MARI N E X T R A O R D I N A R Y
L I V I N G
JUNE 2006
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84
CONTENTS
Features 78 think
Muslims of Marin
Islamic community is another sign of local diversity. story eve pell photos tim porter
84 home
Kitchen Alfresco
PH OTO: BARBARA RIES
Outdoor cooking and dining are all the rage in Marin. story p.j. bremier photos barbara ries
92 journey
Castles and Countryside
The old-world legacy and new-world culture of Scotland. story & photos sean arbabi
MARIN JUNE 2006
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62
CONTENTS
Departments 40
40
24
letters
28
at-a-glance
30
marin album
32
snap
40
fashion
Readers respond to Marin Magazine.
Hot tips day by day for the Bay Area.
Capturing a slice of life in Marin. by tim porter
Out and about, in and around Marin. by mimi towle & michal lev-ram
Lighten Up Latest in men’s fashion. by samantha schoech Life Style Paolo Petrone and his son Luigi share ideas on personal style.
44
fyi Gifts Treats for Father’s Day and the teachers in our lives. by mimi towle Garden Creating a bountiful butterfly garden. by melissa gebhardt People The delicious generosity of David Gilmour. by joanne furio Performing Arts The annual Ethnic Dance Festival. by michal lev-ram Books The best in summer reading. by samantha schoech Business Can Do Kid makes energy bars for children. by michal lev-ram
12
62
play
68
looking back
74
go
Horses continue to enrich life in Marin County. by mimi towle
Reconnect with the Tiburon railroad system. by jim wood
L.A. weekend with sun and stars. by samantha schoech
MARIN JUNE 2006
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CONTENTS
130
112
Departments 98
wine country Summer fun in Wine Country. by kathleen martin
103
galleries
106
calendar
112
flavor
113
dish
121
microclimate
130
Classic American, urban, and surf-inspired artworks. by anne crump ray
A roundup of performing arts, events, galleries, and more.
Picco brings delectable small plates to Larkspur. by erika lenkert
The latest in restaurant gossip. by graceann walden
Corte Madera—commerce and community spirit. by jim wood
dialogue A visit with author Joyce Maynard. by samantha schoech
Columns The Cover A detail from Bolinas Ridge
22
view from mount tam
26
pov
The creators of Marin Magazine welcome you to share their vision.
Regarding the June 6 ballot in Marin. by jim wood
to Duxbury Point, by Marin artist Tom Killion. His wood cut prints can be seen at tomkillion.com 14
100
rambling Seven-mile loop along the Coast. by barry spitz
MARIN JUNE 2006
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NOW OPEN Editorial editorial director Nikki Wood ext 105 nwood@marinmagazine.com
executive editor Jim Wood ext 106 jwood@marinmagazine.com
associate editor Mimi Towle ext 101 mtowle@marinmagazine.com
editor-at-large Tim Porter tim@timporter.com
editorial assistant Somer Flaherty editorial@marinmagazine.com
copy editor/proofreader Cynthia Rubin
editorial contributors SAN FRANCISCO’S LARGEST 13,000 SQUARE FEET
Sean Arbabi, P.J. Bremier, Joanne Furio, Melissa Gebhardt, Erika Lenkert, Katherine Martin, Anne Crump Ray,
R E S O R T - L I K E D AY S PA
David Sason, Samantha Schoech,
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E S T H E T I C + CO S M E T I C T R E AT M E N T S
art director Trpti Todd ext 112
PERSONALIZED WELLNESS COACH
ttodd@marinmagazine.com
T O TA L B L I S S
production manager Alex French ext 111 production@marinmagazine.com
contributing photographers Sean Arbabi, Ben Davidson, Sasha Gulish, Sheri Montgomery, Tim Porter,
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Sausalito, CA 94965 phone: 415.332.4800 fax: 415.332.3048 email: editorial@marinmagazine.com web address: www.marinmagazine.com
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publisher Lisa Shanower 415.332.4800 ext 107 lshanower@marinmagazine.com
Advertising advertising director Courtney Q. Roberts 415.332.4800 ext 108 croberts@marinmagazine.com
account manager Lisa Wolford 415.332.4800 ext 110 lwolford@marinmagazine.com
account manager Genevieve Luckel 415.332.4800 ext 109 gluckel@marinmagazine.com
regional sales offices california media marin associates Lora Dinga 415.898.6400
hawaii destination marketing Debbie Joseph 808.739.2200
midwest/detroit murphy media group Daniel P. Murphy/David Tapia 312.857.1200
advertising art director Alex French ext 111 production@marinmagazine.com
Administration controller Jill Harmston ext 104 jharmston@marinmagazine.com
Furniture, Apparel, Linens, Rugs, Perfume, Lamps, Tableware, Sunglasses and Watches
Tommy Bahama Home & Apparel 30 & 32 Main St, Tiburon, CA (415) 435-4752, 435-7093
Volume 2, Issue 6. Marin Magazine is published in Marin County by Marin Magazine LLC. All rights reserved. Copyright©2006. Reproduction of Marin Magazine content is prohibited without the expressed, written consent of Marin Magazine LLC. Unsolicited materials cannot be returned. Marin Magazine reserves the right to refuse to publish any advertisement deemed detrimental to the best interests of the community or that is in questionable taste. Marin Magazine is mailed monthly to homes and businesses in Marin County. Subscription rates are $36 per year. Marin Magazine, One Harbor Drive, Sausalito, CA 94965. Phone 415.332.4800, fax 415.332.3048, email editorial@marinmagazine.com, website marinmagazine.com. member of the bpa worldwide:
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The Plaza on Magnolia Invites you to our
Summer Block Party!
Grand Prize • CHAMPAGNE SHOPPING SPREE Products and/or Gift Certificates from all the “Plaza on Magnolia” businesses.
1020 - 1118 Magnolia Ave., Larkspur
Come and Enjoy Special Treats, Surprises and Discounts! OPEN HOUSE – Thursday, June 1, 5-7pm - Extended Hours & Refreshments BLOCK PARTY – Friday, June 2, 10am – 6pm – Raffle, Lemonade, Popcorn & Fun
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V I E W F R O M M O U N T TA M
WITH JUNE COMES THE ONSET of summer, school is out, and its time to play. We are fortunate to live in a location that has such an abundance of cultural and entertainment options. Here are a few that we recommend: There’s the classic Italian Street Painting Festival June 10 and 11 in San Rafael; each weekend through June 18th Fiddler on the Roof takes place at the Cushing Memorial Amphitheatre. This adventure is the quintessential Marin experience— hike up the mountain with friends, pack a lunch, enjoy the performance, and rejoice in a day on Mount Tam. The Marin Art Festival is open for business June 17 and 18, and the Marin County Fair opens on June 30; both events take place at the Marin Civic Center. For a more detailed listing of Bay Area events check out the Calendar on page 106 or visit our online version at marinmagazine.com. This is also the month when we take time to honor the fathers in our lives—the men who made a difference for all of us. We were particularly inspired by one local example, David Gilmour, a Marin father and community leader who developed Paradise Foods, a thriving market in Corte Madera, to provide for his injured daughter (page 50). In Life Style we meet another Marin father, Paolo Petrone, and his son Luigi, as they share their unique sartorial preferences (page 42). And for insights on choosing something special for the dad in your life, check out gift ideas on page 44. It has been said that Marin County is very homogeneous. In our continuing effort to explore the diversity in our community, regular contributor Eve Pell examines the Marin Muslim culture through interviews with members of the Mill Valley Islamic Center (page 78). celebrate this extraordinary place! Lisa Shanower, Publisher Nikki Wood, Editorial Director Jim Wood, Executive Editor
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PHOTO: BARBARA RIES
As always, our wish is for your good reading. Enjoy Marin Magazine, as we continue to
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
5/3/06 1:52:27 PM
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LE TTE R S
Readers respond Kudos to your magazine for its original and eye-catching cover photography! Every issue that arrives is my favorite, but the April cover with the aerial view of the surfer tops them all. Oops, my May issue was just delivered and now it is my favorite. Keep up the phenomenal creativity!
Laurie Krashanoff San Anselmo Cancel my subscription. Like others who have penned complaints about Marin Magazine catering to the economically advantaged, I, too, must weigh in. I pay you all this money for your monthly magazine so you can fish for advertisers who sell to the rich? Never mind that it’s such beautiful fishing: those breathtaking magnolias (May 2006 cover); that warm, eloquent feature on Bolinas;
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Correction: It has come to our attention that the phone number for Marché aux Fleurs in Ross Common (Flavor, page 114 of the May 2006 issue) was incorrect. The correct phone number is 415.925.9200. We apologize for any inconvenience this has caused.
1030 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574 Phone 707 967 8800 napavalleyspa.com • hsnv.com relax@napavalleyspa.com
Letters to the editor may be edited for clarity and brevity. Send letters to Marin Magazine, One Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965. Or email to jwood@marinmagazine.com.
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MARINMAGAZINE.COM
5/2/06 9:48:58 AM
Andy Kristen Direct: 415-342-5118 Email: andykristen@A-Team1.com
Andrew Grossman Direct: 415-342-9995 Email: andrewgrossman@A-Team1.com
804 San Anselmo Avenue, San Anselmo, CA 94960 • 415-459-0112
P OV
Regarding the June 6 Ballot One word describes this election: close County Supervisor Charles McGlashan en-
and a Dixie School District board member. His
dorses Woolsey. “Congress is all about seniority
endorsements seem a furlong (220 yards) in
and ‘chasing money,’” he says, adding, “Marin
length. “California schools are underfunded at
shouldn’t trade a senior for a freshman, especial-
a minimum by about $3 billion,” he says. “It’s
ly if Democrats gain control of Congress.” Former
got to change.”
Corte Madera Mayor Vaso Medigovich disagrees;
Environmental concerns are foremost? Your
he supports Nation. “Joe is a real doer—always
man may be Jared Huffman, 41, a senior at-
fighting for the best for Marin County. We need
torney for the Natural Resources Defense
his youthful energy and vision.”
Council. He serves on the Marin Municipal
As for other endorsements, Dianne
Water District board and is endorsed by
Feinstein, Barbara Boxer, and Nancy Pelosi
the Sierra Club as well as Marin County
back Woolsey, as do most of her colleagues in
Supervisors McGlashan, Susan Adams, Harold
the House. Most Democratic Assembly mem-
Brown, and 600 other community leaders.
bers, including Speaker Fabian Nunez, endorse
If you want experience, consider Cynthia
Nation, as does state Superintendent of Public
Murray, 55. She’s been a Marin County super-
Instruction Jack O’Connell.
visor since 1998, as well as serving on Marin’s
The 6th Congressional District includes
library, redevelopment, and open space dis-
Marin and southern Sonoma County. Voter
tricts. Her endorsements include former state
N THE JUNE 6 Democratic primary, state
registration favors Democrats two to one
Sen. John Burton and past county Supervisors
Assemblyman Joe Nation, 49, is challeng-
so the winner on June 6 starts packing for
Gary Giacomini and Pete Arrigoni, as well as
ing U. S. Representative Lynn Woolsey, 68,
Washington, D.C. This dynamic race merits
sheriffs, realtor, builder, and farm groups and
for California’s 6th Congressional District Seat.
your attention—and your voting participation.
the North Bay Council.
The contest is such a horse race no one can say
Those words also apply to the race for
Looking for youthfulness? And experience?
with certainty who is leading. That alone is a
California’s 6th Assembly District seat, the one
Check out Pam Torliatt, 38. With 14 years
rarity because congressional incumbents rarely
Nation has been “term-limited” out of. Again,
of public service experience—including the
face serious challenges.
I
it’s a horse race: There are five well-qualified
Petaluma City Council, Bay Area Air Quality
Woolsey is running on her 14-year record
Democratic candidates and no one holds a
Management District, and Metropolitan
and her determined effort to get U.S. troops
clear lead. If you’re a progressive Democrat,
Transportation District—she’s endorsed by the
withdrawn from Iraq immediately. She’s the one
consider putting money on John Alden, 35, a
California Teachers Association, NOW, numer-
who unsuccessfully invited Cindy Sheehan to
consumer protection lawyer, chairman of the
ous labor and law enforcement groups’ and
this year’s State of the Union address.
Marin Democratic Party, and former chair of
several members of the state assembly.
Nation’s Iraq stance is: 1) Fire Rumsfeld.
the San Rafael Planning Commission. He is
“For 25 years I’ve been in the thick of Marin
2) Withdraw the National Guard im-
passionate about single-payer health care and
politics,” says Dick Spotswood, the Marin IJ’s
mediately, a majority of U.S. troops by
campaign finance reform. Among his backers
political columnist. “And the June 6 ballot has
’07, the remainder by ’08. 3) Do not
is actor/author/activist Peter Coyote.
a highly qualified group of candidates; it’s a
consider keeping permanent bases within Iraq.
Education is important? Then look to
When asked whose position he identifies with,
Damon Connolly, 42. He’s a deputy attor-
Nation replies, “Senators Clinton and Kerry.”
ney general who helped break the Enron case,
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MARIN JUNE 2006
020-027_View_LTR_POV.indd 26
first-class field.” Amen. That’s precisely my point of view. What’s yours? E-mail jwood@marinmagazine.com.
PHOTO: BARBARA RIES
BY JIM WOOD
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
5/2/06 2:53:47 PM
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AT A G LAN C E
JU NE JUNE 9 Arboreal Art
Let Item, Pearl, Folio, Collure, and other Magnolia Ave. shops prepare you for summer with this shopping extravaganza, ending in a block party and raffle on Friday (Larkspur).
From the Forest, a new exhibit featuring works by Carol Andrews, Geri Donovan, Susan Goldsmith, Susan Sasso, and Harold Schwarm, opens at Claudia Chapline Gallery (Stinson Beach). 415.868.2308, cchapline.com ▼
JUNE 1-2 Larkspur Luxe
JUNE 11 Dipsea Race
JUNE 10-11 Street Painting
Head to the Healdsburg Jazz Festival for an afternoon of music, merlot, and appetizers at La Crema’s new tasting room (Healdsburg). 707.433.4633, healdsburgjazzfestival.com
Take part in the oldest crosscountry race in America, a scenic 7.1-mile course running from Mill Valley to Stinson Beach (begins in Mill Valley). 415.331.3550, dipsea.org
Discover this classic Italian art, as hundreds of madonnari (street painters) turn San Rafael into a colorful gallery. Fifth Ave. and A St. (San Rafael). 415.457.4878, youthinarts.org ▼
JUNE 10 Wine and Jazz
JUNE 17-18 Blues Music Festival
This modern dance company presents the premiere of a new work set entirely to vocal music. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts (SF). 415.978.2787, ybca.org
Groove to the best of the blues on the banks of the Russian River. Featured performers include Taj Mahal, Floyd Dixon, Sista Monica Parker, and other notables (Guerneville). 925.866.9599, russianriverbluesfest.com
JUNE 18 Father’s Day
THRU JUNE 18 Fiddler on the Mountain
JUNE 20 Family Concert Series
There’s no time like the present to show appreciation for the dad in your life. Make use of warm weather for some outdoor family bonding: hiking, biking, or beachcombing.
See Fiddler on the Roof, a heartwarming musical about family, tradition, and loss, from atop Mount Tamalpais (Mill Valley). 415.383.1100, mountainplay.org
John Allair Trio plays ’50s-style R&B in a free outdoor show for the whole family. Pack a picnic and enjoy the show at the Marin Art and Garden Center (Ross). 415.455.5260, maagc.org
▼
EVE NT S IN MA R IN & B EYO N D
▼
▼
JUNE 16-17 Liss Fain Dance
JUNE 30 County Fair
Enjoy the extra sunshine on this first day of the season—the longest daylight period and the shortest night in the Northern Hemisphere.
Bring the kids along for the fireworks, rides, and more at the 61st annual Marin County Fair, Marin Center Fairgrounds (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marinfair.org ▼
JUNE 22 Summer Solstice
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MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/28/06 9:29:55 AM
Luxury Retirement Living
M A R I N ALBUM
The Boys of Spring
BY TIM PORTER
“This is a very simple game. You throw the ball, you catch the ball, you hit the ball. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose, sometimes it rains.”
UNLIKE MOST OTHER SPORTS, baseball is a game learned young. A friend might say at
— ACTOR TIM ROBBINS AS PITCHER
diminutive Major Leaguers whose true age is betrayed by the freshness of their faces and
baseball. Never baseball. Adults and baseball don’t mix well; it’s a game that lives in a grassy never-never land with foul lines, face masks, and hot dog stands. As the legendary Brooklyn Dodgers catcher Roy Campanella said, “You gotta be a man to play baseball for a living, but you gotta have a lot of little boy in you, too.” These days, with sandlots and neighborhood pickup games only a memory of another generation, most little boys—and girls—learn baseball in organized leagues. They play on teams like the Owls, a rookie-level team in the Mill Valley Little League, looking the part of outsize fit of their hats. The Mill Valley Little League has 51 teams and 700 players. After the league’s opening day parade this year, the Owls and the other young players waited patiently through the speeches of adults, with gloves in hand, eager to play some ball. But that day, it was not to be. Instead, they learned their first lesson of baseball: Sometimes it rains.
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MARIN JUNE 2006
PHOTO: TIM PORTER
NUKE LALOOSH, BULL DURHAM
age 30, 40, or 50 that he’s going to take up golf, scuba diving, or even archery. But not
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S N A P HAPPENI NGS
Around the Bay
Bay Institute Symphony maestro Alasdair Neale greeted guests along with violinist Steven Beulah Chang, Susan Machtinger, Robert Hunter, Virginia Hunter
Machtinger, who served
Steven Machtinger, Alasdair Neale
as emcee at “A Night at the Marin Symphony.” The evening included a classical music concert and a champagne and hors d’oeuvre reception. Proceeds support the Bay Institute, of which Machtinger is a member. The organization works to protect
Carol Lind and James English
Corinne Abel, Morgan Rissel
Waldo Griffin, Cynthia Kilian
and restore the San Francisco Bay and its watershed.
Bimbo’s Rocks Folks from all over the Bay Area —especially Marin—headed to Bimbo’s in San Francisco for Back to the Nightclubs a lively evening Busta Groove. Dana King was the
Robin Bacci, Joe Costa
Rhonda Shipley, Sue Ward
Evan Disick, Ritu Sood
Cathy and Matt Frymier
Tamara and Kurt Mobley
Doug and Beth Walker
BAY INSTITUTE: ANN DICKINSON /BIMBO’S ROCKS: ED SMITH
of cocktails, dinner, and dancing to master of ceremonies at this fifth annual fundraising event put on by Marin-based Sunny Hills Services (formerly Sunny Hills Children’s Garden), which offers a full spectrum of residential, education, mental health, and community-based services designed to meet the needs of mentally and emotionally disturbed children throughout the Bay Area. 32
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MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/28/06 9:31:31 AM
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S N A P BUSINESS
Open House Marin Outdoor Living Michael Galica invited friends and family to a preview party last month for his new luxury outdoor furnishings store, Marin Outdoor Living. Guests mingled among vibrantly hued umbrellas, flueless fireplaces and sleek hardwood and steel furniture as Diana Stobo, Susan Ferrington
Will and Stephanie Cannell, Anson Tone
the local band Jelly entertained. Anne Lefkovits, Michael Galica, Stephen Lefkovits
Dennis and Pamela Fisco, Sabra and Andy Berman
NewSkin New You Bay Club Marin held an open house to welcome the NewSkin Clinic to the Sanctuary day spa. Guests were invited to try out the spa and clinic and were treated to informal semiOPEN HOUSE: KEN FRIEDMAN/NEWSKIN; COURTESY OF BAY CLUB MARIN
nars led by Dr. Robert Swanson, head of NewSkin Clinic, who answered questions about sundamaged and aging skin.
Fariba Zolnash, Donna Gravely, Karen Blumenthal
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Barbara Moseley, Sandra Swanson, Alison Abbott
Becky O’Connor, Nicole Raynard
Susie Godin, Kay Mitzel, Wallett
Lisa Walsh, Katherine Garvey
Vikki Wilson, Roger Kelner
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
5/1/06 3:41:49 PM
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S N A P BUSINESS
Artful Living Spring into Spring
‘Wow’ Photos
Just back from shopping in France, Larkspur’s Coquelicot owner Nuria Weintraub invited guests to peruse a fresh new collection of ceramics, glassware, spring bags, and jacquard tablecloths.
