Crimson cashmere shell by TSE, $375 at TSE (SF). 415.391.1112, tsecashmere.com 5. Sally dress by Trina Turk, $278 at trinaturk.com 6. Bryce clog by Tory Burch, $250 at Tory Burch (SF). 415.398.1525, toryburch.com

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTO: TIFFANY’S BRACELE T/JOS H HAS KIN; GAR NAZELL RING/ F RENCH TRAD E CO MM I S S I O N

associated with emotions that ﬁre up the soul and try red on for size.

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FA S H I O N

lifestyle Name: Alan Scofield Home: Mill Valley Occupation: Arts educator, teacher, choreographer and storyteller Describe your personal style. Keeping a Alan Scofield

Saturday mind alive in a Monday world.

wears many hats: a popular teacher, founding director of

What defines you? Being a dad for my daughter, a husband for my wife and a teacher in my community and knowing the wonderful children of Marin.

the nonprofit arts education

Who are your fashion influences? Early

agency, Young

Comme des Garçons and Yohji Yamamoto,

Imaginations;

(for) their poetic use of black. Lululemon for

dance faculty

yoga—very nice.

member at College of Marin;

Who are your inspirations dance-wise? Certainly Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire, the

Kiddo’s Pied

great stars. Jose Limon and Alvin Ailey

Piper of dance

too, for their grace and power. I could fill a

in the Mill Valley

magazine with my dance inspirers.

schools; and now an oracle extraordinaire with his website,

Where do you love to shop in Marin? Downtown Mill Valley, the little shops; near Peet’s, the mother ship.

thestoryhome.

What is always in your bag/pockets?

com, which

Quarters, keys and the blue bookmarks I

offers free audio

hand out to promote our new children’s

children’s stories.

storytelling website, thestoryhome.com. What is your best cheapo secret? iTunes, surely. What’s your fashion pet peeve? I don’t do

What is your view of Marin style? The savoring of life, health and growth. Going out to West Marin to experience (Whitman’s) “the vast pure spaces unconfined.” 48

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

P H OTO: BARBA RA RIES

peeves.

Where do you love to eat in Marin? For lunch, Comforts. Chicken salad, natch. Aftertheater soirees: Il Fornaio. Little Cafe Z, too! How do you spend your weekends? With the loveliest people in the world: the students who take my Saturday morning jazz dance class at Roco Dance and Fitness. Sunday, (wife) Sharon and I explore. Where do you go to pamper yourself? I stroll through Robson-Harrington Park in San Anselmo, do tai chi or yoga. And breathe. How would your friends describe you? Happy. What was the last book you read and why? The Waters of Shiloh, by Thomas Merton. His words restore me whenever I go too far or do too much. Do you have an all-time favorite children’s literary figure? Hans Christian Andersen, surely. He revealed the pure magic hidden in everyday life. Favorite dance show on TV? So You Think You Can Dance is terrific. Those kids defy gravity! What was the last movie you saw? The Burmese Harp. Remarkable. Favorite dance venue in Marin? At any Young Imaginations program. Roco Dance in Mill Valley is stunning. The College of Marin main stage. But if you mean nightlife, don’t ask me. I’m home resting my feet! If your life were a movie, what would be your theme song? “What I Did for Love,” from A Chorus Line. Seems right. MARINMAGAZINE.COM

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

FYI

FOR YOUR INFORMATION HO LI DAY

Holidays in the City

BY MIMI TOWLE

TEDDY BEAR TEA AT THE RITZ, CAROLS AT GRACE CATHEDRAL and window shopping Union Square are just a few December traditions in San Francisco. With the budget-inspired “staycation” on most agendas this year, a trip into the city for the night or just the day offers a low-cost getaway with big rewards. For instance, a stroll down Market Street will raise holiday spirits for free. Tipping their Santa hats to the past, the folks from the Market Street Association are celebrating the brilliance of yesteryear by reconstructing a “Path of Lights” from Second to Fifth Street, ending conveniently at the Westfield shopping center. Back in 1916, this promenade was lit from Steuart to Castro with yellow sodium vapor lamps; with a nod toward energy efficiency, the Path of Lights this year will be made with five-foot-wide LED snowflakes.

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

E-Zzz on the Wallet The upside of the economic downturn is deals on everything from the stuff on your shopping list to a night at a hip new hotel. Play Hotwire roulette for bargains or check out these three properties. VILLA FLORENCE This member of the Larkspur Collection hotel group helmed by Fairfax ultra-marathoner Karl Hoagland recently had a multimillion-dollar renovation. As the name suggests, the 182-room property’s design pays tribute to contemporary Italy. The adjoining Bar Norcini offers meals throughout the day and Italian wines by the glass. Members of AAA can save 20 percent on the best available rate and get a $25 gas card. 225 Powell St, 415.397.7700, villaflorence.com INTERCONTINENTAL Gleaming glass highrise meets Beach Blanket Babylon: an overnight package at this new 32-story tower gets you tickets to the longest-running show in town. Completed this year, the Intercontinental is walking distance to the MOMA and Yerba Buena Center for the Arts; a limo takes you to North Beach for the show. This holi-

Give the gift that will

day offer starts at $549 per couple and in-

calm your mind,

cludes deluxe room, dinner for two at the

revitalize your body

on-site critically acclaimed Luce, two tick-

and connect with your soul. An Evo Spa gift card.

ets to Beach Blanket Babylon, after-dinner drinks for two at Bar 888, and breakfast for two at Luce. 888 Howard St, 888.811.4273, intercontinentalsanfrancisco.com

May be purchased at the spa, by phone or online. ST. REGIS Cheaper than flying to New York for a show—just drive over the bridge. Make a night of it at the St. Regis with the “Holiday Magic with the Velveteen Rabbit” option. Besides deluxe digs, the $575 price includes

www.evo-spa.com 216 Strawberry Village, Mill Valley, CA 94941

a private pre-performance tea party at the hotel with visits from the show’s rabbit and fairy, plus two VIP seats for the performance

Call for Reservations 415.383.3223

at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Theatre

Monday – Saturday 9am – 9pm • Sunday 10am – 7pm

across the street. 125 Third St, 415.284.4000, stregis.com

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

Holiday Kid Fun! Lifetime memories don’t have to cost a lot of money; check out these festive family outings.

women’s clothing & accessories

Holiday ice skating is now happening in four city venues—including a first-time-ever rink in Union Square: unionsquareicerink.

Diane Von Furstenberg • Nanette Lepore • Rebecca Taylor • Milly • Twelfth Street

com. The Embarcadero Center ice is open ev-

Velvet • Ella Moss • Rachel Pally • Corey Lynn Calter • Splendid

ery day from November 12 through January

Michael Stars • Sanctuary • Twill 22 and lots more!

4; see embarcarderocenter.com for times

Denim Lines: True Religion • Paige • Hudson • J Brand • Rock and Republic

and fees. Yerba Buena’s year-round rink is

Shoes: Cole Haan • Nanette Lepore • Delman • Jeffrey Campbell

open too—go early to avoid the big crowds;

Sam Edelman • Dolce Vita • Frye • Lilly Pulitzer

415.820.3532, skatebowl.com. And the San Francisco Zoo once again offers ice skating (for an additional charge) to complement

Now

Ope

its Reindeer Romp, when real live reindeer Holly, Velvet, Peppermint and Belle return for the holidays to the delight of Bay Area kids; sfzoo.org The Palace of Fine Arts holds the Holiday Animation Film Festival in December, free for ages 3 and under, $11 for adults. Cap it off with a walk along Crissy Field; exploratorium.edu True traditionalists can hear music throughout December at historic Grace Cathedral atop Nob Hill, when the Choir of Men and Boys and others fill the Gothic space with favorite carols, sacred masterpieces and yuletide songs. Tickets $30 and under; for times and dates visit gracecathedral.org A ticket to San Francisco Ballet’s Nutcracker need not cost a bundle; pick seats a little farther from the stage for as little as $20 to see the production the New York Times has deemed “striking, elegant and beautiful.” sfballet.org/nutcracker Introduce your child to the timeless tale of grumpy old Scrooge for as little as $14. American Conservatory Theater’s A Christmas Carol is a classic that resurrects true holiday spirit year after year. $14; for times and dates, visit act-sf.org

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

Kismet Shoes 564 San Anselmo Avenue (next to Bubba’s) San Anselmo . 415.454.2622 Kismet 601 San Anselmo Avenue San Anselmo . 415.454.2629 www.shopkismet.net

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

F Y I COLLECTO R

SPIN CITY A Marin collector’s passion for an age-old Hanukkah toy BY MIMI TOWLE

ebra Bogaards, partner in the San

Francisco law firm Pave & Bogaards who’s often spotted driving around Mill

Valley in her convertible with the license plate TRIALSTAR, has a passion. Besides proudly discussing the doings of her two college-age daughters and being in trial, this feisty blond mom loves dreidels. At last count she had 135 of the traditional Hanukkah spinning tops, displayed in a custom-made cabinet in her kitchen. Could be that these toys take her back to who played handball against her garage door

assembled medley of dreidels as well. Fast-spin

does show a Jerusalem artist’s spinner hand-

and rode her bike to the beach. Or maybe their

to today, when she lends out her collection and

carved from olive wood ($2,300) and a late

Hebrew letters remind her of the three months

her menorah to a local Starbucks at holiday

19th-century pewter model from Eastern Europe

she spent on a kibbutz in Israel picking pears.

time. Her thoughts on exploring this fascination

($750), plus dozens of options for $50 or less.

At any rate, it started when Bogaards was plan-

here out loud? “I am excited,” she says. “No,

The Contemporary Jewish Museum Store in San

ning to entertain her daughter’s kindergarten

thrilled, maybe even a bit ferklempt.”

Francisco carries a wide variety in assorted mate-

class during the holidays with traditional Jewish

Are dreidels a bona fide collector’s item?

rials—wood, acrylic, dichroic glass, crystal, anod-

dishes like latkes and homemade applesauce.

Bonhams & Butterfields may not list any “dreidel

ized aluminum—for anywhere from 50 cents to

She decided to dazzle her little guests with an

transactions” of late, but a quick look on eBay

200 bucks. “When shopping for dreidels, I look for interesting, contemporary takes on this an-

MERRIAM-WEBSTER’S DEFINITION OF COLLECTION: an accumulation of

objects gathered for study, comparison or exhibition or as a hobby

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

cient Judaic object,” store director Kevin Grenon says. “I’m attracted to bold colors, whimsical designs and humor.”

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P H OTO: BARBA RA RIES

innocent days as little Debbie of Culver City

THE COLLECTOR REFLECTS At what point did you realize you were a collector? When I had to get special shelves made and holes drilled into a strip of plastic

D I S C O V E R M A R I N ’S M O S T E XT R A OR D I N A RY M A R K E T !

to showcase my growing number of dreidels. Or, when a friend gave me what I thought was the most hideous dreidel ever, and I put it with the other dreidels on the special shelf, and others admired it, (and) I realized that collecting dreidels meant accumulating a variety of dreidels that everyone could enjoy. When you think “dreidels,” what comes to mind? Being a small child in my family’s home, and sitting on the floor in a circle with my brothers, spinning a large blue plastic dreidel with gold painted letters. We each put two hazelnuts

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into the “pot” in the center and then started to play. When my dreidel fell onto the (Hebrew letter) gimmel, I would take all of the nuts in the pot and feel very happy. The smell of simmering

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latkes would mean our game was over and we were ready for a Hanukkah feast. What’s the meaning of the Hebrew letter on each side? They are the first letters of four words: nes (the letter nun), gadol (gimmel), hayah (hey) and sham (shin). Translated into English: A great miracle happened there. This refers to what happened after the Maccabees fought the Syrians. The Maccabees found that the ner tamid, or everlasting light, in the synagogue had only one drop of oil left, yet it burned for eight days. . . hence, a miracle! Of course, for the outnumbered Maccabees to successfully defend themselves against the Syrians is really the miracle. I also have some dreidels from Israel, so the fourth letter is different. The letter is pey, which stands for po, which simply means “here.” A great miracle happened here. I also have a very special “mistake” dreidel that my law partner, Bob Pave, found for me. It’s one of my favorites because it’s so unusual! Can you tell us which one is your most

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expensive or hardest to acquire? My most

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expensive are the sterling silver one from

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DECEMBER 2008

Tiffany’s, the stunning glass one from the Skirball museum in L.A. and the mixed sterling silver/14-karat-gold ones from Jerusalem by an Israeli artist. The hardest to acquire are with the “pey” from Israel. Of course, actually the most expensive probably are the five I bought on a three-hour delay at O’Hare airport. My husband convinced me to grab a taxi and go back to downtown Chicago to the Jewish Museum, which had been closed for Shabbat (Sabbath) the previous day, and buy whatever dreidels I wanted there. I am sure that the round-trip taxi fare was worth it! Any advice to potential collectors? Select items to add to your collection that you love. For example, I have a handmade beaded dreidel made in New Mexico that is beautiful and unusual. I have many by Limoges, and it’s fun to see each different pattern. I have some that Starbucks, Crate and Barrel, Papyrus and Cost Plus sold, which are very meaningful since it’s hard to find retailers who carry Judaica for Hanukkah. It’s so nice to go into an everyday store and see dreidels rather than being overwhelmed with Christmas ornaments everywhere. So follow your heart. Expect friends—in my case, my husband and my law partner—to add to your collection, even when you think you are “done” collecting. Your friends may become even more excited than you over your collection; plus, they know what to get you for your birthday! I even had an interviewee for a paralegal position at my law firm bring me back a lovely green Venetian glass dreidel from the oldest ghetto in Italy . . . she got the job! Do you plan to sell any of them? No. Perhaps I will donate them to a museum or give them to my daughters at some point. Where are your favorite places to shop for Judaica in the Bay Area? I look online or shop when I travel. In L.A., I love the Skirball museum and Museum of Tolerance gift shops. Here in the Bay Area, sometimes I’m lucky at the Meadowlark Gallery in the Corte Madera Town Center, and in the city; the Glass Pheasant, the JCC and Jewish Heritage Museum.

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

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F Y I PEO P LE

Family History Lives On

P H OTO C RED IT: TIM P ORTER

A designer’s products salute her famous relative’s glory days BY SOMER FLAHERTY

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

will always remember how lovely a

“I

person she was,” says Mill Valley resident Eva Beale of her husband’s fa-

mous aunt Edith. The women first met when Edith was in her 60s, long after the days of gilded society parties and a starring role in a shocking documentary. Edith was born in 1917, the only daughter of Phelan Beale and Edith Ewing Bouvier. To distinguish between her and her mother, people called her Little Edie. The first cousin of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis, she grew up as part of New York’s privileged high society and a social scene that included outings at the private Maidstone Club, prestigious schools, a debut at the Pierre Hotel and dates with wealthy bachelors. But in the summer of 1931 it all changed. Her father, Phelan, left the family, leaving Little Edie’s mother without money to care for herself, her home or her family. Even with the money gone, the two women refused to give up their East Hampton home, Grey Gardens. The mansion and its once magnificent grounds became decrepit, housing the two Edies and, some have said, 75 cats. The

OPPOSITE PAGE: Eva Beale holds her recently completed ﬁrst book in her Mill Valley home. THIS PAGE: Little Edie on the grounds of Grey Gardens.

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MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

National Enquirer exposed the squalor in 1972, SM

prompting Jackie Onassis to give money to help fix the home’s innumerable health code viola-

“ In moving here, I gained incredible freedom. Now I go where I want, when I want, knowing that everything I need today—and may need tomorrow—is right at my doorstep.”

tions; that same year, Albert and David Maysles began filming the now cult classic documentary Grey Gardens, which later inspired a hit 2006 Broadway musical and an upcoming movie starring Drew Barrymore. In earlier years the two Edies dreamed of being performers; in the documentary’s intimate portrait they are two women who found the freedom to be as eccentric as they wanted. After her mother’s death, Little Edie sold the house reportedly for a below-market $220,000 in 1979 to Ben Bradlee of Washington Post fame and his wife Sally Quinn, whose relatives live in Marin. The next year Eva Beale, engaged to marry Little Edie’s nephew Bouvier Beale, met Edie for the first time, at the rehearsal dinner at Gurney’s Inn in

Resident Annette Carrel – Sculptor and bon vivant

Montauk. “She was so sweet; I even found my wedding announcement in her collected items

Total freedom to experience joy every day.

after she died,” Eva recalls. She also found a

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that to be so romantic.” At the wedding recep-

Long Island newspaper article in which Edie had underlined a passage mentioning the couple had met on a blind date; “I think she found tion, “I will never forget, she asked the band to stop playing and she said that our wedding gift (from her) was a song she would sing for us. The song was ‘Toujours L’Amour’ and she wished us well. The band stopped, there was silence and everyone listened to her sing.” After the wedding, Eva and Edie kept in touch by mail and phone. “Both her letters and conversations were always so interesting. She came to California and visited us. She was so intrigued by Mill Valley. Edie called our Mill Valley home a ‘tree house’ because

of its hillside location. She also came to our Stinson house at the time and she absolutely loved it there.” When Edie passed away in 2002, Eva started SM

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perusing her journals, poetry and photographs. “I felt like I was living [in] her era and I was enjoying her lifestyle through the items she left behind.” She wrote a book, recently released, called Edith Bouvier Beale of Grey Gardens: A Life in Pictures, and started the Grey Gardens

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

Collection, a line of one-of-a-kind jewelry and other items, styled after vintage estate sale and

www. sho pg r e e na ppl e s. com

flea market finds, that remind her of her aunt. A passionate appreciator of antiques and decor, Eva wanted to evoke Edie’s glory days, to hark back beyond the last years at Grey Gardens and recall the beautiful model who would frequent the Stork Club and fend off proposals from Joe Kennedy Jr. and J. Paul Getty. “When Edie passed away she told me about a box of jewels in a safe deposit box,” Eva recalls. “When I received them I was amazed how beautiful the pieces were, and they made a real

The National Enquirer exposed the squalor in 1972, prompting Jackie Onassis to give money to help ﬁx the home’s innumerable health code violations; that same year, Albert and David Maysles began ﬁlming the now cult classic documen-

Fo r the g i rl who g e t s what she wants

tary Grey Gardens. statement.” These inspired the collection’s colorful velvet and satin cuff bracelets with rhinestones and ivory satin-and-rhinestone bracelets for brides-to-be. Eva’s website includes both a Grey Gardens Past section, purveying authentic vintage pieces and antiques, and a Grey Gardens Present section, offering costume jewelry and replicas of opera glasses and other items Edie typically wore, as well as paintings, home decor pieces, and handmade journals and photo albums. “And it is only the beginning. I am working on some beautiful fabrics for pillows and also a china pattern that will be com-

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ing in the next year or so,” Eva adds. Eva Beale has been able to link both past and present, something Edie found hard to do—beautifully emulating the style her aunt staunchly held on to despite everything else life threw her way.

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

green apples 1 1 0 c a l e d o n i a s tr e e t, s a u s a l i to • 4 1 5 . 331.8227 MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

F Y I A RT

Looking Ahead MAC executive director Jeanne Bogardus takes a curtain call BY DANIEL JEWETT Bread & Roses group, bringing entertainment to residents of institutions. “My first successful grant there was just me giving it a shot,” she says. Bogardus figured out she had a talent for landing grants and raising funds and in 1990 finally joined MAC, where she found some of the same artists and patrons who are still around today. “I was fortunate to arrive at a time when the groundwork and the essential infrastructure where in place,” she notes. “I was able to move us forward.” Sure, she was able to increase the staff, bring the budget up to its current level of more than $700,000 and help get $1 million in the hands of about 600 artists over the years, but her coworkers credit her with something even deeper. “She really broadened my fter 18 years of leading the Marin Arts Council to

appreciation for different types of art and taught me about

new heights, Jeanne Bogardus is stepping down at

the soul of an artist,” says associate director Diane Dunn.

the end of the year and changing her perspective.

“Jeanne has an affinity and passion for being with and in-

“I’m going to be in the audience and participate that way

Jim Shay, board president for the last six years, agrees.

volved in the arts? Yes; it is my passion and my life’s work.”

“She has been here so long that a great portion of [MAC’s]

Indeed, it is hard to image the energetic and outgoing

character is owed to her,” he says, adding that the executive

Bogardus following any other course in life, as her enthu-

director has been an invaluable community liaison. “Thank

siasm for the arts—and maybe more important, for figur-

God she has the interest and her heart in the right place.”

ing out how to get money into the hands of those who create art—has been her mission for the last 25 years.

MARIN

spired by artists on a daily basis.”

now,” the 63-year-old says with a laugh. “Will I still be in-

One of the key early tasks, Bogardus says, was improving the visibility of the fledgling arts council and strengthen-

It started when the San Rafael resident moved to

ing its relationship with the county, an association she feels

California in the early ’70s and became involved with the

is stronger than ever with MAC’s participation in the county

DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

P H OTO: TIM P ORTER

fair, special coordinated exhibits and the cultural services commission. “It’s an investment and the return is art in our community and our culture,” she points out. That investment and its payoff were obvious at a recent event at the Marin Community Foundation where some of the artists who received the 40 or more individual artists grants given by MAC each year showed off the fruits of their labor.

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“To be recognized by them and helped financially helped me define myself as an artist in the community,” says Sausalito photographer Robert Bengston, who felt the recognition was as important as the financial aid. “It’s amazing to hear, ‘Yes, we think you’re an artist and we want to help.’ ” Other artists were grateful for services that

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went along with the grant, including the opportunity to participate in more shows and the related business-of-art course MAC offers. Forest Knolls artist Judith Selby Lang, who received one of the larger grants of $10,000, credits MAC with helping her dream big and create a monument to the plastic that washes up on beaches, which was displayed right in front of San Francisco’s City Hall. “The grant empowered me,” she says. “I’ve always thought big, but being able to realize it was another thing.” As Bogardus surveyed the art on display at

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the foundation event and chatted with artists and donors, she took a moment to reflect on the challenges that lay ahead for MAC. “The nonprofit arts sector is changing with the Internet and new forms of media. I don’t know what it is going to look like but it isn’t going

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to be the same. It is going to be an exciting time and the new leaders will have to redefine it.” She adds that old sources of funding, such as foundations, will not contribute as much as they once did. “But the staff and board that are still here

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are great,” Bogardus says. “I’m leaving an organization that doesn’t need me anymore and you can’t ask for anything more than that.” To l e a r n m o r e a b o u t t h e M a r i n Arts Council call 415.499.8350 or visit

Friedman & Associates and its employees are independent of and are not employees or agents of Charles Schwab & Co. Inc. (“Schwab”). Schwab does not prepare, verify or endorse information distributed by Friedman & Associates. The IMPACT Award is not an endorsement, testimonial endorsement, recommendation or referral to Friedman & Associates with respect to its investment advisory and other services.

marinarts.org

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DECEMBER 2008

LI F E

LIFE AT THE

BY J I M WO O D

MARIN

P H OTO S T I M P O RT ER

DECEMBER 2008

REDWOODS

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DECEMBER 2008

Joseph Levine, 76 “These are now my ‘harvest years’ although I still try to help others— that’s what makes me happy.”

“IT ’S A CULTURE, NOT A PLACE.”

