Marin Magazine January 2013

Marin

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

36 Let the Sunshine In A family finds big things in small spaces.

44 Wine Country Weddings Four couples take advantage of the beauty of wine country.

52 The Devil Is in the Details The ultimate one-year countdown to the big day.

First love, heels Second

No matter what you re head over heels about, elfa can help you organize it. With its gorgeous finishes and endless options, elfa is the perfect fit for everything from your four-inch platforms to your favorite ballet flats. Add the fact that our experts will design and install it all for you, and you’ve found your perfect sole-mate.

In Marin

23 Currents Big guns, Studio 333, Sara’s List, calendar contest and Twin Cities police go green.

28 Q&A Marin’s first female police chief.

30 Style Gearing up for cold weather.

32 Conversation Larry Meredith talks about Marin’s health and wellness.

Destinations

69 Go Maui uncovered and the secret of yoga vacations.

72 Travel Buzz What’s happening in wine country.

Out & About

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

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

92 Flavor Vasco’s simply delicious pesto crème.

Marin Home

107 Backstory Finding the perfect home in an area where community and nature converge.

Discover an alpine paradise where the deep blue water of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierra mountains provide the perfect backdrop for your wedding. Choose from a variety of indoor and outdoor venues in which to exchange your vows, followed by an unforgettable celebration for your family and friends. It’s the most important day of your life. Allow our event specialists to assist you in planning the wedding of your dreams. From concept to completion, no detail is too small. To experience: laketahoe.hyatt.com or 775 886 6693. Hyatt. You’re More Than Welcome.

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

Melissa Gardner White, Sophie Shulman, Calin Van Paris

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Somer Flaherty, Stephanie Martin, Mark Morford, Matthew Richard Poole

Art

ART D IRECTOR Veronica Sooley

P RODUCTION M ANAGER Alex French

CONTRIBUTING P HOTOGRAPHERS

Mo DeLong, Meghan Roberts, Eric Rorer, Debra Tarrant, Nike van der Molen

Advertising

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D IRECTOR

Volume 9, Issue 1. Marin Magazine

Media. All

in Marin County by

Copyright©2013. Reproduction of Marin Magazine content is prohibited without the expressed, written consent of Open Sky Media. Unsolicited materials cannot be returned. Marin Magazine reserves the right to refuse to publish any advertisement deemed detrimental to the best interests of the community or that is in questionable taste. Marin Magazine is mailed monthly to homes and businesses in Marin County. Subscription rates are $12 per year. Marin (USPS 024-898) is published monthly by Open Sky Media, One Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965. Periodicals Postage Paid at Sausalito, CA, and at additional mailing o ces. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Marin Magazine, One Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965.

Cheers! Announcing the 2013

This year’s Drink & Dine Local series takes guests on an extraordinary tasting tour of wines and beers handcrafted in Northern California. Offerings are mindfully matched with four delicious courses prepared by Murray Circle’s noted chef, Justin Everett. At each event, an expert from our featured winery or brewery will be your host and guide, sharing an insider’s perspective. Our 2013 series kicks off with a Tasting Tour of Spirited Sonoma County:

WE MADE IT. Another year down with a bright 2013 just getting started. This month we celebrate new beginnings with stories about sunny homes, spectacular weddings, healthy travel and much more.

We kick o our features this month with a look at that sunny home. We meet a family of four who have made the most out of their cozy

1942 cottage in Mill Valley’s Sycamore Park. You’ll be inspired to see how far this home and neighborhood, both born in wartime, have come. And you may take a few design ideas with you to use in your own home.

Next up we bring you our ultimate wedding guide. You’ll be introduced to four couples who said “I do” in the wine country in 2012. You’ll see what they wore and how they decorated and celebrated. We follow that with a timeline featuring tips on when to do what — hint: it may be time to book that DJ now. A nd our wedding guide features vendors, venues and more, all ready to help you make the most out of your big day.

Up front we sit down and talk with Marin’s first female police chief and we have stories on the man behind Sausalito’s Studio 333, the creator of Sara’s List, Bank of Marin calendar winners (including our former intern Lena Felton) and a green police station.

In Destinations we bring back our Appellations department celebrating wine and winemakers near and far. Also, SFGate columnist Mark Morford tackles the concept of yoga vacations while travel writer Matthew Richard Poole uncovers the best of Maui.

So enjoy this month’s issue and have a fantastic year — we think it’s going to be a great one.

Marin Magazine Staff Editors

You’ll be introduced to four couples who said ‘I do’ in the wine country in 2012.

A TRADITION CONTINUES

Veronica Sooley (left) had always looked up to her cousin, Inga Kleinrichert (right), and it was no different when it came down to her wedding. There was a specific photo of Inga (taken by photographer Anna Kuperberg) that Veronica had always admired and wanted to re-create for her bridal portraits. Now her younger cousins promise to carry on the tradition of the veiled bride. See page 48.

Cover photo by Elizabeth Hurley Photography

On Thin Ice

Tiburon environmentalist’s views differ from those of a popular documentary.

LThe resulting shots show massive mountains of snow and ice crumbling into the sea like sand castles facing an incoming tide.

BY JIM WOOD

AST S UNDA Y, I saw Chasing Ice, the award-winning documentary at the Rafael Film Center. It’s a gorgeous film that made several claims about the causes and e ects of global climate change.

The film features National Geographic photographer James Balog, who set out to prove the earth’s atmosphere is indeed warming. To do this, he focused 24 time-lapse cameras on massive glaciers in Greenland, Iceland, Alaska and Montana. It was a herculean task. His cameras were in place for three years, clicking photos hourly during daylight. The resulting shots show massive mountains of snow and ice crumbling into the sea like sand castles facing an incoming tide. The images make a very convincing case for global warming.

Chasing Ice was so convincing, I wanted to discuss its content with Bill Lindqvist, a Tiburon resident who for years has held contrarian views regarding climate change. Bill’s an easygoing guy who’s traveled the world as a consulting geologist. He holds a doctorate from Imperial College London and considers himself an environmentalist. “For the past 10 years,” he says, “I’ve been a student of global climate change; I’ve attended several conferences and given numerous talks on the topic.”

Here are some highlights of our discussion: Chasing Ice: Arctic ice cores, reflecting the temperature and carbon dioxide (CO2) content of the earth’s water and air going back 800,000 years, show CO2 levels of 280 parts per million (ppm) up to the industrial revolution. Then CO2 levels climb dramatically to 390 ppm and are heading to more than 500 ppm.

Lindqvist: That’s about right. And there’s no doubt humans are contributing to that increase. But it’s a minor change and probably not measurable. To blame global warming on an increase of a trace gas in the atmosphere, where water vapor is the dominant greenhouse gas, challenges credibility. With every breath, we humans take in 390 ppm of CO2 and breathe out

a hundred times that amount. We wouldn’t be here without CO2; there’d be no plant life. It’s a fact that U.S. submariners breathe up to 8,000 ppm of CO2 when submerged.

Chasing lce: Glaciers are melting at an advanced rate, and within 75 years sea levels will rise one to three feet and displace 150 million people.

Lindqvist: Glacial melting has been occurring for 13,000 years, since the end of the Ice Age. I’ve done work in British Columbia, where the glaciers disappeared 150 years ago. In New Zealand, where I’m from, glaciers are advancing; meanwhile, in Antarctica they’re somewhat stable. As for rising sea levels, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has tracked sea levels near San Francisco for the past 155 years and it’s a straight line showing an average increase of just 2 millimeters a year. But you don’t hear about that. Meanwhile, the Bay Conservation and Development Commission is showing sea levels rising 16 inches by mid-century and 55 inches by 2100. Those are scare tactics. NOAA’s calculations project only three inches by mid-century and seven inches by 2100. Still, I agree levees should be built along the bay because sea levels are rising. But build them at a gradual and responsive rate.

Finally, Chasing Ice shows dramatic footage of a glacier half the size of Manhattan (including skyscrapers) dissolving into the sea. Lindqvist’s response: “Spread across the globe, that wouldn’t even be measurable.” And there was much more. Lindqvist is worth listening to. He isn’t saying global climate change is a vast conspiracy; rather, he says, “It’s a momentum-driven movement involving the livelihoods of thousands of people who have to put food on the table — and grants and jobs go to those who supposedly can prove the worst is about to happen.” His view on the future of the earth’s climate: “It will fluctuate as it has over the past 4 billion years.”

Two hours with Bill Lindqvist gave me occasion to think. Now, regarding global climate change, I’m not a confirmed doubter nor am I totally convinced. I’ll continue to study and follow this issue closely — while composting, recycling and making a best e ort to minimize my carbon footprint. That’s my point of view. What’s yours?

Email pov@marinmagazine.com.

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» Marin is already a great place to live, and these new businesses are making it even better.

EATS

Devoted yogis and yoginis can now say “namaste” to 1 Yoga Tree Corte Madera , which opened this fall in the Marketplace mall (next to Book Passage) with a studio space, juice bar and classes led by both renowned guests and beloved local teachers; yogatreesf.com. To look good doing your tree pose, seek out Zobha , a new yoga and activewear boutique in downtown Mill Valley; zobha.com

Mill Valley has two new sources of natural organic skin care products: 2 Marie Veronique Organics just opened its very first retail store on Miller Avenue; mv organics.com. Beauty consultant Carole Lee is now selling her own line of U.S. Department of Agriculture–certified organic skin care products, Oils of Youth , online; oilsofyouth.com

3 Hopmonk Tavern has taken over the Southern Pacific Smokehouse space in Novato o ering food, drinks and music; hop monk.com. Carnivores can find beef and more at 4 Belcampo Meat Co. in Marin Country Mart, which sources meat from the livestock of its ranch at the base of Mount Shasta; belcampomeatco.com.

5 Jumpstart MD, the medical weight management program most recommended by Bay Area doctors, has been in Marin since last year. At its new o ce in Greenbrae, patients learn about a science-based approach to weight loss free of packaged foods or restrictive menus. jump startmd.com.

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Your Letters

Consolidation Conversation

A very interesting article in the December issue (POV). I have known Pat Burke for many years and he did an excellent job on the grand jury. I understand why he wants to consolidate many of the agencies in Marin as there is a lot of overlap that is unnecessary. I would have no problem with combining sewer agencies, but I do have a problem with other proposed combinations. I have been a real estate broker in Marin for 56 years and have lived in Mill Valley since 1955. My two sons went through all the schools in Mill Valley. I see no reason why Mill Valley residents should have to pay for San Rafael’s or the county’s poor fi scal policies. Mill Valley has always had excellent council members and city managers

and has had, and presently does have, a large reserve budget, something most cities do not. Also, for years, even though Mill Valley has many seniors, like myself, residents have always passed measures to provide money for our schools. As a realtor, I can tell you one of the main reasons buyers of homes in Mill Valley pay higher prices for our homes is because of our outstanding school system. Since Mill Valley, in its city budget and schools, has done such an outstanding job, I see no reason to have to get mixed up in outside matters. B.M.

WRISLEY, VIA EMAIL

I have read your point of view on the subject (POV, December 2012) above in the latest Marin Magazine. You have asked for mine and

ONLINE, WE ASKED YOU

What is your favorite place for a cocktail in Marin and what do you like?

“Square One dirty martini on the rocks at Picco bar (Larkspur).”

Kristi Taaffe

“Dark and stormy at Brick and Bottle (Corte Madera).”

Marie Zanoni-Begg

“Buck Juice at Buckeye (Mill Valley).”

Jennifer Pierce McGhie

“San Rafael Joe’s, tonic and lime (San Rafael).”

Deborah Ann Ahern-Perchetti

“The jalapeño margarita at Saylor’s (Sausalito).”

Brian Capehart

here it is. This month’s column about reorganizing local government is the second time I have read this suggestion in your column. I have read both articles carefully and both times I have been unable to figure what benefit would come from such a suggestion. What is better about running Marin as San Francisco is run? Your suggestion ignores the situations that could only be exacerbated by such a change. I can think of at least three occasions when allowing the county to make the decisions alone would have brought only disaster. The first is the long-delayed approval of a revolutionary and exciting flood control plan to protect the Ross Valley; the second is the as-yet unrealized planned development on the top of King Mountain; and the third is the saving of more than 200 acres of spectacular Marin Headlands. It is all very well to be satisfied with roads, police and fire protection, but there are other places that citizens need to be involved and need the support of their communities. You have brought up some interesting ideas that need to be considered, but only in the light of the total picture. NANCY PRAETZEL, KENTFIELD

Pat Burke is suggesting something that I learned during my 17 years on the San Anselmo city council and taken it a step beyond what I have been writing about for some time. In Marin, “consolidation” is still the third rail of local politics, mainly challenged as a threat to “local control,” or worse yet “home rule.” The key to some sort of serious discussion, in my view, might be if the supervisors invited the county administrator, mayors, city managers and special district managers to a two- or three-day gathering where all of the possibilities could be discussed and vetted in confidence in a conference type of setting. Hats o to Mr. Burke — I could talk about this for hours.

PETER BREEN, SAN ANSELMO

In the December issue of Marin Magazine (POV), senior writer Jim Wood reflects on county grand jury foreman Pat Burke’s idea to restructure our county into the “City and County of Marin” consisting of 11 districts, à

Make The New Year

Gorgeous

Showroom 383 Salon

Showroom

la San Francisco. Bad idea. Here’s why. I like the way the city functions. When I call the compliance o cer or police department about some yard maintenance contractor from San Rafael using a prohibited gas-powered leaf blower, somebody takes care of it. When my wife complains about a faux homeless veteran endangering himself and motorists by begging at the East Blithedale tra c light, the city manager responds. If you think Marin County — which has promised its public employees $370 million to $745 million in pension and benefits it doesn’t have — is a responsible administrator not only of your money, but also of land use, housing, transportation, education and all the other things that matter to your community, go ahead and jump on the City and County of Marin bandwagon. But don’t complain when a chunk of open space near you is buried under a 30-unit a ordable housing project mandated by ABAG’s One Bay Area. WILLIAM BUCHANAN, VIA EMAIL

AChilling Account

First, a little background: I’m a little bit of a groupie of the sailing world and totally into the America’s Cup. Same for surfing; I love to watch people surf and am totally into Mavericks. Nonetheless, I am neither a sailor nor a surfer. Despite that, I really enjoyed your stories on the Farallones sailing disaster (“Eight Souls Aboard,” October and November 2012). First, it was a hauntingly chilling account of what happened that day from start to finish. The writer made me feel like I was on the boat. Second, I was impressed with the dignity and respect paid to all the people involved. Written incorrectly, the story could have been seen as a posthumous hit piece perhaps vilifying certain people who “messed up” and caused the tragedy. Instead, to me, it served as a beautifully written eulogy for those who lost their lives. I think that is one of the best stories I have ever read. Great job, Marin Magazine. C LIFF WALDECK, VIA EMAIL

Libertarian Loss

I was incredibly disappointed to note your endorsement of the Libertarian candidate for President, Gary Johnson (POV, November 2012). With Johnson receiving less than 1 percent of the total votes cast

here, your position was completely out of touch with the electorate of the county, the readership of the magazine, and quite likely, your very own staff. I can’t begin to express how abhorrent I find the utter selfishness that underlies Libertarianism. Obviously, you’re entitled to your opinion; however, you’re not entitled to my loyalty as a reader.

PAUL TASNER, VIA EMAIL

Jim Wood: I did not endorse Governor Johnson, rather I stated he “is worth a closer look.” I was intrigued that a successful businessman and former governor — one who put forth many attractive positions and was on the ballot in all 50 states — had been virtually ignored by the mainstream media.

