Sun1817

SERVING MARIN COUNTY

PACIFICSUN.COM

YEAR 56, NO.16

APRIL 25-MAY 1, 2018

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ward-winning graphic artist and longtime Marin resident Michael Schwab first gained acclaim in the Bay Area as a poster designer for productions such as Beach Blanket Babylon in the 1970s. Since then, he has established a reputation as one of the country’s leading logo and poster designers, working for clients like Apple, Golden Gate National Parks, San Francisco Opera and Robert Mondavi.

Known for utilizing negative space, Schwab lives and works by the artistic motto that “less is more.” His large-scale works and promotional posters regularly feature simply rendered silhouetted figures dramatically posed in front of striking colored backgrounds.

Whether he’s depicting Muir Woods or Muhammad Ali, Schwab celebrates the interplay between light and shadow and achieves a timeless minimalist harmony in his graphic art. Check out more of his work at michaelschwab.com.

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—Charlie Swanson

1200 Fifth Ave., Suite 200 San Rafael, CA 94901 Phone: 415.485.6700 Fax: 415.485.6226 E-Mail: letters@pacificsun.com Publisher Rosemary Olson x315 Editor Molly Oleson x316 EDITORIAL Movie Page Editor Matt Stafford Copy Editor Lily O’Brien CONTRIBUTORS Amy Alkon, Gary Brandt, Rob Brezsny, Charles Brousse, Tom Gogola, Tanya Henry, Stett Holbrook, Howard Rachelson, Alex Randolph, Nikki Silverstein, Sierra Sorrentino, Charlie Swanson, David Templeton, Flora Tsapovsky, Richard von Busack ADVERTISING Advertising Account Managers Danielle McCoy x311, Marianne Misz x336 Classified and Legal Advertising legals@pacificsun.com ART AND PRODUCTION Design Director Kara Brown Art Director Tabi Zarrinnaal Production Operations Manager Sean George Graphic Designers Jimmy Arceneaux Alfred Collazo Phaedra Strecher CEO/Executive Editor Dan Pulcrano

1.888.651.2003 | cavallopoint.com 601 MURRAY CIRCLE | FORT BAKER | SAUSALITO, CA 94965

PACIFIC SUN (USPS 454-630) Published weekly, on Wednesdays, by Metrosa Inc. Distributed free at more than 500 locations throughout Marin County. Adjudicated a newspaper of General Circulation. First class mailed delivery in Marin available by subscriptions (per year): Marin County $75; out-of-county $90, via credit card, cash or check. No person may, without the permission of the Pacific Sun, take more than one copy of each Pacific Sun weekly issue. Entire contents of this publication Copyright ©Metrosa, Inc., ISSN; 0048-2641. All rights reserved. Unsolicited manuscripts must be submitted with a stamped self-addressed envelope.

Issue Design by Kara Brown Cover Art by Michael Schwab

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Letters

8

Trivia/Hero & Zero

10

Upfront

15

Best of Marin 2018

17

Arts & Culture

23

Beauty, Health & Wellness

31

Everyday

45

Family

53

Fitness & Recreation

57

Food & Drink

71

Home Improvement

75

Romance

77

Theater

78

Sundial

81

Classifieds

83

Advice/Astrology

5

Marin is one of the healthiest counties in California, with access to the transformative combination of medical expertise and the power of nature.

Marin General Hospital delivers exceptional care and state-of-the-art technology, along with integrative therapies to treat the whole person.

We’ve won many awards for our quality of care, but perhaps the best reward is praise from our patients and their families. That’s why we’re thrilled to have been named “Best Local Hospital” by Pacific Sun readers. We are exceptionally proud to serve you well as Marin’s Healing Place.

Learn more about our services and programs or find a doctor today!

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THANK YOU FOR VOTING FOR US!

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We are HONORED to take care of Marin. Literally.

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Letters

This week, a letter-writer requests that adults be discrete about marijuana use.

Saving Face

Facebook’s founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg has apologized and taken full responsibility for a variety of personal data breaches of more than 87 million users. However, the company has a long history of not conforming to self-regulatory policies and agreements, and of not monitoring monetized third-party usage without user consent. Closely investigating and auditing advertisers and app usage, fully disclosing how information is used and clearly offering legally-binding opt-in/optout regulations to users may not be sufficient to insure consumer protection and regain legitimacy, credibility and public trust.

In spite of the CEO’s face-saving past regrets and apologies, full-page ads, self-corrective rhetoric and testimonial statements at recent Congressional hearings, many users whose personal data was unprotected, trust was betrayed and privacy was violated have chosen to de-activate their membership. Has this worldwide social media organization/ platform created serious unintended negative consequences by becoming too large and: 1) intentionally and commercially too influential in what is acceptable in social networking; and

2) inadvertently and inappropriately too involved in what is allowable in governmental politicking?

—Raymond Bart Vespe

Uncomfortable

Personally, I don’t particularly care for the building [‘Community Crisis,’ March 28]. After all, it was built as a train station and while I do love trains, the station is nothing to write home about. I’ve always found it cramped, noisy and awkward to use. The seating is totally cramped and not much more comfortable than the bleacher seats in AT&T Park. At a minimum, the building should be enlarged and the outdoor seating as well.

—Guy, via pacificsun.com

Shhhhh

I am surprised at the glamorizing of marijuana use by adults [‘Migh-tea Moment,’ April 18]. It is extremely harmful to young people and I am not judging adult use, but let’s be discrete. Youth do not perceive that it is harmful at all and it is—this type of modeling and exposure perpetuates this type of mindset.

—Linda Henn, via pacificsun.com

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Trivia Café MARINSYMPHONY17|18 ALASDAIR NEALE | MUSIC DIRECTOR

By Howard Rachelson

1 What three California cities have three-word names, the first word being ‘San’?

6 (1)

2 A tequini is a martini mixed with what, instead of gin?

3 SWISS (Swiss International Air Lines) is owned by what neighboring European airline company?

4 What two consecutive month names, in Spanish, differ by one letter?

MASTERWORKS 4

6 (2)

5 Beginning in 2020, three-on-three basketball will

be an Olympic sport, but scoring will be changed: Shots made from outside the three-point line will be worth how many points, and those inside will be worth how many?

6 Can you name every woman who was the wife of one U.S. president, and the mother of another?

7a. The world’s first electrified underground railway system opened in 1863, in what European city? b. America’s two first systems opened around 1897, in what two cities?

8 In what sporty way did Johnny Carson always finish The Tonight Show mono-

logue?

9 What is the modern name of the Russian city formerly known as Petrograd, and later Leningrad?

10 Identify these words ending with ‘pass.’ For example: Avoid, go around (bypass) FEATURING SUPERSTAR CELLIST, 2017 GRAMMY-AWARD WINNER ZUILL BAILEY SUNDAY APRIL 29, 2018 / 3:00 P.M.

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BONUS QUESTION: Starting in the early 1500s in Scotland, players brought along rocks of different sizes and shapes, to play what game that still exists today?

Howard Rachelson invites you to his next team Trivia Contest on Tuesday, May 9, 6:30pm at Terrapin Crossroads. Bring a team or come join one. Have a great question for this column? Send it to Howard at howard1@triviacafe.com, and if we use it we’ll give you credit!

Answers on page

»81

▲ A Red-shouldered hawk in Novato became entangled in monofilament line and was suspended in midair by one wing. A concerned citizen alerted Marin Humane to the bird’s plight and officer Lisa Nausin rushed to the scene. The fishing line, or perhaps it was kite string, extended between two trees high above the ground and Nausin couldn’t reach the suffering animal. She called the Novato Fire District and a crew arrived to assist.

One of Novato’s newest firefighters, James Koppert, climbed a ladder and faced the bird of prey’s powerful talons and beak.

Koppert skillfully avoided both dangers and delivered the injured hawk to Nausin, who transported him to WildCare in San Rafael, where they found that he was unable to fly due to damaged feathers. Because it’s

Courtesy of WildCare

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a. Direction finder b. Intrude improperly c. Highway elevator

Hero

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mating and nesting season, he likely had a mate and possibly babies awaiting his return, which made it imperative that WildCare nurse him back to health quickly. Within two days, they had him flying and able to hunt again. Thanks to a trio of agencies, this majestic animal was released in a park in his home territory and was last seen flying toward the spot where he was rescued.—Nikki Silverstein

Got a Hero or a Zero? Please send submissions to nikki_silverstein@yahoo.com.

Toss roses, hurl stones with more Heroes and Zeros at ›› pacificsun.com

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Upfront Courtesy of Planned Parenthood Federation

Outgoing Planned Parenthood Federation of America President Cecile Richards spoke recently at Dominican University about her memoir, ‘Make Trouble: Standing Up, Speaking Out, and Finding the Courage to Lead.’

Social Change Cecile Richards on listening and persevering

By David Templeton

M

‘‘

y mom always used to say, ‘People don’t do things for your reasons, they do things for their reasons,’” asserted Cecile Richards in San Rafael on April 12, sharing her belief— to a full house at Dominican University’s Angelico Hall—that

to create an environment for social change, you have to listen to people, to genuinely try and understand their perspective, even if you disagree with it.

“To be a good leader,” she continued, “you have to understand where people are coming from.

In New York, where I live, I hear people all the time saying that they

can’t believe Trump supporters voted against their own selfinterests. And I have to stop them and say, ‘You know what?

Maybe we don’t know what their self-interest is.’ If we’re going to continue making strides to keep women’s healthcare from being cut back, and to keep abortions safe and legal, there’s a lot more

listening that’s going to have to happen, to find out what people are really worried about in this country.”

Richards, the outgoing president of Planned Parenthood and the daughter of the late Texas Gov. Ann Richards, spoke as part of the university’s Leadership Lecture Series, sponsored by the Institute for Leadership Studies.

Interviewing Richards was Elaine Petrocelli, founder and president of Book Passage, a co-sponsor of the series. Richards has just published her memoir, Make Trouble: Standing Up, Speaking Out, and Finding the Courage to Lead, a bracingly breezy, frequently funny read that is part autobiography, part call to action and part step-by-step guidebook showing readers how to raise a little hell themselves. Even the table of contents reads like a catalogue of bumper stickers, or the appendix of an upbeat selfhelp tome: “Don’t Let the Bastards Get You Down,” “Raised to Make Trouble,” “Question Authority,” “It’s Not the Work, It’s Who You Work With,” “Don’t Wait for Instructions,” “The Resistance Is Female” and, of course, “What Would Ann Richards Do?” In January, Richards announced that she would be stepping down from Planned Parenthood this year, after more than a decade at the helm of the 101-year-old women’s health and reproductiverights organization. The search for a replacement is currently underway.

“It’s amazing to me how many really impressive women have come forward, eager to take this work on,” Richards said in her interview with Petrocelli, making it clear than she believed the organization will continue just fine without her. “I really don’t run Planned Parenthood. It’s a huge organization, and I think we’ll find someone extraordinary to continue this work.”

Richards was raised in Dallas, Texas, where her father worked as a labor attorney, and her mother— initially, anyway—held the job known in those days as “housewife.”

“My parents were basically against everything in Dallas,” she said, adding that attitudes in Dallas were a bit too conservative for her mom and dad, eventually motivating their relocation to Austin. “Some families bowl.

We did politics. I was always »12

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encouraged to speak up for what I thought was right. So, yes, I was pretty much born to be troublemaking.”

Richards attended college at Brown University, in Providence, Rhode Island, a school that she chose, in part, because it was where student protesters had taken over University Hall in 1975.

“That sounded like an awesome place to go to school,” she said.

Once on campus, Richards immediately joined the fight—well, fights.

“We were fighting nuclear power,” she said. “We were fighting apartheid in South Africa. We were fighting for the rights of janitors on campus to have a living wage.”

In the book, Richards says of her college education, “I may have majored in history, but I minored in agitating.”

After graduation, Richards immediately got a job as a union organizer, working with farm workers and hotel workers, men and (in the hotel industry, especially) women, who were lucky to be earning minimum wage and often took on two or three jobs to support their families. It was while working at United Labor Unions in New Orleans that she met her husband, Kirk Adams, also a committed union organizer.

“So basically,” she said, “I fell in love with a fellow troublemaker— and nothing’s been the same since.”

Early in the interview, Petrocelli posed a question about fear to Richards.

“A lot of people feel incredibly marginalized, and scared,” Petrocelli began, “and I would love to know how you might suggest we can get out of feeling so frozen in this frightening time.”

In response, Richards described her own response to the 2016 presidential election. “One of the things that got me through was having the job I have,” she admitted.

“The day after the election, when a lot of people couldn’t get themselves out of bed, thousands of Planned Parenthood clinicians, and doctors and escorts—and probably some people in this room—got up that morning and opened up Planned Parenthood health centers all over the country, because women were waiting for them.”

That, Richards said, sums up what it means to be resilient in the

face of daunting opposition.

“There just wasn’t any other option for us,” she said. “We did not have the option of being morose and sitting around feeling sorry for ourselves. We had to get busy. And we had to get to work defending women’s access to Planned Parenthood’s services, because we knew we’d be the first target of the incoming administration.”

Encouraging and inspiring the cultivation of such resilience is one of the reasons why she wrote Make Trouble, Richards said.

“Every day since the election, someone has stopped me on the street and asked me, ‘What do I do?’” Richards said. “In the early days, I think people literally thought there was one thing we could do that would roll back time and do the election over again.

People felt so lost, and many still do, trying to find their way. I’ve been on the road for 10 days, doing this book tour, and I have to say, it doesn’t feel much like a book tour to me. It feels like a series of organizing rallies across the country, where people are turning up and wanting to talk about how we move forward in America.

“It’s been the best of times and the worst of times,” she added.

“I’ve honestly never seen more organic grassroots organizing in my lifetime. It’s incredibly inspiring.”

In response to a question from the audience, asking how she finds the courage to continue when there have been so many vicious attacks on her and Planned Parenthood, Richards replied that for all of the challenges, it’s been an enormous privilege to work for such an organization.

“And it’s a huge privilege just getting to do social justice work,” she said. “Yes, there are tough times, but that’s what making trouble, and making change, is all about. If it were easy, we wouldn’t be trying hard enough.”

One of the chief faults of many progressives, she pointed out later in the conversation, is the failure to claim and take a sense of achievement from victories that have been won. Instead, she said, many progressives become discouraged, mainly by focusing on the things that aren’t going well.

“I keep reminding people that just 14 months ago, progressives, and most of them women, were

part of some of the largest marches in recorded history in the United States of America,” she said. “The day after the election, Paul Ryan boasted that the first two things he would do when Trump took office were to shut down Planned Parenthood and repeal Obamacare.

The day he said that, you could not get a call into his office, because the phone lines were jammed with pissed-off women calling to defend Planned Parenthood. And here we are today, 14 months later, and our doors are still open all around the country.”

In the category of celebrating victories, Richards tells of the day that then-president Obama called her up on the phone to say that the Affordable Care Act would include no-cost birth control for all women. As a result, she said, the country is currently seeing its lowest rate of abortions since the passing of Roe v. Wade, and its lowest rate of teenage pregnancy in the history of the United States.

“Abortion existed before it was legal,” Richards said, “and it will continue to exist if it’s ever made illegal. But before it was legal it was unsafe, and women died. Legal abortion changed that.”

Noting that at one point, laws in Texas had become so restrictive that it was virtually impossible for women to obtain an abortion— primarily with the passage NB 2 in July of 2013, which set a number of narrow restrictions on all abortion providers in Texas, Richards said that in response women began telling their stories more openly, in magazines and on the internet.

They described, in the wake of NB 2, having to go to Mexico for an illegal abortion, or driving 300 miles to another state where abortion services were still safe and legal. Eventually, in a 5-3 decision of the resulting Supreme Court case—Whole Woman’s Health v.

Hellerstedt—the court overturned NB 2 in June of 2016, declaring the law unconstitutional.

“So in the end, we won,” Richards said, “and we won because we never gave up. That’s the thing that is so important to remember. We are going to have more losses than wins, but as Molly Ivins used to say, ‘If you’re a progressive, you lose, you lose, you lose—and then you win.’ And that’s what we have to keep doing.”Y

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H

ere at the Pacific Sun, it’s the most fun time of the year.

Best of Marin season means discovering what our loyal readers love about this county—from its hardworking people to its beautiful places, putting together a big, colorful paper to honor it all and then sharing it with you.

This year our theme is Carnival,

because, well, who doesn’t love a party?

And with winners in categories that include Arts & Culture, Beauty, Health & Wellness, Everyday, Family, Fitness & Recreation, Food & Drink, Home Improvement and Romance, there’s a lot to celebrate.

We hope that after you flip through

the pages that follow, you feel as grateful as we do to be able to live, work and play here. So enjoy, and thanks for yet another entertaining Best of Marin. The party is just getting started. Don’t forget your feathers and mask.

—Molly Oleson, Editor

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Elena Bessonova

ARTS & CULTURE F

rom world-class art festivals, to movie theaters that invite filmmakers to talk about their work, to music venues that welcome big-name performers, Marin has it all when it comes to Arts & Culture. Marin residents can often be overheard saying that they don’t go into San Francisco much. One wonders if that’s really “because of the traffic.” Most likely, it’s because there’s really no reason to leave when, on any given week, you can catch a play, a ballet or your favorite band just a stone’s throw away.

Best Art Festival

Best Charity Event

Best Indie Filmmaker

Sausalito Art Festival

Woofstock, Marin Humane

Gary Yost

Best Art Gallery Art Works Downtown

Best Art Studio Studio4Art

Best Ballet Company Marin Ballet

Best Band Danny Click & The Hell Yeahs!

Best Cover Band Petty Theft

Best Dance Studio Love2Dance

Best Festival Fairfax Festival

Best Film Festival Mill Valley Film Festival

Best Media Personality: TV, Radio, Print Rick Clark, KWMR

Best Movie Theater Christopher B. Smith Rafael Film Center

Best Museum Marin Museum of Contemporary Art

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WRITER’S PICK

West Marin’s community radio station KWMR serves the region in more ways than one. And this year, in fact, one of its radio hosts, Rick Clark, was crowned Best Media Personality: TV, Radio, Print.

While the radio regularly represents and informs the local scene over the air, KWMR is inviting the public to the Best Storytelling Paired With Cuisine at the 5th annual Eat My Heart Out Supper Club on Saturday, April 28.

Held in the historic Peace Barn in Bolinas, the dinner party marries live presentations with several courses of dinner that are directly inspired by the stories. This year, the supper club welcomes acclaimed actor David Strathairn to the table as the event’s featured storyteller.

Strathairn is best known for his Oscar-nominated performance as iconic newsman Edward R. Murrow in 2005’s Good Night, and Good Luck, and his resonating voice recently portrayed President Roosevelt in Darkest Hour.

Fellow storytellers Mark Buell, Vivien Straus and others will join Strathairn, and chef Matthew Elias of The Bodega returns for a fourth year to turn the stories into an imaginative meal. This fundraiser for KWMR regularly sells out, so snag tickets quickly, and eat your heart out.—C.S. 70 Olema Bolinas Rd., Bolinas; kwmr.org.

