Marin Magazine April 2013

You’ve found Marin. Now let’s find your Home.

42 60x12 Miles San Francisco Bay takes center stage.

50 The Three Kings A close-up look at Marin’s bobcats.

56 Cleaning Up M arin’s A ct Roadside litter is a hot-button topic for many in the county.

62 The Remodel Revisited Now is the time to tackle that home renovation project.

In Marin

27 Currents West Marin hot spots, AC34 quiz, Exploratorium and restoration roundup.

34 Style The hottest bags for the season.

36 Q&A Meet author Mary Roach.

38 Conversation Environmental heroes Ken Cook and Deb Callahan.

Destinations

83 Go Scottsdale isn’t just for the girls.

86 Travel Buzz Hawaiian waters call.

90 Journey Trekking to the second-highest mountain on earth.

Out & About

99 Calendar A roundup of what to do in Marin and beyond.

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

118 Flavor For the love of lamb.

Marin Home

139 Backstory The perfect house comes into view for a Tiburon family. COLUMNS 16 View From Marin 18 POV 178 Looking Back

PUBLISHER / E DITORIAL D IRECTOR Nikki Wood Editorial

EXECUTIVE E DITOR Mimi Towle

M ANAGING E DITOR Daniel Jewett

SENIOR WRITER Jim Wood

E DITOR-AT- L ARGE Tim Porter

COPY E DITOR Cynthia Rubin

E DITORIAL A SSISTANTS

Sophie Shulman, Calin Van Paris

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Somer Flaherty, Melissa Gardner White, E.C. Gladstone, Laura Hilgers, Vassi Koutsaftis, Kimball Livingston, Bonnie Monte, John Wall Art

ART D IRECTOR Veronica Sooley

P RODUCTION M ANAGER Alex French

CONTRIBUTING P HOTOGRAPHERS

Sean Cope, Mo DeLong, Vassi Koutsaftis, Gilles Martin-Raget, Chris Ray, Debra Tarrant, Nike van der Molen, John Wall Advertising

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DVERTISING ART D IRECTOR Alex French

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D IRECTOR O FSALES Darla

SUMMER OF SAILING

Cavallo Point is a place to enjoy the best of the Bay Area. This summer will be exceptional, as world-class international sailing competitors come to the San Francisco Bay to trim their sails. Come celebrate the races and teams, July through September, when our special events and widescreen viewing areas bring seafaring thrills here to the shore. Join old salts and land lubbers alike to see the cut of the jib of the world’s fastest boats!

IT’S A BIRD, it’s a plane — almost; really it’s Marin Magazine photographer Sean Cope in a seaplane soaring above the 60-by-12-mile expanse of water known as San Francisco Bay. Cope joined Seaplane Adventures’ pilot A aron Singer on board the craft to get the breathtaking shots (also seen on the cover) for our piece examining that amazing body of water. Writer Kimball Livingston does the rest, pointing out the dynamic aspects of the bay and how they will come into play at the 34th America’s Cup to be held here later this year.

Next in features we move on to dry land and follow local photographer John Wall as he shadows three Marin bobcats. Wall tags along with the normally shy cats, which seem to tolerate his presence, as they sleep, mark their territories and catch prey. It was a rare interaction with nature that Wall treasured — and his photos prove it.

We round out our features with stories on roadside litter and home renovation. A previous Marin Magazine opinion piece on the trash situation in Marin generated a huge reader response — so writer Jim Wood decided to dig deeper to find out why our roadway litter problem is so bad and, more important, what residents can do about it. A nd while we were looking into improving where we live, we asked contributor Somer Flaherty to collect remodeling tips from home builders, architects and interior designers.

Up front we take a look at some West Marin hot spots that were recently refurbished; welcome the Exploratorium to its new S an Francisco Embarcadero digs; check in on four restored local outdoor treasures; pose a few questions to best-selling author Mary Roach and get to know Environmental Working Group president Ken Cook and his wife, D eb Callahan.

Toward the back we invite you to join us in exploring the waters of Hawaii, the amenities and activities in Scottsdale and the wonder — and the challenge — of trekking the mountain K2.

It’s a big issue, full of exciting content and great tips on things to do and places to go. We hope you enjoy reading it — and then get out to try a few adventures of your own.

Marin

Magazine Staff Editors

GETTING WILD

Cope joined Seaplane Adventures’ pilot Aaron Singer on board the craft to get the breathtaking shots for our piece examining San Francisco Bay.

Local photographer John Wall loves to take photographs in Marin. He’s been photographing natural California since he came under the spell of the Santa Ynez Mountains in the early 1980s. Wall’s passion for the natural diversity of Marin began in the early 1990s and eventually led to the discovery of the bobcats. He was so charmed by the animals that he once had a personalized license plate that read BOBCAT.

Good Among Bad

Much

While incarcerated, Hill earned both a high school and community college GED degree and was president of the inmate self-help program TRUST.

happens at San Quentin State Prison that isn’t apparent from the outside.

W“BY JIM WOOD

ELCOME TO T HE

Last Mile Demo Day,” announces Greenbrae resident Chris Redlitz. The event is taking place in the main chapel of San Quentin State Prison, and for Redlitz and his wife, Beverly Parenti, this is the second Last Mile graduation in as many years.

The name Last Mile implies that the inmates the couple works with have taken numerous steps to, in Parenti’s words, “improve themselves in all aspects of their lives.” The Last Mile is a potential bridge between incarceration and becoming a contributing member of society, Parenti explains. At San Quentin, hundreds of people from the outside, many of them living in Marin, volunteer time inside the prison’s walls on similar projects.

What Redlitz and Parenti do is teach a sixmonth course in entrepreneurship, with an emphasis on digital media. On Demo Day, seven graduates — several of whom have been incarcerated for more than 25 years and almost all of whom have earned degrees while in prison — are making PowerPoint presentations on businesses they’d like to start once they’re released. Scattered in the audience are more than 200 Silicon Valley venture capitalists and reporters from both print and digital media.

First up is Chris Schumacher, a trim, cleareyed inmate who speaks passionately about “Fitness Monkey,” the website he hopes to one day implement. Schumacher, serving 16 years to life for second-degree murder, facetiously admits to being “addicted to fitness.” He wants as many people as possible to “replace a drug high with a runner’s high.” His fast-paced and articulate pitch is met with a standing ovation.

Next is Darnell Hill, who’s 44 and married, with a 16-year-old son. Hill hopes to get out in 2015 after serving a 16-years-to-life sentence for robbery and kidnapping. While incarcerated, he’s earned both a high school and community college GED degree and was president of the inmate self-help program TRUST, Teaching Responsibility Utilizing Sociological Training. Hill’s concept is called “Intervention Outlet”; it’s a website that connects people who’ve undergone severe emotional trauma with counselors qualified to help them overcome their fears and phobias. His simple tagline: “Hurt People, Hurt People.”

Other business plans presented include “The Funky Onion,” inmate Jorge Heredia’s plan to market slightly damaged produce; and “Art Felt Creation,” inmate Tommy Winfield’s idea to sell artistic works made by prisoners doing time all over America through online outlets such as eBay. Winfield is in year 16 of a 25-years-to-life sentence.

Because of San Quentin’s regulations, none of the presenters had access to computers with Internet connections — they’ve never been online. They did their research with books, magazines and help from mentors Redlitz and Parenti brought into the program from their own business and personal connections.

Inmate Chrisfino Kenyatta Leal followed the presentations with an inspiring talk titled “I Gotta Keep Striving.” Included was this reference to the work Redlitz and Parenti are doing: “Treat a man as he is, and he will remain as he is; treat a man as he can and should be, and he will become the man he can be and should be.” The program ended with a poem, “I Am a Man,” by prisoner James Cavitt: “I am a man and because of that, I’m going to do everything I can, in order to stand tall on my own two feet, never entertaining the thought of defeat.”

Profiles of participants in The Last Mile program, along with what they’ve accomplished while incarcerated, can be found at thelastmile.org. A lot of bad may lead to winding up in San Quentin State Prison; however, much good is being done inside its walls. That’s my point of view. What’s yours?

Email pov@marinmagazine.com.

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Bay Area events you’ll want to attend

20TH ANNIVERS A RY MA

RIN OPEN

S TUDI OS P REVIEW G ALA

April 27, 5–8 p.m.

325 Town Center, Corte Madera

Marin Open Studio celebrates its 20th anniversary with a preview gala destined to be the art party of the year. Marin Open Studios is a vibrant, community-wide event that celebrates Marin’s rich culture of art. While sipping wine and noshing small bites, pick up an Artist Guide to plan your custom open studios tour for the first two weekends of May. Mingle with artists, art lovers and supporters. Each of the 250 participating artists will have one of his works on display. The exhibition at Town Center will be open April 19 to May 12. Come by and enjoy.

Free

415.343.5667, marinopenstudios.com

Friend us to share and view RSVP Hot Ticket photos at facebook.com/marinmagazine.

Want to see all the images from our RSVP Hot Ticket events? marinmagazine.com/hotticket

Your Letters

Flawed Design?

I’m a regular reader of Jim Wood’s POV column (POV, “A Marin Roundup” March 2013) and always appreciate the thoughtful comments even when I can’t agree with all of them. But Jim, I think you need to dig a little deeper before commending the Transportation Authority of Marin’s Highway 101 flyover project as evidence that “Marin County is in very good shape.” Indeed, it is now coming to light, as ordinary Marin citizens study the proposed project, that its design was badly flawed from the outset. The $7 million spent so far on this proposal would have been better used elsewhere while the project planners and their highly paid consultants asked a crucial question: “Do we

really even need this?” In my own research, I came across one fascinating indication that the answer to this question is no — as is calmly and intelligently documented by Noah Kennedy in a homespun video analysis available on the Internet by searching “Alternate Proposal for Greenbrae Exchange on 101.” If you haven’t already viewed that video, I recommend you do so. There is mounting evidence that the project consultants have ignored common sense and have adjusted their supporting facts as that unpleasant truth has become apparent.

DOUG FERGUSON, GREENBRAE

Tastemakers

In regard to your “Marin’s Tastemakers” article (February 2013) and as a person in the food

ONLINE, WE ASKED YOU

Where is your favorite place to bring the kids when it’s time to eat out in Marin? 101

“Iron Springs Pub and Brewery is great for families.”

Creek Lia Van Houten

“Terrapin Crossroads has a great kids’ menu and board games and toys.”

Peggy Butler

“The Counter.”

George Shumny

“Joe’s Taco Lounge!”

Emily Campbell

“Don’t forget Bar Bocce; water and bocce ball are great distractions.”

Kirstie Martinelli

“ O ur clients leverage our in-depth wealth planning to alleviate concerns about growing and preserving their family’s assets

their lifetime and for future generations. This work has provided clients with predictability and peace of mind so they can enjoy the things they value most in life.

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service industry, I looked forward to reading this piece. I anticipated mutual compliments and kudos to fellow industry professionals. I was completely turned o by the chefs who touted their own restaurants repeatedly. It would seem obvious that the chefs and owners would like their own food, but was that the objective? I figured that this article was an opportunity to highlight others’ creations and how they enjoyed and perceived their culinary peers. Maybe next time the questions should be answered by not including one’s own establishment.

RICK C ERUTTI, SAN ANSELMO

Eds.: Thanks for reading; under our guidelines each chef was allowed to include their own restaurant once. We were thrilled with their participation. Each chef had more to say, check out our sta blogs to read more. marinmagazine.com/blogs

Don’t Forget the Canoe

Thank you for your recent fitness article (“The Ultimate Marin Fitness Guide,” March 2013). You forgot outrigger canoe racing, which has been in Marin since 1993 with two competitive racing clubs — one in Sausalito and one in Larkspur. Both clubs feature one-person as well as six-person outriggers for racing and recreation, sending competitive crews to compete in all major outrigger races including the crossing of the Molokai Channel. On another note, I always place several copies of Marin Magazine on co ee tables when I stage the various homes I sell in Marin (I am also a realtor). The issues are lovely. A NGELA C URLEY, VIA EMAIL

Climate Change Debate

Thanks so much Jim Wood for your interview with Bill Lindqvist (POV, “On Thin Ice” January 2013) and the courage to print it. This is the side of global warming we rarely get to hear. Let’s continue to debate this issue fairly with both sides being equally heard. RUTH LEWIS, VIA EMAIL

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

WE’RE TAKING A STRIKE AT STROKE.

OUR PRIMARY STROKE CENTER IS THE ONLY PLACE IN MARIN THAT CAN TREAT ALL TYPESOF STROKE ON SITE.

The American Heart Association and American Stroke Association recognize this hospital for achieving 85% or higher adherence to all Get With the Guidelines® Stroke Performance Achievement indicators for consecutive 12-month intervals and 75% or higher compliance with 6 of 10 Get With The Guidelines Stroke Quality Measures to improve quality of patient care and outcomes.

If you are experiencing stroke symptoms, call 911 immediately.

Connect WITH US

Race for the Cup

Marin Magazine is pleased to add former America’s Cup chief communications officer Stephanie Martin to the team to produce an exciting stand-alone publication that will be inserted into our July issue. The Race for the Cup: The Ultimate 2013 Summer Guide will contain complete coverage of the Cup, interviews with participants, a calendar of events, best viewing locations and much more. Local businesses will not want to miss the opportunity to market to this exclusive audience. To find out more about what we can do for your business, contact Debra Hershon, dhershon@marinmagazine.com, 415.332.4800, ext. 120.

Go Digital

Be a VIP

Marin Magazine can help you get right to the front of the line. Join the VIP Marin program and be in the know about special events and announcements and timely editorial content; even be the first to see the digital edition of our magazine each month. Join by texting MARIN to 90947. Want even more exclusive content? Visit our VIP page to see a list of great local businesses offering one-of-a-kind deals. marinmagazine.com/vipmarin

Our digital edition is new and better than ever — check out the slick new interface. Share, print and read at home, or take Marin Magazine with you wherever you go on your favorite mobile device. Want to be the first to see the new issue? Subscribe to our digital edition for free and you’ll never miss any of our great local content. marinmagazine.com/subscribe

Trunk Show

Clothing maker and designer Brunello Cucinelli celebrates the arrival of his line and the opening of his new boutique within Saks Fifth Avenue in San Francisco on April 18 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For next fall, the Brunello Cucinelli women’s collection sees the return of an androgynous look and elegance characterized by an attention to details such as lines, shapes and volumes that create a three-dimensional couture expression. The collection is rich with menswear elements, yet femininity and innovation take the stage, creating a luxurious daywear look. Novelty knits and impeccable fabrics combine with a unique sense of style to set the tone for a season focused on luxury and versatility. Come on by the third floor in the women’s store at Post and Powell streets to celebrate the new arrival and enjoy delicious food and wine; please RSVP to 415.438.5431.

MINI

of san francisco

Welcome to Van Ness Avenue! Celebrating the Grand Opening of the new MINI of San Francisco. We are the largest MINI store in the world, and are proud to be family-owned & operated.

Join us for a British-inspired evening of tasty treats, plenty to drink, and great ra e prizes while enjoying an exclusive performance by THE ENGLISH BEAT

100% of the proceeds from this event will bene t Larkin Street Youth Services.

VIP tickets $50 include:

• Complementary valet parking

• Event admission to this amazing party

• A Raffle ticket

With limited capacity for this special evening, you’ll want to pre-purchase your $50 VIP ticket at MINISF.com. Additional raffle tickets are available online and at the event for $20 each. *There is no limit to the number of ra e tickets you can purchase and you need not be present to win.

Raffle: Grand prize is a special weekend in the beautiful Napa Valley driving the new MINI Roadster!

NEW LOCATION: 799 Van Ness Avenue @ Eddy St. DATE: April 4, 2013 • 6:30-9:30pm

RSVP: MINISF.com

Larkin Street Youth Services is the

No One Wants Temporary Weight Loss

In Marin

CELEBRATING THE PEOPLE, PLACES AND CAUSES OF THIS UNIQUE COUNTY

WEST MARIN HOT SPOTS

A s spring approaches, a day trip in West Marin is on the minds of many who live on the other side of Bolinas Ridge. If you go, don’t miss these three new and refurbished establishments that offer all-new reasons to take a moment and indulge your love of good food.

1

THE OLEMA The 1876 farmhouse formerly called the Olema Inn has been renamed The Olema, painted a dark gray and reborn under the experienced hands of owners chef Margaret Grade and partner Daniel DeLong (both of Manka’s Inverness Lodge), who opened the revamped dining room last September with plans to open the inn portion eventually. See our Looking Back section in the March issue (page 138) for the building’s history, including the origin of the name. No longer a white-tablecloth establishment, the restaurant now sports a more rustic, casual feel. The menu features food from the bay and surrounding natural area. Expect to see entrees including Oysters in the Style of Escargot or Devils Gulch Rabbit and Dumpling, at a cost of about $22 each. Wines come exclusively from Marin. Open 2 p.m.–10 p.m. most days. 10000 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, Olema, theolema.com

Marin Magazine April issue - half pg spread

2

SALTWATER OYSTER DEPOT

Pickleweed Point Oyster Farm founder Luc Chamberland knows just how to pry an oyster from its shell. He’s also apparently equally adept at garnering fi nancial support from the community. He used the increasingly popular “crowd-funding” money-raising strategy, along with his own capital, to successfully support the opening of a new restaurant last summer. Now he says there is often a line out the door of people waiting for his food. Guests come for the Oysters á La Luc, baked oysters with shallot brown butter, as well as the Tuna Crudo with hazelnut oil, Padrón peppers and sea salt chips. The menu changes weekly, focusing on the freshest local ingredients. Entrées range between $16 and $18. Takeout is available. Open Wednesday through Sunday 11 a.m.–8 p.m. 12781 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, Inverness, saltwateroysterdepot.com

3

BREAKERS CAFE Seeds for the idea of a new beer garden on the back deck have been planted and will be in full bloom later this year along with the introduction of a full bar inside. Those are just some of the changes brothers Sam and Augie Temer (also owners of Stinson’s The Sand Dollar) are making this year after having taken over the old Stinson Beach Grill in 2009. The property has been relandscaped with beach grass and olive trees, and the creation of an indoor game room is under way featuring a pool table, foosball and shu eboard, and outside, a course for a game called Corn Hole. The menu relies on local organic produce and proteins, including a focus on wild fi sh. The Blackened Wild Salmon Sandwich and Smoked Salmon Scramble are favorites. Breakfast and lunch are available, counter service only. Open 9 a.m.–3 p.m. weekdays, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. weekends. 3465 Highway 1, Stinson Beach, breakerscafe.com

How Much Do You Know?

New year, new Cup, new rules. “Stripped down and simplified, the rules of the 34th America’s Cup were designed to be easier to understand by the spectators and sailors alike,” says director of umpiring and rules administration Mike Martin of Mill Valley. He should know, since he was part of the team that rewrote the rules. His motivation? The world will be watching, the races will be televised and, oh, there is that little detail about how to handle the fastest boats the Cup’s ever seen. STEPHANIE MARTIN

Think you know the rules? Go online to answer more race questions and for your chance to win $50 for dining at The Spinnaker Restaurant. marinmagazine.com/racequiz

ON THE MARK The boats in the diagram below are rounding a mark on the starboard side. Which boat has mark room (room for a boat to sail its proper course around a mark)?

ANSWER: When the first boat enters the three-hull-length zone, the boats are not overlapped, so the boat that has reached the zone first, in this case blue, is entitled to mark room from yellow.

$25,000 to $1,000,000.

Take advantage of our fast approvals and competitive rates for Home Equity Lines of Credit. Call or stop by any Bank of Marin branch today to nd out more.

Exploratorium 2.0

The new Exploratorium at Pier 15, opening April 17, will be three times as large as it was in its former location. The museum also aims to become the greenest on the planet, with innovations like a solar power system, which could heat more than 1,000 homes per year, and miles of underground plastic tubing for radiant heating. Here are a few more numbers to contemplate regarding this San Francisco institution. CALIN VAN PARI S

$300,000,000 spent on new project

1,000,000 visitors expected in 2013

330 the age of the Olema Douglas fir in the East Gallery (photo above)

25 miles of plastic tubing

25 Ph.D.s on staff

5 gallons of Rodeo Beach sand and water in the Outdoor Gallery’s “Bay Windows” exhibit

2011 year the Exploratorium received the National Science Foundation’s Public Service Science Award

1969 year of original opening

SADDLE UP Thoroughbreds,

Appaloosas and mustangs, oh my: Lovers of all things equestrian will not want to miss the Marin Horse Council’s April 6 “A Day of the Horse,” an event for riders and spectators alike. Riders from local training facilities and riding barns will gather at the Marin County Civic Center arena and have the opportunity to compete in a variety of disciplines from vaulting to western riding.

A TRIBUTE IN FILM

If you happened to catch our A pril 2011 Q& A with Belvedere’s Holland Reynolds, a former University High School crosscountry runner who literally crawled to the finish line at a Fresno meet to win the 2010 state championship, here’s some follow-up. Reynolds’ mother, Robin, along with locals Dan and Judy Noyes, have created a documentary entitled Running for Jim that pays tribute to longtime cross-country coach Jim Tracy, the inspiration behind Reynolds’ irrepressible urge to finish the race that day. Tracy was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or Lou Gehrig’s disease, in June 2010. Running for Jim chronicles Tracy’s struggles and shows that the strength and dedication he demands from his runners is mirrored in his own life. Be sure to catch it this month at the Tiburon I nternational Film Festival. Proceeds from the film will help fund A LS research. tiburonfilmfestival.com

C.V.P.

LIFEGUARDS IN TRAINING

The Stinson Beach Junior Lifeguard program is a free twiceweekly summer day camp. The unique family operation is currently headed by Stinson Beach local Amanda Norton, whose father helped run the program when she was young. Participants, ranging in age from 6 to 17, hang by the beach while learning valuable outdoor skills like CPR, swim rescue, fire suppression and rappelling. C.V.P.

Restoration Roundup

This spring grab the sunscreen, the kids and the dog and get out to one, or all, of these amazing local spots. CAL IN VAN PARIS

POINT BONITA LIGHTHOUSE

PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE The suspension bridge, originally built in 1954, underwent a $10 million face-lift last year. The new bridge is an aesthetic representation of the original landmark but is composed of modern materials — a high-strength stainless-steel mesh net with tensioned rock bolts — to ensure stability and longevity. The lighthouse is open to the public by way of the bridge Saturday, Sunday and Monday from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

R EDWOOD CREEK R ESTORATION AT M UIR BEACH Redwood Creek — which runs from the peaks of Mount Tamalpais, eventually filtering into the ocean at Muir Beach

— is recognized by the Nature Conservatory as one of 25 global biodiversity “hot spots” necessary for preserving the world’s ecosystems. The five-year restoration to expand and protect the creek (and the wildlife that depend upon it) will be completed this year. Be sure to explore the new 225-foot pedestrian bridge connecting the visitor parking lot to the beach.

NEW

CABINS AT SAMUEL P. TAYLOR

STATE PARK Samuel P. Taylor’s new Madrone Cabins, o cially opened late last year, make “roughing it” a bit more luxurious. The 12-by20-foot cabins are located at the Madrone group camp area at the base of Mount Barnabe and feature electrical outlets, lighting, a covered porch and four platform bunk beds. Each cabin also boasts a personal barbecue grill, fire ring, water spigot and picnic table — all outside, of course.

TENNESSEE VALLEY/M ANZANITA

PATHWAY PROJECT This ongoing renovation has transformed a dirt trail into an elevated multiuse path, impervious to Tam Valley’s

finicky tides. The $4.6 million e ort makes commuting safer for cyclists and pedestrians by way of a new bridge, connecting the path to Tam Junction, and two new tra c lights, one at Shoreline Highway and Tennessee Valley Road and one on Shoreline Highway at Flamingo Road. m

PASADENA, CA 13 Douglas Alley

PASADENA, CA 13 Douglas Alley

CHICAGO, IL 660 Wabash Street

CHICAGO, 660 Wabash Street

LAKE FOREST, IL 264 Market Square

NEW YORK, NY 311 Columbus Ave.

LAKE FOREST, IL 264 Market Square 311 Columbus

EDINA, MN 4999 France Ave.

EDINA, MN 4999 France Ave.

MONTCLAIR, NJ 5 Church Street

MONTCLAIR, 5

SEATTLE, WA 1322 Fifth Ave.