Nuria and Norm Weintraub
Beth Casey, Christine Chyzy, Sterling James
Laura Kudritzki, Beth Berman
Jean Mastagni, Jane Berman, Isabel and Julia Berman
Beth Berman and Laura Kudritzki welcomed clients and friends to the firstyear anniversary of Muse Photography Studio in Sausalito. Berman and Kudritzki were also part of the group that created last year’s Faces of Caledonia exhibit. Montse Sthymmel, Adriana Sthymmel-Morant
Dinner with Gavin
Wedding Faux Pas Editors Lisa Taggart and Samantha Schoech—both raised in Marin—held a reading for their new book, Tied in Samantha Schoech, Caroline Berry
Knots, Funny Stories from the Wedding
Day. Apropos to the content, the reading took place at I Dream Melissa Galliani, Anna K. Pennington Boucher, Susan Rafferty, Mayor Gavin Newsom, Lily Kanter Sarosi, Scott Bartosiewicz Marc Sarosi, David Lohrey
Marin resident Anna Boucher was the winning bidder for a dinner with Mayor Gavin Newsom at restaurant Jack Falstaff as part of an auction for the Koret Family House, a place where families of children with life-threatening illnesses can live during their hospital stay.
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of Cake, a gallery featuring all things sweet and frosted. There will be further readings featuring Marin authors Jennifer Ruskin and Sara Berkeley throughout the Bay Area; check out tiedinknots.com for more information.
Lisa Taggart, Jim Gothers
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/28/06 9:33:14 AM
Standards
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Experience Exceptional Flavor One Recipe At A Time The KitchenAid® dual fuel convection range with
Concord Showroom 2260 Commerce Ave., Ste. B Concord, CA 94520 Tel: 925-459-5300 Fax: 925-459-5320
Steam-Assist is new technology for the home kitchen. For years, professional chefs have combined convection with steam in their recipes. You have, too — every time you baste roasts, spitz bread, or use a water
Reno Showroom 7525 Colbert Drive, #108 Reno, NV 89511 Tel: 775-852-5600 Fax: 775-852-5650
bath for delicate desserts. This innovative range allows you to add the benefits of steam into your meal preparation without the need to take these manual steps. Standards Of Excellence sales associates welcome
Sacramento Showroom 1200 Del Paso Road Sacramento, CA 95834 Tel: 916-515-0525 Fax: 916-515-2450
you to their state-of-the-art showrooms. Experience the inspirational vignettes, ask about the free culinary programs, and learn more about the full line of KitchenAid products.
www.standardsofexcellence.com
San Jose Showroom 1720 Ringwood Ave. San Jose, CA 95131 Tel: 408-907-3800 Fax: 408-907-3801
S N A P COMMUNI T Y
Parties for a Cause Rebuild the Park Mill Valley residents and friends gathered at the recent Party for the Park fundraiser, hosted by the Mill Valley Rotary Club and Sycamore Park. The night kicked off with a cocktail reception, followed by live music, food, raffle Bethany Conybeare, Emery Mitchell
Scott and Tracy Harrington
Mitchell Danielson, Hollis McCord, Ray and Marybeth Gilliam
Mary Press, Lisa Leigh, Kristin Silmore
Unique Program
Ken McNeely, Inder Dhill
Over 225 people attended the Oak Hill School’s recent benefit at the Mill Valley Community Center. Guest raised $225K for this unique Marin City school, dedicated to teaching children with learning challenges, including autism. In addition to raising funds, guests dined on a gourmet dinner by Insalata’s chef Heidi Krahling, sipped wines by Luna Vineyards, and listened to music by composer Burt Bacharach.
prizes, and a silent auction. All proceeds from the event will help rebuild Sycamore Park.
Dennis Morrow, Natasha Naja
New Name
Teri Dowling, Martha Auld, and Gail Womack
Partygoers were on hand last April for the unveiling of Marin Breast Cancer REBUILD THE PARK: SHERI MONTGOMERY
Council’s new name during the 2006 Grants Reception. Going forward the organization is to be called To Celebrate Life Breast Cancer Foundation. A total of $320,000 was also given to 18 Bay Area nonprofits to continue their support of women, men, and their families Karen Kaplan, Dennis Aftergut
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Bill Watson, Kathleen Hahn, Sue Main, Joe Matulich
in their struggle with breast cancer.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/28/06 9:34:07 AM
It’s a cluttered, stressful and chaotic world out there. In your garage, that is. Making that world a calm, cool and very collected
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Happiness. Alias: Good storage. (415) 456-4474 garagesolutions.com CA Lic. #722005 San Rafael, CA Showroom
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4/20/06 2:26:36 PM
lighten up BY SAMANTHA SCHOECH
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4/28/06 9:43:43 AM
FASHION
RUDE BOY Dior Homme pays tribute to the look of ‘80s pop with pencil-thin ties, suspenders, and skinny, skinny pants. Black wool two-button suit, red cotton short-sleeve shirt, fuchsia silk tie, and white leather suspenders, Dior Homme by Hedi Slimane, $2,205, $265, $175, and $235 at eluxury.com.
This season’s seersucker, khaki, and crisp white give men’s fashion that expatriate vibe. The South of France meets The Great Gatsby, with a touch of the nautical thrown in for good measure. SHINY HAPPY PEOPLE
Opposite page: Seersucker suit by Valentino; jacket is $995 and pants are $250 at Wilkes Sport (Mill Valley) 415.381.5183. This page, clockwise from top left: Cotton boat-neck sweater and silk bamboo Lido pants by Gucci, $590 and $470 at Gucci (San Francisco) 415.392.2808. Navy taped raincoat, V-neck sweater, and mini-stripe dress chino by Banana Republic, $298, $78, and $88 at Banana Republic (Corte Madera) 415.924.3330. Linen capri jacket, cotton silk Oxford Lido shirt, and linen satin wide-leg pants by Gucci, $2,135, $370, and $720 at Gucci. Silk cable-knit sweater, silk shirt, and cotton-linen pants by Louis Vuitton, $627, $499, and $556 at Louis Vuitton (San Francisco) 415.391.6200. Trench patch poplin shirt, canvas slim leg trouser, cotton cap, and floral print washed scarf by Burberry Prorsum, $320, $430, $95, and $120
These new summer ties are
at Burberry (San Francisco) 415.392.2200.
so full of lush, vibrant color and texture, they’re practically mood-altering. All ties by Robert Talbott, $85–$105 at Patrick James (Mill Valley) 415.383.3474.
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FA S H I O N
life style Name Paolo Petrone & son Luigi Home Tiburon Occupation Paolo hotelier/restaurateur Luigi student
What are you wearing? Paolo Jeans, shirt, sport jacket, and shoes, all by Armani. Luigi Ralph Lauren pants, Abercrombie & Fitch shirt, and Prada shoes. How long does it take you to get ready in the morning? Paolo Five minutes. Luigi Thirty minutes. Paolo It takes him longer because he wants to look perfect before leaving the house. Describe your personal style. Paolo Simple and elegant. I like to combine different colors and fabrics. Luigi Relaxed and comfortable. Who are your fashion influences? Paolo Being Italian, I have always been exposed to style. My mother always made me dress well. Now I am influenced by the major Italian designers—mostly Armani, because he chooses the best material and most simple style. What makes him special is his ability to leave no detail left behind. From the right fabric to the right cut, it all
Favorite designers? Paolo Giorgio Armani, Ermenegildo Zegna, Versace. Luigi I’m not much into a specific designer, but I like a casual outdoor look. 42
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PH OTO: BAR BARA RIES
blends and becomes a piece of art.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/28/06 9:45:04 AM
Where do you love to shop in Marin?
The Heat is On . . . 1/3 SQUARE
Paolo Nordstrom. The service in the shoe department is great. Luigi O’Neill Surf Shop. What is always in your pocket? Paolo My ten-year-old YSL wallet. Luigi A silver money clip I got in Spain and my cell phone.
ADVERTISER
What is the single most essential piece in your wardrobe? Paolo My two-year-old black cotton Zegna sweater. Luigi Flip-flops. What would you never be caught dead in? Paolo Yellow pants. Luigi Yellow pants.
Look Cool...
What do you splurge on? Paolo Shoes. Ecco for work, Armani for casual, and Ferragamo for formal occasions. Luigi I agree, shoes can be a good splurge. What is your best cheapo secret? Paolo Allowing my wife to do the shopping. Luigi California Cheap Skates. I like to shop locally, but ccs.com has great deals. What’s your fashion pet peeve? Paolo Turtlenecks. Luigi Turtlenecks. What’s the most expensive thing you’ve ever bought?
Vince, Velvet, Puella, Theory, 1/3 SQUARE Calypso, Trina Turk, Ingwa Melero, Hudson Jeans, Chip and Pepper, Diane von Furstenberg,
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and so much more...
Paolo An Ermenegildo Zegna suit for my 20th wedding anniversary five years ago. Luigi Probably a nice pair of slacks. Did it make you happy? Paolo I really enjoyed it.
green apples
Luigi Yes, they made my mom happy too. If your life were a movie, what would be your theme song? Paolo “What a Wonderful World.” Luigi I need to think about that one. MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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F Y I GIFTS
Dapper Dad Make the fashionable dad look even bet-
World Cup Pride
ter in this Barcelino shirt, which comes in
If your dad loves his iPod and his soccer, get him one of these Sumo limited-edition leather
100 percent cotton or silk, and a cotton-
iPod cases, available in eight different country colors, $40, Sumo, available online at apple.
silk blend, $145, Barcelino (San Francisco),
com and participating Apple stores.
415.781.5777, barcelino.com
Father’s Day Gift Ideas
Heavy Metal
Inspired Art
Sport by Association
Designed by the same company that
For the fishing, diving, or art aficionado...
Even if he can’t spend Father’s Day on the
makes Harley-Davidson’s onboard motor-
in homage to the one that got away. Wall-
greens, he’ll feel that much closer to his fa-
cycle clocks, this 7.2-ounce water resistant
mounted, three-dimensional fish and ma-
vorite sport with Tiffany & Co.’s sterling sil-
(up to 330 feet), shock resistant, stainless
rine life sculptures made of white, raw por-
ver accessories including a golf ball key ring,
steel Holloman watch is one tough time-
celain from Hering, Berlin. Starting at $245,
$85; three-prong turf tool, $195; and golf
piece, $550, Formotion Products (Sausalito),
Tate & Kennedy (San Francisco), 415.474.8283,
tool and Atlas golf tee, $85, Tiffany & Co.
415.331.0400, formotionproducts.com
tateandkennedy.com
(San Francisco), 415.781.7000, tiffany.com
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GOLF ACCESSORIES: RICHARD PIERCE
For the sporty dad, laid-back dad, punctual dad—or Dr. Seuss’s famous “Sad Dad”—here are some great gift ideas just for him.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
5/1/06 2:01:22 PM
1/3 SQUARE
ADVERTISER
Some Daddy Alone Time Everybody needs a little pampering now and then, so give him one of these especially-formen treatments from one of our local Marin day spas. Eden Day Spa Treat his specific skin care needs with a Gentlemen’s Facial, which helps soothe shaving irritation, $90; or spoil him with a Luxury Caviar Facial, designed for damaged skin, $140, 415.464.9111, edendayspa.com
TASTE. BALANCE. HAND-CRAFTED ONE BARREL AT A TIME.
R U S S I A N R I V E R VA L L E Y
1/3 SQUARE
Evo Spa Give the gift of total relaxation with the Gentlemen’s Dream package, a musclerelief wrap, therapeutic massage, and facial, $210, 415.383.3223, evo-spa.com Flying Beauticians Nourish his dry skin with a Mars Facial, $85; nurture his back with the Dark Side of the Moon, $95; or try exfoliation, massage, and an active mask, 415.381.8134, flyingbeauticians.com
ADVERTISER
Salon One Day Spa Get the dad who’s always traveling an Anti-Free-Radical advanced facial, perfect for jet-lagged skin, $125, 415.380.9111, tiburonsalon.com Sanctuary Spa at Bay Club Marin Relieve his tired muscles with an Athlete’s Anthem: Sports/ Deep-Tissue massage to help work out all the kinks, $75 member price, $95 for guests, 415.945.3030, sfbayclub.com Stellar Spa Give him the works with the Men’s Package: a purifying facial, phyto-lymphatic eye treatment, deep tissue massage, and selfheating mud for his feet, $270, 415.924.7300, stellarspa.com
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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lacrema.com
©2006 La Crema, Windsor, CA
MARIN JUNE 2006
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F Y I GIFTS
Say it with color Be bright in that other way. Send bouquets directly to the classroom from Mill Valley’s Organic Bouquet. Choose from a broad
For Mr. Adam or Ms. Eve
selection of eco-friendly flowers and gifts,
A new twist on the proverbial teacher gift. These Art Wax candles come in other fruit forms
free of pesticides, Organic Bouquet (Mill
as well, $12, Fancy That (Corte Madera), 415.945.8863
Valley), 877.899.2468, organicbouquet.com
Be a Teacher’s Pet For all they do throughout the school year, here are some gift ideas for those special teachers in your life.
Market Basket
Dynamic Desk
A perfect gift à la carte, or stuffed with
Now, they can grade homework on the go.
Smug Mug
small gifts from the rest of your class. Sur
This field book stand holds all supplies, while
With this stylish ceramic coffee mug, your
La Table’s new market tote also comes in
a book or journal sits attentively upon the
recipient can be the coolest one in the
black and orange, $30, Sur La Table (Corte
pop-up easel, $28, Flax Art (San Francisco),
teachers’ lounge, $15, Lulu Blue (Mill Valley),
Madera), 415.945.0112, surlatable.com
415.552.2355, flaxart.com
415.388.5907, lulu-blue.com
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MARINMAGAZINE.COM
5/1/06 2:01:50 PM
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F Y I GA R DE N
Captivating Creatures It’s the time of year to behold butterflies BY MELISSA GEBHARDT
If you plant it, they will come. That’s the basic advice from Charlotte
O
UR FASCINATION WITH THE BEAUTY of butterflies runs deep. Throughout the history of art and culture, the Lepidoptera (Greek origin, lepis for scale and pteron for wing)
has symbolized everything from transformation and resurrection to freedom and the
Torgovitsky, garden education manager
human soul. Our infatuation is displayed in the butterflies adorning our hair clips, our clothes, our
at Marin Art & Garden Center in Ross.
bedsheets, and even our bodies—butterfly images are consistently one of the five most requested
She makes the following suggestions to
tattoos. And speaking of body adornment, a butterfly (like a ladybug) is one of the few insects
set the stage for years of enjoyment:
that most of us can tolerate landing on our shoulders.
•
No pesticides
•
Full sun
this time of year. If you take the time to stop and watch the butterflies, you’ll soon notice that
•
Water source
beyond their beauty, each species has its own unique set of traits. For instance, just like someone
•
Protection from wind
who walks with a unique gait, the California Sister (black, orange, and white, with a remarkably
•
Place to sit and observe
contrasting underwing coloration) has a flight pattern wherein it flaps its wings twice, then glides.
•
Colorful flowers
This is not only charming; it is intended to confuse predators. The Painted Lady has a distract-
•
Larval food plants
ing, quirky flight pattern in which it passes over obstacles rather than around them. And while
There are over 300 species of Lepidoptera within California, and Marin is teeming with them
(milkweed, lavatera, snapdragon)
the Common Buckeye’s coarsely haired larvae chewing their way across monkey flower might go
•
Cover grass
unnoticed, its two orange rectangles and yellow, orange, white, and black wing spots (resembling
•
Native plants
eyes) drifting along a Marin fire road would surely get your attention. It is interesting to note that
•
Allow it to be a little “wild”
only butterflies that are poisonous to predators, such as the Monarch with its orange and black “warning” colors, can boldly fly straight.
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PHOTO: ALISON SEAMAN
CREATE A BUTTERFLY GARDEN
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/28/06 10:07:59 AM
A “social butterfly” is someone who flits from party to party, and one can see where this term originated. Some butterflies, like the
Experience1/3 SQUARE Green Living
bright yellow and black Anise Swallowtail and the Western Tiger Swallowtail, gather on warm hilltops, where male congregations meet their
Swim Spas
female mates. Another social behavior, migration, is well-documented in the Monarch popu-
Hot Tubs
lation. In the West, they travel each year from the Rockies and Canada to huddle en masse
ADVERTISER
among the Monterey pines and eucalyptus trees in Pismo Beach and Pacific Grove. Locally, they’re often spotted in Fort Mason, Tennessee Valley, Muir Beach, and Stinson Beach, which serve as way stations in their August-September travels (while the generations they spawn along the way can be found in our backyards).
Outdoor Furniture
The Painted Ladies, whose populations have increased in recent years, also travel together each year, migrating north.
Umbrellas
These glorious butterflies of Marin fly about in the spring and summer, captivating us while fulfilling their ecological role as pollinators. Pick a spot, either in open space or your own backyard haven, and enjoy their fleeting spectacle.
BUTTERFLIES IN MARIN The best time to see these lovely creatures is on a warm, sunny day, April through September. For where, see below:
EcoSmart® Fire
Mount Tamalpais Watershed Fairfax, Sky Oaks, Bon Tempe, and Lagunitas Lake areas. For a map of the area, visit marinwater.org or call 415.945.1182. $7 vehicle entrance fee Point Reyes National Seashore Wildflower and butterfly hikes, see ptreyes.org Marin County Open Space District For maps and a butterfly checklist, visit marinopenspace.org Marin Art & Garden Center Butterfly and Habitat Garden, 30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., Ross, maagc.org San Francisco Conservatory of Flowers The Butterfly Zone: Plants and Pollinators, thru Oct. 29, conservatoryofflowers.org
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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2100 Redwood Highway, Greenbrae (Off Hwy 101, Lucky Drive exit, next to Golf Mart) (415) 924-8811 • marinoutdoorliving@mac.com
MARIN JUNE 2006
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4/28/06 10:08:10 AM
F Y I PEO P LE
An Enduring Legacy How a father’s love inspired a generous community market BY JOANNE FURIO
O
N ANY GIV EN D AY AT PARAD ISE FOOD S, D avid Gilmour might be found stocking shelves, collecting carts, or picking up a crumpled piece of paper from the floor. Even
market, he’s done every job imaginable over his 2 5 -year
supermarket industry career. “I know what it’s like to be the meat-cleanup boy and to clean the store,” he says, from his windowless office containing little more than a computer and a phone.
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P H OTO: BARBA RA R IE S
though he’s the owner of this upscale Corte Madera
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“
And the one thing I know how to do is run a grocery store.
”
— DAVID GILMOUR
In both business and his personal life, Gilmour’s philosophy is deeply informed by empathy and experience. Having grown up in the agricultural Central Valley, Gilmour, 66, has a unique perspective that comes from knowing the produce business at its roots. “I really learned the industry from both the growers’ and the retailers’ side,” he says. Business expertise aside, Gilmour’s success comes from his drive to be a good father, evinced by a tragic accident nearly eight years ago. “On December 12, 1998,” Gilmour recounts, he received a phone call he’d never
Art, Gifts & Accessories Mon. - Sat. 10:30 am - 6:00 pm
47 C Tamal Vista Blvd., Corte Madera
forget. He learned that his then-26-year-old
(415) 945-8863 • Across from Book Passage
daughter, Tudor, was critically injured, hit by a car while riding a moped in Honolulu. She suffered from severe head injuries and remained in a coma for ten weeks. Doctors told Gilmour and his wife, Nancy, that recovery would take five to ten years. But he wondered
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about his daughter’s future after that, asking
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himself, “What if she lives to be 90?” He realized that his position as general manager of a Marin supermarket would not be enough. “I had to find work that was more substantial, to provide for her long-term needs,” he explains. “And the one thing I know how to do is run a grocery store.” Thus, the idea for Paradise Foods was born. Gilmour defines the store as “a family-owned, complete market with an emphasis on gourmet, international, and natural foods.” This year, the store’s fifth anniversary, total sales are expected to reach $16.5 million. But as contemporary as the store may appear, it is also an anomaly in the industry. Gilmour’s memories of working late nights
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and weekends led to his policy of closing Paradise each night at 8 p.m. and completely on Sundays. Also, the store does not sell
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
5/1/06 9:21:36 AM
“
There is something wholesome about your family knowing that you will have Sunday off.