N A ROUTINE ENTITLED “HOW TO STAY YOUNG,” the late comedian George Carlin departed from his usual irreverent shtick and in a somewhat somber tone offered this advice: “Throw away nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and height. Keep only your cheerful friends; the grouches pull you down.” And: “Keep learning. Learn about computers, crafts, gardening, whatever.”

Carlin might have combined all of the above in a fourth recommendation: “Aw, the heck with

it; just move into The Redwoods. It’s a community of seniors in Mill Valley.” Located across from Tamalpais High School, The Redwoods, built in 1972, has 330 units on 10 level acres brimming with trees and gardens whose greenery complements the wildness of neighboring Bothin Marsh. More than 330 people, average age 87, live there. And they do so in ways that make The Redwoods a unique place, one that, as executive director Barbara Solomon puts it, is “consistently breaking the mold as far as retirement communities go.” 66

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DECEMBER 2008

Frieda Engel, 89 “Life’s an adventure to be lived to the fullest—yet not just for one’s self.”

Resident Joseph Levine, 76, describes The Redwoods this way: “This isn’t a place. It’s a culture.”

With four living categories—Independent, Residential, Personalized Assisted and Skilled Nursing—for which fees vary according to the ser-

One direct expression of that culture is Seniors for Peace, an anti-

vices provided, The Redwoods provides one of the few affordable hous-

war program that brings more than 130 residents together in weekly

ing options for seniors in Marin. The downside: The waiting list for

meetings, seminars, speaking events and, most visibly, Friday after-

occupancy ranges from three months to five years, depending on cat-

noon peace demonstrations at Miller Avenue and Camino Alto, where

egory. “It changes on an almost daily basis,” says Solomon, who has a

for the last seven years 30 or more residents have hoisted placards,

staff of 135, of whom 40 percent have been with The Redwoods 10

banged on drums and chanted such slogans as “When governments

years or longer.

lie, democracies die.” “But wait,” comedian George Carlin might joke “there’s more.”

Here is about when George Carlin would say, “Enough talk—let’s meet some people.”

With help from College of Marin and other organizations, The Redwoods holds classes in opera appreciation, tai chi, yoga, ceramics,

JOSEPH LEVINE, 76

oil painting, computer use and strength training.

“I’m most proud of the fact I stayed the course in following my ideals. I

“We also have a communal organic garden that two dozen people

never expected to get rich; I just wanted to help others, and somehow I

tend,” Solomon says, “and a Step Up–Step Out Club involving 100 resi-

found my niche. These are now my ‘harvest years’ although I still try to

dents, who so far this year have walked or hiked a grand total of more than

help others—that’s what makes me happy. For example, my wife plays

11,000 miles.”

violin and I sing to people in nursing care who are confined by their

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

condition. When will I die? I recently received a Safe F ood H andling

KATIE DIEPENBROCK, 82

certificate that’s good until 2 0 1 3 , which sounds fine with me. What will

“I’m excited about the new cosmology. I just saw the D V D

happen when I die? There won’t be angels playing harps, but I think

Universe, based on a book by Thomas Berry and Brian Swimme. It’s

the good ( things) I’ve done will live after me. H owever, they weren’t

about the birth of the universe and the formation of human conscious-

done because I was afraid of hell—I did them because they were the

ness. I’ve been on a spiritual path most of my life. What happens when

right things to do.”

I die? I feel strongly that after death you continue to open up to life.

Awakening

L evine is especially proud of the slogan he coined: “This isn’t a

D eath is followed by life and life by death. When a fetus is in the

place, it’s a culture.” H e was raised in Brooklyn’s R idgewood neighbor-

womb, it’s safe and comfortable, with no idea of any other kind of life.

hood, graduated college in 1 9 5 3 , has been married twice and is the

Then it is born and a new state of existence begins. R ight now, to all of

father of four boys ( “all men of integrity”) , three stepchildren and 1 1

us, death is an unknown. H owever, as I said, I really believe that after

grandchildren. H is current activities include Seniors for Peace, predawn

death you continue to open up to life.”

pick-up of food ( hence the Safe H andling certificate) and flowers that

D iepenbrock graduated from U C Berkeley in 1 9 4 8 and married short-

are donated to The R edwoods, and organizing music, literary and reli-

ly thereafter, raising seven children while living in Sacramento. After 3 0

gious programs for R edwoods residents.

years of marriage, she found herself divorced—and months later, her 2 1 -year-old daughter died in a mountaineering accident. Seeking solace,

FRIEDA ENGEL, 89

D iepenbrock enrolled in Berkeley’s Graduate Theological U nion Seminary,

“I’m proud I was able to put it all together and keep it together. M y

then worked with women’s retreat centers, and did organic farming on

husband, Joe, and I were ahead of our times—in the late ’3 0 s, we lived

O rcas Island, Washington, where she was inspired by “witnessing indig-

together before marriage and had many African-American friends. I

enous people communicating with migratory whales.” After waiting seven

received a graduate degree from Columbia in N ew Y ork. We lived in

years for an apartment to open, she has been at The R edwoods just nine

Chicago for 1 7 years and then moved to San F rancisco, where my spe-

months.

cialty was sex education for social workers. After I retired, I was a couples therapist. If there is a key to a successful relationship, it’s that each

BILL USHER, 91

partner have a deep understanding of the other partner’s needs. L ife’s

“I’ve never written a book, I’m not a celebrity; I have no claim to fame. To

an adventure to be lived to the fullest—yet not just for one’s self. Its

me, my family is what’s all-important. I have two daughters, four grand-

value includes what one has given to the world in the way of energy,

children and four great grandchildren. We get together often and it’s al-

ideas and ideals.”

ways a really nice, close time. M y major involvement at The R edwoods is

Engel suffers from glaucoma and Sjö gren’s syndrome, which af-

demonstrating for peace on F riday afternoons. I feel strongly about it. If I

fects glands that produce tears and saliva. She has a prosthesis in one

could talk to President Bush, I’d tell him 9 / 1 1 was justification for invad-

eye and only one-third vision in the other. Six years ago, she moved

ing Afghanistan but our going into Iraq was wrong in the first place. We

to The R edwoods, in her words, “kicking and screaming,” but now

took our eye off the ball. It was a terrible, terrible mistake.”

she “thoroughly enjoys” life there. Engel was married for 6 0 years;

U sher was born in N ew Y ork City but grew up in L os Angeles’ Boyle

“I was just mad about the man,” she says. H er days now include at-

H eights neighborhood and graduated from U CL A in 1 9 3 9 . F or much

tending Great Books discussion groups, exercise classes and talking

of his adult life, he and his brother ran a market and specialty store in

with her friends. “And I’m especially proud of my role in getting the

downtown L .A. After moving to M arin in 1 9 9 6 , he volunteered at the

Seniors for Peace program up and running.”

M ill V alley Public L ibrary. H e now enjoys reading, playing poker and

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

Bill Usher, 91 Katie Diepenbrock, 82 “I really believe that after death you continue to open up to life.”

“I’m not a celebrity; I have no claim to fame. To me, my family is what’s all-important.”

Richard Moore, 88 “I’m an admitted overachiever. So, what’s the most signiﬁcant accomplishment of my life? I haven’t yet closed that book.” MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

Audrey Hazen, 66 “I am among those who can see the tiny seeds, so I’m heavily involved in the planting of the garden.”

Elizabeth Moody, 80 “I am concerned Marin County is growing in all the wrong directions.”

talking politics with friends, plus banging on his drum at the Friday af-

children. He attends exercise classes three times a week, teaches line

ternoon peace demonstrations.

dancing on Thursdays, and on most evenings enjoys either a shot of a single-malt Scotch or a nice cabernet.

RICHARD MOORE, 88 “I’m an admitted overachiever. So, what’s the most significant accom-

ELIZABETH MOODY, 80

plishment of my life? I haven’t yet closed that book. I can, however,

“I attend meetings many nights a week; however, tonight I’ll be home,

say one aspect of my professional life is closed because I never plan to

which is fine. For years, I’ve been concerned about affordable housing

return to it: that’s my career in alternative broadcasting with the found-

and now I am concerned Marin County is growing in all the wrong

ing of the Pacifica Foundation and radio station KPFA in Berkeley. What

directions. Homes are getting bigger and more expensive. Sure, pre-

I now regard as my profession is my work in poetry. Eighteen years

serving all the open space is nice, but we’ve gone overboard. We are

ago, I retired and said it was to work full time in this difficult field. In

starting to lose our diversity and becoming an enclave for the wealthy.

early 2010 UC Berkeley Press will release Writing the Silences, a col-

I hope to see more mixed-use zoning, where housing and retail coexist

lection of my poems from 1946 to 2008. I’m proud of this accomplish-

and people can walk instead of driving all the time. However, it’s hard

ment—it puts a premium on my hanging around for at least a couple

not to get discouraged—I guess that’s where my religion, my spiritual-

more years.”

ity, comes in. I know my God will be there to help me.”

In addition to these achievements, Moore was also a ballet danc-

Moody, a respected name in Marin housing circles, graduated from

er, part of KQED’s original staff and a documentary filmmaker, with

USC in 1948 and has three children, eight grandchildren, and one great

more than 110 titles to his credit. He leads a monthly foreign policy

grandchild. She and her husband divorced after 30 years of marriage.

discussion group at The Redwoods that attracts up to 60 residents.

Since 1965, when she lived in Novato, she has advocated for workforce

Moore has been married three times, once for 40 years, and has six

housing, mostly through the League of Women Voters and EAH. Since

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

Osmond Molarsky, 99 “For me, the answer to staying young has been getting a consuming hobby or involvement.”

2001, she has chaired the Mill Valley Affordable Housing Committee

My First One Hundred Years. “Writing is not my hobby,” he says, “it’s hard

and served on Marin’s Housing Leadership Alliance. She is especially

work. It’s what keeps me going. I recommend it.” Molarsky, whose second

proud of the recently opened affordable housing units on San Clemente

wife Peggy Hindes died five years ago, lives and works in a studio apart-

Drive in Corte Madera.

ment at The Redwoods, which he chose for its informality and good food.

OSMOND MOLARSKY, 99

AUDREY HAZEN, 66

“How do I feel? A bit shaky walking. It’s like I am crossing Niagara Falls

“I’ve been lucky. I became proficient in Portuguese during my five years

on a high wire—and I’m on stilts. For me, the answer to staying young

in Brazil with the Peace Corps; then I taught English as a second lan-

has been getting a consuming hobby or involvement. You live longer if

guage for 20 years at an East Bay middle school. I’m also fortunate to be

there is something you really want to do. My passions have been writing,

with Betty, my life partner for the past 21 years. In addition, I help with

sailing and tennis. I’m thankful both my wives enjoyed sailing. In 1961,

the Step Up–Step Out hiking and walking program and love gardening.

my second wife and I sailed up the coast of California from L.A. to San

It’s like therapy for me; I totally forget about everything else. I am among

Francisco in our 1910 wooden cutter. However, the defining moment in

those who can see the tiny seeds, so I’m heavily involved in the plant-

my life came later, when I was 75. I had been taking tennis lessons for a

ing of the garden. Betty and I had to wait over five years to get into The

year and one day served an ace past my instructor. His look of bewilder-

Redwoods, but now, after 16 months, we’re so at home here.”

ment, even shock, was something I’ll never forget.”

Hazen was born in Wisconsin, the oldest of nine children. Before

This soon-to-be-centenarian wrote for radio’s Cavalcade of America

joining the Peace Corps, she participated in social justice efforts with

series, scripted an award-winning one-act play and several navy train-

Martin Luther King Jr. and Cesar Chavez and led literacy and voter reg-

ing films and authored 16 children’s books. At the urging of his friend,

istration drives in the South. She says she “does what she can and then

Isabel Allende, Molarsky has just completed a four-hundred page memoir,

lets go,” and avoids “burnout” by taking good care of myself.”

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

H OME

DECK THE HOLIDAYS TRADITION AND FLAIR BLEND HAPPILY IN A BEAUTY MOGUL’S HOME

BY P. J . B R E M I ER

P H OTO S B A R B A R A R I E S

THE TIBURON HILLSIDE HOUSE KEITH AND LESLIE BLODGETT purchased four years ago had a number of great selling points—a wonderful bay view and sunny exposure, marble and wood ﬂoors, large family spaces. There was only one drawback: it was architecturally confusing. “It had a schizophrenic personality,” as interior and architectural designer Jessica Hall Grace of Jessica Hall Associates delicately suggests.

The challenge for the Larkspur designer and her design team was threefold. The house needed a definitive architectural style for the exterior, a sense of cohesion inside and intensive visual interest for its occupants. Their client, Leslie Blodgett, CEO of San F rancisco skin care and cosmetics company Bare Escentuals, has spent her professional life immersed in color and glamour, including an early stint at the famed Max F actor studio in Los Angeles. She wanted the same feeling of panache in the home she shares with her husband, K eith, and their 16-year-old son, Trent. During the Christmas season, comfort and tradition also figure prominently into the mix. “Christmas is totally spent at home and it’s all about

ABOVE TOP : Leslie Blodgett chose the most

making cookies and watching movies,” Blodgett says. “K eith does all the cooking and Trent and I

vibrant recommendation for the exterior color. ABOVE: Keith, Leslie and Trent Blodgett. OPPOSITE: Detail of dining table setting created by Jessica Hall Associates.

stay in our pj’s all Christmas day.” The living and dining areas are the primary setting for the holiday decorations. K eith strings the lights; Leslie and Trent unpack the ornaments their family has collected over the years. A garland of evergreens with small purple (Leslie’s favorite color) berries is draped over the mantel. U nderneath four stockings are hung, one for each member of the family(the fourth is K iko, their R hodesian R idgeback). The showstopper, though, is the glittering 12-foot Christmas tree centered under the chandelier. “It has to have colored lights,” Leslie says. “We never went through the white light stage.”

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DECEMBER 2008

Persimmon walls with aubergine alcoves in the living room, purple and mauve walls in the lower-level entertainment space, lime-green walls in the oﬃce, a warm coral for the guest room and blue for the master bedroom.

Remodel Team ❋ architectural and interior designer Jessica Hall Associates

❋ contractor and landscape contractor Alf Partridge, AMP Construction

❋ hardscape Jessica Hall Associates

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DECEMBER 2008

In fact, it was that large pewter-and-crys-

reconfiguring the peaked roof to a flat one,

OPPOSITE ABOVE : Persimmon walls in the

tal Venetian chandelier, which she spotted in

and changing the cotton-candy-pink exteri-

Jessica Hall Associates’ Larkspur showroom

or to an integral color stucco finish in a bold

Lunaria, that began the metamorphosis of

blood-orange.

entryway set the stage for the dramatic color choices throughout the home. OPPOSITE BELOW : Jessica Hall Grace, principal designer of Jessica Hall Associates.

her “schizophrenic” new home.

“We offered Keith and Leslie choices,”

Grace is used to challenges. Her firm

says Grace, “but Leslie has great courage and

redesigned the Mill Valley home of chef

picked our most vibrant recommendation for

Roxanne Klein; a three-story Sausalito house-

the exterior color, which is not like any other

boat recently featured in California Home &

house on the hill.”

Design; and a family home in Sonoma for the

Blodgett chose the boldest colors for the

Sebastianis. She has collaborated with chef

interior, too: persimmon walls with auber-

and cookbook author Regina Charbonneau

gine alcoves in the living room, purple and

on three of her Bay Area restaurants, de-

mauve walls in the lower-level entertain-

signed the interiors of 18 California Federal

ment space, lime-green walls in the office, a

banks in Los Angeles within three months

warm coral for the guest room and blue for

and is creating a new, upscale look for select

the master bedroom.

Northern California Pennzoil stations.

Except for the orange walls in the fam-

For the three-story Blodgett home, Grace

ily room, inspired by the sunrises and sunsets

transformed the architectural focus into

visible through the windows, all room col-

California Mediterranean style, scaling back

ors are pulled from the living room ceiling,

the porte cochere, adding eaves and columns

where a classic mural representative of the

to the front facade and a vaulted loggia run-

four seasons in feminine form was painted by

ning from the garden to the family room,

English portraitist George Dawnay.

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Family Recipes ❋ THE BLODGETTS’ CHRISTMAS EVE POSOLE 1/4 cup vegetable oil 2 lbs. lean pork, cubed 2 onions, chopped 2 T minced garlic 4 15-oz. cans hominy “Each ceiling in the house had to be important,” Grace adds. The skylight over the uphol-

4 or 5 New Mexico dried red chile pods,

stered walls in the powder room is etched with stars; marbled paper runs the length of the up-

stems and seeds removed, broken into

stairs hallways; a cove was created in the entertainment space; a filigree pattern is painted over

pieces

Venetian plaster in the master bedroom; and in other cases, the ceiling is a color that contrasts

5 cups chicken broth

with surrounding walls.

1/2 cup coarsely chopped cilantro

Blodgett says she “just wanted interesting colors, different colors in every room and nothing

Salt to taste

I had ever seen before. It couldn’t be safe; it had to take risks and it had to keep my attention. If I sit in my living room, I have to have a million things to look at in order to focus. I can’t focus

Heat oil in large heavy pot. Brown pork

staring at a white wall.”

on all sides. Remove and set aside. Sauté

She insisted on being surrounded by stimulating patterns, textures and styles that were both

onions until golden. Add garlic and sauté

sophisticated and welcoming. Grace introduced silk and wool fabrics; paisley, leopard, leaf and

brieﬂy. Add browned pork, hominy, chiles,

striped patterns; and vintage intermixed with modern furnishings.

broth and half the cilantro. Bring to a

The foyer’s empire-style chaise holds its own against an acrylic floral chandelier from Ironies

boil. Reduce heat and simmer until pork is

in the family room and two custom pieces from Lunaria, a glass wave-shaped bar in the down-

tender, about 1 hour. Stir in the remaining

stairs entertainment room and the living room’s étagère, inspired by Blodgett’s penchant for

cilantro before serving.

glamour and called the She Vitrine. Contemporary and classic mingle in the home’s artwork, too. Blodgett’s original black-and-

❋ KEITH BLODGETT’S

white stills of Hollywood leading ladies from the Max Factor museum and 1930s couture draw-

CHRISTMAS MORNING

ings discovered in a Paris flea market find their place among more current pieces.

BLOODY MARY

At Christmastime when the tree is lit, and wrapped presents and pretty gift baskets overflow-

1 oz. vodka

ing with Bare Escentuals products are stashed under the tree, “the house is just filled with a real

6 to 8 oz. V8 juice

sense of beauty, abundance and fun,” says Grace.

1 dash ground black pepper

This year, as always, the family has its traditional Christmas Eve supper of New Mexican po-

1 dash Tabasco

sole, tracks Santa Claus’s progress on the Internet, wakes up on Christmas to a plate of half-eaten

3 to 4 dashes of Worcestershire

cookies and a “nibbled” carrot, sips Bloody Marys and looks forward to an evening spread of

1/8 tsp. horseradish

goose, mashed potatoes, brussels sprouts, green beans and apple and pumpkin pies. ‘

1 wedge of lemon, squeezed

And “even though Trent is 16,” says Blodgett with a chuckle, “Keith will still sprinkle baking soda on the floor from the fireplace to the Christmas tree and walk through it leaving a trail of

Mix all ingredients and pour into a glass

Santa’s footprints. We just roll our eyes and laugh.”

of ice. Garnish and stir with celery stalk. MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

JOURNEY

MAYOR TOM CROMWELL LEADS BAY AREA DOCTORS INTO IRAQ

BELVE DE R E T ABOVE : The 14-story Al-Rasheed Hotel, built by Saddam Hussein in 1982, was the site of a two-day medical seminar that involved 30 anesthesiologists

from the Baghdad area and four doctors from the San Francisco Bay Area. OPPOSITE : The skyline of the International Zone, formerly known as the Green Zone, also includes the Iraqi Parliament Building (at left) and the former Iraq Defense Ministry (center).

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I T LO O K E D L I K E A T Y P I CA L D O C TO RS’ S E M I N A R . The room had a high ceiling and was graciously appointed. During a mid-morning break, the doctors balanced their cups of coffee and discussed catheter infections, surgery during pregnancy, even organ transplants. In many other ways, though, the gathering was anything but typical. The conversation was tense and purposeful. N o one told clever stories or traded jokes. Laughter was rare. Three of the six women had their hair covered by scarves. Most of all, this continuing medical education course in anesthesiology was inside the Al-R asheed H otel in Baghdad and many of the participants were emerging from two decades of dictatorship and five years of near anarchy. “This is fantastic; we haven’t had a conference like this in years,” said Dr. Sharaf Az iz , a 66-year-old Baghdad resident and London-trained anesthesiologist who arranged the two-day seminar under the auspices of the International Medical Corps. Their efforts were complemented—

one might say inspired—

by a physician 10,000

miles away: Dr. Tom Cromwell, the mayor of Belvedere and an anesthesiologist at California P acifi c Medical Center in San F rancisco. “Our visit’s objective,” Cromwell, also 66, explained during an airport stopover in Amman, Jordan, en route to Iraq, “is to help with the restructuring of Iraqi medical specialties following the fall of Saddam.” Cromwell, who’d made a similar journey to the Middle East in 2004 , said Saddam H ussein nearly destroyed Iraqi medicine during his 25 -year rule. “Medical care went from being the best in the Middle East to among the world’s worst,” Cromwell said. “We’re here to start reversing that trend.” Comparable visits, funded by a $3 million grant from the U .S. State Department, have been— and will be— made by U .S. physicians specializ ing in emergency medicine, orthopedics, psychiatry and psychology, internal medicine, plastic surgery as well as anesthesiology. Also, the outreach effort by the Americans is not war-related. It’s intended to serve the civilian population as hostilities hopefully wind down. Cromwell’s Bay Area group included Drs. Barry R ose, 5 3 , of Sausalito and Gersh Levinson, 65 , and Derrick H aerle, 3 7, both of San F rancisco— and this reporter.

O BAGH DA D S TO RY & P H OTO S J I M WO O D

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From Amman to Erbil

Then he launched into a 30-minute presentation of the anesthe-

We flew Royal Jordanian Airlines in the middle of the night from

siological aspects of an organ transplant surgery, be it bone marrow,

Amman, Jordan, to Erbil (also spelled Arbil and Irbil), one of the old-

kidney, liver, cornea or even heart replacement. In the process, he men-

est continuously inhabited cities in the world and the regional capital

tioned “organ donating,” “cadaver harvesting” and the often-lengthy le-

of Kurdistan, the autonomous (and mostly peaceful) region in northern

gal matter of how, in the United States, one is “declared legally dead.”

Iraq. It’s the site of immense construction activity, including an inter-

The latter topics attracted numerous questions. One was from Allah

national airport being built with U.S. financial assistance and massive

Yousif, Ph.D., of Sulaymaniya, a city two hours to the east.

apartment structures with United Arab Emirates backing.

“In the Muslim world rapid burial is critical while legal issues aren’t

As we checked into the surprisingly upscale Erbil International

foremost,” he said, “so how in the U.S. are organs kept vital for extended

Hotel, Cromwell wondered about attendance at the two-day seminar,

time periods?” Cromwell’s answer included references to donor pledg-

which would be conducted in English, a language nearly all Iraqi phy-

es, cryogenics and failures caused by our legal complexities. During the

sicians speak. “Honestly,” he said, “I’ve no idea how many doctors will

break, Yousif told us that in 1999 he was jailed for 65 days for making a

show up. It could be four; it could be 40.” Attendance was question-

negative comment about Saddam. “But my father, thank goodness, came

able because the seminar started the day after the end of Ramadan, the

up with enough money that I received lenient treatment,” Yousif said.

monthlong Muslim religious observance.

