Marin December 2023

Celebrating HOME

DECEMBER 2023

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SUTTON SUZUKI Architects

SuttonSuzuki.com Mill Valley CA 415 383 3139

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Architectural

Design Carpets Marin County’s Designer Flooring Showroom

1111 Francisco Francisco Blvd Blvd EE Suite 33 Suite San CA94901 94901 SanRafael Rafael ||CA 415.458.1717 415.458.17 adccarpets.com Available

by Appointment adccarpets.com

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WO SCHIFFMAN Studio 124

BEING HUMAN

An Illustration Exhibition October 2023 – January 2024

STUDIO 124, ICB Building 480 Gate 5 Rd, Sausalito, CA www.woschiffman.net woizme@me.com PH: 415.324.7068 Color Fields

BEING HUMAN BOOK SIGNING Studio 124 November 18 12-3 pm ICB WINTER OPEN STUDIOS Studio 124 December 2-3 11-5pm ART MIAMI - CONTEXT Alessandro Berni Gallery December 5-10, 2023 ECC AT VENICE BIENNALE Personal Structures Venice, Italy April 20 - Nov 24, 2024 City Lights

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Co era

This holiday season, Marin Community Foundation makes it easy to spread the love.

The Joy Fund provides funding for more than 20 nonprofits working extra hard during the holiday season to ensure our Marin neighbors are cared for.

Your contribution to the Joy Fund will be distributed among these organizations that will make sure food is on tables, rents are paid, and presents are wrapped.

To spread the joy even further, MCF will match funds donated, up to $500,000.

Visit www.marincf.org/joyfund today and make a gift.

Thank you for showing your love for our community!

s∞

Ritter Center ∞ RotaCare Bay Area, Inc. ∞ San Geronimo Valley Community Center ∞ SF-Marin Food Bank ∞ St. Vincent de Paul Society of Ma rin MarinComm_1223_FNL.indd 1

tion Team ∞ Marin Museum of the American Indian ∞ The Multicultural Center of Marin ∞ North Marin Community Services ∞ Operation Access ∞ Phoenix Project/Performing S

y ∞ West Marin Community Services ∞ West Marin Senior Services ∞ Vivalon ∞ Adopt A Family of Marin ∞ Canal Alliance ∞ Center for Domestic Peace ∞ Community Action un t M Co

ExtraFood ∞ Homeward Bound of Marin ∞ MarinLink-Marin Asian Advocacy Project ∞ Marin Center for Independent Living ∞ Marin County

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ICB Art, Studio 250 Sausalito, California www.rebeccakatzart.com @rebeccakatzart

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CONTENTS DECEMBER 2023

FEATURES 40

Riding the Wave

Why San Franciscans are pretty happy with their (much maligned) city.

48

The Line

We know all about cities because they’re built on the same model, but what if there was a different way?

52

Rising From the Ashes

A childhood home in Santa Rosa destroyed by the Tubbs Fire is rebuilt to make new family memories.

52

58

Seaside Sanctuary

CHRISTOPHER STARK

A dated 1970s cottage in Stinson Beach is transformed into a midcentury modern “Jewel by the Sea.”

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DUCHESSA

s ’ a liann

Ju

FINE JEWELRY

“We are a family…so we’ll treat you like family.”

THE VILLAGE • CORTE MADERA, CA 94925 TEL: (415) 924-9711

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CONTENTS DECEMBER 2023

87

91 IN MARIN

OUT & ABOUT

27 Currents

91 Calendar

30 New in Town

Marin City and San Rafael each get new wellness centers, two shops come to Marin Country Mart and more.

LETTERS

110 On the Scene

Snapshots from events around the county.

87 Journey: Andermatt

115 Backstory

122 LOOKING BACK

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An insider’s guide to dining and food in the Bay Area.

MARIN HOME

COLUMNS 22

96 Dine

TRAVEL A ski adventure in the heart of the Swiss Alps.

20 EDITOR’S NOTE

A roundup of what to do in Marin and beyond.

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A home on a steeply sloped property in Strawberry offers stunning views of San Francisco and the Bay.

BEN DAVIDSON PHOTOGRAPHY; KIMBER COMMUNICATIONS (BOAT)

A Santa like you haven’t seen before, Marin Community Foundation pivoted and other newsy bits.

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PRESIDENT / OPERATIONS Nikki N. Wood nwood@marinmagazine.com

Editorial EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Mimi Towle EXECUTIVE EDITOR Kasia Pawlowska DIGITAL EDITOR Jessica Gliddon SENIOR WRITER Christina Mueller DEPARTMENT EDITORS Lotus Abrams, Donna Berry Glass ASSISTANT EDITOR Grace Towle CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lotus Abrams, Ben Davidson, Donna Berry Glass, Kirsten Jones Ne , Paige Peterson, Andy Sand, Grace Towle, Jim Wood

Art ART DIRECTOR Lisa Hilgers PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Alex French CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Lucas Fladzinski, Adam Potts COVER Christopher Stark

Administration CONTROLLER Maeve Walsh

Co-Founders FSCMixNegBKLand.pdf

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Jim Wood, Nikki N. Wood

Volume 19, Issue 12. Marin Magazine is published in Marin County by 270 Media LLC. All rights reserved. Copyright©2022. Reproduction of Marin Magazine content is prohibited without the expressed, written consent of 270 Media LLC. 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 Count y.

Marin (USPS 024-898) is published monthly by 270 Media LLC, 4000 Bridgeway, Suite 105, Sausalito, CA 94965. Periodicals Postage Paid at Sausalito, CA, and at additional mailing o ces. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to 270 Media LLC, PO Box 50, Lincolnshire, IL 60069.

The paper within this product is at least 70% from a Forest Stewardship Council®-certified forest (FSC- C002420). The balance may be rec ycled material and /or controlled wood.

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Take in our vibrant California Coast exhibit and help us restore biodiversity for a thriving California—and planet. Because every visit supports our mission to regenerate the natural world..

Get tickets at calacademy.org AQUARIUM + PLANETARIUM + RAINFOREST + LIVING MUSEUM

‘Tis the Season for Science

Celebrate the season with falling snow, festive activities, and more!

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ANNIVERSARY EDITION

Hans J. Wegner

GROUP PUBLISHER Nikki C. Wood DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING Leah Bronson lbronson@marinmagazine.com SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER Lesley Cesare lcesare@marinmagazine.com SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER Sharon Coleman scoleman@marinmagazine.com ACCOUNT MANAGER Carolyn Ware carolyn@270-media.com

Retail prices incl. VAT.

ADVERTISING ART MANAGER Alex French MARKETING ASSOCIATE Holly Smith

Regional Sales Offices TAHOE Leah Bronson lbronson@marinmagazine.com

CARLHANSEN.COM

SONOMA Lesley Cesare lcesare@marinmagazine.com NAPA Sharon Coleman scoleman@marinmagazine.com NEW YORK Karen Couture, Couture Marketing 917.821.4429

When presented in 1963, the CH07 Shell Chair by Hans J. Wegner was ahead of its time and is today considered as one of Wegner’s most iconic and groundbreaking designs. To celebrate its 60th anniversary, Carl Hansen & Søn proudly introduces an exclusive edition in FSCTM-certified rosewood and oak, mounted with an engraved brass plate featuring Wegner’s signature.

Only available from 2nd October to 31st December 2023.

Price: from $4,705

HAWAII Destination Marketing 808.739.2200

270 Media Founders Nikki N. Wood, Nikki C. Wood, Mimi Towle

Reader Services MAILING ADDRESS 4000 Bridgeway, Suite 105, Sausalito, CA 94965 INQUIRIES: editorial@marinmagazine.com subscriptions@marinmagazine.com | 818.286.3111 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: Please send letters to editorial@marinmagazine.com. Include your full name, city, state and phone number. Marin Magazine reserves the right to edit letters for clarity, length and style.

Flagship Store, San Francisco 111 Rhode Island Street, Suite 3 San Francisco, CA 94103

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Rates are $12 for out-of-state subscriptions or free for California subscribers.

To subscribe, manage your subscription or change your address visit marinmagazine.com/subscribe.

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

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Modern Farm House

Photographer: John Nelson, Aerial Canvas Realtor:Allie Fornesi, Own Marin

Attention To Detail

415.883.9465

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BIBBY GIGNILLIAT Mixed Media Artist

create your own grouping of 24x24’s

Winter Open Studios December 2-3, 11-5pm

ICB Art, 480 Gate 5 Rd. Studio 235, Sausalito or by appointment: bibby@bibbyart.com (415) 309-4152

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E D I TO R ' S L E T T E R

SEASON OF GIVING You’ve heard the adage, “It feels better to give than to receive,” right? Well, according to the folks at the Cleveland Clinic, that’s because during the act of giving, our brains secrete “feel good” chemicals, such as serotonin (which regulates your mood), dopamine (which gives you a sense of pleasure), and oxytocin (which creates a sense of connection with others). So, in the spirit of generosity this holiday season, we’re offering you the opportunity to feel good by doing good.

Over a decade ago, we came up with an expansive guide to giving, and this year it includes more than 40 groups here in Marin (page 69). Executive editor Kasia Pawlowska has carefully curated hundreds of opportunities to suit every budget, from $50 to $10,000. Is maintaining the health of the oceans your COOLEST THING passion, or is it supporting climate I LEARNED THIS MONTH change research, or helping the “It was wonderful to read homeless or animals? For instance, about Saudi Arabia taking $50 could supply 40 pounds of such (literally) huge measures puppy food to the Milo Foundation to preserve the environment or 100 meals for community memby building a sustainable city. bers in need provided by the San The scale of this is amazing — Francisco-Marin Food Bank. Are 10,230 square miles housing you able to give $250? If so, Vivalon over 1.5 million people!” could use that money to deliver 36 — JESSICA GLIDDON, home-cooked meals to homebound GROUP DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER older adults, as well as providing safety checks. Up the ante to $2,500, and you can fund the Opportunity Project for five foster kids at Marin Foster Care, which supports 175 children in Marin, from infants to teens — all in need of some TLC. The opportunities we’ve printed in this issue are only a few of the many available — scan the QR code for the complete list.

One program that’s close to our hearts is the annual

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Seaplane Santa visit. Thanks to Felecia Gaston, we were able to rally Performing Stars students for a pre holiday photo shoot, along with the program’s executive assistants, Sherine Agbulos and Tra’von Riley (photo above). You’ll learn more on page 27, and if you’d like to be one of Santa’s helpers, donate a gift to the Southern Marin Fire District well before the 20th.

We also hope you enjoy Kirsten Jones Neff’s love letter to San Francisco (page 40). Here at 270 Media, we’ve grown tired of hearing about the San Francisco doom loop. Might I suggest finding some time over the holidays to stroll Union Square’s holiday lights, dine in one of the many delicious restaurants, and get inspired in a world-class museum or cultural institution?

Now, if only there was a one-stop-shop guide to San Francisco … Well, lucky you — there is! We recently launched a Local Getaways app to help you navigate where to eat, stay and play not only in San Francisco, but also throughout the Greater Bay Area. Check it out and let us know what you think. With that announcement, dare I say — mic drop — it’s been a great year, and we wish you a happy holiday season and a safe, happy New Year!

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Looking for charitable gifting advice from a team of experts right in your backyard?

We’ve got you covered.

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Wealthspire Advisors is the common brand and trade name used by Wealthspire Advisors LLC, Private Ocean, LLC, and Heron Financial Group, LLC, separately registered investment advisers and subsidiary companies of NFP Corp. ©2023 Wealthspire Advisors.

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Merry

LETTERS

Bright

Turkey Talk

and

I had to do a double take when I first saw your turkey cake cover (November 2023).

[Michelle Heston] is just so talented with cakes. Thank you for the fun take on holiday meals, I’m going to try to add a bit of flair to the table this year, it just might keep everyone focused on the food instead of politics!

— Claudia Cowan, Sausalito

Mixed Emotions We loved reading about Janelle Kellman in your last issue (Conversation, November 2023). What an amazing leader we have right here in Marin County! With all the doomsday news, wars erupting in Israel, it’s so refreshing to learn about someone dedicated to the good fight.

— McKenzie Cook, San Francisco This is so much bullsh*! The earth has been around for [illegible]. Wake up [illegible] liberals.

— J. Scalena, Larkspur (The handwriting was hard to read and we might have gotten the last name incorrect. The note was scribbled on a torn out article about Janelle Kellman.)

As always we enjoy hearing what you like and what you don’t about what you read. Please send your thoughts to editorial@marinmagazine (it’s just easier to read).

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CONNECT WITH US

Assignment Understood In our last issue, we asked for photos of your pets in holiday costumes. Well, you came through in a big way! Here is just a small sampling of what we received.

Thank you for bringing so much joy into our inbox.

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Making Marin Car Buyers Smile for over 20 Years.

Concierge New Car Buying and Leasing Services

www.cartelligent.com l (415) 331-4270 l 2700 Bridgeway, Sausalito, CA

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PEOPLE PLACES CAUSES

CAMERON CRESSMAN

CURRENTS

Sausalito’s Seaplane Santa

Aaron Singer, owner of Seaplane Adventures, talks about his holiday tradition.

BY GRACE TOWLE

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CURRENTS

SEAPLANE ADVENTURES was founded in 1945 and is easily recognizable as a small yellow seaplane soaring high above the Golden Gate Bridge, or maneuvering its famed water landing in Richardson Bay. During the holidays, the sturdy DeHaviland Beaver becomes a mechanical sleigh carrying Santa Singer (his daughters and student pilots, Samantha and Amelia), Mrs. Claus (Aaron's wife, Saskia Thompson) and a load of presents for Southern Marin’s low income children. seaplane.com

What financial legacy are you going to leave your children?

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presents to kids for 13 years now.

What inspired you? My friend Felecia

Helen Abe, CIMA®, CPFA™, CRPC® Senior Vice President – Financial Advisor Senior Consulting Group

Gaston and I came up with the idea.

She had already been doing the toy drive with the Southern Marin Fire District and we decided to have Santa y the toys to the kids.

(415) 445-8468

Do you bring real gifts? Absolutely!

us.rbcwealthmanagement.com/helen.abe

People from all over Marin donate gifts every year, the Southern Marin Fire Department collects them for us.

Financial contributions can be made to Performing Stars of Marin.

Investment and insurance products: • Not insured by the FDIC or any other federal government agency • Not a deposit of, or guaranteed by, the bank or an affiliate of the bank • May lose value © 2023 RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, registered investment adviser and Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC. All rights reserved.

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Did you love Santa growing up?

I’m Jewish! How does a Jewish kid from Oklahoma end up becoming Seaplane ying Santa Claus in San Francisco?

What date are you ying presents this year? December 20th!

CAMERON CRESSMAN

300B Drakes Landing Road, Suite 155 Greenbrae, CA 94904

1/25/23 12:03 PM

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How long have you been delivering presents to kids? I’ve been ying

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CURRENTS

ICB ART

AT THE DE YOUNG

BY K A S I A PAW LO W S K A

Eleven ICB members have been selected to exhibit work in The de Young Open, which showcases talent from across the nine Bay Area counties in the museum’s Herbst Exhibition Galleries. This year, 7,700 submissions were juried by a group of local artists and museum curators. Of those submissions, nearly 900 pieces were selected for the show. Designed to celebrate and support the Bay Area’s local art communities, this exhibition (which runs through January 7, 2024) allows artists to o er their works for sale and retain 100% of the proceeds. ICB ART, located in Sausalito, is a community of artists, many of whom are nationally and internationally recognized. icbart.com

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The eleven artists whose work is on display include:

Raquel Baldocchi - San Francisco Sophy Bevan - Mill Valley Maria Burtis - San Francisco Claudia Cohen - Larkspur Rachel Davis - San Rafael Gretchen Evans - San Francisco Kathryn Keller - Sausalito Cathryn Lynea - Oakland Stela Mandel - Greenbrae Gordon Studer - Belvedere Kate Zimmer - San Rafael

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CURRENTS P R O M OT I O N

BY C H R I S T I N A M U E L L E R

New in Town Bay Area events you’ll want to attend

WINTER OPEN STUDIOS WHEN

Dec 2-3, 11:00am - 5:00 p.m.

WHERE

480 Gate 5 Road, Sausalito

WHY YOU SHOULD GO

The ICB is the center of the creative energy the Bay Area is known for.

With 100+ notable artists showing work ranging from sculpture, abstract and figurative painting, photography, fiber and textile art and jewelry, visitors to Winter Open Studios know this is the one yearly art event not to be missed.

