To help After-Hours Care Pediatric) Surgical General Surgery
Great care for every part of you in every part of the North Bay. you are currently a patient of Medical are a new in search of a
● to Marin’s excellent nonprofits that are working around the clock to serve our county’s most vulnerable residents.
● to the volunteers delivering food and medical supplies to those who can’t leave their homes.
● to our elected and appointed officials who are providing credible, timely updates and thoughtful legislation.
● to the dedicated medical staff and first responders who are risking infection to treat patients.
● to the generous donors who are contributing vital financial support to nonprofit agencies and those they serve.
● to the parents who are simultaneously working from home and acting as substitute teachers.
● to the thoughtful residents of Marin who are staying home, checking on elderly neighbors, and socializing online.
We might be 6 feet apart, but as a community, we’ve never been closer.
Thank You 415.464.2500
It’s a fact that during the 2008 catastrophic stock market downturn, most investors lost significant wealth – and faith – in financial markets. Many never fully recovered – financially or psychologically. Strangely, most investors are poised to make the very same mistake during the next big market decline. Unfortunately, this is a result of Wall Street’s “set it and forget it” approach to investing. Here at Main Street Research we see things differently. Our Active Risk Management process mitigates the risk of catastrophic decline, as was the case in 2008, while at the same time allowing investors to participate in today’s rising market. If you are interested in avoiding past mistakes, we should talk.
Call or visit www.ms-research.com. Minimum relationship $1 million.
got risk? THE LOSS OF A SUBSTANTIAL AMOUNT ANY SUCH INVESTMENT. THOSE RISKS THE RISK OF CHANGES THE CONCENTRATION OF THE OF THE 2018 FINANCIAL TIMES 300 TOP REGISTERED
FEATURES
24
A Difficult Diagnosis
Marin County's public health officer, Matt Willis, discusses his experience as a coronavirus patient.
28 The Trailblazing Women of Marin
The county and country would look much different if not for these locals.
34
Nature's Nurturers
Women are bringing new ideas and taking the reins at family farms.
IN MARIN
17 Currents
Life during lockdown: staying fit, ordering weed, de-stressing, howling and visiting virtual zoos.
22
First Person
Heather Young published her first book at age 51 and is encouraging others to do the same.
EAT & DRINK
59
Eat & Drink
Join the breadmaking craze or raid the liquor cabinet to make your own tasty cocktails.
62
Dine
A listing of Marin and San Francisco restaurants: most of them offering delivery or take-out options.
MARIN HOME
69 Gardens
Now is the time to sow your seeds for a bounty later, and thoughts on how to ditch that lawn.
COLUMNS
14 Editor's Note Reflections
Dairy cows at Point Reyes Farmstead CheeseCountdown to Release of Real Estate Rescue Release
Now, more than ever, the principles of my book are applicable to help sell your home. Real Estate Rescue addresses every single thing you need to know about how to successfully sell your home for the very highest price in this market.
LOVE Stacks of
CHIEF VISIONARY OFFICER
Susan B. Noyes
Editorial
NATIONAL EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Mimi Towle
NATIONAL MANAGING EDITOR
Daniel Jewett
NATIONAL DIGITAL CONTENT DIRECTOR
Brooke Geiger McDonald
ASSOCIATE EDITORS
Macaire Douglas, Kasia Pawlowska
DIGITAL EDITOR
Jessica Gliddon
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Christina Mueller
COPY EDITOR
Cynthia Rubin
NATIONAL DINING EDITOR
Julie Chernoff
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kirsten Jones Neff, Zack Ruskin, Heather Young
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Casey Gillespie
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Emily Blevins
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
Alex French
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Angela DeCenza Sharon Krone Maeve
Volume 16, Issue 5. Marin Magazine is published in Marin County by Marin Magazine Inc. owned by Make It Better Media LLC. All rights reserved. Copyright©2020. Reproduction of Marin Magazine content is prohibited without the expressed, written consent of Marin Magazine Inc. Unsolicited materials cannot be returned. Marin Magazine reserves the right to refuse to publish any advertisement deemed detrimental to the best interests of the community or that is in questionable taste. Marin Magazine is mailed monthly to homes and businesses in Marin County.
Marin (USPS 024-898) is published monthly by Marin Magazine Inc., One Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965. Periodicals Postage Paid at Sausalito, CA, and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Marin Magazine, One Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
Media PRESIDENT
Jessica Cline | jcline@makeitbetter.com
MEDIA DIRECTOR
Leah Bronson | lbronson@marinmagazine.com
SENIOR MEDIA CONSULTANT
Lesley Cesare | lcesare@marinmagazine.com
SENIOR NATIONAL MEDIA CONSULTANT
Dina Grant | dgrant@marinmagazine.com
MEDIA CONSULTANT
Sharon Coleman | scoleman@marinmagazine.com
STRATEGIC EVENTS AND MEDIA CONSULTANT
Jennifer Woolford | events@better.net
MARKETING DIRECTOR
Debra Hershon | dhershon@marinmagazine.com
MARKETING ASSOCIATE
Natasha Romanoff | atasha@marinmagazine.com
MEDIA ART MANAGER Alex French
Regional Sales O ffices
WINE COUNTRY
Lesley Cesare | lcesare@marinmagazine.com
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA / TAHOE
Leah Bronson | lbronson@marinmagazine.com
NEW YORK
Karen Couture, Couture Marketing | 917.821.4429
HAWAII
Debbie Anderson, Destination Marketing | 808.739.2200
Reader Services
MAILING ADDRESS
One Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965 PHONE 415.332.4800 FAX 415.332.3048
INQUIRIES
subscriptions@marinmagazine.com | 818.286.3111 editorial@marinmagazine.com
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Please send letters to editorial@marinmagazine.com. Be sure to include your full name, city, state and phone number. Marin Magazine reserves the right to edit letters for clarity, length and style.
SUBSCRIPTIONS
Rates are $12 for out-of-state subscriptions or free for California subscribers. To subscribe, manage your subscription or change your address visit marinmagazine.com/subscribe.
BULK ORDERS
For information on bulk orders of Marin Magazine, please call 415.332.4800.
FOUNDER AND CHIEF VISIONARY OFFICER
Susan B. Noyes
Great things are happening at RBC Wealth Management on the continues to attract top advisors in Marin County
View from the Top
What Is Normal?
In times like these, it is important to be nimble in business practices, humble in the face of uncertainty and grateful for a community like Marin.
The new normal? As this issue goes to print, we are all still trying to navigate and understand what this pandemic means. What we do know is that COVID-19, the strain of the coronavirus that wreaked havoc with our planet’s popula tion, is also a game changer for our company, and we’re pretty sure it’s a change for the better. Please let us explain.
When the pandemic hit, our team immedi ately leaned hard into our mission to provide you with trusted, helpful, up-to-the-minute content, which referenced the best local and national resources. As our county mobilized, we did all we could to help.
From makeshift home offices that we shared with spouses — while also juggling education for our kids and sheltering with young adults unhappy to have been called back home so soon after leaving the nest — we learned to Zoom, col laborate online, work faster, more intently and with greater purpose.
You devoured our COVID-19 news and articles that helped you shop, eat, sleep, find
spiritual and mental balance, stay fit, improve your home, be entertained, help others and explore the world while we were all confined at home. Because of this, we increased our Better Letter frequency and started sending at least three email newsletters to you weekly. Our sub scribers to those Better Letters soared, as did our digital stats. Some of your favorite articles were how to grocery shop while sheltering in place, if going to the beach to surf was the right thing to do and the ultimate guide to COVID-19. We encourage you to visit us online for even more coronavirus-related topics.
As always, our content also celebrated ways that Marin helps or leads the way. For example, San Anselmo’s rockflowerpaper, supported by the Marin Community Foundation, quickly ramped up and made five million — count ’em, five million — face masks. Social media showed images of Marinites howling at the moon. Why? To answer that, we introduce you to Mill Valley’s Hugh Kuhn, one of the origi nators of the howl, and learn how his tribute
to health care workers has caught on across the country.
Which brings us back to this publication. Just before the world changed, we were putting together our third annual Celebrating Women issue. Last year we won one of the most presti gious national publishing awards in the country, and we were hoping to repeat that success this year. Some of our articles still reflect this theme, but we quickly realized that we wanted, and needed, to expand the issue’s focus and send a love note to this amazing community.
We hope you enjoy reading and will be inspired by this issue, which marks our transi tion to a digital-first model. If you like what you see in print, you will love what you find online at marinmagazine.com, in our Better Letters and through our upcoming online Zoom seminars.
If you haven’t already done so, please join us online at marinmagazine.com/newsletter.
The Marin Magazine and Make It Better Media Team
The FPI Group brings RBC to Marin
Preserving and developing Marin’s wealth since 1992
The FPI Group is composed of Managing Director, Branch Director and Senior Portfolio Manager Patrick T. Farley, a Marin native with 28 years of experience, who was named a 2019 Forbes “Best-in-State” wealth advisor; First Vice President Carl Ilg, CPFA; Associate Vice President Matthew Larrabure, CFP® , CPFA, CRPC®; and Associate Vice President Kerry Farley. They are supported by Investment Associate Connie Morehouse, Senior Client Associate Mary Polizzi and Senior Client Associate Taylor Wood.
Designing and adhering to a very specific wealth management plan and investment strategy is at the heart of what we do. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you.
The FPI Group Patrick T. Farley, CIMA®, CPFA Managing Director – Branch Director Senior Portfolio Manager (415) 445-8484 thefpigroup@rbc.com www.thefpigroup.com
Investment and insurance products offered through RBC Wealth Management are not insured by the FDIC or any other federal government agency, are not deposits or other obligations of, or guaranteed by, a bank or any bank affiliate, and are subject to investment risks, including possible loss of the principal amount invested.
Source: Forbes.com America’s Top Wealth Advisors: State-By-State ranking was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on in-person and telephone due diligence meetings and a ranking algorithm that includes: client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations; and quantitative criteria, including: assets under management and profitability. For more information: www.SHOOKresearch.com.
This award does not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients and is not indicative of this advisor’s future performance. The financial advisor does not pay a fee to be considered for or to receive this award.
© 2020 RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC. All rights reserved. 20-SI-01555 (04/20)
CELEBRATING THE PEOPLE, PLACES AND CAUSES OF THIS UNIQUE COUNTY
This image of a hiker at the Marin Headlands typifies the way many Marinites are likely feeling: a little isolated, longing for nature and looking forward to a new day free of the threat of a disease.
For more information on apps: marinmagazine.com/ stayfit; on classes: marinmagazine.com/ workoutonline
BY KASIA PAWLOWSKAAmong the many things COVID-19 has disrupted is our fitness rou tine. The majority of us are now confined to our homes and unfor tunately, gyms and group workout classes don’t constitute essential needs. While many local trainers and fitness instructors are stream ing live classes online, with family and work to tend to, those start times don’t always work. To get a workout when it best suits you, try some of these free or low-cost fitness apps.
For All Around Fitness Down Dog App
With more than 60,000 different configurations, Down Dog gives users the ability to build their ideal practice. Choose from one of six different teachers to be guided by a voice that really speaks to you (even change the language of your instruc tor), pick your music, and start your journey at whatever level and pace you feel comfortable with. All prac tices work to strengthen and stretch your back, ideal for those working from home in a not-ideal workspace. Visit the app's Facebook page to join a group. downdogapp.com
For Live and On-Demand Classes
Obé Fitness Obé, an acronym for Our Body Electric, offers more than 100 live classes available per week — usu ally in the mornings for all U.S. time zones — complete with the energy of an in-person class with real-time instructor motivational shout outs. New on-demand classes that range from dance choreo, cardio boxing, Pilates, barre and more are added daily. Obé’s signature 28-minute classes are always there and they all fit into the busiest of schedules. obefitness.com
For Kids GoNoodle
GoNoodle helps parents get kids moving with short, interactive activities ranging from 1 to 20 min utes. Designed with K-5 classrooms in mind, this free, research-based app is a favorite of parents with high-energy, distracted kids and less physically active ones alike. GoNoodle takes no time to set up and all of its activities are made to be healthy for the body, engaging and beneficial to the brain. Your kids will love the wacky charac ters, including a dancing hot dog. gonoodle.com
NO GYM? NO PROBLEM.
Stay fit while staying inside with the help of these apps.
Weed On Demand
California has deemed cannabis an essential service in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. Here’s how to (safely) take advantage.
BY ZACK RUSKINWhile restaurants pivot to take-out or delivery and local entertainment venues sit empty or shutter in the wake of shelter-in-place orders, many in the cannabis industry are still trying to figure out exactly what role they may have to play in the immediate, yet uncertain, future.
In San Francisco, a shelter in place issued by Mayor London Breed on March 16 raised the ire of some after initially failing to include the cannabis industry on the city’s list of essential services. By the following day, the designa tion had been amended, with San Francisco’s D e partment of Public Health clarifying that licensed pot shops would be permitted to con tinue operations in a post on Twitter.
O n March 19, Governor Gavin Newsom effectively placed the entirety of California under a stay-at-home order. As of now, dis pensaries have been deemed essential at a s t atewide level and are operating with modi fied capacities and restrictions. In many c ases, that means relegating sales to delivery and curbside pick-up only (the latter thanks to a temporary provision authorized by the California Bureau of Cannabis Control).
Meanwhile, sales have positively spiked as consumers look to stock up or alleviate bore dom and anxiety as a result of being forced to stay home.