SEATTLE, WA 1322 Fifth Ave.

PARIS 13 Rue Vielle du Temple

PARIS 13 Rue Vielle du Temple

LONDON / COPENHAGEN / BERLIN

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Carry On

Skip those pesky airline checked bag fees and board in style for that spring getaway. With everything from laptop compartments to foldaway designs, these totes are more than just fashionable travel

companions.

VERONICA SOOLEY

Weekender bag made from recycled sails by Sea Bags, $245, at seabags.com.

12 QUESTIONS FOR

Mary Roach

Author

OAK L AN D

Mary Roach, author of Packing for Mars, this year’s choice for One Book One Marin, seems to have made a career of exploring topics most of us pretend to ignore. One of her first published works, on elephant warts for the San Francisco Zoo’s newsletter, paved the way for an illustrious and still-thriving writing career that includes magazine work, public speaking, blog postings and, of course, authoring best-selling books. All but one of the latter have one-word titles: Stiff, about cadavers;  Bonk , about sex labs;  Spook , on science and the afterlife, and her fifth book,  Gulp, on the alimentary canal, which hits bookstores this month. You can see her read in person at Notes & Words, a literary fundraiser benefiting Children’s Hospital of Oakland, at Oakland’s Fox Theater on May 18. Roach lives in the East Bay with her husband, Ed R achles. We caught up with her on this side of the bay as she was heading to Terrapin Crossroads for dinner with friends. MIMI TOWLE

1

Did you study journalism or science? Nope, I watched a lot of television. I could tell you the nightly lineup on all three networks. Saturday night, 8:30, CBS, was Mary Tyler Moore — and I’m pretty sure I could still sing the theme songs to Rhoda, Maude and Phyllis

2

M use? Caffeine. Good coffee.

3

I f you don’t have any good coffee? I get some.

4

What grosses you out? Mucoid strands from okra in gumbo, some types of heavy cotton fabric give me the heebie-jeebies, and shows on plastic surgery. That’s about it.

5 Why wasn’t Packing for Mars given a oneword title? We wanted it to suggest the human side of space travel, and “floaters” was as close as we got before giving up.

6 Has anyone made a movie from one of your books? The writers from Family Guy wrote a pilot based on Stiff ; it was exciting, even though it wasn’t picked up.

7 Where you surprised a book on cadavers became a best seller? Yes.

8 You travel all over the world for your research; how much do you actually use? Ninety percent of what I report on I never use.

9 What do you with the extra? I like to put tidbits on Twitter that don’t make it into a story, but luckily I have a short memory and I don’t dwell on what gets cut — three days later I never knew it existed.

10

Whom do you follow on Twitter? I t’s fun to see what M aria Popova posts and I also follow companies like Kotex and the Ohio Hog Farmers association — you never know what gems they might tweet.

11

Worst assignments? I pitched being an ergonomic airplane seat tester many years ago. I tend to be overoptimistic; I thought it might be fascinating and funny. Once I got the assignment, I realized it was sitting for eight hours and filling out a questionnaire on how I felt. And then, I still had to write an interesting article.

12 N ext book? Anything ending in k or z — Fizz, Spaz, Buzz, Sink, Grok. m

ONE BOOK ONE MARIN

A pril 11 Corte Madera Library, 10 a.m.–noon

April 12 Civic Center Library, noon, with Carol Benet

April 16 Fairfax Library, 7 p.m.

April 24 Novato Library, 7 p.m.

June 5 Margaret Todd Senior Center, 7 p.m.

BOOKS

Reading List

An Intimate Life: Sex, Love and My Journey

as

a Surrogate Partner

by Cheryl T. Cohen, Soft Skull Press, $15.95. Did you see The Sessions , the movie about a Berkeley sex surrogate starring Helen Hunt? This is the book it was based on and, as is typical in adaptations, the book is even better than the fine film.

The Painted Word: A Treasure Chest of Remarkable Words and Their Origins by Phil Cousineau, Viva Editions, $16.95 . Where did highfalutin and riffraff come from? Cousineau, a Bay Area writer, filmmaker and storyteller, knows. If you enjoy using words, learning about their origins and sharing fascinating stories, this book is for you.

The

R eal Problem Solvers: Social Entrepreneurs in

A merica by Ruth Shapiro, Stanford Business Books, $27.95 . A mustread for those intrigued by social entrepreneurship and the sometimes fuzzy boundary between the not-for-profit and for-profit worlds. The Mill Valley author is donating all proceeds to the Commonwealth Club of San Francisco.

Dancing With the Playa Messiah: A 21-Year Burning

Man Photo

Album by George P. Post, George Post Photography, $45 Presented here are more than 1,000 color photographs taken at Burning Man, the bizarre and beyond-belief annual spectacle that brings some 50,000 people to the remote Nevada desert. This book is the next best thing to being there.

Pauline Kael: A Life in the Dark by Brian Kellow, Viking Press, $27.95 . The fascinating true story of how the daughter of a Petaluma chicken rancher became the film critic for The New Yorker during the 1970s and ’80s. She had a talent for writing; films just happened to be her interest JIM WOOD

Who’s your duciary?

It’s gettIng a lot more dIffIcult to determIne who’s on your sIde.

A lot of people want to help plan and execute your investments. These people have different levels of experience and expertise. Different licenses and accreditations. And fundamentally different ways of being compensated for their services. Once you understand the distinctions, you’re going to nd it a lot easier to interview rms and nd yourself one you can trust.

At the root of this discussion is the concept of “ duciary.” There are various de nitions out there. But the basic idea is this: a duciary is someone who has the highest possible ethical obligation to offer nancial advice that is in your best interest. Your best interest trumps every other consideration.

We’ve written an “executive brief” on the duciary relationship. You can nd it at www.privateocean.com/ duciary.

Personal, powerful wealth management

Ken Cook and Deb Callahan

The environmental vanguard starts in sunny San Anselmo.

tim Porter

IF YOU’RE A typical Marin resident, you receive an email from Ken Cook, president of the Environmental Working Group, nearly every day (surprise: he doesn’t write them all himself). E WG, which Cook cofounded in 1993, is the organization that’s brought us resources such as the Dirty Dozen, a shopper’s guide to pesticides in produce, and Skin Deep, the website that

ranks your favorite lotion and other personal care products on the nasty chemicals scale. Health-savvy consumers, of which Marin has many, are so gaga for resources and information on the topic that ewg.org receives 8 to 9 million visits per month.

Deb Callahan, to whom Cook has been married since 1999, is an influential environmentalist in her own right. The president of

the powerful League of C onservation Voters from 1996 to 2006, Cook has also worked for think tanks, foundations and several political campaigns and recently served as executive director of the Point Reyes National Seashore Association (PRNSA).

Cook, 61, and Callahan, 54, relocated from the D.C. area to San A nselmo with their now 4-year-old son Cal a year and a half ago, when

In the Bay Area and Marin, you go out for a hike, and that’s how you hang out with your friends. That is not what you do in Washington at all.

Callahan accepted the PRNSA job. She recently left that post to become director of the Colorado River Sustainability Campaign, a job that a ords a better commute (none) and more time with their son.

Why the move to M arin? Deb: I’m a native Californian. I grew up in L.A. and left there in 1984 to work on the Mondale campaign for what I thought was going to be a month. I finally made it back home last year. We’ve known for a while that we wanted to move back here, and the timing lined up with this amazing opportunity to run the PRNSA. I think that Californians are just like New Yorkers; you find that they want to come home at a particular time in life. Ken: For me, personally, it was a great time to get a little distance from the Washington scene, to see if it wouldn’t freshen me up for the work, in a way. And that has proven to be the case. I was out here maybe once every six weeks anyway, raising money. And I was at the point in my career where I was ready to not be a hands-on manager day in and day out. So it was an easy move to make. Also, we wanted to raise our son in California.

How did a couple of environmental powerhouses end up getting married? Deb: I like to say I fell in love with his work first. I was working for the W. Alton Jones Foundation doing environmental grant making and Ken was one of my grantees. He was married to his first wife at the time. Ken: We started dating in mid-1997, a little less than a year after I separated from my first wife. Deb and I were first friends and then we started going out and sparks just flew right away. Deb: It was an instant click.

What do you find is the biggest contrast between D.C. and the West Coast? Deb: One of the great di erences is the way social life works here. In Washington, you go out to dinner. In the Bay Area and Marin, you go out for a hike, and that’s how you hang out with your friends. That is not what you do in Washington at all. Life is very di erent here, in a wonderful way.

Is a Marin resident more likely to be carrying around a copy of the Dirty Dozen list in her wallet than someone inside the Beltway? Ken: It’s funny you say that; we know the exact number of our supporters. We have about 60,000 people from the Bay Area on our email list, and about 1,000

of those are from Marin. L.A. is big too and so is D.C., but coming out here, I far more often run into people who know us because of something we’ve done on consumer health, especially at places like Whole Foods and Good Earth. For me, it’s like coming back home.

What are the most pressing environmental issues facing Marin? Deb: I wonder what it’s going to be like here in 20 or 30 or 40 years with global climate change. When I was working at Point Reyes, I kept asking, is Point Reyes going to be an island when the sea level rises? There’s been a fair amount of modeling done out there, and it shows that the change could be significant. But the Giacomini Wetland Restoration Project is a great model for the kind of thing we need to do to keep ecosystems resilient. If we’re planting natural habitat and restoring the wetlands around the coastal zones, the area can absorb the water if there’s increased flooding and raised tides. It’s like what we saw with Superstorm Sandy in New York.

In Marin /

Is there some hidden gem out at Point Reyes that visitors now overlook? Deb: Clem Miller’s gravesite. Clem was the congressman who really worked to establish Point Reyes as a national park. It’s an extraordinarily beautiful site and rarely visited. His little headstone is o -trail, right above Arch Rock. T here’s a gorgeous coastal view and you can see the Farallones; sta at the visitor center can tell you how to get there.

What’s your favorite way to get around Marin? Deb: We have one of those electric bikes, which we use to do our shopping or to take Cal to day care. It’s got a child seat for him and big saddlebags in the back. Cal calls the bike Poppy Cat because it’s bright orange. We’re in bike love.

What’s the funniest Marin moment you’ve had — when you both looked at each other and said, “Wow, we’re in California now”? Ken: When we first came here, we took our son to that park behind Bacich elementary school, with the incredible play structure and a button you can push and a waterfall comes down, and there’s a giant sandbox, and there’s also a sign that says: “No Organized Play A llowed.” It makes sense — let the kids be creative and inventive — but you don’t see many signs like that in A merica. Deb: That was a Facebook post for our friends across the country.

What about the hypocrisy factor in M arin — the people who go to Good Earth, put their organic food in cloth bags, and then drive it home in a R ange R over? Ken: O ur theory at E WG is, don’t beat people up over an issue like that if we’re getting them to make the small commitments. We’ll take those small wins and expand from there. Maybe these same people are thinking about their next car and that they’d like it to do better on mileage, or maybe they’ll try to break the bike out every so often. We’d rather give them a sense of winning and being successful as environmentalists than beating them up. None of us — well, not most of us — is doing all that we can do. Deb: A lso, I ’d hate to apply the word hypocrisy to Marin because there are so many bonus points for what the county is doing right.

What’s the happiest moment you’ve had in M arin? Ken: I have moments constantly where I recognize that I’m in a very di erent world. I’m a really early riser and there’s never a morning that I don’t walk into my home o ce and look out the window or let the dog out and am not startled by the beauty we live in. Just shocked by it. Literally stopped in my tracks — I just stop and stare. And that’s how I start my day. m

Marin’s Report Card

We asked Cook and Callahan how they’d rank Marin on a variety of environmental fronts.

R ECYCLING

Deb: B+

“I’m knocking points off because they don’t give you big enough containers. The sanitation district is wonderful and they do their job but I always have leftover paper that I can’t fit anywhere.”

Ken: A

“I don’t know the life cycle very well, so I don’t know how it’s working beyond our recycling bin, but it seems great to me.”

ALTERNATIVE E NERGY

Deb: A

“You see a lot more alternative-fuel vehicles on the road here, so “A” doesn’t even begin to cover it.”

Ken: A

“Especially because of Marin Energy Authority. I don’t know enough about it yet but I want to learn more and see how we can replicate it elsewhere.”

ORGANIC FOOD CO NSUMPTI ON

Deb: A

“I’d be stunned if there is any place in the country that is more organic than Marin County. Good Earth in Fairfax sets a standard we’ve literally never seen before.”

Ken: A

“Marin and maybe a few other places in California set the curve; the commitment is amazing.”

San Francisco Bay, our greatest natural resource, becomes a character all its own in this year’s America’s Cup race.

BY KIM B ALL L IVINGSTON

IN 1775, WHEN Juan Manuel de Ayala sailed through what we now call the Golden Gate, he stopped first at Crissy Field. But our Spanish seafarer soon wearied of the biting, persistent sea breeze that had blown him in and, realizing that he could escape by crossing over to the opposite shore, he did. If he did not actually utter “marvelous Marin,” he probably came close.

W hen Larry Ellison’s team of sailors brought the America’s Cup to the 60-by-12 mile expanse of water that is San Francisco Bay, there was no thought of placing the racecourse anywhere but right in the maw of the Golden Gate wind funnel. W hen you need to stage sailboat racing for spectators and TV, a persistent breeze is a virtue. Few spots in the world have our summertime winds, much less our from-any-shore spectator access and spectacular backdrops. And for at least a while longer, we have the America’s Cup, the oldest international competition in any sport and surely the hardest to comprehend. Maybe we’ll take a stab at that. But first, let’s share a little appreciation for that

sparkling, defining feature of the region, a roiling mixture of salt water and freshwater that is 400 square miles on the surface at low tide, 460 square miles at high tide, and some two trillion gallons in volume but, obviously, variable. Just think, the next time you look at the bay, of one-sixth of all that water going out, and in, twice a day.

Dangers Above, Dangers Below

Last October 16, the outbound one-sixth of the San Francisco Bay’s waters swept the overturned catamaran of E llison’s Oracle Team USA under the bridge and out the Gate to what Homer would have called the gobbly sea. And so might we. The whitecapped waves ate that boat’s wing alive. Yes, wing, but let’s get back to talking about the bay.

You might be surprised that the first-ever study of sharks in San Francisco Bay is now under way, funded and led by researchers from the Bay Institute and Aquarium of the Bay, focused on sevengill sharks. The animals are

captured, tagged, released and tracked. Capable of growing to 10 feet, sevengills are the top predators of the bay, though they’ve made no documented attacks on humans. No one knew before that they like to hang in the deepest trench of the Golden Gate, swimming in place while the tidal currents deliver lunch.

Mark Twain, who passed a bit of time in these environs, would no doubt have taken such information and run up a comparison to the machinations of the equities markets, but we’ll just move on, because Twain’s Wild West lives on, in and on San Francisco Bay. Down Los Angeles way, they cancel sailboat races in what is normal-like, hereabouts. Windsurfing had its origins in Southern California but became something di erent here, and recently the pioneer kite sailors of the bay figured out how to race their vessels — with kites 80-some feet in the air, attached to wires that can slice you open. It took a heap of figuring, but it worked. The inaugural kite-racing world championship was held on San Francisco Bay in 2009. A new sport was born, and we’re likely to see kiting in the Olympics in 2020. Reigning world champion and U.S. Yachtsman of the Year Johnny Heineken (apparently, kiting is yachting) grew up in Larkspur along

with his sister, Erika, reigning kiteboard women’s world champion. The sailors of the Atlantic know well-traveled routes up and down the Eastern Seaboard and across the pond and back, to the Mediterranean in the summer and the Caribbean in the winter. San Francisco Bay is far off that beaten track, but our people are hard to ignore.

By the way, a “yacht” is quite simply any boat used for pleasure, and we keep expanding the definition of boat. The madcap carbon-fiber marvels that will be racing for the America’s Cup must be yachts, but they are like nothing that came before. A scribbler seeking to communicate the speed of fast sailboats could describe them as fast enough to pull a water-skier. You can visualize that, right? In 2013 there are many sailboats that fit that description. But the Cup boats are faster. We might see closing speeds of 90 miles per hour. The 11 crewmen aboard wear helmets and body armor and carry a personal supply of oxygen, in case they are trapped beneath an overturned boat. The first challenger to launch was New Zealand, and as soon as its boat lifted itself up above the surface on hydrofoils, Principal Race O cer John Craig, a resident of San Rafael, knew that he was going to have to rethink the racecourse to allow for even higher speeds than he had imagined. (Just so you know, the present sailing speed record over a 500-meter course, set in Namibia by a specialized contraption named Sailrocket, is 75 miles per hour.)

ANew Age of Sailing

The America’s Cup on San Francisco Bay has a shot at changing the way the world views sailing, and it would not happen anywhere else. Larry Ellison and the CEO of his racing team, four-time Cup winner Russell Coutts, are out to make sailing a television sport. Ellison has invested heavily in new sports graphics, the talent is homegrown, and the reams and reams of data generated by the teams and the racing is streamed open-source to any geek who wants to play. It’s very 2013 San Francisco. Development team leader Stan Honey is one of the most accomplished sailors of his generation, and the quick gloss on his outsize career in software is that he’s the guy who figured out how to create

the first-down yellow-line-graphic in televised football. Honey’s newest wizardry gives the commentators a tool kit with ahead/behind lines, current lines, wind lines, wind shadows — whatever they need to tell the story.

So where is the best place to watch the Cup boats in action? For a spectator ashore or afloat, the race boats will go by in a flash. You’re going to want to have a screen to follow the broadcast from other parts of the course. Big screen or handheld, either will do. In the old days, races took place miles offshore, and a posse of spectator boats followed the racers around. In 2013, very few speedboats are speedy enough to keep up with these catamarans, and the only chasers allowed on the course will be the safety

boats with a medic aboard and a diver suited up and ready to jump in an emergency.

The wings, 131 feet tall and built of plastic skin over cored-carbon tubing, put out 40 percent more power per square foot than a conventional soft sail. The organizers know now that to sail here, they’ve over-achieved, but it’s too late to rewind. We’re in, and it’s on.

Why We Rock

San Francisco Bay, like the rest of the region, has its microclimates. We know about the windy, chilly West Bay, where the America’s Cup races will run in a corridor between the city front and a line of picket boats, starting o Crissy Field, making a few laps and probably finishing near the newcruise ship terminal at Pier 27, where there is at least a small chance of running out of wind. Someone else, meanwhile, will be moored in Ayala Cove at Angel Island, enjoying a sun bubble free of — oooh, did we mention fog? The summer of

When

Larry Ellison’s team of sailors brought the America’s Cup to San Francisco Bay, there was no thought of placing the racecourse anywhere but right in the maw of the Golden Gate wind funnel.

2010, right after Ellison had won the Cup in the name of the Golden Gate Yacht Club, was one of those years. It’s a dirty little secret that had we been running races in 2010, nobody would have seen a thing. We don’t need a repeat of 2010. But the fog is a great character in the dramas of San Francisco Bay. It does not come on little cat feet. No, we get the whole cat. It can be overwhelming, or it can come as a whimsical kinetic sculpture, wafting around the towers of the bridge, teasing the corners of Alcatraz, retreating, sneaking, almost alive. It is, of course, moist air from the Pacific, chilled below its dew point, that creates the fog, and it’s the foghorns that create the symphony of the bay.

This is a challenging place for a boat, whether power, sail or paddle-powered. But no other is more rewarding. There are many places where it is nice to get out on the water. San Francisco Bay is not “nice.” It has its golden, serene moments. Certainly it has its calm mornings, with the hills rising above the bay and the towers of commerce towering over the hills. But the people who truly inhabit San Francisco Bay are out there after the breeze kicks in. They’re used to getting kicked, they’re braced for it, and they keep coming back. Because San Francisco Bay is not merely a place. It is not merely a body of water. It is visceral. It is a passion. m

THE THREE KINGS

A LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER DISCOVERS BOBCATS IN MARIN’S WILD OPEN SPACES.

STORY AND

S BY JOHN WALL

BOBCATS DON’T ALWAYS live up to their reputations for being secretive creatures. My first bobcat encounter involved one racing toward me, charging like a freight train out of the woods.

I’d been quietly photographing wildflowers in an adjacent meadow at the foot of Mount Tamalpais when I heard it coming, a wild thing thrashing through dry leaves and snapping twigs. I didn’t have time to run, so I braced myself. A ll of a sudden the wildcat hit the brakes as it emerged from the woods and met my eyes — and just as suddenly, it spun around and bounded away through the woods. L ooking through the tangle of coast live oak, hazel and D ouglas fir, I spotted a second bobcat following on its heels. A male and female, I surmised, after hearing the unmistakable yowling of bobcat passion in the canyon below.

My next run-in with Lynx rufus occurred in the same general area, but this time the encounter was much closer. T he cat was facing away from me, perched on a rocky outcrop where it was focused on something directly below and hidden from my view. T he cat looked back over its shoulder at me once — I was no more than 10 feet away — but quickly snapped its attention back to its intended prey, which turned out to be a baby deer.

W hen the cat raised and wiggled its rump, I knew it was about to pounce. A s it dropped out of sight behind the rock, the fawn bleated in horror, drawing its alarmed mother out of the nearby brush where she’d been feeding. T he doe looked accusingly at me for a moment but quickly realized the blame lay elsewhere and charged to the rescue. No match in size for a full-grown mother deer, the luckless bobcat escaped like a shot out of the brush and clawed straight up a D ouglas fir tree. T he doe and fawn soon ambled, apparently unscathed, into the woods. Fir needles drizzled down from the bobcat’s perch.

W hen I moved from a small town in the Sierra Nevada mountains to S an Francisco more than 20 years ago I immediately set out to explore the wild lands across the Golden Gate Bridge. T hanks to the work of everyone who fought to preserve the coast as open space, there’s a nearly unbroken wildlife corridor stretching from the Marin Headlands to the Point Reyes National S eashore. B obcats can be encountered along the whole stretch.

O ver many years of weekend jaunts, I would occasionally see a bobcat here and there. T he encounters were usually brief and always spontaneous, an excellent surprise. O nce in a while I met a cat that wouldn’t run away before I could photograph it.

The first of those cooperative cats had a radio collar so deeply buried in its fur that I didn’t even notice it until I enlarged the photos. A little bit of online sleuthing turned up one of the biologists who’d done the collaring as part of a study on bobcats that live near urban areas. I was amazed to learn that the biologist had last collared a cat in that area 10 years before I’d taken my photograph. T he life span of a wild bobcat is about 12 years, and I suspect the advanced age of the cat is what made it so tolerant of my presence.

Subsequent experience would teach me that a younger bobcat might also tolerate being close to humans. A s I spent more time photographing the animals, I eventually learned to tell them apart. A ll of a sudden they weren’t simply random animals, but specific cats with recognizable facial markings, gaits and even personalities.

T hree of them — I nicknamed them D e N iro, Redford and Rocky — were males who accepted my presence for as long as a couple of hours at a time, and on more than one occasion. I called them the three kings because they seemed to be the lords of their territories — wildcat royalty.

I’ve tagged along with them as they’ve prowled across the landscape, from soggy meadow to windswept hillside. I’ve watched each of them stalk, pounce on, capture and devour prey. I’ve investigated their scats. I’ve watched them clean their fur, scent-mark their territories and enjoy a bit of warm sunshine on a frosty morning. I once photographed D e N iro while he slept, even as he dreamed (his rapid eye movement beneath closed lids as plain to see as on a sleeping person).

I’ve also watched a healthy cat become sickly, as in the case of Redford. T here is no comfort for an ailing bobcat — no family or friends to catch extra gophers, no doctors to kill the parasites, no paid sick leave. A lthough I felt pity for the unfortunate animal, it evinced no pity for itself.

T here were a couple of years when I saw the three kings so frequently I wondered how I’d ever missed them. T hen, one winter, everything seemed to change. Redford seemed unable to recover from his illness, or perhaps from his old age. Toward the end of March that year, I saw him for the last time. S ummer passed, then fall, and finally it was winter again — the best time to look for bobcats — but still no Redford. N or did I catch so much as a glimpse of Rocky in any of his old meadow haunts. I did see D e N iro again, looking cocky as ever, but only once.

Just when I thought I was getting to know them, the cats disappeared, once again living up to their reputations for secrecy, and reminding me to savor every precious sighting.

