Play with artificial intelligence, explore how it works, and debate its future. Interact with surprising art, make music with AI, and more— plus enjoy 700+ hands-on exhibits for all ages.
Summer is here....It’s time to Smile!
From subtle enhancements to complete smile makeovers, I specialize in creating natural-looking, beautiful results. Whether you’re dealing with worn teeth, past dental work, or just ready for a new smile—I’m here to help.
With over 30 years of experience, my focus is on subtle perfection—creating smiles that look effortless, healthy, and completely your own. Let’s make this your season to smile with confidence.
Three
We
IN MARIN
17 Currents
New In Town, Sharks, Bastille Day, Vern Glenn and more.
22 First Person
“How to live longer better” by Eric Verdin, CEO/ President Buck Institute.
26 SubCulture
72 Calendar
Mad about Mahjong, the tilebased game is having a big moment in Marin. OUT & ABOUT
A roundup of what to do in Marin and beyond.
77 Dine
An insider’s guide to dining and food in the Bay Area.
84 On the Scene
Snapshots from events around the county.
MARIN HOME
89 Backstory
Creative license; Mill Valley home is awash in color and character
Enjoy the best of Monterey on Cannery Row
Natural wonders abound in Monterey, and there simply is no better place to experience it all than with a stay on Cannery Row. Known for it’s picturesque charm and colorful history, guests to this fabled street can enjoy a unique combination of luxurious waterfront hotels, enticing restaurants and captivating boutiques. Come, slow down and enjoy the best of Monterey on Cannery Row.
InterContinental The Clement Monterey
Schooners
Exceptional care for women never stops.
At Sutter’s Novato Community Hospital, we provide trusted expertise for every stage of your life. We specialize in minimally invasive gynecologic treatments and surgery for post-menopausal pain, fibroids, heavy bleeding, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, uterine prolapse and more. At Sutter, our whole team is on your team.
sutterhealth.org/womenshealth
PRESIDENT / OPERATIONS
Nikki N. Wood nwood@marinmagazine.com
Editorial
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Mimi Towle
DIGITAL EDITOR
Jessica Gliddon
DIGITAL ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Emma Robertson
DEPARTMENT EDITORS
Lotus Abrams, Donna Berry Glass
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lotus Abrams, Lynda Balslev, Jennifer Gennari, Donna Berry Glass, Alison Loomis, Mimi Pinson, Eric Verdin, Jim Wood, Ann Wycoff
INTERNS
Merritt Brinckerhoff, Quinn Edington
Art
ART DIRECTOR
Ryan Mastalerz
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
Alex French
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
R. Brad Knipstein
COVER
Courtesy of Post Ranch Inn
Administration
CONTROLLER
Maeve Walsh
Co-Founders
Jim Wood,
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MEDIA DIRECTOR
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SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER
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WELLNESS FOR ALL
IT'S JULY IN MARIN , which means lots of downtown parking (any town except maybe Sausalito), no school traffic and some dreamy long summer days to fill with activity (pickleball anyone?). It’s also our annual wellness issue, with a focus on healthy aging — which in Marin is like speaking to the choir. It’s a challenge to come up with content that you all don’t already know, but I hope this month we’ve got a few fun surprises, like did you know Sausalito has a new floating sauna? Oyster reefs are being considered to combat sea level rise? Mahjong is not only trending here in Marin, but staves off dementia. If you did know these things, don’t worry, we’ve added many more fun facts in the following pages that we hope can improve your day, mood or cholesterol score. On the topic of wellness, I’m not sure if there is anyone on the planet as informed on the topic of longevity as the Buck Institute Research on Aging’s Eric Verdin, who has been president and CEO of this Novato facility since 2016. Starting in the next issue, we’ll be sharing “news you can use” from the Buck, so the entire county can benefit from this research. For the first time in a while, I got to dust off my keyboard/pen and participated in two different articles focused on wellness. It was the reset (kick in the rear) that I needed healthwise and hope
the info can inspire you as well. One of our longtime contributors, Ann Wycoff, and I went to a spa in Palm Springs, where chewing was discouraged, as a metabolic and digestive reboot, we went together for a long weekend and left with an arsenal of tips and tricks shared on page 66. Another big treat was meeting up with Post Ranch Inn’s founder Mike Freed, who has led his team in creating the ultimate California wellness space for more than 30 years. I’ve been wanting to visit this property for years, and am happy to report it was beyond my expectations. These two destinations will be part of our kick-off of the Local Getaways Guide to California Wellness on page 28. Speaking of Local Getaways, you will be seeing more of our cross promotions in the coming months, which includes travel content, tips and promotions, but we are also rolling out a Local Getaways travel concierge program, starting with Hawaii, offering unique luxury experiences, dare we say bespoke, created by island locals.
Regarding travel, we’d love to hear from you about where you bring your family and friends when visiting Marin, to be featured in next month’s travel department. Please send an email to Emma at erobertson@270-media.com.
INTERN SPOTLIGHT
This summer, we are thrilled to have Merritt Brinckerhoff and Quinn Edington join us here at 270 Media to learn the ins and outs of the publishing world including; WordPress, Slack, Trello as well as email outreach and writing. If you have a Best of the County business that would be appropriate for including a perk in our soon to launch Marin Magazine app (restaurant, service, shopping), you will likely connect with one of them.
Join us for a red-carpet evening celebrating the premiere of Calligraphy Napa Valley, formerly The Watermark. Step into the spotlight and indulge in chef-curated cuisine, artisan cocktails, and captivating entertainment inspired by the golden age of Hollywood. Experience the community for yourself — from four new Savour Culinary restaurant venues to our immersive VivaLife sm Enrichment Program and Vivre Wellness sm Services . Every detail reflects the art of senior living, brought to life through striking design, bespoke experiences and personalized services. It’s distinguished living, elevated with cinematic flair.
CURRENTS
‘n Dip
NEW IN TOWN
BY MIMI PINSON Shop
Mill Valley Mercantile welcomes new ownership with the leadership of Kelly Scott, owner of The Goods in Mill Valley, and Suzanne Gray, partner in the former Seager Gray Gallery. millvalleymercantile.com
For timeless treasures, as in cool vintage finds, check out The Marin Merchant in Sausalito. themarinmerchant.com
Eat & Drink
Troya Tiburon is serving up dolmas, shakshuka, lamb meatballs and more from their new restaurant in the Cover Shopping Center. @troyasanfrancisco
Same digs, new name. VIN on Fourth Street has dropped the “Antico” with a refreshed menu and space. vinon4th.com
Bastille Day
IN MARIN, the second Sunday of the month means a petite taste of Paris. The French Market Marin, created by Fern Loiacono in 2011, draws attendees from near and far to browse clothing, decor and treasures from over 140 vendors.
This July, this French market comes one day before French National Day. Just as Americans celebrate the Fourth of July in red, white and blue, so too do the French for le 14 de juillet — called Bastille Day in English.
We caught up with Loiacono about this month’s market, happening July 13 from
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
What inspired you to create The French Market Marin?
The atmosphere of the famous Paris flea markets, where I once shopped for antique dolls. I envisioned bringing that same ambiance and charm to Marin with a vintage and antique market, complete with French cafe-style music, delicious crepes and a diverse array of vendors.
Why antiques?
Antiques are a connection to the past, a tangible link to history, offering a glimpse into
Beauty & Wellness
Moonstone Skin & Body Care welcomed a new owner, Susannah Nation, this past spring. The entrepreneur and Novato resident takes up the business’s mission to provide natural, noninvasive skincare solutions. moonstoneskincare.com
Work & Play
A coworking space made by and for women, The Hivery has re-opened in a new location on Miller Avenue in Mill Valley. thehivery.com
Say hello to Slime Kitchen , a spot in Corte Madera where visitors can get creative while mixing their own custom slime. It’s handson, promotes sensory learning and is sure to be a fun experience for families and kids. theslimekitchen.com
different eras, cultures and lifestyles. Owning an antique is like hold ing a piece of history in your hands.
Any special plans for July’s market?
Mais oui! Vendors are encouraged to display French flags and Eiffel Towers in booths, live French music, French pastries and crepes being made to order. We encourage all attendees to dress in French red, white and blue and don a beret. Très chic! MP
WELLNESS IN YOUR POCKET
BY QUINN EDINGTON AND EMMA ROBERTSON
There’s no time like the present to make healthy lifestyle shifts, and no better pocket-sized personal guide than your own cellphone. Use the age of digitization to your advantage with these convenient, locally-based wellness apps that’ll keep you right on track.
Olive
Free, in-app purchases available Based in San Francisco’s Marina district, Olive allows you to scan the barcode of your favorite food product in exchange for an in depth breakdown of seed oils, detected toxins and a processing profile. You can also use Olive to find clean, nontoxic and healthy food alternatives for you and your family.
Calm
Free, in-app purchases available Calm is based in San Francisco and is a popular option that provides a customizable mindfulness experience at the click of a button. Explore their offerings like wellness expert narration to nature montages and guided meditations, all designed to diminish stress.
Strava
Free, in-app purchases available Yet another SF-based app, Strava can track your activity stats during any hike, run or bike ride, giving you better insight into your own wellness habits so you can better learn how to improve them. You can keep an eye on your speeds, times, elevation changes, heart rate and more.
THE SPINE GUY
The next time that ache returns in your back and you’re not sure why, YouTube-famous and Marin-based Brian Su — also known as The Spine Guy — might have a video that can help.
Su has amassed over 4.7 million views and 78,000 subscribers on YouTube with his educational videos. They aim to teach the basics of spine anatomy and anything from imaging to treatment options for the spine-related medical concerns people might frequently have.
He currently works as the co-medical director of spine surgery at Marin Health Medical Center in Larkspur. –E.R.
Love the glam of Saturday night, but live for natural beauty? So does Chloe Fineman.
Our longtime friend and patient, actor and comedian, Chloe Fineman, stuns on the red carpet but off-stage, she embraces subtle, natural-looking results.
At HVME, we don’t chase trends we create them. Everything we do is tailored to enhance your natural features with personalized attention and expertise. Because the “make-under” isn’t just the moment it’s the future of beauty.
HOW TO LIVE BETTER LONGER
BY ERIC VERDIN, MD
Still in my biking gear, I had just finished up a 20-mile ride when I got the word — I was going to be a grandfather. The cognitive dissonance wasn’t lost on me.
I thought back to when my son Regis — the now deliriously happy father-tobe — was born. My dad, 60 at the time, looked like what I envisioned a grandpa was supposed to look and act like: a bit overweight, sedentary and, well, slow. That wasn’t me!
The juxtaposition in my mind got me thinking about how starkly different my
father’s 60s were from mine now, and how I got here.
Nobody wants to get old but, as they say, it is a privilege not afforded to everyone, my father included. My dad suffered his first heart attack at age 57, followed by a heart bypass, another heart attack, bladder cancer and finally lung cancer which took him away from us too early at age 77. What my father experienced as the later years of his life are unfortunately not the exception but the rule for many of us. During the last 150 years, we have been given many extra years. In fact, our
life expectancy has doubled. However, this longer life is most often accompanied by a slew of diseases, the chronic disease of aging: heart attacks, stroke, cancer, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, osteoporosis, macular degeneration, type 2 diabetes. These diseases degrade the quality of our lives during our later years and are imposing an increasing financial burden on our already strained social security systems.
I was determined not to have this fate. I wish I could say that I have followed great habits my whole life but well, I was young once too. I did smoke in my 20s and, having grown up in Belgium, I have more than occasionally overindulged in chocolate, beer and French fries!
I’m sure we’ve all done some things we wish we hadn’t. The good news is, it is never too late to adopt a healthy lifestyle. You can influence both your lifespan (how long you live) and, more importantly, your healthspan (your healthy years of life). This distinction is critical. I give talks all over the world and I love to ask my audiences for a show of hands to the question “How many of you would like to live to be 120?” There are typically only a few hands that go up. Then I ask “How many of you would like to live to be 120 if you could retain the same mental and physical abilities that you had in your 40s and 50s?” Suddenly all the hands in the room shoot up.
There may not be a sure-fire way of hitting 120 but there are some concrete steps you can take that, carefully controlled scientific studies show, can increase your healthspan by 10 to 15 years. In fact, most of us could expect to live to 90 or 95 in good health once “optimized.” I will be outlining some critical steps to reach this goal in this column in the months to come. Since I follow them, I can tell you from experience you won’t miss any of the bad habits because you will feel so much better. Need more inspiration? You don’t have to swear off that glass of wine you enjoy with friends or the occasional rich dessert. There’s an old joke about the man who lived a life totally focused
Three generations of Verdin men
on maximizing longevity to the exclusion of everything else. It was said that he wouldn’t live forever, but it would surely seem that way. That’s not what I’m aiming for here.
I am delighted to share the incredibly exciting field of research on aging with you. For now I will leave you with two bits of good news. First, your longevity is primarily in your control. Research shows that genetics are far from destiny; in fact only 7% of our aging journey can be attributed to genetics. A full 93% of how we age is determined by lifestyle factors like diet, sleep, stress, physical activity, social engagement and mental stimulation. Second, we live in the most long-living county in the state. Marin, with its beauty, its nature and its abundance, also offers us a leg up on healthy living. The county is of course also home to the largest independent scientific research institute in the Bay Area, and the first institute in the world to focus solely on the biology of aging: the Buck Institute.
I began my scientific career focused
At the Buck, we firmly believe that we can enjoy life — with sound mind and sound bodies — at 95 as we do at 45.
on metabolism and diabetes at Harvard Medical School and spent many years studying mechanisms of epigenetic regulation (more about this in a future column!), first back east at the National Institutes of Health and the Picower Institute in New York and then here in the Bay Area at the Gladstone Institutes and UCSF. It was there that my work led to a fascination about aging and its mechanisms. When I was offered the opportunity to lead the Buck Institute in
2016, I jumped at the chance.
When the Buck opened its doors back in 1999, research on aging had just undergone a dramatic transition with the discovery of unique biochemical pathways that controlled the aging process. These discoveries highlighted the possibility that aging could one day be modulated using drugs and other interventions. These predictions have been largely validated, and today, research on aging is one of the most exciting fields in all of the life sciences. The Buck Institute was clearly ahead of its time then, and this pioneering tradition is continuing today. Since we opened our doors, the scientific understanding of aging has evolved dramatically, shifting from a fatalistic view where aging was seen as an inevitable slow decline to one where we see aging as a malleable process that can be altered, slowed and perhaps even reversed.
At the Buck, we firmly believe that we can enjoy life — with sound mind and sound bodies — at 95 as we do at 45. We do not believe that growing old means growing sick. Aging is the number-one risk factor for the chronic diseases of aging as described above. Up until now, we’ve treated these diseases as if they were independent occurrences, a process that I have called “whack-a-mole medicine”: successfully treat someone’s cancer, only for them to suffer a heart attack, or get someone’s diabetes under control only for them to face the ravages of Alzheimer’s disease. The “geroscience hypothesis” initially proposed by Buck scientists suggests that by targeting the biological processes of aging itself, we might be able to delay the onset of many age-related diseases simultaneously. In simpler terms, if we focus on slowing down the aging biological clock, we might prevent not just one but a multitude of aging-related issues at once. It is no wonder I look forward to coming to work every day!
By the way, my grandson Niall turned 1 this past February and is now walking. I can hardly wait to get him a bike in a few years. We’ll see if he can keep up with me!
Dr. Verdin, far right, with his dad and siblings
DA-DUM, DA-DUM, DA-DUMMM.... IT'S HERE!
BY MIMI PINSON
EARLY JULY IS A TIME OF NATIONAL CELEBRATION.
Sure, there’s the Fourth of July, but it’s also time for Shark Week, when we humans scare ourselves with stories about megalodons and shark tornadoes. This year marks the 37th annual must-see, weeklong TV viewfest hosted by the Discovery channel.
But not all sharks are scary. In fact, these oft-maligned fish are better thought of as friendly neighbors than foes, since most pose minimal danger to humans*.
Do you know these common bay
sharks?
LEOPARD SHARK
Triakis semifasciata | Size at maturity: 3.9–4.9 feet long
Distinguished by its gray and brown spots on its dorsal side — the pattern is like a fingerprint, unique to each shark.
BROADNOSE SEVENGILL SHARK
Notorynchus cepedianus | Size at maturity: 7.2 feet for females, 4.9 feet for males
This is the bay’s largest shark species (besides the great white, which sometimes ventures into the bay, albeit rarely). As the name suggests, this shark has a broad nose and seven gills. Most other sharks have five gills.
BROWN SMOOTHHOUND SHARK
Mustelus henlei | Size at maturity: 27.6 inches for females, 22.4–25.6 inches for males
A small, reddish-brown shark that’s commonly caught by fishers at California piers.
PACIFIC SPINY DOGFISH
Squalus suckleyi | Size at maturity: 3.2–4.3 feet long
Possesses two venomous spines in front of each dorsal fin. This shark used to be considered the same species as its southern Pacific and Atlantic counterpart, Squalus acanthias, but was deemed a separate species in 2010.
*Unless you eat them! Shark meat contains high levels of mercury.
Pacific Spiny Dogfish
Brown Smoothhound Shark
Leopard Shark
Broadnose Sevengill Shark
AN UN-FOREGETTABLE INVITATIONAL
TRAIN SMARTER
written on your scorecard.