In Marin County, where delivery remains the only recreational option available (aside from growing it yourself), San Rafael’s Nice Guys Delivery was receiving up to 60 new orders an hour on the day the shelter-in-place man date was issued, according to a recent M a rin Independent Journal article. The statewide essential designation means that those wor ried their access to legal weed will soon run dry likely have nothing to fear. Visit this link for local delivery services: marinmagazine.com/weed.
LOCAL ROOTS. LOCAL SPIRIT.
WHATEVER YOUR DAY CALLS FOR DISCOVER IT HERE Gilbert Salon Manij Jamba Johann Paul of
SCREEN BREAK
BY KASIA PAWLOWSKASolve a Crossword Puzzle
While jigsaw puzzles are great, sometimes making enough space for them can be a challenge and sadly, sometimes pieces get lost — leading to the opposite of calm. Crossword puzzles require almost no extra space, help you expand your vocabu lary and actually combat the onset of Alzheimer’s
Assemble a Jigsaw Puzzle
A favorite pastime and fixture of every upstate cabin, puzzles are a ter rific way to chip away an afternoon. Not only are they a great way to con nect with your family, solving a jigsaw also helps improve your short-term memory among a host of other ben efits. We love this one from Lemonade
Pursuits that’s specifically designed to quiet the mind — not only is it made
in the U.S.A. and eco-friendly, but this woman-owned company gives 10 percent of every dollar spent to female artists.
Organize your Life
Clutter can trigger the release of the stress hormone cortisol, which can increase tension and anxiety and lead to unhealthy habits, so why not reduce clutter and anxiety in one swoop? Marie Kondo’s principles — which she calls the KonMari Method — don’t adhere to a less-is-more philosophy but instead encourage the keeping of items, as long as they spark joy. She says, “In my home, I’m surrounded by my favorite things, including 15 pairs of chopstick rests.”
Entertain a Green Thumb
Are the photos of empty store shelves making you feel anxious? How could
they not be? The good news is that almost anyone can grow good eats, whether you have a small balcony or rolling acres. And by planting produce you save money, conserve energy resources, reconnect with the earth and help teach the younger generation where food actually comes from.
Get into Podcasts
All your friends are doing it. You hear them saying how they’ve turned off the TV and tuned in to podcasts — a brave new world full of any kind of content you can imagine: history, comedy, fiction, music, politics. Instead of watching, they are now listening — and loving it. We love Song Exploder, 99% Invisible and Ear Hustle (made at nearby San Quentin), to name just a few. Tune in and find your favorites.
Try Birding
Make gazing productive and embrace birding, one of the fastest grow ing outdoor activities in the country. According to a U.S. Fish and Wildlife survey, there’s been a 9 percent increase in the people who observe wildlife (most of them birders) from 2001 to 2011. Jeff Gordon, president of the American Birding Association, says he’s seen his membership grow by almost 10 percent.
Howling at the Moon
Residents show support by making their voices heard.
—K.P.
The new coronavirus is caus ing people around the world to speak out in novel ways. Italians took to their balco nies to applaud health care workers, and sang to lift each other’s spirits. Spaniards cheered for medical workers as well, and banged pots to protest the royal household.
Here in Marin things took a wilder turn when Mill Valley residents decided to howl in support of health care workers. The ritual has since spread around the county, and howls can be heard just about anywhere in Marin at 8 p.m. every night of the week.
“My mother, Alice Long, turned 96 on April 1, and we reached out to the commu nity, asking everyone to sing 'Happy Birthday' to her, after that night’s howl,” says Mill Valley resident Anni Long. “Everyone joined in, she blew out her birthday cake can dles, and you could hear the voices throughout Cascade Canyon and up the ridge. The smile on her face lit up the dark.” Tim Hyer’s family of six have also taken a lot of joy in the new custom. “The semi nary bells in San Anselmo can be heard from our house as they ring eight times, and then the howling begins,” says Hyer. Hugh Kuhn started the howl movement in his Mill Valley hometown after reading about how people were making noise in Europe. “We're in this together, but we're apart,” he says. “People can be half a mile away and I can't see them, but I can hear them."
Step away from the computer and try one of these stress-relieving activities.
Visit the link to also see what your local museums are up to and how you can support all of these critical institutions. marinmagazine.com/ culture
ANIMAL ATTRACTION
BY DANIEL JEWETTMonterey Bay Aquarium
Beyond the exhibits, this aquarium conducts worldclass research and conservation, and helped create momentum for the establishment of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Online, check out the Animals A-to-Z section to learn about more than 204 creatures or explore 10 different web cams featuring everything from jellyfish to sharks. montereybayaquarium.org
Oakland Zoo
Founded in 1928, the zoo now sits on 100 acres and has 750 animals in its picturesque Oakland Hills location. It also operates a LEED-certified, 17,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art veterinary hospital. Online, visitors can watch black bears, elephants, sun bears and condors on the zoo’s web cams. There are also almost daily postings on its Facebook page. oaklandzoo.org
San Diego Zoo
Would you believe 11 groups of animals at this worldfamous zoo have live cams? Get wild with baboons, penguins, pandas, polar beers, apes, koalas, giraffes, burrowing owls, elephants, tigers and condors. The hardest part is choosing which animal to start with. zoo.sandiegozoo.org
Shedd Aquarium, Chicago
For cuteness overload, nothing beats watching Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium’s penguins take “field trips” to visit other animals and exhibits at the aquarium. See this and more on the museum’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages. There is also a Sea Curious YouTube series for kids and access to the Underwater Beauty exhibit. sheddaquarium.org
Field Museum, Chicago
Field’s goal is to inspire visitors to become curious and learn about nature and culture. Online, watch videos by chief curiosity correspondent (now isn’t that a cool job title?) Emily Graslie or take short lessons on topics like dinosaurs, science and world cultures. But before you do any of that, be sure to first ask a few questions of Máximo the Titanosaur — he’s the largest dinosaur to have ever roamed our planet. fieldmuseum.org
Beat the stay-at-home blues with webcams from these zoos and aquariums.Jellyfish at the Monterey Bay Aquarium
Third Act
Publishing a book at age 51 was a big accomplishment. Inspiring women of her peer group to do the same thing is a bigger one — but now just might be the perfect time to do it.
BY HEATHER YOUNGFour years ago, at 51, I pub lished my first novel. I did all the promotional things an author is supposed to do — I held readings at bookstores and tweeted the things my publicist told me to tweet — but my favorite thing to do was visit book clubs. Bookstores were scary, filled with strangers on metal chairs who stared at me while I read at them from behind a podium. Book groups were filled with women my age sipping wine in
well-appointed living rooms. I went to any book club, anywhere, that would have me.
After a while, I began to notice something. The women in these reading groups asked about the book I wrote, but what they really wanted to know was how I’d writ ten it. Over glasses of chardonnay they rested their elbows on their knees and asked how I’d gone from a 40-something mom to a 50-something published author.
Some, like me, had left careers to stay home with children. Others were three decades into careers they loved, but didn’t want to stay in forever. How did you make such a radical change? they asked. The most important words dangled unspoken: at your age. Although we can’t physically go to book clubs and book stores now, we can still start that novel — in fact, now just might be the perfect time.
This is what I told them.
I was 43. My kids were in middle school and the busy elementary years had given way to empty days and frantic afternoon carpools. Suddenly, I had too much of some thing I hadn’t had enough of since I left my law practice to be a stay-athome parent: time. I could go back to law, but I’d been gone 10 years, and the professional gap was daunt ing. I thought about becoming a teacher, which seemed like hard but satisfying work. Then a friend asked
me a simple question: “What would you do if you could do anything?”
Without hesitation I said, “Write a novel.” “So do that,” she said.
I have to admit I jumped on this idea partly because it seemed easier than becoming a teacher. To become a teacher, I’d have to get a teaching certificate, maybe even a master’s degree, and I was already 43, for heaven’s sake. I knew how to put words into sentences, and I’d read thousands of books, so how hard could it be to write a novel? I could do it in six months, I figured. By the time I was 50 I’d have written a dozen and I’d be famous and suc cessful and rich. This was my plan.
Unfortunately, it turns out that the only people who can write a book in six months are savants and liars. After a whole year, I had only managed three chapters. Clearly, I wasn’t going to write a dozen books in my lifetime, much less in half a decade. But I’d fallen in love with writing and somewhere in
that year I’d stopped looking at the calendar. So when I heard about a long-distance MFA program, I applied. Two years later, I had that degree and 13 chapters. Another year passed, then another. I went to writers’ workshops, wrote some more, read books on the craft and wrote some more. I wrote when the kids were at school. I wrote in the car when they were at soccer prac tice. I wrote until the characters in my head were almost as real as the husband and children sitting at my dinner table.
“How’s the book coming?” asked friends in the grocery store. “You’re not getting any younger, you know.”
“Fine,” I said, as two years became four and four became six and six became seven. It wasn’t fine. It was hard. But I still loved it, so I kept going, even as my 40s ticked by.
I was 50 when I finally sent the book into the world to see if any one would publish it. The work of my heart, hanging on an email.
I did not think of the seven years I’d given to it or how much time I had left. I had pulled a story, com plete and entire, from the dregs of my mind. The journey had been worth it, and if I had to self-publish the damned thing and browbeat everyone I knew into buying it, that’s what I would do.
Then a publisher bought it, for real, actual money, and in the moment it took to sign the contract I went from a mom with a weirdly obsessive hobby to a professional writer who got paid for her work. A year later, I was standing, blinking back tears, in Book Passage with my book in my hands. End of story, I’d say, as the women in the wellappointed living rooms nodded. They’d asked me how I’d done it, and I’d told them.
But that’s not what I’d tell them now. At least, it’s not all I’d tell them.
Last summer I spent a weekend with my seven oldest friends. We listened to ’80s music and drank rum and Cokes, but we spent more time talking about the future than about the past. About retirement, children leaving, marriages ending, parents aging. As we sat around the kitchen table I saw our lives laid out as though they were a play. We’d met in the first act. We’d crossed to the second together, breathless with excitement. Now the second act, with all its working and marry ing and parenting, was ending, and I saw that my friends were afraid. They weren’t sure where the road they’d traveled for 30 years was taking them, or how short that dis tance might be.
But I wasn’t afraid, and suddenly I understood something. During the years I’d spent becoming an author, I’d completely forgotten where I was in the play of my life. That was the secret the book clubs had really wanted to hear. The big, fat, triple-password key to how I’d done something that if you’d asked me before I started, I would have said was only possible when I was in my 20s.
So, here’s what I would tell them now. Sometimes, life unfolds in a way that allows us to do something crazy when we least expect it. Children grow up and leave us with less laundry to do. Careers wind down and younger hands take the baton we pass. Losses like divorce or the deaths of our parents leave gaping spaces in our emotional houses. How we fill them is up to us. We can run for office, start a business, write a novel or learn to knit. It doesn’t matter. So long as we don’t live like we’re trapped between 10-foot guardrails and running out of road. Because it turns out the secret to living your third act is to treat it as though it were your first. As though you were 22 again, stupid and brave in equal measure, with all the time in the world.
I’m 55 now, and my second book comes out this summer. This one took three years, which is better than seven, so maybe I’ll have three books done by the time I’m 60. But I don’t think about that. Because if I’d thought about decades as deadlines, I’d never have written even one.
Because it turns out the secret to living your th ird act is to treat it as though it were your first.
A Difficult
BY MIMI TOWLEMarin County’s public health officer discusses his experience as an early coronavirus patient.
Roughly a week after a March press confer ence hosted by S.F. Mayor London Breed announcing a regional shelter-in-place order, Matt Willis, Marin County’s public health officer and a Marin native, started to feel like he was coming down with something. With chills and a dry cough, he went back to his San Anselmo home, took his temperature, discovered he had a fever and called his doctor. She recommended COVID-19 testing based on the possibility of exposure to the disease and his symptoms — the test came back positive.
Before the diagnosis, Willis had visited multiple hospitals and first responders and, ironically, went to the aforementioned packed press conference as part of his work responsibilities. There’s no way to know where he picked up the COVID-19 virus but, as a physician and epidemiologist, the moment he had the first few symptoms he was tested and knew it was vital that he isolated himself in an effort to keep his wife and three children safe. He knew the pandemic was on its way, he didn’t expect to be one of the county’s first cases.
Did you see the COVID-19 pandemic coming?
As soon as the reports started coming out of China about a novel respiratory virus in early January, we of course started paying very close attention. At the beginning, the news was mainly circulating in public health circles, but we were very concerned. It quickly became clear that the virus was spreading from person to person across the region, and causing serious disease, hospitalizations and deaths. From the rate this was spreading internationally, and the fact that we’re in a region with a lot of international travel, we were fully bracing ourselves and doing every thing we could to prepare.
Are you working with neighboring health officials?
Yes, we have strong collaborative relation ships with health officers across the Bay Area. Mainly because we share the same challenges and are essentially caring for the same larger population. The Bay Area is a single human eco system, especially with infectious diseases. We talk frequently, share data and work on strategy together. All are physicians and most have back grounds in infectious diseases or epidemiology.
The trust, respect and healthy debate within this small group was a huge factor in moving forward quickly as a region when the time came.
How did you stay up to date?
I wasn’t looking to the mainstream media for information as much as public health authorities. When I did look at the media it was too confusing to sift out what mattered and what was true. It's hard to be clear headed in decision making when the information is superficial, dramatic and all over the map — from “it’s a hoax” to “it’s the end of the world.” Fortunately, the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), WHO (World Health Organization) and academic centers offer balanced and factual information. We also built systems for track ing respiratory disease and COVID-19 activity in Marin, which was really the most important information for us. It’s a fine line between seeming alarmist and sending the message that something big is coming and we need to make some radical changes in order to save lives.
