Marin Magazine August 2020

of the County 2020

The Cooperative Cleaning Company (CCC) delivers superior green housekeeping services while providing employees with compensation, health care, and paid time off benefits xceeding the industry average. A native of France, owner Sarah Neil holds a master’s in anthropology from the Sorbonne in Paris and speaks eight languages. Mike Neil, a fourth-generation San Franciscan, spent 30 years in IT before “retiring” to help with CCC. And when not studying at university, daughter Roxane Raphael rounds out the ownership team.

The Cooperative Cleaning Company, 510-845-0003, CoopCleaning@gmail.com, CooperativeCleaning.com

For more up-to-the-minute articles, subscribe to our Better Letter and follow us online at @marinmagazine and marinmagazine.com.

FEATURES 26

First Person

Writer Nancy Chung Hooper tells the life story of “The Man in the Window,” her neighbor who she only got to know during shelter-in-place.

31

Best of the County

Our annual section of top recreation, dining, drinks, arts and entertainment, and beauty and wellness, curated by local experts.

73

Go: Tahoe

Underwater adventures in Emerald Bay State Park, dozens of bike trails to check out and restaurants to try on your next trip to the mountains.

EAT & DRINK

77

Eat & Drink

The innovative outdoor dining programs cities throughout the county have rolled out to welcome back customers safely.

79

Dine

Listings of Marin and San Francisco restaurants — most of them offering delivery or takeout options.

IN MARIN

17

Currents

A comet lighting up the sky, the Marin Art and Garden Center turns 75, updates from Marin Humane and important tree info.

22

FYI

Martin Griffin, who recently turned 100, played a key role in protecting Marin’s open spaces — and continues to advocate for nature.

MARIN HOME

93

Backstory

A spacious hillside home with spectacular views in Mill Valley’s Homestead Valley neighborhood.

COLUMNS

12 Letter from the Editor

122 Reflections

Outdoor Dining Best of the County

CEO & PUBLISHER

Susan B. Noyes

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Mimi Towle

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Brooke Geiger McDonald

SENIOR DIGITAL EDITOR

Jessica Gliddon

MANAGING EDITOR - BAY AREA

Kasia Pawlowska

MANAGING EDITOR - CHICAGO

Macaire Douglas

DINING EDITOR

Christina Mueller

ASSISTANT EDITORS

Madison Muller, Sabrina Tuton-Filson

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Kate DeLong, Isabella Gri ffi n-Masri, Sydney Pearson

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Dawn Denberg, Nancy Chung Hopper, Carrie Kirby, Zack Ruskin, Anne-Christine Strugnell Art

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Lisa Hilgers, Tonya Weiland Sut fi n

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Alex French

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kate DeLong, David Duncan Livingston, Tim Porter Administration

CIVIC DEVELOPMENT Sharon Krone

CONTROLLER Maeve Walsh

Volume 16, Issue 8. Marin Magazine is published in Marin County by Marin Magazine Inc. owned by Make It Better Media LLC. All rights reserved. Copyright©2020. Reproduction of Marin Magazine content is prohibited without the expressed, written consent of Marin Magazine Inc. Unsolicited materials cannot be returned. Marin Magazine reserves the right to refuse to publish any advertisement deemed detrimental to the best interests of the community or that is in questionable taste. Marin Magazine is mailed monthly to homes and businesses in Marin County.

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

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Media

MEDIA DIRECTOR

Leah Bronson | lbronson@marinmagazine.com

SENIOR MEDIA CONSULTANT

Lesley Cesare | lcesare@marinmagazine.com

MEDIA CONSULTANT

Sharon Coleman | scoleman@marinmagazine.com

STRATEGIC EVENTS AND MEDIA CONSULTANT

Jennifer Woolford | events@better.net

MARKETING MANAGER

Natasha Romanoff | atasha@marinmagazine.com

MEDIA ART MANAGER Alex French

Regional Sales O ffices

WINE COUNTRY

Lesley Cesare | lcesare@marinmagazine.com

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA / TAHOE

Leah Bronson | lbronson@marinmagazine.com

NEW YORK

Karen Couture, Couture Marketing | 917.821.4429

HAWAII

Debbie Anderson, Destination Marketing | 808.739.2200

Reader Services

MAILING ADDRESS

One Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965 PHONE 415.332.4800 FAX 415.332.3048

INQUIRIES

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

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

SUBSCRIPTIONS

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BULK ORDERS

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

CHIEF VISIONARY OFFICER

Susan B. Noyes

SCHEDULE IN-PERSON AND VIDEO APPOINTMENTS NOW!

Working together for the Health of the North Bay.

Working together to fight COVID-19.

At MarinHealthSM, we believe in going above and beyond to provide our community with the best possible care. Our strategic alliance with UCSF Health enables us to collaborate to provide exceptional care— in our Medical Network Clinics, in key hospital programs, and in our response to the COVID -19 Pandemic.

Our leadership teams and experts are regularly communicating to face the Coronavirus crisis head on. We are sharing data and research. We are exchanging ideas and best practices. And we are committed to working together to provide an effective and timely response.

Together, we are doing all we can to offer a Healing Place dedicated to serving our community well.

Learn more about our alliance at www.MyMarinHealth.org/partnerships

Current MarinHealth Medical Network patients, call your provider’s office. If you need a doctor, we can help you find one—call 1-888-MarinHC (1-888-627-4642).

“MarinHealth” and the MarinHealth logo are servicemarks of Marin General Hospital and used with permission.

SCHEDULE IN-PERSON AND VIDEO APPOINTMENTS NOW!

View from Our Team

Best of the County 2020

It's an August we will never forget, let's make the best of it.

When we first discussed doing a Best of the County issue on a Zoom call, it looked like our entire team had a collective head-tilted-mouth-open freeze moment. What can we write about? We’ve all been sequestered; most busi nesses are in limbo waiting out the coronavirus. Aptly, we thought to check in with recipients from the past two years to see how they are handling this crisis. And then we got to work, and reached out to a few vetted experts for their picks too.

As I looked through the old issues, I remembered each iteration of our ode to Marin County, and recalled when our former art director, Veronica Sooley, and I both shouted in unison, “We can write it on the cake!" This was referring to our 2013 Editor’s Choice cover, when Susie Cakes moved to the Bon Air Shopping Center. The cover was shot by Tim Porter, who single-handedly decorated our pages with his beautiful photography in the early years.

This feature has been a collective effort from the get-go, relying on the deep ties each of us has to the community. In sales, Leah Bronson grew up in the wine country, but moved here in 2000, where she met her hus band Scott, volleyball coach extraordinaire, from Sausalito. Leah brought in Bronson family friend Calin Van Paris, who graced us with her Mill Val ley sensibilities for years. Our lovely Lesley Cesare grew up in San Rafael and was brought in by our beloved queen-of-Marin-bee, Michele Johnson, who we keep trying to lure back from retirement. After living in Mill Valley for 20 years, our newest team member, Sharon Coleman, now LOVES Bel Marin Keys. The woman who keeps these women on deadline is Production Director Alex French, who has called Mill Valley home for 28 years. And the sweet Irish voice you might hear if you owe us money is controller, Maeve Walsh, who has raised her two daughters in Mill Valley with husband Tom, a multi-generational Marinite. Our millennial marketing team of one, Na

tasha Romanoff grew up in Novato and San Anselmo and is living in her happy place in a cottage in Woodacre, not far from where her parents grew up. We actually interviewed her grandfather, Andrew Romanoff (the man who could have been Czar of Russia, had things been different) in 2015.

In our digital editorial department we have San Francisco residents, Jes sica Gliddon, who is a 5th generation Bay Area resident who grew up visiting her great aunt in Tiburon, and Kasia Pawlowska. Kasia, in particular, has probably done more exploring of our county in the past five years than most natives do in a lifetime. From scaling muddy hillsides to forage for mushrooms, walking census tracts before sunrise to count the homeless, trying out standup paddle boarding for the first time — in a race! — she has even been invited to speak at San Quentin after someone read her story on psychedelic treatment for PTSD. Our newest member of the team is recent college graduate and former intern, Sabrina Tuton-Filson of Lark spur. Speaking of interns, three this summer, were integral in helping us put out four magazines during the #SummerOfChange, Isabella Griffin-Masri, Sydney Pearson and Kate DeLong. Kate's mother is Mo, who many of you will know from any event we’ve hosted — she’s the cute, sassy photogra pher, who will make sure you look your best.

I think that leaves me. I joined the Marin Magazine team on day one when my mother Nikki and stepfather, Jim Wood, joined forces with sales whiz,

Contributors

Jeff Burkhart - Bartender, Writer, Barfly Podcast, Marin IJ columnist

IN THIS ISSUE: BEST OF THE COUNTY – DRINKS

Lisa Shanower, back in 2004. I’ve been honored to head up the editorial de partment for the past decade and am proud of our small and mighty team as we’ve collected multiple editorial awards, as well as art, thanks to former art director, Rachel Griffiths. Despite the fact that my great, greats were 49ers (the real ones, not football that I know of), my ex-husband’s Pete is the one with deep (5 generations) roots here. When we lived in the city as newlyweds, we would often come to Marin to hike. Fast forward to 2020, he lives in a tree house, I live on a houseboat, and we have two beautiful Tam High graduates.

In 2017, Marin Magazine was purchased by Susan Noyes, of Make it Better Media, not only because of the similarities she saw in Marin to her home on the North Shore of Chicago, but because of her husband Nick’s deep Marin roots. His mother, Clara Rideout Noyes, was a Branson grad and received an outstanding alumnae award at the same ceremony as Ju lia Child! So as you can see, we represent Marin’s Gen Zs to the Boomers and beyond.

Onto our Best of the County, 2020 issue — chock-a-block full of the people, businesses and places that make our county (we think) the best place to live on the planet. As always, we love your feedback on social me dia @marinmagazine or email mtowle@marinmagazine.com

Mimi Towle , editor

Troy Quintillan-Rios - Restaurateur, Instagram Influencer

IN THIS ISSUE: BEST OF THE COUNTY – FOOD

Anne-Christine Strugnell - Writer, Climate Advocate, Contributor to MORE Magazine, Self, Christian Science Monitor, and the Cup of Comfort series

IN THIS ISSUE: “REBEL WITH A CAUSE TURNS 100”

Paul Austin - Play Marin founder and CEO, Community Liaison for Luminate Capital Partners, LuluLemon Ambassador

IN THIS ISSUE: BEST OF THE COUNTY – RECREATION

Big thanks to our summer interns!

Zack Ruskin - Freelance Reporter, Contributor to Vanity Fair, Merry Jane, San Francisco Chronicle, Alta Journal of California, Billboard, Entertainment Weekly and Cannabis Now

IN THIS ISSUE: BEST OF THE COUNTY – ARTS

Sydney Kate

Isabella

ONLINE

“What a brilliant list! The pie looks truly amazing. THANK YOU so very much @marinmagazine,” – @ttcsonoma via Instagram in response to our “5 Things to do Now” post.

“Love you guys at Marin Magazine. You do a great job! From the actual print to the IG feed, you are really doing great! Thank you.” – @ aliconig via Instagram in response to our Fourth of July post.

“Yes @marinmagazine! Thank you for shining the light on this ESSENTIAL topic! THIS is the year Juneteenth becomes a national holiday.” – @alohazengirl via Instagram in response to our Juneteenth post.

“Damn I miss Stinson! Riding the mountain bike up Tam and down the Dipsea (oops) to get some fish and chips and relax on the sand... such a dream,” – @downtoexplore via Instagram in response to our Marin Magazine Decathlon post.

“Fun fact: this story is also cited as a source in the third season

of Slate’s “Slow Burn” podcast!” – @zackruskin via Instagram in response to our post about Tupac Shakur’s time in Marin.

“Just gave birth two weeks ago at Marin General. It was definitely different than my daughter’s birth in 2018. My personal and home life experience postpartum was the biggest difference. I missed my mom the most. She retired out of the country so she was not able to travel.” – @breelynne via Instagram in response to our “Giving Birth in the Time of COVID-19” post.

“My sister had her baby mid-May. She didn’t get to have a baby shower, so the family all scrambled to make sure she had everything she needed. Also, they had to stay a little longer so the baby didn’t get jaundiced, but her husband had to leave the hospital. It was heartbreaking hearing her cry because she was alone in the hospital with her newborn.” – @aebcreativestudio via Instagram in response to our “Giving Birth in the Time of COVID-19” post.

PRINT

PRINT, PLEASE

Super bummed that Marin Magazine is moving to a primarily digital format. There’s been nothing better than having your wonderful print magazine to look forward to each month. I love it! But we all spend more than enough time online, especially during the pandemic! I probably won’t read Marin Magazine online, as I am REALLY maxed-out with online content and my eyes get tired. Maybe I’m alone in this opinion, but I had to voice it in case it makes a difference. Thank you for listening!

– Heather McCorkindale, Tiburon

Editor Response: Thank you Heather! We will be doing both print and online, we just wanted to point out our new and improved website...perhaps we were a bit overzealous.

A BIGGER VISION

As a lifelong resident of Marin County, I admit I’m huge fan of Marin Magazine. I always enjoy your in-depth articles and stories, especially those featuring local businesses and their owners. But as a black man who was born at Marin General, went to school and grew up in this county, I’m equally disappointed that within your glossy pages, I rarely find any articles fea turing businesses or owners of color.

As a matter of fact, I rarely see any diversity within “Marin” magazine. I’ve had several friends and family members often remark that “Marin” magazine is focused on the privileged white culture throughout the county. While it pains me to hear this, I can see why some might think that. Of course, growing up here, I realize that this county’s more affluent citizens are indeed majority white. Nevertheless, I would hope that you would use your very powerful platform to also include all of Marin, the minority as well. Given the current state of the country, I (as a resident and black

business owner) would hope that your magazine, which I truly appreciate, would like to expand your visual approach to include more of what makes up Marin County. – Tony Revada, Novato

Editor Response: Thank you Tony, we will do better.

KUDOS TO MARINHEALTH

Hello. I am a Tiburon resident. I contracted Covid-19 and had a pretty rough go of it, including a week at MarinHealth Medical Center (MGH). I was quite ill, but, fortunately, I isolated at home for nearly two weeks.

I wrote a letter to the hospital shortly after I came home. I was remarkably impressed by the care I received…so much so that I thought I needed to say “thank you,” and did so by writing it.

The reason I am sharing it with you? You are a publication all about Marin County. Perhaps it will be of interest to you or your readers. There is a paucity of good news at the moment, as we are all aware. I have nothing to gain in any way nor do I care to. These front line workers are amazing, and I just wanted to thank them, not with wishes, but with a very specific statement.

– Patrick Sherwood, Tiburon

RECENT SURGE

One need only look at the photo on page 26 of your July issue of the 1,500 protesters who with good intentions sought the need to “do something” about racial issues not observing social distancing and many not wearing masks to understand the cause of the recent surge in COVID-19 cases in Marin. Most of the new cases are young people under age 35. Let’s see a follow up story on tracking how many of the most recent cases of COVID-19 were people who attended a protest rally or were in close contact with someone who did.

– David Berger, San Rafael

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! or on social media @marinmagazine

NEW IN TOWN

BISCUITS & BUNS

Vegan and gluten-free friendly, this bakery in Terra Linda serves biscuits and sweet buns of both classic and unique varietals. House favorite condiments and Pink Owl Coffee with dairy-free milk options are also available to complete your breakfast, snack, or light lunch purchase. Order online for curbside pickup.

641 Del Granado Road, San Rafael, 415.634.5560, biscuitsandbuns.com

PERFECT PROVENANCE

This award-winning lifestyle store from Greenwich, CT just opened their second location in Tiburon. With new shipments arriving every week, Perfect Provenance allows you to browse men and women’s designer fashion, home decor and gifts from around the world.

30 Main Street, Tiburon, 415.797.6054, theperfectprovenance.com

MADGE & ME HATS

Marin native Laurie Berliner opened her handmade hat shop earlier this year and has recently re-opened in the midst of COVID. This atelier sells fine and fancy one-of-a-kind felt and straw hats, as well as custom pieces, for women, men and children.Hat repair services are also available, so you know your favorite hat will last.

506 San Anselmo Avenue, San Anselmo, 415.497.5244, madgeandme.com

CELEBRIDUCKS

What started as a side project back in 1997, CelebriDucks, now the top collectible rubber duck manufacturer, has launched a new PVC-free, Phthalate-free, BPA-free and latex-free rubber duck teething toy for infants — Good Ducks. Made 100% in America using the highest quality materials, this Marin County business is making babies (and parents) everywhere happy. 707.289.4000, celebriducks.com

COST

FIND OUT MORE

artworks. This year, it will be easier and safer to purchase the “book” you love from the comfort of your own home. Bid online during the Silent Auction and join us Aug. 29 at 7 p.m. for the live auction. Collect an original Altered Book and support the museum. Free 415.506.0137, marinmoca.org

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

Bay Area events you’ll want to attend

marinmagazine.com COMMUNITY GUIDES

Top Online Stories

Fighting for Change Writer Kirsten Jones Neff tells the story of how three young women in Marin organized a protest in support of the Black Lives Matter movement in only four days. Neff covers how the protest came together, how it unfolded, and also goes into the county’s long history of discrimi nation. This was the top article on our site last month.

Voices: Vern Glenn You've seen his writing in our pages over the years — KPIX sportscaster and Marin resident Vern Glenn shared his thoughts about racism in the county and what it’s like being one of 0.32% of Black people living in Mill Valley. We received many com ments and emails from readers thanking Glenn for telling his story.

Tupac’s Life in Marin Several years ago, writer Zack Ruskin looked into the time hip-hop legend Tupac Shakur spent in Marin County. Shakur lived in Marin City and attended Tamalpais High his junior and part of his senior year. We posted the article on what would have been the late rapper’s 49th birthday — it was shared over 200 times on Instagram.

Crafting the Perfect H ome This happens with many iterations Writer Tate Gunnerson follows a family’s journey that started in 2016 with a significant interior remodel of their Homestead Valley mid-century dwelling. Now, four years later, they have completed the fi nishing touches — the expansion of their outdoor living.

CELEBRATING THE PEOPLE, PLACES AND CAUSES OF THIS UNIQUE COUNTY

SOARING IN THE SKY

Comet NEOWISE captures the attention of the Bay Area and reminds us that we’re merely a spec in the universe.

BY KASIA PAWLOWSKA

In late March, astronomers discovered a comet using NASA’s NearEarth Object Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (NEOWISE), and dubbed it just that. Officially named C/2020 F3, the comet has been dazzling crowds in the Northern Hemisphere since its initial appearance. Something that makes this massive 3 mile wide hunk of ice, rock and dust so special is that while we can see it in our skies until August, it won’t return for another 6,800 years. Among the photographers who turned out on Mount Tamalpais to get a shot was Victor Volta. “I rolled out of my warm toasty bed, made some strong coffee and drove from Alameda so I could get in position by 4 a.m.,” says Volta. “Once I shook off the initial grogginess, I was filled with excitement, especially after seeing the comet the previous morning.”

Here are more celestial events taking place this month from seasky.org.

August 11, 12

Perseids Meteor Shower

The Perseids is one of the best meteor showers to observe, producing up to 60 meteors per hour at its peak. It is produced by comet Swift-Tuttle, which was discovered in 1862. The Perse ids are famous for producing a large number of bright meteors. The shower runs annually from July 17 to August 24. It peaks this year on the night of the 11th and morning of the 12th. The second quarter moon will block out some of the fainter meteors this year, but the Perseids are so bright and numerous that it should still be a good show. Best viewing will be from a dark location after midnight.

August 13

Venus at Greatest Western Elongation

The planet Venus reaches greatest western elongation 45.8 degrees from the Sun. This is the best time to view Venus since it will be at its highest point above the horizon in the morning sky. Look for the bright planet in the eastern sky before sunrise.

MARIN ART AND GARDEN CENTER TURNS 75

Get to know the community garden space in the center of Marin County, where the Marin County Fair was held for over 20 years.

BY SABRINA TUTON-FILSON

While COVID-19 has delayed 75th anniversary plans for the Marin Art and Garden Center, it’s worth taking note of the multitude of ways this beautiful, historic site has enriched the lives of those in our community. Before lockdown, the 11-acre garden space was the site for concerts, seminars, art shows, plays, weddings, school outings, summer camps, memorials, business retreats and more. It has and always will be a place to hang out and enjoy nature — no matter what age.

Did you know?

• The Marin County Fair was held on the property from 1947 to 1970.

• It is one of the few places on the planet with three species of redwoods: a Dawn Redwood (planted from seed in 1947), a Giant Sequoia (brought from Yosemite Valley in the 1880s), and a Coastal Redwood.

• The beautiful Dawn Redwood was thought to have become extinct millions of years ago until discovered in China in 1941 and planted at the Marin Art and Garden Center six years later.

• Their rose garden has over 150 varieties of roses.

• Much of the irrigation water comes from a well on the property that is replenished by rain each year.

• Barn owl and bat boxes are installed on the property to provide natural, safe and effective pest control.

• Forty-five varieties of birds live on the property, from the Warbling Vireo and Northern Flicker to the Yellow-rumped Swallow and Rubycrowned Kinglet.

• The property has several examples of structures from mid-century Bay Area architects and land scape designers, notably Don Emmons, Thomas Church, Gardner Dailey and Robert Royston.

• The Pixie Park playground was founded in 1952 by environmental educator and legendary natu ralist Elizabeth Terwilliger (fondly known as “Mrs. T”).

Event at Marin Art and Garden Center (Pre-Covid)

For more information on gardens, visit marinmagazine.com/ garden

AND THE MEDAL GOES TO...

Back in June we encouraged you, our readers, to take part in a number of Olympic sports and challenges throughout the county to earn money for PlayMarin — anyone who completed five by the end of July banked $100 for the nonprofit. PlayMarin gives kids of diverse ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds from the broader Marin community the opportunity to play, learn, and grow together. We also promised to feature winners on our community podium for all to celebrate, and here they are! Go to #2020MarinOlympics on Instagram for fun photos of participants. As press time, the amount raised was $5,000. Go Marin!

Kristen Addicks

Ben Baker

Roxie Baker

John Baker

Charlene Bayles

Bronson family (2)

Naya Calmels

Heidi Carman

Claudia Cowan

Lesley Cesare

Victoria Cressman

Kathy Denison

Tess Denison

Esslinger family (5)

Liz Fein

Holly Harris

Will Hoppin

Kristen Kotik (2)

Mich Lowe

Stephanie Martin

Diane McKone

Luis Molina

Christina Mueller

Sam Neff

Teya Neff

Kristen Jones Neff

Robinson family (3)

Rossini family (2)

Joan Steidinger

Cora Swanson

Melissa Thurner

Mimi Towle

Natalie Towle

Walsh family (3)

Kathy Winkler

Yu family (4)

What's New at Marin Humane

Looking to give a lucky cat or dog — or guinea pig — their forever home? Even though the process has changed, you can still adopt through Marin Humane. When shelter-in-place was ordered on March 16, the organiza tion shifted gears like many others around the country. “We began send ing all our animals into trusted foster homes so that we could have as few staff as possible working at the shelter,” says Lisa Bloch, Director of Mar keting and Communications. This didn’t mean operations ceased by any means. A core group of staff remained at the shelter to care for animals who were under veterinary care or otherwise couldn’t go to foster homes, and Animal Services like wildlife rescue, lost and found, and cruelty com plaints continued to be provided around the clock.

An unfortunate sign of the times, one facet of Marin Humane grew sig nificantly. “Our Pet Safety Net program which provides free pet food and

supplies for those needing it saw a huge increase in requests,” says Bloch. “We also began home deliveries to those in our Pet Safety Net program so that they could safely shelter-at-home with their pets and not have to worry — normally these clients would come to the shelter to pick these items up.”

Dog training courses, the humane education program and the spay/ neuter clinic were all closed, as well as the in-person summer camp and the popular music benefit, Woofstock. Fortunately, other programs have gone virtual, including the summer camp and the upcoming big GALA in September. Prospective pet owners can’t drop in anymore and now need to schedule adoptions by appointment, but Bloch says they’re undeterred. “A tremendous amount of people contacted us about fostering or adopt ing!” Here are some of them. marinhumane.org BY KASIA PAWLOWSKA

Even though there were no Olympics this year, many still went for gold in the Marin Magazine Decathlon. BY KASIA PAWLOWSKA

IT’S TIME TO CHECK YOUR TREES

August is National Tree Check Month. Here’s how to spot and stop tree-killing insects and other ailments.

BY SABRINA TUTON-FILSON

Aside from summer and early fall being part of wildfire season, there is another reason for us all to pay attention to the trees around us — invasive insects and fungus. The Coast Live Oak and Monterey Pine are particularly susceptible in the Bay Area, so we spoke with a local arborist about what to look for and how to prevent such damage. Here’s how we can all pitch in to prevent this safety problem. In any of these cases, it’s best to snap a picture of the potential concern so that an expert can diagnose it virtually.

Coast Live Oak — What to Look for:

• Sawdust at the base of trees from borer beetles that follow Sudden Oak Death fungal infections.

• Trees dying, yet holding onto their brown leaves.

• Quarter-sized oily black spots on the trunk. What to Do: Infected trees likely must be removed. Remove ivy and excess soil from the base of trees. Consult an Arborist to create a management plan.

