Marin January 2023

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Welcome Home to Harbor View

70 LUXURY HOMES IN BODEGA BAY

Enjoy the beauty and serenity of the Northern California coast from the privacy of your home at Harbor View. Nestled among the rolling hills above picturesque Bodega Bay, these beautiful new homes afford spectacular ranch and ocean views. With meticulous attention to detail, each home features the highest quality Wolf appliances, GRAFF fixtures, spectacular themed lights, and unique finishes. Explore 16 unique floor plans on 70 scenic lots, you’re sure to discover your ocean home dream.

CONTENTS

FEATURES

30

Pandemic Pivots

Thriving local businesses and individuals who embraced new opportunities in the midst of chaos.

36

Just Bobby Celebrating photographer Bob Minkin’s new book that features 192 pages of Weir onstage and offstage with the Grateful Dead, Further, Wolf Brothers, Dead & Company and others.

42 Love Stories Whether beneath towering redwoods in Mendocino County or in a tropical Hawaiian garden, these couples’ wedding day celebrations were a perfect reflection of their lives together.

CONTENTS

IN MARIN

23

Currents

The Marin City-Sausalito Tunnel Art Project and a GoFundMe for a formerly homeless entrepreneur looking to help others.

26 New In Town

A Hawaiian poke shop opens in Sausalito, doughnuts and Vietnamese specialities arrive in Mill Valley and more.

28 Fairfax Makes a Difference, Again A small group of motivated locals’ work on a bill addressing hate symbols becomes law for the more than 39 million California residents after January 1.

OUT & ABOUT

64 Calendar

A roundup of what to do in Marin and beyond.

70 Dine

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

76 On the Scene

Snapshots from events around the county.

MARIN HOME

81 Backstory

Reorienting a home on a tight corner lot created a much-needed sense of arrival, improved interior flow and enhanced indoor-outdoor living for a family in Ross.

TRAVEL

59

Go: Bay Area Spa and Wellness Hotels

The San Francisco Bay Area is brimming with rejuvenating lodgings.

61

Appellations

Fun facts about three hot wine regions.

KASIA PAWLOWSKA (TUNNEL); ADAM WILLIS (HOME)

Journey Wonder FULL SM on the world’s best places, to the world’s best places. Wake up to a new view every morning. Dine in a new restaurant every evening. Rise or rest to rejuvenate. This is Relaxed Luxury SM .

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©2022 Celebrity Cruises Inc. Ships’ registry: Malta and Ecuador.

PRESIDENT / OPERATIONS

Nikki N. Wood nwood@marinmagazine.com

Editorial

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Mimi Towle

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Kasia Pawlowska

DIGITAL EDITOR Jessica Gliddon

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Paula Phommounivong

DINING, CALENDAR AND FEATURE WRITER Christina Mueller

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lotus Abrams, Donna Berry Glass, Bob Minkin, Dana Rebmann, Zack Ruskin, Anne-Christine Strugnell, Jim Wood Art

ART DIRECTOR Lisa Hilgers

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Alex French CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Bob Minkin, Adam Willis

ICONIC CRAFTSMANSHIP

Louis M. Martini Winery is a cornerstone of Napa Valley, offering an internationally acclaimed portfolio of Cabernet Sauvignon. Since 1933, the Martini family has played an integral role in establishing Napa Valley as one of the world’s premier wine regions, with each successive generation helping to set new standards in the vineyard and cellar. Take a peek into the history of Martini with the new exclusive Underground Cellar Experience. Descend into a beautifully adornded 85-year-old barrel cellar that pays tribute to the Martini family’s old-world heritage and learn about the history of the winery. Featuring revered small-lot releases and library winees paired with inspired culinary creations f rom Chef Aaron Meneghelli.

(707) 968-3362

254 Saint Helena Hwy S, St. Helena CA louismartini.com/visit-the-winery

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270 MEDIA / GROUP PUBLISHER

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270 Media Founders

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NEW YEAR, NEW US

New Year’s is one of my favorite holidays. It's a celebration of reflection, and revisions, resulting in slight course corrections towards that elusive North Star. In Japanese business, this concept is called kaizen. For Hawaiians, being pono means always choosing the most thoughtful path for oneself and the community. I’m sure every culture has their own belief system to keep us humans on track. Here at Marin Magazine, for nearly twenty years, our North Star has been to elevate and create community. In looking through a variety of our former January covers, I remember vividly the discussions for choosing each of them. The bold blue and bright orange painting of a paper parasol in 2006, and the January 2010 cover with art that reflected a post-recession mood. This year’s cover — created by art director, Lisa Hilgers — is clean and simple, with a nod to our county’s first lady, Mt. Tam, featuring our original tagline, Extraordinary Living. A little backstory: In 2005 we were unable to acquire the trademark “Marin Magazine,” but did get “Marin Extraordinary Living” as a placeholder. After identifying ourselves and becoming known as Marin Magazine in the market for five years, we were granted Marin Magazine on the principal trademark register in 2010.

As with every goal, the journey is often equally as fun as the results, agree? In early December, I co-hosted our first Local Getaways retreat with longtime friend Kristen, at the newly refurbished Outrigger Reef hotel in Waikiki. “Joy” best describes how I felt watching our guests during their surf lessons. Getting into the ocean more often also happens

to be on my “improvement list” for 2023. After the retreat, I spent the day on the North Shore of Oahu watching my daughter, Grace, and my boyfriend, Bryan, out in the surf. Enough observing! I grabbed my snorkel and fins, dove into the blue Pacific, giddy, with a sense of my own personal kaizen. “Turn around and swim back to the beach” bellowed a lifeguard through his megaphone. The second time I heard the message I was navigating the waves and shallow reefs, and realized he meant me. I endured the walk of shame past sunbathers, some caught my eye and smiled, others looked away. It’s best not to argue with the lifeguards, it’s their job.

Amazingly, minutes later, my old friend Bianca Valenti emerged from the water holding her board. Bianca has created a name for herself as one of the top big wave riders in the world — I interviewed her for the magazine before her career took off in 2013, and we’ve been friendly ever since. We both laughed about the fact that I got called out by the lifeguards. Grace and her friends also enjoyed the moment. “I knew it was you!” she said, flipping a humiliating moment into a good laugh.

In this issue we celebrate lots of new Marin beginnings; four couples pledging their lives together in their own unique way; nearly ten vocational pivots, to either stay in business, or start something new, and Anne-Christine Strugnell’s first person account of how a handful of people in Fairfax passed a law that ensures individuals who spread terror using symbols are punished properly. Also, a complete redesign of our pages — we can't get stagnant!

As we enter 2023 I am truly grateful for being able to live amongst amazing people in this extraordinary place for the past 25 years.

Mimi Towle, Editor

PROMOTION

LETTERS

Bay Area events you’ll want to attend

MARIN VALENTINE’S BALL

February 11, 5:00 p.m.

Marin Civic Center, 1400 Fifth Avenue, San Rafael

Join an elegant evening of cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, fine dining and auctions, followed by dancing to the music of Wonderbread 5. The ball will be emceed by Emmy Award winning radio and TV personality Liam Mayclem and honor community leader Natu Tuatagaloa. It supports the critical work of North Bay Children’s Center, the Godmothers of Catholic Charities St. Vincent’s School for Boys, and Side by Side.

$250

nbcc.ejoinme.org/2023mvb

December Cover

Thanks so much for the background on the December cover. There is a unique California component of the March 3, 1943 edition of the Saturday Evening Post. As part of the “Freedom from Want” theme, the Post included a piece written by Carlos Bulosan on want here at home. His book America Is in the Heart, published just a few years later, became a classic of Asian-American literature.

— Dr. Paul G. da Silva, Larkspur

I love the Marin Magazine Season of Giving cover. What an amazing job and thanks so much for including Ben and Poggio — happiest of holidays to you this season!

— Amy Svendberg, Mill Valley

Shared Experiences

Thank you Marin Magazine, Kristen Jones Neff and Mimi Towle for allowing us to share our story (Seasons of Life, December 2022). You all are spectacular.

— Zachary Cohn via Instagram

This was a very well done story, Marin Magazine! Thank you for including my dad’s journey.

— Megan Keane Tuggle via Instagram

My mom who had dementia passed away in October 2019, only a few weeks before Covid hit the scene. We feel blessed that she didn’t have to go through the horrors of the early pandemic.

— Lisa Consani via Instagram

This touches my heart deeply as I took care of my mother/best friend for 10 years as she aged gracefully at first, and lived many years with this tragic and incredibly sad disease.

— Debbie Walsh-Faubel via Instagram

Looking Back Love

My wife and I are thrilled to see your history page back in the magazine, Jim. The photo of the Sequoia Theater from 1953 is priceless. These could be kids today goofing around, excited to go to the movies on their own. The marquee read, "Free matinee today for kids 6-60, Courtesy of Pacific Telephone, Alexander Graham Bell" — what a great historical snapshot. Please keep 'em coming!

— Bryan Harrison, Sausalito

CONNECT WITH US

One of our top Instagram posts last month was by Reino Cruz, @reinocruzphotography. “Born and raised here in Marin, I’m amazed when I can still find new spots, new compositions for my photography. As a photographer that shoots mostly with my Sony system, I do enjoy flying a drone — respectfully. Finding a good clearing that was approved for flight, I ascended over the San Pablo Strait, bordering the San Rafael Bay. Adjusting my angle towards our beloved Mount Tamalpais, my suspicions were confirmed, and the sky began to catch fire. Out of the dozens of shots I took from 390’ in the air, this was the one that exhibited the true beauty of this evening with the flat water reflecting the unbelievable color in the Marin sky. I rushed home to see what I had gotten, and couldn’t help but to stare at the screen for a good while before beginning my workflow or processing. Grateful for this place we call home." Want to see your photo in print? Tag us @marinmagazine with your best snap.

Where to Eat in Marin

Google, Yelp, DoorDash, Uber Eats — the quest for food is neverending, and we’re here to help. Next time you’re looking for the top picks in the county, check out our revamped Where to Eat pages. From pizza to burgers, dog-friendly establishments to game night hot spots, we cover it from Novato to Sausalito. Scan to see the goods.

Call for Submissions

Do you have a unique job? A vast collection? Or are part of a special group? If so, we’d love to hear from you! Send details to editorial@marinmagazine.com for a chance to be featured in an upcoming story.

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Winner

In our December issue we asked readers to recreate our cover inspiration — Norman Rockwell’s iconic Freedom From Want painting — and we received! Congratulations to Cheryl Smith and family for this glorious homage. We hope you and your loved ones enjoy more happy meals together courtesy of Mill Valley’s Floodwater.