Did you ever imagine you’d see so many people in Marin wearing masks?
We’ve had pandemic response plans and rehearsing them foreshadowed what we’re see ing now. Masks, school closures, shelter in place — we’ve practiced these scenarios, but really hoped we’d never have to act on them.
How do you think you contracted it?
I don’t know. Most people get symptoms within a week of being exposed. I was doing a lot of work with our hospitals, with first responders and traveled to parts of the Bay Area that had much higher COVID-19 incidence. We also know from the testing results from our drive-through testing site that the majority of our cases in Marin dur ing that time were people who were exposed in our community. I could have been exposed any where. In some ways, I’m the example of why the shelter-in-place order was so important.
What is the biggest misconception about the severity of the physical effects?
Some people have no symptoms, some have mild symptoms. But a significant number get hit with worsening respiratory symptoms in the second week, which may be a viral pneumonia. For me, and others I’ve talked with, the worst was the constant tightness in the chest and the sense that air itself irritates the lungs. What was most unexpected was how long this period of fevers and weakness lasted — about 10 days.
It’s a fine line between seeming alarmist and sending the message that something big is coming.
some of the perspective we gained during this time of slower living and not rush back to a pace and patterns that are clearly less healthy.
What changes would you like to see immediately to ensure this happens?
On a policy level, we’re seeing some changes in federal and state funding and support for public health and health care, or to ensure kids who rely on free school meals can eat when schools close, but it’s framed as crisis response or emergency support. The steps we’re taking to close gaps during the crisis need to be built into new and permanent infrastructure. On a per sonal level, we all have a choice about our reset point, and we don’t want to waste this chance. Families have spent more time together having meals, talking and there has been less time spent driving around.
What did you miss most under quarantine? Being in isolation in my own house, separated from my wife and kids for two weeks was really hard.
How did the disease progress with you?
I first felt chills and achiness that came on quickly, followed in a few hours by a dry cough. I was tested the next day and received the results a day later. I felt OK and did some work from home for a few days before it really hit. About five days in, it took a turn for the worse with more shortness of breath and way more fatigue. Even getting out of bed was a challenge. My fevers had gone away, but started spiking again. After two weeks, the first sign of recovery was that I could get up and walk without being out of breath. From there, each day was better. I was tested for immunity, and thankfully, had a strong signal on the test for the protective antibodies. I wasn’t surprised, since my system finally fought this off. So, it looks like I now have added protection for the rest of this battle.
Do you have any idea what our new normal will be, and how long shelter in place will last? Unwinding of the shelter in place will be approached carefully and in stages. Right now, we’re learning so much about how this virus is moving through our communities, and what’s working and what isn’t. Our initial strategy has been successful, bought us time and inter rupted transmission when we had been seeing uncontrolled spread. But we can’t stay locked down forever. Our health care system is now better prepared, we have more testing capac ity, we know as a community how to do social
distancing. We’re in a much better place to begin to relax some of the restrictions that hurt us most. The goal is to slowly build back while moni toring case counts very closely so we can adjust our approach to prevent any second surges.
What did we learn from this situation that we can carry forward?
We learned a lot about how to protect ourselves from infections — the things that used to be seen as OCD-type (obsessive-compulsive disorder) behaviors, like wiping surfaces and washing hands compulsively, are now common. I hope we all gained respect for the devastating effects of epidemics, and that this will translate into an uptake of prevention measures, including vac cinations. This has been a giant stress test for our social systems and has diagnosed some real weaknesses. Just getting back to normal isn’t the goal. The goal is building something better.
I hope we learned that we need to keep public health and emergency response systems strong and well-resourced. We learned that we need to strengthen support for our elders across the board, including working to improve conditions in facilities where people live out their last years.
As we build back, I hope there will be room for carefully considering what we value most — this time of doing less and consuming less has taught us something about what we really need, or don’t need as much as we thought. I hope we can keep
What surprised you the most on the positive and negative side?
On the positive side, I was really able to wipe the mental slate clean — I wasn’t able to read or watch TV for a lot of it. So, it was kind of like a long meditation with my only contact being my family, messages and good wishes or meals from friends and neighbors. In that sense, it was restful and renewing. On the negative side, the uncertainty about how it might turn, especially with the pneumonia, and the possibility of need ing to leave my family to go into the hospital, and where that might lead, was a fear.
What did you do to care for yourself?
My team at the county is so great, and they really encouraged me to take every step to rest and recover. I cared for myself mainly by taking the time to rest and lay low. And staying hydrated.
What did you read or watch that you thought was the most helpful for you to understand your situation?
I had a lot of doctor friends sending me arti cles about various strategies — the take home seemed to be I just needed to rest and wait it out. It was hard to be patient and accept there wasn’t a way to fast forward through the process. It was reassuring to see the steps our local hospitals were taking — I knew they were well prepared and, if the need arose, I’d be in good hands here.
THE WOMEN OF MARIN
From the environment to voting rights to politics, the county and the country would look much different if it weren’t for these local female visionaries.
Clockwise from top left: National Women's Party members meet in Colorado Springs; Caroline Sealy Livermore; Elizabeth Thacher Kent in action; Sepha Evers; Elizabeth Thacher Kent; Vera Schultz; Kent and others at a National Woman’s Party meeting in the early 1920s; Elizabeth Thacher Kent; a meeting of the Marin Garden Club.
Ever feel grateful that Stinson Beach is a pristine natural coastal park rather than a Coney Island–style boardwalk? Ever notice how Marin’s central throughway, Highway 101, offers wideopen views of Richardson Bay, Mount Tamalpais and Big Rock Ridge, unmarred by ugly billboards? And have you hiked, biked or camped overnight on Angel Island and wondered how we Marinites got so lucky? Well, it was not luck that made it Marin County what it is today. It was badass women.
From a leading su ff ragist, who organized in Marin and then went to Washington to secure women’s right to vote, to a colorful madam turned Sausalito mayor (at age 72) who hated bureaucracy and championed law enforcement. From one of the state’s first female undertakers to a renowned female blacksmith (both suffragists) to the county’s first female supervisor, who would not take no for an answer and got her male counterparts to approve the Frank Lloyd Wright–designed building that would become an architectural treasure, Marin history is a tale of determined women, some born into privilege, some scrappy bootstrap pers, who had a particularly effective combination of moxie and vision.
Yet today, even as we enjoy the fruits of their fearlessness, most of us do not know their names or the details of the battles they waged. In the words of Marin County Library’s California Room digital historian Carol Acquaviva, “There are so many women, midcentury and before, who did a tremendous amount of important work here in Marin, but they didn’t get credit because they were only referred to as ‘Mrs. so and so.’ ”
THE ENVIRONMENTALISTS
A STONE’S THROW from a major metro politan area, Marin remains one of the most picturesque counties in the world, defined by stretches of undeveloped coastal beaches, rolling green hills and ridges, and uninterrupted views of both San Francisco Bay and the Paci fic. This is not by accident. In the mid-1930s, Caroline Sealy Livermore was living in a large home on several acres on Canyon Road in Ross. Originally from Texas, Livermore was Vassar College educated and then raised five sons in San Francisco and Marin with her business man husband, Norman Livermore. She was a woman of means and could easily have been a woman of leisure, but that was not her way. According to Vicki Nichols, a board member
and historian for the Marin Conservation League, which Livermore founded, her nature was to organize people and get things done. And Livermore’s singular goal was to preserve the natural world and make it accessible to all.
“Caroline Livermore could have been doing more frivolous things. She didn’t have to work, but she made it her mission to preserve and increase beauty — to support the arts and to save land so that anyone of any income could have access, for the civic good and for future generations,” Nichols says.
In the 1930s, most communities did not have an orientation toward urban planning, but across the nation a “beauti fication” move ment was growing, and it captured Livermore’s
attention. She traveled cross-country to gather information and inspiration. As Nichols found in researching archival documents about Livermore’s life, on November 5, 1934, Livermore attended a Marin Garden Club meet ing and brought up the impending opening of the Golden Gate Bridge (it would open in 1937). She pointed out that there would be an increase in car tra ffic to bucolic Marin. “‘We need to do something,’ she told the club. ‘OK, Caroline, you form the committee,’ the Garden Club mem bers told her. So that is exactly what she did,” Nichols says.
Livermore teamed with club members Sepha Evers, Portia Forbes and Helen Van Pelt. They were concerned that Marin would become a county of sprawl like Los Angeles or of cheap tourist development like Coney Island. According to Sepha Evers’s son Bill Evers, the team was constantly on the telephone, working relentlessly to create county and state parks. They raised seed money and pressured the county to match their efforts to establish what we know today as Samuel P. Taylor State Park, Tomales Bay, Stinson Beach and Angel Island, whose single peak, Mount Caroline Livermore, has the conservation maven’s name.
Livermore was known as a “nodder,” says Nichols. It is said she would attend Marin County Board of Supervisor meetings and sit in the front row in a big hat. If she liked what was happening, she would conspicu ously nod her approval. If she did not approve, she would shake her head. Her presence felt by all, Livermore was able to get a historic local zoning ordinance passed to remove what she called “ugly roadside billboards” in Marin County.
Sepha Evers Caroline Sealy LivermoreTODAY MORE WOMEN cast their votes in state and national elections than men do, so it is hard to imagine that just a century ago women were not allowed to vote in this country. California was the sixth state to pass women’s suffrage laws (Proposition 4, in 1911, nine years before the national Su ff rage Amendment became law in 1920), and we can trace the suffrage move ment’s roots and progress to some key Marin County women.
In the early 1900s few women had pro fessional careers, and even fewer owned businesses. As recounted in research by oral historian and writer Marily Geary, Mill Valley resident Lillian Harris Coffi n, an undertaker, understood that founding a women-ownedand-operated business would advance the su ff rage cause, proving a woman’s capability and capacity to participate and lead in the economy. In 1908, Coffin, then president of
the Equal Suffrage League of San Francisco, formed the California Woman’s Undertaking Company, the fi rst such business run entirely by women in California. Around the same time, two other Marin women also forged their way into male-dominated businesses. Lillian McNeill Palmer, a blacksmith, became a renowned metalworker, and Palmer’s life long partner, Emily Eolian Williams, started her own architecture firm and became one of the first female architects in Northern California. Geary cites the Mill Valley Record of September 1, 1911, which described Palmer speaking at an event on a dance platform across from the Mill Valley Depot as “the fi rst move of the local su ff ragists to coax the men of Mill Valley to their side.”
Palmer and Williams were contemporaries and fellow su ff rage activists with another cou ple, Lillian O’Hara and Grace Livermore (no
THE SUFFRAGISTS
relation to Caroline Livermore), who owned a summer property in San Anselmo. According to Geary, O’Hara and Livermore hosted a suf frage fundraising party in the fall before the October vote on Proposition 4 and the Mill Valley Record reported that on Sept 7, 1911, “a big four-horse bus, decorated in the yellow suf frage color” took paying guests up to O’Hara and Livermore’s garden enclave. Archival cam paign slogans from the time that made clear the su ff ragists’ demands: “For the Long Work Day/For the Taxes We Pay/For the Laws We Obey/We Want Something to Say!” For Geary, researching the activities of these early Marin County women truly brought home the chal lenges they faced. “It really struck me that they had no agency,” she says. “They got together and organized, but then had to get the men to vote. Imagine if you felt strongly about something, but if you wanted anything to get
Marin Garden Clubdone you had to do it through your husband or brother or father.”
According to the San Francisco Call of April 10, 1911, while the garden parties were happening in San Anselmo, Elizabeth Thacher Kent, a philanthropist, activist and mother of seven from Kentfield, was organizing “prominent members of the Ross and San Rafael smart set” at the Tamalpais Club, where “men well-known in business and social circles urged [in favor of] the right of women to vote.” After women’s su ff rage became law in California, Kent moved with her husband, Congressman William Kent, to Washington, D.C., where she became a leader in the national women’s su ff rage movement. In a speech before the House of Representatives in 1912, Kent said, “[Abraham] Lincoln believed in government by the people. Women are people. We want to be recognized as people; we want our share of responsibility in the government under which we live.”
Laurie Thompson is librarian and historian at the Anne T. Kent California Room of the Marin County Free Library and greatly admires Kent’s approach to activism. “Elizabeth Thacher Kent was diplomatic and did things in a way where she didn’t burn bridges,” Thompson says. “And at the same time, she was strong and highly principled.” Kent, Thompson says, was arrested twice while demonstrating with other members of the National Woman’s Party at pro tests in front of the White House. She publicly opposed Woodrow Wilson, who at first was against women’s suffrage, even as her politi cian husband was campaigning for Wilson’s reelection. “That took courage,” says Nichols. “Even today that would take courage.” From 1912 to 1919, Kent gave speeches, testified before Congress and worked on su ff rage campaigns in 15 states, until fi nally, on August 18, 1920, the 19th amendment was ratifid.
WHILE LIVERMORE, KENT and other local activists came from wealthy families and were highly educated, other Marin County women rose from poverty and established themselves as local leaders and visionaries, paving the way for future generations of female politicians. Sally Stanford (née Mabel Janice Busby) was born in Baker City, Oregon, in 1903. In her auto biography The Lady of the House, she says she only attended school through the third grade. When her father died, she was responsible for bringing in money to support her mother and her four siblings, so she took odd jobs, such as caddying on a golf course. At 16, she eloped and began a life on the wrong side of the law, primarily as a bootlegger during Prohibition. Arrested 17 times over the course of 25 years, she noted she was only found guilty twice.