Monterey Pine — What to Look for:

• Signs and symptoms of Red Turpentine Beetles, which can appear as sawdust at the base of trees.

• Pitch Canker, a fungal disease, which creates tubes at the base of the trunk that look like chewing gum.

• Excessive cones in the upper canopy.

• Needles fading from dark green to yellow to brown.

What to Do: Infected trees can be treated by a professional until the needle color fades dramatically. Supplemental deep watering once a month can help trees through the summer.

General Tree-Health Tips for Tree-Owners:

• Water new trees deeply no more than once a week.

• Have large trees examined every few years by a certified arborist.

• Prune trees that extend over your house every 3-5 years.

Call a Certified Arborist If You Notice:

• Dead branches, tips or leaves

• Few or no leaves

CAMPING ESSENTIALS flung vacations mostly off the table this year but thanks to the bounty of the Bay Area and the wonder of the great outdoors. Here are some items that you can pick camping game as summer winds down. BY KASIA PAWLOWSKA

Adidas SST Track Pants, $65, nordstrom.com

You can’t go wrong with the signature three-stripe style. With their side-zip pockets and elastic waist, these sporty-essentials will have you looking cool in the grocery store or on the trail.

Andalou Age Defying DIY Booster SPF 30, $20, andalou.com

Novato-based Andalou nails it with this broad spectrum SPF. Ideal for daily use and packed with super antioxidants and a fruit stem cell complex, it will keep your face protected without a greasy feel.

*check

Banks Journal Murphy Fleece, $85, neveandhawk.com

Keep warm on chilly nights in this boxy zip-up fleece. Cut from warm and cozy high-pile, this jacket features an open hem front, flattering back yoke detail, and side seam welt pockets.

James Perse Y/osemite Scenic Graphic Pocket Crew, $95, jamesperse.com

This shirt comes in three colors and includes a front left chest pocket. The jersey fabric is an extremely soft knit made by treating the cotton fibers before they are spun into yarn.

Kuboraum C20 Brown Sunglasses, price upon request, rimsandgoggles.com No easier way to elevate any outfit than with a pair of sunglasses. Make a statement with these unique and flattering stunners from Kuboraum, which are made in Italy by hand.

Parks Conservancy Marin Headlands Cap, $17, store.parksconservancy.org Keep the sun out of your eyes, the wind out of your hair and represent Marin with this baseball cap. Built to last with high quality materials, it has an adjustable strap to fit anyone.

ENO DoubleNest Printed Hammock, $80, rei.com

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Rebel with a Cause Turns 100

Martin Griffin played a key role in protecting Marin’s open spaces — and continues to advocate for nature. BY ANNE-CHRISTINE STRUGNELL

DRIVE ALONG TIBURON Boulevard — but this time see it differently. See it like Dr. Martin Griffin sees it, and suddenly Lyford House isn’t just a sweet yellow Victorian, it’s headquarters of the Richardson Bay Audubon Center, overlooking the only open water sanctuary in San Francisco Bay. If the tide is low, shorebirds walk the wide mud flats of the undeveloped shore, heads down as they hunt for food. Griffin turns 100 this month, but he’s quick to notice and identify every species.

If it weren’t for Griffin and his fellow “rebels with a cause,” you wouldn’t be enjoying these

beautiful vistas from Tiburon Boulevard. Instead, you’d be zipping along a freeway to Angel Island, Alcatraz, and Telegraph Hill. There would be no hills and no wild shoreline, because in the 1950s developers would have bulldozed the hills of Tiburon to fill Richardson Bay and built a new city called Reeds Port, with housing for 10,000 people.

Fortunately, that’s not what happened, in large part because in 1957, when dredging of Richardson Bay for Reeds Port had already begun, Elizabeth Terwilliger of the Marin Audubon Society called Gri ffi n, then a young doctor living in Sausalito. “We’d like you to be

on the board of directors,” she said, adding, “I won’t take no for an answer.”

Gri ffi n jumped at the opportunity to learn from Marin’s fi rst environmentalists, notably Terwilliger and Caroline Livermore. “I literally apprenticed myself to Caroline Livermore,” he recalls. “She and her ‘ladies’ as she called them had the vision, connections, and clout to be effective, and I mobilized my medical practice and colleagues to join them in helping save the bays and lagoons of Marin County.”

It was the start of a lifetime of environmen tal activism, with Gri ffi n frequently called on

to play leading roles in preserving Richardson Bay, Bolinas Lagoon, Tomales Bay, and Point Reyes National Seashore. As part of that effort, he also had to out-maneuver those who wanted to develop a freeway system up the west coast of Marin and build a nuclear power plant straddling the San Andreas Fault in Bodega Bay. Working with other passionate conservationists and organizations including Audubon and Marin Conservation League, Gri ffi n leveraged his knowledge of wildlife, county politics, water supplies, and real estate, plus his in fluence as a respected doctor to protect the county’s environmental treasures. His go-to strategy in many of these campaigns was to look for “keystone” pieces of property which, when bought and protected, would make a larger project untenable for developers.

Gri ffi n himself was a keystone. It wasn’t he alone who saved Marin from the excesses of development. But he was an essential part of the success of the so-called “rebels with a cause.” And they were extremely successful: Their grassroots political victories protected two thirds of Marin including the encircling bays and marshlands and the Point Reyes Peninsula. They stopped the planned construction of freeways on the MarinSonoma-Mendocino coast, got the salmon rivers of the North Coast (except the Russian) protected as Wild and Scenic Rivers, ensured that every California River requires a watershed management plan, legally pre served all the state’s tidelands, and gave the public access to much of the 1,100 mile California coast.

Gri ffi n achieved all this while also maintaining a medical practice in Marin, getting a degree in public health, and working in State Hospitals, most notably earning a Governor’s Award for helping to eradicate an epidemic of hepatitis B from California’s State Hospitals.

Gri ffi n turns 100 later this month, but he’s

still busy saving Marin’s wild places — at the moment, he’s working on the issue of ranching within Point Reyes National Seashore. It took a few days to get a time to sit down with him to talk about his upcoming birthday and his reflections on a long career.

“I saw the best of wild California before World War II, and I idolized Marin and Sonoma,” he said as he settled into a chair on his back patio, which edges against Richardson Bay. He flashed a smile. “I can’t let go of any opportunity to save nature. Along with the help of the wonderful naturalists and friends I have known over the years, I think I’ve made a real difference in Northern California.”

What can you say but, “Thank you?” The hard part is saying it big enough.

If you were a young activist starting out today, what would you tackle first, why, and how? I’d do what I’m doing right now, joining in the push to end ranching in Point Reyes National Seashore. It has one of the greatest populations of elephant seals and harbor seals, and millions of birds on the flyway. But there are cattle grazing right up to the edge of the Estero and manure draining in. Ranching is important in West Marin, but we need to keep the park wild.

After winning that fight, I’d get involved in protecting other parts of the National Park Service. It’s a treasure, and it’s under threat now.

Somehow I thought you’d say climate change would be your priority.

Oh, climate change is hugely important! The need to protect Point Reyes is immediate, do-able, and would in itself reduce emissions, which is why I’d start there. I’d take on climate work alongside that, both immediately and in the long term.

You’ve made a career in public health as well as protection of the environment. How do you think Marin’s open spaces and wild coasts support public health in the county?

People are only as healthy as their habitat, same as animals. We need open space because we need earthworms, butter fl ies, and land that’s not treated with pesticides and herbicides. When I drive to Sacramento these days, there are almost no bugs on the windshield.

Clockwise from left: A young Martin Griffin; Snowy egrets

The big chemical companies seem to be unstoppable and all-powerful. I think overuse of chemicals was what led to my granddaughter Gina’s death from leukemia. She died at 15, quite possibly from all the chemicals used in the vineyards.

You haven’t won every battle you’ve fought, but you’ve got back in the ring time and again. Today’s environmentalists have been dealt some stinging setbacks in the past few years. What would you like to tell them to help them keep going?

I lost some big battles, mostly in Sonoma. But there’s always something that can be done. I’ve always tried to make a di fference and improve habitat wherever I had the opportunity. So when I bought the ranch at Hop Kiln, we did a lot to improve it and protect the Westside Road area around it from development and the growth of tra ffic. [Gri ffi n and his wife Joyce received the Healdsburg Museum and Historical Society’s award for historic preservation of an industrial enterprise in 1997]. We got the river designated as endangered. And Joyce and I gave Gina’s Orchard, a 26-acre stretch of creekside property in Sonoma, to the Bishop’s Ranch retreat center, which is across the road from Hop Kiln.

My old friend Peter Behr would say, ‘Conservation victories can be temporary, while the losses are permanent.’ That’s why in 1972, the directors of Audubon Canyon Ranch, including myself, took the fi rst steps to create an organization dedicated to training volunteers to be effective advocates for environmental planning. It was one of the most signi ficant actions of our lives because this nonprofit — the Environmental Forum of Marin — is training up new generations to protect and build on the legacy we created. Every county needs an organization dedicated to defending the natural environment at a grassroots level.

1920 Loyal Martin Griffin, Jr., was born in Ogden, Utah, in a cabin on the banks of the Ogden River. The family moved to Portland, Los Angeles, and finally Oakland, where Griffin became an Eagle Scout and attended Oakland Technical High School.

1936-1942 ROTC (Reserved Officer Training Corp High School & UC); war declared 1941.

1942 Graduated from UC Berkeley with a degree in zoology and botany.

1943 Attended Stanford Medical School — Army Specialized Training Program, ASTP.

1946 Earned MD from Stanford Medical School. Served as a commissioned Captain US Army Medical Corp — Active duty 6th Army Presidio SF.

1950-1967 Practiced in Marin County for 17 years, where he helped start the Ross Valley Clinic, Ross General Hospital, Kentfield Psychiatric Hospital, and The Tamalpais retirement center.

1960 Purchased Hop Kiln Ranch in Sonoma and began restoring it, earning National Historic Trust status.

1961 Helped found Audubon Canyon Ranch and was instrumental in purchases of key parcels which pre vented the construction of a fourlane freeway, and helped protect the wild watersheds surrounding the Point Reyes National Seashore from development. Today ACR includes 5,000 acres of wildlife sanctuaries on the watersheds of Bolinas Lagoon, the San Francisco Bay, Tomales Bay, Sonoma Creek, and the Russian and Eel Rivers.

1968 Participated in a scientific mission to Maui that laid the groundwork for the Kipahulu Valley’s inclusion into Haleakala National Park (including the Seven Sacred Pools on the coast).

1969 Became interested in public health after doing wildlife work in Nepal.

“I THINK I’VE MADE A REAL DIFFERENCE”

1972 Earned master’s degree at UC School of Public Health.

1972 Cofounded Environmental Forum of Marin.

1973 Elected as a director of the Marin Municipal Water District and helped prevent the building of a coastal aqueduct from the Russian River. This preserved 22,000 acres of watershed and native plant habitats.

1973 Found a deserted 1873 Italianate Victorian house in Fulton and moved it 20 miles across the river to his property. The County designated it a County Historic Landmark.

1975-1990 Served for 15 years as Public Health Director at the Sonoma State Hospital for developmental disorders in Glen Ellen.

1975 Founded Hop Kiln Winery on the Russian River. Intrigued by the variety of grapes he discovered at Hop Kiln Ranch, he studied winemaking techniques used in Tuscany, Sicily and Germany and became a member of the California Wine Institute. Produced 24,000 cases of award-winning wines annually.

1984 Appointed Chief of the Hepatitis B, and later AIDS, Task Force for the 11 State Hospitals. On retirement, given the Governor’s Award for successful Hepatitis B Immunization Program.

1990 Founded the Russian River Task Force in 1990 to bring under control deep pit gravel mining in the Russian River aquifer which was affecting drinking water quality in Marin and Sonoma counties, a 15-year battle. Founded the Russian River Environmental Forum, and cofounded Friends of the Russian River, now the Russian Riverkeeper. Griffin and wife Joyce gave the 45-acre Griffin Russian River Riparian Preserve to the Sonoma Land Trust and the 26-acre “Gina’s Orchard” to the Bishop’s Ranch in memory of his granddaughter Gina, who lost her battle with leukemia at age 15.

1997 Griffin and Joyce received the Healdsburg Museum and Historical Society’s award for historic preservation of an industrial enterprise (Hop Kiln).

1999 Authored Saving the Marin-Sonoma Coast: the Battles for Audubon Canyon Ranch, Point Reyes, and California’s Russian River. Received UCB School of Public Health Hero Award.

2004 Sold Hop Kiln winery.

2010 Audubon Canyon Ranch Board of Directors formally renamed the 1,000-acre preserve on Bolinas Lagoon the Martin Griffin Preserve.

2012 Worked to protect Drake’s Estero as wilderness and lobbied for closure of commercial oyster operations in the estero.

2013 Appeared in Rebels with a Cause, a documentary film on the history of the effort to save Marin County land from development.

2020 Continues his lifelong mission, now lobbying for termination of commercial ranching operations in Point Reyes National Seashore.

1963

TOP AND MIDDLE:

EMME GILMAN:

ANNE T. KENT CALIFORNIA

ROOM, MARIN COUNTY FREE LIBRARY

Istarted to look for him when his roman shades were up. An empty chair concerned me. Seeing him in it, reading his wife’s Kindle (as I would later find out), he assured me that all was well.

How many times did I turn onto my street and ignore his house on the corner? For 17 years, going to and from my home with children in my minivan, I was too busy to pay much attention. Then, one day after my girls had grown up and moved away, the man in wireframe glasses and a beige bucket hat was tending his garden and waved at me as I drove by. I returned his wave and wondered, “What was his story?”

I knew my neighbors across and on both sides from us. I was good with two out of three. The one neighbor who made me feel unsafe quelled my desire to go beyond the borders of my property. Consequently, I considered everyone else a person of uninterest. “Don’t make eye contact” was my motto, especially when I was in the driveway, picking up newspapers in my bathrobe.

There was something about the man in the corner house, though, that made me curious. He was always smiling and waving at me. I wanted to knock on his door and say, “What the heck?” Honestly, I don’t remember how we officially met. Maybe I called out to him when we were getting our mail at the same time, saying something neutral like, “Hey, I like your plants.” I told him my name and he told me his, and the next thing I knew, I was dropping off a plate of Christmas cookies.

The Extraordinary Life of Brad

Brad Giles is his name. He has lived at his house in Greenbrae for 60 years. That is longer than I have been alive (by a few years). “I was never that itchy to

BY NANCY CHUNG HOPPER

move,” he says. Now that I know him better, it makes sense. That’s his M.O. — when Brad found something he loved, he stuck with it, whether it was a woman, a profession, or a home.

Like a good neighbor, I try not to bother him. Three years ago, when Brad told me he was 91, I was shocked. Sure, he had no hair, but he was gregarious, stood tall, had nice teeth, was all with it. I soon found out that he lived alone. His wife had died some years earlier. Brad says that on the scale of masculine to feminine, he is closer to the middle. He doesn’t mind doing the laundry, cooking or housekeeping. It is obvious that he takes care of himself. He takes daily walks and flosses, dresses in neatly ironed shirts, washes his car regularly, and gets the paint touched up on his house as needed. He doesn’t want to leave anything for his children to deal with when he dies.

Perhaps because Brad is so self-sufficient, I haven’t worried about him, assuming he will always be there, needing nothing from me. I

realize, though, that our time is running out, because he isn’t as young as he used to be. The contagious coronavirus had me calling him, and then his daughter Dana in a panic, when he didn’t answer his land-line phone.

I decide there is no time like the present quarantine to fill in the gaps about his life. He sits in his favorite floral chair by the window, legs crossed, while I take notes on his white couch, six feet away. Dana, who is visiting from Southern California, bops in and out of the living room to add color to the conversation, and sometimes to boost her humble father’s memory. “You never take the glory,” she teases him. “What is this for?” he says, shyly, enjoy ing the company but unsure of my interest. It is not hard to be drawn into his stories. He is one of the Greatest Generation and his life reflects the definition of these hardy Americans. “Be ing such an average guy,” he says, “I’ve had a remarkable life.”

First America, Then Indiana

While Brad confesses that he never had his great-grandfather Dan iel’s adventurous streak, he be came a skilled outdoorsman as the original Giles settler must have been to make the per ilous journey from the East Coast to the Wild West. Once in Oregon, Daniel first settled down with a woman named America. How ever, it was his second wife Indiana Henri etta who raised his brood of boys — and was the namesake of Brad’s beloved black lab a century later. Brad’s grandfather ran a brick factory (“a bucket and a bunch of mud”), but his sons had other ideas: three became dentists and one a lawyer. Brad’s father Clark was one of the sons that liked teeth. He left small town Myrtle Point for big city San Fran cisco with the determination to go to dental school. Clark must have been in a hurry. He

The Man in the Window Shares the Secret to Life

In these odd times of sheltering in place, I finall meet my neighbor who shares his extraordinary life as if it were just . . . ordinary.

was only 19 when he graduated, so he taught for two years until he could legally practice.

Heck of a Childhood

Born on November 23, 1926, Brad lived with both sets of grandpar ents, his parents and older sister Betty, in a two-bedroom, one-bath house that cost $4,000. Then the Depression hit. Clark was fortunate that his city practice was steadily growing enough to buy some breath ing room in rural Lagunitas where the extended Giles family could play badminton and tether ball, and sleep in an 8-person tent. Pre-Golden Gate Bridge days, Clark rode the train from Point Reyes to Sausalito, then took the ferry to the city. “I thought he was a wonderful father because it was such a long commute,” says Brad. After Clark became a charter member of the Meadow Club in Fairfax, he would sometimes drop off Brad and Betty at the pool on his way to work. “I had a heck of a childhood,” Brad says.

Of course, his mother Louise Catherine Pomtag deserves some credit for Brad’s genial and generous nature. Although she had a full house, she enjoyed inviting people over for parties. She liked to sing the line from Maurice Chevalier’s 1929 hit, “Every little breeze seems to whisper ‘Louise.’” He says she was a “roar” who never lacked for crazy ideas. One of the best: Since Louise had a double mastectomy after breast cancer, she once used her empty bra cups to hide her grandchildren’s illicit firecrackers during a border check. It worked.

For Brad’s father, the untamed land in West Marin brought him bac what you give, k to his Oregon roots and he instilled this knowledge in Brad. At age 8, Brad was shooting pine cones with his own shot gun. “I’m embarrassed to say I was raised to hunt and fish,” he says. Back in the day, I remind him, you hunted to eat. I see nothing wrong with learning to survive and be ing a good shot. “You did eat what you hunted,” I confirm. “Oh yes,” Brad says. “My dad would drop me off with a .22 rifle and tell me to get a deer in two hours. I was maybe 10-years-old and I would hide behind a rock.”

While others might complain about their

task-master fathers, Brad saw him as “a good leader, not a follower.” Definitely a role model. “My father would point to a 30-foot fir tree and say, ‘I want that sawed and split, and put in the basement.’ And that is how I spent my summer. Talk about being a spoiled kid.”

The Giles’ languorous time ended while World War II raged. Supporting three families during the Depression and afterwards, Clark worked hard for his leisure and let it go when it was no longer justifiable. He sold the Lagunitas property after Brad joined the Navy. (If only he had known it’s worth today. Clark died with $10,000 in the bank.) Still, Brad’s passion for the outdoors was imprinted and he briefly considered being a forest ranger. “He knows every bird flying by, every tree, every bush,” says Dana. “It’s incredible.” “No, it’s not incredible,” says Brad, humble as usual.

High School With San Francisco Luminaries

Brad was obviously smart. His parents insisted he apply to Lowell, the oldest public high school west of the Missis

sippi that continues to be an elite academic institution in San Francisco. “Do you know it?” he asks. (Admission there is akin to winning the lottery.) Brad got in and went to school with future icons like actress Carol Channing, GAP founder Don Fisher and Warren Simmons. He and Warren were yell leaders. Once, when it rained before a football game, Warren bought army surplus raincoats and sold them to the fans.

Brad says Warren had a knack for making money which he later used to devel op Pier 39, create the Chevy’s restaurant chain and build a discount store that later morphed into Mt. Tam Rac quet Club, the club I belong to in Larkspur. Life-long friends, Brad brings up Warren’s ten nis achievements at Silverado Country Club in Napa. Brad says he wishes he learned to play tennis better. I note that is the only regret I have heard from him in our chats. In the company of afflu ence, Brad shrugs and says, “Money doesn’t mean a lot to me. I never felt I needed to be a millionaire, as long as I had enough to take care of my family, live well and be happy.”

Brad was also friends with Amos Brown, who was the only black student at Lowell. “It must have been difficult,” says Brad. “I have deep respect for him.” While they were both on the track team, Brad says that Amos won’t likely remember him. Amos went on to become the pastor of San Francisco’s Third Baptist Church and a key member of the NAACP. “It’s wonderful that he succeeded the way he did and became such a prominent person.”

By the time Brad graduated from Lowell in February of 1944, World War II was in its fifth year and many of his older classmates had gone overseas to fight. Since he would turn 18 in November and could be drafted, he used the time to take a class at the University of Cali fornia in Berkeley where a B grade assured him admission. With that accomplished, Brad com mitted himself to the war effort and voluntarily enlisted in the Navy so he could be assigned as a hospital corpsman. “I didn’t know any better

to be afraid to go to war,” he says. He did know that he wanted to help the wounded, rather than do the wounding. This ended up deciding his fate, that he would become a dentist.

In 1952, Brad joined his father’s practice at the 450 Sutter building where many of the city’s doctors, dentists and labs were located at the time. Active in the San Francisco Dental Society, Dr. Clark Giles was well-respected and Brad learned from his example as his partner, as he did as his child. His father had prioritized his family and so would Brad.

Clark also bartered for his dental services if his patients couldn’t pay. Beniamino Bufano, the artist and sculptor of numerous pieces in Northern California, became a good friend and prankster dinner guest: He pretended to bite off part of his finger that was already missing while eating lettuce. A painting of Bufano’s sister hangs in Brad’s living room, perhaps given to Clark for a root canal. Dana safeguards the portrait that Bufano painted of her father. “Why Brad?” I wonder. It speaks to the closeness of their family’s relationship to the artist, but also something special that he saw in Brad.

Brad never turned away a patient either, but maybe he should have thought twice when presented with a deal. “I had a patient who let me rent his house on Stinson Beach for $25 a month in exchange for dental services,” recalls Brad. “When he wanted to sell it to me for $16,000, I said, ‘Are you out of your mind?’” If only.

And Then There Was Romance

Brad knew Mary Ellen Duplisea since the seventh grade, but it took him a long time to ask her out. She was dating his best friend who was still away in the Navy and asked him to take her out as a favor. Brad loyally obliged and didn’t give her back. “I don’t think they were that serious,” so he says.

Ellen and Brad were married two years later in his second year of dental school. “I was just so much in love with her,” he says, and it shows in their wedding photo. He wears a dapper morning coat, looking like Clark Kent, broad-shouldered and beaming, clutching his bride’s hand. Her hair set in pin curls, Ellen is bright-eyed and elegant in a white satin gown. Vows said, they moved into a $25-a-month

studio apartment in a building that Brad once painted on the weekends for extra money. It was fortuitous that the manager remembered his good work and gave him a discount.

A New Development Called Greenbrae

How did you end up in Marin?” I ask Brad. After a duck hunting trip at Griz zly Island, Brad and his father drove through a new development called Greenbrae. By this time, Brad and Ellen lived in San Francis co’s Forest Hills with their three young children. He relished his North Bay days and wanted to share them with his family. He went home to Ellen and said, “Let’s move to Marin.”

“I was always the instigator,” Brad says. “Anything I would suggest, she would agree with.” (Well, they did have one argument where she said, “If you don’t like it – Go.” “I was afraid to go,” he admits.) Although Ellen was a city gal, she met with the Greenbrae developer and chose a $9,700 lot with a spot-on view of Mt. Tam. In 1960, Brad and Ellen moved into their $27,500 home with their sons, Dixon and Kirk, and their toddler daughter Dana. When the pool was put in, the kids’ footprints were embedded in the cement.

The Greenbrae of his prime lived up to its name. Their house was surrounded by cow pastures. From his picture window, Brad re counts the notable families who owned this house or that. Children went to the now forgot ten Greenbrae Elementary School. On Hallow een, the hills did not deter the young tricksters.

The Bank of Marin’s Murray family welcomed the New Year with a canon blast at midnight. Fireworks were shot from the marsh behind Bon Air Center. Locals bought groceries at Petroni’s and scoops at Swensen’s Ice Cream. Weekends were busy bowling at Greenbrae Lanes and chowing down at Zim’s. For five dol lars, the Mogul Ski Club bus took teenagers to Lake Tahoe to ski for the day and stop for din ner at the Food Circus on the way home. If the roads were clear, Dana was no doubt waiting on Sir Francis Drake Blvd for the 5 a.m. pick-up. It sounds like a bustling, more outgoing, more innocent time, and surely, it was.

Secret to 64 Years

Brad and Ellen were married for 64 years. Yet, I’m sure he would say it wasn’t for long enough. Brad says their secret was that they were good buddies and planned things togeth er — and didn’t push each other to like some thing they didn’t. For example, Ellen didn’t like snakes. None-the-less, she agreed to an initia tion camping trip that was interrupted by two rattlesnakes and a bear. She went back to read ing her books by the pool. “I look at my wife and think, she tolerated a lot,” Brad says. “She was a saint.”

