MARI N E X T R A O R D I N A R Y
JANUARY 2007
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CONTENTS
Features 64 life
74
The Big Day
Five couples, five unique weddings. story samantha berry
74 home
At Home on the Range
Three local chefs with different culinary tastes. story p. j. bremier photos barbara ries
82 journey
Thailand on Two Wheels
Mountain biking in the Golden Triangle. story & photos ben davidson
MARIN
JANUARY 2007
7
50
CONTENTS
52
38
Departments 18
letters
22
at a glance
24
marin album
26
snap
32
fashion trends
36
life style
38
fyi
Readers respond to Marin Magazine.
Hot tips day by day for the Bay Area.
Wedding photo op at the bridge. by tim porter
Out and about, in and around Marin.
Circle of love—rings for the happy couple. by somer flaherty
Melinda Inn shares wedding dress challenges.
Food: Wedding cake creativity. by somer flaherty Weddings: Photos, drinks and cigars. by somer flaherty Encore Weddings: Second, third or fifth time around. by heather o’neill Books: Quincy, by J.otto Seibold. by olivia boler Fitness: Indoor and outdoor endorphins. by mimi towle
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conversation A visit with Lucy Mercer. by jim wood
©
PA D U L O 2 0 0 7
PHOTOGRAPHY SKREBNESKI
56
CONTENTS
121
Departments 56
looking back
60
play
90
go
98
flavor
104
calendar
107
galleries
121 130
A century of railroading. by jim wood
Belly dancing to stay fit. by samantha bronson
Full menu on Maui. by mimi towle & robert kaufman
Sushi Ran—Sausalito favorite. by erika lenkert
A roundup of performing arts, events, galleries and more.
January highlights. by anne crump ray
microclimate Incredible Inverness. by jim wood
dialogue Book Passage’s Elaine Petrocelli tells her story. by mimi towle
Columns The Cover Marin photographer, Kristin Gerbert
16
view from mount tam The creators of Marin Magazine welcome you to share their vision.
shot this photo on location at Cronkite Beach. Her work can be seen at kg-photography.com. 10
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JANUARY 2007
20
pov Does “just say no” work for Marin? by jim wood
Editorial editorial director Nikki Wood ext 105 nwood@marinmagazine.com
executive editor Jim Wood ext 106 jwood@marinmagazine.com
associate editor Mimi Towle ext 101 mtowle@marinmagazine.com
editor-at-large Tim Porter tporter@marinmagazine.com
departments editor Somer Flaherty ext 103 sflaherty@marinmagazine.com
copy editor/proofreader Cynthia Rubin
editorial contributors Samantha Berry, Olivia Boler, P.J. Bremier, Samantha Bronson, Ben Davidson, Lucas Davidson, Erika Lenkert, Heather O’Neill, Anne Crump Ray
Art art director Trpti Todd ext 112 ttodd@marinmagazine.com
production manager Alex French ext 111 production@marinmagazine.com
contributing photographers Drew Altizer, Ben Davidson, Sasha Gulish, Sheri Montgomery, Barbara Ries Marin Magazine One Harbor Dr, Ste 208 Sausalito, CA 94965 phone: 415.332.4800 fax: 415.332.3048 email: editorial@marinmagazine.com web address: marinmagazine.com
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MARIN
JANUARY 2007
publisher Lisa Shanower 415.332.4800 ext 107 lshanower@marinmagazine.com
Advertising advertising director Courtney Q. Roberts 415.332.4800 ext 108 croberts@marinmagazine.com
account manager Michele Johnson 415.332.4800 ext 110 mjohnson@marinmagazine.com
account manager Genevieve Luckel 415.332.4800 ext 109 gluckel@marinmagazine.com
regional sales offices california media marin associates Lora Dinga 415.898.6400
robert kaufman associates
Thank goo d n es s f o r
Wailea Beach Villas ESCAPE TO THE RESORT THAT INVITES YOU TO INDULGE Is it a beachfront massage with warm cocoa butter coated stones, a personal chef creating a culinary masterpiece in your in-suite gourmet kitchen, a sweet tropical drink at your very own plunge pool, or a beach attendant offering you a cool face cloth…we invite to experience Wailea Beach Villas in beautiful Maui.
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hawaii destination marketing Debbie Joseph Shana Wong 808.739.2200
advertising art director Alex French ext 111 production@marinmagazine.com
Administration controller Jill Harmston ext 104 jharmston@marinmagazine.com Volume 3, Issue 1. Marin Magazine is published in Marin County by Marin Magazine LLC. All rights reserved. Copyright©2007. Reproduction of Marin Magazine content is prohibited without the expressed, written consent of Marin Magazine LLC. Unsolicited materials cannot be returned. Marin Magazine reserves the right to refuse to publish any advertisement deemed detrimental to the best interests of the community or that is in questionable taste. Marin Magazine is mailed monthly to homes and businesses in Marin County. Subscription rates are $36 per year. Marin Magazine, One Harbor Drive, Sausalito, CA 94965. Phone 415.332.4800, fax 415.332.3048, email editorial@marinmagazine.com, website marinmagazine.com.
A distinctive experience provided by Destination Hotels & Resorts. member of the bpa worldwide:
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MARIN
JANUARY 2007
Go from buckling your seatbelt to buckling your ski boots in about 2 hours. Northern Californians can fly Horizon Air daily on non-stop flights from Oakland International to Sun Valley. Get your tickets for the winter flights by calling 1.800.547.9308 or at www.horizonair.com. Don't forget about our Lift Ticket Exchange program which lets you exchange a day on the slopes for some of Sun Valley's other great activities.
For Resort Reservations and Information call 1.800.786.8259 www.sunvalley.com
V I E W F R O M M O U N T TA M
on the year just
gone and anticipation of the one just begun. We enter
This month’s H ome story takes you inside the
has been to Marin Magazine. This issue marks the offi-
home kitchens of well-known Marin chefs F arina Wong
cial beginning of Volume 3 , our third year of publishing.
Kingsley, Roxanne Klein and Scott H oward. Don’t miss
Since Volume 1 , N umber 1 , in April 2 0 0 5 , time has sped
the opportunity to meet these chefs at the Kitchen Matrix
by. Our thanks to all of you—readers and advertisers—
showroom in the San F rancisco Design Center during the
who have made it possible.
Winter Mart on J anuary 2 5 th. Grab your favorite interior
soon to plan for a J une wedding. That’s why we’re de-
designer and join us there. Meet Lucy Mercer, the Mill Valley visionary
voting a large percentage of this issue to the details of
who brought 1 42
wedding planning. In F Y I Weddings, contributor H eather
Conversation, and learn about her process for creat-
O’N eill tells us about encore weddings (the second—or
ing community. In Dialogue, E laine Petrocelli of Book
third, fourth or fifth—time around). In “The Big Day,”
Passage shares her enthusiasm for her legendary store.
writer Samantha Berry highlights five local dream wed-
In Microclimate, we explore the historical and charming
dings. And inserted in the magaz ine this month is our
West Marin town of Inverness.
Second Annual Wedding Resource Guide, which can also be viewed at marinmagaz ine.com. If the wedding planning proves to be too stressful (or
MARIN
colorful pastime.
2 0 0 7 deeply grateful for how welcoming the community
Speaking of time on the move, J anuary is not too
16
energy Middle E astern belly dancing is more than just a
Throckmorton Theatre to life in
As always, our wish is for your good reading. E njoy Marin Magazine, as we continue to celebrate this extraordinary place!
the reception overly caloric), we have a couple of ways
Lisa Shanower, Publisher
to chill out or burn it off. F Y I F itness is all about indoor
Nikki Wood, Editorial Director
endorphins, and our Play department explains why high-
Jim Wood, Executive Editor
JANUARY 2007
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
PHOTO: BARBARA RIES
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Readers respond On behalf of Senior Access, we appreciated Jim
James Demmert, Managing Partner, Marin County resident
Wood’s well-written editorial entitled “Marin Benefits from the MCF” in the December 2006 issue of Marin Magazine. For the record, I would like to clarify the services that Senior Access provides. Senior Access is the only 501(c) (3) nonprofit licensed Adult Day Health Care Program in Marin County. Our mission is to help Marin’s older and disabled adults remain independent and part of the community for as long as possible. Our purpose is to prevent institutionalization, nursing home placement and in-home isolation for frail adults with chronic health conditions, physical disabilities and Alzheimer’s disease and provide essential respite and support for caregivers. Adult day health care is a compassionate alternative to institutionalization or in-home isolation for frail elders and adults with chronic health conditions and physical disabilities. Senior Access is a Medi-Cal program and
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provides adult day health care services for residents of Marin County on a sliding scale based on their ability to pay. –Sincerely, Cris Chater, MA, MNA Executive Director, Senior Access
The article “Give the Gift of Hope This Season” sparked a new holiday tradition in my family. We’ve picked one of your featured charities to support this Christmas and we’ll continue to pick a new charity each year. It’s true, sometimes philanthropy can be the best
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–Thank you, Laura Frank 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 email to jwood@marinmagazine.com.
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JANUARY 2007
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P OV
Marin and Nancy Reagan just saying ‘no,’” he says. “That worked in the
a book in Corte Madera; seeing a doctor in
’60s and ’70s, but it isn’t working now.”
Larkspur—the trips inevitably mount up.
Bennett, a resident of Inverness, says
“Many in Marin are stuck in ’60s and ’70s
SMART’s loss involved more than rejection of
thinking,” he says, “and hopefully they’ll come
a commuter rail system. “The concept of ‘smart
to understand and trust infill, high density, and
growth’ was defeated,” he says. He believes
mixed use development, along with senior and
Marin must have some growth because “you
affordable housing projects, as a way of actu-
can’t repeatedly deny property owners their
ally reducing our ecological footprint.”
constitutional rights.” But such development,
Marin’s ecological footprint—the number
says Bennett, should be concentrated near trans-
of acres of the earth’s available land and water
portation systems. “I’m talking about areas close
needed to sustain one individual for one year—
to effective bus lines, near ferry terminals, and,
is already oversize (recent estimates put it over
yes, where SMART could have transported peo-
27 global acres, compared to Italy’s 12 acres).
T
ple without them getting into their cars.”
“Of the Bay Area’s 11 counties, Marin is second-
he no-growth attitude of many Marin residents toward development and the
Both Bennett and McGlashan believe
smallest in population,” McGlashan says, “but
environment is stuck in the sixties;
that in many ways, Marin voter’s verdict in-
we have the area’s third-largest footprint—be-
say two of the county’s most prominent envi-
dicates they love their autos more than their
hind only Solano and Contra Costa counties.”
ronmentalists. Both maintain that this Nancy
environment. Bennett’s solution for neces-
He’s convinced Marin must find a compromise
Reagan–like “Just say no!” attitude is enlarg-
sary development is easy to explain, but pos-
between rampant development and no growth
ing—not reducing—the county’s already over-
sibly challenging to enact. “Property owners
at all. “Finding a middle ground is now essen-
size ecological footprint.
on ridgelines and remote hillsides should be
tial,” he says, “or Marin will continue to be irre-
To Supervisor Charles McGlashan,
allowed to sell their ‘development rights’ to
sponsible in the face of global climate change.”
November’s narrow defeat of the Sonoma
those wanting to build on sites nearer estab-
An example of such a compromise would be
Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) proposal by
lished transportation routes,” he says. “That
workforce housing which eliminates the need
Marin voters is the latest manifestation of this
way we could have growth—which is neces-
for long commutes.
decades-old posture. “It is a tone of negativ-
sary for economic vitality and environmental
Bennett agrees. “It may sound contradic-
ity that has its origins in the success of hav-
sustainability—without impacting Marin’s al-
tory, but we increase our ecological footprint
ing dodged the very dangerous bullet of bad
ready clogged and outdated surface streets.”
by insisting on larger homes and lower den-
development ideas in the ’60s and ’70s,” says
McGlashan hopes Marin community lead-
sity,” he says. “Sustaining Marin’s quality of life
McGlashan. “What that long-ago success has
ers will modernize their approach to develop-
now depends on approving high-density hous-
done, however, is lock in a small but powerful
ment. “The old thinking believes that it’s less
ing, having it close to efficient transportation,
portion of the Marin environmental movement
intensive to have a couple of big homes with
and reducing our dependency on the car.”
into repeatedly saying no to progressive solu-
a few cars than 10 units of affordable hous-
Hopefully that message will soon get
tions for the problems of today.”
ing,” he says. “But that’s wrong.” He cites a
across, and Marin will stop merely saying no
Sierra Club President Gordon Bennett, speak-
recent study of large homes built above Mill
to common sense solutions for today’s devel-
ing for himself and not Marin’s 7,000 Sierra
Valley that found residents there each making
opment and environmental problems. That’s
Club members, was more succinct but equally
as many as 11 car trips a day. “Going to work;
my point of view. What’s yours?
emphatic. “Marin has to be more creative than
taking kids to school; buying groceries; getting
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MARIN
JANUARY 2007
Email jwood@marinmagazine.com
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
PHOTO: BARBARA RIES
Does “Just say no!” work for Marin? BY JIM WOOD
If Y O U H A D T H R E E W I S H E S, what would the other two be?
a c l a s s i c r e b o r n www.royallahainavillas.com 808-270-9777 Ka‘anapali, Maui
AT A G LAN C E
JANUARY THRU JANUARY
JANUARY 1
The Blue Paint Murder
Whale of a Time More than
New Year’s Day
Find out who dunnit. Uncover the facts and help solve the mystery: is it the angry art collector or the devious dealer? 11101 Hwy One, Point Reyes Station. 415.663.1347, galleryrouteone.org
26,000 gray whales make their annual migration. The best viewing spot is from Point Reyes National Seashore. The Lighthouse Visitor Center (Point Reyes Station). 415.464.5100, nps.gov/pore
Make a resolution to fulfill in the upcoming year!
JANUARY 11
JANUARY 13
JANUARY 15
Pins of Marin Don’t miss this
International Rubik’s Cube Competition Watch the
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Join in the rally celebra-
world’s greatest solvers of the Rubik’s Cube compete. Past competitions have created world records. Exploratorium (SF). 415.561.0360, exploratorium.edu
tion and teach-in to honor the life and achievements of the civil rights leader. Bill Graham Civic Auditorium (SF). 510.268.3777, norcalmlk.org
▼
THRU JANUARY 7
▼
art reception and kickoff to the Bowl for Kids’ Sake event, which benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters of Marin and Napa Counties. Rafter’s Grille and Brewery (San Rafael). 415.453.3800, ext. 229
JANUARY 21
JAN 23–FEB 24
One Book One Marin Launch Party Marin County
Marin Bridal and Party Showcase Meet and ask
pubic libraries and local groups are promoting the reading of Isabel Allende’s Daughter of Fortune. Book Passage (Corte Madera). 510.839.3100, onebookonemarin.org
questions of wedding professionals all under one roof and see the latest trends in nuptial fashions. Embassy Suites (San Rafael). 415.897.9939, creative-occasions.com
Legally Blonde Sorority star Elle Woods puts down the credit card, hits the books and sets out for Harvard Law. Along the way, Elle proves that being true to yourself never goes out of style. Golden Gate Theatre (SF). 415.512.7770, shnsf.com ▼
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JANUARY 17
JANUARY 24
JANUARY 27
Opening Night The San
Bay Area Environmental Education Fair Hikers,
▼
bikers, teachers and environmentalists will find something to pique their interest at this annual event. Marin Center Exhibit Hall (San Rafael). 415.499.6400, baeerfair.org
JANUARY 28
The Marin Symphony
Just Dance The Zooz Dance
Enjoy works by Latvian composer Peteris Vasks as well as Orion Weiss. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marinsymphony.org
Company combines Middle Eastern and North African dance with contemporary dance theater. Bay Area Discovery Museum (Sausalito). 415.339.3900, baykidsmuseum.org
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JANUARY 28 & 30
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MARIN JANUARY 2007
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EVE NT S IN MA R IN & B EYO N D
Francisco Ballet opening night gala includes cocktails and dinner in City Hall followed by a performance. This year’s theme is “Spanish Splendor.” City Hall (SF). 415.553.4658, sfballet.org
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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M A R I N ALBUM
The Golden Gate Bride “And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make.” — THE BEATLES
BY TIM PORTER
A WEDDING IS A BEGINNING. Amid solemnity and pomp, family and friends, a couple sets forth (with some luck and patience) on a lifelong journey. For the bride, though, the wedding also culminates a trek of planning and preparation in which the groom is happily (and often purposely) uninvolved. Decisions about food, flowers and attire must be made —and even in these times of gender parity, it is the bride and (and her supporting cast) who typically takes command of them. The most important choice is The Dress. While men are generally content to enter wedlock in the same formal garb they wore to their senior prom, women quest for a dress that embodies their unique vision of the wedding day. Finding The Dress can be a trying, yet rewarding journey of its own, so once found the Golden Gate Bridge has a good chance of seeing a beautiful bride baring her shoulders in the afternoon breeze. The bouquet, the tiara, the cast-off shoes, even the stalwart towers of the bridge, all are accessories. Center stage is The Dress, holding in its satiny whiteness the promise of much love to be taken.
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MARIN
JANUARY 2007
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
PHOTO: TIM PORTER
gown must be celebrated and commemorated. This is why a visitor to the Marin side of the
I believe that knowledge is as vast as the ocean. I believe in thinking for myself. I believe in the power of knowing.
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Celebrations Betsy and Eber Jaques
Nan McEvoy, Nion McEvoy
The Olive Harvest Recently, nearly 600 visitors attended Nan Tucker McEvoy’s annual harvest party. The bash featured music, wine and a sit-down lunch of locally produced food. A highlight for party-goers was seeing McEvoy’s frantoio (olive mill) in action. It’s the only one of its kind in the country. McEvoy ranch is the Susie Tompkins Buell and Mark Buell
largest private-estate bottler of olive oil in America.
Francesca Victor, Emily Morse, Pamela Westfall Bochte, Dorka Keehn
Gary Giacomini
Rally to Support
Phase Six
Marci Bracco, Cameron Davi
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MARIN JANUARY 2007
Eileen Grady, Susan Zelinsky
Roger Mills, Carole Forest Bernardus Marinus Pon
The 15th annual tennis fundraiser, Rally to Celebrate Life, began with round-robin tennis for 108 players. “Using the milestone as a theme, the day felt like a spectacular birthday party, with over 250 tempting silent auction items and a goody bag, all to support To Celebrate Life Breast Cancer Foundation,” says Phyllis Evans.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
OLIVE HARVEST: SHERI MONTOGOMERY
Monterra-Tehama properties in Carmel Valley celebrated the opening of its latest (sixth) phase of Monterra with its usual over-thetop flare. Marci Bracco, communications director for the property planned an around-the-world fête hosted by developer Roger Mills.
Leah and Jerry Garchik
SNAP
Applauding Art ArtRageous Event Phyllis Thelen, Mary Edwards
American Nostalgia
Oliver Caldwell, Susan Snyder, Wilkes Bashford
TR Colletta, Karen Caldwell, Betsy Linder Hollie Mayberry, Kent Higginbotham
Roger Azevedo
Sheila Ash
A Devilish Evening A Hair-raising Benefit R e c e n t l y, t h e M o u n t a i n P l a y
Lauren Travers, Mo DeLong, Ally Stoops
Association held a hair-raising benefit—Peace, Love & Broadway—at 142 Throckmorton Theatre to raise money for the company’s production Kathy Serverson, Kathy King
of HAIR. The evening’s highlights included Mistress of Ceremonies, Jan Wahl who joined in for the finale of “Let The Sunshine In” and the auction, led by Richard Habib,
The past Halloween weekend saw a dazzling convergence of several hundred local angels and demons at the first annual Mill Valley Masquerade. The event raised over $1000 dollars for California Poets In The Schools a non profit organization that provides for poetry in California public schools.
which brought in 28
Beth Spotswood, M A R I N J A N U A R Y 2 0 0 7Dick and Joanne Spotswood
over $20,000. MARINMAGAZINE.COM
CA LDWELL P H OTOS: S HERI M ONTG OME RY / A RTRAG EOUS PH OTOS C OURTESY OF P ETR I N A WI E LGOS
Sam Gingold, Petrina Wielgos
San Rafael’s Art Works Downtown held its second annual ArtRageous benefit, which raised $20,000 for various art programs, included music by singer Kim Nalley and her band, food by Jay Yinger and a lively auction led by John Racanelli of Racanelli Partners.
At the recent opening reception of TR Colletta’s wo r k a t t h e C a l d we l l Snyder gallery, art aficionado’s sipped wine from Lapis Luna and GV Cellars while perusing the visually stunning designs of American culture.
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67
SNAP
Out on the Town It’s a Wrap
Holly Nichols, Alasdair Neale, Anne Douglas Cynthia Saunders, Lou Bartolini, Reggie Casadei, Tyler Mack
Richard Worn, Noralee Monestere
Marin Symphony concert-goers were ready to mingle with exciting new events such as, a pre-concert Singles Party and a Tuesday night Wrap Party at the Four Points by Sheraton.
Sarah Farrell, Jeri Fritzie, Chris Patton
Randy Wilkinson, Colin Berta
Over 250 attendees enjoyed a night of food and libations at San Rafael’s Sunrise Home for the Annual Evening of Fun event. Owner Annie Bowman and her talented design staff had the store beautifully decorated while Ross Geri Lovette, Orrie Merck, Chris Nelson resident Janell Ciatti assembled local women artists to present their work to the holiday shoppers. Deborah Santana was also on hand to sign copies of her new book, Space between the Stars, My Deborah Santana, Journey to an Open Annie Bowman Lynne Brady, Bobbi Buich, Barb Russell Heart.