COST FIND OUT MORE

Free icbart.com

Friend us to share and view RSVP Hot Ticket photos at facebook.com/marinmagazine Want to see all the images from our RSVP Hot Ticket events? marinmagazine.com/hotticket

SHOP Outerknown Co-founded by pro surfer

Kelly Slater and creative director John Moore, the clothing brand that stands for a commitment to responsible innovation and passion for the outdoors landed at Larkspur’s Marin Country Mart. The popular Blanket Shirt, plus S.E.A. jeans and jumpsuits and recycled Apex Trunks

by Kelly Slater, are just a few of the items available. From Yorks reclaimed flooring and reclaimed maritime rope art installations by artist Ethan Estess, interior items are responsibly customized. 1009 Larkspur Landing Circle, Larkspur; 415.470.7170; outerknown.com

La Ligne The fifth brick and mortar

location, and first on the West Coast, from the New York brand founded on the universal appeal of the stripe as a timeless wardrobe staple is scheduled to open at the Marin Country Mart in November. In-house designed prints — including dresses, seasonless essentials and evergreen styles — as well as sleepwear, accessories and denim, are just a few of the items available. Exclusive to

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the Marin location is a nod to the locale — the Marin sweater (for women) and Marini (for children) will be offered in cream with mustard stripes, reflecting the Marin Country Mart colors. 1013 Larkspur Landing Circle, Larkspur; lalignenyc.com Scandia Home The American-made bedding brand known for down comforters of impeccable purity and humane sourcing of fills opened a retail shop at The Village at Corte Madera in October. Comforters, blankets and mattress pads are part of a lineup of bedding and linens, bathmats and robes, and other home goods in down, cotton and other natural fabrics. 1618 Redwood Hwy, Corte Madera; 415.730.8740; scandiahome.com WELLNESS San Rafael Health & Wellness Center

Addressing unmet community needs for a range of women’s services, not-for-profit Marin City Health and Wellness Center (MCHWC) opened Women’s Health Center in San Rafael in August. In an

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effort to address health equity, MCHWC serves all women 18 years and older, including under- and uninsured, MediCal/Partnership Health, private insurance and self-pay patients, the Centers offer a range of services, including routine well woman care, pap screenings, contraception, fertility awareness and much more. 880 Las Gallinas Ave, Suites 1 & 2, San Rafael; 415.339.8813; marincityclinic.org Marin City Health & Wellness Center The Marin City Health and Wellness Center, which opened in September, focuses on comprehensive, coordinated care across services at one location. Services include adult primary care, pediatric primary care, including well-baby care, dental care (adults and children), behavioral health services (adults and children), podiatry and more. MCHWC’s mission is to provide innovative health and wellness services to all, with the goal of African American health equity. 100 Phillips Dr, Marin City; 415.339.8813; marincityclinic.org Vivalon Healthy Aging Campus With the mission to meet the unique needs of the entire senior community, Vivalon will open its first blended center for older adults, combining healthy aging programs and affordable housing in a downtown San Rafael building in December. The non-profit, formerly known as Whistlestop, built wraparound healthcare services, vibrant educational classes, accessible transportation, and a myriad of wellness programs designed to improve wellbeing and connection into the project. The campus, an agreement with the nonprofit Eden Housing, includes 66 units of affordable housing on the upper four floors and a Healthy Aging Center operated by Vivalon on the lower two floors. Vivalon will celebrate its 70th anniversary in 2024. 999 Third St, San Rafael; 415.456.9062; vivalon.org

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It’s a thousand things, big and small.

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CURRENTS

Marin Community Foundation Adopts New Vision

BY D O N N A B E R RY G L A S S

The 36-year-old Marin Community Foundation is a powerhouse to nonprofits — during its tenure, it has granted more than $1 billion in funds to organizations throughout the county. But after taking a long, hard look at Marin’s most looming challenges, the foundation knew it was time to reimagine its own mission and grantmaking processes.

As a result, it undertook a year-long strategic planning process centered on input from across the county and beyond.

It gathered the perspectives and priorities of Marin’s older adult, immigrant, African American, youth, unhoused and Indigenous communities via listening sessions. Dozens of nonprofit partners, donors and professional advisors shared their insights with interviews and surveys, as well as other community foundations in other parts of the country.

Two dominant themes emerged from the research — housing and climate.

Because of this, Marin Community Foundation’s new vision is centered on a climate justice initiative to ensure that funds recently designated by legislation for local infrastructure projects, renewables deployment, and other approaches to reduce climate risks are equitably distributed; and an affordable housing and homeless initiative to take on the housing crisis that has been decades in the making.

“We’re looking at every intervention point on the homelessness to home ownership continuum,” said Vikki Garrod, Marin Community Foundation’s Chief of Staff. “First point is trying to prevent folks from becoming homeless. And we think with the great partners we have in Marin we can make a difference here, and disrupt the trajectory of folks who may be precariously housed.” marincf.org

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PROSECCO TO PUSH-UPS AND SO MUCH MORE

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BevMo!, F45 Training Novato, Pure Barre, and over 55 other stores, restaurants and services Rowland Blvd Exit, Highway 101

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P R O M OT I O N

The Look

STEPHAN-HILL JEWELRY DESIGNERS is proud to feature wide bands from Award Winning Yael Designs! Like tiny stained glass windows in frosty 18K white gold, these lavish rings feature pastel Sapphires, diamonds and beaded milgrain border details.

STEPHAN-HILL JEWELRY DESIGNERS

1226 Fourth Street, San Rafael, 415.459.5808 stephanhill.com

SHE DRAWS INSPIRATION FROM PERSONAL MEMORIES, but what Ashley Morgan loves most is sitting with private clients and creating unique pieces from their life and experiences. Ashley says, “What I create with my customers is as special as the story that lies inside the jewelry.”

ASHLEY MORGAN DESIGNS

BELINDA WICKWIRE JEWELRY

526/528 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.785.7519 info@belindawickwirejewelry.com instagram.com/belindawickwirejewelry

STEP INTO THE ULTIMATE WEDGE SNEAKER by TENNELI Shoes.

Discover the power of confiden e and elevate your style to new heights. It’s the perfect gift for the holidays. Available in black and white. Shop now online at tennelishoes.com TENNELI SHOES

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RETURN TO A TIME when attention to detail mattered, pieces were hand crafted by master artisans and people embraced their individuality.

Embrace your individual style at Belinda Wickwire Jewelry. A curation of fine antique jewelry and old world gifts.

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Holiday Gift Guide

P R OM OT I ON

INSPIRED CHOICES FOR

Amazing Gift Giving Dune Ouverture Series Earrings, 18K Yellow Sunrise Gold with Diamonds by Annamaria Cammilli. Available at Shreve & Co. Retail $4,960 415.421.2600, San Francisco, shreve.com

Rodney Strong Our holiday gift sets embody the dedication and craftsmanship we pour into our winery daily. We designed these gift sets with you, our valued consumers in mind, driven by our passion for Cabernet.

We hope these gift sets find their way to your holiday table this season! 707.431.1533, Healdsburg, rodneystrong.com

Discover a world of exceptional modern objects and gifts at ATYS Design. Our locally-owned boutique showcases a superb collection of design products created by the most exciting architects and industrial designers worldwide.

Tucked away in the back of a charming historic courtyard in San Francisco, visit us today and experience the magic of ATYS. 415.441.9220, San Francisco, atysdesign.com

International Orange (io) Spa + Shop, located at Marin Country Mart, offers facials and massages with steam rooms, saunas, and a relaxing lounge. Shop our body care, skincare, and lifestyle products - perfect wellness gifts for holiday giving.

Gift Certificates are also available. 415.563.5000, Larkspur, internationalorange.com 34 D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3

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North Bay Candleworks Order your custom holiday gift card candles from North Bay Candleworks.

Choose your favorite holiday scent: Cranberry Woods, Christmas Hearth, Cozy Cardigan, Fraser Fir, Frosted Juniper, Holiday Gathering. Pricing: 4 oz. $15, 8 oz. $25.

Minimum quantity: 6. Orders over 25: 10% off. Orders over 50: call for quote. 615.540.9331, San Rafael, northbaycandleworks.com

Holiday Gift Guide

P ROX IM A N OVA

Discover the perfect holiday gifts at our new Scandia Home Corte Madera Location. Explore our exquisite selections for the bed, bath, and home, sure to bring year-round comfort. Join us in November and December for exclusive in-store holiday promotions. We are excited to welcome you! 415.370.8740, Corte Madera, cortemadera@scandiahome.com

Sofia Jewelry offers you a one stop shop for all the jewelry lovers in your life. Create your own style with intricate stacking rings, bright colorful gemstones, rich gold necklaces, playful bracelets and classic diamond earrings. Follow us at @sofiajewelry for festive gifts for everyone on your list!

415.388.8776, Mill Valley, sofiajewelry.com Fred Segal, the iconic LA multi-brand retailer, is bringing the latest iteration of the Gift Shop to the bay. Shop a carefully curated assortment of luxe items, grab-and-go giftables and the latest and greatest styles for anyone in your life (or yourself, we won’t judge). 628.877.8987, Larkspur Landing, fredsegal.com

Give the gift of self care with 8 Days Botanicals. Their nourishing farm-to-bottle formulas delight our senses and our skin. Handcrafted on their Sebastopol farm, their cult-favorite body butters and body washes are the decadent gifts we all deserve. Plus, their mini’s make the perfect stocking stuffer!

8daysbotanicals.com @8daysbotanicals

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Holiday Gift Guide

P R OM OT I ON

Stephan-Hill Jewelry Designers – “California Collection” These iconic pendants in 14k gold with diamond accents remind us of the places and landmarks that are so special and dear to us. Mt. Tamalpais, California Poppy & Golden Gate Bridge to name a few. Why not collect them all? 415.459.5808, San Rafael, stephanhill.com

What every high-achieving teen needs: the gift of a stress-free college application season. In just 5 days, Command Education’s College Application Booster® Camp will give your student a leg up in the competitive college admissions process, empowering them to submit standout college application essays to their dream schools. commandeducation.com/ booster24

EXCELLENCE and Bitte Kai Rand, a partnership showcasing our twist on Marin women’s relationship with style. Ease, innovation and ingenuity are synonymous with the fashions found at Excellence.

Embrace Your Excellence. 415.927.9009, 483 Magnolia Avenue, Larkspur

Unwrap the transformative world of personalized skincare with Science & Spirit Skincare. Our bespoke blends of sustainable, organic essential and carrier oils are tailor-made to your personal vibration. Powered by energy science, each product is crafted to nourish your unique skin. Give the gift of magic this Holiday season! scienceandspiritskincare.com

Holiday spirit abounds at West End Nursery. Find the perfect ornamanents and unique decorations for your friends, family, and especially yourself. Get inspired!

415.454.4175, San Rafael, westendnursery.com 36 D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3

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Gallery Sausalito represents a curated collection of 2D and 3D works by 9 contemporary artists. Prices range from $45 to $45,000. Looking for that special gift? Several of our artists work on commission. Come by the gallery for an immersive, art experience and take home a new treasure!

415.887.9238, Sausalito, gallerysausalito.com

Holiday Gift Guide

P ROX IM A N OVA

Johann Paul Fine Jewelry is here to make your holidays extra bright. With gifts for everyone on your list from classic diamond tennis bracelets to vibrant gemstone necklaces to playful stacking rings and men’s jewelry. Follow us @johannpaulfinejewelry to keep up with all our holiday trunk shows and specials!

415.461.1866, Greenbrae, johannpaulfinejewelry.com

Cooling Mint Footcare Set from KM Herbals!

Love your feet this holiday season! Enjoy cooling peppermint in our gentle foot scrub and nourishing foot lotion, handcrafted with care in Sonoma County. Shop online to save 20% off your first order including stocking stuffers, sleep essentials, gift sets, and more! + enjoy a free gift with every purchase!

707.878.2980, Dillon Beach, kmherbals.com

Live it Up Charter creates memorable Bay Area cruises on our luxurious one-of-a-kind 92’ yacht Hotel California. Looking for a memorable place to celebrate a milestone birthday, anniversary or special event? On the water is the perfect venue and ultimate gift! Sip champagne and enjoy your tailor-made menu. Book now!

415.747.4733, Sausalito, liveitupcharter.com

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The Trading Post at the Marin Country Mart is an unexpected riff on your local post office: Yes, it’s a USPS Contract Postal Unit, but mail is just the beginning. You’ll also find a thoughtful edit of locally and internationally sourced necessities and gifts. It’s how the Marin Country Mart does a neighborhood essential, with a generous dose of razzle dazzle.

415.448.5043, Larkspur, Marin Country Mart

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Holiday Gift Guide

P R OM OT I ON

Sustainable style has come to Sausalito, courtesy of Amour Vert.

The contemporary women’s collection is French-inspired designs with a California-natural twist. Discover the latest 100% recycled cashmere, washable silk separates, smallbatch basics, local makers, and more. 628.237.6067, Sausalito, amourvertcom

Adopt an Ocean Animal. The Marine Mammal Center’s Adopt-a-Seal® is the perfect gift for the animal lover in your life. Get an animal’s story from rescue to release plus their photo—you can also add a plush or book! All proceeds directly support this Marin-based nonprofit. sales@tmmc.org, Marin Headlands, MarineMammalCenter.org/AdoptMe

Indulge in holiday radiance with our invigorating Hydrafacial treatment. This ultimate skincare experience instantly reveals a radiant, youthful glow. Discover the ultimate pampering session at our permanent makeup and skin studio in San Rafael. Pamper yourself or a loved one with the gift of glowing skin. 707.299.8061, San Rafael, beyondthebrow.com

At The Marin Jeweler’s Guild gallery in downtown San Rafael, you’ll always be greeted by a local artisan jeweler.

You’ll love the personal attention of collaborating one-onone with our artists. Shop for treasured gifts or find the perfect handmade necklaces, bracelets, rings, and more to make your holiday outfit shine. 415.454.2711, San Rafael, marinjewelersguild.com

Discover the mesmerizing beauty of topaz! Enhance your style with our exquisite topaz jewelry collection. From elegant earrings to this statement ring - we’ve got you!

Stay tuned for updates on our new store location coming soon! 650.440.0217, californiagirlfinejewelry.com

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JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS! “Black Beauty” The classic you loved when you were a kid, now beautifully illustrated by local artist Paige Peterson and thoughtfully abridged for today’s kids by Jesse Kornbluth.

BLACK BEAUTY Anna Sewell/Jesse Kornbluth/Paige Peterson

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BLACK BEAUTY

Written Written by

by Anna Anna Sewell Sewell Abridged Abridged by

by Jesse Jesse Kornbluth Kornbluth Illustrated Illustrated by

by Paige Paige Peterson Peterson

AVAILABLE AT: Book Passage 51 Tamal Vista Blvd, Corte Madera (415) 927-0960

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PAIGE PETERSON

JESSE KORNBLUTH

10/24/23 2:31 PM

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SIMONKR/ISTOCK

BY KIRSTEN JONES NEFF

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remains below the pre-pandemic levels. But according to Alex Bastian, President of the Hotel Council of San Francisco, it is also true that one dimensional storytelling about a deteriorating city is not accurate. Bastian cites a vigorous rebound over the last year and a half, with tourism gaining particular momentum in the summer and fall of 2023.

“In March of 2022 it was sad, the city was still a ghost town, dealing with smash and grabs, businesses boarded up,” says Bastian. According to Bastian, San Francisco has been in the top three in the nation in terms of hotel occupancy in major cities, but was down to 22nd place, with occupancy hovering around 25 percent in spring of 2022. “Now, in the fall of 2023, we are up to 64 percent and are ranked eighth nationally,” he says. “There is no question we are headed in the right direction and we will get back into the top three nationally.” Bastian’s optimism comes from what he describes as a newfound level of “engagement and civic pride” he sees in San Francisco. “I’ve been in the city through an earthquake and two tech bubbles,” he says, “The first steps of recovery are always the hardest. We have more work to do pushing forward on public safety, clean streets, streamlining bureaucracy, but for the first time in a long time I see San Franciscans meeting these challenges head on.”

SF Travel, the San Francisco Travel Association website, confirms this rebounding trend, projecting that the number of visitors in 2023 is expected to be down just 11 percent from 2019 levels, after being down 55 percent in 2020. In August, writer Greg Sullivan, the founder of Afar travel magazine, visited and wrote that he was “pleasantly surprised with how clean the city appeared and how the homelessness was not as widespread as we had been led to believe.” With clear political prerogative, Mayor London Breed’s administration’s recent investment in downtown is significant: the 2023-24 budget includes public safety funding for 220 new police officers over two years and $25 million to support police overtime. The government has also deployed local police officers and state and federal public safety partners to disrupt open-air drug markets, focusing on the Tenderloin and Mid-Market areas. Also included in the budget are increased security measures for parking garages and targeted regular cleaning downtown for streets and transportation hubs — the things that make a place feel cared for, even if office buildings remain vacant.

According to 27-year-old Sierra Nguyen, the associate director of Dolby Chadwick Gallery on Post Street near Union Square, the Civic Center area continues to feel unsafe, but her downtown neighborhood is “getting back

The view has not changed: gaze south from any Marin Headlands hilltop at dusk and the San Francisco skyline glimmers, with its geometric reflections shimmering in amber shades across the dark bay. The silhouette of The City is as enticing as ever — pure magic — but over the past few years, since the Covid pandemic began, the stories told about San Francisco do not match this physical beauty. The term “doom loop” has appeared in so many articles about S.F. that it has become a trope. One prominent headline last year read: How San Francisco Became a Failed City. But what if the ubiquitous doom loop narrative doesn’t tell the whole story of post-pandemic San Francisco? What if some of the common depictions of our beloved city are true but that is not the whole story?

Is it possible our favorite metropolis is still worthy of our devotion? In late 2023, that is exactly what many San Francisco residents and business owners are saying.

Their experience is that several San Francisco neighborhoods are thriving, and even the downtown and Financial Districts, which continue to struggle with vacancies and issues surrounding poverty, are re-emerging, cleaner and more walkable than before the pandemic. San Franciscans will tell you that the negative headlines and rumors miss a broader and truer reality: there are aspects of S.F. that are as incomparable as ever, and life in some parts of the city has actually improved.

The term “doom loop” comes from the notion of the cyclical economic effects of Covid-19. Remote work meant empty offices and shuttered businesses, which resulted in a shrinking tax base and fewer social services. Fewer social services made homelessness, drug use and crime on the streets more prevalent, which led to even more people leaving the city… and so on. Anyone living or working in S.F. during the pandemic saw this urban catch-22 play out, especially Downtown, with a concurrent national fentanyl epidemic reaching San Francisco’s streets and further exacerbating drug use tragedies and public fallout. And, the truth is that downtown and the Financial District have not fully rebounded; office buildings are still empty and tourism

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to normal.” Nguyen lives just two blocks from the gallery, and says she feels quite comfortable moving around her neighborhood. Recently, she says, businesses like her local drug store have opened back up. “The streets feel busy again, and a lot of people are coming downtown Thursday through Sunday again, which is fun,” says Nguyen. “Of course I’m careful, the way you need to be in any city at night, but I feel safe doing my errands, going to and from work, going out.”

Nguyen’s employer, gallerist Lisa Dolby Chadwick, opened Dolby Chadwick in 1997, and has lived in San Francisco since the 1980s when she moved to the then-artsy Tenderloin. Chadwick says that while it is strange that some buildings remain unoccupied, she is also grateful for byproducts of the slowdown. “Honestly, in the years right before the pandemic, when San Francisco and tech were booming, it felt really bad. It was chaos, gridlock, traffic, the speed of everything,” she recalls. “As a gallery owner, it was terrible, you couldn’t park, you couldn’t get a dinner reservation anywhere, it was hard for clients to get to the gallery.”

