MARI N E X T R A O R D I N A R Y
MARCH 2008
L I V I N G
1.888.S I M AYO F
◆
W W W. S I M AY O F. C O M
WWW.FABE RG E-J EWE LRY.COM
CONTENTS
74
Columns 24 28 pov
view from mount tam The creators of Marin Magazine welcome you
to share their vision.
Marin Water Update. by jim wood
Features 70 life
Marin’s Fashion Icon
Gladys Perint Palmer—woman of many talents. story mandy behbehani photos tim porter
74 fashion
Spring Into Color
A potpourri of colorful ensembles for the coming season. photos sasha gulish illustrations gladys perint palmer
Marin (Volume 4, Issue 3) is published monthly by Marin Magazine, LLC, One Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965. Application to Mail at Periodicals Postage Rates is Pending at Sausalito, CA and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Marin, One Harbor Drive, Suite 208 Sausalito, CA 94965.
MARIN
MARCH 2008
9
CONTENTS
92
Features 86 think
Offshore Alliance
Desolate Farallones attract Marin’s talented and tenacious. story jim wood
92 home
Sustainable Living in Style
Mill Valley family creates dream house surrounded by trees. story p. j. bremier photos barbara ries
98 journey
Wild Luxury in Kenya
Comfort and sustainable travel in the land of exotic animals. story & photos sara godwin
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MARCH 2008
86
CONTENTS
50
62
Departments 26
letters
30
at a glance
37
snap
46
trends
50
life style
53
fyi
Readers respond to Marin Magazine.
Hot tips day by day for the Bay Area.
Out and about, in and around Marin.
Bright colors return for spring. by somer flaherty
Dominican University’s John Stayton shares insights on personal style.
Business: Seize the sun power with Go Solar Marin. Causes: It Takes a Village in Mill Valley.
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MARIN
Home Decor: Mill Valley’s green kitchen. Travel: Sustainable practices in local hotels. MARCH 2008
CONTENTS
110
Departments 104 go What is ecotourism in 2008? by mimi towle
110 play Tally-ho in Nicasio. by p. j. bremier
114 books Confessions of a serial dater. by samantha berry
118 galleries Reflections on identity. by anne crump ray
122 calendar A roundup of performing arts, events, galleries and more.
The Cover Spring Fashion by Marin illustrator Gladys Perint Palmer. Cover art can be purchased at marinmagazine.com/coverart.
133 flavor
The burger next door. by somer flaherty Dine Out: An insider’s guide to Bay Area restaurants.
153 microclimate Waterfront lifestyle in Novato’s Bel Marin Keys. by jim wood
178 dialogue
John Gray of Men Are From Mars fame. by mimi towle
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MARCH 2008
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“Our passion is to give our customers the best service, sense of design, comfort and individuality in their eyewear.” - David Schwartz, Owner San Rafael • 1127 4th Street • 415.453.2020 Novato • 181 San Marin Drive • 415.892.2020
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Editorial editorial director Nikki Wood ext 105 nwood@marinmagazine.com
executive editor Jim Wood ext 106 jwood@marinmagazine.com
senior editor Mimi Towle ext 101 mtowle@marinmagazine.com
editor-at-large Tim Porter tporter@marinmagazine.com
departments editor Somer Flaherty ext 103 sflaherty@marinmagazine.com
copy editor/proofreader Cynthia Rubin
editorial contributors Samantha Berry, P. J. Bremier, Samantha Bronson, Sara Godwin, Anne Crump Ray
Art art director Anne Walzer awalzer@marinmagazine.com
production manager Alex French ext 111 production@marinmagazine.com
production artist Stephen Spoja
contributing photographers Drew Altizer, Sheri Montgomery, Barbara Ries
web master Nancy Williams
Administration controller Maeve Walsh ext 104 mwalsh@marinmagazine.com Marin Magazine, One Harbor Dr, Ste 208, Sausalito, CA 94965, phone: 415.332.4800, fax: 415.332.3048, web: marinmagazine.com, e-mail: editorial@marinmagazine.com
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MARIN
MARCH 2008
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for Life
Advertising publisher
Live in the spotlight of the Grand Tower
Lisa Shanower 415.332.4800 ext 107 lshanower@marinmagazine.com
advertising director Courtney Q. Roberts ext 108 croberts@marinmagazine.com
account manager Michele Johnson ext 110 mjohnson@marinmagazine.com
account manager Genevieve Luckel ext 109 gluckel@marinmagazine.com
sales coordinator Alex Reno ext 100 areno@marinmagazine.com
regional sales offices california media marin associates Lora Dinga 415.898.6400
new york couture marketing Karen Couture 917.821.4429
southeast tlc media Cindy Taylor 404.459.6578
hawaii destination marketing Debbie Joseph Shana Wong 808.739.2200
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advertising art director Alex French ext 111 production@marinmagazine.com Volume 4, Issue 3. Marin Magazine is published in Marin County by Marin Magazine LLC. All rights reserved. Copyright©2008. Reproduction of Marin Magazine content is prohibited without the expressed, written consent of Marin Magazine LLC. Unsolicited materials cannot be returned. Marin Magazine reserves the right to refuse to publish any advertisement deemed detrimental to the best interests of the community or that is in questionable taste. Marin Magazine is mailed monthly to homes and businesses in Marin County. Subscription rates are $12 per year. Marin Magazine, One Harbor Drive, Sausalito, CA 94965. Phone 415.332.4800, fax 415.332.3048, e-mail editorial@ marinmagazine.com, website marinmagazine.com. marin magazine is printed on 30% post-consumer waste paper member of the bpa worldwide: fsc-certified products originate from well-managed forests.
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MARIN
MARCH 2008
Check out:
our new menswear department for a great selection of fine Italian fashion.
welcome . enjoy . indulge fine women’s clothing & accessories (415) 892-2255 bettyann869@aol.com 869 Grant Avenue, Novato
V I E W F R O M M O U N T TA M
THIS ISSUE MARIN MAGAZINE MARKS ITS FIRST green
March is also our spring fashion issue and we have a
anniversary. For a year now we’ve printed the magazine on
special contribution from acclaimed fashion illustrator and
30 percent post-consumer waste paper—saving 120,000
design school director Gladys Perint Palmer, whose whim-
gallons of water, 543 tons of greenhouse gas emissions
sical work appears on our cover. Mandy Behbehani pro-
and approximately 2,200 trees so far.
files the San Rafael resident in Life. Our Fashion feature,
We’re acknowledging that milestone with several ar-
focusing on the season’s bright colors, is photographed by
ticles about the environment and other green issues. First,
Sasha Gulish and begins with another Palmer illustration.
we venture out to the Farallon Islands, where we see how
Also in the issue, Journey follows writer Sara Godwin
the efforts of several Marin residents are helping protect
as she safaris in Kenya, mixing a photographic hunt in the
the 250,000 birds that inhabit this rocky marine sanctuary.
wild with a retreat to luxurious seaside spas; Play tags
Then, P. J. Bremier takes us inside the Mill Valley home of
along as horses and hounds go on the hunt in Nicasio;
Ariel and Peter Englander, where forest-friendly materials,
Microclimate navigates the canals of Bel Marin Keys;
energy-stingy appliances and an eco-friendly garden give
Dialogue engages Men Are From Mars writer John Gray;
the house a small but still stylish environmental footprint.
and Flavor searches for the all-American hamburger.
In Go, Mimi Towle poses the question: what is ecotour-
As always, our wish is for your good reading. Enjoy
ism? Finally, our FYI departments show how to make ev-
Marin Magazine, as we continue to celebrate this
eryday life a bit greener: Business reports on the efforts of
extraordinary place!
local activist Lisa Max and Go Solar Marin; Home Decor
Lisa Shanower, Publisher
explores a green Mill Valley kitchen; and Travel locates
Nikki Wood, Editorial Director
sustainable local hotels.
24
MARIN
MARCH 2008
Jim Wood, Executive Editor
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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LE TTE R S
MARI N E X T R A O R D I N A R Y
L I V I N G
Readers respond Another great cover (March ’08, pictured at right), except it appears the photo was taken looking toward San Francisco. Don’t get me wrong; we’re very lucky to have such a great, worldly city so near. Although given the name of your magazine, (and its very loyal readers), wouldn’t it have been more appropriate to have the photo looking toward that other county, at
FEBRUARY 2008
the north end of the bridge? Neil Vickers, Sausalito
serve as not much more than breeding grounds for folks wanting to run for elective office.
Always exciting when the latest issue of Marin
Unfortunately, there are few leadership-train-
Magazine arrives. I wanted to tell you that I
ing opportunities in Marin County. However,
really enjoyed P. J. Bremier’s story about de-
the Environmental Forum of Marin is trying to
signer Linda Applewhite. I have been a fan of
confront that deficiency with their worthwhile
Linda’s color palette and design flair for about
work. This would be an excellent way for local
10 years and purchased her recent book, so
community foundations to share resources and
I was very excited to see the story about her
develop a training program that not only brings
and her two homes. Congrats on another
leaders together, but also educates them on the
extra-extraordinary issue.
issues they’ll be facing. I am on the advisory
Kim Taylor, via e-mail
panel for the county’s effort to secure renewable power, the Community Choice Aggregate,
A friend sent me the very interesting article
and find it one of the most interesting and re-
“Another Trek in the Wall” from your January
warding things I have ever done. Marin is a tal-
issue. I hope that Vassi Koutsaftis is a regular
ent rich county and I have always thought it
contributing writer. The article and photos ac-
such a waste that this talent isn’t being used to
curately capture all that is unpredictable and
solve problems and build consensus. Keep up
irresistible about adventure travel in Asia.
your good work.
Mary Richter, via e-mail
Jon Elam, via e-mail
That was a fine piece Jim Wood wrote in
Correction: In FYI People, Vino Veritas
your February issue (POV, “Marin Up Close”).
(March) regarding Julia Siler’s book House
However, it would have been interesting to
of Mondavi, we reported it had sold 100,000
look even closer by going to lafco.marin.org
books. At this time the book is in it’s eighth
to get a list of all Marin’s elected officials. At
printing and has sold just over 57,000 cop-
all the different levels, I’d guess there must be
ies. She formally interviewed Robert Mondavi
nearly 200. Most don’t end up facing reelec-
once for the book and spoke with him briefly
tion challenges as filings against incumbents
on several other occasions.
rarely occur. The level of apathy is huge and
26
MARIN
MARCH 2008
most elected bodies never have anyone coming
Letters to the editor may be edited for clarity
to their meetings to discuss the issues of the
and brevity. Send letters to Marin Magazine, One
day. As for appointed advisory bodies, such as
Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965.
planning and park commissions, these usually
Or e-mail jwood@marinmagazine.com.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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Marin • Peninsula
POV
Marin Water Update Is a desalination plant the answer? BY JIM WOOD West Marin.” MMWD also gets water from the
action by users,” says Helliker, “which, until a
Russian River, thanks to contracts with districts
crisis exists, isn’t always reliable.” 2) Increase
to the north. The source again: rainfall.
the Russian River water allotment. Russell says
MMWD’s area consumes 10 trillion gallons
this would entail a new pipeline and new con-
of water a year, using it to drink, cook, bathe,
tracts, both of which would face huge human,
water gardens—and run businesses such as
environmental and cost obstacles. 3) Construct
farms, restaurants and car washes. The average
a desalination plant on San Rafael Bay near
capacity of all seven reservoirs is 20 trillion gal-
the Richmond Bridge.
lons. “However,” says Larry Russell, a Ph.D. in
Though no commitment to desalination has
civil engineering and chair of MMWD’s five-per-
been made, a $1 million pilot project was con-
son elected board, “after two consecutive ‘dry’
structed (it passed all taste tests), a draft envi-
years, that capacity could drop to 10 trillion gal-
ronmental impact report has been completed,
lons, and we’d declare an emergency and call
and public hearings are now being held.
for a 65 percent rationing of water use.”
Currently, says Helliker, desalination or
C
equivalent reservoir capacity dipped into the
30 years ago after two winters of less
four trillion gallon range. Which is dangerous.
Santa Catalina Island. Also, after years of stops
than 50 percent of normal rainfall. Marin had
“In Sonoma and Marin counties, a 30 percent
and starts (only a few technically related), North
to beg the federal government for $6 million
shortage of water could cost over 33,000 jobs
America’s largest desal plant, in Tampa Bay,
to jury-rig a pipe over the Richmond Bridge
and a $4.36 billion loss in revenue due to layoffs
Florida, is now converting 25 million gallons of
that brought water to desperate residents.
and reduced consumer spending,” says the exec-
saltwater a day into freshwater.
an a county as lush as Marin have a
During the drought years of 1975 to ’77,
“desal” plants are operating successfully in
water shortage problem? It did some
Monterey County and on Southern California’s
Could it happen again? Paul Helliker, gen-
utive summary of a recent North Bay Economic
By fronting on San Rafael Bay, MMWD’s
eral manager of the Marin Municipal Water
Insight conference. And with global climate
proposed desal plant would take in water that’s
District (MMWD), says the county’s average
change increasingly evident, it’s hard to predict
warmer and less saline than that processed by
rainfall is 52 inches—and back-to-back dry win-
what the weather holds in store.
oceanfront locations. And because a sanitation
ters still mean trouble. “Last year we had only
Not to be trite, but what’s a water district to
plant is nearby, the brine extracted could be
35 inches of rain,” he says. “So heading into this
do? “The solution always proposed is to simply
mixed with treated wastewater and returned to
winter we were worried.” Possibly, the anxiety
build more reservoirs or increase the height of
the bay in an environmentally acceptable way.
was misplaced. By the end of January, Marin al-
existing dams,” says Russell, “but that’s almost
Moreover, the $115 million plant being proposed
ready had 32 inches of rain with notoriously wet
impossible.” The federal Endangered Species
would produce five million gallons of freshwater
March and March still to go.
Act and the State Water Resources Control
a day and could be expanded, at a cost of $60
Yet each year MMWD—which serves over
Board have adamantly and repeatedly thwart-
million, to double that amount.
190,000 central and southern Marin residents—
ed both approaches, he explains. “Protecting
Although considerable discussion and anal-
has a unique challenge. Unlike most districts,
the coho salmon, steelhead trout and oth-
ysis are still needed, the MMWD’s plan for a
Marin doesn’t have underground aquifers or
er natural habitats takes precedence. It’s not
water desalination plant appears superior to oth-
spring-fed lakes from which to draw freshwa-
something that’s even on the table.”
er alternatives for tackling Marin’s water quan-
ter. “We are 98 percent dependent on rainfall,”
Other potential solutions to Marin’s pre-
dary. It is a progressive, proven and permanent
Helliker says, “and then we store that water in
carious water situation: 1) Increase conserva-
solution. That’s my point of view. What’s yours?
our seven reservoirs—five on Mount Tam two in
tion efforts. “This is dependent on voluntary
28
MARIN
MARCH 2008
E-mail jwood@marinmagazine.com.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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EVE NT S I N MAR IN & B EYO ND
AT A GLAN C E
M ARCH THRU MARCH Share the Trail
MARCH 1 & 2 Pacific Orchid Expo
Heading out to Mount Tam? Check out the revamped website sharethetrail.org for the latest programs that encourage mountain bikers, equestrians and hikers to share the trail.
Known as one of the top flower shows in the country, the expo features over 150,000 different types of orchid species and breeds. Fort Mason (SF). 650.548.6700, orchidsanfrancisco.org
MARCH 3 Ken Burns
MARCH 4 Performing Arts
MARCH 13—21 Tiburon Film Festival
Hear the “most accomplished filmmaker of his generation,” speaking in Marin for one night only. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, speakerseries.net
Are You Ready, My Sister? tells the story of Underground Railroad conductor Harriet Tubman. Marin Center Showcase Theatre (San Rafael). 415.457.4878, youthinarts.org
This international festival showcases the best of independent global cinema, with over 250 films being presented. 1680 Tiburon Blvd (Tiburon). 415.381.4123, tiburonfilmfestival.com
MARCH 14 Pi Day
MARCH 15 Romancing the Island
MARCH 17 Saint Patrick’s Day
At 1:59 p.m. gather around the Pi shrine to celebrate the 20th anniversary of this holiday that started at the Exploratorium. Exploratorium (SF). 415.563.7337, exploratorium.edu
Follow the trail circumnavigating Angel Island State Park in this 12K or 25K run. Angel Island (Tiburon). 415.868.1829, envirosports.com
Celebrate Saint Patrick, one of the patron saints of Ireland, during this annual festive holiday. Don’t forget to wear green—or risk getting pinched!
MARCH 20 Marin Farm Day
MARCH 28 Film Screening
Kids can enjoy hands-on experiences outside the classroom, including exhibits by 30 local ranchers, farmers, producers and more. Marin Center Exhibit Hall (San Rafael). 415.499.6800
Don’t miss the film Klunkerz, which depicts the early years of mountain biking, as it screens during the Fairfax Documentary Film Festival. 7:30 p.m. at the Fairfax Theater (Fairfax). klunkerz.com
MARCH 29 Anne Lamott and Elizabeth Gilbert Marin author Lamott and journalist and novelist Gilbert talk about writing and their most recent works. Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
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MARIN
MARCH 2008
MARCH 31 Capitol Steps This political and satirist troupe is composed of current and former congressional staffers. Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, speakerseries.net
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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M A R I N ALBUM
Field of Greens BY TIM PORTER “In the spring, at the
FARMERS ARE ALWAYS A SEASON AHEAD. While most of Marin slogs through a wild and
wooly winter, with trees and power lines proving yet again that what goes up will, given
end of the day, you
enough wind, eventually come down, the western farmlands prepare for spring. The shorn stubble of harvest is plowed under. Greenhouses shelter racks of seeds
should smell like dirt.”
ready for the soil. Topsoil, weary from feeding nutrients all summer and fall to rows of veg-
— M A RGA RET AT WOOD
etables, reverses roles and replenishes for the work ahead with a nurturing fix of nitrogen from a cover crop. Cover crops — things like bell bean, vetch (not to be confused with kvetch) and mustard — are comfort food for dirt. They restore fertility, fight off weeds and attract critters that eat insects. In the world of organic farming — and that means Marin — cover crops are green manure. Amid the gray of winter, the bright patch of a cover crop stands out, catching the eye.
you’re still, you’ll catch a whisper on the wind. Listen closely; it’s the soil, saying “yummm.”
32
MARIN
MARCH 2008
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
PHOTO: TIM PORTER
There’s just such a spot on Nicasio Valley Road. Rising toward the sky arches a flowing curve of green and yellow mustard. The field smells musty, pungent with new life. And, if
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M A R I N GR E E N
Reducing Our Footprint Dedicated staff compose local Sustainablity Team. BY MIMI TOWLE N E S T L E D S M AC K I N T H E M I D D L E of the
inating helpful information via its website,
Planning, Building & Safety and Environmen-
marinsustainability.org, making presentations
tal Health divisions on the Marin County org
to the public, and developing and updating
chart, the Sustainability Team is literally the
policies and programs like those in the new
heart of the matter. The team is composed
Countywide Plan. For instance, one goal is for the county
and effectively trying to reduce our collec-
to become an independent power purchas-
tive ecological footprint. Have a question
er, which would enable homes and buildings
about green building? Alec Hoffmann is your
to run on renewable resources such as solar,
man. Want to green your business? Dana
wind and geothermal energy. “We are excit-
From left to right:
Armanino is your gal. To ask about solar
ed about the opportunities to reduce Marin’s
Alec Hoffmann,
power or woodstoves, call Omar Pena. And
consumption of resources and generation of
Omar Pena, Dawn
for all of the above and more, Dawn Weisz
waste,” says Weisz. “Strong community ef-
Weisz and Dana
is the one in charge. The team is working to
forts can help Marin serve as a model for
Armanino
create a greener future in Marin by dissem-
other communities.”
P H OTO: TIM P ORTER
of four dedicated staffers who are patiently
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MARIN
MARCH 2008
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
s a ss y ! Spring Collections by: Kay Celine Isda & Co Yansi Fugel Denim Collections by: Level 99 Paige Premium Denim J Brand Billy Blues New European Collections by: Bianca Ronen Chen Featured Jewelry Collections: Anna Beck Marjorie Baer Potluck Paris & Tiburon’s Exclusive Home for:
16 main street tiburon p. 435 1916 w. getkoze.com new store hours 10am - 6pm daily
PHOTO BY: KAY CELINE
Michael Stars
SNAP CARTIER
Retail Therapy In San Francisco Cartier director Robert Atkinson welcomed guests to a champagne and caviar breakfast. Cartier’s cadre of signature pages greeted the 100 guests, who were treat-
Robert Atkinson, Lexie Ng
Donna Casey, Heide Betz
ed to a selection of caviar and sweets among the glittering jewels and timepieces. Back in
MONKEY BUSINESS
Marin, new owner Sheila Meagher celebrated the opening of her new toy store Monkey Business in Strawberry Village. In San Anselmo Susanne Carek and Stephanie Kirkwood celebrated at the grand opening of their new lifestyle boutique Taloolah. In Novato fashionable philanthropists headed to Betty Ann for a champagne and shopping night to help raise money for the Sean Brecht Memorial Fund benefitting Aquatic Therapy Associates in San Rafael.
Father Tarantino, Sheila Meagher, Terry Keyes
TALOOLAH
Susanne Carek, Stephanie Kirkwood
Lisa Bonin
Elizabeth Ireland
Heidi Brech, Kimberly Wesch, Leslie Ferguson-Dietz
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
PHOTO CREDIT: CARTIER/DREW ALTIZER
BETTY ANN
Jane Burkhard, Nicole Mott
MARIN MARCH 2008
37
SNAP MARIN COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
Joanne and Thomas Peterson, Shurray Medina
June and Roland Minami, Alix Derby
Elyse and George Pasha IV
GIROTONDO
Giving Back This winter was a season of giving. Recently, the Marin Community Foundation honored and thanked its donors who have partnered with the organization to plan and conduct their own charitable giving. The group held a reception for about 120 people prior to a performance by the Marin Symphony. And Mill Valley’s Girotondo Italian School held a successful fundraising evening at Mezzo Mezzo Restaurant in San Rafael. Guest were treated to Italian delicacies, mandolin music and an exciting live auction. At the Throckmorton Theatre, Mountain Play held a Rosella Pusateri, David Gissandaner
MOUNTAIN PLAY
benefit for its 2008 season. The evening featured a champagne reception and a live auction presented by Richard Habib. The event raised over $40,000 to benefit the upcoming performance of the Wizard of Oz. In San Rafael,
GUIDE DOGS FOR THE BLIND
former Marinite Robin Williams came out to support the Trips for Kids 20th anniversary gala and dinner, where $125,000 was raised for the nonprofit. Recently, nearly 1,000 people attended the Guide Dogs for the Blind annual luncheon at the Westin St. Francis Hotel in
Kathy King, Sara Pearson, Phyllis Faber
San Francisco. The event raised an estimated $200,000, which will help the group offer its services free of charge.
Holly Horton, Rick Aster
TRIPS FOR KIDS
Patricia Gallery, Robin Williams, Marilyn Price and Richard Idell
38
MARIN MARCH 2008
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
PHOTO CREDIT: MCF/FRED SILVERMAN; MOUNTAIN PLAY/SARA PEARSON
Melanie Haddad, Beth Spotswood, Mary Lansing
SNAP ATTITUDINAL HEALING
Around Town With 450 people in attendance, the International Center for Attitudinal Healing held a successful Fall Fantasia Gala at the Marin Civic Center, raising more than $100,000 for the organization. At the Marin Country Club in Novato, Senior Access celebrated 35 years in business with an evening showcasing artwork up for auction created by Senior Access participants. In Larkspur the Lark Theater hosted a Hawaiian cultural event celebrating the hula with a performance by Halau Hula Na Pua O Ka La’akea. In San Geronimo, 128 golfers and Kiddo! supporters teed up for the third annual Kiddo! Michelle and Normand Groleau
Golf Tournament, which raised a record-breaking $47,000 for longterm sustainable funding for arts, music and technology programs in
SENIOR ACCESS
the Mill Valley public schools.
LARK THEATER
Joe O’Hehir, Stephanie Witt, Pam Hamilton James and Jean Deitz
Bernice Baeza, Chuck and Donna Huggins
KIDDO! GOLF TOURNAMENT
Larry Meredith
40
MARIN MARCH 2008
Jonathan Goldman, Ric Capretta, Mitch Friedman, Rob Kessel
David Werdegar
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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67
SNAP SAN FRANCISCO BALLET
Josh Rosin, Dede Wilsey
Michelle Renee, Patricia Rock
Jean Larette, Glenn McCoy, Marie O’Gara Lipman Farron and Martin Brotman
Pamala Deikel, Jim and Linnea Gerber
DEIKEL PARTY
Joan DeHovitz, Aaron Braun, Nicole Faidi
BLOWTORCH
Graham and Shay Kos
A Snap Shot The San Francisco Ballet Auxiliary hostbenefactors of the San Francisco Ballet’s Opening Night Diamond Gala Celebration at the home of Dede Wilsey. Gala chair and Sausalito resident Jean Larette and Marinites Graham and Shay Kos were on hand to celebrate the evening. And recently, Marinites like Bay Club president Jim Kelly Rodriques
Steve Weinswig, Jenna Kraczek
George Johnson
Gerber and his wife, Linnea, made the trek
Kevin Ready, Alex Harris
over the bridge for Pamala and Ted Deikel’s annual bash on Nob Hill, which brought philanthropic guests from Marin and San Francisco together for an evening of cocktails and conversation. Blowtorch Inc. celebrated the opening of its Sausalito offices last January. The media entertainment company, led by Kelly Rodriques of Kentfield, has been named one of six companies to watch in 2008 by Fortune magazine.
Hadar Wissotzky, Kathy Stahl
42
MARIN MARCH 2008
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
PHOTO CREDIT: SAN FRANCISCO BALLET/DREW ALTIZER; DEIKEL PARTY/ HEATHER WILEY FOR DREW ALITZER
ed a cocktail reception honoring grand
“The Fine Art of Fine Property” Tracy McLaughlin Named Marin’s top producing agent for 2007 with 100 million sold. Specializing in Marin County Properties since 1997.
Tracy McLaughlin 415/464-8686 www.marinfinehomes.com tracy@marinfinehomes.com
F Y I B E AUT Y Check out these other local beauty companies offering green products:
3
More Green Beauty Choices 1 Biodynamic Skin care Although
to create a healthy, self-supporting,
Safe Cosmetics, “the U.S. National
the phrase biodynamic farming was
farming ecosystem.”
Toxicology Program says formalde-
coined over 80 years ago by phi-
Locally, skin care company
hyde is ‘reasonably anticipated’ to
losopher Rudolf Steiner, who be-
Jurlique—which just unveiled a
be a human carcinogen. Meanwhile,
lieved that a detailed, caring ap-
major design renovation of its
the U.S. Environmental Protection
proach to farming would reveal
Fillmore Street location—gath-
Agency (EPA) restricts toluene in
nature’s living sources of health and
ers over 35 different varieties of
drinking water because it can cause
renewal, consumers are now be-
plants and flowers that provide
nervous system disorders and dam-
coming familiar with the benefits
the biodynamic blends in its prod-
age the liver and kidneys. DBP is
of using biodynamic principles in
ucts from its own certified organic
prohibited for use in cosmetics in
their beauty regimens. According
and biodynamic farms, which span
the European Union because it is a
to the Greenopia guide, biodynamic
165 acres in the Adelaide Hills
possible human reproductive or de-
farming is, “the use of basic organic
of South Australia. Jurlique (SF).
velopmental toxin.” 888.988.7685,
practices but adding special plant,
415.346.7881, jurlique.com
soulsticespa.com
to the land and using the rhythm
2 Eco - f r i e n d l y Na i l Po l i s h
3 Mother and Daughter Organic
of the sun, moon, planets, and stars
Sausalito-based skin care com-
Skin Care Mill Valley resident
pany Soulstice Spa produces 100
Karine Wittmer recently launched
percent vegan as well as dibu-
organic skin care line Edelbio,
tyl phthalate (DBP),
which is marketed for moth-
toluene-and form-
ers and daughters with specific
EO Products A blend of pure essential oils with other plant-based ingredients, available at Woodlands Market (Kentfield). 415.457.8160, eoproducts.com Juice Beauty Toners, moisturizers, sun protection and more, available at Whole Foods (Mill Valley). 415.381.1200, juicebeauty.com Pomega 5 The skin care line is all natural, preservative free and made with biodynamic, coldpressed Omega 5-rich pomegranate seed oil, available at Elephant Pharmacy (San Rafael). 415.462.6000, pomega5.com Stellar Spa Skin, bath and body care products, available at Stellar Spa (Corte Madera). 415.924.7300, stellarspa.com
animal, and mineral preparations
2 1
aldehyde-free pol-
lines for each. The products con-
ish —and a portion of
tain no synthetic chemicals or ar-
all proceeds are
tificially processed ingredients
donated to non-
like silicones, mineral oils, para-
profit social and
bens, chemical colorants or syn-
environmental or-
thetic fragrances, and no ani-
ganizations.
mal raw materials, or GMOs.
According to the Campaign for 44
MARIN
MARCH 2008
Trukids Organic hair and skin products for kids with compostable packaging, available at Monkey Business (Mill Valley). 415.383.8697, trukids.com TweenBeauty A line of natural shampoos and conditioners for tweens, available at TweenBeauty (Fairfax). 415.457.3176, tweenbeauty.com
edelbioskincare.com by somer flaherty
BY SOMER FLAHERTY
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
FA S H I ON TRENDS 1 5
bright colors return for spring 2
This season designers are making bold statements with kaleidoscopic colors that usher out drab winter days. “Spring is the time of year to have fun with color, so go for that neon yellow, fuchsia and electric-blue handbag,” says Chinese Laundry designer Kerry Haymes.
4
1. Melrose Noel Yoko in orange cotton linen blend with silver embossed cowhide handle by Kate Spade. $425 at Kate Spade (SF). 415.216.0880, katespade.com
2. Shiny canvas pack bag in the color dahlia by Stella McCartney. $1,195 at Neiman Marcus (SF). 415.362.3900, neimanmarcus.com
3. Coral ice knit gown with crystal and mezzo detail by St. John. $1,995 at St. John Boutiques, 415.856.0420, sjk.com
4. Francine bag by Coach. $798 at Coach (Corte Madera). 415.924.5046, coach.com
3
5. Framed coin case “Le Plissé Dior,” in purple leather by Christian Dior. Price available upon request at Christian Dior (SF). 415.544.0394, dior.com by somer flaherty
46
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MARCH 2008
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
FA S H I ON TRENDS
5
purples, pinks and everything in between 3
2
1
If you aren’t ready to jump into a season of fuchsia textiles, try taking a different approach to spring’s electric-hued trends with deep purples, blush pinks and soft oranges.
