Marin Magazine June 2012

Marin

SieMatic BeauxArts.02

Thestringentrequirementssetbythe ForestryStewardshipCouncil(FSC) underscoreourdedicationtothe environmentandexemplaryconductat alllevelsofthemanufacturingprocess.

In Marin

21 Currents

Renovated hiking trails, reading list, cooking with Dad, America’s Cup.

26 Q& A Meet San Rafael guitarist, singer and songwriter Danny Click.

28 Conversation A Greenbrae couple’s e orts to help San Quentin inmates help themselves.

Destinations

51 Go The Tahoe challenge: three ways to get your own mountain high.

56 Travel Buzz Places to stay and hear music and tips to make the trip more comfortable.

Out & About

59 Calendar A roundup of what to do in Marin and beyond.

68 Dine An insider’s guide to restaurants and food in the Bay Area.

70 Flavor Dungeness crab pizza you can make at home.

Marin Home

89 Backstory A reunited couple revels in the natural beauty of Mill Valley.

Editorial

EDITORIAL D IR E CTOR

Nikki Wood

EXE CUTIV E EDITOR

Mimi Towle

M ANAGING EDITOR Daniel Jewett

SE NIOR WRIT ER Jim Wood

EDITOR- AT- L ARG E Tim Porter

C OPY EDITOR

Cynthia Rubin

EDITORIAL A SSISTANTS

Logan Link, Sophie Shulman

C ONTRIBUTING W RIT E RS

PJ Bremier, Gregory Greunke, Ginny Horton, Jennie Nunn

C ONTACT editorial@marinmagazine.com

Art

A RT D IR E CTOR Veronica Sooley

P RODUCTION M ANAG ER Alex French ext 111 | production@marinmagazine.com

C ONTRIBUTING P HOTOGRAPH E RS

Mo DeLong, Barbara Ries, Nike Van Der Molen, Richard Wheeler

Administration

C ONTROLL ER Maeve Walsh ext 104 | mwalsh@marinmagazine.com

O FFIC EM ANAG ER Sophie Shulman ext 100 | sshulman@marinmagazine.com

Web

WE B P RODUCTION M ANAG ER Peter Thomas ext 120 | pthomas@marinmagazine.com

Volume 8, Issue 6. Marin Magazine is published in Marin County by Open Sky Media. All rights reserved. Copyright©2012. Reproduction of Marin Magazine content is prohibited without the expressed, written consent of Open Sky Media. 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 $12 per year. phone 415.332.4800, fax 415.332.3048, email editorial@marinmagazine.com, website marinmagazine.com.

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

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World-Class Experiences

Just Down the Road

At Cavallo Point, there are many ways to kick off a great summer – be pampered at the spa and learn new skills in a

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Get fresher, brighter, healthier skin with the new Detox Facial, thanks to antioxidants from organic, seaweed rich products by SeaFlora. Therapeutic and stimulating, the Detox Facial improves skin tone as it balances and brightens dull skin. Spa Reservations: 415-339-4767

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create, taste & explore WH AT’S COOKING IN JUNE

Rated #1 Hotel Culinary School by Gayot.com, the cooking school offers hands-on classes taught by instructors and visiting chefs. June highlights include: Wedding Cake Workshop, Tofu Making with Hodo Soy Beanery and more. Visit cavallopoint.com/cookingschool

THIS MONTH WE bring the focus inside to look at kitchens that are new, as well as classic E ichler homes that, while technically not so new, represent a unique California architectural spirit that has never gone out of style.

First the Eichlers. We go in depth and find out how a man who just liked “things that were new” found himself building the quintessential modern home. Indeed, developer Joseph Eichler left a lasting mark in California using glass, wood and post-and-beam construction.

See examples of these gorgeous structures in our opening feature and read about the people who call them home.

Next the kitchens. Join writer PJ Bremier as she goes behind the scenes of four Marin remodels that have reshaped, renewed and reinvigorated everyone’s favorite room. She uncovers the latest in materials and gadgets that’ll you’ll want to know about before starting your own remodeling project.

But we also know it is June and you don’t want to be cooped up inside all month. To that end, we hope you enjoy our feature on the man who walked nearly every street in M arin. He’ll tell you how he did it and share a few of his favorite paths.

Up front, our I n M arin section features a piece on newly renovated trails in M arin as well as a Q&A with Texas-blues guitar player Danny Click and a conversation with Chris Redlitz and Beverly Parenti, a Greenbrae couple who are hoping to change the lives of S an Quentin inmates one man at a time. We’ll also take you to Tahoe in our Go section and teach you some ride-friendly chair yoga to help you get there feeling limber and refreshed in T ravel Buzz.

It’s looking like a great summer for travel or just sticking around this beautiful county — or both. Either way, we hope you enjoy our coverage of all things Marin.

Marin Magazine Staff Editors

Developer Joseph Eichler left a lasting mark in California using glass, wood and postand-beam construction.

EICHLER HISTORY

When it comes to Eichlers in Marin, Managing Editor Daniel Jewett and his family knew them well. Here you can see, from left to right, Dan and his dog Tam (named after Mount Tamalpais) in the courtyard of their Lucas Valley Eichler in 1974; Dan and his sister Jennifer in their upward-sloping backyard on Idylberry Road; Tam in the hills overlooking the Lucas Valley Eichler neighborhood.

Above, from left: Dan Jewett, Nikki Wood, M imi Towle

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Marin’s June 5 Primary

rules, this person will earn a November ballot spot opposite Hu man — I see it as a contest between hardworking Marin Supervisor Susan Adams and West Marin acclaimed activist/author Norman Solomon; both are Democrats, both are worthy.

IThis means Republicans can vote for Democrats and vice versa.

BY JIM WOOD

It is a new and (hopefully) improved election process.

N 2008 AND 2010 , California voters opted to reconfigure electoral districts according to community concerns, not partisan politics — and a nonpartisan citizens’ commission accomplished that task. As a result, our new U.S. Congressional 2nd District stretches from the Golden Gate clear to the Oregon border and includes not only Marin and coastal Sonoma County, but now also Mendocino, Humboldt, Trinity and Del Norte counties. All told, that’s more than 700,000 citizens.

Another change — again, the result of a statewide vote — is that California’s primaries will now be “open.” This means Republicans can vote for Democrats and vice versa — and the top two vote getters, regardless of their party a liation, will oppose each other in the November final election. Ideally, that frees up candidates to appeal to the political middle — not one party or the other’s extremist fringe — thus minimizing legislative gridlock. That being said, let’s look at the 2nd Congressional District contest being decided on the June 5 ballot.

For the past 20 years, Marin’s representative in Congress has been Lynn Woolsey of Petaluma, a staunch progressive who is retiring. Twelve candidates hope to replace her and I strongly believe Marin’s current state assemblyman, Jared Hu man, is the most qualified. He has been instrumental in the introduction of dozens of pieces of key legislation, including a move to stop San Quentin’s death row expansion.

Hu man’s candidacy has been endorsed by most Marin and Sonoma county elected ocials as well as by U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein. In her endorsement, Feinstein said, “Jared is the kind of principled and e ective leader we need more of in Congress; he has my full support.”

As for whoever is the primary’s second highest vote getter — under new election

Also on the June 5 ballot, voters will choose a lawmaker to succeed Hu man in the state Assembly (even if he isn’t elected to Congress, Hu man will be termed out of the Assembly). Here the district’s boundaries have been modified only slightly and it includes nearly 466,000 people living in Marin and southern Sonoma County. After studying the field of five, I support Democrat Michael Allen. Rivals have labeled Allen a “carpetbagger” because he only recently moved to Marin — but don’t be influenced by name-calling. He is already a successful leader in the Assembly who wanted to better know and understand the needs of the people he hopes to represent. Marin is fortunate to have him.

Allen is the father of five, a veteran labor leader and a registered nurse, and he’s done considerable work for the Sierra Club. Organizations that speak for California’s teachers, Democrats, conservationists and firefighters, law enforcement agencies, and the Sierra Club have all endorsed him. Also backing him are Rep. Lynn Woolsey, state Sen. Mark Leno and Marin County Supervisors Steve Kinsey, Judy Arnold and Kate Sears.

Speaking of Marin’s supervisors, three of them are on the June 5 ballot: Kinsey, Sears and District 2’s Katie Rice. I say all three have proven their capabilities and should be returned to o ce. After su ering through the deaths of two supervisors within one year, our board has stabilized itself and is now a smoothly functioning unit.

Other items on the ballot are Proposition 28 — a tweaking of term limit laws, which haven’t been e ective — and Proposition 29 — adding a $1 tax to the price of a pack of cigarettes. My opinion: Mark yes on both.

These opinions are my point of view. What are yours? Whatever they are, express them on June 5, or before if you vote by mail. For polling place information, call 415.473.6456. Email pov@marinmagazine.com.

Friend us to share RSVP Hot Ticket photos at facebook.com/marinmagazine

[UPCO M IN G EVENT S]

MARIN A RT FE S TIVAL

June 16–17

Lagoon Park, Civic Center Fairgrounds, San Rafael

Celebrated for 16 years as Marin’s lawn party for the arts and considered one of the most beautiful outdoor art festivals in the nation, this event features work by more than 200 artists from across the country, who are eager to discuss the creative process. The festival includes hands-on art projects for children, two full days of live music and dance performances and this year’s Marin Master Artist Kathleen Lipinski.

$10 adults; free for kids 14 and under; free parking

415.388.0151; marinartfestival.com

MARIN/SCAPE SART E XHIBIT AND SALE

HEN

June 30–July 1

Dominican University, 50 Acacia Avenue, San Rafael, Heritage and Alumni House

This is the only annual fine art exhibit and sale that exclusively features the life, landscape and spirit of Marin and allows you to meet the artists. Artwork prices range from $100 to $5,000 (with proceeds going to local service organizations), and a portion of every purchase is tax deductible. Free shuttles are available.

$15 per person includes wine, other beverages and refreshments. Mention Marin Magazine for 2-for-1 admission.

415.526.0409; buckelew.org/marinscapes

Want to see all the images from our RSVP Hot Ticket events? Visit marinmagazine.com/hotticket for the latest.

BART and the Bridge

Good article on BART to Marin (Looking Back, May 2012). I was with Caltrans then in advanced planning and did some background research for them. The bridge district did a study saying the bridge couldn’t take the trainloads. BART did a study saying it could. The di erence was that the bridge district didn’t want BART and used specifications that proved their point. You are also correct that the withdrawal of San Mateo killed the plan to go to Marin.

PHIL RICHARDSON, VIA EMAIL

A Giving Spirit

Regarding Jim Wood’s POV “Does Marin Give Enough?” (March 2012): I am on the board of Aim High, a group Wood accurately described as “a rigorous educational experience for low-income youth.” My focus has been fundraising throughout the Bay Area. Over time, I’ve noted San Franciscans have a greater awareness of their needier neighbors than do residents of Marin. This isn’t because Marin is uncaring or ungenerous. It’s because people in San Francisco routinely pass through neighborhoods like the Mission, the Tenderloin and Hunters Point. By contrast, the communities within Marin that have the greatest need, such as the Canal area and Marin City, are generally “o the beaten path.” That said, the value of Marin Community Foundation’s report “A Portrait of Marin” is to raise awareness that there are pockets of real need within the county.

Aim High operates two campuses in Marin, each requiring $100,000 annually. To succeed and grow, we need a broad donor base. “A Portrait of Marin” is raising an awareness that, in turn, helps keep philanthropic dollars in Marin — where they can improve the lives of our most vulnerable residents. I appreciate Wood’s columns that bring attention to the challenges facing many in Marin and to the e orts of nonprofits addressing these

challenges. On a personal note, if any readers would like to see Aim High in action this summer, please contact me care of Alec Lee.

GLENN A. SHANNON, TIBURON, ALEE@AIMHIG H.OR G

ABig Problem

Marin Magazine is a powerful and widely read publication in the county. When you address an issue as important as pensions (POV, May 2012) you have an obligation to not understate the severity of the problem. Supervisor Adams is correct that $700 million is a misleading number and that it includes $350 million for retiree health care. Nevertheless, that $350 million is an obligation owed to county retirees and cannot be ignored. MCERA Administrator Wickman states correctly that the unfunded liability for pensions, as measured by the county’s actuary, is $371 million. This number, however, does not include $110 million the county borrowed to inject into MCERA. This must be included in any reasonable estimate of what we “owe” for pensions.

The $371 million figure relies on a set of assumptions — demographic, compensation and, especially, investment — all being met. Beyond that, is this figure correct? The debate involves some arcane financial theory but a strong case can be made that the amount is larger, much larger — about $2 billion, according to former assemblyman Joe Nation, now at Stanford. Supervisor Adams correctly states that 10 percent of the budget is being directed to pensions this year. Sadly, by the county’s own forecast, that number will grow to at least 13 percent by 2015–2016, a 30 percent increase. Beyond that no one knows. Pensions are crowding out essential public services. Where will this additional pension spending come from? Roads, public safety, public health? Additional taxes?

Worst of all, from a countywide perspective, these numbers include only those employed by and retired from the county government itself, 2,100 and 2,000 respectively. According to the Marin Economic Forum there are another 10,000 people employed in the public sector in Marin who are not included in these numbers. They

James E. Demmert, Managing Partner

around once

work for cities, towns, schools and special districts, but not the state or federal government. Countywide, we are looking at a minimum of $2 billion. Perhaps $10 billion. That amounts to somewhere between $33,000 and $165,000 per household. It is not my mission in this small space to assign blame for the problem. Nor is it possible to propose solutions. It is my mission to make sure the size and scope of the problem are not downplayed and to call, yet again, for steps to address it.

DAVE BROWN, MILL VALLEY

Regarding Jim Wood’s May POV article on pension reform: Sue Adams is right; intense focus on the problem may well allow Marin to avert a crisis. Your editorial is a great public service in that regard. The astounding 23 percent return in fi scal year 2010–2011 was a big number, but it’s important to remember that Marin’s fi scal year ends June 30, so it was right in line with the market during a great 12-month period. The S&P was up 31 percent and the DFA Global 60/40 Portfolio (probably a good benchmark) was up 22 percent. Public pensions all over the country are hurting. We’ve gone through a 10-year period with virtually no real (inflation-adjusted) cumulative return from the S&P. The last time that happened was 1973–1983. But then it was really good for the next 15 years — a 14.5 percent cumulative average real return. If we had another run like that, this pension problem would vanish from the front pages.

FREDERICK BORDEN, MILL VALLEY

For the Love of James

I love James Dunn (“James Dunn,” May 2012) but you are confusing where he was born. Marin General Hospital started taking patients early in 1952. I doubt he was born at the Bon Air Hotel, which was torn down in about 1920.

Do your research. It could perhaps be at the San Rafael Hospital or maybe Ross General Hospital. K. GONDAK, VIA EMAIL

James Dunn

Off to Cuba

Richard Wheeler’s story and photos (Journey, May 2012) from his recent trip to Cuba had me smiling from start to finish. We spent time in Havana, Viñales, and several other cities at about the same time as Richard, and found the country and people equally fascinating and complex. I would add a few pointers for anyone considering a visit to Cuba. Richard does not come across as a music aficionado, and that’s a shame. Music is a principal feature of Havana and all of Cuba. I can hardly express how rich,

pervasive and diverse the music scene is, with performers and bands almost literally on every street corner, not to mention in private and public clubs. Most of us are familiar with the album and movie Buena Vista Social Club, which highlight just one of the many Cuban musical currents that are alive and thriving there. The other noteworthy (or not worthy) feature of Cuba today is the food, which sadly tends toward the bland and unimaginative — particularly at the many government-operated restaurants. Happily, the privately run paladares provide a better level of cuisine and a more authentic experience than can be found on the tourist circuit.

JONATHAN LIVINGSTON, MILL VALLEY

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Your comments may be edited for clarity and brevity. Send letters to Marin Magazine , One Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965, or email us at letters@marinmagazine . com . Please include the town where you live and a daytime phone number.

ONLINE, WE ASKED YOU

Does anyone know why so many Eichlers have red doors?

“Because Joe Eichler was an odd bird, living in the ’50s, and thought it was cool?”

Aaron Croft

“Ours has an orange door.”

Tammy Vong Wright, San Rafael

“Feng shui.”

San Rafael Pacifics, San Rafael

“Good luck and prosperity.”

Gail Weissman

415-381-1144

www.oska-millvalley.com

“Drama? Contrast?”

Modern Cookie Co., Larkspur

HAVANA AFFAIR

In Marin

CELEBRATING THE PEOPLE, PLACES AND CAUSES OF THIS UNIQUE COUNTY

NEW HIKING TRAILS FOR THE SUMMER

After thousands of volunteer hours, hundreds of pounds of moved earth and many months and phases of restoration, these recovered trails are now open to the public just in time for summer.

SOPH I E SHUL MAN

BOOK S

Reading List

The Final Leap: Suicide on the G olden Gate

B ridge by John Bateson, University of California Press, $29.95 Grim, yes, but also fascinating. T he who, what, when and why of 1,500-or-so suicide leaps from the 75-year-old structure that is the world’s leading suicide spot. M oreover, why do we allow it to continue?

The Beauty of the Real: What Hollywood Can Learn from Contemporary French Actresses by Mick LaSalle, Stanford General Books, $24.95 . The S.F. Chronicle film critic weighs in on how and why performances by French film actresses are more authentic than Hollywood movie stars’. “LaSalle understands how French women are allowed to go deeper,” says Roger Ebert.

Sweet

Cream and Sugar Cones: 90 Recipes for Making Your Own Ice Cream and Frozen Dessert Treats from B i- Rite Creamery by Kris Hoogerhyde, Anne Walker and Dabney Gough, Ten Speed Press, $24.95 . On San Francisco’s 18th Street, there is always a line of people waiting to buy ice cream. This book tells you why — and more. J IM WOO D

Hawk Hill

Sausalito: With one of the most renowned views of San Francisco, the Marin Headlands and the Golden Gate Bridge, Hawk Hill (photo on previous page) has been revamped with new trails, visitor amenities, signs, habitat restoration and completed maintenance work on its historic landmarks. E xplore the iconic spot and keep an eye out for migrating raptors.

680 Trail

San R afael: The new 2.8-mile “680 T rail” connects Loma Alta and Terra Linda Open Space Preserve lands. After years of construction, a wide, multiuse trail runs through the hillside, bridges and decorative rockwork. It also allows access to the top of Loma Alta — one of Marin’s highest points, boasting an impressive 360-degree view of Marin — from both Sleepy Hollow and Terra Linda. Dogs are permitted.

Dias Ridge Trail

M ill Valley : T his new trail, reconstructed to protect the area’s ecosystem, offers

breathtaking coastal views for hikers, bikers and horseback riders. C onnecting State R oute 1 to the Panoramic Highway, the 3.1-mile loop curves through rock gardens and connects to the ridge. S cale Mount Tamalpais, descend to Muir Beach and reward yourself after with sustenance at the Pelican Inn restaurant and pub. Or if you’re feeling ambitious, increase the distance by continuing on the Miwok or the C oastal T rail.

Coastal Trail

M ill Valley: As part of an e ort to restore the ecosystem at the 8.9-square-mile Redwood Creek watershed and improve its sustainability, the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy has repaired approximately 500 linear feet of erosion on the Coastal Trail, which lines the Pacific Ocean west of Muir Woods.

To see maps and discover more about these hikes and others in Marin, go to marin magazine.com/hikes CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

Family Movie Night

Grab a blanket and get ready for family-friendly movies, with boxed dinners available for purchase from El Huarache Loco and Rustic Bakery.

WH ERE: Marin Country M art, Larkspur

WH EN: Wednesdays at 6 p.m.

WHAT’S PLAYING:

June 13, Rio; June 20, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang ; June 27, Dolphin Tale July 11, The Lion King; July 18, Bolt ; July 25, Bee Movie

August 1, The Incredibles ; August 8, Fantastic Mr. Fox ; August 15, Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs ; August 22, Tangled

YOUR NEIGHBOR’S SECRET GARDEN

Garden Conservancy has selected four of Marin’s most breathtaking gardens for public viewing as part of its Open Days program on Saturday, June 16, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. With themes ranging from aquatic scenery to Mediterranean oases, these fertile grounds will inspire you to get creative in your own backyard. garden conservancy.org S.S.

