Marin Magazine November 2013

Marin

JARED GOFF

Cal Football’s Young Starter

ALL TOGETHER Family Reunions on the Beach

GRATITUDE

Changing Lives for Those In Need

Celebrate Thanksgiving in the Wine Country

Profiles of San Francisco and Marin Lawyers

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In Marin

21 Currents Good grains, books, new cafes and uniquely Marin terms.

24 On the Job Fairfax’s Mitchell Field knows hair.

28 Style Get cozy with knits this fall.

30 Q&A A Novato football star takes the field for Cal.

34 Made by Marin Say cheese.

36 Conversation Marin’s 2nd District supervisor.

Destinations

69 Go: Beaches Family reunions are better on the beach.

74 Go: Bees Hotels embrace beekeeping.

76 Journey Adventure and fun in New Zealand.

Out & About

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

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

106 Flavor Taking student lunches to the next level.

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

Marin Home

123 Backstory A family finds a home with space and luxury.

for silver belles from POMELLATO 67 in the new shop on One

PUBLISHER / EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Nikki Wood

Editorial

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Mimi Towle

MANAGING EDITOR Daniel Jewett

SENIOR WRITER Jim Wood

EDITOR-AT-LARGE Tim Porter

COPY EDITOR Cynthia Rubin

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Calin Van Paris

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lynda Balslev, Dawn Margolis Denberg, Laura Hilgers, Carrie Kirby, Stephanie Martin, Barb Ries

Art

ART DIRECTOR Veronica Sooley

PRODUCTION MANAGER Alex French

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lynda Balslev, Mo DeLong, Ron Purdy, Barb Ries, Debra Tarrant, Nike van der Molen

Advertising

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Corporate

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER & PRESIDENT

Richard M. Franks

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Todd P. Paul

CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER Forbes C. Durey

Advertising

DIRECTOR OF SALES Darla Walker

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Marketing & Events

CORPORATE DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & EVENTS

Cathy Hale

DIRECTOR OF EVENTS & COMMUNITY RELATIONS

Meredith Parsons

MARKETING & EVENTS COORDINATOR

Meghan Athnos

DIRECTOR OF AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT

Kerri Nolan

Cavallo Point provides an idyllic backdrop for holiday festivities. Savor expansive Thanksgiving and Christmas buffets with several food stations, including prime rib, a raw bar, pasta, salads and more.

For private gatherings, the lodge offers stunning indoor and outdoor event spaces, and menus highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients from local providers—enhanced by a stellar wine list.

Bay Area events

you’ll want to attend

HALLECK CREEK RANCH ANNUAL DINNER & AUCTION

$125 general; $275 VIP 415.662.2488, halleckcreekranch.org WHEN WHERE

November 15, 6 p.m. VIP, 6:30 p.m. general

Rancho Nicasio, 1 Old Rancheria Road, Nicasio

Guests will enjoy delicious dinner and wine as well as an auction and live music at Rancho Nicasio, a historic site located at the Nicasio town square. The evening is Halleck Creek Ranch’s signature event and helps the organization provide funding for scholarships and the care of its herd of therapy horses. Halleck Creek is a Bay Area pioneer in the field of therapeutic riding and equine-assisted activities for youth and adults with special needs.

WE BEGIN OUR features this month with a story on the perfect holiday meal in wine country. For the piece, we sent executive editor Mimi Towle to Ram’s Gate Winery in Sonoma along with photographer Tim Porter and photography assistant Debra Tarrant. They captured the whole delicious story in pictures and words to share with you this holiday season. The piece also includes a link to eight recipes for dishes by chef Taylr Behnam that you can make at home.

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

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

We continue features and the holiday theme with a story about gratitude by Laura Hilgers. You’ll meet five recipients of the good work done by Marin organizations that help those in need — from the Brain Injury Network to Guide Dogs for the Blind — and learn what you can do to benefit these organizations yourself.

We wrap up features with a new section dedicated to lawyers. As writer Carrie Kirby puts it: “Hiring an attorney is a little bit like having a baby: You may only do it a few times in life, and when the time comes you may realize you don’t know what you’re doing.” We tell you all you need to know to pick the perfect

They captured the whole delicious story in pictures and words to share with you this holiday season.

attorney and introduce you to some candidates in our special profiles section.

In the front of the book we invite you to meet a fashion icon, an emerging sports star, some crafty cheese makers and Marin’s 2nd District supervisor. We’ve also got some cozy fall fashion picks and a look at the newest Marin terminology.

In Destinations we explore stellar winter beach locations that are perfect for the whole family. We follow that with a look at the new trend of beekeeping hotels and ideas for adventure and fun in New Zealand.

We’ve set the clocks back and taken the warm jackets out of the closet — winter is here. It is the perfect time to start a fire, make some hot chocolate and sit down with a good book … or magazine.

Marin Magazine Staff Editors

Is Marin General a Good Investment?

A vibrant community needs a healthy hospital.

BY JIM WOOD

MY WIFE AND I no longer have children living at home, yet we always vote yes on school bond issues. Sure, it increases our property taxes, but good schools also increase our property values. “Good schools, along with high-quality health care, are essential ingredients of a vibrant community,” says Mary Jane Burke, Marin County superintendent of schools.

eliminated any medical provincialism that might have once existed — Marin General is in the forefront of the advances in medicine, and that’s a good place to be.”

Assuming Measure F passes, Marin General Hospital, which is owned by the residents of Marin, will get a newly constructed 300,000-square-foot building consisting of two wings and 235 private rooms, along with two new parking structures that will accommodate more than 900 vehicles. Construction, which includes enlarging and modernizing Marin’s only trauma care center, will start in 2015 and take approximately three years to complete. The existing hospital buildings will be open during construction.

We will definitely vote yes on Measure F, this month’s $394 million bond issue.

So we will definitely vote yes on Measure F, this month’s $394 million bond issue allowing Marin General Hospital to modernize and become seismically safe. Yes, we know it will cost us around $250 a year for the next 35 or so years (assuming we’ll live so long). To us, it’s a good investment. A fine hospital serves not only the health and emergency care needs of its surrounding community; it also attracts top-flight doctors, researchers and medical sta . Success begets success.

Agreed, today’s Marin General Hospital looks nice, but it was built 61 years ago for a county with 49,000 residents — today, Marin has 255,600 residents. Meanwhile, the state has determined our hospital to be unsafe in an earthquake — an all-too-likely event in which a hospital would be urgently needed. And because retrofitting the old and perilous buildings has been deemed impractical, Marin General must be built anew, in its same central location in Greenbrae.

After years of turbulent administration, over the past four years CEO Lee Domanico and his sta have righted the ship and, according to knowledgeable sources, now have MGH heading in a very positive direction. “I’ve been at Marin General for 35 years,” says Dr. Peter Eisenberg, an oncologist who was a member of the Marin Healthcare District Board for 10 years, “and the hospital, thanks to Lee and his team, has

But completing this ambitious project won’t be easy. Its total cost is $500 million, meaning more than $100 million — mostly to build a 100,000-square-foot outpatient center — will have to come from private donors and foundations. And passing the $394 million bond will require two out of every three voters agreeing to raise their taxes several hundred dollars a year for the next 30-plus years. The state requires this work to be completed by 2030 or conceivably the hospital will be shut down. “That’s an ominous possibility,” says Jon Friedenberg, MGH’s chief business development o cer, “but also consider the earthquake we all know is coming — will we have patients in our parking lot and be unable to treat the injuries that are bound to happen? I was in L.A. during the Northridge quake and saw that happen.”

What will a new Marin General Hospital cost you? Your home’s assessed value is front and center on your current property tax bill. For every $100,000 of that figure, expect to pay about $21 per year for 34 years (the average assessed value in Marin is $650,000, which divided by $100,000 and multiplied by $21 comes to $137 per year.) Also note: Novato has its own hospital district and won’t vote on Measure F. Voting yes on Measure F is a sound investment, both personally and for the good of the Marin community. That’s my point of view. What’s yours?

Email pov@marinmagazine.com.

Your Letters

Air Force vs. Navy

Someone must be new around here. You state that Hamilton is a former naval air base (In Marin, “Trick or Treat” October 2013). Former air base, yes; a naval base, no. Hamilton Air Base was a U.S. Air Force air defense base that was flying F102s and F106s until it closed back in the 1990s. During my air force pilot training (in Big Spring, Texas) I flew to Hamilton on a training mission that just happened to bring me home to see my fiancé who was still at Cal.  Shortly thereafter we were married on Treasure Island. Now that is/was a naval base. Happy landings, happy endings. CAPTAIN WILLIAM THURLOW, VIA EMAIL

Slow Medicine

Blair Campbell’s article “Slow Medicine” (September 2013), as well as the other articles mentioned in her piece, should be required

reading for boomers with aging parents. Ironically, I came across this article a few hours after spending a long afternoon at Kaiser Terra Linda. My mother was in serious condition as a result of an unexpected and fast-acting infection. The next morning, while I was back at the hospital, I read Katy Butler’s and Michael Wol ’s articles on my iPad while I was waiting to see if my mom’s symptoms improved. Unfortunately, they did not. This article helped reinforce the decision I had to make, which was to not let the doctors perform a highly invasive surgery on someone already su ering from multiple serious ailments. After this decision, my mom was put into what Kaiser calls comfort care; she passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, a few hours later. We were able to spend my mother’s last few hours by her side, which made this excruciating

ONLINE, WE ASKED YOU

For the holidays, where is your favorite place to gather for a drink with friends?

“Lincoln Park Wine Bar, 123 Bolinas, Bar Bocce.”

Nancy Chapluk Zadoff

“Brick & Bottle for happy hour.”

Marie Zanoni-Begg

“Buckeye Roadhouse.”

Deborah Rachlin McDonnell

“Marin Brewing Company.”

Jan Mitchell

“I think it is going to be Farmshop this year.”

Sue Grant-Marsh

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ordeal a little more bearable. Many thanks to Blair Campbell for writing the article and thanks to Marin Magazine for publishing it. It has already had an impact on at least one person, and I suspect it will be an eye-opener for many other people who are in a similar situation. DOUGLAS KORB, CASTRO VALLEY

Fashion Fun

I really enjoyed your fashion spread (“Into the Woods,” September 2013), so appreciated as cooler weather approaches. I especially liked the outfit on the opening two pages and the photo of the model with the updo on page 57. It all brought back memories of my East Coast college days. PHYLLIS LEMOYNE, POINT RICHMOND

Planning for the Future

Jim Wood’s article on Plan Bay Area (POV, “What’s the Plan?” June 2013) takes marketing spin at face value but ignores the details — and the devil is always in the details. Plan Bay Area is one of those utopian schemes that sounds good in theory but will cause catastrophe in practice. LINDA GRABER, NOVATO

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I would like to respond to Jim Wood’s “What’s the Plan?” article. Plan Bay Area is a very complicated issue, which includes Marin’s lack of water, infrastructure, school funding and flawed Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) quotas and realistic population and job projections. I would like to suggest Wood read The Best Laid Plans, by architect and former affordable housing developer Bob Silvestri. Silvestri writes about better ways of providing housing than Plan Bay Area’s one-size-fits-all approach that warehouses low-income residents in high-density apartments next to smoggy freeways. Silvestri suggests a “complete communities” approach, where needs are uniquely defined by each community, not dictated by out-of-touch Sacramento bureaucrats. TONI SHROYER, NOVATO

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

Lighten Up for the Holidays

Usually pack on the pounds between now and New Year’s, then resolve to lose it later? You don’t have to let the Holidays weigh you down.

The feasting and feting season is upon us. As we prepare to indulge and imbibe, fortification need not apply only to our cocktails. Many in Marin are adding healthy touches to their holiday meals with whole grains. Quinoa, farro, wheat berries and wild rice are but a few nutrientrich foods that add hearty flavor and a satisfying rustic crunch to salads, stuffings and vegetables. Not only do whole grains provide extra vitamins and protein; they include many gluten-free options and let you indulge at the table without guilt. You already know you’re going to celebrate; consider these recipes an early holiday bonus. See recipes online, marinmagazine.com/ grains. LYNDA BALSLEV

BOOKS

Reading List

The Final Leap: Suicide on the Golden Gate Bridge by John Bateson, University of California Press, $29.95 . Grim, yes, but also fascinating. The who, what, when and why of 1,500-or-so suicide leaps from the 75-year-old structure that is the world’s leading suicide spot. Moreover, why do we allow it to continue?

The Beauty of the Real: What Hollywood Can Learn from Contemporary French Actresses by Mick LaSalle, Stanford General Books, $24.95 . The S.F. Chronicle film critic weighs in on how and why performances by French film actresses are more authentic than Hollywood’s movie stars. “LaSalle understands how French women are allowed to go deeper,” says Roger Ebert.

Sweet Cream and Sugar Cones: 90 Recipes for Making Your Own Ice Cream and Frozen Dessert Treats from Bi-Rite Creamery by Kris Hoogerhyde, Anne Walker and Dabney Gough, Ten Speed Press, $24.95 . On San Francisco’s 18th Street, there is always a line of people waiting to buy ice cream. This book tells you why — and more.

JIM WOOD

New Additions

It seems every type of establishment from museum to artist workshop is adding cafes to the mix. Everyone likes a bite and a cup, and now you can get them at more of your favorite places. CALIN VAN PARIS

1 Bean Sprouts Cafe at the Bay Area Discovery

Museum If you’ve stopped by the Bay Area Discovery Museum lately, you may have noticed that Bean Sprouts Cafe and Cooking School has taken over the historic blacksmith’s building on the premises. Bean Sprouts has healthy, nut-free options for the whole family (babies included) and will o er cooking classes — dubbed Imaginibbles — for children ages 2 to 6 beginning in 2014. beansprouts.com

2

Park 121 at Cornerstone Sonoma If you’re craving a taste of the wine country, plan a stop to Park 121. Located in Cornerstone Sonoma, a nine-acre series of walk-through gardens, the cafe o ers fresh and local seasonal dishes made to reflect its beautiful surroundings. Planning to spend the day tasting? Check out Pair It!, chef Bruce Reizenman’s food and wine app, which allows users to make perfect pairings based on varietals and regions. park121.com

3 Odalisque Cafe and Grille at Art Works

Downtown The most recent addition to Art Works

Downtown is Odalisque Cafe and Grille, a gathering space and restaurant featuring CaliforniaMediterranean cuisine. It’s a perfect fit, as Odalisque owners Lisa Long and Jay Yinger are longtime proponents of AWD, and both have art studios within the unique space. odalisquecafe.com

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The Other Mitchell

ON THE JOB

From swinging London ladies

in

the sixties to Marin soccer moms, Mitchell Field knows hair. BY

TIM PORTER

TMitchell Field, Mitchell Field Salon, 31 Broadway, Fairfax, 415.454.8818, mitchellfieldsalon.com

he arc of Mitchell Field’s half-century of cutting and coloring hair is like a well-coiffed culture wave that rose in the swinging-London salon of Vidal Sassoon, crashed on American shores at Woodstock, roiled through the rock ’n’ roll years of the L.A. punk scene and eventually curled calmly into the tranquil backwaters of Fairfax, where Field has had a pocket-size salon right on the main drag for 23 years. You were 14 when you started with Sassoon in London. What was the attraction? In the ’60s that particular salon on Bond Street was very exciting. Everybody was there — all the models, all the movie stars, all the top hairdressers. What was it like? For the first three months I just swept the floor and stood outside in the rain getting taxis for rich ladies. In 1969, you were at Woodstock. Any great memories? I woke up about 5 o’clock the first morning and walked around. Behind the stage I saw a backstage pass right there in the mud. After that I was backstage whenever I wanted. I had food, I had toilets, I talked to Janis — it was great. You’re in the Woodstock movie. Right, I’m on the split screen with Joe Cocker. He’s on one side and I’m on the other. He’s singing “With a Little Help from My Friends.” In the ’80s, you had salons in L.A. Any famous clients? First, a lot of rock ’n’ rollers: Billy Idol, Adam Ant, Alice Cooper. Then, a lot of television people. My big client was Michael Richards from Seinfeld, Kramer. Any secrets about making that hair? Not really. Unfortunately, that’s his hair. Whom do people want to look like today? Jennifer Aniston. Still? Absolutely. He asks fellow stylist Chelsea Healey: Who else do people want to look like? She answers: That’s it. Is there a Marin look? Well, I don’t know. Marin is soccer mom territory. What do you think, Chelsea? She answers: There are a lot of blondes. You style a lot of men. What’s that like? Guys generally want the same thing over and over and over. Women don’t. When do men change? When their girlfriends tell them to. Women? Women cut their hair when they have a breakup. When a woman comes in with long hair and says, “I want all my hair cut off,” I know she’s had a breakup. I have to ask her, “Is this kind of an emotional decision you’re making?” Are more men having their hair colored? It’s the fastest-growing service in the business. What don’t people like about their hair? Nobody likes anything about their hair. You know the best kind of hair to have? The kind that someone else has got. That’s what everybody wants. What trends do you see? Big hair — volume, curl, movement. Extensions are very big, too. How did you end up in Marin? By luck. One time we came through Fairfax and I parked right in front of this store, which was empty. I went next door. Chuck Peri, the owner, was there. “Yeah,” he said. “I was going to rent it to a guy but he had a lot of tattoos and I don’t like him.” I gave him a check right there for the first month’s rent. What do you think of Fairfax? It’s the best town in Marin. I shouldn’t say that because people in southern Marin get offended. It’s got a fabulous movie theater; free, easy parking; great ice cream; great Italian food. m

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TERMARINOLOGY

We’ve noticed some fun, Marin-specific terms being tossed around in conversation lately. Here are some of our favorites. Did we miss any? C.V.P.

MARINATE (verb): To take time to ponder the many options — be they food, drink or adventure — that Marin has to offer.

MARINSTAGRAM (noun): An Instagram photo of something decidedly Marin, usually used as part of a hashtag.

: The inevitable two degrees of separation that occurs in a county where everybody knows everybody.

MARINTITLED (adj): The entitled attitude commonly found in all corners of the county.

MARINOPOLY (noun): To have the monopoly on a market/ craft/product in Marin.

(noun): Something that could only happen in Marin.

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OP E NING DE CE MB E R 2013

20 QUESTIONS FOR

Jared Go

This year, as college football fans get excited about the Big Game (Cal vs. Stanford) November 23 at Stanford, those of us here in Marin have even more to cheer about. Out on the field under 20 pounds of protective gear, wearing number 16, the 6-foot-4, 200pound Jared Goff will be playing the position of quarterback for Cal — and he’s just a freshman. As the Pac-12 Conference has stepped up recruiting, it’s becoming more common to see freshmen out on the field if they’re good enough. And that’s how the Novato native and Marin Catholic grad wound up leaving the comforts of home in Marin to enroll at UC Berkeley last spring so he’d be eligible to play as a freshman this fall. MIMI TOWLE

1

How do you like playing at Memorial Stadium? It’s really cool to look up and see 63,000 people. It’s a lot noisier [than high school games] and I like the student section. It’s awesome.

2

Influential coach? My first coach was Tony Anello. He’s one of my best friend’s dads — all through Pop Warner he taught me all about the basics. Also my coach at Marin Catholic, Mazi Moayed. Both of them have made me the player I am today.

3 At what age did people start paying attention to you on the field? I’ve always been athletic and played sports like soccer and baseball, but I noticed people paying attention to me around junior high.

4

P re-game superstitions? I don’t like to eat very much, but that might be more comfort than superstition. I have always worn an exact type of undershirt, socks and tights since high school; that qualifies.

5

With you being 30 minutes from home, how often does your mom do your laundry? I don’t like to admit it, but I haven’t done laundry on my own since I got here in January.

6

What do you miss about Marin daily life? I miss seeing the people I know, my family, and friends.