“But I knew by their screams others weren’t so fortunate.”

By 9 a.m. the next day, October 6, 70 Iraqi anesthesiologists were

When the presentations resumed, Sausalito’s Dr. Barry Rose’s top-

seated in the Ministry of Health lecture hall. After introducing his team,

ic was “Regional Anesthesia and Pain Management in Adults,” fol-

Dr. Cromwell explained the thinking behind their presentations. “From

lowed by Dr. Levinson with “General Anesthesia for Cesarean Section,”

a medical standpoint, we recognize the challenges you’ve been facing—

then young Dr. Derrick Haerle presented “Blood Transfusions in the

not just in the last five years,” he said, “but for over two decades under

Operating Room and ICU.” After insightful questioning, the seminar ad-

your previous administration.” As a result, Cromwell said, “we’ve aimed

journed at 5:30 p.m. Dr. Aziz, who was traveling with us, declared,

our talks midway between the latest advances in anesthesiology and

“This day has been very successful.” Belvedere’s Mayor Tom Crowell

the more basic approaches.”

added, “I agree. It went really well.”

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DECEMBER 2008

The next day followed a similar pattern – a series of 30- and 60-minute presentations followed by lively question-and-answer sessions, with interruptions for snacks and lunch. “Frankly, for me, during the breaks and meals are when some of the best information exchanges occurred,” said Levinson. Later, the group visited Erbil’s Rizgary Hospital, where Rose donned scrubs and demonstrated local anesthetic techniques he uses for surgeries involving the hand, arm or upper shoulder. The Iraqi doctors attentively followed every step of the procedure being performed on a local patient and then inundated Rose with questions. With work finished, we were given a tour of Erbil, a city whose population is four times that of Marin County, about 1,000,000. We traveled freely about the city, which, thanks to its homogeneous Kurdish Sunni population, has been spared the destruction of the war. The local economy appeared to be booming, with tall cranes jutting into the sky and dense traffic clogging the streets. Our stops included the 600-year-

OPPOSITE , FROM LEFT : During a break, Belvedere’s Mayor Tom Cromwell (center, right) discusses medical procedures with Iraqi anesthesiologists. Working with the International Medical Corps, Baghdad’s Dr. Sharaf Aziz organized the exchange of information between American and Iraqi doctors. ABOVE CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT : In Erbil’s Rizgary Hospital, Dr. Barry Rose (center) demonstrates a brachial plexus block prior to surgery on an Iraqi patient’s shoulder; Rizgary Hospital; Dr. Fawaz Hazim Ahmed, of the Teaching Hospital in Diayala Province, completes a post-seminar evaluation.

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Following their two-day seminar, the four Bay Area doctors toured Erbil’s recently completed Al-Hajj Jalil Khayat Mosque (below left) and a colorful museum-bazaar in the city’s 600-year-old citadel (below right).

old citadel on a plateau overlooking the city, shopping at a bustling souk, snacking on kebabs, naan bread and tea in a crowded, walk-up cafe, and touring the massive two-year-old Al-H ajj Jalil Khayat M osque, which can accommodate 1 ,5 0 0 supplicants. The day ended on a warm evening with a traditional Kurdish fish barbecue. War was the furthest thing from our minds—but tomorrow it was on to Baghdad.

Baghdad and the International Zone O ur anxiety level rose as we headed to the airport and the 9 0 -minute flight into Baghdad. Adding to our tension, at the terminal we learned the Iraqi Airways Boeing 7 3 7 was delayed for four hours. O nce airborne, I wrote in my journal, “N othing below but parched, barren, level land, miles of it.” Then, as we got closer: “It’s Baghdad’s vastness that’s impressive—it goes as far as the eye can see.” We were relieved when our landing didn’t involve the expected “corkscrew” descent in order to evade hostile ground fire—hopefully, this meant security had improved. O nce again, an International M edical Corps delegation greeted us. After four security checks, we loaded ourselves ( and baggage) into a 1 9 9 8 M ercedes with lead doors and bulletproof windows for the six-mile notorious drive once known as “the World’s Toughest Commute” into the International Z one ( previously known as the Green Z one) . The drive, thankfully, was uneventful. Eighteen-foot blast walls lined much of the way—many of them featuring painted-on bucolic scenes and joyful settings.

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Jim Wood in Baghdad’s International Zone

A Week in Iraq IRAQIS SHARE THEIR THOUGHTS WITH A CALIFORNIA VISITOR “Considering the amount of oil our country has, American policy regarding Iraq will never change no matter who is elected their president—so I don’t think they will be leaving that quickly despite what Barack Obama says.” rizgar ali, taxi driver in erbil, the capital of kurdistan “In 1984, when I was in high school and Saddam was in power, we wore skirts and never wore scarves. Now, women wear scarves and I do not like it. It’s all because fundamentalists have come into power. I believe in the Koran and when I meet my God, maybe then I’ll wear a scarf, but not now. Life with Saddam was secure; now it’s ungovernable. The educated people have all left.” uruba al-rawi, program manager, mother of two teenagers, formerly of baghdad, now living in erbil

“Saddam made life miserable for my family. Both my parents were professors and each only earned $12 a month while rent was $48 a month. So how could we live? I was in Baghdad during the ‘shock and awe’ attacks. We knew the U.S. knew what they were doing so we opened our windows and watched. They hit all their targets, bull’s eye. Now the U. S. must stay for at least ﬁve years or there’ll be civil war.” jacob kahlid, barber at the erbil international hotel

“I’m a Shiite who works with Sunnis and lives with Christians and there’s no difference—we don’t know one from another. Saddam had guns stored everywhere and those fighting now are the lowlifes; many of them are hooked on drugs and Scotch whiskey. Americans only protect the politicians and the U.S. must stay here for at least five years more.” wahid alkarada, a nongovernment agency worker campaigning to get the age limit for individuals serving in the iraqi parliament reduced from 30 to 25

“We are Iraq’s real people, not like the ones Americans see on television. We want to live in harmony and peace. The American army are oc-

“I think there are fewer than 10,000 insurgents in Iraq—probably more

cupiers and must leave as soon as possible. There may be problems in

like 7,000.” dr. sharaf aziz, baghdad anesthesiologist who helped organize the doctors exchange

the short run, but in the long run it will be okay. The Middle East has been through so many wars. All we want now is peace.” imam basheer khalil haddad at the al-hajj jalil mosque in erbil

“How, for God’s sake, do you impose democracy on a country that’s been living under dictators for 50 years? It’s impossible to just switch it on. By

“What America must do now is perform a ‘surge of humanitarianism.’ Demilitarization in the way services are delivered is urgently needed. Just today we sent relief teams into Mosul with food, water and blankets for 265

spending billions in U.S. taxpayer dollars you’ve funded 160 new political parties—and soon they’ll just disappear, enjoying life somewhere in the world, with

Christian families that have been left homeless. More of that is needed.”

American money.” mouayed al-asaad, a pharmacist, who’s lived in australia for years but returned to baghdad to help the u.s. transition

agron ferati, director of the international medical corps in iraq. with a yearly budget of $40 million and over 300 employees, Imc (and ferati) have been in iraq continuously since 2003.

In summary, almost everyone among the dozens I talked to in Iraq had a different story, a different slant. If there was a consistency, it was this: at

“My life in Iraq is getting better. If it weren’t, I would not have come to

present, Iraq is not ready for democracy. An oil ﬁeld engineer, born and

this hotel and this seminar. Iraq is our country, our only country; we can’t

raised in Baghdad and waiting with his wife and three-year-old daugh-

belong to any other country. However, our life, unlike yours, is uninterest-

ter at the airport for ﬂights taking them to a new life in Seattle, put it this

ing. We need a tough guy; we need more checkpoints.” dr. ajed al-hassani, an anesthesiologist living in najaf, a shiite city 100 miles from baghdad

way: “Right now, looking at the entire country and being very honest, we’re too uncivilized.” —J.W.

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The International Zone is a four-square-mile haven on

Attendance at the two-day Baghdad seminar was light-

ABOVE : Inside

the banks of the Tigris River surrounded by blast walls.

er than in Erbil—about 30 doctors—testament to the bu-

the International Zone, near the Al-Rasheed Hotel, were a pistol range (foreground) and a massive housing complex (note the profusion of rooftop satellite TV dishes).

This is where Saddam’s Republican Palace and most of his

reaucratic challenge Iraqi doctors face in gaining entrance

architectural monuments are located. Today, it is a dusty,

to the IZ. However, its importance was underscored by

litter-strewn enclave of diplomats and visitors. To enter the

the attendance of Iraqi Minister of Health Dr. Salih Al-

IZ, we passed through four more checkpoints, including

Hasnawi, who delivered an inspirational appeal in English

one featuring bomb-sniffing dogs and a full body pat-down

for improving Iraq’s health care capability.

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from Peruvian soldiers. Our destination was the famed

In the midst of the minister’s remarks, Baghdad suf-

14-story Al-Rasheed Hotel. This is where former CNN re-

fered one of its frequent power outages—and the room

porter Peter Arnett did his bomb-by-bomb telecast of the

went dark. Instantly, Dr. Aziz produced a flashlight and

opening salvos of the Gulf War in 1991; where Saddam in-

shined it on Al-Hasnawi, who, not missing a beat, contin-

stalled a mosaic likeness of President George H. W. Bush in

ued to implore his colleagues to strive for greater heights.

the entry hall for guests to trample upon (since removed);

When power returned, the medical presentations began

and where in October 2003 rocket fire killed one American

again. During one, Dr. Tara Rashid, who identified herself

and injured 17. In contrast to that violent past, our stay at

as “an ophthalmologist working out of eastern Baghdad’s

the Al-Rasheed could not have been nicer (well, maybe if

Al-Kindi Teaching Hospital,” asked Dr. Cromwell a technical

the majestic, marble-floored lounge actually served alco-

question about the merits of local versus general anesthetic

holic beverages).

during eye surgery. I sat next to Rashid during the presen-

DECEMBER 2008

RIGHT : Soldier from Hamilton, Ohio, at the rear of an armored personnel carrier. When asked if he was anxious to be back in Ohio, he answered, “Not really. I really like my job here.” FAR RIGHT : The only, albeit considerably defaced, remaining image of Saddam inside the International Zone.

tations and had gotten to know her a bit. She was a single

mented, “This whole place looks worse, much more con-

mom, outgoing, and had taken to calling me “Sweetie.” After

stricted, than it did four years ago. I wonder why that is?”

Cromwell answered her question, I asked her in a whisper, “How many women become eye surgeons in Iraq?”

The next morning, a Saturday, the five of us began our nearly 20 hours of flights back to the Bay Area. En

“Oh, sweetie,” she replied, “almost all eye surgeons in

route to the Baghdad airport, once again passing through

Iraq are women.” Rashid explained that tradition holds

countless security checks, Sausalito’s Rose reflected on the

that only women have the gentle and steady touch that

week we’d spent with the 100 Iraqi physicians in Erbil and

eye surgery requires. She shared that she had performed

Baghdad. “Whether they were young or older, many of

countless surgeries on war victims, but was hesitant to

the doctors’ questions were 25 years behind the times,” he

elaborate. “Wars have become part of our lives,” she said.

said, “because that’s effectively where their medical train-

“My mother is a Shiite, my father a Sunni, and it’s never

ing left off, where it was stopped.”

made a bit of difference, but now I fear for my daughter’s life; she’s only 13 years old.”

“You have to remember,” he added, “they’ve been targets—first for Saddam, then for the insurgents.” Next

By midafternoon, the seminar was ended, a late lunch

came an observation that reflected on us all: “And yet

consumed and handshakes, hugs and e-mail addresses were

they’re so far ahead of us in making the most of what

exchanged. There was considerable praise for the outstand-

they have—I can’t imagine having the perseverance to do

ing organizational job done by the International Medical

what they’re doing.”

Corps. Now it was time for a tour of the International Zone.

After a silence, Rose concluded, “If we can give even

Although the few U.S. soldiers we talked with appeared up-

one of them the chance for a better day, then our mission

beat, to many of us the compound proved less than inspir-

was accomplished.”

ing. Towering blast walls topped with concertina wire lined almost every road. Dust and trash were everywhere; nary a twig of vegetation anywhere. “Now I know why it’s no longer called the Green Zone,” remarked one doctor. As we passed the bombed-out hulk of the former Baathist Party headquarters, Dr. Cromwell, who’d been there in 2004, com-

Belvedere to Baghdad Attend a talk and photo narrative by Belvedere Mayor Thomas Cromwell and Marin Magazine executive editor Jim Wood focusing on their trip to Iraq. 7:30 p.m., December 11. Belvedere-Tiburon Library, 415.789.2665, bel-tib-lib.org

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POWDER TO THE PEOPLE Ski trips that don’t break the bank BY DAWN MARGOLIS

H E R A I N Y S E A S O N I S A R O U N D T H E C O R N E R

Which means powder in the Sierras. And although Marinites have quick access to Tahoe, this may be

the year to cop a Rocky Mountain high. The reason: Vail Resorts, which owns Beaver Creek, Breckenridge and Keystone as well as Heavenly, is offering a deal so good it’s likely to tempt many a weekend warrior into taking a ski sabbatical. The promo: purchase a season pass at Heavenly for $379 and get half-price daily lift tickets at all of the company’s Colorado properties.

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DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

“We’ve got the largest mountain, the most vertical feet, the highest summit, yet we still offer one of the least expensive season passes in Tahoe,” says Ross Pecoraro, director of communications at Heavenly. “And with this new deal, we hope many of our Bay Area pass holders will hop a plane and plan an extended stay at one of our Colorado resorts.” The promotion is hardly an indication that the ski company is hurting for money. In fact, a flagging economy has done little to deter Vail Resorts from upgrading its facilities. Nowhere is this more evident than at the company’s namesake resort. “Vail has always been on the cutting edge of ski technology,” says Kelly Ladyga, vice president of corporate communications for Vail. “But over the past few years we’ve sunk millions into making sure that the town keeps pace.” Updates include completion of RockResorts’ Arrabelle at Vail Square, at the base of the gondola. This super-swank property is the cornerstone of a brand-new European-style village, kept cozy with outdoor fire pits scattered throughout the upscale shopping arcade. The town square now features an open-air skating rink that doubles as a movie theater in the summer months. Another tony touch: every concrete walkway has been torn up and replaced with heated brick pavers. In addition to improving aesthetics, it keeps guests from slipping on undetected ice slicks. Vail Resorts’ other properties are enjoying a renaissance as well. Breckenridge, for example, added a third full-service base area called Peak 7. The new locale, which can be accessed via a stop on the resort’s gondola, boasts a 46unit luxury lodge called the Crystal Peak, a Mediterranean restaurant, a ticket office and

Meet Jim Fenton and the Marin Farmers Markets’ team at the civic center farmers markets It started 25 years ago with just one seed — an idea that is now an institution: the Marin Farmers Markets. Stop by this week and see how we’ve grown. You’ll find the freshest, sustainable and organic produce, as well as local seafood, grass-fed meats, eggs, and dairy. Enjoy a leisurely brunch. Listen to live music. And get to know your neighbors and Marin Farmers Markets’ staff, like market manager Jim Fenton, who’s been instrumental in helping the markets flourish for over a decade. Want to learn more about the new Eat Local 101 booth or Marin Agricultural Institute’s vision for a permanent home for the farmers market? From “Where’s the bok choy?” to “Where’s the bathroom?” — just ask Jim.

rental shop. Meanwhile, over at Beaver Creek, the company cut the ribbon on a state-of-the-art children’s ski and snowboard school. The 4,000-squarefoot center has discreet observation windows so parents can keep tabs without interfering with kids’ learning; what’s more, the adjacent beginners’ slope has been structurally engineered to

Marin Civic Center (Sun & Thurs, 8-1, ALL YEAR) Novato (Tues, 4-8, May-SEptember) Fairfax (Wed, 4-8, May-September)

Newark (Sun, 9-1, ALL YEAR) OAKLAND — Grand Lake (Sat, 9-2, ALL YEAR) Hayward (Sat, 9-1, All Year)

encourage proper form. Ah, if only they could do the same for those double black diamonds.

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

1 - 8 0 0 - 8 9 7 - FA R M

M A R I N FA R M E R S M A R K E T S . O R G

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DECEMBER 2008

W E’L L A LWAY S HAVE TA H OE IF A TRIP TO OTHER HIGH elevations

Squaw Valley (photo at right): To help

isn’t in the cards, here’s a roundup of what’s

retain its world-class status, Squaw will be

new and improved in our own backyard. For

among the ﬁrst to debut a new “smart” tick-

great lodging deals go to page 108.

eting system. When guests pass through

Sugar Bowl: It’s the closest major ski resort

an electronic gate, the scanner will detect

for the Bay Area. And if that’s not enough of a

their ticket, even when it’s buried under lay-

draw, perhaps the unveiling of nine new ski in/

ers of Gore-Tex. Other big changes: the

ski out condos at the Jerome Creek Lodge will

mid-mountain restaurant has been gutted,

do the trick. Meanwhile, thrill seekers will ﬁnd

remodeled (with a nod toward sustainabil-

new boxes, hits and jumps at the resort’s exten-

ity) and renamed the Arc, featuring a fresh

sive terrain park. Approximate daily lift ticket:

healthy menu. Approximate daily lift ticket:

$66 to $72. sugarbowl.com

$79. squaw.com

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MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

Northstar-at-Tahoe: This family-friendly resort poured $15 million into on-mountain improvements. Trees were thinned to improve glade skiing; a high-speed quad lift was installed in the place of an outdated two-seater; and best of all, 414 skiable acres were added, bringing the terrain total to 2,904. Approximate daily lift ticket: $75. Center. The program, which runs in partner-

Kirkwood: The resort that positions itself

Alpine Meadows: The last Tahoe resort

ship with the brand leader in snowboard

as the Tahoe mountain with the highest aver-

to welcome snowboarders to the mountain

technology, introduces newcomers to the

age snow accumulations will add three new

has come a long way in terms of shredder

sport on beginner-specific equipment and

lifts: two providing quick access to terrain

hospitality. These days not only are board-

incorporates teaching methods proven to

formerly only available to folks willing to hike

ers welcome along with skiiers, but this sea-

speed up the learning curve. Approximate

for it, plus a new beginner lift. Approximate

son Alpine opened a Burton Learn-to-Ride

daily lift ticket: $65. skialpine.com

daily lift ticket: $75. kirkwood.com

northstarattahoe.com

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

B O O KS

Season’s readings Gift lit for everyone on your list BY SAMANTHA SCHOECH T H E R E WAS A N E- M A I L G O I N G A R O U N D N OT LO N G AG O about the perfect technology. The device was portable and lightweight, never needed batteries and would last forever without being charged. Best of all, it engaged intellect, emotions and creativity in a way almost nothing else did, offering each user a slightly different experience depending on how it was used. This ideal medium, the message went on to disclose, is none other than the book. Well, we agree, and for those reasons and more we also think it makes the perfect gift. Here are some of our picks for the holiday season. Happy giving.

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

FOR THE FICTION FAN A Mercy BY TONI MORRISON ($24, Knopf)

The new novel by Nobel Prize winner Toni Morrison is being called a prelude of sorts to her masterpiece Beloved. Set at the close of the 17th century, when the slave trade was still in its infancy, A Mercy follows the life of a young slave from Maryland who has been traded as payment of debt to a northern farmer. Like Beloved, the novel explores racism, abandonment, mother-daughter relationships and the nature of enduring love. Publisher’s Weekly writes, “Morrison’s unflinching narrative is all the more powerful for its relative brevity; it takes hold of the reader and doesn’t let go until the wrenching final-page crescendo.”

Fava Bean Bruschetta MarketBar, San Francisco This tapas-style appetizer is a simple and delicious start to a spring meal. MarketBar uses Marin Star Route Farm’s young, tender fava beans. Because of the simplicity of this dish, use a good-quality sea salt and extra-virgin olive oil.

1 pound fava beans, shelled 1 clove garlic, minced 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed

FOR THE CHEF Alinea

lemon juice

Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil over

2 tablespoons 1⁄ 2 teaspoon sea salt, plus more

for sprinkling 1⁄4 teaspoon freshly ground

Fava beans, also called broad beans, have been cultivated in Southwest Asia and the

Put the beans in a food processor. Add the garlic, lemon

beans are eaten fresh when picked early in

Mediterranean for thousands of years. The

juice, and thyme and pulse for several seconds until the

the season, or as a dried bean when allowed

beans are coarsely chopped. With the machine running,

to mature on the vine. To cook fresh favas,

add the 1⁄4 cup olive oil until well combined. Stir in the

shell the beans from the spongy pods. Bring

1⁄ 2 teaspoon salt and the pepper. Set aside.

a large pot of salted water to a boil and

pepper 1 sweet or sourdough baguette

blanch the favas for 3 minutes. Drain the

Preheat an oven to 350°F. Cut the baguette into 1⁄4 -inch

beans and refresh with cold water. Peel the

diagonal slices. Using a pastry brush, coat both sides of

beans by pinching the dark green ridge on

the bread slices with the 2 tablespoons olive oil. Place the

the round side of the bean and pulling open

bread in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast in

the skin. Slip out the bright green bean and

the oven for 10 to 15 minutes, until light golden brown.

discard the skin. One pound of fava bean

Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Using

pods will yield 1 cup of shelled beans.

a butter knife, spread 1 teaspoon fava bean puree on each toast. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt and serve at

BY GRANT ACHATZ ($50, Ten Speed)

1 Peeling Fava Beans 3

high heat. Blanch the fava beans for 5 minutes, then drain and plunge into an ice-water bath. Once the beans are cool, peel them by pinching off the skin.

1⁄ 2 tablespoon minced fresh thyme 1⁄4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus

room temperature.

Makes 30 to 35 bruschetta

It’s a cookbook, yes. But the gorgeous new book from James Beard award–winning chef Grant beauty and the appreciation of food as it is a

Organic Marin

guide for preparing one of Alinea’s spectacular

recipes from land to table

Achatz of Chicago’s Alinea is as much about

menus. It includes stunning photography (every single finished dish is featured in the book)

Written and photographed by Tim Porter and Farina Wong Kingsley, and

and thoughtful, engaging essays by Achatz and

produced by Marin Magazine, this seasonal cookbook celebrates the organic

other food literati such as Jeffrey Steingarten.

farmers and ranchers of Marin County, and the local restaurants who have

Ambitious home cooks are definitely encouraged

provided over 40 delicious recipes that use these organic ingredients.

to try the recipes (there is even a companion

The book can be purchased for $29.99 at local bookstores or by going to

website for exchange of ideas and support from

marinmagazine.com/organicmarin

fellow cooks), but like design books and fashion magazines, this is more about aspiration and inspiration than mixing bowls and teaspoons.