From Chadwick’s perspective, Union Square and the surrounding area are more live and workable than they were pre-pandemic, a return to the San Francisco she has known for decades. She trusts that business will re-emerge as they have after previous downturns. While large scale retail shops, including the Nordstroms at Westfield Mall and the Banana Republic stores at Westfield and The Embarcadero Center, have closed permanently, Chadwick believes the closures are related to the rise of online shopping as much as they are the shortcomings of the neighborhoods. “And in San Francisco, anything can happen, so you never know what will happen in those spaces,” she adds hopefully.

“Maybe they will become artists’ lofts.”

While large scale retail flounders, the restaurant world is thriving, with a steady stream of new openings all over the city and foodie guides like SF Eater's restaurant openings page are heralding new “it” spots daily. Late last year the San Francisco Treasurer and Tax Collector data showed that in the fall of 2022, almost 120 restaurants opened between late summer and early fall, which was a greater number than the same time period in 2019, pre-pandemic.

On Union Square, Marin County-based celebrity chef Tyler Florence will open not one, but two new Miller and Lux Provisions cafes on Union Square, one a lunch and all day brunch spot, the other offering pastries. Hospitality executive Dawn Agnew began her career at the famed Gary Danko and has worked in S.F. restaurants, hotels, bars and

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music venues for over two decades. Over the past few years she has had a front row seat for the downturn, and also for what she describes as a legitimate recovery. “It’s happening, and it’s happening quickly. Everybody feels it,” says Agnew.

“I would say there are four neighborhoods that are buzzing right now — North Beach, NoPa (North of the Panhandle along Divisadero), Valencia Street and Chestnut.”

Summer days on Pier 39, where crowds of tourists wore the requisite shorts and goosebumps in the fog, confirmed the robust tourist season, and an Instagram search of #DoloresPark shows off a new generation of young city dwellers populating the hipster enclave. According to Dr. Jennifer Brokaw, who has lived in S.F. since 2001, late summer and early fall weekends in Golden Gate Park and the Presidio have been packed with tourists and residents soaking up the dreamy late season weather. Brokaw, the

he first steps of recovery are always the “Thardest.

We have more work to do pushing forward on public safety, clean streets, streamlining bureaucracy, but for the first time in a long time I see San Franciscans meeting these challenges head on.

”

supervising physician for the SF Fire Department, commutes from her home in Cole Valley by Muni to SoMa (South of Market). From her perspective, the city’s newfound orientation toward its most unique resource — open space — has made open spaces like Golden Gate Park even better. “What nobody can take away from S.F. is the natural beauty and access to wilderness. That is not available to us at other U.S. metropolises. When people couldn’t go to the museums and restaurants or galleries, they came to appreciate our wonderful ecosystem,” says Brokaw.

According to Brokaw, who has been swimming in the Bay at Aquatic Park and Crissy Field since 2006, her swims club’s numbers are up from between 600 and 800 pre-pandemic to somewhere in the 2000s now. “And the closure of JFK Drive to cars has exploded the number of people using Golden Gate Park,” says Brokaw. “In September, there were pianos in the botanical garden, more chairs and benches

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everywhere, great little coffee carts. The Tunnel Tops parks in the Presidio have been a huge success. Where I work, the SF Fire headquarters, is downtown adjacent, and what I see is that anywhere anyone has invested in outdoor spaces the payoff is huge… Mission Rock, SOMA, all the way to Dogpatch. Wherever there are parklets or slow streets, it’s booming.” One example Downtown is the popular East Cut Crossing, built in March of 2023 in the Transbay neighborhood near Salesforce and Salesforce Park, a free public rec area featuring pickleball courts, street soccer fields, outdoor fitness center, a beer garden and food trucks.

The most wide-open of the city’s open spaces, Ocean Beach, and the neighborhood bordering it, have also experienced a transformation over the past three years. Of all the locales that became more popular during the pandemic, the Sunset in particular has emerged as a vibrant hotspot. “Rent

in San Francisco is still expensive, but it is less expensive in the Sunset, and there’s great energy in the Sunset right now.

Families and kids, a big surfing community. I’m on a group chat with around 300 people from the neighborhood,” says Jack Mangan, who is in his late twenties and moved from Oakland with his girlfriend and their puppy last year. “We have a huge block party in the fall. The French group makes crepes, that kind of thing, everyone brings their own unique offerings.” According to Mangan, he spends way too much money at Hook Fish, Outerlands and DamnFine, and there are now several Cheers-like bars in the Sunset (including Pitt’s Pub, Woods Outbound and Riptide). “Even if you don’t have plans on a Friday night, you can go by the bar after work. I haven’t had that experience before where I can go to a local bar and know everyone,” says Mangan.

In September, Supervisor Joel Engardio spearheaded the

As any city, San Francisco residents are accustomed to seeing their favorite restaurants, bars, hotels, stores, and hangouts come and go, however, in 2015, the City introduced a Legacy Business program to honor these

100 YEARS +

Palace Hotel

Palace Hotel: 1875 [148 YEARS]

This allegedly haunted hotel remains as popular with ghost-hunters as guests looking for a luxurious stay in the heart of San Francisco’s downtown.

Queen Anne Hotel: 1890 [133 YEARS]

Sprawling Victorian mansion near Japantown with period-appropriate Anglophilic decor and complimentary cookies and sherry for guests.

One of the oldest restaurants in San Francisco, and also the first one to open downtown after the 1906 earthqua e, John’s Grill has served dozens of iconic Hollywood stars, sports figures, Presidents and other politicians over years, but most likely associate it with The Maltese Falcon.

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COURTESY OF PALACE HOTEL

John’s Grill: 1908 [115 YEARS]

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first Sunset Night Market, which was inspired by the Asian night markets he saw while visiting his husband’s family in Taiwan. The evening street festival, held in September on Irving Street between 20th and 23rd Avenues and funded

by Avenue Greenlight, a local organization providing grants to community based initiatives to revitalize San Francisco neighborhoods, featured over 70 vendors, music and dance and cooking demonstrations. The inaugural night market was wildly successful, drawing thousands and confirming The City’s appetite for open air events and activities.

Off the Grid, Bhangra & Beats, and Undiscovered Block Party, a recurring Filipino night market in SoMa, have had similar success. State bill, AB 441, announced in July and sponsored by assemblyman Engardio and Matt Haney, would streamline the permitting process for farmers markets and night markets. “Night markets celebrate food,

music, art, and all the fun things in life,” said Engardio in a press release. “As we address the serious issues facing San Francisco, a night market reminds us why our city is worth fighting for by creating more joy. It also brings people together, makes streets safer, and helps small businesses — everything we need to create our best San Francisco.”

While that “best San Francisco” is not 100% back, San Franciscans will tell you that their city is healing and that life on the ground is far from doom loop and gloom. There is an optimism on the ground which in and of itself can add to quality of life. “S.F. is a boom and bust city; it was born that way, it has always been that way,” says hospitality consultant Dawn Agnew. “There are two kinds of people in S.F.: the people who leave, and the people who stay and ride out the waves. There are a whole lot of people taking advantage of the opportunities in this city right now.”

longstanding businesses. All of the establishments included in this list, from radical theater groups to haunted hotels, are more than 25 years old and have stayed true to their essential spirit since founding.

50 YEARS +

25 YEARS +

Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar: 1945 [78 YEARS]

Caldwell Snyder Gallery: 1983 [40 YEARS]

What they do: This classic tiki bar serves tropical concoctions and pan-Asian snacks in a richly decorated room with a massive indoor lagoon.

Founded by Oliver Caldwell and Susan Snyder, the gallery has grown into a contemporary powerhouse with international reach, representing a roster of over 50 artists from the U.S., Europe, and Latin America, with a focus on innovative painting and sculpture.

City Lights Bookstore: 1953 [70 YEARS]

Founded by poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti, this historic bookstore was a central hub for the Beat Generation writers who gathered in North Beach in the 1950s.

Pier Market 1983 [40 YEARS]

COURTESY OF CALDWELL SNYDER GALLERY

Seal Rock Inn: 1959 [64 YEARS]

Opened by the Simmons Family, who developed Pier 39, Pier Market is still serving excellent seafood and people watching.

Guests can soak up the fog at this modest hotel perched at the extreme western edge of San Francisco near Land’s End and Sutro Baths.

La Cumbre: 1967 [56 YEARS]

Mandalay Restaurant: 1984 [39 YEARS]

This modest eatery has a strong claim to being the birthplace of the Mission burrito, which they serve along with French frystuffed California burritos

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San Francisco’s oldest Burmese restaurant draws hungry crowds for its tea leaf salad and its sumptuous soups and curries.

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Innovative Design Distinctive Details

SUTTON SUZUKI Architects

SuttonSuzuki.com Mill Valley CA 415 383 3139

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CHRISTOPHER STARK

S T E P I N S I D E A M O U N TA I N T O P H O M E I N S A N TA R O S A A N D A S E A S I D E R E T R E AT I N S T I N S O N B E A C H .

M ARIN DECE M B ER 2020 47

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No roads, cars or emissions, THE LINE will run on 100% renewable energy and 95% of the land will be preserved for nature.

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THE LINE THE LINE IN NEOM WILL BE 33 TIMES BIGGER THAN NEW YORK CITY. IT WILL BE 100% SUSTAINABLE. IT WILL RELY ON RENEWABLE ENERGY. IT WILL BE WALKABLE. IT WILL BE, LITERALLY, A NEW CITY.

BY PAIGE PETERSON

Our understanding of cities is informed by how they developed. In rural areas, they tend to be small with plenty of room for people to spread out. When near water, they reflect it ommercially — often geared toward facilitating trade and the movement of goods.

As populations grow, cities expand. As space becomes more valuable, cities grow vertically.

The wealthy occupy the high floors; the poor live in their shadow. Congestion, pollution and complaints are inevitable.

WHAT IF THERE WAS A DIFFERENT WAY?

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Saudi Arabia’s current population is 32 million. It’s projected to reach about 45 million by 2030. Yes, it’s a large country — it occupies 830,000 square miles, and it’s the fifth-largest in Asia, the secondlargest in the Arab world, and the largest in West Asia and the Middle East. It's understandable that people don’t quite grasp that the existing infrastructure is becoming strained as the Kingdom grows. Something needs to happen on all that available land.

This project’s ambition is signaled by its name. The first three letters of NEOM come from the Ancient Greek prefix neo — meaning “new.”

The “M” is from “Mustaqbal,” an Arabic word meaning “future.”

“We want to raise the capacity of Saudi Arabia, get more citizens and more people in Saudi Arabia. And since we are doing it from nothing, why should we copy normal cities?” When was the last time you heard a real estate executive speak of a development as car-free and carbon-neutral, or describe this development in unequivocal superlatives, as “the most ambitious infrastructure project in history?”

In the West, “biggest” means an 85-story needle dominating the skyline. In Saudi Arabia, where NEOM’s first goal is “thinking differently about everything,” one project is, literally, a new city that will be 100% sustainable. It will rely on renewable energy. It will be walkable.

“The Line,” as it’s called, will stretch over 170 kilometers (105 miles) on the Red Sea Coast in the northwestern Saudi province of Tabuk. It will lie within the 10,230 square mile NEOM development — as much land as the entire country of Belgium. Cost to Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund: $500 billion. An epic investment? Yes, but this 16-borough city is a key element in Saudi Vision 2030. And that requires a considerable “wow” factor. The Line will comprise 140 modules, each 200 meters wide, 800 meters long and 500 meters high. Each module will house 80,000 people. And each of the first five modules will be designed by a different architecture studio.

Yes, the size is almost beyond imagining — but not for the visionary architects designing these modules.

PETER COOK, FOUNDER OF THE COOK HAFFNER ARCHITECTURE PLATFORM, is 86 years old. His age matters,

he contends. “It’s always assumed the young are more progressive.

NEOM.COM

THE LINE will eventually accommodate 9 million people and will be built on a footprint of just 34 square kilometers.

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Residents will have access to all daily essentials within a ve-minute walk, in addition to high-speed rail with an end-to-end transit of 20 minutes.

Now, I think the youngest architects are nervous. They're very nervous. They're not natural experimenters. Me, I came out of a funky period."

THOM MAYNE, FOUNDING PARTNER, MORPHOSIS: "It's actually a complicated project, but the big idea is incredibly simple.

In our presentation, we showed a conceptual map that took New York apart. It was very important to us to develop the scale that broke down socially into communities that had personalities and gave people opportunities to live in very different environments like you would in London or Manhattan. I drive a Tesla, and I see that now that's transitional. It's the last car before there's no cars."

WAEL SLEIMAN, ARCHITECT AT OMA: "Humans in general tend to go horizontal and avoid vertical by all means possible.

Lifts and stairs and things like that are abrupt interruptions during movement. They hate it."

The architects’ visions are personal, but there is universal agreement on the mission statement: the city must be in harmony with a quality urban living experience and the nature that surrounds it. So it is crucial that the Line will run on 100% renewable energy and 95% of the land will be preserved for nature — percentages that will be hard for any country to beat.

How can The Line achieve such criteria? By compacting the city between two 1,600-foot-high mirrored buildings that will be separated by a 660-foot outdoor space. “Urban sprawl” will definitely not be a factor here. Nor will pollution — a high-speed train that can travel from one end of the city to the other end in just minutes should make no one nostalgic for a personal car. And eliminating expenses for car insurance and fuel will also give residents more disposable income.

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Crews broke ground for The Line in 2019. The founders hope it will be home to as many as 1.5 million people by 2030. By 2045, they dare to dream that 9 million will live there. Will it be as crowded as a European or American city? The creators don’t think so — this mega-city will be 33 times bigger than New York.

This new city will be powered solely by cutting-edge renewable energy sources. For the world’s second largest oil producer and largest exporter of oil to move away from fossil fuels for such a project — that’s big news. But not for those who are dazzled by projects that emerge in the desert like the monolith in “2001,” as big as the creation of The Line. As the legendary Peter Cook has said, “The Line is something that is intriguing to many people, puzzling to many people, and in some ways, puzzling even to those who are involved in designing it. If it succeeds, it will be a new Babylon.”

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RISING FROM THE

ASHES A CHILDHOOD HOME IN SANTA ROSA DESTROYED BY THE TUBBS FIRE IS REBUILT TO MAKE NEW FAMILY MEMORIES.

BY LOTUS ABR AMS | PHOTOS BY CHRISTOPHER STARK

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The gable roof extends over the pool deck to provide shade and mitigate heat gain on hot, sunny days.

IN OCTOBER OF 2017, THE TUBBS FIRE BLAZED through Napa, Sonoma and Lake counties, burning more than 35,000 acres and claiming nearly two dozen lives.

In Santa Rosa alone, the fire destroyed 2,900 residences, including Mia Ligety’s childhood home, which she owned with her husband, Ted Ligety, a retired alpine ski racer and Olympic gold medalist.

Although the couple’s primary residence is in Utah, the loss was devastating for Mia, whose family has deep roots in Santa Rosa.

With the intention to rebuild on the mountaintop property that held so many family memories, the couple assembled a team to bring the home back to life, including Larkspur architect Keith Kirley, San Francisco interior designer Zoe Giraudo and Santa Rosa-based Baer

Construction. The couple wanted the home to serve as a gathering place for their extended family to enjoy each other’s company, as well as the sweeping views of the valley 1,200 feet below and the coastal mountain range. With their own young son and elderly family members in mind, the Ligetys also hoped to improve upon the accessibility of the original 1,800 square-foot residence, which was configured on multiple levels.

“They were really looking to build a home that felt like a family compound,” says Giraudo, who owns design firm Four Wallz. “The first part of the conversation was, 'How do we rebuild a home that we’ve spent so many years enjoying and make it even bigger with more space for our family as it continues to grow with young children?'”

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The Ligetys, who are frequent international travelers, envisioned a mountain modern retreat inspired by the homes and hotels they encountered on their trips to New Zealand and the Alps. “They sent us a series of images when they were in New Zealand that all had a similar gable feature, but we didn’t have a name for it,” recalls Kirley, managing and founding partner at Kirley Architects. “Then in one of the meetings Mia said, ‘I think we should call this the New Zealand gable.’

After she coined the term, we spent the next two-and-a-half years discussing how to execute this New Zealand gable.”

Fast forward, and the “New Zealand gable” is now the most prominent architectural feature of the Ligetys’ 3,750 square-foot home, which encompasses four bedrooms, three full baths, two

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Sleek concrete ooring with integrated radiant heat and a concrete cantilever stairway are softened by wood accents in the kitchen and dining area.

The “sky room” off rs guests picture frame views through oorto-ceiling windows from a custom wallto-wall bed.

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powder rooms and an office on two floors; a pickleball court; a detached artist’s studio; and 3,000 square feet of hardwood ash decking. The gable forms a peaked ceiling in the great room and extends over the deck, where the underside is sheathed in cedar, framing dramatic views of the landscape and infinity pool with an integrated hot tub — an ideal spot to watch the sun go down.

In the great room, two sets of massive Fleetwood sliding door systems on the west and south sides of the home open to the deck and a concrete patio under the gable overhang. The concrete flooring extends into the great room with integrated radiant heat to create a seamless transition from inside to outside, and a concrete cantilever stairway complements the design. “We wanted to create a sense of openness from the living space to the exterior areas, especially because it’s challenging to have a yard on a steeply sloped

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The kids’ room sleeps ve and features a black-andwhite color palette used throughout the home.

site like this,” Kirley says. “It also makes the home feel even larger than it really is.”

When the wind picks up due to the property’s high elevation, the glass doors can easily be shut without losing the view. The house is also exposed to intense sunlight, but the gable and strategically placed louvered overhangs shield the large windows, mitigating heat gain.

The new home is built in a similar location to the former one, since much of the steeply sloped 14-acre site isn’t buildable, however, the accessibility has been vastly improved, with all of the common spaces situated on the first floor at entry level.

“Throughout the design process, the clients were always referencing their former home and how different it was from what we were doing,” Kirley says. “I think it was actually an advantage that I never saw the

previous house though, because it allowed us to look at the site in a new light and come up with different design solutions.”

