December 2013

Marin LIFE IN THE FAST LANE Marin’s Most Exotic Rides USE WHAT YOU’VE GOT The Unexpected Rewards of Sharing SKI THE WEST Upgrades and New Terrain

Mixing It Up Turning the Table on 6 Local Bartenders

+ GET

DRESSY

New Looks for the New Year 001 DEC.COVER.1213.indd 1

11/13/13 9:24 AM

Marin’s Gateway to the Luxury Market.

Marin-BrandSpread-opt14-11Circle.indd All Pages 1213_Decker_FNL.indd 2

w

11/11/13 11:52 AM

www.deckerbullocksir.com | 415.381.7300

1213_Decker_FNL.indd 3

11/1/13 11:52 7:13 PM 11/11/13 AM

LIVE LIFE WELL ANN TAYLOR

Download Our FREE App

KATE SPADE

SPLENDID

TOMMY BAHAMA

MADEWELL

ANTHROPOLOGIE

MACY’S, NORDSTROM, & MORE THAN 50 SPECIALTY STORES & RESTAURANTS Located on Highway 101 at Paradise Drive in Corte Madera | 415.924.8557 VillageatCorteMadera.com

Generated by BeQRious.com

Village_1213_FNL.indd 1

11/4/13 10:41 AM

© Purcell Murray Inc. 2013

Engineering beauty.

There are no words to truly describe Gaggenau’s remarkable embodiment of form and function. Nothing extraneous. Nothing excessive. Nothing short of perfection. And Purcell Murray is proud to bring you these exceptional appliances through our remarkable network of dealers throughout California.

Visit a certified Gaggenau dealer for more information:

PMurray_1213_FNL.indd 1

SIEMATIC

STANDARDS OF EXCELLENCE

San Francisco 235 1st Street, Suite 160 San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 442-0255

San Rafael 530 West Francisco Blvd.

San Rafael, CA 94901 (415) 453-6070

UNIVERSITY ELECTRIC

ATHERTON APPLIANCE

Santa Clara 1500 Martin Ave. Santa Clara, CA 95050 (408) 496-0500

Redwood City 695 Veterans Blvd.

Redwood City, CA 94063 (877) 662-7196

10/30/13 3:53 PM

e n g a g e m e n t | 5 5 X 6 0 I N C H E S | O I l O N C a N va S

r o s s p e n h a l l | a r t i s t r e c e p t i o n | t h u r s d ay | d e c e m b e r 5 | 6 – 8 p m EXHIBITION CONTINUES THROUGH dECEmBER 31, 2013

3 41 s u t t e r st r e e t | sa n f r a n c i s co, c a l i f o r n i a | 41 5 . 3 92 . 2 2 9 9 | c a l dw e l l s n y d e r .co m

CSynder_1213_FNL.indd 1

10/23/13 10:25 AM

ChelseaPremium_1213_FNL.indd 1

10/18/13 11:41 AM

Contents

DECEMB ER 2013

60

Features 48 Toast to the ’Tenders The county’s most beloved bartenders.

60 Life in the Fast Lane Automobile fantasy becomes reality on Marin’s roads.

ANISE GIMMELL

56 Dare to Share Marinites take advantage of the sharing economy trend.

8 DECEMBER 2013 MARIN

008-010 TOC.1213.indd 8

11/12/13 9:51 AM

Wonder has arrived.

THE VILLAGE AT CORTE MADERA C LOTH I N G 路 ACC E S SO R I E S 路 H O M E D ECO R 路 S U R P R I S E S CWONDER.COM 路 @CWONDERSTORE

Spectacular gifts at stocking stuffer prices.

A S S O R T M E N T M AY VA R Y B Y S T O R E .

CWonder_1113_FNL.indd 1

10/9/13 10:22 AM

Contents

DECEMB ER 2013

117

42

In Marin 27 Currents Holiday gifts, a big sale, Santa locations, charity events and more.

36 Q&A Meet a local fourth-generation ferryboat driver.

38 Made by Marin Thomas Fetherston’s fi e furniture.

42 FYI Get to know Druid Heights.

Destinations 71 Go Upgrades and new terrain for this year’s ski season.

74 Travel Buzz Great places to explore.

76 Journey Oaxaca’s winter celebration is unlike any other.

Out & About 83 Calendar A roundup of what to do in Marin and beyond.

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

106 On the Scene Snapshots from special events in Marin and San Francisco.

Marin Home 117 Backstory A move from Ross to Sausalito is the perfect fit.

COLUMNS 16 View From Marin 18 POV 146 Looking Back

10 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

008-010 TOC.1213.indd 10

83

76

TIM PORTER (TOP LEFT, RIGHT AND BOTTOM)Carter

34 Style Sparkle this New Year’s Eve.

11/13/13 9:25 AM

SAN FRANCISCO, 384 POST ST. CALL 415.986.4300, VISIT SAKS.COM/SANFRANCISCO, DOWNLOAD THE SAKS APP OR FIND US ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND SAKSPOV.COM. * UP TO 3 MSGS/WEEK. TEXT STOP TO CANCEL, HELP FOR INFO. MSG&DATA RATES MAY APPLY. VISIT SAKS.COM/POLICIES FOR MORE INFO.

for VALENTINO in 10022-SHOE: San Francisco’s most well-heeled ZIP code.

Saks_1213_FNL.indd 1

132894_MARIN_VALENTROCKS_M.indd 1

SAN FRANCISCO

FOR FASHION ON YOUR PHONE: TEXT SF TO 75283 (S5AVE) FOR INSIDER ACCESS, EVENT PREVIEWS AND MORE*

10/10/13 10:15 AM

10/16/13 3:42 PM

the center of it all!

MARINMAGAZINE.COM PUBLISHER / EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Nikki Wood

Editorial EXECUTIVE EDITOR Mimi Towle MANAGING EDITOR Daniel Jewett SENIOR WRITER Jim Wood EDITOR-AT-LARGE Tim Porter COPY EDITOR Cynthia Rubin EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Calin Van Paris CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lynda Balslev, Dawn Margolis Denberg, Laura Hilgers, Austin Murphy

Art ART DIRECTOR Veronica Sooley PRODUCTION MANAGER Alex French

‘Tis the Season Sephora | Party City | francesca’s | Macy’s Furniture Men’s Wearhouse | Starbucks | See’s Candies | Costco Target | Marshalls | Old Navy | Sports Authority Massage Envy Now Open!

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Lynda Balslev, Mo DeLong, Lori Eanes, Anise Gemmell, Debra Tarrant, Nike van der Molen

Advertising ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Debra Hershon ext 120 | dhershon@marinmagazine.com ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Michele Geoffrion Johnson ext 110 | mjohnson@marinmagazine.com SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER Leah Bronson ext 109 | lbronson@marinmagazine.com ACCOUNT MANAGER Dana Horner ext 107 | dhorner@marinmagazine.com ACCOUNT MANAGER Matt Clifford ext 113 | mclifford@marinmagazine.com ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR Alex French

Regional Sales Offices WINE COUNTRY Matt Clifford | mclifford@marinmagazine.com SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Leah Bronson | lbronson@marinmagazine.com NEW YORK Karen Couture, Couture Marketing | 917.821.4429 HAWAII Debbie Anderson, Destination Marketing | 808.739.2200

Administration / Web CONTROLLER Maeve Walsh

www.shopvintageoaks.com

OFFICE MANAGER Kirstie A. Martinelli WEB/IT MANAGER Peter Thomas

Over 50 stores and restaurants, conveniently located off of Highway 101, Rowland Boulevard exit.

12 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

012-014 Masthead.1213.indd 12

11/11/13 11:30 AM

Photo: Sabine SCherer

Photo: Michael o’Neal & Sarah Peet

‘Tis the Season to Celebrate Savor an expansive Christmas buffet, with food stations featuring prime rib, a raw bar, pasta, salads and more. For private gatherings, the lodge offers stunning event spaces. Seasonal menus showcase fresh ingredients from local providers—enhanced by a stellar wine list. For the perfect present, give a Cavallo Point Gift Card, good for lodging, dining, spa treatments, cooking classes and the Mercantile. Make your holidays brighter at Cavallo Point!

Ranked #5 – Top Resorts in the U.S.

Call 1.888.651.2003 Visit cavallopoint.com

Travel + leisure

601 murray circle

CavalloPoint_1213_FNL.indd 1

fort baker

sausalito, ca 94965

reservations: 1.888.651.2003

www.cavallopoint.com

/CavalloPoint

@CavalloPoint

11/6/13 10:17 AM

MARINMAGAZINE.COM

Reader Services MAILING ADDRESS One Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965 PHONE 415.332.4800 FAX 415.332.3048 SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES subscriptions@marinmagazine.com 818.286.3160 ADVERTISING INQUIRIES mjohnson@marinmagazine.com INTERNSHIP INQUIRIES / STORY IDEAS editorial@marinmagazine.com LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Please send letters to editorial@marinmagazine.com.

Be sure to include your full name, city, state and phone number. Marin Magazine reserves the right to edit letters for clarity, length and style.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Rates are $12 for gift subscriptions or free for general subscribers. To subscribe, manage your subscription or change your address visit marinmagazine.com/subscribe.

BULK ORDERS For information on bulk orders of Marin Magazine, please call 415.332.4800.

Corporate CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER & PRESIDENT Richard M. Franks CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Todd P. Paul CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER Forbes C. Durey

Advertising DIRECTOR OF SALES Darla Walker DIRECTOR OF NATIONAL ADVERTISING Nathen Bliss

Marketing & Events CORPORATE DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & EVENTS Cathy Hale DIRECTOR OF EVENTS & COMMUNITY RELATIONS Meredith Parsons MARKETING & EVENTS COORDINATOR Meghan Athnos DIRECTOR OF AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT Kerri Nolan Volume 9, Issue 12. Marin Magazine is published in Marin County by Open Sky Media. All rights reserved. Copyright©2013. Reproduction of Marin Magazine content is prohibited without the expressed, written consent of Open Sky Media. Unsolicited materials cannot be returned. Marin Magazine reserves the right to refuse to publish any advertisement deemed detrimental to the best interests of the community or that is in questionable taste. Marin Magazine is mailed monthly to homes and businesses in Marin County.

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

14 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

012-014 Masthead.1213.indd 14

11/11/13 11:31 AM

TownCenter_1213_FNL.indd 1

11/8/13 2:58 PM

View From Marin

W

H AT’LL YOU H AVE? We kick off December features with a story on everyone’s favorite person come holiday time: your friendly local bartender. From newly minted to seasoned pros, we introduce you to six of the best in Marin. You’ll meet them, take a peek at a drink or two and hear some classic bar jokes and stories. The great shots of drinks and bartenders, including the tantalizing image on the cover, were taken by photographer Lori Eanes.

You’ll meet them, take a peek at a drink or two and hear some classic bar jokes and stories.

Marin Magazine Staff Editors

ON THE STREETS Editor Daniel Jewett and photographer Tim Porter had the hard job this month of driving, photographing and describing some of the flashiest cars in the world — most found right here in Marin.

Here, see Porter surrounded by Ferraris during a recent Ferrari Owners Group meet-up and Jewett taking the 1,200-horsepower Bugatti through its paces.

MO DELONG (TOP); TOM PORTER (BOTTOM LEFT); BUTCH LEITZINGER (BOTTOM RIGHT)

Above, from left: Mimi Towle, Nikki Wood, Dan Jewett

We also present a story on sharing. Not the kind preached to kids vying for the last spot on the swing set, but the kind adults everywhere are using to supplement their income or just borrow a stepladder for a day. The sharing economy trend is big in Marin, where writer Austin Murphy finds people getting more out of all kinds of items — sometimes with unexpected and often pleasant results.

We wrap up features in Marin’s fast lane — giving the inside track on the speediest, most exotic cars in the county, with all the juicy stats on cost and performance. You’ll definitely want to put the top down, grab the driving gloves and buckle up.

In the front of the book we offer tips on making your own gifts, places Santa might appear (and humorous photos of such encounters), and New Year’s fashion; we also talk with a fourth-generation ferryboat operator and the man and woman behind the mysterious Druid Heights.

Destinations reveals which ski resorts have expanded or upgraded facilities, suggests a few celebratory year-end getaways, and visits the most unusual Mexican festival you might ever see.

It’s a big issue and we certainly had fun investigating the best cars and bars (just not on the same days) — a perfect capper for the year. We wish all our readers a joyful and relaxing holiday season and a happy New Year — and just wait until you see all the great articles we have planned for you in 2014.

16 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

016 DEC.VIEW.1213.indd 16

11/12/13 9:37 AM

ShoeStories_1213_FNL.indd 1

11/12/13 1:02 PM

POV

The Corte Madera apartment project is controversial. BY JIM WOOD

“I

We were between a rock and a hard place. If we didn’t zone for all the units that were mandated, we’d be sued for noncompliance

T’S A MONSTER,” declared Corte

Madera’s Carol Levenson to the Marin Independent Journal.

“I want to put rude signs on its walls.” Instead, Levenson plans to move away. To that, Corte Madera Mayor Diane Furst adds this: “I’m not convinced it’s the best place for housing. People are not pleased about it.”

Levenson and Furst are referring to the Tamal Vista Apartments, a 180-unit project by Highway 101 in Corte Madera where a factory once emitted wisps of steam while manufacturing Styrofoam cups. The development — which includes 3,000 square feet of groundfloor retail — broke ground in late 2012 and will be finished by fall of 2014. But since construction started, many in Marin have decried its very existence. “It’s bigger than I or anyone else ever imagined,” Trudy Garrettson says about the now-half-completed complex.

As to why Corte Madera allowed the project to be built, “we were all but forced to by state housing laws that are administered by the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG),” Furst explains. In a recent letter to a constituent, she put it this way: “We were between a rock and a hard place. If we didn’t zone for all the units that were mandated, we’d be sued for noncompliance by one of the many affordable-housing nonprofits in the region.”

Tamal Vista Apartments is being developed by MacFarlane Partners of San Francisco, which has completed similar projects in New York, Chicago, Seattle and the Bay Area. “Tamal Vista will be one-, two- and three-bedroom, high-end apartments; the project will have LEED Silver certification, a private pool and a bocce ball court, and 18 of its units will qualify as affordable housing,” says MacFarlane spokesperson Julie Chase.

Yet the debate continues. “It would have been great to see something one or two stories shorter and set back more,” says Michael Lappert, Corte

Madera’s vice mayor. A qualified outsider begs to differ: “I honestly think it should have been ten stories high, leaving considerable open space surrounding it,” says Miles Berger, a 30-year Marin resident, former mayor of Tiburon and noted Bay Area architect. “It’s located close to public transit such as trans-bay ferries, long- and short-range buses and, eventually, the SMART train. We’ve got to get people out of their cars and this is a way to do it.”

Fairfax’s Scott Hockstrasser, a respected Marin land planner, who while not directly involved with the project has closely followed it, says, “I firmly believe they are building the right project. Corte Madera is growing up, with major shopping centers, several car dealerships and a certain amount of commercial/industrial; it’s spreading its urban tentacles and becoming an ‘edge city,’ more than a suburb yet less than urban.” His only disappointment: “I wish it included more than just 18 affordable units.”

The centrally located Tamal Vista Apartments are within walking or biking distance of four shopping centers, including the well-established Bon Air Center and the rapidly developing Marin Country Mart, as well as numerous restaurants and cafes and the renowned Book Passage, where famous authors frequently appear. There’s also proximity to K-through-12 schools, several parks, a scenic walking and biking trail, and almost immediate freeway access.

“Yes, it’s big; yes, it’s dense,” concedes Furst, “but I do believe the developer designed a very attractive project, and when it’s done it will be an attractive, if dense, addition to our town.”

On this last statement, I’m in complete agreement with the mayor; moreover, I believe Marin County will be seeing several similar projects in coming years. That’s my point of view. What’s yours?

Email pov@marinmagazine.com.

RICHARD WHEELER

Monster or Forerunner?

18 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

018 POV.Jim.1213.indd 18

11/12/13 11:54 AM

Now opeN! Marin’s Largest event Center for Spectacular weddings and Social, Corporate and Golf events

333 Biscayne Drive San Rafael, CA 94901-1599 415.453.4910 www.peacockgapevents.com

PeacockGap_1213_FNL.indd 1

10/31/13 10:51 AM

POV

Your Letters Let’s Play

In the August issue we spotlighted images of street safety signs (Details, “At Play”) and asked readers to send some photos of their own. Stephanie Sanford shared this shot of a clever sign purchased at a store in Lake Tahoe and on display near her San Anselmo home.

Take the Tour

Based upon the letters (Your Letters, “Air Force vs. Navy” November 2013), I would suggest readers consider a visit to the Hamilton Field History Museum to learn more about this large piece of Marin County history.

You will be pleasantly surprised. JOE WILLIAMS, HAMILTON MUSEUM CURATOR, VIA EMAIL

Measure F

Jim Wood, I firmly agree with your position (POV, “Is Marin General a Good Investment?”

November 2013) that it is important to rebuild Marin General Hospital. However, I must ask whether, in your support of the project, you have considered a more imminent and lasting threat than earthquakes — sea level rise due to climate change. If you are familiar with Bay Conservation and Development Commission flood maps, the lands along Corte Madera Creek,

ONLINE, WE ASKED YOU

Which local boutiques have the most unusual and charming gifts?

101

“Gift talk already?”

Sandra Cannon

“Item Shoes.”

Joy Goldberg

“Kathleen Dughi Jeweler.”

Shahasp Valentine

“Terrestra.”

Ely Horn “Tyler Florence Shop.”

Deborah Freed Goldman

20 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

020-022 POV.letters.1213.indd 20

11/11/13 4:44 PM

including the hospital vicinity, all face the prospect of significant and permanent flooding. As this construction is a long-term infrastructure project, planners must consider climate impacts.

Rebuilding at the current location may prove seismically sound, but the climate impacts must also be addressed. I am making no assumptions about whether this issue is adequately addressed in rebuilding plans, but would appreciate your thoughts on this. CARLEEN CULLEN, VIA EMAIL If Marin General Hospital is owned by the residents of Marin County, it would be helpful to understand whether uninsured people can expect to receive care there free of charge. My understanding is that MGH does not provide such services, leaving Marin Community Clinics, Rotary clinics and others to care for our poorer neighbors. I think that’s why some Marin residents are not eager to have taxpayer funds going to that hospital. CAM JO, VIA EMAIL In this period of political ennui in our leaders, let us the citizens think about the common good over specific individual advantages. As a practicing structural engineer in the Bay Area for more than 40 years I find it encouraging to see that San Francisco has recently adopted a mandatory seismic retrofit program of soft-story wood frame and residential unit structures.˛The continuing functioning capability of such an important and critical community resource as a central hospital in the time of such a major earthquake is surely something all residents can join in supporting. PETER CULLEY, VIA EMAIL

Scotch Broom

Jim Wood, thanks for an excellent, balanced article (POV, “Battling Broom” May 2013). The real world always involves trade-o˝ s, as much as we would prefer things to be “all good, all the time.”˛I know from battling French broom on our property in Mill Valley that its control is extremely di˙ cult.˛The key is that any herbicides applied to plants be done strictly in accordance with proper practices such as no wind, no excess application, a hot day followed by a dry one so the herbicide is absorbed quickly into the plant and not washed into the environment.˛Clearly MMWD is not a spray-happy, antienvironment outfit and can be trusted, under the watchful eye of us environmentally M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 21

020-022 POV.letters.1213.indd 21

11/12/13 11:57 AM

POV

You own a business.

You face some crucial financial decisions.

We help you make them.

You live your dream.

conscious citizens, to use any glyphosate herbicide properly. WILLIAM MCGLASHAN SR., VIA EMAIL Jim, I am committed to finding a solution to this terrible Scotch broom problem and to getting the disparate groups together to agree on the best course of action. The current inaction is intolerable. I will bring the Sierra Club and the Tamalpais Hiking Clubs. Let’s figure out how to get the other players together and “call the gathering.” I am eager to get your reply.

JAMIE SUTTON, STINSON BEACH

A handful of crucial decisions can turn your business into the asset you need it to be. We’re well versed in helping local business owners and entrepreneurs with all of them.

Depending on your vision, and where you’re at in the life cycle of your business, we can guide you through the process of creating a disciplined financial plan— including tax and investment strategies for your future succession or retirement.

We’ll help you maximize the value in your business—and the happiness in your life.

To learn more, call Private Ocean COO Susan Dickson at 415.526.2900 or visit us at www.privateocean.com.

Jim, in your May 2013 issue you wrote an article about the Scotch broom problem in Marin. Also in this issue you wrote about your “Marin to Mendocino” (Destinations, May 2013) trip. We also took this trip in January and were shocked to see miles and miles of thick clumps of ugly, invasive and nonnative pampas grass spreading along the hills. Did you see this? It is a mess. It made me sick. I emailed the California Native Plant Society of Santa Rosa and Marin asking if anything could be done. They responded that neither the federal, state nor local agencies have plans to remove these invasive plants. It is such a shame because the problem of invasive plants will only get worse. BARBARA REISING, VIA EMAIL

Misplaced

I found an error in “On the Scene” (November 2013). You listed the Mill Valley Film Festival opening as being held at the Mill Valley Art and Garden Center in Mill Valley. There is no such place. The MVFF opening was held at the Outdoor Art Club in Mill Valley. The organization was founded in 1902 and the Bernard Maybeckdesigned building has been at 1 West Blithedale since 1904. It is a national, state and local historic landmark. JANIS BOSENKO, PAST CLUB PRESIDENT, VIA EMAIL There was a mistake in the story on New Zealand (Journey, November 2013). The capital of the country is Wellington, not Christchurch. PETER CULLS, VIA EMAIL

Personal, powerful wealth management

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

22 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

020-022 POV.letters.1213.indd 22

11/12/13 11:58 AM

Lighten Up for the Holidays o M -H re R A e P R FE siv G OF clu O Ex CH P R UN

LA

ay lid

Usually pack on the pounds between now and New Year’s, then resolve to lose it later?

Don’t let the Holidays weigh you down.

JumpstartMD is the medical weight management program most recommended by Bay Area doctors. It’s the real food solution that’s Private, Personalized and Proven up to 4-times more effective than other popular programs and diets.

Because No One Wants Temporary Weight Loss.

“Jumpstart” your weight loss now to greet 2014 with extra joy, not extra padding – and enjoy our biggest discount of the year!

CALL FOR OFFER DETAILS AND TO FIND OUT IF OUR PROGRAM IS RIGHT FOR YOU: TOLL-FREE 1-855-586-7782 New patient package offer expires 12-31-2013. * See results info at www.JumpstartMD.com/stats and program comparisons at www.JumpstartMD.com/comparison. Copyright © 2013 JumpstartMD. All rights reserved.

JumpStartMD_1213_FNL.indd 1

10/28/13 10:27 AM

Contributors

P R O MOT I O N

Bay Area events you’ll want to attend Friend us to share RSVP Hot Ticket photos at facebook.com/marinmagazine.

[UPCOMING EVENTS] ICB WINTER OPEN STUDIOS FACTORY 45 — THE ARTIST EXPOSED

• Lori Eanes is a San Francisco–based

food and people photographer whose work has appeared in the Wall Street Journal, Sierra magazine, Oakland Magazine and San Francisco Magazine, among others. Her latest project, the book Backyard Roots, features stories, tips and inspiration from 35 West Coast urban farmers.

WHEN December 6 preview, 6–9 p.m.; December 7–8, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.

WHERE Industrial Center Building (ICB), 480 Gate 5 Road, Sausalito

WHY YOU The ICB Winter Open Studios SHOULD celebrates its 45th year with more GO than 80 visual artists opening

their studios to the public. For the anniversary celebration the collective of artists is borrowing from Andy Warhol’s use of the screen test — see the artists behind the art at Gallery 111 on the ground level. Artists will experience their 40 seconds of fame all weekend long. Work will be for sale in mediums including painting, sculpture, photography, digital media, jewelry, printmaking, fiber arts, stained glass and much more.

COST Free FIND OUT 415.261.7640, icbartists.com, MORE info@icbartists.com

THE MARIN PROJECT WHEN January 18, 6 p.m. cocktails; 7 p.m. concert WHERE Showcase Theatre, 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael WHY YOU The Marin Project is a live SHOULD concert of classical, opera, GO jazz and blues. The event features a silent auction, hors d’oeuvres and wine, followed by a live concert performed by the musicians featured on the album and a live auction. The fundraiser benefits Homeward Bound and the Salvation Army’s Children’s Music Program while proceeds from the CD will go to help end homelessness and hunger in Marin County. Find the album at iTunes, Amazon, themarinproject.com and at Whole Foods, Woodlands Markets and other retailers.

•

San Anselmo resident and chronically disappointing Dipsea contestant Austin Murphy takes a look at the county’s “sharing economy” in this issue. As one of eight children, he reports, he has long been accustomed to sharing. Murphy is a senior writer at Sports Illustrated and is now in his 30th year at that magazine.

COST $100 FIND OUT 415.892.5252, MORE themarinproject.com

Want to see all the images from our RSVP Hot Ticket events?

Visit marinmagazine.com/hotticket for the latest.

24 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

024 CONTRIB.1213.indd 24

11/12/13 12:01 PM

MarinComm_1213_FNL.indd 1

10/18/13 11:42 AM

The perfect gift!

EVO SPA GIFT CARD

Purchase online, by phone or at the Spa Come visit our Spa Boutique filled with amazing Jewelry, Clothes, Candles, Skin Care & Unique Gifts!

800 Redwood Hwy. Ste. 216, Mill Valley, Ca. 94941 | 415.383.3223 | www.evo-spa.com Photo by Karen Wiles

EvoSpa_1213_FNL.indd 1

11/6/13 9:41 AM

In Marin

CE L E B R AT I N G T H E PEO PL E , PL ACE S A N D C AU S E S O F T H I S U N I Q U E CO U N T Y

SEASON OF GIVING

LYNDA BALSLEV

What better source of inspiration than Mother Nature for creating homespun gifts and decorations to share with family and friends? We don’t have to look far in Marin for natural resources growing right under our feet and outside the door. During this season of giving, keep it close to home with foraged decorations, artisanal products and repurposed items plucked from Marin’s backyard. Locally made wine, dehydrated garden citrus, kitchen spices and mason jars converge in a do-it-yourself spiced-wine basket decorated with wild pink peppercorns, evergreen clippings, cinnamon sticks and fruit. A hand-printed recipe card ensures proper allocation of the basket ingredients, and if you time it right, you might be invited to stay for a glass. Check out our staff blogs online to learn how to make this homemade gift from local ingredients. LYNDA BALSLEV

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 27

027 InMarin.OPEN.1213.indd 27

11/13/13 9:25 AM

In Marin / CURRENTS

Charitable Outings Enjoy the holiday season while supporting worthy causes at these Marin-centric charity events. CALIN VAN PARIS

MUSICAL CHARITY Ring in the season with tunes from the The Marin Project collaborative album.