“Organic Marin gives you a taste of what has become one of America’s most vibrant local food scenes; indeed, this beautiful book is the next best thing to eating there.” —Michael Pollan, author of Omnivore’s Dilemma and In Defense of Food

FOR THE GAMER Rogue Leaders: The Story of LucasArts BY ROB SMITH ($60, Chronicle Books)

George Lucas was at the forefront of the fledgling video game industry 25 years ago when he started LucasArts as a way of integrating various entertainment media. Rogue Leaders

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

chronicles LucasArts’ journey to becoming one of the most prestigious designers in the industry, with dozens of never-before-published interviews. But the really cool feature: 300 pieces of concept art, character sketches, and storyboards that illustrate how some of the most-loved games have come to life.

FOR THE SCIEN CE BUFF The Superorganism: The Beauty, Elegance, and Strangeness of Insect Societies BY BERT HÖLLDOBLER AND E.O. WILSON

($55, W. W. Norton) Bees have a lot to tell us. So do ants. This book, which promises to be a biggie in scientific importance, illuminates the many captivating ele-

gift certiﬁcates • relaxing massage luxurious facials • therapeutic body treatments skin, bath & body care products

ments of superorganisms—tightly knit colonies of individuals formed by altruistic cooperation, complex communication and division of labor (think beehives and termite nests). With more than 200 photographs and illustrations,

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Superorganisms is a fascinating look into a word

2 6 TA M A L PA I S D R I V E , C O R T E M A D E R A , C A 9 4 9 2 5

hitherto glimpsed only by a few scientists.

marin dental wellness

Dentistry With a holistic approach.

Create

a healthy mouth with the body in mind.

FOR THE ARMCHAIR SOCIAL SCIENTIST The Outliers: The Story of Success BY MALCOLM GLADWELL

($28, Little, Brown & Co.) The New Yorker writer and best-selling author does for success in The Outliers what he did for trends and cultural phenomena in The Tipping Point. Here Gladwell studies successful people—software billionaires, famous athletes and others—arguing that we pay too much attention to what they are like and not enough attention to the homes, backgrounds, cultures, families and generations they come from.

Mercury-free restorations Biocompatible materials testing Oral Systemic Balance treatment Natural approach to gum health Ozone therapy Treatments for TMJ, Snoring, Sleep Apnea Accepting new patients

FOR THE ART-SEEKER X-Ray: See Through the World Around You BY NICK VEASEY ($40, Studio)

There is something subversive about photogra-

Brian J Smith, DDS

(415) 924-6551

33 Montecito Drive, Corte Madera, CA 94925

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

pher Nick Veasey’s X-ray images. They are often beautiful and always fascinating to look at, but they also turn our current obsession with security on its head by using sophisticated X-ray

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

technology to show the inner beauty of objects rather than their hidden dangers. Working from a lead-lined room (he also claims to wear lead underwear), he creates inside-out images of everyday objects, plants and animals—from a Boeing 777 to a daffodil.

FOR THE FACT FINDER The Encyclopedia of Earth: A Complete Visual Guide BY MICHAEL ALLABY, ROBERT COENRAADS, STEPHEN HUTCHINSON, KAREN MCGHEE, JOHN O’BYRNE AND KEN RUBIN ($40, UC Press)

It starts with the beginning of the universe and ends with today’s conservation issues. In between are 600 beautiful, colorful pages on everything from the geology of Central Australia to the organization of rural communities across the globe. It’s one of those books you can open to any page and find some completely compelling fact, photo, explanation or story. Authored by a group of true experts (they’re are all highly regarded scientists) who can write beauti-

55 Throckmorton Ave., Mill Valley 415-380-0880 www.alixandcompany.com

fully for the lay audience, The Encyclopedia of Earth is like flipping through National Geographic, Life and Nature all at once.

FOR THE REALLY BIG BOOK LOVER The Hour I First Believed BY WALLY LAMB ($30, Harper)

The New York Times once called Wally Lamb, author of best sellers She’s Come Undone and I Know This Much Is True, “a modern-day Dostoevsky” for his ability to weave long, engaging stories of people struggling with a “mocking, sadistic God.” His new novel takes as its starting point the Columbine High School killings in Littleton, Colorado, where Lamb’s character Maureen Quirk is the school nurse and a witness to the terrible violence. Unable to recover from the trauma, she moves with her husband to his family’s ancestral home in Connecticut, where he discovers a cache of old papers, diaries and

Sunday, December 7, 2008 Alumni Christmas Mass 2:30 p.m. | Pennafort Chapel, Dominican campus Holiday Reception 3:30-5:30 p.m. | Guzman Lecture Hall, Dominican campus $30 per person | $20 children 6-18 | Free for children 5 and under To RSVP, contact the Ofﬁce of Alumni Relations by December 1 at 415-485-3242, alumni@dominican.edu, or RSVP online at http://alumni.dominican.edu

photos chronicling his family from the Civil War through his own childhood. From these bits and various voices Lamb tells an intricate American story that is both timeless and contemporary.

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50 Acacia Avenue, San Rafael, California 94901 www.dominican.edu

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

GA L L E RIES

Feasts for the Senses Galleries serve up an array of holiday cheer BY ANNE CRUMP RAY

AST JANUARY, FORMER TIBURON FINE ART proprietor Deborah Molinar added a new space to her evolving lineup of Marin arts venues. The Art Bar at

46 Main Street sits just doors down from its sister space at 34 Main (long the studiogallery of painter James Liu), providing her with a showcase for a signature collection of paintings by Kathleen Dunne as well as works by other established visual artists. While the exhibitions presented at the Art Bar recall those Molinar mounted at Tiburon Fine Art, the approach is somewhat different. The stated mission of the Art Bar is to pair art with a complementary selection of wine—a fitting marriage in the culturally (and vinoculturally) rich Bay Area. “The intention of the Art Bar is to provide a comfortable environment for people to explore the arts, enjoy a glass of wine and have a unique experience in Tiburon,” says Molinar. Her inspiration is 19th-century Paris salons, “where fine art was viewed and enjoyed while sipping drinks and exchanging cultural ideas and philosophies.” On December 4 the Art Bar presents a reception to highlight an exhibition of paintings by Dunne and Tiburon-based Adam Miller. The artists’ styles diverge, but they share an affinity for European traditions: Dunne uses a wet-on-wet technique that recalls the process for making frescoes, and her subject matter is frequently Greek and Italian landscapes; Miller draws on the classical painting of Renaissance and Baroque masters, even when his compositions are decidedly contemporary. The reception takes place at the gallery from 6 to 9 p.m. and is open to the public. The Art Bar, 46 Main St, Tiburon, 415.435.5999, artbar.us; 11–5 Wed–Sun, or by appointment THE HOLIDAYS BRING A FLURRY OF TREASURES great and small to Donna Seager Gallery in San Rafael. From December 2 through January 15 the gallery showcases a selection of paintings by Michael Cutlip and sculptural works by husband-and-wife team Marie and Carl Dern. Bay Area native Cutlip creates dreamy, layered confections imbued with nostalgia and whimsy. While his works generally have a sizeable footprint, they are not imposing; many of the pieces comprise an assortment of small paintings on panels—5- to 8-inch squares—arranged in a grid. Marked by pastel colors, soft lines and 96

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DECEMBER 2008

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OPPOSITE TOP: Alexandra, by Adam Miller at The Art Bar. OPPOSITE BOTTOM: Stay with Me, by Michael Cutlip at Donna Seager

Gallery. ABOVE LEFT: Leaving, by Mari Cardenas at San Francisco City Hall. ABOVE RIGHT: Bowl I, by Gail Chadell Nanao at Smith Andersen North

alluring imagery, the pieces conjure notions

ed her repertoire to include ceramics sev-

AN EXHIBITION CURRENTLY on view

of a baker’s display case, brimming with

eral years ago. Despite the variance in me-

in San Francisco’s City Hall may give visi-

cupcakes and old-fashioned delights.

dia, however, her subject matter remains

tors a new perspective on seeing. Insights

consistent—notably, nudes.

2008, installed on the building’s lower

The Derns, who live in Fairfax, are both accomplished artists, favoring different me-

“The lines and contours of the clay have

level as part of an ongoing San Francisco

dia—Marie, book art, and Carl, sculpture.

presented me with new and exciting spaces

Arts Commission program, is the 19th an-

Their collaborations provide opportunities

and colors,” says the artist, who frequently

nual juried exhibition of works by visually

to unite their affinities, resulting in hand-

depicts her subjects in suggestive poses.

impaired artists.

made, sculptural books that expand upon

“My choice of sometimes erotic imagery

The presentation includes more than

the concept of artist’s books and serve as

stems from the fact that such figures are

100 pieces by nearly 50 artists from

enchanting objects. This exhibition in the

somewhat unexpected on ceramics, pro-

around the world and encompasses pho-

artist’s book gallery presents an assort-

viding an interesting juxtaposition. Melding

tographs, sculptures, paintings and mixed

ment of the Derns’ solo and joint creations.

and blending the curves of the human ﬁg-

media. The common denominator is that

The public is invited to attend an open-

ure with the curves of the ceramics adds,

all the artists are either blind or visually im-

ing reception for the exhibitions from 6 to

for me, an aspect of the unanticipated and

paired—a fact that challenges traditional

8 p.m. on December 12. The gallery also

playful to these new pieces.”

assumptions about who can create visual

plans an artist talk featuring the Derns on

A former student of Nathan Oliveira,

art. In the words of Pete Eckert, a blind

December 5; call for details.

Nanao evidences the influence of the Bay

photographer from Sacramento, “I’m a very

Donna Seager Gallery, 851 Fourth St, San

Area Figurative Movement. Her abstracted

visual person, I just can’t see.”

Rafael, 415.454.4229, donnaseagergallery.

nudes suggest a ﬂuidity and elegance, even

The exhibition, organized in collabo-

com; 11–6 Tue–Sat, 1–5 Sun, closed Mon

when their activities stray into the immodest.

ration with the LightHouse for the Blind

The gallery hosts an opening reception

and Visually Impaired, continues through

FROM DECEMBER 6 through January

for the exhibition and gløgg (a Scandinavian

December 12. LightHouse has provided

17, Smith Andersen North presents Dirty

punch) holiday fete on December 6 from 6

advocacy, information and service for the

Dishes, an exhibition of provocative paint-

to 9 p.m.

blind and visually impaired since 1902.

ed ceramics by Berkeley-based artist Gail

Smith Andersen North, 2240A

San Francisco City Hall, Lower Level, 1 Dr.

Chadell Nanao.

Fourth St, San Rafael, 415.455.9733,

Carlton B. Goodlett Place, San Francisco,

Perhaps best known for her large can-

smithandersennorth.com; 10–6 Tue–Fri, 12–5

415.554.6080, sfacgallery.org; 8–8 Mon–

vases and works on paper, Nanao expand-

Sat and by appointment, closed Sun–Mon

Fri, closed Sat–Sun

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DECEMBER 2008

A little painting every day • susanlandorkeegin.blogspot.com susanlandorkeegin.com • 332-3093 susan@susanlandorkeegin.com

MARIN DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

MARIN DECEMBER 2008

Greg Ragland Two Ruby Throat in Red 24 x 24 inches Acrylic on Panel

CAL E N DA R

DECEMBER ARTS & EVENTS GUIDE Nutcracker runs in San Francisco December 11–28 and in Marin December 13–14.

DANCE

Thru 7 Marin Theatre Company The stakes of a card game are raised with the arrival of a stranger in Conor McPherson’s The Seafarer. Marin Theatre Company (Mill Valley). 415.388.5208, marintheatre.org Thru 14 42nd Street Moon Founding father Benjamin Franklin tries to get King Louis XVI to recognize America as a sovereign nation in Ben Franklin in Paris. Eureka Theatre (SF). 415.255.8207, 42ndstmoon.org Thru January 4 The Phantom of the Opera Gaston Leroux’s classic novel comes to life in this Andrew Lloyd Webber classic. Orpheum Theatre (SF). 415.512.7770, shnsf.com

Thru January 11 Disco Diva Thelma Houston The Grammy Award winner is back at Teatro ZinZanni. Experience Houston’s passionate vocal delivery along with special guests. Pier 29 (SF). 415.438.2668, zinzanni.org 100

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DECEMBER 2008

11–24 Ross Valley Players See Ron Severdia portray more than 40 characters in the Charles Dickens classic A Christmas Carol. This show won a 2006 Theatre Critics’ Circle Award for best solo performance. Barn Theatre (Ross). 415.456.9555, rossvalleyplayers.com 20–21 Live at the Met The Lark Theater hosts the entire Metropolitan Opera season live in high deﬁnition. This month see Jules Massenet’s sensual opera Thaïs. Lark Theater (Larkspur). 415.924.5111, larktheater.net

COMEDY Tuesdays Mark Pitta and Friends The comic hosts an evening for up-and-comers and established headliners to work on new material. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.9600, 142throckmortontheatre.com

13–14 Marin Ballet’s Nutcracker The classic is back with new sets, costumes and choreography; even Act One is all new. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marinballet.org

11–28 S.F. Ballet’s Nutcracker See the holiday show the New York Times called “striking, elegant and beautiful.” War Memorial Opera House (SF). 415.865.2000, sfballet.org

MUSIC Thru 7 San Francisco Opera Giacomo Puccini’s favorite, La Bohème, tells the tale of starving artists falling in and out of love in 19th-century Paris. War Memorial Opera House (SF). 415.565.3204, sfopera.com 6 Frank Caliendo The comedian and impersonator takes the stage. The Warﬁeld (SF). 415.421.8497, goldenvoice.com MARINMAGAZINE.COM

P H OTO: S. F. N UTCR ACKE R BY ERIK TOM A S S ON

THEATER

7 Kitka Concert It’s a holiday tradition. Hear the Kitka vocalists perform songs from a wide range of spiritual traditions. Osher Marin JCC (San Rafael). 415.444.8000, marinjcc.org

the Garden Rings 11–12 San Francisco Symphony The San in 18k Gray

Francisco Symphony Chorus and director Ragnar Bohlin present holiday choral favorites. Davies Symphony Hall (SF). 415.864.6000, sfsymphony.org

a n d Ye l l o w G o l d

19 Musae The San Francisco women’s vocal ensemble performs Waitin’ for the Light to Shine with the Menlo Brass Quintet. Old St. Hilary’s (Tiburon). 415.435.1853, musae.org

21 SingersMarin Join the SingersMarin for a holiday choral classic, ’Tis the Season … Sounds of Peace and Joy. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, singersmarin.org

31 George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic It’s time to get funky this New Year’s Eve as George Clinton brings his one-of-a-kind show to the Bay Area. The Warﬁeld (SF). 415.421.8497, goldenvoice.com

OLD GOLD www.oldgoldjewelry.com

mendocino ] 707 937-5005

tiburon [ 415 789-9583

800 992-5335

31 Les Claypool with Zappa Plays Zappa Send 2008 off in style with this wacky double header. War Memorial Opera House (SF). 415.421.8497, goldenvoice.com

31 Yoshi’s San Francisco Celebrate with Eddie Palmieri and La Perfecta II and their blend of jazz and Latin music. Yoshi’s (SF). 415.655.5600, yoshis.com

GALLERIES

CHAMPAGNE MPAGNE

&CHOCOLATES WEEKEND WEEK

MARIN Aperture F/64 New photography. 635 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo. 415.482.0480 Artisans Art Gallery Salon Open juried exhibit. 853 Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.460.5208, artisansartgallery.com

20% OFF

ALL PURCHASES

Art Works Downtown Small Works, thru December 31. 1337 Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.451.8119, artworksdowntown.org MARINMAGAZINE.COM

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

101

MUSIC NOTES

Claudia Chapline Gallery Color 4 Abstract works on paper by Claudia Chapline, Etta Deikman, Paul Redaelli and Harold Schwarm, thru February. 3445 Shoreline Hwy, Stinson Beach. 415.868.2308, cchapline.com

PH OTO : B A R B A RA K E L L E R

College of Marin Art Gallery Art from faculty members. 835 College Ave, Kentﬁeld. 415.485.9494, marin.cc.ca.us

Christmas Jug Band Local group keeps the holidays swinging BY JONATHAN KORTY

FOR THE LAST 30 YEARS THE “KINGS OF TONGUE-IN-CHEEK, acoustic-skiffle-swing holiday hijinks” have brought mirth and merriment to the holidays as the

Gallery Bergelli Paintings by Greg Ragland and James Leonard, thru December. 483 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur. 415.945.9454, gallerybergelli.com Gallery Route One La Vida, Latino Photography Project, December 12–January 11. 11101 Hwy One, Point Reyes Station. 415.663.1347, galleryrouteone.org Marin MOCA Conversations, A Group Show The show focuses on metal, plaster, clay, watercolor, oil, acrylic, ink and encaustic, December 6–28. 500 Palm Dr, Novato. 415.506.0137, marinmoca.com Marin Society of Artists Small World, thru December 14. 30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Ross. 415.454.9561, marinsocietyofartists.org

Christmas Jug Band. Their legendary performances at the Sweetwater and other local venues, usually ending with dueling accordion battles atop the bar, have earned the respect of die-hard fans eager for a break from the usual holiday grind.

Milk and Honey Art Gallery Underground comic book artists group show. 384 Miller Ave, Mill Valley. 415.383.7580

Formed in 1977 inside Mill Valley’s now defunct Old Mill Tavern, the band originally consisted of four local musicians: Tim Eschlimann (Etta James, Commander Cody), Nick and Duke Dewey (Country Joe & the Fish) and Paul Wenninger (road manager for Dan Hicks), who started the band on a lark. It wasn’t long before Hicks came aboard, as did Austin de Lone (Nick Lowe, Elvis Costello) and L. D. Armstrong (Rowdy and the Rivets). This incarnation of the band, which released the album Mistletoe Jam on Relix Records in 1987, kept the music interesting by forgoing cover songs and insisting its members play instruments they don’t specialize in. Over the years, talented local musicians such as Lance Dickerson (Commander Cody), Paul Rogers (Those Darn Accordions) and Jim Rothermel (Van Morrison) have joined in the fun. The band’s current lineup includes Mike Duke, Maria Muldaur, Angela Streghli, Norton Buffalo and Dan Hicks, all of whom play on the band’s latest release, Uncorked. The Christmas Jug Band performs at Mill Valley’s 142 Throckmorton Theater

Northbay ArtWorks Members’ ongoing work. 7049 Redwood Blvd, Ste 208, Novato. 415.892.8188, northbayartworks.com O’Hanlon Center for the Arts Invoking Spirit A group show juried by Jean McMann and Elaine James, thru December 30. 616 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.388.4331, ohanloncenter.org Robert Allen Fine Art Gallery Artists group show. Work from more than 40 artists, thru January 23. 301 Caledonia St, Sausalito. 415.331.2800, robertallenﬁneart.com

(December 5), at Larkspur’s Sweetwater Station for an all-ages show (December 7), at Berkeley’s Freight and Salvage (December 16), at Petaluma’s Mystic Theater (December 19) and at Mill Valley’s Masonic Hall (December 20 and 21). christmasjugband.com

102

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Robert Beck Gallery Early California and contemporary plein air paintings on display. 222 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo. 415.456.7898, beckgallery.org MARINMAGAZINE.COM

C A L L for E N T R I E S

Get Covered! ATTENTION ARTISTS: Enter the Third Annual MARIN MAGAZINE Cover Art Contest. WINNERS: A winner for each of the following categories: painting, photography and illustration, will be featured in the May 2009 MARIN MAGAZINE. EXPOSURE: Each winner will be featured on the May 2009 impact cover unit and will display their work to the public at the opening of the MARIN ART SALON May 7, 2009. ENTER NOW AT: MARINMAGAZINE.COM/GETCOVERED

T PHO

OGR

APHY

PA I N T I N G

I L LU ST

Entry rules and regulations can be found at marinmagazine.com/getcovered. Deadline for entry is March 2, 2009.

R AT

Robert Green Fine Arts Contemporary paintings and other nonobjectionable work. 154 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.381.8776, rgﬁnearts.com Sam the Butcher Photography by Mick Laska, thru January. 19 Ross Common, Ross. 415.902.1019, samthebutcherart.org Smith Andersen North Painted ceramics from Gail Chadell Nanao, December 6–January 17. 2240 A Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.455.9733, smithandersennorth.com. Studio 4 Art Work by local artists at this brand-new gallery and workshop offering materials and classes. 1133 Grant Ave, Novato. 415.596.5546, studio4art.net The Painters Place Shop pieces and landscape art at this gallery and picture frame house in operation since 1966. 1139 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur. 415.461.0351, thepaintersplace.com

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SAN FRANCISCO ArtHaus Paintings by Bay Area artist Maxine Solomon, thru December 23. 411 Brannan St, 415.977.0223, arthaus-sf.com Berggruen Gallery Art Basel Miami Beach, December 3–7. 228 Grant Ave, 415.781.4629, berggruen.com Cain Schulte Gallery Molecular Vision Work by Klari Reis, thru December 23. 101 Townsend St, 415.543.1550, cainschulte.com Caldwell Snyder Gallery Recent ﬁgurative paintings by Spanish artist Regina Saura. 341 Sutter St, 415.296.7896, caldwellsnyder.com Elins Eagles-Smith Gallery Group show, thru December. 49 Geary St, 415.981.1080, eesgallery.com George Krevsky Gallery 16th-anniversary holiday exhibition. 77 Geary St, 415.397.9748, georgekrevskygallery.com

Gregory Lind Gallery New work by Jake Longstreth, December 12–January 31. 49 Geary St, 415.296.9661, gregorylindgallery.com Hackett-Freedman Gallery Work by Roland Petersen, thru December 24. 250 Sutter St, 415.362.7152, hackettfreedman.com Rena Bransten Gallery Mixed media from Don Ed Hardy, December 4–January 10. 77 Geary St, 415.982.3292, renabranstengallery.com

MUSEUMS MARIN Bay Area Discovery Museum Jazz ﬂugelhornist and composer Dmitri Matheny tells a magical tale about a little girl and the search for a missing cat. Ticket price includes a free copy of The SnowCat coloring book. December 13, 20 and 27 (Sausalito). 415.339.3958, baykidsmuseum.org

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Bolinas Museum Stop by the Bolinas Museum this month for a mini-show featuring works by Bay Area artists to beneﬁt the museum. (Bolinas). 415.868.0330, bolinasmuseum.org Falkirk Cultural Center Enjoy family teatime at this special teddy bear tea event. Children are encouraged to bring their favorite teddy bear, December 13 and 14 (San Rafael). 415.485.3438, falkirkculturalcenter.org

BAY AREA Asian Art Museum Afghanistan: Hidden Treasures from the National Museum, Kabul In 2003, artifacts long thought stolen or destroyed were uncovered in Afghanistan. See these treasures as they make their only West Coast appearance, thru January 25 (SF). 415.581.3500, asianart.org Contemporary Jewish Museum Warhol’s Jews: Ten Portraits Reconsidered This exhibition is the ﬁrst West Coast showing of the complete set of paintings Andy Warhol

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made in this series, thru January 25 (SF). 415.655.7800, thecjm.org de Young Maya Lin: Systematic Landscapes New drawings, sculpture and installations from Maya Lin, the artist behind the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, thru January 18 (SF). 415.863.3330, thinker.org di Rosa Preserve After the Age of Reason New drawings and sculpture by Maria Porges, thru January 3. 5200 Carneros Hwy, Napa. 707.226.5991, ext. 34, dirosapreserve.org Exploratorium The Exploratorium invites you to experience the voice of Dylan Thomas as he narrates the 1963 ﬁlm A Child’s Christmas in Wales, December 20. The fun continues with the Holiday Animation Film Festival, December 26–28 (SF). 415.561.0377, exploratorium.edu Legion of Honor The State Museums of Berlin and the Legacy of James Simon See more than 100 works from the