THE ENCOUNTERS WERE USUALLY BRIEF AND ALWAYS SPONTANEOUS,ANEXCELLENTSURPRISE.

TheBobcat theWildCareinSanRafaeltakesinandtreatsfiveto10bobcatsayearfromallover

ingestedcounty.Mostcommonlythesearecatsthathavebeenhitbyacarorshot,orthat ratpoisonorhavesevereemaciationandparasiteproblems.

While they may look imposing, bobcats are small, averaging around 15 pounds — the size of an average house cat.

An estimated 70,000 bobcats live in California, many right here in Marin County. The bobcat’s range includes most of the continental Unites States, from southern Canada to northern M exico.

Bobcats are often mistaken for mountain lions because people are not familiar with the species.

Bobcats are nocturnal predators although, like house cats, they can be active at any time of day.

Bobcats prey on small animals ranging in size from a mouse to a baby deer.

Female bobcats have one litter a year, each with an average of three kittens.

MELISSAGARDNERWHITE

M any people erroneously believe bobcats have no tail; they have a shortened but distinguishable tail.

It is very rare for a bobcat to attack a human being. I n most reported attack cases the cat had been fed by people in the past, something that never should be done.

If you have an outdoor rabbit hutch or a chicken coop, make sure the enclosure is predator-proof. Bobcats eat prey smaller than themselves, so they typically will not go after sizable dogs and cats, but will make a quick meal of rabbits and chickens.

Never approach a wild animal. If you encounter a sick or injured bobcat, call WildCare’s 24-hour hotline, 415.456.7283.

All information compiled by WildCare: wildcarebayarea.org

ALL OF A SUDDEN THE WILDCAT HIT THE BRAKES AS IT EMERGED FROM THE WOODS AND MET MY EYES.

Cleaning Up Marin’s Act

Roadside litter is a hot-button topic for many in the county. By im

“About the unsightly litter along Highway 101 in Marin, the term third world definitely comes to mind,”

“What an eyesore,”

Mill Valley residents

Stephen Fein and Maren Kinscher wrote us last fall.

added Beverly Armstrong via email.

“I’ve long been aware of the disgusting look of our roadsides,” chimed in Gaille Grissom of Corte Madera in November.

“Surely something can be done, but what?”

Those were just a few of the comments Marin Magazine received in response to our column “Talking Weeds and Trash” (POV, July 2012), about the unsightly roadsides, particularly along Highway 101, in Marin. No other topic — gun violence, the death penalty or global warming — generated such reader response.

Realizing we had hit on a hot-button topic, we decided to explore further to find out why such messy conditions exist and what, if anything, can be done about them.

The Problem

ON ANY GIVEN DAY, a quick glance along Highway 101 reveals strips of plastic waving in the breeze, chunks of Styrofoam collected in ditches, scattered scraps of innocuous white paper and often a slice of truck tire or a derelict mattress. Many who are angered by such sightings say Marin’s roadsides are more litter-strewn than any other they’ve ever driven along. A nd it is not just litter — many Marinites are equally critical of the weeds that seem to grown unabated along the county’s main artery. The primary o ender is fennel, a tall and hardy nonnative plant with the somewhat appropriate botanical name Foeniculum vulgare. Weeds and debris seem to proliferate along the roadsides of otherwise beautiful and bucolic Marin County. Why?

N ARROW SHOULDER S I n the late 1930s, soon after the G olden Gate Bridge opened, the Marin Conservation League led a successful movement to ban billboards from ever appearing along U.S. Highway 101. (Highway 101 is federally owned but maintained by the California Department of Transportation, or Caltrans, in this state.) So one form of roadside blight was prevented. I n the second half of the 20th century, though, Marin’s population grew and its tra c increased, so Highway 101 had to be widened (for more on this period, see Looking Back, page 178).

When that happened, Highway 101’s shoulders in many stretches became extremely narrow, hazardously so. “In Marin County, it’s estimated that more than 40 percent of 101’s shoulders, on both sides of the highway, are dangerously narrow; which makes it difficult to get crews in to do litter removal and control vegetation,” says A rnold Joe, a maintenance manager for

Caltrans District 4 in Oakland. That restriction adds greatly to the cost of upkeep, he notes: “To work in these dangerous areas, we have to bring in special equipment and close o a lane — so it’s not what you’d call routine maintenance. This kind of work disrupts tra c and we get complaints about that.”

BUDGET

CUT S It’s no secret that since 2008 Caltrans, which has more than 20,000 employees and 50,000 miles of highways to maintain statewide, has su ered its share of budget cuts. According to the agency’s o cial website (dot.ca.gov), the 2008 operating budget was $14.3 billion; in fiscal year 2013 it was $11.2 billion — a reduction of more than 20 percent. As a result, Caltrans now has fewer personnel working at the local level in Marin. “Basically, we have only eight men responsible for litter collection and vegetation control on California state highways in both Sonoma and Marin counties,” says Chad Klein, area superintendent at Caltrans’ district maintenance o ce in Petaluma. “A nd that’s not only Highway 101, but also Highways 1, 131, 580 and 37. A ll told, that’s more than 125 miles of roadside maintenance.”

CAN C ELED AGREEMENT What about inmates from nearby San Quentin State Prison performing litter removal work on Highway 101? A n interagency agreement between the two departments no longer exists, says Caltrans spokesperson Bob Haus. “A t first glance, you’d think it would provide personnel and save money at the same time,” he recently said, “but after you add in the costs of security requirements, safety and transportation and providing meals for inmates while they’re working, the cost advantages quickly disappear.”

Marin County, Highway 101

55.2 Total shoulder miles in both directions

18.7 Total northbound adoptable miles (8.9 miles unadoptable)

13.4 Total southbound adoptable miles (14.2 miles unadoptable)

58 Percentage of total adoptable miles

42 Percentage of total unadoptable miles

Possible Solutions

“God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the di erence.” Right, that’s Reinhold Niebuhr’s Serenity Prayer. But it’s somewhat applicable to the problem of weeds and litter along Highway 101 in Marin. The highway’s narrow shoulders that make proper maintenance both dangerous and pricey in all likelihood cannot ever be altered. That accounts for 32.1 miles of Marin’s 55.2 miles of Highway 101.

And although California’s financial health appears to be on the mend, it isn’t realistic to place cleaning up roadsides in a uent Marin ahead of K-12 education, police and fire services, higher education, health and human services or even repaving of aging roadbed surfaces (although the latter has just been achieved in one stretch, on both sides of Highway 101 between the Golden Gate Bridge and Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, to the tune of $21 million).

That said, what can be done to make the roadsides of Highway 101 in Marin as attractive as possible? Here are some suggestions:

CONTAC T CALTRANS The past month has seen a flurry of maintenance activity on 101’s roadsides in southern Marin.

Broken signs were replaced, battered chain-link fences were repaired, neglected bottlebrush plants were trimmed, and many of the grassy expanses of the Tiburon Boulevard/East Blithedale Avenue interchange were mowed. Quite possibly (no one seems to know for sure) this action was spurred by a letter of concern from Ray McDevitt, a retired attorney living in Strawberry, to Caltrans Director Malcolm Dougherty in Sacramento. In any event, Caltrans crews, along with those of Conservation Corps of the North Bay, a Caltrans contractor, worked for more than a week on both sides of Highway 101.

“I used to represent cities and counties, so I have an inkling of how to get through to people who make things happen,” McDevitt recently confided. “And being overly critical isn’t it.” In his letter he matter-of-factly acknowledged the recent resurfacing of 101, then wrote of damaged directional signs, gaps in landscaping, damaged fencing and excessive litter; he enclosed color photos as evidence. “Like any large organization, Caltrans is a bureaucracy and can’t possibly know of every condition existing everywhere in the vast area it serves,” he says. “I don’t know if my letter resulted in this impressive response, but things sure look better along 101 in southern Marin.”

Although McDevitt sent his letter to Caltrans’ Sacramento office, it’s more efficient (according to an agency spokesperson) to address such mail to Bijan Sartipi, Director, Caltrans District 4, P.O. Box 23660, Oakland, CA 94623. You can also phone the main number for Caltrans District 4 at 510.286.4444 or go online to dot.ca.gov/dist4.

VOLUNTEER E FFORTS While more than 40 percent of Highway 101’s shoulders in Marin are deemed too dangerous to maintain without closing o a lane, that leaves nearly 60 percent, more than 32 miles, that have wide enough shoulders to allow personnel to enter and remove litter. The nationwide volunteer program Adopt-A-Highway (started in 1989) — which either pays Caltrans-approved contractors or sends employee volunteers to do such labor — has a lot of road to work with. Throughout California some 12,700 people representing more than 2,700 businesses and civic groups participate in Adopt-A-Highway; in Marin, Mollie Stone’s Market, McGinnis Golf Center and Golden State Lumber, among others, take responsibility for clearing litter from safe stretches of 101. Caltrans posts signs along the highway indicating these entities’ civic commitment. So the next time you do business with a sponsoring organization, assuming their areas are reasonably litter-free, let them know you appreciate the e ort.

In Novato, Kirk Rockwell, a San Rafael chiropractor, cleans a two-mile swath of 101’s roadside litter on a regular basis. “I go out at least once a month,” he said in a recent interview. “The Adopt-A-Highway signs Caltrans put up gave me name recognition, and I feel I’m giving back to my community while getting the satisfaction of completing a meaningful task.” In addition to posting signs, Caltrans provided Rockwell with a hard hat, safety goggles, work gloves, a litter snatcher and plastic trash bags. “And they provided a short course in safety procedures that was very e ective,” Rockwell adds.

FUTURE VOLUNTEERS To make the e orts in Marin as e ective as possible, Caltrans requests that people wishing to assist Adopt-A-Highway contact a newly created local entity, Marin Clean Highways (marincleanhighways.blogspot.com).

It was founded by southern Marin residents Jill Whitebook and Vicky Dehnert, who live close to Highway 101 and “are determined to do whatever we can to make Marin look as litter-free as possible,” Dehnert says. The blog provides news on cleanup projects and procedures and charts progress. “We’re waging a personal campaign against litter,” says Whitebook, “so we know whom to call to get things done.” Potential volunteers can also email Dehnert at marincleanhighways@gmail.com.

When volunteers o er to pitch in, Marin Clean Highways will coordinate with Caltrans to either assign them to a particular stretch of highway or team up interested parties

with existing Adopt-A-Highway volunteer groups to remove unsightly refuse. “We’ll make the training and equipping as easy as possible,” says Dehnert, “so people living in Marin can make Highway 101’s roadsides more attractive.”

In addition to roadsides, entire freeway interchanges are available for volunteer adoption, thanks to a recently initiated Caltrans program. “This will be an ideal way for shopping centers or businesses that front the freeway to get involved,” McDevitt says. “They’ll have signage announcing the sponsorship near the interchange and, with a minimum of e ort, the surrounding area will look a heck of a lot better.”

CONTRIBUTING F UNDS If you or your company would rather cut a check than whack down weeds or pick up trash, contact Dehnert and Whitebook. “For $250, California Highway Adoption Company, a Northern California corporation approved by Caltrans, will send out a crew to do a once-a-month cleanup of a two-mile segment of Highway 101,” Dehnert says. “And for $800, a crew will spend the entire day picking up litter along Highway 101, assuming the stretches have shoulders deemed safe to enter — all you have to do is, pardon the expression, ‘show me the money,’ and we’ll make it happen.” m

THE REMODEL REVISITED

Now is the time to dust off those design plans and tackle that big project.

BY SOMER FLAHERTY

AME R ICA NSAREE XP ECTED to spend $134 billion on home remodeling through the first half of 2013, according to the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University. Reinvigorated home sales, better price gains and lower financing costs are leading experts to predict double-digit growth in remodel spending.

Although the typical home remodel in Marin takes anywhere from three months to a year or more, the time investment and even the possible need to move out during construction hasn’t scared o customers, says Barbara Chambers, of Mill Valley’s Chambers + Chambers architecture firm. After being in the doldrums, property values are beginning to inch up to confidence-boosting levels — giving home owners a reason (or excuse) to return to that kitchen remodel idea or extra bedroom dream. Americans seem ready to loosen the purse strings and show a little love for that condo, town house, cottage or mega-mansion.

Tax breaks have also encouraged remodels. A catchall break written into the fiscal cliff deal, valid through 2013 and called the non-business energy property tax credit, gives a home owner up to $500 o

for energy-efficient improvements such as putting in new heat-retaining doors or windows. The credit is 10 percent of the cost of the building materials, with eligible maximums depending on type of material or product — a new furnace might bring a di erent credit than dual-pane windows.

If the financials don’t persuade you to get going, perhaps an easier submittal process will. If you’ve gone through a remodel in Marin before, chances are you (or your design team) have spent countless hours at the planning and building counter in the Civic Center Administration Building. But long lines and even longer approval waits could be a thing of the past. Seeking to “improve customer success with the permitting process,” says Bill Kelley, deputy director of building and safety for Marin’s Community Development Agency, the department now o ers four types of permitting services for remodels: overtime plan review, in which a sta er reviews plans after hours and negotiable overtime charges are then added to the fees; traditional over-the-counter permitting, Monday through Thursday; express permitting on Wednesdays; and e-permitting, wherein photos can be emailed from a job site to the building and safety division for review. Express permitting and e-permitting for certain building permit applications could allow same-day plan review for small projects. The department seems to be taking its commitment to customer service seriously: recently it unveiled a YouTube video explaining the building permit options (check it out on the Marin G-Channel).

Have we talked you into it yet? Here’s some firsthand remodeling advice from local experts.

construction

“A lot of times contractors get a bad rap,” says Greg Shank, a project manager at San Rafael’s Fontana Construction. “Most of the ones I know are good people and work hard.” Still, Shank says, prospective remodelers should pose three good questions to assess whether the contractor is a good fit. “You should always ask how they would handle a challenge and how they would resolve a problem,” he suggests. “Construction is problem solving, especially in remodels.” Shank, who has been in the industry for 15 years, says it’s also important to ask for references and even go on a house tour to see some of the contractor’s past projects. Visit one similar in scope to the remodel you’re planning.

Another important step is determining up front how much time you can commit to the project. “There’s a vast di erence between just remodeling a kitchen or adding on a den or a family room,” Shank points out. “Just a kitchen can take three to four months to remodel, and each room you add to the project will extend that timeline.” It may make sense to consider cosmetic improvements rather than a complete demo: “If you

can keep the electric and plumbing locations the same — for example, keep the kitchen sink where it is — that will definitely cut down on the time it takes to complete the remodel,” he notes. “You can also give cabinets and drawers new faces instead of a complete overhaul. A good face-lift compared to just gutting a whole area can cut your timeline in half.”

Budget-conscious remodelers should focus improvement e orts on areas of the home where they spend the most time.

“These days,” Shank says, “we are actually seeing many clients spending more money on the outside of their homes — remodeling a backyard, for example. We have such great weather in Marin that you can spend a lot of your time outside, year round.”

the architect

“Bring in an architect as soon as you decide you want to remodel,” Chambers suggests. “Home owners aren’t usually aware of what they can and can’t do from a construction standpoint as well as a zoning and code standpoint. It can get very complicated. Even a simple bedroom addition may not be possible based on zoning guidelines for a particular area.”

When choosing an architect, she adds, ask to see projects the fi rm has designed that are similar in type and size to yours, and look for an architect who has personal confidence. “It’s paramount for an easy, smooth process.” Research

architects based on the past work they have done; their design style is just as important as their experience and knowledge. Above all, “understand your goals and your budget, and then communicate those desires,” she says. “A good architect is a good listener, and only when the client has outlined his or her issues can an architect address them and translate those wishes into great architecture.”

the interior esi ner

If Tiburon interior designer Ruth Livingston has her way, interior designers are working with a client at the very beginning of a remodeling project. “The interior designer will focus on how the clients live in their space, what activities are taking place and what their specific needs are,” she says. “This input leads to where the furniture will be placed, which is valuable input for the architect in choosing the location for doors and windows.” An avid card player, for instance, “would need a card table, which may be located near a window, which would determine the window size and height and subsequently the lighting that would need to be placed over that table.” For clients who watch a lot of videos or TV, a living room remodel should account for glare.

A common challenge for couples in a remodel is negotiating di erent design aesthetics. Perhaps he loves the feel of a great Eichler, and she feels more at home in a rustic Stinson cottage. “It’s important to include everyone’s wishes in the design concept,” Livingston says, “and one way to do this is to allocate one room to a spouse that will be completely di erent from the rest of the house, but will represent that person’s own style and be his or her own retreat.”

Technology like CAD virtual programs allows designers to show what a remodeled space will look like before any work is done. “It can help clients see how their spaces would look with di erent details and di erent color schemes,” Livingston says.

Whether you’re doing a one-room overhaul or a yearlong transformation, experts agree, planning early and choosing an appropriately experienced design team is key. Do your homework, and you’ll be more than pleased in the end — happy when it’s over, happy with the results. m

For complete home renovation listings searchable by city and category, visit marinmagazine.com/homerenovation.

It’s important to ask for references and even go on a house tour to see some of the contractor’s past projects.

Home Renovation Guide

PATIOWORLD

Patioworld offers California’s largest selection of premium outdoor furnishings and accessories. We’ll help you create a unique look for your outdoor living space, with comfort and quality guaranteed to last. Plus, all of our furniture is in stock and ready for immediate delivery!

We have the largest outdoor furniture showrooms in California, where you’ll find a wide array of distinctive sling, cast, woven, and teak furniture collections. You can also find one-of-a-kind accessories to complement any living space. Every collection is customized by our professional design teams to bring you the very latest in cutting-edge trends from around the world.

Dream it… Live it…

530 Francisco Blvd West San Rafael, CA

info@patioworld.net 1.888.77.Patio patioworld.net

Our exquisite showrooms feature an extensive assortment of exclusive products under our own private label. In 2001, we proudly launched The Patioworld Classics Collection, a unique brand of outdoor furniture designed exclusively for you, only from us. Our products are assembled by the world’s leading manufacturers, and we are committed to ensuring that every piece of furniture in our private label is of the highest standard and quality.

Serving California for more than 40 years, Patioworld has a long-standing and well-deserved reputation for delivering the highest quality products with outstanding customer service. We’ll make relaxing in your backyard as comfortable as your living room. You haven’t seen outdoor furniture until you’ve visited a Patioworld showroom.

Come take a look!

Alliance Custom Builders

DeSiGN/BUiLD remODeLiNG SPeCiaLiStS

Inspiring design solutions coupled with quality materials and expert craftsmanship are cornerstones of Alliance Custom Builders’ success. Whether your project is large or small, indoors or out, owners Steve Andre and Chris Chapek will help you realize your home’s potential using their proven design/build approach.

Their ability to understand a client’s wishes and needs, combined with extensive product and construction knowledge, produces creative and timeless designs that are as functional as they are beautiful. Because Alliance is your contractor as well as your designer there is only one point of contact for your entire project, with no excuses or duplication of efforts. You will receive accurate project costs with efficient scheduling and ultimately, peace of mind and years of enjoyment.

Visit their website for inspiration and to learn more about Alliance Custom Builders. Contact them today to schedule a free consultation.

415.893.0408 • Novato, CA alliancecustombuilders.com

Roto-Rooter Plumbers

Locally owned and operated, we have been serving Marin County for 56 years. Our trusted company offers full-service residential and commercial plumbing. Our licensed and insured plumbers deliver fast, dependable, guaranteed service 24 hours a day. For a full list of services visit our Facebook page to connect with Marin Roto-Rooter and get helpful tips, promotions and more!

885 Olive Ave., Suite D · Novato, CA 415.898.2700 · facebook.com/marinrotorooter

CERAMIC TILE DESIGN

it’S tHe ti Le…

846 W. Francisco Blvd.

San Rafael, CA

415.485.5180

189 Thirteenth Street

San Francisco, CA

415.575.3785

ceramictiledesign.net

Ceramic Tile Design has been a fixture in the Bay Area for 30 years, perhaps because our gorgeous showroom, extensive offerings of unique tiles, and helpful design staff have kept us ahead of the competition. We also supply our products to other tile showrooms throughout California and offer a full service commercial A&D department.

CTD works directly with more than 70 diverse factories in Italy, the US, and worldwide. Take a look at some of our extensive offerings: Our US tile collections include Trikeenan, Pratt & Larson, Sonoma Tilemakers, McIntyre, Encore, and Ken Mason Tile, to name just a few. Historic tiles include Rookwood and the Hearst Castle Collection. Our numerous glass lines include Oceanside Glasstile and the best in fine Italian glass tile, like Bisazza and Sicis. We also stock stone tile and slabs, including travertines, limestones, and slates.

CTD leads the industry in bringing Green products to Northern California. As a member of both the USGBC and Build It Green, six members of our design team are certified in one or both of these organizations. We distribute all four of the leading Green countertop products: IceStone, PaperStone, Squak Mountain, and Trinity Glass.

If you haven’t visited our showroom recently, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. Be prepared to enjoy a huge selection of beautiful, unique tile in stone, ceramic, glass, metal, wood, porcelain, and durable surfaces, plus the best in recycled and renewable products.

Room & Board

C LaSSiC C ONtemPOrarY HOme F UrNiS H iNGS

For more than 30 years, Room & Board has focused on the simple idea that good design should be beautiful, affordable and long-lasting. We work closely with American artisans to offer furniture and accessories—even custom pieces—that fit the needs of modern life. We’re proud that over 90 percent of the products we sell are handcrafted in the U.S. to give customers the best combination of quality and price.

The Painters Place

Starting in 1966, The Painters Place has been finely crafting and designing picture frames in the Bay Area. We set ourselves apart by understanding and executing a higher level of craft. One of our skilled designers can come to your home or office to discuss the specific needs of your project. We also have the capabilities to pick-up and deliver art pieces on all scales for your convenience. Trust our extensive expertise and skill for all your framing needs. 1139 . a olia Ave • a u , CA

California Closets

DiSCOver v irtUOSO

12 Sir Francis Drake Blvd. Larkspur, CA 415.255.1200 californiaclosets.com

The Virtuoso Collection from California Closets brings contemporary, European style to any space in any home. Its strong horizontal lines and rich Lago® Italian finishes make a dramatic statement in any space where a clean, modern look of a luxury closet is desired.

This linear system, free of vertical partitions, is as sturdy as it is contemporary and striking. Bold, clean lines are reminiscent of classic, mid-century modern design, but updated to satisfy sophisticated tastes of today and beyond.

The Virtuoso system mounts directly to your wall, eliminating the need for visible vertical supports. Horizontal lines create a smooth visual flow. Your new system appears to float, creating an open feeling with clear sight lines.

The Virtuoso collection features our exclusive Lago® finishes. Your Design Consultant can help you pick the perfect look for your home and lifestyle. Our Consultants are trained to work with you to create the most stylish and perfect space for your home while blending with your existing décor.

The Virtuoso Collection reflects your good taste and success. You deserve luxury closets, media centers, and more throughout your home. Schedule a free, no obligation design consultation today and let California Closets bring your home into step with your lifestyle.

Pedersen Associates

e

two years in the Landscape Design and Renovation category. Pete Pedersen and his team have extensive experience in both t e e tate e i e tial a

ial a

iali e in creating timeless and environmentally sustainable outdoor living areas featuring design elements that complement and e

Hennessey Construction

Our ability to work closely with our clients to satisfy their goals in a timely, budget-conscious manner has defined the client satisfaction we are known for. With 25 years in t e i u t , e e e C o t u tio a ive e o e t experience - small and large - interior and exterior. We also offer design-build and permitting services in partnership with i Do A

Charles M Stewart Architects

For over 30 years, the firm has been collaborating with residential and commercial clients in Marin to create elegant, durable and useful architecture. Working on both contemporary and historic homes, our LEED certifies professionals help serve our clients’ needs through careful listening, clear communication and the effective use of advanced technology. Tour your new home before it is built with our new Pre-Vis animation software.

CA

Purcell Murray

CS taiNLeSS S teeL StYLe. i Nt r ODUCiNG mGS FaUCetS.

ombining exquisite Italian design and exacting Swiss engineering, MGS faucets are a fusion of passion and precision. But in addition to their exquisite styling, they offer a tremendous functional benefit: they are made entirely from stainless t eel. A t at i ti tio o e it a lo li t o benefits.