Kirley was also able to achieve an element of surprise with the design by blocking the view of the valley below with a large, corrugated retaining wall adjacent to the entrance. “You drive up a winding road for about 10 minutes to get to the top of this hill, and when you enter the house there’s a small foyer and then the view opens up,” he says. “It’s the first time you realize how high you are, and it’s an incredible feeling.”

Like the architecture, the home’s interior finishes and design are influenced by the Ligetys’ travels. From the kitchen to the bedrooms, the spaces are minimalist yet still manage to feel warm and inviting.

The home is also “family proof,” Giraudo

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says, an important consideration since the Ligetys now have three children. “The vibe is a combination of mountain modern and Scandinavian design,” she says.

In the kitchen, one side of the large island is devoted to a communal seating area, where guests face each other rather than sitting in a row. “It’s really the heart of the home,” Giraudo says. Black-painted cabinets and black steel hardware provide a striking counterpoint to the Carrara marble countertop and backsplash — a play on contrasts employed throughout the house.

Mia fondly remembers gathering around the fireplace on chilly nights when she was growing up, so the team thoughtfully positioned the fireplace in the new house to invite lingering, adding a custom bench made of oak, a material utilized elsewhere in the house. “We really wanted

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Top: A large, corrugated retaining wall blocks the stunning view of the valley below, which is revealed to guests upon entering the home.

Bottom: The primary bathroom features a freestanding bathtub, hexagon-shaped oor and wall tiles, and a globe light designed by Bertjan Pot for Moooi.

to add some warmth into the design, so we incorporated natural wood wherever we could,” Giraudo says.

Upstairs, the primary bedroom features a custom bed from Eastvold, while the luxurious primary bathroom includes a freestanding tub, hexagon-shaped wall and floor tiles, and a globe light made of epoxy-dipped fiberglass designed by Bertjan Pot for Moooi — all in shades echoing the home’s light-and-dark theme.

The kids have their own special room in the house, too, which features bunk sleeping for five accessed via a black steel ladder, so cousins and friends can join in the fun. Meanwhile, overnight guests who stay in the “sky room” are treated to stunning views through floor-to-ceiling windows from a custom wall-to-wall bed, also from Eastvold. “The room is about 60 feet in the air and is built out kind of like a picture frame so that when you look out, you don’t see any peripheral view,” Giraudo says.

While nearly everything in the house is new, the Ligetys managed to salvage a few items after the fire, including a mirror that belonged to Mia’s grandmother and several vessels, which Giraudo incorporated into the décor. These sentimental items add a personal touch to the home.

“This project was really driven by our client with respect to the situation and what existed on the property prior to the fire,” Giraudo says. “We tried to draw from the experience of home that Mia already felt on the property. It was very collaborative, and I think it came out beautifully.”

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SEASIDE SANCTUARY

BY LOTUS ABR AMS PHOTOS BY ADAM POTTS

THE TINY COMMUNITY OF STINSON BEACH has long lured day-trippers to its lovely crescent-shaped, white-sand beach ringed with bungalows and a handful of shops and restaurants.

For a couple from Mill Valley with a passion for outdoor pursuits and an empty nest, however, the secluded enclave was the perfect location for a second home. The pair purchased a 1,400 square-foot, threebedroom, two-bath beachfront cottage, enchanted by its beachfront setting, inviting instant toes-in-the-sand satisfaction, right out the backdoor. They soon realized, however, that the home would require a major makeover to truly serve as the coastal retreat they longed for.

The kitchen was dated, with plywood cabinets, old appliances and Formica countertops. A mishmash of flooring surfaces made the layout feel choppy. The outdoor spaces were poorly maintained and uninviting. And, with single-pane windows and doors and a wood-burning fireplace, the

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Y

A DATED 1970S COTTAGE IN STINSON BEACH IS TRANSFORMED INTO A MIDCENTURY MODERN “JEWEL BY THE SEA.”

The homeowners enjoy beach access and ocean views from the back door of their home.

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home also lacked energy efficiency.

Along with addressing these issues, the couple hoped to impart the home with a warm, organic midcentury modern aesthetic befitting its stunning setting. “We wanted a peaceful style focused on the ocean and mountain views that would offer fenced-in privacy but also enhance the neighborhood pedestrian experience with a beautiful entry,” the wife says. “We also wanted colorful gardens with textures and scents to draw pollinators like hummingbirds and bees, flowers to cut and lemons to enjoy.”

Ready to renovate, the couple turned to Susan Skornicka, founder of Ross-based Skornicka Designs & Construction, for her

expertise in interior and landscape design.

Skornicka tapped Gubbins Building Company of Fairfax to handle the execution, and the team got to work.

To improve the home’s energy efficiency, the team installed double-pane Blomberg windows and sliders, energy-efficient appliances, solar with battery backup, electric car charging, updated electrical wiring and plumbing, and new insulation. They also installed eco-friendly plaster walls and sustainably forested wide-plank European white oak floors throughout the home.

“It made a huge difference to connect the flooring,” Skornicka says. “Before, there were different colors in each room.”

In the kitchen, the team installed

custom walnut cabinetry made by Mitchel Berman Cabinetmakers and a striking, expansive iridescent tile backsplash from Sonoma Tilemakers on parallel walls that evokes the multihued colors of sea. A passthrough window opens to an outdoor dining area for easy outdoor entertaining.

The kitchen countertops are made from limestone, the same material Skornicka used for the bathroom countertops and on the surround for the fireplace, which was updated with a gas insert and a custom mantle, also by Berman.

Offering sweeping views of the Pacific, the living room is outfitted with furniture and textiles from SummerHouse in Mill Valley. Blue accent pieces and artwork

At the front of the house, wood fencing provides privacy for the homeowners, while the slatted metal gate creates a sense of community, off ring passersby a glimpse of the garden.

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Strategically placed windows o er views of the ocean from the outdoor dining area, which is protected from the windy coastal weather.

by Joe Brubaker, Plamen Tanev and Jeff Rutchik from the owners’ own collection add color and texture to the space.

Outdoor-grade fabric ensures the living room couch can stand up to a beach house lifestyle. “Everything’s washable and nothing is too precious in the house, yet it still feels elevated,” Skornicka says, likening the look to “natural luxury.”

Despite the home’s diminutive size, Skornicka ensured every space was functional, adding custom closets to maximize storage, for example, as well as beautiful details throughout. “The rooms are small, but they each feel very special, and everything is as the clients wished,” she says.

“That’s the reason we call the house ‘Jewel by the Sea.’”

The home’s outdoor areas are equally appealing and help to extend the living space, with different “zones” for dining, entertaining, relaxing and enjoying the coastal lifestyle. The outdoor living and dining room is protected from windy weather yet still offers a view of the sea through cleverly positioned windows in the living room. A cozy nook with a firepit near the entry invites lingering after dinner. The pollinator-attracting garden, planted with orange and blue salvia and cool blue succulents, complements the seaside landscape. And a deck tucked under the home’s eave at the back of the house is an ideal spot to while away the afternoon enjoying the views until the sun descends behind the Pacific.

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“All day, all weather, the oceanfront porch is our favorite place to spend time, both solo and when entertaining,” the homeowner says. “The ocean is so near and alluring with the sounds, smells and ever-changing sights. We watch birds, seals and occasionally whales while enjoying nature right outside of our home.”

By employing a slatted metal gate at the front of the house, along with wood fencing, Skornicka was able to balance the homeowners’ dual desires for both privacy and a sense of community. “When you drive through Stinson Beach, you typically see a lot of fences in front of the homes,” Skornicka says. “We wanted to make the design more communal, so

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when people are walking by, they can peek into the garden while still providing privacy.”

While the couples’ Stinson Beach house was meant to be a second home, it did serve as a primary residence for more than a year during the pandemic between the time they sold their Mill Valley home and subsequently bought a new home in Kentfield. Now, the

home’s sense of tranquility and ease provides a welcome respite from busy life whenever they visit, and they appreciate every detail of the design.

“There is a simplicity of the setup and an intimacy with the ocean,” the wife says.

“We love the experience of entering from the street, passing through the multi-textured

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and scented garden beds, the thoughtfully hand-stacked masonry, the sturdiness of the stairs and deck and the solidness of the doors.

Then you enter the home with its beautiful wide-plank wood flooring; subtle plaster-textured walls; and unique furnishings, fabrics, rugs and artwork, all enhancing the passage to the ocean.”

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Far left: The living room features a limestone replace surround, furniture and textiles from SummerHouse in Mill Valley, and art from the homeowners’ personal collection.

Left: Details in the kitchen include the iridescent tile backsplash from Sonoma Tilemakers, limestone countertops, pass-through window and custom walnut cabinetry by Mitchel Berman Cabinetmakers.

Below: Limestone oor tiles from Eco Outdoor and Janus et Cie furniture from SummerHouse create a sense of natural elegance in the outdoor lounge and dining area.

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S PAC E S G A L L E RY

ENVELOPED IN WHITE FINDS AND ACCENTS TO CELEBRATE A CLASSIC WINTER PALETTE. BY ANDY SAND

ONYX POLAR BEAR To anchor the winter fantasy, look to this charming polar bear hand carved from onyx.

Great to use as a door stop or tabletop decoration. Available for $379 at Arhaus.

CERAMIC FRENCH PRESS IN GLOSS CREAM Befitting a service for a ski chalet, this ivory ceramic French press delivers a hint of Scandinavian style along with piping hot coffee. Available for $120 at Acacia.

BC WORKSHOP MINI PEYOTE CHAIR IN SHEARLING As though it were pastry dough rising to perfection this impossibly plump and sumptuous swivel chair celebrates lamb shearling with impressive proportions. Starting at $11,500 at Blackman Cruz.

WHITE GLITTER BAY LEAF GARLAND A most versatile decorating tool, garland can be completely transformational. This ice white bay leaf garland shimmers like fresh snow and celebrates the enchantment of winter. Whether it is wrapping a banister or used as a window sash this faux flo al is utterly festive. Available for $13.99 per 5 ft. at Jamali Garden.

WIGGLE STOOL With animated pinwheel quilting and bleached Douglass fir legs, the wiggle bench, designed by Studio Sam Klemick, keeps it refreshing with a white-on-white textural language and playful silhouette. To the trade, available at Studio Sam Klemick.

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IRG + PORT LAURENT MARBLE Fashionable and fantastic, IRG’s new Port Laurent Marble makes a bold statement. Use it to create a vast focal wall or add dramatic interest to a small space. In stock today.

Discover more about Port Laurent Marble

THE stone destination. www.marblecompany.com 415.657.0280 Brisbane 925.829.1133 Dublin 916.387.0481 Sacramento

MARBLE | GRANITE | ONYX | QUARTZITE | PORCELAIN | PENTAL QUARTZ | SOAPSTONE | SEMI-PRECIOUS STONE

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S PAC E S G A L L E RY

CEDRUS BOTANIC CANDLE Scent memory is an excellent way to conjure up the nostalgia of holidays’ past. Set the tone with this attractive soy candle with key notes of cedar and birch. Available for $26 at Earthen.

ICE-CAST FROST GLASS #16 Designed by Steven Haulenbeek, this ethereal sculpture immortalizes the spirit of a winter’s frost. Crafted from a unique ice casting process this piece is truly exceptional. To the trade, available at Steven Haulenbeek.

BROWMLEY HAIR ON HIDE COCKTAIL SHAKER Keep the cocktails coming and make sure the bartender’s hands keep warm! This delightful arctic white hair on hide cocktail shaker is great bar accessory to compliment a winter white color palette. Available for $110 at Hudson and Vine.

WHITE SCALLOP TRIM COCKTAIL NAPKIN Perfect for a winter soiree, these scalloped white cocktail napkins made from 100% linen serve as a hallmark for fine entertaining. Available for $10 at Well Made Home.

SEREN THROW IN IVORY Striking in vivid white, this luxurious 100% cashmere throw brings in Parisian fashion house energy with delicate patchwork fringe appliqué.

Available for $1,113 at Oyuna.

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STEWART CONSTRUCTION STEWARTCONSTRUCTIONSERVICES.COM

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PROMOTION

marin gives back

Paws for a Cause For more than 20 years, Jimmy Wanninger has made Marin County his home. He’s grateful for the county that’s welcomed him and is now giving back. What he loves most about Marin is its pet-friendly vibe, enjoyed with his loyal companion, London.

Jimmy and London found a local gem in Doggie Styles in Mill Valley, a neighborhood pet groomer that pampers pets and keeps them happy and healthy. These local spots are close to Jimmy’s heart, and he sees supporting them as his way of giving back. Jimmy passionately supports the Marin Humane Society and in 2024, he’s taking this commitment

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a step further. At all Broker’s Opens and Open Houses, a donation box for towels and toys will be out, encouraging the community to make a positive impact on animals in need.

In addition, a portion of every real estate deal he closes in 2024 will be donated to the Marin Humane Society, making every interaction with Jimmy as your real estate agent a contribution to a noble cause.

Pictured: Jimmy Wanninger and London 415.990.8990, JimmyWanninger@gmail.com, JimmyWanninger.com

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We want to make it easy for you, whether you have $50 or $5,000, or even $10,000 available to donate to our great community.

OLGA STRELNIKOVA/ISTOCK

WANT TO

By Kasia Pawlowska

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Marin Court Appointed Special Advocates Wouldn’t YOU love to make a difference in the life of a foster child in Marin County?

A child who may have been abused, abandoned, and neglected? ONE caring adult can forever change and impact a foster child’s life in a positive way.

Each year, Marin CASA provides more than 100 children in Marin County’s Foster Care System with a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA).

CASAs are highly-trained, community-

ExtraFood

based volunteers who provide a consistent, safe, and supportive one-on-

County court system – the CASA relationship ensures that each child’s needs are met, helping them heal from trauma and thrive.

You too can change the story for a child in foster care with a donation to Marin CASA. Thank you for supporting Marin’s foster children!

1401 Los Gamos Drive, Ste. 130, San Rafael 415.785.3862 • EIN: 81-5047208

volunteer in traveling out-of-county to visit a foster child or youth placed with an out-of-county resource family. marincasa.org

O'Hanlon Center for the Arts

San FranciscoMarin Food Bank

Milo Foundation

Kids Cooking For Life

Marin Court Appointed Special Advocates

Covers the cost

Supports a CASA

Marin Humane Buys 10 “going to my forever home" carriers for cats and small pets like guinea pigs and rabbits. marinhumane.org

Marin Humane transforms lives through exceptional animal care, humane education and advocacy.

Every day, it inspires compassion and positive relationships between people and animals.

Gilead House remains a place of hope for unsheltered moms and their kids. For over 20 years, its mission has been to inspire hope and empower unsheltered single moms

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Provides enough food for 100 meals. sfmfoodbank.org

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Pays for art materials for a child in a weeklong art summer camp. ohanloncenter.org

Purchases 40 pounds of puppy food or microchip a litter of puppies

MANDY WILLIAM

Through our direct access to the Marin

of fresh, nutritious groceries to be used in recipes for two classes, serving 30 young chefs. kidscooking forlife.org

$50

SPOTLIGHT

one connection to a child in foster care.

and their children toward financial stability and independence as they navigate the journey to self-reliance.

SchoolsRule-Marin's mission is to close the inequality gap by helping ensure that excellent educational opportunities are available to every student in every public school in Marin regardless of socioeconomic status.

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and kittens. milofoundation.org

Karma Club Provides healthy snacks at this free, newly opened space for teens to gather at Northgate Mall in San Rafael. karma-club.org

$100

Gilead House Buys public transportation for a

single mom returning to college to finish her degree. gileadhouse.org

WildCare

Conservation Corps North Bay Covers transportation for the corpsmembers to school and to work, where they protect communities from the effects of climate change. ccnorthbay.org

CARRIE SCRIMSHIRE

Gilead House

Make It Home helps Bay Area families and individuals transitioning out of crisis. The group recycles, repurposes and curates gently-used, donated furnishings to transform empty spaces into homes. Make It Home Bay Area's mission is to end furniture poverty while protecting the environment.

WildCare, Northern California’s foremost wildlife hospital, nature education center, and wildlife advocacy organization, has launched the Elevate WildCare campaign, a visionary initiative to redevelop their current property in central San Rafael.

Endorsed as a “cause for celebration in Marin” by the Marin Independent Journal, WildCare’s new facility will secure the organization’s future through this transformative project.

The building of WildCare’s new center is not just about bricks and mortar; it’s a testament to their commitment to coexist with, and educate our community about, the extraordinary wildlife that share our world. The project stands as a beacon of hope, reminding people everywhere that our actions can shape a brighter future for all living beings.

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Every year, WildCare treats over 3,500 ill, injured and orphaned wild animals in their wildlife hospital, teaches over 20,000 Bay Area children and adults through their environmental education programs, and advocates for wildlife in Marin County and beyond. Their Living with Wildlife Hotline 415-4567283 answers over 15,000 calls about wildlife annually.

The Elevate WildCare campaign marks a new chapter in the story of this invaluable organization and ensures they continue their work in support of the remarkable local wildlife and the habitat we share for generations to come.

76 Albert Park Lane, San Rafael, CA discoverwildcare.org

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10,000 Degrees COLLEGE GRADUATES WHO CHANGE THE WORLD “My experience with 10,000 Degrees can be best described in two words: Life changing.” - Oscar, 10,000 Degrees Alum 10,000 Degrees supports students from low-income backgrounds to and through college—and beyond. Since 1981 we’ve helped 20,000+ students graduate from college and awarded over $90 million in scholarships. We believe in the potential of all students and have no GPA requirement.

Our students are: • 100% from low-income backgrounds • 93% BIPOC • 92% first-generation college students

Guide Dogs for the Blind

graduated, near-peer Fellows, who share backgrounds and experiences, and provide deep content expertise, resources, and support.

Our alumni are transforming the world as doctors, lawyers, educators, social activists, entrepreneurs, and more. Many come full circle as 10,000 Degrees Fellows, employers, internship providers,

The Marine Mammal Center

ExtraFood

Helps provide one day's worth of food and medication for a sea otter patient in The Marine Mammal Center's hospital. themarinemammal center.org

donors, and volunteers and mentors

Provides 44 meals for a family of four.