State Museums of Berlin, all from patron James Simon, whose cultural legacy will also be examined, thru January 18 (SF). 415.863.3330, legionofhonor.org SFMOMA 246 and Counting: Recent Architecture + Design Acquisitions See more than 246 objects acquired by SFMOMA’s Architecture and Design Department, thru January 4 (SF). 415.357.4000, sfmoma.org

EVENTS Thru 14 Sonoma Valley Museum of Art The SVMA features the work of Ray Jacobsen along with 28 other Sonoma artists. SVMA (Sonoma). 707.939.7862, svma.org Thru 23 Gingerbread Architecture Extravaganza Let your kids’ imaginations run wild as they create their own tasty gingerbread houses with candy canes, gumdrops and frosting. Bay Area Discovery Museum (Sausalito). 415.339.3958, baykidsmuseum.org

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Thru 31 Jewish Magic: Folklore and Fantasy See more than 50 old and new exhibit items from all over the world at this Jewish Community Center of San Francisco event. JCCSF (SF). 415.292.1200, jccsf.org

5 Angel Lights Beneﬁt Join in the effort to protect Angel Island State Park and bring back the Christmas lights at this third annual event. Corinthian Yacht Club (Tiburon). 415.435.3972, angelisland.org 6 Holiday Arts and Crafts Sale The Belvedere-Tiburon Landmarks Society is hosting a crafts sale perfect for the holidays. Art & Garden Center (Tiburon). 415.435.1853, landmarks-society.org 6 Celebration of Lights Join Hospice by the Bay for a special candle-lighting ceremony to honor the memory of a loved one. Larkspur Landing Shopping Center (Larkspur). 415.927.2273, hospicebythebay.org

Something Different Mon. - Sat. 10:30 am - 6:00 pm www.fancythatgiftshop.com

Art, Gifts & Accessories 47 C Tamal Vista Blvd., Corte Madera (415) 945-8863 • Next to DMV

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6 Green Gifting Go green this year and give gifts made from recycled materials at this unique gift-making event. Richardson Bay Audubon Center and Sanctuary (Tiburon). 415.388.2524, ext. 112, tiburonaudubon.org 6–7 Art Deco and Modernism Sale Deco the halls with selections from more than 200 dealers with one-of-kind deco and modernism designs from 1900 to 1980. Concourse Exhibition Sale (SF). 650.599.3326, artdecosale.com

10 Puttin’ on the Dog The 32nd annual fundraiser for the San Rafael–based Guide Dogs for the Blind will help the organization train puppies to become guide dogs. Westin St. Francis Hotel (SF). 415.492.5544, guidedogs.com JXekX IfjX IfjX

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12–13 Marin Oratorio Hear the sound of 100 voices singing Beethoven. College of Marin Fine Arts Theater (Kentﬁeld). 415.485.9385 13 Nutcracker Family Luncheon Enjoy children’s activities and lunch in an enchanted forest followed by a matinee performance of the Nutcracker. War Memorial Opera House (SF). 415.865.6766, sfballet.org MARINMAGAZINE.COM

13 Tour de Noel Tour four local homes decorated for the holidays and enjoy lunch at St. John’s Episcopal Church at this 22nd annual event. St. John’s Episcopal Church (Ross). 415.456.1102, tourdenoel.org

13–14 Marin County Antique Show Your one-stop shop for rare treasures includes decorative and ﬁne art, crystal, glassware, pottery, silver and more. Marin County Civic Center (San Rafael). 415.383.2252, goldengateshows.com

13–14 KPFA Crafts & Music Fair The largest weekend holiday crafts fair in Northern California beneﬁts KPFA, 94.1 FM. Concourse Exhibition Center (SF). 510.848.6767, ext. 646, kpfa.org 30 Tam Valley Arts Connection Join storyteller Anita Jones in an afternoon of stories and songs for children. Tamalpais Valley Community Center (Mill Valley). 415.388.6393 NATURE WALKS/TALKS Ongoing Sonoma History Local actor George Webber morphs into Mark Twain, as he retells the history of Sonoma (Sonoma). 707.694.5097, georgewebber.com

6 Master Gardener Class The BelvedereTiburon Landmarks Society is hosting a special class about using bulbs throughout the year. Art & Garden Center (Tiburon). 415.435.1853, landmarks-society.org

7 Sunset Hike and Dine Meet up with a local club for a monthly two-hour hike on moderate to steep trails on Mount Tamalpais with a mid-hike wine and cheese break. Reservations required. Mountain Home Inn (Mill Valley). 415.331.0100

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13 Moonlight Hike Join the Marin Moonshiners for a monthly three-mile hike to experience the sunset, moonrise and a picnic. Reservations required. Pelican Inn Pub (Muir Beach). 415.331.0100

2008

18 Shorebirds Gina Barton will discuss shorebirds at this Nature of the Bay lecture series event. Richardson Bay Audubon Center and Sanctuary (Tiburon). 415.388.2524, tiburonaudubon.org MARINMAGAZINE.COM

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December 31. Also, most Kimpton hotels are offering holiday packages, call your favorite to ﬁnd out more. 800.546.7866, kimptonhotels.com

Tahoe Deals Cedar House Sport Hotel Stay at Cedar House and take advantage of winter adventure packages that include ski clinics, snowcat skiing and snowboarding, dogsled tours, snowmobiling and snowshoeing. 866.582.5655, cedarhousesporthotel.com

Hotel Vertigo In celebration of the 50th anniversary of Alfred Hitchcock’s masterpiece Vertigo, Hotel Vertigo debuts in San Francisco’s Union Square this December. Watch out for the mysterious room number 13 full of memorabilia. 800.553.1900, personalityhotels.com

Embassy Suites Lake Tahoe Located just steps from the Heavenly gondola. The sevennight ski and snowboard snowfest package includes seven nights’ accommodation in a two-room suite and five days of lift tickets to four area resorts. Package starts at $1,999 for two people. 800.964.6703, embassytahoe.com Harrah’s and Harveys Lake Tahoe Enjoy great shows, food and casino action at night and great skiing during the day with this winter package including room and lift ticket. Package starts at $120 per night. 800.427.7247, totalrewardstahoe.com Inn at Truckee Get in shape for the slopes with the Stair Climber Special, featuring rooms on the third floor of the inn. Package includes discounts at local resorts. $59. 888.773.6888, innattruckee.com MontBleu Resort Casino & Spa This winter ski package includes accommodations and two lift tickets to your choice of local resorts. Packages start at $199 per night. 800.648.3353, montbleuresort.com Northstar Stay in a studio condo and Ski Free (two free lift tickets). Lift tickets are exchangeable for a cross-country trail pass or $25 resort gift card per ticket valid throughout the resort (some restrictions apply). From $108 per person, per night. 800.466.6784 northstarattahoe.com Resort at Squaw Creek Make some magical memories at Resort at Squaw Creek’s annual holiday “Magical Bed and Breakfast” package. Package includes a deluxe room for two adults and two children and lots of holiday activities. $199. 800.401.9501, visitsquawcreek.com

TRAVEL BUZZ COPIA Executive chef Jeff Mosher is offering several holiday dining experiences in Napa including Christmas, New Year’s and a prix ﬁxe menu for December. While you are there, be sure to try this month’s signature cocktail, Julia’s Alexander. 707.259.1600, copia.org Island Hotel Newport Beach Experience all that Newport Beach has to offer—or just stay in and savor breakfast in bed with the Bed and Breakfast Package. Package in108

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cludes breakfast for two in the privacy of your room and complimentary valet parking. $279 per night. Also, enjoy a Christmas day buffet brunch, $75 adults, $38 children. 888.321.4752, islandhotel.com Kimpton Hotels The Argonaut Hotel, Harbor Court Hotel, Hotel Monaco San Francisco, Hotel Triton, Hotel Palomar San Francisco, Prescott Hotel, Serrano Hotel and Sir Francis Drake invite you to travel to San Francisco by train and save on hotel costs. Guests presenting a ticket stub from BART, Amtrak or Caltrain will receive 20 percent off accommodations until

Nick’s Cove & Cottages Eat, drink and be merry in one of several distinctive seaside settings featuring spectacular views of Tomales Bay. Nick’s Cove offers space, special holiday menus and drinks for holiday parties, events or family getaways. 415.663.1033, nickscove.com Taj Boston Enjoy brunch on the roof and take in dramatic views of the Boston skyline this autumn. The roof is only open to the public at special times during the year, so now is the perfect time to take advantage of the Boston Brunch on the Roof Package including rooftop brunch and a deluxe room for two. $499. 877.482.5267, tajhotels.com The Grand Del Mar New Year’s Eve is a grand event at the Grand Del Mar featuring a ﬁve-course dinner with wine pairings, a champagne toast at midnight, dancing and live entertainment, December 31. $395 per person. 888.314.2030, thegranddelmar.com The Lodge at Sonoma It’s a Robledo family tradition. Celebrate Feliz Navidad with a traditional ﬁve-course Mexican holiday meal and paired wine, December 11. Package includes room, dinner wine tasting, spa treatment and breakfast. $399. 707.935.6600, thelodgeatsonoma.com The Resort at Pelican Hill Bring your family together with two unique “Togethering” packages from Pelican Hill on the California coast. Choose the Christmas or Hanukkah package and treat the family to accommodations in a two-bedroom villa, a family portrait, special holiday meals and more, December 21–30. Packages are $1,750 per night for a family of four. 800.315.8214, pelicanhill.com MARINMAGAZINE.COM

Original Vintage Jewelry from the 18th, 19th & 20th Centuries

RETAIL THERAPY Christopher Peacock Cabinetry The San Francisco Design Center welcomes Christopher Peacock. Christopher Peacock Cabinetry (SF). 415.692.5002, peacockcabinetry.com Gump’s Stop by the holiday shop for a full selection of collectible ornaments, nutcrackers, Santas, gifts, stocking stuffers and vintage toys this season. Gump’s San Francisco (SF). 415.982.1616, gumps.com Junbesi Group Studio Check out the end-of-year sale featuring European designer shoes and Neely Mack handbags, thru December 23. Also, visit the store December 3 for a special shoes, bags and jewelry sale. Junbesi Group Studio (Sausalito). 415.332.6833, neelymack.com

415-982-2213 www.langantiques.com 323 Sutter Street, San Francisco

Kiehl’s Since 1851 The famous New York– based purveyor of skin and hair care products has three new holiday gift boxes available and a new Corte Madera store location. Select the Ultimate Man Collection or Men’s Refueling Kit for the man in your life. The Village at Corte Madera (Corte Madera). 800.543.4572, kiehls.com Strawberry Village Get all your holiday presents wrapped this season at Strawberry Village in Mill Valley by the Marin League of the San Francisco Symphony December 12–23. strawberryvillage.com Tory Burch Visit the new Tory Burch store in San Francisco this holiday season and be sure to pick up a limited-edition Save the Children compilation CD featuring Youssou N’Dour, James Hunter and others. All proceeds go to Save the Children. Tory Burch (SF). 415.398.1525, toryburch.com MARINMAGAZINE.COM

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P HOTO: TIM P ORTER

F LAVO R

Organic Marin RECIPES FROM LAND TO TABLE Written and photographed by Tim Porter and Farina Wong Kingsley, and produced by Marin Magazine, this is a seasonal cookbook that celebrates the organic farmers and ranchers of Marin County. Flavor will feature a recipe from Organic Marin each month. The book can be purchased at local bookstores or by going to marinmagazine.com /organicmarin

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DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup This irresistible soup is served in the fall at Rustic Bakery in Larskpur. Kabocha and acorn squash are great substitutes for Butternut. Leave out the cream for a lighter consistency. PREPARE SOUP

Preheat an oven to 375°F. Line a baking

1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil

sheet with parchment paper. Rub the olive

and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, until the squash

1 large butternut squash (about 3 pounds),

oil over the cut side of the squash and sea-

begins to caramelize and stick to the bottom

halved and seeded

son with a 1/4 teaspoon of the salt and 1/8

of the pan. Pour in the chicken stock, bring

3/4 teaspoon salt

teaspoon of the pepper. Place the squash,

to a boil, then decrease the heat to a simmer

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

cut side down, on the prepared pan. Tuck the

and cook for 15 minutes. Purée the soup until

6 cloves garlic

garlic cloves and thyme sprigs under the cav-

smooth with a hand-held blender or in a food

4 thyme sprigs

ity of the squash. Roast the squash 50 to 60

processor. Return it to the pan if necessary and

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

minutes, until soft and caramelized. Remove

stir the cream. Taste and adjust the seasoning.

1 large yellow onion, chopped

from the oven and let cool. Reserve the gar-

For the croutons: Melt the butter in a

3 shallots, chopped

lic cloves and discard the thyme. Scoop the

small sauté pan over medium heat. Stir in

4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

butternut squash ﬂesh from the skin, coarsely

the cubes of bread and toast, stirring, for 5

1/4 cup heavy cream

chop, and set aside.

to 7 minutes, until golden brown.

CROUTONS

Melt the butter in a dutch oven or soup pot

To serve, ladle the hot soup into warmed

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

over medium-high heat. Sauté the onions and

shallow bowls, dollop each with 1/2 teaspoon

1 cup 1/2-inch diced white bread

shallots for 7 to 10 minutes, until they begin

of crème fraîche, sprinkle with the croutons

1 tablespoon crème fraîche

to brown. Add the roasted butternut squash,

and chives.

1 tablespoon fresh minced chives

the reserved garlic cloves, and the remaining

high speed dinner connection.

Serves 6 as a ﬁrst course.

www.jessieetlaurent.com

We deliver fresh, savory entrées from our kitchen to your door. Visit our web site or call Jessie et Laurent for all of the details.

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DECEMBER 2008

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INSIDER’S GUIDE

DINE OUT CORTE MADERA BENISSIMO Italian Benissimo means “really really good” in Italian. From margherita pizza to veal parmigiana to mocha mud pie, Benissimo serves a taste of Italy in a casual neighborhood venue. 18 Tamalpais Dr, 415.927.2316, benissimos.com CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN Cal/Eclectic Be prepared for chaos. Easy place to meet with kids; Mom/Dad can enjoy a tasty Thai crunch salad and decent glass of wine while the little ones feast on basic kid-size portions of pasta and pizza. 347 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.945.0401 IL FORNAIO Italian Sausalito’s Larry Mindel hit a home run with this upscale Italian 23-restaurant franchise. Besides the award-winning breads, pizzas and pastas, the menu boasts a variety of salads and noncarb entrées. 223 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.927.4400, ilfornaio.com IZZY’S STEAKS & CHOP HOUSE American The legendary San Francisco steak house has moved north. Known for great steaks and seafood as well as its ﬁne wine selection, this is a great spot for a group or intimate dinner for two. Be sure to try

the New York steak and lobster. 55 Tamal Vista, 415.924.3366, izzysrestaurant.com LA MAISON DE LA REINE Vietnamese A refreshing change amid the plethora of Italian, Mexican and Chinese options. The crunchy cabbage chicken salad with peanuts, fresh spring rolls, and combinations of pho are delicious. 346 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.927.0288 MARIN JOE’S Italian Pasta and other Italian dishes have been served up here for over 50 years. Pick from soup, salad, seafood mesquitegrilled or sautéed meats and over 10 pasta options guaranteed to satisfy. Have a drink and hear local musicians at the well-known piano bar. 1585 Casa Buena Dr, 415.924.2081, marinjoesrestaurant.com MAX’S CAFE American Located across from Town Center, Max’s is renowned for casual ambience and large portions. The menu changes with the season but features year-round favorites like matzo ball soup and BLTs. Besides decadent portions or comfort food and desserts, the menu also offers seasonable local produce and healthy items too. 60 Madera Blvd, 415.924.6297, maxsworld.com PACIFIC CATCH Pan-Asian This well-priced fresh grill eatery offers a bounty of Paciﬁc Rim—inspired small or main plates, like the generously portioned wasabi bowls filled with rice (white or brown), veggies and your choice of fresh or raw fish, chicken or beef. 223 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.927.3474, paciﬁccatch.com P.F. CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO Chinese As of 2008, Marin diners don’t have to travel in order to

enjoy the famed orange chicken, salt-and-pepper calamari or Mongolian beef. The restaurant serves lunch, dinner and takeout. 301 Corte Madera Town Center. 415.413.9890, pfchangs.com RICK’S WINE CELLAR California This one-room, bar and wine shop is located at the same spot as Marin’s first wine bar, which opened back in 1988. Now owned and operated by Marin natives Rick and Candy Mendell, whose customers call it the “Cheers of Corte Madera.” Offerings include a glass, a ﬂight or a bottle, all of which pair nicely with the cheeses, salami and hot paninis. 207 Corte Madera Ave, 415.927.9466, rickswinecellar.com

FAIRFAX DEER PARK VILLA Italian This “best place for a party” (Paciﬁc Sun) sits on four garden acres; the Ghiringhelli family has been turning out Italian favorites here since 1937. Come for the famous veal parmesan—or your next big celebration. 367 Bolinas Rd, 415.456.8084, deerparkvilla.com IRON SPRINGS PUB & BREWERY American Grab a beer and a grilled portobello mushroom sandwich—which one Chronicle reviewer calls “the best mushroom dish I have ever tasted”—at the former Ross Valley Brewing Company. 765-A Center Blvd, 415.485.1005, ironspringspub.com PANCHO VILLA’S Mexican A Fairfax favorite for over 30 years. Since 1976, head chef Francisco has been turning out treats like chile relleno stuffed with jack cheese, cilantro and onion and crab enchiladas topped with a mild tomatillo sauce and sour cream. 1625 Sir Frances Drake Blvd, 415.456.4331, panchosfairfax.com SORELLA CAFÉ Italian Not only is the food satisfying and tasty; the service is friendly and the ambience is warm and inviting. 107 Bolinas Rd, 415.258.4520

GREENBRAE CAFE Z American A pleasant surprise in the Bon Air shopping mall. Dishes like grilled chicken pesto panini and savory crepes have quickly made this intimate spot a local favorite, and inventive meals keep people coming back for more. 282 Bon Air Center, 415.461.9444, cafez.com JASON’S Italian The restaurant’s new Greenbrae location (it was formerly on Andersen Drive in San Rafael), ﬁlls the space that was formerly Giorgio’s. A crowd of regulars enjoys creative seafood dishes with Italian ﬂair. Enjoy the ceviche, crab cakes or blackened salmon on the large outdoor covered patio. 300 Drakes Landing Rd, 415.925.0808, jasonsrestaurant.com

Interior of the Melting Pot in Larkspur.

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WIPEOUT BAR & GRILL American Belvedere residents Nancy and Scooter Simmons, known for the popular Chevy’s chain, have brought their San Francisco location of the surf-themed Wipeout

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

Bar & Grill to the Bon Air Center. The restaurant features a full bar, outdoor patio and familyfriendly items like sandwiches, burgers and pizza in a T-shirt-and-sandals atmosphere. 302 Bon Air Center. 415.461.7400, wipeoutbarandgrill.com

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KENTFIELD HALF DAY CAFE American A tucked-away setting of intertwining ivy and great white windows makes the perfect breakfast nook. The setting is casual but elegant; the menu includes lattes, exceptional pastries and much more. Dine on the outdoor patio or inside where the view is just as divine. 848 College Ave, 415.459.0291 WILLIE’S CAFE American Stop here for down-toearth atmosphere and reasonable prices. This cozy spot offers breakfast, lunch and dinner; favorites include corn pancakes and veggie frittata. 799 College Ave, 415.455.9455

LARKSPUR CJ CHINESE CUISINE Chinese Great spot to satisfy a craving for wonton soup before catching a show at the Lark Theater; lunch and takeout are popular too. 435 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.0717

2231 larkspur landing circle, larkspur 415.925.0303 eotrading.com

E & 0 TRADING COMPANY Southeast Asian Chef Edwin Cabriloa-Torres is keeping the restaurant’s innovative plates like Indonesian corn fritters and Thai seafood clay pot as tasty as ever. Without reservations, try a spot at the large communal table. 2231 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.925.0303, eotrading.com EMPORIO RULLI Italian Pastry chef Gary Rulli is renowned for his Northern Italian specialties and treats. The Larkspur location (there are three others) is a popular spot for lunch as well as coffee and a sweet. 464 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.7478, rulli.com FABRIZIO RISTORANTE Italian Traditional Italian dishes with an extensive wine list from regions all over Italy; outside seating makes the experience even more special. 455 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.3332

Celebrating 30 Years in Marin! Restaurant & Wine Bar • Private Banquet Room • Catering

LARK CREEK INN American This ﬂagship eatery for the Lark Creek Restaurant Group opened back in 1989 and was hailed by the New York Times as having “the best home cooking you can imagine.” It remains a perennial special occasion spot and is still known for inventive country cooking—as well as a cozy bar scene. 234 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.7766, larkcreek.com LEFT BANK RESTAURANT French Known for award-winning French cuisine and its lively brasserie ambience, this corner spot has rated high with locals for well over a decade. Those with a petite appetite/budget can opt for happy hour (4–6 M–F) and enjoy appetizers, all priced under three dollars. Otherwise, the Coq Au Vin or grilled rib eye are great choices. 507 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.3331, leftbank.com

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415-388-9100 1 BlackÄeld Drive, Tiburon, The Cove Shopping Center

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MARIN BREWING CO American Grab a cold beer made right on site and pair it with fish and chips—fresh cod dipped in Mt. Tam pale ale batter, served with steak fries and homemade tartar sauce. 1809 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.461.4677, marinbrewing.com PICCO California C h e f a n d c e l e b r a t e d restaurateur Bruce Hill deserves the accolades he has received for this eclectic shared-plate heaven. Dishes like mini-burgers and seasonally driven menu items, along with risotto made every half hour, keep people coming back. The Picco Pizzeria and Wine Bar next door is cozy (not many seats) but already famous for its wood-fired pizzas, great wine selection and soft-serve Straus Family Creamery ice cream. 320 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.0300, restaurantpicco.com RUSTIC BAKERY California Organic mouthwatering pastries, breads, and sandwiches are on the menu here. The Meyer lemon mascarpone danish and the bacon, avocado and heirloom tomato sandwich with mesclun are perennial temptations. 1139 Magnolia Ave, 415.925.1556, rusticbakery.com TABLE CAFÉ Indian/American Indian-inspired cafe offers a unique menu featuring entirely organic ingredients. Dishes include seasonal salads, incredible soups and fresh juices. The specialty of the house is dosa, filled with a variety of ingredients and served with savory homemade chutneys. You can also take home a choice of three or four gourmet dinners freshly packed daily. 1167 Magnolia Ave, 415.461.6787 TAM CELLARS Wine bar This wine shop includes an elegant bar with seating for up to 36 people, 30 wines by the glass and tasting flights. Tam Cellars specializes in hard-to-find wines and small production wineries. Enjoy a glass or bottle to pair with the selection of appetizers. Live music on Thursdays. 1803 Larkspur Landing, 415.461.9463, tamcellars.com THE MELTING POT French Just across the street from the Larkspur Ferry terminal is a round red-brick haven for fondue fans. Share the “Big Night Out” feast featuring chef’s specialties, or design your own spread with cheese fondue, salad, choice of meat entrée and chocolate fondue dessert. 125 E. Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.461.6358, themeltingpot.com YANKEE PIER American This family-friendly casual clam shack is harbored in a quaint house built in 1924 as a private residence. Though known for beer-battered fish’n’ chips, clam chowder and tasty salads, Yankee Pier serves fresh seafood delivered daily from both coasts with special dishes by new chef Brian Beach. 286 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.7676, yankeepier.com

