MARI N E X T R A O R D I N A R Y
L I V I N G
MAY 2006
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T R A D I T I O N S
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MODERNISM F I N E
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Kashkuli, Iran
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2190 U NION S TREET ( AT FILLMORE ) • S AN F RANCISCO (415) 441.4321 • WWW.KRIMSA. COM I n D e n v e r , S h a v e r - R a m s e y • ( 3 0 3 ) 3 2 0 - 6 3 6 3 • W W W. S h a v e r - R a m s e y . C O M
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32 Main Street • Tiburon, CA • (415) 435-4752
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“ M O ST P O P U L A R P I N O T N O I R ” – W I N E & S P I R I T S , 15 T H A N N UA L R E STAU R A N T P O L L
V i s i t o u r n e w Ta s t i n g R o o m i n d o w n t o w n H e a l d s b u r g . 2 3 5 H e a l d s b u r g Av e n u e , H e a l d s b u r g , C A . O p e n d a i l y 10 : 3 0 a . m . t o 5 : 3 0 p . m . P h o n e 7 0 7. 4 31. 9 4 0 0
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CONTENTS
Features 80 garden design
Magic in the Garden
Kentfield grounds are labor of love for the Campodonico family.
PH OTO: BEN DAVIDSON
story p.j. bremier photos barbara ries
86 life
Country Roads
Marin’s open space is playground for mountain bikers. story austin murphy photos ben davidson
92 journey
A Land Untouched
The mountains, river valleys, and plains of Argentina’s Patagonia. story & photos sean arbabi
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CONTENTS
Departments 62
30
letters
34
at-a-glance
36
marin album
38
snap
46
fashion
Readers respond to Marin Magazine.
Hot tips day by day in the Bay Area.
Capturing a slice of life in Marin. by tim porter
Out and about, in and around Marin. by mimi towle & michal lev-ram
Belly Beautiful Latest in maternity wear. by samantha schoech Life Style Marin’s Julia Violich shares ideas on personal style.
50
fyi Gifts Mother’s Day treats. by mimi towle Home Soaking tub tips. by mimi towle City Streets Exploring Union Street. by mimi towle Books Daniel Handler’s Adverbs. by samantha schoech Performing Arts Shakespeare in Stinson. by michal lev-ram Business Knitting is hip in Mill Valley. by mimi towle Health Seasonal tune up with local wellness centers. by mimi towle People Chef Rachelle Boucher gives back. by samantha bronson
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72
looking back
76
play
Marin in the ’70s. by jim wood
Golf in the kingdom of Marin. by tim porter
M A R I N M AY 2 0 0 6
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CONTENTS
138 125
Departments 101
galleries
105
calendar
114
flavor
115
dish
116
adlib
125
microclimate
138
dialogue
Open studios around the bay in May. by anne crump ray
A roundup of performing arts, events, galleries, and more.
Marché aux Fleurs in Ross Common. by rachel and david cane
The latest in restaurant gossip. by graceann walden
Get to know Marin Magazine advertisers.
Bolinas—mysterious and intriguing. by jim wood
A visit with Jonny Moseley. by samantha schoech
Columns The Cover Magnolias, by photographer
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view from mount tam
32
pov
The creators of Marin Magazine welcome you to share their vision.
Barbara Ries. Her work can be seen at barbararies.com
16
Checking in on Marin County’s political scene. by jim wood
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Editorial editorial director Nikki Wood ext 105 nwood@marinmagazine.com
executive editor Jim Wood ext 106 jwood@marinmagazine.com
associate editors Mimi Towle ext 101 mtowle@marinmagazine.com Samantha Schoech ext 116 sams@marinmagazine.com
editor-at-large Tim Porter tim@timporter.com
editorial assistant Michal Lev-Ram editorial@marinmagazine.com
copy editor/proofreader Andrea Fox
editorial contributors Sean Arbabi, P.J. Bremier, Rachel and David Michael Cane, Katherine Martin, Anne Crump Ray, Graceann Walden
Art art director Trpti Todd ext 112 ttodd@marinmagazine.com
production manager Alex French ext 111 production@marinmagazine.com
contributing photographers Sean Arbabi, Ben Davidson, Sasha Gulish, Sheri Montgomery, Tim Porter, Barbara Ries Marin Magazine One Harbor Dr, Ste 208 Sausalito, CA 94965 phone: 415.332.4800 fax: 415.332.3048 email: editorial@marinmagazine.com web address: www.marinmagazine.com
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publisher Lisa Shanower 415.332.4800 ext 107 lshanower@marinmagazine.com
Advertising advertising director Courtney Q. Roberts 415.332.4800 ext 108 croberts@marinmagazine.com
account manager Lisa Wolford 415.332.4800 ext 110 lwolford@marinmagazine.com
account executive Genevieve Luckel 415.332.4800 ext 109 gluckel@marinmagazine.com
regional sales offices california media marin associates Lora Dinga 415.898.6400
hawaii media matters Kay Hampton 808.395.0088
midwest/detroit murphy media group Daniel P. Murphy/David Tapia 312.857.1200
advertising art director Alex French ext 111 production@marinmagazine.com
Administration controller Jill Harmston ext 104 jharmston@marinmagazine.com
Pedersen Associates Landscape Architects www.pedersenassociates.com 24 H Street San Rafael CA 94901
415 456 2070 26
Volume 2, Issue 5. Marin Magazine is published in Marin County by Marin Magazine LLC. All rights reserved. Copyright©2006. Reproduction of Marin Magazine content is prohibited without the expressed, written consent of Marin Magazine LLC. Unsolicited materials cannot be returned. Marin Magazine reserves the right to refuse to publish any advertisement deemed detrimental to the best interests of the community or that is in questionable taste. Marin Magazine is mailed monthly to homes and businesses in Marin County. Subscription rates are $36 per year. Marin Magazine, One Harbor Drive, Sausalito, CA 94965. Phone 415.332.4800, fax 415.332.3048, email editorial@marinmagazine.com, website www. marinmagazine.com.
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Luxury Retirement Living
V I E W F R O M M O U N T TA M
WE ARE INSPIRED EVERY DAY by the quality of peo-
covered, from a maternity wear fashion feature (“Belly
ple who live in Marin County. According to the Internal
Beautiful,” page 46) and an interview with eight-months-
Revenue Service, California Franchise Tax Board, and
pregnant Fairfax mom Julia Violich (Lifestyle, page 48),
National Center for Charitable Statistics, Marin is sec-
to a selection of thoughtful gifts for the revered women
ond only to Santa Barbara County when it comes to state
in our lives (Gifts for Mom, page 50).
charitable contributions. On average, our residents give
We also discover the genesis of mountain biking in
back 2.66 percent of their household income to worthwhile
Marin (“Country Roads,” page 86), as relayed by contrib-
causes, including helping less fortunate families, affordable
utor Austin Murphy. And for the ultimate in open spaces,
housing, the environment, and, of course, the arts.
we are treated to photojournalist Sean Arbabi’s narra-
28
in Journey (“A Land Untouched,” page 92).
ting the word out on good works: Marin Advocates for
Looking Back returns us to Marin in the ’70s (page
Children for their Runway 2006; Canal Alliance and
72); we explore the mysterious West Marin town of
Strictly Salsa; ArtSFest including Marin Arts Salon; Marin
Bolinas in Microclimates (page 125); tour the county’s
Symphony; and the Smith & Hawkin new store opening
best public golf courses (page 76); and Dialogue with
(with proceeds benefiting the Golden Gate National
Tiburon’s Olympic gold medal winner Jonny Moseley
Parks Conservancy). Continuing with the theme, this is-
(page 138). Finally, a new department, Ad Lib (page 116),
sue features Marin chef Rachelle Boucher, who’s making
gets up close and personal with our advertisers.
a difference with Generation Chefs, a teen-mentoring
As always, our wish is for your good reading. Enjoy
program she developed to encourage confidence and
Marin Magazine, as we continue to celebrate this
healthier living through cooking (page 66).
extraordinary place!
The month of May hints at the emerging summer;
Lisa Shanower, Publisher
it’s the time we get into gardening mode and celebrate
Nikki Wood, Editorial Director
motherhood. This issue of Marin has Mother’s Day bases
Jim Wood, Executive Editor
M A R I N M AY 2 0 0 6
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tive on Argentina’s Patagonian plains, rivers, and valleys
PHOTO: BARBARA RIES
As a reflection of the community, Marin Magazine is partnering this month with several organizations, get-
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/5/06 9:28:38 AM
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LE TTE R S
If I were a cow. By Bryan Flannery Readers respond
my family has been in Marin for generations, I
April’s POV by Jim Wood urges citizens to help
am offended daily by the continuing pressure
maintain a viable Marin economy by “welcom-
to make it the exclusive playground of the eco-
ing new ideas as well as supporting tradition-
nomically advantaged.
Jennifer, via email
al concepts,” and by “giving friendly greetings to neighbors as well as [tourists].” How true!
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.
I’d also suggest the perfection of our bicycle/
Though we live elsewhere, we appreciated
pedestrian greenway, and the rehabilitation
Marin Magazine’s article on “Loving Larkspur”
of our railroad right-of-ways. Recent closures
(MAY 2006). But why no mention of the
of the 101 Freeway dramatically demonstrate
Larkspur Café Theater? We love it! It’s a cen-
how critical alternative north-south routes
ter of everything great about living in Marin:
through Marin are. It’s time the extremely vo-
An early dinner and drinks; shows starting at
cal, miniscule minority of anti-rail advocates
eight and finishing relatively early; and talent
reconsiders their position regarding SMART,
that’s definitely unique, like John Trudell and
the Sonoma Marin Area Rapid Transit.
Mad Dog, The Trailer Park Rangers, or 3 Divas,
Christopher H. Lang, Fairfax
6 Breasts and One Great Night. Come on guys.
Christopher H. Lang is president of the
We’re counting on Marin to tell us the latest;
Fairfax Chamber of Commerce
you’re now the county’s magazine. Seriously, keep up the great work!
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.
Anne Crump Ray’s article and accompany-
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.
Deanna Jackson, San Anselmo
ing photos (“Caught on Film,” MAY 2006) on the ’06 Earthquake were very interest-
Correction
ing. Especially because, following the trag-
In the MAY issue’s Snap/Community section,
edy, my great-grandfather, Lt. Col. George
the photo of former Sausalito Mayor Dennis
Henry Torney, was appointed San Francisco’s
Scremin indicated the woman at his side was
chief sanitary officer. In turn, my grandfather
Councilwoman Amy Belser. It wasn’t. It was
Ned, 26 at the time, photographed the devas-
his wife, Camara Racquel Scremin. Marin re-
tation and its immediate aftermath. Recently,
grets the error and has been assured that no
his photos have been located and are part of
domestic discord resulted.
a presentation jointly arranged by the Marin History Museum and the Moya Library/Ross Historical Society. Any Marin group interested in seeing this program is urged to call me at 415.453.5090.
Richard Torney, via email Maybe, for once, you could take on some real issues in your magazine instead of providing
Bryan’s Fine Foods Corte Madera Town Center
927.4488 www.bryansfinefoods.com
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Dennis and Camara Racquel Scremin
yet another forum for the economically advantaged. Not everyone in Marin is wealthy or has
Letters to the editor may be edited for clarity
servants and the luxury of pondering which
and brevity. Send letters to Marin Magazine, One
spa they will go to today or how they will plan
Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA, 94965.
their wedding. Please understand that while
Or email to jwood@marinmagazine.com.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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POV
The New Guy in Town Fresh eyes on local politics and issues see plenty of potential BY JIM WOOD
for the job). And, Assemblyman Joe Nation
aspirants for state assembly, I’m convinced,
described what he’d do if allowed to “step up”
would do an excellent job in Sacramento.
and be our representative in congress. The event was incumbent-free!
Another impression: Marin has a lot going for itself. I heard about SMART, the
Aside from the rhetorical personal cam-
proposed $350 million Sonoma-Marin Area
paigning, I gained considerable insight into
Rapid Transit line that hopefully will be on
Marin’s problems . . . and potential.
the November ballot. It asks for a quarter-cent
First, the problems. A consensus among
sales tax increase to build a conneting rail line
14 candidates was that the county has three
that has the potential to take thousands of cars
issues in need of resolution, or at least
off Highway 101 (most candidates favored it).
mitigation:
Also mentioned was $25 million in federal money awarded to Marin to develop a county-
1. Congestion, traffic, gridlock—was cited
I
’M A NEWCOMER TO MARIN, having moved here four years ago. The down-
as No. 1 by most candidates. The “Novato
Other topics discussed included the gener-
Narrows” and freeway widening were men-
ously endowed Marin Community Foundation;
tioned often.
the attractiveness and uniqueness of West Marin;
2. Affordable housing for the local work-
Marin’s “excellent array of schools” that, as one
force—many candidates connected this
candidate put it, “must always be a top prior-
issue with traffic, e.g., workers need to live
ity”; and the county’s population base of “mostly
close to where they work.
affluent, well-educated, and caring people.” I
side of this newness is not knowing all the
3. Attracting new businesses—high-paying,
county’s players . . . and not being sure about
close-in jobs in hi-tech and biotech fields;
the area’s challenges. The upside is the same:
several believed hiring a county economic
I’m not friendly with Marin’s powerbrokers
adviser was a good idea.
. . . and don’t have a know-it-all attitude about local issues. I’m looking at Marin with a fresh pair of eyes.
wide network of bicycle and pedestrian trails.
was impressed by the passion and commitment exhibited at this the candidate conference. Next month’s POV will preview the June 6 primary election, which, because of Marin’s overwhelming Democrat registration, will like-
Workable solutions to these issues weren’t
ly make the final decisions for assembly and
spelled out in detail. Each involves entrenched
congress. For now, I’m buoyed by what I saw
and complex conditions that stand in the way
and heard last month. Like few places in to-
of quick and easy solutions. But the three-hour
day’s world, Marin has the potential to solve,
good overview of Marin politics (and politicians)
discussion was lively, insightful, specific and,
or at least mitigate, its problems, be they
in action. Interestingly, no one was campaigning
for the most part, imaginative. Although new
congestion, affordable housing, or maintaining
for the office he or she currently occupies. Two
to Marin, I’ve attended more than my share
a vibrant economy.
city councilwomen outlined what they’d do if
of similar forums elsewhere. This year’s Marin
elected county supervisor. One supervisor stated
candidates appeared intelligent, energetic peo-
why she’d make a good state assemblywoman
ple willing to work hard and put their ideas
(first, she needs to beat eight other candidates
on the line. Case in point: Any one of five
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PHOTO: BARBARA RIES
At a recent conference in Novato showcasing 14 candidates on the June 6 ballot, I got a
That’s my point of view; what’s yours?
Email jwood@marinmagazine.com
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/4/06 2:18:49 PM
Andy Kristen Direct: 415-342-5118 Email: andykristen@A-Team1.com
Andrew Grossman Direct: 415-342-9995 Email: andrewgrossman@A-Team1.com
804 San Anselmo Avenue, San Anselmo, CA 94960
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AT A G LAN C E
M AY MAY 2 Mexican Dance
Join host Debbie Campo of the San Francisco Comedy College for an evening of stand-up at Sam’s Cafe (Tiburon). 415.435.4527, sfcomedycollege.com
Discover the traditions of Mexico at this kid-friendly performance by Los Centzontles. Presented by Youth in Arts at Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.457.4878, youthinarts.org
▼
▼
THRU MAY New Digs
FRIDAYS THRU MAY Out on the Town
MAY 4 Trisha Yearwood
Smith & Hawken unveils the first of its newly redesigned, larger-format stores in Strawberry Village (Mill Valley). smithandhawken.com
Enjoy outdoor dining and entertainment along Tiburon’s Main St., closed off each Friday evening to accommodate pedestrians. 415.435.5633, tiburonchamber.org
Get down to country music by the Georgia-born, Grammy Award-winning singer. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
MAY 6 Secret Gardens
MAY 6–7 Open Studio
Take a guided tour through some of Marin’s most beautiful private gardens; pickup and dropoff is at Marin Art & Garden Center (Ross). 415.482.7983 ext. 401, rossgardentour.org
Browse and buy tiles, tableware, and more at Heath Ceramics (Sausalito). 415.332.3732, heathceramics.com ▼
▼
MAY 14 Mother’s Day
MAY 16 Art Auction
MAY 21 Bay to Breakers
Take advantage of this day to honor the mom in your life. Need help with gift ideas? Turn to page 44.
Looking for something new to hang on the wall? Check out European paintings at Bonhams & Butterfields’ upcoming art auction (SF). 415.503.3263 or 323.436.5488, bonhams.com/us
Wear a costume (and sneakers) and join in on this wacky 12K course, an annual run/walk from Embarcadero to the Great Highway (SF). 415.359.2800, baytobreakers.com ▼
▼
EVE NT S IN MA R IN & B EYO N D
THURSDAYS THRU MAY Comedy Slam
MAY 28 Wine Festival
MAY 29 Memorial Day
Celebrate the fruit of the vine and sample over 50 wineries. Falkirk Cultural Center (San Rafael). 415.453.9001, sanrafaelwinefestival.org
Observe the day with a remembrance program, music, and wreathing ceremonies at Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
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MARINMAGAZINE.COM
3/31/06 3:23:36 PM
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M A R I N ALBUM
Bike the Bay
BY TIM PORTER
Transportation experts call it bike-to-transit—riding your bicycle to connect with a bus or a ferry—but that type of sterile bureaucrat-speak doesn’t capture how you feel standing on the upper deck of the Sausalito ferry, your bike stored securely down below, a strong Bay wind sloughing off your face, and a stronger cup of java warming your hand. For that you need another phrase: an absolutely amazing way to go to work! Most Marin commuters rely on four gas-powered wheels for their passage to the city and back (more than 100,000 vehicles cross the Golden Gate Bridge daily). But a hearty—and healthy—handful of others use two wheels to make part or all of their transbay crossings. Here, a group of brightly-clad riders board the Sausalito ferry for its trip to the Ferry Building in San Francisco. Each weekday, dozens of Marin residents cycle onto a ferry in Sausalito, Larkspur, or Tiburon, an equal number ride from their homes to catch a Golden Gate Transit bus, and, deMay 18 is Bike to Work Day in San Francisco. Golden Gate Transit makes participating easy. All ferries and most buses carry bikes for free, and more than 40 bus stops have bike racks. (Visit goldengatetransit.org for details.) Leave the car at home, for once, and have an amazing commute. 36
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PHOTO: TIM PORTER
pending on the weather, sometimes hundreds bike the bridge itself.
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S N A P HAPPENINGS
Cutting the Red Carpet Oscar Night America
Oscar Parties Despite heavy rains, the Oscars made a big splash in the North Bay with two glamorous annual parties. At both the Christopher B. Smith Rafael Film Center and the Lark Theater, Marinites enjoyed pre-show festivities and watched the 78th Annual Academy Awards in high style, proving that you don’t have to live
Kathryn Johnson
in L.A. to get in on the fun.
Zack Smith, Dennis Scheyer
Mark Fishkin Lark Theater
Katie Jarman with daughters Sarah and Charlotte
Bernice Baeza
William and Roni Mentzer
Marlena Weinstein, John Michael Seltzer
A Classic Affair Music enthusiasts came out to support the Marin Symphony at a recent benefit, held in Checkers’ Classic Car SAN RAFAEL OSCARS: SHERI MONTGOMERY / LARKSPUR OSCARS: TERRY PECK
Museum in San Rafael. The black tie optional event featured cocktails, dinner, dancing, and a silent auction that included items such as musician Grace Slick’s violin.
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Grant Morris, Judith Staples
Tricia and Charlie Loucks
David Bott
Leila Josefowicz, Maria Pitcairn
Noralee Monestere, Frances and Harley White
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
3/31/06 4:32:41 PM
The home of your dreams, the mortgage to make it a reality.
HSBC has financing that’s right for your lifestyle: Free pre-approval* for extra bargaining power Interest only and blended programs Accelerated Approval and other limited documentation programs
Call one of our mortgage representatives today: Amy Ku (650) 222-5645, Retail Sales Manager Larry Lee (415) 793-8866, Premier Mortgage Sales Officer Ryan Kanazawa (408) 590-1169, Senior Retail Mortgage Sales Officer Philip Wong (415) 720-8214, Senior Retail Mortgage Sales Officer Dennis Yee (415) 559-1959, Senior Retail Mortgage Sales Officer
Northern California HSBC Bank USA, N.A. Branches: • Montgomery Street Branch 601 Montgomery Street, San Francisco, CA 94111 • Irving Street Branch 2257 Irving Street, San Francisco, CA 94122 • Oakland Branch 388 9th Street, Suite 121, Oakland, CA 94607
*Mortgage approval is subject to receipt of a satisfactory purchase contract by commitment expiration date, satisfactory appraisal and title report and completion of all conditions stated in your commitment letter. Credit report, appraisal and/or application fees (if applicable) are collected when a purchase contract is submitted. Standard processing and third party fees are collected at loan closing. Issued by HSBC Mortgage Corporation (USA) ©HSBC Mortgage Corporation (USA) 2006
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S N A P HAPPENINGS
Happenings of March Springing Back San Anselmo merchants put on a festive fund-raiser to help local businesses severely damaged by the New Year’s flood. The event featured live entertainment, a fashion show with clothing Lauren Gregory, Cyndi Havard
Helen Gregory, Helen G. Sydney Conroy, Holly Hopper, Marguerite Moriarty
from local shops, food and wine from San Anselmo restaurants, and auction items donated by businesses and celebrities such as Phil Lesh. The party was sponsored by the Downtown San Anselmo Merchants Association, which rep-
Bryan Stubblefield
Green Party
Alaina Yoakum, Barbara Thornton, Judith Hodgens
Dana and Ken Svanum
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local business owners.