If you’ve missed the invitational, don’t worry; you can sign up for next year, or just donate to these worthwhile causes.
MAD ABOUT MAHJONG
Praised for its many benefits, including memory boosts and social connections with others, the tilebased game is having a big moment in Marin.
BY DONNA BERRY GLASS
a late Monday morning in March, and the clacketyclack sound of tiles hitting tables reverberates through the room at Crown & Crumpet tea house in Ross. Seated around a table, Meghan Callinan studies her hand with focused intensity. She draws a tile and triumphantly declares, “mahjong!” as she lays down her final set of three of a kind to win the round.
Callinan, 45, is part of a rapidly expanding group of Gen Xers and millennials embracing the game of mahjong to connect with others, especially in a post-COVID world where former friendships have faded and people long for like-minded connections with others.
Many of those taking up the game are mothers of preschool or school-age children who forge friendships with others navigating the same stages of life. Take Kim Nash, for example: She found both a new circle of friends and a surprising passion when her children were in preschool and she started playing mahjong with moms in San Francisco. “It became mom’s night out or just our chance to skip toddler bedtime, which was fantastic,” she says. Later, when she and her husband moved to Marin, Nash not only continued playing, but also found herself teaching the game to other parents at her kids’ school — one of whom was Callinan. Other women, like Jennifer Adams of San Anselmo, see the game as a mental respite from the stresses of life. The 51-year-old mom of two middle schoolers and the primary caretaker of an aging mom (who recently passed away) is part of the “sandwich generation.”
Adams was first exposed to mahjong as a child. “My parents played quite frequently, and my mom hosted monthly games at our house with her core group,” she says. “I called them ‘The Joy Luck Club.’”
Now, she regularly plays with a group of women through the Sleepy Hollow Homeowners Association, which regularly organizes games for its members.
CRACKING THE CODE
For those unfamiliar with Mahjong — also commonly spelled Mahjongg or Mah-Jongg — it is a tile-based game played by four people and is reminiscent of Gin Rummy, as players must create various matching or numerical sets to win. Many consider it more of a game of luck than of skill or strategy, although it does require thought, memory and attention to detail.
The game of mahjong was first developed in Southern China in the mid-1800s. There are up to 40 variations worldwide, with two versions of the game acknowledged as the most popular: American Mahjongg and Asian Mahjong. Both versions are played with similar sets of tiles, with some variations. American Mahjongg has the addition of a yearly “playing card” giving players extra points for certain hands, keeping the game fresh and exciting. Gambling is often part of the game, but it can be played with or without money involved.
From left: Meghan Callinan, AK L'Heureux, Elizabeth Gosselin, Kelly Alpert at Crown & Crumpet
A CULTURAL PHENOMENON
Mahjong first arrived in America in the 1920s and quickly captured the imagination of the social elite. Its popularity soared, especially among affluent women and men who based it on gambling. However, the game’s growing negative reputation as an ‘addictive gambler’s game’ along with its association with aging players and the shifting social dynamics led to its decline in mainstream appeal starting in the 1930s, even though it maintained its popularity among certain subgroups.
Many years later, the 2018 movie Crazy Rich Asians, featuring a powerful, symbolladen mahjong scene, reignited public interest in the game. Soon after, celebrities like Sarah Jessica Parker and Julia Roberts publicly professed their love for mahjong, further fueling the revival.
Today, the centuries-old game is experiencing a renaissance. Specialty mahjong nightclubs, themed vacations and cruises, and an entire ecosystem of curated merchandise now cater to a new generation
of enthusiasts. Mahjong designer tile sets starting at $400 are sold online as well as at upscale retailers such as Neiman Marcus and Anthropologie.
Bay Area businesses are riding the wave of mahjong mania too, turning the trend into clever marketing. In addition to Crown & Crumpet’s charming “Tea and Tiles” events which welcome up to 20 players for an afternoon of mahjong paired with traditional tea service, all three Mamahuhu restaurant locations — including the Mill Valley outpost — host “Mahjong Mondays,” featuring complimentary use of game sets, $5 beers and egg roll specials. The Marin Country Mart hosts free Sunday games in its big tent, which are often filled to capacity in advance.
Mahjong has made its way into community-based venues across the county, with public drop-in games offered nearly every weekday at community centers in Mill Valley, San Anselmo and San Rafael, as well as senior centers in Novato and San Rafael — all for a small fee or no charge at all.
GAME ON, BRAIN ON
Leslie Friedman, who teaches American Mahjongg in both Marin and San Francisco, leads the weekly open play games at Vivalon in San Rafael. The games draw more than 40 players each week, primarily retirees, many of whom travel from across the county. But Friedman has noticed a shift: nearly half of her private clients are now in their 30s and 40s, including both working and stay-at-home moms. “There’s definitely a craze and elevated interest in mahjong,” she says. “I’m not quite sure where it’s coming from — but it’s there.”
One of Friedman’s regular players at Vivalon, Irene Cooper, a youthful 65-yearold, picked up the game a few years ago after watching her mother struggle with dementia for over a decade. “There are so many things you can do for brain health,” Cooper says. “Playing games is one of
them.” Though she admits feeling nervous at first, she pushed through by taking several of Friedman’s classes. “It was anxiety-provoking in the beginning,” she says, “but I stuck with it.”
Cooper’s instincts are right. A review of 53 observational studies from Western and Asian databases, published by the National Library of Medicine, found that frequent mahjong play is associated with stronger cognitive function, better memory and improved mood. As a mental workout, it proves to be both engaging and effective, and has shown some promise to relieve depressive symptoms.
TURNING PASSION INTO PROFESSION
Kim Nash, a former real estate project manager for nonprofits, felt a shift when she casually began teaching others how to play mahjong in Marin — and quickly discovered a natural talent for it. Inspired, she stepped away from real estate to immerse herself in the world of mahjong, eventually launching her own brand, Mahj On My Mind. In just two years, she’s taught nearly 300 people, from new moms in their 30s to a group of women in their 70s who once attended UC Berkeley and were looking for something new to do besides cooking together. Most of her students are women — only about four have been men — though she says she enjoys teaching anyone eager to learn.
Nash has also cultivated partnerships with local businesses, teaching at Loveski Deli in Larkspur and regularly hosting workshops at Book Passage in Corte Madera. At the suggestion of some of her students, she was the one who approached the owner of Crown & Crumpet with the idea of monthly mahjong tea parties. “It lets people pop in and sign up as their schedule allows,” she says. “Plus they get a little extra support and coaching in a fun, informal setting.”
“I love all of it, the history, the playing, the tile sets,” she adds. “(Mahjong) is good for the heart, it's good for the brain. It's such a great community builder.”
Well, Well, Well
Three unique wellness destinations guaranteed to make you feel your best.
Cal-a-Vie Health Spa
Life bombards us with endless chaos and stressors between global news, natural disasters and daily challenges, making most any spa visit a good remedy. But the difference between getting an afternoon massage versus checking into a wellness program and luxury retreat is acute, opening a door to transformative experiences. Cal-a-Vie Health Spa, a stunning sanctuary in an unexpected spot — the rolling hills of Vista, California — is one such portal, where you can cocoon yourself into the embrace of wellness experts, fitness fanatics and Frette.
ANN WYCOFF & MIMI TOWLE
Guests are guided by elite health and nutritional pros, who create the ultimate personalized wellness plan for your stay. A typical day might include an early morning stretch and hike, a ballet at the barre or pelvic floor class, followed by a hydrating algae facial or a CBD, Himalayan salt-and-coffee-infused wrap. After a gourmet lunch, there’s Trapeze Yin Yoga, or mat Pilates, pickleball with pro coaches and a well-deserved myofascial massage. Evening activities educate guests with cooking classes, fireside chats on Functional Mushrooms, nutrition for longevity or the 5 Love Languages. It’s the ultimate adult “camp” for over-the-top pampering with a purposeful twist.
Charles Krug Songwriters Round
While 32 charming villas dot the 500-acre expanse, three spanking new “Maisons” offer luxe living in five- and six-bedroom residences, perfect for milestone occasions, girls’ getaways, multigenerational reunions, executive retreats or VIP seclusion. Think private chef dining, personal massage rooms, sunlit balconies, spacious living rooms and marble bedecked bathrooms.
There is a strong possibility you will not want to ever leave, hence the repeat clientele.
Known For: This paradise stands out for its incredible setting and style where luxury knows no bounds. Guests are surrounded by lavender fields, French Provençal-inspired architecture, vineyards, olive trees, gardens and luxurious lodgings filled with tasteful antiques, marble galore, the finest linens and more.
Highlights: Guests can truly unplug and recalibrate here. At dawn, you can stroll the labyrinth bathed in golden light, while at night, the 17th-century French chapel, transported stone by stone
from Dijon, France and rebuilt on the property, awaits for a candlelit concert or peaceful meditation. And you never know whom you will befriend at this idyllic hideaway. Perhaps a rock-n-roll legend from your favorite band and an opportunity to discuss the merits and mysteries of sound bathing, astral journeys and quantum physics in a state of post-vibrational meditation bliss. (And no, we are not making this up).
The Magic: Cal-a-Vie honors the unique needs of women from hormone-balancing therapies and anti-inflammatory body wraps to age-defying organic facials and bone-strengthening fitness workouts thoughtful treatments designed to promote longevity, vitality and graceful aging. Always cutting-edge in therapies and technology, the spa’s new 90-minute Magnesium Massage is designed to promote restful sleep, relaxation, joint and muscle pain reduction and detoxification. You can also add on a CARA Multi Modal Tool session to any facials as this anti-aging technology taps into skin’s circadian rhythm using Radio Frequency, Electrical Muscle Stimulation and LED light therapy to improve elasticity, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines and boost collagen.
Deets: A variety of wellness packages for three-, four- and seven-night stays, with prices ranging from $5,300+ to $11,500+. Maison stays range from $7820 to $17,380 per person, plus tax. Some treatments are included along with all fitness classes, meals, meal planning and nutritional consulting. Services like bloodwork, acupuncture, IVs, specialty treatments, etc. are not. Round trip transportation from the San Diego Airport is complimentary to all guests.
29402 Spa Havens Way, Vista, cal-a-vie.com
We Care Spa
"We Care is a reset, it’s not a resort or a retreat," explains managing director Jim Root, whose spa retreat resume is probably the best in the business and has been with the property for nearly two years. Starting with Rancho La Puerto 26 years ago (shout out to Marin-based owners Deborah Szekely, her daughter Sarah Livia), Mi Amo, Miraval and Meadowood — all considered the big guns of the spa retreat category. At nearly 70, looking more like 40, he was brought to We Care as it evolves. “We aren’t looking to expand or change anything,” explains Root, “we just want to enrich the existing program.” The pandemic marked a time for change for
the 28-room property — many longtime employees found work elsewhere and they took advantage of the moment to upgrade some of their spaces and add new ‘ villas.’ The treatments however are still based on founder Susana’s belief that addressing/removing/ tampering/ridding the body of inflammation and gut health is the key to longevity and overall well being. According to Root, “Nine out of the 10 diseases on the list of top causes of death from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are inflammationrelated. Some of these conditions are cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver
disease and autoimmune and neurodegenerative disorders.
The Magic: The community they have fostered for decades. Forty years ago, Susana opened her home to friends and friends of friends to share a lifestyle and a business grew from there. Today these guests bring along their children and new friends. Guests can expect no chewing (liquids only), therapeutic massages, daily colonics (with probiotics) and ancient as well as cutting edge modalities. Suzanna has also integrated three crystals into the wall studs of every guest room, treatment room and public space: Amethyst for physical, spiritual and mental balance; Selenite for clearing, purifying and cleansing energy; and clear quartz, a.k.a. “The Master Healer” to clear negativity and boost the immune system.
Deets: Good news for newbies, the property has opened up stays to less than a week. Expect to pay around $1,200 a day for luxe lodging, all supplements, liquids (dinner is soup) and classes (nutrition, yoga, sound baths) and colonics, and when you leave, you’ll be asked for tips on top of every treatment. While some treatments are offered as a package(s), a la carte treatments are allowed as well.
18000 Long Canyon Rd, Desert Hot Springs, wecarespa.com
Post Ranch Inn
We might think there's one reason, the esteemed, Post Ranch Inn is widely recognized as one of the most exclusive sustainable luxury resorts in the country. But in fact, there are many. It’s not how the architecture blends into the surrounding nature or the decks with sweeping views where guests can lose themselves in the endless search for a whale spout during the day, or star gaze, or the award-winning cuisine paired with one of the most coveted wine lists in California, or even the deeply restorative and unique daily wellness experiences. These are all part of the collective experience. However, what is nearly impossible to find anywhere else is the deep connection to nature and this storied coastline. Where else can you literally air kiss a Harris’s hawk named Diego as it lands on your gloved forearm, prior to entering the bliss zone from a deeply restorative cranial sacral spa treatment surrounded by swaying redwoods. And, there’s one more reason: the people. The on-site hospitality dream team ensures guests are taken care of from the moment they arrive. Many live on property and have for generations. They are deeply passionate about the land, and it shows.
This unique combination of sustainability and luxury did not happen by luck or accident, instead, it originates from the vision of founder Michael Freed, a California native and managing partner of Passport Resorts, who has honed the adage of better living through inspired design. Post Ranch Inn started with a dream. Back in 1980, Freed, with the blessing and partnership of Billy Post (descendant of the original ranch owners) and the creative genius of renowned architect Mickey Muennig, is credited with creating the model for sustainable luxury resorts, well before it was a search term. While some of the Inn’s sustainable efforts are noticeable such as the green roofs, cool benches made from fallen trees, reused old-growth redwood panel walls and tree houses (built on stilts to project root systems of the ancient redwoods and oaks) most guests won’t notice one of largest solar power arrays in California on the property, the first commercial greywater system created in Monterey County and the fact that 90% of the resort is preserved as open space. Unlike so many resorts these days that are successful, then acquired, renamed and rebranded, the resort has remained true to its origins and its soul remains alive and well.
Known For: Direct connection to nature for romantic escapes. Decades before forest bathing became a thing, guests roamed the quiet redwood groves, observed the rhythms of nature and dined on award-winning organic cuisine, sourced from the property and local purveyors. Nestled on a cliffside 1,200 feet above the churning Pacific Ocean, each room is designed for privacy allowing couples to wake up to fog drifting through ancient redwoods and fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves and a bit of stargazing.
Highlights: Meals. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all chances to experience Sierra Mar perched on the cliffs of the Pacific and an award-winning restaurant (and Wine Spectator Grand Award-winning wine list) with extensive views of the coastline. Michelin-star chef and culinary director Reylon Agustin/ Post Ranch Inn is helping to develop nonprofit, Regenerative California, a new 68-acre farm and garden in nearby Salinas that will supply Sierra Mar and other local restaurants with produce grown in a responsibly organic and regenerative manner.
The Magic: The design of the architecture — uses natural materials, flowing lines, and open space — embracing the principles of biophilic design (shown to reduce stress and enhance well-being). Spa therapists draw on time-tested techniques like aromatherapy, sound healing and energy work, while cutting-edge options such as craniosacral therapy offer deeper physical release. Classes, such as yoga, tai chi and falconry, keep guests connected to nature, which is part of the property’s secret sauce.
Details: Post Ranch Inn offers a combination of 40 rooms, suites and private houses, each uniquely designed to reflect the natural beauty surrounding them — think floor-to-ceiling windows, outdoor soaking tubs and earth-sheltered dwellings. Nightly rates start at $1,925 and can top $5,000 for the private houses. Rates include a gourmet breakfast, a fully stocked minibar, yoga and wellness classes and access to the property’s luxury amenities including high-end Lexus vehicles for touring. The inn does not charge resort fees and is intentionally tech-free: no televisions or alarm clocks, just organic linens, wood-burning fireplaces and views that redefine relaxation. With its all-uniqueness and high-touch service, Post Ranch Inn is a splurge — but one many say is worth every cent.
47900 CA-1, Big Sur, postranchinn.com
MARIN’S SHIFTING SHORELINE:
ADAPTING OUR HABITAT TO LIVE WITH WATER
BY JENNIFER GENNARI
In Marin, driving along the 101, it’s not surprising to glance out the window and spy a great blue heron fishing or a black-necked stilt wading through eelgrass. They are reminders that our coastline was once mostly tidal marshes.
For centuries, we’ve reclaimed wetlands for development. “When you look at what’s been filled — all the way from the hills to the bay, well…” said Barbara Salzman, president of the Marin Audubon Society. “It’s important to keep the little pieces we have left.”
Ironically, climate change is stepping in to determine the fate of Marin’s marshes, too. One foot higher oceans, which may occur as soon as 2050, could restore wetlands to historic levels of the 1850s. And as the sea rises, stronger waves will change the shore edge, driving animals and plant species inland. And if we don’t make room, our natural world will degrade further.
That’s why county leaders and planners agree that the threat of sea level rise is an opportunity to improve our coastal environment.
Adapting To Higher Seas
What will be dry land and what will be marsh? A first adaptation step is deciding where to draw the “resilient edge,” the line between land and water. Then it’s a question of how the changes under consideration will affect the habitat. “You have to weave together a lot of different things,” said Chris Choo, assistant director of the Marin County Community Development Agency. “We have to map a way forward.”