MILL VALLEY BALBOA CAFE MILL VALLEY California The San Francisco institution owned by the Plumpjack Group makes its debut in Mill Valley. Come for the pan-roasted Alaskan halibut or risotto but stay for

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the amazing burgers. 38 Miller Ave, 415.381.7321, balboacafe.com BUCKEYE ROADHOUSE American Oysters Bingo, baby back ribs and chili-lime “brick” chicken are a few of the satisfying, comfort-food-type menu items that have made this classic roadhouse a favorite since the ’30s. The warm dark-wooded bar with red leather booths is a popular spot for cocktails, conversations or a light meal. 15 Shoreline Hwy, 415.331.2600, buckeyeroadhouse.com BUNGALOW 44 American Much like sister restaurant Buckeye Roadhouse, Bungalow 44 offers a mean dose of homey carbo- and lipidladen dishes, such as the burger, fried chicken and truffle fries, as well as a few lighter items. The bar is a neighborhood favorite, serving up tasty spirits and eye candy. 44 E. Blithedale Ave, 415.381.2500, bungalow44.com CACTUS CAFE AND TAQUERIA Mexican Recently under new management; the food is better than ever. They still offer the lunchtime bargain burrito, as well as fish tacos and Caesar salads with grilled chicken or shrimp. Be sure to opt for the diablo sauce on enchiladas and burritos and ask for extra chips. 393 Miller Ave, 415.388.8226 CAFE DEL SOUL California Beware of addiction. Once you stop in for the deliciously fresh Hummus Yummus wrap, you’ll have to come back to sample the chipotle Sunrise Rice Bowl; then it will be the Thai It Up wrap with peanut sauce washed down with ginger limeade that brings you back, and so on. Casual lunch spot, great for takeout. Find out why Cafe Del Soul is a local favorite for fresh and organic food. 247 Shoreline Hwy, 415.388.1852, cafedelsoul.net DIPSEA CAFE Comfort One word: biscuits. This longtime breakfast spot has been serving up tasty pancakes and egg dishes with homemade biscuits since 1986. Try a biscuit with a poached egg, a biscuit with sausage—or just plain butter. Lunch specialties include BLTs and tuna melts and generous Cobb salads. Now serving dinner. 200 Shoreline Hwy, 415.381.0298, dipseacafe.com EL PASEO French Keiko Takahashi, a prominent Tokyo chef known for her modern French cuisine, transports her flair to Mill Valley. With a cottagelike feeling, this fine dining restaurant serves meals that are nothing less than exquisite. A great place to enjoy a meal with friends. Reservations recommended. 17 Throckmorton Ave, 415.388.0741, elpaseorestaurant.com

JOE’S TACO LOUNGE Mexican A longtime local favorite, Joe’s serves up regular fare such as tasty fish tacos, burritos and enchiladas as well as more unusual items like Mexican pizza, tofu salad, and crab tostados. Colorful interior and (usually) quick service makes this a fun, easy stop. And if there are too many unsupervised kids for a peaceful meal, takeout is easy too. Alone? Grab a magazine and seat at the counter and enjoy the action. 382 Miller, 415.383.8164 LA GINESTRA Italian A favorite family spot for over 30 years; getting a table or booth can take a while. While this old-school Italian eatery is known for traditional pastas, veal dishes, pizzas and dry martinis, the familiar wait staff is also part of the attraction. 127 Throckmorton Ave, 415.388.0224 LUCINDA’S MEXICAN FOOD Mexico Singled out for “best burrito” by the Pacific Sun in 2005, this is a prime place to grab lunch and head back to the office. 930 Redwood Highway, 415.388.0754 MAMA’S ROYAL CAFE American No one should miss this fabulous kitsch-decorated spot. Appetizing crepes, brioche French toast and other breakfast treats are served all day; stay awhile and try the sandwiches for lunch. 387 Miller Ave, 415.388.3261 MARIA MARIA Mexican The menu at Maria Maria draws from diverse regional cuisines of Mexico, including slow braised duck tacos, guacamole prepared tableside and Guajillo Marinated Red Snapper Filet. 651 E. Blithedale, 415.381.1070. mariamariarestaurants.com MILL VALLEY COFFEE SHOP American Sure, it could use a steam clean, but the regulars keep coming back for the pancakes and eggs. Great place to bring the kids. 4 Locust Ave, 415.388.6958 PIAZZA D’ANGELO Italian It’s always a party at this long-standing hot spot. A great place to meet up with friends for a fresh plate of pasta, zuppa di pesce or pollo novello, or make some new friends at the bar. 22 Miller Ave, 415.388.2000, piazzadangelo.com PIATTI RISTORANTE AND BAR Italian Reopened, after an extensive remodel, with chef Chris Fernandez on board leading the kitchen with a menu coinciding with seasonal food from local producers. The crudo and pizza are not to be missed. 625 Redwood Hwy, 415.380.2525, piatti.com

FRANTOIO RISTORANTE ITALIANO Italian Known for its in-house olive press, superior olive oil and excellent Italian cuisine, this is a great location for large groups. Ask to sit in the press room for private parties. 152 Shoreline Hwy, 415.289.5777, frantoio.com

RAIN TREE CAFÉ American/Homestyle In the newly remodeled Strawberry Village shopping center wonderful American fare: soups, salads, burgers, sandwiches and gourmet crepes. Savor the Mill Valley Crepe: smoked salmon, capers, spinach, and Dijon in a fresh warm wrap. Breakfast is served all day. 610 Strawberry Village, 415.380.8886, caferaintree.com

INDIA PALACE Indian Known as “that great restaurant in the Travelodge,” India Palace is a favorite among the takeout crowd; however, eating on site is a treat too. Enjoy your meal with occasional live music and Indian beer. 707 Redwood Hwy, 415.388.3350

SMALL SHED FLATBREADS California As a slow food chef, Ged Robertson uses only local, mostly organic ingredients. Crowd favorites include the Mt. Tamal-Pie, a delicious fresh salad atop a flatbread. 17 Madrona St, 415.383.4200, smallshed.com

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THEP LELA Thai This jewel is tucked away in the back of the new Strawberry Village. Diners come for the tasty kee mao noodles, pad thai, fresh rolls and extensive bar menu. It’s also a great place for lunch. 615 Strawberry Village, 415.383.3444 VASCO Italian Whether you’re at a table, the bar or the back counter, you can expect an intimate and tasty dining experience at this one-room trattoria. Don’t miss trying one of the restaurant’s pasta dishes or thin-crust pizzas. 106 Throckmorton Ave, 415.381.3343

NOVATO AURORA RISTORANTE ITALIANO Italian Locals have already discovered this cheery and bright new Italian restaurant serving large portions of traditional food. Enjoy your meal on the large outdoor deck. 8 Commercial Blvd, 415.382.8488 BOCA STEAK & SEAFOOD South American Serving up an Argentinean-inspired menu in Novato with much ado. House specialties include provolenta, gambas al ajillo, and empanadas, as well as hand-cut (grass- and grain-fed) steaks. 340 Ignacio Blvd, 415.883.0901, bocasteak.com CACTI GRILL American Grill A former bell tower church, the family-friendly restaurant now boasts a covered patio and serves a 21-day dry-aged steak and ﬁlet mignon enchiladas. Be sure to ask about the selection of California wines. 1200 Grant Ave, 415.898.2234, cactigrill.com

FINNEGAN’S MARIN American This pub-style restaurant features tasty appetizers, grilled ﬂatbread pizzas and entrees including New York steak, garlic herb chicken and a braised beef and pork ragu that will really stick to your ribs. Wine, beer and cocktails are available. 877 Grant Ave, 415.899.1516, ﬁnnegansmarin.com PORTELLI ROSSI Italian The owners of Kitchen at 868 Grant have reopened as Portelli Rossi—which means red door in Italian. This casual cafe offers huge portions (most priced under $20), a garden patio and a family-friendly environment. 868 Grant Ave, 415.892.6100, portellirossi.com WILDFOX American Perched on the hillside off Highway 101, this rustic mesquite grill offers a menu full of comfort food and drinks, like the smooth cosmos, and seafood risotto, with bits of butternut squash. In the mood for a cigar? The restaurant has an extensive list. 225 Alameda del Prado, 415.883.9125, wildfoxrestaurant.com

ROSS CAFE MARMALADE French This quaint oneroom coffeehouse is centrally situated near Ross Common. Get there early for the full selection of pastries to enjoy with fresh-squeezed orange juice. 22 Ross Common, 415.461.2205 MARCHÉ AUX FLEURS French This gem of a restaurant serves up locally farmed produce, wild and fresh seafood and free-range meats prepared

with an artisan’s touch. The wine and beer list is extensive. 23 Ross Common, 415.925.9200, marcheauxﬂeursrestaurant.com TRATTORIA FRESCO Italian Every neighborhood deserves a one-room trattoria like this one. The service is friendly and the farmers’-market-fresh food is fabulous—especially the gnocchi. 13 Ross Common, 415.464.0915

SAN ANSELMO AVA California Chef Dan Baker, of Marché aux Fleurs in Ross, has another winner with AVA, which features a California-only wine list and a menu where nearly all the ingredients come from within 100 miles—if not the Marin County Farmers’ Market. The small menu includes seasonal ﬂatbreads, pasta and six seasonal main dishes. 636 San Anselmo Ave, 415.453.3407 CUCINA RESTAURANT AND WINE BAR Italian Proprietor Jack Krietzman (of Pacific Heights’ Jackson Fillmore) has brought Milan to Marin with his 42-seat family restaurant. Relax with a glass of wine and have a slice from the to-die-for thin pizzas, topped with items like trufﬂe oil and fontina cheese. 510 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.2942 DEBBIE DOES DESSERT Bakery Besides sweets, the menu offers tapas on weekends and savory dishes such as grilled duck aux pêche with lavender honey sauce on galette de mais. 556 San Anselmo Ave, 415.721.2901, debbiedoesdessert.com

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FORK California This intimate spot was awarded “Top Food in the Bay Area” by Zagat for 2007. Opt for the ﬁve-course tasting menu or seasonal à la carte options. The three-course special for $20 is available during the ﬁrst seating. 198 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.453.9898, marinfork.com INSALATA’S Mediterranean Award-winning chef Heidi Insalata Krahling offers Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes prepared with local organic produce and artisan meats. 120 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.457.7700, insalatas.com LOCOCO’S PIZZERIA Italian Worth driving to from all over Marin, and it’s an easy place to meet with friends and family. The pizza crust is divine as is the house salad. Easy spot to come with the entire family. Closed Mondays. 638 San Anselmo Ave, 415.453.1238, lococossananselmo.com PLAYDATE CAFÉ American Parents on the run love to stop in for a sandwich while the kids toss and tumble. 101 San Anselmo Ave, 415.459.7529, playdate-cafe.com TACO JANE’S Mexican Named after the owner’s mother, this casual but colorful place welcomes the whole family. Don’t miss out on Jane’s handmade agave margarita or griddled plantains with Jane’s crema. 21 Tamalpais Ave, 415.454.6562, tacojanes.com

SAN GERONIMO TWO BIRD CAFÉ California This roadside cafe has it all, including fresh ﬁsh and goodies from the garden. These guys were doing local and sustainable before it was so popular. 625 San Geronimo Valley Dr, 415.488.0105, twobirdcafe.com

SAN RAFAEL BOMBAY GARDEN Indian The restaurant offers a large menu of richly flavored Northern and Southern Indian Cuisine. There are often Bollywood movies or videos playing on a flat-screen TV to add a little entertainment to the meal. 909 Fourth St, 415.459.9555, dinebombaygarden.com CAFE GRATITUDE Raw The waiters might push the affirmations theme a bit too much, but the tasty (and healthy) food is worth it. Besides the knowledge you’re supporting local farmers and sustainable agriculture, the raw food and vegan samosas are hard to resist. Best to bring a group and sample lots of items on the menu. 2200 Fourth St, 415.824.4652, withthecurrent.com CREPEVINE American Bistro/Creperie Offering casual dining, outdoor seating and a diverse menu of savory crepes (such as the Italian crepe filled with roasted peppers, eggplant, onions, artichoke hearts, tomato sauce and mozzarella). Sweet and savory crepes are available all day long, as is breakfast. 908 Fourth St, 415.257.8822 MULBERRY STREET PIZZERIA Italian Chef Ted Rowe won first place in the Food Network Television Pizza Challenge with his Mushroom Lover’s Pizza—

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sautéed mushrooms in a creamy garlic sauce atop a fresh pizza crust. Located across from the Smith Ranch Road movie theaters, it’s a great place to grab dinner and a movie. 101 Smith Ranch Rd, 415.472.7272, mulberry-street-pizzeria.com SABOR OF SPAIN Spanish Named Best Tapas/ Small Dishes restaurant in Marin by the Pacific Sun in 2006, this Spanish-wine bar is a great place for a date or a big party. The gazpacho is world class here and a must-try. 1301 Fourth St, 415.457.8466, saborofspain.com SAN RAFAEL JOE’S Italian Guido and Theresa Farina are now running this Marin institution, which has been famous for serving up sophisticated yet casual Italian fare since 1947. The Pacific red snapper meuniere and roast sirloin of beef are standouts. 931 Fourth St, 415.456.2425, srjoes.com SEAFOOD PEDDLER Seafood A great place to seek out fresh seafood in a warm and inviting environment. Varieties of East and West Coast fish flown in daily. Dine indoors or out, or better yet, rent out the banquet room for a party. 100 Yacht Club Dr, 415.460.6669, seafoodpeddler.com SOL FOOD Puerto Rican With south-of-theborder treats like yellow rice, beans, plantains and authentic Puerto Rican dishes, this tiny one-room eatery on Fourth Street just off Highway 101 can be hard to get into, but worth the wait. 732 Fourth St, and 901 Lincoln Ave, 415.451.4765 SUSHI TO DAI FOR Japanese Snagging a seat in this popular sushi spot can be a challenge, but patience will be rewarded with tasty and fresh sashimi, unique sushi rolls and great prices. 869 Fourth St, 415.721.0392

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THERESA & JOHNNY’S COMFORT FOOD American Cooking like mom used to make. Stop in for eggs Benedict, tuna melts, coffee and some of the best milk shakes around. 817 Fourth St, 415.259.0182, theresa-and-johnnys.com

SAUSALITO ANGELINO RESTAURANT Italian Father-andson chefs Pasquale and Alfredo Ancona offer handmade pastas and seasonal antipasti at this authentic Italian restaurant, which has been serving food from the Campania region for the past 24 years. 621 Bridgeway, 415.331.5225, angelinorestaurant.com ARAWAN THAI RESTAURANT Thai Known for its consistently tasty Thai food and efﬁcient, gracious service. For light fare try the imperial or Siamese rolls (vegetarian), or dig into the delicious pad thai noodles or garlic and pepper prawns. Arawan Thai has been a local favorite for over nine years. 47 Caledonia St, 415.332.0882, arawan.com CAFFÉ DIVINO Tuscan Locals come for the tasty pastas and salads, as well as coffee drinks, in a funky one-room setting full of nightly live music and art. Free delivery in Sausalito. 37 Caledonia St, 415.331.9355, caffedivinosausalito.com

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FENG NIAN Chinese Busy at lunch and dinner, this spacious hangout has been a popular spot for wonton soup, potstickers and daily specials for nearly two decades. For an indulgent treat order the Szechwan crispy calamari or honey-glazed walnut prawn. Free delivery. 2650 Bridgeway, 415.331.5300, fengnian.com FRED’S Coffee Shop A local hot spot for over 40 years. Don’t miss the famous deepfried French toast or the traditional Swedish breakfast. Not a breakfast person? The bacon bleu cheeseburger on a sourdough roll with fries is delicious too. Open daily 7 to 3. Breakfast served until 2. 1917 Bridgeway, 415.332.4575, fredscoffeeshop.com GAYLORD INDIA Indian Rated a “Restaurant of Excellence” by Zagat, Gaylord’s new location in Sausalito also features million-dollar views of San Francisco and the bay. All the dishes including samosas, curries and tandoori are made with fresh local produce, seafood and artisan meats. 201 Bridgeway, 415.339.0172, gaylord.com KITTI’S PLACE Pan-Asian Watch out Comforts (aka the best chicken salad in town): Kitty’s serves up a delicious crunchy fresh chicken salad, as well as light tasty spring rolls too. Popular with the lunch and take-out dinner crowd. 3001 Bridgeway, 415.331.0390 LE GARAGE French Olivier Souvestre left his position at executive chef at San Francisco’s Chez Papa Bistro to open his new waterfront cafe in Sausalito with partner Bruno Denis. Le Garage features standard French bistro fare like croque monsieur and brunch items like eggs Benedict with an emphasis on fresh seafood and a large selection of charcuterie. 85 Liberty Ship Way, 415.332.5625 MURRAY CIRCLE American Enjoy the sun on the deck of this Cavallo Point restaurant. Locals say they come back for the fresh seasonal ingredients like wild sturgeon and Wolfe Ranch quail that chef Joseph Humphrey cooks up. 601 Murray Circle, 415.339.4750, cavallopoint.com PARADISE BAY American Enjoy the sun or dine under the stars at this waterfront restaurant. Locals say their favorites are the organic beef sandwiches and fresh Maine lobster clubs. 1200 Bridgeway, 415.331.3226, paradisebaysausalito.com

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POGGIO Italian A great place to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a night out. Executive chef Peter McNee cooks up delicious Northern Italian cuisine using fresh and local ingredients, including produce from the nearby Poggio chef garden. 777 Bridgeway, 415.332.7771, poggiotratoria.com SAYLOR’S RESTAURANT AND BAR California/ Mexican Owner and chef Sean Saylor has created a new menu, keeping some traditional favorites, and has moved the restaurant to a new location. The large menu is impressive and the bar’s selection of over 100 tequilas is hard to beat. 2009 Bridgeway, 415.332.1512, saylorsrestaurantandbar.com

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SCOMA’S Seafood Whether it’s for the view of San Francisco or the historical background, visitors ﬂock to this location for a romantic setting. The array of fresh seafood and meat dishes are appetizing as the Italian pasta dishes. 588 Bridgeway, 415.332.9551, scomassausalito.com

EXPLORE

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SUSHI RAN Japanese Fresh, innovative small plates are just big enough to share, the traditional sushi is melt-in-your-mouth good and the wine, cocktail and sake lists keep the pickiest barﬂy well satisﬁed. Even the prices don’t deter the herd of sushi enthusiasts, who line up nightly to partake; reservations required in main room. 107 Caledonia St, 415.332.3620, sushiran.com WELLINGTON’S California British transport Jeremy John and his wife Jill have created an expansive (2,400-square-foot) wine bar with a homey feel, board games, views of the bay and a worldly cellar featuring affordable bottles and special reserves. The menu offers wines by the glass for $5 to $20 and tasting flights of any three wines for $12. 300 Turney St, 415.331.9463, wellingtonswine.com WINSHIPS RESTAURANT American The more than four decades old nautical-themed restaurant is luring locals and tourists with hearty breakfasts and lunch options like tender fried calamari, clam strips, mussels and a giant prawn cocktail. Check out the newly-revised menu. 670 Bridgeway, 415.332.1454, winships.com

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TIBURON THE CAPRICE California Expansive Angel Island and San Francisco skyline views and an intimate atmosphere make this waterfront restaurant a top pick for romance. Beyond these attractions, locals like it for the food, including a three- to ﬁve- course menu created by executive chef Gregg Sessler —who according to Michael Bauer “has crafted a menu that can stand up to the big boys.” Come for the food, stay for the views. 2000 Paradise Dr, 415.435.3400, thecaprice.com COTTAGE EATERY California This one-room, recently remodeled eatery is the latest restaurant addition to Tiburon’s Ark Row. Having opened to rave reviews, owners Edward Carew and Jennifer Rebman, both formerly of New York—each with stints cooking at Gramercy Tavern—are attracting regulars with seasonal entrées like grilled branzino served with boulanger potatoes, watercress and a taggiasca olive vinaigrette and crispy suckling pig with Umbrian lentils, braised romaine, tomato and saba. Open Thursday through Sunday. 114 Main St, 415.789.5636, thecottageeatery.com GINZA Japanese The old Tiburon Tommie’s space on Main Street has been buffed and polished and reopened as a sleek, upscale sushi spot with the famous waterfront San Francisco views. This intimate setting offers menu items like sliced yellowtail, avocado, radish sprout, tobiko and spicy ponzu sauce as well as a variety of tempura and terriyaki dishes. The double hamachi roll is not to be missed. 41 Main St, 415.789.5123, ginzasushi-tiburon.com

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Presentation is everything.

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SIDE OF SUSHI CONGRATS TO SUSHI RAN MASTER CHEF MITSUNORI KUSAKABE, AKA “NORI,” who took top prize at last fall’s Seven Sushi Samurai, a world championship of sushi innovators. This London competition featured chefs from Japan, Sweden, the United States, England and Russia. Kusakabe beat out the competition with his presentation of “Seven Rice Samurai,” featuring the fermentation, frying, toasting, sautéing, roasting, freezing and extraction of rice. Perhaps those Michelin judges should rethink taking away that star. Sushi Ran is open nightly. sushiran.com CALLING ALL TREE-HUGGING SUSHI-LOVERS—or make that anyone even slightly concerned about dwindling fish species in our oceans. We now have many sources to tell us which menu items to opt for (wild salmon and wild shrimp) and which to avoid (bluefin tuna, farmed salmon). The Monterey Bay Aquarium has sponsored a set of three separate written guides in collaboration with the Blue Ocean Institute and Environmental Defense Fund, all available at montereybayaquarium.org. For further reading on the topic, San Francisco–based fishery and sustainability expert Aaron Casson Trenor’s just-released book Sustainable Sushi breaks down the typical sushi menu into three categories: sustainable (green), use caution (yellow) and unsustainable (red). For those who’d rather just order without mental gymnastics, there’s Tataki Sushi & Sake Bar at 2815 California Street in San Francisco, North America’s only sustainable sushi restaurant.