69 Rock Road, Kentfield

313 Reed Boulevard, Mill Valley

38 Morning Sun Avenue, Mill Valley

222 Round Hill Road, Tiburon

Marin Magazine June issue - half pg spread

truer greens. a faster response.

stonetree golf club works. with bank of marin.

9 QUESTIONS FOR

Danny Click

Singer, Songwriter, Guitarist

S AN R AFA EL

Danny Click has been entertaining audiences in Marin and beyond for decades, but it seems that now is the guitarist’s time to shine. Which makes it fitting that Click finds himself and his band, Americana Orchestra, at the top of the country charts with a song titled “I’ve Waited My Turn.” Things changed for the blues-inspired rock and roller about 25 years ago when lyrics in a Tracy Chapman song inspired him to move to Austin, Texas, to pursue his musical dreams. While he travels all over the country and world, you will likely see him and hear him at quite a few upcoming music festivals here in Marin, including the Novato Art and Wine Festival, Fairfax Festival and the Dance Palace Fest in Point Reyes Station. MIMI TOWLE

1

Favorite M arin music venues? Well, we’re really partial to the Sleeping Lady in Fairfax, where we’ve played the most in the last year and a half. It’s definitely our home here in Marin. George’s in San Rafael has a really big and great sound system. And Rancho Nicasio has an amazingly real Texas roadhouse feel. And of course, 142 T hrockmorton Theatre, where we’ll be playing June 30, is a special place for us and has really great acoustics for the Americana Orchestra, but they’re equally good for the Hell Yeahs electric band as well.

2

What’s your dream day in M arin? Sleep late! Breakfast at one of many fave places like Theresa & Johnny’s in San Rafael. I love driving through the hills and then going thrift-store shopping and looking for old guitars and such. A nice dinner like at Napoli on Fourth Street in San Rafael — they have the best cannoli — and then play a sold-out show.

3 What local show (besides yours) do you think people should not miss? Wow, there’s so much. Mystery Dance is great and anything that Bonnie Hayes is in the middle of. Also any of the numerous projects that Jonathan Korty is involved in.

4 Do you have any music heroes here in Marin whom you have met or played with? Carlos Santana and his wife, Cindy Blackman, came out of the audience and sat in with me at the Sleeping Lady a few months ago. That was huge. A true honor. What a legend and a really genuine, kind person.

5 A ny advice for young musicians? Practice. Work on your timing. Know everything about your instrument: how it works, how to fix it, what it’s capable of. Learn how to learn without someone teaching you. And finally, play every single day as much as you can. Never give up.

6

7

Favorite post-performance place to eat in M arin? Sol Food takeout.

Favorite bar food in M arin? The Sleeping Lady makes me a special pepperoni and spicy-sausage pizza that’s amazing. And Rancho Nicasio, pretty much everything on the menu, but I really love the rancho burger.

8

What do you like doing when you are not playing music? I’m a big guitar head, so I buy, sell, trade and work on guitars and teach guitar as well. I also love old, and all, movies and I love spending time with my family. But we all only have so much time on this earth so whatever it is that’s driving me when I wake up in the morning is what usually wins out for that day. As I’ve said before, life is short; whatever it is, do it now.

9 Have you met Tracy Chapman and told her that her lyrics changed your life? No, but one of these days I ’m gonna buy her lunch. m

Beverly Parenti and Chris Redlitz

A Greenbrae couple’s efforts to help San Quentin inmates help themselves.

by Jim oo • Photos by t im Porter

UNTIL A YEAR ago, neither Chris Redlitz nor Beverly Parenti had set foot inside a penitentiary.

Now they find themselves regularly conducting meetings, involving dozens of convicts, including some lifers, within the walls of San Quentin State Prison. The goal is to not only help the men eventually find employment as paid interns in the Silicon Valley, but also create a national model for prisoner reform.

The married couple are both type A personalities who share their Greenbrae home — which is barely a mile from the 160-year-old prison that houses nearly 4,000 inmates — with the family cat and two chickens. Before they merged their talents he was involved in the development of Reebok athletic shoes, and she was a key figure in one of the first online secure payment systems, a precursor to PayPal.

The couple met in the late 1990s when both were involved with AdAuction, an online media start-up based in San Francisco. More than a dozen years later, the two maintain high profiles in the competitive Bay A rea digital media market. They have a slew of Bay Area–based tech start-ups under their belt and are cofounders and directors of KickLabs, which helps young entrepreneurs build new businesses. They also work with Transmedia Capital, a multimillion-dollar San Francisco firm that invests in and then mentors earlystage digital media companies.

But it’s another mentoring project that regularly takes Redlitz and Parenti inside San Quentin. They are the founders of The Last Mile, an organization that trains specially chosen inmates in the basics of business, fundamental computer skills (the men are prohibited from having online access) and the ins and outs of entrepreneurship. The goal is to help the men eventually find employment as paid interns in the Silicon Valley.

With an extremely busy “outside” schedule, what motivated you to volunteer inside San Quentin? Chris Redlitz: For a long time, we’ve wanted to do something to utilize our resources on a one-to-one basis that would assist individuals, say underprivileged children or a single mom, who really wanted to improve themselves and their place in life. Then in late 2010, through an article in Marin Magazine, I met Kathleen Jackson, who teaches inside San Quentin. We talked about the men she works with and she mentioned it costs $50,000 a year to keep men incarcerated and that the recidivism rate was almost 70 percent. Looking at it like a professional investor would, this was a poor return for the state’s taxpayers. So, while we had driven by San Quentin a thousand times, I’d never thought about what goes on inside the place. And meeting Kathleen made me think this was what we were looking for.

Now Kathleen, along with her other involvements, works with The Last Mile. Beverly Parenti: Chris came back from his meeting really supercharged. However, I was skepti-

The Last Mile is the potential bridge between incarceration and becoming a contributing member of society.

cal. I thought, why would I want to work with men who were incarcerated ? Chris asked that I keep an open mind. The turning point was when we first went inside San Quentin for a graduation ceremony of a class called TRUST, meaning Teaching Responsibility Utilizing Sociological Techniques. Afterward, we had a chance to talk with a few of the men and I was completely blown away by how intelligent

they were, how remorseful they were and how forthright they were about themselves and their desire to give back to the community and do good. And I realized that by helping each one of them I’d be not only helping them as individuals, but helping them help many other individuals over a long period of time. It took a while to get things organized and approved, but since last September, except during “lockdowns,” meaning the men must remain in their cells, we’ve taught a class on entrepreneurship every Tuesday and Thursday night.

Explain the curriculum? BP: Our goal, of course, is to train inmates so that eventually, once they are released, they can find a paid internship position in the Bay Area technology sector. Our first-ever class consisted of five men who were selected because they demonstrated adequate communication skills, graduated from TRUST, were enrolled in or graduated from the Prison University Project and were recommended by a San Quentin administrator. Classes focus on principles of business and personal growth, practical technology, the digital marketplace and how to build a business. There are textbooks and homework assignments and we have guest speakers such as the tech author Guy Kawasaki, social media guru Brian Solis and Dave Dahl, a former Oregon felon who now runs a successful bakery producing Dave’s Killer Breads, carried in Costco, Safeway and Whole Foods.

Looking west toward the prison from Point San Quentin Village.

Connect WITH US

in person

Marin Home and Garden Expo

See products and concepts from more than 200 informative exhibitors and enjoy music and lectures, including a special presentation on Eichler homes, at the Marin Home and Garden Expo June 2–3 in San Rafael. Stop by the Marin Magazine booth at the Marin Fairgrounds and Exhibit Hall to have your photo taken and pick up our latest issue. marinhomeshow.com

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Win a Trip to the Whaler on Kaanapali Beach

Enter our Marin Magazine sweepstakes this month for a chance to win a four-night stay in a luxurious ocean-view studio at the newly refreshed Whaler on Kaanapali Beach. This oneof-a-kind hotel is situated on Maui’s most famous stretch of sand. marinmagazine.com/whaler

Readers’ Choice

The editors of Marin Magazine want your help selecting top spots for our annual Hot 101 Editors’ Choice issue. We’re featuring 16 categories ranging from art to cocktails to pizza and would love to know your preferred picks. It’s your chance to give your favorite Marin places a nod for being the best. So visit the link below, cast your vote, and look for the winners to be announced in the August 2012 issue. marinmagazine.com/ readerschoice

Why the name The Last Mile? CR: We chose The Last Mile as a name because these men have experienced a long journey where they’ve taken the necessary steps to improve themselves in all aspects of their lives. The Last Mile is the potential bridge between incarceration and becoming a contributing member of society. When starting the concept, we had three concerns: How will the program resonate within the prison? How will the community — and that includes the business community — react to the concept? In addition, can we really get businesses to hire these men? So far, all three concerns have received nothing but positive responses. Inmates are applying for the course; the tech community is really interested and supportive of what we are doing; and we’re forming a consortium of companies whose leaders say they’d definitely be interested in hiring the men once they’re released. We are in this for as long as we can walk through the gates of San Quentin State Prison. We plan to

The goal is to help the men eventually find employment as paid interns in the Silicon Valley.

This page: Security lights and guard towers on the prison’s south side. Opposite page: The Last M ile group.

have 10 men in our next class and from there we’re thinking big, as we always do. We can see this program being replicated in other California prisons and, eventually, we hope to see it done on a nationwide basis.

To date, from a personal standpoint, have your efforts been rewarding? BP: We started The Last Mile classes in September of last year. Then in November, my father passed away suddenly and I could not attend several weeks of classes. Of course, Chris told the men why I was gone. When I came back, the guys went around the room telling me how sorry they were and that they hoped I was feeling okay. It was very emotional. When they were through, I told them how I appreciated their thoughts, considering they did not know my dad and weren’t a member of my family. Then J.C., a class member who writes beautiful poetry, softly said, ‘Please understand, over the past few months you have had a great impact on our lives — you are our family.’ If that doesn’t a ect you, I don’t think anything will.

How can people follow The Last M ile’s progress? C R: Our website, thelastmilesq.com, explains the program, talks about upcoming events and profiles the students. We also have a Twitter page @thelastmilesq where the students post their thoughts and comments. They do this through volunteers because, although they will soon have laptops, they don’t have access to any social media. Currently, our Twitter page has 1,000 followers. In addition, if you go to quora.com you can read men’s answers to questions describing their thoughts about life — and life within San Quentin State Prison. m

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ENCHANTING EICHLERS

THESE TRULY MODERN HOMES ARE THE PERFECT FIT FOR MARIN.

by b ir mPbe •

P orter

Photos by t im

HERE’S A COMPARI -

SON you don’t see every day: Thomas Jefferson and Joseph Eichler.

A fter all, one was a nation’s founder and self-taught architect who embraced neoclassical design, while the other was a tract home developer who turned post-and-beam residential construction into a classic style. But the two have more in common than you’d think, says Bill Hansell, a Bay A rea architect who was educated at the Je erson-designed University of Virginia and has renovated five Eichler homes in Marin County, including his own.

“Je erson had both a practical approach and an interest in the idea that design be simultaneously rooted in use and contemporary meaning,” says Hansell. “ S imilarly, Eichler and his architects sought to be practical — they were building low-cost houses meant for everyday people — but also reflective of contemporary society and, specifically, C alifornia living.” A nd while Je erson had his own architectural playground of sorts in and around Charlottesville, Va., Eichler had the San Francisco Bay A rea.

Today, M arin County boasts the largest concentration of Eichler homes in all of California — but Eichler’s path to Marin was not a direct one. In his early 40s, just as a full-time stint working as chief financial o cer in his wife’s family’s butter-and-egg business was winding down, Eichler abruptly moved his family of four from their small home in San Mateo to an even smaller rental in neighboring Hillsborough. A mix of aesthetic enchantment and a love of the new seems to have drawn Eichler to the house, which had been designed in the modernist style by none other than Frank Lloyd Wright. It both captured Eichler’s imagination and foretold his future.

The family’s short stay in the rental drew to a close in 1945 — the same year E ichler began a second career as a

developer, at first building and selling unremarkable tract homes in Sunnyvale. By 1949, Eichler had recruited Frank Lloyd Wright disciple Robert A nshen as an architect, and through their collaboration, the first true “Eichlers” — priced just below $10,000 — came into being.

“A lot of people have asked — and I’ve even asked myself — where did this come from?” says Joseph Eichler’s son Ned, a Tiburon resident who worked for the Eichler Homes company in a number of di erent roles over the years, ultimately overseeing sales. “There had been no obvious evidence in his life of this interest in modern architecture, except that he kind of liked everything that was new — the latest electric razor, the latest car.” Ned Eichler notes that even his father didn’t initially make the connection between his success in the real estate business and his affinity for forwardthinking design. Joseph E ichler’s working relationship with Robert A nshen, however, did o er a clue. The young architect had been working on a home for the Eichler family in the years leading up to their professional collaboration, and it was A nshen’s uncharitable appraisal of Eichler’s first Sunnyvale tract — his exact words, says Ned, were “Joe, how can a man of your taste build such crap?” — that finally set Eichler in the direction of his true calling.

Opening spread: The courtyard of the Rudnick-Fingersh home in Lucas Valley, renovated by Bill Hansell. This page, clockwise from top: The Rudnick-Fingersh open kitchen and dining area; modern artwork; sitting area with skylight; Hansell and client Julie Fingersh.

In the early ’50s, Eichler Homes expanded to Palo Alto, San Mateo, Walnut Creek, Sacramento and San Rafael. The first Marin Eichlers were in Terra Linda North, in what remains the largest Eichler development in the county. Subdivisions soon followed in Terra Linda South and Marinwood, both in the late 1950s, and Upper Lucas Valley — which Ned Eichler still regards as the most picturesque of all Eichler developments — in the mid-’60s. There are also Eichlers in the Strawberry and Sleepy Hollow neighborhoods of Mill Valley and San Anselmo, respectively — bringing today’s grand total of Marin Eichlers to more than 1,500. While these homes represent a wide range of Eichler floor plans, they all share the plain facades, floorto-ceiling windows, open common spaces, radiant concrete floors, and post-and-beam, single-story design that make the style so recognizable.

“Single-story living, the connection to the outside — those things really jelled between what Eichler was doing and where he was doing it, and the architectural ideas that inspired him,” says Hansell. “The influence of Frank Lloyd Wright on modernism was about connecting back to nature and having houses reflect a way of living where the outside and inside were integrated. Naturally, the best place for that is in a temperate climate.”

THE ‘LOVE LY LIFESTYLE’

The story of Eichlers in Marin and the story of Catherine Munson, founder and CEO of LVPMarin Realtors, are so closely linked that it’s hard to tell where one ends and the other begins. Munson arrived in Marin County in the 1950s with her first husband, Bill Munson, and quickly found herself busy with three young daughters, born between ’54 and ’58. The family briefly lived in Strawberry before moving first to an Eichler in Terra Linda and later to the Upper Lucas Valley A-frame Munson still occupies today. Munson fell head over heels for the Eichler aesthetic — an enthusiasm that landed her a job as “hostess” in Eichler’s Terra Linda sales office. In her recollection, the position involved extolling the virtues of Eichler homes to prospective buyers and entertaining their children during tours — but Munson was destined for bigger things. In 1958 she earned her real estate license and began selling the homes, first in Terra Linda and Marinwood, and later in Upper Lucas Valley. By 1967, rising costs of building materials and imitative competitors, among other factors, had driven the Eichler Homes business into bankruptcy. Suddenly finding herself without an employer, Munson struck out on her own and founded Lucas Valley Properties (later changing the name to LVPMarin Realtors).

While Munson was hitting her stride as an Eichler evangelist, she was also thriving as an Eichler inhabitant. “The light that came in through the glass walls was literally transforming,” she recalls of those early years in her home. “You didn’t

have to look out a window to the exterior of your property. The outside of the house was part of the house.” Munson acknowledges that there were plenty of Eichler naysayers, objecting to everything from the look of the beam ceilings to the abundance of glass, which they wrongly assumed made the houses di cult to heat. “What they didn’t understand,” she says, “was the personal joy that one would come to experience living in an Eichler — the lovely lifestyle.”

Middle-class families like the Munsons were the typical Eichler homeowners during the company’s heyday in the mid- and late ’50s and early ’60s. Some had an eye for design and appreciated the Eichler aesthetic; others were simply happy to find an attractive, a ordable home in a comfortable climate. The family-friendly aspect, however, was a universal selling point.

Opposite page: Catherine M unson’s Upper Lucas Valley Eichler features lots of light and room for a giraffe sculpture. This page above: M unson in her home. Below: A look at the patio, pool and grounds.

“They were wonderful houses to raise children in then, and they’re wonderful now in exactly the same ways,” says Munson. “If you think about it, the Eichler home is a lifestyle house, but it’s perfect for a young family with a baby or babies, because kids play on the floor all the time, and they love that warm floor.” In addition to the floors, says Munson, the lack of stairs, sense of openness and ease of walking outdoors all enhance the experience of living in an Eichler with children.

EICHLERS PAST AND PRESE NT

That family-friendly quality has certainly been a boon for furniture designer Alice Tacheny and her husband, clinical research consultant Michael Lynn. The couple and their young sons, ages 3 and 5, have lived in a Terra Linda North Eichler for the past two years. Unlike Bill Hansell, who stumbled upon a Lucas Valley Eichler when his Marinbased house hunt led him northward in pursuit of better prices and weather, Tacheny and Lynn were focused on buying an Eichler almost from the start.

“About 10 years ago we were living in Santa Rosa, contemplating buying a house,” explains Tacheny. “I had read a little piece in Dwell magazine about a couple who had purchased an Eichler. The house was in original condition, and everything they loved about the place — the windows, the design, the openness — sounded wonderful. I was hooked.”

Tacheny and Lynn relocated from California to Minnesota in 2002, but when they decided to move back west several years later, Eichlers were on the agenda. Working with Renee Adelmann, founder and owner of Marin Modern Real Estate, the couple came to Marin for a long weekend to tour both Eichlers and non-Eichlers. Although they didn’t find their home that weekend, Adelmann called a few days later with the news that an E-11 model Eichler, with a floor plan featuring four bedrooms, two baths and an entry leading directly into an atrium, would soon be on the market. With their limited budget, Tacheny and Lynn couldn’t fly out again to see it, so Adelmann led them through detailed video tours.

“We decided to go for it,” says Tacheny. “It was crazy to make a decision to buy a house without ever having set foot in it, but because we had been through that model before, we felt like we knew the layout well enough. Lucky for us everything worked out, and we love the house!”

The couple have made some minor improvements since moving in, including removing carpet and floor tile, painting

and putting up some modernist-motif wallpaper in the dining room to create an accent wall. “We take an eclectic approach,” says Lynn. “We like to maintain the integrity of the house and floor plan, but we like the updated look of today’s modern design.” He notes their use of pieces such as a mid-century Danish teak credenza and furnishings from Tacheny’s own line, Alice Tacheny Design. “Much of today’s furniture and home design is reflective of this mid-century time period,” Lynn notes, “which makes it quite easy to furnish.”

Given their e orts to embrace the intended style of their Eichler and its original elements, Tacheny and Lynn would likely be considered ideal homeowners by the many Eichler acolytes devoted to the mission of preserving these homes. And there are many. Blogs like Eichlerific (eichlerific.com), EichlerEichler (eichlereichler.blogspot.com), and Eichler Bug (eichlerbug.blogspot.com) chronicle preservation efforts, while the San Francisco–based Eichler Network works to “support the lifestyle” through publications (EichlerNetwork.com and CA-Modern magazine), a lively online forum, and a specialized home-maintenance referral service and directory.

To an Eichler purist, there are no dirtier words than “second story addition” — an ordinance now prevents this type of construction in San Rafael — and no greater sin than putting a roof on the atrium. But between those extreme changes and the often impractical choice of leaving the homes untouched lies a wide range of renovation options and what can feel like a minefield of judgment calls.

Bill Hansell recalls that when he first moved into his Eichler, his initial instinct was to make restorative changes only — such as updating worn finishes and various hardscape elements. “I appreciated the architecture as it was,” Hansell says. “It took me a few years to realize that certain things have changed about how we live now. You can renovate these houses and keep the same spirit but not be too literalist about it — which would go against the very idea of modernism anyway. So that’s what my work has been about, and that’s what my own house is about.” The trick, then, for homeowners like Tacheny and Lynn and architects like Hansell, is to walk a careful line between adherence to original plans and upgrades that adapt the houses to a more modern way of life.