It’s a thousand things, big and small.

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Their lives change.

Housing situations improve. Enrollment in higher education occurs. Savings accounts are opened. Child care is accessed. Bills are paid. On time.

And stress levels go way down.

How do we know? They told us.

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CURRENTS

Tunnel of Love

A public art project connects two communities in Sausalito.

BY KASIA PAWLOWSKA

T he mural celebrating the unification of Sausalito’s and Marin City’s public schools is complete.

After two years of fundraising, and planning and negotiations with the County and Caltrans, the mural celebrating the unification of Sausalito’s and Marin City’s public schools is complete. The project — officially titled the “Marin City-Sausalito Tunnel Art Project: All Our Children United” — is located along the walkway under Highway 101 on Donahue Street. Work began in mid-October with power washing, followed by the application of a neutral base coat. An array of sunrise-to-sunset colorful bands were painted across the entire length of the tunnel at the end of the month. Grants from Sausalito Beautiful and the Sausalito Foundation enabled Raylene Gorum, a Sausalito artist and architect, to develop the design, which also features a pattern of bright blue, child-size handprints across the surface. The final glow up? Anti-graffiti coating, and improved lighting to brighten the path for the school children, pedestrians and cyclists who traverse it daily.

A Food Truck With a Mission

Some say that food is the way to their heart. For Sandra McMillion — a San Rafael resident who was once homeless — cooking good Southern food is her gift, and sharing it with the homeless community is the way to her heart. She launched Two Pots and a Pan from her kitchen, where she cooks meals weekly and distributes them to local homeless communities. With the winter season in full swing and more people to feed, Sandra is looking to expand her business into a food truck. Earlier this year, a GoFundMe was started to fund her mission. Sandra grew up in an abusive household in Arkansas and later escaped to California. “I ended up in the Tenderloin on drugs, living on the streets and in prison for years,” she says in her GoFundMe video. “Then, someone gave me a chance to turn my life around. In rehab at the Ritter Center in San Rafael, they taught me the life skills I needed to recover from so much trauma,” she adds. Funds raised from the campaign will cover the cost of purchasing a food truck, insurance, permits, and operating expenses, so Sandra can directly serve the community and be selfsustaining.

— PAULA PHOMMOUNIVONG

Scan the QR code to help.

Sandra McMillion

Raylene Gorum

If you’re starting off the new year with a list of financial resolutions, one of the first steps is organizing your goals and developing a path to achieve them. Whether you want to save up for a big purchase, pay off debt, sell your business, or put more away for your retirement or college savings for a child or grandchild, we can assist with building a strategy that can make your financial goals a reality using our five-step retirement planning process. Together, let us help you preserve or build your wealth, plan for your future, and protect your legacy.

New in Town: Poke, Donuts & Banh Mi

A Hawaiian poke shop opens in Sausalito, doughnuts and Vietnamese specialities arrive in Mill Valley among other openings in Marin.

EAT & DRINK

Sweetly Cali Downtown San Rafael welcomed chef/owner Glenda Sagucio and owner Maria Sagucio’s shop last fall. Sugar-free, housemade nut butters (pistachio, hazelnut), panna cottas (12+ flavors, including ube and mango), Belgian Liege waffles, croissants and cookies as well as toasts (avocado, salmon, Caprese) are available alongside Broadcast Coffee drinks, chai and lemonade. Keto options are available. 1109 4th St, San Rafael; 415.717.8557; sweetlycali.com

Gilligan’s Poke Shop

For months, owner and chef of Gilligan’s Poke Shop, Zane Chess, walked into Sausalito Market and asked owner Dhruba Phandey for a turkey sandwich with mustard from the market’s non-existent deli. Fed up by Chess’s impertinence, Phandrey threw down a gauntlet: “why don’t you do something?”

Along with life and business partner Jeffrey Konen, Chess accepted the challenge and soon launched a poke shop, opening a counter inside the market in late October. Born and raised on Oahu, Chess leaned into his knowledge as an outrigger captain, fisherman and catering chef to pull together a tight menu of freshly made pokes, transforming the once empty “deli” into a Hawaiian food hub. “I want to make this into a typical poke bar like you’d find in Hawai’i,” says Chess, with house made kimchee, tofu and fish spread alongside other freshly prepared Hawai’ian goodies. For now, look for flavors like spicy ahi, shoyu and lumi, which Chess says is made “real Hawai’ian style,” without avocado or jalapeño, but with roasted kukui nuts, sesame seed oil and onion. 46 Caledonia, Sausalito; gilliganspokeshop.com

Bob’s Donuts Into the space that once housed Bamboo Hut in Tam Junction, San Francisco’s long-running donut shop arrived in late last year with the same family, the Ahns, running the dough show. The usual suspects (raised glazed, apple fritter, cake crumb), familiar to Bob’s ardent fans, will be on-hand, alongside butter croissants, cinnamon rolls and The Big Donut (it’s really big) with your choice of toppings. 252 Almonte, Mill Valley; 415.776.3141; bobsdonutssf.com

Banh Mi Zon Owners and San Rafael residents Hong Phan and Luan Nguyen plan to open the second location (the first is in San Rafael) of their Vietnamese sandwich, rice bowl and salad shop in the former Subway location in Tam Junction mid-December. “We home cook everything (sauces, mayonnaise, meat, broth, even the bread,” said Phan, who is planning a self-service kiosk in Mill Valley. In addition to the regular menu, look for short rib pho, crab spring rolls, and house made desserts that are planned for this location only. 256 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley; 415.888.8384; banhmizonus.com

COURTESY OF GILLIGANS'S POKE SHOP; COURTESY OF BANH MI ZON

Banh Mi Zon

BY ANNE-CHRISTINE STRUGNELL

Fairfax Makes a Difference, Again .

How a group called NOAH (Name, Oppose, and Abolish Hate), did just that.

I’m that person ahead of you at Chipotle who tells the cashier that I’d like a fountain soda but I don’t need one of their plastic-lined cups, because I have right here (sound of a heavy metal sword being pulled triumphantly from sheath) my own infinitely reusable fairtrade produced stainless steel bottle. And I don’t need plastic utensils because of course I always carry my own bamboo cutlery set wrapped in a napkin that was cut from a torn t-shirt.

I’ve become something of a climate/sustainability pro since I quit the tech world a few years ago. Now I volunteer for nonprofits — notably San Rafael-based Resilient Neighborhoods — that educate households in how to reduce their carbon footprint and live more sustainably. I coach teams of people, conduct webinars, write articles, and try to drop the right suggestion at the right time and then when I think something has landed (this is key) I shut up about all the other things they should all be doing.

I like to quote (and listen to myself quoting) Christiana Figueres, the Costa Rican diplomat who was an architect of the worldwide

Paris climate agreement. She said, “What makes you feel better quickly is actually to engage in a positive contribution so that you bust through this myth that individual actions don’t count. And you begin to realize the world is only made out of individual actions. It does count. It does add up.”

But I wonder: if there were no mics around and I asked Figueres whether she really believed that, would she hesitate? Because I am having trouble believing it. Knowing action is the antidote to despair, I have chosen to live as though individual actions matter. But some days I think I’m just blowing smoke.

The climate crisis is taking swipes at us now, breaking this record and then that, and I can hear the accelerating hoofbeats of the four horsemen of the apocalypse — war, famine, disease, death — plus a few undreamed of by the prophets, such as extinction, pollution, and mass die-offs caused by wet bulb events. Meanwhile I dispense my friendly tips and it feels like I’m talking about how it’s important that the deck chairs on the Titanic be plastic-free.

When I get together with my fellow climate activists an inconvenient truth hangs in the air. As the author-turned-activist Mary Pipher observed, if we all tell the truth about climate change we’d just end up in each other’s arms sobbing. So last spring, when I met up with one of my climate colleagues, we skirted the topic.

Erica and I met outside to reduce the risk of Covid, but we hadn’t expected it would be another day of record-breaking heat. We greeted each other from a distance of five feet and sat in the

shade in summer dresses and sunglasses.

It was too hot to fall sobbing into each other’s arms, so Erica said, “You know what? I’ve got involved in something else. Do you remember that there was an incident in Fairfax in November 2020, when a misguided young man walked around the downtown area posting Nazi swastikas with a caption that said ‘We Are Everywhere’?”

I hid a smile at the term “misguided young man.” I know where Erica, who is Jewish and liberal, stands on swastikas, and I also know that she tries her best to be conscious of the power of language. “Misguided” was a skillful word.

And yes, I recalled the story, partly because I’d seen a video taken by a different young man, Noah, who had followed the misguided one around, ripping the stickers off and hounding him with some skillful speech of his own: “Why you putting up Nazi stickers? Don’t be putting that up in my fucking town.… Not in Fairfax, bro.” A police officer was flagged down and the misguided one was detained by the police.

And then I lost the thread of the story. But Erica picked it up.

“I couldn’t believe it, but we learned that there’s no law against what he did,” she said. In January 2021, the Marin DA issued a statement that they weren’t going to prosecute the misguided man. Case closed.

But not in Fairfax. Fairfax is proud of its position on the far left edge of the U.S. It even lies to the left of the rest of liberal-leaning Marin, where we refer to it as “Farfax” or as a bumper sticker recently informed me, Mayberry on Acid. According to the Visit Marin website, Fairfax is “a community that prides itself on retaining its quirky, small-town atmosphere.”

Resident Mark Solomons started a moveon.org petition asking the DA to prosecute, and when it accumulated more than 1,000 signatures the DA chose to hold a community forum addressing a rise in hate incidents. Solomons reached out to people who had said on NextDoor that they wanted to do something about this and brought them together to the first meeting of the group that named itself NOAH Marin, which was both an acronym for Name, Oppose, and Abolish Hate and also a call-out to the young man who had followed the misguided one around town.

At the forum NOAH Marin understood why the DA had refused to prosecute. Existing law provides a complex and unequal set of fines and prison sentences to “a person who places or displays certain symbols, marks, signs, emblems, and other physical impressions, including, but not limited to, a Nazi swastika, hangs nooses, or burns

or desecrates crosses or other religious symbols on private and nonprivate property, as specified, with the intent to terrorize a person.”

But the misguided man had posted on public property, and while indiscriminate posting of hate symbols in public is considered a hate incident, it doesn’t meet the definition of a hate crime unless there’s violence or vandalism and a terrorized victim. This meant there was no “crime” for the DA to prosecute.

Of the original NOAH Marin group, soon there were only five who were to stay with the project until the end, among them Mark Solomons and my friend Erica.