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ARTS & CULTURE Plein Air

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JUDY MOLYNEUX

For more than 60 years, the Sausalito Art Festival has attracted art collectors, aficionados and enthusiasts alike for a Labor Day weekend extravaganza that has earned it two titles in Marin: Best Art Festival and Best Outdoor Art Event. In fact, the festival is considered one of the most prestigious art events in the country, featuring fine art in every medium from more than 250 artists, and pairing that art with gourmet food, sumptuous wines, music, children’s entertainment and more.

Novato ceramic sculptor Barbara Sebastian, as well as artists from around the country, such as Portland, Michigan glass artist Mark Lewanski and Texas artist George H. Jones, have displayed their work. The festival has also boasted concerts from headlining artists like Pablo Cruise, War, Foghat and local bands like Rusty String Express and Charged Particles.

While little is known about 2018’s lineup, the festival’s timing in late summer and location on the

Sausalito waterfront is more than enough reason to mark the event on your calendar.—Charlie Swanson sausalitoartfestival.org.

Heartbreak For more than a decade, San Francisco’s Petty Theft, Marin’s Best Cover Band, has been runnin’ down the dream of embodying one of American music’s most iconic bands, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers.

This tribute act started learning to fly way back in 2003, and over the years they’ve gone into the great wide open with live performances all over the West Coast.

Made up of veteran musicians like lead singer and guitarist Dan Durkin, who also founded Marin County bands Frontline and East of Eden, and bassist Django Bayless of late ’80s Marin bands like Sapphire, Petty Theft is a favorite for all—from the musical refugee to the American girl.

Though the world lost Tom Petty last year, Petty Theft has not had a change of heart about playing his music, and they won’t back down

Mgr., Bolinas Gallery | 415.868.0782 | molyneuxart.com

Photo credit: Desire to Inspire Studios

On behalf of our incredible members, thank you for voting us the Best Chamber of Commerce in Marin!

415-454-4163 | www.srchamber.com

Andrea Salles

San Rafael Chamber Terrapin Crossroads, the Best Place to Dance, also takes important causes to heart.

This year, the popular venue hosted a fundraiser after the Northern California fires.

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from representing the songwriter.

The band has several shows in the Bay Area coming in May.—C.S. pettytheftrocks.com.

Animal Lovers When counterculture icon Wavy Gravy opened the legendary Woodstock Festival in 1969 by declaring, “What we have in mind is breakfast in bed for 400,000,” he was signaling to the world that the event was going to be based on caring, compassion and fellowship. Those ideals are exactly what drive the staff at Marin Humane, the county’s independent animal shelter, so it’s

WRITER’S PICKS

Fish Fiesta

no surprise that the group adopts Woodstock’s moniker for their annual fundraiser, Woofstock, voted Marin’s Best Charity Event.

Last year’s attendees enjoyed music by Bay Area yacht rockers Mustache Harbor, with beer and wine for the adults, the ever-popular Kid’s Zone for the young ones and local merchants and animal rescue groups on hand to help loving families find a new friend. Keep an eye out for 2018’s Woofstock, and get information about adopting a pet at marinhumane.org.—C.S. 171 Bel Marin Keys Blvd., Novato; 415.883.4621.

WRITER’S PICKS

January in the Marin fishing world means herring, and every January at Sausalito Community Boating Center’s Cass Gidley Marina, the Sausalito Herring Celebration offers the Best Seafood Served Straight From the Water. In addition to a seaworthy feast prepared by several local restaurants—including contributions last year from Davey Jones Deli and Angelino Restaurant—the celebration always features live music, entertainment and docents on hand for tours and information. This past year’s celebration also included a screening of the award-winning film Sonic Sea, about the damage being done in our oceans from noise-polluting tankers and cruise ships, with an expert panel to weigh in. The fundraising event also helped the boating center continue with much-needed renovations this winter.—C.S. Cass Gidley Marina, 1001 Bridgeway Blvd., #541, Sausalito; sausalitocommunityboating.org.

Creative Roots A tradition entering its 35th year in 2019, the American Indian Art Show, where one can find the Best Display of Indigenous Art, is recognized as the West Coast’s largest celebration of antique works created by Native American populations from the pre-colonial era.

Every February, the Marin Civic Center welcomes more than 100 dealers and artists to show and sell an array of culturally rich works including jewelry, textiles, woven baskets, pottery and beadwork, in addition to paintings, photography and literary works. Last February, Marin’s American Indian Art Show was held on consecutive weekends with the San Francisco Tribal & Textile Art Show to create the San Francisco Tribal Art Week. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a first-time observer, this ever-growing show is unparalleled.—C.S. Marin Civic Center, 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael; 415.473.6800.

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ARTS & CULTURE

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Thank You for Voting Dr. Don Wilson Best Orthodontist!

Free Consultation including X-ray & Photos.

Bring in ad for $250 off!

415.878.0240 • Novato • WilsonOrtho.com

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Albina Tiplyashina

BEAUTY, HEALTH & WELLNESS

A

s they say, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

And in Marin, beauty, health and wellness are in the hands of the professionals working hard to make you look and feel your best. There are those ready to help primp you for a gala, massage away the stress and guide you through meditation. Behind all of the stares that you’ll attract, there are curiosities about who helped you reach the top of the world.

Best Acupuncturist Karen Reynolds

Best Allergist Schuman Tam, MD

Best Chiropractor

Best Ear, Nose & Throat Physician

Best Esthetician

Romeo Agbayani Jr., MD

Best Eyelash Extensions and/or Brow Enhancements

Best Endodontist Darron Rishwain, DDS

Evo Spa

Gloss Beauty

Jonathan Smith

Best ER Doctor

Best Dentist

Jeffrey Jim Dietz, Marin General Practice

Best Facial

Best Esthetic Dentist

Best Family Practitioner

Roni Dawn Douglas, DDS

Best Dermatologist Southern Marin Dermatology

James A. McDowell, DDS

Evo Spa

Curtis F. Robinson, MD

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Thank you for Voting Us Best Laser Cosmetic Surgery Center BEAUTY, HEALTH & WELLNESS Best Full-Service Beauty Salon

Best Lasik Eye Surgery

Milvali Salon & Cosmetics

Marin Eyes

Best General Practice Physician

Best Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Barry S. Landfield, MD

Best Hair Salon D&O Salon 1000 MAGNOLIA AVE. LARKSPUR

415-461-5755

How Much Do You Love Your Dental Office?

Best Heart Surgeon Joel Sklar, MD

Best Holistic Health Center Preventative Medical Center of Marin

Best Holistic Herbal Shop Gathering Thyme

A Huge Shout Out & Thank You

To the Pacific Sun, the readers and our loyal patients for placing your votes!

Best Holistic Practitioner

Kathy Jarosz

Best Local Hospital Marin General

Best Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) Alane Freund, LMFT, Heart & Mind Equine

Best Massage Services Evo Spa

Best Midwife Diane Holzer

Kim Peirano, LAc, Lion’s Heart Wellness

Best Nail Services

Best Internal Medicine Physician

Best OB/GYN

Dr. Elizabeth Lowe, MD

Lavande David B. Galland, MD

Best Laser Surgery Center

Best Oncologist

Bay Area Laser Cosmetic Surgery Center

Best Ophthalmologist

Jennifer Lucas, MD Robert R. Anderson, MD

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BEAUTY, HEALTH & WELLNESS Best Oral Surgeon Louie R. Limchayseng, MD

Best Rehabilitation Center

Best Orthodontist

Serenity Knolls

Dr. Don L. Wilson

Best Retreat Center

Best Orthopedic Surgeon Brian W. Su, MD

Best Pediatrician Jeanette White, MD, PhD, FAAP

Best Pharmacy Jack’s Drug Store & Medical Supplies

Best Physical Therapist Katherine Manning, Marin Physical Therapy

Best Plastic Surgeon Dr. Yngvar Hvistendahl

Best Psychiatrist

Dr. Hvistendahl & Dr. Poulos 40 Yrs. + Combined Experience Specializing in Mommy Makeover, Body Contouring & QuickLift.

plastic surgery specialists

SPA

Introducing

Spirit Rock Meditation Center

Best Spa Evo Spa

Best Spa/Hot Tub Store Creative Energy

Best Sports Medicine Sports Massage Marin

Best Spray Tan Evo Spa

Best Urgent Care Center Golden Gate Urgent Care

Dr. Adam Nelson, MD

Best Waxing Studio

Best Psychologist

Lavande

Dr. Julie Nicholson

Third Year in a Row! Voted best surgeons in Marin!

For those who aren’t ready for surgery, we’ve opened our beautiful SPAPSS offering: Non-invasive treatments and a Beauty Plan to make all affordable; including • CoolSculpting ® • Venus Radio Frequency Technology • Laser treatments, including Halo deep resurfacing and BBL • Hair restoration with PRP and Nutrafol supplements • Microchanneling with PRP • Botox and Fillers • Medical Grade Skin Care • Health & Wellness, including Obalon and Orbera Weight Loss Balloon • Deep Cleaning Hydrafacial • Geneveve feminine rejuvenation • Beauty Plan payment plan, automatic 10% off everything forever w/ signup Sign up for our newsletter & stay informed regarding our new treatments & specials.

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NEW! Health & Wellness Program at PSS, including Obalon and Orbera gastric balloons We are excited to offer a Health program with weight loss support, including coaching from our amazing Director Bethany. Since the program initiation her patients have lost 1/2 a ton of weight.

We offer techonology like gastric balloons (Obalon and Orbera) and appetite suppressants to help you lose and maintain weight loss.

Additionally we’ve just introduced Geneveve, a non invasive 30minute procedure to improve womens intimate health, including vaginal rejuvenation. This procedure helps dryness, laxity, and sensation.

Intro offer:10% off any procedure Mention PACSUN for discount.

Some restrictions apply.

Please visit us at www.psspecialists.com

350 Bon Air Rd #300, Greenbrae CA 94904 415.925.2880

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plastic surgery specialists

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26 THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST OF MARIN. WE APPRECIATE YOUR ONGOING LOYALTY & SUPPORT.

BEAUTY, HEALTH & WELLNESS

880 REDWOOD HWY. STE. 220 MILL VALLEY 415-389-8000 DNOSALON.COM

A variety of herbs are used in the products offered at Gathering Thyme, an independent, women-owned herb store crowned Best Holistic Herbal Shop.

Soak it Up

Mirror, Mirror

Few things are as relaxing at the end of a busy day as a bubbling and comforting hot tub. At Creative Energy, Marin’s Best Spa/Hot Tub Store, this dream is an everyday reality, complete with a test soak and a dazzling selection of spa tubs. For those who want to get a workout in, swim spas offer the ultimate fitness pool, with hydromassage luxury. Need more warmth in your life? Creative Energy also sells fireplaces and firepits.—Flora Tsapovsky

No one else thought of spelling Mill Valley in such a fashion-forward way, and, accordingly, no other salon has won as many hearts as MilVali Salon, this year’s winner in the Best FullService Beauty Salon category. A onestop shop for all things beautification, MilVali’s accurate and professional team does everything equally well; readers and Yelpers praise the naturallooking lash extensions, the high-end tanning services and the expert cuts, as well as the salon’s willingness to accept walk-ins on a regular basis (who doesn’t need a professional makeup session last-minute?) Service is onpoint, too; first-time customers are treated like regulars here, and regulars are practically family.—F.T.

4100 Redwood Hwy., San Rafael; 415.472.7727.

3 E. Blithedale Ave., Mill Valley; 415.388.0988.

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Pain, Pain Go Away What defines sports massage? Instead of the pampering, soft strokes, proper sports massage targets muscle groups and attacks them gently, but firmly. At Sports Massage Marin (in Corte Madera and San Rafael), winner of Best Sports Medicine, athletes and regular folks get the right combo of helpful and fun, with targeted massages aimed at elevating the strenuous effects of a hardcore workout. At first, you’ll hear a lot of professional lingo—IT Band, PNF stretches, the scalenes, Levator Scapula and more, illustrating the fact that this is serious business. Then, all of your pains and tight spots go away.

You’re welcome.—F.T. sportsmassagemarin.com.

In Good Hands Acupuncture is as precise as it is mysterious. Corte Madera’s own Karen Reynolds, Marin’s Best Acupuncturist, is a little bit of both, and every bit the professional in the field, whom people seek.

Experienced with baby acupuncture and very knowledgeable about fertility issues, Reynolds (who wrote the book Baby Blueprints in 2015) is a kind, caring figure on the local alternative medicine scene. She possesses knowledge in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and knows her way through the Daoist philosophyinspired 5 Element Acupuncture.

But even those who shy away from unconventional methods will be happy; Reynolds’ experience as a medical nurse is a doubter’s bonus.—F.T. 45 San Clemente Dr., Ste B220, Corte Madera; 415.737.0247.

Helping Hand Sometimes we need something to help us relax, and a glass of wine

or a puff can usually do the trick.

But often there are deeper issues, which lead us to overindulge— and that’s when it can become a problem. Fortunately, there’s a place in Marin designed for people who need a little extra help: Serenity Knolls, the place readers picked this year for Best Rehabilitation Center. Located in a private spot in peaceful Forest Knolls, Serenity Knolls has, for more than 25 years, been dedicated to working with people to become free of addiction and overcome substance abuse so that they can live happier, healthier lives. Programs include a 12-step detox treatment, family support and lifelong aftercare support.

The staff is well-trained, caring, kind and supportive, which is just what is needed for this kind of work.—Lily O’Brien 145 Tamal Rd., Forest Knolls; 877.689.7002.

Taking Care When it comes to taking care of your body, especially related to reproduction and women’s health, picking the right doctor is key. Not only do you want someone who is highly skilled, but also someone who is personable, kind and compassionate. David B. Galland, MD, chosen this year by readers as Marin’s Best OB/GYN, fits that description to a T. Dr. Galland has been practicing in Larkspur for more than 29 years. One of his YELP reviewers sums him up perfectly: Dr. Galland has “excellent bedside manner, the real deal—he genuinely cares, takes time to listen, and goes above and beyond what most OB/GYNs do.” What more could you ask for?—L.O. 100A Drakes Landing Rd., Suite 225, Greenbrae; 415.461.7800.

WRITER’S PICK

+ lifestyle boutique

Thank you for voting

EVO SPA THE BEST MASSAGE, FACIAL, SPRAY TAN SPA & ESTHETICIAN

It is an honor to serve you! with Deep Gratitude The Evo Spa Team

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

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BEAUTY, HEALTH & WELLNESS

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BEAUTY, HEALTH & WELLNESS

Trending

WRITER’S PICKS

Once in a while, a business opens and instantly becomes a winner.

More often than not, such a place photographs well and packs style and substance into a chic single whole. Alchemy Marin, the Best Place That Caters to Wellness Fanatics and Beauty Mavens, is such a place. And on top of cute interiors and a friendly staff, Alchemy, a new-ish kid on the block, offers very effective treatments for every possible need—from full-on Botox to a pop-inand-out lash lift. The ladies at Alchemy stay on top of every health trend out there. Cupping? Craniosacral therapy? Concentrated serums that actually work? The centrally located salon has it all; no wonder it became a local beauty mecca in no time.—F.T. 925 Fourth St., Loft B, San Rafael; 415.295.7953.

Just Browsing Many places, including nail salons, offer brow and eyelashrelated treatments, but Marin County is lucky to have the Best Eyebrow Shaper, Michelle Holmes, on hand. The long-time Marin-based expert opened her beautiful Michelle Holmes Studio in 2017 and has been shaping local eyebrows (and lives) on location ever since. Using tweezers only, for best effortlesslooking results, Holmes manages to capture the elusive ‘natural’ look, which spells, “I just happen to have the perfect brows— deal with it.” More services are coming this year, making the small studio a place to put on your 2018 radar.—F.T.

Thank you

Marin!

WINNER

for Voting for

Kay Fahlstrom Vo t e d B e s t Fi n e J e w e l r y S t o r e 2018

Best Psychic Medium

KayFahlstrom.com 415-420-4994 20 OFF

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in-person reading (with this ad) expires 5-31-18 mill valley, ca ww w.sofiajewelry.com

2017 MarinMagazine_20170400.indd 1

4/17/18 8:53 PM

211 Corte Madera Ave., Corte Madera; 415.735.6920.

Kind Touch Sometime this past summer, which seems like ages ago, I gave birth to my first-born, at Marin General. Not that I have anything to compare it to, but other women’s stories and my own gut feeling led me to believe that it was the Best Place to Deliver a Baby in the Bay Area, and possibly in the whole wide world. My view of Mt. Tam might have been obscured by the now almost-finished construction of a new building, but everything else was clear as day.

How surprised I was to find that Marin General, which was also voted by readers as Marin’s Best Local Hospital, had a delicious veggie burger, and other scrumptious dishes that I got to choose from daily. How delighted I was to get a daily visit from a volunteer massage therapist, who, with a kind touch and a nice word, melted away my newly acquired aches and fears. How cared for I felt through the whole stay, with countless visits and checkups by reliable and wickedly funny nurses, friendly doctors

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250 Bon Air Rd., Greenbrae; 415.925.7000.

Massage Craving There’s massage, and then there’s Esalen massage. Invented by the acclaimed Esalen Institute in southern California, the Harmonia Esalen massage, the Most Divine Massage, is part energy healing, part long, comforting strokes and all unapologetic pampering. At the new Harmonia complex in Sausalito, it’s delivered expertly in a darkened, silent room, by talented massage therapists who love their work. Topped with a visit to Harmonia’s relaxing sauna, this was the massage that had me craving the experience again and again.—F.T.

BEST SENIOR SERVICES

BEST NONPROFIT

2200 Marinship Way, Sausalito; 415.332.1432.

Beauty Routine Is it possible that the Most Gorgeous, Sustainable Beauty Brand on the market has come out of Sausalito? Indeed it is. Lilah b., the 3-year-old brand founded by Cheryl Yannotti Foland, has stylish packaging (the pebble motif is inspired by the nearby beaches), flattering shades of lipstick and blush, customizable sets for the ultimate beauty routine and, most importantly, cruelty-free formulas and natural ingredients. Pile them on!—F.T. lilahbeauty.com.

HELPING MARIN AGE VIBRANTLY THROUGH THE POWER OF HUMAN CONNECTIONS.

Gloss Beauty, this year’s pick for Best Eyelash Extensions and/or Grow Enhancements, is a one-stop shop for facials, brows, lashes, makeup, waxing and massage.

whistlestop.org | 415-456-9062

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and other well-meaning professionals. None of it was taken for granted, and now, when I take my 9-month-old daughter for a walk by Corte Madera Creek, I look towards the hospital with warmth and fond memories. How many women can say that about their delivery experience?—F.T.

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Boguslaw Mazur

everyday W

hen it comes to finding art supplies for your latest creative project, a new book that you’ve been dying to read, a bouquet of flowers for a loved one or even new car tires that will ensure a safe trip out to Stinson Beach, Marin is the place for top-tier everyday items. Even if you don’t really need anything, it’s fun to browse at places that make you feel like you’re part of a welcoming, thriving community that appreciates and celebrates everything local and special. So have fun out there, whether you’re checking out jewelry, scoping out a vintage dress for an upcoming party or dreaming about a liberating motorcycle ride up the coast.—M.O.