The CD encompasses four decades and many genres of music, with 100 percent of profits going to Homeward Bound and the Salvation Army. And for those looking ahead to the new year, the Marin Project Concert will take place January 18 at the Marin Civic Center. themarinproject.com

A WALK TO REMEMBER Make a pilgrimage to the Smith Rafael Theater on December 6 to catch Walking the Camino: Six Ways to Santiago. The documentary chronicles seven real-life characters as they make their way down the ancient pilgrim path that stretches 500 miles from St. Jean Pied de Port, France, to Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain. “Walking the Camino gives people the time and space to think, feel and just be,” senior producer Theresa Coleman says of the famed trek. “If you are in transition and questioning your life, the Camino may just be the experience you need to find the answers.” Check out the film and discover how the walk changed the lives of the “cast.” caminodocumentary.org C.V.P.

DOGGIE DINNER Join Guide Dogs for the Blind on December 11 for its 37th annual holiday luncheon at the Westin St. Francis in San Francisco. All proceeds go to help train and socialize future guide dogs. guidedogs.com KEEP THE WHEELS TURNING Singer/songwriter and Larkspur local Michelle Schmitt (below) gives her fifth annual holiday concert benefiting Meals On Wheels of San Francisco. Don’t miss the special show, December 18 at the SFJAZZ Center. sfjazz.org

Living Large As 2013 wraps up, we would be remiss if we failed to mention the record real estate sale that took place this past October. Villa Belvedere, located at 425 Belvedere Avenue in Belvedere and home of the 2011 Marin Designers Showcase, reportedly sold for more than $25 million — the largest sum ever laid down for a property in Marin County.

Originally listed at $45 million, the 15,500-square-foot, three-story home sits on 1.15 acres and boasts seven bedrooms, a private health club, a home theater, bay views and parking for more than 20 cars, among several other amenities. Next Marin Magazine staff arty? We’ll bring the wine. C.V.P. 28 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

028-032 InMarin.CURRENTS.1213.indd 28

11/11/13 3:29 PM

STAY & SKI FREE

STARTING AT $143 PP/DO

SFO

SUN

DAILY NON-STOP FLIGHTS STARTING DECEMBER 12

SUNVALLEY.COM/DEALS

SunValley_1213_FNL.indd 1

11/7/13 3:32 PM

In Marin / CURRENTS

Santa Sightings Ol’ Saint Nick really gets around this time of year. Here are several locations where you can be sure to catch him (and some reader photos to get you in the spirit) . C.V.P.

BON AIR CENTER Santa stops by for free photos on his way north.

December 7, 14 and 21, noon to 4 p.m. bonair.com MARIN HISTORY MUSEUM ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARTY Visit Boyd Gate House for some good cheer — the bearded one will be stopping in, toys in tow. December 5, 5–8 p.m. marinhistory.org MILL VALLEY 2013 WINTERFEST Enjoy the snow slide, skating rink and Santa, all in the Depot Plaza. December 1, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. millvalley.org NICK’S COVE Santa will arrive by boat and be available for visits and photos.

December 8, 3–5 p.m. nickscove.com NORTHGATE MALL Don’t miss your photo op with Santa at his winter wonderland house, located near Macy’s.

December 1–23, Monday–Saturday 11 a.m.–8 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.–6 p.m.; December 24, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. shopatnorthgate.com NOVATO’S ANNUAL TREE LIGHTING Head to downtown Novato for music, Christmas cheer and an

appearance by Mr. Claus. December 7, 4:30–8:30 p.m. cityofnovato.org SAN ANSELMO HOLIDAY LIGHTING CEREMONY Swing by Town Hall Plaza for photos with Santa, a tree lighting and seasonal music. December 7, 5–6:30 p.m. sananselmochamber.org THE VILLAGE AT CORTE MADERA Find the man in red all month long at Santa’s Station by the center court Christmas tree. December 1–23, Monday–Sunday 11 a.m.–5 p.m.; December 24, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. villageatcortemadera.com TOWN CENTER Get your presents wrapped and take a picture with the big guy in the lobby of the 770 building. December 1, 7, 8, 14–24, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. shoptowncenter.com WEST END NURSERY The jolly old elf will be available for photos, and be sure to bring an unwrapped toy for Santa Cop (a toy drive sponsored by San Rafael Police and Fire departments). December 7, noon–2 p.m. sanrafaelsantacop.org, westendnursery.com

30 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

028-032 InMarin.CURRENTS.1213.indd 30

11/12/13 9:17 AM

Give The Gift Of Fine Food!

1 BLACKFIELD DR. TIBURON 388.2770

5627 PARADISE DR. CORTE MADERA 945.8855

WWW.FOODSOFPARADISE.COM

ParadiseFoods_1213_FNL.indd 1

470 IGNACIO BLVD. NOVATO 883.4600

11/1/13 10:53 AM

In Marin / CURRENTS

Filling the Gap PEACOCK GAP GOLF CLUB was established in 1959 and has been a popular wedding destination ever since. This month, Peacock opens the doors to its brand-new addition, the Clubhouse, but don’t let the unassuming name fool you — this is an event center the likes of which Marin has never seen. peacockgapgolfclub.com C.V.P.

2 years in planning

1,300 19,400

SQUARE FEET 1,400 MORE ZERO other ON THE ROOFTOP DECK Marin event centers of this size GUESTS INDOORS

Presented by the Sausalito On The Waterfront Foundation

Friday, December 13th

Naughty or Nice Ball

Food & Wine Tasting ~ Over Twenty Six Local Restaurants & Wineries, Silent Auction Dancing with WONDERBREAD FIVE

Saturday, December 14th

Daytime: Kids Holiday Activities • 10-2pm

Face & Ornament Painting, Cookie Decorating, Entertainment & Mr. & Mrs. Claus

Fine Art & Craft Holiday Gift Bazaar • 10-7pm

Fine wine & micro brews, hot chocolate & espresso drinks Brought to you by the Sausalito Art Festival Foundation

Nighttime: 26th Annual Lighted Boat Parade & Fireworks • 6pm

Over 50 Lighted Boats, Silent Auction, Food Trucks, No Host Bar, DJ all along the waterfront Sunday, December 15th

Fine Art & Craft Holiday Gift Bazaar • 10-5pm

Fine wine & micro brews, hot chocolate & espresso drinks

For More Information: www.SausalitoWinterfest.com The Sausa lito-on-the-Waterfront Foundation is a nonprofit 501 (C) 3, #90-0498166

Brought to you by the Sausalito Art Festival Foundation Design by Kimber Communications

32 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

028-032 InMarin.CURRENTS.1213.indd 32

11/11/13 3:29 PM

OldTownSquare CM_1213_FNL.indd 1

11/14/13 12:49 PM

In Marin / STYLE Low-back gown with metal beading

by Lavender Brown, $176, at Viva Diva (San Rafael), 415.256.8380.

New Year’s Eve Sparkle As 2013 comes to a close, celebrate in style with these shimmering party dresses.

VERONICA SOOLEY Barbie dress by Tart Collections, $158, at Koze (Tiburon), 415.435.1916.

Sequin sleeveless dress

by Fashionomics, $100, at Aphrodite (San Rafael), 415.457.1023.

Aurora sequin paillett maxi dress, $850, at Calypso St. Barth (Larkspur), 415.461.1745.

Silk burnout sequined dress by 10 Crosby Derek Lam, $995, at Saks Fifth Avenue (SF), 415.986.4300.

Layered dress by Deca Paris, $298, at UKO (Corte Madera), 415.927.1370.

SASHA GULISH (TOP)

Distressed sequin minidress by Robert Rodriguez, $598, at Intermix (Larkspur), 415.461.0118.

34 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

034 InMarin.STYLE.1213.indd 34

11/13/13 9:28 AM

marcobicego.com

Marco Bicego Trunk Show December 12th.

Meadowlark Fine Jewelry 412 Corte Madera Town Center 866.924.2210 l www.meadowlarkfineje elry.com meadowlarkgalleries@gmail.com

Meadowlark-Marco_1213_FNL.indd 1

10/25/13 12:39 PM

In Marin / CURRENTS

17 QUESTIONS FOR

Maggie McDonogh Captain Maggie is the fourth generation of the McDonogh family to ferry passengers from the Tiburon waterfront to Angel Island. It all started with her great grandfather, Samuel McDonogh, who ran McDonogh’s Chowder Boarding House on Tiburon’s Main Street (current site of Waypoint Pizza). Her grandfather, aka Sammy the Skiffman, helped the war efforts and anyone needing a water passage. While contracted to move Boat Captain airplanes on barges in the dark of night for the army, her father, Milton MILL VALLEY McDonogh, officially created the Angel Island Ferry Company in 1959.

Today, the only family-run ferry company in the Bay Area (and possibly the nation) is headed up by Maggie, partner William and their children Sam, Becky and Ben. This holiday season, our own Ferry Godmother (yes, it’s an official nickname) has much to celebrate with the success of her business, her family and vastly improved health now that she’s lost nearly 100 pounds. MIMI TOWLE If you hadn’t been born into the McDonogh family, what job would you do? No idea.

The fleet? We have three boats: Tamalpais holds 103, Bonita 98 and the Angel Island, which is about the same length as the others, but my dad built it to hold 400 passengers with excellent clearance [for shallow waters].

If we ever have a real emergency here it’s an asset.

3

Highlights? I love it when people show me old photos of themselves with my dad in the wheelhouse.

I’m reminded of how profound one person’s impact can be in a community — I feel completely honored to be doing this for a living.

4

Go-to tour tidbits? I love learning and I love teaching. I always point out wildlife and fun facts, like Captain Juan Gaspar de Portolá discovered the San Francisco Bay by accident when he passed Monterey, or actress Vivian Vance once lived in Belvedere, or how Al Capone moored his boat in Belvedere Cove, much to the frustration of local police. And I also tell the story of when my dad watched Capone being taken to Alcatraz from the railroad; he said all you could see were guards.

5

Wildlife? I’ve thought I was about to hit a log when a giant spray came out of the water and I realized it was a whale; lots of seals, elephant seals and sea lions; and lately I’ve been seeing bay porpoises, which is great news because they were gone for almost 60 years. It looks like they are making a comeback.

6

Most common misconception?

When someone calls the bay the ocean, I have my estuary discussion ready to go. This happens often.

7

Top three ferry rides on the planet? Other than the trip to Angel Island, BC Inland Passage to Victoria Island, the English Channel and heading to Tortola in the Virgin Islands.

8

Live in Tiburon? Nope, Mill Valley, in the home my mother, Mary Jane Gilmore, inherited from her mother, Thelma Van Atta Gilmore, who bought it directly from the builder.

9

Changes in Mill Valley? Yes, mostly positive, but I remember when people rode horses down Sycamore Avenue and kids could play flashlight tag without grumpy neighbors and if the guy on Horse Hill forgot to close the gate, we’d help him collect the horses. It was a much smaller town back then.

10

Favorite restaurant? I love the samosa chaat and naan at Prahb Indian Kitchen in Mill Valley or the green curry over quinoa at the Plant.

TIM PORTER

1 2

36 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

036-037 InMarin.QA.1213.indd 36

11/13/13 9:29 AM

Creating Independent Learners 11

How did you meet William? My dad found him. He walked into the Corinthian Yacht Club looking for work and my dad was impressed. Timing is everything.

12

You lost nearly 100 pounds? After my parents passed, I gained weight and finally, after feeling exhausted all the time and not being able to keep up with my children, I’d had enough. I went on the Paleo diet; it took more than a year, but now I feel like I did in my 20s.

13

Exercise? I love Rudy Kardos’ a.m. spin class at the TPC; I try to make it at least twice a week. Also, Bikram yoga, boogie boarding at Stinson, being outside with the kids.

14 15

Indulgences? I do love popcorn and houseroasted coffee.

Advice to others on weight loss? Worst-case scenario is you lose some weight and just maybe some of those aches and pains will go away. I don’t miss any of my old vices.

16 17

Favorite drink and where to drink it? My daughter’s lemonade, at home.

Your contract with the state is coming up for bid soon; are you nervous? Yes, our family has been running this ferry service since before Angel Island was a state park. We can just do our best and hope we keep the contract. We rely on the support of the community. m

Allaire School Marin’s Exceptional Elementary and Middle School Since 1984

Students’ programs are individualized so they learn to

compensate for their learning differences and/or ADHD,

develop organizational skills and build self-esteem.

Day School Open Enrollment • Tutoring Year Round

(415) 927-2640 • allaire-school.org 50 El Camino Drive, Corte Madera, CA 94925

036-037 InMarin.QA.1213.indd 37

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 37

11/11/13 2:54 PM

In Marin / CURRENTS

MADE BY MARIN

Thomas Fetherston

I

N A WORLD peppered with Pottery Barns and Restoration Hardwares,

home furnishings are fairly easy to come by. But what happens if that round, polished sandalwood table that seats 16 has yet to be realized by your favorite big box home store? Enter Custom Furniture Design.

Founded in 1978 by West Marin resident Thomas Fetherston, CFD can bring your furniture visions to life, literally — the company has built its reputation on a knack for designing whatever is needed, no matter the size, period or style. PHILOSOPHY Whether you choose to commission a custom piece or invest in one of Fetherston’s designs, everything is handcrafted to order. “Every piece we make is one-of-a-kind and unique,” he says. “Our goal is to bring the age-old craft of fine furniture making to every design for lasting quality and presence.” THE SCOOP Clients typically visit CFD with a desire for something special and, conferring with Fetherston and his craftspeople, design the perfect piece of furniture. Fetherston then follows up with sketches and samples for approval. Custom pieces can be formal, crafted from polished exotic woods, or rustic, made to look like they have been in your family for generations — and everything in between. BEYOND MARIN Although Fetherston and his working studio are now located in San Francisco’s design district, he credits the West Marin countryside (he and his wife, Cynthia, live on a horse ranch in Lagunitas) for much of his creative inspiration; many of the original prototype designs are crafted in his barn. When the lease on his current studio expires, Fetherston plans to move his business to San Rafael. WHAT THEY SAY “Versatility, fine workmanship and our vast experience are what make CFD unique. We can design, engineer and fabricate anything from a 20-foot-long rustic wine-tasting table for a local winery to a leather-wrapped remote-control TV lift cabinet for a VIP’s bedroom.” CALIN VAN PARIS WALNUT GRID CREDENZA, $6,750

BAY BAR CART, $5,950

WALNUT SLAB DINING TABLE, $9,750

SAIL SIDE TABLE, $1,750

TEXTURED HOURGLASS TABLE, $2,950

38 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

038 InMarin.MADEBYMARIN.1213.indd 38

11/11/13 3:02 PM

The Way It Should Be Some trail maps tell you where to go. We tell you where to begin.

Discover the way it should be with a mountain of top-rated experiences like the one-of-a-kind Burton Academy, our top-ranked Ski & Snowboard School, impeccable grooming, and incredible tree-skiing. If Shaun White calls this mountain home then you will too.

Northstar_1213_FNL.indd 1

1.888.976.4740 • NorthstarCalifornia.com

10/29/13 2:51 PM

P R OMOT I O N

Connect

WITH US

• online Coming Soon The Marin Magazine website is being redesigned, simplified and given a new, cleaner look.

But that’s not all. The site is also being converted to HTML5, which means it will be easily scalable to work better and look great on tablets and smartphones as well as your desktop or laptop computer — the site will determine which device you are on and customize your viewing experience accordingly. Be sure to add a link to your phone’s bookmarks and look for these changes coming soon. marinmagazine.com

Cover Contest It’s that time again. Marin Magazine is pleased to announce its eighth annual cover contest. We are seeking work from outstanding artists who live, show in or create images of the county. One lucky entrant will have his or her art on our May 2014 cover and will join several finalists whose work will also appear in a feature story in the same issue. The deadline is March 3 and the contest is open to illustrators, painters and photographers. We can’t wait to the see the entries. marinmagazine.com/getcovered

Holiday Recipes In our last issue we featured a holiday in wine country that readers loved.

But even more fun were seven recipes by Ram’s Gate chef Taylr Behnam for dishes like maple-brined turkey and pomegranate leg of lamb that you can make at home. Give a few of these a try and impress your family over the holidays. marinmagazine. com/ramsgate

040 CONNECT.1213.indd 40

We Want Your Opinion What do you love about Marin Magazine and what can we improve on? As part of our semiannual circulation audit through the Circulation Verification Council, we are asking readers to take a few minutes to complete an online survey. We’ll use the answers to learn more about your preferences and to serve you even better. One lucky respondent will receive a $500 gift certificate for a shopping spree in The Village at Corte Madera; another two will win $100 certificates for dining at The Caprice restaurant in Tiburon. Take the survey now for a chance to win. marinmagazine.com/readersurvey

11/13/13 3:27 PM

Enjoy the gifts of the season.

Enjoy Mill Valley

Take time to look our y best.

Cozy up in a Margar et sweater.

45 Camino Alto, Suite 201 (415) 320-4975, RadiantSkincm.com

14 Miller Avenue (415) 388-2390, margaretoleary.com

31 Sunnyside Avenue (415) 226-8336, weatherednest.net

Blithedale Millthe Valleyedit.

We cook, you tak 414e MILLER AVE. cr 731 EAST BLITHEDALE

Give a gift of ood f and wine .

Enjoy playtime with a fur ry friend.

(415)381-3900

(415)381-1200

Don’t get your tinsel in a tangle .

731 E. Blithedale Avenue, 414 Miller Avenue Order online at shop.wholefoods.com

22 Miller Avenue (415) 388-2000, piazzadangelo.com

701 Strawberry Village (415) 388-7387, woodlandspet.com

Shop. Wrap. Ship.

Wrap yourself in a luxurious war drobe.

Give the gift of elaxation. r

38 Miller Avenue (415) 381-9727, allwrappedup.com

153 Throckmorton Avenue (415) 381-1144, oska-millvalley.com

165 Throckmorton Avenue (415) 389-6608, marinhotels.com

The best small-town shopping in Marin.

Another reason to Enjoy Mill Valley.

MVChamber_1213_FNL.indd 2

www.facebook.com/EnjoyMillValley

11/8/13 2:15 PM

In Marin / FYI

Marin’s Shangri-la?

The ’60s enclave of Druid Heights still exists, but you won’t find it on any map.

BY JIM WOOD PHOTOS BY TIM PORTER

I

N THE 1960s, a community of activists, poets, mystics and radical thinkers lived on the southwest flank of Mount Tamalpais. The area was called Druid Heights, and it was surrounded by groves of pine, oak and eucalyptus and acres of chaparral, sage and clinging vines. It took well over a mile on a rutted dirt road to reach the place.

Now, more than 50 years later, Druid Heights is still surrounded by dense trees, chaparral and hilly terrain — and getting there still takes almost two miles of travel over a rocky dirt road. The activists, mystics and poets are gone, and only two of the original 14 buildings are still habitable. Yet because of Ed and Marilyn Stiles, its legacy remains strong.

“We moved here in 1965,” says Ed, an affable 74-year-old who’s made a living over the decades designing and crafting one-of-a-kind hardwood furniture for Bay Area churches and upscale

42 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

042-047 InMarin.FYIDruid.1213.indd 42

11/13/13 9:31 AM

THE WAY YOUR WINE IS MEANT TO BE STORED. www.OenoVaults.com | 888.906.0787 | 707.595.3612

OenoVaults_1113_FNL.indd 1

10/9/13 1:00 PM

In Marin / FYI

We came from a conservative background, but as a young couple Marilyn and I wanted to be close to nature, work with our hands and own our own lives. homes. “We came from a conservative background, but as a young couple Marilyn and I wanted to be close to nature, work with our hands and own our own lives.” Over the years, Marilyn, a sculptor, and Ed, a woodworker, did just that, while raising two sons and building a marriage that has lasted 48 years. While at Druid Heights, they also encountered, at close range, enough 1960s and ’70s counterculture to fill a Tom Wolfe novel.

During its prime in the late 1960s, “Druid Heights consisted of 10 to 12 residences and maybe 34 people,” Marilyn recalls. “Our neighborhood was named by the poet Elsa Gidlow,” Ed adds. “She bought the land in partnership with my friend Roger Somers.”

One cultural historian claims the name honors Gidlow’s close friend Ella Young, a UC Berkeley poetry professor given to wearing purple gowns like those wore by druids in medieval Europe.

Somers was a white-haired, white-bearded philosopher, musician and woodworker who would “work and play with equal intensity and switch from one to the other with greater ease than anyone I’ve ever known or even heard

This page, clockwise

from top left: Interior about,” Ed says. He of the home of Ed “would enter a room and Marilyn Stiles; exterior of the same and suck the air right home; Ed Stiles in his out of it,” Marilyn adds. woodworking shop.

But if Somers stirred things up at Druid Heights, his lady-friend Margo St. James was the magnet who lured creative types here from the outside during 1967’s Summer of Love. The legendary HaightAshbury free-clinic operator, crusader for decriminalization of prostitution, and president of COYOTE (Call Off our Old Tired Ethics) “seemed to know everyone who was anyone at the time,” Marilyn notes.

It was Elsa Gidlow, nearly 70 at the time, who brought the Anglican minister turned Zen philosopher Alan Watts to the enclave.

The year was 1968, and Watts’ recently published The Joyous Cosmology: Adventures in the Chemistry of Consciousness, about the effects of LSD, was attracting nationwide attention. “He was quite a presence,” Ed recalls, “but I don’t know if it was all for the good. Granted, he was an intellect, but he was also a bit of an opportunist.”

44 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

042-047 InMarin.FYIDruid.1213.indd 44

11/14/13 2:19 PM

MARIN MAGAZINE’S ANNUAL COVER ART CONTEST

CALL

for

ENTRIES

Get Covered!

ATTENTION ARTISTS: Enter the Eighth Annual Cover Art Contest.

WINNERS: A winner from one of the following categories: painting, photography and illustration.

EXPOSURE: The winner will be featured on the cover of the May 2014 issue.

ENTER NOW AT: MARINMAGAZINE.COM/GETCOVERED

PHO

TOG

Y RAPH

PA I N T I N G

I L LU ST

R AT

IO

N

entry rules and regulations can be found at marinmagazine.com/getcovered. deadline for entry is march 3, 2014.

CoverContest_1213_FNL.indd 1

10/24/13 1:44 PM

In Marin / FYI

Saturday, December 14 | Marin FREE WEIGHT LOSS SEMINAR sutterpacific.org/bariatrics

ONE YOU, 9 LOCATIONS CARING FOR MARIN Whether you’re seeking a pediatrician in San Rafael, breast surgeon in Greenbrae, psychiatrist in Corte Madera, urgent care in Terra Linda or award-winning joint replacement at Novato Community Hospital, Sutter Health’s medical network covers Marin County. Expert care, right in your back yard – it’s another way we plus you.

sutterhealth.org/marin

Novato Community Hospital Sutter Pacific Medical Foundation

One Druid Heights resident Ed remembers fondly is Pulitzer Prize–winning poet Gary Snyder, who lives in the Sierra foothills today.

“Like Marilyn and me, he was married with two children, and we had wonderful talks; I thought he was a genius,” Ed says. “Having Gary as a neighbor was the best of Druid Heights, he was the purest intellect I’ve ever met.” Notable visitors who were known to live there or stop in frequently include author Tom Robbins, musician Dizzy Gillespie, photographer Imogen Cunningham, rockers Neil Young and Graham Nash and feminist lawyer Catharine MacKinnon, author of a landmark

Notable visitors included author Tom Robbins, musician Dizzy Gillespie, photographer Imogen Cunningham and rockers Neil Young and Graham Nash. book on workplace sexual harassment. “One afternoon, I went looking for our boys and ran into Lily Tomlin,” Marilyn adds with a laugh.

Ed’s favorite memory: “On a moonlit night, I climbed into my hot tub and there was Judy Collins — we had a delightful conversation.”

More than anything else, he reflects, Druid Heights “was an intense manifestation of what was going on in the city at the time, only with a rural flip.” Imagine “going down a dark rocky road,” he adds, “and finally coming upon a secluded community where, in a workshop, a group of people are jamming extemporaneous jazz and Dizzy Gillespie is playing in the middle of it all.”

46 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

042-047 InMarin.FYIDruid.1213.indd 46

11/11/13 1:51 PM

By the early 1970s, hard drugs were also finding their way in. “One new neighbor, one of the ‘Owsley people,’ supposedly an originator of clear-light acid, started bringing the stuff n a regular basis,” says Ed, “and soon, instead of musical instruments, we were hearing about guns some thought were needed for their security.” Little by little, the spirit of achievement, adventure and fun disappeared.

Are the Stileses, the last of the original Druid Heights residents, angry now? “I don’t like to think of myself in that way,” Ed replies.

“I’ve had so many good breaks; how can I bitch about what happened?”

In 1973, Alan Watts died while living at Druid Heights; then in 2001, two days after 9/11, the charismatic Roger Somers was found dead in his hot tub. Two years later the Golden Gate National Recreation Area purchased the five-acre property; under the terms of the negotiations, the Stiles retained the right to live there the rest of their lives.

Elsa Gidlow died in 1986 at age 88 while living on the property. Margo St. James, 77, lives and grows organic fruits and vegetables in the San Juan Islands, near her hometown of Bellingham, Wash. The National Park Service, which oversees the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, is now pondering whether or not to place Druid Heights on the National Register of Historic Places.

Sitting contentedly today in his home that was originally a chicken barn, Ed notes that Druid Heights was “an unintentional community,” as residents used to say. He’s not particularly anxious that its story be told, but “I had more fun here than I’d ever had in my life,” he freely admits. “Still, a lot of good work was done here,” he adds. “It was unpredictable and sporadic; you never knew what you’d find.” m

DO YOU Invest blInDfOlDeD?

“

Knowing your risk tolerance score is important.

Phone us today for a complimentary risk tolerance analysis to determine how you rank.

And remove your investing blindfold.

”

James E. Demmert, Managing Partner

MAIN STREET RESEARCH LLC

Wealth Management If you have investment assets of $1 million or more, we welcome the opportunity to meet with you for a no-cost wealth management review and analysis.

30 l i b e r t y S h i P W ay , t h i r d f l o o r , S a u S a l i t o C a l i f o r n i a 94965

800.357.3863 | 415.289.1010 | WWW.mS-reSearCh.Com

PAST PERFORMANCE IS NOT INDICATIVE OF FUTURE RESULTS. MAIN STREET CLIENT PORTFOLIOS ARE MANAGED SEPARATELY AND VARY IN REGARD TO RISK AND RETURN DEPENDENT UPON INDIVIDUAL CLIENT CIRCUMSTANCES. NEITHER THE INFORMATION NOR ANY OPINION EXPRESSED HEREIN CONSTITUTES A SOLICITATION BY MAIN STREET OF THE PURCHASE OR SALE OF ANY SECURITIES OR OTHER FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS NOR A RECOMMENDATION TO HOLD, SELL, BUY, OR OWN A PARTICULAR SECURITY OR SECTOR IN YOUR PORTFOLIO. MAIN STREET RESEARCH LLC IS A REGISTERED INVESTMENT ADVISOR. INDIVIDUAL EXPERIENCES MAY DIFFER. CERTIFIED FINANCIAL BOARD OF STANDARDS INC. OWNS THE CERTIFICATION MARKS CFP®, Certified finanCial Planner™ AND IN THE U.S. NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BOARD CERTIFIED ADVISORY PRACTICES (NABCAP) IS AN INDEPENDENT RESOURCE TO OBJECTIVELY ACCOUNT FOR THE ACCURACY AND CONSISTENCY OF ADVISORY PRACTICES. MAIN STREET IS UNAFFILIATED WITH NABCAP AND DID NOT PAY ANY FEES FOR INCLUSION ON THIS LIST. VISIT NABCAP.ORG FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON THE RANKING PROCESS

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 47

042-047 InMarin.FYIDruid.1213.indd 47

11/12/13 12:02 PM

oast T ’Tenders to the

Mixing it up with some of the county’s most beloved bartenders.