Since rotting food in landfills releases methane — a main cause of global warming — this would prevent 484 pounds of harmful gas from entering the atmosphere by

diverting perfectly good food from being thrown away. extrafood.org

with access to online reading and math programs. schoolsrule.org

$250

Guide Dogs for the Blind

SchoolsRuleMarin Buys one tablet for a classroom to provide students

Assists with the cost of a “Puppy Raising Kit” for a volunteer raiser. guidedogs.com

BARBARA ZAMOST

We connect students with recently

through our Career Success program.

DEGREE of Change! Donate and make college possible for Marin & Bay Area students from low-income backgrounds: 10000degrees.org/maringives

1401 Los Gamos Drive, Ste 205, San Rafael 415.451.4016 • 10000degrees.org

SPOTLIGHT

Join our movement and become ONE

Parent Services Project engages and strengthens families to take leadership for the well-being of their children, families and communities.

10,000 Degrees achieves educational equity and to support students from low-income backgrounds to and through college to realize their full potential and positively impact their communities and the world.

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Schurig Center for Brain Injury Recovery harnesses the healing power of community, Schurig Center for Brain Injury Recovery is Marin’s only nonprofit helping survivors and their families adapt to life changes and thrive after a brain injury, like TBI, concussion or stroke.

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Community Institute for Psychotherapy Provides five hours of therapy and referrals for a young mother experiencing the anxiety, guilt and isolation of postpartum depression. cipmarin.org

North Bay Children’s Center Sponsors the

continuing education courses for a preschool teacher as part of their professional development training to bring best practices back to the classroom and beyond. nbcc.net

North Bay Children’s Center

Vivalon Lends a helping hand by delivering 36 homecooked meals and performing

Little Wishes

Little Wishes makes a big difference for seriously ill, hospitalized children facing difficult journeys.

Young patients identify what makes them happy and wish for something that will fill their hearts and brighten their darkest days. All wishes take place in the hospital, and a child may wish for something every two weeks giving them a positive event to look forward to. Receiving wishes also helps patients replace anxiety and fear with hope and joy.

For 35 years NBCC has helped thousands of families give their kids the very best start during the most critical and formative years of development. Our programs offer affordable childcare and early education that build the foundation for lifelong success.

Our economic future depends on developing a highly educated, skilled workforce. Early childhood education is the most efficient way to accomplish this goal, yet so many children are being left out of this system.

NBCC is in the final stages of completing its Bright Futures Campaign, which will enable them to double the capacity of children served at their main educational campus, providing a safe, modern, and expanded learning environment for children.

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Once complete the new facility in Novato will retain the 72 existing childcare slots and add 104 new subsidized slots to serve 176 at-risk children and their families annually.

NBCC has proven its ability to significantly improve the outcomes for so many disadvantaged children.

Each child and family we serve today has a greater chance of future success through our school-readiness strategies, childcare subsidies, and award-winning nutrition education program. But we can’t do it without you. A bright future starts with a single gift. Make yours today.

932 C Street, Novato, CA 415.883.6222 • nbcc.net

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safety checks for homebound older adults, ensuring their well-being is safeguarded through the Meals on Wheels program. vivalon.org

$500

Make It Home Covers the cost of transporting a household of new or gently used furniture to a family in need. makeit homebayarea.org

Bridge the Gap

Domestic violence doesn’t discriminate based on race, geographical location, or time of year. It doesn’t stop for the holidays, and neither does Center for Domestic Peace (C4DP). With domestic violence as the most frequent violent crime in Marin, C4DP’s wide-range of programs and services meet people where they are and help move them to a life free of violence.

C4DP’s compassionate bilingual advocates (English/Spanish) are available 24/7, 365 days a year to assist with safety planning, information, resources, referrals and assessment if immediate emergency shelter is needed.

Options for transitional housing and other support services are also explored.

C4DP offers comprehensive legal advocacy in the criminal justice system

including obtaining restraining orders.

Therapy and case management are available to help non-abusing parents and their children heal from the trauma and build back family unity. Abusive partners can also find support to unlearn the behaviors, attitudes and beliefs that lead to their violence.

St. Vincent de Paul Society of Marin Pays for a precariously housed senior’s utility bill for three months to help them stay housed during a crisis. vinnies.org

Cedars Provides one week of activities, such as parties, games, entertainment, and other opportunities for 90 residents. cedarslife.org

WildCare Purchases an incubator to keep tiny baby opossums warm

From integrated intervention, prevention and education strategies, C4DP leads the community-wide effort and collective response to ending domestic violence.

734 A Street, San Rafael, CA 415.924.6616 • C4DP.org

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Allows one high school student to attend the Comprehensive High School and College Prep Support Program for one month. This program encompasses academic guidance, mentoring, socioemotional support,

enrichment programs, lifeskills training and comprehensive college access assistance. btgcollegeprep.org

LORI MOGAN

Center for Domestic Peace

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North Bay Children’s Center (NBCC)

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Vivalon

Audubon

and safe when they are at their smallest. discover wildcare.org

Ritter Center Provides two medical visits to people who have no insurance or resources to pay for healthcare. rittercenter.org

CASEY ARNDT

$1,000

attachment are one of the most important drivers of healthy social, emotional and cognitive development in children. parentservices.org

Youth in Arts Provides eight, innovative, in-school dance classes with a YIA teaching artist. youth inarts.org

Parent Services Project

Friends of China Camp

Pays for parent leaders to host weekly developmental playgroups for one month. The playgroups are for children ages birth to five and their parents, and are centered around the belief that strong parent-child interaction and

Purchases and installs a new redwood picnic table. friendsof chinacamp.org

Homeward Bound of Marin Provides a week of counseling and wraparound services to help

Vivalon is dedicated to advancing the independence, well-being, and a quality of life of older adults and individuals living with disabilities. In Marin, the need for comprehensive and essential services has never been more crucial. With nearly one in every three residents over the age of 60, many in our community face challenges such as isolation, inadequate nutrition, and financial hardships.

Vivalon takes a significant step forward in its mission to provide connection for older adults with the imminent launch of the Healthy Aging Campus in January 2024. This transformative facility will serve as a thriving epicenter for dynamic living, intellectual stimulation, and the fostering of authentic community spirit. Housing a multitude of services under one roof—

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including a medical clinic, community center, cafe, tech center, classrooms, and affordable housing on the upper four floors in partnership with Eden Housing—the Healthy Aging Campus is a testament to its commitment to enriching lives.

All older adults in Marin County are invited to be a part of this exciting journey and explore the new stateof-the-art Healthy Aging Campus in 2024. Discover enriching programs, dine at Vivalon Cafe, attend a class, and connect with a vibrant community.

999 Third Street, San Rafael, CA 415.456.9062 • vivalon.org

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Youth in Arts

10,000 Degrees

For 52 years, Youth in Arts has adapted and evolved to meet the needs of students and families. We are the primary in-school arts education provider to students with disabilities throughout Marin County, and the seven public elementary schools in San Rafael. Of the 3,500 Marin-based students served, 70% identify as low income with inequitable access to arts learning opportunities.

Your support helps Youth in Arts shape a future where students are compassionate, emotionally intelligent, and collaborative individuals, well-equipped to face the complexities of the world.

917 C Street, San Rafael, CA 415.457.4878 • youthinarts.org

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someone end homelessness in their life. hbofm.org

PNOC Foundation Helps a child with brain cancer access promising new treatment strategies. Unfortunately for a lot of pediatric brain tumor diagnoses, there is no standard of care.

PNOC wants to have a treatment available for every child, but without the development of clinical trials, a lot of patients really don’t have access to any potential therapies. Knowing that the disease has a

grave outcome, it is so important for families that they at least are given an opportunity. pnocfoundation. org

Tribe Rising India Helps create and fill labs to bring the new high school building up to par with other high schools and fulfill requirements for licensing. Computers and physics labs are top needs. triberisingindia.org

$2,500 10,000 Degrees

Funds ongoing training for Fellows, who

ALAINA BAUM

Youth in Arts is taking a proactive approach to help combat the alarming rise in anxiety and depression rates among California’s students, which has surged by 70% since 2016. We are playing a pivotal role in helping children relearn, reshape, and work together to rebuild post-pandemic.

Our professional teaching artists offer innovative opportunities for students to collaborate with peers, manage conflict, and cultivate self-regulation tools, directly addressing social losses.

Our semester-long programs in visual arts, music and dance, give students a platform for emotional expression, collaboration, and self-discovery, essential elements in their recovery process. By nurturing their creativity and encouraging them to collaborate, we empower children to overcome challenges and envision a brighter future.

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provide 10,000 Degrees students with 1:1 near-peer coaching, college and financial aid counseling and scholarship and financial aid management.

Fellows support students in all Marin high schools and at colleges across the nation.

10000degrees.org

Enriching Lives Through Music

TIM PORTER

Sponsors a young musician for a semester. elmprogram.org

MarinArts Provides a scholarship to a worthy arts organization

for one half of the cost of one entire branding and fundraising session of MarinArts Presents. marinarts.org

ExtraFood

Marin Foster Care Association Helps fund the Opportunity Project for five foster kids, which could include a musical instrument for a budding musician, a Chromebook or tablet for school, a prom dress, or a sports uniform. marinfoster care.org

Marin County Bicycle Coalition Provides nourishing snacks and SEPTEMBER DAYS PHOTOGRAPHY

ExtraFood’s mission is to end hunger and wasted food in the Bay Area through their innovative food recovery programs, including food rescue, mealmaking and gleaning.

35% of all food is wasted and food waste is a massive contributor to global warming.

Yet 1 in 5 people in Marin and 1 in 4 people in San Francisco worry about where their next meal will come from.

That’s where ExtraFood comes in - they fill the gap between those who have food and those who need it.

Enriching Lives Through Music

ExtraFood rescues excess fresh food from any business, school or backyard and immediately delivers it to their nonprofit partners serving our community’s most vulnerable people.

ExtraFood prevents perfectly good food from going to waste, which not only feeds our community, but also fights

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the massive effect that food waste has on our environment.

Their vision is to make food recovery a way of life in the Bay Area: to enroll every available food donor in their program, and to capture every available pound of surplus food for people facing hunger.

This holiday season, join ExtraFood in the fight against hunger. Your donation will help them continue to recover food, reduce waste, and nourish our community.

415.997.9830 • extrafood.org 907 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., Kentfield, CA

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Enriching Lives through Music

Homeward Bound

Students participate in ELM for their whole childhood 10 hours and four days per week, year-round. After school they study their primary instrument (string, wind, or brass), and musicianship and receive literacy and academic support.

On Saturdays they rehearse in one of

3 levels of orchestra, which serves as students’ musical home. Promoting deep parent engagement is a core value.

Our college counselor works with students starting in 7th grade to ensure that they graduate high school with the skills, motivation, and resources to pursue higher education and a career of their choosing. Inspired by the transformational el Sistema music philosophy, we believe that if you teach children the beauty of music, the music will teach them the beauty of life.

Schurig Center for Brain Injury Recovery Funds four months of weekly art therapy classes, a powerful therapeutic tool that helps brain injury and stroke survivors increase memory, improve problem solving and process emotions to cope with trauma. schurigcenter.org

Beyond Difference

2955 Kerner Blvd, Ste B, San Rafael, CA 415.870.9053 • elmprogram.org

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Covers transportation for 10 low-income teens to attend Beyond Differences' Activist Academy,

a four-day immersive leadership training that celebrates identity, community and belonging. beyond differences.org

Lifehouse Agency Funds a two-day trip to a horseback ranch for sensory learning for five Lifehouse clients. lifehouse agency.org

RISE Scholars Pays for soccer coaching for the fall and spring season. riseforthekids.org

Center for Volunteer & Nonprofit Leadership (CVNL) Funds scholarships for two

PAIGE GREEN

Enriching Lives through Music (ELM) provides 170+ primarily first generation Latino students ages 8-18 with a tuition-free, immersive instrumental music program and resources that inspire and empower them to pursue their dreams. Most of our students live in the Canal neighborhood of San Rafael. We believe that access to mastery in the arts is a right, not a privilege and that talent is equally distributed but opportunity is not.

ELM is committed to addressing this inequity.

a year of classes for 10 students learning to travel by bike. marinbike.org

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BARBARA ZAMOST

Community Action Marin

first-time nonprofit executive directors to participate in the Excellence in Leadership Program and receive three coaching sessions.

CVNL’s Excellence in Leadership Program (ELP) provides nonprofit professionals with over 30 hours of teaching and coaching from

expert faculty and industry leaders while strengthening nonprofit peer networks. Participants develop executive leadership, deepen their understanding of executive responsibilities and come away with a Certificate of Completion in Excellence in Leadership. cvnl.org

Beyond Di erences

Food brings people together. Yet, hunger and limited access to healthy food are daily realities for people of low income in Marin County. As Marin’s official anti-poverty agency, Community Action Marin is working hard to eliminate food insecurity.

Community Action Marin offers a comprehensive and collaborative approach to improving food security and accessing nutritious food for all Marin County residents.

They are building food security through emergency food boxes and CalFresh assistance, nurturing food entrepreneurs at its Central Kitchen, and providing meals to children every day at its childcare centers.

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Community Action Marin envisions a Marin where all people have an equal opportunity to live their lives with dignity and respect. With a year-end gift to Community Action Marin, children in their preschools will get hot lunches and farm-fresh veggies, older adults will find connection over healthy food from their Central Kitchen, and more individuals will experience well being. Join Community Action Marin to make a stronger Marin!

555 Northgate Dr, San Rafael, CA 415.526.7500 • camarin.org

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Marin Foster Care Association

Center for Volunteer & Nonpro t Leadership (CVNL)

Little Wishes

Provides one year's worth of little wishes to seriously ill, hospitalized children on one unit/floor of a Bay Area Children's hospital. littlewishes.org

Foster families open their homes to bring stability and hope to our community’s most vulnerable children. Marin Foster Care Association (MFCA) provides services that equip caregivers, while delivering resources that foster youth need to heal and thrive.

35% of Marin foster kids are being placed outside of the County due to the lack of foster families in Marin – your support helps boost awareness for local foster parents so kids can stay in their community and at their school.

MFCA focuses on building community among Marin’s foster caregivers. With your support, they can deliver events, trainings, and therapeutic resources that strengthen foster families so they may continue serving in this critical role.

MFCA supports their families through their Community Resource Center,

which carries everything that a child needs to settle into a new home. They use their Opportunity Project grants to fund educational and recreational activities that offer foster youth an equal opportunity to learn, explore, and grow.

MFCA also directs critical attention to the needs of transition-age youth by providing resources and housing solutions for those aging out of foster care.

Builds an outdoor classroom for events, programs,

Sparkle Foundation

Provides food, toiletries and cleaning supplies to 100 single mother families this holiday season. sparklenow.org

San FranciscoMarin Food Bank

With your support, MFCA is creating solutions to the challenges facing our community’s most at-risk youth.

55 Mitchell Blvd, Suite 2, San Rafael, CA 415.507.0557 • marinfostercare.org

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Richardson Bay Audubon Center & Sanctuary

and engagement opportunities. richardsonbay. audubon.org BRENNA SCHLAGENHAUF (CVNL); FOX NAKAI (SF-MARIN FOOD BANK)

$10,000

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Marin Community Clinics

VACCINES PROTECT HOLIDAY GATHERINGS The Gift of Safety: The newly updated COVID-19 safeguards our cherished holiday plans by protecting us against severe disease, hospitalization and even death. With these updated vaccines, we can face the winter season with greater confidence.

Added Protection: Why Wait? Delaying your vaccination could mean missing-out on holiday celebrations and gatherings that you have been eagerly awaiting. If you have already had COVID-19, you should still get the updated vaccine. Getting a

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COVID-19 vaccine provides added protection against future infection. The decision to be vaccinated becomes even more important when we take into account factors like the personal risk of severe disease, safety of your loved ones, local hospital admissions, and protection against the most common COVID-19 variant currently causing illness in our community.

Available Near You: There are several ways to access important COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccines. Please contact your doctor or visit

the Clinics’ website for the most up-to-date resources and information: www.marinclinic.org/COVID Get Your FREE At-Home COVID-19 Test: Prepare to test yourself for COVID-19 for a worry-free holiday season. Residential households in the U.S. can order FREE athome tests. To place an order visit: https:// special.usps.com/testkits Larkspur, Greenbrae, Novato, San Rafael 415.448.1500 • marinclinic.org

11/6/23 12:22 PM

PROMOTION

marin gives back

Nice Guys Around Marin Nice Guys Delivery is beyond thankful to have served our local community here in Marin for the last 7 years. We’ve been able to support a number of Local Non-Profits and causes that we deeply care about. We most recently teamed up with Zero Breast Cancer as we hiked the Dipsea trail and helped raise over $100,000 for Breast Cancer Research in late September. Another organization dear to our hearts is Marin’s Center for Domestic Peace(C4DP), for whom our Founder, Monica Gray, sits on the Board of Directors. C4DP’s comprehensive community effort to end domestic violence in Marin County has played a pivotal role in keeping our community safe. Our longest partnership has been with The

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Pacific Pediatric Neuro-oncology Consortium Foundation (PNOC). The PNOC Foundation is determined to improve outcomes for children with brain cancer. “Raising more funds for more research means we can help in the fight for more innovative therapy. That’s what this is all about at the end of the day. Helping as many children as we can.” — Monica Gray, COO Nice Guys Delivery Pictured: Adam Fong, CEO and Monica Gray, COO, both of Nice Guys Delivery 415.855.5914, niceguysdelivery.com, Marin County

11/6/23 12:23 PM

PROMOTION

marin gives back

Redwood Credit Union in Marin In the spirit of “people helping people,” Redwood Credit Union (RCU) is dedicated to supporting our local community here in Marin. With a long history of service and a strong commitment to giving back, RCU has led its community investment program with heart and empathy through the contributions of time, energy, donations, and leadership support to nonprofit organizations and groups that make a meaningful impact. They have been able to support local nonprofits and causes they deeply care about. Most recently, they teamed up with the North Bay Children’s Center (NBCC) to help raise awareness and funding for its Bright Futures Campaign to increase the capacity for subsidized child care

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and critical early educational programs for low-income children in Novato. Supporting programs like NBCC enables them to provide essential care for vulnerable children and assist their families with the resources necessary to secure a strong educational start.

