Issuu

MARI N E X T R A O R D I N A R Y

OCTOBER 2008

L I V I N G

Global focus

SAN FRANCISCO

MARIN

PENINSULA

— local passion.

ome things are timeless and priceless. Genuine care. Authentic

relationships. Professionalism. Knowledge. These are all qualities of experience we’re passionate about. They’re at the heart of who we are. Some things are always changing. People’s lives. Markets. The world. It’s more essential than ever to keep pace with the latest tools and partner with leaders. At McGuire, we take full advantage of cutting edge technology and the Internet to maximize efﬁciency and empower our people to perform at their very best. Our afﬁliation with the most powerful global real estate network successfully connects our clients and agents to a worldwide marketplace. Discover how we leverage our passion for personalized care and global network power to your advantage. Call: 1.800.4-RESULTS. Visit: mcguire.com/marin

McGuire is an afﬁliate of the leading global real estate and luxury property network in the world. © 2008 McGuire Real Estate. All rights reserved. ‘Home for your life.’ is a Service Mark of McGuire Real Estate.

mcguire.com/marin

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CONTENTS

Features 72

life Organic Roots

The forward-thinking farmers of Marin. story & photos tim porter

auto If Cars Could Talk Vintage vehicles with stories to tell. story jim wood photos tim porter

home Family Fusion East meets West in Tiburon and Hawaii homes. story p. j. bremier photos barbara ries

journey Two to Tango Buenos Aires lures the traveler with promises of dance. story julie keller photos klint callaghan

Marin (Volume 4, Issue 10) is published monthly by Marin Magazine, LLC, at One Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965. Application to Mail at Periodicals Postage Rates is Pending at Sausalito, CA and at additional mailing ofﬁces. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Marin, One Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965.

MARIN

OCTOBER 2008

CONTENTS

Departments

letters

at a glance

album

currents

snap

fashion trends

life style

fyi

Readers respond to Marin Magazine.

Hot tips day by day for the Bay Area.

Pumpkin pitch. by tim porter

Bay Area news, books, openings, people and events.

Out and about, in and around Marin.

A little bit country, a little bit rock and roll. by somer ﬂaherty

Tiburon’s Robert Placak shares his thoughts on personal style. by mimi towle

People: Mill Valley’s Austin de Lone. by jonathan korty Causes: Nancy’s List. by somer ﬂaherty Home Decor: Sensational sofas. by somer ﬂaherty Film: Of ticks and misery. by jane ganahl Green: Teens with a purpose. by mimi towle

MARIN

OCTOBER 2008

CONTENTS

178

Departments 68

conversation Ross’s Bill Patterson. by jim wood

104 go

Wine country outdoor adventures. by mimi towle

110 play

Kayaking in Marin. by somer ﬂaherty

118 performing arts

Marin Symphony opens the season with tango. by dan jewett

120 calendar

A roundup of performing arts, events, galleries and more.

132 flavor

Recipes from Marin Magazine’s Organic Marin in local restaurants. Dine Out, an insider’s guide to Bay Area eateries.

149 microclimate

One of Marin’s tiniest communities—Corinthian Island. by jim wood

178

dialogue Marin funnyman Mark Pitta. by mimi towle

Columns The Cover Warm Afternoon Light by Marin artist

view from mount tam

pov

The creators of Marin Magazine welcome you to share their vision.

Carole Bigot. For information visit carolebigot.com, or to purchase go to marinmagazine.com/coverart 14

MARIN

OCTOBER 2008

Marin and the 101 Freeway. 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 SENIOR EDITOR

Mimi Towle

ext 101 | mtowle@marinmagazine.com EDITOR-AT-LARGE

Tim Porter

tporter@marinmagazine.com DEPARTMENTS EDITOR

Somer Flaherty

ext 103 | sflaherty@marinmagazine.com WEB EDITOR

Daniel Jewett

ext 116 | djewett@marinmagazine.com COPY EDITOR/PROOFREADER

Cynthia Rubin

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

P. J. Bremier, Samantha Bronson, Jane Ganahl, Julie Keller, Jonathan Korty

ART ART DIRECTOR

Anne Walzer

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Alex French

ext 111 | production@marinmagazine.com PRODUCTION ARTIST

Stephen Spoja

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Drew Altizer, Klint Callaghan, Sheri Montgomery, Barbara Ries

A D M I N I S T R AT I O N CONTROLLER

Maeve Walsh

ext 104 | mwalsh@marinmagazine.com OFFICE MANAGER

Linda Reid

ext 100 | lreid@marinmagazine.com

MARIN MAGAZINE ONE HARBOR DR, STE 208, SAUSALITO, CA 94965 PH 415.332.4800 FAX 415.332.3048 MARINMAGAZINE.COM EDITORIAL@MARINMAGAZINE.COM

MARIN

OCTOBER 2008

ADVERTISING PUBLISHER

Lisa Shanower

ext 107 | lshanower@marinmagazine.com

Courtney Q. Roberts

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

ext 108 | croberts@marinmagazine.com ACCOUNT MANAGER

Michele Johnson

ext 110 | mjohnson@marinmagazine.com ACCOUNT MANAGER

Leah Bronson

ext 109 | lbronson@marinmagazine.com ACCOUNT MANAGER

Rebecca A. Novack

ext 113 | rnovack@marinmagazine.com ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR

Alex French

ext 111 | production@marinmagazine.com

REGIONAL SALES OFFICES SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

dorie leo and associates | Dorie Leo 310.822.4938 NEW YORK

couture marketing | Karen Couture 917.821.4429 SOUTHEAST

tlc media | Cindy Taylor 404.459.6578 HAWAII

destination marketing | Debbie Joseph, Shana Wong 808.739.2200

MARIN CUSTOM MEDIA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Michael Earls

ext 120 | mearls@marincustommedia.com

marin magazine is printed on 10% post-consumer waste paper

MARIN

OCTOBER 2008

member of the bpa worldwide:

fsc-certified products originate from well-managed forests.

V I E W F R O M M O U N T TA M

MARIN

OCTOBER MARKS THE BEGINNING of the traditional har-

Performing Arts, Dan Jewett covers the Marin Symphony’s

vest season and editor-at-large Tim Porter celebrates its

new season, which opens with tango.

arrival by profiling eight of Marin County’s organic farm-

Across the bridge, the new California Academy of Sciences

ers and ranchers. The profiles are excerpted from Organic

is opening in Golden Gate Park and Conversation receives a

Marin: Recipes from Land to Table, the new cookbook pro-

backstage tour when we chat with Bill Patterson, the Ross

duced by Marin Magazine.

resident who chairs the academy’s Board of Trustees.

In Home, P. J. Bremier takes us inside the East-meets-

Also in this issue, Marin musician Jonathan Korty tells

West lives of Lionel and Stacy Achuck, whose lovely homes

us about music maker Austin de Lone’s fundraising efforts

in Tiburon and Hawaii blend their Asian family heritage

in FYI People; Somer Flaherty dons a spray skirt to report

with their thoroughly California and sustainable lifestyle,

on Marin kayaking in Play; Jane Ganahl introduces us to

including artificial turf! In Auto, we meet Tom Price, one

Sausalito documentary filmmaker Andy Wilson in FYI Film;

of Marin’s most prominent auto dealers and a renowned

Dialogue tosses some straight lines at funnyman Mark Pitta;

collector of high-end vintage cars. From a twin of the

and Microclimate wanders about Corinthian Island.

1960 Ferrari Matthew Broderick drove in Ferris Bueller’s

As always, our wish is for your good reading. Enjoy

Day Off to a 1948 Jaguar convertible just like Clark Gable

Marin Magazine, as we continue to celebrate this

owned, Price’s cars all have a story to tell.

extraordinary place!

This month we found it takes two stories to cover tan-

Lisa Shanower, Publisher

go. In Journey, Julie Keller packs her dancing shoes for a

Nikki Wood, Editorial Director

trip to Buenos Aires and an Argentine tango adventure; in

Jim Wood, Executive Editor

OCTOBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

My family has been in the investment business for the better part of the last century. My grandfather, Henri de la Chapelle, was an early partner at Paine, Webber, Jackson & Curtis. My grandfather, Rudolph Eichler, founded Bateman Eichler & Co. in 1929. My father, Peter Eichler Sr., became chief executive of Bateman Eichler in the 1970s. I worked on the floor of the NYSE, developed investment products for E.F. Hutton and launched a money management division for Bear Stearns. To say that I have worked in this business my entire life is not an overstatement. My forbears taught me that to be a successful investor one must be an independent thinker. At Aletheia, we have always done our own research. Another important family trait I have incorporated is common sense in terms of valuation, risk and return expectations. I also believe common sense guides the amount of effort needed to achieve superior results. It takes an incredible amount of time and effort to add value in today’s challenging financial markets. At Aletheia we have combined a rich heritage, creative thinking and a tireless work ethic. We look forward to hearing from you. Peter J. Eichler, Jr. Founder, Chairman, CEO

No taglines. No gimmicks. Just one thing: Performance. ALETHEIA: Performance, Excess Return and Alpha Rankings (Since Inception – period ended 3/31/08) Large Cap Growth Composite

Income Composite

Balanced Composite

Aletheia 100 Core Composite

(NS

( NS

0 10

Large Cap International Value Composite Growth Composite

(NS

20 30 40

(NS

50 60 70

A l e t h e i a

80 90 100

Resea rc h a nd M a na gement

Gross Performance 394.78% Performance ( Excess Return N Alpha S Inception Date

205.83%

295.22%

215.59%

199.14%

161.85%

1 1 1

1 2 2

1 1 1

18 18

1/1998

4/1999

9/1999

4/2000

7/2002

2008 YTD

Aletheia Growth Aletheia Value Aletheia Int’l Growth

-2.69% -3.22% -2.80%

2007 16.96% 3.33% 28.66%

2006 20.11% 23.19% 24.60%

2005 30.39% 19.38% 17.72%

2004 17.18% 15.07% 7.73%

2003 62.16% 30.52% 46.83%

Since 12/31/97 358.68% 180.08%* 162.51%**

S&P 500‡

(-11.91%)

5.49%

15.79%

4.91%

10.88%

28.69%

56.40%

Aletheia Research and Management 100 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 1960, Santa Monica, CA 90401 (310) 899-0800 aletheiaresearch.com Past performance is not indicative of future performance.*Value performance since 3/31/00. The S&P 500 performed -1.76% over the same period. **International Growth performance since 6/30/02. The S&P 500 performed 44.49% over the same period. ‡ S&P 500 performance includes reinvested dividends. 2008 returns net of fees estimated through 6/30/08. Performance results are net of management fees.

™

LE TTE RS

Readers respond TM

Discover Great Deals. Support a Great Cause. Book a trip to O‘ahu and experience the perfect getaway. This Fall, select O‘ahu partners join in a program - Travel Pink, Travel O‘ahu to support the Hawai‘i Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. For details go to:

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❯❯ Helge Hellberg fan Your article on Helge Hellberg was terrific.

mouth is regarding alternative energies and

I have been a regular at the Thursday Civic

putting their money into Hawaii’s economy.

Center farmers market for many years, know

It’s not a bad place to visit either. W. H. Hamond, via e-mail

my farmers by name, and only purchase dairy products from Straus dairy. So I thought I was pretty “together” on the subject....not! I

Sure, Hawaii is gorgeous and sure the ho-

really hadn’t ever thought of my carbon foot-

tels are stepping it up to keep the state green

print from that vantage point. And topsoil

but are they really doing it to be more eco-

usually doesn’t make it into my vocabulary

friendly or because it is a marketing ploy and

either. And I love that Ms. Towle made sure

the new “in thing”. I see greenwashing. Chris Matthews, via e-mail

to include the personal detail that his companion animal Timber was adopted from the Marin Humane Society. Laurie Wilson, Mill Valley

❯❯ Take Me Away After seeing your fall fashion feature at Cavallo Point I am not only excited to start shopping but also to book a night at the re-

❯❯ Defender of Animals

sort. Thanks for reminding me that such a

I am an avid admirer of your magazine, but I

world-class venue is open for business! Kirtee Mehta, via e-mail

was taken aback by your lack of compassion in choosing to run your back cover featuring a fur-clad model. In this land of plenty,

❯❯ Danish Dreams

empathy for all living creatures begins at

Looovvveed the home feature in the

home. The animals used for fur are raised in

September issue. Not only was the layout,

astonishingly horrid conditions, more often

photography and writing all gorgeous but it

on foreign soils with no animal welfare laws

was an inspiration to see how the owner in-

in place. It is not uncommon for them to be

tertwined her passion for horses and her life-

electrocuted or skinned alive. This dirty little

style so elegantly (no flies buzzing in this

secret may not be warmly welcomed in idyllic

kitchen!). But can’t you feature more homes

Marin, but in our land of plenty, empathy for

under 3,500 square feet? Marin isn’t all

all living creatures surely begins at home.

McMansions. It seems these “smaller” homes

Hannah Tai, Mill Valley

may represent a large part of your audience— and we could use some design tips and inspi-

❯❯ Power in Paradise Having lived in Hawaii for many years and

ration as well. Klaus Von Hopper, Sausalito

relocated to Marin only recently due to the lack of opportunities in my work field, I’m ready to pack my bags and head back over af-

MARIN

OCTOBER 2008

Letters to the editor may be edited for clarity and

ter Mimi Towle’s article “Power in Paradise.”

brevity. Send letters to Marin Magazine, One

It’s exciting to see so many international

Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965.

companies putting their money where their

Or e-mail jwood@marinmagazine.com.

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

STARRING YOU

Come take center stage at Town Center’s annual Trick or Treat party. Stroll from shop to shop, collecting goodies and showing off your Halloween costume.

TRICK-OR-TREAT AT TOWN CENTER Sunday, October 26th from 12-3pm

at participating merchants. Complimentary bags while supplies last. Fly on down!

To wn C e n te r Gift C ar ds now available at the Town C enter Managem ent O f f i c e o r o n l i n e a t w w w. s h o p t o w n c e n t e r. c o m

We are located off the Tamalpais Drive exit. For more information, call 415-924-2961. Visit our 65 unique shops and restaurants including Z Gallerie, P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, west elm and more.

POV

Marin and the Freeway Do the litter and weeds bother anyone else?

BY JIM WOOD

Village shopping center. Another sore sight is

Marin’s Center for Volunteer and Nonprofit

the Central San Rafael exit, where weeds con-

Leadership has no record of them.

stantly collect litter. The recently expanded

Another problem exists at the unsight-

Blithedale Avenue/Tiburon Boulevard off-ramp

ly Blithedale/Tiburon interchange, where an

can also use some maintenance. With minimal

Adopt-A-Highway sign indicates Mill Valley’s

effort—clearing dead branches, removing in-

Peace Lutheran Church is volunteering to pick

vasive weeds— the entire interchange, with its

up litter. “I’ve been trying to get Caltrans to

stately trees and gentle slopes, could be made

take that sign down for years,” Pastor Ricky

park-like. “Instead,” says one Marin resident

Adams told me last week. “The group that

who requested anonymity, “it’s dump-like.”

picked up litter left our church in 2001.”

I’ve met several times with the Caltrans per-

I called four other Adopt-A-Highway

sonnel responsible for maintaining these areas,

groups inquiring as to their volunteering

once traveling with them from the Golden Gate

efforts—and got two calls back. One was from

Bridge (both the entrance and exit were clut-

architect Colleen Mahoney whose sign is north

tered with weeds and litter) to north of Novato

of Novato. “We’ve been out on the freeway

(the roadsides looked rather respectable). My

several times a year for the last dozen years,”

conclusion: considering its budgetary restraints,

Mahoney says, “Over our two-mile stretch, we

m I overreacting or do others feel

Caltrans is doing the best it can. “At Caltrans’s

usually collect 30 bags of trash.” The other

the same? To me, the roadsides of

Manzanita Station,” says District 4 Maintenance

response came from McInnis Golf Park’s Eric

the 101 freeway in this county are

Superintendent Trent Manning (who’s based in

Hansen, who says his group has picked up in

an eyesore. When I drive even a small por-

Napa), “we have just five men to cover the 100

the past—“but lately, we’ve been a bit lazy.”

tion of Marin’s 28 miles of 101, I see stands of

miles of state highways in Marin.”

Meanwhile, weeds grow and trash col-

green and yellow fennel weeds, strips of plastic

Adding to the unfortunate situation, the

lects. Making matters even more frustrating,

sheathing, crunched-up orange traffic cones,

Adopt-A-Highway program in Marin is some-

“there are 11 groups waiting to volunteer in

large dead branches, and just plain junk.

what ineffective. First, says District Coordinator

Marin,” assistant Adopt-A-Highway coordina-

One person who agrees with me is Marilyn

Arnold Joe, only 58 percent 56 miles of county

tor Rebecca Strouse told me last week, “but we

Kessler, a 40-year resident of Marin and co-pub-

roadsides (counting both sides) are considered

don’t have openings for them.” Welcome to the

lisher of The Ark, weekly newspaper serving

safe by Caltrans for volunteers to work on.

bureaucracy of Caltrans. When I shared my re-

the Tiburon Peninsula. “I travel to Europe and

“Many of the shoulders are just too narrow,”

search, Strouse assured me she’d look into it.

my home state of Missouri and hardly see any

he says. “The liability is too great.”

Didn’t Will Rogers once say, “If a city’s streets

highway litter,” she says. “But in Marin, one of

Still, with Marin’s can-do volunteer spirit,

are a mess, one only wonders what else is

America’s wealthiest counties, it’s shocking it’s

that leaves almost 17 miles on each side of 101

amiss?” As far as Marin’s litter and weed-strewn

so bad.” When Kessler first returns from where

that could look so much better than they cur-

101 freeway goes, the only hope could be a

roadsides are mowed and picked up, the local

rently do. Here’s the problem: many of those

Marin-Caltrans partnership of volunteerism. And

scene is especially irksome. “But two weeks go

Adopt-A-Highway signs are dated. Example: a

to be sure, it will be hard work. If you’d like to

by and I get used to it.”

help, please e-mail me your comments and com-

Are you used to it? If so, heading south, no-

Summer Music Festival” is picking up litter

mitments. I know the world has greater prob-

tice the stretch of 101 in front of Corte Madera’s

along a one-mile stretch of 101. The prob-

lems; however, this is a place to start. That’s my

Marin Joe’s. It always looks bad. Heading north,

lem: that group is nowhere to be found—it’s

point of view. What’s yours?

ditto for the landscaping fronting the Strawberry

not in the phone book, nor on the Internet and

MARIN

OCTOBER 2008

E-mail jwood@marinmagazine.com.

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

Russ Colombo President & CEO, Bank of Marin

Sharing the Road to Success Training for triathlons isn’t the only thing Russ Colombo works hard on. He leads a team of bankers in putting local businesses on the road to success. And he doesn’t stop there. Russ and his team volunteer over 7,000 hours a year and serve on 70 non-profit boards in Marin and Sonoma. At Bank of Marin, we make it a priority to share the road. And to help our community enjoy a great ride.

Committed to your business and our community.

San Francisco

Sausalito

Mill Valley

Corte Madera

www.bankofmarin.com

San Rafael

MEMBER FDIC

Novato

Petaluma

EVE NT S I N MAR IN & B EYO ND

AT A G LANC E

OCTO BER THRU 12 Cool Globes: Hot Ideas

OCTOBER 2–3 Benefit Concert

OCTOBER 2–5 Oktoberfest by the Bay

See 40 colorfully painted globes, each five feet in diameter, designed by local, national and international artists, representing solutions to global warming. Crissy Field Promenade (SF). coolglobes.org

Jim Keltner, Ry Cooder and Nick Lowe take the stage in support of the Richard de Lone Special Housing Project. Great American Music Hall (SF). 415.885.0750, gamh.com

Grab your stein and head to the ultimate German celebration of beer, food and fun. Fort Mason (SF). oktoberfestbythebay.com

OCTOBER 2–12 Mill Valley Film Festival

OCTOBER 3 Art for AIDs

OCTOBER 4 EAT for Nicasio

The 31st annual Mill Valley Film Festival features more than 200 films from all over the world. CinéArts@Sequoia (Mill Valley), Rafael Film Center (San Rafael). 415.383.5256, mvff.com

Bid on more than 125 modern and contemporary works of art. Herbst International Exhibition Hall (SF). 415.502.7276, artforaids.org

Experience exceptional food and wine tastings from West Marin, view art available for purchase to benefit the Nicasio School. 415.662.2280, nicasioschoolfoundation@ marin.k12.ca.us

OCTOBER 5 Glide Bridge to Bridge Run Help benefit the Special Olympics at this 12K/7K walk and run in San Francisco. Ferry Building (SF). 415.995.6899, bridgetobridge.com

OCTOBER 16 Brewmaster Dinner Take in the festivities with Arne Johnson of Marin Brewing Company for the second annual dinner with a brewmaster. Noonan’s Bar and Grill (Larkspur). 415.464.8711, noonansbarandgrill.blogspot.com

MARIN

OCTOBER 2008

OCTOBER 5–7 Marin Symphony Celebrate the opening of Marin Symphony’s 56th season with a black-tie gala and music. Gala event October 5, music only October 7. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org

OCTOBER 16 Champagne and Shopping

OCTOBER 18–19 Bay Area Discovery Museum

Join linen designer Nancy Koltes for an evening of champagne and shopping. Nancy Koltes at Home (Mill Valley). 415.383.5811, nancykoltesathome.com

Children and families are invited to come in costume and enjoy games and live entertainment (Sausalito). 415.339.3900, baykidsmuseum.org

OCTOBER 25–26 Falkirk Cultural Center

OCTOBER 26 Marin County Triathlon

OCTOBER 31 Umphrey’s McGee

Handblown glass pumpkins take over the Falkirk Center this Halloween. (San Rafael). 415.485.3328, falkirkculturalcenter.org

Cheer on your favorite athlete or participate. The first-ever Marin County Triathlon includes swimming, biking and running events. McNears Beach County Park (San Rafael). 415.479.1013, marintriathlon.com

This jam band has been called the next Phish; check them out this Halloween. The Warfield (SF). 415.421.8497, goldenvoice.com

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

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M A R I N ALBUM

Pumpkin Pitch “There are three things

BY TIM PORTER

PITY THE POOR PUMPKIN. Unlike its more prosaic cousins in the squash family—zucchi-

ni, butternut and acorn, for example, all dinner table staples—the great orange orb of

I have learned never to discuss with people:

the Cucurbita clan is relegated to Halloween and Thanksgiving appearances, and then mostly for decorative purposes rather than for culinary quality. It just gets no respect. Oh yes, there are plenty more uses for pumpkin than pies. Italy stuffs it into ravioli.

religion, politics, and

Japan coats it with tempura. Thailand steams it with custard for dessert. Here in North

the Great Pumpkin.”

and trying to ﬁnd the allspice we bought last year so we can crank out the annual pie.

America, though, the pumpkin’s genetic home, we generally stick to roasting the seeds The fate of the holiday pumpkin is ignoble. It is butchered, carved and subjected to

– LIN US, THE GREAT PUMPKIN

other anthropomorphic acts, then left to wither sadly on the stoop—all in exchange for a Since we choose to disguise pumpkins as people, perhaps we can also attach feelings to them. Is it not possible that pumpkins in the ﬁeld—like those pictured above near Nicasio—wait with as much hope-ﬁlled anticipation for their own mythical Linus, a single human to revere them, as that blanketed little boy did for the Great Pumpkin?

MARIN

OCTOBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTO: TIM PORTER

few moments of frivolity.

Calm. Cool. Very Collected.

C U R R E NT S

everything under one green roof! Eco Lunch Marin resident Chance Claxton is helping to reduce campus trash with her new Kids Konserve wastefree lunch kit, which includes a stainless steel beverage container, two stainless steel food containers, a sandwich container and a cloth napkin, all stored in a

It’s been three years in the making and now, ﬁnally, visitors can ﬁnd out just what is under that 2.5-acre living roof at the new California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park. Last month the museum threw open its doors and showed off its new digs with a celebration that included Chinese acrobats, family-friendly activities, live music and dance, and sustainably sourced food from all over the world. Now visitors can check out the innovative new museum for themselves and get up close and personal with the new Morrison Planetarium, Kimball Natural History Museum, Steinhart Aquarium—even a four-story rain forest. 415.379.8000, calacademy.org

GREEN VALET THE LARK CREEK INN, along with

Hamilton Goes Green SolarCraft has recently completed a 35.4-kilowatt solar energy system at the new 94,000-square-foot Hamilton Marketplace Complex in

sister restaurant YANKEE PIER in

walkways will be powered by 165 SunPower solar mod-

(normally $4 per vehicle) to those who

ules. The solar setup will enable the complex to generate

arrive in hybrid, electric and natural-gas-

reusable cotton sack. The lunch kit retails for $40 and all items are available separately. 415.413.4723, kidskonserve.com 32

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OCTOBER 2008

Novato. All common areas, certain parking lot areas and

Larkspur, is offering free valet parking

enough clean electricity to spare the air nearly 31 tons of harmful greenhouse gases annually, equivalent to the air

powered vehicles. Guests also have the option to store bicycles in the shared bike rack.

ﬁltering done by 6.2 acres of trees. San Rafael’s Scott Urquhart, Murray Orrick and Randy Phillippe have released Let’s Go Green, a children’s CD all about going green. On October 18 the group will perform at the Del Mar School book fair in Tiburon. 415.785.3722, letsgogreenkids.com

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

C U R R E NT S

Mmm…Burgers

Groomed Pooches Marin pooches can get cleaned in style

Balboa Cafe Comes to Mill Valley

with Aussie Pet, a fully equipped

The new Sweetwater location

mobile pet grooming salon, custom

has a tasty new neighbor

designed with air-conditioning and

with the 3,100-square-foot

a heated hydro bath. Pets are pam-

Balboa Cafe. The interior

pered with a 15-step spa treatment that includes shampoo, massage,

features a large walnut bar

blow-dry, brushing and nail clipping. Extra services include aloe treat-

and antique mirrors; the

ments for dry skin, nail grinding, flea and tick control and a nontoxic doggie pedicure.

menu includes the signature Balboa burger, a Cobb salad, Dungeness crab cakes and

800.738.662453,

a full children’s menu. 38 Miller Ave.,

aussiepetmobile.com

Mill Valley. balboacafe.com

kid flicks What happens when two lifelong Marin-based friends with a love of dancing start making children’s films? They wind up with three films, The Letter Q, Dance-A-Bet and Pink Wrap, in the Mill Valley Film Festival, of course. See the films produced by Melinda Darlington-Bach and Cynthia Pepper and complete with voice- and giggle-over provided by Pepper’s two daughters, at the festival this October 2–12. mvff.com

PEDAL

PUSHING The Marin County Bicycle Coalition is hoping to double its numbers with programs like a membership-in-a-bottle offer, which will be sold at local bike shops and includes a bike map, membership and bicycle water bottle. The coalition uses the money it raises for community improvements like the newly striped bike lanes in the county and bike route signs. Join by visiting marinbike.org.

MARIN

OCTOBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

C U R R E NT S

Label Hunting TIRED

SQUINTING

SIX-POINT

PRINT on the side a cereal box to ﬁnd

out what you’re eating? Labelwatch.com, a brand new website with a database of

THE FUTURE OF DRIVING

over 25,000 brand-name products, al-

Meaning to “fly from the earth” in Latin, this small wonder of engineering does just that. The brainchild of Marin native now East Coaster and MIT grad Carl Dietrich and his team, the Terrafugia Transition allows flying enthusiasts to pilot a small craft with speed and agility and still drive away from the airport in a street-legal vehicle. Designed to auto safety standards with an optional parachute. You’ll never complain about traffic again. terrafugia.com

bel peek at their favorite foods. Special K

lows curious consumers a behind-the-lacereal? While most ingredients are “OK” if not “beneﬁcial,” a few, including BHT, get a cautionary nod. A simple click tells us, “BHT retards rancidity in oils. It either increased or decreased the risk of cancer in various animal studies. Residues of BHT occur in human fat. BHT is unnecessary or is easily replaced by safe substitutes (see

discussion of BHA). Avoid it when possible.” A modern-day Cassandra, Diane Manning, felt compelled to launch this website to help others after suffering her own bout of poor health due to the unknown additives in her otherwise healthy diet. “For the last 20 years, my partners and I have marketed a broad assortment of food and beverage brands, ranging from organic to fast food to processed foods,” she says. “The differences between how companies formulate their products and the questionable additives used by some is absolutely astounding. As a result, we decided it was high time that people learn the truth about some of these food additives and the products that contain them. “ Look for Evo Spa’s Neka Pasquale in the site’s Smart Living section, where she’ll be dispensing nutritional tidbits as the site’s dietary adviser. abelwatch.com

Old Pills Piling Up? California’s “No Drugs Down the Drain” campaign kicks off to promote disposal of unwanted medication to keep pharmaceuticals out of the sewer system and waterways. As most of us know, you shouldn’t discard old medicine by flushing it down the toilet. Studies have shown the presence of pharmaceuticals in waterways have been linked to the skewed gender ratios in fish populations off the coast of Orange County and male fish in the Potomac River and Boulder Creek displaying female traits. To learn where you can safely throw away unwanted medication, check out nodrugsdownthedrain. org, which lists locations by zipcode.

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OCTOBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

your path to renewal begins october 2008

Where scents free the mind, melodies inspire the spirit and massage nourishes the soul. Welcome to the only oceanfront spa in Waikı̄ kı̄ – a 16,000 square foot haven of rejuvenation and revival. For more information, please visit moanalanispa.com or call 808-922-3111.

C U R R E NT S

Ranches and Rolling Hills C E L E B R AT I N G 1 0 Y E A R S of Marin

Agricultural Land Trust art shows, Ranches and Rolling Hills Art of West Marin—A Land Trust features 135 works by 40 artists. Proceeds from the sale of the book assist MALT in acquiring agricultural easements to protect farmland in Marin. Available through Windgate Press. 415.332.0912

Adventure

HIKING L E AV E YO U R CA R AT H O M E

POWER BOOKS Belvedere resident Carolyn Hansen and Novato resident Cathleen Peck have hiked together for years. The two friends, who met in college at Berkeley, were on one of their regular hikes in Paris (Cathleen used to live there) racing down the Rue di Rivoli, when Cathleen noted that they were “power hiking.” They agreed that power hiking—which they consider a walk with an agenda such as sightseeing—would be a great idea for a book.

and use the local West Marin Stagecoach to reach outof-the-way hikes with leader Judy Hall, who offers a yearround “Adventure Hiking Meets the Stage” program. Hall has received permission from landowners to take groups to areas that are normally off-limits to the public during her Friday and Sunday morning hikes. Sign up at marinlearn.com. 415.945.3730

Their first book, Power Hiking Paris, was unveiled last year, San Francisco has just been released and future books include London, New York, Beverly Hills and New Zealand. The two have visited all the boutiques and restaurants they recommend as stops along their hiking routes and the itineraries include tips on where to turn back if you get tired and the distance and approximate time of each hike. Order the books at powerhiking.com,

a new business model Tiburon-based professor, lecturer and businessman Jon Fisher has started and sold two companies in his life—the second, Bharosa, Inc., was bought by Oracle in 2007—and through that experience he has learned one or two things about building and selling a business. His ﬁrst-ever book, Strategic Entrepreneurism™—Shattering the Start-Up Entrepreneurial Myths, reveals all that he has learned. SelectBooks, Inc., $21.95, selectbooks.com 38

MARIN

OCTOBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

LIVE IN THE MOMENT

LOVE EVERY MINUTE

Immerse yourself in the experience that is Hong Kong.