48 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

048-055 Feature.BARTEND.1213.indd 48

11/12/13 10:14 AM

BY MIMI TOWLE AND CALIN VAN PARIS PHOTOS BY LORI EANES M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 49

048-055 Feature.BARTEND.1213.indd 49

11/12/13 10:15 AM

˜ Years bartending? It’s been 26 years off and on. ˜ Where else? Baxter’s Nightclub four years, Acapulco Cantina one year, Uncle Charlie’s one year, Faultline nightclub five years, Lark Creek Inn four years, Ondine one year; Bedroxx, Tazmania, Ricardo’s, Berman’s, many overlapped. ˜ Like best about Buckeye? It’s a real bar, a nice bar, not a dive or an adjunct to a restaurant. People go to the Buckeye to go to the bar. ˜ Signature cocktail? Rye Manhattan: Michter’s, Aperol, orange bitters, giant ice cube with a frozen cherry. ˜ Secret drink? I do enjoy a mai tai every once in a while, with an umbrella, but only in secret. ˜ When someone has had too much, you say… Easy way: “Let’s get you some coffee and a ride home.” Hard way: “You either leave here in a yellow car or a black-and-white one.”

MANHATTAN

˜ Favorite˜bar? 19 Broadway (seen some great shows) or Farmshop (comfortable and convenient).˜ ˜ Favorite drink and where?˜Meyer lemon cucumber kamikaze at Boca Tavern; I finally taught Brian how to make it. ˜ What career would you compare bartending to? Marathon runner/psychologist. Twelve miles a day (I used a pedometer once) with people telling you their problems all the way.

EL DIABLO

˜ Go-to joke?˜Guest: “Can we get a drink here?” Me: “Sure, we’re even thinking of opening up a bar around here.”

Story

It’s truly shocking what people will do or talk about right in front of a bartender; while I’m just three feet away, it’s like I’m invisible. Or it’s fun how they will remember me from one of their memorable nights. A couple came in a while ago and showed me a photo I had taken years ago. The wife said, “It’s when I told my husband I was pregnant,” and the next photo was of their 17-year-old daughter. I don’t remember taking the photo, but I probably did. For me it’s another day at work, but for many people it’s a significant event.

re or mo g ba r f n i n Mi l l i d n E e OUS H been t D s a A h RT s book E RO CKE Y R K HA n of hi ures o U U i t B B a e F c nt bli JEF s at th ent pu pirited Adve e 3 ye a r he rec S t e l onlin h t ha n 1 l h t i a T tell a r s: e a nd w B , h y t d o e n t s l i l a ice ty Va s B eh i s ad v identi y Year er, his a led. H d e a nd T went n v e s e t r e r wa s l Ba e sho a l y l e b F a R r t a a r fo of eB g uest. a r com i st T h ut the e n o b W m : a u s l ’s r co de , it ut you ba r ten ot abo f uture n ’s t i ber remem 50 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

048-055 Feature.BARTEND.1213.indd 50

11/13/13 9:38 AM

FOX in t WILD staura nt a g n i d e ba r ten ed out as a r t g, that s been r a a h t d s E n e e in N t I H r .

A a s T b r or ye a uture Y FON t a st e f t h ree ce to f a i t v d u BO B B d e o r a b i u is o for a ave . H he acq Novat ther h t once a u r b , ’d r e e g bh ma na ’s no jo ; there joy. t i s a w n ders: E ba r ten

˜ Years bartending? Decades. ˜ Where else? Noonan’s Bar and Grill. ˜ Like best about WildFox? Since we are next to the Best Western, I get to meet interesting people like photographers on assignment and race car drivers. ˜ Signature cocktail? Cafe Robert: Baileys, Cointreau and coffee — it’s short and sweet and will keep you up all night. ˜ Secret drink? Dahlia’s Delight: Baileys, Kahlua, Frangelico and cream. ˜ If someone’s had too much, you say… “How about some water?” They usually get the hint. ˜ Favorite bar? Benissimo in Corte Madera. ˜ Favorite drink? Triple M: Midori, margarita, martini. Any Hawaiian island will do. ˜ What career would you compare bartending to? When I first started, I thought I would have to be a jet fighter pilot and rock ’n’ roll star to have a job better than this —and I still feel that way. ˜ Go-to joke?˜How come cannibals don’t eat clowns? They taste funny.

Story

FOX FLAMBÉ

Men are taught that the way to a woman’s heart is through chocolate.

Through my years of bartending I’ve learned that it’s not chocolate — it’s salt content. These days it’s proven by the popularity of the dirty martini among women. So guys, for a fun night, fi x your gal a really dirty martini, put out a bowl of salt-and-vinegar potato chips and stand back and let the party begin.

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 51

048-055 Feature.BARTEND.1213.indd 51

11/13/13 9:38 AM

Story

As a relatively new bartender, I’d say my favorite story would be a fun game I play with a bartender who works at a neighboring bar. We love to see how many guests throughout our shift we can send to the other one’s bar. Most guests typically come in for one or two, but when they meet us, they’ll be there for hours. They take lots of pictures, make great memories and become longtime returning customers.

is TAVERN HOUSE e L E im R t R e som of BA MINGS pending s M rel r w U a o C n B t Y NE . She is b ac k a g e b in l d COURT il n e w t rn ever y t but w t o ba r ers: Lea her cra f d g n e in fa irly ne t n r o a h eb le.

Orlea ns to f utur s possib in New . Adv ice s of ten a e a n t u , a nd n J h e e O . om ex perim gether o d t n House c r e. k a r s o n ey w s out the questio d how th best job n e a h s day. A sk t t f c o u d ne our pro ding is o L ea r n y e ba r ten s u a c e b , h ave f u n

˜ Years bartending? My one-year anniversary was on September 25, but I have been in the food-serving business for 15 years. ˜ Where else? Before the Barrel House I worked at the Beach Chalet in San Francisco for three years. When the general manager and my mentor Ginny Brown moved from the Chalet to Barrel House, she brought me along.

THE PIONEER AND BABY-FACED NELSON

˜ Like best about Barrel House? The owner, Chris Henry, and Ginny encourage us to be creative and bold. They continually nurture our inner mixologist. ˜ Signature cocktail? I created a cocktail before I left called Sweet November (you know, after the movie with Charlize Theron filmed in San Francisco). It’s a simple take on our barrel-aged Manhattan with creme de cacao, lemon juice and a pumpkinspiced cinnamon. ˜ Secret drink? I love sweet and spicy, so serrano peppers muddled with passion fruit makes for one upgraded margarita. Don’t forget the cilantro and hibiscus-sugared rim. ˜ When someone has had too much you say… I have a trick most of us call “juicing.” It’s when we serve the guest everything but the alcohol in their mocktail. It makes the situation better for everyone and˜the guest leaves a little more sober. ˜ Favorite bar? The Mix on 18th and Castro [in S.F.]. They have maintained the same friendly staff for years. There’s no better feeling than walking into a bar where everyone knows your name, and Silvia makes the best handcrafted cocktails. ˜ Favorite drink and where? I have had the best Corpse Reviver #2 repeatedly at Tunnel Top [in the city] over by Broadway. Nothing fancy, just solid and refreshing. ˜ What career would you compare bartending to? I don’t think it’s really comparable to any other job. We work very flexible hours; people pay me to have a great time, put on a show and be free to create. What more is there? ˜ Go-to joke? I don’t have one yet!

52 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

048-055 Feature.BARTEND.1213.indd 52

11/13/13 9:39 AM

˜ Years bartending? I’ve been doing it for 32 years. ˜ Where else? In Chicago, San Francisco and in the Russian River area. ˜ What do you like best about Marin Joe’s? The regulars. They’ve treated me very well over time — of course, they may just be feeling sorry for an old geezer. A special shout-out to my favorite Shirley Temple drinkers: Ethan and sister Elise. ˜ Signature cocktail? Sammyslammer.

COSMOPOLITAN

˜ Secret drink? The Slammer, mentioned above, because it’s never the same — it’s a secret to me half the time. ˜ If someone has had too much, you say… Working a bar in the city, I had a regular who’d had enough to drink, so I called a cab.

When it arrived, I told the guy the cab he asked for had arrived. He left, but the next day he came in and said, “I didn’t ask for a cab last night, did I?” So it goes. ˜ Favorite bar? Red’s Recovery Room, Cotati. It was such a great name Tom Waits used it in a song. Unfortunately, the place has gone away. ˜ Favorite drink and where? Back when I used to drink, I liked Irish coffees a lot — an upper and downer in the same glass. Buena Vista in the city and Brennan’s in Berkeley were the best. ˜ What career would you compare bartending to? It ain’t rocket science. ˜ Go-to joke? A guy walks into a bar and orders 15 shots of whiskey; bartender sets ’em up. Guy starts slammin’ ’em down, one after the other. Bartender says, “Hey, slow down, why are you drinking like that?”

The guy replies, “If you had what I have, you’d be drinking like this too.”

Bartender says, “Oh man, whatta you got?” The guy says, “One dollar.”

Story

A woman comes into the bar many years ago on a very busy night. She asks for a Pink Squirrel (cocktail). I had no idea what went into a Pink Squirrel (and still don’t) so I made something up, adding this and that until it sort of turned pink. The woman drank it, shoved the empty glass my way and said, “That wasn’t a Pink Squirrel but I’ll take another.”

Another what? I forgot immediately what I’d put in the glass. I suppose I made her another “pink thing” but I don’t remember. It was a long time ago.

at MARIN lding court o h n e n’t e b s N ha nders: Do B R A N DS O ture ba rte fu to . e g ic in v SA M G U L is ad a rtend 21 yea rs. H , it ’s just b n o ’m C y.

JOE’S for ousl elf too seri ta ke yours

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 53

048-055 Feature.BARTEND.1213.indd 53

11/13/13 9:40 AM

˜ Years bartending? It’s been 14 years. ˜ Where else? I started˜at Gatsby’s in Sausalito,˜for about a year, then at Saylor’s Landing for seven years until it closed in 2007. ˜ What do you like best about the places you work? I˜basically look forward to going to work, connecting with customers and the crew of either place — cooks, dishwashers, bussers, waitstaff, hostesses, other bartenders. ˜ Signature cocktail? I’ve been told I make a very good negroni. ˜ Secret drink? Can’t tell you. ˜ If someone has had too much, you say… There are times I will ask if a person is driving when I think they’ve reached˜the limit but they want another drink.˜Sometimes there is no delicate way to cut people off or get their keys from them — you just have to be straightforward with them (and alert management). ˜ Favorite bar? Peri’s in downtown Fairfax. ˜ Favorite drink and where? Chardonnay, at home after a busy shift. ˜ What career would you compare bartending to? Counseling, and sometimes babysitting. ˜ Go-to joke? Thom O’Sullivan stopped into the Shamrock Lounge every Thursday and ordered three pints, sayin’, “Here’s one for me brother, one for me father and one for meself.”˜Then one Thursday he ordered two pints, and when the bartender asked why, he said, “I quit drinkin’.”

Story

One day at Rancho Nicasio I was talking with a customer who°told me he was°from Montana. I mentioned that I had°another customer from Montana, who happened to walk in shortly thereafter — turns out they knew each other and hadn’t seen one another in over ten years.

SAILOR’S DELIGHT

LORA LEE B R SAYL OR’S OWN has been REST for si beh AU xy — the ears. Adv RANT & B ind the b a i y’ ce to AR a nd RA r at both fu close ll follow y NCH ou wh ture bart d wh O NIC en ende er polit rs: Bu ASIO ics, re it comes t ever you ild a c go — o°cus ligion liente and k tome and g le e rs’ re ossip lation ep your m . outh ships ,°busi ness,

54 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

048-055 Feature.BARTEND.1213.indd 54

11/13/13 9:40 AM

ST E HO VE G IZ Z US I ye a E rs. OF C of No His v HO PS ato ha ad v in M sb ice ee to f i utu ll Va l n ten di re b ley ar t for a ng ba end r l ers ittle m at EL P is s im ore th ASEO ple a : Be n t w o hu mb le.

ANCHOR STEAM

˜ Years bartending? About 15 years. ˜ Where else? Picco five years, Insalata’s five years and Vasco for three. ˜ Like best about El Paseo? Working with the old and rare bottles in Sammy’s cellar. ˜ Signature cocktail? Old Crow old-fashioned (my grandmother’s drink of choice — first cocktail I ever made). ˜ Secret drink? Blood orange margarita. ˜ If someone has had too much you say… “How far do you have to travel tonight?” ˜ Favorite bar? Willi’s in Healdsburg or MoMo’s before a Giants game. ˜ Favorite drink and where? A gin-and-tonic˜at the PGA West clubhouse in Palm Springs overlooking the 18th green after a round of golf. ˜ What career would you compare bartending to? A baseball catcher. ˜ Go-to joke?˜A barman says, “We don’t serve time travelers here.” A time traveler walks into a bar.

Story

A few years ago I was working at a restaurant frequented by quite a few match.com dates. One evening a woman sat at the bar and ordered a glass of wine and said she was meeting a blind date.°After the date arrived, they began their conversation and I could tell right away that his comments were not making an impression — she quickly broke o˛ the date. He paid the tab and left.°About a half hour later she returned and had a drink.°We actually had a couple of dates before I met the woman who became my wife at the same restaurant.°This female customer and I have been friends ever since.

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 55

048-055 Feature.BARTEND.1213.indd 55

11/13/13 9:41 AM

DARE TO SHARE Marinites reap the unexpected rewards of the shared economy trend.

BY AUSTIN MURPHY COLLAGE BY VERONICA SOOLEY

056-059 Feature.SHARED.1213.2.indd 56

11/13/13 9:43 AM

TO BETTER UNDERSTAND ONE OF THE MOST POWERFUL socioeconomic trends washing over this county — and country — consider the case of Leila, who preferred that we not use her last name.

Leila and her husband moved to Sausalito in 2000. They were comfortable — both had lucrative careers — but not necessarily happy. After their divorce in ’03, she went back to school to become a therapist. “Very rewarding, much less lucrative,” she says. “But I wanted to live my life, instead of live for retirement.”

She streamlined and economized. She grew food in her backyard. To help pay the mortgage on her three-bedroom home, she lived with a succession of roommates. It seemed like a good idea at the time. “But when you’re between 35 and 40,” says Leila, with a smile, “you realize that doesn’t work. I mean, people are lovely, but I don’t want them living in my house.”

056-059 Feature.SHARED.1213.2.indd 57

11/13/13 9:43 AM

A

FRIEND SUGGESTED SHE try Airbnb, a website connecting people who have space to spare with those looking for a temporary place to stay. Founded five years ago by a pair of broke San Franciscans who rented the living room in their loft to conventioneers unable to fi find hotel rooms, that site had facilitated lodging for 8.5 million guests as of last September — more than a few at chez Leila, who overcame her initial skepticism.

“At first I thought, Yeah, that’s all I need is complete strangers traipsing through my house.” But she heeded people’s suggestions about the possible benefits and opened her mind. “I really believe the universe sends you little signals.”

Three years ago Leila created an Airbnb profile and made one of her spare bedrooms available for rent. Her experience has been highly positive. “In eight nights, I could make as much in rent as I could from having a full-time roommate,” she says. At fi rst, she rented the room only seven or eight nights per month. As time went on, she says, “I realized, I really enjoy doing this.

I was meeting some really great people.”

Like many Marin residents, Leila harbors a robust pride of place. She takes pleasure in sharing the county’s treasures: hiking trails, farmers’ markets, beaches. “I’ve got a guest here now from Cyprus,” she said in September, “just a fascinating woman. I’ve had all these really interesting visitors. I get to meet these amazing people from all over the world doing cool things with their lives.” Not long ago, she took one of her guests all the way out to Limantour Beach. “We got along really well,” she recalls. “And it’s neat to show people Marin and how incredible this place is.”

Mark her down as a highly satisfied participant in Marin’s sharing economy, which, incidentally, o° ers far more than an inexpensive place to lay one’s head at night. You can log in to sites serving as digital clearinghouses for goods and services ranging from parking (parkingpanda.com) to pet care (dogvacay.com) to power tools (snapgoods.com) to, yes, pigs (rootdownfarm.net). And that’s just the p’s. The so-called “sharing economy” is here, and it’s not going away. By capitalizing “on the unused capacity of things they already have,” as Forbes magazine recently put it, Leila and countless others are acting as “part-time entrepreneurs, disrupting old notions about consumption and ownership.”

In a 2011 TED talk that has generated more than 365,000 views, Mill Valley resident Lisa Gansky, author of The Mesh: Why the Future of Business Is Sharing, attributed the rise of the sharing economy to various factors. Those “vectors,” as she calls them, include population growth (“more people, smaller spaces, less stu° ”), a recession that forced people to “rethink our relationship with the things in our lives, relative to [their] value,” and a technological revolution connecting each of us to “more people on the planet than ever before.”

One of the many upsides of this new-school mode of commerce is that it engenders old-school behaviors like socializing. Face to face! Not Skyping or FaceTiming, but in person. People come for the modest income stream, but, like Leila, they end up staying for the excellent company — for the sense of community that these transactions tend to foster.

“More than almost anything else we can do, sharing takes a load off people,” says Janelle Orsi, a Berkeley-based lawyer whose books include Practicing Law in the Sharing Economy and The Sharing Solution: How to Save Money, Simplify Your Life and Build Community. Sharing, she says, “takes an environmental load o° the world. And it makes our lives better, because we’re social creatures, and when we connect with each other, we just naturally feel good.”

In f ull agreement is Scott Adams, a retired a rchitect liv ing in Greenbrae, who has made friends from Brooklyn to Barcelona to San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, thanks to Airbnb. “We’re people people,” he says, explaining why he and his partner, Marti, prefer the personal interactions that come with staying in someone’s home, versus the antiseptic if more predictable and controllable experience of staying in a hotel. By staying in non-touristy neighborhoods and gratefully accepting the guidance of their hosts on where to go and what to do, the traveling duo has wrung the maximum from their journeys.

“The lady in Barcelona had her map out,” Adams recounts; “she told us, ‘Okay, I’ve laid out all the places you want to go, and here’s where you get the subway to get there.’˛” Staying in a different bedroom in the same residence was an Australian couple with whom they’ve become fast friends. “They want us to stay with them,” says Adams, “and we’ve invited them to stay with us.”

Of course, the friendships and bonding and restaurant recommends are secondary reasons for the success of Airbnb,

IN EIGHT NIGHTS, I COULD MAKE AS MUCH IN RENT AS I COULD FROM HAVING A FULL-TIME ROOMMATE.

58 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

056-059 Feature.SHARED.1213.2.indd 58

11/13/13 9:44 AM

behind the dinero. Instead of dropping $250 per night on hotels in cities like Brooklyn or Paris, Adams is spending $75.

“It’s a great way to travel after you retire,” he says. Thanks to Airbnb, “Our vacations are now a month long.”

This relatively new business model is raising new questions about who owes what to whom. The attorney general of New York state recently subpoenaed host data from the 225,000 New Yorkers on Airbnb’s site. FlightCar, the peer-to-peer car sharing and parking service, was sued last spring by the city of San Francisco˜for operating as a rental car company without having jumped through all the required legal hoops at SFO. Airport o° cials even reported arresting drivers of other ride-dispatching services like Uber and Lyft over the summer for misdemeanor trespassing violations amid complaints from local taxi drivers also operating out of SFO. City councils all over the country are considering ordinances to better regulate — and, tax — these short-term rental services.

“Almost everything that’s happening in the sharing economy is in a bit of a gray area,” says Orsi, “because it’s somewhere between what we usually do at home, with our families, and what we usually do in the context of business.

If we open up our homes for a community dinner and charge a fee, or if we start to rent our cars for a few dollars an hour, it does start to creep toward that commercial zone. It’s hard to know where the line is.”

It’s also di° cult to imagine this movement fading away.

Orsi sees things going in the opposite direction. With so many models and platforms for sharing “popping up everywhere,” the culture is changing. “Ten years from now,” she says, “ we’ll probably have di˛ erent expectations about how we get our needs met.”

Who knows how many cool people Leila will have met by then? “I thought I was doing it for the money,” she says. “But it’s ended up enriching my life.” m

˝ TRY IT YOURSELF AIRBNB Find places to stay in 192 countries. airbnb.com BIKE SHARE Borrow parked bikes from kiosks around the city with just a swipe of a member card. sfbike.org/bikeshare DOGVACAY Find a local dog sitter. dogvacay.com FON Lend out a portion of your home Wi-Fi and gain access to Wi-Fi networks in all corners of the world. fon.com GETAROUND Rent out cars by the hour in your community. getaround.com LENDING CLUB Join this online financial community to experience a simpler method of borrowing and investing. lendingclub.com LYFT Enjoy peer-to-peer ride-sharing for a simple “donation” rather than a fare. lyft.me MARIN OPEN GARDEN PROJECT Exchange excess fruit, vegetables and other goodies with other county gardeners. opengardenproject. blogspot.com NEIGHBORGOODS Lend and borrow goods, like ladders and tools, in a safe community. neighborgoods.com PARKING PANDA Reserve discounted parking in more than 500,000 spaces. parkingpanda.com POSHMARK What’s in your closet? Buy and sell clothes with this online closet/shopping site. poshmark.com RELAYRIDES Rent vehicles (or rent out your own) on this nationwide marketplace. relayrides.com SIDECAR This app matches people in their own car with people nearby for shared rides. side.cr SNAPGOODS Borrow or rent things you need like bikes or backpacks from someone nearby. snapgoods.com SPINLISTER Find the best bikes, skis and snowboards to rent online from individuals or rental shops. spinlister.com TASKRABBIT Get it done. Outsource tasks and errands to fellow TaskRabbits. taskrabbit.com URBANSITTER Find area babysitters recommended by people you know and trust. urbansitter.com VAYABLE Get matched with a local to take you on an insider tour during your next vacation, or become a tour guide yourself. vayable.com YERDLE Give and get for free with Yerdle’s “credit” system. yerdle.com ZAARLY Request tasks or items for a set price. zaarly.com ZIPCAR The world’s largest car sharing service. zipcar.com

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 59

056-059 Feature.SHARED.1213.2.indd 59

11/13/13 9:44 AM

PHOTO CREDIT

LIFE IN THE FAST LANE

Members of the Ferrari Owners Group meet on Mount Tamalpais before 60 heading D E C E Mout B E for R 2a0drive.

13 MARIN

060-069 Feature.AUTO.1213.indd 60

11/13/13 9:45 AM

FASTLANE

LIFE IN THE

Some of the world’s flashiest automobiles can be found right here in Marin.

PHOTO CREDIT

BY DANIEL JEWETT • PHOTOS BY TIM PORTER

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 61

060-069 Feature.AUTO.1213.indd 61

11/13/13 9:46 AM

PHOTO CREDIT

You see them whizzing by on the freeway or confidently navigating the twisting roads in West Marin. Often they inspire a second look or even a bit of envy as your vehicle becomes just another rapidly diminishing object in a rearview mirror. The high-performance luxury cars of Marin are beautiful, fast, expensive, full of cutting-edge technology and much more common than you might expect. But maybe you already knew that. Along the drive down Highway 101, a Ferrari dealership is followed by Maserati, Porsche, BMW, Mercedes, Mini, Audi and Jaguar dealerships. There are few places in the world where luxury car options are so plentiful. It doesn’t hurt that Marin County has one of the highest per-capita income levels in the country, along with continuously mild weather and some pretty amazing roads (see almost any car commercial: they almost always feature a sequence in Marin). The following is a road map, organized by country of origin, featuring some of the most impressive wheels you can expect to encounter on the highways and byways of Marin.

62 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

060-069 Feature.AUTO.1213.indd 62

11/13/13 9:47 AM

LIFE IN THE FAST LANE

T

FRENCH PASSION

HE FIRST CAR on our list isn’t available in Marin; you have to go to Los Gatos to pick one up. Just be sure to bring at least $2 million. The line, founded by an Italian, is now made in France and owned by Volkswagen; there are only 10 dealerships in the U.S. But if it’s an exclusive ride you’re looking for, nothing comes close to Bugatti — you don’t have to worry about your neighbor pulling up in one (although one caused quite a sensation at this year’s Marin Sonoma Concours d’Elegance). “The general profile of an owner is someone who is a car enthusiast with a feel for engineering,” says Bugatti’s official driver, Butch Leitzinger. “He is not just looking for a car as jewelry; he understands what he is paying for. This car is the pinnacle of his collection. He understands how special it is.” Indeed, the team behind Bugatti spent years developing a car that would be capable of reaching 254 mph — they had to find a way to handle the forces involved with an unbelievable 1,200-horsepower engine and to stop the car once it got moving. “The engineering challenge was how to put this much power to the ground in a civilized manner,” Leitzinger says. WHAT TO WATCH FOR The series is one-of-a-kind; only 450 will ever be made. About 70 are still available.

STATS CAR Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse PRICE $2.5 million ENGINE 8 liter, four turbochargers, 16-cylinder HORSEPOWER 1,200

060-069 Feature.AUTO.1213.indd 63

11/13/13 9:48 AM

ITALIAN STYLE STATS CAR Ferrari 458 Italia • PRICE $233,509 base ENGINE 4.5 liter, eight-cylinder • HORSEPOWER 570

W

hen you say “high-performance from Italy” one name instantly comes to mind: Ferrari. The company got its start in 1947 when race car driver Enzo Ferrari started manufacturing cars using what he learned on the track. “It all comes from Formula One racing; that was the first purpose,” says Emmanuel Turin, marketing coordinator and sales consultant for Ferrari of San Francisco, which opened in the city in 1993 and moved to its present Mill Valley location in 1994. The cars are still made to order in just one Italian factory, he adds: “There is no match for Ferrari, but there is unmatched pleasure when you drive one.” Joe Keon of Greenbrae agrees — he started the Ferrari Owners Group five years ago and watched it grow from four to 270 members and take up charitable causes. “When I first drove one I couldn’t believe I didn’t roll over and get crushed. I couldn’t believe a car had this capability; it changed me dramatically,” he says. “It felt like I was cheating the forces.” WHAT TO WATCH FOR The Ferrari FF, launched in 2011, is the company’s first production four-passenger, four-wheel-drive car. Also, from Ferrari’s sister company, a reinvention of the Maserati Ghibli — a more affordable compact sport sedan version, priced between $65,000 and $75,000 and available with a 345- or 404-horsepower engine.

64 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

060-069 Feature.AUTO.1213.indd 64

11/13/13 9:49 AM

M

aybe it wasn’t the best thing for Jaguar’s image when, in an episode of AMC’s Mad Men, an exhaust-inhalation suicide attempt was foiled by the fact that the car, a vintage Jaguar E-Type, would not start. “Twenty years ago, the quality wasn’t there,” admits Belvedere resident Tom Price, owner of Jaguar Marin and a collector of classic Jaguars. “There was a negative perception about quality with Jaguar, but now the quality is fabulous.”