Best Accountant Gary Winston

Best Antique Shop Laurel House Antiques

Best Art Supply Store RileyStreet Art Supply

Best Attorney

Best Auto Dealer (new) Toyota Marin

Best Auto Dealer (used) Toyota Marin

Best Auto Detailing

Roger M. Vosburg

Matt & Jeff’s Car Wash & Detail Center

Best Auto Body Repair

Best Auto Repair

Blake’s Auto Body

Easy Automotive

Best Barber Barber Lane

Best Body Art Place (tattoo, piercing, etc.)

Spider Murphy’s Tattoo

Best Bookstore (new) Book Passage

Best Bookstore (used) Rebound Bookstore

Best Business Bank Bank of Marin

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Best Of Marin

Thank You for Us Thank You For Voting Over Voting 14 Years!!

Us Best Of Marin Best of Marin

EVERYDAY

Over 14 Years!!

Years!!

Over 14

Best Camera/ Photography Store

Best Digital Creative Services

Seawood Photo

Anna Trueman, Lotus Live Design & Social Media

Best Car Audio City Car Radio

Best Chamber of Commerce San Rafael

Best Clothing Store— Men’s Gene Hiller: Fine Menswear

Best Clothing Store— Women’s The Store

blakesautobody.com

San Rafael • Novato • Rohnert Park • Santa Rosa blakesautobody.com

San Rafael • Novato • Rohnert Park • Santa Rosa

Best Consignment Store Knimble

Best Consumer Bank Bank of Marin

Work with authors, agents, editors, illustrators, and publishers at the

book Passage writers’ ConferenCe for Children’s books June 15-17, 2018 www.bookpassage.com (415) 927-0960 Thank you Pacific Sun Readers for voting us Marin’s Best Bookstore!

Corte Madera • Sausalito • San Francisco

Best Costume/Festival Apparel Shop The Belrose

Best Credit Union Redwood Credit Union

Best Culinary Store Dvorson’s Restaurant Supply

Best Eco-Conscious Business Bellam Self Storage & Boxes

Best Ethnic Market Mi Pueblo

Best Event Production Services Company Steve Restivo Event Services

Best Fashion Jewelry Store Marin Jewelers Guild

Best Financial Advisor Andrei Jigalin, Alpha Wealth Management & Planning

Best Fine Jewelry Store Sofia Jewelry

Best Florist Mill Valley Flowers

Best Framing Shop Ringseis Designs

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HONDA • TOYOTA • SUBARU • NISSAN • JEEP • LEXUS • ISUZU • INFINITI • MAZDA • ACURA • MITSUBISHI

EASY AUTOMOTIVE

To Our Loyal Customers: THANK YOU for your vote and continued support over the years!

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Hybrid

Mark & DebbieFriendly

Best Care Repair

TO OUR LOYAL CUSTOMERS: THANK YOU!

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Check All Fluid Levels Rotate Tires (as needed) With this coupon only Free 22pt. Inspection exp. 5/31/18 Free Consultation (by appt. only)

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ieeGUYS •DEL IVERY•

DELIVERING WELLNESS TO YOUR DOORSTEP Welcome to Nice Guys Delivery! We are a Medical Cannabis Delivery Service serving Marin County and the surrounding areas. We offer the highest grade flowers, edibles, lotions, teas, and tinctures on the market. We strive to provide our customers with the best quality and service over any delivery service out there. Give us a call!

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Best Furniture/Home Furnishings

Best Musical Instruments Store

Sunrise Home

The Magic Flute

Best Gift Shop Columbine

Best Natural Foods Store

Best Grocery Store

Good Earth Natural Foods

Mollie Stone’s Markets

Best Home Audio World of Sound

Best Hotel/Resort Cavallo Point

Best Hydroponic Supply Store Marin Hydroponics

Best Judge Roy O. Chernus

Best Law Firm Kelley & Farren, LLP

Best Local Food Product Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Company

Dimensions in Travel plans all types of vacations world-wide and specializes in family celebrations, group cruises, tours for women, travel services for guide dog teams and Backroads trips.

We look forward to creating beautiful travel memories for you too.

Baba Yaga

Best Nonprofit Whistlestop

Best Optical Store 20/20 Optical

Best Phone Repair Gadget Pro

Best Pipe Shop Telford’s Pipe & Cigar

Best Psychic/Medium Kay Fahlstrom

Best Record/CD Store Mill Valley Music

Miyoko’s Kitchen

Marin Sanitary Service

Motopia

BEST TRAVEL AGENCY!

Best New Retail Business (opened in 2017)

Best Locally Made Retail Product Best Motorcycle/ Scooter Shop

Thank you Marin for voting us

Best Recycling Center Best Senior Living Facility The Redwoods

CTS#1001493-40

201 Alameda del Prado, Suite 203, Novato www.dimensionsintravel.com 415.883.3245 • info@dimensionsintravel.com

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EVERYDAY

Best Cleaning Service

EVERYDAY

NEED SOME HELP? WE’RE HERE FOR YOU. Each franchise is independentky owned and operated.

On special occasions or a regular cleaning schedule.

The most trusted and reliable team in house cleaning 415.454.3600 MollyMaid.com

DOGVILLE

Best Senior Services

Best Transportation

Whistlestop

SMART Train

Best Shoe Store

Best Travel Agency

San Francisco Running Company

Dimensions in Travel

Best Tire Shop

The Mighty Quinn

Cains Tire

Best Tow Service Redhill Towing & Auto Repair

Best Vape Shop Best Vintage Clothing Store Baba Yaga

Best Town Other Than Your Own Larkspur

Thank you!

Best Used Bookstore Marin!

Books • CDs • DVDs • Spoken word/music events • Customer Reward Cards • Local artists cards • Hand-made French truffles BUy, SeLL giFt CeRtiFiCateS

Voted Best Pet Boutique

und Booksto o b e r

e

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The Biggest Little Bookstore in the Universe

554 San Anselmo Ave San Anselmo, CA 415.454.2090

1611 4th Street, San Rafael 415.482.0550 reboundbookstore.com

Courtesy of Baba Yaga

Thank you for voting for us!

Voted Best New Retail Business (opened in 2017) and Best Vintage Clothing Store, Baba Yaga offers vintage clothing, jewelry, picks from indy designers and more.

...when you bring in & donate your old glasses!

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M.A. Organization Development Ready to make a difference?

Guide the redesign of organizational structures, work processes, and governance to develop holistically sound organizations.

Info Session Wednesday, May 1 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Rachel Carson Hall 44D, SSU $5 parking pass required in SSU general lots

sonoma.edu/exed/orgdev MAOD@sonoma.edu

707.664.3977

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OUR BEST EXTERIOR DETAIL

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YOUR PRICE $12999

YOUR PRICE $3499

REG $22999

REG $3999

12-31-2018

SERVICES: EXTERIOR CAR WASH INTERIOR/EXTERIOR CAR WASH • AUTO DETAILING

125 Vintage Way • Novato, CA 94945 415.899.9952 • mattandjeffscarwash.com

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

SNF# 010000390 RCFE# 210102866

018 2014-2

Contact Cheri Drees for a Tour 415.383.2741 x223

CERTIF IED GREEN BUSINESS • FREE MUSIC WEDNESDAYS • GIVE BACK TUESDAYS

Floral Fantasy

Young at Heart

When strolling in downtown Mill Valley, you can’t help but notice the colorful array of flowers displayed outside the charming, oldfashioned-looking brick building that houses Mill Valley Flowers, this year’s readers’ choice for Best Florist. It’s hard to pass by without wanting to pick up a bouquet.

Founded 25 years ago by “a tiny, mighty woman and a tall, blonde Swede” who fell in love and bought the flower shop, it’s become the go-to place for weddings, special occasions and holidays in Marin.

With three trips per week to the San Francisco Flower Mart, Mill Valley Flowers prides itself on offering only the freshest seasonal flowers, including a selection of leafy plants and dazzling orchids. Expert design and local delivery can be counted on seven days a week, and this place has everything you need to make someone’s day—or just your own.— Lily O’Brien

How did the years catch up with us so fast? The good news is, we’re still living in Marin, and many of us are still pretty spunky. But the kids left home a long time ago, we’re aging and it’s time to downsize.

The Redwoods, chosen this year as the Best Senior Living Facility in Marin, is looking good. With a recently renovated campus, The Redwoods is located on 10 acres in Mill Valley, and has glorious views of Mt. Tam. Programs cover everything from music and the arts, to nature, to spirituality and relationships to movement and exercise, so life is never dull. You can choose a studio or one-bedroom apartment, with or without a meal plan, and skilled nursing and assisted living are also available. A transportation program offers shuttles that take residents on special excursions, to the doctor or on a loop to various places all over Marin. Who said that getting old is so bad?—L.O.

54 Throckmorton Ave., Mill Valley; 415.388.7781.

40 Camino Alto, Mill Valley; 415.383.2741.

Budding Biz

Iron Springs Pub & Brewery

765 Center Boulevard Fairfax, CA 94930 (415) 485-1005 Open at noon for lunch and dinner Happy Hour Drinks all day Monday, and Tuesday-Friday 4:00 to 6:00

Courtesy of SMART

The shiny new SMART trains rolling through Marin were chosen this year for Best Transportation.

Iron Springs Public House

901 4th St. San Rafael, CA 94901 (415) 457-6258 Open Sunday/Monday 11:30am-9:30pm, Tuesday-Saturday 11:30am-10:00pm.

IRONSPRINGSPUB.COM

WRITER’S PICKS

With things getting more cannabisfriendly in California every day, The Mighty Quinn, this year’s winner for Best Vape Shop, is strutting its stuff in a more mainstream way.

Founded in 1979 in Santa Rosa (there are now four locations), Quinn prides itself on selecting the most beautiful functional art glass—including painted pipes and pendants—from artists and companies around the world.

Papers, lighters and assorted vaping accessories can be found here, and The Mighty Quinn offers sales that celebrate holidays like 420. So whether you’re smoking tobacco or ganja, San Rafael’s shop has you covered.—L.O. mightyquinnsmokeshop.com.

Voted Best Brew Pub

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EVERYDAY

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EVERYDAY What are you waiting for?

Expert Brow Shaping | Hair Extensions Cut & Color | Custom Facials Airbrush Tanning Gift certificates available Open 7 days a week Mill Valley 415.388.0988 Union Street 415.409.1500 www.milvali.com

Thank You for Voting for us!

Best Full Service Beauty Salon

Strawberry Recreation District

Ready, Set, Go ...

CAMP STRAWBERRY!

Go Swimming! Go Tennis! Go Cooking!

Go Yoga! Go Arts & Crafts! Go Nature!

Go Science! Go Adventure!

11 one week camps full summer or weekly options

Digging the Vibe

WRITER’S PICKS

When you want to “get out of town,” but not out of Marin, West Marin beckons, and Point Reyes Station is the Best Place for Feeling Like You’ve Left the Hubbub Behind. The drive there—during which you’re surrounded by forests and rolling hills—is inspiring in itself. And the town is a lovely place to stroll—slowly. The main drag is lined with gift shops, bakeries and cafes, restaurants, a bookstore and an art gallery with ever-changing shows. The bustling Toby’s Feed Barn, a general store and working feed barn that’s been around since 1942, offers coffee, yoga, a farmers’ market, author talks and more. A mecca for bicyclists and hikers heading to nearby trails and beaches, Point Reyes Station has a hip, friendly and rustic vibe, and it’s managed to maintain its small-town charm.—L.O. pointreyes.org.

Nevertheless, She Persisted It’s very heartening to see women of the world becoming more empowered every day. And sometimes, the only thing holding them back is the tools they need to strengthen their work and their voices. Enter Marin’s YWCA’s Fifty+ Program, the Best Place for Women to Get Back on Their Feet.

The San Rafael nonprofit has been helping women 50 and over gain financial independence since 2000. A group of selfless women offers free services that include beginner and advanced computer classes in Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel, skills for interviewing and networking, drop-in resume and interview coaching and advice on how to choose a career direction, to those who have either never worked, or need to work now, but don’t have the skills necessary to do it. Employment Specialist Nancy Richardson is a warm and caring person who goes above and beyond to help women find their way, and Administrative Assistant Gretchen Dean is always ready to help anyone who walks through the door. Truly dedicated to helping other women, this program is a gem.—L.O. 4380 Redwood Highway, Ste. A-1, San Rafael; 415.479.YWCA.

June 4 - August 17 Ages: 4-5 • 6-10 • 11-15

Athletic Cross Training Camp - Ages 8-12 Professional athletic instruction in swimming, tennis, soccer and so much more!

Sign up now!

Courtesy of Bruce Burtch

Register Online: http://strawberry.marin.org

118 E. Strawberry Drive, Mill Valley • (415) 383-6494

RileyStreet Art Supply, Marin’s Best Art Supply Store, offers a large selection of art supplies, art classes for all ages and supports budding artists by displaying their work.

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Thank you for voting us "Best Holistic Herb Shop"

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UNOFFICIAL SPONSORS OF

EVERYDAY WRITER’S PICK

Aesthetic Ace

Schedule your free, no-obligation estimate today!

1-800-468-5865 | 1800gotjunk.com

TIM WALSH BUILDERS, Inc. A FULL-SERVICE REMODELING AND CONSTRUCTION COMPANY

THANK YOU

Grocery shopping can be one of those dreaded things that you have to do in between all of the other things on your list. And walking up and down the aisles of a large supermarket, with harsh overhead lighting and chilly temperatures, makes it even less appealing. Except if you choose to shop at the family-owned Nugget Markets, the Best Place for Grocery Shopping That Doesn’t Feel Like a Chore. They have a dozen locations in California, and the Novato store is pleasant as soon as you pull up and see the fresh produce arranged in bins outside. When you walk inside, you’re greeted by fresh f lowers and a large selection of always-fresh and neatly displayed fruits and vegetables, many of them organic. The lighting is warm, the aisles are not too long or wide and everything seems to have a gourmet-but-homey feel to it, which makes it fun to browse for new things to eat. And you will find a lot of unusual, tempting items. But the best part of this market is the service. From the deli, to the bakery, to the meat department to the checkout, everyone serving you does so with a smile. The store is well-managed, so you’ll never have to wait long, and the cashiers always ask, sincerely, if you’ve found everything you wanted. At Nugget Markets, shopping is actually a joy.—L.O. Nuggetmarket.com.

Wheels & Wildlife When it’s sunny in Marin, there’s nothing better than getting out in nature. My first choice is always to head out on my bike to the Bay Trail at Hamilton in Novato, which ends up at Las Gallinas Wildlife Ponds, the Best Place for Biking and Birding in Marin.

The trail is mostly paved, and perfect for walking or riding—but a bonus is the birds. As you weave in and out on the pathways that crisscross the ponds, depending on the season, you can spot swans, egrets, ducks, geese, herons (including the great blue), northern harriers, finches and sparrows. Pack some binoculars, and you just might spot some newly hatched babies. For a change of attitude, this place does not disappoint.—L.O. lgvsd.org.

BEST RESIDENTIAL CONTRACTOR 415-381-9806 Tim Walsh Builders,Inc. California License # B–350371 403 Throckmorton Ave. MIll Valley, CA 94941 timwalshbuilders.com

WRITER’S PICKS

Consultation Design Installation Service Fireplace Inserts Hot Tubs Endless Pools Firepits NEW LOCATION

San Rafael

(415) 472-7727

4100 Redwood Hwy

www.CreativeEnergy.com

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The First Choice for Homeowners, Custom Builders & Interior Designers

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Kathleen Murphy, Michael Baranowski Volunteers, cooking for those in need 10 years Bradley Agents 10 years

Community Spirit.

Real Commitment.

We’re right here. Northern California’s truly local real estate company. With us you get local knowledge, local people, and service that is downright neighborly. But don’t let our small-town style fool you. With over 450 agents in eleven offices, leading edge technology and global marketing reach, we have the clout to make big things happen for our clients. What really makes us different is that our management, our founder and our profits, all are here. And we work hard every day to make a difference in our communities and in the lives of the people who live here.

Visit us at www.BradleyRealEstate.com.

Yo u r Ne i g h b o r. Yo u r Pa r t n e r.

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family M

arin County is not a bad place to raise a kid or have a pet. Multiple destinations to bring children to keep them happy—museums that will teach them about science, parks that will thrill them and restaurants where they won’t get the evil eye for laughing—make for low-stress, happy outings. And with Marin animal-loving professionals who will spoil your pets like they’re getting them camera-ready for a Hollywood film, or playing with them until they’re dizzy with excitement while you’re sipping a tropical cocktail in Costa Rica, your furry friends are in good hands.—M.O.

Best Animal Adoption Center

Best Children’s Clothing Store

Best Children’s Museum

Marin Humane

Play It Again Kids

Best Animal Hospital

Best Children’s Consignment Store

Bay Area Discovery Museum

San Marin Animal Hospital

Best Baby Gift Store

SeeSaw Children’s Consignment Shop

Best Child-Friendly Restaurant Terrapin Crossroads

Best Children’s Educational Center

Best College

Osher Marin JCC

Bay Area Discovery Museum

Best Obedience School

Best Child Care Center

Best Children’s Indoor Sports Center

Best Dog Park

Secret Garden

Best Children’s Camp

Miss Sandie’s School

Novato Gymnastics Center

College of Marin Marin Humane Mill Valley Dog Park

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Thank You. I wish to thank all of my patients who enabled me to be selected by the Pacific Sun in their Best of Marin program as the Best Primary Care Physician for the second year in a row. All of us—office manager, Judy; nurse practicioner, Debbie; office nurse, Lizzie, and most of all, I am grateful for the honor.

It’s been a privilege over my long career to participate in the Marin medical community and the patients we serve.

I currently am the chairman of the Department of Family Practices at Marin General Hospital.

In addition, I am proud to say that I am very involved with the Meritage Medical Network and currently I am running for re-election to their board of directors.

In these ways I am happy to give back the support that I have enjoyed from all of you for many years.

Barry Landfield, MD Best Primary Care Physician

900 SO. ELISEO DR. #202 | GREENBRAE, CA 94904 | (415) 461-3500

FAMILY Best Hobby Shop

Best Preschool

Gamescape North

Miss Sandie’s School

Best Kennel

Best Private School (K-12)

Alpha Dog

Best Pet Boutique

Mark Day School

Dogville

Best Public School (K-12)

Best Pet Day Care Camp K-9 of Marin

Hidden Valley Elementary School

Best Pet/Feed Store

Best Toy Store

Pet Food Express

Five Little Monkeys

Best Pet Groomer

Best Veterinary Services

Doggie Styles

Best Place for a Children’s Party

The Country Vet

Love2Dance

Thank you to all of our patients who nominated us for this great honor.

We love your smiles!

Roni Dawn Douglas, DDS

(415) 491-1662

General & cosmetic dentistry 920 northgate drive, suite 4, san rafael loveyoursmile.co

Receiving the award for Best Toy Store, Five Little Monkeys is the place to go for toys, books, puzzles and more for kids ages 1-13.

To all of our Doggie Styles “Family” Thank you for your support!

We are humbled by your continued confidence in us!

—from The Twins

401 Miller Ave, Ste E • Mill Valley 415.381.1777 • doggiestylesmarin.com

Camps, Classes, Workshops and more!

THANK YOU for Voting Us Best Public School!