For example, stainless steel:

• D oe t a o i t

• D oe t a e o e o e i olo e ov e ti e

• e i t a t e ia o e e e tiv el t a a o la ti

• 100 e la le

Moreover, unlike many of its competitors, MGS has never invested in mass production as a means o a u a tu i a te o ea e A t o e uncompromising standards are shared by distributor Purcell Murray. Which is why Purcell Murray is proud to bring you these flawless fixtures through an unparalleled et o o eale t ou out C ali o ia. a t to o o e Call

800.89 .4040, o vi it o e o ou o oo

u ti to ea , CA • Sa a i o, CA

800.89 .4040 • u ell u a . o

Black’s Farmwood

Black’s Farmwood is a leading provider of the finest available reclaimed wide plank wood flooring, rustic paneling, weathered barn siding, antique wood beams and more. Perfect for your one-of-a-kind remodel, new construction, green building project or historic restoration. We also build custom furniture, as seen by this conference table built with beams reclaimed from a San Francisco cannery, circa 1880.

Kari Cusack Design

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a i C u a D e i o i a oa a e o t le , al a striving to interpret the goals and needs of our clients and deliver beyond expectations. We bring a fresh, unique and creative approach to transforming your space while respecting the architecture of your home. With a background i a io , a i i o o e i e uit a att e tio to etail Ou oal i to olla o at e it ou lie t to eali e their vision of how they wish to live, work and play.

415. 8 . 4 4 • i u o , CA karicusackdesign.com

Fontana Construction, Inc

Fontana Construction Inc is a General Contracting Company specializing in new custom homes, residential renovations and light commercial projects. Providing quality service from San Francisco to Sonoma and Napa Counties, and beyond for over 26 years. Pre-construction consultation, value engineering, detailed estimate, project management, and craftsmanship is standard on every project.

Linda Banks Interiors

AN S N O S o e o let e e i e vi e o residential, real estate staging, to one-day room makeovers. Whether enhancing existing design elements or creating new ones, Linda works with her clients to create inspired, personalized, one of a kind interiors. Creating rooms that not o l u tio , ut O

consultation.

Sandra Bird Designs

Need a creative way to disguise not so pretty necessities, like your washer dryer? Want your space to look and feel clean and aesthetically pleasing? Sandra Bird Designs can assist you. Maintaining architectural integrity while maximizing space and beauty, is a priority for the designers at Sandra Bird Designs. Need two islands in an active cook’s kitchen, a four sided work area command center surrounding an existing pipe chase, or a laundry area hidden by a beautifully carved door? Sandra Bird and her team can complete the entire project from initial drawings to final construction. Photographer: Dennis Anderson

To see more inspiration and to whet your appetite, visit www.sandrabird.com or discover them on Facebook, HOUZZ, or Cultivate.

Kasten Builders

mODerN HOme maSter BUiLDerS

Clean lines, innovative use of materials, expansive openings, and an expression of structure that connects to the outdoors are all hallmarks of a modern home. Hidden underneath the aesthetic of simplicity are a series of intricate building systems, carefully integrated by the modern home construction experts of Kasten Builders.

Contact Pete or Denny Kasten for a personalized building experience.

Sara’s List

FUrNitUre. SeLL FUrNitUre.

Sara’s List is a unique online classified listing service for fine home furnishings and décor. The listings found on Sara’s List are from top Bay Area designers, home stagers, re-sale stores and individuals. Browse online for gently used designer and brand name items, plus a variety of vintage and antique pieces, available at a fraction of retail.

Chet Stromberg

SOLarCra Ft SO LareNerGY S YS temS

Born and raised in Mill Valley, it has been my life’s passion to i ola o e to a i . it ov e 500 o e t i talle , my clients are excited by slashing their electric bills while remaining true to Marin’s vision of sustainable development. I am dedicated to fostering a responsible environmental ethic while providing attractive investment opportunity. Kindly call me for a consultation. SolarCraft – Helping Marin Go Solar Since 1984 t o

Shahin Rug Gallery

Serving customers since 1995, we have recently moved our locations from Wisconsin to Northern and Southern California. Our strong craftsman relationships enable us to offer beautiful custom rugs at reasonable prices. We have worked hard to earn the reputation we are proud to have. If you need a new beautiful rug or a trusted source for repair and cleaning services, please call on us. Free pick up and delivery.

McRoskey Mattress Company

LUsing only the finest materials and techniques that have ee eti

creates beds so irresistible that owners refuse to sleep on anything else. St

Lamperti Contracting & Design

Lamperti provides complete design/build services, specializing in kitchens and baths. As a factory authorized dealer for Bentwood, Columbia, Custom Cupboards and WoodMode cabinetry, we offer fine cabinetry for every taste and budget. You will find that we provide outstanding value for your remodel dollar. Our designers and craftsmen take pride in our attention to detail for every phase of your project.

FloorOnLine, Inc. Mario Bravo Floors

Flooronline owns and operates a 2,000 sf flooring showroom in The Vineyard Business Park in San Rafael. Mario Bravo has been installing hardwood floors for 25 years and runs one of the premiere installation companies in the North Bay. Mario and Terry’s 45 years of combined experience in the flooring industry guarantees you an outstanding outcome for your next flooring project. “Quality – Value Priced”

with the goal of instilling quality and substance from the conceptual design through the final details. The sequencing of how one experiences the interior and exterior of a residence is an essential element. We endeavor to accomplish this by utilizing a balance of drama and tranquility while creating beauty unique to the needs and dreams of our clients.

Artistic Lighting & Electric

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u i e o 40 ea , A ti ti i ti le t i i

o e o t e a A ea o t e e ie e ull e vi e li ti a ele t i al o t a ti i A o t e

i lie t o a ve e t u te A ti ti i ti with the design and installation of comprehensive lighting systems for their luxury residences are some

o t e o t i i i ati a ell o a t a e te tai e t e o alitie , i te C O a o t

i u e i t e a A ea.

o a o le a eative li ti te e ui e o i ti ate o t ol t at o ti i e ea e o u e a elia ilit A ti ti i ti le t i ille ,

o e io al t ea a i e t u e ta i o u e t lighting control technology and its implementation, supporting all of the major lighting controls a u a tu e ut o , Sa va t o e l it e ou a a ta e e i o vi e ot o l lo v olta e installations but also has the C10 certification enabling t e i te atio o ou i v olta e a li atio it your control systems.

i ti e i a o ultatio • C o t ol • C o t a ti tallatio • ai te a e a t ou le ooti

85 el a i e lv ., Suite • Novato, CA

415.38 .9500 • a ti ti li ti o . o

Buildergirl Design & Construction

Tina Marie Humphrey specializes in Storybook and Cottage homes. Her 24 years experience as a designer and General Contractor coupled with a female perspective, provide her a deep understanding of how people use their homes, and a keen eye for creating inviting living spaces and wonderful curb appeal.

buildergirl.com

.1 99 • ill alle , CA

WESCON SHOTCRETE CONCRETE

Our reputation is based on our ability to succeed with elegant and modern residential projects. In the last decade, as more builders have come to appreciate the advantages of concrete flatwork and structural concrete, WESCON has pioneered the development of pneumatic concrete placement techniques. (SHOTCRETE) The results have been consistent, high quality, and cost effective concrete installations. Your home designers will love the results.

Home

is a central part of any home. Our owner Steve Cuvin and his knowledgeable staff work with architects, designers, contractors and homeowners to help beautify and heat your space. We carry a wide range of gas fireplaces, inserts, stoves as well as high end outdoor barbecues and fire pit components to fit every taste.

to

unique environments that are as comfortable and practical as they are beautiful.

In our showroom, we offer a full range of home furnishings, accessories, lighting, textiles and floor coverings, as well as interior and exterior design services. Visit us at our Cabana Home.

AvidGreen Fine Landscaping

EDeSiGNS, BUiL D S aN D maiNtaiNS S PeCiaL G ar D eNS

nhance your garden and life. Make your garden the cherished refuge you always wanted. We passionately & expertly improve gardens to spark deep pleasure every day of the year. AvidGreen builds beautiful, sustainable gardens.

Interweave majestic, native trees with beautiful, fragrant ornamentals with flowering and productive fruit trees, seasonal vegetables, and fresh culinary herbs. Attract birds, bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Grow citrus, apples, plums, blueberries, strawberries, tomatoes, and lettuces. We listen carefully to meet and exceed expectations.

2011 & 2012 First-Place Winner for Design-Build from the California Landscape Contractors Association.

UCD M.S. in Horticulture & Viticulture, Bay-Friendly and Green-Building Certified, Winner of MMWD’s Waterwise Landscaping Contest, Certified Arborist.

Avi ee S olutio

at evolve in color and spectacle year-round.

Muny Woodwork

DeD iCate D t O tHe Cra Ft

For more than 30 years Muny Woodwork has offered its clients the highest quality in fine woodwork and design. From traditional to contemporary styles, we custom-build exquisite kitchens, handcrafted furniture, and architectural woodwork. We have also provided sustainable building solutions since 1992. We look forward to the opportunity to enhance your home with fine woodwork and cabinets built with a dedication to the craft.

344 a i i a • Sau alit o, CA 415.9 .1 50 • u oo o . o

Destinations

THE LATEST LOCAL TRAVEL DEALS AND GETAWAYS PLUS JOURNEYS AROUND THE GLOBE

BY E.C. GLADSTON E

Y“OU GET THE feeling this whole thing was set up to be a girls’ weekend?” That’s what I overhear one 40-ish guy say to another as they take a break from their significant others at a table in the Four Seasons Scottsdale. It’s a refrain you hear often enough, that vacations are designed for what the women want, nothing for the men.

Funny thing is, I can’t imagine a better getaway for guys than Scottsdale, whether you go as part of a couple or on a group holiday. First of all, the Phoenix, Ariz., suburb may be the world’s mecca for award-winning golf courses (more than 50), and the array of other outdoor and indoor diversions, both indulgent and invigorating, would make a very long bucket list. Hiking, biking, o -roading, tennis, steaks, cigars, sports bars — just about everything men love is here, and there’s a lot of it, within a patchwork of well-designed resorts.

One of my favorites — not just in Scottsdale, but anywhere — is a place called The Boulders. The resort, with 36 Jay Morrish–designed holes, is built among an amazing natural gathering of 12-millionyear-old rock formations (hole 5 of the South Course is one you’ll remember for a long time) among which dozens of indigenous plant

species fluourish while wildlife like quail and peccary roam freely. It’s just a great place to be. You’ll get a real urge to climb those rocks (yes, you can) but you can also try day and night biking and the extensive o erings of the Waldorf-Astoria (formerly Golden Door) spa, where I enjoyed a vigorous ashiatsu massage that worked out kinks I didn’t know I had. Close by, the Four Seasons Resort is similarly designed to harmonize with the landscape, the redecorated rooms o ering a Southwestern version of the amenity level you’d expect from this luxury brand. Preferred tees are available at the adjoining Troon North course, and if you happen to have the family along, the “Kids For All Seasons” program here is top-notch. The resort’s

newest on-site restaurant, Proof, o ers creative comfort food (hello, bacon-wrapped meat loaf) and a wide beer, wine and cocktail selection in a fun room with shu eboard and an ice cream fountain. The Pinnacle Peak hiking trail leads right to the resort.

If there’s a serious golf geek in your group, Fairmont Princess is where you’ll want to stay. This sprawling resort overlooks TPC Scottsdale, home of the Phoenix Open, with dedicated black Ford Explorers to shuttle you. Play the Stadium Course (including the infamous 16th hole) or improve your game with the Tour Academy on the newer Champions Course and you may well run into one of the valley’s many resident pro tour golfers. Bragging rights are included.

The 65-acre resort features several pools, a tour-level tennis center, an “Adventures & Experiences” department, a year-round kids’ program and the elaborate Willow Stream Spa. Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak restaurant is a must (and wagyu flatiron and the deconstructed carrot cake are not to be missed), but you might also want to grab a drink and a bite at La Hacienda by Richard Sandoval, which has a selection of more than 100 tequilas.

I expected the Montelucia Resort, evoking classical Spain, to attract mostly couples, so romantic is the open plaza with Moorish details. In fact, when I visited there were more guys here — sharing cigars in the plaza or beers at the bar — than at any other Scottsdale

resort I’ve been to (maybe because they o er spring training packages and the like). Standard rooms are particularly spacious — almost 500 square feet — and the Joya spa is as dramatic as they get. Restaurant Prado combines seasonal local ingredients and European inspirations to great e ect (velvety steelhead trout, rich vegetable risotto). If you choose this one, tell the ladies it was “dull.” Otherwise, they will demand you bring them back immediately, as they should.

Finally, if history and design are among your interests, nothing will top a stay at the singular Arizona Biltmore (technically in Phoenix). Inspired by architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the deco-era hotel combines luxury with a sort of stylish simplicity that is great for

resetting one’s compass. Manicured grounds include a famous huge chessboard, a putting “course” and other fun surprises. Facing the hotel’s entrance, the Arizona Biltmore Golf Club may be less fresh than others, but while you can brag to have played the same greens as Phil Mickelson or Tiger Woods at some, here it’s Clark Gable’s score you’re looking to beat.

And when the inevitable “Why Scottsdale?” question comes up, fear not. Around the calendar, in addition to spring training, the Phoenix area hosts the Fiesta Bowl, the Phoenix Open, the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction, several NASCAR events at the Phoenix International Raceway and no shortage of cowboy and Native American doings. You know, boy stu . m

Hawaiian Waters Call

THE GOAL OF many adventure-seeking visitors to the Hawaiian Islands is to stand up on that lālahalaha (rising swell), mug for the camera mid-pae (catch a wave) and then pae i ka nalu (ride a wave to shore) onto the white sandy beach. It was easy enough for Keanu Reeves’ character Johnny Utah in the movie Point Break, Greg Brady on a Brady Bunch vacation and even the animated dog character in Scooby-Doo to hang ten within a week of learning to surf. If they can do it, you can too, right? Wrong. The reality is most of us can’t just pick up wave-riding in a few lessons. The good news is there’s a variety of water sports for every type of athlete as well as plenty of brightly colored rafts for those who choose to simply float. While mastery of surfing, windsurfing or even stand-up paddleboarding in one week might be out of the question, giggles, adventure and pure joy are well within reach.

First of all, “one needs to set expectations and be safe,” recommends Dave Wells, coowner of 101 Surf Sports in San Rafael. Wells travels to the islands (usually Maui or Kauai) twice a year and was joined by wife Emily and daughter Haile on the last few trips. An avid windsurfer, Wells grew up sailing in San Francisco and looks forward to getting out onto the warm island waves. “We’ve all heard about the physical benefits of being in these waters, whether you’re just floating [to relieve stress] or working on balance [which can help stave o Alzheimer’s and dementia],” he says. “But for me it’s a return to simplicity — the warmth of the Hawaiian waters and gentle breezes can be compared to the womb. Not that I remember being in one, but I’m guessing the relaxation factor is comparable.”

Such bliss, of course, can come to a screeching halt if you’re trying to bring the whole family into the mix. Wells recommends hiring a professional instructor. While it was hard to pay for something he could do himself, “professional instruction is well worth it,” he says. B esides the benefit of preventing tension between spouses, “your kids will usually buck up when a teacher is telling them something as opposed to Dad — and they are less likely to complain.”

Whether your family is planning to master a skill or simply de-stress in the tropical waters, you’re sure to return home from Hawaii recalibrated and recharged. m

Words for Waves

Eskimos have names to describe almost any type of snow. Not surprisingly, the Hawaiian language contains many di erent words to describe surf.

kakala, lala, lauloa, muku – various types of surf

kua nalu – surf just before breaking point

kai po’i – breaking surf

he’e, he’e nalu – to surf

he’e pu’ewai – to surf the mouth of a stream

pae – to mount or catch a wave

pae i ka nalu – surf rider

kaha nalu, he’e umauma – bodysurfing nalu, nanu, ‘ale – ocean waves

kai pi’i, eaea, huia – high waves

kai emi, kai he’e, nalu miki – receding wave

nalu kua loloa, lauloa, ‘onaulu loa – long wave

huia – a surfing wave

nalu ha’i lala – a wave that breaks diagonally nalu muku, muku – broken section of the wave

nalunalu – rough wave

honua nalu – base of a breaker

‘opi nalu – bend of a wave

hokua – tip of high waves

We’re 2,400 miles from the mainland and a million miles from anywhere else.

Welcome to Aulani. A family paradise with a touch of magic. There’s no place else quite like Aulani. It was designed just for families, by the people who know families best. So whether you’re spending a day in the calm, crystal blue waters of our beach or enjoying a peaceful spa afternoon while the kids are off on their own adventure, we’ve truly got something for everyone. To learn more, visit DisneyAulani.com or call 866-44-DISNEY or your Travel Agent.

©Disney AUL-13-25737

Island Schools and Rentals

OAHU

Hans Hedemann Surf School, hhsurf.com

Buttons Surf & SUP School, buttonssurfschool.com

Surf Academy by Dane Kealoha, dksurf.com

Ken Bradshaw, kenbradshaw.com

M AUI

Nancy Emerson Surf School, mauisurfclinics.com

Hawaiian Paddle Sports, hawaiianpaddlesports.com

Maui Wave Riders, mauiwaveriders.com

HST, hstwindsurfing.com

Neil Pryde, neilprydemaui.com

HAWAII, THE BIG ISLAND

Kona Boys, konaboys.com

Ian Foo, hyprnalu.com   Hulakai, hulakai.com

KAUAI

Hawaiian Surfing Adventures, hawaiiansurfingadventures.com

Titus Kinimaka, hawaiianschoolofsurfing.com

Dave’s Water Preparation Tips

CLOTHING Find quality gear that has SPF protection built in — the cheap so-called sun-screening threads don’t adequately block the rays.

H AT S All the cool kids have them. Seriously, get one you like and wear it in and out of the water.

SUN SC REEN Look for products that contain barrier ingredients like zinc or titanium dioxide — the other stuff won’t cut it.

SUNGLA SS ES Keep the spiffy for-looks pair in the car. For the beach, get good lenses: Kaenon, Maui Jim or Ray-Ban.

FEET Protect your feet with water shoes. The islands’ ABC stores sell inexpensive ones; just be

sure they have a thick sole. You don’t want to accidentally step on a sea urchin — it can ruin your trip.

T RAN SP ORT Planning on moving your boards around? Rent a van from a company like Al’s Vans on Maui. The weather or surf might be better a few miles up and you don’t want to be stuck.

SUP 1 The best time to get out there is before 11 a.m., before the wind picks up.

SUP 2 If you’re planning on trying stand-up paddleboarding, get a board with a big square tail and a

soft top and deck pads. Falling will be less painful and the kids will have a place to sit.

SUP 3 Put the athlete of the family on a smaller board to slow her down and, presto, the group is paddling together.

SU P 4 When balancing on an SUP keep your feet on either side of the handle in the middle with your toes in front and your heel behind the handle. If you stay on your knees, choke up on the paddle; don’t hold from the top. Finally, don’t take little steps on your board — small hops work better to keep the board level.

To stay in the luxury of The Fairmont Kea Lani’s oceanfront all-suites and villas is extraordinary. To stay four nights and get the fifth night free – that’s pure paradise.

the trouble withK2

Sometimes 30 years of experience isn’t enough to stave off a mountain of mishaps.

HAVE BEEN LEADING guided treks to remote regions such as Tibet, Pakistan and A fghanistan for more than 20 years, and there are very few times when I say to myself, You should have stayed home in Sausalito. But after walking the dry riverbed in the setting sun looking for our support team of 35 camels and 11 camel drivers I begin to think, this may be one of those times. It appears our camel team has disappeared again.

Our trip begins last October as I gather up the 16 clients who will be going on this G eoE x adventure and we prepare to leave Kashgar, a Chinese city close to the Pakistan border. It took two flights from B eijing to make it to this remote site in Western China — our group’s approach to the mountain known as K2. The mission is to use the northern approach from the Chinese side and make it to a camp on the mountain known as the advance base camp, a hike of about nine days requiring good health and the aid of camel teams to move supplies to the area, located at about 17,000 feet. We are not attempting a summit. K2, located on the border between Pakistan and China, is the second-highest mountain on earth — at 28,251 feet, behind Mount Everest — and one of the most dangerous to climb. It is sometimes called the “savage mountain” and has the second-highest fatality rate among those tall peaks known as the eightthousanders. It has never been climbed in the winter. My clients have previous trekking experience, have passed a “why do you want to go to K2” interview with me, are fit and have paid around $13,500 for the 27-day from-homeand-back-again trip.

The drive from Kashgar to the trailhead takes two days in Land Cruisers, and as soon as we arrive, late on the second day, after nine hours on the road, I immediately sense a problem. Nowhere do I see our camels or our support staff. A villager tells me that they will show up soon but they do not. I gather the group and we start sorting gear and setting up camp in the dark. I notice that the kitchen tent is a Chinese army tent — the type of tent you set up once and then wait for the war to end — and my heart sinks. Dinner will be at least 45 minutes away.

K2, located on the border between Pakistan and China, is the second-highest mountain on earth — at 28,251 feet, behind Mount Everest — and one of the most dangerous to climb.

The camels and drivers show up late the next morning and the arguments start immediately. “The duffels are too heavy,” “it is too cold,” “the sun will be too hot,” all excuses to get us to pay more than we had agreed. After years of haggling with Tibetan yak drivers and porters in Pakistan, I know a thing or two about negotiating matters such as these. Members of our group knew they were going to have quite an experience on this trip, but I don’t think they were ready for this.

Aghil Pass

O ur guide Devin and I finally work out an agreement with the camel drivers and we proceed without much fuss. The group is taking in the vacant moon-like landscapes and we are finally moving. At the end of the first two days we reach the first real challenge of the trip: the crossing of the Aghil Pass, at a little more than 15,000 feet. It will be the only real pass on the trip and we cross in good weather. There

are some wonderful views on the Chinese side but I guess I am jaded; I feel some of the views from the other possible route, the Pakistan side, are even more breathtaking. Still, it is nice to see the camel caravan coming over the pass and the group loves the vistas.

On the other side of the pass the trail drops down to a dry riverbed — unless you are there from May to August, in which case you would find a raging river — where the trail splits. Going right, you head to K2; left takes you to Gasherbrum, a remote group of peaks located at the northeastern end of the Baltoro Glacier. We make the turn to K2 and I am surprised to suddenly see three dogs, which then proceed to stay with us throughout the trip, crossing frigid rivers with strong currents and sleeping outside in the cold.

We continue on smoothly for the next few days, using camels and donkeys for some of the river crossings. There

are no villages on the way, just rocks, rocks and more rocks. The views are quite good, but not as spectacular as the approach along the Baltoro Glacier. What I find most interesting is the wild remoteness of the place — no other groups on the trail. In places like Nepal you have to race to get a camping spot.

Kulang Jilga

After three more days and that same number of discussions (arguments) with the camel drivers — by now becoming a daily routine — we arrive at Kulang Jilga, where we will stay for the next three days. The camp is in a cold and barren place on the plateau at almost 13,000 feet and the camel drivers are again becoming skittish. I start hearing talk of the men going home early, complaints of low food supply, not enough firewood, concern that the camels might wander o

What I find most interesting is the wild remoteness of the place — no other groups on the trail. In places like Nepal you have to race to get a camping spot.

— lots of excuses. But the mood among the adventure group is upbeat; they are in a place few get to see.

The next morning I decide to go up to see what conditions are like toward the Italian base camp, located at about 15,000 feet, and beyond to the advance base camp. The trail is steep but it feels good to be out exploring. I make it to a high spot where I can see the glacier that comes down the face of K2 and notice a new landslide. I decide to traverse the area to check conditions and I see that the trail is dry mud

our final night on the trail. We arrive in camp but the camels and drivers have gone ahead. The guide says they are just a half an hour out but again, I sense trouble. We hike for another two hours and finally find the camels and their drivers sunning themselves. I have a few words with the drivers and think, what a way to finish the trek. The next morning we walk another hour and at last see the Land Cruisers again. After many hugs and kisses, even some for the camel drivers, our group heads back to Kashgar.