What changed? Jaguar was owned by Ford, but in 2008 it and Land Rover were purchased by India’s biggest vehicle maker, Tata Motors. “They are the best company to be involved with the brand,” Price says. “They are giving Jaguar the strength to do it right.” And just out of the gate it appears they have taken the checkered flag, bringing an affordable, fast (with a decidedly gutsy exhaust note), all-aluminum-body F-Type to the market to rave reviews. “Customers are ecstatic,” Price says. “When they finish test drives, they have big smiles on their faces.” The car has also been celebrated in the Jagazette, the newsletter of the world’s oldest Jaguar club, which is Bay Area–based with many Marin members. WHAT TO WATCH FOR A smaller Jaguar sports car, a Jaguar crossover and, from Jaguar’s sister company, an all-aluminum 500-horsepower Land Rover Sport.

BRITISH DETERMINATION

STATS CAR Jaguar F-Type V8 S • PRICE $92,000 base ENGINE 5.0 liter, eight-cylinder • HORSEPOWER 495

060-069 Feature.AUTO.1213.indd 65

11/13/13 9:52 AM

T

GERMAN PRECISION

here are some pretty amazing German cars out there — certainly BMW, Mercedes and Audi (all available in Marin) make exceptional vehicles — but when it comes to a brand that screams performance, fans say nothing comes close to a Porsche. “Quality, durability, exclusivity and style — people are interested in and passionate about the brand,” says Bill Lamphere, general manager of Sonnen Porsche in Marin, open since the 1970s. “For many it’s a dream car, the vehicle they’ve wanted since childhood.” And for many, it’s likely that dream started with the iconic 911, a car celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. “Everyone loves the 911; that’s why that car is still with us,” Lamphere says. WHAT TO WATCH FOR The Macan, a smaller version of the extremely popular Cayenne crossover, and the $845,000 918 Spyder plug-in hybrid.

CAR Porsche 911 Cabriolet Carrera S • PRICE $110,800 base ENGINE 3.8 liter, six-cylinder • HORSEPOWER 400

ANISE GEMMELL (THIS SPREAD)

STATS

66 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

060-069 Feature.AUTO.1213.indd 66

11/13/13 9:52 AM

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 67

060-069 Feature.AUTO.1213.indd 67

11/13/13 9:52 AM

I

t would be wrong to write a story about the cars of Marin and leave out the hot new car that seems to be taking over the streets: the Tesla Model S. With service and an appointment-only sales representative now located in San Rafael (sales are primarily online, although a San Rafael showroom is planned), this high-performance allelectric vehicle seems to be the answer for the Marin car owner who likes luxury and performance but wants to stay green. “I wanted to be able to get completely off ossil fuels, and I’m on solar power, so it’s great,” says Kiki Goshay of Kentfield, who traded in her Prius for the 60-kWh Tesla model. “I’ve never had a high-performance car or a luxury car, and the Prius was really un-sexy. This car raised my eyebrows; it’s really fun to drive.” She says the car is smoothriding, quiet and doesn’t put out fumes; there are now seven on her block alone. “It costs STATS nothing to drive,” she adds.

“And I love not going to gas CAR Tesla Model S, P 85 pumps; I don’t have to stop.”

PRICE $83,570 base WHAT TO WATCH FOR The Tesla X crossover in 2014 and BATTERY 85 kWh a cheaper compact sedan; RANGE 265 miles; also a network of new charg0–60 in 4.2 seconds ing stations.

AMERICAN INGENUITY 060-069 Feature.AUTO.1213.indd 68

11/13/13 9:53 AM

FOR THE REST OF US

O

kay, okay, we understand that these cars are not within everybody’s reach. And we agree, why should those with an extra $2.5 million lying around have all the fun? For drivers who just want to experience the thrill for a day or two, a new company in Sonoma, started by race car driver and parts supplier Richard Martin, offers classic cars for rent. “Nobody to my knowledge is doing this the way we are doing this,” he says of DB Autosportif. “The level and quality of our cars is excellent.” The 12 cars, mostly from the 1960s, include a ’60 Corvette (pictured), a ’64 Jaguar E-Type S.I. and a ’63 Porsche 356B Cabriolet. They rent for between $325 and $1,600; visit dbautosportif.com. If you get behind the wheel, be ready to turn a lot of heads.

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 69

060-069 Feature.AUTO.1213.indd 69

11/13/13 9:53 AM

SquawValley_1213_FNL.indd 1

10/31/13 9:55 AM

Destinations

T H E L AT E ST LO C A L T R AV E L D E A L S A N D G E TAWAYS PLU S J O U R N E YS A RO U N D T H E G LO B E

SKI THE WEST

Upgrades and new terrain make this winter a great time to explore Tahoe and beyond.

JACK AFFLECK

BY DAWN MARGOLIS DENBERG

Hitting the slopes at Vail, Colorado.

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 71

071-073 Dest.GOski.1213.indd 71

11/11/13 3:37 PM

Destinations / GO WHISTLER BLACKCOMB

T

HE FARMERS’ ALMANAC is predicting

a cold, snowy winter. Let’s hope that’s right, because ski resorts around the country are sprucing up infrastructure in hopes of attracting record crowds. Improvements include upgraded chair lifts, additional terrain and new and improved places to stay and play.

Here’s a look at what’s new and notable this side of the Continental Divide.

• Tahoe

For starters, there’s plenty to check out in our own backyard. Sugar Bowl, Tahoe’s oldest resort, recently installed a new lift that will whisk skiers into an area previously only accessible to those willing to hike there. “It essentially adds an additional 150 acres of skiable terrain to our resort,” says John Monson, Sugar Bowl’s director of sales and marketing.

“Construction is also under way on a new fitness and aquatics studio in our base village.”

He expects the dry-land facilities to be up and running by midseason and the indoor/outdoor pool to open by this summer. sugarbowl.com Elsewhere in Tahoe, the Ritz Carlton at Northstar’s newest concept restaurant, Backyard Bar & BBQ, is scheduled to open by the end of the month. The menu will include traditional barbecue favorites cooked in an on-site smoker as well as wood-fired pizzas. All seating at this mid-mountain venue

is alfresco; the term ski-in/ski-out takes on added meaning here. ritzcarlton.com Squaw Valley fans have a new reason to love the resort: Located in Squaw’s base village, the 1,000-square-foot Wanderlust Yoga Studio gives yogis and yogi wannabes the opportunity to strengthen mind, body and spirit while taking in spectacular views of Squaw’s mountain peak through optimally placed picture windows. wanderlustyoga.com The Bunker at Woodward Tahoe is another must-see hot spot for adrenaline junkies.

The 33,000-square-foot facility at the base of Boreal Mountain is an indoor training facility where skiers, snowboarders, skateboarders, inline skaters, gymnasts and BMX bikers can hone their skills by perfecting trick landings in massive soft Vail’s Sebastian Hotel offers foam pits rather than on unformany après-ski pleasures. giving ground. There are also seven trampolines where visitors can practice aerial stunts like flips and twists. Other facilities include a pump track, six dropin ramps, an indoor skate park, spring floor and a tumbling track.

You don’t have to be a serious athlete to enjoy the Bunker, but only go if you’re serious about fun. woodwardtahoe.com

• Sun Valley

Not much has changed in laid-back Sun Valley, and fans of American’s oldest ski resort will tell you that’s part of its charm. That said, there’s a huge change in how Bay Area folks can access this top-rated ski town. For the first time, visitors can fly directly from SFO to Friedman Memorial Airport, a mere 14 miles from the resort. “This flight is also the first regional jet to fly into our local airport,” says Jack Sibbach, the resort’s director of marketing and public relations. “Previously, you had to fly into Boise, drive 120 miles, or come in by prop plane.” visitsunvalley.com

• Vail

Because Vail is so vast, skiers and boarders rarely find the trails congested. Lift lines, however, can get lengthy, especially at the chair that services the resort’s famed Back Bowls and Blue Sky Basin. Now, a new six-person lift is expected to increase rider capacity by 33 percent, dramatically reducing wait lines for the resort’s legendary Back Bowls as well as Blue Sky Basin. Off he mountain, there’s a new place to rest your tired feet with food and libations: Leonora, Vail’s latest foodie hot spot, is an upscale bistro tucked inside the ultrachic Sebastian Hotel. Because the property is both a hotel

72 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

071-073 Dest.GOski.1213.indd 72

11/11/13 3:37 PM

and a private residence club, the restaurant and adjacent Frost Bar, which serves 80 different types of scotch and 52 types of tequila, exudes a vibe that’s more alpine supper club than chichi tourist trap. Signature dishes include a slow-roasted leg of lamb and a lobster potpie. Save room for the melting chocolate sphere, a decadent dessert that might also be considered edible art. vail.com, thesebastianvail.com

• Aspen

Farther west down Interstate 70, renovations are now complete at the Hotel Jerome, Aspen’s oldest inn and one of the town’s most cherished historical landmarks. Although the lobby bar never ceased drawing crowds — it’s a see-and-be-seen spot for Hollywood celebrities, rock legends and other movers and shakers — the rooms were looking a bit tired. So last year the owners shuttered its doors for four-and-a-half months and completely overhauled the building. The result: new lighting, new fixtures, new furniture and even a new dining option called Prospect. The American menu includes hearty fare honoring the town’s rich mining history; you’ll find imaginative dishes like venison sweet potato chili and confit of rabbit potpie, but don’t expect any possum stew. hoteljerome.aubergeresorts.com

• British Columbia

As at Vail, moving people up the mountain faster is a goal of the powers that be at Whistler Blackcomb; they too have replaced an aging quad chair with a new six-seat lift.

But visitors to Whistler also have a new way to get down the mountain. It’s called the Superfly, a new high-speed tandem zip line that is reported to be the longest in all of Canada. It’s nearly a mile long and, at one point, up to 600 feet above the valley floor.

“You go superfast,” says Kerry Stack, guest services manager for the line’s operating company, the Adventure Group. “Depending on your weight and positioning, your speed can get up to 60 miles per hour.” The tour also includes runs on some slightly less daunting lines, though they’re still not necessarily for the faint of heart. whistler blackcomb.com, superflyziplines.com m

This season our snow is on sale. free fourth night after three paid nights* Book our snow on sale rate and you’ll have an extra night/day to... hit the slopes with 16 ski resorts nearby. relax and refresh at our stillwater spa. enjoy our all-new alpine modern guestrooms, four restaurants, lounges with live music, casino and more. for snow on sale details visit laketahoe.hyatt.com or call 888 510 0529. hyatt. You’re More than Welcome.

111 Country Club Drive, Incline Village, Nevada 89451 *Stay must be booked in advance, requesting offer code SNOW14, and occur by 4/20/14. Must include 3 paid nights to receive 1 additional free night for same stay only. No refunds/credits for unused portion. Limit 1 free night per stay of any length. Offer subject to availability and blackout dates. Not valid with groups, award stays, travel agent rates or stays booked with third parties. Not combinable with other offers. Hyatt reserves the right to alter or withdraw offer at any time. ©2013-14 Hyatt Corporation. All rights reserved.

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 73

071-073 Dest.GOski.1213.indd 73

11/11/13 3:37 PM

Destinations / TRAVEL BUZZ

EMOTIONAL RESCUE For an antidote to all that family togetherness at holiday time, Hotel Palomar in San Francisco presents the “Rescue From Relatives” package. It includes a first-time-ever 50 percent discount off the usual rate, plus a few perennial film favorites (Home for the Holidays, The Family Stone, Four Christmases) to take the edge off. Starting at $104. hotelpalomar. com MIMI TOWLE

New Year Getaways Want to get out of town this New Year’s Eve? Here are a few stylish ways to say salud to 2014. M.T.

• Palm Springs Grab your party hat and high boots and get down to the desert to play in the latest hot spot, Hard Rock Hotel Palm Springs (above). Located downtown, the 216room hotel opened in October 2013.

Rates start at $216. hrhpalmsprings.com

• New York Celebrate new beginnings in the newest luxe hotel in Midtown, The Quin (yep, one n).

The hotel offers 208 guest rooms, including 28 suites, plus proximity to Central Park, Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, the Museum of Modern Art and Fifth Avenue fashion. Starting rate is $495. thequin hotel.com

• San Diego The “Pure Magic” New Year’s Eve Gala at the Hotel del Coronado includes champagne reception, lavish dinner, dancing to the Mar Dels and a toast with bubbly at midnight.

Dinner starts at $300; make it an overnight starting at $225. hoteldel.com

• Santa Barbara As the Bacara Resort & Spa joins the Meritage Resort family, the property is offering a yearend “Great Gatsby Getaway,” which includes overnight accommodations on New Year’s Eve, two tickets to the Miró party ($300 value) and late checkout.

Rooms start at $650. bacararesort.com

• Scottsdale This city’s newest luxury boutique hotel is also a bike shop: Bespoke Inn. The adjoining restaurant Virtù was named a top 20 “Best New Restaurant” in the U.S. by Esquire magazine. Rooms start at $259. bespokeinn.com

WHERE WAS THAT RESTAURANT? Think wish list meets scrapbook: Noted is a handy app for travelers who want to remember great places to eat, stay and play at home and abroad. Users “note” their must-visit options the moment they read or hear about them or after they’ve tried them out. Personal curated lists can then be accessed or shared with friends anytime. The app is free from the Apple app store. M.T. 74 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

074-075 Dest.TBUZZ.1213.indd 74

11/11/13 1:05 PM

Holidays in Sonoma Need a break from holiday shopping and parties?

Head north for some wine country fun in Sonoma, recently named “Best Wine Destination” by TripAdvisor. Start the month with the lighting of city hall on December 6 at 5:30 p.m. and see Santa arrive by fire truck; then, on December 8, be among the first to see the Lighting of the Snowmen at Cornerstone, accompanied by live music and the chance to take photos of St. Nick in the iconic blue chair, decorate gingerbread men and more. On December 14, join the annual holiday celebration at the Sonoma Mission, with readings and song by candlelight and refreshments next to a warm fire in the Barracks courtyard (this event requires a prepurchased ticket). And to brush up on holiday cooking skills, take a class at Ramekins Culinary School, which offers overnight accommodations in case you don’t want to drive all the way home to Marin. M.T.

DAVID WISE

STARS ON THE SLOPES Skipping Sochi?

Not to worry, you can still catch Olympic action slopeside this January 9–12.

Northstar California Resort is hosting the U.S. Grand Prix, which is the second of three qualifiers for the Russia-hosted 2014 Winter Olympics to be held February 7-23.

The series will feature half-pipe and slopestyle (skiing and snowboarding) events and will also be broadcast on NBC Sports. Be there to cheer on Olympic hopefuls Shaun White, Elena Hight, Chas Guldemond, Julia Mancuso, Marco Sullivan and Travis Ganong. northstarcalifornia.com M.T.

Let the Stars Shine Big congrats to the Marinites who made the Michelin grade this year: Michael Mina for Michael Mina, Mourad Lahlou for Aziza and Seigo Takei and Keiko Takahashi for Keiko. Here are the other lauded local spots to add to your holiday restaurant list (to see more, go to michelintravel.com). M.T. THREE STARS The French Laundry (Yountville), Napa The Restaurant at Meadowood (St. Helena), Napa TWO STARS Atelier Crenn (Cow Hollow), S.F. Benu (SoMa), S.F. Coi (North Beach), S.F. Quince (North Beach), S.F. Saison (Mission), S.F. ONE STAR Acquerello (Nob Hill), S.F. Ame (SoMa), S.F. Auberge du Soleil, Napa Aziza (Richmond District), S.F. Bouchon (Yountville), Napa Boulevard (SoMa), S.F. The Farmhouse Inn & Restaurant (Forestville), Sonoma Keiko à Nob Hill (Nob Hill), S.F. La Toque, Napa Solbar (Calistoga), Napa State Bird Provisions (Fillmore), S.F. BIB GOURMANDS Bistro Jeanty (Yountville), Napa Burma Superstar (Richmond District), S.F. Boon Eat + Drink (Guerneville), Sonoma Brick & Bottle, Corte Madera Chalkboard (Healdsburg), Sonoma Cucina Paradiso (Petaluma), Sonoma Insalata’s, San Anselmo Hot Box Grill, Sonoma Le Garage, Sausalito Marinitas, San Anselmo Redd Wood (Yountville), Napa Scopa (Healdsburg), Sonoma Sir and Star, Olema Sushi Ran, Sausalito The Girl and the Fig, Sonoma Willi’s Wine Bar (Santa Rosa), Sonoma Zero Zero (SoMa), S.F.

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 75

074-075 Dest.TBUZZ.1213.indd 75

11/11/13 1:05 PM

THER O Y N A E S UNLIK I A C A IN OAX N O I T A R R CELEB E T N I THE W

s o l e d e ch

o N La

AND STORY

076-081 Dest.JOURNEY.1213.indd 76

S BY T PHOTO

IM POR

TER

11/11/13 1:30 PM

PHOTO CREDIT

Destinations / JOURNEY

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 77

076-081 Dest.JOURNEY.1213.indd 77

11/11/13 1:29 PM

Destinations / JOURNEY

P

Below: An artist spritzes his display of radishes with water to keep it fresh. Right: Two of the radish carvings. Opposite page: A nativity in the zócalo is always a popular attraction.

076-081 Dest.JOURNEY.1213.indd 78

ITY THE POOR radish. Most places, this little

red root veggie gets no respect. It’s an afterthought, a crunchy accent, a sad solitary garnish. Always a culinary bridesmaid.

But not in Oaxaca. Here, in this ancient Zapotec city in the highlands of southern Mexico, the radish has its day — or, rather, its night.

Every December, on the eve of Christmas Eve, thousands of Oaxacans, other Mexicans and foreign visitors descend on the zócalo, the city’s central square, to enjoy the spectacle of one of the world’s most unusual — and shortest lasting — displays of folk art: La Noche de los Rábanos (the Night of the Radishes).

Even though the festival — begun, it is said, by Spanish priests as a means to help farmers make the nonnative diminutive vegetable more attractive to shoppers — celebrates its 116th edition this year, it has all the characteristics of a modern-day pop-up event. Long rows of booths are set up the night before. Artists arrive in the morning to arrange their work, spraying the radishes frequently to keep them fresh. The gates open early in the afternoon to accommodate the crowd, and everyone stays late until the fireworks end the night. By the next morning it’s gone. All of it. The zócalo is empty. The only reminders are scattered radishes lying on the ground, remnants, like empty wine bottles, of a big blowout the night before.

And what a party it was!

Booth after booth of red radishes — many supersized up to two feet in length and six pounds in weight — are carved into elaborate scenes depicting the facets of Oaxaca’s ancient indigenous and modern Mexican cultures: buoyant

BOOTH AFTER BOOTH OF RED RADISHES ARE CARVED INTO ELABORATE SCENES DEPICTING THE FACETS OF OAXACA’S ANCIENT INDIGENOUS AND MODERN MEXICAN CULTURES.

11/11/13 1:30 PM

folkloric dancers, lucha libre masks, the Virgen de la Soledad (the city’s patron saint), angular skeletons and the lively array of life in the zócalo itself.

Add to that dozens of similar scenes woven out in the two other materials allowed in the exhibition — totomoxtle (corn husks) and flor inmortal (dried flowers), and you have nearly 100 artists in all competing for cash prizes (about $1,200 to the top winner), family pride and village bragging rights.

The square is packed with 20,000 festival-goers — local politicos who come to be seen and photographed, a swarm of local news media and more than the usual crush of teenagers, families and oldsters for whom the plaza is a year-around magnet for strolling, flirting and drinking coffee or mescal in a sidewalk cafe. The zócalo is Oaxaca’s original social network.­­

But this night — with the plaza glowing (quite literally) like 100 Christmas trees, and the massive old city hall that fills one whole block bathed in garish floodlights, and the sprawling nativity scene built from wood, papier-mâché and chicken wire surrounded by hundreds of gawking-eyed children, and the large marimba bands and the solitary horn players competing for pesos — the zócalo is elevated from quotidian attraction into a cacophonous carnival of pleasant humanity and civic endeavor, a celebration that, despite the omnipresence of smartphones wielded as cameras, is overwhelming and all-encompassing enough to transport a visitor back to another Mexico, the one where family and food and folklore shaped daily life more than the political nastiness, economic maneuvering and dark narco-violence that dominate headlines today.

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 79

076-081 Dest.JOURNEY.1213.indd 79

11/11/13 1:30 PM

Destinations / JOURNEY

Here, in the zócalo, amid the smiles of the radish carvers, beneath the stars of the cool December sky and awash in the good cheer of the Christmas holiday, is a momentary escape from all that is practical, all that is worrisome. La Noche de los Rábanos is a dream, here tonight, gone tomorrow.

After the Festival

Oaxaca during la navidad, the Christmas season, has more to offer than just radishes.

For the religious and history-minded, the city’s best-known churches — the 24-karat-gold gilted Santo Domingo de Guzmán (where the rich go to marry) and the more pedestrian yet still massive Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption on the zócalo (where the poor go to pray) — are festooned with flowers and icons.

Leading up to Christmas, churches and theaters in town and in the surrounding villages are good places to see a pastorela (shepherd’s play), which tells the Christian story of the season.

Beginning on December 16 and lasting until December 24, parishes and neighborhoods sponsor Las Posadas, an event marked by colorful processions through the streets

that celebrate the search by Joseph and Mary, the parents of Jesus, for housing in Bethlehem.

Christmas Eve is called La Noche Buena in Oaxaca and the rest of Latin America, and it is a special night for religious services, family dinners and presents and, for those with nocturnal body clocks, midnight mass.

Oaxaca is a popular Christmas destination for Mexicans, many of whom make the five-hour drive south from Mexico City, so foreign visitors should plan ahead and book early. The first hotels to fill up are the most expensive and the most economical.

Oaxaca has fully recovered from the political unrest that plagued the city in 2006. The city is bursting with revival. Stylish new restaurants (Biznaga, Garcia Vigil 512; Casa Oaxaca, Constitución #104-A) are everywhere, with modern Oaxacan cuisine trumping the traditional dishes.

Once-dicey neighborhoods bordering the traditional tourist corridor of Alcala are now flourishing with mescal bars (Il Situ, Morelos 511) and nightclubs, art houses and even a New York–style deli (a Reuben in Oaxaca? Si! — Delicatessen Gourmand, Porfirio Diaz #410-A), all geared toward Oaxaca’s emerging, educated and wired generation of young adults.

So, go. Eat, pray and love — especially those radishes. m

80 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

076-081 Dest.JOURNEY.1213.indd 80

11/11/13 1:31 PM

BY THE NEXT MORNING IT’S GONE. ALL OF IT. THE ONLY REMINDERS ARE SCATTERED RADISHES LYING ON THE GROUND, REMNANTS, LIKE EMPTY WINE BOTTLES, OF A BIG BLOWOUT THE NIGHT BEFORE. Opposite page: A depiction of the Guelaguetza, Oaxaca’s annual folk dance festival. Above, clockwise from upper left: A figure of a woman woven from totomoxtle (corn husks); the nighttime crowd in front of the stands; a lucha libre mask; an artist’s hands.

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 81

076-081 Dest.JOURNEY.1213.indd 81

11/11/13 1:33 PM

MSchmidtt_1213_FNL.indd 1

10/30/13 1:42 PM

Out & About C A L E N DA R / O N T H E S CE N E / D I N E

EAT THIS NOW

Phenomena Wind Tunnel

by Paul Jenkins

GALLERIES

Robert Green Fine Arts LISTING ON PAGE 87

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 83

083-090 OutAbout.Calendar.1213.indd 83

11/12/13 8:30 AM

Calendar

T H E AT E R / CO M E DY / M U S I C / G A L L E R I E S / M U S E U M S / E V E N T S / F I L M

E D I T E D B Y C A L I N VA N PA R I S

DEC 11–15 Cirque Dreams Holidaze An international cast of multitalented artists perform a holiday show that features gingerbread gymnasts, toy soldier tightrope walkers and reindeer soaring high above.

Curran Theatre (San Francisco).

888.746.1799, shnsf.com

DANCE

THEATER DEC 7–28 San Francisco Ballet’s Nutcracker Enjoy the enchanting, Christmas Eve story of a girl and her nutcracker, presented in unique San Francisco fashion. War Memorial Opera House (San Francisco). 415.861.5600, sfball t.org THEATER THRU DEC 15 Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol The classic Christmas tale as told through the eyes of Jacob Marley, the ghost of Ebenezer Scrooge’s former business partner. Marin Theatre Company (Mill Valley).

415.388.5208, marintheatre.org

THRU DEC 15 Snoopy 42nd Moon Street presents a holiday treat in the form of Charlie Brown, Lucy, Linus and of course, Snoopy. Watch as the Peanuts gang sing their way through a series of adventures.

The Eureka Theatre (San Francisco).

415.255.8207, 42ndstmoon.org

THRU DEC 15 Harvey Ross Valley Players present the Pulitzer Prize–winning play about Elwood P. Dowd, a mild-mannered man who claims his best friend is an invisible, six-foot-tall white rabbit named Harvey. The Barn Theatre (Ross).

415.456.9555, ross valleyplayers.com

DEC 3–8 Potted Potter All seven Harry Potter books condensed into 70 minutes, aided by multiple costume changes, songs, props and magic. Marines’ Memorial Theatre (San Francisco).

888.746.1799, shnsf.com

ONGOING Israeli Folk Dancing Learn dances that combine Middle Eastern, Eastern European, Latin and African traditions inspired by the ambience of Israeli festivals.

Osher Marin JCC (San Rafael). 415.444.8000, marinjcc.org DEC 14–15 Marin Ballet’s Nutcracker Marin Ballet tops off its 50th anniversary season with a fulllength version of the classic tale. Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael).

415.473.6400, marincenter.org DEC 21 Sophie and the Enchanted Toyshop Join Sophie on her magical journey to the Snow Kingdom as she

dances alongside toy clowns, soldiers, bunnies and dolls from around the world.

Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.473.6400, marincenter.org

COMEDY TUESDAYS Mark Pitta and Friends The comic hosts an evening for up-and-comers and established headliners to work on new material. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley).

415.383.9600, 142throckmorton theatre.com DEC 31 Other Cafe Comedy Showcase Featuring comedy about relationships and modern America from Mark Cordes, Cathy Ladman and Bob Alper. Enjoy cocktails and an after-party with the comedians.

Osher Marin JCC (San Rafael). 415.444.8000, marinjcc.org

MUSIC TUESDAYS Swing Fever The band pays tribute to jazz artists and composers with selections from its roster of more than 1,000 tunes, every

84 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

083-090 OutAbout.Calendar.1213.indd 84

11/12/13 8:31 AM

M S

M A R I N SY M P HONY ALASDA IR NE ALE

| MUS IC DIRECTOR

NEW! Holiday Pops Concert Waltz of the Flowers from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker

White Christmas

by Irving Berlin

You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch & more...

Tuesday, Dec. 17 th at 7:30 p.m.

Tom Johnston plays Glide Festival at War Memorial Opera House, S.F.

first and third Tuesday.

Panama Hotel (San Rafael). 415.457.3993, panamahotel.com DEC 7–8 Holiday Choral Concerts by Candlelight Start your holidays with a favorite tradition and sing-along with the Marin Symphony Chamber Chorus.

The program includes Christmas Cantata, Norwegian Lullaby, Russian sacred music and a selection of Christmas spirituals. Church of St. Raphael (San Rafael).

