In the right light, at the right time, everything is extraordinary. - aaron rose Celebrating Over 50 years in business!
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Designer: Jennifer Corteville
Photography: Kathleen Harrison
WHERE WESTERN TRADITIONS THRIVE
ESCAPE THE ORDINARY
Escape the ordinary and embrace a life of adventure, camaraderie, and timeless traditions at Wing & Barrel Ranch. Nestled in the heart of Sonoma, our exclusive club offers a sanctuary for those who cherish the outdoor lifestyle. We invite you to become a part of our community, where every day is a new outdoor adventure. From world-class sporting clays, dining experiences and luxurious amenities, our club embodies the essence of refined living with the rugged spirit of the outdoors. Engage in our youth and family programs, where the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts can learn, grow, and create lasting bonds. Discover the thrill of bocce ball, test your aim in archery, or perfect your fly casting technique – the possibilities are endless. Join us in preserving a legacy of heritage, conservation, and passion for the land. Discover the unparalleled beauty of Sonoma while cultivating lifelong friendships and unique experiences. Ready to elevate your outdoor lifestyle?
Learn more about membership at wingandbarrelranch.com/membership or call 707.732.4832 to begin your journey.
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NEWSHOWROOM GRANDOPENING
FEATURES
40 Wild and Free
The Sausalito floating home residents from the ‘70s: where the waterfront children are now.
46
Firefighters and Cancer
An urgent effort to protect those who protect us from cancer-causing chemicals.
51 Spaces
A Wine Country retreat in Sonoma, stunning renovation in San Anselmo, a conversation with Barbara Chambers and more.
71
Mill Valley Film Festival Guide
The festival kicks off with a schedule of in-person theater screenings and events, as well as virtual offerings.
IN
MARIN
23 Currents
A look at the supermoon, Jane Fonda, Marin rowers, pickleweed and more.
34 FYIs
Local women running for office and West Marin community organizations making a difference.
85 Wine Tasting Rooms
Unique sipping spots in Napa Valley and Sonoma County.
OUT & ABOUT
91 Calendar
A roundup of what to do in Marin and beyond.
96 Dine
An insider’s guide to dining and food in the Bay Area.
106 On the Scene
Snapshots from events around the county.
MARIN HOME
111 Backstory
A modern makeover, a San Rafael home gets a stylish revamp for fun and family.
PRESIDENT / OPERATIONS
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Art
ART DIRECTOR
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Jose Manuel Alorda, Nate Straubinger of Clout
Photography, Je Zaruba
COVER
Je Zaruba
Administration
CONTROLLER
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Co-Founders
Jim Wood, Nikki N. Wood
Introducing the Waiola Wellness Wing
Experience ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation at the Waiola Wellness Wing, part of the reimagined Diamond Head Tower at OUTRIGGER Reef Waikiki Beach Resort. Enjoy brand-new, spacious rooms and deluxe suites, including the luxurious Coral Reef Penthouse Suite. Enhance your stay with exclusive access to the Voyager 47 Club Lounge. Unwind at our state-of-the-art fitness center, and let your kids explore the daily adventures at the Coral Kids Club. Elevate your Waikīkī experience today.
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HOME TEAM
AS FALL BRIGHTENS our county with pumpkins on menus and doorsteps, kids testing out costumes weeks before Halloween and sport fields filled with colorful uniforms, we can all take a moment to enjoy the calm before the holiday storm. We hope you can find a quiet place to dive into this month’s issue, where you’ll find Spaces, offering inspiring homes, including the McGovern family’s Sonoma gathering place. Sounds like they had a solid team to create a dreamy compound to enjoy with extended family and friends. Again, proving that the right team of architects and builders can ease the stress.
Reading their story, I could relate to their hesitancy to start a new construction project after just completing their home in Larkspur. I’m not sure if there is anything that brings as many emotional highs and lows as a remodel. The high of falling in love with Serena & Lily wallpaper, finding a gate made of railroad ties on 1stdibs.com and the smell of fresh paint signaling the end, contrasted with the heartbreak of not passing inspections, bringing your neighbors to the brink of insanity (due to all the construction activity), all while trying to manage a team of people who can blame each other for anything that goes wrong.
As a chronic people pleaser, I should never try to manage a project. Lesson learned. I do want to compile a book of essays titled, It Can Go Wrong: Ten Very Expensive Home Construction Woes. The book idea was inspired by a lunch with my mother-in-law, where
she reminded me of the entirely new foundation they had to add to their home in Kentfield, an issue missed by the inspector years earlier when they purchased the house. Bam! Suddenly I felt better. Maybe the book could just be called Misery Loves Construction.
A more important topic in this issue, on page 46, Kirsten Neff talks to our county’s fire department about what they are doing about the alarming number of cancer cases amongst their ranks. Sadly, the focus of this article is on my dear friend, Rick Addicks, who left us way too early. Ironically, Rick used to get teased in the fire department when he and his family were mentioned in this magazine. As our best friends, they were easy targets for me whenever I needed a quote, or subject for an article. My favorite was when I needed a photo of a family having a good time at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and I remembered a perfect photo on their fridge (photo at left). Don’t worry, despite his expression of fear, their son Casey is thriving as a sophomore at USC.
Rick’s diagnosis of stage 4 esophageal cancer shocked us all, and the profound sadness of not seeing his smirk, hearing his laugh or seeing him roll his eyes, as his wife Kristin ignored him, this holiday season will be felt by many. Could he have caught it earlier? Hard to say, but either way, his passing has ignited a call for cancer screenings amongst our county’s firefighters, which will hopefully result in early detections and saved lives.
Looking towards a long-term solution, Assembly member Damon Connolly and State Senator Mike McGuire, are advocates for AB 2408, a law that would hold manufacturers accountable for toxic materials, and in the short term, more diligent pre-screening and testing is being advised. The men and women who are there to protect us during our worst moments need to be cared for — by us, as well.
Live retirement on your own terms
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LETTERS
Thrilled
The Sausalito on the Waterfront Foundation Board is thrilled to be recognized as one of the Best Community Events for our Lighted Boat Parade (Winterfest events). We couldn’t be more excited about the acknowledgment! — Kim Huff, Sausalito
September Cover
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Before I open the pages of this September 2024 issue of Marin Magazine, before I go any further, I must say this cover is the most beautiful cover I have ever seen on Marin Magazine. Absolutely striking! — Ernest Robles, Jr., Novato
I want to let you know how much I enjoy your September cover. The photograph is exceptional... mysterious, richly colored and beautifully lit. Congratulations to your art director.
— Neil Shakery, Corte Madera
Correction
From last issue’s “Looking Back” article: Barbara Boxer was elected to the Marin Board of Supervisors in 1976 and served six years before being elected to Congress. Boxer and Dianne Feinstein were both elected to the U.S. Senate for the first time in 1992. Feinstein won a special election and was sworn in that November, while Boxer took office in January 1993, making Feinstein the “senior” senator from California.
Jane Fonda Collabs With Her Like-Minded Marin Posse
Really good things can happen over dinner. Place Alice Waters, Margaret O’Leary, Andre Carothers, Annie Leonard, Shannon O’Leary Joy (no relation to Margaret) and Jane Fonda, yes, the Jane Fonda, at a table at Chez Panisse and — big things can happen. Each guest is a powerhouse on their own: Margaret O’Leary created her eponymous nationwide fashion brand 35 years ago; an avid protector of the ocean, Shannon has many board roles, including for Mission Blue/Sylvia Earle Alliance; Leonard and Carothers have collaborated on various projects in the sustainability space, such as the viral animated movie called The Story of Stuff and Greenpeace USA. Now Leonard partners with Jane Fonda, who at 86 is devoting her life to fighting climate change.
As the conversation turned towards supporting Jane’s efforts in climate change awareness, a limited-edition Margaret O’Leary poncho was born, aptly named Jane Poncho, and debuted at a Bonnie Raitt concert months later, with proceeds going to The Jane Fonda Climate Solutions Fund at the Marin Community Foundation. Here’s the scoop.
Details: The Jane Poncho retails for $295. Available at the downtown Mill Valley Margaret O’Leary store and margaretoleary.com
Why a poncho?
Margaret: Jane has been looking great in ponchos for years, and I love that they are one size fits all. We sourced the best organic cotton from Peru and Egypt because it’s lightweight and people have allergies. Cotton is also very breathable and doesn’t have that synthetic feeling.
Jane: I fell in love with ponchos when I spent a lot of time riding horses in Patagonia with my favorite ex-husband. Plus it’s a great Christmas present for people, and you don’t have to worry “Oh, is it going to fit them?” I’m excited to do this collaboration, because I’ve loved Margaret’s cashmere for years and just last year, I did all of my Christmas shopping at her Santa Monica location.
Why Marin Community Foundation?
Jane: For one thing, climate justice is part of their new strategy, the alliance was a perfect fit. However, there’s more of a logistical reason. Marin Community Foundation is hosting the Jane Fonda Climate Solutions fund in order to ensure donations to the fund are tax deductible. We needed a 501(c)(3) infrastructure, and also
there are a number of compliance and reporting issues. MCF takes care of all that for its hosted funds.
What do you get excited about?
Jane: We have to get people elected who are climate champions. Here in California so much of the really good legislation that would have solved the problem a decade ago gets stopped because elected California Democrats as well as Republicans take money from the fossil fuel industry. It’s been better lately, but it’s a problem. We understand it needs to be a gradual phasing out so that by the middle of the century, we are at zero.
READERS SHOUT OUT MARIN EDUCATORS
BY MIMI PINSON
Recently, a teacher wrote in to Marin Magazine about one of her colleagues.
“I have a great story for you!” wrote Janet Pollack, a teacher at Neil Cummins School in Corte Madera, about her fellow teacher Liza Mathews.
Pollack wrote Mathews is, “an outspoken advocate for the environment,” who retired after 31 years of teaching and engaging her school to recycle, reuse and reduce waste to take care of their surroundings.
Inspired by this message, we asked our audience on Facebook for more examples of great teachers. Here’s what you said:
“Oh, for sure Steve Coleman at Terra Linda High School! He’s the best history teacher, and he's also a former attorney. I was in his inaugural Street Law class, as well. He’s the GOAT at TLHS.”
Leigh Walker
“Shana Stewart, first grade Edna Maguire [Elementary]. There are so many creative aspects to her classroom and it’s done with humor and mutual respect.
Two words, she’s amazing.”
—Justine Corey-Whitehead
“I can't say enough about Elena Garton who teaches kindergarten at Tam Elementary. She is simply amazing… If anyone should be honored and applauded it is Elena.” —Kristen Kotik
“Woop woop!! I love Ms. Winkler! [Kathy Winkler]” —Olivia Kane
Know a fabulous Marin teacher? Tell us more at editorial@marinmagazine.com or on facebook.com/MarinMagazine
A LEGACY AT LUCAS VALLEY
Over 40 years in the making, now a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity awaits you in Marin County. Nestled amongst rolling hills under the beautiful coastal sky, 28 modern homes near the Marin Nature Preserve with impeccable attention to detail await. Meticulously designed to connect the indoors and outdoors, with Lanais and California Rooms, there is no compromising on peace of mind here. Our award-winning architects and planners knew that Legacy at Lucas Valley was just that, a Legacy in the making, paying homage to the Skywalker Ranch and the Eichler heritage, these enthusiasts set out on a mission to create a Haven all in its own, right here in Marin. With Eichler-Inspired exteriors, to well-appointed Thermador Chef’s Kitchens, and exquisite Kohler plumbery, each room brings luxury to a new level. These homesites also come with Accessory Dwelling Units or In-Law Units already built, complete with full kitchens, living rooms, and private bedrooms, so no matter your preference whether it be a private home for multi-generational living, boomerang kids, Au-Pairs, or a home o ce, you are ready when you live at Legacy.
The team at Haven Development is proud to bring this legacy to Marin County. The folks at Haven know that a foundation built on trust, conveyed with passion and respect is the bare minimum. That’s why they strive to be the Bay Area’s luxury home builder o ering peace of mind with every homesite. From the rst step onto the driveway to the breath of fresh air in the backyard, you’ll feel the Haven di erence every step of the way. The folks at Haven care about every home they build, and are proud of every relationship formed along the way. With a diverse team of experts, garnering lifelong experiences to create homes built with the kind of integrity you won’t nd anywhere else. Let’s make your next home a Haven.
With di erent cultures and life experiences, the team re ects the rich diversity of the Bay Area itself. Along with a rock-solid work ethic and valuable experience, these building professionals are thorough, resilient and obsessed with quality. In other words, they’re the best in the business, building the best homes in the Bay Area.
Contact Haven Development today.
BY MIMI PINSON
BLUES & BREWS
$150-250 per person marinfostercare.org WHEN WHERE WHY YOU SHOULD GO
OUT
October 4, 2024, 6 p.m. or October 5, 2024, 5 p.m. Pacheco Ranch Winery, 235 Alameda del Prado, Novato Nestled in a private winery and vineyards, Blues & Brews, an annual fundraiser to benefit Marin Foster Care Association, features live music, a cocktail bar car, local craft beers, Southern-inspired food stations, online auction, and an inspiring program that will offer ways to support the foster care community in Marin County and beyond.
CELEBRATION OF DIA DE LOS MUERTOS
Oct. 26, 5:00-8:00 p.m.
750 Bridgeway, Sausalito
Experience the magic of Master of Ceremony, Jay Alexander, at an unforgettable Día de los Muertos evening. While experiencing the work of iconic Latin American artists of the San Francisco Bay Area, enjoy delicious Mexican food and drinks through the night. Music, art exhibits, and special dance performances to entertain will all be part of this magical celebration.
$125
SausalitoCenterForThe Arts.Org/Milagros
Want to see all the images from our RSVP Hot Ticket events? Visit marinmagazine.com/arts-events/on-the-scene
A common refrain about our corner of California is that “There are no seasons here.” It’s true that our evergreen trees and mild climate make it seem like we only have two modes of weather: “on” and “o .” But in reality, seasonal changes manifest in surprising ways in our environment.
Enter the humble pickleweed, a low-growing succulent which lives in coastal salt marshes, and one of just a few plants that can withstand the shifting tides and salinity of that habitat. By the time fall comes around, after absorbing salt all summer and after its seeds ripen, the plant’s tops turn red before falling o . The result? Wetlands bathed in autumnal colors as the whole plant changes color from green to red.
Watch the transition at salt marshes like Limantour and Drake’s Esteros, China Camp Salt Marsh, Bothin Marsh, Rush Creek, San Pablo Bay Wildlife Refuge and in smaller quantities at Santa Venetia Preserve and McInnis Park.
ELEVATE YOUR EVERYDAY
REMODEL YOUR BATHROOM AND KITCHEN
Are you thinking about remodeling your home? Where should you begin? In 2002, we interviewed many of our clients and asked what they needed before committing to a remodel project. Their responses were clear:
• I need to know what it will look like
• I need to know what it will cost.
• I need to know how long it will take .
With this insight, we developed our “Feasibility Study” which provides these answers in a fast, reliable manner for a small, reasonable fixed sum. This allows clients to confidently decide if their project is feasible and whether to move forward.
Our collaborative design process brings your vision to life, and with our impeccable construction standards, you’ll love us even more at the end of your project than you did at the start.
If you are considering a remodel but not sure where to start, give us a call to start your Feasibility Study today!
NEW IN TOWN
BY MIMI PINSON
Marin is bustling with new arts organizations and businesses.
MARIN JAZZ , a new nonpro t that raises funds for afterschool arts programs through big-name jazz and blues performances, debuts its inaugural season this October. Says CEO Todd Ghanizadeh: “Musicians supporting after school programs for children, well, it doesn’t get better than that.”
Through 2024, ve performances are scheduled at Marin Center’s renovated Showcase Theater:
• Oct. 4, Bringing a Taste of Cuba to Marin with Tito Puente, Jr.
• Oct. 18, Three Ladies Sing the Blues with Terrie Odabi, Tia Carroll and Lady Bianca.
• Oct . 31, Halloween Bash and Costume Party with Pride & Joy SF.
• Nov. 23, Duke Ellington Tribute with Kim Nalley & Paula West.
• Dec. 20, Holiday Show with the former ladies of the Supremes, Scherrie Payne, Lynda Laurence with Joyce Vincent and the Tony Lindsay Band.
Plus, additions to San Anselmo Avenue.
Fairfax’s Padma Studio expanded to a second location in San Anselmo. Inspired by the lotus ower (“padma” in Sanskrit), which blooms from muddy waters, the studio is dedicated to healing, renewal and joy. padmastudiomarin.com
And, MARIN FASHION NIGHT is a Fashion Week-style event to celebrate the county’s local designers and artists with a fashion show and interactive art installations at Presidio Yacht Club on Oct. 5. Founder Gerry Kelly, of SONAS in Fairfax, says the vision for the event was, “a night of fashion, art, and music that brings the Marin community together in a truly special way.”
Chinese chicken salad is now even closer at hand. Comforts Cafe renovated their take-out space to become the “Marketplace,” with a new layout for better ow — in addition to a remodel of the main restaurant. comfortscafe.com
Luxury consignment store Curate Marin opened in early summer, selling art and secondhand fashion to stylish shoppers. Connect with the store to learn about special “sip and shop” nights to browse with friends and bubbles in tow. @curatemarin
Padma Studio
Comforts Marketplace
Join Local Artist
PAIGE PETERSON
Discussion and Book Signing at Book Passage
SUNDAY OCTOBER 27, 4PM
Book Passage
51 Tamal Vista Blvd, Corte Madera (415) 927-0960
PAIGE PETERSON
Harry Benson CBE
MEDALING FOR MARIN
BY EMMA ROBERTSON
Entertain in Style
This holiday season, impress your guests with a dazzling table that radiates warmth and elegance.
Elevate every gathering with The Indigo Table’s exclusive holiday themes, designed to transform any setting into a masterpiece.