4
1. Molokai necklace by Moonrise Jewelry. $108 at Tela D (Fairfax). 415.455.9410 2. Star necklace in multicolor by Yves Saint Laurent. $4,180 at Yves Saint Laurent (SF). 415.837.1211, ysl.com
3. Candi dress by Sworn Virgins. $140 at Embodies (Fairfax). 415.461.6462, embodies.com
4. Amethyst bracelet by Thalia. $895 at Blanc (San Anselmo). 415.485.0104
5. Ilsa sunglasses by Oliver Peoples. $340 at 20/20 Optical (San Rafael). 415.453.2020, 2020opticalinc.com
by somer flaherty
48
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MARCH 2008
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
Marin
3FMBY 3FOFX ɨF 4BODUVBSZ 4QB BU #BZ $MVC .BSJO 1BNQFS ZPVSTFMG ZPV EFTFSWF JU
$PSUF .BEFSB 5PXO $FOUFS $PSUF .BEFSB CBZDMVCNBSJO DPN
FA S H I ON
lifestyle Name: John Stayton Home: Windsor, California Occupation: Green MBA Program Director, Dominican University of California What are you wearing? It’s been raining John Stayton walks
out and I just took off a waterproof dust
the talk. The direc-
man’s cap (from Mendocino Hat Company)
tor of Dominican
and my L.L. Bean barn coat. An Indigenous
University’s
Designs alpaca zip-up cardigan over a
Sustainable
Tianello Tencel (made from wood pulp) and
Enterprise pro-
rayon long-sleeve shirt. Generic pleated
gram—aka “Green
chinos, Hi-Tec low-rise boot shoes.
MBA”—he lives on an organic farm
Where would you wear this outfit? Going
about an hour
to work on a rainy day when I don’t have
north of Marin,
any dress-up meetings.
commutes in a hybrid, and wears
How long does it take you to get ready
a cardigan made
in the morning? Thirty minutes yoga; 30
from alpaca wool
minutes shower, shave, etc.; 30 minutes
(not as of yet avail-
meditation; 30 minutes farm chores, cook-
able at Brooks
ing and eating breakfast while reading the
Brothers). As a role
local paper.
model he inspires students who want
Describe your personal style. Work: appro-
to be part of the
priate, subdued, serious. Perhaps a little too
environmental
earnest at times. I want “green” to be taken
solution; his per-
seriously in professional circles, so I don’t
sonal style shows
go for the frumpy hemp look. Better to be
there is indeed a
a little overdressed than underdressed.
time and a place
Home: farm comfy casual. Jeans, T-shirt, a
for Birkenstocks, if
soft plaid work shirt and a glass of wine.
not necessarily in the boardroom.
Who are your fashion influences? My naturally fashionable son, Jeremy. I have received many more hand-me-ups than when she looks at me in the morning I can tell instantly if my outfit is wrong. And finally, a very stylish Green MBA graduate (now a friend), Lance Funston. He has described my look as “TravelSmith.”
50
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MARINMAGAZINE.COM
P H OTO: BARBA RA R IE S
he has received hand-me-downs. My wife:
What would you never be caught dead in? Loafers. I have narrow heels, so any kind of slip-ons would leave my heels a bloody mess. Where do you love to shop in Marin? Book Passage. I’m a bookaholic.
La Sede Bella European Fabrics, English & French Countr y Furniture
Favorite designers? Mother Nature. Bill McDonough. Buckminster Fuller. My friend Gary Barker of GreenHeart Global, who designed beautiful clothing hangers that just happen to be 100 precent recyclable. Clothing designers? Not on my radar. What is always in your bag/pockets? A large clump of keys with a metal guitarshaped bottle opener (I do enjoy the occasional microbrewed ale). A comb. A tiny bottle of Del drops (kick-ass natural breath freshener). My wallet, with some business cards shoved in. What is your best cheapo secret? Yard sales. The typical American now buys about 75 articles of clothing per year, up from 45 in the early ’90s. So they constantly empty their closests of perfectly fine, barely worn, clothing to make room for the new stuff. What’s your fashion pet peeve? Many of the early “eco” clothing designs were awful—shapeless wrinkled shirts with sleeves of mismatched lengths and garish pants with drawstrings. They gave a bad name to what should have been (and is now) a superior product. What’s the most expensive thing you’ve ever bought? Our home/organic fruit farm, of course. Second: my 2007 Honda Civic Hybrid from Marin Honda. Did it make you happy? They both bring me pleasure. Is that the same thing as making me happy? I don’t think so. If your life were a movie, what would be your theme song? “I Still Believe,” by
535 San Anselmo Ave. San Anselmo, CA 94960 415.453.8200
626 Santa Cruz Ave. Menlo Park, CA 94025 650.328.8300
Michael Been and the Call. MARINMAGAZINE.COM
MARIN
MARCH 2008
51
The next best thing to actually being there!
©A.M.P.A.S.®
14TH ANNUAL
Oscar Night® America Gala & Silent Auction | February 24, 2008 presented by the California Film Institute & benefiting CFI Education programs
For Tickets call 415 526 5852 or visit cafilm.org
FYI
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
CARPE
DIEM Or rather, seize the sun (power) THINKING OF GOING SOLAR? Now is the time. For those who have missed the coverage on Lisa Max (pictured at left) and Go Solar Marin, here’s the scoop: it all started with
FY I BUSINE S S
an effort to get a lower price for solar in Max’s San Rafael neighborhood by pooling residents’ collective buying power. Somewhere along the way their quest grew to a countywide discount and forming Go Solar Marin.
PHOTO: TIM PO RTE R
In addition to price, they were concerned with how well a company
GREEN OFFSETS A 3-kilowatt system offsets 6,261 pounds (or 3.13 tons) of carbon dioxide each year (the CO2 normally created by traditional fossil-fuel power plants) and is equal to 323 gallons of gasoline or 6.6 barrels of oil. It would take over 7 acres of tropical rain forest to absorb this much CO2.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
* info from SPG Solar
was run, how it dealt with its customers and, most important, how
MARIN
MARCH 2008
53
well it could service a large influx of new business. “Out of ten finalists, we selected Novato-
My wealth is well cared for...
based SPG Solar,” Max says, “because it best fulfilled Go Solar Marin’s mission, but as time has gone on, almost all of the companies have stepped up to match or outcompete SPG Solar’s offer of $7.94 a kilowatt.” The industry average is $9 a kilowatt for installing a system. “The biggest reason to go solar now, besides the Go Solar Marin discount, is the state and
“
federal rebates are not going to get any better,”
Hiring a professional wealth manager has allowed
me to focus on my business, freeing up time to spend with my family and pursue my other passions – all with peace of mind…
says Max. “In fact, the longer you wait, the less you get back.” In January 2007, the state set up the $3.3 billion California Solar Initiative, which doles out rebates to homeowners who install solar power. “A typical home would use a 3-kilowatt system, and the current rebate is
…and since Main Street’s fees are directly tied to my performance, they care about my success as much as I do.
”
Max likens an investment in solar to a mortgage. “If you’re going to be paying $150 toward the electrical part of your bill,” she says, “you might as well be paying that toward a loan that will eventually be paid off.” $2.20 per watt, which translates as approximately $6,600 back to the consumer plus another $2,000 federal investment tax credit that eligible homeowners can take on their next tax return,” says Amy Morgan of the California Energy Commission. “And as more people sign up, per-wattage discount decreases.” So use it or someone else will. Max likens an investment in solar to a mort-
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gage. “If you’re going to be paying $150 toward the electrical part of your bill,” she says, “you might as well be paying that toward a loan that will eventually be paid off.” For instance, her friends had the first installation in the Go Solar Marin program. Their typical two-story, four-bedroom house occupied by two adults burns through about 10,000 kilowatt hours a year. Their initial proposals for a 2.165kilowatt system came in at about $20,101 (not
54
MARIN
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MARINMAGAZINE.COM
So, why go solar?
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The California Energy Commission offers a few reasons. ✹ A photovoltaic system (PV) reduces, or can completely eliminate, the amount of electricity you have to purchase from your utility or electric service provider.
✹ A PV system can save you money on your electricity bill and act as a hedge against future price increases.
✹ The electricity generated by your PV system is clean, renewable and reliable.
✹ You help your community by reducing
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the electricity demand, and you provide additional electricity for the grid when you generate more than you use during the day, when this demand is highest.
including the California state rebate of $4,391). This system is estimated to bring electrical usage down from higher tiers to the basic rate and reduce the average monthly electrical cost from about $150 a month to $50 a month—an annual saving of $1,200. A larger but more costly system could bring the monthly tab to zero. After Go Solar Marin’s prices went into effect, the group signed up for solar at $17,172. After deduction of the state rebate (which most vendors will do up front, applying for the rebate themselves) the cost was $12,780. Then there is a $2,000 federal tax credit for solar systems, which brings the cost to $10,780. With anticipated rises in electrical costs, it is estimated that this solar setup will pay for itself in six to eight years. Of course, some homeowners are put off by the aesthetics — or, better said, the lack of aesthetics — of a solar array on the rooftop. If only those gorgeous slate roof tiles could act as photovoltaic sensors, most owners could
Robert H. Byers, MD Jon Goff, MD David H. Goltz, MD John C. Keohane, MD Michael J. Oechsel, MD Ernest H. Sponzilli, MD Michael S. Stock, MD Charles A. Stuart, MD Noah Weiss, MD
justify the cost in a heartbeat. While not invisible, today’s home solar setups are state-of-theart. “Marin consumers have access to the latest
18 Bon Air Road, Larkspur 2 Bon Air Road, Suite 120, Larkspur • 415.927.5300
technologies that are widely used around the
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
MARIN
MARCH 2008
55
Solar Providers
Spring 2008 at Pearl Larkspur
Cooperative Community Energy 877.228.8700, ccenergy.com Green Light Solar 415.381.2400 Marin Solar 415.456.2800, marinsolar.com SPG Solar 415.883.7657, spgsolar.com Sun First 415.458.5870, sunfirstsolar.com Suntrek Industries 800.292.7648, suntreksolar.com Solarcraft 415.382.7717, solarcraft.com REC Solar 888.657.6527, recsolar.com
world,” says Ted Walsh, solar advocate and
Ports M.
1020 Magnolia Avenue Larkspur 415.464.1808
1961
Missoni
Tory
von
Loeffler
are becoming more and more efficient at absorbing sunlight and converting it to energy, the actual size of the systems has not changed that much in the past five or 10 years.” What if you have a small roof or tenu-
Burch
Diane
sales manager at SPG Solar. “While the tiles
ous sun exposure? “Even if you were to add Furstenberg
a few panels,” says Walsh, “it would make a difference in your PG&E bill.” He points out
Randall
that electricity is charged in tiers, as with a cell phone bill, discouraging excessive use
Splendid
by charging more as usage increases. Most
Schumacher
homes in Marin, packed with a few comput-
Theory
ers, a couple fridges and a pool or hot tub,
Vince
one turning a light on. If some energy usage
and
can easily run at the third tier without any-
is diverted to solar, the remaining electrical
more...
usage is charged at the lowest tiers — making a huge different in the actual bill. For more information on Go Solar Marin, go to spgsolar.com. Max, a self- described math wonk, is also happy to help anyone interested in
Monday
thru
Saturday
10:30am -5:30pm,
Sunday
Noon-5pm
going over the numbers; she can be reached at gosolarmarin@yahoo.com.
56
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—M. T.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
Our covers. Your walls. Now you can buy Marin Magazine covers for your home or office. Available in various sizes, framed or unframed, with or without the Marin Magazine logo, these professional quality prints are a beautiful addition to any wall. Visit marinmagazine.com/coverart today.
MARI N E X T R A O R D I N A R Y
L I V I N G
MARCH 2008
MARI N E X T R A O R D I N A R Y
JANUARY 2008 DECEMBER 2007
L I V I N G
AUGUST 2007
MARI N E X T R A O R D I N A R Y
L I V I N G
MARI N E X T R A O R D I N A R Y
L I V I N G
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L I V I N G
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FEBRUARY 2007
FEBRUARY 2008 JUNE 2007
MAY 2007
APRIL 2007
L I V I N G
F Y I CAUS E S
The Village in Mill Valley
From left: Andrea Brandeis, Caron Stapleton, Marianne Shine, Kerri Mills
BY SAMANTHA BRONSON
W
hen Caron Stapleton’s first grader was
special-needs children, and within months 70 peo-
diagnosed with a learning disabil-
ple were attending a charter meeting of It Takes a
ity several years ago, the Mill Valley
Village, an education and support group for parents
mother didn’t know where to turn. The Mill Valley School District offered resources within the district,
Since that first meeting two and a half years ago,
but Stapleton was also looking for community sup-
the group has grown to nearly 300. Included are par-
port. She didn’t find it.
ents of children with a wide range of learning dis-
“I felt like I had nobody to talk to about it, absolutely no one,” she recalls. In time, she learned that another local mother, Andrea Brandeis, also had a child with a learning
58
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of MVSD students with learning challenges.
abilities, from autism and cerebral palsy to attention disorders and dyslexia. About 11 percent of the district’s students qualify for special education assistance of some type, says assistant superintendent Kerri Mills.
disability, and the two realized there must be more
It Takes a Village welcomes all parents, regard-
parents like them. They met with parents of other
less of their children’s condition (including those of
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
P H OTO: TIM P ORTER
It Takes a Village helps connect parents with hope and resources.
children without disabilities), and makes sure they know they’re not alone. “There’s nothing like seeing yourself in another person,” says Brandeis, president of the group. “It’s validating and makes it real. It brings you comfort and joy.” It Takes a Village strives to provide that reassurance in many ways, including a free monthly speaker series in which experts address issues like reading strategies and how to balance the needs of a child who has a learning disability with those of a sibling who doesn’t. The group also organizes playdates at a local park and quarterly coffees where parents can share strategies and concerns. And it works closely with the school district to keep parents apprised of available district resources and help.
“There’s nothing like seeing yourself in another person. It’s validating and makes it real. It brings you comfort and joy.” Like all relatively new nonprofits, this one faces financial constraints (its yearly budget is only about $2,000) and the challenge of publicizing its mission. The latter includes overcoming reactions some parents instinctively have to the term special education—the misperception that it refers only to severe disabilities, the worry that a learning disability stigmatizes a child. “Some people don’t want the public to
Dominican’s GreenMBA® students create real-world, sustainable solutions for our community Miya Kitahara, GreenMBA® ’07, has found a way to make a difference in everyday life – and right in your closet. The company she works with, Greenheart Global, reduces landfill attributable to the millions of wire and non-recyclable hangers produced annually. Adopting the motto “Intelligent Design”, Greenheart has created awardwinning, well-designed,100% recyclable clothes hangers. April Capil, GreenMBA® ‘06, has just launched a whimsical new line of recyclable and completely non-toxic playhouses for children. Fridge Box aims to recapture the imaginative possibilities of the big cardboard box – will it be a shelter, spacecraft, storefront or racecar? Whatever creative endeavor your child pursues, it will now be green.
know their kid has a learning difference,” says executive vice president Marianne Shine. “They’re so afraid of the label, so they go on this journey on their own.” As the organization expands its reach—it’s
When your passion is to care for the planet and people, you’re ready for Dominican’s GreenMBA®.
working on setting up a mentoring program and a learning disability lending library at each district school—members hope its presence promotes much-needed public dialogue as well. “We want to bring special education out of the closet and hopefully provoke conversation in the community instead of it being a dirty little secret that families have to hide,” Stapleton says. For more information, go to itavmv.org.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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MARCH 2008
59
F Y I H OM E DECO R
ECO KITCHEN MILL VALLEY 5
6
8
2 3
7
1
4
1. Cabinets Custom made from FSC-certified maple fronts with Medite II panels and cores. Classic Mill & Cabinet (Santa Rosa). 707.544.7840, classicmill.com; Skyside Studios (Novato). 415.883.9455, skysidestudios.com 2. Appliances Energy Star–compliant SubZero 650 refrigerator and Bosch SHV66 dishwasher. Bay Area Built-Ins (San Rafael). 415.457.2226, bayareabuiltins.com; Standards of Excellence (San Rafael). 415.453.6070, standardsofexcellence.
tarosa.com 5.Lighting Compact fluorescent Essential 10975 fixtures, halogen and incandescent dimmable ceiling cans. Lights of Rafael (San Rafael). 415.472.7292, lightsofrafael.com; Home Depot (San Rafael). 415.458.8675, homedepot.com 6. Dishes Coupe pattern from Heath Ceramics; the company follows stringent recycling and reuse programs. Heath Ceramics (Sausalito). 415.332.3732, ext. 13, heathceramics.com 7. Plumbing Fixtures Finished in satin nickel, said to be more eco-friendly than chrome. The Sink Factory (Berkeley). 510.540.8193, sinkfactory.com 8. Paint AFM safecoat zero-VOC. Green Fusion Design Center (San Anselmo). 415.454.0174, green-fusion.com. —S.F./M.T.
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MARINMAGAZINE.COM
PH OTO: EM ILY HAG OPIAN
com 3. Water Filtration Removes dirt, rust and debris and targets chemicals. Gaiam eco-lifestyle site, 877.989.6321, gaiam.com 4. Flooring FSC-certified solid oak with Bona Environmental Choice System Low VOC water-based stain and finish. Empire Floors (Santa Rosa). 707.524.2594, empirefloorssan-
Geoffrey Strawbridge and his wife Robin had many people helping then with their green remodel of their
DISCOVER M ARIN’S MOST EXTRAORDINARY MARKET
Mill Valley, Tamalpais Park home — including architect Sim Van der Ryn and designer So Young Mack of Tiger Rose Designs — but when it came down to it, Geoff (who is a green consultant) made the final “green” decisions himself and was able to specify materials for a beautiful, virtually chemical-free place for him and his family to enjoy. What was the biggest challenge in making your kitchen green? Beside the increased cost, I would say picking products that balanced eco with aesthetics can be challenging depending on what look you are after. This is
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changing fast as more green products are coming on the market. Did you feel you had to compromise quality to go green? Not particularly, but with the caveat that you need to use a painter who is experienced in the application of the paint you choose. Would you do anything differently? I wish we had had more time to explore greener options for the countertop and tile material. Our laundry room counter is eco-cem, a sustainable product that is made from cement and wood, which has a beautiful clean look to it. Was there an extra expense you incurred to make this kitchen green? The margin is closing fast and should only be 5 to 10 percent higher than if we were to use conventional materials.
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F Y I TRAVEL
STEWARDS OF CHANGE Bay Area hoteliers show how going green is the way of the future BY MIMI TOWLE
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maybe 25 percent of such success, but guests’ feedback during checkout suggest “folks are very impressed with our efforts,” he says. Since LEED applies only to construction, Mühle has enlisted the Green Seal group to evaluate operating procedures and the San Francisco Office of the Environment to monitor such factors as energy efficiency, water usage, recycling and composting. “Most hotel managers don’t have time to pay attention to greening their properties, which is why these third-party groups are so useful,” he adds. Even up front, the investment proved reasonable: greening measures cost only about $100,000 out of the Orchard Garden’s overall $21 million construction tab. For owner Mrs. S. C. Huang, springing for a healthier building was never a question: she blames indoor and outdoor environmental toxicity for contributing to the cancer that killed her husband, father and daughter in the 1990s. In fact, she OPPOSITE PAGE : Geothermal springs heat the waters of Spa Solage’s tranquil adult pool. UPPER LEFT : The
Orchard Garden Hotel soaks in the sun. UPPER RIGHT : Bikes are used by staff and guests alike at Solage. BELOW : Private patio and 100% Egytpian cotton sheets can be found at the Orchard Garden.
and Mühle have decided to seek LEED EB (existing building) certification for the nearby sister property Orchard Hotel this year. At about $180 per night, the Orchard Garden is priced comparably with other San Francisco luxe boutique hotels. Guest rooms feature Egyptian cotton linens, feather down pillows, contemporary furnishings and large flat-panel HD TVs—not exactly roughing it. Speaking of green luxury, Calistoga’s Solage Hotel, opend last year as well by Marin-based Auberge Resorts, is the third Auberge property in the Napa Valley. While green certification wasn’t actively sought during the building of these high-end properties, “future projects will be certified under LEED,” CEO Mark Harmon says. More important than certification, he says, is to establish an ecological benchmark
T
he numbers are in. Green is good for
brought significant savings as well. (The Z-
for operations along with environmental goals;
business. The Orchard Garden Hotel in
Duct system in the walls allows fresh air into
accordingly, Auberge has hired independent
San Francisco, designed by Mill Valley
the rooms while keeping street noise at bay.)
sustainability consulting firm Natural Logic to evaluate all three properties and set up eco-ob-
firm Architecture International, has been open
And visitors definitely approve. In a city
for just over a year and has already tallied sav-
with 35,000 hotel rooms, the Orchard Garden
ings. A custom-designed key card energy-con-
is maintaining a 76 percent occupancy rate
Solage is already ahead of the curve.
trol system reduced energy costs by about 20
and is already rated number eight on tripadvi-
Guests and staff use bicycles to get around the
percent and is projected to pay for itself in less
sor.com—impressive milestones for a new ho-
16,200-square-foot property, and heating and
than four years. A reflective Energy Star–rated
tel. General manager Stefan Mühle isn’t sure
cooling are fueled partially by solar panels and
roof and specially made sealed windows have
if LEED certification accounts for more than
geothermal energy from the famous Calistoga
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
jectives in 2008.
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MARCH 2008
63
hot springs. In-room lotions and potions are provided by SumBody, a local company that makes products in small batches with raw,
SEARCHING FOR
SUN? EVENTS I TRAVEL I DINE I CALENDAR I REAL ESTATE ABOUT MARIN COUNTY I RESOURCES I ARCHIVES
natural, chemical- and preservative-free ingredients. And housekeeping uses only nontoxic, biodegradable cleaning agents. Will these green features, while undoubtedly good for PR, affect the bottom line? “Yes. The long-term savings on energy costs from
TAHOE Keeping it blue Lake Tahoe is a year-round playground. Skiing, biking, fishing, boating, just getting close to nature—the attractions of this pine-scented paradise lure hundreds of thousands of us visitors every year. To keep the lake blue and the mountains
In our stunningly beautiful county, winter can be cold and wet. If you’re searching for sun, go to marinmagazine.com/travel. You will find an archive of all our local and international travel features including a special section for Hawaii.
green, developers and resorts have taken notable measures toward sustainability. Just last January, the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) gave kudos to East West Partners’ Tahoe Mountain Resorts division for constructing the first large-scale,
While you are there, sign up for our Travel Newsletter for information on quarterly travel deals.
multi-building green resort development in the United States. Highlights include LEED certification for phases I and II of the Village at Northstar and the golf course at Old Greenwood. The organic turf management systems at Old Greenwood employ no chemicals, and the maintenance facility’s landscape design reduces water use with features like infrared faucet controls and a rainwater capture system. Northstar was also recently applauded along with four other Tahoe resorts in the National Ski Areas Association’s “Sustainable Slopes” 2007 annual report. The resort got high marks for increas-
MARINMAGA ZINE .COM
ing recycling, expanding mass transit and developing a comprehensive habitat management plan for all 8,000 acres. Nearby Squaw Valley made the list for decreasing erosion via increased vegetation; implementing a treatment system
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going green are significant,” Harmon says. “In addition to those real savings, guests are making a very conscious choice to select hotels and other businesses that are committed to going
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completed approximately 15 acres of stream zone restoration projects along Edgewood Creek and Heavenly Valley Creek, both of which empty into Lake Tahoe. Kirkwood Mountain was noted for partnering with Sugar Pine Foundation to plant disease-resistant seedlings and promote natural growth of disease-resistant trees. Kirkwood is also recycling its food service cooking oil to make biodiesel fuel and converting all packaging material into a sugar-cane-based biodegradable version. To promote alternative energy, Kirkwood has promised to match Green Tag dollars spent by guests at the lifts to develop new wind power generation facilities. And Sierra-at-Tahoe has created Project Green Sierra, whose objectives include carpooling, running 90 percent of vehicles on biodiesel fuel and a recycling program that’s kept close to 11,000 pounds of waste out of landfills. Partnering with PG&E, the resort has also changed lighting fixtures to use compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs) and added solar panels where possible.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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65
C O N V E R S AT I O N
DONALD DEANE
The unofficial “mayor of Bolinas” serves as anchor in an often chaotic sea BY JIM WOOD DON DEANE ISN’T AN EASY GUY TO FIGURE OUT. HE OWNS BOLINAS’S HISTORIC AND SOMETIMES RAUCOUS SMILEY’S Saloon—
yet he hasn’t “had a drink in 30 years.” He’s the publisher-editor of West Marin’s ultraliberal monthly Coastal Post—yet he’s not hesitant to declare, “I believe governments are inherently bad.” And though at age 66 he’s never been married (“I came within a half a mile of it once”), he’s been a caring foster parent to literally dozens of at-risk teenagers over the past three decades. “I came to Bolinas in 1971,” Deane says in a voice so soft that at times it’s a challenge to hear. “It was just after the surge of alternative politics and hippie lifestyle.” The 28-year-old Deane, a recent psychology graduate of San Francisco State,
house,” he says. “Then, over time, I guess I just fell in love with the place.” Smiley’s Saloon, where Deane maintains an upstairs office for the Coastal Post, first opened for business in 1851; it received its current name from “Smiley” Biachini, who owned the pub in the mid-1950s. In addition to a well-worn pool table and a well-lit CD player, Smiley’s has a scarred 20-foot bar, eight spartan hotel rooms out back, two computer poker games and live weekend entertainment, and it serves as a local Internet hot spot. Deane bought Smiley’s in 1990. “While it’s not
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PHOTO: TIM PORTER
was a county juvenile probation officer at the time. “I moved here because I was fed up paying rent and hoped to buy a
hugely profitable, it’s more so now than when I took it over,” he says. Deane started the Coastal Post in 1977. The newspaper is mailed to readers throughout Marin and distributed free in newsstands as far east as Corte Madera. Recent editions featured the writings of novelist Anne Lamott, comedian Will Durst and author Norman Solomon, as well as front-page articles claiming Vice President Cheney was drunk when he shot a hunting buddy, examining the Bush administration’s plans to invade Iran, and describing how owners of medical pot clubs are being threatened with forfeiture of their property by the DEA. As a business, the paper is “a dog,” says Deane. “It’s truly my nemesis; my interest has always been in the editorial aspects, not the business end.” As for the more than 50 teenagers he’s foster-parented, “these were kids in their early teens, mostly from broken homes around the Bay Area.” Very few of them “had a problem adjusting to life in Bolinas,” he adds, and as many as a dozen still live in the area. He sees them
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regularly. “Most are successful adults raising good families. I consider that a huge victory.” How did Deane come to be known as the unofficial “mayor of Bolinas”? He chalks it up to “being visible” as the owner of the newspaper and saloon. Then he adds with a smile, “Heck, I don’t think anyone could be mayor of this town.” To get us started, would you describe your-
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self politically? In some ways, I’m conservative, but mostly, I’m fairly liberal. (Long pause.) I believe people are inherently good. If left alone they will make good choices for themselves and society. On the other hand, I believe governments are inherently bad. Much of the negative [aspect] manifests itself through governments assuming people aren’t capable of taking care of themselves. As a result, a whole structure of laws and rules have been estab-
PHOTO: TIM PORTER
lished to do just that. I know liberals are often
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responsible for much of this, but I don’t care who does it; it is wrong. Let’s not get maudlin, but briefly say what
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you’d want to see in your obituary. My most important role has been with the kids I’ve worked
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MARCH 2008
67
mate Bolinas and Stinson Beach. Hopefully, it’s
with. I’m most proud of that. As for running a
Please share your thoughts regarding the
saloon and hotel, there’s nothing terribly altru-
following: the legalization of marijuana? I think
istic there, but it has to be done and it might
the money being spent to restrict the use of mar-
President George W. Bush? I think the
as well be me doing it. My newspaper, the
ijuana is insane. The government should nei-
country is in acute distress right now because
Coastal Post, has gone through many different
ther encourage nor restrict the use of drugs or
of his policies. The war in Iraq is an abomi-
phases, but I think it has served a good pur-
alcohol. That our government restricts the use
nation. He started it with a lie, it is draining
pose. I guess I feel good about it all.
of marijuana is the weirdest phenomenon I can
our treasury, and the billions that have been
not too late to take remedial actions.
Is the Coastal Post going to make it? The
either stolen or lost in his administration are
newspaper hasn’t missed an issue in 30 years
unbelievable. In the process, our country’s rep-
now; that’s 360 issues. In the beginning we
utation has been destroyed. To me, it’s very
did maybe 300 copies. It’s always been a free
startling that we can be even talking about
monthly publication—annual subscriptions of
things like torture—and yet we’re having that
$24 just cover mailing costs—and I’m both
debate. It’s just unbelievable.
the editor and publisher and do some writ-
The 2008 presidential election? While it
ing. Circulation grew to as many as 15,000,
will be an interesting election, it’s now hard
but now we’re down to 9,000. Costs have got-
to be idealistic about our political system and
ten so high, and advertising is always a bear to
how it works. I don’t have a candidate yet.
sell. But I’m determined to keep getting it out.
But whoever is elected—and it will not be a
And your role as a foster parent? Over the
Republican—will have a very, very hard row
past 30 years, I’ve parented sometimes two or
to hoe. It will take many, many years to make
three kids at a time. I own a seven-bedroom
the corrections that will be necessary when
home on 10 acres and that’s where the kids
President Bush leaves office.
lived… I got them when they were in their
Your heroes? Rather than historic figures, I
early teens and they stayed with me until they
think people with us every day are my heroes.
“My most important role has been with the kids I’ve worked with. I’m most proud of that. As for running a saloon and hotel, there’s nothing terribly altruistic there, but it has to be done and it might as well be me doing it.”