7

Top three restaurants you would bring from Marin to Berkeley? I’m a Novato guy, so Finnegan’s and WildFox, and M&G Burgers in Larkspur.

8

Wish you could sometimes just tailgate? Yes, sometimes I do think about how it would be to just relax and enjoy the game and not have to be super focused. I love playing, obviously, that’s why I do it, but sometimes I’ll think about what my parents and friends are doing and how they must be having a blast.

9

What would you bring to the tailgate? A hot dog or hamburger, something regular.

10

W hat does it take to be a good QB? Besides just talent for the game, having a confidence — not a cockiness, but the confidence that you can get the job done. Having a cool, calm demeanor. You have to be the guy the team can look to and be responsive to.

11

Why do you excel at being a QB? Aside from throwing the football, my mental strength and my confidence in myself are my best attributes.

12 Niners or Raiders? Niners.

13 Joe Namath or Joe Montana? Joe Montana; I didn’t get to see him play but that’s why I wear number 16.

14

15

16

Do you have any quarterback heroes? Joe Montana, Aaron Rodgers, Peyton Manning.

If not football? It would probably be baseball. My dad played for Cal in the ’80s.

Wh om would you like to see play at Super Bowl 50 in 2016, which will be played here in the Bay Area? Niners. I’d love to see them get back to it and win it. I’d definitely go, and it would be crazy — I’d like to see them play the Broncos. Hopefully Peyton Manning is not retired by then.

17

W hat else have you learned at Cal? It’s tough to live on your own. You are thrown into the real world by yourself, as opposed to the bubble of living in Marin. Here you have to figure out things, like where to get food. It’s hard at first, but you get used to it.

18

Wh at was it like for you to go to Cal early? It was difficult, but the right thing to do. I missed some of the day-to-day things that happened at school that I heard about from my friends, but I was able to be home on all the weekends, got to go to prom and graduated with my class.

19

Be rkeley vs. Marin? Still trying to figure my way around Berkeley. It’s much more of a walking town than Marin.

20 Wh en you went back to Marin Catholic to visit, were you the BMOC? Not at all. My friends messed with me just like they used to. m

NEW IN TOWN

MEAT

Best Lil’ Porkhouse This Marin favorite opened the doors to a second (the first is in San Rafael) and much larger location in Corte Madera last month. Expect the same classic barbecue favorites that you would be hard-pressed to find elsewhere in the county; bestlilporkhouse. com. On the run? Grab a bag of Krave Jerky, a healthy, artisanal, anytime snack produced in small batches right up the road in wine country; kravejerky.com

» Marin is already a great place to live, and these new businesses are making it even more fun. Check out what’s new (or just getting better).

4

5

STYLE

Shoe Stories of Sausalito

Step into the season in a pair of this new boutique’s designer o erings; face book.com/shoestoriesof sausalito. If your daughter is in need of some new duds swing by Brandy Melville in the Village at Corte Madera for some stylish steals; brandymelvilleusa.com. 1 Lisa Lebow in Sausalito will help you update your signature style; lisa lebowdesigns.com. And last but certainly not least, Target has found a home in San Rafael; target.com

Body By X Indoor Rowing

Check out Corte Madera’s Body By X and its new indoor rowing program; getfitmarin.com. Just visiting? Check in at 2 Trek Inn Marin , a lodging experience that doubles as a hiker’s mecca; trekinnmarin.com. Head to 3 Pilates Proworks in Mill Valley for a fun and invigorating workout; pilatesproworks.com. If you’re looking for real release, sweat it out at Marin Power Yoga’s heated classes; marinpoweryoga.com

LIFESTYLE

The historic Mill Valley Lumber Yard is now home to 4 Guideboat Co., which o ers everything from clothes to home goods to, you guessed it, boats; guideboatcompany. com. Looking to dress up your home? 5 David Curated Interiors may have exactly what you need; 415.302.8539. If there’s something missing in your makeup regimen, Dollface Marin is the perfect place to pick up a product or receive application training; dollfacemarin.com

Equator Coffees & Teas is slowly taking over town, with a second store now open in Mill Valley. Stop by and enjoy the downtown space (formerly La Coppa), and the conscientious coffee the company is known for; equator coffees.com . This tea shop has managed to remain largely under the radar, but if you’re in the mood for green tea, there’s no place like Breakaway Matcha; breakawaymatcha.com

MADE BY MARIN

Marin French Cheese

ARIN FRENCH CHEESE has been around for a while, and we mean a while — since 1865, to be exact, making it the oldest cheese company in the country. The cheese originally was crafted by founder Je erson Thompson and shipped to dockworkers in San Francisco in the days of gold mines and fresh railroad tracks. What began as Thompson Brothers Creamery and later became Rouge et Noir, a company known for its exceptionally soft, Europeanstyle cheese, is now Marin French Cheese Company — but regardless of the name, the highest standards of cheese making have remained the core priority.

PHILOSOPHY Since its inception, Marin French Cheese has relied on the bounty of nearby Marin and Sonoma County farms and the camaraderie of those who run them. Fresh milk is delivered daily from less than 15 miles away, creating a sense of community among farming neighbors and an unquestionably fresh product.

THE SCOOP If you’re craving creamy, indulgent cheeses, this is your source. The company specializes in soft-ripened brie, camembert and breakfast cheese. The brie has reaped awards both in the U.S. and abroad — the first American brie ever to win in a European contest. WHERE TO GO Sunny day with nothing on the agenda? Head to the company’s Cheese Factory on Hicks Valley Ranch in Petaluma, where you’ll find all the goods and a picnic-perfect property, pond and all. You can also find the cheese at Whole Foods, Mill Valley Market, Woodlands Market and Safeway. WHAT THEY SAY “Since the days of the Gold Rush, Marin French Cheese has practiced time-honored cheese making techniques using fresh milk from neighboring family dairy farms,” says general manager Philippe Chevrollier. marinfrenchcheese.com CALIN VAN PARIS

HEART ATTACK

Heart Attack Warning Signs

• Chest Discomfort that lasts more than a few minutes or that goes away and comes back.

• Discomfort or pain in one or both arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach

• Shortness of breath, with or without chest symptoms

• Cold sweat

• Nausea

• Light-headedness

Marin’s ONLY Accredited Chest Pain Center.

When you’re having a heart attack, every minute counts. That’s why it’s critical to get care from an Accredited Chest Pain Center. This impressive designation, awarded by the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association, means Marin General Hospital follows strict protocols for immediate, life-saving cardiac care. Our seasoned Emergency Department team is exceptionally well-trained to handle cardiovascular emergencies quickly and efficiently. We even have paramedic rigs send us remote electrocardiogram results right from the ambulance, to make sure the cath lab is ready for patients who need it. And our “door-to-treatment” time for those who need cardiac catheterization is exceptional—twice as fast as the national average. So when chest pain strikes, don’t wait: call 911. We’ll take care of the rest.

Katie Rice

Marin’s 2nd District supervisor has a plate full of challenges. BY

JIM WOOD • PHOTOS BY TIM PORTER

YOU’VE HEARD THE expression about going “out of the frying pan into the fire.” In many ways, 53-year-old Katie Rice is doing just that. For eight years, she was administrative assistant to the late Hal Brown, Marin County supervisor for the 2nd District. When Brown, battling cancer, resigned in 2011, Rice was appointed to his position. Seven months later, in June 2012, she defeated two challengers and was elected to the position. Rice lives in San Anselmo’s Sleepy Hollow neighborhood and has been active in community a airs for many years. Before becoming Hal Brown’s assistant, she was his campaign manager and, prior to that, a journalist and also a volunteer on behalf of schools in Ross Valley. Raised in Mill Valley, Rice graduated from

Tamalpais High School in 1978, then went on to earn a degree in liberal studies and English from Sonoma State University. The supervisor is a single mom with three children: Kellam, 26, Jaime, 23, and Aiden, 16, and one dog, Rita, her energetic and faithful hiking companion.

Going from a county supervisor’s administrative assistant to being a county supervisor, what adjustments did you have to make? I had to make a whole lot of adjustments really quickly — in both my professional and my personal life. From the behind-the-scenes adviser to the public face, voice and decision maker representing 50,000 people. From sta to manager. From supervisor’s aide to supervisors’ colleague. The job demands an enormous amount of time; layer on that an election

campaign and there is little room left for family and personal time. My family made sacrifices and also gave me huge support. There have been times that I have had to say no to the job expectations in order to say yes to my family. This move into elected o ce was not planned, so I really had to learn on the fly. My goal was to make the adjustments, make the transition, go up the learning curve, and remain true to who I am, true to what I believe in — and let the rest of the chips fall where they may.

A reconfiguration of the Highway 101 and Sir Francis Drake interchange, known as the Greenbrae Corridor, has been a hot topic lately and you’re part of the discussion. Will you update us? It’s a project that aims to reduce tra c congestion and improve transit

and bike and pedestrian connectivity in the Greenbrae corridor. A solution involves the Transportation Authority of Marin (TAM), Caltrans and the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC). The initial proposal drew such community opposition that TAM appointed a seven-member advisory committee composed of representatives from Larkspur, Corte Madera, Ross Valley and San Rafael to review the project proposal, get local input and make recommendations to the TAM board on how to proceed. In late September,

The

job demands an enormous amount of time; layer on that an election campaign and there is little room left for family and personal time.

in a meeting that went until 2 a.m., the TAM board, which includes representatives from every city and town in the county as well as the five county supervisors, deliberated on what to do with the funding towards making improvements in the corridor. In the end, though all recognized the tra c congestion in the corridor is unbearable, there was a lack of confidence that the freeway solution proposed would provide the congestion relief needed. So instead, the commission (largely following the recommendations of the advisory committee) voted to allocate the available funding towards bike, pedestrian and transit improvements in the corridor, towards exploring improving access to the Richmond–San Rafael bridge via a direct 101 to 580 connection in San Rafael and to increasing capacity on east Sir Francis Drake getting to 580 and the bridge. The commission also recommended providing some funding to the SMART train to help it complete the San Rafael to Larkspur segment of its route.

Another controversy concerns the county board of supervisors’ Community Service Grants. Critics call it “a slush fund” that’s used to gain political patronage. Where do you stand on this? I maintain it has always

been what its name implies, Community Service Grants. I’ve never seen the grant program or process being abused or misused. It is a sum of money — now capped at a total of $300,000 per year, $60,000 per supervisorial district — that in the past was determined at each supervisor’s discretion. Generally, these grants go toward meeting emergency needs and to small community projects or programs.

The grants program is being reformed. What will the changes accomplish? The intention is to provide more transparency to the process and less discretion on the part of individual supervisors. Starting this year, grant requests will come in and, if receiving “sponsorship” by one or more supervisors, will be reviewed for eligibility by the county administrator’s o ce. I just hope the new system isn’t overly bureaucratic and cumbersome and retains the nimbleness of the prior system that allowed for quick responses to sudden needs for a onetime cash infusion to meet a pressing demand.

In 2010, your predecessor, the late Hal Brown, expressed pride in the progress being made by the Ross Valley Flood Control District. Yet it’s been eight years since the devastating floods of 2005, and still no solution is in sight. Why? I remember Hal saying that after working on the Ross Valley flood control problem for more than 20 years, we were finally making progress. But it’s frustratingly slow. Primarily because major public works projects have to go through exhaustive public and environmental review, and also because the Ross Valley program requires outside grant funding. The good news is that a 10-year capital improvement plan is in place, and progress is being made on the most important element of that plan, the detention basin system. The Ross Valley flood control project is now estimated to cost $130 million. It is a very complex and costly undertaking, and not without challenges. We need to secure additional grants and work through the environmental review process as well as the community opposition that is bound to arise when neighbors are faced with a project in their own backyards.

“ O ur clients leverage our in-depth wealth planning to alleviate concerns about growing and preserving their family’s assets for their lifetime and for future generations. This work has provided clients with predictability and peace of mind so they can enjoy the things they value most in life.

”Tamra A. Stern JD CFP ® , Partner

Floods have occurred in the Ross Valley for more than a century; the last one caused more than $120 million in damages. Everyone should want to get this solved as soon as possible. Yet that isn’t happening. Why? As I stated earlier, a lot of the problems involve funding issues. There’s also the issue of community support. You have to work with the communities being impacted by the solutions, and they have to want to solve the problem. Yes, you’d think everyone would want to solve the flood problem — and philosophically they do. But I think some of them want it solved their way and that means not having the solution involve them. I sure hope it doesn’t take another flood to remind people how important this program is to the entire Ross Valley — but I’m afraid it will.

Which is the greater concern to you, floods or wildfires? They’re both huge concerns; they are the greatest threat to our communities year in and year out. When the fire season ends, the flood season begins — it’s a constant cycle. This past Fourth of July, there was a fire on Mount Tam on the ridge above Mill Valley, Larkspur and Kentfield. It could have spread into any or all of these communities. Fortunately, our guys got up there in time, the winds died and a fuel modification program was in place at the fire location that slowed its spread. We need to have our fire agencies working closely with the major open space land managers like Marin Municipal Water District and Marin Open Space District on fuel modification programs that balance fire protection and environmental protections. We also need the communities at risk — like Kentfield, Larkspur, San Anselmo, Fairfax — to be as prepared as possible for emergencies, have evacuation plans in place and take steps to reduce flood and fire risk. We may lose property, but let’s not lose people.

As a Marin supervisor and a director of the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), what do you think of the highly controversial Plan Bay Area? The level of contentiousness is high because it is complicated and no one likes the idea of top-down government, regardless of where it’s coming from. However, I’m comfortable with Plan Bay Area because Marin’s local control element

remains intact and, although the growth projections handed down to us seem high, they are actually lower than our county’s historical growth rate and frankly quite manageable. Plan Bay Area doesn’t mandate we have to build anything we don’t want to build. And I agree with the principle that if we are going to build, we do it in a smart way and put housing near transit, services and jobs. There are folks who believe and are loudly voicing their views that we have lost local control and Plan Bay Area will turn Marin into another New York City. That’s ridiculous. Plan Bay Area is driven by state legislation designed to reduce greenhouse gases generated by cars and light trucks. It recognizes that transportation funding available in future years will be limited, and so directs that funding first to jurisdictions that grow in ways that help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Final question: Does Marin have a good board of supervisors? I think so. We each are very di erent; we come from di erent backgrounds and have di erent skill sets. Four out of five of us are really, really smart! And the other one (the good looking, youthful one) is faking it well. We all look at things through slightly di erent lenses, and each of us cares deeply about the county and about the communities we serve, so we listen to each other carefully in our deliberations. This board is really good at focusing on issues, and even if we have differences of opinion, they are confined to that issue, votes are cast, and we move on. It’s not personal; it’s about trying to do right by our communities, about getting things done. m

The Tamalpais is a special place to live. Just ask Ruth Davison, who crossed the country to move here! Daughter Jamie, who lives nearby, came to our pool party and loved it. She knew Mom would, too. Now Ruth, the hospitality committee co-chair, enjoys our social events herself, not to mention her freedom from cooking and cleaning. The Tam brought this family together; maybe it could do the same for yours. Call Soussan Cirillo at (415) 464-1755 to learn more.

SCelebratetheseason inthewinecountry.

PHOTOSBYMIMITOWLEBYTIMPORTER

THE HOLIDAYS ARE a time to get together with loved ones and savor the bounty of the harvest. Whether it’s at a potluck in the park or a hosted event catered by a professional chef, the next two months will be full of celebrations of food and wine with family and friends— and what better place to do it than in wine country?

The Family

hosted two

This fall marks the second anniversary of Sonoma County’s Ram’s Gate Winery, a name inspired by the gateway to the Carneros appellation, named after the sheep that once roamed its golden hills (Carneros loosely translates as “ram” in Spanish). For winery partner Je O’Neill and his family, the estate has proved an ideal place to meet for an intimate meal: the winery’s grand main building was the setting for a celebratory Thanksgiving soon after the winery opened and still serves as an elegant venue for wine-centered parties.

No stranger to grape growing, O’Neill was literally born into the industry. His grandfather Arpaxat “Sox” Setrakian started California Growers Winery in 1934 in California’s Central Valley. Although O’Neill grew up in Kentfield and went to Redwood High School, he

remembers spending time as a child watching his grandfather at work. “A fi rst-generation Armenian farmer, he was more of an advocate for the growers in the Central Valley than a wine enthusiast,” O’Neill recalls.

By the mid-1970s CGW had become a force in the burgeoning California wine industry as a major grower and producer of bulk wines. But young Jeff’s ticket to easy street vanished when the company became insolvent in 1981. A few years later, at age 28 and with a business degree from University of the Pacific, he had a meeting at the Four Seasons in San Francisco with investment banker Victor Palmieri, who represented the shareholders of CGW.

“Never surprise me,” warned Palmieri as he o ered Je the chance to step up and lead the family business, which soon became Golden State Vintners. Palmieri’s bet on the new helmsman was validated when the company was sold in 2004. By then it had become the fifth-largest winery in the nation, with sales exceeding $100 million. Today O’Neill runs his own wine production company, O’Neill Vintners and Distillers, based in Larkspur. In short, he knows the wine business, so he was natural choice to serve as front man for the wine-related duties of the Ram’s Gate Winery partnership, which also includes Paul Violich, Michael John and Peter Mullin.

The Property

Drawn by its proximity to the Carneros appellation and to Marin, the partners chose the knoll-top property built in the late ’80s by winemaker Joe Roche and purchased it in 2007. Ram’s Gate Winery opened in September 2010. The project was a fi rst-time collaboration for legendary architect Howard Bracken and internationally acclaimed interior designer Orlando Diaz-Azcuy.

“Their unique design aesthetic had never been put together before,” says O’Neill, “and while there was some resistance from the architect to work with someone new on this large-scale project, with the support of all the partners I brought Orlando in as the interior designer.” The goal was to pay homage to the type of construction that would have existed 150 years ago when shepherds roamed the hills. O’Neill also wanted to create a modern California version of the great wine houses of Europe. “When you travel to Burgundy, you taste these incredible wines that have been wrapped in great architecture and design,” he notes. “We wanted to created the California version of this experience.”

The result is a 22,000-square-foot winery with a great room for entertaining and multiple locations for private wine-centric dinner parties. Diaz-Azcuy planned for such events by designing tables especially for the property,

insisting on finishing the look with chairs covered with Fortuny fabric. The designer’s one request: “ ‘Don’t argue with me about the cost of the chairs,’ ” O’Neill recounts with a laugh. Although Diaz-Azcuy handpicked the decor, a few of the owners’ personal touches made it into the mix, notably a pair of stu ed pheasants from a family trip to Montreal and a sterling silver ram’s-head inkwell (purchased in Scotland by one of the partners) in the spacious library.

The Club

Ram’s Gate is open to the public for tastings and tours; call ahead to make reservations for the wine-and-food pairings that include ingredients fresh from the garden. “We wanted to create the ultimate wine club where anyone would feel comfortable,” says O’Neill, “whether they want to discuss the nuances of di erent varietals for hours with the winemaker or just enjoy a glass of wine and ponder the beauty of the Sonoma Valley.”

Ram’s Gate bottles 5,000 cases a year from growers such as Hyde Vineyard, Hudson Vineyard, Diablo Vineyards, Bush Crispo Vineyard, Durrell Vineyards and Gaps Crown. “If you love Bush Crispo wine, you can come up on the release day or it can be sent to you,” O’Neill says. “We want our members to use this like it’s a home away from home with access to the wine library, property and most of all the wine.”

SDrawn by its proximity to the Carneros appellation and to Marin, the partners chose the knoll-top property built in the late ’80s by winemaker Joe Roche.

We wanted to create the ultimate wine club where anyone would feel comfortable, whether they want to discuss the nuances of different varietals or just enjoy a glass of wine and ponder the beauty of the Sonoma Valley.