”
—DAVID GILMOUR
cigarettes, lottery tickets, or hard liquor. Such decisions are fueled by his religious convictions and the store’s family-based image. “There is something wholesome about your family knowing that you will have Sunday off, and not be out working all night,” he says. He learned this esteem for family from his father, a Quaker minister whose charitable example still has a profound effect on the way Paradise Foods is run. Gilmour has given back to his community in many ways, including founding the faith-based Marin Leadership Foundation. Earlier this year, he became a trustee of the Global AIDS Interfaith Alliance, a Marin nonprofit working to stop the spread of AIDS in the African nation of Malawi, a cause for which Paradise Foods will match $25,000 in donations taken at its checkout counter. And that’s in
SANDRA BIRD DESIGNS
addition to over 100 local organizations—especially schools, churches, and synagogues— that receive Paradise Foods donations each year. Last year alone, the store gave away a quarter of a million dollars. Gilmour’s combination of business acumen and philanthropy has not gone unnoticed. Last year, he was chosen by the Corte Madera Chamber of Commerce to receive the Bank of Marin’s Spirit of Marin Award, which recognizes the “achievements and volunteer spirit of lo-
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cal businesses.” Taking stock, Gilmour says his daughter is “doing well now, even though she has some deficiencies.” And in his typical humble fashion, he credits everyone but himself for the thriving market he created on her behalf. “It’s everyone from the staff to the landlord, bankers and professionals, the lawyers, and the CPAs,” he says. “It’s a success story, for sure, but it’s not
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only about me.”
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F Y I PERFORMING ARTS
Dancing Shoes for Diversity The annual Ethnic Dance Festival offers a dazzling crash course in world cultures BY MICHAL LEV-RAM
WHEN BALLET AFSANEH TAKES THE STAGE in San Francisco this summer, don’t expect any tutus, pointe shoes, or Tchaikovsky. Instead, look for dancers dressed in traditional, red Kolyabi costumes from Tajikistan as the sounds of a steel jawharp fill the room. This Bay Area troupe, specializing in the performing arts of Central Asia, is one of 31 dance companies lined up for the upcoming Ethnic Dance Festival, where it will perform a choreography called Safar-e Zamaan. The three-weekend-long performance series will feature locals performing modern and traditional dance from all over the world—Cambodia, Peru, Greece, and Liberia are just a few countries represented onstage at the Palace of Fine Arts. “In the old days, people thought ‘ethnic dance’ was great for outdoor entertainment,” says Sharlyn Sawyer, founder and artistic director of Ballet Afsaneh. “The Ethnic Dance Festival has proven that ethnic dance was meant for the theater stage too. It’s also given many dance companies and communities a leg up in sustaining their culture.” Dancers from Ballet Afsaneh perform in traditional costumes from the Kulyab region and Pamir Mountains of Tajikistan.
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When the festival began back in 1978, it was the only multicultural, city-sponsored ethnic dance festival in America. Its mission was, and still is, to “assist the multitude of ethnic dance companies in the Bay Area by bringing their work before a broad public.” Over the
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/28/06 10:51:39 AM
Martin Noack Real Estate 1/3Real SQUARE For All Of Your Estate Needs last 28 years, it has done just that, having presented more than 10,000 dancers—from over 700 companies—to tens of thousands of audience members. “The extraordinary local cultural diversity, coupled with the fact that many master danc-
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ers from around the world have chosen the Bay Area as their home, has led to the region serving as the epicenter of world dance,” says Julie Mushet, executive director of World Arts West, the nonprofit organization behind the festival. The eclectic performers, she says, are selected on the basis of artistic, presentational, and cultural elements through an audition
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Judges compile their own top-20 lists, which help the World Arts West staff determine the final lineup for each of the three weekends. In addition to Ballet Afsaneh, this year’s program includes the Minoan Dancers, Ballet Lisanga
1/3 SQUARE
Congolese Performing Arts Company, Pasión Flamenca, Zooz Dance Company, and scores of others. Beyond traditions of dance, the festival also highlights the diverse cultures the Bay Area– based troupes represent. “By bringing awareness to the general public of these diverse cultural expressions, the festival contributes to cross-cultural communication and apprecia-
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tion,” says Mushet. The appreciation is certainly taking hold, judging from returning audiences and troupes. “Dance is the universal language,” insists Ballet Afsaneh’s Sawyer, who’s in her ninth year of involvement with the festival. “Being able to communicate, being able to have a global community—that’s what it’s all about.” Choose from three weekends of Ethnic Dance Festival performances, June 10–25. For a closer look at this year’s lineup, call 415.474.3914 or visit worldartswest.org
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FYI BOOKS
LOCAL TYPE
New books by Marin authors The May Queen: Women on Life, Love, Work, and Pulling It All Together in Your 30s edited by Andrea N. Richesin ($15, Tarcher Penguin) Women from all walks of life, from a Salvadorian immigrant in Marin County to best-selling author Jennifer Weiner, write about their respective lives and ideas on “pulling it all together.” Smart, engaging, and varied. Andrea N. Richesin and contributors will be reading at Book Passage in Corte Madera on September 14 at 7 p.m.
Watercooler Wisdom: How Smart People Prosper in the Face of Conflict, Pressure, and Change by Keith Bailey and Karen Leland ($15, New Harbinger) No more business as usual. Sausalito residents Bailey and Leland are cofounders of Sterling Consulting Group, an international management consulting firm with clients including American Express, Avis, and Microsoft. Based on surveys of more than 20,000 business executives, managers, and staffers from around the globe, Watercooler Wisdom shows us how to transform the workday from frustrating to fulfilling.
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JUNE 2006
The Books of Summer Five page-turners for those long, lazy days BY SAMANTHA SCHOECH
A
H, SUMMER. LONG-overdue vaca-
of her life: friends, marriage, her family, and
tions, hot sun, long days, and time for a
chocolate chip cookies. With its warm, funny
little escapist reading. This is not the
writing and satisfying ending, it’s a breeze of
season to catch up on your Kierkegaard; it’s
a novel.
the time to plow through the pages like they’re so many bonbons. Every year, when the days
The Faithful Spy by Alex Berenson ($25,
lengthen and the weather warms, up crops a
Random House) This is fiction that could very
new batch of page-turners. The Da Vinci Code
well be true. An undercover agent infiltrates
was a summer book. So were The Devil Wears
al Qaeda, going so deep underground that he
Prada and The Kite Runner. Here are five titles
can’t contact his superiors. The CIA thinks he’s
perfect for the beach, the plane ride, or the
turned, but he has vital information about a
hammock. Relax and enjoy.
future terrorist attack. An against-the-clock heart-pounder that’s impossible to put down.
Bed Rest by Sarah Bilston ($24, HarperCollins) High-powered New York lawyer Q suddenly
Digging to America by Anne Tyler ($25, Knopf)
finds herself on bed rest due to a complicated
The lives of two young families—one white-
pregnancy. This puts her career on hold, but
bread American, the other fully assimilated
affords a lot of time to focus on other aspects
Iranian—intertwine at the Baltimore airport,
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/28/06 10:52:32 AM
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where they each await the arrival of Korean adopted babies. The ensuing friendship of the Donaldsons and the Yazdans is both intense and awkward. A heartwarming exploration of 21st-century American culture—Anne Tyler at her tender best. Telegraph Days by Larry McMurtry ($25, Simon & Schuster) McMurtry is one of our best and most popular American writers. Hot on the heels of his Oscar win for coauthoring the screenplay of Brokeback Mountain, McMurtry returns to the big western themes of Lonesome Dove, the book that earned him a Pulitzer Prize. Telegraph Days takes us back to the gunslinging days of the Wild West, where we meet Nellie Courtright and her brother Jackson, sole survivors of the family’s journey west, as well
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JUNE 2006
Caitlin Flanagan ($23, Little, Brown) Game of Shadows: Barry Bonds, BALCO, and the Steroids Scandal that Rocked Professional Sports by San Francisco Chronicle writers Mark Fainaru-Wada and Lance Williams ($26, Gotham) The Second Coming of Mavala Shikongo, a novel by local author Peter Orner ($24, Little, Brown) The Keep, a novel by Jennifer Egan ($24, Knopf)
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/28/06 10:55:38 AM
Marin booksellers share their favorite poetry collections Staying Alive: Real Poems for Unreal Times by Neil Astley (Miramax Books, $17) “You really can’t miss with this one. Just close your eyes and pick a page—you’ll find something worth
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reading. It’s a collection of poetry from both the past and present, and is just eccentric enough to be really fun and interesting. Poetry is not a big seller, but this one sold well when it came out, in hardcover and paperback— and is still popular.” —Katherine Kearns, Book Passage (Corte Madera) New and Selected Poems: Volume II by Mary Oliver (Beacon Press, $25) “This latest poetry anthology by Mary Oliver features 42 new poems and 69 previously published ones, handpicked from her last six books. Oliver’s poetry is very accessible. That’s probably a big part of why she’s so popular, not to mention the winner of a National Book Award and a Pulitzer Prize.” —Mary Leary, 1st Street Books (Kentfield) Averno: Poems by Louise Glück (Farrar,
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Straus and Giroux, $22) “Pulitzer Prize winner Louise Glück’s 17th book of poetry is no less emphatic and heart-wrenching than her first. Once again, she takes on the mantle of Greek mythology (this time the myth of Persephone) and makes it into something of her own. It’s intensely familiar and personal, yet almost icy in its detached sorrow.” —Sage Van Wing,
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JUNE 2006
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F Y I BUSINESS
Healthy Snack Mill Valley’s Can Do Kid bar energizes children BY MICHAL LEV-RAM
IN THE BEGINNING, THERE WAS POWER BAR, the Berkeley-based ancestor of all energy bars. Then came Clif Bar, from another Berkeley company, which introduced us to bold and appetizing flavors such as Black Cherry Almond and Carrot Cake. More recently, the Bay Area has become prime breeding ground for yet another energy bar maker: Can D o K id. Unlike its predecessors, this Mill V alley company only sells energy bars specifically formulated for children. That translates to kid-sized protein and vitamin percentages. Also, tapioca is used as a sweetener to provide sustained energy, instead of the ubiquitous crash-inducing ingredient, high-fructose corn syrup.
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1/3 SQUARE
“Before, there were only energy bars for adults,” says Deborah Luster, founder of Can Do Kid and a mother of three. “The vitamin core would be 50 to 100 percent over the amount recommended for kids; there was nothing that had appropriate protein for kids,
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that tasted good, and had no high-fructose corn syrup.” Realizing there was a need (and a niche market) to be filled, Luster took matters into her own hands. She conducted numerous focus groups with children ages 5 to 11. Packaging-wise, Luster settled on a purple, yellow, and red wrapper adorned with a running cheetah. And she decided on two flavors, Cookies and Cream and Chocolate Crunch; both varieties are 70 percent organic. The bars are now sold at Mollie Stone’s, Mill Valley Market, and Corte Madera’s Paradise Foods, as well as natural food stores and gyms across the United States. Luster estimates they’ll be available in about 1,000 stores by the end of
1/3 SQUARE
the year. Luster, former president of Annie’s Homegrown (which manufactures some wellknown all-natural food products), has always had a passion for organic, nutritious foods— and a lifelong interest in work that inspires and empowers kids. Can Do Kid, she says, was the perfect marriage of the two. “We wanted to create a whole culture
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around it,” Luster says. “When kids use words like ‘I can do anything,’ it really shapes the way they look at the world.” Can Do Kid proved its conviction by releasing T-shirts, books, and bumper stickers brandishing its logo before the bars even hit the market. Next up is another book, and possibly some other nonfood items like backpacks or bicycle helmets. “We also want to create a half-sized bar specifically for schools,” says Luster. “But, well, that’s a whole ’nother bar.” When it comes to the Bay Area and energy bars, it seems, the more the merrier.
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PLAY
Horsing Around Equestrian activities abound in Marin BY MIMI TOWLE PHOTOS BARBARA RIES
F
rom Animal Planet’s wildly successful trio of new shows,
dotting the hillsides with their brown, black, or white coats. A Sonoma
Trail Mix, Horse Power, and Sporthorse Cup, to constant
State University study back in 2001 estimated that we spend $106 million
sightings of Prince William and his gal pal at yet anoth-
each year on equine-related activities. Not a paltry sum, since the num-
er polo match, horses are all the rage. Even a certain
ber of horses in Marin at the time of this study was recorded at 3,500.
expatriate pop diva—the barometer for all things cool
As with everything in this county, activities are wide-ranging. There
the past two decades—made headlines when she fell off her horse last
are many ways to show your love for horses here in Marin, according
year. Not that we in Marin need to be told this—just a couple of de-
to trainer and author Anastasia Burke. “Riding opportunities abound
cades ago it was not unusual to see a horse and rider clomping down
in Marin County,” she says. They include pleasure riding (noncompe-
Miller Avenue in Mill Valley or a workhorse tied up along Main Street
tition), trail riding, and therapeutic riding. On the competitive circuit,
in Novato. While most of us don’t handle horses on a daily basis, they
prospects include hunter/jumper, three-day evening, dressage, reining
are part of the scenery here in Marin, grazing in open pastures and
(a new Olympic category), endurance, Ride & Tie, ranch horse versatil-
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If loving this is wrong, 1/3 VERTICAL I don’t want to be right.
At some point, every guy needs to let the world know where he stands. So pick your spot, grab a stake, slam it into the ground with man gusto and yell, “I am man, hear me roar.” I did this recently. With no stakes nearby, I downgraded to a skewer and shoved that thing into the ground. Nothing.
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I then thick-sliced a few sweet onions, fresh zucchinis, bell peppers (both red and yellow), and lovingly impaled them along with large chunks of delicious free-range chicken on some, USDA Grade A filet on others, and tender leg of lamb on yet others.
ity (life as a working cattle horse), and rodeo,
entails visual coordination, lining up the jump,
which includes cutting, team penning, and
fitness, and a partnership with my horse.”
barrel racing.
craft of horse riding, as evinced by the in-
tween horses and humans,” says Jessica Rising,
creasing number of world-class trainers and
who grew up with horses in Novato. “I espe-
riders in this country. “Equestrian sports are
cially love being around and riding our horses,
growing in popularity,” she says. “Many types
because it’s the only time my mind becomes
of equestrian sports and international com-
relaxed and focuses on something other than
petitions are now being held in the USA.”
work.” Rising admits, however, that it can get
One example is the World Cup Jumping and
quite expensive, especially caring for five hors-
Dressage competitions held in Las Vegas back
es. “I think my husband envisioned one horse
in 2005 and returning there in 2007. And
in the family, but horses became a passion
the United States Equestrian Federation just
not only for myself, but for my husband and
announced that the 2010 World Equestrian
daughter as well,” she says. “He had no idea
Games will be held in Kentucky.
what he was getting into!”
Come buy some.
To gear up for these competitions, Marin
Rising herself was not surprised, consid-
stables are teeming with bright young stars
ering her love of horses began as a child, on
and a few veterans who live the grueling life
the wetlands that are now a thoroughfare for
of the competitive circuit. Some of the many
Highway 37. “When my father would go duck
events in California include the Indio in Palm
hunting, he’d let me ride the [duck] club’s
Desert in the Winter, the Pebble Beach series in
pony while he hunted,” she remembers. She
the spring/summer, and Woodside in June. It is
and her friends would ride to McDonalds, tie
not a seasonal sport—it’s a lifestyle, proven by
up their horses, and eat lunch. “We could go
the year-round training and show schedule.
into the hills for hours and explore trails on
Marin is the perfect location for life af-
ranches that are still open today,” she recalls
ter the competition spotlight as well. Take
fondly. “That’s the beauty of Marin; we have so
Sausalito-based Heidi Rickerd-Rizzo, for in-
much open space.” In addition to regular plea-
stance, who competed in the Hunter Jumper
sure riding, the Rising family continues to take
circuit for over a decade before playing pro-
lessons. “I’m still learning about horses,” she
fessional polo. Rizzo’s relationship with hors-
reveals. “Now I’m learning how to jump, which
es has come full circle. She grew up riding on
Still no man roar. But I sort of got all goosebumpy for a second. So take it from me, Bryan. If you’re a guy not sure of where you stand, try right in front of your BBQ with some tongs and a large pile of my Kabobs.
Rising is not alone in her devotion to the
“There is something really addictive be-
RIDE & TIE One unusual human and horse partnership is the sport of Ride & Tie, where two people share a horse and take turns running trail when not riding. Marin is a reputed hotbed of Ride & Tie. Mary Tiscornia of Larkspur has been in every championship race since the sport was invented in 1971. Seven-time world champion Mark Richtman lives in Novato. Russ Kiernan of Dipsea fame also participates at the top of the sport. Laurie Wilson and Carrie Barrett, both from Mill Valley, plan
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to team up for the 2006 World Championship, July 1 in Southern California, where they have an excellent shot at the world title. For more information, visit rideandtie.org.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/28/06 11:47:31 AM
WHERE TO RIDE IN MARIN
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Willow Tree Stables, guided trail rides through 3,000 acres of open s p a c e ( N ova t o ) , 4 1 5 . 8 9 7 . 8 2 1 2 , willowtreestables.com
LESSONS Idylwild Farms, training for firsttime riders to professional competitors (Santa Rosa), 707.546.4177, idylwildfarms.com Kilham Farm at Windfield Station, training for all levels hunter/jumpers (Nicasio), 415.662.2232, kilhamfarm.com
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Marin Stables, practical horsemanship lessons (Fairfax), 415.459.9455, marinstables.com Morning Star Farm, lessons for all levels, including hunter/jumper, dressage, and western pleasure (Novato), 415.897.1633, morningstarfarm.info Ridgetop Ranch, individual and group lessons, development of riders for competition (Fairfax), 415.457.5096, rtrjumpers.com San Domenico Riding School, a riding school for all ages but specializing in children (San Anselmo), 415.258.1948, sandomenico.org Whileaway Farm, hunter/jumper lessons available to those who own their own horse; 7650 Lakeville Hwy, (Petaluma), 707.789.9234.
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MARIN JUNE 2006
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the beach in Bolinas, boarding her Anglo-Arab,
pfli e\n cffb
named Irish Spring, at Ben Meyer’s barn. Meyer was a renegade cowboy, who attracted all local teens with an interest in horses. Today, his barn is spruced up a bit, courtesy of its current owner, Suzie Tompkins-Buell, but for the folks who knew Meyer, the property still holds special memories. Rizzo now frequents Marin Stables in Fairfax, where she boards her new love, a Foundation quarter horse named Lexi. There she is involved in an effort by riders and the community to save the stables and its surrounding open space from a Marin Municipal Water District plan to use the land for warehousing. “Riding keeps me sane; having a horse is so special and part of my soul,” Rizzo says. “I am hoping to share this passion with my daughter as she gets older.” Horses are already a family affair for Novato’s Rankor family. Although mom
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two sons are keeping her busy with their rodeos and dedicated training. Fifteen-yearold Jamie is a burgeoning rodeo star who snagged the All Around Cowboy title at the 2004 Junior Rodeo in Willits. His favorite event is team roping, and that’s what he does every Saturday night at Morning Star Farm in Novato. “I never could have imagined when Jamie was five years old, attending horse camp for the first time, that this would grow into such a huge part of his life,” says Laura. “His passion for horses shows in everything he does.” More than simply a viable local niche, horseback riding may be the quintessential Marin County experience—allowing us to enjoy the gorgeous scenery while benefiting our minds and bodies. “Riding a horse is a fantastic way to get a great workout, while also
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getting in touch with your spirituality,” insists Burke. “Riding burns up to 364 calories an hour, and works muscles you didn’t know you had.” Mentally, it requires focus, balance, and above all else, patience, taking you entirely out of your usual rat race. After all, it’s quite difficult using your Treo when you have a pair of reins in your hands.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/28/06 11:52:33 AM
SAFETY FIRST Without the right gear or guidance, Professional trainer Anastasia Burke shares some safety tips: START WITH A REPUTABLE INSTRUCTOR OR GUIDE Even world champions take a lesson occasion-
51
e.
horseback riding can be dangerous.