As the city that bridges the East and the West, Hong Kong offers many transcendent experiences, traditional and contemporary, that will capture your heart and mind. Take in the Symphony of Lights from a nighttime cruise in Victoria Harbour, or visit the magniﬁcent Tian Tan Buddha on Lantau Island—each is a part of Hong Kong’s unique living culture. So, come to Hong Kong, and see for yourself that when a city lets you live in the moment, you’ll love every minute of it. DiscoverHongKong.com/usa

“Asia in Luxury” from $6,490 (land only) 15 days including Hong Kong, Beijing, Singapore, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Bangkok, Kanchanaburi Experience this once in a lifetime journey through Asia. Bask in luxury among the world’s most magnificent hotels such as The Peninsula and Raffles Hotels. Mention this ad and receive $150.00 off per person if booked by October 31, 2008. Call and speak to a SITA travel specialist today at: 1-800-421-5643 or visit us at www.sitatours.com SITA World Tours offers deluxe and luxury touring worldwide including to India, Africa, Asia, South Pacific, South America, and European River Cruises. Rates are per person and subject to availability. Discount applicable only if mentioned at time of booking. Excludes airfare and seasonal supplements. Please contact SITA World Tours for complete details and restrictions.

SNAP WESTIN CLOCK BAR

Michael Mina, Marcy Glaser, Jonathan Kaplan, Diane Mina

SIMAYOF

MC Hammer

DE BEERS

Jenevieve Randall, Lee Gregory

Seen and Heard Marinite Michael Mina’s ﬁrst cocktail lounge Westin Clock Bar in the Westin St. Francis opened to rave with over 300 selections and cocktail and food pairings. Also downtown, Simayof held an equality forever event,

Shoshana Simayof, Irv Spivak

where guests were invited to get engaged or married at the store, plus receive a discount on select jewelry.

NORDSTROM

Hamida Belkadi, Guy Leymarie

At the Fort Mason Center, Nordstrom presented its annual designer preview event. The fashion show was an opportunity for locals to view fall collections fresh off the runways. Ticket sales beneﬁted the Raphael House of San Francisco. De Beers CEO Guy Leymarie was on-hand to welcome customers to the city’s Fine Arts Museums. In Napa, more than 800 people celebrated the 25th anniversary of Cindy Pawlcyn’s legendary restaurant Mustards Grill. The event was topped off with a birthday cake prepared by Perfect Endings and a selection of the

Maria Manetti Farrow, Jerome Kerr-Jarrett, Leigh Matthes

restaurant’s greatest menu items.

Josh Horowitz, Alan Malouf, Damion Matthews

MUSTARDS GRILL

Kimberly Miller, Keylee Sanders

MARIN OCTOBER 2008

Joel Goodrich, Christopher Bently

Cindy Pawlcyn, Bill Harlen

Stephanie and Mark McGuire, Katherine and Brian Grimes, Sean and Kristen Knight

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTO CREDIT: WESTIN CLOCK BAR/DREW ALTIZER, SIMAYOF/CODY RASMUSSEN, NORDSTROM/DREW ALTIZER, DEBEERS/DREW ALTIZER, MUSTARDS/DREW ALTIZER

reviews from locals. Mina’s lounge features a wine list

“The Fine Art of Fine Property” Tracy McLaughlin Named Marin’s top producing agent for 2007 with 100 million sold. Specializing in Marin County Properties since 1997.

Tracy McLaughlin 415/464-8686 www.marinfinehomes.com tracy@marinfinehomes.com

SNAP NANCY PELOSI

Denise, Joseph Jr, Madison, and Dr. Joseph Fink

Heidi and Kyleigh Kuhn, Nancy Pelosi

An Evening with Nancy Pelosi In August, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi appeared at Dominican University of California’s Leadership Lecture series sponsored by Book Passage and Marin Magazine in San Rafael to speak about her new book, Know Your Power: A Message to America’s Daughters. The presentation featured a conversation between Pelosi and Book Passage president Elaine Petrocelli. Pelosi’s book looks back at her life, including growing up as the daughter of a congressman, raising ﬁve children and running for Congress herself. Denise Lucy

Pearlene Leary, Andrew Marshall

Cindy McClain, Dr. Fletcher Lamkin

Brent Thomson and Darlene Castleman

Mayor Al and Pat Boro

Ethel Seiderman, Claudia Keast

Libby and Laurie Weisheit

MARIN OCTOBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTO CREDIT: NANCY PELOSI/SHERI MONTGOMERY

Elaine and Bill Petrocelli

paciﬁcfertilitycenter.com

SNAP PRADA

Thomas Keller, Norah Stone

Emily and Roth Martin, Cecilia Harris

Openings & Pampering In San Francisco, Prada unveiled a new store in Union Square. A packed crowd of about 600 enjoyed an original menu from chef Thomas Keller and the music of DJ Jeffrey Tonnesen from New York’s the Box nightclub. Designed by architect Roberto Baciocchi, the ﬂagship has entrances on three major shopping streets: Post Street, Grant Avenue Leigh Matthes, Elizabeth Funk

Shannon Bavaro, Ali Hamidi

and Maiden Lane. Sausalito’s Coco-luxe chocolate business expanded to San Francisco with owner

COCO-LUXE

Stephanie Marcon’s ﬁrst Coco-luxe boutique and hot cocoa bar. San Francisco became the fourth city in the United States to host a CB2 store, which features furniture and home accessories in an 8,000square-foot space. Biondina owner Carrie Nelson offered clients advice (and products) on maintaining an economical beauty routine in today’s economy.

Amy Gosman

Colette Klaucke, Stephanie Marcon, Amelia Adams Speight

CB2

Marta Calle, Barbara Turf

MARIN OCTOBER 2008

Donald Falk, Radha Stern

Carrie Nelson, Ella Gutierrez

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTO CREDIT: PRADA/DREW ALTIZER, HEATHER WILEY, AUBRIE PICK

BIONDINA

invites you to join us for an evening of!

Champagne & Shopping with 15% OFF all purchases Thursday, October 16 s – 9 pm Strawberry Village, Mill Valley, CA RSVP to 415.383.5811 Meet linen designer and owner Nancy Koltes

New Cashmere See the lo ungewear new bedding collection collection

Drawing for Scand ia Down Pillo ws Gift Bags

This is one party you don't want to sleep through!

SNAP HOSPICE BY THE BAY

Fernanda Fischer, Lily Samii, Rita Moreno Thomas Keller, Norah Stone

CAROLINE DE LONE

Sandra Lew, Betsy Vobach

Caroline De Lone

Around Town While most teens in Marin enjoyed summer camps around the county, Tam High School’s Caroline de Lone performed along with her father’s band, Austin de Lone Soul Blues Orchestra, at Porretta Soul Festival in front of 3,000 people—American Idol? KRON-4 weatherman Mark Danon, film critic and hat aficionado Jan Wahl and Carolyne Zinko judged Hospice by the Bay’s sixth annual Looking Good hat competition. The event also featured a Lily Samii couture fashion show, seated luncheon, silent auction and raffle. In Tiburon, over 100 people attended a Luxury Marketing Council presentation with author Lewis Schiff who spoke on his new book, The Middle-Class Millionaire. Susan Tenenbaum, Carolyne Zinko, Jan Wahl, Mark Danon

Christy Aronian, Gayle Tornberg, Collette DeMitis Brandy Anderson, Luiz Panchihak

Judith Branch, Carol Jesmore

MARIN OCTOBER 2008

Jan Schmidt

Joe Delaney, Leslie Rundell

Ed D’Elicio, Mary Beth Brenner

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTO CREDIT: CAROLINE DE LONE/ADVERSI IVANO; HOSPICE BY THE BAY/CHARLIE NUCCI

LUXURY MARKETING

FA S H I ON TRENDS

a little bit country, a little bit rock and roll 5 3

Whether you love country with all your “heart and soul” or you go out on Saturday nights for “a little bit of rock and roll,” top designers have got you covered. Perfectly plaid combinations dominated the runways of Dolce & Gabbana and Ralph Lauren, while studded boots from Chloe and all things leather at Rick Owens rocked for fall 2008. — by somer flaherty

1. Rosana boot by Chloe, price available upon request at Saks Fifth Avenue (SF). 415.986.4300, saksﬁfthavenue.com

2. Narrow plaid belt by A.P.C., $120 by mail order at A.P.C. 212.966.0069

3. Windowpane check print dress by Orla Kiely, $481 at orlakiely.com

4. Check dress by Wunderkind, $2,985 at wunderkind.com 5. Velvet Cuff by Grey Gardens, price upon request at greygardenscollection.com

6. Wide Chain Bracelet by Juicy Couture, $128 at Juicy Couture (Corte Madera). 415.927.2797, juicycouture.com

MARIN

OCTOBER 2008

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lifestyle Name Robert C. Placak Home Tiburon Occupation Insurance company president and swim race director Describe your personal style. My style is This October

all-American classic with an eye toward

5 marks the

clean lines—just as comfortable in a suit as

ninth year

in shorts or workout attire.

of the RCP Tiburon Mile,

What are you wearing? Just your basic

the popular

khakis and a polo shirt.

open-water swim race

Who are your fashion influences? My wife,

from Ayala

Graciela—classic beauty with understated

Cove on Angel

elegance. I like to complement her style

Island to the

and sensibilities.

Tiburon shore. “RCP” stands

Where do you love to shop in Marin?

for Robert C.

When I have the time or inspiration I go

Placak—founder

to Gene Hiller (where I) make a beeline to

of the event,

Tom Gangitano, Marin’s fashion guru. For

president

some reason I’m usually inspired after a

of Robert

Saturday-morning swim workout and walk

C. Placak &

in wearing shorts and a T-shirt, with my

Associates

wife. Tom loves a challenge and always

Insurance

makes you feel like a million bucks.

Services, and an elite

What is always in your bag/pockets? A

swimmer.

money clip with a credit card and cash and

Placak and

pictures of my family.

his son hone their skills in

What is your best cheapo secret? Tuesday

their Olympic-

comedy night at the Throckmorton with my

size backyard

teenage son and wife or a family drive to

lap pool in

Ghirardelli Square for a hot fudge sundae.

Tiburon. Want What’s your fashion pet peeve? None.

the race? Visit rcptiburonmile.

What is your view of Marin style? The style

com.

of Marin is as diverse as the people and our microclimates. We live with world-class views and open space to inspire, and within

MARIN

OCTOBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

P H OTO: BARBA RA R IE S

to sign up for

this beauty are health-conscious, freethinking individuals who are not afraid to take risks. Where do you love to eat in Marin? El Paseo Restaurant in Mill Valley—excellent service, charming setting with creative wine list and menu. How do you spend your weekends? Ideally at my home. I begin my day with a swim workout along with a buddy and my son; that challenges me. Then, many times on a whim, I’m off with my family to explore Marin. Dinner with friends and family at our home, (a meal) that my wife Graciela prepares so creatively. Home is where I love to be. Where do you go to pamper yourself? Ultimate pampering is a visit to Foot Massage on Fourth Street in San Rafael. How would your friends describe you? Focused, driven, determined and generous; not afraid to take a risk. I’d rather regret the things I do than something I didn’t do. What was the last book you read and why? The Wisdom of Crowds, by James Surowiecki, because it was given to me by a respected friend. What was the last movie you saw? Roman Polanski: Wanted and Desired—loved seeing it in a funky San Francisco theater. If your life were a movie, what would be your theme song? “Fly Like an Eagle.” Followed by my favorite quote to live by, from Dr. Seuss: “Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.” MARINMAGAZINE.COM

MARIN

OCTOBER 2008

FYI

FOR YOUR INFORMATION PEOPLE

The local music community rallies around their very own soul man BY JONATHAN KORTY

THE MEMBERS OF THE DE LO N E FA M I LY — Austin, Lesley,

Caroline and Richard — are a weekend fixture in Lytton Square. As they stroll across the red brick plaza, they attract numerous hellos and hugs from the well-heeled and shoeless alike , and for good reason. For three decades, Austin — known more familiarly as Audie — has graced the Marin music community with his soulful piano playing, an encyclopedic knowledge of music history and a confident, easygoing stage presence. He has collaborated with, inspired or booked many of the best rock musicians of his era and earned industry-wide respect. Those musicians are now returning the favor. Soon after Austin’s son, Richard, was born in 1998, he

PH OTO: TI M PORTER

Austin de Lone

was diagnosed with PraderWilli syndrome, a debilitating and rare genetic disorder that has stunted his development and made him unable to care for himself. When the disease tested the limits of the de Lone

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MARIN

OCTOBER 2008

playing together at the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival in Golden Gate Park that weekend. “It’s going to be another wild and wooly adventure at the Great American Music Hall,” he says. The de Lone family lives in a small two-bedroom home on Plymouth Avenue in Mill Valley’s Sycamore Park neighborhood. A few years back, it became apparent that Richard couldn’t live at home full-time. While he still attends a special education class at Olive Elementary School in Novato, during the week he lives at a residential facility in Greenbrae, returning home on the weekends.

family’s financial and emotional resources, the local music community stepped in, proving the truth of the Beatles lyrics “I get by with a little

When the disease tested the limits of the de Lone family’s ﬁnancial and emotional resources, the local music community stepped in, proving the truth of the Beatles lyrics “I get by with

help from my friends.” “Many people turn to their church in times of need,” says Lesley, Austin’s wife of 25 years.

a little help from my friends.”

sic community. Musicians are an eclectic group

who performed at a benefit for the organization

Seated at a picnic table beneath a sprawling

of sensitive souls and when it comes to Richard,

in San Francisco with Clover, the Marin band

apple tree in a backyard, decorated with pots

they have been 100 percent supportive.”

that backed Costello on his first album, My Aim

(some planted, some empty), a trampoline, a

Is True. Another round of musical fundraisers

wayward bag of soil and half-finished projects

foundation — The Richard de Lone Special

is scheduled for October 2–3, also at the Great

intended for Lesley’s floral business or her

Housing Project— whose goal is to raise $5

American Music Hall, featuring Jim Keltner, Ry

job as a personal chef for Sausalito novelist

million in order to build a special home for

Cooder and Nick Lowe.

Catherine Coulter, the de Lones talk about

The

Lones

have

started

people with Prader-Willi. Last year, the effort

There’s also a good chance Costello will

got a big financial boost from Elvis Costello,

stop by, says de Lone, because they’ll be

how life has changed in their quarter century in Mill Valley.

ABOVE : de Lone playing for fans last summer at the Porretta Soul Festival in Italy. RIGHT : Elvis Costello with Richard, 2004. FAR RIGHT : de Lone family Christmas 2007.

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OCTOBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTO: D E LONE PERF ORMI NG/A DVERSI I VANO; FA M ILY P HOTO/ BAR BARA BUR OS

“We don’t go to church, so we turned to the mu-

Austin moved into the house in 1972. He recalls those early days with fondness. “I love the house, love the neighborhood,” he says. “When I first moved in, it was total Americana, with manicured front lawns, and picket fences, but there wasn’t that much of a community. When Caroline was young, a sort of magic happened, with kids running in and out of houses, spontaneous cocktails parties and block-wide Easter egg hunts. It was almost like it wasn’t real — Ozzie and Harriet kind of stuff.” The yard once had a full view of Mount Tam to the west. Today, the peak is barely visible behind the latest supersized remodel in this coveted neighborhood. “And to think I used to sunbathe naked out here,” says Lesley, with a nod toward her neighbor’s windows just over the fence. “At least we can still see our mountain.” Richard, teetering on the concrete steps

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leading to the backyard, interrupts the conversation. He wears his sister’s knock-off Burberry Wellies, a diaper and a striped T-shirt. He smiles and idly swings one of Lesley’s purses. Richard is a 120-pound (and growing) bundle of energy, unconditional love and — unfortunately — appetite. Prader-Willi causes (among other conditions) an insatiable hunger that usually leads to morbid obesity. Families must lock up all food. Richard’s face, framed by thick dark brown hair, is smudged with chocolate — he’s found a Cadbury egg in his mother’s purse. The de Lones must keep the front door bolted as well. Richard leaves the house and PHOTO : DELONE PE RF ORM ING/ADVERSI IVA NO; BARBARA BUROS

wanders. In the past, he has made his way to a video store on nearby Miller Ave. Lately, he’s had an affinity for three neighboring homes. As Lesley gets up to do a chocolate intervention with Richard, de Lone talks about the goal of his foundation. “The new home will be a facility specifically for the Prader-Willi population,” he says. “It will have a lock-down kitchen and will be designed to meet their various unique and specific needs. We also plan for it to have recreational facilities, a gym, a pool, and connections to the medical community.” Inside the family’s 900-square-foot home, original paintings by George Frayne

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(Commander Cody) hang in the living room.

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OCTOBER 2008

“Sometimes I took art, instead of cash,” says

Our covers. Your walls. Now you can buy Marin Magazine covers for your home or ofﬁce. Available in various sizes, framed or unframed, with or without the Marin Magazine logo, these professional quality prints are a beautiful addition to any wall. Visit marinmagazine.com/coverart today.

Austin, pointing to various pieces around the room. In Austin’s combination music-storage room, Caroline, a Tam High junior, sits at the computer browsing Facebook pages. Lesley points out family heirlooms, including a large photo of Austin’s great-great grandmother, a doyenne of Philadelphia society. A black chipped grand Steinway fills most of the room. The great-great grandmother bought in 1915. “His family came over on … Audie, what boat was that?” asks Lesley. “Some came over on the Mayflower,” he responds, reluctantly.

The healing power of music Austin, 60-something, reflects on his musical journey. “When I was 6,” he says, “I wanted to be a doctor. And when I was 12, I wanted to be a jazz piano player—so I think it worked out.” Music has become de Lone’s medicine. “Music has a spiritual power, in that it speaks to everybody,” he says. “Different music speaks to different people. It lifts the spirits and is a great healer.” De Lone launches into a story about being seasick as a boy on his family’s boat. Lying miserably there in the cabin, he turned on the

MARI N E X T R A O R D I N A R Y

radio and on came his favorite song. Instantly,

L I V I N G

he felt better. “If you’re terribly sad, music can soothe you; if you’re anxious, it can soothe you,” he says, watching his son. “Take Richie, for example, not only does he love a good boogie-woogie, but many other types of music will

OCTOBER 2008

relax him. It’s a universal language.” De Lone speaks this language fluidly. Ray Charles and George Shearing were early influences. He studied at the New England

MARI N

MARI N E X T R A O R D I N A R Y

E X T R A O R D I N A R Y

L I V I N G

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Conservatory of Music, Harvard and Berkeley

L I V I N G

before landing in Greenwich Village. In 1970, Chas Chandler, the man who discovered Jimi Hendrix, met de Lone and took his band, Eggs JUNE 2008

JANUARY 2008

FEBRUARY 2008

DECEMBER 2007

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JULY 2008

Over Easy, to London to record at Olympic

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Studios, where the Rolling Stones and Led

L I V I N G

Zeppelin had recorded albums. A weekly gig at a pub called the Tally-Ho in Kentish Town began to sell out. It soon became a four-nightFEBRUARY 2007 JUNE 2007

MAY 2007

APRIL 2007

SEPTEMBER 2008

a-week residency that lasted more than a year. de Lone’s original blend of blues, country and

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OCTOBER 2008

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rock became known as pub rock. It also caught the ears of an up-and-coming Nick Lowe and a

young Elvis Costello. De Lone eventually fell in love with a

“ In moving here, I gained incredible freedom. Now I go where I want, when I want, knowing that everything I need today—and may need tomorrow—is right at my doorstep.”

British girl—Lesley. He didn’t meet her in a London pub, though, but rather in a Mill Valley bar while visiting a friend. “The scene in town then and especially at the Old Mill Tavern (today Vasco’s restaurant) was incredible—magical,” says de Lone. “It was an artistic melting pot filled with people like Sam Shepard, Steve Miller, Dan Hicks, Bob Weir, Marty Balin, Grace Slick and any number of hippies, freaks, rednecks, bikers and suits.” When a new club named the Sweetwater opened, taking over a popular bar called the Office, as in “Honey, I’ll be late at the office tonight,” de Lone fell headlong into that scene. There, he collaborated for years with its owner, Jeannie Patterson, and Village Music owner

Resident Annette Carrel – Sculptor and bon vivant

John Goddard to lead some of the most memorable jams in Bay Area history, making musi-

Total freedom to experience joy every day.

cal gumbo with Jerry Garcia, John Lee Hooker, Albert Collins, James Burton (Elvis Presley’s guitar player), Carla Thomas and Sammy Hagar. “Austin coordinated the music for every odd-

Life Care at The Tamalpais gives you the freedom to live the life you deserve while enjoying a world of inspiring choices. Here, everything you need is close at hand: a wealth of activities and services tailored for your independent lifestyle, plus onsite access to expert medical care, assisted living, and skilled nursing—all available without a change in monthly fees. The Tamalpais is the only fully accredited Life Care community in Marin County. Peace of mind is closer than you think. Control future health care costs for your lifetime and make this liberating choice.

ball lineup Jeannie and I came up with over the years,” says Goddard. “He’s unlike any musician I’ve ever met, able to inspire and raise the level of performance of everyone onstage with him.” De Lone continues to play with his bands, the Sophisticated Dudes or Austin de Lone’s Soul Blues Orchestra. Every December, he plays with ex-Moonlighters bandmate Bill Kirchen, Norton Buffalo and the Christmas Jug Band. He’s also eagerly anticipating the reopening of Sweetwater at 32 Miller Avenue. “What a cool scene it will be when the Sweetwater and Lucy Mercer’s 142

music to Mill Valley,” he says. “I have lived in Mill Valley for many years and although much has changed about this town, one thing that has remained the same is the wonderful musical community that exists here. It has always been and remains a source of great friendship, strength and indeed help in times of trouble.” More information about de Lone’s benefit

Throckmorton Theatre are both bringing live

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and foundations at rdshp.org.

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OCTOBER 2008

F Y I CAUS E S

Nancy’s List Marin woman survives cancer and vows to help others BY SOMER FLAHERTY

’m not a person who goes to doctors,” says Nancy

dark day when this all happened,” Novack recalls. That

Novack. But on April 29, 2004, the 65-year-old

same day she was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer.

“I

thought she was having an appendicitis attack. After

While at Stanford receiving treatment, she was haunted

rushing to the hospital and getting a CAT scan, she

by the sight of other patients suffering all by themselves

learned there was a tumor in her ovary the size of a grape-

during such a difficult time. “It was hard to see the sadness

fruit, and the problem had spread to the liver. “It was a

that comes from the people who are alone; even the nurses would say (to me), ‘It was such a joy when you came in (for treatment) and would bring food and friends.’ I was really lucky I never had to be alone.” The high cost of treatment, even with insurance, was also startling: “I had a fancy PPO, but it didn’t cover all expenses.” To boost her white cell count high enough to withstand 21 rounds of chemotherapy, she had to give herself a shot each day, but her insurance didn’t pay for self-administered procedures. People who don’t have money to do it, they might not live, Novack says. “Who’s going to pay for it? Or when it’s over and the debt piles up, the financial end of it can be extraordinary.” She decided she wanted to help, so she met with Linda Campbell of the American Cancer Society. They decided that what

that wasn’t being addressed by the many agencies that deal with cancer in the county—was a central resource, a primary place where cancer sufferers seeking

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OCTOBER 2008

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P H OTO: TIM P ORTER

was missing in Marin—a need

information could turn. A project that would involve the entire community’s participation. With Campbell’s support, Novack started researching, and Nancy’s List was born. The website, nancyslist.org, features financial information, a calendar with events like yoga classes for cancer patients, a bulletin board where members can seek or find assistance like rides to treatment, and a resource list for information about cancer. The site accepts donations, through Google Checkout, to meet needs like building up the section of the site geared to teens. “If money were no object, I’d make (the site) bigger, take it into the city,” Novack says.

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Novack, who is now cancer-free is also a practicing clinical psychologist, and fields phone calls day and night from people dealing with cancer, some from as far away as London. “Doctors don’t have time to listen to you at two in the morning. I’d like to be able to do that. A 76-year-old woman who was being treated in New York, we talked every day for eight months and she said there was no one in her life she could talk to. When I got diagnosed I wanted a therapist who had cancer and I never found one.” Dr. Karin Gaensler, a UCSF clinical professor of hematology/oncology and a friend of Novack’s, applauds her efforts. “She’s articu-

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late and her life experience validates what she says and how she approaches things. She’s an extraordinary person who has turned this cata-

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strophic event into something that has enormous positivity.” What’s needed now for Nancy’s List, she says, are more resources—someone else to run the phones and devise an e-mail setup and a donor structure. “In Marin we assume that everyone has good health insurance and a support system,” Gaensler adds. “In fact, that is not the case.” Even with inadequate funds, Novack is determined to keep Nancy’s List alive. “I’m thrilled with this project, but I’m (also) thrilled with what it says about the community we live in. For me, (this ordeal) can be a very trans-

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F Y I H OM E DECO R

3 1

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SENSATIONAL SOFAS Take center stage in living spaces For some all it takes is alluring upholstery, shapely arms and cozy cushions all piled together to create the perfect sofa. But before choosing the right one you’ve got to know what it will be used for—is it the anchor of an entertainer’s living room or a spot for the kids to plop down in after school? Do you prefer to sink in after a long day at work or embrace the support

of a straight back? Sunrise Home owner Annie Bowman says most of her clients keep their couches for eight to ten years. “Usually the couch is the center of any lovely well-appointed room and is often the major investment piece.” —S.F.

1. The Wakeley Sofa (opposite) by Thomas O’Brien, $4,569 at Sunrise Home (San Rafael). 415.456.3939, sunrisehome.com 2. Reid sectional sofa in Saffron by Jeffrey Bernett and Design Within Reach, $5,500 at Design Within Reach (Mill Valley). 415.384.0480, dwr.com 3. Italian Art Deco Three Seat Sofa by

William Switzer, $4,595 at William Switzer & Associates (SF). 415.621.0575,

williamswitzer.com

4. The Anna Sofa by the J Banks Collection, $5,762.50 at Ireko (Santa Rosa). 707.579.3700, ireko.com 5. Le Jules Verne Settee by Andre Arbus Collection, $8,595 at William Switzer & Associates (SF). 415.621.0575, williamswitzer.com

6. Mahler sofa by Ebanista, price available upon request at Ebanista (SF). 415.487.9200, ebanista.com

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OCTOBER 2008

WEAR AND TEAR Although the type of upholstery you choose will most likely affect the price you pay for a sofa, it’s important to also keep the fabric’s durability in mind. According to the Association for Contract Textiles, a trade organization made up primarily of the companies that supply fabric to the interior design community, the standard test for wear in the textile industry is the Wyzenbeek test. In this test, samples of a fabric are stretched on a machine that mechanically rubs an abradant (such as wire mesh) back and forth against the sample. Each time this happens it’s called a double rub. The number of double rubs endured before the fabric shows noticeable wear determines the fabric’s abrasion rating. A fabric that withstands 15,000 double rubs without any of its threads being broken is appropriate for “general contract upholstery.” Material that survives 30,000 double rubs is considered heavy-duty

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FABRIC CHOICES MAKE A COST DIFFERENCE “A Lucky Magazine Favorite Boutique”

Many factors contribute to the cost of a sofa. Annie Bowman, owner of the 30,000-square-foot San Rafael home furnishings store Sunrise Home, says a sofa’s fabric selection can often be the greatest differential, as an

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average couch requires close to 20 yards of fabric. “If customers select

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if they select a $200-per-yard fabric

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the cost of the fabric alone ends up being $4,000, which represents a

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has nothing to do with wearability. “Some people get confused thinking

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definitely not the case. Some average fabrics such as denim at $22-per-yard will wear far longer than a $125-peryard dupioni silk.”

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F Y I F I LM

Of Ticks and Misery Marin fi lmmaker documents Lyme disease’s toll BY JANE GANAHL It took Wilson two years, 350 hours of film, and bottomless heartache to learn how wrong he was. The Emmy-nominated producer/director plunged himself into the Lyme disease issue: documenting the lives of sufferers, investigating the controversies about treatment, exposing a conflict-of-interest scandal in the medical establishment—and raising the red flag of epidemic. “That is not too strong a word, no,” the handsome 44-year-old says solemnly. “The Centers for Disease Control estimate that more than 200,000 people are getting Lyme each year—which makes it the fastest-growing infectious disease in the country, greater than AIDS and West Nile virus combined.” For those unacquainted with Lyme disease, it can result from a bite of a deer tick infected with the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. Symptoms range from rash, fever, chills and body aches to joint swelling, weakness and paralysis. When diagnosed correctly and early, it’s relatively easy to cure; when misdiagnosed, unrecognized or left untreated, the disease can be debilitating or even deadly. And the North Bay is a potential hotbed of Lyme infection. “Just the other day I was in our neighborhood restaurant having lunch,” says Wilson, “and knew pretty much everyone in there. And when I added it up, I realized that fully half of them had Lyme disease. And that’s just one little slice of Marin life.” There’s no way of knowing exact numbers, he says. “California doesn’t keep records on Lyme—we’re not required to. But Marin, Sonoma, Napa, Mendocino and Santa Cruz counties are all fertile ground for the deer tick that carries it.” Unfortunately, Wilson says, Lyme is so hard to diagnose that thousands of people are either undiagnosed or misdiagnosed as having other primary ailments—from chronic fatigue to depression to fibromyalgia to MS and ALS. Marin resident and author Amy Tan, who appears in Under Our Skin, was misdiagnosed for years, suffering effects ranging from headaches to brain lesions, temporarily ending up in a wheelchair. No one in her fleet of doctors even considered that she might have Lyme.

telling” (Tribeca Film Festival), “artfully shot, dramatic” (Variety)

and “a riveting, taut thriller” (Maine International Film Festival). Director Andy Abrahams Wilson calls it a chance for atonement. “My twin sister contracted Lyme disease years ago,” says the Sausalito resi-

“Amy’s story is sadly typical,” says Wilson. “It’s a twofold failure of the medical community: they don’t know the best ways to test for Lyme, and even when they conclude it is Lyme, they can’t agree on how to treat it.”

dent in the Bridgeway office that houses his production company Open

The film suggests that the medical board governing treatment for

Eye Pictures. “And I didn’t realize how ill she was. In hindsight I wasn’t

chronic Lyme is guilty of conflicts of interest and in bed with insur-

patient or understanding. I thought maybe she was just being lazy.”

ance companies—a contention now confirmed by a successful lawsuit

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OCTOBER 2008

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P H OTO: TIM P ORTER

ritics have called the new documentary Under Our Skin many

things, including “superb” (Time Out New York), “expert story-

brought by Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal. As if the misery of Lyme weren’t enough, insurance companies have been refusing to pay for its treatment. “It’s because the medical gatekeepers (primary care providers) haven’t recognized chronic Lyme as a disease,” says Wilson. “Obviously, since it’s a long-term illness, it’s an expensive one. Insurance companies want to pretend it doesn’t exist.”