“Raising f unds to build a brighter f uture for many and affording them the opportunity to achieve their goals and dreams is what this partnership is all about. Helping make a difference in the lives of others, one person at a time.” — Brett Martinez, RCU President and CEO. redwoodcu.org

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marin gives back

Making Sausalito Proud Gene Hiller Menswear is beyond proud to support Sausalito Pride. A s a longstanding business in Sausa lito, Gene Hiller’s Tom Gangitano and Wayne Kaleck are passionately committed to making a positive impact in their local community and have been advocates for gay rights for over 65 years. And in 2023, they are dedicated to supporting the LGBTQ+ community and Sausalito’s inaugural pride celebration. Through their support of Sausalito Pride, a local volunteer-led organization, they have helped bring awareness and acceptance to the LGBTQ+ community with multiple pride events throughout the city with over a thousand community members in attendance. Making an even bigger

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impact, they helped raise over $30,000 to provide impactful health and supportive services for the Marin LGBTQ+ community.

Sausalito has a long and colorful history and Sausalito Pride is creating an inclusive community for all. With generous support f rom Gene Hiller Menswear, Sausalito Pride continues to advocate for equality, acceptance and social progress through celebrating and supporting Sausalito’s LGBTQ+ community, culture and history.

Pictured: Wayne Kaleck and Tom Gangitano sausalitopride.org, Sausalito

11/6/23 12:23 PM

PROMOTION

marin gives back

A Smile Changes Everything The Smile Collection is a special collection available exclusively at The Per f ect Provena nce. The Per f ect Provenance is an award winning luxury lifestyle company founded in Greenwich, CT by Lisa Lori and now based in downtown Tiburon. All of the products in the Smile Collection were designed by Lisa Lori and her family to benefit international children’s medical charity Operation Smile who provides free surgeries for children with facial anomalies. As the mother of three children who were born with medical challenges, Lisa Lori has a special place in her

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heart for helping children with disabilities.

Since 2010, Lisa’s family has raised more than $3 million to support Operation Smile, through special events, fundraising, her Three Little Bears initiative, and now through her company’s Smile Collection products. Products include organic tee shirts, tote bags, cosmetic bags, fine jewelry and home f ragrance. To learn more, please visit w w w. theperfectprovenance.com.

415.797.6054, theperfectprovenance.com, Tiburon

11/6/23 12:24 PM

unforgettable private events + wine tasting experiences

In the season of celebrating and gathering, remember Anaba Wines. With six aweinspiring spaces to choose from, a wide variety of small-production wine to impress anyone on your list, a talented in-house Chef, and a team of people ready to welcome you, Anaba Wines is sure to make your moments memorable.

62 BONNEAU RD, SONOMA AnabaWines_1223_FNL.indd 1

707.996.4188

EVENTS@ANABAWINES.COM

ANABAWINES.COM 11/1/23 9:41 AM

D I S C OV E R E X P LO R E I N D U LG E

TRAVEL A Swiss Ski Adventure in Andermatt

VALENTIN LUTHIGER/ANDERMATT-SEDRUN-DISENTIS

BY BEN DAVIDSON

It was height of winter and I found myself deep in the Alps in Andermatt, the largest ski resort in central Switzerland in the canton of Uri. I had skied all morning, making long, sweeping runs through the moderately steep terrain between the Gutsch Express gondola and Dieni lift, taking in panoramic views of massive, snow-draped mountain peaks and distant valley views. It felt unfamiliar, foreign and thoroughly exciting.

Andermatt

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I decided to mix it up and take advantage of the Epic Pass’ remarkable overseas reach and to head to Switzerland, one of its several international ski destinations (along with Italy, France, Austria, Australia and Japan).

After an overnight flight from SFO to Zurich on Swiss airlines, followed by a three-hour train ride to Andermatt, I arrived in the valley by mid-afternoon and checked into my splendid lodging, the Raddison Blu Hotel Reussen, where that evening I enjoyed Swiss fondue and a crisp Swiss beer at their excellent restaurant, Spun.

Up early the next morning for a full power of breakfast (eggs, fresh rustic bread, yogurt, delicious Swiss cheeses — included, like most good Swiss hotels, in the daily room rate), I walked a short distance to the base area ticket office, where I simply showed my Epic Pass and passport and received a multi-day ticket to unrestricted ski fun on the slopes. It was like magic, a sweet start to three days of memorable skiing in the mighty Swiss Alps.

Situated at 1,444 meters above sea level, Andermatt-SedrunDisentis, now partly owned and fully operated by Vail Resorts,

KIM LEUENBERGER

When it was time for a break, I decided to treat myself to a top-notch lunch at the mid-mountain, Michelin-starred Japanese restaurant known as The Japanese by The Chedi, operated by the luxurious Chedi lodge in the heart of the town.

From the wide deck of this Swiss aerie, set at an elevation of 2,344 meters (7,690 feet), I savored delicate sushi and sparkling sake and took in views of the Gotthard Pass, the Oberalp Pass and the lightly inhabited Urseren Valley below. Here, at the foot of the Gotthard Pass, is where four European major rivers — the Rhine, Reuss, Ticino and Rhone — originate and start their start their run toward to sea. The locals here converse in Swiss German and Romansh, two of the countries four official languages. This is the center of Switzerland, and it captures the very essence of Swiss winter skiing.

As I enjoyed lunch and the amazing scenery, I pinched myself: all of this was made possible by my Epic Pass, an unassuming piece of RFID-embedded plastic that usually is my carte blanche access to Tahoe’s Northstar, Heavenly and Kirkwood resorts, with occasional forays to Utah’s Park City resort. This winter, however,

KIM LEUENBERGER (TRAM); BEN DAVIDSON PHOTOGRAPHY (MUSICIANS); FRIEDRICH RHINEHARDT VERLAG/ BASEL TOURISM (BASEL FASNACHT)

T R A V E L B U Z Z A N D E R M AT T

Andermatt; Basel Fasnacht

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KIM LEUENBERGER

Andermatt

is an official Epic Pass resort and attracts guests from all over the world. Its charming, traditional village centre is the base camp for skiers seeking perfect deep powder, challenging steep slopes, and descents with a vertical drop of 1,500 metres. Some 180 kilometers of pistes and 33 lifts climb as high as 3,000 metres amid spectacular Alpine peaks. Andermatt has one of the best snow records in the Alps, with a season that typically offers skiing from mid-November to late April.

On the other side of the Oberalp Pass, Sedrun and (new for Epic Pass holders this season) Disentis feature wide slopes perfectly suitable for families and beginner and intermediate skiers.

Epic Pass holders can purchase an upgrade with access to the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn Glacier Express train for the ride back to Andermatt.

After lunch, I hit the slopes, making more long runs on the Gemstock and back to Oberalpp Pass, where I caught the Glacier Express’ very fun apres ski train back to Andermatt.

Before I wrapped up my Andermatt ski visit, I joined a nighttime snowshoe walk above the old town with local guide Banz Simmen.

Banz, a veteran snowboarder and mountain guide, gave an entertaining 90-minute walk in the snowy slopes above town, giving me the fascinating history and insights about the geography and geology of the region. I finished the evening with another fondue meal at the local’s favorite restaurant, Ochsen, set in the cellar of a historic building in the Old Town section of Andermatt.

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Switzerland Winter Festivals

Instead of heading directly back to Zurich, I decided to extend my Swiss visit and check out one of the country’s not-to miss, incredibly colorful, and thoroughly strange, winter traditions: the Basel Carnival, a three-day nonstop celebration of winter that harks back to medieval times.

Also known as Fasnacht, Switzerland’s winter carnivals are held either pre-Lent or post-Ash Wednesday, mainly in the cities of Basel, Bern and Lucerne. They combine ancient and arcane traditions — and a lot of drinking — with Fasnachters wearing wildly colorful, hilarious and often macabre costumes and hordes of masked musicians playing traditional “guggenmusik” with piccolos, brass instruments and drums while parading non-stop through the medieval streets. The roots of the Basel Fasnacht trace back to ancient Celtic and Germanic origins and practices relating to ancestor worship, fertility rites, and the expulsion of winter. It’s a party like no other and one of the strangest sights you’ll ever see.

After visiting Switzerland for a long winter week and I sadly headed home to California and our Sierra Nevada mountains. Skiing in Switzerland is not just a pastime, it’s a religion. Being able to experience this is should be on any traveler’s bucket list. My memories of epic Alpine skiing and scenery followed by the fanatical partying and parading in Basel’s Fasnacht still feels unreal, like a dream, a really intense dream, and I can’t wait to visit again and say “Uela” or “hello” in Romansh or “Gruetzi” in Swiss-German to Switzerland once again.

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Love Actually Film with Live Orchestra Dec 16 Nightmare Before Christmas Film with Live Orchestra Nov 30–Dec 1

Cirque Nutracker Dec 5–6

Holidays with the Symphony features music, family events, movies, and fun surprises all December long.

Visit sfsymphony.org/holiday for a full lineup.

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10/27/23 10:16 AM

C A L E N DA R ON THE SCENE DINE

COURTESY OF BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA

AND

OUT ABOUT

Community Ongoings A lighted boat parades, ICB Winter Open Studios, holiday craft fairs and other excellent events.

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Blind Boys of Alabama at Mill Valley's Sweetwater Music Hall, Dec. 12

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E D I T E D BY D O N N A B E R RY G L A S S

CALENDAR Marin Ballet Nutcracker

Hot Holiday Shopping Fairs DEC 1–31 Cedars Squared Even though Artist Within — A Cedars Gallery in downtown San Anselmo sells paintings, sculptures, jewelry, cards and more year-round, the nonprofit’s holiday show features a new batch of pieces made by Cedars artists, each of whom receive 50% of the proceeds of each piece. cedarslife.org DEC 2 Holiday Craft Fair This yearly artisan holiday craft fair at the Mill Valley Community Center draws in crowds to revisit their favorite vendors and search for uncommon goods. Free, ample parking sweetens the deal. cityofmillvalley.org DEC 2–3 Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair

DEC 2–3 Winter Open Studios The ICB building in Sausalito hosts 100+ artists — sculptors, painters, photographers, fiber artists, jewelers, sound installation and more — who open their studios to share their booming creative energy with guests. icbartists.com

For those eager to get a head start tackling their holiday shopping lists, the rst weekend in December o ers plenty of local artisan fairs and craft shows geared to discovering one-of-a-kind treasures and gifts.

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Locally hand-made jewelry, fashion accessories, wreaths, and ornaments crafted of glass and wood are just a few of the options at this 40+ year old fair, famous for its appearances by the Muir Beach Quilters and the Muir Beach Volunteer Fire Department. muirbeachartsfair.com

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ARTS, THEATER & LECTURES THROUGH DEC 17 It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Show The beloved American

holiday classic comes to captivating life as a live 1940s radio broadcast in which the story of idealistic George Bailey unfolds as he considers ending his life one fateful Christmas Eve. rossvalleyplayers.com DEC 6–24 A Christmas Carol Who says ghosts are only for Halloween? Charles Dickens’ classic tale of redemption is larded with specters of the otherworldly and nagging sort in an adaptation by Paul Walsh and Carey Perloff. act-sf.org DEC 9–10 Marin Ballet’s Nutcracker

Lavish Victorian sets and elaborate costumes for 125 dancers are just part of this classic ballet production, performed for the first time at the new Marin School of the Arts. A festive holiday boutique enlivens intermission. marinballet.org DEC 14–24 The Christmas Ballet A

signature mix of ballet, contemporary, Broadway jazz and tap from Smuin keeps the energy flowing at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts. smuinballet.org

DEC 15–17 Million Dollar Quartet Christmas Journey back in time when

newcomers (and soon to be legends) Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley came together to celebrate the holidays. Inspired by a true story, this rock n’ roll musical rings with sounds of the season and the chart toppers that made the group famous at the Curran Theater. broadwaysf.com

DEC 18–JAN 7 Potted Potter Harry Potter

aficionados will fly off their broomsticks with laughter at this parody of the story of the boy-who-lived at San Francisco’s Palace of Fine Arts Theatre. Combining all seven books into 70 hilarious minutes, the show even includes a live Quidditch match. pottedpotter.com

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COMEDY DEC 2 Sister’s Christmas Catechism It's

"CSI: Bethlehem" in this holiday mystery extravaganza, as Sister takes on the mystery that has intrigued historians throughout the ages: whatever happened to the Magi's gold? It’s a hilarious retelling the story of the nativity, as only Sister can do. marincenter.org

DEC 29–30 Brad Williams The comedian whom Robin Williams once called “Prozac with a head” has the uncanny ability to win over audiences with his humorous observations of disability, relationships, sex and race. cobbscomedy.com

FILM

MUSIC DEC 2–3 Holiday Choral by Candlelight

The Marin Symphony plays both traditional and contemporary holiday music set to candlelight in the beautiful setting of St. Raphael’s Church, with both instrumental and choral performances. marincounty.org DEC 8–9 Holiday Spectacular The San

Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus presents its annual holiday concert at San Francisco’s Sydney Goldstein Theater, offering an experience that blends the enchantment of the season with the transformative power of compassion and community. sfgmc.org

DEC 12 The Blind Boys of Alabama

Recognized worldwide as living legends of gospel music, this quintet crosses multiple musical boundaries with their remarkable interpretations of everything from traditional gospel favorites to contemporary spiritual material. sweetwatermusichall.com

DEC 16 A Charlie Brown Christmas

The Adam Shulman Trio pays tribute to Bay Area jazz legend Vince Guaraldi and reprises the iconic soundtrack he created for Charles M. Schulz’s 1965 holiday classic, A Charlie Brown Christmas. sfjazz.org DEC 22 The Sun Kings This Beatles

tribute band has a repertoire of more than 150 songs spanning the band’s entire epoch. The band members perform in Fab Four style with precise attention to tight harmonies, fancy guitar work and a solid backbeat. ranchonicasio.com

DEC 31 New Year’s Eve with Petty Theft

Run down your dreams for a spectacular 2024 with Tom Petty tribute band Petty Theft along with opening act Black Cat Bone at HopMonk Tavern in Novato. hopmonk.com

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DEC 1–25 Another Hole in the Head

Science fiction, fantasy, horror, and other new independent films from around the world will be shown at theaters around the Bay and on Zoom. ahith.com

DEC 2–6 Met Opera: Mozart’s The Magic Flute This whimsical film production of

an abridged English-language version of Mozart’s The Magic Flute makes a special encore presentation during the holiday season. larktheater.net

OPENS DEC 15 Poor Things From filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos and producer Emma Stone comes the incredible tale and fantastical evolution of a young woman brought back to life by a brilliant, modern-day mad scientist. See it at the Smith Rafael Film Center in San Rafael. rafaelfilm.cafilm.org

MUSEUMS SEPT 30–JAN 7 The de Young Open The second triennial of this juried community art exhibition will feature submissions by artists from the nine Bay Area counties: Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa,

COURTESY OF BROADWAY SF

A Million Dollar Quartet Christmas

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San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano and Sonoma. famsf.org THROUGH DEC 23 There Is Magic Here

MarinMOCA’s national juried artist exhibition envisions a future built on collective effort and understanding, and celebrates our unwavering capacity to find solace, beauty, and meaning in the face of adversity. marinmoca.org

EVENTS DEC 5 Welcome Winter Night Get into the holiday spirit at this evening holiday event at the California Academy of Sciences for all ages, with live reindeer viewing, cookie decorating, magic shows and full access to all of the Academy’s exhibits. calacademy.org DEC 8–31 Sausalito Gingerbread House Tour & Competition This family-friendly

holiday tradition never fails to inspire and delight. Merchants and businesses will display their creations throughout downtown, including Bridgeway, Caledonia Street, "Old Town," and the north end of town. Maps are available at participating merchants or online. sausalito.org DEC 9 Lighted Boat Parade Among a

month of events in Sausalito, including a gingerbread house tour (Dec 1–31) and a Jingle Bell 5K and Brunch (Dec 10), brightly decorated boats cruise the Sausalito harbor, followed by a fireworks show in keeping with the spirit of the season. winterfestsausalito.com

Luxury Kitchen and Bath Design Showroom

THROUGH DEC 17 Great Dickens Christmas Fair The Cow Palace

will be transformed into a maze of Victorian streets in old London town, laden with shops bedecked in holiday finery and bursting with handmade treasures, dance parties, sing-alongs and hundreds of costumed characters. dickensfair.com

707.769.1646 · NBKBDESIGNCENTER.COM · 1110 PETALUMA BLVD N., PETALUMA, CA 94952

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DINE

BY C H R I S T I N A MUELLER

What’s Hot This December Openings, updates and Marin’s freshest restaurant news.

WHAT'S

HOT

Mill Valley

MADRONA BAKERY

The space that formerly housed Bootjack Woodfired, Tartine Bakery and Small Shed Flatbreads is once again a bakery.

Chef and Mill Valley resident Nicola Carey and business partner Gemma Edward Aron opened their bakery and café in mid-September. The built-in, wood-fired Alan Scott oven, affectionately nicknamed Elvira, is responsible for the burnished crust on sourdough bread, baguettes, pain d’epis (a pull-apart bread) and roast chicken. The opening menu includes coffee and tea, a range of pastries, cookies and a snack board. 17 Madrona St, Mill Valley; 415.915.9120; madronabakery.com San Rafael

Tiburon

Larkspur

More than two years after receiving approvals and now run by the second generation of Servinos — brothers Natale and Vittorio — along with their parents, Servino returned to its original location on Tiburon’s Ark Row. The trattoria is back in its original ark, with the same cozy vibe and bespoke window details. The new enoteca/wine bar steps into the yellow ark with a few indoor tables, a wraparound bar and a heated patio.