I think members of the local Hispanic com-
Now we’re doing more collateral things at
imagine. It’s just nuts. With the money spent on
tic person. But I’m always open to the dark
Smiley’s like check cashing and Western Union
the War on Drugs—what is it, over $20 billion
side—the possibility that things will go wrong
where Hispanic [residents] send money to their
a year?—we could send a whole generation of
and the best outcome won’t happen. I think
families, that sort of thing. Also, we regularly
kids to universities like Stanford.
most people are basically good and want
were 18 or 19. Most were kids who weren’t dealt the best hand, and I always felt a home life should have some structure, boundaries and a minimum of conflict. And remember, as a bachelor, I had no one to argue with. After operating continuously for 157 years, how’s Smiley’s doing? I look on myself as the trustee of Smiley’s. It’s been up and running a pretty long time. With me, it’s survived the last 18 years, and that’s longer than most owners. The ’80s were roaring as far as drugs and alcohol are concerned. Then in the ’90s, things
munity are very heroic. I find the people who risked greatly in crossing the border to attain a better life for themselves and their families are incredible. This goes beyond the issue of illegal immigration. Any one of us would be inclined to do the same thing — to want to make our lives work and, in the process, improve the lives of our loved ones — but we may not have the raw courage to actually do it. I think those who do it are hugely heroic. What gives you hope? I’m a fairly optimis-
slowed down considerably.
have live entertainment and charge a cover.
And we spend what—$30,000 a year to
New Year’s eve we had a party featuring the
imprison someone who is caught using drugs?
French Gypsies, a nice reggae band.
That’s insane.
good things for themselves, their loved ones and others. However, I also believe, unfortunately,
A bachelor who owns a saloon is a foster
Global warming? It’s the most pressing is-
that we’ve lost our way over the last couple of
parent? How does that happen? Remember, I
sue facing West Marin. If the predicted increas-
years. I hope we can find it again. People are
haven’t had a drink in 30 years. I’m one of the
es in sea level hold true, West Marin is a goner!
enormously resilient and, given an opportuni-
10 percent who has a problem with alcohol.
The tide is expected to rise three to five meters
ty, are capable of a great deal. I’m confident
Once I realized that, I just quit.
over the next 25 to 30 years. That will deci-
we’ll find our way.
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LI F E
MARIN’S FASHION ICON Gladys Perint Palmer A woman of many talents
BY M AN DY B EH B EHAN I
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O R MO R E T H A N T WO D ECA D E S , I L LU ST R ATO R A N D
editor of the Washington Post. “You look at those illustra-
writer Gladys Perint Palmer has been gently (and some-
tions and you’re not seeing a fashion reality; you’re seeing
times not so gently) skewering the loopy denizens of the
her fanciful interpretation of it.”
international fashion world with her expressive and re-
Dame Vivienne Westwood, the English designer cred-
vealing caricatures. Exaggerating a muscle-bound John
ited with starting the punk movement, has known Palmer
Galliano in a white wifebeater, for instance, or sketching
for many years. “A fashion sketch can say more than a hun-
a fashion editor dozing in the front row of a runway show
dred photos and as much as one great photo,” she says.
with her legs apart and wearing no underwear, Palmer has
For the past 13 years, Palmer, who lives in San Rafael
often brought a much-needed irreverent eye to the rar-
and travels to Paris four times a year for the ready-to-wear
efied demimonde in which her subjects dwell.
and couture shows, has also been establishing a fash-
While her pricking of fashion’s hot-air balloon is of-
ion design program at San Francisco’s Academy of Art
ten winsome and mostly amusing, not everyone has been
University (AAU). As executive director of the School of
happy. Surely not that knickerless editor whose sketch gar-
Fashion, she reigns over a passel of instructors, most of
nered this Palmer caption: “Hazards of the front row. Cross
them working professionals.
your legs, editors, and wake up!” Certainly not movie pro-
Bringing both her academic training and her fashion
ducer Harvey Weinstein, who hated Palmer’s rendering of
industry connections to the table—she studied at the pres-
him as a rumpled, overweight man in an ill-fitting suit.
tigious Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design in
Mostly, though, fashion’s glitterati have been able to
London and at Parsons the New School for Design in New
live with Palmer’s spontaneous renderings, which have ap-
York—Palmer has instituted a rigorous design program
peared in publications from the New Yorker to Vogue. Her
and attracted big names. Paris designer Azzedine Alaïa
sketches, signed with a large GPP, were included in last
was guest of honor at the 2005 graduation fashion show
year’s 100 Years of Fashion Illustration, and The Fashion
and selected an intern from the school. Westwood re-
Book, published in 1998, included her as one of 500 peo-
ceived an honorary doctorate in 2007. Oscar de la Renta,
ple of influence in fashion since 1860. Palmer’s work is
Givhan, Suzy Menkes (acclaimed fashion editor of the
also compiled in the 2003 Assouline book Fashion People.
International Herald Tribune) and the Yves Saint-Laurent
“Gladys really captures the magic and mystery of fash-
muse Loulou de la Falaise have all visited. In May 2006,
ion,” says Robin Givhan, Pulitzer Prize–winning fashion
Palmer and the British textile designer Simon Ungless—a
MARCH 2008
AMID a dizzying array of filing cabinets, drawing tables, storage containers and buckets of crayons, pencils and erasers, Palmer sketches up her vivid and whimsical illustrations, many of which festoon the walls of her home. As you ascend the stairs you have the strange feeling Giorgio Armani or Jean Paul Gaultier might notice you’re not wearing your best underwear.
fellow Saint Martins grad and the school’s director of graduate fash-
“Maybe it’s easy to get in, but it’s not so easy to get out,” Palmer says,
ion—persuaded fashion king Alexander McQueen to fly in from Europe
with more than a hint of irony. “The people who graduate and get into
to receive an honorary doctorate and award internships to three over-
the final fashion show are so good they get jobs all over the world. While
joyed students. This coup landed AAU on the pages of industry bible
it is open enrollment at the beginning, it’s very competitive at the end.”
Women’s Wear Daily.
Palmer raided the top British art and design schools for teachers.
British designer Zandra Rhodes, known for zany clothes in clashing
Ungless, her most important hire, has been instrumental in setting up a
colors and prints, took two AAU students as interns at her American
four-year program that includes pattern cutting, design, drawing and art
headquarters near San Diego. “I knew that of all the colleges you can
history and thereby aims to give students something other schools do not.
get someone from who is right for you,
“Most schools have standardized class-
it would be AAU, because Gladys and I
es, so all students take those same sub-
have both been trained in the old school,”
jects,” Ungless says. “AAU has allowed
Rhodes says. “At AAU, it’s not about the
us to create a unique curriculum that
quick computer garbage. If you go to
takes elements from the best of what
some basic colleges around the country,
we all learned in school combined with
they lift some kind of hokey drawing of
the best from what we have learned in
a figure and have the students draw on
[the] industry.”
top of it, and basically they learn to copy. Under Gladys they learn to draw.”
As one example, he cites the symbiosis of two- and three-dimension-
Though none of Palmer’s students
al design instruction. “In many other
have become breakout successes—no lat-
programs these areas are separate,”
ter-day Marc Jacobs or Tom Ford has emerged as of yet—she’s proud
says Ungless. “We take a two-dimensional sketch through to a three-
of AAU’s worldwide success placing students in jobs and internships at
dimensional garment using flat pattern, draping and construction tech-
companies ranging from Banana Republic to Louis Vuitton to Martin
niques. We believe that design has to be partnered with 3-D design so
Margiela. Graduates hold design positions at Ralph Lauren, Burberry
that the designers can learn to make what they design.”
Prosum, Calvin Klein, Donna Karan and Zac Posen.
British-born Sara Shepherd, an AAU grad who worked at Jeremy
It’s no small achievement to entice the potential style-makers of
Scott and Pamela Dennis before starting her own women’s clothing
tomorrow to study in a city not exactly considered a fashion mecca.
business in San Francisco a year ago, says the school gave her “a wide
Furthermore, AAU is the only school to have its graduate collections
range of skills. Instead of, ‘Can I draw this on paper?’ it’s, ‘I know how
premiere on the runways during the Mercedes-Benz–sponsored spring
to do patterns, create garments, produce line sheets,’” says Shepherd,
and fall fashion weeks in New York City’s Bryant Park—the brass ring
whose clothes are sold at MAC in Hayes Valley and Eco Citizen on
for any young designer. Not even Saint Martins or Parsons can claim
Vallejo Street. “From the schools I looked at in the U.S., the techni-
that particular feat.
cal teaching—like construction and pattern making—was much better
After showing her collection in New York in the spring of 2007, AAU alum Lene Andersen landed a job at Donna Karan, where she works as a sweater designer. “I have always admired Donna Karan, and being able to work in the Collection (division) is a great opportunity,” she says.
at AAU. My senior collection, I was picked to be at AAU’s first show in Bryant Park in New York. Who gets to do that? It’s like, ‘Whoa!’ ” The success of the fashion school surprises many. “Before you visit universities and meet students, you often have a vision of fashion stu-
Karan says AAU prepares its students for the world of real fashion.
dents—that they have great enthusiasm and creativity, but in the back
“AAU makes sure its students have the talent as well as the required
of your mind you’re always wondering, what’s the quality really like?”
skills as designers,” she says. “But it also teaches them about how
says the Washington Post’s Givhan. “And there’s no question there’s a
clothes have to function and ultimately fit into a woman’s lifestyle.”
geographical bias. One assumes all serious fashion comes from Parsons
To build up AAU’s enrollment from 250 students to the current 1,500,
in New York, or from Saint Martins in London. And then you get to
Palmer took a cue from her Saint Martins mentor, Muriel Pemberton.
AAU and your jaw practically drops as you see that the students are ex-
“She always said to hire the best teachers and let them get on with it,”
traordinarily talented and incredibly creative and there’s this sense of
Palmer says in her razor-sharp English accent.
being plugged into what the fashion industry is about.”
There has been some criticism from those who say a university
Palmer’s own route to the Bay Area was circuitous. Born in Budapest
with no entrance requirements other than a high school diploma can’t
and raised in England, she studied fashion design at Saint Martins and
be worth attending—an idea Palmer energetically pooh-poohs. Some
fashion illustration at Parsons in New York. She returned to England
12 percent of AAU students are international, many of them not at all
and in 1972, after marrying her second husband, Simon, moved with
proficient in English.
him to Hong Kong. In 1980, when Simon got a job in San Francisco, the
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MARCH 2008
PALMER’S association with AAU started in
Palmers moved to the United States
was overhead saying how awful it was,” she says. “Elisa (Stephens, AAU’s
with their young son, Barnaby, who
president/owner) took me to lunch and offered me a job.”
today is artistic director of San Francisco Lyric Opera.
For a while, Palmer wondered if she had bitten off more than she could chew. “It was a bit like trying to turn the Queen Mary around,”
“When we moved here I had
she says. “I didn’t tell anyone until 1998 that I was working there be-
1995. “I went
just read Cyra McFadden’s book
cause there was nothing I was very proud of until then. I thought, peo-
to (the school’s)
The Serial and I said, ‘I don’t mind
ple will come and see the school once, but if they don’t like it they
where we live as long as it’s not in
won’t come back.”
fashion show at
Marin County,’” says Palmer, making
She had to create the most basic underpinnings of the fashion pro-
the Giftcenter and
what the French call a moue. “But
gram. “When I started I was all alone there. And you know in London
because I have a
we got here just when the prices
they do flat patterns and in Paris they drape, and I remember saying to
were so high. When we realized San
Karl Lagerfeld one day, ‘Should I go with Paris or London?’ and he said,
Francisco was going through the
‘Why not do both?’”
high-pitched voice I was overheard saying how awful
biggest housing boom yet, I started
Palmer professes herself unconcerned that no major name has yet
looking in the newspaper and I saw
emerged from the program. “It’ll happen,” she says abruptly. “Parsons
an ad for a house in Marin.”
has been going since God knows when.”
it was,” she says. “Elisa (Stephens,
Within one week they had
The Post’s Givhan says a huge éclat might not even be necessary.
bought and moved into a California
“One of the wonderful things about the school is that the students learn
ranch-style home with a pool in
you don’t have to be Marc Jacobs to have a successful and supremely
AAU’s president/
the hills of San Rafael. “At that
satisfying career. In some way it’s plugged into the head of kids who go
owner) took me
time, San Rafael was the back of
to Central Saint Martins that they have to be edgy and experimental
beyond and we could afford it,”
and incredibly progressive, and that when they graduate someone will
Palmer says. “Now, we wouldn’t
buy their entire graduation collection right then and there and they will
be able to. San Rafael was noth-
go on to fame and fortune. That’s really not reality for 99 percent of
ing then—especially the west side
people who go into the fashion industry.”
to lunch and offered me a job.”
of the freeway where we are—be-
While some of Palmer’s success at AAU can be attributed to her con-
cause Dominican was everything then. We weren’t even connected to
nections, the rest might be said to be due to her assertive, hyperpartic-
the main drain. The boys were using the loo and suddenly the washing
ular personality. Palmer’s clipped tones register annoyance at anything
machine overflowed.”
that is not to her liking.
The house, a chaotic space filled with comfy old furniture and piles
“She can be very insistent when she wants something,” says Menkes,
of books and drawings, turned out to be more of an asset than the
who wrote about AAU’s fashion program in the International Herald
Palmers imagined. “When we bought it we had no view, because the
Tribune. “Her drawings might have this insouciant tone, but Gladys her-
Armenian cobbler across the street had these great big trees that he
self is pretty tough.”
was trying to train into an arch like at Versailles,” says Palmer, laughing
Givhan agrees. “She takes photos to work off for her sketches,
as she draws arches in the air. “When he cut them down, all of a sud-
and it’s much easier [to do that] when she’s seated on the end of the
den we had a view of Mount Diablo and the water and the Richmond-
runway. [But] she’s not always assigned a seat at the end. Somehow,
San Rafael Bridge. If the house had had that view when we bought it
someone can give Gladys that end seat or she will take it, but either
we wouldn’t have been able to afford it.”
way she’ll get it.”
The Palmers built a second story to provide an office for Simon and
In Marin, Palmer’s softer side emerges. Here, she and Simon spend
a studio with northern light for Gladys. Here, amid a dizzying array
most of their time at home, eating out occasionally at restaurants like
of filing cabinets, plan chests, drawing tables, storage containers and
Lanna Thai in San Anselmo. And despite her travels to the fashion capi-
buckets of crayons, pencils and erasers, Palmer sketches up her vivid
tals of the world, she sticks close to home for her wardrobe needs, buy-
and whimsical illustrations, many of which festoon the walls of her
ing from local boutiques such as Shunzi on Fourth Street in San Rafael.
home. As you ascend the stairs you have the strange feeling Giorgio
Juggling two demanding professional lives is no easy task, and
Armani or Jean Paul Gaultier might notice you’re not wearing your best
Palmer’s explanation that she’s “good at focusing” doesn’t do justice to
underwear. Her week is divided into three days at AAU and four days
her success in both worlds.
at home working on her illustrations. Palmer’s association with AAU started in 1995. “I went to (the school’s) fashion show at the Giftcenter and because I have a high-pitched voice I
“I am impressed with her achievements,” says Menkes. “Of course her books and body of sketch work are impressive. But to have another whole career running parallel—that’s truly impressive.”
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PHOTOS SASHA GULISH ILLUSTRATOR GLADYS PERINT PALMER STYLIST PEGGI JEUNG / ARTIST UNTIED ART DIRECTOR ANNE WALZER EDITOR SOMER FLAHERTY HAIR & MAKEUP TAMARA BROWN/ARTIST UNTIED MODELS AMELIA /FORD MODELS, NINA / FORD MODELS SHOT SASHA GULISH STUDIO, SAN RAFAEL
SP R I NG I N TO
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FA S H I O N
Illustration Top by Sonia Rykiel, $630 at Bloomingdale’s (SF) 415.856.5300. Fringes of Society Hat by Kokin, $725 at Mill Valley Hat Box (Mill Valley) 415.383.2757. Sapphire necklace by Simayof, $27,250 at Simayof (SF) 415.391.0152. Table of Contents page 9, on Nina Lotus Feather Hat by Kokin, $315 at Mill Valley Hat Box. Dress by Versace, $2,435 at Barneys (SF) 415.268.3500.
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On Amelia Bathing suit by Diane von Furstenberg, $161 at M Clothing (Corte Madera) 415.924.8891. Cover-up by Diane von Furstenberg, $179 at M Clothing. Scarf by Echo Design, $78 at Macy’s (SF). Ring by Ariella Collection, $110 at Nordstrom (SF) 415.243.8500. Earrings by Anna Beck, $211 at Pearl (Larkspur) 415.464.1808. Opposite page on Nina Dress by Thakoon, $750 at Nordstrom (SF). Shoes by L.A.M.B., $335 at Nordstrom (SF). Earrings by Thalia, $1,495 at Blanc (San Anselmo).
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Dress by Tibi, $328 at Kismet (San Anselmo) 415.454.2629. Shoes by BCBGGirls, $98 at Macy’s (SF) 415.397.3333. Earrings by Thalia, $1,695 at Blanc (San Anselmo) 415.485.0104. Cuff bracelet by Mark Davis, $3,400 at Barneys (SF).
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On Amelia Top by Diane von Furstenberg, $245 at Green Apples (Sausalito) 415.331.8227. Pants by Level 99, $109 at Koze (Tiburon), 415.435.1916. Coat by Sonia Rykiel, $1,930 at Bloomingdale’s (SF). Shoes by Yves Saint Laurent, price available upon request at Yves Saint Laurent (SF) 415.837.1211. Earrings by Elsa Peretti, $450 at Tiffany & Co. (SF) 415.781.7000. Sapphire rings by Simayof, $11,500 to $15,950 at Simayof (SF).
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On Nina Top by Prada, $930 at Barneys (SF). Skirt by Hazel, $550 at Blanc (San Anselmo). Necklace by Nancy Dobbs Owens, $385 at Gala (Larkspur) 415.924.7680. Opposite page on Amelia Dress by Maria Blanca Nero, $210 at Bettina (Sausalito) 415.331.3389. Necklace by Pade Varra, $407 at Blanc. Shoes by Sergio Rossi, $395 at Bloomingdale’s (SF). Earrings by Marjorie Baer, $45 at Nordstrom. Opposite page on Nina Dress by Lanvin, $2,385 at Susan of Burlingame (Burlingame) 650.347.0452. Earrings by Elsa Peretti, $450 at Tiffany & Co. (SF). Cuff by Mark Davis, $5,650 at Barneys (SF).
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On Amelia Blouse by Marc Jacobs, $705 at Barneys (SF). Suit by Ports, $325 and $450 at Pearl (Larkspur). Wonton couture hat by Daniella De Romanos, $650 at Mill Valley Hat Box (Mill Valley). Purse by Marc Jacobs, $895 at Nordstrom (SF). Earrings, $58 at Nordstrom. Ring by Rebecca, $445 at Nordstrom (SF). Bracelet by Nancy Dobbs Owens, $410 at Gala (Larkspur).
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On Nina Dress by Collective Clothing, $64 at Red Dot (Mill Valley) 415.383.6900. Jacket by Tahari, $248 at Macy’s (SF). Shoes by BCBGGirls, $98 at Macy’s (SF). Ring by Rebecca, $350 at Nordstrom (SF). Earrings by Elsa Peretti, $495 at Tiffany & Co. (SF).
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MAP C REATED BY TIM REED
T H I NK
D e so l a t e Fa r a l l o n Isl a n d s a t t r a c t t h e t a l e n t e d a n d t e n a c i o u s
BY J I M WO O D
MARIN’S WESTERN
NEIGHBORS “I’m getting awfully tired of this loneliness. It’s as bad as being in a state prison.” —Amos Clift, Farallon Islands, lighthouse keeper, 1859
N
not much has changed on the Farallones since lighthouse keeper Amos Clift’s time there. The islands are still a lonely place for humans (although seabirds find plenty of feathered company). But for the few who venture there, the isolation is more than offset by the wild beauty of the land and the dominance of nature. The Farallon Islands (or Farallones, in the Spanish plural form of the
name) are a dozen or so brutish outcroppings of an undersea mountain
range 20 miles south of Point Reyes and 27 miles west of the Golden Gate Bridge. Most of the islands are little more than exposed rocks. Case in point: Middle Farallon Island is so small it’s nicknamed “the Pimple.” Only 120-acre Southeast Farallon Island, rising more than 300 feet above the water, is
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considered habitable. The tiny archipelago is staggered along the edge of the continental shelf in waters that measure 300 feet deep but within a few miles plunge to depths of two miles and more. Those lucky Marin residents who’ve been there say a calm day on the Farallones is when winds howl at only 30 knots and the waves crest at 15 feet. The sun shines, at best, only one in four days. The islands were named by a Spanish explorer—farallon means “rocky promontory rising from the sea”—but local mariners, wary of the islands’ menacing appearance and of the dangerous
OPPOSITE : Marine map showing California coastal contours from Monterey to north of Point Reyes. ABOVE : Aerial photo of Farallon Islands on a clear day.
shoals, refer to the Farallones as “the Devil’s Teeth.” Today, the biologists who work on the islands, studying teeming colonies of seabirds and ocean mammals, look on the land as more be-
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nign—a bounteous natural laboratory they call the “the
National Reservation, which in 1969 became the Farallon
Galapagos of California.”
Islands National Wildlife Refuge.
From Drake to Theodore Roosevelt
gan playing a critical role in the Farallones’ fate.
It was about this time that several Marin residents be-
Europeans discovered the Farallones 41 years before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock and nearly 200 years
San Francisco and the U.S. Government
before the first European, Jose Francisco Ortega, saw San
Considering how remote the Farallones are—no more than
Francisco Bay. On July 23, 1579, Sir Francis Drake pulled
eight people are allowed on Southeast Farallon Island at
anchor near Tomales Bay and was headed home via the
once—they hardly lack for governmental jurisdictions. The
Far East; the next day his ship, the Golden Hind, passed by
islands are actually located within the boundaries of the
the Farallones. Wanting seal meat and seabird eggs, Drake
city of San Francisco. The surrounding water (300 feet be-
or possibly one of his crew was the first to set foot on
yond the mean high tide line) comprises the 1,281-square-
Southeast Farallon Island. The islands got their name in
mile Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary,
1603 from Spain’s Sebastian Vizcaino, the first explorer to
which includes Tomales Bay in Marin County. A support-
chart “the rocks.”
ing nonprofit organization, the Farallon Marine Sanctuary
In the ensuing years, hunters from first New England,
Association, maintains an informational center about the
then Russia were drawn to the Farallones, seeking the
islands at San Francisco’s Crissy Field. “Short of a three-
luxuriant pelts of the Northern fur seal, which they hunt-
hour boat trip that often gets rough, this is as up close and
ed nearly to extinction. During the Gold Rush, eggs from
personal as many will ever get to the Farallon Islands,”
the islands’ birds fed the booming city of San Francisco.
says sanctuary spokesperson and Corte Madera resident
A thriving (and fractious) island industry existed for
Mary Jane Schramm.
more than 25 years, at its peak removing half a million eggs a month. In 1853, a lighthouse was built atop 348-foot-high Tower Hill on Southeast Farallon Island, and two stone
The islands are controlled by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which contracts out biological research and caretaking operations to PRBO Conservation Science, a Petaluma nonprofit once known as Point Reyes Bird Observatory.
homes for the lighthouse keepers and their families
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were constructed at the hill’s base. The lighthouse is
PRBO Conservation Science
now automated, but biologists still use the houses. In
“The Point Reyes Bird Observatory was founded in 1965,”
1909, President Theodore Roosevelt created the Farallon
explains PRBO Conservation Science president and CEO
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One of the structures on the Farallones used to house staff and volunteers for brief stays. Only eight people are allowed on the island at one time. OPPOSITE TOP : View from the sea when approaching the islands. OPPOSITE BELOW : Basking sea lions are a common sight on the rocky shores of the Farallones.
Ellie M. Cohen of San Anselmo. “Two years ago, due to a surge in demand for our services, we updated our name and moved into our 20,000-square-foot San Francisco Bay Research Center along the banks of the Shollenberger marsh in Petaluma.” The organization still operates its original Palomarin center a few miles outside Bolinas. The organization examines the relationship between marine birds and mammals, develops “oiled bird” procedures in use throughout the world and establishes streamside habitats that protect breeding songbirds. “Although the Farallones are a primary focus, we’ve implemented research in areas as varied as Antarctica and California’s Central Valley,” says Cohen. The group’s annual $6.7 million budget supports a staff of 65 scientists, 55 seasonal biologists and 85 conservation interns, though not all funds and resources go to the Farallones. PRBO Conservation Science has managed research and operations at the Farallones since 1968. “There are few places on earth where sci-
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entists can ask the kinds of questions about environmental change that PRBO addresses out on the Farallones,” says Cohen. December through March, research focuses on northern elephant seals; April through August, mostly on seabirds; and September through November, on migratory songbirds and great white sharks. The Farallones are home to a quarter of a million seabirds, including common murres, western gulls, Brandt’s cormorants, tufted puffins and Cassin’s auklets, and thousands of pinnipeds, such as California
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and steller sea lions, northern elephant seals and the once
Marin Volunteers
nearly extinct Northern fur seal. The surrounding waters
Henry Corning made the first of many trips to the
are populated by whales (Blue, Humpback and Orca),
Farallones in 1978. “It started with a bunch of seagoing
porpoises (Harbor and Dall’s), dolphins (White-sided and
volunteers we called the Farallon Patrol,” says the Corte
Risso’s) and, in the fall, an estimated two dozen great
Madera venture capitalist. “We ferried biologists and their
white sharks. For the past 40 years, Farallon researchers
supplies out to the islands.” Corning figures he’s made
have logged their daily wildlife sightings into a carefully
the three-hour trip to the islands more than 150 times. In
maintained journal.
1990, after he’d begun a life partnership with artist Glenda
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For the Birds, a nesting habitat designed and assembled by Henry Corning and Glenda Griffith of Corte Madera.
Griffith, the couple’s collaborative studio, Meadowsweet
seals,” Whitefield adds. “Also, chinks have to be left in
Dairy, spent more than a year designing, permitting and
the retaining wall so the Ashy storm-petrel and Brandt’s
assembling For the Birds, a nesting habitat they refer to as
cormorant will nest there.”
“environmental art.” “We worked with Fish and Wildlife Services and PRBO
the stomach-turning boat ride, visitors are treated to a 30-
and it was funded by the Haas Creative Work Fund,”
foot crane ride in order even to get onto Southeast Farallon
Griffith says. “We built a stainless steel framework that
Island, where they face routine water shortages and a
had to be helicoptered out to the Southeast Farallon
steady diet of lousy weather—Whitefield says he’s “stoked”
Island.” Once secured to an existing concrete foundation,
every time he’s there. “It’s a whole other world, in a whole
the frame was covered in rubble to look as natural as pos-
other century,” he says. “In every way, it’s just beautiful.”
sible. “A small door allows biologists to go inside the habi-
That raw beauty is what draws Marjorie Siegel of Mill
tat,” says Corning, “and, in a non-threatening way, monitor
Valley to work as a volunteer on the Farallones. Since
the [nesting] process.” Within months several species were
1993, Siegel has been visiting the islands every chance
FROM LEFT : Venture
nesting inside the structure.
she gets and doing whatever work is given her. “I always
capitalist Henry Corning, artist Glenda Griffith, Bolinas stonemason Charles Whitefield, Mill Valley volunteer Marjorie Siegel.
More recently, Corning and Griffith created a 50-
wanted to go out there,” she says. Over a three-day stay in
square-foot wood-framed, copper-covered biologist’s ob-
2002, she helped biologists inventory the bird population.
servation hut that soon took on a green moss-like patina.
“We pretty much verified there are 250,000 birds and a
“The settlement from a Southern California oil spill fund-
dozen different species,” she says.
ed this one,” says Griffith, 51, who’s made more than 40
“She’s delightful,” sanctuary spokesperson Schramm
trips to the Farallones. “And again, it’s both functional and
says of Siegel. “She’s as meticulous as a scientist, without
artistic,” says Corning, 64, “with a carefully chosen loca-
the ego that’s often part of the package.”
tion. Biologists can observe the Common murre close up
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in its island setting and the birds don’t feel threatened.”
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Despite the hardships of working on the islands—after
In 2006, Siegel and two other volunteers, working for the USFWS, eradicated a patch of New Zealand spinach, an
Working with Corning and Griffith on this second
invasive weed that had found its way onto the island and
environmental art installation was Bolinas stonema-
was taking over several nesting habitats. “That was a two-
son Charles Whitefield, 50, whom Griffith describes as
week stay,” she says, “and the camaraderie among those
a “godsend to the islands.” Whitefield’s current project
working out there was so great I wanted to stay longer.”
is restoring the historic rock trail leading from the stone
At times, Siegel admits, life on the Farallones can bring
houses up to the lighthouse. “It’s a quarter of a mile long
on a bit of claustrophobia: “Knowing you don’t control
and has to be rebuilt so that it encourages birds to nest
how or when you’ll get off the island can be an issue.” But
in it,” he says. That is no small task because, in order
that unease quickly disappears in the natural wonder of
to protect the delicate environment, the trail, built origi-
the place. “On a clear night, off in the distance you can see
nally in the early 1850s, had to be reconstructed without
city lights and you feel like you’re on a different planet. It’s
using concrete. “Researchers will use [the trail] daily in
magical. When you’re on the Farallones, you’re in a place
the fall to monitor great white shark attacks on Elephant
where nature dominates.”
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H OME
STORY P. J. BREMIER PHOTOS BARBARA RIES
sustainable living in style M I L L VA L L E Y FA M I LY C R E AT E S D R E A M H O U S E S U R R O U N D E D BY T R E E S
For Ariel Englander, it was love at first sight. The art dealer and gallery director had flown in from the East Coast to look at a Mill Valley home she and her husband, Peter, had just signed a contract to purchase, sight unseen. It wouldn’t be the home she would fall in love with, though. She would find her dream property later on a serendipitous jog the day before she returned home, one that took her to the end of a sunny cul-de-sac with a gorgeous view of Panoramic Ridge. “I stopped to look at the view and when I turned around, I saw the “for sale” sign on this little cinder-block building,” she says. “It just had an amazing feeling, like it was a tree house in the redwoods, but without being in the dark. I fell in love with it immediately.” “It all started to sound very familiar,” says Peter Englander, describing how his wife described her fabulous find to him by telephone. That’s because only a few months earlier he had found the same house
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online. Its privacy and location had appealed to him, but its small build-
Greenwich, Connecticut, for four years. After completing that proj-
ing pad and steep slope held no appeal for his local real estate agent,
ect, he began looking online for a home in Mill Valley. “I just like Mill
who dissuaded him from buying it.