Salute the Irish
Barbara Huntingdon, Scott and Beckett Colombo
Marin’s own Barbara Huntingdon and Scott Colombo were among the award-winning designers highlighted at the San Francisco Flower & Garden Show’s Opening Night Gala. Garden enthusiasts from all over the Bay Area enjoyed the sights and smells of 27 show gardens, along with wine, a catered menu, and music. The event benefited the San Francisco Botanical Garden at Strybing Arboretum and the Windermere Real Estate Foundation.
resents more than 50
Soroptimist International of Marin County celebrated St. Patrick’s Day with a party/ fund-raiser benefiting the Jeannette Prandi Children’s Center, the Homework Center at Pickleweed Park, Marilyn’s Fund, and the Penny Jay Fund. Doug McConnell emceed the event, which raised over $50,000 for charities and honored Terry Hennessy of the Marin Builders Association.
Art Talks Former Japanese Prime Minister and ceramic artist Morihiro Hosokawa recently paid a visit to San Francisco’s Asian Art Museum. A crowd of over 200 people—including San Rafael resident Misako Mitsui—gathered to hear the former minister’s lecture on his passion for pottery, sponsored by the Japan Society.
Emily Sano, Misako Mitsui, Morihiro Hosokawa, Kayoko Hosokawa
SAN ANSELMO FUND-RAISER: BRUCE CHERNIN / GREEN PARTY: DAWN STRANNE / ART TALKS: KAZ TSURUTA/ASIAN ART MUSEUM.
Charles Yoakum, Gretchen Ginberg
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S N A P BUSINESS
Three Openings and a Wedding Luxe Travel
Lucky Brides
Over 550 Goyard devotees showed up for French cheeses, caviar, champagne, and “Goyard-tinis” at the luxury luggage brand’s recently-opened San Francisco boutique. The event took place not only in
Jorge Rengal de Alba, Mariana Hagemeister
Diana and Mkulima Britt
Beth Casey, Christine Chyzy, Sterling James
Goyard’s new location on Powell
Soon-to-be brides gathered at the Lark
Street, but also in the Westin St.
Creek Inn for cocktails and a chance to
Francis’ famed Oak Room, which
win a “dream wedding” at the pictur-
was transformed into a French
esque restaurant in Larkspur. Wedding
nightclub for the occasion.
industry professionals—including Amber Rose Photography, Lilly Helene Gowns, and La Bella Party Rentals—were on hand to mingle with the guests, as was Sterling James, former Alice @ 97.3 radio host and a newlywed herself. One lucky bride, Christine Chyzy, walked away with the wedding giveaway, an estimated
Norman and Patrick Hagemeister
Eye Candy
value of $7,500.
Shop for a Cause Bay Area shoppers flocked to the new Eileen Fisher in San Francisco to celebrate the store’s opening with champagne, tasty treats, and, of course, first dibs at the spring collection. It was all for a good cause: 10 percent of the event’s proceeds benefited Global Fund for Women, a foundation that focuses on advancing women’s rights internationally.
Jeremy Gillespie, Isabelle Selby
Susan Rafferty, Scott Bartosiewicz
Local fashionistas ogled the selection at the new SEE (Selective Eyewear Elements) store on Union Street, proving that glasses are both functional and hip. Food and drinks by Fork & Spoon were served, and a portion of the weekend’s sales were donated to PAWS (Pets Are Wonderful Support).
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Shana Sokol, Cynthia Davis, Jim Gundell, Karen King, Beate Sykes
LARK CREEK PHOTOS: AMBER ROSE PHOTOGRAPHY / LUXE TRAVEL PHOTOS: TOM GIBBONS
Beth Townsend, Mark Wagoner
Cliff Demavandi, Kimberly Bakker
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
3/31/06 4:33:57 PM
Welcome to your dream home without changing your address
Luxury Renovation Quality • Cost Control • Punctuality 415-925-8585
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•
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3/31/06 11:24:46 AM
S N A P COMMUNI T Y
Marin Outreach Creating Hope Marin folks partied at a benefit for Ambassadors of Hope and Opportunity (AHO), a nonprofit dedicated to providing housing and guidance to homeless and at-risk young adults. Ten local artists performed at Lucy Mercer, Tim Stone
Clark Blasdell, Zara Babitzke, James Hayes, Molly Kron
the event, held at 142 Throckmorton Theatre, and many more showed up to enjoy music and help Marin’s homeless population. “Typically, people come together after a disaster,” said Zara Babitzke, director and creator of
Ethel Seiderman
Senior Prom
Andy Gellepis, Judy Le Marr, Jim Fischer
AHO. “Tonight we’re gathered to prevent a disaster.” AHO: SHERI MONTGOMERY / SENIOR PROM: SUKI HILL / OZIKU: SYLVIA STEININGER / BOWL FOR KIDS SAKE: FLASH PHOTO
Kimrea, Narada Michael Walden
Bowling for Dollars
Cherie Ashton, Jennifer Blanchet
Over 900 people came out to support Big Brothers Big Sisters of Marin and Napa Counties at this year’s Bowl for Kids Sake, an annual fund-raiser held at Country Club Bowl in San Rafael. Bowlers and volunteers dressed up for the ’80sthemed event, and helped raise money to provide youth in Marin and Napa Counties with caring mentors.
Frieda Muhlheim, Harry Freeman
Marin seniors and Tamalpais High School students danced the night away at the Redwoods Retirement Center’s annual Senior Prom. Local band Swing Fever and dance pro Cynthia Glinka helped transform the Redwoods’ auditorium into a festive ballroom, and a prom king and queen (with a combined age of 187) were picked.
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Creative Fund-Raising “When in Rome” was the theme of the Okizu Foundation’s 12th Annual Art Inspiring Hope Gala, a San Francisco fund-raiser supporting summer camps for children with cancer. More than 500 guests bid on auction items and helped raise over $600,000, while artist Michael Israel entertained with performances of original art.
Cheryl Jennings, Dan Noyes
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
3/31/06 4:34:38 PM
New look, new life, new you!
Real People. Real Results. Odilia is a Smile Makeover client.
A beautiful new smile—perhaps it’s something you've been putting off for far too long? Give yourself a gift that will change your whole outlook on life. Of course you’ll want to entrust your new smile to the right cosmetic dentist and Dr. James Birrell has the artistic skills and expertise to create the natural, beautiful smile you’ve always dreamed of. Visit us today for your complimentary Smile Design consultation. We’ll develop a personalized plan for your new look based on your personality, style, and unique smile. Call the office of Dr. James Birrell at 415-461-0940 or visit our Smile Gallery at www.drbirrell.com. New patients receive a $40 Borders Gift Card with a scheduled comprehensive exam, x-rays and cleaning.
“It has been a privilege to mentor my colleague, Dr. James Birrell, in the art of cosmetic dentistry.” — Dr. Bill Dorfman, ABC Extreme Makeover Dentist
Smile Design
Preventative Care
Veneers
Brite Smile® Whitening
Invisalign®
1321 South Eliseo Drive, Greenbrae, CA 94904
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FA SH ION
Belly Beautiful Say goodbye to smocks, leggings, and sailor collars
MODEL: ANNE-MARIE FRANCHETTI MCMAHON HAIR: SABRINA DENEBIM/IMAGE HAIR SALON MAKEUP: JESSICA HARRIS/MAGNOLIA SALON
and hello to fashion-forward maternity clothes that show off that beautiful belly PHOTOS : SASHA GULISH EDITOR/STYLING: SAMANTHA SCHOECH
This Page: Earrings, $86 at Bella (San Rafael) 415.457.1066. Embellished tank and tiered skirt by Olian, $89 and $73 at Glow Girl (Mill Valley) 415.383.4141. G Series sandals by Cole Haan, $135 at Macy’s (Corte Madera) 415.927.3333. Bracelets $20 each at Macy’s. Opposite Page, clockwise from top left: 1. Shell hoop earrings by Robin Woodward, $34 at Viva Diva (San Rafael) 415.256.8380. Gold disc necklace by Kalen, $70 at Viva Diva. Wrap dress by Motherhood Maternity, $30 at Motherhood Maternity (San Francisco) 415.362.3945. 2. Glass coral earrings and necklace by David Aubrey, $52 and $66 at Viva Diva. Dress by Notice, $202 at Glow Girl. Gold wedge sandals by Nicole, $65 at Bella. 3. Filagree earrings by Kipepeo, $86 at Viva Diva. Dress by A Pea in the Pod, $175 at A Pea in the Pod (San Francisco) 415.391.1240. 4. Earl maternity jeans, $170 at Glow Girl. Tank top by Lab 40, $66 at Glow Girl.
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MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/3/06 11:20:14 AM
MATERNITY FASHION TIPS FROM STYLIST JILL SIEFERT ( jillsiefert.com) Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize. This is the key to making a bold statement without having to buy more clothes. Keep in mind that accessories are some of the very few things you can still wear when you return to your normal size. Buy basic colors. You can wear them over and over, changing your look with accessories. Show off that pregnancy. Clothes that attempt to hide your belly just make you look bigger. Show off your new shape with form-fitting silhouettes—empire waist shirts are a great choice. Don’t deny yourself denim. A great pair of low-rise jeans can last deep into your second trimester. This will vary from person to person, but some people will be able to go the entire pregnancy without buying maternityspecific jeans. Build a foundation. At least one new bra is critical. You will feel more comfortable, and it will make your clothes look better. Get measured often to keep up with your changing size. Share and share alike. If possible, swap clothes with a friend. Also, accept handme-downs—you’ll still need to shop, but they can help form the basics of your new wardrobe. You can never make a mistake with black. Invest in at least one good pair of black pants, a top, and a skirt. Do not buy all your maternity clothes at once. Wait a few weeks between purchases so that you have a wardrobe that lasts you all the way through.
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FA S H I O N
life style Name Julia Violich, MBA/MPH Home Fairfax Occupation Bicycle Company Owner and Consultant What are you wearing? I am wearing a bodysuit from Gap Body, a long-sleeve cotton shirt from Banana Republic, skirt-pants from Naissance on Melrose, and slide mules from Sundance. I am also wearing a keishi pearl necklace from Dorrani Designs. Where would you wear this outfit? I wear clothing like this daily since I don’t have to wear a suit and go into the city. Living and working in Marin has definitely reduced my monthly dry cleaning bill. How long does it take you to get ready in the morning? Maybe 15 minutes. I spend more time getting Luca, my 3-year-old, ready for school than I spend on myself. Describe your personal style. I definitely am more attracted to loose fitting clothes, especially at 8 months pregnant. Tight just doesn’t work. Too loose doesn’t work either. I tend to wear bike clothing or workout clothes a lot since I get out on my bike or teach spin class at least three times a week. What has been your best maternity fashion discovery? I am not much of a fan of “maternity clothes,” but I have found several places in Marin that have styles that can work for maternity wear. I love Gioia and Easy Pieces in San Anselmo, Lindisima in the Bon Air Shopping Center, and Allie G in Mill Valley. Where do you love to shop in Marin? Hands down the best place to shop in Marin is downtown San Anselmo. No parking problems, and everything is there: clothing, jewelry, galleries, wonderful restaurants, books, kids’ clothing and toys, and, of course, coffee! Shopping in a small town definitely beats the mall. I love getting to know merchants and having them actually take an interest in my needs. This wouldn’t happen at the mall. What is always in your bag? I carry a custom Timbuk2 messenger bag. Great for an
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active lifestyle, big enough for my laptop, and stylish enough to bring out. Inside: lots of electronics, my journal, my glasses, and miscellaneous biking gear. What is the single most essential piece in your wardrobe? My most beloved pieces are two pairs of Levi’s 501 jeans that are so tattered and torn that they look more like patchwork quilts. They are the real deal. I didn’t buy them like that, but have worn them (and loved them) for 20 years. I get compliments on them all the time—except from my parents. What would you never be caught dead in? I am not a huge fan of tight-fitting clothing or sequins. What do you splurge on? My husband and my son. I rarely splurge on myself and when I do, it is usually jewelry. I love unique pieces that stand out like silver cuffs or chokers. I wear jewelry when I ride all the time—one of the pleasures of being a woman.
Offering a beautiful selection of European and domestic clothing, jewelry, handbags, shoes, fragrances, and other fine gifts for Mother’s Day.
What is your best cheapo secret? Gap Body. Are you an impulse shopper or do you need time to deliberate? I never go out with the sole intention of buying something for myself. Purchasing bicycling gear is a different story. I’ll spend hours, even days, researching different types of clothing, and purchase them based on their technical qualities and aesthetics.
415.485.0104
Mon-Sat 11-6 & Sunday 11-5 ( p r i v a t e a p p o i n t m e n t s u p o n r e q u e s t) 514 San Anselmo Ave., San Anselmo, CA
What’s your fashion pet peeve? Uggs. I know they are “in” and I should get with it, but I think they are a little silly—especially with short skirts. I coach the Redwood High School mountain bike team and a couple of the girls wear them all the time. What’s the most expensive thing you’ve ever bought? I am not a big spender when it comes to me. However, I do have a bit of a cowboy boot fetish. I have six pairs of dress boots. One of my favorite pairs is bright red alligator with turquoise stitching. Hot! Do they make you happy? Oh yes. I’m happy every time I put them on. What are you most looking forward to being able to wear again? There are a few sexy pairs of jeans I’d like to slip into again. Right now it is hard to believe I’ll be able to again since my belly is so big. I also have some beautiful tops that I can’t button below the top button.
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F Y I GIFTS
Styling Tote For those moms who don’t need to carry the
Wrist Candy
entire contents of a nursery with them, this
Let her know that she’s still the center of your universe with this colorful bracelet made
Avara Yaron fanbag from Ko’ze is the per-
from 18k gold and 10 carats of multicolor sapphires, $3,990 Julianna’s Fine Jewelry (Corte
fect gift for that fashion-forward mom, $149
Madera), 415.924.9711, juliannasfinejewelry.com
Ko’ze (Tiburon), 415.435.1916, getkoze.com
Gifts for Mom
TEA P OT P HOTO: ANTHO NY M ASTERSO N
Here are just a few gift ideas for that mom—or mom-to-be—in your life.
Hip Mama These three dapper diaper bags were all designed by local companies; from left to right: Fleurville, $150, Loom, $130, and Petunia Pickle Bottom, $170 can all be found at Mill Valley Baby & Kids Company (Mill Valley),
Tea Time
415.389.1312, mvbabyandkids.com
Any mom would love this stylish teapot made by Heath Ceramics, also available in Linen, Matte Brown, Redwood, and Moonstone, $157 (Sausalito), 415.332.3732, heathceramics.com
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M AY 2 0 0 6
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/4/06 12:02:15 PM
Say Cheese Document these special years by setting up a session in a professional photography studio. The photo above is by Sasha Gulish Photography, 415.455.9343, sashagulish. com. Other options include Lolo’s Boudouir (Sausalito), 415.350.3232, lolosboudoir. com, or Jennifer Loomis Photography (SF) 415.420.3883, jenniferloomis.com
Facials • Massage • Body Polishes & Wraps • Waxing • Natural Face-Lifting
HAND BAG S , BABY, AND ROBE: SASH A G ULISH
Airbrush Tanning • Acupuncture • New Personalized Detox/Wellness Programs
Cozy ’n’ Chic Let her lounge all day in this luxurious plush robe or PJs with matching pillows and blan-
216 Strawberry Village, Mill Valley, CA 94941 • www.evo-spa.com/marin
kets, all made by San Francisco designer
Call for Reservations 415.383.3223
Karen Luu, $345–$405 Blanc (San Anselmo),
Monday – Saturday 9am – 9pm • Sunday 10am – 7pm
415.485.0104, blancshopping.com MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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F Y I HOME
Soak Creating your own private sanctuary can add value in the long run
Onzen soaking tub surrounded by Ann Sacks bamboo tile
T’S A CLICHÉ, BUT SAFE TO SAY, that
I
tub. “Since it is naturally an open space, the
are so personal,” explains Jeff Fountain, man-
most women love to take baths. Turn
tub is often the focal point of a master bath,”
ager of the SF showroom. “One person’s idea
down the lights, steal a few moments
explains Merwin. “And lately, we’ve noticed
of luxury might be a Michael Smith soaker
of silence surrounded by warm, scented
much more attention being paid to what sur-
surrounded by oatmeal Heath tiles, while the
water, and voilà—it’s back to the pro-
rounds the tub in creating an entire bathroom
next is a three-foot, deep sitting tub, finished
verbial womb. Robin Merwin of Miconi Marble
experience, including glass tiles, natural stone
off with black granite.”
and Tile in San Rafael has helped hundreds
tiles and slabs, and decorative inlaid mats.”
The biggest trend we see in the bathtub de-
of Marin clients in their quest for the perfect
With the cost of tubs varying from under $500
partment these days is the desire to have deep
to over $30,000, Merwin is a pro at helping
soakers, says Merwin. People are changing out
clients create their fantasy bathroom, regard-
their old, narrower tubs for deeper and wider
less of their budget. “There are many ways to
options.
Rectangular tub surrounded by 3x9 sand rutile glazed Heath tile
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achieve whatever look you’re striving for; be it
For those into technology, many added
contemporary, traditional, or something in be-
features are available, including spa-grade hy-
tween, the trick is to be creative.”
drotherapy (bubble massage), chromatherapy
Another favorite option—not for the cost-
(colored light projected through the water),
sensitive—is Ann Sacks, located in the San
mediatherapy (pop-up, flat-screen televi-
Francisco Design Center, where they offer
sions), and—best of all—self-cleaning tubs.
collections from cutting-edge designers like
“Not only does a luxurious tub add value to
Barbara Barry’s mirrored tub surround emulat-
your home in the long run,” Merwin says, “It’s
ing the glamour of the ’40s and Robert Kuo’s
your own private sanctuary, available any day
custom-made, Wavelet copper tub. “Bathtubs
of the week.”
PHOTOS: DOWLING KIMM ARCHITECTS
BY MIMI TOWLE
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/3/06 2:56:04 PM
HISTORY OF THE LUXE TUB
A C C E P T I N G R E S E R VAT I O N S S TA R T I N G A P R I L 5
While Marin County has been touted as the land of hot tubbers, we should really be tipping our hats to the East Bay, where the first whirlpool tubs were created in one of the original Jacuzzi factories at 5327 Jacuzzi Street, currently a hot tub showroom. The short version goes like this: Back at the turn of the 19th century, the seven sons of Giovanni and Teresa Jacuzzi immigrated from Udine, Italy to America, and eventually all ended up in the Bay Area. Eager to make their way, the
SAN FRANCISCO’S LARGEST
“Jacuzzi brothers,” as they were called,
13,000 SQUARE FEET
invented the first enclosed cabin mono-
R E S O R T - L I K E D AY S PA
plane, which was later used by the US Post Office. After a tragic accident, the
LIKE NO OTHER
family concentrated on engineering proj-
HOLISTIC HEALING CENTER
ects closer to the ground, such as water pumps and irrigation. Skip to the next
E S T H E T I C + CO S M E T I C T R E AT M E N T S
generation, and you’ll find young Roy
PERSONALIZED WELLNESS COACH
Jacuzzi taking notice of a homemade hy-
T O TA L B L I S S
drotherapy pump used to ease family members’ arthritic symptoms. By 1968, he created the first integrated whirlpool bathtub named the Roman, possibly inspired by the infamous Roman baths of antiquity. By tapping into the health conscious beat of the ‘70s, this tub, as well as the name Jacuzzi, became a permanent
1161 Gorgas Avenue San Francisco, CA
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part of our culture. Today, Jacuzzi is a multimillion-dollar company that produces elegant whirlpool bathtubs, hot tubs, shower systems, and various other water systems and related equipment.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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Experience Ancient Tranquility In A True Mediterranean Spa For over 30 years, world renowned skin care specialist Katayoun has offered a variety of anti-aging treatments, threading and exclusive European skincare products. Eden Day Spa offers the only authentic Turkish bath in California.