415.479.8100, marinsymphony.org DEC 8 Children’s Holiday Concert and Party Members of the cast of Beach Blanket Babylon, Chhandam Youth Dance Company, the San Francisco Ballet School Trainee Program and San Francisco Boys Chorus perform with San Francisco Symphony, with all proceeds supporting the Deckthe Hall Day, a free holiday

The Marin Symphony’s Holiday Pops Concert is the start of a new Marin tradition!

Maestro Alasdair Neale conducts the Marin Symphony Orchestra performing holiday classics.

Stephen McKersie, Music Director of the Marin Symphony Chorus and Debra Chambliss, Marin Symphony Children’s Choir Director — prepare the choral elements of this exciting concert. The program presents more than a dozen works including Waltz of the Flowers from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker, White Christmas by Irving Berlin, You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch from How the Grinch Stole Christmas and more classics like Deck the Hall, O Christmas Tree, Jingle Bells and Joy to the World!

concert for underserved San Francisco children.

Davies Symphony Hall (San Francisco).

415.864.6000, sfsymphony.org DEC 8 Left Coast String Bands A concert showcasing the Left Coast Chamber Ensemble’s string players and featuring diverse styles, from a duo for violin and bass by Edgar Meyer to a septet

by Kurt Rohde. 142 Throckmorton (Mill Valley). 415.383.9600, 142throckmorton theatre.com DEC 12 Appleberry Jam’s Guitar Pull: Pedal Steel Edition The Bay Area’s best pedal steel players get together for a unique jam session. The Sleeping Lady (Fairfax). 415.485.1182, sleepinglady fairfax.com

One night only!

Purchase tickets now!

TICKETS: $10 – $70, reserved seating.

CALL: 415.473.6800 or order online at marinsymphony.org This concert takes place at the Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium.

Fun. Seriously.

2 013 –14 S E A S O N

415.479.810 0

/marinsymphony • marinsymphony.org

we appreciate our season sponosors: media

Frank & Lois Noonan, Steve & Christina Fox, Gaspare’s Pizzeria, Left Bank Brasserie, Montecito Plaza, Marin Pacific Co. © Marin Symphony. Dates and details subject to change.

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 85

083-090 OutAbout.Calendar.1213.indd 85

11/12/13 8:31 AM

Out & About / CALENDAR DEC 17–22 A Swell Noel Bay Area cabaret star Craig Jessup performs selections by various composers, as well as classic holiday tunes and original songs. Aurora Theatre Company (Berkeley).

510.834.4042, auroratheatre.org

JOHANN PAUL JEWELERS PRESENTS

272 BON AIR CENTER • johannpauljewelers.com • 415-461-1866 • M-F 10-6 • Sat. 10-5

DEC 18 Michelle Schmitt Bay Area singer/songwriter Michelle Schmitt performs for the fifth annual concert to benefit Meals on Wheels of San Francisco. All of proceeds from ticket and CD sales go to Meals on Wheels to support homebound seniors. SFJazz Center (San Francisco).

866.920.5299, sfjazz.org DEC 22 ’Tis the Season … Celebrating Traditions Singers Marin and seven youth and adult choral ensembles gather to celebrate holiday family traditions. Hear many seasonal favorites including Christmas carols, Hanukkah songs, winter standards and songs of peace.

Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.473.6400, marincenter.org DEC 24 The Brian Setzer Orchestra: Christmas Rocks A 10th anniversary show for all ages featuring Brian Setzer and Australian rockabilly trio Firebird. The Warfield (San Francisco).

415.345.0900, the warfieldtheatre.com DEC 31 Petty Theft Join Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers tribute band Petty Theft for some rock and roll to help ring in the

New Year. Community Center (Mill Valley).

415.389.5072, murphy productions.com

GALLERIES MARIN Art Abloom Studio and Gallery Classes for artists. 751 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo. 415.256.1112, artabloom.com Art Works Downtown A gift-shopping event with art auctions to benefit the San rancisco and Marin Food Banks, December 6–21. 1337 Fourth St, San Rafael.

415.451.8119, artworks downtown.org Bay Model Visitor Center Big Is Beautiful A juried art exhibition of work by 37 Bay Area artists, through December 31. 2100 Bridgeway, Sausalito. 415.332.3870 Bubble Street Featuring genres of fantastic art, imaginary realism, neo-Victorian and steampunk. 565 Bridgeway, Sausalito. 415.339.0506 Falkirk Cultural Center Works by Marin’s Art Collective Group, December 13–March 8.

1408 Mission Ave, San Rafael. 415.485.3328, falkirkcultural center.org Fine Art Etc. Featuring a collection of sculptures and paintings by artists from Northern California and around the world. 686 Bridgeway, Sausalito.

415.332.1107, fineart tc.com

86 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

083-090 OutAbout.Calendar.1213.indd 86

11/12/13 8:31 AM

‘‘Wish I could skip the shopping malls and traffic this season!’’

Cirque Dreams Holidaze at the Curran Theatre, S.F.

Gallery Bergelli Group exhibition, through December. 483 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur.

415.945.9454, bergelli.com Gallery Route One Dignity and Spunk A collection of photographs by Marna Clarke, December 6–January 12. 11101 Hwy One, Point Reyes. 415.663.1347, galleryrouteone.org Marin Society of Artists Winter holidays and gifts show, through December 14. 30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Ross. 415.454.9561, marinsocietyof artists.org Marine Mammal Center The Ghost Below Inspired by one unsuspecting whale’s deadly diet, this exhibition by Judith and Richard Lang explores the harmful effects of marine debri , through December 31.

2000 Bunker Road, Sausalito. 415.289.7325, marinemammal center.org Mine Gallery Ongoing work. 1820 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Fairfax.

415.755.4472, gallerymine.com

O’Hanlon Center for the Arts Luminous Worlds: Art of the Spirit, December 3–26. 616 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.388.4331, ohanloncenter.org

Ever since Terrestra opened in San Francisco, our loyal Marin County customers have been asking us to open a store on this side of the bridge. We were listening. We’ve found the perfect spot and filled it with thousands of fabulous gifts and everything for creative entertaining.

As always, free gift-wrapping.

Shipping to anywhere. And our expert staff at your service.

Wish granted.

Terrestra | San Francisco | Mill Valley

Petri’s Fine Arts Featuring contemporary works in various mediums. 690 Bridgeway, Sausalito. 415.332.2626, petrisfineart .com Robert Allen Fine Art Mindfulness: Images from Within A group exhibition of abstract works on canvas and panel, December 5–January 31. 301 Caledonia St, Sausalito. 415.331.2800, robertallenfineart.co Robert Beck Gallery Early California and contemporary plein air paintings. 222 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo. 415.456.7898, beckgallery.org Robert Green Fine Arts Abstract expressionist paintings by Sam Francis, John Grillo, Paul Jenkins, Jim Bird and more. 154 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.381.8776, rgfineart .com

3 0 M I L L E R AV E N U E

■

415 - 3 8 4 - 8 3 3 0

■

TE RRE STR A .COM

Lucca, Italy. And now Terrestra, Mill Valley.

You’ve admired them in fine leather shops and museum stores throughout Europe.

Now the entire collection of Mywalit handbags and wallets is here at last. Introducing the new Mywalit Store at Terrestra, Mill Valley.

mywalit 3 0 M I L L E R AV E N U E

■

415 - 3 8 4 - 8 3 3 0

■

T E R R E S T R A .CO M

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 87

083-090 OutAbout.Calendar.1213.indd 87

11/12/13 8:32 AM

Out & About / CALENDAR

• DEC 7–8 Antique Market Christmas Show Enjoy a classic old-fashioned shopping experience as you browse through rows of booths with antiques and collectibles. Vintage clothes, china, glass, silver and pottery make this a popular event.

Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.383.2252, goldengateshows.com

Room Art Gallery Works by both Bay Area artists and major masters, housing the largest collection of Picasso, Chagall and others in Marin County. 86 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.380.7940, roomartgallery.com Rustic Bakery Photoply SF A selection of ink-jet images dry-mounted on European plywood,

by Nike van der Molen.

Marin County Mart, Larkspur. 415.461.9900, rusticbakery.com Seager Gray Gallery Boundless An exhibition of works by Kristen Garneau, through December 15.

23 Sunnyside Ave, Mill Valley. 415.384.8288, seagergray.com Studio 333 Ongoing exhibition featuring more than 40 Bay Area artists’ work in diffe ent mediums. 333A Caledonia St, Sausalito.

415.331.8272, studio333.info

Studio 4 Art Work by local artists, classes and workshops with materials included.

1133 Grant Ave, Novato.

415.596.5546, studio4art.net

SAN FRANCISCO

ArtHaus An intimate presentation of diverse works in various styles and mediums by New York and Bay Area artists. 411 Brannan St, 415.977.0223, arthaus-sf.com Caldwell Snyder Paintings and sculptures by local artists. 341 Sutter St, 415.392.2299, caldwellsnyder.com Electric Works Works

by David Schubert.

1360 Mission St, 415.626.5496, sfelectricworks.com George Krevsky Gallery Restless Harmony Works

by Helen Berggruen, through December 21.

77 Geary St, 415.397.9728, georgekrevsky gallery.com Gregory Lind Gallery Contemporary works in various mediums. 49 Geary St, 415.296.9661, gregorylindgallery.com Hackett-Mill Jules Olitski Colorness: The Early Spray Paintings 1965 to 1969 Works by the abstract artist, through December 20. 201 Post St, 415.362.3377, hackettmill.com John Berggruen Gallery Works in various mediums. 228 Grant Ave, 415.781.4629, berggruen.com Rena Bransten Gallery Water Work by Edward Burtynsky, through December 14. 77 Geary St, 415.982.3292, rena branstengallery.com

MUSEUMS MARIN Bolinas Museum Bolinas Museum’s 30 Years of History The museum celebrates its 30th anniversary year with an exhibit that looks back at its development, through December 31 (Bolinas).

415.868.0330, bolinasmuseum.org Marin History Museum An Afternoon in a Victorian Parlor A display of an old-fashioned sitting room in the historic Boyd Gate House (San Rafael).

415.454.8538, marinhistory.org Marin Museum of the American Indian Explore Native American history, languages, art and traditions (Novato).

415.897.4064, marinindian.com Marin Museum of Contemporary Art Movement and Music

Works by Kathleen Lack and Christine Stewart, through January 12 (Novato). 415.506.0137, marinmoca.org

BAY AREA Asian Art Museum Proximities 2: Knowing Me Knowing You Part two of a three-part series examining Asia as seen through family and community, through December 8 (SF). 415.581.3711, asianart.org California Academy of Sciences Nightlife Enjoy music, creatures and cocktails for adults only and explore the exhibits and aquarium displays every Thursday night (SF). 415.379.8000, calacademy.org Conservatory of Flowers Butterflies and Blooms An English garden with monarchs, swallow tails, painted ladies and more, through March 16 (SF).

415.831.2090, conser vatoryofflowers.org Contemporary Jewish Museum Work in Progress: Considering Utopia New works by three artists encourage viewers to consider the concept of utopia both in a Jewish context and from a contemporary perspective, through January 20 (SF).

415.655.7800, thecjm.org de Young The Art of Bulgari: La Dolce Vita & Beyond, 1950-1990 A decade-by-decade look at 150 pieces from the Bulgari archives, through February 17 (SF). 415.750.3600, deyoung.famsf.org

Exploratorium Ongoing interactive exhibits exploring science, art and human perception (SF). 415.397.5673, exploratorium.edu Legion of Honor Matisse from SFMOMA Works from four decades of the artist’s career, through September 7 (SF).

415.750.3600, legionofhonor.org Museum of Craft and Design New West Coast Design 2 Works chosen for the significant contribution they make to the world of design by expanding on the idea of function, materials, techniques or applications of new technology, through January 5 (SF).

415.773.0303, sfmcd.org Oakland Museum of California Peter Stackpole: Bridging the Bay Black-and-white photographs depicting the building of the San Francisco– Oakland Bay Bridge and Golden Gate Bridge in the 1930s, through January 26 (Oakland).

510.318.8400, museumca.org San Francisco Botanical Garden California Native Plant Boom A collection of hundreds of wildflowers native to California and a 100-year-old grove of coast redwoods (SF).

415.661.1316, sf botanicalgarden.org The Walt Disney Family Museum Water to Paper, Paint to Sky Works by Tyrus Wong, through February 3 (SF). 415.345.6800, waltdisney.org Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Dissident Futures An investigation into possible

88 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

083-090 OutAbout.Calendar.1213.indd 88

11/12/13 8:32 AM

alternative futures brought on by active engagement with current political, economic or technological structures, through February 2 (SF).

415.978.2787, ybca.org

EVENTS THRU DEC 22 Great Dickens Christmas Fair Celebrate the holidays Victorian-style in a slice of Charles Dickens’ London, brought to life by more than 750 authentically dressed actors. Explore winding lanes, shops, tearooms, pubs and a grand music hall. Cow Palace (Daly City). dickensfair.com DEC 1 Grinch Day Celebrate everyone’s favorite grumpy green curmudgeon with story

time, fun Grinch activities and treats. Kids can opt to participate in “25 Days of Grinchmas,” where they’re encouraged to “grow their heart three sizes” by doing one good deed each day. Barnes and Noble (Corte Madera). 415.927.9016, barnesandnoble.com DEC 4 Glide Annual Holiday Festival Celebrate the 50th anniversary of cofounders Rev. Cecil Williams and Janice Mirikitani at Glide Memorial with all-stars like Maya Angelou, Valerie Simpson and Tom Johnston. War Memorial Opera House (San Francisco).

415.674.6117, glide.org

DEC 7 Santa Fest Stop by in the morning for Santa Fest, a family party that includes holiday crafts, gingerbread house decorating and photos with Santa. Golden Gate Club (San Francisco).

415.561.5444 DEC 7 Winter Magic Snow Day Decorate cookies, make holiday crafts, enjoy breakfast with Santa and play in real snow. Tamalpais Valley Community Center (Mill Valley).

415.388.6393, tcsd.us DEC 7 Warm Wishes Help Warm Wishes assemble this year’s “StreetPacks,” which are each filled with new gloves, a scarf, hat, rain poncho, socks and a holiday card made by local children. The packs will

Muir Beach Quilter’s Holiday Arts Fair, Muir Beach

be distributed throughout the Bay Area. Unity in Marin (Novato).

415.472.0211, warmwishes.org

DEC 7 Union Street Fantasy of Lights Shops and Victorian houses along Union Street kick off he holidays with thousands of twinkling

white lights. Kids can meet Santa and the Snow Queen, as well as jugglers and live ponies disguised as reindeer, while adults enjoy live

Hudson Street Design of Marin 3773 Redwood Highway San Rafael * 415.924.8300

The North Bay’s Largest Design Showroom The Andersen® Architectural Collection is an innovative approach to windows and doors, based on the style of home you want to create.

Now it’s easier than ever to turn your dream home into a reality.

Creative, Certified Kitchen & Bath Designers Experience the difference a true professional can make in your home!

Open Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm, Saturday 10am-5pm & by appointment

www.HLC-inc.com

Showrooms also available in Healdsburg & Napa M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 89

083-090 OutAbout.Calendar.1213.indd 89

11/12/13 8:32 AM

Out & About / CALENDAR

• DEC 7 The House Jacks The a cappella rock band shows off its vocal prowess in perfect harmony. Osher Marin JCC (San Rafael).

415.444.8000, marinjcc.org

entertainment. Union Street (San Francisco). sresproductions.com DEC 7 Tiburon Holiday Festival Head to downtown Tiburon for a holiday party with food, drink, Bay Bells Bell Choir, gingerbread house decorating, The Merrie Olde Christmas Carolers, a tree lighting ceremony and a visit from Santa. Downtown (Tiburon). tiburon chamber.org DEC 7–8 ICB Artists’ Winter Open Studios More than 80 visual artists open their studios to the public in the 45th installment of this annual event.

Get a chance to meet the artists in the place where they work — a historic, World War II–era industrial building. Industrial Center Building (Sausalito).

415.331.2222, icbartists.com

DEC 7–8 Muir Beach Quilter’s Holiday Arts Fair Head to Muir Beach to browse through artwork, crafts, ceramics, textiles, jewelry and more from more than 30 local artists.

Community Center (Muir Beach). muirbeach.com DEC 8 Santa at Nick’s Cove Watch as Santa arrives at Nick’s Cove by boat, then join him for hot cider, treats and photos. Every guest who brings a donation of canned food for the Marin Food Bank will receive 15 percent off any food or beverage purchase at Nick's Cove throughout the day.

Nick’s Cove (Marshall).

415.663.1033, nickscove.com DEC 14 Tour de Noel Holiday House Tour This traditional Marin County holiday event features a shuttle van tour of homes decorated for the holidays. St.

John's Episcopal Church (Ross).

415.456.1102, stjohnross.org DEC 31 New Year’s Eve at Cinnabar A romantic cabaret celebrating the music of Jacques Brel. Enjoy desserts and fine wine before the show, with party favors and champagne at midnight.

Cinnabar (Petaluma).

707.763.8920, cinnabar theater.com DEC 31 New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball Ring in the New Year with the San Francisco Symphony. Enjoy entertainment from The Martini Brothers and the San Francisco Symphony, as well as dancing, sparkling wine and desserts.

Davies Symphony Hall (San Francisco).

415.864.6000, sfsymphony.org

NATURE WALKS & TALKS ONGOING Foodie Adventures Experience the Mission District, North Beach or Chinatown on a culinary walking tour.

Various locations (SF).

888.498.2008, foodie adventures.com ONGOING Mark Twain Walking Tour of Napa and Sonoma Local actor George Webber morphs into Mark Twain as he brings alive the pasts of the historic towns. 707.694.5097, georgewebber.com ONGOING Sausalito Walking Tours Take a one-hour walk through Old Town and learn about its history. Vina del Mar Plaza (Sausalito).

415.331.3791, travels withteri.com

waterfront to Union Square with seven stops and generous tastings at each. Justin Herman Plaza (SF). gourmetwalks.com DEC 1 John Agee The author presents his new book Little Santa and shows us what the jolly fellow was like as a kid, just in time for the holidays. Diesel (Larkspur).

415.785.8177, diesel bookstore.com DEC 3 Amy Tan in Conversation with Roy Eisenhardt Fiction writer Amy Tan discusses her novels, creative life and more with longtime interviewer Roy Eisenhardt.

Nourse Theater (San Francisco).

415.563.2463, cityarts.net

DEC 4 A Conversation with Michael Kransy KQED's award-winning Forum host Michael Krasny discusses the way media conveys information and news today. Outdoor Art Club (Mill Valley). 415.597.6700, commonwealthclub.org DEC 6 Rick Steves' Iran In his lecture, travel writer and public television host Rick Steves takes us on a journey of discovery to better understand this perplexing nation whose government so exasperates America, and to better understand the 70 million people who call Iran home.

Book Passage (Corte Madera). 415.927.0960, bookpassage.com DEC 7 Exploring Baltimore Canyon Take a stroll through Baltimore Canyon and look for wildlife in various habitats, including a redwood forest and chaparral.

Meet at the Crown Road Trailhead. Crown Road (Kentfield).

415.456.7283, wildcarebayarea.org DEC 21 Alice Waters: The Art of Simple Food II Alice Waters, the iconic food luminary, presents 200 new recipes that reflect her passion for the many delicious varieties of vegetables, fruits and herbs that you can cultivate in your own kitchen garden or find at your local farmers’ market. Book Passage (San Francisco).

415.927.0960, bookpassage.com

ONGOING The San Francisco Gourmet Chocolate Tour A threehour walking tour from the San Francisco

90 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

083-090 OutAbout.Calendar.1213.indd 90

11/12/13 8:32 AM

Holiday Gift Guide

ADVE RTI SI N G PROM OTI ON

inspired choices for

amazing gift giving Find the right gift for your special someone. We’ve uncovered the best and latest for everyone in your life from moms and dads, to pets, kids and co-workers. Make this holiday season your best.

Union Street Goldsmith The Client + The Design Team + The Craftsman. It all happens here. This collaboration facilitates the creative atmosphere. The result is evident in our work. 415.776.8048, San Francisco, unionstreetgoldsmith.com Give the Gift of Health! Help someone “jumpstart” 2014 with Fast & Healthy Weight Loss that Lasts.

JumpstartMD Gift Certificates make thoughtful stocking stuffers. New Patient discounts available. 9 Bay Area locations, 1 855 JUMPSTART, jumpstartmd.com

Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe.

One gift certificate fits all! The lucky giftee can use it for a getaway to this four-diamond lakefront resort, a treatment at its Stillwater Spa, awardwinning dining at the shoreline Lone Eagle Grille and more.

Incline Village, 775.832.1234, laketahoe.hyatt.com

Oeno Vaults offer temperature controlled pick ups from wineries in Napa and Sonoma Counties, climate controlled cellaring, online inventory management, and shipping to locations across the country. Find out how you can get 6 months FREE when you sign up for 1 year! 707.595.3612, Santa Rosa, oenovaults.com

091-093 Adv.GiftGuide.1213.indd 91

Rustic Bakery specializes in

www.OenoVaults.com | 888.906.0787 | 707.595.3612

handmade baked goods for the holiday season. We offer beautiful gift baskets filled with organic treats, nostalgic decorated sugar cookies, hand cut glazed spiced gingerbread tiles and delicious desserts for your holiday table.

Larkspur 415.925.1556, Novato 415.878.4952, MCM 415.461.9900, rusticbakery.com

11/12/13 11:41 AM

Holiday Gift Guide

ADV E RT I SI NG PRO M OT I O N

Johann Paul Jewelers. Pascal Lacroix is an award winning designer. He is a Master in the creation of innovative gold and diamond bracelets.

They are truly pieces of art. 415.461.1866, Greenbrae, johannpauljeweler.com

Jewelry by the Bay. Marin’s mecca for designer and fashion jewelry.

Whimsical gifts and adorned handbags for your holiday needs.

Multi-Strand Bracelet $45. Available in multiple colors. Sausalito, 415.332.0660, jewelrybythebay.com

Lang Antiques. One-of-a-kind Antique and Estate Heirloom Jewels are always the right gift. In our store, or online, expert advice is part of the Lang shopping experience.

415.982.2213, San Francisco, langantiques.com

The Village at Squaw Valley for shopping, dining, activities and lodging. Discover awardwinning restaurants, a variety of shops and events that entertain in every season. Book your stay today. 866.447.7207, Squaw Valley, Squaw.com

Tutu School.

Visions of Sugar Plum (Fairies) dancing through your head? Look no further than Tutu School in the Marin Country Mart, and give the gift of twirling to an aspiring little dancer in your life. Andrew Weeks Photography. 415.419.5610, tutuschool.com

091-093 Adv.GiftGuide.1213.indd 92

Although UKO is known for stylish clothing, more people are coming back for unique gift items such as cashmere scarves, bracelets, Christmas ornaments and much more. Leather wallet $68, fingerless gloves $58, card case $18, flower candle $18/pair. Corte Madera, San Francisco, 415.927.1370, ukosf.com

11/12/13 12:37 PM

Kathleen Dughi Jeweler provides custom made, hand fabricated and one of a kind, sophisticated works of art. Above are the KDJ signature stackable bands: colored sapphire, ruby, and diamond in 22kt yellow gold.

415.383.0462, Mill Valley, kathleendughi.com

Holiday Gift Guide

ADVE RTI SI N G PROM OTI ON

Speak To Me. Give the special women in your life the gift of inspiration, knowledge and fun!

Speak To Me - amazing speakers, food and wine and the opportunity to relax and connect. It’s a night out every woman needs and deserves!! speaktomeevents.com

M Clothing offers you many great gift items this season, including Alessandra Gallo’s handmade jewelry collection. This Mill Valley-based designer creates timeless pieces that every girl on your shopping list will love! Find us on Facebook and Instagram. Corte Madera, 415.924.8891, martymclothing.com

San Francisco retailer now in Mill Valley Terrestra. The Miami clutch ($210) from Mywalit of Lucca, Italy is among hundreds of colorful wallets and handbags at the new Mywalit Store at Terrestra. 415.384.8330, Mill Valley, terrestra.com

Stephan-Hill Jewelry Designers.

Give the iconic gift of a Mt. Tam pendant to those who love Mount Tamalpais as much as we do. “Made in Marin” and available in yellow gold with diamonds or Sterling with white sapphires. 415.459.5808, San Rafael, stephanhill.com

091-093 Adv.GiftGuide.1213.indd 93

Give the perfect gift for the golfer in your life! StoneTree members receive great benefits including lower green fees, 20% off food and apparel, and a complimentary round with each new membership! 415.209.6090, Novato, stonetreegolf.com

11/12/13 12:38 PM

Dine A N I N S I D E R ’ S G U I D E T O R E S TA U R A N T S A N D G O O D F O O D I N T H E B AY A R E A

E DITE D BY MIMI TOWLE

Eggplant Pancetta

BENISSIMO Italian “Benissimo” means “really really good” in Italian. Besides the daily 4 to 6:30 p.m. happy hour, when drinks are $3 to $5 and small plates $5 to $7, specials include all-day happy hour on Monday, free corkage on Tuesday, martini night on Wednesday, and live jazz on Thursday. 18 Tamalpais Dr, 415.927.2316, benissimos.com BRICK & BOTTLE California Sourcing local and artisanal ingredients, executive chef Scott Howard brings simple California cuisine to Corte Madera’s Brick & Bottle. The restaurant features a large bar area, an outdoor patio and family-friendly dining. 55 Tamal Vista Blvd, 415.924.3366, brickandbottle.com

• SMALL SHED FLATBREADS California Slow food chef Ged Robertson uses only local, mostly organic ingredients. The restaurant offers a selection of wine (glass or bottle) to pair with local favorites like the Mt. Tamal-pie, a delicious fresh salad served atop a cheesy flatbread. If you’re in the mood to dine at home, there’s also take-andmake options. 17 Madrona St, 415.383.4200, smallshed.com

IL FORNAIO Italian Sausalito’s Larry Mindel hit a home run with this upscale Italian restaurant franchise.

Besides the awardwinning breads, pizzas and pastas, the menu offers a variety of salads and noncarb entrées.