Valley—the weather, the light, the feeling of being at the base of Mount
The next day, before Ariel’s plane had even touched down, her husband had purchased the property.
Tam, the proximity to Stinson Beach and the city,” he says. “It’s a town I can hang out in.” He chose Mill Valley architect Francis Gough to create a design re-
Making Mill Valley home
placing the existing 800-square-foot one-bedroom one-bath dwelling
Peter Englander has developed an appreciation for special properties. He
style home.
with a 2,500-square-foot two-story, four-bedroom, four-bath modern-
spent three years on the East Coast as a builder for a real estate compa-
“It’s a very steep lot and it crosses the slope from side to side rather
ny before launching his own award-winning luxury home company, Box
than front to rear, so it was challenging,” Gough says. “But the opportu-
Canyon Builders, in Telluride, which he now operates in Mill Valley. The
nity was there to create a building with an almost tree-house-like effect.
couple’s time there was supposed to be brief, “just until Ariel and I got ski-
It’s just a rectangle, a simple concept really, but very well executed. It fit
ing out of our system,” he says, but the birth of their two children and the
all the zoning requirements with no variances.” The design was so har-
success of his company kept them rooted in the Rockies for a decade.
monious that both the neighbors and the city embraced it immediately.
They finally made it to Mill Valley, their ultimate destination,
“As a builder, especially a builder doing my own house, I had my
but not until he “got an offer I couldn’t refuse” building mansions in
own ideas,” says Englander, “but from a design standpoint, the mass,
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LEFT : Wall of glass separates the living
area from outdoor deck. ABOVE : Concrete foundation wall serves as anchoring element in kitchen. BELOW : Dining area is open to kitchen and family/living room and has views of outside landscape.
the scale, the windows and how it worked on site, that’s Francis. He’s a really smart, talented designer who doesn’t force his will on you and he’s really knowledgable about local codes and the approval process.” Englander may have built mansions for others, but he wanted his home to be smaller. “Personally, I don’t feel the need to have more of a house than we require,” he says. “It’s easier to maintain and doesn’t use a lot of energy.” His wife likes the size, too: “I can cook, Peter can read the newspaper and the kids can do their homework all in the same space.” He did want an efficient open plan for the main floor, with lots of volume, high ceilings and minimal reliance on circulation space; there’s only one staircase and a small hall. A tall wall of rolling glass doors “borrows” space from the outdoors to give Ariel the “tree house” feeling she’d liked so much. To keep the interior space fluid, the rectangular shape of the house and exterior siding is subtly repeated in the interior flooring, hardware, and lighting; the top lines of the built-in cabinetry reflect the lines of the windows.
A mudroom near the front door conveniently collects personal belongings, keeping the living areas clutter-free, and the kitchen is designed not to look like one. “I built it so it was more like a living room,” Englander says. Appliances and a recycling center are integrated behind furniturestyle wood cabinetry; the cooktop is low profile and the hood is re-
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TOP : Peter England-
er’s office continues the theme of verdant views. BELOW : The master bathroom has a unique design with separate closets and bathrooms for Peter and Ariel incorporating a large glassenclosed shower as the common shared element. OPPOSITE UPPER : Englander family gather on the deck, from left, son Peter Henry, Ariel, Peter, and daughter Jeannine; LOWER : powder room with sink created from granite set on a slab of tumbled flagstone.
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cessed into the soffit. The metallic wall tiles seamlessly refer to the exposed foundation wall and the living room’s golden Venetian plaster refers back to the tiles. Peter Englander’s office in the rear, overlooking a wooded glen, takes concealment to yet another level; the entry door is disguised as a swing-away bookcase. Upstairs, visitors stay in a guest room that doubles as a media room and the children have a bedroom on either side of a Jack-and-Jill bathroom. The master suite includes a private balcony that provides a view of the fog rolling in over Panoramic Ridge; separate dressing areas; and his-and-hers bathrooms clad in a honey-colored onyx, with a shared walk-in shower. The room is a favorite room of Ariel’s; “it feels like a little spa,” she notes.
Steeped in green “There are a lot of things that can be done simply to make a house green,” Gough says, and this house took advantage of enough of them to qualify for the highest LEED-certified rating of platinum. One dramatic green feature is the exposed, hand-finished concrete foundation that forms the rear wall of the kitchen. It gives the house a very cool industrial look while requiring no additional surface materials. The roof and floor systems are made of engineered lumber; the siding, deck, and exterior doors and windows are clad in Forest Stewardship Council–certified western red cedar, while the inside doors, windows, trim and cabinetry are made of FSC-certified vertical-grain Douglas fir. Because the north side of the house is built into the hill, an even temperature is maintained, eliminating the need for ductwork, fans and air conditioning. Other environmental pluses are an Energy Star roof and appliances, compact fluorescent lights and lights on dimmer switches, upgraded insulation, insulation-compatible recessed lighting fixtures, bamboo floors, EcoResin and Vetrazzo countertops, radiant floor heating, low-VOC finishes, a hot water recirculation pump and a high-efficiency boiler. Outside, Englander designed an eco-friendly garden. No irrigation is needed for the deer-resistant, poor-soil-tolerant plantings, and there was minimal disturbance of existing plants. “I limited my choices to what would grow here with no help and even built around two oaks,” he says. These grow through cutaways in both the deck and the overhang, which can be expanded as the trees age. The Englanders plan to age here, too. “Peter’s built some projects for us in the past but they always ended up [being] for someone else. This is supposed to be our last house,” Ariel says with a laugh. “This one’s for us, and there’s nothing middle-of-the-road about it.”
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J O U R NEY
WILD LUXURY IN
A
s a British colony, Kenya had a romantic, raffish, even rather risqué history dating from the late 19th century. Tourists were until recently regaled with Isak Dinesen’s tales of the colonial past or lured by big game trophy hunting à la Ernest Hemingway. Safari accommodations consisted mainly of hunting lodges or fly camps. Guides doubled as hunters and often shot for the pot. Today the rough-and-ready safari tents are gone, replaced by luxury camps, lodges and world-class resorts on the Indian Ocean, and the hunting is sustainable, with cameras substituting for rifles and the wildlife living to be photographed another day. Kenya is a developing country that chose to skip the 20th century, going straight from the 19th century to the
21st. Bypassing telephone lines, Kenya leaped right to satellite. The bush camps have better cell phone reception
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KENYA
STORY & PHOTOS BY SARA GODWIN
OPPOSITE : Watch the sun slip
away in a classic sundowner setting in the Maasai Mara. TOP RIGHT : A frequent sight on the savanna is the male impala with lyre-shaped horns. BOTTOM : Brilliant colors characterize the bustling native market at Talek, just outside the Olare Orok Conservancy.
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PAGE 76: Guanajuato
at dusk. CLOCKWISE FROM UPPER LEFT :
Golden churros and hot chocolate, a local treat; detail overlooking the Jardin with the Parroquia in the background, San Miguel; one of many local musicians; narrow streets of San Miguel de Allende at night.
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AN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE WAS FOUNDED IN 1542
Since then, the American and Canadian expat population
and sits at 6,000 feet in the mountains about 100 miles
has grown to about 10,000 residents (in a population of
north of Mexico City. With a pending UNESCO World
80,000), who have decided that the mild mountain climate,
Heritage status, the town appears mostly as it did a century
art scene and laid-back atmosphere suit them well.
ago: narrow cobblestone streets that wind through neigh-
We spent our first week in a rented apartment a few min-
borhoods full of homes brightly painted in the Spanish co-
utes’ walk from the middle of town, commonly known as El
lonial style of its wealthy silver mining past.
Jardin, or the garden. The Jardin is San Miguel’s literal and
San Miguel received an influx of expatriates after World
psychological center; it is here that the heart of the place
War II, when many former GIs discovered their educa-
beats. Every day residents find time to sit on the wrought-iron
tion grants stretched further at the town’s 57-year-old art
benches under the lush trees in the shadow of La Parroquia,
school, Instituto Allende, than at home in the United States.
Church of St. Michael the Archangel (constructed in 1683),
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OPPOSITE PAGE : Leopards frequently hang out in trees and sometimes drag their kill into trees to protect it from
lions and hyenas. UPPER LEFT : The writer’s quarters at Larsens Tented Camp just outside the Samburu Game Reserve. RIGHT : Classic African luxury with scattered fresh flowers on the bed at Mfangano Island Camp.
than parts of Marin. Solar power runs laptops, cell phones and digital cameras. The solar-heated water at Il Ngwesi Lodge was so hot I had to wait until the water cooled down enough to shower. Kenya’s land conservancy solutions function as a six-way win—for the country, the land, the animals, the citizens, the outfitters and visitors. Tribal peoples lease their land to outfitters, allowing people to retain ownership and have a reliable income. Outfitters enjoy exclusive access to the wildlife on the conservancy territory. Visitors can witness more varieties of wildlife in greater numbers. The wildlife has vast stretches of land available for habitat. Kenya’s ecosystems and native vegetation flourish. Done properly, safaris aren’t restful. They are grippingly exciting, deeply absorbing and steeped in adventure. Knowing this, I found the itinerary for this particular safari intriguing. It offered a 50-50 split between big game watching and serenely exotic resorts—Lewa Downs Wildlife Conservancy, Larsens Camp at Samburu, Porini Lion Camp in the Olare Orok Conservancy in the Maasai Mara, the elegant Mfangano Island Camp on Lake Victoria, the sexy Sands at Nomad on the South Coast’s Diani Beach, and the kickedback Kipungani Explorer in a secluded cove on Lamu Island.
Lewa Downs: Protecting Wildlife A small charter plane took me from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to the dirt landing strip at Lewa Downs Wildlife Conservancy. Ian Craig, a Kenyan born and bred, has partnered with the local tribal communities in dedicating his family’s 45,000 acres to wildlife preservation. Lewa Downs now sports one of the largest populations of both white and black rhino to be found anywhere in Africa, as well as 61 different mammals and 440 species of birds. Just bouncing along the track from the airstrip to the luxurious Il Ngwesi Lodge, I saw more game than most people see in a week in Africa, from reticulated giraffes to endangered Grevy’s zebra to crowned cranes and hadada ibis. In the 12 years since the conservancy was established, poaching has been nearly eradicated and the wildlife has thrived so well that some species are sent to restock other reserves. Each guest at Il Ngwesi Lodge stays in a freestanding thatched banda with a spacious sleeping area, the bed romantically draped in white mosquito netting, a beautiful en suite bathroom (with a flush toilet), a luxurious outdoor shower of natural stone, and a huge terrace overlooking a game trail below. Lunch on the stone terrace by the swimming pool was delightful—it featured a memorable dessert finished with a bright yellow passion fruit coulis—but by the end of the meal I wanted only to sleep off my jet lag with an afternoon nap. A new airstrip, much closer to Il Ngwesi, is in the works, but I loved the drive in. It felt like falling into Africa headfirst. Only moments after stepping off the plane I spotted several of the rare animals I’d most hoped to see.
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BOTTOM : Bright colors set off the bright smile of this young Maasai girl. RIGHT : Zebra pause to drink water at a stream near the Porini Lion Camp in the Maasai Mara. BFAR RIGHT : Blue door leads into a private apartment on Lamu Island on Kenya’s North Coast.
Larsens Camp: A Taste of the Past
Porini Lion Camp: The Conservancy Game
Located just outside the Samburu Game Reserve, Larsens Camp is an up-
Animals are either diurnal or nocturnal, with their paths intersecting at
scale version of the old-style tented camps. The Uaso Nyiro River runs
dawn and dusk. That’s when game watching is at its best, so game drives
through the camp and vervet monkeys scamper about everywhere. I was
at the Porini Lion Camp in the Maasai Mara begin early. Morning light also
given strict instructions that when the hot coffee, tea and biscuits were
makes for wonderful photography, so at 5:30 a.m. the staff delivered a
delivered to my tent in the morning, I was to zip up the tent door in-
tray of hot tea and biscuits, along with a reminder that the game drive left
stantly lest the monkeys get in and wreak havoc.
in 30 minutes. At Porini I saw more varieties of wildlife in greater num-
The first drive into Samburu yielded views of a magnificent leopard
bers than I have ever seen anywhere in Africa: huge herds of Cape buf-
in a tree, lions mating, red-billed hornbills courting, and a long-necked
falo, wildebeest and zebra; Thomson’s gazelles, impala and topi; giraffes,
gerenuk stretching to nibble leaves off a tree.
elephants and hippos; lions and cheetah, even a bat-eared fox. Riding into the camp, I watched two topi newborns scramble to their feet. Both wobbled uncertainly, then turned to nurse as their mothers licked them clean. A herd of more than 50 elephants with yearlings and babies snacked their way along a stream, ambling down the bank to drink. A half dozen hippos played hide-and-seek from the camera, leaving me with photos of nothing but bubbles as they disappeared underwater. Maasai men are known for the striking red cloth they wear around their waists and over one shoulder. I was disappointed when our group decided to go to the nearest town in order to buy some of the fabric because it meant giving up a game drive, but halfway there the guide remembered that it was market day so the town would be crowded with people. It suddenly sounded a lot more interesting. The Maasai Mara is the Kenyan portion of the famed Serengeti plain, divided by the Mara River and inhabited by the Maasai tribe. It’s mostly open grasslands with rolling hills, not unlike some parts of Marin. As in Marin, the grasses turn green after the seasonal rains, then dry to pale brown. The contrast between the sere landscape and the bright colors of the market made for a visual feast. Women were dressed in brilliant reds, yellows and blues and pinks. Their elaborately beaded collars, necklaces, bracelets and intricate foot-long earrings were equally colorful. Returning to camp, I sat rapt in the fading light as a male lion and five lionesses challenged a Cape buffalo. The buffalo responded with a false charge that brought it within a few yards of the lion. The lion roared, then backed away. The buffalo shambled off. Nobody got hurt. Kenya’s spectacular sunsets have given rise to “sundowners,” the immensely civilized practice of enjoying drinks and hors d’oeuvres while watching the sun slip below the horizon. A lovely way to end the day. Porini saved the best for last. On our last day, we left very early in order to get in some game watching on the way to the landing strip. We stopped to photograph a huge herd of Cape buffalo, which slowly edged nearer until they surrounded the game vehicle. We managed to back out without incident. Wildebeest by the hundreds covered the savanna. We spotted a hyena, trotting along with a huge chunk of fresh kill clamped in its jaws. A herd of zebras watched the hyena approach, seemingly un-
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concerned. Suddenly, the zebras stampeded, and with them, dozens of wildebeest. Need I say that we were late getting to the plane? Fortunately, it was a charter; it waited.
Winding Down Barely a 40-minute flight from the Maasai Mara is another world: Mfangano Island Camp on Lake Victoria. The food is superb, the gardens lush, the only sound birdsong. A boat trip out to the Bird Islands was remarkable for the sheer numbers of snowy egrets and long-necked cormorants, which nest there by the thousands. During my breakfast on the camp’s dock, a particularly bold fish eagle dived down to snatch a piece of bacon right off my plate. That took birding to a whole new level. Rested and relaxed, we headed to Kenya’s South Coast, specifically Diani Beach. The
IF YOU GO ■ MagicalKenya.com ■ African Quest Safaris Ltd. africanquest.co.ke info@africanquest.co.ke ■ Virgin Atlantic San Francisco to Nairobi (via London) 888.937.8474
Sands at Nomad is everything a world-class beach resort hotel should be: mile after mile of clean, uncrowded beaches and warm, clear ocean. Convinced that we could hardly get more laid-back, we flew to Lamu, an island off Kenya’s North Coast. Lamu has no cars; donkeys and dhows are the preferred forms of transportation. Tucked into a sandy cove, Kipungani Explorer offers private thatched beach chalets. I wandered on the beaches picking up architect’s sundials and cowries. Lamu is a Swahili-Arab city with a thousand years of history. Women veiled and unveiled walk the narrow lanes, past intricately carved wooden doors; young boys duck into shops with metal signs declaring “Internet Cafe” or “Cell Phones” in English and Arabic. The past and the future coexist in the present.
Editor’s note: In response to the recent unrest in Kenya, the State Department has issued a travel alert for the country. Get the latest security information at http://travel.state.gov or call 888.407.4747.
Any trip has three parts: the anticipation, the reality and the memories. On this trip, I eagerly anticipated seeing how safaris in Kenya have changed: they’re better than ever. I reveled in every moment of the trip, both the places I’d been before, like Samburu and the Maasai Mara, and the places that were new to me, like Diani Beach and Lamu. I’d go back to Kenya in a minute. And the memories? They’ll last me the rest of my life.
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PH OTO CRED IT: JMC F IR /RIC WAL LIS
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What is
ECOTOURISM in 2008? BY MIMI TOWLE
Does it mean a dune buggy ride through the Sahara (sorry, that was the ’70s), an ATV adventure in Costa Rica, a LEED-certified eco-lodge accessible only by canoe…or is it a simply a trip where ecology is part and parcel of the deal? Here’s what four local travel industry experts have to say on environmentally savvy travel now.
“E
cotourism originally began with backpack-
ing and frugal travelers who
“W
e are wary of the term ecotourism.
The hype seems to have
“E
cotourism encompasses a broad scope
of travel options, which can
“E
cotourism means traveling responsibly
wherever one goes. It means
desired to connect with the
died down a little in the past
range from a small group
caring for the people and
land. In the past decade or
few years, but we never got
traveling to a remote village
the natural and historical
so, the idea of ecotourism
on the trendy but rickety
in Thailand to give a family a
features of the region you
has evolved to include both
bandwagon, and we
water buffalo (popular with
visit. It means having one’s
upmarket resorts and back-
don’t intend to. Slapping
religious groups) to an eco-
eyes wide open to the effect
packer lodges. Today, it is
“eco-” onto a destination,
kayaking trip in Healdsburg
one has on a place, because
nature-based tourism that
resort or tour usually doesn’t
to explore and learn about
no matter what, no matter
respects the environment
serve any purpose, except
the ecology of the Russian
how well intentioned one is,
and [operates a] tourism fa-
perhaps to make people
River. The concept of envi-
by definition there is an ef-
cility in an environmentally
think that they are doing
ronmentally friendly hos-
fect. Make it a good one or
responsible manner; it also
something [positive],which
pitality has been thriving
at least as good as it can be.
works to help the local com-
in many cases they prob-
in Europe for decades; it
Remember that travel is or
munity and respects cultural
ably aren’t (true worst case:
seems to be just catching on
should be an inherently pos-
integrity.”
there’s a 2,000-room, five-
here in the States.”
itive act that opens people’s
—Mike Freed, managing partner, Passport Resorts
course “eco-golf” resort in Malaysia). We’re absolutely
—Bob McMillen, CEO and cofounder, Travel Wizard
eyes and minds to other people with different values
committed to responsible
and expectations, and that
travel, as a matter of heart,
this is a very good thing.”
and as a matter of course.” —Tom Cole,
—Tom Hale, founder and president, Backroads
writer in residence, Geographic Expeditions
OPPOSITE LEFT: Resident naturalist at Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort shares his knowledge. OPPOSITE RIGHT: Young adventurers get an up-close
view of the Galapagos pinniped population. OPPOSITE LOWER: Clear waters of Savusavu Bay surrounding Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort.
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M
arin-based Mike Freed started Passport Resorts LLC with his partner Peter Heinemann in 1992. Their roster includes Post Ranch
Back in 2004 the [Fiji Islands] resort launched the Savusavu Community Foundation, which provides free
Inn, Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort, Hotel Hana-
health, educational and environmental infrastructure
Maui, Sea Ranch Lodge and (beginning in May 2008)
assistance to local Fiji residents.
Cavallo Point–the Lodge at the Golden Gate, at Fort Baker.
While all Passport properties are upscale and eco-chic, one in particular
resort helps preserve. And back in 2004 the resort launched the Savusavu
has been grabbing the green light: last November the Fiji Islands Resort
Community Foundation, which provides free health, educational and envi-
got the nod as Forbes.com’s “Best Environmentally Correct Resort.” It
ronmental infrastructure assistance to local Fiji residents.
was also number one on tripadvisor.com’s “World’s Best Environmentally
Tom Cole, a mountain man by predilection, recently returned from a
Friendly Accommodation” list last spring (Post Ranch Inn came in
Geographic Expeditions trip to the Galapagos thoroughly enamored of the
third), showed up on Condé Nast Traveler’s 2006 Gold List and, just last
experience. “I had forgotten how much fun it is to be aboard a fine ship,
December, won Islands magazine’s Global Sustainable Tourism award.
and nothing prepares one for the astonishing diversity of the islands, or the
“Over the past few years, we’ve witnessed an increasing interest in
up-close encounters with wildlife,” says Cole, 30-year travel leader with the
the environment among the public at large, both in general and among
company. “We’re the first to acknowledge that bringing travelers to this spe-
travelers,” says Freed. “At the same time there’s been an increasing rec-
cial place has environmental and cultural impacts,” he says. “However, we
ognition, awareness and appreciation of the broad and diverse range of
fervently believe our voyages play a vital role in creating sustainable tour-
[the Fiji resort’s] efforts that have been under way for years—long be-
ism, which in turn creates an incentive to protect the resource.”
fore they gained critical mass among the public.” Examples include the
GeoEx’s clients tour the islands on the brand-new 48-passenger yacht
bures, bungalow-like traditional Fijian-style guest rooms that tread lightly
La Pinta. The ship, designed from the hull up specifically for Galapagos
on the fragile ecosystem; a one-acre fresh vegetable garden; and beauti-
travel, has both luxurious staterooms and state-of-the-art eco-friendly
ful lagoons that double as state-of-the-art waste management systems. A
features like quieter low-CO2-emission engines and an onboard desali-
staff marine biologist guides guests through unique dive spots, which the
nization plant. The islands are “a great destination for families,” adds
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Marin Office: 600 Miller Avenue, Mill Valley Ph: 415-461-7812
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San Francisco Office: 1700 California Street, Suite 570 Ph: 415-673-9199
Please visit our website for a schedule of our FREE seminars. www.laurelivf.com
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
Organizations that are making a difference Students can do environmen-
natural habitats on all seven con-
Founded in 1976, Habitat for
Conservancy (malamahawaii.
tal research and gain academic
tinents while supporting the
Humanity has built more than
org/get_involved/volunteer.php).
credit on expeditions with the
group’s efforts around the world
225,000 houses around the
Help preserve biodiversity
Earthwatch Institute
(worldwildlife.org/travel/
world. Volunteer locally or join
hot spots with Conservation
(earthwatch.org).
index.cfm).
the Global Village program to
International’s
spend your vacation building a
ecotourism program (ecotour.org/xp/ecotour).
Those with only a week to spare
Work side by side with locals
home in a different country
(spring break, perhaps?) can get
as an international volunteer
(habitat.org).
involved with the Sierra Club’s
with Cross-Cultural Solutions
Sierra Student Coalition,
(crossculturalsolutions.org).
Established in 1958, the cross.Students seeking an alternative
cultural exchange program
to spring break at the beach can
Operation Crossroads Africa
leadership training programs
Help communities around the
volunteer with Break Away
gives young North Americans
throughout the country
world restore artifacts of
(alternativebreaks.org).
the opportunity to work at the
(ssc.org/t/sprogs.htm).
cultural importance and pro-
which runs environmental
grassroots level with young
mote responsible tourism via the
Help preserve Hawaii’s natu-
Africans. The founder envisioned
Take your next vacation as a
Cultural Restoration Tourism
ral areas and wildlife by get-
young people “building bridges
member of World Wildlife
Project (crtp.net).
ting involved with the Nature
of friendship to Africa” (operationcrossroadsafrica.org).
Fund and see animals in their
Lif ting “BUGS & BULBS”
the
human
spirit
through
sculpture “NATURES FRIENDS” BRONZE
BRONZE
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Carbon Offsetting Make up for all the CO2 emissions you can’t avoid by offsetting your carbon output. Check out these sites to find out how your financial donations can help build new clean and renewable energy projects, displace electricity from fossil fuels and reduce other greenhouse gas emissions: atmosfair.de betterworldclub.com/links/offsets.htm nativeenergy.com goldstandard.com GeoEx president Jim Sano. “There are special activities for the kids, and adults can choose from a wide range of options at each landing, from deep-sea snorkeling to lounging in the glass-bottom boat.” Travelers spend seven days aboard La Pinta and have the option of extending their journey to visit Machu Picchu in Peru. Travel Wizard’s Bob McMillen has been organizing trips for Marinites since 1998. He was first bit by the touring bug in his twenties, when he started Catch a Canoe, a rental and guide company in Mendocino. According to McMillen they work with more than a hundred companies in the “eco zone” but the nine-day “Amazon Health Care Workshop: Pharmacy From the Rain Forest” is a favorite. While the trip is primarily an educational outreach program for health care professionals (with continuing-education credits available),
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anyone interested is welcome. The adventure begins with a night in Lima, Peru; then it’s off to Iquitos, a frontier city on the banks of the Amazon, to explore the central market and visit medicinal herb vendors to find “rain forest remedies.” Next comes a short trip down the Amazon to the Explorama Lodge, with a visit to the clinic of American internist Linnea Smith, who treats many local indigenous Indians, and a journey seven miles downriver to Napo Lodge to learn more about rain forest medic-
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inal plants. “We have sent many families and groups on this life-enriching eco-vacation experience,” McMillen says. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime vacation that opens guests’ eyes and leaves them fulfilled and with lasting memories.”
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HELPING HANDS
Last November the Coombers and the Levys of Mill Valley chose a rather unusual joint family vacation. Instead of Disneyland, they traveled to Guatemala to help Habitat for Humanity build a home for a single mom and her two teenage boys. Mark and Lindsay Levy purchased the home to donate in honor of his parents’ 50th wedding anniversary. A former employee at the Gap, Levy got the idea for the gift and the trip after participating in a similar project sponsored by the Gap. Besides having children the same age and being good friends, the Coombers—Chris, Molly, and children Will and Katie—were ideal travel mates for the Levys because they had family ties to Guatemala: Chris’s mother, Lucrecia, who lives in Tiburon, is from Guatemala and joined them on the trip. “It was the best thing I could have done for my kids as a parent,” Molly says. “We basically worked from nine to three, for three days, and our job was to put in the cement floors. The adults did the heavy lifting and the kids sifted through gravel, mixed cement and helped us to the best of their ability carrying buckets.” Habitat para la Humanidad Guatemala is the largest Habitat home builder outside the United States and has built over 25,000 houses, providing shelter for 150,000 Guatemalans. A typical home costs about $3,000 to build; families purchase their home from Habitat using an eight- to-12-year loan with payments of about $30 a month. For more information, go to habitatguate.org.
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PLAY
TALLY-HO IN NICASIO Day of hounds, horses and high spirits by p. j. bremier photos tim porter
UNDER DAMP SKIES ON A GRAY WEST MARIN MORNING, the Reverend Cyril
O’Sullivan is a beatific presence in his white cassock, standing tall amid the oaks and boulders behind Nicasio’s St. Mary’s Church. In his rolling Irish brogue, he extols the virtues of “joy, loyalty and companionship” he deems inherent in the restless congregation gathered before him. The heavenly ideals invoked by Father O’Sullivan fall on inattentive ears, however. His unruly flock is far more interested in earthly matters, pacing to and fro and sniffing the ground. Only when sprinkles of holy water startle them into attention do they have a chance to hear the blessing meant to “keep them safe and free from harm.” Then, benediction complete, the huntsman’s horn blares forth with an emphatic blast, and the two dozen tricolored foxhounds are off, leading an equally eager group of 30 smartly attired equestrians out of the pasture. A passel of motorists and bicyclists provide an enthusiastic audience for the colorful scene. The riders, all members and guests of the Los Altos Hounds, are participating in one of the club’s annual Marin hunts, one of 20 similar Northern California events it hosts between November and April. (The club also sponsors timed cross-country rides, a Peninsula barn tour and a season-ending ball. Membership, says Woodacre resident Linda Albion, is open to anyone “who just wants to have good, adrenaline-filled fun.”) Although the hunt has begun with a flourish, it came together in more measured fashion. An hour before the traditional blessing of the hounds, the pack was still ensconced in the horse trailer that had trucked its members north from their Hollister kennel. Only their prized soft noses, poking through slats of the trailer, were visible. Pedigreed from American and European stock, some with bloodlines dating back to the 1700s, the hounds number about 75. The ranch on Nicasio Valley Road that serves as the hunt’s staging area and breakfast venue had filled slowly. One by one, as curious cows watched, horse trailers arrived and unloaded their cargo—athletic, beautifully built mounts. The animals, some with their manes knotted
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That’s just fine with Albion, who’s hunted with the club for 20 years and who cochaired today’s breakfast. “I’ve hunted in England, Ireland and Virginia and have done a lot of soulsearching because I’m such an animal [rights] activist,” she says. “Basically, most of us just like the friendship and the excitement of galloping across the countryside, not the hunting.” The riders fall into two groups, says Joint Master of Foxhounds Jef Graham of Portola Valley. “One who hunts to ride and one who rides to hunt.” The latter consists of those who appreciate how the hounds work a scent. “‘Riding to hounds’ is mostly about the chance to spend a day in the country and ride in beautiful places,” says Graham. “We don’t really get anybody who wants to hunt things.” By dealing with ditches and roads, long grasses and various obstacles, he points out, riders learn to be better horsemen. With or without prey, the hounds enjoy the run and so do the horses. Typically, “90 percent of riders [and their horses] never leave the barn,” says Graham, “and what horses love the most is running in open spaces with other horses. They adore it.” TOP : A rider and horse cross pastures. BELOW LEFT : Father Cyril O’ Sullivan blesses hounds just outside St. Mary’s
This is a sport steeped in tradi-
Church. BELOW TOP RIGHT : “Stirrup cups” of port and hearty scones are offered to riders before the hunt. Carrots, proffered in a silver bucket, are for the horses. BELOW BOTTOM RIGHT : exhausted but happy hounds.
tion. A defined club hierarchy, responsible for maintaining the club and the kennel, is honored. So are
into intricate braids, stood patiently tethered to their trailers, munching
the specialized rules, dress code and language, based on unfailing cour-
on hay while being groomed.
tesy as well as practical considerations, dating back to hunting’s earliest
The riders, ranging in age from four-year-old Clare Bever astride
days in Europe.
her gray pony to 80-year-old master emeritus Albert Schreck on his
During the hunt, for example, hounds have the right of way; begin-
Percheron-Thoroughbred cross, exchanged cheery greetings in the brisk
ning hunters stay to the rear; conversation is kept to a minimum; and
chill, nibbled on scones and sipped beverages from “stirrup cups.”