Taking inspiration from the past while moving steadily forward? Surely Eichler — and Je erson — would approve. m

M ARIN HOME AND GARDEN E XPO On the heels of April’s Dwell+Marin Magazine Home Tour, which included several Marin County Eichlers, comes this month’s Marin Home and Garden E xpo. Marin Magazine is a sponsor of the two-day event, which takes place June 2–3 at the M arin Civic Center and features an Eichler Showcase, including historical information on Eichlers, expert advice on renovating them, and before-and-after examples from Bill Hansell’s portfolio. Hansell and Catherine Munson will copresent a number of talks about Eichler homes on Sunday, June 3. For more information, visit marinhomeshow.com.

TO AN EICHLER PURIST, THERE ARE NO DIRTIER WORDS THAN ‘SECONDSTORY ADDITION’ AND NO GREATER SIN THAN PUTTING A ROOF ON THE ATRIUM.

Clockwise from top: The dining room in Alice Tacheny and M ichael Lynn’s Terra Linda North Eichler; a fireplace next to a vertical window; lots of light in the hallway; Tacheny and Lynn.

Kitchen

Four Marin remodels breathe new life into everyone’s favorite room.

BY PJ B REMIER

2.0

The Clever Kitchen

REBECCA VE R HOEFF OF NOVATO had a clear idea of what she was looking for when she contacted John “JZ” Zinn of Novato Kitchens and B aths to help her create a 15-by-20-foot kitchen for her family of five.

“I knew what I wanted, but I needed someone to take my chicken-scratch drawings and make them to scale,” she says. “JZ helped me with this, making the many changes needed as my design took shape on paper.”

Most important to Verhoe was having a space where family and friends could gather to enjoy a meal or a snack together. “I can have three people working in the kitchen without cramping each other and we can feed 10 people easily in the kitchen between the island and the eat-in nook.” T he kitchen island, with plenty of built-in storage space, gives her three children the room to “spread out their homework or projects and still allow us to make dinner and interact as a family,” she says.

C lever planning is key for orchestrating such convenience, says Zinn. “We went over that kitchen redesign for a couple of months, using 20-20 Technologies 3-D kitchen software — virtually moving appliances and cabinets around until there were enough ‘landing spots,’ or counter space.”

B y integrating or concealing the kitchen’s many appliances, including an oversize 42-inch Kitchen A id refrigerator with bottom slide freezer, a G E Monogram warming drawer, a G E Monogram trash compactor, and a B osch dishwasher, and by grouping the refrigerator and the bulkiest cabinets on far walls, Zinn achieved an overall look that’s streamlined rather than choppy.

Verhoeff’s kitchen features two sink areas for easy cleanup, simple-to-maintain soapstone countertops and a built-in Miele co eemaker. “I love it,” she says. “Within minutes, I can have my co ee and it tastes as good as (at) any professional co eehouse.”

T he plumbing and tile, as well as the small Jaclo garbage disposal air-operated button, were sourced from CT W Designs in Novato. “It’s the best place in Marin, and Craig A nderson (CT W’s manager) convinced me that the air switch was the way to go,” she says. “You don’t have to break up your woodwork or backsplash tile with another ugly switch.”

Above: B eaded pendant lamps dress up the look of the kitchen island. Opposite page, lower left: An heirloom copper cooking oilcan. Opposite page, lower right: Perimeter cabinetry houses the concealed trash compactor and dishwasher; integrated warming drawers are hidden under the integrated refrigerator; a built-in coffeemaker is suspended over the wine cooler on the right wall.

The Entertaining Kitchen

Perfect for parties, the perimeter cabinetry includes double pullout trash bins and Sub-Zero refrigerator drawers; the marble-topped island houses one of three ovens.

TAKE A SPACIOUS HOME with great water views, add a couple who like to entertain, and a wellthought-out kitchen for e ortless party hosting becomes essential.

Which is why SieMatic San Francisco design consultant Brian A llen came up with an open-plan scheme for this Belvedere kitchen.

Three ovens — a 36-inch Gaggenau and two other ovens with one 48-inch La Cornue range — accommodate the cooking and baking for large parties, and one full-size M iele dishwasher, along with two Fisher & Paykel dishwasher drawers, can handle the cleanup.

Storing all the party food is easy: A full-size Gaggenau refrigerator is integrated into an armoirelike cabinet that also houses — and hides from view — a Sub-Zero wine cooler for champagne and white wines, along with overhead storage racks for reds.

The large island counter is topped with a slab of Calacatta Gold marble, ideal for prepping party dishes or staging a bu et. Two refrigerator drawers near the pass-through window keep beverages and snacks handy for guests lingering around the outdoor fireplace. The extra conveniences for the hosts are inside the cabinetry: One drawer conceals a three-tiered interior, lined with antitarnish cloth, for storing fine silver; another drawer has fitted ceramic jars for co ee and tea; and still another contains sized-to-fit plastic bins for flour and sugar. Two drawers hold pots and pans on either side of the range; the cookware is held secure inside with built-in rubber grip-deck strips. Oils and spices are held secure within three shelves in a special pull-out rack built into the island.

“E very cabinet in this kitchen is accessorized to maximize the use of storage space and keep the overall design open and spacious,” Allen says.

The Eco-Conscious Kitchen

WHAT MAKES A GREAT eco-conscious kitchen? A ccording to G eoffrey Butler, who just completed a M ill Valley kitchen in a home that has already qualified for L EE D Platinum status, sustainability is key.

“The most important piece of all is that almost all the materials are sustainable or manufactured and installed by local vendors,” says the Sausalito-based architect. “In terms of sustainable building, when you use products made or manufactured within 500 miles, the transportation impact is reduced.”

A nother important factor, he says, is energy conservation and resource preservation through appliances like the E nergy Star Sub-Zero refrigerator and M iele dishwasher he chose for the M ill Valley project. A lthough range tops aren’t rated for sustainability, gas ranges like the one he installed here are more e cient than electric ranges.

Butler chose concrete countertops made of recycled glass from Bohemian Stoneworks in Sebastopol for the island; sanded stainless-steel countertops for either side of the range from CW Iron in Cotati; and backsplash glass tile from Marin Designworks Glass Tile in Rohnert Park.

Natural light is plentiful in the space, but when extra lighting is needed, there’s a choice of dimmable Bruck L E D (light-emitting diode) or dimmable fluorescent lighting from Architectural Lighting Works in Hayward, both of which were installed.

Bamboo, a renewable material that regenerates quickly, was used for the floor and sourced from Smith & Fong Plyboo of San Francisco. T he end grain cut gives it additional durability, and its no-added-formaldehyde status and low-VOC finish mean improved indoor air quality. Other air-quality-promoting factors include Benjamin Moore no-VOC paint; a whole-house vacuum cleaning system by Santa Rosa’s Redwood Vacuum; and a lowVOC finish of the cabinetry, manufactured by J R’s Woodworks in Santa Rosa using Echo Wood, a product made from reconstituted pulp formed in a Douglas fir pattern. “It looks so good, I think we’ll use it for other projects,” Butler says.

What you don’t see in this kitchen is just as significant as what you do. R adiant-heated floors and a remote-button on-demand hot water system save energy and money, and an iPadcompatible resource monitor by Serious Energy’s Agilewaves tracks energy and water usage.

Below: Brunk pendant lighting illuminates the concrete island made of recycled glass. Bottom: An articulated Kohler pot filler is surrounded by a glass-tile backsplash.

The Cook’s Kitchen

SERIOUS HOME CHEFS WANT generous work and storage space, top-grade equipment and a smart layout with good tra c flow. And that’s exactly what Sandra Bird Designs in Larkspur created for a Ross client who has a special passion for making pies.

“She wanted a fast and easy main prep area,” designer Sandra Bird recalls. “Everything is within a few steps of the range and barstools are across from the range, keeping friends close but out of the cook’s way.”

T he 48-inch Wolf range top has separate burners so that two cooks can work side by side comfortably and a griddle in the middle can be used to turn out pancakes in the morning and later function as a grill to make hearty lunches and dinners.

T win islands, one topped with aged maple and the other with a honed natural limestone, create two workstations. T he islands are packed with goodies such as double 30-inch Wolf ovens, a pair of Sub-Zero refrigerators (one with glass doors and a second, under-counter one), a pair of Sub-Zero freezer drawers, three sinks (one in the main cooking triangle, another in the cleanup triangle and one in the bar area), a full-size M iele dishwasher and two F isher & Paykel dishwasher drawers, a wine cooler and an ice maker.

A t the end of the main triangle, a recessed appliance area holds frequently used equipment; to the left of the prep sink are a pull-out breadboard and hidden knife storage, with recycle bins underneath.

Fine china is stored on both sides of the cleanup sink, and prepared foods are visible and easily accessible in the walk-in pantry, via doors designed to resemble antique screen doors. Even more items can be displayed on the shelves of the family’s heirloom hutch.

For the client’s pie-baking, Bird created a separate pastry center between the main refrigerator and the ovens, with a C arrara marble surface to work crusts, a 30-inch Wolf warming drawer for raising dough, and (per the client’s request) double casement windows with ledges wide enough to hold cooling pies. m

Opposite page: Fine copper mesh adds vintage sheen to a custom pantry door. Above: Pressed ceiling tin with a tobaccocolored stain is used as a backsplash throughout the kitchen. Left: One of two islands, this central work space has a prep sink and plenty of storage.

The Man Who Walked MARIN

As with many grand adventures, a San Rafael man discovers the journey is the real reward.

WHEN JOHN G. Horton moved his family from the Central California desert valley city of Tehachapi to Marin County in 1957, he immediately fell in love with majestic Mount Tamalpais and the surrounding foothills. For the next five decades he toured these peaks and valleys mostly by car, though once in a while he and his wife, Karlyn, would walk them together. Then last June, at age 86, just in time to celebrate Father’s Day, Horton achieved a longtime goal of doing it all on foot —ditching the car to walk nearly every street in Marin, from Fairfax to the Golden Gate Bridge and back.

“My original goal was to walk every day because I’d read how good it was for you,” the nowretired stockbroker says. “But after I walked all of San Rafael four times, I was bored. That’s when my wife suggested that I hike all of the county.”

According to Sui Tan, manager of the StreetSaver pavement maintenance assessment program for the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, “there are 960 miles of center-line streets in Marin from Sausalito to Fairfax and 2,043 lane miles.” O ver time, Horton probably logged close to 2,000 miles, but because he walked each street twice, down and back, his mileage is roughly 4,000.

Back in 2006, after retiring, he devised a five-year plan to walk every street south of Puerto Suello H ill (near the county Civic Center) to the Golden Gate Bridge, and then retrace his steps. To accomplish that, he walked every other day for an hour, using only a map, a walking stick and advice from his mail carrier. He made good time, too — on level ground he managed 5 mph; hills slowed the pace to 2 to 3 mph. by i y horto • P h otos by t im P orter

Local Walking Clubs

Sometimes it’s better to hike with a buddy, or five; here’s a list of Marin-based hiking clubs that welcome new members. SOPHIE S HULMAN

MARIN GROUP SIERRA CLUB This club and its approximately 7,000 members meet for hikes around the bay, in places like Point Reyes Seashore, China Camp State Park, Golden Gate N ational Recreation A rea and Tomales Bay. The club also focuses on conservation and environmental issues that impact the area and has an annual awards dinner. sfbay.sierraclub.org/marin

N OR TH BAY CHRI ST IAN H IKER S Scheduled hikes range from easy to strenuous, and Christian and non-Christian members are welcome. Most hikes are organized for adults, but children are welcome on walks and easy hikes. northbaychristianhikers.com

BAY AREA JEWISH SING LE SH IKIN G CLUB Formed in 1983, this club has more than 300 members. There is usually at least one activity each weekend, from day hikes, city hikes and potlucks to special getaways (Tahoe, Yosemite, ski trips, river rafting) and cultural events. bajshc.org

M ARIN MOONSHINER SHIKE AND PICNIC CLUB This meet-up.com group organized by John Benus gathers at sunset on or close to the evening of the full moon for a four-mile hike and bring-your-own picnic, plus post-hike socializing at a nearby club. Donation of $15 per person includes flashlights, blankets, lanterns, cups and plates. meetup.com/moonshinershike

GUIDED H IKE S ON M OUNT TAM O rganized hikes led by M ount Tamalpais I nterpretive A ssociation volunteers include hikes on Wednesday evenings (moderately paced, 3–5 miles), Saturdays (moderately paced, 5–7 miles) and Sundays (meet at 10 a.m., variety of difficulty levels). mttam.net

TAMALPAI S CON S ERVAT ION CLUB A group of volunteers dedicated to preserving park trails, the club sponsors hikes and other events to maintain and reroute trails in the park. tamalpais.org

Highlights included walking under the Golden Gate Bridge on Christmas Eve in 2010, seeing beautiful gardens and meeting friendly neighbors. He pounded the pavement in Greenbrae, Kentfield, Ross, San Anselmo, Fairfax, Larkspur, Corte Madera, Mill Valley, Marin City, Sausalito, Belvedere, San Rafael and Tiburon. “The guards wouldn’t allow me to walk San Quentin,” he adds.

But prison guards weren’t the only obstacle. “I carried a walking stick as a defense against dogs,” Horton says. “I’ve had two scary stando s.” The first was when a big Doberman came charging out of a yard in Ross. “I dropped into a crouch and faced the dog with the stick. Since their mouths are always open, I knew that if he kept coming he’d wind up with a stick in the stomach.” The second encounter was in the highest hills of Fairfax; a hundred-pound dog came tearing at him. “I went into the crouch and he came to a screeching halt, nose to nose with the stick. He didn’t budge and I didn’t budge.” Horton won that stando too; for the most part, he adds, run-ins with dogs and other such hazards were minimal.

After I walked all of San Rafael four times, I was bored. That’s when my wife suggested that I hike all of the county.

Most of the walks were pleasant and full of fun visual surprises punctuated by the sounds of lawnmowers and birdsong. Mornings were especially congenial: He noticed the flowers opening to greet the day, almost “as if welcoming me to their neighborhoods.” People often waved and Horton waved back. “Two of the things that really impressed me,” he says, “were the rose gardens and the friendly people.”

Any walker will tell you the inclines can be tough, and trekking over Marin’s topography was no di erent. “The only time that I ever stopped and rested,” Horton recounts, “was on a street in Corte Madera that was so steep, I had to lean against a redwood tree for three to four minutes to get my breath. But I like the killer streets.”

Of all the lanes he traveled, his favorite might be just outside his door. It’s Tweed Terrace, it curves up the golden hills in San Rafael, and it changes colors as the moon rises over Mount Tam.

Although Horton is proud of his accomplishment, in retrospect he actually sees the journey itself as the reward. “There were a lot of streets to walk,” he muses. “I’m kind of disappointed that I’m done.” m

The Streets According to John Horton

BEST LANDSCAPING

Lagunitas Road, Ross 1 mile. Park at Commons Park and follow Lagunitas Road to Natalie Coffin Greene Park and Phoenix Lake. Lined with large homes; well kept; colorful gardens; tall trees forming overhead canopies that reach across the street.

FAVORITE F L AT STREETS

Butterfield Road, San Anselmo 2.1 miles. Start at the intersection of Sir Francis Drake Boulevard and Butterfield Road. Continue through the residential neighborhood of Sleepy Hollow until it ends at the Sleepy Hollow Open Space Preserve.

San Anselmo Avenue, San Anselmo 0.5 miles. Park at St. Anselm Church on the corner of Bolinas Avenue and Shady Lane. Walk one block to the beginning of San Anselmo Avenue and follow it through the downtown shopping area until you reach Creek Park.

MOST SCENIC

Straits View Drive, Tiburon 1.6 miles. Park in downtown Tiburon and wind your way uphill to the short, crescent-shaped street for a spectacular view of the bay, the Golden Gate Bridge and a San Francisco cityscape.

Golden Gate Avenue, Belvedere 1.25 miles. Park near Belvedere Lagoon and walk down the avenue, which runs through the middle of Belvedere Island.

Wolfback Ridge, Sausalito 0.5 miles. Located in the residential neighborhood west of Highway 101, this hilltop street is backed by wilderness. For a shorter walk, park near the freeway; for a longer route, start in downtown Sausalito.

BEST UNDER-THE- R ADAR

N EIGH B ORHOOD STREET

Marin Avenue, Mill Valley 1.2 miles. This route runs through Tam Valley in an area tucked away from busy traffic.

BEST HOLIDAY D ECORATIONS

Fourth Street, San Rafael 0.8 miles. Park at the west end near H Street and walk among trees adorned with sparkling lights. Also, see decorated shop windows on the east side near the freeway.

STEEPEST ROU TE

Redwood Avenue, Larkspur 1 mile. Park near downtown Larkspur on Magnolia Avenue and walk beneath the tall redwood trees along Madrone Avenue. Redwood Avenue is a steep but short climb to the right, at the end of Madrone.

MOST P OP UL ATED

Canal Street, San Rafael 0.9 miles. Park near the intersection of Canal Street and Harbor Street and follow Canal Road along a small body of water until you reach Pickleweed Park and the Community Center.

P ERSONA L FAVORITE

Loch Lomond Drive, San Rafael

Loch Lomond Drive is a small street near the Loch Lomond Marina and Yacht Club. S.S.

today at canyon ranch

an entrepreneur tried three things he’d never done on vacation – a healthy cooking class, a fast-paced wallyball tournament and one whole day without checking messages.

This Is Your Moment.

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Destinations

THE LATEST LOCAL TRAVEL DEALS AND GETAWAYS PLUS JOURNEYS AROUND THE GLOBE

THE TAHOE CHALLENGE

3 ways to get your own mountain high.

BY MIMI TOWLE

Lake Tahoe’s Flume Trail offers breathtaking views.

YES, A FLURRY of recent investments totaling hundreds of millions have gone into Tahoe’s luxury resorts, and the local restaurants are attracting celebrity chefs and clientele like never before. But the main attraction here remains the same: recreation. Here are three proven adrenaline rushes that will enhance your next Tahoe adventure.

1 Pedal to the Metal

Mountain biking didn’t start in Tahoe, but the trails there have helped the sport evolve to new heights. With an elevation of 8,000

feet, the challenging 14-mile Flume Trail at Spooner Lake State Park is one of the most popular day rides. “It usually takes about four or more hours to complete the trail, and there is a substantial fitness requirement,” says Terry Roland of Flume Trail Mountain Bikes, located inside the park. “It starts with a four-mile climb from Spooner Lake to Marlette Lake.”

A s the tour is usually self-guided, many riders decide to stop here and take a dip at Marlette. “The ride can be a bit scary — as in there would be consequences if you went o the trail,” Roland adds. “However, it is not a technical trail.” Flume Trail Mountain Bikes has just

opened a second location, cafe and bike shop at the Ponderosa R anch in Incline Village and is o ering shuttles from this location to the Flume Trail starting early in the morning.

“The Flume Trail is suitable for most levels; however, there are a few places where walking your bike is required,” says Mitch Trux, co-owner of City Cycle in Larkspur, who recalls exploring Tahoe on two wheels during childhood visits to a family home in Carnelian Bay. Also fun to explore, he says, are sections of the Tahoe Rim Trail that connect to a network of trails above Tahoe City and Dollar Point, leading into the North Tahoe Nordic

The West Shore Cafe is a popular place to launch a stand-up paddleboard.

Center. “You can spend a couple hours or the entire day up on the mountain,” he adds. “You just need a good bike, a map, and enough food and water to get back down to the lake safely.” Rates start at $45 per day. theflumetrail.com

2 Walk on Water

One of the latest sports to sweep Lake Tahoe is stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Nearly a dozen rental outlets now dot the shore, and many hotels and condo units make boards available to guests. Avid racer Jen Fuller of Sausalito especially loves SUPing in Tahoe in June: “I can’t think of a more beautiful place to paddle on a warm day, with crystal-clear water where you can see down for 30 feet and

nature will have 20 million reasons to be jealous.

You’ll have almost as many choices for fun in the Tahoe sun. Relax on our private beach. Sail on a 55-foot catamaran. Play nearby golf courses. Bike, hike...