The camp is in a cold and barren place on the plateau at almost 13,000 feet and the camel drivers are again becoming skittish.

with many cracks, very narrow, with a big drop on the side. One wrong step and you’re gone — there is no way camels or donkeys could navigate this, let alone those on the trek.

Some members of the group are disappointed to not be able to make it farther, but this is the way it is in the mountains — nothing is guaranteed. A night of snow makes the idea of going forward impossible anyway. Client safety is the most important part of any trek and bringing everyone home safe is always foremost on my mind. We are able, however, to spend the next couple of days exploring the valleys around base camp.

I want to take the group to a vista point to see K2 but there is a river crossing involved. The camel drivers want $200 for the 45-second crossing. By now arguing with them is working better at getting me going than a cup of co ee and I am able to get the price down to $100. After the crossing we climb steeply to the vista point and at last K2 reveals itself with a beautiful plume over the summit.

Heading Back

There is only one way in and out of the area, so we retrace our steps over the pass, but this time the crossing is not as easy as on the way in. The approach is much steeper, there is quite a bit of snow on top and the day is very long. There is no real defined trail on a glacier so we improvise by heading up and winding our way down through the rocks.

We finally make it to camp after the pass but the spot is very windy and very cold. Setting up tents in the wind on frozen ground is exhausting after the long day. One tent gets picked up by the wind and cartwheels about half a kilometer across the frozen ground. We get camp set up and get ready for dinner but we can’t find water anywhere that isn’t frozen. Of course the camel drivers know where to get water — for $500. We get the price down to $200 and finally have water and, a little while later, a very quick dinner.

Two days later we get to the camp where we will spend

Two more long days of driving takes us back to the city for shopping, photos and long showers. The group is healthy, having had the expedition of a lifetime and seen the splendor of one of the world’s most impressive mountains. But we have one more hurdle. The airline, despite its promises, wants to charge us for overweight bags. We think they must be relatives of the camel drivers.

We work things out with the airline, and the group members all go their separate ways with memories that likely won’t be surpassed. As for me, I keep thinking of the words of Yvon Chouinard, the founder of the Patagonia clothing company: “An adventure is not an adventure until something goes wrong.” This was the adventure of a lifetime. But am I ready to go on another trek? I think of staying home and instantly I know — I can’t wait for the next one. m

Out & About

CALENDAR / O N THE SCENE / DINE

Calendar

ROBE RT ALLE N FINEART Abstracted Landscapes and Cityscapes A group exhibition featuring art by Heather Capen, Nick Coley, William Leidenthal, John Maxon and Larry Morace, through May. 301 Caledonia St, Sausalito. 415.331.2800, robertallenfineart.com

THEATER

TH RU APR 6 Ivy + Bean, the M usical A play based on Annie Barrows’ children’s book series. Marin Theatre Company (Mill Valley). 415.388.5208, marintheatre.org

TH RU APR 14

Enchanted April A romantic comedy set in Italy about housewives taking a holiday from their marriages. The Barn Theatre (Ross). 415.456.9555, rossvalleyplayers.com

TH RU APR 21 The Happy Ones Set in Orange County, this play chronicles an appliance store owner’s struggle through grief, forgiveness and rediscovery. Magic Theatre (SF). 415.441.8822, magictheatre.org

TH RU APR 21 The Whipping M an A play about two slaves taking care of their former owner’s wounded son and how they come together during a seder. Marin Theatre Company (Mill Valley). 415.388.5200, marintheatre.org

TH RU APR 21 Fallaci

The tale of an Italian journalist’s ardent search for truth. Roda Theatre (Berkeley). 510.647.2917, berkeleyrep.org

TH RU APR 28 Jersey

Boys A multiple awardwinning musical about Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi, otherwise known as the Four Seasons. Curran Theatre (SF). 888.746.1799, shnsf.com

APR 3 –21 Carnival! 42nd

Street Moon presents the Tony Award–winning musical about an orphan’s journey with a traveling carnival. Eureka Theatre (SF). 415.255.8207, 42ndstmoon.org

APR 4 –28 Stuck

Elevator Based on a true story about a man stuck in an elevator for 81 hours. American Conservatory Theater (SF). 415.749.2228, act-sf.org

APR 5 –28 Love Letters

A traveling show about two pen pals who exchange letters throughout their lives. Various locations (Marin). 415.251.1027, porchlight.net

APR 12–13 Viva Cuba A combination of dance styles ranging from jazz, salsa, modern, hip-hop and ballet choreographed to original songs that pay tribute to Latin culture.

Showcase Theater (San Rafael). 415.473.6800, marincounty.org

APR 12– MAY 26

Pericles, Prince of Tyre Shakespeare’s play about a man fighting for his life while his family travels to a palace, brothel and temple. Thrust Stage (Berkeley). 510.647.2949, berkeleyrep.org

APR 13 N ot A Genuine Black M an The longestrunning solo show in San Francisco history, featuring Brian Copeland, comes to Marin. Osher Marin JCC (San Rafael). 415.444.8000, marinjcc.org

APR 24 –MAY 19 The Dead Girl In celebration of Marin resident Ann Brebner’s 90th birthday, AlterTheater presents a new play by the playwright and director. Various locations (San Rafael). 415.454.2787, altertheater.org

APR 28 N eil Berg’s 103 Years of Broadway A musical revue with the stars of Broadway performing music from plays such as Les Miserables, Fiddler on the Roof, Wicked and The Phantom of the Opera Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.473.6800, marincounty.org

DANCE

ON GO IN G Israeli Folk Dancing Learn dances that combine Middle Eastern, Eastern European, Latin and

African traditions inspired by the ambience of Israeli festivals. Osher Marin JCC (San Rafael). 415.444.8000, marinjcc.org

APR 5–6 The Madness of the Elephant A combination of dance, music and theater showcasing West African culture. Jewish Community Center (SF). 415.292.1233, jccsf.org

APR 9–20 Program 6

Featuring Raymonda Act III, Ibsen’s House and Symphonic Dances. War Memorial Opera House (SF). 415.865.2000, s allet.org

APR 11 –21 Program 7

Performances of CrissCross, Francesca da Rimini and Symphony in Three Movements. War

Memorial Opera House (SF). 415.865.2000, s allet.org

APR 13 Marin Ballet’s 50th A nniversary

A showcase of professional dances from Marin Ballet. College of Marin (San Rafael). 415.453.6705, marinballet.org

COMEDY

APR 1 A pril’s Fools

Standup comedy, spoken word and song by Bay Area performers, including Rhoda Bodzin, Will Durst, Marc Hershon, Johnny Steele and more. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.9600, 142throckmorton theatre.com

Marin Symphony Chorus, directed by Stephen McKersie, shone in the finale [Beethoven Symphony No.9], making a strong conclusion to a demanding double assignment. – Joshua Kosman, San Francisco Chronicle

Brahms’ noble A German Requiem pays homage to the living in his towering choral masterpiece. Anna Clyne’s Within her Arms is a sensitive meditation for strings. Separated by 150 years, both works were inspired by the deaths of the composers’ mothers.

Concert Sponsor:

Clyne Within Her Arms Brahms A German Requiem Soloists: Marina Harris, soprano Ao Li, baritone MAY 5 SUN @ 3:00 PM MAY 7 TUES @ 7:30 PM

Debussy’s Piano Preludes are miniature masterpieces of tone painting. In an unusual juxtaposition you’ll hear them twice: first in the original piano version and then in ingenious orchestrations by Colin Matthews. Our season finale, the glorious masterpiece, La Mer, evokes the winds, the waves, the sounds and ambience of the sea, with Debussy’s sensuous tonal colors and gorgeous impressionistic harmonies.

Debussy/Matthews selected Piano

Preludes, side-byside with Joyce Yang Ravel Piano

Concerto in G Major Debussy La Mer

Concert Sponsor:

MUSIC

APR 5–6 Mozart and Handel Bernard Labadie conducts the San Francisco Symphony and Chorus in Mozart’s Symphony No. 39 and Handel’s Ode for St. Cecilia’s Day Davies Symphony Hall (SF). 415.864.6000, sfsymphony.org

APR 6 Joel Harrison and Spirit House A mix of chamber, jazz and rock. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.9600, 142throckmorton theatre.com

APR 6 R ihanna The pop and R&B artist from Barbados performs on

her Diamonds world tour. HP Pavilion (San Jose). 408.287.7070, hppavilion.com

APR 6 Music for Families with the San Francisco Symphony A classical concert for families, featuring Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9. Davies Symphony Hall (SF). 415.864.6000, sfsymphony.org

APR 11 Ute Lemper A set by the theatrical singer with songs based on Charles Bukowski’s poems. SFJAZZ Center (SF). 866.920.5299, s azz.org

APR 11 Roem Bar

The singer/songwriter from San Francisco performs. The Sleeping Lady (Fairfax). 415.485.1182, localmusicvibe.com

APR 14 Martin

Helmchen The pianist plays Bach, Webern, Schubert and Brahms. Conservatory of Music Concert Hall (SF). 415.392.2545, sfperformances.org

APR 14, 16

Remembrance and Renewal The Marin Symphony chorus performs Brahms’ A German Requiem and Anna Clyne’s Within Her Arms

APR 23

Rodriguez The singer-songwriter, whose connection to the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa inspired a recent Academy Award–winning documentary, performs on his Searching for Sugar Man tour. The Warfield (SF). thewarfield theatre.com

with concertmaster Alexander Barantschik. Florence Gould Theater (SF). 415.864.6000, sfsymphony.org

APR 21 Youth Rock the Rebuild Organization members hold a benefit concert to raise funds for a new music center for Performing Stars of Marin. Sweetwater (Mill Valley). sweet watermusichall.com

APR 23 How Can We Keep From Singing Singers Marin’s 25th anniversary concert features choral groups and a piece written by Gwyneth Walker. Davies Symphony Hall (SF). 415.392.4400, singersmarin.org

APR 25 Fingerstyle Guitar Summit Featuring music by Ken Bonfield, Steve Davison, Teja Gerken and Tim Sparks. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.9600, 142throckmorton theatre.com

Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marinsymphony.org

APR 18 Allen

Ginsberg’s Kaddish

Resident artistic director and guitarist Bill Frisell performs while Hal Willner recites Ginsberg’s poem Kaddish. SFJAZZ Center (SF). 866.920.5299, s azz.org

APR 20 Jane Krakowski

The actress and singer known for her roles in TV’s Ally McBeal and 30 Rock performs. Jewish Community Center (SF). 415.292.1200, jccsf.org

APR 21 Chamber M usic at the Legion of Honor

The San Francisco Symphony plays

GALLERIES

MARIN

Art A bloom Studio and Gallery Oil paintings by Gabriella Spina Drake and classes for artists. 751 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo. 415.256.1112, artabloom.com

Art Works Downtown Open Space, Sacred Ground Paintings by Foad Satterfield. 1337 Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.451.8119, artworksdowntown.org

Bubble Street Featuring genres of fantastic art, imaginary realism, neoVictorian and steam punk. 565 Bridgeway, Sausalito. 415.339.0506

Falkirk Cultural Center

Annual juried spring exhibit of Marin and Bay Area artists. 1408 Mission Ave, San Rafael. 415.485.3436, falkirkculturalcenter.org

APR 25 An Evening with Bon Jovi A concert with the American rock band. HP Pavilion (San Jose). 408.287.7070, hppavilion.com

APR 26 Brad Melhdau in Duo with Kevin Hays

The two pianists play arrangements influenced by composer Patrick Zimmerli. SFJAZZ Center (SF). 866.920.5299, s azz.org

APR 27 Hugh M asekela

A mixture of jazz and pop performed by the South African trumpet player and vocalist. Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.473.6800, marincenter.org

Fine Art Etc. Featuring a collection of sculptures and paintings by artists from Northern California and around the world. 686 Bridgeway, Sausalito. 415.332.1107, fineartetc.com

Gallery Bergelli New Voices New Visions New work by Bay Area artists, through April 17. 483 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur. 415.945.9454, bergelli.com

Gallery Route One The True Cost of Plastic A mixed-media exhibition by Richard Lang and Judith Selby Lang. 415.663.1347, galleryrouteone.org

M arin Open Studios

Gallery Exhibition

A showcase of artwork by each of the 250 participating artists in this year’s Marin Open Studios, April 19–May 12. 325 Town Center, Corte Madera. 415.343.5667, marinopenstudios.com

Marin Society of A rtists Open Crafts and Sculpture, through May 2. 3501 Civic Center Dr, San Rafael. 415.454.9561, marinsocietyofartists.org

Marin County Watercolor Society Ravishing Red April 30. Tiburon Town Hall, 1505 Tiburon Boulevard, Tiburon. 415.456.2692. marincounty

O’Hanlon Center for the A rts Myths of Your Life A juried mixed media show. 616 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.388.4331, ohanloncenter.org

Robert Green Fine A rts Color to Paper Art by Paul Jenkins, through June 3. 154 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.381.8776, rgfinearts.com

Rock Hill Gallery Art by Mark Ropers. 145 Rock Hill Dr (Tiburon). 415.435.9108, ccctiburon.net

Art Gallery

materials included. 1133 Grant Ave, Novato. 415.596.5546, studio4art.net

SAN FRANCISCO

A rtHaus The Chosen Ones An exhibition of the winners of the mobile photo awards and ArtHaus photo essay contest, through

June. 411 Brannan St, 415.977.0223, arthaus-sf.com

Berggruen Gallery The Time Is Now A group exhibition of works by Doug Aitken, Darren Almond, Jasper Johns, On Kawara, Robert Rauschenberg and James Rosenquist, through May 11. 228 Grant Ave, 415.781.4629, berggruen.com

Caldwell Snyder Art by Douglas Schneider. 341 Sutter St, 415.392.2299, caldwellsnyder.com

Gregory Lind Gallery

Raw Graces Art by Amy Feldman, through April 20. 49 Geary St, 415.296.9661, gregorylindgallery.com

Rena Bransten Gallery

Art by Ian McDonald and Jennie Smith, through May 4. 77 Geary St, 415.982.3292, renabransten gallery.com

MUSEUMS

MARIN

Bolinas M useum Art by Sandy Dierks and Daniel McCormick; photography by Patty Mulligan (Bolinas). 415.868.0330, bolinasmuseum.org

Marin History M useum

Justice and Judgment

Three-part exhibition about Marin’s law enforcement and judicial system, through June (San Rafael). 415.454.8538, marinhistory.org

Marin Museum of the American Indian Explore Native American history, languages, art and traditions (Novato). 415.897.4064, marinindian.com

Marin Museum of Contemporary Art The Emerging Artists of the Bay Area Work by three local artists, through April 14 (Novato). 415.506.0137, marinmoca.org

BAY AREA

Asian Art Museum China’s Terracotta Warriors: The First Emperor’s Legacy, through May (SF). 415.581.3711, asianart.org

California Academy of Sciences Nightlife Enjoy music, creatures and

cocktails for adults only and take some time to explore the exhibits and aquarium displays every Thursday night (SF). 415.379.8000, calacademy.org

Conservatory of Flowers Boomtown: The Barbary Coast A garden railway exhibition celebrating San Francisco’s Gold Rush boomtown era and Barbary Coast neighborhood, through April 14 (SF). 415.831.2090, conservatoryof flowers.org

Contemporary Jewish Museum The World Stage: Israel Portraits by Kehinde Wiley, through May 27 (SF). 415.655.7800, thecjm.org

de Young Girl with a Pearl Earring: Dutch Paintings from the Mauritshuis A collection of paintings from the Royal Picture Gallery Mauritshuis at The Hague, through June (SF). 415.750.3600, deyoung.famsf.org

Exploratorium Ongoing interactive exhibits exploring science, art and human perception (SF). 415.397.5673, exploratorium.edu

Legion of Honor Artful Animals A portrait of the animal world, represented in an array of cultures, artistic styles and media (SF). 415.750.3600, legiono onor.org

Marin Country Club Experience the Lifestyle

Museum of Craft and Design A Sculptural Odyssey Art by Bay Area artist Michael Cooper, through June (SF). 415.773.0303, sfmcd.org

Oakland Museum of California we/customize A showcase of customized objects as part of artistic and personal expression, through May (Oakland). 510.318.8400, museumca.org

San Francisco Botanical Garden California Native Plant Bloom A collection of hundreds of wildflowers native to California and a 100-year-old grove of coast redwoods (SF). 415.661.1316, s otanicalgarden.org

“It is the finest conditioned course I have ever played. The fairways were absolutely perfect.”

“A golf course is a living, breathing organism; it changes every day. Mastering the elements to create the best course conditions is a constant challenge. It’s the challenge I love. It gets me excited to come to work every morning, even after 30 years.”

-

KEVIN

PRYSESKI, MCC SUPERINTENDENT

SFMO MA Lebbeus

Woods, Architect Work presenting shifts, cycles and repetitions within the built environment, through June (SF). 415.357.4000, sfmoma.org

The Walt Disney Family M useum Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs: The Creation of a Classic Featuring more than 200 works of conceptual art, model sheets, layouts and animations, through April 14 (SF). 415.345.6800, waltdisney.org

Yerba Buena Center for the A rts Without Reality There Is No Utopia An examination of false narratives that masquerade as truth, including the collapse of Communism in the 1980s and the current

financial crisis, through June (SF). 415.978.2787, ybca.org

EVENTS

APR 6 Ride to the Rescue Attend seminars, lectures, demonstrations and a competition to support equine health and training. Showcase Theater (San Rafael). 415.473.6800, marinhorsecouncil.org

APR 6 Whiskies of the World An expo and festival with whiskey samples from international distillers. Hornblower Landing (SF). 408.225.0446, whiskiesoftheworld.com

APR 6 Hope by Design

The Red Cross Gala includes a black tie evening with cocktails, dinner and dancing to benefit disaster relief in the Bay Area. Concourse Exhibition Center (SF). 415.427.8170, redcross.org

APR 13 Earth Day Learn about the earth with demonstrations and hands-on stations; other activities include face painting and appearances by environmental non

profits. The Oakland Zoo (Oakland). 510.632.9525, oaklandzoo.org

APR 13 Marin Women’s Hall of Fame A nnual Gala The 25th anniversary celebration features an evening honoring six local female leaders, including LeeAnn Bartolini, Christine Bronstein, Jan Heglund, Kim Kaselionis, Jennifer Siebel Newsom and Jan Pedersen Schi , as part of the Women’s History Project. Embassy Suites (San Rafael). 415.455.4900, marinwomenshallo ame.org

APR 13 –14 I ndoor

A ntique M arket More than 75 vendors with decorative art, furniture, photographs,

jewelry coins and more. Exhibit Hall (San Rafael). 415.473.6800, goldengateshows.com

APR 13 –14, 20–21

Cherry Blossom Festival

The 46th annual festival celebrates Japanese culture with food, drink and a grand parade. Japantown (SF). 415.563.2313, sfcherryblossom.org

APR 16 Floral Fling

Marin Charitable’s event features a garden path boutique, luncheon and fashion show. Marin Country Club (Novato). 415.883.9501, marincharitable.org

Out & About / CALENDAR

APR 17 Exploratorium

Opening Day Celebrate the unveiling of the museum’s new location on the waterfront. Pier 15 (SF). 415.528.4363, exploratorium.edu

APR 20 Great Chefs and Wineries An evening with food, wine and a concert by Huey Lewis and the News. All proceeds benefit L ifehouse. Fireman’s Fund Insurance C ompany (Novato). 415.472.2373, greatchefsand wineries.org

APR 21 Run for Recess

A 5k and 1-mile fun run benefiting Playworks, which is connected to 24 elementary schools. Stow Lake (SF). 415.814.1353, playworks.org

APR 27 Petaluma

Butter and Eggs Days

An annual celebration of Petaluma’s history with a community parade, arts and crafts, food vendors, inflatable jump houses and rides. Downtown (Petaluma). 800.310.6563, sresproductions.com

Francisco University High School’s financial aid program. 2800 Pacific Ave (SF). 415.447.5830, decoratorshowcase.org

APR 28 Blessing of the Pleasure Craft Opening day on the bay celebrations include the annual blessing, this time performed by the former presidential yacht Potomac. C orinthian Yacht Club (Tiburon). 415.435.4771, cyc.org

FILM

APR 10 Salaam, Shalom

The third and final part of the series features a screening of My So-Called Enemy, a documentary about Arab and Israeli teenage girls in Israel. Osher Marin JCC (San Rafael). 415.444.8080, marinjcc.org

APR 11 Free Our Sports Youth Film Festival A series of mock advertisements created by youth ages 10–20 years that contradicts popular ads about alcohol and sports. Showcase Theater (San Rafael). 415.473.6800, marin county.org

APR 27 Ridge to Bridge Hike, run and enjoy a gourmet bu et lunch to raise money to complete the Bay Area Trail. Various locations (Southern Marin). 415.561.2595, ridgetobridge.org

APR 27 San Francisco I nternational Beer Festival Bottomless mugs of local and international beers. Fort Mason (SF). s eerfest.com

APR 27– MAY 27 San Francisco Decorator Showcase An exhibition of work by interior and landscape designers in a Georgian-style mansion, benefiting San

APR 11 –19 Tiburon I nternational Film Festival See the best examples of filmmaking from around the world at the 12th annual festival. Playhouse Theater (Tiburon). 415.381.4123, tiburonfilmfestival.com

NATURE WALKS & TALKS

ON GO IN G Sausalito Walking Tours Take a one-hour walk through Sausalito's Old Town and learn about its

history. Vina del Mar Plaza (Sausalito). 415.331.3791, travelswithteri.com

APR 1 Sanjay Gupta

The Emmy Award–winning chief medical correspondent for CNN and best-selling author talks about public health policy and other medical topics. Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 650.340.7004, speakerseries.net

APR 1 Sheryl Sandberg

The CEO of Facebook discusses her experiences in the corporate and political worlds. Nourse Auditorium (SF). 415.392.4400, cityarts.net

APR 1–4 Spring Break ZooCamp An educational program for kids in kindergarten through fifth grade with zoo tours, crafts, costumes and lessons about animals and nature. Oakland Zoo (Oakland). 510.632.9525, oaklandzoo.org

APR 3 Conversation About Ending Youth Homelessness A fundraising event for Ambassadors of Hope and Opportunity featuring a discussion with Julia Butterfly Hill and Drew Dellinger about ending youth homelessness. Odalisque Cafe (San Rafael). 415.381.7173, ahoproject.org

APR 6 WildCare Family Adventures Exploring Deer I sland Take a casual stroll around the park while watching for butterflies, flowers and reptiles. Deer Island (Novato). 415.453.1000, wildcarebayarea.org

APR 12 Good vs. Evil Renowned chefs

Anthony Bourdain and Eric Ripert share their stories about the role food plays in our society. Orpheum Theatre (SF). 888.746.1799, shnsf.com

APR 17 Dan Griffin

The director from GG Films, Inc. discusses his film Swimming with the Scientist. Saylor’s Restaurant (Sausalito). marinscuba.org

APR 18 Mary Roach

A conversation with the author of Packing for Mars, the selection for the 2013 One Book One Marin. Angelico Concert Hall (San Rafael). 415.927.0960, dominican.edu

APR 23 Gillian Flynn

The author of the bestselling novel Gone Girl discusses her work. Jewish C ommunity Center (SF). 415.292.1200, jccsf.org

APR 24 Mark M azzetti: Inside the CIA and America’s Covert Operations The New York Times reporter discusses his experiences over the past 10 years. Club O ce (SF). 415.597.6700, commonwealthclub.org

APR 30 Adapting to an I ncreasingly Complex World Sociobiologist, radio host and author Rebecca Costa provides insight into the nation’s intricacy, from healthcare to pollution. C ommunity Center (Mill Valley). 415.888.2329, speaktomeevents.com

SPARK YOUR IMAGINATION

Three numbers can save your life or a loved one: 9-1-1

It doesn’t take a trained cardiologist to know that calling 911 can be the difference between life and death when it comes to a sudden heart attack or stroke. Calling 911 is common sense.

But according to Dr. David Sperling, a cardiologist practicing at Marin General Hospital, that advice is often ignored by wellmeaning patients who underestimate or repress their symptoms. Driving oneself to the hospital, or convincing your spouse or neighbor to do so can waste critical time that could be used to initiate therapy, he says. An ambulance is like a moving emergency department. A paramedic trained Emergency Medical Technician or Paramedic can immediately begin to assess your condition, and institute appropriate medical and potentially life-saving measures while directly communicating with a physician at the emergency department. By the time you arrive, the emergency staff is already prepared to offer therapy that will minimize risk of organ injury.