Planners agree on four main adaptation strategies: raising buildings and infrastructure like roads; hardening the edge where water encroaches on development; reducing the impact of wave action with nature-based solutions; and floating architecture where there’s no way to avoid the incoming sea.
Two of the strategies — elevating and floating homes and buildings — already exist in Marin. Many structures are on pilings in tidal communities. The Sausalito houseboat marinas have raised parking lots, and the newest dock rises and falls with the tides, keeping utilities safe from saltwater.
Hardening the land-water edge usually involves building a seawall, a solution that’s often chosen when there isn’t much space. “A wetland can’t be just plopped down,” Choo said, adding that in an urban area like San Rafael there isn’t room for a sloping marsh.
But seawalls disturb where the water
goes, and marine life experience what’s called a “coastal squeeze,” losing places to feed and spawn and thrive.
Instead, there’s good science to back green solutions.
Bringing Back Oysters
“Oyster reefs are just as effective, if not more, as those highly engineered solutions we often see, like riprap and seawalls,” said Katharyn Boyer, professor at San Francisco State and director of the Estuary and Ocean Science Center. “And, they provide habitat.”
Oysters are the heroes of the sea. Olympia oysters slow erosion by catching sediment and filtering out pollutants as they feed, such as those that cause algal blooms. One oyster purifies eight to 12 gallons of water per day. Female oysters disperse fertilized oysters in a planktonlike form, which swims around for two weeks, then settles on sheltered estuaries, which is why it’s vital to provide reefs in tidal zones.
Avocets at Tiscornia Marsh
“The biggest Olympia oysters anyone has seen are at Dunphy Park.”
In 2012, Boyer, an expert in the restoration and conservation of coastal habitats in a changing climate, led the first Living Shorelines Project in San Rafael at Spinnaker Point. Her team created a series of manmade oyster reefs with and without eelgrass plantings. They used shell bag mounds to see if these reefs would attract oysters, reduce the flow of water and accumulate sediment.
“It was wildly successful — there are millions of oysters out there,” she said, noting that despite flaws in the design, the reefs did accumulate sediment and slow wave action.
Building on that first success, they built new modular and more lightweight reefs. In 2020, they installed them in three areas in Marin: in the same location in San Rafael; at the north end of the Estuary and Ocean Science Center, between Tiburon and Corte Madera; and at Dunphy Park, in Sausalito.
All three succeeded, with especially ideal conditions in Sausalito. “The biggest Olympia oysters anyone has seen are at Dunphy Park,” Boyer said. They have found individual oysters in the 40–50 millimeter range (1.5–2 inches). That’s about 10 millimeters larger than what’s normally found in San Francisco Bay.
Restoring Marshes
It turns out the protected shoreward sides of oyster reefs are also ideal for eelgrass. Eelgrass, a native flowering plant, forms beds above ground and their rhizomes help keep sediment in place. They provide essential spawning space for herring and other fish as well as benefits for the planet.
“Eelgrass is a climate powerhouse,” Boyer said. “They capture carbon and they can raise the pH of the water to counter the acidification of the ocean.” More acidic oceans are bad news for shellfish, and their decline would impact the whole ocean ecosystem.
Bothin Marsh in Mill Valley, stretching from Blithedale Avenue to Route One, is one place where bringing back a healthy
Olympia oysters make themselves at home on the modular reefs near Dunphy Park in Sausalito
Members of the Estuary and Ocean Science Center and The Studio for Urban Projects install the first Reef Architecture test in Tiburon in 2023
wetland will encourage eelgrass growth. The multiuse path that divides the marsh is going to be moved to the perimeter, close to the shops and restaurants in Tam Junction. “We can give up a little and gain a lot,” Choo said. The restored 1200-acre marsh will be rebuilt to reduce flood risk and provide saltwater at the right depth for the plants to get sunlight and live. The terrain will become varied in height, enabling animals to hide at high tide from predators and rising water. The approved project is expected to be completed in 2030.
In San Rafael, the rehabilitation of Tiscornia Marsh is already underway. The Marin Audubon Society teamed up with the Multicultural Center of Marin with a grant from the Marin Community Foundation to fix this critical habitat near the Canal. “The existing marsh was
eroding,” Salzman said. The project will open the diked marsh to tidal action, providing transition zone habitat for wildlife and flood control.
The Marin Audubon Society also worked to restore wetlands in Bahia near Novato. “The marsh was basically barren,” she said. “The most difficult part is dealing with the invasives.” Volunteers helped plant natives, which needed watering for a few summers until becoming established.
Living With Water
Supervisor Stephanie Moulton-Peters is optimistic that Marin will make choices that will simultaneously prepare the county for a higher sea and enhance the environment. “There are many examples of communities living with water,” she said. “People around the world have figured it out, and we can, too.”
We don’t need to look further than Larkspur to imagine a future where people and wildlife can co-exist. Near the ferry terminal, 48 homes rest on pilings above the tidal marsh.
Walking the half-mile Greenbrae Boardwalk to and from their car is not a problem for local Wanden Treanor and her partner. “It keeps us active, and it’s good for our mental health,” she said.
Although some of the homes will need to be raised higher, and safeguards need to be added to reduce wave action from the larger ferries, the community happily coexists with the snowy egrets and herons.
“We’ve lived here for four decades,” Treanor added. “It’s home.”
Part one of Shifting Shorelines appeared in the May issue.
A row of elevated homes on the Greenbrae Boardwalk that co-exist with rising tides and marsh-loving animals
Ridgeway Rail
GIANTS RETURN TO THE GOLDEN GATE:
Whales are back in the Bay, a testament to decades of protection — but not all are making it out. What’s drawing them in, and what’s putting them at risk?
BY ALISON LOOMIS
With binoculars steady in hand, Darrin Allen scans the vibrant waters where San Francisco Bay meets the Pacific. From his lookout at Battery Yates on Cavallo Point’s Yellow Bluff, he peers between the rocky silhouette of Alcatraz and the fog-laced green slopes of Angel Island rising to the left. Behind him, the rust-red North Tower of the Golden Gate Bridge pierces the sky.
On this gusty, golden-lit Saturday — March 22, 2025 — the Bay is bustling with spring energy. Perched atop the coastal bluffs at Battery Yates, Allen has a commanding view of the dynamic ballet of marine traffic: sleek kayakers, high-speed ferries, and colossal cargo ships slicing toward port. But Allen isn’t watching for vessels—he’s scanning for something far more vulnerable: gray
whales. Their northbound migration from Baja’s whale nurseries has arrived early this year, overlapping with one of the busiest weekends on the water.
“There are about six grays in the Bay right now,” says Allen, a retired Marin firefighter and volunteer whale spotter with the Marine Mammal Center. Tall, easygoing, and composed, Allen now spends many of his retirement days aboard a boat, scanning for the telltale V-shaped exhale of a whale. Today, he’s behind a tripod-mounted camera, pointing toward two distant misty plumes past Alcatraz several miles offshore. “Two blows,” he says quietly. One pair, he notes with concern, is drifting into the high-speed ferry corridor; the other, perilously close to the cargo shipping lane. “Those aren’t safe places for them to be.”
On this particular morning, SailGP’s foiling catamarans skim like flying blades across the Bay off the St. Francis Yacht Club. From shore and support vessels, trained observers with the race’s marine mammal program log whale positions in real time to help avoid tragic collisions — a precaution born of necessity in these shared, increasingly crowded waters.
“Sometimes they dive for 20 minutes and pop up a mile away,”
Allen explains. Mornings, he notes, offer better odds for spotting whales: calmer seas make their spouts easier to see and movements more predictable. Sailors, by contrast, chase the wind — and prefer the punchier breezes of afternoon.
Still, even with vigilant eyes on the water to protect these gentle giants, by April the headlines began to darken: another dead whale washed ashore. The joy of a sighting gave way to grief, a necropsy, and public outcry. By June 1, the California Academy of Sciences had documented 15 whale deaths in the San Francisco Bay Area alone — a sobering toll that underscores the mounting threats these giants face on their long migration.
What’s driving the change? In many cases, it’s the growing impact of ship traffic. Other times, it’s deeper stressors — warming seas, vanishing prey, or disorientation amid an increasingly chaotic soundscape of thunderous propellers, seismic blasts, and low-frequency sonar pulses. Not every necropsy confirms a ship strike, but each loss deepens the urgency. These returning giants are proof that conservation can work — yet their vulnerability is a stark reminder of how fragile that success still is.
A REMARKABLE RECOVERY WITH NEW CHALLENGES
San Francisco Bay's ecological renaissance tells a powerful story of resilience. Decades of dedicated water quality improvements have brought back species once entirely absent since World War II — like harbor porpoises, now regularly seen feeding along the tidelines. More recently, even larger marine mammals have begun lingering longer in the Bay, including seasonal visitors like gray whales, while humpbacks can be spotted year-round in local waters.
These gentle giants captivate residents and visitors alike. When anchovies flood into the Bay, it’s hard not to be spellbound by the sight of a dark gray humpback erupting from the surface — its 60-foot,
40-ton body breaching skyward, long white pectoral fins flared, pleated belly catching the light — before crashing down in a thunderous splash just beyond the Golden Gate, near Kirby Cove. Elsewhere, a 30-foot gray whale glides past the Sausalito docks, its barnacle-
These returning giants are proof that conservation can work — yet their vulnerability is a stark reminder of how fragile that success still is.
crusted back mottled like granite. Unlike the humpback, the gray whale has no dorsal fin — revealing only a gentle hump before it lifts its broad fluke and dives to sift through the muddy seafloor in search of benthic crustaceans. These encounters stir awe, connection and concern. As more whales return to these increasingly crowded waters — shared with commercial ships, fishing vessels and recreational boaters — the question becomes urgent: how do we protect them?
While the San Francisco Bay Area is one of the world’s busiest urban estuaries,
it’s also home to a robust community of informed citizens and collaborative changemakers dedicated to protecting it.
The Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito — long a sentinel for observation, rescue, and rehabilitation — is now tackling a more complex challenge alongside its partners: informing science-based solutions that bridge conservation and industry to keep whales safe. Their success across the Bay — including implementing real-time whale tracking systems and supporting voluntary vessel speed reductions — is helping reduce fatal ship strikes. That local momentum, along with related work in offshore sanctuaries like Greater Farallones and Cordell Bank and through the International Whaling Commission, is building a global model for mitigating marine mammal risk in increasingly trafficked coastal waters.
UNDERSTANDING CHANGING MIGRATION PATTERNS
Gray whales are known for their epic 10,000-mile migrations from Baja's warm lagoons — winter breeding grounds — to the frigid Bering Sea, where they feed in summer. But in recent years, some grays have lingered unusually long in coastal bays during their northbound journeys.
“This kind of behavior could be a sign of distress,” explains Allen, who photographs individual whales for the Marine
Chiaki Hayashi's “Knitting in the Garden” group at Marin Art and Garden Center
Mammal Center’s identification database. Since 2019, more than 45% of the Eastern Pacific gray whale population is estimated to have died. “They’re arriving emaciated, covered in lice. This makes them vulnerable to disease. The Bay might be a good place for them to rest and feed.”
Oceanographers link this die-off to climate-driven disruptions in Bering Sea productivity. With less sea ice, food supplies like tube worms and other bottom-dwelling invertebrates are disappearing, leaving whales starving in what were once reliable feeding grounds. Meanwhile, the behavior of local endangered humpbacks is also shifting, as warming seas and changes in prey availability disrupt their historic migration routes. Farther offshore, endangered fin whales and blue whales — the largest animals ever to live — are adjusting their foraging patterns in response to changing upwelling zones in the Northern California Current. These nutrient-rich waters fuel blooms of krill, the tiny crustaceans that sustain these giants. A single blue whale, nearly 100 feet long and weighing up to 200 tons, can consume up to 16 tons of krill a day — strained through massive baleen plates.
But as prey shifts closer to shore or sanctuaries, so do the whales — bringing them perilously close to human activity, namely, ship traffic and fishing gear.
Few people understand the stakes better than Kathi George. A veteran diver with six whale disentanglements to her name, George has spent the past decade on the front lines of cetacean rescue.
As Director of Cetacean Conservation Biology at the Marine Mammal Center, she collaborates with scientists, captains and policymakers to reduce human-wildlife conflict in coastal waters. She puts it plainly: “Human activity in whale habitats is on the rise, and whales are increasingly present in busy urban waterways. This growing overlap calls for proactive adaptation.”
DEADLY INTERSECTIONS
California's coast holds two primary feeding corridors for whales: one stretching from San Francisco and the Farallones down to Monterey Bay, the other from Santa Barbara to the Channel Islands. Dubbed by the International Whaling Commission (IWC) as “ship strike hot spots,” these critical feeding zones lie in the highest density of commercial maritime traffic in the world, overlapping with the highest abundance of migrating and feeding whales.
“Ship strikes often occur due to high vessel speed when cetaceans aren't aware or able to react fast enough to approaching ships,” explains George. “Whale presence may not be noticed due to whale behavior, poor visibility, darkness, weather conditions, missing lookout on board or lack of communication about whale sightings between vessels.”
The statistics are sobering. Six endangered whale populations migrate through the Greater Farallones and Cordell Bank sanctuaries. Yet three major shipping lanes cut directly through these
vital feeding grounds, leading to and from the Port of Oakland, the eighth busiest port in the United States. Modeled numbers from Rockwood et al. (2017) suggest that in a single recent year, ship strikes on the U.S. West Coast killed 18 blue whales, 22 humpbacks and 43 fin whales. Most carcasses sink without being detected. In fact, only an estimated 2% to 17% of fatal strikes are ever documented.
Globally, the toll is even more alarming: up to 20,000 whales may be killed by ships each year.
Today, approximately 90% of global goods travel by sea, with maritime trade projected to double by 2050 — potentially tripling carbon emissions. These emissions contribute to climate change, which in turn intensifies threats to whales by melting Arctic ice and opening new shipping routes through critical feeding grounds. According to a recent study in Science, 15% of the world's oceans now face ship-strike risks comparable to the California Current Ecosystem. Critical hot spots exist in places like Sri Lanka, Ecuador, the Canary Islands (Spain) and the Hellenic Trench (Greece) for endangered sperm whales, the Northwest Mediterranean Sea for endangered fin whales and the Northeast coast of the US, where North Atlantic right whales are on the brink of extinction.
In 2008, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) introduced the Vessel Speed Rule, later strengthened by additional amendments in 2020. Yet, persuading shipping vessels and companies to cooperate in consistently slowing down has proven challenging.
“Slowing to 10 knots reduces fatal collision risk,” explains George. “It also cuts emissions and ocean noise. Everyone wins — the whales, the environment and ultimately the maritime industry through positive public perception.”
Voluntary measures alone aren’t enough. To truly safeguard whales, speed limits must be science-based, enforceable and monitored globally. The stakes — biodiversity, climate stability and industry credibility — are too high to ignore.
A TANGLED THREAT
While commercial whaling once decimated whale populations, today’s dangers are more insidious and less visible. Beyond vessel strikes, entanglement in fishing equipment also poses challenges — particularly abandoned “ghost nets” and trap gear along the California coast.
“Between 30 and 70% of whales on the West Coast bear scars from past entanglements,” explains Ryan Berger, wildlife biologist. With 20+ entanglement responses under his belt — including ~10 full and partial releases and three multi-day operations — Berger knows the grim reality up close. “When a whale becomes entangled, that gear can remain attached for days, months, even years, interfering with everything essential to survival — swimming, feeding, breathing.”
The toll is brutal. “I've seen whales with entire flukes severed, or pectoral fins that detached during our response,” Berger adds. Severe cases lead to death through infection, starvation, blood loss, or suffocation. While some whales manage to shed gear independently, many perish without intervention. “It is important to note that no one wants to see these majestic creatures suffer and work to mitigate this is ongoing.”
Efforts to address whale entanglement
“Each disentanglement operation costs approximately $14,000,” notes Berger. “A five-person team might spend several days working to free a whale from a single Dungeness crab pot.”
took shape in the 1990s, when NOAA formalized marine mammal stranding and disentanglement networks. But the issue came to a head in 2016, when a spike of 70 reported entanglements was reported along the West Coast. This galvanized urgent action from a newly formed working group that unites commercial fishermen, scientists, policymakers and conservationists.
The rescue work is as costly as it is dangerous. “Each disentanglement operation costs approximately $14,000,” notes Berger. “A five-person team might spend several days working to free a whale from a single Dungeness crab pot.”
The risks are substantial. “A 40-ton distressed animal can become frightened or agitated by boats. Their predator-prey instincts kick in — they may lash out with force and threatening blows or vocalizations,” Berger explains. “We’re trained
well to manage these situations. First, we extensively document the whale's behavior and the entangling gear using photos and drone footage. Then we identify one strategic cut where drag force from the whale’s own movement can release the remaining gear.”
Prevention remains the gold standard. “A lot more research is needed, but we've made real progress,” says Berger. “We’re conducting research that informs RAMP regulations and management actions in the fishery, inviting fishermen to participate in disentanglement responses, and collaborating on other risk reduction efforts.”