All while enjoying the luxury of our $20 million guestrooms and suites renovation. Plus four on-site restaurants, one on the lake, the soothing Stillwater Spa, our lagoon-style pool...

With Hyatt Free Time, an extra night on us will give you an extra Tahoe day. For details and reservations, call 888 510 0529 or visit laketahoe.hyatt.com.

look up at snow-covered mountains.” She also enjoys SUP surfing when the wind picks up. Rob Weston, formerly of Greenbrae and now the owner of West Shore Sports in Homewood, also loves to paddle. “McKinney Bay is about four miles wide on the West Shore and an ideal spot to explore on a SUP,” he says. It’s about a 35-minute paddle to the northernmost point, where you’ll find the Caspian picnic area; Weston recommends pulling up your board here and hiking to the top of Eagle Rock for a panoramic view of the lake. Heading south, SUPers can find attractions like Fleur du Lac, built by industrialist Henry J. Kaiser in just 29 days and later used as a film set location for The Godfather. “If you know the movie, it’s were Fredo got popped,” Weston says. “Sugar Pine Park is the southernmost part of the bay, with beautiful beaches and public restrooms.” He also tells clients about the newly opened West Shore Cafe, where they can beach their

boards on the grassy lawn and have lunch on the deck. Rentals range from $15 an hour to $70 for the day, depending on the type of board. westshoresports.com

3 A Hole in One

Golfers can perfect their swing and get closer to nature in the picturesque Tahoe Basin. Randy Bigony of Mill Valley, who is building a home in Martis Camp near Truckee, is a 30-year devotee of the sport (“I play seriously — just for fun”). According to Bigony, Martis Camp has the best views, facility and the most challenging course around. But it’s not just about golf: direct, private access to Northstar; 20 miles of hiking and cross-country ski trails; mountain biking; snowshoeing; swimming; outdoor field courts for multiple sports; and a state-of-the-art workout facility and spa make the location an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. “Golf is about spending time

Hole 15 at M artis Camp. Opposite page: Martis Camp’s 18th hole.

with your friends in beautiful places,” Bigony says. “Martis fits the bill.”

Betsy and Eber Jaques, golfers with homes in San Anselmo and Homewood, agree with Bigony but are partial to playing more than one course, including lake-area public courses like Coyote Moon, Old Greenwood, Old Brockway and Northstar. “Old Brockway probably has the best view of the lake, and we love the history,” Betsy says. It’s known as Lake Tahoe’s first-ever course; the opening scene of Bonanza was filmed on the second hole; and Bing Crosby’s original Clambake tournaments happened here. But the Jaques’ recent favorite is Scha er’s Mill (formerly Timilick Tahoe), near Martis Camp. Under new ownership, membership fees have dropped from $65,000 to $2,500, which includes a $500 credit for the pro shop and restaurant. And for this year only, the club is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. scha ersmill.com, martiscamp.com m

OFF TO THE R ACES

Receive elite treatment this horse racing season with the “Win, Place, Show” package. In addition to a luxurious stay at the Park Hyatt Aviara in Carlsbad, it includes the opportunity to arrive at the Del Mar racetrack in style in a BMW 6-Series convertible or sedan. You also get access to the exclusive Turf Club — a historic members-only club frequented by celebs like Gwen Stefani and Owen Wilson — and a private tour of the paddock for a glimpse of behind-thescenes action before the races begin. The package is available July 19− September 5 and starts at $395 per night. For more information, visit parkaviara.hyatt.com.

S OP HIE SH UL MAN

Night in the Park

There’s another reason to cross the Golden Gate Bridge thanks to the newly opened Inn at the Presidio Erected in 1903, the revamped Georgian Revival–style brick building (the first overnight accommodation available in the park) o ers a choice of 17 cozy tworoom suites and five guest rooms outfitted with flat-screen T Vs, fireplaces and old black-and-white photos recalling military days past. From $195 including breakfast, innatthepresidio.com

BRING A BLANKET

If you missed Internet sensation and Bay Area musician Nicki Bluhm with her band the Gramblers on YouTube or Perez Hilton, you can catch her as the opening act for Long M eadow R anch and Winery’s 2012 S ummer Concert S eries on June 9. The show takes place in the outdoor space next to Farmstead Restaurant in downtown St. Helena. Organic farm-raised food and locally made wine will be available for purchase, and blankets are recommended. longmeadowranch.com MIMI T OWL E

Road Trip Yoga

Seated moves to ensure a comfortable ride.

Headed on a car trip or planning to sit for a while in the friendly skies? You can prevent sti ness by doing simple stretches without leaving your seat, according to Stacie Dooreck of SunLight Yoga in Larkspur. For more moves, see her new book SunLight Chair Yoga or go to sunlightchairyoga.com. MIMI TOWLE

C ENTERING Sit in a comfortable position with the spine tall yet relaxed. Take a few deep, sighing breaths. Inhale and exhale for three counts each, five times.

WRIST AND ANKLE ROTATIONS Rotate the wrists, then the ankles — five times each.

NECK ROLLS Slowly make a circle with your nose five times in each direction, clockwise and counterclockwise. Inhale when facing upward and exhale when looking down. Keep shoulders relaxed.

A LTERNATE LEG L IFTS Inhale as you raise your lower leg from a bent knee, and exhale as you bring it back down. Switch sides. Repeat up to five times.

A LTERNATE ARM L IFTS Inhale as you lift your right arm. Exhale as you lower the arm. Switch sides. Repeat five times each.

SIDE STRETC H (CRES CENT M OON) Inhale, sitting tall, as you lengthen the spine skyward. Exhale, facing forward, as you lean gently to the right, placing your right hand by your right hip or letting it hang beside the chair, and raising your left hand to extend it over the left ear. Switch sides. Repeat three times on each side.

S PINAL TW IST Place feet on the floor, hip-width apart. Inhale as you sit tall. Lengthen the spine skyward. Exhale and twist gently to the right, placing your right hand behind you or on the side of the chair and your left hand on or near the right knee. Switch sides. Only twist as far as is comfortable, with no strain. You can repeat this posture once on each side.

F INAL R ELAXATION Rest your back against the chair with your legs one to two feet apart. Allow the legs to roll outward. Relax your arms with palms facing the sky, resting on your thighs. Observe the breath and body; relax for five to 10 minutes. Quiet the spirit and calm the mind. Slowly move your hands and feet to come out of the position and sit tall.

WIN 4 NIGHTS IN A LUXURIOUS OCEAN VIEWSTUDIO AT NEWLY REFRESHED THE WHALER ON KAANAPALI BEACH.

This exclusive, luxury condominium resort boasts a premier location on Maui’s most famous beach at Kaanapali. It’s located directly across from two championship golf courses and next door to the shops and restaurants of Whalers Village. The resort features a newly enhanced garden courtyard with waterfall and koi pond, and every luxurious unit features a full kitchen and spectacular view. (Value: $2,350) Enter at marinmagazine.com/whaler

4/18/12 2:14 PM Page 1

24th Annual Art Exhibit & Sale

Out & About

CALENDAR / O N THE SCENE / DINE

San Francisco

Symphony’s Black & White Ball

LI S TING ON PAGE 60

MUSIC

Janelle Monae

Calendar

EVENTS

Before the Bridge: Sight and Sound at the Golden Gate Immerse yourself in this visual and auditory story of life in the Presidio before the Golden Gate Bridge. Presidio (SF).

THEATER

T HROUGH J UN 9 Show

Choir! The M usical A mockumentary portraying young singers’ and directors’ struggle for national recognition. Children’s Creative Museum (SF). 415.749.2228, act-sf.org

T HROUGH J UN 17 The Night of the I guana Ross Valley Players present this tale of redemption set in an exotic Mexican coastal jungle. Barn Theatre (Ross). 415.456.9555, rossvalleyplayers.com

T HROUGH J UN 17 G od of Carnage Watch adults behave like children in the acclaimed Broadway comedy. Marin Theatre Company (Mill Valley). 415.388.5208, marintheatre.org

T HROUGH J UN 17

Noises O ff Novato Theater Company’s production of a play within a play. Novato Theater Company Playhouse (Novato). 415.883.4498, novatotheatercompany.org

T HROUGH J UN 17

The M usic M an See the Tony Award–winning musical in the Mountain Play’s acclaimed outdoor theater. Cushing Memorial Amphitheatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.1100, mountainplay.org

T HROUGH J UN 24

M agic T heatre: B ruja

A haunting story of ancient myths and sorceresses. Fort Mason Center (SF). 415.345.7500, magictheatre.org

J UN 1-3, 8-10 The Last U nicorn A musical inspired by Peter S. Beagle’s classic fantasy novel performed by the Don’t Quit Your Day Job Dancers. Stage Dor Performance Space (Sausalito). 415.339.1390, stagedor.com

J UN 8-J UL 14 R isk Is T his…The Cutting Ball New E xperimental Plays Festival A festival showcasing experimental plays that challenge the boundaries of conventional theater. Cutting Ball Theater (SF). 415.292.4700, cuttingball.com

J UN 21-J UL 15 The Scottsboro B oys A true story of nine young African American men accused of rape whose court trial helped spark the beginning of the civil rights movement, directed by Tony Award winner Susan Stroman. American Conservatory Theater (SF). 415.749.2228, act-sf.org

J UN 29-30 The Ghost

Sonata A tale surrounding the mystery of a terrible fire and an encounter between a student and an old man. Cutting Ball Theater (SF). 415.292.4700, cuttingball.com

COM E DY

T UE S DAYS Mark Pitta and Friends The comic hosts an evening for up-and-comers and established headliners to work on new material. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.9600, 142throckmorton theatre.com

DANCE

J UN 1 RoCo Dance

More than 400 performers in an evening of progressive contemporary dance. Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, rocodance.com

MUSIC

T UE S DAYS Swing Fever

The band pays tribute to jazz artists and composers with selections from its roster of over 1,000 tunes, every first and third Tuesday. Panama Hotel (San Rafael). 415.457.3993, panamahotel.com

T UE S DAYS Kortuzday

Jonathan Korty and Danny Uzilevsky host a weekly invitational jam that often attracts some big-name players and always produces great music. 19 Broadway (Fairfax). 415.459.1091, 19broadway.com

J UN 1 Franc D’A mbrosio

The Phantom of the Opera star performs live. George’s Nightclub (San Rafael). 415.226.0262, georgesnightclub.com

J UN 1–3 M ill Valley

P hilharmonic The free concert features the world premiere of Music of the Americas. Various locations (Marin). millvalley philharmonic.org

J UN 2 San Francisco Symphony’s Black & White B all Paul Simon and Cyndi Lauper headline this year’s event to benefit the symphony’s music education programs. Davies Symphony Hall (SF). 415.864.6000, sfsymphony.org

J UN 6 D elicacies for D iverse E nsembles

A musical presentation by Left Coast Chamber Ensemble, including a showcase

THEA T ER / COMEDY / M USI C / GALLERIES / M USEUMS / E VEN T S / F ILM EDITED BY SOPHIE SHULMAN

The San Carlos Enters the Golden Gate by G ordon Miller

of Debussy’s late work for harp, viola and flute. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.9600, 142throckmorton theatre.com

JU N 9 Gonzalo

R ubalcaba Featured solo, the European classical and jazz pianist who has earned 15 Grammy Award nominations and two Grammy Awards. Herbst Theatre (SF). 866.920.5299, s azz.org

JU N 18 N atalie Merchant with the San Francisco Symphony The talented songwriter performs her best hits with the symphony. Davies Symphony Hall (SF). 415.864.6000, sfsymphony.org

JU N 21 Jazz at George’s The continuing series features live music by Lloyd Gregory and the Jazz All-Stars. George’s Nightclub (San Rafael). 415.226.0262, georgesnightclub.com

JU N 22 M arinwood Music in the Park Beer, wine, food and music from Allen Clapp, the Hollyhocks, the Corner Laughers and William Cleere and the Marvelous Fellas. Marinwood Park (San

Rafael). 415.479.0775, marinwood.org

JU N 29 Delta R ae

The alternativeAmericana rock band returns to its hometown to perform and celebrate the release of its first album. The Independent (SF). 415.771.1421, theindependentsf.com

GALLERIES

MARIN

Acacia Gallery Ongoing work by Kathleen Lipinski, Steve Emery and Birgitta Kappe. 4162 Redwood Hwy, San Rafael. 415.479.3238, acaciagallery.net

Art A bloom Studio and Gallery Oil paintings by Gabriella Spina Drake and classes for artists. 751 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo. 415.256.1112, artabloom.com

Art Works Downtown Surface Design A sculpture and mixedmedia display created by Virginia Breier. 1337 Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.451.8119, artworksdowntown.org

Mona Lease Gallery Work by artist Maria Burtis. 39 Greenbrae Boardwalk, Greenbrae. 415.461.3718, monalease.net

O’Hanlon Center for the A rts Wabi Sabi The ninth annual show and works by Cayen Robertson, June 5–28. 616 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.388.4331, ohanloncenter.org

Claudia Chapline Gallery Collage and assemblage. 3445

Shoreline Hwy, Stinson Beach. 415.868.2308, cchapline.com

Gallery Bergelli New works from gallery artists. 483 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur. 415.945.9454, bergelli.com

Gallery Route One Work by Andrew Romano and Patty Trimble. 11101 Hwy One, Point Reyes Station. 415.663.1347, galleryrouteone.org

Marin A rts Ongoing work. 906 Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.666.2442, marinarts.org

Marin County Watercolor Society Hail to the People New work, through August. Civic Center, 3501 Civic Center Dr, San Rafael. marincountywater colorsociety.com

Marin Society of A rtists Hidden Places, Fleeting Moments A juried exhibit open to MSA members working in all media, two- and three-dimensional, June 10–30. 30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Ross. 415.454.9561, marinsocietyofartists.org

Robert Allen Fine Art Abstract Works on Paper Featuring unique works on paper and limited-edition prints by Susan Adame, Tracey Adams, Sharron Bliss, Larry Gray, Shelley Hall, Henry Isaacs, Sydell Lewis and Kazuko Watanabe. 301 Caledonia St, Sausalito. 415.331.2800, robertallenfineart.com

Robert Green Fine A rts Six Guys and a Girl A revolving group show of regular gallery artists, through September 2. 154 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.381.8776, rgfinearts.com

Rock Hill Gallery Watercolors by Jeannie Vodden. 145 Rock Hill Dr, Tiburon. 415.435.9108, ccctiburon.net

Seager Gray Gallery Paintings by Elizabeth Gorek. 23 Sunnyside Ave, Mill Valley. 415.384.8288, seagergray.com

Smith A ndersen N orth Found Rare vintage prints by Leonard Zielaskiewicz. 20 Greenfield Ave, through June 9. 2240A Fourth St, San Anselmo. 415.455.9733, smith andersennorth.com

Corner Laughers at Marinwood M usic in the Park

Stinson Beach Library

Gallery Marinade A Surfrider Foundation photographic display of surfing in Marin, through August.

3521 Shoreline Highway, Stinson Beach. 415.827.2449, surfrider.org/marin

Studio 333 Exhibition featuring more than 40 Bay Area artists working in di erent mediums.

333A Caledonia St, Sausalito. 415.331.8272, studio333.info

Studio 4 A rt Work by local artists; classes and workshops with materials included.

1133 Grant Ave, Novato. 415.596.5546, studio4art.net

The Image Flow Group Work by Stuart Schwartz, Barbara Hazen and Tim Porter. 401 Miller Ave, Ste F, Mill Valley. 415.388.3569, theimageflow.com

JU N 3 Oliver Ranch Art Tour

Visit 18 site-specific art installations, including works by Andy Goldsworthy and Bill Fontana, at Oliver Ranch in Sonoma in celebration of Marinlink’s 10-year anniversary. Northgate (San Rafael). 415.472.0211, marinlink.org

SAN FRANCISCO

A rtHaus First international mobile-phone photography awards exhibition. 411 Brannan St, 415.977.0223, arthaus-sf.com

Berggruen Gallery

Works by Wayne Thiebaud and Michael

Gregory. 228 Grant Ave, 415.781.4629, berggruen.com

Cain Schulte Gallery Crossover Sculptures by Gyongy Laky, through June 9. 251 Post St, 415.543.1550, cainschulte.com

Elins Eagles-Smith Gallery New works by Raphaelle Gothalls. 49 Geary St, 415.981.1080, eesgallery.com

George Krevsky Gallery Artistic Visions of the Golden Gate Bridge Honoring the 75th anniversary of the Golden Gate Bridge, through June 9. 77 Geary St, 415.397.9748, georgekrevsky gallery.com

Gregory Lind Gallery

Paintings by Barbara Takenaga, through June 16. 49 Geary St, 415.296.9661, gregorylindgallery.com

M eyerovich Gallery Lantern Flowers New works by Donald Sultan, through June 18. 251 Post St,

A sculpture by Roger Berry

415.421.7171, meyerovich.com

Paul M ahder Gallery

Conti drawings by Oscar Camilo de las Flores, through July. 3378 Sacramento St, 415.474.7707, paulmahdergallery.com

Rena Bransten Gallery

Drawings from Amparo Sard and a group exhibition celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Golden Gate Bridge, through June 2. 77 Geary St, 415.982.3292, renabransten gallery.com

Weinstein Gallery

Ongoing exhibits. 301 Geary St, 415.362.8151, weinstein.com

MUSEUMS

MARIN

Bolinas M useum Behind the Altar An exhibition of the Paul LeBaron Thiebaud collection of Mexican retablos (Bolinas). 415.868.0330, bolinasmuseum.org

Marin History M useum

Marin IJ: 150 Years of Ink The story of how the Marin Independent Journal evolved, in celebration of its 150th anniversary (San Rafael). 415.454.8538, marinhistory.org

Marin Museum of Contemporary A rt Featuring the top 50 digital images among submissions to the Summer National Juried Exhibition, through July 15

An active, yet relaxed lifestyle permeates through every Member and aspect of Marin Country Club. Located in the tranquil Ignacio Valley, the illustrious clubhouse sets the scene for an impeccably groomed 18-hole championship golf course. Collaborating with the challenging course to enhance the lifestyle, recreational facilities include: four lit, plexi-cushion tennis courts; a fully equipped fitness center; and a family focused aquatic facility–with programs for children and adults alike. Enjoy numerous, year-round social activities for the opportunity to create lasting family memories and lifelong friendships. Contact the Membership Director at 415.382.6712 for information on our New Membership Programs.

415.382.6712

(Novato). 415.506.0137, marinmoca.org

Marin Museum of the A merican I ndian

Explore the history, languages, art and traditions of Native

Americans (Novato). 415.897.4064, marinindian.com

BAY AREA

California Academy of Sciences Nightlife

Enjoy music, creatures

and cocktails for adults only and take some time to explore the exhibits and aquarium displays every Thursday night (SF). 415.379.8000, calacademy.org

Chinese Historical Society of A merica Remnants: Artists Respond to the Chinese American Experience Works from five artists that highlight personal narrative, memory and family (SF).

415.391.1188, chsa.org

Conservatory of Flowers Plantosaurus

Rex: Prehistoric Plants at the Conservatory of Flowers Exhibit featuring plants from the time of Dinosaurs, through October 12 (SF).

415.831.2090, conservatoryo owers.org

Contemporary Jewish M useum California Dreaming Explore the history of the Bay Area’s Jewish community with a documentary video and photographs,

LifestyleExperience

Marin Country Club is proudly managed by Troon Privé.