Av 4 Sa n A selmo 4 1 5 . 4 8n5 . 0 1 0 4
Come celebrate the arrival of Ashley Morgan’s jewelry collection at Blanc. Fine chocolates will be served, because nothing goes better with Ashley Morgan’s chocolate diamond jewelry! Saturday, June 10th, 12pm - 4pm
ally, just to make sure they aren’t developing bad habits. If you’re a beginner, it’s even more important. Make sure your trainer teaches “from the ground up,” so that you learn how to safely work around the horse, both in and out of the saddle. CHOOSE A TIDY FACILITY Be sure the stalls and paddocks are clean, the horses are well-cared-for and treated kindly, and that safety for all is paramount. Ask to observe a lesson before you sign on; it’s important that you and the trainer have the same goals. BEGIN WITH PRIVATE LESSONS At least for the first few times. You will learn more in a shorter amount of time, and with more safety, than in a group environment. Your local tack store is often a great source for finding respected instructors and facilities. GET THE RIGHT GEAR According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, every year in the United States there are about 14,218 horseback-related injuries requiring a visit to the emergency room; 2,534 of them involve head injuries. So invest in a properly fitted ASTM-rated riding helmet (ranging from $50 to $150— far less than the cost of an X-ray or MRI). A bicycle helmet is called that because it is specifically designed for biking, not horseback riding.
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The day of Birth, Fatherhood, Graduation, Wedding... any occasion, any Kolo Album 1699 Market Street, San Francisco Monday–Saturday, 9:30–6:00 415.552.2355 www.flaxart.com
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Tiburon, the Railroad Town For nearly 84 years, it was all smoke and soot BY JIM WOOD
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A TIBBITTS PHOTO FROM THE BELVEDERE–TIBURON LANDMARKS SOCIETY ARCHIVES.
LO OK I NG BACK
D
ON’T LET TIBURON’S PLACID YACHT HARBOR, chic boutiques, and multimilliondollar homes fool you; the place has a smutty and sooty past. For nearly 84 years, it was, of all things, a railroad town.
“On May Day in 1884, Peter Donahue threw a party. It was a festive affair to celebrate his new
rail line from Point Tiburon to San Rafael.” These are the first sentences of Railroad Days in Tiburon, a pamphlet published in 1961 by the Belvedere-Tiburon Landmarks Society. And from those festivities, Tiburon’s identity as a railroad town proceeded down a colorful, at times chaotic, but eventually downhill track. Almost 84 years later, on September 26, 1967, the last freight train pulled out of Tiburon, along a route now occupied by a popular bayfront walking and biking path. Prior to 1884, the aforementioned Donahue, owner of the San Francisco and North Pacific Railway, had established a port near Petaluma. His goal: to transport as many San Franciscans as possible to the scenic Redwood Empire, first by ferry from the city, then by train to the Russian
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The Northwestern Pacific’s Tiburon Railroad Yard, circa 1922. The dirt road (right of center, middle of photo) approximates today’s Paradise Drive. Landmarks still standing include the Railroad-Ferry Depot (two-story gray building, on the left), the Corinthian Yacht Club (white building, left of center), and homes dotting the hills of Belvedere (in the background). Also still standing (but not in the photo), Old St. Hilary’s Chapel—built in 1888.
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“
Tiburon has suddenly transformed into a lively little business place with the promise of much ahead.
”
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— SAUSALITO NEWS, 1885
River and beyond. But to compete with bitter rival North Pacific Coast Railroad, which picked up its passengers in Sausalito, Donahue needed a ferry terminus closer to the city. Hence, the choice was Tiburon, then called Shark Point (Tiburon is the Spanish word for
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shark) or Point Tiburon. With speed unimagined nowadays, and aided by a new contraption called a steam shovel, Donahue’s team scooped hills onto flatlands, blasted three tunnels through mountainous ridges, and hammered down nine miles of track over bedrock, marshland, and hillside terrain. They also built a ferry slip, a wharf,
Ten Main Street, Tiburon, CA (415) 435-CAKE
a depot, and machine shops, and ferried three boardinghouses down from Donahue’s Petaluma location. “From the sleepiest and
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most primitive of settlements,” according to the Sausalito News in 1885, “Tiburon has suddenly transformed into a lively little business place with the promise of much ahead.” However, early Tiburon wasn’t just about railways. By the early 1890s, the industrious yards had constructed the Ukiah, a ferry nearly 300 feet long and 80 feet wide, capable of trans-
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porting well over 1,000 passengers along with 16 fully loaded freight cars. At the time it was presumed to be the world’s largest ferryboat— and “fully loaded freight cars” is not hyperbole. Tiburon’s ingenious workers built tracks across the wharf so that stocked train cars could be shunted directly onto the vessel, eliminating
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time-consuming unloading and reloading. Approaching the turn of the 20th century and with stops in San Rafael, Novato, Santa Rosa, Healdsburg, and as far north as Ukiah— Donahue’s SF & NP Railroad was carrying close to a million passengers a year, with net income exceeding $400,000. But it wouldn’t last. In 1907, the rail line merged with rival
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North S hore Railroad and several other lines to become the Northwestern P acific Railroad. Two years later, after a 25-year run, all pas-
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senger service out of Tiburon (save for a short run to S an Rafael) was discontinued. From then until 1967, the rail terminus was used for freight and maintenance purposes only. Yet, as often happens, there was an exception to the “ no passengers in or out of Tiburon” mandate. On a dark night in 193 4, with security on par with a modern-day presidential visit,
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an engine towing three P ullman cars crept into town. With machine-gun-toting G -men lining the tracks, the cars were quickly and quietly rolled— passengers still on board— onto a ferry that headed straight into S an Francisco Bay. Its destination: the recently completed, escape-proof prison on Alcatraz Island. Its manifest consisted of 52 hard-core felons being transferred from the federal penitentiary in Atlanta, G eorgia—
among them, America’s
P ublic Enemy Number One, Al Capone. Even without passenger service, however, Tiburon’s rail yards continued to bustle. According to Pictorial History of Tiburon, a California Railroad Town (S cotwell Associates, 198 4), “ freight trains still rolled in and out,
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some for maintenance, some to transfer their heavy-laden flatcars to barges for the trip across the water.” By 1950, more than 2,000 cars were handled each month, and a reporter described Tiburon as “ a bundle of tracks and a clump of smoky buildings on 42 acres of land . . . a workshop of noise, oil, welding, and hammering.” After completing its triweekly passenger runs from S an Rafael to Eureka,
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Northwestern P acific’s No. 3 would pull into Tiburon at night for cleaning and routine maintenance. “ In 1951, I started as an apprentice electrician, and one job was to check ol’ Number Three’s wiring, replace burned-out bulbs, and in general, tidy things up,” recounts Frank Buscher. Born and raised in Tiburon and having attended Tam High, Buscher still lives just a few doors from where he grew up. He got into Tiburon railroading following his father Fred’s example. “ Dad started in the 1920s, worked his way up to general foreman, and re-
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Design to Completion
NORTHBAY Kitchen & Bath
822 Petaluma Blvd North • Petaluma • 707.769.1646 • 1916 Yajome • Napa • 707.224.1020 www.4kitchens.com
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“
The place was jumping when I started; we could build anything from a clock’s delicate gear to a steam engine’s side rod.
”
— FRANK BUSCHER, 2006
tired in 1961; he was a taskmaster.” As for the younger Buscher, he was employed in rail yards until 1959, when he left at age 26 to become the area’s first fire chief (the Town of Tiburon wasn’t incorporated until 1964). “The place was jumping when I started; we could build anything from a clock’s delicate gear to a steam engine’s side rod,” Buscher recalls. “But by the end of the ’50s, things had slowed.” On a recent balmy afternoon—looking down from his hillside home onto Tiburon’s quaint and orderly Main Street and a complex of posh townhouses that surround a faux lagoon—Frank Buscher seemed a bit overwhelmed by the change he’s witnessed in his
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73 years. “Suddenly, the railroad left,” he muses. “The only thing still standing is that one
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palm tree with a plaque beneath it.” Buscher isn’t entirely accurate (see sidebar on page 73), but it’s easy to catch his drift. An area once covered with oily soil, iron rails, and dirty-windowed sheds and shops, now hosts million-dollar townhouses, a jewelry
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store selling Rolex watches and Cartier bracelets, and restaurants bearing names like Caffe Acri, Guaymas, and Servino Ristorante. And the air—previously pierced with shrill whistles, hissing steam, and steel hammers clanging on steel pegs—is now filled with sails luffing in a soft breeze, stylish moms chatting on cell phones, and toddlers shrieking as they chase
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after one another. Today, Tiburon is anything but a railroad town. Except in the memories of those who actually saw it as such, that train has passed.
Book online at www.MarinHotels.com or call to make a reservation. These hotels are managed by Joie de Vivre Hospitality. www.jdvhospitality.com Guestroom Photo: Cesar Rubio
Railroad historian Fred Codoni of Fairfax contributed to this story.
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WHERE DID THEY GO? From 1884 to 1967, South Marin’s Tiburon (pop. 8,800) was a whistle-blowing, metal-clanging railroad town. Now it’s a leafy
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suburb where residents and visitors enjoy striking views of San Francisco’s modern skyline. So where did the railroads go? A tribute to the town’s past is the Tiburon Railroad-Ferry Depot, which stands where it was constructed in 1884. A scale model of the Tiburon Rail Yards and adjacent ferry landings as they appeared in the 1920s dominates the downstairs. Lining the walls
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are historic photos of trains and ferries and, upstairs, docents conduct tours through the stationmaster’s living quarters, furnished as if it were 1930. The museum, staffed by the Belvedere-Tiburon Landmarks Society, is open on Wednesdays and Sundays, from 1 to 4 pm, through October. It is located at 1920 Paradise Drive; the phone number is 415.435.1853. The Railroad Palm and brass plaque, mentioned by former railroad worker Frank Buscher in the preceding story, is on the inside of Paradise Drive adjacent to the Point Tiburon lagoon. The Northwestern Pacific Railroad was noted for the palms and gardens surrounding its depots; the town of Tiburon required Point Tiburon’s
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developer to preserve this tree. The massive Ukiah (later renamed the Eureka)—the Tiburon-built walkingbeam paddle-wheel ferry capable of carrying over 1,000 passengers and 16 fully loaded freight cars—has gone through two multi-million dollar restorations and is moored at the Hyde Street Pier within the National Maritime Historical Park near San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf. Several vintage autos occupy its spacious hold and
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arcade games line its aisles. The park is open daily, 9 am to 5:30 pm; admission is $5; the phone number is 415.775.2665. The Northwestern Pacific Railroad’s illustrious locomotive #112—which in 1913 crashed through a weakened wharf into 50 feet of water and was then rebuilt in Tiburon’s rail
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yard and returned to duty—is in storage at the California State Railroad Museum in Old Town Sacramento. It is the only NWP locomotive still in existence; periodically, residents talk about having it returned and displayed in downtown Tiburon.
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412 Corte Madera Town Center Corte Madera, CA 94925 (415) 924-2210
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How to Love Los Angeles Five fun activities that could soften your heart to the City of Angels BY SAMANTHA SCHOECH
Clockwise from top left: Poolside at the famous Hotel Bel-Air; the serene view from Shutters on the Beach; the Huntley Hotel’s stunning lobby.
IT’S A MATTER OF PRIDE WHEN BAY AREA RESIDENTS wrinkle their noses upon mention of our neighbors to the south. We boo their Dodgers and make much of their smog and congested freeways. Smug and confident, we’re certain that ours is the more beautiful, sophisticated, environmentally righteous, culturally enlightened, but less surgically enhanced part of California. Most Angelinos, however, are oblivious to our rivalry, devoid of the inferiority complex we envision. Maybe this is because L.A. really isn’t so bad. In fact, if you open your mind and avoid rush hour, it can be an amazing place to spend a long weekend. There is one key to enjoying your visit: Let L.A. be L.A. Pervasive will be the traffic, smog, and would-be stars in ridiculous outfits. There’s still no city center or adequate public transportation to speak of—and you will still see way too many strip malls. But once you come to terms with these facts, the fun can begin.
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susanadler 1/3 SQUARE photography What to Do
people
celebrations
life
Stargaze Admit it—it’s at least a tiny thrill to eat your morning scone next to someone you’ve seen on the big screen. Perhaps you won’t get worked up spotting someone from Scrubs, but every-
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one likes a good Oscar-nominee sighting. Still, remember the rules. Under no circumstances do we ask for autographs, gawk, or look remotely impressed. Here’s where to spot celebs in their natural habitat: The bar at the Chateau Marmont hotel On my last visit, I saw Heath Ledger, Carol Burnett, Michelle Williams, Courtney Love, and Mischa Barton—all within the time it took to drink one $15 martini. 323.656.1010, chateaumarmont.com The restaurant at the Hotel Bel-Air Yes,
415.302.4970 | susanadler.com
the rich and famous still frequent this tuckedaway oasis for some peace and quiet. But this doesn’t mean you can’t cozy up at the next table, sipping your champagne while eavesdropping on Renée Zellweger’s next career move.
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Look Better Feel Your Best
310.472.5234, hotelbelair.com We are pleased to announce that we offer:
Witness Possible Television History It requires a drive to Burbank, but attending a live TV show taping cues you in to just how many people it takes to produce something mediocre. Unless you can spare half a day, avoid the sitcoms and head to NBC for The Tonight Show. Jay Leno is a genuinely funny guy, and you may be as lucky as those who saw Hugh
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Go to the Beach
Dr. Winfield treats the full range of skin problems, from acne to skin cancer to rare dermatological conditions. Dr. Winfield, a Tiburon resident, is a family dermatologist specializing in adolescent acne and cosmetic dermatology.
The beaches of Los Angeles are mythical—
real-life Malibu Barbies. On warm weekends,
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the beaches get crowded, and here’s why:
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home to laid-back surfers, tanned Gidgets, and
The water is actually warm! For a Northern
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Californian, this is incentive enough to visit.
1/3 SQUARE The Answ e r Ri s e s Every D a y!
For a relatively down-to-earth environment,
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Topanga State Park, located entirely within
head to Malibu. But for nonstop star sightings, the Venice Beach boardwalk is the place to be.
Take a Hike Los Angeles city limits, is considered the largest wildland area within a U.S. metropolis. With more than 36 miles of spectacular grassland trails, live oaks, and ocean views, you’ll forget all about the traffic. If the drive to Topanga is too daunting, try Griffith Park, home of the iconic Hollywood sign and the Los Angeles Zoo. There are 53 miles of trails, lots of wildlife, and—on clear days—fantastic views of the L.A. Basin.
WHERE TO STAY Shutters on the Beach is a haven of beachy elegance, perched right on the Santa Monica sand. It’s like staying at someone’s extraordinarily well-appointed beach house. Rates from $480. 800.334.9000, shuttersonthebeach.com
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Tucked into one of L.A.’s most exclusive neighborhoods, the Hotel Bel-Air is surrounded by sweet-smelling gardens and utter tranquility. It’s been catering to the A-list for more than 50 years. A recent $20 million face-lift updated its look, but
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Retro-chic meets country charm at Farmer’s Daughter. Located in the heart of the Fairfax neighborhood, it neighbors the farmer’s market, the Grove, and LACMA. Rates from about $149, depending on availability. 800.334.1658, farmersdaughterhotel.com
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Get Cultured We like to think L.A. is vapid, a place where image is everything, and substance is abused.
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But in truth, the city’s several great museums seriously jeopardize this stereotype. Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) This cavernous underground museum has impressive temporary exhibits and a permanent collection of works by the likes of Giacometti, Pollock, Rothko, and Diane Arbus. 213.626.6222, moca.org
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Diplomate: American Board of Plastic Surgery American Board of Surgery
Los Angeles County Museum of Art
American College of Surgeons, Fellow
(LACMA) L.A.’s answer to the de Young, with
Harvard College, A.B., 1961, cum laude
photography and modern art collections from
Harvard Medical School, 1965, cum laude
around the world. 323.857.6000, lacma.org The Getty Center Come for the views and the architecture, stay for the collection of Western art from the Middle Ages to the present. Admission is free, and parking is only $7. 310.440.7300, getty.edu The Getty Villa in Malibu Just reopened in
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January, this wonder of classical architecture houses the Getty’s collection of Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities. Tickets are free, but must be reserved in advance. 310.440.7300, getty.edu
WHERE TO EAT
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Try the Alcove Bakery & Café, where hipsters sit outside, enjoying their lattes and egg-and-prosciutto panini. The baked goods alone are worth the drive down Interstate 5. 1929 Hillhurst Ave. in Los Feliz, 323.644.0100. At a nondescript strip mall, tucked between Pizza USA and Blue Seal Drapery
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& Blinds, sits Nook. The tiny bistro offers modern home cooking, great prices, and a pleasant attitude (despite the sleek interior). 11628 Santa Monica Blvd., Ste. 9, 310.207.5160, nookbistro.com Fixed-price Sunday suppers at Lucques satisfy both the appetite and the desire to feel in the know. Chef Suzanne Goin, formerly of Chez Panisse, creates imaginative, homey menus that spotlight seasonal ingredients. 8474 Melrose Ave., 323.655.6277, lucques.com
www.kitchensplusdesign.com 901 A Street Suite D San Rafael CA 94901 Telephone: 415/453-9589 Fax: 415/257-4332
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MUSLIMS OF MARIN THE MOST END URING Muslim symbol in Marin County is not the over-told saga of J ohn Walker Lindh, the so-called American Taliban who ex changed his San Anselmo life for that of an Islamic revolutionary in Afghanistan, but instead our famed Civic Center in San Rafael. Perhaps because architect Frank Lloyd
Islamic community is another sign of local diversity STORY EVE PELL PHOTOS TIM PORTER
Wright spent time in Iran and Iraq when he was designing it, the center is steeped in Islamic influence—from its mosque-like blue dome to its soaring antenna that reaches 1 7 2 feet skyward like the spire of a minaret. Unfortunately, when many people think of Muslims these days, they are less apt to recall the numerous glories of Islamic civilization than they are to envision camels, colorful carpets, and, more recently, angry bearded men plotting anti-American acts. Think about it: If you hear someone ex claim, “Allah! ” you get quite a different impression than if that person yells “J esus Christ! ” or “D ios Mio! ” After the attacks of September 1 1 , 2 001 , hate crimes against Muslims increased all around the United States, but in Marin, they found that their neighbors were ex ceptionally tolerant and helped to ease their anx iety. “I felt sympathetic with the J apanese-Americans after Pearl Harbor,” says Sedi Sami, an
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T H I NK
Yacoob Modan stands in front of the Redwood Mosque.
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From left, Ebrahim Nana and his son Abdullah, the mufti at the Islamic Center of Mill Valley.
Iranian-American who, with her husband, runs Spotless Cleaners in
The Shiite Imam
San Rafael. “But nothing bad happened.”
Mehdi Khorasani is imam, or prayer leader, at the Redwood Mosque
The Muslims to whom I spoke blame the news media for what they
(also called the Islamic Society of California), a spiritual Shia retreat
feel are inaccurate, derogatory images of their religion. They wanted
located on 22 wooded acres above Fairfax. The small, gray-haired man
me to know the basics: that Islam, Christianity, and Judaism all trace
with spectacles and a neatly trimmed beard who wears a long gray
their roots to the ancient patriarch Abraham, who rejected the idola-
robe traces his lineage back to Muhammad. Like most of Marin’s Shia
try of his day for belief in one God, creator of all things; that Moses,
community, his family is Persian (Iranian) rather than Arab. Shia means
Jesus, and Muhammad were all prophets sent by God to help humanity
“follower,” and Shiites follow the family of the prophet. Smiling and
love one another and follow the Golden Rule; and that the archangel
hospitable, Khorasani sometimes gives visitors copies of the many reli-
Gabriel gave the word of God (the Koran) to Muhammad, who was
gious books he has written.
born in the sixth century.
Having lived in the U.S. for 30 years, Khorasani is a naturalized
Nearly one in five U.S. Muslims live in California, and at least 200,000
citizen and a successful businessman, but he deplores the materialism
(likely more) live in the Bay Area (exact numbers are hard to come by
and bustle of his adopted society. “As much as I am proud to be an
since the Census Bureau doesn’t track population by religion). At each
American,” he says, “I am sad that Americans are so busy that they
corner of Marin, Islam has many faces, from the Indian Sunni worshippers
don’t know about compassion and knowledge.” He goes on to say, “I
at the Islamic Center of Mill Valley to the mystic Sufis chanting at their
am sad to see lies in the media; real Islam does not agree to bombs, to
center in Bel Marin Keys. Local religious leaders estimate about 1,500
killing, or to any sort of violence.” Khorasani has retained his faith, still
Muslim families live here, divided among Islam’s three main branches.
fasting during Ramadan and facing Mecca to pray three times daily, a
Some 200 families are Sunni, about 300 are Sufi, and about 1,000 are
Shiite variation on the more common five times.
Shia, many of them Iranian emigrants. Some 300 Muslims, most of them African-American, are incarcerated at San Quentin.