One of the strongest voices for industry-led innovation is Richard Ogg, a longtime commercial fisherman and member of the California Dungeness Crab Fishing Gear Working Group since 2017. He’s seen the culture shift firsthand. “It’s great to see these animals making a comeback,” Ogg reflects. “For a long time, fishermen got used to their absence
after the whaling era. We're now creating options that lower the risk to whales without putting fishermen out of business.”
The results speak for themselves. “Last year there were only four confirmed commercial Dungeness crab entanglements,” Ogg notes proudly. “That's a mitigation win. But it’s hard for people to understand what we’re up against and giving up — our eight-month crabbing season was cut in half.”
And yet, amid the risk and sacrifice, one question lingers: Do whales somehow sense they’re being helped?
Berger pauses to consider. “We can’t know for sure. Humpbacks are highly intelligent. I’ve observed them help each other, and they often inspect us, looking up at our boats during rescues. After one disentanglement, a humpback swam around our vessel three times. Maybe it was disoriented. Maybe it was saying thank you. I like to think they know we’re trying.”
NAVIGATING SOLUTIONS TOGETHER
Just as fishing gear and seasons have been adapted to protect whales, vessels can reduce speeds to avoid deadly collisions. Yet despite the implementation of Vessel Speed Reduction (VSR) zones and voluntary seasonal guidelines, ship strikes remain disappointingly high. Many shipping companies do participate in these conservation measures, but the lack of enforceable mandates creates competitive disadvantages — those who comply often fall behind companies that prioritize speed.
Whale Safe, a real-time monitoring system developed by the Benioff Ocean Science Laboratory (BOSL) at the University of California, integrates acoustic data, visual sightings and AI-powered ship tracking to monitor both whales and vessels. It generates “report cards” grading shipping companies from A+ to F based on their cooperation with speed recommendations across North America. While some companies, like MSC, Maersk, Hapag Lloyd, Ocean Network Express and NYK Line consistently score high, not all operators are willing to slow down without mandatory requirements.
“Since whales are now present year-round off San Francisco, there’s strong reason to support year-round speed reductions,” says George. “The most effective strategies involve working directly with maritime professionals who want to be part of the change.”
Although several high-scoring shipping companies declined to comment, others in the harbor community are eager to collaborate. Tony Heeter, Operations Supervisor at Blue & Gold Fleet and Vice-Chair of the San Francisco Harbor Safety Committee, highlights the value of coordination between scientists and industry. “The hazards are dynamic, and the presence of gray whales has everyone on high alert,” he says. “San Francisco Vessel Traffic Service (Channel 14) does an outstanding job keeping operators informed. By calling in, we get real-time updates on whale locations and other hazards, allowing us to alter course in advance.” Heeter also urges recreational boaters to tune in and report whale sightings via the Whale Alert app. As Blue & Gold transitions to electric vessels and Golden Gate Ferry adopts hybrid technology, he sees evolving protocols as key to helping whales detect vessels — supporting both safety and sustainability.
Offshore San Francisco, Whale Safe features a real-time whale presence rating to improve situational awareness for mariners. This effort is a collaboration among several leading institutions: The Marine Mammal Center; Point Blue Conservation Science, which monitors wildlife around the Farallon Islands and offshore waters; the Benioff Ocean Science Laboratory, which developed Whale
Safe; Cascadia Research Collective, experts in North Pacific cetaceans; Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, both contributing to acoustic detection and validation; and NOAA, which provides a blue whale habitat model. Together, these partners are creating a dynamic, live map of whale activity — empowering safer navigation and helping reduce fatal ship strikes.
As more shipping companies begin incorporating Whale Safe grades into their sustainability reporting, the potential to scale acoustic buoy networks and monitor vessel speed reduction (VSR) cooperation is gaining traction across California — and potentially far beyond. The state’s AB 14 “Blue Whales and Blue Skies” legislation may soon standardize these practices statewide — laying the groundwork for broader adoption along the Pacific Coast and internationally. Yet this momentum risks stalling in the face of significant proposed cuts to NOAA’s budget.
“The federal government is essential to advancing this work internationally,” says George. “NOAA plays a central role in our collaboration.”
The proposed fiscal year 2025 NOAA budget includes a nearly 30% reduction — amounting to $1.7 billion less — threatening programs vital to ocean health. The National Marine Sanctuary Program alone is facing a $150 million cut, according to the agency’s own budget summary. “Without adequate funding, key partners like Point Blue have already had to cut some of their operations,” George adds.
A HOPEFUL FUTURE
Despite mounting challenges, the future of whale conservation remains promising — powered by innovation and collaboration. Acoustic buoys used in the Whale Safe system already detect whale presence, and new models will soon track their direction of travel. This data can be combined with infrared detectors on the Golden Gate Bridge, drone surveys, tagging, hydrophone arrays, and 3D forward-looking sonar to help vessels avoid whales in real time. In the long run, artificial intelligence may improve the detection and interpretation of whale vocalizations — identifying patterns, distinguishing species, and alerting mariners to nearby presence with greater precision.
“Effective reduction of vessel strike risk depends on strong collaboration with industry. Transparent information sharing and responsive action are critical to protecting whales.”
Everyone on the water has a role — mariners, kayakers, yacht owners, and fishers. George urges using the Whale Alert app to log sightings and report whales to the Coast Guard’s Vessel Traffic Service on Channel 14.
“Effective reduction of vessel strike risk depends on strong collaboration with industry. Transparent information sharing and responsive action are critical to protecting whales.”
“We’ve created a model other busy ports can follow,” says George. “Seeing a whale in the Bay reflects decades of restoration and conservation. Reporting one can save lives.”
As federal support declines, public involvement is more vital than ever. Groups like The Marine Mammal Center and Point Blue depend on community support to continue this critical work. Whether by giving time, sharing sightings, or donating resources, Bay Area residents can help keep local waters safe — and ensure whales remain part of them for generations to come.
Faces of Fiduciary Wealth Management
David Wootton, AIF, CEPA®, Vice President, Financial Advisor and Lachlan MacLean, Vice President, Financial Advisor
AT THE EQUIUS TEAM, wealth management is about people, purpose, and partnership. As a boutique firm for high-net-worth individuals and families, Equius offers a relationship-first approach rooted in transparency, trust, and white-glove service. Whether you’re a founder, physician, engineer, or entrepreneur, Equius helps you gain clarity and confidence in your financial future. Clients come to Equius seeking a fiduciary partner committed to their goals—today and for generations to come.
VP Financial Advisors David Wootton and Lachlan MacLean guide this mission, bringing decades of experience and a passion for helping clients
thrive. Alongside the broader Equius team, they deliver a high-touch experience that empowers clients to build, preserve, and pass on their wealth with purpose. Schedule a consultation to explore how they can support your financial goals.
Face of Kindness Experience That Moves You
GARRETT BURDICK brings a rich tapestry of real estate experience dating back to 2010. More than an agent, he’s a strategist, a visionary, and a trusted partner in one of life’s biggest decisions. Having bought, renovated, and sold homes as both owner and agent, Garrett understands real estate from every angle—and it shows.
He’s known for preparing homes with care and style, helping sellers achieve top value, and for guiding buyers—from the Bay Area to as far as Europe—to find their perfect place in Marin. Clients consistently praise his attentive listening, clear communication, and genuine authenticity.
With Coldwell Banker Realty, Garrett offers local expertise with global reach, backed by a background in development, photography, and even the culinary arts—as a CIA-trained chef. Based in San Rafael with his wife Tanya and their two college-aged sons, Garrett brings both heart and know-how to every transaction.
Whether you’re buying or selling, Garrett is here to help turn your dreams into reality.
San Rafael, CA l 415.602.2282 l garrettburdick.realtor
Faces of Architecture
The Andrew Mann Architecture Team
ANDREW MANN ARCHITECTURE creates homes rooted in connection: between people and place, indoors and out, light and material, client and architect. With over 25 years of experience across Northern California, the studio designs residences that reflect a deep understanding of how clients live. The process is collaborative and intentional, grounded in open dialogue and thoughtful design.
Founded in 1998 by Andrew Mann, and now led by Mann and Johnny Maas, the firm draws strongly from the Bay Area Style. Their work responds to site and context through natural materials, elegant spatial sequences,
and a seamless relationship between architecture and landscape.
Whether framing a view, honoring a site’s history, or translating a vision into form, AMA balances clarity with craft. Close collaboration with clients, contractors, and consultants ensures every detail supports a shared vision and every home feels deeply personal.
Face of Marketing Communications in the San Francisco Bay
Sarah Segal, Founder & CEO of Segal Communications
SARAH SEGAL IS THE FOUNDER OF SEGAL COMMUNICATIONS, an award-winning public relations, social media, content, and influencer marketing agency founded in Marin and now headquartered in the heart of San Francisco. A former broadcast journalist, Sarah launched her widely recognized lifestyle agency to craft comprehensive omnichannel communication strategies spanning food, restaurants, retail, events, and hospitality. Her diverse client roster includes national brands and beloved Bay Area names, including Malibu Farm Tiburon, Shane Co., East Brother Beer, City Experiences, and FACE FOUNDRIÉ. This July, Sarah and her team are excited to launch a new Wine & Spirits division, led by a well-known San Francisco publicist.
“We love working with brands at every stage, from emerging businesses to established names looking to solidify their presence in the Bay Area,” says Sarah. “My team lives, works, and plays here, so we truly understand the region’s unique ‘microclimates.’”
Sarah is always eager to connect with executives and entrepreneurs who have great ideas. She prides herself on becoming an integral part of her clients’ teams and is deeply committed to driving tangible results— whether that’s increasing reservations, boosting ticket sales, generating revenue, or building meaningful partnerships.
segalcommunications.com info@segalcommunications.com 415.723.1005 l @segalcommunications
Face of Your Architectural Guide
Michael Rex, Principal Architect, Michael Rex Architects, Ltd.
THERE ARE ARCHITECTS who focus on their own art and those who focus on providing service. Michael is the latter. For him, the adventure is collaborating with his clients. Since everyone has a different aesthetic, every Project Michael designs is unique. This is what sets Michael Rex Architects apart. A quick review of the firm’s website demonstrates this versatility.
What remains true of all the work is quality, fine proportions, and rational forms that complement the site. The architecture is long-lasting and functions well. Best of all, the spaces are joyous. They are complete
environments that are filled with light and open out to beautiful views and gardens.
Michael is your guide along a complex path leading to comfort and pleasure. With a skilled team of experts, Michael has been successfully guiding clients for over 40 years.
Faces of Natural Beauty
AT SIEBER PLASTIC SURGERY, women are at the forefront—not just as patients but as the passionate professionals leading the way. This dynamic, female-led practice in Marin proudly features Lexi Sherer PA-C, and Sally Sherrard PA-C, whose priority is providing individually tailored treatments that deliver refreshed, yet undetectable, results. Specializing in nonsurgical procedures, they blend artistry and precision in a welcoming, patient-centered environment. Using medical grade skincare and collagen-boosting treatments like Sculptra, Lasers, Regenerative Therapies, Microneedling, and DiamondGlow Microdermabrasion, they focus on skin rejuvenation and long-term skin health. When it comes to injectables like Botox and Filler, they embrace a ‘less is more’ philosophy, ensuring each patient achieves results that are refined, natural, and effortlessly beautiful. Our providers also offer anti-aging IV Therapies to promote wellness, hydration, and immune function. As trusted aesthetic leaders in Marin with a combined experience of over 15 years, Lexi and Sally remain dedicated to delivering the safest and most effective treatments, ensuring patients are treated with both the expertise and genuine care they deserve. Both Lexi and Sally live in Marin with their families and are so grateful to serve the Marin community.
599 Sir Francis Drake Blvd Suite 300, Greenbrae, CA 415.915.9000 l sieberplasticsurgery.com
Faces of Specialists in Marvin, Fleetwood & Skylights
Collier Windows and Doors Comes to Marin
COLLIER WINDOWS AND DOORS, Northern California’s leading installing dealer for Marvin, Fleetwood, and skylights, is proud to announce the opening of its new San Rafael showroom. In business since 1976, Collier brings unmatched product knowledge and service to every project. Our expert team—Julio, Clark, Ernesto, Tony and Matt—offers over 100 years of combined experience in windows, doors, skylights, glass railings, and solariums.
We specialize in just a few top-tier brands—so we know them better than anyone. Our focus on in-house installation means everything we sell is
installed with precision and care by our own professionals.
Collier also has a showroom in San Francisco, but this new by-appointment-only location in Marin allows us to serve the North Bay with the same attention to detail and dedication to quality that has defined us for nearly 50 years. To schedule your visit and experience the Collier difference, give us a call today.
41 Simms Street, Unit E, San Rafael, CA 415.920.9720 l colliergroup.com
Face of Family Documentaries
Priya David Clemens, Founder, Keepsake Studios
IMAGINE HAVING A BROADCAST-QUALITY FILM THAT VIBRANTLY CAPTURES THE LIFE STORIES OF THE PEOPLE YOU LOVE MOST.
The Emmy and Murrow award-winning team at Keepsake Studios professionally interviews your loved ones and curates your photos, home videos, and family lore — transforming them into a custom documentary that’s perfect for celebrating anniversaries, milestone birthdays, or retirement. Family history doesn’t disappear overnight. It quietly fades into dusty photo albums, forgotten tapes, and those stories your dad always told but have never been recorded. You’ve thought, “We should really capture this,” more times than you can count, but life is busy with work, kids, aging parents, and an unrelenting calendar.
That’s where we come in.
Recording family history, nearly-forgotten funny moments, and lessons learned along the way, our team gently turns your home into a studio and your loved ones into storytellers. Founder and veteran journalist Priya David Clemens created a film of her father’s life for his 75th birthday. After he passed, watching him laugh again on camera brought her family joy and connection. Keepsake Studios was born from the desire to give other families that same gift. Book by July 31 to receive a $2500 dollar honorarium toward your bespoke film.
keepsakestudios.com
Face of Modern Wealth Management
Michael A. Bristow, MSFA, Managing Partner and Investment Advisor Tamalpais Asset Management, LLC
MICHAEL BRISTOW, MANAGING PARTNER AT TAMALPAIS ASSET MANAGEMENT, believes every client’s wealth has a story that deserves thoughtful guidance, a tailored strategy, and lasting care. A Marin native and former options trader on the Pacific Exchange, Michael transitioned from institutional investing to financial advising to focus on what he values most: helping clients make confident, informed decisions. Through TAM’s Total Wealth Management approach, he helps clients navigate their full financial picture, with a focus on strategically integrating alternative investments into diversified portfolios. From identifying opportunities in
venture capital, private equity, and private shares to commercial real estate and options strategies, each element works together to build long-term security. As President of the Larkspur Chamber of Commerce, Michael is also dedicated to his community. Whether advising families, supporting business owners, or leading local initiatives, he brings the same core commitment: to preserve what matters most and help clients shape what’s next. To learn more or schedule a consultation, visit tamalpaisam.com.
900 Larkspur Landing Circle, Suite 100, Larkspur, CA 415.723.8300 l tamalpaisam.com
Faces of Marin’s Finest Cannabis
Monica Gray, COO and Adam Fong, CEO, of Nice Guys Delivery
FINDING PREMIUM CANNABIS PRODUCTS shouldn’t be complicated. That’s why Monica Gray founded Nice Guys Delivery—to bring safe, high-quality cannabis directly to Marin County customers with ease and discretion. Since 2015, her team has provided expert guidance, exceptional service and a carefully curated selection of trusted products. “Our customers deserve a seamless experience, from ordering to delivery,” Monica says. As a leader in the industry, she also fights for fair regulations that keep legal cannabis businesses thriving. With Nice Guys Delivery, customers get more than just cannabis—they get reliability, education and a commitment to their well-being.
415.855.5914 I niceguysdelivery.com
Face of Luxury Homes and Interiors
Leigha Heydt, Founder Heydt Designs Inc
AT HEYDT DESIGNS, Leigha Heydt leads with a rare blend of empathy and expertise, offering a design process rooted in care, curiosity, and attentive listening. For Leigha, a home is more than shelter—it’s a sanctuary. “It’s where children play, families celebrate, friends gather, and ideas are born,” she reflects. “It’s the setting for our daily lives and the springboard for everything we do. What could matter more?” With over 30 years of experience in luxury residential design and construction, Leigha brings a distinctive edge as both an interior designer and licensed general contractor—a combination that’s as uncommon as it is powerful.
Her technical foundation informs every project, enriching the creative vision with a practical fluency in construction. Central to her process is clear, detailed communication—from precise construction drawings to thoughtful specifications—ensuring seamless collaboration with builders. The result? A smoother experience for clients, and homes that are as functional as they are beautiful. At Heydt Designs, it’s not just about design—it’s about designing well-being.
31 Starbuck Drive, Muir Beach, CA 415.847.4707 l heydtdesigns.com
Face of Empowerment: Inspiring Change
Helen Abe, Senior Vice President Financial Advisor
MY FAVORITE QUOTE FROM C.S. LEWIS IS:
“You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.” As a financial advisor and teacher, I empower women through my Wi$e Up course, helping them gain financial skills and believe in their dreams. As a proud Rotary member (for over 20 years) I have supported local and global projects. I helped establish a Rotary Club in San Francisco’s Chinatown and am involved in a water sanitation project in Uganda, supporting children’s tuition and helping women survivors of violence gain vocational skills. Through my service, I strive to give back, empowering others to create lasting change.