The Place for Summer Fun!

www.love2dance.biz

Hidden Valley School 46 Green Valley Court . San Anselmo 415-454-7409

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BEST DOG GROOMER

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FAMILY That’s Adorbs For upscale, one of-a-kind outfits for toddlers through elementary school kids, Secret Garden, Marin’s Best Baby Gift Store, can’t be beat. Its convenient location in the Bon Air Shopping Center makes it a perfect spot for last-minute gifts. The adorable clothing lines have a European sensibility, and range in sizing from newborn up to about 12 years. Along with a great selection of clothes, there are also toys of all kinds—and plenty of room for the little ones to play while the adults shop. If you can’t find a size, the very helpful and knowledgeable owner can likely order it for you.—Tanya Henry 180 Bon Air Center, Greenbrae; 415.464.9294.

Twice as Nice Best Marriage & Family Therapist Alane Freund, LMFT

Heart and Mind

Lic. LMFT36077

EQUINE

25 years helping families & youth find solutions.

Experts in high sensitivity.

Woodacre/Fairfax, CA • 415-203-6600 • heartandmindequine.com

Congratulations Marin!

Thank you for supporting the longest serving arts & news weekly in America!

Anna Psaila, owner of this year’s Best Children’s Consignment Store, SeeSaw Children’s Consignment Shop, is a retail pro. She previously owned Stella’s with a family member, but is now on her own at this downtown San Anselmo spot that has housed numerous children’s stores over the years. Psaila has a keen eye for quality, and all of the consignment items are carefully selected and curated. Prices are reasonable, and typically there is a good range of items for newborns up to early teens. Everything from strollers, shoes, clothes, cribs and maternity wear can be found in the large space. It’s fun to browse, and you never know what you might find— even movies, costumes and books are on the shelves at this favorite spot.—T.H. 722 San Anselmo Ave., San Anselmo; 415.295.7979.

We are proud to be your paper!

A Parent’s Dream pacificsun.com

Not only is the Bay Area Discovery Museum a fun, hands-on place, but

Marin’s Best Children’s Museum is also in one of the most beautiful locations for a museum—ever.

How many museums have the iconic Golden Gate Bridge as a backdrop? With more than seven acres of interactive indoor and outdoor space, the museum offers plenty of diverse options for discovering, socializing and playing. Whether exploring the ever-popular shipwreck, playing in a water feature or doing indoor crafts, children are immersed in mind-opening experiences. Having this incredible resource in Sausalito has saved many a parent from going stir-crazy on rainy, cloudy days. Parents can sip lattes or chai from the latest incarnation of the snack bar, Bean Sprouts Café, which offers food that appeals to kids—but to big kids, too.—T.H. 557 McReynolds Rd., Sausalito; 415.339.3900.

Marin Lullaby Music-centric Terrapin Crossroads, owned by the Grateful Dead’s Phil Lesh, is surprisingly kid-friendly. So kid-friendly that it earns top prize for Best ChildFriendly Restaurant in Marin.

With multiple dining areas and an expansive outdoor Beach Park area, kids can happily eat pizza and run around to their hearts’ content.

The outdoor area is especially popular for party rentals, and the restaurant will take care of every detail. For the musically inclined, a Kids Campfire with S’mores and Songs is also a party theme option. Terrapin musicians lead songs around a campfire—and a dinner of grilled cheese, sliders and popcorn can be enjoyed right on the water. Lesh can often be found reading stories to kids and singing to the whole family. How cool is that?—T.H. 100 Yacht Club Dr., San Rafael; 415.524.2773.

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Thank You for Voting Us

BEST ANIMAL HOSPITAL

103 San Marin Drive, Novato | 415.892.8387 | sanmarinanimalhospital.com

Thank you

from s!

our heart good Inside and Out.

68 THROCKMORTON AVE | MILL VALLEY, CA 94941 | 415-888-8796

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FAMILY Canine Shrine It’s not uncommon to see the owner of Dogville walking dogs (lots of them) of many different shapes, colors and sizes. She clearly loves everything dog, and her sweet, small business on San Anselmo Avenue—voted Best Pet Boutique—is quite literally a shrine to all things canine. Just observe a dog with its owner en route to the store: The dog perks up and picks up its pace, knowing

Fun Fam

that it is soon to receive a biscuit-y treat or two. Collars, blankets, dishes, food and plenty of toys and treats are all on full display at this Disneyland for Dogs. And now, FaceTiming the owner to personally shop for your dog is possible. Yep—it’s a thing at this ‘happiest place on Earth for dogs.’—T.H. 554 San Anselmo Ave., San Anselmo; 415.454.2090.

WRITER’S PICKS

Marin-based Rick Hanson, Ph.D., is a well-known and respected psychologist, neuroscientist, Buddhist practitioner, teacher and New York Times best-selling author. His latest book, Resilient: How to Grow an Unshakeable Core of Calm, Strength, and Happiness, was co-written with his son, Forrest Hanson. I caught them at a book reading and signing at Copperfield’s Books in Petaluma, and they were adorable. It was like watching the “Rick and Forrest Show,” with plenty of helpful information, ad-libbing and good humor—a shining example of the Best Father and Son Collaboration. Although this is Rick’s fifth book, it’s the first one that Forrest has worked on, and watching them interact was a joy to behold. It was clear to the audience that writing and speaking about the book had turned into a precious bonding experience for both men.—L.O.

The Shuckery Seafood Restaurant Petaluma

rickhanson.net.

happiness from the inside out

Thank You for Voting for Us!

722 San Anselmo Ave 415-295-7979

Lily O’Brien

Best Children's Consignment Store San Anselmo seesaw4kids.com

Rick Hanson banters with his son Forrest; the two co-wrote the recently released book ‘Resilient.’

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May 12 • Sat • 7:30pm • Marin Center Auditorium

Deva Premal and Miten with Manose “Soul of Mantra Tour—Live” in Marin

The perfect pairing.

The perfect pairing.

May 17 • Thu • 8pm • Unity in Marin, Novato

FLOW - “The New Age Supergroup!”

Marin tour stop with Will Ackerman, Fiona Joy, Lawrence Blatt, Jeff Oster

May 18 • Fri • 8pm • Grace Cathedral, SF

Be In Grace: A Mindful Concert & Sound Healing Immersion feat. Jennifer Berezan, Linda Tillery, Gary Malkin, Jami Sieber, M. Koga+ May 25 • Fri • 8pm • Unity in Marin, Novato

Ma Muse “Prayers for Peace” CD Release Concert – Pure Delight

June 3 • Sun • 7 pm • Unity in Marin (Novato)

Jai Uttal “The Spirit Room”

An Intimate Solo Concert!

Join Jai in his “Mystic Living Room”

All Ages • 415.924.4848 • lloydbarde.com

MARIN’S

HAPPY HOUR SCENE

sales@pacificsun.com | 415.485.6700

PacificSun.com

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AVIcon

FITNESS & RECREATION H

ow spoiled are we to have Marin County’s gorgeous landscape at our fingertips for all things related to fun and exercise?

Rolling green hills for cycling, pristine beaches for walking and surfing, calm bays for kayaking, trails with epic views for hiking … the list goes on. On top of endless locales for outdoor play, there are impressive gyms, health clubs and yoga studios full of like-minded people who want to get in shape or find a quiet space in which to relax and meditate. And when it comes to finding new equipment for an active lifestyle, this place has it all. Highfive to all of you fellow adventurers.

Next time we exchange a smile out in nature, you’ll know how grateful I am to be here.—M.O.

Best Beach

Best Health Club

Stinson Beach

Body Kinetics

Best Bike Route/Trail

Best Hiking Trail

China Camp State Park

Dipsea

Best Bike Shop

Best Horseback Riding Company

Mike’s Bikes

Best Boating Company West Marine

Best Cycling Event Marin Century

Best Gym FITNESS SF

Five Brooks Ranch

Best Martial Arts School Marin Mixed Martial Arts

Best Outdoor Adventure Tour Sea Trek

Best Park/Open Space China Camp State Park

Best Personal Trainer Michael Krick, KrickFit

Best Pilates Studio Body Kinetics

Best Skate Shop Proof Lab

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FITNESS & RECREATION Best Snow Sports Shop

Outdoor Adventure

Any Mountain

Want to go on a great outdoor adventure but don’t know where to start? Or, even worse, know where you want to go and what you need, but all of the winter gear stores are closed for the season? No worries—Any Mountain, this year’s winner for Best Snow Sports Shop, is open yearround and is dedicated to helping you begin your outdoor journey. One of the biggest snow sports retailers with multiple shops in the Bay Area, Any Mountain’s inventory is unparalleled; from skiing and snowboarding to basic outdoor needs, this business has it all.

The store and its employees have a broad knowledge and passion for aiding in snow sports needs.

Employees also realize that proper fitting boots are a major key to a great, and safe, time on the slopes.

Any Mountain provides professional boot-fitters who are committed to making sure that feet are happy.

A full-service ski and snowboard repair station is located in every store as well, just in case your equipment experiences any hiccups.

Any Mountain also offers ski and snowboard rentals, at certain times of the year, for those with varying levels of experience. But no matter what a customer’s skill set is, Any Mountain employees will encourage one’s adventurous side.—Sierra Sorrentino

Best Sport Fishing Charter Company The Salty Lady

Best Surf Shop Proof Lab

Best Swimming Pool Osher Marin JCC

Best Tennis Club Mt. Tam Racquet Club

Best Water Sports Company 101 Surf Sports

Best Yoga Studio YogaWorks, Mill Valley

anymountain.net.

Sweat it Out If you’re yearning for a place to work that body of yours, there are lots of choices for how to do it at Body Kinetics, winner in two categories this year—Best Health Club and Best Pilates Studio. A family affair started by three brothers, John, Michael and Joey Hoeber, it offers a full calendar of classes at three locations in Marin.

Work on a rock-solid core at Pilates, dance your pounds off at Zumba or jump in the saddle for a cycling class.

No more excuses.—L.O. bodykinetics.com.

FITNESS & RECREATION Giddy Up Point Reyes National Seashore offers countless opportunities for hiking, but exploring the area’s natural beauty on horseback with Five Brooks Ranch, voted Marin’s Best Horseback Riding Company, opens up a whole new world. The ranch staff guides horseback riders through the 120-mile park to amazing views of mountaintops, meadows and beaches, and is committed to making the riding experience fun and comfortable—no matter one’s age or level of experience.

The friendly and open-minded dispositions of the staff come in handy with new, possibly nervous, riders. And Five Brooks Ranch even offers private rides that are great for birthday parties or romantic dates.

Need to board an equine friend?

The ranch covers that, too.—S.S. 8001 Shoreline Highway, Olema.

415.663.1570.

Family Legacy Founded as California’s first commercial sea kayaking business in 1982, Sea Trek has been giving water-lovers the chance to “get out there” for quite some time. The owners and professional guides of Marin’s Best Outdoor Adventure Tour offer kayak and paddleboarding trips in one of the most beautiful places in the world. The mom-andpop feel of the business adds to its appeal. The original owner’s son is the new head honcho, continuing the family legacy.

A popular destination is the water under and around the Golden Gate Bridge, but Sea Trek has been leading trips along the coast of Baja California for decades. And you don’t have to worry about bringing your own camping and boating gear, or packing food; the guides have you covered. If you prefer to get on the water without a planned itinerary, Sea Trek has single and double kayaks for rent.

Typically, Sea Trek guided tours are open to everyone, but the company also offers private tours perfect for a corporate bonding event or a cool and different party with friends. If you want to create your own custom trip, that’s an option as well. Just make sure to call and plan ahead.—S.S. 2100 Bridgeway, Sausalito.

415.332.8494.

Cast Away When it comes to water-related sports, Marin has it covered. And if your passion is fishing, no need to look any further than the Salty Lady, which hooked the title this year for Best Sport Fishing Company.

Let Captain Roger Thomas take you out on his large, comfortable 56-foot boat on the San Francisco Bay to hunt for aquatic creatures.

Everything you need for fishing is available for rent or sale, including rods, tackle and fishing licenses. You might even snag a large salmon, striped sea bass or halibut. And if fishing isn’t your cup of chowder, you can charter the Salty Lady for whale watching, sightseeing or funerals/burials at sea.—L.O. Clipper Yacht Harbor, 310 Harbor Dr., Sausalito; 415.674.3474.

Stoked on Spokes Since 1964, Mike’s Bikes’ mission statement has been “Promote the Stoke”; that is, provide and promote bicycles and cycling to as many people as possible throughout Marin and the Bay Area, and provide the best service possible to the diverse cycling community in Marin County and beyond. That’s surely the reason that Marin’s cyclists named it Best Bike Shop.

“We set ourselves apart from other bike shops,” says General Manager Sam Bolster, “with the customer service experience we provide for each customer.” He says that they do this by making sure

“Thank you for voting us best martial arts school in Marin” Professor Call (415) 456-1557

Mikyo Riggs Owner

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WE ARE THE BEST BECAUSE OF YOU!

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SEAPLANE TOURS

Come fly with us!

FITNESS & RECREATION

az, the he air! r t a c l A te, mt den Ga more, all fro l o G e See th skyline and ncisco a r F n a S

that customers always have the right gear, and advice for whatever bike they may be riding.

Mike’s is also known to volunteer with organizations such as the Norcal High School Cycling League, providing repair for their bicycle races. And when the Southern Marin Fire Protection District ran a donation drive for bicycles after the October fires, Mike’s Bikes was there to help transport donations across the Bay Area and make sure that they were in good repair.

The store started in Marin County in San Rafael, and has since

Skippy

expanded to 12 different locations around the Bay Area. According to Bolster, this has created a stigma against Mike’s Bikes as a large conglomerate store that pushes smaller mom-and-pop stores out of business, but he insists otherwise.

“We’re a bike shop just like everyone else,” he says. “Everybody wants to have fun, enjoy what they do and make sure that the customers who are coming in leave stoked.”—A.R. 836 Fourth St., San Rafael; 415.454.3747.

WRITER’S PICKS

Peter Van Camerik co-founded ArchRival Sports alongside Joel Fruchtman back in the ’70s. Forty-one years later, Van Camerik is still working at the Best Store For Making Feet Happy.

“We don’t sell just shoes here,” he says. “We sell the correct shoes. All of our people are trained to sell the right shoe to the right customer.”

New employees are extensively trained by veteran employees, not only about the ins and outs of different types of shoes, but also about the differences between people’s feet, and even about biomechanics.

On top of selling shoes, ArchRival gives back to the community in other small ways. Local teams at high schools get a 10 percent discount, and a newly implemented loyalty program honors new and returning customers.

According to Van Camerik, the best thing about working for the same store is seeing the same faces year after year. “It’s an ongoing generational thing here,” he says. “People pass it on from grandfather to father, and father to son. That’s why [we have] a very loyal customer base.”—A.R. Archrivalsports.com.

Deep Dive Marin County is not a good place for diving. Often times, the water is too murky or too rocky to make diving really enjoyable. However, Marin is a good place to learn how to dive, with several diving stores available to teach you everything you want to know about the sport. Marin Diving Center is the Best Place to Learn How to Wear a Rubber Suit.

Most of the training is done in the center’s extensive facilities, and when customers are comfortable with the procedures, they get hands-on experience diving in the ocean in Monterey.

Marin Diving Center’s founding can be traced back to the late 1960s, when diving as a sport was just taking off. “Lot of tradition, lot of experience,” says instructor Paul Maxwell.“We have been kind of a fixture here in the county for … well, I used to shop here with my dad as a kid.”—Alex Randolph 3765 Redwood Hwy., San Rafael; 415.479.4332.

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Yarko Malinova

FOOD & DRINK A

world-class food and drink scene: Just one more thing to love about Marin. From restaurants that offer dinner paired with a stunning view, to bars that serve rotating craft brews, to delis that know to hold the onions for you to farmers’ markets that carry the latest bounty from the fields, you really can’t go wrong when trying to satisfy your appetite. And if you ever find yourself slurping from oyster shells on Tomales Bay, or playing pool and trading stories with new friends at the county’s best dive bar, you’ll know that life is good.—M.O.

Best Bakery/Cafe

Best Breakfast

Best Business Lunch

Rustic Bakery

Comforts

Buckeye Roadhouse

Best Bar

Best Brew Pub

Best Butcher Shop

Bungalow 44

Best Bartender Niki Scioli, McInnis Park Club Restaurant

Best BBQ

Iron Springs Pub & Brewery

Best Brunch Half Day Cafe

Best Burger

Pig in a Pickle

Phyllis’ Giant Burgers

Best Beach Restaurant

Best Burrito

Sand Dollar Restaurant

High Tech Burrito

Belcampo

Best Cafe/Coffeehouse Equator Coffees & Teas

Best Caterer Stacy Scott Caterers

Best Cheese Shop Fisher's Cheese + Wine

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FOOD & DRINK Best Chef

Best Frozen Yogurt

Heidi Krahling, Insalata’s

Woody’s Yogurt Place

Best Chinese

Best Gluten-Free Menu Options

Lam’s Kitchen

Best Chocolatier Pick Me Up Chocolate

Best Cocktails Buckeye Roadhouse

Best Craft Brew Event Fairfax Brewfest

Best CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) Table Top Farm

Best Deli Louie’s Deli Café

Best Diner Shoreline Coffee Shop

Best Dining after 10pm Marin Joe’s

Best Dive Bar

Thank you Marin !

rustic bakery & cafe

Silver Peso

Best Farmers’ Market Marin Farmers’ Market

Best Food Truck novato on grant :: marin country mart larkspur on magnolia :: tiburon on the boardwalk ru s t i c b a k e ry . c o m

Johnny Doughnuts

Best French Left Bank Brasserie

Miracle Mile Café

Best Happy Hour Hilltop 1892

Best Ice Cream Fairfax Scoop

Best Indian Lotus Cuisine of India

Best Italian La Toscana

Best Japanese/Sushi Sushi Ran

Best Latin American Sol Food

Best Local Coffee Roaster Equator Coffees & Teas

Best Mediterranean Insalata’s

Best Mexican Saylor’s Restaurant and Bar

Best Micro-brew Marin Brewing Company

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Please enjoy our wines responsibly.

©2017 Sonoma-Cutrer Vineyards®, Windsor, Sonoma County, California USA Please enjoy our wines responsibly. ©2017 Sonoma- Cutrer Vineyards®, Windsor, Sonoma County, California USA

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Best Natural/ Sustainable Restaurant Cafe del Soul

Best New Restaurant (opened in 2017)

Best Sports Bar Flatiron

Best Spot to Dine Solo Marin Joe’s

Madcap

Best Tea Shop/Cafe

Best New Winery (less than one year)

Best Thai

Wu Wei Tea Temple

Backstage Winery

My Thai Restaurant

Best Outdoor Dining

Best Vegetarian

Sam’s Anchor Cafe

Cafe del Soul

Best Pizza

Best Vietnamese

Pizza Antica

Best Place for Oysters

Pho Viet Vietnamese Cuisine

The Marshall Store

Best Waterfront Restaurant

Best Restaurant

The Spinnaker

El Paseo

Best Restaurant with a View Hilltop 1892

Best Sandwich Shop Michael’s Sourdough

Best Seafood Fish Restaurant

Best Server

Best Wine Trek Winery

Best Wine Bar 123 Bolinas

Best Wine Event Tiburon Wine Festival

Best Wine List Incavo Wine Lounge & Collective

Ali Askin, McInnis Park Club Restaurant

Best Winetasting Room

Best Sommelier

Mantra Wines

Erick Hendricks, Hilltop 1892

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FOOD & DRINK

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Hats off to you for voting us “Best Sports Bar” in Marin!