GUAYMAS Mexican Situated right next to the Tiburon ferry terminal on the waterfront. The touch-it-you’re-so-close city views and outdoor seating makes it a great place to bring visitors on a warm summer night. Happy hour is 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Menu includes specialties like puerco macho—pork loin chop with grilled plantain, topped with an ancho chile, garlic and onion sauce. Guaymas also offers a full bar and daily fresh ﬁsh selections. 5 Main St, 415.435.6300, guaymasrestaurant.com MILANO Italian Located in the Cove Shopping Center, this family-owned neighborhood spot is known for its pasta and friendly service. A good

place to take the kids—or catering option for your next birthday party. 1 Blackﬁeld Dr, 415.388.9100 NEW MORNING CAFE American Sit outside or indoors, casual cafe. On a sunny morning, tables will be filled with locals enjoying the sun and extensive breakfast menu; lunch served as well. Be sure to try the coffee and espresso. 1696 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.4315 ROONEY’S CAFÉ & GRILL American If you’re old enough to remember Cheers on prime time, here is your dinner spot. There’s not a long bar, nor a bartender named Sam (he’s across the street); however, there is an undeniable neighborhood

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feeling in this one-room cottage dining room. 38 Main St, 415.435.1911

C O R P O R AT E O F F I C E 4 1 5 - 4 6 0 - 1 5 7 5 NAPA VALLEY 707-963-2800

SAM’S ANCHOR CAFE American Everyone knows Sam’s deck is the prime spot for brunch on a lazy sunny Sunday, and its bar is the town’s historic watering hole, but Sam’s is also a great place for lunch or dinner. Enjoy trans-fat-free calamari, fresh ﬁsh, seasonal salads and pastas. Take in views of Alcatraz, Angel Island and San Francisco while you enjoy your meal. 27 Main St, 415.435.4527, samscafe.com SERVINO RISTORANTE Italian With people like Warren Buffett and Bill Gates raving about his pizza, Angelo Servino is doing something right. Some people come for the spacious and popular bar; some people come for the great food and friendly service; the titans of industry, it seems, opt for the pepperoni. Spacious bar, and weekend music is also a big draw. 9 Main St, 415.435.2676, servino.com SWEDEN HOUSE BAKERY Swedish A cozy spot and local favorite; the blue storefront opens into bay front windows with sweeping views of Racoon Straits and Angel Island. The menu is straight from Stockholm with Swedish and Danish pastries in the morning and open-faced sandwiches, Swedish meatloaf and light salads for lunch. 35 Main St, 415.435.9767

S O U T H B AY 6 5 0 - 2 9 9 - 9 4 0 0 GENERAL CONTRACTORS LIC. #395458

IMAGINE THE VIEW Y O U ’ V E A LWAY S WA N T E D . . . For over 30 years Plath & Company has been building dreams into reality from custom home building, renovation and remodeling to historic rehabilitation and commercial construction.

THREE DEGREES California Opt for the outside patio, white tablecloths in the dining room, or the swank modern setting of the bar, and enjoy the local, seasonal menu options like grilled Niman Ranch New York “cowboy” strip steak or seasonal risotto. 1651 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.5996, threedegreesrestaurant.com

w w w. p l a t h c o . c o m

WEST MARIN DRAKES BEACH CAFE Local If you’re OK with the long drive, you can’t beat the view and the fresh local ingredients used to make the burgers, salads and soups at this casual spot (Inverness). The best part: If you order too much, you can take a walk on the beach after lunch. 1 Drakes Beach Rd, 415.669.1297, drakesbeachcafe.com OLEMA INN California One of the most charming settings around, this inn and restaurant is a great destination lunch spot for a Sunday drive, or dinner Wednesday through Sunday. The menu includes imaginative combinations using regional and organic greens while the bar features a full wine list (Olema). 10000 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.663.9559, theolemainn.com PARKSIDE CAFE American Most people know it as the ultimate breakfast spot (think Guatemalan scramble or wafﬂe with blood orange-strawberry compote and whipped cream, alfresco) but lunch and dinners are great here too. Choose from an array of organic locally grown produce and artisan meats and wild seafood. The grilled quail, Hawaiian butterfish and the rib-eye steak are standouts (Stinson). 43 Arenal Ave, 415.868.1272, parksidecafe.com

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Tiburon. Non-members welcome. 415.945.9555

MARIN DECEMBER 2008

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How do well ow n you k in? a M r

CALL THE SHOT!

ten steak houses. 2100 Van Ness Ave, 415.673.1888, harrisrestaurant.com JONES RESTAURANT Comfort If you’re thinking of crossing the bridge, check out the brand new Jones Restaurant in the spot formerly occupied by the Marina Sports Bar. The bar manager, Tony Devencenzi, has created a menu featuring fresh ingredients and inventive takes on the classics. Don’t miss the muddled CucumberBasil Gimlet or the freshly squeezed 2400 Greyhound. 2400 Lombard, 415.440.2000, jones-sf.com MAMACITA Mexican Located in the former Cafe Marimba space, chef Sam Josi has made Mamacita a dining destination, drawing in locals with authentic Mexican cuisine and 100 percent pure agave tequila margaritas. 2317 Chestnut St, 415.376.1629, mamacitasf.com

Call the Shot has a simple premise: Tell us what this is a picture of and win a $100 gift certiﬁcate for Wipeout Bar & Grill in Greenbrae. To win, you must be speciﬁc. Sure, it’s a garage, but what city is it in? Even better, give us the name of the road it is on. Hint: The name has nothing to do with cheese, but there is good cheese nearby.

PINE CONE DINER American Just off the main road, Joannie Kwit has re-created the ultimate neighborhood diner. Vintage china and homemade curtains complement the eclectic but homey menu featuring local fare. A favorite for locals as well as tourists, bicyclists and motorcyclists (Point Reyes Station). 60 Fourth St, 415.663.1536, thepineconediner.com SURFER’S GRILL American The view doesn’t get better than this—nor does the surf salad. Built right out on Stinson Beach, this casual lunch spot offers up tasty fresh organic salads alongside corn dogs, burgers and fries (Stinson). Stinson Beach Park, Hwy 1, 415.868.1777, surfersgrill.com

SAN FRANCISCO AME Pan-Asian On the ground floor of the St. Regis Hotel, Ame Restaurant was designated “Best New Restaurant in 2007” by the Zagat guide. Known for raw treatments such as sashimi, crudo, tartare and carpaccio. Dinner only, reservations recommended. 689 Mission St, 415.284.4040, amerestaurant.com BOBOQUIVARI’S THE STEAK Steak/Seafood In the mood for surf and turf? Head out to Bobo’s and

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MARIN DECEMBER 2008

Here’s how to play: Go to marinmagazine.com, agree to the rules and submit your answer. Simple. We’ll choose the winner randomly from all the correct answers. Good luck! And the winner is: Rick Addicks of Novato won October’s Call the Shot by identifying Piccolo Pavilion in Corte Madera’s Menke Park.

be sure to order the iron skillet-roasted mussels, Dungeness crab, and of course, the steak dry-aged for four to six weeks. The proprietors (also of the Stinking Rose) claim it’s the only one of its kind on the West Coast. 1450 Lombard St, 415.441.8880, boboquivaris.com BONG SU Vietnamese Brainchild of Tammy Huynh, executive chef and co-owner of the popular Tamarine in Palo Alto. The interior is a mix of the modern and traditional; silk, wood and steel elements such as a giant bong su (plumeria), and ﬂoating orchids in towering glass vases. Recently voted one of Esquire magazine’s top 20 in 2006. 311 Third St, 415.536.5800, bongsu.com CANTEEN Cali/French It’s not easy to get a seat in this nationally noted California-French restaurant, partly because of its reputation and partly because there aren’t many. Ever since the former Rubicon chef Dennis Leary turned a run-down downtown coffee shop into one of the best spots in the city, people have been lining up to sample the goods. 817 Sutter St, 415.928.8870 HARRIS’ RESTAURANT Steak house A San Francisco institution for nearly a century. Wine Spectator ranked Harris’ as one of the nation’s top

MYTH Cali/French Innovative cuisine has made this one of the most popular spots in town. Located in Jackson Square, the space was home to failed restaurant MC2 before Myth’s original owner Tom Duffy scored a hit. 470 Paciﬁc Ave, 415.677.8986, mythsf.com PERBACCO Italian The seasonal Italian menu focuses on the northern Piemontese region, featuring handcrafted charcuterie, homemade pastas and regional dishes such as quail with persimmon and apple salad. 230 California St, 415.955.0663, perbaccosf.com PRES À VI International/Small plates Known for a wine list that’s sure to please any oenophile, including a large selection of flights and by-the-glass choices to pair with chef Kelly Degala’s shared small plates menu. One Letterman Dr, Building D, Ste 150, 415.409.3000, presavi.com PRESIDIO SOCIAL CLUB California Originally the barracks for enlisted men; menu features steaks, pork chops and fresh oysters. Throwing a party? Try the private room, which can accommodate 30 people. 563 Ruger St, 415.885.1888, presidosocialclub.com QUINCE California Book a reservation at least a month in advance to get a seat at one of the 15 tables in this tiny restaurant. The farmers’ market creations by chef Michael Tusk, formerly of Chez Panisse and Oliveto, are sure to please. 1701 Octavia St, 415.775.8500, quincerestaurant.com UMAMI Japanese Named for the “fifth flavor,” Umami is a member of the Sustainable Restaurants family, owned by partners Nate Valentine, Chef Sam Josi, and General Manager Stryker Scales, who also own Mamacita in the Marina. 2909 Webster St, 415.346.3432, umamisf.com YOSHI’S Japanese The 28,000-square foot, two-story restaurant and jazz club features robata and Shabu Shabu cooking by executive chef Shotaro Kamio. Come for the great food and stay for the live jazz. 1330 Fillmore St, 415.655.5600, yoshis.com

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New York Life Insurance Company This holiday season, give your family the most selfless gift – the financial security and protection that life insurance from New York Life can help provide. It comes with 163 years of financial strength and ensures they will always be taken care of. That’s the true spirit of giving.

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Union Street Goldsmith - The Client + The Design Team + The Craftsman. It all happens here. This collaboration facilitates the creative atmosphere. The result is evident in our work.

The Sanctuary Spa - Reward yourself with the gift of relaxation

1909 Union Street San Francisco, CA

The Sanctuary Spa at Bay Club Marin 220 Corte Madera Town Center

415.776.8048 unionstreetgoldsmith.com

and renewal. Ease into the holidays with a luxurious massage, body wrap and facial. The Sanctuary Spa at Bay Club Marin. Pamper yourself, you deserve it. 415.945.3030 bayclubmarin.com

na’s

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EVO Spa • Give a gift that shows you really care. An EVO Spa

In business for over 24 years, Julianna’s offers a wide selec-

Gift Card Renews, Rejuvenates and Nurtures Body, Mind and Spirit. Gift cards available for purchase at spa, by phone or online.

tion of ﬁne gemstones, unique fancy cut diamonds set in one-of-akind designs and ﬁne watches from Europe and beyond. Come visit us in The Village!

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The Village Corte Madera

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415.383.3223 evo-spa.com

415.924.9711 juliannasﬁnejewelry.com

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

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Holiday Gift Guide

ADVE RT IS I N G P R OMOTI ON

Holiday Gift Guide

ADVERTIS IN G PROMOTI O N

pinestreet papery Fine wrappings and embellishments. Holiday cards, gifts

Stellar Spa is Marin County’s premier day spa, offering many

and amusements. Calendars, journals, party favors and more. Find a little something for almost anyone on your list and ﬁnd the wrappings too!

innovative, relaxing and luxurious products and services. Gift certificates and spa packages are available for the holidays and any occasion!

42 1/2 Caledonia Street Sausalito, CA

26 Tamalpais Drive Corte Madera, CA

415.332.0650

Dazzle with diamonds! It is the season to sparkle. An alternative to the malls, we offer an extensive collection of carefully chosen designer jewelry from Europe, as well as One-Of-A-Kind pieces designed “in house”.

Champagne Salon & Day Spa is Marin’s Premier Full Service Luxury Day Spa. Hair, Nails, Facials, Air Brush Spray Tanning, Skin Rejuvenation, Massage, Wax and Tint, Hair Extensions.

415.459.5808 stephanhill.com

1 Blackﬁeld Drive (Cove Shopping Center) 415.380.9111 Tiburon, CA champagnesalonanddayspa.com

Ruth Livingston Studio - is located on Tiburon’s Ark row. On

Give the gift of a Marin getaway. Gift certiﬁcates for Marin’s ﬁnest boutique hotel collection: Waters Edge Hotel, Mill Valley Inn and Acqua Hotel are available. Call or visit any of the hotels for details.

1226 Fourth Street San Rafael, CA

display there are items from our award winning furniture collection, unique decorative objects, gifts, and jewelry by international and Bay Area artists. 74 Main Street Tiburon, CA

124

415.924.7300 stellarspa.com

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

415.435.5264 ruthlivingston.com

Acqua Hotel, Mill Valley Mill Valley Inn, Mill Valley Waters Edge Hotel, Tiburon

415.380.0400 415.389.6608 415.789.5999

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Old Gold Featuring classic hand fabricated and die struck jewelry,

The Write Gift

as well as the work of contemporary masters in jewelry design and technique......two romantic locations. www.oldgoldjewelry.com

Personalized, rich leather journals keep schedules, meeting notes, to-do lists or special secrets under lock and key. Available in scarlet, lime and fuchsia with lined-pages and elegant gold leaﬁng.

17 Main Street Tiburon, CA 415.789.9583

6 Albion Street Mendocino, CA 707.937.5005

888.808.FINE

ﬁnestationery.com

The best things in life are delivered. Babies, roses and now dinner! Give the perfect gift - world inspired cuisine made with the freshest of ingredients delivered to your home.

The Bar Method Revitalize your spirit and stay fit this holiday season with our challenging one-hour class that will strengthen and stretch your body and refresh your soul. Clothing, DVDs, and childcare also available.

415.485.1122

208 Bon Air Center Greenbrae (behind Mollie Stone’s)

jessieetlaurent.com

415.461.4461 barmethod.com

green apples

For the girl who gets what she wants. Guys, we’ll make it easy. Shop online or give us a call. We’ll wrap and deliver your perfect gift!

Solarium is Northern Marin County’s “Go To” store for fun fashion

110 Caledonia Street Sausalito, CA

815 Grant Ave. Novato, CA

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

415.331.8227 shopgreenapples.com

jewelry and gifts; featuring national brands such as Brighton and CRISLU, as well as work by many local artists such as Becky Kelso.

415.897.7556

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Holiday Gift Guide

ADVE RT IS I N G P R OMOTI ON

ADVE RT IS IN G P R OMOT ION

adl i b

MARIN ADVERTISERS SPEAK UP

Stephanie Waskins

Penny Wright Mulligan

Carol Green

Arader Galleries, San Francisco

Shamrock Materials, San Rafael

Arader Galleries has been selling original antique

Decker Bullock Sotheby’s International Realty, Larkspur

prints, watercolors and oils for over 35 years. “Our

“My mission is to provide the absolute best service

Bay’s source for ready-mix concrete, landscape

with extraordinary customer service nationally and internationally,” says gallery director Stephanie Waskins. “We are the leading dealers in our field not only for the quality of our works and immense inventory, but for providing the best possible

to each and every client regardless of the size of the transaction,” says realtor Penny Wright Mulligan, who has built, remodeled and sold custom homes for the past 20 years. The former PTA president is a local board member and national representative for

and building materials,” says architectural design representative Carol Green, “but few people really know everything we offer.” The designer showroom also carries an extensive line of natural stone, bricks, blocks and pavers, retaining wall systems

the National Charity League.

and home decor items.

deliveries and hanging services to building

What is your competitive edge?

wonderful reference libraries for our clients.”

I have lived in Marin County for more than 25

What do you feature at the Shamrock showroom?

customer

service

from

private

consultation,

years and I clearly understand the needs of growing

You’ll find an incredible array of natural stone

families and those who are ready to “down-size”.

displays, making it easy to visualize how the

nation. It is always fun to meet new people and

Describe your dream client.

largest selection of fireplaces, a roomful of fantastic

educate them about our gallery and the artwork we

A client who can clearly articulate their needs, has

Italian ceramics from Umbria and hand-painted

sell. Shows are a great way to meet people who

realistic goals and can comfortably place their trust

tables from Malta.

may never have the time to visit us in the gallery

in me. I have been fortunate to work with several of

in San Francisco and reach out to people who may

those and many have become friends!

What new products do you carry?

What did you want to be when you grew up?

beautiful hand-painted, volcanic stone tables from

What does Arader Galleries specialize in?

I was born to be in sales! When I was 10 we moved

Malta. The designs are colorful and authentic with

We focus on rare and unusual pieces, and those

to a farm and every summer our family had a

really great bases. They are beautiful both indoors

of great historical significance relating to early

contest, who could sell the most produce on the

or in an outdoor space.

exploration, natural history, botany, architecture

corner. The winner would get to choose the family

and cartography. Our collection of antique maps is

trip at the end of the summer. I won four years in a

extensive and contains highly collectable examples

row and we had some of the best beach vacations!

such as the first map to show the full extent of the

We all learned the value of hard work.

child I grew up on airplanes. I wanted to be the first

What do you enjoy about your job?

with natural stone instead.

What do you enjoy about your job? We participate in art and antique shows across the

have never heard of Arader Galleries.

United States from the Atlantic to the Pacific.

What type of clients do you work with?

Matching buyers with both the perfect home and

Many start off visually intrigued by the pieces and

neighborhood that suits their family’s needs. The

develop into life long clients that have a wonderful

best feeling is to be invited to their new home and

appreciation not only for the aesthetics of the art

see how they have made it their own.

but for the history behind these pieces. Penny Wright Mulligan, Decker Bullock Sotheby’s Stephanie Waskins, Arader Galleries, 435 Jackson

International Realty, 980 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur,

St, San Francisco, 415.788.5115, aradersf.com

415.601.8191, pennywrightmulligan.com

material looks when installed. We’ve got Marin’s

We’ve

just

received

our

first

shipment

What did you want to be when you grew up? My father worked for American Airlines so as a female pilot in the world; low and behold I work

What upcoming events do you have? Our design and decor open house is December 5; we’ll be introducing the Maltese tables and our holiday collection. Carol Green, Shamrock Materials, 548 DuBois St, San Rafael, 707.775.3911, shamrocknaturalstone.com

PHOTOS: SHERI MONTGOMERY

goal is to provide expertise in our field combined

“Everyone knows Shamrock Materials as the North

PAINTING

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DECKS LIKE NEW FAUX FINISHES COLOR

CONSULTATIONS

Expert Painting Inside and Out SINCE 1985

HAYES AND CO. 415.388.2087

Marin County has everything... Does your Club? Call 415-924-6226 www.mttamrc.com One Larkspur Plaza, Larkspur, CA 94939

Play outdoors...

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cool off outdoors...

or stay warm indoors...

feel the sunshine...

or feel the burn...

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MARINMAGAZINE.COM

MARIN DECEMBER 2008

127

Encore from the Staff of

DESIGNS

Marin’s Finest Consignment Shop

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MARIN DECEMBER 2008

272 Bon Air Center • Greenbrae, CA 94904 415.461.1866 • johannpaul@aol.com

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Sonoma Academy can oﬀer you

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A>/13 B=( E]`Y >ZOg 4WZ[ ;SRWbObS @SOR AZSS^ 1`SObS :WdS

6][S =TTWQS 5cSab 6]caS >ZOg @]][ G]UO AbcRW] 5SbOeOg A^]b¬ BVS ^]aaWPWZWbWSa O`S ZW[WbZSaa 7\bS`\ObW]\OZZg ^ÒWaSR Z]QOZZg TOP`WQObSR ;]RS`\ 1OPO\O ]TTSà >`STOP`WQObSR U`SS\ O\R acabOW\OPZS aÔQS a]ZcbW]\a b] TWb g]c` ZWTSabgZS

eee []RS`\QOPO\O Q][ BSZ " # $ '!! W\T].[]RS`\QOPO\O Q][

Marin’s Original Reclaimed Wood Company

• Antique Beams • Rustic Wide Plank Flooring • Exquisite Time-Crafted Timbers and Flooring

www.blacksfarmwood.com San Rafael Showroom • By Appointment 415.454.8312 130

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COUNTRY GARDENS GIFT SHOPPE

Now Celebrating 27 Years in Marin . . . Always Providing Excellent Service.

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Visit Marin’s Finest Greeting Card Shoppe -1+ FZ`ghebZ :o^gn^% EZkdlink% !-*." 2+-&/01-

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415.461.8084 MARIN DECEMBER 2008

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Results You Can See and Feel

MODEL

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MARIN DECEMBER 2008

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BRAND NEW ON THE MARKET! The answer to a breathable vacuum hairpiece, worn by our client pictured below. Designed by Charle to look as natural as a vacuum piece with the beneﬁt of being cooler and more comfortable. Sensitive solutions for hair loss due to: Alopecia Areata/female hereditary thinning/Chemotherapy/radiation treatments/Trichotillomania Oﬀering human hairpieces for women, men and children Toll Free: (888) 680-HAIR (4247) (Northern CA) San Rafael

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Real Estate - A Good Investment

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Great Food, Live Music, Fabulous Views

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Winner of Best of Marin & Green Entrepreneur Award

Wine Bar

By the glass . . . or buy the bottle . Small Plates Competitive Prices Larkspur Landing (next to Starbucks) www.tamcellars.com • (415) 461-WINE

MARIN DECEMBER 2008

133

MIC RO C LIMATE

SAUSALITO Houseboats, hilltops, hit songs and history BY DANIEL JEWETT

134

MARIN

PHOTOS TIM PORTER

DECEMBER 2008

ROM HOUSEBOATS TO MULTIMILLION-DOLLAR HOMES, hills to waterfront, national parks to downtown, Sausalito has a rare mix of culture and physicality that makes it one of the unique spots in the Bay Area. Just a short ride from San Francisco over the Golden Gate Bridge or across the water by ferry, sunny Sausalito is a favorite tourist destination full of great restaurants such as Poggio, Scoma’s, Sushi Ran and the Spinnaker as well as charming shops and gathering spots like Bacchus & Venus, Green Apples, No Name Bar and Smitty’s. They’re all located primarily on two streets forming the heart of the shopping district: Bridgeway Boulevard,

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

which borders the water and is a tourist mec-

as more than 15 percent of the city has been

Francisco and rides his bike across the bridge at

ca, and Caledonia Street, which runs parallel

underwater since 1868.

least three times a week. “Biking to work is the

tucked into town and is a locals’ favorite.

Current vice mayor and three-time mayor

best part of my day.”

But the city that inspired Otis Redding to

Paul Albritton fell in love with the area in his

Coming home to Sausalito and his family

write “(Sittin’ on) the Dock of the Bay” is also a

youth when he visited to ride bikes, take pho-

is another best thing. He moved here in 1985

great place to live, and more than 7,300 people

tos and ride the ferry to San Francisco. “The

to escape S.F. crowds: “We can walk to restau-

call the 2.2-square-mile city home. Except for

great thing about Sausalito is the variety, diver-

rants, the grocery store, the waterfront or the

the houseboat communities, residents live on

sity and intensity of the residents and the com-

beach. I can grab my son and walk right down

the 1.9 square miles of land that is above water,

munity,” he says. An attorney, he works in San

the steps to Swede’s Beach.”

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

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DECEMBER 2008

135

View of San Francisco from Southview Park.

Albritton started a family in the town he

a good year from a stock of more than 4,000.

ter it, Albritton says the citizens will have the

loves after “my wife came to stay (from New

“So I analyze the properties to find the correct

loudest voice.

Mexico) for the summer of 1989 and never

price for the seller and buyer.”

left.” They now have two children in their hilltop home with Angel Island views.