(415) 464-9111 • www.edendayspa.com • 541 San Anselmo Ave., San Anselmo
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F Y I CIT Y STREETS
Union Street Fashion, food, furniture, and much more, Union Street is ever-evolving BY MIMI TOWLE
F
ROM ITS MODEST BEGINNING AS A WELL-WORN dirt path, leading from the developing downtown of San Francisco to the Presidio military base, to its present status as a preferred shopping district for San Francisco’s well-heeled, Union Street is a prime
example of urban evolution, a model of the mixed-use commercial and residential spaces that modern-day city planners are promoting across the country. Historically, the western end of present-day Union Street used to span an area called Spring Valley, a favored grazing spot for local dairy farmers, hence its more familiar name, Cow Hollow. By the 1880s, this rural landscape with breathtaking views of the Bay had become a prime location for wealthy San Franciscans who built impressive Victorian mansions. Within a decade, the cows were evicted and Edwardian-style homes started to line the neatly-planned streets. Today, the prime shopping is located between Steiner and Van Ness, spilling onto side streets like Fillmore. Diverse businesses have lured shoppers over the Golden Gate Bridge for decades. Whether they are drawn to the luxurious facials at Spa Radiance, the unique stationery and invitations at Union Street Papery, or the one-of-a-kind Inuit sculptures from Images of the North, Marinites can be seen on this street any day of the week. Lesley Leonhardt, owner of Images of the North, agrees: “It is so convenient for my clients to come and see what’s new in my collection since we are just minutes from the Golden Gate Bridge.” As a 20-year retail veteran, Leonhardt has noticed an increase in fine jewelry stores and haute couture. “I don’t know what this influx of luxury items means for galleries like mine, but there seems to be plenty of room for everyone,” she says. New and old mix seamlessly. For example, lululemon and Brown Eyed Girl have both moved
PARKING TIPS While there is some coveted two-hour metered parking, your best bet is to use one of the following garages: Union Laguna Parking Facility is on Union at Laguna. 2001 Union Street Garage is on Union at Buchanan. Lombard Street Garage is on Lombard between Fillmore and Webster.
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into brightly-colored, architecturally-preserved Victorians, while well-known brands
1/3 SQUARE
like Armani Exchange and American Apparel are situated in more contemporary buildings down the street. Three Bags Full, on the other hand, has been selling fine cashmere sweaters out of a stately Edwardian storefront for nearly three decades. Walk down the street, explore the quaint alleys, and you’ll find impressive names in fashion
ADVERTISER
like UKO, Bryan Lee, and Abigail Morgan housed in an eclectic mix of storefronts from contemporary to traditional. In addition to clothes and shoes, you’ll find eyewear—including Bjorn and SEE, a new fashion-forward fave for those seeking the ideal frames. To finish off your fabulous new look, visit Simayof, Stuart Moore, and John Atencio, among others, who have joined Union Street Goldsmith in the high-end jewelry category,
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415-381-1255
and are always fun to browse. For something that sparkles but won’t break the bank, check out Jest Jewels, a popular resource for whimsical baubles and bags. One of the newest furniture finds is the ultra-chic Room & Company, located on the
1/3 SQUARE
east end of Union toward Van Ness. Housed in a one-time auction house, this open and airy showroom features modern designs by Herman Miller, Baronet, Bontempi, and Cisco Brothers. More unique home decorating options are available, from gorgeous rugs at Krimsa to lighting at Light Me Up SF, and everything in between. For stylish home items and gifts, don’t miss the
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modern and sleek at Wingard and the new design gallery, Tate & Kennedy, offering fashion forward accesories and unique european objets d’art. And of course there is the food: hot, buttery croissants at Boulangerie, spicy green beans at Betelnut, and great burgers at Perry’s, just to name a few. Union Street has long been famous for its proliferation of street-side cafés as well as fine dining. Two new culinary shopping additions worth mentioning are Home and Chez Maman. So, whether you plan to take a walking historical architecture tour, follow the footsteps of the fashion elite, or find that perfect end table, Union Street is a great place to explore.
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Each year several hundred children are abused and neglected in Marin County. Marin Advocates for Children is the leading agency for the prevention of child abuse and neglect in Marin, and is committed to recruiting and training qualified volunteers to fight for these children and make a difference in their lives. From prevention to intervention, Marin Advocates for Children helps the community build a stronger tomorrow… one child at a time.
Please join us for the second annual corporate and community leaders luncheon and fashion event, Runway 2006, Friday May 19, 2006, at the Embassy Suites Hotel in San Rafael. Advanced Reservations Only - $125 per person. Please make checks payable to: Marin Advocates for Children, 30 N. San Pedro Rd., #275, San Rafael, CA 94903. For credit card ticket purchases and information, please call (415) 507-9016 or visit our web site at www.marinadvocates.org.
Join in the fun and support Marin Advocates for Children by attending Runway 2006.
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FYI BOOKS
A Book About Love Adverbs is the new novel for adults by Daniel Handler, a.k.a. Lemony Snicket playing by the rules. His first novel, The Basic
the publication of the 13th installment this
Eight, is for adults and set at Handler’s alma
fall. Handler plans to keep writing for chil-
mater, Lowell High School in San Francisco.
dren but will be a little quieter for a few
“Because The Basic Eight was set in a high
years. “I don’t want my [2-year-old] son to
school, some editors asked me if I might be
grow up and write a bitter memoir about how
willing to write for kids. I thought it was a ter-
daddy spent more time with other children
rible idea but eventually agreed to meet one
than with him.”
editor in a bar. I had this bad idea [for a kids’
In the meantime, his pen has not been
book], and I figured that once she heard it and
idle. This month his third novel for adults is
agreed that it was a bad idea, at least we’d be
coming out. Adverbs (Ecco, $24) is “a story
in a bar and could have a drink.”
about love, about a bunch of people in and
The idea, of course, was for a series of dark
out of love,” say Handler. The chapters read
and unsentimental books detailing the lives of
as distinct short stories and are only tenu-
children in almost constant mortal danger. The
ously linked by theme and reappearing char-
editor liked it and Handler got to work. “We
acters. “The stories crisscross in unbelievable
were excited but not in the way you’d think—
ways,” he says of the novel’s innovative struc-
not in the we’ll-sell-a-million-copies way. If
ture. “It’s more like life, and less like a season
anyone at the publisher had looked closely at
on Melrose Place.”
the project, they probably would have stopped
Despite the unconventional structure of the
ANIEL HANDLER HAS ALWAYS
D
us, but they let us alone and we cooked up
book, he is wary of the word “experimental”
WANTED to be a writer. “It’s a little
this thing.” The books have ridden high on
when applied to fiction. “If someone hand-
strange to live out your childhood
the bestseller lists ever since, and have been
ed me a novel and said ‘read this, it’s experi-
ambition,” says Handler, otherwise known as
made into a major motion picture starring
mental,’ it would end up on the bottom of my
Lemony Snicket, the tremendously popular au-
Jim Carrey and Meryl Streep. “It’s kind of like
pile.” And it’s true that the word, with its con-
thor of the Series of Unfortunate Events books for
working really hard on a Halloween costume
notations of cold laboratories and calculated
children. “If everyone did that there would be a
and then winning the Oscar for it,” he says of
moves, does not begin to capture the tender
million Supermen and 800,000 veterinarians.”
the surprising success of the books.
heart at the center of Adverbs. While the novel
Like most success stories, Handler’s begins
Much to the chagrin of children every-
with the story of following his dreams and not
where, the series will come to an end with
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may occasionally puzzle you as to who is who, it will always ring true emotionally.
PHOTO: MEREDITH HEUER
BY SAMANTHA SCHOECH
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/1/06 9:40:51 AM
LOCAL TYPE
New books by Marin authors Look for the Moon in the Morning by Leda Sanford ($13, Elders Academy Press) This collection of inspirational essays was written especially for women by Sausalito editor and writer Leda Sanford. Her message? It’s never too late to re-create ourselves, explore new horizons, and enhance our quality of life. Imagining Ourselves: Global Voices from a New Generation of Women, edited by Paula Goldman with a foreward by Isabel Allende ($27, New World Library) This book presents photography, paintings, poetry, fiction, songs, and essays by 105 young women from 57 countries to reveal how this first generation of “global women” think of themselves. Tied in Knots: Funny Stories from the Wedding Day, edited by Lisa Taggart & Samantha Schoech ($15, Seal Press) A collection of smart, laugh-out-loud essays by women that expose the less-than-fairy-tale side of the Big Day. Guests, brides, moms, and maids describe dysfunctional dresses and indecisive brides, oddball inlaws and disappearing rabbis, unsuspecting grooms and drunken dancing, all in comic detail. Includes essays by Marinites Sara Berkeley, Mimi Towle, and Jennifer Ruskin.
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F Y I PERFORMING ARTS
Summer Shakespeare Stinson Beach venue popular with locals BY MICHAL LEV-RAM
Shakespeare once wrote, “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” The same can be said about the Bay Area’s numerous Shakespeare companies: whether modern or classical, large or small, they all provide a fun, relatively inexpensive way to spend a summer evening. Check out our short roundup of local Bard-devoted troupes below: Marin Shakespeare Company Enjoy Shakespeare under the stars at Dominican University of California’s Forest Meadows Amphitheater. This year’s lineup includes King Lear, The Comedy of Errors, and Alice in Wonderland (did Shakespeare write that?), July thru September (San Rafael). 415.499.4488, marinshakespeare.org
Actor Ian Swift performs in Shakespeare at Stinson’s The Comedy of Errors.
California Shakespeare Theater From The Merry Wives of Windsor to As You Like It to The Merchant of Venice, this East Bay Shakespeare theater has got something for everyone. May thru October at Bruns Amphitheater (Orinda). 510.548.3422, calshakes.org San Francisco Shakespeare Festival
ARD-THEMED FESTIVALS BLOOM in spring and summer, and Marin is no excep-
B
tion to the trend. One such local seasonal series is Shakespeare at Stinson (SAS), which began back in 1993 in Barbara Chevalier’s legendary Stinson Beach gardens. Though the small troupe played to a few empty houses in the beginning, it didn’t take long for word to spread, says Jeffrey Trotter, founder and artistic director of
Since 1983, this theater company
SAS. Over a decade later, SAS has become an annual Marin tradition, one with a permanent loca-
has been putting on free (yes, free!)
tion (on the corner of Highway One and Calle Del Mar, about 300 feet from the beach) and a loyal
Shakespeare in the Park productions
following. But some things haven’t changed: the outdoor theater is still small and intimate—it ac-
throughout San Francisco, Oakland,
commodates just 155 seats—and Trotter’s devotion to producing quality plays in a casual, family-
Pleasanton, Cupertino, and San Mateo,
friendly atmosphere remains the festival’s driving force.
from July thru September. To find out this year’s lineup, call 415.558.0888 or log on to the site, sfshakes.org
“The Bay Area theater circles are very small and there seems to be a lot of Shakespeare in the area,” says Trotter. “However, none are as intimate with the audience as our small [troupe] is.” Each season, which starts in May and ends in September, SAS enthusiasts have three shows to choose from. While many productions are modern interpretations of Shakespeare’s works (picture The
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Comedy of Errors set in Venice Beach, California, with surfers and dune buggies, or Twelfth Night set in our very own Bay Club Marin), some emulate Elizabethan times in their use of costumes, sets, and props. This year’s season kicks off with Hamlet, one of Shakespeare’s most famous plays, followed by The Bard of Avon, and The Taming of the Shrew. Part of SAS’s appeal is its location: people come to the beach for the sun, sand, and water, then stay for the Shakespeare. Sure, it may get a little brisk out there, but in its 12 years of production, SAS has had only one rainedout performance—a pretty good track record for an outdoor theater. Shows start early (7 pm on Fridays and 6 pm on Saturdays and Sundays) so that people can spend the day at the beach, then grab a picnic dinner and come to the show. There are chairs for everyone, but audiences are free to bring a blanket and sit on the lawn if they prefer. Good weather and beautiful surroundings are not the only characteristics that keep au-
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diences coming back for more, says Kenneth Kelleher, who has worked with SAS for the past 11 years and is also a resident director at the San Francisco Shakespeare Festival. “It’s the quality of the work that attracts audiences,” says Kelleher, who’s scheduled to direct SAS’s upcoming season opener, Hamlet. “It’s a very intriguing, complex play—we’re going to explore the mind of Hamlet, but keep it simple and modern,” he explains. In addition to their productions in Stinson Beach, SAS plans to take both Hamlet and The Taming of the Shrew on tour this season—to the Hamilton Amphitheater in Novato, the Vallejo Barracks in Sonoma, and Napa Valley. For those who prefer to get their annual fill of Shakespeare while enjoying a glass of wine and picnic dinner near the beach, SAS offers season tickets, special rates on family nights, and even a picnic table if you reserve in advance. “Shakespeare is an extremely popular playwright,” says Trotter. “It makes for great summer fun, and modern audiences seem to love it.” For more information on Shakespeare at Stinson’s upcoming season, call 415.868.1115 or log onto shakespeareatstinson.org.
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F Y I BUSINESS
It’s Hip to Knit Marin welcomes newcomers to the knitting circle BY MIMI TOWLE
Y
OU SEE THEM IN JURY ROOMS, movie theaters, and now they’re back on airplanes— purling, stitching, and backtracking. Silent fingers quickly manipulate strips of fuzzy panels destined for sweaters, scarves, and baby blankets. Unlike many traditional arts,
like, say…basket weaving, knitting has seen a rise in participation and it’s considered quite cool. The act of knitting can be traced back to ancient times, and is usually passed on from parent (or grandparent) to daughter or son. “My grandmother taught me and my sister when we were 9 years old; it’s just something we’ve always loved doing,” explains Julie Stanton, who opened Studio Knit in Mill Valley last year with her sister, Meagan Thurman. Once they had the idea for the studio (which is really more like a salon, with comfy couches and fresh brewed coffee and tea available all day), they couldn’t open it fast enough. “We were panicked that we would miss the trend,” says Stanton. “There are quite a few [knitting salons] in the City and in Seattle—they are Julie Stanton and her sister, Meagan Thurman, owners of Studio Knit in Mill Valley
almost like Starbucks.” So, with an opportunity to live the dream of career satisfaction, the sisters got some design help from Cece Kaufman Interiors to convert a longtime wedding boutique into an inspirational studio. After creating a cool Web site by local Good Dog Designs, they opened shop and are already making plans to expand. Another relative newcomer to Marin’s knitting scene is Warren Agee of Marin Fiber Arts, who moved to the Bay Area for a job in high tech. Warren got the bug when his grandmother (who taught him how to crochet) was put into a nursing home. “I taught myself to knit, and enjoyed the positive feeling it gave me. It’s so tactile. You really get a feeling of accomplishment once you’ve finished a project; it has a soothing effect. Perhaps it’s the rhythmic twisting of fingers around yarn, yarn around needle,” he says, while gleefully demonstrating the process. To help customers get started, Agee has various projects on display. “Knitting and crocheting are creative pursuits. I want to inspire others to learn and explore on their own, but I do offer my design services when my clients are interested in custom-fitted patterns.” Above all else, he says he is drawn to color, and has designed his store to be like a painter’s palette. “I like to stock yarns that come in a broad
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“
. . . I love the idea that I am utilizing our natural resources here in Marin.
Trunk Show May 5th, 6th & 7th Call for an Appointment to Meet the Sticks Designers off for Marin Magazine readers 1/310% SQUARE (this weekend only)
”
— SARAH OLIVER range of colors—not just the basics.” While Warren might agree that the knitting business has usually been the domain of women, there seems to be room for him as well.
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Sarah Oliver, Mill Valley mother of two, turned her hobby into a career, combining a passion for knitting and fashion into her own handbag company. “I love the look and feel of felted knit bags,” explains Oliver, “and after making a few for friends, I decided to try to sell them.” This quickly turned into an inventory issue. She could not keep up with the demand on her own, so she hired a crew from The Redwoods in Mill Valley. Sarah started her own non-sweatshop enterprise, pumping out bags at the speed of . . . . “It’s not the fastest way for me to get my bags knitted,” smiles Oliver, “but I love the idea that I’m utilizing
516 University Palo Alto, CA 94301 (650) 330-1490 412 Corte Madera Town Center Corte Madera, CA 94925 (415) 924-2210
our natural resources here in Marin.” For those of us who missed that intergenerational knitting lesson, it’s never too late to
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learn. There are knitting classes at many of the yarn shops, and most offer free advice if your project turns into a tangled mess. Stanton, a pillar of patience when it comes to her favorite pastime, says, “Most people can learn the basics in a five-week session—and then it will
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MARIN’S YARN SHOPS
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Atelier Yarns, 217 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.256.9618 Ben Franklin Crafts, 136 Vintage Way, Novato, 415.897.2231 Dharma Trading Co, 1604 4th Street, San Rafael, 415.456.1211 Marin Fiber Arts, 1026 Court Street, San Rafael, 415.459.4600, marinfiberarts.com Studio Knit, 320 Miller Ave, Mill Valley, 415.389.9994 Yarn Collection, 930 Redwood Hwy, Mill Valley, 415.383.9276
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Mon 10-6 • Tue-Sat 9-6 • Gift Certificates Available • 415-380-9111 Cove Shopping Center • One Blackfield Drive • Tiburon
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F Y I HE A LT H
Seasonal Tune-up Trying to shake the rainy day doldrums? Check out these two new wellness centers
Vijaya Jhothi greets guests with an array of ayurvedic spices
BY MIMI TOWLE
I
Rafael. The retreat is actually more of a health
for the human body; a thorough diagnostic
center based on an ancient Vedic science. It
followed by a few tweaks, add some oil,
offers yoga and tantra, nutritional counseling,
and we’re good for another ten years. If the
cleansing programs, full body massages, facials
long wet winter has taken a toll on you, here
and a menu of ayurvedic body treatments like
are two new health centers that are guaran-
shirodhara, a forehead treatment that elimi-
teed to help you get your groove back.
nates the deep stresses that lead to insomnia,
“Spring is a great time to cleanse your
depression, or fatigue or Shiroabyanga, a tra-
body,” says Vijaya Jhothi, founder of Safronya,
ditional Indian, stress-relieving head massage.
an ayurvedic retreat situated in a brightly col-
With sister locations in London and Chennai,
ored converted Victorian on D Street in San
India, Jhothi thinks Marin is a great location for Safronya. “I was amazed by the number of yoga studios and devotees here in Marin,” she explains, “Since ayurveda is based on the same principles, it is a natural step for those who enjoy the benefits of yoga.” According to Jhothi, in ayurveda’s view, good health is a result of balance between mind, body, spirit, and one’s environment. And to attain this balance, one must pay attention to diet, physical exercise, lifestyle, meditation,
SenSpa in the Presidio
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psychological well-being, and the serenity that
Spring cleansing tips from Safronya • Make sure you get enough rest, and meditate in the a.m. to prepare for the day. • Increase exercise to remove the stagnation from the winter season. • Drink plenty of room temperature or warm water, and skip caffeinated drinks during a cleanse. Instead, opt for herbal teas to detoxify the liver and blood. • Eat young spring greens to help remove winter accumulation and cleanse the blood. • With your largest meal at lunch, space your meals out every four hours with the last one at 7 p.m.
SENSPA P HOTO: JOHN H . H AC KETT
T’S TOO BAD THERE’S NOT a Jiffy Lube
• Get regular massages to stimulate your lymphatic system. • Consider adding a colon cleanse to your regimen, administered by a holistic health practitioner.
comes with self-acceptance. One important as-
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/3/06 12:26:54 PM
pect promotes the idea that not only does food fuel one’s body, but the wrong food choices can produce lethargy, hormonal fluctuations, and indigestion. In ayurveda, no two people are
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alike and thus, everyone requires individual guidance. Therefore, when a new client comes to Safronya for a consultation, they will be interviewed and analyzed before starting any of the nutritional or cleansing programs. “There is a misconception that you need to completely change your lifestyle,” she explains. “This is simply not true, anyone can enjoy the benefits, whether it means partaking in a cleanse or just a 30-minute hand and foot soak in essential oils.” To find more information on the retreat, as well as articles on ayurveda, check out safronya.com. Across the Golden Gate Bridge is SenSpa, another new health center that offers daily spa treatments in an ultra-chic urban environment— a spacious, renovated WWI army barrack near the new Lucas Studios in the Presidio. The interior design sets the stage for relaxation, with a mix of subtle eastern influences of teak
412 Corte Madera Town Center Corte Madera, CA 94925 (415) 924-2210
and bamboo. Visitors who go for a massage or facial can check in with a wellness coach who will recommend one of the spa’s three path programs: release, restore, and revitalize, which are designed to last for multiple visits, and for a specific health goal in mind. The release path would be ideal as a seasonal cleanse. It includes four coaching sessions, along with treatments like magnetic acupoint cupping, ionic detoxification, and lymphatic massage—all intended to rid the body of stored toxins. “Our mission is to provide people with a healing and wellness center that promotes beauty and optimum health by treating issues at the core,” explains Randy Shrek, president and general manager. “We aim to make wellness accessible for everyone in their everyday lives.” For those interested in Chinese medicine, Master Ming Yi Wang, a well-known Bay Area healer, is on staff to help clients take a noninvasive, integrated approach to physical issues like weak digestion, hormonal imbalance, and weight management. For more information on how these programs work, or for
Invitations, Fine Stationery & Gifts 1118 Magnolia Avenue • Larkspur • 415.461.0120
specific treatments, check out senspasf.com.
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Marin Chef Gives Back Rachelle Boucher creates program to inspire teens BY SAMANTHA BRONSON PHOTOS BARBARA RIES
A
T BARELY 5 FEET TALL and full
scared [of] working with a group of teenagers,
of youthful enthusiasm, Rachelle
but I’m so not.”
Boucher almost blends in with the
Generation Chefs, or Gen Chefs for short,
teenagers she works with. Her spitfire speech
is a free program that teaches Marin students
also reflects the age group, with words like
flashy culinary skills and a true appreciation
“awesome” flowing with ease.
for hard work. This is no textbook-based edu-
Yet, at 39, Boucher is much more than a
cation. This means hands-on chopping, slicing,
peer. As co-founder of culinary education men-
baking, and broiling. The results are anything
toring program Generation Chefs, she serves
but typical teen food—a recent demonstration
as friend, mentor, and chief expectation-setter.
included citrus-glazed salmon with an orange
Boucher and her husband, Robert Roth, began
herb vinaigrette salad.