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MARIN JANUARY 2007
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
M ARIN SYM PHONY: JOSEPH CRAWFORD, TERI MCDONALD
Fun at Sunrise Home
Krystal Allen, Janell Ciatti
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“It has been a privilege to mentor my colleague, Dr. James Birrell, in the art of cosmetic dentistry.” — Dr. Bill Dorfman, ABC Extreme Makeover Dentist
1321 South Eliseo Drive, Greenbrae, CA 94904
FA S H I ON TRENDS 2
1
The Rules of Engagement 3 To find the ring she’ll love, be sure to do your homework. Ask her friends and family for help, pay attention to the jewelry she’s already wearing and take a look at these top choices for inspiration. 1. Fourth Finger Stunner This Art Deco engagement ring in platinum features a Europeancut diamond flanked by baguette and roundcut dazzlers. $13,750 at Lang Antiques (SF). 415.982.2213, langantiques.com 2. Bling, Bling For a ring that has it all—cut, color, clarity and carat—look to the Distinction Ring from the Perfection in Platinum Collection, showcasing the Dream Diamond by Hearts on Fire. Price available upon request at Johann Paul Jewelers (Greenbrae). 415.461.1866, johannpauljewelers.com
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3. Timeless Tradition Imagine her opening that little blue box and seeing this diamond-encrusted Legacy Collection ring inspired by period jewels. $3,960 at Tiffany & Co. (SF). 415.781.7000, tiffany.com 4. Captivating Design For the bride with an eye for modern aesthetics, choose the Intrigue engagement ring. Shown in 18k white gold with princess-cut diamond and channel diamonds. Price available upon request at John Atencio (SF). 415.674.7750, johnatencio.com 5. Passion for the Gem You don’t have to be born in July to wear this custom-made Burmese ruby engagement ring. Set in platinum and 18k yellow gold, it’s a stunner. $9,800 at Arth & Co. (SF). 415.986.3660, lauraarth.com
6 6. Propose With the Heart This diamond heartcut engagement ring in platinum is sure to make her say yes. Price available upon request at Cartier (SF). 415.397.3180, cartier.com
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#3, PHOTO CREDIT: STEPHEN LEWIS, #6, PHOTO CREDIT: KATEL RIOU
4
All Seasons C A T E R I N G
C O M P A N Y
PHOTOS BY: ANNA KUPERBERG, WWW.ANNAKUPERBERG.COM
A
415.383.9355 • www.allseasonscatering.com • Mill Valley
FA S H I ON TRENDS
2 1
Circle of Love 3
4
The one-style-fits-all wedding ring is a thing of the past, these days it’s all about options. The traditional solid yellow gold band has been replaced with endless choices, including intricate designs, matte or shiny finishes and a variety of metal possibilities. Whichever ring is chosen, make sure it reflects the groom or bride’s individual style, because it’s going to be worn for a very long time. 1. Goes Both Ways This brushed platinum folded leaf wedding band can be made thicker for a man or kept thin for a woman; it’s your choice. $2,250–$3,000 at Lorinczi Jewelry (SF). 415.566.7394, lorinczi.com 2. The Gorgeous Gardener She doesn’t have to be a horticulturist to fall in love with this White Rose wide platinum wedding band. The openwork of roses, leaves and vines—all set with diamonds—is sure to please. $10,000 at Stephan Hill Jewelers (San Rafael). 415.459.5808, stephanhill.com
4. Color Conscious The metal choices are endless when choosing the Lucida men’s wedding band. Is he in the mood for platinum, 18k yellow gold or both? $600–$1,700 at Tiffany & Co. (SF). 415.781.7000, tiffany.com
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5. All Locked Up The aptly named Love collection from Cartier includes this 18k white gold men’s wedding band with screw design. $1,625 at Cartier (SF). 415.397.3180, cartier.com by somer flaherty
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PHOTO CREDIT: #4, RICHARD PIERCE
3. International Flair The global man will appreciate the labor-intensive hand-carved leaves on this 18k gold band; they were influenced by Italian museum pieces but crafted locally. $2,000 at Van Craeynest (SF). 415.362.1025, vancraeynest.com
COVER CONTEST Marin Magazine’s 1st Annual Cover Contest
O F L L CA
PHOTOGRAPHY
S E I R T N E R
PAINTING
I LLU STR ATION
EXPOSURE : MAY 2007 GET COVERED Cover Contest provides artists with an opportunity to gain exposure for their work. MARIN MAGAZINE will feature the first place winner’s art on the cover of the May issue, followed by the second and third place winners. MARIN ART SALON will feature the winner’s art at the opening of the Marin Art Salon on May 9, 2007.
Contest Eligibility and Rules are available at www.marinmagazine.com/getcovered All entries must be received by March 1, 2007.
FA S H I O N
life style Name Melinda Inn Home Glen Ellen Occupation Personal Consultant What are you wearing? A simple ivory, floor-length organza dress by Ross designer Lea Ditson. I am holding flowers by Michael Labrie of Sonoma. I wanted my dress to be simple and elegant and my flowers to look natural and flowing like I had picked them out of my garden. How did long did it take you to get ready? The hairdresser took an hour, my makeup about 30 minutes and the dress took about three minutes to put on. What was your favorite aspect of your dress? The movement of it…the way it flowed when I walked; it was light and lovely. It was over 90 degrees on our wedding day, one of the hottest days on record for June, and I felt extremely comfortable in my dress. How long did take you to find the perfect dress? First of all, I wanted something very simple, and didn’t think it was going to be so difficult to find. All the dresses I tried on seemed so overstated. After a couple months of futile searching, a friend from Kenwood told me about Lea Designs. Once I explained my ideal dress to Lea, she found the fabric and started the process right away.
Did you help him pick it out? Absolutely not; he has exceptional taste. How was working with the designer? She was so easy to work with. I told her I wanted it to be simple yet ethereal and flowy…somehow she pulled it off. I also got my rehearsal dinner outfit from her as well; it was a two-piece top and skirt. My husband is Chinese, and the ceremony reflected both of
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MARIN JANUARY 2007
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
P H OTO: AD ELINE AND G RAC E WED D ING S
What did the groom wear? He wore an Armani jacket and slacks, and a cream shirt with a matching cream tie.
It ’s a special day. Lo o k am azing!
our heritages, hence the fabric had a beautiful Chinese symbol for prosperity, or maybe it was for health. Who influenced your design? I have to admit that I was watching the Oscars, and when Jennifer Aniston walked down the red carpet in a gorgeous black organza dress, I knew that I wanted to have that dress in white or ivory—with a little more flow. Who are your fashion influences? If I have to name a celebrity, it would probably be someone like Annette Bening or Diane Keaton. They both have a simple yet elegant style. Where do you shop? I like to shop in the boutiques in downtown Mill Valley, or the malls in Corte Madera. Never be caught dead in… Those new balloon dresses and tulip skirts… they’re just not my style.
Carrying an extensive collection of special occasion dresses.
What is your best cheapo secret? Costco; they’ve got some great buys. What do you splurge on? I like to live it up with my accessories. I love handbags and shoes, and sometimes I’ll splurge on Prada, Tods or Kate Spade. What is always in your bag? My cell phone, sunglasses and lipstick, usually Lancome or Chanel. What is the single most essential piece in your wardrobe? A great long-sleeve white T-shirt. What was the most expensive thing you’ve ever bought? When I was in London a few years ago, I bought a beautiful jacket by Japanese designer Issey Miyake.
green apples
Did it make you happy? I took it back. Was your wedding dress anything like the dress you dreamed of as a child? No.
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MARIN JANUARY 2007
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F Y I FO O D
SUGAR, SUGAR These days, wedding cake designers are constructing everything from traditional white tiers to flour-based knockoffs of the bride’s Jimmy Choos. Whatever the configuration, smart bridesand grooms-to-be will start shopping for a cake designer at least four to six months before the wedding; some of the best bakers can even be booked a year in advance. The cost of the cake generally depends on the labor-intensiveness of the design. Prices range from a few dollars to $25 a slice, though recently even the high end went over the top: To celebrate a luxury bridal show, designer Nahid La Patisserie Artistique and Mimi So Jewelers of Beverly Hills teamed to produce a $20 million diamond-clad dessert—surely the most expensive wedding cake ever. For an almost-as-extravagant showstopper at a less heart-stopping price, make an appointment with Shinmin Li of I Dream of Cake. Li’s famously uncanny couture-inspired confections, crafted with hand-painting and sculpting tech-
I Dream of Cake
niques, are almost too beautiful to eat. For an update on the classic cake, talk to Jill Branch and Ann Sakai of Branching Out. The duo create not only custom designs but custom flavors. For an edible artwork with modern flair, look up David and Galen Chesarek of My Friend the
A Smashing Good Time The vows have been said, rings exchanged and the first nup-
Chocolate Cake; the classically trained couple’s
tial kiss taken. Traditionally, it’s now time for the
Art Deco–motif creations taste as good as they
happy bride and groom to cut the cake and feed
look. For a custom cake designed by a five-star
each other the first bite. In the past, this was the
pastry chef try Gerhard Michler, the craftsman has produced desserts for three presidents. —Somer Flaherty
I Dream of Cake (SF).
moment when the groom would enter into the messy world of smashing the cake into the bride’s face. However, that trend seems to now be passé (thankfully); Courtney Snyder of Paula LeDuc Fine Catering can’t remember the last time she’s seen a cake-smashing at a client’s
415.989.2253, idreamofcake.com Branching Out (Corte Madera). 415.924.0198, branchingoutcakes.com My Friend the Chocolate Cake
Branching Out
wedding. Although if cake-smashing is going to be incorporated into a wedding, take Snyder’s advice: “I would recommend discussing it with your fiancé first so that it is
(SF). 415.551.6400,
not a surprise. Every bride envisions what she’ll look like
mftcc-sf.com
on her wedding day and very few imagine leaving their
Gerhard Michler (SF).
reception with sticky hair and a face full of frosting!” —S.F.
415.861.5158, gerhardmichler.com 38
MARIN JANUARY 2007
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Tasty Alternative The average slice of wedding cake is 320 calories, according to Charles Stuart Platkin, author of Breaking the Pattern and founder of iWellness Solutions. Besides the fat, the dessert is often full of eggs, wheat flour and sugar, which won’t sit well with guests who may have an intolerance or allergy to one or more of those ingredients. For a wheat-free, gluten-free, casein-free (milk-free) version that tastes just as good as the traditional, consider a dessert from a bakery that specializes in alternative ingredients. In 2003, Cameo LeBrun started the San Francisco–based Crave Bakery after learning she had celiac disease, which is triggered by the intake of gluten and makes it difficult to absorb nutrients. LeBrun had looked for gluten-free substitutes for her favorite treats but found few options. So she came up with her own decadent chocolate cakes, pumpkin tarts and brownie favors that are both healthy and allergy-safe. Hannah Tai of Hannah’s Edible Art is another baker of alternative-ingredient treats. A Culinary Institute of America graduate and former head pastry chef at several Bay Area restaurants, she concocts such unique cake flavorings as green tea, mango buttercream and chai-infused filling, offers all-vegan versions, and uses fairtrade chocolate to boot. For an organic focus, turn to the Cake Ladies. When chefs Celeste and Sina aren’t working for a well-known catering company, they’re putting the finishing touches on their own environmentally sound and healthy desserts. To them, a dessert that looks good, tastes good and can be considered healthy is a sweet combination indeed. —S.F. Crave Bakery, 415.826.7187, cravebakery.org Hannah’s Edible Art, 415.706.9654, hannahs-edibleart.com Cake Ladies, 415.999.1912, cakeladies.net
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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F Y I WEDDINGS
Say cheese! Sure, a photographer can capture the big moments, but for
Cigar Roller Looking for an extra shot
instant gratification and an added cool factor, rent a photo booth. Red
of pizazz with the after-dinner drinks? If you’ve got
Cheese provides a self-serve booth where up to eight guests can assem-
stogie-loving guests, hire a personal cigar roller.
ble, strike a pose and fire off as many pictures as they want. Inside the booth, guests will be hamming it up, while out-
The torcedor will dem-
side the candids are displayed to the entire crowd. If you’d
onstrate the process
rather put a professional
and answer questions
in charge, local photographer Ben Davidson will
from inquiring onlook-
install himself in a black-
ers. For an added touch
velvet-draped booth where
(and the perfect party
guests can enter and un-
favor), personalize the
leash their personalities for the lens. Post-party, both companies upload images to a website where they’re r e a d y t o o r d e r. Re d C h e e s e , 8 8 8 .7 7 0 .2 2 6 6 , redcheese.com; Ben Davidson, 41 5 .2 5 0 .9 9 41 ,
cigar band with the couple’s new monogram. CF Dominicana Cigars, 888.467.8400, cigarcatering. com; Telfords Pipe and Cigar, 415.388.0440, telfordspipeandcigar.com —S.F.
perfectdaydesigns.com —S.F.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
CA ND I D PH OTOS / BEN DAVIDS ON
Candid Shots
MIX IT UP For a twist on the traditional toast, serve your own signature cocktail. Jay Esopenko and Melissa Gugni, found-
The luxury is legendary
ers of Drink Event bartending, will create a spirit inspired by your personality or by the setting or theme of your event. Experience as mixologists in some of the top restaurants and bars around the world makes this couple adept at creating new combinations. A wedding at the Headlands inspired a cranberry-infused cosmopolitan named the Sausalito and a Chambord tequila sunrise called the Marin Sunset. A Halloween wedding at the Falkirk mansion produced the nonalcoholic Vampire Juice, made with organic juices and seltzer water. The Pink Fish, a cranberry lemon drop garnished with pink Swedish Fish candies, was a play on the groom’s high school nickname “the Fish.” Drink Event Bartending, 415.702.5431, drinksf.com —S.F.
RECIPE Try creating one of Drink’s own signature cocktails, the Ramona (after the historical name for sage), at home.
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• 2 oz. Square One organic vodka • 1 oz. fresh pressed apple juice
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• 1/2 oz. simple syrup • half a lime • 5 fresh sage leaves In a pint glass, muddle 4 sage leaves with the squeezed lime. Fill the pint glass with ice and the rest of the liquid ingredients. Shake until cold and strain in a martini glass. Garnish with the last sage leaf.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
Call your travel agent or 1.800.367.2525
www.kahalaresort.com for online reservations
MARIN JANUARY 2007
41
F Y I WEDDINGS
Encore Celebrations Whether it’s the second, third or fifth time around, these ceremonies are ultimately for the couple’s enjoyment. BY HEATHER O’NEILL
E
va Claiborne has worn a white gown twice—at her
ebration. Today, with more than 30 percent of betrothals being second,
first wedding and at what she calls her best wedding.
third or beyond —what are called encore weddings—couples are tossing
“I wanted to wear white and be [a] tradition-
etiquette to the wind like a discarded bouquet. “For many couples, a sec-
al bride,” says Claiborne, 47, a Tiburon resident and
ond wedding celebration is an expression of their personalities and style
owner of Eva Claiborne Skin Institute. “I didn’t care
and of who they are as a couple,” says Marin County wedding planner
what people would say.” When Claiborne said “I do” to 46-year-old jewelry designer Keith
and author Joyce Scardina Becker, owner of Events of Distinction of San Francisco. “There are no hard-and-fast rules.”
Bartel last May, it was her fifth trip down
In her book Countdown to Your Perfect
the aisle, but only his first. “I had never
Wedding, Scardina Becker says the “eti-
been married before so I really wanted a
quette police” are far less stringent for
traditional family wedding,” says Bartel.
encore weddings than they are for first-
For Claiborne, it was a chance to have
timers: “When a couple gets married for
the wedding she always wanted. “This was
the first time, brides in particular spend
my biggest and most traditional wedding,” she says. “And it was wonderful.” Not long ago etiquette mandated that a second wedding be a small, subdued cel-
Clockwise from lower: Eva Claiborne and Keith Bartel, Heidi and Dino Wilson, Amber Medkiff and David Bramnick.
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Custom wall finishes by talented artisans with a green mindset. a lot of time worrying about the details. But
ety, whether it is due to divorce or the death of a spouse. The more common encore weddings have become, the more people seem to realize that as long as it doesn’t harm or hurt anyone, your celebration can be whatever you want it to be.” Remarriages usually occur between people who are older and more financially secure,
ning the event, Scardina Becker says. “First weddings are often more for the couple’s families, particularly because often they are paid for by the bride’s family.” Encore couples typically pay for their own weddings, she says, giving “them more freedom to create a wedding that is more about them.” Claiborne and Bartel became engaged less than a month after their first date. He proposed with a ring he designed and created at his shop in Belvedere. They set an early date, leaving little time to plan. For help, they turned to Cindy Danbom with Bella Notte Events, a decision that made the planning enjoyable: “I had no pressure,” Claiborne says. They had a church ceremony with 120 guests, and 80 were invited to a sit-down meal at Bartel’s childhood home, the Cove House, now part of the San Francisco Yacht Club. Claiborne says beginning this chapter of her life with Bartel feels like the realization of a dream. “I always knew that I am a dream wife for someone and I knew I would find him…and I have,” she says. “Now I am so much happier than ever in my life.” Heidi and Dino Wilson purposely avoided tradition for their encore wedding. Heidi had
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ly about me anymore. This time, I didn’t re-
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
MARIN JANUARY 2007
43
ally do any research about etiquette. I just did what felt comfortable to me.” White didn’t seem right to wear, Wilson says, because she was six and a half months pregnant. “So I went totally opposite and wore a dark red dress.” The Wilsons, both from San Rafael, decided to marry shortly after they met through Match. com. A friend became ordained as a minister
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for the day and led the ceremony at Barn Diva in Healdsburg, where they hosted a dinner for 35 friends. Since the wedding, baby Ryder has arrived and husband Dino Wilson, a Sonoma County real estate agent, says his head is still spinning. “When you merge a single, 44-year-old man with a woman and a six-year-old who have an
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established routine and then throw a new baby into the mix, it’s hard sometimes,” he says. “It’s been a little bit crazy. But we’re all adjusting
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and it is getting better.” Longtime Marin residents Amber Medkiff and David Bramnick became engaged on Valentine’s Day 2005. Each had been married before and they had different ideas for their encore performance. Bramnick, 58, station manager for KCBS radio in San Francisco, wanted to keep the celebration small, while Medkiff, a
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luxury travel director in her 40s, wanted to, in her words, “do it up.” She prevailed. What persuaded Bramnick was the idea of family togetherness. “I lost my sister a few years ago,” he says, “and seeing everyone
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come together at that time made me realize how wonderful it would be to have everyone come together [in] happiness rather than sadness. I thought if Amber wanted to have a bigger wedding, great. Between the two of us we found this really happy medium and it was a unique celebration.” It was important to both that Bramnick’s daughter, Rebecca, 21, play a role in their wedding. Medkiff chose Rebecca as her maid
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MARIN JANUARY 2007
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“
We wanted that feeling of theater and she made it dramatic and beautiful.
”
— DAVID BRAMNICK
of honor, a choice that came easily: “I love her as if she was my own,” she says. The pair hired Gayle Nicoletti of Bloomingayles Design Studio in Mill Valley to help them shape the celebration. Meanwhile, Medkiff consulted wedding books about etiquette questions. “Truthfully,” she says, “there were a lot of ‘don’t’s’ that I did. I mean, typ-
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felt like the first time so I broke all the rules.” In another break with tradition, they registered with HoneyLuna, a Sausalito-based company that enables guests to contribute to a getaway fund for the honeymoon. And they chose a local theater as venue for a wedding cer-
Van Craeynest San Francisco
emony designed to evoke Phantom of the Opera. “We are the first people who ever got married at the Throckmorton Theatre in Mill Valley,” Bramnick says. “It is a really cool place.” They sent out save-the-date cards shaped like large theater tickets and began deciding on details. “That was where Gayle [Nicoletti] really worked her magic,” says Medkiff. “We wanted that feeling of theater and she made it dramatic and beautiful.” Thousands of red rose petals covered the floor. An opera singer performed a song from Phantom as Medkiff walked down the aisle. Later her father, an acclaimed jazz singer, performed a set of tunes in her honor. San Francisco chef Gerald Hirigoyen catered the affair. “I wanted it to be exactly what it was,”
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Medkiff says, “which was the best night
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of my life.”
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
MARIN JANUARY 2007
45
F Y I B O O KS
For the Dogs Writer and illustrator J.otto Seibold continues his homage to canines in a new picture book for kids and grown-ups.
everyone should make the switch. “There’s the
A self-taught illustrator who these days
whole war-for-oil thing, it’s totally soul-enrich-
works exclusively on his Apple computer
ing, and you’ll feel better about commuting to
(“they should really give me a free one”) in
your job every day. And if you don’t, I will per-
the Illustrator software program, Seibold (or
sonally come over to your house and hug you
Jim, as he’s known to friends) seems to rel-
until you do.”
ish saying whatever pops into his head. As he
Such are the statements coming from the
talks about his new book, Quincy the Hobby
artist who created, along with writer (and ex-
Photographer: The Complete Guide to Do-It-
wife) Vivian Walsh, the whimsical book Olive
Yourself Dog Photography ($14.95, Harcourt),
the Other Reindeer ($14.95, Chronicle Books),
he says it’s his “response to William Wegman
hildren’s book author and illustrator
C
about a little dog named Olive who believes
[and Wegman’s popular Weimaraner dog pho-
J.otto Seibold is very enthusiastic
she’s—wait for it—one of Santa’s reindeer.
tos]. But it’s a much more bone-headed selling
about his Mercedes-Benz. “I’ve con-
That book, which has its tenth anniversary
of dog images,” he adds. “It’s been the lon-
verted to driving a biodiesel vehicle,” he says.
this year, was made into an animated televi-
gest book in the making because I showed it
“I haven’t been to a real gas station in months.”
sion special by the production company of
to several publishers and then kept pulling it
He goes on to describe the place in Berkeley
Simpsons creator Matt Groening, featuring the
back. They all wanted me to make it cute, like
where he gets his fuel—“it’s much more grano-
voice of Drew Barrymore. The book and car-
a puppy calendar, because puppy calendars are
la shack than Shell station”—and the reasons
toon became instant holiday classics.
flying off the shelves.”