Our sustainable and reusable tablescape kit ensures your table looks stunning, year after year. Celebrate effortlessly in style and make every moment unforgettable.
Local athletes place in an international championship.
Big congrats to seven Marin Rowing Association athletes for bringing home some bling from U19 (Under 19) World Championships in both men’s and women’s coxed fours and eights teams in St. Catharines, Ontario. Among the seven were students and graduates of Redwood and Branson High Schools.
It was only recently that the Team USA rowing team also medaled, winning a gold and bronze medal in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Marin Rowing Association’s Head Coach for the Youth Boys Geordie Macleod said many of the U.S. Olympic rowers initially rowed for the national U19 team — just like Marin’s own medalists in St. Catharines.
Whether or not these local athletes add Olympic medals to their collection is to be determined, but their most recent successes in the U19 Championships has the Marin Rowing Association looking forward to the future.
The Look
ICE POPPY, making hand crafted bike bags in Mill Valley since 2013. If you love to ride the trails of Mt. Tam or just take a leisurely ride, our hand made bike bags are a great way to quickly access your essential items.
NAILS, WAXING AND HEAD SPA. Where luxury meets relaxation. Experience ultimate relaxation with nourishing head spa treatments and soothing massages.
BLOOMINGNAIL’S
1 BlackfieldDrive, Suite 1, Tiburon, CA 415.960.6868 bloomingnailandspa.com
ACCEPTING FALL, WINTER, AND HOLIDAY CONSIGNMENTS
Encore Consignment has served Marin since 1984 with luxury designer consignment at accessible prices. Also carries handbags, fabulous shoes, hats, finejewelry and other accessories. Browse our curated collection and meet our dedicated staff. Marin’s best kept secret!
ENCORE DESIGNER CONSIGNMENT 401 Fourth Street, San Rafael Open Mon–Sat 10–4 415.456.7309 encoreconsignment.com
When you think of West Marin, you might envision the majestic redwoods and serene creeks where coho salmon dart through the waters of Samuel P. Taylor State Park. You might picture the rolling hills of Mount Barnabe, vibrant green in winter and golden in summer. Some visitors may think West Marin is just these wild, scenic spaces, perhaps dotted with a few sleepy villages, but without much else happening.
Yes, West Marin is a treasure trove of natural beauty, but it’s also a dynamic place filled with a diverse community: from cowpokes and horse wranglers to hold-out hippies, unhoused philosophers, new immigrants, old laborers, tech entrepreneurs, artists, social workers and teachers. These individuals collectively contribute to a vibrant culture with as many needs as the rest of Marin County — perhaps even more. When you look at the Healthy Places Index for Marin County, the lowest scores include cohorts in Marin City, Novato, San Rafael’s Canal District and West Marin. Despite comprising only about 15% of the county’s population, West Marin residents are spread across two-thirds of the landmass. This geographic separation has historically made it difficult for West Marinites to access consistent public health and disaster preparedness services.
Enter the West Marin Community Resiliency Team, or CRT. Marin County Public Health defines a CRT as a community-led initiative aimed at improving awareness and knowledge of public health threats and prevention strategies while increasing access to support and resources. By enhancing awareness and access to services, the CRT initiative helps reduce exposure to threats from natural disasters, infectious diseases and other emergencies throughout the county.
West Marin Community Services (WMCS) and the San Geronimo Valley Community Center (SGVCC) are two local nonprofits that have collaborated over the past several years to advocate for these county resources, refine the CRT’s mission and implement life-changing programs in hard-to-reach communities. This unique collaborative approach involves dozens of partners working
across sectors to ensure that West Marin’s dispersed population is well cared for.
Alexa Davidson, executive director of SGVCC, emphasizes that “The West Marin CRT creates better access to services and resources for our rural communities. Over the past few years, we have focused on developing, coordinating and sustaining a communications and coordination infrastructure that will uplift hard-to-reach places and people. We are concentrating on expanding access and removing barriers to information, resources and services to support response and recovery in the face of increased public health threats.”
And at WMCS, Executive Director Socorro Romo values collaboration and efficiency, and the CRT program embodies both. “Nothing happens by itself,” she says, adding, “The more we work together, the better we are able to serve.” When a public health emergency like a fire, flood or earthquake strikes, we are all in this together, whether you live in East or West Marin. This is why the West Marin CRT’s motto is “We are stronger together.” In recent years, WMCS and SGVCC have distributed tens of thousands of COVID-19 tests, coordinated vaccine clinics resulting in thousands of administered vaccines and hosted annual Community Health Fairs in each major West Marin hub — the impacts of which have been lifesaving.
Other CRT programs include Narcan overdose reversal distribution and training, which has already saved at least seven lives since its inception. The West Marin Community Health Fairs are another impactful initiative, providing vaccinations, health screenings and even new glasses to residents who would otherwise have to travel "over the hill" — an equity issue for those unable to take time off work or without access to reliable transportation. Disaster preparedness, including for the effects of climate change, is also a core component of the West Marin CRT. They also host bilingual CPR- and lifesaving skills-training throughout each year, working very closely with local disaster councils and Marin County’s Office of Emergency Management.
West Marin Community Services booth
A critical part of the CRT program is its successful engagement with volunteer neighborhood liaisons and “Promotores” — trusted members of the Latinx community who help communicate vital public health messages and bring resources to those living on West Marin ranches and elsewhere who may be skeptical of county authorities. These Promotores then pass on lifesaving information within their own communities. Without the Promotores, county resources would fail to reach so many West Marin residents. So much for sleepy villages without much going on. Thanks to innovative and collaborative approaches like the CRT program addressing the unique needs of our rural communities, we can all appreciate those rolling hills, vast beaches and elegant redwood groves even more, knowing that our friends in West Marin are being well taken care of.
A New Hope. A New Home.
—Rhea Suh, President & CEO, Marin Community Foundation
West Marin Community Services Executive Director Socorro Romo
Community event at the San Geronimo Valley Community Center
STEPPING UP FOR COMMUNITY
BY EMMA ROBERTSON
It’s the era of women running for office and adopting leadership roles in their community — Marin is no exception. We spoke with a handful of women who are running for the first time for public office, finding their own niches of positive change around the county. Keep reading to see what they had to say.
Not seeing someone you think should be included? Let us know at editorial@marinmagazine.com and we can include them in our digital version.
Editor’s Note: Answers have been edited for brevity and clarity and a couple of responses were provided over email. For longer versions, visit the QR code at the end of the article.
HEATHER MCPHAIL SRIDHARAN
Kentfield
Running for District 2 Marin
County Supervisor
Why are you running and what positive changes are you looking to implement?
I am running for Supervisor to ensure we retain what makes Marin unique while addressing the important challenges we face today, including: affordable housing, especially for our workforce and older adults; climate change strategies, particularly for wildfires, flood control, sustainable transportation, and sea level rise; fiscal responsibility and accountability so we don’t waste tax dollars; and responsive community engagement.
Marin is at an inflection point. While challenges like housing affordability, climate change, homelessness, and traffic exist, I see a vibrant future for Marin.
How has the shift toward women in politics played a role in your campaign and priorities?
I feel like I'm part of the pink wave sweeping our country right now. With the announcement of Kamala Harris on the presidential ticket, women are very motivated to turn out and vote for
women up and down the ballot. When I go door knocking, I feel this new energy and momentum among women that wasn’t in play before Harris entered the race.
MAUREEN “MO” DE NIEVA-MARSH
San Rafael
Running for the San Rafael City Schools Board of Education
Why are you running?
Drawing from over two decades of dedicated work with government agencies and nonprofits, my journey has been guided by a resolute desire to uplift the voices and needs of those who often go unheard. I firmly believe that trust is the cornerstone of effective community engagement and progress. We must move at the speed of trust. Furthermore, my personal experiences with trauma, housing instability, and reliance on public assistance provide me with a wellspring of empathy and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by many community members.
What positive changes are you looking to make in this position? The first one is centering and strengthening student voices in this process. I believe in a model of youth and adult partnerships for our students to play a role in decision-making at the District and the school site levels. The second is about strengthening accessibility of information sharing in real-time from the District to parents, and guardians in families in the home language they best communicate in so they can feel bolstered to participate.
DIANA MAIER
East San Rafael
Running for Marin Municipal Water District Board, Division 2
Why are you running?
The issues before the board right now are more critical than ever. We almost ran out of water in 2021 so we desperately need to make a plan for supply. Wildfire preparation is the other big issue. So it's a really critical time. [So it seemed like serving on the water board right now would be a chance for] impactful public service. I also think the board would really benefit from having a woman on it. It's only ever had one woman, and there's no woman on it now, and a number of people, including men on the Board, told me that they would really like to see a woman balance things out. So I really love that idea as well, of
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representing women, whether there hasn't been someone for a while.
How has the shift toward women in politics played a role in your campaign and priorities?
I think part of that was driving me was that idea it's really important for women to be stepping up, and the impact that it might have on my kids to see me instead of complaining about issues that I was concerned about, step up and do something about them. I think, as a mom, that's something I think about all the time — what lessons are my kids getting from me, and what am I teaching them? So that I think had a part in it too.
CHANTEL WALKER
San Anselmo
Running for San Anselmo Town Council
Why are you running?
I'm running for the San Anselmo Town Council, with great enthusiasm. I am running in our town because I have enjoyed living in San Anselmo during this time and enjoyed many of the benefits of living here, and I think as you benefit, it's also good to serve. Running in San Anselmo was really an extension of some of the communitybased work that I've done as a volunteer for many, many years.
How has the shift toward women in politics played a role in your campaign and priorities?
I think in my campaign, I have felt an embrace from people who are excited about seeing women from a diversity of backgrounds, volunteer experience and professional experience come in.
How would the impact you make in this role trickle down to other nearby cities and communities?
One of my roles in the County Community Development Agency was working across cities and towns. I would practice the art of collaboration. That is
the ability to listen deeply, to understand the similarities and distinctions, and still produce results together. I would think about the near-term and generational impact of big decisions on San Anselmo and seek information about the impact of those decisions on adjacent communities and Marin as a whole.
Why are you running?
CRYSTAL MARTINEZ
San Rafael Running for Marin Community College District Board of Trustees Area 2
I’m running for Marin Community College District Trustee because I’ve experienced the transformative power of education firsthand. Community college allowed me to support my family while earning my degree, opening doors that shaped my future. As a mother and current Trustee at the College of Marin, I’m dedicated to ensuring that every student has access to the life-changing opportunities that education provides.
How has the shift toward women in politics played a role in your campaign and priorities?
I’m deeply inspired by the significant shift of women in politics, especially during this pivotal presidential election. Serving as a Harris delegate at the DNC was a profound experience that left me both motivated and proud.
Construction
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FREE Where the Waterfront Children Are AND
BY JENNIFER GENNARI
Bohemians, artists and renegades — that’s how most describe the people who lived on abandoned World War II vessels in the decades after the shipyard closed. The truth of that era, however, is as complex and diverse as the individuals and the kids they raised.
Unsurprisingly, the waterfront children of the ‘70s grew up with a freedom unheard of for youth today. They roamed the docks in packs and learned early the value of community.
Their wild and free upbringing wasn’t great for everyone. “There’s a pretty long list of people I grew up with who are not around,” said Tahoe Boaz, noting that some died and some have been imprisoned.
Yet many others have thrived, shaped in positive ways by their unconventional childhood. Here are five individuals who, although they have moved off the docks, continue to contribute to the community they still love.
PHOTOS BY CATHERINE LYONS-LABATE
Southern Marin firefighter Tahoe Boaz is doing what he always wanted. “I’m super lucky to have my dream job in my hometown,” he said. “I’m looking after the community I grew up in, every day, in emergency situations.”
Born in San Francisco, Boaz moved to Galilee Harbor (then Napa Street Pier) when he was 4. He and his father lived in deep water on a 30-foot Chris-Craft. Boaz was 13 before they had electricity; twice, candles ignited fires in their home.
“The neighbors were so important,” he said, recalling the way they helped each other in emergencies. His father often hosted dock barbecues, and everyone would hang out together. “Everyone became family.”
It wasn’t easy, however. “Some people lived on nothing,” he said. “That was something I didn’t want for myself.” Boaz admired his father, who told him, “if you work hard, you won’t get left behind.” He worked alongside his father, a talented woodworker, building many houses and restaurants in Sausalito.
Boaz grew up boating, discovering an aptitude for mechanics and problem-solving. If his outboard broke down, he’d paddle over to the yard, find a nail and use it as a shear pin. For a time, he worked as a jib trimmer, racing other people’s sailboats. He brings his experience to his Chris-Craft dealership at Clipper Yacht Harbor as well as his position as one of the drivers and instructors of the fireboat.
From a young age, Boaz was aware of the way the “hill people” of Sausalito perceived the “boat people.” It was especially hard when he’d visit friends who lived in houses with hot water and modern appliances. “We were jealous of them,” he said. “They’d open up their freezer and microwave a snack after school.”
“I’m a hill person now,” he acknowledged. “I have a washer and dryer.”
Hard work made it possible. For many people, Sausalito is unaffordable, which saddens Boaz. “A lot of the (waterfront) people have been priced out,” he said. “They moved further and further, and they can’t come back.”
Kaitlyn Gallagher
Kaitlyn Gutmann Gallagher is the teacher she is today because of her childhood and her education at Martin Luther King School in Marin City. “I have a really open mind,” she said. “I know there are more ways to be and more choices for human experience.”
An English teacher at San Domenico School, Gallagher grew up on Gate Six on The Camel. The 8x8x16 space had no walls or rooms for their family of four. “When I went to college it felt weird to close the doors!”
The waterfront children were often shooed outside. “It was very, very free — and dangerous and beautiful and scary,” she said. “It was like Burning Man. 'OMG that’s so beautiful,’ and then, to your right, ‘That’s not OK.’”
She learned early to be wary of her environment — everything from storms to dogs that would bite and dudes to keep your distance from. She said, “We were street-smart in the houseboat way.” Gallagher, who is also an essayist and poet, values creativity and art, which was very much supported by the community. “I was so fortunate to have the parents I do, but other kids weren’t so lucky,” she said. “I credit my parents and my brother, as well as many other adults who cared about me. I know it could have been otherwise.”
The proximity of neighbors meant everyone was connected. “Living the way we did didn’t allow for much arrogance or superficiality,” she said. “I miss how real we were with each other.”
What she doesn’t miss is the stress of wintertime. “We’d get blown around, all hands on deck, crashing into other boats,” she remembered. When she moved to a fixer-upper home in Fairfax, newly pregnant, her husband wondered why she wasn’t worried. “I told him, ‘It’s not going to sink!’”
Tahoe Boaz
Kaitlyn Gallagher
Tahoe Boaz
Reason Bradley
Reason Bradley, owner of Universal Sonar Mount, is a self-taught welder and maker. He credits his waterfront childhood for creative freedom and, crucially, access to raw material.
“We had limitless amounts of wood and nails, and there wasn’t any regulation,” he said. “We’d build bicycle jumps, scavenge up some material and build something cool.”
Bradley’s first home was in the Arques shipyard on Gate Three, behind Mollie Stone’s Market. Then, around age 11, his mother and three siblings moved to the Gates Co-op. “The Co-op was pretty wild,” he recalled. “Walking on dilapidated old piers where you can see the nails and the structure underneath, you learn how to not fall in the bay.”
The hazards of boat living were tempered by caring adults. “People on the hill thought we were feral and wild,” he said. “We didn’t know any different; that’s how we were raised. Everyone had eyes on you.” His family lived on the first concrete barge built, which his sister Maude still lives on.
At a young age, he worked beside his godfather Peter Lamb, a shipwright, and with boatbuilder Jon Bielinski. “He took me under his wing,” Bradley said. “I worked on Annabelle in the Arques shipyard until I was 12, 13 years old.”
In his teens, he gravitated from wooden boatbuilding to metalworking and machining. He sailed in the Pacific Northwest, crabbed and logged in Alaska and worked on film sets. In the early 2000s, he teamed up with his friend Alexander Rose to build BattleBots for the reality TV series.
Bradley is proud to work in the Marinship. “I try to give back,” noting that he restored the iconic sea lion statue after it was knocked over in a storm. When there’s an issue in town, people say, “‘Oh, Reason can fix that, he’ll know what to do.’”
Bradley now lives in Mill Valley, in an 1890s house, with gardens and fruit trees. His ties to Sausalito remain strong.
“Our shop is in Sausalito, my heart is very much in Sausalito, my community,” he said. “I don’t miss it a lot because I’m very much still here.”
The Bradley sisters (Reason not pictured)
Krystal Gambie
Krystal Gambie is the third child of a large and well-known family headed by Penelope and Michael “Woodstock” Haas. Artist and activist, her parents started an alternative press. Counting half siblings, the couple eventually had six children. Gambie was born in The Down Winter, a floating home built by Ray Speck. Her sister Alissandre Haas and half-sister Melinda Pergerson, who still live on the docks, run a successful design shop, Tile Fever, on Gate Five Road. Gambie has just returned to the area after living in Baltimore. She is the owner of Waterfront Wonders, a Sausalito gift shop that pays tribute to the waterfront community with art, books and more.
What Gambie treasures from her past are the freedom and independence to make things and explore. “We built our own floats, hands covered in blisters and rust,” she said.
The kids of the waterfront roamed all over Gate Six. “We were the funky friends club, and our playground was really big,” she recalled. “We’d go under the docks and spook people who were out walking.”
When her parents broke up, Joe Tate took in Gambie, her sisters and her mother. “Everybody’s boat was leaking back then, and for him to take us in was really amazing,” she said.
She’s happy where she lives now, on Caledonia Street. “I love it, but it’s an apartment,” she said. In her childhood home, on the water, “It felt like we had more. We weren’t limited that much.” In communal space, they had chickens, goats and a garden.