Actually, I think she played her cards right. He abated his guilt of outdoor excursions and professional obligations by reserving Wednesdays just for them. They ate lunch at the finest restaurants (cheaper than dinner fare) and attended plays and ballets. Their gourmet appetites spurred them to take cooking classes together, which they relished, whether it was from a $6 home chef or at Le Cordon Bleu for Brad’s birthday in Paris. Up to 30 family and friends would convene at their home for formal dinner parties and holidays where they honed their latest recipes, and their children served and cleaned up after. They were a team.

Like his father, Brad took his family on trips, but ventured farther afield. When the children were growing up, spring breaks at the White Sun Guest Ranch in Palm Desert, summers at Marla Bay in Lake Tahoe and respites at the Royal Hawaiian on Oahu were reserved every year. While their doting grandmothers made sure the kids were doing their homework, Ellen and Brad took their own adventures with bridge

"You get what you give," he likes to say. He gave a lot, and so, he believes recieved so much in return. I hope I can learn from that.

and travel friends Doris and Ray, who lived down the hill and were a complementary pair.

“I made the living,” says Brad. “She made the living worthwhile.” For 64 years.

Giles Syndrome

In the 1970s, Brad was called Marcus Wel by in the dental community because along with teaching, he had the largest practice in San Francisco — more than 2,000 patients — and was generous with his referrals to spe cialists. (Marcus Welby, M.D. was a popular T.V. show in the 1970s whose eponymous lead was known for his kindness and dedication.) Not surprisingly, his colleagues looked to him for guidance and leadership.

Dana calls it the “Giles Syndrome” — he can’t get involved in something without tak ing it to the max. What Brad didn’t see in himself, others did and they encouraged him. “Pushed him” is how he would describe it. She lists some of his accomplishments: 30 years on the San Francisco Dental Society Board of Directors, President of the Parnassus Club, President of the University of California Den tal Association. “I’m actually shy. I don’t feel confident getting up in front of people.” Brad shakes his head and says, “I would take re sponsibility and do a good job so everyone was after me.” Dana adds that her dad is probably most proud of being a president and coach of the Marin County Little League and running the Cub Scouts.

In 1991, Brad was given the Medal of Honor, the most prestigious award from the UCSF Den tal Alumni Association. The following year, after 40 years of practicing dentistry at the age of 67, Brad was burned out and decided to stay home to care for Ellen as she was becoming more incapac itated. “I figured I was going to die at 70 anyway,” he says. He installed a stair lift in the house and made her his priority for 20 years.

Of all the things I have learned about Brad, the selfless, patient years taking care of his wife make him a hero to me. He says they had a schedule. She got her hair done every week. He dressed her as usual. His household skills came in handy. After a traumatic fall, Ellen died at the age of 87 on November 24, 2014, the day after Brad’s birthday. “She was always so appreciative of everything I did,” he says. “It was a pleasure for

me.” He earned the Husband Medal of Honor.

Brad is still getting through the backlog of books on her Kindle. “I’ll never be able to finish them,” he says. Reading the same passages she once read, maybe he feels close to her that way.

What Took So Long

that his dad’s receptionist dated Lefty O’Doul. So, he got to sit behind all the great players at the Giants baseball games.”

“I’ve been so gosh darn lucky,” Brad says. “I’m not threatened by death.” He laughs. “I just want to go to sleep. The way the Lord has treated me, I’ll probably have a limo.”

“You’ll probably get picked up in a chariot,” says Dana.

Brad has been a good neighbor to my husband Todd and me. When our drive way was a concrete mess, he let us park Todd’s car in his garage and gave us the opener for as long as we needed it. He always asks for news about my daughters and my mom, a youngster in her early 80’s. If I bring by some food my mom made, he returns the containers with lemon bars and recently, a can of tennis balls for me. Once, he came in and kissed my mom on the cheek. (And he says he’s shy.)

More than a year ago, Brad told me that he is dying. He was chipper about it. I was stunned. His acceptance of his illness was not surpris ing to me. According to his doctor, he should be gone by now. Obviously, he isn’t.

I take off my shoes before entering Brad’s house. He, Dana and I sit in a triangle in his living room. I touch nothing, taking all corona virus precautions since he is obviously in the high-risk category. Still, we are enjoying a re union. At 94, Brad continues to take walks ev ery day, though only a mile instead of two.. He still drives Dana to West Marin to reminisce. “I can’t believe it,” says Dana. “He just told me

Even after Brad told me about his illness, I didn’t visit him often enough, maybe once a month, less. The days just went by as I drove by his house to mine. I would look for him, though, the man in the window. I reprimand myself. Whenever I stop to knock on his door, I know I will stay longer than I planned and I will leave feeling uplifted, listened to, less anxious. Brad is living history with much to share. He is proof that a person can be happy on his own terms, by doing his best, teaching his students, treating his patients, providing for his family, caring for his wife. “You get what you give,” he likes to say. He gave a lot, and so, he believes he received much in return. I hope I can learn from that.

“I still feel so good,” he says. “I don’t feel like I’m going anywhere.” The funny thing is that he doesn’t seem that old to me. But I have to ask him those questions you ask someone who has lived almost a century. What are the secrets to a life well lived? “Be kind. Be honest,” he says. The secret to longevity? He doesn’t indulge in bad habits, gets fresh air, and eats a salad every day. Brad is a man of simple tenets and a sen sible routine.

I ask if I can take a photo of him sitting in his chair by the window. He puts his hands in his lap and smiles. I know that one day, I will not see him there. I wish it didn’t take me so long to discover him, just two doors down. “See you later, kiddo,” he says, as I turn to wave. “I’ll be back,” I say. “Don’t go anywhere.”

For more first person stories: marinmagazine.com/ first-person

Our team is proud to announce recently who may not

Since all of work as a feel that of in the all of many future If you would to any

of the County 2020 Best

If you have to shelter-in-place anywhere on the planet, Marin County is a pretty great spot. This year for our Best of the County feature, we went back two years to check in on your previous awardees and see how they are faring during the pandemic, see their responses in Winner Rewind. We also reached out to a few local experts to help us select the Best of the Best for 2020. While we tried to stick with popular favorites, you’ll notice we aimed for businesses and categories you can enjoy now. Outdoor dining, cocktails to go, zoom fitness classes and of course we paid extra attention to the outdoors. Thank you for reading and if you agree with our picks, please tag us at #MarinBOC2020 or drop us a line.

Orangetheory OF THE COUNTY

Fitness & Recreation

BEST STREAMING WORKOUTS

BODY BY BINAY

Calling all go-getters — if there’s nothing you like more than feeling accomplished by breakfast, this is the workout for you. Led by fitness instructor and Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (NTP) Binay Curtis, the Sunrise Special class on Tuesdays and Thursdays packs strength, cardio and HIIT all in one session. You’ll feel great and be done by 8 a.m. bodybybinay.com

NOW POWER YOGA

Founder Susan Hauser discovered yoga after her husband unexpectedly died from cancer and found comfort in the spirituality of the practice. She’s since combined that with the character-building discipline of traditional workouts and the energy has carried through online. Now instead of being on a mat in a packed studio, you can be a square on a packed screen every day at 9:15 a.m. nowpower.yoga

ORANGETHEORY

The convenience of exercising at home is nice, but the energy from group fitness is unparalleled.

Fortunately, Orangetheory is one of the studios taking that momentum outside. The heart-rate based interval workout that’s worshipped by scores of devotees is now holding 28 classes a week in front of its indoor space in Bon Air Center. Equipment is thoroughly cleaned — for 15 minutes — between sessions. orangetheory.com

PELO FITNESS

Speaking of connecting with your favorite exercise instructors — Leslie Mueller, long-time beloved Pelo Cycle and Strong 50 teacher — is recording videos (and sharing live via Pelo Online) from her new home in France. With full-body strengthening, balance and alignment work, her Strong 50 class will be the best addition to your Monday and Wednesday evenings. And to whom it may concern, her playlist game is still going strong pelofitness.com

RED DRAGON YOGA

While in-studio classes remain postponed, Red Dragon Yoga is also teaching outdoor classes almost every day of the week in the parking lot of its San

Rafael location. Register for an alfresco session, or go on their website for a robust offering of online classes including Birkam, power yoga and express Pilates. reddragonyoga.com

ROCO DANCE

RoCo Dance was founded in 1993 by professional dancer Annie Rosenthal Parr, and the pandemic did not break its rhythm. Pilates, stretch and refresh, as well modern yoga classes are taught virtually every day in addition to ones led in the parking lot of the Fairfax studio. Recently the studio partnered with Play Marin and has been hosting outdoor drop-in classes like breaking, hip hop, popping, and West African dance. rocodance.com

SOULFUL SUNDAY HATHA YOGA CLASS

It’s like church for your body but you don’t need to leave your living room .  J oin her this Sunday at 11am offered throug h sukhayoga.co m for only $12/ class. And if you’re dying for an in person yoga experience, Kristen is now offering them outside with responsible social distancing. For more details, go to kristenaddicksyoga.com.

STOP DROP DANCE

Started by lifelong dancer Grace Ling Yu, this easyto-follow cardio dance class is set to energizing pop and hip hop music. Worried about lack of experience and bad form? Don’t be. The focus here is on fun and expression, not so much on whether you’re doing something “right.” Classes are generally held at 9:30 a.m., Tuesday through Thursday and on Saturday. stopdropanddance.com

Sea Trek (2018)

We fortunate comfortable the challenges wish them the

Sailing Education Adventures (2018) Marin County families are the best. They have stuck with us through all the changes with such good humor and grace and understanding. We can take fewer children and many were shut out this year, but there are children on the bay, out in the wind and weather, sailing.

Roco

BEST OUTDOOR FAMILY RECREATION

BY DONNA BERRY GLASS

MCINNIS SKATE PARK

This gem of an outdoor skate park in San Rafael might be overlooked if you didn’t know it was there. Its terrain is suitable for beginners to the more advanced, and can accommodate scooters as well as inline skates and skateboards. While it’s not uncommon to see kids ranging from toddlers to teens racing around, the 25,000 square feet of park space means the little ones can stick to the easy stuff while the big kids can catch big air on their favorite ramps. marincountyparks.org

BIRD WATCHING AT POINT REYES

One of the best bird observation spots in the entire country, if not the world, is right here in Marin County. Nearly 500 bird species ranging from predators to shorebirds and waterfowl have been spotted in and around the Point Reyes National Seashore, including our national symbol, the Bald Eagle. Two spots of note: the Estero Trail which is populated by blue herons and a winter roosting habit for greathorned owls; and the Giacomini Wetlands filled with egrets, sandpipers, coot, snipes, and Bufflehead, with Ospreys, White-tailed Kites and even aforementioned eagles flying overhead. For competitive and give-back types, sign up for the annual B ird-ATho n h osted by Point Blue Conservation Science , a n organization dedicated to protecting our threatened coastlines. nps.gov

DRIVE-IN STYLE FLICKS

Summertime is movie blockbuster season, but not in 2020. Even the traditional outdoor movie gatherings in parks have been put on hold, but there is one socially distant-friendly option: drive-in movies. Bon Air Center is hosting monthly movies watchable from the comfort of a vehicle and no mask required. 80s aficionados will appreciate that the movie selection has been carefully curated to include classics such as Dirty Dancing and Footloose. bonair.com

SF BAY TRAIL

When complete, the SF Bay Trail will be a 500-mile stretch of connected hiking trails and cycling paths winding throughout the entire greater Bay Area. A number of those picturesque trails are located here in Marin County and available to check out now, including the Tiburon Rail Trail from Blackie’s Pasture to downtown Tiburon and adjacent to the Bay; the Mill Valley-Sausalito Path from Gate 6 in Sausalito to East Blithedale partially along an old railroad corridor; and the Hamilton Bay Trail in Novato, which features a downloadable audio tour narrated by local legend Doug McConnell. Trail maps located here. baytrail.org

STAFFORD LAKE BIKE PARK

Stafford Lake’s 17 acres of biking terrain is suitable for mountain bikes, BMX and dirt jumpers. The bike park offers something new in every direction, with an easy pump track, a progressive jump course and a perimeter trail appropriate for all skill levels. It also has the only dual slalom course for intermediate and advanced riders in the entire Bay Area. Nearby are picnic areas, a nature trail and a lake suitable for fishing (16 and older need a fishing license). Best of all, there’s something fun for kids of all ages to do. marincountyparks.org

Marin Rowing (2018)

What we love about Marin is the community. We share a small space and feel that everyone is looking out for one another. Our membership has looked out for us. Being the Education Director at this organization, I understand the stresses that our community business owners have gone through. It has not been easy and I acknowledge them all for doing such good work. I do think Marin will come out of this because of the efforts of our small business owners. They are thinking outside the box and finding a way to keep things moving, and the County is doing what it can to support the gray area.

101 Surf Sports (2019)

We are lucky to live in such a tech-driven market. We have to be grateful and appreciative that we are being spared a lot of pain given how Bay Area tech companies are doing so well. With that said, we feel the pain of many friends in the hospitality industry. The focus of the pain on one sector of our economy is so unprecedented, it leaves us struggling to comprehend what it would be like to be in their shoes.

MARIN COUNTY PARKS

McInnis Skate Park

Best hiking loops

Out-and-back trails are fine, but the sense of completion from loops is matchless. Whether you live nearby or not, here are the best places throughout the county where you can easily park and hit the trails. Go online for links to maps and more info — it’s time to go out and get loopy.

Bay View Trail to Shoreline Trail Loop near San Rafael

Great for hot days as the path is mostly shaded, this a moderately difficult 4-mile trail featuring loads of wildflowers and changing terrain to keep things interesting. You’ll also catch a few different water views.

Canopy View, Lost Trail, Fern Creek Loop Trail near Mill Valley

Start at the Mountain Home Inn parking lot and encounter dense canopies of towering Redwoods on this varied 3.4 mile trail. Accessible year-round, you’ll get to take in Cathedral Grove in Muir Woods — which is generally filled with crowds — but also get to experience some quieter, pristine parts.

Deer Camp Fire Road, Old Quarry and Michako Loop in Novato

You’ll find some of the oldest and most stunning oak and bay trees in Marin along this 5.2 mile trail. Hikers will spot wildflowers as they walk through grasslands and forests and climb 1,558 feet to a summit from the Novato Valley. Bring Fido. Dogs are also able to use this trail.

Phyllis Ellman and Reed Ranch Loop near Corte Madera

A family and dog-friendly trail that’s great for all skill levels, this 2.4 mile loop is a naturalist’s dream. Encounter hundreds on wildflowers in the spring including milkmaids, Fremont’s camas, buttercups, shooting stars as well as the Tiburon mariposa lily, which typically blooms in May, and is found nowhere else on earth.

FITNESS CATEGORY SPONSOR

NOW Power Yoga (2019)

We can’t wait to see everyone and keep our strong yoga family and community going. Through challenging times, I have stayed positive and strong and have taught 97 days in a row and won’t stop until we open — the turnout has been phenomenal. We have encouraged clients to stay healthy with us as we make it through this chaotic journey together.

Sherri Jacobs, Marketing/Accounting Manager at Valley Memorial Park and Jesus Santana, Grounds Manager at Valley Memorial Park

FAVORITE OUTDOOR SPACES

RUSH CREEK PRESERVE

Rush Creek Preserve in Novato is a 522-acre preserve with multiple hiking, biking and equestrian trails. Wildflowers, ample wildlife — including over 200 bird species — and sweeping views of San Pablo Bay make this preserve a wonderful place to explore with the whole family. Parking available in three locations (just off freeway at Atherton Ave, at Bugeia Lane, and in Bahia Valley), all with easy access to trailheads. Dogs welcome, but must be on-leash at all times.

MT. BURDELL

Part of the Olompali State Historic Park, Mt. Burdell has a variety of trails for different levels of hiking experience. Easy access to trails from many locations. Spectacular views of Marin, Sonoma, Solano counties and the San Francisco Bay. Dogs must be leashed on trail and under voice command on fire roads.

MOUNT BURDELL PRESERVE

The hike to Hidden Lake on the Mount Burdell Preserve is a seasonal treasure. Visit during the rainy season to see tons of amphibians and hear the

impressive croaking of countless frogs that flock to the lake each year.

NOVATO

“All of Marin County has such wonderful hiking trails. There are so many to choose from, but what I love the most are trails in Novato. The north end of the county opens you up to views from all over.  T he feeling I get when I go out to explore is CALM. Hiking is good for the heart in many ways — breathing the fresh air, hearing the sounds of nature, paying attention to the little details, the many different blessings you encounter while exploring…There are physical and emotional benefits of getting out in nature and going for a hike. The fresh air you breath moves through your bloodstream and renews your mental wellbeing along with your heart and body.” ~ Sherri Jacobs

RUSH CREEK

“I love to hike around Rush Creek and up in these hills because of the views of the San Pablo Bay area and Novato. It’s also a great place to hike with family.” ~ Jesus Santana

SeaPlane Adventures (2018)

We are the last remaining commercial seaplane operator left in the entire state of California, a state that was once rife with seaplane companies (the original ferry across San Francisco Bay was by seaplane in the 1920s.). I was very afraid this historic business was going to die on my watch. But I think we have made it, thanks to the support of the local community who have been enthusiastically flying with us since we re-opened. However, we are not out of the woods yet and Marin County is not making it any easier.

North Bay Aquatics (2018)

My wife and I have lived here our whole lives. Being able to live and work in the community doing what I like to do makes me feel blessed.

Mt. Burdell

BEST PLACES to Explore

MUIR BEACH

By day, it’s a great place to enjoy with family and friends and as the sun goes down, it’s one of the only beaches that allows for legal bonfires. So be sure to bring enough s’mores makings to share.

SCHOONMAKER BEACH

Access and parking can be tricky, especially shelter-in-place, but this sweet little sandy beach with shallow water (can get muddy) is ideal for young swimmers looking to splash in almost warm water. It’s also a great place to launch a kayak.

MARIN HEADLANDS

How lucky are we to have access to miles of protected open space, free for all to hike and bike. Restrooms and picnic tables can be found at the parking lot of Rodeo Beach — and while it’s not really my favorite hobby, certain spots are mecca for birdwatchers.

CHINA CAMP STATE PARK

Mountain biking here is awesome. Regardless of ability, you can go for miles and take multiple trails to explore. We’ve had some great youth group camping fun out there too.

GET OUT!

China Camp (2019)

Friends of China Camp is immensely grateful to the Marin community for having a place in its heart for China Camp and the resultant volunteer and financial support that the park receives. A heart-felt thank you from all of us at Friends of China Camp.

TENNESSEE VALLEY

One of my favorites because either way you go, you’ll end up at a beautiful secluded beach. Take the hard way, up hills, rewarded by amazing views, or just walk the level paved path — it’s the best of both worlds.

STINSON BEACH

I love walking along the entire beach. I see people enjoying the cold water (not my thing, but they look happy) and if you’re lucky you’ll see a paraglider land on the beach.

BEST YOUTH SPORT GROUPS

This list is growing as we are involved with more local sports programs:

• ST. MARY’S STAR OF THE SEA CATHOLIC YOUTH ORGANIZATION (CYO) PROGRAM

• SOUTHERN MARIN LACROSSE

• DAVE FROMER SOCCER

• NEXT LEVEL FLAG FOOTBALL COUNTY BEARS BASKETBALL AAU

BEST PLAYGROUNDS

MARIN CITY’S ROCKY GRAHAM PARK

This is a family-friendly community gathering place. There is a children’s play structure, skate park, a beautiful mural, and picnic tables. Did I mention the gazebo and amphitheater? It’s just a great and fun spot.

CORTE MADERA PARK

One of the most popular parks in Marin. In nonCOVID times, kids from all areas come here to play on the massive structures or play soccer and other games on the expansive fields.

MCNEARS BEACH IN SAN RAFAEL

This is a one-stop-fun-shop; there is a beach, pool, tennis courts, volleyball courts and grassy areas to play or have a picnic.

YogaWorks (2019)

Marin is a fantastic place for a business, especially one centered on yoga. People are friendly, warm, and open-minded. And with so many people dedicated to wellbeing the perfect place for YogaWorks. While we love our indoor studios, we love taking yoga outside, too. There is nothing like practicing yoga on Angel Island, in the Marin Headlands, or at Muir and Bolinas Beach. Our Larkspur studio has just reopened with classes under a big tent with a gorgeous view of Mt. Tam. We’re always inspired by Marin.

Camp Edmo (2019)

With the pivot we made this year to online programming, we can be anywhere. Marin was the location of our very first EDMO camp and we’ve had a physical presence at schools in Marin since 2004. This year we had hoped to expand our program and open an in-person camp program in San Rafael.

paul austin Founder of PlayMarin shares tips on where to Play in Marin.

Summer Solstice Muir Beach (pre-COVID)

✶ 2020 BEST OF COUNTY ✶

Dining

A couple years we noticed one particular Instagram account that seemed to be hitting all of the best spots in Marin. So we tracked down the man behind the handle @destroyeats, Troy Quintillan-Rios, who is as enamored with the Marin food scene as we are. With our staff outings scaled back due to COVID, we collaborated with him for our Best of the County 2020 Dining.

Top Tacos

COPITA TEQUILERIA Y COMIDA

SAUSALITO

Don't miss: bottomless mimosas on the weekend. copitarestaurant.com

PACIFIC CATCH

CORTE MADERA

Don't miss: the Seared Ahi Tuna ‘Sushi’ Tacos. pacificcatch.com

PICANTE TAQUERIA

SAN RAFAEL

Don’t miss: the Carne Asada Tacos with extra spicy salsa. 415.485.6050

PLAYA

MILL VALLEY

spit-roasted Al Pastor Tacos drenched in a grilled pineapple salsa. playamv.com

HOOK FISH CO

MILL VALLEY

Don't miss: cod fish tacos. hookfishco.com

Top Burger

GOTT’S ROADSIDE GREENBRAE

Don't miss: The Bacon Cheeseburger. gotts.com

@destroyeats

SUPER DUPER BURGER

MILL VALLEY

Don't miss: Super Burger, a side of garlic fries and home-made pickles. superduperburgers.com

PERRY’S ON MAGNOLIA

LARKSPUR

Don't miss: Perry's Burger with bacon and blue cheese. perryssf.com

BUNGALOW 44 MILL VALLEY

Don't miss: the Bungalow Burger with Awesome sauce. bungalow44.com

Vegan? We got you!

WORLD WRAPPS

CORTE MADERA

Tahini Tofu Wrap with a Mango Juice boba drink. worldwrapps.com

SAIGON VILLAGE

SAN RAFAEL

Tofu Rice Noodle Soup. saigonvillagesanrafael.com

R’NOH THAI

LARKSPUR

Tofu and Vegetable Red Curry. rnohthai.com

Pizza Antica (2018)

We’ve been on a constant roller coaster, so many ups and downs. Of course, going dark and letting go of our entire team was tough — one of the most devastating things we have had to do. Luckily, we were able to obtain a small business loan, which allowed us to bring back some of our staff. As we reopen, we are able to add more employees. The highs are when we’re allowed to add services, like outdoor dining. But it has been challenging to communicate with the public about our services and hours.

Tony’s Seafood (2018)

The patience and kindness from customers that just miss Tony’s Seafood and miss being in the hospitality industry environment is a high point. So is the glow and joy that the staff at Tony’s Seafood has shown just in returning to work. We are grateful that so many of our staff members returned with the ambition to get involved in the ever changing puzzle that is the “new” service industry.

FISH TACOS

New Discoveries

FLOODWATER

With Chef Michael Siegel in the kitchen, and the Higgins brothers running the house, this popular Mill Valley spot opened to much fanfare in November of 2019. Get the Shorty’s Tall Reuben and the roasted beet salad with za’atar spiced labneh on their 10 table outdoor patio, or order take-out online. floodwatermv.com

PINK OWL COFFEE

Opened in February 2020 in Downtown San Rafael. Sit on their makeshift patio and treat yourself to an Iced Coffee and a Third Culture Bakery Butter Mochi Donut, or make it two. pinkowlcoffee.com

HOG ISLAND OYSTER CO.