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P H OTO: DARC IE I . ED G EMON
BY OLIVIA BOLER
For those unfamiliar with Seibold’s work, Quincy is a character who has shown up in Seibold’s Mr. Lunch books, which follow the adventures of another little dog much like Olive. In Quincy’s solo debut, he takes it on himself to instruct readers in his favorite hobby—photographing dogs—which requires him to don a “modern pro-thusiast” suit that includes a stylish toupee and hat. To the proposition that Quincy is Seibold’s alter ego, Seibold answers, “Well, he’s really dumb. He thinks he’s so great, putting out this self-help book, but he’s totally unaccredited and he’s dispensing this advice, telling people to put their cameras on automatic. He’s overplaying his stature. He’s basically stepping out.” Quincy, like most of Seibold’s work, has kid appeal due to its mod silliness and adult appeal because it’s also quite campy. Seibold, 46, shot all the photos—he is almost never without a camera, and is very serious about photography and dogs—and while most are on 35-mm color-slide film, a few are digital. To make his illustrations, Seibold uses a digital Wacom tablet that can lie flat on a table. He works in the kitchen of his San Francisco Potrero Hill home. “I use a laptop so I’ve almost achieved complete mobility when it comes to my work.” And his work is everywhere. A few years ago, Nordstrom used the Olive the Other Reindeer story as its theme for the holidays—you could find Olive images on Nordstrom gift cards, in advertisements, and decked throughout the store. More recently, Seibold entered into a partnership with Target for its “Ready. Sit. Read!” program for children and parents. Seibold, who has three children with Walsh, created the artwork for “things like these elaborate freebies, like a cutout backpack full of stickers and flags that can be made into a bird or a rocket or both.” Next up, Seibold is working on the tenth-anniversary edition of Olive. The real Olive, a Jack Russell terrier, has passed away, and Seibold now keeps company with a Chihuahua named Po Jangles and a Chihuahua/pit bull mix named Iggy Fantastic. “I tell people he’s half dog and half mosquito,” he says with a laugh. Sounds like a good beginning for the next book.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
MARIN JANUARY 2007
47
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trated by Sophie Blackall ($14.95, Chronicle Books) This second installment in the Ivy and Bean series continues the chapterbook adventures of two little girls who seem perfectly mismatched as friends. Yet they do gymnastics together, sit together in their secondgrade class, and tell each other their darkest secrets. When Ivy discovers a ghost in the school bathroom, it takes both girls’ courage and imagination to make it go away. A sweetly engaging story from Berkeley writer Barrows. Iris and Walter and the Birthday Party, by Elissa Haden Guest, illustrated by Christine Davenier ($15,
82 2nd Street, 2nd Floor, San Francisco 415.247.9897 . josephcappuccisalon.com
Harcourt Children’s Books) San Francisco author Guest tells the further adventures of best friends Walter and Iris. It’s Walter’s birthday
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and he has big plans for celebrating with his friends and family. Even his horse Rain is excited. But when the big day arrives, something unexpected happens. Will Walter’s birthday be ruined? A perfect read for ages 6 to 9. The End: A Series of Unfortunate Events, Book 13, by Lemony Snicket,
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illustrated by Brad Helquist ($12.99, HarperCollins) With all due ceremony, the final book in the wildly popular series by San Francisco’s native son Daniel Handler, aka Snicket, is coming to a close. Or is it? What can the truly haunting secret about the parents of the Baudelaire orphans—Violet, Klaus and Sunny—possibly be? Fans, as ever, will likely not heed the advice of the Baudelaires’ biographer to “drop this book at once” and do something else, nor should they.
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BOOKSELLERS RECOMMEND FAVORITE SELF-HELP BOOKS Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life by Marshall B. Rosenberg (Puddledancer Press, $17.95) “This book teaches a person how to communicate with anybody and how to control your reactive nature and make a positive experience out of conflict resolution, which comes up so frequently.” —Gary Kleiman, BookBeat, Fairfax
Don’t Get Scrooged by Richard Carlson (Harper, $16.95) “This best selling author of Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff tells you how to keep your chin up and survive in a world full of obnoxious, arrogant and mean spirited people.” — Danielle Sanger, Copperfield’s Books, Santa Rosa
Codependent No More by Melody Beattie (Hazelden, $15.95) “I’d recommend this book because it’s had
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more than four million copies sold and is celebrating its 20th anniversary for good reason. The subtitle says
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it all—how to stop controlling others and start caring for yourself. This is a
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and what they really need is a more healthy relationship.” —Sharon Jones, Habitat Books, Sausalito.
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FYI FITNESS
INDOOR ENDORPHINS Not breaking news: Being physically active helps build healthy bones, joints and muscles and reduces the overall risk of almost every known disease. As our former Defense Secretary put it: “There are things we know, we know…” We all know we should exercise, but let’s face it: the weather is dreary, and our inspiration for working out is in hibernation. Yet it doesn’t have to be this way. Marin has a fine selection of indoor locations to facilitate muscle burn, metabolism rev and endorphin flow.
Sweat Equity According to Matt Dixon, performance director at Endurance PTC in Mill Valley, “winter is the perfect time to head to the gym and work on building strength. Often ignored by athletes of all levels, a consistent strength program will pay dividends when you’re back training outside.” In addition to performance, he adds, “a stronger body is critical in preventing injuries.” Whether you are a hardcore athlete or fitness enthusiast, Dixon emphasizes concentrating on strength and foundation during these cool, soggy months.
Belly Up to the Barre Thousands of women and a few men around the country are addicted to an intensive, nonimpact hourlong workout involving floor and ballet barre exercises. With a background in kinesiology and fitness, Jill Dailey, of Corte Madera’s Dailey Method, brought her own combination of Pilates, yoga and ballet barre exercises to Marin five years ago. A similar workout can be found at the Bar Method in Greenbrae. Each studio boasts a loyal following of superfit clients. “It’s like having my own personal trainer, with a little peer pressure added in,” says Jamie Macy, a Bar Method devo-
Outdoor Endorphins Check out this hot holiday item for kids and grown-ups alike. Developed back in 1996 by Larkspur native Rob Fruechtenicht, the Diggler comes in variety of sizes and colors. These patented scooters come with off-road tires, brakes and an easy-to-stand-on skateboard deck. “Lots of ski resorts are using them as a recreation option during summer, a women’s fitness magazine recently did a story on them, but my favorite use is dogsledding,” says Fruechtenicht. Apparently, once you strap on the harness, something triggers Fido’s genetic pack hunter impulse and the dogs take off, with their masters in tow. Free delivery for all Marin residents, 707.775.2452. diggler.com —M.T
tee, “and frankly it’s more convenient and costs a lot less.” —Mimi Towle
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Feeling motivated? Indoor workout options: 24/7 An energizing full-body exercise routine that combines core and cardio with strength and conditioning packed into a 30-minute time period. 383 Miller Ave (Mill Valley). 415.380.1200, 24hourfit.com Bay Club Marin A 25-yard indoor swimming pool, five group exercise studios—including Pilates and yoga, cardiovascular strength training, luxurious locker rooms and more. 220 Corte Madera Town Center (Corte Madera). 415.945.3000, bayclubmarin.com Class 5 Climbing and Fitness Build strength and firm up muscle tone at this indoor climbing facility (the only one in Marin). 25-B Dodie St (San Rafael). 415.485.6931, touchstoneclimbing.com Endurance PTC With a foundation in the science of exercise and training, physiological testing is used to provide cyclists, runners, triathletes and general fitness enthusiasts with the information needed to achieve maximum results. 8 Madrona St (Mill Valley). 415.380.9629, enduranceptc.com Mill Valley Health Club No initiation fee at this full-service health club and spa. 639 E. Blithedale Ave (Mill Valley). 415.380.8787, millvalleyhealthclub.com The Bar Method An intensive one-hour class centered around a ballet barre that strengthens and tones the entire body. 208 Bon Air Center (Greenbrae). 415.461.5461, barmethod.com The Dailey Method A unique combination of core strengthening, ballet barre and orthopedic exercises. 11 First St (Corte Madera). 415.927.1133, thedaileymethod.com Ultimate Fitness One-on-one slowmotion strength training, 20 minutes, only two times per week. 457 Miller Ave (Mill Valley). 415.380.8033, ultimatefit.com —M.T
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C O N V ERSAT ION
Many credit this unassuming “problem solver” and her 142 Throckmorton Theatre with having transformed downtown Mill Valley. BY JIM WOOD
LUCY MERCER
E
dgy impresario? Ego-driven arbiter of the arts? Temperamental producer? Though the nouns impresario, arbiter and producer work; adjectives like edgy, ego-driven
and temperamental have no place in describing Lucy Mercer. She’s simply, well, nice; really nice. “I think I’m a problem solver” is how Mercer defines herself. And her solution to a somewhat dormant nighttime Mill Valley was to put her life
savings at risk by purchasing the 90-year-old Odd Fellows Lodge at 142 Throckmorton Avenue. Then, after transforming it into a gem of a 300-seat community theater, she’s attracted the likes of, among others, Joan Baez, Robin Williams, Bonnie Raitt, Dana Carvey, and, just recently, Woody Allen who appeared with his New Orleans Jazz Band. According to her, she’s only just begun. In 2007, the 52-year-old longtime Mill Valley resident plans to create the nonprofit Mill Valley LiveArts Foundation to, in her words, “see that this place continues if I keel over” and also to serve as a “think tank” for moving 142 Throckmorton Theatre
PHOTO TIM PORTER into the future. As for its beginnings, Mercer leaves no doubt as to who was responsible. “Was I the lunatic who started it?” she asks rhetorically. “Yes, I was that lunatic.”
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Was there an initial plan for 142 Throckmorton Theatre, or did it just evolve? My primary desire was to provide downtown Mill Valley with more community space. I wanted to vitaliz e the community and I believed the arts offered the ability to do that. Arts are wonderful threads that run through everything we do in our lives. E stablishing the (theater) building downtown was a way of restoring a sense of ownership and place to the broader community. F or a small community like Mill Valley, the downtown is our center point and a reflection of our greater values. I believe every community needs places where they can gather to reflect, to rejoice, to gain information. Our individual homes provide refuge and support our independent lives —however a dynamic community provides a multitude of opportunities to draw together. And I felt that the theater had the ability to do that. Do you personally select the acts appearing at 142 Throckmorton? If you’re filling the house five or six nights a week, that’s significant time commitment. As artistic director, I have elected to program a wide vari-
be gorgeous
ety of top artists from many fields. It has been a steep learning curve—there are so many incredibly talented people. I spend an enormous amount of time researching and listening and then I ultimately rely on my intuition. Because
ey that many artists ask for—so I look for opportunities to present them that may appeal to them in other ways. I might agree not to advertise their name or I might provide them rehearsal space prior to a large show of theirs. I also ask our audiences to become collaborators in the creative process—a rehearsal or a staged reading is an opportunity to see this vital process at work. Instead of attending solely as a critic the audience becomes an associate, an important component of the end product. Without advertising, how do you sell out almost every night? Q uite often these evenings result in more satisfaction and connection between the audience and the performer
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of our siz e we cannot pay the amount of mon-
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than the practiced or final product can accom-
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plish. And the natural result of this is audiences who return and are willing to explore other shows. Our website, 142throckmortontheatre.com, will usually list our upcoming shows about two months ahead. It’s very simple. Also, at the theater or the website people leave their e-mail address and we give them a heads-up when a particular group or guest is about to make an appearance. Currently, how many are on your e-mail list? Approximately 6,000. Name a few groups or individuals that have made memorable appearances at 142 Throckmorton Theatre? 142 Throckmorton Theatre was honored with membership in Z Space’s Western Coast Presenters Commissioning Initiative. This allows us, among other things, to present some of the incredible work coming out of Word for Word. One of this past year’s highlights was
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their production of Amy Tan’s Immortal Heart.
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I am looking forward to their newest production, which is scheduled in February 2007. We also have an abundance of master musicians who have given us some phenomenal concerts. The theater’s acoustics are superb for music and voice. A favorite of mine is Phil Fath, who was the chief clarinetist for the San Francisco Opera and Symphony. When he plays, the exuberance in his body translates immediately to the audience and he’s truly a pleasure to watch. Another memorable performance was the illusionist/magician Patrick Martin. He lives locally and is one of the world’s top ten magicians. His friends and family were able to see his show for the first time when we presented it two years ago—in addition to all of the magicians who traveled in just to see him! Mark Pitta hosts our Tuesday Night Comedy shows—Mark Pitta and Friends. We collabo-
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rate to produce a high-quality show every
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ties go far beyond his hosting and stand-up.
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including the spontaneous addition of many
week. Mark is one of the best hosts that I have seen onstage and his creative juices and abili-
The show has had many memorable moments,
local star comedians, including Dana Carvey,
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Robin Williams and Brian Copeland. And it has spanned a loyal following among the community who make up the audience. What are 142 Throckmor ton’s ticket prices? Our ticket prices range from $15 for Mark Pitta & Friends to an average of $25. The prices are dictated by the cost of the performer and their supportive needs. I have strong feelings about keeping our prices affordable and our programs accessible to our entire community. This requires sponsorship and underwriting for some of the programs. We are actively seeking community members who are interested in helping with this endeavor. It’s been two years now that 142 Throckmorton Theatre has had significant prominence. Looking back, is there a secret to what you’ve accomplished? I don’t know that there is a particular secret. The big picture, taken as a whole, can be quite daunting. My philosophy is brick by brick. I hold on to the big picture, but each day I try to add value on a
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scale that I can accomplish that day. Each daily step adds to the next and eventually tips the scale and the dream becomes a reality. I don’t do this alone; it has been a labor of love and a love for our community that drives us to hold on to the best of dreams rather than settle for
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something midway. In today’s world it is particularly important to understand the value each step or brick contributes to the whole. It’s the idea that they can’t make a difference that
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keeps many people from taking that first step.
Diane von Furstenberg Theory
What are the tall mountains you want to climb in 2007? In order to ensure that 142 Throckmorton Theatre can provide and grow our cultural collaborations, we have organized
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as a not-for-profit corporation. 2007 is a pivot-
Hudson
al year in solidifying this organization. We are
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seeking dreamers, planners, skilled people who
and more...
can envision our community as a reflection of the values we all hold important. People who can and are willing to take action. I have great hopes that 2007 will bring together the best of us in this pursuit—for conversations, brick-laying, and great hikes up that tall mountain.
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601 San Anselmo Avenue San Anselmo . 415.454.2629
MARIN JANUARY 2007
55
LO O K I NG BACK
A Century of Railroading Trains ran routes through Marin County to Eureka for nearly 100 years. BY JIM WOOD
T
he first trains appeared in Marin County in 1 8 6 9 and the last disappeared in 1 9 6 7 —just two years shy of a century of local railroading. The halfway point in that history came on J anuary 8 , 1 9 0 7 , when the N orthwestern Pacific Railroad was incorporated. “It was a consolida-
tion of several existing railroads, including two that originated in Marin County, and it operated in an area known as the Redwood E mpire,” says rail historian F red Codoni of F airfax.
Above: During the 1920s and 30s, Sausalito was the southern terminus for Northwestern Pacific Railroad passenger trains heading as far north as Eureka. Upper left: In 1953, in Tiburon, a diesel engine uses three flatcars, or “reachers,” to shove loaded railcars onto a barge. Lower left: Also in 1953, diesel electric Train No. 81, blasts out of a San Rafael tunnel pulling 60 cars of freight. (All photos courtesy of the Codoni Collection.)
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engagement rings As Codoni and Paul C. Trimble of Novato write in their 143-page pictorial book Northwestern Pacific Railroad (Arcadia Press,
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2006), Marin’s first railroad tracks were laid in 1869 by the San Rafael & San Quentin Railroad. “Yes, the prison was already there,” says Codoni in an interview, “but it was also the landing for a ferry coming over from San Francisco. The idea, adds Trimble, in our interview, “was to replace the dusty stagecoach ride between the two early Marin destinations.” Inside of a few years, the North Pacific Coast Railroad leased the short SR & SQ line, and railroading in Marin began to gather steam (so to speak).
55 Throckmorton Ave. downtown Mill Valley 415-380-0880
By 1873, the North Pacific Coast Railroad was building north from Sausalito, the aim being to reach the timber logged along the Russian River. That line eventually made it
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to Monte Rio, Duncan Mills and Cazadero in Sonoma County, with Marin stops in San Rafael, San Anselmo, San Geronimo, Point Reyes Station and Tomales. By 1875, according to Barry Spitz’s Marin, A History (Potrero Meadows Publishing, 2006), in addition to timber and tourists, shipments of potatoes, oats and butter regularly left Tomales headed for San Francisco. “The North Pacific Coast Railroad contributed mightily to the growth of Marin’s population, commerce and tourism,” writes Spitz. By 1881, however, that railroad’s costs were outstripping its revenues, and an English syndicate bought the line. In 1902 it was reincorporated as the North Shore Railroad and five years later played a role in the large scale merger that formed the Northwestern Pacific. Another Marin railway operating during the same period was eventually involved in the same 1907 merger. The San Francisco and Northern Pacific Railway, which opened in the mid-1880s, originated at the ferry landing in Tiburon (five miles closer to San Francisco than Point San Quentin) and ran north to Ukiah, with stops in San Rafael, Novato, Santa
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— FRED CODONI Rosa and Healdsburg. “Around the turn of the century,” says Trimble, “the SF & NP was carrying close to a million passengers a year and had net revenues exceeding $400,000.” But
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within a decade business dwindled, and after filing for bankruptcy, being acquired and being renamed the California Northwestern Railway, it too joined Northwestern Pacific. The 1907 merger also involved the famed Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway and some Southern Pacific lines. “The Santa Fe
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north than Willits.” The merger was intend-
says Codoni, but “a gap existed because trains originating in Marin went no farther
ed to link those lines into a network of railroads throughout Northern California, the area known to railroaders as, the Redwood Empire. The line was completed by 1914, Codoni says, and trains leaving Marin then ran all the way to Eureka. In the following years, Tiburon became the hub for freight trains and Sausalito the starting point for passenger trains. “By 1924, summer Sundays saw 14 scheduled steam trains leaving Sausalito for San Rafael, Santa Rosa, Cloverdale, Ukiah and Eureka,” writes Codoni in Northwestern Pacific Railroad. Passenger
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and freight carriage increased until the late 1920s, says Codoni, when the rising popularity of cars, better roads and use of trucks to carry freight cut into the railroad business. “Then came the Depression,” says Codoni, “and it just ate up the railroads.” In 1929,
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the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe sold its share of Northwestern Pacific to Southern Pacific. In 1930, the line from Point Reyes Station to Monte Rio closed. By 1942, only two steam-powered passenger trains a day were leaving Sausalito. “Rail traffic revived temporarily with World War II, when the NWP began hauling carloads of materials into Sausalito’s Marinship for the construction of Liberty Ships,” Trimble recalls. And the postwar building boom provided another boost: “Sand and gravel were coming into Marin from Healdsburg, lumber and plasterboard came from the Pacific Northwest, and carloads of autos would arrive in San Rafael from the Middle West.” But by the early 1950s, with diesel-electric engines replacing steam power, railroading in Marin County was slowly grinding to a halt. “Passenger service made a bit of a comeback, then phased out altogether,” recalls Codoni, “and in June of 1967, the last freight train pulled out of Tiburon.”