Generation Chefs in 2001 after taking on teen
The teens begin as interns through a School-
interns at their culinary education and demon-
to-Career partnership with the Marin County
stration company, Savor The Moment.
Office of Education. After completing the 48-
“There was a huge opportunity to change
hour internship, they can become full-fledged
lives,” says Boucher. “A lot of people are really
Gen Chefs, spreading the gospel of good eating
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FY I PE OPL E
and healthy living. The group reaches thousands
young graduates are taking their first steps into
moved to the Bay Area when her brother insist-
of all ages across the Bay Area, through classes
the professional world of cooking, armed with
ed it was the place to nurture her culinary in-
and demonstrations at schools, festivals, busi-
the knowledge they’ve learned as Gen Chefs.
terests. When waiting tables and doing kitchen
nesses, and even prisons.
Those successes are a long way from what
prep work, Boucher was awed by the quality and
In its fifth year, the program is coming into its
Boucher envisioned growing up in Pennsylvania.
own. Boucher and Roth are busy applying for full
She was a fine arts major, but found herself
“I was like, ‘Oh my god! You make your
nonprofit status, as well as preparing their move
drawn to food: “It’s the same as art, but it’s so
own bagels. You carry fresh salmon,’” says
into a state-of-the-art space at the Marin Youth
connected to basic human needs,” says Boucher.
Boucher. “I had never seen anything like that
Center in downtown San Rafael. Meanwhile,
After working in East Coast restaurants, she
in my life.”
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selection of local food.
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“
It’s the same as art, but it’s so connected to basic human needs.
”
The Answer Rises Ev e r y D a y!
— RACHELLE BOUCHER ON FOOD Boucher moved over to Corte Madera’s Viking HomeChef, where she started in sales before managing the kitchen and teaching cooking classes. After one class, a woman asked Boucher to interview for a private chef position with a local family—that of George Lucas. After the initial shock wore off—and her FBI background check cleared—Boucher
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began her three years with the Lucas family. The Lucases were easy to work for, says Boucher, who handled their dinners. They took care of other meals themselves, just one of many ways they remained down-to-earth, she says. The Lucases almost appeared to be a typical Marin family; that is, until someone like Ashley Judd would stop by. Though Boucher never became accustomed to serving such famous guests, she catered to a range of celebrity visitors while she worked there, including Catherine Zeta-Jones, Martin Scorsese, and Harrison Ford. Most of the time, however, she handled the more routine task of cooking dinner for a family, learning that exceptional cooking skills are just one part of the equation. “It’s more based on personality,” says Boucher. “The food’s so secondary.” Inspired by Lucas’ success and her joy
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working with his three children, Boucher
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translated her outgoing personality into Savor
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The Moment. “When you work for somebody as brilliant as that, as impactful, you kind of look around
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and think, ‘What can I do?’” says Boucher. “Teenagers, that’s my thing.” The teens are such a part of Boucher’s life that they often accompany her when catering events for Lucas and other Marin luminaries. For her, these functions are simply another new world for the Gen Chefs. But they do require special rules—staring and autograph-
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hounding are forbidden.
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Although the teens’ backgrounds differ, many of them are so-called “nontraditional learners”—ones who don’t fare as well in a standard academic setting. Learning cooking skills often fits well with their interests and learning styles. Case in point: Natashia Kelley, who was a withdrawn junior when Boucher presented at Madrone High School two years ago. Kelley, now 18, had dreams of becoming a pastry chef and viewed Gen Chefs as her chance to pursue them. Yet during her interview with Boucher, she made little eye contact, mostly staring at her feet. Almost uncommunicative, Kelley spoke in barely audible chirps of words, struggling for breath. Still, Boucher gave her a chance. Although she hid in the back during her
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first few presentations, Kelley gradually developed self-confidence. Now, there’s not a trace of that timid teenager. Articulate and poised, Kelley regularly leads cooking demonstrations in which she interacts with hundreds of strangers. Her cooking skills have also improved dramatically—she can easily create multi-course meals for friends—and she’s been offered an internship by superstar chef Emeril Lagasse to work in one of his New Orleans restaurants. “I definitely attribute it all to Rachelle,” says Kelley. “I don’t know if I’d be where I am if not for her. In two years, she’s done what my mother couldn’t do in 15.” How does such a dramatic transformation happen? Like the other Gen Chefs, Kelley credits Boucher for her tireless energy and her willingness to teacheverything from how to properly prepare oven-roasted vegetables to how to dress. Says Boucher: “I’ll tell them, ‘If you don’t iron, you don’t work.’” And she means it. While Boucher jokes around with the teens, she also demands they arrive on time, appropriately dressed and ready to work hard. If they do not, they risk not only Boucher’s disappointment but also those eight dreaded words: “You would have just gotten fired for that.” It’s no secret Boucher places high expectations on the students, and if they fall short, they’re held ac-
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countable. But when they succeed, they earn her complete confidence. “She really puts a lot of trust and belief
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in the younger generation,” says Gen Chefs founding member Ali Nosti. Along with the nuances of the food industry, Boucher teaches lessons she wished someone had taught her early in her career. Her job, as she sees it, is to take the knowledge she’s amassed over the years—from working in Marin restaurants to teaching classes and cooking for the Lucases—and share it with the teens. One lesson in particular from the Lucas family is now central to the Gen Chefs’ approach. “Rich or poor, you’ve got to make kids eat,” says Boucher. Like children everywhere, she says, the Lucas kids were picky eaters, avoiding vegetables and favoring starchy foods. The Gen Chefs learn that healthy food doesn’t mean boring. They’ve created delectable dishes such as spinach wraps for elemen-
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only is the food delicious, but the Gen Chefs— and their creations—are just plain cool. The Gen Chefs bring that cool factor wherever they go. Dressed in double-breasted chef jackets with their names embroidered in red, the teens make for quite a sight. With such a polished image, people are often surprised to learn their ages. Yet they count among their fans many local adults who frequently ask Boucher about their individual culinary progresses. Despite their coolness, the teens are no food snobs. They’re just interested in making good food accessible and introducing healthy eating habits. With the Gen Chefs’ upcoming move to the Marin Youth Center, the program will inspire even more teens to create a more delicious future through food. “For Rob and me, our passion for working with youth stems from poignant memories of our own need for mentors when we were young,” says Boucher. “Our students inspire us every day with their creativity, enthusiasm, and resilience. That we can spend our days doing this is beyond anything I thought possible.”
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LOOKING BACK
Marin in the’70s
Those who were there tell it like it was BY JIM WOOD
L
ONGTIME RESIDENTS OF MARIN SAY THE COUNTY’S reputation for hedonism traces back to the 1978 NBC documentary I Want It All Now. The show spawned Marin’s image as a haven for divorced parents, over-indulged kids, hot tubs, and peacock feathers.
Millions of Americans watched it, and thousands in Marin cried “foul,” saying the filmmakers had distorted life in this land just north of the Golden Gate.
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Opposite page clockwise from upper left: Steve Sears and Brian Wilson, upon reopening Sam’s Anchor Café in Tiburon, 1978; Point Reyes Station’s annual New Babies Party, 1976; Mill Valley’s Diana Morell, John Smith, and their son Eli, 1971.
Okay, if Marin wasn’t all about self-indulgence in the 1970s, what was it like in that tumultuous decade? Historical truth is always evasive, but in this case it no doubt lies somewhere within these three versions—one from Mill Valley, one from Tiburon, and one from West Marin—provided by people who were here then and are now “telling it like it is.” Or was. “Peacock feathers? Hot tubs? That wasn’t my Marin County,” says Diana Morell, the voluptuous longhaired beauty who appeared topless and nursing her 3-week-old son on a Mill Valley deck in a famous photograph taken by Suki Hill. Standing behind her in the photo was full-bearded John Smith, also longhaired and shirtless. Smith was the boy’s father, but not Morell’s husband. “The picture was taken PH OTOS OP POSI TE PAGE: C LOC KWISE FROM U PPER L EF T: JE FF D OND ERO, ART RO GERS , S U K I H I L L
in July of 1971,” she says. “Two months later,
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John left us.” Morell’s memories of the time are more sweet than bitter. She came west to HaightAshbury during the Summer of Love in ’67 and soon traded the city’s harsh reality and
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rise, drinking water straight from the ground at Rock Springs, meditating for hours on end, and getting by on “about 40 cents a day.” Morell lived in a cabin without heat or electricity. She and Smith had no car. “We hitchhiked everywhere,” she says. “Barefooted.” In Hill’s photo, she and Smith appeared meticulously groomed and happy. “We looked that way because we were so healthy,” says
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Morell. “We were vegetarians and rarely drank
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“
Peacock feathers? Hot tubs? That wasn’t my Marin County
”
— DIANA MORELL
alcohol.” Yes, there were sex and drugs, but not to the extent that’s been portrayed. “Sex was on a back burner, and drugs were only marijuana and occasionally peyote,” she says. “We were definitely into consciousness-raising, but in a natural, tantric, and healthy way.” Was Morell an archetype or an anomaly of life in Marin at the time? “There seemed to be people like us everywhere,” she says, “but spread over Fairfax, San Anselmo, Mill Valley, and parts of Sausalito; I imagine there weren’t more than a couple of hundred of us.” As the ’70s wore on, the back-to-the-earth movement waned, says Morell, and gave way to people who looked like hippies but acted quite differently. “People started copying us,” she says, “but they were driving big cars, doing hard drugs. Possibly, that’s when the hot tub and peacock feather thing began. I don’t know.” Steve Sears and Brian Wilson, owners of Sam’s Anchor Café in Tiburon, have a different
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perspective on Marin in the ’70s—one formed to a great extent from behind a bar. “In 1970, we opened the Refractory Steak House in the Bon Air Center,” says Sears. “It was the time of ‘turn and burn’ steaks, along with a baked
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salad bars; they became the rage.” If hippies like Morell weren’t drinking much, the rest of Marin was. “Brown booze”—Scotch and bour-
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bon—far outsold “white booze”—gin, vodka, and tequila. “And wine, oh my gosh!” says Wilson, slapping a hand to his forehead. “That was only ordered with dinner, and the choice was simple: Chablis or burgundy.” In 1975, Sears and Wilson opened Sid and Jim’s on Shelter Bay in the building now occupied by Piatti’s. Three years later, they purchased Sam’s, which at the time was a dete-
24 hr cancellation requested Credit cards and cash accepted Next door to the Left Bank
riorated tavern on a street that already had five active gathering spots for the young, restless, and mostly single. Was Marin in the late ’70s a
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hedonistic place? “Absolutely,” Sears says with enthusiasm. However, hedonism and wholesomeness coexisted peacefully in Marin then. Wilson tells a story about, ironically, NBC, the producers of the I Want It All Now documentary. “One Sunday in ’79,” he says, “they took over
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our bay-front deck for the Perry Como Show. The place was packed and the guest stars were Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers.” Sears and Wilson—barely into their 30s at the time— were besieged by customers their parents’ age (and older) who wanted to see Como, the era’s popular cardigan-clad crooner. At an opposite corner of the county, in West Marin, photographer Art Rogers was documenting another side of the ’70s. “There was practically nothing in Point Reyes Station back then,” he says. “A hardware store, the post office, a few bars, the feed barn, and three gas stations—that was it.” Rogers also arrived in the Bay Area during the Summer of Love, and bounced around San Francisco and Berkeley before settling in as a West Marin photographer, where he’s remained to this day.
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“At first I lived, in a way, pretty much off the land,” he says. He would travel to other Bay Area cities to teach and take well-paying portrait jobs, but always returned to Point Reyes, where he “lived in the camper shell mounted on the back of my ’54 Studebaker pickup.” Although Rogers was single then, he says his “wild and crazy times” were limited, mostly during the years he rented a studio above the Western Saloon in Point Reyes Station. “Location, location, location,” says Rogers, a big grin accompanying the memory. Sex, drugs, and rock ’n’ roll? Sure, says Rogers, “there were some, but not much. Honestly, the group I ran with was more interested in finding cultural enrichment. I guess we were the ‘counterculture’ that was active [in the area] during that time.” Marin in the 1970s: What was it like? Hot tubs and peacock feathers? Vegetarian diets and empty beaches? “Turn and burn” steaks? Or some combination of all of these, mixed to fit someone’s personal taste or tolerance for adventure? Most likely, the latter. Just like today, Marin in the ’70s had something for everybody.
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PLAY
Golf
in the Kingdom of Marin TEXT & PHOTO tim porter
T DAY’S END, WHEN THE SUN is low
A
Golfers play when it’s wet. Golfers play in
golf gods of the creek and the woods. “It is not a
and the fog curls slyly into Marin’s
watch caps, sweaters, and boots. Golfers play
great beginner’s course,” says head pro Stephen
canyons, the gloaming can mess with
because, well, they must play. Winter was not
Yuhas, who’s put in 22 years in the pro shop. “It
your eyes. Standing on the tee of the petite par-
kind to Marin County—floods, hail, rain, and
is a shot-maker’s kind of course.”
3 7th at the Mill Valley Golf Course, you might
even snow—so in that soggy season of recre-
Golf newbies are better off at Marin’s oth-
see a man, dressed in thick Scottish wool and
ational discontent, only true golfers trafficked
er nine-holer, McInnis Park Golf Center, lo-
wearing rubber golf boots, emerge from the
the county’s many links. On a late winter after-
cated at the end of Smith Ranch Road. Bruce
damp shadows of a redwood grove and think
noon, Sommers was slogging through a round
Wilmott, PGA Director of Golf at McInnis, says
momentarily that Shivas Irons himself was get-
with two companions, one of them 20-year-old
the layout is “user-friendly” and attracts main-
ting in a final nine before nightfall.
Josh Bleyle, the course’s current champion and
ly beginner to intermediate players. Golfers of
a Mill Valley native with a fluid swing he hopes
all skill levels, though, can be found empty-
might carry him into the PGA.
ing buckets of balls at McInnis’ 52-stall driving
You’d be wrong, of course, but only partly. The man in the spiked Oregon Mudders is Allan Sommers, who, at 70, is a longtime
They were carrying on a tradition of Marin
habitué of the nine-hole Mill Valley muni and
golf that began in 1919, when the Mill Valley
does bear a slight physical resemblance to ol’
Golf Course opened. The course is a short, hilly
Wilmott, a Scotsman who has been with
Shivas. But it is in spirit that Sommers and the
track that hugs a forested bowl above Blithedale
McInnis since it opened 13 years ago, says
mythical Scottish golf guru seem most alike: In
Avenue, no further than a Tiger Woods drive
the course hopes to encourage more young-
a world divided into “those who play golf” and
from downtown. It rewards precision over pow-
er players this year and is sponsoring tourna-
those who are “golfers,” Sommers and Shivas
er, and duffers who lack the former are likely
ments for boys and girls, as well as one for
are among the latter.
to donate a half dozen balls per round to the
adult-child teams.
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range; the covered lower level even allows you to practice in the rain.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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Marin has four public 18-hole cours-
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es—Indian Valley, Peacock Gap, San are also two private courses, Marin what’s happening at the public courses: Indian Valley Golf Course 3035 Novato Blvd., Novato, 415.897.1118, ivgc.com Difficulty: “It’s a really fun course to play,” says Jeffy McAndrew, course president. “It’s a challenging course but not the toughest course around. The average golfer really enjoys it.” Pro’s favorite hole: No. 1, a 528-yard par-5. “It’s just a great golf hole,” says
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McAndrew. “With two big oak trees in the middle of the fairway, [it’s] a tough starting hole.” Changes: A new 15th green and a
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rebuilt 9th hole. Deals: Members are given two-week advance tee times, public gets one week for a reservaton. San Geronimo Golf Course 5800 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., San Geronimo, 415.488.4030, sangeronimogc.com Difficulty: Most people consider San Geronimo to be Marin’s toughest course. Sabrina Leunig, assistant general manager, says the front nine is flatter and more welcoming to beginners, while the back is hillier and more challenging. Pro’s favorite hole: No. 6, a 394yard par-4. “A really pretty hole,” says Leunig. “You have to hit off a narrow tee box over a creek” with a 200-yard carry from the middle tees to a landing zone. Changes: A facelift is planned for the clubhouse this spring and a halfmillion-dollar drainage project is underway. Deals: Seven- or five-day memberships include unlimited play and twoweek advance tee times.
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StoneTree Golf Club 9 StoneTree Lane, Novato, 415.209.6090, stonetreegolf.com Difficulty: Marin’s newest course (opened in 2000) is “fair for all levels,” says head pro Brian Paul. It ranks up there with San Geronimo for difficulty, but StoneTree is “a place for the person who really wants quality. There are perfect tees and perfect greens 12 months a year because the drainage is so good.” Pro’s favorite hole: No. 15, a 460yard par-4. “Really tough, really beautiful,” says Paul. “You need three or four really good shots to make par.” (Paul is also “really partial” to the 165yard, par-3 10th because he recently aced it). Changes: The course is adding a fourth tee box on every hole. “Too many men are discouraged from
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strokes better score at the end of the day,” says Paul. Deals: Players Club memberships include preferred rates and tee times,
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and loyalty reward program. Peacock Gap Golf & Country Club 333 Biscayne Drive, San Rafael, 415.453.4940. peacockgapgc.com Difficulty: “Anyone can play,” says assistant pro Eric Johnson, a Redwood High alum who’s been at the course for eight years. “Because we’ve got a lot of hazards out here and it’s pretty windy, it can be pretty challenging.” Pro’s favorite hole: No. 16, a 165yard par-3 over a pond. “It’s a beautiful layout that makes you think too much sometimes,” says Johnson. Changes: A new owner plans extensive changes to the course and driving range this summer, says Johnson. Deals: Memberships allow bookings up to 30 days in advance, public gets
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MAGIC IN THE GARDEN KENTFIELD GROUNDS ARE LABOR OF LOVE STORY P. J. BREMIER PHOTOS BARBARA RIES
IF IT’S TRUE THAT BAD GARDENS COPY, good gardens create, and
enthusiastic Fourth of July celebrations and intimate dinner parties
great gardens transcend, causing the viewer to momentarily lose touch
with friends and family.
with real time, to surrender yourself to the beauty before you, then the Kentfield garden of Anne Campodonico is no exception. If anything, Campodonico’s garden intensifies this experience because
Enjoying the garden with family is what Campodonico’s husband, Tony, enjoys the most, and he says he’s Anne’s “biggest fan. She’s done such a wonderful job.”
you simply are not prepared for its magnificence. Nothing is evident from
Laurie Jake, a regional representative for the Garden Conservancy, ob-
the street to suggest that such drama lies only a few yards away, and no
tained permission to feature the garden on the popular Marin Open Days
tangible hint is offered of the undeniably magnetic pull the space exudes.
garden tour in 2000 and 2005. “It seems everyone I called referred me to
Only by entering the garden, like stepping into the chalk paintings of Mary Poppins’s world, can you feel the magic.
Anne,” she says. Jake remembers Campodonico’s garden as offering “a feeling of tran-
Campodonico has generously shared this magic with others. A
quility,” citing its “magnificent, mature trees” and “sculpted hedges.” It’s
perennial favorite for prestigious civic garden tours, her garden has
a special treat, she says, “to discover a beautiful garden whose owners
been the backdrop for numerous catalog photographs and television
know every plant personally and find great joy in sharing their passion
commercials, the site of charitable fund-raisers, and the setting for
with fellow gardeners.”
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HOME D E S I G N
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Design Lines
The Field of Dreams
Built on a sloping imaginary axis, the one-and-a-half-acre garden ex-
When the Campodonicos bought the property, it was long-neglected
tends visually and physically from the rear patio of the stately 1930s
and overgrown, more of a field than a garden.
shake-shingled house and grand staircase across the lush, sweeping
In fact, for one night each during the first few summers, the couple
lawn to “Jerome’s Patio,” a space named for the figural sculpture within
would invite 12 favorite families to join them at “Camp Odonico.” They
it, and defined by a large, built-in, semicircular stone bench backed by
would drive their cars into the backyard, be assigned a “campsite,” un-
sentrylike columnar forms of thuja. A chunk of the dismantled Berlin
pack their gear, pitch their tents, barbecue their dinner, and then sing
Wall is integrated into the bench.
camp songs around an evening bonfire.
The perpendicular axis flows from the pool, spa, cabana area, and
“Everyone had to stay outside, except to use the bathroom, and
Campodonico’s artist studio, intersecting the lawn as it proceeds to a
then they had to ask for the house keys, which Tony and I wore around
series of private garden rooms hidden behind tall screens of foliage.
our necks,” Campodonico says. “And, no one could leave early.”
“What I like about gardens,” she says, “is structure and architecture,
While the Campodonicos could see humor in their “camp,” they also
the hedging and different shapes that I can create. It’s more fun than
could see the serious work ahead. A decayed orchard was torn out, a tele-
what I’ve planted.” Since her garden is designed for spring and summer
phone pole in the center of the yard removed, a dilapidated swimming
blooms, structure is also what makes it hold its own in fall and winter.
pool filled in, and the garden itself raised a staggering 8 feet.
Steeped in the traditions of the great English gardens, this one was
A stunted, scraggly tulip magnolia, humbled by neglect, was up-
conceived in 1982 when Campodonico would hide away behind the
rooted and planted on the patio above the staircase, where it has sur-
trees in her hammock and dream of the garden she would one day
prised everyone by turning into a stunning showstopper.