“there’s a God-spoken rule that you never pass the field master,” Albion
Father O’Sullivan’s request for divine guardianship didn’t extend to
says with a chuckle. “Lightning will strike if you do.”
the resident foxes and coyotes of West Marin, but they are protected by
The riders are grouped in two “fields,” one whose members want
Marin sensibilities (and the Marin Humane Society). Here, unlike other
to jump and one whose don’t (the latter are called hilltoppers). A crew
places where the club rides, fox hunting is prohibited. What the hounds
opens and closes the gates; a huntsman is in constant communication
“hunt” is a sponge soaked in coyote urine that two advance riders drag
with the hounds; “whippers-in” keep errant hounds from following other
in front of the pack.
scents or prey; and the field masters look after the riders.
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Staff and veteran club members get to
Original Vintage Jewelry from the 18th, 19th & 20th Centuries
wear the eye-catching scarlet coat that is easily spotted by the field. The scarf at the neck, secured by a gold stock pin, makes an emergency splint for horse, hound or human. The tan tops of men’s field boots recall earlier cuffed ones that would be pulled up for protection against the underbrush and folded over for after-hunt functions. And the long whip can snare a loose horse or open a gate. The hounds—never referred to as dogs— are counted in couples. They don’t wag their tails; they “flag their sterns.” They don’t bark, but rather “speak” or “cry,” and when they’re “in full cry,” their sound is “music.” “Tally-ho” means game is sighted; “ware hole” warns another rider of a potentially dangerous pothole, and “come-a-cropper,” or falling headfirst from a mount, is something no rider wants to experience. “Injuries are few,” says Graham, “and most happen not when going over a jump, but when mounting incorrectly after closing a gate or picking up a glove.”
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The hounds pay close attention to the huntsman’s horn. Different blows signal different cues—one telling them to gather, another to search for scent and still another to stop hunting. That one, a long, mournful and haunting note called “coming home,” is ceremoniously blown at the funeral of a club member, often with his boots placed backwards in the stirrups of his horse. “It brings tears to everybody’s eyes,” Albion says. After an exhilarating if moist two-hour ride, the group sits down to a breakfast served at colorful tables arranged pondside. Albion, along with Catherine Barnes of Nicasio and Holly Sichel of Santa Rosa, has set up a buffet of salads. Holly’s husband, Rodney, who is serving as the liaison for the ranches, also serves up 100 pounds of barbecued tri tip and sausage and bottles of his family’s vintage-vine zinfandel wine. Dessert is carrot cake. It is a fine finish to a day of riding to hounds. “We never have to ask how much
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fun someone’s had,” Albion says. “We can al-
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their teeth!”
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B OO K S
Confessions of a Serial Dater In her candid new memoir, Wendy Merrill recalls a life of missteps, bad choices and other relationship mayhem by samantha berry
W
endy Merrill is successful, blond and tall. “Six feet one and three eighths inches to be exact (I know exactly how tall I am because measuring me seems to be part of the early rituals of all my relationships),” she writes in Falling Into Manholes: The Memoir of a Bad/Good Girl. One might assume
that the view from such a vantage point is sunny all the time, but in this frank and sometimes funny story, Merrill disabuses us once and for all of the notion that blondes have more fun. Although it’s true they may have more boyfriends. Merrill, who runs a biotechnology marketing group from her home in Sausalito, grew up in a sugarless Berkeley household that kept her pining for sweets as a child. Falling Into Manholes
depicts her early incessant craving for sugar as a precursor of things to come. Her life is speckled with trips through bulimia and anorexia, drug and alcohol abuse, and a harrowing and ill-advised search for love and acceptance from a string of Mr. Wrongs. There’s a married coworker, a former therapist, a guy she calls her “gambling-addict ex-stockbroker-turned-mattress-salesman boyfriend,” a love and sex addict from L.A., and a younger man who tells her, “I want to marry someone exactly like you, only younger.” Of her string of bad choices she writes, “I...have dated
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plenty of medicated men before. So many, in fact, that if you were a man who was wildly attracted to me, you were probably suffering from depression, whether you knew it or not.” Now sober (for 18 years) and single (for going on two), Merrill writes from a place of relative peace without claiming to be perfectly sane. For her, the book was an exercise in selfexploration. “It was really about finding the truth for myself and finding some meaning for myself. It’s just another woman’s coming-ofmiddle-age story,” she says. It does take a lot of guts to expose oneself that way. Asked if she’s nervous about such a public baring, she laughs. “It’s not like I’m going to post the book on my business website! But honestly, as I was writing it I didn’t have a sense that anyone would actually read it.
Art Vases by Diana Crain. Hang them on the wall or place them on a table with flowers.
I guess I was using my powers of denial for good rather than evil.” Wendy Merrill will be reading from her memoir at Book Passage on Saturday, March 29. See bookpassage.com for more details.
Art, Gifts & Accessories Mon. - Sat. 10:30 am - 6:00 pm
47 C Tamal Vista Blvd., Corte Madera (415) 945-8863 • Across from Book Passage
An excerpt: By the end of the week, Cliff appeared to have lost interest in me completely and was openly flirting with other women in my presence. “I sure hope you’re making a parachute
tela d
{tay-laa-dee}
out of all those red flags you’ve been collecting,” Hedy said, minutes before I went to sit on Cliff’s lap at a beach party of friends in a lastditch attempt to get his attention. He leapt up as though I were a scalding cup of coffee and literally dumped me in the sand. Feeling like a bird that had just fallen off its perch and trying to look casual about it, I picked myself up and walked back to the house to go hide in yet another bathroom. I haven’t seen this much bathroom action since I was a bulimic. What was I doing? Closing the bathroom door, I brushed the sand off my skirt, took a deep breath, and tried to settle down and really listen to what my body was saying. I wasn’t even sure I like this guy, so why was I feeling so hurt? I remembered when I was 14 and had got-
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ten really drunk for the first time by downing
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eight Budweiser beers in an hour. I was with some friends at a motorcycle race, and an older
SFMBY NBSJO TUZMF
boy, Johnny, asked me to push his dirt bike so he could get it started. Thrilled to have been asked, I gripped his seat from behind and started pushing. What Johnny had neglected to tell me was when to let go. So as the bike kicked into gear, I held on, and, wanting to be sure to do it just right, I was dragged for about 10 feet before it even occurred to me to let go. What I wanted was Johnny’s approval. What I got was facedown drunk in the dirt.
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Salads by Mollie Katzen (Ten Speed, $15) The Moosewood Cookbook author has a new book. Salads is a collection of more than 50 recipes for, well, salad. This goes way beyond tossed lettuce and ventures bravely into the world of beans, cheese, oils, herbs and many other ways to make salad a meal. Curse of the Spellmans by Lisa Lutz (Simon & Schuster, $25) The next Spellman family book from the hilarious author of the best-selling novel The Spellman Files about a family of private eyes. Wacky, wise, irreverent and sidesplitting. I Want Candy by Kim Wong Keltner (Avon, $14) The third novel from Chinese chicklit queen Kim Wong Keltner, author of The Dim Sum of All Things and Buddha Baby. Fourteen-year-old Candace Ong is wasting away in Eggroll Wonderland, the restaurant where her under-Americanized family toils in San Francisco. She loves rock candy and rock music—and hangs with her best friend, Ruby, whose wild life she covets. Candace wants more than another stifling summer in the kitchen. So when a new opportunity arises, she leaps at the chance.
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With Cliff, I’d told myself I wanted a fling. What I got was flung. But who had really done the flinging? I looked into the bathroom mirror for that sweet little seventh-grade girl who wanted so much to get on the dance floor with the prom king and who wasn’t at all prepared to end up in the mosh pit. “Who knew that the prom king was going to turn out to be such an a**hole?” I said out loud to myself, trying to make little Wendy feel better.
BOOKSELLERS RECOMMEND Their favorite cookbooks: The Tassajara Cookbook: Picnics, Lunches and Appetizers by Karla Oliveira and Patrick Tregenza (Gibbs Smith, $30) “I’ve had this cookbook less than two months and my copy is already dog-eared, counter-worn, and full of protruding scraps of paper. These are delicious, interesting, really userfriendly recipes. There are many vegan options, and the ‘vegan cookies and sweets chapter’ is the best dairyless desserts chapter I’ve ever come across. This book is the perfect way to upgrade the vegetarian/vegan lunchbox and cookie jar.” —E. H. Mann, Green Apple Books & Music
Joy of Cooking: 75th Anniversary Edition by Irma Rombauer (Scribner, $35) “I don’t do a lot of cooking but when I do, I go for the real basics. The Joy of Cooking has a new edition as of last year and they continue to update it. It’s real simple and it tells you how to do everything, like bone a chicken. It really has everything you need to know. For fancier stuff I still like San Francisco à la Carte (Junior League of San Francisco, $23), which was real popular in the ’90s and is still great.” —Lenny Jay, The Book Depot
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A RT
Reflections on Identity Artists employ variety of media to aid quests for deeper meaning BY ANNE CRUMP RAY
A
pair of black-and-white photography exhibitions graces the walls at Smith Andersen North in San Rafael this month. Through March 6 the gallery presents Being There:
Photographs by William Heick from the 1940s to the 1960s, which highlights pictures by the San Francisco–based filmmaker and documentary photographer. Known especially for his ethnographic work on Native Americans, Heick artfully captures his subjects in their own environments, providing intriguing glimpses of their lifestyles in striking compositions. Works on view include images from the last century of Filipinos in North Beach and migrant field-workers. Beginning March 15 the presentation shifts to a selection of large-format portraits by Berkeley-based Judy Dater. Titled Portraits Portrayed: Photographs by Judy Dater from the 1960s to Now, the exhibition includes an array of pictures from the prolific artist’s career. Dater quickly distinguished herself with powerful and unconventional depictions of women, particularly nudes. Often photographed in her studio against stark, black backdrops, these women projected a sense of independence and self-assuredness, aided by Dater’s fresh and innovative compositions, which portrayed feminine beauty in unexpected ways. Dater also has used self-portraiture as a tool for exploring female stereotypes as well as the artist’s connection to her surroundings. Dater’s formal style reveals affinities for August Sander, Edward Weston and her close friend Imogen Cunningham. Her work is in the collections of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York’s Museum of Modern Art and the International Center for Photography, among others. Smith Andersen North hosts an opening reception from 6 to 8 p.m. on ABOVE: Linda c 1965 by Judy
Dater at Smith Andersen North. THIS IMAGE: Rachel, oil painting by Ann Gale at Hackett Freedman Gallery.
Saturday, March 15. Smith Andersen North, 2240A Fourth St., San Rafael, 415.455.9733, smithAndersennorth@earthlink. net; 10–6 Tue–Fri, 11–5 Sat and by appointment, closed Sun–Mon
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The unique “raw-metal paintings” of
models, and her conceptual approach, which
paper, which serve as touchstones while she
Marin’s Andreas Nottebohm get star bill-
is rooted in painterly formalism. While the
works on larger canvases.
ing throughout March at Gallery Bergelli in
artist initially is drawn to her subjects’ unique
Gale, who teaches at the University
Larkspur.
physical characteristics, she ultimately allows
of Washington School of Art, received a
A native of Germany who has lived in the
the process in her studio to determine what
Guggenheim Fellowship in 2007 and had
United States since 1981, Nottebohm contin-
appears on her canvases: conversations that
the recent distinction of being the subject of
ues a long-standing art historical tradition
unfold during the sittings, changes in her sit-
a recent solo exhibition at the Portland Art
that marries fine art and science in a seam-
ters’ posture and demeanor, the interplay of
Museum in Oregon.
less union. Like da Vinci before him, he draws
skin tones and the color of her backdrops all
on interests in geometry and the origins and
become factors.
operation of the universe to craft incredibly
“I’m not trying to reproduce [a particular
detailed artworks that are visually stunning
person]. I’m trying to understand something
as well as technically sophisticated.
through the observation,” the artist says.
Known for fantastical paintings on met-
In addition to Gale’s paintings, the exhi-
al surfaces that suggest visions of the cos-
bition includes a rare look at her works on
Hackett-Freedman hosts an opening reception for its presentation of Gale’s work from 5:30 to 7:30 on Thursday, March 6. Hackett-Freedman Gallery, 250 Sutter St., San Francisco, 415.362.7152, hackettfreedman.com; 10:30–5:30 Tue–Fri, 11–5 Sat, closed Sun–Mon.
mos, Nottebohm has created commemorative commissions for NASA, and his work is included in the collection of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. Several years ago, inspired by his love of etching and printmaking techniques, he abandoned the use of paint in order to focus solely on his metallic substrate. As in his earlier paintings, Nottebohm continues to explore the interactions of surface and light, but his metalworks invoke characteristics of sculpture, inviting light and shadow to animate his carefully designed topographies. “Nottebohm’s technique of grinding aluminum with a power sander results in holographic spatial effects that tease the eye and challenge the mind,” observes Crocker Art Museum curator Scott Shields. Gallery Bergelli, 483 Magnolia Ave., Larkspur, 415.945.9454, gallerybergelli.com; 10– 5 Mon–Fri, 10–4 Sat–Sun, or by appointment From March 6 through April 26 San
ABOVE: Andreas Nottebohm, KN1689, oil on aluminum, Gallery Bergelli. LEFT: Katy c 1969, by Judy Dater, at Smith Andersen North.
Francisco’s Hackett-Freedman Gallery gives viewers a chance to feast their eyes on the mesmerizing figurative works of Seattlebased Ann Gale. Gale’s portraits owe an admitted debt of gratitude to the works of Lucien Freud and Alberto Giacometti, showcasing beautifully rendered figures obscured by gestural brushstrokes and a fractured picture plane. Gale’s style is the result of both her process, which involves extended sittings with live MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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New Paintings
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Carlos CarlosCatasse Catasse Arbol ArboldedelalaFelicidad Felicidad 5555x x3939inches inches Acrylic AcrylicononCanvas Canvas
Carlos Catasse
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
ROBERT ALLEN FINE ART
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Sky Sequence: A Cameo Appearance, 2006 Multiple color intaglio with photo polymer gravure 36" x 31"
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Late in the Day • Oil on Wood panel • 6” x 6”
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CAL E N DA R
MARCH ARTS & EVENTS GUIDE THEATER Thru 9 Blood Knot The story of two brothers trapped in the madness of apartheid South Africa. One is light-skinned enough to pass for white, the other is unmistakably black. Living together in a tumbledown shack, they wrestle with the terms of their fates and dreams. American Conservatory Theater (SF). 415.749.2228, act-sf.org Thru 9 Curvy Widow Cybill Shepherd stars in Bobby Goldman’s new comedy that follows the exploits of a widow whose modern adventures in Internet dating reveal unexpected truths about life, love and sex. Post Street Theatre (SF). 415.771.6900 1 & 2 Walkin’ Talkin’ Bill Hawkins In Search of My Father This one-man show recalls W. Allen Taylor’s adventurous search for his absent father, Bill Hawkins, the first black disc jockey in Cleveland, Ohio. AfroSolo African American Art and Culture Complex (SF). 800.838.3006, walkintalkin.com 8 & 9 The Mad Adventures of Mr. Toad Join the impulsive Mr. Toad, the practical Water Rat and the emotional Mole and stodgy Badger for a story that teaches lessons of true friendship, kindness, patience and loyalty. Presented by Masque Unit Jr. Theatre. Civic Center Showcase Theater (San Rafael). 415.893.0375 14—April 20 Shadowlands This play follows C. S. Lewis from when he first met his wife to a full, loving relationship complicated by cancer. Ross Valley Players Barn Theatre (Marin Art and Garden Center). 415.456.9555, rossvalleyplayers.com 27—April 20 A Streetcar Named Desire
American Conservatory Theater’s Blood Knot, thru March 9
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Tennessee Williams’ masterpiece about a torrid romantic triangle set in 1940s New Orleans. Passions erupt and lives hang in the balance when genteel Southern culture collides with frustrated, roiling urban desire. Marin Theatre Company (Mill Valley). 415.388.5208, marintheatre.org MARINMAGAZINE.COM
COMEDY Tuesdays Mark Pitta and Friends The comic hosts an evening for up-and-comers and established headliners to work on new material. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.9600, 142throckmortontheatre.com
The Season of the Silver Screen
MUSIC 1 San Francisco Symphony Michael Tilson Thomas conducts Shostakovich’s Ninth. Two other works span the musical spectrum: The Sibelius penetrates to the spirit’s core, while the Shostakovich is perfectly timed comedy. Davies Symphony Hall (SF). 415.864.6000, sfsymphony.org 5—7 San Francisco Symphony Michael Tilson Thomas conducts Beethoven’s “Eroica.” Schuman’s concerto calls for fiery virtuosity and finds a champion in Gil Shaham. Davies Symphony Hall (SF). 415.864.6000, sfsymphony.org
9 Vienna Boys Choir The famed choir continues to delight music lovers across the globe with their purity of tone, musical depth and distinctive charm. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org 14—22 La Bohème San Francisco Lyric Opera presents one of Giacomo Puccini’s most famous works, which centers around a community of artists in Paris. Barnaby Palmer is artistic director and conductor for the opera. Cowell Theater (SF). 800.919.8088, sflyricopera.org
15 Varsity Vocals The west semifinals of the International Competition of Collegiate A Cappella presents the top eight college groups as they compete for the title. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
21 Old St. Hilary’s Concert Series The New West Guitar Quartet established themselves as a well-known jazz group when they were all students at the University of Southern California. Old St. Hilary’s (Tiburon). 415.435.1853, landmarks-society.org MARINMAGAZINE.COM
MellifluousCello
Sunday, March 30 and Tuesday, April 1, 2008, 7:30pm Alasdair Neale, conductor • Hai-Ye Ni, cello Jalbert Fire and Ice Haydn Cello Concerto No. 1 Dvor̆ák Symphony No. 7 Ms. Ni, currently the Principal Cello of the Philadelphia Orchestra, returns to Marin where she was the 1986 recipient of a scholarship from Marin Music Chest, currently celebrating its Jubilee (75th) anniversary. Sponsored by Bank of Marin and Marin Music Chest
Carmina!
Sunday, April 27 and Tuesday, April 29, 2008, 7:30pm Alasdair Neale, conductor Marin Symphony Chorus with Schola Cantorum and the Marin Symphony Youth Chorus McPhee Tabuh-Tabuhan Orff Carmina Burana Sponsored by LVP Marin Realtors, US Bank and Flegels Fine Furniture & Interior Design
Pre-concert on April 27, hear Emmy award-winning composer Gary Malkin discuss the use of Carmina Burana in film and commercials. Register for this free wine and hors d’oeuvres reception (for concert ticket holders only) at marinsymphony.org/Carmina_Burana_in_Film_and_Commercials.htm MARIN CENTER, SAN RAFAEL Concert tickets $27/$50/$65 (students half price) at 415.499.6800.
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Maury Lapp’s The Apollo Theater at George Krevsky Gallery, thru March 15
30 & April 1 Marin Symphony Hai-Ye Ni performs Haydn’s Cello Concerto No. 1 in a program including Jalbert’s “Fire and Ice” and Dvorák’s Symphony No. 7, Alasdair Neale conducting. Marin Symphony (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marinsyphony.org
DANCE 1 Belly Dance Superstars They’ve been hailed as the next big dance show phenomenon to follow Riverdance. The Belly Dance Superstars are set to bring their acclaimed performance to Marin Center for a third visit. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
6—19 San Francisco Ballet A Tribute to Jerome Robbins Works include Fancy Free by composer Leonard Bernstein, In the Night by composer Frédéric Chopin and West Side Story Suite by composer Leonard Bernstein. All works by choreographer Jerome Robbins. War Memorial Opera House (SF). 415.553.4658, sfballet.org 14 4-ISH This show fuses the adrenaline of extreme sports with dance performed by a group of international thrill seekers 124
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from Amsterdam. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
18 Dancing Across Cultures A variety of national folk dances will be performed while dancers wear exquisite costumes. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
GALLERIES MARIN Aperture f64 Gallery Ongoing work. 635 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo. 415.482.0480 Art Abloom Gabriella Spina Drake’s studio offers classes in painting, sewing, clay and more along with a gallery. 735 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo. 415.256.1112, artabloom.com Artisan Art Gallery All Mixed Up Don’t miss this regional juried show, thru March. 853 Fourth St, (San Rafael). 415.460.5208, artisansartgallery.org
Art League of Northern California It’s Photography III Digital and mixed media work on display and juried by Will Mosgrove, the director of graduate photography at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, thru March 2. 781 Hamilton Pkwy (Novato). 415.246.2541, artleagueofnortherncalifornia.org Art Works Downtown Ongoing work. 1337 Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.451.8119, artworksdowntown.org Claudia Chapline Gallery West Marin Landscapes Work by Eric Zachary Whitten, March 2 thru March 30. 3445 Shoreline Hwy, Stinson Beach. 415.868.2308, cchapline.com Edith Caldwell Gallery The gallery focuses on contemporary realism, paintings, sculptures and more. 819 Bridgeway, Sausalito. 415.331.5003, edithcaldwell.com Gallery Bergelli Work by Andreas Nottebohm, who has had solo exhibitions in Houston, Beverly Hills, Miami, Germany and New York, thru March. Work by Carlos Catasse. 483 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur. 415.945.9454, gallerybergelli.com MARINMAGAZINE.COM
Gallery Route One Work by Tim Graveson and Zea Morvitz in the Annex, thru March 23. 11101 Hwy One, Point Reyes Station. 415.663.1347, galleryrouteone.org Marin Society of Artists Red Is A juried show by member artists, thru March 2. 30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Ross. 415.454.9561, marinsocietyofartists.org O’Hanlon Center for the Arts Seeing Beyond Seeing Work by Karen Cox and Megan Gentile, March 4 thru March 27. 616 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.388.4331, ohanloncenter.org Robert Allen Fine Art Now open in a new Caledonia Street location after 25 years in San Francisco. Now showing work by Kazuko Watanabe. 301 Caledonia St, Sausalito. 415.331.2800, robertallenfineart.com Robert Beck Gallery Ongoing work. 222 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo. 415.456.7898 Robert Green Fine Arts Sight Lines in Watercolor Work by Paul Jenkins, thru March. 154 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.381.8776, rgfinearts.com Sam the Butcher Impasto Work by Elizabeth Gorek, thru March. 19 Ross Common, Ross. 415.902.1019, samthebutcherart.org Studio 333 Ongoing work. 333A Caledonia St, Sausalito. 415.331.8272, studio333.info The Art Bar Work by Kathleen Dunne, thru March. 46 Main St, Tiburon. 415.435.3999, theartbar.us The Painters Place Work by gallery artists and antique prints, framed prints and mirrors, thru March. 1139 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur. 415.461.0351, thepaintersplace.com
SAN FRANCISCO ArtHaus The Painters Are Here A group exhibition that expores color, craftsmanship and fine art, thru March. 411 Brannan St, 415.977.0223, arthaus-sf.com MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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Berggruen Gallery The gallery specializes in the exhibition and sale of 20th-century American and European paintings, drawings, sculpture and limited-edition prints. 228 Grant Ave, 415.781.4629, berggruen.com Caldwell Snyder Gallery Group exhibition, thru March. 341 Sutter St, 415.296.7896, caldwellsnyder.com Elins Eagles Smith Gallery Ongoing work. 49 Geary St, 415.981.1080, eesgallery.com Gallery Paule Anglim Work by Enrique Chagoya and Hung-Chih Peng, thru March. 14 Geary St, 415.433.2710, gallerypauleanglim.com Gallery 291 The Kingdom Come A series of platinum and palladium prints by Marin artist Beth Moon, March 6 thru April 25. 291 Geary St, 415.291.9001, gallery291.net George Krevsky Gallery Maury Lapp: Poetic Imagery Work by this Bay Area figurative painter, thru March 15. 77 Geary St, 415.397.9748, georgekrevskygallery.com
Rena Bransten Gallery Ongoing work. 77 Geary St, 415.982.3292, renabranstengallery.com
Gregory Lind Gallery Work by Seth Coen, thru March 1. 49 Geary St, 415.296.9661, gregorylindgallery.com Hackett-Freedman Gallery Drawing Space in Colour A solo exhibition of paintings by British modernist Patrick Heron, March 1. 250 Sutter St, 415.362.7152, hackettfreedman.com Hang Art and Hang Art Annex Work by Tim Yankosky, thru March. 556 & 567 Sutter St, 415.434.4264, hangart.com Linda Saytes Ongoing work. Hunters Point Shipyard Bldg 101 Studio 2120, 415.824.5756, saytesart.com Meyerovich Gallery Ongoing work. 251 Post St, 415.421.7171, meyerovich.com Newmark Gallery Contemporary American and European Art Works on paper by Toru Sugita, Marianne Mitchell, Larry Morace, Ilan Laks, Pierre Merkl and Anna Mir. Abstract works by West Coast and Western European artists, March 1. 251 Post St, Ste 412, 415.392.3692, newmarkgallery.com
MUSEUMS MARIN Bolinas Museum Ongoing work (Bolinas). 415.868.0330, bolinasmuseum.org Falkirk Cultural Center The Art of Glass Work by artists Enrique Goldenberg, Duncan House, Michael Sosin and Penelope Comfort Starr reveal the beauty of glass, thru March 15 (San Rafael). 415.485.3328, falkirkculturalcenter.org Marin History Museum Riding the Rails Discover the fascinating story of trains in Marin as this exhibition celebrates the railroad boom from the first tracks laid by the North Pacific Coast Railroad to the bustling days of the Northwester Pacific passenger and freight service, thru April 12 (San Rafael). 415.454.8538, marinhistory.org
Reserve your spot now for one of the hottest tickets in Marin
Runway 2008 Saturday, April 5
6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Marin Country Club 500 Country Club Drive, Novato
Party Benefits: Marin Advocates for Children, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), and Child Abuse Prevention Council (CAPC)
www.marinadvocates.org 415.507.0179
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Marin Museum of the American Indian Masks of the Americas A combined exhibit of contemporary and traditional Native American and Southwest masks by the museum and California artist Becky Olvera Schultz, thru April 20 (Novato). 415.897.4064, marinindian.com
tradition set by preserve founder Rene di Rosa, for discovering and supporting new talent, the MFA exhibition showcases the work of eight artists who recently completed their MFA degrees at Bay Area schools, thru March 15. Bay Area Ceramic Sculpture: Collection in Context Modern and contemporary art on display, March 29 thru May 17 (Napa). 707.226.5991, dirosapreserve.org
SFMOMA Gabriele Basilico Nearly 50 black-and-white and color photographs taken by Basilico by invitation of SFMOMA during a long residency in the Bay Area last summer, thru June 15 (SF). 415.357.4000, sfmoma.org
Exploratorium The Search for Universals in Human Emotion This exhibition focuses on a photographic study of human facial expressions that has had a powerful impact on the understanding of both our emotions and our evolutionary history, thru April 27. Top Secret: Mission Toy Kids can don white coats and learn how toys are made and where they come from, thru May 4. Exploratorium (SF). 415.561.0377, exploratorium.edu
Mondays Boomercize Classes This low-impact fitness program features dance steps and music from the American Bandstand hit parade. Marci Judelson leads this one-hour workout. Presidio Dance Theater, Studio B (SF). 415.608.4503, boomercize.con
EVENTS
BAY AREA Asian Art Museum Drama and Desire: Japanese Paintings from the Floating World 1690–1850, thru May 4. Beautiful geisha, flamboyant actors, seductive courtesans. Meet the denizens of the “Floating World”. (SF). 415.581.3500, asianart.org de Young Lynn Hershman Leeson: No Body Special San Francisco-based Leeson’s works have won her much acclaim. In this exhibit she creates an image of a red coat from the de Young Museum’s permanent collection, thru June 1 (SF). 415.863.3330, thinker.org di Rosa Preserve MFA Selections: A Salute to Bay Area Emerging Artists Continuing the
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Legion of Honor Annie Leibovitz: A Photographer’s Life, 1990-2005 Over 200 photographs including those of her family and friends, celebrities, photojournalism and landscapes from Jordan, thru May 25 (SF). 415.863.3330, legionofhonor.org
Thru March 23 Stegner Conference A celebration of the life, works and legacies of Wallace Stegner and a showing of four new publications including a volume of his letters, a biography, an art book of West Marin landscapes and the first issue of a West Marin literary review. Gallery Route One (Point Reyes Station). 415.868.2187
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Thru May 6 One Book One Marin For a second year Marin libraries and their community partners team up to get the county to read the same book. This year, they have picked Amy Tan’s Saving Fish From Drowning. Various locations (Marin). onebookonemarin.org
1 & 2 Orchid Exposition Don’t miss the 56th Annual Pacific Orchid Exposition, known as one of the top three flower shows in the country. The show features over 150,000 different types of orchid species and breeds. Fort Mason Center (SF). 650.548.6700, orchidsanfrancisco.org 1 & 2 White Elephant Sale Thousands of savvy shoppers flock to this sale hoping to find rare first editions, cashmere sweaters, heirloom jewelry and more. Proceeds benefit the Oakland Museum of California. 333 Lancaster St (Oakland). 510.839.5919, whiteelephantsale.org
with an intimate reception for sponsors with Dr. Deepak Chopra, followed by dinner and an award ceremony. Westin St. Francis Hotel (SF). 415.600.1562, myhealthandhealing.org
feature this year’s theme, Live Beautifully, Live Outdoors, and new to this year is a free women’s health pavilion. Cow Palace (Daly City). 800.569.2832
4 Are You Ready, My Sister? As part of their performing arts series, Youth in Arts and Underground Railway Theater present a play that tells the exciting story of the great Underground Railroad conductor Harriet Tubman and the Quaker women who helped her bring 300 fugitives to freedom. Marin Center Showcase Theater (San Rafael). 415.457.4878, youthinarts.org
13—21 Tiburon International Film Festival
11—15 Bouquets to Art This fundraiser celebrates the art of flower arranging in a dramatic museum setting. More than 40,000 people are expected to attend the exhibits, which range from miniature gardens to architectural constructions. De Young Museum (SF). 415.750.3504, bouquetstoart.org 12—16 San Francisco Flower and Garden
2 Institute for Health and Healing This annual event honors pioneers in the field of integrative medicine. The evening begins
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Show Meet industry experts and learn helpful tips at one of the world’s largest spring garden festivals. Twenty-five display gardens
The seventh annual festival showcases over 250 films and is dedicated to heightening cultural awareness through the artistic and powerful medium of film. 415.381.4123, tiburonfilmfestival.com
14 Pi Day The 20th anniversary of the celebration of Pi Day—which started at San Francisco’s Exploratorium—includes a Pi shrine and ritual food like apple pie and pizza pie. Exploratorium (SF). 415.561.0377, exploratorium.edu
15 Merola Opera Program Spring Gala Une Soiree Francaise is presented by Blanche Germain Streeter and Jane Roos Le Roux and includes a lavish cocktail reception presented in an art nouveau setting with luxury auction items up for bid and a three-course dinner crafted by award-winning chefs. Four Seasons (SF). merola.org
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15 Snack Attack What’s Cooking class shows kids how to make delicious and healthy snacks. Pickleweed Recreation Center (San Rafael). 415.342.4353, whatscooking.info
20—April 7 Tasting Nearly 20 styles of both scotch and bourbon will be put to the test in a bracket-style tasting competition. Noonan’s Bar and Grill (Larkspur). 415.464.8711, noonansbarandgrill.com
15 St. Patrick’s Day Parade The streets of San Francisco will turn green for one of the oldest and largest St. Patrick’s Day parades west of the Mississippi. Downtown San Francisco (SF). 415.675.9885, sfstpatricksdayparade.com
21 Marin Moonshiners Join the monthly three-mile hike and experience the sunset, moonrise and socializing. Bring a flashlight. Pelican Inn (Muir Beach). 415.331.0100, whatshappeningcalendars.com 29 An Evening with Anne Lamott and
19 Bright Futures With Strong Foundations Celebrate the Boys and Girls Club’s rich history in San Francisco and the bright futures of its youth. It will also commemorate the 100th anniversary of the club in the Mission District. Columbia Park Clubhouse (SF). bgcsf.org
Elizabeth Gilbert Marin County author Anne Lamott and journalist, novelist and short-story writer Elizabeth Gilbert (Eat, Pray, Love) talk about their writing. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
20 Curley Art Collection Select pieces
NATURE WALKS/TALKS
from the Curley Family Trust will be exhibited and on sale. All proceeds benefit the Marin Arts Council Fund for Artists grants program. California Closets Gallery (San Rafael). 415.448.0369, marinarts.org
Ongoing Sonoma History Local actor George Webber morphs into Samuel Clemens, aka Mark Twain, as he retells the history of Sonoma through Twain’s
eyes; specific dates on website (Sonoma). 707.694.5097, georgewebber.com
RETAIL THERAPY Coming Soon Tiller Digs New Location After almost two years in Town Center Corte Madera, the home boutique is moving to an expanded location. The store will almost double its square footage, which will allow it to sell outdoor furnishings and more. Town Center Corte Madera (Corte Madera). 415.924.2961, shoptowncenter.com
Mondays NH2 Salon Stylists at the new Novato salon will be featured on KRON’s “Body Beautiful” series to speak about new trends in hair. 415.897.8777, nh2salon.com
Now Open Harvest Home Store The sixth location of this modern country furniture boutique is now open. The store specializes in old-lumber green furniture, earth-friendly linens and affordable custom-made cabinetry. Town Center Corte Madera (Corte Madera). 415.924.2961, shoptowncenter.com
newskinclinic.com
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On-screen at TIFF March 13-21
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get close-up beautiful at NewSkin Clinic. complimentary MD consultation: 415.945.9555. sanctuary spa, Bay Club Marin, Corte Madera Town Center.