Party Tips From Ram’s Gate Winery’s Jenny Martin-Wong

Party Prep

Plan ahead and determine the platters, bowls and serving utensils that will be used for each course you will be serving, and label with Post-it notes.

Determine table linens, glassware, china, etc. and make sure everything is pressed, cleaned and polished in advance. This helps to create a more cohesive and interesting overall design and tablescape, and also removes a lot of party day pressure.

Table Tips

I love to incorporate an array of unique and sometimes unexpected organic elements into my centerpieces, vignettes and food presentations.  I am always collecting interesting seedpods, acorns, branches, and the like when I walk and hike — perfect for fall decorating.

Local farmers’ markets and the garden offer a plethora of great “toys” to play with as you design: squash, gourds, herbs, vegetables, nuts in the shell, the list goes on. Get creative.

Holiday Cooking Tips From Ram’s Gate’s Chef Taylr Behnam

Meat Prep

Use a rub rather than a marinade — that way a beautiful crust will form during the roasting process.

If oven space is an issue, roast your lamb to rare, then put it back in the oven while the turkey is resting.

Turkey Tips

Brine your turkey. You can do this in a giant pot. It’s worth the effort — brining will help the turkey stay moist and flavorful all the way through. You can be creative with your brine and add a variety of herbs and spices.

Season your bird thoroughly on the outside. I put softened butter with fresh herbs, garlic and shallot liberally under the skin. Rub the outside with either homemade aioli or mayonnaise — it creates the most beautiful skin by forming a protective layer that seals in all the juices, and it doesn’t affect the flavor.

Eat Your Veggies

My family loves bacon in their veggies. We usually use Brussels sprouts, baby carrots, baby golden beets and green beans. I cook them on high heat in butter and shallots, then make a pan sauce with bacon, bacon drippings, green onion and sherry vinegar. They are to die for.

A basic mixture of shallots, thyme, butter and white wine is another great way to jazz up your veggies.

GRATITUDE

With the season of gratitude upon us, we tend to reflect upon the richness of our own lives and how we might help others. Here are five Marin residents who are feeling especially grateful as we head into the holiday season.

BY LAURA HILGERS • PHOTOS BY SHOOT HOUSE STUDIOS

ERIC HOLM

ASK ERIC HOLM about his guide dog, Ford, and he sounds like an insu erably proud parent. “He’s just amazing,” says Holm. “I mean, I know they all are, but Ford is mine.”

Holm, who su ers from retinal dystrophy, had been legally blind for many years before he contacted San Rafael’s Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB). And he did so then partly for social reasons. “I was using the white cane, and it was a good tool, but it’s rather isolating,” says the retired federal government employee. “When you’re walking, people avoid you, for all the right reasons.”

In 2006, Holm went through GDB’s training program and was paired with his enthusiastic yellow Lab. “It was a life changer in that he’s a great companion,” says Holm. Together they travel to Washington, D.C., New York and Los Angeles — often. “Ford makes the trip fun and the fl ight attendants always pay attention to him,” Holm says. “It’s the opposite of the white cane because people want to approach you, sometimes too much, but it’s much more pleasant.”

He was so enthusiastic about the experience that he joined GDB’s speakers’ bureau. Eventually, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger appointed Holm to the state Board of Guide Dogs for the Blind, and he’s now president.

GDB’s greatest strength is its matchmaking abilities, he says: “In my graduating class, there were 12 students, and every one of us thought we were getting the best dog. To be able to do that is just magical.”

GDB provides its services for free to all U.S. and Canadian residents, relying entirely on private donations. guidedogs.com

I was using the white cane, and it was a good tool, but it’s rather isolating.

ERICKA CORTEZ

SAN RAFAEL STAY-AT-HOME mom Ericka Cortez dreamed of starting her own housecleaning business, whose schedule would allow her to spend time with her daughters after school. She took business classes with the Women’s Initiative and was progressing nicely — until she had to write a 20-page business plan. That’s when she discovered that her computer skills, acquired in Mexico years earlier, were no longer viable. So she turned to the Technology Training program at Canal Alliance. Weekly sessions helped her master Windows XP and learn how to navigate the Internet. “I hadn’t had a chance to work on the Internet in Mexico,” she says, “so that was totally new for me.”

After taking all three classes o ered for six to 11 weeks each, Cortez received a voucher toward purchase of a refurbished computer for $50 at San Rafael’s Renew Computers. “I’m going to use it to make my own fl iers and business cards,” she says. “I’m also going to advertise on Craigslist and have my own Web page.”

Happily, the computer also helps her stay abreast of what’s happening at her daughters’ schools. “Before, the teachers were sending email to parents, but I was one of the parents who didn’t have email,” she notes.

Now that her youngest is starting preschool, Cortez is also preparing to start her own business. “I’m entering a new stage in my life, and Canal Alliance has been great because they gave me the information I needed. I’m really excited.”

You can support Canal Alliance’s e orts to teach computer and language skills to low-income immigrants by making donations or volunteering your time. canalalliance.org

Before, the teachers were sending email to parents, but I was one of the parents who didn’t have email.

LARKSPUR RESIDENT SUZAN Hampton had walked by the Brain Injury Network of the Bay Area (BINBA) in Larkspur many times before she found the courage to walk in. She was su ering speech and memory problems, as well as acute stress disorder, from the encephalitis (inflammation caused by a virus) she had contracted in September 2012. She didn’t want to admit she had a brain injury. But when her dad came to visit at Christmas, he refused to leave until she walked in BINBA’s door. Good thing, too. “My life changed for the better the moment I did,” says Hampton. “I was greeted warmly by people who totally understood what I was going through.”

Hampton joined the weekly Brain Injury Survivors’ Support Group and met other people struggling with similar issues. She found information about her brain’s healing process and, she says, “I felt normal for the fi rst time in months. I felt like I was no longer alone.”

To help her regain cognitive and memory skills, BINBA gave her a scholarship to participate in on-site computer training. Hampton’s five months of training helped her enormously, preparing her to return to work. She now works part-time at a gardening store while pursuing her ambition of becoming a landscape architect. “I truly feel like BINBA gave me my life back,” she says.

BINBA has been helping brain injury survivors and their families for 30 years with support groups, classes and day programs. Donations help provide these for free or at low cost to those in need. binba.org

I was greeted warmly by people who totally understood what I was going through.

SUZAN HAMPTON

NOVATO MOM MARIANNE Lambrecht had tried for some time to find a good therapist for her 13-year-old son, Frederick. He was acting out at school and needed help dealing with challenging emotions. “But when you’re on Medi-Cal and you go to therapy, you usually get an intern at the end of his or her training who leaves after six months,” she notes.

It was frustrating, until she met Dr. Richard Leary, the sta psychologist at the Marin City Health and Wellness Center. She’d previously gone to doctor’s appointments at the clinic, cofounded by Mill Valley physician Curtis Robinson, and was impressed. But when she found Leary, she was “just thrilled.”

Frederick started seeing Leary once a week about a year ago and has stuck with him ever since. He’s received more than just consistency: “Dr. Leary is very good at what he does,” says Lambrecht. “He really talks to kids on their own level and Frederick is always excited to see him.”

Since Frederick started working with Leary, the teen’s school behavior has calmed dramatically. On one occasion when Frederick saw trouble brewing, he contacted the clinic right after school, and Leary called him back in 20 minutes. “Frederick was ready to change,” says Marianne. “He just needed some guidance.”

Marianne could not be more grateful. “I want to be a good parent and give my kids the things they need,” she says. “With the clinic, I’m now able to do that.”

The Marin City Clinic provides medical, dental and psychological services to patients regardless of ability to pay and can always use donations . marincityclinic.com

LAMBRECHT

MICHAEL BLUESTEIN

AS A KEYBOARDIST for the band Foreigner, Michael Bluestein was on the road a lot, and his diet sometimes suffered. When he was diagnosed with stage-three colorectal cancer in May 2012, however, he knew that eating well was a key to recovery.

He was able to cook for himself, and his wife and mom helped, but the radiation treatments and accompanying fatigue left him little time for it. So he turned to the Ceres Project of Marin, whose brochures he’d discovered at the Rohnert Park Cancer Center. Project members cook healthy organic meals and deliver them to patients with cancer. Local teens do the prep work, so Ceres has a twofold mission: the kids are also learning about nutrition and cooking.

Bluestein received a bagful of meals every Thursday evening for six months; the food was always “superfresh and original,” he adds. A typical meal: a restaurant-worthy roasted wild salmon over lentils with sautéed spinach and red orache.

It was easy to stick to the nondairy, red-meat-free menu when the food tasted so good, he adds. And the nourishment helped him heal. Bluestein returned to work with Foreigner in May and recently had an all-clear CT scan. “I had already had a consciousness around eating well,” he says. “But Ceres really helped me along that path.”

Since 2010, the Marin Ceres chapter has served 20,000 free meals to cancer patients and their families. It always needs funds to continue this service. marin.ceresproject.com

I had already had a consciousness around eating well, but Ceres really helped me along that path.

THESYSTEMwork Making

LegalAidofMarinhelpstheunderservedwithhousing, employment,consumerandfamilylaw.

ONCE A MONTH, the St. Vincent de Paul dining hall in San Rafael becomes Marin Community Court. Over just a few hours, as many as 50 homeless or very-low-income people sit across the table from Judge Beverly Wood and work out alternative sentences for infractions such as sleeping in cars or exceeding the speed limit. Legal Aid of Marin started the award-winning program with Marin County Superior Court and St. Vincent’s in 2011.

For Judge Wood, who, like the bailiff, court clerk and attorneys, donates her time, community court offers a more meaningful way to get at the root of the problems that land lowincome people in court.

“The idea of fining a homeless individual for sleeping in his or her car seems pretty silly,” Wood says. “Giving individuals an opportunity to actually resolve their legal matters, and have them end up in even a slightly better position as a result, is much more rewarding.”

opportunity to avoid trial by resolving their disputes informally and forging court-approved settlements.

On a recent Thursday afternoon, Anne Brush of Novato came to her mandatory settlement conference hoping to stop her landlord from evicting her. Brush was already looking for a new place to live after a dispute over how the rent was paid. But an eviction record can make it difficult for tenants to rent a new home. After consulting in the hall with volunteer attorney Bob Sammis, Brush went before the judge and agreed on terms that satisfied both her and the landlord. The trial was canceled.

Giving individuals an opportunity to actually resolve their legal matters, and have them end up in even a slightly better position as a result, is much more rewarding.

Wood’s favorite community court memory is the case of a man who had accrued so many tra c tickets he lost his driver’s license — then received more tickets for driving on a suspended license. After converting his fines to community service, he brushed up his résumé. “He got a job and came to his last court appearance with $400 in his pocket — which he donated to St. Vincent’s,” Wood says.

Community court is just one way Legal Aid of Marin helps low-income clients defend their legal rights in a place where it’s not easy to be poor.

“When the community thinks of Legal Aid of Marin, they think of us taking on cases and potentially going to court and suing people — and that’s not really what we do,” says executive director Paul S. Cohen. Instead, the nonprofit organization spends most of its time counseling people on their rights in areas including housing, employment, and consumer and family law. “The goal is to educate people so they know they should not be taken advantage of,” Cohen says.

Sometimes that goal takes Legal Aid of Marin attorneys to rural outposts. This year, the organization helped hold legal clinics in San Geronimo, Tomales and Point Reyes Station; sometimes its lawyers visit the Mill Valley Senior Center and Whistlestop to help residents with estate planning.

Much of the organization’s work goes on right across the road from its San Rafael headquarters, at the Marin County courthouse, where it collaborated with the court to establish mandatory pre-trial settlement conferences for eviction cases. These conferences give landlords and tenants the

Brush left the court smiling. “My main concern is getting rid of the eviction,” she said.

Judges like the mandatory settlement conferences too — and not just because they help clear the court schedule by canceling 80 percent of landlord/ tenant trials. “If they go to trial, it can lead to dire consequences for the tenants,” says Judge Paul Haakenson, who presided over Brush’s settlement conference.

Clients in my field are often misled into thinking that every injury is worth a large amount of money because they have read in the newspaper about some high award or settlement.

Redirect

HThree Marin attorneys weigh in on important legal questions and misconceptions.

IRING AN ATTORNEY is a little bit like having a baby: You may only do it a few times in life, and when the time comes you may realize you don’t know what you’re doing. Attorney advertising on television, lawyer portrayals in movies and on TV, and stories on the Internet just confuse us with hyperbole and stereotypes. So we sat asked Marin attorneys who specialize in different legal areas to put together a basic picture of what to expect when you consult a lawyer.

OUR PANEL

Christina Sherman, family law attorney The Sherman Law Office theshermanlawoffice.com

Walter “Skip” Walker, plaintiff’s personal injury attorney Walker, Hamilton and Koenig whk-law.com

Susan Angel, estate and real estate attorney Law Offices of Susan Marchant Angel angelattorney.com

How does one find a good attorney?

WW: The best way to find a good lawyer is to ask other people, particularly those who have had firsthand experience using the services of lawyers.

SA: In California, you can go on the website of the state bar (calbar.ca.gov) and look up any attorney, including info on when they joined the bar and any disciplinary record. Always be sure you are using an attorney who practices in the type of law you need — no attorney can be expert in all areas of law.

Is it ever OK to use Nolo or other self-help services instead of hiring an attorney?

CS: Although there may be some areas of the law where selfhelp services can save money, family law is not one of them, because there are many nuances of family law. In fact, I have seen cases where using a self-help service ended up costing much more money than it saved. In one instance, a woman came into my o ce who had drafted her own marital settlement agreement, wherein she directed her 401(k) be split equally with her ex-husband, even though that division wasn’t required since they were only married for five years.

Once the woman realized her mistake, it was too late.

SA: I think it is best to use Nolo and Internet sites to inform oneself about legal issues generally, but hire an attorney to actually draw up any documents — you will save on legal fees by knowing enough to know what you want, so the attorney does not have to educate you from scratch about a legal issue.

I do not suggest using any Internet or Nolo products to create your will unless you have few assets and no real estate and want a straightforward disposition of your estate. And a trust is a very complex document you should never try to do yourself — when it comes to any plan for the disposition of your estate, it won’t be known whether it accomplishes your goals until you are dead, at which time it is too late to change it, so it is much too risky to try to do it yourself.

What are common misconceptions that people have about what a lawyer can do for them?

WW: Clients in my field are often misled into thinking that every injury is worth a large amount of money because they have read in the newspaper about some high award or settlement. But the only reason that award or settlement was in the news was because it was news — in other words, it was unusual.

SA: Lots of people think that if they threaten to sue someone, that person will immediately back down. This is especially true when they are annoyed at a company — all the time I hear, “Let’s threaten to sue them; they will settle because they can’t stand the publicity.” But you would be amazed how little the big companies are “afraid of publicity.” They have big sta s of attorneys who have plenty of work every day defending the company against claims.

How does payment work?

CS: Typically, I engage in hourly contracts, although a fair amount of my business is flat fee.

WW: I am a plaintiff’s personal injury lawyer and all the work I do is on a contingency basis, which basically means it is all free to the clients. We only get paid if we get a recovery for the clients, in which case we get a percentage of what they get. If there is no recovery, we do not get paid. Also, we advance all costs on behalf of our clients, and that sometimes can amount to $100,000 or more.

SA: We do most of our work on flat fees, quoted in advance, so you would know exactly what it will cost before you commit to us representing you. C.K.

When it comes to disputes, many find that working with a neutral third party can save time, money and relationships.

WLet’s Talk About It

HEN ATTORNEY STEVEN Rosenberg branched out into mediation in the early 1990s, he thought it would constitute a small part of his work.

But he quickly found mediation, in which people settle disputes with the help of a neutral third party instead of in the courtroom, to be far more rewarding than litigation. He saw business partners, parents and other disputing parties walk out the door on speaking terms, instead of dwelling on bitter testimony. His clients who reached an agreement also spent about 90 percent less money and time than they would have if they’d gone to trial.

“I saw that in all kinds of cases, mediation was a much better solution,” Rosenberg says. He closed his 20-year-old conventional law practice and became a full-time mediator.

It was around that time that Marin County Superior Court began requiring parties in all civil cases to try settling out of court with a mediator or arbitrator. Nowadays, most courts everywhere have alternative dispute resolution programs.

“A trial is a big drain on the court’s resources, and the more cases we can settle [with ADR], the better,” says Charles Litchfield, executive vice president of Resolution Remedies, Marin’s largest alternative dispute resolution firm, which handles cases from all over the Bay Area.

On any given day in Resolution Remedies’ San Rafael headquarters, as many as three separate mediation or arbitration sessions are settling cases involving issues as diverse as child custody, personal injury and property rights.

The parties in a dispute typically meet with a mediator in a conference room, then may split o into separate smaller rooms with their attorneys to hash out the details for an acceptable settlement. The mediator may move from room to room, carrying messages and helping the parties come up with a solution they can agree on.

Disputes that might have taken weeks or months to decide on in court can sometimes be wrapped up in a single day. Mediators encourage the parties to remain in the session until they are ready to sign an agreement. “We’ve stayed until 1 and 2 in the morning sometimes, we’ve even ordered dinner, just to allow the people to stay here and continue working toward resolution,” Litchfield says.

Other times, mediation takes longer because discovery (fact-finding or producing of evidence) is needed. The parties may commission a land survey or seek information from experts. But unlike in a trial, both sides can share the cost for one expert instead of each side hiring its own, Rosenberg says.

Other advantages of mediation over trials: negotiations are confidential and remain o the public record, and the proceedings happen on a mutually agreed-upon schedule.

Rosenberg, who now teaches mediation as well as operating his Mill Valley practice, has found that mediation helps people resolve what’s really bothering them, which often turns out to involve emotional matters the courts are not equipped to deal with. “I’ve had lawyers say that it was like magic, when it was simply listening and understanding the client’s underlying issue,” Rosenberg says. C.K. m

HANSON BRIDGETT LLP

80 E. Sir Francis Drake Boulevard • Larkspur, CA 94939 415.925.8400 • www.hansonbridgett.com

HANSON BRIDGETT LLP IS A LEADING SAN FRANCISCO LAW FIRM with a long term commitment to serving the North Bay community. From our Larkspur o ce, our North Bay attorneys deliver a suite of services tailored to the needs of the Marin and Sonoma business communities. We negotiate win/win entitlement solutions for the North Bay’s premiere developers. We prepare complex estate plans for North Bay families. We provide corporate and securities counseling to the North Bay’s emerging businesses. And we represent some of the North Bay’s largest public entities. Our Larkspur based attorneys are members of your community and committed to its success. We participate in planning for the future as members of the North Bay Council. We provide legal assistance to the needy through the Legal Aid of Marin and the Marin Bar Association. We represent your PTO Boards. We are privileged to have the opportunity to serve you and understand that with that privilege comes a significant responsibility to give back in whatever ways we can.

WALKER, HAMILTON & KOENIG, LLP

50 Francisco Street, Suite 460 • San Francisco, CA 94133

415.986.3339 • www.whk-law.com

WALKER, HAMILTON & KOENIG, LLP, IS A LAW FIRM SPECIALIZING IN PLAINTIFF’S PERSONAL INJURY AND WRONGFUL DEATH CASES. All three partners are long-time Marin residents and all three are elected members of the prestigious American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA).

Pete Koenig, a recognized expert in recreational liability, was born and raised in the County and is a graduate of Marin Catholic, U.C. Berkeley, and USF Law School. Tim Hamilton, also a native Californian, recently secured one of the highest private motorist settlements in County history. Walter “Skip” Walker is a fellow in the American College of Trial Lawyers and the International Academy of Trial Lawyers, which is restricted to the top 500 trial lawyers in the United States. He has been a fi nalist for both California and San Francisco trial lawyer of the year and is the author of six novels, including Crime of Privilege, which recently was the top selling work of fiction in Marin according to the Independent Journal

The fi rm takes a creative approach to litigation and is dedicated to the welfare of our clients. We have had a direct hand in changing the law in California to the betterment of consumers, we have a long record of seven-figure verdicts, and we are committed to obtaining maximum settlement value for the people whom we represent. We invite you to consult with us on any matter of personal injury and wrongful death litigation. We promise you a warm reception, a sympathetic ear, and a warrior’s mentality.