82
build. The eight-year
Campodonico had a vision for the garden, but lacked professional de-
process involved por-
sign training. “I’ve always had an artistic eye,” she says. “I’ve always liked
ing over European
colors and putting things together and have always thought of gardens
garden books, visit-
as part of a living area. I wasn’t an artist, although I did want to create a
ing important English
garden that I could one day paint.”
gardens, integrating
At first she sought the assistance of a local landscape firm. “I gave
some of the rustic
them all my ideas and they gave me their schematic,” she says. “When
qualities that she ap-
I got back into my car, I cried all the way home. Their plans could have
preciated about Lake
been anybody’s garden. It certainly wasn’t my garden.”
Tahoe, and then dis-
Then, Campodonico turned to Chris Secor, the architect who had
tilling them all into
helped remodel their home. “I thought he appreciated the house and the
the garden of her
property like I did,” she says. “He helped me with the layout and did the
dreams.
hardscape, the pool, cabana, patio area, and the lighting.”
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Garden of Desire The result is a blend of ordered composition, pleasing geometry, and gentle formality, a garden with a supreme sense of serenity and gentrified graciousness. Roses, sheared golden arborvitae, and colorful perennials fill the terraces of the grand descending staircase; clipped boxwood hedges define the flower beds; stylish succulents spill from urns; climbing and creeping vines soften walls and gates; statuary in the classic style refers to the garden’s roots. “It’s a very serene and peaceful place,” Campodonico says. “That’s why I always like to be in it.” Someone once told her the garden reflected her personality. “I hope not,” Campodonico says. “I like manicured shapes and I like my garden neat and tidy, but I don’t think of myself as a formal person.” Anyhow, she laughs, “I could never get my kids to clean up their things in the house, but I could always go out in the garden and make things the way I liked it, and it would stay that way.” The garden encourages you to linger and explore its secret rooms,
“
What I like about gardens
is structure and architecture, the hedging and different shapes that I can create.
”
pathways, and sudden vistas, to give in to a playful game of hide-
— ANNE CAMPODONICO
and-seek. “Come here,” a room beckons in a whisper, and you find yourself in the White Garden, hemmed in by three close walls of 9-foot-high privets. A parterre of hydrangea, iris, astilbe, foxglove, impatiens, and miniature agapanthus delicately rises in a cloud of color above green foliage.
with winsome charm, delights anyone who happens to glance out the kitchen windows. The garden is a maze of perspectives and views, from the house, from the various rooms, and from hidden corners designed just for a
“Over here,” calls another room, and you follow a pathway under a
visitor to sit and enjoy. “Vistas make a garden more interesting,” says
long arbor embraced by a quintet of twisted wisteria trunks, and lit by
Campodonico. “They give it dimension and a chance to have focal
strings of tiny glittering lights and a simple candelabra. Who’s to say this
points. I like to think that there are ways that you can go from point A
garden isn’t enchanted after all, when one of these wisterias, whose roots
to point B in a garden, and when I design, I always try to find some-
no longer touch the soil, still leafs out and blooms each spring?
thing pleasing to look at down the line. I’m not just looking at what’s
Folly finds a happy home in the Campodonico garden. An aesthetical-
in front of me.”
ly pleasing Ball Garden of clipped Teucrium is punctuated by a statuary
What you don’t see are the mechanics of the garden. A potting shed
collection of upright and alert identical rabbits. A Teddy Bear Tea Party
is discreetly accessed at the back of the rose garden, irrigation systems
Garden, encircled by cut logs, is presided over by the large chain-sawed
are unobtrusive, a decorative fence that separates the garden from the
wooden bear that sits perpetually ready to welcome guests. It was a gift
pool recedes on a track behind foliage, and a cistern, fed by mountain
from Campodonico to her husband on his 40th birthday.
springs and used for irrigation, is sunk into the ground.
Dinner-plate dahlias in whites, peaches, and pinks are slowly re-
It’s been almost 25 years since Campodonico dreamed in her ham-
placing the roses in the bedded rose garden. “I love roses but they’re
mock about this splendorous space, and the garden, like the gardener,
too much trouble,” Campodonico says. “Dahlias give you a lot more
is still evolving. Over the years, she’s noticed a change in her color palette
flowers for very little time invested. There’s just much more bang for
from pinks and purples to orange, peach, and yellow, as well as a new
your buck.”
willingness to let go of some of the care of the garden. Now, she’s look-
Following a side path from the rose-dahlia garden, you come
ing forward to finally painting her garden, and dreams of a garden she
across what appears to be a serendipitously-placed keyhole-shaped
plans for her future grandchildren. “None of my children are even mar-
garden. It was designed to be viewed from above, through the win-
ried yet,” she says, “but I’ve been thinking about making a maze and
dows of the master bedroom. Further along, a pair of kissing putti,
maybe a garden of very short Christmas trees, something kid-sized.”
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L I FE
COUNTRY ROADS Marin County terrain inspired the evolution of modern mountain biking STORY AUSTIN MURPHY PHOTOS BEN DAVIDSON
T
HEY CAME FROM THE FAR REACHES of the Bay Area and from just down the street. Bearing spare tubes and fancy hydration systems, they descended
on a parking lot in Fairfax, the expanse of asphalt around the Java Hut, which, on this one, blessed day, gave out drip coffee and espresso drinks for free. It was November 24, and upwards of a thousand mountain bikers had gathered for a group exercise. Dubbed the Appetite Seminar by its founders a quarter-century ago, it is now widely known as the Turkey Day Ride. The idea is not only to burn some calories in advance of the Thanksgiving repast, but also to celebrate the unmatched mountain biking available in Marin, where the sport first took wing. M A R I N M AY 2 0 0 6
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Mountain biking pioneer, Joe Breeze, with one of his Breezer bikes
“Road biking was a heck of a lot of fun,” says Joe Breeze, a mountain biking pioneer
or Gary Fisher—were taking their “ballooners”
rugged frames specifically for what would only
on tours of Mount Tam.
later be called ‘mountain biking.’”
who was among those taking part in the ride.
“We’d all grown up hiking on the moun-
Breezers begat mass-produced bikes de-
“But this was different.” Breeze, who lives in
tain,” says Breeze. When he and his band of
signed by pioneers like Breeze, Fisher, and
Fairfax, now sells a line of “Breezer” bikes de-
merry men encountered someone on foot, they
Kelly. Spawned in Marin, the mountain biking
signed for commuting and running errands—
would dismount. Civil conversations usually
boom swept the globe. Towns like Moab, Utah,
machines that look nothing like the skinny-tired
ensued. As Breeze remembers it, “[The hikers]
and Durango, Colorado, became havens for fat-
road bikes he raced as a Mill Valley teenager. In
would say, ‘What a novel way to get around
tire freaks. While those mountain biking mec-
1973, Breeze modified a balloon-tired, 30-year-
the mountain!’”
cas have their charms—Moab’s slick rock and
old Schwinn Excelsior and rode it down Old
As years went by and more and more “bal-
stunning red rock formations; Durango’s top-
Railroad Grade, from the middle peak of Mount
looners” found their way onto narrow trails,
ographical variety and endless single-track—
Tamalpais back to Mill Valley. He could not stop
“the expressions changed,” he says. Mountain
neither can top the open spaces, sweeping
grinning. “It felt like the difference between bal-
bikes were declared off-limits on Mount Tam’s
vistas, and mountainous majesty of the county
let and football,” he says. Before long, Breeze
single-track trails in 1979—two years after
where this sport was born.
and his buddies—who on any given day might
Breeze assembled his first “Breezer,” which he
It helps that half the county is designat-
include Charlie Kelly, Otis Guy, Marc Vendetti,
describes as the first “all-new bike built with
ed as open space. “Fifty percent of Marin is
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High priestess of Marin mountain biking and founder of WOMBATS, Jacquie Phelan
Avid mountain biker and owner of Taco Jane’s in San Anselmo, Matteo Boussina
2004 state champions—the Pirates mountain biking squad90 from Drake San Anselmo M A R IHigh N M School A Y 2 0 in 06
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“
Fifty percent of Marin is public land. For an urban area, that’s very, very, rare.
”
— JIM JACOBSON, PRESIDENT OF THE BICYCLE TRAILS COUNCIL OF MARIN
public land,” says Jim Jacobsen, president of
Studies at San Anselmo’s Drake High, where
hikers, birders, and equestrians who, until
the Bicycle Trails Council of Marin. “For an
he also coaches the Pirates mountain biking
then, had the trails all to themselves.
urban area, that’s very, very rare.” By compar-
squad, winners of the 2004 California state
ison, says Jacobsen, only 7 percent of Sonoma
championship.
There are notable, delightful exceptions. You can find challenging single-track trails
County is open space and “Napa may be
“You can be on a ridge with a sweeping
in the Point Reyes National Seashore. There
even less. But here, there are so many places
view of San Francisco, you can be alongside an
is the Tenderfoot Trail, a thrilling, steep, and
people can go.”
alpine lake, or in a redwood forest—and it’s all
root-strewn shortcut from Edgewood Avenue,
good for you!”
just below the Mountain Home Inn, down to
There are also many places mountain bikers in Marin can’t go, but first let’s feast on the
Freeman’s passion about riding in Marin
Mill Valley’s Cascade Drive. And China Camp,
buffet of trails that are available: single-tracks
is shared by Matteo Boussina, owner of Taco
unique among state parks in Marin, allows
in China Camp State Park; the Coastal Trail
Jane’s restaurant in San Anselmo, who de-
bikers on all its single-track trails, making it a
above Muir Beach; Eldridge and Old Railroad
scribes his rides on the mountain as nothing
haven for riders who get off on technical chal-
Grade, which converge on Tam’s East Peak; the
less than “a religious experience” and “one of
lenges. But the most interesting single-track in
Bolinas Ridge Trail, with its awesome views of
the things we live for.”
Marin cuts into private land.
Tomales Bay and its enforced, close encounters with dairy cows.
On a late afternoon in early January, with
“We spent a couple years lobbying the Open
the sun already behind the mountain, Boussina
Space District to open more trails, but that was
From barren ridges to scrub pines and
strapped a headlight onto his bike and went for
very slow,” says Jacobsen of the Bicycle Trails
manzanitas to groves of Douglas fir and red-
a spin on Mount Tam. He’d spent the previous
Council. “So, we decided to build our own.”
wood, “our terrain [in Marin] is so amazingly
three days cleaning the muck from his restau-
It took five years—from 1996 to 2001—and
varied,” says Jacquie Phelan, the high priest-
rant washed in by the New Year’s floods. He was
10,000 hours of volunteer labor to complete
ess of Marin mountain biking and founder
going, he said, “to talk to the mountain.”
the swooping 10-mile single-track loop around
of WOMBATS (Women’s Mountain Bike and
Boussina stopped at the intersection of
Camp Tamarancho, on Boy Scout property
Tea Society, for “women who love mud too
Indian fire road and the Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Trail,
above Fairfax. (Passes for the trail are available
much”). Says Phelan, “I tell myself every time
views of the Richmond Bridge and the East
atboyscouts-marin.org).
I go out, ‘God, we’re lucky.’ If this was the only
Bay spread out before him. He opened a bottle
The availability of Tamarancho has helped
place I could ride, I’d still be the happiest per-
of Belgian beer and “had a conversation” with
cut down on the amount of trail-poaching else-
son on the planet.”
nature about the floods. “What I took from
where. “You still get the odd mountain biker,
The Mount Tamalpais watershed alone—
it,” says Boussina, “was that life isn’t easy, we
high on adrenaline, creating a negative experi-
that area under the aegis of the Marin
need to be strong, and this would help me in
ence for others,” says May of the water district,
Municipal Water District—covers 18,500 acres
the long run.” His parting message to Mother
“but it’s very much the exception. It’s not the
on Tam, “with about a hundred miles of [fire]
Nature: No hard feelings. “I told her I wasn’t
everyday battle it was in the ’90s. [Mountain
roads, the same amount of trails,” says Casey
mad at her, because I love her, because she
bikers] have become more mature, more po-
May, the district’s superintendent of water-
gives me so much.”
litically astute.”
shed resources. May’s turf, together with the
Not that he is incapable of spite. Boussina
Three decades after Joe Breeze and his pi-
Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Mount
makes no apologies for the occasional citation
oneering ilk first repacked the grease in their
Tamalpais and Samuel P. Taylor State Parks,
he gets for riding on trails that aren’t bike-
brake drums after screaming descents down
and the Point Reyes National Seashore, forms
legal. He sees himself not as a scofflaw, but as
the trail that came to be known as Repack,
a glorious greenbelt of open space—mere min-
a pioneer who is “fighting for the rights of all
mountain bikers have arrived at a more or less
utes from a major urban area. “It’s one of the
mountain bikers.”
peaceful coexistence with hikers and eques-
most unique settings in the world,” says May.
Those rights, however, do not include per-
trians. And the folks who oversee the various
Mountain biking is so entrenched in the
mission to ride on most of the county’s single-
open space districts have realized that these
county’s identity that local high schools offer
track (narrow) trails. Thus, Boussina and his
fat-tire freaks are here to stay. As those hik-
it as a club sport. “Look at all this open space,
“Free Mount Tam” allies continue to wage a
ers told Breeze three decades ago, it is a nov-
look at all this land, protected and available
battle that began in the late ’70s, when in-
el way to get around the mountain. Here in
to us,” says Dan Freeman, who teaches Social
creasing numbers of mountain bikers angered
Marin, the novelty never wears off.
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A LAND UNTOUCHED The Mountains, River Valleys, and Plains of Argentina’s Patagonia TEXT AND PHOTOS SEAN ARBABI / ARBABI IMAGERY
Naheul Huapi National Park: still sunset waters create mirror reflections in Lake Lluvuco as the full moon rises over the Andes in northern Patagonia.
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J OU RNE Y
FLOATING ON A RAFT THROUGH A FLAT SECTION of the Rio Manso—clad in helmet and wetsuit in preparation for the treacherous rapids ahead— I reassured myself, “Don’t worry about what’s coming. Just soak it all in. Who knows when you’ll be here again?” So I concentrated on the hillsides and cliffs rising out of the valley, which reminded me much of my beloved Sierra, and I suddenly noticed our two guides doing likewise. That’s when it hit—here were two men who had run this river hundreds of times and yet were still captivated by its beauty. This is Patagonia, a land for the most part undisturbed by human progress and a people who live in harmony with it. M A R I N M AY 2 0 0 6
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A climber prepares his pack for the summit trek across Tronador’s glacier from Refugio Meiling (mountain hut for climbers).
BASE CAMP
THE MOUNTAINS
up to 10-foot wingspans—riding the thermals,
Getting to Patagonia from the Bay Area takes
The Andes are immense. From atop one of the
as they have for thousands of years.
some effort—in my case, 20 hours of flights
range’s snowy peaks, you can see hundreds
to cover the 6,000 southward miles between
more just like it. The mountain trails pass
THE RIVER VALLEYS
Northern California and my destination, the
through lush forests that are great for hiking,
The Rio Manso cuts through the Andes, orig-
picturesque mountain village of San Carlos
biking, and horseback riding, while the high
inating from the glacier melt of surround-
de Bariloche, situated at the base of the cen-
peaks and ridges offer challenges for climbers
ing peaks, flowing through the bamboo and
tral Andes in the northern Lake District of
and mountaineers.
pine forests of Nahuel Haupi and Los Alerces National Parks, and cutting a deep gorge as it
Argentina. Founded in 1902, this Swiss-
“Prrrraaack!” is the sound you’ll hear trav-
styled resort town, with a mix of Italian and
eling across the valleys, as glaciers on Monte
Argentine influences, lies along the south-
Tronador break away from fractured snow-
From our valley lodge, we loaded into an
ern shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi, 1,000
fields on the mountain’s steep couloirs. At
old Land Rover driven by what appeared to
miles west of Buenos Aires. Bariloche is one
11,411 feet, “Thunder Mountain,” as it trans-
be an NFL lineman out of the ’70s—big, un-
of Argentina’s main tourist destinations, re-
lates, straddles the Chilean-Argentine border
refined, long frizzy hair shooting out from un-
plete with quaint hotels, energetic discos,
and is the region’s highest peak. The upward
der a weathered cap. While we drove to meet
and, above all, a great deal of stunning natu-
climb is difficult, but the breathtaking view
our river guides, bouncing along rough moun-
ral beauty. Northern “Patagonia,” as Magellan
is worth it. After a long hike above the tree
tain roads and traversing glacier-fed rivers that
named it, is also where the real Butch Cassidy
line, I arrived at Refugio Meiling, a mountain
rose over our vehicle’s wheel wells, I began to
and the Sundance Kid hung out when on the
hut and rest spot for climbers before they trek
romanticize my trip. “What an adventure,” I
lam, and where Charles Darwin wrote about
onto Tronador’s glacier. Catching my breath,
thought, but before I could wax rhapsodic, our
the vast plains as “created solely to give the
I sat mesmerized at the sight of Andean con-
driver popped open his glove compartment,
imagination room to flourish.”
dors—the world’s largest birds of flight with
grabbed a tape, and jammed it in his tape
94
winds into Chile.
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“
Don’t worry about what’s coming. Just soak it all in. Who knows when you’ll be here again.
”
— SEAN ARBABI
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“
[The vast plains were] created solely to give the imagination room to flourish.
”
— CHARLES DARWIN
A young gaucho rides the pampas atop his white horse along the rugged hillsides and plateaus of Las Mellizas.
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An older gaucho sits proud on his horse near his ranch on the pampas (plateaus of Las Mellizas).
player. R.E.M.’s “Shiny Happy People” blasted
had no choice, so I pulled myself back into the
out of the 30-year-old waterlogged speakers.
raft and on we went.
I chuckled to myself, thinking how the world could grow so small so quickly.
THE PLAINS
Adventure came soon enough, once we
One evening, I was lounging before the din-
were in our our rafts and we met the river’s
ner fire and sipping a diet soda, while waiting
class IV rapids. Our confidence increased as
for a meal of fresh lamb. A gaucho approached
we navigated one stretch of whitewater af-
and said, “My friend, you can’t drink that. You
ter another, but I still waited uneasily for El
must join us and drink red wine with our din-
Tobogan, the river’s largest rapid. When the
ner. It is the only way.” The Argentine pam-
moment came, our guides’ instructions were
pas—a grassland biome of wide, fertile plains
still fresh in our minds, and we paddled hard
that stretch from the Atlantic Ocean to the
into a steep drop hoping to power through the
Andes—are home to the gaucho, the original
churning wave that guarded the rapid’s hole,
South American cowboy. Riding horseback
but we were no match. As we hit, the impact
with these cowboys across the plateaus of
could easily locate the collection of illuminat-
flipped me from the raft into El Tobogan’s vio-
Las Mellizas was an amazing experience. Put
ing pinpoints amassing the Orion constellation
lent current. All I can remember was seeing my
on horseback before they can even walk, the
shining strong in the darkness—and then it hit
legs and the sky above me as I fell head first
gauchos ride with an enviable fluidity, a sharp
me again: Compared to the night sky I can see
into the torrent. My few moments underwater
contrast to my hang-on-at-all-costs style.
from my Bay Area home, Orion was upside
seemed eternal, and when I popped back up
As I spent my last night camped out on the
down. I was in Patagonia, not far from the bot-
my first thought was to find a way down river
plains before heading back to Bariloche for the
tom of the earth—and who knew when I’d be
without having to get back in our boat. But I
series of flights home, I gazed up at the stars. I
here again.
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W I N E CO UNT RY
The Season in Full Swing Mother’s Day, wild flowers, horses, and wine BY KATHERINE MARTIN
T
HE WILD SURGE IN EVENTS from
harp extravaganza at Bartholomew Park in
ar body scrubs might help her shrug off that
April to May signals that this month
Sonoma (707.935.9511; bartholomewpark-
Superwoman suit for a few hours and go for
truly is the beginning of the busy sea-
winery.com) on May 13 and 14. The his-
the requisite blissful zone-out.
son in Wine Country. From croquet tourneys to
toric house and grounds have a regal, Jane
April showers bring . . . well, you know
garden tours to wine tastings up and down the
Austen–like feel to them—perfect for moms
the drill. Wine Country is full of fabulous
valleys, you’ll find there aren’t enough hours
with a penchant for the precious. There’s
blooms in May and most of our wineries boast
in the day to cram in all of spring’s delights.
also a bubbly bash on May 14 at J Vineyards
beautiful gardens. My favorites are Stag’s
The tourist crowds are back, and the bustle
and Winery in Healdsburg (707.431.3646;
Leap in Napa (707.944.1303, stagsleap.
high, but as long as you don’t mind rubbing
jwine.com), with a complimentary food and
com), Korbel in Guerneville (707.824.7000,
elbows with gastronomes from Dallas to the
wine flight (for moms—everyone else pays
korbel.com), and Far Niente in Oakville
Dordogne, you’ll find loads of eclectic fun up
$15) at the bar. Ever tasted J’s bubbly? You’ll
(707.944.2861, farniente.com). Want a
north this month.
want to urge Mom toward this one. If all of
more structured entrée? On May 19 and 20,
May means taking the time to honor the
this sounds too much for a mom who wants
the SCMAAF Garden Tour (a self-guided
woman who taught you to tie your shoes,
a peaceful pamper, think about splurging
foray through country estates, wildlife habi-
sit up straight at the table, and eat Brussels
on a treatment package for her at the heav-
tats, and the like in Sonoma County) will get
sprouts with a smile: your mother. There are
enly Napa Valley Health Spa in St. Helena
you in the gardening mood, and the event
a number of winery events scheduled around
(707.967.8800; napavalleyspa.com).
includes music, art, and a master gardener’s
the 14th, such as the wine, chocolate, and
Seaweed wraps, hot stone massages, and sug-
booth (707.577.0484).