724 B ST, SAN RAFAEL, CA 94901 | 415-453-4318 flatironsanrafael.com

FOOD & DRINK Aww, Shucks The Marshall Store is the perennial winner in the Best Place for Oysters category, for reasons that need not be explained. The bivalves are extraordinary, the view is out-of-thisworld and even though they call it a store, it’s a shack along Tomales Bay that can’t be beat, and probably never will. But this year’s award comes with some major sadness and poignancy, as Charles “Tod” Friend died on the bay last summer. He was the founder of Tomales Bay Oyster Company, from whence the Marshall Store draws its complement of raw and cooked oysters.

His two children run the Marshall Store, and they offered stories about Friend after his passing that revealed him to be pretty much a badass his whole life—smuggled pot, stole draft files during the Vietnam era, stuff like that. His death by drowning was as sudden as it was shocking, and serves to remind us all to enjoy each day as if it were our last.

Friend’s legacy along Tomales Bay provides an exquisite opportunity to do just that.—Tom Gogola 19225 State Route 1, Marshall.

415.663.1339.

Health Nuts Cafe del Soul takes honors for Best Vegetarian and Best Natural/ Sustainable Restaurant, and rightfully so—the two outlets in Mill Valley and San Rafael pump out soups, richly adorned veggie wraps, quinoa out the wazoo and too many salads to mention—and the nachos, which always feel a little decadent, are tons of fun to chow on with a group of gluten-wary pals. But here’s the thing, Cafe del Soul: By this time next year, you’re likely to have some competition, as the second scheduled Amy’s Drive Thru is being planned for the old Denny’s location in Corte Madera (the original is in Rohnert Park, and it rocks).

A healthy competition over the healthiest health food in Marin County can’t be a bad thing, and we’d love to see a drink-off between Cafe De Soul’s multiple (and blessedly affordable) juices and smoothies and Amy’s chocolate shake. Going in, I’m partial to the shake, but I bet that Passionate First Date smoothie on the Cafe de Soul menu gives the shake a run for its money.—T.G. cafedelsoul.net.

Gluten Be Gone Marin is a mecca for those seeking a healthy lifestyle. But eating out can be a challenge, especially if you’re allergic to or choose not to eat certain foods. Luckily, we have the Miracle Mile Café, chosen as this year’s eatery with the Best GlutenFree Menu Options. Miracle Mile’s breakfast menu offers scrambles and omelets with cage-free eggs or with non-GMO sprouted tofu, ground Peruvian flax seed pancakes and more. Lunch options include burgers and sandwiches served on Rudi’s gluten-free buns, salads and veggie soup. There’s also a kids’ menu and a selection of “regular” family favorites like eggs benedict, Belgian waffles, a classic BLT and grass-fed filet mignon. This place has it all, but goes the extra mile for vegetarians, vegans and gluten-free folks—L.O. 2130 Fourth St., San Rafael; 415.454.7700.

Foodie Fun Madcap, the foodie readers’ choice this year for Best New Restaurant, adds another feather to the upscaledining cap of Marin. Since opening the restaurant last year, Chef/Owner Ron Siegel (Michael Mina, Masa’s, Charles Nob Hill) has garnered praise from numerous publications, including a Zagat listing as one of the Bay Area’s Most Important Restaurant Openings of 2017.

Using organic and farm-raised products, Siegel serves up unusual

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• Dine-in & Patio Seating • Catering & Events • Rotating Craft Beers

• Open Daily 11-9 • Order Online • Fresh, Local Ingredients

Follow us on Instagram @piginapickle for specials Find our rotating craft beer menu on untappd

voted the best...

again!

5 8 8 B R I D G E WAY

415 . 3 3 2. 9 5 51

S C O M A S S AU S A L I TO.C O M

341 Corte Madera Town Center 415.891.3265 piginapickle.com

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Best bbQ!

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BEST NATURAL/SUSTAINABLE RESTAURANT & BEST VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT 2 LocATIoNS: 247 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley 1408 4th Street, San Rafael

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FOOD & DRINK appetizers like a lobster miso shot, rabbit tortelloni with black trumpet mushrooms and parmesan spuma, and entrees like celery root and mushroom ravioli with truffle broth and Stonington sea scallops with carrot puree, cauliflower and salsify. Desserts are rich and include a chef ’s tasting menu selection.

And of course, there’s a wellcurated wine list that also includes a variety of sakes. All of this can be enjoyed in an intimate, art-filled and casually elegant setting.—L.O. 198 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., San Anselmo; 415.453.9898.

Tea-riffic Although Marin is clearly hooked on coffee, with every town featuring at least one independent or chain coffee cafe, tea popularity is brewing in a big way. And that’s why this year we’ve added a new category to our Best of Marin list, Best Tea Shop/Cafe, which got snagged by Wu Wei Tea Temple in Fairfax.

This charming, cozy place offers a tea “bar” that serves up rare and small-batch tea choices like organic chrysanthemum flower, pu-erh mini tuocha, wild qiaomu shengpu and tulsi/holy basil tea. It also proudly features kava, a 3,000-year-old drink made from the kava plant that they

claim is a “wonderful alternative to alcohol,” due to its relaxing qualities.

World music, storytelling, open mics and tarot readings are featured on certain nights, so it’s a great place to go to slow down, sip and listen.—L.O. 1820 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., Fairfax; 415.516.2578.

Cheers Napa and Sonoma counties are well-known for their vineyards and wineries, but you don’t have to leave Marin to taste premium wines.

Novato’s newly opened Mantra Wines, voted the Best Winetasting Room this year, features more than 11 red, white and sparkling wines from three labels—Mantra, Mobius and Big Ridge—that can be sampled by the glass, bottle or flight. A family affair, Mantra is dedicated to producing the finest wines that “reflect the unique characteristics” that can only come from high-elevation vineyards.

Featuring a selection of tasty bites to go along with the wine, including a local cheese plate, honey, seasoned nuts, bruschetta with tomato, garlic and goat cheese and corned beef sliders, Mantra also offers live music on select nights.—L.O. 881 Grant Ave., Novato; 415.892.WINE.

Courtesy of Equator Coffees & Teas

Equator Coffees & Teas, a winner in two categories, was founded by Brooke McDonnell (left) and her partner Helen Russell.

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FOUR CONSECUTIVE YEARS! Thank you Marin!

THANK YOU

FOR VOTING US BEST BURGER IN MARIN YEAR AFTER YEAR! OVER 20 BURGERS TO CHOOSE FROM!

Stacy Scott The Art of Good Taste Fine Catering and Events

415-299-2503 •stacyscottcatering@gmail.com

We are Proud to Serve Niman Ranch Gourmet Natural Meats

Humanely Raised on more than 650 Susatinable U.S. Family Farms & Ranches No Antibiotics—EVER! • No Added Hormones—EVER! Fed All Vegetarian Feeds • Gluten-Free

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2202 Fourth Street SAN RAFAEL 415.456.0866

Mother’s

Stacy Scott The Art of Good Taste Fine Catering and Events 415-299-2503

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WRITER’S PICK

WRITER’S PICKS

Prison Cuisine I was listening to public radio KALW’s San Quentin Radio the other morning, and they were featuring a segment on San Quentin Inmate-Chef John “Yah-Yah” Parratt, considered by inmates to be the unofficial chef of San Quentin, a prison known for its endless outpourings of bland pancakes for the inmates. The segment made me hungry just listening to it. See, it’s all in the seasoning, says radio host Tommy Ross. You’ve got to cook it with your heart, Yah-Yah tells Ross, and he’s been cooking for seven years on a 23-year bid. The segment was so tasty and inviting, I went out and stole a car, because Yah-Yah’s cooking is the Best Culinary Reason to Commit a Nonviolent Felony.

Guilty! I’m guilty! Now when can I tuck into some of Yah-Yah’s Southern cooking, Mr. Judge? It was part of my plea deal.—T.G. kalw.org.

Arrangiarsi

Voted Best Sandwich Shop Thank You For Voting For Us! SAN RAFAEL | NOVATO 999 Andersen Drive #165 42 Digital Drive #8 415-485-0964 | 415-883-5110 michaelssourdough.com

When Matteo Troncone set out to celebrate the soul of Naples—its pizza—he figured, hey, I’ll make a movie about it and call it Arrangiarsi, which translates into “the art of making something out of nothing.” And that’s just what he delivered—something from nothing, after spending the better part of five years living in his van in furtive spots up and down the California Coast, as he scratched together the funds to travel back and forth to Italy. There, he filmed tomato growers in the shadow of Vesuvius, among numerous pizza-shop owners and street artists who are all steeped in the ethic of arrangiarsi, and even got a minute of FaceTime with Silvio Berlusconi, thanks to a forged press pass. ‘Arrangiarsi: Pizza . . . and the Art of Living’ is the Best Pizza Movie from a Mill Valley Guy who Lived in His Van for Five Years. It’s a total hoot, and after a few showings in West Marin, Troncone hit the road with his van and his decidedly indie labor of love.—T.G. arrangiarsifilm.com.

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KINDER. GREENER. HEALTHIER.

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The winner for Best Chinese is Lam’s Kitchen in Mill Valley, where diners can take their time and explore a massive and old-school menu of Chinese chow. You can’t beat Lam’s for a big Chinese supper with friends or family. They’ve got the orange chicken, the Mongolian beef, and it rates gourmet for sure.

But we still need the good and quick cheap Chinese food, and that’s where Hot Wok Chinese Food, the Best Cheap Chinese Food When You’ve Got Saturday Banking to Do, comes in. Saturdays for me can mean a late-morning drive from West Marin along Sir Francis Drake Boulevard to San Anselmo. I’m typically headed to Chase Bank to withdraw the rent, grab a Starbucks in the shopping center and then hit the Hot Wok. I try to resist the temptation and usually I fail, and will typically load up for a weekend-long lo mein binge to go along with whatever the latest Netflix binge happens to be.—T.G.

IL PRODU

C

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CAFÉ • TAKE-OUT • CATERING

FOOD & DRINK WRITER’S PICK

WRITER’S PICKS

Upgrade

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US “BEST OF MARIN” AND FOR ALL YOUR SUPPORT OVER THE PAST 32 YEARS!

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US Best Gluten-Free Menu Options

When Side Street Kitchen was the Pine Cone Diner, it was a great place to go to shake off the cobwebs over upper-tier diner fare that never cut corners and was always heaped on the plate with that particular brusque diner love. When the Pine Cone went under a couple years ago, fear took hold. Where can we bring him or her to talk things over? Where can we go to say, “Look, I think you’re really interesting but I’m not taking your kids this weekend so you can go to the casino with your girlfriends.”

Fortunately, the new owners left the built-in aesthetics, added colorful murals, and Side Street Kitchen continues to hew dinerstyle, even as the grub’s been upgraded. If there’s a siggie dish, it’s the rotisserie chicken. I was there with a friend last summer, a new friend and maybe more. But when she reached for my iced tea without asking, that was that. We all have our fussy spots, and that’s mine. Side Street Kitchen is the Best New Restaurant to Solidify a Platonic Relationship With a Woman Who Runs With the Wolves. You can touch my heart, but hands off my tea. Now we’re just friends, baby.—T.G. 60 4th St., Point Reyes Station. 415.663.0303.

The Baked Drake Defying the NIMBY neighbors and the law, the Drake, Marin’s Best Cannabis Restaurant, opened last year to much fanfare, offering a choice selection of cannabis-infused foods that all adhere to the West Marin farm-to-table mandate. Chef Vinnie Morlock has traveled the world cooking and jiving, and he brings it all home at the Drake, even if he has no permits and might wind up as Yah-Yah’s sous chef in San Quentin if word gets out. Shhhhhh.

Menu highlights include the Sour Diesel pork dumplings, the White Widow waffles and the Purple Kush kumquat loaf. The restaurant’s a bit hard to find, but worth the hassle. From 101, head west on Sir Francis Drake Boulevard until you see the sun glinting off Bob Weir’s solar panels, and take a left. Take another left, and then a left and still yet another left—you’re there. You’ll know you’re there when you’re there. On a recent visit, I sampled those luscious dumplings while a trio of West Marin ukulele misfits cranked out a version of Aerosmith’s “Dream On.” It’s the only song they know. Go figure.—T.G.

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Ken’s Carpets & Flooring

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Expert Advice ...

Execeptional Service!

1914 Fourth Street | San Rafael, CA 94901 415-454-5367 | www.KensCarpets.com

Celebrating 85 Years of Service

WE TAKE YOU SERIOUSLY!

A+ RATING

415.579.1741 • www.ongaroandsons.com

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5 Years in a Row!

Where great service meets great products

Where great service meets great products.

Five Years in a Row!

cromearchitecture.com

Corte Madera • 5784 Paradise Drive • 415.924.7321 Mill Valley • 338 Miller Avenue • 415.388.1086

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majivecka

home improvement M

arin County boasts some of the most beautiful homes in the Bay Area—and the world. Have you admired the places tucked into the Sausalito hills as you’re cruising in on the ferry? Have you stopped to smell the flowers surrounding the homes in lush Mill Valley? Yes—the homeowners deserve a pat on the back, but they may have gotten a little help from Marin’s stellar garden centers, architects, home organizers and landscape designers.

Thanks to the winners on the pages that follow, a high bar has been set for North Bay living.—M.O.

Best Appliance Repair Martin & Harris

Best Architect Crome Architecture

Best Carpet Cleaning Atlas Window & Carpet Cleaning

Best Carpeting/ Flooring Ken’s Carpets & Flooring

Best Cleaning Service Molly Maid of Marin

Best Computer Repair Service Northbay Computer

Best Contractor (commercial) Dan Young Construction Inc.

Best Contractor (residential) Tim Walsh Builders

Best Deck & Fencing Clough Construction

Best Electrician Norcal Divine Electric

Best Hauling 1-800-GOT-JUNK?

Best Home Furnishings Sunrise Home

Best Home Improvement Store Jackson’s Hardware

Best Home Organizer Changing Places

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HOME IMPROVEMENT Best Kitchen/Bath Remodeler Kitchens and More

Best Landscape Design Company Rayner Landscaping

Best Locksmith Transbay Security Upgrade your kitchen & save up to $1500* when you buy four GE Café™ Appliances

Best Moving & Storage Johnson & Daly

Best Nursery/Garden Center Upgrade kitchen & save Upgrade youryour kitchen & save * when you buy * when to $1500 up toup$1500 you buy ™ Appliances ™ Appliances GE Café four four GE Café

Sloat Garden Center

Best Paint Supplier Tamalpais Paint & Color

Best Painting Contractor

Best Plumber Ongaro and Sons

Best Real Estate Brokerage Bradley Real Estate

Best Roofer McLeran Roofing

Best Self-Storage Bellam Self Storage & Boxes

Best Solar Supplier SolarCraft

Best Tree Service TREEMASTERS

Best Window Cleaners Atlas Window & Carpet Cleaning

McCarthy Painting Co.

Buy 4 GE Café Appliances and get $500 TM

Plus get $500 with a Pro Range or Wall Oven/Cooktop Combination Plus an additional $500 when you add a built-in refrigerator *Via online or mail-in rebate. See rebate form for details and list of eligible models.

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Martin & Harris Appliances 2158 4th Street *Viaoronline or rebate. mail-inSee rebate.

See rebate forand details and list ofmodels. eligible models. www.martin-harris.com *Via mail-in rebate form for form details list of eligible Sanonline Rafael 415-454-2021 & Harris Appliances MartinMartin & Harris Appliances 2158 4th Street 2158 4th Street San Rafael San Rafael 415-454-2021 415-454-2021

At the ready to help turn dream kitchens and bathrooms into reality is Kitchens and More, Marin’s Best Kitchen/Bath Remodeler.

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HOME IMPROVEMENT

Family-owned Tamalpais Paint & Color, Marin’s Best Paint Supplier, offers brand-name paint and complimentary color matching.

Local Trust It’s refreshing to find a landscape company run by a “local guy.” Eric Rayner, president and founder of Rayner Landscaping, chosen as this year’s Best Landscape Design Company, fits that description. An avid gardener for 25 years, Rayner knows his stuff. He’s certified in water-efficient landscaping by the Marin Municipal Water District, and he’s also a semi-professional magician. Rayner’s supporters might even say that he performs magic on their outdoor spaces.

Rayner Landscaping services include choosing plants and flowers to beautify the outside areas of homes, and tasteful placement of fountains and lights for special effects.

Rayner personally oversees every project, and the company’s design philosophy is simple: They aim to translate desires and needs into a beautiful landscape plan.

—Lily O’Brien 19 Digital Dr., Suite U, Novato; 415.279.9661.

Lock it Up Transbay Security Service, this year’s favorite for Best Locksmith, can really help get you out of a jam.

In San Rafael since 1964, Transbay provides commercial, residential

and automotive security services all over Marin County, and mobile units are ready to come right to your door—or wherever you may be. If the fence around your estate is starting to crumble, Transbay can install a high-security system or an electronic and mechanical access system. And the company even carries a large selection of safes for stashing valuables and secret papers.

From installations and repairs to key duplication, Transbay is a one-stop destination for peace of mind.—L.O. 2018 Fourth St., San Rafael; 415.456.3860.

Gimme Shelter Those of us lucky enough to have a roof over our heads may think of a roof purely as a practical necessity, and not as a reflection of our personal taste. After all, a roof is a roof, is a roof, right? Well, not exactly. McLeran Roofing, Marin’s Best Roofer, shows us that there’s a lot more to roofing than one could ever imagine. Who knew that there were so many parts to a roof ?

If you speak roof fluently, terms like cornice, frieze board, joist and counterflashing should roll right off the tongue. The company, founded in 1929 by Charles McLeran, who passed his knowledge and expertise

2018

Thank you for voting us

Best Computer Repair Service

COMPUTER SUPPORT • BUSINESS SUPPORT • VIRUS REMOVAL • NETWORK DESIGN

We combine good old-fashioned service with cutting-edge know-how to get you up and running and keep you there.

4 CALIFORNIA AVENUE, SAN RAFAEL, CA 94901 451-456-6537 • WWW.NBC SYS.COM

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HOME IMPROVEMENT on to his son, Brian, prides itself on high-quality products. The attractive styles for tile roofs alone, with brand names like Capistrano, Malibu and Ponderosa, provide completely different but equally beautiful statements to top a house.—L.O. 1945 Francisco Blvd. E., #38, San Rafael; 415.456.7663.

Garden Glory Spring is here, and everything is blooming—time to fix up the garden! Questions about the types of plants to get, the kinds of tools needed and what plants will work best in what climate are welcomed with professionalism at Sloat

Garden Center. Family-owned for 60 years, it’s the pick this year for Best Nursery/Garden Center. With four locations in Marin (San Rafael, Mill Valley, Kentfield and Novato), you don’t have to go far to find one.