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One of the film’s most compelling profiles is that of Mandy Hughes, a former animal trainer at SeaWorld and Cheryl Tiegs look-alike who suffered neurological damage when her Lyme went undiagnosed for several years. In the film she bitterly repeats what one doctor told her: “There’s no medicine for someone like you. You’re an attractive girl and obviously you don’t

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feel like you’re getting enough attention.” Wilson documented Hughes’s story and dozens of others with his camera, recording their struggles and, with the lucky ones, their slow roads to recovery. He also recorded the stories of people whose family members lost their fights with the disease, including a child whose mother claims her daughter died while doctors fought over how to treat her. It was enough to make the veteran filmmaker lose his composure. “Being around these people for all this time was a real privilege, but also very difficult,” he says. “I finally broke down after the funeral se-

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quence; I was just sobbing in front of my coworkers. I guess I had been absorbing all this heartbreak and just had to let it go.” Galvanized by what he’d learned, Wilson has gone from dispassionate chronicler of events to crusader for change.

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“It’s great to have gotten all the great reviews,” he says, “but this won’t feel like a success to me until it becomes a watercooler topic. People need to see the film and become informed, so we can help curb the epidemic.” Maybe then, his penance will be complete.

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Valley and October 12 at the Rafael Film Center.

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OCTOBER 2008

FYI GREEN

TEENS TURNING GREEN Eco-minded teens create their own product line BY MIMI TOWLE

nce again a group of homegrown, green-minded entrepreneurs is making a national splash.

However, this time, they are not seasoned MBAs or corporate expats—they’re teenagers. Armed with conﬁdence beyond their years and a desire to make a difference, these motivated young ladies, who are also behind Teens for Safe Cosmetics, have created their own product line targeted to teens, called Teens Turning Green, or TTG, set to launch via Whole Foods nationwide. “To find the right products, we partnered with companies that are thinking full circle,” says Erin Schrode, a senior at Marin Academy. “It was important that our partners implement sustainable packaging and business practices, value fair trade and act in responsible ways that protect our health, planet and future.” Corte Madera’s EO is on board, with its organic rosemary-and-mint sanitizing spray (created especially for TTG), which unlike other brands doesn’t contain triclosan, a hormone-disrupting chemical that made news last year as one of the most common pollutants found in San Francisco Bay.

Above are some of the founding members of Teens Turning Green. BACK ROW FROM LEFT: Keara Reardon, Danielle Littman, Emily Goldsborough, CarlyWertheim, Natalie Whalen FRONT ROW: Emily Packer, Bonnie Wolf

Tzeira Sofer of Pomega5 is adding a pomegranate cleansing bar, toning mist and “pom” moisturizer to the mix. “As a visionary and an educator whose goal is to offer women safer, healthier products, I feel there couldn’t be a better partner for Pomega5,” Sofer says. “Teens for Safe Cosmetics is run by another visionary [Erin’s mother, Judi Shils] and a group of smart, conscientious and dedicated young women who are taking responsibility for carrying out the mission of educating consumers on how to make responsible choices about the products they use.” the business of evolving personal care products so that they perform, are beautiful to use, contain organic ingredients and are always safe and effective—at the same time keeping them accessible [pricewise].” Before the product rollout at Whole Foods, Teens Turning Green will be launching their line this month at the Green Spa event at the Village at Corte Madera October 5.

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P H OTO: TIM P ORTER

Susan Grifﬁth Black of EO echoes her words. “Since EO started in 1995, we have been in

Teen Facials Here’s something to save those babysitting wages for: teen-focused facials, at some of the best spas in town. BAY CLUB MARIN Teen Facial, $65 member/$75 guest After a thorough cleansing, exfoliation and gentle extractions (as needed), a detoxifying massage is performed. A clarifying mask follows; then an appropriate protective emulsion is applied. Hygiene and skin care are discussed to help build good habits. Teens under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, 45 minutes (Corte Madera). 415.945.3000, bayclubmarin.com CHAMPAGNE SALON AND DAY SPA Teen Facial, $60 A customized facial for teen-speciﬁc skin types. Focuses on acne treatments, exfoliation, cleansing and toning, 45 minutes (Tiburon). 415.380.9111, champagnesalonanddayspa.com EVO SPA The Teen, $85 Help promote healthy skin and positive skin care habits with this therapeutic treatment specially designed for youthful skin. The facial cleans problem areas; education and home-care recommendations are included. A series of treatments is recommended for optimal results, 60 minutes (Mill Valley). 415.383.3223, evo-spa.com STELLAR SPA Skin Perfecting Purifying Facial, $120 A corrective, skin-brightening treatment to help diminish dark spots and blemishes. Ideal for all skin types in need of deep pore cleansing. Thorough exfoliation and extractions balance the skin; calming and nourishing tea tree, lavender, vitamin C and French green clay revitalize, 75 minutes (Corte Madera). 415.924.7300, stellarspa.com

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OCTOBER 2008

C O N V ERSAT ION

Man with a Mission The California Academy of Sciences reopens with Ross’s Bill Patterson as chairman BY J I M WO O D

GROWING UP IN WESTERN COLORADO BILL PATTERSON LOVED THE OUTDOORS “We’d go camping and I’d spend my

time looking at birds, fish, even insects,” he recalls. Some guys never entirely grow up. Currently, Patterson, 46, is chair of the board of trustees at the recently reopened 410,000-square-foot California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park. “Look at me now,” says the affable Harvard graduate (magna cum laude, ’84) and Stanford MBA (Arjay Miller Scholar, ’89). “Almost every day I’m surrounded by the Academy’s 20 million research specimens, which includes some 700,000 carefully pinned butterflies along with 38,000 live animals that include a colony of South African penguins that need feeding twice a day.” In his “real life,” Patterson—who lives in Ross with his wife, Elizabeth, or “Liebe,” a Wellesley biology grad, and their three children ages 10, 14 and 16—is a managing partner at the Mill Valley investment firm SPO Partners. As for the Academy’s other attractions, they include an undulating two-and-a-half-acre “living roof”; the all-new Steinhart

habitats surrounded by birds, butterflies and bats; and the new Morrison Planetarium whose brand new 30-minute state-of-theart exhibit is titled “Fragile Planet.” How did Patterson, a relative newcomer (“we’ve lived locally for 21 years”), become chairman of one of the Bay Area’s more prestigious boards? “After graduate school, we moved to Ross in 1995,” he recounts, “and spent lots of time outdoors in Marin’s open spaces and at the Bay Area Discovery Museum at Fort Baker.” Family visits led to involvement by both parents and, before

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OCTOBER 2008

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P H OTO: TIM P ORTER

Aquarium, featuring the world’s deepest living coral display; a four-story glass terrarium that has visitors walking through dense

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long, Patterson was on the museum’s board of trustees where he became board chairman. “After serving six years with the Discovery Museum, and observing firsthand the power of informal, out-of-school learning, in 2003 I was approached to join the board of the California Academy of Sciences.” He’s never looked back. “The combination of a place focused on research, education and serving the public around life sciences and conservation hit on so many of our interests,” Patterson says. “The chance to be involved in the transformation of an institution from a clean sheet of paper to an up-to-the-minute metropolitan asset and attraction was an extraordinary opportunity.” You and your family’s love of nature and science obviously connect with the Academy, but where does your Stanford MBA and investment experience contribute? The California Academy of Sciences has a strategy that can be measured

However, ours is an incredibly generous board

We also think the interaction of thoroughly

for performance and impact. It also has a board

and the entire Bay Area community of philan-

trained docents—there will be dozens of them

of trustees who provide guidance on strategy

thropists has stepped up in an exciting way.

on the floor at any one time—will be an excit-

and oversight and bring relationships and per-

A third challenge is one still before us: that is

ing aspect of the Academy. This will differ from

spective from other experiences to the manage-

to continue to invest in changing exhibits in a

just looking at a diorama, as there will be eas-

ment of this enterprise. What we have done

way that makes scientific developments fresh

ily identifiable individuals to answer questions

here is collectively invested nearly half a billion

and integrates them into our program. And

and discuss the settings with visitors. An excit-

dollars on the basis that we put that capital to

that will continue to be a challenge because

ing attraction will be the four-story, all-glass

work in ways that will have high social return.

we understand the need to advance scientific

terrarium we are calling the Rainforests of the

The Academy is a business, a very complicated

literacy in our nation. I am excited about our

World exhibit. It will have living plants and ani-

and interesting business with a nonprofit edu-

chances of making an impact here.

mals and, as visitors walk up a circular ramp,

What features of the recently reopened

they will see a flooded Amazonian rain forest;

In the last ten year process leading to the

Academy personally intrigue you? First, it is the

a forest floor from Borneo; then a Madagascar

reopening of the Academy which, to you, were

overall light and airy atmosphere the noted

understory, followed by a Costa Rican canopy

the three greatest challenges? The first hap-

Italian architect Renzo Piano incorporated into

at the top. Then visitors will enter a glass el-

pened before I was on the board—that was

the new structure. It is certainly not the dark

evator, which passes down through each level

the decision to take the Academy down to

and musty look so often associated with natural

to where they’ll exit and experience underwa-

the ground, then design and rebuild from

history museums. Then there is the consider-

ter views of the Rainforest. In truth, the entire

scratch while operating a scaled-down version

able daily live programming. An example here

California Academy of Sciences enterprise fas-

on Howard Street for three years. That was a

is when a biologist enters the two-story coral

cinates me, as I am sure it will the thousands

really bold and challenging decision. Few in-

reef tank to feed fish, he or she will be in scuba

and thousands who visit it in the coming years.

stitutions could or would do that, but it freed

gear and, through an underwater microphone,

It represents an incredible accomplishment by

the Academy from old restraints. Also, raising

be able to tell visitors what the food is, why

many, many people who have every right to be

the $488 million was a tremendous challenge.

fish like it, and other interesting anecdotes.

very proud.

cational mission.

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CLOCKWISE FROM OPPOSITE LEFT : The Renzo Piano-designed California Academy of Sciences has a light and airy interior; the Academy’s 2.5-acre “Living Roof,” planted with nine different native plants and wildﬂowers, has an easily-accessible observation deck; an underwater microphone allows biologists who enter Steinhart Aquarium tanks while feeding ﬁsh to communicate with visitors viewing the exhibit; the Academy’s African Hall features a colony of rare South African penguins.

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OCTOBER 2008

Organic

ROOTS The forward-thinking farmers of Marin S T O RY & P H O T O S BY T I M P O R T E R

L I FE

Star Route Farms, the oldest continually-certiﬁed organic farm in California.

ood fosters community. That’s what Mickey Murch says. He’s a young organic farmer from Bolinas, the tiny West Marin town that, as much as any place in California, embraced the practices of organic farming long before it was fashionable. His avowal is just three

OPPOSITE : Organic garlic

from Paradise Valley Produce. BELOW : Janet Brown and Marty Jacobsen of Allstar Organics, Lagunitas.

little words, but they encompass a huge idea: the connection between food and commu-

nity, between farmer and family, between land and table. Organic Marin: Recipes from Land to Table, the new book I coauthored with Farina Wong Kingsley (and produced by Marin Magazine), was inspired by that connection and by the many people who make it a daily reality here in Marin County. The following profiles of Marin’s organic farmers and ranchers were adapted from the book.

Allstar Organics Allstar Organics began in 1994 when Marty Jacobsen and Janet Brown planted what they called a “vineyard” of heirloom tomatoes in a sunny one-acre field next to their home in Lagunitas on the edge of Marin’s redwood forest. Today, that terraced field is filled with organic lavender, rosemary, spearmint, Thai basil, cilantro and other herbs that Janet dries and sells alone or mixed with salt. Sharing the field are 500 antique rosebushes, whose colorful petals Janet distills to make a delicately flavored rose sugar and the refreshing distilled floral waters known as hydrosols. A few years ago, Marty began working a 10-acre piece of land in Nicasio. There, he continues to grow tomatoes—20 varieties of heirlooms, cherries and others—and has had room to expand to other organic produce, including winter squash, watermelon, strawberries, cantaloupe, tomatillos, zucchini, eggplant and five kinds of beans. Marty is known among Bay Area chefs as an adventurous farmer willing to take a risk on an unproven crop. He grows specialty varieties for specific restaurants, such as shishito peppers for Slanted Door in San Francisco and rare types of chard such as erbette. Ever since they started, Janet and Marty have farmed organically. “We really believe in organic,” says Marty. “We never thought of doing it any other way. We farm because it is organic. It just seems like a very meaningful thing to do.” Janet has been a gardener all her life. “When Marty and I came to the point where we wanted to have our own business,” she says, “it had to be a farm.” And the name, Allstar Organics—how did that come about? “Well, we were trying to come up with a name, and we were stuck,” Janet recounts. “Then one day when we were talking about it, our son, Bo, came walking up the drive wearing his red-white-and-blue All-Star baseball uniform. And there it was!”

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ABOVE : Left, Kevin Lunny of Drakes Bay Family Farms, Point Reyes; right, Peter Martinelli of Fresh Run Farm, Bolinas

Drakes Bay Family Farms

Drakes Bay Oyster Farm), planted several acres of artichokes (which thrive in the cool, moist climate), and converted part

Kevin Lunny’s grandfather had no intention of getting into

of his beef herd to organic, seeing an opportunity to sell qual-

ranching when he helped his brother-in-law get a loan for a

ity, not quantity. “Surprisingly, what started out as an eco-

dairy farm on the Point Reyes Peninsula. But when the in-law

nomic driver turned out to be my deepest passion,” Lunny

turned out to be a ne’er-do-well, Joe Lunny, a San Francisco

says. “What organic ranching does for the land, for biodiver-

steamship executive, headed to Marin to see what he had in-

sity and for the local market is amazing. It’s awesome for a

advertently bought. He never returned to the city. Neither did

farmer to know who’s enjoying our food. That’s a blessing to

his son, Joe Lunny Jr. And neither did his grandson Kevin.

us, because those people are actually paying more money for

Today, Drakes Bay Family Farms raises organic cattle on its

healthy food, and that directly supports us.”

1,400 acres and, as the Historic G Ranch, is one of 15 historic ranches and dairies operating within the Point Reyes National Seashore, remnants of the huge dairy farms that were estab-

Fresh Run Farm

lished as far back as the 1850s.

If a young San Rafael man hadn’t ridden his Indian motor-

Drakes Bay Family Farms produces the only certified or-

cycle out to Bolinas one day in 1916 to fish for trout in Pine

ganic beef in Marin County. The 200 head of Hereford-Angus

Gulch Creek, this tiny seaside town, home to artists, writers

cows are raised in organic pastures bordering Drakes Estero,

and iconoclasts, might never have become the birthplace of

are fed organic feed before going to market, and are free of any

Marin’s organic farming movement.

growth hormones or other medicine used to ward off disease.

But Jordan Martinelli returned to Pine Gulch Creek again

The herd is closed. “We have not purchased a cow in 30 years,”

and again, drawn to the freshwater that flows year-round

says Lunny. “Every animal is born and raised on this ranch.”

against a rift in the notorious San Andreas Fault, and began

The Lunny family’s move from conventional to organic ranching began out of necessity. Like the owners of many

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Paradise Valley, where he set up a dairy operation.

small farms and ranches, the Lunnys were struggling. “The

That land, blessed with cake-like loam topsoil that runs 12

economics were getting tougher and tougher,” says Lunny.

feet deep or more, still produces food, but today it’s a cornuco-

There wasn’t enough income for our parents, much less my

pia of organic produce brought from the ground by the hands

family.” (He and his wife have triplets.) “It was a beautiful

of Peter Martinelli, the young trout fisherman’s grandson.

life, but it wasn’t a living.”

buying land. Eventually, he owned 500 acres in the aptly named

Fresh Run Farm sits on 240 acres that stretch from shaded

The family decided it needed to think differently. Lunny

bottomland to contoured slopes to hillsides wooded with old

took over an adjacent oyster business (the much-debated

groves of live oak. The farm ends on a ridgetop that abuts the

OCTOBER 2008

Point Reyes National Seashore and provides a view (on a fog-

Russian Banana, French, Yukon Gold, German Butterball,

free day) clear across Marin County to the spires of down-

Yellow Finn and Viking. And there’s more: Ozette, Carola,

town San Francisco.

Kennebec, Russet Norkotah, Mountain Rose, Charlotte,

Peter draws water from Pine Gulch Creek—which is still

Lakatte, Red Thum, White Rose and Katahdin.

a steelhead trout run—to grow just about every type of row-

David dry-farms his potatoes—as well as several varieties

crop vegetable, ranging from spring greens like lettuce and

of cherry and heirloom tomatoes—in the rich sandy loam that

arugula to summer potatoes to fall squash and winter arti-

is typical of northern Marin soil. Dry farming means that the

chokes. “The only things I can’t grow,” he says, “are peppers

crop is not irrigated during the season, but is instead nurtured

and tomatoes. Not enough heat.”

by the moisture held in the soil (and the summer fog). The

Fresh Run Farm is located upstream from two of Marin’s

result is a concentration of flavor, producing potatoes known

oldest organic farms, Paradise Valley Produce and Star Route

for their taste and texture, and tomatoes so sweet they could

Farms, both of which rely on water from Pine Gulch Creek.

be sold as candy. All in all, David has 26 acres under cultiva-

On the Martinelli property, organic farming is still a family

tion in several fields, including the potatoes, tomatoes and a

affair. Peter’s sister-in-law, Susan Martinelli, has a house on the

few other types of organic produce that he irrigates (squash,

land and, under the label Creekside Garden, produces a variety

lettuce, onions, melons and strawberries).

of jams and jellies, dried fruit and vegetables.

ABOVE : Left, Jessie

Kuhn of Marin Roots Farm, outside of Nicasio; right, David Little of Little Organic Farm, Tomales.

When he jumped into farming full time more than a dozen years ago, David knew organic was the way to go. “My

Little Organic Farm

marketing strategy was quality,” he says. “Organic just made sense. Besides, I don’t know how to do it any other way.”

David Little went organic even before he became a farmer.

Winters in Marin are too wet for growing potatoes, but

“When I was 10, my parents let me have a pumpkin patch at

David still serves local shoppers and chefs from the stock of

the side of the house,” he says. “It didn’t take me long to re-

exotic spuds he stores in dozens of 50-pound burlap bags

alize that fish emulsion is better than some miracle product”

kept in his well-weathered barn.

when it comes to making things grow. Today, David is a popular figure at farmers’ markets in Marin and San Francisco. It’s hard to miss him. He’s tall, gre-

Marin Roots Farm

garious, white-haired and surrounded by boxes of organic po-

Perched on a 10-acre upland rise that straddles the Marin-

tatoes grown on his farm near Tomales.

Sonoma county line, Marin Roots Farm is located in an agri-

David produces so many varieties of potato that his crop list reads like a United Nations seating chart: Rose Finn Apple,

cultural neighborhood that represents the entire cross section of Marin’s farm community.

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OCTOBER 2008

Down below is the large Volpi Dairy, whose milking barn hums long into the night; next to it is the smaller Andante

Nebraska, of visiting the farm and eating alfalfa fresh from the field. They really stuck in my mind.”

Dairy, producer of artisan goat’s and cow’s milk cheeses; to the west are the fields of County Line Harvest and La Tercera farms (the latter under the till of Annabelle Lenderink, sales

Paradise Valley Produce

manager for organic pioneer Star Route Farms); and across

As the social turmoil of the sixties gave way to the New Age

the highway to the south are the picturesque organic olive

revolution of the seventies, many young people in search of

orchards of the McEvoy Ranch.

community and a simpler rural life went “back to the land.”

But when owner Jesse Kuhn first saw the land for his

BELOW : Albert Straus of Straus Family Creamery, Marshal. BOTTOM : Left, Sandy and Dennis Dierks of Paradise Valley Produce, Bolinas; right, Warren Weber of Star Route Farms, Bolinas.

farm—which he found by putting a “farmland wanted” ad in

Eventually, the hard work and economic realities of farm-

the local newspaper—he wasn’t thinking of the quality of his

ing drove most of the back-to-the-landers back to the city. Not

neighbors. He wanted good soil and enough water to grow

Dennis. He stayed, outlasting the other members of a collec-

all year. “I could tell the soil was good here,” he says, “be-

tive who in 1972 had bought 50 acres in Paradise Valley, a

cause the grass and the weeds were five feet tall.”

green wedge of land tucked between the San Andreas Fault

Today, six years later, that overgrown field is brimming with rows of leafy greens, beets, fava beans, various types of tomatoes and multicolored carrots, broccoli rabe, chicory, chard and berries.

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and Pine Gulch Creek on the Bolinas peninsula, and became one of Marin’s pioneering organic farmers. Today Dennis and his wife, Sandy, are still at it. They’ve raised five children on this rich bottomland, living in a beauti-

Kuhn, at 33, has come a long way in a

ful home they built under the tall alders that drape the creek

short time. He founded Marin Roots Farm af-

and working the deep soil of Paradise Valley to produce 14

ter studying sustainable agriculture in college,

varieties of organic lettuce; spinach, kale, and chard; several

working first as a landscaper and then putting

varieties of squash and potatoes and an aromatic assortment

in apprentice time at other farms. The first sea-

of leeks and onions.

son on the land was a rough one: maxed-out

Dennis has always placed stewardship of the land fore-

credit cards, repairs on the aging barn, fields of

most. “I didn’t want to use chemicals,” he says. “We were

discarded debris (“I was always cutting buried

starting a family, and we wanted good, clean food.”

barbed wire off the tiller”).

Dennis Dierks, then a commercial artist, was one of them.

Over the years he has “learned how to work with natural

But persistence paid off and helped fulfill a

systems rather than against them” and has become a local

longing he’d had since childhood for his own

expert in using natural means, such as capturing microbes

farm. “My grandmother had a green thumb,”

from the air, to feed his soil. “We get our whole nutrient sys-

he says. “I have vivid memories of her farm in

tem within five miles of the farm,” he says. “A farm can’t be

OCTOBER 2008

sustainable if you’re trucking in stuff from all over. Our major

After a chatty tour of the farmers’ market in Point Reyes

focus is trying to create our own nutrient system.”

Station, where all the food is grown within 20 miles of the

Paradise Valley benefits from Pine Gulch Creek’s year-round flow, a rarity in most parts of Marin. And Dennis’s efforts to

town, the royal couple dined with Warren and a group of other local farmers at Star Route.

protect the annual steelhead trout runs in the creek earned his farm California’s first certification as “salmon safe.” After 30 years of growing organic food, Dennis says he’s

Straus Family Creamery

“still improving.” He sells most of his crop through local farm-

Straus Family Creamery is a model of a modern organic

ers’ markets. “That’s the best you can get,” he says, “dealing

dairy. For its first half-century, starting in 1941, when Bill and

directly with the people who are going to eat your food.”

Ellen Straus began dairy farming in Marshall on the shores of Tomales Bay, the Straus farm was a conventional small dairy,

Star Route Farms

selling its milk through cooperatives to larger producers. By the 1990s, with milk prices falling and the industry

Warren Weber has been called, at various points in his farm-

shrinking, the family faced difficult financial choices. The fu-

ing life, “the father of organic farming in California,” one of

ture of their farm was at stake. Ellen Straus was already an

the “Grand Old Men of Food,” an “organic farming icon” and,

environmental force in Marin County—she was a founder of

most often, an “organic pioneer.”

the Marin Agricultural Land Trust, the farmland preserva-

It’s true that, as founder of the Star Route Farms, the oldest

tion group formed in the 1970s to block urban development

continually certified organic farm in California, he’s deserving

of West Marin—so when son Albert suggested the dairy be-

of all those labels. But pluck them away and beyond the icon is

come organic and make its own products, the family readily

a man who still likes to get his hands dirty doing what he loves:

made the leap.

growing clean, healthy, tasty food in a way that connects the earth to the farmer and the farmer to the community.

In 1994, the 660-acre farm became the first organic dairy west of the Mississippi River. Today, its 300 Jersey-Holstein

That has been Warren’s mission since 1974, when as

cows produce enough milk (about eight gallons each per day)

a young former college professor he bought a plot of land

for Straus to churn out not just its own brand of milk but

alongside the Bolinas Lagoon, set up house in a train caboose

also organic yogurt, ice cream and butter, all sold mostly to

and started farming with a horse-drawn plow. Organic from

retail stores, but also to discriminating local restaurants such

the first seed he planted, Warren initially sold to a scatter-

as Chez Panisse in Berkeley and the French Laundry in the

ing of local markets and health food stores, outposts of the

Napa Valley. Straus milk is also the basis for the nationally

fresh food revolution that was just beginning. The woman be-

famous artisan cheeses made by Cowgirl Creamery of Point

hind that revolution, Chez Panisse creator Alice Waters, gave

Reyes Station.

Star Route a big boost in the mid-seventies when she asked Warren to grow her signature mesclun salad mix for her.

This type of marketing, which connects the farm directly to the end product, has helped Straus survive and keep alive

Over the years, he acquired more land, and today Star

Marin County’s tradition of family farms. Straus continues

Route has 100 acres in Bolinas, 40 of them used for growing,

to innovate, both in finding new ways to use its milk—like

and another plot of land in the Coachella Valley, where the

Barista Milk, made especially for espresso machines—and in

warm winter permits growing food year-round. From these

developing sustainable farming practices.

fields, Star Route produces an array of lettuces and a host of

Straus powers its dairy and the family home by turning ma-

other leafy greens, seasonal vegetables of all types and, in the

nure from its cows into methane, saving as much as $6,000 a

greenhouse, edible flowers.

month in utility costs and preventing the methane from escap-

Well known among local chefs and close readers of menus,

ing into the atmosphere, where it would be damaging to the

Star Route had its moment in the international spotlight dur-

ozone layer. Two years ago, Straus became the first certified or-

ing a 2005 visit to West Marin organic farms by Britain’s

ganic manufacturer in the nation to verify that all its products

Prince Charles and his wife, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.

are uncontaminated by genetically modified organisms.

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OCTOBER 2008

AU TO

IF CARS COULD TALK… MARIN COLLECTOR’S VINTAGE VEHICLES HAVE STORIES TO TELL BY J I M WO O D

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OCTOBER 2008

P H OTO S T I M P O RT ER

Many successful men collect classic cars.

Possibly it’s their way

of connecting with the past, or reconnecting with their past. Some collections — especially of those burly so-called “muscle car” Fords, Dodges and Plymouths of the late ’60s and early ’70s — might be a way of affirming the collector’s, shall we say, manhood. Marin’s Tom Price has a showroom full of more than two dozen beautiful vintage (and expensive) cars for another reason. “I love cars for the stories they have to tell,” he says, a grin crossing his boyish 64-year-old face. As examples, he points proudly to an exact version of the 1960 Ferrari V-12 California Spider that Matthew Broderick drove in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and to the same Aston Martin DB2 convertible that Tippi Hedren cruised along Bodega Bay in Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds.

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OCTOBER 2008

“The fact is, I just love cars,” Price says. “I worked my

Left, chromium hood ornament of Price’s 1941 Packard station wagon, which he says has spent 50 of its nearly 70 years in California, mostly near Lake Tahoe; right, grillwork and headlamps of Price’s supercharged 1932 Alfa Romeo, which won the 1,000-mile Mille Miglia the year it was built.

way through University of Colorado selling cars; I was with Ford Motor Company for eight years and bought my first dealership in 1976.” Today, his company Price Family

year-old Alfa Romeo 8C Supercharged 2300—to the Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races in Laguna Seca. Here are of five of Tom Price’s favorite vintage vehicles and their stories:

Dealerships owns the Aston Martin, Infiniti, Jaguar, Land Rover, Toyota and Volvo outlets in Marin County, as well as

1941 Packard 120 Station Wagon, “The Logs.” “There were

two dealerships in Sacramento and another in Sunnyvale.

only 68 of this particular model ever built,” says Price. “And

Price and his wife of 36 years, Gwen, have lived in

this one has spent most of its nearly 70 years in California,

Belvedere for 32 years, where they raised their two sons,

primarily in and around Lake Tahoe.” The engine is a 120-

Greg and Nick.

horsepower straight-8, the buttercup yellow paint is the

The Belvedere resident’s infatuation with the automo-

same color the car had coming off the Packard assembly

bile goes beyond collecting them—he also loves driving

line in early 1941 (original price: $1,466), and the interi-

them. “I began racing vintage cars 25 years ago,” he says,

or’s highly varnished overhead looks like the interior of a

“and since then I’ve competed in probably 600 races and

handcrafted wooded boat that never came close to water.

rallies.” Price has never suffered a serious car-related in-

“‘The Logs’ was a lodge on the lake,” Price says. “I bought

jury or accident in all that time. “But I’ve had several close

the car seven years ago from Dave Olson of Tiburon.” Price

calls,” he says, looking for a wooden table to knock on.

drives the car regularly. “Most of the time, it’s to picnics in

“Let’s hope it continues that way.”

West Marin and the wine country.”

A high point, so to speak, came in 2006 when Price hit

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160 mph in his 1960 Ferrari GTO in the famed four-mile,

1932 Alfa Romeo 8C Supercharged 2300. Pressed to name

14-turn Road America race at Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. Last

his favorite car, Price doesn’t hide behind the old “that’s

month, Price brought three cars—including his beloved 76-

like naming my favorite child” cliché. “That’s easy,” he

OCTOBER 2008

OPPOSITE : Side view of the hood ornament from a fully restored 1941 Packard station wagon that originally cost $1,466. THIS PAGE , CLOCKWISE FROM UPPER LEFT : The tension-sealing gas cap of Price’s prized 1932 Alfa Romeo; a front view of the same car; the 1941 Packard station wagon known as “The Logs” from its days in Tahoe; the same car’s trademark wheel, hubcap and fender assembly.

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OCTOBER 2008

THIS PAGE , CLOCKWISE FROM RIGHT : Collector Tom Price, 64, in front of his 1956 MercedesBenz gull-wing; Price’s 1948 Jaguar three-position drophead convertible that actor Clark Gable wanted with left-hand steering; a 1995 McLaren three-seater with 627 horsepower capable of doing 231 mph; vents on the hood of 1948 Jaguar convertible; reﬂections on the same car’s chromium landau bar. OPPOSITE : The 1995 McLaren’s center-positioned steering wheel.

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OCTOBER 2008

says. “It’s my 1932 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300.” Price tells this

most participants trailered their vintage cars to the start-

story about his prized Alfa Romeo: “From 1952 through

ing line. “But not Denis Richardson,” he says.

1989, this particular car was owned by an English gentle-

Price bought his Alfa Romeo (one of 200 built, most of

man named Denis Richardson, and he personally raced it

which are still around) from Richardson in 1989. It had

numerous times.”

won the Mille Miglia road race in 1932 and in 1995 Price

But Richardson had a unique tradition when it came

drove it in the Mille Miglia Retrospective. He’s also driven

to the famed Mille Miglia retrospective rally. According to

it three times in Martin Swig’s 1,000-mile tour of Northern

Price, the original Mille Miglia was a daring road race that

California known as the California Mille.

started near Brescia, a midsize Italian city south of Milan, and twisted 1,000 miles through the Tuscan countryside

1948 Jaguar Three-Position Drophead Convertible.

and various town squares before returning to Brescia.