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WINE COUNTRY Thru 29 Napa Valley Mustard Festival The festival features food, wine, art and entertainment throughout the valley. Events include the Mumm photography contest, “A Taste of Yountville” sampling day and a Calistoga Jazz Festival. Various locations (Napa). 707.944.1133, mustardfestival.org 1 George Carlin This concert includes the premiere of the award-winning comedian’s 14th HBO special, which is being filmed live. Arrive early, as late seating is not permitted. Wells Fargo Center (Santa Rosa). 707.546.3600, wellsfargocenterarts.com
• Permanent Makeup • Waxing/Hair Removal • Lash Extensions • Hair & Nail Services • Massage/Body Wraps/Vichy Shower • Facials/Skin Treatments with SkinCeuticals
415.453.8899 • 1015 B Street, San Rafael • Monday - Saturday 9am - 6pm
SANDRA BIRD DESIGNS
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2 Napa Valley Marathon Tie up your laces and head to this 30th annual race. The course runs the length of the Napa Valley wine-growing region, beginning in Calistoga and winding along the Silverado Trail, finishing at Vintage High School. Throughout Napa. 707.226.7459
3 Winter 2008 Winemaker Dinner Series at Cyrus Chef Douglas Keane will craft a tasting menu to complement the wines of Peay Vineyards. During the meal, Andy Peay and winemaker Vanessa Wong will visit with guests. Cyrus (Healdsburg). 707.433.3311, cyrusrestaurant.com 7 & 28 Napa Valley Wine Train Murder Mystery Dinner While you enjoy a complete five-course gourmet dinner aboard the restored 1915 Pullman dining and lounge cars, try and figure out who dunnit as actors (dressed in 1915-era costumes) re-enact a murder mystery. McKinstry St (Napa). 800.427.4124, winetrain.com 8 12th Annual Starry Night Wine Auction Vichy Elementary School’s annual auction brings oenophiles out for a fundraising night, filled with great wine, food, music and traditional hula. Silverado Resort (Napa). 707.253.3544
14—16 Pigs and Pinot Celebration Chef
240 Magnolia Avenue, Larkspur CA • 415.927.1171 www.sandrabirddesigns.com 130
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Charlie Palmer is bringing together chefs and winemakers to celebrate the pairing of specially created pork dishes and pinot noir. The three-day event includes wine tasting, a cooking class and a gala dinner, which includes a five-course meal, rare pinot noirs MARINMAGAZINE.COM
and dancing. Hotel Healdsburg and Dry Creek Kitchen (Healdsburg). 800.889.7188, hotelhealdsburg.com
15—16 Savor Sonoma Valley Taste Sonoma
MARIN BEAUTIFUL
wines, nibble on food pairings from local restaurants and chefs and enjoy works by area artists. Various wineries (Sonoma). 866.794.9463, heartofsonomavalley.com
Dr. David W. Kim and the Division of Facial Plastic Surgery at UCSF are pleased to announce the opening of our Marin office beginning January, 2008. We hope to bring the quality for which UCSF is known to your backyard in Marin. Please call for a consultation or visit online at www.dkimmd.com.
TRAVEL BUZZ Anderson Valley Brewing Company Sample some of Boonville’s best in a five-course dinner with beer hosted by Anderson Valley brewmaster Neil Atkins, March 7. $65 at Anderson Valley Brewing Company (Boonville). 707.785.2371
nouncing Our New Office 1300 South Eliseo Drive, Suite 204 Greenbrae, CA 94904 (415) 885-7700 Mention this ad to receive special pricing on in-office procedures. (Valid Until May 1, 2008)
Harvest Inn Marin, Napa and Sonoma residents can show their valid California driver’s license and receive a reduced rate in one of the inn’s 74 guest rooms along with a hearty country breakfast in the morning, thru March. $205—$245 at Harvest Inn (Napa). 707.963.9463, harvestinn.com Hotel Healdsburg During the Pigs and Pinot Celebration try the VIP Ultimate Package with accommodations for two in a suite, entrance to the taste-around dinner, choice of a seminar and lunch or cooking class with Charlie Palmer, entrance to the gala dinner and an insider’s wine tasting tour with transportation in a limo, March 14 thru 16. $2,750 at Hotel Healdsburg (Healdsburg). 800.889.7188, hotelhealdsburg.com Montage Laguna Beach The luxury hotel recently announced its 2008 packages, which include the Surrender Retreat: a program featuring personalized sessions with a personal trainer and more; the Epicurean Adventure: private wine tastings, a yacht tour, private jet trip and farewell dinner; the Art of Romance package: a rose petal bath, couples’ massage and more; the Beach Bed and Breakfast package: ocean-view accommodations and more; and the Girlfriends’ Getaway package: a two-bedroom suite, a day at Spa Montage and more. Montage Laguna Beach (Laguna Beach). 888.715.6700, montagelagunabeach.com. MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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Laser Hair Removal
Wrinkle and Fold Fillers
Skin Care David W. Kim, MD
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À LA CARTE VEEV A...LA COCKTAIL!
lar green audits, the sales team’s equipped
views of the exhibition kitchen. Executive
with hybrids, VeeV uses sustainable pack-
chef Shotaro Kamio offers up Robata
THIS BEING OUR GREEN ISSUE
aging with soy ink and their distiller re-
(charcoal-grilled), Kama-Yaki (wood burn-
– we salute ex-investment bank-
ceives at least 25 percent of its electricity
ing oven roasted), Agemono (deep-fried),
er brothers Courtney and Carter
from wind generated power. The compa-
Otsukuri (sashimi and carpaccio) and
Reum’s new spirited venture, VeeV.
ny will soon be selling the spirit in Marin
Shabu Shabu (one pot cooking, tableside).
A clear but ‘green’ cocktail that
but for now it can be sampled across the
Kompai!—M.T./S.F.
fuses Brazil’s national fruit Açai
bridge at Americano, Mas Sake, Harlot,
(known for its antioxidants) with
Ambassador and Cantina.
flavors like prickly pear and ac-
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erola cherry. Although one could
YOSHI’S ON FILLMORE
argue with its celebrity clientele
TO THE DELIGHT OF JAZZ FANS and
hailing it as a healthier way to drink,
Japanese food aficionados, Yoshi’s SF re-
there’s no disputing the eco-friendly steps
cently opened at 1330 Fillmore. Over the
the company has taken.
years, Yoshi’s Oakland has hosted jazz
For each bottle sold, VeeV donates $1
greats such as Dizzy Gillespie, Diana Krall,
to ensure the sustainability of Açai farming
Harry Connick, Jr. and Branford Marsalis.
through its charitable partners Rainforest
The 28,000-square foot, two-story SF lo-
Action Network and the Sustainable Açai
cation includes a restaurant with private
Project. The company also conducts regu-
dining rooms and an upstairs lounge with
MARIN
MARCH 2008
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
FL AVOR
THE BURGER NEXT DOOR
Grilled, fried, with cheese, bacon’d, with a bevy of sauces or plain—nothing beats a good ol’ American hamburger (with fries). Start with an
SYLVIA PARK YI
GARY KING
Pearl’s Phat Burgers, Mill Valley
Farm House & Deli, Olema
“Start with natural, organic
“West Marin’s diversity of fresh
ground chuck, with a lean-to-
products provides great range in
fat ratio of 80/20 (which makes
spice and accompaniment selec-
the juiciest burgers) and divide it
tions for natural beef. Winter
into one-third pounds and firmly
rains bring wild mushrooms, in
pat them into tight discs. Press
spring and summer fruits come
each disc into a patty between
alive, vegetables abound year-
wax paper, foil, or plastic wrap,
round and local cheeses like Point
whatever you have on hand. Take
Reyes Bleu and Mount Tam Brie
your thumb and make a depres-
are plentiful. The potential for
sion in the middle of each patty
creativity is endless. A current
to prevent them from bubbling up
favorite is Cajun blackening spice
while cooking and help them cook
and a future choice will be roast-
evenly. Sprinkle sea salt and fresh
ed pear and brandy demi sauce.”
ground pepper on both sides of
all-natural patty from a local purveyor and try these tips from local burger experts to get the
the patty just before cooking. Flip the burger once so you don’t lose too much of its juices and don’t smash it down while cooking.
juciest and tastiest one around. —SOMER FLAHERTY
Have those napkins ready because a great burger is measured by how many napkins you need!”
MARK ESCABAR
“I like mine with lettuce and tomato, Heinz 57 and French fried potatoes. Big kosher pickle and a
M & G Burgers, Fairfax/Larkspur “To create the perfect burger, the most important thing to me is everything has to be fresh. Try an organic Prather Ranch half-pound burger, charbroiled, with a little garlic salt; add Cowgirl Creamery blue cheese and lightly grilled onions, a spear of romaine lettuce and extra tomatoes. Pair that with
cold draft beer...for my cheeseburger in paradise.”
trans-fat-free French fries and a Fat Tire amber ale and you’re living.”
—Jimmy Buffett
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HANE Y
INSIDER’S GUIDE
O R T H O D O N T I C S
DINE OUT
We would like to invite you to become a patient in our family orthodontics practice.
CORTE MADERA
We welcome new patients of all ages, and look forward to caring for you and your family.
BENISSIMO Italian Benissimo means “really really good” in Italian. From margherita pizza to veal parmagiana to mocha mud pie, Benissimo serves a taste of Italy in a casual neighborhood venue. 18 Tamalpais Dr, 415.927.2316 benissimos.com
Specializing in both braces and Invisalign®
CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN Cal/Eclectic Be prepared for chaos. Easy place to meet with kids; Mom/Dad can enjoy a tasty Thai crunch salad and decent glass of wine while the little ones feast on basic kid-size portions of pasta and pizza. 347 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.945.0401
1600 Sir Francis Drake Blvd. San Anselmo, CA 94960 www.haneyorthodontics.com
(415) 453-7880 p (415) 453-0602 f info@haneyorthodontics.com
CLEAN, GREEN SOLAR ENERGY ✓ Reduce or eliminate your PG&E bills. ❑ ✓ State rebates and tax credits available. ❑ ✓ 100% Ànancing solutions available. ❑ ✓ Marin’s solar energy experts serving the North Bay since 1984. ❑
MARIN JOE’S Italian Pasta and other Italian dishes have been served up here for over 50 years. Pick from soup, salad, seafood mesquitegrilled or sautéed meats and over 10 pasta options guaranteed to satisfy. Have a drink and hear local musicians at the well-known piano bar. 1585 Casa Buena Dr, 415.924.2081, marinjoesrestaurant.com
Marin County Green Business since
2003
CA Lic: 497797
WWW.SOLARCRAFT.COM (415) 382-7717 285-D BEL MARIN KEYS BLVD, NOVATO
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RESIDENTIAL
•
SOLAR THERMAL
IZZY’S STEAKS & CHOP HOUSE American The legendary San Francisco steak house has moved north. Known for great steaks and seafood as well as its fine wine selection, this is a great spot for a group or intimate dinner for two. 55 Tamal Vista, 415.924.3366, izzyssteaksandchops.com LA MAISON DE LA REINE Vietnamese A refreshing change amid the plethora of Italian, Mexican and Chinese options. The crunchy cabbage chicken salad with peanuts, fresh spring rolls, and combinations of pho are delicious. 346 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.927.0288
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IL FORNAIO Italian Sausalito’s Larry Mindel hit a home run with this upscale Italian 23-restaurant franchise. Besides the award-winning breads, pizzas and pastas, the menu boasts a variety of salads and noncarb entrées. 223 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.927.4400, ilfornaio.com
MAX’S CAFE American Located across from Town Center, Max’s is renowned for casual ambience and large portions. The menu changes with the season but features year-round favorites like matzo ball soup and BLTs. Besides decadent portions or comfort food and desserts, the menu also offers seasonable local produce and healthy items too. 60 Madera Blvd, 415.924.6297, maxsworld.com PACIFIC CATCH Pan-Asian This well-priced fresh grill eatery offers a bounty of Pacific Rim—inspired small or main plates, like the generously portioned wasabi bowls filled with rice (white or brown), veggies and your choice of fresh or raw fish, chicken or beef. 223 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.927.3474, pacificcatch.com MARINMAGAZINE.COM
P.F. CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO Chinese As of 2008, Marin diners don’t have to travel in order to enjoy the famed orange chicken, salt-and-pepper calamari or Mongolian beef. The restaurant serves lunch, dinner and takeout. 301 Corte Madera Town Center (Corte Madera). 415.413.9890. pfchangs.com
FAIRFAX CAFE AMSTERDAM American-European The former Broadway Video store is now a cozy spot to enjoy live music, a weekend brunch, dining on the heated patio and a large selection of local beers on tap. 23 Broadway, 415.256.8020, cafeamsterdamlive.com DEER PARK VILLA Italian This “best place for a party” (Pacific Sun) sits on four garden acres; the Ghiringhelli family has been turning out Italian favorites here since 1937. Come for the famous veal parmesan—or your next big celebration. 367 Bolinas Rd, 415.456.8084, deerparkvilla.com IRON SPRINGS PUB & BREWERY American Grab a beer and a grilled portobello mushroom sandwich—which one Chronicle reviewer calls “the best mushroom dish I have ever tasted”—at the former Ross Valley Brewing Company. 765-A Center Blvd, 415.485.1005, ironspringspub.com SORELLA CAFÉ Italian Not only is the food satisfying and tasty; the service is friendly and the ambience is warm and inviting. 107 Bolinas Rd, 415.258.4520
www.paradisebaysausalito.com -- phone - -- fax - Bridgeway, Sausalito
C
S
MANICURE t PEDICURE t FACIAL t MASSAGE t WAXING
GREENBRAE CAFE Z American A pleasant surprise in the Bon Air shopping mall. Dishes like grilled chicken pesto pianni and savory crepes have quickly made this intimate spot a local favorite, and inventive meals keep people coming back for more. 282 Bon Air Center, 415.461-9444, cafez.com WIPEOUT CAFE American Former Pan American Airlines pilot (and Belvedere resident) Warren Simmons — also the founder of the popular Chevy’s chain — has brought his San Francisco Pier 39 Wipeout Bar and Grill to the Bon Air Center. The location features a full bar, outdoor patio and family-friendly items like sandwiches, salads and pizzas in a T-shirt-and-sandals atmosphere. 302 Bon Air Center (Greenbrae). 415.461.7400, wipeoutbarandgrill.com
KENTFIELD HALF DAY CAFE American A tucked-away setting of intertwining ivy and great white windows makes the perfect breakfast nook. The setting is casual but elegant; the menu includes lattes, exceptional pastries and much more. Dine on the outdoor patio or inside where the view is just as divine. 848 College Ave, 415.459.0291 WILLIE’S CAFE American Stop here for down-toearth atmosphere and reasonable prices. This cozy MARINMAGAZINE.COM
hampagne A N D
D A Y
alon
S P A
Marin’s Premier Full Service Luxury Day Spa
The SkinMaster™ Skin Rejuvenation System The SkinMaster™ facial can be customized to treat the most common problems affecting clients of all ages, including acne, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, premature aging, blemishes and sun damage. All SkinMaster* facials begin with a complete skin analysis, exfoliation, oxygenated steam, cleansing, toning, moisturizing dehydrated skin, circulation and firming, clearing blemishes, extractions, deep hydration and lymphatic facial massage.
1 Blackfield Dr., Tiburon (Cove Shopping Center) (415) 380-9111 Mon. 10 am - 5 pm (Hair and Nails only) Tues. – Sat., 9 am – 6 pm (Tuesday and Thursday evenings by appointment)
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CALL THE SHOT!
spot offers breakfast, lunch and dinner; favorites include corn pancakes and veggie frittata. 799 College Ave, 415.455.9455
LARKSPUR CAFE Z American A pleasant surprise in the Bon Air shopping mall. Dishes like grilled chicken pesto pianni and savory crepes have quickly made this intimate spot a local favorite, and inventive meals keep people coming back for more (Greenbrae). 282 Bon Air Center, 415.461-9444, cafez.com E & 0 TRADING COMPANY Southeast Asian Chef Edwin Cabriloa-Torres is keeping the restaurant’s innovative plates like Indonesian corn fritters and Thai seafood clay pot as tasty as ever. Without reservations, try a spot at the large communal table. 2231 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.925.0303, eotrading.com EMPORIO RULLI Italian Pastry chef Gary Rulli is renowned for his Northern Italian specialties and treats. The Larkspur location (there are three others) is a popular spot for lunch as well as coffee and a sweet. 464 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.7478, rulli.com LARK CREEK INN American This flagship eatery for the Lark Creek Restaurant Group opened back in 1989 and was hailed by the New York Times as having “the best home cooking you can imagine.” It remains a perennial special occasion spot and is still known for inventive country cooking—as well as a cozy bar scene. 234 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.7766, larkcreek.com
How Call the Shot has a simple premise: o d l l e Tell us where this picture is and win a $100 gift w w o certificate for E & O Trading in Larkspur Landing. n you k in? To win, your answer must be specific. We know this is a Mar
church. You have to do better than that. Give us an exact location and the name of the church. Here’s a clue: there’s a baseball diamond across the street.
Here’s how to play: Go to marinmagazine.com, agree to the rules and submit your answer. Simple. We’ll choose the winner randomly from all the correct answers. Good luck! And the winner is: John Perone of Mill Valley won January’s Call the Shot by correctly identifying the stairway descending from Highway 1 to the Muir Beach overlook.
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LEFT BANK RESTAURANT French Known for award-winning French cuisine and its lively brasserie ambience, this corner spot has rated high with local for well over a decade. Those with a petite appetite/budget can opt for happy hour (4–6 M–F) and enjoy appetizers, all priced under three dollars. 507 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.3331, leftbank.com MARIN BREWING CO American Grab a cold beer made right on site and pair it with fish and chips—fresh cod dipped in Mt. Tam pale ale batter, served with steak fries and homemade tartar sauce. 1809 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.461.4677, marinbrewing.com PICCO California Chef and celebrated restaurateur Bruce Hill deserves the accolades he has received for this eclectic shared-plate heaven. Dishes like mini-burgers and seasonally driven menu items, along with risotto made every half hour, keep people coming back. The Picco Pizzeria and Wine Bar next door is cozy (not many seats) but already famous for its wood-fired pizzas, great wine selection and soft-serve Straus Family Creamery ice cream. 320 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.0300, restaurantpicco.com RUSTIC BAKERY California Organic mouthwatering pastries, breads, and sandwiches are on the menu here. The Meyer lemon mascarpone danish and the bacon, avocado and heirloom tomato sandwich with mesclun MARINMAGAZINE.COM
are perennial temptations. 1139 Magnolia Ave, 415.925.1556, rusticbakery.com TABLE CAFÉ Indian/American Indian-inspired cafe offers a unique menu featuring entirely organic ingredients. Dishes include seasonal salads, incredible soups and fresh juices. The specialty of the house is dosia, filled with a variety of ingredients and served with savory homemade chutneys. You can also take home a choice of three or four gourmet dinners freshly packed daily. 1167 Magnolia Ave 415.461.6787
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THE MELTING POT French Just across the street from the Larkspur Ferry terminal is a round red-brick haven for fondue fans. Share the “Big Night Out” feast featuring chef’s specialties, or design your own spread with cheese fondue, salad, choice of meat entrée and chocolate fondue dessert. 125 E. Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.461.6358, themeltingpot.com
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YANKEE PIER American This family-friendly casual clam shack is harbored in a quaint house built in 1924 as a private residence. Though known for beer-battered fish’n’ chips, clam chowder and tasty salads, Yankee Pier serves fresh seafood delivered daily from both coasts with special dishes by renowned chef Anthony Bowman. 286 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.7676, yankeepier.com
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BUCKEYE ROADHOUSE American Oysters Bingo, baby back ribs and chili-lime “brick” chicken are a few of the satisfying, comfort-food-type menu items that have made this classic roadhouse a favorite since the ’30s. The warm dark-wooded bar with red leather booths is a popular spot for cocktails, conversations or a light meal. 15 Shoreline Hwy, 415.331.2600, buckeyeroadhouse.com BUNGALOW 44 American Much like sister restaurant Buckeye Roadhouse, Bungalow 44 offers a mean dose of homey carbo- and lipidladen dishes, such as the burger, fried chicken and truffle fries, as well as a few lighter items. The bar is a neighborhood favorite, serving up tasty spirits and eye candy. 44 E. Blithedale Ave, 415.381.2500, bungalow44.com CACTUS CAFE AND TAQUERIA Mexican Recently under new management; the food is better than ever. They still offer the lunchtime bargain burrito, as well as fish tacos and Caesar salads with grilled chicken or shrimp. Be sure to opt for the diablo sauce on enchiladas and burritos. 393 Miller Ave, 415.388-8226 CAFE DEL SOUL California Beware of addiction. Once you stop in for the deliciously fresh Hummus Yummus wrap, you’ll have to come back to sample the chipotle Sunrise Rice Bowl; then it will be the Thai It Up wrap with peanut sauce washed down with ginger limeade that brings you back, and so on. Casual lunch spot, great for takeout. 247 Shoreline Hwy, 415.388.1852, cafedelsoul.net DIPSEA CAFE Comfort One word: biscuits. This longtime breakfast spot has been serving up MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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tasty pancakes and egg dishes with homemade biscuits since 1986. Try a biscuit with a poached egg, a biscuit with sausage –or just plain butter. Lunch specialties include BLTs and tuna melts and generous Cobb salads. Now serving dinner. 200 Shoreline Hway. 415.381.0298, dipseacafe.com EL PASEO French Keiko Takahashi, a prominent Tokyo chef known for her modern French cuisine, transports her flair to Mill Valley. With a cottagelike feeling, this fine dining restaurant serves meals that are nothing less than exquisite. Reservations recommended. 17 Throckmorton Ave, 415.388.0741, elpaseorestaurant.com FRANTOIO RISTORANTE ITALIANO Italian Known for its in-house olive press, superior olive oil and excellent Italian cuisine, this is a great location for large groups. Ask to sit in the press room for private parties. 152 Shoreline Hwy, 415.289.5777, frantoio.com INDIA PALACE Indian Known as “that great restaurant in the Travelodge,” India Palace is a favorite among the takeout crowd; however, eating on site is a treat too. 707 Redwood Hwy, 415.388.3350
THEP LELA Thai This jewel is tucked away in the back of the new Strawberry Village. Diners come for the tasty kee mao noodles, pad thai, fresh rolls and extensive bar menu. It’s also a great place for lunch. 615 Strawberry Village, 415.383.3444 VASCO Italian Whether you’re at a table, the bar or the back counter, you can expect an intimate and tasty dining experience at this one-room trattoria. Don’t miss trying one of the restaurant’s pasta dishes or thin crust pizzas. 106 Throckmorton Ave, 415.381.3343
NOVATO BOCA STEAK & SEAFOOD South American Serving up an Argentinean-inspired menu in Novato with much ado, House specialties include provolenta, gambas al ajillo, and empanadas, as well as hand-cut (grass- and grain-fed) steaks. 340 Ignacio Blvd, 415.883.0901, bocasteak.com CACTI GRILL Southwestern A former bell tower church, the family-friendly restaurant now boasts a covered patio and serves a 21-day dry-aged steak and filet mignon enchiladas. 1200 Grant Ave, 415.898.2234, cactigrill.com
LA GINESTRA Italian A favorite family spot for over 30 years; getting a table or booth can take a while. While this old-school Italian eatery is known for traditional pastas, veal dishes, pizzas and dry martinis, the familiar wait staff is also part of the attraction. 127 Throckmorton Ave, 415.388.0224
CHRISTOPHER’S Italian/American A hidden place worth the effort to find in Bel Marin Keys. Christopher, the owner, offers a casual menu of innovative “Italian”-type fare. 8 Commercial Blvd, 415.382.8488
ORA Pan-Asian An inventive small and large plate menu mixed with an impressive wine list and original bar menu, including sake flights. It’s an easy place to pop in for a drink and bite to eat, but call ahead for large groups. 24 Sunnyside Ave, 415.381.7500. oramv.com
KITCHEN American Restaurateur Henry Hautau has succeeded in creating an intimate 45-seat restaurant in downtown Novato. The menu offers items like orange-and-spice-scented house-brined pork chop and star-anise-braised short ribs. 868 Grant Ave, 415.892.6100, kitchen868.com
PIAZZA D’ANGELO Italian It’s always a party at this long-standing hot spot. A great place to meet up with friends for a fresh plate of pasta, zuppa di pesce or pollo novello, or make some new friends at the bar. 22 Miller Ave, 415.388.2000, piazzadangelo.com
WILDFOX American Perched on the hillside off Highway 101, this rustic mesquite grill offers a menu full of comfort food and drinks, like the smooth cosmos, and seafood risotto, with bits of butternut squash. In the mood for a cigar? The restaurant has an extensive list. 225 Alameda del Prado, 415.883.9125, wildfoxrestaurant.com
PIATTI RISTORANTE AND BAR Italian Reopened, after an extensive remodel, with chef Chris Fernandez onboard leading the kitchen with a menu coinciding with seasonal food from local producers. The crudo and pizza is not to be missed. 625 Redwood Hwy, 415.380.2525, piatti.com RAIN TREE CAFÉ American/Homestyle In the newly remodeled Strawberry Village shopping center wonderful American fare: soups, salads, burgers, sandwiches and gourmet crepes. Savor the Mill Valley Crepe: smoked salmon, capers, spinach, and Dijon in a fresh warm wrap. Breakfast is served all day. 610 Strawberry Village, 415.380.8886, caferaintree.com SMALL SHED FLATBREADS California As a slow food chef, Ged Robertson uses only local, mostly organic ingredients. Crowd favorites include the Mt. Tamal-Pie, a delicious fresh salad atop a flatbread. 17 Madrona St, 415.383.4200, smallshed.com 138
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ROSS CAFE MARMALADE French This quaint oneroom coffeehouse is centrally situated near Ross Common. Get there early for the full selection of pastries to enjoy with fresh-squeezed orange juice. 22 Ross Common, 415.461.2205 MARCHÉ AUX FLEURS French This gem of a restaurant serves up locally farmed produce, wild and fresh seafood and free-range meats prepared with an artisan’s touch. The wine and beer list are extensive. 23 Ross Common, 415.925.9200, marcheauxfleursrestaurant.com TRATTORIA FRESCO Italian Every neighborhood deserves a one-room trattoria like this one. The service is friendly and the farmers’-market-fresh food is fabulous—especially the gnocchi. 13 Ross Common, 415.464.0915
SAN ANSELMO AVA California Chef Dan Baker, of Marché aux Fleurs in Ross, has another winner with AVA, which features a California-only wine list and a menu where nearly all the ingredients come from within 100 miles—if not the Marin County Farmers’ Market. The small menu includes seasonal flatbreads, pasta and six seasonal main dishes. 636 San Anselmo Ave, 415.453.3407 CUCINA RESTAURANT AND WINE BAR Italian Proprietor Jack Krietzman (of Pacific Heights’ Jackson Fillmore) has brought Milan to Marin with his 42-seat family restaurant. Relax with a glass of wine and have a slice from the to-die-for thin pizzas, topped with items like truffle oil and fontina cheese. 510 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.2942 DEBBIE DOES DESSERT Bakery Besides sweets, the menu offers tapas on weekends and savory dishes such as grilled duck aux pêches with lavender honey sauce on galette de mais. 556 San Anselmo Ave, 415.721.2901, debbiedoesdessert.com FORK California This intimate spot was awarded “Top Food in the Bay Area” by Zagat for 2007. Opt for the five-course tasting menu or seasonal à la carte options. The three-course special for $20 is available during the first seating. 198 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.453.9898, marinfork.com INSALATA’S Mediterranean Award-winning chef Heidi Insalata Krahling offers Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes prepared with local organic produce and artisan meats. 120 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.457.7700, insalatas.com LOCOCO’S PIZZERIA Italian Worth driving to from all over Marin, and it’s an easy place to meet with friends and family. The pizza crust is divine as is the house salad. Easy spot to come with the entire family.Closed Mondays. 638 San Anselmo Ave, 415.453.1238, lococossananselmo.com TACO JANE’S Mexican Named after the owner’s mother, this casual but colorful place welcomes the whole family. Don’t miss out on Jane’s handmade agave margarita or griddled plantains with Jane’s crema. 21 Tamalpais Ave, 415.454.6562, tacojanes.com
SAN RAFAEL BOMBAY GARDEN Indian The restaurant offers a large menu of richly flavored Northern and Southern Indian Cuisine. There are often Bollywood movies or videos playing on a flat-screen TV to add a little entertainment to the meal. 909 Fourth St, 415.459.9555 dinebombaygarden.com CAFE GRATITUDE Raw The waiters might push the affirmations theme a bit too much, but the tasty (and healthy) food is worth it. Besides the knowledge you’re supporting local farmers and sustainable agriculture, the raw food and vegan samosas are hard to resist. Best to bring a group and sample lots of items on the menu. 2200 Fourth St, 415.824.4652, withthecurrent.com MARINMAGAZINE.COM
CREPEVINE American Bistro/Creperie Offering casual dining, outdoor seating and a diverse menu of savory crepes (such as the Italian crepe filled with roasted peppers, eggplant, onions, artichoke hearts, tomato sauce and mozzarella). Sweet and savory crepes are available all day long, as is breakfast. 908 Fourth St, 415.257.8822
Thank you Marin for making us successful since 1989! Visit Our Showroom Choose from a wide selection of styles & designs
MULBERRY 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
Custom Configurations, Fabrication and Installation Available
SABOR OF SPAIN Spanish Named Best Tapas/ Small Dishes restaurant in Marin by the Pacific Sun in 2006, this Spanish-wine bar is a great place for a date or a big party. 1301 Fourth St, 415.457.8466, saborofspain.com SAN RAFAEL JOE’S Italian Guido and Theresa Farina are now running this Marin institution, which has been famous for serving up sophisticated yet casual Italian fare since 1947. 931 Fourth St, 415.456.2425, srjoes.com
1217 North McDowell Blvd. Petaluma 415.453.0236 • 707.773.2898 800.924.2614 fax empireshowerdoors.com License #683909
SEAFOOD PEDDLER Seafood A great place to seek out fresh seafood in a warm and inviting environment. Varieties of East and West Coast fish flown in daily. Dine indoors or out, or better yet, rent out the banquet room for a party. 100 Yacht Club Dr, 415.460.6669, seafoodpeddler.com SOL FOOD Puerto Rican With south-of-theborder treats like yellow rice, beans, plantains and authentic Puerto Rican dishes, this tiny one-room eatery on Fourth Street just off Highway 101 can be hard to get into, but worth the wait. 732 Fourth St, and 901 Lincoln Ave, 415.451.4765 SUSHI TO DAI FOR Japanese Snagging a seat in this popular sushi spot can be a challenge, but patience will be rewarded with tasty and fresh sashimi, unique sushi rolls and great prices. 869 Fourth St, 415.721.0392
SAUSALITO ANGELINO RESTAURANT Italian Father-andson chefs Pasquale and Alfredo Ancona offer handmade pastas and seasonal antipasti at this authentic Italian restaurant, which has been serving food from the Campania region for the past 24 years. 621 Bridgeway, 415.331.5225, angelinorestaurant.com ARAWAN THAI RESTAURANT Thai Known for its consistently tasty Thai food and efficient, gracious service. For light fare try the imperial or Siamese rolls (vegetarian), or dig into the delicious pad thai noodles or garlic and pepper prawns. Arawan Thai has been a local favorite for over nine years. 47 Caledonia St, 415.332.0882 arawan.com CAFFÉ DIVINO Tuscan Locals come for the tasty pastas and salads, as well as coffee MARINMAGAZINE.COM
Wyland Ocean Massage Package One-category room upgrade Two Ocean Spa treatments Welcome Spa amenity Minimum three nights required and based on double occupancy. Not applicable for groups of 10 or more rooms. Valid through December 21, 2008.