114–116 Main St, Tiburon; 415.435.2676; servino.com

Chef Christopher Kostow, who earned three Michelin stars at The Restaurant at Meadowood, revives his family’s pre-Ellis Island family name at a “Jew-ish” deli at Marin Country Mart. Like the original in Napa, handmade sourdough bagels, pickles and house-cured and smoked meats are present in corned beef and Swiss or pastrami and cole slaw sandwiches, while the matzo ball soup is flavored with lemongrass and chiles. 1813 Larkspur Landing Cir, Suite 18, Larkspur; loveskideli.com

SERVINO

LOVESKI

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Sana’a Coff e

After opening the first location in San Francisco in May, Bay Area businessman and Yemen native Sadeq Alaqel is set to open a café in downtown San Rafael in November, featuring authentic Yemeni coff es and Adani tea seasoned with cardamom, ginger and cinnamon. Lattes, cappuccinos and other coff e styles, as well as pastries and traditional Yemeni sweets, will also be available. “I love to share my motherland country coff e (sic) that originated in Yemen during the 14th century,” Alaqel says. 1146 4th St, San Rafael; sanaahousecafe.com

COURTESY OF LOVESKI

Loveski

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CPSHADES.COM 214 Strawberry Village, Mill Valley, CA 94941 • 415.992.6535 1842 Fourth Street, Berkeley, CA 94710 • 510.201.9205

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DINE Burmatown AsianBB

Though the menu remains largely the same (that tea leaf salad! Those bao!) at the new location down the street from the original, the addition of a grill boosts the menu with dishes like kalbi ribs or smoked salmon collars. A long bar on one side of the room serves wine and beer and the front windows slide open for easy access to a large

patio. 18 Tamalpais Ave, 415.985.5060; burmatown.com $

Flores Mexican

With an emphasis on regional Mexican dishes and avors sourced from family recipes, the menu is based on California seasonality and revolves around gluten-free masa.

The daily-made tortillas are a highlight. 301 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.500.5145; oressf.com BB

HH

Burmatown

Marin Joe’s Italian

A mainstay for over 50 years for a reason: the menu calls to you with garlic bread, a calamari sandwich and mesquite-grilled prime rib. Sautéed classics of the Italian-American canon as well as oysters doré and pastas have withstood the test of time. 1585 Casa Buena Dr, 415.924.2081; marinjoesrestaurant. com

Zinz Wine Bar Californian

Perry’s

Locals pop by the petite wine bar for its cozy atmosphere and an eclectic array of boutique wines and craft beer, all available for takeout. A short menu of prosciutto-wrapped

dates, charcuterie and cheese boards is perfect for enjoying during a Friday night tasting event. 207 Corte Madera Ave, 415.927.9466; zinzwinebar.com HH $

FAIRFAX Barefoot Cafe American

Chef Tony Senehi’s all-day cafe is known for California-inspired dishes made from local, organic ingredients. Pear almond pancakes and eggs Benedict (ask for “the Brady” to get lox) are popular at breakfast, while a BBQ pulled pork sandwich is a hot seller at lunch. 1900 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.460.2160; barefootcafe.com

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Sorella Ca e Italian

Run by sisters Sonia and Soyara, Sorella serves fresh Italian with a northern influ nce. Favorites include the cioppino, butternut squash ravioli, pollo alla Sorella and the garlic bread. 107 Bolinas Rd, 415.258.4520; sorellaca e.com $

BB HH

Stillwater Californian

Fairfax native Margaret Ruiz and her life and business partner, David, bring the bounty of the county to the table.

Appetizers and salads feature local cheeses, oysters, and produce while the cheeseburger with Stemple Creek beef and the miso-glazed black cod have dedicated followers. 23 Broadway, 415.524.8478;

stillwaterfairfax.com HH

GREENBRAE KENTFIELD Guesthouse Californian

Jared Rogers, the former executive chef of Picco, heads up the kitchen, partner$ing with restaurateur Dustin Sullivan on this 110-seat space. Look for well-executed California cuisine with weekly specials like Prime Rib on Mondays and fried chicken on Sundays. 850 College Ave, Kent eld, 415.419.5101; guesthousemarin.com HH

Half Day Cafe American

Tucked away in a setting of intertwining ivy and large open

COURTESY OF PERRY’S (BURGER); COURTESY OF BURMATOWN

CORTE MADERA

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AGO Projects, Mexico City Altman Siegel, San Francisco Andrew Kreps Gallery, New York Anthony Meier, Mill Valley Berggruen Gallery, San Francisco Casemore Gallery, San Francisco Catharine Clark Gallery, San Francisco Crown Point Press, San Francisco David Lewis, New York David Zwirner, New York Demisch Danant, New York Fergus McCa−rey, New York Fraenkel Gallery, San Francisco Galerie Max Hetzler, Berlin Gallery FUMI, London

Gladstone Gallery, New York Haines, San Francisco Hauser & Wirth, Los Angeles Hosfelt Gallery, San Francisco Hostler Burrows, New York Jenkins Johnson Gallery, San Francisco Jessica Silverman, San Francisco Karma, West Hollywood Lebreton, Monte Carlo Lehmann Maupin, New York In celebration of its tenth anniversary the fair launches FOG FOCUS, an invitational designed to showcase art by young artists as an integral part of San Francisco’s

Marianne Boesky Gallery, New York

George Adams Gallery, New York Johansson Projects, Oakland

FOG_1223_FNL.indd 1

Gió Marconi Gallery, Milan

Commonwealth and Council, Los Angeles

Et al., San Francisco

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS fogfair.com

Marc Selwyn Fine Art, Beverly Hills / Marian Goodman Gallery, New York

Crèvecœur, Paris

January 17, 2024 Preview Gala Benefiting the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

Magen H Gallery, New York

creative ecosystem.

CULT Aimee Friberg, San Francisco

JANUARY 18-21, 2024 FORT MASON CENTER

LUHRING AUGUSTINE, New York

Mendes Wood DM, New York Michael Rosenfeld Gallery, New York Micki Meng Gallery, San Francisco NILUFAR, Milan Nino Mier Gallery, Los Angeles

Jonathan Carver Moore, San Francisco

Ornamentum, Hudson

OCHI, Los Angeles

Pace Gallery, New York

Schlomer Haus Gallery, San Francisco

pt.2 Gallery, Oakland R & Company, New York Rebecca Camacho Presents, San Francisco S94 Design, New York Sarah Myerscough Gallery, London Shulamit Nazarian, Los Angeles Talwar Gallery, New York Tina Kim Gallery, New York

10/27/23 8:31 AM

OUT AND ABOUT DINE

windows, this cafe is the quintessential breakfast nook and is also open for brunch and lunch, including co ee drinks, pastries and much more. Enjoy a casual daytime meal inside or out on the patio. 848 College Ave, Kent eld, 415.459.0291; halfdaycafe.net

Café Zoetrope is located in the majestic Sentinel Building, a San Francisco historic landmark in the heart of North Beach, and the home to Francis Ford Coppola’s American Zoetrope Studio (film production company where the origin of the Café name comes from).

CAFEZOETROPE.COM • (415) 291-1700 916 KEARNY STREET, SAN FRANCISCO

BB

$

LARKSPUR Left Bank Restaurant French

This Parisian-style brasserie by Chef Roland Passot has been serving the community for more than two decades. Whether on the patio, bar or in the elegant main dining room with a huge replace, it’s a fun experience. The menu features authentic French cuisine utilizing seasonal, local and organic ingredients.

507 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.3331; leftbank.com

Perry’s American

Perry’s on Magnolia has the same classic American cuisine, bustling bar and warm service and personality the San Francisco original has always been famous for.

Plentiful outdoor dining options. It’s bar is a perennial best of the county winner.

234 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.1877; perryssf.com BB

Pizzeria Picco Pizza

This family-friendly parlor next door to Picco o ers Californiain uenced Neapolitan pizzas cooked in a wood-burning oven.

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Fresh mozzarella is pulled in-house and the menu also features organic salads, antipasti and Straus Dairy soft-serve ice cream.

Heated outdoor seating is available.

316 Magnolia Ave, 415.945.8900; pizzeriapicco.com $

R’noh Thai Thai

This cozy place with a patio by the Corte Madera Creek has a reputation for fresh avors. It’s all here, from curries and Thai barbecue to noodle dishes and the classic tom kha (coconut lemongrass soup).

For an indulgent treat, try the fried sweet potato appetizer. 1000 Magnolia Ave, 415.925.0599; rnohthai.com $

Rustic Bakery Californian

The Marin-grown bakery is known and loved the world over: Pope Francis famously requested Rustic Bakery atbread and crostini when he visited the U.S. in 2015. Organic bread and pastries baked fresh each morning and salads, sandwiches, and soups make this a staple. 2017 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.461.9900 and 1139 Magnolia Ave; 415.925.1556; rusticbakery.com $

MILL VALLEY Bungalow 44 American

The bustling bar is ideal for savoring a seasonal cocktail or an order of the house’s

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JUNG K OH / HARMONY

ROMAN TRATTORIA STYLE CAFÉ AND WINE BAR Each dish has a story!

JILL BENTON ARCHITECTS famous kickin’ fried chicken. The one-dollar happy hour oyster program still operates from 5–6 p.m., Monday–Thursday and the heated outdoor patio is a town hot spot.

44 E Blithedale Ave, 415.381.2500; bungalow44.com

Floodwater Californian

Order a handcrafted “Gold Rush” (Old Forester bourbon, local honey, lemon) at

crab, may have also been familiar fare for passengers of the Mt. Tam gravity car for which this saloon was named. 38 Miller Ave, 415.888.2108; gravitytavern.com BB

Benton Architects has been practicing residential architecture for over 25 years, serving San Francisco, Marin, Sonoma and Napa. Whatever your style or budget, we would love to help you create your dream home.

HH

Harmony Chinese

A warm, inviting place to enjoy classical and innovative Cantonese fare with the house specialty, hand crafted dim sum. Local favorites include savory Peking duck with

BENTONARCHITECTS.COM • 415.381.1183 • SAUSALITO, CA

Harmony

the long 20 seat bar and watch the game on ve huge 4K TVs while noshing on pork belly steamed buns, or dive into Shorty’s Tall Reuben. The Patio features multiple re pits.

152 Shoreline Hwy, 415.843.4545; fl odwatermv.com HH

$

Gravity Tavern American

JUNG K OH / HARMONY

steamed tea buns, juicy Shanghai dumplings and unique bites like minced lamb with radicchio cups. The famous signature beef is a de nite must. 401 Strawberry Village, 415.381.5300; harmonyrestaurant group.com

With ingredients suited to re ect 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 house-made egg pasta, pork belly and

Hook Fish Co Seafood The wood-ceilinged dining room feels like a boat’s galley and the spot’s popular outdoor beer garden adjacent to Mill Valley’s Proof Lab at Tam Junction has 13 taps, but the draw at this counter-service joint is the seafood.

The transparent supply chain means you

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can enjoy the poke, sh and chips or sh tacos knowing where and on what boat your meal came from.

254 Shoreline Hwy; hook shco.com

Piatti Ristorante and Bar Italian

A replace lounge and open format concept invites lingering over refreshed menu items

Watershed Californian Gather ’round the re pit in front of the restaurant at the Lumber Yard or hang out at the long bar for a predinner glass of wine before sampling one of the many dishes curated to refle t the bounty of Marin. The Stemple Creek Ranch burger and fresh pastas are matched

Creekside Pizza & Tap Room

such as house made ravioli with lemon cream and citrus gremolata, roasted mushroom pizza with taleggio fonduta and black tru e oil or roasted salmon with artichokes and Calabrian chili.

625 Redwood Hwy, 415.380.2525; piatti.com

Tamalpie Italian

With views of Mt. Tam from the covered, heated patio, this spot known for its local sourcing also features two replaces and a full bar serving craft cocktails, wine and beer. The di erence is in the dough, small batch, housemade and gluten-free.

477 Miller Ave, 415.388.7437; tamalpiepizzeria.com

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with a bevy of simply prepared, easy to share dishes.

129 Miller Ave, 415.888.2406; watershed.com

NOVATO Perry’s American

Epic burgers and cocktails, excellent service, signature blue-and-white gingham tablecloths — expect all of those and more here at Perry’s northernmost location. 224 Alameda Del Prado, 415.506.4212; perryssf.com BB

The Speakeasy American

In addition to the 10 beers on tap, cocktails range from the 1920s to the 2020s. A

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shareable, tapas-style menu includes grilled maitake mushrooms, escargot and mini street tacos. 504 Alameda del Prado, 415.883.7793; thespeakeasynovato.

HH $ com

Toast American

With outdoor dining and spacious inside seating at Hamilton Marketplace, large parties, families and everyone else dives in on comfort food favorites like corned beef hash, buttermilk pancakes and at dinner, chicken schnitzel and shrimp scampi. 5800 Nave Dr, 415.382.1144; toastnovato.com $

Trailhead American

Order breakfast, shareable snacks, paninis, salads, and Equator co ee drinks at the counter before grabbing a seat on the all-day café’s shaded patio. The baked goat cheese is a standout and pairs with the 10 local beers and two wines available on tap or from the craft can program.

127 San Marin Dr, 415.493.6902; trailheadnovato.com $

SAN ANSELMO ROSS The Baan Thai Cuisine Thai

Known for its mango sticky rice, crispy corn cakes and The Baan Thai salad, new menu items like fresh spring rolls and steamed dumplings and old favorites such as the tom kha soup entice with fresh avors and

just the right amount of sweet heat. 726 San Anselmo Ave, 415.457.9470; baanthaimarin.com

Comforts Cafe American

Established in 1986, Comforts has a cozy sit-down cafe, serving breakfast, lunch and weekend brunch.

Besides the famous Chinese chicken salad, other winners are the stu ed pecan-crusted French toast, chicken Okasan (nicknamed “Crack Chicken” by fans), Korean BBQ ank steak and Wor Won Ton soup. 335 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.9840; comfortscafe.com BB

$

FINE EYEWEAR OPTIMIZE YOUR WORLD

MILL VALLEY | 415.388.8262 WWW.MARINOPTOMETRY.COM

E Y E E X A M I N A T I O N S : T U E S D AY - S A T U R D AY

Creekside Pizza & Tap Room American

A perennial Best of the County winner known for their artisan pizzas, hearty sandwiches, avorful pastas and fresh salads, Creekside o ers plentiful gluten-free and vegan options too. Their copper bar with a 40-handle selection of craft beer (including gluten-free beer), plus wine and kombucha on tap. 638 San Anselmo Ave, 415.785.4450; creeksidesa.com

Cucina sa Italian

Open for lunch, weekend brunch, and dinner six nights a week, come by for homemade pastas, seasonal salads, and wood- red pizzas that strike a balance between southern Italy and Northern California. Don’t skip the happy hour

Holidays are coming…

Color & updos Airbrush tanning Lash extensions Makeup applications

Gift certificates available Open 7 days a week Mill Valley 415.388.0988 Union Street 415.409.1500 www.milvali.com

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from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. from Tuesday to Friday, either!

510 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.2942; cucina-sa.com

Flour Craft Bakery American

Along with artisan gluten-free and an assortment of vegan pastries, breads, and special-occasion cakes, this petite cafe serves a lunch menu of so-called fancy toast and big green salads with seasonal air. Customer favorites include oatmeal chocolate chip cookies, decadent cinnamon rolls, ourless hazelnut brownies, and the bakery’s signature granola. 702 San Anselmo Ave, 415.453.3100; flo rcraftbakery.com BB

$

Madcap

Californian

Discover California’s hidden gems with Local Getaways App Stay, play, dine, and get inspired BB BB

Chef Ron Siegel’s contemporary art- lled space is known for its urban edge. The vegetable-centric menu, available as a tasting menu, incorporates seafood and Japanese techniques in colorful dishes like trout with baby bok choy, purple daikon and dashi that are bold, balanced and bright. The restaurant earned a Michelin onestar rating in 2019 and again in 2021 and 2022.

198 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo, 415.453.9898; madcapmarin.com

Marché Californian

Into the former Marche aux Fleurs space comes Marché from owners Darren and Alicia Banks.

Their focus on

DOWNLOAD NOW!

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seasonal ingredients in plates of avocado toast with Urfa chile, shishito peppers with togarashi, house made gnocchi with shiitakes, and corn and duck con t with green lentils is Californian all the way.

23 Ross Common, Ross; 415.925.9200; marchemarin.com N

Marinitas Mexican

This sister restaurant of Insalata’s continues to ourish as a bastion of creative Mexican and Central and South American cuisine. Not your typical south-ofthe-border spot, they serve up top-notch margaritas and Latin lusciousness. 218 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.454.8900; marinitas.com BB HH

$

Taco Jane’s Mexican

The full bar features plentiful tequila and mezcal selections and its regional Mexican cuisine includes Oaxacan mole, sh tacos and vegetarian options. Black Gold salsa arrives with complimentary chips and is created from charred blackened tomatoes and roasted chilis.

Enclosed patio seating is available year round.

21 Tamalpais Ave, 415.454.6562; tacojanes.com BB HH

$

Valenti & Co. Italian

The bright yet cozy indoor space and warmly lit back patio are ideal environments for authentic Italian dishes made with local ingredients. The menu changes daily but look

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11/8/23 11:20 AM

The Valentine’s Ball Foundation, Brayton Purcell LL P and Thirty-Seven Wines Present

JOIN US!

20

24

FEBRUARY 10, 2024

MARIN CIVIC CENTER AT 5:00PM

Benefiting North Bay Children’s Center, Side By Side, and Godmothers of Catholic Charities St. Vincent’s School for Boys https://nbcc.ejoinme.org/mvb2024

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OUT AND ABOUT DINE

NOW ACCEPTING WINTER AND HOLIDAY FASHIONS

for the carpaccio of beef, the pan-seared Pekin duck and chef Valenti’s famous tower of triple chocolate love at dessert. 337 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.7800; valentico.com

SAN RAFAEL • Gucci • Theory • Prada • Vince • Chanel 401 Fourth St, San Rafael EncoreConsignment.com Open Mon–Sat 10–4 415.456.7309

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Cafe Arrivederci Italian

brick oven is available at breakfast, too (gluten-free crust is available), and a changing menu of daily o erings.