Four Cakes by Wayne Thiebaud at Berggruen Gallery

through October 16 (SF). 415.655.7800, thecjm.org

de Young The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier: From the Sidewalk to the Catwalk

See a presentation of 30 animated mannequins displaying the provocative designs of Jean Paul Gaultier, through August 19. Also Arthur Tress: San Francisco 1964, a rediscovered lost body of photographic works depicting San Francisco locals during a politically and culturally exciting time, through June 3 (SF). 415.750.3600, deyoung.famsf.org

di Rosa Preserve Cycle Hung Liu challenges the documentary authority of historical

Chinese photographs by painting the same objects, through June 10 (Napa). 707.226.5991, dirosapreserve.org

Exploratorium

Interactive exhibits provide an ongoing exploration of science, art and human perception (SF). 415.397.5673, exploratorium.edu

Legion of Honor The Cult of Beauty: The Victorian Avant-Garde, 1860-1900 An exploration of the British Aesthetic movement with a focus on its beginnings with a small circle of progressive artists and poets and ending with its arrival in the middle-class home, through June 17 (SF). 415.750.3600, legiono onor.org

Museum of the African Diaspora Exhibitions that blend art and innovative technology with the African tradition of storytelling are the focus at this unique museum (SF). 415.358.7200, moadsf.org

Oakland Museum of California The 1968 Exhibit An exploration of social, political and economic events in 1968 America, through August 19 (Oakland). 510.318.8400, museumca.org

San Francisco Museum and Historical Society San Francisco and the Movies A showcase of movies and filmmaking that have marked San Francisco as a unique film capital, June 16–24 (SF). 415.537.1105, s istory.org

San Francisco Museum of Craft and Folk Art Only Birds Sing the

Music of Heaven in This World This exhibition, organized by artist Harrell Fletcher, explores the relationship between art and

agriculture from a variety of perspectives, through July 7 (SF). 415.227.4888, mocfa.org

RoCo Dance at Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium

SFMO MA Mark

Bradford Billboard paper, posters, newsprint and more play into Mark Bradford’s abstract paintings made from fragments of the urban environment, through June 17 (SF). 415.357.4000, sfmoma.org

Stinson Beach Gallery

FARMART An agriculturally themed exhibit with work by West Marin artists, through June 5 (Stinson Beach). 415.465.4787, stinson beachgallery.com

Yerba Buena Center for the A rts Super 8 Eight artists from eight cities across the globe share their videos in a multichannel format, through July 7 (SF). 415.978.2787, ybca.org

EVENTS

THROUGH OCT 28

Before the Bridge: Sight and Sound at the Golden Gate Immerse yourself in this visual and auditory story of life in the Presidio before the Golden Gate Bridge. Presidio (SF). 415.561.5418, presidio.gov

J UN 2 Marin Society of A rtists A nnual Art

Auction An auction of 250 works to benefit Marin Society of Artists. Marin Art and Garden Center (Ross). 415.454.9561, marin societyofartists.org

J UN 2 Marin Home and Garden Expo

Showcasing the details, trends and innovative ideas for the Marin

home, including home improvement exhibitors, lectures, live music and kids’ activities. Civic Center (San Rafael). 415.507.1537, marinhomegarden.com

J UN 2 Sixth A nnual

Jerry R andall M emorial Golf Tournament A tournament celebrating the life of a favorite Whistlestop bus driver. StoneTree Golf Course (Novato). 415.686.2311, jerryrandall memorial.com

J UN 2–3 36th A nnual

Union Street Eco-Urban Festival Art and crafts featuring recycled and sustainable materials, exhibits, food and music on one of San Francisco’s most fashionable streets. Union St (SF).

800.310.6563, sresproductions.com

J UN 2, 9 Artists of M ount Tamalpais Open Studios Explore artists’ studios and view their work. Various locations (Mt. Tam). mounttamartists.org

J UN 3 Second A nnual Art of Eating: Women Who Change the Way We Eat Food and wine pairings, dessert, and live and silent auctions promoting conscious awareness of the way we eat and drink in America. Audubon Canyon Ranch’s Bouverie Preserve (Glen Ellen). 415.868.9244, egret.org

J UN 6-28 Blind and Vision- Impaired of Marin A rt Exhibit An exhibit of watercolor paintings produced by blind and visionimpaired members. Fairfax Library (Fairfax). 415.482.9399, bvim.org

J UN 7 81st A nnual California Book Awards A ceremony honoring the literary achievements of authors in the Bay Area. The Commonwealth Club

Marin County’s only complete golf experience is back and better than ever. Experience our redesigned championship course with lush fairways, restored and manicured greens, the county’s only all-grass driving range, and practice facility. Refresh with great food and drink at RangeCafe, a remarkable new restaurant.

The Music Man at Mountain Play

(SF). 415.597.6700, commonwealthclub.org

JU N 9 Sidewalk CP R: Don’t M iss a Beat Learn how to perform handsonly CPR and how to

use an AED through demonstrations from doctors, nurses, paramedics and firefighters. Various locations (Marin). 415.473.6871, marinems.org

JU N 9–10 35th A nnual

Fairfax Festival Enjoy a parade, live music, children’s activities, an eco-fest and more. Downtown Fairfax. 415.485.5699, fairfaxfestival.com

JU N 10 Escape from A lcatraz Triathlon World champions, Olympic medalists and the best amateur athletes from around the world swim through frigid waters, bike 18 miles and run another 8 miles in a simulated attempt to escape from the famed prison.

Various locations (SF). escapefromalcatraz triathlon.com

JU N 10 Second A nnual San Quentin Peace Walk Unite with the inmates of San Quentin to support peace and benefit the Global Youth Peace Summit. San Quentin (San Rafael). 512.476.8884, amalafoundation.org

JU N 10 Le Petit M arché

An outdoor antique market reminiscent of a French neighborhood street market. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium Parking Lot (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org

JU N 16 16th A nnual

Marin A rt Festival

The outdoor party features works from over 250 artists, whimsical stilt walkers, taiko drumming, children’s activities and live music. Civic Center (San Rafael). 415.388.0151, marinartfestival.com

JU N 16 A lt. Ride up to Mount Hamilton, Mount Tamalpais and Mount Diablo using a combination of public transportation and bikes on one of the longest Saturdays of the year. Starts at Joseph Grant Campground (San Jose). 510.809.8009, openspacecouncil.org

JU N 16-17 58th A nnual N orth Beach Festival

Visit San Francisco’s Little Italy to enjoy art, live entertainment and gourmet food. North Beach (SF). 800.310.6563, sresproductions.com

JU N 16 City Guides

Introduces You to Alfred Hitchcock’s San Francisco A walking tour of the spots used in Alfred Hitchcock’s classic films, from Nob Hill to Union Square. Various locations (SF). 415.537.1105, s istory.org

JU N 18 2012 Art

Houses of M arin Enjoy dinner and drinks and your chance to own one of the six artist-designed scalemodel houses made

Sutter Pacific now provides online tools to manage your health. You can email your doctor, request an appointment, view lab results and renew prescriptions. Our doctors, who are part of the Sutter Health network, are affiliated with some of the most respected hospitals in the region and provide quality care at locations near you.

• Request a primary care appointment online – even for new patients

• Primary care and specialty doctors throughout Marin

• Same day appointments available

Mary Burke MD Psychiatry

Sydney Sawyer MD Pediatrics

Tareq Elqousy MD Pediatrics Internal Medicine

Phenomena Sign of the Crest by Paul Jenkins at Robert Green Fine Arts

this year. Proceeds benefit the Ritter Center. Community Center (Mill Valley). 415.457.8182, arthousesofmarin.org

JU N 18-30 Summer

Stars A musical theater workshop for grades three to eight. Novato Theater Company (Novato). 415.883.4498, novatotheater company.org

JU N 24 31st A nnual Mill Valley Wine and Gourmet Food Tasting

JU N 30 Third A nnual Ghirardelli Square

KidsBash A bounce house, bubbles, live music, a train and face painters for kids. Ghirardelli Square (SF). 800.310.6563, sresproductions.com

The Depot comes alive with samplings of quality wines and delicious food. The wine and food celebration was started by Jim Canepa, former owner of Mill Valley Market, in 1981. Depot Plaza (Mill Valley). 415.388.9700, millvalley.org

JU N 30–JUL 4 Marin County Fair The 67th annual five-day community and agricultural celebration includes amusement park rides, competitions, free big-name concerts and tasty treats. Civic Center (San Rafael). 415.473.6400, marinfair.org

FILM

JU N 8 Bel Ami Robert Pattinson stars in the film adaptation of Guy de Maupassant’s 1885 novel about a man who uses seduction and manipulation to rise through the ranks of Parisian society.

Christopher B. Smith Rafael Film Center (San Rafael). 415.454.1222, cafilm.org

JU N 17 Music from the Big House A presentation of blues musician

Rita Chirelli’s documentary followed by a live performance.

Christopher B. Smith Rafael Film Center (San Rafael). 415.454.1222, cafilm.org

JU N 19, 24 In the Shadow of the Bridge Screening of Ned Kahn’s film about the shadows on the Golden Gate Bridge and what they reveal. Headlands Center for the Arts (Sausalito). 415.331.2787, headlands.org

NATURE WALKS & TALKS

JU N 2 WildCare Family Adventures Egret City Learn from experienced naturalists in excursions to nearby parks. WildCare (San Rafael). 415.453.1000, wildcarebayarea.org

marinscuba.org

JU N 20 Marin Scuba Club Club photographer Paula Butler discusses her experiences in the field. The Flatiron (San Rafael).

San Quentin Peace Walk

THE COUNTER California/American The folks at The Counter have taken the “have it your way” motto to a new level. Mostly known for all-natural Angus beef, turkey, chicken or veggie burgers, the restaurant also offers options like a bowl (all the ingredients without the bun) or salads. And if you want a martini with your burger, no problem; there’s a full bar. 201 Corte Madera Town Center 415.924.7000, thecounterburger.com

CORTE MADERA

BENISSIMO Italian

“Benissimo” means “really really good” in Italian. Besides the daily 4-to-7 happy hour when drinks are $3 to $5 and small plates $5 to $7, specials include happy hour all day on Monday, free corkage on Tuesday, martini night on Wednesday,

and live jazz on Thursday. 18 Tamalpais Dr, 415.927.2316, benissimos.com

BOCA PIZZERIA Italian

Good luck getting a seat at this new indooroutdoor family-friendly pizzeria in the Village at Corte Madera. Owners Shah Bahreyni and Sam Ramadan’s 142-seat eatery features Neapolitan-style pizza topped with imported San Marzano tomatoes and fresh house-made mozzarella. 1544 Redwood Hwy, 415.924.3021, bocapizzeria.com

BRICK & BOTTLE

California Sourcing local and artisanal ingredients, executive chef Scott Howard brings simple California cuisine to Corte Madera’s Brick & Bottle. The restaurant features a large bar area, an outdoor patio and family-friendly dining. 55 Tamal Vista Blvd, 415.924.3366, brickandbottle.com

C HAM PAGNE BAKERY

French This casual bakery displays freshly made pastries, croissants, tarts, cookies and cakes, to be enjoyed indoors or out on the patio. Brioche French toast and French dip sandwich with Swiss cheese are among the many menu options. Catering is also available. 103 Corte Madera Town Ctr, 415.927.5470, champagnebakery.com

IL FORNAIO Italian Sausalito’s Larry Mindel hit a home run with this upscale Italian restaurant franchise. Besides the award-winning breads, pizzas and pastas, the menu o ers a variety of salads and noncarb entrées. 223 Corte Madera Town Ctr, 415.927.4400, ilfornaio.com

M ARIN JOE’S Italian Authentic Italian dishes have been served here for over 50 years. Pick from soup, salad, seafood, mesquite-grilled or sautéed meats and more than 10 pasta options guaranteed to satisfy. Have a drink and hear local musicians at the well-known piano bar. 1585 Casa Buena Dr, 415.924.2081, marinjoesrestaurant.com

PACI FIC C ATCH PanA sian The well-priced menu here o ers a bounty of fresh-grilled items and Pacific Rim—inspired small or main plates, including generously portioned wasabi bowls filled with rice (white or brown), veggies and your choice of chicken, beef and cooked or raw fish. It’s modeled after the Paia Fish House on Maui, down to the chalkboard menu and Hawaiian music. 133 Corte Madera Town Ctr, 415.927.3474, pacificcatch.com

Veggie Burger at The Counter in Corte Madera

SE A THAI BI ST RO

Asian SEA stands for Southeast Asian, and co-owner and executive chef Tony Ounpamornchai infuses his cooking with Thai and other Asian flavors to create innovative dishes. 60 Corte Madera Ave, 415.927.8333, seathaibistro.com

FAIRFA X

123 BOLINAS California

Known for farm-fresh, organic cuisine, 123 Bolinas was created by four friends who aimed to showcase seasonal fare in a relaxing, intimate environment. 123 Bolinas St, 415.488.5123, 123bolinas.com

I RON SPRING SPUB & BR EWE RY American

Grab a beer and a grilled portobello mushroom sandwich — which one Chronicle reviewer calls “the best mushroom dish I have ever tasted.” 765 Center Blvd, 415.485.1005, ironspringspub.com

GREENBR AE

BI ST RO VIS À VIS

California

This Bon Air Shopping Center eatery features the cooking of Michelinstar-rated chef Mike Fredsall. 282 Bon air Ctr, 415.925.4370, bistrovisavis.com

WIP EOU T BAR & G RILL American The family-friendly hot spot has sur oards hanging from the ceiling, fun-in-the-sun music, a full bar and large televisions displaying surfers riding waves. Menu includes fish tacos, salads and burgers.The only thing missing is the sand at this surf-style, upbeat

eatery. Kids eat free on Tuesdays with each purchase of an adult entrée. 302 Bon Air Ctr, 415.461.7400, wipeoutbarandgrill.com

KENTFIELD

HALF DAY CAFE

American A tuckedaway setting of intertwining ivy and large open windows makes a perfect breakfast nook that’s also open for brunch and lunch. Dine on the outdoor patio or inside. 848 College Ave, 415.459.0291, halfdaycafe.com

PAC IFI C CAF E Seafood

For 37 years, customers have been coming to this 115-seat casual restaurant for the fresh seafood and superior customer service. The owner is friendly and welcoming; as a Yelp reviewer commented, “It felt like we were having dinner at a friend’s house.” Another perk is the complimentary glass of wine while you wait for a table. Halfbottles of wine available for $8. 850 College Ave, 415.456.3898

LARKSPUR

EL H UARACHELOCO

Mexican Bringing authentic Mexico City dishes to Marin, chef Veronica Salazar’s menu has gained quite a following. From mini huaraches (filled corn masa cakes) to the footlong huarache with two salsas, crema, queso fresco and two toppings of your choice, you get a true taste of a homemade Mexican meal. 1803 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.925.1403, huaracheloco.com

BLUESTONE MAIN

Dungeness Crab Pizza

A seafood chef’s recipe for the perfect pie.

Novato’s Parke Ulrich has been executive chef at Waterbar in San Francisco since it opened in 2008. This recipe underwent about 10 iterations before Ulrich hit on the formula he liked, but it is now a popular seasonal menu item. Ulrich says the mascarpone is a creamy neutral flavor component that also works well with prawns or shrimp as a substitution for crab. Vegetarians can top the pizza with artichoke and fennel instead of the seafood. Ulrich loves to make this tasty treat for his family at home in his outdoor oven. “The wood oven takes about two hours to get to 400 degrees, which is great to cook potatoes or roast peppers — really anything you would cook in your traditional oven at 400 degrees,” he says. “Once it gets up to 800 degrees we cook the pizzas; we then let it start to cool and sear steak or fish for dinner. Later that night when it is back down to 400 degrees again, we will put in something like a whole chicken for 45 minutes or so.”

Amazingly, the next morning the oven will still be hot, so the family uses it to prepare eggs, frittatas and even bread. “It has been a great investment and a great tool for teaching my children how to cook.”

MIMI TOWLE

Dungeness Crab Pizza

YIELDS 1, 10-INCH PIZZA

I ngredients

¼ ounce yeast, instant

2 cups warm water

O cup sugar

3 ounces all-purpose flour

6 ounces bread flour

1 ½ tablespoon salt

all-purpose flour for dusting

1 pizza stone

1 tablespoon olive oil

kosher salt

8 ounce mascarpone

2 tablespoons crab mascarpone (recipe follows)

2 ounces picked, shelled D ungeness crabmeat (recipe follows)

1 ounce pickled jalapeños (recipe follows)

¼ cup champagne vinegar

¼ lemon

1 cup arugula

Pizza dough preparation:

1 Let yeast, water and ½ teaspoon sugar “bloom” for five minutes in a bowl. Add remaining dry ingredients. Using a food mixer, mix with a dough hook on slow speed for 8 minutes. 2 Place dough in oiled bowl. Flip over so both sides are oiled. Wrap and let sit overnight in refrigerator. (If using right away, chill for about 1 hour.) 3 Remove dough from refrigerator and cut into six equal portions. 4 Let sit for one hour before forming pizzas.

For the crabmeat and crab mascarpone:

1 Bring pot of water to boil and season with salt so it tastes like the ocean. 2 Place a live crab in the boiling water and partially cook for six minutes. 3 Remove and plunge into ice water to cool it down. 4 Clean the crab and reserve the meat and any juices that were inside the crab; discard the shells or save for another purpose. 5 Take some of the juice and add to an 8-ounce tub of mascarpone. Whisk together and adjust consistency to thin it by adding more of the juice; season with salt. (Alternatively, use storebought fresh whole cracked crab and clean carefully.)

To pickle the jalapeños:

1 Slice or shave thin rings from four jalapeños. 2 In a pot, place ¼ cup water, ¼ cup champagne vinegar and ½ cup sugar. Bring to a boil and adjust the balance of sweetness versus acidity by adding sugar or vinegar. 3 Pour liquid over the jalapeños, cover and let cool in refrigerator.

To cook:

1 Preheat the oven to 500°F for one hour with the pizza stone on the bottom of the oven or on the lowest rack. 2 Generously flour your work space and place pizza dough in the center of the floured space. Dust the dough lightly with flour. 3 Prepare and stretch the dough out to about 10 inches, then lay it on a flourdusted pizza peel. 4 Brush the rim of the dough with the olive oil and season all the dough with kosher salt. 5 Spoon the mascarpone over the dough working from the center outward, leaving a one-inch rim without any sauce. Add jalapeños and picked crabmeat.

6 Use the pizza peel to slide the pizza into the oven and let bake until the crust is brown and crispy, 8–12 minutes. 7 Remove the pizza from the oven, cut it into sixths and then, using a fine grater, zest the lemon over the top. Finish with a topping of arugula and serve.