SERVING THE COMMUNITY FOR 25 YEARS.

THE DOLAN LAW FIRM/CHRIS DOLAN

San Francisco, Oakland and Sacramento

415.421.2800 • www.DolanLawFirm.com

TRIAL LAWYER CHRIS DOLAN SAYS, “MY OFFICES ARE IN SAN FRANCISCO, OAKLAND AND SACRAMENTO, BUT MY HEART IS IN MARIN.” Dolan lives with his family between San Rafael and his 20 acre ranch (pictured) in Nicasio. The Dolan Law Firm specializes in representing people in the areas of personal injury, civil rights violations, employment discrimination/ harassment, product failures, government road defects, etc. A Marin resident since 1997, Dolan says he fi nds Marin to be a place where he can leave behind his warrior’s mentality and get out and work with his hands, hike with his family, drive his old 47 Chevy Thriftmaster or just sit and talk with some friends at Toby’s Feed Barn. “I spend so much of my energy fighting for everyday people against major insurance companies, corporations and governmental agencies, I need a place to go and just be.” Dolan tried his fi rst lawsuit in Marin County Superior Court in 1996 on behalf of a motorcyclist critically injured at the Bolinas Y because CalTrans had negligently maintained the controversial intersection. Dolan won the case leading CalTrans to put up intersection warning signs (“nothing that says Bolinas!”) and to step up their vegetation maintenance. He has handled hundreds of cases in Marin, and throughout California, since. Dolan says; “I live here and care about my neighbors: people know that about me. I’m the best lawyer I hope you’ll never need.”

Dolan’s accomplishments have led to statewide and national recognition including the Trial Lawyer of the Year for California and San Francisco, California Lawyer Attorney of The Year, a Top 100 Lawyer in California, one of The Best Lawyers in America, The Civil Justice Award, and he is rated as Preeminent in his field in ethics and ability. He was elected to serve as the President of the Consumer Attorneys of California, the state’s Bar Association for Trial Lawyers.

KEEGIN HARRISON

1000 Fourth Street, Suite 600 • San Rafael, CA 94901 415.456.4000 • www.keeginharrison.com

KEEGIN HARRISON | SCHOPPERT SMITH & KARNER LLP HAS BEEN PROVIDING EXCEPTIONAL LEGAL SERVICES FOR 50 YEARS. The fi rm’s practice emphasizes real estate and land use, mergers and acquisitions, corporate and entity structuring, business and real estate litigation and alternative dispute resolution, estate planning and administration, employment and labor law, and intellectual property. While many of Keegin Harrison’s lawyers have benefitted from large-fi rm experience, the fi rm’s size and Marin County location allow it to provide services more cost-e ectively and responsively than its large-fi rm competitors.

The fi rm’s M&A practice group has successfully closed large and complex transactions for many years. Its litigation attorneys have expertise in both trials and ADR, and have an established record of concluding disputes successfully and cost-e ciently. Keegin Harrison is also well known for its expertise in land-use planning, employment law, and estate planning. Its broad range of services allows the fi rm to serve most clients in every aspect of their legal needs. Its attorneys deeply value professionalism and client service, and have been repeatedly recognized by their peers for providing high-quality legal services.

Keegin Harrison’s clients include businesses, individuals, public agencies and nonprofit organizations throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. The fi rm also regularly represents national and international clients on California legal matters. The Keegin Harrison lawyers are involved in the Marin community, holding elected and appointed positions in local government as well as leadership positions in local nonprofit organizations and in the local bar association.

YOUR PROBLEM SOLVED.

KATE WARNER CONSTRUCTION LAWYER

IN 2006 LONG-TIME SAN ANSELMO RESIDENT AND CURRENT MARIN CATHOLIC FRESHMAN BOYS BASKETBALL COACH, DENNIS STRAZULO, established Strazulo Fitzgerald, a boutique law fi rm specializing in management side employment law. Marin residents Julie Marquis and Lisa Gorman, active community members in San Rafael and Larkspur, helped the San Franciscobased fi rm grow into national prominence with Strazulo manning the operation from a modest, downtown San Anselmo loft-style o ce laden with Grateful Dead memorabilia. The hard work of the Marin trio paid o in June when Strazulo Fitzgerald merged its operation with nationally recognized Freeman Mathis & Gary, a specialty litigation and employment law firm based in Atlanta. Freeman Mathis & Gary’s West Coast offices - located in San Francisco and Southern California, with their local attorneys maintaining the San Anselmo outpost - are poised to serve Marin employers with personal attention fortified with over 50 attorneys and a national bandwidth.

For more information about FMG, contact West Coast Managing Partner, Dennis Strazulo @ 415-394-9500, or visit www.fmglaw.com.

Three Embarcadero Center, 8th Floor • San Francisco, CA 94111 415.394.9500 • www.fmglaw.com

WITH 30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE HANDLING ALL TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION CLAIMS AND DISPUTES, Kate Warner has built solid, top industry relationships; is positioned to quickly assemble a targeted team of experts; and achieve the best possible outcomes. Believing that resources should be invested in construction instead of disputes, she quickly, candidly and accurately provides practical and e cient solution options, targeting the factual support necessary for insurance coverage, funding and critical litigation strategies. She’s an invited member of: WestCon, California’s leading construction consultant’s organization; FEWA (Forensic Expert Witness Association); AGC (Associated General Contractors); and the Marin Builders Exchange.

Project Tips for Owners and Builders: CONTRACTS: Don’t be intimidated by forms! The law says they’re a meeting of the minds, so READ them, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to make changes BEFORE signing. If the other parties balk, consider that a red fl ag.

INSURANCE: Send the construction contract(s) to the broker to assure the work scope is covered, and determine the insurer’s claims handling reputation.

1005 A Street, Suite 312 • San Rafael, CA 94901 415.457.7977 • www.katewarnerlaw.com

WILLIAM VEEN, THE VEEN FIRM, P.C.

711 Van Ness Ave., #220 • San Francisco, CA 94102

415.673.4800 • www.VeenFirm.com

WHEN BILL VEEN FIRST HUNG HIS SHINGLE IN 1975, he had one desk, a budget of $5,000, and one attorney on his team — himself. Thirty-eight years later, The Veen Firm has expanded to include thirteen hand-picked, highly skilled attorneys who together form three powerful trial teams. The trial team approach is what enables The Veen Firm to take on the large cases, advocating for their clients in a way that a single attorney never could. This unorthodox approach to law is a direct reflection of Bill himself.

As a young man, Bill Veen could be seen racing around East Detroit with his motorcycle gang, Satan’s Chau eurs. His desire to represent those who wound up on the wrong side of life led Bill to law school at the University of Michigan. “Because of my background, I’ve always felt empathy for people who took a wrong turn,” points out Veen. After nearly four decades of practicing law, Bill now spends more time on a mountain bike than on a motorcycle, but he hasn’t strayed much from that wild-eyed young man. His passion for helping the little guy has never faded. “For people who have been catastrophically injured, we can’t change what happened,” says Bill. “We can, however, help our clients through their devastation. We fight to give them the power to put their lives back together, to heal and to provide for their families.”

A Tradition of Service. A Commitment to Excellence.

A new home, effective October 1, for one of Marin’s oldest and most respected law firms.

For more than four decades the attorneys of Ragghianti Freitas have provided high quality legal services to clients in Marin County, the Bay Area and beyond. Our attorneys are active in the community as well as recognized leaders in their chosen fields of practice. We offer a wide range of expertise to our clients, and do so with competency, integrity and dedication.

PRACTICE AREAS

> BUSINESS + TRANSACTIONS

> EMPLOYMENT + LABOR

> ESTATE PLANNING + TAX

> LITIGATION + APPELLATE

> MEDIATION

> MUNICIPAL LAW

> REAL ESTATE + LAND USE

Resolution Remedies provides quality personal service for our clients. Large national ADR companies cannot always deliver individualized personal attention, while unaffiliated “solo” neutrals cannot effectively provide all ADR services. ResRem bridges that gap, affording a full spectrum of ADR services while operating on a local basis customized to each case and each client.

ResRem can help you resolve your dispute regardless of whether a lawsuit has been filed or attorneys have been retained. Often the sound counsel of our seasoned mediators can resolve an issue like a neighbor dispute before the added expense of attorneys and litigation becomes necessary.

Resolution Remedies Professional Dispute Resolution

THE PROCESS

Resolution Remedies is Marin’s foremost provider of Alternative Dispute Resolution (“ADR”) services, which seek to resolve legal disputes outside the court. Though many forms exist, mediation is the most prevalent form of ADR. During a mediation, the mediator will work to facilitate communication between the parties, identify and reframe the issues, and find creative solutions to settle the dispute. The second most common form of ADR is arbitration. It is not uncommon to see mediation and arbitration clauses in nearly every business document today, and ResRem has the most qualified mediators and arbitrators in Marin who can accept these mediations and arbitrations even if the clause mentions the rules of another provider, like JAMS or AAA.

SERVICE

As an attorney-owned and operated ADR service, ResRem understands the needs of practicing attorneys and clients, and we strive to tailor our services to those needs. Our innovative approach to dispute resolution is reflected in our implementation of technology to assist with the ADR process. In addition to whiteboards, computers, and flat screen monitors, each of our conference rooms is equipped for video web-conferencing. This technology can help overcome distance, reflected in the time and the cost of travel, while streamlining the process and making it easier to work around scheduling conflicts. Our dedication to client satisfaction is seen in every step of the process.

THE PANEL

Our panel of retired superior court judges and distinguished attorneys is dedicated to the practice of Alternative Dispute Resolution. Every retired judge in Marin County who wishes to continue working is on the Panel at ResRem, along with several prominent Marin and San Francisco attorneys, making Resolution Remedies the premier forum for arbitration in Marin. Each of our panel members has received specialized training in alternative dispute resolution techniques, and has the experience, substantive knowledge and time that leads to success in ADR. Each “Neutral” has met stringent requirements for admission to the panel, so rest assured that any Neutral you choose will be thoroughly experienced and skilled in dispute resolution.

RESULTS

Simply put, we get the job done. Our credentialed and well-respected panel boasts an exceptional success rate. If you need any further proof, please feel free to consult our client testimonials at resrem.com

Deana is personally committed to our

She offered my group new insights and expertise that helped us to better grow our practice. Given her background, she is uniquely qualified to help and motivate our attorneys. She brings out the best in us.

As an attorney for over 30 years, Renée R. Chernus has been helping families in Marin resolve legal matters promptly and fairly. Her practice is devoted to the legal issues involved in a divorce, including property division, child and spousal support, child custody and related issues. She guides each client through their case, helping to separate emotion from the process of creating a reasonable solution.

•Certifid by the California State Bar as a family law specialist

•Fellow in the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers

•Northern California Super Lawyers from 2005-2013

•Awarded an AV Preeminent® Peer Review Rating from Martindale-Hubbell

www.chernus.com l (415) 455-8081 p l (415) 258-0681 f 100 Smith Ranch Road, Suite 122, San Rafael, CA 94903

L Litchfield Law Group

Destinations

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

ALL TOGETHER NOW

BY MIMI TOWLE

OH, THE JOYS of the family reunion. Dicey dynamics, long-seeded competitions, new spouses to meet — sounds like a plot for the next Hollywood holiday blockbuster. But have that annual, biannual or quadrennial event at a sandbetween-the-toes kind of place, and suddenly it’s much more like a day at the beach. Of families polled by Reunions Magazine, 68 percent started planning their big meet at least a year in advance, and as many as 20 percent put two years into the task. And while some opt to gather in an ancestral hometown, more than 74 percent prefer to check out a brand-new place. We asked Marin families about their favorite family reunion spots (if you have one to suggest, let us know); here are six beach destinations that got the thumbs-up.

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

This grande dame of Hawaiian hospitality has welcomed families from around the world since it opened in 1965, and Heidi Blake has been going there as long as she can remember. “My grandparents went to the Mauna Kea when it opened and have hosted family gatherings

there for decades,” she says. Aware of the expense for such a trip, Blake arranged an anniversary celebration for her grandparents wherein all relatives paid their own way and chipped in on a room for the couple. “My favorite memory of this get-together was walking along the beach with my grandmother, something I’ve done my entire life, and thanking her as an adult for all of the trips they had hosted,” she adds. “Between family trips and weddings, it seems we got to this beach at least every few years, and I just don’t think we would all be as close if we hadn’t taken this time out of our busy lives throughout the years.” LOCATION Big Island of Hawaii ROOMS 258 FEATURES 18-hole golf course, 11-court Seaside Tennis Club, several kids’ programs, six on-site restaurants, beach services, complimentary yoga and tropical spa treatments. DETAILS Rooms start at $535. maunakeabeachhotel.com

Fairmont Orchid

When Kyle Peyton started making arrangements for her small family reunion on Hawaii Island last year, she had no idea she was sharing an arrival date with tropical storm Flossie. Hearing the news and faced with possible airport closures, she had to switch to an earlier timetable. “We were lucky to get last-minute rooms at the gorgeous Fairmont Orchid,” she says, “and what an experience it was: huge, spacious, tastefully decorated — this luxurious resort on the ocean opened to the sea and exuded aloha spirit.” She also liked the poolside breakfast bu et and the on-site Brown’s Beach House, one of the island’s finest restaurants. “One day wasn’t enough; I’d spend my entire vacation here next time,” she adds. It was hard to leave this newfound paradise and check in at the VRBO condo units she’d originally booked online: “We were perfectly comfortable, but I had been spoiled by the Fairmont.” The family took lots of day trips to explore the island, including a jaunt to Hapuna Beach and an outing with Kohala Zip Lines. They discovered the little town of Hawi with its quintessential old-Hawaii charm: lush palm trees, tropical flowers, plantation houses, sparkling sun. Farther north, they parked the car at the verdant Pololu Valley Lookout and took the steep hike down to the valley floor and a secluded black-sand beach. Afterward, seeking cold beer and food, “we found just what we were looking for back in

Hawi — Bamboo Restaurant, an old historic sugar plantation hotel from the early 1900s, now a lively restaurant and bar serving fresh, creative island-style cuisine.” LOCATION Big Island of Hawaii ROOMS 540 FEATURES 36-hole golf course, 10-court tennis center, Keiki Aloha children’s program, eight on-site restaurants, 24-hour fitness center, spa and cultural hikes. DETAILS Rooms start at $749. fairmont.com/orchid-hawaii

Hyatt Regency Maui

The Cooks have been traveling to the Hyatt Regency Maui for years, and when it came time to reconnect with all the relatives, Della Cook started planning a full year ahead to find a date when everyone could attend. “We’ve come to the Hyatt as a couple and thought it would be a great place for a reunion,” she says. They booked 10 mountainview rooms instead of the pricier oceanfront,

using the money saved to rent a large cabana by the pool so the kids could have snacks, water and shade all day. “We had one dinner at Japengo and a private dinner in the Statue Garden — it was expensive, but well worth it,” she adds. “We also attended the Hyatt’s luau, where my granddaughter danced onstage.” There was something for everyone: the younger children played in the kids’ pool while the older kids went down the slide and swam. The older children also went o -site to parasail, ride bikes down Haleakala crater, zip-line, surf and jet-ski. On the property, “the resident penguins and the exotic birds intrigued everyone, and of course I spent a lot of time shopping at the Macy’s in the hotel,” says Cook. “There were special goodies in each room from the hotel. We truly felt like royalty.” LOCATION Maui ROOMS 806 FEATURES Two golf courses, four tennis courts, four on-site restaurants, fitness center, spa, salon,

and lei-making and hula demonstrations. DETAILS Rooms start at $259. maui.hyatt.com

Fairmont Kea Lani

The multigenerational Hauser family has a tradition of meeting on the beaches of Hawaii or Mexico, but when they also wanted to help the patriarch celebrate a milestone birthday, the Fairmont Kea Lani was the clear choice. It’s ideal for a family reunion, daughter Robin Hauser Reynolds says — “small enough so the 18 of us felt like we were all together, yet large enough so we could get away for a little bit if we felt like we needed a break.” Amenities include options for all ages, from kids’ pool with slide to beach activities to golf and tennis. “It was easy to leave the young kids behind and have an occasional adult dinner not too far away,” Reynolds adds. “Plus, each of the three-bedroom villas has kitchens and a

private pool — perfect for one or two families to share.” LOCATION Maui ROOMS 450 FEATURES Three championship golf courses, Keiki Lani kids’ club, three on-site restaurants, 24-hour fitness center and spa. DETAILS Rooms start at $519. fairmont.com/kea-lani-maui

La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club

For 15 years in a row as a young girl, Alex Fee traveled to the La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club in San Diego with her entire family. “My fondest childhood memories were of time spent on the beach and tennis courts of LJBTC,” she says. “We would go the same two weeks every summer and meet up with families who were doing the same thing.” She hopes to recapture that feeling soon — “of being in my bathing suit for the entire day and barbecuing every night on the beach” — in a multigenerational stay here with her siblings, parents and all the children. Hotel

guests have access to this otherwise private club and the entire beachfront property, which includes 12 tennis courts, a nine-hole golf course and kids’ club. “I love how the rooms open right to the beach,” says Fee. “It’s just such a unique property. I can’t wait to get back.” LOCATION San Diego ROOMS 90 rooms FEATURES Nine-hole golf course, 12 tennis courts, one on-site restaurant, fitness center, beach services and massage services. DETAILS Rooms start at $277. ljbtc.com

Sea Scape Resort

Deb and Pete Crudo have been assembling with extended family at Sea Scape Resort near Santa Cruz for about a dozen years. “We have about 16 families, two per condo, and most stay for at least two nights,” says Deb, who’s the activity planner in the family. She chose the place for its proximity to the Bay Area, where all the relatives live: “It’s a great

Third and fourth night

turnkey option, close to home. They have so many family-friendly amenities; they will build a bonfire for you, put seats around the fire pit and leave a box with s’more makings. They also have equipment for a variety of sports like softball, volleyball and Frisbee.” The group visits the same weekend every year and has met other families on the same schedule; they now participate together in activities like three-legged races, softball and Frisbee-throwing. For meals, the family skips the main restaurant in favor of a giant potluck with neighbors in adjoining condos. “We plan ahead of time who is cooking what,” Deb says. “It’s really fun. It’s not about luxury, it’s about getting together.”

LOCATION Just south of Santa Cruz ROOMS 285 FEATURES 18-hole golf course, 12 tennis courts, two on-site restaurants, fitness center and in-suite spa services. DETAILS Rooms start at $217. seascaperesort.com m

Honey, Honey

The sweet treat and the bees that make it are creating a sticky splash for travelers.

BY DAWN MARGOLIS DENBERG

THE RAPID AND mysterious decline of honeybees has been on the radar of environmentalists for years. And while scientists scramble to figure out what’s behind it, concerned citizens are helping to repopulate the species by raising colonies on balconies and in backyards. Now the e ort has expanded further: The hospitality industry has taken up the cause, installing hives on hotel and restaurant rooftops and in adjacent outdoor space.

Alan Wong, one of Hawaii’s most celebrated chefs, is among those leading the charge. He teamed up with the University of Hawaii at Hilo to create an adopt-a-beehive program; it currently maintains 30 hives, supports the education of student beekeepers, promotes research on development of healthy beehive practices in Hawaii, and educates the public about the vital role honeybees play in sustaining agriculture. “These hives were all made possible by the generous donors who support the program and its students,” says Wong. A $300 donation, for example, covers the cost of bee care for one hive for one season.