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Another heavy hitter for bloom lovers
Make-A-Wish children will don their whites
radar, but scratch the surface and you will
is Through the Garden Gate on May 27
and swing their mallets in an exhibition match
find some of the world’s most talented paint-
(707.778.4398), a tour through Petaluma’s
that is part of this extremely popular charity
ers, sculptors, and architects setting up shop
private gardens. I sent my in-laws on this jaunt
auction (more than 800 people showed up last
among the vines. San Francisco artist Sean
last year and they enjoyed it so much they gut-
year). Connoisseurs of jazz will be certain to hit
Starr (415.632.6321), who has been tour-
ted half of their garden to re-create some of
the now renowned Sonoma Jazz Plus Festival
ing wineries and painting on site this spring
what they had seen. If your green thumb de-
May 25–28 (866.468.8355, sonomajazz.org),
throughout the valleys, will be creating the
sires a wine glass on which to rest itself, head
where headliners like Natalie Cole and B.B.
9th of 11 vineyard/winery paintings on May
to the May Flowers Fest at V. Sattui Winery
King will sing to the clink of wine glasses near
13 at Pine Ridge Winery in Napa. See first-
in St. Helena on May 21 (707.252.2700, vsat-
the plaza. The hype around this event is well
hand how the vines inspire. On May 20 and
tui.com) where wine, food, and entertainment
deserved—if you love wine and music it should
21, an Italian Street Painting Festival at
help to benefit local nonprofits.
not be missed. And for gourmet food fanatics,
Copia (707.224.8735, copia.org) will bring
We live in the country, but life in Wine
the Sonoma Extreme Epicurean Event at St.
out professional and amateur street paint-
Country is hardly about chewing hay and tip-
Francis Winery and the Sonoma Mission Inn
ers who create art on the pavement in chalk.
ping cows, as a number of fetes this month em-
in Sonoma May 4–6 (800.441.1414, Fairmont.
This is a great family event and the artwork
phasize. First, there’s the hunter/jumper show
com/sonoma) is a weekend of Wine Country
really is astoundingly good. Also on the art ra-
at the Napa Valley Equestrian Center on
picnics, cheese courses, chef-prepared repasts,
dar: Sebastopol’s monthly ARTwalk on May 4
May 7 (707.255.0302, napahorses.com)—
and quality wine quaffing.
(707.823.3032, Sebastopol.org)—a strolling
where riders of all ages compete in walk/trot
It’s no surprise that Wine Country attracts
and cross rail hunter events throughout the
artists from all over the world—our light alone
day. On May 20 in Windsor at Sonoma-Cutrer
is said to be some of the best in the world for
The frenzy is under way in Wine Country,
Vineyards (707.528-1181, sonomacutrer.
pastel painters. The art community here tends
with warm weather and events offering en-
com), local professional croquet players and
to be closely knit and deliberately under the
lightenment for every type of traveler.
tour of art displays in galleries, restaurants, and businesses in town.
the
winning pick...
The BDI Avion: “Best Buy in Flat-Panel TV Mounts and Stands.” – Consumer Digest
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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Jeff Faust, “Spring”, 18x14 inches, 2005
Steve Emery & Kathleen Lipinski Paintings & Prints
Kathleen Lipinski, “Mt. Tamalpais from San Anselmo”, oil on canvas, 30” x 48”
Open Studio as part of Marin Open Studios
Saturday & Sunday • May 13 & 14 • 11 am-5 pm • 38 San Francisco Boulevard • San Anselmo (415) 453-3648 • emerylipinski.com • Art also shown by appointment
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GAL L E RI E S
Art, Up Close and Personal Open studios events around the Bay Area offer unparalleled access and opportunities for discovery—and bargain shopping BY ANNE CRUMP RAY
T
graphic area they encompass—but navigat-
artists, so it is no wonder thou-
the East Bay—has its own coordinating body
encompass roughly 300 artists throughout
sands of artists call this segment of Northern
that keeps a master list of participants, com-
the county, notes Pam Morton, MAC’s pro-
California home. And while visiting local gal-
piles visitor guides, and distributes signs to
gram director. Each Open Studios weekend
leries affords a wonderful introduction to
help direct traffic to participating studios.
is devoted to a particular geographic area
HE BAY AREA’S natural beau-
sponsored the Open Studios event for the
ty, cosmopolitan character, and
ing the options is quite manageable, thanks
last 11 years. Marin Open Studios started as
reputation for intellectual curi-
to some well-honed organizing efforts.
a grassroots effort, instigated by three lo-
osity make it fertile ground for
Each locale—Marin, San Francisco, and
cal artists 13 years ago, but it has grown to
some of the Bay Area’s creative output, one
Marin Open Studios, which takes place
to make it easier for people to maximize the
of the best ways to get a sense of the variety
from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. the weekends of May
number of studios they visit: The first week-
and breadth of art practiced here is to go
6 and May 13, is organized by the Marin
end targets southern and central Marin; the
straight to the source: the artists’ studios.
Arts Council, a nonprofit art center and ser-
second, northern and western portions of
vice agency based in San Rafael which has
the county.
Twice a year—in spring and fall—hundreds of artists open the doors of their studios to the public, inviting locals and tourists to explore the region and spend a few days meeting artists, seeing where they work, perusing works of art, and maybe even taking home some newfound treasures. During four weekends in May and June, art lovers have the opportunity to visit the studios of nearly 1,000 artists in Marin County, San Francisco, and the East Bay. The sheer number of participants can seem overwhelming at first blush—especially considering the vast geoMARINMAGAZINE.COM
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Previous page, above: Cornelia St., 24˝ x 30˝ oil painting by Carol Jessen; below: landscape by Marilyn Greenblat; this page, at right: Limbic System, digitized photo of sculpture in Exploratorium, 20˝ x 24˝, all shown at Hunters Point Open Studio
“In any given year we have about 200 repeat artists from the previous year and about 100 artists who are new to Open Studios or who haven’t participated in the last year,” says Morton. While the Marin Open Studios guide, which is distributed throughout the county at bookstores, coffeehouses, and various other locations, includes listings for par-
want to see,” Hamel says, noting that The
tails about gallery hours and related events,
ticipating artists accompanied by pictures
Point’s event features gourmet food ven-
contact Pro Arts or visit its Web site.)
of their artwork, MAC hosts a preview exhi-
dors and picnic spots to encourage visitors
“Open studios gives people the chance
bition at a local gallery before and during
to spend the day at the shipyard. “If your
to meet with artists in their studios, to talk
Open Studios to give visitors a better idea of
feet get tired or you get overstimulated, you
with them directly, and to see things they
the array of works represented and to help
can come sit outside, refresh, and look at
won’t necessarily see in the galleries,” notes
them decide which studios they want to visit
the sky.” In addition, the artists at the ship-
The Point’s Hamel. “For prospective collec-
(contact MAC or visit its Web site for gallery
yard host a variety of activities and events
tors, it’s also a good time to get bargains.”
location and hours); it also supports a virtual
throughout the weekend, including presen-
Even for those who aren’t looking to make
gallery at its Web site that includes multiple
tations on art-making techniques, perfor-
purchases, open studios is a fun way to delve
images for many of the artists.
mances, and informal discussions.
into the Bay Area art scene and to discover
In San Francisco, the monthlong, citywide
Like the Marin event, East Bay Open
the array of creative expression in our midst—
Open Studios event organized by ArtSpan
Studios encompasses two weekends and
from paintings and drawings to jewelry and
is a fall tradition, but the Hunters Point
numerous locations. Organized by Pro Arts,
textiles to ceramics, sculptures, and furniture.
Shipyard—billed as the largest art colony in
a nonprofit membership organization that
“Whatever the human mind can conjure,
the United States—welcomes the public for
supports the East Bay arts community, East
we’ve got,” says Marin’s Morton. “And the se-
a weekend in the spring, as well. Home to
Bay Open Studios takes place from 11 a.m.
lection changes every year.”
250 artist studios, “The Point” is a former
to 6 p.m. the weekends of June 3 and June
U.S. Navy shipyard featuring seven buildings
10. As many as 500 artists participate at
Open studios events are free and open
of studios on more than 15 acres of water-
East Bay sites, including Alameda, Berkeley,
to the public, unless indicated otherwise, and
front property. Open to the public only twice
Emeryville, Fremont, Oakland, Pinole,
many feature complimentary refreshments.
a year—during Open Studios—The Point is a
Pleasant Hill, Richmond, San Leandro, and
For details and additional information, con-
unique setting for viewing art and taking in
beyond.
tact the organizers.
some seldom seen sights along the Bay.
The largest art event in the East Bay,
Marin Open Studios, 11–5, May 6–7 and
“Many people have never been out to
Open Studios attracts more than 50,000
May 13–14; Marin Arts Council, 555 Northgate
this part of San Francisco,” says Marc Ellen
visitors. As in Marin, participating artists
Drive, Suite 270, San Rafael, 415.499.8350,
Hamel, one of The Point’s resident artists
are identified in a directory and map pro-
marinarts.org.
and assistant coordinator for Hunters Point
duced by Pro Arts and distributed through-
Hunters Point Shipyard Spring Open
Spring Open Studio. “This is a great oppor-
out the area. Pro Arts also hosts a pre-
Studio and Sale, 10–6, May 6–7; Hunters
tunity to visit an undeveloped piece of land
view exhibition at its 2,500-square-foot
Point Shipyard, 701 Innes Street ,
and to see a wide array of art.”
gallery in Oakland’s Jack London Square
S a n F r a n c i s c o , 4 1 5 . 3 8 7. 5 9 3 6 , springopenstudio.com.
Approximately 160 artists participate in
that opens to the public May 13 and runs
The Point’s Spring Open Studio, which takes
through mid-June. In addition, it offers an
East Bay Open Studios, 11–6, June 3–4
place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 6 and 7.
Art Bus Preview Tour ($75) on June 2 that
and June 10–11; Pro Arts, 550 Second Street,
“People often feel like they haven’t allot-
features wine, hors d’oeuvres, and stops at
Jack London Square, Oakland, 510.763.4361,
ted enough time to see all the studios they
a selection of participating studios. (For de-
proartsgallery.org/ebos.
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MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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Paintings By Design Participate in Your Own Contemporary Art
We provide customized, hand made art work. Select the style, colors and size you need to bring life to spaces.
(415) 233-2054 studio pbydesign@sbcglobal.net email www.pbydesign.com
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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Stroud & Schelling
Fine Art Photography 415 388 8137 www.bellaimago.com
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“Nomadic Dreams”
Figurative Copper Art
www.DanaDraper.com
1704 Tiburon Blvd. Tiburon, CA 94920 415.435.2511
(415) 383-7213 ICB Studio 345, 480 Gate 5 Rd., Sausalito, CA. 94965
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CAL E NDA R
MAY 2006 MUSIC May 2 Marin Symphony Chorus Powerful vocal versions of compositions by Beethoven, Handel, and Vaughan Williams. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.479.8100, marinsymphony.org
May 4 Trisha Yearwood Get down to music by the Georgia-born, Grammy Award-winning country singer. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
May 6 Harmony Sweepstakes A vocal harmony competition featuring eight singing groups from all over the U.S. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
May 7
Ravi Shankar, renowned Indian musician, performs May 7th at Zellerbach Hall
THEATER Thru May 21 Fame Becomes Me A semi-autobiographical musical from actor Martin Short and the creators of Hairspray. Curran Theatre (SF). 415.512.7770, shnsf.com
Thru May 28 A Number Three grown sons confront their father after discovering they are replicates of each other—a.k.a. human clones. Performed by A.C.T. at Geary Theater (SF). 415.749.2228, act-sf.org
Alexander String Quartet Sit back and enjoy works by Mozart, Shostakovich, and Beethoven on violin, viola, and cello. Angelico Concert Hall at Dominican University of California (San Rafael). 415.257.0128, dominican.edu
May 12–June 18 The Price The story of two long-estranged brothers who reunite to dispose of their late father’s belongings. The Barn Theatre (Ross). 415.456.9555, rossvalleyplayers.org
May 21–June 18 Fiddler on the Roof Tevye the Jewish milkman copes with life in a Russian shtetl in this well-known musical. Cushing Memorial Amphitheatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.1100, mountainplay.org
May 7 Ravi Shankar The renowned pioneer of Indian music takes the stage with his daughter, Anoushka Shankar. Presented by Cal Performances at Zellerbach Hall (Berkeley). 510.642.9988, calperfs.berkeley.edu
May 10–13 Frankenstein!! Composer H.K. Gruber performs his cabaret-inspired work, followed by the music of Thomas Ades and harp set to Debussy’s Danses. SF Symphony (SF). 415.864.6000, sfsymphony.org
COMEDY May 11–June 11 Displaced A couple’s hot air balloon ride takes a turn for the surreal when a hurricane carries them from Miami to Havana. Marin Theatre Company (Mill Valley). 415.388.5208, marintheatre.org MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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May 11 Thursdays thru May Comedy Slam at Sam’s Debbie Campo of the San Francisco Comedy College hosts an evening of stand-up at Sam’s Cafe (Tiburon). 415.435.4527, sfcomedycollege.com
Left Coast Chamber Ensemble Two premieres in one night: Philippe Bodin’s new work and Paul Moravec’s Mood Swings. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.9600, 142throckmortontheatre.com M A R I N M AY 2 0 0 6
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DANCE
May 12–13 Puccini Night at the Opera Golden Gate Opera presents Suor Angelica and Gianni Schicchi, both one-act operas by Puccini. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
Thru May 7 San Francisco Ballet Sylvia, a ballet in three acts, choreographed by Mark Morris. War Memorial Opera House (SF). 415.865.2000, sfballet.org
May 16 Las Gallinas Valley Sanitary District NonMarching Band Show tunes, big band music, a bit of classical, and marches from the local “Sewer Band.” Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
GALLERIES MARIN
Art Works Downtown Drawing in Black & White An exhibition of works juried by Barbara Morris, thru June 16. 1337 Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.451.8119, artworksdowntown.org
Claudia Chapline Gallery Scenes New Plein Air paintings by Jon Francis, May 5–30. Lacquer works by Nagatoshi Onishi, on display May 13–17. 3445 Shoreline Hwy, Stinson Beach. 415.868.2308, cchapline.com
May 19 The Fromers Marin brothers Jon and David, along with David’s son Reed, perform soulful folk blended with the energy and power of R&B. Larkspur Café Theatre (Larkspur). 415.924.6107, larkspurcafetheatre.com
Contemporary Fine Arts (CFA) Ongoing exhibits. 20 Greenfield Ave, San Anselmo. 415.457.8847, cfagallery.com
Edith Caldwell Gallery May 20
Still-life paintings, contemporary tapestries, and objets d’art. 819 Bridgeway, Sausalito. 415.331.5003, edithcaldwell.com
Judy Collins The well-known folk singer and Grammy winner performs her greatest hits with singer-songwriter Kenny White opening for her at Marin Center. (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
Gallery Bergelli
May 25–27
Margaret Jenkins Dance Company at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts
Katia and Marielle Labéque Ravel, Mozart, Haydn, and more played by the piano duo and conducted by Michael Tilson Thomas. SF Symphony (SF). 415.864.6000, sfsymphony.org
May 6
May 26 Edo Castro Music from the master bassist’s and accomplished composer’s new album, Phoenix. Larkspur Café Theatre (Larkspur). 415.924.6107, larkspurcafetheatre.com
May 27 Marian Hubler A special evening with local songstress Hubler and a “circle of friends.” Part of the proceeds will benefit Bread & Roses and the Arete Scholarship Fund. Larkspur Café Theatre (Larkspur). 415.924.6107, larkspurcafetheatre.com
Gallery Route One La Fille Mal Gardée Set in a French village, this ballet features much humor. By Stapleton Ballet at Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
Works from an upcoming book by Andrew Romanoff, plus art by Laura Lynch and Mary Mountcastle, thru May 7. 11101 Hwy One, Point Reyes Station. 415.663.1347, galleryrouteone.org
May 6–7
Garzoli
Lotta’s Opera Embark on an incredible one-block journey—an outdoor, mobile dance performance down Market St (SF). 415.762.0721, epiphanydance.org
Works by Edwin Deakin, Grace Hudson, William Keith, and others. 930 B St, San Rafael. 415.459.4321, garzoligallery.com
Hanson Gallery May 13 Dance With Sherry—Night & Day Dance and music from favorite films, musicals, and more. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
May 27–June 25
May 17–27
Madama Butterfly Soprano Patricia Racette stars in this classic opera by Puccini along with mezzo-saprano Zhen Cao and tenor Franco Farina. War Memorial Opera House (SF). 415.864.3330, sfopera.com
Margaret Jenkins Dance Company The world premiere of A Slipping Glimpse, a choreography performed onstage and outdoors at the gardens. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts (SF). 415.978.2787, ybca.org
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Ongoing exhibits including Jeff Faust, and Allen Wynn. 483 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur. 415.945.9454, gallerybergelli.com
Ongoing exhibits. 669 Bridgeway, Sausalito. 415.332.1815, hansongallerysa.com
Katherine Warinner Monotypes and paintings on display; open studio May 13–14. 183 Alameda Ave, San Anselmo. 415.827.0472, katherinewarinner.com
Marin Society of Artists Still Waters A group show, May 21–June 18. Marin Art and Garden Center, Ross. 415.454.9561, marinsocietyofartists.org MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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MAY 4-29, 2006
T H E B A Y A R E A’ S T H I R D A N N U A L C E L E B R A T I O N O F T H E A R T S
W W W. A R T S F E S T S F. O R G
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O’Hanlon Center for the Arts
George Krevsky Gallery
Ongoing Exhibits. 616 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.388.4331, ohanloncenter.org
Paintings from the Studio Landscapes of the U.S. and Israel by Michael Kovner, May 4–June 17. 77 Geary Blvd, 415.397.9748, georgekrevskygallery.com
The Painters Place An exhibit of original paintings by Marin artist Christin Coy, thru June 17. 1139 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur. 415.461.0351
Robert Beck Gallery Ongoing exhibits. 222 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo. 415.456.7898
Hackett-Freedman Gallery The Pursuit of Form New figurative and landscape paintings by Bay Area artist Terry St. John, May 4–June 24. 250 Sutter St, 415.362.7152, hackettfreedman.com
MUSEUMS MARIN
Falkirk Cultural Center Annual Juried Exhibition of Marin Artists A showcase of contemporary works by local artists, thru May 27 (San Rafael). 415.485.3328, falkirkculturalcenter.org
Marin Museum of the American Indian Ca´ Pin Contemporary kachina dolls, headpieces, sculptures, a tool sculpture series, and more by Mooshka, thru August 19. Miwok Park (Novato). 415.897.4064, marinindian.com
Robert Green Fine Arts New paintings by Chris Gwaltney, thru May. 154 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.381.8776, rgfinearts.com
Spin Gallery
BAY AREA
Aquilones Works by Suzie Buchholz, thru May 18. 7 Mark Dr, San Rafael. 415.499.7640, spingallery.net
Asian Art Museum
Studio 333 Ongoing exhibits. 333A Caledonia St, Sausalito. 415.331.8272
William Lester Gallery Ongoing exhibits. 11101 Shoreline Hwy, Point Reyes Station. 415.663.9365, williamlestergallery.com
SAN FRANCISCO ArtHaus About Change New paintings by Jan Blythe and About Face A group exhibition of portraiture and figurative works; thru June 30. 411 Brannan St, 415.977.0223, arthaus-sf.com
The Way to the Ocean, by Michael Kovner at George Krevsky Gallery
COPIA Hang Art and Hang Art Annex Layered paintings by Catherine Ryan, May 3–30 at Hang Art. Alternate Realities A group show of paintings and mixed media works, May 3–30 at Hang Art Annex. 556 & 567 Sutter St, 415.434.4264, hangart.com
John Pence Gallery Recent oil paintings by Douglas Flynt and Edward Minoff, May 5–June 3. 750 Post St, 415.441.1138, johnpence.com
Caldwell Snyder Gallery Collective Works of the Roscubas Brothers Twelve wooden Totem sculptures on display, thru May. 341 Sutter St, 415.296.7896, caldwellsnyder.com
Meyerovich Gallery Modern European masters including Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Marc Chagall, and Joan Miro. 251 Post St, 415.421.7171, meyerovich.com
Fraenkel Gallery The photography of Idris Khan, May 4–July 1. 49 Geary Blvd, 415.981.2661, fraenkelgallery.com
Paul Thiebaud Recent paintings by Pam Sheehan, thru June 10. 718 Columbus Ave, 415.434.3055, paulthiebaudgallery.com
Gallery Paule Anglim Sculptures by Deborah Butterfield, on display May 3–June 3, as well as ongoing exhibitions. 14 Geary St, 415.433.2710, gallerypauleanglim.com 108
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The Three Gorges Project: Paintings by Liu Xiaodong Figurative works spotlight issues of environmental degradation in an industrializing China; thru July 16 (SF). 415.581.3500, asianart.org
Rena Bransten Gallery Photographs by Vik Muniz, on display thru May 27. 77 Geary Blvd, 415.982.3292, renabranstengallery.com
Dishing It Out: Career Waitresses Across the USA Through interviews and photographs, this exhibit explores the subculture of waitresses across the country; on display thru September 11 (Napa). 888.512.6742, copia.org
The Contemporary Jewish Museum The Art of Living: Contemporary Works from the Israel Museum Featuring dynamic photographs and videos produced by Israeli artists, thru July 30 (SF). 415.344.8800, thecjm.org
de Young International Arts and Crafts The first major exhibition to trace the arts and crafts movement from an international perspective, thru June 18 (SF). 415.863.3330, thinker.org/deyoung
Legion of Honor Judging By Appearance Master drawings— including works by Rembrandt, Pissarro, Degas, and Matisse—from the collection of Joseph and Deborah Goldyne, thru June 4 (SF). 415.863.3330, legionofhonor.org MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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Museum of Craft & Folk Art A Quilt for Granny: Four Generations of African-American Quiltmakers According to family lore, this Texas family has been making quilts for over two centuries. Approximately 15 of their masterpieces are on display May 4–July 23 (SF). 415.775.0991, mocfa.org
Don’t miss our season finale concerts:
Ravel & Beethoven
SFMOMA Surreal Calder Over forty works by Alexander Calder and other surrealists; thru May 21 (SF). 415.357.4000, sfmoma.org
FAMILIES/KIDS
April 2 & 4, 2006 7:30pm Alasdair Neale, conductor Melvin Chen, piano RAVEL, orch. NEALE RAVEL RACHMANINOFF
MARIN
May 2 Mexican Music & Dance Discover the traditions of Mexico at this children’s performance by Los Centzontles, (the Aztec word for mockingbird). Presented by Youth in Arts at Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.457.4878, youthinarts.org
Minuet from Piano Sonatine Piano Concerto in G Major Symphony No. 2
Concerts sponsored by Montecito Plaza Shopping Center and The Price Family Dealerships.