EMPORIO R ULLI

Italian Pastry chef Gary Rulli is renowned for his Northern Italian specialties and treats. The Larkspur location (there are three others) is a favored spot for lunch as well as co ee and a sweet. 464 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.7478, rulli.com

LE FT BANK

RE STAURANT French

Known for awardwinning French cuisine and a lively brasserie ambience, this corner spot on Magnolia Avenue has rated high with locals for well over a decade. 507 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.3331, leftbank.com

RUSTIC BAKE RY

California Organic mouthwatering pastries, breads and sandwiches are on the menu here, including Meyer lemon mascarpone danishes and a bacon, avocado and heirloom tomato sandwich with mesclun. 1139 Magnolia Ave, 415.925.1556, rusticbakery.com

THE TAV ERN AT LARK

CR EE K American

The next chapter in the 1888 Victorian Murphy House, formerly known as Lark Creek Inn, is being written by chef Aaron Wright. 234 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.7766, tavernatlarkcreek.com

MILL VALLEY

BAL B OA C AF E

MILL VALL EY

California The San Francisco institution has already become a place to see and be seen in Mill Valley, especially after the 142 Throckmorton comedy nights. Menu items include pan-roasted Alaskan halibut and risotto and burgers. Now o ering a prix fixe menu every Monday. 38 Miller Ave, 415.381.7321, balboacafe.com

BOO KOO Asian Finally

Mill Valley has an Asian street food restaurant and best of all, dishes are $10 and less. The menu o ers something for every eater — vegan, gluten-free, vegetarian, carnivore. Menu items include chicken pho, vegan summer rolls, pad thai and fivespice pork satay — all

G ET READY TO WEAR

so

Bikinis and beaches are

Spaghettini Prawns at WildFox in Novato

made with organic, locally produced veggies and proteins from vegetarian-fed, sustainably raised sources. 25 Miller Ave, 415.888.8303, eatbookoo.com

CAFE DEL SOUL

California Beware of addiction. Once you stop in for the deliciously fresh Hummus Yummus wrap, you’ll have to return to sample the chipotle Sunrise Rice Bowl; then it will be the Thai It Up wrap with peanut sauce washed down with ginger limeade that brings you back, and so on. Casual lunch spot, great for takeout. 247 Shoreline Hwy, 415.388.1852, cafedelsoul.net

CANTINA Mexican

Owner Thomas Wilson and new business partner John Burns have revamped the outdoor eating areas to include two fireplaces and circular cushioned seating. The traditional Mexican fare honors the original menu: soups, salads, sandwiches and sizzling fajitas at lunch portions and prices. Happy hour drinks and appetizers are $5 and under. 651 E. Blithedale, 415.381.1070, thecantina.com

CHAMPAGNE

French Enjoy a croque-monsieur alfresco, linger over a flaky, buttery croissant with a cappuccino, or pick up chocolatedipped strawberries for your dinner party. 41 Throckmorton Ave, 415.380.0410, millvalley.champagne bakery.com

H AWK’ STAVERN

American Pop into this country-style tavern for a quick snack —a fresh-baked pretzel or sautéed red kale — or settle down for a farm-totable meal. 507 Miller Ave, 415.388.3474, hawkstavern.com

G RILLY’ S

RESTAURANT Mexican

Both the Mill Valley and Fairfax locations o er “healthy Mexican food” like grilled chicken, steak or veggie-filled burritos with glutenfree and vegetarian options. 493 Miller Ave, 415.381.3278, grillys.com

H ARMONY Chinese

pollo novello, or make some new friends at the bar. 22 Miller Ave, 415.388.2000, piazzadangelo.com

PIATTI RISTORANTE

AN D BAR Italian The sta prides itself on capturing the warm and welcoming atmosphere of a traditional Italian trattoria. Try for a table at the window for a truly exceptional view right on the water. Take a peek at the impressive collection of Italian wines to go with your rustic seasonal Italian meal. 625 Redwood Hwy, 415.380.2525, piatti.com

PIZZA A NTI CA Italian

SUPER DUPER BURGER

EL PASEO H OU SE OF

CHOP S American The award-winning dining destination has been purchased and revamped (with House of Chops added to its name) by Mill Valley musician/restaurateur Sammy Hagar and S.F. Chronicle ’s 2012 Rising Star Chef Preston Clark. 17 Throckmorton Ave, 415.388.0741, elpaseomillvalley.com

FRANTOIO

RISTORANTE

ITALIANO Italian

Known for its in-house olive press, superior olive oil and excellent Italian cuisine, this spot is a great location for an intimate dinner, large groups and anything in between. The popular happy hour starts at 4:30. 152 Shoreline Hwy, 415.289.5777, frantoio.com

Dishes here are an infusion of many flavors. The barbecue pork bun is filled with house-made roasted meat in a savory sauce; fresh mussels are accented with red chili and Thai basil. Pair your pick with wine, beer or tea. Strawberry Village, 415.381.5300, harmonyrestaurant group.com

JOE’ STACO LOUNGE

Mexican Joe’s serves up regular fare such as tasty fish tacos, burritos and enchiladas as well as more unusual items like Mexican pizza, tofu salad and crab tostadas. Colorful interior and (usually) quick service make this a fun, easy stop. And if there are too many unsupervised kids for a peaceful meal, takeout is easy too. 382 Miller Ave, 415.383.8164

PIAZZA D’ANGELO

Italian It’s always a party at this longstanding hot spot. A great place to meet up with friends for a fresh plate of pasta, zuppa di pesce or

Although a recent Yelp reviewer praised it for having “by far the best thin-crust pizzas in Marin,” this Strawberry shopping center spot also o ers antipasti and hearty salads. Wine is served by the glass, half carafe or bottle. 800 Redwood Hwy, 415.383.0600, pizzaantica.com

ROBATA GRILL AND SU S HI Japanese Robata translates as “by the fireside”; fittingly, food here can be cooked on an open fire and served in appetizer-size portions to pass around the table. Or simply order your own sushi or entrée from the menu. 591 Redwood Hwy, 415.381.8400, robatagrill.com

SMALL SHED

F LAT B REA DS California

Slow food chef Ged Robertson uses only local, mostly organic ingredients. Crowd favorites include the Mt. Tamal-pie, a delicious fresh salad atop a flatbread. 17 Madrona St, 415.383.4200, smallshed.com

A MERI CAN “Fast food burgers, slow food values” is this burger joint’s motto. Prepared with 100 percent allnatural beef that’s ground fresh daily, these burgers will make your mouth water. Pies and cookies are baked in house, and shakes, in such flavors as cookies and cream and double chocolate and chips, are made with organic Straus Creamery soft-serve from Petaluma. Sit at one of 20 indoor or outdoor tables or take away in environmentally friendly compostable containers. 430 Miller Ave, 415.380.8555, superdupersf.com

SWEETWATER MUSIC

HALL CAFE A MERI CAN Located at the entrance of Sweetwater Music Hall, the cafe is a small oasis of calm dedicated to the F.L.O.S.S. philosophy: Fresh, Local, Organic, Seasonal and Sustainable. O ering breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch, the menu includes brown-butter scrambled eggs on avocado toast, crispy chicken sliders with gingery

Outdoor dining at Piatti in M ill Valley

cabbage slaw and vegan Thai spring rolls with sweet and sour sauce. 19 Corte Madera Ave, 415.388.3850, sweet watermusichall.com

TAMALPIE Italian

Traditional pizzas from a 1,500-year-old recipe, with organic ingredients gathered from the farmers’ market twice weekly. Sit indoors or out; enjoy starters like creamy polenta, salads, and pies with names like Hoo-kooE-koo and Railroad Grade. 477 Miller Ave, 415.388.7437, tamalpiepizza.com

TOAST American

Take the kids out for an omelet or pancake breakfast at this cozy venue; lunch and dinner are served, too. 31 Sunnyside Ave, 415.388.2500, toastmillvalley.com

NOVATO

BO CA PIZZ ERIA

Italian authentic pizza prepared with fresh mozzarella made in house daily and tomatoes imported from Italy. Other menu items include grilled

rosemary chicken sandwiches and braised beef short rib pappardelle. Weekly specials include 50 percent o all wines by the bottle on Wednesdays and half o draft beers on Thursdays. 454 Ignacio Blvd, 415.883.2302, bocapizzeria.com

CHIANTI CUCINA

Italian This cozy eatery features an array of Italian and American choices, including a penne pesto described by one Yelp contributor as a “hot creamy bowl of heaven.” Another standout menu item is the house-made ravioli cooked up by chef Edgar DeLon. 7416 Redwood Hwy, 415.878.0314, chiantinovato.com

H ILLTOP 1892

California Situated in a historic estate in Novato, with sweeping views, Hilltop 1892 o ers traditional favorites with a California flair. Open from breakfast through dinner, as well as Sunday brunch. 850 Lamont Ave, 415.893.1892, hilltop1892.com

Capellacci di Zucca at Il Fornaio in Corte Madera

Out & About / DINE

R USTIC BAKERY

California Organic mouthwatering pastries, breads and sandwiches are on the menu here, including Meyer lemon mascarpone danishes and a bacon, avocado and heirloom tomato sandwich with mesclun. 1497 Grant Ave, 415.878.4952, rusticbakery.com

TOAST American

Sister to the popular Mill Valley location, Toast Novato features outdoor dining and architecture by Stanley Saitowitz as well as great dishes by executive chef Michael Garcia. 5800 Nave Dr, 415.382.1144, toastnovato.com

WILDFOX American

Perched on the hillside o Highway 101, this rustic mesquite grill features smooth cosmos and other beverages and a menu full of comfort dishes like seafood risotto with bits of butternut squash. In the mood for a cigar? The restaurant has a lengthy list of options. 225 Alameda del Prado, 415.883.9125, wildfoxrestaurant.com

SAN ANSELMO

COM FORTS CAFE

American This cozy spot features local ingredients and serves breakfast, lunch and weekend brunch. Be sure to try the Philly cheesesteak and Chinese chicken salad, both classics. 335 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.9840, comfortscafe.com

L’A PPART R ESTO

French It’s the second Marin restaurant for the team behind Le Garage Bistro in Sausalito. Owners Bruno Denis and Olivier Souvestre are o ering a menu most Francophiles would be proud of, complete with items like smoked herring, bone marrow and cassoulet de legumes. 636 San Anselmo Ave, 415.256.9884, lappartresto.com

LOCOCO’S PIZZERIA

Italian Worth driving to from all over Marin, and it’s an easy place to meet up with friends. The pizza crust is divine, as is the house salad. Good spot to come with the entire family. Closed Mondays . 638 San Anselmo Ave, 415.453.1238, lococossananselmo.com

SW EETLI FE BAKERY AND CAFE American

With an emphasis on simplicity and tradition, the menu here includes fresh-baked pastries, sandwiches, salads and pizza.

SAN R AFAEL

A MICI’S EAST COAST PIZZERIA California

The array of pizzas includes gluten-free crust options and the new Siciliano, an enticing mix of mozzarella, slow-roasted garlic, sausage, broccoli and crushed red pepper flakes, sans tomato sauce. 1242 Fourth St, 415.455.9777, amicis.com

BROKEN DRUM

BREWERY & WOO D

GRILL American

O ering a wide array of eats, handcrafted and local beers and live music in one place, the Broken Drum is a hot spot for Rafael Theater Patrons (10 percent o entire bill with your ticket stub), passersby and regulars. You’ll find live music Friday and Saturday nights, tacos on Tuesdays and Bloody Marys all day on Sundays. 1132 Fourth St, 415.456.4677, brokendrum.com

M IKEY’S Cuban New chef Freddy Caamel has added a Cuban menu to the mix in this casual restaurant. Try “Mikey’s special” for breakfast, nachos for lunch, or the ropa vieja from the new Cuban menu for dinner. 783 Anderson Dr, 415.454.6453, eatatmikeys.com

M UL B ERRY STREET

PIZZERIA Italian

Chef Ted Rowe won first place in the Food Network Television Pizza Challenge with his Mushroom Lover’s Pizza — sautéed mushrooms in a creamy garlic sauce atop a fresh pizza crust. Located across from the Smith Ranch Road movie theaters, it’s a great place to grab dinner and a movie. 101 Smith Ranch Rd, 415.472.7272, mulberry-streetpizzeria.com

PANAMA HOTEL

R ESTAURANT

American The tropical garden is a prime dining spot for people-watching and taking advantage of San Rafael’s warm

weather. The Sunday brunch menu is a hit with kids, who can’t get enough of the Panama Wa e served with bananas, warm chocolate sauce and whipped cream. 4 Bayview St, 415.457.3993, panamahotel.com

PIZZA ORGASMICA

American Eat in or order a half-baked pizza to cook and enjoy at home. Visit the website for information about monthly specials such as Orgasmica Madness (tomato sauce, light mozzarella, roasted diced beets, caramelized onion, goat cheese, bacon, sausage and basil) and Patty’s Hot Mama (includes jalapeño ranch sauce and cauliflower). 812 Fourth St, 415.457.2337, pizzaorgasmica.com

SAN R AFAEL JOE’S

Italian Guido and Theresa Farina run this Marin institution, which has been famous for sophisticated yet casual Italian fare since 1947. Great for large parties, the dining room holds 240. The Pacific red snapper meunière and roast sirloin of beef are standouts. 931 Fourth St, 415.456.2425, srjoes.com

TAJ OF M ARIN Indian

Delicious North and South Indian cuisine, from the $8.95 lunch special to dinners that include goat curry, spinach, lentils and tandoori. Gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options available. 909 4th Street, 415.459.9555, tajofmarin.com

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THERESA & JOHNNY’S COMFOR TFOOD

American Cooking like Mom used to make. Drop by for eggs Benedict, tuna melts, co ee and some of the best milk shakes around. 817 Fourth St, 415.259.0182, theresa-and-johnnys.com

WHIPPER S NAPPER R ESTAURANT California/Caribbean

Owner and chef Bill Higgins serves reasonably priced and delicious tapas. Save room for delicious fish tacos and yummy chocolate bread pudding. On Sundays, try the $3 glasses of sangria. 1613 Fourth St, 415.256.1818, whipsnap.biz

VIN ANTICO Italian Chef Ed Vigil uses only seasonal ingredients that are organic and locally sourced. The weekly changing menu includes oysters, fresh salads, handmade pastas, seafood and

carefully crafted red meat dishes. Local artists’ work is featured each month on the walls. Happy hour is 5 to 6 weekdays. 881 Fourth St, 415.454.4492, vinantico.com

SAUSALITO

BAR BO CC E American Food tastes better, your company becomes funnier and issues of the day seem trivial when you’re dining on a bayside patio with fire pits and a bocce ball court. Throw in sourdough bread pizzas and a glass of wine, and you’ll see why this casual eatery, whose co-owner and executive chef is Robert Price of Buckeye and Bungalow 44, has become a local favorite. 1250 Bridgeway, 415.331.0555, barbocce.com

CI BO Cafe Husbandand-wife team Alfredo and Tera Ancona o er a menu of tarts, croissants, cookies, paninis and soups. Every dish is made from scratch with local and seasonal products. 1201 Bridgeway. 415.331.2426, cibosausalito.com

FENG N IAN Chinese

Busy at lunch and dinner, this spacious hangout has been a popular spot for wonton soup, pot stickers and daily specials for nearly two decades. For an indulgent treat order the Szechwan crispy calamari or honey-glazed walnut prawn. Free delivery. 2650 Bridgeway, 415.331.5300, fengnian.com

M URRAY CIRC LE

American Enjoy the sun on the deck of this Cavallo Point restaurant. Locals say they come back for the fresh seasonal

specials like wild sturgeon and Wolfe Ranch quail. 601 Murray Circle, 415.339.4750, cavallopoint.com

P OGGIO Italian A great place to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a night out. Executive chef Peter McNee cooks up delicious Northern Italian cuisine using fresh and local ingredients, including produce from the nearby Poggio chef garden. 777 Bridgeway, 415.332.7771, poggiotratoria.com

SALITO’S Seafood In a well-known location on Richardson Bay that was most recently home to Paradise Bay, Salito’s features a new look and casual ambience. Enjoy a Nick and Nora’s Cocktail Special or a signature dish, including whole roasted Dungeness crab, housemade kettle bread served with Straus butter and sizzling iron-skillets of mussels. 1200 Bridgeway, 415.331.3226, salitoscrabhouse.com

S PINNAKER Seafood Chef Phil Collins excels at preparing seafood, and it shows in the beautiful plate presentations. Set right on the water, this romantic spot is great for an evening occasion. 100 Spinnaker Dr, 415.332.1500, thespinnaker.com

S USHI R AN Japanese

Small plates are just big enough to share, the traditional sushi is melt-in-yourmouth good, and the wine, cocktail and sake lists keep the pickiest barfly well satisfied. 107 Caledonia St, 415.332.3620, sushiran.com

SW EE TG INGER

Japanese Owner and chef Edna and Wayne Chiang know their way around good sushi. Try fresh sashimi, the classic Dragon Roll, 49er’s Roll or Rock ’N Roll, or be adventurous and have Wayne whip you up something o the menu. Good sake and a comfortable setting round out the reasonably priced meal. 400 Caledonia St, 415.332.1683, sweet gingersausalito.com

TIBURON

CAPRI CE California

Book the private party room for large groups or just relax in what one Yelp reviewer called “the perfect romantic dinner spot.” Midweek take advantage of the restaurant’s wellpriced three-course dinners for less than $25. 2000 Paradise Dr, 415.435.3400, thecaprice.com

M ILANO Italian

Located in the Cove Shopping Center, this family-owned neighborhood spot is known for its pasta and friendly service. A good place to take the kids — or catering option for your next birthday party. 1 Blackfield Dr, 415.388.9100, tiburonmilano.com

SALT & P EPPER

American This sun-filled, hardwoodfloored one room restaurant with bluecheckered tablecloths is a local favorite. Popular items on chef Abraham Monterroso’s menu include scallops, rib-eye steak, a beef burger and traditional crab cakes with jalapeno dipping sauce. 38 Main Street, 415.435.3594

S ERVINO R ISTORANTE

Italian Executive Chef Wesley Shaw cooks up an array of rustic Italian dishes, including house-made pastas, wood oven pizzas and seasonal specialties. A member of Marin Organic and one of Marin’s first eateries to become certified as a green business. Check the website for the live music schedule. 9 Main St, 415.435.2676, servino.com

TI B URON TAV ERN

California The atmosphere here is truly enchanting, with two outdoor patios, two indoor fireplaces and candlelit tables at dinner. No item is more than $20, including the steak, with entrées falling in the $14 to $18 range. Happy hour is Monday through Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. 1651 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.5996, tiburontavern.com

WEST MARIN

DRAKES BEACH CAFE

American If you’re OK with the long drive, you can’t beat the view and the fresh local ingredients used to make the burgers, salads and soups at this casual spot (Inverness). Walk on the beach after lunch. 1 Drakes Beach Rd, 415.669.1297, drakescafe.com

NICK’S COVE American

Large windows open the 130-seat eatery to the picturesque Tomales Bay and Hog Island. Menu consists of the freshest available local seafood, oysters and bounty from nearby West Marin farms, including Bodega Bay D ungeness

Spinach and G oat Cheese Quiche at Champagne Cafe in Corte Madera and M ill Valley

crab cake and Tomales Bay clam chowder (Marshall). 23240 Hwy 1, 415.663.1033, nickscove.com

OLEMA I NN California

One of the most charming settings around, this inn and restaurant is a great destination lunch spot for a Sunday drive, or dinner every night. (Olema). 10000 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.663.9559, theolemainn.com

OSTERIA STELLINA

California Whether it’s to cap o a day of hiking or celebrate a romantic anniversary, Osteria Stellina suits any occasion. The menu is Italian-inspired using organic, local ingredients. If you’re looking for something unusual

try the goat shoulder, a favorite of locals and tourists alike. Don’t leave without indulging in the standout lemon ice cream sandwich (Point Reyes). 11285 Hwy 1, 415.663.9988, osteriastellina.com

PINE CO NE DINER

American Joannie Kwit has re-created the ultimate neighborhood diner. Vintage china and homemade curtains complement the eclectic but homey menu featuring local fare. (Point Reyes Station). 60 Fourth St, 415.663.1536, pineconediner.com

R AN CHONIC ASI O

American Known for live music and an extensive menu featuring everything from

dungeness crab burgers to walnut-crusted goat cheese. 1 Old Rancheria (Nicasio) Rd, 415.662.2219, ranchonicasio.com

SAN D DO LLAR

American Enjoy live music along with local barbecued oysters and New England clam chowder. Sunny deck is great in the afternoon (Stinson). 3458 Shoreline Hwy, 415.868.0434, stinson beachrestaurant.com

S URFERS GRILL

American Built right out on Stinson Beach, this casual lunch spot o ers up tasty fresh organic salads alongside corn dogs, burgers and fries. Stinson Beach Park, Hwy 1, 415.868.1777, surfersgrill.com

Green Garlic Sformato at Poggio in Sausalito

Deals on Meals

Enjoy local restaurants and save 30 percent on meals.Check out the participating restaurantsin our “Deals on Meals” section and experience big savings.

Spend only $35 for a dining certificate worth $50. Simply go to marinmagazine.com/ dineout to purchase a dining certificate from a restaurant in this section and we will mail it to you. Try a new restaurant or purchase a certificate for an old favorite. A perfect gift for any occasion. Limited supply each month. Dine local — save big time!

From family-night to date-night and special events, Brick & Bottle brings a fresh approach to California cuisine. Enjoy favorites such as thincrust pizzas, Mary’s chicken, braised short ribs, organic salads, and healthy Kids’ meals. Join us at the bar for lite bites and lively conversation.

Brick & Bottle

55 Tamal Vista Blvd

The Caprice is in its 50th year, earning seven Open Table Diners’ Choice awards including three number one awards for Marin County. Come try our rack of lamb and pumpkin croquettes and finish with cherry-ricotta beignets. Join us for a memorable dinner.

415.924.3366

Corte Madera, CA brickandbottle.com

Chianti Cucina, a family friendly Italian restaurant in Novato, welcomes you to our family, where great food, service and atmosphere await you. We invite you to our table, offering a casual and memorable experience. At Chianti Cucina, you’ll feel like a neighborhood regular. OpenTable.com Diner’s Choice Winner 2011.

Chianti Cucina

7416 Redwood Blvd

The Caprice Restaurant 2000 Paradise Drive

415.435.3400 Tiburon, CA thecaprice.com

Frantoio tantalizes your taste buds with contemporary Italian cuisine. Family owned since 1995, the restaurant emphasizes fresh, sustainable and organic ingredients serving locally produced fruit, vegetables, seafood, and meats. Enjoy fantastic salads, housemade pasta, wood fired pizza, grilled entrees, and decadent desserts in an elegant yet relaxed setting.