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ATTENTION MARIN RAILROAD BUFFS: Copies of Northwestern Pacific Railroad by Fred Codoni and Paul C. Trimble (Arcadia Press-2006) are available via mail from the Northwestern Pacific Railroad Historical
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Society, P.O. Box 667, Santa Rosa, CA, 95402-0667. Price: $30.68 including tax and shipping. A plaque commemorating the 100th anniversary of the incorporation of the Northwestern Pacific Railroad will be dedicated on Sunday, January 7, 2007. The ceremony—organized by the Native Sons of the Golden West, with rail historian Fred Codoni as master of ceremonies—will take place at 1 p.m. outside the Railroad-Ferry Depot Museum at 1920 Paradise Drive in Tiburon. The public is cordially invited to attend. MARINMAGAZINE.COM
MARIN JANUARY 2007
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PLAY
Middle Eastern Workout Belly dancing to stay fit BY SAMANTHA BRONSON
L
ike many a Marin mom, Melanie Lee begins her days begin in fast forward and stays that way: getting breakfast ready, driving the kids to school, running errands, picking up the kids, preparing dinner, helping with homework. Yet for about an hour most days, Lee transforms from
busy mom to dancing goddess—shimmying and shaking to the sounds of Middle Eastern music. For this Terra Linda mother of five, belly dancing is a chance to reach within herself without even realizing it. “You really don’t even think about focusing
ment,” says Lee. Forget the popularized notion of young harem girls seducing the sultan with their undulating hips. Belly dancing is an ancient art form that celebrates the feminine, the inner divin-
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PHOTOS: TIM PORTER
on yourself because you’re so into the move-
DAI@ K76 ;D> ity in each woman, with movements that come
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naturally to women of all ages, body types and backgrounds. No wonder it appeals to Marin women who relish a great physical workout that also nourishes the soul. Also called Middle Eastern dancing, belly dancing is widely believed to have begun as a women’s dance in the Middle East, yet its exact origins remain a mystery. Some think it may have initially served as a birthing ceremony, as the movements tone and strengthen the muscles used during labor. Still others contend it was originally part of a religious tradition or possibly a fertility ritual. Whatever its true history, belly dancers agree on one thing—the dance is much more wholesome than its reputation suggests. “It’s not about seduction,” says Dhyanis, who has been belly dancing for 35 years and
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co-owns WorldDance Fitness, a dance studio in San Anselmo. “It was not originally intended in that way, and yet we do feel ultrafeminine when we do it.” (Some men do belly dance as well.) Just one class is enough to confirm that point to even the most beginner-level student. As hips sway in a figure-eight pattern, tassels dangling from clothing mimic the movement. Arms extend from the body, flowing, snakelike. Chests move up, down, and side-to-side without anything else moving. Everything about the dance is graceful, but in a sensual, not sexual, way. This is clearly a discipline that involves more than simply shaking one’s hips. While it emphasizes natural movements, it is not effortless. Part of the challenge comes from the muscle isolation the dance demands: each area of the body—hips, arms, shoulders, chest—must be moved independently of other areas. Add in uptempo music and you have
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a heart-pumping workout. Yet within three
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“It’s not like ballet, where you have to study for 20 years to be really good or you have to start when you’re really young,” she says. “You can be 50 and start [belly dancing].” In fact, many of her students began belly dancing later in life. Crystal Wright, a 53-yearold consultant from San Rafael, tried a class about three years ago and was hooked: “I just loved the way I felt during and after the classes,” she says. “The best instructors understand women’s bodies and how to coax movement
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out of them.” They also know that belly dancing has the power to change the way a woman sees herself. It teaches women about the strength they
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if their bodies are far from perfect. These are
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moves that all women can perform, regardless of age or physique; something about shimmying one’s hips in front of others helps self-con-
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the core muscle group. After belly dancing for a year, 46-year-old Lee found herself no longer needing medication for her lower back pain. Remaining limber is another bonus, which Dhyanis, 59, displays proudly with a standing forward bend—knees straight and hands flat on the floor. It’s also just downright fun. Women are encouraged to embrace their creative sides with
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colorful, billowing fabrics, jewelry and coindecorated scarves tied low on their hips. Barefoot on the dance floor, they set aside their lives as attorneys, psychiatrists, nurses and homemakers and focus on coming togeth-
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Trunk Show Saturday, December 23rd 412 Corte Madera Town Center (415) 924-2210
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Indulge your inner dancing diva and join a local class at one of these locations:
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Inner Rhythm 518D Tamalpais Dr. Corte Madera 415.388.6683 Beginner to advanced classes; call for schedule. All sessions are drop-in. Cost is $14 per class or $96 for eight classes within eight weeks.
World Dance Fitness 40 Greenfield Ave. San Anselmo 415.457.8787 worlddancefitness.com Beginner to advanced classes; schedule online. All sessions are drop-in. Cost is $15 per class, or buy a 10-class card for $125, a 20-class card for $220.
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THE BIG DAY Five Couples, Five Different Versions of the Perfect Day The perfect wedding means something different to every couple. For some it includes dancing all night with every person they’ve ever met. For others, a quiet family-only affair feels best. Some people like bagpipes, some prefer boogeying to Beyoncé. Planning the ideal wedding has nothing to do with getting everything right, and everything to do with getting it right for you. The five weddings here—one casual, one large and lavish, one intimate, and one a plane ride away from home—represent five different dream versions of the big day. BY SAMANTHA BERRY
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Amanda Wilkins & Tim de Pala Cornerstone Gardens, Sonoma
I
t became clear that Amanda and Tim’s wedding was not going to be the usual affair at the rehearsal dinner when a taco truck pulled up in front of the lovely vineyard house they were renting at Cornerstone Gardens. “We had tables and chairs out on the lawn and everyone just lined up and ordered what they wanted.
It was great,” says Amanda, the copy chief for Restoration Hardware. The next day was no less surprising. The couple, who met at an Oscar party and share what they call an “obsession” with
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film (Tim is a producer for a visual effects
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the wedding to truly reflect their person-
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alities. “We didn’t want pomp and circumstance. We didn’t want show,” says Tim. Choosing Cornerstone Gardens, with
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its emphasis on design and art, was the
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says Tim. “It sort of mirrors our vibe as a
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Once they had their location, they got their friends involved. “We let them do
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what they wanted. We made sure they had
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a hand in it,” says Tim. A friend designed
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their invitation, modeled after a movie
jengadesign.com
poster. Another made the cupcakes that served as their cake. The DJ was a friend, as were the florists. “We didn’t have any colors or anything. We just bought the flowers that looked the best the day before the wedding,” explains Amanda, who carried a bouquet of orange dahlias. As favors the couple placed handmade “T&A” buttons and fake mustaches at each place setting. “We wanted to silly it up,” says Tim. “We stole the idea from Martha Stewart and then camped it up a bit.” To go along with a menu that included Filipino dishes like lumpia and pan sit, they served Pabst Blue Ribbon beer and had a line added to their catering contract that it could not be poured into a glass but must be served in the can. When asked what advice they would give to couples planning their big day, they are in absolute agreement. “Be absolutely true to who you are and don’t listen to what you’re supposed to do.”
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Robyn Asato & Marcello Sebastiani Makena Beach, Maui
R
obyn and Marcello Sebastiani had been dating for eight years and been engaged for nearly three by the time they tied the knot at an intimate sunset ceremony overlooking the Pacific. The N ovato couple initially thought they would have a big wedding in Carmel
and spent three months searching for the perfect spot until they real-
Location: White Orchid
iz ed their idea of perfect included tropical weather and a relaxed island
Beach House, Maui, Hawaii
vibe. Once they decided on Maui (where Robyn’s family is originally
whiteorchidwedding.com 800.240.9336
from), they had no q ualms about planning a destination wedding. “We
Photographer:
just figured if no one could go, it would just be the two of us,” Robyn
Steve Slater, sslater.com,
says. In the end, 2 5 family members and friends joined them for their
808.283.7800
August celebration.
Caterer: Michael Feil Catering, feilfood.com 808.357.6806
They found the location first—a beautiful house on a grassy bluff overlooking the beach—and then began working with the wedding
Cake:
planners who handle the site. “I could have planned it [ long distance]
Maui Wedding cakes
myself, but it would have been much harder,” Robyn says. White Orchid
mauiweddingcakes.com
took care of everything from the flowers and food to the hula dancers
Invitations: Handmade by the bride Music: Harpist and
who appeared after dinner. But the wedding was no cookie-cutter production. Robyn spent a
Hawaiian guitarist arranged
lot of time creating personal touches: sand dollar invitations, Maui
by White Orchid Wedding
welcome bags and personaliz ed luggage tags for each guest. To honor
Wedding planner:
her father, who passed away several years ago, she carried a flower
Jacqueline Ishikawa, White Orchid Wedding whiteorchidwedding.com
lei as she walked down the aisle with her mom and then placed it on an empty chair in the front row. “It was a symbol that he was coming down the aisle with us,” she says. After the ceremony, they enjoyed a sunset cocktail hour followed by dinner under a tent, where everyone sat together at a long table to eat an island-inspired meal including coconut rice and huli huli chicken. F or Robyn, the intimacy of the wedding was the best part. Because there were only 2 5 guests, they all had a chance to get to know one another. “We spent a few days in H awaii before the wedding and we all did stuff together. E veryone really felt bonded,” she says.
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Meg Masuno & Stuart McLaughlin The Meadow Club, Fairfax
A
fter a romantic surprise proposal at the Fairmont in San Francisco, Meg and Stu took two weeks to just enjoy being engaged. Then the planning began. They started by sitting down and deciding what was important. The words they came up with—“warmth,”
“family,” “friends,” “fun” and “relaxed”—became the foundation on which all the other details were constructed. “We really had a shared understanding of what we wanted,” Meg says. A year later, at their June wedding at the Meadow Club in Fairfax, all the planning paid
Location: Meadow Club in
off. The details were perfect: the pink roses
Fairfax, meadowclub.com
and green hydrangeas were lovely, the 180-
415.453.3274
plus guests dined on filet mignon and salmon, the tables were named for Marin trails
Photographer: Gertrude & Mabel, gertrudeandmabel.com 415.255.0258
Meg and Stu had hiked together. Everyone,
Caterer: Meadow Club
regardless of age or skill, took to the dance
Cake: Masse’s Pastries
floor. The couple even made it through the
510.649.1004
most stressful part of the day—their first
Flowers: Cherries Flowers
dance, to Sinatra’s “Cheek to Cheek”—with aplomb. “It was a great party,” Meg admits.
cherriesflowers.com 415.441.0310 Music: Beat Street Jams
“We put in a lot of work, thought and plan-
gig@associatedentertainment.com
ning and then we both just let go of all that
Invitations: Lyssa Rome
and were really in the moment.”
(letterpress)
But it was the family and friends part that made it really special. At the rehearsal dinner, Stu’s mom, who sings in children’s theater
lyssarome@gmail.com Wedding planner: Melissa Panico, mapevents.com 415.648.0307
in San Francisco, sang the couple a song she had written for them. Meg’s father, a retired Presbyterian minister, officiated the ceremony and Meg’s mom, also a singer, sang the Lord’s Prayer. Their wedding party was made up of friends from college, business school and childhood. Stu’s dad was his best man. “I didn’t appreciate how incredible it was going to be to have all our family and friends together. It was such a high,” Robyn says. “It was the best day of our lives.”
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Sylvia Raiano & Jim Robinson Domaine Chandon, Yountville
S
ylvia Raiano and Jim Robinson are proof positive that love can find you when you are least expecting it. Almost six years ago, they met at an ATM and Sylvia almost got away. After making brief small talk, Jim said, “Nice to meet you,” returned to his car and started to
leave. “Then I thought, ‘Why don’t I ever follow up on these things?’”
Location: Domaine Chandon chandon.com
he recalls, “so I turned my car around, pulled up next to her and asked her out.” She said yes. They exchanged phone numbers, and five and
Photographer:
half years later they were running around the Napa Valley in a frenzy,
Jennifer Paschal of Bruce
planning their wedding.
Forrester Photography bruceforrester.com 415.388.3686
Originally they had thought about getting married in Brazil, where Sylvia’s mom is from. Then they considered Italy, where Sylvia’s dad
Caterer:
is from. They wanted a vacation destination where their families could
Domaine Chandon/Etoile
spend some time together but finally decided leaving the country would
restaurant
prove too difficult for some. The Napa Valley was perfect—a vacation
Cake: Domaine Chandon/Etoile restaurant Flowers:
destination close enough to home to accommodate everyone. “It was convenient on top of being romantic,” Jim says. Because it was a second marriage for both Sylvia and Jim, they
Tesoro Flowers
knew it would be family only. “We didn’t want to do anything like we
tesoroflowers.com
had done before,” Jim says. “We kept it very simple.” All told, nine
707.963.3316 Music:
family members attended the intimate ceremony in a small grotto at
Lawrence Strings
Domaine Chandon and then dined together at Etoile, the winery’s res-
aecwinecountry.com
taurant.
707.580.6065
But just because it was small didn’t mean they skimped on planning. The couple took two Napa minivacations to set things up, traveling from one end of the valley to the other, constantly running late in a jam-packed agenda as they searched for a location, tasted food and sought out the right hair and makeup stylist for Sylvia, who works as a costumer in Hollywood. But when they stepped out of the car at Domaine Chandon, they knew they had found their spot. “Sylvia’s whole demeanor changed,” Jim says. “She loved it right away.”
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Alexandra Magallanes & Marciel Rivera Muir Beach Community Center
A
s they arrived at the Muir Beach Community Center, each of the 7 5 guests received a small shell collected from the beach below. After a laid-back personal ceremony officiated by Alexandra’s uncle, the entire group walked down more than 1 0 0 steps to Muir
Beach to cast the shells, now representing wishes, back into the sea. Alex and Marciel, who met in college and were reunited ten years later at an outdoor concert, knew one thing when they began planning their April wedding: it would be near the beach. Both are surfers, cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts, and they share a love for all things wet and sandy. Alex, who grew up in San Anselmo, spent summer weekends at Stinson with her family and comes back to West Marin from her San F rancisco home every
Location: Muir Beach
chance she gets. Marciel, a native
Community Center
San F ranciscan, can often be found surfing in Bolinas or pedaling over Mount Tam on his days off. They chose the Muir Beach Community Center because of its location and its rustic, do-it-your-
muirbeachcsd.com 415.383.2359 Photographer: Suzanne Karp suzannekarp.com 888.450.8101 Caterer: Willow Camp Catering, 415.868.2452
self charm. They wanted a wedding
Cake: Just Desserts
that was relaxed and mellow with-
justdesserts.com
out any of the generic moments—
Invitations: Do-it-yourself
cake cutting, bouq uet tossing—that held no meaning for them. To this end they planned every detail them-
kit from Paper Source paper-source.com Music: Self-programmed playlists on an iPod
selves, from programming the music on their iPod to tasting more than 3 0 bottles of wine before deciding what to serve. Together with their friends and family they transformed the room into a warm and festive space, paying homage to Alex’s Mexican heritage with colorful paper flowers and papel picada. “Our biggest concern was that the day really represent us,” says Alex; their next priority was “delicious food and wine.” The day, which went off without a hitch, was truly uniq ue, from the personal vows to the late-night teq uila bar. But the best part was actually the long series of toasts—many of them unscripted. “E verything was perfect, but the toasts were the best—heartfelt, personal and funny.”
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H OME D E S I G N
AT HOME ON THE RANGE
Three local chefs with different cuisines and kitchens
STORY P. J. BREMIER PHOTOS BARBARA RIES
When adventurous palates meet imaginative chefs, magic ensues. And where the magic usually happens is in state-of-the art restaurant kitchens. What happens, though, when those chefs take off their toques and go home? Do they cook for themselves? What kind of appliances do they use? What are their favorite gadgets? And what guests would they invite over for dinner? Those questions were inspired by a recent visit to chef Farina Wong Kingsley’s new home kitchen in Tiburon. We posed them to Kingsley and to Roxanne Klein and Scott Howard, two other acclaimed chefs who live in Marin.
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The Cultured Chef: Farina Wong Kingsley aised in a traditional Cantonese
R
foot kitchen with granite countertops and
er Viking stovetop and deeper cabinets for stor-
fam il y in San F rancis co,
taupe hand-painted cabinetry has a gracious,
age of large platters and woks. Down the line,
Kingsley leads a life infused
California-contemporary style. During its re-
I would like to replace the Viking stovetop with
with both the culture and cui-
furbishing, Kingsley kept the existing stainless
either a larger Wolf or a Jade cooktop, both of
sine of China.
steel appliances, including a Viking cooktop,
which simmer at a consistent, lower flame than
Armed with a degree in East Asian Studies,
ovens and warming drawer, along with two
Viking. They also offer sealed burners that are
she studied Mandarin and completed culinary
dishwashers and an espresso center from
much easier to clean.
programs in the Bay Area and abroad, in-
Miele, and added a Kitchen-Aid icemaker, a U-
What are the top dishes that you cook at
cluding Tante Marie’s Cooking School in San
Line wine cabinet and a Sub-Zero refrigerator.
home? Thai curries, Asian-style dumplings of
Francisco, the Oriental Hotel Cooking School
Who was your cooking inspiration?
all kinds, and grilled marinated meats wrapped
in Bangkok and the Hong Kong Kowloon
My paternal grandmother from China, who
in banana leaves. I always try to experiment
Restaurant School in Hong Kong. She cooked at
taught me the foundations of Cantonese and
with unique fresh ingredients in authentic
the Shanghai Eating Club in Hong Kong and at
Shanghainese cooking.
Asian recipes, such as interesting greens, herbs
the Ritz-Carlton Dining Room in San Francisco
How does cooking at home differ from
or different cuts of meat.
cooking at work? Cooking at home is more
What would you serve at your dream
A cookbook author (Asian for Williams-
about convenience, being efficient with my
dinner party and whom would you in-
Sonoma) and a recipe tester and contributor
time and being able to watch my girls while
vite? I would serve stations of Singaporean
(to Nonna’s Kitchen, A Spoonful of Ginger and
preparing meals for my family.
street food from Laksa (such as curry noodle
under top chef Gary Danko.
Savoring Southeast Asia, among others), Kingsley
What are your kitchen essentials? Fresh
soup), assorted satay on skewers, wok-seared
is also a designer for her family’s two furniture
and dried ingredients from Clement Street in
chili crab and wonderful exotic fruits. My ide-
companies. She serves as Asian specialist and cu-
San Francisco, local farmers’ markets and my
al guest would be my paternal grandfather,
linary instructor at Tante Marie’s Cooking School
home vegetable garden in Tiburon; sharp knives;
whom I never met and who passed away long
and as consultant for the Center for Culinary
and a high-BTU stove with a powerful vent.
ago. He was an entrepreneur who traveled the
Development in San Francisco, where she devel-
What are your favorite kitchen tools or
world and started the ground transportation
ops and publishes recipes. Her two latest books,
appliances? My mini food processor, mortar
system in Macau, China. Also, Aung San Su
The Aqua Restaurant Cookbook and Food Made
and pestle, and double dishwashers.
Kyi, the democratic leader of Myanmar, and
Fast – Asian for Williams-Sonoma, will soon be in bookstores. Kingsley’s house, which she shares with
What is the best surprise of your kitchen? My pot filler faucet above my stove. It’s perfect for filling large pots and stir-frying.
husband Chris and daughters Sophia and
How would you improve your kitchen?
Lane, is in the Tiburon hills. The 700-square-
A large wok burner in addition to my six-burn-
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Nelson Mandela. What are your plans? I would like to continue to write food-related books, maybe something on Asian street food or how to create and cook from an Asian pantry.
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77
Raw Energy: Roxanne Klein hen Roxanne Klein
W
look, with white Carrera marble and stainless
Your favorite kitchen tools? A Blend
opened her innovative
steel finishes. Her appliances include a Miele
Tec blender, an Excalibur dehydrator, and a
restaurant Roxanne’s
dishwasher, a full-size and an under-the-coun-
Dremax electric Japanese vegetable slicer.
in Larkspur in 2001,
ter Sub-Zero refrigerator and a Viking stove.
What do you love about your home
she put the little town
Yes, the chef who made her reputation
kitchen? It is not the largest kitchen I have
back on the foodie map, much like Bradley
on raw recipes actually uses a stove at home.
ever had, but it is definitely my favorite. I love
Ogden had done earlier with the Lark Creek Inn.
“For the kids,” she laughs, referring to daugh-
the layout, the open shelving and especial-
Her raw (aka living foods) cuisine is based on
ters Ally and Raja. “I made vegan cupcakes
ly the setting. It gets lots of natural light and
fresh, local organic ingredients, primarily fruits,
for Halloween and my daughter just used
looks out at all the beautiful trees.
vegetables and nuts, which are transformed into
it to make crepes for her French class. The
How would you improve it? Maybe add
exciting dishes using little or no heat.
girls are vegan but I believe in a celebration
some more refrigerated drawers, some more
of food. I’m not going to tell them they can’t
seating, and yes, I would like a round-the-
have pasta.”
clock dishwashing person.
A graduate of the California Culinary Academy, Klein worked in some top San Francisco restaurants, apprenticed in French
What inspired your passion? Having
What food products do you like to use
Provençal kitchens and consulted with raw
grown up experiencing the lusciousness of the
at home? The farmers’ market is my biggest
foods pioneer Juliano Brotman before break-
seasonal produce grown on my grandparents’
inspiration.
ing out on her own. In 2003, she coauthored
organic farm. There is nothing like walking
What would you serve at your dream
Raw with famed Chicago chef Charlie Trotter.
into a garden and harvesting all the produce
dinner party and whom would you invite?
Klein’s restaurant, constructed and acces-
that is at its peak of ripeness, bringing it back
I would definitely create a menu that would
sorized with eco-friendly materials, reflect-
to my kitchen and letting those foods be the
be the ultimate sensual experience and invite
ed her environmental commitment, garnered
complete inspiration for the evening’s menu.
Don Juan, Carlos Castaneda, Johnny Depp,
international press and ignited a discussion
Such experiences are what I have drawn on to
Tom Robbins, the poet Rumi, photographer
within the culinary world about the raw foods
originate dishes that are expressions of the fla-
Gregory Colbert, fashion designer Margaret
trend. When Roxanne’s closed in 2004, it left
vors and textures of the season.
O’Leary, Chez Panisse founder Alice Waters
disappointed patrons. Klein, though, is back,
What’s essential in your kitchen? Sharp
and this winter is launching a line of raw
knives! And preferably Japanese. They’re es-
What are your plans? I want to contin-
foods-to-go named—what else?—Roxanne’s.
sential for creating beautiful food and tex-
ue to create new flavor experiences. Make my
and Charlie Trotter.
Klein prepares her home meals in a 500-
tures. A spice grinder to freshly grind all my
product line available nationally, then interna-
square-foot Mill Valley kitchen. Remodeled
own spices for the best flavors and aromas in
tionally. Write a new book. Enjoy every mo-
seven years ago, the kitchen has a clean, fresh
any dish. And a well-stocked pantry.
ment. Change the world one bite at a time.