Hoteliers nationwide are following suit. The Carmel Valley Ranch, a 500-acre resort in Carmel, is now home to 60,000 bees and offers regular educational clinics. Adults and children don beekeeping suits and take a hands-on class in bee care that includes honey harvesting, feeding new colonies and adding or removing the chambers where bees store excess honey.

Likewise, the Calistoga Ranch in the Napa Valley, which has been keeping bees for several years, is currently beefing up its e orts; in July it added two new hives for a total of four. “In addition to producing honey, we are noticing benefits such as a flourishing fruit and vegetable garden and an especially large melon production,” says resident beekeeper Steve Ferrini. “The bees play a huge role in pollinating the long, tubular melon flowers that are di cult to pollinate.” Calistoga

Ranch o ers interactive beekeeping demonstrations by appointment and at periodically scheduled events throughout the year.

Even hotels that don’t formally teach people about bees are incorporating harvested honey into amenities for guests. The sweet stu makes its way into kitchens, bars and even the spa; depending on where you stay, you can eat it, drink it or slather it on yourself. Besides superior taste, artisanal honey in its raw form has benefits that are diminished when the product is pasteurized, processed and filtered for the commercial market, Ferrini points out. “It has antibacterial and antiviral properties, boosts your immunity, is a natural cough suppressant, and is believed to possess cancer preventing properties and help with allergies. Needless to say, it’s also delicious.”

Here are a few beekeeping hotels where you can see for yourself what the buzz is about:

CARMEL VALLEY RANCH Carmel, California

Sign up for the 90-minute hive tour and you’ll start the informative session with a glass of lavender-and-honey ice tea and end it sampling honey straight from the hive. If you like honey but fear bees, just pick up a jar at the resort gift shop. Rates start at $325 per night. carmelvalleyranch.com

GRAND WAILEA Wailea, Hawaii

The resort’s nine hives produce about a gallon of honey per month. The spa’s Ali’i Honey

Mango Steam Cocoon treatment harnesses the nutrients of raw rooftop honey. After exfoliation with a mango-sugar blend, your attendant drizzles heated honey over your body and massages it into your skin. Then you’re cocooned and escorted to the eucalyptus steam room, where you relax on cushioned towels and let the mango and honey soak into your skin. Rooms start at $369 per night. grandwailea.com

CALISTOGA RANCH Calistoga, California

The resort’s scenic Lake House restaurant, run by acclaimed chef Christian Ojeda, has put its apiary’s crop to good use in a delicious honey-citrus cake with lavender semifreddo. Lavender and citrus pollinated by resident honeybees are key ingredients. Rooms start at $685 per night. calistogaranch.com

BROWN PALACE Denver, Colorado

This historic hotel, opened in 1892, works with the city’s oldest brewery to create an ultra-small-batch beer known as the Palace Rooftop Honey Saison. The special-edition brew calls for 75 pounds of Brown Palace rooftop honey and is fermented with a blend of four strains of saison yeast. Rooms start at $269 per night. brownpalace.com

LA COSTA RESORT Carlsbad, California

The beekeeping program here has just gotten o the ground, but it’s already produced

enough honey to create a few signature libations. At the resort’s BlueFire Grill, the bartender pairs fresh hive honey with Hennessy, fresh mint and soda to make the Carlsbad Stinger. Rooms start at $269 per night. lacosta.com

W HOTEL San Francisco, California

The W has checked four new bee colonies into its Third Street location, bringing the hive total to 10. The hotel’s signature restaurant, Trace, includes the resulting honey in such menu selections as a wild mushroom and roasted onion flatbread with honey and pancetta. Rooms start at $299 per night. wsanfrancisco.com m

New Zealand

Known as the “land of the long white cloud” by the indigenous Maoris, this diverse island country has something for every type of traveler. BY

BARBARA RIES AND STEPHANIE MARTIN

KIWI FEVER TOOK the Bay Area by storm this past summer when Team New Zealand nearly wrested the America’s Cup away from U.S. waters. The team’s stunning charge at the trophy accompanied by its humble, team-first approach o the water quickly cultivated a fervent following throughout the Bay Area. But it wasn’t just the team that sailed into local hearts. Looking to expand opportunities for Kiwi businesses and attract a new wave of tourism, the country’s trade and enterprise o ce traveled the Bay Area to showcase the bounty of this twoisland nation. Here are four places on each island you won’t want to miss if you visit New Zealand.

THE SOUTH ISLAND

The latest big visitor blitz was a flurry of “Tolkien tourism” sparked by the South Island’s starring role in Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings film trilogy. The similarities between South Island and J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle Earth are unmistakable: waterfalls, burbling brooks, snowcapped peaks and lush forest valleys. A sign welcoming visitors to Glenorchy in Otago, a quiet, picture-perfect hamlet at the mirrored edge of Lake Wakatipu, reads “The Gateway to Paradise.” For Tolkien fans, this says it all.

1 Among the biggest draws on the island is Mount Aspiring National Park and its trailheads leading to several prominent treks, or “tramps,” as the Kiwis say. The Routeburn Track, rated one of the world’s top 10 classic hikes, winds 20 miles over the alps to the Te Anau side and the Milford Sound waterfalls. It has conservation huts (maintained by the provincial district) for backpackers and well-marked trails accessible to day hikers.

2 Considered the Aspen of New Zealand, the Queenstown resort area caters to skiers, kayakers, skydivers, bungee jumpers, jet boaters and those just seeking leisurely

cruises through the waterfalls of Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park. In high season (January and February) Queenstown becomes party central — downtown streets are lined with bars and restaurants — as well as a base for tours to fit any budget, from simple backpacker to luxury explorer.

3 Southwest of the capital city of Christchurch is a formal country estate in Tai Tapu where King George IV was once a guest. Now Otahuna Lodge , this grand Victorian survived incarnations as a Catholic seminary, a commune home and a bed-and-breakfast and now includes seven luxury suites, lovingly restored by Americans Miles Renfro and Hall Canon in 2007. A varied five-course degustation menu served each evening features estateraised lamb, beef, poultry and pork, and garden delicacies, paired with selections from the South Island’s exceptional winemaking regions.

4 Double Hill is a centuries-old sheep and cattle farm open throughout the year. Shearing for merino wool happens in both summer and winter. Visitors are welcome to experience not only sheep-shearing but helicopter tours of nearby mountain glaciers; the largest, Tasman Glacier, o ers views of the country’s highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook.

The similarities between South Island and J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle Earth are unmistakable: waterfalls, burbling brooks, snowcapped peaks and lush forest valleys.

THE NORTH ISLAND

While many travelers use it as a stopover on the way to the South Island, the North Island is resplendent in its own way. Divided by mountain ranges that run through its middle, it features flowing farmlands on either side, as well as the Volcanic Plateau, an active volcanic and thermal area. It’s also the home of bustling Auckland, inhabited by onethird of the country’s 4.5 million population and ranked one of the three most livable cities in the world. You could easily spend weeks exploring all North Island has to o er, but if you are short on time, here are some best bets.

1 New Zealanders consider the Viaduct Basin of Auckland the spiritual home of the America’s Cup. Once su ering from urban decay and neglect, the Viaduct Harbor area got a shot in the arm when the Kiwis brought the Cup home to Auckland in 1995. The result was a completely redeveloped commercial waterfront surrounded by hotels, condominiums and upscale restaurants that was buoyed by the influx of not only international sailing teams but also the growth of the area’s maritime industry. The Viaduct’s newest addition is the Wynyard Quarter, which features more than a mile of coastal footage with an emphasis on open spaces for the public.

2 Well worth a stop in the Wynyard Quarter is the Auckland Fish Market, where you will rub arms with fishermen straight o the boat and restaurateurs getting their daily catch. You can taste what’s fresh in the open-air market and on the sunny patio; while there are many restaurant options, Market Sushi, the cart tucked inside the foyer, has delicious and inexpensive fare.

3 Looking for a great hike? The Rangitoto Island volcanic outcrop, the youngest of the islands surrounding New Zealand at only 700 years old, is a 25-minute ferry ride from Auckland. The favorite hike, to the top of Rangitoto, is an hour-long trek through fire roads and single-track trails that ends with sweeping views of the island, the Hauraki Gulf and Auckland. Be sure to walk the Crater Rim Track and then the Lava Caves, just 15 minutes from the summit, where you can explore tunnels cut by centuries-old lava. Maintained by a trust, the island’s wilderness has no facilities other than restrooms at the ferry dock, so be sure to enough bring water and food for a half-day trip.

4 Though just a 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland, Waiheke Island feels worlds away — home to a vibrant arts and wine community and a slower, more sumptuous way of life. Rent a bike at Auckland’s Ferry Building or just beyond the Waiheke parking lot and pedal o to

Divided by mountain ranges that run through its middle, the North Island features flowing farmlands on either side, as well as the Volcanic Plateau.

one of the island’s 17 vineyards for lunch; the Mudbrick Vineyard has expansive views of Hauraki Gulf. Local olive oil, produced right on the island by the award-winning Rangihoua Estate, is a treat you won’t want to miss. While away the rest of the your day on one of the many beaches; Onetangi is a one-mile stretch of white sand and beautiful water where you can windsurf, stand-up paddleboard or just sit. If you visit near the end of January, check out Sculpture on the Gulf, an exhibit of contemporary outdoor sculpture that dots the breathtaking Waiheke coastline over a 2.5-kilometer walk. m

“Hi! How are you?”

“Ugh, really busy!” “Ridiculously busy!!!!” “SOOOO BUSY!!!!”

Sound familiar? is exchange is happening daily in our homes, our workplaces, and our community gathering spaces– yes, even at our farmers markets, the proverbial promised land of slowing down. No place is sacred when it comes to the pervasive culture of BUSY.

When did we let the state of busy become the mantra that de nes our lives? It’s time to stop the glori cation of busy. What if we used FOOD as our daily reminder to take a breath, be fully present, and express some gratitude? It doesn’t matter where your food is coming from, although we love seeing your shining face. is is bigger than us; this is the health and sanity of our community. Here’s a short list of some things we can all do more of: Cook. Set a table. Chew your food slowly. Avoid grabbing lunch with a computer or dinner with a TV. Toast a glass or say a prayer.

We’re all in this together– yes, we’ve been known to describe ourselves as SOOO BUSY too. Let’s jumpstart a revolution, a peaceful protest of the all-consuming culture of busy, and let it begin with your next bite. Namaste.

Out & About

CALENDAR / ON THE SCENE / DINE

THEATER / COMEDY / MUSIC / GALLERIES / MUSEUMS / EVENTS / FILM EDITED BY CALIN VAN PARIS

GALLERIES

Gallery Bergelli Individual works by Jennifer Li and Nicholas Oberling, through November 7. 483 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur. 415.945.9454, bergelli.com

THEATER

THRU NOV 3 I and

You Two high school students collaborate on a project to deconstruct a poem about the interconnectivity of everything, and they find a connection between themselves along the way. Marin Theatre Company (Mill Valley). 415.388.5208, marintheatre.org

NOV 8–17 The Wizard of Oz The Throckmorton Youth Performers present the beloved story of Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, Dorothy and her little dog, too. Join them as they follow the yellow brick road to meet the Wizard and obtain their heart’s desires. 142 Throckmorton (Mill Valley).

415.383.9600, throck mortontheatre.org

THRU NOV 23

Shocktoberfest 14: Jack the Ripper An evening of theater, horror and song commemorating the 125th Anniversary of the Jack the Ripper murders in London. The Hypnodrome Theatre (SF). 800.838.3006, thrillpeddlers.com

NOV 1–17 A Doll House

Marin Onstage presents the story of Nora, a mother of two, who one day realizes she can never be a good wife or a good mother until she first finds herself. St. Vincent’s (San Rafael). 415.448.6152, marinonstage.org

NOV 2–10 Rapunzel An update of the classic Grimm Brothers fairy

tale about a girl trapped in a lonely tower by an overprotective guardian, with nothing to keep her company except for an amazing head of hair. Marin Theatre Company (Mill Valley). 415.388.5208, marintheatre.org

NOV 21–DEC 15 Jacob Marley’s Christmas

Carol The classic Christmas tale as told through the eyes of Jacob Marley, the ghost of Ebenezer Scrooge’s former business partner. Marin Theatre Company (Mill Valley). 415.388.5208, marintheatre.org

NOV 27–DEC 15 Snoopy

42nd Moon Street presents a holiday treat in the form of Charlie Brown, Lucy, Linus and of course, Snoopy. Watch as the Peanuts gang sing their way through a series of adventures. The Eureka Theatre (San Francisco). 415.255.8207, 42ndstmoon.org

DANCE

ONGOING Israeli Folk Dancing Learn dances that combine Middle Eastern, Eastern

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

NOV 8–16 Give a Woman a Lift Choreographer Jo Kreiter and designer Sean Riley explore the theme "going up" from a feminist perspective in this visually arresting aerial dance. Joe Goode Annex (San Francisco). flyaway productions.com

NOV 12 Get in Front: Benefit for Cancer Prevention Institute of California For the second year in a row, the Bay Area's most celebrated dance companies come together for a one-night-only performance to benefit the Cancer Prevention Institute of California. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts (SF). 415.978.2787, ybca.org

NOV 22 So You Think You Can Dance Season 10 finalists from the popular reality show visit the Bay Area. The Warfield (San Francisco). thewarfieldtheatre.com

NOV 23 Balè Folclórico da Bahia A display of Bahian folkloric dances of African origin performed by a 25-member troupe. The troupe is known for its drumming, frenzied dancing and high energy. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.473.6800, marincenter.org

COMEDY

TUESDAYS Mark Pitta

and Friends

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

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

NOV 2 Big Time Tot Rock Alison Faith Levy, formerly of the Sippy Cups, and her band,

Big Time Tot Rock, play indie pop songs crafted to make kids dance, sing and laugh. Bay Area Discovery Museum (Sausalito). 415.339.3900, baykidsmuseum.org

NOV 3 Omar Sosa AfriLectric Sextet Enjoy a melding of jazz and world music elements as six-time Grammynominated Cuban composer and pianist Omar Sosa brings his fresh, urban sound to Marin. Osher Marin JCC (San Rafael). 415.444.8000, marinjcc.org

NOV 6 Mazzy Star

Performances from the band’s new album, Seasons of Your Day, which features all of the original members of along with some special guests. The Warfield (San Francisco). 415.345.0900, the warfieldtheatre.com

NOV 7 Castro and Click

A night of blues and Americana from two of the most popular groups on the Marin scene as Tommy Castro and the Painkillers and Danny Click and the Hell Yeahs come

‘‘I wish Terrestra were right here in Marin!’’

together for the first time. Osher Marin JCC (San Rafael). 415.444.8000, marinjcc.org

GALLERIES

MARIN

Wish granted.

Ever since Terrestra opened in San Francisco, our loyal Marin County customers have been asking us to open a store on this side of the bridge. We were listening. We’ve found the perfect spot and filled it with thousands of fabulous gifts and everything for creative entertaining. As always, free gift-wrapping. Shipping to anywhere. And our expert staff at your service. Terrestra | San Francisco | Mill Valley

NOV 17 Morgenstern Trio A performance by Catherine Klipfel, Stefan Hempel and Emanuel Wehse, a chamber music ensemble featuring piano, violin and cello (respectively), and named for poet Christian Morgenstern. United Methodist Church (Mill Valley). chambermusic millvalley.org

Art Abloom 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 Bob Nugent: Dialogues with Nature Works inspired by Nugent’s Brazilian travels, specifically along the Amazon River basin, October 25–November 22. 1337 Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.451.8119, artworks downtown.org

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

Lucca, Italy. And now Terrestra, Mill Valley.

You’ve admired them in ne leather shops and museum stores throughout Europe. Now the entire collection of Mywalit handbags and wallets is here at last. Introducing the new Mywalit Store at Terrestra, Mill Valley.

NOV 19 The Concert for Kids A concert for children’s health with proceeds benefitting UCSF Benio Children’s Hospital and Children’s Hospital Oakland. Punk icons Green Day will headline the event. AT&T Park (San Francisco). 415.476.6400, the concertforkids.com

NOV 29 Post Thanksgiving ’80s Dance Party The 85’s with Matt Ja e and the Distractions perform high-energy renditions of decadespecific favorites from Madonna, the Clash, Van Halen and more. This show is sure to get you out of your seat and onto the dance floor. Sweetwater Music Hall (Mill Valley). 415.388.1100, sweet watermusichall.com

NOV 30 Greg Scott

Caldwell Snyder Gallery Works by Rik Van Iersel, November 7–30. 341 Sutter St, San Francisco. 415.392.2299, caldwellsnyder.com

Community Congregational Church Mixed-media exhibit from the National League of American Pen Women, through November 28. Rock Hill Drive, Tiburon. 415.435.9108, ccctiburon.net

Scott is a Bay Area native who has performed with the Platters Motown Review and with multiplatinum recording artists K-Ci and JoJo, as well as at venues across the country. Fenix (San Rafael). 415.813.5600, fenixlive.com

Falkirk Cultural Center Winter Art Extravaganza, a silent art auction fundraiser, November 7–15. 1408 Mission Ave, San Rafael. 415.485.3328, falkirk culturalcenter.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 Route One

Edges and Flows A collection of paintings by Mary Mountcastle Eubank, through December 1. 11101 Hwy One, Point Reyes. 415.663.1347, galleryrouteone.org

Marin Society of Artists 86th annual members show, through November 16. 30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Ross. 415.454.9561, marinsocietyof artists.org

Marine Mammal Center The Ghost Below Inspired by one unsuspecting whale’s deadly diet, this exhibition by Judith and Richard Lang explores the harmful e ects of marine debris,

through December 31. 2000 Bunker Road, Sausalito. 415.289.7325, marinemammal center.org

Mine Gallery BreathingLight A new solo show by local Marin artist Sandra Cohn featuring works that integrate sculptures, salvaged rusted metal pieces and the written word, through December 1. 1820 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Fairfax. 415.755.4472, gallerymine.com

O’Hanlon Center for the Arts Big & Small Submitted work that explores size, November 5–23. 616 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.388.4331, ohanloncenter.org

Choral Concerts by Candlelight

Start your holiday season off with a favorite tradition when our community gathers in the Church of Saint Raphael in San Rafael. Add your voice to the celebration and sing along with our Marin Symphony Chamber Chorus directed by Steven McKersie.