A larger-than-life character known for sass, wit and a sharp tongue, Stanford landed in Nob Hill in 1924, invested the money she’d made bootlegging in real estate, and soon became San Francisco’s most successful madam, at one point running 12 different bordellos. By 1949, amid a climate of increased harassment by local police and District Attorney Pat Brown, Stanford decided she needed a change of venue and moved to Sausalito, where she purchased the waterfront Valhalla Inn. A shrewd business woman and marketer, she drew celebrities like
THE POLITICIANS
Marlon Brando, Bing Crosby and Lucille Ball to her restaurant. Although Valhalla was purport edly only a fine dining establishment, a red light over the back door indicated otherwise.
Stanford evolved as she aged, becoming more and more interested in civic engagement. She ran unsuccessfully for Sausalito City Council five times — her platform promoted public toi lets and increased funds for law enforcement — until she was fi nally elected the sixth time, in 1972. Three years later, at 72, she became mayor. Despite her historically adversarial relationship with the police, Stanford earned a reputation as a pro-law-enforcement leader. At one point during her tenure, local historian Vicki Nichols says, there were women soliciting by the old bait shop in Sausalito, and Stanford had to send the police to round them up; “that was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do,” Stanford later remarked. She was also known as a compulsively charitable person who picked up the restaurant tab for veterans or paid for funerals of the homeless.
As Stanford made her mark in Sausalito, her contemporary, Vera Schultz, gained notoriety for becoming the first woman elected to the Marin County Board of Supervisors and the fi rst female supervisor in Northern California in 1952. Born Vera Lucille Smith in 1902, she was the youngest of eight children and grew
Elizabeth Thacher Kent handing out flyers and in portrait.up in Tonopah, Nevada and Dutch Flats, California, according to Marin Historical Society documents and the biography Vera Schultz, First Lady of Marin . Like Stanford, she lost her father early in life. She helped her mother run a boardinghouse and read voraciously, raised money for her own piano lessons, and found her way to University of Nevada, Reno, where she studied journalism and became editor of the campus newspaper. In 1926, she married Norman Schultz but kept the marriage a secret so she could keep her reporting job with the Oakland Post-Enquirer, a Hearst newspaper (Hearst would not employ married women).
The couple moved to Mill Valley in 1928 and Schultz took a position as assistant to the Superintendent of Schools. She became active in Democratic politics and was the fi rst woman elected to the Mill Valley City Council, beat ing six male contenders with 86 percent of the vote in 1946. She told the Marin Independent Journal that this landslide should have made her the de facto mayor, but the men would not allow it. In 1952, she won a seat as the first female on the Marin County Board of Supervisors, but encountered great resistance from the “Courthouse Gang,” the existing male guard of supervisors known for their pork barrel politics. At her first North Coast Counties Association of Supervisors meeting someone posted a “No Women Allowed” sign, and it was suggested she attend the wives’ fashion
luncheon instead. She tore the sign up and took her place at the meeting.
Schultz was a proponent of service and social reform in government, Nichols says, advocating affordable housing develop ments and racial integration at a time when entrenched politicians looked to sell off land for profit and regularly reaped spoils. She had no problem fighting for her vision, and she would publicly embarrass her counterparts for their corruption. Among dozens of accom plishments that helped to create the county as we know it today, she established the Marin County Parks and Recreation Department, the Public Works Department, the County Personnel Commission and the Public Health Department. She spearheaded the opening
of Marin's first school for disabled children, helped establish the Meals on Wheels program and championed the purchase of military land to build Marin City, with a dream of creating a racially integrated low- and middle-income housing project.
In 1957, Schultz proposed that Frank Lloyd Wright, the most prominent architect of the era, design the new Marin County Civic Center and Courthouse complex, to be built on ranch property just north of San Rafael. Schultz’s opponents on the Board of Supervisors publicly accused Wright of being a Communist, which prompted the architect to storm out of the meeting held to approve his plan. But Schultz would not back down; she shamed Wright’s accusers and, in the end, brought him back into contract to design what has become Marin County’s iconic architectural landmark.
Marin, the physical setting and the quality of life we all share today, would not exist if not for the legacy of these fierce women. “We have so many things to thank them for,” historian Marilyn Geary says. Archival newspaper articles reveal the general disdain that male contempo raries, including newspaper reporters, had for such women, especially suffragists, who were seen as immoral; today it is hard to imagine how determined they had to be and the societal laws and obstacles they overcame to accomplish their goals. “These women are heroes, each of them,” Marin Conservation League’s Nichols says. “And it is empowering for everybody who lives in Marin to know who they were.”
Vera Schultz files campaign papers with the Marin County clerk in 1964. Marin City high-rise towers as they looked right after construction around 1960. Right: Vera Schultz.NATURE’S NURTURERS
BY CHRISTINA MUELLERChanneling ancestral pioneers is practically built into the DNA of the farmers and ranchers of West Marin. Dating back to the late 1800s, the great-grandparents of the current crop of farm ers in the region often left Europe together, set ting out for a life in the United States where they could build farms and community. Five and six generations on, that pioneering spirit is still going strong in West Marin. Longtime heritage farms are still producing dairy, beef and ducks, but are building entirely new businesses sourced from these agricultural products so central to earlier generations’ livelihoods. This new wave of farm ers includes men, women and families — but it is the women who are increasingly taking the reins.
WOMEN ARE BRINGING INNOVATIVE IDEAS AND TAKING THE REINS AT THE FAMILY FARM.
DUCKS IN A ROW
“When I was in high school, I never would’ve guessed I would be back here working full-time and loving it,” says Jennifer Reichardt of Peta luma’s Liberty Ducks. A fifth-generation duck farmer, Reichardt grew up under the aegis of her dad, Jim, who split off from Reichardt Duck Farm in 1992 to start Liberty Ducks. While both farms raise Pekin ducks, Liberty gets its breeding stock from France and gives the birds more time to grow, an average of about three more weeks. The result is a meatier, more European style of bird with ex ceptional flavor and a pronounced layer of fat un der the skin, a bird Julia Child would approve of. In fact, Child, the renowned culinary teacher and cookbook author, visited the Reichardt farm in the early 1970s, a time when duck was usually only served either at Chinese or French restaurants.
The shift at Liberty to a meatier duck paral leled the rise of the California Cuisine movement. Chefs from restaurants like Baywolf in Oakland (since closed), one of Liberty’s first customers, came calling. “Alice Waters and Jeremiah Tower at Chez Panisse were trying to find sources. It was a very exciting time,” Reichardt says.
Reichardt left for college, coming back to the farm to help the family with whatever projects needed taking care of. She developed an interest in one of Sonoma’s best-known value-added agricul tural products — wine — and after graduating from UC Santa Barbara, worked seven grape harvests in three different countries. She also passed two levels of the Certified Sommelier Examination. “Every year [between 2011 and 2016], I got more involved and invested,” she says.
In 2016, the same month that she moved back to the farm full time, Reichardt launched Raft Wines, raft being a word for a group of waterfowl. “It all happened at once,” she says. Working with a custom crush facility, Reichardt produced five wines that first year.
In the summer of 2019, Reichardt married Mike Dmytrenko, a man she met while they both were interns at Littorai Wines. But Reichardt keeps a steady eye on the future of the family business, now looking at how to make the operation as environmentally-friendly as possible. “Ranching is so hard,” she says. “We take a life in order to eat, but we share a philosophy: you can still eat meat, but eat less of it and choose meat raised with care of the land and care of the animal.” libertyducks.com, drink.raft.wine
ANGELA DECENZO (OPENER, THIS PAGE); KAREN PAVONE (OPPOSITE)CATTLE CALLING
A 17th generation Petaluman and fifth-generation cattlewoman, Julie Rossotti of Petaluma’s Rossotti Ranch knew what she wanted to do at the age of 5. “I was drawn to the cows,” Rossotti says. “I would hide from the school bus so I could stay home and help on the ranch. I have literally been by their side my whole life.” Rossotti’s great-grandfather and grandfather started the ranch with dairy cattle, but her parents wanted to switch it up and spent the past 45 years establishing a high-quality herd of beef cattle on the family ranches.
Preserving farmland is one of Rossotti’s pas sions and her five years working at Marin Agricul tural Land Trust (MALT) in the early aughts gave her the space to ask if working with cattle was her life’s work. “I found myself using all my vacation time and days off back at the ranch,” she joked. “I really missed being there.”
As the family considered the best way to tran sition the ranch to the next generation, Rossotti’s
MALT and farmers market experiences proved invaluable. “I really wanted to be involved with the end product.” The question was how to get there. The family’s end product had traditionally been an eight-month old calf, the age it weans from its mother. To raise these calves to adult age would require more land, land the ranch did not have. “My family put so much time and effort into making these cattle who they are. I wanted to make a high-quality beef product that worked with our footprint.”
Soon Rossotti discovered vitellone, or beef that is harvested when the animal is a little older (about 10 months). Though the U.S. Department of Agriculture insists that Rossotti call the product veal, it can be more precisely called beef veal or vi tellone because of the animal’s age and rearing — calves used for veal are typically younger than six months old. This more mature calf still lives beside its mother and does not require additional land or
feed, and the end product is lean yet iron-dense. “My family did not need to change the operation we worked so hard to build,” Rossotti says.
Rossotti credits her mom, Dolores, for pro viding the ideal role model for her work as a rancher. They have a strong mother-daughter connection and Rossotti’s parents ran their busi ness as equal partners. “Seeing another woman doing that, doing the same things my dad was doing — driving tractors or cattle — there was no distinction that ‘oh, she’s a woman,’ ” Ros sotti says. “I saw that a woman can do anything she chooses to do, even if the ag industry is not always receptive to that. It was a daily reassur ance that gender doesn’t matter.”
Look for Rossotti at the Sunday farmers market in San Rafael and her products at Bay Area restau rants (as and when they open) such as Acquerello, Cotogna, Chez Panisse and Juanita and Maude. rossottiranch.com
Chilean bride who came to meet her groom in Bo dega Bay, the Bodega Red was once widely grown, but is now largely forgotten as a food crop. With Loren’s regenerative agriculture knowledge as a guide, could the sisters bring back the more sus tainable potato crop and help preserve the land and watershed? Another idea: could they make vodka from the starchy Bodega Red?
More research ensued. The Poncias turned to Slow Food Sonoma North, a group that had worked to save the Bodega Red from extinction and investigated work by agricultural scientist Luther Burbank, who also apparently had suc cess developing the Burbank Russet on the now fallow land in the region. Other locally grown potatoes, such as the Tomales Queen (also known as the British Queen) were once suc cessful here, too.
The name Poncia is likely already a familiar one to Marin foodies. Loren Poncia runs Stemple Creek Ranch with his wife Lisa, the most recent generation of Poncias to ranch around Tomales since Angelo Poncia first emigrated there in the late 1800s. “Angelo came through Ellis Island with Karen Bianchi’s great-grandfather; they were friends,” says Melissa Poncia Williams, who co-founded Poncia Spirits with her sister, Jessica Poncia Valentine. A farmhand before he became a farmer, Angelo raised chickens and dairy cows and grew potatoes and wheat. “There were many potatoes,” Jessica says, adding that run-off from tilling the soil filled the creeks with silt, a problem the industry shared with another endeavor. “It is a big part of the region’s history along with the dairies,” Jessica says.
The two sisters, who grew up on the family ranch but no longer live there (Melissa lives in Novato, Jessica lives in Bend, Oregon), were
Potatoes once grew prodigiously in the hills of West Marin. Thought to have arrived in the re gion via seeds sewn into the hem of the skirt of a THE SPIRIT
The sisters wanted to try planting a few of the Bodega Reds at their home ranch as a test. And with a little guidance from David Little of Little Organic Farm in Petaluma, their first crop yielded 11 pounds, just enough potatoes to make a single handle of vodka, about 40 shots. The vodka was distinctly citrusy, with notes of lemon and grape fruit. It was the first vodka produced with the ter roir of West Marin.
looking to re-establish their connection to the family’s West Marin land. After attending a University of California Cooperative Exten sion (UCCE) and MALT agricultural summit 15 years ago that focused on helping the next generation of Marin ranchers figure out how to sustain small family farms, the sisters started researching, digging into their family history to learn what Angelo and subsequent generations of Poncias produced. Cattle, dairy and potatoes kept appearing at the top of the list. With the help of the Tomales Regional History Center, they found an old Petaluma Argus Courier newspaper advertisement where their grandfather posted about the potato varietals he was work ing with. One of those varietals was known as the Bodega Red.
To plant sufficient potatoes to provide a big enough yield for a vodka production crop, the Poncias are continuing their quest for the ideal potato to plant in West Marin. Vince Trotter, Agricultural Ombudsman, UC Cooperative Ex tension, Marin County, found a seed bank in Wisconsin that had a tissue culture of the Brit ish Queen. And efforts continue to find a Bodega Red producer with enough seed for their first production crop. By planting once local potatoes, the Poncias hope to “add to the sustainability of our farm and to the viability of Marin as an agricultural producer.”
Until the potatoes are ready for planting, Poncia Spirits is setting up shop, getting ready for the first field-to-spirit alcohol produced in West Marin. “It was really important for us to do something that represented our roots and our love of this place and our history of ag,” Melissa says. “It’s our next 100-year plan.” Poncia Spirits vodka is expected to hit the market in 2022. ponciaspirits.com, stemplecreek.com
BIVALVE DAIRY
Just over a year ago, Karen Bianchini Taylor began producing cheese and butter from her Holstein herd, the products branded as Bivalve Dairy, named after her family ranch in Tomales Bay. But a fortuitous seat next to Sue Conley of Point Reyes Station’s Cowgirl Creamery at a Marin agricultural summit 10 years ago lead to Taylor’s herd supplying milk for Cowgirl’s renowned Red Hawk cheese.