Cool Water

For your readers who are interested in clean, locally sourced water delivered right to their homes and businesses (“What’s on Tap?” November 2012), may we suggest another option: tap water. The Marin Municipal Water District has been providing “homegrown” water to Marin residents for 100 years. Our water comes from rainfall captured in our reservoirs on the slopes of Mount Tamalpais and in West Marin, and from Sonoma County’s Russian River. We have invested millions to protect our watershed lands, and we conduct more than 100,000 tests a year to ensure the highest quality. Perhaps best of all, our clean, local water is delivered to your tap 24/7 for just half a penny per gallon. L

IBBY PIS C HEL, PUBLI C I NFORMAT ION O FFI C ER, M ARIN M UNI CIPAL WAT ER DIS T RICT

Correction

The name of the beneficiary and the name of the film for the “Film Night at the Shop” event in our On the Scene section (Page 92, November 2012) were incorrectly identified. The beneficiary was Night Train Swimmers and the film was What It Takes

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

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In Marin

CELEBRATING THE PEOPLE, PLACES AND CAUSES OF THIS UNIQUE COUNTY

BIG GUN, BIG BUS

Calling all Marin history buffs: January may be the best time to view an original World War II big gun (68 feet long, 120 tons, with a 16-inch barrel) recently transported to Battery Townsley in the M arin Headlands, because next month, construction resumes along Bunker Road. Fortunately, Muni has just added a permanent new transportation alternative: Working with the National Park Service, the San Francisco M unicipal Transportation Agency has expanded bus service to the Marin Headlands in Golden Gate N ational Recreation Area to include Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. 511.org M EL I

BOOKS

Reading List

Telegraph Avenue by Michael Chabon, Harper, $27.99. Big (468 pages), humorous and ambitious. Set in a threatened record store, circa 2004, on the border between Oakland and Berkeley. “An amazingly rich and emotionally detailed story,” says The New York Times

Detox Diet, Third Edition: The Definitive Guide for Lifelong Vitality with Recipes, Menus, and Detox Plans by Dr. Elson M. Haas with Daniella Chace, 10 Speed Press, $16.99. Haas, a longtime advocate and educator on health, has taught other doctors, clinicians and patients how to successfully detoxify and improve health with his diets. This 262-page book details the importance of including regular detoxification diets as part of a healthy routine.

Industrial Light and M agic: The Art of Innovation by Pamela Glintenkamp, Abrams, $50. San R afael’s ILM was founded in 1975 by George Lucas and, just a few years later, his team won an Oscar for the visual effects in Star Wars The rest is history and much of it is in this well-reviewed volume that’s full of photos. J IM WOO D

Christopher Holbrook, Studio 333

333 Caledonia Street, Sausalito, studio333.info

As a Sausalito native, Christopher Holbrook has seen the local art scene ebb and flow over the decades. He opened Studio 333, named Sausalito’s 2012 small business of the year, in June 2002 to help bring back the art culture he grew up with. How would you describe S tudio 333? A family of artists who enjoy working in a visually inspiring space. Why S ausalito? I have such fond memories of the eclectic artists and people I encountered growing up here in the ’70s and I wanted to create a space to revive that spirit. And owning a local business has given me the scheduling freedom to participate in my son’s field trips when he was in elementary school and, later, coach his football and baseball teams at Tamalpais High School. You also host events; have any favorites? While every wedding I’ve seen here could be my favorite, I’m humbled by the love, forgiveness, happiness and courage demonstrated by The Art of Transformation, an annual exhibit of works by troubled youth throughout the Bay Area. What can people expect to find at the gallery? We feature dozens of artists at any given time working in various mediums including acrylic, oil, fine art photography, mixed media, sculpture, jewelry, glass and watercolor, just to name a few. Your take on the present state of M arin’s art community? Considering the latest Marin Open Studios had more than 300 participants, I’d say it’s better than ever. How might an artist appear on your walls? Call me. CAL IN VAN PARIS

MOVE OVE R CRAIG There’s a new list in town. Inspired by her own experience trying to buy and sell furniture while moving, Sara Thomas, San Rafael mother of two, created Sara’s List, an online marketplace for higher-end (average listing price $800) new and used furniture. So far, so good — since her launch last year, business has increased exponentially. Features include a “Buy It Now” option that lets registered users post or view photos and a “Storefronts” section where industry professionals can sell floor samples and pre-owned inventory. A 15 percent commission is taken on sales transactions. saraslist.com M .G.W.

Calendar Contest

Congratulations to the young winners of this year’s Bank of Marin calendar photography contest. All entrants are from local high schools and calendars are available at all Bank of Marin branches this month. MIMI TOWLE

Green Police

The new $18 million, state-of-the-art sustainable Twin Cities Police Headquarters in Larkspur (which also serves Corte Madera) becomes home to a third jurisdiction this month, the San Anselmo Police Department. With the reduced number of supervisors and administrators, the newly created Central Marin Police agency (likely name) will save about $1 million a year and allow for more o cers to be on the streets. According to 27-year veteran Twin Cities police o cer Ernie Schwarz, San Anselmo o cers have a lot to look forward to with the new environmentally conscious digs, completed just last year. While he is retiring in two years — “I’ve done my time,” he says with a laugh — Schwarz is serious when discussing how the new space helps o cers serve Marin citizens. M . G. W.

O cer Schwarz’s favorite features:

A n in-house state-of-the-art evidence lab for processing fingerprints, gunshot residue and bodily fluids.

Two holding cells with security features like toilets that only flush from outside the cell.

A spacious locker room — five times larger than the old one — with three solar-heated showers and high-efficiency plumbing fixtures.

Water-efficient landscaping with native plants and climate-based irrigation controllers that reduce usage by 72 percent.

Energy-saving, naturally lit offices: 90 percent of work spaces have a view of the outdoors.

13 QUESTIONS FOR

Jennifer Tejada

Sausalito Police Chief ORINDA

Besides being one of the first local police chiefs you’d call pretty, Jennifer Tejada has found many other ways to break the mold. She was the first in her family to become a police officer, she studied anthropology at UC Berkeley and she doesn’t have a favorite coffee spot in town — instead she takes walks along the Sausalito waterfront. Tejada joined the Novato Police Department in 1996, where she became the first female lieutenant and captain of that department before going to Sausalito, where she became the first female chief of a municipal police department in Marin. In fact, Tejada and San R afael’s Diana Bishop are two of the only 23 fully ranking female police chiefs in California. Tejada grew up 90 miles south of Dublin, Ireland, and now lives in the East Bay with her husband, Eric, a lieutenant with the U C Berkeley Police Department, and their two children, Aoife and Tighe. MIMI TOWLE

1

A nthropology? Yep. While most of my colleagues studied criminal justice, anthropology has come in handy. Good analytical and writing skills are important for this job.

2 Typical day? There’s never a typical day.

3 Favorite thing to say when you pull someone over? Back in the day when I worked traffic and the violation wasn’t serious, I used to ask if they preferred a ticket or a lecture and they usually opted for the lecture. Twenty minutes later they regretted it.

4

5

6

7

Flip-flops or high heels when you go out? Flip-flops and sweats.

Regular coffee or latte? Fully loaded double latte with two shots.

Prius or pickup? Paddleboard.

How do you de-stress? My husband calls me the bee whisperer. I love caring for our beehive; I get right out of my world and right into theirs.

8

Are there advantages to being a woman in your job? No advantage, but I do bring something different to the role. Women are known to be good at listening, negotiating and verbal skills; I fit into that category. However, many men have these qualities as well.

9 M ost preventable crime in M arin? Many crimes are preventable and DU I is the one that comes to mind — the choice to drink and drive can have devastating consequences. But I have a lot of passion around the issue of sexual assault and domestic violence. D.V. is the number-one violent crime in Marin County — and it is preventable. We need to continue to invest in preventive programs and change the norms about these crimes. We can empower victims to avoid abusive relationships and educate at a young age what healthy dating relationships look like.

10

Thoughts on people having guns? I respect everyone’s right to have a gun but we have to balance that with the danger of a gun being in the wrong hands.

11

Favorite thing to do as a kid? Horseback riding in the Irish countryside.

12

Your children’s names? Aoife is pronounced eh-eff-ay, and Tighe is pronounced tay-ugh. Both are fourth-century classic Irish names.

13

How did your parents feel about your career choice? My mother would watch Cops from her home in Ireland and freak out. I tried to convince her that Novato didn’t end up on shows like Cops , and that I was fine. m

Digi Tips

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Our Marin Magazine staff blogs are back and better than ever. Journalism gems that we just couldn’t fit into the print version are presented over seven categories. Out and About features not-to-miss Bay Area happenings; Marin Matters touches on more serious issues in the county; Travel Buzz, Fashion and Beauty, Food and Drink are all self-explanatory and packed with goodies; while AC34 From Marin is predominantly written by our own sailing correspondent, Stephanie Martin, who has almost unfettered access to the best news bits from the 34th America’s Cup. And finally Backstory is the place to find out what really happened behind the scenes during Marin Magazine interviews or photo shoots. This month — with a nod to our wedding features — check out Fashion and Beauty for highlights from our coverage. marinmagazine. com/blogs

Cold Weather Style

January in Marin usually means one thing: cold. Fortunately, thanks to offerings from local, fashion-minded purveyors, you can brave the elements with ease — and turn a few heads in the process.

CALIN VAN PARIS

CALL for ENTRIES

Attention Artists:

Enter the Seventh Annual Cover Art Contest.

Winners:

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

e xposure:

The winner will be featured on the cover of the May 2013 issue.

e nter no WA t: MA rinMA gA zine.co M /getcovered

Larry Meredith, Ph.D.

Marin’s Health and Human Services director oversees 700 employees, a $150 million budget and the county’s largest department. •

YOU CAN TAKE the boy out of Canada, the saying goes, but you can’t take Canada out of the boy.

Larry Meredith, who was raised in a farming community outside Toronto, is Canadian through and through, right down to the skates.

The 72-year-old director of Marin’s Health and Human Services department still laces them up and plays in two hockey leagues, one in Santa Rosa and one in Oakland. He recently lost his two front teeth in an encounter involving opposing players, hockey sticks, a wall and, quite possibly, the puck.

But the boy from Canada gets serious when discussing Marin’s Health and Human Services department, the county’s largest, with nearly 700 employees and an annual budget of $150 million. He’s relaxed and conversational talking about his life and work in his disarrayed o ce on North San Pedro Road across from the Marin County Civic Center in San R afael. Meredith’s path to Marin began after he earned a degree in business administration from the University of Western Ontario and later headed to the United States, where he earned both master’s and doctorate degrees in psychology from Penn State University. In the late 1960s, Meredith started working with the San Francisco Department of Public Health and was there 30 years before assuming the top spot in Marin’s health department on September 10, 2001.

Tragedies occurring the very next day, on September 11, would change both the world and Meredith, who was inspired to become an American citizen after the events unfolding post-9/11. Meredith and his wife, Nikki, a journalist, raised their children, a boy and a girl, in their home in Larkspur, where they have enjoyed living for more than 40 years.

What does Marin’s Department of Health and Human Services do? Our mission is to “promote and protect the health, wellbeing, self-su ciency and safety for all in Marin.” The state provides 37 percent of our budget, 30 percent comes from the federal

government and 33 percent comes from the county and other sources. With that money we administer federally mandated programs such as food stamps, general cash assistance and Medi-Cal. We also fund such services as foster care, adoptions, death and birth certification and the monitoring of nursing homes, and we have an In-Home Support Services program that serves about 1,600 individuals who want to live independently and avoid nursing homes. We’re also involved in psychiatric emergencies and suicide prevention as well as the mental health of children, seniors and the homeless. We protect the broader community from communicable diseases — TB, HIV/ AIDS, STDs and influenza — through various disease surveillance and control activities. Also, we provide a number of health-related services for inmates of our county jail and those being released from California prisons. Finally, we allocate $24 million to assist the homeless, largely through such nonprofits as Ritter Center, Homeward Bound and Buckelew Programs. In all, the needs are massive — and many of the things we do are not visible to the average citizen.

Is there a program, run by Marin’s HHS department, that is visible to county residents? Here’s one: Marin Employment Connection, or MEC. It’s a catalyst and a partner in Marin County’s economic growth and vitality. It serves both employer and employee through job training, job placement and workforce education. I tell people if you’re west of the Mississippi and unemployed, this is the place to go. MEC has connections with almost every business in Marin. It’s a very successful operation. MEC is located o Smith Ranch Road next to the Automobile Club’s building; they’re doing a terrific job. Another resource that’s easily available is healthymarin.org. It’s a one-stop source of information relating to the county’s overall health. Basically, it connects residents to information they may desire regarding health.

With 700 employees and a $150 million annual budget, isn’t Marin’s Health and Human Services department a bit big for a county of 260,000 residents? We probably now have slightly more resources than comparable counties. But before the economy had its serious

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downturn, we had about the same budget as other counties our size. A nd we laid o or gave early retirement to about 100 employees. But because of the county’s fiscal prudence — Marin may be socially liberal, but we’re fiscally conservative — we didn’t su er the assault on resources as, say, Contra Costa and Solano counties did. So is what we now provide a lot? To answer that, you’ve got to realize that there’s a tale of two Marins: One is a uent, and the other is where 30 percent of Marin households struggle to make ends meet. Here HHS works closely with Marin’s nonprofits and the Marin Community Foundation to provide some of life’s basic needs.

Isn’t Marin also blessed with a network of private nonprofits that assist with this segment of the county’s population? Absolutely. Marin is incredibly fortunate to have a rich array of private, nonprofit, community-based organizations. A n example would be Marin Community Clinics, which has three locations and its own board of directors. The Coastal Health A lliance in West Marin and the Marin City Health and Wellness Center are two more examples of private nonprofits that provide safety net services for Marin’s working and uninsured populations. According to a study done two years ago, Marin has more nonprofits per capita than any county in California. Often, it is hard to di erentiate between the services of a county program and those of a private nonprofit. A nd as long as it’s easy for the recipient to receive service, it really doesn’t matter where they get it.

With all the services available in Marin, both public and private nonprofit, why do we still have the occasional panhandler at stoplights and freeway off-ramps? The homeless issue has been a major phenomenon, particularly since the economic downturn. We simply have limited capacity for safe, clean and a ordable housing for those with limited means. Many of the folks who are homeless have lost their jobs and their housing. We’ve used some of our stimulus funds to house a lot of people and we’re continuing with that approach to address the homeless problem. It’s possible that some of the people panhandling may not be aware of the assistance available to them; others may find panhandling a lucrative

activity. I’m afraid you’ll always get the, like you said, occasional person panhandling on city streets and freeway o -ramps.

From your perspective, what are the county’s primary health and human services problems?

One serious concern is the use of alcohol and other drugs by our youth. They have the a uence to get what they want and they get it. However, we have a group that’s making real headway with this problem. The Novato Blue Ribbon Coalition for Youth involves more than 20 organizations positively influencing the well-being of Novato’s youth by helping them reduce their alcohol and marijuana use. They include the YMCA, youth groups, nonprofits and the city itself. They’re gaining momentum as a community-based social movement that’s changing the norms and getting people engaged. And homelessness is a county issue that’s most visible in downtown San Rafael. Here, working with Ritter Center, we developed a program called Housing First that gets those who have been homeless the longest into a stable environment that’s clean and safe for a reasonable amount of time. What we’re finding is that once people have food available on a regular basis and a place to sleep, much of the errant behavior melts away. Finally, service for seniors is also a countywide concern. We have people living up in the foothills who are aging and losing their independence. Many of them can’t drive and yet they need to get out to shop, socialize and be a part of the community. The nonprofit Whistlestop does an excellent job in this regard and now Village Marin, a new group, is providing help, so we’re making progress.

Is it accurate to say Marin is working from a variety of standpoints to solve its health and human services problems? Absolutely. Not only through our department’s remarkable sta , but also because of the cooperation that occurs between us, the county’s education department, sheri ’s department and the district attorney’s o ce and the many fine nonprofits. We have an almost seamless collaboration that addresses the many issues threatening the public’s health. In fact, based on a study done by the University of Wisconsin, Marin’s overall health has ranked first among California’s 58 counties for the past three years. m

sunshine let the in

A Mill Valley family finds that true happiness means enjoying the place and space you are in. •

Scott Kalmbach and his wife, Tjasa Owen, knew they wanted good public schools, plenty of sun and a familyoriented community when they moved from San Francisco to Mill Valley three-and-a-half years ago.

“We looked in Tiburon and Mill Valley, but we kept an open mind,” Owen recalls. “We always knew the house would speak to us, would find us.” The family found that perfect house in Mill Valley’s Sycamore Park neighborhood.

“This area had all of the things we were looking for and more,” says Kalmbach, a real estate agent with Pacific Union International. “And this property, in particular, had charm and warmth with large outdoor spaces in both front and back.”

For Owen, whose landscape paintings can be seen online, in 13 galleries on either coast, including her own on Union Street in San Francisco, and on the covers of Marin Magazine twice since 2005, the Sycamore Park lifestyle has been the biggest reward of the move. “We wanted to be in ‘the flats’ to be close to everything, including the highway for commuting, close enough to town to walk and close enough to the schools so the kids could bike there on their own,” she says.

That liberty was important to her. Her children “can leave a note that they’re at a friend’s house and I don’t worry. In the city, I had to monitor the kids all the time for safety.”

City life for the adults in the family was structured too. “Everything had to be planned in advance,” she notes. “Here, dinner parties or just getting together with other families is more spontaneous.”

Her husband agrees, and he prefers the topography in Sycamore Park compared to other places he looked. “It’s so flat here that it’s easy to get to know our neighbors because everyone’s on the street playing basketball or riding bikes. You don’t have that, living on a steep slope.”