415.878.0314 Novato, CA chiantinovato.com

Specialties include mesquite-grilled steaks and fish , house-made pastas, fresh salads and soups, a wide variety of desserts, and fresh baked bread along with artisan cocktails and a Wine Spectator award-winning wine list. Each month, a special regional dinner menu is featured. Groups of all sizes are welcome!

Il Fornaio

223 Corte Madera Town Ctr

Frantoio Ristorante 152 Shoreline Highway

415.289.5777 Mill Valley, CA frantoio.com

and special wine events all

415.927.4400

Corte Madera, CA ilfornaio.com

trains leave at 11:30 am and return at 2:30 pm. Dinner trains leave at 6:30 pm and return at 9:30 pm. Napa Valley Wine Train 1275

800.427.4124 Napa, CA winetrain.com

The Napa Valley Wine Train is one of Napa’s most distinctive restaurants. Enjoy gourmet dining, exclusive Napa Valley winery tours,

aboard beautifully restored antique rail cars. Lunch

Rickey’s Restaurant & Bar transports you back to the long vanished style of relaxed dining while enjoying first class meals in our warm and comfortable dining room or poolside during the summer. Executive Chef Noe Martinez serves California and American specialties featuring local products.

Rickey’s Restaurant & Bar

250 Entrada Drive

415.883.9477

Novato, CA rickeysrestaurant.com

Built in the fifties and recently remodeled, Salito’s has a long historyformerly Zack’s, Margaritaville and Paradise Bay, the new interior includes a marble oyster bar, lots of light and great food. The deck sits above Richardson Bay and offers views of San Francisco’s spectacular skyline, Tiburon and the passing boats.

Salito’s

1200 Bridgeway

415.331.3226

Sausalito, CA salitoscrabhouse.com

Come visit Marin County’s newest neighborhood eatery, Tiburon Tavern. Featuring elevated comfort cuisine paired with Northern California’s freshest cuisine and coastal influences, this resident public house will tempt you with its farm-to-table dining approach and excite you with its chic gastropub vibe.

Tiburon

RISTOBAR is the destination for rustic Italian fare & artisanal pizza. Enjoy a casual, comfortable neighborhood setting while conversing, eating, & drinking with friends and family. Indulge in the best products & practices of Italy with the bounty of fresh ingredients available in the bay area. Don’t miss our 15/30 Tuesdays & select any bottle from our 15 select wines for only $30!

RISTOBAR

2300 Chestnut Street

415.923.6464

San Francisco, CA ristobarsf.com

The Counter offers all-natural, humanely-raised beef and 312,120+ combinations to build your own burger. The Counter is a great place for family, friends, great music and a full bar. Voted best burger in Bay Area by SFGate.com readers on Baylist 2011. ‘LIKE’ us on www.facebook.com/ TheCounterCorteMadera !

The Counter 201 Town Center

415.924.7000 Corte Madera, CA thecounterburger.com

Tres Hombres Long Bar and Grill is now offering a Sunday Champagne Brunch Buffet. Bottomless champagne with a hot and cold buffet of both Mexican and traditional brunch items. Also included are Tamales bay oysters

On the Scene

SNAPSHOTS FROM SPECIAL EVENTS IN MARIN AND SAN FRANCISCO EDITED BY D ANIEL JEWETT

MARIN OPEN STUDIOS

Community art was celebrated at the Marin Open Studios preview gala on April 28. Guests sampled wine and small bites while getting a sneak peek at work by more than 250 artists.

GREAT CHEFS & WINERIES More than 50 area restaurants provided gourmet dishes and fine wine for attendees who danced the night away at this April 21 event benefiting Lifehouse. The festivities were hosted by Huey Lewis and Bud E. Luv.

Kendra and B rian B uddell

B ud E . Luv

Kay Carlson, Julia Dan and Stephanie S

Simone and JJ Davis

Georgette Osserman, Leslie Allen and Anna Rockwell

Scott Jones, Nancy Dow Moody and Julie Jones

DWELL+MARIN MAGAZINE MEET THE ARCHITECTS

NIG HT Architects responsible for the best in residential design described the inspirations for their ideas at this kickoff event for the Modern Home Tour the weekend of April 28–29.

GENE HILLER’S A NNUAL PARTY Sausalito’s Gene Hiller boutique held its annual party benefiting the American Cancer Society. Guests were treated to a fashion show, food and drinks and music from Italian tenor Pasquale Esposito.

MARIN COUNTY CHAPTER NATIONAL CHARITY LEAGUE This 2012 graduating class — mothers and daughters who completed the league’s volunteering program — put in more than 1,600 hours of their time over five years to help local charities.

Gary and Carol Cebrian and Wayne Kaleck

Sam and Roya Jabbar

Front row: Isabel Flax, Caitlin Firmage, Gita Isola- Henry, Cate N eukranz, Charlotte Jarman. M iddle row: Kylie Smith, Anne Vetter, Leigh Kinney, M adelyn R yan, E mma Tomaszewski. Back row: Paige Lyons, Sarah Jarman, S arah Christensen, Kira Rosenbaum.

William Cooney, Peter Rogers and Bob Hodas

Ann Mulroy, CEo, owner of Stonetree Golf Club

StoneTree Golf Club features a stunning Craftsman-style clubhouse, the firstclass Black Point Bar & Grill and an 18-hole championship golf course. Our facilities are open to the public and we are committed to fostering personal relationships with each guest. We strive to provide the Bay Area with an unparalleled golf experience as well as an unforgettable venue for events.

What is your competitive edge?

We are blessed with Marin County’s unique natural beauty.

Briefly describe your business philosophy.

We employ friendly and knowledgeable staff who provide our guests with a wonderful experience, whether that is a round of golf or a wedding.

Describe your dream client/customer.

We are open to the public and welcome anyone who appreciates and respects our facilities and staff. Our hope is that people share their StoneTree experience with family and friends.

Which product or service that you offer is your favorite?

I love the food at the Black Point Bar & Grill.

What makes your work worthwhile?

A thank-you note from a bride following her wedding is always a thrill.

What is the funniest thing that’s happened recently in your business?

People sometimes do really silly things in golf carts.

What part of your business drives you crazy?

Mother Nature heavily influences our course conditions and playability, so I am certainly conscious of Marin’s notoriously unpredictable weather.

STONETREE GOLF CLUB, 9 STONETREE LANE, NOVATO,

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Marin Home

FROM TOURS AND MAKEOVERS TO DECORATIVE DETAILS AND REALTOR INSIGHTS

SOLD ON SUNRISE POINTE

A reunited couple revels in the natural beauty of Mill

by PJ b remier • Photos by tim P orter

Valley.

WHEN E D E LLINGSON and Karen Miller first met as teenagers on the Peninsula, they quickly became high school sweethearts. Like so many young people, they parted ways when they went o to college. Unlike so many others, however, they remained friends over the years and finally reunited a couple of years ago after they each lost a spouse.

A fter K aren sold her Kentfield home, the couple kept an eye on the market for a house to buy together. I n November, after spotting a newspaper ad for a S unrise Pointe condominium open house on S helter B ay, they thought just maybe they had found it.

“I had known about this complex for 10 years and liked everything about it,” Miller says about the Mill Valley location. “We saw the condo, fell in love with it, went to the grocery store, looked at the condo again and closed escrow five days later.”

Their two-bedroom, two-bath condo has cathedral ceilings, good light and views of Mount Tamalpais and Richardson Bay. “You have everything you need or want in the large units,” Miller says. The complex “is private with beautiful landscaping, and, because we’re on the water, we see birds and pelicans, geese and ducks, something new every day.”

Because we’re on the water, we see birds and pelicans, geese and ducks, something new every day.

The transition has been easy for Ellingson, a San Mateo County native. “The more I live in Marin, the more I like it,” he says. “The open space, the birds, it’s grown on me. A nd, it’s a beautiful complex.”

“We love it more all the time,” Miller adds. “It’s like living at a resort; it really is just fantastic.”

That pleases realtor A. Dean Jones, the listing and selling agent for their condo. “It was an honor working with them,” he says. “I was romanced by the fact that Ed and Karen took a 45-year hiatus from each other and found each other again. It gives hope that good things can happen when you least expect it.” m

Opener: A walking path visible from one of the balconies. This page, top: The view from Sunrise Pointe. Above: M iller and Ellingson with dog Joy.

THE DETAILS

WHERE THEY PURCHASED Sunrise Pointe, Mill Valley

WHAT THEY BOUGHT A view condominium

LISTING AND SELLING AGENT

A. Dean Jones, Decker Bullock Sotheby’s International Realty

STATS Average cost per square foot for homes in neighborhood: $400

Clockwise from top: left: Decorative items in the breakfast nook window; a painted folk art mailbox; the family room; a framed French poster; closets and the master bath.

A Blank Canvas

A garage is more than the place where you park your car or store your camping gear — in Marin the doors to these structures often make a big statement.

Email a photo of yourself standing by your garage door to letters@marinmagazine. com with your phone number and address, and you’ll be entered in a drawing to win a $50 gift certificate for the Spinnaker Restaurant in Sausalito.

PORTER

PHOTOS BY TIM

APR On the Go

Laurel Grove Avenue, Ross 5bd/6.5ba plus guest house. One of the finest homes in Ross. South facing with Mt. Tam views from nearly every room. Exquisitely updated, old-world craftsmanship, gracefully proportioned rooms, stunning grounds.

117LaurelGrove.com

$9,750,000

Donna Goldman

415.509.2427

Download the Alain Pinel Realtors app to access the most accurate and up to date real estate information directly on your mobile device.

Scan the QR Code to be directed to your device’s app store, or text “apr” to 87778 for more instructions.

Summit Avenue, Mill Valley

New Price! Stunning San Francisco views from most rooms, best Mill Valley weather, quality in every detail. Built in 2004, 3754+/sf, 5bd/3.5ba with all the bells! Private, sunny, flat lawns.

388Summit.com

$2,775,000

Michelle Klurstein

415.250.0895

Culloden Park Road, San Rafael

Grand, gated estate in the coveted Forbes neighborhood. Enormous value for 4500+/-sf, 6bd/4ba, renovated home on a large private lot backing to open space. Spectacular Mt. Tam views, all day sun, gorgeous gardens.

88CullodenPark.com

$2,195,000

Stephanie Lamarre

415.806.3176

Butterfield Road, San Anselmo

Comfortable, elegant, 4bd/3ba home with an amazing, resort-like setting featuring a beautiful pool, huge lawn, sport court and privacy. Close to San Domenico School and Sleepy Hollow “Club House.”

BestOfSleepyHollow.com

$2,195,000

Craig Burnett

415.847.8616

Mariposa Court, Tiburon

Set atop a grassy knoll with stunning water and City views, this custom-built Mediterranean home has privacy and tranquility. 4bd/4.5ba, 5200+/-sf and fabulous rooms for entertaining.

7Mariposa.com

Price Upon Request

Toni Abruzzo-Ramirez

415.827.8280

Terrace Avenue, San Rafael

Oak studded, private and serene. Beautifully rebuilt in 2001. 5bd/4.5ba, 4691+/-sf on over .75 acre. Fabulous finishes and quality with an abundance of sun and excellent indoor/ outdoor entertaining opportunities.

$1,649,000

Marlys Hooper 415.717.8200

Meadow Ridge Drive, Corte Madera

Warm, light-filled, 4bd/3.5ba contemporary. Kitchen with 6-burner Viking range and Sub Zero refrigerator, wine room, oak hardwood floors and great room with easy access to patio and rear yard. Serene views.

$1,579,000

David Doyle 415.215.3169

Throckmorton Drive, Mill Valley

Willis Polk-architectural gem built around 1900. Roam in over 4500sf. 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths plus office and au-pair. Klyce-built quality, high ceilings and large, sunny lot near downtown.

ChrisDeNike.com

Price Upon Request

Chris DeNike 415.250.8052

Marion Avenue, Mill Valley

Ideally situated in a park-like setting. Four bedrooms, 2.5 baths plus office, stunning kitchen, great room with walls of windows, tremendous master, nice lawn and various play areas.

ChrisDeNike.com

Price Upon Request Chris DeNike 415.250.8052

Be Brody Proudly P sents

E14 Hotaling Court, Kent eld

xquisitely poised on a verdant two-thirds +/- acre parcel, it is here that Steve Wisenbaker, Architect for 14 Hotaling, created this extraordinary home. This true Georgian Colonial residence is a majestic, park-like estate with views of Mt. Tamalpais and the S outhern Marin Ridgeline. Custom-built for the current owner with incredible privacy, it has six bedrooms, eight full and two half-baths. Expansive level lawns and a classic entry greet you. The flow of this commanding estate suits all.

The kitchen and great room open to the main patio and garden. The kitchen’s state-of-the-art appliances include a Charvet Caumartin range. On the upper level a room with a wall of windows and slate floors opens to the pool terrace. The master bedroom suite features commissioned artwork by Robert Stout and a vintage ceramic tub. There is a spa-sized gym, an executive-sized home office, a study and a separate maid’s quarters. No detail left behind, this home features state-of-the-art technology throughout, an auto court for 7 cars and underground parking for 2 cars.

■ 8864+/-sf plus a 520+/-sf garage

■ Heart of the home great room/kitchen opening to flat lawn

■ Pool, gazebo, hot tub and changing rooms

■ 6 bedrooms, 8 full baths, 2 half-baths

■ Library, formal dining room, office, gym, shop

■ Ross schools

Offered for Private

with Beth Brody at $10,900,000

Buying real estate is more than just a lifestyle decision it’s an indisputably important financial decision that impacts every other part of your financial life. Because of the lasting implications, Opes Advisors developed a new approach to mortgages. We’ll work with you to structure a mortgage that fits with both your lifestyle ambitions and your financial goals.

1100 Larkspur Landing Circle, Suite 108 Larkspur, CA 94939 opesadvisors.com

From left to right, back row: Melanie Victor-Smith, Jeffrey Smith (Branch Manager). Front row: Marian Jung, Judy Stern, Karen Burrous.

Celebrating the Extraordinary Agents Who Recently Joined Us!

We welcome the top agents of today and tomorrow that have joined Decker Bullock Sotheby’s Inter national Realty recently. They can now offer their clients the best global brand, international exposure, and luxury services for properties at every price point.

I am thrilled to be working with the best agents in the business. If you would like to buy or sell a home, or are an agent considering a move up, please contact me at heidipay@sothebysrealty.com or 415.384.4008. Heidi Pay

Tweed Terrace, San Rafael $1,279,000 Contemporary Loch Lomond View Home

Spear Street, #20A, San Francisco

nfinity Tower Modern Condo

Gorgeous Novato Craftsman

Badger Court, Novato

Pacheco Valle uxury state

cul-de-sac www.31santiago.com

Rare opportunity to build your dream home on one of the last available buildable beach front lots on Mar East. Imagine front row seats to the ever changing landscape of the San Francisco Bay, from Raccoon Straits and Angel Island to the twinkling lights of the East bay and beyond; this is the back drop against which you will create the house of your dreams.

www.mareastbeachfront.com

$1,450,000

429 Elm Avenue, Larkspur, Fantastic opportunity to build your dream home, in Larkspur’s desirable Palm Hill neighborhood.

In the Valley of Nicasio

Sleepy Hollow Luxury Living

Offered at $1,750,000

Dramatically sited on over 20 acres this 3 bedroom 3 bath contemporary style home offers breathtaking 360 degree vistas, privacy and solitude in an stunning and lush setting in the exclusive Valley of Nicasio . . . sought after for its unparalleled beauty and privacy.

$1,895,000

Sleek and beautifully renovated this 4 bedroom 4 bath Sleepy Hollow home offers nearly 3500 sq. ft. of living space in a rare, one-level “U” shaped design framing a verdant courtyard that offers 180 degree views of the oak studded hills and the bay. JUST LISTED

Striking Bay Front Modern

This stunning classic modern style home is perfectly sited on a ½ acre waterfront lot and offers captivating Sausalito, San Francisco and bay views from every room. Boasting approximately 6130 sq. ft. of grand living space, 4 spacious master suites with en suite bathrooms, 1.5 additional bathrooms, the property is accented throughout by floor to ceiling windows, dramatic vaulted ceilings, and sophisticated finishes. Architecturally sleek design features include vertical grain, tongue and groove, western red cedar siding, stainless steel trim, and extensive patio stone work.

The open floor plan is perfect for relaxing, entertaining, and sociali ing. The chef’s kitchen features top of the line stainless appliances, granite counters and backsplash, large center work island, custom cabinetry, and opens to the sunny

breakfast alcove. Formal living room with fireplace with stainless surround and skylights opens to the family room with media center. The formal dining room is surrounded by expansive decks for alfresco dining. Gracious master suite with fireplace, separate dressing areas, glass-enclosed seating area, and spacious master bath.

Outdoor lap pool, spa and patio, and 5 decks, are ideal for and captivating the elements of nature. From the pool, which feels suspended over the bay, you can exercise or relax taking in the tranquility of the water, mountains, and sun. Southwest facing exposure is optimal for all day sun. Previously approved plans for Bay access for small watercraft.

at $6,450,000

Penthouse

Villa Marin penthouse featuring 2 bedrooms plus den (or 3rd bedroom), 2 bathrooms, and every amenity for sophisticated and luxurious living. Villa Marin is a premier retirement community offering 100% ownership, comprehensive medical care, security, transportation, on and off-site entertainment and excursions, and conveniently located near shopping and restaurants. www.VillaMarinPenthouse.com

MARIN COUNTY MARKET TRENDS AT A GLANCE

(Single-family Homes)

Jan-Apr 12

Jan-Apr 11 Median

Average and Median prices were flat for the first 4 months of 2011 and 2012. The number of units sold increased 19.2 % from the same period last year. Homes in the lower price range ($400,000 to $600,000) have been receiving multiple offers on most occasions. For Marin as a whole the percent of homes in contract is 44. This is the highest percentage in the past 2 years. There is still a lack of inventory and we are hopeful that sellers will agree that now is a great time to sell.

Ron is a member of the Marin Platinum Group and Top Agent network, an exclusive group of the top agents in Marin County.

Ronald Parks

Broker and CPA

415.297.9000 ronparks@sothebysrealty.com

Modern Design and Character 75 Poplar

Kentfield

at

This mid-century modern residence is located on one of Kentfield’s most prestigious streets. The indoor/outdoor layout offers access to decks, a sunny patio and yard from nearly every room. Three bedrooms, two bathrooms, the property is accented throughout by large picture windows featuring Mt. Tam views, skylights that cascade great natural light, and recessed and custom light fixtures. An incredible opportunity and value, located in a coveted neighborhood amongst multi-million dollar properties.