“I do romanticize it a lot,” she said, noting that there were challenges. “Water was always leaking on us. There was a group of kids who were scarred.”
Still, Gambie misses the connections. “It was so open and tight-knit and available and supportive,” she said. “A lot of the community were outcasts, and that’s why they came — to find family.”
Alexander Rose
“I’m a person who loves to build things,” says Alexander Rose, an industrial designer and co-founder of the Long Now Foundation. “Growing up in a junkyard was magical. There were infinite things to build with.” He remembers making forts, minibikes, catapults and even a zipline.
Rose, who lives in Mill Valley now, was shaped by his parents’ experiences. His father, Timothy, was the first artist to rent space in the ICB Building, subletting and recruiting artists to create the studios and gallery it is today. His mother, Annette Rose, served as county supervisor. She was catalyzed by their eviction from their first houseboat. “It defined our lives. My mom wouldn’t have gotten into politics,” he said. “When you’re marched out of your house by sheriffs with a nine-month pregnant mom, it makes a huge impact.”
Since 1997, Rose has been working with computer scientists to build a monument-scale, all-mechanical 10,000-year clock. He has made winning combat robots with Reason Bradley and built large pyrotechnic displays for Burning Man.
His childhood inspired him to see the humanity in everyone. “The people that society might push aside because they don’t fit the norm have huge amounts of value,” he said. “They have a lot for us to learn from — they are interesting and amazing people.”
“It was a time when people could live in Marin, where interstitial people lived in interstitial spaces and did art and were creative,” he said. The changes in the waterfront don’t make him happy. “Anybody who didn’t buy anything got pushed out. That’s the saddest part.”
The waterfront children remain close, aware that they were seen as misfits. “From the outside it looked scary, but everyone was our friend,” he recalled. “There was no door we couldn’t go through in that community.”
“We were mixing with the intelligentsia and the weirdos,” he added. “I don't know if there is another place in the world like that.”
The Rose family. Alexander as teenager, left
Krystal Gambie
PHOTOS BY CATHERINE LYONS-LABATE, FROM HER BOOK SAUSALITO: ONCE UPON A WATERFRONT, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. ONCE UPON A WATERFRONT CONTAINS OVER 180 PHOTOGRAPHS, DATING FROM 1983–2005, OF THE SAUSALITO GATE CO-OPERATIVE AND STORIES FROM THE PEOPLE WHO LIVED THERE.
Protecting Those Who Protect Us:
An Urgent Effort to Protect Fire ghters from Cancer-Causing Chemicals
By Kirsten Jones Neff
n a clear morning last May a long row of fire trucks lined the shore of Fort Baker in Sausalito, gleaming before the backdrop of the Golden Gate Bridge. The cry of bagpipes floated over the bay where a fire boat waited for its moment — a traditional water salute. This was a memorial for Ross Valley Fire Captain Rick Addicks, and fire ladders rose toward the sky, supporting an American flag to honor the fallen 22-year veteran of the Marin County fire service. In April 2024, Addicks died of occupational esophageal cancer at age 55, one year after he was diagnosed. His wife Kristen spoke of his abiding commitment to his career and his firefighting “family,” and as the firefighting community paid tribute to Addicks’ life and service, it became clear that as a lawyer as well as a firefighter, he spent his career not only fighting fires, but also advocating for the physical and mental health of his fire service peers.
“We loved Rick,” says Sid Jamotte, one of Addicks’ younger colleagues at the Ross Valley Fire Department. “When Rick got sick, cancer became so much more real.” Jamotte describes Addicks’ efforts to look out for the well-being of his colleagues as non-confrontational, but inquiring and persistent. “I asked him what he would like me to do once he passed, and he said, ‘Keep charging.’ And I will, because that is what he did,” says Jamotte.
According to Jamotte, who is now the Health and Safety Chair of the Marin Professional Firefighters Local 1775, and John Bagala, the president of the same union, the number of cancer diagnoses amongst the ranks of the 465 firefighters in the nine fire agencies across Marin County continues to rise at an alarming rate. “It used to be heart attacks, then vehicle accidents that were line-of-duty deaths for firefighters,” says Bagala. “Then, in 2014, we lost more firefighters by suicide than line-of-duty deaths. On
Wearing forget-me-nots, picked from a favorite family trail, Rick Addicks’ family walks down the aisle at his memorial.
the heels of that, there has been this rise in cancer. Now cancer is the leading cause of death among firefighters. So we have to ask ourselves the question: Why do the number of firefighters diagnosed with cancer keep going up? We cannot slide backwards protecting firefighters’ lives.”
In December of 2020, Matthew Alba, a San Francisco Fire Department battalion chief was at his home in San Anselmo getting ready for a bike ride with his daughter when he had a seizure. His daughter, just 11 years old at the time, called 911, then ran across the street to get help. Alba was stabilized and diagnosed with incurable brain cancer. Despite dealing with chronic cancer, Alba continues to work for the San Francisco Fire Department. He has undergone treatment, including major brain surgery to remove a large tumor, and while he has not experienced physical deficits, Alba has some cognitive deficits and his communication skills have been affected by aphasia, a disorder caused by damage in the area of the brain that controls language expression. After 26 years in the field, Alba is no longer on active duty, but assumed a position as battalion chief in charge of the Division of Health, Safety and Wellness
for SFFD. He is also a board member of the San Francisco Firefighters Cancer Prevention Foundation. The Foundation, founded by 30-year veteran Tony Stefani, who was diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2001, supports Northern California firefighters who are facing a cancer diagnosis and commissions science-based studies around cancer and cancer prevention.
“As long as I am working in the Fire Department, I will continue to try to protect firefighters,” says Alba. One of the exercises prescribed to Alba to regain his ability to access language is to read complex material out loud. “I alternate reading poetry with reading peer-reviewed scientific journals that include the studies that tie cancer to fire service,” he says. “In the past, the connection was hypothetical. Now science has confirmed it as a fact. Firefighters are the modern version of the canary in a coal mine because we are exposed to so many known carcinogens.”
According to research by the Centers for Disease Control and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, occupational cancer is now the leading cause of line-of-duty deaths in the fire service. The International Association of Firefighters found that nearly 75% of
those honored at the Fallen Firefighter Memorial in September 2022 died of occupational cancer. Fire service representatives and legislators in many states across the U.S. are working to classify all cancers contracted by firefighters as “presumptive,” meaning the disease is related directly to the occupation, something that is critical to supporting firefighters as they seek workers’ compensation and disability benefits.
Firefighters have long known the risks of exposure to carcinogens in the smoke from burning buildings and in firefighting foam, but as researchers investigate possible causes for increasing rates of cancer, the PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in the firefighting “turnouts” (protective gear) have been implicated. These synthetic “forever chemicals,” named so because they are highly persistent in the environment, are used in industry and consumer products worldwide. Firefighting gear is particularly laden with PFAS, which are used for thermoregulation and heat and water resistance, including in the layers of clothing close to the firefighter’s skin.
“We’ve known firefighting is one of the most dangerous jobs. We’ve always know. Now as science and technology progress,
Matthew Alba ghts a wild re
Matthew Alba with his SFFD battalion
we have to make improvements to make ourselves more safe,” say Bagala. As cancer diagnoses and deaths impact fire agencies, many leaders in the Northern California community have become increasingly vocal about the urgent need to reduce chemical exposure, and are adamant about the long-term industry knowledge of the cancer risk that PFAS pose and the need to hold manufacturers accountable. In June of 2023, 3M Company settled a $10 billion class action lawsuit assuming accountability for the PFAS in Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF), and currently a tidal wave of class action and personal injury lawsuits against manufacturers 3M, DuPont, BASF, Tyco Fire Products and others, points to manufacturers' knowledge of the grave health risks of PFAS used in foam and turnout gear. Internal documentation from as far back as 1970 confirms that the company DuPont knew that PFAS were “highly toxic when inhaled,” and, in the decades since, multiple internal documents from DuPont, 3M and other manufacturers point to awareness of PFAS as “persistent,” “bioaccumulative” and “toxic.”
“The equipment manufacturers that make the gear we wear have been lying to us for years,” says Union President Bagala. “They knew these chemicals were not safe, and, like Big Tobacco, they had a big campaign to convince us otherwise. The last thing we expected is that these manufacturers intentionally, or unintentionally, have been poisoning our people.”
The Local 1775 union has purchased a copy of Burned, a 2023 documentary film that follows the chronology of industry suppression and misrepresentation of information about the health risks of PFAS, and will hold screenings for the Marin County fire community as well as the general public in the coming year.
“A minority of people have been profiting from a majority of people suffering,” says SFFD’s Alba. “Companies have been making money off of these chemicals.” As
awareness grows among the fire service, politicians and the general public, the needle has begun to move, and California and the Bay Area are on the forefront of changemaking. In 2020, California joined 13 other states, passing a ban on PFAS compounds from firefighting foams. This law took effect on January 1, 2022. Then, last May, San Francisco became the first city in the nation to ban the chemicals from the city’s firefighting gear. A local ordinance requires the city to invest an estimated $10 million to replace firefighting turnouts by June 30, 2026. Meanwhile, in Sacramento, AB 2408 proposes a ban on the manufacturing, sale and distribution of firefighter gear that contain PFAS. The bill, authored by state Assembly member Matt Haney of
PFAS-free gear made by a company called Stedfast. Unfortunately, in order to meet “vertical flame test” regulations set by the National Fire Protection Association, the gear uses a fire retardant that is also a known carcinogen, so the search for effective non-toxic turnouts continues. In Marin County, Jamotte is looking into
"The equipment manufacturers that make the gear we wear have been lying to us for years"
San Francisco’s District 17 and sponsored by California Professional Firefighters, passed unanimously in the Assembly and is on its way to review in the Senate.
In his separate roles in the Fire Department and on the board of the San Francisco Firefighters Cancer Prevention Foundation, Alba is involved in efforts to protect firefighters by establishing health testing protocols, studying supplements such as sulforaphane for efficacy in mitigating cellular damage and finding non-toxic replacement turnouts. SFFD recently concluded a 90-day trial of
an opportunity to replace the “bunker” gear, which is for training purposes only and does not require the same level of protection, with PFAS-free alternatives. “There is more and more stuff coming out now,” he says. “A firefighter in Florida created a set of bunker gear for training with no chemicals whatsoever. We can wear these turnouts in training and we are not absorbing known carcinogens.”
Jamotte, Bagala and Alba all say that the process of replacing turnouts nationwide will be a matter of public awareness, leading to political and financial will at
SFFD fie ghters
local, state and national levels. Assembly member Damon Connolly, who represents Marin in the California Assembly, and the North Bay’s State Senator Mike McGuire, have both been vocal advocates for AB 2408. “If there is change at the state level holding manufacturers accountable, it will lead to change at the local level,” says Bagala. “But this is a longterm fix. Even if we start replacing our turnouts today, there are approximately 400,000 paid professional firefighters — and each has a set of two turnouts. That is an investment, and it will take time.” Bagala estimates it will take five to 10 years before fire departments across the nation see turnouts free of harmful chemicals.
Josh McHugh of San Anselmo and Rick Addicks were best friends for three decades. Both were fire captains — McHugh in the Southern Marin Fire District and Addicks at the Ross Valley Fire Department. They worked together, surfed together, skied together and raised their families together. “I lost the best friend I ever had,” says McHugh of Addicks’ death in April. Something else the two men shared is a cancer diagnosis. McHugh was diagnosed with occupational colorectal cancer on Cinco de Mayo, 2020, at age 51, which forced him to retire after 26 years in the fire service. “I loved firefighting so much, and I miss it terribly,” he says. “When I hear a siren go by I still wonder what is going on. I cherish every moment of my career.” After treatment and surgery, McHugh’s cancer is in remission, but he continues to face post-treatment health challenges.
Because the transition to non-toxic gear will take time, McHugh believes it is critical that fire agencies establish other immediate ways to protect firefighters. “Trying to get manufacturers to change their products is very slow,” says McHugh. “So we need health screenings, preventative care and awareness. And there are also simple changes we can make. For example,
we used to just have one set of turnouts. Now we have multiple. We need to bag up our dirty stuff, and we need to have decontamination stations on the scene.”
Bagala and Jamotte echo McHugh, saying that establishing decontamination protocols and, most importantly, regular health screenings to diagnose early, before cancer spreads, are the immediate actions Marin County fire agencies can take. “There are hundreds of things to do, but occupational testing will save lives and careers. Testing for these cancers — colon, esophageal, breast, prostate, brain, thyroid — so we catch them early. It is a lot cheaper to do the tests now than to treat our people later,” says Bagala.
Regular testing will cost an estimated
$2500 per firefighter, says Jamotte. He believes that Marin County taxpayers want to know that the people they rely on in residential fires and wildfires, who deliver babies, rescue them from waves and save them from heart attacks, among other emergencies, are taken care of and are healthy. So the key is that fire chiefs allocate the funds for these measures. “A budget is a moral document,” Jamotte adds. “We can spend a fraction of our budget so that every year our firefighters get a clean bill of health. If we catch one case of cancer at stage one, instead of stage four, which was what Rick’s diagnosis was, it is worth every penny because we saved a firefighter, and we saved a human being.”
Best friends McHugh and Addicks on vacation together
Kashima. Michel Ducaroy Made in France
A WINE COUNTRY RETREAT IN SONOMA, A NATURAL YET MODERN SAN ANSELMO RENOVATION AND AN INTERVIEW WITH BARBARA CHAMBERS.
JEFF
New and vintage finds embellish a Marin family’s second home in Sonoma.
SONOMA SANCTUARY
A WINE COUNTRY RETREAT FOR A MARIN FAMILY MERGES MODERN ARCHITECTURE WITH A WARM, ORGANIC DESIGN AESTHETIC.
BY LOTUS ABRAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEFF ZARUBA
BRETT AND PATTI MCGOVERN HAVE CALLED LARKSPUR HOME SINCE 2002, and even built a Craftsman-style house there in 2018, where they currently live with their three teenage daughters and two dogs. Still, they longed for a weekend retreat to host their large, locally based extended family and many friends. “Between the two of us, Brett has two brothers, and I have one sister,” Patti says. “There are 10 cousins, and we spend a lot of time together, and that’s before friends. We wanted a big space to get together.”
After joining the Sonoma Golf Club
in 2015, the McGoverns were sold on Sonoma, but they put their second home hopes on hold for a time following completion of the Larkspur house. When a property in Sonoma caught their attention in 2021, however, it was just too tempting to pass up.
The three-acre property included architectural plans for a house designed by Kentfield firm Holder Parlette and, serendipitously, it was located across the street from the home of their Larkspur house builder, Mike Boufford of Fairway Design and Construction, who helped them make the purchase. Best of all, the
property is close to Sonoma’s many amenities, yet surrounded by nature and only a 40-minute drive from the McGoverns’ primary residence.
“We love the privacy and beauty of the property — the native grasses, oak trees and sense of expansive space,” Brett says. “Plus, it’s located only about 500 yards from Sonoma Golf Club!”
The McGoverns were hesitant to embark on another new build, and the contemporary, gabled-roof home design was much more modern than their Larkspur house, but the developer had nearly completed the permitting process,
The home features a gabledroof design and dark-stained cedar siding.
Glass pocket doors in the great room open to the pool deck.
which would save considerable time over starting from scratch. The home promised to offer plenty of space for entertaining, too: 4,000 square feet, including four bedrooms and five bathrooms, laid out in an “H” shape with the wings of the house forming small courtyards around the existing oak trees on the site. Sealing the deal, the plans also included a onebedroom, one-bath ADU for overnight guests; a pool; and pool house.
“We sought to achieve a strong indooroutdoor connection, as with all of our projects, carefully siting the house with views of the oak trees and mountains to
the northwest,” says Chris Parlette, principal architect at Holder Parlette. “The main challenge was trying to retain as many oak trees as we could. That really drove the shape and layout of the house.”
Ready to begin building, the McGoverns reassembled the dream team from their Larkspur house project: Fairway Design and Construction and San Francisco-based interior designer Julie Baker, who would be instrumental in ensuring the new home reflected their personal aesthetic. “We liked the architectural plans, but we wanted to put our own touches on the finishes, color, living areas
and surrounding landscape,” Brett says. “Julie was referred to us by our Larkspur home builder, and we had a great experience with her. It was a no-brainer to get her involved in this new project, too.”
Baker provided guidance on all aesthetic aspects of the project, including the selection of interior and exterior materials, finishes, color palette, furniture and even landscape plants. “Overall, they didn’t want anything to feel too ‘new,’” Baker says. “They were interested in using materials that would show age over time.”
To that end, the floors in the main house are concrete, “which always
An en suite bathroom features a steam shower, waterproof plaster walls and Neolith counter tops.
eventually cracks and is more of a living finish,” Baker says. Likewise, the dark-stained cedar siding on the home’s exterior is intended to fade with exposure to the intense Sonoma sun. Softening the interior spaces, walls are finished in plaster, the artful work of decorative painter James Derieg; custom cabinetry designed by Baker and built by Classic Mill & Cabinet in Cloverdale is crafted from two shades of Shinnoki veneers; and many vintage furnishings complement new pieces.
In addition, the McGoverns wanted to ensure that guests feel comfortable in the home, so Baker prioritized functionality
over formality when it came to making material and furnishing choices. “We didn’t want anything to be off limits for the kids and animals,” Patti says. “This is a home for our family and friends, and I don’t want to own things anyone has to worry about ruining.”
The resulting aesthetic achieves the ideal balance between “new” and “nature” that the McGoverns were seeking — clean, geometric architectural forms overlayed with organic textures and hues. “Although we would never have originally designed a house in this style, now we can’t imagine any other house on the property — it fits perfectly,” Patti says.
The heart of the home is the great room, encompassing the kitchen, dining and living room spaces under a vaulted ceiling clad in European oak planks. A glass entryway faces a large expanse of glass pocket doors across the room that opens to the pool deck, landscaped by Totem Landscape Services.