Investment and insurance products offered through RBC Wealth Management are not insured by the FDIC or any other federal government agency, are not deposits or other obligations of, or guaranteed by, a bank or any bank affiliate, and are subject to investment risks, including possible loss of the principal amount invested.
RBC Wealth Management
300B Drakes Landing Road, Suite 155, Greenbrae, CA
415.445.8468
us.rbcwealthmanagement.com/helen.abe
RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, registered investment adviser and Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC.
Face of Tile and Stone Fabrication
Martha Bodell, North Coast Tile & Stone
NORTH COAST TILE AND STONE serving the North Bay for over 30 years, offers an open and direct dialogue with homeowners to best serve their needs and wants. By doing all of the work in house, they guarantee the workmanship and final product to be exactly their client’s vision.
NCTS provides award winning service to their clients with their dedicated team of 5 designers, the most talented tile and stone craftsmen along with the largest stone slab yard in the North Bay and gorgeous tile showroom that will bring your projects from idea to reality.
Martha leads the showroom team in working with architects, contractors, designers and homeowners with a confident, thoughtful and professional attitude. NCTS is a one stop shop that offers design and installation services, as well as a wide variety of stone and tile. One client said, “Being in Martha’s showroom is like being in her own home. The care and time that was taken with my project made us feel like family.” Open Monday thru Friday 8:30 to 5:00 and Saturday 10:00 to 3:00.
3854 Santa Rosa Ave, Santa Rosa, CA 707.586.2064 I nctile.com
Face of Comprehensive Financial Planning
Eric Aanes, Managing Director & SVP Financial Advisor
BASED IN LARKSPUR WITH ADDITIONAL OFFICES in Montclair Village and Folsom, The Central Bay Area Teams of Wealth Enhancement offer customized investment strategies and comprehensive planning tailored to each client’s unique situation. Our team of local advisors is backed by a roundtable of specialists including CPA’s, CFA’s and a dedicated Trust Department. This collaborative approach is the cornerstone of our long-term success. We have been serving high net worth families and institutions throughout Marin and across the country for over 20 years.
Whether you’re seeking a financial review or a comprehensive plan, Eric and the Central Bay Area Team are ready to help you navigate your financial journey with confidence and clarity. Advisory services offered through Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services, LLC, a registered investment advisor and affiliate of Wealth Enhancement Group®
Face of Local Expertise in Tahoe Truckee Real Estate
Carmen Carr, Engel & Völkers Truckee
LOCAL ROOTS, REAL INSIGHT: With over 22 years living and working in Truckee-Tahoe, I don’t just know the market—I help shape it. From leading the Tahoe Sierra Board of Realtors to building community networks, my focus is people-first and results-driven. Strategy Meets Heart: Whether you’re seeking a cozy first cabin or your dream mountain estate, I tailor every step to your values, vision, and lifestyle. My approach is grounded in trust, clarity, and connection.
Here, Even When You’re Not: Buying from a distance? I make the process easy and personal—offering virtual tours, honest guidance, and constant
communication so you feel confident every step of the way. Sustainable Living, Thoughtfully Matched: Passionate about eco-conscious living? So am I. As a longtime local, I help you find homes that reflect your commitment to the environment and love for the mountains. More Than a Transaction: Real estate isn’t just business—it’s deeply personal. Let’s find the space that fits your story and fuels your next great adventure.
Carmen Carr
530.448.1643 l Serving Truckee & Lake Tahoe CarmenCarr.com | DRE #01399136
Face of Gifted Education
Daniel Ezell, Founder & Curriculum Director, Chronos Academy
DANIEL EZELL AND HIS WIFE CELESTE have created the school they wish they could have attended. Growing up gifted was hard. “For me school was a waste of time, an obstacle to my own learning goals.” Later as tutors they met many gifted yet unengaged students and realized the problem was systemic. It only worsened when California defunded Gifted and Talented Education in 2013. Even the most successful students were struggling to maintain a healthy curiosity and intrinsic drive to develop their gifts. “When I learned that Marcus Persson created Minecraft as the game he himself wanted to play, I set about creating a school for my younger
self,” said Daniel. “We composed a curriculum that connects the most interesting discoveries throughout human history to workshop projects, songs, movement, even math, science and writing assignments.” It worked! Since their launch in 2016, Chronos Academy has grown into a thriving TK-8 independent school in southern Larkspur where gifted students make meaningful connections to develop their curiosity.
110 Magnolia Avenue, Larkspur, CA 415.383.2283 l chronos.academy
Face of Marin’s Leading Medical and Wellness Spa
Thena Holmen, RN, Skin Suite Marin
PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES OF AESTHETIC INNOVATION, Thena became the first in the Bay Area to introduce the world’s most advanced laser, the Fotona Dynamis Pro 4D ® . This laser revolutionized nonsurgical facial rejuvenation with minimal to no downtime. Known as the Fotona Center of Excellence, she has performed over 1000 transformative treatments on both men and women. Each treatment is customized to your skin’s unique needs restoring youthful vitality.
Continuing her commitment to cutting-edge technology, Thena has expanded her clinic’s offerings to include the powerful StarWalker ® for
advanced pigment correction including melasma and tattoo removal, and the StarFormer ® for noninvasive muscle toning and pelvic floor rehabilitation.
Thena remains at the forefront of aesthetic medicine. Her passion for innovation, combined with clinical expertise and heartfelt care make her the most trusted authority in nonsurgical skincare solutions.
Dr. Anat Sapan, Medical Director 415.881.6001 I skinsuitemarin.com 100 Shoreline Highway, Suite 215B, Mill Valley, CA
Face of Artistic Boudoir
Q: WHAT IS BOUDOIR PHOTOGRAPHY?
A: Boudoir, translated to “bedroom” from French, was also known as a woman’s changing or “pouting” room—a private place to be emotional, sensual, and fully embodied. Boudoir portraiture tells this deeply personal story.
Q: What makes your work unique?
A: I’m in devotion to Beauty, in all its raw and radiant forms. I also love photographing women with flowers—there’s something potent about that feminine expression. Though I’m a maximalist at heart, boudoir has taught
me to embrace minimalist moments. A single light, a quiet pose, a breath of vulnerability—these are often the most powerful.
Q: Who books a boudoir session?
A: Women come to me for many reasons, but often for milestone events: a wedding, a breakup, a birthday, a promotion, a fitness journey, a self-love journey, or just because it’s time to celebrate themselves for no reason at all.
1123 Gravenstein Hwy S, Sebastopol, CA 707.702.1818 l alycecroftboudoir.com
Alyce Croft
Faces of A Holistic Approach to Wellness
Yngvar
Hvistendahl, M.D. and the Plastic Surgery Specialty Group
AT PLASTIC SURGERY SPECIALTY GROUP & MEDSPA, we combine aesthetics, health, and science-backed wellness to help individuals look, feel, and function at their best.
Credentialed Weight Management - Led by Dr. Yngvar Hvistendahl, our program uses FDA-approved Semaglutide and Wegovy, along with lab work, consults, and InBody 580 analysis to track fat loss, hydration, and muscle retention.
Sustainable Results - We support long-term success with EmSculpt for muscle tone, B12 for energy, Glutathione for detox, and optional
testosterone therapy to enhance stamina, focus, and vitality.
Now Offering IV Therapy - Our custom drips boost hydration, immunity, energy, and anti-aging with ingredients like NAD+, Myers’ Cocktail, B12, Glutathione, and Testosterone—sourced from a California-based accredited lab.
Redefining Wellness - We deliver clean, credentialed care in a trusted, fully accredited environment—producing real, lasting results from the inside out. 350 Bon Air Road, Suite 300, Greenbrae, CA 415.925.2880 l psspecialists.com
Faces of Designer Cinema
Christian and Camilla Meoli, Owners of Cinelounge ® Tiburon
WELCOME TO CINELOUNGE® TIBURON, a family-owned gem nestled in the heart of Marin County, California. Immerse yourself in the magic of cinema as our state-of-the-art screens showcase a captivating selection of first-run films and beloved classics and eclectic special events. With luxury designer seating, boasting a modern 70’s aesthetic, and a true lounge experience, our cinema invites you into a charming Movie Mansion on Main Street with three auditoriums, adorned by owners infectious with a love for the art of film.
Indulge in a delectable menu of gourmet burgers, chicken and waffle skewers, a dozen selections of red or white curated wines from local vineyards plus ten selections of beer. From movie-themed parties to sports games and private events featuring live music and special guests Christian and Camilla’s dedication to supporting local creatives and community organizations is present with every visit.
Cinelounge® Tiburon is an unforgettable experience. Join us and let the enchantment unfold.
40 Main Street, Tiburon, CA 415.797.6976 I cineloungefilm.com @cineloungetiburon
Face of Restaurant PR
Kevin Blum, Founder, The Marin Dish
WHEN MARIN’S RESTAURANTS WANT TO PACK THE HOUSE — whether it’s for a buzzworthy winemaker dinner or a can’t-miss happy hour — they turn to one guy: Kevin Blum. As the founder of The Marin Dish (www. themarindish.com), Kevin is the insider locals trust for the latest on where to eat, drink, and play. His popular website and weekly newsletter spotlight the tastiest happenings around town. Before launching The Marin Dish, Kevin served as Yelp’s North Bay Marketing and Community Director and was a regular on KRON-4’s Morning News, where he dished out the Bay Area’s hottest dining trends and events.
A seasoned PR pro, Kevin has helped launch and promote countless restaurants across the Bay Area. His current roster includes beloved spots like Buckeye Roadhouse, Left Bank Brasserie, Piazza D’Angelo, and The Trident. He’s also a proud partner in Corner Bar, a local favorite in downtown Mill Valley. When he’s not out championing Marin’s food scene, you’ll find Kevin hitting the tennis or pickleball courts, walking his dog Pepper, or unwinding with a well-earned cocktail.
1 Weatherly Drive, Mill Valley, CA 415.290.2767 I themarindish.com
DOES IT REALLY WORK?
WE TAKE A DEEPER LOOK AT THE LATEST HEALTH HACKS FLOODING OUR BRAINWAVES VIA THE AIRWAVES.
BY ANN WYCOFF AND MIMI TOWLE
30-30-30 RULE
TikTokkers have been promoting this morning routine that involves eating 30 grams of protein within 30 minutes of waking up, followed by 30 minutes of low intensity exercise like a brisk walk. While there is no danger to this plan, this regime won’t make those skinny jeans fit, on its own.
CASTOR OIL
Influencers and wellness bloggers are promoting castor oil as a cure-all for skin problems, constipation and even weight loss. Thyroid neck wraps, belly button doses, eyelash conditioning – take your pick. Taken orally, castor oil is a natural laxative. Placing it on the belly (navel pulling) is an ancient Ayurvedic practice. But can it really stop bloating, IBS and detox the liver? Sorry folks, no medical evidence supports any of this (which is what alternative thinkers thrive on).
BERBERINE
Touted as “Nature’s Ozempic” on TikTok, berberine went viral recently, but it’s certainly nothing new, as it’s been used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. And while it may reduce blood sugar, no studies have proved it to be a successful weight loss drug.
BIOCHARGERS
The Japanese made forest bathing all the rage (hello walking in nature) but now Biochargers are popping up in gyms and wellness spas so people can absorb nature’s natural energies for recovery, rejuvenation and cell optimization while inside. Rooted in bioenergetic and quantum physics, the evidence for their effects is anecdotal and lacks scientific studies. And at $15k a pop, it’s an expensive whim.
EARTHING
This trend, also known as grounding, calls for connecting with the Earth’s natural electrical field by walking barefoot each morning in the grass, soil or sand and has quickly morphed into a bevy of consumer products. Can the transfer of electrons from earth to the body really reduce inflammation, improve sleep, increase energy and reduce the negative impact of EMFs? The answer appears to be “ yes ” – but save your money and just go outside.
FACE COLD PLUNGE
Plunging your head into a giant bowl of ice water is another TikTok trend with claims that this act calms you down or addresses anxiety. Truthfully, this ice bath dunk can stimulate and activate the vagus nerve which helps regulate heart rate, digestion and breathing. And if the vagus slows the heart rate you will most likely feel calm. Dunk away!
FUNCTIONAL WATER
From vitamin-infused to alkaline, we’ve seen a steady flow of H2O products but this new sparkling water is a cut above the rest. Good Idea is fortified with amino acids, chromium picolinate and minerals like zinc, designed to improve your metabolic health and combat glucose sugar spikes. Developed by Swedish food scientists with PhDs (and the man who created Oatly) as well as Marin’s Doug Carlson, this tasty fizz reduces blood sugar spikes by 25% proven in legit clinical trials.
MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE (MLD)
The ancient Ayurvedic practice of dry brushing or Garshana to stimulate the lymphatic system is age old, but influencers are barking up a storm and demonstrating lymph drainage techniques all over social media. And it works! Hack: Do this practice while in the sauna so you stimulate the lymph and really sweat it out in the heat. And better yet, take some activated charcoal while in the sauna to further absorb toxins.
MINI METABOLISM SPIKE WORKOUTS
While circuits and High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) are pervasive, a new focus on short exercise blasts are a trend in the fitness world. Welcome to your routine 10-minute workouts, six days a week. Studies show it can be the equivalent to a moderate 60-minute workout. Sign us up!
RAPAMYCIN
This bacterium, discovered on Rapa Nui (Easter Island) in 1964, stands as the most exciting longevity discovery for its ability to extend lifespan in myriad organisms, especially mice. Studies show rapamycin mimics caloric restriction causing autophagy. Early adopters like everyone’s favorite longevity guru Peter Attia are hopeful about its powers, but there’s not enough data to prove positive effects like increased lifespan for humans. Stay tuned.
From panels, mats and masks to lamps, wands and wraps, the red light therapy craze is still going strong. Originally developed by NASA to grow plants and heal wounds in space, RLT involves wavelengths of light penetrating the skin and stimulating the mitochondria with benefits like collagen growth, skin damage healing and wrinkle and age spot reduction, these claims have been supported by reputable institutes. But claims RLT reduces pain are under scrutiny as after thousands of studies there are no definitive results. So get your glow on but don’t count on these often expensive fancy devices to diminish your aches and pains. Note: Protective eye wear is a must as to not damage your retinas.
STARING INTO THE SUN
Former neurosurgeon and founder of the Kruse Longevity Center, Dr. Jack Kruse believes humans should watch every morning sunrise for better health. A tall order indeed. Kruse believes in aligning the human body with the rhythms of the earth, that sunlight controls the circadian mechanism of skin cells, and that blue light from all of our screens is beyond damaging. A gentle way to absorb UV light is from watching the sunrise. He’s a controversial, out-of-the-box thinker worth exploring.
ZAPPING ZOMBIE CELLS
Mr. BulletProof Coffee Dave Asprey is now all over social media promoting Qualia, a new senolytic supplement that targets “Zombie cells.” AKA senescent cells, these damaged cells have stopped dividing but don’t die off normally, lingering in the body. The accumulation of senescent cells has been linked to various age-related diseases. Research is still new but promising.
IS THIS STILL A THING?
EIGHT DAILY GLASSES OF WATER
Forever we have heard about the importance of hydrating and drinking water all day. Better than following a standard eight glasses a day, a simple rule is to drink half of your body weight in ounces. Thus someone weighing 150 pounds would drink 75 ounces of water or about nine cups.
BREATHWORK
Backed by both ancient traditions (like pranayama in yoga) and modern science, conscious breathing techniques are legit. Focused breathwork can slow down the nervous system, lowering cortisol and activating the parasympathetic (“rest and digest”) state, increase dopamine and serotonin, improve lung capacity, heart health and more.
CELERY JUICE
The Medical Medium has a cult following, a waitlist to see the psychic healer, best selling books, and a lot of anecdotal evidence for miraculous recoveries and wellness. His protocols include a daily intake of fresh celery juice to cleanse the liver. He claims celery juice rapidly speeds up digestion and helps break down old undigested fats and proteins. In particular, celery juice imbibers seem to have great success with skin issues, mostly likely benefiting from cleaning up their diets with his whole food and juicing protocols. Is it a magic bullet? No, it’s a healthy habit!
CHIA SEEDS
People have been touting Chia seeds for years but these tiny powerhouses still deliver a good dose of Omega 3s, fiber, calcium and antioxidants. They support heart health, digestive function and bone strength. Add them to your smoothie or make chia pudding. Why not?
COLD PLUNGE / CRYOTHERAPY
For years athletes have employed cold exposure to alleviate soreness and muscle pain, aid recovery and counteract inflammation. Science backs short term benefits like reduced inflammation and soreness, but more research is needed for other claims. There are cardiovascular risks to cold plunging so check with your doctor first.
DIGESTIVE ENZYMES
As our stomach’s Hydrochloric acid diminishes as we age, digestive enzymes can be a smart addition to your regime. Low hydrochloric acid can lead to indigestion, malnutrition and sometimes bacterial overgrowth. Fortunately, hypochlorhydria is relatively simple to test and treat.