223 Corte Madera Town Ctr, 415.927.4400, ilfornaio.com

MARIN JOE’S Italian Authentic Italian dishes have been served here for over 50 years. Pick from soup, salad, seafood, mesquite-grilled or sautéed meats and more than 10 pasta options guaranteed to satisfy. 1585 Casa Buena Dr, 415.924.2081, marinjoesrestaurant.com THE COUNTER California/American The folks at the Counter have taken the “have it your way” motto to a wholenew level. Mostly known for all-natural Angus beef, turkey, chicken or veggie burgers, the restaurant also offers options like a bowl (all the ingredients without the bun) or salads. 201 Corte Madera Town Center 415.924.7000, thecounterburger.com

FAIRFAX STEAKHOUSE GRILL & BAR American Celebrating its 90 year anniversary, this steakhouse at Deer Park Villa is more than just a restaurant serving signature Angus steaks and prime rib. It is a gathering place with daily happy hour, live entertainment and a large heated deck. 367 Bolinas Rd, 415.456.8084, deer parksteakhousegrill.com

DEBRA TARRANT (ALL PHOTOS)

CORTE MADERA

94 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

094-105 OutAbout.Dine.1213.indd 94

11/12/13 12:03 PM

happy holidays

RusticBakery_1213_FNL.indd 1

10/18/13 11:37 AM

Out & About / DINE for tasty spirits and eye candy. 44 E. Blithedale Ave, 415.381.2500, bungalow44.com

Frittata with Pea Pesto Crostini

• CIBO Cafe Marinites love

to stop here for outdoor coffee. Husband-and-wife team Alfredo and Tera Ancona offer a menu of tarts, croissants, cookies, paninis and soups. Every dish is made from scratch with local and seasonal products. Located in the historic brick building at 1201 Bridgeway. 415.331.2426, cibosausalito.com

GREENBRAE BISTRO VIS À VIS California This Bon Air Shopping Center eatery features the cooking of Soo Young Kim, who previously acted as owner, chef and sommelier at Petaluma’s Sooze Wine Bar. The neighborhood spot boasts outdoor seating for casually fine dining. 282 Bon Air Ctr, 415.925.4370, bistrovisavis.com WIPEOUT BAR & GRILL American The familyfriendly hot spot has surfboards hanging from the ceiling, funin-the-sun music, a full bar and large televisions displaying surfers riding waves. 302 Bon Air Ctr, 415.461.7400, wipeoutbarandgrill.com

KENTFIELD AMBROSIA Italian Taking over the space formerly occupied

by Pacific Café, Mark Leslie is bringing his pizza, pasta and passion for good wines by the glass to Kentfield.

800 College Ave, 415.454.9292

LARKSPUR BELCAMPO MEAT CO. American This eatery serves classic grilled items like the roasted tri-tip sandwich and classic sloppy joe.

Marin Country Mart, 2405 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.448.5810, belcampomeatco.com EL HUARACHE LOCO Mexican Chef Veronica Salazar’s menu has already gained quite a following. Marin Country Mart, 1803 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.925.1403, huaracheloco.com

EMPORIO RULLI Italian The Larkspur location (there are three others) is a favored 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; outdoor seating makes the experience even more special. 455 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.3332, fabrizioristorante.com FARM HOUSE LOCAL California With a seasonal menu that follows what is fresh and local, Chef David Monson creates dishes such as fluff omelets stuffed with local meats, cheeses and vegetables and made with Glaum eggs from the South Bay. 25 Ward Street, 415.891.8577, farmhouselocal.com

FARMSHOP California Originally based in LA, Farmshop Marin has customers clamoring for cocktails and a delicious assortment of California-centric cuisine. Marin Country Mart, 2233 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.755.6700, farm shopla.com MARIN BREWING CO American Grab a cold beer made right on site and pair it with fish n’ chips — fresh cod dipped in Mt. Tam pale ale batter, served with steak fries and homemade tartar sauce.

Marin Country Mart, 1809 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.461.4677, marinbrewing.com RUSTIC BAKERY California Organic mouthwatering pastries, breads and sandwiches and Meyer lemon mascarpone danishes and a

bacon, avocado and heirloom tomato sandwich with mesclun. Two locations: Marin Country Mart, 415.461.9900; 1139 Magnolia Ave, 415.925.1556, rusticbakery.com

MILL VALLEY BOO KOO Asian Menu items include chicken pho, vegan summer rolls, pad thai and five-spice pork satay, all made with organic, locally sourced veggies and proteins. 25 Miller Ave, 415.888.8303, eatbookoo.com BUNGALOW 44 American Much like sister restaurant Buckeye Roadhouse, Bungalow 44 offers a mean dose of homey carbo- and lipid-laden dishes, such as the burger, fried chicken and truffle fries, as wel as a few lighter items.

The bar is a neighborhood favorite, known

EL PASEO HOUSE OF CHOPS American The menu speaks to the restaurant’s elegance, with offerings like roasted bone marrow, hamachi crudo, smoked trout salad and the El Paseo short rib. 17 Throckmorton Ave, 415.388.0741, elpaseomillvalley.com FRANTOIO RISTORANTE ITALIANO Italian Owned by Christine Zecca and chef Duilio Valenti, both from Milano; the kitchen uses local and organic ingredients. For special occasions and private parties, reserve the olive-press room.

The popular weekday happy hour starts at 4:30 p.m. 152 Shoreline Hwy, 415.289.5777, frantoio.com HARMONY Chinese Dishes here are an infusion of many flavors.

The barbecue pork bun is filled with house made roasted meat in a savory sauce, and fresh mussels are accented with red chili and Thai basil. Strawberry Village, 415.381.5300, harmonyrestaurant group.com LA GINESTRA Italian 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, laginestramv.com NOURISH GRILL American Open for brunch, lunch and dinner, Nourish

96 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

094-105 OutAbout.Dine.1213.indd 96

11/12/13 8:45 AM

offers a variety of clas sic seafood, like fish ’n’ chips, as well as American grill fare like the Niman Ranch black ’n’ bleu burger.

475 E Strawberry Dr, 415.381.4400, nourish.harbor-point.com PEARL’S PHAT BURGERS American Dubbed a silver-spoon alternative to a greasy spoon diner by The New York Times, Pearl’s has a loyal following for the big juicy all-natural patties (vegetarian, turkey, beef, buffalo or grilled chicken) served up with tasty sides such as garlic or sweet potato fries, shakes and seasonal smoothies. 8 E. Blithedale Ave, 415.381.6010, pearlsdeluxe.com PIATTI RISTORANTE AND BAR Italian The staff prides itself on capturing the warm and welcoming atmosphere of a traditional Italian trattoria. Try for a table at the window for a truly exceptional view right on the water. Take a peek at the impressive collection of Italian wines to accompany your rustic seasonal Italian meal.

625 Redwood Hwy, 415.380.2525, piatti.com PIZZA ANTICA Italian Although a recent Yelp reviewer praised it for having “by far the best thin-crust pizzas in Marin,” this Strawberry Shopping Center spot also offers antipasti and hearty salads. Wine is served by the glass, half carafe or bottle. 800 Redwood Hwy, 415.383.0600, pizzaantica.com

THE PLANT CAFE California The Plant offers up affordable delicious and healthy food made from local, organic ingredients. Strawberry Village Shopping Center, 415.388.8658, theplantcafe.com PRABH INDIAN KITCHEN Indian Owned and operated by the Singh family, this restaurant is dedicated to serving healthy, organic and sustainable food with gluten-free and vegan options.

24 Sunnyside Ave, 415.384.8241, prabh indiankitchen.com ROBATA GRILL AND SUSHI Japanese Robata translates as “by the fireside”; fittingly, foo here can be cooked on an open fire and served in appetizer-size portions to pass around the table. 591 Redwood Hwy, 415.381.8400, robatagrill.com SHORELINE COFFEE SHOP American Tucked away in a parking lot at Tam Junction, this Mexican coffee shop is (to quote one Yelper) a “funky diner” with a small-town feel.

221 Shoreline Hwy, 415.388.9085 SOL FOOD Puerto Rican This Marin favorite has opened doors in Mill Valley, where they continue to serve up everyone’s favorite Puerto Rican cuisine.

The line can get long, but the food is well worth it. 401 Miller Ave, 415.380.1986, solfoodrestaurant.com THEP LELA Thai This jewel is tucked away in the back of Strawberry Village. Diners come for the tasty kee mao

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 97

094-105 OutAbout.Dine.1213.indd 97

11/12/13 8:45 AM

Out & About / DINE noodles, pad thai, fresh rolls and extensive bar menu. It’s also a great place for lunch. 615 Strawberry Village, 415.383.3444, theplela.com 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. 106 Throckmorton Ave, 415.381.3343, vascomillvalley.com

NOVATO HILLTOP 1892 California Situated on a historic estate in Novato with sweeping views, Hilltop 1892 offers traditional favorites with a California flair. Open lunch through dinner, as well as Sunday brunch. 850 Lamont Ave, 415.893.1892, hilltop1892.com

MarinOptometry

RICKEY’S RESTAURANT & BAR American Besides a full-service restaurant and bar (with banquet/ meeting rooms,) this comfort food classic offers poolside din ing and a garden patio overlooking green lawns. 250 Entrada Drive, 415.883.9477, rickeysrestaurant.com

see the difference

Comprehensive Eye Exams, Tues. - Sat. Extensive Selection of Fine Eyewear Vision Service Plan Provider Exams for children R

Sharon Segal, Optician Channie Duhn, O.D.

COUPON

158 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley

415-388-8262

We would like to thank the community during this Holiday Season for your continuing support.

20% Off One Pair of Glasses

(offer expires January 31, 2014) Don’t Forget Your Flex Dollars!

RUSTIC BAKERY California Organic mouthwatering pastries, breads and sandwiches are on the menu here, including Meyer lemon mascarpone danishes and a bacon, avocado and heirloom tomato sandwich with mesclun. 1407 Grant Avenue, 415.878.4952, rusticbakery.com

SAN ANSELMO COMFORTS CAFE American This cozy spot features local ingredients and serves breakfast, lunch and weekend brunch.

Be sure to try the Philly cheesesteak and Chinese chicken salad, both classics.

335 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.9840, comfortscafe.com L’APPART RESTO French Owners Bruno Denis and Olivier Souvestre, of Le Garage, offer a menu most Francophiles would be proud of, complete with items like smoked herring, bone marrow and cassoulet de legumes.

636 San Anselmo Ave, 415.256.9884, lappartresto.com MH BREAD & BUTTER California This onestop-shop offers everything from coffee and pastries to artisan bread and braised meats. High quality ingredients and a comfortable atmosphere make MH worth checking out.

101 San Anselmo Ave, 415.755.4575, mhbreadandbutter.com

SAN RAFAEL AMICI’S EAST COAST PIZZERIA California The array of pizzas includes gluten-free crust options and the new Siciliano, an enticing mix of mozzarella, slowroasted garlic, sausage, broccoli and crushed red pepper flakes, sans tomato sauce. 1242 Fourth St, 415.455.9777, amicis.com IL DAVIDE Italian A large selection of both Italian and California wines by the glass along with the dolci

98 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

094-105 OutAbout.Dine.1213.indd 98

11/12/13 8:46 AM

menu’s tiramisu have kept locals coming back for years. 901 A St, 415.454.8080, ildavide.net ODALISQUE CAFÉ Mediterranean This casual art cafe was inspired by “La Grande Odalisque,” an oil painting of a slave done in 1814 by Jean-AugusteDominque Ingres. 1335 Fourth St, 415.460.1335, odalisquecafe.com SAN RAFAEL JOE’S Italian Guido and Theresa Farina run this Marin institution, which has been famous for sophisticated yet casual Italian fare since 1947. Great for large parties, the dining room holds 240 931 Fourth St, 415.456.2425, srjoes.com SOL FOOD Puerto Rican With south-ofthe-border treats like yellow rice, beans and plantains and authentic Puerto Rican specialties,

this one-room eatery on Fourth Street just off Highway 101 can be hard to get into, but it’s worth the wait. No alcohol served. 903 Lincoln Ave, 415.451.4765, solfoodrestaurant.com VIN ANTICO American This newly re-opened restaurant offers sea sonal market inspired cuisine like stone oven baked flat breads, hand made pasta, organic salads. 881 4th St, 415.721.0600, vinantico.com

SAUSALITO ANGELINO RESTAURANT Italian Father-and-son chefs Pasquale and Alfredo Ancona offer handmade pastas and seasonal antipasti.

621 Bridgeway, 415.331.5225, angelinorestaurant.com

Chopped Salad at Brick & Bottle in Corte Madera

Mill Valley’s destination jewelry store since 1994.

80 Throckmorton Ave Mill Valley, Ca 94941 41 5 • 3 8 8 • 8 776 www.sofiajewelry.com

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 99

094-105 OutAbout.Dine.1213.indd 99

11/12/13 12:33 PM

Out & About / DINE Cheesecake at Vin Antico in San Rafael

Now Open With 35 years in Marin County we’ve relocated to

Strawberry Village Shopping Center

800 Redwood Hwy Frontage Rd, #614 Mill Valley, CA 94941 (415) 389-9300

Certified Gemologist

American Gem Society

Fine Arts

Helen Petri “Olivia”, 24” x 20”

Petri’s Fine Arts

BARREL HOUSE TAVERN California Stop by Barrel House for local food accompanied by fantastic bay and city views. The setting is the perfect place to enjoy one of the restaurant’s signature, barrel aged cocktails. 660 Bridgeway, 415.729.9593, barrelhousetavern.com FAST FOOD FRANCAIS French This “frenchified American comfort food” spot opened in February after taking over Plate Shop’s old location.

Owned and operated by the owners of Le Garage and L’Appart Resto, F3 serves brunch, lunch and dinner, with specialties such as the le bleu burger and a spinach and oyster mushroom omelette. 39 Caledonia St, 415.887.9047, eatf3.com

FENG NIAN Chinese Busy at lunch and dinner, this spacious hangout has been a popular spot for wonton soup, pot stickers and daily specials for nearly two decades.

For an indulgent treat order the Szechwan crispy calamari or honey-glazed walnut prawn. Free delivery. 2650 Bridgeway, 415.331.5300, fengnian.com KITTI’S PLACE Thai/ California Known for the tasty Chinese chicken salad and spring rolls. Owner Kitti Suthipipiat was the cook at Comforts in San Anselmo for many years. Try weekly specials like the Thai Toast: crispy sliced baguette topped with shrimp and chicken.

3001 Bridgeway, 415.331.0390, kittisplace.com

415.332.2626 • www.petrisfinearts.com • 690 Bridgeway, Sausalito

100 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

094-105 OutAbout.Dine.1213.indd 100

11/12/13 8:46 AM

LA HACIENDA BAR & GRILL Mexican Get your Mexican food fix any time of day: This festive 23-table new location is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Owner Jose Sahagun recently decided to set up in Sausalito after years in the business (he also owns La Hacienda Taqueria in San Rafael).

Check out the $7.99 lunch special, complete with a soft drink. 2633 Bridgeway, 415.332.1677

PIZZERIA ROSSETTI Italian Traditional Italian fare made with locally sourced organic ingredients, including organic San Marzano tomatoes and Giusto flour. With a small offering of appetizers and salads, Pizzeria Rossetti has a large pizza menu with options like the traditional Margherita and the burrata pizza. 45 Caledonia St, 415.887.9526, pizzeriarossetti.com

LE GARAGE French Escape the touristy Sausalito spots and grab brunch right on the water. The atmosphere is animated with light French music (think Amélie). The Kobe Burger, though not as Parisian as the other menu items, is to die for, and the much-adored croque-monsieur is under $10. 85 Liberty Ship Way, 415.332.5625, legaragebistro sausalito.com

POGGIO Italian A classic Italian trattoria with comfortable neighborhood charm and destination-caliber cuisine. Executive chef Ben Balesteri 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

MURRAY CIRCLE American Enjoy the sun on the deck of this Cavallo Point restaurant. Locals say they come back for the fresh seasonal specials like wild sturgeon and Wolfe Ranch quail. 601 Murray Circle, 415.339.4750, cavallopoint.com NAPA VALLEY BURGER COMPANY American Serving local, all-natural and organic meats, produce and wines, this burger joint offers classic burgers (glutenfree buns available), fries, salads, tacos and root beer floats. With outdoor and indoor tables, the space can accommodate up to 100 people. 670 Bridgeway, 415.332.1454, napavalleyburger company.com

SAYLOR’S RESTAURANT AND BAR California/Mexican Marin’s first tequila bar offers over 100 tequila options. Nightly meal specials include chicken potpie, roasted salmon, baby back ribs and traditional meat loaf. Happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m.

M-F. 2009 Bridgeway, 415.332.1512, saylorsrestaurantand bar.com

LESS IS MORE ]-[

DiamondPeak.com

]+[

FAMILY FUN PACK

$118* LIFT TICKETS FOR A FAMILY OF FOUR WITH TWO ADULTS AND TWO KIDS 6 & UNDER. LESS CROWDED = MORE FUN BUY YOUR TICKETS ONLINE NOW! *VALID ANY DAY. $138 ON HOLIDAYS.

DiamondPeak_1213_FNL.indd 1

11/11/13 1:09 PM

SCOMA’S Seafood Whether it’s for the view of San Francisco or the local history, visitors flock to this iconic spot. The fresh seafood and meat dishes are as appetizing as the Italian pastas. 588 Bridgeway, 415.332.9551, scomassausalito.com

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 101

094-105 OutAbout.Dine.1213.indd 101

11/12/13 8:47 AM

Out & About / DINE SEAFOOD PEDDLER Seafood A great place to seek out fresh seafood in a warm and inviting environment. Varieties of East and West Coast fish are flow in daily. 303 Johnson St, 415.332.1492, seafoodpeddler.com

Roll, or be adventurous and have Wayne whip you up something off the menu. Good sake and a comfortable setting round out the reasonably priced meal. 400 Caledonia St, 415.332.1683, sweet gingersausalito.com

SEAHORSE Italian The spacious dining area, stage and dance floor make Seahorse perfect for both small and large celebrations. Enjoy a modern twist on classic Tuscan coastal cuisine while shaking your booty to the nightly live music and entertainment.

305 Harbor Dr, 415.331.2899, sausalitoseahorse.com

TASTE OF ROME Italian This local landmark has evolved from a cafe into a full-service restaurant offering pasta, pizza, sandwiches and salad in an authentic Italian atmosphere. Find the green, white and red awning and you’re there. 1000 Bridgeway, 415.332.7660, taste-of-rome.com

SPINNAKER Seafood Chef Phil Collins excels at preparing seafood, and it shows in the beautiful plate presentations.

Set right on the water, this romantic spot is great for an evening occasion. 100 Spinnaker Dr, 415.332.1500, thespinnaker.com 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 even the pickiest barfly satisfied. Th prices don’t deter the herd of sushi enthusiasts who line up nightly to partake. Reservations are required in the main room. 107 Caledonia St, 415.332.3620, sushiran.com SWEET GINGER Japanese Owners and chefs Edna and Wayne Ching know their way around good sushi.

Try fresh sashimi, the classic dragon roll, 49ers Roll or Rock ’N

THE TRIDENT Seafood Originally a turn-ofthe-century building constructed in 1898 for the San Francisco Yacht Club, this waterfront restaurant reopened in October after a remodel. Executive chef James Montejano, known for supporting local farmers, fisher men and organic food producers, prepares dishes like Hawaiian mahi mahi fish tacos and grilled swordfish. 558 Bridgeway, 415.331.3232, thetridentsausalito.com 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 offers wines by the glass for $5 to $20 and tasting flights of any three wines for $12. 300 Turney St, 415.331.9463, wellingtonswine.com

102 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

094-105 OutAbout.Dine.1213.indd 102

11/12/13 8:47 AM

TIBURON CAPRICE California Book the private party room for large groups or just relax in what one Yelp reviewer called “the perfect romantic dinner spot.” Midweek, take advantage of the restaurant’s wellpriced three-course dinners for less than $25. 2000 Paradise Dr, 415.435.3400, thecaprice.com DON ANTONIO TRATTORIA Italian Located in Tiburon’s historic Ark Row, this trattoria offers authen tic Italian cuisine in a quaint setting. 114 Main St, 415.435.0400, donantoniotrattoria.com

GUAYMAS Mexican Situated right next to the Tiburon ferry terminal on the waterfront.

The touch-it-you’reso-close city views and outdoor seating make it a great place to bring visitors. 5 Main St, 415.435.6300, guaymasrestaurant.com MILANO Italian Located in the Cove Shopping Center, this familyowned neighborhood spot is known for its pasta and friendly service. A good place to take the kids — or catering option for your next birthday party. 1 Blackfield Dr, 415.388.9100, tiburonmilano.com

Bungalow Braised Short Ribs at Bungalow 44 in Mill Valley

Urban reMedy

Celebrate the holidays the healthy way “the best organic Juices & Foods in Marin!” - Katherine P. Guilt free holiday goodies! Come try our NO-Egg Nog, gluten free raw pumpkin pie and other seasonal specials at Urban Remedy where you know everything is fresh, organic and delicious!

loCal

15 E. Blithedale Ave. Mill Valley • 1904 4th Street San Rafael, CA 94901

Mon-Fri 8am -7pm, sat-sun 10am -6pm

•

1 (855) UR-JUICE

•

www.urbanremedy.com

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 103

094-105 OutAbout.Dine.1213.indd 103

11/12/13 8:48 AM

Out & About / DINE Pan-roasted Cod at Barrel House in Sausalito

VIPMarin CHOOSE LOCAL FIRST

Marin Magazine’s

VIP Marin — CHOOSE LOCAL FIRST The VIP Marin program is all about being in the know. When you opt in to this program, you’ll receive important communications from Marin Magazine regarding special events and timely editorial content.

Visit marinmagazine.com/VIPmarin to learn more about the participating businesses on these pages. Opt in by texting MARIN to 90947.

TEXT “HERITAGE” TO 90947

TEXT “JUMPSTARTMD” TO 90947

TEXT “YARN” TO 90947

Heritage Landscapes

JumpstartMD

Bluebird Yarn & Fiber Crafts

For more information on becoming a VIP Marin partner please contact Matt Clifford, mclifford@marinmagazine.com or 415.370.9464.

NEW MORNING CAFE American Sit outside 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. 1696 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.4315 SALT & PEPPER American This sunfilled, hardwood-floore one-room restaurant with blue-checkered tablecloths is a local favorite. Popular items on chef Abraham Monterroso’s menu include scallops, rib-eye steak, a beef burger and traditional crab cakes with jalapeño dipping sauce. 38 Main Street, 415.435.3594 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 transfat-free calamari, fresh fish, seasonal salads and pastas. 27 Main St, 415.435.4527, samscafe.com SERVINO RISTORANTE Italian Executive Chef Massimo Covello comes to the kitchen via Frantoio and Piazza D’Angelo; here, he cooks up an array of rustic Italian dishes, including house-made pastas, wood oven pizzas and seasonal specialties.

A member of Marin Organic and one of Marin’s first eateries to become certified as a green business, Servino uses fresh, local and organic ingredients whenever possible.

Check the website for the live music schedule.

9 Main St, 415.435.2676, servino.com

104 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

094-105 OutAbout.Dine.1213.indd 104

11/12/13 8:49 AM

WEST MARIN DRAKES BEACH CAFE American If you’re OK with the long drive, you can’t beat the view and the fresh, local ingredients used to make the burgers, salads and soups at this casual spot (Inverness). Walk on the beach after lunch.

1 Drakes Beach Rd, 415.669.1297, drakescafe.com NICK’S COVE American Large windows open the 130-seat eatery to the picturesque Tomales Bay and Hog Island.

(Marshall). 23240 Hwy 1, 415.663.1033, nickscove.com OSTERIA STELLINA California Whether it’s to cap off a day of hiking or celebrate a romantic anniversary, Osteria Stellina suits any occasion. Don’t leave without indulging in the standout lemon ice cream sandwich (Point Reyes). 11285 Hwy 1, 415.663.9988, osteriastellina.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 RANCHO NICASIO American Known for live music and an extensive menu featuring everything from Dungeness crab burgers to walnut-crusted goat cheese, 1 Old Rancheria (Nicasio) Rd, 415.662.2219, ranchonicasio.com SAND DOLLAR American Originally built from three barges in Tiburon in 1921, the Sand Dollar Restaurant was floated to Stinson that same year. (Stinson).

3458 Shoreline Hwy, 415.868.0434, stinson beachrestaurant.com THE SIR & STAR AT THE OLEMA California The historic inn has reopened as a roadhouse-style restaurant featuring rustic decor and a delicious yet affordable menu. Try the housemade bread and honey butter, the kale Caesar and the stuffed quail, or take the plunge and sample the entire menu — the majority of items are $20 or less. 10000 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, 415.663.1034, sirandstar.com

K AT H L E E N D U G H I J E W E L E R

TIBURON TAVERN California The atmosphere here is truly enchanting, with two outdoor patios, two indoor fireplaces and candlelit tables at dinner. No item is more than $20, including the steak, with entrées falling in the $14 to $18 range. Happy hour is 4 to 6:30 p.m. M–F. 1651 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.5996, tiburontavern.com

HAND-FABRICATED FINE JEWELRY EXQUISITE CUSTOM DESIGNS

11 B e r n a r d S t r e e t Mill Valley

415.383.0462

w w w . k at h l e e n d u g h i . c o M

tel +1 512.236.1032 webberstudio.com

SURFERS GRILL American The view doesn’t get better than this — nor does the surf salad. Built on Stinson Beach, this lunch spot offers up fresh organic salads alongside corn dogs, burgers and fries.

Stinson Beach Park, Hwy 1, 415.868.1777, surfersgrill.com

For more local restaurant listings, visit us online at marinmagazine. com/dine

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 105

094-105 OutAbout.Dine.1213.indd 105

11/12/13 8:49 AM

On the Scene

S N A P S H OT S F R O M S P EC I A L E V E N T S I N M A R I N A N D S A N F R A N C I S CO

E D I T E D B Y DA N I E L J E W E T T

Susan Dunlevy, Gary Friedman and Tatiana Sorokko

John Hamm, Geoff Callan, Mark Harmon and Keith Belling

• RH MUSIC Music lovers took in the latest tunes from up-and-coming artists at the first-ever Restoration Hardware Music event at the Greek Theatre in Berkeley September 20.

Trez Bennett, Erma Murphy and Steve Bajor

• MILL VALLEY FALL ARTS FESTIVAL More than 140 fine artists from across the country had their work showcased in the Old Mill Park redwood grove September 21–22.

Alison Pincus and Jenny Terry

DREW ALTIZER (RH MUSIC); RONNIE SHARPE (SPEAK TO ME); DEBRA TARRANT (FALL ARTS)

• SPEAK TO ME The speaker series for women kicked off its 2013–2014 season October 15 at the Mill Valley Community Center with inspiring tales of Bay Area entrepreneurs featuring Danae Ringelmann, Alison Pincus and Jory Des Jardins.

106 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

106-107 OutAbout.Scene.1213.indd 106

11/11/13 11:35 AM

• WINTERFEST HOST COMMITTEE Guests enjoyed a cocktail reception October 16 on board James Gabbert’s yacht as they planned for the Winterfest gala to be held in Sausalito December 13–15.

Elisabeth Setten and Marc and Christine Rossano

MO DELONG (MIDNIGHT IN PARIS, MARIN SYMPHONY); GARY FERBER PHOTOGRAPHY (WINTERFEST); RICHARD WHEELER (SPIRIT OF MARIN)

• MIDNIGHT IN PARIS Art Works Downtown celebrated it 17th anniversary October 19 with a wild party, six live bands, gourmet food and wine and art at its Fourth Street location. Proceeds benefited the nonprofit art center and its programs.

• SPIRIT OF MARIN Local business leaders were honored for their contributions to the community at the 20th annual awards luncheon held at the St. Vincent’s School for Boys in San Rafael on September 26.

Jon Nakamatsu, Mary Jane Burke and Alasdair Neale

• MARIN SYMPHONY 61ST SEASON OPENER — 007 GALA Marin Symphony kicked off its 61st season October 26 with an elegant James Bond–themed affair that included dinner, dancing, a raffle and a special guest appearance by pianist Jon Nakamatsu.

Russ Colombo, Robert Heller, Jim Wood and Dietrich Stroeh

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 107

106-107 OutAbout.Scene.1213.indd 107

11/11/13 11:36 AM

ADVERTISING PR O MOTIO N

DINE out

EALS DEALS ÕN˜M

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

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

Dine local — save big time!