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After the attacks of 9/11, Khorasani didn’t sleep for two days. “I lost some businessman friends in the twin towers,” he remembers. “I kept a
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Huzaiffa Azam facing the camera.
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Mufti Abdullah Nana leads a prayer at the Islamic Center of Mill Valley.
low profile; I did not do interviews.” S ince then, he says, CIA and FBI
An example is alcohol. “ You are not to touch it, serve it, sell it, produce
agents have interviewed him about 20 times. When they do, Khorasani
it, transport it, or finance it; if there is one ill-gotten penny, your whole
shows them the letter he received from former P resident J immy Carter
fortune is contaminated—
thanking him for trying to help resolve the Iranian hostage crisis, and
Theft is another example. “ The fee at this motel used to be $ 29.99; if
the photo of himself with the Dalai Lama. “ When I see a car drive up
someone left $ 3 0, my father would force us to go up to their room and
and two men get out, I pray, ‘ Allah, please give me patience, please
give back the penny.”
make me be nice,’” he says.
that could get embarrassing,” Nana says.
Nana’s son Abdullah, a 27-year-old Tamalpais High graduate who studied Islam for seven years in S outh Africa, is now the mufti, his
The Sunni Family
mosque’s second-ranking cleric. As a mufti, Abdullah can issue fatwas,
S unnis believe in following the sunnah, or tradition, of Muhammad
or rulings, that are binding on his congregation. They range in issues
rather than his lineage. Most S unnis in Marin are originally from
from ethical investments and marital problems to juggling the demands
the western Indian state of G ujarat. Ebrahim Nana was one of the
of a job with the requirement to pray five times daily.
first when he moved here in the 1970s, shortly before acquiring the
When I interviewed Abdullah Nana at the spacious, red-carpeted
Travelodge motel and restaurant in Mill V alley, across Highway 101
mosque, his young wife joined us. V eiled in black, with only her face
from S trawberry. After earning a B.S . from U C Berkeley and an M.S .
showing, she sat still, running prayer beads through her fingers, which
from S tanford U niversity in industrial engineering, Nana opened the
reminded me of a Catholic saying the rosary. He explained that the
offices of his company, Nana Wall S ystems, in the same building. He
Islamic concept of modesty, as commanded by the Koran, is a means of
belongs to the mosque at the Islamic Center of Mill V alley, but also vol-
showing respect for women and for emphasizing internal beauty and
unteers at the Muslim chapel at S an Q uentin.
virtue rather than the external.
In general, S unnis observe the rules of their faith more strictly than
After 9/ 11, neighbors of the mosque, which is located on a quiet
S hiites and S ufis do, with S unni women more likely to cover their hair.
street in Mill V alley’s Alto neighborhood, brought over beverages and
“ If anything, Islam is more categorical than other religions,” says Nana.
fruit, and the county sheriff department put on extra patrols. Nana says
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GOING TO THE MOSQUE
Abdullah Nana said I was welcome to attend Friday services at the Islamic Center of Mill Valley, so I went. Jim Wood, executive editor of this magazine, also came. When I arrived, a dozen or so men in white crocheted caps stood outside the mosque. He asked one of them if he and I could sit together. “No,” the man firmly answered, so I walked to the women’s entrance and walked in. I found myself in a space that was empty except for a few chairs. It was separated from the mosque’s main room by an opaque glass wall. Because I couldn’t see the service, I wondered
“
Real Islam does not agree to bombs, to killing, or to any sort of violence.
if I was in the right place. I went outside and informed a man that
”
— MEHDI KHORASANI
I couldn’t see the goings-on. “That’s right,” he said, so I reentered, adjusted the scarf over my head, and removed my shoes. Soon another woman entered, veiled from head to toe in
that because J ohn Walker Lindh had attended that mosque, they were
white seersucker. A study in piety, she faced the glass wall and
prepared for publicity, official surveillance, and general curiosity. “W e
began to pray, alternately kneeling, prostrating herself, and
had nothing to hide; we let people in,” Nana says. The mosque’s of-
standing. I could barely hear the words of the sermon, which
fice received a couple of angry phone messages, but there were no
was spoken in English. The speaker, citing Michael Jordan and
other incidents.
Bill Gates, warned of the spiritual perils of materialism and bad values. I also heard chanting and praying in Arabic, along with periods of silence. As soon as the service ended, my sole companion in the women’s area walked over and asked me politely, “Why you no
Nana’s younger son currently attends Tam High, where there are about 20 other Muslim students. S ome female students wear coverings on their heads, and, on request, the school provides rooms for prayer— one for boys and one for girls.
pray?” I explained that I am a reporter and not Muslim. She, in turn, works at a convalescent home, and is originally from
The Sufi Couple
Morocco. I asked her if the mosque’s lack of women was usual.
Ali Kianfar and his wife, Nahid Angha, subscribe to S ufism, the more
“Yes,” she replied, she is usually the only one. Does she mind the barrier between herself and the men? “No,” she told me, “I like the privacy.” She explained that it’s similar to her American
mystical side of Islam. A hawk-faced, fit-looking, Iranian-born man who’s lived in the U nited S tates for 28 years, Kianfar runs a printing
girlfriends liking to exercise without men at the gym. Too many
business in S an Rafael. He and his wife also founded the International
jokes and remarks, she explained, are the reasons she only
Association of S ufism, which is headquartered in Novato.
wears her veil when attending services.
S ufis differ from other Islamic worshippers by seeking unity with
She wanted me to know that she works by choice, and that
the divine through chanting and meditation, says Kianfar. “ We are im-
her husband would support her if she so desired. “People think
patient,” he says. “ We don’t want to wait to experience G od.” Terrible
that Muslim husbands give orders, and that their wives have to obey,” she laments. She’s quite independent, spending the money she earns the way she likes. After answering a call on
crimes have been committed in the name of religion, he adds, because people mix religion with power and politics, twisting it with their minds
her cell phone, she volunteered one more glimpse into her life.
instead of following it with their hearts. “ It is better if we tell all these re-
“We Muslims have a lot of pressure on us—when something
ligious people, ‘J ust shut up!’” he says. “ Then we will understand Islam.”
is in the news, people look at us with suspicion,” she told me. “There is more pressure on us than on anyone.”
His wife puts it another way. “ According to the P rophet, there are as many roads to G od as there are people in the world,” she says. “ If there are 10 billion people, there are 10 billion roads to G od.”
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KITCHEN ALFRESCO MARIN HOMEOWNERS ENJOY OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING STORY P. J. BREMIER PHOTOS BARBARA RIES
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HOME D E S I G N
W
HY JUST HAVE A BACKYARD barbecue when
you can move the entire kitchen outside? That’s what some homeowners are asking, having ventured past the basic grill to install gorgeous, fully outfitted outdoor kitchens—and designers are stepping up to the challenge. Mike Sunderland, from Oasis Landscape Construction in San Rafael, sees the trend in full swing. “Over the last five years or so, they’ve become really popular,” he says. “Many of our jobs now involve outdoor fireplaces and kitchens.” Sunderland attributes this to “our great weather and the fact that more people are staying at home, entertaining their friends there; it’s the same reason we see more pools going in, more pool remodels being done, and more spas being requested.” Cliff Bolton of Consolidated Construction in San Rafael agrees. He just installed an outdoor kitchen for a client on the Belvedere Lagoon, complete with high-end appliances: warming drawers, a refrigerator, a barbecue with rotisserie, and a sink with a garbage disposal. The kitchen was finished with limestone countertops, good lighting, a sound system, facilities for a television, and a spacious dining area. “It’s like being at a resort when you’re at this property,” says Bolton. “Maybe that’s what the trend is about—people duplicating resort living.” It makes sense. When Marin’s natural beauty and great climate are paired with the convenience and comfort of home, one’s own backyard can become a favorite retreat.
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Loggia Living K entfield’s Rick and Nö el Stubblefield worked with architects J ared Polsky and K arin Taylor to create a lux urious, Tuscan-style loggia in their garden that not only houses a kitchen, but serves as a garden destination. Stubblefield’s requirements for the space were few: “I wanted a barbecue that would be easy to use, a fireplace, a warm and cozy environment, and I wanted it to include a fish-motif mosaic that my father made 5 0 years ago.” She got that and more from designers Eugene Nahemow and D avid Rivera of San Francisco’s Nahemow Rivera Group. Along with a 4 8 -inch Thermador barbecue, custom stainless-steel cabinets, and hood and sink by Seaport Stainless, the kitchen has a fullsize Sub-Z ero refrigerator, a Miele dishwasher, custom-dyed alder wood cabinetry, a backsplash of colorful, diamond-shaped Walker Z anger tiles, and a prominent bar counter inlaid with the family’s prized heirloom mosaic. The same Arkins Park stone that surrounds the pool was chosen for the loggia’s flooring, thus blurring the line between the two spaces. Another crossover is achieved by low-voltage, directional landscape lighting installed in the ceiling’s truss system. The nearby dining room’s central feature is a teak table situated under a cupola seating up to 1 2 . The space is softly lit by a Holly Hunt chandelier resembling a collection of semimelted candles. “What I love most about this whole thing is that light fix ture,” Stubblefield says. “It’s so beautiful, and people always ask me how much time I spent lighting the candles before they came.” At the far end of the loggia is the living room, with pairs of comfortable sofas and chairs grouped in front of a two-sided fireplace. The outer side warms guests who want to linger in chairs under open sky. On the wall, hidden behind a large pair of replica barn doors, is a 5 0inch Fujitsu plasma television. Stubblefield uses this room to “watch football games in the winter with the fire going, have our friends over for a barbecue in the summer, or just sit and look at the beautiful view of Mount Tam.”
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Surf’s Up!
plasma-screen television. When the mood calls for music, a sophisti-
In one Mill Valley yard, an upslope garden, with a swimming pool and
cated sound system delivers.
built-in waterslide, provides the backdrop for summertime fun. But it’s
The sheltered kitchen contains everything needed to cook an en-
the playful outdoor kitchen that serves up the fare for hungry swim-
tire meal: a Dacor barbecue with two gas burners, two Dacor warm-
mers and guests.
ing drawers, an under-counter U-Line refrigerator stocked with chilled
The owner requested that the outdoor kitchen be “fun and tropi-
drinks, and a U-Line ice maker for a continual supply of cold cubes.
cal,” says designer Janine Francesca Peck of Design Orendain in Mill
The cabinetry is made of durable Alaskan cedar, and the client chose
Valley. “She really wanted to entertain on all levels. She wanted a bar
Brazilian “Anaconda Green” granite for the countertops because of its evo-
with a television, a music system, and to be able to cook an entire meal
cation of jungle leaves. Two pineapple-motif ceiling fans cool guests with
there. She also wanted it to be continually useful from daytime into
a gentle breeze, while two electronic skylights provide even more circula-
evening. We put in warming drawers, so someone who was sitting at
tion. Low-voltage, overhead cable lighting undulates for visual interest.
the fire ring could still pull out something warm to eat when the sun was going down.”
Nearby, a semicircular stucco sofa, built around the fire ring, provides a space where adults can visit while watching their children
The island bar, a custom replica of an old “woodie” surfboard, is
swim. Later in the evening, it’s perfect for toasting marshmallows. The
suspended from a steel support, and has footrests for comfort. Friends
sofa’s armrests, topped with the same Anaconda Green granite as the
can gather there to chat with the chef or watch programs on the large
countertops, are oversized to accommodate a plate or a glass.
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“
Maybe that’s what the
trend is about—people
”
duplicating resort living.
— CLIFF BOLTON
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Tiered for Taste Outdoor kitchens do not necessarily require a lot of space. Creative designers can find clever ways to incorporate one into almost any niche of garden space. Landscape architect Pete Pedersen, of Pedersen Associates in San Rafael, and project manager A.J . Shepard took advantage of a tiered garden in the Tiburon hills, separating significant elements of an outdoor kitchen into two spaces. On the top level, they built an entire kitchen and dining terrace against the hillside, using indigenous serpentine to form a dramatic backdrop for the space. A trellis shelters the chef from the heat of the daytime sun and also holds lighting for evening cooking. This rustic-style kitchen has a grill, a lower burner for a large stockpot, a sink, and storage space. Central to the terrace is a beautiful wooden harvest table that offers diners not only a place to sit and chat while the chef is cooking, but also an ex traordinary view of San Francisco Bay. The prox imity of the table was important to Pedersen’s client, who “wanted to be able to pull the food right off the grill while
“
In terms of value, you are
really creating an outdoor room, and usually for quite a bit less
”
than an addition to the home.
it was still hot and place it on the table.”
— PETE PEDERSON
The lower terrace holds a pizza oven and fireplace made from serpentine fieldstones quarried from the site, and seating where friends and family can gather after a quick dip in the pool.
Outdoor Kitchen Basics There are several things to consider when planning an outdoor kitch-
Pedersen recommends installing “good lighting to make the kitchen available for year-round use; seating so that it’s comfortable enough for people to want to gather there; and a nice sound system as part of the whole outdoor area.”
en. First, says Pedersen, if the kitchen is close to the house, “then you
Of course, says D avid Rivera, the heart of an outdoor kitchen is a
really only need the basics—a gas grill and enough counter space to
“big, high-horse power barbecue.” Pedersen agrees, but although he ad-
place entré es and to serve a small supper or glass of wine.” The farther
mits that “guys do want to gather around the grill,” he doesn’t consider
away from the house, he says, the more “you need to consider creating
the grill a focal design element. Therefore, he likes to tuck it behind
a kitchen that is more of a destination, a magnet. You want it to be a
a bar or close to a chimney. After all, “it’s not this altar to smoke and
place where people can hang out when you’re cooking, so that you’re
flame,” he says with a laugh.
not isolated. You want the people you’re entertaining to be engaged. It’s the same thing as with an indoor kitchen.” J anine Francesca Peck of D esign Orendain says the typical outdoor kitchen has a barbecue, sink, countertops, a bank of cabinets,
How much can an outdoor kitchen cost? “It can start at $ 1 0,000 and go to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on what you want,” says Rivera. “You can add a beer dispenser, a high-end wine refrigerator, a pizza oven, a fire pit, an ice machine—you name it! ”
and, often, a refrigerator. But “if you really want to entertain,” she
In the end, though, a well-designed outdoor kitchen might prove
adds, “you need a bar area where you can make drinks and serve hors
to be a savvy investment. “In terms of value, you’re really creating an
d’oeuvres while you’re cooking.” Peck also suggests storing a full set
outdoor room, and usually for quite a bit less than an addition to the
of outdoor glassware, tableware, and serving equipment in the cabi-
home,” says Pedersen. “Often, where the size of a house is constrained,
nets, as well as a dishwasher to prevent having to carry dishes back
these outdoor rooms play an important role in max imizing the use and
and forth from inside.
enjoyment of a property.”
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C A ST L E S A N D TEXT & PHOTOS SEAN ARBABI / ARBABI IMAGERY
THE OLD-WORLD LEGACY AND NEWWORLD CULTURE OF SCOTLAND “What it must have been like to defend this
ter the Great Ice Age, but Celtic settlers
place a thousand years ago,” I thought as
who engendered the current inhabitants
I stood in a dark, cold doorway within the
arrived around 500 B.C. Despite a turbulent his-
ruins of Dirleton Castle. In a time when travelers
tory of war, attempted invasions, and a lengthy
seek out the latest and greatest draw, a country
struggle with England for independence, Scotland
whose premier destinations are more than a half-
has not changed much from its origins. With few-
century old is a welcome change.
er than five million living there, roughly 65 percent
Scotland’s history dates back 8,000 years to when it was first colonized af-
92
of the Bay Area population, concepts like urban sprawl or “Los Angelization” are nonexistent.
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J OU RNE Y
COUNTRYSIDE
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Previous page: Tantallon Castle in East Lothian. Clockwise from above: A bagpipe player on Princes Street; a herd of sheep at Helen Lothian’s 16th-century farm; a visitor sits at Dirleton Castle; tourists’ view from Edinburgh Castle.
94
Edinburgh
ond most-visited area in the United Kingdom
As we entered the city after dark, on our
behind London.
fourth day of road-tripping from London, the
We chose to stay in Tourist Board–rec-
feel of this old-world European metropolis
ommended bed-and-breakfasts all along the
took hold. Scotland’s capital since 1437, some-
way, hoping to get a feel for the real Scottish
times referred to as the “Athens of the North,”
lifestyle. Our first stop was the Auld Reekie
Edinburgh (pronounced “Ed-in-bur-ruh”) ex-
Guesthouse, translated as “Old Smoky,” a nick-
udes a mix of historic sophistication and new
name for Edinburgh affectionately coined by
town culture, typified by the Internet cafés
Lowland Scots. The Victorian B&B was quaint,
sprinkled amid its neoclassical architecture.
comfortable, and only a stone’s throw from
A half-million Scots reside here, the country’s
the city’s historic center called the Royal Mile,
second-largest city behind Glasgow, and with
Old Town, and New Town. Strolling amid lo-
13 million tourists a year, Edinburgh is the sec-
cals and tourists down Princes Street gave a
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true glimpse of the hustle and bustle of mod-
hills and moorlands, subtle valleys, and rocky
ern urban Europe, complete with frenzied taxi
coastline.
drivers, hotels, shops, gardens, and monu-
Willy and Helen Lothian run a bed-and-
ments. One striking piece of architecture that
breakfast on their 16th-century farm in Fala,
caught my eye was the Scott Monument, a
a small community in the Midlothian area
200 foot-high memorial built in 1840 to writer
southeast of Edinburgh. The hosts gave us a
Sir Walter Scott, arguably Edinburgh’s most fa-
wonderful glimpse into Scottish country life,
mous novelist and poet.
as well as into the workings of a 279-acre farm dotted with grazing sheep and planted with
The Scottish Borders
wheat and barley (for use in beer and whis-
Blanketing an area roughly 1,800 square miles
key production). After dinner one evening,
across the southeast section of the country, the
Willy introduced us to Billy, an old friend he
Scottish Borders is interwoven with rolling
described as “a true Scotsman” fluent in the
SCOTLAND ON THE WEB Edinburgh’s official tourism site: edinburgh.org Scottish Borders tourism board: scot-borders.co.uk Willy and Helen Lothian’s B&B: members.farmline.com/falahall_farm_ bandb Information on Sir Walter Scott: walterscott.lib.ed.ac.uk
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“
It’s good to dread
Gaelic language. “Ceud mille failte!” Billy
sies—but we couldn’t deny the young boys in
greeted us in hearty traditional fashion (“a
us, the ones who’d dreamed of medieval bat-
the worst, for the best
hundred thousand welcomes”). Once a week,
tles in a castle.
Billy walks the five miles to the Lothian farm
Evidence of Scotland’s turbulent history,
will be all the more
to practice accordion with Willy. It was a treat
castles are spread throughout the nation, dot-
listening to songs and laughter throughout
ting the landscape from the highlands to the
welcome.
the evening.
lowlands. During our stay we visited three:
”
—OLD SCOTTISH SAYING
96
Edinburgh, Tantallon, and Dirleton.
The Castles
Home to the Scottish crown jewels,
My companion and I jousted back and forth,
Edinburgh Castle, a World Heritage site, rests
mock sword-fighting in an expansive stone
high on a volcanic outcrop overlooking the
room lit only by the sun. I’m sure we looked
city of the same name, commanding panoram-
silly—grown men acting out Arthurian fanta-
ic views of the countryside and the Firth of
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Forth (an estuary opening to the North Sea).
favorite of the three. Going on a rainy day, we
Although the crag has been used for a variety
were the only visitors to its ancient fortress
of military purposes since 900 B.C., the oldest
and romantic gardens. Complete with circular
building of the current castle dates back only
towers, a moat and drawbridge, and a variety
to the 12th century.
of gun sites, the castle once guarded a strategi-
Tantallon Castle, a 14th-century strong-
cally important east-west route. As I explored
hold, was built on the edge of a cliff with views
its rooms and halls, dim and dank even in mid-
of the North Sea. We visited its grounds during
day, I thought of the people who fought so
the day, but I could easily envision how it must
hard to protect these lands. The efforts to gain
look during a dramatic North Sea storm, dark
independence reminded me of something I had
clouds above and battering seas below.
recently read. “It’s good to dread the worst,” a
Dirleton Castle, a 12th-century fortress east of Edinburgh along the Firth of Forth, was my
Counterclockwise from above: The bronze statue of Wellington, across from the Balmoral Hotel’s clock tower; the view from atop Castle Rock; phone booths flank Edinburgh Castle; the shops of Princes Street and New Town.