In the kitchen, plaster sheaths the hood above the cooktop and surrounding wall, extending vertically toward the ceiling, while Neolith sintered stone in two different patterns forms the countertops, backsplash and an entire wall above the sink. Two niches flank the hood, providing decorative storage space with
The replace surround in the great room is nished in plaster, while the ceiling is clad in European oak planks.
dimmable LED lights. A pantry with a speed oven, dishwasher and sink is accessible behind the wall via two sets of pocket doors. Adjacent to the kitchen, the dining table seats 12 — perfect for large gettogethers. “What I love about this space is how the materials are radically different from each other but so feel good together, like how the oversized glass light fixtures play against the linear wood light fixture above the island,” Baker says.
On the other side of the great room, the fireplace mirrors the kitchen hood, faced in a contrasting darker shade of plaster. A custom wine chiller and bar, backed with metallic tile, is located on the wall opposite the pool.
Each of the bedrooms in the main house has its own en suite bathroom. Baker designed built-in storage cabinets in each bedroom and sourced much of the bedding and decorative pieces for the rooms from Amber Interiors. The primary suite offers views and access to a private garden space, while the girls’ bedroom features a twin-over-full-sized bunk bed with built-in niches for charging devices and artwork from Big Daddy's Antiques in Los Angeles.
Adjacent to the pool deck, the pool house is outfitted for outdoor entertaining. Open on both sides, it encompasses a bathroom, seating area, sink, dishwasher, refrigerator, freezer and 85-inch TV, while a trellis shades an outdoor dining table and three different grills: a traditional gas grill, a Santa Maria-style grill and Big Green Egg charcoal grill. Behind the pool house, the firepit area is the McGoverns’ favorite place to sip morning coffee under the oaks — one of the many activities the family enjoys when spending time at their Sonoma home.
“We love everything about the property and try to make it up most weekends,” Brett says. “It’s so easy to get to from Larkspur, yet it feels like you’re on vacation even though you’re so close to home.”
Native oaks shade the fiepit area behind the pool house.
A hood sheathed in plaster, Neolith sintered stone counter tops and decorative storage niches embellish the kitchen.
A Grand Plan
DARK AND LIGHT HUES CONVERGE WITH NATURAL ELEMENTS IN A 7,300-SQUARE-FOOT SAN ANSELMO HOME.
BY LOTUS ABRAMS
PHOTOGRAPHY
JOSE MANUEL ALORDA
HOME RENOVATIONS ARE NEVER “EASY,” typically requiring months of planning and permitting, coordination between multiple subcontractors and vendors, and countless decisions to be made on everything from finishes to fixtures to furnishings. Kirsten Pike, principal at her namesake Larkspur-based interior design firm, is no stranger to navigating this complex process. However, remodeling a home in San Anselmo for a family of five was by no means a typical project.
First, there was the sheer size of this particular home to take into consideration: 7,300 square feet, with five bedrooms and five and a half baths, and ceiling heights that reach up to 20 feet in some rooms. There are also numerous outdoor spaces on the large property, which includes a swimming pool, tennis and pickleball court, sizable courtyard and pool house. Since the cost of a total renovation for a house of this size would have been prohibitively expensive, Pike was tasked with pulling off a transformation without changing the flooring, windows and staircase, and without fully remodeling the kitchen.
Then, there was the fact that the home is a Santa Barbara-style Spanish colonial,
Clockwise, from left: A David Trubridge pendant light hangs above the door; the family room features an RH sectional, Malgorzata Bany low tables and a Moooi chandelier; a 16-foot wood sculpture from Fez in Mill Valley brings a natural element into the foyer.
yet the homeowners prefer contemporary interior design. Perhaps most challenging of all, Pike’s clients have markedly different aesthetics: He favors sleek, polished, modern design and darker shades, while she prefers lighter hues, organic shapes and natural materials. “They truly had different ideas about what they wanted,” Pike says. “I really had to think about how to design a home where they would both be happy.”
Feeling inspired to find creative solutions to these challenges, Pike got to work with a team that included contractor San Rafael-based FL Construction.
“It was a massive undertaking,” Pike says. “The clients didn’t bring anything from their previous residence, so we sourced, purchased and had delivered all the furnishings, accessories, sculptures and decorative pieces in every room, down to the bedding, towels, trash bins and
toothbrush holders.” In addition, Pike procured dozens of furnishings to outfit the many outdoor spaces and hundreds of light fixtures, along with replacing all the recessed lighting in the home. She also designed many custom art, textile and furniture pieces for the project.
In every space, Pike endeavored to celebrate the homeowners’ divergent preferences rather than resist them, finding common ground — their mutual appreciation for spending time outdoors — to tie everything together. “There’s a constant play of light and dark all through the house, and I brought in a lot of nature,” she says. In addition, Pike gravitated toward texture rather than color to add interest in each space, and she incorporated large-format art pieces and furnishings to match the grand scale of the rooms.
The living room is the setting for the home’s largest piece of artwork, a 14-by10-foot aerial photograph of Paradise Fall in Kauai by Jin-Woo Prensena that provides a lush backdrop for the carefully curated mix of furnishings and artwork in contrasting light and dark hues. Pike designed many of the elements in the room herself, including the rug woven by Roja Rugs in Mill Valley, several sculptures conceived in collaboration with artist Michael Rofka, and the fireplace surround fabricated by Petaluma’s Turner & Taylor Metal Works. “I spent the entire day working with the metalsmiths to get the fireplace finish right,” Pike says.
At nearly 2,000 square feet, the family room is the largest space in the house, which Pike outfitted with a 16-foot RH sectional, two sculptural Malgorzata Bany low tables, and a Moooi chandelier that
is over 6 feet in diameter and resembles a blossoming crown. On the other side of the room, a grand piano is flanked by 10-foot-tall bison and American Indian artwork by David Frederick Riley. A three-dimensional piece by San Franciscobased multimedia artist Jenny Phillips embellishes the family room wall at the entrance to the kitchen.
To elevate the kitchen without completely remodeling it, Pike installed a new red oak island, now the centerpiece of the room. With its visible grain and deep, rich stain, it makes a dramatic statement set against the existing cabinetry, repainted in soft, creamy white shades. Hammered stainless-steel farmhouse sinks add textural interest to the space, and 38-inch LZF pendants hanging above the island reflect both the husband’s and the wife’s aesthetics. “When you look up into the light’s black metal frame, you see a beautiful laser-cut wood design,” Pike explains.
In the dining room, Pike painted a custom mural — a talent she’s brought to many of her interior design projects. The
graphic composition of intersecting lines with rounded edges is echoed in the softly curved shapes of the furniture, lighting and artwork in the space, including the Paolo Cattelan marble table, Minotti chairs and Aqua Creations silk pendant light.
Nature inspired many of the elements seen in the primary suite, from the wallcovering in the bedroom — an abstract forest design from The House of Scalamandré — to the organic shapes of the freestanding tub and stool in the bathroom. Likewise, the foyer features a 13-foot diameter black-and-gray Roche Bobois rug that looks like a cross-section of a tree trunk, a 16-foot natural wood sculpture from Fez in Mill Valley, and a David Trubridge pendant light made from pale and delicate birch plywood. Meanwhile, dark hues feature prominently in the media room and the husband’s office. Formerly a den, the media room is framed by dark blue wood cladding designed by Pike and remotecontrol blackout shades that are playfully
embellished with film strips, while the husband’s office features a charcoal gray color scheme.
In the end, the home’s design is a study in contrasts: dark and light, organic and modern, eclectic and sophisticated — an aesthetic that also manages to complement the home’s Spanish colonial architecture. “I design every home as if there are no walls, so if you took out all the walls, everything would flow together,” Pike says. “It was a wonderful challenge to create this home, and I think we succeeded.”
Clockwise, from above: A grand piano and large-format artwork by David Frederick Riley embellish the family room; Kirsten Pike designed the custom mural in the dining room; abstract forest wallpaper by The House of Scalamandré provides a soothing backdrop in the primary bedroom.
CLASSICAL CONNECTION
MILL VALLEY ARCHITECT BARBARA CHAMBERS HAS SPENT NEARLY THREE DECADES PERFECTING HER BRAND OF CONTEMPORARY TRADITIONAL ARCHITECTURE.
BY LOTUS ABRAMS
For nearly 30 years, Mill Valley-based Chambers + Chambers Architects has been imparting homes in Marin and beyond with its signature brand of design that merges classical elegance with understated, contemporary luxury. Founder and principal architect Barbara Chambers can’t remember a time when she didn’t want to be an architect, and her dedication to the craft has earned her firm not only a devoted clientele, but also the 2018 Julia Morgan Awards for Excellence in The Classical Tradition for Architecture. Here, Chambers shares how Chambers + Chambers got its start and continues to thrive in the world of architecture and design.
Marin Magazine
(MM): What drew you to the field of architecture?
Barbara Chambers
(BC): From as far back as I can remember, I wanted to be an architect. As a young child of 5 years old, I enjoyed drawing and building toy houses. As I grew a little older, I recall marveling at beautiful homes that we would drive by on our family’s Sunday excursions after church. I wondered why, what and who made these houses
so beautiful. At that point, I knew where my passion would lead me: design and architecture.
MM: What brought you to San Francisco?
BC: I completed my undergraduate work in fine arts — focusing on painting and interior design, as they did not offer an architectural program at the university I attended. Later, I earned my master of architecture degree. During my graduate studies, I came to San Francisco for
an intensive summer program in classical architecture. I fell in love with San Francisco and the Bay Area, and I knew this is where I would start my career, even though my extended family was, and still resides, in Colorado.
Upon graduating, I took what little money I had saved while working multiple jobs, got on a plane and arrived in San Francisco. Thinking back, I realize it was more than a little crazy. I didn’t know anyone, nor had I figured out how I would support myself since I had no work experience. I just trusted everything would work out. My father was convinced I would be home within a few months. At the same time, he supported my passion and drive to be who I wanted to be. Everything did work out, and my passion for architecture and design was realized — something I dreamed about since I was very young.
MM: How did Chambers + Chambers Architects come to be?
BC: I knew I wanted to have my own practice, and although I had no idea how to run an office, I trusted I could figure it out along the way. My accountant who set up the business told me Chambers + Chambers Architects sounded better than Barbara Chambers Architecture, so I named my firm after my two young boys, who were 2 and 4 at the time.
MM: How do you define your signature architectural style?
BC: Contemporary traditional architecture, influenced by classical architecture, forms the foundation of all of my work, yet I strive to make it fit the modern needs of the clients I work for. I want to create a sense of elegance and peacefulness, along with a sense of place, in each home, one that isn’t
BARBARA
trendy and lasts over time.
MM: How does that translate in the projects you do?
BC: Every project I do for my clients reflects the same principles of traditional or classical architecture. Symmetry; scale; rich materials; and elegant, classical proportions, details and moldings have become integral to the custom casework we design for each home, as well as the layering or symmetry of spaces through the house.
The same principles apply to a renovated home versus a new home; it’s just a different program, a unique puzzle to put together. Our brand is immediately recognizable whether it’s a renovation or a new build — at least that’s what everyone tells me.
For interiors, we tend to use a varied but identifiable color palette and classical materials, textures, and patterns that work with the traditional architectural vocabulary. I’ve either developed or vetted these materials over many years.
MM: What do you love most about your work?
BC: Each new project I start becomes my favorite. I still wake up every day and absolutely love going to work. I have so much passion for architecture. I’ve been blessed to have incredible clients who
trust what we do. I’m fortunate to realize what a wonderful career I’ve had and continue to thrive in!
MM: Whose work inspires you?
BC: Oh my gosh — there are so many talented architects and designers, both current and from the past, whose work I admire. A few current designers and architects whose work I appreciate are Gil Schafer III, Ken Tate, Bobby McAlpine, Robert Stern, Patrick Ahearn, Suzanne Kasler, Michael Smith, Victoria Hagan, Steven Gambrel and Alexandra Misczynski.
MM: What’s changed most about residential architecture since the early days at Chambers + Chambers?
BC: Clients today want less formal family houses that they can also entertain casually in — places that are elegant and classical yet also functional.
MM: Is it challenging to be a female architect in an industry that is still dominated by men?
BC: I remember early in my career, not long after I opened my doors in Marin, I hired a well-respected male business coach in the area to help me realize my dream. He told me that he didn’t think that I would be successful as a boutique women-owned architectural business, and that I needed to consider teaming up
with a male partner. Well, that was our last meeting, and I walked him out the front door. However, the experience made me more determined to be a successful woman-owned business in a male-dominated field!
MM: What advice would you share with up-and-coming female architects?
BC: Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t. My father always told me to love what I do and to work hard — the rest will come! He was right. He was my biggest fan and always encouraged me to follow my passion, trust my heart and not listen to anyone else. Don’t give up. You’ll make mistakes along the way and realize one day that those challenges build character and are sometimes the best life lessons.
MM: What are your plans for the future?
BC: My talented son Kyle Chambers recently joined my practice. He’s just as passionate and driven as I was at his age. Chambers + Chambers will carry on over the next decade and beyond! I continue to love my work. I’ll always be involved, providing strong mentorship for my amazing staff who all have been with me for an extended period. I attribute my success to my wonderful team. I couldn’t do it without them.
WHITE AFTER LABOR DAY
BRIGHTEN UP YOUR SPACE WITH AN ACCENT PIECE. OR, MAKE A BOLD STATEMENT WITH A MONOCHROMATIC STYLE. THIS LIGHTEST OF NEUTRALS IS ALWAYS IN SEASON.
BY LISA BOQUIREN
SEA ANEMONE 27 BY PIA
MARIA RAEDER
From the artist's Sea Anemone series — inspired by her unique vision of nature — this sculptural piece features 21,000 rods made of white lacquered beech wood, and mirror glass. Made in Germany. Price upon request, galeriebsl.com, toddmerrillstudio.com
GARRISON PENDANT
Subtle elegance characterizes this light fixture, which features a tapered linen shade with aged brass finish. Retails for $549 at arhaus.com
MELLOW GRANDE SLIPCOVERED SOFA BY LEANNE FORD FOR CRATE & BARREL
Inspired by the designer's puffer jackets, this sofa is comfy and family friendly. The frame is made from FSC-certified engineered hardwood from responsibly managed forests. The seat and back cushions are
CHIARO STOOL BY LEON RANSMEIER FOR MATTIAZZI
Designed to be visually and physically at home in different environments, this stool is made from ash wood of European origin and sourced through legal wood cutting (shown in white finish), and features a brushed metal footrest. Made in Northern Italy at the solar-powered, zero-waste and FSC-certified Mattiazzi factory. Retails for $1,288 at prevalentprojects.com
TABLE BY JAMES DE WULF
This rock-solid and stable table's floral top has just five points which lock into the base with gravity. Designed in Maui, and made with concrete poured and finished in El Salvador, the complicated forms are all constructed in Los Angeles. Retails for $28,000 at jamesdewulf.com
GREENGUARD Gold Certified as a low-emission product. Available in a variety of fabrics and colors. Retails for $549 to $799 at westelm.com
WAX, STONE, LIGHT PENDANT LAMP BY LINDE FREYA TANGELDER
From the Cassina Lighting Collection, this sculptural block is made of Murano glass blown inside cast-iron molds. The handworked wax surface gives each piece a distinctive appearance. Made in Italy. Starts at $2,405. Store locator at cassina.com
Luca Merli
ONDA WHITEWASHED OAK WOOD SIDE TABLE
Named after the Spanish word for wave, this furniture piece features sculptural curves. Made in Indonesia from FSC-certified ash veneer, mahogany and engineered wood from responsibly managed forests. crateandbarrel.com
Photo:
BLUEBERRY
Marin Magazine’s Ultimate Guide to the 47th Mill Valley Film Festival
The festival kicks off with an xciting schedule of in-person theater screenings and events, as well as virtual offerings. Get the inside scoop her.
Moviegoing in Marin Alive and Well
BY DAEDALUS HOWELL
Movies are going through an identity crisis. Films that stream natively on services like Netflix, Hulu and Paramount+ are fundamentally just a digital rehash of the made-for-TV concept that thrived from the 1960s to the 1990s. Likewise, limited series owe a genetic debt to the televised miniseries of yore. So, what makes a movie a movie? The easy answer is “movie theaters” — the Big Screen — which have been in a dance macabre with smaller screens since the advent of TV.
However, several Marin movie theaters are striving to keep theatrical exhibition (to use the term of art), a meaningful part of audiences’ lives. With eight operating theaters and dozens of screens shared between them, it would seem that “going to the movies” was faring fine. Plot twist — it’s more complicated than it might first appear.
“So many movie theaters have gone out of business, or are in a dying mall,” says Ellie Mednick, executive director of the Lark Theater, downtown Larkspur’s nonprofit Art Deco gem. The theater reopened after years of being shuttered in 2004 thanks to grassroots efforts to head off developers. 20 years hence, the Lark has “dedicated itself to a wonderfully engaging experience from the minute a customer walks in the door,” says Mednick, who took the helm in 2012.
“I could see it was a losing proposition, and we needed to make major changes,” recalls Mednick, who revitalized the nonprofit’s board and hired staff versed in community relations and fundraising. “We remained an art cinema but hired a more sophisticated film programmer from
New York with access to better films, and began screening six to eight different films a week, running in repertory fashion, daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day of the week — including 9 a.m. bargain matinees with free coffee!”
A pivot to showing second-run movies with less expensive license fees also helped the bottom line. But that’s not all. The screen sees a lot of action from The Met: Live in HD broadcasts from New York, National Theatre Live plays live from London, art-on-film series like Exhibition on Screen, not to mention live streaming events from SFJAZZ in San Francisco. The Lark is not alone in leveraging these kinds of offerings. These programs benefit theaters, with higher ticket costs than movies command (“our ‘bread and
butter,’” says Mednick), but they aren’t movies. Nor are the live standup comedy, music and nightclub acts that dot the Lark’s calendar. Though much of it is complemented by documentary films that share a thematic element, the fact is that this programming is necessary to supplement the movie side of the business at least partially.