“All of us who remained were Jewish,” said Erica. “It was personal. To have something like this take place in our community just hit too close to home.”

NOAH Marin delved into the details and learned Nazi swastikas were legal everywhere — cemeteries, schools, libraries, and even on flags held by neo-Nazis marching down the street. NOAH Marin decided to change California law. The small group had determination on its side, plus some legislative expertise. It wrote a revised version of the law that made two key changes: first, the rewrite expanded the areas, both public and private, in which the use of such symbols in order to terrorize would be considered a crime. Second, the rewrite would apply the same penalties for all symbols when used to terrorize, with first-time offenders potentially receiving up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. This was an effort to correct inequalities in the existing law, which applied different penalties depending on the symbol, with a burning cross resulting in the stiffest penalties and the hanging of a noose — a particularly terrifying symbol for African Americans — receiving the most lenient sentence.

When Erica and I spoke on that hot spring day, NOAH Marin was in the midst of reaching out to local officials and state electeds. One, Rebecca Bauer Kahan, granddaughter of Holocaust survivors and State Assemblymember in the district where the misguided man lived, decided to champion the bill.

In late September I heard from Erica that the bill — AB 2282 — had passed the California State Senate. It will become law for the more than 39 million California residents after January 1, 2023.

“There were only five of us, but we made it happen,” she said when I congratulated her.

Scan for the full story.

I have realized that the world is only made out of individual actions,”

I tell people. “It does count. It does add up.

”

“

Aiden and Gabe Cohen, standing on their regenerative farm in upstate New York.

If the past few years have taught us anything, it’s to always expect the unexpected. For Marin businesses, the Covid-19 lockdown presented a remarkably difficult challenge. Thankfully, our local proprietors were up for the task, be it Helen Russell’s Equator Coffees locations in Mill Valley and Larkspur or Susan Hauser’s Now Power Yoga in Corte Madera. In all cases, both community support and a willingness to shift as necessary in the face of profound obstacles would ensure their businesses’ enduring success.

Showing remarkable fortitude, stories from local owners who’ve made it work are further complimented by the inspiring words of folks like Alexis Cohen, who took the pandemic as a sign to completely change her line of work. Moving from Marin to upstate New York to become a farmer, Cohen is but one of several of the subjects featured below to recently make a full 180’ career pivot — a choice that has allowed her to be “literally on the ground level, building [our] dream.” To celebrate the arrival of a new year with fresh possibilities, we’re toasting a selection of thriving local businesses and individuals we hope will inspire readers to continue pursuing their chosen paths as well!

The New Year Brings Hope and Opportunities

BY ZACK RUSKIN

180' PIVOTS Alexis Cohen Farmer

Pandemic Pivot?

Prior to the lockdown, I was working in education, focusing on teaching academics through farming while building a farm. When Covid hit, I shifted into teaching entirely outdoors in different locations throughout Marin with a small, consistent educational pod. I wanted to be part of the solution — not to be reaction-based or kicking into survival mode. So, with an invitation from friends, I followed the water to upstate New York to participate in the regenerative farming movement. I left to find and build our farm.

It's worth noting with farming you don't jump in like you would if you were hired as a teacher or event planner. So, for us, this is a long game, when you take into consideration the fact that establishing rich soil, food forests, orchards, crops, herds, and flocks can take seasons to years to arrive at maturity, you realize your goal in farming doesn't use the same barometer for success our culture is used to.

One thing revealed to me over the past few years is we are never stuck. Over time, this has become one of my family’s mantras. We say it as a reminder as we navigate choices. It's good to take chances. If something is not right — or a beacon of light draws you toward another possibility — be the change and go for it. It feels good flexing the muscle of being alive.

Next? Our status update is after a year and a half of designing a compost system, building soil, stewarding chickens, and creating a local food network on an extraordinary but temporary homestead, we have found our forever farm in the Western Catskills. We will bring some of our homemade soil, some of our chickens and all our energy and heart. We know this will become a hub for generations of families to find health and joy and boundless wonder; where we nurture the earth and share what we create. tomorrowisaplace.com

Kevin Tinto, Author

Prior to 2020, I was straddling my twenty-year old sports marketing business and writing books. I had published two books of a planned trilogy: Ice and Ice Genesis. As a result of everything being shut down, I mothballed my marketing business, including the e-mag and newsletter, which was still enjoying a large audience. That gave me time to finish the third book: Ice Revelation.

Watching Elon Musk re-imagine Twitter reminds me of those long nights writing after an even longer day with clients. It's like hitting a plot roadblock and wondering aloud, "Why am I doing this? This is a huge waste of time!" Everyone will have these thoughts along the way to a new career. Don't get sucked into a cascade of depression while pushing through to your dream career. My marketing background was crucial to my sales success. I understood

I was developing a brand, not just authoring a book. Legacy and indie writers expect their novels to jump off the shelves — never happens on its own. Keeping control of your rights and pricing control, plus your ability to promote through reader e-mags like BookBub puts you in control.

Next? By referencing the Ice Trilogy, I got invites to research giant offshore wind turbines, salt mines, strategic hydrogen storage, and undersea submersibles for my next novel. The trilogy sold more than 600,000 copies to date. The audiobooks, narrated by Pamela Almand, have won many audio awards. The trilogy is being developed for a film/television project with Ken Atchity as producer. My next novel, Vortex, will be out this summer. To my continued shock and delight, I am a full-time author. writingthrillers.com

Selene Rosem, Stylist

When the Covid shackles started to loosen and the holidays were approaching, I decided it was time for me to go out on my own full-time to start Styling By Selene. The pandemic made me realize that life is short and precious and that my full potential and passion blossoms when I call the shots, working for myself, my way. All my life, I was asked by friends and family alike for styling advice and closet organization, so I have always had that background and experience. Fashion changes your mood and the world

around you. Creating my own company is definitely a different world, but since my husband is a CPA, it's really not much of a jump. He set up the entire company and handles all the taxes and government stuff that scare the wits out of me!

Next? Fully committed to my new business, I look forward to seeing what clients enjoy more, going through their closets to remove and donate clothes that don’t work anymore, helping them with day-to-day style or getting ready for a big gala or even Burning Man.

stylingbyselene.com

Pandemic Pivot?

Pandemic Pivot?

Far right: Selene Rosem BLINK, INC. (TINTO); SELENE ROSE (ROSE). RIGHT PAGE: MONICA CHANG (CHANG); JORDAN ROSEN (RUSSELL)

FOOD

Helen Russell Co-Founder/Executive Chair Equator

Coffees, est. 1995 Various locations

Pandemic Pivot?

Because we lost so much of our office and restaurant business, our wholesale focus shifted to grocery stores and direct-to-consumer web sales. Our subscription program was improved to help teach folks brew better in their kitchens. We also have a much better web and social media presence now. Our cafe customers were overwhelmingly kind to our team and understanding when we had to change hours or close stores. They accepted long wait times when we had a smaller staff

and visited our cafes while also making our coffee at home. Coffee brings people together and is better when shared. These isolating years continued to show how powerful this part of coffee culture is.

Next? I can lift my head up from the daily grind of 27 years of running a business, take a breath and be proud of all we've accomplished. We've bought fair trade coffee since 1999, been a B Corp since 2013, and were the first LGBT+ owned business to be named the national small business of the year in 2016. I feel like Equator is just beginning! The next generation of people in our roasting, wholesale, retail and marketing departments continue to push the envelope of sustainable business. equatorcoffees.com

Monica Chang Founder/Chef

SAN Korean Cafe, est. 2022 San Rafael

Pandemic Pivot?

Since I was “forced” to stay in one country while my daughter was off at university, the commercial kitchen I was operating out of became increasingly more expensive and crowded as ghost kitchens started to pop up everywhere. It became much more difficult to navigate the kitchen and find prime hours to manufacture my product. In November, I opened Marin County’s first Korean food establishment: SAN Korean Cafe. Opening a cafe in Marin can shave months off your life in the best of times; trying to do so during a pandemic requires you to have the patience of Job. I felt the need to lead by example and start living again. There seemed to be opportunities and I was cautiously

optimistic that the pandemic would wane away. I would absolutely encourage others to pivot and go for it but to do so as a calculated risk. Do your due diligence. Ask yourself what is the worst thing that can happen and if your answer doesn’t scare you then you probably can handle the twists, turns and learning curves of what your passion and true self is asking of you. Also, always have a plan B, and maybe even a C. As Einstein once said, “In the midst of every crisis, lies great opportunity.”

Next? I opened SAN Korean Café, following my passion and vision with patience, compassion, and perseverance. Now the real work begins — be careful what you wish for! sankorean.com

Tony Adams Chef/Owner

Mill Valley Pasta Co., est. 2020 San Rafael

Pandemic Pivot?

When I was furloughed from my job as a cooking school director at a local hotel I missed connecting with people at the cooking classes I had taught and demonstrations I had done at local farmers markets. The people of Marin County responded so much more than I could have ever hoped with word of our pasta and story passing through neighbors and platforms like Facebook and Nextdoor. Local media outlets such as Marin Magazine also contributed and we felt then, and feel now, especially lucky to have made our voice and product heard in a place where there’s so many incredible artisans, shops, and products being made and sold.

Next? We’ve expanded to a sixth yearround farmers market and are exploring wholesale opportunities. We're increasing our lineup of not just pastas, but also sauces and pasta-adjacent provisions (and some provisions we just love making, like jams) in our factory store and online marketplace . millvalleypasta.com

YOGA

Temple Schauble Co-Owner/Teacher Metta Yoga, est. 2017 San Rafael

Pandemic Pivot?

After just two weeks of classes and a successful opening in San Rafael, Covid forced us to move all of our classes online and outdoors. We all put in a huge effort to keep things going, and there was a silver lining: we made the most of the opportunity to practice outdoors in beautiful Marin. We developed great partnerships with other local businesses. We have a strong community focus at Metta and the pandemic only reinforced that. It did feel amazing when we could invite students back and are thrilled

to see our community thriving after all this time and we’re incredibly grateful to all our students who have stood by us.

Next? Livestream yoga remains popular even in this post-pandemic era and is a whole new arm of our business (we also have recorded classes on Vimeo available). The Metta family is also taking on Cloudbreak Yoga Studio in Sausalito — the synergy is perfect. [Metta co-owner] Amy [Greywitt] and the former owner of Cloudbreak have been friends for many years. The best part for our students is that all our memberships and packages are valid at all three locations so they can move interchangeably between the studio locations and experience a diverse range of teachers and events.

mettayogastudio.com

COURTESY OF MILL VALLEY PASTA COMPANY (PASTA); EMILIE BERS

Middle: Temple Schauble

Beth Toomey Owner/Instructor

Embrace Yoga, est. 2012 San Rafael

Pandemic Pivot?