Scot saying goes, “for the best will be all the more welcome.”
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W I N E CO UNT RY
Summertime Fun Endless sunshine and events for deserving dads BY KATHERINE MARTIN
Across Sonoma Mountain, wisps of sea fog are
of the carefree, earthy vibe that enchanted the
the wines are guaranteed to be good. If walls
stealing. The afternoon sun smolders in the
writer still remains. June is the perfect month
of cigar smoke seem daunting to you or
drowsy sky. I have everything to make me glad I
to pay tribute to Dad with panache this year,
your old man, there’s also the Vintage 1870
am alive.
by bringing him to one of the numerous go-
Father’s Day Invitational Auto Show on
ings-on in Wine Country.
the same day in Yountville (707.944.2451,
—John Barleycorn, 1913
At the Cigar Festival in Sonoma’s SL
yountville.com). One-of-a-kind collector
words at the turn of the 20th cen-
Cellars on June 18 (707.833.4455, slcel-
curiosities from the likes of Packard, Ford,
tury, praising the environs of his
lars.com), they’ll be pairing over a dozen
Ferrari, and Mercedes are more likely to give
Glen Ellen ranch, he probably never dreamed
international cigars with ports, beers, and
your papa a jump start than another set of
the rural nook he so prized would turn into a
sparkling wines. It’s exactly the kind of old-
grilling tongs (trust me on this one). Vintage
bustling tourist destination. Thankfully, much
school decadence that dads would dig—and
car collecting is a local passion that rivals
W
HEN JACK LONDON wrote these
1/2 HORIZONAL
ADVERTISER
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5/1/06 10:37:30 AM
our love of food and wine, so the vehicles
dance of beer appreciation, too. On June 3
This month in Wine Country also brings us
are bound to be beautiful.
at the Wells Fargo Center for the Arts (for-
music and merriment at the Healdsburg Jazz
Forging on with the stereotypes (they do ex-
merly the Luther Burbank Center) in Santa
Festival from June 1 to 11 (707.433.4633,
ist for a reason, no?), fathers who love the links
Rosa, over 35 Northern Californian micro-
healdsburgjazzfestival.com). It’s a great event
can participate in the Beringer Winetaster’s
brews team with gourmet food and live music
for indulging your inner bohemian and see-
Golf Classic on June 21 at Napa’s swanky
(707.887.7031, lbc.net). After recently vis-
ing musicians like McCoy Tyner, once the pia-
Silverado Country Club (707.257.0200, sil-
iting the East Coast and drinking what is lib-
nist for the great John Coltrane. The events
veradoresort.com). The fee’s not slight—$1,500
erally referred to as beer, I have a newfound
take place at appealing, hipster-heavy haunts
for a foursome—but includes dinner for eight at
appreciation for the interesting brews to which
like Hotel Healdsburg and Barndiva. Also
Beringer Vineyards (707.255.0950, beringer.
we have such easy access. Handcrafted beer is
in the lineup, rock and roll and RoShamBo
com), a day on Silverado’s glorious grounds,
the new connoisseur’s trend, and our area is
(the rock, paper, scissors game) at the fun-
and of course, the chance to benefit athletic pro-
putting American brews on the map. If you’re
loving Roshambo Winery in Healdsburg on
grams at local Justin-Siena High School. Last but
looking for something a little more formal,
June 3 (707.431.2051, roshambowinery.
certainly not least, Hog Island oysters and wine
drink your brew with global foods at Ramekins
com). Players from all over the country convene
are aplenty at Geyserville’s Trentadue Winery
on June 9 (707.933.0450, ramekins.com).
for this Pro-Am event, which offers winners a
on the 18th (707.433.3104, trentadue.com).
British-born chef Karen Eidson will teach how
slice of the $1,700 booty.
My own father is responsible for my love of oys-
to cook six ethnic dishes to enjoy with various
For Jack London, Wine Country offered a
ters—no small feat, since I avoided them for the
beers from around the globe, including Flying
respite from his chaotic work life in the city,
first 25 years of my life—so this event resonates
Horse (India), Tsing Tao (China), and Red
and 100 years later, hardworking connois-
with me. A touch of horseradish, perhaps some
Stripe (Jamaica). This combines a number of
seurs still head up north for a reminder of
hot sauce, and voilà! You’re good to go.
trends—beer appreciation, food and beer pair-
what makes life worth living. There is no bet-
ing, ethnic cooking—and thus goes far beyond
ter month than June to recharge and unwind
simply sipping a cold one.
among the vines.
Keeping with events that typical dads (and men in general) would love, there’s an abun-
1/2 HORIZONAL
DI S C O V E R M A R I N ’S M O S T EXTRAORDINARY MARKET
ADVERTISER
PARADISE FOODS
A Classic Market
5627 Paradise Drive in Corte Madera • 415.945.8855 • Catering 415.945.7753
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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RAMBLING
PHOTOGRAPHY: BARTONE
1/3 VERTICAL
ADVERTISER
Seven-Mile Ocean View A tough but stunning coastal loop ere’s one of Marin’s most spectacular
H
vation gain) until intersecting with the Deer
loop hikes, one that begins and ends
Park Fire Road, where you’ll take another
within half a mile of the charming
right. In less than half a mile, the famed
Pelican Inn on Highway 1 at Muir Beach. Fair
Dipsea Trail will start weaving back and
warning: At nearly seven miles and 1,300 feet
forth with Deer Park Fire Road. But stay on
in elevation gain, this is no cakewalk. Plan on
the fire road for the road less traveled. With
it taking at least three hours.
its many huge, fire-scarred redwoods, this
The trailhead is Santos Meadow, at mile-
area—William Kent’s former hunting pre-
post 3.21, on Muir Woods Road as it runs west
serve Deer Park—is among the most haunt-
from Panoramic Highway to Highway 1. Walk
ing sights on Mount Tam. After about two
diagonally left across the meadow following
miles, at a signed junction, the Dipsea Trail
tire tracks to the Heather Cut-off Trail. What
turns left down into Muir Woods. Remain on
follows are 21 well-constructed switchbacks—
the Deer Park Fire Road until it returns you
and the higher you get, the better the view.
to Muir Woods Road. For your last mile or
Soon San Francisco, a slice of the Pacific, and
so of hiking, cross the road and turn right
Sutro Tower all come into sight; below is the
on the wildflower-enhanced Redwood Creek
old Banducci Gardens. Founded in the 1920s,
Trail. Depending on the creek’s height, you
and for years a major supplier of the city’s cut
may have to head downstream a spell before
flowers, it’s still replete with heather—hence
crossing over to Santos Meadow.
the trail’s name. After you crest at the 1.3-mile mark, take Pedersen Associates Landscape Architects www.pedersenassociates.com 24 H Street San Rafael CA 94901 415 456 2070
100
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BY BARRY SPITZ
a right on the Coastal View Trail, and this—
Who knows. You may find yourself walking clear to the Pelican Inn, where a cold pint and a warm fire await you.
because it offers even more sensational views and includes a section in the woods—will be
Barry Spitz, in association with the Anne T.
the jewel of the loop. Stay on Coastal View
Kent California History Room, is the author of
for two miles (plus nearly 1,000 feet in ele-
Marin: A History.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
5/3/06 1:49:30 PM
Representing and marketing the most distinctive real estate in Marin.
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Anna K. Pennington-Boucher Luxury Home Specialist anna@worldclassproperties.com 415.860.1399 www.worldclassproperties.com
Point Reyes from Double Point
Tom Killion
Woodcut, 30” x 34” giclee print
MARIN/SCAPES 200 6 18th Annual Fine Art Exhibit and Sale 300 Original Works by 63 Contemporary Artists Opening Night Gala • June 22, 6:30 - 9:30pm Public Exhibit & Sale • July 1-4, Noon - 6:00pm Escalle Winery, 771 Magnolia Avenue, Larkspur, CA (415) 457-6966, x223 • marinscapes.org
Art That Changes Lives A B E N E F I T F O R B U C K E L E W P RO G R A M S A f f o r da b l e H o u s i n g , E m p l o y m e n t S e r v i c e s a n d R e c ov e r y S u p p o rt f o r A d u lt s w i t h M e n ta l I l l n e s s
GA L L E RI E S
Snowcaps, Cities, and Surfboards June has art for every palate BY ANNE CRUMP RAY
A
Josh, are frequently called in to consult with
and his parents were collectors. He
For locals with an interest in early
“I want to conjure some vague sense of
even worked as an art dealer while still at-
American art, Garzoli Gallery is an unparal-
déjà vu, a visual memory trigger,” Shine says.
tending the University of San Francisco. In
leled trove.
“I like the idea of carnivals that have broken
rt is in John Garzoli’s blood. His uncle
it might have washed up on the shore after
was painter Giuseppe Cadenasso
museums looking to edify their collections.
being tumbled in the waves.
1981 Garzoli moved to Marin, and seven years
Garzoli Gallery, 10–4 Tues–Sat and
later he bought a commercial building in San
by appointment, 930 B St., San Rafael,
Rafael, establishing Garzoli Gallery as a locus
415.459.4321, garzoligallery.com
for his expanding art business. Today Garzoli Gallery boasts one of the world’s largest inventories of 19th- and early 20th-century American art, ranking among the top purveyors in the country. It
Bolinas waterfront and the T-shirts embla-
S
zoned with those same images. His cur-
Gallery this month, with a celebra-
rent paintings grew out of a project for his
tion of beach living and surf cul-
nearby cabin, a base for surfing with his
ture. Marin resident and longtime surfer Mike Shine, who divides his time between
graphic regions, styles, artists, and subject
Mill Valley and Bolinas, presents nearly 50
matter, but its holdings of California art are
of his colorful, surf-themed paintings from
a particular strength.
June 3 through 25 at the historic Bolinas
Garzoli says. At any given time, the chang-
Stagecoach Barn, adjacent to the Bolinas Museum.
ing display includes roughly 100 works,
Shine’s work highlights a widespread, re-
ranging from oil paintings and watercol-
newed interest in the early days of surfing,
ors to sculptures, and representing such
when athletes used longer boards and what
celebrated artists as Albert Bierstadt,
he calls “funkier equipment.” Surf culture
Sanford R. Gifford, William Hahn, Thomas
used to be oriented around a do-it-yourself
Hill, Arthur Mathews, and Joseph Raphael.
philosophy—not high-tech gear. To empha-
While the breadth of Garzoli’s inventory is
size a return of the old, Shine frequently in-
notable, the gallery’s primary focus is on se-
corporates scraps of driftwood collected
curing each artist’s highest caliber of work;
from the beach. In his most recent pieces,
as a result, Garzoli and his sons, Joel and
he even distresses the painting to suggest
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
102-105_Galleries.indd 103
Visitors may recognize Shine’s art from his paintings on the break walls along the
ummer hits full stride at Bolinas
represents a broad array of media, geo-
“We have a very eclectic mix on view,”
up, then float back and come together.”
MARIN JUNE 2006
103
5/1/06 1:59:49 PM
Previous page, above: Winter in Yosemite Valley, 14 1/4” x 19 1/8”, oil on paper by Albert Bierstadt, Garzoli Gallery; below: 5 Over, 24” x 36” acrylic on canvas by Mike Shine; this page, at left: Wallpaper, Curtains, Antique Chairs, Carpet and Tiles, Sliding Doors, Blinds, Decorations, 108” x 80” mixed media on canvas by Rigo, Gallery Paule Anglim
an Francisco’s
S
Rigo’s current works build on a previous series
G a l l e r y Pa u l e
exploring U.S. relationships with China and
Anglim spotlights
Taiwan. Created after a 1997 visit to Taiwan,
three esteemed young
they compiled visuals from multiple urban
contemporary artists:
landscapes to make imagined portraits of the
Rigo, Barry McGee, and
island. Now, Rigo broadens his scope to incor-
Clare Rojas. The exhibi-
porate other regions and cultures.
family—his three sons share his passion for
tion features new works—paintings and mixed-
McGee and Rojas offer their unique urban
the sport—and making art. Shine started
media by Rigo, and collaborative mixed-me-
perspectives in complementary but distinctly
sharing his paintings with the public only
dia installations by McGee and Rojas. Their
different presentations. Known individually for
after filling the cabin’s walls with his surf-
work is known for evincing an urban social con-
their skilled application of almost childlike aes-
inspired works.
sciousness, using accessible imagery that’s of-
thetics in addressing social ills, they work to-
ten whimsical rather than oblique.
gether here, using humor and craftsmanship
An opening reception for the exhibition will be held at the gallery on Saturday, June 3; contact the artist for details.
Originally from Portugal, Rigo earned a
to create a visually engaging environment
BFA from the San Francisco Art Institute and
that merges fairy tale with cultural exposé.
Bolinas Gallery, 12–5 Sat–Sun, 52 Wharf
an MFA from Stanford. He’s recognized for
Gallery Paule Anglim, 10–5:30 Tues–
Rd., Bolinas, 415.868.0782; Mike Shine,
both his monumental public installations and
Fri, 10–5 Sat, 14 Geary St., San Francisco,
mshine@bssp.com, shinelounge.com
smaller-scale pieces in museums and galleries.
415.433.2710, gallerypauleanglim.com
1/2 HORIZONAL
ADVERTISER
104
MARIN JUNE 2006
102-105_Galleries.indd 104
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/28/06 1:58:21 PM
Your wedding... Our expertise, experience,
Ted Vasin, “Just You”, acrylic on canvas, 30 x 30 inches
and award winning style.
Please visit us at:
www.bellaimago.com for an appointment: 415 927 4642
o g a m I a l l e B fine artwedding photography
Robert Beck Gallery California Plein Air Paintings • 1900’s to Contemporary
Asian Antiques
M. DeNeale Morgan
Carmel Point
oil on board
Featuring the work of Mary DeNeale Morgan 222 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., San Anselmo, CA 94960
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
102-105_Galleries.indd 105
(415) 456-7898 (415) 706-2174 (415) 456-7314 fax
MARIN JUNE 2006
105
4/28/06 4:34:27 PM
CA LE N DAR
JUNE 2006 June 16 Sizzlin’ Summer Spectacular Perrier Award winner Scott Capurro presents an evening of stand-up humor, along with Joe Klocek, who opens the show. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.9600, 142throckmortontheatre.com
MUSIC Thru June 25 Madama Butterfly Soprano Patricia Racette stars in this classic opera by Puccini. War Memorial Opera House (SF). 415.864.3330, sfopera.com
June 8–11 DjangoFest A four-day festival celebrating the music and spirit of Django Reinhardt, Gypsy jazz musician. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.9600, 142throckmortontheatre.com
Madama Butterfly performed at the War Memorial Opera House
THEATER Thru June 11 Displaced A couple’s hot air balloon ride takes a turn for the surreal when a hurricane carries them from Miami to Havana. Marin Theatre Company (Mill Valley). 415.388.5208, marintheatre.org
Thru June 18 The Price The story of two brothers who reunite to dispose of their late father’s belongings. The Barn Theatre (Ross). 415.456.9555, rossvalleyplayers.org
and betrayal, set in 1920s Chicago. Written by Bertolt Brecht, music by Kurt Weill, and directed by Carey Perloff. Performed by A.C.T. at Geary Theater (SF). 415.749.2228, act-sf.org
June 24–July 17 An Ideal Husband An Oscar Wilde comedy. Sir Robert Chiltern’s world is threatened by the arrival of Mrs. Cheveley, the only one who knows his shameful secret. Presented by the Porchlight Theatre Company at Marin Art and Garden Center (Ross). 415.454.8316, porchlight.net
June 15–25 Verdi’s Requiem A powerful choral masterpiece about confusion, enlightenment, and hope of salvation. Conducted by James Conlon. San Francisco Symphony (SF). 415.864.6000, sfsymphony.org
June 24 3 Divas, 6 Breasts, One Great Night! The Jazz Divas perform soulful vocals and raise funds for Marin Breast Cancer Watch. Larkspur Café Theatre (Larkspur). 415.924.6107, larkspurcafetheatre.com
Thru June 18 Fiddler on the Roof Tevye the Jewish milkman copes with life in a Russian shtetl in this well-known musical. Cushing Memorial Amphitheatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.1100, mountainplay.org
June 8–July 9 Happy End Gangsters and Salvation Army workers collide in this musical tale of love 106
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COMEDY
DANCE
Thursdays thru June
June 2–11
Comedy Slam at Sam’s Start the weekend early with trans-fat-free fried calamari and a cocktail. Debbie Campo of the San Francisco Comedy College hosts an evening of stand-up at Sam’s Cafe (Tiburon). 415.435.4527, sfcomedycollege.com
Stay Together Artistic Director Joe Goode and Michael Tilson Thomas of the San Francisco Symphony collaborate on this experimental dance theater work. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts (SF). 415.978.2787, ybca.org MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/28/06 1:59:10 PM
June 2–18
Art Works Downtown
One Night in Paris An original “dansical” about an innocent boy corrupted by rich and colorful characters in the city of Paris. Performed by the Don’t Quit Your Day Job Dancers. Stage Dor Performance Space (Sausalito). 415.339.1390, stagedor.com
Drawing in Black & White An exhibition of works juried by Barbara Morris, thru June 16. Bay Area Fine Craft opens June 22. 1337 Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.451.8119, artworksdowntown.org
June 3 RoCo Dance Progressive dance and entertainment for the whole family, featuring over 400 RoCo students of all ages and skills. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
June 4 Happy Feet Dance Recital Sit back and enjoy classical ballet, jazz, and tap by Happy Feet dancers and teachers. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
From the Forest Artwork by Carol Andrews, Geri Donovan, Susan Goldsmith, Susan Sasso, and Harold Schwarm, on display June 9–July 30. 3445 Shoreline Hwy, Stinson Beach. 415.868.2308, cchapline.com
Still-life paintings, contemporary tapestries, and objets d’art. 819 Bridgeway, Sausalito. 415.331.5003, edithcaldwell.com
Local Scenes Gabriella Spina Drake’s oil paintings on canvas and sculptural surfaces, thru August. 735 Sir Francis Drake, San Anselmo. 415.256.1112 MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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Abstract paintings by Robin Sawyer explore the relationship between musical sound and emotion; June 3–July 7. 7 Mark Dr, San Rafael. 415.499.7640, spingallery.net
SAN FRANCISCO ArtHaus About Change New paintings by Jan Blythe and About Face A group exhibition; thru June 30. 411 Brannan St, 415.977.0223, arthaus-sf.com Michael Kovner’s Red Chairs in Tel Aviv, 2002 at George Krevsky Gallery
Gallery Route One Works by Geraldine LiaBraaten, Inya Laskowski, Andrei Wilenius, and Simone Simon, thru June 18. 11101 Hwy One, Point Reyes Station. 415.663.1347, galleryrouteone.org
Garzoli Works by Edwin Deakin, Grace Hudson, William Keith, and others. 930 B St, San Rafael. 415.459.4321, garzoligallery.com
Marin Society of Artists Art Abloom
New paintings by Chris Gwaltney, thru June. 154 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.381.8776, rgfinearts.com
Kathleen Dunne, Barbara Lawrence, Stevan Shapona, Paige Peterson, and others. 84 Main St, Tiburon. 415.435.5999, tiburonfineart.com
GALLERIES MARIN
Robert Green Fine Arts
Tiburon Fine Art
June 15–18
Liss Fain Dance Watch the premiere of a new work set entirely to vocal music, performed by this innovative modern dance company in their home season. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts (SF). 415.978.2787, ybca.org
An exhibit of original paintings by Marin artist Christin Coy, thru June 17. 1139 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur. 415.461.0351
Spin Gallery Edith Caldwell Gallery
Love2Dance Spring Recital A variety of dance styles, including hip hop, funk, break, ballet, and jazz, by over 250 students ranging in age from two to 50. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
June 16 & 17
The Painters Place
Claudia Chapline Gallery
June 10
Hell’s Kitchen Dance The legendary Mikhail Baryshnikov and a troupe of handpicked dancers perform a trio of new works, developed at the recently opened Baryshnikov Arts Center. Presented by Cal Performances at Zellerbach Hall (Berkeley). 510.642.9988, calperfs.berkeley.edu
Tabakin; June 6–30. 616 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.388.4331, ohanloncenter.org
Still Waters A group show, thru June 18. Marin Art and Garden Center, Ross. 415.454.9561, marinsocietyofartists.org
O’Hanlon Center for the Arts The 3rd Annual Wabi-Sabi Exhibit A mixedmedia group show juried by artist Tom