“Sometime after World War II,” Price says, “the story goes

“The first race was in 1927,” he says, “and, save for a few

that the actor Clark Gable and Sir William Lyons, the

years in the late 1930s, continued through World War II

founder of [what became] Jaguar Cars Ltd., were looking

until a disastrous crash in 1957 killed two racers and 11

at the European version of this beautiful car.” He pauses.

spectators.” The race was revived three years later as a

“Then Gable rubbed his chin and said something like, ‘I’d

noncompetitive rally.

love to see an American version of this beauty, one with

“Richardson drove this car over the same Mille Miglia

the steering wheel on the left-hand side.” Soon thereafter,

course three times, starting in 1982,” says Price. ”Each time

125 similar Jaguars were handcrafted and Gable became

he and his wife would leave their London home in this 50-

the proud owner of the first one to reach America (not the

year-old car, journey to Southampton, where it was loaded

one Price now owns).

on a ferry, then drive over 600 miles to Brescia, compete

“Note that it has a classic chrome landau bar support-

in the 1,000-mile rally, then pack up their things and mo-

ing the convertible top and ‘suicide doors,’” says Price.

tor back to London.” Even in the 1980s, Price points out,

“These open from the front, into the wind if you’re driving.”

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OCTOBER 2008

ABOVE LEFT :

The overall look is reminiscent of the high style of the

“named for a famous English estate where, over the

Grillwork on the 1965 Aston Martin similar to the one James Bond drove in Goldﬁnger; ABOVE RIGHT : A full front view of the same car. OPPOSITE : Front detail on the 1965 Aston Martin with less than 25,000 miles on its odometer.

1930s: “Following the war, England was anxious to get

years, many sport car rallies and races have occurred.”

something into production, to rev up its war-torn econ-

The 43-year-old car has less than 25,000 actual miles

omy, so design-wise they pretty much picked up where

on its odometer and the leather interior, in perfect condi-

they left off.”

tion, is original (the exterior has been repainted once).

One innovation this car includes is a Trafficator, a

“Only 19 of these were built with left-hand drive,” Price

bar-like precursor of the turn signal that was activated

says. While he’s reluctant to discuss the value of his cars,

electrically from a switch on the steering wheel. The

sources familiar with this model say it’s worth between

“Three-Position” moniker reflects the three control set-

$255,000 and $425,000.

tings for the car’s convertible top—fully closed; sheltering the rear seat passengers only; and fully open.

1995 McLaren V-12 Three Seater. With 627 horsepower,

This Jaguar was first purchased in Paris for the equiv-

this car is widely known to be capable of 231 mph and of

alent of $1,200. Price bought it in 1988 sight unseen

reaching 60 mph in 3.2 seconds. “For over 10 years, from

through a classified ad in the Los Angeles Times.

1994 to 2005, this was the fastest street-legal car in the world,” says Price.

1965 Aston Martin DB-5 Convertible. “This car may look

Price’s McLaren is the street version of the famous

innocent,” says Price, “but it’s the convertible version of

English race car that won Le Mans in ’96 and ’97. “It has

the customized car James Bond drove in Goldfinger, the

the bones of a race car. Only 64 of these cars were ever

one with saws whirling out of the wheels and machine

built,” says Price, and their owners, according to him,

guns poking out from the parking lights.”

have totaled four of them.

This model’s six-cylinder overhead cam engine is simi-

The seating configuration in the car is unusual. The

larly ferocious—300 horsepower, with a top speed of 180

driver sits in the middle, with seats for passengers on

mph. It was custom-built at an Aston Martin factory out-

each side—not only providing the ultimate steering pro-

side London for Charline Humphreys Breeden, grand-

spective but making it easy to drive on either side of the

daughter of Charles Boettcher and an heiress to the Great

road. “The engine is made by BMW, the body is of car-

Western Sugar fortune. “She was living in Denver, where

bon fiber and the engine compartment is lined with gold

the Boettcher name is on several landmarks,” says Price,

foil, similar to what was used on the Moon Lander,” says

“but she died at 43, just a few years after buying this car.”

Price. “It’s a super car; I love it.”

At first glance the car’s color looks black, but it’s actually a rich, dark green. “It’s ‘Goodwood Green,’ says Price,

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OCTOBER 2008

Price does acknowledge that this McLaren is worth “just under” $3 million.

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OCTOBER 2008

family fusion BY P. J . B R E M I ER

MARIN

P H OTO S B A R B A R A R I E S

OCTOBER 2008

H OME

ARCHITECT:

Kyle Thayer, Thayer Architecture CONTRACTOR:

Bob Kantner, Dominican Real Estate INTERIOR DESIGNER:

Eugenia Jesberg, EJ Interior Design LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT:

Diane Licht LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR:

MARIN

Phil Walters

OCTOBER 2008

ionel Achuck, son of a Chinese father and a Caucasian mother, has always lived a life that celebrates the beauty of both cultures. Born in San Francisco but reared in New York City, the Tiburon real estate investor and developer commuted for years with his parents between the two cities, spending vacations and long weekends with his extended Chinese family in their Sea Cliff home.

This same fusion of Occidental and Oriental, of tradition and modernity, is reflect-

ed in both the Tiburon and the Hawaii home where Achuck now lives with his wife, Stacy, and three kids: Tyler, 5, Aiden, 4, and Greenley, 10 months. “I like that our children are surrounded by both of their heritages in the environment where they live,” says Stacy, who owns the Mill Valley Baby & Kids Company furnishings and accessories store. “The Chinese pieces bring history, tradition and culture into our home and tell a story to both our children and friends of who we are. Design-wise it has allowed us to blend old and new together, making the house feel comfortable and livable.” The couple moved to Marin five years ago with then-infant Tyler, drawn by the local emphasis on family and nearness to the water. “Besides, my sister (chef and cookbook author Farina Wong Kingsley) had just moved to Tiburon,” Achuck adds, “and we got a good education (about the area) from her. We’re fortunate to have our extended family close by, in the city, so we often all get together and barbecue at our home and enjoy the sunny summer weather of Marin as opposed to the fog in the city at this time of year.”

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OCTOBER 2008

Their recently completed five-bedroom, 7,000-squarefoot Tiburon home is transitional-style and very American.

a forgiving color for the living room carpet and added soft rugs for playtime in the family room.

“It’s big with an open floor plan… and artificial turf,”

The house also manages to be eco-friendly, with a large

Lionel says with a laugh. It also has a library, a gym, and

solar panel system, deep-set eaves to shade windows, an-

family, media and play rooms.

cient reclaimed mahogany for flooring, dual flush toilets,

Mill Valley interior designer Eugenia Jesberg select-

and CaesarStone countertops. “I’ve been in the building in-

ed contemporary furnishings from both Holly Hunt and

dustry and I’ve seen so much waste,” Lionel Achuck says.

McGuire, but included subtle Eastern suggestions such

“My philosophy is if you can do it, you should, and it bene-

as heavy wood beams, a soothing sense of darkness and

fits the kids; we can educate them about living healthfully.”

Asian artwork. To make the house child-friendly, “we kept

Outside, the couple wanted drip irrigation and native,

things simple,” Jesberg says. She covered kitchen seat

deer-resistant and drought-tolerant plants for an easy-to-

cushions in designer outdoor fabric, selected wool rugs in

maintain landscape along with that artificial turf. “I love

MARIN

OPPOSITE: Lionel

and Stacy Achuck with children Tyler, Aiden and Greenley. ABOVE: Family room and kitchen open to outdoor patio with barbecue.

OCTOBER 2008

it,” Lionel says. “The kids and the dog love to run around

the south—and I love that the house disappears into the

on it and it doesn’t get destroyed and it stays dry. It drains

hillside because of the colors we chose.”

quickly, so when we blow up the waterslides it doesn’t turn into a mud pit.”

Besides family parties and informal get-togethers, the couple hosts cocktail parties at home for friends and

The property “is a great place for entertaining,” he

supporters of the various boards Stacy serves on: she’s

adds, “with lots of space for kids to play and lots of pri-

president of Bookmarks, the children’s program at the

vacy, and yet it’s so close to everything. There are beauti-

Belvedere–Tiburon Library; co-chair of the Belvedere-

ful sweeping views—from Napa in the north to Oakland in

Hawthorne Nursery School’s Annual Kitchen Tour; and event chair of Southern Marin Mothers’ Club.

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OCTOBER 2008

LEFT: Outdoor dining with view

of East Bay cities and the San Francisco Bay. BELOW: Kitchen with marble counter on center island; artiﬁcial turf proves to be easy to care for and attractive.

The house manages to be eco-friendly, with a large solar panel system, deep-set eaves to shade windows, ancient reclaimed mahogany for flooring, dual flush toilets and CaesarStone countertops. They wanted that same built-in social comfort, with

“My family has always preferred Hawaii to another vaca-

privacy but also proximity, when they purchased their

tion spot like Mexico,” he says. “We have no connection

Hawaii home in 1991.

there, but we do in Hawaii.” Hawaiians have a term for extended family: ‘ohana,

IN THE ‘OHANA SPIRIT

which means there’s always a place to stay or room at the

In the early 1900s, Lionel’s great-grandfather immigrated

table for family. Traditional Chinese families are similarly

from China to Hawaii. His grandfather was born there and

inclusive, Lionel points out: it’s not uncommon for grand-

all his older relatives have lived there at some point. His

parent, parents, children, aunts and uncles to all live to-

extended family still maintains ties to close friends there.

gether. All homes, even vacation homes, are considered

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OCTOBER 2008

“family” homes. “They’re open to everyone in the fami-

Design Center and other items spotted in the city’s antique

ly,” he says. “It’s unusual in today’s society, but it’s what I

shops. “Within two days he had everything in place, in-

grew up with and what I’m used to.”

cluding pictures in the picture frames and beautiful flower

The Achucks’ Hawaiian home is on the windward side

arrangements,” Lionel says.

of Oahu in the town of Lanikai, about a half hour from

The result is a sophisticated residence with tasteful an-

the airport and from Honolulu (where they like to head to

tiques, light colors and lots of glass. It might be considered

“Chinatown for some good, authentic Chinese food”), and

an “adult” home, but Lionel insists it’s not. “It’s very work-

only minutes to the town of Kailua for quick shopping.

able with kids. It’s furnished nicely, but nothing is that

While it has one of the top-rated beaches in the United

fragile and it’s easy to maintain.”

States, Lanikai retains a local feel. “I love the relaxed life-

Throughout the house, seating areas encourage relax-

style and the pace of life there,” Stacy says. “You can slow

ing, visiting and the enjoyment of views, which include

down and truly relax since everyone is so easygoing. We

two bird sanctuary islands just yards offshore. “I love the

are able to be in paradise with all the amenities of a city

house with all of its big windows and postcard-picture

within a short drive.”

views,” Stacy says.

Their contemporary-style beachfront home has ev-

The difference in the “color of the water is the first thing

erything they wanted: an open floor plan, a phenomenal

you notice between San Francisco Bay and the water off

view, a large courtyard for extra parking, a separate two-

Lanikai,” Lionel adds. “The water views in Hawaii are very

bedroom caretaker villa and, when they bought it, a neigh-

peaceful, with a different blue and a horizon of all water.”

borhood still undiscovered by celebrities and tourists.

LEFT: Lanikai Beach ABOVE: Achuck’s

home in Lanikai on the windward side of Oahu.

And while “it has to be a really warm day” for the chil-

They left the interior decor choices to Richard Achuck,

dren to be able to go tubing in Tiburon behind the fam-

Lionel’s uncle. “We turned over the keys to him said ‘do

ily powerboat without a wetsuit, in Hawaii they can swim

it.’” The elder Achuck shipped everything from the main-

year-round. “It’s the big activity,” Lionel says. “There are

land, including Chinese heirlooms from the family home in

many fun places for the kids to go to in Hawaii, but they

Sea Cliff, contemporary pieces found at the San Francisco

love playing in the sand on the beach the most.”

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OCTOBER 2008

J O U R NEY

Dancers outﬁtted in vintage costumes trace the roots of tango at Rojo Tango at the Faena Hotel + Universe. 96

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OCTOBER 2008

MAP C REATED BY TIM REED

TWOTO

TANGO Argentina lures the visitor with promises of sultry dance

BY J U LI E KELLER | P H OTO S BY KLI NT CALL AG HAN

OPPOSITE : A dancer’s bright smile and sparkling costume light up a party in Cartagena; THIS PAGE : Reproductions of paintings by Colombian artist Fernando Botero hang on the wall of a gift shop.

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OCTOBER 2008

Professional dancers lead private tango lessons at the Faena Hotel + Universe. OPPOSITE, FROM LEFT: Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires is located at the base of busy Avenida Corrientes and the iconic Obelisco; since 1897, the San Telmo Market has been a mecca for locals looking to stock their shelves with fresh food; Argentina is known for its succulent grass-fed beef, making the carcineria booth a popular stop for visitors to the San Telmo Market.

The quiet din of well-dressed diners sipping malbec and nibbling on succulent Argentine beef is interrupted by the haunting strains of a keyboard. A spotlight suddenly shines, focusing on a whitejacketed piano player, then expands to illuminate his fellow musicians, who join in with accordion, upright bass, violin and drums. The melody is magnetic. Slowly couples dressed fifties-style drift onto the stage and begin moving to the music. So begins another night of tango, the sultry dance born 200 years ago on the streets of Buenos Aires and still very much alive in this colorful South American metropolis. The allure of that singularly Latin dance was one reason my boyfriend and I made the lengthy trip to Buenos Aires. We also were drawn by its cosmopolitan character, the strength of the U.S. dollar in South America and the below-equator location, making it an ideal winter escape. Once we’d arrived, our first encounter with the dance was the spectacular Rojo Tango show at Faena Hotel + Universe, a stylish retreat in the city’s renovated Puerto Madero district, which straddles the Río de la Plata. The Faena, designed by Alan Faena and Philippe Starck, attracts hip, well-heeled travelers, but tourists of all stripes fill the audience at Rojo Tango, which traces the roots of the sensual dance from its brothel beginnings to the modern stylings of nuevo tango. Though entranced by the performance, I was also slightly terrified. My dancing skills are a two on a scale of 10, and we were scheduled

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OCTOBER 2008

100

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for a private tango lesson the next morning at the Faena.

action, so we set off for San Telmo, one of the oldest bar-

My worries were misplaced, though. After 45 minutes, I

rios in Buenos Aires.

had the basic steps down, and when my instructor took

There, history comes alive on the cobblestone streets,

my hand and guided me across the dance floor to con-

as vendors hawk their wares and street performers draw

clude our session, I discovered my inner Ginger — Rogers,

crowds. The area is chock-full of tango parlors, with all-

that is. (Plus, tango is a dance led almost entirely by the

day and all-night dancing. Dancers dressed to the nines

male, so it’s nearly impossible for a woman with a skilled

also perform in Plaza Dorrego, the main square, much

partner to make a complete fool of herself.) With our

to the pleasure of tango-hungry tourists. We visited on a

tango legs tentatively in place, we were ready to see it in

Sunday when the Feria de San Telmo, a weekly street fair

OCTOBER 2008

and flea market replete with crafts, jewelry and antiques,

in the city. A onetime hangout for literary and art luminar-

was under way.

ies — Jorge Luis Borges, Federico García Lorca and Benito

The San Telmo Market (961 Defensa) is also a captivat-

Quinquela Martín are among its alumni — it is now the site

ing treat. Opened in 1897, this vaulted-ceiling farmers’-mar-

of La Academia Nacional del Tango (the National Academy

ket-style hall is filled with locals who navigate amid throngs

of Tango), where visitors can explore the roots of the dance,

of tourists to shop at the stalls of butchers, produce grocers

take classes and watch professionals perform.

and even vintage clothiers. It is a must-do on any Buenos

Many of the city’s late-night milongas, or tango dance

Aires itinerary. Afterward, we sipped midafternoon café con

halls, are in San Telmo. Clubs that offer a full meal and a

leche at Café Tortoni (Av. de Mayo 825), the oldest cafe

show and even sometimes pre-dinner tango lessons include

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ABOVE FROM LEFT :

Crumbling, ivycovered mausoleums mark the ﬁnal resting place for several notable Argentines at La Recoleta Cemetery; the cemetary’s skyline.

OCTOBER 2008

101

El Querandí (Peru 302), Esquina Carlos Gardel (Carlos Gardel 3200) and El Viejo Almacén (Balcarce 799 and Independencia). More adventurous dancers can find hidden, less touristy gems, where tango aficionados of all ages never leave the dance floor, through El Tangauta (eltangauta. com), a monthly tango publication. Beyond tango, Buenos Aires is a haven for shoppers and lovers of good food and wine. The perfect place to enjoy all three is the Palermo neighborhood, most notably Palermo Viejo, a bigger, greener, more charming version of Greenwich Village. Once a run-down warehouse district, this neighborhood is now home to numerous outdoor cafes and some of the city’s hottest boutiques, restaurants and bars. It is impossible to leave Palermo without arms laden with packages. I picked up leather riding boots from Fosca (Gurruchaga 1726) and several pairs of jeans from Rapsodia (El Salvador 4757). For a walk through history—literally—in Buenos Aires there’s no better place than La Recoleta Cemetery, where the iconic Eva Perón and many other well-known Argentines are buried. La Recoleta is a city of the dead, filled with expansive avenues and elaborate marble mausoleums replete with statues. We spent hours traversing the picturesque walkways and were kept company by a friendly band of feral cats that live in the cemetery. Back among the living, we rested our feet and refreshed our spirits at La Biela (Av. Quintana 596), the largest cafe in Recoleta and an ideal place to sit outdoors, sip wine and enjoy the hustle-bustle of a city that still retains all the charms that have earned it the moniker “the Paris of South America.”

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Where to stay Thanks to its cultural and commercial attractions and a still-weak peso, Buenos Aires has a thriving tourism market, drawing visitors from around the globe. Here is a sampling of accommodation options for travelers. Alvear Palace Hotel

Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires

alvearpalace.com

fourseasons.com/buenosaires

This palatial Recoleta retreat has been an elegant

This luxe Recoleta property includes a spa (try

escape for kings, heads of state and celebrities

the Porteño Massage, set to tango music to get

since 1932. It now features a new spa.

you in the mood) and a heated outdoor saline pool. On Saturdays, the elegant Le Dôme Bar features

Faena Hotel + Universe

a tango show.

faenahotelanduniverse.com Housed in a historic former grain building in the posh

InterContinental Buenos Aires

Puerto Madero district, Faena boasts an outdoor

buenos-aires.intercontinental.com

inﬁnity pool, various restaurants, and a gym and spa.

Located in the ﬁnancial district, the hotel is

Private tango classes are available.

within walking distance of San Telmo.

OPPOSITE FROM LEFT :

Street performer; Palermo shopping district. BELOW : The Puerto Madera Bridge straddles Rio de la Plata.

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103

Ladera Winery. right: entrance to Flora Springs Winery & Vineyards.

Exploring

A Napa Valley History Tour

GHOST WINERIES BY M I M I TOW L E WITH OCTOBER UPON US, it’s only fitting to remem-

ber the “ghost wineries” from Napa Valley’s past. Ghost wineries are those 700-or-so estates that were built (and mostly abandoned) in the Napa Valley before Prohibition and the phylloxera epidemic of the early 1900s. Unfortunately, the Napa Valley Land Trust is no longer offering its annual ghost winery tour, but many of the wineries themselves are still there to explore. One example is Ladera Vineyards, owned and operated by Pat Stotesbery, a longtime board member of the Wine Institute, founder and former president of the Howell Mountain Vintners and Growers Association, and current president of the Napa Valley Vintners Association. During the remodeling of Ladera, which he purchased as Chateau Woltner in 2000, Stotesbery made sure to preserve as much as possible from the original winery, Nouveau Medoc, built in 1886 by French partners Jean Brun and W. J. Chaix. “Essentially everything you see at Ladera that’s made out of wood is recycled from the original building,” he points out. “When people (today) go on a tour I think they are pretty impressed with the forethought of construction methodologies used in a time without electricity.” That includes walls that are 30 inches thick and still up to county code, despite having been built 125 years ago; a structure built into a hillside so that three floors were all accessible by auto or wagon; and use of gravity (liquid flows from third floor to first) in lieu of pumps. Here’s a chronological look at some other erstwhile wineries and their current incarnations. All are open to the public, though some require that you call ahead if you want to visit the property via a private tasting.

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1840

Russian fur trader Gustave Niebaum founded Inglenook winery, which earned international accolades within 10 years. Today the property is home to Rubicon Estate.

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

Get physical, get historical, get acquainted

Beyond the Wineries Tiffany MacNeil has been exploring the trails of the wine country for over a decade.

PREMIUM HIKES Burn those wine country calories on these top-rated trails BY M I M I TOW L E WEEKENDS IN WINE COUNTRY are usually all about eating and drinking.

For those who need some activity to balance the indulgence, here are some top-flight hikes suggested by Tiffany MacNeil, activities manager at Calistoga Ranch. MacNeil has lived in the wine country for over 10 years and been professionally leading hikes for seven, so she’s got the 411 on area treks. All day (10 miles or more). Two options in Robert Louis Stevenson State Park, located on Highway 29 about eight miles out of Calistoga: Palisades Trail, or a hike to the top of Mount St. Helena. Both are accessible from the entrance to the park; the trailheads are across the road from each other at the same location.

1861

While Charles Krug built his namesake winery, the Mondavi

1870

Villa Miravalle, built by Tiburcio Parrott,

family put it on the map. In 1965 Robert Mondavi

is now Spring Mountain Vineyard,

broke away from the family business to start the

which has been making wines under

ﬁrst new large-scale winery to be established in

the SMV label since 1968.

the valley since before Prohibition.

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

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OCTOBER 2008

105

the Robert Louis Stevenson sign, turn left and follow the path to the top. The first mile is in

that rises from the valley floor above the

the woods and shaded; the rest is exposed—so

town of Calistoga. Rated one of the best hikes

bring sunscreen. The trail winds up the moun-

in Napa by the New York Times, it’s one of

tain, with great views all the way. Take a snack

MacNeil’s favorites too. Start in early morning

or picnic for the top and enjoy the 360-degree

or late afternoon (for the shorter turnaround

views before heading down. (Calistoga)

hike to Table Rock) to see the ultimate light show on the ancient band of igneous rocks.

Shady Hikes

Best as a one-way hike, which requires a car

Redwood Trail at Bothe State Park Entrance

at each end, but if you turn around at Table

on Highway 29, a few miles north of St.

Rock it’s 4.4 miles round trip; or turn back at

Helena’s Main Street. Drive or bike into the

Holm’s Place, an old homestead, and it’s 12.2

park, past the history museum, and start on the

miles. (Calistoga)

trail at the signage on the right. Walk under redwoods and past ferns along Ritchey Creek,

1882

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Mount St. Helena Earn (or burn) that five-

which runs all year long. The first loop extends

course dinner by climbing the tallest peak

two miles, while other well-marked trails can

(4,343 feet) in the Bay Area. It’s a 10-mile round

be accessed for longer hikes, with a trail past

trip and a 2,000-foot-climb to the top. From

the summer home of the Hitchcock family, who

It is said to have cost Bordeaux’s Michel Reybier of Château Cos-d’ Estournel up to $150 million to purchase the historic

1884

The red barn used

Chateau Montelena winery this summer.

by the historic Adamson

Funny, given that at the famed Judgment of

Winery is home to Frog’s

Paris competition, a 1973 chardonnay from

Leap, established in

this very vineyard beat out French bottlings in

1994 and famous for its

a blind taste test.

organically grown wine.

OCTOBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTO CREDIT: PREVIOUS PAGE HIKER/NEENA CUNAT; FLORA SPRINGS IMAGE/LINDSAY GARVEY

Palisades Trail Starting as the Table Rock Trail, this trail follows a rugged volcanic wall

came up from San Francisco in the 1870s for

the Garden Rings

fresh air and to host lively social gatherings in 18k Gray

for the city’s moneyed crowd. Another option

a n d Ye l l o w G o l d

is the History Trail (different trailhead, same park), which takes you to historic Bale Grist Mill, a running 36-foot waterwheel mill from 1846 that still grinds flour. (Calistoga)

Jack London State Park From the upper parking lot, a 1.5-mile round-trip hike goes past farm buildings up to the lake where London spent his summers with famous literary friends, then returns to visit his home, now a museum. A short trail from the lower

OLD GOLD

parking lot leads to London’s grave and to the

www.oldgoldjewelry.com

mendocino

spectacular ruins of Wolf House. (Glen Ellen,

] 707 937-5005

in Sonoma)

tiburon [ 415 789-9583

800 992-5335

Lawndale Trail at Annadel State Park Find this 5,000-acre park along Highway 12 at the northern end of Sonoma Valley. There are many bike, horse and hiking trails; MacNeil’s favorite is the Lawndale Trail, a steady but manageable uphill walk with lots of newts

PHOTO CREDIT: PREVIOUS PAGE HIKER/ NEENA CUNAT

and seasonal creeks in the rainy season. And it’s one of the few places to hike above the fog layer in winter, when bright sunshine is a welcome sight. (Kenwood, in Sonoma Valley)

Hike with a View Gunsight Rock at Sugarloaf State Park Get to the top of this seven-mile grueling uphill climb for 360-degree views of the Bay Area to the Sierras. The hike starts somewhat slow

READ MORE ABOUT IT: Check out the continuation of this time-

gift certiﬁcates • relaxing massage

line online at marinmagazine.com. Or read

luxurious facials • therapeutic body treatments

much more on the topic in Ghost Wineries

skin, bath & body care products

of Napa Valley by Irene W. Haynes, published by the Wine Appreciation Guild

( 415 ) 9 24 -7 3 0 0 • w w w . s t e l l a r s p a . c o m

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26 TA M A L PA I S D R I V E , C O R T E M A D E R A , C A 9 4 9 2 5

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

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OCTOBER 2008

107

a great stroll offering expansive views for not much effort. The trailhead is marked by a sign in a small parking lot (across from the cemetery) just past the Veterans Memorial Building on First Street. Besides views of the wine country, expect to see a beautiful variety of oaks and grass woodlands, pristinely preserved. through a grassy meadow, then quickly gets

it’s 4.5 miles to Holm’s Place, a good spot to turn

into the burning switchbacks. Bring your hik-

around, but many turn back after getting to the

ing poles if you have them. The trailhead is

shady rock vista point, two miles up. (Calistoga)

well signed, on the north end of the parking

(Sonoma)

Sonoma Valley Regional Park Choose the paved level trail rambling through oaks that

lot. Take a lunch to savor along with the views

Batholomew Park Winery A rolling two-

are the homes of many acorn woodpeckers.

at the top, where you can sit on the edge of a

mile loop, crossing rambling creeks through

Very (leashed) dog-friendly on trail; for un-

rock outcropping and dangle your feet over the

hills deep in the woods, with a lot of wood-

leashed fun, opt for the on-site large dog park.

valley below. (Kenwood, Sonoma Valley)

en steps. Expansive views of Sonoma and the

(Glen Ellen)

Golden Gate Bridge on a clear day await at the Oat Hill Mine Trail The Chronicle’s Tom Stienstra calls it a “thigh-burning, knee-wrench-

top; wine tasting and a choice of many picnic areas beckon below. (Sonoma)

ing, toe-jamming experience, only for the deranged.” MacNeil agrees, but enjoys bringing

Riverfront Regional Park Among the vines off Eastside Road, enjoy this totally flat, wide two-mile loop path around a large reservoir.

Flat Hikes

You’ll also find great picnic tables under huge

seasoned hikers on this steady climb that yields

Overlook Trail Easily accessible from down-

views of Napa Valley almost right away. One-way

town Sonoma to walkers of all abilities, this is

redwoods, where it is cool even on the hottest summer day. (Healdsburg)

77 Connecticut Street, San Francisco t. 415.552.5001 f. 415.552.0714 www.bathandbeyond.com

108

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OCTOBER 2008

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

FOUR NEW HOT SPOTS

deli, and whipped Bellwether Farms ricotta and

After exploring local hikes, experience the flavors from new culinary treasures of the region.

ty pizzas. 21021 Geyserville Ave, Geyserville,

thyme as a cheese selection as well as special-

707.814.0111, diavolapizzeria.com Ubuntu Newly opened Ubuntu features daily harvested food with a focus on produce from

grapes for Kelleher Family Vineyard’s Cabernet

its own biodynamic gardens. The majority of

Sauvignon are harvested. The modern, ur-

the menu’s 200 wines come from sustainably

ban farmhouse decor includes a 70-seat din-

farmed grapes, and the restaurant’s interior re-

ing room, three private dining rooms and an

flects a sustainable touch, with reclaimed wood

outdoor patio. 7377 St. Helena Hwy, Napa,

flooring and furnishings and recycled patio fur-

707.944.2749, 25degreesbrix.com

niture from the ’40s. An upstairs yoga studio

Diavola Executive chef Dino Bugica and

offers 53 different classes per week. 1140 Main St, Napa, 707.251.5656, ubuntunapa.com

25º Brix Restaurant The recently unveiled

owner Doug Swett recently unveiled Diavola,

restaurant has a farm-to-table focus, with new

sister restaurant to Geyserville’s Santi. The ca-

La Toque at the Westin Verasa Chef Ken

gardens and orchards planted on site to pro-

sual, family-style pizzeria and salumeria high-

Frank has moved his award-winning restaurant

vide seasonal fruits, vegetables and wine for

lights local produce and small-production

La Toque from its Rutherford location to the

the restaurant’s daily-changing menu. Executive

Italian wines. The 1,200-square-foot restaurant

newly opened Westin Verasa. Named one of the

chef Carlos Cañada and executive pastry chef

includes an Italian wood-burning oven, a small

“Best Restaurants in America” by Wine Spectator

Andrea Mautner have created a menu inspired

altar to San Lorenzo, the patron saint of cooks,

magazine, La Toque has a seasonal menu

by the culinary traditions of the wine-growing

and a rotating collection of artwork. A season-

and a patio for savoring Napa’s warm weath-

regions in southern France and northern Italy.

al menu features items like octopus with celery

er. 1314 McKinstry St, Napa, 707.257.1800,

The name reflects the sugar level at which the

hearts, pickled zucchini with mint from the cold

starwoodhotels.com

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

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109

Coastal Paddle Tour out of Horseshoe Cove near Cavallo Point. OPPOSITE : SeaTrek senior guide Mitch Powers teaches a group of students in preparation for the tour.