SATURDAY, DEC. 7 @ 7:30 PM

SUNDAY, DEC. 8 @ 4:00 PM

Out & About / CALENDAR

VIPMarin

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Petri’s Fine Arts

Featuring contemporary works in various mediums. 690 Bridgeway, Sausalito. 415.332.2626, petrisfinearts.com

Robert Allen Fine Art Landscapes/Cityscapes

A group exhibition of contemporary works on canvas and panel, through November 29. 301 Caledonia St, Sausalito. 415.331.2800, robertallenfineart.com

Robert Beck Gallery

Early California and quality contemporary plein air paintings. 222 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo. 415.456.7898, beckgallery.org

Robert Green Fine

Arts Abstract expressionist paintings by Sam Francis, John Grillo, Paul Jenkins, Jim Bird and more. 154 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.381.8776, rgfinearts.com

Room Art Gallery

Works by both Bay Area artists and major masters; the largest collection of Picasso, Chagall and others in Marin County. 86 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.380.7940, roomartgallery.com

Seager Gray Gallery

Form and Place An exhibition of sculpture and drawings by artist Jane Rosen and works in kilncast crystal by sculptor Ann Hollingsworth, through November 10. 23 Sunnyside Ave, Mill Valley. 415.384.8288, seagergray.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 Art Work by local artists, classes and workshops with materials included. 1133 Grant Ave, Novato. 415.596.5546, studio4art.net

Throckmorton Theatre Beyond the Clouds A series of paintings by Susan Schneider, through December 1. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.9600, schneiderartworks.com

SAN FRANCISCO

ArtHaus An intimate presentation of diverse works in various styles and mediums by New York and Bay Area artists. 411 Brannan St, 415.977.0223, arthaus-sf.com

Caldwell Snyder Paintings and sculptures by local artists. 341 Sutter St, 415.392.2299, caldwellsnyder.com

Electric Works Works by David Schubert. 1360 Mission St, 415.626.5496, sfelectricworks.com

George Krevsky Gallery Restless Harmony Works by Helen Berggruen, November 7–December 21. 77 Geary St, San Francisco. 415.397.9728, georgekrevsky gallery.com

Gregory Lind Gallery

Dannielle Tegeder: The Library of Abstract Sound New work inspired by Tegeder’s original work of the same name, through November 30. 49 Geary St, 415.296.9661, gregory lindgallery.com

Hackett-Mill Jules

Olitski Colorness: The Early Spray Paintings

1965 to 1969 Works by the abstract artist, through December 20. 201 Post St, 415.362.3377, hackettmill.com

John Berggruen Gallery

Chuck Close: Important Works on Paper from the Past 40 Years An exhibition of work by the American artist Chuck Close, through November 16. 228 Grant Ave, 415.781.4629, berggruen.com

Rena Bransten Gallery

Water Work by Edward Burtynsky, through December 14. 77 Geary St, 415.982.3292, rena branstengallery.com

MUSEUMS

MARIN

Bolinas Museum

Bolinas Museum’s 30 Years of History The museum celebrates its 30th anniversary with an exhibit and works

that look back at its development, through December 31 (Bolinas). 415.868.0330, bolinasmuseum.org

Marin History Museum

An Afternoon in a Victorian Parlor A display of an old-fashioned sitting room in the historic Boyd Gate House (San Rafael). 415.454.8538, marinhistory.org

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

Marin Museum of Contemporary Art Legends of the Bay Area Works by Robert Hudson, through November 17 (Novato). 415.506.0137, marinmoca.org

BAY AREA

Asian Art Museum Proximities 2: Knowing Me Knowing You Part two of a three-part series, examining Asia as seen through family and community, through December 8 (SF). 415.581.3711, asianart.org

California Academy of Sciences Nightlife Enjoy music, creatures and cocktails for adults only and explore the exhibits and aquarium displays every Thursday night (SF). 415.379.8000, calacademy.org

Conservatory of Flowers Butterflies and Blooms An English garden with monarchs, swallowtails, painted ladies and more, through March 16 (SF). 415.831.2090, conser vatoryo owers.org

Contemporary Jewish Museum Work in Progress: Considering Utopia New works by three artists encourage viewers to consider the

concept of utopia both in a Jewish context and from a contemporary perspective, through January 20 (SF).

415.655.7800, thecjm.org

de Young The Art of Bulgari: La Dolce Vita & Beyond, 1950-1990 150 pieces presented in a decade-by-decade format and accompanied by sketches and other materials from the Bulgari archives, through February 17 (SF). 415.750.3600, deyoung.famsf.org

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

Legion of Honor Matisse from SFMOMA Works from four decades of the artist’s career, November 9–September 7 (SF). 415.750.3600, legiono onor.org

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

415.773.0303, sfmcd.org

Oakland Museum of California Peter Stackpole: Bridging the Bay Black-and-white photographs depicting the building of the San Francisco–Oakland Bay Bridge and Golden Gate Bridge in the 1930s, through January 26 (Oakland). 510.318.8400, museumca.org

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

Rustic Bakery Photoply SF

A selection of ink-jet images dry-mounted on European plywood by Nike van der Molen. Van der Molen is an international transplant hailing originally from the Netherlands, then Madrid, then New York and finally Miami, before finding a permanent home in the Bay Area. Marin County Mart, Larkspur. 415.461.9900, rusticbakery.com

The Walt Disney Family Museum Camille Rose Garcia: Down the Rabbit Hole, through November 3 (SF).

415.345.6800, waltdisney.org

Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Dissident Futures An investigation into possible alternative futures brought on by active engagement with current political, economic or technological structures, through February 2 (SF). 415.978.2787, ybca.org

EVENTS

NOV 1–3 The International Vintage Poster Fair One of the largest sales and expositions of original vintage posters. Thousands of posters dated from the 1890s–1980s are on display and available for purchase throughout the weekend. Fort Mason Center (SF). 800.856.8069, fortmason.org

along the way. McNears Beach Park (San Rafael). 415.446.4424, marin countyparks.org

NOV 15 Moonlighting with Owls Join the Hungry Owl Project at this fundraiser to support its educational programs and community services. After a dinner and presentation, owl handlers will bring several di erent species of owls to meet with guests. Poggio Trattoria (Sausalito). 415.454.4587, hungryowl.org

NOV 2 Share-A-Book

Readers of all ages can practice their literary skills in a judgment-free environment by reading aloud to a friendly canine companion. South Novato Library (Novato). 415.506.3165, marinlibrary.org

NOV 9 Broom-Busting Pizza Party Join Marin County Parks and partners at Alto Bowl Horseowners Association for a broom-busting pizza party and ra e. Help make the final push in a 15-year e ort to get rid of invasive French and Scotch broom on Horse Hill. Lomita Drive (Mill Valley). 415.473.3778, marincountyparks.org

NOV 9 McNears Mighty Kids Mud Run

An adventure race where kids will test their grit and endurance. Participants ages 5–14 will be challenged with a course through grass, sand, mud and the woods with fun and challeging obstacles

NOV 15–16 Art Angels Fair St. Stephen’s Church hosts its 10th fundraiser featuring the American Bach soloists, a boutique filled with goods from Bay Area artisans, works from local artists, wine, hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction. St. Stephen’s Church (Belvedere). 415.435.4501, artangelsfair.org

NOV 17 San Francisco 49ers vs. New Orleans Saints Head to the Sweetwater to root for the Niners and enjoy the game in HD on a movie screen. No cover, all ages welcome. Sweetwater Music Hall (Mill Valley). 415.388.1100, sweet watermusichall.com

NOV 21 Headlands’

First Look An evening filled with food, entertainment, cocktails and community celebrating Headlands artists and announcing 2014 Artist in Residence awardees. Headlands Center for the Arts (Sausalito). 415.331.2787, headlands.org

NOV 23–24 Holiday

in Carneros A multiwinery open house featuring nearly 20 wineries in the Carneros region of the Sonoma and Napa valleys. Check out art and craft shows, special tastings and food and wine pairings, with special activities unique to each winery. Various Locations (Napa).

800.909.4352, carneros wineries.org

NOV 23–24 Treasure

Island Flea An open-air market that features handmade items, vintage pieces, photography, antiques, food and wine and live music. Treasure Island (SF). 415.898.0245, treasureislandflea.com

NOV 23–DEC 22 Great

Dickens Christmas Fair

Celebrate the holidays Victorian-style in a slice of Charles Dickens’ London, brought to life by more than 750 authentically dressed actors. Explore winding lanes, shops, tearooms, pubs and a grand music hall. Cow Palace (Daly City). dickensfair.com

NOV 29 San Rafael

Parade of Lights and Winter Wonderland

In its 34th year, the event features a Holiday Marketplace with arts and crafts, live entertainment, children’s activities, free snow sledding and one of the largest holiday parades in the Bay Area. Fourth Street (San Rafael). sresproductions.com

FILM

NOV 9 Puccini’s Tosca

The Met: Live in HD presents Puccini’s timeless score featuring Patricia Racette as the jealous diva, Roberto Alagna as her lover and George Gagnidze as the villainous Scarpia. Lark Theater (Larkspur). 415.924.1111, larktheater.net

NOV 13–17 Napa

Valley Film Festival

Head to NVFF to enjoy 125 new independent films, film-centered events and of course the food and wine the region is famous for, spread across Napa, Yountville, St. Helena and Calistoga. Various locations (Napa). napavalleyfilmfest.org

NOV 16 Ticket to Ride Warren Miller

Entertainment presents a film that takes ski-lovers to the world’s most exotic destinations including Kazakhstan, Iceland and beyond. The film reveals legendary lines with Ted Ligety, Seth Westcott, Julia Mancuso and more, taking viewers on the ride of a lifetime. Marin Center (San Rafael).

415.499.6800, marincenter.org

NATURE WALKS & TALKS

ONGOING Foodie

Adventures Experience the Mission District, North Beach or Chinatown on a culinary walking tour. Various locations (SF).

888.498.2008, foodie adventures.com

ONGOING Mark Twain

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

ONGOING Sausalito

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

ONGOING 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

THRU NOV 16 Fall 2013 Leadership Lecture Series Dominican University and Book Passage present a 10th season of leadership lectures by some of the country’s leading figures in business, politics, entertainment, academia and literature. Dominican University (San Rafael). 415.927.0960, bookpassage.com

Marin’s Complete Markets

THRU DEC 17 Exploring

Motherhood A free mothers’ group for new and expecting mothers and their babies up to 12 months. Learn about the di erent stages of pregnancy and motherhood, explore new ways to guide your baby toward healthy development, get information about community resources

and meet other new local moms. Apple FamilyWorks (San Rafael). 415.492.0720, familyworks.org

NOV 2 Birding With Kids at Rush Creek

Take a family stroll in search of waterfowl and other birds found here such as the northern shoveler, the willet and

the red-tailed hawk. David Herlocker, Marin County Parks naturalist, will share his expertise and unique knowledge of the park. Rush Creek (Novato). 415.456.7283, wildcarebayarea.org

NOV 5 Doris Kearns Goodwin In her forthcoming book The Bully Pulpit: Theodore Roosevelt, William Howard Taft, and the Golden Age of Journalism, Doris Kearns Goodwin captures the Progressive era through the story of the broken friendship between Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft, culminating in their running against one another for president in 1912.

Nourse Theater (San Francisco). 415.392.4400, cityarts.net

NOV 6 A Conversation with Jared Huffman and Tom Peters The Commonwealth Club and the Marin Community Foundation present Marin Conversations. This month, congressman Jared Hu man shares his insights with Marin Community Foundation CEO Tom Peters. The Outdoor Art Club (Mill Valley). 415.597.6700, common wealthclub.org

NOV 7 The Art of Japanese Floral Design Bridget Anderson demonstrates ikebana — the Japanese art of flower arrangement — from the Sogetsu School,

focusing on balance, harmony and form. Outdoor Art Club (Mill Valley). 415.388.9886, outdoorartclub.com

NOV 13 David Sedaris

One of America’s preeminent humor writers returns to Marin in support of his latest New York Times best seller Let’s Explore Diabetes with Owls. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.473.6800, marincenter.org

NOV 14 Mark Halperin & John Heilemann –

Double Down From the authors of the number one New York Times best seller Game Change, an explosive account of the 2012 presidential election pulling back the curtain to reveal the exhilarating, news-breaking

story behind the headlines for the first time. Book Passage (Corte Madera). 415.927.0960, bookpassage.com

NOV 15 An Evening with Paul Saltzman

Join the two-time Emmy Award–winning cinematographer as he presents photos and discusses his 2012 journey to India. Presented by Teri Goldstein of Travels with Teri Studio 333 (Sausalito). 415.331.3791, travels withteri.com

NOV 19 Mary Roach in Conversation with Jon Mooallen Mary Roach — author of Book Passage’s 2013 One Book One Marin selection, Packing for Mars — discusses her books and weird science. Nourse Theater

(San Francisco). 415.392.4400, cityarts.net

NOV 24 Stuart Thornton – Moon Coastal California Travel writer and longtime California resident Stuart Thornton covers the best of Coastal California, from hiking through redwoods in Big Sur to lounging on the famous beaches of Malibu. Book Passage (Corte Madera). 415.927.0960, bookpassage.com

SPINE CENTER

Robert Byers, MD Brian Su, MD

Dine

AN INSIDER’S GUIDE TO RESTAURANTS AND GOOD FOOD IN THE BAY AREA EDITED BY MIMI TOWLE

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

CORTE MADERA

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

IL FORNAIO Italian Sausalito’s Larry Mindel hit a home run with this upscale Italian restaurant franchise. Besides the awardwinning breads, pizzas and pastas, the menu o ers a variety of salads and noncarb entrées.

223 Corte Madera Town Ctr, 415.927.4400, ilfornaio.com

LA MAISON DE LA

REINE Vietnamese A refreshing change amid the plethora of Italian, Mexican and Chinese options. The crunchy cabbage chicken salad with peanuts, fresh spring rolls and combinations of pho are all popular menu items.

346 Corte Madera Town Ctr, 415.927.0288

MARIN JOE’S Italian

Authentic Italian dishes have been served here for over 50 years. Pick from soup, salad, seafood, mesquite-grilled or sautéed meats and more than 10 pasta options guaranteed to satisfy. Have a drink and hear local musicians at the well-known piano bar. 1585 Casa Buena Dr, 415.924.2081, marinjoesrestaurant.com

SEA THAI BISTRO

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

THE COUNTER

California/American

The folks at the Counter have taken the “have it your way” motto to a wholenew level. Mostly known for all-natural Angus beef, turkey, chicken or veggie burgers, the restaurant also o ers options like a bowl (all the ingredients without the bun) or salads. And if you want a martini with your burger, no

problem—there’s a full bar. 201 Corte Madera Town Center 415.924.7000, thecounterburger.com

FAIRFAX

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 Soo Young Kim, who previously acted as owner, chef and sommelier at Petaluma’s Sooze Wine Bar. The neighborhood spot

WIPEOUT BAR & GRILL

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

KENTFIELD

HALF DAY CAFE

Belcampo Farms near Mount Shasta, dedicated to practicing a holistic approach to pasture management. Marin Country Mart, 2405 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.448.5810, belcampomeatco.com

EL HUARACHE LOCO

Mexican Bringing authentic Mexico City dishes to Marin, chef Veronica Salazar’s menu has gained quite a following. Marin Country Mart, 1803 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.925.1403, huaracheloco.com

EMPORIO RULLI Italian

American A tuckedaway setting of intertwining ivy and large open windows makes a perfect breakfast nook that’s also open for brunch and lunch. The menu includes lattes, exceptional pastries and much more. The place is casual and can get crowded on the weekends. Dine inside or on the outdoor patio. 848 College Ave, 415.459.0291, halfdaycafe.com

AMBROSIA Italian This family friendly Italian joint serves traditional pizzas and homemade pastas, accompanied by one of the best wine-bythe-glass programs in Marin. Taking over the space formerly occupied by Pacific Café, Mark Leslie is bringing his pizza, pasta and passion for good wines by the glass to Kentfield— look for them on Facebook for details. 800 College Ave, 415.925.9292

LARKSPUR

BELCAMPO MEAT CO.

American This eatery serves classic grilled items like the roasted tri-tip sandwich and classic sloppy joe. The meat is delivered from the certified-organic

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

FABRIZIO RISTORANTE

Italian Traditional Italian dishes with an extensive wine list from regions all over Italy; outdoor seating makes the experience even more special. 455 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.3332, fabrizioristorante.com

MARIN BREWING CO

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

RUSTIC BAKERY

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

MILL VALLEY

EL PASEO HOUSE OF

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

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 Christine Zecca and chef Duilio Valenti, both from Milano; the kitchen uses local and organic ingredients. For special occasions and private parties, reserve the olive-press room. The popular weekday happy hour starts at 4:30 p.m. 152 Shoreline Hwy, 415.289.5777, frantoio.com

HARMONY Chinese

Dishes here are an infusion of many flavors. The barbecue pork bun is filled with house-made roasted meat in a savory sauce, and fresh mussels are accented with red chili

and Thai basil. Pair your pick with wine, beer or tea. Strawberry Village, 415.381.5300, harmonyrestaurant group.com

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

MILL VALLEY

BEERWORKS American

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

NOURISH GRILL

American Open for brunch, lunch and dinner, Nourish o ers a variety of classic seafood, like fish ’n’ chips, as well as American grill fare like the Niman Ranch black ’n’ bleu burger. The establishment is also the restaurant for the Club at Harbor Point and is situated on the waterfront and open to the public. Many ingredients are locally sourced and organic. 475 E Strawberry Dr, 415.381.4400, nourish.harbor-point.com

Now Open

With 35 years in Marin County we’ve relocated to Strawberry Village Shopping Center

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

Fine Arts

“Adam and Eve”, Giclee on Canvas, 24” x 32”

Petri’s Fine Arts 415.332.2626 • www.petrisfinearts.com • 690 Bridgeway, Sausalito

Out

PEARL’S PHAT

BURGERS American

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. 8 E. Blithedale Ave, 415.381.6010, pearlsdeluxe.com

SOL FOOD Puerto Rican

This Marin favorite has opened doors in Mill Valley, where they continue to serve up everyone’s favorite Puerto Rican cuisine. The line can get long, but the food is well worth it. 401 Miller Ave, 415.380.1986, solfoodrestaurant.com

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. 19 Corte Madera Ave, 415.388.3850, sweet watermusichall.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

GRAZIE CAFE Italian

Locals love this familyowned-and-run Grant Avenue restaurant for delicious paninis, salads and the unbeatable homemade cookies. Enjoy good weather on

the outdoor patio or people-watch in this always-bustling restaurant. 823 Grant Ave, Ste E, 415.879.5181

HILLTOP 1892 California

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

TOAST American Sister to the popular Mill Valley location, Toast Novato features outdoor dining and contemporary architchture by Stanley Saitowitz. The spacious restaurant is ideal for large parties and families. 5800 Nave Dr, 415.382.1144, toastnovato.com

SAN ANSELMO

COMFORTS CAFE

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

CUCINA RESTAURANT AND WINE BAR Italian

Relax with a glass of wine and have a slice of the to-die-for thin crust pizza, topped with items like tru e oil and fontina cheese. 510 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.2942, cucinarestaurantand winebar.com

L’APPART RESTO

French Owners Bruno Denis and Olivier Souvestre, of Le Garage, o er 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

LINCOLN PARK WINE

BAR American Adhering to a farm-to-table and grape-to-glass philosophy, the Lincoln Park Wine Bar serves locally sourced and organic food and wine. 198 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.453.9898, lincolnparkwine.com

MH BREAD & BUTTER

California This onestop-shop o ers everything from coffee and pastries to artisan bread and braised meats. High quality ingredients and a comfortable atmosphere make MH worth checking out. 101 San Anselmo Ave, 415.755.4575, mhbreadandbutter.com

A TRADITION OF

Luxury Retirement Living in Marin County

SAN RAFAEL

AMICI’S EAST COAST

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

IL DAVIDE Italian A

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

MULBERRY STREET

PIZZERIA Italian Chef

Ted Rowe won first place in the Food Network Television Pizza Challenge with

his Mushroom Lover’s Pizza — sautéed mushrooms in a creamy garlic sauce atop a fresh pizza crust. Located across from the Smith Ranch Road movie theaters, it’s a great place to grab dinner and a movie. 101 Smith Ranch Rd, 415.472.7272, mulberry-streetpizzeria.com

ODALISQUE CAFÉ

Mediterranean This casual art cafe was inspired by “La Grande Odalisque,” an oil painting of a slave done in 1814 by Jean-AugusteDominque Ingres. Menu items are built from seasonal items available at farmers’ markets and include persimmon salad, roasted butternut squash risotto and a variety of pizzettas. 1335 Fourth St, 415.460.1335, odalisquecafe.com

PIZZA ORGASMICA

American Visit the website for information about monthly specials such as Orgasmica Madness (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

RISTORANTE

LA TOSCANA Italian

This family-owned restaurant has been serving authentic Italian cuisine for more than 20 years. The menu features classics like lasagna alla bolgnese, gnocchi and carbonara, and the restaurant o ers a weekday happy hour and 50% o all bottles of wine on Wednesdays. 3751 Redwood Hwy, 415.492.9100, ristorantelatoscana.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

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

VIN ANTICO American

This newly re-opened restaurant o ers seasonal market inspired cuisine like stone oven baked flat breads, hand made pasta, organic salads. Set in an old brick building, the kitchen is open to the dining room and you can even snag a seat at the chef’s counter. 881 4th St, 415.721.0600, vin-antico.com

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

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

BARREL HOUSE

TAVERN California

Stop by Barrel House for local food accompanied by fantastic bay and city views. The setting is the perfect place to enjoy one of the restaurant’s signature, barrel aged cocktails. 660 Bridgeway, 415.729.9593, barrelhousetavern.com

marcobicego.com

Uncorked

Bottle recommendations from some of the county’s resident sommeliers.