Opened in March 2020, this West Marin staple has found new tony digs at the Marin Country Mart in Larkspur. Get a dozen of the Oyster Bar Mix or heavenly oyster po-boy. Next level fresh. hogislandoysters.com

LOU’S TAKEAWAY

Opened in August 2019 in Terra Linda by Anthony, aka Lou, this spot should not get overlooked. Get the Braised Pork Belly Plate. You will feel like a Marin insider when you check this little powerhouse out, take-out only. loustakeaway.com

REVEL & ROOST BRICK OVEN KITCHEN

Opened in September 2019 by Chef Mark Edwards on B Street in San Rafael. Offering dining al fresco from 4 to 8 for dinner and take-out. Absolutely get the Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich. revelroost kitchen.com

Top Outdoor Dining RESTAURANT PICCO/PIZZERIA PICCO

This Downtown Larkspur restaurant continues to slay the fine dining and pizza game, serving up beautiful dishes with some of the freshest ingredients in Marin County chosen by Chef Michael Reyes. Get the Avocado Bruschetta for an appetizer. restaurantpicco.com

LEFT BANK BRASSERIE

Take a trip to Paris without leaving town. French cuisine at its finest at this Downtown Larkspur staple. Enjoy a glass of wine while people watching at one of the 10 outdoor tables on the patio. The Moules Frites are a must. leftbank.com

INSALATA'S RESTAURANT

A gem in San Anselmo, this Mediterranean restau rant is serving up a white tablecloth experience al fresco with 10 tables in the parking lot. Don’t miss their famous Syrian Fattoush Salad. insalatas.com

BUCKEYE ROADHOUSE

This iconic restaurant in Mill Valley is serving up some our favorite food in Marin. An all-around affair from food to cocktails to a curated wine list. Call ahead to reserve one of the 8 tables on the patio. Definitely start with the Oysters Bingo. buckeyeroadhouse.com

POGGIO TRATTORIA

If you squint, the streetside tables in front of Sausalito’s Poggio Trattoria can look like Italy, which suits Chef Ben Balesteri’s passion for authentic Italian cuisine to a T. When Marin bounty meets Italian Cuisine, Poggio will never disappoint. Get anything seafood, as the Chef may have caught it himself. poggiotrattoria.com

GRAVITY TAVERN

Looking for a bite to eat and drink after long hike? Check out Gravity Tavern in Downtown Mill Valley because, you know, you deserve it. Classy ambiance with warm service at their 12 outdoor tables. If you’re a fan of classic cocktails, don’t miss the Gravity Grade Old Fashioned. gravitytavern.com

KITTI’S PLACE

A hidden gem in Sausalito, Mama is cooking up a home cooked meal straight from the heart. Enjoy some popular dishes like fresh spring rolls, Chicken Lettuce Cups or Pad Thai. Generally serving lunch outside k and take-out until 6 p.m., check @kittisplace on Instagram to be sure. kittisplace.com

LE GARAGE

Stunning views of the Sausalito bay, good food and delicious wine. They have it all. Get some Bubbles and the Cheese Plate or try the other French classics like Salad Niçoise. Amazing for weekend brunch at one of the 8 outdoor tables. legaragebistrosausalito.com

MIRACLE MILE CAFÉ

Breakfast with a hint of spice. This San Rafael restaurant serves up delicious home-cooked Peruvian cuisine as well as traditional breakfast classics and omelets. Do not pass up the famous Cinnamon Roll Pancakes. There are 10 outdoor tables here, walk-ins welcome. miraclemilecafe.com

FARMSHOP MARIN

Just off the the San Francisco/Larkspur Ferry, this farm-to-table restaurant brings Marin County to your table. Definitely get the Jidori Chicken. Bring the kids too as there is a playground. Their outdoor patio has about 14 tables, and takes reservations. farmshopca.com

Tamalpie (2018)

I think the community gathering around us all was huge and I would not give up being here, in Marin, for anything. We are a strong and tight community. I appreciate all the other restaurateurs and people who helped us out.

Rustic Bakery (2019)

We feel very supported by the community. Customers have been so generous with tips for the employees during shelter-in-place. I am grateful that they understand the sacrifice we are making to stay open during this time. In my opinion, Marin is the best place to live and to own an organic bakery.

Iron Springs Pub and Brewery (2019)

The overwhelming outpouring of support we have received has been great. Unfortunately, we had to permanently close our San Rafael location, but our Fairfax location is open. These are uncharted waters. We are doing all we can to plan but much is out of our hands. Our hope is that landlords will understand the dire situation and work with businesses. There needs to be a change in the business interruption insurance policies that insurance companies are refusing to pay out on.

Perry’s (2018 and 2019)

The high points have centered around how busy we have been for take-out, how grateful our customers have been that we are open and their display of loyalty, for which we are very, very grateful. Also, our staff has displayed incredible teamwork, showing how much they care about each other and taking great care of our guests. The best part was reopening for outdoor dining and seeing the restaurant roar back to life. It is a privilege and an honor to have been able to open Perry’s in Larkspur almost five years ago.

Poggio (2018 and 2019)

A highlight was seeing our enormously talented and hardworking team that has remained completely reorganize the restaurant service model. We had a hard time getting ingredients delivered. So Poggio Chef Ben Balesteri went out on the bay and caught fish himself. We grew a herb garden to guarantee a fresh supply . For restaurants everywhere, business has been completely changed by both the health crisis and economic aftershocks. We are on the brink of reopening half of our inside seats.

Insalata's Restaurant

family Outdoor eats

BY DONNA BERRY GLASS

SLOW STREETS

DOWNTOWN TIBURON

Now through Labor Day weekend, Main Street in quintessentially charming Tiburon turns into a pedestrians-only avenue full of outdoor dining options from Friday afternoons through Sunday evenings, including space for social distancing. townoftiburon.org

GRAVITY TAVERN

MILL VALLEY

Formerly the home of the Balboa Café Mill Valley, the newly opened Gravity Tavern is quickly making a splash with its buttermilk fried chicken, offered in kid-sized, individual or family-sized portions, plus a variety of salads, sides, entrees and daily prix fixe specials. gravitytavern.com

CREEKSIDE PIZZA

SAN ANSELMO

This upscale pizza spot offers tasty salads, sandwiches and appetizers that mom and dad will enjoy too, plus mac and cheese and spaghetti for kids. It's a part of San Anselmo’s On the Avenue weekend street shutdown happening on Friday and Saturday evenings and all day on Sundays. creeksidesa.com

RANGECAFE BAR AND GRILL PEACOCK GAP GOLF CLUB SAN RAFAEL

The restaurant overlooking the picturesque golf course, offering a sense of rejuvenation, has opened its outdoor patio with tables on a first-come, firstserved basis. The menu is well rounded including choices for kids, who eat free on Mondays (make sure to ask when placing your order). When you’re finished, pick up one of their take-and-bake lasagnas to enjoy later in the week. rangecafe.net

FINNEGAN’S MARIN

DOWNTOWN NOVATO

Reminiscent of a European pub, this family-friendly spot with an outdoor patio offers a big menu with burgers, pizzas, salads and even Irish corned beef and cabbage and Irish nachos. There’s limited seating on the patio, but on weekends, seating extends onto Grant Avenue which is closed to traffic Friday afternoon through Sunday. finnegansmarin.com

Copita (2018)

By far the highest point has been rehiring our team and welcoming guests back onto our restaurant patios. It was very emotional yet strange, but so far everyone has been amazingly kind and ecstatic to be back.

FOOD CATEGORY SPONSOR

CALIFORNIA FILM INSITITUTE

Mill Valley Film Festival

Dine & Stream with the California Film Institute and our wonderful restaurant partners.

Check out the tantalizing cuisine from our restaurant partners, offering take-out menus from around the world to please your palate while you cozy up with Rafael@Home virtual cinema and livestream conversations, exclusive CFI Member Screenings, the upcoming Mill Valley Film Festival and DocLands Documentary Film Festival, and more, cfi.org

TOP Picks

IL DAVIDE

Warm and welcoming Italian restaurant serving refined Tuscan fare including classic lunch spe cials. ildavide.net

LE COMPTOIR

Contemporary and unpretentious bistro, rotisserie, and epicerie offering delicious French-style fare such as steak, mussels and rotisserie meats, plus wine. lecomptoirsr.com

SAN RAFAEL JOE’S

Now celebrating over 70 years in business, San Rafael Joe’s is a veritable Marin County favorite, well-known for serving contemporary Italian-American cuisine with nightly specials. sanrafaeljoes.com

STATE ROOM

Hip gastropub for house brews, cocktails, woodfired pizza and American eats with a global touch, State Room is proud to use local, organic, and sustainable producers. stateroombrewery.com

SOL FOOD

Renowned casual eatery with locations in San Rafael and Mill Valley serving fresh, authentic, and traditional Puerto Rican fare with a highly addictive menu for which customers go to great lengths to get a fix. solfoodrestaurant.com

THERESA & JOHNNY’S

Local's favorite serving homestyle breakfast fare. Breakfast, breakfast, breakfast all day long, plus dinner-style lunch offerings. theresajohnnys.com

Picco (2019)

The high point for us is the excitement we receive from our guests when they know that we are still here to serve them.

Lotus Cuisine of India (2019)

The high point has been that none of our employees were laid off. We feel fortunate that we are a quality community restaurant that has been here for 20 years.

PIAZZA D’ANGELO

Piazza D'Angelo proudly brings southern Italian cuisine to the heart of Mill Valley, with delectable options like wood-fired pizzas, freshly made pastas, and antipasti, as well as fresh fish, prime meats, and signature tiramisu. piazzadangelo.com

PIZZA ANTICA

Offering irresistible crispy, thin-crust pizza and other Italian standards made with pristine local ingredients from small family farmers. pizzaantica.com

WATERSHED

A refined purveyor of contemporary California cuisine, directed by what is available from local farmers, ranches, and fisheries, creating unique rustic flavors and great beverages. watershedmv.com

INSALATA’S

Great spot for Mediterranean fare and popular take-out options that bring the warm spirit of the Mediterranean to Marin County. insalatas.com

PACIFIC CATCH

Outpost of an easygoing chain known for simply prepared seafood with a Pacific Rim influence. pacificcatch.com

AROMA CAFE

Bright, casual coffee shop offering breakfast, sandwiches, and Middle Eastern plates specializing in Mediterranean fusion foods. aro macafesanrafael.com

Tamalpie (2018)

I think the community gathering around us all was huge and I would not give up being here, in Marin, for anything. We are a strong and tight community. I appreciate all the other restaurateurs and people who helped us out.

Outdoor Dining with Full Liquor

TRIDENT SAUSALITO

“Halting indoor dining wasn’t such a bad thing for us,” says Rick Enos, general manager of the Trident restaurant in Sausalito. Now with fewer tourists, locals are getting the chance to reconnect with the landmark. A relatively new second deck (built in 2014) and the large main deck make for almost the same capacity as the restaurant had pre-covid using current social distance spacing. The Sausalito Louie and classic Cioppino are still delicious and become more so when washed down by the classic Trident Tequila Sunrise, invented there in the mid-1970s. 415.331.3232, thetrident.net

SAM’S ANCHOR CAFÉ TIBURON

If Sam’s Café could survive Prohibition (the restaurant is 100 years old this year) without cocktails, it can certainly survive this, with them. Their spectacular outdoor deck is still the spot to see and have been seen (who even knew they offered indoor dining?), if only from slightly further away. No surprises here, either on the menu or at the bar; oysters, calamari etc. But haven’t we had plenty enough surprises already this year? 415.435.4527, samscafe.com

with Beer and Wine

WATERSHED MILL VALLEY

Its abundant outdoor seating (in the now expanded lumberyard) has become a wellspring of outdoor freedom during this lockdown. “I’ve never been interested in the fast casual places where you get a number and find a seat. I find it socially cheap,” says Ged Robertson, owner and operator of Bootjack Wood fired Pizza, Watershed, and the Shoreline Coffee Shop. “That was until we were able to utilize it.” Special yard dogs — bratwursts with peppers,

According to BACtrack, a San Francisco-based breathalyzer company, in the early pandemic days the Bay Area’s alcohol intake increased by a staggering 42 percent. Many have taken the “whatever it takes to get through this” approach, and that just might be a glass of wine, artisan cocktail or the new cannabis cocktail trend. Reporting on the latest and greatest, we’ve turned to regular contributorand bartender extraordinaire, Jeff Burkhart .

mustard, and onions — along with Asian vodka, great beers on tap and a simply delicious wine list might just make you forget all about indoor seating. 415.888.2406, watershedmv.com

IRON SPRINGS PUB

FAIRFAX

House ale-braised BBQ pork sandwiches or giant bacon cheese pretzels are sure to soothe anyone’s anxiety. And all are available with Iron Springs special Shelter Melter Ale, a 6.7% pale ale brewed on the same day that the original shelter in place went into effect. Now, that was foresight. If the Melter won’t work for you, Iron Springs has 15 other beers to choose from, many of them award winning, everything from Kolsch to Imperial stout. 415.485.1005, ironspringspub.com

Watershed

Best Pre-Pandemic Product

2019 MARIN WATER ROSÉ

SCENIC ROOT WINEGROWERS (PEY-MARIN)

SAN ANSELMO

Remember how light and frivolous 2019 seemed? If you don’t, Marin Water Rosé might just help you remember. Originally Jonathon Pey, winemaker for Pey-Marin Vineyards (makers of some stellar West Marin pinot noirs) had decided to celebrate his 20th harvest, by creating a product he had made early on in his career.“I had lived in France and Susan [Pey’s late wife and partner] had lived in Italy, so we knew rosé,” says Pey. “In 2003 we had made a rosé from Marin County grown grapes. For our 20th harvest I thought it would be kind of fun and different to bring it back.”

That original rosé was the first Marin county rosé ever commercially produced. “In terms of the national wine industry now, rosé is a really popular drink. It is all over the place,” says Pey. “We did it about 10 years too early.”

His Marin Water seeks to remedy that situation. The new rosé is a hand pruned, hand-picked, 100 percent stainless steel fermented, non-malolactic wine, which sees no oak at all. It comes in at 12.1 percent alcohol and exhibits a bright tangy combination of rose, honeysuckle, jasmine tea, and strawberry. If you are looking for a dry European style rosé, Marin Water just might be it.

Serious, yet frivo lous, that was so 2019 and for $25 you can go back there, literally. Shipping and han dling are included on 6-packs. 415.455.9463, peymarin.com

NEW SIPS CANNABIS COCKTAILS

Anyone in the alcohol business knows that one cannot mix cannabis (neither CBD or THC) with alcohol, legally, at least not professionally. But as amateurs we can do what we want to in the safety of our own homes. That said, proceed with caution.

ARTET CANNABIS APERITIF

“Artet is born from the idea that cannabis is the perfect aperitif,” says Artet co-founder Maxwell Spohler, 25. “Capable of opening the mind, mood, and palate.” Labeled as an “infused Italian style beverage” Artet is alcohol free, so it is immune to the licensing requirements needed for ethyl alcohol.

Deriving its bitter taste from gentian Artet serves as a great substitution for Campari or amaro in cocktails, but only in the amateur realm. Make no mistake, Artet is a THC product and not a CBD one. There is definitely a psychoactive effect. Currently ONA LIFE is the only Marin retailer of Artet, and only delivers to the greater San Rafael area. A 750ml bottle is $55. Order online, by phone, or by text message. 415.909.0382, ona.life

VIV & OAK

Offered in various blends of THC and CBD, Viv & Oak wines are low in calories and carry little risk of going overboard as with certain edibles that hit like a brick wall hours later. This is due to the company’s “nano-encapsulation” process that speeds up the effect of the cannabis, which you can feel after 10 to 15 minutes. A 750ml bottle is $35. Online ordering is available through Mission Cannabis Club. 415.970.9333, vivandoak.com

NICE GUYS DELIVERY

Nice Guys Delivery offers a selection of Cann “social” tonics: grapefruit rosemary, blood orange carda mom and lemon lavender. Gee, we wonder what you could mix tonic with? Whatever it is we bet it is delicious. Cann’s tonics are low calorie and include organic agave nectar, organic lemon juice, natural lavender flavor, and of course, cannabis extract. 2mgTHC/4mgCBD per serving. $7 each or $30 for a six pack. 415.855.5914, niceguysdelivery.com

KIKOKO

Kikoko offers cannabis tea deliveries free on orders of $100 or more. Online ordering for delivery only. Their website lists a recipe for a “Mellow Mule:” 4 ounces Kikoko Sypmpa-Tea (turmeric and ginger), 4 ounces of ginger beer and a squeeze of lime juice. Remember you can always add a shot of vodka or use alcoholic ginger beer at your own home if you want to. SympaTea is $8 for a single pouch, $24 for four pouches, and $56 for 10. 3mg THC/20mg CBD per serving. Some assembly is required. kikoko.com

Best Local Liquor Delivery HANSON

SONOMA, SONOMA COUNTY AND SAUSALITO Hanson of Sonoma was one of the first to switch gears, first bringing back staff to produce hand sanitizer for first responders in the Bay Area, and then introducing a bevy of products available for delivery, including their entire line of fine organic grape vod kas (habanero, Meyer lemon, espresso, etc.), their exceptional single malt Double Barrel Whiskey, as well as cocktail kits and pre-batched cocktails. Does anyone know how to make cucumber gimlets at home? Hanson’s does. And they come pre-batched: 4 cocktails for $25.

“We are sending out drivers everyday with deliveries for a straight $10 flat fee, which covers the driver’s gas,” says Hanson. “It was a way to bring back employees who had been working in the tasting rooms. In many cases if you order before noon, we can deliver it the same day.” hansonofsonoma.com

Best Local Wine Delivery WINES THAT DELIVER

NICASIO

Wines That Deliver is a winery that operates under both the names Ellen Redding and Brainchild. Their Ellen Redding label is for Marin County wines only and currently produces a chardonnay and a pinot noir both sourced from Stubbs Vineyard in West Marin, as well as a Paydirt blend that incorporates 2% cabernet sauvignon from Pacheco Ranch in Novato. McNeil plans to add a 100% cab from Pacheco and a cab/montepulciano/pinot noir blend using grapes from Pacheco Ranch, McEvoy Ranch and Stubbs. Their six bottle sampler is a great value and includes both tax and delivery. 415.662.2046, winesthatdeliver.com

WEST COAST WINE AND CHEESE MILL VALLEY

After a handful of successful years in San Francisco, West Coast Wine and Cheese owners Chris and Lindsey Wanner were ready to take on another outpost, and Mill Valley proved to be the ideal place. The more wine you order, the more you save, and there is an extra 15% off when you buy any four or more bottles. 415.785.3408, westcoastsf.com

Best Local Wine TIBURON WINE TIBURON

If you live in Southern Marin, Tiburon Wine’s proprietor, Jerry Horn aka “Dr. Champagne” will be happy to perform a house call on minimum orders of $100. Tiburon Wine carries several wines by Marin’s own Skywalker Ranch and features over 75 different champagnes on their list. And their prices are quite reasonable too, mostly in the $20 through $70 range.

Check out this very extensive wine list online and then call and make your appointment. 415.435.3499, tiburonwine.net

BEST TO GO Cocktails COPITA TEQUILERIA Y COMIDA

SAUSALITO

James Beard award-winning chef Joanne Weir recognizes that just as much care should be put into the margarita “mix” as is put into the tequila. Her team and her have hit on a grand idea: to-go margaritas by the gallon. Genius. “When you are sipping and sheltering in place, we are offering you a gallon of our mix of agave nectar and freshly squeezed lime juice along with a bottle of 100% agave Herradura tequila to make our award-winning margarita in your own home. You will have the fixings to make 15 margaritas. A killer deal.” she says. At $70, which includes chips and salsa, you save about $100 over the dine-on-the-patio price. Salut. 415.331.7400, copitarestaurant.com

BUNGALOW 44 MILL VALLEY

Bungalow 44 knows that classics like the old fashioned really don’t need no fancy glass at all, just the right ratios and the right product. And most importantly someone who knows what they are doing to make it. Bungalow’s house infused pecan bourbon makes all the difference in their old fashioned. We dare you. $20 for two or $35 for four is the deal of the century. 415.381.2500, bungalow44.com

CUCINA RESTAURANT AND WINE BAR

SAN ANSELMO

Not just great Italian food, but cocktail delivery, too. Favaloso. You must be in a five mile radius, you must order food and there’s a minimum of $50 as well as a $5 fee. But still, delivery. Cucina is offering all their specialty cocktails to-go or for delivery (both of which must also include food). $12 for a 4 ounce portion (which is slightly larger than cocktails served there) of any of their favorites. Returning the bottle will earn you $1 off the next one. Call early, their phone lines get quite busy. 415.454.2942, cucina-sa.com

GUESTHOUSE

KENTFIELD

When it comes to cocktails, Guesthouse is scorching, in particular, their Sunburn Cocktail. A fiery combination of tequila, lime juice, cucumber and cayenne. Ay Caramba. $20 for two servings is sure to have you feeling the burn. Remember that you must also order food in order to get cocktails to go. Maybe their Prime New York steak for $37? Or a Big Ol Cookie for $5? Either way it works. 415.419.5101, guesthousemarin.com

DRINKS CATEGORY SPONSOR

Team's top picks. happy hour

JASON’S This local happy hour has us social distancing on the patio, for their well-priced drink specials and generous happy hour food menu. Try the HOT SHOT. It’s sushi grade hamachi, ponzu, avocado, scallions, toasted sesame seeds, thinly sliced red jalapeño, fried ginger and a touch of white truffle oil. Served in a shot glass. You’ll want a round for the table to go with your cocktail.

PER RY’S There’s something about a drink under the redwoods at the end of the day. Perry’s outdoor happy hour is a special treat. We’ve been known to make a meal of their famous potato skins. Made with bacon, white cheddar, scallions, spicy ranch.

cocktails

GUEST HOUSE “They don’t take themselves too seriously…just the drinks.” It's their motto and we can see why. Whether batching cocktails to go or serving their “properly made martini” their pop-up “parking lot party”, Guest House serves up sophisticated cocktails that make us feel like adults on an evening out.

PLAYA MILL VALLEY

Kill Bill Margarita; house made guacamole and fresh chips on the patio with the sun setting behind you on Mt. Tam. Enough said.

frozen beverages

MILKSHAKES AND FLOATS

Our favorite soft serve is locally made Straus Ice Cream. We love it in seasonal Milkshakes from Gotts like peanut butter and chocolate, or in Root Beer, Orange or Coke floats.

JAMBA JUICE For a healthy and low-calorie afternoon pick-me-up, Jamba’s blended Greens and Ginger is a frosty blend of five ingredients; lemonade peaches kale mangos and ginger, to keep us focused. We like to add an immune boosting daily vitamin zinc shot.

PEET’S The seasonal Citrus Cremcicle cold Brew is a summer treat. Peet’s cold brew, layered with sweetened condensed milk, Yuzu Citrus purée and a swirl of half and half make for a refreshing summer sip.

More of a tea person? The Tropical Green Tea Shaker is green tea hand-shaken with lemonade, sweet strawberry puree, ice and strawberries.

RECIPE:

We love a good Margarita. If you can’t be on a tropical beach this summer try this delicious recipe for a taste of the islands at home.

PINEAPPLE CILANTRO MARGARITA

Ingredients: 2 oz. Casamigos Reposado Tequila 1 oz. Pineapple Juice .5 oz. Fresh Lime Juice .5 oz. Simple Syrup 8-10 Cilantro Leaves

1/2 Rim Equal Parts Sugar/Salt/Cilantro* Garnish with 2 Pineapple Leaves

Wet rim of rocks glass with lime wedge and dip into salt mixture. Combine all ingredients into tin shaker. Add ice, shake vigorously and strain into rimmed rocks glass. Add fresh ice and garnish.

*To Make Cilantro Salt – Dice up fresh cilantro leaves into small pieces. Put on baking sheet and place in oven at 225 degrees for 20 min to dry out. Add more time if needed, but be careful not to burn. Once completely dry, put cilantro contents into your fingers and break into small grain-like pieces. Then add equal parts white granulated sugar and kosher salt.

(Recipe courtesy Mollie Stone’s blog.)

Arts & Entertainment

Inspired by necessity and aided by innovation, Marin County’s community is banding together like never before. Though cultural institutions are being asked to adapt their programming in most extreme fashions, the desire to celebrate our collective, creative spirits persists. Faced with no alternative, now is the time to think outside the box — even if that sometimes means staring at a laptop. BY ZACK RUSKIN

This 56" x 35" sculpture made from paperback covers, wire, mull and thread is called Inquiry, from the 2020 Punctuate series by artist, Lisa Kokin and can be seen online at the Seager Gray gallery in Mill Valley.

We thought this sums up the mood du jour.

AUTHOR EVENTS FROM THE COMFORT OF HOME

Book Passage is one of Marin’s most frequented literary institutions. With the store’s normally hectic schedule of in-person author signings and events on indefinite pause, owners Elaine and Bill Petrocelli are offering a complimentary “Conversations with Authors” series on the store’s website. In addition to hosting digital dialogues with the likes of David Mitchell and Amy Tan, the store will also debut a virtual edition of Anne Lamott’s immensely popular writing workshop, “On Writing,” this August. bookpassage.com

through August 29. In addition, MarinMOCA is also offering virtual tours of two additional exhibitions through their website. marinmoca.org

THE POWER OF PICTURES

Art can soothe the soul. Here are some local art galleries to visit, either online or in-person:

Marin Museum of Contemporary Art Novato; marinmoca.org Museum of International Propaganda San Rafael; museumofpropaganda.org Seager Gray Gallery Mill Valley; seagergray.com

MAKE IT A MOVIE NIGHT

Do you think the projectors at the Rafael are getting lonely? The empty seats at the Lark must surely be missing the smell of fresh popcorn. While their doors remain closed, both institutions are doing what they can to ensure cinematic treasures (along with some sillier fare) are never in short supply. In partnership with the California Film Institute, the “Rafael @ Home” program is now giving films meant for the theater a chance to find their audiences. rafaelfilm. cafilm.org

Meanwhile, the era of the drive-in movie theater has unexpectedly returned. You’ll need to bring your own snacks, but this summer, the Lark is presenting classic films to be enjoyed from the comfort of one’s vehicle at the Bon Air Center. So far, announced titles include Flashdance and Dirty Dancing larktheater.net

With a return date on live local stage productions yet to be determined, the Ross Valley Players have generously made the company’s 2019 production of Moll Flanders available to stream. Starring San Anselmo’s own Amber Collins Crane as the titular Flanders, the show can now be viewed at any time, free of charge, offering viewers the opportunity to transport themselves back to the Barn for an evening. rossval leyplayers.com/moll-flanders-performance

NON-PROFITS IN NEED OF HELPING HANDS

be done from the comfort of home. Here are a few important Marin non-profits looking to actively help the community during this a uniquely difficult moment:

The San Francisco-Marin Food Bank sfmfoodbank.org/volunteer Homeward Bound of Marin hbofm.org Big Skills Tiny Homes bigskillstinyhomes.org

DOES LAUGHTER STILL COUNT AS MEDICINE?