When Cowgirl built a new production facility after their acquisition
NORTHERN CALIFORNIA’S MILKSHED
by the Swiss cheese conglomerate Emmi, Taylor bought the space they vacated and hired cheesemaker Blair Johnson. “My comfort zone is on the farm,” she says. Taylor, with her husband, John, and their growing family, took over the family farm in 2006 and converted it to an organic operation a few years later. John, an automation engineer with GE, helped update the farm’s systems to modern standards.
“He was instrumental in figuring out how to develop Bivalve as a brand beyond
our partnership with Cowgirl,” Taylor says. It wasn’t long before Bivalve ramped up from two products in 2019 to nine in 2020. bivalvedairy.com
POINT REYES FARMSTEAD CHEESE
In 1959, Bob and Dean Giacomini purchased what is now the fam ily’s Point Reyes farm and built a reputation for the delicious, aro matic milk produced by their dairy cows. A generation later, three of four Giacomini sisters — Jill (chief marketing officer),
Diana (chief financial officer) and Lynn (chief operations of ficer) — moved back and set about figuring out how to build a new kind of farm business based on their parents’ efforts. Product diversification and modernization of the farm’s tools were central to the new generation’s farm business strategy. The sisters also started making cheeses with the help of cheese maker Kuba Hem merling. Launched in 2000, the now iconic Original Blue is the one that got it all started, but the
number of cheeses has expanded beyond that initial offering. pointreyescheese.com
VALLEY FORD CHEESE
In 2010, Karen Bianchi-Moreda launched Valley Ford Cheese with milk from her family’s dairy farm. Heralded for her work creating Highway One and Estero Gold, among other award-winning cheeses, BianchiMoreda (who is Julie Rossotti’s cousin and whose son, Jim rents ranchland from the Poncia sisters), owns
the company, but is busy shepherding a generational shift in her family. Her son, Joe Moreda, has taken over as head cheesemaker while her other son, Jim, sets up as a dairyman. BianchiMoreda shifted gears, too, spending much of the past four years bringing a 5,500-square-foot building in the town of Valley Ford up to code before opening a restaurant and marketplace there. “Both my boys came home,” Bianchi-Moreda says. “I started this and they will finish it.” valleyfordcheese.com
CELEBRATING WOMEN
Whether they're running households or businesses, women bring a unique spirit and enthusiasm to their work. And in all they do, they elevate those around them while often finding their own successes along the way. When it comes to the local business world, there are plenty of successes to point to. In this section we invite you to get to know some pretty inspiring women.
Architectural Design Carpets Francisco Blvd Rafael, CA
Debbie Duering, the owner & CEO of Architectural Design Carpets, has been a leader in the Bay Area flooring industry since 1990. Kate Googins, ADC’s COO is a creative and dedicated woman who has been with the company for over 15 years. The two work hand-in-hand with the Bay Area’s top interior designers, architects, and realtors on residential and commercial properties. These ladies excel in the top flooring trends ranging from carpet and hardwood to custom rugs and commercial flooring. Using a woman’s ingenuity Debbie, Kate, and Nicole, a recent member of the senior sales team, constantly thinks outside the box and their attention to detail is not only a level of standard at Architectural Design Carpets but part of their creative nature.
When it comes to investing in flooring for any project, no matter how big or small, the foundation of your home starts with Architectural Design Carpets.
Magda Sarkissian
MARIN’S NATURALMagdalena Sarkissian has risen quickly to the top of her industry in Marin County— having closed over $100 million in sales in 2019 alone with the Sarkissian Bullock Team—but her road to success is a lifetime in the making. The real estate natural has a holistic approach to the business that has enabled her to consistently close deals and help the next generation of real estate buyers and sellers.
Magdalena grew up in the business (daughter of Lydia Sarkissian) and credits the exposure and experience for her innate ability to serve clients’ needs. “Residential real estate is an emotional industry. When a client vocalizes what they are feeling, you have to listen, create empathy and appreciate the opportunity to serve their needs and desires,” says Magdalena. “I learn everything I can about the person I am representing. I want them to feel mutual trust so that I can do what I do best for them.”
The ability to connect with people at all levels and having wisdom beyond her years have enabled Sarkissian to work with a variety of exclusive clients, expand the team’s business into new markets and bridge the generational gaps between seller and buyers. “Our clients near retirement have excellent spending power thanks to the appreciating values of their homes and their success in equity markets over the years. The next generation of luxury buyers have specific needs and wants to purchase a property that fits a particular lifestyle,” says Magdalena. “We understand those needs and have the resources and connections to pair clients accordingly.”
Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty 415.847.7913 • m.sarkissian@ggsir.com • Lic.# 02028978
Lydia Sarkissian
TRUSTED ADVISOR
You know her name, Lydia Sarkissian. It resonates here at home. It’s respected and recognized. It’s utilized and connected globally. You know her name—not her ego. There is no room for that in Mrs. Sarkissian’s world. Instead, her life’s work, expertise and integrity—and its subsequent earned trust—has poised Sarkissian, or as we all know her, endearingly gracious, by ‘Lydia’—for continued greatness.
$2 billion in career sales. Mother, boss, designer, chef, coach, confidant, advisor. Lydia is a force. She knows the value of knowing what one doesn’t know; always curious, evolving, adapting and growing. This unyielding discipline underlies Lydia’s life and work.
Lydia defines success by the way she impacts the lives around her. In addition to her contagious positive energy, she is relatable, gently assertive and provides invaluable expertise. That expertise is a product of her team’s shared experience and deep knowledge:
“My business partners Bill Bullock, Magdalena and I always make decisions together and advise one another on how best to serve our clients. Combining our strengths and talents, we are able to provide our clients with a clear direction and strategy, which in turn establishes their trust, and ultimately, delivers the best outcome.”
Enter Magdalena Sarkissian, the most recent addition to the Sarkissian Bullock team. She’s the heir apparent and apparently made for it, but rest assured, Lydia Sarkissian isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
“Working with my daughter is one of my greatest joys. She bridges the cultural networks, generations and lifestyles of our clientele in a seamless, natural way that just feels…right,” says Lydia. “We have fun in the process, too.”
Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty 415.517.7720 • l.sarkissian@ggsir.com • Lic.# 01159670
peg Pike, Chief Operating Officer & Principal and Rita Lee, CDFA®, Director of Research & Principal have been successful meeting women’s wealth management needs at every stage of life. As part of the wealth management team at Brouwer & Janachowski, founded over 30 years ago, they’ve built their relationships over time with hard work and open conversations. As moms, daughters, wives, sisters and friends themselves, they recognize the unique investment needs of their female clients.
Peg, Rita and the entire wealth management group are committed to helping their clients create and conserve their wealth while integrating career, family and personal goals. They take the time to understand people as individuals, with distinct goals and values.
Both Peg and Rita are committed to giving back and serving the community. Peg is Treasurer, Board Member, Investment Committee Member and Executive Committee Member of 10,000 Degrees in San Rafael, a college readiness program for students with low income backgrounds. Rita is Treasurer and Board Member for Family & Child Empowerment Services San Francisco (FACES SF), a non-profit organization benefiting parents and families in underserved communities of San Francisco. Based in Mill Valley, Brouwer & Janachowski manages $1.7 billion in assets and is a fee-only financial life planning and wealth management firm providing professionals, executives, business owners, and families with advice and direction for every aspect of their financial lives. and Rita Lee Shoreline Highway, Ste. B-101 Mill Valley, CA 415.435.8330
Working in the fashion industry for nearly 10 years, Karen Loftus has utilized her invaluable insight into fashion landscapes to curate looks that inspire confidence and beauty no matter the occasion. Karen worked closely with previous owner, Carolina Loiacono, for five years. After purchasing the business at the beginning of the year, she turned her longtime dream of owning a shop into a reality. Starting with a complete overhaul, Karen remodeled the shop to reflect her own imperfect, natural and effortless style. The space is complemented by found decor and custom artwork sourced from Marin County to Morocco.
CAROLINA is a modern bohemian, artful fashion boutique that reflects both nature’s light and color within the space and it’s offerings. Our simple mission is to inspire and guide those looking to enhance their personal style with warm, timeless pieces true to our “california cool” aesthetic. Our handpicked selection of predominantly female owned brands include both local and international designers. Handmade pieces from Ulla Johnson, Raquel Allegra, Warm and Natalie Martin are sure to put a smile on your face. Locally designed and Spanish crafted shoes from Freda Salvador add a bold and adrogynous edge, while woven leather handbags and shoes from Australia’s own, St. Agni, will keep you relaxed all summer long.
During these ever-evolving times, it is my mission as a new shop owner to create a space that exudes warmth, love and inspiration. Stay tuned for our grand reopening event later this year, in the meantime come by and say hello! LOFTUS
Dr. Cecile Binmoeller is proud to announce the opening of the Child Development Academy in Marin County. Our mission is to empower children, adolescents and families by providing the highest quality of mental health care. We offer therapy, neuropsychological assessments, and consultation to parents and schools.
Parenting is increasingly complex as a greater number of responsibilities are being placed on children and their caregivers. The Child Development Academy is committed to helping children and families: 1) effectively navigate challenges by developing coping and problemsolving tools, 2) identify and cultivate strengths, 3) connect with others through meaningful relationships and 4) feel more engaged in their daily lives by utilizing mindfulness-based tools.
The Child Development Academy specializes in serving children, adolescents and families struggling with issues related to anxiety, mood, learning difficulties, disruptive behaviors, autism, grief and stressful life changes. We adapt evidence-based interventions to meet each individual’s unique strengths and needs and strive to cultivate a collaborate space where individuals can take the first steps towards living a more enriching life.
Dr. Binmoeller is a licensed psychologist (PSY31602) dedicated to helping to helping children and families achieve their full potential by fostering resilience, courage and mindful engagement. She earned a combined Ph.D. in Counseling, Clinical, and School Psychology, a M.A. in Research Methodology, and a M.Ed. in School Psychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara. Photo credit: Roots & Shoots Photography Marin
Dr. Karen Horton
INNOVATIVE WOMANFOCUSED PLASTIC SURGEON
2100 Webster Street, #506 San Francisco, CA
Dr. Karen Horton has been providing residents of San Francisco and surrounding Bay Area communities with woman-focused aesthetic surgery since 2006. An Internationally Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon and the mother of twin girls herself, Dr. Horton firmly believes in empowering women to feel and look their best. To do this, she customizes each patient’s treatment plan to holistically address their unique physical, mental, and emotional needs and ensure superior results.
Dr. Horton has been honored with multiple awards as a result of her development of innovative techniques for procedures such as breast augmentation, tummy tucks, labiaplasty, and mommy makeovers. In her office, Emily Sespaniak, NP is the expert in non-surgical treatments including Botox, dermal fillers, and CoolSculpting to “help her patients feel renewed and revitalized throughout all stages of their lives.”
Dr. Horton’s greatest source of professional pride, however, is the use of her considerable skill and expertise to provide women with the most sophisticated techniques in microsurgical breast reconstruction, nipple-sparing mastectomy, and breast implant reconstruction.
Holly Hollenbeck
HSH INTERIORS PRINCIPAL DESIGNERAs a visual omnivore who eagerly poured through her mother’s Architectural Digest magazines as a child, Holly Hollenbeck’s raw talent and passion for design was apparent at a young age. Driven by the mantra that “life is not a dress rehearsal,” Holly believes everyone deserves a home that is a means to living life to the fullest.
Prior to establishing HSH Interiors in 2002, Holly primed her entrepreneurial spirit and developed a sharp business acumen working in investment banking and at an internet start-up. Ultimately, she decided to pursue what she had always gravitated towards and enrolled at UC Berkeley’s Interior Design Program, got a job at a SF-based design firm and soon took the leap towards starting her own company.
HSH Interiors specializes in large-scale residential projects including ground-up construction and interior architecture. Holly’s approach to design is the same for all: to channel her vision around a sense of place and people. The common thread in her portfolio is a timeless sensibility brought to life through a blend of both modern and vintage touches.
While Holly’s projects are predominantly in the Bay Area, her portfolio also includes clients in Jackson Hole, Squaw Valley, Manhattan Beach and Beverly Hills. Holly was a longtime Marin resident and currently lives on San Francisco’s Alamo Square with her husband and three children.
7 Clement Street • San Francisco, CA 415.702.6460 • hsh-interiors.com
Marin County has always been a home for Monica. She grew up in Mill Valley, CA., where she attended Old Mill, Mill Valley Middle School, and Tamalpais High School. After graduating from Tam High, Monica attended UCLA where she obtained her BA in World Arts and Cultures. Directly after receiving her degree she moved to New York City to work for companies such as: Calvin Klein and Jcrew. She then moved to Los Angeles and worked at Sketchers, before moving back to Marin to work at a start-up footwear company located in San Rafael called Vionic. While at Vionic she was the Senior Director of Product Development and Costing departments.
Photo credit: @Katierainphotography, katierainphotography.com Gal
Monica specializes in start-up businesses within corporations and brings a structured yet grounding presence to the workplace. Her distinctive abilities have helped Nice Guys Delivery stand out as a business of merit and professionalism in the newly formed legal cannabis industry.
Nice Guys Delivery is a licensed cannabis delivery service which operates out of San Rafael, CA.