5 Contiguous Lots… $23,500,000

Lot 1: Uniquely located high on the hill, ±2.35 acres… $2,940,000

Lot 2: Located in a natural clearing high on the hill, ±3.21 acres… $3,990,000

Lot 3: Knoll-top location, ±3.28 acres, with access to sandy beach… $4,990,000

Lot 4: Private and lush, ±2.62 acres, with access to sandy beach… $3,590,000

Lot 5: The last and only level, private, multi-acre parcel on Tiburon Peninsula, with sandy beach, fully entitled and approved for development. Approximately 7.5 level acres, with its tidelands, grassy meadows, and some 300 linear feet of extraordinary sandy beach waterfront, situated on one of the most prestigious and sought-after shorelines in California. Potential for gated estate, with winding drive, 8,750 square foot residence, including 3+ car garage, with au pair, pier and boat dock. Truly unprecedented, last-in-a-lifetime opportunity… $7,990,000

Spacious light-filled contemporary with captivating views of San Francisco Bay, the Richmond Bridge and beyond. Soaring two-story foyer, stunning glass-walled living room with vaulted 21-foot ceiling, formal dining room with intimate fireplace and gorgeous kitchen/family area with large granite-topped island and breakfast bar, and high-ceiling family room with fireplace. Study and large game/rec room with access to level lawn and patio complete the entry level. Upstairs level comprises the large master with fireplace and separate study, great closet/dressing area and lavish bath with steam room, sauna, jetted tub and separate stall shower. Three additional bedrooms, one en-suite, and two with Jack and Jill bath. Private and quiet outdoor living, gated and fenced with saline pool and spa, level lawns and patios, and meticulously manicured grounds and gardens. Approx. 6,000 sq. ft. in the main residence with four bedrooms and three and one-half baths, plus the separate, approx. 600 sq. ft. guest apartment above the four-car garage… $6,295,000

Gated and private, with sweeping views of the entire San Francisco skyline and Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito waterfront through Mt. Tam, this impressive home of over 7,000 sq. ft. of formal and informal, separate and private space, is ideal for large-family living, yet highly suitable for grand-scale entertaining. Large, formal living room with access to the San Francisco-facing brick terrace with fountain and built-in barbecue. Relaxing viewside cocktail bar, wonderful kitchen with onyx-topped island and breakfast bar, and adjacent family area with fireplace and huge view-side deck. Large master suite with bay-window seating area, dressing area/walk-in closet and huge marble bath with shower in his, and jetted tub in hers; three additional en-suite bedrooms grace this level. Downstairs level with study, gym, club room with cigar deck, temp-controlled wine cellar with tasting room, large en-suite bedroom, and separate au pair quarters with kitchenette. Total of six bedrooms, eight full and two half-baths, enclosed garages for five cars and additional motor court parking… $6,275,000

One of the original Ross homes, now beautifully improved and restored to its original grandeur. Gated, private, and situated on one acre of beautifully manicured lawns and gardens, this home combines wonderful family living and opportunity for gracious entertaining. Formal living and dining rooms and sunny kitchen with informal dining, large island, butler’s pantry and Miele, Viking and Sub-Zero appliances. Adjacent family area and den with French doors to pool and lawn area, perfect for indoor-outdoor living and entertaining. Upper level with three large guest bedrooms, hall bath, and wonderful master suite with lavish bath and balcony overlooking the pool and lawn area. Downstairs level with large recreation room with separate entrance and full bath serves as the ideal “hang-out” room. Wonderful outdoor living with sparkling saltwater pool and spa, sunny patios, barbecue, level lawns and gardens and the majestic oaks. Four large bedrooms, three and one half baths, beautiful kitchen/family area, study, rec room and stunning outdoor living… $7,495,000

THE BOWMAN GROUP

127 Cypress Avenue, Kentfield 127cypress.com Call for Pricing

Beautiful 4BD, 3.5BA home in desirable Del Mesa neighborhood in Ross School District.

12 Woodside Way, Ross 12woodside.com Call for Pricing

Charming 2+BD, 3BA home in desirable Old Ross right next to downtown and Ross School.

15 Morrison Road, Ross 15morrison.com • Offered at $5,500,000

World-class views and a great opportunity to create your own dream house on 5+/- acres.

57 Bridge Road, Ross 57bridge.com

Offered at $2,695,000

Gated 4+BD, 3.5BA home in desirable Old Ross near downtown and acclaimed Ross School.

6 Duff Lane, Ross 6dufflane.com • Offered at $5,295,000

Gorgeous 5BD, 4BA estate with swimming pool on its own private lane near downtown.

9 Bridge Road, Kentfield 9bridgeroad.com

Offered at $1,995,000

Enchanting vintage 4BD, 3BA home near schools and Woodland’s Market in Kentfield School District.

231 Poplar Drive, Kentfield 231poplar.com • Offered at $2,655,000

Stunning 3BD, 2.5BA East Coast style home in Del Mesa neighborhood in Ross School District.

57 BRIDGE ROAD | ROSS, CALIFORNIA 4+ bedrooms, 3.5 baths | $2,695,000

This elegant four bedroom, three and one-half bath home sits on a very private, gated lot in the flats of coveted Old Ross near downtown and the distinguished and recently-remodeled Ross School. With high ceilings, spacious rooms and spectacular views, it is a rare find with much to offer. It is located near many of Marin’s outdoor recreation areas including biking/hiking/walking paths and features a black-bottom pool, a hot tub, well-manicured and terraced gardens and raised planter beds, which could easily be changed to be a spacious level lawn.

CO LISTED BY

9 BRIDGE ROAD | KENTFIELD, CALIFORNIA 4 bedrooms, 3 baths | $1,995,000

Walk through the gate and you’ve entered a magical hideaway – a perfect blend of old and new in the heart of desirable Kentfield. This stately four bedroom, three bath home dates back to 1906 and has been lovingly cared for, expanded, remodeled and enjoyed by only three families through the years. Located in the sought-after Kentfield School District near Marin’s renowned outdoor recreation areas.

STUNNING ROSS RESIDENCE | 29 UPPER ROAD, ROSS, CALIFORNIA

4 bedrooms, 3-1/2 baths | $3,698,000

Located on one of the most prestigious streets in Ross, 29 Upper Road contains the rare combination of desirable hillside living: views, privacy, a level yard and pool. Situated on over two acres with commanding views of Mt. Tamalpais and the bay and bordering open space, this residence offers a premier lifestyle. This property is a serene retreat and yet is only minutes away from Ross school, Phoenix Lake, and the town of Ross.

This spacious house offers natural light and views from every room. Decks on both levels encourage an indoor/outdoor flow. Four fireplaces, a three-car garage, wine cellar, and ample storage and parking add to the appeal of this sophisticated house. www.29UpperRoad.com

EXTRAORDINARY ROSS HOME | ROSS, CALIFORNIA

6 bedrooms, 4-1/2 baths | $7,750,000

Located at the end of a tree-lined, private lane, this gorgeous estate provides the best of modern design with the warmth and beauty of a traditional Ross home. A gracious, circular drive welcomes you to the six bedroom, four and one-half bath home which is perfectly situated on a level sunny, one-acre lot.

The exquisite gardens were designed by the Master Gardener owner and were showcased in the 2005 Annual Ross Garden Tour. The natural beauty of the mature gardens, expansive lawns, sparkling pool and outdoor fireplace create a secluded, park-like setting. Indoor and outdoor spaces come together perfectly and are ideal for entertaining large groups or relaxing with family and friends. Conveniently located within blocks of the highly-regarded Ross School, Ross Common and the shops and restaurants of San Anselmo. www.RossCountryHome.com

DESIGNWITH BEAUTIFUL VIEWS | 400 VISTA LINDA, MILL

5 bedrooms, 3 baths | $2,195,000

Situated above Mill Valley Golf Course, this home once belonged to the Hemingway family and has now been remodeled and upgraded to a modern/contemporary/urban masterpiece. Five bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a small office- all on one level. High ceilings, dramatic walls of glass and numerous skylights offer spectacular views. For more information visit www.400VistaLinda.com

5 bedrooms, 4 baths | $3,195,000

This lovely Hamptons-style home has 5BR, 4BA and a very family-friendly floor plan with game room, skylights, high ceilings. Extensively remodeled and upgraded. Outdoor living space; sport court, waterfall, spa, vegetable garden, mature landscaping. A very rare opportunity. For more information visit www.35VascoCourt.com

3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths | $1,995,000

Charming cottage located on the Belvedere Lagoon. Lot is over 8000 sq. ft. and has a private boat dock. There are lovely gardens front and rear, plus expansive views of the water, hills of Tiburon and beyond.

MODERN ARCHITECTURE

5 bedrooms, 5.5 baths | Price to be Determined

Brand-new home, west-facing on the Island. Almost an acre with privacy, level gardens. Stunning contemporary, tremendous interior volume and exquisite level of finish and detail.

icasio alley state, 10 afranchi, icasio • ffered at $1,595,000 10 afranchi.com Approximately 2.4 flat acres with lawns, gated orchard and wonderful English gardens. Valley vistas spanning 360 degrees. Private Homeowners Association. Close to Nicasio Square and Rancho Nicasio. Three bedrooms and three baths plus separate guest quarters. Forty-five minutes to San Francisco’s Financial District.

Jay Patterson

415.308.0371

jpatterson@fhallen.com

DRE: #00243412

Avril Couris

415.828.9495

acouris@fhallen.com

DRE: #00589046

546 Biscayne Drive, San Rafael • $5,6 5,000

Magnificent gated estate on approximately 2.4 acres bordering open space. Generous floor plan with 6 BR and 5.5 BA. A backyard paradise with pool, outdoor kitchen, covered patio and play area.

Alva Falla afalla@fhallen.com

415.518.1930

AlvaFalla.com

DRE: #00628712

96 ark Drive, San nselmo • rice u on re uest

611 Biscayne Drive, San Rafael • $ ,645,000

Impressive estate offering a spacious, versatile floor plan of approximately 8,000 sq ft with 5 BR, 5 full and 2 half baths. Large backyard with pool and guest house with bedroom and bath.

96 arkDrive.com

This extraordinary, historical San Anselmo estate property is located on almost one full acre in Calumet Park. Built in 1892 and designed by American Craftsman architect Ernest Coxhead, the three-story, 6,900 square feet home has been meticulously cared for by the same family for 49 years. Features include 6 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, formal living room and dining room with heart redwood detailed paneling, stunning bay window, six fireplaces, hardwood floors, and a lovely kitchen with deck leading out to beautifully landscaped private gardens with pool, patio, and lawns. Truly a one-of-a-kind property.

Karyn Erickson Battenberg

415.525.9901

kbattenberg@fhallen.com

DRE: #01729678

412 Biscayne Drive, San Rafael • $2,695,000

412Biscayne.com

The essence of elegance. Every designer detail selected with a discerning artist’s eye. An impressive dream house of approx. 4800’ on a beautiful 2/3 acre adjacent to open space. From the formal entry to the resort style yard with pool and spa, every amenity has been provided. With 4BR/4BA and 2 half baths, library, office, family room, breakfast room, dressing room, formal living and dining rooms, gourmet kitchen, outdoor heated dining area and 3-car garage, this home must be seen to be experienced. Strikingly beautiful, this home is a treasure to cherish. You’ll love coming home.

81 Hanken Drive, Kentfield • $2,595,000

81Hanken.com

This dramatic, contemporary home was designed to harmonize with the outdoors. Expansive and versatile, this 6BR/6BA home offers a grand living room, dining room with wall of windows, family room plus media room, wine room, pool, separate art studio/pool house, private deck, sauna and Mt Tam view lawn. Just steps from The Priory Tennis and Swim Club, you will appreciate this coveted cul-de-sac location with easy access to award-winning schools. All the amenities of a fine resort can be enjoyed in the comfort and privacy of this unique home.

Judy M Smith 415.215.6789

jsmith@fhallen.com

A Local Approach To Lending.

Terra Mortgage Banking

John Wilson, Larkspur (415) 968-5000

Terra Mortgage Banking

Larkspur Headquarters (415) 925-9900

FHA lender

Super-Jumbo Loans to $5 Million TerraMortgageBanking.com

In our three years of operation, Terra Mortgage Banking has grown to be one of the largest residential lenders in Marin County. How? By taking a local approach to real estate lending.

That’s John Wilson in the picture above. John is the newest addition to our team of Mortgage Advisors.

John and his team at Bay Area Loans Direct joined Terra because he believes local borrowers should have access to a local direct lender. Terra works with local appraisers, o ers genuine loan approvals and quick closing times, and our rates meet or beat those of the national mega-lenders.

Our ve Marin branch o ces are sta ed with experienced, nationally accredited Mortgage Advisors who live in Marin and understand the local market. Like John.

If you are purchasing a new home, or re nancing your present one, we invite you to contact us today to discover the advantages of a local approach to lending.

60 Mount Tiburon Road, Tiburon

Incomparable orld Class views. Thoroughly remodeled, private, gated, preeminent ount Tiburon estate property. BR/ .5BA. MountTiburon.com

Offered at $7,495,000

903 Marin Drive, Mill Valley

Stunning, architecturally distinctive home in an idyllic, park like setting, reminiscent of an nglish countryside estate. BR/5.5BA 903Marin.com

Offered at: $2,395,000

225 Tamalpais Avenue, Mill Valley

Architecturally appealing custom home, attractively designed for its sublime setting on ill Valley’s iddle Ridge. 4BR/3BA 225Tamalpais.com

Offered at $1,899,000

Contemporary estate, privately set on two acres with views of S.F & the Bay. 5BR/ BA 92ViaLosAltos.com

Offered at $5,295,000 The ultimate in modern architecture. This stunning, recently completed home on acres integrates nature & design. 4BR/4.5BA. 305Oak.com

Offered at $2,895,000

1 Windward Road, Belvedere id Century Contemporary in a splendorous, sunny, southwest facing setting on the Belvedere agoon. 5BR/3BA 1Windward.com

Offered at: $2,095,000

151 Bayview Drive, Mill Valley

Beautifully updated contemporary in a private . 4 acre setting, with inspiring views from S.F. Bay to ount Diablo. 4BR/ .5BA. 151BayviewMV.com

Offered at: $1,695,000

5. . DR www.Howard ynn.com

30 Elm Avenue, Larkspur xtensively and meticulously remodeled home in lower alm Hill with contemporary style, sophistication and warmth. 4BR/ BA 30ElmAvenue.com

Offered at: $1,975,000

170 Locust Avenue, Mill Valley Fabulous, traditional home in Tamalpais ark. A split level design creates architectural interest and a feeling of openness. 4BR/3BA 170Locust.com

Offered at: $1,595,000

92 Via Los Altos, Tiburon

305 Oak Avenue, San Anselmo

CAPTIVATING COASTAL CONTEMPORARY OVERLOOKING THE BAY

Welcome to Vistazo West, one of the most sought after locations in Old Town Tiburon. Near the end of a dead end street close to Old St.Hillary’s open space this extraordinary residence offers the perfect blend of modern amenities with an ideal floorplan appealing to all lifestyles. Sweeping Views of the San Francisco Bay, Golden Gate Bridge Towers, Belvedere Island, and Downtown Tiburon, one must see to appreciate this magnificent setting.

Exclusively Offered At $3,250,000 For More Pictures And Details Please Go To 1778VistazoWest.com

• 4 Br/3.5Ba, including a main level guest suite

• Chef’s kitchen with center island & dining area

• Adjacent family room with fireplace

• Dramatic living & dining room with volume ceilings & seamless view windows

• Beautiful hardwood floors in all living areas

• Tranquil master suite offering a nice feeling of privacy

• Rear yard with sprawling lush lawn, flagstone patio, & custom decking, ideal for entertaining or play

• Designed by renowned Architect Brent Dickens

VICTORIA LOVE

Summer Collection 2012 Magical larkspur Estate

215 Magnolia Avenue, Larkspur

Sensational, stylish and light, The Gardiner House is one of Larkspur’s treasures. This updated 4 bedroom 2.5 bath 1901 jewel is graced with a joyful spirit that will capture your heart. Located in sought after Baltimore Park, this glorious gated property is steps to historic downtown Larkspur. The beautifully landscaped sun drenched lawns, expansive deck, along with the chic vintage Victorian architecture come together to create one of the town’s most prized properties.

215Magnolia.com | Offered at $2,995,000

stately Forbes Beauty

200 Forbes Avenue, San Rafael

Once a part of turn of the century Fairhills Estate, this vintage, 1908 light ÿlled stunner, is rich in history, elegance and style. Stately & grand, this 4+ bedroom, 4 bath home (approx.4200 sq. ft.) has been beautifully renovated blending magniÿcent scale with warm and inviting spaces. Imbued with classic details that include high ceilings, quarter sawn oak °oors, generously proportioned rooms, and a traditional °oor plan, 200 Forbes is the ideal synthesis of reÿned heritage and a modern lifestyle. An alluring swimming pool with Mt Tam views, a wrap around porch, gardens and patios make this property a rare ÿnd. Close to Marin Academy and downtown. A true masterpiece!

200Forbes.com |Offered at $2,150,000

283 East Strawberry Drive, Mill Valley Waterfront beauty with deep water dock, San Francisco views & expansive yard! Featuring 3750+/-SqFt. 4BD/3.5BA with separate Au-Pair/In-Law Suite in the prestigious Strawberry neighborhood. StrawberryWaterfront.com Offered at $2,795,000

& Stylish--this is the total package! 4+Bd/3Ba with open floor plan. Remodeled from the studs-up in 2001 with added upgrades. Fabulous level lot, organic garden, Sport Court & convenient to schools, shopping & recreation. 111Richardson.com Offered at $1,395,000

Kathleen Clifford

1123 Western Avenue, Mill Valley

Welcoming Western

From the moment you enter the covered walkway, you will be entranced with this lovely home, offering beautiful views and serenity. The flexible floor plan offers versatility, space and privacy.

The top level features a large master suite with a deck and bay views, gleaming wood plank floors, beamed ceilings, 3 closets, and a large master bathroom, with both double sinks and shower heads. On the main floor, Mexican tiled combination living and dining areas flank the kitchen and powder room, as well as very generous bonus spaces, which have been well utilized by the current owner. These beneficial areas add some really welcome extra space for the home. The lower level, again with wood plank flooring, offers 2 additional bedrooms, one of which is en suite. Large garage area, for 2 cars plus storage, is exceptionally hard to come by at this price point. Situated in the verdant hills, and heaven for runners, hikers and bikers, this home is a commuter’s dream, just moments to the freeway, yet feeling like miles away.

www.1123WesternAve.com

Offered at $749,000

415.314.6466

DRE# 01321467

Kathleen@KathleenCliffordRealEstate.com | MakingMarinHome.com

THE QUEEN OF ANDERSON VALLEY

O ered at $2,500,000

Sometimes there is a property that has a group of features that make it truly exceptional and this ranch is one of those properties. The lower portion of the property has 30± acres of mostly open grassland, 20 acres of which could be planted to world-renowned Anderson Valley Pinot Noir. The property is bordered by Anderson Creek, a year round tributary to the Navarro river, and a lush redwood forest and a lovely redwood canyon. Improvements include a 2800 sq. ft. custom home with exceptional panoramic views of the Anderson Valley, 3 additional small living structures, a serene pond, and a hobby vineyard. The ranch is close to town yet quiet and private. Add to all of this licensed water rights and low property taxes due to it’s Ag Preserve status and you truly have The Queen of Anderson Valley. A must-see.

Tim Mathias

tim@rancheriarealty.com • (707) 895-3333

www.rancheriarealty.com

Luxury Property Specialist

Kathleen Clifford

Looking Back

The Day the

Music Died

A secret funeral for Grateful Dead leader Jerry Garcia.

BY JIM WOOD

THEY SAY THE Grateful Dead started in the early sixties as a jug band in Palo A lto. Mother McCree’s Uptown Jug Champions and the Warlocks were two of the band’s early names. But as its name changed and its following grew — they played the Fillmore in 1966, embodied 1967’s “Summer of Love” and were part of Woodstock in 1969 — the Grateful Dead migrated north to San Francisco’s Haight-A shbury. Then, in the late 1970s, after concerts in New York, in London and at Egypt’s Great Pyramid at Giza, the group moved north again, this time to Marin, with business headquarters in San Rafael.

“In the ’90s, the Marin-based Grateful Dead became the top-grossing concert act in the nation,” wrote Marin Independent Journal music reporter Paul Liberatore in 1999. “They were

widely admired for staying true to their hippie ethos of improvisation and artistic independence.” But in 1995, the music proverbially died when Jerry Garcia, the Grateful Dead’s legendary lead guitarist and singer, passed away in his sleep in a Forest Knolls drug rehab facility, eight days after his 53rd birthday.

“I covered the funeral for the IJ,” Liberatore recalls. “It was closed to the press, but my friend Dennis McNally, the Grateful Dead’s historian, filled me in on what was going on inside.” The funeral’s time and location were closely guarded as secrets lest Garcia’s many fans would descend on the ceremony, held (it can now be divulged) at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Belvedere at 4 p.m. on August 12, 1995. That afternoon, local police cordoned o all roads leading into the town.

The Mill Valley resident’s death garnered front-page coverage in The New York Times and a comment from thenPresident Bill Clinton. “He was a great man, a genius,” Clinton said, adding, in a nod to Garcia’s history of drug abuse, “He also had demons he dealt with.” The funeral was limited to 275 family members and guests, who included Bob Dylan, Hall of Fame basketball player Bill Walton (a well-known “Deadhead”), author Ken Kesey (who gave a eulogy) and rocker Bruce Hornsby. Also present were surviving band members Bob Weir, Phil Lesh, Mickey Hart and Bill Kreutzmann, who remain active in the Marin music scene all these years later. m