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Finessing the Flavors: Scott Howard
U
complex flavor combinations and stylish
border of San Anselmo’s busy
taurant, and their two daughters, Zoe Rain
What shows up on your home menu
hub, quickly became a tour de force in the Bay
and Sophia Sky, he happily picks herbs from
most often? Soy products like miso and tofu,
Area’s best culinary circles.
the garden with daughter Zoe and cooks up
vegetables, and fresh pastas.
nder the accomplished di-
uids. At the restaurant, any liquid goes through
rection of chef-owner Scott
presentation.
the chinoise three to four times before it goes to
Howard, Fork, the tiny, so-
Residing in a Novato home he shares with
phisticated restaurant on the
wife Melissa, director of operations for the res-
Known for its California cuisine with clas-
family meals in a 300-square-foot space.
a customer. My cooking at home is more rustic. I just strain liquids once.
What’s the best surprise of your kitch-
sic French accents in a small-plate format,
His kitchen, vintage 1970, has an open-floor
en? The copper hood that is the centerpiece
Fork became one of Zagat’s most popular din-
plan warm Provencal colors, a General Electric
of our kitchen. I discovered it after I pulled
ing choices in the Bay Area and the vibrant fla-
oven and stove, a Jenn-Air refrigerator, and a
off the wooden box that was covering it up. It
vor combinations earned Howard rave reviews
Whirlpool dishwasher, and proves his motto
was the same feeling you’d get if you pulled
and the coveted “Future Star” accolade from
that “if you can cook, any kitchen will do!”
up a shag rug only to find tongue-and-groove
Gourmet magazine.
Who was your cooking inspiration?
cherrywood flooring underneath.
This Southern-born chef, who set his sights
Norman Van Aken, for his respect for the
What do you consider in terms of space
on a culinary career while still in high school,
products and the way they are grown, stored,
planning for either your home or profes-
was mentored at Miami’s famed Amano’s by
cooked and presented.
sional kitchen? When I look at a space, ev-
Norman Van Aken, considered the father of “new world cuisine.”
Name your favorite kitchen essentials.
erything—a water source, fire, disposal and
A cutting board, because it’s where everything
a space for cutting—has to be within hands-
From there, Howard established a name for
will end up; knives because they allow pre-
reach. That’s what’s great about a smaller-
himself as executive chef at several award-win-
cision; and extra-virgin olive oil. I can’t cook
sized kitchen: everything is right there.
ning Florida hot spots—Martha’s Tropical Grill,
without it.
Lure, and Mise en Place Market Bistro, where he amassed multiple “Best New Chef” awards.
How about your three favorite kitchen tools? A juicer. A panini press, which is great for
What’s next for your kitchen? We have plans for an outdoor wood-burning oven for summer parties.
Last year, he sold his four-year partnership in
quick grilled cheese sandwiches for my daugh-
Describe your fantasy dinner party. I’d
Fork and turned his attention to a San Francisco
ter. A little olive oil, cheese and artisan bread.
invite Roman Polanski and Robert Evans and
restaurant space formerly occupied by the
It’s quick, there’s no mess, and you can forget
serve pizza, roasted pork shoulder from my
Cypress Club. Here, Howard indulges his pas-
about it and it won’t burn. A chinoise (a fine-
wood-burning oven, seasonal vegetables, salad
sion for French technique, seasonal ingredients,
meshed conical sieve), which I use to strain liq-
and lots of wine.
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THAILAND ON TWO WHEELS Mountain biking in the Golden Triangle
2005
STORY & PHOTOS BEN DAVIDSON
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J OU RNE Y
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I
n the northernmost reaches of Thailand, near
the borders with Myanmar and Laos, lies the Golden Triangle, a region whose very name has been synonymous with intrigue and adventure and, in the not-so-distant past, secretive warlords and the opium trade. It was early F ebruary, in the depths of the cool and rainy Bay Area winter, when I flew to this hot and steamy land for an eight-day exploration of the Triangle’s junglelined valleys, snaking rivers and vast rice paddies. I was joining a group for an organiz ed biking trip; the agenda was to ride on q uiet country roads and dirt paths from town to town. We would round out days on the saddle
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with jaunts on sleek longboats down jungle rivers, rides
glimpses of the lush northern Thailand scenery. The tra-
by elephant-back to remote villages and treks on centu-
ditional Thai-style hotel, nestled on the shore of a lake,
ries-old paths to the hill-tribe communities of the Akha,
featured modest cottages crafted from teak and local
Karen, Lisu and Lahu ethnic groups. Along our route, we
stone. E ach had a balcony looking out on the surround-
would see ornate Buddhist temples tended by saffron-
ing mountains and forest.
robed monks and bustling markets abounding in intri-
That afternoon, we regrouped for a bike fitting and
cate artwork and flavorful cuisine. It sounded like the
decided to hike to a nearby H mong farming village.
adventure to top all adventures, a realiz ation of child-
Thailand’s third-highest mountain (7 ,5 0 0 -foot Doi Chiang
hood dreams of exotic travel in far-off lands.
Dao) dominates the Chiang Dao landscape and its forested hills provide ample hiking opportunities. That evening
Veer Left at the Banana Plantation
we enjoyed the first of many traditional (and delicious)
Clockwise from left: cyclists
We began our journey in Chiang Mai, a 1 3 th-century city
Thai meals, including som tom (a refreshing papaya sal-
pause outside an ornate
rich in monuments and famous for its night market. After
ad) and satay (barbecued chicken kabobs), all washed
Buddhist temple near the
meeting at the airport, our group of ten visitors and two
down with Thai iced coffee and Singha beer.
town of Chiang Saen; mas-
guides boarded a van piloted by a cheery local named Piak, our driver and interpreter for the week.
The following day, after breakfast and a route map review by our leaders, some of us opted for a mountain-
sive sitting Buddha on the route to Fang; Chiang Rai’s Meridien Baan Boran offers
The two-hour drive to the Chiang Dao H ills resort
bike ride and set out at our own pace, following a de-
a luxurious retreat in the
gave us a chance to get acq uainted and enjoy our first
tailed set of printed instructions. Directions such as “veer
heart of the Golden Triangle.
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85
FOCUS ON THAILAND Thailand is roughly the size of France, with topography ranging from beaches and islands in the south to rugged mountains in the north. Thai meals are generally served family style and almost always incorporate chilis, garlic, lemongrass, coconut milk, peanuts and curry. Most Thai men become monks for some period in their lives, usually as young adults, wherein they eat only once or twice a day,
left at the banana plantation” and “turn right at Doi Ngan
have few possessions and sleep in bare cells.
village” had me imagining holing up in a tribal village for
It is an honor for them and their parents.
the night, but they were reassuringly accurate through-
Spirit houses (phra phi) are erected in front of nearly every house and business.
This rugged region of rolling hills marked by lofty
spirits who live on the land happy so that
karst formations is dotted with Lahu hill-tribe villages.
they will not bring misfortune, are often
About 20 hill tribes live in northern Thailand; most have
decorated with flowers and offerings.
migrated from Myanmar and China over the past century
out Thailand in one of four basic posiClockwise from left: ele-
tions: reclining, standing, walking or sitting.
phants in Ruam Mit village,
The most common depiction is the seated
along the Maekok River,
Buddha, meditating with legs crossed and
port; young monks on the
the soles of the feet pointing upward.
road near their monastery
Thailand’s climate is ruled by monsoons,
at Ban Thaton; sunset falls
resulting in three seasons: rainy (June
over the jungle landscape
to October), cool and dry (November to
of the Golden Triangle,
February), and hot (March to May).
where Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos converge.
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long as we paid attention, that is!
These miniature temples, built to keep the
Buddha images are depicted through-
provide adventurous trans-
out this 17.5-mile ride and for the rest of the week—as
JANUARY 2007
and have retained their distinct language, religious beliefs, cultural practices, architecture and dress. About five miles in, we stopped at the Hoi Jakan Village, where both Thai and Lisu people live. Piak and our support van met us, offering water, snacks and any needed bike maintenance. We were surrounded by a throng of inquisitive, giggling schoolchildren and entertained them with inflatable balloons and a soccer ball we had brought along as a gift. Continuing past shelters, spirit houses (mini-temples erected in front of businesses and homes) and long stretches of seemingly uninhabited land, we would oc-
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Big Buddhas and Bustling Markets Leaving Chiang Dao, we began the third day (a 54-mile road ride) with a climb to the thousand-year-old trading center of Fang. About midway, a welcome downhill stretch through a sparsely populated area took us to the Tap Tao Buddhist caves, a tranquil oasis where monks pray and leave offerings in the site’s many Buddhist shrines. Continuing, we rode past grazing water buffalo, farmers working in rice and corn fields, schoolchildren
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It sounded like the adventure to top all adventures, a realization of childhood dreams of exotic travel in far-off lands.
Departing Thaton the next day, we gave up our bikes for a speedy ride on a narrow, six-person “longtail” boat down the Maekok River. After a few hours, we disembarked at the Ruam Mit Karen settlement for lunch and then clambered aboard elephants for a rollicking ride through the
reciting in cinderblock schoolhouses, an occasional gild-
hills to another small village, where Piak had delivered our
ed wat (temple) and bustling small villages, where we
bikes. We spent the rest of the day pedaling across a fer-
attracted more than a bit of attention. We weaved in and
tile valley to the modern high-rise Dusit Island Resort in
out of local traffic amid plenty of smiles and a cacophony
Chiang Rai, where a refreshing shower awaited.
of trailing “hellos!” Reaching our destination of Ban Thaton near the
The Apex of Our Adventure
Myanmar border, we settled into comfortable teak villas
Our last two days of biking brought us along the mighty
at the traditional Thai-style Maekok River Village hotel.
Mekong River, past tobacco fields and rice paddies to
Before dining at the riverside restaurant, we relaxed with
the bustling trading center of Mai Sai, the northern-
a stroll up to the enormous white Buddha that watches
most town in Thailand and a gateway to Myanmar. After
over town from a nearby monastery’s grounds.
ogling Burmese gemstones—mostly opals and jade—in
The following day, some of us got up around 4 a.m.
local shops, we continued on to our abode for the trip’s
for a stroll to Ban Thaton’s morning market, where we
last two nights: the luxurious Le Meridien Baan Boran
got a view of Thai life few tourists see. We sipped hand-
near the town of Chiang Saen. This resort, overlook-
filtered coffee and ate traditional breakfast snacks while
ing the confluence of the Ruak and the Mekong rivers,
arrives at the dock of the
strolling past row after row of produce, rice and other
is the apex of the Golden Triangle. After full but long
Maekok River Village Hotel
goods. My plan for the day was to join others in follow-
days on the road, we savored the slow pace and luxu-
in Ban Thaton; verdant
ing a dirt trail along the river to a point where we would
riousness of this superbly opulent hotel. At night, while
countryside and wooden
cross in a dugout canoe, then take an afternoon hike to
chuckling over some of the week’s adventures and high-
visit remote Lahu and Palong Villages. Others opted for a
lights, we enjoyed savory Thai cuisine and performances
day of lounging at the hotel with a good book and a cold
by traditional dancers and musicians, all while taking in
Chiang Rai in their colorful
drink. A fine choice, but I was here for the full cultural
the golden evening views of the Mekong and mysterious
hill tribe attire.
immersion and wasn’t going to miss a thing!
Laos and Myanmar beyond.
From left: a sleek longboat
bridges along a northern Thailand cycling route; two girls from the province of
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JANUARY 2007
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MAUI AWAITS Families, romance adventure and more…
BY M .L. LATHAN
M
aui, known as the Valley Isle, is the second largest of the Hawaiian chain. It is part of a four-island county including Lanai, Molokai and Kahoolawe. During the ice age, these islands were all part of the same landmass called Maui Nui, until the glaciers thawed, leaving only the highest elevations exposed. A more colorful account of the island’s formation comes from ancient
lore and involves a mythical “trickster” demigod, named Maui. One day, Maui, an excellent fisherman, pulled on his line, and brought up the entire chain of Hawaiian Islands with his magical fishhook. He then went to the top of the Haleakala volcano and lassoed the sun god La, forcing him to slow his journey and provide more hours of daylight and warmth. Today, Haleakala, a 10,023-foot shield volcano, is just one of the many attractions the island of Maui has to offer. In addition to hiking and exploring the landscape of this national park, bike tours offer a thrilling 38-mile downhill adventure with breathtaking views. Play golf? Maui boasts over 15 golf courses, with many of them topping the “World’s Best” lists. For active beachgoers, Maui’s windward coastline is an international windsurfing mecca attracting beginners as well as professional athletes. For those who prefer to swim with the dolphins or sea turtles, Maui offers miles and miles of accessible shoreline, including four marine preserves: Honolua Bay, Ahihi Bay, a portion of La Perouse Bay, and Molokini Crater. Because of the laws protecting these preserves there is an abundance of sea life and underwater wonders to explore. And for those preferring a less active beach experience, grab your beach towel, novel and sunscreen, and head for one of the black sand hideaways or one of the many long gracious stretches of white sand.
Haleakala volcanoe offers miles of trails for hiking
90
MARIN JANUARY 2007
Molokini crater
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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ich in natural beauty and resources
R
aeons of swirling water. After the sight-see-
Maui has been a favorite western trav-
ing, take a hike through the lush forest of
el destination for well over a century.
tropical plants and natural pools. Iao Valley
More recently, this tropical island was hon-
State Park, at the end of Iao Valley Rd,
ored once again by the editors at Conde Nast
Hwy 32, Wailuku
Traveler with their Readers’ Choice Award for Top Island in the Pacific Rim for 16 years in a
2 With a full tank of gas, a bathing suit and
row. “We think Maui is no ka oi (the best) and
music by “IZ” it’s time to head out on the al-
it’s great when others realize it too,” says Terryl
most 50-mile narrow stretch of road that
Vencl, executive director of the Maui Visitors
connects the small town of Hana to the rest
Bureau. “Maui’s majestic beauty, warm sand
of Maui. The tropical paradise is full of can’t-
beaches and diversity are reasons for winning
miss photo opportunities like Hookipa Beach
year after year. You have tropical landscapes,
Park (a windsurfer’s dream), Jaws (a mecca
romance, family fun, lots of activities and
for professional surfers), Twin Falls (a water-
breath-taking beauty all wrapped into one is-
fall pool) and Keanae (a last coastal enclave
land...called Maui.” That said, here’s a list of
of native Hawaiians). Hana Hwy
some of the most popular attractions.
PLACES TO VISIT
3 More than 1.3 million people a year ascend the 10,023-foot-high Haleakala mountain to
92
MARIN JANUARY 2007
the world’s largest volcanic craters. Hiking isn¹t
As the second wettest spot in the state, the
the only way to experience the view. Many
area can receive more than 400 inches of
drive up to the top to watch the sunrise; oth-
rain a year. However, the water isn’t what
ers either hike the miles of trials or opt for
keeps visitors coming back; it’s the 2,250-
the uniques experience of coasting down the
foot ‘Iao Needle. The natural rock pinnacle
the summit on a bicycle with special brakes.
that presides over the ‘Iao stream and was
Haleakala National Park, Hana Hwy to the
once used as a natural altar has survived
Haleakala Hwy (Hwy 37), Maui. MARINMAGAZINE.COM
M AP COU RTESY OF H.V.C. B
peer down into the Haleakala Crater—one of
1 Bring the umbrella to the valley of ‘Iao.
4 The offshore volcanic crater Molokini is
IO RESTAURANT Rated the top Maui res-
are inviting, while the menu with miso-
one of the top dive (and snorkeling) spots in
taurant in 2006, according to Honolulu
glazed tiger prawns and porcini-mushroom-
the world—and only a short boat ride off the
Magazine, IO restaurant features water-
dusted scallops is enticing. SeaWatch, 100
coast. The crescent shape of the crater al-
front dining in Lahaina and contemporary
Wailea Golf Club Dr (Wailea) 808.875.8080,
lows for protection from waves and ocean
Pacific Cuisine. IO restaurant, 505 Front St
seawatchrestaurant.com
currents while the area’s back wall drops to
(Lahaina) 808.661.8422, iomaui.com
depths of 300 feet. Inside is a diver’s para-
FERRARO’S The million-dollar view of
dise with a reef area allowing for 150 feet of
the ocean and the West Maui Mountains
clear views, an ideal spot to see the almost
KULA SANDALWOODS RESTAURANT On
is hard to beat, but the lobster risotto
250 species of fish that call Molokini home.
the way to Haleakala Crater, stop by the
and pizzas from the wood-burning oven
Molokini is a marin life park, talk to your
Loui family’s dining room for a hearty home-
come close. Ferraro’s at the Four Season’s
hotel’s conceirge for information
cooked meal made from scratch. The French
Resort, 3900 Wailea Alanui Dr. (Kihei)
toast with Portuguese sweet bread or coun-
808.874.8000
PLACES TO EAT
try omelets are sure to get you ready for the morning while the genuine service makes it
SON’Z MAUI AT SWAN COURT An extensive
HALI’IMAILE GENERAL STORE Slightly out
seem just like eating at a friend’s home. Kula
wine list (the cellar is the largest in Hawaii)
of the way from the resorts at Wailea, Bev
Sandalwoods Restaurant, 15427 Haleakala
and traditional foods prepared with a
Gannon’s rustic restaurant is worth the drive.
Hwy, (Kula) 808.878.3523
twist—like the “surfing” goat cheese ravioli
One of the original Hawaii regional cuisine
appetizer with corn and prosciutto—make up
movement chefs, Gannon uses fresh local in-
SEAWATCH For a more affordable dinner
the first class menu at Son’z Maui. Son’z Maui
gredients. Hali’imaile General Store, 900
in Wailea, try SeaWatch restaurant. The
at Swan Court in the Hyatt Regency, 200
Hali’maile Rd, (Makawao) 808.572.2666,
highceilings, paintings by well-known Maui
Nohea Kai Dr (Lahaina) 808.667.4506,
bevgannonrestaurants.com
artist Jan Kasprzycki and lush tropical plants
sonzmaui.com
1/2 HORIZONAL
No strings or roof attached.
General admission to the Polynesian Cultural Center
ADVERTISER Child admission to Hawaiian Waters Adventure Park
Escape to Hawaii! Every Budget rental comes with our exclusive coupons worth hundreds of dollars. Enjoy all your favorite attractions– FREE! Free admissions, food and activities around the islands. Ask about our daily and weekly specials.
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For Reservations, call 1-800-527-0700 or visit us at www.budget.com Subject to availability and change without notice. Refueling, taxes, state and government surcharges, concession fees, vehicle license fees and optional items are extra and are subject to change without notice. Normal rental requirements apply. One free gift from each Budget coupon program participant per set of Budget car keys and rental contract. Coupons are available at Budget.com. We feature Lincolns, Mercurys and other fine cars and trucks. ©2006 Budget Rent a Car System, Inc. A global system of corporation and license owned locations.
Child admission to Bishop Museum
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
MARIN JANUARY 2007
93
GO
FULL MENU ON MAUI BY ROBERT KAUFMAN
“G
ood morning, it’s 5 a.m. and it’s going to be
No backup alarm necessary. I’m up and eager to begin a new day
a sunny day with a temperature of 84 de-
in the land where the lava and the mai tais never stop flowing. Maui’s
grees.” My typical cranky response to such
enduring popularity with vacationers is tribute to its diversity of attrac-
a predawn wake-up call might be, “I’m no
tions. For those not bent on beach bumming, the challenge becomes
weatherman, but I could have told you
how to take advantage of the multitude of activities and cultural ex-
that.” However, before I can utter that comeback, I wake from my
periences available on the Valley Isle—from riding a bike down the
fog of sleep and realize the voice belongs to the concierge at the Four
10,023-foot dormant Haleakala volcano to an eco-adventure hike in
Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. Sweet aloha!
the rain forest to playing with the underwater natives of the Pacific. And the good news for Californians is they can board any transPacific commuter flight and, before they can say “humuhumunukunu kuapua’a,” be spreading SPF-30 on their (or their companion’s) sundeprived skin. On Maui’s dry and sunny south shore lies the master-planned community of Wailea, with multimillion-dollar homes, condos and plenty of upscale shopping. This 1.5-mile-long area is three times the size of busy Waikiki but has only five oceanfront resort hotels, a collection of multistarred properties that would be a prize catch on a Maui Monopoly game board. Leaving the luxuries of any one of these beach palaces is no easy task. However, Maui is about
Four Seasons Resort Maui
Maui Film Festival
discovery. I get my feet wet at daybreak by venturing out with Trilogy
Four Seasons Resort Maui golf course
Excursions on a snorkel trip to Molokini, an extinct offshore volcano that is home to more than 250 species of fish and giant sea turtles. During the winter, it’s a good bet the voyage will include a sighting of one of the 1,500 humpback whales that
94
MARIN JANUARY 2007
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
JOAN ALL EN PH OTO: ROBERT KAUFM AN
Joan Allen at the
THE VIEW: extraordinary
THE opportunity: extremely limited Located overlooking the distinguished Kapalua Resort, the gated community of Honolua Ridge commands sweeping views of rolling pastures, turquoise bays and the island of Moloka‘i beyond. These stunning agricultural homesites, ranging in size from 3 to 30 acres, create an uncrowded, unrivaled chance to own one of the last remaining pieces of West Maui.
For your personal tour to view Honolua Ridge and other prestigious Kapalua Resort properties, come to the Official Kapalua Experts.