Monica and her partner, Adam Fong, co-owner and CEO of Nice Guys, own a house in West Marin and are raising two young boys and two dogs. It’s a dream come true for her to raise a family and own a business serving the community in the same county where she grew up.
North Coast Tile have been helping people navigate thru heartache due to the fires over the past 3 years. Now we face another challenging time with Covid19. NCT continues to be a company that cares, helps, contributes and is dedicated to keeping you in your home and working for you in a way that is mindful as well as detail orientated.
Martha leads the North Coast Tile and Showroom team in working with designers, contractors, architects and homeowners with a confident, thoughtful and professional attitude.
Please call with any questions to how to make appointments with us during this this time. and Santa Rosa Avenue Santa Rosa, CA 707.586.2064 nctile.com
NCT is a one stop shop which offers stone slabs, a beautiful tile selection, design services and installation of both stone and tile. One client says, “Being in Martha’s showroom is like being in her living room. The care that was taken with the selection, design and installation of our slabs and tile made us feel like family”.
Michele Affronte
SELLING A LIFESTYLEMichele Affronte has been selling the Sausalito lifestyle since 1991. Most of her clients have used her over and over again for Real Estate purchases and sales. They are so pleased with her services that they refer family and friends. Because of this, Michele is one of the top agents in Marin County.
Working for Engel and Voelkers Global in Sausalito, she has resources to market her properties globally with the click of a key on her laptop. Sausalito, Michele’s place of residence and business attracts many international buyers. Since Engel and Voelkers has more than 800 offices worldwide, buyers from abroad immediately contact her when they want to buy in Sausalito or on the waterfront.
Selling Real Estate since 1987, Michele brings experience, patience and knowledge to the table.
She will stage your home for sale and market it more than any other agent in the county. She has held the title of #1 Agent in her office since 2016. If you want to meet her…just google her…She is always available. Search Reach 150 for her latest reviews.
Engel & Volkers International 415.798.0236 • maffronte99@gmail.com
MicheleAffrontereach150.com • Lic #000959293
Christina Lisac, L. Ac., Dipl. OM
APRICOT FOREST CHINESE MEDICINE
As a doctor of Chinese Medicine, I’ve spent the last 15 years observing the transformative effects of this approach on my patients. At a time when we are more distracted, fatigued and stressed than ever, Chinese Medicine helps us realize our full potential. I have seen unparalleled results in my patients and specialize in a full range of acupuncture treatments.
244 Miller Avenue • Mill Valley, CA 510.927.8480 • apricotforest.com
Megan Pomponio
H901 Sir Francis Drake Blvd • Kentfield CA 425.827.9229 • megansellsmarin.com REAL ESTATE
aving a trusted advisor in this unprecedented time is imperative. Making a decision to invest in real estate requires knowledge and expertise in the local market. As a native of Marin County, Megan not only has a great pulse on the market, but an extensive background in marketing and advertising. These qualities, along with her ability to truly listen and understand her clients’ needs, has consistently placed Megan in the top 3% of Realtors in Marin and was recently ranked in the Top 1% nationwide by REAL Trends. She is not only highly qualified as a top agent, she’s also been described by clients as “downto-earth”, “dedicated and professional” and “devoted to her clients’ needs”, which is crucial when representing a client. Megan is the mother of two daughters and her husband is a mortgage professional. She gives back to her community by donating part of her commission to Home for a Home and has been involved with Sparkle Foundation, Bloom and other local charities.
Cannell Insurance Group
THE MOST BELOVED INSURANCE AGENT IN TOWN
Stephanie Cannell knows the difference between having insurance and being insured. Specializing in Southern Marin for the last 16 years, she overcomes insurance objections that are unique to our area. Handling all types of insurance from auto, home, life and umbrella to construction and small business. Stephanie brings her experience to work for you.
232 E Blithedale Avenue, Suite 206 • Mill Valley, CA 415.388.7979 • 415.302.2989 cell • 415.388.7980 fax
City Carpets
COMMITTED TO GIVING BACKFew women in the Bay Area hold the credentials that Leigh Bakhtiari has earned in her 27-year career in the flooring business. Her leadership has helped to shape a variety of flooring advisory councils with recommendations for best flooring practices and product development. In addition to her professional world of flooring, she is also a community leader and Board member with the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce.
In 2019 the San Rafael Chamber recognized the many years of community support that Leigh and City Carpets provided to numerous charitable causes, including local schools and youth programs such as Youth in Arts, Italian Street Painting Marin, and the Milo Foundation. For all they do, The Chamber recognized City Carpets as San Rafael’s Small Business of the Year.
According to Leigh, there is much more to be done, she remains committed to programs that help reduce homelessness in Marin and Sonoma County; including Homeward Bound of Marin, Grateful Gatherings, The Living Room, and Adopt a Family of Marin.
555 E. Francisco Blvd • San Rafael, CA 415.454.4200 • city-carpets.com • CSL #746886
CHAMBERS + CHAMBERS
ARCHITECTS
Focused on custom residential architecture and interior design services, Chambers + Chambers is a boutique architectural practice in Mill Valley, California. Understated elegance, quiet luxury, richness in color and texture, classical detailing and axial relationships are signature elements of Barbara’s award winning designs. Barbara finds design inspiration through her passion for and love of classical architecture, antiques, sculpture, art and travel.
chambersandchambers.com
Innovative Match
WELCOME TO YOUR NEXT RELATIONSHIP
Cassie Zampa-Keim is a renowned dating and relationship strategist, author, speaker and coach. She is the founder and CEO of Innovative Match, a national relationship-services firm.
One of the industry’s leading experts on dating, Cassie has worked with thousands of singles over the past three decades. She’s been named one of the World’s Top Matchmakers (UK Dating), written for and been featured in leading media publications and is the author of the acclaimed “Finding Love After 50.” One of the early pioneers of using online dating with clients, Cassie draws the latest technologies to service clients.
Cassie launched Innovative Match to deliver a 21st century approach for helping clients to realize their relationship goals. Cassie offers a holistic, data-driven roadmap for transforming clients’ dating lives, drawing upon technology expertise, psychological training and work as a dating and life coach.
Ross, CA 415.259.8714 • innovative-match.com
DANNA LEWIS
AUTHOR OF “THE INDISPUTABLE GIFT OF MEN”
Life Coach Danna Lewis’s non-fiction book is a collection of intimate stories that invite you to unlock caustic, emasculating, judgmental conversations around dating and relationships. Women who read this book will release resentment, increase gratitude, and multiply enjoyment of and with men. A portion of the proceeds from book sales goes to the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Available on Amazon.
danna@dannalewis.com • www.dannalewis.com
Allison Fortini Crawford
LUXURY REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALAllison has been a top producing luxury real estate agent in both Marin and San Francisco for the past two decades. She and her husband have raised their two children in Kentfield, where Allison is actively involved throughout the community. She provides a personal perspective to living in Marin, and her intimate knowledge of the Marin luxury market is a tremendous asset to both buyers and sellers.
Allison has proven that success can be achieved without compromising her strong values. Her clients rely on her honesty and keen attention to detail, as well as her powerful negotiating skills.
On the rare occasion when she is not working with clients, Allison enjoys flying small airplanes and sailing on San Francisco Bay with her family.
Allison’s commitment to giving back to her community has inspired her to dedicate a portion of her earnings to Marin charities that support children and families in need. She also serves on numerous committees and boards related to education and youth sports in Marin.
Sotheby’s International Realty 415.297.9596 • Fortini-Crawford.com Bridging San Francisco and Marin to Bring You Home™
Sutton Suzuki Architects
THOUGHTFUL DESIGN
Elizabeth Suzuki is a partner at Sutton Suzuki Architects, a design-forward firm with projects throughout Northern California as well as Malibu, Tahoe, Hawaii, and Kauai.
She finds that working collaboratively with her clients is the best way to discover uniquely tailored solutions. Elizabeth understands that design styles may vary but attention to detail is enduring.
suttonsuzuki.comKathryn Harris, CPA
PEROTTI & CARRADE, CPAS
Born and raised in Marin, Kathryn Harris is a dedicated professional. She is prompt, professional, well-versed in auditing, review, accounting and tax return planning and preparation for individuals, for-profit and not-forprofit businesses. Together with the other principals and experienced associates at Perotti and Carrade, Kat provides the type of service that you want in a CPA firm.
For the last four years, the firm has been voted as the # 1 best accounting firm by the Marin IJ’s Reader’s Choice Awards. This is due to its unique personal approach offered to all clients. The professionals at Perotti & Carrade spend time with each client, to not only calculate and review last year’s information but to explore options and alternatives for the future. They pride themselves on quality and attention to detail.
Though numbers are Kat’s “thing”, there is a whole other side. Coming from a family of eight siblings, she can be counted on to chip in on babysitting, feeding, or overnight stays. With her husband and two young daughters, you can see her around enjoying all the beauty Marin has to offer.
1 McInnis Parkway, Suite 200 • San Rafael, CA 415.461.8500 • pc-cpas.com
Danielle Botros
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL…INSPIRING CONFIDENCE
What’s true in life is what’s true in business - one’s trust must be earned. Danielle’s reputation for honesty, her exceptional ability for communicating and skillful negotiating is what has propelled her in business and in life. Her decades of travel and living abroad as a former wine professional enrich her with a fresh, savvy, worldly approach to real estate.
Vanguard Properties, Marin
1118 Magnolia Avenue • Larkspur, CA 415.488.7080 • danielle-botros.vanguardproperties.com
Makers Market
SUZY EKMAN, FOUNDER & CEOMakers Market was founded on the idea of supporting American craftsmanship. Its location in the historic Mill Valley Lumberyard, under the redwoods and straddling the creek, has a warm, general store vibe with its refined rustic aesthetic – leading to a magical experience. Shoppers can discover locally handcrafted jewelry, men’s and women’s accessories, clothing and home goods (wood, glass and ceramics) from over 100 creators.
Goods are vetted to be well-designed, sustainable, and made with a high % of US content (such as locally grown plant materials) to maximize the benefit to our local economies. Suzy has been on USA Today’s Expert Panel to select the Top 10 Makers in America and is a National Curator for the American Craft Council – so many toprated artists are found in her stores.
All 4 locations (Broadway Plaza, Santana Row, and First Street Napa) have regular open-air markets. Upcoming Lumberyard dates are: May 9th, July 11th, and September 12th. You can support your local artistneighbors and keep the creative heart of our community alive, all while sipping your wine.
Mill Valley Lumberyard • Mill Valley, CA 415.326.5111 • makersmarket.us
Alexandra Cowley
CLIENT FOCUSED. RESULTS DRIVEN.
An East Coast transplant, Alex and her family have been lucky to call Marin home for the past 25 years. This helps her understand firsthand how important the emotional connection with a home, as well as a neighborhood and community, is for clients. She provides opportunities for clients to buy and sell their largest asset in seamless ways to meet each of their unique and comprehensive needs.
Vanguard Properties • Mill Valley, CA 415.302.0961 • Buythebaywithalex.com
Take Time to Connect .
Being mindful, heart-full, and balanced can help soothe us during these unimaginable times. Support and engage one another with 1440 Multiversity Online Learning, our new digital community platform. Participate in webinars with like-minded individuals and esteemed faculty, view free content ranging from meditation to embodied movement to cooking demos, and much more – all from the comfort of your home.
As we temporarily pause on-campus programs out of concern for health and wellness, we invite you to breathe deep, convey gratitude, and feel inspired in the 1440 minutes we all have each day, as always. Only now with more screen time and less tree time.
We will weather this storm and celebrate together in the redwoods when the skies clear. Visit 1440.tv to learn more.
Eat & Drink
AN INSIDER’S GUIDE TO RESTAURANTS AND GOOD FOOD IN THE BAY AREA
Spring cocktail season is kicking off now. Our resident barfly and cocktail expert, Jeff Burkhart, gives his stay-at-home tips.
On the Rise
Kneading out the breadmaking craze with Jim Challenger, maker of the popular Challenger Bread Pan.
BY MACAIRE DOUGLASIf the empty flour shelves are any indication, a lot of us are baking during shelter in place. Baking bread — and playing scientist with your sourdough starter — may seem intimidating, but it’s actually not that complicated, as long as you have the ingredients and time. Jim Challenger, who launched Challenger Breadware to help at home and professional bakers yield the best bread, knows his sourdough (even Martha Stewart is a fan of his Challenger Bread Pan). We asked him for his best tips, and why he thinks everyone is drawn to the art of bread making during this time.
You’re a daily baker. What are your tips for a first timer?
Just do it. Jump in. Make your first loaf. It’s not complicated, but bakers (like me) can make it complicated because we have the curse of knowledge. We know too much. So, when someone asks a simple question, we often give them a complex answer and confuse them. I recently developed a recipe we call, KIS Bread (Keep It Simple).
What do you think is so calming about baking bread?
Bread baking offers many things, especially during these troubled times. First, it is something healthy
and delicious that you can make at home for your family with just three or four ingredients: flour, water, salt and sometimes baker’s yeast — sourdough bakers make their own wild yeast out of flour and water. Second, it is a very relaxing and meditative hobby. It doesn’t take a lot of work; it just takes time. And the more present and aware you are throughout the process and the more love you give your dough, the better your bread will turn out.
You and your wife, Lisa, are help ing the community by baking bread for others at your Blue Moon Farms outside of Chicago, Illinois. How did this come about? There’s been an interesting side effect from the virus for Lisa and me. We’ve always made bigger batches of bread two to three days per week, which we gave to friends and neighbors in our
community. One day, Lisa texted me a picture showing the empty bread shelves at the grocery store. When she came home, we decided that we were going to make big batches of bread everyday for our community. It has grown and grown. It’s the most gratifying thing I’ve ever done in my life, and I’m becoming a better baker.