“We want to think about it and talk about

She says there isn’t always a lot of choice.

it,” he says, referring to the Imagine Sausalito

People just don’t move from Sausalito, and

project, which polls residents about their vi-

Peg Copple, who owns her own real es-

those who do seem to eventually move back.

sion for the future and breaks them into ac-

tate company and has lived in Sausalito 22

Even the famous houseboat communities, of

tion groups to study ideas. “We don’t want to

years, isn’t at all surprised somebody would

which there are seven depending on how you

just allow it to happen; we want to think about

choose to start a family here. “I see lots of

count, are hard to get into.

where we want to go.”

children and babies now,” she says, adding

In terms of price, one of the city’s 400

The group opens dialogues to discuss the

that it wasn’t always that way. “A lot of young

houseboats will run you an average of

sometimes competing interests of Sausalitans

families are moving here, people in their 30s

$600,000 plus dock fees, while a single-fam-

in a town dependent on tourism but protec-

and 40s. We are so close to the city and buses

ily home is hard to find for less than a mil-

tive of its borders at the same time. Imagine

and ferries and you get to live in this golden

lion dollars. From there all kinds of ranges

Sausalito has already raised more than $1 mil-

peaceful community.”

are possible, with a few options exceeding

lion in grants to study plans for a waterfront

Copple started her business 12 years

$4 million. The most expensive house sold

path, downtown harbor and local transporta-

ago with a strategic choice. “Marin County

in the city of Sausalito went for $8.5 million

tion and had success bringing free wireless ac-

is too big; I decided to become an expert in

last year and is on a one-acre lot with pan-

cess to downtown.

Sausalito.” And she has, rattling off all kinds of

oramic Bay Area views. If you have the cash,

No matter what happens, you can expect

information about local views, microclimates

Copple knows of a castle-like house-on-a-hill

Sausalitans to be passionate in their discus-

and fog patterns.

listed for $25 million.

sions as they try to make their beautiful city

“No two houses in Sausalito are similar,”

As for the future of a town so distinctive

says the agent, who sells about 100 houses in

Pepperidge Farms named a line of cookies af-

136

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

by the bay just a little bit more special than it is already is.

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

256 Seadrift Road in Stinson Beach: Available for the first time in over twenty years, this charming home features three bedrooms and two bathrooms, a spacious living-dining room with fireplace and open beamed ceiling. An Ocean-side deck with a glass windscreen overlooking the beach and a large dune area provides extra privacy on the ocean side. On a clear day San Francisco twinkles across the water from the ocean side deck. Beautiful enclosed and gated patio with views to Mt. Tamalpais. Great location on the Seadrift Spit! Offered at $5,300,00

,BUJF #FBDPDL 4FBESJGU $P 3FBMUPST 5FM $FMM 'BY LBUJF!TFBESJGUSFBMUZ DPN

6)%7 /52 02%-)5- 6!#!4)/. 2%.4!,3 !4 777 3%!$2)&42%!,49 #/- !.$ #!,, 53 !4

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

Connie Irwin 41 Monterey Avenue

San Anselmo

A Custom Built Retreat!

A gated entrance leads

to an architecturally stunning, upgraded craftsman home!

Upon entering, one is

greeted by a magnificent “great room” with open-beamed redwood timbers & skylight.

Situated for southwest exposure

& privacy on ¼+ acre with views of hills; close to town, park, & trails! Built to orchestrate & respond to the site - glass doors from rooms flow to outdoors! Gorgeous landscaping embraces the land! Paths take you to terraces that say, “sit, feel, play, be nurtured!” Large 4 bedroom 3 bath with sunroom.

$1,499,000

www.41Monterey.com

Connie Irwin Fletcher Irwin 4

MARIN

Real Estate, Naturally!

DECEMBER 2008

415.235.6263

Connie@connieirwin.com

www.ConnieIrwin.com

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

MARIN

DECEMBER 2008

ACTIVE: 15 EUTERPE STREET, MILL VALLEY

WE TAKE GREAT CARE to help you maximize the sale of your property. From the beginning, our team of “best in class” professionals will assess your property and implement a plan to maximize its sale and make it “market ready” before you list. ACTIVE: 31 PIEDMONT ROAD, LARKSPUR

24 / 7 R E A L E S TAT E K N O W L E D G E YO U C A N T R U S T Jimmy Wanninger | TEL 415.990.8990 24/7 | w w w.JimmyMarin.com

ACTIVE: 8 MEADOW RIDGE DRIVE, CORTE MADERA

WE PRIDE OURSELVES on offering our clients complete, up-to-the-minute details on all aspects of a home purchase or sale. We’ll keep you informed with executive summaries of current market trends and competitive market analysis unique to your situation. We make it a habit to clear the clutter of information surrounding real estate and give you the straight talk and concise information you need to successfully navigate through today’s market.

ACTIVE: 8 MEADOW RIDGE DRIVE, CORTE MADERA

ACTIVE: 24 TAMAL VISTA BOULEVARD, CORTE MADERA

24 / 7 R E A L E S TAT E K N O W L E D G E YO U C A N T R U S T Jimmy Wanninger | TEL 415.990.8990 24/7 | w w w.JimmyMarin.com

65 Marguerite Avenue, Mill Valley

RECENT SALES 30 Prospect Avenue, San Anselmo 1011 Erica Road, Mill Valley Buyer Representation 570 Oak Avenue, San Anselmo Buyer Representation 402 Eldridge, Mill Valley 945 Greenhill Road, Mill Valley

On a private lot in Blithedale Canyon, this home exudes grace and charm. The focal point of the Great Room is the exceptional oversized fireplace inviting all to sit around and enjoy the fire. A formal Dining Room sits right oﬀ the Great Room in a dramatic setting with views of the Canyon. Perfect for a casual meal is the informal dining area in the modern-style Chef’s Kitchen. On the upper level is the master suite with its own private deck overlooking the canyon. On the bottom level of the house are three more large bedrooms, all connected with an expansive deck nestled among the Redwoods. Connecting all three levels is a grand staircase with antique detail. In a separate guest house are a media room and private studio with en suite bathroom. Connecting the guest house and main house are a large deck perfect for entertaining and dining outdoors.

ACTIVE LISTINGS 277 Cascade Drive, Mill Valley $3,895,000 65 Marguerite Avenue, Mill Valley Please Call for Price 30 Lee Street, Mill Valley $1,795,000

Price Upon Request

Ron Parks CPA/Broker/Founder 415.297.9000 • rparks@visionrealtors.com

Today’s market demands a Realtor who can navigate the nuances of Marin

Consistent Results… Marin

Sonoma

John Zeiter Broker Associate/Realtor 415.720.1515 • jzeiter@visionrealtors.com |

San Francisco

www.visionrealtors.com www.visionrealestate.com

Incomparable…

8 Britton Avenue, Belvedere Finally a magnificent, single level home on the Bay side of Belvedere’s prestigious Britton Avenue has become available. This luxurious home has been heralded as “the most beautiful listing to become available in years!” Picture perfect views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco Bay, Sausalito and the Marin Headlands provide the perfect back drop for entertaining or just a cozy, comfortable retreat. Private master wing with “His” and “Hers” bathrooms, mirrored expansive walk in closets, fireplace, private garden and more. A dramatic large scale living area, two additional en-suite bedrooms, family/media room, elegant custom library and visually exciting Snaidero kitchen, outdoor water view patio and garden along with private and lush flowering courtyard complete this once-in-a-lifetime dream home. Offered at $6,200,000 All showings by appointment only.

KAREN PLASTIRAS 3rd Generation Marin Realtor 415.816.2256 • k.plastiras@deckerbullocksir.com www.deckerbullocksir.com

Decker Bullock Sotheby’s International Realty is pleased to announce the assimilation of Metes & Bounds, Inc., located at 211 Second Street in Sausalito, and the association of its principals, Randi Deutsch, Deborah Fletcher and David Grega. For the best advice and assistance available in the residential real estate marketplace, Decker Bullock Sotheby’s International Realty is at your service. Sausalito Office

(415) 331-9000

Ross Valley Office

(415) 461-2500

Southern Marin Office

(415) 381-7300

Belvedere-Tiburon Office (415) 435-0500

SAUSALITO OFFICE: ROSS VALLEY OFFICE: SOUTHERN MARIN OFFICE: BELVEDERE TIBURON OFFICE:

415.331.9000 415.461.2500 415.381.7300 415.435.0500

deckerbullocksir.com

© MMVI Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Les Bords de l’Epte a Giverny, used with permission. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a licensed trademark to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity . Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated, Except Offices Owned And Operated By NRT Incorporated.

Kimberly Airey

Corey Graham

Elizabeth Nicholson

Max Applegarth

Nadine Greenwood

Karen Plastiras

Bill Bullock

David Grega

Randy Redding

Anna Boucher

Tim Hill

Melissa Crawford

Craig Jackson

Olivia Decker

Parker Jones

Randi Deutsch

David Kirchhoff

Lydia Sarkissian Cindy Shelton Craig Swanson Sherry Ramzi

Dave DuPont

Tammy Wilks Kornfeld

Jaime DuPont

Lynn Lubbock

Alix Fagersten

Hugh Macmillan

Cheryl Wheeler

Colleen Fitzpatrick

Jenny Mattson

Patricia Scott Winslow

Deborah Fletcher

Penny Wright Mulligan

Robert Young

SAUSALITO OFFICE: ROSS VALLEY OFFICE: SOUTHERN MARIN OFFICE: BELVEDERE TIBURON OFFICE:

Kouros Tavakoli

415.331.9000 415.461.2500 415.381.7300 415.435.0500

deckerbullocksir.com

Ultra-contemp, 3-level, ±3,813 sf, w/ stainless steel & glass thruout. $3,995,000 Kappe+Du arch. 5 bd, 4.5 ba...

Resort-like waterfront villa, courtyard pool, top-flr mstr, huge waterfront $7,495,000 deck & dock, 3 bd, 4.5 ba…

Rare gated family compound with 2 sep homes, ±10,000 sf, huge patio & 60' lap pool, 10 bd, 13.5 ba… $19,500,000

Stunning Paradise Cay ±4000 sf hse. Sunny & bright. New kit, famrm, mstr, baths, & huge deck/dock. 4 bd, 4.5 ba… $3,795,000

Stunning SF & GG Bridge vws, kit/ fam rm, frml LR & DR, mstr w/sitting $7,250,000 rm & his/hers baths, 6 bd, 5.5 ba…

Former estate of Barry Levinson. ±10,000 sf on ±2 level ac, pool, guest qtrs, sep studio, $17,500,000 7 bd, 8 full & 3 half baths…

6,500+ sf of dramatic interior, gorgeous kit/fam, library, level lawn, $5,995,000 3-car gar, 6 en suite bd, 6.5 ba…

$4.75M $4.5M $5M

New constr, gated, modern, 1 story, ±3,929 sf, ±1.25 ac, chef’s kit, pano bay vws, 3-car $3,495,000 gar, 5 bd, 5.5 ba, seller financing avail.…

skyline views...

±9,000 sf, ±2.2 acres, stunning pool/ guest hse/office complex, SF & GGB $13,900,000 vws, 6 bd, 5.5 ba…

D LD

S TS LO

Expanded and remodeled, wndrfl new kit/fam, top-flr mster, gated, $3,775,000 private, pool, 6 bd, 4.5 ba…

DIN

PEN

$6M $6M

3 separate waterfront lots, west side, Mt Tam through San Francisco

Majestic parklike estate w/Mt. Tam vws, ±9500 sf on ±1.42 ac, mstr w/balcony, terr, pool, lvl lawn, 4 bd, 5 full & 3 half ba… $12,750,000

$4,500,000 - $5,000,000

New constr. Med. Villa, Mt Tam vws, ±.58 acre lot, ±3,465 sf, grand foyer, elegant details, 4 en suite bd + ofc/fam rm, 5 ba…$2,250,000

space, 4 bd, 3.5 ba…

Secluded, gated, private, contemp, 1.7 acres plus open

$4,495,000

±7900 sf, gated, private, 1 ac, remodel, lvl lawn, SF & GGB vws, 5 ensuite bd, $10,299,000 7.5 ba + 1 bd, 1 ba aupair…

For Lease. World-class contemporary with riveting views of entire San Francisco Bay area, 4 bd, 5.5 ba… $25,000/mo

Exquisite waterfront living, ±3,113 sf, boat dock & spacious decks, GG Bridge & $4,488,000 Mt Tam views, 4 bd, 4 ba…

Riveting San Francisco and Bay views, stunning kitchen/family room, 5 en $7,995,000 suite bd, 5.5 ba…

For more information, visit globalestates.com

LYDIA SARKISSIAN For Lease. ±7900 sf, gated, private, 1 ac, remodel, lvl lawn, SF & GGB vws, 5 ensuite bd, 7.5 ba + 1 bd, 1 ba aupair… $20,000/mo

(415) 258-8381

BILL BULLOCK (415) 258-2400

The residence of Cecilia Chiang, co-author of the bestselling book The Seventh Daughter: My Culinary Journey from Beijing to San Francisco. Two-story waterfront with boat dock, large decks and stunning views of the bay from Mt. Tam through the Golden Gate Bridge to San Francisco. Living room with fireplace, dining room, kitchen with adjacent family room and two bedrooms and bath on the main level, plus a separate, glass-walled sun room perfect for an office or meditation room. Three additional bedrooms and baths on the upper level, including the master suite with view-side balcony overlooking the San Francisco bay. Attached two-car garage. A total

$4,488,000

of five bedrooms and four baths…

For more information, visit globalestates.com

LYDIA SARKISSIAN (415) 258-8381

BILL BULLOCK (415) 258-2400

Heidi Ellyn & Pat Skipper - Featured Listings -

911 Centro Way, Mill Valley Sun-filled views with level lawn 3 bedroom/3 bath home with bonus office

133 Ward St., Larkspur Vintage Victorian built in 1897 just steps from Downtown Larkspur. 5 bedrooms/3 baths with new gourmet kitchen.

911Centro.IsNowOffered.com $1,049,000

133wardst.IsNowOffered.com $1,795,000

6 Drakes Cove, Larkspur Luxury home, panoramic water views, amazing interior 3 bedrooms/3.5 baths

54 Walnut, Larkspur Inspiring vistas, Lush level lawns & gardens 4 bedrooms/3 baths in downtown Larkspur

$2,100,000

54walnut.IsNowOffered.com $1,495,000

Top-Producing Team - We Sell Marin! Call us for more details about these fine properties. Also, be sure to inquire about our professional staging program.

Heidi Ellyn, Esq. Top Producer 2004, 2005 & 2007 (415) 786-6807 • heidiellyn@comcast.net

Pat Skipper (415) 823-3099 • pskipper@comcast.net patskipper.com

THE FRIENDLIEST AGENTS IN TOWN!

Mill Valley

$6,000,000

Tiburon

$3,250,000

$2,795,000

5BD/8BA dream home, approx. 6350 sf, built with highest quality construction & materials. Surrounded by open space. Dan Godfrey (415) 847-5015

A rare opportunity to own in one of the most coveted locations in Tiburon. Magnificent views of San Francisco. Lyndasue Johnson (415) 515-7010

Breathtaking Views of the GG Bridge, Angel Island & the Bay. Lyndasue Johnson (415) 515-7010

Sausalito

Larkspur

Mill Valley

$2,499,000

First Phase Starting at: $1,950,000

$1,395,000

Dramatic architecture, fabulous lot, stunning views, desirable location! Minutes to San Francisco! Deborah Solvason (415) 519-3555

23 Brand New Luxury Estates with high-end finishes. Entertaining will be easy in these designer homes with views! Melissa Bradley (415) 531-3567

Magical one-acre street to street property in Blithedale Canyon. Park-like setting --redwoods, stream, and terraced garden. Carol Adler (415) 987-1969

San Anselmo

Nicasio

Mill Valley

$1,265,000

$1,195,000

New in 2000, elegant, spacious 4BD/4BA with Panoramic Views. Easy access to downtown San Anselmo and Fairfax. Spirit Wiseman (415) 455-1126

3BD/2BA Craftsman style home nestled on approx. 4+ acres. Separate parcel w/ studio & detached stone fireplace along the creek. Sandra Fitting (415) 302-2605

4BD/3BA beautiful bay view home w/ in-law set up. Approx. 13,875 sq. ft. lot. Remodeled with high end amenities.

San Rafael

Mill Valley

Novato

$1,139,000

Nestled on an acre of land at the top of Fairhills, this home offers a welcome retreat. Privacy, views of green & water, and so much more. Deniz Ince (415) 250-1660

$950,000

Coveted Tamalpais Park. Main house: 2BD/1BA w/attic area, bedroom and storage. Spacious backyard w/legal Studio. Carol Adler (415) 987-1969

Lou Broderick

(415) 297-3575

$684,000

Exceptional price for this extravagant, elegantly appointed, completely remodeled home. Desirable Pleasant Valley Location.

CJ Spielman

(415) 378-7955

See thousands of listings in Marin County and beyond: www.BradleyRealEstate.com

PREVIEWS C OL D W E L L B A N K E R P R E V I E W S I N T E R N AT IO N A L

TIBURON Build your dream estate

TIBURON Relax in paradise

Experience the peaceful and calm serenity of this prime Tiburon location. Build your luxury dream home on this approximately 1.75-acre lot featuring captivating views of the Bay. The land work has been completed and is ready for your dreams and vision. Develop up to an approximately 8,000 square foot estate plus an additional approximately 750 square foot garage. Dividing your estate across multiple structures may be permissible. Don’t miss this one. Offered at $1,998,000

Located on a tree-lined street this sunny gated estate is just minutes to the Ross School and Ross Commons. The property has been extensively renovated and encompasses four bedrooms, three bathrooms and a gourmet kitchen within the main house. In addition to the main house, you can enjoy a one bedroom, one bathroom guest cottage or cabana. A sparkling pool with tumbled stone terrace and gardens create a perfect blend of indoor and outdoor spaces ideal for entertaining or just relaxing. Offered at $2,895,000

Amy Glaser 415.816.4537 Amy.Glaser@cbnorcal.com

Betsy Young 415.823.6472 Betsy.Young@cbnorcal.com

©2008 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker®, Previews® and Previews International® are registered trademarks licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned and Operated by NRT LLC.

President, Marin Women’s Council of REALTORS®

Celebrate the Holidays at the Beach

Judy LeMarr FRANK HOWARD ALLEN REALTORS 415-793-5030 Judy@MarinDreamHome.com www.MarinDreamHome.com • Large Master with Walk-in Closet • Two Remodeled Bathrooms • Bedroom with Luxurious Window Seat • Chef’s Kitchen with Wolfe Range • Outdoor Shower and Hot Tub www.136BuenaVistaAvenue.com

Experience

Service

Results

Offered at $1,500,000 152

MARIN DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

Just Completed Gated Estate on Belvedere’s Gold Coast This 6 bedroom, 10 bath Residence, by designer/builder Mitch Wiener, is 11,200+/- sq. ft. PLUS 5,000 sq. ft. (approx) of stone terraces overlooking Bridge-to-Bridge San Francisco skyline views. In the tradition of a small European hotel, this home boasts its own health club/ spa including: Indoor 60 ft, 2 lane lap pool, commercial steam room, sauna, weight lifting area, spa, 2 baths with shower, and full kitchen/ bar with barbecue for indoor-outdoor entertaining. Relax on your lawn while listening to the waves lap against the shore. Enjoy the chef’s kitchen, family room, breakfast room, living room, and dining room which all open to a huge expanse of sunny terraces overlooking the shimmering bay. Spacious game room/home theatre off the family room opens to a sunny patio and tropiccal garden. Wine cellar ideally located off the living room. Master bedroom suite with onyx bath opens to a private balcony for morning coffee. Sweeping driveway with parking galore and 3-car garage. Also, Separate Guest Suites and living area with private entrance. All this and more in Belvedere’s premier location. For more information, visit www.bestaddressbelvedere.com Offered at $23,500,000

ISOBEL WIENER 415.730.5556 www.isobelwiener.com

SOTHEBYSHOMES.COM SAN FRANCISCO BROKERAGE l 117 GREENWICH STREET, SAN FRANCISCO CA 94111 T 415.901.1700 F 415.901.1701 PATRICK V. BARBER, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & MANAGING BROKER Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. is Owned and Operated by NRT Incorporated. Les Bords de l’Epte a Giverny, used with permission.

D I A LO G UE

You could live anywhere. Why Marin? For many years, I lived in San Francisco. I went to work, it was foggy; I came home it was foggy. In Marin we are so lucky to have beautiful weather. What makes you happy in Marin? I like the casual lifestyle and people; my neighbors are very nice, (are) not too nosy, don’t ask personal questions and always have a friendly smile. Most of all, I like the safe feeling here; this is something money cannot buy. What’s your personal idea of luxury? People ask me if, at 89, I have a special Chinese secret herb (accounting) for my health, happiness and energy. I have my ancestors to thank for that: my parents both lived well into their 90s. They died of starvation during the Cultural Revolution. Here in America we are so lucky. When I hear people complain in this country, I think to myself, “Oh, God should punish you.” Is there is something you value every day? Every morning I wake up

CECILIA CHIANG BY MIMI TOWLE | At 89, Cecilia Chiang, famed restaurateur and

longtime Marin resident, radiates. Known best as the elegant proprietress of the Mandarin, her landmark San Francisco restaurant, Madame Chiang is ready for change. She recently purchased her ﬁrst pair of blue jeans, and on a larger scale, she is selling her home of 40 years on West Shore Road in Belvedere. Bay Area foodies might want to pool their resources to pur-

(and) say, “thank God.” What person has influenced you the most? My mother was quite strong and taught us a lot. She taught us to always to be nice to others first. She was also a really good cook and really loved good food. The most fulfilling moment of your work? Every moment: I am a person who really enjoys working. Even after retiring, I can’t help myself; it is my nature. I think taking care of this big house has kept me healthy. This might be my Chinese secret. To me it is really a pleasure to have something to work on.

chase and enshrine this ﬁve-bedroom waterfront home. Here is where Chiang, besides raising her own two children and extend-

Favorite Marin view? The sunset from right here (West Shore Road).

ed family (including 26 relatives from China), has trained chefs

It is really fantastic—just like a fire at night—and then the August moon,

for her various restaurant ventures and entertained a who’s

when it is a double moon (one in the sky, one reflected in the bay).

who of Bay Area chefs, including dear friend Alice Waters, for whom she recently threw a milestone birthday party attend-

What do you like about yourself? I like myself; everyone should like

ed by 50 guests. Last year, Chiang coauthored (with Tiburon’s

his/herself. I feel proud of myself for all that I have done, but if I had

named for her birth order. For the past six years she’s also been a passionate advocate for the bilingual Chinese American International School in San Francisco.

stayed in China, it would not have been possible. Here in America I had the opportunity to be successful with my restaurants and (was) able to support my family and others. How do you want to be remembered? When I had my business I

What’s her favorite local Chinese restaurant? Without hesi-

had to remember names and my customers’ special needs. One man

tation, she recommends P. F. Chang’s in Corte Madera’s Town

always ordered a Rob Roy and when another came in I made sure

Center. “The price is affordable, nice atmosphere, good service,

there was no garlic in any of his food. My memory is a special gift and

and the food is simple and tastes very good.” She smiles. “And I

I have been very lucky. But most of all I want to be remembered as

like to support the family.” Her son Philip Chiang is cofounder.

someone who liked people.

154

MARIN DECEMBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTO: BARBA RA RIES

Lisa Weiss) Seventh Daughter, a cookbook and memoir aptly

Luxury Estates and Properties

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