And although they were open to any architectural style, they were determined to find a house that hadn’t been

recently remodeled. “We knew we wanted to remodel,” Owen explains. “It’s our nature not to buy a finished house because we like to put our own stamp on it.”

What they eventually found was a three-bedroom residence with a walk-in playhouse for the children and another 700-square-foot building that once served as the former owner’s design studio. The place has now been remodeled to accommodate a small studio for Owen, an office for Kalmbach, a new bathroom and a family room.

“There was something special about this house; it had a great vibe,” Owen says. “But we had a vision of how the house would serve our needs as a family.”

Kalmbach and Owen, who had previously renovated and then sold two Victorian homes in the Cow Hollow area of San Francisco, took their time fleshing out the design for this north-facing home. “That was key,” she says. “We moved in for a few months while we were in the planning stages. We saw how the spaces worked in the morning light, the afternoon light, and the evening light, and we changed certain things but also decided not to change things we originally thought we would.”

IT’S OUR NATURE NOT TO BUY A FINISHED HOUSE BECAUSE WE LIKE TO PUT OUR OWN STAMP ON IT.

IGN TI P: Top left to right: Maximize space with a kitchen island; use floor-to-ceiling storage and built-ins to create functional space.

DES IGN TI P: The unexpected use of sliding barn doors adds a surprising visual element and also helps save space.

They worked with their longtime friend Tineke Triggs, of Artistic Designs for Living in San Francisco, to achieve a contemporary rustic look for the home by bringing in reclaimed wood, dark bronze and warm tones. “Scott and I have our own style and we’re very verbal about our design decisions so it was like having three designers on the project,” Owen says. “The goal was to give the house an old-world, lived-in feel.”

Instead of choosing a colorful palette, as the couple had done in previous remodels, they settled on a neutral color scheme of whites, tans and beiges, accented with natural accents and artful objects. And by tearing down walls, moving some interior doors, and gutting the kitchen entirely, they imparted a lively openness without increasing the building’s original footprint.

“We loved the fact that the floor plan was a small threebedroom with one main space for the living and dining areas and kitchen,” Owen says about the 1,700-square-foot cottage built in 1942. “It meant that we’d have to constantly run into one another.”

In the foyer, they switched out the existing front door with a Dutch door — “it’s more welcoming,” Owen says — and in the great room, they defined the living room space with a pair of custom barn doors, each leading to a bedroom.

By doing that, they were able to eliminate a small hallway that they then reconfigured to give daughter Remy, 7, more space in her bedroom and also find space for a master bathroom. They made the master bedroom slightly smaller to incorporate his-and-her walk-in closets. In 10-year-old Finn’s step-down bedroom, they beefed up the overhead beams with a facing of recycled barn wood and added a built-in desk that overlooks the front garden.

The walls of the adjacent kitchen were torn down, bringing the space into the open, and they added new cabinetry, countertops and a convenient island and installed all new appliances including a G.E. refrigerator, Viking range and Brian hood.

Outside, they removed the existing rose garden but kept the small orchard of fig, quince, apple and peach trees and, using the design services of Outer Space Design and Gentry Landscaping, both of San Francisco, gave the landscape a contemporary aesthetic by adding feathered grasses, lavender and bamboo surrounded by concrete pavers. The garden is simple and relaxed with an expansive feel that lends itself easily to active children’s play.

From both a personal and professional perspective, Kalmbach recognizes that it’s hard to find everything on someone’s wish list all in one house. “If the aesthetics aren’t exactly to your liking,” he suggests, “you can do so much cosmetically in so many styles. Be open-minded and excited about finishing the space in your own personal way.”

He advises his friends from San Francisco to broaden their views, too. “A lot of people from the city feel they have to move downtown because they are so used to walking to everything, but I tell them to let go of that notion. Instead, focus on the neighborhood and community.”

As Owen notes, “we use this town well and we use Mount Tam well. Without a doubt,” she adds, “we thought we’d go to the city more, but we have learned to take advantage of what Mill Valley has to offer. And with Beerworks, the new Sweetwater and the city of Sausalito so close by, we find that our friends from San Francisco are excited to come over here.” m

Wartime Roots { }

“FIRST, DON’T CALL IT S YCAMORE PARK,” cautions Matt Cramer, a former board member of Sycamore Village N eighborhood Association, talking about the enclave of homes nestled between M iller and Blithedale avenues and C amino Alto in M ill Valley. “ I t’s officially Sycamore Village. I’ll have this chat with everyone who calls it Sycamore Park until my last day.”

He’s right. O fficially, Sycamore Park refers to a small neighborhood park that served as Marin’s first little league field; over the years it became the vicinity’s informal namesake.

T he neighborhood began to take shape in the early ’40s after an entrepreneurial developer named George Goheen purchased lots along lower S ycamore Avenue, an area that would soon be dubbed Goheen Gulch. A ccording to C ramer, Goheen leveled a hill, used the soil to fill in the nearby marsh and eventually built about 350 of M arin’s first spec homes here. He sold them for around $4,000 each.

Interviewed in 1979 by the M ill Valley Historical S ociety, Goheen said that both Bank of America, which offered to finance the development, and the War Production Board, which would oversee the project, encouraged him to build these homes as defense-worker housing during World War II

Goheen was rightfully proud of his sturdy, low-cost little houses, most of them two-bedroom, one-bathroom homes with a fireplace and a yard. D ue to the wartime need for metal, they had no heating systems or showerheads.

Realtor Chelsea E. Ialeggio, a D ecker Bullock Sotheby’s agent who lives in Sycamore Park, says there has been a big migration of young families from San Francisco to the area over the past few decades, when homes were selling for $100,000 to $150,000 (today homes in the area can sell for as much as $1 million).

“They’re looking for strong public schools, a beautiful setting and an easy commute,” she says. “Over time, these little homes get updated and added on to.”

Cramer agrees. “Historically, this neighborhood has always been about families,” he says. “People move here to put down roots. We embrace them and do our best to get everyone in the mix.”

Wine Country WEDDINGS

Four couples take advantage of the beauty of the north country. BY MI M I TOWLE

Yasmin Avash and Brian Shiller

Trentadue Winery, Geyserville, August 4, 2012

FOR BRIAN SHILLER, 2012 was an amazing year. He married the love of his life, Yasmin Avash, in an elegant wine country ceremony, and his favorite baseball team won the World Series. H is wedding was of course the highlight, but Yasmin, understanding his devotion, wove the San Francisco Giants victory into the vows, eliciting cheers from the audience. “We are opposites,” says Yasmin; “we call each other ‘the dog’ and ‘the cat’ — and I’m the cat.” If you ask how the couple met, their divergent personalities come to light. Yasmin’s account is full of detail: “We met at Savoy Tivoli in North Beach through our Sausalito-based shoe-designer friend, Cristina Nelson.” Brian simply says: “Through friends — at a bar.” E arly on in their relationship, Yasmin knew she would like to have Brian as a life partner after he showed his ability to provide for and take care of her when she was out of work. For him, it was upon returning from a long trip and seeing her again. “ I ’ve never been so happy to see anyone,” he recalls. Their wedding at Trentadue Winery paid homage to their shared love of golf. “O ur party favors and table names were all golf-related,” Yasmin says. “We love playing golf together, so we named the tables after golf courses and gave away personalized golf ball markers and tees.” Her father, A hmad, who has been playing with the Tuesday Skins Club at Peacock Gap for decades, undoubtedly had something to do with her love of the game. The wine country was the ideal venue for locals as well as for out-of-town guests from El Salvador, Kansas and Mexico. The couple also appreciated the setting’s beauty and the management’s willingness to accommodate such special requests as Persian food on the menu and bringing in a mariachi band. The event had countless highs, Brian says, but entering the reception hand-in-hand with his wife was a favorite: “Walking in and hearing ‘Mr. and Mrs. Brian Shiller.’ I was finally able to relax and take in the moment.”

VENUE Trentadue Winery, trentaduewinery.com

PASTOR Rev. Steve Schibsted, Bidwell Presbyterian Church, bidwellpres.org

PHOTOGRA P HER Jennifer Michaelson, agirlandacameraphotography.com

CATERING Famous Kabob, famouskabob.com

FLOWERS Family and friends

DJ AMS Entertainment, amsdj.intuitwebsites.com

MARIACHI BAND Mariachi Colima, mariachicolima.com

VI D EOGRA P HER Mao Winesberry, 415.225.6000

DRESS Amsale Gown, Glamour Closet, glamourcloset.com

G ROO M’S S UIT Selix Formalwear, selix.com

INV ITATIONS Impresos Realce, impresosrealce.com

BRIDESMAID DRESSES Coren Moore, bellabridesmaid.com

DAY-O F COOR D INATOR Misa Phutsangdee, missgotogirl.com

WEB SITE Wedding Jojo, yasminandbrian.com

Erin Miwa and Michalaggelos “Michael” Panas

Cornerstone, Sonoma, August 30, 2012

ERIN MIWA GREW up in Marin and enjoys running her family business, the popular eatery Comforts in San Anselmo. She met her husband, Michael Panas, a native of Athens, Greece, while studying abroad at University of York in England. Both were working on master’s degrees, she in international development and he in finance and economics. During a post-graduation trip to Paris, Michael surprised Erin with a midnight proposal moments after the lights on the Ei el Tower came on. Fast-forward to the wedding day, when Michael surprised Erin again, this time with a romantic speech that became one of the highlights of the day. She didn’t know he had prepared anything. “I thought he would just run o a list of thank-yous,” she said, “He overwhelmed me with his sentimentality, thoughtfulness and emotion. And it lasted almost 10 minutes.” Her only regret was not having a videographer. “I didn’t realize how much of the evening I had lost,” she says. “Pictures capture some moments, but the video clips from friends and family members who took footage with their phones or cameras were the most fun to watch. I wish I had more.” The couple agrees that Cornerstone Sonoma was the ideal reception venue. “The space is so unique and at every corner there seems to be another picture-perfect setting,” says Erin. “We hired a DJ and he was great, playing the perfect variety for all ages. Plus, he was able to pronounce Michael’s name right.”

The space is so unique and at every corner there seems to be another picture-perfect setting.

CEREMONY Nativity of Christ Church, nativityofchrist.org

PRIEST Rev. Luke Palumbis

RECEP TION Cornerstone Sonoma, cornerstonesonoma.com

PHOTOGRA P HER Sasha Gulish, weddingsbysashagulish.com

CATERING Sage Catering, sage-catering.com

FLOWERS Main St. Floragardens, mainstfloragardens.com

MUSIC DJ Mark Haggerty, Denon & Doyle, djay.com

DRESS Romona Kaveza, bridalgalleria.com

GROOM’S S UIT Hugo Boss, nordstrom.com

I NVITATIONS Designed by bride, letterpressed by PS Paper, pspaper.com

W EBSITE miwapanas.ourwedding.com

Veronica Sooley and Matthew Pugh

Paradise Ridge Winery, Santa Rosa, September 7, 2012

IF YOU HAVE been in a shopping mall in the past year, you’ve heard the sassy lyrics by pop sensation Carly Rae Jepsen: “ Hey I just met you, and this is crazy, but here’s my number, so call me, maybe?” San Francisco graphic artist Veronica Sooley expressed almost these exact words during a chance encounter with her future husband, Matt Pugh, at a holiday party on December 27, 2008. By the first of the year, she’d told her best friend that he was “the one.” With mutual friends and a meeting of the parents already under their belt, the two grew closer and eventually moved into a Nob H ill apartment together — which is where the story advances. A fter serving Veronica breakfast in bed on her birthday, Matt got down on one knee to ask the big question. A fter she said yes, the two agreed that the wine country up north near Veronica’s parents was the best place to tie the knot. They settled on Paradise Ridge Winery and started making plans. “Matt and I love wine country, so the winery theme that carried throughout the wedding was very representative of us,” says Veronica, who found much of her design inspiration for the event on Pinterest. “It was a very collaborative, DI Y wedding — my dad made the centerpieces, my aunt helped with the table arrangements and the arbor, my uncle performed the ceremony, my maid of honor and cousin helped me work on crafts for days before the wedding, and my mom and I did pretty much everything else.” Seeing Veronica for the first time in her dress, the heartfelt and funny speeches, the visiting with loved ones and the first dance as husband and wife were moments that stood out for Matt. “People say it’s the best day of your life,” he reflects. “A nd I always thought it was just something people said to be polite. But it really was the best day of my life. I wouldn’t change a thing.”

VENUE Paradise Ridge Winery, prwinery.com

PHOTOGRAPHER Elizabeth Hurley Photography, bethhurley.com

CATERING Park Avenue Catering, parkavecater.com CU PC AKES Sift, siftcupcakes.com CAKE Joanna Lavenberg, SF Baked Love, sfbakedlove.com BOUQUETS/BOUTONNIERES Stems Floral Design,

The first glimpse of his bride took Doug’s breath away.

Ashley Holmstrand and Doug Carr

Anvil Vineyard and Ranch, Annapolis, September 8, 2012

WHEN A FEW of the members of the Sonoma State University soccer team moved in downstairs from Ashley Holmstrand and her roommates during her junior year, she thought she had won the jackpot, and if “the most amazing husband ever and best friend” is considered a grand prize, she did. However, she was almost too busy to let a romance bloom into an engagement. After repeatedly trying to get her to drop a work shift and go out of town for the weekend, Doug Carr ended up taking a moment on New Year’s morning 2011, while Ashley was twirling around the kitchen, to surprise her on bended knee with a ring in his hand. She loved it — the ring and the moment. Considering their alma mater and Doug’s passion for wine, having a wine country wedding was at the top of their list. The venue they chose, Anvil Vineyard and Ranch, is a 13,000-acre property with a lake, vineyard and three houses that can sleep up to 38 people. Anvil also met their planning needs; the venue allowed outside vendors, it had a beautiful outdoor setting, and there were no time constraints — so they could dance all night. “Patrick, the property manager, was amazing,” Ashley says. “It didn’t matter what odd request we had; Patrick had a solution for everything.” Highlights of the night for both included Ashley walking down the aisle; the first glimpse of his bride took Doug’s breath away, and Ashley especially cherished being escorted by her brother Tom. “I would not do anything di erently,” says the groom. “The day was perfect.”

VENUE Anvil Vineyard and Ranch, anvilvineyardandranch.com

REVEREND Rev. Doug Rhoads (brother of the bride)

PHOTOGRAPHY Mike Phongsa, MP Photography, mpphoto.org

CATERING Jennifer Lopez Catering and Events

FLOWERS Carlie Factor

MUSIC Runaway DJ Services, runawaydj.com

BRIDESMAID DRESSES J.Crew, jcrew.com

GROOM’S SUIT Jim’s Formal Wear, jimsformalwear.com

INVITATIONS Paper Source, paper-source.com

WEBSITE holmstrandandcarr.ourwedding.com

THE AVERAGE ENGAGEMENT in the United States is 16 months, and that’s supposed to provide enough time (if you’re lucky) to tackle everything on an ultimate to-do checklist and come up with almost $30,000 — what the average couple spends on nuptials, according to the website theknot.com.

Just think: during that year-plus interlude, spouses-to-be will decide everything from the right typography for the wedding invites (to sans serif or not to sans serif?) to post-bash favors (homemade or store-bought fudge?) to reception decor (rustic-chic or just chic?).

E ven couples who eschew the over-the-top traditional wedding with an endless guest list in favor of an easy-breezy backyard event (à la Facebook founder M ark Zuckerberg and Priscilla Chan) still have basic details like food, drink and dress to consider.

Talk to a bride deep in wedding planning and you’re likely to hear words and phrases like “overwhelmed,” “so much to do” and “so expensive.” But with a little extra planning and a firm course of action, orchestrating what is supposed to be the happiest party of your life can actually be fun. Our one-year itinerary should point you toward success. For our complete 2013 wedding resource guide please visit marinmagazine.com/weddings.

12 MONTHSBEFORE

DECI D E ON A BUD GET. Whether your parents are contributing, your 401(k) is a source or you’ve been saving up since you were a child, setting a spending cap early will help with many other wedding decisions like the location and the guest count.

H IRE A P LANNER (OR NOT). If you’re going to enlist a wedding coordinator, you might as well do it at the start of the entire planning process and really get your money’s worth. Otherwise, if you’re committing a total DIY event, embrace it and ask friends and family early on for commitments to help.