There are many sourdough starter recipes out there it seems — some call for pineapple juice, for example. What is your favorite method?
The easiest way is to just make it with flour and water. Sourdough can be intimidating. It takes a little more thought, time and care. Making bread with baker’s yeast or wild yeast is somewhat the same, but sourdough has one additional step: your starter.
This is what sourdough bakers call their wild yeast. Like a baby, it just has to be fed more food on a regular schedule. The food is just more flour and water, and a single feeding takes less than five minutes.
There is a shortage of supplies out there. Any tips on where to find ingredients right now?
There are so many smaller farmers and millers all over the U.S. (and the world) who have flour and they will ship them nationally. Here are some in California:
Beck’s Bakery, Arcata shopbecksbakery.com Capay Mills , Esparto capaymills.com Central Milling , Petaluma centralmilling.com
Community Grains , Oakland communitygrains.com
Frog Hollow Farm , Brentwood froghollow.com
Grass Valley Grains , Wheatland grassvalleygrains.com Grist & Toll , Los Angeles gristandtoll.com
More of the interview and a recipe by Bread on Earth's Lexie Smith can be found at marinmagazine.com/sourdoughbreadDrinking in Place
BY JEFF BURKHARTYou’re stuck at home, the beer and wine have run out and the next shopping trip is days away. Before panic sets in you turn your eyes toward your liquor cabinet. Is a delicious cocktail hiding in there somewhere? Bartender, Marin IJ “Barfly” columnist and author of Twenty Years Behind Bars, Jeff Burkhart, thinks so. Here he gives a few recipes for cocktails that are just a shake away.
THE QUARANTINI
2 ounces gin (or vodka, or light rum)
1 splash orange bitters (less than a 1/8 teaspoon)
1 citrus zest
Combine gin and bitters in a shaker glass with ice. Shake until ice cold, then strain into a chilled serving glass. Squeeze zest and run around rim of glass, then drop it in. This one might not have the most original of names, but certainly one of the best. A classic martini usually contains dry vermouth, but I find most dry vermouth is too oxidized (a quality in wine that would give it a spoiled taste). For bitter and bright with no oxidation, orange bitters fits the bill nicely — and a little goes a long way. Vermouth is a still a wineflavored spirit with herbs and it will spoil in a few days if left unrefrigerated (it might last a week or two refrigerated). Most people treat it as a liquor, which it is not, much to their surprise.
Consider that when you get out that 2-year-old bottle of vermouth from your back cabinet for your shelter-inplace cocktail. Bitters is high proof and should last just about forever. This recipe is adapted from one I had at The Savoy in London. There it came in a Baccarat crystal glass and was $90. I’m guessing it tastes just as good out of a coffee cup.
ZOMBIE APOCALYPSE
2 ounces dark rum (or light rum, or flavored rum, or a combination)
1 ounce orange juice
1 ounce pineapple juice
1/2 teaspoon berry jam (any flavor jam can work, but berry is the best) Citrus wheel of any kind
Combine rum and jam in the bottom of a mixing glass. Stir to combine. Add ice and fruit juices and stir or shake. Pour into serving glass and garnish with citrus. Two rums and two juices, with a sweetener is how I was taught to make tropical drinks: mai tai’s, zombies, scorpions, it doesn’t matter, they are all basically the same with one or two minor differences. Sometimes it is different juice — guava, mango, passionfruit, etc. — and sometimes it is different sweetener — grenadine (pomegranate), orgeat (sweet almond), falernum (ginger). Since most people don’t have those last three sitting around, I suggest using some berry jam instead. The zombies will thank you. This drink first appeared in late 1934, invented by Donn Beach at his Hollywood Don the Beachcomber restaurant. It was popularized on the East Coast soon afterward at the 1939 New York World's Fair.
OMEGA MAN OLD FASHIONED
2 ounces of any of these: bourbon, rye, blended, Irish, Scotch, Canadian or Japanese whiskey (or brandy, aged rum, anejo tequila, Armagnac, anything aged)
2 dashes bitters (any bitters will work, so will Fernet, Averna or any other kind of amaro)
1 teaspoon simple syrup (50/50 dissolved mixture of sugar and water)
1 citrus zest
Combine first three ingredients in a mixing glass with ice and stir. Pour into serving glass and garnish with zest. Old fashioneds are remarkably easy to make, despite what you might read online, at least the original old fashioned is. First called a “bittered sling,” it was just three ingredients: sugar, bitters and liquor. Easy.
HERBAL HERMITAGE MOJITO
2 ounces white rum or vodka (flavored ones work well, too)
1 ounce lemon or lime juice
1 ounce simple syrup
1 ounce fresh herb (mint, cilantro, basil, thyme, rosemary)
1 lemon or lime wheel
1 reserved sprig of the herb used
Gently tear herbs into shreds and place in the bottom of a mixing glass. Add ice and the three liquid ingredients. Shake gently to combine (one to two hard shakes, or more if using gentle shakes). Strain into a cocktail glass and float the wheel, placing a sprig of fresh herb on top. Alternately, pour entire mixture into 12-ounce glass and top with soda. The drink was born in Cuba and was thought to be a remedy for illness.
Delicious cocktails you can make with ingredients you already have at home.
AN INSIDER’S GUIDE TO RESTAURANTS AND GOOD FOOD IN THE BAY AREA
CORTE MADERA
Blue Barn Gourmet American The first Marin outpost of the S.F.-based eatery has proven very popular. The menu includes custom izable salads, toasted sandwiches, soups and more, prepared with locally harvested produce and proteins. Try the Jersey cow milk gelato from Double 8 Dairy of West Marin. 335 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.927.1104, bluebarngourmet.com b $$ S Í LD º
Flores Mexican With an emphasis on regional Mexican dishes and flavors sourced from family recipes, the menu is based on California seasonality and revolves around masa. The daily-made tortillas are featured in dishes such as duck confit enchiladas, Dungeness crab tostadas, and chilibraised beef short ribs. There’s a full bar to boot. 301 Corte Madera Town Center, Corte Madera, 415.500.5145, floressf.com s $$$ S C LD BR º
Il Fornaio Italian Aside from pizzas and pastas, this upscale-Italian fran chise serves a variety of salads and carb-free entrées. 223 Corte
Madera Town Center, 415.927.4400, ilfornaio.com s $$ S Í C LD BR
Moseley’s Sports & Spirits American Olympic gold medalist Jonny Moseley opened this sports bar with 11 flat-screen TVs, a beer garden with fire pit, and bar games galore. Food is available until mid night and includes pizza from business partner Karen Goldberg, fresh sandos and salads, and pregame snacks like wings and sweet potato fries. 55 Tamal Vista Blvd, 415.704.7437, moseleysmarin.com
s $$ S Í LD
World Wrapps
California Owners Keith Cox and Matt Blair have revamped this “fast food” joint to feature healthy and flavorful items like a Hawaiian poke wrap and a tahini tofu summer roll that’s vegan-friendly. Exotic housemade beverages include boba tea, mango lassi and Vietnamese iced coffee. 208 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.927.3663, worldwrapps.com $ S Í LD
LARKSPUR Belcampo Meat Co. American The goods at this meatery are
delivered from the certified-organic Belcampo Farms near Mount Shasta, dedicated to practicing a holistic approach to pasture management. Try the lamb burger banh mi or the daily meat board.
Marin Country Mart, 2405 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.448.5810, belcampomeatco.com
b $$ Í LD BR
Farm House Local California This downtown Larkspur gem is sure to please with simple, healthy food in a warm, cozy atmosphere, both indoors and on the covered patio. The seasonal menu, inspired by American classics, includes biscuits and gravy; a “BLAT” (with avocado) sandwich; and a daily fluffy omelet stuffed with local meats, vegetables and artisanal cheeses. 25 Ward St, 415.891.8577, farmhouselocal.com
b $$ S Í BL
Farmshop American Located in the Marin Country Mart since 2013, Farmshop Marin has quickly become a top spot here in the county. Indoor and out door seating available.
Marin Country Mart, 2233 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.755.6700, farmshopca.com
s $$$ S Í C LD BR
Gia Ristorante Italian Italian Fabrizio Laudati, former owner of San Francisco’s Bella Trattoria and Panta Rei, has brought his Italian
style to Marin. With cochef Stefano Guasco, he offers a menu of simple, authentic dishes with a modern twist from cen tral Italy’s Lazio region. 286 Magnolia Ave, 415.891.3979, giarestaurant.net
b $$ Í LD
Left Bank Restaurant French This authenti cally classic brasserie has been serving the Larkspur community for more than two decades. Whether on the patio, at the European-style bar or in the casually elegant main dining room, it’s a fun and French experience. 507 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.3331, leftbank.com
s $$$ S Í C LD BR
Perry’s American Perry's on Magnolia has the quintesssentially American fare, bustling bar and warm personal ity the San Fancisco original has always been famous for. Lunch and dinner daily, brunch on weekends and holidays; valet parking in the evenings. 234 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.1877, perryssf.com
s $$$ Í LD BR º
Picco California Popular since its inception, Picco has a seasonally driven menu featuring items such as risotto (made every half hour) that keep attracting return visits. 320 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.0300, restaurantpicco.com
s $$$ S Í C D
Come see our multi-million dollar property renovations and state-of-the-art event spaces.
When you meet here, your vision is our complete focus.
Rustic Bakery California
The homegrown bakery is known and loved the world over: Pope Francis famously requested Rustic Bakery flatbread and crostini when he visited the U.S. in 2015. Organic bread, crois sants and pastries baked fresh each morning and salads, sandwiches, and soups for lunch make Rustic a local staple. 1139 Magnolia Ave, 415.925.1556; Marin Country Mart, 2017 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.461.9900, rusticbakery.com
b $$ S Í BLD BR
Wise Sons American
The popular Jewish deli Wise Sons has opened its fourth outpost at the Marin Country Mart. The grab-and-go Larkspur bagel shop includes classic favorites like hot pastrami, matzo ball soup and lots of homemade schmear. Marin Country Mart, 2227 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.878.3354, wisesonsdeli.com $$ BL BR
MILL VALLEY
Bootjack Wood Fired California Re-branded to more accurately reflect the expanded, ingredient-driven menu from chef Kyle Swain, the former Pizza Molina still serves its renowned pizzas fired in the old Alan Scott oven. A fresh menu of salads such as a red beet salad and a kid-friendly white ched dar mac ’n’ cheese are now available alongside wood-fired meats like
a half-chicken or pork ribs.17 Madrona St, 415.383.4200, pizzamolina.com b $$ S B
Bungalow 44 American
One of Mill Valley’s neighborhood hot spots, featuring contemporary California comfort food, signature cocktails, fine wine, and one-dollar oysters from 5 to 6 p.m. every day. 44 E Blithedale Ave, 415.381.2500, bungalow44.com s $$$ S Í C D
Floodwater California
Sip “The Obligatory Vodka Drink” at the room-length bar while you nosh on scallop crudo or dive into a house-made veggie burger in the TV-free front room. Up the coziness factor in the back room as you tuck into a margherita pizza cooked in the wood-fired oven at this spacious Tam Valley tavern. 152 Shoreline Hwy, 415.843.4545, floodwatermv.com s $$ S Í C D BR
Flour Craft Bakery
American The brainchild of pastry chef Heather Hardcastle, this second location, in the bright and airy renovated Lumber Yard, offers not only gluten-free baked goods but sandwiches, salads and takeout. The first location is in San Anselmo. 129 Miller Ave, 415.384.8244, flourcraft bakery.com b $$ S Í BL
Gravity Tavern American Updated with ingredients to
reflect modern tastes, American classics like grilled chicken Waldorf salad with pickled grapes, lobster roll with toasted challah and veggie slaw, and a land and sea pasta with house made egg pasta, pork belly and crab may have also been familiar fare for passengers of the gravity car for which this saloon was named. 38 Miller Ave, 415.888.2108, gravitytavern.com
s $$$ Í LD
Hook Fish Co. Seafood
The indoor, woodceilinged dining room feels like a boat’s galley and the spot’s outdoor beer garden adjacent to Mill Valley’s Proof Lab has 13 taps, but the draw at this counter-service joint is the seafood. The transparent supply chain means you can enjoy the poke, fish and chips or fish tacos secure in the knowledge of exactly where and on what boat your meal came from. 254 Shoreline Highway, hookfishco.com
b $$ S Í D
India Palace Indian
Known as “that great restaurant in the Travelodge,” India Palace is a favorite with the takeout crowd; eating on site is also a treat. 707 Redwood Highway, 415.388.3350, india palacemillvalley.com
b $$ S LD
Joe’s Taco Lounge
Mexican Joe’s serves up fish tacos, burritos and enchiladas as well as more unusual items like Mexican pizza, tofu
tostada and crab tosta das. A colorful interior and quick service make this a fun, easy stop. If there are too many unsupervised kids for a peaceful meal, takeout is easy too. If you stay, grab a selection of hot sauce bottles from the wall and find your perfect match. 382 Miller Ave, 415.383. 8164, joestacolounge.com
b $$ S Í BLD
Piatti Ristorante and Bar Italian The staff prides itself on capturing the warm and welcoming atmosphere of a traditional Italian trattoria. Get a table by the window or on the outdoor deck for a truly exceptional view right on the water. Peruse the impressive selection of Italian wines to accompany your rustic seasonal meal. 625 Redwood Highway, 415.380.2525, piatti.com
s $$ S Í C LD BR
Playa Mexican Drawing inspiration from travels and the fresh, flavorful cuisine served on the playa, Peter Schumacher and Bill and Vanessa Higgins have developed a menu that blends locally sourced, organic and sustain able ingredients with a bar highlighting a selection of exceptional tequilas and mezcals. 41 Throckmorton Ave, 415.384.8871, playamv.com
s $$ Í D
Sweetwater Music Hall Cafe American
Located at the entrance of Sweetwater Music Hall, the cafe is dedi cated to the FLOSS philosophy: Fresh, Local, Organic, Seasonal and Sustainable. Offering breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch, the menu includes brown-butter scrambled eggs on avocado toast, crispy potato-ricotta gnocchi and vegan Thai spring rolls with sweet-and-sour sauce.