WE WANTED TO find out more about the wine experts who exact the perfect pairings and wax poetic about the bottles you enjoy at your favorite Marin restaurants. Of course, you can’t talk to a sommelier without finding out what labels he or she loves. CALIN VAN PARIS

Wes Box {Vin Antico}

Wes Box is a California native who first enjoyed wine as a beverage after surfing sessions on the central and northern coasts. He recommends wines that are o the radar and site specific. “My aim is to help consumers understand the true terroir of the West Coast,” says Box, whom you can meet at Vin Antico. vinantico.com

BIG RED: 2009 Branham Estate “Senal” Rockpile red wine, $30 “This wine, vintage to vintage, is consistent — my favorite California-style blend for daily drinking.”

IMPRESS: 2005 Tournesol Cabernet Sauvignon, Coombsville, Napa Valley, $150 “Red currant, cassis, chocolate, blueberry and plum. Long silky finish.”

COLLECTIBLE: 2010 La Rue, Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, $68 “La Rue pinot noir is sourced from Rice Spivak vineyard in Sebastopol; the wine has amazing texture and is a real expression of our local coastal terroir.”

STEAL: 2012 Brainchild, Vermentino/Muscat, Calif., $15–$18 “A great alternative to sauvignon blanc, with exotic tropical notes and a saline quality, backed up by flavors of peach, star fruit and guava.”

Monica Zanotti {Cavallo Point}

As sommelier at Cavallo Point Lodge, Monica Zanotti helps guests select wine from a list of 2,200 selections and 15,000 bottles. She also educates the lodge’s sta on wine styles and regions, so don’t worry if you find yourself daunted by the sheer amount of options — you will have plenty of help narrowing your search for the perfect bottle. cavallopoint.com

BIG RED: Vineyard 7 & 8 Cabernet

Sauvignon Spring Mountain District 2008, $146 “This cabernet has that big, ripe mountain fruit, and the few years of bottle age have rounded out the tannins.”

IMPRESS: Domaine de la Pousse d’Or Volnay 1er Cru “En Caillerets” 2009, $195 “The plum and violets on the palate are beautifully balanced with the minerality and acidity.”

COLLECTIBLE: Domaine du Pégaü Cuveé Réservé 2007, $290 “2007 châteauneufs are pleasant right out of the gate but can also cellar for at least 10 more years because of the structure.”

STEAL: Câpture Sauvignon Blanc Tradition North Coast 2011, $61 “A perfect wine to sip on our veranda or with oysters to start off the meal.”

Amy Currens {Farmshop}

Amy Currens has been working in wineries and studying with master sommeliers for the better part of a decade. After a stint as wine director/beverage manager for a major hotel in San Francisco, Currens is currently fine-tuning her studies as Farmshop Marin’s resident wine expert. farmshopla.com

BIG RED: Favia Cerro Sur 2010, $145 “Loads of pedigree behind this project, but more than that, the wine is spectacular and the minds behind it are some of the best people around.”

IMPRESS: Pol Roger Winston Churchill 1996, $350 “Finding myself without a budget would open up a newfound plethora of choices, and with that I would go for vintage champagne.”

COLLECTIBLE: J.K. Carriere

Antoinette Pinot Noir Willamette Valley, Ore., $68 “Vintage champagne, again, but only if you can resist drinking it sooner (mine are all in storage so it makes them a challenge to access in a bad judgment moment).”

STEAL: Domain Hippolyte Reverdy Sancerre, Loire, France, $23 “I look to the Loire Sancerre — favorite is Hippolyte Reverdy — but I adore Daulny Clos de Chaudeney Sancerre as well.”

The Conscious Kitchen

Local, organic ingredients bring student lunches to a whole new level.

MARIN COUNTY HAS a bountiful supply of farm-fresh organic food, but whether due to busy schedules, limited budgets or outdated school programs, those healthy options rarely make it to kids’ lunch trays. Not so at Bayside MLK Academy, where the student-led organization Teens Turning Green, Murray Circle executive chef Justin Everett and Good Earth Natural Foods have teamed up with the Sausalito Marin City School District to create The Conscious Kitchen, a school food program working to provide locally sourced, sustainable breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack items for just $5 a day per student — with some ingredients even coming from the student-run Bayside garden. Local chef Maggie Weber-Striplin oversees the operation, implemented in late August. “There is no other place on earth you’d find support like we have in this community,” says Bayside MLK principal Daniel Norbutas. “This collaboration truly defines what community means and is living proof that when we work together, there are solutions for every need.” Here’s a recipe for one of the simple yet delicious dishes on the Bayside menu. CALIN VAN PARIS

Quinoa Mac and Cheese

SERVES 4

Ingredients

12 ounces water salt to taste

8 ounces La Yapa organic quinoa macaroni

8 ounces Clover Stornetta heavy cream

4 ounces Rumiano-brand organic cheddar quinoa greens

To Prepare

1 Place a large pot of water on high heat and bring to a rolling boil. 2 When the water begins to boil, add enough salt so it tastes salty. 3 Add the quinoa, which will serve as the pasta in this dish, and cook for approximately 10 minutes. 4 Remove the macaroni from the pot and spread out on a sheet tray to cool. 5 In a pan combine cream, cheese and macaroni. 6 Place the pan over medium heat and cook until the cream starts to bubble and simmer. 7 Slowly stir and allow the mixture to thicken, approximately 5 minutes. 8 Season with salt, then scoop the macaroni onto the plate. 9 Garnish with fresh quinoa greens.

CIBO Cafe Marinites love to stop here for outdoor co ee.

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

DAVEY JONES DELI

American Stationed in the New Bait Shop Market since May 2010, Davey Jones Deli boasts house-roasted sandwich meats, healthy condiments and local, organic vegetables. 1 Gate 6 Rd, 415.331.2282, daveyjonesdeli.com

FAST FOOD FRANCAIS

French This “frenchified American comfort food” spot opened in February after taking over Plate Shop’s old location. Owned and operated by the owners of Le Garage and L’Appart Resto, F3 serves brunch, lunch and dinner, with specialties such as the le bleu burger and a spinach and oyster mushroom omelette. 39 Caledonia St, 415.887.9047, eatf3.com

FENG NIAN Chinese

Busy at lunch and dinner, this spacious hangout has been a popular spot for wonton soup, pot stickers and daily specials for nearly two decades. For an indulgent treat order the Szechwan crispy calamari or honey-glazed walnut prawn. Free delivery. 2650 Bridgeway, 415.331.5300, fengnian.com

KITTI’S PLACE Thai/

California Known for the tasty Chinese chicken salad and spring rolls. Owner Kitti Suthipipiat was the cook at Comforts in San Anselmo for many years. Try weekly specials like the Thai Toast: crispy sliced baguette topped with shrimp and chicken. 3001 Bridgeway, 415.331.0390, kittisplace.com

LE GARAGE French

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

MURRAY CIRCLE

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

NAPA VALLEY BURGER

COMPANY American

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

BY JOHANN PAUL

JEWELERS

johannpauljewelers.com M-F 10-6 • Sat. 10-5

OSTERIA DIVINO

Tuscan Locals come for the tasty pastas and salads as well as co ee drinks, served in a funky one-room setting. 37 Caledonia St, 415.331.9355, ca edivinosausalito.com

POGGIO Italian

Executive chef Ben Balesteri cooks up delicious Northern Italian cuisine using fresh and local ingredients, including produce from the nearby Poggio chef garden. 777 Bridgeway, 415.332.7771, poggiotratoria.com

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

SEAFOOD PEDDLER

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

SEAHORSE Italian

The spacious dining area, stage and dance floor make Seahorse perfect for both small and large celebrations. Enjoy a modern twist on classic Tuscan coastal cuisine while shaking your booty to the nightly live music and entertainment. 305 Harbor Dr, 415.331.2899, sausalitoseahorse.com

SPINNAKER Seafood

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

SUSHI RAN Japanese

Fresh, innovative small plates are just big enough to share, the traditional sushi is melt-in-your-mouth good, and the wine, cocktail and sake lists keep even the pickiest barfly satisfied. The prices don’t deter the herd of sushi enthusiasts who line up nightly to partake. Reservations are required in the main room. 107 Caledonia St, 415.332.3620, sushiran.com

TOMMY’S WOK

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

THE TRIDENT Seafood Originally a turn-ofthe-century building constructed in 1898 for the San Francisco Yacht Club, this waterfront restaurant reopened in October after a remodel. Executive

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

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

MILANO Italian Located in the Cove Shopping Center, this familyowned neighborhood spot is known for its pasta and friendly service. 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

restaurant’s wellpriced three-course dinners for less than $25. 2000 Paradise Dr, 415.435.3400, thecaprice.com

DON ANTONIO

TRATTORIA Italian

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

GUAYMAS Mexican

Situated right next to the Tiburon ferry terminal on the waterfront. Happy hour is 4 to 7 p.m. M-F. Menu includes specialties like puerco macho — pork loin chop with grilled plantain, topped with an ancho chile, garlic and onion sauce. 5 Main St, 415.435.6300, guaymasrestaurant.com

American This sunfilled, hardwood-floored one-room restaurant with blue-checkered tablecloths is a local favorite. Popular items on chef Abraham Monterroso’s menu include scallops, rib-eye steak, a beef burger and traditional crab cakes with jalapeño dipping sauce. 38 Main Street, 415.435.3594

SERVINO RISTORANTE

Italian 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. 1651 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.5996, tiburontavern.com

WEST MARIN

DRAKES BEACH CAFE

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

NICK’S COVE American

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

OSTERIA STELLINA

California The menu is Italian-inspired using organic, local ingredients. If you’re looking for something unusual try the goat shoulder, a favorite of locals and tourists alike. (Point Reyes). 11285 Hwy 1, 415.663.9988, osteriastellina.com

PARKSIDE CAFE

American Choose from an array of organic, locally grown produce, artisan meats and wild seafood (Stinson). 43 Arenal Ave, 415.868.1272, parksidecafe.com

PINE CONE DINER

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

RANCHO NICASIO

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

SAND DOLLAR

American Originally built from three barges in Tiburon in 1921, the Sand Dollar Restaurant was floated to Stinson that same year. (Stinson). 3458 Shoreline Hwy, 415.868.0434, stinson beachrestaurant.com

THE SIR & STAR AT THE OLEMA California

Try the housemade bread and honey butter, the kale Caesar and the stu ed quail, or take the plunge and sample the entire menu — the majority of items are $20 or less. 10000 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, 415.663.1034,sirandstar.com

STATION HOUSE CAFE

American Fresh local homegrown foods, served when available, are showcased on the chef’s menu. 11180 State Route One, 415.663.1515, stationhousecafe.com

SURFERS GRILL

American Built right out on Stinson Beach, this casual lunch spot o ers up fresh organic salads alongside corn dogs, burgers and fries. Stinson Beach Park, Hwy 1, 415.868.1777, surfersgrill.com

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

VISIT THE NEW MILL VALLEY URBANREMEDY

100% organic juice, salad, and snack brand URBAN R EMEDY has just opened doors in Mill Valley. Known for their organic juice cleanses, raw salads, and gluten-free snacks, Urban Remedy is waiting to serve you.

LOCAL

LOCAL SCENERY

On the Scene

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

STEPPING OUT TO CELEBRATE LIFE Breast cancer survivors as models was the highlight of the annual Stepping Out Gala at the Marin Center Exhibit Hall September 28. Guests also enjoyed casino games, dinner and dancing.

36TH MILL VALLEY FILM FESTIVAL The always-popular Mill Valley film festival attracted stars and lots of fans at its opening at the Mill Valley Art and Garden Center in Mill Valley. The festival ran October 3–13.

WINGS OVER MARIN AIR SHOW Aviation enthusiasts celebrated women in aviation at the Wings Over Marin Air Show September 21. Wings Over Marin is designed to inspire the next generation of aviators.

SHOE STORIES OF SAUSALITO

Friends and supporters gathered to help launch the new Sausalito shoe store on July 26. The store, created by Sausalito’s Wayne Kaleck, officially opened in September and in October donated 10 percent of net proceeds to the Roni Peskin Mentzer Memorial Fund in honor of the late Zero Breast Cancer chairwoman.

APPELLATION MARIN

FUNDRAISER

The Ritter Center held its annual fundraiser June 2 at Homeward Bound in Novato. Guests sampled local food and appetizers and enjoyed local wines, all benefiting the organization that assists the local lowincome and homeless population.

ANGELS BY THE BAY Music, cigars, wine, dinner and dancing were all part of the fun at the sixth annual Angels by the Bay gala October 4 at the Meadow Club in Fairfax. Proceeds benefited the MCIL organization and its efforts to serve people with disabilities in the county.

LADIES NIGHT ON THE CATWALK

At a private home in Ross Valley, guests enjoyed a fashion show, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres September 21. Ladies Night benefits Sunny Hills Services, which has been providing mental health services for children and families since 1895.

MARIN ADVERTISERS SPEAK UP

ad lib

Kevin Patsel, manager of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Marin

Coldwell Banker was founded in San Francisco in 1906 on the heels of the big quake. A young real estate agent, Colbert Coldwell, saw the need for honest and knowledgeable real estate services to help the city rebuild. As the company grew, he hired Arthur Banker as a member of his sales staff. The two eventually formed a partnership and in 1914 officially named the company Coldwell Banker. It is indeed, a local company.

What is your competitive edge?

Coldwell Banker’s agents are what give the company its competitive advantage. They are known and respected in the Marin real estate community for their transaction knowledge, honesty, integrity and customer service. Above all, they are there to help their clients at every step of the transaction process — something home buyers and sellers appreciate.

Describe your dream client/customer.

Our dream customer is someone who is engaged in the process of buying

Melina Raissnia, owner of Peace Industry

Peace Industry is a producer of hand-felted wool rugs — a revitalization of an ancient Central Asian craft combined with modern designs. Peace Industry has a show room in the Mission District in San Francisco. The collection is fully customizable, 100 percent wool, naturally dyed and chemical free.

Briefly describe your business philosophy. Our business philosophy is to humbly do work that is healthy for everyone involved and creatively inspiring.

What is your competitive edge?

Our competitive edge is our highly unique and high quality rugs made by people who love what they do, which is apparent to our customers.

Your thoughts regarding working with a spouse, family or partner?

Having a husband-and-wife-partnered business can be challenging but it is also very rewarding and makes Dodd and I closer. The advantage is that conflicts get aired immediately and resolved quickly because you have to live together.

or selling a home. They are inquisitive and act as a partner with their agent as they work to develop the best strategy for their home purchase or sale.

What (or who) did you want to be when you grew up?

My father was a San Francisco firefighter and it wasn’t so much the fact that he wore a really cool uniform or saved lives that impressed me, as much as the fact that he knew everyone. I was always in awe of his connections with members of the community and his ability to make them smile. I didn’t know what I wanted to do, but I knew I wanted to do that.

Which product or service that you offer is your favorite?

Agents are the best of what Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage has to offer. They are dedicated to their clients and to helping them in the process of finding a new home or selling their current one. It’s not just a transaction to our affiliate agents, it’s a major milestone in someone’s life — something not to be taken lightly.

What makes you excel at what you do?

I love problem solving and helping agents work through their transactions in a positive and productive way. This is not a business about ego, rather one about assisting clients in a very personal transaction.

COLDWELL BANKER RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE, VARIOUS MARIN LOCATIONS, 415.464.3500, COLDWELLBANKERMARIN.COM, KEVIN@COLDWELLBANKER.COM

What (or who) did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a painter in Paris since I was five years old.

Five years from now, what changes will your business experience?

My hope is that our business is, more or less, the same, just more efficient.

What part of your business drives you crazy?

The worst part of my business is dealing with computers and anything online. The folks in that industry keep reinventing the wheel just as soon as I get the hang of the last wheel.

PEACE INDUSTRY, 2235 MISSION STREET (COMMUNAL UNIT), SAN FRANCISCO, 415.255.9940, PEACEINDUSTRY.COM, PEACEINDUSTRY@GMAIL.COM

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!

Serving Marin for over 25 years with delicious Szechwan, Mandarin cuisine. Always fresh food and friendly service, nice decor, and easy parking. Also offer delivery to Southern Marin, and private parties for any occasion.

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

Feng Nian

2650 Bridgeway

415.331.5300

Sausalito, CA fengnian.com

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

Nourish Grill

475 East Strawberry Dr

415.381.4400 Mill Valley, CA eatatnourish.com on strawberry point

The Counter offers all-natural, humanely-raised beef and 312,120+ combinations to build your own burger. The Counter is a great place for family, friends, great music and a full bar. Voted best burger in Bay Area by SFGate.com readers on Baylist 2011. ‘LIKE’ us on www.facebook.com/ TheCounterCorteMadera !

The Counter

201 Town Center

415.924.7000

Corte Madera, CA thecounterburger.com

Il Fornaio

223 Corte Madera Town Ctr

415.927.4400 Corte Madera, CA ilfornaio.com

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

Robata Grill & Sushi

591 Redwood Hwy.

415.381.8400 Mill Valley, CA robatagrill.com

Vin Antico 881 4th Street

415.721.0600 San Rafael, CA vin-antico.com

Friday November 15th, 2013

Historic Rancho Nicasio Restaurant

Live & silent auctions featuring fabulous wines, vacations, exotic destinations, gourmet dinners & more… Proceeds support therapeutic horseback riding for kids with disabilities. Tickets $125 www.halleckcreekranch.org PH 415-662-2488

Pine Street NATURAL INTERIORS

Dream House Ra e

$2 Million Marin County Dream House or Choose $1.5 Million in Cash

Raffle Ends

November 29th!

This could be your view from a beautiful 4,000 sq. ft. bay front Marin County Dream House, or choose $1.5 million dollars in cash!

Community Action Marin’s Dream House Ra e has awarded more than $8 million in prizes to winners throughout the Bay Area!

About the Raffle

Only 35 thousand tickets will be sold. The Grand Prize winner chooses either a $2 million dollar dream home in Marin County or $1.5 million dollars in cash. Over $300,000.00 in cash will also be given away in addition to the Grand Prize. Individuals who purchase two or more tickets are automatically entered into the bonus “Multi-Ticket Drawing” worth $40,000.00 in cash! Refer a friend to buy a ticket, and you could be the winner of another $10,000.00 cash prize just for having your name mentioned when they purchase their ticket! Proceeds from the ra e benefit Community Action Marin, a private, non-profit, social service agency serving individuals, families, and children in need in Marin County for over 46 years.

All entries received by November 1, 2013 will be entered into Early Bird Drawing 4 as well as the Grand Prize Drawing. Last day to purchase a ticket is November 29th. Enter today to increase your chances of winning a prize.

Marin Home

FROM TOURS AND MAKEOVERS TO DECORATIVE DETAILS AND REALTOR INSIGHTS

ROOM TO GROW

A family finds a Craftsman-style home with lots of space and high-end touches.