Succulents, flowers and trees are available, as well as unusual finds like summer chocolate mimosa, weeping Japanese maple and cotton candy hummingbird mint. Sloat also offers workshops and seminars that include “Make a Planter for Mom,” “Worms & Bugs!” and “Peppers 101.” If you need assistance, consultants will help design gardens and make custom planters.

—L.O. sloatgardens.com.

THANK YOU MARIN FOR VOTING US

BEST ROOFER, AGAIN!

NEW ROOFS • RE-ROOFS • REPAIRS • INSPECTIONS

Pleasing Customers in Marin and Beyond for over 80 Years

DEPENDABLE ROOFING SERVICES

Brian McLeran • Sara Lopez Contact us for a FREE Estimate: 415-456-ROOF www.mcleranroofing.com

Since 1987, TREEMASTERS, Marin’s Best Tree Service, has been providing tree assessment, pruning and removal services.

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arvitalyaa

romance W

e know what you’re thinking: “Romance?

Ewww!” But come on—anyone can find love in Marin … even if it’s just with that cocktail you’re clutching while you’re waiting to meet “the one.”

From romantic dining options, to sexy lingerie to a sex therapist who will help you find what you’ve been missing, Marin has you covered when it comes to hearts and kisses and holding hands and planning your wedding. And it doesn’t hurt that this place is overflowing with stunning backdrops for flirty adventures and heartfelt proposals.—M.O.

Best Boutique Hotel Panama Hotel & Restaurant

Best Couples Counseling Dr. Rick Scott

Best Erotica Store Pleasures of the Heart

Best Lingerie Shop Pleasures of the Heart

Best Place for Singles to Meet

Best Wedding Event Planner

Silver Peso

Stacey & Company

Best Romantic Dinner

Best Wedding Photographer

El Paseo

Best Sex Therapist Dr. Claudia Six

Best Staycation Cavallo Point

Lynn Bagley

Best Wedding Reception Venue Marin Art & Garden Center

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WRITER’S PICKS

Relaxing Romance

Dates can be intimidating, and first dates? An occasional nightmare.

Marin County has quite a few date night spots, but places that truly make people who met on apps and websites feel at ease are few and far between. Enter Joinery, a new-ish beer hall in Sausalito that’s casual but also oh-so-cool, the Best Place for a Stress-Free Date With a New Love Interest. One of the Bay Area’s hottest artists, Heather Day, painted the Joinery’s outstanding mural, and the menu is equally colorful and sensual; glistening rotisserie chicken (eating with your hands is supposed to be seductive), ‘dirty fries’ (enter joke here) and other dishes pair well with the drinks. Community tables outside offer views of sailboats and paddle-boarders cruising by. A perfect date spot is born.—F.T.

ROMANCE Peso Pick-up

Party Time

At times, it may seem as though Marin County is all about family life. Couples move here to have kids and stay here to raise them, happily rolling around town. What’s a single person to do?

Head to the Silver Peso, Larkspur’s best-kept non-secret and this year’s winner of the elusive Best Place for Singles to Meet category. The Silver Peso looks like a regular bar at first sight, but it’s really a mingling hub, powered by pool and shuffleboard, loud enough music and flattering lighting. Its divey atmosphere is liberating, and its liberal, all-welcome bar is intoxicating.—Flora Tsapovsky

Founded by entrepreneur Stacey Dillon, the San Anselmo-based event planning company Stacey & Company is surely responsible for some of the most adorable party gimmicks on your Instagram feed. Specializing in polished, chic celebrations for adults and kids, this year’s winner of the Best Wedding Event Planner award is a true multitasker. A casino-themed Bar Mitzvah?

A picturesque Cavallo Point wedding?

A fireman-inspired first birthday? All are doable, with matching stationery and stylish touches to boot.—F.T.

WRITER’S PICKS

300 Turney St., Sausalito; 415.766.8999.

Delicate Blooms No matter how advanced technology is and how prevalent dating apps are, a flower delivery is always romantic in that tried and trusted, never-gets-old way. Just imagine: You’re checking your emails, watching Love on Netflix and sorting your laundry at home, when suddenly an elegant box of flowers lands on your doorstep. Notice—not a bouquet in crinkly paper, but a decadent box, which allows the delicate blooms to remain long-stemmed until the very last moment. There’s nothing more romantic than a flower delivery, yet Matilda’s Magnolias, offering the Best Delivery of Locally Grown Flowers, somehow takes the whole affair to the next level.—F.T.

450 Magnolia Ave., Larkspur; 415.924.3448.

121 San Anselmo Ave., #2457, San Anselmo; 415.913.9229.

Natural Beauty

Dreamy Date

Express Yourself

‘Special’ and ‘magical’ are superlatives that wedding photographers often use, winking at our collective craving for unforgettable moments. Bolinas-based Lynn Bagley, this year’s Best Wedding Photographer, uses ‘honest’ as a key word, and really means it. No schmaltzy staging or cliché lighting here—just honestly beautiful imagery of loving couples and happy families. Bagley favors natural lighting and effortless situations to capture her Marin clients, making everyone look good—but mostly, letting them be themselves.—F.T.

A repeat winner for Best Romantic Dinner, El Paseo added a new element this year—chef Todd Shoberg, who took over the historic restaurant and transformed its kitchen entirely. Shoberg’s flavorful, adventurous menu is full of sexy hits, from the squid cooked in cast iron to the pork chop of your date’s dreams. Shoberg’s knack for fireroasting pairs nicely with the festive, medieval-esque interior.—F.T.

There’s something inevitably romantic about tango; we all know that it takes two to do it, but few other couples’ dances are as infused with passion.

Whether you’re in a relationship or looking for one, Alma del Tango, San Anselmo’s nonprofit Argentine tango school, is the Best Place to Get Inspired for Romance. Beginner and advanced classes are offered on a regular basis, and milonga, a slightly looser, flowing variation on tango, can also be experienced, along with workshops and themed seminars.—F.T.

415.847.1396; lynnbagley.com.

650.731.3012; matildasmagnolias.com.

167 Tunstead Ave., San Anselmo; 415.350.2593.

Score!

Shopping for anniversary-appropriate jewelry doesn’t have to be an intimidating, expensive affair. Lulu Designs Jewelry, which sells at many Bay Area jewelry stores, has a flagship shop in Sausalito. It’s the Best Place to Find the Right Ring or Necklace, and the whole task becomes an easy one. The nicest thing about Lulu Designs is the fact that the jewelry looks intricate and personal without wandering into the areas of ‘fancy’ and ‘special occasion.’ The current collection, with names like Asana and Mudra, is a study in everyday sophistication.—F.T.

17 Throckmorton Ave., Mill Valley; 415.388.0741.R’S PICKS

30 Princess St., Suite B, Sausalito; 415.339.8843.

Gateway to Love

Nancy Philo

The Panama Hotel & Restaurant, Marin’s Best Boutique Hotel, boasts a colorful courtyard, sunny balconies, live music in the cozy restaurant and more.

Marin County is full of magical little spots, but nothing tops Olema, a blink-and-you-miss-it town at the very end of Sr. Francis Drake Boulevard that has the Best Romantic Charm. What Olema lacks in mindblowing landmarks or photogenic vistas, it makes up for in historic buildings, quaint hideaways and picturesque businesses—from the lauded Sir and Star restaurant to the renovated Olema Inn. As a romantic destination, Olema offers the perfect day-to-night itinerary, and if you get lost and do nothing? Well, that’s even more romantic.—F.T. pointreyes.org.

THEATER

Two Paths ‘Eureka Day’ explores consensus and compromise

By Charles Brousse

J

onathan Spector’s Eureka Day, onstage at Berkeley’s Aurora Theatre, may not be a play for the ages, but it definitely is a play for the NOW. From the pioneers on, Americans have had to choose between two paths whose advocates claim lead to the common good. One is individualism—the belief that freedom is the ultimate socio-economic value, and the other is that communal interventions will produce better results. Efforts to bridge the two are the main focus of our politics on every level, right down to the governing boards of local community organizations like the school that is the setting for Spector’s play.

While the opposing positions may be clear-cut in theory, in practice they usually depend on the context of the argument and the personal agendas of the people on either side. Throw in democracy’s requirement of majority rule, and the resulting struggle to find consensus, or at least a workable compromise, can be ripe material for a perceptive satirist’s steely gaze.

Jonathan Spector is such an observer, and on the night I attended, he had the audience nodding with recognition at the similarity to their own experience one minute, then rocking with laughter at how unnecessary much of it seemed.

Eureka Day is being presented as part of Aurora’s new “Originate

+ Generate play development program,” (O+G). Unlike the Global Age Project that it replaces, O+G is more narrowly focused on assisting local playwrights to develop scripts that conform to the company’s mission and resources, including its limited playing space, and there is the expectation that some of the best will be candidates for full productions in a future season.

This local emphasis is apparent in the play’s opening scene. Eureka Day School, from which the play takes its title, is one of those highpriced private college preps that dot the Bay Area landscape. A fivemember executive committee of its parental governing board is meeting

NOW PLAYING: Eureka Day runs through May 13 at the Aurora Theatre, 2081 Addison St., Berkeley; 510/8434822; auroratheatre.org.

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David Allen

‘Eureka Day,’ currently onstage at Berkeley’s Aurora Theatre, is directed by Oakland-based playwright Jonathan Spector, a two-time Aurora Global Age Project winner.

in a room with large windows in the rear wall that reveal an expanse of water crossed by a distant bridge (scenic designer Richard Olmsted).

In other words, it’s familiar territory for almost all of us.

After a brief but hilarious discussion of how complicated student self-identification on their admission applications has become in an age when there are so many ethnic, gender and behavioral choices, the group gets down to business. There has been an outbreak of mumps in the region and since the disease can have serious consequences, should the school require students to be vaccinated against it and other ailments for which protection is available? Pro and con facts about the vaccine’s efficacy are bandied about, but it soon becomes apparent that scientific evidence is not the main issue. It’s that nasty individual rights vs. communal responsibility rivalry all over again, and neither side will give an inch. The former has a fiery spokesperson in Lisa Anne Porter as Suzanne, whose emotional rhetoric regarding her child’s unfortunate experience with forced vaccination nearly carries the day.

Rolf Saxon’s Don, the amiable school headmaster casually dressed in mustard colored shorts and a T-shirt, is a worthy opponent, especially when he has the backing of Eli (Teddy Spencer), one of the school’s big donors. Carina (Elizabeth Carter), the token person of color, is a fence sitter who ultimately drives a spike into Suzanne’s arguments. Meiko (Charisse Loriaux), is one half of an underwritten sub plot that involves her romantic relationship with the married Eli, but she does have a heartfelt monologue about how we humans have screwed up life on our poor planet. All in all, it’s an excellent ensemble, ably directed by Josh Costello.

Midway through the play, the meeting is opened to the community at large as an imaginary Facebook conference video, with a running series of viewers’ comments projected on screens located near the ceiling of the Aurora Theatre.

Their profanity-laden idiocy is very funny, but also a sad reminder of where public discourse is in today’s America.Y

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Sundial CALENDAR

THE WEEK’S EVENTS: A SELECTIVE GUIDE

SAN RAFAEL

Stories to Tell

For more than a half-century, author and editor Joyce Carol Oates has dominated the American literary scene. She’s written more than 40 novels and has enjoyed a long career as a professor at Princeton University. And she’s still as prolific as ever.

This week, Oates appears in Marin to share her latest short-story collection, Beautiful Days: Stories. Oates masterfully unveils intimate portraits of diverse and memorable characters when she reads from Beautiful Days on Friday, April 27, at Copperfield’s Books, 850 Fourth St., San Rafael. 7pm. Free admission; seating is first come, first served. 415.524.2800.

LARKSPUR

Landmark Film Based on the bestselling novel by Kent Nerburn, the 2017 Native American independent film Neither Wolf Nor Dog takes audiences on an eye-opening road trip through Lakota life and culture. The film stars Lakota elder Dave Bald Eagle, once considered “the world’s most interesting man” by NPR, who was 95 years old during filming and who passed away before its release. After playing at dozens of cinemas for the past year, Neither Wolf Nor Dog debuts in Marin with a weekend of screenings starting on Friday, April 27, at the Lark Theater, 549 Magnolia Ave., Larkspur. Fri., 6:30pm; Sat., 3:45pm; Sun., 10:30am. $5-$11. 415.924.5111.

SAUSALITO

Block Party Five years ago, three local brothers renovated a 100-year-old building in Sausalito and opened organic grocery store Driver’s Market. The store shares a passion for people and food with a selection of top quality products from local vendors and a consistent offering of community events. This week, Driver’s Market celebrates its fifth birthday with a massive block party that gathers together more than 20 small food producers for a smorgasbord of tastings, with games, music, kids’ activities and more on Saturday, April 28, on Turney Street between Bridgeway and Caledonia, Sausalito.

11am to 4pm. Free. 415.729.9582.

CORTE MADERA

Family Festival This weekend’s inaugural Playing 4 Peace festival promises an afternoon of fun for all ages, with local art, music and more on hand to promote community bonding.

Kids can enjoy a slew of noncompetitive games that encourage collaboration and creativity over winning and losing. Jazz bands, choirs and orchestras from local schools will perform, and arts and crafts from local artists and vendors will be on display and for sale. Get ready to play on Saturday, April 28, at Corte Madera Town Park, 498 Tamalpais Dr., Corte Madera. 11am to 4pm. Free admission. playing4peace.info.

—Charlie Swanson

Joyce Carol Oates

Sundial CALENDAR MARIN COUNTY Marin Symphony Superstar cellist, Grammy Award-winner and Marin Symphony artistic ambassador Zuill Bailey is the featured soloist in the Masterworks season finale, “Fantasy.” Apr 29, 3pm and May 1, 7:30pm. $20-$43 and up. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium, 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. marinsymphony.org.

Clubs & Venues MARIN COUNTY College of Marin James Dunn Theatre Apr 28, “Czech, Please!” with the College of Marin Symphony Orchestra. 835 College Ave, Kentfield. 415.485.9385.

Harmonia Apr 28, Chloe Jean. 2200 Marinship Way, Sausalito. 415.332.1432.

HopMonk Novato Apr 26, Country Line Dancing. Apr 27, Notorious. 224 Vintage Way, Novato.

415.892.6200.

Iron Springs Pub & Brewery May 2, Scott Guberman Band. 765 Center Blvd, Fairfax. 415.485.1005.

Key Tea Apr 28, Lucia Lilikoi. 921 C St, San Rafael.

808.428.3233.

L’Appart Resto Apr 26, Amanda Addleman and Lee Dynes.

636 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo.

415.256.9884.

Marin Country Mart Apr 27, 6pm, Friday Night Jazz with Charged Particles. Apr 29, 12:30pm, Folkish Festival with Joshua Smith. 2257 Larkspur Landing Circle, Larkspur. 415.461.5700.

19 Broadway Club Apr 25, Joe Gore with Teja Gerken and Erik Smyth. Apr 26, Metalachi and Aerocksmith. Apr 27, the Bad Thoughts with the Weissmen and Sunhunter. Apr 28, Michael LaMacchia’s New Music Foundation. Apr 29, 4pm, North Bay All-Stars. May 1, Blues Champions. May 2, Damon LeGall Band. 17 Broadway Blvd, Fairfax. 415.459.1091.

No Name Bar Apr 25, Jimi James Band. Apr 26, Felsen.

Apr 27, Michael Aragon Quartet. Apr 28, Chris Saunders Band. Apr 29, Timothy O & Co. Apr 30, Kimrea & the Dreamdogs. 757 Bridgeway, Sausalito. 415.332.1392.

Novato City Hall Apr 28, 6pm, Novato Live with Erin Honeywell. 901 Sherman Ave, Novato.

415.899.8900.

Osteria Divino Apr 26, Noah Frank Trio. Apr 27, Walter Earl Trio. Apr 28, Denise Perrier. Apr 29, Susana Pineda & the New Quartet. 37 Caledonia St, Sausalito. 415.331.9355.

Panama Hotel Restaurant Apr 25, Lorin Rowan. Apr 26, C-JAM with Connie Ducey. May 1, Swing Fever. May 2, Charlie Docherty. 4 Bayview St, San Rafael.

415.457.3993.

Papermill Creek Saloon Apr 27, 5pm, Danny Montana. Apr 27, 9pm, the Fairfax Social Club. Apr 28, 5pm, Kelly Peterson. Apr 28, 9pm, Highway Poets.

Apr 29, 3pm, Papermill Creek Saloon 50th anniversary with Sky Blue Band and Papermill Gang. 1 Castro, Forest Knolls.

415.488.9235.

Peri’s Silver Dollar Apr 26, Mark’s Jam Sammich. Apr 27, Sucker MCs. Apr 28, the Crooked Stuff. Apr 29, Chrissy Lynne and friends. 29 Broadway, Fairfax. 415.459.9910.

Rancho Nicasio Apr 27, the LoWatters. Apr 28, Maria Muldaur. Apr 29, 5pm, Leon Bristow and Freeway Frank Bohan. 1 Old Rancheria Rd, Nicasio. 415.662.2219.

Sausalito Seahorse Apr 26, KiANA and friends. Apr 28, Pizzicali.

Apr 29, 4pm, Vibrasion. 305 Harbor View Dr, Sausalito. 415.331.2899.

Smiley’s Schooner Saloon Apr 27, Sky Country. 41 Wharf Rd, Bolinas.

415.868.1311.

Station House Cafe Apr 29, 5pm, Left Coast Syncopators. 11180 State Route 1, Pt Reyes Station. 415.663.1515.

Sweetwater Music Hall Apr 25, Vieux Farka Touré acoustic.

Apr 26, Diego’s Umbrella and Fistful of Scandal. Apr 27, Harvey Mandel with Rudy Colombini & the Unauthorized Rolling Stones. Apr 28, Pink Talking Fish with Magic in the Other. Apr 29, Futurebirds and Whiskerman. Apr 30, Roots Of Creation. 19 Corte Madera Ave, Mill Valley.

415.388.3850.

Terrapin Crossroads Apr 26, Ross James & the Broken Kittens.

Apr 27, Top 40 Friday with Talley Up. Apr 28, Jeannette Ferber and friends. Apr 29, Jenny Kerr Band. Apr 30, Stu Allen and friends.

May 2, California Kind. 100 Yacht Club Dr, San Rafael. 415.524.2773.

Travis Marina Bar & Grill Apr 27, Lucky Drive. 1679 Sommerville Rd, Sausalito. 415.332.2319.

Trek Winery Apr 26, Chime Travelers. Apr 27, Todos Santos. 1026 Machin Ave, Novato.

415.899.9883.

Unity of Marin Apr 27-28, 8pm, “Feelin’ Good: A Celebration of Song” with Novato Music Association Chorus. 600 Palm Dr, Novato. 415.475.5000.

Art OPENING MARIN Dance Palace Apr 27-May 13, “12 x 12 Art Exhibit & Silent Auction,” bid on works from over 30 local artists to benefit the Dance Palace. 503 B St, Pt Reyes Station. 415.663.1075.