Between Covid and a flood in my studio, you would think I would have given up. When Covid hit we had to get creative. This meant training instructors to Zoom, finding outdoor spaces and even switching locations. The support from our community was amazing including legal help and a GoFundMe campaign. Unfortunately, we did not qualify for the Paycheck Protection Plan (PPP) loans because our teachers were subcontractors as opposed to employees. What was most

striking to me was how people really missed being in the company of other people. There were many members who literally cried when attending their first class since the start of Covid. It was very emotional. Yoga is not only about strengthening the body. It is mental therapy.

Next? Navigating Covid — both emotionally and financially — remains a challenge. Masks on? Masks off? What risk does the latest variant pose for my students and my business? We want to expand our class offerings, as we are still at about 50% and restart our youth program. I can’t wait to see what the new year will bring. We'll be hosting an open house and community gathering on Sunday, January 22 to celebrate the new year, health, and happiness. embraceyogamarin.com

Susan Hauser

Owner/Teacher est. 2015

NOW Power Yoga Corte Madera

Pandemic Pivot?

Despite being forced to shut down, I still had to pay overhead related to my business. It was financially frightening as a single mother with two college age kids. I learned how to Zoom, which I offered free so our community could be together, but it was not the same as being in the studio. Hopefully Zoom will never replace in person classes again. Reports I read claimed that the lockdown measurements created more harm to the population than good. The health and wellness industry should have been left open as government tracking and tracing data showed that gyms and wellness studios were not vectors of Covid illness. The loss of income and emotional stress for over a year can never be made up.

Next? Luckily, because Marin residents are invested in their health, my business has bounced back. I had the attitude throughout the forced financial shutdowns that I would keep supporting my community, even though I didn't make money. nowpower.yoga

Melkweg Amsterdam, Netherlands 10.16.81

One of the most fun Dead shows I got to experience was this one, at an intimate hash bar in Amsterdam during their fall ’81 Europe tour. They opened the show with a rare acoustic set before delivering another two electric sets. It was Bobby’s 34th birthday and he was welcomed on stage with a bouquet of flowers as the audience sang him “Happy Birthday.” This was a special show as the band broke out songs they’ve never played before such as Van Morrison’s "Gloria" and Fred Sledge Smith’s "Hully Gully." This was my first time in Europe. I followed the Dead’s tour through Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, France and Spain. My Eurail pass was well used!

ALL PHOTOS

Just Bobby is available

As senior photographer for Relix magazine from the 1970s to 1990s, and later, chief package designer for Grateful Dead Productions, I’ve enjoyed unique access to the Grateful Dead world and insights into the music scene we love.

After my last book, Just Jerry, I wanted to show some love to Bobby and was kicking around ideas for a new project — Just Bobby seemed a natural follow up.

The first time I photographed Weir was at the Capitol Theatre on December 5, 1975 when he was fronting Kingfish. Fast forward to this past October and his 75th birthday shows at The Warfield — that’s over 45 years of Weir! Over that time I’ve grown close to Bobby, shot family portraits at his home, and many other intimate moments. Some of my favorites have been in the green room with him while he’s working out material before the show. I often feel like a fly on the wall capturing these precious scenes.

I pored through every photograph of Bobby I ever took to find the most special shots to include in this collection. Just Bobby has 192 pages full of Weir onstage and offstage with the Grateful Dead, Ratdog, Further, Wolf Brothers, Dead & Company and many other lineups. Additionally, there are essays and stories to accompany the photographs from people and musicians who were close to Bob or who were influenced by him. These indelible images capture peak moments from concerts at venues such as Red Rocks, Winterland, Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Garden, Capitol Theater, Shoreline, Oakland, and even Europe, along with Sweetwater Music Hall, Terrapin Crossroads and Bob's TRI Studios. I’ve included many previously unseen and unpublished images from my archives. — BOB MINKIN

Grateful Dead Radio City Music Hall, New York City, 10.30.80

In the fall of 1980 the Dead began an eight-night run at Radio City Music Hall. The format was to be an opening acoustic set (the first in NYC since 1970!) followed by two full electric sets. The anticipation was high.

The effort to get tickets was impressive and required at least an overnight wait outside their box office on the chilly streets of NYC. Some friends camped out for three nights. I managed to procure ducats for four of the eight nights. I didn’t have any official access, just determination to get the shots. Luckily, the security guy up front was cool with me being up there taking photographs.

Move Me Brightly

TRI Studios, San Rafael, CA, 8.3.12

Bobby Weir and a rotating lineup of musicians that included Phil Lesh, Neal Casal, Jeff Chimenti, Donna Jean Godchaux and Joe Russo performed a fivehour concert called “Move Me Brightly: Celebrating Jerry Garcia’s 70th Birthday.” Tamalpais Research Institute (TRI) is a state of the art multimedia performance studio conceived by Bobby Weir. I was house photographer at TRI and it was a privilege to capture these events. I loved photographing at TRI because the studio was so intimate and the lighting was fantastic.

Grateful

Dead Frost Amphitheater, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA 5.2.87

A beautiful, breezy spring day with the Grateful Dead on Stanford University’s campus. I wasn’t yet living in the Bay Area so my wife and I made the pilgrimage from New York to catch the two shows that weekend at the Frost, and two shows the following weekend in Monterey.

Bobby Weir & Wolf Bros

Sweetwater Music Hall, Mill Valley, CA, 2.10.20

Here’s Bobby with Don Was (bass) and Jay Lane (drums) at the best little rock 'n' roll club on the planet, Sweetwater Music Hall. Wolf Bros formed as a trio in 2020 and have since expanded into the “Wolfpack” with a horn section, Jeff Chimenti (keyboards) and Fairfax’s own Barry Sless (pedal steel.)

Bobby

Sweetwater Music Hall Mill Valley CA. 10.7.17

giving gratitude at a benefit for Music Heals International which supports music programs for children in Haiti.

Lstories love

Whether beneath towering redwoods in Mendocino County or in a tropical Hawaiian garden, these couples’ wedding day celebrations were a perfect reflection of their lives together.

BY LOTUS ABRAMS

Aaron Singer and Saskia Thompson

Kualoa Ranch

Moli’i Gardens, Kaneohe, HI June 10, 2022

What started out as friendship eventually blossomed into love for Saskia Thompson, a paralegal, and Aaron Singer, owner of Seaplane and Aero Adventures in Sausalito, and part-owner of the Commodore Seaplane Base and Heliport property — where the couple met by chance walking along a path. When it came time for the couple to select a wedding venue after getting engaged on the bow of a ship in the Caribbean Sea however, there was no doubt in their minds about where they wanted to tie the knot. “We knew from the beginning that we wanted to get married in Hawaii, because of its unbelievable beauty,” Saskia says.

Aaron and Saskia chose the Moli’i Gardens site at Kualoa Ranch, located on Oahu, for its idyllic scenery that includes a historical fishpond and two-tiered garden setting that allowed the ceremony and reception to take place in same location, but still feel distinct. The couple’s 65 guests traveled from California, as well as Oklahoma, Florida, New York, Colorado and even Jamaica to celebrate the big day, which incorporated a number of different cultural traditions, including the blowing of a conch shell, the Jewish custom of breaking a glass and a reading of “Zeke’s Poem (I am).” Another thing that made the day special for the couple was having their friends and family participate in the ceremony. “Our officiant, Tanya Smith, is a close friend and was on the path the day we met — she was the perfect wing woman!” Aaron says. “My daughters, Samantha and Amelia, and Saskia’s brother, PJ, read a poem my son had written when he was 12. Saskia’s best friend sang a Whitney Houston song during the ceremony. The village totally surrounded us.”

Details

ElizabethFiorentinoMarken and Jon Gubman

Café, San Francisco September 4, 2022

As they pledged their commitment to each other at the Stable Café in San Francisco, Elizabeth Marken Fiorentino and Jon Gubman were surrounded by an intimate group of 75 family and friends that included their grown children, making the day especially memorable. Their two sets of kids walked them down the aisle, and Liz’s niece officiated the ceremony. “One bonus of a second marriage is that your children, nieces and nephews can celebrate with you,” Liz says. “They have a unique perspective, and all spoke with sentiment and humor about how Jon has changed me — for the better!”

The couple had their first date at a restaurant in San Mateo, where Jon lived and Liz worked, and although they weren’t initially expecting a connection, it didn’t take long after they started dating for them to realize that they wanted to spend the rest of their lives together. The couple got engaged at Butterfly Beach in Santa Barbara, and then searched for a casual venue that would reflect their lifestyle and native California heritage — they’re 4th and 5th generation Californians. “The Stable has a beautiful courtyard with eclectic décor, succulents and native plants,” says Jon, who grew up in Mill Valley. “Once we visited, we knew it would be where we would hold our wedding.” The venue was booked solid, but had one day open, the Sunday of Memorial Day Weekend. With only four months to plan, the couple had to move quickly. Once the day arrived, everything came together perfectly. “The food was outstanding, the flowers beautifully merged with the décor, and the DJ kept everyone moving,” Liz says. “Jon seamlessly merged with my world early, and it was nice to have everyone I love together.”

Details

Photography:

Videography:

Floral:

Dress:

Groom’s

Music:

Invitations:

Venue: Stable Café, stablecafe.com

Jenny Morgan, Oh Happy Dawn, ohhappydawnphotography.com

Christopher Bollini

Ampersand, ampersandsf.com

Nili Lotan, nililotan.com

Suit: J. Crew

Santa Cruz DJ Company, santacruzdj.com

A Day in May, adayinmay.com

Stable

Left: Liz with her daughters. Below: Jon's children with their friends.

Details

Venue: The Golden Gate Club, wedgewoodweddings.com/goldengateclub

Event Planning and Design: Wedgewood Weddings, wedgewoodweddings.com

Photography: Leona Photography, leonaphoto.com

Videography: Inspired By Studio, inspiredbystudio.com

Floral: Rosedale Floral Design, rosedalefloraldesign.com

Grooms’ Suits: Giorgio Armani, armani.com

Jeremy Lynch and Abram Cortez

It wasn’t until their wedding day that Jeremy Lynch paid Abram Cortez back the $20 in cash he had borrowed from him when they first met waiting in line outside the End Up bar in San Francisco, a symbolic reminder of the night that brought them together. Jeremy and Abram both recall when they knew they wanted to commit their lives to one another. For Abram, it was early on, when he had to rush Jeremy to the hospital after he had a severe allergic reaction to walnuts, and for Jeremy it was when he brought him to meet his family at the cabin his great-grandfather built in Vail, which is also where he ultimately proposed on New Year’s Eve of 2019. “I knew if Abram could navigate my crazy family, he was the one!” Jeremy says.