“As a nonprofit, fundraising through a variety of activities is vital for a nonprofit theater of any kind. Before COVID, our budget operated on 75% box office and concessions and 25% donations and memberships,” says Mednick. “Now, it is more like 50/50.”
Main Event
Also experimenting with “eventizing” the theatrical experience is Camilla Jackson Meoli, a filmmaker and creative director at Cinelounge Tiburon, which rose from the ashes of its predecessor, the Tiburon Playhouse.
“Our events and screenings have been gaining momentum, particularly because we offer a variety that appeals to different interests,” says Meoli. “Initially, we were fish out of water, having come from a background of catering to a completely different audience.” Having found its footing, Cinelounge Tiburon caters to five distinct groups: fans of new releases, classic film lovers, community members interested in talkbacks, youth and education audiences and live sports enthusiasts for whom the big screen complements the broadcast experience.
Meoli and her team continue to iterate on the exhibition concept, however. “It’s an ongoing experiment to see what
The Lark Theater
resonates most with our audience, and we’re constantly learning what works and what doesn’t,” she says. “Through these efforts, we’re not just screening films; we’re striving to enhance the community’s perception of the value we bring. We hope to broaden their understanding of what a movie theater can be — a space for entertainment, engagement and community connection.”
She says one key difference is the strong emphasis on family and community in Marin County. “The audience here values connections and a sense of belonging, so when we engage with these aspects, it really makes an impact,” says Meoli of Cinelounge, which has a sibling venture on Los Angeles’ famed Sunset Boulevard. “In Los Angeles, our focus was predominantly on catering to the film industry. Now, in Marin, our ‘industry’ is the community itself.”
Cause and FX
There are a few factors behind the scenes that have not helped the cause of theatrical exhibition, which was already beginning to diminish thanks to shifting media consumption patterns (looking at you, Netflix). COVID certainly didn’t help, ditto to the subsequent actors’ and writers’ strikes, which created an enduring kink in the product pipeline. More to the point, the kind of product available to theaters has shifted toward effects-driven spectacles based on existing intellectual
properties typically anathema to adult, art-house audiences.
“Movie-making in America suffers from poor financing, strikes, etc., and big money goes into the big budget ‘scream movies’ or for the Chinese market,” observes Mednick. “The movies today that fit our mission are mostly low-budget, with no star power or director power. Some are very good, but the majority no one has heard of as there is no advance publicity from the moviemakers or major media.”
Rex Pickett, the author of the novel Sideways, famously adapted into the hit movie of the same title, concurs. “I don’t
think Sideways would get greenlit today. I think it’s too unique and original.
Theatrical is all, you know, Deadpool & Wolverine, and sequels — it’s cannibalization of intellectual property,” says Pickett, who recently appeared at the Smith Rafael Film Center last August to host a 20thanniversary screening of Sideways, which included a side-by-side tasting of — you guessed it — pinot noir and merlot.
The value-add of having one of the film’s creators present at special screenings has been a boon to the Rafael, which, like the Lark and Cinelounge, has leaned into more event-style programming. But it’s difficult to eventize movies when
Rafael Theater
Camilla Jackson Meoli
there aren’t any of the caliber preferred by local audiences. “The future of movie houses will depend on the film industry’s interest and financing of good films, and perhaps more access to foreign films,” says Mednick. “Most money seems to go to Netflix, Prime, etc.”
In the meantime, Mednick has found that audiences are content to wait for the films they wish to see to come to the big screen, eschewing the relative comforts of home viewing for an experience that can only be had alone in the dark with a bunch of strangers. “Those who ‘Love the Lark’ wait to experience that magic that happens when the lights go down and the story begins. The couch experience at
home is fine, but where is the aroma of the best popcorn in town? Or those great hot dogs and old fashioned milkshakes,” shes says, adding, “plus that friendliness that emanates from our many warm volunteers who make coming alone or with friends just so much more welcoming.”
Despite the myriad challenges, moviegoing still remains viable in Marin. Amidst recent closures of theaters including the Regency 6 on Smith Ranch Road, which shuttered in November of 2023, there have been some bright spots. California Film Center revitalized and reopened Mill Valley’s Sequoia Twin as the Sequoia Cinema, which it celebrated with a week of $1 classic movies last May.
“When we do really great, unique programming, especially if there’s a local filmmaker or a local community partnership involved, people support it,” general manager Dan Zastrow told KQED at the time.
Likewise, the Larkspur Landing Cinema was similarly resurrected by CinemaWest, the Petaluma-based exhibition company that also owns the Fairfax 6 theater in Fairfax.
There is hope. And there is popcorn. As Mednick suggests, “We must watch trends to see what people find attractive enough to get off their couches and make their way to a venue that makes them feel comfortable, well-fed and welcomed.”
Lark Theater
Your Guides to the Guide
BY BERNARD BOO
“The reason you head out to see a film at the theater is the same reason you head out to a live concert instead of just streaming your music at home: community.”
For MVFF Founder and Executive Director Mark Fishkin, the festival is all about people gathering to watch fabulous films in the theater, and the community’s collective enthusiasm for theatergoing seems to be on the rise.
“Over the past few years, we’ve seen a huge increase in attendance at MVFF and at the Smith Rafael,” Fishkin says with a smile. “This is what the festival is all about. Folks came out in great numbers last year, and this year’s festival should be even bigger.”
Approaching a film festival like MVFF which features a sprawling lineup of films from a variety of genres and countries of
MARK’S PICKS
Good Men dir. Bobby Roth
origin can be overwhelming, to say the least. To help guide you through the sea of films on offer, Fishkin and MVFF Director of Programming Zoë Elton have each chosen five extraordinary films they believe should not be missed.
“At the festival, we’re bringing to the
A series of investigative interviews with men and women about what it means to be a “good man” in today’s society.
“This lm is moving and complex because it talks about the in uences of family. Some subjects hated their fathers or partners but learned what not to do through them.”
Mistura dir. Ricardo de Montreuil
In 1960s Peru, a woman is cast out from high society and reconnects with her community through the power of food.
“It’s a story about love, class and change. It’s beautifully made, and I think everyone will enjoy it.”
forefront a lot of filmmakers who are not necessarily household names but are doing truly amazing work,” says Elton. “Giving these films the spotlight is important to us, and we hope they move you like they moved us.”
ZOË’S PICKS
The Seed of the Sacred Fig dir. Mohammad Rasoulof In Tehran, lawyer Iman begins to suspect his wife and daughters of stealing his gun amid a maelstrom of societal and political unrest.
“In the rst moments of watching this lm, you get a sense of who director Mohammad Rasoulof is and the world he’s representing. As the lm unfolds, you see the root truth of what he’s exploring.”
Eastern Western dir. Biliana Grozdanova, Marina Grozdanova Widower and immigrant Igor struggles to raise his two-year-old son in the American West.
“This one is directed by sisters Biliana and Marina Grozdanova. I just want to point out how audacious it is for any independent lmmaker to be making a historical narrative.”
MARK’S PICKS CONTINUED
Anora dir. Sean Baker
A sex worker from Brooklyn elopes with the son of a Russian oligarch, and their marriage is threatened when his parents make their way to the States to force an annulment.
“This lm won the Palme d’Or, and it’s from the great Sean Baker, who brought us Red Rocket and The Florida Project and seems to nally be receiving the acclaim he deserves.”
Pimpinero: Blood and Oil dir. Andrés Baiz
Gasoline smugglers, or “pimpineros,” struggle to survive as they transport their goods across the Colombia-Venezuela border.
“It’s a genre lm, it’s violent, and it can be tough to watch. But at its core, it’s about real people living under extreme conditions.”
Better Man dir. Michael Gracey
British pop icon Robbie Williams plays himself in this biographical musical directed by Michael Gracey (The Greatest Showman).
“This one is a studio lm, you’re in for some surprises whether you’re familiar with Robbie Williams or not.”
PICKS CONTINUED
The Black Sea dir. Crystal Moselle, Derrick B. Harden
A Black man journeys to a small Bulgarian town where he struggles to nd work. Based on a true story.
“I believe the lm has been created partly via improvisation, which adds a lot. It’s by Derrick B. Harden and Crystal Moselle, who went to Tam High!”
The Book of Jobs dir. Kayci Lacob
A semi-autobiographical story about a young female writer (Victoria Pedretti) from Silicon Valley who grows up in the shadow of Steve Jobs’s legacy.
“It’s a relatable hook for anyone who’s lived in the Bay Area and the world of Apple. There is a new generation of role models that has risen out of the tech industry, and the lm explores what that means for our society.”
My Dead Friend Zoe dir. Kyle Hausmann-Stokes
An Afghanistan vet (Sonequa Martin-Green) grapples with her family’s past, as well as her mysterious relationship with her dead friend from the Army.
“It looks at the depth of the friendships made in the military. It’s also fascinating that director Kyle Hausmann-Stokes chose to tell a personal story through female characters.”
Be the Change
BY BERNARD BOO
Films have the power to change the world… but they need our help. MVFF’s Active Cinema program is a curated selection of six extraordinary documentaries tackling some of the most timely issues impacting our world. But Active Cinema isn’t just about watching great films. “Documentaries are a reflection of society,” says Active Cinema Manager Maribel Guevara. “They inform us, inspire us and create change.”
If animal activism is near and dear to your heart, Active Cinema has got you covered. American Cats: The Good, The Bad and the Cuddly satirically sheds light on the cruel practice of rich people protecting their fancy furniture by declawing their cats. In Mollie’s Pack, the stories of the people who helped wolves return to Yellowstone 50 years after their
¡Viva el Cine!
extirpation are interwoven via extraordinary 16mm footage that was once thought to be lost. On the sociopolitical front, Homegrown presents a fascinating inside look into the lives of some of the players involved in the traumatic events of the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. Borderland: The Line Within examines the dark reality that inhumane practices like separating families at the U.S. border fuel an enormous, infernal profit machine.
Women’s empowerment takes center stage in Into the Heart of the Mountain, which follows Buddhist activist Joan Halifax as she promotes gender equality through medicine in the Himalayas. And in Zurawski v Texas, Amanda Zurawski, who
BY BERNARD BOO
Spanish-language film isn’t exactly a staple at the multiplex, but MVFF’s ¡Viva el Cine! program is an opportunity to experience a universe of Latin American and Latinx cinema from across the globe.
“We try to curate the finest international films to create a space where history, culture and identity come alive through cinema,” says ¡Viva el Cine! Senior Programmer João Federici. “The mission is to cultivate appreciation for these films so that they can unite, inform and inspire our community.”
From the true story of a teenage boxer from New Jersey facing the fight of her life: brain cancer ( JessZilla), to the
tale of two sisters from Peru reuniting with their estranged father and healing old wounds (Reinas), to a boundary-pushing crimecomedy about a disgruntled lawyer helping a notorious Mexican drug cartel leader affirm her gender (Emilia Pérez), the films that make up ¡Viva el Cine! are as diverse as they are entertaining.
spoke at this year’s Democratic National Convention, fights for the reproductive rights of women across the country. Each screening will be followed by a discussion featuring special guests from the films, and the audience will be given tips on how they can get involved and become part of the solution. “Watching a film in a theater is a wonderful experience,” Guevara says. “But when on top of that you get educated and inspired, it’s doubly amazing.”
This year’s program includes 10 features and three shorts representing 10 countries. “It’s a global perspective, a lens into different cultures fostering a
broader understanding of the world and its stories,” Federici says. While ¡Viva el Cine!’s films can cover serious subject matter, what matters most to Federici is that audiences have a great time at the movies. “Seeing people enjoy the films is the best thing! That’s my reward.”
Homegrown
Reinas (Queens)
SUNDAY OCT 6
MONDAY OCT 7
TUESDAY OCT 8
WEDNESDAY OCT 9
THURSDAY OCT 10
FRIDAY OCT 11
TRAVEL
Tastings, spa treatments, hiking, stargazing and ne dining
Wine Country Beckons
BY MIMI TOWLE
Plush Crush
October is possibly the best time to visit Sonoma and Napa, and if you’re looking for a luxe experience for the day, or overnight, here are a few ideas for your next getaway.
Splurge:
Make it easy on yourself by signing up for a day of wine tasting and nibbles — here are a few options that won’t disappoint.
Domaine Carneros, Plats des Perles Carneros
New this month, enjoy oysters and bubbles at Domaine Carneros’ beautiful French chateau with iconic views of Napa Valley. The experience begins with guests descending a secluded staircase into the swanky Art Deco-inspired lounge called "Salon des Reves." Emerging into this moody green and gold themed space, a welcome splash of bubbles will set the tone for an elegant pairing of three sparkling wines and oysters. Customize and enhance your tasting with imported Tsar Nicoulai caviar and fresh ceviche, or additional oysters. domainecarneros.com
Jordan Vineyard & Winery, Estate Tour & Tasting
Alexander Valley
A four-hour journey that includes hikes through the 1,200-acre estate, stopping for tastings of their award-winning wines paired with seasonal delicacies, starting with bites and chardonnay under the olive trees, followed by cabernet sauvignon paired with artisan cheeses or local beef. The experience concludes with a relaxed sitdown tasting in the Jordan dining room, where the chef creates dishes inspired by the estate’s wines. jordanwinery.com
St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, Wine & Food Pairing Sonoma Valley
Set in the heart of Sonoma Valley, this award-winning, five-course tasting menu is designed to complement the estate’s wines, with sustainably farmed pairings like pan-seared duck breast for their zinfandel or a crisp sauvignon blanc served alongside a delicate scallop ceviche. Also, in honor of St. Francis — patron saint of animals — dogs are welcome. stfranciswinery.com
After Dark
Spa Night at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn
Sonoma
For a bucket list, lifetime memory, you and a handful of your closest friends can rent out the entire spa, including the bathhouse bathing ritual and geothermal mineral baths at Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn. Toast the evening with caviar and a bottle of Sonoma sparkling wine and allow your private concierge to help curate an evening you won’t forget. fairmont-sonoma.com
Private Stargazing and Wine Tasting at Robert
Ferguson Observatory
Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, Sonoma
After dark, guests are treated to an exclusive sunset hike or vineyard walk, and then a guided tour of the stars through highpowered telescopes, all while enjoying a private tasting of local wines from nearby wineries like St. Francis or Ledson. rfo.org
Ram’s Gate Winery, Full Moon Vineyard Dinner
Sonoma
A seasonal event that takes place on nights when the moon illuminates the rolling hills of the estate’s vineyards. Guests are invited to savor a multi-course meal under the moonlight, paired with Ram’s Gate’s limited-production wines. ramsgatewinery.com
BY JEANNE COOPER
Native Speakers
Indigenous travel experiences include compelling stories in spectacular settings.
The Pacific Ocean may be vast, but for the Indigenous peoples of its islands and shores, the water connects rather than separates them — as does the painful legacy of colonialism. But thanks to a rising wave of Indigenous travel providers, visitors can learn about beautiful homelands and history’s ugly truths alike, while taking inspiration from those preserving their cultures today.
BRITISH COLUMBIA
“Cedar takes away your stress. If you’re ever having a bad day, just rub against it,” advises Janet Wilson, my guide on Homalco Wildlife and Cultural Tours’ half-day excursion from Campbell River on Vancouver Island’s west coast. In between ogling humpback whales and bald eagles, we’ve landed on Aupe, a small, hilly island where Wilson’s Homalco people experienced decades of bad days before the last residents left in the 1980s.
Forced off their land and into Western ways by Catholic priests who arrived in the late 1860s, the Homalco were resettled twice, first to a site subject to the brutal “wolf wind” in winter and then across the inlet to Aupe. There, government agents started seizing children ages 5 and older to send to residential schools, “and not everyone came back,” Wilson says.
Those who did often bore the scars of physical, emotional and spiritual abuse, she adds, while an on-island school run by nuns and priests further proved “a nightmare.” Noting the current injustice in the number of missing Native women, Wilson sings a song in their honor while beating a precious elk skin drum.
But at least the island has become a place of renewal: The dilapidated school will soon be replaced by a wellness and addiction recovery center. Wilson and her cousin Ronny, the captain of our boat, have already created trails where she finds salmonberries and blueberry-like salal for us to sample, and points out the Homalco
version of Halls cough drops, licorice fern. Wilson also explains a continuing spiritual tradition the Catholic priests overlooked. “We go early in the morning, face downriver and let sad things go, and then facing upriver, we let all good things in,” she says. “That's how come we survived and are so resilient.”
Go: From Vancouver, hop on a 40-minute flight to Campbell River. Stay at the new Naturally Pacific Resort, a boutique hotel with golf course, luxurious spa and fine dining. From $193, naturallypacific.ca . Homalco Wildlife and Cultural Tours offers various experiences (from $198), including grizzly bear watching, through October. homalcotours.com
FIJI
One of the fastest and most pleasurable ways to learn about an Indigenous culture is to try some of its food, ideally with the folks who made it. At the InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort and Spa on Fiji’s main isle of Viti Levu, guests can take a class on how to make the traditional dish of kokoda, diced marinated fish in coconut milk that tastes like poisson cru with a chili kick. While grating fresh coconut meat to squeeze for milk, I discover my chef is part of a small Polynesian minority here, hailing from one of the fartherflung archipelagos of this predominantly Melanesian island chain.
A much larger minority — some 47% — of Fiji’s citizens are of South Asian descent, many of whose ancestors worked on sugar plantations after Fiji became a British crown colony in 1874. Following Fiji’s independence in 1970, tensions over ethnic, religious and language differences have led to multiple government coups, but the two groups largely live in peace. On the airport shuttle to the resort, my Fijian host has no problem stopping at a colorful Hindu temple and equally vibrant Indian snack stall. English, one of Fiji’s official languages along with Fijian and Fiji Hindi, is the lingua franca.