Caldwell Snyder Gallery Contemporary Masters Works by Motherwell, Hockney, Rauschenberg, Stella, and Baldessari; on display June 1–30. 341 Sutter St, 415.296.7896, caldwellsnyder.com
Fraenkel Gallery The photography of Idris Khan, thru June 30. 49 Geary St, 415.981.2661, fraenkelgallery.com
Gallery Paule Anglim Sculptural forms constructed in wood and cast in bronze by Deborah Butterfield, thru June 10. 14 Geary St, 415.433.2710, gallerypauleanglim.com
George Krevsky Gallery Paintings from the Studio Landscapes of the United States and Israel by Michael Kovner, thru June 17. 77 Geary St, 415.397.9748, georgekrevskygallery.com MARIN JUNE 2006
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Gregory Lind Gallery Paintings by Marti Cormand, on display thru June 10. 49 Geary St, 415.296.9661, gregorylindgallery.com
Hackett-Freedman Gallery
Marin Museum of the American Indian Ca’Pin Contemporary kachina dolls, headpieces, sculptures, a tool sculpture series, and more by Mooshka, thru August 19. Miwok Park (Novato). 415.897.4064, marinindian.com
The Pursuit of Form New figurative and landscape paintings by Bay Area artist Terry St. John, thru June 24. 250 Sutter St, 415.362.7152, hackettfreedman.com
BAY AREA
lection, thru October 2 (SF). 415.863.3330, legionofhonor.org
Museum of Craft & Folk Art A Quilt for Granny: Four Generations of African-American Quiltmakers An exhibition of quilts by four women of one family whose quiltmaking legacy stretches back two centuries, on display thru July 23 (SF). 415.775.0991, mocfa.org
Asian Art Museum Hang Art and Hang Art Annex Visual Survey Paintings by Catherine Mackey, June 1–July 2 at Hang Art. 556 & 567 Sutter St, 415.434.4264, hangart.com
The Three Gorges Project: Paintings by Liu Xiaodong Figurative works spotlight issues of environmental degradation in an industrializing China; thru July 16 (SF). 415.581.3500, asianart.org
SFMOMA New Work: Tim Gardner, Marcelino Goncalves, Zak Smith Selected works by three artists who share a common interest in combining traditional art-making techniques with unconventional styles (SF). 415.357.4000, sfmoma.org
Jack Hanley Gallery Drawings by Carter, on display June 2–30. 395/389 Valencia St, 415.522.1623, jackhanley.com
FAMILIES/KIDS MARIN
John Pence Gallery June 17
Recent oil paintings by Douglas Flynt and Edward Minoff, thru June 3. New artwork by Jacob Pfeiffer, June 8–July 8. 750 Post St, 415.441.1138, johnpence.com
Explore the Shore Discover Drake’s Beach at low tide, and hunt for shells, feathers, and other surprises (Point Reyes Station). 415.663.1200, ptreyes.org
Meyerovich Gallery Modern European masters including Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Marc Chagall, and Joan Miro. 251 Post St, 415.421.7171, meyerovich.com
Paul Thiebaud Small-format oil paintings by Pam Sheehan, thru June 10. Recent paintings by Tom Birkner on display June 13–August 12. 718 Columbus Ave, 415.434.3055, paulthiebaudgallery.com
Rena Bransten Gallery Artwork by Nicolas Woods, June 1–July 8. 77 Geary St, 415.982.3292, renabranstengallery.com
Kids’ Day at the Landing June 17
COPIA Dishing It Out: Career Waitresses Across the USA Through interviews and photographs, this exhibit explores the subculture of waitresses across the country; on display thru September 11 (Napa). 888.512.6742, copia.org
The Contemporary Jewish Museum The Art of Living: Contemporary Works from the Israel Museum Featuring dynamic photographs and videos produced by Israeli artists, thru July 30 (SF). 415.344.8800, thecjm.org
June 17 Kids’ Day at the Landing Spend a Saturday afternoon enjoying magic shows, carnival games, face painting, and more fun family activities, all to benefit Marin Advocates for Children. Larkspur Landing (Larkspur). 415.507.0179, marinadvocates.org
June 20 Summertime Family Concert Series Pack a picnic, grab a blanket, and enjoy the John Allair Trio as they perform ‘50s-style R&B in a free, outdoor show for the whole family, sponsored by Wells Fargo. Marin Art and Garden Center (Ross). 415.455.5260, maagc.org
June 30–July 4 de Young
MUSEUMS MARIN
Falkirk Cultural Center The California Layerists Artists in this exhibit create large-scale assemblages and collages using modern materials and processes, June 16–August 26 (San Rafael). 415.485.3328, falkirkculturalcenter.org 108
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Personal Perspectives: Aspects of European Photography Images from the 1840s to the present by Edouard-Denis Baldus, Nadar, and others; on display thru July 30 (SF). 415.863.3330, thinker.org/deyoung
Marin County Fair Bring the kids along for fireworks, rides, entertainment, and more at the 61st annual County Fair. Don’t forget the sunscreen. Marin Center Fairgrounds (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marinfair.org
B AY A R E A
Legion of Honor European Tapestries from the Permanent Collection Selected works in wool, silk, and even gold from the Fine Arts Museums’ col-
June 23 Raptor Dinosaurs: Birdlike Predators of the Mesozoic Academy “Dino Docent” Ralph MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/28/06 1:59:35 PM
Miller uses fossil casts and mechanical models to demonstrate what these amazing creatures were like in a presentation for all ages. California Academy of Sciences (SF). 415.321.8000, calacademy.org
EVENTS June 1–11 Healdsburg Jazz Festival Jazz greats including McCoy Tyner and Mark Murphy perform at this annual ten-day music extravaganza in the heart of the Sonoma wine country (Healdsburg). 707.433.4633, healdsburgjazzfestival.com
ADVERTISER
June 3 & 4 Sudoku Tournament Put on your thinking hat and enter North America’s first live Sudoku tournament, a weekend of mindbending puzzles at the Exploratorium (SF). 415.561.0363, exploratorium.edu
June 3 & 4 Marin Home Show & Benefit Jazz Fest From hot tubs to home theaters, to palm treeshaped outdoor heaters, this show features the latest trends and innovations, with a special emphasis on eco-friendly alternatives for home and garden. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.472.3500, marinhomeshow.com
June 4 Silent Auction Come bid on more than 300 items, from overnights at Marsh Cottage to tickets to the San Francisco Zoo, at this benefit for Dance Palace, a nonprofit community center in West Marin (Point Reyes Station). 415.663.1075, dancepalace.org
June 4–11
FINGERHUT GALLERY OF SAUSALITO
Direct from Russia
Sergey
ADVERTISERSmirnov MEET THE ARTIST Thurs, June 29th 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Berkeley Festival & Exhibition Ten mainstage performances featuring music from the Middle Ages through the Baroque, plus Early Music America’s annual conference, symposia, master classes, and more. Presented by Cal Performances at Zellerbach Hall (Berkeley). 510.642.9988, calperfs.berkeley.edu
June 9 & 10 A Celebration of Marin County Pinot Noir Sample Marin’s newest breed of boutique pinots at the county’s oldest winery, Escalle Winery. Advanced tickets required (Larkspur). 415.663.1158, malt.org MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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New Paintings and Prints Smirnov: Homage to Chagall
Plus we feature works by: Picasso, Montesinos, Miro, Vanderveen, Wilkinson, Matisse, Jiang, Picart, Snowden, Rembrandt, & more.
800-700-1842
690 BRIDGEWAY
www.fingerhutart.com/gallery/sausalito.html
E-mail: fgsa1@aol.com
MARIN JUNE 2006
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along San Anselmo Ave (San Anselmo). 800.310.6563, artanddesignfestival.com
R E TA IL T HERA PY Thru June
June 25
Patz & Hall Check out the recently opened tasting salon, serving chardonnays and pinot noirs (Napa). 877.265.6700, patzhall.com
25th Annual Mill Valley Wine & Gourmet Food Tasting Enjoy approximately 70 wineries pouring their newest and best releases, as well as around 30 local food purveyors. Lytton Square (Mill Valley). 415.388.9700, millvalley.org
Thru June Girlfriends Getaway Enjoy a “girls only” vacation—accommodations, massages, and more. The Lodge at Sonoma (Sonoma). 707.935.6600, thelodgeatsonoma.com
June 25 Meet the Tastemakers Usher in the summer months with this unique salute to food and sparkling wine by winemaker Tom Tiburzi. The Restaurant at Domaine Chandon (Yountville). 800.736.2892, chandon.com
Wednesdays thru June Sip ‘n Splurge Sample rare wines like Ramey Chardonnay and Didier Dagueneau paired with gourmet bites, prepared by chef Paul Piscopo at the überhip XYZ bar at the W Hotel (SF). 415.817.7836, xyz-sf.com
Thru June Nicole Grey & Co., Officina ProfumoFarmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella, from Florence, Italy, now available in Marin. (Tiburon). 415.789.0164
Thru June New Store Laurie O’Grady’s Shoe Salon. Stock up on the latest Jeffrey Campbell, Calvin Klein, and Tyler by Richard Tyler styles (San Anselmo). 415.258.0155
June 1–2 Larkspur Luxury Find everything you need for a summer makeover at this two-day shopping extravaganza. Win a Champagne Shopping Spree, provided by Item, Pearl, Collure, Folio, and others. Magnolia Ave (Larkspur).
June 8 Ashley Morgan Trunk Show Enjoy fine chocolates as you take a look at the latest creations from this goldsmith and jewelry designer at Blanc (San Anselmo). 415.485.0104.
June 11 Gala Stock up on Inhabit cashmere, Frye boots, and Jane Hollinger jewelry at the new store opening. Mention Marin Magazine or Retail Therapy to get an extra discount (Larkspur). 415.924.7680
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Marin Arts Festival, see listing for June 17, 18
June 10 & 11 Italian Street Painting Festival Watch hundreds of Madonnari (street painters) transform the streets of San Rafael into a colorful gallery. Fifth Ave and A St (San Rafael). 415.457.4878, youthinarts.org
June 11 Larkspur Flower & Food Festival Join the festivities—including arts and crafts, gourmet food, and live music—along Magnolia Avenue (Larkspur). 415.383.3470
June 17 & 18 Russian River Blues Festival Groove to the best of the blues on the banks of the Russian River. Featured performers include Floyd Dixon, Sista Monica Parker, and Taj Mahal (Guerneville). 925.866.9599, russianriverbluesfest.com
LECTURES/WORKSHOPS June 7 Raising Spirits: Art & Wine in East Asia Docent lecturer Kirsten Ditterich-Shilakes takes the audience back 9,000 years to explore the connection between wine and the Asian Art Museum’s collection. City Hall (San Rafael). Friends of the Library, 415.485.3104
June 8 John Updike An onstage conversation with the Pulitzer Prize winning author of over 40 books. Herbst Theatre (SF). 415.392.4400, cityboxoffice.com
June 28 Essential Oils for Optimal Health Rexanne Diehl discusses Ayurvedic uses of essential oils at Safronya Retreat (San Rafael). 415.259.0433, safronya.com
June 17 & 18 Marin Arts Festival Browse or buy works by more than 200 master artists, on display at Marin Center’s spacious pavilions (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
June 23–25 Monterey Bay Blues Festival Get down to blues and R&B music, performed on three stages over the course of three exciting days. Monterey Fairgrounds (Monterey). 831.394.2652, montereyblues.com
June 24 & 25 San Anselmo Art & Design Festival An annual tradition featuring 200 artists, 12 gourmet food booths, and live entertainment
NATURE WALKS/TALKS June 2 Chickfledging Observe avian parents interacting with their newly hatched young on this guided walk with Rich Stallcup (Point Reyes Station). 415.663.1200, ptreyes.org
June 24 Native Trees and Shrubs Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen as you embark on a four-mile field excursion through woodlands and identify features of our regional habitat. (Point Reyes Station). 415.663.1200, ptreyes.org MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/28/06 1:59:54 PM
“Tony’s incredible understanding of the world, people, and human nature makes him the ultimate life coach. He knows what it takes to make people excel… and to win!” —André Agassi 8-time Grand Slam tennis champion
REPRESE NT I NG T HE F I NE S T I N H U M AN P O T EN T I AL .
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F LAVOR
GOURMET TAPAS Picco brings small plates to Larkspur
A
AS
WHO
possessed more foresight cluster at tables in
a trio of mini burgers topped with caramelized
recently moved to Marin
A
FOOD IE
the rustic-chic, mood-lit room of brick, wood
onions, crimini mushrooms, and Point Reyes
from San Francisco (by way
beams, and vibrant local artwork.
blue cheese. Accompanied by a mini squeeze-
of Napa), I made it my first
The seasonally inspired, ingredient-
bottle of ketchup, the burgers are as cute as they
order of business to find my
driven menu consists solely of small plates.
are tasty—as was every gorgeous dish I sampled,
ideal dining destination: a casual neighbor-
This once-novel idea is now de rigueur in many
with the ex ception of a few oversalted ones.
hood restaurant with a vibe that inspires me
cosmopolitan dining rooms. But Picco chef and
Showcasing only a few ingredients is just
to dress up my jeans, and food quality that
owner Bruce Hill believes this dining style may
what Hill intends when crafting the menu. The
makes driving to the city superfluous. I quickly
still be hard to swallow for Marinites accus-
chef, who gained prominence in San Francisco
discovered that no restaurant north of the
tomed to large portions at small-town prices.
institutions such as Bix , the Waterfront
Golden Gate fits the bill better than Picco.
Appeasement should come, though, when con-
Restaurant, Fog City D iner, Aqua, and Oritalia,
Apparently, I’m not the only one who thinks
sidering the gas, bridge toll, and valet parking
opened Picco to highlight local farms’ best sea-
so. Every Friday at 5 : 30 p.m., there’s a front-
money otherwise needed to indulge in ex qui-
sonal vegetables. Hill succeeds by building
door logjam at Larkspur’s newest restaurant,
site treats like hamachi, pomelo, and avocado
dishes from the bottom up, starting with some
which sits in the space formerly occupied by
skewers, all standing like birthday candles on
great cauliflower, for ex ample, then adding
Rox anne’s. D iners without reservations flank
a thin stainless steel tray. With their delicate
truffle or fish as the finish. Like a totem pole,
the entrance on barstools, while those who
burst of acidity and crunch of salt, these ed-
where the most important figure is found at
ible artworks prove that Marin does has a chef
the base, holding all others up, Hill’s food starts
who understands that restraint, balance, and a
with a great foundation and is topped with just
judicious use of outstanding ingredients equal
enough enhancement to reach the “peak”—the
ex ceptional dining.
translation of the Italian word picco.
Further evidence arrives in gorgeous discs
With small plates that are big on taste,
of ahi tuna tartare—sculpted mounds of diced
competent service, a nice wine list, a cheese
raw fish, Asian pears, shiso, sesame, and soy
selection, and a fabulous finale of mini choco-
on bite-size sticky rice cakes; organic cauli-
late shakes with molten chocolate madeleines,
flower and truffle soup that’s impossibly light
Picco already ranks high among Marin’s top
and creamy at the same time; sauté ed day boat
dining summits.
scallops with white chanterelle mushrooms and a heavenly pillow of celery root flan; and
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Picco, 320 Magnolia Ave., Larkspur, 415.924.0300, restaurantpicco.com
P HOTO: AND REA WYNER
BY ERIKA LENKERT
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
5/1/06 10:33:19 AM
DISH
BY GRACEANN WALDEN
You’ve enjoyed him on television, may-
Marin, with food and cocktails,
One local wag thinks he will do a pro-
be tried his NapaStyle products, but
should open sometime this month…
totype casual restaurant, where the
now celebrity chef Michael Chiarello
Remember when it rained nonstop
Wine Garden once bloomed…On the
has launched his own estate-bottled
earlier this year? On one of those
water in Tiburon, owner-chef Carl
wines. Before his career as a cook-
rare sunny days, I ventured over to
Peschlow of Sweden House (35 Main
book author and TV personality ex-
Town Center Corte Madera for lunch
St.) is now cooking bistro-style dinners
ploded, Chiarello came to prominence
at California Pizza Kitchen. Almost
Thursday and Friday nights. Live gui-
as the chef of Tra Vigne restaurant in
the entire restaurant was filled with
tar music adds the right touch…When
St. Helena. This year, he has produced
young mothers with toddlers. Pizza
you want a bite of something really
five distinct red wines under his label:
obviously cures cabin fever…Chef
sinful, cruise over to Churro Station
Chiarello Family Vineyards, available
Todd Davies’ new business (week-
(26 Medway Rd., #3, off E. Francisco
at the Vintner’s Collective at 1245
ofdinners.com) delivers a week’s worth
Blvd., San Rafael; 415.459.8000),
Main Street in Napa…The owner of
of entrées to San Francisco, Marin,
where they prepare fried churro pas-
the popular Kitchen restaurant (868
and southern Sonoma homes from
tries, served with a cup of authen-
Grant Ave., Novato), Henry Hautau,
his Novato facility; 415.893.1202…
tic Mexican hot chocolate. Delicioso!
with new partner Mark Edwards, is
Uberchef Thomas Keller owns three
GraceAnn Walden lives in Greenbrae
opening another restaurant across the
restaurants in Yountville: the French
with Cosmo, the wonder dog, and leads
street, where once sat the Bit-A-Honey
Laundry, Bouchon, and the just-pur-
culinary tours in San Francisco. Tips?
(877 Grant Ave., Novato). Finnegan’s
chased Wine Garden restaurant.
Email gaw@sbcglobal.net
1/2 HORIZONAL
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MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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4/28/06 1:19:01 PM
adl i b
MARIN ADVERTISERS SPEAK UP
Jim Foley
Richard Hammill
Henry Hautau
California Closets, installed home storage systems, San Rafael
La Sede Bella, European fabrics with English and French country furniture, San Anselmo
Kitchen at 868 Grant, an American Bistro, historic Old Town Novato
In the business of installed home storage systems, California Closets—with 125 franchises world-
Richard Hammill, owner of La Sede Bella, shops
wide—is recognized as the leader. “However,”
England, France, and Italy, then brings back beau-
says Marin franchise owner Jim Foley, “it’s about
tiful fabrics—and country antiques—that help
our relationships with our customers, not just ‘the
people in Marin create homes reflecting their
wood.’ Our customers’ praise is always directed at
dreams. To use Hammill’s expression: “homes that
our staff, and the respect they show each home
have a ‘wow’ factor.”
Town Novato and you will find white tablecloths, an immaculate environment, and an experienced staff. Owner Henry Hautau’s menu offers several entrées under $20, with an attractive wine list.
Describe your dream customer. A couple, or a group of four or five, who walk in
once they’re invited inside.”
Briefly describe your business philosophy.
Step into Kitchen at 868 Grant in historic Old
What makes your work worthwhile? I spent 30-plus years in the corporate world, help-
I think a sense of community is important. Our
ing multibillion-dollar companies get even bigger.
5,000-square-foot showroom is also a gallery and
Meetings, reports, more meetings—that kind of
a venue. In May, for example, it was the site of
thing. No fun! Now, I can’t tell you how much I
four Marin art salons, which showcased dozens
enjoy opening La Sede Bella’s front door, sweep-
of local artists; and every week Marin’s Closet
ing the porch, then helping people one-on-one
Musicians’ Workshop practices there.
make their home dreams come true.
happy—and leave even happier.
What drives you bonkers? The local perception that we’re “always full”; it’s not true. We have openings almost every night.
What makes your work worthwhile? Knowing we’ve made others happy because of what we’ve created, and the experience they have had.
Growing up, what did you want to be?
Describe your dream customer.
An architect. What I do now is related.
Often people come in and gush about a colorful
What makes your work worthwhile?
European fabric; then they buy something that’s beige. They seem to worry more about “home
I worked for five years at California Closets’ cor-
resale” than living the life they really want. Our
porate headquarters—so I know most aspects
dream customer has an open mind—and isn’t a
of the business. Now, owning Marin’s California
“color coward.”
Who’s your business inspiration? My uncle, Pat Finnegan,who owned P.J. Finnegan’s, a popular northern New Jersey bar and restaurant. He’s so much my inspiration that this month we’re opening Finnegan’s Marin, a lively, relaxing IrishAmerican pub and grill. It will be across the street from Kitchen in historic Old Town Novato.