May 13 Family Birding Adventure Join Paul Belz for a fun day of learning about the migration and eating habits of birds. For children six and up (Point Reyes National Seashore). 415.663.1200, ptreyes.org
May 16
April 30 & May 2, 2006 7:30pm
Summertime Family Concert Series Swing Fever performs at the first in this series of free, outdoor shows on the third Tuesday of each month; through August. Marin Art and Garden Center (Ross). 415.455.5260, maagc.org
Alasdair Neale, conductor Marin Symphony Chorus
May 20 Pixie Park Spring Fair Bring the whole family down for a day of pony rides, puppet shows, balloons, and more at the Marin Art and Garden Center (Ross). pixiepark.org
HANDEL Zadok the Priest VAUGHAN WILLIAMS Serenade to Music BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 9
All concerts at Marin Center, San Rafael. Pre-concert conversations begin at 6:30pm. Tickets $24, $44 and $57, students half price.
415.499.6800 www.marinsymphony.org
BAY AREA May 10–21 Peter Pan Fly away to Never Never Land with Cathy Rigby, the Tony Award-nominee made famous for her role as the legendary boy who wouldn’t grow up. Orpheum Theatre (SF). 415.512.7770, shnsf.com MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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EVENTS Thursdays Thru May Marin Arts Salon Four evenings packed full of performances by emerging artists: Gayle Larkin, Rob Rinzler, and more. California Closets showroom (San Rafael). marinmagazine.com/events
Thru May 29 San Francisco Decorator Showcase Come see what 30 of the West Coast’s top designers can do with a Presidio Heights mansion. Proceeds of the showcase benefit University High School’s financial aid program. 3701 Washington St (SF). 415.447.5830, decoratorshowcase.org
May 13 Tiburon Wine Festival Sip on wines from over 50 wineries, and enjoy food, live music, and a silent auction. 415.435.5633, tiburonchamber.org
May 13 Human Race Walk, run, or volunteer in this annual fundraiser for Marin County nonprofits. Featuring live music and entertainment at the Marin Fairgrounds and Lagoon Park (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
maker Stephen Carrier. The Restaurant at Domaine Chandon (Yountville). 800.736.2892, chandon.com
May 28 Wine Festival Partake in this annual celebration of the fruit of the vine, featuring tastings from over 50 local restaurants and wineries. The festival will include a “Port and Chocolate” tasting, beer garden and “Champagne Deck,” and live entertainment. Falkirk Cultural Center (San Rafael). 415.453.9001, sanrafaelwinefestival.org
May 28 Asian Pacific Heritage Festival Bring the entire family to experience the Bay Area’s Asian Pacific Islander communities through art, food, performances. Bay Area Discovery Museum (Sausalito). 415.339.3900, baykidsmuseum.org
May 4 thru 29 ArtSFest A showcase of visual and performing arts—from the street to elite—at assorted Bay Area venues. Arts Expo, an outdoor celebration is presented on May 20–21 at Civic Center Plaza (SF). 415.561.7802, artsfest.org
LECTURES/WORKSHOPS May 5
May 5 Cinco de Mayo Celebration The Robledo family will team up with the Lodge at Sonoma’s Carneros Bistro & Wine Bar for an evening of festive family recipes paired with Robledo wines (Sonoma). 707.935.6600, thelodgeatsonoma.com
May 6–7 & 13–14 Marin Open Studios Get up close and personal with over 300 local artists, including photographers, jewelers, painters, and sculptors. Maps and brochures for the 12th annual event will be available throughout the county (Various cities in Marin). 415.499.8350, marinarts.org
May 12 Centennial Celebration and Gala Honor the 100th anniversary of Cal Performances with a cocktail reception and dinner. The long list of performers includes the Mark Morris Dance Group and Michael Tilson Thomas. Zellerbach Hall (Berkeley). 510.642.9988, calperfs.berkeley.edu
Family fun at the Pixie Park Spring Fair at the Marin Art and Garden Center
May 19 Runway 2006 Marin Advocates for Children presents their second annual fashion event, with community leaders modeling styles from Gene Hiller and others. Embassy Suites Hotel (San Rafael). 415.507.9016, marinadvocates.org
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May 9 Shirin Ebadi An evening with the Middle East reform activist, Nobel Laureate, and Iran’s first female judge in conversation with Kavita Ramdas, president of Global Fund for Women. Herbst Theatre (SF). 415.392.4400, cityboxoffice.com
May 20 H2O How-2 Water Wise Fair Learn how to set your irrigation controller, install a drip system, and other water-saving tips. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
May 31 Jyotisha and Ayurveda An introductory talk about the form of astrology that originated in ancient Indian Vedic traditions. Safronya Retreat (San Rafael). 415.259.0433, safronya.com
May 20–21 Artichoke Festival Celebrate the many uses of this versatile vegetable while enjoying music, arts and crafts, and more (Castroville). 831.633.2465, artichoke-festival.org
May 13 Community Health & Wellness Day Listen in on wellness talks, and partake in health screenings, food, fun for kids, and bodywork sessions (San Anselmo). 415.454.5840
Tiffany Shlain A glimpse into the unorthodox life of Shlain—screenwriter, director, and founder of the Webby Awards—in a talk moderated by her father. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.9600, 142throckmortontheatre.com
May 21 Meet the Tastemakers A rare tasting of Cabernet and Merlot vintages from the Newton Wine Library, hosted by guest wine-
NATURE WALKS/TALKS May 6 Point Reyes By Sea Observe Point Reyes from a different perspective—aboard the Delphinus, on an open ocean excursion (departs from the Berkeley Marina). 415.663.1200, ptreyes.org MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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RE TAIL TH E RAPY Ongoing
Thru May
May 6
Bar Method Initiation Special Come try the unique Bar Method of exercise for developing lean, strong muscles and increasing stamina. First month gives you unlimited classes for $100. (Greenbrae). 415.461.4461, barmethod.com
Sugar, Spring/Summer Sale Look through fun new arrivals (Ella Moss, Sanctuary, Free People, and more) and receive a five percent discount off your first purchase (Corte Madera). 415.924.7728
SF Botanical Garden, Spring Plant Sale Browse or buy from over 4,000 different kinds of plants suitable for Bay Area gardens. Botanical Garden at Strybing Arboretum (SF). 415.661.1316, sfbotanicalgarden.org
Thru May Thru May Evo Spa, Spring Line Arrival In addition to your deep massage or Surrender spa package, check out the new selection of Hobo & Sabrina Purses for sale (Mill Valley). 415.383.3223, evo-spa.com
Lulu Blue A post-flood cleanup has inspired a clearance sale to make room for new inventory, by discounting undamaged goods such as Paul Frank fashion accessories, all handbags including Tepper Jackson, and more (Mill Valley). 415.388-5907, lulu-blue.com
May 7
May 1
May 13–14
Sur La Table, Store Opening Check out over 5,000 square feet of cookware, table top products, and entertainment accessories at the retailer’s first North Bay location, Town Center (Corte Madera). 415.924.2961, surlatable.com
Mother’s Day Shopping In celebration of Mother’s Day, M Clothing will pour wine, serve appetizers, and stay open late (until 7 p.m.) on Saturday to help everyone find the perfect gift for mom (Healdsburg). 707.431.8738
Meadowlark Gallery, Trunk Show Check out the newly expanded store location, and browse handcrafted and painted furniture by Sticks, at the Meadowlark Gallery (Corte Madera). 415.924.2210, meadowlarkgalleries.com
Thru May Cake, Store Opening This new high-end clothing retailer opens at 10 Main Street in downtown Tiburon, and features a large selection of premium demin, spring fashions, designer handbags and sunglasses all at a “sweet” price (Tiburon). 415.435.2253
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4/4/06 12:39:13 PM
An Presentation
Come celebrate the eclectic and exciting art scene in Marin County every Thursday in May. The Marin Arts Salon will feature some of Marin’s most exciting artists and performers showcasing their work in their respective mediums.
Thursday May 4, 2006
Thursday May 18, 2006
Music - 6:30pm Larkin Gayl, Singer, Songwriter
Music - 6:30pm Michael LaMacchia Jazz Trio, Jazz
Music - 8:00pm Cole Tate, Band Leader, Rocker
Music - 8:00pm Ali Weiss, Singer, Songwriter
Visual Arts Katy Kuhns, Painter
Visual Arts Klaus Larsen, Photographer
Visual Arts Rob Rinzler, Painter
Visual Arts Kris Brewer, Painter
Literary James Dallesandro, Novelist
Literary Sara Tolchin, Poet
Designer Love, Melody Belts, Accessories, Sponsored by Blanc
Dance Estara, Sacred Dance
Designer Bethanie Brandon, Accessories, Sponsored by Meadowlark Gallery
Designer Nancy Ahern, Jewelry, by Fancy That
Designer Beth Rosener, Jewelry, Sponsored by Ko’ze
Designer Catherine Jane, Fashion Designer
Wines - Sponsored by Sterling Vineyards
Thursday May 11, 2006
Thursday May 25, 2006
Music - 6:30pm Mill Phil Sechs Bläser, Strings
Music - 6:30pm Mrs. Robinson, Rock
Music - 8:00pm Victoria George, Singer, Songwriter
Music - 8:00pm Jerry Hannan, Singer, Songwriter
Visual Arts Laury Oftrow, Mobiles, Sponsored by Fancy That
Visual Arts Cathy Locke, Painter
Literary Holly Payne, Novelist
Visual Arts Kathleen Lipinski & Steve Emery, Painters
Designer Love, Melody Belts, Accessories, Sponsored by Blanc
Literary Claire Blot, Performance Poet
Designer Carmen Hinkle, Jewelry, Sponsored by Meadowlark Gallery
Designer Julia Duren, Leather Goods
Wines - Sponsored by Sterling Vineyards *Schedule subject to change.
Cocktails & Hors d’Oeuvres • FREE Admission When Time Where
Thursdays, May (4, 11, 18, 25) 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. California Closets showroom, 610 DuBois St., San Rafael
For event details, please visit www.marinmagazine.com/events
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Brought to you by:
Musical curator:
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F LAVOR
ISN’T IT ROMANTIC? Marché aux Fleurs sets the stage for fine dining BY RACHEL AND DAVID MICHAEL CANE
FIRST IMPRESSION IS THE
A
chef Holly, both qualified sommeliers, match
TIDBIT
MOST powerful impression.
food and wine like musicians striking the right
For romantics such as us, the
Our eyes and nose feed imag-
chords. The couple’s vast knowledge of food
most intimate dining can be at
es and scents to our brain that
and wine enhances the dining experience to a
home. With a little planning and
suggest what we are about to
level found in too few restaurants. Dan’s stage
some well-placed props, like
experience will be positive or negative. When
is his kitchen where the back stage dances to
candles, the special tablecloth
we walked through the door of Marché aux
the front of the house and onto your plate. The
Fleurs, named after the French flower market,
changing menu is based on ingredients from
the warmth of the candlelit room and the ap-
the Farmer’s Market and small producers of or-
petizing aromas immediately embraced us in
ganic poultry and meats. The wine philosophy
a very positive way. Husband and wife team,
at Marché aux Fleurs is to support small family-
Dan and Holly Baker, make you feel special
owned wineries, believing that the smallest
from the moment you walk in the door until
producers can deliver the highest quality. As
the moment you leave the Ross Commons gem
for dessert, order the warm molten chocolate
smiling and satiated. Fresh, simply-prepared
truffle cake with homemade vanilla ice cream
food delivers a depth of flavor that is truly
or the butterscotch pot au crème—both are
inspired. The classic onion soup is a seduc-
sensational. Dining at Marché aux Fleurs is like
tive bowl of rich broth, brimming with aged
being wrapped in a warm blanket on a cold
Gruyère cheese; the stinging nettle fettuccine is
rainy day—nurturing and satisfying. As the
seafood to prepare yourself, or
handmade and silky, with an earthy Madeira-
weather warms up, the outdoor garden patio
let Bryan prepare it perfectly so
mushroom jus; and main courses change sea-
seating is a serene setting for dining al fresco.
you can reheat it at home. From
sonally with grilled and braised dishes. The
Marché aux Fleurs, 415.925.0200.
salads to grilled and roasted se-
usually reserved for company, a bottle of chilled champagne, and beautiful flowers, you can transform a meal into a special occasion. Bryan’s Fine Foods at the Town Center in Corte Madera also shares this philosophy. They offer everything you need to create a great dining experience at home. You can either
signature dish, Sonoma duck confit, is made
Rachel and David Michael Cane—winners of
lections, Bryan and his talented
in-house and remains on the menu year-
the coveted James Beard Foundation Award for
staff can create any size or type
round. For those who love tender meat falling
Excellence—host “A Matter of Taste,” Sundays from
of meal you want. Stop in or call
off the bone and cradled by crispy skin, this
11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Talk 910 KNEW–AM,
ahead at 415.927.4488.
presentation is ethereal. Chef Dan and pastry
San Francisco, amatteroftaste.com
114
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P HOTO: JOHN STOREY
choose from the fresh meats and
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/1/06 11:55:30 AM
DISH This month Marin Magazine welcomes a new column,“Dish,” by Bay Area food guru GraceAnn Walden. Politics can be hard on the palate. Next month, Rep. Lynn Woolsey will defend her Sixth District Congressional seat (Sonoma and Marin) against challenger, Assemblyman Joe Nation. We had to ask both candidates what local foods they’d miss in the nation’s capital. Woolsey says that when she is in D.C. she misses fresh, crisp vegetables, cheeses, breads, and milk—ours just tastes better. Nation says there isn’t a wide selection of great red wine, fresh salmon, and California fruits. “I walked two concourses at Dulles airport a few weeks ago and had to settle for a 60-day-old apple.”... All good things come to those who wait. Well, sometimes. It’s been a long seven years, but tenacious restaurateur-designer Pat Kuleto (Boulevard, Farallon, etc.) finally has all his permits, and construction is under way for his Nick’s Cove and Cottages project on Tomales Bay in Marshall. When he flings open the doors in late August/September, there will be
BY GRACEANN WALDEN 12 luxury cottages, four boat slips, and a 130seat restaurant…Tiburon residents can’t wait for the debut of Three Degrees, the 120-seat restaurant at the newly opened The Lodge at Tiburon. The chef is Patricia Windisch, who garnered high honors at the Rotunda at Neiman Marcus, San Francisco. Her menu will concentrate on local purveyors and farm fresh foods…San Francisco restaurateur, Tom Duffy, owner of the popular Myth restaurant (470 Pacific Ave.), has morphed the adjacent Zero Degrees into Myth Café (490 Pacific Ave.). Chef Ryan Scott is overseeing the lunch-only (Monday-Friday) menu. His BLT features cheddar and roasted tomato—yum…Four-star chef Charles Solomon (Heights, Geordy’s) has taken over the reins at Fork restaurant (198 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., San Anselmo) and is serving lunch and dinner Tuesday-Saturday. Look for a scallion pancake with American caviar and a shallot crème fraiche on Solomon’s tasting menu…Come September, chef-owner Chris Yeo will move his Singaporean-flavored Straits Café (3300 Geary Blvd.) to the new Westfield San Francisco Centre, which is anchored by
Bloomingdale’s. This space at 835 Market St. housed the Emporium department store for decades…The third time is the charm for restaurateur Shahram Bijan, who tried two other concepts at 24 Sunnyside Ave. in Mill Valley before launching Ora Restaurant & Bar a few months ago. The pan-Asian menu is packing them in for dinner Tuesday-Sunday and his partner-sommelier Cate Hughes will joyfully guide you through the premium sakes and tasty whites and reds… St. Helena locals were saddened by the recent closure of the Green Valley Restaurant. But the good news is that longtime Green Valley chef Israel Perez has opened his own Cal-Ital eatery, the Wine Valley Restaurant, at 1146 Main St. Don’t miss the cappelini Siciliana…Santa Rosa restaurateur-chef Will Azevedo decided a couple of months ago to reposition his Bistro Allure into Rubix (1226 Fourth St.) serving comfort food...Stay tuned. GraceAnn Walden lives in Greenbrae with Cosmo, the wonder dog, and leads culinar y tours in San Francisco. Tips? Email gaw@sbcglobal.net
1/2 HORIZONAL
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adl i b
Nancy Blanc Mayer Blanc, women’s apparel and accessories, San Anselmo
Andy Kristen and Andrew Grossman National City Mortgage, residential & commercial lending, Marin County
Fashion runs in Nancy Mayer’s bloodline; her
Joy Goldberg Item, women’s shoes and accessories, North Larkspur “Thanks to my dad, I grew up in the shoe busi-
father named her after Nancy’s, a series of Los
Andy Kristen and Andrew Grossman are known
ness,” says Joy Goldberg, owner of Item, a wom-
Angeles dress stores he owned. In turn, she
as “The A Team.” Backing them up is the $100 bil-
en’s shoe boutique in Larkspur. “Then, I even
named her store after her father, Ned Blanc.
lion-strong National City Mortgage, one of the ten
married into the business. After spending many
Nancy recently opened Blanc, featuring the latest
largest mortgage bankers in the U.S.
years myself in the shoe industry, I guess owning
European and domestic designs in clothing, accessories, and jewelry.
my own store was in the stars.”
What makes your work worthwhile? Andy: Giving people peace of mind when it comes
What is your competitive edge?
Briefly state your business philosophy.
to the most important purchase they make. Telling
Besides years of experience—and shoe shopping
I enjoy offering the latest and finest in fashion
someone they’ve received loan approval and their
wherever I go—I have friends in New York and
in a relaxed environment, namely, my store. My
family can buy the home they’ve wanted is always
L.A. who have stores and we talk about what’s
thrill comes in helping people select outfits that
a great feeling.
new, what’s working, and what we like. As a result, Item has shoes you can find in other fun
make them look great. I love working with women who trust me and are open to ideas that will
What is your competitive edge?
make them look their absolute best.
Andrew: National City is a direct lender; there’s
places throughout the country.
no middleman. We offer one of the most diverse
What inspires you?
Describe a recent incident involving your business that was especially enouraging.
product lines in the business under one roof. This
Women who create their own style . . . and don’t
enables our clients to choose the perfect financial
just chase labels.
While preparing to open—and filled with
fit. With local underwriting and approvals, our
doubts—two women walked in and asked what
clients receive the most efficient service.
type of store I planned to have. After explaining the concept, I asked where they were from.
Describe your dream customer. Imelda Marcos; just kidding. Also, any woman
Describe a recent incident involving your business that was especially encouraging.
who walks into Item, loves the store, and has fun
When one woman answered, “Los Angeles,” I asked if she’d ever heard of Nancy’s, my father’s
Andy: Over the holidays I was in Mexico when my
in her life by making her look, and feel, just a
store. It turned out she’d worked at Nancy’s for
realtor, Janice Guehring of Alva Falla & Associates/
bit better.
many years and thought the world of my father.
Frank Howard Allen, called. Storms had hit San
After we hugged and the goose bumps calmed
Anselmo and the building I’d just acquired was flood-
What makes your work worthwhile?
down, she looked me in the eye and said:
ed. I was unable to fly back, so on New Year’s Day
That, and working with store manager Cosima
“Honey, right now your father is looking down
Janice and her husband coordinated contractors who
Crane and between us, seeing women really hap-
on you and he’s saying, ‘Everything’s going to
removed water, silt, and drywall, then saved whatev-
py with a new pair of shoes or a great accessory.
be just fine.’”
er they could. Janice—thanks for everything.