There have not been many valid reasons to bust a gut laughing as of late, but that may soon be about to change. The team at 142 Throckmorton — the Mill Valley theater that’s played host to everyone from Robin Williams to Dana Carvey over the years — is currently hoping to crowdsource $12,000 in funds to develop a “live-streaming system” to deliver future programming of all stripes. (gofundme.com/f/ join-the-stream-team)

If you can’t see comedy, why not make some? ImprovMarin is selling a slew of virtual improvisational comedy classes that will happen on the video-chat software Zoom. There are also digital shows to stream for those who aren’t interested in tapping into their funny bone quite yet. True beginners can try ImprovMarin’s “Intro to Improv” drop-in online classes. There are also additional, more specifically-focused adult classes as well as courses for children. improvmarin.com

FEED YOUR SOUL AT THE FARMER’S MARKET

Does anything compare with the splendor of a busy Farmer’s Market in full swing?

The smells, the shouts and the Nutelladrenched crepes are, for some, an integral aspect of our communal experience. Sadly, the downtown San Rafael farmer’s market has been cancelled for the summer, but two other options remain in operation for now: Thursdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. (10 Avenu e of the Flags, San Rafael) Sundays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. (3501 Civic Cente r D rive, San Rafael)

Community means giving back. Right now, there are a thousand ways to help — many of which can CREDIT

Book Passage (2018)

We are so lucky to be in Marin County. The people who live here love good books, they appreciate meeting authors, and they are wonderfully supportive of our store. The reputation of Marin residents is now recognized nationwide and publishers rush to send authors to our community. Many of our customers have stepped in to help us.

Marin MOCA (2019)

People in Marin really value artwork and they take the time and effort to learn more about it and support local artists. This is a very encouraging place to have an arts and culture-related business. There is a lot we can do to feature artists-ofcolor and to develop partnerships with local organizations who can recommend the best way to deliver art-related opportunities to diverse communities.

Best Family Fun Activities

BY DONNA BERRY GLASS

DIY ART KITS

Have a budding, young Vera Wang or Frank Lloyd Wright in your family? Studio4Art, with locations in Novato and San Rafael, has the ideal fix for future artists and designers who aren’t able to attend art camp in person this summer: do-it-yourself art kits. With four themes — fashion design, clay sculpture, photography and architecture — the kits come fully stocked for a full week of projects, along with stepby-step instruction and digital tutorials. studio4art.net

FAMILY COOKING CLASS

For those families who may not feel comfortable dining out yet but looking for something different to try along with a learning experience, Camp EDMO has a virtual cooking class designed to get kids and their parents creating alongside in the kitchen. Led by former Top Chef contestants and winners, each class focuses on a dish that the whole family can enjoy, such as veggie flatbread, chicken parmesan and pancakes and smoothies. campedmo.org

VIRTUAL CUPCAKE DECORATING

Want to really impress your friends and let your kids have some sticky sweet fun? Cupcake guru Sarah Thongnopneua of Baked Blooms in San Anselmo offers a set of video tutorials designed to show you how to

Ogi Teker, Istanbul Rug

What are your favorite galleries? Why?

The Marin Open Studios (MOS) showings have been some of my favorites over the years. The artists are diverse and the group awards scholarships and bolster the arts scene in Marin. Win-win-win.

Do you have a favorite movie theater?

Yes, I love the Smith Rafael Film Center on 4th Street in San Rafael. I’m a big fan of independent, foreign films.

Favorite streaming specials during COVID?

Dirty Dancing on Amazon Prime. It’s a classic.

Favorite local interior designers?  Michelle Squire of Studio Squire is one of the best designers I’ve worked with. Very organized and very talented.

transform simple buttercream frosting into gorgeous roses, hydrangeas, daffodils, chrysanthemums, peonies and other garden varieties into eye-popping, edible cupcake toppers. Give your kids a pastry bag and let ‘em go to town. bakedblooms.com

SCHOOL OF ROCK

There’s just something about kids banging away on drums that makes them happy (and drives parents crazy). The husband-wife musician team at Wow Music Studios can turn any kid into a rock star and introduce them to instruments, vocalization and even song-writing. The studio offers music lessons and band rehearsals all year long including virtual lessons on Zoom, and will soon offer an outdoor version of its popular Born to Rock camp wowmusicstudios.com

Favorite local architects?  They are in Southern California but the work Steven Ehrlich and Takashi Yanai (EYRC Architects) have done up here is stunning.

Favorite local artist?  You can’t go wrong with Tom Killion’s classic woodcut prints.

Favorite local music venues?

So many good ones. Sweetwater Music Hall is great and so is Terrapin Crossroads. 19 Broadway will be missed.

Baked Blooms cupcakes

School of Rock

wellness & Beauty

Apparently the best way through this pandemic is one breath at a time, eyes closed, thinking of nothing. Yep, this sounds unrealistic to us too, so we have gathered our top free online guided meditation centers.

See you on Zoom!

Best Guided Meditations/ Centers online

SOULSTICE MIND + BODY SPA

Streaming live, virtual classes at 9:30 a.m. Monday through Saturday and 10:30 a.m. on Sunday while shelter-in-place remains. Tune in live via Instagram at @soulsticemindbodyspa or through their Facebook page. All classes are free, but donations are appreciated. soulsticemindbodyspa.com

SPIRIT ROCK

In response to current conditions, Spirit Rock’s Dharma programs are now offered exclusively online. Classes are free, but when you register to join virtually, they encourage paying at the highest level you are able to in support of Spirit Rock, their staff and their assembly. spiritrock.org

SF ZEN CENTER AT GREEN GULCH FARM

San Francisco Zen Center’s Online Zendo offers Zazen meditation, Dharma talks, ceremonies, and meditation instruction every day of the week via Zoom. Classes are open to all and require no registration. Donations are appreciated. Visit their website for schedule and Zoom links. sfzc.org/ online-programs

MINDFUL ONE MEDITATION STUDIO

Held in their virtual Zoom studio, Mindful One offers free online meditation classes at noon on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Classes are 30-minutes long and suitable for all experience levels. The first half of class is a guided meditation, the second is a silent, breath-focused meditation. mindfulonemeditation.com

True Color

Both brilliant blondes and sultry brunettes did not fare so well as the shelter-in-place mandate progressed. Luckily, a handful of hair heroes were able to step in and save the day with home hair dye kits.

DIPIETRO TODD

With locations in Mill Valley and San Francisco, diPietro Todd does not sell color kits but has many root touch-up sprays available for delivery. dipietrotodd.store

EDWARD’S SALON

Perhaps you caught this when it aired on KRON4. Edward’s was one of the first salons to mail color touchup kits to clients back in March, and is continuing to do so. edwardssalon.com

NH2 SALON

This Novato salon is offering virtual consultations, color match guidance and step-by-step support. Get a professional color kit delivered to you with free two-day shipping. nh2salon.com

CHRISTOPHER SALON

This Mill Valley and Tiburon salon recently opened up their patio for haircuts, however the custom coloring is still done via take home kits. Christopher and crew will talk you through your individual needs to ensure your pandemic best. christopher-salon.com

Natural Skincare ProductsAt home routines

Of course Marin County is going to have a plethora of everything "free" and "safe" beauty products. Here are our top picks.

EO PRODUCTS

For the past 24 years, this San Rafael-based company has been sourcing natural, organic, and responsiblyfarmed ingredientsfor its essential oils...Fun fact: EO gel and spray hand sanitizers were the first sanitizers ever to be Environmental Working Group verified. eoproducts.com

TRUE BOTANICALS

Every True Botanicals formula is MADE SAFE certified. MADE SAFE products are entirely free of: endocrine (hormone) disruptors, carcinogens, para bens, SLS and SLES, phthalates, synthetic fragrance, GMOs and animal cruelty. truebotanicals.com

LAUREL WHOLE PLANT ORGANICS

Sausalito-based Laurel offers a range of organic skincare firmly rooted in the principles and practices of Slow Beauty that are formulated with whole

Drawing Room Marin (2019)

During this pandemic, I was very touched by how the Tiburon Chamber of Commerce and community pulled together and showed their support for local businesses via fundraising, general outreach to keep all the businesses informed, and even offering pro bono legal advice. When I started my business in Tiburon 25 years ago, I knew that I was in a very special community — this pandemic has confirmed that there is nowhere else I would rather have my business. I am also very grateful for my landlord Laleh Zelinsky’s generosity.

We have been extremely blessed by our thoughtful and generous clientele, who are more like family after all these years. We have been humbled by their support. We fully intend to continue to be of service to our clients and community, even if it looks different than it used to. We love what we do and are committed to our clients and this industry.

Eva Claiborne Wellness (2019)

HEALTH & WELLNESS CATEGORY SPONSOR

plant ingredients and without aloe, glycerine or alcohol — common ingredients that dilute or cheapen the formulas. laurelskin.com

VINTNER’S DAUGHTER (NAPA)

Producing an active botanical serum as well as an active treatment essence, Vintner’s Daughter formulations are designed to take the place of several standard skincare steps. vitnersdaughter.com

JUICE BEAUTY

Juice Beauty skincare and makeup products meet rigorous USA organic regulations supported by solid eco-values that include purchasing many ingredients locally from West Coast certified organic farmers, manufacturing only in the USA — often with solar and wind power — using sustainable containers and printing with soy ink. juicebeauty.com

ANDALOU NATURALS

In 2011, Novato’s Andalou became the first beauty brand to achieve 100% Non-GMO Project verification on every single product. Andalou is also gluten free, cruelty free and never tests on animals. andalou.com

Top picks from cofounder Meg Adelman

BEST WELLNESS TREATMENTS / CENTERS

9 CORNERS, founded by Randy Gibson in 1999, is a certified holistic healing clinic located in Novato. Services include acupuncture, electrical stimulus, massage, chiroprac tic adjustments and other body work. Gibson’s wealth of knowledge and 20+ years of experience has honed his intuition for treating clients and generated repeated successes for those with musculoskeletal pain, inflammation, athletic recovery needs and more. club9cryo.com

CLUB 9 CRYO is the newest addition to 9 Corners Functional Medicine Clinic. With a focus on the healing benefits of cryotherapy, their treatments aim to attain homeostasis, reduce pain, improve circulation, boost mood, energize and stimulate metabolism. Pair a 3-minute whole body cryotherapy session with a 30-minute infrared sauna treatment for the ultimate rejuvenation of body and mind. club9cryo.com

CAVALLO HEALING ARTS CENTER AND SPA, located in Sausalito, offers facials and spa treatments using sustainable, organic products that align with their social and environmental values. Their select skincare lines are

sustainably-harvested and avoid petroleum-based prod ucts, harsh surfactants and parabens. After a facial and a dip in their warm pools, enjoy a clean lunch at the Farley Bar’s outdoor patio with views of the Golden Gate Bridge. cavallopoint.com/spa

BEST healthy foods

URBAN REMEDY is an organic, fresh foods company providing high quality, on-thego nutritious drinks, meals, snacks and treats. With their “food is healing” approach, their products not only taste good, but are good for you and the planet. For a drink that detoxifies and refreshes, try the Deep Cleaning coldpressed juice. A kid-friendly favorite is the Warrior — an antioxidant rich smoothie with chia. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant salad or superfood smoothie, you can rely on Urban Remedy for a healthy meal in a pinch. urbanremedy.com

RIO ROCK AÇAÍ CAFE, located in Kentfield, is a natural food cafe serving açaí bowls and smoothies packed with nutrient-dense foods. They offer over 20 bowl and smoothie combinations, countless additions and toppings, and plenty of kid-friendly options. For a lowsugar, high protein meal, try the Pelé bowl — a pure açai bowl topped with hemp seeds, cacao nibs, goji berries and more. riorockacaicafe.com

THE JOINERY is a mainstay for locally-sourced dining in Marin. They currently offer socially-dis tanced outdoor seating at their waterfront location in Sausalito. If you’re looking for one of the best salads in the bay area, try their kale and radicchio caesar. joineryca.com

NAVITAS ORGANICS

is an organic superfood company committed to providing sustainably-sourced plant-based nutrition. From smoothie blends to seeds, dried berries and snacks they offer go-to products for daily wellness. navitasorganics.com

HEALTH TIP

“My family has been doing intermittent fasting for about six months. We break our fast with high-fat antioxidant-rich, anti inflammatory, immune boost ing smoothies. Smoothies have become a staple in our house — they’re easy to make, appeal to all ages and can be packed with superfoods.”

GO-TO SMOOTHIE

1 1/2 tablespoons Navitas Keto Cacao Powder

1 scoop cacao and greens essential blends

Tbsp nut butter

8 ounces plant-based milk of choice

Handful of Spinach

Navitas Daily Immunity Boost

1/4 to 1/2 Banana

WELCOME TO THE FIFTH ANNUAL FACES OF MARIN. When you think about it, every business is a people business. And it’s not just clients and customers; there are important personalities driving the success of every endeavor. The people who make these businesses live and grow are also the ones you’ll see behind the counter, at a desk or on your doorstep. So take a moment to come face to face with these important Marin personalities.

It’s not what you know, but who you know. FACES

FACE OF Ruhland,

PAYROLL PLAYS A CRITICAL ROLE FOR EVERY BUSINESS. Since 1990, Accuchex has been privileged with the responsibility of paying people correctly, and on-time, every pay cycle. Leslie Ruhland is a Marin County native and is the EVP of Accuchex Corp. Headquartered in Novato for 30 years, Accuchex is the largest independent payroll company in the Bay Area. “One of my favorite things”, says Ruhland, “about working with companies’ payroll is that no matter the size or industry, our friendly and knowledgeable staff adds value, and in doing so, we become part of our clients’ adventure.” Accuchex provides innovative workforce solutions with web-based Time2Pay,

blending “Hi-Tech with Hi-Touch”. Accuchex supports employers with one to thousands of employees nationwide. Accuchex appreciates that Payroll remains at the center of our daily lives and the fabric of our communities. During this challenging business environment, we are glad to be a resource to our clients as they navigate the fall out and recovery of Covid 19. Supporting employer clients with the reports and data for PPP loans, remote workforce management and returning employees with worksite safety compliance posters.

365 Bel Marin Keys Blvd, Novato, CA 415.883.7733, ext 110 l leslie.ruhland@accuchex.com

FACE OF CONCIERGE MATCH MAKING

CASSIE ZAMPA-KEIM IS A RENOWNED DATING AND RELATIONSHIP STRATEGIST, author, speaker and coach. She is the founder and CEO of Innovative Match, a national relationship-services firm. One of the industry’s leading experts on dating, Cassie has worked with thousands of singles over the past three decades. She’s been named one of the World’s Top Matchmakers (UK Dating), written for and been featured in leading media publications and is the author of the acclaimed “Finding Love After 50.” One of the early pioneers of using online dating with clients, Cassie draws the latest technologies to service clients.

Cassie launched Innovative Match to deliver a 21st century approach for helping clients to realize their relationship goals. Cassie offers a holistic, data-driven roadmap for transforming clients’ dating lives, drawing upon technology expertise, psychological training and work as a dating and life coach as well as a dedicated heart.

Ross, CA 415.259.8714 l innovative-match.com

Cassie Keim, Innovative Match

FACES OF DESIGNER FLOORING

Debbie, Kate and Nicole, Architectural Design Carpets

DEBBIE DUERING, OWNER OF ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN CARPETS, has been a leader in the Bay Area flooring industry since 1990. Kate Googins, ADC’s COO, has been with the company for over 15 years; Kate is a passionate team player but also a natural problem solver. Debbie and Kate work hand-in-hand with the Bay Area’s top interior designers, architects, and realtors on residential and commercial properties. These women keep up-to-date with the industry’s top flooring trends ranging from carpet and hardwood to custom rugs and commercial flooring. Using a woman’s ingenuity Debbie, Kate, and Nicole, constantly thinks outside the box and their attention to

detail is not only a level of standard at Architectural Design Carpets but part of their creative nature.

When it comes to investing in flooring for any project, no matter how big or small, the foundation of your home starts with Architectural Design Carpets.

1111 Francisco Blvd East, Suite 3, San Rafael, CA 415.458.1717 I architecturaldesigncarpets.com

FACES OF TRUST AND ESTATE LITIGATION

Experience. Integrity. Solutions. These are what set Epstein + Holtzapple apart.

THIS HIGHLY SPECIALIZED AREA OF LAW focuses on conflicts that arise when a loved one dies, or is still alive but is unable to manage their finances. “We meet clients when they are grieving the loss of a loved one and are involved in a lawsuit. Guiding clients who are experiencing such challenges allows us to connect with them on a deeper level, which is incredibly gratifying. Zealously advocating for our clients in court also brings us great joy,” attests Robyn Christo, one of the firm’s attorneys.

With decades of combined experience as trust and estate litigators, the attorneys at Epstein + Holtzapple have built their reputation not only on their deep knowledge and legal skills, but also on their ability to guide clients with empathy through the tumultuous experience of being embroiled in a family conflict. The firm’s approach typically results in the formation of authentic and lasting relationships with those whom they represent.

711 Grand Avenue, Suite 230, San Rafael, CA 628.240.3854 | epholtzlaw.com

WE HELP FAMILIES REDUCE THEIR COLLEGE COSTS. Did you know 529 plans work against your obtaining scholarships and grants, and grandparent owned 529 plans reduce awards five times as much? If you own a home or a rental property they can be excluded as assets thus providing more scholarships and grants for your student. There are hundreds of non-intuitive rules that will increase the amount of scholarships and grants your student may be awarded for college. Many families deserve scholarships and grants but fail to receive them by not deciphering the thousands of pages of the Department of Education Codes.

We have read them, know the rules, and will help you maximize the amount of scholarships and grants your student can receive for college.

College Cash Solutions, based in San Rafael since 2010, has helped hundreds of families. Let us help yours. Contact us at www. CollegeCashSolutions.com and book a meeting to find out how we can help you Reduce Your College Costs.

4040 Civic Center Drive, Suite 200, San Rafael, CA 415.742.0717 l CollegeCashSolutions.com

FACE OF SUSTAINABLE, LOW-CARBON INVESTING

THERE IS A LOW-CARBON REVOLUTION SWEEPING THE WORLD, particularly in energy, transportation, construction and finance. However, many financial firms are slow to offer guidance to their clients about adjusting their investment strategies to benefit from this secular trend. Consequently, investors risk being left behind. Larry Fink, CEO of BlackRock, the world’s largest money manager just wrote: “The evidence on climate risk is compelling investors to reassess core assumptions about modern finance,” and declared his firm would be launching funds that shun fossil-fuel oriented stocks.

Patrick recommends replacing S&P 500 Index tracking funds that have significant exposure to fossil fuel stocks with green, low-carbon funds, and believes failing to do so means leaving money on the table. Green River is a high-touch boutique investment firm accepting clients interested in lowering their portfolio carbon footprint without sacrificing performance. ($1,000,000 account minimum).

321 San Anselmo Avenue, San Anselmo 415.453.6000 l PCostello@ProtectedInvestors.com GreenRiverFinServ.com

Patrick

FACES OF CALIFORNIA PACIFIC ORTHOPAEDICS

Back row: Keith C. Donatto, MD, John P. Belzer, MD, Mark A. Schrumpf, MD, Frank H. Valone, III, MD, Jon A. Dickinson, MD, Christopher V. Cox, MD; Front row: Lindsey C. Valone, MD, James D. Kelly, II, MD, Keith W. Chan, MD, Peter W. Callander, MD, Robert E. Mayle, Jr, MD, W. Scott Green, MD, Mark I. Ignatius, D.O., Not pictured: H. Relton McCarroll, MD, Adrian J. Rawlinson, MD

WHEN IT COMES TO ORTHOPEDIC AND SPORTS-RELATED INJURIES, there’s only one name you can trust – California Pacific Orthopaedics. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, seasoned professional athlete or suffer from everyday joint pain, our experienced team is here to get you feeling like new. After all, it’s what we’ve been doing for nearly 50 years.

At California Pacific Orthopaedics, we want our patients to get back to enjoying normal life as quickly as possible. That’s why we have in-house X-ray and MRI – including a state-of-the-art wide-bore 3 Tesla MRI. Our wide-bore MRI allows for a quicker scan and a

roomier experience for patients. And, we are now offering evening and weekend appointments!

Please note that we have reorganized our clinics to allow for social distancing and deep cleaning after each visit. Your safety is our priority. We look forward to serving you at one of our four offices. Visit calpacortho.com for more information.

1099 D St, Suite 105, San Rafael, CA 3838 California St, Suites 108, 516, 715, San Francisco, CA 415.668.8010 l calpacortho.com

FACE OF MUSIC FOR A CAUSE

MICHELLE SCHMITT is a singer/songwriter and producer living in Marin with a passion for music and philanthropy. Growing up in Detroit, she was surrounded by great music, and at 18 years old packed up her guitar and moved to California.

A modern 70’s vibe best describes her sound with songs that stand the test of time. Michelle’s latest album, Light was released July 1st. The record features original songs recorded and produced earlier this year at her Pine Mountain Studio, alongside her band.

100% of all proceeds of Michelle’s music go to causes she is passionate about. Most recently, she has donated protective gear to medical workers helping hospitalized children (Little Wishes), contributed to Extrafood.org, World Central Kitchen and organizations providing shelter and support to those suffering during this time.

Michelle also serves on two of Joe Biden’s campaign committees and is committed to making a difference. Visit Michelleschmitt.com to learn more and help contribute to our community!

Michelle Schmitt

FACES OF SOCIAL IMPACT AND COMMUNITY

HADLEY GENERAL CONSTRUCTION INC. HAS SERVED THE BAY AREA SINCE 1950. Some of the charitable contributions:

• Donated The Bandwagon (mobile concert stage) to Belvedere’s Concerts-in-the-Park.

• 24 y ears of annual donation to Concerts-in-the-Park.

• Replaced entry stairs at Old St. Hilary’s Church.

• Donated labor to install historic signs throughout Belvedere and Tiburon.

• Donated gazebo at Belvedere Park for Belvedere’s Centennial celebration.

• Donated all labor for playground construction at Belvedere City Park.

• Bu ildout of Belvedere-Tiburon Visitor Center for the Tiburon Chamber of Commerce.

85 Beach Road, Belvedere, CA l Lic#702420 415.383.0583 l hadleyconstruction.com

BESS FRIDAY

FACE OF FULLSERVICE INTERIOR DESIGN

Holly Hollenbeck, HSH Interiors Principal Designer

AS A VISUAL OMNIVORE WHO EAGERLY POURED THROUGH HER MOTHER’S ARCHITECTURAL DIGEST MAGAZINES, Holly Hollenbeck’s raw talent and passion for design was apparent at a young age. Before establishing HSH Interiors in 2002, Holly primed her entrepreneurial spirit and developed a sharp business acumen working in investment banking, consulting and at an internet start-up. Ultimately, she decided to pursue what she had always gravitated towards and enrolled at UC Berkeley’s Interior Design Program and quickly took the leap to start her own company. Driven by the mantra that “life is not a dress rehearsal,” Holly believes everyone deserves a home that is a means to living life to the fullest; a bespoke space that embodies their dreams, passions and lifestyle. While Holly’s projects are predominantly in the Bay Area, her portfolio also includes clients in Jackson Hole, Squaw Valley, Manhattan Beach and Beverly Hills. Holly was a longtime Marin resident and currently lives on San Francisco’s Alamo Square with her husband and three children.

7 Clement Street, San Francisco, CA 415.702.6460 l hsh-interiors.com

SINCE 1965, LAMPERTI CONTRACTING & DESIGN continues to be Marin County’s premier kitchen and bath design firm. The community of Marin retains our expertise for a myriad of servicesturnkey design-build, custom cabinetry or just adding Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove appliances to their living spaces. We understand trends — what was old is new again with various updated features — aged brass, wood finishes, texture and pops of colors. Join us at our newly reimagined showroom.

Featuring the latest in custom cabinetry, countertops, mixed metals, oversized and custom hoods; and our new Sub-Zero/Wolf/Cove appliance parlor.

“I’m seeing a new spin of old classic designs being incorporated in Marin’s finest homes.” — Sean Kelly, Owner/CEO 1241 Andersen Drive, San Rafael, CA 415.454.1623 l lampertikitchens.com

FACE OF PLASTIC SURGERY FOR BAY AREA WOMEN

Karen M. Horton, MD, MSc, FACS, FRCSC

DR. KAREN HORTON is one of very few women Plastic Surgeons in the Bay Area. In private practice since 2006, Dr. Horton focuses on cosmetic surgery for women of the face, neck, breasts or body and complicated breast reconstruction or cosmetic revision cases.