19 Corte Madera Ave, 415.388.3850, sweet watermusichall.com
s $$ S Í BLD BR º
SAN RAFAEL
Amici’s East Coast Pizzeria California A wide array of thin-crust pizzas, freshly made pastas and salads are the ticket here, along with flame-roasted lemon chicken wings, for dine-in, takeout and delivery. Gluten-free pizza crust is available. 1242 Fourth St, 415.455.9777, amicis.com b $$ S Í LD º
Range Cafe American
The cuisine is local, seasonal, made with naturally raised ingre dients and served in a casual, comfortable and refined setting, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the grand Peacock Gap lawns. An inviting cafe at lunch with ice-cold lemonade and refreshing chardon nays makes a great dinner spot once the sun sets. 333 Biscayne Drive, 415.454.6450, rangecafe.net
SAN ANSELMO
Comforts Cafe American A large takeout section offers fresh bakery items, seasonal salads, soups, sandwiches and even entrees for dinner at home. Besides the famous Chinese chicken salad, other winners are the stuffed pecan-crusted French toast, flavorful scrambles, Chicken Okasan (nicknamed “Crack Chicken” by fans) and wonton soup. 335 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.9840, comfortscafe.com
b $$ S Í BL BR
Cucina Sa Italian Cucina SA renovated its space to include a full bar that seats 30 with an upstairs mezzanine area that will eventually become a lounge. Along with two dining rooms, a private dining option and outdoor tables on the adjacent bridge, the restaurant is a solid bet for casual after-work drinks or hosting large parties. The menu has woodfired pizzas, homemade pastas, modern takes on Italian classics and lots of vegetarian, glutenfree options and now a full bar. 510 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.2942, cucina-sa.com
s $$ S Í LD º
Insalata’s Mediterranean Chef Heidi Krahling’s restau rant features delicious Mediterranean fare, as well as food-to-go at a counter inside. 120 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.457.7700, insalatas.com s $$$ S C LD BR
Valenti & Co. Italian This bright and cozy space is the ideal environment for authentic Italian dishes made with local ingredients. A seat at the chef’s table gives a prime view. 337 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.7800, valentico.com
b $$$ D
Il Davide Italian The large selection of innovative and classic Tuscan dishes and house-made pasta has kept locals coming back for years. Ingredients are organic and locally sourced where possible, and there’s a vast selection of both Italian and California wines by the glass. A private party dining room accommo dates up to 45. 901 A St, 415.454.8080, ildavide.net s $$$ S Í C LD
McInnis Park Golf Club Restaurant American Grab a meal prepared by chef Chris Harman before or after hitting the driving range (or even without picking up a club). Outdoor seating is popular, as is the full bar, with a selection of premium Scotches, small-batch bourbons and more than 50 wines from California vineyards. McInnis Park, 415.491.5959, mcinnis parkgolfcenter.com s $$$ Í C LD
s $$ S Í C BLD º
Sol Food Puerto Rican A Marin legend, Sol Food whips up traditional Puerto Rican dishes just like the ones owners Sol Hernandez grew up eating. Favorites include the bistec sandwich, mofongo and other fried plantain dishes, but anything tastes good with a dash of the signature hot sauce, also for sale by the bottle (as is the lemon-garlic salad dressing). 901 Lincoln Ave, 415.451.4765, solfoodrestaurant.com
$$ S BLD
Vin Antico American
Vin Antico, “where passion meets the plate,” serves seasonal market-inspired cuisine like stone-oven-baked flatbreads, handmade pastas and organic salads, all innovatively prepared. The kitchen is open to the dining room and there’s a full bar with artisan cocktails. 881 Fourth St, 415.721.0600, vinantico.com
s $$ S C LD º
Caption teekay PoggioSAUSALITO
Angelino Restaurant Italian Authentic Italian eatery with handmade pastas and seasonal antipasti, showcas ing cuisine of the Campania region for more than 20 years. 621 Bridgeway, 415.331.5225, angelinorestaurant.com
s $$$ S BLD
Fish Seafood Order the fish tacos, ceviche and a bottle of wine and take in the bay views on the open-air deck. Casual; bring a hat on sunny days. 350 Harbor Drive, 415.331.3474, 331fish.com
b $$$ S Í LD
Murray Circle American Cavallo Point’s acclaimed restaurant features local seasonal fare by executive chef Justin Everett, with pairings from an extensive wine list and tempting desserts. Stop by Farley Bar for cocktails with a view. 601 Murray Circle, 415.339.4750, cavallopoint.com
s $$$ S Í C BLD BR
Poggio Italian Executive chef Benjamin Balesteri creates Northern Italian fare using fresh and local ingredients. Private dining rooms above the restaurant can accom modate larger parties (10 to 150 guests). 777
Bridgeway, 415.332.7771, poggiotratoria.com
s $$$ S Í C BLD
Saylor’s Restaurant and Bar Mexican Chef/ owner Sean Saylor uses fresh local ingredients to create a distinctively Cabo combination of California and Mexican cuisine. Choose from more than 200 varieties of tequilas that are even better when enjoyed in the private Cabo Wabo room, named for (and approved by) Mill Valley's own tequila master, Sammy Hagar. 2009 Bridgeway, 415.332.1512, saylors restaurantandbar.com
s $$ S Í C LD º
Sushi Ran Japanese Sample innovative small plates before enjoying some of the best sushi the Bay Area has to offer; the prices don’t
deter the herd of enthusiasts who line up nightly to partake. Just stopping by? The wine, cocktail and sake lists keep even the pickiest barfly
satisfied. Reservations are required in the main room. 107 Caledonia St, 415.332.3620, sushiran.com s $$ Í LD
KEY TO SYMBOLS
Full bar
Wine and beer
Inexpensive (entrees $10 or less)
Moderate (up to $20)
Expensive ($20 and over)
s b $ $$ $$$ S Í C BLDBR BR º
Kid-friendly
Outdoor seating Private party room Breakfast, lunch, dinner Brunch Happy hour
These listings are intended to be a quick guide to some of the most popular restaurants in the county. For more restaurant listings, visit us online at marinmagazine.com/dine
PROMOTION
Offices in San Rafael & La Costa, San Diego www.charle.com chdewitt@aol.com (760)753-9060
Let Comforts nourish you during these uncertain times! We are open for take-out, curbside pickup and delivery! Select from a wide range of Grab & Go Salads, Family Meals, homemade soups and more!
COMFORTS 335 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, CA 415.454.9840 comfortscafe.com
Cucina now crafting Cocktails to Go in a sophisticated and adorable package! Dinner available for Pick Up and Delivery. Call and order between 4:00pm - 8:00pm. Pick Up or Delivery between 4:30 and 8:00.
CUCINA SA 510 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, CA 415.454.2942 cucina-sa.com
L et's Be Direct
Sowing spring seeds now for a summer bounty.
BY KIER HOLMESThink sowing annual seeds in the ground is time wasted and not worth getting your gardening gloves dirty for? Well, that might not be the case. Here are some reasons you should consider direct-sowing seeds. If nothing else, it provides good motivation to get you and your gardening gloves into the garden.
THE GROUND RULES
Why Seeds are inexpensive, you have more choice in varieties when you direct-sow, and some
plants like zinnias with delicate roots fare better from seed than from nursery transplants.
How To First read the seed packet directions to determine seed depth and spacing. Then prepare the area by loos ening the soil, removing weeds and working in organic compost. Finally, smooth the area.
Row by Row One way to plant is to make furrows for the seeds. Either tap the seeds out as you move along the rows or individually place larger seeds.
Broad Idea To create a meadow look, evenly broadcast seeds, like a California native wildflower mix, over a bed or an area, then rake lightly to barely cover the seeds with soil.
Seed Depth Rule of (a green) thumb is to plant a seed twice as deep as the width of th e seed.
H20 No matter what the sowing method, remember that all seeds need a fine spray of water and need to be kept moist (not soggy) until they sprout.
Crowd Pleaser
When seedlings have two sets of leaves, thin those too closely spaced to avoid crowding.
Fresh Idea M sure your seeds are fresh and dated for the current year.
Where to Buy Shop online or at your local nursery.
Tip The Mill Valley Library has an ingenious seed-lending library called SeedSmart, where you can check out seeds, grow them and return any new seeds.
WHAT TO SOW AND GROW NOW
I’ll admit that I love the smell of freshly cut lawns. But it’s the chemical fertil izers, mower noise, weed battles, and wasteful water consumption that I willingly trade in for more ecologically sustainable pastures. Here are garden design ideas to help you end the sub urban turf romance and create a new environmentally friendly field of green.
LAY OF THE LAWN
Questions The first thing is to ask yourself is: How do I want to use the space? Do you want to occasionally walk on it, or is the area a play space for kids and pets? The answers determine your design and materials.
Meadow Consider creating a meadow where your lawn is now, adjusting the size to fit your space. Think ornamental grasses mixed with wildflowers.
Clean slate Remove both vegetation and the weed seed left in the dirt. Haul away the top 8 inches of soil, then water and see if anything rears its ugly head before moving on. Or try the more environmentally friendly sheet mulching technique — cover the area with cardboard or newspaper layers, add compost and mulch, then wait until the cover decomposes.
Accessorize While native grasses could be the backbone of a natural lawn, adding other plants into the design like bulbs, succulents, annuals and perennials creates successive and seasonal waves of color and interest.
Did you know? Nature dislikes a monoculture and loves diversity; mix a variety of plants together, but to avoid a hodgepodge look, use the same plants in groups of threes or fives.
Top secret Use pavers to wind a mysterious path through your space.
Victory Build or buy raised beds.
Dry humor Create a low-water gravel garden planted with hardy succulents and other drought-tolerant plants, then mulch with decorative gravel.
TOP LAWN ALTERNATIVES
Thymus "Elfin" or "Wooly"
Ophiopogon jap. "Nana"
Carex pansa or carex tumulicola
Dymondia margaretae
Myoporum parvifolium
No Mow mixed species blend
Garden design ideas and tips for when the days of groomed green grass are over.
Novato
Karyn
Novato
To our friends and neighbors, the value of home and community has become even more clear during this time. We are so proud to be part of our strong North Bay community. We continue to be a resource for you, albeit virtually for the time being. Please reach out to your favorite Coldwell Banker® agent by phone, email or social media for any real estate or community information. We are honored to serve you.
Creative. Authentic. Real Estate.
Here at Exceptionally Cool Homes, we think that every property is cool. And by cool we mean authentic. Whether the essence shines brightly from the curb or is deeply embedded in the history of the property, we will find the “hook”, and elevate it.
E.C.H. also believes in being memorable, and never neutral. Whether we are reaching out to an artist in Brooklyn to create a map or hanging a sign from a shipwreck...
RECENTLY SOLD IN TIBURON
269 TRINIDAD DRIVE
TIBURON | Sold Off-Market
We are so proud to have represented the buyers on this recently remodeled single-level waterfront home. In this fast paced market, because of our extensive agent network, we were able to set up one of the first showings for our buyers. It was “love at first sight”.
18 TANFIELD ROAD
TIBURON | Sweeping Views
Located in one of Tiburon’s most sought-after premiere locations, this gated residence is situated on approximately 1 acre of spectacular grounds and showcases sweeping Bay views.
TO OUR VALUED CLIENTS
We have had the honor of thoughtfully guiding our valued clients for over a combined 50 years and throughout this time, we have come to truly value our relationships with all of you. We have been there with you when you bought your first home to when you sold your home to downsize and retire, and for every life event in between. During these unprecedented and challenging times, we want you to know that we will always be here for as your trusted real estate advisers and should you have any questions or need any support, please reach out to us. We have always been in this together.
Exclusively represented by Nan Allen | 415.828.1500 nan@vanguardmarin.com DRE# 00823336
Link Allen | 415.302.8877 link@vanguardmarin.com DRE# 01378539
HISTORIC CHARM WITH MODERN CONVENIENCES THIS TREASURE
A West Marin Sunset Is the Perfect Escape
This photo was taken by Zachary Piña of San Rafael, @dagbert on Instagram. “In the chaos of the last six weeks, I found tremendous comfort in how the late singer/songwriter John Prine always managed to find optimism amid melancholy. I had one of his tunes in mind as I shot this watercolor sunset on the westward edge of Mount Vision, where this sort of grand show happens without fail, no matter what’s going on in the news, because that’s the way the world goes 'round.”
650 Main Street, Sausalito
3 Bed | 2.5 Bath | $1,699,000 Century Modern charmer with tranquil Bay and Alcatraz views. Expansive upper level Room a great lower studio Lower Crescent Bed 2 Bath $1,898,000 Mediterranean stunning World Class Bay Architectural details, & charming 1 Bed / Bath$1,699,000