RES ERVE THE DATE. T he first question most vendors will ask is, “What date are you getting married?” which will determine if they have an opening. If you aren’t set on a specific day, consider nontraditional options like a midweek date for potential big savings on a venue or a weekend date that’s not in the high season (June to September). For example, the site fee for a weekend in June can run approximately $10,000 at a luxe location like Sonoma’s Cornerstone Gardens, but reserving that same place in June midweek can bring the price down to as low as $3,000.

BOOK A DJ. Popular wedding bands and DJs can book up to a year in advance, so securing wedding entertainment is one of the first things you’ll need to do once you’re engaged.

BOOK AN OFFICIANT. For peak wedding months like June through September, says Larry Wilkerson of Novato’s Heartfelt Weddings, who along with his wife, Kathy, has conducted more than 900 ceremonies, the earlier the better. O ciants can only perform one wedding per day, and prime slots like a summer Saturday book fast.

10 MONTHS

6 MONTHS

HIRE T H E P H OTOGRAP H ER AND VIDEOGRAP H ER. For photos, that’s ideally “about eight hours during a typical wedding to capture (everything from) the bride getting ready down to the end of the reception, so like most photographers I can only do one wedding a day,” says Mill Valley–based Meghan Roberts, who photographed about 15 local weddings last year (see her work in this section).

SECURE YOUR INVITE S. Choosing an online site like minted.com allows a bit more time to order, but to create that personal touch (and learn the virtues of linen paper versus pearlescent), give yourself six months to choose a design and have any custom artwork done. Calligraphy services should also be booked at this time; check out artists’ portfolios on sites like etsy.com.

O RDER T H E CAKE. Take a tip from Martha Stewart and pick a cake with a design that matches your wedding’s aesthetic. A formal affair calls for structured and multitiered cake; cupcakes or even doughnuts are perfectly appropriate for less formal events.

B OOK YOUR H ONEYMOON . Reserve your hotel and purchase flights at least six months out to get just the room you want — think honeymoon suite.

5 MONTHS

D ECIDE ON T H E DRE SS . “With custom dresses you want to allow enough time for all the fittings,” says popular Marin wedding dress designer Amy Kuschel. “The fittings will continue up until the week before the wedding,” she adds.

BOOK TH E RE H EAR SAL DINNER VENUE. Ask the maximum capacity and make sure your guest list doesn’t exceed it, warns Bay Area wedding planner Alison Hotchkiss, whose company Alison Events has planned more than 400 weddings. “Also don’t forget a backup plan for rain or inclement weather.”

4 MONTHS

HIRE YOUR FLORIST. “I’ve been booked from more than a year in advance to as short as two weeks before a wedding, but four months is really ideal and will give you just the right time to choose in-season and local flowers,” says Apple Daoruang, owner of San Anselmo’s Local Flora.

CH OO S E A CATERER. “Before you sign the contract, find out how long the caterer has been in business and check the reviews on sites like Yelp and wedding sites like theknot.com,” says Marin’s Stan Vail, owner of All Seasons Catering. “You’ll want to finalize the menu about three months before the wedding date as you do the walkthrough of the venue with the caterer.”

R ING TIME. If your wedding bands are going to be custom, give the designer enough time to create and complete them. For one-of-a-kind rings the process starts with a meeting between you and the designer. “I then create a sketch and wax carving for approval. We spend the next months collaborating and communicating, ensuring that we are creating exactly what people want,” says jewelry designer and Larkspur resident Ashley Berman of Ashley Morgan Designs, whose pieces are sold at San Francisco’s Gump’s and San Anselmo’s Blanc.

TWO MONTHS

SEND OUT INVITE S. Don’t even think of guessing on postage. Take your invitations to the post o ce to be weighed and make sure you have the right number of stamps. If you’re using specialized designs like those created on sites like zazzle.com, allow an extra two weeks for design and delivery.

WEDDING MONTH

C ONFIRM GUE S T COUNT. Vendors such as your caterer and even your photographer will need to know not only how many guests but also who the VIPs are and where they will be sitting.

G ET YOUR MARRIAGE LICENSE. In Marin County, the couple must appear together at the county clerk’s o ce with valid photo identification. It only takes 20 to 30 minutes to issue the marriage license, but be sure to take into account the 4 p.m. o ce closing. If either partner was married before, the couple will need to know the date the previous marriage ended. If either party was divorced within the last six months, a copy of the final judgment is required. The marriage license is e ective the day it is issued — mazel tov!

P LAN THE HONEYMOON WARDRO B E. “The location and time of year for the honeymoon will determine how far in advance the bride should decide what to buy and pack for the trip,” says M Clothing owner Marty Murphy. “For example, summer resort wear begins to arrive at the boutiques in January. You can find items for a spring or summer honeymoon months beforehand. Likewise, if you plan a fall or winter honeymoon at the beginning of the year, you can enjoy finding great winter sale items that spring that will be perfect for your getaway.”

WEDDING WEEK

SET A SIDE FINAL PAYMENTS AND TIPS FOR VENDOR S. Martha Stewart, once again, comes through: the doyenne of decorum recommends $200 to $600 for the caterer in tips, $75 to $100 for the o ciant and $50 to $100 for the wedding coordinator.

O RDER LUNCH. “So many brides forget about lunch for the day of the wedding, and you don’t want to wait to eat until dinnertime,” Hotchkiss of Alison Events says.

BOOK A S PA TREATMENT. ’Nu said.

The Wedding Planner

Glenda Queen and Terry Brumbaugh have been in the jewelry business so long they’re now creating wedding bands for the children of couples whose rings they made decades ago. With 40 years in the trade, their shop, with its big Dutch doors and friendly staff, is welcoming and unpretentious, and their collections fresh, contemporary, creative and fun. Each case bursts with jellybean colors – yellow diamonds, orange sapphires, pistachio-green pearls and other exotic gems, set in rose, yellow and white gold and, especially, in platinum. Glenda and Terry have an affection for combining simple, unfussy shapes and unusual materials to create fine jewelry that goes as well with Levi’s as it does with black tie. The shop also carries collections by designers from around the world.

gLenda QUeen and Terry BrUMBaU g h

1909 Union Street

San Francisco, CA

415.776.8048

unionstreetgoldsmith.com

When shopping at Union Street Goldsmith, you’ll be tantalized by a large selection of both engagement rings and wedding bands for both men and women. The friendly staff, including six graduate gemologists are here to help educate you in buying the right diamond or colored stone for your needs. Most diamonds come with GIA or AGS Certificates.

Custom work is a specialty they offer and the design staff is there to listen to your needs and guide you through the process

Stephan-Hill

So Many Way S To Say i Love y oU

Diamonds are chosen for many different occasions, a diamond engagement ring, an anniversary ring, diamond earrings or exquisite diamond pendants. Not only do they capture the moment, but there is always a story bound to them. Begin your own history with a diamond from the collections at Stephan-Hill or create your very own custom design.

1226 Fourth Street • San Rafael, CA 415.459.5808 • stephanhill.com

Kate’s Blossoms

Marin, Sono M a, n aPa, San franci S co

Custom floral design services for weddings and receptions, grand and small. Complementing the couple’s dreams, wishes, and family traditions is the hallmark of Kate’s work. A centrally located design studio, and experience designing events in this region, gives Kate the distinct ability to help coordinate your wedding flowers, and styling details, so you may fully enjoy your memorable day.

415.408.3862 • kathleen@katesblossoms.com bloomisphere.com • katesblossoms.com

Schooner EROS

510.232.4282 • grace@schoonereros.com schoonereros.com a UniQUe Wedding venUe

Envision beginning your lives together with your wedding aboard the Schooner EROS! We offer a magical setting for your most special day, and a memory for your whole lives. EROS is a classic beauty, built as a wedding gift by a happy groom. Romance still abounds aboard; your vows given under clouds of white sails surrounded by the beautiful panorama of the San Francisco Bay.

Cavallo Point Lodge

incoMParaBLe Wedd ingS in an icon ic LocaT ion

601 Murray Circle Fort Baker, Sausalito, CA 888.651.2003 | 415.339.4709 weddings@cavallopoint.com cavallopoint.com

one of California’s most romantic locations, Cavallo Point marries breathtaking beauty in a historic setting with understated luxury, inviting wedding spaces, outstanding food and wine, and gracious accommodations. The award-winning lodge is ideal for incomparable weddings that are classic, elegant and timeless. Located in national parklands at the Golden Gate Bridge, the scenic setting is a natural backdrop for a venue that is sophisticated and serene, historic and contemporary.

Cavallo Point provides a single source for extraordinary weddings. Indoors, the lodge accommodates 10-180 people in adaptable venues, including the historic chapel. Outdoor spaces for 20-250 provide unparalleled bridge, city and bay views. Unique venues, like the Cooking School, are perfect for bridesmaids’ lunches, rehearsal dinners and receptions. Wedding menus, inspired by Chef Justin Everett’s acclaimed cuisine, feature seasonal ingredients from local providers. The stellar wine list enhances the festivities. Professional catering and planning support ensure a flawless event. Wedding packages make planning easy.

For overnight guests, the lodge offers 142 Historic and Contemporary rooms and suites. Green and sustainable, the inviting accommodations feature luxury amenities. Most have cozy fireplaces or stunning views. The world-class spa nurtures with soothing treatments and heated outdoor meditation pool. Dining options include award-winning Murray Circle, Farley Bar and the Tea Bar. Activities include yoga, hiking, biking and more.

a wedding like no other, in a location like no other. 2013 Award, Best of Weddings, The Knot

Alix & Company

e ng a ge M enT a nd Wedding r ingS

Classic, Romantic, odern, intage. At her gallery and workshop in downtown Mill Valley, jewelry designer Janet Ali uses recycled gold, platinum, and ethical gemstones to design custom rings from the simple to the sophisticated. High ceilings with slow-moving fans, old wooden floors and beautiful display cases make this romantic showroom a delightful place to find the ring of your dreams.

55 hrockmorton Avenue • ill alley, CA 415.380.0880 • ali andcompan y.com

StoneTree Golf Club

Me M orieS are BoUnTifUL

Set the mood for your wedding – formal or intimate, traditional or contemporary, large or small at StoneTree Golf Club. Panoramic views of Mt. Tamalpais and the Coastal Range make you and your guests feel they are part of a grand celebration.

Exchange your wedding vows on the stunning Sunset Terrace. Dine and dance in the elegant banquet room that may accommodate up to 300 guests. Plan your unforgettable day at StoneTree Golf Club, the preferred choice for weddings in Marin County. StoneTree’s worldclass catering and events team will work to ensure your wedding memories will last a lifetime.

9 Stone.ree ane • o vato, CA

415.209.6296 • stonetreegolf.com

Scott Howard Events

Saying “i do” iS ea Sy

55 Tamal Vista Blvd.

Corte Madera, CA

Victoria Campbell, Director of Catering 707.812.4509

victoria@scotthowardevents.com

one cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well. ~ Virginia Wolff

Scott Howard Events is a full service catering and events company centrally located in Marin, California with coast-to-coast services beyond the Bay Area.

Our thoughtful team will help you coordinate your special day from the minute you say, “I Do.” Sophisticated and luxurious venues to intimate in-home receptions - menu to décor - our professional and friendly team provides kid-glove attention and our creativity is unmatched.

Led by award-winning chef, Scott Howard and creative director, Victoria Campbell, our professional services include • enue and vent Development

• enu lanning

• Site Selection

• vent Coordination

• ar Services

• and more!

Our goal is to create your moment, weaving together the spirit of your celebration with fresh ingredients and an inspired menu. The moment is yours to enjoy.

Johann Paul Jewelers

f or aLL y oUr J eWeLr y needS

Johann Paul Jeweler’s Philosopy is to provide unsurpassed customer service, value and quality. They also pride themselves in being a full Bridal Boutique. They offer classic and innovative wedding and engagement designs such as Yael (pictured), Elliott Chandler, Martin Flyer, Scholdt Designs, and of course Hearts on Fire, The Most Perfectly Cut Diamond in the World TM

272 on Air Shopping Ctr • r eenbrae, CA 415.461.1866 • johannpauljeweler.com

Bardessono

TrUe coMMi T Men T

Bardessono goes beyond simple luxury to offer an elegant and environmentally friendly destination for your special day. Surrounded by the natural graces of the Napa Valley, our intimate venues, secluded courtyards with tranquil water gardens, and private spa-suites invite you to indulge.

Seasonal, on-site culinary gardens provide the inspiration for all our field-to-fork cuisine, and our executive chef, Victor Scargle of Lucy Restaurant customizes each dish to your personal desires.

Celebrate the beginning of your new life together enveloped by the harmony of stunning beauty and serenity – a reflection of your commitment to one another.

6526 ount Street • ountville, CA

707.204.6025 • bardessono.com

Marin Country Club, tucked away in a majestic canyon of Northern California, has been defining brides’ dreams for decades. The Tuscan-style clubhouse, allinclusive wedding collections, and championship caliber 18-hole golf course provide a myriad of options that truly allow the bride and groom to define their own experience. Sunny weather with picturesque landscape provide an exquisite venue for brides and grooms to exchange their vows.

eXPeri enc e yoUr dr eaM

500 Country Club Drive

Novato, CA

415.382.6714

marincountryclub.com

Wedding ceremonies and receptions of up to 300 are held in the prestigious clubhouse surrounded by lush olive trees and fragrant lavender. Once you step through the front doors you feel as though you have been whisked away to romantic Tuscany. Serene lighting and architecture lend itself to your rich experience. Each bride and groom work closely with our Executive Chef and Catering Director to create a culinary experience that surpasses even the highest expectations. Marin Country Club ensures no detail of your dream wedding is left unfulfilled. ‘Photo: Jack Hecker Photography’

Dominican University

Wedding S and S P ecia Le ven TS

Have the wedding of your dreams on the stunning campus of Dominican University of California. Set among beautifully landscaped grounds, majestic trees and classic buildings, the campus is the perfect romantic backdrop for your fairy tale wedding. Our experienced catering team, professional staff and unique venues that can accommodate up to 300 people, will make your wedding dreams come true.

emo@dominican.edu

415.485.3228 • dominican.edu

Sofia Jewelry

The Perfec T Marriage of Love & S TyLe

Masters of custom jewelry design, we can create anything your heart desires, from romantic engagement rings to elegant formal wear accessories. Or choose a unique design from our extensive collection of handmade artisan jewelry. We are family run, here in Mill Valley for 18 years.

Our loyal customers tell a better story than we do, so here are two from Yelp:

“My fiancé had my engagement and wedding rings custom designed by Carl Priolo. It was a wonderful experience and the rings came out wonderfully, because the experience was so good and the products so beautiful. I purchased my wedding earrings from Sofia Jewelry as well and Carl designed a beautiful pendent to go with them. Every experience I have had with this store has been positive, they carry beautiful jewelry and the custom work they do is superb. They are truly artists.

“The most beautiful jewelry in Marin.”

Come visit us and see for yourself!

80 hrockmorton Ave • ill alley, CA

415.388.8776 • sofiajewelry.com

JumpstartMD

Your Love will last a Lifetime… Shouldn’t your weight loss?

JumpstartMD is the Bay Area’s largest medical practice dedicated to weight management, and the program most recommended by Bay Area doctors… not to mention a deadline-driven bride’s best friend! So don’t fret over that first fitting – we’ll get you looking and feeling your best in time for the big day. Founded in 2007 by Stanford-trained physicians, JumpstartMD has transformed the lives of over 10,000 men and women with clinical results up to 4 times better than other programs and popular diets.

TranSforMing Weigh T LoSS

350 Bon Air Center, Suite 240 Greenbrae, CA

855.586.7783

JumpstartMD.com

Using a science-based, practical approach, the company’s team of medical, nutrition, fitness and psychology experts works individually with each patient to design their comprehensive “Meals, Movement & Mindset” transformation program. The program emphasizes fresh, real foods so patients lose weight in the same way they’ll learn to keep it off. Private weekly visits provide the caring, motivational accountability structure that fosters the gradual lifestyle changes essential for sustainable results.

If you’re planning a wedding now, it’s the perfect time to Jumpstart your weight loss. The average patient loses 2-5 pounds per week without feeling hungry! Plus, JumpstartMD offers special bridal packages to help you reach your goal weight and stay there. Use promo code MarinMagWed to secure special pricing for brides and their bridal parties. Details at www. JumpstartMD.com or by calling 1-855-JUMPSTART. JumpstartMD has nine convenient Bay Area locations, with the newest office conveniently opened in the Bon Air Center!

San Rafael Joe’s

helping to create MeM ories

The most cherished memories are those shared among family and friends. Let us help you create those memories. From “the engagement” to bridal showers to the rehearsal dinner, to The Big Day. From a small intimate group, to a larger event of up to 150, let our family help you bring your dreams together.