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have the good sense to visit the Maui waters to mate and give birth to their young. Back by midmorning, I have a full plate of daylight available. I’m tempted to grab a cabana and plant myself on the beach. Not quite yet. The golf gods call. The Wailea Golf Club includes three courses: Blue, Emerald and Gold (my choice). Of this trifecta, the latter, with its rugged design winding through lava outcroppings and kiawe forest, provides the biggest test of a golfer’s mettle. In addition to hosting the annual Wendy’s Champions Skins Game in January, the Wailea Golf Club rolls out the red carpet and erects a giant movie screen for several days each June. As darkness falls, duffers give way to thousands of movie buffs who arrive with beach towels and blankets to watch movies under the stars during the Maui Film Festival. Over the last seven years, festival founder Barry Rivers and his wife, Stella, have blended their passions for Maui and movies to expand this event into a heavyweight contender
“The Largest Selection of Oceanfront Condominiums on the West Side of Maui”
on the film festival circuit, attracting celebs such as Patricia Clarkson, Joan Allen and Jake Gyllenhaal. Following my own humbling act on the fairways, I’m anxious to revel in celebrity-type pampering at my royal Hawaiian residence. Since I’m beyond the age limit for the Kids for All Seasons camp, my most logical move is to head poolside for some adult rejuvenating with a selection from the “Tapas” Spa Treatment Menu (mini versions of the indoor treatments offered at the Four Seasons spa). As the big orange globe melts into the horizon, a spectacular viewing chair awaits, as does a flashy tropical drink and pupu platter at the roofless Ferraros Bar e Ristorante, situated beachfront on the resort within earshot of the symphonic surf. Comedian George Carlin once reminded us, “Life is not measured by the breaths we take
Hale Mahina, Ka’anapali, Kahana Outrigger, Kahana Reef Mahana, Papakea, Royal Kahana, Valley Isle
1-800-367-6092 • www.chasenrainbows.com 96
MARIN JANUARY 2007
but rather by the moments that take our breath away.” As I lay my head down that night, I rest assured I’ll be blessed by more such moments when the sun rises again on Maui.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
SUSHI RAN Sausalito favorite for over 20 years BY ERIKA LENKERT PHOTO SASHA GULISH
“D
oes Sushi Ran need another review?” my dining partner asked me during a recent visit
to one of the Bay Area’s most revered restaurants. It’s true the Sausalito veteran, owned by Okinawa transplant Yoshi Tome, hardly needs publicity. As one of the only Marin haunts regularly on the tongues and credit card bills of San Francisco diners, the 20-year-old restaurant is perpetually full. (Likewise its newer sister wine bar next door serving 30 wines and 30 sakes by the glass alongside the same menu with a more limited sushi selection.) And I’m
and cucumber roll draped in seared albacore
and take it to delicate new heights that
betting most diners are like me: When it comes
tuna, topped with a vibrant tangle of fiery red
perfectly complement a light sushi meal. But
to sushi, I have such an extensive list of favor-
Japanese chili and surrounded by two puddles
many of Whitman’s creations are rich, deca-
ites there’s no reason to even read the menu
of soy sauce sweetened with brown sugar.
dent contrasts to the clean, pure flavors of raw
before ordering. Still, Sushi Ran’s five pages
Whether you sit at the bar or one of the
fish. Seared jumbo scallops topped with large
of raw fish and fusion cooking begs to be ex-
14 tables (in the front or in the slightly more
tufts of crab-cake-like “miso crab crust” are ac-
plored—and recommended—especially con-
spacious back room), another reason to stray
cented with spinach and creamy white wine
sidering some of the exciting new offerings.
from the usual is the Omakase sashimi plate.
sauce. Vietnamese shaking beef is the perfect
Anyone with a reasonable amount of su-
Introduced earlier this year, it features five raw
winter comfort food—tender chunks of medi-
shi-dining experience knows that if you sit at
fish selections chosen for seasonal perfection—
um-rare beef smothered in a deep, dark and
the sushi bar you can ask the chefs to make
in my case refined presentations of rudderfish,
velvety mushroom-soy sauce.
special creations that are not on the menu.
barbecued freshwater eel, classic maguro (tuna),
Further lifting this simply adorned restau-
Master sushi chef Mitsunori Kusakabe and
monkfish pâté and ocean trout. These are com-
rant above the Pacific Rim–influenced pack is
Garth Murakami, who preside over the front-
posed as they should be eaten; the chefs recom-
an award-winning wine and sake list. Grab new
room 16-seat bar bordered by small cramped
mend skipping the extra soy sauce and fresh
director of operations Thomas Bunker to help
tables, are no exception. With expert knife
wasabi (which here, incidentally, is infinitely
navigate the outstanding options and indulge
skills, an impressive selection of fresh fish
better than the typical reconstituted stuff).
in the desserts that go worlds beyond mochi ice
(some is flown in from Tokyo’s famed Tsukiji
Cooked dinner specials by Bay Area res-
Fish Market) and perfectly prepared rice (an
taurant veteran executive chef Scott Whitman
essential often overlooked by other establish-
make ordering even more of a tantaliz-
Sushi Ran, 107 Caledonia St., Sausalito,
ments), they often surprise adventurous din-
ing adventure. Scallop-chive dumplings and
415.332.3620, sushiran.com. Lunch Monday–
ers with creations made on the fly. During my
water spinach, bathing in a slightly tart soy-
Friday, dinner nightly; sushi and sashimi
last visit it was a gorgeous spicy crab, red tuna
vinaigrette, are a riff on shu mai dim sum—
$4–$16, cooked specials $6.50–$19.50
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MARIN JANUARY 2007
cream, and you, too, will find something new to say about longtime favorite Sushi Ran.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
À LA CARTE Openings… SALT HOUSE TAVERN (The trio from the immensely popular, Town Hall (SF) Doug Washington, and brothers Mitchell and Steven Rosenthal from Mill Valley, have opened a new hot spot on Mission between First and Second Street. Set in a former printing press, it’s now a 75-seat, contemporary tavern. “We love the idea of mixing the atmosphere of the traditional Londonesque gastro-pubs with our range of local, organic ingredients,” says Washington. Signature dishes will include crispy shrimp with spicy green beans and the menu ranges from raw bar items to heartier dishes. 545 Mission St, 415.543.8900 FARM Enjoy the wine country air at the alfresco lounge, featuring rich chocolate leather seats, extensive cocktail and wine list, and tasty bar menu. The main dining room (120-seats) is sophisticated yet comfortable. Executive chef Kimball Jones uses an in-house butcher and sources from local vendors. Items such as Sonoma lamb and ricotta ravioli, butternut squash-ginger soup with garlic cream and Hobb’s pancetta and scallions are familiar fare on the menu. The wine list is vast—interesting yet unexpectedly well priced. 4048 Sonoma Highway, 707.299.4882
Morsels… LEGAL AGE Ghiringhelli’s Pizzeria in downtown Fairfax has turned 21! Many local kids have dawned the official burgundy apron, as well as three generations of Ghiringhelli’s –Vinny G. is the official pizza maker these days. 45 Broadway, 415.453.7472 CHEESE WITH A PORPOISE Award winning Marin French Cheese Company will donate $1 to the Marine Mammal Center for every 24 ounce slice of cheese sold, including their top medal varieties like The Rouge Noir Triple Crème Brie and Marin Chevre Blue. For more information, 800.292.6100, marinfrenchcheese.com PIATTI EXPANDI Great news for those of us who have been turned away from Piatti’s on a crowded night, they are expanding their existing space. “After 12years Piatti Mill Valley will be updating its look with a complete one-month remodel starting in Spring ‘07” says Linda Salman, of Piatti, 415. 380-2525, piatti. com/millvalley —MT
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
Spectacular views of the San Francisco skyline, Angel Island and Tiburon. Since 1976, Gaylord has been rated among the top ten Indian restaurants worldwide. Zagat Restaurant of Excellence.
india
on the
bay
201 Bridgeway, Sausalito, California 94965 (Parking Lot at 2nd & Main Street) (415) 339-0172 • www.gaylords.com
MARIN JANUARY 2007
99
It’s 1/3 National Beef VERTICAL Short Ribs Month. I think.
INSIDER’S GUIDE
DINE OUT CORTE MADERA 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 non-carb entrées. 223 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.927.4400, ilfornaio.com
If not, I say we pretend it is anyway. Why? You are not going to believe this, but I just received the nicest shipment of beef short ribs I have ever seen during National Beef Short Ribs Month. Isn’t that just nuts? These beauties are straight from Kentucky and are just so darn tender I’m hugging my wife right now. So if you’re like most people across this great nation who are looking to their local meat guy, come to Bryans and buy
IZZY’S STEAKS & CHOP HOUSE American The legendary San Francisco steak house has moved north. Known for great steaks and seafood as well as it’s fine wine selection, this is a great spot for a group or intimate dinner for two. 55 Tamal Vista, 415.924.3366, izzyssteaksandchops.com LA MAISON DE LA REINE Vietnamese A refreshing change amid the plethora of Italian, Mexican and Chinese options in town. The crunchy cabbage chicken salad with peanuts, fresh spring rolls, and combinations of pho are delicious, and healthy. 346 Corte Madera Town Center 415.927.0288 PACIFIC CATCH Pan Asian This well-priced fresh grill concept–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. 133 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.927.3474, pacificcatch.com
LEFT BANK RESTAURANT French Known for award-winning French cuisine and its lively brasserie ambience, this corner spot has held court with the 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. 507 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.3331, leftbank.com PICCO California Chef and celebrated restaurateur Bruce Hill deserves the generous 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 YANKEE PIER This family-friendly casual clam shack is harbored in a quaint house built in 1924 as a private residence. Yankee Pier serves fresh seafood delivered fresh daily from both coasts for dishes by renowned chef Anthony Bowman. 286 Magnolia Ave 415.924.7676, yankeepier.com
MILL VALLEY 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. 15 Shoreline Hwy, 415.331.2600, buckeyeroadhouse.com
FAIRFAX
BUNGALOW 44 American Much like sister restaurant, Buckeye Roadhouse, Bungalow 44, offers a mean dose of homey carbo-and lipid-laden 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
LYDIA’S LOVIN’ FOODS Sustainable A cozy spot to enjoy raw, organic, vegan and vegetarian cuisine in the heart of Fairfax. Lydia proves that feeding people tasty food does not have to wreak havoc on our health or environment. 31 Bolinas Rd, 415.456.5300, lydiasorganics.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, 414.289.5777, frantoio.com
SORELLA CAFÉ Italian Not only is the food satisfying and tasty; the service is friendly and the ambience is warm and inviting. A plate of olives is presented before the meal and a colorful bowl of Gummi Bears is brought out once your dinner plates are cleared—nice touch. 107 Bolinas Rd, 415.258.4520
ORA Pan-Asian An inventive small and large plate menu mixed with an impressive wine list and inventive bar menu, including sake flights. Some favorites include Belgian endive cups, green papaya salad, and anything on the sushi list. It’s an easy place to pop in for a drink and bite to eat, but call ahead for large groups. 24 Sunnyside Ave, 415.381.7500. oramv.com
at least two large grocery sacks filled with moist, meaty and fall-off-the bone
“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
beef short ribs while its still January. National Beef Short Ribs Month. I think. Come buy everything.
Bryan’s Fine Foods Corte Madera Town Center
927.4488 www.bryansfinefoods.com 100
MARIN JANUARY 2007
LARKSPUR 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
INDIA PALACE Indian Know as “that great restaurant in the Travelodge,” India Palace is a favorite among the takeout crowd, however, eating veggie samosas, shahi khorma, or bhindi special (Okra) on site is a treat too. India Palace, 707 Redwood Hwy, 415.388.3350 MARINMAGAZINE.COM
PIZZA ANTICA Cal/Italian Light and delicious thincrust pizza with toppings like fennel, spicy sausage, bacon, pesto and goat cheese, as well as a variety of fresh green salads and entrees. Acoustics are an issue; otherwise, a great meeting spot. Strawberry Village, 415.383.0600
Ballet ~ Modern ~ Jazz ~ Tap ~ Musical Theater ~ Flamenco Belly Dance ~ Ballroom ~ Latin ~ Salsa ~ Argentine Tango ~ Swing
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 SMALL SHED FLATBREADS California As a slow food chef, Ged Robertson uses only local, mostly organic ingredients. Crowd favorites include the Mt. Tamal-Pie and delicious fresh salads like persimmon, pomegranate and spinach atop a light flatbread. 17 Madrona St, 415.383.4200, smallshed.com 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
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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. 106 Throckmorton Ave, 415.381.3343
(415) 339-1390 www.stagedor.com 10 Libertyship Way #340, Sausalito Faculty: Doree Clark – Ballroom Champion, Ingrid Serenne – Master Pilates Instructor, Caitlin Kolb – Joffery Ballet, Tanya Bello – Martha Graham Dance Company, Yoira Esquivel-Brito – SF Ballet, Saki Suto – SF Dance Center
NOVATO BOCA STEAK & SEAFOOD South American George Morrone, of Aqua and Fifth Floor fame, has been serving up an Argentinean-inspired menu in Novato with much ado. House specialties include provolenta, gambas al ajillo, empanadas, as well as hand-cut (grass- and grain-fed) steaks, 340 Ignacio Blvd, 415.883.0901, bocasteak.com KITCHEN American Restaurateur Henry Hautau teamed up with chef Christopher Douglas, who has worked at LuLu, Rose Pistola and Foreign Cinema to create an intimate 45-seat restaurant in downtown Novato. The menu offers items like orange-and-spice scented house-brined pork chop and star-anise braised short ribs. 868 Grant Ave, 415.892.6100, kitchen868.com
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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. 225 Alameda del Prado, 415.883.9125, wildfoxrestaurant.com
ROSS 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. 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 MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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SAN ANSELMO FORK California This intimate spot in San Anselmo was awarded a “Top Food in the Bay Area” designation by Zagats for 2007. Opt for the sevencourse tasting menu as well as tasty á la carte options, such as seared day boat scallops, warm beet salad and sunchoke risotto. 198 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.453.9898, marinfork.com INSALATA’S Mediterranean Award-winning chef Heidi Insalata Krahling opened her own spot in San Anselmo back in 1996. Her menu features Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes prepared with local organic produce and artisan meats. 120 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.457.7700, insalatas.com
SAUSALITO Introducing Prima Medical Group
CAFFÉ DIVINO Tuscan Sure, they serve up great coffee drinks in a funky one-room setting, but people also come for the tasty pastas and salads cooked up by chef-owner Mauro Dosolini. 37 Caledonia St, 415.331.9355, caffedivinosausalito.com
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GAYLORD INDIA Indian Rated as a “Restaurant of Excellence” by Zagat, Gaylord’s new location in Sausalito also features million-dollar views of San Francisco and the bay. All of 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. Everything on the menu—from the pad thai, to the BLAT; toasted sourdough with cheese, thick bacon, lettuce, tomato and avocado—is excellent, which is why this little one-room spot is always bustling. 3001 Bridgeway, 415.331.0390 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 SUSHI RAN Japanese Fresh, inventive 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 even 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
SAN RAFAEL SABOR OF SPAIN Spanish Named as Best Tapas/Small Dishes restaurant in Marin by the Pacific Sun in 2006, this bustling corner hot spot with a Spanish-only wine bar is a great place for a date or a big party. 1301 Fourth St, 415.457.8466, saborofspain.com 102
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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. 931 Fourth St, 415.456.2425, srjoes.com S E A F O O D P E D D L E R Seafood Don’t be fooled by this industrial location, the food is great. Fresh 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 can be hard to get into, but worth the wait. 732 Fourth St, 415.451.4765 SUSHI TO DAI FOR Japanese Getting 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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ROONEY’S CAFÉ & GRILL American If you’re old enough to remember Cheers on prime time, this 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 feeling in this one-room cottage dining room. 38 Main St, 415.435.1911
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ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY I SPORTS MEDICINE I SPINE CARE SERVINO RISTORANTE Italian With people like Warren Buffet and Bill Gates raving about his pepperoni pizza, Angelina 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. 9 Main St, 415.435.2676, servino.com 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. 27 Main St, 415.435.4527, samscafe.com 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 Dungeness crab risotto. 1651 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.5996, threedegreesrestaurant.com
WEST MARIN MANKA’S INVERNESS LODGE California Built in 1917 as a hunting lodge, this hotel/restaurant offers a different mulit-course, prix-fixe meal with ingredients from local purveyors Thursday through Sunday. 30 Callendar Way, Inverness, 415.669.1034, mankas.com MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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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 tasty and inventive combinations using regional and organic greens and artisan meats. 10000 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.663.9559, theolemainn.com 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. 1 Drakes Beach Rd, 415.669.1297, drakesbeachcafe.com
SAN FRANCISCO AME Pan Asian Situated 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. 689 Mission St, 415.284.4040, amerestaurant.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), floating orchids in towering glass vases…and possibly the most talked about design feature, the barely-there hostess uniforms. Voted as 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
com audience recently voted the eatery the best Mexican food and bar scene in San Francisco. 2317 Chestnut St, 415.376.1629, mamacitasf.com
FORBES ISLAND California Rent out the entire “island” (formerly a floating house) for a party, or head over with a date, to dine on organic pan-seared salmon, roasted pork rib chop or a variety of local vegetarian options. Pier 39 M-1, SF 415.951.4100
SCOTT HOWARD American The former chef/ owner of Fork in San Anselmo, Scott Howard packed his talent and moved it to the big city, in the former location of the Cypruss Club on Jackson Street. In 2006, SF Chronicle’s Michael Bauer put it on the “must-visit list” and people have obeyed in droves. 500 Jackson St, 415.956.7040, scotthowardsf.com
HAR R I S’ R E STAU R ANT Steak House This San Francisco institution has hosted local and international luminaries for nearly a century. Wine Spectator ranked Harris’ as one of the nation’s topten steak houses, 2100 Van Ness Ave, 415.673.1888 LARK CREEK STEAK Cali/French The most recent addition to Lark Creek Restaurant’s portfolio, this farm-to-table traditional American steakhouse offers a boutique approach to the old-time favorites such as a basket of crispy fried ipsqwich clams, tartar of beef tenderloin and red-winemarinated hanger steak. 845 Market St, 4th floor, 415.593.4100, larkcreek.com MAMACITA Mexican Known for its authentic Mexican cuisine and 100 percent pure agave tequila margaritas, this Marina restaurant has quickly become a local favorite. The Citysearch.
MYTH Cali/French Innovative cuisine by chef Sean O’Brian, formerly of Gary Danko, has made this one of the most popular spots in town. 470 Pacific Ave, 415.677.8986, mythsf.com
THE HELMAND Afghan Partially famous as the best Afghani food in town (not many choices) and partially famous for owner Mahmoud Karzai, whose brother is Hamid (as in president of Afghanistan), Helmand is a culinary adventure not to be missed. Meals start off with customary flatbread with dipping sauces and proceed to a spice-filled culinary tour of Afghanistan. 430 Broadway, 415.362.0641 QUINCE California Book a reservation at least a month in advance to get a seat at one of the 15tables 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
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CAL E NDA R
DECEMBER ARTS & EVENTS GUIDE COMEDY Tuesdays Mark Pitta & Friends You’ll have to see the show to find out who’s performing but it’s worth getting a chance to watch big-name headliners and up-and-coming comics work on new material. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.9600, 142throckmortontheatre.com Thursdays Comedy Slam Join host Debbie Campo of the San Francisco Comedy College along with other comedians for an evening of stand-up. SFCC has been compared to Second City in Chicago. Sam’s Cafe (Tiburon). 415.435.4527, sfcomedycollege.com Blame Sally performs its unique Americana pop show at Larkspur Cafe Theatre Jan. 20
MUSIC THEATER Thru 27 The Lion in Winter The story of King Henry II, Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine and King Richard the Lionhearted at their annual Christmas gathering. Belrose Dinner Theatre (San Rafael). 415.454.6422, thebelrose.com
1 Circus Center’s Holiday Show Stunning acrobatics combine with hip-hop to create this contemporary circus experience. Palace of Fine Arts Theatre (SF). 415.392.4400, 7fingers.com
nected by the disappearance and murder of a little girl. The play explores the effect of psychological damage on a person. Marin Theatre Company (Mill Valley). 415.388.5208, marintheatre.org
12–February 18 A Few Good Men A rookie Navy lawyer is assigned to defend two Guantanamo-based Marines who are on trial for the murder of a member of their platoon. The play raises questions about the meaning of individual honor, dignity and humanity in the military world. Ross Valley Players (Ross). 415.456.9555, rossvalleyplayers.org
4–February 4 The Circle Lady Kitty left her politician husband for a scandalous life with his best friend, 30 years later the exiled lovers come back into town, just as Kitty’s grown son Arnold’s marriage is in shambles. A.C.T. (SF). 415.749.2228, actsf.org
11–February 11 Frozen Nominated for four Tony Awards, Frozen is a haunting play about three people whose lives are conMARINMAGAZINE.COM
23–February 24 Legally Blonde The new Broadway musical tells the tale of sorority star Elle Woods and her Chihuahua, Bruiser. When Elle’s boyfriend dumps her for someone more serious, Elle puts down the credit card, hits the books and sets out for Harvard Law. Along the way, Elle proves that being true to yourself never goes out of style. Golden Gate Theatre (SF). 415.512.7770, shnsf.com
10–14 San Francisco Symphony Kurt Masur, who is known for his interpretations of the German Romantics, will be joined by young violinist Sarah Chang. They will perform Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 3 Scottish, Bruch’s Violin Concerto No.1 and Strauss’s Till Eulenspiegel’s Merry Pranks. Davies Symphony Hall (SF). 415.864.6000, sfsymphony.org
14 Schwabacher Debut Recital: David Portillo The 2006 Merola alumnus David Portillo will present a tribute to the late James Schwabacher, in a program of Schwabacher’s signature songs. San Francisco Opera (SF). 415.864.3330, sfopera.com 20 Blame Sally Recently back from Italian music festivals, San Francisco—based Renee Harcourt, Monica Pasqual, Jeri Jones and Pam Delgado bring their different musical backgrounds and distinctive voices together for a unique Americana pop show. Larkspur Café Theatre (Larkspur). 415.924.6107, larkspurcafetheatre.com MARIN JANUARY 2007
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28 & 30 The Marin Symphony Enjoy a world premiere by Latvian composer Peteris Vasks, as well as Mozart’s Symphony No. 35, “Haffner” and Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3, performed by Orion Weiss. Following the January 30 performance, meet the artists at the Tuesday night wrap party. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marinsymphony.org
28 Kariktan Dance Company This Concord-based group brings traditional dances and live music from the Philippines to Marin audiences. Bay Area Discovery Museum (Sausalito). 415.339.3900, baykidsmuseum.org
28 Zooz Dance Company Middle Eastern and North African dance collide with elements of belly dancing and contemporary dance theater. Bay Area Discovery Museum (Sausalito). 415.339.3900, baykidsmuseum.org
DANCE 13 Hungarian State Folk Ensemble Straight to Marin County from Budapest, the 80-member company features spectacular dancers, as well as traditional sounds of gypsy folk orchestra musicians. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org 19 RoCo Don’t miss this evening of progressive dance and entertainment for the entire family, featuring over 400 RoCo students of all ages and skills. Bay Area choreographers Annie Rosenthal Parr, Eric Fenn, Micaya, Gabrielle Thompson, Erica
GALLERIES MARIN Hangarian State Folk Ensemble performs at the Marin Center January 13.