110

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PL AY

Along for the Glide KAYAKING IS WORK, BUT A GREAT WAY TO EXPLORE MARIN’S WATERY SIDE

BY S O M E R F L A H E RT Y P H OTO S T I M P O RT E R

I ’ V E T H O U G H T A B O U T K AYA K I N G FO R Y E A R S . Thought being the key word here: in terms of actu-

ally getting out on the water, I’ve only come as far as lunch at Sausalito’s Le Garage. So when the opportunity arose for a kayaking tour of Richardson Bay with SeaTrek senior guide Mitch Powers (photo below), I was excited—eager to see Marin from “the perspective of the water,” to use his words. Although for advanced paddlers sea kayaking can be a year-round sport, Marin’s warm fall weather makes October an ideal kayaking month for people of all skill levels. Early mornings, when the sea is flat and empty of traffic and the only human interaction is a quick hello to floating home owners sipping coffee on their docks, kayakers can often be seen gliding over the bay. The beauty and closeness to nature is one aspect that draws people to the sport, but the sheer physicality of it can’t be overlooked. Mitch, who has been with the company more than 12 years, tells me

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the six-pack abs I’ve dreamed of might just be possible with daily sessions on the water. The sit-in double kayak we take out of Schoonmaker Point Marina doesn’t look too daunting. I put on the provided windbreaker, slip into what looks like a skirt with suspend-

As we start to paddle my mind recites the mini-lesson he had given me on the beach… dig into the top of the water, bring back Pink Chicken • Egg & Avocado • Bóboli

the paddle, don’t splash

Poesia • Jean Bourget

Mitch in the face with

Miss Grant, and more . . . 467 magnolia avenue, larkspur, ca 94939 415.924.2500

water. Repeat. ers and snap on my personal flotation device,

A S P E C I A L I N V I TAT I O N T O E S C A P E , E X P LO R E , E X P E R I E N C E

and Mitch demonstrates how to get in the kayak without falling over: “Sit right here” (he points to the edge of the kayak), “swing your left leg in and then your right.” I mimic his actions and easily sink into the cockpit. Then he tells me to pull the back of my suspender-skirt behind me and fold it over the lip of the sit-in’s opening. I start sweating. My triceps burn. Mitch helps. I begin to reconsider how much I want the rock-hard abs and new “perspective” on Marin and I haven’t even gotten on the water. I then pull the front of the skirt forward with all my might to hook it on the front lip. Finally I’m safely inside, protected from any water that would enter if we inadver-

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tently flipped over. Mitch launches us off the beach and hops in the back with ease. Show-

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off. As we start to paddle my mind recites the

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keep the knuckles in line with the top edge of

Receive 20% off the Best Available Rate at time of booking. Sunday-Thursday night only. Rate subject to availability and blackout dates may apply. Must book by December 31, 2008. Not valid on existing reservations, preferred corporate rates or group blocks.

mini-lesson he had given me on the beach:

the paddle, use the core muscles to turn the top half of the body to the left and right in sync with the paddle, dig into the top of the

112

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water, bring back the paddle, don’t splash Mitch in the face with water. Repeat. “For an urban setting there’s actually a lot to see,” he says as we glide past pelicans and act as voyeurs a safe distance away from resting harbor seals. Mitch, who has authored a book on the history of Richardson Bay, gives me an overview of the area, pointing out the floating home journalist Paul Avery lived in that was made famous in the movie Zodiac and another home with a decommissioned train in its living room. When I ask further about one of the homes, he suggests we get closer, and we make our way through the narrow waterways between the docks and lagoons. Meanwhile Mitch, who spends most mornings paddling on these waters, also acts as a harbor seal “dad,” kindly telling passing

55 Throckmorton Ave., Mill Valley 415-380-0880 www.alixandcompany.com

kayakers who have gotten too close to the protected animals that legally they need to leave a safe distance from the resting seals. His daily trips on the water have clearly paid off: his stroke is powerful, not tired like mine. After the view (and my trembling bi-

Simon Parkes California Landscapes

SEATREK REGATTA On October 25, SeaTrek’s 27th annual regatta, one of the largest in Northern California, takes place. The event is a beneﬁt for Environmental Traveling Companions’ (ETC) accessible outdoor adventure programs for people with disabilities and inner-city youth. Paddlers start in Richardson Bay and take one of three courses, depending on the race: around Belvedere Point; or circumnavigating Angel Island through Raccoon Strait; or circumnavigating both Alcatraz and Angel islands. For more information contact Kristi Grotting at 415.474.7662, ext. 19.

www.simonparkes.com

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SANDRA BIRD DESIGNS ceps) encourage us to take a rest, it’s a challenge for me to get back in the rhythm, but he easily falls into the pace.

Although SeaTrek rents top-deck kayaks to those without experience and sit-ins

DESIGN BUILD FIRM

to kayakers who have the necessary skills or have taken the company’s full-day introductory course, stalking the water with a professional guide yields lots of insight on the area’s natural charms. And the three hour “Scenic Sausalito” guided tour, which Mitch

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tinct advantage when it comes to kayaking, as the constant paddling can be exhausting. But even “couch potatoes” can get out on the water and enjoy themselves, Mitch insists. calls “a perfect paddle for beginners,” is inexpensive at $65. SeaTrek also has a Coastal Paddle tour, which launches out of Horseshoe Cove near Cavallo Point and is designed for graduates of the one-day introductory class; participants paddle a distance of about six miles along the rugged coast, exploring sea caves and rock gardens, with a stop for lunch at Kirby Cove.

“The best workout for a lean dancer’s body!” (as seen in Glamour Magazine, Yoga Journal and on Extra) Childcare Available 208 Bon Air Center, Greenbrae (behind Mollie Stone’s) (415) 461-4461 www.barmethod.com

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Beginners with athletic backgrounds, particularly in sports like swimming that promote above-average arm strength, have a distinct advantage when it comes to kayaking, as the constant paddling—sometimes against the current—can be exhausting. But even “couch potatoes” can get out on the water and enjoy themselves, Mitch insists. And improvements in boat technology since kayaking’s Inuit be-

ginnings—from sealskin-covered wood frames to today’s lighter-weight and more PETAfriendly plastic, fiberglass or Kevlar—make the boats easier to handle than before. Other area outfitters offer guided tours. Blue Waters Kayaking has shoreside facilities on Tomales Bay—one location in Inverness at the Golden Hinde Inn Marina, the other in Marshall near the Marshall store. Guides lead groups out on the bay for full-moon paddles with launches from both locations. Point Reyes Outdoors runs kayaking expeditions from Drakes Bay Oyster Company: the group kayaks into Schooner Bay, the second-largest of the five bays that make up the wildlife sanctuary Drakes Estero, and spends the day meandering through the estero—exploring the coast and possibly gliding past the tip of a bat ray fin, great and snowy egrets, leopard sharks and harbor seals; lunching on an inviting beach, perhaps taking a hike or a nap before paddling back home. Beginners should

get the newskin glow

“try a half day tour,” says co-owner and Fairfax resident Mike Rudolph. “Launching out near Nick’s Cove, depending on the time of year, you’ll see fantastic wildlife, including small critters like snails, crabs and crustaceans in the inner tidal zone. For kayakers it’s easy to see because you can get up really close.” And evening paddles, especially when bioluminescence makes marine creatures emit a glow, have “been amazing, it’s like a light show underwater,” he adds. Ah, nature.

PADDLE PLANNERS SeaTrek (Sausalito) 415.488.1000, seatrek.com

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located in The Sanctuary day spa, Bay Club Marin, Corte Madera Town Center, at The Gym in downtown Tiburon + the sanctuary spa at The San Francisco Bay www.newskinclinic.com

Club. Non-members welcome. 415.945.9555

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G I V I N G BACK

volunteermatch.org

Volunteers at the Marine Mammal Center tend to injured seals.

Participants in the Trips for Kids program.

MARIN MAGAZINE is in partnership with volunteermatch.org to bring

Aspect Foundation

City of San Rafael

awareness of the numerous local

Work with foreign exchange students from

Help the City of San Rafael get the word

volunteer opportunities to our readers.

more than 50 countries. Volunteers will

out about the harmful effects of litter.

To start giving back, ﬁnd a complete list

recruit host families and provide support

Learn how to conduct a presentation

at marinmagazine.com/volunteer.

and activities for students. Contact Eileen

and use PowerPoint. Contact Cory Bytof,

O’Neill, 800.879.6884, aspectfoundation.org

415.485.3407, sanrafaelvolunteers.org

Canal Alliance

Committed 2 Community

American Heart Association

This ﬁve-person San Rafael team is re-

Get in the game. Assistant coaches are

Give back to the community and help edu-

sponsible for raising $2.2 million annually.

needed to assist in C2C’s Youth Run4Fun

cate Americans about cardiovascular disease

Volunteers will learn the basics of nonproﬁt

program. Volunteers will be assigned to

and stroke. Candidate should have an inter-

fundraising and how to cultivate long-term

one program and will help to motivate and

est in fairs and festivals and public speak-

relationships with donors. This is a résumé

inspire young athletes and to help organize

ing. Contact Emily Galbraith, 415.433.2273,

builder for an eager volunteer. Contact Anna

games. Contact Jackie Dixon, 415.928.5558,

americanheart.org

Lindgren, 415.454.2640, canalalliance.org

c2csf.org

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Fair Housing of Marin A self-starter with strong ofﬁce skills is needed in San Rafael to help the homeless, immigrants and refugees. Volunteer will assist with direct mail campaign, data entry and research. Contact James Zazueta, 415.457.5025, fairhousingmarin.com

Girls on the Run of the Bay Area Volunteers are needed to staff run and bike stations and cheer on the athletes at the Marin Triathlon October 26. Volunteers will earn an organic T-shirt and hat. Contact Susan Roberts, 415.863.8942, gotrbayarea.org

Jewish Partisan Educational Foundation JPEF needs volunteers to help create and share educational materials with high school students. Volunteers are expected to commit to about 10 hours a week. Contact Maria Hosu, 415.563.2244, jewishpartisans.org

Marine Mammal Center The center is seeking animal care crews to assist with pen cleaning, laundry, dishes, weighing animals, maintaining animal charts, food preparation, assisting with medical procedures and feeding the animals. Contact Kathleen, 415.289.7374, marinemammalcenter.org

Mill Valley Film Festival Volunteers are needed for the 31st annual Mill Valley Film Festival. Opportunities in theater operations, box ofﬁce support, venue assistance, transportation and hospitality, thru October 12. Contact Lauren Asmus, 415.526.5869, caﬁlm.org

Trips for Kids The San Rafael group is seeking volunteers to teach environmental education in a fun, exciting way to kids on mountain bike rides and at the group’s after-school earna-bike program. Contact Marilyn Price, 415.458.2986, tripsforkids.org MARINMAGAZINE.COM

—DJ MARIN

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PER F O RMING ARTS

Marin Symphony Heats Up NEW SEASON OPENS WITH A LATIN BEAT BY DANIEL JEWETT THE MARIN SYMPHONY IS EXPECTING THE TEMPERATURE TO RISE THIS MONTH,

Sandor & Parissa heat things up. BELOW : Quartet San Francisco prepares for a big night.

as it kicks off its 56th season with one of its most ambitious programs to date featuring red-hot tango dancers, a Grammy-nominated quartet, a 100-piece orchestra playing tango, classical and jazz-infused compositions—even the traditional accordion-like sounds of the bandoneón will be heard. It all started when Marin Symphony music director and conductor Alasdair Neale first encountered Quartet San Francisco composer and violinist Jeremy Cohen’s work at the Sun Valley Summer Symphony in Idaho, where Neale is also musical director. “He saw the possibilities of doing arrangements with the full orchestra,” Neale says of Cohen. “The idea came up and I thought this could be a good thing. I’m always looking for something to make the opening different and creative.” “It was a confluence of events,” adds Cohen. “Alasdair had heard our music and seen my performance and I think he was excited and felt our style fit perfect with the theme of the show.” Indeed, the decision to open the season with a quartet famous for its tango arrangements—the group won the International Tango Competition in 2004—set the stage for the symphony’s whole six-program season. The symphony has recently begun including a theme for the season that brings in a complementary art form and includes it in most of the performances, says Marin Symphony marketing director Suzanne Crawford—and this year that theme is dance. “We were looking for a leadoff to start the season with a bang,” she adds. “Alasdair likes to end and start really strong, but we are all excited—this season is strong all the way through.” Certainly no tango performance would be complete without dance, so for select numbers during the performance—some composed specifically by

pair Sandor & Parissa will take the stage. “The tango dancers will add a whole other dimension; tango’s roots are in singing an dancing,” says Cohen, who first performed with Sandor in the San Francisco version of the Broadway hit Forever Tango. “We will start with tango 101 and by the end it will be much more like modern dance—and this will mirror the music.”

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P H OTO: (LOWER) NOA H C LAY TON

Cohen for the occasion—the world-class tango

“I think the audience will really enjoy it,” says Parissa, Antonio Banderas’s dance coach in the movie Take the Lead. “Tango is one of the most beautiful forms of music and it is even better with a beautiful visual.” “Tango tells the story of a relationship between a man and a woman; everybody can relate,” adds Sandor, who married Parissa in 2005 and now tours the world with her in their hit show Magique Tango Vivo! “This is a great opportunity for people to see and appreciate this beautiful art. Many don’t know what a treasure they have around them.” Cohen says his crossover quartet—which tackles styles as diverse as pop, blues, big band, Gypsy swing and jazz, in addition to tango— has collaborated with dancers and orchestras before but was surprised by Neale’s enthusiasm and confidence. “He liked what he heard and once he got a sense of our range, asked us to do the whole second half of the concert,” Cohen says. “We were beside ourselves, now we only have a million hours of work to do.” The dancers, the quartet, the orchestra and the bandoneón player will all occupy the stage in different combinations, at different times and, sometimes, all at the same time, making for a technically difficult production—but one that Neale is eager to see onstage. “I love anything even remotely Latin; that feeling and that beat,” says the conductor,

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who confesses to making trips to Cesar’s Latin Palace in San Francisco’s Mission District in earlier days. “It will be all I can do to avoid shaking my hips on the podium—but I may even do that.” Whether or not he does, it seems the people of Marin County and beyond have taken to the maestro since his arrival—he was previously associate conductor for the San Francisco

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Symphony—in 2001. “The audience loves and trusts him,” Crawford says. “I feel like we are in a new heyday of the Marin Symphony.”

The opening night gala and milonga will take place at 5 p.m. October 5. Shows are at 7:30 p.m. October 5 and 7 at the Marin Center in San Rafael. Call 415.479.8100 or visit marinsymphony.org for more information.

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

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CAL E N DA R

OCTOBER ARTS & EVENTS GUIDE to San Rafael for one night only. Marin Veterans Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, goldengateopera.org

COMEDY Tuesdays Mark Pitta and Friends An evening for up-and-comers and established headliners to work on new material. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.9600, 142throckmortontheatre.com

DANCE 10–12 Sara Kraft The artist’s newest show, HyperReal, explores transcendence in the digital age. CounterPULSE (SF). 415.626.2060, ybca.org Danse Lumiere presents The Fifth Book of Peace October 24–26.

THEATER Thru January 11 Disco Diva Thelma Houston The Grammy Award winner is back at Teatro ZinZanni. Experience Houston’s passionate vocal delivery along with special guests El Vez, the Mexican Elvis, and Christine Deaver as the outrageous chef. Pier 29 (SF). 415.438.2668, zinzanni.org Thru 5 North Bay Shakespeare Company Hector Correa directs the classic A Midsummer Night’s Dream. This outdoor theater venue is magical on a warm fall night. Bring a picnic early and enjoy. Hamilton Amphitheater (Novato). 415.381.1115, nbshakes.org Thru 5 Marin Theatre Company Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune is the romantic comedy about waitress Frankie and short-order cook Johnny who, over the course of one night, reveal their souls to each other. Marin Theatre Company (Mill Valley). 415.388.5208, marintheatre.org 120

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Thru 5 CalShakes The California Shakespeare Theater presents the William Shakespeare classic Twelfth Night. Bruns Amphitheater (Orinda). 510.548.9666, calshakes.org 11 Live at the Met The Lark Theater hosts the entire Metropolitan Opera season live in high deﬁnition. In October see soprano Karita Mattila as Salome. Lark Theater (Larkspur). 415.924.5111, larktheater.net

24–26 Fifth Book of Peace Maxine Hong Kingston’s work of the same name is the inspiration for this Danse Lumiere production featuring the dancers of the LINES ballet. Dance Mission Theater (SF). 415.273.4633, dlkdance.com MUSIC Tuesdays Open Mic Night Erin Hines hosts an evening of beat boxers, accordions, blues players and more. Sweetwater Station (Larkspur). 415.706.1164 Tuesdays Swing Fever The band pays

Thru 12 Spring Awakening Broadway’s new rock musical and coming-of-age tale kicks off a national tour in San Francisco. Curran Theatre (SF). 415.512.7770, shnsf.com

Thru 12 Ross Valley Players The season begins with Moonlight and Magnolias, an off-Broadway comedy about life in Hollywood in 1939. Barn Theatre (Ross). 415.456.9555, rossvalleyplayers.com 30 Golden Gate Opera Cav and Pag, the famous Italian-opera doubleheader Cavalleria Rusticana and I Pagliacci, come

tribute to jazz artists and composers, playing selections from its roster of more than 1,000 tunes. Panama Hotel (San Rafael). 415.457.3993, panamahotel.com

1–12 San Francisco Opera A man’s sanity is threatened when he becomes obsessed with his dead wife in Erich Wolfgang Korngold’s psychological study. Die Tote Stadt features German tenor Torsten Kerl and American soprano Emily Mageein in their San Francisco Opera debuts. War Memorial Opera House (SF). 415.565.3204, sfopera.com MARINMAGAZINE.COM

Marin Symphony Alasdair Neale, Music Director

2–3 Beneﬁt Concert Jim Keltner, Ry Cooder and Nick Lowe take the stage in support of the Richard de Lone Special Housing Project. Great American Music Hall (SF). 415.885.0750, gamh.com

5 Town Center Music Series Vocalist Paulette ReNee closes out the summer music series. Town Center (Corte Madera). 415.924.2961, shoptowncenter.com

5–7 Marin Symphony Celebrates the open-

| 09 56 SUBSCRIPTION SEASON TH

The Wind Beneath the Wings

Tango Argentino with Quartet San Francisco

ing of the 56th season with a black-tie gala featuring Quartet San Francisco, presenting a mix of orchestral jazz and Argentinean tango. Cameo dance performances by Sandor & Parissa. Gala event October 5, music only October 7. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org

11 Soweto Gospel Choir Hear everything from tribal music to Western gospel performed in eight different languages as this South African gospel choir makes its only Bay Area appearance. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org

Grammy-nominated Quartet San Francisco performs new works and new orchestrations of favorite tangos by Piazzolla, Rodríguez and Bardi.

16–19 Yoshi’s San Francisco The memory of

Sunday, October 5 and Tuesday, October 7, 2008 at 7:30pm

iconic American trumpeter and bandleader Dizzy Gillespie is being kept alive by the Dizzy Gillespie All-Star Big Band. Hear them under the direction of Slide Hampton. Yoshi’s (SF). 415.655.5600, www.yoshis.com

23–25 San Francisco Symphony Violin vir-

Alasdair Neale, conductor Quartet San Francisco Cameo dance performance by Sandor & Parissa

tuoso Joshua Bell performs pieces from four composers including Richard Strauss’s Don Juan. Conducted by Fabio Luisi. Davies Symphony Hall (SF). 415.864.6000, sfsymphony.org

Marin Center, San Rafael Tickets $27/$50/$65 (students half price) at 415.499.6800 www.marinsymphony.org

25 The Best of MOMIX These dancerillusionists make audiences doubt reality as they fool the naked eye. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org

31 Umphrey’s McGee This jam band has been called the next Phish; check them out this Halloween. The Warﬁeld (SF). 415.421.8497, goldenvoice.com MARINMAGAZINE.COM

Concerts made possible by Bon Air Center, Bank of America and Marin Magazine. Guest artists made possible by Frank and Lois Noonan.

Tango at Marin Symphony’s Opening Night Black-tie Gala and Milonga! Sunday, October 5, 2008, 5pm and post-concert. For tickets and information, call 415.479.8100 or click www.marinsymphony.org

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31 Morris Day and the Time See the band

Three Questions for Nancy Pelosi In conjunction with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s recent appearance at Dominican University of California’s Leadership Lecture series, the congresswoman agreed to a few questions from Marin Magazine. Marin: In your remarks upon accepting the House gavel, you said, referring to women: “we have made history, now let us make progress.” Describe what you meant by that. In what areas of American life is progress needed or demanded for women? Pelosi: My rise to becoming Speaker was a moment for all women to say, look what we have achieved. But it was also about all of us having a voice in the debate over a wide range of issues, not just what some refer to as women’s issues. We must make progress in so many areas. We have lost the last eight years to an administration that has broken its promises and stubbornly held onto failed policies that have diminished the American dream and weakened the security of our nation. We need more women in leadership roles across all areas of government and we must confront all the big issues of the day so we can renew opportunity and promote innovation here at home, and increase our security and respect around the world. Marin: Global warming, five years of war, an ailing economy, local and state governments on the brink of (or in) bankruptcy, no wonder the mood of the electorate is grim. As Speaker, and as a parent what reasons do you give to your family and to the nation for optimism? Pelosi: I am an optimist at heart, so while I see serious challenges ahead, I also see opportunities to strengthen our economy and create jobs for the long-term, to confront the climate crisis, and to restore the American Dream for the next generation. We have no greater obligation as parents or as leaders in Congress than to ensure that we are passing on a stronger America and even greater opportunities. As Americans, we are always hopeful and focused on the future. Look at our history, and you see people who can tackle any challenge. Marin: In your book, Know Your Power, A Message to American Daughters, you describe Sala Burton this way: “Everyone respected Sala Burton and knew not to underestimate her. She looked like Mother Earth; she spoke with a Polish accent; she didn’t drive a car. She gave off an intense warmth if she liked you. She was passionate about what she believed in, but very dispassionate about her politics.” Looking ahead to your own legacy, not only as the first woman Speaker but as a longtime legislator, how would a biographer write that paragraph about you? Pelosi: I just got here, so I am not focused on my legacy. We have too much work to do right now to worry about what history will write. But I think that a biographer will be able to say of my time in Congress that I was willing to confront tough challenges head on, particularly on the issue of our age, which is global warming. No greater threat to our economy or to our national security or to the future of our planet exists. Posterity will judge us on what we do now to meet this enormous challenge.

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made famous in the Prince movie Purple Rain and get the chance to do your own jungle walk. The Grand Ballroom (SF). 415.421.8497, goldenvoice.com

GALLERIES MARIN Aperture F/64 Fine art and black-and-white photography. 635 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo. 415.482.0480 Artisans Art Gallery Idea of the Body Work by multiple artists, October 10–31. 853 Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.460.5208 Art League of Northern California The painting of Frank Lobdell, thru October 26. 781 Hamilton Pkwy, Novato. 415.246.2541, artleagueofnortherncalifornia.org Art Works Downtown The State of Painting, juried exhibit, October 10–November 14. 1337 Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.451.8119, artworksdowntown.org Claudia Chapline Gallery Paintings by Lorraine Almeida and Renee Eaton, October 4–26. 3445 Shoreline Hwy, Stinson Beach. 415.868.2308, cchapline.com College of Marin Art Gallery River Flowing Home: An Artist’s Life Work by Point Reyes Station artist Susan Hall. 835 College Ave, Kentﬁeld. 415.485.9493, marin.cc.ca.us Gallery Bergelli New paintings by Carlos Catasse, thru October. 483 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur. 415.945.9454, gallerybergelli.com Gallery Route One I Love My Dog & Other Tales by Vikisa and In the Presence of Trees by Pam Bolton and Cindy Cleary, thru October 26. 11101 Highway One, Point Reyes Station. 415.663.1347, galleryrouteone.org Marin Society of Artists 81st annual members show, October 26–November 16. 30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Ross. 415.454.9561, marinsocietyofartists.org Milk and Honey Art Gallery Artist Tyler Bewley and Melanie Barna present an urban landscape show, October 10–30. 384 Miller Ave, Mill Valley. 415.383.7580 MARINMAGAZINE.COM

Photo by Curtis Myers

Meet FARMER DAVE HALE THURSDAYS AND SUNDAYS at the civic center FARMERS markets. Why eat an ordinary apple,when you can eat — sorry,we can’t resist— one Hale of an apple? Because produce is fresher and tastier when it comes from this end of the planet.Come down to the Marin Farmers Markets and get to know your neighbors, including local farmers like Dave Hale.While you’re here, enjoy a leisurely brunch, shop for seasonal fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses and artisan breads. You’ll see that people come from far and wide to buy produce that doesn’t. For the full interview visit marinfarmersmarkets.org. Find your copy of Organic Marin, a cookbook written by Marin Magazine at the Marin Civic Center Farmers Markets.

Marin Civic Center (Sun & Thurs, 8-1, ALL YEAR) Novato (Tues, 4-8, May-september) Fairfax (Wed, 4-8, May-september)

1 - 8 0 0 - 8 9 7 - FA R M

Newark (Sun, 9-1, ALL YEAR) OAKLAND — Grand Lake (Sat, 9-2, ALL YEAR) Hayward (Sat, 9-1, ALL YEAR)

M A R I N FA R M E R S M A R K E T S . O R G

Northbay ArtWorks Northbay ArtWorks members’ ongoing work. 7049 Redwood Blvd, Ste 208, Novato. 415.892.8188, northbayartworks.com

Sam the Butcher Paintings Giant oil paintings of steaks by Sergio Lobato, thru October 19. 19 Ross Common, Ross. 415.902.1019, samthebutcherart.org

Cain Schulte Gallery Work by Fahamu Pecou and Yvonne Lee Schultz, thru October 4. 101 Townsend St, 415.543.1550, cainschulte.com

O’Hanlon Center for the Arts Recent paintings by Marie Van Elder and monoprints from the monthly workshop, October 7–30. 616 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.388.4331, ohanloncenter.org

Smith Andersen North American history photographs by Michelle Vignes, October 11– November 22. 2240 A Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.455.9733, smithandersennorth.com.

Caldwell Snyder Gallery Recent painting from Sharon Booma, thru October 15. 341 Sutter St, 415.296.7896, caldwellsnyder.com

Robert Allen Fine Art Dialogues in Light New encaustic works on panel by Mari Marks and Kim Bernard, thru October 24. 301 Caledonia St, Sausalito. 415.331.2800, robertallenﬁneart.com Robert Beck Gallery Early California and contemporary plein air paintings on display. 222 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo. 415.456.7898, beckgallery.org Robert Green Fine Arts Ongoing work. 154 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. Represents Paul Jenkins, Ed Moses, Sam Francis and others. 415.381.8776, rgﬁnearts.com

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Studio 333 Ongoing work from more than 25 Bay Area artists. 333A Caledonia St, Sausalito. 415.331.8272, studio333.info The Art Bar Figurative oil paintings by Renaissance master Adam Miller. 46 Main St, Tiburon. 415.435.5999, theartbar.us

SAN FRANCISCO ArtHaus Paintings by Bay Area artist Maxine Solomon, October 2–December 23. 411 Brannan St, 415.977.0223, arthaus-sf.com Berggruen Gallery Ongoing work. 228 Grant Ave, 415.781.4629, berggruen.com

Elins Eagles Smith Gallery Recent paintings by Wade Hoefer, October 2–November 1. 49 Geary St, 415.981.1080, eesgallery.com George Krevsky Gallery 77 The Casino Paintings by Lisa Esherick, October 16– November 22. Geary St, 415.397.9748, georgekrevskygallery.com Gregory Lind Gallery Beacons, Floaters and Lost Objects Work by Sarah Walker, thru October 11. 49 Geary St, 415.296.9661, gregorylindgallery.com Hackett-Freedman Gallery The Dance Series 1969–1972, by Frank Lobdell. 250 Sutter St, 415.362.7152, hackettfreedman.com

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

Meyerovich Gallery Work by Matt Phillips and Donald Sultan. 251 Post St, 415.421.7171, meyerovich.com Rena Bransten Gallery New work by photographer Matthias Hoch and Leave It on the Dance Floor, paintings by Joseph Park, thru October 11. 77 Geary St, 415.982.3292, renabranstengallery.com

MUSEUMS MARIN Bay Area Discovery Museum Goblin Jamboree Fundraiser Children and families are invited to come in costume and enjoy games and live entertainment—even attend a witch school, October 18–19 (Sausalito). 415.339.3958, baykidsmuseum.org Bolinas Museum Bolinas in the ’70s: The Oral History Project on the Water Moratorium and the Community Plan,

October 4–November 16 (Bolinas). 415.868.0330, bolinasmuseum.org Falkirk Cultural Center Handblown glass pumpkins take over the Falkirk Center this Halloween, October 25–26 (San Rafael). 415.485.3438, falkirkculturalcenter.org

BAY AREA Asian Art Museum Afghanistan: Hidden Treasures from the National Museum, Kabul In 2003 artifacts long thought stolen or destroyed were uncovered in Afghanistan. See these treasures as they make their only West Coast appearance. October 24–January 25 (SF). 415.581.3500, asianart.org Contemporary Jewish Museum Warhol’s Jews: Ten Portraits Reconsidered This exhibition is the ﬁrst West Coast showing of the complete set of paintings Andy Warhol made in this series, October 12–January 25 (SF). 415.655.7800, thecjm.org

de Young Maya Lin: Systematic Landscapes New drawings, sculpture and installations from Maya Lin, the artist behind the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, October 25– January 18 (SF). 415.863.3330, thinker.org Exploratorium The Exploratorium has three spooky Halloween events: experience the Physics of Toys (October 18), Halloween Heroes beneﬁting disadvantaged children (October 27) and in-costume fun at Phantasmagorium (October 31) SF. 415.561.0377, exploratorium.edu Legion of Honor The State Museums of Berlin and the Legacy of James Simon See more than 100 works from the State Museums of Berlin, all from patron James Simon, whose cultural legacy will also be examined, October 18–January 18 (SF). 415.863.3330, legionofhonor.org SFMOMA Half Life of a Dream: Contemporary Chinese Art from the Logan Collection Almost 50 works by Chinese

Jose Basso Valle de la Luna 30 x 40 inches Oil on Canvas

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Retirement Living At Its Finest!

Villa Marin

artists including shadows, masks, costumes and more on display, thru October 5 (SF). 415.357.4000, sfmoma.org

EVENTS Sundays Boomercize Classes This lowimpact ﬁtness program features dance steps and music from the American Bandstand hit parade. Marci Judelson leads the one-hour workout. Presidio Dance Theater (SF). 415.608.4503, boomercize. com

Villa Marin is designed for comfort, security and the enjoyment of leisure. • Purchase your condominium with 100% equity. 28 distinctive floor plans from under $300K to over $1.3M. Governed 100% by homeowner’s association. • Physician and rehab services in our clinic. Skilled nursing and personal care onsite.

• Activities, excursions, lectures and entertainment. • Exercise classes, indoor pool, hot tub and more! • A perfect place for active seniors to have fun, share intellectual pursuits and make new friends.