We also stop at one of the many Indian restaurants in Sigatoka, a half-hour from the resort, before taking a jet boat to travel into Fiji’s hilly interior. The peaceful scenery contrasts with the violent history of warring chiefs, exacerbated by the arrival of missionaries and plantation owners, that our guide recounts. The colonial period helped quell the warfare, but did little else to improve the lives of villagers.
They still face economic challenges today, so the Australian and Fijian owners of Sigatoka River Safari designed a tour that rotates weekly visits among 16 traditional villages and donates a portion of proceeds to them for infrastructure projects and other priorities. We participate in a kava drinking ceremony, gorge on a Fijian buffet laid out on a sarong and watch ebullient dances before friendly kids help push our boat from the dock for the zippy ride back to Sigatoka.
Go: Fiji Airways flies nonstop from San Francisco to Nadi, where you can transfer by car or helicopter to InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa. From $470, fiji.intercontinental.com. Sigatoka River Safari, from $100. sigatokariver.com
AUSTRALIA
“I’ve found you a koala,” Delvene Cockatoo-Collins whispers to me, shortly after I step off the ferry from Brisbane, Australia, to Minjerribah, the world’s second largest sand island.
An award-winning artist, Cockatoo-Collins is one of several guides of Quandamooka heritage who lead private tours of their ancestral home, also known as North Stradbroke Island. The iconic marsupial she spotted dozing in a bayside tree is just the first native wildlife of my half-day tour — a clutch of kangaroos, several breaching humpback whales and one enormous swimming sea turtle followed — and hearing her stories linking flora and fauna to her forebears makes the sightings even more special.
At leafy Myora Springs, we listen to native birdsong as Cockatoo-Collins collects freshwater reeds, used to create the traditional purses for collecting food known as dilly bags. Her grandmother’s grandmother wove the one on view at the North Stradbroke Island Museum on Minjerribah, while another of hers remains in the Smithsonian, according to Cockatoo-Collins. “I’m hoping they’ll return it to us,” she notes.
Long used for sand mining, and for 80 years before that as a government home for the elderly and destitute, Minjerribah and surrounding Moreton Bay only returned to native hands in 2011, thanks to a federal ruling. Nicknamed “Straddie,” the island has become popular for surfing and beach holidays. Encouraging signs of new growth are everywhere, from the plantings of eucalyptus to support the threatened koalas to Quandamooka-run enterprises, including Cockatoo-Collins’ textile and prints boutique.
Go: Fly nonstop to Brisbane from San Francisco via United and stay at the artsy, riverside Crystalbrook Vincent. From $294, crystalbrookcollection.com/vincent. For Minjerribah ferries and educational tours (from $100). stradbrokeisland.com
FRIDAY
Marin Covenant Church
OUT ABOUT AND
Community Ongoings
Concerts, festivals, arts and culture
U.S. Navy Blue Angels y over the Golden Gate Bridge during Fleet Week
EDITED BY MIMI PINSON
CALENDAR
Pumpkins, parades and plenty of fun in the autumn sun for Marin’s October events.
October Festivals & Fairs
OCT. 3–13 Mill Valley Film Festival Our local theaters draw an international audience during these 11 days featuring screenings, discussions and a tribute to actor Jude Law. Venues include theaters in Mill Valley, Larkspur, San Rafael and Berkeley. mvff.com
OCT. 4–6 Hardly Strictly Bluegrass A darling of Bay Area music fests returns for its 24th season with a weekend of free music — really good music. See big names like Emmylou Harris, Mavis Staples, rock band Sleater-Kinney and more. You might also find your next favorite artist. hardlystrictlybluegrass.com
OCT. 6 Castro Street Fair It all started with Harvey Milk in a dunk tank… Fifty years later, SF’s historic Castro District still hosts its annual street fair, with local artisans, craftspeople, organizations and community members uniting under the rainbow flag. castrostreetfair.org
OCT. 7–14 Fleet Week Ahoy, sailors. Fleet week doesn’t just consist of the spectacular airshows by flyers like the Blue Angels (on Oct. 11, 12 and 13). There are also concerts by Navy and Marine Corps bands, a veterans art exhibit and the parade of ships through the bay. fleetweeksf.org
OCT. 12 Biketoberfest Beer, music and bicycles coincide for this festival at the Marin Museum of Bicycling. Help expand Marin’s bicycle infrastructure by purchasing a drink ticket or leaving a donation at this otherwise free festival. marinbike.org
Rufus Wainwright at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass
HALLOWEEN
SEPT. 28–OCT. 31 Nicasio Valley Pumpkin Patch A classic pumpkin patch with farm animals, hayrides and plenty of round, orange gourds — all in the heart of Marin County.
nicasiovalleypumpkinpatch.net
OCT. 4–NOV. 3 Fatal Abduction Save the world from alien invaders at this immersive, campy theater-meets-haunted house experience, which was co-founded by beloved SF drag queen Peaches Christ. intothedarksf.com
OCT. 25 Halloween Paint and Sip The ticket price will get you paint materials plus drinks and snacks for this familyfriendly art event in the Fairfax Pavilion. townoffairfax.org
OCT. 26 Safe Trick-or-Treat It’s all treat and no trick at this community Halloween event, when families can go door to door for candy at shops and businesses in downtown Novato. downtownnovato.com
OCT. 26 Howl-o-Ween Supermutts, Halloweenies and spooky pups of all stripes are invited to Mill Valley Lumber Yard for its second annual doggy costume contest. Owners can come too. millvalleylumberyard.com
OCT. 27 Halloween Activity and Graveyard Stroll Meet scaly critters from East Bay Vivarium before embarking on a stroll through the woods at Lucas Valley Field Office. There will be some ghostly characters afoot, and (including?) our fabulous park rangers. marincounty.gov
OCT. 31 Pride and Joy SF Halloween Bash Do the Monster Mash at this Marin Jazz Halloween event, filled with dancing, a costume contest and music by party band Pride and Joy SF at the Marin Center’s Showcase Theater. marinjazz.org
ARTS, THEATER AND LECTURES
OCT. 9–13 Oakland Style Oakland’s looking good at this style-themed week of fashion shows, gastronomy and art events. Make a trip out of it: Some Oakland hotels are offering deals and discounts in conjunction with Oakland Style. visitoakland.com
OCT. 10–NOV. 3 Yaga A big-city detective gets caught up in a small-town disappearance and swirling folklore stories. Marin Theatre Company’s season opener is the U.S. premiere of this play that mixes noir with fairy tale — and not without a healthy dose of humor. marintheatre.org
OCT. 11 DSRAD Arts Festival The Downtown San Rafael Arts District presents its second annual festival featuring local artists and businesses, with added Halloween activities for the season. downtownsanrafael.org
OCT. 11–12 Novato Comedy Festival
The Bay Area’s stand-up talents shine at this two-night festival at Novato Theater Company. novatotheatercompany.org
MUSIC
OCT. 4 Tito Puente Jr. Get ready to mambo. Son of the Latin music giant and a remarkable bandleader in his own right, Tito Puente Jr., plays the very first Marin Jazz show. Puente brings with him a seven-piece band to the Showcase Theater. marinjazz.com
OCT. 11–12 Zepparella A powerhouse Led Zeppelin tribute band made up entirely of women musicians, this San Francisco group crosses the bridge to bring their headbanging covers to Sweetwater Music Hall. sweetwatermusichall.com
OCT. 12–13 Brahms and Beach Marin Symphony opens its season with a Brahms piano quartet and a flute and string quartet by American composer Amy Beach. Two performances are split between Novato’s Marin Country Club and Mill Valley’s Mount Tam Methodist Church. marinsymphony.org
OCT. 20 The Horszowski Trio An ensemble in residence at Bard College, the Horszowski Trio is a celebrated American group that has demonstrated their skill on international stages. Chamber Music Marin welcomes the group back for a set of Smetana and Mendelssohn. chambermusicmarin.org
MUSEUMS
OCT. 1–6 Nexus: SF/Bay Area Black Art Week Organized by Museum of the African Diaspora, this inaugural week of Black art will unite galleries, institutions and artists for discussions, community building and a culminating Afropolitan Ball. nexus-sfbay.com
OCT. 5–JAN. 2025 Mary Cassatt at Work
This Legion of Honor exhibit focuses on Impressionist Mary Cassatt’s method and process, as brush, pastel and even fingertips created her captivating paintings of contemporary women in daily life. famsf.org
OCT. 12–FEB. 9 Tamara de Lempicka It’s the first major retrospective on the works of this Art Deco painter, who blended cubism with neoclassical techniques. Looking for more Lempicka? A documentary about the painter will also play at Mill Valley Film Festival on Oct. 11 and 13. famsf.org
OCT. 5–DEC. 21 Opening the Mountain Inspired by a journey by a group of Beat poets around Mount Tam, this exhibit joins artists who work near or in the metaphorical shadow of Marin’s tallest peak, winding a story of place and counterculture at MarinMOCA’s San Rafael annex. marinmoca.org
OCT. 26 Marin History Museum Gala
Support the historical preservation done by Marin History Museum at their gala at Mill Valley Community Center. Beyond its fundraising efforts, the event will also spotlight history-making women of Marin. marinhistory.org
OUTDOOR FUN
OCT. 13 Italian Heritage Parade North Beach will be even more red, white and green than usual for this annual celebration of Italian American culture — the oldest parade of its kind in America. Try to book ahead to enjoy the best views from outdoor tables, set up by restaurants along the parade route. sfitalianheritage.org
OCT. 14 San Francisco Indigenous People’s Day Before it was San Francisco, or Yerba Buena, that land was called Yelamu, home to the Ohlone Ramaytush people. On Indigenous People’s Day, Yerba Buena Gardens hosts an afternoon celebration with Native American art, music and vendors for the holiday. ybgfestival.org
OCT. 26 Leap Sandcastle Classic Ponder the structural integrity of sand and water at this fundraiser for arts education in Bay Area public schools. Local companies partner with elementary school kids to co-design and sculpt sand masterpieces. leapsandcastelclassic.org
Yaga
EVENTS
OCT. 4 Drag Dinner Extravaganza One Market Restaurant in San Francisco’s downtown hosts a First Fridays event through the end of the year, featuring fabulous drag queens and a mouthwatering multi-course menu. onemarket.com
OCT. 4–6 Sausalito Boat Show Clipper Yacht Harbor fills with music, food, entertainment and, oh yeah, BOATS for this second annual celebration of Sausalito’s maritime heritage and community. sausalitoboatshow.com
OCT. 6 Stinson Beach Classic Car Show Benefiting Stinson Beach’s volunteer firefighters, this car show fills this beach town’s downtown streets with vintage wheels aplenty. rotaryclubwestmarin.com
OCT. 11–12 Nostalgia Days Stay tuned for more coupes, Cadillacs and cars from decades past at the 28th annual show of classic autos in downtown Novato. Stroll amongst the vehicles in a street fair, filled with rockabilly music by Mitch Polzak. nostalgiadays.com
The Horszowski Trio
WHAT’S HOT
BY MIMI PINSON
Swimming
in Fresh Fish
New hot spots and menus incorporate raw sh in inventive dishes.
Kuro Nami Japanese Kitchen
SAN ANSELMO
Spicy tuna rolls topped with salmon, grilled yellowtail collar with ponzu sauce, authentic Japanese hamburger steak and even sake cocktails to pair with a menu of mouthwatering sushi. Kuro Nami Japanese Kitchen, sister restaurant to The Baan Thai Cuisine, is a new outpost in San Anselmo for donburi, kani miso, fried dishes, sashimi and sushi. kuronamimarin.com
Secret Sushi
TIBURON
The Bungalow Kitchen in Tiburon launched a special dining experience along with new sushi offerings a la carte on the main menu. Book the tasting menu for a night of “secret sushi,” an omakase crafted by Chef Yukinori Yama with just 12 seats each night. Translated literally, omakase means “I leave it up to you,” and with Chef Yama, you’re in good hands. bungalowkitchen.com
Fairfax Brewing Company
FAIRFAX
Poke tacos are just one choice on the new Fairfax Brewing Company’s menu of elevated pub grub. Familiar favorites like wings, nachos and a “lights out” burger complement Asian fare like lumpia and Thai noodle salad — all waiting to balance out your pick of Pilsner, hazy IPA or any one of the other beers on tap. faxbrewco.com
CORTE MADERA
Burmatown Asian
Though the menu remains largely the same (that tea leaf salad! Those bao!) at the new location down the street from the original, the addition of a grill boosts the menu with dishes like kalbi ribs or smoked salmon collars. A long bar on one side of the room serves wine and beer and the front windows slide open for easy access to a large patio. 18 Tamalpais Ave, 415.985.5060; burmatown.com
$ BB
Flores Mexican
With an emphasis on regional Mexican dishes and avors sourced from family recipes, the menu is based on California seasonality and revolves around gluten-free masa. The daily-made tortillas are a highlight. 301 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.500.5145; oressf.com
HH BB
Marin Joe’s Italian
A mainstay for over 50 years for a reason: the menu calls to you with garlic bread, a calamari sandwich and mesquite-grilled prime rib. Sautéed classics of the ItalianAmerican canon as well as oysters doré and pastas have withstood the test of time. 1585 Casa Buena Dr, 415.924.2081; marinjoesrestaurant. com
Zinz Wine Bar
Californian
Locals pop by the petite wine bar for its cozy atmosphere and an eclectic array
of boutique wines and craft beer, all available for takeout. A short menu of prosciutto-wrapped dates, charcuterie and cheese boards is perfect for enjoying during a Friday night tasting event. 207 Corte Madera Ave, 415.927.9466; zinzwinebar.com
HH$
FAIRFAX
Fradelizio’s Italian
A perennial neighborhood gem, the cozy space welcomes all with daily specials (salmon, line-caught in Bolinas, with a golden beet and arugula salad, house made Meyer lemon fettuccine with salmon and asparagus) and a wine by the barrel program. 35 Broadway Blvd, 415.459.1618; fradelizios.com
Sorella Ca e Italian
Run by sisters Sonia and Soyara, Sorella serves fresh Italian with a northern influnce. Favorites include the cioppino, butternut squash ravioli, pollo alla Sorella and the garlic bread. 107 Bolinas Rd, 415.258.4520; sorellaca e.com
HH $ BB HH $ BB
GREENBRAE/ KENTFIELD
Guesthouse
Californian Jared Rogers, the former executive chef of Picco, heads up the kitchen, partnering with restaurateur Dustin Sullivan on this 110-seat space. Look for well-executed
LIVING BY THE WHEEL BAJA, MÉXICO
JANUARY 11-16, 2025
A 6-day, 5-night coastal retreat exploring the healing depths of the chakras and the shamanic medicine wheel at the AWARD-WINNING Prana del Mar. Friendly for all bodies. For more information: harmonyelemental.com/baJa2025
THE SACRED JOURNEY: YOGA & SHAMANISM WITH MARY MACHADO & MOLLY MAGUIRE
OUT AND ABOUT DINE
OPEN HOUSE
California cuisine with weekly specials like Prime Rib on Mondays and fried chicken on Sundays, plus killer cocktails — the Sunburn and Easy Money are local favorites.
850 College Ave, Kent eld, 415.419.5101; guesthousemarin.com
Half Day Cafe
American
Tucked away in a setting of intertwining ivy and large open windows, this cafe is the quintessential breakfast nook and is also open for brunch and lunch, including co ee drinks, pastries and much more. Enjoy a casual daytime meal inside or out on the patio. 848 College Ave, Kent eld, 415.459.0291; halfdaycafe.net
$BB
LARKSPUR
Left Bank Restaurant
French
This Parisian-style brasserie by Chef Roland Passot has been serving the community for more than two decades. Whether on the patio, bar or in the elegant main dining room with a huge replace, it’s a fun experience. The menu features authentic French cuisine utilizing seasonal, local and organic ingredients.
507 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.3331; leftbank.com
Perry’s American
Perry’s on Magnolia has the same classic American cuisine, bustling bar and warm service and personality the San
Francisco original has always been famous for. Plentiful outdoor dining options. It’s bar is a perennial best of the county winner. 234 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.1877; perryssf.com
BB
Pizzeria Picco Pizza
This family-friendly parlor next door to Picco o ers Californiain uenced Neapolitan pizzas cooked in a wood-burning oven. Fresh mozzarella is pulled in-house and the menu also features organic salads, antipasti and Straus Dairy softserve ice cream. Heated outdoor seating is available. 316 Magnolia Ave, 415.945.8900; pizzeriapicco.com
$ R’noh Thai Thai
This cozy place with a patio by the Corte Madera Creek has a reputation for fresh avors. It’s all here, from curries and Thai barbecue to noodle dishes and the classic tom kha (coconut lemongrass soup). For an indulgent treat, try the fried sweet potato appetizer. 1000 Magnolia Ave, 415.925.0599; rnohthai. com
$
Rustic Bakery Californian
The Marin-grown bakery is known and loved the world over. Organic bread and pastries baked fresh each morning and salads, sandwiches, and soups make this a staple. 2017 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.461.9900 and 1139 Magnolia Ave; 415.925.1556; rusticbakery.com
$
OUT AND ABOUT DINE
MILL VALLEY
Bungalow 44
American
The bustling bar is ideal for savoring a seasonal cocktail or an order of the house’s famous kickin’ fried chicken. The one-dollar happy hour oyster program still operates from 5–6 p.m., Monday–Thursday and the heated outdoor patio is a town hot spot. 44 E Blithedale Ave, 415.381.2500; bungalow44.com
Floodwater
Californian
Order a handcrafted “Gold Rush” (Old Forester bourbon, local honey, lemon) at the long 20 seat bar and watch the game on ve huge 4K TVs while noshing on pork belly steamed buns, or dive into Shorty’s Tall Reuben. The patio features multiple re pits. 152 Shoreline Hwy, 415.843.4545; flodwatermv.com
HH $
Gravity Tavern
American
With ingredients suited to reflet modern tastes, American classics like grilled chicken Waldorf salad with pickled grapes, lobster roll with toasted challah and veggie slaw, and a land and sea pasta with housemade egg pasta, pork belly and crab, may have also been familiar fare for passengers of the Mt. Tam gravity car for which this saloon was named. 38 Miller Ave, 415.888.2108; gravitytavern.com
BB HH
Harmony Chinese
A warm, inviting place to enjoy classical and innovative Cantonese fare with the house specialty, hand crafted dim sum. Local favorites include savory Peking duck with steamed tea buns, juicy Shanghai dumplings and unique bites like minced lamb with radicchio cups.