A Marin resident and mother of fraternal twin girls, Dr. Karen sees fellow Marin Moms in consultation for Mommy Makeover procedures including breast augmentation, breast lifts or reductions, tummy tucks, liposuction, labiaplasty and non-surgical cosmetic treatments such as Botox and other neuromodulators, dermal fillers, IPL and CoolSculpting.

Dr. Horton’s entire office team is dedicated to providing EACH patient with the most comfortable, unintimidating and positive experience, from the first email or phone call to the final results! She treats her patients like a good friend or family member, is available to them 24/7, and demands the very best results, no matter how minor the procedure. A perfectionist is exactly what a Plastic Surgeon should be!

2100 Webster Street, #506, San Francisco, CA 415.923.3067 l drkarenhorton.com

@drkarenhorton

FACE OF ORTHODONTICS

Jason Lee, D.D.S.

DR. JASON LEE’S DEDICATION to his patients and craft make him a true find in Marin County. A graduate of Columbia University’s School of Dental Medicine, he has spent his career cultivating a unique approach to orthodontics, marrying his knowledge and focus with a family-friendly ethos that welcomes children and adults alike. Built from the ground up, JL orthodontics has been described as calm and zen- facilitating a smooth orthodontic experience for all involved.

As a result-driven orthodontist, Dr. Lee tailor-makes every treatment plan to fit with the unique needs of each patient. He arrives at the

finish-line with spectacular smiles by providing an unparalleled level of care.

Dr. Lee lives in West Marin with his wonderful wife, two boisterous boys, and two Rhodesian Ridgebacks in tow. JL Orthodontics is here to care for you and your family during your orthodontic years.

770 Tamalpais Drive, Suite 401A, Corte Madera, CA 415.924.JLEE (5533) | info@jlorthodontics.com jlorthodontics.com

FACE OF FASHION LIFESTYLE OPTIMIZATION

Victoria Hitchcock Style

SF’S HUSTLE CALLED ME “THE HOODIE EXTERMINATOR.” The Times (London) said I am “given to acts of benevolent ruthlessness.” But I prefer to think of myself as a style-icon creator and fashion lifestylist, transforming my clients’ fashion and lifestyle into a business or personal brand as unique as they are.

A product of southern California and Spain, my fashion journey began at age 10 on a family trip. As others viewed artwork at the Museo del Prado in Madrid, I dangled my scrawny legs from a bench, mentally dressing passing visitors with elements from the classic paintings on display.

I still optimize people’s style, but now it’s because they ask. And instead of using classic paintings, I use the Deconstructed Office and Lifestyle™ approach I’ve created. Personal branding for work and life, in-person and virtual.

It’s gratifying to be referred to as “the world’s most exclusive stylist” by GQ, but the truth is, my most satisfying job is being a mom to my four kids.

Bay Area, CA 415.779.4577 l victoriahitchcock.style

TILE AND STONE FABRICATION AND INSTALLATION

Martha Bodell, North Coast

NORTH COAST TILE & STONE has been helping people navigate thru heartache due to the fires over the past 3 years. Now we face another challenging time with Covid19. NCT continues to be a company that cares, helps, contributes and is dedicated to keeping you in your home and working for you in a way that is mindful as well as detail orientated.

Martha leads the North Coast Tile and Showroom team in working with designers, contractors, architects and homeowners with a confident, thoughtful and professional attitude.

NCT is a one stop shop which offers stone slabs, a beautiful tile selection, design services and installation of both stone and tile. One client says, “Being in Martha’s showroom is like being in her living room. The care that was taken with the selection, design and installation of our slabs and tile made us feel like family”.

Please call with any questions on how to schedule appointments with us during this time.

3854 Santa Rosa Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA 707.586.2064 l nctile.com

FACES SURGERY AND SPA

PLASTIC SURGERY SPECIALISTS (PSS) HAS BEEN A FIXTURE IN MARIN AESTHETICS FOR 13 YEARS, and our three board-certified plastic surgeons boast more than 60 years of combined experience. Our 6000sq. ft. clinic next door to Marin Health Center combines an accredited surgery center, a world class Medspa with specially trained aesthetic nurses utilizing the latest technologies in non-invasive services, and one of the most beautiful, friendly, and professional patient care centers you will find. Our team of 20 professionals works every day to do one thing: provide an exceptional experience, for every patient, every time.

The first half of 2020 brought great challenges to all of us, but we will come out on the other side safer and stronger. We thank our patients for many years of support. 350 Bon Air Road, Suite 300, Greenbrae, CA 415.925.2880 l psspecialists.com

FACE OF YOUTH SERVICES IN MARIN AND BEYOND

Side by Side

AT SIDE BY SIDE, we walk with young people impacted by adversity on their journeys to heal from trauma, restore resilience, and embrace their potential. We provide comprehensive essential services that honor our clients’ unique needs and strengths to prevent the escalation of dangerous conditions and behaviors and set them on a positive path. And against the backdrop of the COVID-19, our behavioral and mental health services are needed now more than ever.

From special education and early intervention in school to LGBTQ support and transitional housing for foster youth, Side by Side provides the safe space most have missed in their lives. When they feel

seen for who they are today, we believe the young people we serve can move with confidence toward a future with meaning and connection.

For 125 years, Side by Side has been at the forefront of best practices in child welfare. Today, Side by Side operates in four counties – Marin, Alameda, Sonoma, and Napa – each year reaching over 2,500 youth ages 5-26 and family members.

300 Sunny Hills Drive, Bldg. #5, San Anselmo, CA 415.457.3200 l SidebySideYouth.org

DURING THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES IT IS ALWAYS COMFORTING TO SEE A FAMILIAR FACE. When you have suffered the loss of a loved one, you can trust that the caring staff at Valley Memorial Park Cemetery & Funeral Home will provide your family with compassionate, dignified, affordable, highest quality of care during your time of need. We take pride in our responsibility to lighten your burden as you take the first steps toward healing. By being full-service facility, we are able to handle all your needs in one location. Funeral Services held in our on-site Chapel or your house of worship, Cemetery Property

for Traditional, Cremation or Green Burial, on-site Crematory, and Reception Center. From the first hour to the funeral service and or graveside burial, we will be there for you and your family.

Valley Memorial Park Cemetery and Funeral Home 650 Bugeia Lane, Novato, CA COA#377, FD#2295 l 415.897-9609 l valleymemorialpark.com

PHOTO BY MARIN IJ STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

FACE OF MAKING LIVES SPARKLE

Samantha Tradelius, Executive Director, Sparkle Foundation Inc. / SparkleBiz

AT SPARKLE, OUR MISSION is to serve single mothers and their children through gifts/goods, enrichment and resources. We have set our sights high and know our efforts are needed now more than ever before.

2019 was a big year for us with the expansion of two new chapters, our reach now expands to Los Angeles and Sacramento metro areas. In March, we enhanced our resource arm introducing, SparkleBiz - where we offer micro-loans focused on single mothers that want to start or grow their businesses.

Currently we are loading 1500 backpacks stuffed with forty items for our youth to begin the school year. Each bag will be filled with school supplies, hand sanitizer and face masks to enter the school year in a positive manner. These bags will be handed out by Team Sparkle and local law enforcement agencies in Novato, San Rafael, Solano County, San Francisco, Citrus Heights and Sacramento County Sheriff offices. We believe in women, and we know we can make a difference in their lives and those of their children as well, together.

Every day is a day to make a difference. Novato, CA 415.552.5600 l sparklenow.org

FACE OF EXCEPTIONAL DERMATOLOGY

Tracy Evans MD, MPH, FAAD, FACMS

DR. TRACY EVANS IS A BOARD CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGIST, MOHS SURGEON, and Medical Director of Pacific Skin & Cosmetic Dermatology in San Francisco and Corte Madera, CA.

As a Cosmetic Dermatologist Dr. Evans specializes in proven, minimally invasive procedures with beautiful results. Dr. Evans and her care team offer clinical appointments while following strict CDC and CA State guidelines to ensure your safety while addressing your skin concerns. The practice also offers online tele-health appointments and virtual cosmetic consults to help to guide your decision-making without leaving your home. She and her team value a personalized approach for facial and body rejuvenation to maximize your natural glow. Dr. Evans is a Master aesthetic injector, laser specialist and body sculpting and tightening authority. She advocates regular skin checks to monitor for the signs of skin disease and skin cancer. She and her team will create a customized regimine for you focused on anti-aging and clean-beauty to optimize the health and radiance of your skin.

770 Tamalpais Drive, Suite 403, Corte Madera, CA I 415.924.2055

2100 Webster Street, Suite 305, San Francisco, CA I 415.202.1540

pacificskin.com

FACES BEAUTY AND WELLNESS

WELCOME TO THE PRACTICE! We are proud of our boutique dental establishment in one of the oldest Victorian buildings, surrounded by Redwoods, in the heart of downtown Mill Valley. With our cozy candles, chandeliers, fountain, classical music, aromas of soothing, anti-mircrobial essential oils…a unique spa-like Marin experience. All the while surrounded by top-notch, state of the art dental technology. It has taken Dr. Yankie, hundreds of hours of study to incorporate the latest, and most conservative methods of sustaining her prime directive, which is taking care of her patients by healing and preserving. Dr. Yankie is on her third-generation cad cam lab, Cerec, to produce same-day, conservative crowns, onlays and veneers. She uses an iTero scanner for digital impressions for Invisalign, retainers, and night guards.

Since 2007, Dr. Yankie has been passionate about providing Invisalign to her patients. This has earned her an Invisalign Gold Plus designation. In addition, she is the President of a team of 38 AACA Dentists, and sits on the Board of the American Academy of

Clear Aligners (AACA). Dr. Yankie just added the most advanced dental laser available, the Fotona LightWalker™, to her practice. It treats gum disease and can even remove decay without numbing. With her laser, she can desensitize teeth, relieve facial pain, help eliminate snoring, improve sleep apnea, naturally plump lips and stimulate collagen improving facial esthetics. The laser is extremely effective at treating sensitive teeth and facial pain.

This laser is a great addition to other services that she offers à la carte, such as: Bleaching, B-12, Botox for masseters and, (per your request!) more esthetic zones soon! Dr. Yankie focuses on individualized, advanced patient care in a relaxing environment. Her entire career she has focused on enhancing her patients’ health and wellness. Coupling genuine caring with state-of-the-art equipment and procedures, she continues to benefit everyone touched by her practice.

239 Miller Ave, Mill Valley, CA 415.383.0824 l dryankie.com

Destinations

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

A diver explores a his toric wooden barge along Emerald Bay's newly opened Heritage Trail.

TAKE A DIVE INTO TAHOE'S MOST UNUSUAL PARK

BY ZACK RUSKIN

WHEN WE THINK of Lake Tahoe in the summertime, the two recreational activities that arguably best capture the natural splendor of this Sierra Nevada treasure are hiking and water sports. Indeed, choosing whether to enjoy some of the region’s countless trails (and eye-popping views) or the pristine water beckoning you for a swim can prove quite challenging.

However, thanks to a new and most unusual trail at Tahoe’s Emerald Bay State Park, visitors can now do both at once.

First opened to the public in the fall of 2018, the Emerald Bay Maritime Heritage Trail is the fi rst of its kind in California. Utilizing scuba or snorkeling gear, visitors are invited to explore a curated underwater trail “showcasing the historic recreational watercraft and

barges that now rest below the surface of Emerald Bay,” with sites ranging in depth from 10 to 60 feet.

Free to access without reservation, the trail currently showcases two sunken wooden barges, a wooden fi shing boat, a hard chine ski ff, and a wooden passenger launch boat named the Florence M. In all cases, these crafts were employed on the lake during the early 20th century,

offering a unique window into Tahoe’s “golden age” of recreation, according to the Sierra State Parks Foundation.

W hile California State Parks granted access to the Historic Dive Barge site in Emerald Bay 1998, the other three dive sites featured on the Emerald Bay Maritime Heritage Trail represent the fi rst time the locations of these sunken crafts has ever been publicly released.

To assist with the experience, underwater interpretative panels have also been placed at the four dive sites, while waterproof cards for divers are available at the park’s visitor centers.

If you’re looking to explore a side of Tahoe you’ve never seen, swap your skis for a snorkel and make your way to this trail unlike any other.

Pedal Away from Crowds to Enjoy Tahoe Safely

With the region cautiously welcoming visitors, outdoor recreation is best BY CARRIE KIRBY

WITH THE CDC RECOMMENDING OUT DOOR ACTIVITIES over indoor ones in terms of COVID-19 risk, Tahoe has never been a more attractive destination. Sure, there may be other places to pursue outdoor activities, but where else can you do it all with the majestic backdrop of that scintillating lake ringed with peaks?

Tahoe is welcoming tourists back — with caution. Just like at home, you gotta wear a mask in public. It’s still recommended that you only hang out with members of your own household. Keep in mind that you are visiting a region with far fewer hospitals than the Bay Area; carelessness could wreak disaster on these beloved lakeside communities. Already this summer, officials in the South Lake Tahoe area linked a July spike in COVID cases to visitors failing to take precautions.

Pedaling a bike is a great way to social distance in the mountain air. There are at least a dozen places to rent on both the north and south shores; Bike Tahoe’s list of shops can get you started.

Rusty? If you haven’t ridden a bike in years, you might find one of the new e-bikes a boon. You can pedal as if you’re riding a reg ular bike, but the motor gives you an assist when you need it to get up the steep parts.

Tahoe Ebikes delivers rental electronic mountain bikes everywhere in North Tahoe, and will come to South Lake Tahoe for a small group.

“I do take extra safety measures, wearing a mask, social distancing, and cleaning/ disinfecting the e-bikes,” said owner Harry Ward. “I have been insanely busy this year.”

Not all mountain bike trails allow e-bikes, but plenty do, such as the 50 miles

of trails at Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park. Ward said one of his renters’ favorite rides is the 14-mile Marlette Flume trail, where you can drink in lake vistas unbound by a car windshield.

“It cuts high above the east side of the lake, my personal favorite area. My only issue was trying to keep my eyes on the trail. Seriously the view is that good,” writes Conor Barry on the MTB Project website.

If you’d prefer one of Tahoe’s many paved bike paths to the mountain trails, check out Bike Tahoe’s wealth of trail guides and maps, which rank rides by challenge level. You can rent a cruiser and hop from strand to strand on the South Tahoe Beach Cruise ride.

Serious cyclists can do their own 72-mile ride around the lake, since the 29th annual America’s Most Beautiful Bike Ride has been postponed to 2021.

One you’ve burned all those calories, you don’t have to go inside to recuperate. Relax with a brew on a terrace with a lake view.

In Tahoe City, kick back at Za’s Lakefront and tuck into Fat Zakel’s Fish Sandwich

In South Lake Tahoe, sip a cocktail and watch the sunset turn the water tangerine from Boathouse on the Pier, located at the Beach Retreat and Lodge resort. Both restaurants were open for dining in at press time, but because pandemic conditions are unpredictable, it’s a good idea to call first to get the current status. The Tahoe area stretches over two states and multiple counties, and with the COVID crisis constantly evolving, it’s hard to predict what will be open at any given time.

Clockwise, from left: Visitors are literally submerged in local history; Boathouse on the Pier; At Emerald Bay's new Heritage Trail.

Eat & Drink

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

Alfresco All Summer

If we are looking for silver linings during the COVID-19 pandemic, one obvious one is how local businesses and cities are pivoting to keep our residents healthy and the economy moving forward. As Marin continues to navigate the murky reopening process, towns and small businesses are busy crafting innovative ways to welcome back their customers while following safety guidelines. Here are some new events throughout the county that have been created to help local restaurants and stores bounce back.

Dining Under the Lights – San Rafael

The San Rafael Downtown Business Improvement District is holding Dining Under the Lights Thursday nights from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. so that local restaurants can expand into the street, and customers can enjoy Fourth Street under a myriad of Tivoli Lights. It's scheduled to run the rest of the summer, closing down Lincoln Ave to D Street and Shaver Street to G Street with all cross streets except Cijos.

Miller Avenue Closure –Mill Valley

The City of Mill Valley is closing down Miller Avenue between Throckmorton and Sunnyside Avenue

starting at 4 p.m. Friday, July 24 through Sunday, July 26 to accommodate outdoor dining. It is unconfirmed whether this event will be ongoing. This is a response to a similar, successful earlier event titled #MillerTakeover which also saw the closure of Miller Avenue between Sunnyside and Throckmorton Avenue. Parts of the Downtown Plaza is being used for additional outdoor dining to accommodate larger seating areas. In a creative twist, Bungalow 44 has converted their once bustling parking lot into an expansive outdoor seating area to accommodate more customers.

Downtown Novato Outdoor Dining – Novato

The City of Novato is hosting Downtown Novato Outdoor Dining with the Downtown Business Association. Grant Avenue will be closed down every weekend starting at 1 p.m on Friday through 7 a.m. on Monday to ensure there is a larger space availalbe for outdoor dining and small businesses.

Caledonia Street Dining Program – Sausalito

The City of Sausalito started the Caledonia Street Dining Program on July 2. It closes Caledonia Street

between Pine and Johnson streets and runs from dinner on Thursdays and lunch and dinner on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The street reopens at 9 p.m. Restaurants currently participating include Fast Food Francais, Sartaj, San Drino and Osteria Divino.

Menke Park Space – Corte Madera

The town of Corte Madera is utilizing two parking areas adjacent to Menke Park to provide local restaurants and businesses with much needed relief intended to house meetings and additional dining spaces. The program will run through the summer months, Wednesday through Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

On the Avenue – San Anselmo

San Anselmo’s On the Avenue Project began on June 27 to support local businesses. The program shuts down Tamalpais Avenue to Tunstead Avenue and the Pine Street parking lot to Woodland Avenue on weekends starting at 3:00 p.m. on Friday through 11:59 p.m on Sunday to allow local shops and restaurants to expand their outdoor accommodations.

Slow Street Program – Tiburon

Tiburon’s Slow Street Program runs from July 3 until Labor Day, September 6, in an effort to promote local restaurants and businesses by providing a space for customers to shop and dine safely. The program closes down fairly inactive streets from Friday afternoons through Sunday evenings, and closes Main Street during the weekends from Friday to Sunday night. All participating streets wil be closed to through traffic.

Outdoor dining has always been appealing, and now there are more options than ever in Marin. BY KATE DELONG

Dine

AN INSIDER’S GUIDE TO RESTAURANTS IN MARIN EDITED BY CHRISTINA MUELLER

Which restaurants offer takeout? Visit marinmagazine.com/ food-drink

CHEERS TO OUR LOCAL RESTAURANTS FOR STAYING OPEN AND PIVOTING TO TAKE-OUT AND DELIVERY. MANY HAVE NOW OPENED FOR PATIO DINING AS WELL. CALL TO MAKE RESERVATIONS ON A BUSY NIGHT AND ENJOY THE RESTAURANT BOUNTY OF THIS AMAZING COUNTY.

CORTE MADERA

Benissimo Italian COVID-19 UPDATE: Takeout and to go menu available daily 4-10 p.m. “Benissimo” means “really, really good” in Italian. Aside from the daily 4 to 6:30 p.m. happy hour, the menu offers a large selection of pizza, pasta and large plates, like cioppino, fresh fishes of the day, T-bone steaks and the signature Benissimo Burger or portobello burger. 18 Tamalpais Drive, 415.927.2316

Blue Barn Gourmet American COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for takeout daily, 11:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Delivery via Postmates. The menu includes customizable salads, toasted sandwiches, soups and more, prepared with locally harvested produce and proteins. Try the Jersey cow milk gelato from Double 8 Dairy of West Marin. 335 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.927.1104

Burmatown Asian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for takeout, Tuesday–Saturday, 3-8 p.m. or delivery 3–7 p.m. The small home-style Asian fusion restaurant offers fresh, light meals like tea leaf salad and basil shrimp stir-fry, as well as curries, coconut rice and chili-garlic green beans. Extra heat optional. Prepare for a short wait if dining in,

or order for takeout. 60 Corte Madera Ave, 415.945.9096

Cafe Verde Californian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for takeout and delivery daily, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. This revamped cafe offers wraps, paninis, salads, tea and more nearly all day long. Enjoy any of these items inside or out on the patio and be sure to inquire about the German and Belgian beer samplers. 502 Tamalpais Drive, 415.927.1060

Il Fornaio Italian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for outdoor dining and takeout daily, 5-9 p.m. Delivery available daily, 4-9 p.m. Aside from pizzas and pastas, this upscale-Italian fran chise serves a variety of salads and carb-free entrées. 223 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.927.4400

La Maison De La Reine Vietnamese COVID19 UPDATE: Open for takeout daily, 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Dine on family-style Vietnamese fare in the Town Center. The crunchy cabbage chicken salad with peanuts, fresh spring rolls and pho options are popular picks. 346 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.927.0288

Marin Joe's Italian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for takeout daily, 4–8 p.m. Delivery via Dine-In Marin. A Marin

mainstay for over 50 years, with a menu of soups, salads, seafood, mesquite-grilled or sautéed meats and a plethora of pasta options. 1585 Casa Buena Drive, 415.924.2081

Pacific Catch Seafood COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for outdoor dining, takeout, and delivery, Sunday–Thursday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday–Saturday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. The Pacific Rim–inspired restaurant has a familyfriendly atmosphere. The menu, showcasing freshly caught seafood, includes tacos, poke, ceviche, sandwiches, salads, rice bowls, seasonal cocktails, and daily specials. 133 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.927.3474

Pig In A Pickle American COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining, takeout, and curbside service daily, 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Delivery via Dine-In Marin (415.927-9007). Fresh and locally sourced brisket, pork, ribs, and chicken get star billing at this Town Center eatery. Sauces are crafted to represent various American bar becue regions, including Memphis and South Carolina. House-made pickles, buns, and sausages will keep you coming back. 341 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.891.3265

Veggie Grill Vegan/ Vegetarian COVID-19 UPDATE: Takeout daily, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Delivery via DoorDash. Veggie Grill is a fast-casual restaurant chain that celebrates the veggie by offering a variety of hot sandwiches and burgers, entree salads, bowls, home-style plates, shareable sides, organic teas and housemade desserts prepared only with vegetables, fruits, grains, and nuts. 147 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.945.8954

World Wrapps Californian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for takeout daily, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Delivery via GrubHub. Owners Keith Cox and Matt Blair have revamped this “fast food” joint to feature healthy and flavorful items like a Hawaiian poke wrap and a tahini tofu summer roll that’s vegan-friendly. Exotic housemade beverages include boba tea, mango lassi, and Vietnamese iced coffee. 208 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.927.3663

FAIRFAX

Fradelizio's Italian COVID-19 UPDATE: Takeout and contactless curbside available Wednesday–Monday, 3-8 p.m. Fradelizio’s blends Northern Italian with California-inspired healthy fare, featuring natural beef and

free-range chicken dishes. 35 Broadway Blvd, 415.459.1618

The Hummingbird American COVID-19 UPDATE: Takeout avail able daily, 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Delivery via Grubhub, Uber Eats, or Seamless, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. This New Orleans–style restaurant serves up creole staples like fried chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, po’boys, gumbo, and beignets. Opt for the spicy syrup or home made hot sauce to get that Cajun kick. Cash only. 57 Broadway Blvd, 415.457.9866

Iron Springs Pub & Brewery American COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for takeout, Thursday, 4-9 p.m, Friday–Sunday, 12-9 p.m, Monday, 4-9 p.m. Pair your pick from the extensive beer list with an ale-braised barbecue pork sandwich, shrimp tacos or the houseground-chicken bacon cheeseburger. 765 Center Blvd, 415.485.1005

The Lodge American COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining and takeout, Tuesday–Sunday, 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Delivery via Uber Eats and DoorDash. Beer, cider and wine to go in Growlers and Cans. The Lodge features all-American eats like a breakfast burrito stuffed with eggs, spinach and salsa; share plates like a sausage board served

with Lodge tots and slaw; and pour-over coffee and draft beer for riders and hikers alike. 1573 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.456.8084

Mas Masa Mexican COVID-19 UPDATE: Takeout only, Wednesday–Friday, 4:30-7:30 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday, 12-7:30 p.m. Chef and owner Patrick Sheehy focuses on the ancient technique of corn nixtamalization, using organic, non-GMO blue corn to make its handmade tortillas. The beer and wine lists highlight local California microbreweries and wineries. 31 Bolinas Rd, 415.529.5444

Sorella Caffe Italian COVID-19 UPDATE: Takeout available, Tuesday–Sunday, 4:30-8 p.m. Run by sisters Sonia and Soyara, Sorella serves fresh Italian with a northern influence. Customer favorites include the cioppino, butternut squash ravioli, and Pollo alla Sorella. Another highlight is the giant wheel of Grana Padano cheese. 107 Bolinas Rd, 415.258.4520

Split Rock Tap & Wheel American COVID-19 UPDATE: Café and Taproom open for out door dining and takeout, Monday–Friday, 4-8 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday, 12-8 p.m. Menu items include pizzas, sand wiches, and snacks like

citrus-marinated olives or house-made pickles. Beers on tap are almost all exclusively local favorites. 2020 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415. 721.7644