Our guests call The Wyland Waikiki one-of-a-kind.
We call it an original. A cool, water-inspired oasis in the heart of Waikiki. The Wyland Waikiki reflects the design inspiration, and marine life art of renowned artist, Wyland. Immerse yourself in a world of art, nature and serenity.
Reservations 1 877-995-2638 • WylandWaikiki.com 400 Royal Hawaiian Avenue, Honolulu Hawaii 96815 MARIN MARCH 2008
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drinks in a funky one-room setting. Free delivery in Sausalito. 37 Caledonia St, 415.331.9355, caffedivinosausalito.com
a new menu, keeping some traditional favorites and has moved the restaurant to a new location. The large menu is impressive but the bar’s selection of over 100 tequilas is hard to beat. 2009 Bridgeway, 415.332.1512, saylorsrestaurantandbar.com
FENG NIAN Chinese Busy at lunch and dinner, this spacious hangout has been a popular spot for wonton soup, potstickers and daily specials for nearly two decades For an indulgent treat order the Szechwan crispy calamari or honey glazed walnut prawn. Free delivery. 2650 Bridgeway, 415.331.4500, fredscoffeeshop.com
SCOMA’S Seafood Whether it’s for the view of San Francisco or the historical background, visitors flock to this location for a romantic setting. The array of fresh seafood and meat dishes are appetizing as the Italian pasta dishes. 588 Bridgeway, 415.332.9551, scomassausalito.com
FRED’S Coffee Shop A local hot spot for over 40 years. Don’t miss the famous deep-fried French toast or the traditional Swedish breakfast. Not a breakfast person? The bacon bleu cheeseburger on a sourdough roll with fries is delicious too. Open daily 7 to 3. Breakfast served until 2. 1917 Bridgeway, 415.332.4575, fredscoffeeshop.com
SUSHI RAN Japanese Fresh, innovative small plates are just big enough to share, the traditional sushi is melt-in-your-mouth good and the wine, cocktail and sake lists keep the pickiest barfly well satisfied. Even the prices don’t deter the herd of sushi enthusiasts, who line up nightly to partake; reservations required in main room. 107 Caledonia St, 415.332.3620, sushiran.com
GAYLORD INDIA Indian Rated a “Restaurant of Excellence” by Zagat, Gaylord’s new location in Sausalito also features million-dollar views of San Francisco and the bay. All the dishes including samosas, curries and tandoori are made with fresh local produce, seafood and artisan meats. 201 Bridgeway, 415.339.0172, gaylord.com
WELLINGTON’S California British transport Jeremy John and his wife Jill have created an expansive (2,400 square foot) space wine bar with a homey feel, board games, views of the bay and a worldly cellar featuring affordable bottles and special reserves. The menu features wines by the glass for $5 to $20 and tasting flights of any three wines for $12. 300 Turney St (Sausalito). 415.331.9463, wellingtonswine.com
KITTI’S PLACE Pan-Asian Watch out Comforts (aka the best chicken salad in town), Kitty’s serves up a delicious crunchy fresh chicken salad, as well as light tasty spring rolls too. Popular with the lunch and take-out dinner crowd. 3001 Bridgeway, 415.331.0390
TIBURON
POGGIO Italian A great place to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a night out. Executive chef Peter McNee cooks up delicious Northern Italian cuisine using fresh and local ingredients, including produce from the nearby Poggio chef garden. 777 Bridgeway, 415.332.7771, poggiotratoria.com
GINZA Japanese The old Tiburon Tommie’s space on Main Street has been buffed and polished and reopened as a sleek, upscale sushi spot with the famous waterfront San Francisco views. This intimate setting offers menu items like sliced yellowtail, avocado, radish sprout, tobiko and spicy Ponzu sauce as well as a variety of tempura and terriyaki dishes. The double hamachi roll is not to be missed. 41 Main St, 415.789.5123, ginzasushi-tiburon.com
SAYLOR’S RESTAURANT AND BAR California/ Mexican Owner and chef Sean Saylor has created
GUAYMAS Mexican Situated right next to the Tiburon ferry terminal on the waterfront. The touch-it-you’re-so-close city views and outdoor seating makes it a great place to bring visitors on a warm summer night. Happy hour is 5 to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Menu includes specialties like puerco macho—pork loin chop with grilled plantain, topped with an ancho chile, garlic and onion sauce. 5 Main St, 415.435.6300, guaymasrestaurant.com ROONEY’S CAFÉ & GRILL American If you’re old enough to remember Cheers on prime time, this is your dinner spot. There’s not a long bar, nor a bartender named Sam (he’s across the street); however, there is an undeniable neighborhood feeling in this one-room cottage dining room. 38 Main St, 415.435.1911 SAM’S ANCHOR CAFE American Everyone knows Sam’s deck is the prime spot for brunch on a lazy sunny Sunday, and its bar is the town’s historic watering hole, but Sam’s is also a great place for lunch or dinner. Enjoy trans-fat-free calamari, fresh fish, seasonal salads and pastas. 27 Main St, 415.435.4527, samscafe.com SERVINO RISTORANTE Italian With people like Warren Buffett and Bill Gates raving about his pizza, Angelo Servino is doing something right. Some people come for the spacious and popular bar; some people come for the great food and friendly service; the titans of industry, it seems, opt for the pepperoni. Spacious bar, and weekend music is also a big draw. 9 Main St, 415.435.2676, servino.com THREE DEGREES California Opt for the outside patio, white tablecloths in the dining room, or the swank modern setting of the bar, and enjoy the local, seasonal menu options like grilled Niman Ranch New York “cowboy” strip steak or seasonal risotto. 1651 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.5996, threedegreesrestaurant.com
WEST MARIN
CRAVING ITALIAN? ASIAN? FRENCH? VEGETARIAN? AMERICAN? ✦ GO ONLINE— OVER 300 RESTAURANTS LISTED IN DINE MARIN • NAPA • SONOMA MARINMAGAZINE.COM 140
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DRAKES BEACH CAFE Local If you’re OK with the long drive, you can’t beat the view and the fresh local ingredients used to make the burgers, salads and soups at this casual spot (Inverness). Walk on the beach after lunch. 1 Drakes Beach Rd, 415.669.1297, drakesbeachcafe.com OLEMA INN California One of the most charming settings around, this inn and restaurant is a great destination lunch spot for a Sunday drive, or dinner Wednesday through Sunday. The menu includes imaginative combinations using regional and organic greens (Olema). 10000 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.663.9559, theolemainn.com PARKSIDE CAFE American Most people know it as the ultimate breakfast spot (think Guatemalan scramble or waffle with blood orange-strawberry compote and whipped cream, alfresco) but lunch and dinners are great here too. Choose from an array of organic locally grown produce and artisan meats and wild seafood (Stinson). 43 Arenal Ave, 415.868.1272, parksidecafe.com MARINMAGAZINE.COM
PINE CONE DINER American Just off the main road, Joannie Kwit has re-created the ultimate neighborhood diner. Vintage china and homemade curtains complement the eclectic but homey menu featuring local fare (Point Reyes Station). 60 Fourth St, 415.663.1536, pineconediner.com
Devencenzi, has created a menu featuring fresh ingredients and inventive takes on the classics. Don’t miss the muddled Cucumber-Basil Gimlet or the freshly squeezed 2400 Greyhound. 2400 Lombard, 415.440.2000, jones-sf.com
SAND DOLLAR American Originally built from three barges in Tiburon in 1921, the Sand Dollar Restaurant was floated to Stinson that same year and still exists today. Enjoy live music along with local barbecued oysters and New England clam chowder. Sunny deck for afternoon enjoyment (Stinson). 3458 Shoreline Hwy, 415.868.0434, stinsonbeachrestaurant.com
MAMACITA Mexican Located in the former Cafe Marimba space, chef Sam Josi has made Mamacita a dining destination, drawing in locals with authentic Mexican cuisine and 100 percent pure agave tequila margaritas. The menu features a large number of small plates but save room for the churro dessert, served with a cup of Mexican hot chocolate. 2317 Chestnut St, 415.376.1629, mamacitasf.com
SURFER’S GRILL American The view doesn’t get better than this—nor does the surf salad. Built right out on Stinson Beach, this casual lunch spot offers up tasty fresh organic salads alongside corn dogs, burgers and fries (Stinson). Stinson Beach Park, Hwy 1, 415.868.1777, surfersgrill.com
MYTH Cali/French Innovative cuisine has made this one of the most popular spots in town. Located in Jackson Square, the space was home to failed restaurant MC2 before Myth’s original owner Tom Duffy scored a hit. 470 Pacific Ave, 415.677.8986, mythsf.com
SAN FRANCISCO AME Pan-Asian On the ground floor of the St. Regis Hotel, Ame Restaurant was designated “Best New Restaurant in 2007” by the Zagat guide. Known for raw treatments such as sashimi, crudo, tartare and carpaccio. Dinner only, reservations recommended. 689 Mission St, 415.284.4040, amerestaurant.com BOBOQUIVARI’S THE STEAK Steak/Seafood In the mood for surf and turf? Head out to Bobo’s and be sure to order the iron skillet-roasted mussels, Dungeness crab, and of course, the steak dry-aged for four to six weeks. The proprietors (also of the Stinking Rose) claim it’s the only one of its kind on the West Coast. 1450 Lombard St, 415.441.8880, boboquivaris.com BONG SU Vietnamese Brainchild of Tammy Huynh, executive chef and co-owner of the popular Tamarine in Palo Alto. The interior is a mix of the modern and traditional; silk, wood and steel elements such as a giant bong su (plumeria), and floating orchids in towering glass vases. Recently voted one of Esquire magazine’s top 20 in 2006. 311 Third St, 415.536.5800, bongsu.com CANTEEN Cali/French It’s not easy to get a seat in this nationally noted California-French restaurant, partly because of its reputation and partly because there aren’t many. Ever since the former Rubicon chef Dennis Leary turned a run-down downtown coffee shop into one of the best spots in the city, people have been lining up to sample the goods. 817 Sutter St, 415.928.8870 HARRIS’ RESTAURANT Steak house A San Francisco institution for nearly a century. Wine Spectator ranked Harris’ as one of the nation’s top ten steak houses. 2100 Van Ness Ave, 415.673.1888, harrisrestaurant.com JONES RESTAURANT Comfort If you’re thinking of crossing the bridge, check out the brand new Jones Restaurant in the spot formerly occupied by the Marina Sports Bar. The bar manager, Tony MARINMAGAZINE.COM
PERBACCO Italian The seasonal Italian menu focuses on the northern Piemontese region, featuring handcrafted charcuterie, homemade pastas and regional dishes such as quail with persimmon and apple salad. 230 California St, 415.955.0663, perbaccosf.com PRES À VI International/Small plates Known for a wine list that’s sure to please any oenophile, including a large selection of flights and by-theglass choices to pair with chef Kelly Degala’s shared small plates menu. One Letterman Dr, Building D, Ste 150, 415.409.3000, presavi.com PRESIDIO SOCIAL CLUB California Originally the barracks for enlisted men; menu features steaks, pork chops and fresh oysters. Throwing a party? Try the private room, which can accommodate 30 people. 563 Ruger St, 415.885.1888, presidosocialclub.com QUINCE California Book a reservation at least a month in advance to get a seat at one of the 15 tables in this tiny restaurant. The farmers’ market creations by chef Michael Tusk, formerly of Chez Panisse and Oliveto, are sure to please. 1701 Octavia St, 415.775.8500, quincerestaurant.com SCOTT HOWARD American The former chef/ owner of Fork in San Anselmo, Scott Howard packed up his talent and moved it to the big city, in the former location of the Cypress Club on Jackson Street. 500 Jackson St, 415.956.7040, scotthowardsf.com UMAMI Japanese Named for the “fifth flavor,” Umami is a member of the Sustainable Restaurants family, owned by partners Nate Valentine, Chef Sam Josi, and General Manager Stryker Scales, who also own Mamacita in the Marina. 2909 Webster St, 415.346.3432, umamisf.com YOSHI’S Japanese The 28,000-square foot, two-story restaurant and jazz club features robata and Shabu Shabu cooking by executive chef Shotaro Kamio. 1330 Fillmore St, 415.655.5600, yoshis.com
If I were a cow. By Bryan Flannery
If I were a cow, I’d want to be a cow from California. This is because California cows, as we know, are really happy and make really great cheese. Cows from Nebraska, on the other hand, make really great tri-tip. As a cow, I’m thinking this would be different than making cheese. Truth is, I’m happy to not be a cow from anywhere. I’m happy just being me, Bryan the non-cow, and making available some of the most delicious cuts of corn-fed Nebraska-bred beef tri-tip found west of Omaha. Halve a loaf of ciabatta lengthwise, sauté some yellow onions, heap on a pile of thinly-sliced ribbons of my tri-tip and well — no cow, not even a California cheese-maker, could be more content than you. Come buy some.
Bryan’s Fine Foods Corte Madera Town Center
927.4488 www.bryansfinefoods.com MARIN MARCH 2008
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INSIDER’S GUIDE MARIN COUNTY
HOTELS CORTE MADERA CORTE MADERA INN Relax in the oversized heated swimming pool, or one of the two whirlpool spas, practice on the professional putting green or hit the basketball court at this 110-room property. Guests looking to shop can leave the hotel’s five-acres and head to both the Town Center and the Village at Corte Madera. Rates start at $139. 415.924.1502, cortemaderainn.com
FAIRFAX FAIRFAX INN Owner Jay Papel built this quaint bed-and-breakfast in 1998. Each of the 12 rooms has a Jacuzzi tub and fireplace and many feature views of Mount Tamalpais. Complimentary continental breakfast. Rates start at $120. 415.455.8702, fairfaxinn.com
INVERNESS MANKA’S INVERNESS LODGE Tucked in the hills of Inverness is a hunter’s paradise complete with flannel-covered couches and deer-head trophies. The post-fire accommodations still include 10 rooms above the wetlands of Tomales Bay. Rates start at $285. 415.669.1034, mankas.com
MARSHALL
MUIR BEACH
NICK’S COVE Pat Kuleto in partnership with Mark Franz brought back to life the long awaited funky quarters of Nick’s Cove. Most of the 12 seaside cottages feature an over-the-water or water-view deck, potbellied stove, fireplace, heated bathroom floors and copper bathtub. For dinner head to the 130-seat Nick’s Cove restaurant, with a glassedin deck, mahogany bar and a 400-foot pier that extends off the restaurant deck and into the bay. Rates start at $295. 415.663.1033, nickscove.com
THE PELICAN INN Stay in one of seven snug bedrooms and enjoy a pint and a game of darts at the attached English pub. Rates start at $208. 415.383.6000, pelicaninn.com
MILL VALLEY ACQUA HOTEL The hotel blends modern elegance with the surrounding natural environment. Design highlights include the nine-foot glass-and-wood doors and the serene lobby waterfall. All 25 junior suites feature large entry parlors, soaking tubs and private balconies with views of Mill Valley. The third-floor junior suites feature fireplaces. Rates start at $149. 415.380.0400, marinhotels.com MILL VALLEY INN Tucked away in a redwood grove at the foot of Mount Tamalpais but still steps away from galleries, fine restaurants, boutiques and theaters, the location couldn’t be better. Ask for a room with a deck or one of the properties cottages. Rates start at $199. 415.389.6608, marinhotels.com MOUNTAIN HOME INN Towering redwoods set the scene for legendary hikes at this rustic (and romantic) retreat. Although there aren’t televisions, guests can test their Scrabble skills by the blazing fire in the property’s game room. Don’t miss a meal at the on-site organic cuisine restaurant. Rates start at $195. 415.381.9000, mtnhomeinn.com
NOVATO BEST WESTERN NOVATO OAKS Relax on the hillside patio or in the heated pool and spa of this 107-room property. Extended stay suites include a full kitchen and dining. Rates start at $129. 415.883.4400, novatooaksinn.com
OLEMA OLEMA DRUIDS HALL History buffs flock to this site, built in 1885 as a meeting hall for the Druids Association. An extensive renovation has added urban comforts, like an apartment-size suite and an on-site boutique, Vita Collage. Rates start at $195. 415.663.8727, olemadruidshall.com THE OLEMA INN Antique furniture, Ralph Lauren linens and down comforters make for ultimate relaxation in this six-room inn. When hunger calls, seek out the inn’s restaurant, a former San Francisco Chronicle top 100 choice. Don’t miss the included breakfast in the dining room—hot croissants, local cheeses, seasonal fruit, coffee and juice. Rates start at $145. 415.663.9559, theolemainn.com POINT REYES SEASHORE LODGE Looking for a little rest and relaxation? Take refuge in the lodge for a quiet evening in the country. Guests can play a game of pool or take a short walk to the Farm House Restaurant next door. The 23 rooms and two cottages all feature heated floors and down comforters. Rates start at $135. 415.663.9000, pointreyesseashore.com
SAN ANSELMO SAN ANSELMO INN The inn’s French wine bar, Sunday afternoon tea session and easy access to downtown are sure to impress. Try the homemade scones at breakfast in the banquet room. Of the inn’s 15 rooms, 13 have private baths and the other two share a bathroom in the hall. Throwing a party? The banquet room can accommodate 60 seated guests and the property has a full commercial kitchen with a list of approved caterers. Rates start at $99. 800.598.9771, sananselmoinn.com
SAN RAFAEL EMBASSY SUITES Each suite includes a spacious living room, two televisions, a refrigerator, microwave oven and coffee maker. If there’s still work to be done try the hotel’s business center, which offers videoconferencing and meeting rooms. Rates start at $169. 415.499.9222, embassysuites.com 142
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FOUR POINTS SHERATON Work out in the fitness center or swim laps in the outdoor heated pool at this 235-room hotel. The Northgate Mall is within walking distance of the property. For long stays, the hotel’s guest laundromat makes traveling easy. Rates start at $145. 415.479.8800, starwoodhotels.com
Look Years Younger As featured on ABC7 News, “Dr. Dean Edell” & KTVU 2 “Mornings On 2”
GERSTLE PARK INN The property may seem intimate with only eight rooms and four cottages but with the 2.5 acres of land owned by the inn, guests have ample room to explore. Fresh flowers, grazing deer in the garden and gourmet breakfasts (made to order) make it hard to leave. Try a night in a king suite, which offers a Jacuzzi tub and luxury linens. Rates start at $189. 415.721.7611, gerstleparkinn.com
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PANAMA HOTEL This historic bed and breakfast boasts a lively neighborhood restaurant with alfresco dining and jazz nights. No two rooms at the hotel are alike but sailors should feel at home in the Captain’s cozy nautical-themed room, while a bride and groom might opt for the Honeymoon Room, complete with claw-foot tub and a Victorian bed. Rates start at $100. 415.457.3993, panamahotel.com
Financing Available • Call Today!
Randall B. Weil M.D., F.A.C.S. Certified by American Board of Plastic Surgery Fellow of American College of Surgeons
SAUSALITO CA SA M A D RO N A H OTE L A N D S PA The hotel exudes the charm of a bed-and-breakfast with the amenities of a luxury hotel. When not indulging in a treatment at the 3,000-squarefoot spa, relax in one of 63 rooms, all featuring wood-burning stoves and claw-foot tubs. Rates start at $199. 415.332.0502, casamadrona.com HOTEL SAUSALITO Said to have been a former bordello, the hotel underwent an extensive renovation in 1996 and now features sixteen rooms and suites with furnishings by local artisans. Guests can take in views of the park and harbor while reading the complimentary morning newspaper and indulging in the hotels selection of breakfast pastries and coffee. Film buffs may remember the hotel as the location for several movies including Mother and Serial. Rates start at $155. 415.332.0700, hotelsausalito.com
www.randallweil.com (415) 781-2081 • (800) 559-3229 San Francisco • Lafayette • San Jose PHOTO OF MODEL
Firm thighs. Lifted seats. Flat abs.
THE INN ABOVE TIDE Most rooms have private decks, fireplaces and oversize tubs, while the vista suite and penthouse offer entertainment centers and wet bars; cocktails, anyone? Rates start at $295. 415.332.9535, innabovetide.com
TIBURON THE LODGE AT TIBURON Guests seeking a fullservice luxury retreat with shopping a stones throw away, can look toward the renovated Lodge at Tiburon. Set amid three acres of landscaped gardens, the hotel is surrounded by more than 40 shops, art galleries and restaurants. Rates start at $189. 415.435.3133, thelodgeattiburon.com WATE R S E DG E Located on a dock along picturesque Main Street and flanked by a bustling restaurant scene–the Caprice, Guaymas, Sam’s Anchor Café, Rooney’s and Servino—the hotel offers 23 guest rooms and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Rates start at $169. 415.789.5999, marinhotels.com MARINMAGAZINE.COM
“The best workout for a lean dancer’s body!” (as seen in Glamour Magazine, Yoga Journal and on Extra) Childcare Available 208 Bon Air Center, Greenbrae (behind Mollie Stone’s) (415) 461-4461 www.barmethod.com
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lishment that brings health and balance to the
“NewSkin Clinic specializes exclusively in pre-
Green Fusion Design Center is a unique retail des-
body, both inside and out,” says owner Kenlynn
venting and reversing the effects of age and sun
tination helping clients create a beautiful, healthy
Wilson. The eco-friendly space uses a multifaceted
on the skin, using minimally invasive techniques,”
environment for their home, business or school.
approach to a healthy lifestyle, all under one roof.
says Medical Director Dr. Robert J. Swanson. “We
“We offer the finest eco-options in flooring, wall
emphasize prevention of premature skin aging.
finishes, countertops, cabinetry, organic bedding
We provide long-term corrections for facial lines,
and more,” says owner Greg Snowden.
Describe your business philosophy. My ultimate goal is twofold: helping people achieve balanced personal health and to do my small part in contributing to a healthier planet by sourcing products from designers committed to sustainable design.
What is your competitive edge? I suppose it’s the unique combination of services and products all under one roof; bodywork, a green space and eco-fashion and accessories. For me, “green” is not a fad, it’s a lifestyle.
What makes you excel at what you do? I love what I do.
From a business standpoint who’s your inspiration? All the individuals who have united their expertise and passion to make their mark and create a greater global awareness both socially and en-
PHOTOS: SHERI MONTGOMERY
vironmentally.
wrinkles and red and brown discolorations, plus long-term solutions for unwanted hair and dis-
What is your competitive edge?
pleasing leg veins.”
A holistic design philosophy and a unique product selection.
Describe your business philosophy. Skin fitness. We partner with our patients to help
Describe your dream client.
them learn how to prevent further premature skin
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie.
aging and provide them with the latest medical techniques to help restore what they have lost with age and environmental damage.
What is your competitive edge? We are a medical practice, not a storefront shop or beauty spa. Each patient receives a private, complimentary and comprehensive physician consultation and is physician-treated.
Which service is your favorite? Although I enjoy the medical techniques of restoration and the patient satisfaction that it brings, I really enjoy giving patients the information that
What part of your business drives you crazy?
empowers them to take control of the factors that
The question, “Isn’t all cotton organic?” I explain
cause premature aging of the skin.
that just like milk, the answer is unfortunately, no.
What makes you excel at what you do?
To produce one conventional cotton T-shirt, onethird of a pound of pesticides and fertilizers are consumed! Kenlynn Wilson, Embodies, 1127 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur, 415.461.6462, embodies.com
Greg Snowden
Our commitment to excellence. Robert J. Swanson, MD, FACS, NewSkin Clinic in the Sanctuary Spa at Bay Club Marin, 272 Bon Air Center, 220 Corte Madera Town Center, Corte Madera, 415.945.9555, newskinclinic.com
Which product is your favorite? The GreenSleep organic mattress.
What did you want to be when you grew up? A James Bond bohemian.
From a business standpoint who’s your inspiration? One inspirational person is William McDonough. I admire his design success. He has the ability to articulate and to evolve green design principles.
What’s the funniest thing that’s happened recently at your business? Kids love coming in here. The other day one of them was hiding in a woven African basket we carry.
Five years from now what challenges will your business experience? Green growth and opening 10 to 30 new stores. Greg Snowden, Green Fusion Design Center, 20 Greenfield Ave, San Anselmo, 415.454.0174, green-fusion.com
PHOTOS: SHERI MONTGOMERY
Kenlynn Wilson
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Marin’s Finest Consignment Shop Manolo Blanik Jimmy Choo Prada Chanel Gucci Hermes St. John …and more
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Eco-paints
415.332.8700 219 Caledonia Sausalito
Plaster
www.lilissalon.com
Floors
Bedding
Bathrooms
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for your healthy home
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MARIN MARCH 2008
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EST. 1965
residential interior design
Marin’s Finest Cabinet Source A professional approach to kitchen, Bath and Total remodel of your home
christa
design
christa quagliaroli 1241 Andersen Drive • San Rafael
415-454-1623 • Lampertikitchens.com
415.309.6938
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sausalito
Experience Sustainable Outdoor Luxury
Swim Spas • Umbrellas • EcoSmart® Fire Outdoor Furniture • Hot Tubs
Design to Completion
NORTHBAY 1812 Polk Street, San Francisco • (415) 567-3700 2100 Redwood Highway, Greenbrae • (415) 924-8811 (Off Hwy 101, Lucky Drive exit, next to Golf Mart) www.marinoutdoorliving.com
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Kitchen & Bath
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BOX CANYON BUILDERS MILL VALLEY, CA TELLURIDE, CO 415-710-7843 SINCE 1989 www.boxcanyonbuilders.com ca lic. #890728
Preserving Marin’s Wood Homes & Decks ESTABLISHED 1995
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Award-Winning Mobile Electronics & Home Theater Systems
Marin’s Original Reclaimed Wood Company
San Rafael Showroom by Appointment 456-1681 3241 Kerner Blvd. www.rollingthundergroup.com
wide plank flooring, siding and beams www.blacksfarmwood.com San Rafael Showroom By Appointment 415.454.8312
We’re far more than building materials Visit our Design & Décor Showroom
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Real Estate - A Good Investment
The most comprehensive public website of active listings and real estate professionals in the North Bay.