Happy Holidays. From private parties to catered events, Chef Scott creates seasonal dishes with local ingredients. Enjoy signature dishes like orzo mac n’ cheese with smoked gouda and local favorites like spicy tuna, braised short ribs, and beet salad. Join us for a special Christmas Eve dinner!

The historic Cliff House offers awesome views from every angle and one of nature’s best shows every day. Dine in the casual Bistro Restaurant or the elegant Sutro’s at the Cliff House. Sunday Brunch in the Terrace Room is a Bay Area tradition with free-flowing champagne and a delicious buffet.

Brick & Bottle 55 Tamal Vista Blvd Corte Madera, CA

Cliff House 1090 Point Lobos San Francisco, CA

415.924.3366 brickandbottle.com

415.386.3330 cliffhouse.com

Consistently rated “Best of Marin,” Comforts offers fine city and homestyle food. The holidays are upon us, and we’ve created a special holiday menu, full of classic and traditional dishes, as well as some new favorites.

Contact our catering department for more information. Happy Holidays!

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

Comforts Cafe 335 San Anselmo Ave San Anselmo, CA

Il Fornaio 223 Corte Madera Town Ctr Corte Madera, CA

415.454.9840 comfortscafe.com

415.927.4400 ilfornaio.com

SPEND ONLY $35 FOR A $50 DINING CERTIFICATE FROM PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS

108-109 Adv.DineOut ads DEC.indd 108

11/11/13 11:34 AM

ADVERTISING PR O MOTIO N

Get Nourished! Join us for authentic, locally-sourced, clubhouse inspired food and drinks in our friendly, casual, beautiful Strawberry Point waterfront location between Mill Valley and Tiburon, in the Club at Harbor Point. Book our main room with picturesque views for your special occasion.

415.381.4400 eatatnourish.com

Dining in? Try one of the great recipes in Organic Marin. Produced

by Marin Magazine, this seasonal cookbook celebrates the organic farmers of Marin County and over 40 delicious recipes from local restaurants.

Go to marinmagazine.com/organicmarin

In Japanese, Robata means “by the fireside” and refers to the grill-style cooking of northern Japanese fishermen. Our menu offers traditional as well as contemporary fare. Over 25 premium sakes. Come see why we’ve been Mill Valley’s favorite Japanese restaurant for over 30 years.

Visit the Seafood Peddler for the freshest seafood Marin has to offer shipped in daily from the east coast to west! Enjoy the view indoors or enjoy our beautiful flower lined patio. Book our private Harbor View banquet room for any occasions.

Robata Grill & Sushi 591 Redwood Hwy. Mill Valley, CA

Seafood Peddler 303 Johnson Street Sausalito, CA

Nourish Grill 475 East Strawberry Dr Mill Valley, CA

G RILL on strawberry point

415.381.8400 robatagrill.com

415.332.1492 seafoodpeddler.com

The Counter offers all-natural, humanely-raised beef and 312,120+ combinations to build your own burger. The Counter is a great place for family, friends, great music and a full bar. Voted best burger in Bay Area

by SFGate.com readers on Baylist 2011. ‘LIKE’ us on www.facebook.com/ TheCounterCorteMadera !

Where passion meets the plate….Offering Seasonal Farm to Table Fare in an elegant but comfortable setting. Serving Lunch and Dinner. Our warm, inviting Wine Bar features 30 wines by the glass, sourced from small artisan producers. Join us for New Year’s Eve.

The Counter 201 Town Center Corte Madera, CA

Vin Antico 881 4th Street San Rafael, CA

415.924.7000 thecounterburger.com

415.721.0600 vinantico.com

GO TO MARINMAGAZINE.COM/DINEOUT AND SAVE 30 PERCENT ON MEALS

108-109 Adv.DineOut ads DEC.indd 109

11/12/13 3:19 PM

designmeetsFUNCTION

WHERE

BLACK, WHITE AND CUTE ALL OVER

UKO specially selects clothing for the casual, yet creative lifestyle of Marin women: including Isabel de Pedro, Sunlight, Prairie Underground, Deca and many more Overcoat by Yoko of Mimdo grey, black, cream size S-XL $198

125 Town Center Corte Madera 927.1370

Andre Assous Ash Tory Burch Castaner Dolce Vita Fit Flop Kors

Adie

by Kate Spade

Kate Spade Rebecca Minkoff Sam Edelman Vera Wang Vince Camuto Signature Bettye Muller

shoes & accessories 1102 MAGNOLIA AVE. / LARKSPUR / 415.925.0109 / MON. - SAT. / 10:30 - 5:30

110 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

110-115 Adv.Showcase.1213.indd 110

11/12/13 9:27 AM

Amanda Boe Exhibition with Robert Ogata

Sales and Rentals • Fort Mason Center

November 9 – December 20

2 Marina Blvd., Building A, San Francisco, CA 94123 415-441-4777 www.sfmoma.org/visit/artists_gallery Gallery Hours Tuesday through Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Let’s Decorate!

Sanyok Gallery, a center for innovative, contemporary arts, was launched in 2008.

It became one of the most prominent art galleries in Northern California. Located on Sausalito’s waterfront, it attracts thousands of tourists.

The owners of the gallery exhibit the most talented, authentic, and outstanding paintings. Private tours are available. Our hours of operation are every day, 11-5pm.

819 Bridgeway, Sausalito info@sanyokgallery.com 415 332 8400 sanyokgallery.com 1226 Fourth Street • San Rafael CA • 415-459-5808 • stephanhill.com

© 18k diamond Leaf earrrings with detachable flame-cut golden citrines & 18k diamond Starburst ring with golden beryl.

Amanda Boe, Yellow House, 2010; photo: courtesy of the artist

Michal Tav, Arabesque, 2013, oil on canvas, 32” x 48”

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 111

110-115 Adv.Showcase.1213.indd 111

11/12/13 9:27 AM

.

marin & san francisco

.

.

415.419.5610 marin

tutuschool.com

.

.

415.734.8840 san francisco

franchise opportunities available

Andrew Weeks

.

Have a Holly Holly Holiday.

FREE Bundtlet with the purchase of any cake

(415) 924-2500 47 Tamal Vista Blvd. Suite G Corte Madera

Expires 12/31/13. Limit one coupon per customer. Cannot be combined with any other offer.

Redeemable only at the bakery listed. Must be claimed in-store during normal business hours. No cash value.

112 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

110-115 Adv.Showcase.1213.indd 112

11/12/13 3:22 PM

EARN 7% OR MORE Using your savings or IRA. Secured & insured.

• Real Estate Loans • High Yield Mortgage Fund • Trust Deed Investments Locally owned since 2008 • PacificPrivateMoney.com 1604 Grant Avenue • Novato CA 94945 • 415.883.2150 Real Estate Broker CA DRE Lic 1897444 • CA Finance Lender 6054605

Marin’s finest pre-owned clothing boutique

Now accepting Winter Consignments Open Monday-Saturday 10 am-5 pm Consignments taken from Tuesday thru Saturday 10 am-3 pm

415 456-7309 11 Mary Street, San Rafael Next to Whole Foods & Peet’s Coffee

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 113

110-115 Adv.Showcase.1213.indd 113

11/12/13 1:33 PM

CA LL U S TO SC H E D U L E A P R I VAT E C O N S U LTAT I O N

Give The Gift Of Beauty!

Karron Power, MD, MPH Medical Director

TLC Gift Cards Can Now Be Ordered Over the Phone!

Before

After*

Restylane® • Juvederm® • BOTOX® • IPL • Fraxel® • Laser Hair Removal Ulthera Skin Tightening • Body Contouring Lasers • Microdermabrasion

Beautiful, innovative hair

Locally Owned and Operated in Marin for over 10 Years

loss solutions.

Custom designed.

100% natural human hair.

Before

After*

*

Laser Center of Marin Medical Group, Inc.

770 Tamalpais Drive • 3rd Floor • Corte Madera Town Center

360_Dec_2013_Marin

10/4/13

9:04 AM

Page 1

415.945.9314 • www.marinlaser.com Monday - Saturday 8:30 am - 6:30 pm

www.charle.com

LOVE ASK

COURAGE

Home Office Corporate Crossfit Private Gyms & Studios

EXTRAORDINARY For those with Alzheimer’s, dementia or other special needs, WindChime of Marin offers a fully licensed Memory Care environment with 24-hour care and supervision.

We are dedicated to helping our residents live as independently as possible, with a host of activities designed to encourage interaction and participation through appropriate programming and engagement by our highly trained and dedicated staff.

License # 216800977

415-482-4100

1111 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., Kentfield, CA 94904

www.WindChimeOfMarin.com

114 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

110-115 Adv.Showcase.1213.indd 114

11/12/13 9:28 AM

Marin’s Original Reclaimed Wood Company

I’m proud of my industry.

I belong to an elite group of professional people who keep homes and communities safe, clean and healthy.

Happy Holidays!

24

HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

415-898-2700

Marin

www.blacksfarmwood.com San Rafael Showroom

By Appointment 415.454.8312 Magazine.pdf 1 10/22/13 2:16 PM

facebook.com/marinrotorooter twitter.com/marinrotorooter

For a list of our services & fast, easy scheduling www.rotorooter.com

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 115

110-115 Adv.Showcase.1213.indd 115

11/12/13 9:28 AM

McGuire_1213_FNL.indd 1

11/13/13 11:00 AM

Marin Home FRO M TO U R S A N D M A K EOV E R S TO D ECO R AT IV E D E TA I L S A N D R E A LTO R I N S I G H T S

A heritage oak towers over the steps leading to a patio at Miramar, one of the oldest homes in Sausalito.

BLENDING OLD AND NEW

A move from Ross to Sausalito is the perfect fit for one Marin doctor.

BY LAURA HILGERS • PHOTOS BY TIM PORTER

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 117

117-119 Home.BCKSTRY.1213.indd 117

11/13/13 9:55 AM

Marin Home / BACKSTORY

E

VERYTHING YOU NEED to know

about Linda Gaudiani’s Sausalito home, the Miramar house, can be found in its staircase. The wooden post on the first-floor landing is from the original 1884 home and is carved with a classic Victorian design. The stairs attached to it are minimalistic cherry planks, held in place by modern steel balusters.

“I love the eclectic combination,” says Gaudiani, a Marin County endocrinologist. “The previous owners, David and Christy Williams, were architects and they juxtaposed the old and the new in a way that is just brilliant.”

This combination also reflects Gaudiani’s life, a blend of old and new. Before moving, she had lived in a six-bedroom Ross home, happily raising four children while working. But the kids are in and out — off o college and graduate schools or getting married —and she needed something that worked better with her changing family.

Meanwhile, her friend Sylvie Zolezzi, a realtor, had already seen the house. “I felt like it was so amazing and unique,” says Zolezzi,

“and I thought, oh, I hope I can find someone who will fall in love with it.”

The courtship was slow. Gaudiani could imagine living in this cozier home, which included both a cottage and expansive basement to accommodate adult children or her aging mother. But she didn’t feel ready to leave Ross. It was when another potential buyer for the Sausalito home appeared in late summer 2012 that matters came to a head.

When she moved in six weeks later, Gaudiani brought the past with her. She removed two colorful and edgy Murano glass light fixtures from her Ross home, placing one in the foyer and one in the kitchen. And she filled the modern kitchen, which features a huge curved stainless-steel exhaust hood, pale green refrigerator and French limestone counters, with vintage pieces from her Italian forebears.

Yet the kitchen, which delights Gaudiani, a serious cook, has one small problem: the nearly overwhelming views of heritage oaks and Richardson Bay. “Whenever I have a

dinner party,” she says, “no one wants to move to the dining room.”

On the second floor, the eclectic mix continues. The Victorian roof has been cut out to accommodate a sleek skylight that illuminates all three stories. But open any door, and you find that the hinges and doorknobs are all original.

What Gaudiani loves most about her house is not only these intriguing small details but also the lingering presence of the people who’ve lived here before. “This house has so much history,” she says. “You can just tell it had families in it. It’s had a lot of life.” m

118 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

117-119 Home.BCKSTRY.1213.indd 118

11/13/13 9:55 AM

THE DETAILS WHERE SHE PURCHASED The Banana Belt neighborhood of Sausalito WHAT SHE BOUGHT A four-bedroom renovated Victorian LISTING AGENT Patricia Oxman, Frank Howard Allen SELLING AGENT Sylvie Zolezzi, currently with Decker Bullock/Sotheby’s International Realty STATS Average price per square foot for homes in the neighborhood: $800–$900

Opposite page: The Italian-style gardens; the home’s entryway.

This page, clockwise from top left: Gaudiani’s knickknacks; opaque kitchen cabinets; Linda Gaudiani; an antique dining room table; staircase detail; the kitchen’s banquette.

M A R I N D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 119

117-119 Home.BCKSTRY.1213.indd 119

11/13/13 9:56 AM

a p r. c o m

ap

Nobody can do Everything, but Everyone can do Something Did You Know?

More than 20% of population affected. More than 51,000 residents of Marin County are in need of food assistance. The people whose income is low enough to put them at risk of hunger increased 54% between 2008 and 2011.

Seniors are especially hard hit. One third of Marin's seniors live on a fixed income below the elder self-sufficiency standard of $27,000 per year to cover basic costs of living in Marin. Marin's geography & poor public transportation system leave many residents isolated without easy access to grocery stores.

Nea sett the and stu

That is why now through December 31st, all Alain Pinel Realtors of Marin County will be accepting donations of non-perishable food, as well as new or gently-used coats and other clothing items in support of the Marin Community Food Bank, The Ritter Center, and our neighbors in need this holiday season. Donations can be made at any of our five Marin County offices or at any of our Sunday Open Houses across the county.

For more information about this program, please call 415.755.1111 or email our Marin office manager, Steve Dickason, at sdickason@apr.com.

Oakdale Avenue, Mill Valley

In Contract! Elegant, 5bd/4.5ba compound built in 2000 as a custom estate and sited on a level 9492+/-sf lot. Close to town. Attached, legal in-law quarters. Amazing indoor/ outdoor courtyards.

Mountain View, San Rafael

Baywood Avenue, Ross

Dominican’s own Gatsby Estate-Heather Hill.

Remodeled 1916 Georgian Manor on nearly 2 private acres. 5300+sf, gracious, light-filled rooms, high ceilings, pool, patio, lawns and guest house.

Extraordinary, down-to-studs, 2005 remodel with panoramic views. 4 bedroom, 3 bath contemporary Craftsman. Distinguished Ross School District.

298OakdaleAvenue.com $3,795,000

129MountainView.com $3,650,000

Suzanne Shelhart 415.613.0100

Lindy Emrich 415.717.4005

55Baywood.com $2,595,000 Diana Hammer 415.259.7007 Stephanie Lamarre 415.806.3176

Square footage, acreage, and other information herein, has been received from one or more of a variety of different sources. Such information has not been verified by Alain Pinel Realtors.

If important to buyers, buyers should conduct their own investigation.

CORTE MADERA 415.755.1111 | ROSS 415.755.1111 NOVATO 415.798.8111 | TIBURON 415.889.2000 | MILL VALLEY 415.384.1111

AlainPinel_1213_FNL.indd 2

11/11/13 10:29 AM

5bd Gou livin low per

del ath oss

a p r. c o m

Laverne Avenue, Mill Valley

Mountain View, San Rafael

El Capitan Avenue, Mill Valley

Nearly flawless, 5bd/4ba home in a tranquil setting. Light-filled living spaces built to the highest standards with high-end finishes and custom-built details throughout. Tree studded views and beautifully landscaped.

Stunning new home located in the “Heart of Dominican.� Traditional 6bd/4.5ba, sited on a large, level, 10,943+/-sf lot with ample room for pool and guest house. Three-car garage.

Reduced $300k! 3bd/2.5ba on a .66+/-acre lot.

A magnificent property transformed. Private and secluded with gracious outdoor areas ideal for entertaining. In an A+ location.

364LaverneAve.com $2,995,000

19MountainView.com $2,895,000

1ElCapitan.com $2,095,000

Beth Brody 415.987.2384

Suzanne Shelhart 415.613.0100

Kristine Tiret 415.310.0269

Sage Court, Novato

Red Hill Circle, Tiburon

Inverness Way, Inverness

5bd, 4ba home with panoramic views.

Gourmet kitchen, dramatic formal dining and living rooms, Travertine flooring throughout lower level, Pebble Tech pool. Rear yard perfect for entertaining.

Stunning, 3bd/2.5ba home with exquisite views of SF, Angel Island and Belvedere.

Gated entry, flowing floor plan, spacious kitchen, step-down living room with fireplace, private patio and a 2-car garage.

One-of-a-kind, vintage, 4bd/2ba home. 1896 Cape Cod, beautifully restored with a contemporary feel. Gourmet kitchen, dining room with views, lush gardens, mature trees and level lawn area.

BrittAndBarbaraJohnson.com $1,995,000

104RedHillCircle.com $1,750,000

6InvernessWay.com $1,425,000

Britt Johnson 415.898.6600

Kathleen Delehanty-White 415.755.8300

Rick Trono 415.515.1117

Square footage, acreage, and other information herein, has been received from one or more of a variety of different sources. Such information has not been verified by Alain Pinel Realtors.

If important to buyers, buyers should conduct their own investigation.

CORTE MADERA 415.755.1111 | ROSS 415.755.1111 NOVATO 415.798.8111 | TIBURON 415.889.2000 | MILL VALLEY 415.384.1111

AlainPinel_1213_FNL.indd 3

11/11/13 10:29 AM

Coldwell Banker & Frank Howard Allen COLDWELL BANKER AND FRANK HOWARD ALLEN WHEN GREAT TALENTS COMBINE…

A NEW LEGACY BEGINS.

SAUSALITO 4 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, $4,980,000 Represented by: Anna Roberts CalBRE #00854780

Coldwell Banker and Frank Howard Allen have joined forces to create the North Bay’s premier real estate team.

Together, we represent tradition, integrity and over 200 years of distinguished real estate service in the North Bay and in surrounding communities.

For your home buying and selling needs, contact the North Bay real estate leader today and see why so many people turn to Coldwell Banker yesterday, today and tomorrow. Visit CaliforniaMoves.com to locate a Coldwell Banker agent or office near ou.

CaliforniaMoves.com

CaliforniaMoves.com |

californiahome.me |

/cbcalifornia |

/cb_california |

/cbcalifornia |

/coldwellbanker

©2013 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company.

Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Office is Owned by a Subsidiary of NRT LLC. CalBRE License #01908304.

ColdwellBanker_WHOLE_1213_FNL.indd 1

11/11/13 10:53 AM

INTRODUCING WATERFORD TERRACE, SAN RAFAEL 115 Waterford Terrace $1,525,000 A Modern Masterpiece! Beautiful transformation of architect’s studio/garage into a dramatic home by Rosenbach Construction, offering an open concept design with approximately 2,900 sq ft of luxurious living area, high ceilings, walls of windows, rich finishes and stunning view.

102 Waterford Terrace $925,000 Brand New Construction. Beautiful, new, one-story home, approximately 2,240 sq ft, built by Diego Bros. Construction with an open concept floor plan including large living room, dining area, gourmet kitchen, elegant master and level yard.

103 Waterford Terrace $895,000 Brand New Construction. Stunning, new, one-story home, approximately 2,125 sq ft, built by Diego Bros. Construction offering a spacious great room, 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, chef’s kitchen, elegant master and level yard.

Janice Guehring

Alva Falla

Jennifer Falla Firkins

TEAMWORK • Three Licensed Agents working for you • More than 1500 Closed Transactions • Serving Marin since 1977 Call us to find out why our clients love being part of our team.

Falla Associates 415.518.1930 I afalla@cbnorcal.com I AlvaFalla.com 750 Lindaro Street, Ste 100, San Rafael, CA 94901 CalBREs #01164842, #00628712, #01255172 ©2013 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker®, Previews® and Previews International® are registered trademarks licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned by a Subsidiary of NRT LLC. All rights reserved. This information was supplied by Seller and/or other sources. Broker believes this information to be correct but has not verified this information and assumes no legal responsibility for its accuracy. Buyers should investigate these issues to their own satisfaction. If your property is currently listed for sale, this is not intended as a solicitation. DRE License #01908304.

ColdwellBanker_WHOLE_1213_FNL.indd 2

11/11/13 10:54 AM

COLDWELL BANKER MARIN IS THE DIFFERENCE

There’s no substitute for experience and knowledge. Luckily, when you work with the Coldwell Banker Marin real estate team, you get the best of both worlds. Along with their own track record of experience and success, the professionals at Coldwell Banker Marin are also backed by the strength, experience and resources of the nation’s largest, most trusted and successful real estate company. Contact Coldwell Banker Marin today and see why more people choose us for their real estate needs.

Greenbrae | Mill Valley | noVato | ross Valley | sausalito CaliforniaMoves.com |

californiahome.me |

/cbcalifornia |

/cb_california |

/cbcalifornia |

/coldwellbanker

Front row, left to right: Jerry Piro, Lee Spelman, Marilee Brand, Iraj Zolnasr, Tom Davis Back row, left to right: Jean Mastagni, Jeannine Voix, Jill Hill, Margaret Deedy, Kate Hamilton, Jen Pennington, Melann Mushet ©2013 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker®, Previews® and Previews International® are registered trademarks licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned by a Subsidiary of NRT LLC. BRE License #01908304. *Data based on closed and recorded transaction sides of homes sold for $1 million or more as reported by the U.S. Coldwell Banker® franchise system for the calendar year 2012. $USD.

ColdwellBanker_WHOLE_1213_FNL.indd 3

11/11/13 10:54 AM

West Marin

by B.G. Bates

Bolinas $3,950,000 Stunning coastal retreat; views, privacy, guest quarters, barn, pond, acreage.

Bolinas $3,995,000 Ultimate getaway has main residence, gate house and cottage on 3.5± acres.

Nicasio $1,595,000 Exceptional rural residence on 9± acres with rock walls and sweeping pastoral views.

Nicasio $1,270,000 Private country setting, excellent indooroutdoor flow, separate studio above garage.

Nicasio $795,000 Untouched 60± acres with impressive vistas, water in, rights to hike adjacent 282± acres.

Bolinas $915,000 Whale Watch from Home! Super ocean views day and night. Private; next to Pt Reyes park.

Point Reyes Station $695,000 Enchanting, gently sloping 5.84 acres with infrastructure borders National Seashore.

PENDING Inverness $1,150,000 Luminous, clerestoried design floods interior with natural light on 1.4± acres.

West Marin is my niche market. I know it, inside out.

Coastal, agricultural, rural residential. Love where you live. I do.

BG Bates 415.706.1026 I BG@BGBates.com 750 Lindaro Street, Ste 100, San Rafael, CA 94901 BGBates.com I CalBRE #00968254 ©2013 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker®, Previews® and Previews International® are registered trademarks licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned by a Subsidiary of NRT LLC. All rights reserved. This information was supplied by Seller and/or other sources. Broker believes this information to be correct but has not verified this information and assumes no legal responsibility for its accuracy. Buyers should investigate these issues to their own satisfaction. If your property is currently listed for sale, this is not intended as a solicitation. DRE License #01908304.

ColdwellBanker_WHOLE_1213_FNL.indd 4

11/11/13 10:54 AM

Your Own Castle in Tiburon

Iconic Marin Estate ~ 12.48 Acres of Incomparable Beauty

This exquisite Tudor style home has everything you are looking for: privacy behind double iron gates with a circular driveway and expansive Mt. Tamalpais and Bay views. Sited on a 1.18 acre lot, with a mature, landscaped garden and fruit trees; and of course, distinctive architecture. This multi-level estate comes with spacious living areas including five bedrooms, five full bathrooms, two half-baths and a three-car garage with a long driveway and a large courtyard parking for 8+ cars. www.4ParkPlace.com offered at

$4,995,000

Kim Le (415) 608-2776

Breathtaking Views from Mill Valley Hilltop Enjoy commanding, panoramic views of the bay and hills -- from San Francisco to Mt. Diablo to Mt. Tam -- from this exceptionally dramatic 4BR/3BA, contemporary craftsman-style home on a private lane. Fabulous for indoor and outdoor entertaining with 3 fireplaces, great room with chef’s kitchen, living & dining rooms all have spectacular views and open to the beautiful Pau Lopehardwooddeckandadjacentgazeboandspa.Themasterbedroomhasitsownfireplace, views, and deck, plus luxury bath, a 3 car garage plus covered parking for 3 cars. There is easy access to downtown Mill Valley, Mt. Tam, San Francisco Bay, and coastal recreation. offered at

Bradley_1213_FNL.indd 1

$2,195,000

CLaudia Hampe (415) 383-3820

This beautiful 7,600± square foot, 23 room Spanish Mediterranean estate offers unique custom amenities and architectural features throughout. Additional features include a Guest house, a Multiuse Studio, small vineyard plus small stable and fenced pastures. The property provides a peaceful country setting, sustainable living environment, and sweeping views of 5 counties. The main residence features grand scale spaces throughout including 5 bedrooms, 2 family rooms, separate den / media room, library, observatory and more. Secluded and private, yet close to 37 & 101. offered at

$3,395,000

denise patterson (415) 599-5337

Magnificent Panoramic Views from Mill Valley With stunning Mt. Tam views and a distinctive panorama, this luxurious one acre remodeled retreat provides an oasis of privacy and exceptional living. Dramatic, vaulted ceilings in the living room and formal dining room boast large windows with decks creating an indoor-outdoor living and entertaining experience overlooking mature landscaping with abundant sun. 4BR/3BA, 3,200 sq. ft. Gourmet chef’s kitchen with stainless steel appliances, designer high-end finishes and walk-in pantry. Relax in your Spa on your own private deck with sublime views. offered at

$1,795,000

pat sKipper (415) 823-3099

11/5/13 11:48 AM

Magnificent Gated Kent Woodlands Estate Why compromise when you can have it all? This remodeled contemporary estate is perfectly located for the discerning buyer looking for a property that offers the convenience and prestige of the Woodlands flats, as well as the privacy and tranquility of a Woodlands view estate. The family friendly floor plan and landscaped garden & lawn areas are ideal for both day to day indoor/outdoor living and entertaining on special occasions.

offered at

$4,250,000

Eric GElman (415) 686-1855

Style, Luxury & Convenience in San Anselmo Breathtaking views of Mt. Tam, the Seminary and San Francisco Bay highlight this spacious four bedroom, three and one-half bath home, minutes from downtown San Anselmo. Special features include gated entry, cathedral ceilings, hardwood floors, office and gym. Entertain in the spacious chef’s kitchen with gas stove, double oven, warming drawer and indoor grill.