DOSE
These pricey shots are loaded with turmeric, milk thistle and dandelion to aid in liver support milk thistle’s flavonoid called silymarin protects the liver from toxins and is used in treatment for cirrhosis, while tumeric’s curcumin has been studied for its potential to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the liver. But in truth, none of these liver detoxifying products have been approved by the FDA nor have they been adequately tested in clinical trials. Note: Substantial research points to legit benefits of curcumin in turmeric, but make sure you take it with black pepper or piperine to fully get the goods.
HANGOVER CURES
Supplements are being sold all over the internet to mitigate the effects of overindulging in alcohol. There’s no definitive scientific evidence to support their effectiveness as hangover cures, nor do they make alcohol consumption any safer. Some are also filled with electrolytes to rehydrate the body or charcoal to absorb toxins, which should make you feel better.
FIGHT MEDICARE DENIALS WITH A MEDICARE EXPERT
Mason Medicare Advocates
MASONMEDICARE.COM NOVATO, CA 415.596.5277
Did Medicare deny your claim or prior authorization? Have other problems with Medicare? With 20 years of experience at CMS, the Federal Medicare agency, Julie Mason knows the system inside and out. Let her help you file a strong appeal to overturn denials for the care you deserve. She simplifies the process and fights for your rights. Free 30-minute consultation.
DR. STEFAN LOWENSTEIN, M.D.
Aesthetic Dermatology and Skin Cancer
535 MILLER AVE, MILL VALLEY, CA 415.383.5475 BEAUTYBEFOREAGE.COM
Aesthetic Dermatology and Skin Cancer is Marin County’s premier dermatology practice! Dr. Stefan Lowenstein, M.D.—a board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon—personally performs every procedure. Our full-service practice offers general, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology, including lasers, fillers, neurotoxins, CoolSculpting, Mohs surgery, and more. Call today to schedule your appointment!
EVA E CLAIBORNE BEAUTY AND WELLNESS
Eva Claiborne
86 B MAIN ST, HISTORIC ARK ROW, TIBURON CA 415.497.3635 TIBURONSKINCARE.COM
Master Aesthetician and Perioperative Aesthetic Specialist
Eva Claiborne celebrates 30 years of skincare and postoperative support at her Tiburon-based practice. Trained in Hungary, she brings a European philosophy of daily care and personalized regimens, seeing skincare as essential, not indulgent. Additionally, she founded TITOK Naturals®, a natural line inspired by Hungarian beauty traditions. Learn more and book a complimentary skincare consultation at tiburonskincare.com.
JENNIFER FORSHAN, FOUNDER Haus of Marin
29 FIRST STREET SUITE 100, CORTE MADERA, CA 415.393.2913 HAUSOFMARIN.COM
Founder Jennifer Forshan opened Haus of Marin with the goal of offering high-quality MedSpa services in a down-toearth environment. Jen is a highly experienced aesthetic provider who has studied under industry leaders, including receiving advanced training in lip enhancement under Julie Horne in Norway. Her clients say that the results of her treatments are second-to-none.
ERIN SHALLAT
Private Chef Services & Nutrition Education
EKSHALLAT@YAHOO.COM
415.845.5633 ERINSHALLAT.COM
As a distinguished culinary artist and nutrition expert, Erin brings a unique fusion of health and flavor to your table. Begin with a detailed health and nutritional assessment. Erin crafts a tailored nutrition plan based on your unique health needs and preferences, setting the foundation for a customized wellness journey. Weekly food delivery. Call now for an assessment.
619 E BLITHEDALE AVE, SUITE A, MILL VALLEY, CA ELEVATEMARIN.COM @ELEVATEMARIN 415.900.4504
Founded in 2022, Elevate Aesthetics & Wellness is a boutique MedSpa specializing in advanced regenerative therapies that support long-term skin health and aesthetic refinement. Founded by Torrey Higgins, NP, and Lauren Marini, RN, and managed by Sararose Benham, our team brings over 20 years of experience in aesthetics and wellness.
We offer personalized treatment plans featuring Sculptra, Morpheus8, lasers, peptide therapies, vitamin injections, and medically supervised GLP-1 weight loss programs. These regenerative modalities are complemented by expertly administered Botox and dermal fillers for natural, balanced results. Recently, we’ve partnered with Balance Marin to offer specialized hormone therapy and perimenopause support.
We prioritize patient education, safety, and naturallooking outcomes in every treatment.
SHANNON GOTHAM GOTHAM WELLNESS
131 CAMINO ALTO, STE G. MILL VALLEY, CA
415.405.5001 GOTHAM-WELLNESS.COM
Offering bioenergetic healing using the Electro-Equiscope®, the most effective energy-delivered therapeutic device available for reducing pain and accelerating healing. Quickly reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and increase cellular energy. Get relief from fatigue, pain, disease, brain fog and repair bone, tissue, and nerve damage. Clients with acute or chronic issues notice results after the first sessionenergy is everything.
OUT ABOUT
Community Ongoings
Fairs, fests, music and other excellent events.
Sonoma County Hot Air Balloon Classic
CALENDAR
It’s summertime and Marin County is celebrating in style. Outdoor festivals, Fourth of July festivities and countless events are all happening this month.
EDITED BY DONNA BERRY GLASS
INDEPENDENCE DAY
JULY 4 Corte Madera/Larkspur Parade
Marin’s twin cities collaborate on this celebration. Follow up the parade at the Town Center outdoor marketplace for food stalls and kid’s activities. cortemadera.org
JULY 4 AND SUNDAYS Golden Gate Park
Bandshell Concerts Skip the parades and head to Golden Gate Park for a free concert of American music. goldengateparkband.org
JULY 4 Novato Independence Day Parade
“The Greatest Town on Earth” is the theme of this year’s parade down Novato’s Grant Avenue. Wave to classic cars, festive floats and marching bands. novatoparade.com
JULY 4 Ross Parade and Picnic Dress up Fido for the Patriotic Pooch contest and buckle up for a parade and afternoon community picnic at Ross Commons. townofrossca.gov
JULY 4 Sausalito Fireworks and Parade
Independence Day in Sausalito is a daylong party, with a parade and picnic by day and fireworks show by night. sausalito.gov
FESTIVALS & FAIRS
JULY 2–6 Marin County Fair Picture it: a corndog in hand, fireworks in the sky and R&B girl group TLC onstage telling you not to go chasing waterfalls. The yearly county fair returns with music, barnyard animals, contests and a “Bug-tastic” theme. marinfair.org
Petaluma Art & Garden Festival
JULY 5–6 Fillmore Jazz Festival This free annual music fest in San Francisco’s “Harlem of the West” was on the line until a benefactor stepped in at the last minute. See five stages of jazz across 12 city blocks. fillmorejazzfest.com
JULY 5–20 Festival Napa Valley A fest that spans music, wine experiences, culinary escapades and even free concerts, Festival Napa Valley has something for everyone this summer. festivalnapavalley.org
JULY 13 Petaluma Art and Garden
Festival Yes, you can pick up your garden needs and seedlings at this outdoor fest, but you can also dance to live music and browse the wares of bustling downtown Petaluma. petalumadowntown.com
JULY 26 San Rafael Festival of the Arts San Rafael adds a new festival to its repertoire of summer bashes, featuring street painting and more art set against the backdrop of the Falkirk Cultural Center’s Victorian mansion. cityofsanrafael.org
ARTS, LECTURES & THEATER
JULY 17–20 ODC/Dance Summer Sampler
See the world premiere of new works at the contemporary dance powerhouse, ODC/Dance in San Francisco. odc.dance
JULY 17–AUG 3 SF Jewish Film Festival
The largest and longest running Jewish film festival in the world, this event showcases bold films every year, exploring and expressing Jewish stories. jfi.org
JULY 19–AUG 3 Seeds of Time Festival
If you love theater, then get a ticket — or two, or six — to Marin Shakespeare’s daring new festival. See reimaginings of classic theater pieces like Othello, workshopped over a week for final public presentations. marinshakespeare.org
JULY 24 Keena Turner Four-time Super Bowl champion and current vice president of the 49ers Keena Turner headlines the final Novato Speaker Series event of the season. Hear stories from the team’s electric 1980s years — like how Turner played Super Bowl XVI with chickenpox. novatospeakerseries.com
MUSIC
JULY 18 Rhiannon Giddens and the Old-Time Revue A singular folk musician, Rhiannon Giddens digs deep into the genre’s history for her stirring original tunes. Hear Giddens play the Green Center’s summer concert series, with
seating indoors and on the lawn. gmc.sonoma.edu
JULY 19 Beatles in the Park The San Anselmo tradition returns to Creek Park with Joe Bagale and Friends playing the music of the Fab Four. sananselmoarts.org
JULY 25 New West Guitars Listen to first-class jazz in the Old St. Hilary’s chapel in Tiburon, featuring the sounds of LA-based jazz guitar trio, New West Guitars. From electric to acoustic, jazz standards to pop covers, their virtuosity and precision shine in concert. landmarkssociety.com
MUSEUMS
THROUGH JULY 6 Paul McCartney Photographs 1963–64: Eyes of the Storm It’s your last chance to see the intimate photos of a young Paul McCartney experiencing America through the lens of superstardom and a simple Pentax camera.
famsf.org
THROUGH AUG 17 Wayne Thiebaud: Art Comes From Art You probably know Thiebaud’s colorful cakes, but did you know the Northern California artist was a self-described art “thief”? This Legion of Honor exhibition presents dozens of Thiebaud’s reinterpretations of artworks new and old. famsf.org
OUTDOOR FUN
JULY 12 Morgan Horse Ranch 55th Anniversary Just across from Bear Valley Visitor Center, Morgan Horse Ranch raises horses that help rangers traverse Point Reyes. You’re invited to their birthday celebration, featuring buttermaking, horseshoe painting, leatherworking and more. go.nps.gov/MHR55
JULY 13 Pancakes on Mount Tam Hike or bike up to West Point Inn for their monthly pancake breakfast, happening
Novato Fourth of July Parade
every second Sunday until October. westpointinn.com
JULY 19 Mission Avenue Walking Tour
See the historic homes of San Rafael in a new light with this tour along “Mansion Row” by the Marin History Museum. A simple $10 covers the romp through time with stories of scandalous characters gone by. marinhistory.org
EVENTS
JULY 11–13 & 25–27 NASCAR and NHRA Race Weekends Speed fiends can look forward to several races happening at Sonoma Raceway this month, with three different NASCAR series and a whole weekend for the lightning fast NHRA Sonoma Nationals. sonomaraceway.com
JULY 12 Bastille Day Festival For a taste of France in San Francisco, join the party at Embarcadero Plaza for la fete nationale. Dig into a croissant, play a round of petanque, free a mime from their invisible box and enjoy a sunny day under the tricolore. celebratebastilledaysf.org
JULY 13 French Market Marin Say “oui, oui” to more French fun over at the Marin Civic Center for the monthly antique fair. thefrenchmarketmarin.com
JULY 14 & 25 Golden State Valkyries The NBA season may be over, but there’s still basketball happening in the Bay Area. Catch the WNBA’s newest team in their debut season, with games at Chase Center through September. valkyries.wnba.com
JULY 19 & 20 Hot Air Balloon Classic
Rise and shine, then rise again, for Sonoma County’s yearly hot air balloon classic. The day begins early with a 4 a.m. morning glow show, then continues through the morning with balloon rides, food trucks and fun. schabc.org
ORGANIC ORGANIC CORE CORE to the
BY LYNDA BALSLEV
Tomato Talk FARMERS MARKET FINDS
AT THE HEIGHT OF SUMMER, sun-kissed tomatoes take center stage at the farmers market. They dazzle with an array of bright colors and varietals on offer. From the deep and murky wine-stained heirlooms, to the juicy acidity of brilliant Early Girls, to the refreshing sweetness of tiny Sun Golds, every variety contributes to a kaleidoscope of colors and flavor.
This recipe celebrates the beauty and diversity of peak season tomatoes, letting them shine as the stars of a light and fresh appetizer, amplified by a few thoughtful ingredients. Best of all it encourages indulging in a generous sampling of tomato varieties to create a dish that not only tastes delicious but is visually appealing. Inspired by the classic ingredients of an Italian caprese salad — juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella and fragrant basil — this dish reimagines the salad with a little knifework and creative layering, transforming the traditional salad into a colorful and refined appetizer that’s both easy to serve and fun to eat.
Think of it as a savory summer parfait: a vibrant medley of diced tomatoes, topped with a luscious dollop of buffalo mozzarella and delicate ribbons of fresh basil, then laced with a velvety balsamic reduction. A crunchy crostini plank serves as both a garnish and tasty utensil for scooping the tomatoes and soaking up the sweet juices.
TOMATO TARTARE “CAPRESE”
Serves 6 to 8
Syrup:
⅔ cup balsamic syrup
1 garlic clove, lightly smashed
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper
Crostini:
6 to 8 slices of baguette, sliced on the diagonal, about 4 inches in length and ¼-inch thick
Extra virgin olive oil
1 large garlic clove, lightly smashed
Kosher salt
Tomatoes:
1½ to 2 pounds assorted tomatoes, seeded, cut in ¼-inch dice
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus extra for garnish
2 fresh buffalo mozzarella rounds, each about 4 ounces
6 to 8 basil leaves
Syrup: Bring the vinegar, garlic, lemon juice, salt and pepper to boil in a small saucepan. Simmer until reduced by about half and slightly syrupy, 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Discard the garlic clove. Transfer the syrup to a bowl and cool to room temperature.
Crostini: Preheat the oven broiler or grill. Lightly brush baguette slices with olive oil. Rub each slice with the garlic clove and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Arrange in one layer on a baking tray and broil until lightly golden on both sides, turning once. (Or grill until lightly charred on both sides.) Set aside.
Tartare: In a bowl, combine the tomatoes, oil, salt and black pepper, gently stirring the mixture. Taste for seasoning. If desired, add pinch of sugar.
Divide the tomatoes between serving glasses or small bowls. Tear the mozzarella into 6 to 8 chunks, then place a chunk in each glass over the tomatoes. Drizzle with 1 to 2 teaspoons syrup.
Chiffonade the basil by stacking the leaves, rolling them lengthwise and thinly slicing the roll. Sprinkle the basil over the tomatoes. Garnish with black pepper and serve with the crostini.
DINE
CORTE MADERA
Burmatown Asian
Though the menu remains largely the same (that tea leaf salad! Those bao!) at the location down the street from the original, the addition of a grill boosts the menu with dishes like kalbi ribs or smoked salmon collars. A long bar on one side of the room serves wine and beer and the front windows slide open for easy access to a large patio. 18 Tamalpais Ave, 415.985.5060; burmatown.com
$
Flores Mexican
With an emphasis on regional Mexican dishes and flavors sourced from family recipes, the menu is based on California seasonality and revolves around gluten-free masa. The daily-made tortillas are a highlight. 301 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.500.5145; floressf.com
BB HH
Marin Joe’s Italian
A mainstay for a reason: the menu calls to you with garlic bread, a calamari sandwich and mesquite-grilled prime rib. Sautéed classics of the ItalianAmerican canon as well as oysters doré and pastas have withstood the test of time. 1585 Casa Buena Dr,
415.924.2081; marinjoes restaurant.com
RH Marin American
Ride up the goldenhued elevator to the top floor restaurant bedecked in RH style and linger over a shaved vegetable salad, a truffled grilled cheese sandwich on Panorama Bakery sourdough or a namesake RH Burger. This rooftop sunroom and outdoor lounge boasts glass ceilings and walls for an epic view of Mount Tam and a feeling of floating above it all. 1750 Redwood Highway at The Village, 628.266.2040; rh.com
BB
FAIRFAX
Barefoot Cafe
American Chef Tony Senehi’s all-day cafe is known for California-inspired dishes made from local, organic ingredients. Pear almond pancakes and eggs Benedict (ask for “the Brady” to get lox) are popular at breakfast, while a BBQ pulled pork sandwich is a hot seller at lunch. 1900 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.460.2160; barefootcafe.com
BB $
Fradelizio’s Italian
A perennial neighborhood gem, the cozy space welcomes all
with daily specials (fresh local fish, housemade Meyer lemon fettuccine with salmon, cioppino, a Becker Lane organic pork cannelloni) and a Napa Valley wine from the barrel program. 35 Broadway Blvd, 415.459.1618; fradelizios.com
La Gastronomia
Italian Like the town it’s situated in, La Gastronomia is a lively and cozy restaurant best known for its authentic cuisine, fresh ingredients and warm atmosphere. Originally from a coastal town in Italy, owners Elena and her husband Gustavo curate a taste of the Italian coast in the California sun. 123 Bolinas Rd, Fairfax, 415.419.5465; lagastronomiadi porchetta.com
BB $
Sorella Caffe Italian
Run by sisters Sonia and Soyara, Sorella serves fresh Italian with a northern influence. Favorites include the cioppino, butternut squash ravioli, pollo alla Sorella and the garlic bread. 107 Bolinas Rd, 415.258.4520; sorellacaffe.com
$
GREENBRAE / KENTFIELD
Gott’s Roadside
American At its only
Marin outpost, Gott’s features the signature California-inspired dishes the restaurant is known for (burgers — regular, ahi and Impossible — shakes, salads and fries) as well as a 30-foot-long pine table for community-style eating and an expansive patio out front. 302 Bon Air Center, Greenbrae, 415.785.4233; gotts.com
$
Guesthouse
Californian Jared Rogers, the former executive chef of Picco, heads up the kitchen, partnering
with restaurateur
Dustin Sullivan on this 110-seat space. Look for well-executed California cuisine with weekly specials like Prime Rib on Mondays and fried chicken on Sundays, plus killer cocktails — the Sunburn and Easy Money are local favorites.