STEPHANIE CANNELL. INSURANCE AGENT? OR OBJECT OF AFFECTION? SM
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A Century of Service Painting • Wood Preserving • Waterproofing • Pressure Washing • Restoration of Natural Wood Homes & Decks •
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• Basement & Hillside Home Waterproofing • Mold Prevention • • Interior Moisture & Drainage Specialists • • Insured • References Available •
Call or email today for a FREE estimate! 10 Year Warranty www.bayareamoisturecontrol.net bayareamoisturecontrol@yahoo.com • (415) 884-0500 • CA Lic. #726300
MARIN MARCH 2008
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Hair Loss Concerns?
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Longer, thicker, darker and noticeably lusher looking lashes can be yours with Jan Marini Age Intervention Eyelash Conditioner. Amazing lashes with extraordinary skin care available at Skintique.
Designer Facials • Clinical Peels • Microdermabrasion Dermaplaning • Endermologie Body Contouring Facial Waxing • Acne Management
Toll Free: (888) 680-HAIR (4247) (Northern CA) San Rafael
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415.945.9314 • www.marinlaser.com Monday - Saturday 8:30 - 6:30 pm
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MARIN MARCH 2008
Where honeymoons are the perfect gift! No more toasters! HoneyLuna’s honeymoon registry service provides online wedding registries for honeymoon travel. Create a gift registry of the items and activities of your dream honeymoon. Your loved ones can purchase pieces of your honeymoon and “gift” you memories that will last a lifetime! PO Box 1277 Sausalito, CA
800.809.5862 honeyluna.com
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
M ICROCL I M ATE
BEL MARIN KEYS Marin’s well-kept secret BY JIM WOOD PHOTOS TIM PORTER
1/2 HORIZONAL
ADVERTISER
s the birth of their second child approached, Rick and Kristen
A
Marin Keys. “I could leave the beach for this,” Rick whispered to Kristen
Addicks knew they’d soon have to end their eight-year love af-
on seeing the lagoon-front four-bedroom they eventually purchased.
fair with Stinson Beach. “We needed a larger home and real-
“Like most everyone who comes here, we fell in love with Bel Marin
ized we’d been priced out of the beach’s expensive housing market,”
Keys the first time we saw it,” says Rick, an attorney and full-time fire-
Kristen now wistfully recalls. “We also knew it would be hard to replace
fighter with the Ross Fire Department. Now the couple not only have two
the sense of community and great neighbors we enjoyed in Stinson.”
children but also a sailboat, a ski-boat, two kayaks and a canoe. “This is
A week later, the Addicks family reluctantly went house hunting in Bel
Marin’s best-kept secret,” a contented Kristen concludes.
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153
When it was conceived in the early
to a schedule that includes a Christmas boat
through the house to check out the water, the
1960s, Novato’s Bel Marin Keys was a strik-
parade, June community-wide garage sales, a
dock and the view. If that passes muster, then
ing departure for Marin County develop-
Fourth of July parade and barbecue, summer
they’ll look at the home.” Both Eisen, who’s
ments—its 720 waterfront home sites would
band concerts and tennis tournaments, plus
a past president of the women’s club, and
each be oriented toward water, facing either
the Bel Marin Keys Yacht Club and a men’s
Proaps are longtime residents. “Added all
Novato Creek or onto one of four man-made
and a women’s club. “Rick says the require-
together,” Proaps says, “we’ve lived here 80
lagoons. “Before developer Jack West broke
ment for getting in the men’s club is, ‘Just tell
years—and still love the place.”
into Novato Creek and dredged the lagoons,
a good dirty joke,’ ” Kristen says.
this was nothing but farmland,” Madeline
Bel Marin Keys’ demographics range from retired doctors and dentists to professionals
Thomas recalls. Thomas remembers it well: in September
working in San Francisco to small business
1963, her family was among the first to
owners and those employed in the nearby in-
move in. And as fate would have it, after
dustrial park. And, unsurprisingly, kids: the
dozens of years of volunteering in the com-
community’s flat-as-a-pancake streets and
munity, she’s now interim general manager
many cul-de-sacs seem made for such pursuits
for the county’s Bel Marin Keys Community
as riding bikes, dodgeball and shooting hoops.
Services District. “It’s a fun job,” she says.
As for buying a home here, the lowest
“The neighbors get along, nothing can be
price one could hope for is around $650,000
built anywhere near us, and our two locks
for “a three-bedroom in original condition
keep the entire development free from tidal
facing Novato Creek,” realtor Curt Proaps re-
fluctuations.” The locks also provide boating
ports. From there prices go as high as $1.5
access to Novato Creek, Petaluma Creek and
million for a “totally remodeled lagoon home
San Francisco Bay.
with a nice dock and desired orientation for
Water sports on the lagoons include fishing, sailing, waterskiing and wakeboarding
sunrise and sunset views,” his partner Verna Eisen says.
as well as kayaking, canoeing and paddle-
“Regardless of the listing price,” she adds,
boarding. “However, no jet-skiing,” Thomas
“the first thing buyers do here is walk straight
OPPOSITE PAGE : Homes in Bel Marin Keys face
water; most have docks. ABOVE : All types of watercraft, except jet skis. BELOW , LEFT : High power lines. BELOW , RIGHT : Many cul-de-sacs feature either a small park or a launching ramp.
says, “and no yachts over 60 feet or wider than 18 feet. They can’t get through the locks.” As for land-based socializing, both Kristen Addicks and Madeline Thomas proudly point
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MARCH 2008
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The Beauty of Brown’s Valley. The Legacy of O’Brien Homes. Coming soon to the exclusive Brown’s Valley of Napa, The Glen and The Summit at Hidden Hills will offer a captivating fusion of unique architecture, unforgettable natural beauty and luxuriant features, resulting in one sought-after lifestyle.
Custom Lots Available o
the Glen at Hidden Hills Anticipated pricing from the mid $800,000’s 2,337-3,018 square feet
the Summit at Hidden Hills Anticipated pricing from the low $1 millions 3,176-4,531 square feet
o Join our Priority Interest List.
Prices, terms and features subject to change without notice. Square footages are approximate. Photo is not representative of actual location.
707.226.6319
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MARCH 2008
157
The Bowman Team
We have several new listings coming soon! Call Susan and her team at Morgan Lane Marin for an update on these and other properties currently available.
Susan Bowman Morgan Lane Marin, Inc. 901 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., Kentfield, CA 94904 415/448-1111 sbowman@morganlane.com www.morganlanemarin.com
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GR ANADA GR AND! 146 Granada Drive is a beautiful cape cod style home situated adjacent to the rolling hills of Granada Park. This home is located on a level southwest facing lot with beautiful views of the bay and beyond. The private and fenced rear lawn and patio feature custom landscaping including ferns, hydrangeas, camellias, birch trees and plenty of lawn for the kids to run and play. Inside this four bedroom, two bathroom home are all of the features one would expect. From oak hardwood flooring to custom marble and granite, to designer inspired colors this home has been updated inside and out. In addition, 146 Granada resides within the prestigious
146 GRANADA DRIVE, CORTE MADERA View more photos at www.JimmyMarin.com
FABULOUS CR AFTSMAN
Tiburon School district and is located just minutes from Corte Madera’s Village and Town Center.
459 REDWOOD AVENUE, CORTE MADERA View more photos at www.JimmyMarin.com
Located atop Christmas Tree Hill, this five bedroom, two and one half bathroom home includes a chef’s kitchen and great room, formal living and dining rooms, wine cellar, oversized project room and more. Spectacular views of the Bay, Richmond Bridge, and East Bay hills can be seen from nearly every room. This fabulous craftsman home is conveniently located within minutes of Corte Madera’s shops and restaurants.
The Fine Art of Fine Property TM
Jimmy Wanninger TEL 415.990.8990 24/7 | www.JimmyMarin.com
-
M AGICAL M ARION This private estate home with stunning views of Mt. Tamalpais, is situated within a grove of redwoods amongst a trickling stream and receives all-day southern sunlight. This home boasts five bedrooms, four bathrooms, and includes hardwood flooring, marble and limestone, designer colors, a custom chef’s kitchen, a lovely family room, and extensive outdoor spaces that flow easily inside and out. Great attention to detail can be seen throughout the property. Magical Marion is ideally located within the desirable Cascade Canyon neighborhood, just minutes from downtown Mill
125 MARION AVENUE, MILL VALLEY
Valley, San Francisco and wine country!
View more photos at www.JimmyMarin.com
BEAUTIFUL BUENA VISTA This beautiful five bedroom, three bathroom home is located within a short walk of Corte Madera’s town park, Neil Cummins Elementary school, Town Center and nu merous hiking and biking trails. Interior features include French and tumbled limestone, Calcutta marble, designer carpets and paint. Exterior finishes include shingle and lap siding; a brick patio, covered porch, fenced yard and professionally landscaped gardens.
The Fine Art of Fine Property TM
28 BUENA VISTA, CORTE MADERA View more photos at www.JimmyMarin.com
Jimmy Wanninger TEL 415.990.8990 24/7 | www.JimmyMarin.com
305 HIGHLAND AVENUE, SAN R AFAEL View more photos at www.JimmyMarin.com
MEDITERR ANEAN M ASTERPIECE Atop a long private driveway in an enclave of only 3 homes, this stunning Mediterranean estate boasts panoramic views of the bay and all three bridges. With over 6500 sq. ft. of space, the residence includes 5 en suite bedrooms, 5 1/2 bathrooms, a home theatre and a +1000 bottle wine cellar. The gourmet kitchen features top of the line appliances including Miele and Subzero. Both the kitchen and bathrooms are finished with exquisite detailing in quartzite, granite and marble. Located around a central courtyard with an open floor plan, the home features designer appointed finishes throughout including Italian mosaics, CeasarStone and handmade ceramic tiles. All of the main rooms in this Mediterranean masterpiece open to expansive bay views, outdoor entertaining areas, and level lawns.
The Fine Art of Fine Property TM
Jimmy Wanninger TEL 415.990.8990 24/7 | www.JimmyMarin.com
20 08 SO LD
IN
20 08 IN SO LD 70 Ivy Drive, Ross ~ Listed at $2,100,000
1 Crest Road, Ross ~ Listed at $2,500,000 ACTIVE
94 Cloudview Road, Sausalito ~ Price Upon Request ~ www.EveryRoomWithAView.com
It is my pleasure to represent these wonderful properties. If you are considering selling in the spring, please call me to discuss the value of your property and preparations for listing and selling. For additional information and photographs, please visit: www.MarilynRich.com Marilyn is #1 in all the Pacific Union Marin offices (Greenbrae, Strawberry, Mill Valley, Larkspur, and Novato).
Marilyn Rich
415.464.3741 www.MarilynRich.com
Belvedere Exquisite finishes and attention to detail, smooth, comfortable floor plan offering opulent flexibility and wide appeal for the large family or the workat-home executive. Dazzling views of the Bay, the entire Golden Gate Bridge, the San Francisco skyline and financial district. Formal living and dining rooms, beautiful kitchen with Wolf, Sub-Zero and Miele appliances, adjacent family area, long view-side terrace and breakfast nook with close-up views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Sausalito waterfront. Master suite with large bedroom, adjacent sitting room with built-ins and fireplace, his and her baths/ dressing areas and intimate view-side terrace; large central lounge adjacent to second view-side terrace; separate executive study with full bath; and large media room/gym with sauna and half-bath. Five bedrooms, six full and two half-baths. Offered at $7,450,000
Tiburon Mediterranean waterfront and over 5,100 sq. ft. of luxurious interior on approximately 2.1 acres, with sunny, sparkling pool and spa, exquisite gardens, striking gallery foyer, riveting sunrises and bayside boat house with waterfront ramp. Gourmet kitchen with Viking appliances, large walk-in pantry and adjacent family room with fireplace, built-ins, 4-stool breakfast bar and large bay window overlooking the pool and the San Francisco Bay waters. Master suite with beautiful bath and adjacent covered water-side terrace with pool and garden access. Five bedrooms, four and one half baths. Offered at $4,750,000
For more information, visit globalestates.com
LYDIA SARKISSIAN
BILL BULLOCK
(415) 258-8381
(415) 258-2400
100 TIBURON BOULEVARD, MILL VALLEY, CA 94941 • (415) 381-7300 • www.deckerbullocksir.com © MMVI Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Les Bords de l’Epte a Giverny, used with permission. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a licensed trademark to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. An Equal Opportunity Company . Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated, Except Offices Owned And Operated By NRT Incorporated.
2007
BILL AND LYDIA INVITE YOU TO JOIN THEM
SO
LD
SO
LD
$3,495,000
SO
$3,995,000
LD
SO
LD
$1,395,000
SO
$3,900,000
LD
SO
LD
$1,395,000
SO
$3,895,000
LD
SO
LD
$995,000
$3,650,000
For more information, visit globalestates.com
LYDIA SARKISSIAN
BILL BULLOCK
(415) 258-8381
(415) 258-2400
100 TIBURON BOULEVARD, MILL VALLEY, CA 94941 • (415) 381-7300 • www.deckerbullocksir.com © MMVI Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Les Bords de l’Epte a Giverny, used with permission. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a licensed trademark to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. An Equal Opportunity Company . Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated, Except Offices Owned And Operated By NRT Incorporated.
Sales IN ACHIEVING THESE SAME RESULTS IN 2008
SO
LD
SO
LD
$9,950,000
$21,000,000
Bill and Lydia also represented their Buyers in the following transactions: COMMUNITY
LD
LIST PRICE
Tiburon
$3,995,000
Kentfield
$3,950,000
Tiburon
$2,995,000
Mill Valley Tiburon
SO
S
$7,295,000
$2,850,000
D OL
$2,675,000
Mill Valley
$1,895,000
Mill Valley
$1,750,000
Mill Valley
$1,395,000
Tiburon
$1,350,000
SO
LD
$6,000,000
SO
LD
SO
LD
$3,995,000
$4,495,000
For more information, visit globalestates.com
LYDIA SARKISSIAN
BILL BULLOCK
(415) 258-8381
(415) 258-2400
100 TIBURON BOULEVARD, MILL VALLEY, CA 94941 • (415) 381-7300 • www.deckerbullocksir.com © MMVI Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Les Bords de l’Epte a Giverny, used with permission. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a licensed trademark to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. An Equal Opportunity Company . Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated, Except Offices Owned And Operated By NRT Incorporated.
Tiburon Approximately 9,000 sq. ft. of interior luxury on over two acres, resort-like Mediterranean estate with exquisite pool area, separate one-bedroom guest house/cabana and separate executive office suite. Four en-suite bedrooms in main residence, gorgeous view-side kitchen/family room with breakfast bar and separate breakfast area, formal living and dining rooms and huge master suite with separate study, luxurious bath and dressing area. Media/billiards room with wet bar and beautiful temperature-controlled wine cellar. Gated, private, circular drive, indoor/outdoor fireplaces, two BBQs, spa, four-car garage, and stunning San Francisco Bay, skyline and Golden Gate Bridge views. Five bedrooms, five and one half baths. Offered at $13,900,000
Tiburon The most prominent structure on Mt.Tiburon, gated and entirely private, this world-class contemporary offers approximately 7,500 sq. ft. of glass-walled interior space and absolute unsurpassable views of the entire San Francisco Bay area. Enormous living room with two-story ceilings and walls of glass, large, formal dining room and stunning kitchen, family room with fireplace and separate breakfast area. Top-floor master suite with his and her baths, lavish dressing areas and covered view-side balcony. Two guest suites, au pair quarters, indoor and outdoor spas, courtyard pool and secured parking for 7 cars. Four bedrooms, five full and two half baths. Offered at $11,500,000
For more information, visit globalestates.com
LYDIA SARKISSIAN
BILL BULLOCK
(415) 258-8381
(415) 258-2400
100 TIBURON BOULEVARD, MILL VALLEY, CA 94941 • (415) 381-7300 • www.deckerbullocksir.com © MMVI Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Les Bords de l’Epte a Giverny, used with permission. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a licensed trademark to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. An Equal Opportunity Company . Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated, Except Offices Owned And Operated By NRT Incorporated.
www.SouthernMarinHomes.com
S t r a w b e r r y Po i n t M i l l Va l l e y Enjoy sparkling views of the bay and the San Francisco skyline from this grand Mediterranean style home near the shores of Strawberry Point. Double sweeping staircases adorn the gracious entry and welcome you into this beautifully appointed home. Abundant natural light and an ideal floor plan including: four bedrooms and three luxurious bathrooms upstairs, while a formal living room, dining room, a cozy den as well as two half-bathrooms and a gorgeous eat-in kitchen are found downstairs. Other features include six fireplaces, three car garage, a sauna and two terraces ideal for entertaining. With bay shore paths just steps away, this home offers grand resort-like living with the convenience of Tiburon & Mill Valley shops and services nearby, a pleasant commute to SF and excellent Mill Valley schools.
www.27Heron.com
Offered at $3,995,000
Sharon Faccinto () - sharon.faccinto@pacunion.com
Chris DeNike () - cdenike@pacunion.com
Elegant Georgian Estate Beyond Compare!
COUNTRY CLUB - This magnificent Georgian Colonial is located on 1-1/2 private acres* of spectacular park-like grounds. Constructed with custom craftsmanship in 1929, the home has been expanded and exquisitely remodeled with integrity to almost 8,000 square feet*. The residence with its six bedroom, six full bath and two half baths has elegant high ceilings, authentic paneling and molding, a slate roof, six classic fireplaces plus remodeled kitchen and baths. The grounds of the estate include a pool, spa, tennis court, outside barbeque area, vineyard, rose and vegetable gardens, plus outstanding vistas of San Francisco Bay. www.315Summit.com Offered at $6,950,000 To see more homes and get a glimpse of what’s coming up, please go to her website at www.LindyEmrich.com.
Lindy Emrich (415) 464-3744 lemrich@pacunion.com *Marin County Tax Records – Not verified by agent.
for more information call Ron Parks 415.297.9000 Karen Z. Hardesty 415.265.3344 Chelsea E. Hardesty 415.300.6881
Marin
|
Sonoma
|
San Francisco
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www.visionrealtors.com
Vision Real Estate Welcomes Karen and Chelsea as Owners Karen Z. Hardesty Committed to Extraordinary Service After more than two decades as a leading real estate broker in Marin County, Karen knows what it takes to provide the best service to her clients. That is why she is excited about her move to Vision Real Estate, a dynamic locally–owned boutique firm which provides her with the ideal platform from which to showcase her skills as a consummate negotiator and marketing specialist. Responding to the real estate needs of her clients, Karen makes things happen! She is committed to extraordinary service. t L[IBSEFTUZ!WJTJPOSFBMUPST DPN
Chelsea E. Hardesty Redefining Service in Real Estate Chelsea began her real estate career in 2003 after nearly a decade in the financial industry. Her extensive research and sales experience, combined with her managerial skills, makes for an exceptional fit within the Vision team. She was drawn to the outstanding approach that Vision takes in regards to client service, technology, and professionalism. As a client of Chelsea’s, you will always come first and she will continuously strive to give you the best experience possible in buying or selling your home. She looks forward to the opportunity of doing business with you. t DIBSEFTUZ!WJTJPOSFBMUPST DPN
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Vision Real Estate Welcomes Abbi and Roberta
Abbi K. Fox Abbi became a real estate agent several years ago realizing that it would be a perfect way to combine her passion for attention to detail, and organizational and negotiating skills. In addition, Real Estate allows her to utilize her innate sense for home decorating. The technological support provided at Vision Real Estate is an excellent complement to her belief that what must come first is a strong personal caring for her clients. t BGPY!WJTJPOSFBMUPST DPN
Roberta DiPrete Since 1985, Roberta has been a top producing agent assisting home buyers, sellers and investors in San Francisco, Marin and Sonoma Counties. Roberta received both her law degree and real estate broker license in 1985 and has been exceeding clients expectations ever since. In the current climate, objective information and advice is key to successful relationships and transactions. t SPCFSUB!WJTJPOSFBMUPST DPN
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Karen Z. Hardesty and Vision Real Estate present
90 Gilmartin Drive, Tiburon 4JNQMZ 4FOTBUJPOBM This home radiates charm from the moment you arrive. The traditional architecture is just a preview of the elegance that awaits you inside. Located in one of Tiburon’s most exclusive neighborhoods, this spacious four-bedroom residence provides the setting for an exquisite lifestyle. Formal living and dining plus a kitchen and breakfast room with adjacent family room and game room are the perfect gathering places. The master suite with a fireplace and adjoining deck with spa will make you feel as if you are living at a luxurious resort. Stately bookcase-lined office. Stunning views of Mt. Tam, Richardson Bay and the Golden Gate. Oh what sunsets! Open space in the front and rear protect the privacy and views so important in this location. Sophisticated elegance combined with a casual California style. Threecar garage. Close to the village of Tiburon and only minutes to the Golden Gate Bridge for a painless commute by car or ferry. It doesn’t get any better! Offered at $4,495,000
Committed to Extraordinary Service ,BSFO ; )BSEFTUZ t t L[IBSEFTUZ!WJTJPOSFBMUPST DPN t #SPLFS "TTPDJBUF
Chelsea E. Hardesty and Vision Real Estate present
130 Pepper Avenue, Larkspur Magical Larkspur Located in the sought-after Larkspur neighborhood of Palm Hill, this charming four-bedroom, three-bath home offers a perfect floor plan for a casual indoor/ outdoor lifestyle. The corner lot and traditional architecture, accented by a level lawn and white fencing, gives this terrific curb appeal. The kitchen/great room with eat–in area with doors leading to the pool is accented by stone counters and upscale appliances. The gracious living and dining rooms lend themselves to more formal entertaining. All on one level, with the exception of the spacious master suite which is just a few steps up from the great room. Close to the village of Larkspur with its quaint shops and celebrated restaurants. It doesn’t get any better than this! Please contact Chelsea for a private showing. Offered at $2,395,000
Redefining Service in Real Estate $IFMTFB & )BSEFTUZ t t DIBSEFTUZ!WJTJPOSFBMUPST DPN
LIVE OAK ESTATES
SELEC T FEAT URES
GREEN LUXURY HOMES – CONSCIOUSLY BUILT
• 5000+ sf on 7.42 acres
Live Oak Estates represents a new standard in eco-luxury living. Luxury at the highest level
• 4 en-suite bedrooms
– designed and built consciously with respect for the environment. A rare and unique opportunity
COM IN G S OON . . . Five additional luxury estates
for those who appreciate style, comfort, quality, value and who care about the health of their family
plus 2 half baths • Upper master suite with
and the health of their planet. Estate II, a Green Point Rated home, is an exquisite Old World Mediterranean design with a
sitting room • Main level second master suite
versatile floor plan featuring two master suites. The home wraps around a central courtyard with pool and spa and is encircled by soaring rock walls that provide both security and privacy. A dramatic two-story entry features an elegant curved staircase with wrought iron railing and
• Private 200’ well
towering 15’ tall windows that stream sunlight into the room. The great room – kitchen, breakfast
• Solar heated pool and
bar, dining area and family room – is perfect for casual life while separate dining and living rooms provide for more formal entertaining. This incredible home is a testament to the fact that luxury
spa • PV Solar Electric system
can be green…and that green is luxurious.
• FSC Certified framing
Offered at: $4,450,000
• Energy Star Appliances
For more information regarding all Live Oak Estate properties,
• Low VOC paints
please call or visit the website at www.MarinGreenRealtor.com.
• FSC Hardwood flooring
Abby Kagan, EcoBroker Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist 415.450.0060 (cell) • 415.258.4149 (office) • akagan@fhallen.com
Preferred Lender Andrew Grossman 415.454.8881 direct 415.342.9995 cell andrewgrossman@a-team1.com
Preferred Financing Andy Kristen 415.454.8881 direct 415.342.5118 cell andykristen@a-team1.com
www.rpm-mortgage.com/a-team • 700 Fifth Avenue, San Rafael, CA
STUNNING 1908 MILL VALLEY BROWN SHINGLE This stunningly beautiful home has been remodeled and expanded with exquisite taste and attention to detail. The gracious entrance leads to spacious, elegant living areas. Features 3 plus bedrooms, 2.5 baths, family room, and formal dining room. The street lot has been landscaped in the style of formal Italianate gardens. Located in prime Blithedale Canyon and close to town. Offered at $2,995,000
Avril Couris
415.380.4626 acouris@fhallen.com
Jay Patterson
415.380.4631 jpatterson@fhallen.com Purveyors of Unique Properties
Entering our Fifth Year of Business With Over 200 Staged Properties Sold We are a Full Service Design Firm Offering Real Estate Staging and Interior Design Services See Our Website for More Information on The Benefits of Staging
BARON + BARON DESIGN 3095 Kerner Blvd., Suite G, San Rafael 415.456.4890
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
www.baron2design.com
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How do you determine the right strategy for me?
BUILDING WEALTH THROUGH MORTGAGE PLANNING.
Jesse Caveney 415.454.7378 jesse@premier-equity.com
Are you effectively managing your real estate equity? Mortgages are a large part of your investment portfolio; financial instruments that can help you create and augment your wealth. At Premier Equity Resource Corporation, we work together as a team drawing on each other’s experience and knowledge to help manage your mortgage and provide you the greatest opportunity to increase your net worth. Become part of our family of clients who with our help, have created their own arbitrage, taking the next step toward their financial freedom.
John J. Sutherland 415.454.7379 john@premier-equity.com
Jake Bordessa 415.454.7376 jake@premier-equity.com
Premier Equity Resource Corporation 10 F Street, Downtown San Rafael 877.454.PERC (7372)
www.premier-equity.com Real Estate Broker - CA Dept. of Real Estate Lic #01811655
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Robert Bradford 415.454.7375 robert@premier-equity.com
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
President, Marin Women’s Council of Realtors
91 Dipsea Road Stinson Beach
Judy LeMarr FRANK HOWARD ALLEN REALTORS 415-793-5030 jlemarr@fhallen.com www.marindreamhome.com • 3 Bedrooms/3 Baths • Two Decks and Patio • Attached 2-car Garage w/ Workshop • Serene Lagoon Setting with Private Dock • Gated Community 45 Minutes from SF www.91Dipsea.com
Experience
Service
Results
Offered at $2,250,000
*UST A FEW MINUTES NORTH OF THE 'OLDEN 'ATE YET A MILLION MILES AWAY IS 3EADRIFT AT 3TINSON "EACH &OR OVER YEARS 3EADRIFT #OMPANY HAS BEEN THE EXPERT IN 2EAL %STATE SALES AND PREMIUM VACATION RENTALS IN 3TINSON "EACH AND THE PRIVATE GATED COMMUNITY OF 3EADRIFT #ALL US TODAY TO RESERVE YOUR BEACH HOUSE FOR A WEEK A SUMMER OR A LIFETIME
Ask about our Special Winter Rates! 6)%7 /52 02/0%24)%3 /.,).% !4 777 3%!$2)&42%!,49 #/- !.$ #!,, 53 !4
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D I A LO GUE
John Gray
BY MIMI TOWLE
You could live anywhere. Why
What person has influenced you
Marin? We have access to the city,
the most? My mother was my big-
but live in the country. Downtown
gest influence. She had a generous
Mill Valley feels like a little European
spirit, a contagious positive attitude,
village. In all, Marin is an amazing
and was always supportive of my
place to live, with its beauty and
dreams. She was the one who
sense of community.
encouraged me to write about the gender insights I had been discuss-
What makes you happy in Marin?
ing for 10 years.
Chalking with my granddaughter in Lytton Square, and going for walks
What has been the most
on Mount Tam.
fulfilling moment in your work? I remember a moment in 1996 just
What bothers you here?
before stepping onto the stage to
Traffic — increasing over the last
do a Men Are From Mars presenta-
20 years.
tion in front of a sold-out crowd at Carnegie Hall. My sister turned to
What do you value every day?
me and asked if I was nervous. I
Time I have with my wife. I travel
wasn’t. I told her this is what I was
a fair bit, so I really value time
born to do.
at home. What’s your desert-island What’s your favorite romantic
favorite book or album?
restaurant? No question, a table
Lord of the Rings.
by the window at Gaylord during a full moon.
unwind? My ranch in Mendocino.
Mars, women are from Venus, but prior to John Gray’s 1992 best-selling book of the same name, quarreling
mates might have contended that men are grumpy, warriorwannabe couch potatoes and women are demanding, pushy money pits—or something along those lines. Gray’s insight into gender differences brought humor, understanding and compassion to relationships for millions of readers. His latest book, Why Mars and Venus Collide, due out this spring, helps couples improve their relationships by understanding how men and
What’s your favorite place to
Do you give your daughters advice on romance? I don’t have
What do you like about yourself?
to anymore; my youngest daughter
A lot. I like myself; I like that I have
just has all her boyfriends read
talents that can inspire, entertain
my books. I believe they find them
and truly help people have a
interesting.
better quality of life.
What is your personal idea of
How do you want to be
luxury? Having my three daughters
remembered?
and granddaughter live nearby is a
As the author of Men Are From
Texas-born former Hindu monk and his wife, Bonnie, have lived
luxury. And then, a beautiful home
Mars, and as a loving and generous
in Mill Valley, where they’ve raised three daughters, hiked the
surrounded by nature, the opportu-
husband, father and grandfather.
trails and been active in community life. He can often be seen
nity to go to Hawaii a couple times
at the Book Depot or D’Angelo in Mill Valley or Paradise Bay in
a year and heading to our ranch
Sausalito, contemplating his next adventure.
in Mendocino.
women cope differently with stress. For more than 20 years the
178
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PHOTO: JOHN GRAY PR
N
owadays, it’s common knowledge that men are from
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Refined at every level Aston Martin Marin 195 Casa Buena Drive Corte Madera California USA 94925 415 496 2101 www.astonmartinmarin.com
A Price Family Dealership
Aston Martin Marin invites you to see and drive our new 2008 12 cylinder DB9 and Vantage V8. Two new additions to the Aston Martin family will soon be arriving at our showroom: the 510 horsepower DBS and the 400 horsepower Special Edition N400 Vantage Coupe and Roadster.