This head start may well determine whether you survive and fully recover from the attack or whether you are left with permanent injury.

How do you know whether to make the call?

The symptoms of a heart attack may not be obvious. Typically, one feels tightness or pressure in the central chest, but occasionally shortness of breath, severe sweating, abdominal pain or fainting may be the symptoms. Women tend to develop less typical symptoms so the diagnosis may be less obvious.

And, the symptoms of stroke can be very difficult to identify with certainty. A study of admissions to the University of Cincinnati Hospital revealed that over half of admitted stroke patients did not realize they were having one. Someone who has had a small stroke may experience only minor effects such as weakness in a limb.

But thrombotic stroke can be deadly or devastating. It occurs when a blood clot blocks flow through an artery to an area of the brain. Once this occurs, cells start to die within minutes and neurologic problems such as speech impairment, dizziness, numbness or weakness develop rapidly. Depending on the severity and location, rapid implementation of “clot busters” can greatly improve outcomes by restoring blood flow to the affected area.

Doug McConnell didn’t realize he was having a stroke until his hand went numb. Luckily, he arrived at Marin General Hospital’s emergency room before serious damage occurred. Now, he is taking the advice he gives others: “Eat well, sleep well, monitor your cholesterol and live a quality life. And if something is out of the ordinary, pay close attention to it.” He is thankful that there is a highly qualified stroke center nearby.

“We need to make sure it continues to be available,” he says. “I’m so very, very lucky that Marin General Hospital is right here.”

Dr. Sperling emphasizes that in both heart attack and stroke, delaying time to treatment can have devastatingly adverse effects and reduce the chance of full recovery. Medicines and vascular interventions work best if delay to therapy is minimized. The majority of people receiving timely treatment make complete recoveries and are able to resume their normal lifestyles. When in doubt, make that call.

In summary, if you experience onset of cardiac or neurologic symptoms:

1. CALL “911.” Don’t wait. Do it now.

2. If you’re not on daily aspirin, chew one as soon as possible (aspirin is a “blood thinner” that aids in dissolving clots.)

3. If you’re alone, call a neighbor or family member to help.

marin General hospital Foundation presents

Sponsors as of February 26

Balthazar

Reta Haynes — Harold J. and Reta Haynes Family Foundation

Salmanazar

Barbara McCullough

Nancy and Rich Robbins

mEthUSElah

Bruce F. Braden

Nancy and John Neerhout

Don and Donna Kelleher

Radha Stern and Gary Maxworthy The Schultz Foundation

Mike and Sharon Stone

Emergency department & trauma Services at marin General hospital

Saturday, may 18, 2013

6:30 Pm — Cocktail reception Spirits provided by diageo north america

7:30 Pm — dinner by mcCalls Catering dancing to live music by Encore

Exquisite tented venue in downtown Sausalito (across from Poggio and Casa Madrona Hotel)

• Please RSVP no later than May 3 Valet parking provided

Gala COmmIttEE

Mike and Sharon Stone, Chairs a black-tie gala benefitin

Wayne Kaleck

Diane Doodha

Susan Gilardi

Maria Pitcairn

Tucky Pogue Andrea Schultz

Marcia Sperling Radha Stern

marIn GEnEral hOSPItal FOUndatIOn BOard Officers of the Board

Andrea Schultz Chair The Honorable Roy Wonder Treasurer Patty Garbarino Secretary

Bruce Braden

Lydia Cameron

Our mission is to inspire philanthropy for the benefit of marin General hospita Board of Directors

Jon Friedenberg,* President Susan Gilardi Francine Halberg, MD

Helen Principe, RN David Sperling, MD Mike Stone

Jeffrey “Jim” Dietz, MD

Lee Domanico*

Diane Doodha

Robert Dureault,*

Executive Director

Sharon A. Early

Michael Kadel

Geoffrey Koblick

Harry Neuwirth, MD

Karen Pell Maria Pitcairn Tucky Pogue

Cathie Bennett Warner Cecilia Zamora Ann Otter, Chair Emeritus (of blessed memory) *Ex-Offici

marIn GEnEralhOSPItal

Marin General Hospital, located in Greenbrae, CA, is the only full-service, acute care hospital in Marin County. The 235-bed facility was established in 1952, and is owned by the Marin Healthcare District. The hospital is committed to providing quality health programs and services to the citizens of this community. In fact, the hospital is the ONLY source for many important services and programs including the only: designated trauma center, labor and delivery services, full-service cancer care program, comprehensive heart and vascular care, accredited chest pain center, inpatient pediatric program, spine and brain institute, certified primarystroke center that can treat all types of stroke on site, and acute inpatient psychiatric services.

traUma CEntEr & EmErGEnCY SErVICES

As the only designated Trauma Center in Marin County, Marin General Hospital’s Emergency Department treats approximately 35,000 patients annually. Our Emergency Department offers a comprehensive range of services, including many that are simply unavailable at other local hospitals. The community counts on us for emergency care of all kinds, from minor injuries and illnesses to lifesaving intervention for major injuries, heart attack, and stroke.

EVEnt InFOrmatIOn 415.925.7770 • foundation@maringeneral.org • www.maringeneral.org/events

EVEnt PlannEr Deborah Mann Productions

mEdIa SPOnSOrS

Andrea Schultz, President, MGH Foundation Board and John Kerns, shaking it up on the dance floor at last year’s gala. Gown by Lily Samii. wInE SPOnSOr

VIPMarin

CHOOSE LOCAL FIRST

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The VIP Marin program is all about being in the know. When you opt in to this program, you’ll receive important communications from Marin Magazine regarding special events and timely editorial content. And when you opt in to one or more of the individual VIP Marin advertisers on these pages, you’ll receive special offers from their unique business.

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Opt in by texting MARIN to 90947

TEXT “LASER” TO 90947

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TEXT “MALUGANI” TO 90947

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Nourish Grill on Strawberry Point

TEXT “MARIN” TO 90947

“VIP Marin has been the most direct and efficient way to update our customers on what’s new. We know it works because such a high percentage of customers come in and take advantage of our offers and join our classes. This program has been instrumental in driving my business and it’s easy to see the results!” –Sophie Boero Kurnik

Text YARN to 90947 to join Bluebird Yarn’s subscriber list.

BLUE BARN GOURMET American The first Marin outpost of the S.F.–based Sustainable Restaurant Group, Blue Barn Gourmet has proven to be very popular since opening in October 2012. The menu consists of customizable salads, toasted sandwiches, soups and more, prepared with locally harvested produce and proteins. 335 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.927.1104, bluebarngourmet.com

CORTE MADERA

BOCA PIZZERIA Italian Good luck getting a seat at this new indoor/ outdoor family-friendly pizzeria in the Village at Corte Madera. Owners Shah Bahreyni and Sam Ramadan’s 142-seat eatery features Neapolitan-style

pizza topped with imported San Marzano tomatoes and fresh, house-made mozzarella. 1544 Redwood Hwy, 415.924.3021, bocapizzeria.com

BRICK & BOTTLE

California Sourcing local and artisanal ingredients, executive chef Scott Howard brings simple California cuisine to Corte Madera’s Brick & Bottle. The restaurant features a large bar area, an outdoor patio and family-friendly dining. 55 Tamal Vista Blvd, 415.924.3366, brickandbottle.com

CHAMPAGNE BAKERY

French This casual bakery displays freshly made pastries, croissants, tarts, cookies and cakes to be enjoyed indoors or out on the patio. Brioche French toast and a French dip sandwich with Swiss cheese are among the many menu options. Catering is also available. 103 Corte Madera Town Ctr, 415.927.5470, champagnebakery.com

IL FORNAIO Italian

Sausalito’s Larry Mindel hit a home run with this upscale Italian restaurant franchise. Besides the awardwinning breads, pizzas and pastas, the menu o ers a variety of salads and noncarb entrées. 223 Corte Madera Town Ctr, 415.927.4400, ilfornaio.com

LA PLANCHA Mexican

Max’s cozy red booths have been repurposed for this family-style Mexican eatery and tequila bar. 60 Madera Blvd. 415.924.629

SEATHAI BISTRO

Asian SEA stands for Southeast Asian, and co-owner and executive chef Tony Ounpamornchai infuses his cooking with Thai and other Asian flavors to create innovative dishes. The menu features sustainable and local ingredients when possible and includes an extensive wine list. 60 Corte Madera Ave, 415.927.8333, seathaibistro.com

THE COUNTER

California/American

The folks at the Counter have taken the “have it your way” motto to a wholenew level. Mostly known for all-natural Angus beef, turkey, chicken or veggie burgers, the restaurant also o ers options like a bowl (all the ingredients without the bun) or salads. And if you want a martini with your burger, no problem—there’s a full bar. 201 Corte Madera Town Center 415.924.7000, thecounterburger.com

FAIRFAX

123 BOLINAS California

Known for farm-fresh, organic cuisine, 123 Bolinas was created by four friends who aimed to showcase seasonal fare in a relaxing, intimate environment. Enjoy locally brewed beer

and small-production wines as you take in the view of Bolinas Park through the floor-toceiling windows. 123 Bolinas St, 415.488.5123, 123bolinas.com

SORELLA CAFFE Italian

Open for over six years and run by sisters Sonia and Soyara, Sorella, which means “sisters,” serves up fresh Italian food with a northern influence. Customer favorites include cioppino, butternut squash ravioli and eggplant parmesan. Another highlight is the giant wheel of Grana Padana cheese, which is passed around the tables. Easy place to bring the kids. 107 Bolinas Rd, 415.258.4520, sorellaca e.com

STEAKHOUSE GRILL & BAR

American

Celebrating its 90 year anniversary, this steakhouse at Deer Park Villa is more than just a restaurant serving signature Angus steaks and prime rib. It is a gathering place with daily happy hour, live entertainment and a large heated deck. Events include Ladies’ Night, Prime Rib Weekend and the Redwood Music Series. 367 Bolinas Rd, 415.456.8084, deerpark steakhousegrill.com

GREENBRAE

BISTRO VIS À VIS

California This Bon Air Shopping Center eatery features the cooking of Soo Young Kim, who previously acted as owner, chef and sommelier at Petaluma’s Sooze Wine Bar. The neighborhood spot boasts outdoor seating for casually fine dining. 282 Bon Air Ctr, 415.925.4370, bistrovisavis.com

WIPEOUT BAR & GRILL

American The familyfriendly hot spot has sur oards hanging from the ceiling, funin-the-sun music, a full bar and large televisions displaying surfers riding waves. Menu includes fish tacos, salads and burgers. The only thing missing is the sand at this surf-style, upbeat eatery. 302 Bon Air Ctr, 415.461.7400, wipeoutbarandgrill.com

LARKSPUR

EL HUARACHE LOCO

Mexican Bringing authentic Mexico City dishes to Marin, chef Veronica Salazar’s menu has gained quite a following. From mini huaraches (filled corn masa cakes) to the footlong huarache with two salsas, crema, queso fresco and two toppings of your choice, you get a true taste of a homemade Mexican meal. Marin Country Mart, 1803 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.925.1403, huaracheloco.com

EMPORIO RULLI Italian

Pastry chef Gary Rulli is renowned for his Northern Italian specialties and treats. The Larkspur location (there are three others) is a favored spot for lunch as well as co ee and a sweet. 464 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.7478, rulli.com

LEFT BANK

RESTAURANT French

Known for awardwinning French cuisine and a lively brasserie ambience, this corner spot on Magnolia Avenue has rated high with locals for well over a decade. 507 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.3331, leftbank.com

Pain Medicine Consultants

• Experts in minimally invasive & non-surgical treatments of back and neck pain.

• If you do need surgery, we have strong relationships with the best surgeons in the country

• Double Board Certified. Trained at Harvard, Stanford, and the Mayo Clinic.

(925) 287-1256

RUSTIC BAKERY

California Organic mouthwatering pastries, breads and sandwiches are on the menu here, including Meyer lemon mascarpone danishes and a bacon, avocado and heirloom tomato sandwich with mesclun. Two locations: Marin Country Mart, 415.461.9900; 1139 Magnolia Ave, 415.925.1556, rusticbakery.com

TABLE CAFE Indian/ American This Indiainspired cafe’s unique menu features entirely organic ingredients. Dishes include seasonal salads, incredible soups and fresh juices. The specialty of the house is dosa, filled with a variety of ingredients and served with savory homemade chutneys. 1167 Magnolia Ave, 415.461.6787, table-cafe.com

THE TAVERN AT LARK CREEK American

The next chapter in the 1888 Victorian Murphy House, formerly known as Lark Creek Inn, is being written by chef Aaron Wright. 234 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.7766, tavernatlarkcreek.com

MILL VALLEY

BOO KOO Asian

Authentic Asian street food is now available for $10 or less. The restaurant o ers options for every eater—vegans, gluten-frees, vegetarians and carnivores alike. Menu items include chicken pho, vegan summer rolls, pad thai and five-spice pork satay, all made with organic, locally sourced veggies and proteins. 25 Miller Ave, 415.888.8303, eatbookoo.com

BUCKEYE ROADHOUSE

American Oysters Bingo, baby back ribs and chili-lime “brick” chicken are a few of the satisfying, comfort-food menu items that have

made this classic roadhouse a favorite since the ’30s. 15 Shoreline Hwy, 415.331.2600, buckeyeroadhouse.com

CAFE DEL SOUL

California Casual lunch spot, great for takeout. 247 Shoreline Hwy, 415.388.1852, cafedelsoul.net

CHAMPAGNE

BAKERY French Enjoy a croque-monsieur alfresco, linger over a flaky, buttery croissant with a cappuccino, or pick up chocolatedipped strawberries for your dinner party. 41 Throckmorton Ave, 415.380.0410, millvalley.champagne bakery.com

EL PASEO HOUSE OF

CHOPS

American The menu speaks to the restaurant’s elegance, with o erings like roasted bone marrow, hamachi crudo, smoked trout salad and the El Paseo short rib. 17 Throckmorton Ave, 415.388.0741, elpaseomillvalley.com

BELCAMPO MEAT CO.

American This eatery serves classic grilled items like the roasted tri-tip sandwich and classic sloppy joe. The meat is delivered from the certified-organic Belcampo Farms near Mount Shasta, dedicated to practicing a holistic approach to pasture management. Marin Country Mart, 2405 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.448.5810, belcampomeatco.com

FRANTOIO RISTORANTE

ITALIANO Italian

Known for its in-house olive press, superior olive oil and excellent Italian cuisine, this spot is a great location for an intimate dinner, large groups and anything in between. Owned by Roberto Zecca and chef Duilio Valenti, both from Milano; the kitchen uses local and organic ingredients. For special occasions and private parties, reserve the olive-press room. The popular weekday

happy hour starts at 4:30 p.m. 152 Shoreline Hwy, 415.289.5777, frantoio.com

GRILLY’S RESTAURANT

Mexican Both the Mill Valley and Fairfax locations o er “healthy Mexican food” like grilled chicken, steak or veggie-filled burritos with gluten-free and vegetarian options. 493 Miller Ave, 415.381.3278, grillys.com

HARMONY Chinese

Dishes here are an infusion of many

flavors. The barbecue pork bun is filled with house-made roasted meat in a savory sauce, and fresh mussels are accented with red chili and Thai basil. Pair your pick with wine, beer or tea. Strawberry Village, 415.381.5300, harmonyrestaurant group.com

LA GINESTRA Italian A favorite family spot for over 30 years; getting a table or booth here can take awhile. While this old-school Italian eatery is known for traditional pastas, veal dishes, pizzas and dry martinis, the familiar wait sta is also part of the attraction. 127 Throckmorton Ave, 415.388.0224

MILL VALLEY

BEERWORKS American

Known for handcrafted beers, imported and local microbrews and house-made kombucha and root beer, this popular downtown Mill Valley neighborhood brewery recently doubled its space and expanded its food and beverage menu. 173 Throckmorton Ave, 415.888.8218, mill valleybeerworks.com

NOURISH GRILL

American Open for brunch, lunch and dinner, Nourish o ers a variety of classic seafood, like fish ’n’ chips, as well as American grill fare like the Niman Ranch black ’n’ bleu burger. The establishment is also the restaurant for the Club at Harbor Point and is situated on the waterfront and open to the public. Many ingredients are locally sourced and organic.

475 E Strawberry Dr, 415.381.4400, nourish. harbor-point.com

PEARL’S

PHAT BURGERS American

Dubbed a silver-spoon alternative to a greasy spoon diner by The New York Times, Pearl’s has a loyal following for the big juicy all-natural patties (vegetarian, turkey, beef, bu alo or grilled chicken) served up with tasty sides such as garlic or sweet potato fries, shakes and seasonal smoothies. Eat in if you can get a seat, or take out. 8 E. Blithedale Ave, 415.381.6010, pearlsdeluxe.com

PIZZA ANTICA Italian

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

PRABHINDIAN

KITCHEN Indian Owned and operated by the Singh family, this restaurant is dedicated to serving healthy, organic and sustainable food with gluten-free and vegan options.

Dishes include chicken pakora, vegetable biryani and basil garlic naan. 24 Sunnyside Ave, 415.384.8241, prabh indiankitchen.com

S OL FOO D Puerto Rican

This well-loved restaurant has found a new home in Mill Valley. But don’t worry—this location is an addition to the San Rafael mainstays. 401 Miller Ave, Ste. B

TAMALPIE Italian

Traditional pizzas from a 1,500-year-old recipe, with organic ingredients gathered from the farmers’ market twice weekly. Sit indoors or out; enjoy starters like creamy polenta, salads, and pies with names like Hoo-kooE-koo and Railroad Grade. 477 Miller Ave, 415.388.7437, tamalpiepizza.com

VASCO Italian Whether you’re at a table, the bar or the back counter, you can expect an intimate and tasty dining experience at this one-room trattoria. Try one of the restaurant’s pasta dishes or thin-crust pizzas. 106 Throckmorton Ave, 415.381.3343, vascomillvalley.com

NOVATO

BOCA PIZZERIA

Italian Authentic pizza prepared with fresh mozzarella made in house daily and tomatoes imported from Italy. Other menu items include grilled rosemary chicken sandwiches and braised beef short rib pappardelle. Weekly specials include 50 percent o all wines by the bottle on Wednesdays and half o draft beers on Thursdays. 454 Ignacio Blvd, 415.883.2302, bocapizzeria.com

For the Love of Lamb

A fresh and delicious dish perfect for spring.

Chef Nick Abrams, executive chef at Hilltop 1892, grew up with a spatula in his hand. E arly on he picked up tips on cooking from his food-loving E uropean stepfather in Squaw Valley and, later in life, summers in high school found him in the kitchen at Mama’s Fish House on Maui. E ventually he apprenticed for Michel Richard at Citronelle as a student at UCSB and, after landing a job at Rubicon in San Francisco, was inspired by head chef Traci Des Jardins’ European travels. He followed in those footsteps and spent time cooking in Paris before returning to the United States to work at Mill Valley’s Buckeye Roadhouse. But Abrams, now in his second year as chef, found a true home heading up the kitchen at Novato’s Hilltop 1892. Regarding this spring dish, Abrams says it’s a definite crowd pleaser, and you can make the chimichurri and clean and marinate the lamb the day before you plan to serve. MIMI TOWLE

Tea-Smoked Rack of Lamb with Spring Vegetable Ragout and Mint Chimichurri

YIELDS 8 SERVINGS

I ngredients

2 lamb racks (about 8 to 9 ribs each)

K cup plus 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

4 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed

2 four-inch rosemary sprigs, crushed freshly ground black pepper

sea salt

K cup sugar

K cup uncooked rice or risotto

1 sachet of mint tea

1 sachet of black tea

To prepare

MARINATE: 1 Clean the rib bones well by scraping off excess meat and sinew with a small sharp knife. 2 Cut the racks in half so that each has four ribs.

3 Mix the olive oil, garlic and rosemary in a large bowl. Add the lamb and coat well. Grind some coarse black pepper and sea salt over all. 4 Wrap well and marinate the racks overnight. 5 Next, take the lamb racks out of the marinade and pat dry of all oil and herbs.

SM OKE: 1 Combine the sugar, risotto or rice, and mint and black tea sachets in a bowl. 2 Make a small tray out of aluminum foil and place the mixture into the tray. Place the tray in the bottom of a pan or metal baking dish and put a wire rack over the pan. 3 Place the two lamb racks on the wire rack. Cover the lamb with another pan or with foil and place the pan onto a medium flame, allowing the mixture to heat and start smoking. Check to be sure the mixture is not burning too fast (small bubbling and charring of the sugar will occur). 4 Smoke for 15 to 20 minutes. Once done, turn off the heat and allow to cool. While the lamb is smoking, prepare the mint chimichurri and blanch the vegetables for the spring vegetable ragout (marinmagazine.com/lamb).

To serve

1 Preheat the oven to 400°F. Heat a large sauté pan over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. 2 Season the lamb well with salt and pepper; sear fat side down until golden, about 7 minutes. 3 Turn over so that the fat side is up and roast in the preheated oven for 12 minutes. Let the rack rest for 5 minutes before cutting. The lamb should be mediumrare. 4 While the lamb is cooking, finish the spring vegetable ragout (marinmagazine.com/lamb). 5 To serve, cut each lamb rack into 4 equal pieces, 2 bones per chop, and serve on individual plates with the spring vegetable ragout and mint chimichurri.

BOCA STEAK & SEAFOOD South

American Bring a date or celebrate a special event at this classic steak house, which features chef George Morrone’s (Aqua, Fifth Floor) Argentinean heritage. The grass and grain-fed steaks are cooked over oak and almond. 340 Ignacio Blvd, 415.883.0901, bocasteak.com

CHIANTI CUCINA

Italian This cozy eatery features an array of Italian and American choices, including a penne pesto described by one Yelp contributor as a “hot creamy bowl of heaven.” Another standout menu item is the house-made ravioli cooked up by chef Chris Harman. 7416 Redwood Hwy, 415.878.0314, chiantinovato.com

FINNEGAN’SMARIN

American This pub-style restaurant features tasty appetizers, grilled

flatbread pizzas and entrées such as New York steak, garlic herb chicken and a braised beef and pork ragu. Wine, beer and cocktails are available. 877 Grant Ave, 415.899.1516, finnegansmarin.com

HILLTOP 1892 California

Situated on a historic estate in Novato with sweeping views, Hilltop 1892 o ers traditional favorites with a California flair. Open from breakfast through dinner, as well as Sunday brunch. 850 Lamont Ave, 415.893.1892, hilltop1892.com

LEFT COAST DEPOT

American Located in Old Town Novato, this new eatery serves breakfast, lunch and dinner prepared by chef Mike Garcia formerly of Toast. Fare includes chicken pear salad and mac ’n’ cheese. 807 Grant Ave, 415.897.7707, leftcoastdepot.com

CHARLES M STEWART ARCHITECTS

MUSCIO’S Italian

Inspired by the tradition of family dinners, Muscio’s is serving up traditional Italian food. Meals include Mom’s Fettuccine with Prawns (gluten-free rigatoni available), My Sister’s Minestrone Soup and pesto chicken pizza. The kids’ menu encourages the whole family to spend an evening at Muscio’s. 1200 Grant Ave, 415.898.2234, muscios.com

RICKEY’S RESTAURANT & BAR

American Besides a full-service restaurant and bar (with banquet/ meeting rooms,) this comfort food classic o ers poolside dining and a garden patio overlooking green lawns. During the summer, dine while listening to jazz by the pool from 6:30–9:30 p.m. 250 Entrada Drive, 415.883.9477. rickeysrestaurant.com

RUSTIC BAKERY

California Organic mouthwatering pastries, breads and sandwiches are on the menu here, including Meyer lemon mascarpone danishes and a bacon, avocado and heirloom tomato sandwich with mesclun. 1407 Grant Avenue, 415.878-4952, rusticbakery.com

TAVOLAITALIAN

KITCHEN Italian A neighborhood gathering place for friends and family, Tavola o ers locally sourced and sustainable produce, meats and decor. Traditional favorites like heirloom tomato and zucchini panini and minestrone soup pay homage to its Italian roots. Open for Sunday brunch. 5800 Nave Dr, 415.883.6686, tavolaitaliankitchen.com

SAN ANSELMO

BISTRO 330 French

In the heart of San Anselmo, Bistro 330 features simple French cuisine: steak frites, mussels, crème

brûlée and more. 330 San Anselmo Ave, 415.460.6330

COMFORTS CAFE

American This cozy spot features local ingredients and serves breakfast, lunch and weekend brunch. Be sure to try the Philly cheesesteak and Chinese chicken salad, both classics. 335 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.9840, comfortscafe.com

INSALATA’S

Mediterranean Awardwinning chef Heidi Insalata Krahling o ers Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes prepared with local organic produce and artisan meats. 120 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.457.7700, insalatas.com

L’APPART RESTO

French Owners Bruno Denis and Olivier Souvestre, of Le Garage, o er a menu most Francophiles would be proud of,

PACIFIC CATCH Pan-Asian

The well-priced menu features a bounty of fresh-grilled items and Pacific Rim–inspired small or main plates, including generously portioned wasabi bowls. It’s modeled after the Paia Fish House on Maui, down to the chalkboard menu and Hawaiian music. 133 Corte Madera Town Ctr, 415.927.3474, pacificcatch.com

complete with items like smoked herring, bone marrow and cassoulet de legumes.