Way Station American COVID-19 UPDATE: Outdoor dining, takeout and delivery available, Tuesday–Friday, 4-9 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday, 12-9 p.m. Delivery in Fairfax and San Anselmo residents via TOWN

FLYR program; or GrubHub, DoorDash, Uber Eats. The ‘cue gets all the love but salads, flatbread pizzas, and a wide selection of tapped and bottled beers plus wines round out the menu. Kid-friendly and dog-friendly with outdoor seating. 2001 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.300.3099

LARKSPUR

Backstage Californian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio seating (reservations suggested, please call or use Open Table) and takeout, Tuesdays–Thursdays, 4-9 p.m.; Fridays–Saturdays, 4-9:30 p.m.; Sundays, 4-7:30 p.m. Nestled in downtown,Backstage is a comfortable, sociable setting for wine tasting and light appetizers. Flights of exclusive picks from small-scale California vineyards bring wine country closer to Marin. Happy hour Tuesday through Friday 4 to 6 p.m. 295 Magnolia Ave, 415.898.6778

DJ's Chinese Cuisine Chinese COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for takeout only, lunch Tuesday–Friday, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; dinner Tuesday–Sunday, 4:309:30 p.m. A great place to satisfy a craving for

wonton soup before a show at the Lark Theater; the outdoor patio is a scene-stealer in itself. 435 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.0717

Farmshop American COVID-19 UPDATE: Patio dining daily, 5:30-9 p.m. Takeout and curbside pickup available daily, 4-9 p.m. Located in the Marin Country Mart since 2013, Farmshop Marin has quickly become a top spot here in the county and earns raves for its avocado hummus. Indoor and outdoor seating available. 2233 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.755.6700

Hog Island Oyster Co. Seafood COVID-19

UPDATE: Open for patio dining and takeout Wednesday–Sunday, 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Delivery available with DoorDash and Caviar. The full-service Marin Country Mart location features a full bar with seasonal cocktails, beer and wine and the same bay-to-bar philosophy as the Tomales Bay original. Oysters, raw and grilled are a must, then check the day’s menu to see what was most recently pulled from Marin’s waters before decid ing what to eat. 2401 Larkspur Landing Circle, 628.253.5905

Marin Brewing Co American COVID-19

UPDATE: Open for patio dining, takeout beer and food, Sunday–Thursday, 12-7 p.m.; Friday–Saturday, 12-9 p.m. Grab a cold beer made on-site and pair it with fish ’n’ chips — in this case, fresh cod dipped in Mt. Tam pale ale batter, served with steak fries and homemade tartar sauce — or anything from the

all-American menu. 1809 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.461.4677

Perry's American COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining (reservations strongly recommend, please call to reserve) and takeout, Monday–Thursday, 3-9 p.m.; Friday–Sunday, Bruch 12-3 p.m.; Dinner, 3-9 p.m. Delivery via Caviar. Perry's on Magnolia has the quintessentially American fare, bustling bar and warm personality the San Francisco original has always been famous for. Along with three separate dining rooms in a historic building, there’s outdoor dining on the patio and in the redwood grove. Lunch and dinner daily, brunch on weekends and holidays; valet parking in the evenings. 234 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.1877

Pizzeria Picco Pizza COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining and takeout, MondayThursday, 5-8 p.m.; Friday–Sunday, 12-8 p.m. Delivery via Dine-In Marin. This upscale parlor offers Californiainfluenced Neapolitan pizzas cooked in a wood-burning pizza oven. Fresh mozzarella is pulled in-house and the menu also features organic salads, a daily soup, and Straus Dairy soft-serve ice cream. 316 Magnolia Ave, 415.945.8900

Posie American COVID19 UPDATE: Open for takeout only, ThursdaySunday, 1-9 p.m. This hip artisan ice cream shop opened by Kyle Caporicci, former pastry chef of Michelin-starred Commis, is making a name for itself with seasonal flavors, home made gluten-free cones,

and vegan ice cream. For lunch, you’ll find meticulously prepared open-faced tartines and Instagram-ready pastries. Menu changes weekly. 250B Magnolia Ave, 415.891.8395

Roma SF Italian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining, takeout, and contactless curbside (please call for reservations or to order), daily, 12-9 p.m. Delivery via Caviar, Uber Eats, and DoorDash. Oval-shaped pizza, fried rice balls, burrata with artichoke hearts, and pasta with fresh pear and Gorgonzola are just a few of the dishes that reflect the regional Roman ingre dients and style of this sister restaurant to the San Francisco original.

In Marin, look for fresh seafood pastas on the day’s specials menu, too. 286 Magnolia Ave, 415.896.4002

Rustic Bakery Californian COVID-19

UPDATE: Open daily, 7 a.m.-2 p.m. for counter orders to-go or curbside delivery via phone or ChowNow. Delivery via Caviar and DoorDash. Catering via ezCater. The homegrown bakery is known and loved the world over: Pope Francis famously requested Rustic Bakery flatbread and crostini when he visited the U.S. in 2015.

Organic bread, crois sants and pastries baked fresh each morning and salads, sandwiches, and soups for lunch make Rustic a local staple. 2017 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.461.9900

MILL VALLEY

Buckeye Roadhouse American COVID-19

UPDATE: Open for patio dining, takeout, and

contactless curbside, Monday–Thursday, 4-8 p.m; Friday–Sunday, 12-8 p.m. Delivery via Dine-In Marin. Coffee Cart open Monday–Friday 6-10 a.m. Oysters Bingo, baby back ribs, and chili-lime “brick” chicken are a few of the satisfying comfort-food menu items that have made this classic roadhouse a favorite since the ’30s. 15 Shoreline Highway, 415.331.2600

Bungalow 44 American COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for outdoor dining, takeout and curbside pick-up daily, 5-8 p.m. Reservations recom mended. One of Mill Valley’s neighborhood hot spots, featuring contemporary California comfort food, signature cocktails, fine wine, and one-dollar oysters from 5 to 6 p.m. every day. 44 E Blithedale Ave, 415.381.2500

Cafe Del Soul

Californian COVID-19 UPDATE: Takeout avail able, Monday–Saturday, 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m; Sunday, 10 a.m-7 p.m. Healthy options become addictive at this eatery that now has locations in both Tam Valley and San Rafael. Once you stop in for the deliciously fresh quinoa wrap, you’ll want to return to try the chipotle rice bowl. A casual lunch spot and great for takeout, Cafe del Soul also serves smoothies and pressed juices. 247 Shoreline Highway, 415.388.1852

Floodwater Californian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining and takeout daily, 12-8 p.m. Delivery via DoorDash. Sip “The Obligatory Vodka Drink” at the room-length bar while noshing on scal lop crudo or dive into

a house-made veggie burger in the TV-free front room. Up the coziness factor in the back room as you tuck into a margherita pizza cooked in the wood-fired oven at this spacious Tam Valley tavern. 152 Shoreline Hwy, 415.843.4545

Gravity Tavern American COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining, takeout, and curbside pickup daily, 12-8 p.m. Delivery via Uber Eats, Postmates and DoorDash. Updated with ingredients to reflect modern tastes, American classics like grilled chicken Waldorf salad with pickled grapes, lobster roll with toasted challah and veggie slaw, and a land and sea pasta with housemade egg pasta, pork belly and crab. 38 Miller Ave, 415.888.2108

Grilly’s Mexican COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining and takeout daily, 9 a.m-8 p.m. If you’re looking for a quick, fresh meal, Grilly’s is an easy and delicious stop. Pick up a couple burritos and the much-loved chicken taco salad and you have a lunch or dinner to please the whole family. 493 Miller Ave, 415.381.3278

Hook Fish Co Seafood COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining and takeout daily, 4-8 p.m. Adjacent to Mill Valley’s Proof Lab has 13 taps, but the draw at this counter-service joint is the seafood. The transparent supply chain means you can enjoy the poke, fish and chips or fish tacos secure in the knowledge of exactly where and on what boat your meal came from. 254 Shoreline Highway, 415.569.4984

India Palace Indian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for takeout daily, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 4:30-9 p.m. Known as “that great restaurant in the Travelodge,” India Palace is a favorite with the take out crowd; eating on-site is also a treat. 707 Redwood Highway, 415.388.3350

Joe’s Taco Lounge Mexican COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for takeout, Monday–Friday, 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday, 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Cup of Joe's coffee cart, MondaySaturday, 7 a.m.-12. Joe’s serves up fish tacos, burritos and enchiladas as well as more unusual items like Mexican pizza, tofu tostada, and crab tostadas. A colorful interior and quick service make this a fun, easy stop. 3 82 Miller Ave, 415.383.8164

Kitchen Sunnyside American COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for outdoor dining and takeout daily, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Delivery via Caviar, Uber Eats, or GrubHub. This brunch stop brings some gourmet to your morning with options like Dungeness crab hash, cornflake French toast, eggs Florentine and bottomless mimosas. Lunch choices like paninis and burgers are also available. 31 Sunnyside Ave, 415.326.5159

Piatti Ristorante and Bar Italian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for takeout daily, 12-8 p.m. Delivery via DoorDash and Caviar. The staff prides itself on capturing the warm and welcoming atmosphere of a traditional Italian trattoria. Peruse the impressive selec tion of Italian wines to accompany your

rustic seasonal meal. 625 Redwood Highway, 415.380.2525

Piazza D’Angelo Italian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining (walk-in only) and takeout (including items from their new Alimentari) daily, 4-8 p.m. Delivery via DoorDash, Dine-In Marin and Uber Eats. Family owned for over 35 years, Piazza D’Angelo evokes a traditional trattoria din ing experience. Enjoy a variety of house-made pastas, meat and seafood dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and gluten-free offerings with organic and locally sourced ingredients. 22 Miller Ave, 415.388.2000

Prabh Indian Kitchen Indian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining and takeout, Monday–Saturday, 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday, 11:30 a.m.9:30 p.m. Delivery via Uber Eats, DoorDash, Caviar, Grubhub. This restaurant empha sizes healthy, organic, sustainable eating in choices like chicken pakora, vegetable biry ani, and basil garlic naan foods, with options for the vegan and glutenfree. At lunch, the thali menu lets you try several Indian dishes at once. 24 Sunnyside Ave, 415.384.8241

Robata Grill and Sushi Japanese COVID-19 UPDATE: Takeout daily, 4:30-8:30 p.m. Delivery via Dine-In Marin and Grub Hub. Personal delivery for high-risk and the elderly on a case-bycase basis. Please call. 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 entree from the menu. 591 Redwood Highway, 415.381.8400

Sol Food Puerto Rican COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for takeout daily, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Delivery via Caviar. This Marin favorite has opened in Mill Valley, still serving 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

Tamalpie Italian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining and takeout with curbside service upon request, Monday–Friday, 4 to 9 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday, 12-9 p.m. Delivery via Uber Eats, DoorDash and Dine-In Marin. The food is Italian home cooking with the daily modern inspira tion of locally sourced seasonal ingredients found in the salads, house-made pastas, and crispy Neapolitan-style pizza, with a selection of beer and wine to match. 477 Miller Ave, 415.388.7437

Thep Lela Thai COVID19 UPDATE: Open for takeout daily, 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Delivery on a case by case basis. Please call to inquire. This jewel is tucked away in the back of Strawberry Village. Diners come for the tasty kee mao noodles, pad thai, fresh rolls, and extensive bar menu. It’s also a great place for lunch. 615 Strawberry Village, 415.383.3444

Vasco Italian COVID19 UPDATE: Open for takeout daily, 5-8 p.m. Whether at a table, the bar or the back counter,

you can expect an intimate dining experi ence in this one-room trattoria. Try one of the pasta dishes or thincrust wood-fired pizzas. 106 Throckmorton Ave, 415.381-3343

Watershed Californian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining and takeout daily, 12–8 p.m. The Stemple Creek Ranch burger and fresh pastas are matched with a bevy of simply prepared, easy to share dishes (like spicy rock cod lettuce cups or lamb riblets) that reflect chef Kyle Swain’s careful sourcing and focus on local flavor. 129 Miller Ave, 415.888.2406

NOVATO

Boca Pizzeria Italian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for outdoor din ing and takeout, daily 12-9 p.m. Delivery via DoorDash. Enjoy authentic pizza prepared with fresh mozzarella made in house and tomatoes imported from Italy, or go for a grilled rosemary chicken sand wich or the braised beef short rib pappardelle. Weekly specials include half off all wines by the bottle on Wednesdays and half off draft beers on Thursdays. 454 Ignacio Blvd, Novato, 415.883.2302

Boca Tavern American COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining and takeout daily, 12-9 p.m. Delivery via GrubHub. Favorites at this classic restaurant include bigeye tuna poke, Dungeness crab cakes, mac ’n’ cheese croquettes, and duck-fat fries. From the woodburning grill, there’s fresh fish, shrimp, and dry-aged ribeye. On Tuesdays, wine is half

off. 40 Ignacio Blvd, Novato, 415.883.0901

Chianti Cucina Italian COVID-19 UPDATE: Takeout available, Sunday–Thursday, 4:30-7:30 p.m. and Friday–Saturday, 4:30-8 p.m. Order via phone or Drive-Thru app. This cozy eatery offers an array of Italian and American dishes, including a long list of pastas; try the housemade ravioli cooked up by chef Edgar DeLon. 7416 Redwood Highway, Novato, 415.878.0314

Finnegan's American COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining, takeout, and contactless curbside, Wednesday–Sunday, 11:30 a.m.- 5 p.m. Please call to order. Delivery via DoorDash. The dark wood paneled booths and high backs on bar stools mean it is easy to linger over Irish-inspired meals like corned beef and cabbage or nachos made with waffle fries instead of corn chips. 877 Grant Ave, Novato, 415.899.1516

Hopmonk Tavern American COVID-19

UPDATE: Open for patio dining, takeout and delivery, Sunday–Thursday, 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday, 11:30 a.m.10 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. The beer garden-style outdoor patio and live music keep fans coming back to this Novato brewhouse. 224 Vintage Way, Novato, 415.892.6200

Marvin’s Restaurant American COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for takeout and delivery, daily 6 a.m.-2 p.m. This place, known for “Best Breakfast in Novato,” also serves up generous portions for lunch. The corned beef hash,

Benedicts, and superb service draw a consistent crowd year-round. 1112 Grant Ave, Novato, 415.892.4482

Rustic Bakery Californian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open daily, 7 a.m.-2 p.m. for counter orders to-go or curbside delivery via phone or ChowNow. Delivery via Caviar and DoorDash. Catering via ezCater. Organic pastries, breads, salads, and sandwiches are on the menu here, including daily sea sonal specials. Try the Marin Melt — Cowgirl Creamery’s Mt. Tam and Point Reyes Toma cheeses grilled on honey whole wheat, served with dressed baby greens and crisp apple slices. 1407 Grant Ave, Novato, 415.878.4952

SAN ANSELMO

Baan Thai Cuisine Thai COVID-19 updates: Open for take out and curbside pickup, Tuesday–Saturday, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5-10 p.m.; Sunday 12:30-9 p.m. Please call to order. Known for its mango sticky rice, this restaurant is committed to serving fresh, local and seasonal food. Warm up with the tom kha soup or stave off the heat with a lychee iced tea. 726 San Anselmo Ave, 415.457.9470

Creekside Pizza & Tap Room American COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for take out and curbside daily, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Delivery via DoorDash, Uber Eats and GrubHub. Under the direction of chef Janet Abrahamson, Creekside serves American-style artisan pizza (vegan and gluten-free options available) and organic salads, along with an

extensive selection of craft beer on tap and Northern California wines. 638 San Anselmo Ave, 415.785.4450

Cucina sa Italian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining and take out daily, 4-8 p.m. Delivery 4:30-8 p.m. Homemade pastas, seasonal salads, and wood-fired pizzas strike a balance between southern Italy and northern California at Cucina. Proprietor Donna Seymour recently revamped the cozy space on San Anselmo Ave, adding a 30 seat bar and outdoor seating on the bridge. Plans are in the works for the upstairs mezzanine to become a lounge. 510 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.2942

The Hub American COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining and take out daily, 12-2:30 p.m. and 3:30-8 p.m. Delivery via GrubHub, DoorDash and Uber Eats. The delicious burgers and fries, like the #1 Hub Burger with white cheddar and special sauce, and seasonal focus at the former Farm Burger in the Red Hill Shopping Center haven’t changed, but the addition of an array of big salads like Thai spinach and keto cobb necessitated a rebranding. The chicken burger with srirachachile mayo is a new fave. Red Hill Shopping Center, 415.785.4802

Insalata’s Mediterranean COVID19 UPDATE: Take out available daily, 11 a.m.6:30 p.m. (order by 4 p.m.). Award-winning chef Heidi Krahling’s restaurant features delicious, soulful Mediterranean fare, as

well as food-to-go at a counter inside. 120 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.457.7700

Madcap Californian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for take out and curbside pickup for dinner, Tuesday–Saturday for pick-up 5–7 p.m. Chef Ron Siegel opened his first solo venture in a contemporary art-filled space with an urban edge. The vegetable-centric menu incorporates seafood and local ingredients, fusing California and Japanese cuisines in colorful dishes that are bold, balanced and bright. 198 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.453.9898

M.H. Bread and Butter Californian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining and take out, Thursday–Monday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. A one-stop shop for everything from coffee and pastries to artisan bread, with a seasonal brunch menu. High-quality ingredi ents and a comfortable atmosphere make MH worth checking out. 101 San Anselmo Ave, 415.755.4575

Pizzalina Italian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining, take out, curbside, and delivery daily, 12-8 p.m. Along with handmade pizzas baked in a wood oven, you’ll find classic shrimp risotto and a caprese salad with mozzarella di bufala. Menus change daily according to seasonal markets but always include salads, antipastos, house-made pasta, and main dishes. Outdoor dining avail able. 914 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.256.9780

Sushi 69 Japanese COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for take out, Monday–Saturday, 3-8 p.m. Opened in 2001 in San Anselmo, Sushi 69 has been a favorite for locals looking to get their fill of no-frills sushi. The owner hails from Japan and has created an extensive menu featuring traditional tempura and the popular Hiro’s roll (spicy tuna with avocado, salmon and ponzu sauce wrapped in sushi rice). 69 Center Blvd, 415.459.6969

Tony Tutto's Pizza COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining and take out, Wednesday–Saturday, 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sunday, 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m. After nine years in Mill Valley, owner Greg DiGiovine relocated to Ross, bringing his familiar pies and kid- and dog-friendly vibe to downtown. The vegan pies are still here and a gluten-free crust is now available. 16 Ross Common, Ross, 415.383.8646

Valenti & Co. Italian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for courtyard dining, take out and curbside pickup, Tuesday—Sunday, from 5 p.m.; pickup 5-7 p.m. This bright and cozy space is the ideal environment for authentic Italian dishes made with local ingredients. A seat at the chef’s table gives a prime view of the open kitchen. 337 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.7800

SAN RAFAEL

Amici’s East Coast Pizzeria Californian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for delivery, pickup, and contactless curbside daily, 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. A wide array

of thin-crust pizzas, freshly made pastas, and salads are the ticket here, along with flameroasted lemon chicken wings, for dine-in, takeout, and delivery. Gluten-free pizza crust is available. 1242 Fourth St, 415.455.9777

Boiadeirus Steak Brazilian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for takeout daily, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. and delivery through DoorDash or Uber Eats. The picanha is the signature cut at this Brazilian-style steak house where gauchos carrying grilled meats on long swords cruise the room, offering portions of up to 10 meats. A huge salad bar offers everything from feijoada and potato salad to yucca and deviled eggs. 925 Fourth St, 628.253.5854

Caribbean Spices Caribbean COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for takeout, TuesdaySunday, 4-10 p.m. Jerk chicken with just the right amount of heat is a menu highlight at this brick-and-mortar San Rafael extension of chefowner Frantz Felix’s food truck of the same name. Go for the Caribbean sangria and Haitian specialties like griot or goat curry and African American–inspired ver sions of creole snapper and seafood gumbo. 819 Fourth St, 415.299.2680

Flatiron American COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for takeout, Thursday–Saturday, 4-8 p.m. Please call to order. Delivery via Grub Hub. The remodeled Flatiron is where refined American bar food lives happily in its ideal environment — with a bevy of craft beers. This polished sports bar serves

noshes like chili lime cauliflower, classic sand wiches, and truffle and waffle fries in a space that also features classic arcade games. 724 B St, 415.453.4318

Il Davide Italian COVID19 UPDATE: Open for curbside pick-up and delivery, Tuesday–Saturday, 3-7:30 p.m. The large selection of innovative and classic Tuscan dishes and house-made pasta has kept locals coming back for years. Ingredients are organic and locally sourced where possible, and there’s a vast selection of both Italian and California wines by the glass. 901 A St, 415. 454.8080

La Toscana Ristorante & Bar Italian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for outdoor dining and takeout, Tuesday–Saturday, 12-8 p.m. Family owned and operated since 1985, La Toscana has completed an extensive interior and exterior renovation, transforming an already popular San Rafael gathering spot into a place for any occa sion. The menu features classics like gnocchi and carbonara and an ample selection of wine. 3751 Redwood Highway, 415.492.9100

LaVier Cusine Mexican COVID-19 UPDATE: Open daily, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Please call for curbside pickup. Free-range meat and fresh seafood are the focus at this all-organic Latin fusion eatery run by Gabriela and her husband Guillermo, who hails from Yucatán. Try the popular puffy fish tacos with slaw and black beans. Brunch is served on weekends until 2 p.m. 1025 C St, 415.295.7990

Le Chalet Basque French COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining, takeout, and delivery, Wednesday–Sunday, 4-8:30 p.m. Order by phone, through Dine-In Marin, or with DoorDash. This familystyle place features dishes inspired by the Basque regions of France and Spain, like frog legs in a garlic butter and lemon sauce, a veal calf liver sauté and sweetbreads with port wine sauce and mushrooms. 405 North San Pedro Road, 415.479.1070

Le Comptoir French COVID-19 UPDATE: Takeout meals and Epicerie Shop are open daily, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Curbside pickup available. The owners of San Francisco’s Gamine have opened their second restaurant, this time in the heart of San Rafael. The bistro serves up traditional French favorites like beef cheeks bourguignon and onion soup gratinée in a chic and cozy setting. 1301 Fourth St, 415.454.5454

Los Moles Mexican COVID-19 UPDATE:

Open for takeout and delivery daily, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Nestled centrally on Lincoln Avenue, Los Moles offers traditional pueblo Mexican cuisine, with — you guessed it — a variety of different moles to enhance your dish. Offering brunch, lunch, dinner and party options, Los Moles’ menu includes enmoladas, tacos, pollo al horno, carne asada, flan and much more. 912 Lincoln Ave, 415.453.5850

Pho Viet Vietnamese COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for takeout only, Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. and 4:30-9

p.m.; Saturday–Sunday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Of course you come for the namesake bowl of hearty soup with clear broth, beef, noodles and vegetables at this Best of the County winner. 555 E. Francisco Blvd, Ste. 22, 415.455.8063

RangeCafe American COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining (reservations recom mended–please call to reserve a table), takeout and delivery daily, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Call or order online. The cuisine is local, seasonal, made with naturally raised ingredients and served in a casual, comfortable and refined setting, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the grand Peacock Gap lawns. 333 Biscayne Drive, 415.454.6450

Sol Food Puerto Rican COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for takeout daily, 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Fast becoming a Marin legend, Sol Food whips up traditional Puerto Rican dishes just like the ones owner Sol Hernandez grew up eating. Favorites include the bistec sand wich, mofongo and other fried plantain dishes, but anything tastes good with a dash of the signature hot sauce, also for sale by the bottle (as is the lemon-garlic salad dressing). 901 Lincoln Ave, 415.451.4765

Sushi to Dai For Japanese COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for takeout, Monday–Saturday, 12-3 p.m. and 4:30-8 p.m. Snagging a seat in this popular Fourth Street spot can be a challenge, but patience

is rewarded with fresh sashimi and unique sushi rolls. 816 Fourth St, 415.721.0392

Vin Antico American COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for takeout and curbside pickup, Tuesday–Saturday, 4:30-8 pm. Vin Antico, “where passion meets the plate,” serves seasonal market-inspired cuisine like stoneoven-baked flatbreads, handmade pastas and organic salads, all innovatively prepared. 881 Fourth St, 415.721.0600

VN Noodle & Grill Vietnamese COVID19 UPDATE: Open for takeout daily, 11:30 a.m.6:30 p.m. Order online.