They initially planned to get married in Napa or Sonoma, but had to change their plans due to Covid-19, and several fires. Not wanting to delay their plans any further, they decided to celebrate their wedding on their home turf in San Francisco, choosing the Palace of Fine Arts for the ceremony and the Golden Gate Club for the reception. The day proved worth the wait as they pledged their love to each other in front of 100 guests who hailed from Mexico, London, Costa Rica, and cities across the country and California. The ceremony, co-officiated by the couples’ two best friends, and reception celebrated their families’ mutual Mexican heritage — a mariachi band played Abram’s grandmother’s and mother’s favorite songs, and Jeremy added some words in Spanish to his vows. In the end, the magical day was as it was meant to be. “It was perfect and turned out to be more than we could have dreamed of from the beginning,” Abram says.

The Palace of Fine Arts and The Golden Gate Club, San Francisco May 27, 2022

Nurit Sarah Rafael and Brewster Jack Ludwig

When Nurit Rafael and Brewster Ludwig had to cancel the “dream wedding” she had planned in Mexico in November 2021 after the Covid-19 Delta strain hit and her father’s health had been compromised by cancer, the couple put their plans on hold to regroup. “We had more than 130 guests booked at the Hyatt, along with everyone’s flights booked, but it was an easy decision to make in respect to my father,” Nurit says. Then, fate — or rather James Roberts and Brian

Adkinson, owners of The Madrones and The Brambles in Philo — stepped in to help. Roberts and Adkinson, who also own a cannabis brand sold by Nurit’s Marin County-based cannabis delivery company ONA, generously offered up The Brambles property for their wedding venue. The site, set in a fairytale-like redwood grove, turned out to be the perfect location for the couple’s celebration, and it was worth the wait. “We both love the style of the venue being Victorian-meetsindustrial steampunk, and their slogan ‘come for the wine, stay for the weed,’” Nurit says. “We could be our true, authentic selves at this location.”

Nurit planned the entire wedding for 130 guests herself, and every detail reflected the Tiburon-based couples’ shared life and personal passions. During the interfaith ceremony, the couple walked

down the aisle atop Persian carpets from Nurit’s father’s collection, received the seven Jewish blessings from Nurit’s father and a protection prayer in Spanish delivered by Brewster’s mother; Brewster also broke a glass in the Jewish tradition. After the ceremony, the festival party vibe lasted all night, with a DJ playing classics, as well a global mix of music from Panama, Israel and Iran, on the dance floor under a custom disco ball installation created by friends; photo booth and bar trailers; a rose petal toss; confetti poppers; bubble guns; ribbon wands; a henna and bling bar; an afterparty in a yellow school bus; and of course, cannabis on offer for those who wanted to partake. “I never even saw the bar at my wedding or went in the photo booth though,” Nurit says. “I was on the dance floor the entire night. It was the best day of my life.”

Details

Venue: The Brambles and The Madrones, themadrones.com

Photography: Jojo Legnitto Photography, jojolegnitto.com

Videography: NB Media+, Nicholas Bernett, nbmediaplus.com

Floral: The Boonville Flower Farm (Coordinated by The Boonville Hotel, boonvillehotel.com); bridal bouquet was from the rose garden at The Madrones Hair and Makeup: Ella Leyva, ellaleyva.com

Music: DJ TonyTone, djtonytone.net

Bar: Mendocino Outland, mendocinooutland.com

Photo Booth: Penny & Co, pennyandco.net

Catering: Sonoma County Catering, sonomacountycatering. com, and Lilac and Lime Catering, lilacandlimecatering.com

The Brambles and The Madrones, Philo August 21, 2022

the details

The Wedding Planner

Take your special day to the next level with the help of these experts on the following pages.

Belle Marin Aesthetic Medicine

250 E. Blithedale Ave, Suite B Mill Valley, CA 415.887.8718

Hello@BelleMarin.com

Belle Marin Aesthetic Medicine is led by Dr. Faye Jamali. She envisioned a concierge-style medspa offering today’s leading aesthetic treatments and services; this vision became Belle Marin: a clean, elegant space complete with state-of-the-art aesthetic care performed by Dr. Jamali and her highly trained clinical staff. Whether you need a refresh or you are getting ready for your big day, they are here to help you on your journey.

Belle Marin offers the newest and best non-invasive technologies to create a customized plan for each patient. Dr. Jamali performs all medical treatments herself to ensure the highest quality in care. She offers complimentary consultations so patients can be wellinformed and make the right decisions for their treatment plans.

All facial services that use medical grade skincare are performed by Victoria, an incredible aesthetician who makes you feel like you are in a world-class spa. Wonderful staff like her will meet every need and provide elite service and care.

Whether you are seeking a medical procedure, body contouring, or a highly luxurious facial, the goal is always to make the patients feel like the best version of themselves. Belle Marin strives to offer the most advanced options for results-driven services, all while creating a beautiful boutique environment with top-tier service.

Can’t wait to see you at Belle Marin!

Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa

Drawing from the natural beauty that surrounds Sausalito, your picture-perfect celebration awaits at Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa.

With the San Francisco Bay glistening as a backdrop – The Alexandrite Suite is a premier event venue featuring 5,000 square-feet of entertainment space. Designed to create a fluid event layout, this luxe space transitions seamlessly from indoor to outdoor, connecting a stylish modern interior with panoramic bay views. The suite comfortably accommodates 50 guests for a seated dinner or 90 guests for a reception-style event. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors encompass 3,500-square feet of interior space, which slide away to reveal 1,500-square feet of outdoor entertainment space. In addition, this signature suite is part of the historic Mansion at Casa Madrona, which can be reserved in its 11-room entirety, either as a private residence or as a variety of separately keyed adjoining suites, ideal for destination weddings.

Filled with natural light from the floor-to-ceiling windows that open to reveal a breathtaking terrace overlooking the marina, our unique venue Junto is perfect for engagement parties and vow renewal celebrations. Junto comfortably accommodates 60 guests for dinner or 90 guests for a reception-style event. The floor-to-ceiling glass doors encompass 1,100 squarefeet of interior space, which slide away revealing a sprawling 600 square foot deck with expansive views of Richardson’s Bay.

Dee’s Organic Catering

SOUL FOOD FOR THE SOUL

Dee’s Organics goal is for our clients’ visions to come true. We create a personalized event that incorporates our creativity and organic touch, while adhering to your specifications. Not only can we create the menu you’ve always desired, but we are here to help with the decor, event flow and even your floral design. Let us take event stress off your plate for the event you always dreamed of.

Novato, CA 415.312.0790 • deesorganic.com

Frances Lane

ELEGANCE AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

Frances Lane is a boutique event rental studio located in Novato and serving the greater San Francisco Bay Area. The tabletop inventory is as unique as is the concept of renting fine, luxurious European and American china, stemware and flatware for your special event.

Why rent humdrum packages when, for almost the same price point, you can create your own special event to suit your personal style, taste, color preference and budget?

Frances Lane is here to help select the right pieces for your wedding, shower, tea or special dinner. We take pride in helping you create a most memorable event!

Let Frances Lane guide you in designing/creating the perfect table top for your next event.

285 Bel Marin Keys Blvd, Unit M, Novato, CA 415.234.6665 • FrancesLane.com

ELIZABETH WARWICK

This intimate Sausalito waterfront haven with 33 guestrooms and suites is possibly one of the most romantic destinations to be found. Chic and understated interiors lead to simply mesmerizing views from private furnished room decks. Sited directly on SF Bay, every room and suite has sweeping views of the bay, city skyline, Alcatraz, Angel Island and Marin. The spectacular brief ferry ride to San Francisco is but a few steps from the hotel. Guests enjoy an array of complimentary amenities. To name a few: generous expanded continental breakfast buffet, evening wine and cheese, in room binoculars, loaner bicycles, plush robes and slippers. Fireplaces and deep soaking tubs are popular in-room luxuries. Nothing is more coveted though than the unforgettable experience of sharing with a loved one the enthralling, ever-changing play of light and sea life on the bay.

Inn Above Tide - Conde Nast Traveler 2013 Best Hotels in The World and Conde Nast Traveler Readers Choice Award Winner 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021.

Dominican University

WEDDINGS AND SPECIAL EVENTS

Make your wedding or reception one to remember at Dominican University of California. Centrally located in a stunning historical neighborhood in San Rafael, our campus offers unique architecture and tranquil grounds to compliment your special day. Contact our event specialists to start planning your dream wedding.

50 Acacia Avenue • San Rafael, CA 415.485.3228 • dominican.edu/weddings

Spinnaker Restaurant

WEDDINGS - REHEARSALS - SPECIAL EVENTS

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

100 Spinnaker Drive • Sausalito, CA 415.332.1572 • thespinnaker.com

Eva Claiborne

LOOK GLAMOROUS ON YOUR SPECIAL DAY

Master Aesthetician, Eva of Eva Claiborne Beauty and Wellness specializes in preparing Brides and Grooms for their big day. She has been providing the highest level of skin care, spa therapies and perioperative aesthetic services for over 35+ years. Eva is passionate about skincare and is recognized as a premier provider of facials in Marin County. Please visit her website and call to make an appointment.

86 B Main Street , Tiburon, CA • Historic Ark Row 415.435.4326 • tiburonskincare.com

Chateau St. Jean

8555 Sonoma Highway Kenwood CA

707.257.5784 chateaustjean.com

Facebook, Instagram @chateaustjean

Weddings With Wine Country Charm + French Elegance

Set in the northern end of the idyllic Sonoma Valley, Chateau St. Jean provides a wine country wedding venue that blends French elegance with California’s natural beauty. Anchored by a 1920’s chateau, the historic property’s multiple venues and exquisite formal gardens allow couples to personalize an unforgettable day.

With the best vineyard views in the valley, the majestic grand lawn offers 30,000 square feet of space for the ceremony and accommodates up to 400 guests for dining and reception. For smaller gatherings, an open-air covered pergola surrounded by 150-year-old heritage olive trees is ideal for a 200-guest reception, or a walled rose garden can host 100 guests. Each of these event spaces is available for exclusive, private use seven days a week, from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Guests can select from a luxury portfolio of Sonoma Valley wines. From pre-ceremony photos amid roses to the exchange of vows against a backdrop of vineyards or the couple’s first dance on the grand lawn, Chateau St. Jean offers a space that is uniquely grand and intimate at the same time. Photo: Mike Larson

Sausalito (415) 302-9895 rebecca@rebeccakatzart.com www.rebeccakatzart.com

TRAVEL

Wellness Wonderland

Get away without going far at these Bay Area hotels that offer the full healing experience.