Jeffrey, Daisy Stoloff, Suzanne Lappas, Tenaya Figueira and Alison De Oliveira will showcase their hip-hop, modern, jazz, ballet and break-dancing styles. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415. 499.6800, marincenter.org
Art Abloom Local Places, Local Faces Gabriella SpinaDrake exhibits recent oil paintings on canvas, thru January. 735 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo. 415.256.1112, artabloom.com Artisans Art Gallery Ongoing exhibits. 853 Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.460.5208, artisansartgallery.org
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Art Works Downtown The Edge of Abstract Juried by Dianne Romaine, this exhibition showcases artists who have explored uncharted territory in the realm of abstract art, January 11–March 2. 1337 Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.451.8119, artworksdowntown.org Claudia Chapline Gallery Mixed Media Art Garden sculptures, West Marin landscapes, erotic art by Harold Schwarm and work by Claudia Chapline, thru January. 3445 Shoreline Hwy, Stinson Beach. 415.868.2308, cchapline.com Donna Seager Gallery Ongoing exhibits. 851 Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.454.4229, donnaseagergallery.com Edith Caldwell Gallery Contemporary Tapestries Work by Alan Magee, Guy Diehl and Donald Era Farnsworth, along with Minimal Furniture by Brent Comber, thru February 14. 819 Bridgeway, Sausalito. 415.331.5003, edithcaldwell.com Falkirk Galleries Mixed Company: Collage and Assemblage This exhibit explores the
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many ways artists take objects and materials and translate them into art, thru January 6. 1408 Mission Ave at E St, San Rafael. 415.485.3328, falkirkculturalcenter.org Gallery Bergelli Ongoing exhibits. 483 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur. 415.945.9454, gallerybergelli.com Gallery Route One The Blue Paint Murder A murder has been committed at Gallery Route One and there’s evidence among the artworks. Gallery artists are asking the public to help with the investigation during the gallery artists’ group exhibition. Visitors to the gallery are invited to uncover the facts and help solve the mystery: is it the cold-hearted critic, the angry art collector or the devious dealer? Does every artist have a watertight alibi and who spilled the blue paint? Thru January 7. 11101 Hwy One, Point Reyes Station. 415.663.1347, galleryrouteone.org Marin Society of Artists Anything Goes A member show utilizing all media, January 7–January 21. 30 Sir Francis Drake, Ross. 415.454.9561, marinsocietyofartists.org
O’Hanlon Center for the Arts Annual Members Show This tradition dates back over 20 years, when O’Hanlon founder and teacher Ann O’Hanlon asked members and students to display their work each year for critiques and explorations. Work will be shown in the large O’Hanlon Center Gallery as well as the smaller Loft Gallery, January 2–January 31. 616 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.388.4331, ohanloncenter.org The Painters Place An Exhibit of Art Find the perfect holiday gift or check out fine work by gallery artists, thru January. 1139 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur. 415.461.0351, thepaintersplace.com Robert Beck Gallery Ongoing exhibits. 222 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo. 415.456.7898 Robert Green Fine Arts Ray Jackson and James Shay A two-person exhibit with new paintings, thru January 21. 154 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.381.8776, rgfinearts.com
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GA LLERIES
At left: Tjasa Owen, A Barn and Four Acres, 36”x48”, mixed media on canvas at Hang Art; below: Emil Lukas installation at Hosfelt Gallery
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FRESH STARTS BY ANNE CRUMP RAY
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an Francisco’s Hosfelt Gallery, in the city’s South of Market district, launches the new year with a pair of solo exhibitions by experimental artists whose work spans a variety of media. Recognized internationally for his thoughtful and inventive paintings, works on paper and installations, Emil Lukas makes his Hosfelt debut with a selection of stacked paintings. These towering piles of canvases emphasize his ongoing interest in material properties and artistic process, invoking an array of abstract imagery to create geometric columns that rise as high as six feet above the gallery floor. “These are complex, interlocking canvases,” says Hosfelt assistant director Jay Auslander, who notes that each painting is designed to be seen from all sides. To help viewers fully appreciate the works, the towers must be unstacked and restacked at various times throughout the exhibition (and on request). New photographs by Crystal Liu, a 2005 graduate of the San Francisco Art
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Institute’s master’s program in new genres, offer an intriguing counterpoint. Liu moves fluidly among a variety of media, inventing elaborate narratives that unfold as she works, often charting their own, unexpected courses. Both artists’ work is on view from early December through January 20. From January 27 through March 10 the gallery presents a collection of artist’s books by San Francisco–based photographer Michael Light. Known for his stunningly crisp large-scale prints, Light has created an assortment of one-of-a-kind photography books, including a volume showcasing some of his newest works: dramatic black-and-white aerial shots (some nearly 4 feet wide) of the Western landscape. The gallery hosts a public reception for the artist from 3 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, January 27.
rom January 11 through 30, Hang Art in downtown San Francisco fills its walls with new works by Tjasa Owen in a show titled From Here to There. An East Coast native based in San Francisco, Owen creates imagined landscapes inspired by travels in the United States and abroad. While the Atlantic coast fuels much of her aesthetic sensibility, many scenes evoke the hills and coastline of Marin. “Rather than documenting any actual place, I am more interested in reassembling the elements of scenes I remember— the way we do with snapshots and scrapbooks—to create views that feel shared and remembered,” she explains, and describes her pieces as “landscape postcards…By making paintings that feel like correspondence, I invite viewers to invent their own stories about the places I create in my work.” At Hang Art Annex during the same period, an exhibition titled Raw Material presents work by gallery artists Jeff Hantman, Judy Spiegel, Nicolas Van Kridjt and Tim Yankosky. The selection highlights the artists’ embrace of elemental materials in their raw state and features such components as metal, paper, wax and wood. Receptions for both exhibitions take place January 11 from 6 to 8 p.m. Hang Art, 556 Sutter St., San Francisco; 10–6 Mon–Sat, 12–5 Sun; Hang Art Annex, 567 Sutter St., San Francisco; 10–6 Tues–Sat, by appointment Sun–Mon; 415.434.4264, hangart.com
Hosfelt Gallery, 430 Clementina St., San Francisco, 415.495.5454, hosfeltgallery.com; 11–5:30 Tues–Sat; closed Sun–Mon
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Sam the Butcher Fresh Faces Student art, thru January. 19 Ross Common, Ross. 415.902.1019 Studio 333 A collection of works from over 25 local and Bay Area artists. 333A Caledonia St, Sausalito. 415.331.8272, studio333.info Toby’s Gallery Ongoing exhibits. 11250 Hwy One, Point Reyes Station. 415.663.1223 William Lester Gallery Teresa Dong New works by this artist, January 5–January 29. 11101 Shoreline Hwy, Point Reyes Station. 415.663.9365, williamlestergallery.com
SAN FRANCISCO ArtHaus Mixed Media Paintings Work by Marc Lambrechts, January 4–March 31. 411 Brannan St, 415.977.0223, arthaus-sf.com Caldwell Snyder Gallery Showcasing the vanguard of contemporary American, European and Latin fine art. 341 Sutter St, 415.296.7896, caldwellsnyder.com
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Elins Eagles Smith Gallery Mixed Media Paintings by Jennifer Bain, January 4–January 3149 Geary St, Ste 520, 415.981.1080, eesgallery.com
Gregory Lind Gallery Wabi Ranch Paintings by Jake Longstreth, thru January 27. 49 Geary St, 415.296.9661, gregorylindgallery.com
Fraenkel Gallery Nothing and Everything Drawing, painting, photography and sculpture from 1896 to 2006, thru January 27. 3049 Geary St, 415.981.2661, fraenkelgallery.com
Hackett-Freedman Gallery A Culture in the Making The gallery celebrates its 20th anniversary. More than 40 works by San Francisco and New York artists who helped reshape American culture in the 1950s and 1960s are featured. On display, January 11–March 3. 250 Sutter St, 415.362.7152, hackettfreedman.com
Frey Norris Gallery Ongoing exhibits. 456 Geary St, 415.346.7812, freynorris.com Gallery Paule Anglim Mixed Media Large scale charcoal drawings with mixed media on paper by James Drake and work by artist Tomas Nakada, January 3–January 31. 14 Geary St, 415.433.2710, gallerypauleanglim.com George Krevsky Gallery Faces and Places A group exhibition depicting familiar faces and places by gallery artist, including Jack Levine, Louis Lozowick, Raphael Soyer, Ruth Gikow, Glenna Putt and Maurice Lapp, thru January 27. 77 Geary St, 415.397.9748, georgekrevskygallery.com
Hang Art and Hang Art Annex From Here to There A new series of landscape paintings by Tjasa Owen, thru January at Hang Art. Raw Material Work by Jeff Hantman, Judy Spiegel, Nicolas Van Kridjt and Tim Yankosky, utilizing raw materials. 556 & 567 Sutter St, 415.434.4264, hangart.com Jack Hanley Gallery Ongoing exhibits including works from Jo Jackson, Harrell Fletcher, Christopher Garrett and Piotr Janas. 395/389 Valencia St, 415.522.1623, jackhanley.com
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John Pence Gallery American Masters Oil paintings, drawings and etchings by American artists, thru January. 750 Post St, 415.441.1138, johnpence.com Linda Saytes Ongoing work. Hunters Point Shipyard, Bldg 101, Studio 2120, 415.824.5756, saytesart.com Meyerovich Gallery 20th Anniversary Celebration Part II Contemporary Art Grisha Bruskin: Metamorphosis & Mysticism An exhibition of new paintings, sculptures and works on paper, thru January 10. 251 Post St, 415.421.7171, meyerovich.com Newmark Gallery San Francisco Introducing artist Anne Subercaseaux to the gallery, January 3–January 21. 251 Post St, Ste 412, 415.392.3692, newmarkgallery.com Paul Thiebaud Recent Paintings Work by artist Eileen David, January 2–February 24. 718 Columbus Ave, 415.434.3055, paulthiebaudgallery.com
Jeremy Thornton landscape painting at the O’Hanlon Center for the Arts
Rena Bransten Gallery New Sculpture Dennis Gallagher’s new sculptures utilize stacked geometric blocks in ways that bring to mind both classical ruins and appealingly functional contemporary household objects, thru January 13. 77 Geary St, 415.982.3292, renabranstengallery.com
Asian Art Museum Pioneers of Philippine Art: Luna, Amorsolo, Zobel The exhibit chronicles 100 years of Philippine painting, in 38 artworks from three groundbreaking artists, thru January 7 (SF). 415.581.3500, asianart.org
Legion of Honor Claude Lorrain—The Painter as Draftsman The exhibition incorporates works by Claude Lorrain from all stages of his career. The drawings and etchings represent the artist’s complete life work, ranging from his earliest known sketches to his final compositions and the famous Liber drawings, thru January 14 (SF). 415.863.3330, legionofhonor.org
COPIA Crush, Shoot and Savor: The Wine Photography of Sara Matthews An intimate interpretation of the winemaking process, thru January 29 (Napa). 888.512.6742, copia.org
Museum of Craft & Folk Art The Art of Gaman This exhibition demonstrates the human urge to create beautiful objects even while in dire situations, thru January 21 (SF). 415.227.4888, mocfa.org
de Young California Impressions: Featuring Landscapes from the Wendy Willrich Collection This show features 30 California landscape paintings from the collection of Bay Area art collector Wendy Willrich, the permanent collection of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco and additional loans. The show traces the evolution of California landscape painting from the Hudson River School style to plein-air Impressionism and finally to the colorful style of the Society of Six, thru January 28 (SF). 415.863.3330, thinker.org/deyoung
SFMOMA Anselm Kiefer: Heaven and Earth The first American survey of Kiefer’s work in almost 20 years, this exhibition features more than 40 paintings, sculptures, books, and works on paper created between 1969 and the present, thru January 21. New Work: Phil Collins The British artist new series centers around his 2005 video Dünya Dinlemiyor (The World Won’t Listen), which features young people in Istanbul singing along to tracks from the 1987 album of the same name by the British group the Smiths, thru January 21 (SF). 415.357.4000, sfmoma.org
di Rosa Preserve Recent Acquisitions An exhibition of artworks recently purchased by Rene di Rosa, thru January 6 (Napa). 707.226.5991, ext. 26, dirosapreserve.org
YBCA Sensacional! Mexican Street Graphics Explore the vernacular design of comic books, flyers, posters and signs common in Mexico, thru March 4 (SF). 415.978.2787, ybca.org
MUSEUMS MARIN Bolinas Museum The Miniature Show Over 85 local artists show works that are no larger than six inches, thru January 7. John Kouns, in the photography gallery, thru January 7. To Wear An exhibition of wearable art, thru January 7. 48 Wharf Road (Bolinas). 415.868.0330, bolinasmuseum.org Marin History Museum A Life Surrounding a Cabin: Dorothea Lange at Steep Ravine This never-before-exhibited series of intimate family portraits and landscapes by Lange— who is best known for her WPA images documenting the Great Depression—explores the last years of her life. Marin Community Foundation Offices (Novato). 415.464.2500 110
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FAMILIES/KIDS MARIN Thru 7 Your House, My House Check out homes from around the world including a Mongolian herder’s ger, an m’bure from the tropics of Fiji, and a stilt house from a Malaysian fishing village. Bay Area Discovery Museum (Sausalito). 415.339.3900, baykidsmuseum.org
Thru 15 Youth Campaign The Environmental Education Council of Marin is asking local middle school and high school students to create slogans that will educate local residents and businesses about their contribution to global warming and simple steps they can take to stop it and reduce their energy consumption. Two lucky students will each receive an award of $50 and their schools will each receive $150 for educational purposes. EECOM (Marin). 415.485.4908, eecom.net
Finally A Place to Party in Marin after 10pm With celebrities, no less. Now there’s a party to be had after every Marin Symphony concert. Come hear our glorious music, then meet the artists who make it happen. SUNDAY CONDUCTOR’S CLUB Fine wines and lavish fare await symphony-goers in the Green Room after Sunday concerts. Single tickets ($25 per person) available through the Symphony office, 415.479.8100. TUESDAY NIGHT WRAP PARTIES Join us immediately following Tuesday concerts as the Maestro, guest artists, orchestra members and staff debrief after the night’s invigorating performance. No host bar at Four Points by Sheraton Lounge – just minutes away from the concert hall.
13–February 25 World on Stage The Bay Area Discovery Museum, in partnership with the San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival, presents traditional performances from around the globe. Bay Area Discovery Museum (Sausalito). 415.339.3900, baykidsmuseum.org
16 The Wright Brothers Get inspired as you learn the facts of Orville and Wilbur’s history-changing quest through song and humor. During this musical performance, a half-scale, 20-foot wingspan model of the original flyer will be assembled. Showcase Theater, Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.457.4878, youthinarts.org
19 Pajama Night Let the kids have fun with pizza, art projects, games and stories while the parents have an evening off. Doodlebug (San Anselmo). 415.456.5989, doodlebugmarin.com
PROGRAM
Three
Sunday, January 28, 2007, 7:30pm Tuesday, January 30, 2007, 7:30pm Alasdair Neale, conductor Orion Weiss, piano VASKS Sala (Symphonic Elegy for Orchestra) Magnum Opus World Premiere MOZART Symphony No. 35, “Haffner” RACHMANINOFF Piano Concerto No. 3 Tickets $27, $50 and $65 on sale now Marin Center Box Office 415-499-6800
Solo timpanist Tyler Mack and composer William Kraft
B AY A R E A Thru February 4 Dinosaurs: Ancient Fossils New Discoveries Journey back in time as you explore life-size models of dinosaurs. On-site palentologists are happy to discuss the latest dino research. California Academy of Sciences (SF). 415.321.8000, calacademy.org MARINMAGAZINE.COM
w w w .mari n s ympho n y.o r g MARIN JANUARY 2007
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WINE COU NTRY
1 Math and the Night Sea The exhibi-
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TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE OFF SEASON Celebrate mustard in Napa and fresh crab in Mendocino BY LUCAS DAVIDSON
J
anuary is the quietest month in wine country, which makes it the best time to visit for an unhurried day or two of tasting and dining. Lodging and restaurant reservations are much easier to book, the roads and parking lots are uncrowded, and you can pretend you’re traveling back to an easier time before California wine became such an attraction. In fact, January can be so quiet in wine country that the various chambers of commerce, winery associations and tourist bureaus created a number of midwinter events specifically to liven things up. Napa Valley’s Mustard Festival (707. 944.1133; mustardfestival.org) is a case in point. The event is spread out over three months with a variety of offerings at multiple venues, but the organization’s website lays it out in comprehensible detail. The festival gets off to an elegant start with a grand opening called Mustard Magic, January 27 from 7 to 11 p.m. It’s a formal fantasy evening with excellent wine, food by some of the valley’s best chefs, dancing and two auctions of trips, fine art and more. The setting alone—the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone in St. Helena—is worth experiencing if you haven’t already. Greystone is a gigantic stone castle that started its life in the 19th century as a cooperative winery and commands a great view of the valley just north of St. Helena on Highway 29. Partygoers can stroll through candlelit spaces filled with art, eat and drink to their appetite’s content, and take a turn on the Barrel Room dance floor. Tickets are $100 a person before December 29, $135 after December 29 and $175 at the door. For its own big off-season festival, Mendocino County plans a party around its native culinary resource of Dungeness crab. Crab season usually begins before the holidays and is in full swing by January; at the eighth annual
MARIN JANUARY 2007
Mendocino Crab and Wine Days festival December 26 through February 28 (866. GOMENDO; gomendo.com), visitors can dine on crab prepared a multitude of ways at local restaurants, or climb aboard a crab boat at Noyo Harbor and see how fishermen harvest the crustaceans. Back at the harbor, the crew cooks the catch on the dock, and you’ll taste the freshest crab in the world while sipping a bright Anderson Valley Riesling or Chardonnay. Wine alone is enough inspiration for a January celebration in the Russian River Valley, where dozens of boutique wineries make handcrafted Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in the rolling, secluded landscape of northwestern Sonoma County. In the 15th Annual Winter Wineland event (800.723.6336; wineroad.com) the weekend of January 13 and 14, some 100 wineries normally closed to the public will be accessible from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Three photography exhibitions this month in the Napa Valley are also worth special mention. The quietly impressive Napa Valley Museum in Yountville has a show on winery architecture opening January 19 (707.944.0500; napavalleymuseum.org) that uses contemporary and historical images to reveal the evolution of winery design in the valley. At COPIA in the city of Napa, the globetrotting Sara Matthews of Brooklyn displays the cream of her crop of unusual vineyard photography through January 29 in an exhibition called Crush, Shoot and Savor (888.512.6742; copia. org). And for people like me who never tire of Ansel Adams’s art, his work is again on display in a fabulous setting at Mumm Napa (707.967.7700; mummnapa.com) on the Silverado Trail in Rutherford through March 11. The exhibit includes 100 photographs taken along the John Muir Trail in the Sierra by Adams and other noted artists, including Galen Rowell.
tion features two large-scale mechanical mobiles, the Copper Square Wave and the Round Wave, which combine mathematics with nature. Exploratorium (SF). 415.397.5673, exploratorium.edu
EVENTS Tuesdays and Thursdays Doodlebug Knitting Night Learn the basics of crocheting or felting, expand basic knowledge and try something new with fellow enthusiasts. Doodlebug (San Anselmo). 415.456.5989, doodlebugmarin.com
1 Artists Needed for Pins of Marin Big Brothers Big Sisters of Marin and Napa Counties are calling all artists to participate in Pins of Marin. Adopt a bowling pin to transform into a work of art. The pins will be auctioned off at the Bowl for Kids’ Sake Kickoff Party. Big Brothers Big Sisters (Marin, Napa). 415.453.3800, ext. 229
8, 22 & 29 Coral Reef Caretaking Watch as an Academy biologist suits up in diving gear to care for the reef’s inhabitants. A second biologist will be on hand to answer questions. California Academy of Sciences (SF). 415. 321.8000, calacademy.org 11 Pins of Marin Don’t miss this art reception and kickoff to the Bowl for Kids’ Sake event, which benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters of Marin and Napa counties. Rafter’s Grille and Brewery (San Rafael). 415.453.3800, ext. 229 11–14 International Sportsmen’s Expo Get the 2007 sporting and fishing season off to a rousing start. Exhibitors representing hunting lodges, fishing lodges and adventure outfitters from around the world will be present. San Mateo County Event Center (San Mateo). 650.574.3247, sportsexpos.com 12–14 SF Rod Custom and Motorcycle Show Some of the world’s coolest cars, under nine roofs. Cow Palace (SF). 866.270.1955, rpprodinc.com 13 International Rubik’s Cube Competition Come watch the world’s greatest solvers of the Rubik’s Cube compete for the fastest times under improbable circumstances. Past MARINMAGAZINE.COM
LECTURES/WORKSHOPS ONGOING Writing Mamas Salon A warm, encouraging and supportive place for members to talk about motherhood and writing. Well-known authors make special guest appearances; check website for schedules. Book Passage (Corte Madera). 415.927.0960, writingmamas.com
12 Carol O’Connell The crime-author talks about her newest book, Find Me, a story of love, loss, death and discovery. Book Passage (Corte Madera). 415.927.0960, bookpassage.com
Don’t let this opportunity get away. Head to the International Sportsmen’s Expo in San Mateo.