MarinMOCA Apr 28-Jun 2, “Altered Book Exhibit,” ninth annual fundraising show features 150 original book art objects, created by artists who combine provocative messages with inventive technique. Reception, Apr 28 at 5pm. 500 Palm Dr, Novato. Wed-Fri, 11 to 4; Sat-Sun, 11 to 5. 415.506.0137.

O’Hanlon Center for the Arts Apr 26-May 24, “Magic of Mirth,” juried group show features experimental works in search of the unexpected. Reception, May 1 at 5:30pm. 616 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. Tues-Sat, 10 to 2; also by appointment.

415.388.4331.

Throckmorton Theatre May 1-31, “Victoria Veedell & Carol Duchamp” the two artists share their vivid paintings through May. Reception, May 1 at 5:30pm. 142 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley.

415.383.9600.

Comedy 3 for All Popular improv trio creates hilarious scenes on the spot all weekend. Apr 27-29. $28-$43.

Throckmorton Theatre, 142 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.383.9600.

Tuesday Night Live See standup comedians Max Rosenblum, Steven Kravitz, Justin Lockwood and others. May 1, 8pm. $17-$27. Throckmorton Theatre, 142 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley.

415.383.9600.

Dance Key Tea Apr 27, 7:30pm, Sacred Dance Salon. 921 C St, San Rafael. 808.428.3233.

500 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo.

415.419.2577.

Driver’s Market 5th Birthday Block Party Event includes free tastings from small food producers, pie-baking contest, games, kids fun and music. Apr 28, 11am. Free.

Driver’s Market, 200 Caledonia St, Sausalito.

415.729.9582.

Guide Dogs for the Blind Graduation Ceremony Family fun abounds when guide dogs and those who raise them celebrate graduation.

Sat, Apr 28, 1:30pm. Guide Dogs for the Blind, 350 Los Ranchitos Rd, San Rafael.

415.499.4000.

Guiding Youth Through Music: Music for All Event features enriching performers from Lives Through Music and `Til Dawn in concert, with panel discussion and reception.

Apr 29, 2pm. Free. Angelico Hall, Dominican University, 50 Acacia Ave, San Rafael.

415.457.4440.

Marin Open Studios Preview Gala Celebrate the 25th anniversary of Marin Open Studios alongside art lovers, collectors and artists. Apr 28, 5pm. Free. Town Center Corte Madera, 100 Corte Madera Town Center, Corte Madera. 415.924.2961.

Playing 4 Peace Family festival aims to promote peace and strengthen community by offering noncompetitive, collaborative and creative games for children of all ages. Apr 28, 11am.

Corte Madera Town Park, 498 Tamalpais Dr, Corte Madera. 415.927.5072.

Slide Ranch Spring Fling Day-long celebration features guided hikes, workshops, live music and performances, arts and nature crafts, gardening activities, cooking activities, delicious food and more.

Apr 28, 10am. $30-$35; kids two and under are free. Slide Ranch, 2025 Shoreline Hwy, Muir Beach. 415.381.6155.

Sufi Women Organization Luncheon Diana Bishop, the first female chief of police in San Rafael offers a presentation on her career and how things have evolved for women in a male-dominated profession. Advanced registration required.

Apr 28, 11:30am. $35. The Club at McInnis Park, 350 Smith Ranch Rd, San Rafael.

415.472.6959.

San Anselmo Library Apr 30, 4pm, Learn to dance the Cha-Cha with Jasmine Worrell. 110 Tunstead Ave, San Anselmo. 415.258.4656.

Texas Hold’Em Fundraiser Two rotary clubs in Marin are having a high stakes card game fundraiser for a cleft palate surgery mission to Colombia. Buy-in includes dinner and drinks. Apr 29, 5pm. $100.

Marinwood Community Center, 775 Miller Creek Rd, San Rafael. 415.479.0775.

Events

Film

Bharat Event: ArtWorks for India Evening includes Indian paintings on display and for sale, benefiting the artists and their families, live music by Nilan Chaudhuri and Ali Akbar College of Music and Indian appetizers by Lotus Cuisine.

Apr 28, 6pm. Free admission. EV Lounge,

Art & Architecture in Cinema Series screens “Botticelli Inferno,” about how Dante’s vision of hell influenced European structures. Apr 28, 1pm. $10-$18.

Lark Theater, 549 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur.

415.924.5111.

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Concerts

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Lunch & Dinner Sat & Sun Brunch

Fireside Dining 7 Days a Week

Din ner & A Show Fri

Apr 27

The Lowatters

8:00 / No Cover Bluesiana Dance Party!

28 Apr Sat

Maria Muldaur

Apr 29 Leon Bristow & Sun

8:00

Rancho Debut!

Freeway Frank Bohan May 4 Robert M Powell & Friends Fri

(Zydeco Flames) 5:00 / No Cover 8:00 / No Cover

Haggards May 5 The From Buck Owens to Led Zeppelin!

Sat

8:30

May 12 King James Sat

Songs of James Taylor and Carole King 8:30

Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet 10-3pm Join us May 13th / 10am-3pm also serving Mother’s Day Dinner 5-8pm

Sampson Band May 19 Annie Rock, Blues, R&B 8:30 Sat

Fri May 25 & Sat May 26

Illeagles Weekend

Bay Area’s Premier Eagles Tribute 8:30 BBQs on the Lawn are Back!

Memorial Day Weekend

May 27 Pablo Cruise May 28 Wonderbread 5 Reservations Advised

415.662.2219

On the Town Square, Nicasio www.ranchonicasio.com

Thu 4/26 • Doors 7:30pm ⁄ $15-$20 • All Ages

Diego's Umbrella

Fistful of Scandal Fri 4/27 • Doors 7pm ⁄ $20-$25 • All Ages

Harvey Mandel

Rolling Stones guitarist on “Black & Blue' LP - performing with

Rudy Colombini & The Unauthorized Rolling Stones Sat 4/28 • Doors 8pm ⁄

18-$20 • All Ages Pink Talking Fish - A Fusion of Pink Floyd, Taking Heads and Phish with Magic in The Other Sun 4/29 • Doors 7pm ⁄

$

$

14-$17 • All Ages

Futurebirds Whiskerman

Mon 4/30 • Doors 7pm ⁄ $14-$17 • All Ages

Roots of Creation Grateful Dub 2018 Tour

with Scott Guberman Fri 5/4 • Doors 5:30pm KIDS SHOW / $15 All Ages Fri 5/4 • Doors 8pm ⁄ $27-$32 • 21+

Foreverland

An Electrifying 14-Piece Michael Jackson Tribute - “May the Fourth Be With You" TWO SHOWS www.sweetwatermusichall.com 19 Corte Madera Ave, Mill Valley Café 388-1700 | Box Office 388-3850

Grace Jones: Bloodlight & Bami Filmmaker Sophie Fiennes’ musical biography of the famed pop diva screens.

Apr 28, 8pm. Smith Rafael Film Center, 1118 Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.454.1222.

Lectures

Great White Hoax Marin City Health & Wellness Center presents Tim Wise’s documentary on American political leaders of both parties who tap into white anxiety. Apr 26, 6:30pm.

Smith Rafael Film Center, 1118 Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.454.1222.

Neither Wolf Nor Dog Independent Native American film starring elder Dave Bald Eagle, which has enjoyed the longest theatrical run of any US film released in 2017, comes to the North Bay for a limited run. Apr 27, 6:30pm. Lark Theater, 549 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur. 415.924.5111.

Tiburon International Film Festival The United Nations of film fests returns with selections from 27 countries as well as a Marin filmmakers program. Through Apr 27. Playhouse Theater, 40 Main St, Tiburon. tiburonfilmfestival.com.

Food & Drink

On Thursday, April 26, the Marin Museum of Bicycling will offer a lecture about the grasshooper bicycle races, celebrating 20 years in Northern California.

Eat My Heart Out Supperclub KWMR community radio’s fifth annual fundraising dinner party features special guests like actor David Strathairn telling stories that directly inspire a course of the meal. Apr 28, 6pm. $200. Peace Barn, 70 Olema Bolinas Rd, Bolinas. kwmr.org.

sanctuaries and more. Apr 25, 6:30pm. $10.

Marin Art & Garden Center, 30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Ross. 415.455.5260.

the San Francisco Bay Area” with Shanta Nimbark Sacharoff. 200 Caledonia St, Sausalito. 415.729.9582.

Farm Brunch at the Fork Casual brunch in a rustic setting features local ingredients. Apr 28, 11am. $75. The Fork, 14700 Hwy 1, Point Reyes Station.

800.591.6878.

Stem Cell Research Learn the current knowledge and future prospects of stem cells. May 2, 7pm. Outdoor Art Club, 1 W Blithedale Ave, Mill Valley.

415.383.2582.

Marin City Library Apr 28, 11:30am, “Enlightenism” with Brother Malcolm Kelly. 164 Donahue St, Marin City. 415.332.6157.

Halleck Vineyard Wine Dinner Winemaker Ross Halleck and chef Joshua Seibert team up to create an inspired fivecourse menu. Apr 26, 5:30pm. $195. Nick’s Cove, 23240 Hwy 1, Marshall. 415.663.1033.

Off the Grid Food Trucks Eat your way through the largest gathering of mobile food trucks in Marin, listen to live music and take in great views. Sun, 11am.

Marin Country Mart, 2257 Larkspur Landing Circle, Larkspur. 415.461.5700.

Lectures Grasshopper Adventure Cycling Learn about the unique grasshopper bicycle races, celebrating 20 years in Northern California, from creator Miguel Crawford.

Apr 26, 7pm. $5-$10. Marin Museum of Bicycling, 1966 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Fairfax. 415.450.8000.

Marin District Attorney Candidates Forum Meet the candidates and hear their position on a variety of issues. Apr 28, noon. Marin City Recreation Center, 630 Drake Blvd, Marin City. 415.332.1441.

Protecting our Oceans: Perils & Progress in California Program addresses threats to our oceans and solutions being implemented in California, focusing on ocean food webs, marine

Readings

Novato Copperfield’s Books Apr 28, 2pm, “City of Sharks” with Kelli Stanley. 999 Grant Ave, Novato.

415.763.3052.

Angelico Hall Apr 28, 8pm, “Fascism: A Warning” with Secretary Madeleine Albright. $40.

Dominican University, 50 Acacia Ave, San Rafael. 415.457.4440.

Rebound Bookstore Apr 25, 7pm, Hand to Mouth/ WORDS SPOKEN OUT, with teen writers and Marin poet laureate Rebecca Foust. 1611 Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.482.0550.

Book Passage Apr 25, 7pm, “Future Presence” with Peter Rubin. Apr 27, 7pm, “The Woman in the Window” with AJ Finn. Apr 28, 1pm, “To Play Again” with Carol Rosenberger. Apr 28, 4pm, “La Dolce Vita University” with Carla Gambescia. Apr 28, 7pm, “Boots on the Ground” with Elizabeth Partridge.

Apr 28, 7pm, “Cuban Flavor” with Liza Gershman. Apr 30, 7pm, “The Undertaker’s Daughter” with Sara Blaedel. 51 Tamal Vista Blvd, Corte Madera. 415.927.0960.

Book Passage By-the-Bay Apr 25, 6pm, “The Corporation” with TJ English. May 2, 6pm, “Spirit Photographer” with Jon Michael Varese. 100 Bay St, Sausalito. 415.339.1300.

College of Marin Library Apr 27, 1pm, “American Yellow” with George Omi. 835 College Ave, Kentfield.

415.485.9475.

Driver’s Market Apr 26, 7pm, “Other Avenues Are Possible: Legacy of the People’s Food System of

San Rafael Copperfield’s Books Apr 27, 7pm, “Beautiful Days: Stories” with Joyce Carol Oates. Apr 29, 2pm, “The Polar Adventures of a Rich American Dame” with Joanna Kafarowski. 850 Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.524.2800.

Theater The Fantasticks With the record for longest American theatrical run, the musical comes to Novato, a timeless classic presented in an inventive fashion. Through Apr 29. $12-$27. Novato Theater Company, 5240 Nave Dr, Novato.

415.883.4498.

Just My Type: The Musical Ross Valley Players present the engaging new musical comedy based on the Myer-Briggs Indicator personality test. Through Apr 29. $25. Barn Theatre, Marin Art and Garden Center, 30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Ross. rossvalleyplayers.com.

Seminars&Workshops To include your seminar or workshop, call 415.485.6700.

SINGLE MEN WANTED. Single & Dissatisfied?

Tired of spending weekends and holidays alone? Join with other single women to explore what’s blocking you from fulfillment in your relationships and learn how to manifest your dreams. Nine-week Single’s Group starts May 1.

Also, coed INTIMACY GROUPS, WOMEN’S GROUPS, and INDIVIDUAL and COUPLES sessions. Spacelimited. Advance sign-up required. Central San Rafael Victorian. For more information, call Renee Owen, LMFT #35255 at 415/453-8117.

Community Spanish Language Learning Center In Downtown San Rafael www.spanishindowntown sanrafael.com

Mind&Body

GARDENING/LANDSCAPING

GARDEN MAINTENANCE OSCAR 415-505-3606

YARDWORK LANDSCAPING

❖ General Yard & Firebreak Clean Up ❖ Complete Landscaping ❖ Irrigation Systems ❖ Commercial & Residential Maintenance ❖ Patios, Retaining Walls, Fences For Free Estimate Call Titus

415-380-8362

or visit our website www.yardworklandscaping.com

CA LIC # 898385

HYPNOTHERAPY Thea Donnelly, M.A. Hypnosis, Counseling, All Issues. 25 yrs. experience.

415-459-0449.

Home Services CLEANING SERVICES All Marin House Cleaning Licensed, Bonded, Insured.

Will do Windows. O’felia 415-717-7157.

FURNITURE DOCTOR Ph/Fax: 415-383-2697

Real Estate HOMES/CONDOS FOR SALE AFFORDABLE MARIN? I can show you 60 homes under $600,000. Call Cindy @ 415-902-2729.

Christine Champion, Broker.

Landscape & Gardening Services Yard Work Tree Trimming Maintenance & Hauling Concrete, Brick & Stonework Fencing & Decking Irrigation & Drainage

View Video on YouTube: “Landscaper in Marin County” youtu.be/ukzGo0iLwXg 415-927-3510

Employment Pacific Sun PT Admin Job Opening Part-Time general admin support up to 20 hours per week Must be detail oriented and efficient Office is central downtown San Rafael.

Email: Publisher@ PacificSun.com

Catch the Buzz!

Facebook.com/PacificSunNews

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT—File No: 2018-144170. The following individual(s) is (are) doing business: AD. PAINTING, 117 LANSDALE AVE., FAIRFAX, CA 94930: ANDREW DAVID DESCHLER, 117 LANSDALE AVE., FAIRFAX, CA 94930. The business is being conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL. Registrant is renewing filing with no changes and is transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed herein. This statement was filed with the County Clerk-Recorder of Marin County on MARCH 12, 2018.

(Publication Dates: April 4, 11, 18, 25 of 2018) FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT—File No: 2018-144276The following individual(s) is (are) doing business: ON BOARD EXPERIENTIAL, 85 LIBERTY SHIP WY, #114, SAUSALITO, CA 94965: OBE WORLDWIDE, LLC, 85 LIBERTY SHIP WY, #114, SAUSALITO, CA 94965.

The business is being conducted

by A LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIP. Registrant will begin transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed herein. This statement was filed with the County ClerkRecorder of Marin County on MARCH 23, 2018. (Publication Dates: April 4, 11, 18, 25 of 2018) FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT—File No: 2018-144167. The following individual(s) is (are) doing business: 01 NEW CHINA VILLA RESTAURANT,

340 SIR FRANCIS DRAKE BLVD, SAN ANSELMO, CA 94960: HUIPING LEI, 1764 SUNNYDALE AVE., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94134. The business is being conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL. Registrant will begin transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed herein. This statement was filed with the County Clerk-Recorder of Marin County on MARCH 12, 2018.

(Publication Dates: April 4, 11, 18, 25 of 2018) FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT—File No: 2018144071. The following individual(s) is (are) doing business: CARAGENTS, 523 4TH ST. #226, SAN RAFAEL, CA 94901: AMIR MIRZAZADEH, 523 4TH ST. #226, SAN RAFAEL, CA 94901. The business is being conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL. Registrant will begin transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed herein.

This statement was filed with the County Clerk-Recorder of Marin County on FEB 27, 2018.

(Publication Dates: April 4, 11, 18, 25 of 2018) FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT—File No: 2018144264. The following individual(s) is (are) doing business: SK8 GYM, 420 MADRONE AVENUE, LARKSPUR, CA 94939: MARKO KOSTA, 420 MADRONE AVENUE, LARKSPUR, CA 94937. The business is being conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL. Registrant will begin transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed herein. This statement was filed with the County Clerk-Recorder of Marin County

on MAR 22, 2018. (Publication Dates: April 4, 11, 18, 25 of 2018) FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT— File No: 2018144158. The following individual(s) is (are) doing business: CELADON INCORPORATED, 58 PAUL DRIVE, STE D., SAN RAFAEL, CA 94903: RETZLAFF INCORPORATED, 58 PAUL DRIVE, STE D., SAN RAFAEL, CA 94903. The business is being conducted by A CORPORATION. Registrant is renewing filing with changes and is transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed herein. This statement was filed with the County Clerk-Recorder of Marin County on MAR 09, 2018. (Publication Dates: April 4, 11, 18, 25 of 2018) FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT—File No: 2018144314. The following individual(s) is (are) doing business: ALL FORMAL, 5800 NORTHGATE DR., STE #80, SAN RAFAEL, CA 94903: JENNIFER RAMOS WILLIS, 1201 GLEN COVE PKWY., STE #1508, VALLEJO, CA 94591-7177. The business is being conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL. Registrant will begin transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed herein. This statement was filed with the County ClerkRecorder of Marin County on MARCH 29, 2018. (Publication Dates: April 11, 18, 25, MAY 02 of 2018) FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT—File No: 2018-144179. The following individual(s) is (are) doing business: MARIN WALKIES,

Trivia answers «8 1 San Luis Obispo; San Juan Capistrano; San Juan Bautista 2 Tequila 3 The Lufthansa Group 4 Junio and Julio 5 Two; one 6 Abigail Adams ( John/John

b. Boston and Chicago. Thanks for the question to Michael Vogel from Mill Valley.

8

With the swing of an imaginary golf club

Quincy); Barbara Bush (George/ George W.)

9 St. Petersburg 10a. Compass b. Trespass c. Overpass

7a.

BONUS ANSWER: Curling

London

81 PA CI FI C S U N | A P R I L 2 5 - M AY 1 , 2 0 1 8 | PACI FI CSUN.CO M

To place an ad: email legals@pacificsun.com or fax: 415.485.6226. No walk-ins please. All submissions must include a phone number and email. Ad deadline is Thursday, noon to be included in the following Wednesday print edition.