BY DANA REBMANN

1 Hotel San Francisco

San Francisco

1 Hotel San Francisco

. Whether you’re the type that would relish spending a few days being pampered in an award-winning spa or you prefer to spend time in the great outdoors, these San Francisco Bay Area hotels can help you focus on your overall well-being, so when vacation ends you can re-enter day-to-day life restored and refreshed.

Sustainable and luxurious, the Bamford Wellness Spa at the newly opened 1 Hotel was originally created in the English countryside and boasts an array of specially-formulated products made from natural, organic ingredients. Indulge in body and facial treatments before or after a dip in one of two al fresco soaking tubs that offer sweeping bay and downtown views. Looking for something extra? Consider a premium enhancement like red light therapy or a microcurrent lift. 1hotels.com/san-francisco

South Bay

Canyon Ranch Woodside

Nestled in the redwoods, Canyon Ranch describes itself as an immersive wellness retreat. One of four immersive destination resorts across the country, the Woodside location features a multitude of outdoor experiences to reset your spirit including hiking, mountain biking and morning yoga. The spa is an integral part of the wellness experience. Everything from Eastern massages like shiatsu, and energy therapies like reiki, to Ayurvedic treatments like abhyanga-shirodhara are available. canyonranch.com/woodside

North Bay Cavallo Point

Tucked into a sheltered nook in the Marin Headlands, Cavallo Point faces south for views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the city. Peer through the cypress trees on the hill to find the holistic spa. Integrative medicine programs, including acupuncture and martial arts, complement spa treatments, yoga, and a tea bar. An outdoor meditation pool, indoor and outdoor showers, and an outdoor fire pit and Zen garden provide ample opportunities for lounging and deeply inhaling the pine-scented aromas. cavallopoint.com

East Bay

Lafayette

Park Hotel & Spa

A French Country-inspired retreat with a unique blend of European charm and California flair, the Spa at The Park has been rated a AAA Four Diamond winner for 25 consecutive years. Along with customized massages and anti-aging facials, body wraps, and exfoliation treatments will make you feel pampered. For those that prefer to get their blood pumping, there’s always the hot tub, 24-hour fitness center, or the countless nearby hiking and biking trails. Surrounded by greenery and trees, the pool area is a tranquil spot that makes you want to linger longer. lafayetteparkhotel.com

Good for the mind, body and soul, wellness retreats can make you feel as though you have a new lease on life

Cavallo Point

Three California Wine Regions to Explore

BY MIMI TOWLE

Did you know that California produced 84% of the wine consumed in the United States in 2022? For the most part when people think of Wine Country, Napa and Sonoma come to mind. However, there are many more gold medal-winning wine producing regions within our Golden State. We selected these three to feature, because not only is their wine divine — they also have great hotels, restaurants and activities in the vicinity.

Mendocino

Oldest winery: Parducci Wine Cellars, 1932.

Number of wineries: 108.

Vineyard acres: 17,470.

Rising stars: Murder Ridge, Wentworth Vineyards, Masút Vineyard and Winery.

Varietals: Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Merlot and Syrah, Chardonnay and Sauvingon Blanc.

AVAs: 12, including: Anderson Valley, Mendocino Ridge and Eagle Peak.

Most famous familyrun vineyards: Navarro Vineyards, Husch Vineyards, Handley Cellars, Graziano Family of Wines, Brutocao Cellars.

Monterey

Oldest winery: Chalone Vineyard, 1919.

Number of wineries: 72, plus 64 tasting rooms.

Vineyard acres: 41,000.

Rising stars: Caraccioli Cellars, I. Brand & Family, Lepe Cellars, Joyce Wines, Albatross Ridge, Odonata, Rustique, Seabold, Sling & Stone.

Varietals: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are the most popular, however due to the microclimates there are 52 varietals in this region including Syrah, Grenache, Albariño, Sauvignon Blanc as well as Gamay Noir.

AVAs: 9, including: Santa Lucia Highlands, Arroyo Seco, and either Chalone or Carmel Valley.

Most famous family-run vineyards: Garys’ Vineyard, Pisoni Vineyard.

Paso Robles

Oldest winery: Turley Wine Cellars, 1854.

Number of wineries: Over 250, plus about 150 tasting rooms. Vineyard acres: 41,000.

Rising stars: Royal Nonesuch Farm, Thacher Winery, Hubba Wines, Caelesta, Copia Vineyards and Winery.

Varietals: Fifty percent of what is grown is Cabernet Sauvignon. However, the Rhone varieties tend to get the most acclaim.

AVAs: 11, including: Adelaida District, Creston District and El Pomar District.

Most famous family-run vineyards: DAOU Family Estates, J. Lohr Vineyards, Tablas Creek Vineyard and Castoro Cellars.

1 acre of grapes: 3,958 bottles of wine 15,940 glasses of wine

1 barrel of wine: 740 pounds of grapes 59 gallons of wine 24.6 cases of wine 295 bottles of wine 1,475 glasses of wine

1 case of wine: 30 pounds of grapes (468 ounces) 307.2 ounces of wine 12 bottles of wine 60 glasses of wine

1 bottle of wine: 2.4 pounds of grapes (39 ounces) 5 glasses of wine

AND

OUT ABOUT Community Happenings

From Martin Luther King Jr. events, to the biggest fundraising galas, and decadent cupcakes that look like flowers.

Baked Blooms

WHY NOT GET BANDED? There is an alternative to solitaires. We love these wide bands from Award Winning Designer Yael Designs. Like tiny stained glass windows in frosty 18k white gold, these lavish rings feature pastel sapphires, diamonds and beaded milgraine border details. 1226 Fourth Street • Downtown San Rafael • 415-459-5808 • stephanhill.com

allegorical photographic imagery, this exhibition uses portraiture and personal familial memorabilia to illustrate ideas about indoctrination and legacy within the black familial structure.

JAN 14–MAR 5 Altered Worlds: 2023 Annual Artists of MarinMOCA Exhibition 68 artists have submitted work to this year’s annual museum-wide members exhibition. The exhibition is juried by Chester Arnold, a well-known art teacher and nationally exhibited painter whose works explore the contemporary land scape. marinmoca.org

Lhola Amira: Facing the Future Lhola, de Young Museum program of exhibitions that will interpret the African art collection as a living and evolving practice through the lens of con temporary art. This solo exhibition, the artist’s first in the United States, features a site-specific spiritual portal Philisa: Zinza Mphefumlo Wami (2022). Also included is the single-channel video projection IRMANDADE: The Shape of Water in Pindorama (2018–2020). famsf.org

EVENTS

JAN 28 Bay Area Brew Festival returns from a three year hiatus, featuring over 50 breweries, hundreds of beers, food trucks and more. bayareabrewfestival.com

JANUARY 19–22 FOG Design + Art celebrates today’s most significant creatives and leading contributors to the worlds of design and visual arts. The fair assembles 45 leading international galleries and prominent 20th-century and contemporary design dealers. fogfair.com

JANUARY 26–28 ZineEX Wine Festival is a three-day wine and food extravaganza and one of the only festivals dedicated to a single grape variety. Experience the classic character of Zinfandel at four extraordinary events featuring a diverse selection of wines and styles. zinfandelexperience.com

BY CHRISTINA MUELLER

DINE

Marin’s Best Bakeries

If there is one surefire takeaway from the madness of recent years, Marin reaaaaally likes bread and pastries. With more shops, farm stands, home bakeries and pop-ups in Marin to partake of yeasty sweet and savory treats, the only question is: which town boasts the best croissant or batard?

WHAT'S HOT

FAIRFAX

Amelie Café

Though better known for its evening personality as a wine bar, the French café serves up fresh viennoiserie, pain au raisin, croissants and coffee in the morning. 71 Broadway Blvd, Fairfax; 628.253.5161; ameliefairfax.com

GREENBRAE

Victoria Bakery

Strawberry shortcake is just one of the heritage (and seasonal) desserts perfected by the century-old bakery at Bon Air Center. Look for raspberry ricotta cheesecake wrapped in a croissant and princess cake among the many treats in the wide case. 292 Bon Air Center, Greenbrae; 415.461.3099; victoriabakerymarin.com

MILL VALLEY

Waldscraft Bakery

Stacey Waldspurger’s pandemic pivot into a cottage bakery business quickly developed a booming following for her veggie-topped focaccia, frangipane tarts, blueberry cream muffins, chocolate cookies, and other Euro-American treats. 31 Sunnyside, Mill Valley; waldscraft.com

NOVATO

Creekside Bakery House made levain toast, quiche (smoked ham and Marin French brie is forever) and sandwiches on griddled ciabatta are part of the

appeal of this long-running bakery and café but it’s the large assortment of cakes — from carrot and coffee crunch to St. Honoré and Black Forest — that have a dedicated following. 1719 Grant Ave, Novato; 415.892.7655; creeksidebakery.com

SAN RAFAEL

Ponsford's Place Bakery & Innovation

Center

Open one day (Saturday), Ponsford’s style leans into traditional European breads and viennoiserie, with a focus on locally milled flours from Petaluma’s Central Milling, Community Grains in Oakland and Marin’s Honoré Farm and Mill. Chocolate coins (mendiants), savory pumpkin pie, sour rye and a baguette with a crisp crust and tender crumb said to be “the best” by the French (Ponsford’s team won the baguette category in the 1996 Coupe du Monde de la Boulangerie) are wintery items that you should be able to find when you stop in. 117 Shaver Street, San Rafael; ponsfordsplace.shopsettings.com

Scan here for a complete list.

JOHN DAVID LEVY

Creekside Bakery, Novato

CORTE MADERA

Cafe Verde Californian

The all-day cafe offers Neapolitan pizza, Sicilian calzone and a tight menu of pasta, risotto, and salads. Enjoy any of these items inside or out on the patio along with local and international wines and beers. 502 Tamalpais Drive, 415.927.1060; cafeverdecm.net

$

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 fireplace, it’s a fun experience. An all-day menu features authentic French cuisine utilizing seasonal, local and organic ingredients, along with an extensive cocktail menu, a wide range of beer options, and an expertly-curated wine selection. 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 — the patio, the front garden or the redwood grove — are in addition to the three cozy indoor dining spaces. It’s bar is a perennial best of the county winner. 234 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.1877; perryssf.com

The charcuterie at AFICI is exclusively A5 wagyu. Using A5 wagyu leads to a depth of flavor that is hard to match. It showcases pâté, rilettes, whipped lardo, ‘Ndjua, as well as whole muscle in the form of a leg cured in “prosciutto” style. It is whole animal utilization at its finest.