Peaceful and private lush grounds with mature fruit trees lead to pool and hot tub with waterfall. Freshly painted. Award winning San Anselmo schools. Attached two car garage. Not to be missed! offered at

Bradley_1213_FNL.indd 2

$1,649,000

Eric GElman (415) 686-1855

One of a Kind Property in San Anselmo This is the rare opportunity to own two homes plus a detached studio on two adjoining parcels just blocks from downtown. You will be delighted by the attention to detail and quality craftsmanship in this Anawalt designed estate. The main house features a master suite with spa-likebath,hardwoodfloors,cathedralceilings,stonefireplace,andaflat,spaciousbackyard in a creek side setting. There is a detached two room studio with cathedral ceilings & adjacent to the studio is another parcel, with a private 1BR/1BA home. The peaceful grounds are truly magical and a delight for entertaining, with beautiful gardens, fountains and Mt. Tam views. offered at

$1,995,000

Eric GElman (415) 686-1855

A San Anselmo Gem Style, luxury and convenience await in this exquisite, custom, architecturally designed home. Features 4 bedrooms, 3 baths with an open floor plan, a great room with cathedral ceilings and custom touches throughout. Entertain in the chef’s kitchen with high end stainless steel appliances and subzero fridge. A master suite with sumptuous master bath. Italian villa style outdoors with gardens and a pagoda for incredible outdoor dining. Located in the desirable flats in the heart of the sought after Morningside neighborhood. Close proximity to award winning San Anselmo schools. offered at

$1,265,000

Eric GElman (415) 686-1855

11/5/13 11:48 AM

SAN RAFAEL

SAN RAFAEL

SEBASTOPOL

This unique & private property offers three separate homes on a sprawling 47.5Âą acre gated parcel. Breathtaking views of the Bay & Mt. Tam. 6 Lot split possible. Please call for an appointment. offered offeredatat$9,950,000 $865,000 Barbara Ivy (415) 328-6413

This custom home was designed to maximize the spectacular views from nearly every room. World-class views of the SF Bay, Richmond Bridge & Mount Tam. Resort-style salt-water pool with spa and deck. offered offered at at $1,695,000

Expansive, park-like lawns, colorful flowers and pathways lead you through the exquisite gardens. 3BR/3BA. Uniquely designed with 1BR/1BA off from main home - great for in-law or au pair. offered at $1,275,000

SAN ANSELMO

SAN RAFAEL

TIBURON

Spectacular craftsman style home is located in the coveted Upper Brookside neighborhood. Built in 2002 with attention to every last detail.5BR/4.5BA.

Single level home in Los Ranchitos with large living & family rooms, two dining areas, 4BR/2BA and an In-law unit. Also features pool, pool house and hobby vineyard.

offered at

Eric Gelman

$1,595,000

(415) 686-1855

Deborah Solvason

offered at

Robert Bradley

$669,000

(415) 519-3555

$1,500,000

(415) 314-1314

(415) 328-0147

Julie Mendonca

This 3BR/2BA home is located in the highly coveted Hawthorne Terrace neighborhood. Views span Golden Gate Bridge and Richardson Bay. Award winning schools. offered at

$1,095,000

Lyndasue Johnson

(415) 515-7010

SAN ANSELMO

GREENBRAE

MENDOCINO COUNTY

Privacy and tranquility are the essence of this spacious 3BR/2BA located in the heart of Sleepy Hollow. Open floor plan with gorgeous high ceilings, living room with fireplace.

Fantastic Bay & Mount Tam views, end unit, wraparound balcony. Minutes to Marin General, Bon Air shopping center, Larkspur Landing and Ferry. Top-rated schools.

3BR/2BA. offered at $499,000 Peter Harris (415) 320-9355

Beautiful, 96+ acre Vineyard Estate with panoramic views across McNab Valley. Single level residence has 4300+ sf, 4BR/3BA and vineyard views from most rooms.

offered at

Zamira Solari

Bradley_1213_FNL.indd 3

$799,000

(415) 509-1479

offered at

Sondra Oczkus

$2,495,000

(415) 806-6064

11/5/13 11:48 AM

VACATION HOMES • HAWAII

MAK E ONCE I N A L IFETIME, YOUR EV E R YDAY.

90%

SOLD Defined by the legendary service of The Ritz - Carlton, graceful appointments and endless views of the Pacific Ocean, The Residences will be a landmark of elegant living, and your gateway to Luxury Row and the best of Waikiki.

R es i d en c e s f Rom $ 9 00,000 T o $ 1 5 m i L L i o n 1. 888.505. 0882 | www.TheResidencesWaikiki.com

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach are not owned, developed or sold by The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. or its affiliates (“Ritz-Carlton”). Pacrep L.L.C. uses The Ritz-Carlton marks under a license from Ritz-Carlton, which has not confirmed the accuracy of any of the statements or representations made herein. Listed by Oceanfront Realty International. In an effort to continuously improve our features, the developer reserves the right to change or modify plans, materials, specifications without notice. Renderings and maps are artist’s conceptions and may differ from the finished product. This is not an offering for sale in any jurisdiction where the project is not registered. Obtain the Property Report required by Federal law and read it before signing anything. No Federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property.

B3 COMMUNICATIONS date: file:

cw: 11/05/13 b3 clients:Ritz waikiki:21335 Ritz waikiki tRump in-Room ad update:pRod:21335 Ritz waikiki maRin mag fp ad pRod.indd

1.866.711.2333 | info@b3com.com | b3com.com |

129 Adv.RE.Showcase.HI.indd 129

©

ad:

ae:

b3 communications inc. RepRoduction and/oR distRibution of this mateRial is pRohibited without pRioR authoRization.

11/11/13 4:03 PM

Kentfield contemPorary D

SOL

Kentfield | contemporary dream home | web: 0086280 | $2,999,000 Price reduced this beautiful mediterranean home built in 2005 feels and looks like a brand new home! this home with Panoramic views of mt.tam and the ross Valley has it all! the property was designed with the beauty of its natural surrounding in mind and state of the art features one would expect for today’s modern family. this approx. 4,600 sq. ft. home features four bedrooms with en-suite baths, three fireplaces, large two car garage with covered carport, two family rooms, home office, and beautifully landscaped grounds with plenty of level yard space. the attention to detail is evident in this lang development custom home. for a more in depth list of this home’s special features please view the property website at KentfieldLuxuryEstates.com

jerry garcia’s former estate

nicasio | jerry garcia’s former estate | web: 0085232 | $3,250,000 Price reduced jerry garcia’s former estate is regarded as one of the true jewels of nicasio, if not all of marin. Perched atop a sunny hillside the estate offers expansive views from mt.tam to the Berkeley skyline.the approx. 7,000 sq. ft., 5 bedroom, 7 bath, mediterranean style home sits on approx. 11 acres and has all of the amenities of an extraordinary villa. Besides the lovely grounds, pool, and hot tub, there is an approx. 1,500 sq. ft. artist’s studio, a 6-car garage, an organic garden, and even a high volume well fitted with a water purification system. approx. 12 min to hWy 101 and 35 to the golden gate Bridge. this property can be purchased with nicasiogreenacres.com which is approx. 115 acres and is independently owned. 55ElMirador.com

anna K. Pennington-Boucher 415.860.1399 anna@WorldclassProperties.com WorldclassProperties.com Bre#11136504 san francisco BroKerage | 117 greenwich street | san francisco, ca 94111 | 415.901.1700 operated by sotheby’s international realty, inc.

SothebysAnna_1213_FNL.indd 1

11/11/13 12:36 PM

WELCOME

They say you are known by the company you keep. We are fortunate to be known for the agents that distinguish us in communities all over the world. Today in our San Francisco office, we are proud to welcome Dana Johnson to our team.

Dana JOhnsOn CalBRE#1707450 o: 415.901.1747 | c: 415.306.3824 Dana.Johnson@sothebyshomes.com SAN FRANCISCO BROKERAGE | 117 Greenwich Street | San Francisco, CA 94111 | 415.901.1700

Operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc.

SothebysDana_1213_FNL.indd 1

11/11/13 11:01 AM

PacUnion_1213_FNL.indd 132

11/11/13 3:52 PM

PacUnion_1213_FNL.indd 133

11/11/13 3:52 PM

Rissa Bullock Luxury Property Specialist

Pacific Union is Proud to Welcome Rissa Bullock

Contact 415.308.2700 rissa.bullock@pacunion.com pacificunion.com BRE#01292647

About Rissa Rissa Bullock is a veteran real estate professional, a long-time Marin County resident, and the mother of an active young son and daughter. Her career began more than two decades ago with her family’s real estate business in Atlanta. Rissa continued her real estate career after moving to Marin County in 1998, and today she has extensive knowledge of southern Marin County real estate, particularly homes in Belvedere and Tiburon.

Rissa was drawn to the region by its stunning beauty, its healthy lifestyles, and its easy access to hiking trails, parks, and an abundance of outdoor activities. She is committed to helping families find the perfect new home and experience all that Marin County has to offer.

Rissa is a skilled negotiator and resourceful real estate professional for both homebuyers and sellers, helping guide them through the intricacies and unique conditions of the Marin County real estate market. She also brings to her clients a passion for interior design and décor, helping sellers showcase their homes in the best possible light.

Now on board with Pacific Union, the leading luxury brokerage in Northern California, Rissa has global access to market your home to high-net-worth individuals around the world through Pacific Union’s affiliation with Christie’s International Real Estate.

Whether buying or selling, take advantage of Rissa Bullock’s expertise, her knowledge of the region, and her total commitment to your real estate needs.

A Member of Real Living

PacUnion_1213_FNL.indd 134

11/11/13 3:52 PM

Old Town Tiburon!

2441 Spanish Trail Road

Rick Keefer Luxury Property Specialist

Contact 415.271.1792 rick@rickkeefer.com rickkeefer.com BRE#01068279

Move right in to this com pletely rem odeled view hom e perched on an exquisite lot overlooking Angel Island and Keil Cove. The traditional floor plan em bodies what discrim inating buyers are searching for.

Upon entering, a grand staircase captures your eye and an elegant glass nautical chandelier welcom es you inside. The form al living room boasts a fireplace, built-in bookshelves and French doors opening to the level lawn and m agical water views. The form al dining room also enjoys bay views. To cater to the chef in you, the spacious kitchen features custom cabinetry, Calacatta Vagli Oro m arble counters and bar counter as well as new stainless steel appliances including a 36� Wolf stove, Subzero refrigerator/ freezer, and KitchenAid ovens and dishwasher. The Great Room offers a fireplace and an eat-in area adjacent to a private patio and additional level lawn with spacious wrap-around bench seating. The lower level includes a separate office off the m ain entrance and a half bath with Akdo Ming green m arble with m osaic inlay. The second floor consists of four generously-sized bedroom s and three full bathroom s.

The m aster bedroom has spectacular water views, a wood burning fireplace, two separate closets and an exquisitely designed contem porary bathroom with porcelain hardwood flooring, travertine shower and vanity counter. Robert Sim kins Construction Inc. and Designer Gay Jones. Located m inutes to town, the ferry and the award-winning Tiburon Schools.

Offered at $2,795,000 2441SpanishTrailRoad.com A Mem ber of Real Living

PacUnion_1213_FNL.indd 135

11/11/13 3:52 PM

Belvedere & Tiburon Listings

5 Barner Lane, Tiburon

77 Belvedere Avenue, Belvedere

Santa Barbara lifestyle with this gate 5200 square foot estate affords serenity and privacy while incorporating the finest materials and craftsmanship. Visually striking interiors are enhanced by a sparkling bay view and spectacular landscaping with heritage oaks, rose and dahlia gardens and pictureesque splash pool. Just two minutes to Marin’s finest private schools.

Co-Listed with Britt Engle, 415.601.0077 Listed at $5,995,000

Listed at $4,690,000

2 Spring Lane, Tiburon

825 Stony Hill Road, Tiburon

Affording serenity and privacy this level three bedroom two bath home boasts a plethora of stunning interior and exterior living and entertaining options to take advantage of the expansive San Francisco and surrounding Bay view.

Listed at $4,595,000

This idyllic location encompasses serenity and privacy while displaying sensational framed panoramas of San Francisco, Golden Gate, Bay, and Mount Tamalpais. At the end of a cul-de-sac yet close to the bike path, this four bedroom, two and two half bath elegant custom contemporary home displays visually striking interior and exterior spaces.

Listed at $2,995,000

A Member of Real Living

PacUnion_1213_FNL.indd 136

Blessed by an abundance of natural beauty, this elegant 3000+ square foot four bedroom, three bath home affords serenity and privacy while displaying the finest materials and craftsmanship. Visually striking interiors are enhanced by the spectacular bay views, which extend from the City of San Francisco through the Golden Gate Bridge and all the way to Mount Tamalpais. In a breathtaking setting the elegant and well-proportioned rooms display high ceilings. Most rooms or hallways have exterior doors that lead to multiple view decks, the pool patio or the living room patio with its 180-degree views.

Nan Allen Broker Associate

Link Allen Broker Associate

Contact 415.828.1500 nallen@pacunion.com nanallen.com BRE#01321467

Contact 415.302.8877 lallen@pacunion.com nanallen.com BRE#01378539

11/11/13 3:53 PM

g ced

ACTIVE

815 Stony Hill Road, Tiburon $5,995,000 www.815stonyhill.com ACTIVE

ACTIVE

11 Makin Grade, Ross $2,795,000 www.11makingrade.com ACTIVE

ew

s

3606 Paradise Drive, Tiburon $2,495,000 www.3606paradise.com ACTIVE

320 Upper Toyon Drive, Kentfield $2,250,000 www.320uppertoyon.com

PacUnion_1213_FNL.indd 137

90 Upper Toyon Drive, Kentfield $2,250,000 www.90uppertoyondrive.com ACTIVE

2312 Spanish Trail Road, Tiburon $1,799,000 www.2312spanishtrail.com

11/11/13 3:53 PM

Scott Woods & Bill Smith Luxury Property Specialists

465 Ridge Road | Contemporary Tiburon Masterpiece

415.419.4510 scott.woods@pacunion.com BRE#01863705

415.902.4456 bill@williamjsmith.com BRE#01229913

Magnificent 4 bedroom, 4 bath contemporary masterpiece with unobstructed views of the Bay from Angel Island and the San Francisco skyline to the Golden Gate Bridge. This impressive gated retreat is ideally nestled in a prime Tiburon location, coveted for privacy, sunny southern exposure, superior views, and large, half-acre lots. Sprawling lawn terraces frame this architectural gem. A beautiful sanctuary beckons as you enter this exquisite custom home. Handsome, hand stacked ledge stone walls meet Brazilian cherry floors and solid mahogany windows and doors. Chef’s dream kitchen is equipped with Wolf range with Abbaka hood, Sub-Zero fridge, Miele double ovens. Glorious master suite has straight on Golden Gate bridge views. Welcome home!

Offered at $6,850,000 465RidgeRoadRetreat.com A Member of Real Living

Thank You!

To all my loyal friends and clients for making 2013 another successful year!

Judy LeMarr 415.793.5030

Luxury Home Marketing SpecialistÂŽ Secretary, Marin Association of Realtors judy.lemarr@sothebysrealty.com marindreamhome.com

Best Wishes

f or a Joyous

Holiday Season

138 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

1213_Decker_FNL.indd 138

11/11/13 3:44 PM

Marin-Dec-

An Ideal Home Is In Perfect Harmony With Its Surroundings.

Stunning Mill Valley Property Seldom does a home become available that truly expresses the essence of Mill Valley. Located at the end of a quiet private road, this spectacular architectural home features custom design elements throughout.

Sensational panoramic view with all day sun. Optimal indoor/outdoor living with large pivot glass doors leading to entertaining deck for gatherings. Beautifully appointed throughout.

www.30edgehill.com

$3,499,000

Mark Millstein 415.601.9240

marinpremierhomes.com mark.millstein@sothebysrealty.com

Marin-Dec-Millstein-full.indd 1213_Decker_FNL.indd 139 2

11/4/13 11:53 6:49 PM 11/11/13 AM

Rooms with a View Wonderful rare home and property in Mill Valley.

In one of the most desirable neighborhoods close to everything. Excellent schools, shopping, the outstanding Community Center of Mill Valley and hiking trails. Also a great commute location.

4 bedrooms 3 baths with world class views. Pool, sun, level yard on over 1/2 acre lot. A dramatic drive and entrance greet you. Plans available for a dramatic renovation of one of the most desirable estates in Mill Valley www.13overhill.com

Class and Elegance Exclusive Northridge property in Mill Valley with San Francisco views from all living areas of the home. Great spot for hiking, top rated schools, the fabulous Mill Valley community center and a great commute location. Private, sunny and serene on a gently sloping 15,620 sq. ft. lot which could possibly house a south facing pool. Four bedrooms 2 1/2 baths plus an additional bedroom on the upper level now used as an office. Attached garage with upper level entry. A truly special home. www.7escalon.com

Single Level Luxury Located in the exclusive Breakers area in Southern Novato. House was new in 2006 and upgraded in almost every detail when built. Large rare lot in this area creates a very private outlook and living situation. 3 bedroom suites are separated by the living areas of the home creating great live work locations. Professional kitchen with Wolf Subzero Asko, butler’s pantry with full size Subzero wine cellar. Tiled floors and custom carpets. Great developed outdoor areas with yards and hardscape.

3 Bedrooms could be 4 with 4th being used as office. Over 3200 sq. ft. home by tax records and the lot is nearly 1/2 acre. Cul de sac with sidewalks. www.3creekviewct.com Close to everything.

David Ogden 415.308.5025

d.ogden@deckerbullocksir.com

Marin-Dec-FP-David0.indd1402 1213_Decker_FNL.indd

4

S

r

w

Thanks to all our friends and clients that have referred buyers and sellers to us over the last nearly 20 years.

Have a great holiday season!

11/5/13 11:53 2:00 PM 11/11/13 AM

Marin-Dec-

ley. ose the lley on. ool, atic or a ble om

with the the eat na ibly 1/2 per with

om

ern d in t in ving the ork ero wine eat pe. as and lks. om

415 Drakes View, Inverness Spectacular 4,500 square foot artist retreat with two 800 square foot studios. Located on 1.6 acres atop Drake’s View ridge bordering the Point Reyes National Sea Shore with panoramic views of Limantour Beach and protected wilderness.

www.415DrakesView.com

Steve Tourdo 415.706.8020

ers

/13 2:00 PM

steve.tourdo@sothebysrealty.com

Marin-Dec-Robert-Drakesvw 1213_Decker_FNL.indd 141v2.indd 2

Call for Details

Robert Craig 415.720.1053

robert.craig@sothebysrealty.com

11/4/13 11:53 7:07 PM 11/11/13 AM

Best Wishes and a Happy New Year

$6,200,000

Tiburon

represent seller

E

$5,388,000

Tiburon

represent seller

$5,300,000

SO

SO

SO

LD

LD

represent seller

LD

Tiburon

A

C

T

IV

E IV T C A

A

C

T

IV

E

To all Our Amazing Clients Thank You for Making Us One of the Leading Teams in Marin With Over $40 Million in Sales for 2013!

O Belvedere

$2,995,000

Tiburon

$2,995,000

Belvedere

$1,695,000

Belvedere

$1,585,000

Belvedere

$3,995,000

Belvedere

$2,695,000

Tiburon

represented buyer

represented buyer

represented seller

LD SO

SO

SO

Tiburon

$3,495,000

represented buyer and seller

LD

represented buyer

LD

represented buyer

LD

Tiburon

$2,695,000

SO

SO

SO

LD

represented buyer

LD

represented buyer

represented seller

$1,495,000

Stacy Achuck and Missy Zech Local Agents with Local Insight Stacy Achuck 415.233.2009

stacy.achuck@sothebysrealty.com

Marin_Dec13_StacyMissy_2pg.indd All Pages 1213_Decker_FNL.indd 142

Missy Zech

415.722.8521

missy.zech@sothebysrealty.com

11/11/13 11:54 AM

M  d s in s

0

0

Old Town Tiburon Jewel

Move right in to this completely remodeled view home sited on an exquisite lot overlooking Angel Island and Keil Cove. The traditional floor plan embodies what discriminating buyers are searching for. The main floor boasts a formal living room and dining room. French doors lead to a level lawn and magical water views. The chef’s kitchen features custom cabinetry, Calcutta marble counters and new stainless steel appliances. The family room offers a fireplace and opens to a large deck and additional level lawn. The lower level also includes a separate office and half bath. The upper level has four generously-sized bedrooms and three full bathrooms. The master has offered at $2,795,000 spectacular water views, a fireplace, private deck, two closets and a designer bathroom.

0

0

Stacy Achuck and Missy Zech Local Agents with Local Insight Stacy Achuck 415.233.2009

stacy.achuck@sothebysrealty.com

1213_Decker_FNL.indd 143

Missy Zech

415.722.8521

missy.zech@sothebysrealty.com

11/4/13 11:54 7:18 PM 11/11/13 AM

T

A Heartfelt Thank You to all my Wonderful Clients and Friends

M d 6 S h w fo p T a d O

for Making 2013 Another Successful Year.

Happy Holidays!

Thomas Henthorne 415.847.5584

t.henthorne@deckerbullocksir.com

My Most Recent Transactions SOLD

SOLD

423 Forbes Avenue, San Rafael Renovated Forbes Gem listed at $1,275,000

103 Calle Del Sol, Bodega Bay Coastal Paradise Retreat listed at $995,000

SOLD Multiple Offers Over List Price

SOLD Represented Buyers

525 Alta Way, Mill Valley Stunning Craftsman

Marin-Dec-ThomasH-full.indd 1213_Decker_FNL.indd 144 1

listed at $1,225,000

91 Oakmont, San Rafael Panoramic Views

listed at $1,400,000

11/4/13 11:54 7:26 PM 11/11/13 AM

Marin-Joan

The Boyle Estate

$3,195,000

Mill Valley’s most iconic estate, the Boyle Home is known as the “Oldest documented house in Mill Valley,” built in 1885. 4300sf, 5BD/3.5BA plus 600sf, 1BD/1BA rental unit sited up on a hill with beautiful Mt. Tam and San Francisco views. Exquisitely updated from the foundation up, the home is rich with history and embodies elegant living from a bygone era with period details throughout. The full length entry porch leads to the formal foyer with grand staircase, formal living and dining rooms featuring period details throughout including wainscot and picture rail moldings.

The designer kitchen opens to a beautiful private brick patio, rose garden and large level yard with mature fruit trees. Meticulous attention to every detail including four bedrooms on one level and whimsical attic playroom One block from Park Elementary School and Boyle Park in your backyard. www.10-12ManorTerrace.com

e

Over $40,000,000 Sold in 2013!

om

/13 7:26 PM

134 Reed Boulevard, Mill Valley PENDING Listed at $1,650,000 Representing Seller

18 Heron, Mill Valley SOLD Offered at $2,690,000 Represented Buyer

90 Monterey, Tiburon SOLD Offered at $2,250,000 Call for More Information

12 Via Paraiso, Tiburon SOLD Listed at $3,200,000 Represented Buyer

12 Indian Rock Court, Tiburon SOLD Listed at $2,250,000 Represented Buyer

153 South Ridgewood, Kentfield SOLD Listed at $2,239,000 Represented Buyer

Additional 2013 Sales

85 Marin View, Mill Valley $1,695,000*

413 Ash St., Mill Valley $995,000**

23 South Knoll, Mill Valley pending $1,495,000*

319 Ricardo Road, Mill Valley $990,000*

5 Felipa Court, Tiburon $1,795,000*

569 Alta Way, Mill Valley pending $1,225,000*

185 Rancho, Tiburon $2,095,000+

1002 Greenhill, Mill Valley $1,295,000*

102 Inez Place, Mill Valley $1,395,000*

183 Buchanan, Sausalito $1,050,000**

170 Almonte, Mill Valley $1,095,000**

140 Cypress, Sausalito $549,000**

44 Lower North Terrace, Tiburon $1,750,000**

39 Corte Morada, Greenbrae $1,195,000*

8 Old Landing, Tiburon $1,795,000*

933 S. Eliseo, Greenbrae $595,000**

9 Vista del Sol, Mill Valley $1,500,000**

113 Greenwood, San Rafael $879,000**

213 Stanford, Mill Valley $1,595,000**

40 Cypress Hollow, Tiburon pending $2,250,000**

Joan L. Kermath, MBA

* Represented Seller ** Represented Buyer + Represented Buyer and Seller

ys! a d oli H py p a H

Marin Luxury Property Professional

415.233.3031 joan@joankermath.com joankermath.com

Marin-Joan-Dec13FP.indd145 1 1213_Decker_FNL.indd

Marin Platinum Group (MPG) Top Agent Network (TAN) Extraordinary Service, Integrity & Results

11/4/13 11:55 7:04 PM 11/11/13 AM

Looking Back

CIRCA 1920s

The Red Y House

Mystery still surrounds one of Mill Valley’s original homes.

BY CALIN VAN PARIS

OU M AY H AVE heard about the abandoned house in Mill Valley at 542 Miller Avenue (top of the hill on the right in the above photo) that caught fire and was torn down this past September. What you may not know is that the house had been around since 1920 and is rumored to have been a hideout for spies during World War II. Before the land in front of the building was developed, the second-story window provided a clear view of the bay and the railroad. Steve Schumaker, 64, lived in the “red house” in 1949 during the first year of his life; various members of his family resided there from

the early 1930s until 1995, when the most recent occupant, Schumaker’s Aunt Meda, passed away. The then-vacant home soon became a hangout for Tamalpais High students, whose school was a stone’s throw away.

This picture, taken in the 1920s, shows the house on its original foundation with two wells and a basement level; it was moved (to the left, on the hill above the other house pictured, which still exists as the Mill Valley Pet Clinic) in 1948 because of earthquake damage. Little is known about the origins of this property, and this image, provided by Schumaker, is the first historical photo in the local public record. m

146 D EC E M B E R 2 0 1 3 M A R I N

146 Lookback.1213.indd 146

11/11/13 12:41 PM

College Planning Isn’t Just for Your Children

From left to right: Judy Stern, Nolan Misitano, Jeff Smith, Marian Jung, Erin Whalen, Melanie Victor-Smith, Karen Burrous, Marc Herrenbruck

College admissions can be a daunting process for your child and the rest of the family, but planning doesn’t have to be. The earlier you plan for this time in your child’s life, the easier it’ll be for you and your family to send your child off to college knowing that you’re fully prepared for this opportunity.

But planning for college means more than just putting aside money for tuition, room and board. We believe college planning should involve your family’s entire financial picture, from short-term budgeting to longer term ambitions. For some, this might be looking at refinancing an existing mortgage for a better fit or deciding where the family will live for the next several years. The most important thing is that you and your children are ready for this next phase in life with thorough planning. And the earlier you develop and put your plans into motion, the better the chances of success.

At Opes Advisors, we’ve built our business around looking at our clients’ overall financial picture to make prudent and informed decisions. If you have any questions about how to finance your child’s college education, call us to discuss ideas and solutions that best fit your family’s situation.

Mortgage Banking - Wealth Management (415) 526-4460

www.opesadvisors.com

Help when you make the most important financial decisions of your life.

Opes Advisors is licensed by the CA Dept. of Real Estate, Real Estate Broker License 01458652 and NMLS 235584. Equal Opportunity Lender. Opes Advisors is a registered investment advisor with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Advisors Shown DRE 01490862 NMLS 296842, DRE 00957141 NMLS 237059, DRE 01009554 NMLS 285939, DRE 00977567 NMLS 299111, DRE 01352808 NMLS 304076. ©2013 Opes Advisors, Inc.

Opes_1213_FNL.indd 1

11/11/13 10:44 AM

oys ter perpe tual date jus t l ady

rolex

31

oyster perpetual and datejust are trademarks.

Rolex_1213_FNL.indd 1

10/29/13 2:49 PM