636 San Anselmo Ave, 415.256.9884, lappartresto.com

LINCOLN PARK WINE

BAR American Choose between an intimate setting at the marble bar with vintage stools or the lounge room with built-in banquettes. Adhering to a farm-totable and grape-to-glass philosophy, the Lincoln Park Wine Bar serves locally sourced and organic food and wine.

198 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.453.9898, lincolnparkwine.com

MARINITAS Mexican

The sister restaurant of Insalata’s, Marinitas continues to flourish as a bastion of creative Latin cuisine in Marin. It may not be as lowpriced as most Mexican restaurants in the area, but this is not your typical south-of-theborder spot. The festive atmosphere and funky decor complement

PIZZALINA Italian

This restaurant is a neighborhood gathering place to relax and unwind with friends and family. Menus change daily according to the seasonal markets. Pizzas are handmade and cooked in a wood oven; other classic Italian items include shrimp risotto and burrata. 914 Sir Francis Drake Blvd,415.256.9780, pizzalina.com

SAN RAFAEL

AMICI’S EAST COAST

the excellent food for a classy, lively experience. Finish with the rich tres leches cake. This place gets packed, so make reservations.

218 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.454.8900, marinitas.net

PIZZERIA California The array of pizzas includes gluten-free crust options and the new Siciliano, an enticing mix of mozzarella, slowroasted garlic, sausage, broccoli and crushed red pepper flakes, sans tomato sauce. 1242 Fourth St, 415.455.9777, amicis.com

BROKEN DRUM BREWERY & WOOD GRILL American O ering a wide array of eats, handcrafted

and local beers and live music, the Broken Drum is a hot spot for Rafael Theater Patrons (10 percent o entire bill with your ticket stub), passersby and regulars. You’ll find live music Friday and Saturday nights, tacos on Tuesdays and Bloody Marys all day on Sundays. 1132 Fourth St, 415.456.4677, broken drum.com

CHALET BASQUE

French This family-style restaurant serves dishes inspired by the Basque regions of France and Spain, including frog legs in a garlic butter and lemon sauce, and rack of lamb. On a warm night enjoy alfresco dining on the outdoor patio. 405 North San Pedro Rd, 415.479.1070, chaletbasquemarin.com

IL DAVIDE Italian A large selection of both Italian and California wines by the glass along with the dolci menu’s tiramisu have kept locals coming back for years. Don’t leave without sampling the limoncello. 901 A St, 415.454.8080, ildavide.net

MULBERRY STREET

PIZZERIA Italian Chef

Ted Rowe won first place in the Food Network Television Pizza Challenge with his Mushroom Lover’s Pizza — sautéed mushrooms in a creamy garlic sauce atop a fresh pizza crust. Located across from the Smith Ranch Road movie theaters, it’s a great place to grab dinner and a movie. 101 Smith Ranch Rd, 415.472.7272,

mulberry-streetpizzeria.com

SOL FOOD Puerto

Rican With south-ofthe-border treats like yellow rice, beans and plantains and authentic Puerto Rican specialties, this one-room eatery on Fourth Street just o Highway 101 can be hard to get into, but it’s worth the wait. No alcohol served. 903 Lincoln Ave, 415.451.4765, solfoodrestaurant.com

TAJ OFMARIN Indian

Delicious North and South Indian cuisine, from the $8.95 lunch special to dinners that include goat curry, spinach, lentils and tandoori. Gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options available. 909 4th Street, 415.459.9555, tajofmarin.com

SAUSALITO

ANGELINO

RESTAURANT Italian Father-and-son chefs Pasquale and Alfredo Ancona o er handmade pastas and seasonal antipasti at this authentic Italian restaurant, which has been showcasing cuisine of the Campania region for the past 24 years. 621 Bridgeway, 415.331.5225, angelinorestaurant.com

BAR BOCCE American Food tastes better, your company becomes funnier and issues of the day seem trivial when you’re dining on a bayside patio with fire pits and a bocce ball court. Throw in sourdough bread pizzas and a glass of wine, and you’ll see

why this casual eatery, whose co-owner and executive chef is Robert Price of Buckeye and Bungalow 44, has become a local favorite. 1250 Bridgeway, 415.331.0555, barbocce.com

FENG NIAN Chinese

Busy at lunch and dinner, this spacious hangout has been a popular spot for wonton soup, pot stickers and daily specials for nearly two decades. Free delivery. 2650 Bridgeway, 415.331.5300, fengnian.com

FISH Seafood It is all about the fresh catch here. You can dine at one of the picnic tables or purchase fish to cook at home. Casual, and bring cash (lots of it!). 350 Harbor

Dr, 415.331.3474, 331fish.com

KITTI’S PLACE Thai/ California Try weekly specials like the Thai Toast: crispy sliced baguette topped with shrimp and chicken. 3001 Bridgeway, 415.331.0390, kittisplace.com

LE GARAGE French

Escape the touristy Sausalito spots and grab brunch right on the water. The atmosphere is animated with light French music (think Amélie). The Kobe Burger is to die for, and the much-adored croque-monsieur is under $10. Opt for indoor or outdoor seating. 85 Liberty Ship Way, 415.332.5625, legaragebistro sausalito.com

BLUESTONE MAIN

LIGHTHOUSE American Blueberry pancakes, omelets and Danishinfluenced dishes are the draw here. It’s a small space, so be prepared to wait or get there early. 1311 Bridgeway, 415.331.3034, light house-restaurants.com

MURRAY CIRCLE

American Enjoy the sun on the deck of this Cavallo Point restaurant. Locals say they come back for the fresh seasonal specials like wild sturgeon and Wolfe Ranch quail. 601 Murray Circle, 415.339.4750, cavallopoint.com

NAPA VALLEY BURGER COMPANY American

Serving local, all-natural and organic meats, produce and wines, this burger joint o ers classic burgers (glutenfree buns available), fries, salads, tacos and root beer floats. With outdoor and indoor tables, the space can accommodate up to 100 people. 670 Bridgeway, 415.332.1454, napavalleyburgercompany.com

POGGIO Italian A classic Italian trattoria with comfortable neighborhood charm and destination-caliber cuisine. Executive chef Peter McNee cooks up delicious Northern Italian cuisine using fresh and local ingredients, including produce from the nearby Poggio chef garden. 777 Bridgeway, 415.332.7771, poggiotratoria.com

SALITO’S Seafood In a well-known location on Richardson Bay that was most recently home to Paradise Bay. Salito’s features a new look and casual ambience. Enjoy a Nick

and Nora’s Cocktail Special or a signature dish, including whole roasted Dungeness crab, house-made kettle bread served with Straus butter and sizzling iron skillets of mussels. 1200 Bridgeway, 415.331.3226, salitoscrabhouse.com

SAYLOR’S RESTAURANT AND BAR California/Mexican Marin’s first tequila bar o ers over 100 tequila options. Nightly meal specials include chicken potpie, roasted salmon, baby back ribs and traditional meat loaf. Happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m. M-F. 2009 Bridgeway, 415.332.1512, saylorsrestaurantand bar.com

SEAFOODPEDDLER

Seafood A great place to seek out fresh seafood in a warm and inviting environment. Varieties of East and West Coast fish are flown in daily. 303 Johnson St, 415.332.1492, seafoodpeddler.com

SPINNAKER Seafood

Chef Phil Collins excels at preparing seafood, and it shows in the beautiful plate presentations. Set right on the water, this romantic spot is great for an evening occasion. 100 Spinnaker Dr, 415.332.1500, thespinnaker.com

SUSHI RAN Japanese

Fresh, innovative small plates are just big enough to share, the traditional sushi is melt-in-your-mouth good, and the wine, cocktail and sake lists keep even the pickiest barfly satisfied. The prices don’t deter the herd of sushi enthusiasts who line up nightly to partake. Reservations are required in the main

room. 107 Caledonia St, 415.332.3620, sushiran.com

TOMMY’S WOK

Chinese Scrupulously fresh ingredients and free-range chicken make the yellow coconut milk curry here divine. Nice atmosphere and good takeout. 3001 Bridgeway, 415.332.5818, tommyswok.com

THE TRIDENT Seafood

Originally constructed in 1898 for the San Francisco Yacht Club, this waterfront restaurant reopened in October after a remodel. Executive chef James Montejano, known for supporting local farmers, fishermen and organic food producers, prepares dishes like Hawaiian mahi mahi fish tacos and grilled swordfish. 558 Bridgeway, 415.331.3232, thetridentsausalito.com

TIBURON

CAPRICE California

Book the private party room for large groups or just relax in what one Yelp reviewer called “the perfect romantic dinner spot.” Midweek, take advantage of the restaurant’s wellpriced three-course dinners for less than $25. 2000 Paradise Dr, 415.435.3400, thecaprice.com

DON ANTONIO

TRATTORIA Italian

Located in Tiburon’s historic Ark Row, this trattoria o ers authentic Italian cuisine in a quaint setting. The menu includes traditional courses with selections such as chicken piccata, organic roasted rack of lamb and house-made pesto. 114 Main St, 415.435.0400, donantoniotrattoria.com

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GUAYMAS Mexican Situated right next to the Tiburon ferry terminal on the waterfront. The touch-it-you’reso-close city views and outdoor seating make it a great place to bring visitors on a warm summer night. Happy hour is 4 to 7 p.m. M-F. Menu includes specialties like puerco macho — pork loin chop with grilled plantain, topped with an ancho chile, garlic and onion sauce. 5 Main St, 415.435.6300, guaymasrestaurant.com

MILANO Italian Located in the Cove Shopping Center, this familyowned neighborhood spot is known for its pasta and friendly service. A good place to take the kids — or catering option for your next birthday party. 1 Blackfield Dr, 415.388.9100, tiburonmilano.com

MING’S Chinese Hospitable service and large portions are just two of the reasons this family-run business is a favorite. Try the sautéed mango chicken with rice and don’t miss the lunch specials. 1550 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.4312

NEW MORNING CAFE

American Sit outside or indoors at this casual cafe. On a sunny morning, tables will be filled with locals enjoying the sun and extensive breakfast menu; lunch served as well. 1696 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.4315

SALT & PEPPER

American This sunfilled, hardwood-floored one-room restaurant with blue-checkered tablecloths is a local favorite. Popular items on chef Abraham Monterroso’s menu

include scallops, rib-eye steak, a beef burger and traditional crab cakes with jalapeño dipping sauce. 38 Main Street, 415.435.3594

SAM’S ANCHOR CAFE

American Everyone knows Sam’s deck is the prime spot for brunch on a lazy sunny Sunday, and its bar is the town’s historic watering hole, but Sam’s is also a great place for lunch or dinner. Enjoy transfat-free calamari, fresh fish, seasonal salads and pastas. 27 Main St, 415.435.4527, samscafe.com

SERVINO RISTORANTE

Italian Executive Chef Massimo Covello comes to the kitchen via Frantoio and Piazza D’Angelo; here, he cooks up an array of rustic Italian dishes, including house-made pastas, wood oven pizzas and seasonal specialties. A member of Marin Organic and one of Marin’s first eateries to become certified as a green business, Servino uses fresh, local and organic ingredients whenever possible. Check the website for the live music schedule. 9 Main St, 415.435.2676, servino.com

TIBURON TAVERN

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

WEST MARIN

DRAKES BEACH CAFE

American If you’re OK with the long drive, you can’t beat the view and the fresh, local ingredients used to make the burgers, salads and soups at this casual spot (Inverness). Walk on the beach after lunch. 1 Drakes Beach Rd, 415.669.1297, drakescafe.com

NICK’S COVE American

Large windows open the 130-seat eatery to the picturesque Tomales Bay and Hog Island. Menu consists of the freshest available local seafood, oysters and bounty from nearby West Marin farms, including Bodega Bay Dungeness crab cake and Tomales Bay clam chowder (Marshall). 23240 Hwy 1, 415.663.1033, nickscove.com

OSTERIA STELLINA

California Whether it’s to cap o a day of hiking or celebrate a romantic anniversary, Osteria Stellina suits any occasion. If you’re looking for something unusual try the goat shoulder, a favorite of locals and tourists alike. Don’t leave without indulging in the standout lemon ice cream sandwich (Point Reyes). 11285 Hwy 1, 415.663.9988, osteriastellina.com

PARKSIDE CAFE

American Most people know it as the ultimate breakfast spot but lunch and dinners are popular here too. Choose from an array of organic, locally grown produce, artisan meats and wild seafood (Stinson). 43 Arenal Ave, 415.868.1272, parksidecafe.com

PINE CONE DINER

American Just o the main road, Joannie Kwit has re-created the ultimate neighborhood diner. (Point Reyes Station). 60 Fourth St, 415.663.1536, pineconediner.com

RANCHO NICASIO

American Known for live music and an extensive menu featuring everything from Dungeness crab burgers to walnut-crusted goat cheese, Rancho Nicasio is open seven days a week 1 Old Rancheria (Nicasio) Rd, 415.662.2219, ranchonicasio.com

SAND DOLLAR

American Enjoy live music along with barbecued local oysters and clam chowder. Sunny deck is great in the afternoon (Stinson). 3458 Shoreline Hwy, 415.868.0434, stinson beachrestaurant.com

STATION HOUSE CAFE

American Fresh local homegrown foods, served when available, are showcased on the chef’s menu. Stop in on weekends for live music and enticing wine and beer lists. 11180 State Route One, 415.663.1515, stationhousecafe.com

SURFERS GRILL

American The view doesn’t get better than this — nor does the surf salad. Built right out on Stinson Beach, this casual lunch spot o ers up fresh organic salads alongside corn dogs, burgers and fries. Stinson Beach Park, Hwy 1, 415.868.1777, surfersgrill.com

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

ro c kmorton & E. Blithedale 4 15.380.1834 www .materialgrace.com

START PLANNING YOUR SUMMER!

Dominican offers courses during the summer in 14 subjects.

Take advantage of opportunities to:

• Get ahead in completing your GE and major requirements

• Benefit from lower tuition and campus housing rates

• Select courses in 5, 8, or 10 week sessions

• Choose from campus classroom, online, or international offerings

Deals on Meals

Enjoy local restaurants and save 30 percent on meals.Check out

the participating restaurantsin our “Deals on Meals” section and experience big savings.

Spend only $35 for a dining certificate worth $50. Simply go to marinmagazine.com/

dineout to purchase a dining certificate from a restaurant in this section and we will mail it to you. Try a new restaurant or purchase a certificate for an old favorite. A perfect gift for any occasion. Limited supply each month. Dine local — save big time!

Celebrate spring’s bounty at Comforts! Consistently voted, “Best of Marin,” we offer fine city and home-style food. Our menus change regularly to reflect what is fresh and in season, using only the best quality ingredients. Now taking orders for Easter, Passover, and any other spring celebration! Catering & Holiday Menus available at comfortscafe.com.

Comforts Cafe

335 San Anselmo Avenue 415.454.9840

223 Corte Madera Town Ctr

NOW OPEN! LaPlancha Mexican Grill and Tequila Bar. Sizzling with flavor, LaPlancha uses authentic recipes and adds unique twists with a fresh salsa bar, organic tortillas and fresh squeezed juices. Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

LaPlancha Mexican Grill and Tequila Bar

60 Madera Boulevard

415.924.6297

Corte Madera, CA laplanchagrill.com

San Rafael Joe’s wishes everyone the happiest of New Year’s. Wellknown for its contemporary Italian-American cuisine, modest prices, and convivial atmosphere offering a full bar, large dining rooms, banquet facilities, and exceptional live music three nights a week. Open everyday for lunch and dinner!

San Rafael Joe’s

931 Fourth Street

415.456.2425

San Rafael, CA sanrafaeljoes.com

415.927.4400

Corte Madera, CA ilfornaio.com

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

On the Scene

SNAPSHOTS FROM SPECIAL EVENTS IN MARIN AND SAN FRANCISCO EDITED BY D ANIEL JEWETT

LEADERSHIP LECTURE SERIES Former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright was the featured speaker at a sold-out Angelico Hall for Dominican University’s Leadership Lecture Series February 21.

GENE H ILLER CHRISTMAS PARTY

More than 350 guests attended Gene Hiller Menswear’s annual Christmas party held December 1 in Sausalito. The event was in partnership with the Italian Trade Commission and proceeds benefited the American Cancer Society.

MARIN VALENTINE’S BALL The feel of Old New Orleans was in full effect at the 17th annual Marin Valentine’s Ball held at the Civic Center February 9. More than 400 guests helped raise more than $324,000 for charitable organizations.

SAN FRANCI S CO TRIBAL & TEX T ILE AR TS More than 15,000 textiles and antiques from 100 worldwide galleries were present at the 27th annual show held at Fort Mason Center in February. The show is the largest vetted exhibition of tribal art in the U.S.

SMUIN BALLET

Around $300,000 was raised for the ballet’s 20th anniversary season at the Rat Pack–themed event held at the Four Seasons Hotel in San Francisco January 28. Honorary chair Willie Brown Jr. even got into the act, joining a kick-line chorus.

ANGEL LIGHTS

The Angel Island Conservancy held a fundraiser November 29 at the Mill Valley home of Robert Eves and Marcine Engel to raise money to support Angel Island State Park. Guests participated in a live auction and a countdown to turning on the Angel Lights.

SFJA ZZ A LL-STAR GALA

After 9 years of planning and 20 months of construction, America’s first standalone jazz center made its debut in San Francisco January 23. Guests enjoyed soul food and a few words from master of ceremonies Bill Cosby.

S PEAK TO ME Men and women alike enjoyed wine and food and a talk by John Gray, author of Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus, October 23 at the Mill Valley community center as part of the 2012–2013 Speak to Me season.

MOVIE AWARDS N IGHT The renovation of the Novato Theater came a step closer to reality February 24 at Trek Winery as attendees watched a live telecast of the 2013 Academy Awards, enjoyed appetizers and wine and saw plans for the renovation. More than $18,000 was raised.

ARCSANNUAL SCHOLAR AWARDS Marin residents were in attendance at the Achievement Rewards for College Scientists ceremony held at the Fairmont in San Francisco February 20. More than 50 graduate scholars from Northern California universities were awarded scholarships to further their cutting-edge research.

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525 SPRUCE STREET, SUITE 2, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94118, 415.751.0583, PELEDPLASTICSURGERY.COM

What did you want to be when you grew up?

Born and raised in upstate New York, my creativity was somewhat stunted. However, an early obsession of mine was sports. I’ve always fancied myself a sports analyst/journalist/announcer. As my wife says about me while we are watching baseball or football, “You don’t just see the home runs or quarterback passes, you see the athleticism of the team and their ability to play great offense and defense.”

What makes your work worthwhile?

I love what I do. I am a people person and love interacting with all types of clients. I try not only to educate but to infuse conversations with humor and concern. My background was in fashion, which was seasonal and unpredictable. Insurance is going to be around as long as there are risks in our lives.

3020 KERNER BOULEVARD, SUITE C, SAN RAFAEL, CA 94901, 415.457.1021, RICHARD@SIMONINSURANCE.NET, SIMONINSURANCE.NET

Marin Home

FROM TOURS AND MAKEOVERS TO DECORATIVE DETAILS AND REALTOR INSIGHTS

TURNED ON TO TIBURON

The perfect house comes into view for this family of four.

By P Bremier • PHotos By tim Porter

IF YOU ASK entrepreneur Tracey T urner why she and her husband, Jonathan, chose Marin when they were looking for a new home, she’ll tell you it’s because Marin “is magical and the most beautiful place in the world.”

The couple — he’s originally from England and she’s from Connecticut — discovered the trails and open roads of Marin while daytripping from their Noe Valley home in San Francisco. “We love to bike and run, so we found ourselves spending nearly every weekend here,” she says.

And with two young children, they had an eye on the future, notably the need for good schools their daughter Somerset, 3, and son Tristan, 2, could eventually attend.

They liked Tiburon for its quaint downtown and easy commute access to San Francisco. At the time, they were less concerned with style of house or stellar views than with convenience and amenities for young families.

“We didn’t want a house with steep stairs like our San Francisco house and we didn’t want to be in the hills,” Tracey says. “We wanted to be in the flatlands of Tiburon partly

to be able to push strollers and also to have easy access to dog parks.”

At first, the search was discouraging: “It felt a little bit like trying to find a needle in a haystack.” Then they finally found it: a fivebedroom, four-bathroom Southwestern-style residence with an open floor plan on a cul-desac in the mid-peninsula area of T iburon.

The new home “successfully fulfilled all their criteria and more,” says realtor K athleen Cli ord. “It’s one of the rare Tiburon homes that benefits from being in one of the flat areas, and they got a view as a bonus.”

“Our street is fantastic,” Tracey adds. “There were very few kids on the street when we first moved in, but now six out of 10 houses have kids. It’s great for our kids to grow up with so many playmates.”

Initially, she admits, “we dismissed the house because it was not our style, but we

kept coming back to it because of the location. I thought with a little investment, we could change it to a style we could really like. My husband was more reluctant; I brought him back three times before he agreed.”

With expert advice from Cli ord, interior designer Chloe Warner and builder Brian Rickauer, they transformed the place into a lovely Santa Barbara–style home.

A lthough stairs lead to the master bedroom, “it’s basically one level, which is great with tiny kids,” she says. O ne safety concern was the swimming pool; the couple filled it with gravel and covered it with artificial grass. “Now, it’s a beautiful play area with an enclosed fence,” T racey says. “S omeday, if we want to have a pool, we can dig it up again.”

It’s more likely their children will use the local swim club, where they can play with

friends, she adds. “We use the parks and playgrounds, and Tiburon always has great events for kids.”

Tiburon also has much to o er adults: “We walk around Ring Mountain almost every Saturday and Sunday, we like Friday Nights on Main in downtown Tiburon and we love the Caprice restaurant, where we go for date night and special events.”

Then there’s the simple pleasure of taking in the vista from the living room — an expanse that sweeps from the Richmond–San Rafael Bridge to the Golden Gate Bridge with Sausalito, Belvedere and San Francisco in between.

“Funnily enough, we didn’t care about the view when we bought, but the home has such a magnificent view that now we love it,” Tracey says.

“It’s amazing how we lucked out with the views and it’s embarrassing that we weren’t appreciative of them in the first place.” m

THE DETAILS

WHERE THEY PURCHAS ED Tiburon/the mid-peninsula area

WHATTHEY BOUGHT A five-bedroom, four-bathroom home with swimming pool

LI STING AGENT Lydia Sarkissian, Decker Bullock Sotheby’s International

SE LLING AGENT Kathleen Cli ord, Pacific Union and Christie’s Great Estates

STATS Average cost per square foot for homes in neighborhood: $759

To the Letter

They bring good tidings, special o ers, wedding announcements and, sometimes, bills. They are the mailboxes of Marin.

Email a photo of yourself standing by your mailbox to letters@marinmagazine. com; we’ll choose one or more submitted photos to run in the next issue.