That’s what makes having a store worthwhile.
Blanc, 514 San Anselmo Ave., San Anselmo, CA,
National City Mortgage, 804 San Anselmo Ave., San
Item, 1102 Magnolia Avenue, Larkspur, CA, 94939
94960, 415.485.0104, nancy@blancshopping.com
Anselmo, CA, 94960, 415.459.0112, andykristen@
415.925.0109, info@item-shoes.com
picking out shoes and accessories that put a lift
A-Team1.com, andrewgrossman@A-Team1.com
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M ICROCL I M ATE
MYSTERIOUS BOLINAS Are the signs still down in this historic town? BY JIM WOOD HAVE YOU HEARD THAT BOLINAS doesn’t welcome outsiders? That may be true, or it may not be. Discover the answer for yourself. You might be surprised. “We love to have people visit us,” says Claire Heart of the Bolinas Peoples Store, a natural foods store located behind the library and community center off Wharf Road. “It’s the tourists we don’t encourage; there’s not much for them to buy here.” Heart then offers a visitor a sensuous cup of “Sunshine on the Taj Mahal” soup made with butternut squash, curry, garlic, and ginger. She says the store sells 24 to 36 quarts a day of delicious, healthy soups with colorful names like “Mother Teresa’s Lunch,” “Almost Magic Mushroom,” and “Viva la Vegetables.”
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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Farther out Wharf Road toward the Bolinas Lagoon, David Liebenstein, owner of Coast Café, is equally inviting. “Where else in the
ing Coastal Post and owner of Smiley’s Schooner Saloon and Hotel, the oldest continuously operated tavern in Marin County (since 1851).
world,” he says, “but Bolinas will you find salmon, crab, lamb, beef, veg-
Finding Bolinas is one thing, moving there is another. Home con-
etables, and dairy products—you name it—arriving fresh daily, just after
struction is controlled by the number of water meters available and
it’s been picked, caught, butchered, or drawn?” At noon on a sometimes-
“there’s been a moratorium on meters since ’72,” says Deane. He adds
sunny-sometimes-not Sunday, the Coast Café offers a human testimonial
that he thinks “a house was built last year.” How is that possible, consid-
to the truth of Liebenstein’s words—the place is packed. Even though
ering the 34-year moratorium? Deane turns terse—and poetic: “Houses
most of the diners appear a bit offbeat, they can’t all be locals. “No way,”
burn down; meters turn up.” Even pinning down the town’s population
says Liebenstein. “In the entire Bay Area there are only two places that
isn’t easy. The Census Bureau puts it at 1,246, but Deane says the num-
have fresh-caught crab brought in on their own boats: Scoma’s is one,
ber varies by season. “In the dead of winter, I’d say it’s between 1,600
we’re the other, and lots of people know it.”
and 1,800; in summer, between 2,000 and 2,200 people live here.”
Another popular Bolinas dining destination is the Blue Heron Inn
Bolinas dates back to the 1840s, when it was a wharf town whose ships
and Restaurant on Wharf Road. “Everything is top notch,” says Gwen
carried supplies to San Francisco. Befitting its age, the town has its land-
Spangler who, with her husband Bud, has had a hand in running the
marks and traditions. Every Fourth of July for more than 100 years, for
charming establishment for over 30 years. “Besides locals, our diners
example, a wild and wooly parade has wound its way down Wharf Road,
come mostly from Stinson Beach and the city,” Spangler adds. “A typical
passing in front of cheering locals and gaping visitors. In recent decades,
entree, with salad and a nice bottle of wine, runs between $60 and $75.”
the parade has been preceded by a competitive tug-of-war with neighbor-
Dinners are served Thursday through Sunday, with the Blue Heron’s two
ing Stinson Beach, an event usually won by the “burly boys” of Bolinas.
private upstairs rooms ($125 per night) available throughout the week.
“And on every Thanksgiving Day that I remember,” says Deane, “a com-
Bolinas’ reputation as a town without a welcome mat dates from its
munity-wide potluck dinner has been served at the community center.”
longtime battle of wills with Caltrans. For years, every time the highway
Landmarks on the outskirts of Bolinas include Commonweal, a health and
department posted a sign on Highway 1 pointing the way to Bolinas, some
environmental research institute headed by Michael Lerner; Star Route
obstreperous local would tear it down and haul it home for use as a coffee
Farms, the renowned organic farm visited last year by Prince Charles and
table, roof patch, or garage trophy. “Now, I think Caltrans has given up,”
owned by Warren Weber; a U.S. Coast Guard Radio Transmission Base;
says Donald Deane, the low-key, always friendly publisher of the left-lean-
and the Point Reyes Bird Observatory.
Photo previous page: Wharf Road in downtown Bolinas. This page clockwise from upper left: Louise Pepper greets visitors, Grand Hotel displays artifacts inside and out, Sean Thackrey stands in front of two pieces from his personal collection at the Bolinas Museum exhibit, scenic Bolinas Lagoon, Coast Cafe owner David Liebenstein, The Blue Heron Inn and Restaurant.
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“
We love people to visit us. It’s the tourists we don’t encourage; there’s not much for them to buy here.
”
— CLAIR HEART, BOLINAS PEOPLES STORE
In Bolinas proper, every commercial structure offers a surprise of some sort. A cold beer at the well-worn bar at Smiley’s Saloon is a
“And where but here can a person rent a board, slip on a wet suit, then step out our back door and be in the surf?”
customary first stop, but for a fortifying cup of soup, the aforemen-
Before anyone thinks Bolinas is all about saloons, soup, surfboards,
tioned Bolinas Peoples Store is a must. Just around the corner on
and second-hand stuff, it’s best to talk with 81-year-old Louise Pepper.
Brighton Avenue, hidden behind trees and bushes, the Grand Hotel
She’s lived in Bolinas since 1956 and has been selling local real estate
is not to be missed. “I have two rooms for rent upstairs,” says a smil-
for 45 years. “There’s only one way out of town,” she declares. “So life
ing Vic Amoroso, pointing up at the ceiling. Amoroso’s downstairs
here is very secure and protected; there’s absolutely no crime.” Pepper’s
rooms are filled with pre-owned jewelry, art, books, toys, trinkets,
handsome turn-of-the-last-century house sits at one end of Wharf Road,
and clothes. The piece de resistance is an 1800s French army offi-
and at the other is the tidy, respected Bolinas Museum. The private-
cer’s full-length dress coat with ornamental epaulets, piping on the
ly funded museum recently hosted an exhibition of Bolinas winemak-
sleeves, and hand-sewn lining. “I’m not sure I want to sell that,” says
er Sean Thackrey’s collection of sculptures, wall art, and early stone
Amoroso with a grin.
lithographs—with some pieces dating back 6,000 years. “The Bolinas
Another worthwhile stop—assuming the sun’s out and the surf’s
Museum is the jewel of West Marin,” says its director, Dolores Richards,
up—is 2 Mile Surf Shop, which is partly hidden between a bookstore
“one that the community supports and is proud of. People visit it be-
and the post office. “I mostly cater to beginners and long-boarders,” says
cause of its reputation for excellence, not because they’re in town and
co-owner Nick Krieger, a 28-year-old surfer who grew up in Bolinas.
there’s nothing else to do. It’s not a tourist attraction.”
1/2 HORIZONAL
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128
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4/1/06 12:57:22 PM
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MESSAGE FROM THE CEO McGuire Real Estate started back in 1919, when my grandfather Wal ter E . M c Guir e founded the company with a commitment to excellence. I took over the helm in 1980, and I’m proud to say that the same ideals remain today: integrity, knowledge, and exceptional service. McGuire is committed to making the process of buying or selling your home a rewarding experience. Over the years, many of our competitors
McGuire Real Estate
have succumbed to or merged with the major conglomerates. But bigger isn’t necessarily better. At McGuire, we recognize the value of
Spotlight on Mill Valley
maintaining a regional, locally-owned, and managed brokerage, providing our clients with distinctive, personalized, and regionallyinformed service. As the real estate industry evolves, McGuire remains responsive and willing to meet every new and necessary change. But with these advances, consumers are inundated with so much data that the human element is more important than ever. That’s why our website features licensed analysts, available to chat live with you to answer any questions. We can get all of the data we want, but it’s the interpreting of that data that matters most. It’s the counseling. It’s the intuition. We pride ourselves on being here, being accessible, and being good counselors to our clients. I welcome you to get to know us. I think you’ll find that we offer a truly unique experience in such a crowded marketplace. Although our industry has always been about self-promotion, when a consumer comes to our firm, we deliver on our promises. The difference between being great and being adequate is walking the walk. I speak for all of McGuire Real Estate when I say, we walk the walk. We look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely,
Charles Moore CEO, McGuire Real Estate
U
nlike many, Bill McKeon doesn’t dread Monday mornings. “I actually look forward to working, because of the people there,” says the manager of McGuire’s Mill Valley branch. It’s easy to believe, considering the affable demeanor they’re known for. “Accessibility is very, very easy,” says McKeon. “All agents are welcome to call anyone [in the company] including Charlie.” That’s Charles Moore, to be exact, CEO of McGuire. Since opening in 1997 with only 4 agents, the branch has expanded to include 28, but don’t expect to see the usual cutthroat real estate competitiveness. “You won’t find that at all in our office,” McKeon insists. “If a newer agent asks questions, everyone helps out; it’s really a team effort.” With this familial air, and their profit-sharing Partners Plan, it’s no wonder the employees also socialize outside cubicle walls. “In the office environment, we are always talking about work and that’s only one aspect of a person,” McKeon says. One trait all agents share is an unrivaled expertise of Marin. “It’s critically important,” says McKeon, who lived in Mill Valley himself for 25 years before moving to Greenbrae. Being residents gives agents a valuable insight that many competitors lack. “We have agents who live in Tiburon, in Ross; we have
agents who live in almost all parts of Marin,” McKeon says proudly. Another source of pride is the classic McGuire service. “Our vision is to provide a Ritz-Carlton experience for our clients,” says McKeon. Though known for many high-end property deals, their hard work isn’t proportional to price. “Whether we list a $500,000 condo or a $23 million home, we apply the marketing and support that we do on all of our properties,” says McKeon. Again, cooperation is paramount. “It is a team effort between the agent, my office, and his client to be successful,” says McKeon. With such a warm business style, it’s fitting that their office alongside the 101 is an inviting cottage, reminiscent of an old schoolhouse. In a true spirit of community, the building is decorated for every holiday, most impressively for Christmas. “We actually have someone dressed up as Santa Claus over the entrance that waves to the commuters,” McKeon says. Such festivity makes perfect sense to McKeon. “I interview a lot of new agents when they want to get into real estate, and many say, ‘I’ve always been into homes’, or ‘I’ve been an architect,’” he says. “It has nothing to do those things—it’s really more of a ‘people’ business.”
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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Meet the people who make McGuire a success
Tim Hill
Dean Holter
Mill Valley Office
Mill Valley Office
(415) 389-5607 thill@mcguire.com im Hill has been a Top Producer for McGuire Real
(415) 389-5651 dholter@mcguire.com s a third-generation Marin native, Dean attended Ross
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2000). Twenty-six years in Marin County have given Tim an
from the USF School of Law, he realized being a Realtor
extensive knowledge of schools, neighborhoods, clubs, and
allowed for more time with his wife and three children, and
organizations. Having raised his two children in Marin, he
a more community-oriented lifestyle. Therefore, he sits on
has an intimate understanding of the infrastructure, climates,
the Ross Recreation Board of Directors, and is part of the
school districts, and social dynamics of the area. With this
campaign committee for a Ross School bond measure.
experience, Tim can help sell your house for top dollar, or
Dean’s clients benefit from a lifetime of local knowledge and
find you a new home in this land of exceptional lifestyle.
personal contacts.
Estate three times in the last six years (2005, 2003, and
Grammar and Redwood High Schools. After graduating
Sharon McKeon
Liz Williamson
Mill Valley Office
Mill Valley Office
(415) 389-5613 smckeon@mcguire.com
(415) 389-5620 lwilliamson@mcguire.com
native San Franciscan who’s been a Southern Marin
he key to a successful transaction is keeping clients
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at McGuire Real Estate. Nine years onward, her results are
is what keeps me in business ! At each stage of a
consistently in the top 3%. Sharon enjoys each minute: “I
transaction, my clients can rely on me to guide, direct,
love providing the ultimate in customer service and client
and counsel them through the emotional rollercoaster of
satisfaction. It’s a perfect fit for me: working with a premiere
buying or selling a home.
resident for 35 years, Sharon found a perfect match
Company, and giving outstanding service to exceptional clients. It’s pure joy and a real privilege to live and work in
well informed. My commitment to good communication
My goal is to make your transaction as stress-free as possible. I always put my clients’ needs first!
beautiful Marin!”
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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Real Estate
Knowledge
You Can Trust. Jimmy Knows Marin
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The Enclave of Tranquility
105 Windwalker Way
As it’s name implies, Tranquility is a peaceful enclave of 21 luxury homes on 18 acres in a setting of enduring natural beauty. Tranquility features rolling hills, towering oaks, permanent open space, pristine marshlands and sweeping views of the countryside. 105 Windwalker Way is located on a spectacular half acre level lot with southwest orientation just a short distance from the trails and scenery of Deer Island.
Jimmy Wanninger 415.990.8990 24/7
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Sleepy Hollow Serenity
2 Legend, San Anselmo San Anselmo’s Sleepy Hollow is a serene setting for one of Marin’s most unique properties. 2 Legend is located on a spectacular corner lot with gorgeous landscaping and grounds. This gated estate includes a lavish pool, flowing pond, and numerous flowering trees and roses. The interior features five bedrooms, four bathrooms all on one level. Four fireplaces, vaulted ceilings and hardwood floors throughout make this the ideal property for all ages.
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Interior Highlights: • Grand living room with 10’ vaulted ceilings, fireplace and skylights • Master suite with fireplace, patio deck and walk-in closet • Four additional bedrooms, one with an en-suite bath • Great room kitchen with fireplace, sliding door to rear pool and decks, and stainless appliances • Formal dining room with fireplace and sliding door to southern deck and gardens
Exterior Highlights: • Large .37 acre level lot with fenced and gated yard • Private pool and patio area surrounded by lush mature trees and grounds • Oversized two-car garage with covered walkway to home
Offered at $1,935,000 Additional photos available at www.JimmyMarin.com
Jimmy Wanninger 415.990.8990 24/7
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Gorgeous Turn of the Century Spanish Revival Ideally located in downtown Mill Valley, this exceptionally private, elegant and inviting residence boasts gracious living spaces. Amenities include a formal living room with fireplace, a formal dining room perfect for special occasions, a cozy den, a majestic curved stairwell, generous bedrooms and baths, a separate guest house, and remarkable views of the park like setting from every room. Over 1/2 acre of superbly landscaped grounds, expansive lawns and gorgeous gardens. Residents and guests will indulge in the beautiful sparkling pool. Prestigious in every way, this stately home is in one of Marin’s most prized micro climates and offers close proximity to Mill Valley’s excellent schools and the quaint downtown area with trendy boutiques, fine dining, coffee houses, and friendly faces. Truly a rare offering. Price upon request. Inquiries to Robert Young, 415.407.7775 or Matthew Pouliot, 415.265.7020.
Specializing in Selling Your Home PacUnion_Y&P_0506_FNL.indd 4
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MARIN’S
PREMIER REAL ESTATE
TEAM Robert D. Young 415.407.7775 RobertYoungRealEstate.com
Matthew Pouliot 415.265.7020 PouliotProperties.com
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The Jewel of Salmon Creek - Dignified and elegant, magical and serene!
the moment you step into this home with its unique old world charm you are transported to a cozy place; full of the enjoyment F rom of life. One of the most recognized properties on the Sonoma Coast, this home was built around 1868 by Hugh Marshall and was used as the “coastal station” stop on the original stage coach road. It initially housed the post office and a hotel and has been carefully refurbished during the past one and a half years. The lovely atrium provides a place to enjoy beautiful sunny days with views of Salmon Creek and the beach. You have unobstructed views from the 30’ elevation above Salmon Creek. This remarkable four bedroom, two and a half bath 2104 ± sq. ft. home is located on a 36,000 ± sq. ft. (.82 acre) lot. It is exclusively offered, fully furnished with antiques at $2,300,000.
Prime Location for Marvelous Ocean Views
have updated and modernized this wonderfully located two story home on the 10th fairway of Bodega Harbour Golf Links. O wners Approximately 2072 sq. ft. ±, three bedroom, three bath home with unobstructed ocean views, fireplace and view deck. Granite kitchen counters, stainless steel appliances, wine cooler. This offer includes furniture and is proudly offered at $1,099,000.
Exclusive Homes, Land and Vacation Rentals on the Sonoma Coast FRANK HOWARD ALLEN REALTORS Sonoma Coast Living™ Independently Owned & Operated
575 Highway One, Bodega Bay, CA 94923 Toll Free: 888-875-3240 Local: 707-875-2500
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THERA BUTTARO Broker/Owner
4/1/06 1:13:40 PM
34 Acorn Way, Kentfield Gated and at the end of a long, private drive, this country-type property is conducive to a casual lifestyle and enjoying the outof-doors. With plenty of flat, lush, green lawn, delightful children’s play area, large-scale entertainment deck, inviting patio and grand, stately oaks, this property is stunning. This lovingly remodeled home has character, charm and style, and features: four bedrooms, three and one half baths, fabulous cook’s kitchen with center island and adjoining family room with freestanding fireplace, wonderful living room with fireplace, French doors leading to the outside from the main living areas, special computer area, romantic master suite, and attached 2-car garage.
Offered at $3,850,000
For more information and photographs, please visit: www.MarilynRich.com.
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Marilyn Rich
Germana Fabbri
Pacific Union 415.464.3741
Coldwell Banker 415.464.3550
4/1/06 1:14:23 PM
D I A LO GUE
J
onny Moseley invented both the 360° mute-grab and the Dinner Roll. The first one, a freestyle skiing move, won him the first American gold medal of the 1998 Olympic games in Nagano, Japan, when he was a mere 22 years old. The second, an inverted skiing trick, helped expand
the world of competitive skiing and earned him a permanent place in the annals of sporting history. These days the Tiburon native, who also surfs, sails, hikes, and mountain bikes (or did before his bike was stolen), can be seen in the extreme sports limelight and wandering the halls of UC Berkeley as an anonymous undergrad pursuing a degree in American Studies. He is 30 now and 2006 is proving to be yet another big year. This winter he went to the Olympics in Torino to make videos for his sponsor, Sprint. In March he married his girlfriend Malia Rich in Telluride, Colorado. He hosts a weekly radio show for Sirius and continues to travel around the country for speaking engagements. This December he plans to graduate from Cal, where, four years ago, he delivered the commencement address. Marin caught up with him on a rainy day at his house on the water in Tiburon, a block away from his childhood home where his parents still live. He had just returned from the Sundance Film Festival in Utah and was having a much-deserved lazy Sunday. 138
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BY SAMANTHA SCHOECH
You could live anywhere. Why Marin? In the end, because my family is here. I’ve lived in a lot of ski towns. When I was younger I wanted to get out of Marin, but then I realized this place has everything. The usual suspects: water, mountains, the bay. Plus, I like a bit of metropolitan life. What makes you happy in Marin? My family and a good solid group of friends. I also like the general consistency of the air, the smell. I feel healthy here. What gets on your nerves here? Lack of public transportation. I just wish there were more options for getting from place to place without having to drive. What’s your personal idea of luxury? The equivalent of ski in/ski out access to some of my favorite things. Like a perfect surf break outside my door or easy access to a great café. What do you value every day? More and more, I value being healthy. Not only not injured, but generally healthy. What person has influenced you the most? My family. Probably my brother Rick. I spent the most time with him growing up. What’s been the most fulfilling moment in your work? Winning the gold. It was euphoric. Ultimately it was a relief from wondering if I could do it. It was justification for a lot of time spent. It’s still unbelievable. What’s a Marin stereotype that fits? My fiancée, Malia, made up the word “Maringlish”—there’s a way people who grew up here talk, sort of sarcastic. And there are a lot of Marin cars—lots of BMWs. What stereotype doesn’t fit? The groovy music scene. I don’t really find that anymore, unfortunately. Maybe I’m just not in that world. What makes your skin crawl? Snakes. People who are rude. What’s your desert island book or album? That old Big Head Todd and the Monsters album—I forget the name of it. [Ed. note: We think it might be Sister Sweetly.] What’s your favorite place to unwind? At my house or on my sailboat on the bay. Do you have a favorite Marin view? I love the sweeping view of Marin from the Berkeley campus. What’s your favorite journey? Down to the end of my dock and back. What do you like about yourself? Depends on the day. I really don’t know how to answer that. How do you want to be remembered? I guess as a somewhat genuine person. Someone not afraid to try new things.
PHOTO: BA RBA RA RIES
Jonny Moseley
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
4/3/06 4:11:00 PM
Representing and marketing the most distinctive real estate in Marin.
If you are considering buying or selling a home, please call for a private consultation.
Anna K. Pennington-Boucher Luxury Home Specialist anna@worldclassproperties.com 415.860.1399 www.worldclassproperties.com
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