415.456.2425 • srjoes.com 931 Fourth Street • San Rafael, CA

Spinnaker Restaurant

weddings - rehearsals - special events

The Spinnaker banquet facility is located on the water in historic Sausalito. The banquet room and its outdoor deck boast scenic views of the San Francisco Bay, Angel Island, Belvedere and Sausalito waterfront. The room can accommodate up to 160 people for a seated or buffet meal with dance floor, DJ/band and bar setup. Our banquet staff would be happy to work with you to plan a unique and memorable event.

100 Spinnaker Drive • Sausalito, CA

415.332.1572 • thespinnaker.com

The Overcommitments

Make your celebration the event of the year!

Bringing you the best of soul, Motown, funk and danceable classic rock since 2008, put on your dancing shoes for the energetic, good-time sounds of the OC’s! Available for weddings and private parties. See the OC’s live at Rancho Nicasio, April 27.

415.847.8754 • overcommtiments@yahoo.com theovercommitments.com

Lang Antiques

BeaUTifUL vinTage Je W eLS S ince 1969

When you buy an engagement ring at Lang Antiques you receive more than a ring. Our expert staff will provide the best customer service possible while assisting you in the selection of a vintage ring as unique as your love. We have the largest selection of high quality true vintage engagement rings that you will find anywhere.

323 Sutter Street • San Francisco, CA 415.982.2213 • langanti ues .com

Harbor Point

BeaUTifUL WaTerfronT LocaLe W iTh deLicioUS c UiSine

Harbor Point is an elegant location whose waterfront setting on Strawberry Point is in perfect harmony with the delectable cuisine of its restaurant, Nourish. The glass-and-wood venue sits at the edge of a lagoon in a quiet corner of the bay, where sea birds from a nearby preserve loll offshore.

The main room is intimate and relaxed, yet spacious, with open-beamed architecture and floor-to-ceiling windows. There is an expansive bay view panorama; if you prefer your viewing outside, slip onto one of the decks surrounding the building. For those chilly evenings, two large fireplaces are available to warm your guests.

Nourish’s culinary team will customize your menus, from California cuisine to American classic. Plus, their in-house Event Coordinator will help plan the details of your celebration, while working within budget, whether a wedding and/or reception, or other events such as anniversaries, birthdays, bar and bat mitzvahs, memorials…

by Dmitry Fisher

475 Strawberry Drive • ill alley, CA 415.381.4400 • eatatnourish.com

Destinations

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

unexplored side of the Friendly Isle.

BY MATT HEW R ICHARD POO LE

WELL, YOU’RE GOING to pee a lot, and you might feel a bit foggy for a few days,” warned chef Craig King, the master cleanse guru at L umeria, a new yoga and meditation retreat perched on the cool, lush slopes of Maui’s Upcountry. He had just handed me a large mason jar filled with a tar-colored liquid that contained a small garden’s worth of liquefied vegetables — one of the three daily jars of “juices” that constitute the Lumeria Glow Cleanse.

Um, yeah. Not your typical Maui vacation. But having lived in Maui for years and returning often to visit friends, I didn’t want a typical vacation — I wanted to explore a side to the island that few knew, bowels be damned. And a few nights at Lumeria seemed like a good place to start.

Lumeria: Maui’s Hidden Isle of Enlightenment

Award-winning architect and philanthropist Xorin Balbes has poured a significant amount of his time, talent and money into creating Maui’s first wellness retreat, a sort of E salen in paradise. It is a gorgeous property, meticulously landscaped with exotic flowers, plants and trees (many of them edible) and a small museum’s worth of neocolonial furnishings and Asian objets d’art. It’s the kind of place you visit for a night and end up staying in for a week (which, according to Balbes, happens quite often).

Lumeria’s focus is yoga and meditation, but this being Maui, stand-up paddleboarding lessons are available as well through Maui paddleboarding pundit Suzie Cooney (suzie trainsmaui.com). If you just want some beach time, Lumeria’s not your cup of herbal tea. But if it’s time to give your brain, body and soul some much-needed rest and rejuvenation, why not meditate in Maui? lumeriamaui.com

Paia Inn: Hard to Find, Hard to Leave

When the cruise ships disgorge their

passengers onto the crowded main street of Lahaina, it’s time to head to the tiny plantation town of Paia on Maui’s North Shore and book a room at the Paia Inn, one of my favorite new finds that’s hard to find — it’s well hidden behind a storefront. That the inn’s owner, Michael Baskin, only hires svelte young models as sta (and how he sold that idea to his wife, Sarah, I’m too afraid to ask) is superfluous; as the scion of a successful hotelier, Baskin exudes a passion for hospitality that has all his guests feeling like extended family.

As soon as I walked into my Paia Inn suite I knew I’d made a mistake — two nights wasn’t nearly long enough to bask in the homey luxury of my new second home. Picture yourself lounging on a pillow-filled chaise on your private screened-in porch while cool ocean breezes carry the fragrance of plumeria trees and the aroma of pecan pancakes from the inn’s outdoor cafe. Stroll through the nearby shops and galleries in town, relax on the adjacent beach, borrow the inn’s boogie boards or snorkel gear, watch a movie on your 60-inch flat-screen TV — it’s easy to see why the Paia Inn has an 80 percent return rate and attracts celebrities seeking hip seclusion. paiainn.com

The Old Wailuku Inn: R&R at Maui’s Historic B&B “Welcome to Maui, Matthew! I’m Tom. I have to go to the hardware store to pick something up, but go ahead and make yourself at home. I’ll be back in a bit.” As a travel writer I’ve reviewed dozens of B&Bs, and it takes a certain type of person to run one properly — a people person. Native islanders Tom and Janice Fairbanks, owners of the Old Wailuku Inn at Ulupono, are exactly the right type: funny, generous, trusting and ambassadors of ho’okipa, the hospitality of complete giving.

That their dedication survived the painstaking restoration of their 1924 “Queen of Wailuku homes” is a testament to the couple’s a able nature and enthusiasm for running one of the top-ranked B&Bs in the U.S. The decor is a pleasant amalgamation of 1920s Hawaii and modern convenience (e.g., private baths in all rooms). It’s everything the megaresorts of Kaanapali and Wailea aren’t, and the most a ordable second home you could ask for in Maui. mauiinn.com

MORE PASSION IN PARADISE, WITH YOUR 5TH NIGHT FREE. The only resort destination on Oahu’s Fabled North Shore immerses guests in authentically inspired luxury, and will soon welcome a new era of honoring island culture.

Eat ~ Drink ~ Be Married

VEGAN WINE? “Waiter, there’s an animal by-product in my chardonnay.”

Many wineries use egg whites as a fining (purifying) agent to guarantee the clarity of a wine, and while that doesn’t affect taste or stay in the product, most vegans steer clear. A handful of wineries such as Domaine Carneros in Napa, however, use vegan-friendly clay to clarify their wines. “Because our vineyard is already organically certified, we decided the next step was to make our wines vegan as well,” says founding winemaker Eileen Crane. domaine carneros.com MIMI TOWL E

Ready, Set, Go

While your neighbors are detoxing and riding their bikes in the New Year, zoom up to Ram’s Gate Winery for the “Speed, Sips & Stogies” package. The winery has partnered with the Audi Sportscar Experience just across the street at the Sonoma Raceway. With a choice of the R8 One-Day or S-Model Plus One-Day program, participants get a behind-the-wheel chance to discover what these performance models can do in ideal conditions, under the supervision of top professional racing drivers. After time on the track, repair to the Library at Ram’s Gate for food-and-wine tasting and access to a coveted humidor featuring a vast array of premium cigars typically reserved for members. The cost: $1,545 for the S-Model; $2,045 for the R8. ramsgatewinery.com M .T.

The One

A new year calls for a new glass. The One, created by master sommelier Andrea Robinson, debuted at Auberge du Soleil in 2012. According to Robinson’s research, the One — actually there are two designs, one for red wine and one for white — brings out the best elements of red and white varietals respectively, eliminating any need for multiple glasses. andreawine.com/the-one M.T.

WOMEN AND WINE

There is nothing like a woman’s touch. To celebrate that point, Insalata’s in San Anselmo will be adding a little feminine energy to 2013 with a monthly Women Winemakers Calendar Girls event at the restaurant. Kicking o the series is Susie Selby of Selby Winery in January, followed by Sarah Quider of Ferrari-Carano in February and Krisi Raymond of Five Vintners in March. Chef Heidi Krahling will create a three-course meal for the occasions, paired with wine from each winemaker, $29. insalatas.com M.T.

Yoga Getaways

Thinking of combining vacation with a bit of restoration? Consider these popular yoga retreats in 2013. T urn to page 74 for more inspiration on the topic and an enlightening take on the yoga-as-vacation craze. SOPH I E SHUL MAN

Vinyasa Yoga Retreat with Kathryn Budig, Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, Hawaii, February 19–24. fourseasons.com

Wanderlust O‘ahu Turtle Bay Resort, North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii, February 28–March 3. wanderlustfestival.com

Dream Yoga Vacation, Pranamar Villas, Costa R ica, March 3–10. yogatoesstudio.com

Four Day Yoga Intensive, M ount M adonna, Watsonville, California, M arch 6–10. mountmadonna.org

Mexico Teacher Training with Janet Stone Tulum, M exico, April 4–14. janetstoneyoga.com

Sivananda Ashram: Yoga for Peak Performance in Sports and Life, Paradise Island, N assau, Bahamas, May 8–12. sivanandabahamas.org

Yoga for Writers: Bali Immersion with Mark M orford, Bali, Indonesia, June 6–19. markmorfordyoga.com

Downward Facing Margaritas

Yoga vacations, the new American tradition?

BY M ARK M ORFORD

DON’T KID YOURSELF, kiddo. Serious yogis don’t do premium tequila tastings. Serious yogis don’t get Brazilian waxes and mani-pedis after a candlelight vinyasa class by the pool with a mai tai, a copy of Vanity Fair and an over-pampered sigh.

This “yoga vacation” thing? T he increasingly popular, shamelessly Westernized trend of traipsing o to a high-end spa/resort somewhere in Mexico, or Belize, or Hawaii, or Spain or any of a hundred other beach-kissed abodes where they pamper the living daylights out of you and your bank account with all the premium, first-world, would-you-like-amassage-with-that-pinot-noir accoutrements you can handle?

And then oh-by-the-way, they frame it all with some mildly vigorous yoga and upbeat philosophy to help you burn o a few of the artisan bourbon cupcakes you shared in the hot tub at sunset?

Try not to be shocked when I tell you this. But that’s not technically a yoga retreat. S orry.

It’s OK . I’m guessing you already knew. What’s more, you probably don’t really care. And you know what? Neither do I. Hell, I’m all for the half-wonderful, half-ridiculous new trend of yoga-as-vacation.

T his much I’ve learned in my 12-plus years teaching yoga classes and leading workshops and retreats: It just doesn’t matter that much. Why? Because there’s room for everything. Because variety is the spice

of utkatasana. Because capitalism almost always trumps asceticism.

And because grumbling about the West’s brazen addiction to appropriating traditional Eastern spiritual practices is like bitching about teenage girls with breast implants. This is America, baby. This is what we do

But above all — let’s just be honest — there are far worse things than replacing the lazy gluttony of a “normal” American vacation with some nourishing yogic perspective and clear-eyed discipline. Don’t you think?

So then, with all these options, which do you choose? In the past five years alone, there’s been an explosion of these hybrid vacations, from a long weekender at Esalen or maybe Kripalu to hone the chakras to dashing

o to India for two weeks of temple-hopping and not drinking the water.

In between is the ever-popular Bali, in which the lush island of Ubud alone is home to no fewer than half a dozen fine ’n’ fertile centers catering to a decidedly Western Eat, Pray, Love demographic.

As you probably guessed, my preferred retreats are the ones that take the yoga slightly more seriously than the wine pairings. But your mileage, and your intention, will vary.

If you’re considering one of these vacations, here’s my suggestion: Choose your retreat based on three crucial criteria: teacher, practice level and locale. In that order.

The retreat leader sets the tone and atmosphere far more than the country or the cuisine does. Find someone who inspires you, whose practice and energy you feel connected with. Already have a favorite teacher? You’re halfway there.

Second, matching a retreat’s yoga style to your true ability and fitness level will make everyone happier. Most retreats simplify the asana (physical) portion of the vacation to the mellower basics, so anyone but the most absolute of beginners can attend with ease. You say you’re an advanced yogi looking for something more serious and challenging? Wrong article. Move along, grasshopper.

Locale is least important, because nearly all getaways in this newfound category are fairly swank and luscious and you can’t really choose poorly. Italy or Mexico? Hawaii or France? Costa Rica or Argentina? I mean, please. Personally, I base my choices on teachers I admire and have practiced with, most from the Bay Area. As such, Janet Stone’s retreats will rock the soul of your world. Local yoga deity Rusty Wells is as adored a teacher as they come. And funny/funky Les Leventhal is all over the map — literally — o ering retreats from Bali to Hawaii.

Seeking a slightly more serious, karmabased practice? You might like a Sivananda retreat in either the Bahamas or Kerala, India. Or maybe a week at Watsonville’s much-loved Mount Madonna.

Got cash to burn? Elena Brower’s wildly expensive getaway to Parrot Cay looks, um, sorta nice. Amanda and Nick (MC Yogi) Giacometti of Point Reyes’ Yoga Toes will

charm your socks o in Costa Rica. Then there’s yoga legend David Swenson, who sometimes does his master Ashtanga thing at the Four Seasons in Maui. I mean, seriously? How could that possibly suck?

That said, I’d avoid teachers who are all flu and dazzle, who gleefully reference how many times they’ve been praised in yoga magazines or how many celebrities they’ve taught. Also, unless there’s a Sanskrit scholar or guru involved, any mention of Tantra is almost always just marketing bullshit. Trust me.

Then again, I’m certainly not immune to self-promotion. Hell, if I weren’t so humble, I’d tell you to come with me to Bali in June 2013, for 10 days of yoga/writing workshop/cultural

exploration like no other. But I’m far too modest to say that (markmorfordyoga.com). Ahem. I know! And this is just a tiny sample. Shameless and divine choices abound. Ain’t yoga amazing? Ain’t that America? m

Mark Morford is an E RYT500 teacher at Yoga Tree in San Francisco, an award-winning columnist for SFGate/ San Francisco Chronicle, and the author of The Daring Spectacle: Adventures in Deviant Journalism. Track him down at facebook.com/ markmorfordyes or email mm@markmorfordyoga.com.

Thank You

Platinum Sponsors

Marin Ballet Board of Trustees

Gold Sponsors

To the generous Nutcracker Sponsors whose contributions ensure that Marin Ballet’s legacy of performance is enjoyed year after year.