Contact Bobbie O. Heldt for a personal tour at (415) 492-2408 www.villa-marin.com Cal. Lic. # 210108102 CCRC Lic. # 158

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Thru 12 Cool Globes: Hot Ideas See 40 colorfully painted globes, each ﬁve feet in diameter, designed by local, national and international artists, representing solutions to global warming. Crissy Field Promenade (SF). coolglobes.org 2–5 Oktoberfest by the Bay Grab your stein and head to the ultimate German celebration of beer, food and fun. Fort Mason (SF). oktoberfestbythebay.com

2-12 Mill Valley Film Festival The 31st annual Mill Valley Film Festival features more than 200 ﬁlms from all over the world. CinéArts@Sequoia (Mill Valley), Rafael Film Center (San Rafael). 415.383.5256, mvff.com

3–5 Paciﬁc Pinball Expo Reconnect with your past and enjoy unlimited play on more than 300 old and new pinball machines. Civic Center Exhibition Hall (San Rafael). neptunebeachamusementmuseum.org

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3 Art for AIDS Bid on more than 125 modern and contemporary works of art. Herbst International Exhibition Hall (SF). 415.502.7276, artforaids.org 4 Film Night in the Park The Alfred Hitchcock masterpiece Vertigo is the last film in this outdoor film series. Union Square (SF). 415.453.4333, filmnight.org

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4 SF Lovefest 2008 Join the parade and

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(415) 924-6551

33 Montecito Drive, Corte Madera, CA 94925 126

MARIN

OCTOBER 2008

dance in the streets of San Francisco for this celebration of love, peace and music. Parade starts at Second and Market streets (SF). sﬂovefest.org

4 Wipeout’s Beach Party Meet big wave surfer Grant Washburn and enjoy MARINMAGAZINE.COM

food and drink specials. Wipeout Bar & Grill (Greenbrae). 415.461.7400, wipeoutbarandgrill.com

5 Green Spa Experience green beauty with professional makeup artists and estheticians providing mini-makeovers and facials. At the Village at Corte Madera Center Court (Corte Madera). 415.289.1001, teensforsafecosmetics.org

5 Glide Bridge to Bridge Run Help beneﬁt the Special Olympics at this 12K/7K walk and run in San Francisco. Ferry Building (SF). 415.995.6899, bridgetobridge.com

16 Dinner with a Brewmaster Join Arne Johnson of Marin Brewing Company for the second annual dinner with a brewmaster and learn how to pair beer with cheeses, meats and sauces. Noonan’s Bar and Grill (Larkspur). 415.464.8711, noonansbarandgrill.blogspot.com

LEADERSHIP LECTURE SERIES CHERIE BLAIR

English barrister and wife of former British Prime Minister Tony Blair .POEBZ 0DUPCFS t Q N "OHFMJDP )BMM %PNJOJDBO $BNQVT $35 per person (general admission seating and book)

MARIAN WRIGHT EDELMAN President and Founder, Children’s Defense Fund .POEBZ 0DUPCFS t Q N 4IJFME 3PPN %PNJOJDBO $BNQVT $30 per person (general admission seating and book)

More more information, visit www.dominican.edu/leadership or call 415-485-3202. To purchase tickets, visit Book Passage at www.bookpassage.com or call 415-927-0960. P R E S E N T E D BY

MEDIA SPONSOR

18 Children’s Book Festival The Tiburon Peninsula holds its ﬁrst-ever book sale with food, music and books for sale. Del Mar Middle School (Tiburon). reedschools.org

Bay Area’s Liveliest Bookstore

18 Hayden’s Hope Enjoy cocktails, a buffet and a live and silent auction at this special event to raise funds to find a cure for fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva, a rare genetic bone disease. Bay Model Visitor Center (Sausalito). 415.250.1048, haydenshope.com 18–November 16 Intersections 4 The fiber/DIMENSIONS group is showing and selling 90 juried works from more than 40 artists in the Bay Area and beyond. Herbst International Exhibition Hall (SF). 415.419.5316, fiberdimensions.com 19 Family Free Day Grab the kids and head to five top San Francisco destinations for a free day of family fun. Participating museums include the SF Museum of Modern Art, the new Contemporary Jewish Museum, MoAD, Zeum and Yerba Buena Gardens. (SF). 415.541.0312, yerbabuena.org 22–26 Fall Antiques Show The oldest continuously operating antiques fair on the West Coast is back with nearly 70 domestic and European dealers. Fort Mason Center (SF). 415.989-9019, sffas.org MARINMAGAZINE.COM

Giraffes, cats, pigs, roosters in different patterns and sizes.

Art, Gifts & Accessories Mon. - Sat. 10:30 am - 6:00 pm

47 C Tamal Vista Blvd., Corte Madera (415) 945-8863 • Across from Book Passage MARIN

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EXHIBITORS BELGIUM Axel Vervoordt CANADA Alan & Kathy Stacey CZECH REPUBLIC Iliad Antik

Benefiting Enterprise for High School Students

October 23 - October 26, 2008 Festival Pavilion, Fort Mason Center, San Francisco Thursday - Saturday, 10 am - 7 pm s Sunday, 12 noon - 6 pm Admission $15, includes catalogue

PREVIEW PARTY Wednesday, October 22 s 7 - 9 pm Sponsors: Citi Private Bank s Bay Area Mercedes-Benz Dealers

LOAN EXHIBITION Building Small: Antique Architectural Models Sponsors: Sotheby's International Realty Chubb Personal Insurance s Lane McVicker Insurance Services, LLC

LECTURE SERIES In the Classic Style Sponsors: Sotheby's s Sue Fisher King Additional Sponsors: 1st Dibs s Wilkes Bashford s Bonhams & Butterfields British Airways s Burns & Associates s Credit Suisse s First Republic Bank Garibaldis s Interior Plant Design s Mandarin Oriental s The Ranch on Soda Rock Sir John Soane’s Museum Foundation s Andrew Skurman Architects Media Sponsors: artnet s The Magazine Antiques San Francisco Magazine s Veranda Partner Travel Agency: Turon Travel

For information on events and to purchase tickets, please contact:

THE SAN FRANCISCO FALL ANTIQUES SHOW 200 Pine Street, Suite 600 San Francisco, CA 94104 (415) 989-9019 tel (415) 392-7611 fax sffas@ehss.org email www.sffas.org web

ENGLAND The Antique Enamel Company N & I Franklin Nicholas Grindley Isaac and Ede Keshishian Carpets Mallett, Inc. Susan Ollemans Oriental Art The Silver Fund Robert Young Antiques FRANCE Les Enluminures Bernard Steinitz IRELAND Nicholaus Boston Antiques ITALY Il Segno del Tempo HOLLAND Aardewerk Brothers Antiques Pieter Hoogendijk UNITED STATES Addison Fine Arts The Ames Gallery L’Antiquaire & The Connoisseur, Inc. Argentum – The Leopard’s Head R.M. Barokh Antiques Bauman Rare Books John Berggruen Gallery Allan Bone Gallery Cadre Charles Jay Conover David’s Antiques Douglas Dawson Gallery Dillingham & Company Finnegan Gallery Foster-Gwin, Inc. Fraenkel Gallery Malcolm Franklin, Inc. Richard Gould Antiques, Ltd. GrimmerRoche Historic American Indian Art Habité Ed Hardy San Francisco Hayden & Fandetta Hedge Heller Washam Carlton Hobbs, LLC Imari Gallery Allan Katz Americana Kentshire Galleries Thomas Livingston Antiques The Lotus Collection Midori Gallery Far Eastern Art Montgomery Gallery Greg Nanamura North Point Gallery Obsolete Tam O’Neill Fine Arts Peter Pap Oriental Rugs, Inc. Parsons Books Marc Richards Robertsons Elle Shushan Jonathan Snellenburg Antique Clocks with Philip Colleck Ltd. Daniel Stein Antiques Eve Stone Antiques, Ltd. Therien & Co., Inc. Washington Square Gallery, Ltd. Sandra Whitman James Willis Tribal Art

26 Marin County Triathlon Cheer on your favorite athlete or join the race. The ﬁrst-ever Marin County Triathlon includes swimming, biking and running events. McNears Beach County Park (San Rafael). 415.479.1013, marintriathlon.com

C O R P O R AT E O F F I C E 4 1 5 - 4 6 0 - 1 5 7 5 NAPA VALLEY 707-963-2800 S O U T H B AY 6 5 0 - 2 9 9 - 9 4 0 0 GENERAL CONTRACTORS LIC. #395458

27 The World of Nick Adams Join an all-star cast, including Tom Hanks, Jack Nicholson, Julia Roberts, Bruce Willis, Danny DeVito, Danny Glover and Edward James Olmos, for a staged reading of The World of Nick Adams. Proceeds beneﬁt Paul Newman’s camp the Painted Turtle, for children with life-threatening illnesses. Davies Symphony Hall (SF). 415.839.5338

IMAGINE THE VIEW NATURE WALKS/TALKS Ongoing Sonoma History Local actor George Webber morphs into Mark Twain, as he retells the history of Sonoma (Sonoma). 707.694.5097, georgewebber.com 5 Discovery Day Get a behind-thescenes look at scientiﬁc research and activities at the only marine science lab on San Francisco Bay. San Francisco State Romberg Tiburon Center (Tiburon). 415.338.3757, http://rtc.sfsu.edu

Y O U ’ V E A LWAY S WA N T E D . . . For over 30 years Plath & Company has been building dreams into reality from custom home building, renovation and remodeling to historic rehabilitation and commercial construction.

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5 Lyford House Tour The BelvedereTiburon Landmarks Society invites the public to tour the historic yellow Victorian on the shores of Richardson Bay. Lyford House (Tiburon). 415.435.1853, landmarks-society.org

11 Sunset Hike and Dine Join this local club for a monthly two-hour hike on moderate to steep trails on Mount Tamalpais. Reservations required. Mountain Home Inn (Mill Valley). 415.331.0100 15 Moonlight Hike The Marin Moonshiners hold a monthly 3-mile hike to experience the sunset, moonrise and a picnic. Reservations required. Pelican Inn Pub (Muir Beach). 415.331.0100 15 Marin Scuba Club Connect with other members of the scuba and free diving community. October’s meeting is for California shipwreck divers. Seafood Peddler Restaurant (San Rafael). 415.453.9556, marinscuba.org MARINMAGAZINE.COM

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Fava Bean Bruschetta MarketBar, San Francisco This tapas-style appetizer is a simple and delicious start to a spring meal. MarketBar uses Marin Star Route Farm’s young, tender fava beans. Because of the simplicity of this dish, use a good-quality sea salt and extra-virgin olive oil.

1 pound fava beans, shelled

Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil over

1 clove garlic, minced

high heat. Blanch the fava beans for 5 minutes, then

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed

Organic Marin

lemon juice

2 tablespoons 1⁄ 2 teaspoon sea salt, plus more

for sprinkling 1⁄4 teaspoon freshly ground

Fava beans, also called broad beans, have been cultivated in Southwest Asia and the

Put the beans in a food processor. Add the garlic, lemon

beans are eaten fresh when picked early in

juice, and thyme and pulse for several seconds until the

the season, or as a dried bean when allowed

Mediterranean for thousands of years. The

beans are coarsely chopped. With the machine running,

to mature on the vine. To cook fresh favas,

add the 1⁄4 cup olive oil until well combined. Stir in the

shell the beans from the spongy pods. Bring

1⁄ 2 teaspoon salt and the pepper. Set aside.

a large pot of salted water to a boil and

Preheat an oven to 350°F. Cut the baguette into 1⁄4 -inch

beans and refresh with cold water. Peel the

diagonal slices. Using a pastry brush, coat both sides of

beans by pinching the dark green ridge on

pepper 1 sweet or sourdough baguette

recipes from land to table

blanch the favas for 3 minutes. Drain the

the bread slices with the 2 tablespoons olive oil. Place the

the round side of the bean and pulling open

bread in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast in

the skin. Slip out the bright green bean and

the oven for 10 to 15 minutes, until light golden brown.

discard the skin. One pound of fava bean

Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Using

pods will yield 1 cup of shelled beans.

a butter knife, spread 1 teaspoon fava bean puree on each toast. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt and serve at room temperature. Makes 30 to 35 bruschetta

Written and photographed by Tim Porter and Farina Wong Kingsley, and produced by Marin Magazine, this seasonal cookbook celebrates the organic farmers and ranchers of Marin County, and the local restaurants who have provided over 40 delicious recipes that use these organic ingredients. The book can be purchased for $29.99 at local bookstores or by going to marinmagazine.com/organicmarin

“Organic Marin gives you a taste of what has become one of America’s most vibrant local food scenes; indeed, this beautiful book is the next best thing to eating there.” —Michael Pollan, author of Omnivore’s Dilemma and In Defense of Food

1 Peeling Fava Beans 3

drain and plunge into an ice-water bath. Once the beans are cool, peel them by pinching off the skin.

1⁄ 2 tablespoon minced fresh thyme 1⁄4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus

RETAIL THERAPY 9 Christopher Collins Fashion designer Christopher Collins presents his spring ’09 runway preview show. Deep Down Sound (SF). 415.440.2464, christophercollinscollection.com

16 Champagne and Shopping Join linen designer Nancy Koltes as she invites guests to an evening of champagne and shopping at the Strawberry Village location boutique. See the new collections, win prizes and walk out with your own gift bag. Nancy Koltes at Home (Mill Valley). 415.383.5811, nancykoltesathome.com

TRAVEL BUZZ Healdsburg Hotels Don’t miss a trip to wine country with the “Reﬁll, Redeem, Relax” package, which includes one night’s stay in a spa tub room at select local hotels in the area, two massages or facials at the hotel, a $50 gas card, a $50 dinner voucher to select restaurants, $50 shopping gift certiﬁcate and a winery tour and tasting for two. Valid Sunday thru Thursday, thru October. Package starting at $600. healdsburglodgings.com Intercontinental San Francisco The “Staycation Package” offers all California

residents overnight accommodations for two, overnight parking, breakfast and a $20 gas card. Prices start at $189 per night. 888.811.4273, intercontinentalsanfrancisco.com Kimpton Hotels The Argonaut Hotel, Harbor Court Hotel, Hotel Monaco San Francisco, Hotel Triton, Hotel Palomar San Francisco, Prescott Hotel, Serrano Hotel and Sir Francis Drake invite you to travel by train and save. Guests presenting a ticket stub from BART, Amtrak or Caltrain receive 20% off accommodations until December 31. 800.546.7866, kimptonhotels.com Larkspur Hotel Union Square Enjoy Union Square shopping, dining and entertainment as part of the “Park and Play” package, which includes accommodations for two, valet parking, continental breakfast and cable car day passes. $239. 800.553.1900, hotelunionsquare.com Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa Have the perfect wedding at this hotel perched above Monterey Bay. The package includes an ofﬁciated ceremony on one of the hotel’s terraces, professional wedding assistance, wedding bouquet and boutonnière, photography and dinner at the Duck Club Grill. Afterward the newly married couple will return to a room ﬁlled with candles and roses. Package starts at $1,700. 831.646.1700, montereyplazahotel.com

Robert M. Parker, Jr. Annual Seminar and Tasting It’s a rare opportunity to enjoy a tasting featuring 18 growths of the 2005 Bordeaux vintage including all ﬁve of the Premiers Grand Crus of the Left Bank and several of the top Right Bank wines. October 23. 707.967.2305, ciachef.edu Scheid Vineyards Scheid Vinyards invites wine club members to its harvest celebration. October 18. 831.375.4155, scheidwines.com Villa Florence This Union Square hot spot is reopening this month with a new look and design. To celebrate the hotel is offering an exclusive Italian getaway package which includes a welcome bottle of Italian wine, breadsticks and charcuterie from Kuleto’s, two signature cocktails from Bar Norcini, a tour of San Francisco for two and a gift of Kuleto’s olive oil and balsamic vinegar. $369, promotion code PBVF. 415.397.7700, villaﬂorence.com Westin San Francisco Market Street The downtown San Francisco hotel’s new California Wine Country Experience includes a two-night stay, chauffeured car for as many as six people through Napa and Sonoma, a picnic provided by Ducca restaurant and four bottles of your choice of wine from the Westin wine list. Package starts at $934. 415.974.6400, westinsf.com

Become an Educated Voter An innovative digital debate to be held at Dominican University The candidates and issues in the 2008 election are generating more press and more interest than ever. For those who are passionate about today’s issues and candidates or just feel that they want to learn more, the VoteSmart Challenge ’08 offers that chance—with a special twist. The event, moderated by National Public Radio’s Alicia Shepard, will offer attendees the chance to vote on the policies and positions in real time using digital keypads, and the results will be instantly visible onstage.

Join Shepard, members of the public and representatives from the campaigns of Senators John McCain and Barack Obama for a candid discussion of issues facing our nation including health care, education, economy, foreign policy, the environment and ethics.

VoteSmart Challenge 9 a.m.–11 a.m. October 23. Angelico Hall, 50 Acacia Ave., San Rafael. 415.485.3202, dominican.edu MARINMAGAZINE.COM

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Organic Marin RECIPES FROM LAND TO TABLE Written and photographed by Tim Porter and Farina Wong Kingsley, and produced by Marin Magazine, this is a seasonal cookbook that celebrates the organic farmCounty. Flavor will feature a recipe from Organic Marin each month. The book can be purchased at local bookstores or by

P H OTO: TIM P ORTER

ers and ranchers of Marin

going to marinmagazine. com/organicmarin. 132

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MARINMAGAZINE.COM

FL AVOR

Olema Inn Grilled Fig and Mâche Salad The Olema Inn & Restaurant serves this warm salad with local ﬁgs from Blackberry Farm in Bolinas and Red Hawk Cheese from Cowgirl Creamery. This dish is also delicious with grilled seasonal stone fruits and other washed-rind cheeses. VINAIGRETTE

Prepare a medium ﬁre in a char-

B/d cup sherry vinegar

coal grill, preheat a gas oven to

1 cinnamon stick

375ºF, or heat a grill pan over me-

2 bay leaves

dium heat. Rub 1 teaspoon of oil

6 allspice berries

on the grill or pan. Season the ﬁgs

1 star anise pod

with 1 teaspoon of oil, salt and pep-

1 tablespoon brown sugar

per. Grill the ﬁgs, skin side down,

B/e cup hazelnut oil

until the centers of the ﬁgs begin to

B/e cup olive oil

bubble, 3 to 5 minutes. Repeat on

Salt and freshly ground pepper

the other side. Remove from heat and keep warm.

SALAD

Cut the cheese into thin wedg-

B/c pound mâche

es and place 2 wedges on each of

8 ﬁgs, stemmed and halved

4 salad plates. Place 4 ﬁg halves

Salt and freshly ground pepper

next to the cheese. Combine the

4 ounces Cowgirl Creamery

mâche, onion, fennel and hazel-

Red Hawk Cheese (Port Salut or

nuts in a large bowl. Lightly dress

Pont L’Eveque may be substituted)

the salad, tossing to just coat the

1 small bulb fennel, trimmed, cored,

leaves. Mound in the center of the

and thinly sliced

salad plates. Drizzle the remaining

B/e cup toasted hazelnuts, toasted, skinned and chopped

vinaigrette around the salad plate and serve. Serves 4 as a ﬁrst course.

For the vinaigrette Combine the vinegar and spices

Toasting and Peeling Hazelnuts

in a small stainless-steel pan and

To toast and skin hazelnuts, pre-

simmer over low heat until steam

heat an oven to 350ºF. Place the

rises. Remove from heat, stir in the

hazelnuts on a baking sheet and

brown sugar and let steep for 30

toast in the oven until light golden

minutes. Strain into a small bowl

brown, 7 to 10 minutes. Transfer

and discard the spices. Gradually

the nuts to a large colander and

whisk in the hazelnut and olive oils.

use a tea towel to vigorously rub

Season with salt and pepper to

most of the skins off the hazelnuts.

taste. Set aside.

The skins will fall through the holes in the colander.

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INSIDER’S GUIDE

DINE OUT CORTE MADERA BENISSIMO Italian Benissimo means “really really good” in Italian. From margherita pizza to veal parmigiana to mocha mud pie, Benissimo serves a taste of Italy in a casual neighborhood venue. 18 Tamalpais Dr, 415.927.2316 benissimos.com CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN Cal/Eclectic Be prepared for chaos. Easy place to meet with kids; Mom/Dad can enjoy a tasty Thai crunch salad and decent glass of wine while the little ones feast on basic kid-size portions of pasta and pizza. 347 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.945.0401 IL FORNAIO Italian Sausalito’s Larry Mindel hit a home run with this upscale Italian 23-restaurant franchise. Besides the award-winning breads, pizzas and pastas, the menu boasts a variety of salads and noncarb entrées. 223 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.927.4400, ilfornaio.com IZZY’S STEAKS & CHOP HOUSE American The legendary San Francisco steak house has moved north. Known for great steaks and seafood as well as its ﬁne wine selection, this is a great spot for a group or intimate dinner for two. 55 Tamal Vista, 415.924.3366, izzyssteaksandchops.com LA MAISON DE LA REINE Vietnamese A refreshing change amid the plethora of Italian, Mexican and Chinese options. The crunchy cabbage chicken salad with peanuts, fresh spring

rolls, and combinations of pho are delicious. 346 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.927.0288 MARIN JOE’S Italian Pasta and other Italian dishes have been served up here for over 50 years. Pick from soup, salad, seafood mesquitegrilled or sautéed meats and over 10 pasta options guaranteed to satisfy. Have a drink and hear local musicians at the well-known piano bar. 1585 Casa Buena Dr, 415.924.2081, marinjoesrestaurant.com MAX’S CAFE American Located across from Town Center, Max’s is renowned for casual ambience and large portions. The menu changes with the season but features year-round favorites like matzo ball soup and BLTs. Besides decadent portions or comfort food and desserts, the menu also offers seasonable local produce and healthy items too. 60 Madera Blvd, 415.924.6297, maxsworld.com PACIFIC CATCH Pan-Asian This well-priced fresh grill eatery offers a bounty of Pacific Rim—inspired small or main plates, like the generously portioned wasabi bowls filled with rice (white or brown), veggies and your choice of fresh or raw fish, chicken or beef. 223 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.927.3474, pacificcatch.com P.F. CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO Chinese As of 2008, Marin diners don’t have to travel in order to enjoy the famed orange chicken, salt-and-pepper calamari or Mongolian beef. The restaurant serves lunch, dinner and takeout. 301 Corte Madera Town Center (Corte Madera). 415.413.9890. pfchangs.com RICK’S WINE CELLAR California Located at the same spot as Marin’s first wine bar, which opened back in 1988. Now owned and operated by Rick and Candy Mendell. Their customers call it the “Cheers of Corte Madera.” Offerings include a glass, a flight, or a bottle—all of which pair nicely with their cheeses, salami and hot paninis. 207 Corte Madera Ave, 415.927.9466. rickswinecellar.com

FAIRFAX DEER PARK VILLA Italian This “best place for a party” (Paciﬁc Sun) sits on four garden acres; the Ghiringhelli family has been turning out Italian favorites here since 1937. Come for the famous veal parmesan—or your next big celebration. 367 Bolinas Rd, 415.456.8084, deerparkvilla.com IRON SPRINGS PUB & BREWERY American Grab a beer and a grilled portobello mushroom sandwich—which one Chronicle reviewer calls “the best mushroom dish I have ever tasted”—at the former Ross Valley Brewing Company. 765-A Center Blvd, 415.485.1005, ironspringspub.com PANCHO VILLA’S Mexican A Fairfax favorite for over 30 years. Since 1976, head chef Francisco has been turning out treats like chile relleno stuffed with jack cheese, cilantro and onion and crab enchiladas topped with a mild tomatillo sauce and sour cream. 1625 Sir Frances Drake Blvd, 415.456.4331, panchosfairfax.com SORELLA CAFÉ Italian Not only is the food satisfying and tasty; the service is friendly and the ambience is warm and inviting. 107 Bolinas Rd, 415.258.4520

GREENBRAE CAFE Z American A pleasant surprise in the Bon Air shopping mall. Dishes like grilled chicken pesto pianni and savory crepes have quickly made this intimate spot a local favorite, and inventive meals keep people coming back for more. 282 Bon Air Center, 415.461.9444, cafez.com JASON’S Italian The restaurant’s new Greenbrae location (it was formerly on Andersen Drive in San Rafael), ﬁlls the space that was formerly Giorgio’s. A crowd of regulars enjoy creative seafood dishes with Italian ﬂair. Enjoy the ceviche, crab cakes or blackened salmon on the large outdoor covered patio. 300 Drakes Landing Rd, 415.925.0808, jasonsrestaurant.com WIPEOUT BAR AND GRILL American Belvedere residents Nancy and Scooter Simmons — also the founders of the popular Chevy’s chain — have brought their San Francisco Pier 39 Wipeout Bar and Grill to the Bon Air Center. The location features a full bar, outdoor patio and family-friendly items like burgers, tacos, salads and pizzas in a T-shirt-and-sandals atmosphere. The restaurant also features a private room for parties up to 50 people. 302 Bon Air Center (Greenbrae). 415.461.7400, wipeoutbarandgrill.com

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HALF DAY CAFE American A tucked-away setting of intertwining ivy and great white windows makes the perfect breakfast nook. The setting is casual but elegant; the menu includes lattes, exceptional pastries and much more. Dine on the outdoor patio or inside where the view is just as divine. 848 College Ave, 415.459.0291 MARINMAGAZINE.COM

WILLIE’S CAFE American Stop here for down-toearth atmosphere and reasonable prices. This cozy spot offers breakfast, lunch and dinner; favorites include corn pancakes and veggie frittata. 799 College Ave, 415.455.9455

LARKSPUR CJ CHINESE CUISINE Chinese Great spot to satisfy a craving for wonton soup before catching a show at the Lark Theater; lunch and takeout are popular too. 435 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.0717

Celebrating 30 Years in Marin! Restaurant & Wine Bar

E & 0 TRADING COMPANY Southeast Asian Chef Edwin Cabriloa-Torres is keeping the restaurant’s innovative plates like Indonesian corn fritters and Thai seafood clay pot as tasty as ever. Without reservations, try a spot at the large communal table, or on a warm evening enjoy the patio. 2231 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.925.0303, eotrading.com EMPORIO RULLI Italian Pastry chef Gary Rulli is renowned for his Northern Italian specialties and treats. The Larkspur location (there are three others) is a popular spot for lunch as well as coffee and a sweet. 464 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.7478, rulli.com FABRIZIO RISTORANTE Italian Traditional Italian dishes with an extensive wine list from regions all over Italy; outside seating makes the experience even more special. 455 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.3332 LARK CREEK INN American This ﬂagship eatery for the Lark Creek Restaurant Group opened back in 1989 and was hailed by the New York Times as having “the best home cooking you can imagine.” It remains a perennial special occasion spot and is still known for inventive country cooking—as well as a cozy bar scene. 234 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.7766, larkcreek.com

415-388-9100 1 BlackÄeld Drive, Tiburon, The Cove Shopping Center

award-winning dining

IN THE HEART OF LODI WINE COUNTRY

LEFT BANK RESTAURANT French Known for award-winning French cuisine and its lively brasserie ambience, this corner spot has rated high with local for well over a decade. Those with a petite appetite/budget can opt for happy hour (4–6 M–F) and enjoy appetizers, all priced under three dollars. Outdoor patio dining is popular for lunch or early dinner. 507 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.3331, leftbank.com MARIN BREWING CO American Grab a cold beer made right on site and pair it with ﬁsh and chips—fresh cod dipped in Mt. Tam pale ale batter, served with steak fries and homemade tartar sauce at this classic pub. Other menu options include large portions of pizzas from a wood burning brick oven, sandwiches, burgers, soups, salads and more. 1809 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.461.4677, marinbrewing.com PICCO California Chef and celebrated restaurateur Bruce Hill deserves the accolades he has received for this eclectic shared-plate heaven. Dishes like mini-burgers and seasonally driven menu items, along with risotto made every half hour, keep people coming back. The Picco MARINMAGAZINE.COM

WINE & ROSES is a winner of the Wine Spectator Award and numerous other honors. We invite you to experience our exceptional cuisine utilizing fresh, seasonal ingredients and a wide selection of fine wines. Enjoy an ambiance of comfort and elegance in the historic dining room or outdoor dining on our veranda. O P E N D A I LY F O R L U N C H A N D D I N N E R B R U N C H O N S AT U R DAY S A N D S U N DAY S

winerose.com • 2 0 9 - 3 3 4 - 6 9 8 8 2 5 0 5 W. T U R N E R R O A D , L O D I , C A L I F O R N I A

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Pizzeria and Wine Bar next door is cozy (not many seats) but already famous for its wood-ﬁred pizzas, great wine selection and soft-serve Straus Family Creamery ice cream. 320 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.0300, restaurantpicco.com RUSTIC BAKERY California Organic mouthwatering pastries, breads, and sandwiches are on the menu here. The Meyer lemon mascarpone danish and the bacon, avocado and heirloom tomato sandwich with mesclun are perennial temptations. 1139 Magnolia Ave, 415.925.1556, rusticbakery.com TABLE CAFÉ Indian/American Indian-inspired cafe offers a unique menu featuring entirely organic ingredients. Dishes include seasonal salads, incredible soups and fresh juices. Take home a choice of three or four gourmet dinners freshly packed daily. 1167 Magnolia Ave 415.461.6787 TAM CELLARS Wine bar This wine shop includes an elegant bar with seating for up to 36 people, 30 wines by the glass and tasting flights. Tam Cellars specializes in hard-to-ﬁnd wines and small production wineries. Enjoy a glass or bottle to pair with the selection of appetizers. Live music on Thursdays. 1803 Larkspur Landing, 415.461.9463, tamcellars.com THE MELTING POT French Just across the street from the Larkspur Ferry terminal is a round red-brick haven for fondue fans. Share the “Big Night Out” feast featuring chef’s specialties, or design your own spread with cheese fondue, salad,

choice of meat entrée and chocolate fondue dessert. 125 E. Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.461.6358, themeltingpot.com YANKEE PIER American This family-friendly casual clam shack is harbored in a quaint house built in 1924 as a private residence. Though known for beer-battered ﬁsh’n’ chips, clam chowder and tasty salads, Yankee Pier serves fresh seafood delivered daily from both coasts with special dishes by new chef Brian Beach. 286 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.7676, yankeepier.com

MILL VALLEY BUCKEYE ROADHOUSE American Oysters Bingo, baby back ribs and chili-lime “brick” chicken are a few of the satisfying, comfort-food-type menu items that have made this classic roadhouse a favorite since the ’30s. The warm dark-wooded bar with red leather booths is a popular spot for cocktails, conversations or a light meal. 15 Shoreline Hwy, 415.331.2600, buckeyeroadhouse. com BUNGALOW 44 American Much like sister restaurant Buckeye Roadhouse, Bungalow 44 offers a mean dose of homey carbo- and lipidladen dishes, such as the burger, fried chicken and trufﬂe fries, as well as a few lighter items. The bar is a neighborhood favorite, serving up tasty spirits and eye candy. 44 E. Blithedale Ave, 415.381.2500, bungalow44.com

CACTUS CAFE AND TAQUERIA Mexican Recently under new management; the food is better than ever. They still offer the lunchtime bargain burrito, as well as ﬁsh tacos and Caesar salads with grilled chicken or shrimp. Be sure to opt for the diablo sauce on enchiladas and burritos. 393 Miller Ave, 415.388.8226 CAFE DEL SOUL California Beware of addiction. Once you stop in for the deliciously fresh Hummus Yummus wrap, you’ll have to come back to sample the chipotle Sunrise Rice Bowl; then it will be the Thai It Up wrap with peanut sauce washed down with ginger limeade that brings you back, and so on. Casual lunch spot, great for takeout. 247 Shoreline Hwy, 415.388.1852, cafedelsoul.net DIPSEA CAFE Comfort One word: biscuits. This longtime breakfast spot has been serving up tasty pancakes and egg dishes with homemade biscuits since 1986. Try a biscuit with a poached egg, a biscuit with sausage, or just plain butter. Lunch specialties include BLTs and tuna melts and generous Cobb salads. Now serving dinner. 200 Shoreline Hway. 415.381.0298, dipseacafe.com EL PASEO French Keiko Takahashi, a prominent Tokyo chef known for her modern French cuisine, transports her ﬂair to Mill Valley. With a cottagelike feeling, this fine dining restaurant serves meals that are nothing less than exquisite. Reservations recommended. 17 Throckmorton Ave, 415.388.0741, elpaseorestaurant.com