PHOTOS BY TIM PORTER

ROSS

Coming Soon. Reminiscent of Napa Valley, this gated, 5bd estate home offers indoor-outdoor living at its finest on a level .66+/acre with pool, outdoor fireplace, and exceptional finishes. Blocks from award-winning Ross School.Price Upon Request

KENT WOODLANDS

Recently rebuilt, this 5bd home offers southern exposure and a fabulous, mostly one-level, open floor plan, opening to custom gardens, views, and multiple outdoor entertaining spaces on .9+/-acre. 153SouthRidgewood.com$2,495,000

Stephanie Lamarre

415.806.3176 stephanie@stephanielamarre.com | stephanielamarre.com

Alain Pinel Realtors not only continues to lead the Bay Area in home sales, but has also been ranked by REAL Trends Magazine as the fifth most productive residential real estate firm in the country, based on sales volume.

Source: 2011

Spring Road, Kentfield

Located in desirable Kent Woodlands on a gated, southwest-facing knoll sits this stylish and modern home, with incredible sun exposure and spectacular views of Mt. Tam and the bay. Pool and privacy.

15Spring.com

$2,800,000 Stephen Pringle 415.720.7832

Ivy Drive, Ross

Elegance and enchantment in this 4bd/3.5ba home featuring superior finishes, high ceilings and total privacy. Spectacular views of Mt Baldy and the Seminary from most rooms and mere blocks to Ross Common.

$2,290,000 Lee Parkhurst 415.506.4138

Sage Court, Novato

One-of-a-kind, 5bd/4ba home nestled into the hillside with panoramic views. 4775+/-sf on almost one acre, master with large walk-in closet/Jacuzzi tub, gourmet kitchen, game room and Pebble Tec pool.

BritAndBarbaraJohnson.com

$2,200,000 Britt Johnson 415.898.6600

In Contra ! In Contra !

Venus

Inverness Drive, San Rafael

BernardLink.com

$2,145,000

Bernard Link

415.336.8676

$2,100,000 Christa Hertzka 415.717.7781

21Echo.com

$1,450,000

And buy the home you really want. We’ll provide up to half of the 20% or more down payment required on a jumbo loan. It’s an investment for us, not a loan, so we don’t charge interest and you make no monthly payments to us, ever. Instead, we earn a return based on the future value of the home. If you qualify for the mortgage but the required down payment is holding you back, find out how REX HomeBuyer can help put you in the home you really want, today.

Pristine Gated Mini-Estate

Elegant Tiburon Estate with Spectacular Bay Views

$5,250,000

Experience the subtle tranquility of this European inspired Tiburon home located on the Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve. Custom built with exacting attention to detail this 5,800+ square foot home offers six bedrooms, five and one half baths plus a 640 sq. ft. bonus room. Sweeping views of Mt. Tamalpais and Richardson Bay are framed by 12’ arched windows and doors throughout. Incredible 12’ to 16’ main floor ceilings evoke the European estate feel with ample room for formal entertaining or elegant dining for fourteen. Spectacular kitchen with custom solid Mahogany cabinetry, informal dining room with panel windows framing Mt Tam, limestone verandas, sculpted gardens with lily pond and so much more. A Must See!

Perfection in Belvedere

Offered at $3,100,000

This fantastic contemporary Belvedere home was built in 1993 and offers an abundance of features for the most discriminating buyer. Views, lush landscaping and a water feature welcome you. The main level features a spacious chef’s kitchen with ample storage, a large island with counter dining space, an adjacent casual dining area or great room, and doors leading to a stone deck with stairs that lead down to the level yard. here is a formal dining area and living room with a wood burning fireplace, also with doors leading to the deck. half bathroom completes this level. pstairs you will find a large office with fabulous views from the San rancisco ay and Angel Island, to the Tiburon Hills and Mt. Tamalpais. Downstairs there are four bedrooms, three full bathrooms, ample storage, a large laundry area, and access to an additional deck and large level lawn. ou will be pleasantly surprised to find a two car garage plus two additional off-street parking spaces upon your arrival. A large storage room is featured below the garage as well. Located in close proximity to schools, elvedere Park, the San rancisco acht Club and offering an easy commute, it doesn’t get better than this.

$4,195,000

Open the front door and feel as if you have stepped into the pages of Dwell. This stunning mid-century modern, perfectly sited on the elvedere agoon, is filled with light and is enhanced by a sandy beach, deck space, lagoon access and a private, enclosed patio. This home provides the canvas for the ultimate casual California lifestyle. Enter through the front courtyard, which is private and gated. The main level is comprised of a formal living room, dining room, spacious and inviting family room, confection of a kitchen with ad acent breakfast area, powder room, an office guest suite with full bath, laundry room with an abundance of storage and an attached two-car garage. The upper level consists of an elegant master suite, and two additional bedrooms and bath. Close to the Town of Tiburon with its shops, restaurants and ferry dock providing a desirable commute to San Francisco. Add to this the bonus of Belvedere’s exceptional schools. It doesn’t get any better!

A 1929 Georgian Colonial set on a stunning park-like lot and has San Francisco City and Bay views. This gated home was updated three years ago for the 2010 Marin esigner Showcase and has a plethora of well conceived contemporary finishes that blend superbly with its classic heritage.

The home was designed by Eldridge “Ted” Spencer, a participating architect for Stanford University's buildings and the Ahwahnee Lodge in Yosemite. The house sits on 1.5 perfectly landscaped acres hosting both a tennis court and a pool. Below that, the property includes an orchard, a home vineyard, rose gardens and an artist studio. otally unique, completely authentic, this classic home exemplifies contemporary design. Old-world East Coast meets San Francisco and the Bay.

Remodeled waterfront beauty with up-close views of the Belvedere Cove, Corinthian & Angel Islands. Beautiful garden entry, formal living & dining rooms with fireplaces & French door access to the sunny, view-side deck. 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, private boat mooring, waterfront privacy & intimate living… $3,495,000

& dining area with shoji-enclosed

&

& black ash floors. Professionally equipped kitchen with separate breakfast nook. Bay & garden views, tatami room, multi-level. 3 master suites. 5 bedrooms, 5 baths… $6,900,000

Majestic, parklike estate. ±9500 sf European-style residence with Mt. Tam views on ±1.42 acres. Two-story entry and staircase of Italian marble, formal living room, terrace overlooking the pool, spa & grounds. 4 bedrooms, 5 full & 3 half baths… $7,500,000 Private and spacious three-story contemporary designed to capture the light and the views of Angel Island and Racoon Straits. Dramatic great room with floor-to-ceiling windows with Bay views, open beam cathedral ceiling and fireplace. Den, family room/library, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths… $2,995,000

Stunning, light-filled, spacious & grand contemporary with captivating Bay views, beautiful finishes, soaring 2-story foyer, stunning glass-walled living room, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 6 fireplaces, pool, spa, steam room, sauna, 4 car garage… $6,295,000

On Belvedere’s West Shore, in the traditional style & exquisitely finished in every detail. Formal living & dining rooms with 14-foot ceilings, stunning kitchen/family area with adjacent view-side patio with stone fireplace; gracious lounge with built-in bookcase, intimate study with fireplace, view-side terrace, & full bath; & 4 en-suite bedrooms including the guest-au pair and the luxurious top-floor master with gorgeous dressing area & bath. Extraordinary tidal estuary that provides the property’s own “moat” and wildlife habitat. Elevator to all floors, radiant heat throughout & refrigerated wine cellar. Four bedrooms, 5.5 baths and sweeping views of Mt. Tam, the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco… $4,995,000

JUST LISTED

Over 1.7 acres of splendid seclusion, at the end of the road and the top of the hill, gated, and surrounded by open space. Architectdesigned for large, airy rooms and open floor plan, this striking contemporary provides ±6,200 sf, large formal living room with vaulted ceiling, stone fireplace & adjacent view-side deck, wonderful skylit kitchen with center isle & butler's pantry, family room with stone fireplace & view-side deck. Main-level master bedroom with view-side deck, large walkthrough closet and luxurious bath. Three upstairs bedrooms, 2 en-suite. Three-car garage. Potential horse property. Four bedrooms, 3.5 baths, & 3 fireplaces… $2,995,000

Wonderfully close-in & private, 2-acre gated estate with sparkling pool, sunny sport-court & ±5,800 sf of beautifully appointed interior space.

Newly remodeled kitchen with granite counters, island with breakfast bar, & adjoining family room with fireplace & back yard access. Large living room with fireplace & beautiful Bay & Richmond Bridge views & top-floor master suite with fireplace, large bath & his/her closets. Children’s wing with 2 bedrooms, separate office with built-ins, TV room & full bath, large guest suite with view-side terrace & marble bath, & separate study. Gated, long driveway, large motor court and 3-car garage. Four bedrooms, 3 full & 2 half-baths, & the private soccer field you always wanted… $6,875,000

Perfect bay-front retreat, offering year-round resort living with waterside deck, pier & boat lift. Newly remodeled, with bright & airy great room with “driftwood” floors, whitewashed & hessian walls, white shuttered windows, open-beam cathedral-ceiling, fireplace and floor to ceiling windows that capture the panoramic view from Golden Gate Bridge through Mt. Tam & the Bay. Kitchen with marbletop isle and counters. Master suite with 2 walk-in closets & large bath. Three bedrooms, 2.5 baths, hot tub, newly landscaped level lawns and gardens, wired for sound inside and out, 2 car garage, and the sound of the water lapping on the rocks… $5,495,000

Stunning contemporary with riveting views spanning the San Francisco skyline, bay and Golden Gate Bridge. Gated, level lawns, private terraces, indoor/outdoor living, smart and green home integration, whole-home automation. Formal living and dining rooms and wonderful kitchen designed for the serious home chef, with Wolf, Miele, Abbaka, Sub-Zero and Franke fixtures, large center isle with breakfast bar, and adjacent family area with fireplace, media center, temp controlled 800-bottle wine room and view-side terrace. Four bedrooms, three and one-half baths… $7,350,000

The 100± acres known as Pegasus Ranch and Fairview Vineyards are located 45± minutes north of the Golden Gate Bridge. This vineyard estate offers a beautiful private residence, guest house, pool, spa, numerous agricultural barns and horse shelters. The vineyard comprises 21± acres planted to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, with possibility to plant more. Privacy, gently rolling hills, micro-climates and views of the setting sun over the Petaluma River. Four-bedrooms, three full and two half baths in the main residence, plus the separate one-bedroom, one-bath guest house… $7,000,000

Poised atop of the tip of the Tiburon peninsula, this stately residence boasts elegance, privacy, and world-class views of the San Francisco skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, and Marin Headlands. The resort-like property boasts a new outdoor kitchen pavilion with a secluded salt-water pool, spa, outdoor “living room” with fireplace, level lawn area, English rose garden and spacious terraces for grand-scale entertaining with all of the accommodations for family living. Gated, remodeled and expanded with six bedrooms, five and one-half baths, approximately 6,100 sq. ft. of living space situated on approximately one-half acre… $7,995,000

Multi-million dollar renovation in this stunning five bedroom, four and one-half bath residence with gorgeous indoor/outdoor spaces and straight-on San Francisco skyline views. Formal living and dining rooms, fabulous kitchen/family room with huge granite-top island, walk-in pantry and built-in desk. Great master bedroom and beautiful bath with walk-through closet, stall and jetted granite tub. Lots of refrigerated wine storage, outdoor kitchen with gas fireplace and sparkling pool. Five bedrooms (four en-suite), four full and two half-baths, central air, three-car garage and vented cigar lounge… $7,495,000

High-dune location with stunning large-window views of the beautiful beach and breakers. Upper (split) level with light-filled great room and the incomparable beach views, vaulted ceiling, great fireplace, built-ins and dining area, adjacent the sunny kitchen, ocean-side master suite and the beach-side lanai. Entry level with central seating/TV area, two bedrooms (one en-suite), hall bath, laundry and the loft that sleeps 6 children. Three bedrooms, three baths, beautiful and private court-yard garden, four-car parking and one of the most beautiful beaches in California… $4,495,000

Sophisticated, rarely available, 3,300 sf Four Seasons Residence transformed under the guidance of Orlando Diaz-Azcuy Design Associates. World-class designs, custom fixtures, richly-layered textures & advanced technology combine with a house-like floor plan –imbued by large exposures to the East, South & West providing abundant light from sunrise to sunset. Large kitchen with center island & spacious adjacent family room, an expansive living room & dining room and a custom library – all connected by a wide formal gallery. A generous master bedroom suite features exposures to the South and East, tailored window benches, “spa-like” dual marble bathrooms joined by a shared shower room and lavish storage. Two guest bedrooms & baths, powder room and a large laundry room complete the apartment. Three bedrooms, four and one-half baths, and located perfectly in the heart of San Francisco… $8,400,000

(415) 384-4000

(415) 517-7720

Two-story entry foyer with formal living and dining rooms, separate office with built-in desk and bookcases, and award-wining stainless steel kitchen with Viking, Meile, Sub-Zero and Russell appliances, three-stool counter, huge walk-through pantry and adjacent family room with fireplace, built-ins and view-side patio access. Upper level with large master suite and the entire San Francisco skyline and Golden Gate Bridge view, lavish bath with jetted tub and separate stall shower, and his and her dressing areas. Children’s wing with central homework area, built-in desks and bookcases, and two bedrooms and hall bath. Lower spa and pool level, with gym, separate steam room, refrigerated wine room, en-suite guest room and second family area with big-screen TV, five-stool bar, pool table and second kitchen with cooktop and oven, level lawn and view-side pool and spa. Five bedrooms, five full and three half baths, private, gated and the world-famous San Francisco and Golden Gate Bridge view… $7,500,000

xtensively remodeled in 20 2, this is one of the most stunning ultra-modern homes in Tiburon. This magnificent home is situated on a large flat .4 ± ac site in one of most sought after streets of Tiburon, with 4BR/3.5BA, large living, dining, family and master bedroom with water views opening to a large deck, yard with swimming pool, spa and garden area. A gourmet chef’s kitchen with eating area, island, all stainless Thermador appliances, Caesarstone counter tops and Italian design cabinets. The gated entry leads to a large drive way with attached 2 car garage.

offered at $4,100,000

EAUTIFUL AR SPUR HOME FOR OUT OOR I ING

Imagine the very best of everything presented with artistry and craftsmanship to create an environment that delights the spirit. Attention to detail featuring inlaid travertine and red knotty pine floors, gourmet kitchen with granite counters and topof-the line stainless appliances, formal dining room, stately living room perfect for entertaining. This tri-level home includes 4BR/3BA, artist room, music room and family room second to none. Incredible backyard entertaining dining area and grassy level yard. Close to downtown, open land and schools.

offered at $3,200,000

The spectacular vistas are accentuated throughout this serene entfield state. You will enjoy the SF skyline, Mt. Tamalpais, the expansive valleys, San Pablo Bay and the Marin and Sonoma Ridges. n a private . acre lot, this property offers 4 bedrooms, family room, exercise room, 3 remodeled baths and an open epicurean kitchen. Located in Ross School District and featuring over 4200sf, a wine room, wood floors, high ceilings, an infinity pool with water features, an outdoor kitchen, firepit, level lawns, 4-car garage, a gated entry and a separate bedroom apartment. offered at $3,780,000

A ELL EPT SAN AFAEL SE RET

Located in an enclave of high-end homes, this ideal home combines bright, open living areas and multiple entertainment rooms-all with views of the hills. The connoisseur’s kitchen has ample cabinetry and counters, an island, a walk-in pantry and is adjacent to a sunny dining area, family room and large deck. The oversized master has a walk-in closet, private office and a spacious master bath with separate shower and bathtub. In addition there are four more bedrooms, an open loft near the master and a wonderful recreation room. The 3-car garage, decks, paths, and spa make this a must-see home

offered at $1,775,000

EXQUISITE MILL VALLEY HOME

Situated in a quintessential Mill Valley setting and surrounded by Horse Hill. This stunning 5BR/4BA contemporary home represents the very essence of perfection. Sleek lines, masterful architecture, bold interiors and natural surroundings all blend to make this home universally appealing. Interior features include dramatic entry with travertine floors leading to an emblematic Archie Held bronze fountain. The house features high ceilings, hardwood floors, custom gourmet kitchen, professional stainless appliances, and granite countertops.

offered at $2,295,000

A FAIRFAX OASIS

This delightful home is wonderful inside and out. A spacious home, with four bedrooms and three baths, in a highly sought after neighborhood. You’ll enjoy plenty of space with over 2800± square feet, with an open floor plan, in a magical setting. Located in the lower cascades in Fairfax, this home is in a truly magical setting. Set off the creek with a nice sized flat yard, koi pond, and plenty of play areas. Located in the flats, close to town, shops, restaurants, parks and world class hiking and biking. Not to be missed.

$899,000

GELMAN (415) 686-1855

STUNNING SAN ANSELMO VIEWS

This stylish, spacious and light home overlooking San Anselmo will take your breath away. Features include: a large open kitchen, family room with fireplace, formal dining room, step down living room with vaulted ceilings, fireplace and views of Mt. Tam. Three bedrooms, two and one-half baths including a huge master suite. Attached two car garage. Garden area. Desirable Sequoia park neighborhood. Award winning schools. Close to town and shops. A truly stunning home and amazing value.

offered at $899,000

CONTEMPORARY SAN ANSELMO

Don’t miss this amazing 3BR/2BA home in the sought after Sequoia Park neighborhood. This home boasts an open floor plan with gleaming wood floors and amazing Mt. Tam views. This peaceful home also includes a master suite, living and dining rooms that open to wonderful view decks. A spacious two car garage, plenty of storage and a grassy dog run complete this lovely home. All this, plus close proximity to all the shops and restaurants in San Anselmo; as well as public transportation and wonderful hiking and biking trails. Award winning schools top off this great opportunity.

offered at $759,000

25 Martling Rd, San Anselmo • $2,500,000 25MartlingRd.com

Nearly new 5 BR/4.5 BA Mediterranean home with open floor plan, quality finishes and dramatic soaring ceilings. Contemporary in design but finished with classic warm wood touches. Beautifully landscaped level yard.

Peter and Karin Narodny

415.925.3287 | 415.925.3286

101 Sleepy Hollow Dr, San Anselmo • $2,299,000 101SleepyHollowDr.com

A beautiful Mediterranean-inspired home in flats of Sleepy Hollow with 4BR/3BA, guest house with full bath, pool and extensive gardens. Custom features, attention-to-detail and exquisite finishes. Truly a remarkable home!

pnardony@fhallen.com | knardony@fhallen.com

DRE: #708646 | DRE: #00550056

Atherton Area, Novato • $1,489,000

Comfortable elegance abounds in this 4BR + office, 3.5BA home of +/- 4,300 s.f. on a level acre. Chef’s kitchen; huge family room. Zoned for horses.

Toni Shroyer tshroyer@fhallen.com

415.640.2754

DRE#: 01876201

Buying, Selling, Investing?

There’s never been a better time. Allow us to put our knowledge of Marin’s marketplace to work for you. Serving Marin since 1977

171 Dipsea Road, Stinson each • $2,050,000

171Dipsea.com Days of entertaining, swimming and boating are yours in this graciously appointed 2BR/2.5BA home on Seadrift Lagoon. Open great room, chef’s kitchen, dining area to seat twelve and custom built-in seating and cabinetry. An ideal coastal retreat with magnificent gardens and outdoor entertaining spaces.

Judy LeMarr, PMN, CRS Luxury Home Marketing Specialist� Secretary, Marin Association of REALTORS 415.793.5030 cell MarinDreamHome.com • DRE #1242589

t nn n oa ta etreat, o na • $ ,9 0,000 Magnificent views & complete privacy. Exquisitely remodeled main home on 13+/- acres; guest quarters, barn, pond, orchards and vegetable garden. Less than an hour’s drive from SF.

BG Bates 415.706.1026 • BG@BGBates.com bgbates.com dre ���������

ron ater ront e • $ , 9 ,000

Incomparable beachfront seclusion and magnificent views. Meticulously detailed 3BR/2.5BA home exudes casual elegance. Three-car carport, additional deeded lots that adjoin property.

Hazel Carter ���.���.���� hcarter@fhallen.com dre ���������

THE QUEEN OF ANDERSON VALLEY

Exceptional 80 acre Mendocino Ranch!

The Queen has a wonderful mix of property features. Along the bottom there are about 30 acres of open flat to rolling grassland. These cross fenced pastures are home to a family of llamas today, but could just as easily be planted to approximately 20 acres of World renowned Anderson Valley Pinot Noir vines. Walk beyond the grasslands to Anderson Creek, a year round tributary to the Navarro river. A lovely pond sits at the entrance to a lush redwood forest. To this wonderful property, the owners added a lovely custom 2800 sq. ft. home with panoramic views of the Anderson Valley and a hobby vineyard. Three additional homes o er caretaker, guest, family or income quarters. Located in the heart of Anderson Valley, the ranch o ers privacy and easy access. O ered at a reduced price of $1,995,000

Ag/Winery Potential! The ranch is also being o ered with two additional, adjacent parcels. A 3.5 acre 6-space trailer park with Anderson Creek Frontage and 11.5 acres of superb ag land with Hwy frontage. Both have historical water rights from the Creek. 95+/- Acres. O ered at $2,545,000

Tim Mathias • tim@rancheriarealty.com • (707) 895-3333 www.rancheriarealty.com

SUSAN BOWMAN & DANA JOHNSON PARK

20 Upper Road, Ross • Offered at $3,100,000

This iconic mid-century modern home was originally built in 1959 and sits on approximately 1.3 acres of land. With floor-to-ceiling windows throughout its 3,769 +/- sf, it provides true indoor/outdoor living and magnificent views of Mt. Tam, Ross Valley, the Berkeley hills and the San Francisco Bay. The gated property is conveniently located in desirable Old Ross and is extremely private and serene. Located near the distinguished and remodeled Ross School, the local market, popular boutiques and salons, world-class hiking and biking trails and Phoenix Lake, this property has it all.

140 Bella Vista Avenue, Belvedere - List Price $3,495,000

12 De Silva Island, Mill Valley - List Price $1,345,000 74 Berens Drive, Kentfield - List Price $1,249,000

122 Southern Heights Blvd., San Rafael - List Price $669,000

Pacific Union International is proud to welcome Stacey

Lamirand

to our team of luxury professionals

Kathleen Clifford

Living the Good Life

212 Jamaica Street, Tiburon

Relax, unwind, ENJOY----the life you have been waiting for is here! Imagine coming home to waterfront, one level living, offering all the amenities and features you have ever wanted. The exceptional gourmet kitchen has been designed with every detail a chef truly desires: Viking, Subzero, gorgeous green granite countertops, window seat breakfast area and storage galore. Cathedral ceilings highlight the enormous family room with built in bookshelves and entertainment areas. Formal living and dining rooms, artfully designed, entice you to entertain. A restful master suite, overlooking the gardens and water, provides a peaceful respite. In addition to kids/guest bedrooms, this home also offers an office, wine closet and one of the best laundry ‘mud’ rooms ever.

Price upon request

With large spaces, clean lines and minimalist décor, this modern yet traditional Green Certified showcase home, located on an acre of land with stunning ocean views, is the perfect home to experience the best in California living. Among its beautifully finished fixtures and features are dark bamboo flooring throughout the first level, top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, 11 foot ceilings on the main floor, and spa-like baths. This stunning newly built 5 bedroom, 4½ bath property exudes warmth, refinement, and style, with high-quality behind the scenes amenities including dualzone heating/air conditioning, CAT5 network cabling, alarm system, and Certified Green Point Rating.

5922 square feet on 1 acre of land • 5 bed/4.5 baths • Large kitchen/family room open to outside patio and yard • playroom • private office

Hacienda Drive, Tiburon

The Dawning of a New Era

WJIM WOOD

Changes brought by the Golden Gate Bridge were gradual. BY

HAT, NO TRAFFIC? This aerial shot, taken days before the opening of the Golden Gate Bridge, shows not a car on Highway 101 leading into Marin County. At the time, Marin’s population was approaching 50,000. Then came World War II and many families found work in Sausalito’s shipyards. By 1950, there were 85,600 people in Marin, an increase of 72 percent. Over the next 10 years, the county’s population jumped another 72 percent to 146,820 (it’s now around 255,300). In 1970, increased tra c dictated that Highway 101 be doubled in width and the Waldo Tunnel be given a second bore. The above photo was shot by the late Raymond Moulin of Moulin Studios in San Rafael, whose collection of photographs of the West during the 1900s, particularly the Bay A rea, is one of the nation’s largest. m