Bank of Marin, Bellam Self Storage & Boxes, Catch Restaurant

Silver Sponsor

Bank of the West, Carol & Kevin Louie, Mar-Chet Jewelers, Nutcracker Act I Party Scene Parents, R.A.B. Motors, Nonie Greene & Todd Werby,

Bronze Sponsors

Active Care Sports Dance Rehab, Artifex Software, Inc., Gail & Jack Bernstein, Richard Clements, Farallone Paciÿ c Insurance Services, Maia L. McGehee & Paul H. Gusciora, Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics, Huang Iboshi Architecture, Inc, Marie Veronique Organics, Meyenberg Goat Milk Products, OSIsoft, LLC, ° erese Lawless & Jim Sturdevant, Vanguard Cleaning Systems of the North Bay, Westamerica Bank

Celebrating Fifty Years

Out & About

CALENDAR / O N THE SCENE / DINE

Calendar

MUSIC

JAN 19 KC TURNER PRESE NTS

Promoter KC Turner brings the music of Emily Elbert and Adam Levy to Marin at this special house concert. Email Turner at kc@kcturnermusic.com to purchase tickets and discover the location (San Rafael). kcturnermusic.com

THEATER

THRU JAN 13 The Lion King The popular classic returns, featuring a score by Elton John and Tim Rice. Orpheum Theatre (SF). 888.746.1799, shnsf.com

JAN 4–FEB 3

Troublemaker, or The Freakin Kick-A

Adventures of Bradley Boatright A story set in working-class Rhode Island about a group of boys and their nemesis. Roda Theatre (Berkeley). 510.647.2749, berkeleyrep.org

JAN 5, 12 Let Your Hair Down, R apunzel Children’s Theatre Association of San Francisco’s performance of the classic fairy tale. Fort Mason (SF). 415.248.2677, ctasf.org

JAN 8 Anything Goes A musical comedy about lovers, liars and clowns on a transatlantic

cruise. Curran Theatre (SF). 888.746.1799, shnsf.com

JAN 11 –FEB 9 R isk Is This … The Cutting Ball N ew Experimental Plays Festival A series of plays that push the boundaries of theater. Cutting Ball Theater (SF). 415.525.1205, cuttingball.com

JAN 17–FEB 10 4000

M iles A comic drama about a young man and his grandmother. American Conservatory Theater (SF). 415.749.2228, act-sf.org

JAN 17–FEB 17 Pack of

Lies A tale about espionage during the Cold War, based on a true story. The Barn Theatre (Ross). 415.456.9555, rossvalleyplayers.com

JAN 23 Wicked

The untold story of the witches of Oz. Orpheum Theatre (SF). 888.746.1799, shnsf.com

JAN 23 Se Llama

Cristina A play about a young couple who wake up in a strange room and don’t know who they are. Fort Mason (SF). 415.441.8822, magictheatre.org

JAN 24 –FEB 17 Waiting for Godot Marin Theatre Company’s take on the 20thcentury classic. Marin Theatre Company (Mill Valley). 415.388.5208, marintheatre.org

JAN 26 –FEB 17 The Wild Bride A dark fairy tale for adults. Roda Theatre (Berkeley). 510.647.2949, berkeleyrep.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

JAN 12 Love2Dance: Stars of the Stage A highlight of the studio’s most popular dances from the past 10 years. Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.473.6800, marincenter.org

JAN 29 –FEB 3 Suite en Blanc A world premiere by Wayne McGregor and the San Francisco Ballet. War Memorial Opera House (SF). 415.865.2000, s allet.org

COM EDY

TU ESDAYS Mark Pitta and Friends The comic hosts an evening for up-and-comers and established headliners to work on new material. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.9600, 142throckmorton theatre.com

JAN 1 Big Fat Year End Kiss Off Comedy Show Local comedians perform stand-up comedy and sketches about the major news stories of 2012. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.388.9600, 142throckmorton theatre.com

MUSIC

TUESDAYS Swing Fever

The band pays tribute to jazz artists and composers with selections from its roster of more than 1,000 tunes, every first and third Tuesday. Panama Hotel (San Rafael). 415.457.3993, panamahotel.com

JAN 11 Keane The alternative rock band from England takes the stage. The Warfield (SF). 415.345.0900, goldenvoice.com

JAN 13 Sexy S unday A musicians’ showcase featuring female artists who rock. Peri’s Silver Dollar (Fairfax). 415.459.9910, krickie.com

JAN 13 Arrival From Sweden: The M usic of A BBA The ABBA tribute band performs the group’s most popular songs. Yoshi’s (SF). 415.655.5600, yoshis.com

JAN 13 Lady Gaga The pop queen comes to San Jose. HP Pavilion (San Jose). 408.287.7070, hppavilion.com

JAN 17 Dee Bell

The '80s jazz singer performs songs from her albums. Seahorse (Sausalito). 415.331.2899, sausalitoseahorse.com

JAN 19 In The Name of Love A musical tribute honoring Martin Luther King Jr. and featuring Grammy Award winner Jennifer Holliday. Paramount Theater (Oakland). 510.287.8880, livingjazz.org

JAN 20 Romantic Passions Marin Symphony’s 60th season continues with Bay Area native Nigel Armstrong’s take on Bruch’s First Violin Concerto. Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.473.6800, marincenter.org

JANUARY 29

MEDIA MADNESS: EMPOWERING A CULTURAL SHIFT

Jennifer Siebel Newsom | Writer, director and producer of the inspiring documentary “Miss Representation.” Founder and CEO of MissRepresentation.org and of Girls Club Entertainment.

Linda Burch | Co-founder and Chief Education and Strategy Officer of Common Sense Media, the nation’s leading nonpartisan organization dedicated to improving the media lives of kids and families.

MARCH 19

JOURNEY OF HOPE:

A STORY OF COURAGE, LOVE AND DETERMINATION

Laura Ling | American journalist, host and reporter for E! Investigates. Ling received worldwide attention when she was imprisoned in North Korea for 140 days before being granted a pardon facilitated by President Bill Clinton and her sister Lisa Ling, enabling her return to the U.S.

APRIL 30

ADAPTING TO AN INCREASINGLY COMPLEX WORLD

Rebecca Costa | Sociobiologist, futurist, thought-leader, nationally syndicated radio host and author of “The Watchman’s Rattle: Thinking Our Way Out of Extinction” who will provide compelling insight and encouraging solutions to the global gridlock of our day.

Fabulous evenings, dynamic speakers, delicious food and wine tastings in the company of remarkable women at each event...

6:30 - 9:00pm - appetizers, dessert, wine tasting, book signings and more at the Mill Valley Community Center

Advance purchase required - space is limited!

Just Added! Two screenings of Jennifer Newsom's film Miss Representation 100% of the proceeds benefit our local schools

JANUARY 9, 2013 • YES! FOUNDATION BENEFIT SCREENING

Drake High School Little Theatre, 1327 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo

JANUARY 16, 2013 • KIDDO! FOUNDATION BENEFIT SCREENING

Mill Valley Middle School Gym, 425 Sycamore Avenue, Mill Valley 7:30-9:00pm (doors open at 7:15pm)

JAN 23 Historic Opening N ight Concert

Featuring a star-filled lineup hosted by Bill Cosby celebrating the opening of the first stand-alone building for jazz in America. SFJAZZ Center (SF). 866.920.5299, s azz.org

JAN 25 Bach’s St. John Passion American

Bach Soloists’ first performance of the year, featuring periodinstrument players and a choir. St. Stephen’s Church (Belvedere). 415.621.7900, americanbach.org

JAN 25 Tim Flannery

The third-base coach for the San Francisco Giants shows o his musical talent. Sweetwater

Music Hall (Mill Valley). 415.388.3850, sweetwatermusic hall.com

JAN 26 Music for Families with the San Francisco Symphony A kid-friendly classical concert designed for families. Davies Symphony Hall (SF). 415.864.6000, sfsymphony.org

JAN 27 Men of Worth Authentic Celtic music from Scotland and Ireland. Showcase Theater (San Rafael). 415.473.6800, marincenter.org

JAN 27 The R ussian Chamber Orchestra Concert Music director Alexander Vereshagin conducts the orchestra. Mt. Tamalpais United

Methodist Church (Mill Valley). 415.664.1760, russianchamberorch.org

JAN 28 M USE The English rock band performs. Oracle Arena (Oakland). goldenvoice.com

JAN 31 Cool M usicClear Water A performance of Debussy, Young Lee, Jen Wang and more by the Left Coast Chamber Ensemble. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.9600, 142throckmorton theatre.com

JAN 31 Ben Folds Five The alternative rock trio is back in San Francisco. The Warfield (SF). goldenvoice.com

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 Art on the Farm A fundraising exhibit for Marin Organic’s farm field studies program featuring art inspired by local farms, through January 17. 1337 Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.451.8119, artworksdowntown.org

JAN 13 Folding Into a Tempest A show by sculptural costume artist Sha Sha Higby featuring handcrafted materials, textures, puppetry, dance and props. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.9600, 142throckmortontheatre.com

Bubble Street Featuring genres of fantastic art, imaginary realism, neo-Victorian and steampunk. 565 Bridgeway, Sausalito. 415.339.0506

Falkirk Cultural Center

Work by BayWood artists, a group dedicated to painting and preserving Marin’s natural landscape, January 18– March 9. 1408 Mission Ave, San Rafael. 415.485.3436, falkirkculturalcenter.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

About Larkspur Paintings by Bryn Craig, through March 5. 483 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur. 415.945.9454, bergelli.com

Gallery Route One

Out of the Blue Annual juried show, January 11–February 3. 11101 Hwy One, Point Reyes Station. 415.663.1347, galleryrouteone.org

Marin Society of A rtists Passages New works. 3501 Civic Center Dr, San Rafael. 415.454.9561, marinsocietyofartists.org

M ona Lease Gallery

A preview of 2013 gallery artists. 39 Greenbrae Boardwalk, Greenbrae. 415.461.3718, monalease.net

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JAN 25 –26 Bebe Miller: A History Join dancer and choreographer Bebe Miller for an art and show. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts (SF). 415.978.2787, ybca.org

O’Hanlon Center for the A rts Members’ Show A mixed-media exhibition. 616 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.388.4331, ohanloncenter.org

Robert Allen Fine A rt Seasonal Landscapes

A group exhibition of works on canvas and paper. 301 Caledonia St, Sausalito. 415.331.2800, robertallenfineart.com

Robert Green Fine

A rts American Masters Group exhibition by gallery painters

Sam Francis, John Grillo, Paul Jenkins and Gustavo Rivera,

through February. 154 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.381.8776, rgfinearts.com

Room Art Gallery White

A juried show in celebration of the holidays, through January 4. 86 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.747.8139, roomartgallery.com

Smith A ndersen N orth Art by Mark Citret, through January 12. 20 Greenfield Ave, San Anselmo. 415.455.9733, smithandersen north.com

Studio 333 Ongoing exhibition featuring more than 40 Bay Area artists’ work in di erent mediums.

333A Caledonia St, Sausalito. 415.331.8272, studio333.info

Studio 4 A rt Work by local artists; classes and workshops with materials included. 1133 Grant Ave, Novato. 415.596.5546, studio4art.net

SAN FRANCISCO

A rtHaus California Impressions A group exhibition featuring works by Carolyn Meyer, Matthew Frederick, Daniel Berman, Brian Blood and Deborah Brown.

411 Brannan St, 415.977.0223, arthaus-sf.com

Berggruen Gallery

Photography by Taryn Simon. 228 Grant Ave, 415.781.4629, berggruen.com

Caldwell Snyder Art by Rusty Wolfe. 341 Sutter St, 415.392.2299, caldwellsnyder.com

Gregory Lind Gallery

Paintings of modern architecture by Eamon O’Kane. 49 Geary St, 415.296.9661, gregorylindgallery.com

M eyerovich Gallery

Color and Texture Relief on paper by Helen Frankenthaler, through March 7. 251 Post St, Suite 400, 415.421.7171, meyerovich.com

Rena Bransten Gallery

Hung Liu: Happy and Gay Paintings by Hung Liu, through January 12. 77 Geary St, 415.982.3292, rena branstengallery.com

MUSEUMS

M ARIN

Bolinas M useum A Delicate Imbalance

Featuring the work of Carl Dern (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

The Restylane family of products includes Restylane� , Restylane-L®, Perlane� , and Perlane-L®. These products can be used to add volume and fullness to the skin to correct moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, such as the lines from your nose to the corners of your mouth (nasolabial folds). Restylane may also be used for lip enhancement in patients over 21 years. Ask your doctor which is right for you.

Call e Laser Center at 415-945-9314 to schedule a free consultation.

Laser Center of Marin Medical Group, Inc. Dr. Karron Power 770 Tamalpais Drive Suite 301 Corte Madera, CA 94925 www.marianlaser.com 415-945-9314 Buy one 1 mL syringe of Restylane-L or Perlane-L and get each additional syringe for $100 OFF.

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may inject into a blood vessel, which can damage the skin. Although rare, red or swollen small bumps may occur. If you have had facial cold sores before, an injection can cause an outbreak. To avoid bruising and bleeding, you should not use the products if you have recently used drugs that thin your blood or prevent clotting. Products should not be used during pregnancy, when breastfeeding, or in patients under 18 years for nasolabial folds.

Treatment volume should be limited to 6.0 mL in wrinkles and folds, such as nasolabial folds, and limited to 1.5 mL per lip (Restylane only), as greater amounts significantly increase moderate and severe injection site reactions. The safety or effectiveness of treatment in areas other than nasolabial folds and lips (Restylane only) has not been established in controlled clinical studies.

The Restylane family of products is available only through a licensed practitioner. Complete product and safety information is available at www.RestylaneUSA.com.

Marin Museum of the A merican I ndian E xplore Native American history, languages, art and traditions ( Novato). 415.897.4064, marinindian.com

Marin Museum of Contemporary A rt Actuality, Reminiscence, and Fabrication New photography by Deborah Sullivan, through January 12 (Novato). 415.506.0137, marinmoca.org

BAY AREA

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, conserv atoryo owers.org

Contemporary Jewish M useum The Radical Camera: New York’s Photo League, 1936–1951 An exhibit exploring the New York Photo L eague’s history, artistic significance and culture, through January 21 (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 Gifts from the Gods: Art and the Olympic Ideal Featuring ancient Greek and Roman coinage, sculptures, antiques and textiles reflecting the 2012 Summer Olympic Games, through January 27 (SF). 415.750.3600, legiono onor.org

Museum of the African Diaspora Desert Jewels North African jewelry and photography from the Xavier GuerrandHermes C ollection,

JAN 13 Jon Nakamatsu

The award-winning pianist performs for the Mill Valley Chamber Music Society. Mt. Tamalpais United Methodist Church (Mill Valley). 415.381.4453, chambermusicmillvalley.org

through January 21 (SF). 415.358.7200, moadsf.org

Oakland Museum of California Playing with Fire: Artists of the California Studio Glass Movement Featuring 32 works showcasing pioneer California glass artists (Oakland). 510.318.8400, museumca.org

SFMOMA South Africa in Apartheid and After

An illumination of a contested period in the recent history of South Africa from the perspectives of three photographers: David Goldblatt, Ernest Cole and Billy Monk (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 A pril 14 (SF). 415.345.6800, waltdisney.org

EVENTS

JAN 5 Bay Area Brew Fest Showcasing dozens of breweries, hundreds of beers, food trucks, and more. Fort Mason (SF). bayareabrew festival.com

JAN 10 –13 Silicon Valley I nternational Auto Show A display of 2013 models. McEnery C onvention Center (San Jose). 415.277.5277, motortrendauto shows.com

JAN 11 Drumline

Featuring classic Motown music, energetic drum ri s and colorful costumes. Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.473.6800, marincenter.org

JAN 12 Youth Winter Bird Count Join scientists to collect data about di erent types of birds as part of WildCare’s Family Adventures program. Pickleweed C ommunity Center (San Rafael) 415.453.1000, wildcarebayarea.org

JAN 12–13 Bay Area Guitar Show Meet artists, dealers, collectors and buyers and see exhibits of old, rare, celebrityowned new and used guitars, amps and more. Exhibit Hall (San Rafael). 918.288.2222, texasguitarshows.com

JAN 16 M odernism

Art and Design Fair Featuring work from galleries including John Berggruen Gallery, Fraenkel Gallery and Anthony Meier Fine Arts. Fort Mason (SF). 415.345.7500, fortmason.org

JAN 17 Middle Eastern Poetry Poet, editor and writer Deema K. Shehabi reads her work. Falkirk Cultural Center (San Rafael). marinpoetrycenter.org

JAN 18 –19 The Edwardian Ball and World’s Faire Celebrate Edwardian period fashion with music, dancing, games and more, in honor of the author/illustrator Edward Gorey. The Regency Ballroom (SF). 415.673.5716, edwardianball.com

JAN 19 Bay Area Environmental Education Fair

More than 100 exhibitors and workshops on the latest in classroom materials, environmental education programs, wildlife education and more. Exhibit Hall (San Rafael). 415.473.6800, marincenter.org

JAN 19–20 Winter Wineland Meet winemakers and taste limited production wines at private wineries. Various locations (Sonoma County). 800.723.6336, wineroad.com

JAN 20 San Francisco Wedding Fair Bay A rea brides-to-be can find all the resources they need to plan the perfect wedding at this Bridal Network event. Four Seasons Hotel (SF). 510.499.0881, sfweddingfair.com

JAN 24 San Francisco Ballet Opening Night

Gala A cocktail reception and dinner at S.F. city hall, followed by a performance in the Opera House. City Hall (SF). 415.861.5600, s allet.org

JAN 25 –27 Gem Faire

NATURE WALKS & TALKS

ON GO IN G The San Francisco Gourmet Chocolate Tour A threehour walking tour from the San Francisco waterfront to Union Square with seven stops and generous tastings at each. Justin Herman Plaza (SF). gourmetwalks.com

ON GO IN G Foodie Adventures E xperience the Mission District, North Beach or Chinatown on a culinary walking tour. Various locations (SF). 888.498.2008, foodieadventures.com

ON GO IN G Mark Twain Walking Tour of Napa and Sonoma Local actor George Webber morphs into Mark Twain as he brings alive the pasts of the historic towns. 707.694.5097, georgewebber.com

ON GO IN G Sausalito Walking Tours Take a one-hour walk through Old Town and learn about its history. Vina del Mar Plaza (Sausalito). 415.331.3791, travelswithteri.com