Closets, I work directly with people who do the designing and installing. We have 54 employees
Summarize your competitive edge.
and, frankly, without the right people, a company
Frankly, look at the fabrics. They’re exquisite! And
never achieves its full potential. We make a con-
we have hundreds of them. Plus, designers say
scious choice to “hire right,” as opposed to “hire
they send their clients to us because we’ve got the
right now.”
area’s best values.
Five years from now, what changes will your business experience? Novato’s downtown is coming into its own; it’s a wonderful area and we’ll see increased awareness of the amazing business opportunities here.
California Closets, 610A DuBois St., San Rafael, CA 94901, 415.455.1200, calclosets.com
La Sede Bella, 535 San Anselmo Ave., San Anselmo, CA 94960, 415.453.8200, lasedebella.com
Kitchen, 868 Grant Avenue, historic Old Town Novato, CA 94945, 415.892.6100, kitchen868.com
ADVE RT IS IN G P R OMOT ION
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5/1/06 12:37:45 PM
Flavor, Friends and Fine Authentic Italian Dining 931 Fourth Street, San Rafael, CA 94901 456-2425
1/2 HORIZONAL
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MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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MARIN JUNE 2006
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5/1/06 11:29:55 AM
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BALANCE FERTILITY FAMILY Personalized and compassionate fertility care with an integrated approach.
Anca Sira, M.S., L.ac. Licensed Acupuncturist and Herbalist
1299 Fourth Street, Suite 208 San Rafael, California 94901 Phone 415 456 7808 Fax 661 457 4337 www.ancasira.com ancasira@ancasira.com
Ever see a store that sells nothing but reading glasses? No? That’s because Cheaters is the only one that does, AND, it only exists here. Another Marin First! Are we the smart ones or the dumb ones? Come To CHEATERS And You’ll See!
The Village At Corte Madera 924-6894
Encore Marin’s Finest Consignment Shop
Turn Your Clothes into Cash! Now Accepting Ladies’ Spring Upscale Fashions
2005
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Open Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm Consignments Taken Tues - Sat 10am - 3pm (415) 456-7309 11 Mary Street, San Rafael (next to Peets Coffee)
MARIN JUNE 2006
117
5/1/06 11:30:19 AM
Paintings By Design Participate in Your Own Contemporary Art
We provide customized, hand made art work. Select the style, colors and size you need to bring life to spaces.
(415) 233-2054 studio pbydesign@sbcglobal.net email www.pbydesign.com
Protect Your Investment Cleaning, Sealing and Restoration of Natural Stone 415.924.5005 www.marin-wood.com BONDEDED & INSURED LIC.# 830339
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MARINMAGAZINE.COM
5/1/06 11:33:16 AM
MICONI MARBLE & TILE
Marin County’s One-Stop Showroom for Design, Supply and Installation of Stone Slab, Tile, Custom Cabinetry and Plumbing Fixtures 600 Irwin Street • San Rafael, CA • (415) 454-6844 • www.miconi.com
Step Into Style & Beauty
A Unique Selection of Finest Quality Flooring Residential and Commercial Sales and Installation BR-111TM Exotic Hardwood Flooring - Engineered Amendoim
Carpet • Wood • Cork • Linoleum • Tile • Stone
Serving Marin since 1978 www.marinfloorcompany.com 777 Grand Ave. @ Second Street, San Rafael • 415.453.3310
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5/1/06 11:30:34 AM
In Novato, A Unique enclave of 18 homes. Starting from the mid $1,000,000’s.
ChristophersonHomes.com
M ICROCL I M ATE
CORTE MADERA—SHOPPING CENTRAL Thriving commerce and community spirit shape the town PH OTO: COU RTESY OF VA SO M ED I GOV IC H
BY JIM WOOD
“CORTE MADERA,” SAYS FORMER MAYOR AND TOWN HISTORIAN JANA HAEHL, “is the shopping mecca for all of Marin.” To justify her claim, Haehl (pronounced hail) offers a list: “In Corte Madera Town Center, among others, there’s REI, the Container Store, West Elm, Bryan’s Fine Foods, and Bay Club Marin. Then, in the Village at Corte Madera, there’s Nordstrom, Macy’s, Restoration Hardware, Banana Republic, the Gap—I can’t think of them all.” And her list doesn’t end there. “The town also has several auto dealerships: Jaguar, Volvo, Land Rover, Honda, Acura.” Haehl has a point; that’s a lot of commerce in one centrally located but relatively small—population 9,100, four square miles—town (note: Corte Madera is a town, not a city, and residents adamantly refer to it as such).
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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“Corte Madera’s sales tax revenue is one of the highest per capita in the state of California,” Haehl adds, unsurprisingly. “It’s why we have such beautiful streets and parks.”
newly created lands. Corte Madera’s population jumped from less than 2,000 in the late 1940s to over 10,000 by the early 1970s. Then, in 1982, floods devastated much of Corte Madera, forcing
The town also has a rich background. According to Haehl, who four
the town leaders to regroup and reassess its progress. “Soon after that,
years ago edited a 188-page book on the town’s history, Corte Madera
I moved here,” remarks Vaso Medigovich, “and because the house I
got its start in 1834 when the first Mexican land grant north of San
bought had been under water, I volunteered for the flood control com-
Francisco was awarded to one John Reed. Original documents designate
mittee.” Long story short, with growing sales, tax revenues, developer
Reed’s one-square league of land as “Rancho Corte Madera del Presidio.”
fees, and regionally minded citizens approving property tax increases,
In Spanish, Corte Madera means “cut wood.” Apparently, the name was
Corte Madera has directed over $30 million toward flood control proj-
fitting. “A first business of the rancho,” says Haehl, “was to provide wood
ects during the past 22 years. “And the money has served us well,” says
for construction at the fort known even back then as the Presidio.”
Medigovich, who during that time went from being on the town council
In 1850, when California was granted statehood, a first census
to becoming mayor. He still sits on the flood control committee, now re-
showed only a handful of settlers living in Corte Madera. However, by
ferred to as a board. “It was especially good for us this year,” Medigovich
1860, the town’s population approached 1,000—though a large major-
reports, with relief. “We sat high, dry, and very happy.”
ity were prisoners and guards at Corte Madera Prison, now known as
Spirited homeowner associations, such as Madera Gardens
San Quentin. The North Pacific Coast Railway reached Corte Madera
Improvement Association, Mariner Cove Neighborhood Association,
in 1884; the three-story building that became the Parkside Hotel (still
and the 30-year-old Christmas Tree Hilldwellers Association, play a
standing, overlooking Menke Park in Old Corte Madera Square) was
strong role in maintaining Corte Madera’s community spirit. The town
completed in 1898; and by 1916, the town of Corte Madera was offi-
also boasts a roster of civic organizations rarely found in contempo-
cially incorporated.
rary America: a Corte Madera Women’s Improvement Club (found-
“Amazing as it sounds,” says Haehl, “until after World War II, San
ed in 1907), Lions Club (founded in 1950), Community Foundation,
Francisco Bay marshlands covered the land where now sit Corte Madera
Beautification Committee, Town Band, Heritage and History Group, and
Town Center, the Village, all the car dealerships, and literally thousands
Volunteer Fire Department.
of homes.” As for Highway 101, which was completed in the late 1930s,
“I moved here from Chicago 16 years ago,” says Pat Ravasio, “and it
“it was built on a raised roadbed,” she adds. According to Haehl, the
took two weeks to realize Corte Madera was home, where I was meant
raised highway also served as a dike, which, when combined with drain-
to be.” And home is definitely where the heart is for Ravasio, who co-
age and landfill operations after World War II, led to development on
founded the Beautification Committee, has hung planted-flower bas-
Photo previous page: aerial view of Corte Madera; this page: top, Restoration Hardware in the Village at Corte Madera; middle, civic leaders Pat Ravasio, Vaso Medigovich, and Jana Haehl; right, M Clothing in Old Square Corte Madera; lower: left, popular dining destination Benissimo Ristorante; middle, the oldest building in Corte Madera (built in 1898) that currently houses a hair salon and apartments; right, Stellar Spa—all are situated in Old Square Corte Madera
120-129_MicroClimate.indd 122
5/1/06 4:25:02 PM
130 Pepper Avenue, Larkspur DREAMS DO COME TRUE…Situated in the desirable Palm Hill area, this wonderful four bedroom, three bath home will tug at your heartstrings. Beautiful and charming, this home projects warmth and comfort. The floorplan includes a lovely living room with fireplace, gracious dining room and remodeled kitchen with eat-in area that opens to the family room with fireplace. A romantic master suite and additional three bedrooms complete this special property. Sited on approximately .21 acres (per tax records), the level lawn, children’s play areas, patio and pool are perfect for entertaining family and friends. Location, location, location! Great commute, close to shopping and restaurants, hiking and biking. Staging by Robert Federighi Design.
Offered at $2,150,000
For more information and photographs, please visit: www.MarilynRich.com.
Marilyn Rich
415.464.3741 www.MarilynRich.com
MRich_0606_FNL.indd 1
Whitney Rich
415.464.3729 wrich@pacunion.com
4/27/06 12:19:54 PM
“
Corte Madera’s sales tax revenue is one of the highest per capita in the state of California. It’s why we have such beautiful streets and parks. — JANA HAEHL
”
kets on light-posts throughout town, has worked with the Women’s
days.” The sale price? A cool $2.5 million, according to public reports.
Improvement Club, and was named Citizen of the Year in 2004.
In Ravasio’s estimation, the lowest entry price for Corte Madera is in
“Corte Madera is the best,” she declares. “I’ll sing its praises to anyone
the $600,000 range. “That will buy a nice townhome in Mariner Green,
who’ll listen.” Which is precisely what she has done nearly every day for
close to Paradise Foods.” How about a single-family, detached property?
the past three years—as a realtor with Frank Howard Allen in Greenbrae.
“They start at $800,000,” says Ravasio, “and quickly go to over a million
“Right now Corte Madera is exciting,” she says. “It’s really in demand.”
dollars, depending on size, condition, and location.”
Ravaiso maintains the town’s real estate is appreciating at a rate higher
Location, location, location—the real estate mantra—aptly applies
than the county’s average for two key reasons: “Corte Madera has what
to Corte Madera. Being in the foothills of Mount Tam, the town is sur-
families moving from the city want: good schools and an easy commute,”
rounded by ample open space but shielded from coastal fog. Because
she says. The second factor is basic economics. “Right now demand is
it’s bisected by Highway 101, there’s easy freeway access, helping
high, but the supply is low—people just don’t want to leave.”
residents avoid the usual highway bottlenecks. And because centrally lo-
As evidence, Ravasio points to a recent transaction involving a newer, five-bedroom home in one of the town’s older areas. “There was no view and no swimming pool, but it was on a level lot, in a friendly neighborhood with numerous young families, which is what people want these
cated marshlands were filled back when a development craze prevailed, the town is blessed with ample sales and property tax revenues. Simply put, the town of Corte Madera was—and still is—in the right place at the right time.
1/2 HORIZONAL
Wake-up to This View Everyday
ADVERTISER
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MINUTES TO SAN FRANCISCO
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124
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MARINMAGAZINE.COM
5/1/06 4:26:04 PM
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www.RealEstateInMarin.com
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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4/28/06 3:03:00 PM
Modern Home wth Dramatic Views This intriguing 3BD/2BA modern masterpiece captures unparalleled views of the Pacifc Ocean and Muir Woods from nearly every room! Located less than 10 minutes from downtown Mill Valley, this distinctive residence features impeccable designer finishes, an industrial gourmet kitchen, an open concept living room with a sculptural fireplace centerpiece, floor to ceiling windows,a luxurious master suite, exquisite hardwood floors, view decks and a large level yard. Recently renovated, this home harmoniously blends contemporary architecture, sophisticated living and natural beauty. Inquiries to Robert Young, 415.407.7775 or Matthew Pouliot, 415.265.7020.
Specializing in Selling Your Home PacUnion_Y&P_0606_FNL.indd 4
4/28/06 9:05:23 AM
MARIN’S
PREMIER REAL ESTATE
TEAM Robert D. Young 415.407.7775 RobertYoungRealEstate.com
Matthew Pouliot 415.265.7020 PouliotProperties.com
PacUnion_Y&P_0606_FNL.indd 5
4/28/06 9:05:44 AM
MESSAGE FROM THE CEO McGuire Real Estate started back in 1919, when my grandfather Walter E. McGuire founded the company with a commitment to excellence. I took over the helm in 1980, and I’m proud to say that the same ideals remain today: integrity, knowledge, and exceptional service. McGuire is committed to making the process of buying or selling your home a rewarding experience.
McGuire Real Estate
Over the years, many of our competitors have succumbed to or merged with the major conglomerates. But bigger isn’t necessarily
Spotlight on Mill Valley
better. At McGuire, we recognize the value of maintaining a locally-owned and managed brokerage, providing our clients with distinctive, personalized, and regionally-informed service. As the real estate industry evolves, McGuire remains responsive and willing to meet every new and necessary change. But with these advances, consumers are inundated with so much data that the human element is more important than ever. That’s why our website features licensed analysts, available to chat live with you to answer any questions. We can get all of the data we want, but it’s the interpreting of that data that matters most. It’s the counseling. It’s the intuition. We pride ourselves on being here, being accessible, and being good counselors to our clients. I welcome you to get to know us. I think you’ll find that we offer a truly unique experience in such a crowded marketplace. Although our industry has always been about self-promotion, when a consumer comes to our firm, we deliver on our promises. The difference between being great and being adequate is walking the walk. I speak for all of McGuire Real Estate when I say, we walk the walk. We look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely,
Charles Moore CEO, McGuire Real Estate
U
nlike many, Bill McKeon doesn’t dread Monday mornings. “I actually look forward to working, because of the people there,” says the manager of McGuire’s Mill Valley branch. It’s easy to believe, considering the affable demeanor they’re known for. “Accessibility is very, very easy,” says McKeon. “All agents are welcome to call anyone [in the company] including Charlie.” That’s Charles Moore, to be exact, CEO of McGuire. Since opening in 1997 with only 4 agents, the branch has expanded to include 28, but don’t expect to see the usual cutthroat real estate competitiveness. “You won’t find that at all in our office,” McKeon insists. “If a newer agent asks questions, everyone helps out; it’s really a team effort.” With this familial air, and their profit-sharing Partners Plan, it’s no wonder the employees also socialize outside cubicle walls. “In the office environment, we are always talking about work and that’s only one aspect of a person,” McKeon says. One trait all agents share is an unrivaled expertise of Marin. “It’s critically important,” says McKeon, who lived in Mill Valley himself for 25 years before moving to Greenbrae. Being residents gives agents a valuable insight that many competitors lack. “We have agents who live in Tiburon, in Ross; we have
agents who live in almost all parts of Marin,” McKeon says proudly. Another source of pride is the classic McGuire service. “Our vision is to provide a Ritz-Carlton experience for our clients,” says McKeon. Though known for many high-end property deals, their hard work isn’t proportional to price. “Whether we list a $500,000 condo or a $23 million home, we apply the marketing and support that we do on all of our properties,” says McKeon. Again, cooperation is paramount. “It is a team effort between the agent, my office, and his client to be successful,” he says. With such a warm business style, it’s fitting that their office alongside the 101 is an inviting cottage, reminiscent of an old schoolhouse. In a true spirit of community, the building is decorated for every holiday, most impressively for Christmas. “We actually have someone dressed up as Santa Claus over the entrance that waves to the commuters,” McKeon says. Such festivity makes perfect sense to McKeon. “I interview a lot of new agents when they want to get into real estate, and many say, ‘I’ve always been into homes’, or ‘I’ve been an architect,’” he says. “It has nothing to do with those things—it’s really more of a ‘people’ business.”
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
McGuire_0606_FNL.indd 2
4/28/06 1:09:22 PM
Meet the people who make McGuire a success
Tim Hill
Jean O’Korn
Mill Valley Office
Mill Valley Office
(415) 389-5607 thill@mcguire.com
(415) 389-5644 jokorn@mcguire.com
T
im has been a Top Producer for McGuire Real Estate three times in the last six years (2005, 2003, and
2000). Twenty-six years in Marin County have given Tim an extensive knowledge of schools, neighborhoods, clubs, and organizations. Having raised his two children in Marin, he has an intimate understanding of the infrastructure, climates,
J
ean has been selling real estate in Marin County for over 19 years and has a vast knowledge of the
area. As a McGuire Top Producer, she is committed to providing every client with caring and professional personal service. The rules she works by: attention to detail,
and social dynamics of the area. With this expertise, Tim can
thoughtfulness, excellent negotiation skills, passion for her
help sell your house for top dollar, or find you a new home in
clients’ best interests, and most important of all—living the
this land of exceptional lifestyle.
“Golden Rule.”
Kate McInerny
Lotte Moore & Sarah Kowalczyk
Mill Valley Office
Mill Valley Office
(415) 389-5641 kmcinerny@mcguire.com
(415) 383-8500 lmoore@mcguire.com skowalczyk@mcguire.com
M
S
(neighborhood, schools, affiliations), I meet fascinating
your bridge across the bay. Making a forceful real estate
people, show and sell wonderful properties, and rely on an
team, these two women collectively have over 30 years
exceptional business network. Since 1984, McGuire has
in sales experience. They make things happen—and
been like family to me. From big, heavy MLS books to cell
dream big. This dynamic duo gives double the service,
phones and web-based MLS technology, we have “grown
the energy, and the commitment to the sale or purchase
up” together!
of your home.
y life in Marin and work as a Realtor blend in so many great ways. Through every aspect of my life
elling distinctive properties from San Francisco to West Marin, Lotte Moore and Sarah Kowalczyk are
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D I A LO GUE
Joyce Maynard
BY SAMANTHA SCHOECH
You could live anywhere. Why Marin? I had lived four decades in New Hampshire. Ten years ago, I looked at a map and said, “Where should we go?” I wanted a city, but I also wanted to see the stars at night and be by the sea and the mountains. It all seemed to point to this street. What makes you happy here in Marin? It’s so important for me to be outdoors. I grew up in a small town. I love all that the city has to offer, but I have to see the sky. What gets on your nerves here? I’m very conscious of my being surrounded by enormous privilege and affluence. I have the sense that the meter on my life here is running out. It costs so much just to be here. What’s your personal idea of luxury? Having the time to do the work I want to do, and buying five CDs at a time. What do you value every day? My health, my friends, and that I get to do work that I love. What person has influenced you the most? My children [now 22, 24, and 28]. Completely out of step with the women of my time (who were putting off motherhood), I couldn’t wait to have children. I wanted to be part of a happy family. Now, I have these relatives who are happy and well-adjusted people. My education was parenthood. What’s been the most fulfilling moment in your work? I’ve written quite a few books that I’m proud of, but my most fulfilling
snaking their way up Mount Tam. Her house, which has a
moments come through teaching.
spectacular view of Mill Valley, is perhaps best described
What’s a Marin stereotype that fits?
as a bohemian jumble. The living room is filled with Latin
When I told my friends back east that I was moving to California, they
American art, while books and CDs compete for space
all told me, “You’re going to miss the edge.” There is some truth to that,
alongside threadbare, comfortable furniture. Maynard is the author of more than eight books and countless magazine articles. Her career started when she published a muchtalked-about New York Times Magazine cover story in 1973, “An Eighteen-Year-Old Looks Back on Life.” Since then, she has written novels, books for young adults, and the controversial, best-selling At Home in the World: A Memoir. Her latest book, Internal Combustion:
but I think, as a group, people seem happier here. Which one doesn’t? That people are shallow. I’ve found plenty of depth. What makes your skin crawl? People disrespecting children. What’s your favorite place to unwind? Lake Atitlan, Guatemala. I have a little house on the shores of the deepest lake in the Americas.
The Story of a Marriage and a Murder in the Motor City, will be out
What’s your favorite journey?
this September.
The journey of writing a book.
In addition to writing and teaching, Maynard is known for her
What do you like about yourself?
pie-baking, and she holds classes in her house. When Marin met
My energy and my curiosity. And I make great pies. I like my cooking.
with her in March, she had just returned from her second home
How do you want to be remembered?
in Guatemala, and gleefully presented a pile of frilly aprons she’d
I’ll probably be remembered for my pies more than anything, but I’d
acquired there to distribute at her next class.
love to be remembered as a really great dancer.
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MARIN JUNE 2006
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PHOTO: BA RBA RA RIES
J
oyce Maynard lives on one of those precipitous roads
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4/28/06 2:54:01 PM
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