competitions have created world records. Exploratorium (SF). 415.561.0360, exploratorium.edu
17 Marin Scuba Club Come listen to guest speakers discuss all aspects of diving using multimedia video presentations. Social events include club picnics, holiday parties and campouts. Seafood Peddler (San Rafael). 415.453.9556
17–April 2 One Book One Marin Marin County pubic libraries have teamed up with Book Passage, the Marin History Museum, Friends of Libraries and others to promote the reading of Isabel Allende’s, Daughter of Fortune. The event aims to encourage the building of community through shared experience. Several events will occur throughout the county at libraries and community centers. Various locations (Marin). 510.839.3100, onebookonemarin.org
21 Marin Bridal and Party Showcase Meet and ask questions of wedding professionals all under one roof. See the latest trend in nuptial fashions and don’t miss the honeymoon giveaways. Embassy Suites (San Rafael). 415.897.9939, creative-occasions.com
24 San Francisco Ballet Opening Night Gala This elegant black-tie gala and fundraiser includes cocktails and dinner in City Hall followed by a dazzling one-time-only MARINMAGAZINE.COM
performance by America’s oldest professional dance company. This year’s theme, “Spanish Splendor,” evokes the sophisticated luxury of a Spanish villa. City Hall (SF). 415.553.4658, sfballet.org
24–26 Winter Market 2007: Celebrating 35 Years of Design Don’t miss out on a variety of trade and public events, including a gala exhibit opening party, silent auction, design author roundtable discussions and more. Galleria Atrium, San Francisco Design Center (SF). 415.490.5800, sfdesigncenter.com 27 Luxury Nights Enjoy beverages and hor d’oeuvres as you get a peek at the latest fabrics from the Heimtextil Show in Frankfurt. A portion of the proceeds from purchases will benefit Zero Breast Cancer Foundation. Duxianna (San Rafael). 415.459.0365
27 Bay Area Environmental Education Fair Hikers, bikers, teachers and budding environmentalists will find something to pique their fancy at this annual event. Over 100 exhibitors and workshops for educators and parents highlight the day. The event provides information on the latest in classroom materials, environmental education programs, field trip sites, conservation techniques, wildlife education and personal discovery. Marin Center Exhibit Hall (San Rafael). 415.499.6400, baeerfair.org
17 Barbara Ehrenreich In her bestselling investigation of American poverty, Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting by in America, Ehrenreich described her attempt to live on low-wage jobs. She will appear in dialogue with Linda Schact of the Graduate School of Journalism at UC Berkeley. Herbst Theatre (SF). 415.392.4400, cityboxoffice.com 18 Jonathan Franzen This National Book Award winner will be in conversation with San Francisco Chronicle writer Steve Winn. Franzen’s latest book is The Discomfort Zone: A Personal History. Herbst Theatre (SF). 415.392.4400, cityboxoffice.com
NATURE WALKS/TALKS ONGOING Sonoma History Local actor George Webber morphs into Samuel Clemens, aka Mark Twain, as he retells the history of Sonoma through Twain’s eyes; specific dates on website (Sonoma). 707.694.5097, georgewebber.com
28 Fantastic Fungi Bring the whole family to Point Reyes for a fun day of learning about the fascinating world of fungi. What are spores, mycelium and fruiting bodies? How do mushrooms obtain energy and grow? With games, stories, hands-on activities and a habitat search, learn what fungi are and practice distinguishing among the basic groups (Point Reyes). 415.663.1200, ptreyes.org MARIN JANUARY 2007
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Whether traditional or contemporary your kitchen will be designed for function, yet remain as individual as you are. Please call for a FREE in-home kitchen design consultation ~ Serving Marin for over a decade ~ 1219 Harrison Street at 8th Street, San Francisco www.cabinetsandbeyond.com . 415.863.5550 Showroom Hours: 10am - 6pm Mon - Fri & 11am - 5pm Sat. Also by appointment.
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ECLECTIC
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Marin’s Finest Consignment Shop Manolo Blanik Jimmy Choo Prada Chanel Gucci Hermes St. John …and more
Open Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm Consignments Taken Tues - Sat 10am - 3pm (415) 456-7309 • 11 Mary St., San Rafael (next to Peets)
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Branching Out
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adl i b
MARIN ADVERTISERS SPEAK UP
Penna Omega Rims & G oggles, sunglasses and prescription eyewear, Strawberry V illage
Cyril Vanbatten and Patrick Bornemann
Susan Snyder
M editerranean Colors, green design wall fi nishes, Sausalito
Caldwell Snyder G allery, contemporary international and A merican art, San Francisco
“We have the largest selection of sunglasses and
Mediterranean Colors is a group of talented ar-
Located in the heart of Union Square, Caldwell
prescription eyewear in Marin County,” confident-
tisans specializing in green design wall finishes
Snyder Gallery offers a unique presentation of
ly claims Penna Omega, owner of Rims & Goggles.
such as decorative plasters, lime washes, frescoes,
international and American contemporary art.
With a focus on high-end fashion and exclusive
murals, stucco finishes, and friezes. From concep-
“Since 1983,” says co-owner Susan Snyder, “my
lines unavailable elsewhere, Rims & Goggles’ staff
tion to completion, we coordinate styles, colors,
business partner, Oliver Caldwell, and I have of-
has a combined industry experience of over 57
and textures for interior and exterior walls.
fered quality art and have worked extremely hard
years. “We pride ourselves on our craftsmanship, expertise, and customer service,” adds Omega.
to stay on top of the current art market.”
Briefly describe your business philosophy. Façades ought to be decorated with adequate
What makes your work worthwhile?
Describe your business philosophy.
materials so that they can last longer; buildings’
Helping collectors reach out and discover the art
In its simplest terms, our formula for success
occupants ought to breathe better indoor air qual-
that best suits their lifestyle and home environ-
is this: Huge Selection + Fashion + Excellent
ity so that they can live healthier.
ment. Artwork is very personal—and I enjoy connecting art with the individual.
Craftsmanship + Superb Customer Service = Rims & Goggles.
Which product or service is your favorite? The renovation of a stucco façade with a lime-
Describe your dream client.
What is your competitive advantage?
based finish. A natural binder, lime shows mottled
One who is collecting numerous works of art by
We’re able to find unique and exclusive frame
effects, reflective qualities, and a resistance to sun
the artists we represent. Especially if it’s a collec-
lines that are at least six months ahead of what’s
rays unlike no other coating material.
tor with multiple homes, who may want paintings from the same artist in different homes.
being sold here in the United States.
What makes you excel at what you do? What part of the business is your favorite?
Our clients’ vision is our inspiration. This trans-
My parents started the business over 33 years ago
lates into finishes that are tailored to their very
Five years from now, what changes will your business have experienced?
and later launched the Rims & Goggles eyewear
own tastes and lifestyles. They enhance our sens-
Next year, we’re opening a gallery in the Napa
line. Now I’m traveling to our factories in Paris
es of well-being, safety, and productivity.
Valley, in St. Helena, which will allow us to repre-
and Italy to continue expanding our line.
sent more artists’ works to offer our clients.
PHOTOS: SHERI MONTGOMERY
What makes your work worthwhile? From a business standpoint, who is your inspiration?
Our finishes are made of natural, mineral mate-
What is your competitive edge?
rials that are toxic-free. Thousands of people die
In business 24 years, we have the knowledge and
No question: my mother. All that we do here is for
each year from indoor air-pollution-related illness.
opportunity to present talented mid-career artists.
her legacy to live on.
It’s time to move to something better! Caldwell Snyder Gallery, 341 Sutter Street,
Rims & Goggles, 606 Strawberry Village,
Mediterranean Colors, 10 Liberty Ship
M i l l Va l l e y, C A 9 4 9 4 1 , 4 1 5 . 3 8 3 . 9 4 8 0 ,
Way, Sausalito, CA 94965, 415.331.3886,
rimsandgoggles.com
medcolors.com/design, showroom by appointment
ADVE RT IS IN G P R OMOT ION
San Francisco, CA 94108, 415.296.7896, caldwellsnyder.com, open Mon–Sat, 10 am–6 pm
M I C R O CLI MAT E
INCREDIBLE INVERNESS West Marin town exudes history and charm. BY JIM WOOD PHOTOS TIM PORTER
T
he directions to the West Marin hamlet of Inverness are simple: Take Sir Francis Drake Boulevard. That’s it! It’s that easy. Pick up Drake Boulevard at Highway 101, head west through Greenbrae, Fairfax and San Geronimo Valley, jog right for a mile at Olema, and then Sir Francis Drake reappears and goes right through cozy Inverness.
But don’t drive through Inverness. Depending on the time of day, stop for a fresh-from-the-oven
pecan sticky bun at Busy Bee Bakery; maybe have a pizza from Priscilla’s Pizzeria; or if it’s dinnertime, when did you last enjoy Czechoslovakian food? For over 45 years, Inverness has been home to Vladimir’s, Marin’s one and only Czech restaurant. All three eateries are easy to find; they’re smack dab on Sir Frances Drake. But if you’re searching for the community heart of Inverness, that may take some looking. Some will say it’s Manka’s Inverness Lodge, a 1917 former hunting retreat half a mile up Argyle Street that’s now a world-renowned dining destination with nine rooms for overnight guests (Prince Charles and Camilla stayed there in 2005). “We love Manka’s,” says Sydne Bortel, who along with her husband, Allan, has lived part-time in Inverness since the mid-1990s. “That’s where we connect with people; other than that we stay pretty close to the house.” Year-round locals will tell you the heart of Inverness is its barely 1,000-square-foot, 7,000volume public library at 15 Park Avenue. “Around here, the library is pretty much ‘it’ when comes to a community facility,” remarks Kerry Livingston, an Inverness resident of over 30 years. That said, “facility” might not be the word that best describes the building itself. “It was once a home known as The Gables,” adds Kerry’s husband, Dewey, a respected West Marin historian. “It was built in 1893 by From left: historic building in the center of Inverness; abandoned fishing boat on Tomales Bay; the Inverness Yacht Club
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Alexander Baily, one of the original settlers, and it’s the oldest substan-
like few you’ve ever visited. “As we say, we sell oddities and deities,” says
tially built home in town.” Adjacent to the library is Jack Mason Museum,
owner Nonnie Welch. Her shop’s rare wares include colorful scarves, ac-
currently showing a collection of Inverness photos (curated by Livingston)
cessories and jewelry from both the Far East and West Marin, along with
taken in 1906, the year of the great earthquake.
Tibetan devotional paintings known as thangkas and statues of Kwan Yan,
A third nomination for community heart of Inverness comes from
the bodhisattva of compassion. As for deities, the store’s front yard has a
Elisabeth Ptak, who lives in town but works for the Marin Agricultural
wide variety of Buddhas of all shapes, sizes and materials, as well as one-
Land Trust (MALT) in Point Reyes Station. “I think Tomales Bay repre-
of-a-kind garden furniture and fountains.
sents the heart of Inverness,” says the 35-year resident. “We see it every
Also available in a variety of shapes and sizes—and prices—is
day, we walk beside it, some swim in it, many sail on it, and we visit
Inverness real estate. “We recently cracked a barrier,” says rental agent
Chicken Ranch Beach and look across Tomales Bay and enjoy beautiful
William Barrett with nearby Stinson Beach’s Seadrift Realty. “A nearly
views of Elephant Mountain.”
new property with four bedrooms, a pool, spa and waterfall, on three
Other than that, life in Inverness is a tad on the quiet side—which
‘manicured acres,’ came on the market for $3.5 million.” Adding to its
is what many if not all residents prefer. The Bellwether, a country store
allure is the address: “It’s on North Dream Farm Road,” Barrett notes
with tasteful clothes, gifts and art objects, is next to the post office
with a laugh. “Don’t you just love the sound of that?” As for the other
and across Drake Boulevard from the Inverness Store, a grocery and
extreme, he cites one recent listing: “Home in very poor condition, was
deli still recovering from the floods of early 2006. But don’t confuse
built in 1923 with two bedrooms, one bath, on a small lot.” Its price?
quietness with conformity. From a retailing standpoint the community
“Try $319,000,” Barrett replies. “It’s a good example of what ten times
boasts two decidedly innovative businesses—one purveying an austere
your money will bring you.” Life in Inverness has much to offer.
aesthetic, the other dealing in more exotic goods. “Our furniture is strictly from the Shaker tradition, which exemplifies simplicity and utility,” says Tom Williams, who with his wife and son has operated Shaker Shops West on Inverness Way for more than 30 years. Along with accessories (even Shaker herbs), the family markets Shakerinspired bedsteads, cabinets, tables, and rockers—available assembled or in kits. All the merchandise is displayed a showroom that during the First World War was the home of Attilio Martinelli, another original settler of the area. Two miles south on Drake Boulevard in Inverness Park, is the home of Spirit Matters, a store
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Clockwise from upper right: Nonnie Welsh, owner of Spirit Matters; interior of Manka’s Restaurant, a favorite dining destination for Marin County gourmands, Jillian Kehoe at the Busy Bee Bakery offers freshbaked croissant for a morning breakfast treat.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
Judy LeMarr 415-380-4642 jlemarr@fhallen.com www.marindreamhome.com
FRANK HOWARD ALLEN REALTORS Marin’s oldest real estate firm
Service Experience
Results OPES/opés/ • n./latin for wealth
Jeffrey T. Smith Melanie Victor-Smith 101 Larkspur Landing Circle Larkspur, CA 94939
(415) 464-9500 Palo Alto • Marin • San Mateo
opesadvisors.com MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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Happy New Year! Jimmy and his team would like to wish you and yours a Happy New Year and the best of luck for 2007. Pictured above are some of our upcoming new listings. If you are thinking about buying or selling in the next year please give Jimmy and his team the opportunity to represent you in your transaction. Jimmy’s marketing, networking and, of course, 24/7 energy level are just what it takes to get ahead in an evercompetitive real estate market. Please note all of our current listings at www.JimmyMarin.com.
REAL ESTATE KNOWLEDGE YOU CAN TRUST
Jimmy Wanninger 415.990.8990 24/7 Check out the Mt. Tam Cam at www.JimmyMarin.com
New Listings
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ne of the most coveted addresses on Belvedere Island. This WATERFRONT 4BD/3.5BA property commands 180° views from San Francisco to Mt. Tamalpais. Wraparound decks. Easy water access. An endless opportunity to enjoy Belvedere and the San Francisco Bay! Offered at $3,195,000 • www.41westshorerd.com
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his stylishly remodeled, approx. 5000’ Tiburon home has stunning S.F. and GG Bridge views and a wonderful indoor-outdoor flow. 4BD/4.5BA, extra large family room and level lawn. PLUS a legal 1BD/1BA in-law unit. Coveted Reed School District. Offered at $3,595,000 • www.11rosevillect.com
Offered exclusively by:
Theresa Coleman 415/609-4532
theresacoleman@comcast.net
The Fine Art of Fine Property
*UST A FEW MINUTES NORTH OF THE 'OLDEN 'ATE YET A MILLION MILES AWAY IS 3EADRIFT AT 3TINSON "EACH &OR OVER YEARS 3EADRIFT #OMPANY HAS BEEN THE EXPERT IN 2EAL %STATE SALES AND PREMIUM VACATION RENTALS IN 3TINSON "EACH AND THE PRIVATE GATED COMMUNITY OF 3EADRIFT #ALL US TODAY TO RESERVE YOUR BEACH HOUSE FOR A WEEK A SUMMER OR A LIFETIME
Ask about our Special Winter Rates! 6)%7 /52 02/0%24)%3 /.,).% !4 777 3%!$2)&42%!,49 #/- !.$ #!,, 53 !4
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VISION REAL ESTATE GROUP — 1ST ANNIVERSARY
67 Hermit Drive, Kentfield
950 Lake Street, San Francisco
709 Nevada, Sausalito
221 Van Tassel Court, San Anselmo
5 Sunset Lane, Mill Valley
7 Treetop • 227 W. Blithedale • 761 Atherton • 1225 Lattie Lane • 314 Las Flores • 4 Malvino • 7 Locust • 114 Del Casa • 6027 Shelter Bay • 21 Valleystone • 358 Ethel • 305 Prospect • 221 Van Tassal • 375 County View • 2 Mohawk • 80 Clemente • 2 Vista Del Sol • 94 Sycamore • 56 Mooring • 160 Oak Springs • 5 Sunset Lane • 4 Old Landing • 1099 California • 29 Meadow Hill • 11 Idalia • 351 Riviera • 59 Lochnivar • 438 Park Place • 260 Bretano • 90 Saint Thomas • 2298 Paradise • 58 Pizarro • 235 Oakdale • 304 Silvio • 217 Deborah • 656 Santana • 43 Laurel Grove • 23 Tan Oak • 110 Daryl • 867 San Anselmo • 945 Via Casitas • 400 Marin Center • 14 Walnut •
THANK YOU! “Because of you, in our first year we have become one of the largest brokerages in Marin County. Thank you for your confidence and loyalty. We feel privileged to serve such an amazing group of clients!”
Ronald Parks, Founder Vicky Brodsky Nick Cooper Victor Fisher Erica Fong Shannon Howard Paul Kaehler Leah Karp Justin MacNaughton Barbara Major Erythean Martin
Liz McCarthy Jack McLaughlin Pam McLaughlin Cheryl Meisner Gary Myers Teena Nelson Devon Nuno Paula Stetler Victoria Wilson Cindy Wise John A Zeiter, Jr.
D I A LO GUE
Elaine Petrocelli
BY MIMI TOWLE
You could live anywhere. Why Marin? We raised our four children here. I love the natural beauty and the people. This is one of the few places that hasn’t been totally ruined by big box stores. What makes you happy in Marin? When I walk out of my little office to the Book Passage patio, see customers and authors who have become friends and look up at Mount Tam, I realize how lucky I am. What gets on your nerves here? Traffic! Traffic! Traffic! What’s your personal idea of luxury? A great novel and a rainy day to read it without interruption. What do you value every day? I feel lucky to have a wonderful family, 75 colleagues at Book Passage who are wild about books and a community that values what we do.
A
l Gore, Courtney Love, and Lemmony Snicket have at least one thing in common. They have recently had events at Book Passage Bookstore in Corte Madera. Why? “We’re a sure thing—our custom-
What person has influenced you the most? My grandmother lived with us when I was a teenager. She had always worked, yet she had a life filled with good friends and family. The night before she died, she told me to marry Bill, and that’s the best advice I’ve ever taken.
ers will buy their books,” says cofounder Elaine
Petrocelli. In 30 years of running Book Passage, Petrocelli and her husband/business partner, Bill, have enhanced Marin’s literary community—as booksellers; through Book Passage University where writers have been edified, inspired and motivated to become pub-
What’s been the most fulfilling moment in your work? I love it when people who have been students in our classes and conferences write to tell me about becoming published. We recently celebrated our 30th anniversary and over 30 authors spoke about the influence Book Passage had on their careers. That was fulfilling.
lished, and as community supporters. A recent event with Barack Obama netted the Marin Education Fund approximately $30,000, the Book Passage anniversary extravaganza benefited the Marin Literacy Program, and to show compassion beyond Marin, Amy Tan, a Book Passage regular, rallied fellow authors Isabel Allende, Khaled Hoisseni, and Dave Eggers, among others, to raise over $40,000 days after hurricane Katrina struck New Orleans. In a typical week, Book Passage will host between one and four author
What’s a Marin stereotype that works? People joke about Marin as a hotbed of experimentation. Actually it’s true, but not in the way our critics portray us. We are open to new ideas and that’s part of what makes Marin such a perfect place for creative people to live and work. What’s your desert island book or album? I’d take House of the Spirits, by Isabel Allende. I love all her books, but this one changed my way of thinking about storytelling.
readings a day. Petrocelli plans and attends events, gives speeches, and appears on radio and TV, all while running the day-to-day business. How does she do it? “I don’t do any of this alone,” she says. “We are all passionate about books here, which makes it a pleasure
Do you have a favorite Marin view? My favorite view is from high on Mount Tam. I like it best when the fog is crawling over the top of the city and the Golden Gate Bridge. It looks like an illustration for a fairy tale.
to come to work every day.” Speaking of coming to work, one can’t help but wonder how this independent bookstore will fare given the big-name media retailer opening in a nearby mall. “It’s up to the community,” she says with a smile. “I think that Marin is unique, and our customers are showing us that they want us to be here.” 130
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How do you want to be remembered? I hope my grandchildren remember me as the Nonna who read to them, played with them and unconditionally loved them. As for my work, if Book Passage continues to be an important part of Marin, that will be a great way to be remembered. MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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