More than 70 dealers from all over the world displaying gems, jewelry, beads, minerals and more. Exhibit Hall (San Rafael). 415.473.6800, marincenter.org

JAN 26 Loving

Spoonfuls An all-ages event featuring a chance to cast a vote for the best soup, best dessert and best appetizer in Marin. C ommunity Center (Mill Valley). 415.459.5999, cipmarin.org

JAN 7 Robert Gates Marin Speaker Series continues with the adviser to eight U.S. presidents. Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.473.6800, marincenter.org

JAN 7 Trauma and First Responders Psychologist Joel Fay gives an inside view into the culture of police, fire and emergency medical services. C ommonwealth Club (SF). 415.597.6700, commonwealthclub.org

JAN 16 Marin Scuba Club Underwater photographer Amos Nachoum discusses his latest big animal adventures. Flatiron Saloon (San Rafael). marinscuba.org

JAN 16 Zadie Smith and Dave Eggers The authors discuss their previous and upcoming work. Herbst Theatre (SF). 415.392.4000, cityarts.net

JAN 29 Media M adness: Empowering a Cultural Shift Jennifer Siebel Newsom and Linda Burch discuss negative media portrayals. C ommunity Center (Mill Valley). 415.888.2329, speaktomeevents.com

JAN 30 The Future of SFMOMA Director Neal Benezra and principal architect Craig D ykers discuss details of the museum’s $555 million expansion. Jewish C ommunity C enter (SF). 415.292.1233, jccsf.org

BLUESTONE MAIN

LE GARAGE French Escape the touristy Sausalito spots and grab brunch right on the water. The atmosphere is animated with light French music (think Amélie). The Kobe Burger, though not as Parisian as the other menu items, is very popular. Opt for indoor or outdoor seating. 85 Liberty Ship Way, 415.332.5625, legaragebistrosausalito.com

CORTE MADERA

BOCA PIZZERIA Italian

Good luck getting a seat at this new indooroutdoor family-friendly pizzeria in the Village at Corte Madera. Owners Shah Bahreyni and Sam Ramadan’s 142seat eatery features Neapolitan-style pizza

topped with imported San Marzano tomatoes and fresh house-made mozzarella. Other menu items, made with local ingredients, include roasted leg of lamb salad, beet salad, grilled eggplant sandwich and portabello and porchini mushroom ravioli. 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 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 award-winning 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

P.F. CHANG’S CHINA

BISTRO

Chinese The combination of attentive sta , lively atmosphere and consistently delicious meals makes for a reliably nice dining experience. Favorites like the lettuce wraps, Mongolian beef and gluten-free choices keep the customers loyal. 301 Corte Madera Town Ctr, 415.413.9890, pfchangs.com

RICK’S WINE CELLAR

California This oneroom bar and wine shop is owned and operated by Marin natives Rick and Candy Mendell. You can order by the glass, flight or bottle, all of which pair nicely with the cheeses, salami and hot paninis. 207 Corte Madera Ave, 415.927.9466, rickswinecellar.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 floorto-ceiling 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, deerparksteakhousegrill.com

GREENBRAE

BISTRO VIS À VIS

California This Bon Air Shopping Center eatery features the cooking of Michelin-star-rated chef Mike Fredsall. 282 Bon air Ctr, 415.925.4370, bistrovisavis.com

JASON’S California The menu includes seafood dishes with an Asian and Italian flair. Try the ceviche, crab cakes or blackened salmon; seating options include a covered outdoor patio. 300 Drakes Landing Rd, 415.925.0808, jasonsrestaurant.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. 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

MARIN BREWING CO

American Grab a cold beer made right on site and pair it with fish and chips — fresh cod dipped in Mt. Tam pale ale batter, served with steak fries and homemade tartar sauce. 1809 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.461.4677, marinbrewing.com

PICCO California This has been a popular place ever since opening in 2005. Dishes like miniburgers and seasonally driven menu items,

along with risotto made every half hour, have kept people coming back. The Picco Pizzeria and Wine Bar next door is cozy but already famous for its woodfired pizzas, great wine selection and soft-serve Straus Family Creamery ice cream. 320 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.0300, restaurantpicco.com

RUSTIC BAKERY

California Organic mouthwatering pastries, breads and sandwiches are on the menu here, including Meyer lemon mascarpone danishes and a bacon, avocado and heirloom tomato sandwich with mesclun. 1139 Magnolia Ave, 415.925.1556, rusticbakery.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

YANKEE PIER American

This family-friendly casual clam shack is harbored in a quaint house built in 1924 as a private residence. Though known for beer-battered fish ’n’ chips, clam chowder and tasty salads, Yankee Pier serves fresh seafood delivered daily. 286 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.7676, yankeepier.com

MILL VALLEY

AVATAR’S PUNJABI

BURRITOS Indian A small and friendly place with only a few tables but myriad Indian-inspired dishes Cash only, 15 Madrona St, 415.381.8293, enjoyavatars.com

BEERWORKS BREWERY AND BEER

CAFE American With a beverage menu of handcrafted beers made on site, imported and local microbrews and house-made kombucha and root beer, this Mill Valley brewery is set to keep the local palate pleased. Don’t miss the small beer hall selection of pretzels, salumis and cheeses. 173 Throckmorton Ave, 415.888.8218, millvalleybeerworks.com

BOO KOO Asian The menu o ers something for every eater — vegan, gluten-free, vegetarian, carnivore. Menu items include chicken pho,

vegan summer rolls, pad thai and five-spice pork satay — all made with organic, locally produced veggies and proteins from vegetarian-fed, sustainably raised sources. 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

BUNGALOW 44

American Much like sister restaurant Buckeye Roadhouse, Bungalow 44 o ers a mean dose of homey carbo- and lipid-laden dishes, such as the burger, fried chicken and tru e fries, as well as a few lighter items. The bar is a neighborhood favorite, known for tasty spirits and eye candy. 44 E. Blithedale Ave, 415.381.2500, bungalow44.com

CHAMPAGNE

BAKERY French Enjoy a croque-monsieur alfresco, linger over a flaky, buttery croissant with a cappuccino, or pick up

THE COUNTER California/ American The folks at the Counter have taken the “have it your way” motto to a new level. Mostly known for allnatural Angus beef, turkey, chicken or veggie burgers, the restaurant also offers 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

chocolate-dipped strawberries for your dinner party. 41 Throckmorton Ave, 415.380.0410, millvalley.champagne bakery.com

DIPSEA CAFE Comfort

This longtime breakfast spot has been serving up tasty pancakes and egg dishes with homemade biscuits since 1986. 200 Shoreline Hwy, 415.381.0298, dipseacafe.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 happy hour starts at 4:30. 152 Shoreline Hwy, 415.289.5777, frantoio.com

INDIA PALACE Indian

Known as “that great restaurant in the Travelodge,” India Palace is a favorite among the takeout crowd; however, eating on site is a treat too.

707 Redwood Hwy, 415.388.3350, india palacemillvalley.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; 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; this oldschool 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

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 East Blithedale Ave, 415.381.6010, pearlsdeluxe.com

PIAZZA D’ANGELO

Italian It’s always a party at this long-standing hot spot. A great place to meet up with friends for a fresh plate of pasta, zuppa di pesce or pollo novello, or make some new friends at the bar. 22 Miller Ave, 415.388.2000, piazzadangelo.com

EXPERIENCE

Vasco’s Simply Delicious Pesto

A touch of cream adds a velvety texture to this classic.

After nearly three decades of restaurant work in San Francisco, Paul Lazzareschi took over the reputedly jinxed location at Throckmorton and Bernard near his home in Mill Valley and opened Vasco in 1998. Still going strong, this popular neighborhood spot named after Lazzareschi’s father (also a San Francisco restaurateur, with spots like New Pisa) has proven that delicious Italian food, like his popular pesto tortellini, can turn the tide for any so-called doomed locale.

This simple pesto recipe, a standard at Vasco for years, works well in sandwiches and salad dressings as well as pasta dishes. The freshness of the basil and the quality of the olive oil are what distinguish a pesto, Lazzareschi says: “People oftentimes use too much garlic, which seems to be an American-Italian tradition. In Northern Italy garlic is used but typically not in large quantity and it’s almost never visible.” Not all Parmesans are alike, he adds: Some cheap pregrated cheeses can ruin a pesto. MIMI TOWLE

Tortellini Pesto Crème

YIELDS SIX SERVINGS

I ngredients

fresh organic basil, about 2 cups

¾ cup extra-virgin olive oil

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic

¼ cup pine nuts (optional) salt and pepper

D irections

Put all ingredients into a food processor and blend until smooth. Place four or five heaping tablespoons of the fresh pesto into a sauté pan and sauté for a couple of minutes. Add a splash of heavy cream; it will soften the pesto, blend the flavors and create a velvety texture. Sauté for another minute, add the pasta of your choice and plate. Garnish with a touch of fresh grated Parmesan and a few basil leaves.

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

ROBATA GRILL AND

SUSHI Japanese Robata translates as “by the fireside”; fittingly, food here can be cooked on an open fire and served in appetizer-size portions to pass around the table. Or simply order your own sushi or entrée from the menu. 591 Redwood Hwy, 415.381.8400, robatagrill.com

SWEETWATER MUSIC

HALL CAFE American

Located at the entrance of Sweetwater Music Hall, the cafe is a small oasis of calm dedicated to the F.L.O.S.S. philosophy: Fresh, Local, Organic, Seasonal and Sustainable. O ering breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. 19 Corte Madera Ave, 415.388.3850, sweet watermusichall.com

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

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 Edgar DeLon. 7416 Redwood Hwy, 415.878.0314, chiantinovato.com

HILLTOP 1892 California

Situated in 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

JENNIE LOW’S CHINESE CUISINE

Chinese Traditional dishes including Cantonese, Mandarin, Szechuan and Hunan delicacies. If you don’t see your favorite, let the restaurant know; whenever possible, they’re happy to try and prepare dishes not on the menu. Located in the Vintage Oaks shopping center. 120 Vintage Way 415.892.8838, jennielow.com

MUSCIO’S Italian

Inspired by the tradition of family dinners, Muscio’s is a new restaurant serving traditional Italian food. Meals include Mom’s Fettuccine with Prawns (gluten-free rigatoni available), My Sister’s Minestrone Soup and Pesto Chicken Pizza. The kid’s 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. Try traditional favorites like heirloom tomato and zucchini Panini and minestrone. Open for Sunday brunch. 5800 Nave Dr, 415.883.6686, tavolaitaliankitchen.com

TOAST American

Sister to the popular Mill Valley location, Toast Novato features outdoor dining and architecture by Stanley Saitowitz as well as great dishes by executive chef Michael Garcia. 5800 Nave Dr, 415.382.1144, toastnovato.com

TUSCANY COUNTRY

GRILL Italian The chicken pesto panini and eggplant parmigiano are among the favorites at this spacious Italian eatery. The menu is eclectic, prices are fair and the portions are enormous, so be prepared for leftovers throughout the week. There’s a bit of a rush at lunch, so make reservations or arrive early. 1516 Grant Ave, 415.898.2800, tuscany-countrygrill.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

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120 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.457.7700, insalatas.com

L’APPART RESTO

French It’s the second Marin restaurant for the team behind Le Garage Bistro in Sausalito. Owners Bruno Denis and Olivier Souvestre are o ering a menu most Francophiles would be proud of, complete with items like smoked herring, bone marrow and cassoulet de legumes. 636 San Anselmo Ave, 415.256.9884, lappartresto.com

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 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

SAN RAFAEL

AMICI’S EAST COAST

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

CREPEVINE American Bistro/Creperie Casual dining, outdoor seating and a diverse menu of savory crepes (such as the Italian crepe filled with roasted peppers, eggplant, onions, artichoke hearts, tomato sauce and mozzarella). Sweet and savory crepes are available all day long, as is breakfast. 908 Fourth St, 415.257.8822, crepevine.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

LOTUS RESTAURANT

Indian Lotus Restaurant has earned Hall of Fame kudos from Pacific Sun readers for nearly a decade. Family owned and operated, it serves up North Indian cuisine with vegan and vegetarian options in a casual pink-tablecloth setting. 704 Fourth St, 415.456.5808, lotusrestaurant.com

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

(tomato sauce, light mozzarella, roasted diced beets, caramelized onion, goat cheese, bacon, sausage and basil) and Patty’s Hot Mama (includes jalapeño ranch sauce and cauliflower). 812 Fourth St, 415.457.2337, pizzaorgasmica.com

SAN RAFAEL JOE’S

Italian Guido and Theresa Farina run this Marin institution, which has been famous for sophisticated yet casual Italian fare since 1947. Great for large parties, the dining room holds 240. The Pacific red snapper meunière and roast sirloin of beef are standouts. 931 Fourth St, 415.456.2425, srjoes.com

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

NAPOLI Italian This is a family-owned-andrun restaurant with a unique craft beer program; they keep the prices down and the libations flowing. About 45 wines and 25 beers (including some from Marin) are on the list at any given time. The pizza and pasta on the extensive dinner menu are a merge of East Coast Italian with Marin and Bay Area accents. Gluten free pizza and pasta available. 869 4th St, 415.459.3315, napolirestaurant.biz

PIZZA ORGASMICA

American Eat in or order a half-baked pizza to cook and enjoy at home. Visit the website for information about monthly specials such as Orgasmica Madness

WHIPPER SNAPPER RESTAURANT

California/Caribbean Owner and chef Bill Higgins serves reasonably priced and delicious tapas. Save room for delicious fish tacos and yummy chocolate bread pudding. On Sundays, try the $3 glasses of sangria. 1613 Fourth St, 415.256.1818, whipsnap.biz

SAUSALITO

ANGELINO

SOLFOOD 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

SUSHI TO DAI FOR Japanese Snagging a seat in this popular sushi spot can be a challenge, but patience will be rewarded with tasty and fresh sashimi, unique sushi rolls and great prices. 816 Fourth St, 415.721.0392

TAJ OF MARIN 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

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 featuring 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. For an indulgent treat order the Szechwan crispy calamari or honey-glazed walnut

pickiest barfly well satisfied. 107 Caledonia St, 415.332.3620, sushiran.com

SWEET GINGER

Japanese Owner and chef Edna and Wayne Chiang know their way around good sushi. Try fresh sashimi, the classic Dragon Roll, 49er’s Roll or Rock ’N Roll, or be adventurous and have Wayne whip you up something o the menu. Good sake and a comfortable setting round out the reasonably priced meal. 400 Caledonia St, 415.332.1683, sweet gingersausalito.com

TASTE OF THE

HIMALAYAS Himalayan

Born in the foothills of the Himalayas, siblings Pemba, Dawa and Pasang serve up favorites from Nepal, Tibet and India. The restaurant focuses on blending di erent cultures and cuisines: spices from India, spirituality from

Tibet, hospitality from Nepal and the freshness of ingredients from California. 2633 Bridgeway, 415.331.1335, himalayaca.com

THETRIDENT Seafood

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

WELLINGTON’S

California British transport Jeremy John and his wife, Jill, have created an expansive (2,400-square-foot) wine bar with a homey feel, board games,

views of the bay and a worldly cellar featuring a ordable bottles and special reserves. 300 Turney St, 415.331.9463, wellingtonswine.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

DYNASTY Chinese

Chinese Mu shu pork and pot stickers are among the menu choices; located near the point of Tiburon. 1801 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.6766, tiburondynasty.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

GINZA Japanese

Whether you simply go for the volcano roll or indulge in the eight-course Omakase meal, the fresh ingredients coupled with the tremendous view of San Francisco keep this place busy, so make reservations or get there early. 41 Main St, 415.789.5123, ginzasushi-tiburon.com

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

touch-it-you’re-so-close city views and outdoor seating make it a great place to bring visitors on a warm summer night. Happy hour is 5 to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Menu includes specialties like puerco macho — pork loin chop with grilled plantain, topped with an ancho chile, garlic and onion sauce.