The famous signature beef is a de nite must. 401 Strawberry Village, 415.381.5300; harmonyrestaurant group.com
Hook Fish Co Seafood
The wood-ceilinged dining room feels like a boat’s galley and the spot’s popular outdoor beer garden adjacent to Mill Valley’s Proof Lab at Tam Junction has 13 taps, but the draw at this counter-service joint is the seafood. The transparent supply chain means you can enjoy the poke, sh and chips or sh tacos knowing where and on what boat your meal came from.
254 Shoreline Hwy; hook shco.com
Piatti Ristorante and Bar Italian
A replace lounge and open format concept invites lingering over refreshed menu items such as house made ravioli with lemon cream and citrus gremolata, roasted mushroom pizza with taleggio fonduta and black tru e oil or roasted salmon with artichokes and Calabrian chili.
625 Redwood Hwy, 415.380.2525; piatti.com
Tamalpie Italian
With views of Mt. Tam from the covered, heated patio, this spot known for its local sourcing also features two replaces and a full bar serving craft cocktails, wine and beer. The di erence is in the dough, small batch, housemade and gluten-free.
477 Miller Ave, 415.388.7437; tamalpiepizzeria.com
Watershed Californian
Gather ’round the re pit in front of the restaurant at the Lumber Yard or hang out at the long bar for a predinner glass of wine before sampling one of the many dishes curated to reflet the bounty of Marin. The Stemple Creek Ranch burger and fresh pastas are matched with a bevy of simply prepared, easy to share dishes.
129 Miller Ave,
415.888.2406; watershed.com
NOVATO
Perry’s American
Epic burgers and cocktails, excellent service, signature blueand-white gingham tablecloths — expect all of those and more here at Perry’s northernmost location. 224 Alameda Del Prado, 415.506.4212; perryssf.com BB
The Speakeasy American
In addition to the 10 beers on tap, cocktails range from the 1920s to the 2020s.
A shareable, tapasstyle menu includes grilled maitake mushrooms, escargot and mini street tacos. 504 Alameda del Prado, 415.883.7793; thespeakeasynovato. com HH$
Toast American
With outdoor dining and spacious inside seating at Hamilton Marketplace, large parties, families and everyone else dives in on comfort food favorites like corned beef hash, buttermilk pancakes and at dinner, chicken schnitzel and shrimp scampi. 5800 Nave Dr, 415.382.1144; toastnovato.com
$
Trailhead American
Order breakfast, shareable snacks, paninis, salads, and Equator co ee drinks at the counter before grabbing a seat on the all-day café’s shaded patio. The baked goat cheese is a standout and pairs with the 10 local beers and two wines available on tap or from the craft can program. 127 San Marin Dr, 415.493.6902; trailheadnovato.com
$
“Crack Chicken” by fans), Korean BBQ ank steak and Wor Won Ton soup. 335 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.9840; comfortscafe.com
$ BB
Creekside Pizza & Tap Room American
A perennial Best of the County winner known for their artisan pizzas, hearty sandwiches, avorful pastas and fresh salads, Creekside o ers plentiful glutenfree and vegan options too. Their copper bar with a 40-handle selection of craft beer (including gluten-free beer), plus wine and kombucha on tap. 638 San Anselmo Ave, 415.785.4450; creeksidesa.com
SAN ANSELMO ROSS
The Baan Thai Cuisine Thai
Known for its mango sticky rice, crispy corn cakes and The Baan Thai salad, new menu items like fresh spring rolls and steamed dumplings and old favorites such as the tom kha soup entice with fresh avors and just the right amount of sweet heat. 726 San Anselmo Ave, 415.457.9470; baanthaimarin.com
Comforts Cafe American
Established in 1986, Comforts has a cozy sit-down cafe, serving breakfast, lunch and weekend brunch. Besides the famous Chinese chicken salad, other winners are the stu ed pecan-crusted French toast, chicken Okasan (nicknamed
Kuro Nami Japanese Kitchen Japanese Kuro Nami, which means “black wave,” is a new restaurant from the team behind The Baan Thai Cuisine. There, you’ll nd inventive sushi rolls, premium sake and a menu of signature dishes that explore the depth of Japanese cuisine. It’s not just sushi — you can try picks like kani miso (grilled miso paste with crab), or their creamy pasta with tempura soft-shell crab. 69 Center Blvd, San Anselmo, 415.459.6969; kuro namimarin.com
N Madcap
Californian
Cucina sa Italian
Open for lunch, weekend brunch, and dinner six nights a week, come by for homemade pastas, seasonal salads, and wood- red pizzas that strike a balance between southern Italy and Northern California. Don’t skip the happy hour from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. from Tuesday to Friday, either!
510 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.2942; cucina-sa.com
BB BB
Chef Ron Siegel’s contemporary art- lled space is known for its urban edge. The vegetable-centric menu, available as a tasting menu, incorporates seafood and Japanese techniques in colorful dishes like trout with baby bok choy, purple daikon and dashi that are bold, balanced and bright. 198 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo, 415.453.9898; madcapmarin.com
Marché Californian
Flour Craft Bakery American
Along with artisan gluten-free and an assortment of vegan pastries, breads and special-occasion cakes, this petite cafe serves a lunch menu of so-called fancy toast and big green salads with seasonal air. 702 San Anselmo Ave, 415.453.3100; florcraftbakery.com $BB
Into the former Marche aux Fleurs space, Marché’s owners Darren and Alicia Banks focus on seasonal ingredients in plates of avocado toast with Urfa chile, shishito peppers with togarashi, and house made gnocchi with shiitakes is Californian all the way. 23 Ross Common, Ross; 415.925.9200; marchemarin.com
N
Kuro Nami Japanese Kitchen, San Anselmo
Enjoy breakfast or lunch in our cafe, featuring seasonal menus and local favorites, such as our signature Chinese chicken salad, stuffed Pecan-crusted French toast, delicious scrambles, flvorful sandwiches and more. Take home comforting family meals from our newly renovated marketplace! And Comforts Catering can provide easy and delicious celebratory meals for any holiday gathering! For more information, please visit our website.
COMFORTS
335 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, CA 415.454.9840 comfortscafe.com
La Gastronomia is open 6 days a week for dinner from 5 PM to 9 PM, with brunch available on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 AM to 3 PM. Reserve your table on our website and come experience the “Best Italian Restaurant” and “Best Overall Restaurant,” as recognized by the SF Chronicle.
123 Bolinas Road, Fairfax, CA lagastronomiadiporchetta.com (415) 419-5465
ORGANIC ORGANIC CORE
At Good Earth, we believe in the power of organic to support human health & the health of our planet.
Find organic produce, meat, pantry staples & more in one of our convenient Marin locations or online at genatural.com
FAIRFAX720 CENTER BLVD. MILL VALLEY201 FLAMINGO RD.
Cucina sa is open for lunch and dinner 6 days a week! Lunch is served Tuesday through Friday 11:30AM to 3 PM, brunch is served Saturday and Sunday from 11:30AM to 3 PM, and dinner is Tuesday through Sunday from 5PM to 9 PM. Outside dining on our bridge and parklet. Hope that you can join us soon! Please call for larger parties or special requests.
CUCINA SA
510 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, CA 415.454.2942 cucina-sa.com
Marinitas Mexican
This sister restaurant of Insalata’s continues to ourish as a bastion of creative Mexican and Central and South American cuisine. Not your typical south-ofthe-border spot, they serve up top-notch margaritas and Latin lusciousness. 218 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.454.8900; marinitas.com
HH $ BB
Valenti & Co.
Italian
The bright yet cozy indoor space and warmly lit back patio are ideal environments for authentic Italian dishes made with local ingredients. The menu changes daily but look for the carpaccio of beef, the pan-seared Pekin duck and chef Valenti’s famous tower of triple chocolate love at dessert. 337 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.7800; valentico.com
SAN RAFAEL
Cafe Arrivederci
Italian
Located in the heart of San Rafael for the past 27 years! Chef Tito is proud to serve fresh homemade pastas and dishes from all over Italy. Visit the expansive dining room, full bar, garden patio and private rooms for parties and events. 11 G St, 415.453.6427; cafearrivederci.com N
Cafe del Soul
Californian
Healthy options become addictive at this eatery that now has locations in Tam Junction and San Rafael. Once you stop in for the deliciously fresh quinoa wrap, you’ll want to return to try the chipotle rice bowl. 1408 Fourth St, 415.457.5400; cafedelsoul.net
$
Fish Seafood
It has been said that this restaurant and sh market launched the sustainable seafood movement, making it the ultimate place for freshly caught, unobjectionable fare. Order any of the day’s o erings — the menu changes — daily but usually has a variation of sh tacos, ceviche and grilled sh. 350 Harbor Dr, 415.331.3474; 331 sh.com
Poggio Italian
Vin Antico American
Vin Antico, “where passion meets the plate,” serves seasonal market-inspired cuisine like stone-oven-baked atbreads, handmade pastas and organic salads, all innovatively prepared. Black sesame-crusted tuna is classic, even better with an Il Capo negroni. 881 Fourth St, 415.721.0600; vinantico.com
BB N
SAUSALITO
Angelino Restaurant
Italian
Multiple generations of the Ancona family create an authentic Italian eatery with handmade pastas and seasonal antipasti that has showcased the cuisine of the Campania regionfor more than 20 years. 621 Bridgeway, 415.331.5225; angelino restaurant.com
St, 415.366.4088; bungalowkitchen.com
Vitello sliced excruciatingly thin and topped with lemon and tonnato sauce is a singular dish in the hands of executive chef Benjamin Balesteri who creates Northern Italian fare using local and Italian ingrdients. 777 Bridgeway, 415.332.7771; poggiotrattoria.com
BB
TIBURON
The Bungalow Kitchen Californian
A lively social lounge and restaurant from chef Michael Mina and Brent Bolthouse boasts epic views and a menu of seasonal California fare executed by chef Harrison Chernick — crispy Liberty duck wings glazed with Grand Marnier and black pepper, cavatelli cacio e pepe with black tru es, jalapeño shrimp toast — at night. Brunch cocktails pair with sweet potato pancakes and hot chicken and wa es on weekends while the upstairs lounge boasts late-night service (until 12 a.m.), a billiards table, a gas-powered replace, and a live DJ on weekends. 5 Main
The Caprice Californian Expansive bay views from every seat are just one of many charms after an extensive remodel. The revamped menu of well-crafted comfort food from land (bone-in let mignon, Colorado lamb chops) and sea (gnocchi with crab, abalone dore), also features classic cocktails and a wine list that leans towards American, Italian and French o erings.
Complimentary evening valet provided.
2000 Paradise Drive, 415.435.3400; thecaprice.com
HH BB
The Caviar Co
American Belvedere resident Petra Bergstein expanded her San Francisco-based business with a downtown shop and restaurant dedicated to the briny delicacy. Caviar ights, along with Champagne by the glass or bottle and small plates like grilled cheese with tru es, are available to enjoy in their tasting room or to take home.
46A Main Street, Tiburon; 415.889.5168; info.thecaviarco.com
Petite Left Bank French
A smaller version of the Larkspur original features an all-day menu of French bistro classics. A notable wine list, artisan craft cocktail menu, and spirit-free beverages round out the lively experience. Open daily for lunch and dinner, with weekend
brunch on Saturday and Sunday, and daily morning co ee and pastry service coming soon. 1696 Tiburon Blvd, Tiburon; 415.910.1010; petiteleftbanktiburon.com
$ N
WEST MARIN
Side Street
Kitchen American
The ne-casual eatery led by chef Aaron Wright serves favorites like rotisserie chicken, and pork-belly BLTs as well as wholesome vegetarian fare. This is one of the few spots in West Marin that serves gluten-free beer. The cozy patio is shaded and dog-friendly. 60 Fourth St, Point Reyes Station, 415.663.0303; sidestreet-prs.com $BB
Burmatown, Corte Madera
BEST OF MARIN COUNTY: CREEKSIDE PIZZA & TAPROOM
Lunch service begins at Creekside daily at 11AM with delicious salads, sandwiches, pasta dishes, gourmet pizzas, plus vegan and gluten free options.
Creekside is your destination for Marin’s best craft beer selection, with over 25 breweries on 40 taps, plus our curated California-focused wine list. Happy Hour every day, seven days a week at 4PM. We invite you to visit downtown San Anselmo for great shopping, award winning restaurants, and enjoy our family friendly town here in the Heart of Marin.
638 San Anselmo Avenue, San Anselmo, CA 415.785.4450 www.CreeksideSA.com
BY DONNA BERRY GLASS
ON SCENE THE
Mountain Play’s Kinky Boots Kicks It
A total of 5,500 loyal fans attended the Mountain Play’s 2024 musical, Kinky Boots, which chronicles the journey of a man who enlists a charismatic drag queen to help him save the floundeing shoe business he inherited from his father. The play, based on music and lyrics by ‘80s icon Cyndi Lauper, had audiences jumping to their feet and voicing their praise during the production’s four shows in June at the Cushing Memorial Amphitheatre on Mount Tam.
1 Miss Jaye as Lola and Cody Craven as Charlie Price; 2 The Cast of Kinky Boots; 3 Miss Jaye as Lola, Cody Craven as Charlie Price, and Cast Members; 4 Lola portrayed by Miss Jaye and The Angels
SchoolsRule
Marin’s Sailing Towards Equity Raises $400K
SchoolsRule Marin, a nonprofit that unfies the many public school foundations throughout the county, held its annual fundraiser at the Corinthian Yacht Club on Sept. 7. The event raised $400,000, which will go towards fostering important programs in arts, technology, literacy and wellness in all of Marin’s public schools. Marin County Superintendent of Schools John Carroll, Marin County Superintendent Emerita Mary Jane Burke and other advocates of Marin's public school system were among the 200 supporters in attendance.
Sound Summit Rocks Mount Tan Once Again
On Sept. 7, thousands of adventurous spirits made their way to the top of Mount Tamalpais for Sound Summit, the annual community gathering high above San Francisco Bay known for its winning combination of vibrant music, good vibes and breathtaking views. This year’s festive crowd was treated to a stellar lineup featuring indie-rock icons Courtney Barnett and Kurt Vile along with retrosoul ensemble The California Honeydrops, 18-year-old guitar sensation Grace Bowers & The Hodge Podge and the genre-defying Bay Area artist, Skyway Man.
1 Tamara Ressler, Jean-Denis Ncho-Oguie, Alicia Ncho-Oguie, John Carroll, Susan Mathews; 2 Mary Jane Burke, Barbara and Charlie Goodman; 3 Nancy and Ron Felder EVP Redwood Credit Union; 4 Anne Sapp, Stephanie Plante, Elisabeth Buford, Deborah Goldman
1 Courtney Barnett; 2 Fans and friends at Sound Summit; 3 Grace Bowers & The Hodge Podge at Sound Summit
Marin Students Visit Sausalito’s Sister City in Japan A dozen Marin high school students took part in a cultural immersion trip to Sausalito’s sister city of Sakaide, Japan from July 26 to Aug. 7. It was part of an international youth exchange between the two cities that has been taking place for the past 36 years. The students, chaperoned by Jill and Larry Knott, stayed with local Japanese families during their 12-day visit. They participated in tea ceremonies, ikebana ower arranging and a festival parade, made udon, visited the ancient city of Kyoto and were honored at a special event hosted by Mayor Arifuku of Sakaide — all contributing to a life-changing experience for the teens.
1 Japanese Tea Ceremony in Kofuen Park; 2 Emma Wait, Luna Chacon, Jill Knott, Antanasia Cook, Jaliyah Cook; 3 Antanasia Cook and Jaliyah Cook; 3 Boating through Ritsurin Koen Park gardens in Takamatsu
Marin
Summer Learning With Backpacks
For the fourth year in a row, several Marin-based agencies teamed up to hand out free summer learning backpacks to 1,000 preschool kids aged 2 to 5. Each pack was chock-full of essential learning tools including a notebook, markers, colored pencils, crayons, pencils, sharpener, eraser, scissors and a glue stick. The backpacks were funded by First 5 Marin Children and Families Commission. Friends of the Marin County Free Library funded the books. Kids joyfully received their packs at family-centric events around the county in late June staffed by the Learning Bus of the Marin County Free Library and the Bay Area Discovery Museum.
J. Roland Salon in Sausalito Celebrates Best of the County Inclusion
Within six months of opening in a bright sunny salon on Caledonia Street, J. Roland Salon’s expansion from San Francisco made it onto Marin Magazine’s Best Hair Salon list for 2024. To celebrate, the staff threw a party last month and invited fellow Sausalito Chamber businesses. 1
1 Eric Lucan and Elisa Lacerda help a young girl choose a free book from the Learning Bus; 2 Marin preschoolers show o their new packs at Pickleweed Park; 3 Juliet Schiller and Lana Adlawan (far left) along with other staff rom the Marin County Free Library hand out backpacks
1 Karen Fraser, Liz Kraus, Nikki C Wood; 2 Lucinda Eubanks, Steve Woodside, Daryl Niemerow; 3 Mimi Towle, Joseph Roland
Nurtures
MARIN HOME
Modern Makeover
A 1970s-era home in San Rafael gets a stylish update for fun and family time.