Located in Montecito Plaza, the restaurant has a robust menu of standard Vietnamese

fare, including a wide selection of rice plates, pho, and of course, iced coffee. 421 Third St, 415.306.4299

Whipper Snapper Restaurant Caribbean COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for takeout or contactless curbside, Tuesday–Sunday, 4:30-8 p.m. Owner/chef Bill Higgins serves tapas, sangria and reason ably priced organic dishes. The CaliforniaCaribbean lunch and dinner cuisine blends local farm-fresh ingredi ents with Latin flavors. Be sure to try the popular fish tacos, Cuban “cigars” and chocolate bread pudding. 1613 Fourth St, 415.256.1818

SAUSALITO

Angelino Restaurant Italian COVID-19 UPDATE: Patio dining and takeout available Tuesday–Sunday, 5-9 p.m, orders taken via phone. Angelino Pastry Bar (with classic croissants and focaccia and a raspberry-polenta Pop Tart), is open for pick-up at 8 a.m, Tuesday–Sunday. Authentic Italian eatery with handmade pastas and seasonal antipasti, showcasing cuisine of the Campania region for more than 20 years. 621 Bridgeway, 415.331.5225

Arawan Thai Thai COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for takeout, Monday–Friday, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 4:30-9 p.m.;

Saturday–Sunday, 1-9 p.m. Delivery via Dine-in Marin. This Sausalito favorite serves up popular dishes like prawn arawan with yellow curry as well as $10 lunch specials. 47 Caledonia St, 415.729.9395

Aurora Ristorante & Pizzeria Italian COVID19 UPDATE: Open for takeout or delivery daily, 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Novato’s Aurora has a counterpart in southern Marin. Traditional Italian food, a full bar, and friendly service make it a great option for families, groups, dates and sports fans, who can keep upto-date on the game via flat-screen TV. 300 Valley St, 415.339.8930

Avatar’s Indian COVID19 UPDATE: Open for patio, takeout and delivery, Monday–Saturday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and 5-9:30 p.m. If you’re on the hunt for innovative Indian fare, head to Avatar’s. Sip masala chai sweetened with brown sugar in this casual one-room restaurant, ideal for a quick lunch or dinner. 2656 Bridgeway, 415.332.8083

Copita Mexican COVID19 UPDATE: Outdoor dining and takeout available Monday–Friday, 12-9 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday, 12- 10 p.m. Delivery via DoorDash or call for pick-up.

Co-owner Joanne Weir, along with chef Daniel Tellez, presents fresh Mexican fare in the heart of downtown Sausalito. The everchanging menu is 100 percent gluten-free, and the in-house tequila bar serves over 100 varieties and fantastic cocktails. 739 Bridgeway, 415.331.7400

Davey Jones Deli American COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for takeout daily, 9:15 a.m.-4:20

p.m.; grab-n-go case at the Bait Shop open, 7 a.m.–12 midnight. Stationed in the New Bait Shop Market, Davey Jones Deli offers houseroasted sandwich meats, healthy condiments and local, organic vegetables; the deli serves sandwiches, veggiewiches, wraps and salads with vegetarian, vegan and meat-lover options. Gate 6 Road, 415.331.2282

Fish Seafood COVID-19

UPDATE: Outdoor din ing daily, 11:30 a.m.–8 p.m. for groups of 6 or less. Fish market is open; to-go orders via phone or website, delivery via Caviar. The ultimate place for freshly caught fare. Order the fish tacos, ceviche and a bottle of wine and take in the bay views on the open-air deck. Though cash is still king, credit cards are now accepted (woot!). 350 Harbor Drive, 415.331.3474

Kitti’s Place Thai COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for takeout, Monday—Friday, 12-6 p.m. This home-style family restaurant has

PROMOTION

been in Sausalito 20 years and features favorites like lettuce cups, soft spring rolls and weekly specials. 3001 Bridgeway, 415.331.0390

Le Garage French COVID-19 UPDATE: Outdoor dining avail able with a reservation Tuesday–Friday, 11:30 a.m.–8 p.m.; Saturday brunch 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.; dinner 5–8 p.m. Takeout available via contactless pickup (order 2 days in advance) or delivery via Uber Eats. Escape the tourist crush for an indulgent meal right on the water. 85 Liberty Ship Way, 415.332.5625

Poggio Italian COVID19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining, reserva tions recommended, Monday–Thursday, 6:30-11 a.m. and 4-8 p.m.; Friday–Sunday, 6:30-11:30 a.m. and 2-8 p.m. Call for takeout or curbside pick up. Delivery via GrubHub. Executive chef Benjamin Balesteri creates Northern Italian fare using fresh and local ingredients. 777 Bridgeway, 415.332.7771

Saylor’s Restaurant and Bar Mexican COVID19 UPDATE: Agave Terrace open for al fresco dining, Monday–Saturday, 4-8 p.m. Takeout available with same hours or delivery through Dine-In Marin, DoorDash, and Uber Eats. Chef/owner Sean Saylor uses fresh local ingredients and seafood to create a distinctively Cabo combination of California and Mexican cuisine. 2009 Bridgeway, 415.332.1512

Taste of the Himalayas Himalayan COVID19 UPDATE: Takeout available, Wednesday–Mondays 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5-9:30 p.m. Popular for lunch and dinner, serving authentic food from a faraway region. 2633 Bridgeway, 415.331.133 5

TIBURON

in the Cove Shopping Center, this familyowned neighborhood spot is known for its pasta and friendly ser vice. Favorites, like the cheesy garlic bread and pesto, keep customers coming back. 1 Blackfield Drive, 415.388.9100

Salt & Pepper American COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for patio dining and takeout daily, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. With its hardwood floors and blue-check ered tablecloths, the sun-filled, one-room restaurant is an area favorite. Scallops, ribeye steak, a beef burger and traditional crab cakes with jalapeño dipping sauce are some of the popular choices. 38 Main St, 415.435.3594

Order online for quick pickup or delivery. 15 Main St, 415.435.3440

WEST MARIN

Cucina is now open for dinner on our Bridge! Serving dinner seven nights a week al fresco. Also come and join us Fridays through Sundays for “On the Avenue”, when San Anselmo Avenue becomes a car-free zone! We will have tables on the Avenue on these nights to accommodate more diners. Reservations through our website.

CUCINA SA 510 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, CA 415.454.2942 cucina-sa.com

Caffe Acri Italian COVID-19 UPDATE: Open daily, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. with coffee, espresso, beers, scones, and bakery items; along with baking supplies, yeast, flour, oats, basmati rice, eggs, dairy, bread, english muffins, coffee beans, cleaning supplies, toilet paper, bleach and more. Order all items (food and grocery) online at CaffeAcri. com, allow 30 minutes for pick-up. The well-lit corner cafe in Tiburon is a go-to for bikers, city commuters, and locals. Diners will find Italian roast espresso drinks, freshly baked pastries, and eggs for breakfast and a selection of soups, salads and paninis for lunch. 1 Main St, 415.435.8515

Milano Italian COVID19 UPDATE: Takeout available daily, 11:45 a.m.-11 p.m. Located

Sam’s Anchor Cafe American COVID-19 UPDATE: Open for dining on the deck, takeout and delivery, Monday–Friday, 12-8 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Reopened after an extensive remodel, Sam's boat house feel and boat tie-ups are intact and spiffy white umbrellas and deck chairs line the waterfront patio. Allday cocktails remain a fixture as does the signature cioppino, while offerings like crab toast, a roaming oyster cart, and a raw bar reflect the menu's enduring sea food focus. 27 Main St, 415.435.4527

Waypoint Pizza Pizza COVID-19 UPDATE: Takeout and delivery available, Sunday–Thursday, 12-8:30 p.m.; Friday–Saturday, 12-9 p.m. Family-friendly, with cooked-to-order gour met pies, slices, fresh salads and, for sports fans, a large-screen TV.

Nick’s Cove American COVID-19 UPDATE: Outdoor dining and takeout available daily, 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Flower bouquets available for Saturday pickup at William Tell House via the Tomales Farmers' Market. This escape along Tomales Bay is famous for barbecued local oysters, Dungeness crab mac ’n’ cheese and cocktails incorporating homegrown ingredients. Large windows in the 120-seat restaurant pro vide picturesque views of Tomales Bay and Hog Island and a fireplace in the main dining room makes the most of fog-whipped and rainy days. 23240 Highway 1, Marshall, 415.663.1033

Saltwater Oyster Depot Seafood COVID 19 update: Summer prix fixe patio dining open by advance reservation only, Friday–Sunday, 5-7 p.m. Please call 415.299.3736 to reserve patio. Daily lunch and dinner menu available for takeout, 12– 6 p.m. Please call 415-6691244 to order. A seat at the room-length bar or on the patio at this snug spot on Tomales Bay’s west shore can be tough to snag on a busy summer weekend but oysters pulled straight from the bay moments before, served broiled and on the half shell, are worth the wait. Locallysourced ingredients get equal billing in dishes like halibut crudo and a lamb burger. 12781 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Inverness, 415.669.1244

VIRTUAL EVENTS

THRU AUG 31 Marin Shakes at Home Fun Shakespeare activities for ages 5-7 and 8-12, as well as resources for learning at home. marinshakespeare.org

THRU SEPT 13 Broadway Under the Stars A virtual com pilation of the best of the last eight seasons of Transcendence Theater’s Broadway

Under the Stars concerts with never before seen footage and featuring hundreds of artists, all from the comfort of your own home. (Fridays: 6:30 p.m. pre-show and 7:30 p.m. show; Saturday and Sundays: Matinee – 1 p.m. pre-show and 2 p.m. show Evening: 6:30 p.m. pre-show and 7:30 p.m. show). bestnightever.org

AUG 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23 I Hope You Dance Featuring spectacular dance numbers from

some of Broadway’s greatest musicals including Chicago, Cabaret, Anything Goes, & Singin’ in the Rain! Join us as we express love, strength, gratitude and power in a theatrical evening of awe-inspiring dance. bestnightever.org

ARTS & LECTURES

JUL 2 Beauty & the Beast: California Wildflowers and Climate Change Rob Badger and Nita Winter

will take you behind the scenes on their 27-year journey photographing wild flowers throughout California. (Zoom 7:30 p.m. PT). cnps-yerba buena.org/calendar/ speaker-series/

Book Passage (Live) Website allows audi ence members to ask a question beforehand. Conversations rather than readings.

AUG 8 Anne Lamott: On Writing A live threehour workshop with

renowned author Anne Lamott. “I’ll discuss how to get some work done every day, sticking with it, coming up with a god awfu l first draft, and sticking with it till you have something you can be proud to share.” (live stream 12-3 p.m. PT; $75 to register). bookpassage.com

with celebrated chore ographer Alonzo King, whose new dance is inspired by the beauty and tragedy unfold ing in the Arctic. Can art reach and activate people on climate in new and compelling ways? How can art convey the joy of nature and the grief of how humans are destroying it? (live stream 4 p.m. PT). commonwealthclub.org

AUG 29 Ursula Hegi Award-winning author and MFA professor discusses her latest novel The Patron Saint of Pregnant Girls — about three mothers, and set on the shores of the Nordsee — is testa ment to the ways in which women hold each other up in the most unexpected of circum stances. (live stream 4 p.m. PT; $75 to register). bookpassage.com

Commonwealth (Live) Must pre-register for these free events.

AUG 6 Climate Change Through the Artist’s Eyes with Alonzo King A conversation about art, beauty and humanity in the age of climate disruption

AUG 12 Making Change: Shaun King Journalist, civil rights activist, and co-founder of the Real Justice PAC, Shaun King stands out for his long list of public service — including becoming one of the most prominent voices in the Black Lives Matter movement. Learn how to navigate social justice and move ment building among the best and worst of political climates. (live stream 12:30-1:30 p.m. PT). commonwealthclub.org

AUG 19 How Ike Led A virtual conversation with Susan Eisenhower, who describes in How Ike Led the ways in which her grandfather, President Dwight Eisenhower, led America through a transformational time using strategic, principled leadership. (live stream 3:30-4:30 p.m. PT). commonwealthclub.org

AUG 20 God’s Shadow: Sultan Silem and His Ottoman Empire

ZOOM MORE) IN JULY EDITED BY SABRINA TUTON-FILSON

A virtual conversation between Alan Mikhail and Adam Hochschild about Mikhail’s new book, God’s Shadow Drawing on previ ously unexamined sources, Mikhail uses Selim’s life to upend prevailing shibboleths about Islamic history, radically reshaping our understanding of the history of the modern world. (live stream 3:304:30 p.m. PT). commonwealthclub.org

AUG 25 Sarah Chayes: On Corruption in America Chayes shows how corrupt systems are organized, how they enforce the rules so their crimes are rarely punished, how they are overlooked and down played — shrugged off with a roll of the eyes — by the richer and better educated, and how they shape our government, a ffecting all levels of society. (live stream 3:30-4:30 p.m. PT). commonwealthclub.org

AUG 27 Sophy Roberts: The Lost Pianos of Siberia From the piano that Maria Volkonsky, wife of an exiled Decembrist revolution ary, used to spread music east of the Urals, to those that brought reprieve to the Soviet gulag. That these pia nos still exist in such a hostile landscape is remarkable. (live stream 10-11 a.m. PT). commonwealthclub.org

VIDEOS

AUG 6 American Pickle Seth Rogen stars in this absurdist take on Rip Van Winkle, based on a 2013 short story by Simon Rich, in which a 1920s Brooklyn man falls into a barrel of pickle brine and brines himself for 100 years. (Available on HBO Max).

(Available On Demand & in theaters).

LIVE VIRTUAL MUSIC

AUG 1 Petaluma Virtual Music Festival

Live-streamed perfor mances by many of the headline artists which

were a part of this year’s lineup (plus surprise guests), and perfor mances showcasing the tremendous wealth of local music talent in Petaluma and the Bay Area. (live stream 11:30 a.m. PT). petaluma musicfestival.org

AUG 2, 9, 16 (EVERY SUNDAY THRU AUG 16) Stern Grove ‘Best of the Fest’ Festival Video series featur ing epic performances from the archives, artist interviews and special surprises. Each week, the playlists will spot light a di fferent genre

and highlight many of the biggest names to play Stern Grove Festival, including Sheila E. (2012), George Clinton (2016), The Doobie Brothers (2015), Pink Martini (2013), and more. (Broadcasted on KPIX-TV 4:30 p.m. PT; replay available on website and Stern Grove YouTube). sterngrove.org

AUG 14 Charm City Kings Based on 12 O’Clock Boys, a 2013 documentary about the dirt bike scene in Baltimore, this intense drama features Meek Mill and a handful of newcomers. (Available On Demand).

AUG 14 Project Power This sci-fi lm stars Jamie Foxx, Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Courtney B. Vance and involves a pill that gives people superpowers. (Available on Net flix).

AUG 21 Tesla An absurdist and satirical biopic about inventor Nikola Tesla (Hawke) and his feud with Thomas Edison (Kyle MacLachlan).

AUG 28 Fridays at Five – Wayne Shorter Celebration Pt. 4 A series of weekly prerecorded concerts that aspire to connect you – to music, to musicians, to the warm and unique feeling of experiencing live music at the SFJAZZ Center. This week, with Joshua Redman & Ambrose Akinmusire, Danilo Pérez, John Patitucci, & Brian Blade. (members only; $5/ month). sfjazz.org

For a comprehensive events list visit marinmagazine.com/ calendar

AUG 2 World Music Day

AUG 9 Summer Classics

AUG 16

Best of the Fest Finale

American Pickle

Better Makers

• ULTRA CYCLISTS PAUL WEBB AND YANN BERTRAND “EVEREST” CAMINO ALTO IN FUNDRAISER CHALLENGE

Raising over $18,000 for at-risk youth and young adults experiencing mental health issues and addiction.

“Everesting” — climbing 29,029 feet, the equivalent elevation of Mt. Everest — has become a popular challenge in the cycling commu nity during shelter-in-place. Webb and Bertrand successfully com pleted their fundraising event by continuously riding to the top of Mill Valley’s Camino Alto Drive. After 21.3 hours, 239.1 miles, and 15 shots of espresso, they successfully “Everested” and raised over $18,000 for Sky’s the Limit Fund, a nonprofit that makes wilderness therapy pro grams accessible to youth in crisis. skysthelimitfund.org

• BAY AREA ORGANIZATION, 10,000 DEGREES, STEPS UP TO SUPPORT LOW-INCOME STUDENTS DURING PANDEMIC 10,000 Degrees Fellowship program providing $4 million in annual scholarships as well as access to other vital resources.

Leading Bay Area college success nonprofit 10,000 Degrees has redoubled their efforts in the face of the COVID outbreak to provide necessary support to students from low-income backgrounds. In addition to collaborating with school partners and community organizations to increase student support — connecting students with critical resources for education, food, housing, internet, mental health support, disaster relief funds, unemployment insurance, and more — 10,000 Degrees has extended scholarship application deadlines and expedited over $2 million in scholarship funds to provide students with immediate financial relief. 10000degrees.org

Paul Webb, Yann Bertaud, Jill Lerner, Nancy Moore, Andrea Hineman, Judy Leach and Hooman Khalili

Paul Webb and Yann Bertaud

Judy Leach and Andrea Hineman

Talley Webb

• AIDS WALK SF: LIVE AT HOME 2020 RAISES NEARLY $1 MILLION FOR PRC AND BAY AREA SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS

Benefitting those affected by HIV/AIDS and the COVID-19 outbreak.

AIDS Walk SF partnered with PRC (formerly Positive Resource Center), a non profit providing integrated legal, social and health services for those affected by HIV/AIDS, substance abuse or mental health issues, to put on their 35th annual fundraising event — virtually this year. Their event attracted thousands of walk ers nationwide and included virtual guest appearances by Senator Nancy Pelosi, Bette Midler, Gloria Estefan, Vanessa Williams, Jordin Sparks, Laura Linney, Alan Cumming, Matt Bomer and many more. At time of print, donations reached almost $975,000. PRC aims to raise $1 million by the end of their fundraiser on August 7. sf.aidswalk.net

• HEADLANDS CENTER FOR THE ARTS PLEDGES 10% OF AUCTION PROCEEDS TO SOCIAL JUSTICE WORK

Supporting Headlands’ artists and programs as well as Bay Area social justice organizations.

Headlands held their annual art auc tion benefit from July 9 to July 21 this year. They raised over $625,000 in support of their artists, mission, and programs, with up to 50% of auction sales going directly to their artists in recognition of their labor, thinking, and vision. They also pledged 10% of their proceeds, over $80,000 this year, toward Bay Area organizations Transgender GenderVariant & Intersex Justice Project and Anti Police-Terror Project — two groups doing work on the ground to prevent racism and racist policing. headlands.org

Send Us Your Community Love Stories at marinmagazine.com/ the-magazine/ contact-us

Clockwise from top: Bette Midler; ABC7’s Dan Ashley interviewing Brett Andrews; Brett Andrews, Dan Ashley, Craig Miller and AIDS Walk Starwalkers; SF Mayor London Breed; Nancy Pelosi; Gloria Estefan

Together, yet Separate A prescient remodel in Homestead Valley

BY DAWN DENBERG PHOTOS BY DAVID DUNCAN LIVINGSTON

IN 2010, JODI and Mark Martini purchased a spacious hillside home in Mill Valley in need of a little TLC. Despite its quirks, they fell madly in love with the property which had spectacular views. They were especially impressed by how the lot felt private and remote, yet still offered easy access to town and the Golden Gate Bridge. For six years they enjoyed the space, as is, while attending only to its most pressing problems, which included fi xing the rickety decks, and replacing a structurally deficient platform driveway.

Over the years, they toyed with the idea of renovating. But the timing never felt right. “There were a lot of reasons not to do it, one of which was my decision to take a job at Stanford,” says Jodi. The couple contemplated relocating to the Peninsula . But, ultimately decided to stay put, continuing to raise their

two kids, Drew and Lila, in the community they’d grown to love. Once committed, they surrounded themselves with a team of seasoned experts and with their help, turned their dated gingerbread cottage into a showstopping California Modern.

Priority one was a cohesive space where one room organically rolls into the next. “The home, which was built in the fi fties, had been added onto by di fferent people at di fferent times resulting in a choppy layout,” says Jodi.

Highlights of the down-to-the studs remodel include reducing the number of bedrooms from five to four to increase the home’s shared living spaces; moving and expanding the kitchen from the lower level to the entry-level; and relocating and expanding the couple’s master suite

.

The construction phase, while challenging, was worth the effort. “We planned to be

out for six months and it took two years,” says Jodi. Furnishing the space, a project that began in 2018, took another two years. “When we moved back into it, we took almost nothing with us,” she recalls. This meant living with a lot of empty rooms. But the Martini’s wanted to be thoughtful about their purchases. This also meant teaming up with interior designer, Jill McCrae of JM Interiors in Mill Valley. “Jill was superbly helpful and has an unbelievable eye,” says Jodi. “She knew we were after a clean design, and wanted everything to be serene, peaceful and cohesive.”

Jill’s idea: Keep the space monochromatic to complement rather than overpower the home’s views. “Their place is nestled in a canopy of trees,” says McCrae. “It also has sweeping views of Mount Tam.”

So, after discussing a workable color palette, the couple found inspiration in an

unexpected muse, namely, Leo, the family’s seven-year-old havapoo. “He’s an unusual mix of gray that also sort of reminds us of the Bay Area fog,” says Jodi. “And while they stayed with varying tones of gray, Jill encouraged them to layer the home with endless textures, which allows the things to feel dramatic and understated, simultaneously. “We used leathers, linens, mohair, cashmere, velvet, faux fur all within the same space.”

Jill’s design also blended materials from across the globe and price points. In the kitchen, for example, she sourced Italian bar stools by Calligaris that allow the family to gather for informal meals at the island. But they also swivel for an effortless conversation with family members lounging in the adjacent family room. A hide rug in front of the fi replace comes from the Montreal based company, Outpost Original. In the media room, the gray sectional pops with the help of a mix of throw pillows. “We paired inexpensive linen pillows from Room and Board with a trio of more luxurious ones by Auskin, one hide, one shearling, and one a Tibetan sheepskin.”

But Jill’s true stroke of genius — and serendipitously indispensable for a pandemic induced quarantine — was her plan to create defi ned spaces throughout the home that provide opportunities for the family to be together, yet separate. “The home has six different lounge areas,” says Jill. “But we created them with furniture, not walls, so the home doesn’t feel compartmentalized. “You can defi ne the space without obstructing any of the views

Also, fortuitous: the project wrapped up last March. The fi nal piece, an oystercolored , leather sectional by Italian company Loggia for the home’s upper-level lounge. “ We ordered it in February, and it got delivered just as we were about to go into lockdown,” says Jodi

Jill’s “together, yet separate” plan has made adjusting to a new normal exponentially easier. A typical day in the Martini home, for example, would include Jodi, a professor of medicine at Stanford, teaching psychiatry residents via Zoom about nicotine addiction treatment protocols from the home office. While Mark, a partner at the Mill Valley Depot Café + Bookstore, collaborates with designers on renovation from the master bedroom. The kids also spend a fair bit of time on Zoom, as well, as dance and baseball team meetings are currently virtual. But the kids also indulge in old-fashioned, teenage fun goofi ng offtogether or just chillaxing in the home’s garage, now reimagined as a teen lounge.

“Honestly, we didn’t think we would need all the di fferent sitting rooms, but now we feel incredibly fortunate to be able to gather in all these incredible spaces and yet be able to disappear when we need to fi nd our own zone,” says Jodi. And, now more than ever, they’re taking advantage of the home’s outdoor spaces. “It’s been amazing to have fresh air and sunshine and still have distance from people and a true respite during this tumultuous time.

Top: Kitchen with a view; Middle: A luxurious master bathroom; Bottom: The Martini clan

To see more home stories visit marinmagazine .com/homes

DISCOVER THE DIFFERENCE

This architectural masterpiece above Belvedere’s west shore has commanding, panoramic views of the City, the Golden Gate Bridge, Richardson Bay, Sausalito, Mill Valley, and Mount Tamalpais. Designed by award-winning architects Aidlin Darling Design, the approximately 7,500 sq. ft. home took over five years to build before its completion in 2015, resulting in one of the most architecturally significant homes in the San Francisco Bay Area. Its dramatic setting and approximately 26,660 sq. ft. grounds are further complemented by meticulous landscaping and manicured gardens by Blasen Landscape Design. Sleek, modern and defining sophistication, the home incorporates a stunning use of materials, including concrete, steel, stone, reclaimed oak, leather, bronze, and of course, glass to perfectly frame vistas and invite the enveloping views in. Approached through an olive tree-lined courtyard, the home’s main level features formal living and dining spaces, an expansive water view terrace, an art studio office, and a luxurious media room. Upstairs, there is an ensuite bedroom, a huge custom office, and an expansive master suite worthy of a five-star resort with terraces and uninterrupted views. The lower level has three additional bedrooms and a light filled exercise room opening to a pool and spa as well as a sun deck. A two-car garage with carport and an auto-court allow ample parking. The stylish full sized guest house furthers the allure of this incredible estate.

Located on a quiet cul-de-sac, this elegantly remodeled home has vaulted tons of natural light a sparkling pool. to open space, bike trails and Creekside park. Award-winning Miller Creek School District. 4BlueOak.com

This luxurious contemporary home provides a respite for relaxing at home with indoor/outdoor flow to the level lawn and infinity pool overlooking the Bay. 2 offices, gym, media room, 2 outdoor fireplaces plus 3-car garage. TranquilTiburon.com 01045523

2020 Marin Olympics

Like so many other things, the Olympics were cancelled this summer, but we gave our readers the opportunity to go for gold in the Marin Magazine Decathlon. Back in June we encouraged you to grab your mask, competitive spirit and tag us as you hiked the Dipsea trail, walked the length of Stinson Beach, and took part in a number of other challenges we cooked up. And you did. Thanks to all who participated — as of press time, your efforts earned over $5,000 for Play Marin. Go Marin! us your best Instagram snap.