850 College Ave, Kentfield, 415.419.5101; guesthousemarin.com
HH
Half Day Cafe
American Tucked away in a setting of intertwining ivy and large open windows, this cafe is the
Burmatown, Corte Madera
quintessential breakfast nook and is also open for brunch and lunch, including coffee drinks, pastries and much more. Enjoy a casual daytime meal inside or out on the patio. 848 College Ave, Kentfield, 415.459.0291; halfdaycafe.net
BB $
Rio Rock Açai Café
Smoothies Açai bowls, like the Carmen Miranda with cacao nibs and peanut butter, and smoothies are at the heart of an all-day café that serves up sandwiches (chicken pesto panini,
lox bagel) and pastas, too. Boba and espresso drinks are coming soon. 860 College Ave, Kentfield; 415.747.8668; riorock acaicafe.com
$
LARKSPUR
Left Bank Restaurant
French This Parisianstyle brasserie by Chef Roland Passot has been serving the community for more than two decades. Whether on the patio, bar or in the elegant main dining room with a huge fireplace, it’s a fun experience. The menu features authentic French cuisine utilizing seasonal, local and organic ingredients. 507 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.3331; leftbank.com
Perry’s on Magnolia American Perry’s on Magnolia has the same classic American cuisine, bustling bar and warm service and
personality the San Francisco original has always been famous for. Plentiful outdoor dining options. Its bar is a perennial Best of the County winner.
234 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.1877; perryssf.com
BB
Rustic Bakery
Californian Organic bread and pastries baked fresh each morning and salads, sandwiches, and soups make this a staple. 2017 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.461.9900 and 1139 Magnolia Ave; 415.925.1556; rusticbakery.com
$
MILL VALLEY
Buckeye Roadhouse
American Oysters Bingo, baby back ribs, and chili-lime “brick” chicken are a few of the comfort-food menu items that have made this classic roadhouse a favorite
Corner Bar
Mediterranean Corner Bar is downtown Mill Valley’s first cocktail lounge… ever! Bring a date or simply come to unwind in the sleek interior, which features two bars plus plenty of window space overlooking the town square. A menu of Mediterranean bites complement Corner Bar’s artfully crafted cocktails.106 Throckmorton Ave, 415.888.8001; cornerbarmv.com
HH
Floodwater
since the ’30s. The dark-wood bar with red leather booths is a popular spot for cocktails, conversations or a light meal. Heated patio seating offers a moment’s respite with a fresh espresso and breakfast burrito from the weekday Buckeye Joe Coffee Kiosk.
American The bustling bar is ideal for savoring a seasonal cocktail or an order of the house’s famous kickin’ fried chicken. The one-dollar happy hour oyster program still operates from 5–6 p.m., Monday–Thursday and the heated outdoor patio is a town hot spot.
44 E Blithedale Ave, 415.381.2500; bungalow44.com
Californian Order a handcrafted “Gold Rush” (Old Forester bourbon, local honey, lemon) at the long 20 seat bar and watch the game on five huge 4K TVs while noshing on pork belly steamed buns, or dive into Shorty’s Tall Reuben. The patio features multiple fire pits.
152 Shoreline Hwy, 415.843.4545; floodwatermv.com
HH $
Paseo Bistro
Californian
The bistro along ‘el paseo’ exudes the same charm as its predecessors with a French-inflected menu from executive chef Sylvain Montassier. That translates into dishes of tuna tartare with chicharron and shiitakes, squid ink linguini with local crab and mussels or a Devil’s Gulch pork chop with crispy spaetzle and cabbage. Sip a classic cocktail in the Paseo bar or savor chocolate fondant with salted caramel ganache in one of the inviting
Piatti Ristorante and Bar Italian A fireplace lounge and open format concept invites lingering over refreshed menu items such as house made ravioli with lemon cream and citrus gremolata, roasted mushroom pizza with taleggio fonduta and black truffle oil or roasted salmon with artichokes and Calabrian chili.
625 Redwood Hwy, 415.380.2525; piatti.com
Playa Mexican
With a chef from Mexico City, Playa’s food offers traditional dishes with modern flavors and presentations. A Little Gem salad sparkles with tomatillo dressing and enchiladas shine from a glossy coating of house made black mole and micro greens. The bar highlights exceptional tequilas and mezcals but the el Slushie and house margarita have legions of fans and are perfect for sipping on the large, heated back patio. Weekend lunch is available.
41 Throckmorton Ave, 415.384.8871; playamv.com
BB HH
Piazza D’Angelo Italian Family owned for over 40 years, Piazza D’Angelo evokes a traditional trattoria dining
experience, including the bustling bar. Enjoy a variety of housemade pastas, meat and seafood dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and gluten-free offerings with organic and locally sourced ingredients. A back patio and newer front patio provide ample outdoor dining space.
22 Miller Ave, 415.388.2000; piazzadangelo.com
BB
Sweetwater Music Hall’s Rock & Rye American Bay Area chef Rick Hackett redesigned the menu to feature South American and New Orleans-inspired dishes with a seasonal focus at Sweetwater Music Hall’s refreshed restaurant. An extensive collection of whiskeys and craft cocktails pays tribute to independent music venues and the 50-seat outdoor patio was redone to reflect how we dine today. 19 Corte Madera Ave, 415.388.3850; sweetwatermusichall.com
BB
Tamalpie Italian
With views of Mt. Tam from the covered, heated patio, this spot known for its local sourcing also features two fireplaces and a full bar serving craft cocktails, wine and beer. The difference is in the dough, small batch, housemade and gluten-free. 477 Miller Ave, 415.388.7437; tamalpiepizzeria.com
American Epic burgers and cocktails, excellent service, signature blue-andwhite gingham tablecloths — expect all of those and more here at Perry’s northernmost location. 224 Alameda Del Prado, 415.506.4212; perryssf.com
BB
SAN ANSELMO / ROSS
Comforts Cafe
American Established in 1986, Comforts has a cozy sit-down cafe, serving breakfast, lunch and weekend brunch. Besides the famous Chinese chicken salad, other winners are the
stuffed pecan-crusted French toast, chicken Okasan (nicknamed “Crack Chicken” by fans), Korean BBQ flank steak and Wor Won Ton soup. 335 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.9840; comfortscafe.com
BB $
Creekside Pizza & Tap Room American
A perennial Best of the County winner known for their artisan pizzas, hearty sandwiches, flavorful pastas and fresh salads, Creekside offers plentiful gluten-free and vegan options too. Their copper bar with a 40-handle selection of craft beer (including gluten-free beer), plus wine and kombucha on tap. 638 San Anselmo Ave,
downtown restaurant features soulful Mediterranean fare for 25+ years. Dinner favorites include cataplana with mussels and chorizo, Middle Eastern-inspired vegetarian platter, Moroccan lamb flatbread, house made pastas and of course, the fattoush salad. An expansive takeout counter offers a wide range of selections for family meals, celebrations or a quick lunch option. 120 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo, 415.457.7700; insalatas.com
of sweet heat. 726 San Anselmo Ave, 415.457.9470; thebaanthai cuisine.com
selection of wine. 3751 Redwood Hwy, 415.492.9100; ristorantelas toscana.com
Valenti & Co.
415.785.4450; creeksidesa.com
Cucina sa Italian Open for lunch, weekend brunch, and dinner six nights a week, come by for homemade pastas, seasonal salads, and wood-fired pizzas that strike a balance between southern Italy and Northern California. Don’t skip the happy hour from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. from Tuesday to Friday, either! 510 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.2942; cucina-sa.com
Insalata’s Mediterranean Award-winning chef Heidi Krahling’s
Kuro Nami Japanese Kitchen Japanese Kuro Nami, which means “black wave,” is a new restaurant from the team behind The Baan Thai Cuisine. There, you’ll find inventive sushi rolls, premium sake and a menu of signature dishes that explore the depth of Japanese cuisine. It’s not just sushi — you can try picks like kani miso (grilled miso paste with crab), or their creamy pasta with tempura softshell crab. 69 Center Blvd, San Anselmo, 415.459.6969; kuro namimarin.com
The Baan Thai Cuisine Thai
Known for its mango sticky rice, crispy corn cakes and The Baan Thai salad, new menu items like fresh spring rolls and steamed dumplings and old favorites such as the tom kha soup entice with fresh flavors and just the right amount
Italian The bright yet cozy indoor space and warmly lit back patio are ideal environments for authentic Italian dishes made with local ingredients. The menu changes daily but look for the carpaccio of beef, the pan-seared Pekin duck and chef Valenti’s famous tower of triple chocolate love at dessert. 337 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.7800; valentico.com
SAN RAFAEL
Cafe del Soul
Californian
Healthy options become addictive at this eatery that now has locations in Tam Junction and San Rafael. Once you stop in for the deliciously fresh quinoa wrap, you’ll want to return to try the chipotle rice bowl. 1408 Fourth St, 415.457.5400; cafedelsoul.net
$
La Toscana
Ristorante & Bar Italian Family owned and operated since 1985, La Toscana completed an extensive interior and exterior renovation, transforming an already popular San Rafael gathering spot into a place for any occasion. The menu features daily specials and classics like gnocchi and carbonara and an ample
Red Rooster Brick Oven American Roasted in the brick oven, then brushed with sweet and spicy garlic sauce, Red Rooster wings are a must-order at an allday Italian American restaurant with a sprinkling of Asian flavors. A thin crust pizza pulled from the brick oven is available at breakfast, too. The buttermilk-fried chicken sandwich with house made chipotle aioli has a dedicated following. 901 B St., 415.234.8414; redroosterbrick oven.com
$
Sol Food Caribbean/Puerto Rican Sol Food whips up traditional Puerto Rican dishes with fresh ingredients. All day favorites include the bistec sandwich, mofongo and other fried plantain dishes, but anything tastes good with a dash of “pique” their signature hot pepper sauce, also for sale by the bottle (as is the lemon-garlic salad dressing). They also have a special menu from “Victor’s Crispy Tacos.” 901 Lincoln Ave, 415.451.4765; solfoodrestaurant.com
$
La Toscana
Ristorante & Bar, San Rafael
SAUSALITO
Copita Mexican Co-owner Joanne Weir, along with Chef Aaron Sabido, presents fresh Mexican fare in the heart of Bridgeway. The everchanging menu is 100 percent gluten-free, masa is prepared and pressed in house for each and every tortilla, and the in-house tequila bar serves over 100 varieties, ideal for crafting your own margarita. Dine at the bar or on the outdoor patio for great people-watching. 739 Bridgeway, 415.331.7400; copitarestaurant.com
BB $ HH
Tony’s
Seafood,Marshall
Fish Seafood
It has been said that this restaurant and fish market launched the sustainable seafood movement, making it the ultimate place for freshly caught, unobjectionable fare. Order any of the day’s offerings — the menu changes — daily but usually has a variation of fish tacos, ceviche and grilled fish. 350 Harbor Dr, 415.331.3474; 331fish.com
Kitti’s Place Thai
This home-style family-run restaurant has been in town for over 20 years. It features California-inspired
favorites like lettuce cups stuffed with chicken and almonds, soft spring rolls and a curried turkey burger. A patio out front gets midday sun. 3001 Bridgeway, 415.331.0390; kittis place.com
$
Poggio Italian
Vitello sliced excruciatingly thin and topped with lemon and tonnato sauce is a singular dish in the hands of executive chef Benjamin Balesteri who creates Northern Italian fare using local and Italian ingrdients. 777 Bridgeway, 415.332.7771; poggiotrattoria.com
BB
The Joinery American
This large waterfront restaurant features a broad patio whose big salads and shareable plates make it a destination for families and other groups. Order at the front, then grab a seat to enjoy the craft beer, Joinery or Impossible burger, rotisserie chicken and other hearty, seasonal fare. 300 Turney St, 415.766.8999; joineryca.com
$
The Trident Seafood Set in a turn-of-thecentury building constructed for the San Francisco Yacht Club, this waterfront restaurant is a shoo-in for date night where every seat has a water view. Famous for musician sightings in the 1970s, the room with the great vibe is now known for supporting local farmers, fishers
and organic food producers in everything from its well-regarded cioppino to a Louie salad with crab or prawns and beerbattered fish and chips. 558 Bridgeway, 415.331.3232; thetrident.net
HH
TIBURON
Caffe Acri Italian
The well-lit corner cafe in downtown Tiburon is a go-to for bikers, city commuters, and locals. Diners will find Italian roast espresso drinks, freshly baked pastries, and eggs for breakfast and a selection of soups, salads and paninis for lunch. A market stacked with pantry items and coffee operates inside the café and outdoor dining is available. 1 Main St, 415.435.8515; caffeeacri.com
BB $
Luna Blu Italian
The seasonal menu incorporates fresh and organic produce, local naturally grown meat and poultry from small farms. The restaurant complies with Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch, so all the seafood is sustainable. A recent expansion tripled the size of the patio to accommodate more diners. In 2014, diners voted Luna Blu one of the Top 100 Neighborhood Gem restaurants in America. 35 Main St, 415.789.5844; luna blurestaurant.com
BB
Malibu Farm
Californian
The latest SoCal-toNorCal culinary import features a homegrown and sustainable ethos in dishes like fennel-rubbed boneless half chicken and soy-ginger hanger steak. Look for yuzu butternut squash linguine with za’atar coconut cream, pizza with a zucchini crust, plus a lobster roll on a hot dog bun. 9 Main St, malibu-farm.com
BB
Petite Left Bank
French A smaller version of the Larkspur original features an all-day menu of French bistro classics. A notable wine list, artisan craft cocktail menu, and spirit-free beverages round out the lively experience. Open daily for lunch and dinner, with weekend brunch on Saturday and Sunday, and daily morning coffee and pastry service coming soon. 1696 Tiburon Blvd, Tiburon; 415.910.1010; petiteleftbank tiburon.com
$
Salt & Pepper
American
From morning’s
Bloody Mary and eggs
Benedict through lunch’s clams bouillabaisse and hamburger to dinner’s crab cakes with jalapeño dipping sauce and skirt steak tacos. 38 Main St, 415.435.3594; saltandpepper tiburon.com
BB
Sam’s Anchor Cafe American Sam’s boathouse feel and boat tie-ups with boatside service are part of its charm but most come for the spiffy white umbrellas and deck chairs on the expansive waterfront patio. All-day cocktails remain a fixture as does the signature cioppino, while offerings like crab toast, a roaming oyster cart, and a raw bar reflect the menu’s enduring seafood focus. 27 Main St, 415.435.4527; samscafe.com
BB HH
Servino Ristorante Italian Chef and owner Angelo Servino highlights organic ingredients in an array of rustic Italian dishes, including house-made pastas, wood-oven pizzas, and seasonal specialties. Located on Ark Row, Servino also prides itself on its extensive sustainable seafood program and deep Italian wine list. 9 Main St, 415.435.2676; servino. com
BB HH
Squalo Vino Wine Bar American Fifteen wines by the glass, 90 by the bottle and a handful of local beers are available at an intimate wine bar and wine shop. Look for rare and hard-tofind bottles to enjoy onsite at one of the bistro tables or from a comfy, velvet-lined club chair or to go. Cheeseboards featuring Rustic Bakery crackers and Cowgirl Creamery’s Mt Tam and a “fish and chips’ plate with caviar from
nearby The Caviar Company are on hand.