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JANUARY 26-MAY 20, 2009 7 NIGHTS TO 121 NIGHTS

aboard the seven seas mariner • The world’s only all - balcony, all - suite vessels • Award-winning menus including Le Cordon Bleu® Signatures Restaurants, and open - seating dining

• Complimentary spirits and wines throughout your cruise • All onboard gratuities included • Fantastic lecturers and hosts including Jean-Michel Cousteau, Buzz Aldrin, Max Mayfield, Don Shula on selected departures to name a few

• Personalized experiences with The Regent Travel ConciergeSM • 6 - time winner of Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler Awards

exclusive onboard amenities on most departures: • Shoreside excursion by private car • Shipboard credits • Complimentary shore events in select port cities 835 Fifth Ave San Rafael, CA 94901 • Free Air on select segments www.Froschvacations.com • Experienced FROSCH Travel Host 800-949-0630 or 877-743-7810 CST#2079194-50 • Complimentary hosted cocktail parties Ships’ Registries: Bahamas and Bermuda. © 2008 Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

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FRANTOIO RISTORANTE ITALIANO Italian Known for its in-house olive press, superior olive oil and excellent Italian cuisine, this is a great location for large groups. Chef Duilio Valenti creates authentic Italian cuisine. Ask to sit in the press room for private parties. 152 Shoreline Hwy, 415.289.5777, frantoio.com INDIA PALACE Indian Known as “that great restaurant in the Travelodge,” India Palace is a favorite among the takeout crowd; however, eating on site is a treat too. 707 Redwood Hwy, 415.388.3350 JOE’S TACO LOUNGE Mexican A long time local favorite, Joe’s serves up regular fare such as tasty ﬁsh tacos, burritos and enchiladas as well as more unusual items like Mexican pizza, tofu salad, burgers and crab tostados. Colorful interior and (usually) quick service makes this a fun, easy stop. And if there are too many unsupervised kids for a peaceful meal, takeout is easy too. Alone? Grab a magazine and seat at the counter and enjoy the action along with an agave margarita. 382 Miller, 415.383.8164 LA GINESTRA Italian A favorite family spot for over 30 years; getting a table or booth can take a while but the bar area is a great place to meet before dinner. While this old-school Italian eatery is known for traditional pastas, veal dishes, pizzas and dry martinis, the familiar wait staff is also part of the attraction. 127 Throckmorton Ave, 415.388.0224

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LUCINDA’S MEXICAN FOOD Mexico Singled out for “best burrito” by the Paciﬁc Sun in 2005, this is a prime place to grab lunch and head back to the ofﬁce. 930 Redwood Highway, 415.388.0754 MAMA’ S ROYAL CAFE American No one should miss this fabulous kitsch-decorated spot. Appetizing crepes, brioche French toast and other breakfast treats are served all day; stay awhile and try the sandwiches for lunch. 387 Miller Ave, 415.388.3261 MARIA MARIA Mexican The menu at Maria Maria draws from diverse regional cuisines of Mexico, including slow braised duck tacos, guacamole prepared tableside and Guajillo Marinated Red Snapper Filet. 651 E. Blithedale, 415.381.1070. mariamariarestaurants.com MILL VALLEY COFFEE SHOP American Sure, it could use a steam clean, but the regulars keep coming back for the pancakes and eggs. Great place to bring the kids. 4 Locust Ave, 415.388.6958 PIAZZA D’ANGELO Italian It’s always a party at this long-standing hot spot. A great place to meet up with friends for a fresh plate of pasta, zuppa di pesce or pollo novello, or make some new friends at the bar. 22 Miller Ave, 415.388.2000, piazzadangelo.com PIATTI RISTORANTE AND BAR Italian Reopened, after an extensive remodel, with chef Chris

Fernandez on board, leading the kitchen with a menu coinciding with seasonal food from local producers. The crudo and pizza are not to be missed. 625 Redwood Hwy, 415.380.2525, piatti. com RAIN TREE CAFÉ American/Home-style In the newly remodeled Strawberry Village shopping center, wonderful American fare: soups, salads, burgers, sandwiches and gourmet crepes. Savor the Mill Valley Crepe: smoked salmon, capers, spinach, and Dijon in a fresh warm wrap. Breakfast is served all day. 610 Strawberry Village, 415.380.8886, caferaintree.com SMALL SHED FLATBREADS California As a slow food chef, Ged Robertson uses only local, mostly organic ingredients. Crowd favorites include the Mt. Tamal-Pie, a delicious fresh salad atop a flatbread. 17 Madrona St, 415.383.4200, smallshed.com THEP LELA Thai This jewel is tucked away in the back of the new Strawberry Village. Diners come for the tasty kee mao noodles, pad thai, fresh rolls and extensive bar menu. It’s also a great place for lunch. 615 Strawberry Village, 415.383.3444 VASCO Italian Whether you’re at a table, the bar or the back counter, you can expect an intimate and tasty dining experience at this one-room trattoria. Don’t miss trying one of the restaurant’s pasta dishes or thin-crust pizzas. 106 Throckmorton Ave, 415.381.3343

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larkspur landing 415.925.0303 sf union square 415.693.0303 downtown san jose 408.938.4100

NOVATO BOCA STEAK & SEAFOOD South American Serving up an Argentinean-inspired menu in Novato with much ado, House specialties include provolenta, gambas al ajillo, and empanadas, as well as hand-cut (grass- and grain-fed) steaks. 340 Ignacio Blvd, 415.883.0901, bocasteak.com CACTI GRILL American Grill A former bell tower church, the family-friendly restaurant now boasts a covered patio and serves a 21-day dry-aged steak and filet mignon enchiladas. 1200 Grant Ave, 415.898.2234, cactigrill.com CHRISTOPHER’S Italian/American A hidden place worth the effort to ﬁnd in Bel Marin Keys. Christopher, the owner, offers a casual menu of innovative “Italian”-type fare. 8 Commercial Blvd, 415.382.8488 WILDFOX American Perched on the hillside off Highway 101, this rustic mesquite grill offers a menu full of comfort food and drinks, like the smooth cosmos, and seafood risotto, with bits of butternut squash. In the mood for a cigar? The restaurant has an extensive list. 225 Alameda del Prado, 415.883.9125, wildfoxrestaurant.com

ROSS CAFE MARMALADE French This quaint oneroom coffeehouse is centrally situated near Ross Common. Get there early for the full selection of pastries to enjoy with fresh-squeezed orange juice. 22 Ross Common, 415.461.2205 MARCHÉ AUX FLEURS French This gem of a restaurant serves up locally farmed produce, wild and fresh seafood and free-range meats prepared with an artisan’s touch. The wine and beer list are extensive. 23 Ross Common, 415.925.9200, marcheauxﬂeursrestaurant.com TRATTORIA FRESCO Italian Every neighborhood deserves a one-room trattoria like this one. The service is friendly and the farmers’-market-fresh food is fabulous—especially the gnocchi. 13 Ross Common, 415.464.0915

SAN ANSELMO

gift cards available in store or online at eotrading.com

AVA California Chef Dan Baker, of Marché aux Fleurs in Ross, has another winner with AVA, which features a California-only wine list and a menu where nearly all the ingredients come from within 100 miles—if not the Marin County Farmers’ Market. The small menu includes seasonal flatbreads, pasta and six seasonal main dishes. 636 San Anselmo Ave, 415.453.3407 CUCINA RESTAURANT AND WINE BAR Italian Proprietor Jack Krietzman (of Pacific Heights’ Jackson Fillmore) has brought Milan to Marin with his 42-seat family restaurant. Relax with a glass of wine and have a slice from the to-die-for thin pizzas, topped with items like trufﬂe oil and fontina cheese. 510 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.2942

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DEBBIE DOES DESSERT Bakery Besides sweets, the menu offers tapas on weekends and savory dishes such as grilled duck aux pêches with lavender honey sauce on galette de mais. Brunch served on Saturday and Sunday from 9 til 2. 556 San Anselmo Ave, 415.721.2901, debbiedoesdessert.com FORK California This intimate spot was awarded “Top Food in the Bay Area” by Zagat for 2007. Opt for the ﬁve-course tasting menu or seasonal à la carte options. The three-course special for $20 is available during the ﬁrst seating. 198 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.453.9898, marinfork.com INSALATA’S Mediterranean Award-winning chef Heidi Insalata Krahling offers Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes prepared with local organic produce and artisan meats. 120 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.457.7700, insalatas.com LOCOCO’S PIZZERIA Italian Worth driving to from all over Marin, and it’s an easy place to meet with friends and family. The pizza crust is divine as is the house salad. Easy spot to come with the entire family.Closed Mondays. 638 San Anselmo Ave, 415.453.1238, lococossananselmo.com TACO JANE’S Mexican Named after the owner’s mother, this casual but colorful place welcomes the whole family. Don’t miss out on Jane’s handmade agave margarita or griddled plantains with Jane’s crema. 21 Tamalpais Ave, 415.454.6562, tacojanes.com

SAN RAFAEL BOMBAY GARDEN Indian The restaurant offers a large menu of richly flavored Northern and Southern Indian Cuisine. There are often Bollywood movies or videos playing on a ﬂat-screen TV to add a little entertainment to the meal. 909 Fourth St, 415.459.9555 dinebombaygarden.com CAFE GRATITUDE Raw The waiters might push the affirmations theme a bit too much, but the tasty (and healthy) food is worth it. Besides the knowledge you’re supporting local farmers and sustainable agriculture, the raw food and vegan samosas are hard to resist. Best to bring a group and sample lots of items on the menu. 2200 Fourth St, 415.824.4652, withthecurrent.com CREPEVINE American Bistro/Creperie Offering casual dining, outdoor seating and a diverse menu of savory crepes (such as the Italian crepe ﬁlled with roasted peppers, eggplant, onions, artichoke hearts, tomato sauce and mozzarella) and salads and desserts. Sweet and savory crepes are available all day long, as is breakfast. 908 Fourth St, 415.257.8822 MULBERRY STREET PIZZERIA Italian Chef Ted Rowe won first place in the Food Network Television Pizza Challenge with his Mushroom Lover’s Pizza—sautéed mushrooms in a creamy garlic sauce atop a fresh pizza crust. Located across from the Smith Ranch Road movie theaters, it’s a great place to grab dinner and a movie. 101 Smith Ranch Rd, 415.472.7272, mulberry-street-pizzeria.com MARINMAGAZINE.COM

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Shopping without pants on. By Bryan Flannery

SABOR OF SPAIN Spanish Named Best Tapas/ Small Dishes restaurant in Marin by the Paciﬁc Sun in 2006, this Spanish-wine bar is a great place for a date or a big party. 1301 Fourth St, 415.457.8466, saborofspain.com SAN RAFAEL JOE’S Italian Guido and Theresa Farina are now running this Marin institution, which has been famous for serving up sophisticated yet casual Italian fare since 1947. 931 Fourth St, 415.456.2425, srjoes.com SEAFOOD PEDDLER Seafood A great place to seek out fresh seafood in a warm and inviting environment. Varieties of East and West Coast fish flown in daily. Dine indoors or out, or better yet, rent out the banquet room for a party. 100 Yacht Club Dr, 415.460.6669, seafoodpeddler.com

Of all the neat things about the internet, shopping in bed tops my list. You too? Well good, because this is why I’ve just made all of my perfectly aged USDA Prime beef cuts, available on-line to all of my loyal customers who happen to not be wearing pants. In fact, you can order all of your favorite cuts and have them packed tight as a drum and shipped 2nd Day Air from your jammies – doing a crossword puzzle, reading a good book or snoring like a freight train. From Pittsburg to Peoria to Provo and both Portlands (OR and ME), you’re good. So if you’re out of local range yourself, or just want to place an order in the comfort of your own undies, heck, call me. Or go to: www.bryan’sﬁnefoods.com. As for pants or no pants, totally your call.

Bryan’s Fine Foods Corte Madera Town Center

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SOL FOOD Puerto Rican With south-of-theborder treats like yellow rice, beans, plantains and authentic Puerto Rican dishes, this tiny one-room eatery on Fourth Street just off Highway 101 can be hard to get into, but worth the wait. 732 Fourth St, and 901 Lincoln Ave, 415.451.4765 SUSHI TO DAI FOR Japanese Snagging a seat in this popular sushi spot can be a challenge, but patience will be rewarded with tasty and fresh sashimi, unique sushi rolls and great prices. 869 Fourth St, 415.721.0392

SAUSALITO ANGELINO RESTAURANT Italian Father-andson chefs Pasquale and Alfredo Ancona offer handmade pastas and seasonal antipasti at this authentic Italian restaurant, which has been serving food from the Campania region for the past 24 years. 621 Bridgeway, 415.331.5225, angelinorestaurant.com ARAWAN THAI RESTAURANT Thai Known for its consistently tasty Thai food and efﬁcient, gracious service. For light fare try the imperial or Siamese rolls (vegetarian), or dig into the delicious pad thai noodles or garlic and pepper prawns. Arawan Thai has been a local favorite for over nine years. 47 Caledonia St, 415.332.0882 arawan.com CAFFÉ DIVINO Tuscan Locals come for the tasty pastas and salads, as well as coffee drinks in a funky one-room setting. Free delivery in Sausalito. 37 Caledonia St, 415.331.9355, caffedivinosausalito.com

served until 2. 1917 Bridgeway, 415.332.4575, fredscoffeeshop.com GAYLORD INDIA Indian Rated a “Restaurant of Excellence” by Zagat, Gaylord’s new location in Sausalito also features million-dollar views of San Francisco and the bay. All the dishes including samosas, curries and tandoori are made with fresh local produce, seafood and artisan meats. 201 Bridgeway, 415.339.0172, gaylord.com KITTI’S PLACE Pan-Asian Watch out Comforts (aka the best chicken salad in town), Kitty’s serves up a delicious crunchy fresh chicken salad, as well as light tasty spring rolls too. Popular with the lunch and take-out dinner crowd. 3001 Bridgeway, 415.331.0390 LE GARAGE French Olivier Souvestre left his position at executive chef at San Francisco’s Chez Papa Bistro to open his new waterfront café in Sausalito with partner Bruno Denis. Le Garage features standard french bistro fare like croque-monsieur and brunch items like eggs Benedict, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and a large selection of charcuterie. 85 Liberty Ship Way, 415.332.5625 PARADISE BAY American Enjoy the sun or dine under the stars at this waterfront restaurant. Locals say they come back for the organic beef sandwiches and fresh Maine lobster clubs. 1200 Bridgeway, 415.331.3226, paradisebaysausalito.com POGGIO Italian A great place to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a night out. Executive chef Peter McNee cooks up delicious Northern Italian cuisine using fresh and local ingredients, including produce from the nearby Poggio chef garden. 777 Bridgeway, 415.332.7771, poggiotratoria.com SAYLOR’S RESTAURANT AND BAR California/ Mexican Owner and chef Sean Saylor has created a new menu, keeping some traditional favorites, and has moved the restaurant to a new location. The large menu is impressive and the bar’s selection of over 100 tequilas is hard to beat. 2009 Bridgeway, 415.332.1512, saylorsrestaurantandbar.com SCOMA’S Seafood Whether it’s for the view of San Francisco or the historical background, visitors ﬂock to this location for a romantic setting. The array of fresh seafood and meat dishes are appetizing as the Italian pasta dishes. 588 Bridgeway, 415.332.9551, scomassausalito.com

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

SUSHI RAN Japanese Fresh, innovative small plates are just big enough to share, the traditional sushi is melt-in-your-mouth good and the wine, cocktail and sake lists keep the pickiest barﬂy well satisﬁed. Even the prices don’t deter the herd of sushi enthusiasts, who line up nightly to partake; reservations required in main room. 107 Caledonia St, 415.332.3620, sushiran.com

FRED’S Coffee Shop A local hot spot for over 40 years. Don’t miss the famous deepfried French toast or the traditional Swedish breakfast. Not a breakfast person? The bacon bleu cheeseburger on a sourdough roll with fries is delicious too. Open daily 7 to 3. Breakfast

WELLINGTON’S California British transport Jeremy John and his wife Jill have created an expansive (2,400-square-foot) wine bar with a homey feel, board games, views of the bay and a worldly cellar featuring affordable bottles and special reserves. The menu features wines by MARINMAGAZINE.COM

the glass for $5 to $20 and tasting ﬂights of any three wines for $12. 300 Turney St (Sausalito). 415.331.9463, wellingtonswine.com WINSHIPS RESTAURANT American The morethan-four-decades-old nautical-themed restaurant is luring locals and tourists with hearty breakfasts and lunch options like tender fried calamari, clam strips, mussels and a giant prawn cocktail. 670 Bridgeway, 415.332.1454, winships.com

How do well ow n k you in? a M r

TIBURON THE CAPRICE California Expansive Angel Island and San Francisco Skyline views and an intimate atmosphere, make this waterfront restaurant a top pick for romance. Beyond these attractions, locals come for the food, including a three-to-ﬁve-course menu created by executive chef Gregg Sessler —who according to Michael Bauer “has crafted a menu that can stand up to the big boys.” 2000 Paradise Dr., 415.435.3400, thecaprice.com COTTAGE EATERY California This one-room, recently remodeled eatery is the latest restaurant addition to Tiburon’s Ark Row. Having opened to rave reviews, owners Edward Carew and Jennifer Rebman, both formerly of New York—each with stints cooking at Gramercy Tavern—are attracting regulars with seasonal entrees like grilled branzino served with boulanger potatoes, watercress and a taggiasca olive vinaigrette and crispy suckling pig with Umbrian lentils, braised romaine, tomato and saba. Open Thursday through Sunday. 114 Main St, 415.789.5636, thecottageeatery.com GINZA Japanese The old Tiburon Tommie’s space on Main Street has been buffed and polished and reopened as a sleek, upscale sushi spot with the famous waterfront San Francisco views. This intimate setting offers menu items like sliced yellowtail, avocado, radish sprout, tobiko and spicy ponzu sauce as well as a variety of tempura and terriyaki dishes. The double hamachi roll is not to be missed. 41 Main St, 415.789.5123, ginzasushi-tiburon.com GUAYMAS Mexican Situated right next to the Tiburon ferry terminal on the waterfront. The touch-it-you’re-so-close city views and outdoor seating makes it a great place to bring visitors on a warm summer night. Happy hour is 5 to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Menu includes specialties like puerco macho—pork loin chop with grilled plantain, topped with an ancho chile, garlic and onion sauce. 5 Main St, 415.435.6300, guaymasrestaurant.com MILANO Italian Located in the Cove Shopping Center, this family-owned neighborhood spot is known for its pasta and friendly service. A good place to take the kids—or catering option for your next birthday party. 1 Blackﬁeld Dr, 415.388.9100 NEW MORNING CAFE American Sit outside at a picnic table or indoors at this casual cafe. On a sunny morning, tables will be filled with locals enjoying the sun and extensive breakfast menu; lunch served as well. Locals say the bread pudding can’t be passed up. 1696 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.4315 MARINMAGAZINE.COM

CALL THE SHOT! Call the Shot has a simple premise: Tell us what this is a picture of and win a $100 gift certiﬁcate for E & O Trading in Larkspur Landing.

ROONEY’S CAFÉ & GRILL American If you’re old enough to remember Cheers on prime time, this is your dinner spot. There’s not a long bar, nor a bartender named Sam (he’s across the street); however, there is an undeniable neighborhood feeling in this one-room cottage dining room. 38 Main St, 415.435.1911 SAM’S ANCHOR CAFE American Everyone knows Sam’s deck is the prime spot for brunch on a lazy sunny Sunday, and its bar is the town’s historic watering hole, but Sam’s is also a great place for lunch or dinner. Enjoy trans-fat-free calamari, fresh ﬁsh, seasonal salads and pastas. 27 Main St, 415.435.4527, samscafe.com SERVINO RISTORANTE Italian With people like Warren Buffett and Bill Gates raving about his pizza, Angelo Servino is doing something right. Some people come for the spacious and popular bar; some people come for the great food and friendly service; the titans of industry, it seems, opt for the pepperoni. Spacious bar, and weekend music is also a big draw. 9 Main St, 415.435.2676, servino.com SWEDEN HOUSE BAKERY Swedish A cozy spot and local favorite, the blue storefront opens into bay front windows with sweeping views of Racoon Straits and Angel Island. The menu is straight from Stockholm with Swedish and Danish pastries in the morning and open-faced sandwiches, Swedish meatloaf and light salads for lunch. 35 Main St, 415.435.9767 THREE DEGREES California Opt for the outside patio, white tablecloths in the dining room, or

To win, you must be speciﬁc. Sure, it’s a gazebo, but what city is it in? Even better, give us the name of the park. Hint: The street leading up to the gazebo shares the name of Marin’s most famous mountain. Here’s how to play: Go to marinmagazine.com, agree to the rules and submit your answer. Simple. We’ll choose the winner randomly from all the correct answers. Good luck!

And the winner is: Jane Cook of Corte Madera won August’s Call the Shot by identifying the grasshopper on the roof of Green Jeans Garden Supply in Mill Valley.

the swank modern setting of the bar, and enjoy the local, seasonal menu options like grilled Niman Ranch New York “cowboy” strip steak or seasonal risotto. 1651 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.5996, threedegreesrestaurant.com

WEST MARIN DRAKES BEACH CAFE Local If you’re OK with the long drive, you can’t beat the view and the fresh local ingredients (Inverness). Walk on the beach after lunch. 1 Drakes Beach Rd, 415.669.1297, drakesbeachcafe.com OLEMA INN California One of the most charming settings around, this inn and restaurant is a great destination lunch spot for a Sunday drive, or dinner Wednesday through Sunday. The menu includes imaginative combinations using regional and organic greens (Olema). 10000 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.663.9559, theolemainn.com PARKSIDE CAFE American Most people know it as the ultimate breakfast spot (think Guatemalan scramble or wafﬂe with blood orange-strawberry compote and whipped cream, alfresco) but lunch and dinners are great here too (Stinson). 43 Arenal Ave, 415.868.1272, parksidecafe.com PINE CONE DINER American Just off the main road, Joannie Kwit has re-created the ultimate neighborhood diner. Vintage china and homemade curtains complement the eclectic but homey menu featuring local fare (Point Reyes Station). 60 Fourth St, 415.663.1536, pineconediner.com MARIN OCTOBER 2008

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ADVE RT IS IN G P R OMOT ION

adl i b

MARIN ADVERTISERS SPEAK UP

Scooter Simmons

Cameron Carr

Adam Bohlke

Wipeout Bar and Grill, Greenbrae

Budget Blinds, Sausalito

Bay Area Moisture Control, Novato

Wipeout Bar & Grill pays homage to the California

“Budget Blinds of Southern Marin is a locally

Bay Area Moisture Control specializes in mold pre-

surfing scene. “Our goal is to offer a high-quality

owned franchise that offers custom window cover-

vention and moisture control. “Moisture can wreak

product at a reasonable price in a relaxed, fun en-

ings from trusted brand-name companies such as

havoc on a beautiful home, costing home owners

vironment,” says founder and Marin local Scooter

Hunter Douglas, Conrad, Castec, Springs, Lafayette

thousands in repairs and decreased property val-

Simmons. Specialties include burgers, tacos, sal-

and Norman Shutters,” says owner Cameron Carr.

ues,” says president Adam Bohlke. “Home owners

ads, pizza and more. Customers can also take in big

“Our array of products include Roman shades, wo-

often neglect in sub areas, basements and crawl

wave surf contests and sporting events simultane-

ven woods, shutters, drapes, honeycomb blinds,

spaces until structural or health problems occur

ously on the restaurant’s numerous flat screens.

verticals, wood and faux wood blinds, window film,

as a result in moisture damage.” Founded in 2003,

sisal rugs and even bedding and pillows.”

the company provides a simple solution to an old

Brieﬂy describe your business process.

problem: how do you keep the moisture in your

We start by creating concepts we would like to go

What is your competitive edge?

crawl space from entering your living space? The

to, then strive to provide a consistently very good

We offer a free in-home design consultation and

company specializes in wet basement repair, crawl

dining experience at a great value in an entertain-

many other companies do not. We come to your

space ventilation and moisture control.

ing environment using well-trained and cared-for

home or business office with our product samples

employees.

so you can see how your selections will look in your

Describe your design philosophy.

own environment. We measure and provide an es-

As a builder for over 24 years, I see my mission as

timate on-site. No need to go back and forth from a

creating healthier homes, one at a time. Approxi-

store. (Saves you time and gas!)

mately 30 to 40 percent of the air in your home

Working with a spouse or in a family environment

comes from your crawl space or subfloor area. If it’s

can be challenging but ultimately ‘living’ with your

What makes your work worthwhile?

under your home, it’s in your home. We work hard

business partners allows everyone to focus on the

Helping customers find beautiful solutions at af-

to fix the problem.

success of the business.

fordable prices. Because we represent so many different manufacturers, we can find products that fit

Describe your dream client.

What makes you excel at what you do?

anyone’s budget, from high end to more affordable.

A client who is informed and interested in protect-

Having grown up in the restaurant business, and

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cheese, then moving through all aspects of opera-

budget.

Which product or service (that you offer) is your favorite?

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MARIN OCTOBER 2008

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MARINMAGAZINE.COM

M ICR OC LIM AT E

CORINTHIAN ISLAND Marin’s tiniest community is a true tale of two cities BY JIM WOOD

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTOS TIM PORTER

MARIN

OCTOBER 2008

149

et this: diminutive Corinthian Island has only 58 homes on three streets (Alcatraz, Bellevue and Eastview avenues); it isn’t an island (150 years ago, possibly — not now) but rath-

er a somewhat steep 15-acre waterside hill adjoining Tiburon and connected to Belvedere by a spit of land. Strangest of all, it encompasses the two municipalities—a third of it lies in Tiburon, two thirds in Belvedere. As best as anyone knows, the Belvedere-Tiburon border runs between Eastview and Alcatraz Avenues. “I’ve heard that the kitchen of one Corinthian Island house is in Tiburon, and its living room is in Belvedere,” says Joan Linn Bekins with a laugh in her voice. That is not the case for the home where she and her husband Don live (yes, they’re of the Bekins Van Lines family): “We’ve been on the Belvedere side of Corinthian Island for 44 years— and love it.” Frederick Kelley, who along with brother James was a developer of the island, built the Bekinses’ home 100 years ago. Like most in this hillside area, it’s a multilevel residence. “Counting the boathouse, we have seven levels,” says Joan, “though we do all of our ‘living’ on three floors.” There’s little doubt Corinthian Island’s appeal is twofold: its views

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MARINMAGAZINE.COM

and its convenience. “I can walk to the post office in five minutes and

resident of late is Philippe Kahn, the Swiss immigrant who arrived pen-

to the library in ten minutes,” says Paul Kraus, who’s lived here nearly

niless in Silicon Valley and, among other technological advances, found

50 years; other residents likewise exult in being just a quick stroll from

a way to blend a digital camera with a handheld phone. Along with his

downtown Tiburon and the San Francisco or the Corinthian Yacht Club.

wife, the equally talented tech innovator Sonia Lee, Kahn created an en-

Corinthian Island homes overlook either picturesque Belvedere Cove or

vironmental foundation and raised four children; on his own, he plays

historic Tiburon, and almost all have a partial to full-on view of San

the flute on an almost professional level and leads Pegasus Racing, a

Francisco Bay, including its bridges and the city skyline.

championship-caliber ocean sailing team.

Once named Valentine Island, the ersatz isle got its name from

Over a year ago, Kahn bought the property adjacent to his own with the

a group of amateur sailing enthusiasts who in 1886 founded the

intent of connecting the two homes—but the town of Belvedere balked at

Corinthian Yacht Club (CYC) in what the founders believed was “the fin-

the concept. So he’s currently building a new home next door with the in-

est spot on the bay.” As Marin historian Branwell Fanning explains, “The

tent of making it the primary family residence. “It’s common knowledge in

name ‘Corinthian” was intended to evoke the image of ‘ancient ama-

the neighborhood that once they finish the new home, the one they’re living

teur athletes.’” From that came the Kelley brothers’ Corinthian Island

in now will house crews of Kahn’s numerous racing sailboats,” says Dave

Company, which started developing the land behind the clubhouse in

Gilbert, owner of Tiburon Land Company, a local residential realty firm.

1907. A few years later, that original clubhouse burned down and July

Six months into the new home project, only its retaining walls and

4, 1912, marked the dedication of a sparkling new white clubhouse that

foundation have been completed because, due to Corinthian Island’s nar-

still stands proudly on the eastern lip of Corinthian Island. The CYC is

row one-way roads, most materials must be barged to the construction

the second oldest yacht club on the West Coast.

site (rumors claim $20 million has been expended to date). Meanwhile,

“A lot of interesting characters live here,” says Maria Woodward, who

Kahn has earned the appreciation of his neighbors by dredging a chan-

has lived in what she calls “a little cottage over the water” on Corinthian

nel into Belvedere Cove so it can accommodate sailboats in the neigh-

Island since 1965. Then Woodward quickly and lightheartedly changes the

borhood of 60 feet in length.

subject to protect her neighbors’ privacy. However, in the age of Google,

One grateful neighbor will be the new owner of a residence currently

remaining a recluse here is nearly impossible. Just a little online snoop-

listed by Gilbert’s Tiburon Land Company. “This home started life over a

ing reveals that Woodward herself wrote last year’s The Ghosts of Belvedere

century ago as the Belvedere Fishing Club,” claims Gilbert. “Then some-

and Tiburon, a musical that played to SRO crowds at the Corinthian Yacht

time in the 1950s, it began its transformation into an eccentric 3,600-

Club. Meanwhile, Kate and Cam Baker—who live atop Corinthian Island

square-foot, four-bedroom, four-bath home.” The property’s current price:

in the brown shingled home that harbors the island’s only pool—are part

$4.75 million. Its amenities include the oft-touted walking distance from

owners of Larkmead Vineyards in Calistoga. And half a block down the

nearby bars and restaurants and the two yacht clubs. “Other consequences

hill from them, where a colorful naval captain named Elmer Towle resid-

aside,” Gilbert points out; “its price could be less than defending a DUI.”

ed for many years, now live Javier and Rose Burillo — he’s the developer of Las Ventanas, the award-winning resort in Baja.

At press time, Corinthian Island had only two other properties listed. One is the Bekinses’ landmark home featuring a lovely view of Belvedere

In addition to Google, most people on the Tiburon Peninsula read

Cove and a potential for six bedrooms. “We’ve listed it at $8 million,”

The Ark, the weekly newspaper whose co-publisher, Barbara Gnoss, hap-

states David Kirchhoff of Decker Bullock Sotheby’s International Realty.

pens to live on the island’s Alcatraz Avenue with her husband George,

The other listing is a building site offered by Craig Swanson, also of Decker

a San Francisco attorney. However, Corinthian Island’s most talk-about

Bullock. It has “a view over Tiburon to the open space and includes approved plans by former Tiburon mayor Miles Berger for a modern four-bedroom, four-bath, multistory home,” Swanson says. This property’s price: $900,000. Needless to say, Corinthian Island is not your typical cookie-cutter community.