A5 WAGYU CHARCUTERIE

MILL VALLEY

Buckeye Roadhouse American

Oysters Bingo, baby back ribs, and chililime “brick” chicken are a few of the satisfying comfort-food menu items that have made this classic roadhouse a favorite since the ’30s. The warm dark-wood bar with red leather booths is a popular spot for cocktails, conversations or a light meal. Heated patio seating offers a moments respite with a fresh espresso and breakfast burrito from the weekday Buckeye Joe Coffee Kiosk out front. 15 Shoreline Hwy, 415.331.2600; buckeyeroadhouse.com

BB HH

Bungalow 44 American

The bustling bar is ideal for savoring a seasonal cocktail or an order of the house’s 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 townhot spot. 44 E Blithedale Ave, 415.381.2500; bungalow44.com

Cafe del Soul

Californian

Healthy options become addictive at this eatery that now has locations in Tam Junction and San Rafael. Once you stop in for the deliciously fresh quinoa wrap, you’ll want to return to try the chipotle rice bowl. A casual lunch spot and great for takeout, Cafe del Soul also serves smoothies and pressed juices. 247 Shoreline Hwy, 415.388.1852; cafedelsoul.net

$

Floodwater

Californian

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

the long 20 seat bar and watch the game on 5 huge 4K HD TV’s while noshing on pork belly steamed buns or dive into Shorty’s Tall Reuben. Up the coziness factor in the leather-couched Den as you tuck into a Positano pizza cooked in the wood-fired oven at this spacious Tam Valley/Manzanita Tavern with pool table and shuffleboard. The Patio features multiple fire pits. 152 Shoreline Hwy, 415.843.4545; floodwatermv.com

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 steamed tea buns, juicy Shanghai dumplings, and unique bites like minced lamb with radicchio cups. A definite must, the famous signature beef. All menu items also available from Harmony Take Home which has its own entrance. 401 Strawberry Village, 415.381.5300 harmonyrestaurantgroup.com

Hook Fish Co. Seafood

The indoor, 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 can enjoy the poke, fish and chips or fish tacos secure in the knowledge of exactly where and on what boat your meal came from. 254 Shoreline Hwy; hookfishco.com

BB

Piatti Ristorante and Bar Italian

A fireplace lounge and open format concept invites lingering over refreshed menu items such as house made ravioli

with lemon cream and citrus gremolata, roasted mushroom pizza with taleggio fonduta and black truffle oil or roasted salmon with artichokes and Calabrian chili in expanded indoor spaces and on the patio with views of Shelter Bay. House made products, such as fresh pastas, sauces, dipping oils and wines from Piatti Provisions mean the same ingredients in the rigatoni Bolognese are now available for home cooks. 625 Redwood Hwy, 415.380.2525; piatti.com

BB

Playa Mexican

With a chef from Mexico City, Playa’s food offers traditional dishes with modern flavors and presentations. A Little Gem salad sparkles with tomatillo dressing and enchiladas shine from a glossy coating of house made black mole and micro greens. The bar highlights exceptional tequilas and mezcals but the el Slushie and house margarita have legions of fans and are perfect for sipping on the large, heated back patio. Weekend lunch is available. 41 Throckmorton Ave, 415.384.8871; playamv.com

BB HH

Shoreline Coffee Shop

American

Hidden behind Good Earth in Tam Junction, this coffee shop is a vintage diner with a small-town, community feel. The mix of Mexican and traditional breakfast fare hits the comfort food spot, gussied up with organic and local goodies like eggs from Tennessee Valley neighbor, Woolly Egg Ranch. Try them on several popular dishes including Tennessee Valley Toast and Machaca Hash. Rustic bread from Green Gulch Farms, too. 221 Shoreline Hwy, 415.388.9085 shorelinecoffeeshop.com

$ BB

Cucina sa is open for lunch and dinner 6 days a week! Lunch is served Tuesday through Friday 11:30AM to 3 PM, brunch is served Saturday and Sunday from 10:30AM to 3 PM, and dinner is Tuesday through Sunday from 5PM to 9 PM. Outside dining on our bridge and parklet. Hope that you can join us soon! Please call for larger parties or special requests.

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

Watershed Californian

Gather ’round the fire pit in front of the restaurant at the Lumber Yard or hang out at the long bar for a pre-dinner glass of wine before sampling one of the many dishes curated to reflect the bounty of Marin. The Stemple Creek Ranch burger and fresh pastas are matched with a bevy of simply prepared, easy to share dishes (like spicy rock cod lettuce cups or lamb riblets) that reflect chef Kyle Swain’s careful sourcing and focus on local flavor. 129 Miller Ave, 415.888.2406; watershed.com

Comforts Cafe American

Established in 1986, Comforts has a cozy sit-down cafe, serving breakfast, lunch and weekend brunch. Their large takeout section offers a wide selection of house made bakery items, seasonal salads, soups, sandwiches and family meals for dinner at home. Besides the famous Chinese chicken salad, other winners are the stuffed pecan-crusted French toast, chicken Okasan (nicknamed “Crack Chicken” by fans), Korean BBQ flank steak and Wor Won Ton soup. Catering services are also available. 335 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.454.9840; comfortscafe.com

Rustic Bakery Californian

NOVATO

Organic pastries, breads, salads, and sandwiches are on the menu at this location downtown, including daily seasonal specials. Try the Marin Melt — Cowgirl Creamery’s Mt. Tam and Point Reyes

Toma cheeses grilled on honey whole wheat, served with dressed baby greens and crisp apple slices. It’s even better on the patio. 1407 Grant Ave, 415.878.4952; rusticbakery.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 flavors and just the right amount of sweet heat. The outdoor patio is heated on chilly days and evenings. 726 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.457.9470; baanthaimarin.com

BB

$ BB

Creekside Pizza & Tap Room American

A perennial Best of the County winner known for their artisan pizzas, hearty sandwiches, flavorful pastas and fresh salads, Creekside offers 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 makes Creekside a beloved destination for fresh drinks in equal measure 638 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.785.4450; creeksidesa.com

Cucina sa Italian

Open for lunch, weekend brunch, and dinner six nights a week for the house’s famous homemade pastas, seasonal salads, and wood-fired pizzas that strike a balance between southern Italy and northern California. Full bar and cocktails are available to go or enjoy a tipple on premise at the heated parklet or inside. 510 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.454.2942; cucina-sa.com

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 for the carpaccio of beef, the pan-seared Pekin duck and chef Valenti’s famous tower of triple chocolate love at dessert. A seat at the chef’s table gives a prime view of the open kitchen. 337 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.454.7800; valentino.com

SAN RAFAEL

Cafe del Soul

Californian

Healthy options become addictive at this eatery that now has locations in Tam Junction and San Rafael. Once you stop in for the deliciously fresh quinoa wrap, you’ll want to return to try the chipotle rice bowl. A casual lunch spot and great for takeout, Cafe del Soul also serves smoothies and pressed juices. 247 Shoreline Hwy, 415.388.1852; cafedelsoul.net $

SAUSALITO

Angelino Restaurant

Italian

Multiple generations of the Arcona family create an authentic Italian eatery with handmade pastas and seasonal antipasti that has showcased the cuisine of the Campania region for more than 20 years. The newer Angelino Pastry Bar features classic croissants, focaccia and a raspberry-polenta Pop Tart, among other treats with pickup from 8 a.m.–1 p.m., Friday–Sunday. 621 Bridgeway, 415.331.5225; angelinorestaurant.com

Barrel House Tavern Californian

Stop by Barrel House for a feeling of rising above it all (it’s on the second floor) where the soaring ceiling work reflects the restaurant’s name. The barrel-aged cocktails are worth a visit (try the Negroni) but dishes like maitake mushroom flatbread and tartare tacos reflect a locally-focused ethos that is enhanced by the cool setting and fantastic bay and city views. 660 Bridgeway, 415.729.9593; barrelhousetavern.com

BB HH Fish Seafood

It has been said that this restaurant and fish market launched the sustainable sea food movement. Order any of the day’s offerings — the menu changes daily but usually has a variation of fish tacos, ceviche

and grilled fish — then take in the bay views on the open-air deck. Though cash is still king, credit cards are now accepted. 350 Harbor Dr, 415.331.3474; 331fish.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 ingredients. The bar may be the

BY DONNA BERRY GLASS

ON SCENE THE

PNOC Foundation Gala Offers Hope to Pediatric Brain Cancer Patients

On November 12, world-renowned physicians from the Pacific Pediatric Neuro-Oncology Consortium (PNOC) joined patient families, biotech leaders and other supporters at the Letterman Digital Arts Center in the Presidio for the PNOC Gratitude Gala. The goal: raise funds to accelerate treatments for pediatric brain cancer, including clinical trials providing access to novel treatments. Notable guests included PNOC co-founder Dr. Michael Prados, and Dr. Nalin Gupta, Chief of Pediatric Neurosurgery at UCSF.

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THIS PAGE: RONNY KNIGHT (BOTH PAGES); ILLUSTRATION BY JADE HOWE; RIGHT PAGE: CHRIS CONSTANTINE

1 Anjali Wilkerson; 2 Monica Grey and Adam Fong; 3 Joslyn Faust, Allyn Campbell, Pam Coan, Liz Harrell; 4 PNOC Foundation Board Members Steve Karski, Barabara Karski with PNOC researcher Dr. Rob Wechsler-Reya.

Savoring Blues and Brews for Marin Foster Care Association 175 children living in foster care managed by the Marin Foster Care Association and their caregivers benefited from $300,000 raised during the nonprofit’s annual Blues & Brews fundraising event on October 22. The organization’s mission is to pair all the foster children in their program exclusively with Marin County-based homes, allowing the kids to remain local.

1 Auctioneer Liam Mayclem and Board President Ashley Hurd; 2 Rod and Jason Eshler Dias; 3 Anna Harrell and Jim Greer; 4 Guests at the fundraiser; 5 Deborah Odier and Judge Geoffrey M. Howard.

MO DELONG (1,

3); DUDLEY DENADOR (4)

St. Vincent’s Pennies from Heaven Gala Raises $700K The St. Vincent de Paul Society of Marin raised nearly $700,000 at its annual Pennies from Heaven Gala on October 8 at the Meadow Club, taking a step closer to ending homelessness and hunger in the county. More than 200 guests showed up to support Vinnie’s, including Executive Director Christine Paquette, Sean and Simone Barron, Sioban Scanlon, Samir Ramji and Kathleen Woodcock. Senator Mike McGuire led the night’s auction.