34 Main St, Tiburon; 415.889.5585; squalovino.com
HH
The Bungalow Kitchen Californian
A lively social lounge and restaurant from chef Michael Mina and Brent Bolthouse boasts epic views and a menu of seasonal California fare executed by chef Harrison Chernick — crispy Liberty duck wings glazed with Grand Marnier and black pepper, cavatelli cacio e pepe with black truffles, jalapeño shrimp toast — at night. Brunch cocktails pair with sweet potato pancakes and hot chicken and waffles on weekends while the upstairs lounge boasts latenight service (until 12 a.m.), a billiards table, a gas-powered fireplace, and a live DJ on weekends. 5 Main St, 415.366.4088; bungalowkitchen.com
BB HH
The Caprice Californian
Expansive bay views from every seat are just one of many charms after an extensive remodel. The revamped menu of well-crafted comfort food from land (bone-in filet mignon, Colorado lamb chops) and sea (gnocchi with crab, abalone dore), also features classic cocktails and a wine list that leans towards American, Italian and French offerings. Complimentary evening valet provided. 2000 Paradise Drive, 415.435.3400; the
caprice.com
BB HH
The Caviar Co American Belvedere resident Petra Bergstein expanded her San Franciscobased business with a downtown shop and restaurant dedicated to the briny delicacy. Caviar flights, along with Champagne by the glass or bottle and small plates like grilled cheese with truffles, are available to enjoy in their tasting room or to take home. 46A Main Street, Tiburon; 415.889.5168; info.the caviarco.com
Tiburon Tavern Californian Food service at the Lodge at Tiburon is in the hands of Luna Blu’s Renzo and Crystal Azzarello who run the Tiburon Tavern bar, restaurant and other on-site eating opportunities. Executive chef Selvin Vicente is on board to handle the flow from breakfast and brunch through dinner. 1651 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.3133; lodgeattiburon.com
BB HH
WEST MARIN
Nick’s Cove American
This historic, beloved escape and its cozy cottages recently underwent a refresh to maximize enjoyment of the picturesque views from its perch on Tomales Bay. Take a seat outside along the pier, at the boat shack over the water or in the waterfront lounge and enjoy barbecued local
oysters, Dungeness crab mac ’n’ cheese and cocktails incorporating homegrown ingredients. The cozy bar and fireplace in the main dining room makes the most of fog-whipped and rainy days. 23240 Highway 1, Marshall, 415.663.1033; nickscove.com
Rancho Nicasio
American Known for live music and an extensive menu featuring everything from crispy calamari to braised lamb shanks, Rancho Nicasio is open seven days a week, including brunch. Whatever you choose, the outdoor space welcomes all with plenty of shade and space between tables. 1 Old Rancheria Road, Nicasio, 415.662.2219; ranchonicasio.com
BB
Side Street
Kitchen American
The fine-casual eatery led by chef Aaron Wright serves favorites like rotisserie chicken, and porkbelly BLTs as well as wholesome vegetarian fare. This is one of the few spots in West Marin that serves gluten-free beer. The cozy patio is shaded and dog-friendly. 60 Fourth St, Point Reyes Station, 415.663.0303; sidestreet-prs.com
BB
Station House Cafe
American Known for their house made popovers, this cozy cafe is also recognized for fresh oysters, grassfed burgers, and an
“everything fresh, local and homegrown” ethos. Dining in the garden is as popular on weekdays as on the weekends. 11285 CA-1, Point Reyes Station, 415.663.1515; stationhousecafe.com
BB $
Tony’s Seafood
Seafood The crowds come on sunny weekends for the barbecue oysters and amazing views, but the restaurant’s purchase by the Hog Island Oyster Co team meant a refresh of the interior and a spiffed-up menu of seafood pulled from the bay’s waters. 18863 Shoreline Hwy, Marshall, 415.663.1107; tonysseafood restaurant.com
William Tell House
American The oldest continuously operating saloon in Marin makes a mean apple brandy cocktail aptly named for the Swiss folk hero, William Tell (who famously shot an arrow off his son’s head), but the revamped restaurant strives to make its name around food with a seafood chowder made with local cod, a Cobb salad with applewood bacon, and a butcher’s cut of the day sourced from nearby Stemple Creek Ranch and grilled to order. 26955 Highway 1, Tomales, 707.879.2002
Tiburon Tavern, Tiburon
BY DONNA BERRY GLASS
ON SCENE THE
An Evening of Impact Under the Stars
On May 14, Ritter Center hosted Under the Stars at Peacock Gap Clubhouse, raising $200,000 to support Marin’s unhoused neighbors. Attended by more than 200 guests, the night honored Marin Community Foundation’s Rhea Suh for her visionary leadership, celebrated the San Domenico Upper School Interact Club’s outstanding service work for the center, and recognized Ritter Center client and advocate Jalynne Allen for the inspiring hope and resilience she brings to the community.
San Francisco Zoo’s 12-year-old male jaguar, Lamont — the largest big cat in the Americas — was the symbolic guest of honor at a festive celebration held May 4 at The Pines in Sausalito. While Lamont himself stayed home, his “boss,” San Francisco Zoo Executive Director and longtime Sausalito resident Tanya Peterson, was honored with a mayoral proclamation from Sausalito Mayor Joan Cox.
Feline Fame in Sausalito
1 Mark Shotwell and audience; 2 Team at Food Stuff Partners - Ritter Center; 3 Jalynne Allen
1 Greer Westerink, Tanya Peterson, Felecia Gaston
Gatsby Glam for a Good Cause Vivalon’s Soirée d’Élégance dazzled on May 3 with a Great Gatsby speakeasy-themed gala set amid a private classic car museum in San Rafael, raising $450,000 to support its vital meal delivery and healthy aging programs. Over 200 guests enjoyed vintage entertainment, live music and a glamorous nod to the Roaring Twenties.
$1.1M Raised During One Amazing Night 10,000 Degrees raised nearly $1.1 million at its annual ONE Amazing Community gala on April 26, drawing over 450 supporters to the Marin Civic Center Exhibit Hall. The event spotlighted inspiring alumni like Yoel Iskindir and Gonzalo Berluzconi, who shared powerful stories of perseverance, mentorship, and impact. CEO Kim Mazzuca emphasized the nonprofit’s mission to ensure educational equity and opportunity for students from low-income backgrounds — including the 6,200 students who have applied for scholarships in 2025, the highest number in the organization’s 44-year history
1 Dr. Dana Emerson, AC Campbell; 2 Guy Lampard, Suzanne Badenhoop, Sylvia Singh, Charan Singh; 3 Wanden Treanor, Adam Gavzer, Paige Peterson
1 Brenda Shipp, Dr. Jose Chibras-Sainz, Kathie Powell-Chibras
270 Media Celebrates Women Who Inspire
The Alexandrite Suite at Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa in Sausalito provided the perfect backdrop for a stylish celebration of community and female empowerment at Marin Magazine’s annual Celebrating Women event on May 15. More than 100 elegantly dressed guests gathered to toast all the inspiring women featured in May’s issue, which has been dedicated to women for the eighth year in a row.
Presenting sponsor Hayes Valley Medical Esthetics not only provided lavish raffle prizes, but gifted each guest with a generous gift certificate. In-kind sponsors included Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa, Poggio Trattoria and Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars.
1 Lana Gleckman, Linda Behla, Cynthia Bernheim, Melanie Thompson, Kate Ratto; 2 Bre Russell, Sharon Coleman; 3 Sally Sherrard, Lexi Sherer; 4 Marin Magazine Staffers; 5 Michele Kuhns, Sara Alexander; 6 Priya Clemens, Carmen Carr, Michele Affronte; 7 Francesca Guglielmino, Charlotte Bernström; 8 Ivana Jagodic, Vanshika Nachnani, Saskia Thompson, Cassandra Webb; 9 Auctioning Items; 10 Marin Magazine Celebrating Women Party
MARIN HOME
Interior designer Kress Jack’s Mill Valley home is awash in color and character.
BY LOTUS ABRAMS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY R. BRAD KNIPSTEIN Creative
Details
WHAT 2,000-square-foot, four-bedroom, two-and-ahalf-bath 1925 home
WHERE Mill Valley
CONSTRUCTION
Buildrite Bay Area
INTERIOR DESIGN
AFTER RENTING IN MILL VALLEY and San Rafael for more than 15 years and designing homes for countless clients, interior designer Kress Jack finally got the chance to remodel her own home when a fixer-upper in Mill Valley hit the market two years ago. “It was definitely a funky house, especially on the outside, but I was excited,” she recalls. “I actually used to live next door to this house when I was raising my kids, so I already knew everybody on the block.”
Born to a family of creatives, Jack got her start in interior design by chance in 2007 while working at a furniture shop, where a client asked for design advice. After that, her business grew organically through word of mouth, and she became known for her eclectic aesthetic — a bespoke mix of retro and modern styles. “My thing has always been color and collecting a lot of old, found things and
interesting statement pieces that bring character and a story into people’s homes,” Jack says.
Before Jack could put her signature design stamp on her own home, however, she had extensive repair work to tackle. The exterior of the 1925-built home’s stucco was cracked, resulting in water damage and mold; the house had to be reframed; and the windows all needed to be replaced, including the rotted trim. The garage door was missing. There was no railing going up the exterior stairs, and the front yard was a tangle of overgrown ivy. The Spanish-Mediterranean-style interiors held promise, but the details were all off, from the cherry red veneer flooring to the bland bathroom design, not to mention the moldy sheetrock and uneven floors on the three-story home’s lower level.
Kress Jack
With the help of Buildrite Bay Area, Jack’s go-to construction crew, the project got underway. “Every day these 10 guys showed up and there was singing, and I was baking cookies for them,” Jack says. “It was magical. The whole thing went pretty well, especially considering I had to do way more work than I planned.”
After the team fixed the damage throughout and stripped out the dated and drab interior finishes, Jack applied her design skills, filling the home with color and character. An early purchase guided the interior design in a nautical direction: a hand-painted ombré paper lifejacket by Kristen Martincic that Jack procured at the San Francisco Art Fair and now hangs in a niche above the stucco living room fireplace. Additional maritime references include an antique porthole embellishing
A hand-painted hombré paper lifejacket by Kristen Martincic hangs above the stucco fireplace in the living room.
the custom front door; vintage ship ladders in the kitchen and dining area; and restored nautical sconces from an antiques store in Maine that illuminate the primary bathroom and flank the exterior entry.
Jack loves entertaining, so improving the kitchen and dining area was a top priority. In the kitchen, the moody dark mossy green walls, ceiling and cabinetry are complemented by a mix of modern and vintage elements, including the Zia Tile backsplash, globe pendant lights and working street crossing sign. A painting by Jack’s mother, Jean Jack, hangs above the sink in a tramp art frame. Adding a soft touch, curtains can be drawn to hide dinner prep from view when guests are over.
The mossy green hue extends to the ceiling in the dining area, where a custom table and banquette and refurbished
chairs found at Salvare in LA are set against the backdrop of Jack’s handpainted mural and hot pink string art spelling out the word “yum.” Whimsical touches like this are found throughout the house. For example, typical towel bars are traded for outstretched hand sculptures in two of the bathrooms, and a wood-and-rope sconce in the living room is subtly flipping the bird. “I don’t take myself very seriously,” Jack laughs.
The living room is home to Jack’s favorite spot in the house — a sunroom tucked behind an arched doorway outfitted with a custom daybed. “I use it every single day,” she says. “I have my coffee there every morning, and I have a glass of wine and read there at night.”
Kitchen highlights include the mossy dark green walls, ceiling and cabinetry and a vintage ship ladder used for shelving. Hot pink string art adds a whimsical touch in the dining room.
Upper right: New and vintage finds embellish the bar. Lower: Removing the exterior stairway railing opened up the space.
STUNNING VIEW RESIDENCE
This exceptional contemporary renovation epitomizes the pinnacle of luxury living, where breathtaking architectural design and superior finishes merge effortlessly, elevating it to a league of its own. This highly sought-after “West Side” location showcases world-class views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the bay, the San Francisco skyline, and Sausalito.Virtually new construction completed in 2024 by luxury builder Stroub Construction and Holscher Architecture, this impressive residence exemplifies meticulous attention to detail and the highest level of craftsmanship with an elevated design aesthetic.
• The private grounds evoke a resort-like ambiance, featuring a stunning infinity pool and spa with a waterfall edge, an expansive pool deck, multiple entertainment areas, a fire pit, a lush level lawn, manicured landscaping, a gated front yard, and meandering pathways
• The light-filled living room, family room and dining area, and chef’s kitchen were thoughtfully designed to capture sweeping views while effortlessly extending to the outdoor living spaces
• Positioned to provide captivating views of the scenic backdrop, the family/dining room features vaulted ceilings with exposed beams and recessed cove lighting, hardwood floors, a fireplace, a built-in window bench, and a wall of Marvin Modern windows and multi-slide glass doors opening to the expansive pool deck
• The open and airy living room features hardwood floors, built-in cabinetry, sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the bay, and Marvin Modern multi-slide glass doors that extend the living space to the outdoors, creating a natural flow for indoor-outdoor living
• The state-of-the-art chef’s kitchen features a large center island with counter seating, two chic pendant lights, a walk-in pantry, custom glass-front cabinetry with brass hardware, two sinks, two SubZero wine refrigerators, top-of-the-line appliances, and Marvin Modern multi-slide glass doors opening to the outdoors
• An ensuite bedroom with a private balcony and walk-in closet, a powder room, and a laundry room complete the main level of the residence
• The upper-level primary suite is a serene retreat with vaulted open-beam ceilings, a walk-in closet with a custom wardrobe system, and Marvin Modern multi-slide glass doors framing breathtaking views and opening to a sunny deck; the lavish primary bathroom features a freestanding soaking tub set against a wall of windows, a vanity with dual sinks and quartz countertops, and a walk-in shower with a rainfall showerhead
• The lower level features an additional family room, a powder room, and two comfortable en-suite bedrooms with access to the outdoors
• A detached guest suite with a full bathroom located below the two-car garage also serves as an amazing home office
• An elevator located just off the garage provides convenient access to the main entry
On a quiet cul-de-sac, this light-filled home features soaring ceilings, flexible living areas, lush gardens, and view decks. The private primary suite with hot tub and seamless indoor-outdoor flow complete this peaceful retreat near the Priory Club and top Kentfield schools. A bountiful garden welcomes you into your own
Exceptional Novato Home with Sweeping Views
104 EAGLE DRIVE
MAIN HOUSE: 3 BEDS | 2 BATHS GUEST HOUSE: 1 BED | 1 BATH
$3,750,000
An exclusive chance to own a slice of paradise in the coveted Marin Country Club community, with sweeping views of the Bay. This hilltop retreat offers unmatched privacy and natural beauty—just moments from the Club.
The upgraded main residence features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows, and an open layout that flows seamlessly to the outdoors—perfect for relaxed living and entertaining.
A one-bedroom, one-bath guest house offers its own stunning views and added flexibility.
Surrounded by lush landscaping, the property includes mature fruit trees, a sparkling refinished pool, hot tub, sauna, and multiple patios that create a resort-style ambiance.
With panoramic vistas of the Bay, Ignacio and Indian Valley Preserves, and Mount Burdell, every corner of this home offers something special.
Located in the very heart of Silicon Valley with outstanding Los Gatos schools, this artistically curated and designed home by Native Elements evokes the historical rancho days of California. And yes! You can keep your horses and chickens here too. Lovingly and attentively redesigned for maximum comfort, utility, versatility, and aesthetics, this single-story home with its flowing open concept design comes complete with modern touches and conveniences, including gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances, generous prep space, and abundant cabinetry, seamlessly integrating with the adjacent dining area for effortless entertaining. The rustic and charming living room is poised to host your special memories. Family room area has fluid tranquility that offers space to create. Five well-appointed bedrooms, one of which offers added privacy for guests or home office use. Master has lovely views, spacious walk-closet and access to side yard. This home also features a butler’s pantry, mudroom, spacious workshop, freestanding toolshed, hobby room, and a delightful ADU. Morning coffee awaits in the private front yard with views to the east. Exit out back to discover the outdoor oasis, with a courtyard, an inviting dipping pool, and adjacent seating area. Enjoy idyllic, memorable evenings and romantic western views while dining al fresco: vintage redwood grape stake fencing and native plants complement the beautiful oaks that frame the spectacular sunset. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the outdoor shower, spacious equipment storage and ample parking for a trailer/boat. Price Upon Request
NATHERA MAWLA
M: 408.348.8303
NATHERA MAWLA
nmawla@cbnorcal.com
M: 408.348.8303
NATHERA MAWLA
M: 408.348.8303
nmawla@cbnorcal.com
CalRE #00786544
nmawla@cbnorcal.com
CalRE #00786544
CalRE #00786544
LOOKING BACK
A New Book on West Marin History
Dewey Livingston knows of what he writes.
BY JIM WOOD
an you name the Marin County town in the above photo? And the year the photo was taken? Give up? Don’t blame you. It’s Point Reyes Station and the year was 1922. It’s one of hundreds of photos, maps and anecdotes that are packed into local historian Dewey Livingston’s 598-page book, Point Reyes and Tomales Bay: A History of the Land and Its People
Here’s how Livingston describes how much that area “liked” their alcohol:
“Point Reyes residents liked their drink. Alcohol was all over in the town saloons and homes, on the ranches, at the lighthouse, with the summer people. In the early 1900s there was a bar in the Salmina brothers’ Marshall Store and one down the road at Shields’
hotel. There was also the Western Hotel and a little three-stool bar in the Point Reyes Emporium in Point Reyes Station. There were a few saloon-hotels in Olema and one in Tocaloma. In Inverness, people drank at home for lack of a bar until the 1940s. Italian-Americans made their own wine. All the local stores sold liquor, wine and beer. Then came the National Prohibition Act of 1919. No liquor, no beer, no wine. However, Point Reyes was a near-perfect location for bringing in the booze, with isolated coves, piers and farms, ample water supply and a dairy industry in distress that left barns empty. Some people built and maintained stills in their basements while speakeasies catered to the thirsty populace supplied by bootleggers and rumrunners. In West Marin
it seems most activity fooled the feds.” Livingston’s book also includes passages on the Coast Miwok native people; the creation of the area’s innovative dairy industry; how nearby towns and villages differed from each other; and how the railroad’s arrival and demise impacted the region. Livingston, 72, and his wife Kerry have lived in the West Marin community of Inverness for 43 years. He helped create the Jack Mason Museum of West Marin History and has worked for years as a historical researcher for Point Reyes National Seashore and Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Point Reyes and Tomales Bay is available at bookstores throughout Marin.