BY LOTUS ABRAMS PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATE STRAUBINGER
IT’S HARD TO IMAGINE
what Alex Shvartsman and Emy Vo’s San Rafael home looked like before the couple renovated. Built in 1970 by the previous owner, the two-story, 3,700-square-foot, five-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath dwelling was maintained in meticulous condition, but its “Brady Bunch” aesthetic — popcorn ceilings, red brick fireplaces, small kitchen, wallpapered bathrooms, dated light fixtures, low ceilings and carpet throughout — was in dire need of an update. Still, the couple saw the potential to transform the property into a modern family oasis.
Shvartsman and Vo already owned a primary residence in Kentfield, where their two children go to school, but they decided to buy the property in San Rafael as a spec home, with Shvartsman, a Compass real estate agent, representing the family in the transaction. After the renovation was completed, however, they liked the results so much that they decided to keep the property as a second home, where they now enjoy spending time together as a family when the kids aren’t in school.
To help bring their ideas to life, the couple worked with Oakland-based architect Pete Retondo. “Pete really understood our vision,” Shvartsman says. “We drew out the changes that we wanted, and then he provided feedback in terms of what might make sense from an architectural standpoint. Then we came together with the final design.”
Retondo concurs, “Alex is very hands on, and he knew exactly what he wanted to do: He wanted to dramatically change the feel and stylistic perception of the house.”
The change that made the biggest impact was replacing the 8-foot ceiling on the upper level of the home with a new cathedral ceiling that reaches over 13 feet — a feat that required 3D renderings and
From top: The living room replace is wrapped in Venetian plaster; the primary bathroom was recon gured to accommodate two vanities, a makeup counter, a steam shower and radiant heat ooring; the kitchen features an Arabescato Corchia marble backsplash and countertops and custom cabinetry by Italian rm Copatlife.
collaboration with structural engineer Alexei Lukban of DCG Inc. to execute successfully.
“We had to reframe the roof completely,” Retondo says. “It was a major structural change because the original house was framed with site-built trusses and a flat ceiling, and it’s an L-shaped house, with different spans wall to wall.”
The team also improved the flow of the common spaces on the upper level of the home, including converting the small, U-shaped kitchen into an entertaining-ready, galley-style kitchen that is open to the family room. Arabescato Corchia marble forms the backsplash, countertops and waterfalls on the island, while the custom cabinetry is crafted by Italian firm Copatlife, sourced through exclusive U.S. distributor Prestige Designs. New skylights illuminate the space from overhead.
Details
WHERE San Rafael
WHAT
expanded the patio, which required excavating part of the hillside on the 19,000-square-foot lot.
1970 two-story ranch-style renovation
ARCHITECT
Pete Retondo
STRUCTURAL
ENGINEER
Alexei Lukban, DCG Inc.
Among the improvements in the living room and family room, Shvartsman and Vo wrapped the home’s two fireplaces in Venetian plaster and furnished the spaces with custom couches designed by Bimma Loft in San Francisco. The family room now boasts two 16-foot glass bi-folding NanaWall doors that open to the backyard, where the couple installed a pool and outdoor kitchen. They also
The entrance to the home is on the lower level, via an 8-foot steel pivot door crafted by Hayward-based firm StatusWood. To the left of the entrance, Shvartsman and Vo turned the former rumpus room into a game room with a pool table, arcade games, wall-mounted TV and bar with a beverage refrigerator, as well as a glass-enclosed, temperature-controlled wine cellar.
The team also upgraded the bathrooms throughout the home, including installing radiant heat. Retondo reconfigured the primary bathroom to accommodate two vanities, a makeup counter and a steam shower. Meanwhile, the kids’ bathroom features two vanities as well — one inside the bathroom and another just outside the bathroom door. A back door provides access to the kids’ bathroom and laundry room from the backyard — perfect for guests coming in from the pool.
Wide-plank oak flooring, smart home technology, and Tesla solar with two power walls complete the transformation. “The project started out as a cosmetic remodel, but then it expanded, and we took the opportunity to customize the home so that it’s both fun and homey,” Shvartsman says. “It really exceeded all of our expectations.”
The game room is out tted with a pool table, arcade games, wallmounted TV and bar, as well as a temperature-controlled wine cellar.
Situated on a prestigious street, this craftsman home offers sophistication, privacy, and serenity. Enjoy breathtaking, panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, downtown San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Sausalito, and Mt. Tamalpais.
The combined living and dining room features vaulted ceilings and expansive waterside windows, inviting the stunning views indoors. The chef’s kitchen, with a sunny breakfast nook, overlooks endless vistas. Outdoors, multiple patios, a forever pool, and lush gardens with fruit trees and flowers provide perfect entertaining spaces.
The separate guest cottage, with a European sauna and elegant flow to the pool and grounds, offers an idyllic setting for extended family, friends, or an au pair. Close to downtown Tiburon, Ark Row, waterfront dining, wine tasting, theater, and the Ferry, this is a truly unique offering! Exceptional Belvedere Island View Estate! $11,900,000
House
Wine Country Living in Marin
116 WINDWALKER WAY, NOVATO
4 BEDS | 3 BATHS | 3,641 SQ. FT. | +3-CAR GARAGE LISTED AT $1,999,000 | MULTIPLE OFFERS & SALE PENDING IN 6 DAYS
“From our initial meeting, Carolyn exhibited a remarkable level of professionalism and expertise. She took the time to understand our unique situation and implemented strategies to prepare our home and marketed utilizing both traditional and digital channels, ensuring maximum exposure. Throughout the selling process, Carolyn kept us well informed and made us feel exceptionally supported. At each task, and in the final negotiations, Carolyn surpassed our expectations. If you are looking to sell your home with someone who will invests her time, knowledge, and vast creativity to your benefit, we wholeheartedly recommend Carolyn Moren.”
Whether maximizing the value of your home or finding the home of your dreams, our Marin agents provide incomparable service at all price points. We’re locally rooted, globally connected, and leading our industry.
Sara Downs
415.847.1166
s.downs@ggsir.com
SaraDowns.GoldenGateSIR.com Lic.# 02003467
Susan Hewitt 415.407.8349
susan@sothebysrealty.com
TheGoldenGateGroup.co m Lic.# 00996144
C.J. Nakagawa
415.407.2151
cj@sothebysrealty.com
TheGoldenGateGroup.com Lic.# 01913564
Marcia Skall, MBA 415.533.5721
m.skall@ggsir.com
Lindy Emrich 415.717.4005
SkallGlassman.co m Lic.# 01077678 Jennifer
lindy@ggsir.com
LindyEmrich.co m Lic.# 00511105
Lena Marie Lionetti
415.798.0034
l.lionetti@ggsir.com
TheGoldenGateGroup.com Lic.# 02002764
Sherry Ramzi 415.902.7344
s.ramzi@ggsir.com
MarinExclusiveHomes.co m Lic.# 01057486
Alisa Knobbe Wynd 415.298.4037
a.wynd@ggsir.com
AlisaWynd.co m Lic.# 01342726
j.glassman@ggsir.com
SkallGlassman.co m Lic.# 02059113
Carolyn Moren 415.505.3013
c.moren@ggsir.com
MarinHouseAndHome.com Lic.# 01922755
Kathy Schlegel
415.699.7406
kathy@kathyschlegel.com
KathySchlegel.co m Lic.# 01089137
j.zeiter@ggsir.com
MarinFineProperty.com
The Sarkissian Bullock Team is extremely proud to have represented the Reed family in the sale of this legendary property to the Trust for Public Land, thereby ensuring its open space in perpetuity. Congratulations and thank you to all the contributors – in time and money – who finally succeeded in preserving this inestimable property for current and future generations.
$42,100,000
THREE BEDROOMS | TWO AND A HALF BATHROOMS | OFFERED AT $3,100,000
Welcome to 171 Prospect Avenue, a beautifully updated Craftsman home in San Anselmo’s coveted Winship Park. Renovated by T.W. Ryan Architecture, this residence combines timeless charm with modern amenities. It features elegant black oak floors, a stylish living room with Mt. Tamalpais views, and a Neolith stone fireplace. The versatile den includes a built-in media cabinet and fireplace. The gourmet kitchen boasts custom cabinets, Viking appliances, and Caesarstone countertops. The main-level primary bedroom offers a luxurious en suite bath and a flexible adjacent room. The lower level includes two bedrooms, a full bath, and storage. Outside, enjoy a private pool, hot tub, and breathtaking views. With Tesla Powerwall 2s, solar panels, and proximity to downtown San Anselmo, this home offers both luxury and convenience. Visit 171Prospect.com for more information about this property.
Chelsea E. Ialeggio | 415.300.6881
chelsea@vanguardmarin.com DRE#01394011
NOW IS THE TIME TO PLACE YOUR TRUST IN THE EXPERTISE OF YOUR LOCAL REALTOR ®
Now, more than ever, is the time to work with a local real estate professional in order to gain a competitive edge in securing your dream home or maximizing your investment. With a real estate agent from Vanguard Properties, the Bay Area’s largest independently owned brokerage, you will be expertly guided through the changing real estate landscape, ensuring you achieve the best possible outcome.
Link & Nan Allen
Debra Andelin Q Ansari | Courtney Banks
William Barrett | Beat Bossart
Jennifer Bowman
Tracey Broadman | Kevin Brown
Arlin Campbell | Daniel Carey
Rachel Cleaveland | David Doyle
Susie Drysdale | Daniel Patrick Duffy
Jane Ewert | Elliott Fink | Reese Forbes
Matt Francis | Vance & Anna Frost
Marc A. Gonzalez | Clark Goodrich
Whitney Hansen | Karen Z. Hardesty | Laura Hunter
Chelsea E. Ialeggio | Peter Ivanovich | Kimberly Kadesh
Josh Karsen | Kalenn Khron | Kimberly Koza
Stacey Lamirand | Marcela Arrias Lembi | Marc Machado
Goli Majlessi | Wendy Medeiros | Jeff & Kristin Moseley
Enriched by a seamless blend of contemporary style and rustic flair, this exceptional renovation epitomizes the
where breathtaking architectural design and superior finishes merge effortlessly to
Significantly renovated and completed in 2024, this impressive residence exemplifies meticulous attention to
and the
level of craftsmanship, boasting state-of-the-art finishes and an elevated design aesthetic.
• The expansive private grounds evoke a resort-like ambiance, featuring a stunning pool, a pool deck perfect for lounging and soaking up the sun, a sprawling turf lawn, an expansive entertainment deck, manicured landscaping, patios, and picturesque views of the San Francisco skyline, the Bay, and Belvedere Island
• The great room showcases the remarkable architectural elements and high-quality craftsmanship found throughout the residence, featuring a soaring openbeam ceiling with a central skylight, a gas-start fireplace, and large windows framing breathtaking views
• The state-of-the-art chef’s kitchen features quartz countertops, an expansive center island with counter seating, skylights, two sinks, extensive cabinetry offering ample storage, and high-end stainless steel appliances
• An inviting breakfast area opens to the entertainment deck, perfect for indoor-outdoor dining
• The magazine-worthy primary suite is a luxurious sanctuary of unparalleled comfort, boasting a gas-start fireplace, large windows, a walk-in closet with a custom wardrobe system, and sliding glass doors that open to a deck with beautiful views of the beautiful grounds
• Indulge in a spa-like retreat in the lavish primary bathroom, featuring porcelain tile floors, dual vanities of quartz countertops and wood cabinetry, and timeless Waterworks fixtures; the partially enclosed shower and soaking tub 'wet room' is a true centerpiece, featuring glass walls framing a Badeloft tub, an expansive rain shower with a built-in bench, and skylights that illuminate the elegant travertine walls
• Three comfortable bedrooms, a full bathroom, and a chic powder room complete the main level of the residence
• Tucked away on the third floor, an incredible ADU boasts its own exterior entrance, vaulted ceilings, hardwood floors, and a stylish full bathroom with a stall shower; the well-appointed kitchenette features a sink, U-line mini fridge, two-burner electric cooktop, built-in cabinetry, and floating shelves
• The fifth bedroom, or ideal guest suite, is located on the entry level and features a walk-in closet, an en-suite bathroom, and access to a private patio
• A wine cellar and a laundry room are also located on the entry level
• Two car attached garage with Tesla charger
BREATHTAKING BELVEDERE ISLAND VILLA
This elegant villa-style estate epitomizes architectural excellence, effortlessly capturing the romantic charm of Italy’s coastal allure with a breathtaking panorama that includes views of Corinthian Island, Belvedere Cove, Raccoon Strait, the San Francisco Bay, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Rich in history, this landmark estate is designated as the 24th historic property in Belvedere and retains the significant tax advantage of its Mills Act Agreement.
• Located on the coveted East side of Belvedere Island, this stately residence underwent an extensive renovation from 2006 to 2009, and again in 2024; no expense was spared in preserving and enhancing the original period elements while seamlessly integrating modern amenities and high-quality finishes to create timeless living spaces
• This captivating estate is a true haven for entertainers, with enchanting park-like grounds that feature a large ceramic-tiled pool with a pool deck and bathroom, extensive multi-level gardens with mature plantings, multiple entertainment terraces and balconies, turf lawns, patios, and meandering pathways, creating an idyllic setting for both grand and intimate gatherings
• The elegant and inviting grand living room boasts coffered ceilings, an impressive wood-burning fireplace anchoring the room, wonderful natural lighting, and a tiled Juliet balcony with Marvin French doors overlooking the picturesque grounds
• Positioned to capture breathtaking views of the scenic backdrop, the formal dining room features coffered ceilings, built-in cabinetry, and windows overlooking the Bay
• Enveloped in natural light, the family room features custom built-in cabinetry and shelving, coffered ceilings, a wood-burning fireplace with stone surround, wainscotingpaneled walls, built-in bench seating, and large windows framing stunning views of Belvedere Cove, Corinthian Island, Angel Island, and the Bay
• This state-of-the-art chef’s kitchen boasts carefully selected Calacatta Oro marble countertops and backsplash, hardwood floors, a 10’6” x 3’4” center island, two pantries, extensive soft-close custom cabinetry, professional-grade stainless steel appliances, a breakfast area with Marvin glass folding doors that open to the view balcony, a private exterior entrance for kitchen staff and catering needs, and sweeping views of Belvedere Cove, Corinthian Island, Angel Island, and Raccoon Strait
• A grand staircase with detailed wainscoting-paneled walls ascends to the first upper level of the residence, featuring a luxurious primary suite, three comfortable bedrooms, a newly remodeled “Jack & Jill” full bathroom, and a laundry closet
• The top floor features two bedrooms, a bonus room/sitting area, an office area with a built-in desk, a full bathroom, and two large cedar closets
• The lower level of the residence features two ensuite bedrooms, an in-law unit/guest quarters, a laundry room, a wine cellar, a fitness room, sauna, a full bathroom, and multiple storage areas; a fabulous private office with beautiful millwork and a tiled balcony can be accessed from the exterior of the residence
• 2-car detached garage and adjacent covered carport
LOOKING BACK
Downtown Mill Valley in 1929
The Sequoia Theater–the one attraction that is still there BY
JIM WOOD
FOR DOWNTOWN MILL VALLEY,
1929 was a good and bad year. The bad was a disastrous fire that destroyed 117 homes and — but for a sudden wind shift — would have added downtown Mill Valley (pictured to the right) to its toll. As for the good, ’29 was the year the Sequoia Theater first opened. Prior to that, the Hub Theater at 142 Throckmorton Street, which had opened in the 1900s, was the town’s hot spot for silent films and vaudeville acts. But with Sequoia’s opening, the Hub was history. Mill Valley’s newest theater could seat 1,200 for “talkies” while still hosting vaudeville as a Wurlitzer organ pumped out rousing music. And directly across from the Sequoia, as the barely legible sign indicates,
was the PG&E office where theatergoers could pay their utility bills, while a few doors up Throckmorton they could step into a showroom and see the latest models Studebaker Motorcars had to offer.
Over the next 45 years, the neighbors changed, but the Sequoia remained. Then in 1975, bowing to trends, its owners “twinned” the theater, making two cinema screens out of the one. However, when they simultaneously sought to update the Sequoia’s exterior appearance, Mill Valley’s Architectural Advisory Committee said, “Hold on, not so fast, Art Deco is making a comeback.” Thus, from the street the theater looks much as it did 95 years ago. Then at the turn of the century (1900s to
2000s, that is) plush seats were installed and the theater-to-theater soundproofing was improved. In 2012, the San Rafael-based California Film Institute, organizers of the Mill Valley Film Festival, paid $2.5 million for the Sequoia and in 2022 announced plans to create a cinema and education center with four screens, an expanded lobby and a rooftop pavilion (exterior will remain as is). While that plan progresses, the newly named Sequoia Cinema will book community- and filmmaker-focused films similar to those at CFI’s flagship theater, the Smith San Rafael Film Center. Also, of course, it will host the 47th Annual Mill Valley Film Festival running this year from Oct. 3 to 13.
Life’s just better when we’re together.
In families, you work together to ensure every member is looked after, furry ones included. At Whittier Trust, we apply this same inclusive approach to ensure all your interests are protected. For each client, a diverse team of in-house and external experts is tailored to handle their family’s specific needs, no matter how unique.
SAM FRANCIS
An exceptional and unique body of work from the Sam Francis Foundation
Bay-Area born abstract expressionist painter Sam Francis (1923-1994) is regarded as one of the 20th century’s leading interpreters of light and color. During his lifetime Francis maintained studios in Bern, New York, Los Angeles, Paris, and Tokyo, making him the rst post WWII American painter whose reach was truly international. Sam Francis' works have been widely exhibited internationally for 75 years and his work is held in permanent collections of every encyclopedic modern art museum in the world.
Robert Green Fine Arts, established 1969, exhibits primarily painterly, abstract expressive work by painters that thoroughly take advantage of the sensually evocative nature of color and form.