5 Main St, 415.435.6300, guaymasrestaurant.com

MILANO Italian Located in the Cove Shopping Center, this 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

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 jalapeno dipping sauce. 38 Main Street, 415.435.3594

SAM’SANCHOR 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, where 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 Monday through Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. 1651 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.5996, tiburontavern.com

WEST MARIN

DRAKESBEACH 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 Osteria

Stellina suits any occasion. The menu is Italian-inspired using organic, local ingredients. Don’t leave without indulging in the standout lemon ice cream sandwich (Point Reyes). 11285 Hwy 1, 415.663.9988, osteriastellina.com

PINE CONE DINER

American Vintage china and homemade curtains complement the eclectic but homey menu featuring local fare. A favorite for locals as well as tourists (Point Reyes Station). 60 Fourth St, 415.663.1536,

pineconediner.com

RANCHO NICASIO

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

SAND DOLLAR

American Originally built from three barges in Tiburon in 1921, the Sand Dollar Restaurant was floated to Stinson that same year and it’s still there today. Enjoy live music along with local barbecued oysters and New England clam chowder. (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 the live music and enticing wine and beer lists. 11180 State Route One, 415.663.1515, stationhousecafe.com

DEALS ON MEALS

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!

a taste of the

fare, including authentic

and

Amici’s East Coast Pizzeria 1242 Fourth Street

San Rafael, CA amicis.com

Gather Together for the New Year! Traditional to chef-inspired, join us for a locally-harvested dinner with your family and friends. Enjoy cuisine stations celebrating the season, vegan selections, and Chef Scott’s family recipes for dessert. The table is set, no dishes to be done. Call for details and reservations and book your next party!

San Rafael, CA

On the Scene

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

DEEPAK CHOPRA TALK AND BOOK SIGNING Bestselling author Deepak Chopra shared insights from his new book God: A Story of Revelation and signed copies October 8 at the Palace of Fine Arts Theatre in San Francisco.

M ARIN SYMPHONY’S CARNIVAL ITALIAN Marin Symphony’s 60th season opened in style October 28 as guests enjoyed a performance of Viva Italia! followed by wine, dinner and entertainment at the Osher Marin JCC.

M AD M ARIN, A FUNDRAISER

FOR M ARIN’S YOUTH Just like the TV show, Marin Charitable’s “Mad Marin” event was a 1960s-infused evening of cocktails, dinner and dancing. The October 13 fundraiser was held at the IDESST hall in Sausalito.

ANGELS BY THE BAY More than 250 guests enjoyed wine, lunch, and auction items at this muchanticipated annual gala. Proceeds from the October 12 event held at the Corinthian Yacht Club benefited Marin Center for Independent Living.

360_Jan_2013_Marin 10/31/12 2:59 PM Page 1

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We can’t guarantee you a seat at Farley Bar. Then again, you might not need it.

Only locals know the statistical improbability of getting into Farley Bar on Saturday. And only locals fully understand what it takes to sell a luxury home in Marin. Frank Howard Allen has been selling them for more than 100 years, which has earned us unmatched experience, global presence, and inside knowledge that can’t be learned overnight. As they say, practice makes perfect. And we know you’re not interested in anything less.

Marin Home

FROM TOURS AND MAKEOVERS TO DECORATIVE DETAILS AND REALTOR INSIGHTS

Finding the perfect home in an area where community and nature converge.

MATT AND ERIN McMahon chose to settle in an area many people only see in passing. In fact, unincorporated Tamalpais Valley, which most are familiar with as the area near Mill Valley flanking Highway 1 as it begins its journey to the coast, has a lot more to o er than a through route.

The East Coast transplants met, married and for almost five years resided in San Francisco before moving to Mill Valley in 2001. Their first home in town was a rental in the Enchanted K nolls neighborhood; a year later they bought a house in nearby Tam Valley.

“At the time, we had no children, and no Gus,” says Matt, founder and CEO of San Francisco marketing technology firm Thrivepoint, referring to the couple’s two young daughters, Emily and Ava, and the family’s trusty yellow Labrador retriever.

B ut soon, with a family, and having recently renovated their home, the couple began casually attending real estate open

houses to see if any new places piqued their interest. T hey also asked Stephanie Witt, the Marin realtor who had helped them buy their first home, to take them along “to peek at different neighborhoods every six months, out of curiosity,” says Erin, a sales representative for Microsoft.

O ne day, while searching on real estate websites, the couple stumbled on an advertised open house on the outskirts of Marin Terrace, an enclave of hillside homes in Tam Valley. “Ava was sleeping, so I went to look at the house first and then, a little later, Matt went to see it,” Erin recalls. “Afterward, we looked at each other and said, ‘A re you thinking what I ’m thinking?’ We called Stephanie that day.”

Actually, the McMahons had “basically stopped looking when they spotted the home they would eventually purchase,” Witt says, but “we put in the o er subject to them selling their home. As luck would have it, I had the perfect buyer for it.”

And “because the new home they were interested in had been on the market for a bit of time,” she adds, “the sellers were open to the contingent o er. It all worked out well.”

The property, a gracious two-story residence set on a quarter-acre, is framed with live oaks, eucalyptus, redwood and Japanese

maples and has four bedrooms and three bathrooms. T he Tam Valley neighborhood “is very family-oriented,” Matt adds, “and we love the community center. People come together there to do fun things and talk about issues.”

T hen there’s the outdoor appeal. “We’re near several parks and only 20 minutes from Stinson and Muir beaches, which Gus loves,” he says. “We like to hike trails and we’re right next to the Golden Gate National Recreation A rea. It’s like everyone’s big backyard.”

A s for the commute, Erin says, getting to the highway for her scenic drive to San Francisco is easy. “ I love to see the fog roll over the bridge and, on a sunny day, you can see all the buildings in the city,” she says with a grin. m

THE DETAILS

WH ERE TH EY PURC HAS ED Mill Valley’s Marin Terrace in Tamalpais Valley

WHAT TH E Y BOUGHT A four-bedroom hillside home

LISTING AGE NTS Nancie Bottmeyer of Madison Company Realtors and Connie Irwin of Pacific Union International

SE LLING AGENT Stephanie Witt, Pacific Union International

STATS Average cost per square foot for homes in neighborhood: $395

The property, a gracious two-story residence set on a quarter-acre, is framed with live oaks, eucalyptus, redwood and Japanese maples.

Looking Through

Some are neat and some are tidy but all these windows reflect the personal style of their owners and, most important, o er a view out to the world.

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

PHOTOS BY TIM PORTER

McGuire Real Estate Congratulates its 2012 Marin Top Producers

For over 90 years, McGuire Real Estate has been recognized as a premier real estate brokerage throughout the Bay Area. How are we able to consistently live up to such high expectations? We do it through the abilities of our salespeople — the Bay Area's Best!

Liz McCarthy #1 Marin Agent -2012 Top Producer and McGuire Partner

WCR 2012 Realtor of the Year

MARIN 2012 TOP PRODUCER AWARD WINNERS

MARIN OFFICE MEDAL WINNERS

Luxury Estate www.WoodsideLuxuryEstate.com

Once in a lifetime comes the opportunity to acquire a rare and extraordinary architectural masterpiece….welcome to Woodhaven! This incomparable estate is nestled in one of the Peninsula’s most exclusive enclaves.The town of Woodside is treasured for its unspoiled natural beauty and relaxed California lifestyle. Blessed with outstanding schools and innumerable outdoor activities, there is always something for friends and families to do together.

This private, secluded Tiburon waterfront home sits on the San Francisco Bay and has unbelievable water views, modern contemporary design, pool, landscaped patios, and beach access. bedrooms, office, beachfront and Boat Dock. Call today for a private showing. NOT ON MLS.

This exceptional, gated estate offers privacy and serenity plus welcoming breathtaking bay, lake and hill views from nearly every room. The estate has approx. 12,000 sq. ft. of living space. Strategically situated on approx. 13 acres, this property is unmatched in the attention to every detail.

Sweeping views of the valley & Mt. Tam. Home is a 3 Bedroom (each with their own decks), 2 Bath, completely remodeled in 1996 by a renown local architect Fani Hansen. Living room, dining and open floor plan, kitchen offers a unique blend of contemporary living in a natural park-like setting. 2 Car garage (attached). Cathedral ceiling, large wood burning fireplace, granite counters, oak hardwood and tile, Skylights, Sunny!

World Class Views of San Francisco www.TiburonViewEstate.com

With nearly 2 acres of level grounds, this Ross estate is reminiscent of an Italian Villa. Complete with art, design, and sculpture by European master craftsmen, a Chef’s kitchen and a great room with classical frescoes and hand crafted fireplaces.The dream-like atmosphere is accentuated by the park like grounds with tennis pavillion and a pool house, custom built with the finest design and finishes. It is one of the most unique and spectacular estates.

Close to the College of Marin, Ross and San Anselmo, this residential lot is a valuable opportunity to build your own custom home.

Rare opportunity - 5-bedroom, 5-full & 3-half bath estate in Tiburon. The estate sits on nearly 2/3 of an acre and features 8,000 square feet of living space and countless thoughtful touches.The sweeping World Class views of San Francisco combined with the exceptional indoor-outdoor living make this a sanctuary from the stress of life for the discerning homeowner.

Celebrating the Extraordinary Agents Who Recently Joined Us!

We welcome the top agents of today and tomorrow that have joined Decker Bullock Sotheby’s Inter national Realty recently. They can now offer their clients the best global brand, international exposure, and luxury services for properties at every price point. “I

If you would like to

or are an agent considering a

please contact me at heidipay@sothebysrealty.com or 415.384.4008.”

Offered at $3.7m

his uni ue private ill alley view home sports a perfect oor plan for family living and entertaining. Located on a tranquil knoll top, this ideal family home is nestled 30 minutes from San Francisco, 5 to Mill Valley, 10 to the beach, and steps to the renowned Dipsea Trail and Muir Woods.

About The DuPont Group and Our Core Business

The DuPont Group differentiates itself by consistent results in Southern Marin's middle to high-end market. Our clients' success is based on our selectively accepting only a few clients at a time, and empowering them with our proprietary market research, and home valuation data—some of which can be found on our research blog at SMREB.com.

Our target market and core competencies lie in the following towns and price segments: Mill Valley $1m–6m, Tiburon $1.35m–6m, Sausalito $1m–6m, & San Anselmo $1m–3m.

Vistazo St E, Tiburon

Rancho Drive, Tiburon

Bulkley Ave, Sausalito

Santa Rosa Ave, Sausalito 182 Oak Ave, San Anselmo 171 Crescent Ave, San Anselmo

Corte Madera

Mid-Century Modern in Mill Valley Offered at $1,295,000

This lovely Mill Valley property offers exceptional living space, privacy, light and a modern style and grace. A brick walkway, accented with a lush lawn, plantings & exquisite wisteria, leads to the entry of this inviting two-story home. Walk into the entry hall and you are greeted with a two-story wall of glass windows leading upstairs and a gracious living room on the main living level. he living room features a fireplace and walls of windows looking out to the level grassy yard and patio areas. Adjacent to the living room is a formal dining room with large windows and skylights also overlooking the lush yard with more wisteria, plus apple, plum, and pear trees. A door from the dining room leads to a fantastic kitchen with a built-in dining area and more large windows. half bath lots of storage access to the attached garage and a bonus room the perfect office complete this level. ravel up the stairway to discover a huge family room with tons of oor to ceiling built ins for storage a wall of window seats and a small deck. master suite two additional bedrooms, and a second full bath complete this upper level. The charming setting adds a sense of serenity. Easy SF commute, close pro imity to schools and the trawberry ecreation enter are added benefits. his is a gem

224

Camara Scremin – LOCAL Expertise &

GREAT NEWS FOR SELLERS! Sales continue to be brisk with recent statistics showing both closings AND pending sales up. Buyers have less inventory to choose from than they did at this time last year and the unsold “months of inventory” has dropped to one of its lowest levels since the financial collapse. I get multiple calls and emails daily from Buyers and their reps trying to find more inventory that is not on the market. If you have been thinking of selling, CALL ME for a risk free assessment of your home¹s value. Now is the time!

BOWMAN

RECOGNIZED

LOCAL LEADER

Alain Pinel Realtors is an established market leader and has a reputation for expertise in representing some of the finest homes in the Bay Area. Due to our powerful local brand, we were selected to be a founding member of Luxury Portfolio InternationalTM, the luxury face of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® – the largest global network of premier companies, dominated by many of the world’s most powerful independent luxury brokerages.

Our affiliation with this influential organization allows us to market your unique property to nearly 200 well respected firms in 45 states and 27 countries. This relationship gives our properties additional domestic and global exposure, and has proven to be the most effective luxury real estate marketing system in the world.

Golden Gate Avenue, Belvedere

In Contract! From the estate of the inventor of the first automatic swimming pool cleaner, Andrew L. Pansini. See the sun rise and set from this magnificent, 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath, 5200+/-sf property.

200GoldenGate.com

$7,900,000 The Stewarts 415.898.1244

Mariposa Court, Tiburon

Elegant, Mediterranean-style home designed for indoor/outdoor entertaining and to maximize the world class views. Custom built home with a sauna, library and gymnasium. 4 bedrooms, 6 baths (4 full, 2 half). 5280+/-sf.

7Mariposa.com

$3,900,000 Toni Abruzzo-Ramirez 415.827.8280

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

Edgewood Avenue, Mill Valley

On a 10+/-acre lot with amazing Mt Tamalpais views, this special and unique property offers 5200+/-sf of living space, six bedrooms and a 1200+/-sf, unfinished guest house. A magical world of its own.

820Edgewood.com

$2,795,000

Bernard Link 415.336.8676

West Brooke Drive, Novato

Gorgeous, gated mini-estate. Elegant yet charming. Spacious 4bd/3.5ba plus detached 1bd/1ba guest house. Situated on .5+/-acre with pool, sport court, playground, manicured gardens and a five-car garage.

13WestBrooke.com

$1,849,000

Team McNair

415.613.5563

Paseo Mirasol, Tiburon

Reduced! Lovingly maintained, 4 bedroom, 3 bath home in a fantastic neighborhood. Kitchen with sunroom, family room, formal living room and dining area.

52PaseoMirasol.com

$1,585,000

Dennis Naranche

415.789.1515

Inverness Drive, San Rafael

Reduced! Resort living in Loch Lomond. 4bd/3.5ba, great room off kitchen, lower level office, upper level wood floors, fireplace, laundry room, flagstone decking, 2-car garage and fabulous water views.

$2,275,000

Christa Hertzka 415.717.7781

Monte Cimas Avenue, Mill Valley

Beautifully remodeled, this light-filled home features stunning views, elegant, high ceilinged living spaces, income unit, darling studio/cottage and a chef’s kitchen which opens to a flat yard. Easy drive.

14MonteCimas.com

$1,549,000

Julie Leitzell

Julie Leitzell.com

Meadowlands Forever

Thanks to a gift of nearly $8.5 million, a 125-year-old mansion will be given new life. BY JIM WOOD

STAFF AND STUDENTS on the campus of Dominican University of California are going to have to change the way they think of the student dorm known as Meadowlands Hall as shown above in the A nsel Adams photo taken in 1932.

T he building began life in 1888 as a Victorian mansion built for Michael H. de Young, cofounder of the San Francisco Chronicle. Its name stems from its location, overlooking a S an Rafael greensward formerly called Golden Meadows. Reportedly, its original construction costs totaled $7,880. T hirty years later, in 1918, de Young donated his handsome home to D ominican College; it was the fledgling school’s first significant gift. For years it served as a dormitory; then it was expanded to include an assembly hall, conference rooms and offices. In 1977, Meadowlands was named a “building

of historical significance” by the S an Rafael Cultural Commission.

Now, thanks largely to an $8.5 million grant from the family of Rolf Lewis, a legendary San Francisco restaurateur (Rolf’s Since 1960) with a home in Greenbrae, Meadowlands will undergo yet another transformation. “The restoration of this historic structure will create a dynamic center for learning,” says Mary Marcy, president of Dominican University. “It will house our departments of nursing and occupational therapy.” According to her, the renovation will preserve the exterior and first-floor features of the 30,000-square-foot building while locating classrooms and research laboratories on the second and third floors.

“Meadowlands was Dominican College’s first significant gift,” Marcy said when announcing the Lewis family’s grant, “and now it’s the focus of our largest-ever gift.” m CIRCA

The restoration of this historic structure will create a dynamic center for learning.

Terra Mortgage Banking

Marc Loeber (415) 464-3167

Terra Mortgage Banking

Larkspur Headquarters (415) 925-9900

FHA lender

Super-Jumbo Loans to $5 Million TerraMortgageBanking.com

In only three short years, Terra Mortgage Banking has grown to be the largest independent residential lender in Marin County. How? By taking a local approach to real estate lending.

That’s Marin native Marc Loeber in the picture above.

Marc joined Terra because he believes local borrowers should have access to a local direct lender. Terra works with local appraisers, o ers genuine loan approvals and quick closing times, and our rates meet or beat those of the national mega-lenders.

Our ve Marin branch o ces are sta ed with experienced, nationally accredited Mortgage Advisors who live in Marin and understand the local market. Like Marc.

If you are purchasing a new home, or re nancing your present one, we invite you to contact us today to discover the advantages of a local approach to lending.