1 Sean and Simone Barron; 2 Brian and Christine Paquette; 3 Kathleen Woodcock and Senator Mike McGuire; 4 Sioban Scanlon and Samir Ramji.

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The Redwoods Celebrates Golden Anniversary The Redwoods, a senior living com

munity situated on ten acres in Mill Valley with its own organic garden, celebrated

years at its fundraising gala November 5 at The Seminary at Strawberry. Vera Meislin and Penny Wright co-chaired the event that featured a cocktail recep

tion with live jazz, a sit-down dinner and dancing. Redwoods CEO, Hunter Moore, remarked that the evening “was a joyous celebration honoring the founders, com

munity leaders, supporters, residents, families, friends and team members who did so much over the last 50 years to make The Redwoods the gem it is today.”

Liz Creel and Hunter Moore, CEO; 2 Gala Co-Chairs, Vera Meislin and Penny Wright; 3 Congresswoman, Lynn Woolsey and Christian Mills, Dir. of Development; 4 Claire McAullifer.

MARIN HOME

Making a Splash

Reorienting a home on a tight corner lot created a much-needed sense of arrival, improved interior flow and enhanced indooroutdoor living for a family of five in Ross.

BY LOTUS ABRAMS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADAM WILLIS

Details WHERE Ross WHAT 3-bedroom, 2 1/2-bathroom remodel

When Matt and Niki Webster returned to the Bay Area with their young children after living in Australia for a year, they sought a family-friendly community with a great school district and access to outdoor activities. The couple found that Ross fit the bill perfectly, and after renting in the town for six months, they purchased a three-bedroom, two-and-a half bath home within easy walking distance of Ross School and downtown. “The house caught our eye because of the large windows in the back, and for the modest size, it felt very roomy and airy,” Matt says. But while the 1980s-era home met their immediate needs, a number of issues soon became apparent. The home’s pale pink stucco exterior with painted green doors and wood-framed windows lacked character. The tight corner lot wasn’t well utilized to maximize the outdoor space and offered little privacy for the pool area. The garage, which houses the washer and dryer, was separate from the house — especially inconvenient during the winter months. And inside, an awkward enclosed spiral staircase blocked natural light coming in from the wall of windows, obscured the view of the pool and disrupted the floor plan on the

ARCHITECT John Clarke Architects

CONTRACTOR Hart Building and Design

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT Integrated Design Studio

lower level. Perhaps most perplexing, visitors seemed perpetually confused about where to enter the house. “People kept turning up at our back door,” Matt says. After living in the home for five years, Matt and Niki turned to Sausalito-based John Clarke Architects, as well as contractor Hart Building and Design and landscape architect Integrated Design Studio, to renovate and reconfigure the space to better fit their lifestyle. The first step Clarke took was to connect the garage to the house with a 146-square-foot cedar-clad addition that would also serve as the new entrance, further emphasized by a new entry gate and patio. “We only made a tiny increase in square footage, but effectively reprogramed the whole circulation and approach to the house,” Clarke says. “We really wanted to roll out the welcome mat so that people would understand where they’re supposed to go.”

Reorienting the home meant that the pool area became a side yard, while on the opposite side of the house, the formerly neglected front yard was repurposed as an enclosed side yard outfitted with artificial turf for the couple’s three children to play. The

A new floating-tread staircase replaced an awkward enclosed spiral staircase, allowing natural light through the wall of windows and showcasing the view of the pool, as well as opening up the floor plan.

house’s exterior was updated by refinishing the stucco in a light gray color, changing out the wood-framed windows for black-clad windows and replacing the concrete tile roof with a sleek and modern standing metal seam roof.

Inside, a stunning new floating-tread staircase replaced the bulky corkscrew staircase, opening up the lower level. Storage was optimized in the redesigned kitchen, which was formerly tucked behind the spiral staircase, and a new bar extended the area for entertaining between the kitchen and living room. Additional black-clad doors were added to improve sightlines and access to both side yards. “Now the downstairs is so full of light, and the access to outside is much easier,” Niki says. “You really feel like you’re outside even when you’re indoors.”

The renovation makes the most out of the modest-sized lot and appears seamless, epitomizing Clarke’s approach to remodel and addition projects, which the firm has specialized in for the past 17 years. “At the end of the day, we want our work to appear as if it were always part of each project and complement what portions of it remain,” Clarke says. “It wouldn’t be bad if somebody asked the question, ‘So what exactly did you guys do here?’ because we want our work to be so fully integrated that it’s a little bit hard to tell where it started and where it stopped.”

The changes have made a big difference to the Websters. “We’re now really reaping the amazing benefits from living here,” Niki says. “It’s all worked out wonderfully well.”

A cedar-clad addition that connects the house to the garage serves as the home’s new entrance.

You really feel like you’re outside even when you’re indoors .

Storage was optimized in the redesigned kitchen.

Successful off-market Ross sale in an uncertain real estate time. We prepared for the sale by advising our sellers about the forms, inspections, and disclosures needed to provide a good sense of the property condition, making buyers confident about submitting strong offers while also protecting the sellers. We informed our extensive agent network that there was a small window for hearing offers and leveraged the fact that if the sellers didn’t receive a good one, we would market the house in the Spring. Why would sellers want to try an off-market sale? No need for painting, staging, or strangers going through their house. Allowed them to test the buyer interest during a changing uncertain market. Why would buyers want to buy an off market home? No homes available in their children’s school district made them motivated to buy this Ross home. And just as importantly, it is a great property!

Let us know if you’d like to do something similar. We’d love to help!

Landscape Design/Photo: Eileen Kelly | Dig Your Garden Landscape Design

Represented by MARCUS ROBINSON & STACIA CULP

• Greeted by a dramatic foyer with soaring ceilings, this trophy residence features a home theater, an office, a fitness room, wine cellar, and an allure that is unlike any other Belvedere residence

• Providing a luxury living experience, this home is equipped with all the modern amenities, some of which include (2) Tesla power walls, (2) Tesla car chargers, Savant home automation, Luma surveillance cameras, Lutron switches and outlets, intricately designed lighting, Wac landscape lighting, and business grade WiFi

• The crown jewel of the outdoors is the spacious entertainment terrace with spectacular views, a fire pit, and a hot tub conveniently located off the main level; the flat and sunny astro turf lawn (possible pool site) is surrounded by beautifully manicured landscaping

• The sophisticated living room was thoughtfully designed with floor-to-ceiling view windows anchoring the room, perfectly framing Raccoon Strait, Angel Island, and Corinthian Island

• The chef’s kitchen, which seamlessly connects to the living room overlooking the water, features vaulted ceilings, white ArcusStone countertops, center island with seating for three, breakfast bar with seating for three, top of the line fixtures, two pantry closets, and high end appliances; a Subzero refrigerator, freezer and wine cooler, Thermador professional 6 burner gas range, griddle, (2) ovens and hood, Miele dishwasher and Sharp microwave drawer

• The home theater gives one the ultimate movie theater experience with a large Sony Oled screen, surround sound with (7) in-ceiling and inwall speakers, sub woofer and sound proofing

• This fabulous residence seamlessly connects the indoors to the outdoors with optimum window placement and light

• The landscaping and outdoor entertainment areas were designed to perfection offering a sprawling level turf lawn, manicured landscaping, flagstone entertainment patio, and a dock; a wonderful setting for ‘al fresco’ dining and entertaining family and friends

• The sophisticated living room offers skylights allowing for wonderful natural sunlight, a wood burning fireplace, and opens to a private courtyard

• The chef’s kitchen offers style and functionality with granite countertops, large center island with seating, Viking 6 burner gas range, Miele dishwasher, KitchenAid refrigerator, walk-in pantry, built-in desk, and adjacent family room

• The spectacular primary suite is located upstairs offering stunning lagoon views, new carpeting, built-in bookshelves and opens out to a view terrace; the primary bathroom features dual sinks, a large stall shower and oversized walk-in closet with custom wardrobe system

• The four additional bedrooms are located on the main level; one on its own separate wing, opening to the inviting courtyard and providing an ideal home office

• Located in a premier Belvedere location offering close proximity to downtown Tiburon’s shops, restaurants, waterfront pathways, San Francisco and Angel Island ferries, the Boardwalk shopping center, and the San Francisco and Corinthian yacht clubs

Best Luxury Agent (Best of 2022 SF Magazine) #3 in the Bay Area’s Leading 100 List (LuxeSF 2022) #27 in Nation on RealTrends “TheThousand List” (The Wall Street Journal 2022)

BY JIM WOOD

LOOKING BACK

The Grandi Building

Think back to being in Point Reyes Station, West Marin’s largest town. Remember the huge brick building at the south end of town? It’s been vacant for decades and now has messages plastered all over it? That’s the Grandi Building. It was built back in 1915 featuring Mission Revival architecture with hotel rooms and a dance hall on the top floor and shops and offices downstairs. According to local lore, the Grandi Company sold everything from cattle feed to grand pianos downstairs while railroad passengers and workers stayed upstairs. Business boomed for maybe 15 years; for a time the town’s telephone switchboard was located in the building’s lobby as was its post office. And in 1940, an Army lieutenant colonel named Dwight Eisenhower was a hotel guest (12 years before he became America’s 34th president). But by the early 1930s, trains

had stopped running and, as a result, the upstairs hotel was losing money; and in 1953 it was closed. The shops and offices lasted until 1978 before they called it quits. Now the Grandi Building’s present owner winemaker Ken Wilson of Healdsburg wants to bring it back to life in a configuration that’s similar to the original layout: 20 to 24 hotel rooms upstairs and retail on the ground floor. “Oh gosh, he’s been at that for over a dozen years and it doesn’t seem to be making much headway,” says Melanie Stone, owner of Zuma, a popular, artful craft store that’s been a neighbor of the Grandi Building for over 27 years. “Yet it would sure be good for the town if he could pull it off, it would bring business to that end of town and give people a place to stay when visiting — even better would be affordable housing upstairs.”

Point Reyes Station’s long-vacant landmark is showing faint signs of life.

PAUL JENKINS

1923-2012

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

Abstract Expressionist painter Paul Jenkins is recognized for the owing color of his work. Combining gestural abstraction with alternating opacity and transparency to both emanate and capture light. Over more than seven decades, his paintings have been widely exhibited around the world. Jenkins has had seven major retrospectives at American and European museums.