BY LAURA HILGERS • PHOTOS BY TIM PORTER

SHERENE AND WILSON Chen are nothing if not decisive. They met in business school, started dating in 2009, married in 2010 and had two sons immediately. So when they found the house of their dreams, they moved quickly. As in lightning-quick.

Sherene, a wardrobe stylist, and Wilson, who works in aviation finance, had been living in San Francisco and looking for a house in Burlingame for a year when they decided, on a whim, to drive to Mill Valley. They saw a house they loved and met the realtor, Jeanette Cling. But the house, unfortunately, was in escrow.

Three days later, though, Cling spotted a different home that she thought would be perfect. The Chens toured it on a Wednesday, placed a bid on Friday, closed in five days, and moved in a week later. This despite their knowing nothing about Mill Valley, which they’d only seen while driving past on the way to wine country.

Sound crazy? Not when you see the house. The Chens’ Craftsman-style home, which sits atop a hill on the Tiburon–Mill Valley border, is stunning. “When you walk through, you think, wow, every fixture, every doorknob, every faucet, everything in this house is very high end,” says Cling.

Completely remodeled in 2006 by Hood Thomas Architects, the home featured what the Chens wanted most: “We were looking for a great room setup, which you could get in Burlingame, but it would be a lot smaller,” says Sherene.

Their Mill Valley home has the great room to end all great rooms: It’s airy and expansive, with vaulted cedar ceilings. A spare limestone-and-walnut fireplace provides an anchoring e ect and a striking visual counterpoint to the broad-planked walnut floors and warm gray paint throughout. In a bold architectural statement, the space

flows to the dining room, separated simply by columns, and to the outdoors thanks to unusually tall glass doors.

The room also opens into the kitchen, which has marble countertops, two dishwashers, and one of the Chens’ more enviable problems. “This house has so much storage, we can’t fill everything,” says Sherene, opening empty drawers.

Indeed, that problem pertains to much of the house, which features solidly crafted built-ins, from the living room’s media center to the back hall’s built-in desk. There’s just one place that isn’t hard to fill: the walk-in closet. Sherene, who’s also a personal shopper, has a store’s worth of clothes and at least 100 pairs of shoes.

And here is a spot where she faces a daily moment of indecision. Marriage? Children? The perfect house? Easy. But as any woman can tell you, choosing the right shoe is an entirely di erent story. m

THE DETAILS

WHERE THEY PURCHASED Mill Valley’s Bay Vista neighborhood

WHAT THEY BOUGHT 3,100-squarefoot Craftsman-style shingled home

LISTING AGENT Warren Mullen, Pacific Union

SELLING AGENT Jeanette Cling, Frank Howard Allen

STATS Average cost per square foot for homes in the neighborhood: $700–$900

True to Its Roots A traditional space goes modern.

THE HOMEOWNER WAS ready for a change and wanted to maintain a contemporary feel while staying true and drawing attention to the home’s mid-century roots. To make sure the new design was elegant, fun and completely childproof, the owner sought help from a professional.

CHALLENGES

The biggest challenge in this room was creatively working with a small kitchen space so that it could be used at its maximum potential and creating a natural flow into the neighboring space — the dining room.

MOST PROUD OF

“I like how the kitchen feels fresh and current while referencing the mid-century roots of the house,” says Parks. “Our main goal was to fully mirror the owner’s style, and I believe it does.”

BIGGEST SPLURGE

All items — cabinetry, counters, appliances — were top notch, but the icing on the cake was the Heath Ceramics backsplash tile, along with the Saarinen marble table.

BY CALIN VAN PARIS

Kitchen

INTERIOR DESIGNER: SHIRLEY PARKS

Parks’ passion for design drives her business and has done so from an early age — she can remember drawing furniture and drafting floor plans as a child. She believes that personal environment lends itself to a positive outlook on life and that a home should reflect its owner at his or her very best. With degrees in business and architecture and a diverse background (six years at architectural firms and 12 with corporations), she has an aesthetic that’s stylish yet functional.

before

after

Dining Room

CHALLENGES

Making this room feel like a proper dining room, rather than just a transitional space, was particularly challenging.

MOST PROUD OF

“I love how the detailing on the chairs, draperies and wallpaper play off each other,” says Parks.

BIGGEST SPLURGE

The glass-beaded wall covering in the bar and the weathered metals wall covering in the dining room were luxuries.

before

Mirror, Mirror

Mounted on telephone poles, trees and garages, they keep you safe and help you see what’s coming around the next corner. They are the mirrors of Marin.

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

PHOTOS BY TIM PORTER

$5,995,000 www.815stonyhill.com

$2,795,000 www.332blackfield.com

$2,395,000 www.90uppertoyondrive.com

465 Ridge Road Contemporary Tiburon Masterpiece

Magnificent 4 bedroom, 4 bath contemporary masterpiece with unobstructed views of the Bay from Angel Island and the San Francisco skyline to the Golden Gate Bridge. This impressive gated retreat is ideally nestled in a prime Tiburon location, coveted for privacy, sunny southern exposure, superior views, and large, half-acre lots. Sprawling lawn terraces frame this architectural gem. A beautiful sanctuary beckons as you enter this exquisite custom home. Handsome, hand stacked ledge stone walls meet Brazilian cherry floors and solid mahogany windows and doors. Chef’s dream kitchen is equipped with Wolf range with Abbaka hood, Sub-Zero fridge, Miele double ovens. Glorious master suite has straight on Golden Gate bridge views. Welcome home!

O ered at $6,850,000 465RidgeRoadRetreat.com

Penny Wright-Mulligan Luxury Property Specialist

Contact

415.601.8191

penny.wright-mulligan @pacunion.com

pennywrightmulligan.com

BRE#01495932

Thank You to my Wonderful Clients!

187 Saint Thomas Way, Tiburon

$2,150,000

Seller Representation, Sold in less than 30 days!

Also Recently Sold

365 Crown Road, Kentfield

$1,340,000

Seller Representation, Sold in 2 weeks over asking price with multiple o ers!

274 Glen Drive, Sausalito

$699,000

Buyer Representation

● 215 Currey Lane, Sausalito. Listed at $1,088,000. Buyer Representation.

● 7 Fairview Court, San Anselmo. Listed at $649,000. Buyer Representation.

● 617 Locust Street, Sausalito. Listed at $1,050,000. Seller Representation.

● 94 Saint Thomas Way, Tiburon. Listed at $2,695,000. Buyer Representation.

● 183 Saint Thomas Way, Tiburon. Listed at $1,695,000. Seller Representation.

● 4221 Shelter Bay Avenue, Mill Valley. Listed at $515,000. Seller Representation.

● 9 Saint Lucia Place, Tiburon. Listed at $1,350,000. Buyer Representation.

● 367 Morning Sun Avenue, Mill Valley. Listed at $895,000. Buyer Representation.

A Member of Real Living

Condo #405P1/403B2: 2BR/2BA $1,175,000

NOW IS THE TIME TO MAKE YOUR MOVE

With interest rates near an all-time low, we have a surplus of qualified buyers ready to make an offer on your home. Our experienced team of real estate professionals will create a marketing plan that is carefully designed and skillfully executed to help you meet your selling goals.

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Mountain View, San Rafael Dominican’s own Gatsby Estate-Heather Hill. Remodeled 1916 Georgian Manor on nearly 2 private acres. 5300+sf, gracious, light-filled rooms, high ceilings, pool, patio, lawns and guest house.

129MountainView.com

$3,650,000

Lindy Emrich 415.717.4005

Sacramento Avenue, San Anselmo Ultra custom, 4bd/4.5ba home built in 2005. 4209+/-sf with perfect scale and design. Incredible great room and master suite, level lawn and fantastic views of Mt Tam. Simply stunning.

171Sacramento.com

$2,375,000

Craig Burnett 415.847.8616

El Capitan Avenue, Mill Valley

Reduced! 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths on a .67+/acre lot. A magnificent property transformed. Private and secluded with gracious outdoor areas ideal for entertaining. In an A+ location.

1ElCapitan.com

$2,095,000 Kristine Tiret 415.310.0269

Laurelwood Avenue, Mill Valley

Less than 1 block to the downtown Mill Valley square, this new construction, 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath green home is the perfect combination of location, style and attention to detail.

LaurelwoodMillValley.com

$1,895,000

Bernard Link 415.336.8676

Madrona Avenue, Belvedere

Wonderful home featuring decks on both levels and floor-to-ceiling windows which provide tremendous views of Tiburon, Belvedere Lagoon and Angel Island. 3bd/2ba on a street-to-street lot.

50Madrona.com

$1,685,000

Michael Cohen

415.602.9969

Fawn Court, San Anselmo Sleek, mid-century modern. 4bd/3.5ba one level, renovated home on over .5 acre level lot in rare & coveted Sleepy Hollow location. Gated, private, huge front and back yards for play, delightful guest house/home office.

2FawnCourt.com

$1,895,000

Stephanie Lamarre 415.806.3176

Red Hill Circle, Tiburon Stunning, 3bd/2.5ba home with exquisite views of SF, Angel Island and Belvedere. Gated entry, flowing floor plan, spacious kitchen, step-down living room with fireplace, private patio and a 2-car garage.

104RedHillCircle.com

$1,750,000

Kathleen White 415.755.8300

Hillcrest Avenue, Larkspur

Situated down a long driveway, this 4bd home features a view, pool and Kentfield schools. The .23+/-acre lot provides privacy and great outdoor entertaining spaces. Main level master and lower level media room.

If

45Hillcrest.com

$1,599,000

Julie Leitzell

Julie Leitzell.com

Greenfield Court, Mill Valley

Desirable, one-level with large spacious rooms. 3bd/2.5ba, hardwood, updated kitchen, family room, large and sunny level lot with a pool. On a private court with 8 houses, large shared park & barbecue area.

$1,475,000 Linda Esposito 415.710.6552

Offered at $1,995,000

Whatever Your Real Estate Needs, I am Here to Help You Honestly and Professionally

You Deserve:

An

An

An

Your GOAL is My GOAL!

Trust

COLDWELL BANKER

From the exclusive enclaves of Belvedere to the charming bungalows in Mill Valley and grand estates in Ross, Coldwell Banker Marin represents some of our area’s finest properties. There’s a reason why time and again, more people choose Coldwell Banker for their real estate needs. Coldwell Banker’s Previews International luxury marketing program is responsible for $86.1 million in luxury home sales every day*. And with a presence of 3,100 offices in 51 countries around the globe—far more than our nearest competitor—our clients have the confidence of knowing that whether it’s here, across town or the country, we have their real estate needs handled. When it comes to local luxury real estate, Coldwell Banker Marin sets the bar—and then raises it. Connect with Coldwell Banker Marin’s team of luxury professionals and become a member of our valued and prestigious clientele.

80 Via Los Altos, Tiburon • Offered at $3,800,000

80ViaLosAltos.com

Prominently sited in one of Tiburon’s more desirable subdivisions, this exceptional contemporary residence presents brilliant, world class views from Berkeley, the Bay Bridge, San Francisco Skyline, Sausalito and the Bay. The exciting and dramatic floor plan offers discerning buyers 4 bedrooms/3.5 baths, breakfast and family rooms. The distinctive features include 10’ ceilings, modern lines, expansive windows and sliders, skylights, sundrenched swimming pool/spa, patios, decks, level lawns, hardwood floors and 2-car garage. For a more in-depth list of special and tasteful amenities, please view the property website: www.80ViaLosAltos.com

Karyn Erickson Battenberg

707.525.9901

kbattenberg@fhallen.com

BRE: #01729678

We believe that finding a home is more than just searching houses. It’s about discovering an area, learning a neighborhood, and adopting a community. McGuire.com provides tools that allow you to go beyond the search, without leaving the search. And now, that search can deliver the roadmap that takes you home.

You might not know what you’re looking for, but now you know where to find it, mcguire.com

30 Meadow Hill, Tiburon Offered at $3,800,000 ocated in one of the most prestigious neighborhoods, this is truly one of Tiburon s finest estates. weeping olden ate Bridge, an rancisco, Belvedere agoon and ichardson Bay views abound from this square foot residence located on a private and gated . acre lot. ewly remodeled and offering an open floor plan with cathedral ceilings and walls of glass, this residence is complete with hardwood floors, infinity lympic sized lap pool, generator, air conditioning, ample parking and all day sun. oveted eed chool istrict.

Style Estate in Tiburon

www.60VistaTiburon.com

www.185Seadrift.com

185 Seadrift Road, Stinson Beach offered at $1,899,000

As you enter through the front gate with the sweet scent of lavender in the air, the private inner courtyard and patio welcomes you to this wonderful waterfront 3BR, 3.5BA home on the Seadrift Lagoon with a true beach feel. pen floor plan, secluded garden and patio, waterside decks and views of the water and Bolinas Ridge. Perfect at home vacation getaway complete with water toys.

10 Mohawk Ave, Corte Madera listed for $1,059,000 Sold Represented Buyer

Charming Madera Gardens 3BR, 2BA turnkey home with gracious courtyard entry and French doors opening to expansive outdoor entertaining areas. Remodeled throughout with hardwood floors, crown moldings and a chef’s kitchen. Private master suite with sitting area and bath. Arbor covered back patio and level lawn.

$2,795,000

This sophisticated home located in the hills of Larkspur is reminiscent of Tuscany. Custom built in 2008 with stunning attention to detail. Open the front door into a spacious entry and curved stairway leading to the main level that is open and bright and focused on the water views. Exceptionally high ceilings on this level are accented with custom molding. The kitchen features slab granite counters and birds eye maple cabinets. There is a deck off the kitchen perfect for relaxing and gazing at the glorious view and dining al fresco.

The dazzling great room will take your breath away. Accented by rich cherry wood floors, a fireplace, balcony, wet bar with built in wine refrigerator, an adjacent patio, this is where you will want to live! And the night views are spectacular!

Continue up a curved stairway to a gracious entry that welcomes you to the bedroom level. Two en suite bedrooms are spacious and inviting –one with its own deck and the other with doors leading to the rear patio with stairs to the lawn above and roof deck with barbecue, perfect for dramatic entertaining. Another spacious bedroom off the hall is focused on the views. The master suite completes this level and is the perfect retreat. It features a sumptuous master bath with a spa tub looking out to the water view, double sinks, a huge shower and marble counters and floor. It offers two walk-in closets and doors leading to the back patio.

An abundance of parking (two attached one-car garages plus multiple spaces on the flat drive) and storage make this home in the hills uniquely convenient and designed for easy living. Just down the hill is the charming village of Larkspur with its popular restaurants and shops. Easy commute to San Francisco by car or ferry.

High ceilings and lots of glass provide an atmosphere of volume and light. This distinctive home is truly a work of art. Be prepared to fall in love! www.162marinavista.com

Nestled at the bottom of the Willow Camp trail, neighboring GGNRA open space, the “Sans Souci” estate is now available on the public market for the first time in over 40 years. Named by former owner Jerry Garcia, “Sans Souci” means “without compare” and is loosely translated to mean “no worries.” Spectacular 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean are as far reaching as San Francisco, the Farrallon Islands and the most Western tip of California’s coast. The lodge-like layout on ±1.1 acre is comprised of a newly built three-bedroom, two and one-half bath main residence, the carriage house that has been remodeled to include a bedroom with one bath, and the original studio with bath –notably Jerry’s recording studio. Wonderful indoor-outdoor living in this retreat-like compound with impeccably maintained grounds, pool, spa, decks, and stone patio with fireplace. Total of five bedrooms, four and one half baths, and less than a ten-minute walk to the beach… $3,995,000

agnificent ated Kent oodlands state

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

$4,250,000

Style uxury Convenience in San Anselmo

Breathtaking views of Mt. Tam, the Seminary and San Francisco Bay highlight this spacious four bedroom, three and one-half bath home, minutes from downtown San Anselmo. Special features include gated entry, cathedral ceilings, hardwood floors, office and gym. Entertain in the spacious chef s kitchen with gas stove, double oven, warming drawer and indoor grill. Peaceful and private lush grounds with mature fruit trees lead to pool and hot tub with waterfall. Freshly painted. Award winning San Anselmo schools. Attached two car garage. ot to be missed!

One of a Kind roperty in San Anselmo

This is the rare opportunity to own two homes plus a detached studio on two adjoining parcels just blocks from downtown. ou will be delighted by the attention to detail and quality craftsmanship in this Anawalt designed estate. The main house features a master suite with spa-like bath, hardwood floors, cathedral ceilings, stone fireplace, and a flat, spacious back yard in a creek side setting. There is a detached two room studio with cathedral ceilings & adjacent to the studio is another parcel, with a private 1BR/1BA home. The peaceful grounds are truly magical and a delight for entertaining, with beautiful gardens, fountains and Mt. Tam views.

at $1,995,000

Home Sweet Home San Anselmo

This delightful four bedroom, two bath, San Anselmo home offers a wonderful blend of indoor and outdoor living. Features include a spacious chef s kitchen, master suite and living room with cozy fireplace. Enjoy peace and privacy from the two large patios and views of Sleepy Hollow from the terraced gardens and sun drenched decks. Attached 2 car garage & laundry room. Minutes to town, great trails and San Anselmos award winning schools.

This lovingly renovated home is ideally located close to 101, Bon Air Shopping Center and the Woodland Market. The open floor plan is flooded with natural from 7 skylights. Get cozy with 3 fireplaces, vaulted ceilings and views of Mt. Tam. Family living will easy with a great room, living room, family room and large usable backyard with lawn and patios. The 5th bedroom can easily be used as a separate 1 BR legal rental with kitchen, den, separate entrance and private garden patio. Award winning Kentfield School District! www.5Ashave.com

at $1,450,000

The first impression created by this home is delightful with the stunning architecture, cedar siding and dramatic windows. Featuring a bright, open floor plan with a true great room and 2-story beamed ceilings. The rear deck with spa provides a lovely outdoor dining and barbecue area overlooking the woods. The open kitchen offers stainless appliances, a gas range-oven & granite counters. The first floor has 2BR/1BA and laundry; upstairs has a master bedroom with a stone bathroom and an open loft - great for office or nursery. Located close to downtown and near beautiful Deer Park and in the highly desired Ross Valley School District.

at $839,000

Trailside Terror

WA series of eight slayings kept hikers at home. BY

JIM WOOD

ITHIN 15 MONTHS, seven women and one man were found murdered in Marin’s scenic backcountry. The killing spree began in the fall of 1979. Four of the murders occurred on Mount Tamalpais, another four in the Point Reyes National Seashore area. Most episodes included sexual assaults, stabbings and/or shots to the back of the head. The attacks continued into the spring of 1981, when two more women were murdered in Santa Cruz County. “Terror gripped the county for well over a year as a sex killer stalked the trails of Marin,” recalls Nels Johnson, who covered the story for the Marin Independent Journal. “As the body count mounted, gun sales boomed and only a very few went

hiking.” In his coverage Johnson dubbed the assailant “the Trailside Killer,” a name that caught on nationwide. In May 1981, David Joseph Carpenter, a 51-year-old print shop employee with a history of violent sex crimes — including two convictions with time served in prison — was arrested in his San Francisco home. Seven years later he was convicted of five of the murders and is now on San Quentin’s death row. This past summer, the novel After Her by former Mill Valley resident Joyce Maynard, who based the story on the serial murders, was released; the book has received positive reviews. m

Terra Mortgage Banking

Pierre Masquelier (415) 389-6558

PMasquelier@TerraMB.com

Larkspur Headquarters (415) 925-9900

FHA Lender

Bridge Loans

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 long time Marin resident Pierre Masquelier pictured above.

Pierre joined Terra because he believes local borrowers should have access to a local direct lender. Terra only works with local appraisers, provides genuine loan approvals and guarantees accelerated purchase closing times. Our new and exclusive Bridge Loan Program can help you buy a home before selling 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 Pierre.

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.