PACI FI C SUN | A P R I L 2 5 - M AY 1 , 2 0 1 8 | PA CI FI CS U N. COM

82

PublicNotices 17 TAYLOR DR., FAIRFAX, CA 94930: CLAUDIA ALEXANDER, 17 TAYLOR DR., FAIRFAX, CA 94930: CHRISTOPHER ALEXANDER, 17 TAYLOR DR., FAIRFAX, CA 94930. The business is being conducted by A MARRIED COUPLE. Registration expired more than 40 days ago and is renewing under the fictitious business name(s) listed herein. This statement was filed with the County Clerk-Recorder of Marin County on MARCH 13, 2018. (Publication Dates: April 11, 18, 25, MAY 02 of 2018) FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT—File No: 2018-144394. The following individual(s) is (are) doing business: ELEVENT PROJECT MANAGEMENT/ ELEVENT/ELEVENT DEVELOPMENT/ELEVENT PROJECT MANAGEMENT, LLC, 72 OAKMONT AVENUE, SAN RAFAEL, CA 94901. The business is being conducted

by A LIMITED LIABILITY CORPORATION. Registrant will begin transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed herein. This statement was filed with the County Clerk-Recorder of Marin County on April 10, 2018. (Publication Dates: April 18, 25, MAY 02, 09 of 2018) FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT—File No: 2018-144280. The following individual(s) is (are) doing business: VITAL SOLUTIONS, IV, INC., 351 MAGELLAN AVE., SAN FRANCISCO, CA.: VITAL SOLUTIONS, IV, INC., 351 MAGELLAN AVE., SAN FRANCISCO, CA. The business is being conducted by A CORPORATION. Registrant is renewing filing with changes and is transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed herein. This statement was filed with the County Clerk-Recorder of Marin County on March 26, 2018. (Publication Dates: April 18, 25, MAY 02, 09 of 2018) FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT— File No: 2018144213. The following individual(s) is (are) doing business: LEWIS-HALL COMPANY, 81 SIR FRANCIS DRAKE BLVD., SAN ANSELMO, CA 94960: HAROLD SHERLEY, 81 SIR FRANCIS DRAKE BLVD., SAN ANSELMO, CA 94960 . The business is being conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL. Registration expired more than 40 days ago and is renewing under the fictitious business name(s) listed herein. This statement was filed with the County Clerk-Recorder of Marin County on MARCH 15, 2018. (Publication Dates: April 18, 25, MAY 02, 09 of 2018)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT—File No: 2018-143971. The following individual(s) is (are) doing business: MARINA GARDENS, 137 CANAL ST., SAN RAFAEL, CA 94901: FREDERICK T. USHER, 137 CANAL ST., SAN RAFAEL, CA 94901. The business is being conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL. Registration expired more than 40 days ago and is renewing under the fictitious business name(s) listed herein. This statement was filed with the County Clerk-Recorder of Marin County on Feb 14, 2018. (Publication Dates: April 25, MAY 02, 09, 16 of 2018) FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT—File No: 2018-144359. The following individual(s) is (are) doing business: K BY K, 40 STASIA DRIVE, NOVATO, CA 94947: ERIKA KNUTSON, 40 STASIA DRIVE, NOVATO, CA 94947. The business is being conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL. Registrant is renewing with changes under the fictitious business name(s) listed herein. This statement was filed with the County Clerk-Recorder of Marin County on April 04, 2018. (Publication Dates: April 25, MAY 02, 09, 16 of 2018) FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT—File No: 2018-144337. The following individual(s) is (are) doing business: SIMONE MARA CONSULTING, 548 WHITEWOOD DR., SAN RAFAEL, CA 94903: ALAINA YOAKUM, 548 WHITEWOOD DR., SAN RAFAEL, CA 94903.

The business is being conducted

by AN INDIVIDUAL. Registrant will begin transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed herein. This statement was filed with the County Clerk-Recorder of Marin County on April 02, 2018. (Publication Dates: April 25, MAY 02, 09, 16 of 2018) FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT—File No: 2018-144467. The following individual(s) is (are) doing business: RADIANT FOODS, 314 BAYVIEW ST., SAN RAFAEL, CA 94901: MARIN NATURAL FOODS LLC., 314 BAYVIEW ST., SAN RAFAEL, CA 94901. The business is being conducted by A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. Registrant will begin transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed herein.

This statement was filed with the County Clerk-Recorder of Marin County on April 19, 2018.

(Publication Dates: April 25, MAY 02, 09, 16 of 2018) FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT—File No:

2018-144279. The following individual(s) is (are) doing business: DECO PAINTING COMPANY, 55 NORTH AVE., APT 3D, SAN RAFAEL, CA 94903: BRUNO ALBUQUERQUE TRAJANO, 55 NORTH AVE., APT 3D, SAN RAFAEL, CA 94903. The business is being conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL. Registrant will begin transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed herein. This statement was filed with the County ClerkRecorder of Marin County on March 23, 2018. (Publication Dates: April 25, MAY 02, 09, 16 of 2018)

OTHER NOTICES NOTICE TO CREDITORS SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL) CASE NUMBER: SC 125882 NOTICE TO CROSS DEFENDANT: Global Funding (AVISO AL DEMANDADO) JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., et al. Cross Complainant YOU ARE BEING SUED BY CROSS-COMPLAINANT: JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., (LO ESTA DEMANDANDO EL DEMANDANTE): Global Funding, an unknown entity: NOTICE! You have been sued.

The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below.You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case.

There may be a court form that you can use for your response.

You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online SelfHelp Center ([ http://www. courtinfo.ca.gov/self help)should ]www.courtinfo.ca.gov/self help) should be, your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court.

There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Web site ([ http:// www.lawhelpcalifornia.org ] www.lawhelpcalifornia.org, the

California Courts Online SelfHelp Center (www.courtinfo. ca.gov/self help), or by contacting your local court or county bar association. NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case. The court’s lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case. Tiene 30 DIAS DE CALENDARIO despues de que le entreguen esta citacion y papeles legales para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copia at demandante. Una carta o una llamada telefonica no to protegen. Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estar en formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte. Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta. Puede encontrar estos formularios de la corte y mas informacion en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (http:// www.sucorte.ca.gov), en la biblioteca de leyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede mas cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentacion, pida al secretario de la corte que le de un formulario de exencion de pago de cuotas.

Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede perder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podra quitar su sueldo, dinero y bienes sin mas advertencia Hay otros requisitos legales. Es recomendable que llame a un abogado inmediatamente. Si no conoce a un abogado, puede llamar (a un servicio de remission a abogados. Si no puede pagar a un abogado, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legales gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de lucro. Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services, ([ http://www. lawhelpcalifornia.org ]www. lawhelpcalifornia.org), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, ([ http://www. courtinfo.ca.gov/self help/ espanol/ ]www.courtinfo. ca.gov/self help/espanol/) o poniendose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de abogados locales. AVISO: Por ley, la corte tien derecho a reclamar las cuotas y los costos exentos por imponer un gravamen sobre cualquier recuperacion de $10,000 o mas de valor recibida mediante un acuerdo o una concesion de arbitraje en un caso de derecho civil, Tiene que pagar el gravamen de la corte antes que la corte pueda desechar el caso. The name and address of the court is: (El nombre y dirección de la corte es): Los Angeles County Superior Court, Santa Monica

Courthouse. 1725 Main Street, Santa Monica, Ca 90401. The name, address, and telephone number of Defendant’s attorney, or Defendant without an attorney, is: (El nombre, la dirección y el número de teléfono del abogado del DEMANDADO, o del DEMANDADO que no tiene abogado, es): Ashley Fickel(SBN 237111) / Christopher Lee (SBN 280738) DYKEMA GOSSETT LLP, 333 South Grand Avenue, Suite 2100, Los Angeles, CA 90071. DATE: Feb. 28, 2018 Jacqueline Morgan, Deputy Sherri R. Carter, Executive Officer and Clerk Mitchell L. Beckloff, Judge of the Superior Court.Publish in Pacific Sun (Publication Dates: April 04, 11, 18, 25 of 2018) NOTICE OF PETITION FOR REMOVAL OF REPRESENTATIVE AND SUSPENSION OF POWERS PENDING HEARING in the estate of Decedent Roland William Hinners. CASE NO. PES-14-297695. To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both of decedent: Roland William Hinners.

A Petition for Removal of Representative and Suspension of Powers Pending Hearing has been filed by: Bonny Hinners-Krucik, Co-executor, in the Superior Court of California, County of: SAN FRANCISCO. The Petition for Removal of Representative and Suspension of Powers Pending Hearing requests that: Billy R. Hinners, Co-executor, of SAN FRANCISCO County is cited and required to appear at a hearing in this court as follows: NOV 15, 2017 at 9 a.m. in Dept. 204, located at 400 MCALISTER STREET, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94102.

Date of filing: NOV 13, 2017.

(Publication Dates: April 18, 25, May 2, 9 of 2018) ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME: SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA FOR THE COUNTY OF MARIN. No: CIV 1801142. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner PHYLLIS WHITE LUCAS-HADDOW filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PHYLLIS WHITE LUCASHADDOW to PHYLLIS WHITE ANDERSON. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should

not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: 05/21/2018 AT 09:00 AM, DEPT E, Superior Court of California, County of Marin, 3501 Civic Center Drive, San Rafael, CA 94913. A copy of this ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county of Marin: PACIFIC SUN. Date of filing: APRIL 05, 2018 (Publication Dates: April 25, MAY 02, 09, 16 of 2018) ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME: SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA FOR THE COUNTY OF MARIN. No: CIV 1801196. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner REILLY AMBER HUGHES filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: REILLY AMBER HUGHES TO REILLY TORI AMBER. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted.

Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: 06/06/2018 AT 09:00 AM, DEPT E, ROOM E, Superior Court of California, County of Marin, 3501 Civic Center Drive, San Rafael, CA 94913. A copy of this ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county of Marin: PACIFIC SUN. Date of filing: APRIL 10, 2018 (Publication Dates: April 18, 25, MAY 02, 09 of 2018)

By Amy Alkon

Q:

I hate to be trite, but my wife and I are experiencing “lesbian bed death.” We’ve been happily married for three years. I’m not sure why we’re not having sex. Sure, we’re both busy, but it’s more a question of just not ever feeling the urge. I know sex is important for a relationship, and I’m worried. Is there a way to reboot our sex life?—Bedfriends

A:

It’s understandably depressing if the only time there’s heavy breathing in the bedroom is when you’re re-enacting WrestleMania XXV—that is, trying to get the duvet cover on.

This doesn’t mean that you should buy into the lesbo-bashing notion of “lesbian bed death”—the myth that lesbian relationships, in particular, are where sex goes to die. The term traces back to a finding from social psychologist Philip Blumstein and sociologist Pepper Schwartz, published in their 1983 book, American Couples: Money, Work, Sex. Blumstein and Schwartz, reviewing results from their survey of 12,000 American couples, announced that lesbians in relationships “have sex less frequently by far than any other type of couple.”

This single survey led to decades of sneering about lesbian relationships as the province of hot hand-holding. However, psychologist Suzanne Iasenza notes that a bunch of subsequent studies found that lesbians tend to be more sexually assertive and sexually satisfied than straight ladies—as well as less orgasm-challenged.

The real issue is not being a lesbian, but being a woman in a long-term partnership—and the assumption that male sexual response, driven by spontaneously occurring lust, should be considered the norm for women.

Sex researcher Rosemary Basson, M.D., finds that when a relationship is brandnew, or when women are apart from their partners for days or weeks, they’re likely to experience the “spontaneous sexual hunger” that men tend to have.

However, once a relationship has been going for a while, women’s sexual desire becomes “responsive.” It isn’t gone; it’s just hibernating.

Chances are, a reason that straight couples might have more sex is that men are more likely to initiate. You and your wife need to initiate—and maybe even schedule sex dates so initiating doesn’t become yet another thing that falls off your to-do list. Eventually, when you light a bunch of candles to set the mood, your wife’s response should be something a little more erotic than, “You gotta be kidding me. Another squirrel fried on the power line?”

Q:

I’m addicted to my phone—Twitter, Instagram, news, texts … you name it. My girlfriend feels disrespected and unheard when I look at it while she’s talking, but I can’t seem to stop. Please help me out before I lose the woman I love!—Addicted

A:

If your smartphone were actually smart, it would ping you to listen to your girlfriend before she’s your ex-girlfriend trash-talking you in a bar.

Instead, smartphones and apps turn us into lab rats ferociously hitting the touch screen for another hit of techno-crack. They do this through what psychologists call “intermittent reinforcement”—“rewards” that come randomly and unpredictably. Checking your phone sometimes “rewards” you with a new message or newsbit—sometimes, but not always. When “rewards” come regularly and reliably—like when a rat pushes a bar and gets a food pellet every time—the rat chills out and only presses when, say, his stomach rings the dinner bell. Unpredictable rewards, on the other hand—only sometimes getting a hit—drive the rats to pump the bar incessantly, sometimes even till the little fellers go claws up.

However, there is hope for you—and your relationship—thanks to research on habit formation. Repeatedly behaving differently when your girlfriend’s talking to you—by turning your phone totally off—can eventually change your default behavior from robotically checking your phone to attentiveness to those important to you.

In time, you might expand your attentiveness into other areas of your life. A good test for whether it’s OK to be all up in your phone is swapping in its low-tech counterpart. For example, when the highway patrolman strides over and taps on your car window, is that really the best time to pick up that Stephen King novel and read the end of chapter four?Y Worship the goddess—or sacrifice her at the altar at adviceamy@aol.com.

Astrology

For the week of April 25

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Imagine that

you’re one of four porcupines caught in frigid weather. To keep warm, you all have the urge to huddle together and pool your body heat. But whenever you try to get close, you prick each other with your quills. The only solution to that problem is to move away from each other, even though it means that you can’t quell your chill as well. This scenario was used by psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud as a parable for the human dilemma. We want to be intimate with each other, Freud said, but we hurt each other when we try. The oft-chosen solution is to be partially intimate: Not as close as we would like to be, but only as much as we can bear. Now everything I just said, Aries, is a preface for better news: In the coming weeks, neither your own quills nor those of the people you care about will be as sharp or as long as usual.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): The Simpsons

is the longest-running American TV sitcom and animated series. But it had a rough start. In the fall of 1989, when producers staged a private pre-release screening of the first episode, they realized that the animation was mediocre. They worked hard to redo it, replacing 70 percent of the original content. After that slow start, the process got easier and the results got better. When the program completes its 30th season in 2019, it will have aired 669 episodes. I don’t know if your own burgeoning project will ultimately have as enduring a presence, Taurus, but I’m pretty sure that, like The Simpsons, it will eventually become better than it is in the early going. Stick with it.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): The coming

weeks might be an interesting time to resurrect a frustrated dream that you abandoned in a wasteland, rescue and restore a moldering treasure you stopped taking care of a while back or revive a faltering commitment you’ve been ignoring for reasons that aren’t very high-minded. Is there a secret joy you’ve been denying yourself without good cause? Renew your relationship with it. Is there a rough prize you received before you were ready to make smart use of it? Maybe you’re finally ready. Are you brave enough to dismantle a bad habit that hampers your selfmastery? I suspect that you are.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): The Hollywood film industry relies heavily on recycled ideas. In 2014, for example, only one of the 10 top-grossing movies—Interstellar—was not a sequel, remake, reboot or episode in a franchise. In the coming weeks and months, Cancerian, you’ll generate maximum health and wisdom for yourself by being more like Interstellar than like The Amazing Spider-Man 2, Transformers: Age of Extinction, X-Men: Days of Future Past and the six other top-10 rehashes of 2014. Be original!

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Long ago, in the land we now call Italy, humans regarded Mars, the Roman god of war, as the divine protector of fields. He was the fertility god who ripened the food crops.

Farmers said prayers to him before planting seeds, asking for his blessings. But as the Roman Empire arose, and warriors began to outnumber farmers, the deity who once served as a kind benefactor evolved into a militant champion, even a fierce and belligerent conqueror. In accordance with current astrological omens, Leo, I encourage you to evolve in the opposite direction. Now is an excellent time to transmute aggressiveness and combativeness into fecundity and tenderness.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): You sometimes get superstitious when life is going well. You worry about growing overconfident. You’re afraid that if you enjoy yourself too much, you will anger the gods and jinx your good fortune. Is any of that noise clouding your mood these days? I hope not; it shouldn’t be. The truth, as I see it, is that your intuition is extra-strong and your decision-making is especially adroit. More luck than usual is flowing in your vicinity, and you have an enhanced knack for capitalizing on it. In my estimation, therefore, the coming weeks will be a favorable time to build up your hunger for vivid adventures and bring

By Rob Brezsny

your fantasies at least one step closer to becoming concrete realities. Whisper the following to yourself as you drop off to sleep each night: “I will allow myself to think bigger and bolder than usual.”

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): The bad news is that 60 percent of Nevada’s Lake Mead has dried up. The good news—at least for historians, tourists and hikers—is that the Old West town of St. Thomas has re-emerged. It had sunk beneath the water in 1936, when the government built the dam that created the lake. But as the lake has shrunk in recent years, old buildings and roads have reappeared. I foresee a comparable resurfacing in your life, Libra: The return of a lost resource or vanished possibility or departed influence.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): I hope the next seven weeks will be a time of renaissance for your most engaging alliances. The astrological omens suggest that it can be. Would you like to take advantage of this cosmic invitation? If so, try the following strategies: 1. Arrange for you and each of your close companions to relive the time when you first met. Recall and revitalize the dispensation that originally brought you together. 2. Talk about the influences that you’ve had on each other and the ways your relationship has evolved. 3. Fantasize about the inspirations and help that you’d like to offer each other in the future. 4. Brainstorm about the benefits that your connection has provided and will provide for the rest of the world.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Now is one of the rare times when you should be alert for the potential downsides of blessings that usually sustain you. Even the best things in life could require adjustments. Even your most enlightened attitudes and mature beliefs may have pockets of ignorance.

So don’t be a prisoner of your own success or a slave of good habits. Your ability to adjust and make corrections will be key to the most interesting kind of progress you can achieve in the coming weeks.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Capricorn

author Simone de Beauvoir was a French feminist and activist. In her book A Transatlantic Love Affair, she made a surprising confession: Thanks to the assistance of a new lover, Nelson Algren, she finally had her first orgasm at age 39. Better late than never, right? I suspect that you, too, are currently a good candidate to be transported to a higher octave of pleasure. Even if you’re an old pro at sexual climax, there may be a new level of bliss awaiting you in some other way. Ask for it! Seek it out! Solicit it!

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Can you afford to hire someone to do your busywork for a while? If so, do it. If not, see if you can avoid the busywork for a while. In my astrological opinion, you need to deepen and refine your skills at lounging around and doing nothing. The cosmic omens strongly, loudly and energetically suggest that you should be soft, quiet and placid. It’s time for you to recharge your psychospiritual batteries as you dream up new approaches to making love, making money and making sweet nonsense. Please say a demure “No, thanks” to the strident demands of the status quo, my dear. Trust the stars in your own eyes.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): I believe it’s a

favorable time for you to add a new mentor to your entourage. If you don’t have a mentor, go exploring until you find one. In the next five weeks, you might even consider mustering a host of fresh teachers, guides, trainers, coaches and initiators.

My reading of the astrological omens suggests that you’re primed to learn twice as much and twice as fast about every subject that will be important for you during the next two years. Your future educational needs require your full attention.Y

Homework: Choose two ancestors with whom you’d like to have closer relationships.

Contact their spirits in your dreams. Testify at Freewillastrology.com.

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