View From Marin

From left: Mimi Towle, Nikki Wood, Dan Jewett

While it might not be Southern California, the North has had its own influence on skateboarding — an influence that continues today with lots of shops, pros, newbies and skate parks.

MAY IS AN exciting time of year. Spring is in high gear and, here at Marin Magazine, we are proud to announce our cover contest winner and finalists. You’ve already seen the subtle surrealism of Jeff aust on the cover. Turn to Daniel Jewett’s story to learn more about the artist and his painting, meet our 12 finalists, and see their work.

Next up we put wheels to the ground and turn Rina Neiman loose investigating Marin’s skate culture. She finds that while it might not be Southern California, the North has had its own influence on skateboarding — an influence that continues today with lots of shops, pros, newbies and skate parks that help define a thriving local scene.

We wrap up features with summer safety tips for the kids and, in case this advice isn’t enough, offer a list of the best local pediatricians. We’ve also got ideas for helping those kids get a higher education without breaking the bank.

You’ll notice this month’s issue is a pretty big one. We invite you to peruse the inserted 2014 Marin Open Studios guide, which can be pulled out to take along to the annual May event. You’ll also see an increase in our real estate showcase section, with gorgeous samplings of amazing Marin properties. It’s a sure sign the economy and real estate market are healthy in the county.

Up front we tell you where to go to see wildflowers, celebrate Mother’s Day with gift ideas in Style, and meet Beach Blanket Babylon actress Shawna Ferris, the ladies of Laughing Glass Cocktails, Mill Valley’s own Larry the Hat and school fundraising maven Trisha Garlock.

In Destinations we take an agricultural tour of Oregon’s Fruit Loop, where more than 30 family-owned stands, farms and shops await. Next, it’s off o Oaxaca, where editorat-large Tim Porter brings his camera for a life-changing journey of photographic and personal discovery.

Enjoy the warm weather and our May issue, and be sure to check out all the open studios in May. Who knows? You may even meet next year’s cover contest winner.

Marin Magazine Staff Editors