The buttermilk-fried chicken sandwich with house made chipotle aioli has a dedicated following and the Boston clam chowder might just convince a few New Englanders to relocate. 901 B St., 415.234.8414; redroosterbrick oven.com

Cafe Arrivederci has been located in the heart of San Rafael for the past 27 years. $ BB HH N $ $ BB HH Chef Tito is proud to serve fresh homeVin Antico American made pastas and Vin Antico, “where dishes from all over passion meets Italy. Visit the expanthe plate,” serves sive dining room, seasonal marketfull bar, garden patio inspired cuisine and private rooms for like stone-ovenparties and events. 11 baked fl tbreads, G St, 415.453.6427; handmade pastas cafearrivederci.com and organic salads, all innovatively N prepared. Black sesame-crusted tuna Cafe del Soul is classic, even betCalifornian ter with an Il Capo Healthy options negroni. 881 Fourth St, become addictive 415.721.0600; at this eatery that vinantico.com now has locations N BB in Tam Junction and San Rafael. Once you stop in for the deliciously fresh SAUSALITO quinoa wrap, you’ll want to return to Angelino Restaurant try the chipotle rice Italian bowl. 1408 Fourth St, Multiple generations 415.457.5400; of the Ancona family cafedelsoul.net create an authentic $ Italian eatery with handmade pastas and seasonal antipasti Red Rooster Brick that has showcased Oven American the cuisine of the Roasted in the Campania regionfor brick oven, then more than 20 years. brushed with sweet 621 Bridgeway, and spicy garlic 415.331.5225; sauce, Red Rooster angelino wings are a mustrestaurant.com order at an all-day Italian American restaurant with a sprinkling of Asian Fish Seafood avors. A thin crust It has been said that pizza pulled from the this restaurant and sh

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market launched the sustainable seafood movement, making it the ultimate place for freshly caught, unobjectionable fare. Order any of the day’s o erings — the menu changes — aily but usually has a variation of sh tacos, ceviche and grilled sh. 350 Harbor Dr, 415.331.3474; 331 sh.com

Poggio Italian

Vitello sliced excruciatingly thin and topped with lemon and tonnato sauce is a singular dish in the hands of executive chef Benjamin Balesteri who creates Northern Italian fare using local and Italian ingrdients.

777 Bridgeway, 415.332.7771; poggiotrattoria.com BB

The Spinnaker Seafood

Chef Phil Collins excels at preparing seafood, and it shows in the beautifully plated presentations like a classic shrimp Louie salad or linguini with clams. Set right on the water with sweeping views of San Francisco.

100 Spinnaker Dr, 415.332.1500; spinnakersa sausalito.us

executed by chef Harrison Chernick.

The upstairs lounge boasts late-night service (until 12 a.m.), a billiards table, a gas-powered replace, and a live DJ on weekends.5 Main St, 415.366.4088; bungalowkitchen.com BB BB BB BB BB HH

The Caprice Californian

Expansive bay views from every seat are just one of many charms after an extensive remodel.

The revamped menu of well-crafted comfort food from land (bone-in let mignon, Colorado lamb chops) and sea (gnocchi with crab, abalone dore).

2000 Paradise Dr, 415.435.3400; thecaprice.com BB

The Bungalow Kitchen Californian A lively social lounge and restaurant from chef Michael Mina and Brent Bolthouse boasts epic views and a menu of seasonal California fare

Order your Holiday candles now.

Available in 4, 8, and 16 ounce sizes.

Malibu Farm Californian

The latest SoCalto-NorCal culinary import features a home-grown and sustainable ethos in dishes like fennelrubbed boneless half chicken and soyginger hanger steak.

Look for yuzu butternut squash linguine with za’atar coconut cream, pizza with a zucchini crust, plus a lobster roll on a hot dog bun. 9 Main St, malibu-farm.com

Celebrate the season with organic ingredients from Good Earth

BB

Petite Left Bank French

A smaller version of the Larkspur original features an all-day menu of French bistro classics. A notable wine list, artisan craft cocktail menu, and spirit-free beverages round

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615.540.9331 northbaycandleworks.com IG: @ northbay_candleworks

HH

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SOY + COCONUT WAX CANDLES HAND POURED IN MARIN COUNTY one batch at a time...

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OUT AND ABOUT DINE

BB

Tiburon Tavern Californian

Pacific Catch

out the lively experience.

1696 Tiburon Blvd, 415.910.1010; petiteleftbank tiburon.com N

$

Salt & Pepper American

A locals favorite for classic American fare. From morning’s Bloody Mary and eggs Benedict through

Food service at the Lodge at Tiburon is in the hands of Luna Blu’s Renzo and Crystal Azzarello who run the Tiburon Tavern bar, restaurant and other on-site eating opportunities.

Executive chef Selvin Vicente is on board to handle the ow from breakfast and brunch through

Point Reyes Station, 415.663.0303; sidestreet-prs.com

dinner. 1651 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.3133; lodgeattiburon.com

BB

BB HH

$

BB Brunch BB

Station House Cafe

WEST MARIN

American

Side Street Kitchen American

LEGEND

The ne-casual eatery led by chef Aaron Wright (formerly of Tavern at Lark Creek) serves favorites like rotisserie chicken, and pork-belly BLTs as well as wholesome vegetarian fare. This is one of the few spots in West Marin that serves gluten-free beer. The cozy patio is shaded and dog-friendly.

60 Fourth St,

Date Spot BB

$

HH

N

$Dogs Welcome HH

Known for their $ HH Full Bar BB N house made Grab ’n Go popovers, this BB $ HH N cozy cafe is also HH Happy Hour N recognized for BB $ Kid-friendly BB HH $ HH fresh oysters, New Hot Spot N grass-fed burgers, N and an “everything $ Meal under $20 BB $ HH fresh, local and BB $ HH Outdoor Seating homegrown” ethos.

BBPrivate HH N $Party Room N Dining in the garden BB $ HH RoundNTables is as popular on weekdays as on N Watch the Game the weekends.

BB $ HH Worth the Hype 11285 CA-1, Point N Reyes Station, 415.663.1515; stationhousecafe.com BB

$

ERIC WOLFINGER / PACIFIC CATCH

lunch’s clams bouillabaisse and hamburger to dinner’s crab cakes with jalapeño dipping sauce and skirt steak tacos. 38 Main St, 415.435.3594; saltandpepper tiburon.com

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Now booking Lighted Yacht Parade Charters in multiple Bay Area locations Oakland Yacht Parade - December 2 Sausalito Yacht Parade - December 9 St. Francis Yacht Club Parade - December 15 San Rafael Yacht Parade - December 16

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@liveitupcharters (415) 747-4733

info@liveitupcharter.com

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BY D O N N A B E R RY G L A S S

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3 Marin Humane’s Tails by Twilight Funds Youth Programs Nearly 300 animal lovers gath-

ered on September 23 for Tails by Twilight, Marin Humane's annual gala. Held on its Novato campus, guests enjoyed cocktails and a gourmet vegan meal while raising critical donations for the organization's many programs through silent and live auctions.

More than $600,000 was raised during the course of the evening, with more than half of that going toward the fund-a-need for youth programs.

1 Kathy Zirker-Smith, Mo DeLong and Jackie Broad; 2 Peter Mark and Elizabeth Needham; 3 Drs. Edward Haack, Milinda Loomer, Hannah May and Tanner May.

Pennies from Heaven Brings in Big Dollars to Support Marin’s Homeless

On October 7, St. Vincent de Paul Society of Marin hosted its annual gala, Pennies from Heaven, at the exquisite Meadow Club. The elegant, sold-out event was attended by 215 benefactors and raised more than $600,000 for St. Vincent de Paul’s programs and services feeding the hungry and housing the homeless in Marin County.

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1 Mike McGuire and Kathleen Woodcock; 2 Christine Paquette and Brian Victor.

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RICHARD WHEELER/MARIN HUMANE; COURTEST OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY

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ANDREW FAULKNER paintings | prints

ICB WINTER O P E N STUDIOS DEC 2-3 - 1 1 am-5pm s tu di o 2 59A “Marina” - 60” x 48” - oil on canvas www.andrew-faulkner.com insta: andrew_faulkner_art atys-marin-magazine-dec-23.pdf

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Marin Foster’s Blues and Brews Supports Foster Youth and Caregivers Marin Foster Care Association’s annual Blues & Brews extravaganza was held the weekend of October 6 and 7 at Pacheco Ranch Winery in Novato. More than 360 guests attended the sold-out fundraising event that consisted of a paella themed dinner, live music, a live auction and an inspiring program. The $375,000 raised during the weekend directly supports Marin foster youth and their caregivers.

1 Riley and Ashley Hurd; 2 Ros and Blair Volckmann, Colin and Penny Luce, KK and Mike Sample; 3 Victoria Cressman winning her live auction item.

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CHRIS CONSTANTINE PHOTOGRAPHY (MARIN FOSTER); TOMMAY LAU (MVFF)

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Mill Valley Film Festival Draws 30,000 Attendees Maestro was the closing night lm for the 46th Mill Valley Film Festival, capping o 11 days of lms, panels, parties and musical performances at the annual autumn showcase which drew 30,000 attendees this year. Additionally, MVFF Education reached over 5,600 students across the U.S. with virtual programming, in-person screenings, and school visits in Marin, San Francisco and the East Bay. Ron Sutton, Gayle Janin, Cord Je erson, Jeff

adley and Ally Drake

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P R OM OT I ON

Eva Claiborne Beauty & Wellness Longer nights and slower time are hallmarks of winter. During this season of reflection, gratitude is bountiful, and at Eva Claiborne Beauty & Wellness, first and foremost Eva and Eva Temby (Evike) her daughter, want to acknowledge and thank all their loyal clients for the love and support they’ve given through the years and wish them a warm and cheerful holiday season.

FACIAL FOCUS Between covering up due to dropping temps and endless events, at no other time is your face more front and center than during winter. Fortunately, Evike is concentrating on the Hungarian facial to get your holiday skin on track. This 50-minute facial is individualized for your skin type and incorporates a Hungarian Gold Mask that will leave your skin rejuvenated and ready for the spotlight.

TEENAGE SKIN SOLUTIONS Teen facials primarily address acne, but Eva and Evike go above and beyond simple treatments. Expect blue LED light therapy — which destroys acne-causing bacteria, has anti-inflammatory properties, and can reduce redness — in addition to cleansing, exfoliation, extractions, facial masks, and targeted TITOK Naturals serums to heal angry skin. Clients will also receive a custom regimen to follow as well as guidance specifically related to your needs.

HYDRABODY AND HYDRAFACIALS Dry air makes this season especially hard on skin, so give it the care it craves! Eva is continuing to work on many anti-aging therapies to do just that, including HydraFacials and HydraBody. These four-step, medical-grade resurfacing treatments include cleansing, exfoliating, extracting, and hydrating the skin with serums that are infused into pores with the HydraPeel Tip, a pen-like device. The benefits of this treatment benefit many parts of the body including the neck and décolleté, arms, legs, back and hands to resolve many issues, from texture to dryness.

Evike (left) and Eva (right)

MICRONEEDLING AND BEYOND Another one of Eva’s specialties is microneedling.

This treatment reduces wrinkles, scarring, smooths out imperfections and helps create younger, healthier looking skin. Microneedling has a positive effect on hyper-pigmentation as well as acne scars, traumatic scars and stretch marks.

If you’re looking for a low downtime option for glowing skin, this is a sure bet.

86 B Main St, Historic Ark Row, Tiburon CA 94920 415.435.4326 | www.tiburonskincare.com

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MARIN HOME

M A K E OV E R S R E A LTO R I N S I G H T S D E TA I L S

Panoramic Perch A new home on a steeply sloped property in Strawberry o ers stunning views of San Francisco and the bay.

BY LOTUS ABRAMS PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUCAS FLADZINSKI

A two-story deck boasts views of the bay and San Francisco.

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H OM E BACKS TO RY

The level front area of the property provides space for an outdoor seating area.

Details For many people looking to build their

dream home, it can be challenging to envision the potential of an undeveloped lot. A successful tech executive who lived in Mill Valley couldn’t help but wonder about the possibilities, however, when she passed an empty lot in Strawberry out jogging one day. The property offered stunning views of Tiburon, Belvedere, San Francisco and the bay, but it was heavily forested, and only a small portion of the site was flat before sloping steeply downward toward the bay. Upon inquiry, she also learned that zoning restrictions required that any home built on the lot must not block the view corridor to San Francisco of the neighboring properties.

Looking for guidance, she reached out to architect and contractor Jason Langkammerer, principal at San Francisco-based AT6 Architecture + Design Build, whom she had worked with on a previous remodel. “We went

WHERE

out there with old-school preserve, and Langkammerer Strawberry ladders, lasers and compasses began the design process.

WHAT to assess the site, and we “The main architectural chalNew construction also used Google Earth,” lenge was how to design an WHO Architect and contractor Langkammerer says. “We interesting form in only 14 Jason Langkammerer, determined that only a porfeet of height,” he says. “We principal, AT6 Architecture tion of the house could be looked at several different + Design Build built on the flat area, and the roof orientations and roofline rest would need to be built designs, but in the end, we down the hill.” Adding further complicaended up taking a simpler approach that tions, trees would need to be strategically made just one big statement — a large slopremoved, and the zoning restrictions ing shed roof with wood underneath.” mandated a 14-foot height limit.

The 4,430 square-foot, four-bedroom, Langkammerer was confident he could three-and-a-half bath home that now tackle the challenges, however, and build stands on the property is built on two a home that would match his client’s levels. The main entry level features the vision and aesthetic — modern with rustic living, dining and kitchen areas, the pritouches. “Once we knew we could build a mary bedroom, two offices, a guest suite, house on the hillside that would capture powder room and laundry room, while the views, she dove in, and we started the lower level includes two bedrooms, a working,” he says. family room and bathroom. At the back The team carefully considered which of the house, a substantial two-story deck trees to remove, and which ones to overlooks the bay and San Francisco.

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Right: A slatted walnut screen divides the living room from the entryway.

Below: The dining area opens to a wraparound deck with views of the bay.

Bottom: A seating area adjacent to the kitchen and dining area features a built-in bar.

Inside, materials were intentionally chosen to strike a balance between modern and rustic. Wood elements like heavy yet sleek trim-less hickory doors, mahogany window frames, a slatted walnut screen dividing the living room and entryway, and wide-plank European white oak flooring impart a rustic sensibility, while the home’s off-white walls and ceilings and simple and clean lines are decidedly modern.

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Spatially, the common area of the home flows naturally from the living room to the kitchen and dining area, which offer panoramic views and access to a large deck. A small seating area featuring a built-in bar divides the two spaces. “I always strive for varying levels of intimacy, so you have sight lines across the space, but you also have places where you feel like you’re enclosed in a smaller area,” Langkammerer says. “The kitchen isn’t visible from the entryway, for example, and the living room feels separate from the entry because of the divider, so each area feels distinct even though they're all covered by the same ceiling.”

In the kitchen, dark-stained walnut cabinetry and a dual-level island with an integrated seating bar and waterfall countertop make a dramatic statement, while a walk-in pantry provides plenty of extra storage space. Downstairs, a family room with another built-in bar offers access to a covered deck that frames the views.

“The house is perfect for entertaining,” Langkammerer says.

When the project was complete, Langkammerer’s client retired soon after moving in. “It was really about building a home that would be a great sanctuary for her,” he says. “She just loves being in the house.”

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The Sherfey Group #1 in Sales Volume and Units Sold in Stinson Beach in 2022

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Christmas Light Atop Angel Island Its history is sketchy, but it’s (almost) always there.

At 788 feet, Mt. Livermore is the highest point on Angel Island, which is the largest island in San Francisco Bay. The entire island is a California State Park.

You can see Angel Island and its Mount Livermore from much of Tiburon, Sausalito and Mill Valley; as well as from Highway 101 when approaching or exiting the Golden Gate Bridge.

So you’d think a holiday light shining atop Angel Island in December for the past 70 years would have a clear-cut historical story line. Think again. An early account dates back to the Army having a presence on Angel Island and some enlisted men, with nothing better to do, covered a large wooden star with red, white, blue and yellow lights and placed it at the peak of

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what was then known not as Mt. Ida, not Mt. Livermore (adding to the mystery, no one seems to know where the name Mt. Ida originated).

Another popular version dates to the 1950s and a crew of electricians being sent to Angel Island in December to deactivate the island’s Nike missile transformers.

Unable to finish prior to the holidays, they went ashore after leaving a crew member behind to guard the job site. Naturally, with not much to do, the guy got lonely so he jerry-rigged a string of lights, fastened them on a pole and stuck it atop Mt. Livermore.

One telling has not just a string of lights on a pole, but many strings of lights cascading down to form a Christmas tree. Whatever.

Then, with the founding of the Angel Island Conservancy in 1975, a form of holiday lighting on Mt. Livermore became traditional. Until, that is, 2001. That’s when 15-feet of soil — which had been diminished by the Nike missile site — were bulldozed to the top of Mt. Livermore, thus restoring its original profile. That’s the good news. The bad news is the pole and its holiday lights were lost in the process.

And what’s a holiday story without a Santa Claus? In this story, Santa is George Lucas, then of Industrial Light and Magic in San Rafael, who, after only one dark holiday, restored Mt. Livermore’s holiday brilliance. But the Angel Island fire of 2008 destroyed all of Santa’s (err, George’s) work. However, in this well-documented happy ending, in 2009 the Angel Island Conservancy, with significant help from PG&E, installed an energy efficient solarpowered LED beam that has been shining over southern Marin ever since. And this year, for sure, the light will flash on Friday, December 1 and every night thereafter until 2024 arrives.

JASON WEISBERGER

LOOKING BACK

BY JIM WOOD

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C E L E B R AT I N G

40 YEARS C A L DW E L L S N Y D E R G A L L E RY

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ED MOSES 1926-2018 In a career that spanned seven decades, Ed Moses is known for his restless intensity and ever evolving style and considered one of the foremost postwar abstract expressionist painters.

Bob Green & Charlotte Bernstrom, codirectors. Photography Douglas Sandberg © 2023

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Robert Green Fine Arts, established 1969, exhibits primarily painterly, abstract expressive work by painters that thoroughly take advantage of the sensually evocative nature of color and form.

154 THROCKMORTON AVENUE, MILL VALLEY CA 94941 • PHONE 415 381 8776 • ROBERTGREENFINEARTS.COM GALLERY HOURS: FRIDAY - SUNDAY 11-5, MONDAY - THURSDAY BY APPOINTMENT

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