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

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OCTOBER 2008

151

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Stacey Lamirand

“There came a point in my career where I decided I did not want to compromise on anything — I found it at McGuire. Top-tier management and unparalleled support that allows me to focus on serving my clients with uncompromising quality and care. Our affiliation with Luxury Portfolio gives us unmatched global market reach. I’m exceptionally proud to be a part of the McGuire Marin team. I invite you to contact me directly to learn more about the extraordinary power of my partnership with McGuire.” —Stacey Lamirand 415.389.5630 • SLamirand@mcguire.com

xperience. Excellence. There are reasons many of the best agents and discriminating clients choose to work with McGuire. Legacy: one family, three generations — since 1919. Luxury and Leadership: the premiere luxury real estate company in the Bay Area — an afﬁliation with the most powerful real estate network in the world. It’s never just a house to us — it’s always a home. Discover more about how we endeavor to make McGuire the Home for your life.

s t a c e y l a m i r a n d . m c g u i re . c o m

Home for your life. sm

SAN FRANCISCO

MARIN

PENINSULA

Mill Valley Luxury

If golf and tennis are your passion, you won’t have to go far. If enjoying the beauty of green rolling hills at the foot of Mount Tamalpais gives you serenity, you need only to look out your windows. If sitting pool side, conversing with friends and family while you dine al fresco relaxes you, then you are in the right place. Offered at $4,490,000 • • • •

5 bedrooms Master suite 5.5 bathrooms Formal living room

• • • •

Formal dining room Gourmet kitchen Pool and Patio 3-car parking

Stacey Lamirand 415.389.5630 slamirand@mcguire.com mcguire.com/marin

Belvedere

Tiburon

San Rafael

$9,950,000

$7,100,000

$6,500,000

Breathtaking WATERFRONT property that boasts nearly 5,500 sq. ft. of living space and over 5,000 sq. ft. decks. Melissa Bradley (415) 531-3567

At the top of Mt. Tiburon is a spectacular ridge of homes, standing out among them is this distinctive property. Bruce Berlinger (415) 269-1666

Approx. 10,000 sq. ft. home on approx. 10 acres. Amazing bay views. Melissa Bradley (415) 531-3567

Kentfield

Tiburon

$5,895,000

$3,399,000

Gorgeous Craftsman (nearly new home) in upper Kent Woodlands on approx. 8 acres of land. Melissa Bradley (415) 531-3567

Beautiful, private and architecturally distinctive home with gorgeous Bay and City views. Laura Schifrin (415) 515-9988

Sausalito

San Rafael

$3,290,000 A rare opportunity to own in one of the most coveted locations in Tiburon. Magnificent views of San Francisco.

Lyndasue Johnson

(415) 515-7010

San Rafael

$2,599,000

$2,600,000

$2,595,000

Dramatic architecture, fabulous lot, stunning views, desirable location! Minutes to San Francisco! Deborah Solvason (415) 519-3555

Beautiful Country Club Estate with Tennis Court and Pool. 6BD/5BA, one level home on approx. 1 acre. Melissa Bradley (415) 531-3567

New construction, approx. 1 acre in Los Ranchitos. Views of the bay and hills to the east. Suzanne Ferrari (415) 302-8171

San Rafael

Tiburon

Larkspur

$2,495,000

$2,450,000

$1,650,000

Gated Estate Property with Guest House & Pool. Wonderful 5BR/4BA home. Melissa Bradley (415) 531-3567

Expanded and extensively remodeled, located in the Reedlands, this home is ready to move in. (415) 435-2705

Restored Beauty in Downtown Larkspur! Renovated 3+BD 2.5 BA. Approx. 2100 sq. ft. --modern touches and vintage feel.

Heidi Ellyn

Please visit us at: www.BradleyRealEstate.com

(415) 786-6807

San Rafael

Tiburon

Nicasio

$2,349,000

$2,295,000

$2,279,000

Hampton’s-style 5BR/4BA extraordinary residence with classic lines & a dramatic circular foyer that is open & elegant. Joey DiBono (415) 279-1184

Remodeled approx. 3,150 sq. ft. home, all on one level! 60 ft. boat dock. Melissa Bradley (415) 531-3567

A jewel of a home sits high above the road overlooking beautiful Nicasio Valley with privacy, beauty & elegance. Sandra Fitting (415) 302-2605

San Rafael

Tiburon

Mill Valley

$2,199,000

$2,150,000

$2,095,000

Gorgeous! An elegant home, set back on a large, private, beautifully manicured lot. Nitza Berardi (415) 533-5906

Stunning views from almost every room, featuring 3BD/2.5 BA. Excellent floor plan. (415) 435-2705

Extensively remodeled 5BD/3.5 BA boasts glorious views of Mt. Tam, the Great Valley and Tiburon.

Mill Valley

Sausalito

(415) 455-1080

$1,925,000

$1,799,000

$1,549,000

3 parcels, approx. one acre estate. This stunning home boasts commanding views across the Bay. 4BD/2.5BA. Rose De Angelo (415) 686-1380

Top of the World Views! Dramatic Bay view home, built by the developer of Post Ranch Inn/Cavallo Pt. Lodge. Camara Scremin (415) 902-7183

Classic 1924 home nestled in the heart of the sunny Sausalito Banana Belt, a highly-sought after neighborhood. Camara Scremin (415) 902-7183

Mill Valley

Tiburon

Mill Valley

$1,450,000

$1,200,000

$1,195,000

Estate potential! This is a magical one-acre street to street property in Blithedale Canyon. Carol Adler (415) 987-1969

Vintage Charm and Character. Old Tiburon, charming 1905 Victorian with period charm, 3BD/2BA offers wonderful views. Lyndasue Johnson (415) 515-7010

4BD/3BA beautiful bay view home w/ in-law set up. Approx. 13,875 sq.. ft. lot. Remodeled with high end amenities.

Lou Broderick

Please visit us at: www.BradleyRealEstate.com

(415) 297-3575

Heidi Ellyn & Pat Skipper - Featured Listings -

133 Ward St., Larkspur Vintage Victorian built in 1897 just steps from Downtown Larkspur. 5 bedrooms/3 baths with new gourmet kitchen.

1viasanfernando.IsNowOffered.com $1,699,000

133wardst.IsNowOffered.com $1,800,000

Pe n

din

ult

ipl

ffe

1 st We e

1 Via San Fernando, Tiburon Monterey Colonial 4 bedrooms/2.5 baths with level lawn on 1/3 acre.

68 Madrone, Larkspur Restored Historic home with beautiful gourmet kitchen. 3 bedrooms/2.5 baths and level yard.

366 Larkspur Plaza Dr., Larkspur Sophisticated 2 bedroom/2 bath ground level condo in lovely waterfront complex. Pool and plenty of storage. Best location in Downtown Larkspur.

68madrone.IsNowOffered.com $1,650,000

366larkspurplazadr.IsNowOffered.com $480,000

Top-Producing Team - We Sell Marin! Call us for more details about these fine properties. Also, be sure to inquire about our professional staging program.

Heidi Ellyn, Esq. Top Producer 2004, 2005 & 2007 (415) 786-6807 • heidiellyn@comcast.net

Pat Skipper (415) 823-3009 pskipper@comcast.net

Corinthian Island Masterpiece A BELVEDERE WATERFRONT ICON

Rounding the corner by boat into Belvedere Cove from San Francisco Bay, passing the Corinthian Yacht Club, you are thrilled by the scenic resemblance to the Italian Riviera. This stunning twin-turreted, four-story, 5000 sq. ft. Mediterranean style home elegantly stands above its deep water dock and boat house with breathtaking views of San Francisco, its Bay, Belvedere Island and Mt. Tamalpais. This unique home with over 2,000 sq. ft. of deck space and a boat house is one of only 14 waterfront properties with a western exposure for all day sunshine and wondrous light. Take a short walk to Tiburon’s ferries that run to San Francisco, Sausalito, and Angel Island or stroll to two world-class yacht clubs, the Corinthian Yacht Club and the San Francisco Yacht Club. The California Distinguished Reed School is just a km away. Location is everything and this is an ultimate once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! www.85Bellevue.com Offered at $8,000,000

DAVID KIRCHHOFF Broker Associate 415.531.2656 david@finehomesmarin.com FineHomesMarin.com

space, 4 bd, 3.5 ba…

Sec luded, gated, pr ivate , contemp, 1.7 acres plus open

$4,495,000

Rare gated family compound with World-class contemp with riveting views 2 sep homes, ±10,000 sf, huge of entire San Francisco Bay area, gated, $9,950,000 patio & 60' lap pool, 10 bd, 13.5 ba… $19,500,000 pool, 4 bd, 5.5 ba…

D EN

ING

Resort-like waterfront villa, courtyard Stunning Paradise Cay ±4000 sf hse. pool, top-flr mstr, huge waterfront Sunny & bright. New kit, famrm, mstr, $7,495,000 baths, & huge deck/dock. 4 bd, 4.5 ba… $3,795,000 deck & dock, 3 bd, 4.5 ba…

Former estate of Barry Levinson. ±10,000 sf on ±2 level ac, pool, guest qtrs, sep studio, $17,500,000 7 bd, 8 full & 3 half baths…

PE Stunning SF & GG Bridge vws, kit/fam Expanded and remodeled, wndrfl rm, frml LR & DR, mstr w/sitting rm & new kit/fam, top-flr mster, gated, $7,250,000 $3,775,000 his/hers baths, 6 bd, 5.5 ba… private, pool, 6 bd, 4.5 ba…

TS LO

New constr, gated, modern, 1 story, ±3,929 sf, ±1.25 ac, chef ’s kit, pano $3,495,000 skyline views... bay vws, 3-car gar, 5 bd, 5.5 ba…

IN ND

±9,000 sf, ±2.2 acres, stunning pool/ guest hse/office complex, SF & GGB $13,900,000 vws, 6 bd, 5.5 ba…

5 separate waterfront lots, west side, Mt Tam through San Francisco

$4,500,000 - $6,000,000

Majestic parklike estate w/Mt. Tam vws, ±9500 sf on ±1.42 ac, mstr w/balcony, terr, pool, lvl lawn, 4 bd, 5 full & 3 half ba… $12,750,000

New constr. Med. Villa, Mt Tam vws, 6,500+ sf of dramatic interior, gorgeous ±.58 acre lot, ±3,465 sf, grand foyer, kit/fam, library, level lawn, 3-car gar, 6 elegant details, 4 en suite bd + ofc/fam rm, 5 ba…$2,250,000 en suite bd, 6.5 ba… $5,995,000

±7900 sf, gated, private, 1 ac, remodel, lvl lawn, SF & GGB vws, 5 ensuite bd, $10,299,000 7.5 ba + 1 bd, 1 ba aupair…

D EN

ING

For more information, visit globalestates.com

LYDIA SARKISSIAN (415) 258-8381

1-stry condo, 6-un complex, beaut remod w/ vws fr Mt Tam, GGB & SF skyline, kit/fam rm, study $1,795,000 w/ fpl, lg mstr w/ sit & beaut ba, 2 bd, 2 ba…

BILL BULLOCK (415) 258-2400

Majestic, parklike and private estate with approx. 9,500 square foot European-style residence and Mt. Tam views on approx. 1.42 acres. Two-story, grand entry and staircase of Italian marble designed and installed by European artisans. Kitchen with center isle, lapis countertops, Brazilian granite pantry and informal dining area. Formal living room with fireplace, tall windows and French doors to large terrace overlooking the pool, spa and grounds.The balance of entry level includes the family room with fireplace and tall windows, guest suite with marble bath, study and powder room. Upper level comprises two en-suite bedrooms and master suite with fireplace, his and her closets, balcony with Mt. Tam view and luxurious marble bath. Pool level includes wine cellar, cabana with bath, second kitchen and pantry.The grounds are fenced and private with patio, pool, spa and beautiful level lawns, gardens and producing fruit trees.Total of four bedrooms, five full and three half baths…

For more information, visit globalestates.com

LYDIA SARKISSIAN (415) 258-8381

BILL BULLOCK (415) 258-2400

$12,750,000

2008 DuPont Group Sales • 9 Wilkins Court, Tiburon • 110 Hazel Ave, Mill Valley

In 2008, 100% of the homes we listed had accepted offers within the first 10 days and sold for 98% of their listing price.

• 30 S Knoll Road, Mill Valley • 5 Monte Vista Ave, Mill Valley • 33 Shell Road, Mill Valley • 324 E. Strawberry Drive, Mill Valley • 30 Laurel Grove Ave, Kentfield • 355 Vista Linda Drive, Mill Valley

“Dave and Jaime exhibit all of the virtues we sought in a real estate advisor and more. Due to David and Jaime’s hard work, excellent process, and ability to close the deal, our home sold quickly. We feel fortunate to have worked with them.”

“Dave had a level of professionalism and intellect that was by far the best I have encountered in a real estate transaction. We always knew Dave was our advocate and had a commitment to finding us the right home.”

“Jaime DuPont is one of the most organized and thorough people I have ever worked with. She is smart, hardworking and extremely efficient. She’s a real pro and a delight to work with.” Villas in Bordighera used with permission.

DAVE DUPONT 415.867.6611 THEDUPONTGROUP.NET

108 Homestead Blvd, Mill Valley

28 Vine Ave, San Anselmo

This charming 3 bed 2 bath Carmel-style home offers sweeping views of Mt Tam and Mill Valley. The elegant living room possesses sophisticated wood works, panels, fireplace, built-in window seats and French doors that open to a sun-drenched view patio. The kitchen has a large skylight and beautiful views of Tam sunsets over a country sink. The formal dining room has old world wainscoting. The flat, gated, well landscaped front yard has a gazebo, large lawn and all day sun. This enchanting home offers easy indoor outdoor living and is a very short distance to the best things Mill Valley.

Situated on a very private cul-de-sac this sophisticated home blends unique architectural details with classic Craftsman appeal. This inviting 3 bed 2 bath home features a large kitchen with island and adjoining great room. The master suite has generous closets and French doors to a gracious covered porch. The stunning living room is a work of art with two stories of windows and opens onto a large, private back yard. The family room, home office and full floor attic offer plenty of bonus space. The landscaped grounds, flagstone patio and inviting gardens make this a perfect home for indoor and outdoor entertaining. This coveted Seminary location offers easy walking to schools and downtown San Anselmo. Offered at $1,325,000

Offered at $1,295,000

Extraordinary Sausalito Parcels WolfbackEstate.com Ridgetop

2.6 acres

$18,000,000

WolfbackRidge.com Lot 8 Lot 9 Lot 10

.66 acres .57 acres .42 acres

$1,250,000 $1,750,000 $1,950,000

JAIME DUPONT 415.846.0306 THEDUPONTGROUP.NET

Lovely Tiburon Condominium

Tiburon, 26 Andrew Drive, #79 A separate entrance leads to this delightful condominium featuring a living room and dining area washed with light and a bright galley style kitchen.The bedroom has a view of Mt.Tam. A balcony provides for outdoor entertaining. No neighbors above or below this condo! Easy access to pool and clubhouse. No deed restrictions! Offered at $412,500

Luxury Lease in Private Park-like Setting

Mill Valley, 574 Summit Avenue 4 bedrooms, plus office. Amazing, remodeled home with top of the line finishes in every room. No attention to detail spared! Chef’s kitchen with Miele, Subzero appliances. Perfect for entertaining! Work from home in the beautifully appointed executive office. Three very private, sun drenched decks. The Master Suite is amazing. Tons of storage. Home can be fully or partially furnished, all negotiable and depending on your needs. Lease for $12,000/month

Specializing in Luxury Property Sales & Leases For special view or waterfront properties, contact me!

PENNY WRIGHT-MULLIGAN 415.601.8191 • p.mulligan@deckerbullocksir.com www.pennywrightmulligan.com

Ross UNLIKE ANY OTHER…private, gated 1+ level acre…a spacious, magical log style 5BD/4.5BA home with a great floor plan and an incredibly private yard off the large updated family room and kitchen. The lawn is large enough for soccer games and is surrounded by a beautiful pool and spa area, rose gardens and so much more. Originally built circa 1920, this is a house with a history…offering the style and craftsmanship of yesteryear and updated with the amenities and conveniences of today. The lodge style porch is perfect for relaxing with a good book. The lodge feeling continues into the living room with wood floors, fireplace and high ceilings with rough hewn open beam craftsmanship. An updated chef’s kitchen offers granite counters, restaurant style Wolf range, indoor grill, Sub Zero refrigerator, 2 high end dishwashers and a breakfast bar with wine storage. The kitchen also features an eating area as well as a nicely designed office area. The updated family room and library opens off the kitchen…welcoming you with a fireplace, cathedral ceilings with skylights, and a wall of windows and doors leading outside to the yard and pool beyond. A premiere Marin location…stroll to downtown Ross, Branson and Ross Schools or enjoy incredible hiking and biking trails of Phoenix Lake and Mt. Tamalpais. For more information, visit www.theLodgeinRoss.com. $6,495,000

Judy Klayman-Smith (415) 925-3211 jsmith@fhallen.com

Homestead Valley View Home

RECENT SALES 30 Prospect Ave, San Anselmo $1,895,000 1011 Erica Road, Mill Valley

$1,409,000 44 Macondray Lane, San Francisco $1,900,000 570 Oak Avenue, San Anselmo

$2,195,000 2353 Greenwich Street, San Francisco $1,605,000 100 Thorndale Drive, San Rafael $765,000 945 Greenhill Road, Mill Valley Offered at $999,000

ACTIVE LISTINGS 277 Cascade Dr, Mill Valley

This wonderful 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home is situated perfectly to provide impressive Mt. Tam views and all day sun. A large kitchen opens to a dining area & living room with open cathedral ceilings & skylights. A full size bedroom is on the main level, opening to a deck overlooking the property’s garden patio and private deck. The master suite on the upper level boasts vaulted ceilings and remodeled bathroom.

$3,895,000 330 Ridgewood Ave, Mill Valley $1,295,000 323 Orchid Drive, San Rafael $1,195,000

In addition to the main house there is an almost new, large studio, which would be perfect for a yoga / dance studio, large home office or guest quarters. The level lawn, wonderful outdoor patios and multiple decks allow for enjoying the all day sun, gardening and taking in the property’s magnificent views.

402 & 406 Eldridge, Mill Valley Call for price 945 Greenhill Road, Mill Valley $999,000 Luzanne Circle, San Anselmo

Coming Soon . . . 30 Lee Street, Mill Valley

$599,950 COMING SOON 30 Lee Street, Mill Valley Call for price BR - Buyer Representation

Sunny and spacious four bedroom, two bathroom home with stunning views of Blithedale canyon while just a short distance from downtown Mill Valley. Co-listed with Patricia Gross, Vision Real Estate 415.328.0763 Patricia@GoMarinRealEstate.com

Ron Parks CPA/Broker/Founder 415.297.9000 rparks@visionrealtors.com Marin

Sonoma

San Francisco

www.visionrealtors.com www.visionrealestate.com

Ron Parks & Vision Real Estate Present

402 & 406 Eldridge Avenue, Mill Valley On a sunny lot in highly desirable Blithedale Canyon, this all-new modern home is in the heart of natural beauty, while only minutes from downtown Mill Valley. The approximately 8900 sq ft adjacent lot with Mt. Tam Views is available for purchase along with the property. Within the home, there are three levels of impressive living space adjoined by slat-style floating stairs. Turkish travertine flooring and custom made sitting bench invite guests to relax upon entering the property and lead to two large bedrooms with gorgeous, en-suite bathrooms. The entry level also includes an enclosed laundry room and additional separate room; perfect for a collector size wine cellar. On the main level is a chefs kitchen, complete with a 6 burner Thermador gas range, paneled Viking refrigerator, Calcutta Marble center island, Caesar Stone prep counters, stainless steel farmhouse sink and immediate access to a semi-enclosed patio and garden stairs leading to a flat, sunny area with canyon views. The kitchen opens to an oversized Great Room with dining area, and multiple living areas; all facing huge windows with views of the canyon, surrounding redwoods and Mt. Tam. Additionally, a full bathroom and large bedroom are on the main level; perfect for a home office or guest room. The master suite is on the upper level, with ample lounge quarters and bedroom area, which faces a private deck, also boasting gorgeous views of Mt. Tam and surrounding canyon. The suite provides the ultimate in modern, luxury living complete with a spa-inspired bathroom with double vanity, soaking tub, grand-style stand alone shower with dual nozzles and custom tile work throughout, leading to a vast walk-in closet for two. Price Upon Request

Ron Parks CPA/Broker/Founder 415.297.9000 rparks@visionrealtors.com Marin

Sonoma

San Francisco

www.visionrealtors.com www.visionrealestate.com

It’s All About Lifestyle… Casual sophistication surrounds you in this stunning remodeled home on one of Belvedere’s most sought after streets which is conveniently located close to downtown Tiburon and flat enough for bicycles. The entry gate opens to a private deck and gardens leading to the front door and graceful reception area. The living room, with hardwood floors and a fireplace, has a wall of glass looking over the Belvedere lagoon and the hills of Tiburon. The formal dining room shares these peaceful views which sparkle at night. The modern kitchen features stunning black granite counters and quality appliances. The island with a breakfast bar is the perfect spot for a quick bite or to linger and chat with the chef as you sip a glass of wine. A powder room and cozy master suite complete this level. Below there are three bedrooms, two baths and a family room with built in bookcases and sliding doors to the lovely yard. Clean lines and quality finishes add to the allure of this light-filled residence. 74 Bayview Avenue, Belvedere • $2,495,000

Karen Z. Hardesty • Broker Associate / Principal 415.265.3344 • kzhardesty@visionrealtors.com • www.74BayviewAvenue.com

Karen is Committed to Extraordinary Service!

Marin

Sonoma

San Francisco

www.visionrealestate.com

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2 4 / 7 R E A L E S TAT E K N O W L E D G E Y O U C A N T R U S T

NEW LISTINGS

$1,999,000, 15 Euterpe Street, Mill Valley

$899,000, 305 Marion Avenue, Mill Valley

EXCLUSIVE EUTERPE

MYSTICAL MARION

This 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath home with oak hardwood ﬂooring,

This 3 bed, 2, bath, home sits on a private street to street lot with

designer colors, and a custom chef’s kitchen, is ideal for outdoor

views of the surrounding hills. Features include an updated chef’s

and indoor entertaining. Exclusive Euterpe is located in the Boyle

kitchen, and a living room located directly off an expansive deck.

Park neighborhood, walking distance from downtown Mill Valley,

Nearly every room has a stunning view! Mystical Marion is ideally

and a short drive from San Francisco, and Wine Country!

located in the Cascade Canyon neighborhood of Mill Valley.

NEW

$1,449,000, 31 Piedmont Road, Larkspur

$499,000, 138 Larkspur Plaza Drive, Larkspur

PRESTIGIOUS PIEDMONT

LOVELY LARKSPUR

This fabulous 9,632 sq. Ft. lot, with approved plans is locat-

This 2 bed, 2 bath condominium, located in the Larkspur Isle

ed in downtown Larkspur—just steps away from boutiques,

Complex has been tastefully updated, with ammenities includ-

gourmet restaurants, the Lark Theatre, Mt. Tamalpais Racquet

ing an on-site pool and hottub. This lovely Larkspur condo is lo-

Club, and Redwood School District. Build your dream home

cated near downtown shopping, restaurants, the Lark Theatre,

in one of Marin’s most sought after locations.

Mt. Tam. Racquet Club, Redwood High and Hall middle schools.

Check out the Mt Tam Cam at www.JimmyMarin.com

Jimmy Wanninger | TEL 415.990.8990 24/7 | www.JimmyMarin.com

2 4 / 7 R E A L E S TAT E K N O W L E D G E Y O U C A N T R U S T

2008 SALES & LISTINGS SOLD $3,850,000 305 Highland Avenue, San Rafael SOLD $2,775,000 125 Marion Avenue, Mill Valley SOLD $2,299,000 459 Redwood Avenue, Corte Madera ACTIVE $1,999,000 15 Euterpe Street, Mill Valley SOLD $1,998,000 97 Del Casa, Mill Valley SOLD $1,750,000 11 Madrono Avenue, Corte Madera SOLD $1,450,000 11 Fairview Avenue, Corte Madera ACTIVE $1,449,000 31 Piedmont Road, Larkspur SOLD $1,295,000 215 Laverne Avenue, Mill Valley SOLD $1,212,500 146 Granada Drive, Corte Madera SOLD $1,140,200 311 Sausalito Street, Corte Madera SOLD $975,000 32 Staghound Passage, Corte Madera ACTIVE $899,000 305 Marion Avenue, Mill Valley ACTIVE $849,000 73 Lincoln Drive, Sausalito SOLD $730,500 257 Glen Park Avenue, San Rafael ACTIVE $499,000 138 Larkspur Plaza Drive, Larkspur

COMING SOON

Tiburon $5,000,000 5 Bedrooms, 4 Baths, Views Novato $2,499,000 5 Bedrooms, 4 Baths, Views Mill Valley $1,900,000 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, Pool, Blithedale Canyon Mill Valley $1,599,000 4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, 2nd unit, Sycamore Park Tiburon $1,399,000 4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, Bel Aire Greenbrae $1,399,000 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, Kentfield Schools San Rafael $749,000 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, Outer Dominican

Jimmy Wanninger | TEL 415.990.8990 24/7 | www.JimmyMarin.com

250 Seadrift Road in Stinson Beach: Available for the first time, this home designed & built by Steve Wisenbaker AIA in 1975 was refined and rebuilt to perfection in 2001 with Ireland, Robinson and Hadley using the finest materials and finishes available. An absolute jewel found only in the best location of the Seadrift Spit! Quintessential Ocean Front Beach House offers ultimate year round indoor/ outdoor entertaining & living experience. Offered at $5,700,000

,BUJF #FBDPDL 4FBESJGU $P 3FBMUPST 5FM $FMM 'BY LBUJF!TFBESJGUSFBMUZ DPN

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256 Seadrift Road in Stinson Beach: Available for the first time in over twenty years, this charming home has three bedrooms and two bathrooms, spacious livingdining room with fireplace and open beamed ceiling. The Ocean-side deck has a glass windscreen overlooking the beach, and the walled and gated private courtyard patio has a view of Mt Tamalpais. The large dune area provides extra privacy on the ocean side. Great location on the Seadrift Spit! Offered at $5,300,000

,BUJF #FBDPDL 4FBESJGU $P 3FBMUPST 5FM $FMM 'BY LBUJF!TFBESJGUSFBMUZ DPN

6)%7 /52 02%-)5- 6!#!4)/. 2%.4!,3 !4 777 3%!$2)&42%!,49 #/- !.$ #!,, 53 !4 MARINMAGAZINE.COM

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'*/"/$&% ,FBSOZ 4USFFU 4BO 'SBODJTDP BDRVJTJUJPO ¹OBODJOH XJUI CBOL

$PNNFSDJBM 3FBM &TUBUF 'JOBODJOH .BEF &BTZ In today’s tight money market The Barry S. Slatt Mortgage Company can secure low interest rates on great terms for your retail, office, industrial, or multi-family property through our exclusive relationships with life insurance companies. Jordan Angel is a fourth generation Marin native specializing in arranging financing for commercial buildings throughout the country. Jordan has coordinated over a billion dollars worth of purchase and refinance transactions from $500,000 to $74 million. Call today for a free competitive quote.

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TJODF 176

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President, Marin Women’s Council of REALTORS®

Judy LeMarr FRANK HOWARD ALLEN REALTORS 415-793-5030 judy@MarinDreamHome.com www.MarinDreamHome.com

Service Experience

Results TRUSTED

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EXPERT

COUNSELORS

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Your Napa Valley dream home is waiting...

CALL US TODAY. “WE KNOW THE NAPA VALLEY.”

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Terry Wunderlich CRS, SRES

Lynn Moore SRES, e-Pro

707.967.1349 terry@napawunder.com www.napawunder.com

707.967.1350 lmoore@pacunion.com www.napawunder.com

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D I A LO GUE

You could live anywhere. Why Marin? I lived in Los Angeles for 18 years and Marin compared to L.A. is like comparing Paradise Foods with a hot dog stand. I get a sense of calm when I pass through the rainbow tunnel after crossing the Golden Gate Bridge. What makes you happy in Marin? Spending time at the dog park watching Reno be absolutely joyful. Sometimes I’ll hide behind a tree and watch him frantically search for me. What gets on your nerves here? People who back their car into a spot at the pump at the Arco station in Tam Junction, which causes the flow of cars to go the opposite direction. You know who you are. What’s your personal idea of luxury? Watching a movie in the afternoon with no one else in the theater. Right before it starts I’ll say, “Roll it, Bob.” What do you value every day? My friendships with the people I trust like my next door neighbors and my show producer, Lucy Mercer. They have keys to my house and there’s no higher trust barometer than that. What person has influenced you the most? Joseph, the guy in the red hooded sweatshirt who walks around the town square in Mill Valley. He’s a genius. What’s been the most fulfilling moment in your work? Creating a comedy show with Lucy Mercer every Tuesday at the 142 Throckmorton Theatre. I get so many e-mails from people thanking us for having a

MARK PITTA BY M I M I TOW L E | Everyone wants to be Mark Pitta’s friend—or

consistent place to have a good laugh. Plus the comedians say it’s the best room in the country, not just California…the country! What’s a Marin stereotype that works? All the women over 40 who live here are hot!

at least maybe hang out backstage with his other famously funny friends. Either way, Pitta is a BMAM (big man around Marin).

What stereotype doesn’t fit? I think people who say they are “follow-

Careerwise he has shared his comedic talent with audiences of

ing their energy” are harmful if the energy takes them to an improper

the Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and Bob Hope’s Young

place. They are just giving themselves an excuse to do what they want.

Comedians Special as well as a few network comedies such as Mad About You and Third Rock from the Sun. Many might also remember him during his five-year stint as the entertainment reporter on KTVU’s Mornings on Two. These days, he and Lucy Mercer have been putting on a very popular Tuesday night

Do you have a favorite Marin view? From the stage at the Throckmorton Theatre looking out to a standing-room-only crowd. What do you like about yourself? Oh, let’s not make this full-page interview with a color photo all about me.

Friends,” which will celebrate its four-year anniversary in

What is your favorite journey? From my mother’s womb to where

November. Offstage, he can be found enjoying a meal at Mama’s

I am now.

Royal Cafe on Miller Avenue in Mill Valley or Rain Tree in the Strawberry Village Shopping Center—both allow dogs. 178

MARIN OCTOBER 2008

How do you want to be remembered? As the guy who lived forever!

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTO: BARB RIES

comedy show at 142 Throckmorton Theatre, “Mark Pitta and

Immerse yourself in the magic of the harvest season with the Calistoga Ranch Owner Experience.

Nowhere in the Napa Valley are food, wine and life more celebrated than at Calistoga Ranch. Located one hour from your home in Marin and just off of the Silverado Trail in a private 157 acre secluded canyon, this spectacular retreat offers 5-star living in the wine country for a fraction of the cost. Your passion for life has found a home. We invite you to discover all the experiences that embody living in an Auberge Resort. Visit www.worldclassproperties.com to review the details on the Calistoga Ranch Owner Experience and register today with Anna for a private tour.

Anna K. Pennington-Boucher Luxury Home Specialist

415.860.1399 a.boucher@deckerbullocksir.com