stunning 4,007-square-foot home in the heart of Sleepy Hollow. Swimming pool, Sport Court, three-stall horse barn, pasture, lush lawn and well-water irrigation all add to the allure of this incredible property. Contact Nick to schedule a showing. $4,995,000
A highly personal, professional, and successful effort
We had a totally satisfying experience with the Bowman Real Estate Group in preparing and selling our residence in Larkspur this Summer. This was in a difficult seller’s environment due to the unaffordable mortgage interest rates. Jennifer, Elliot, Kris, and their support team executed a highly personal, professional and successful effort in getting top dollar for our residence. Our home needed a major transformation to be market right for today’s buyers. Bowman Real Estate group took care of every aspect in preparing our house for the market. They did it all and did it exceptionally well.
- Tom F.
The value of our business is measured in the quality of the relationships we build.
JESSICA CLINE
CO-FOUNDER, CEO jessica@marinlivingmagazine.com 707.302.0850
DINA GRANT CO-FOUNDER
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR dina@marinlivingmagazine.com 707.238.2030
ADVERTISING
Marketing Strategy Consultant & Wine Country Specialist Chet Klingensmith chet@marinlivingmagazine.com, 707.216.1780
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Marketing Strategy Consultant Kim McGinnis kim@marinlivingmagazine.com, 415.640.4504
Marketing Strategy Consultant & Local Business Specialist Carrie Moler carrie@marinlivingmagazine.com, 415.271.3080
Marketing Strategy Consultant Courtney Roberts courtney@marinlivingmagazine.com, 415.720.3752
By 2030, more than 9 million Californians will be over the age of 65.
At By the Bay Health, we’re working to ensure that everyone has equitable access to high quality, compassionate care at home when it’s needed most.
We believe that nonprofit community-based care must adequately support our rapidly aging and diverse Bay Area population.
To do that, we need innovative solutions to address the projected future shortage of healthcare workers and skilled caregivers that provide this critical care.
Help us ensure quality, exceptional care for everyone. Join us in developing the next-generation of healthcare workers, that will support you, and your families, for years to come.
Thanksgiving is a reflective time to appreciate all that we have in life. I am grateful to work and live in this beautiful county where we can walk out our door and find amazing natural beauty everywhere we go. I am grateful to have wonderful clients who are loyal and trusting. Your unwavering confidence in The Werner Group is the foundation to our continued success. I am also deeply appreciative of the support system around me, from my family to my team, who help make everything I do possible. I hope that you find much to be thankful for this holiday.
Happy Thanksgiving
from the
TEAM
RING IN THE HOLIDAY SEASON
WE WRAPPED UP the “official” schedule of 2024 Marin Living events last month with a delightful gathering at Molteni&C operated by Luminaire right in the heart of San Francisco’s Design District. The evening was electric with more than 60 designers, makers and architects getting to know one another and celebrating the vibrant industry that exists in the Bay Area. Some attendees even gave themselves the challenge of trying out each of the luxurious couches and chairs that graced the inviting space — no word yet if they completed the challenge. See images from the party on page 74 and learn about designing your very own custom Molteni&C chair on page 26.
With the holidays right around the corner, there are two things sure to be on everyone’s mind: gift giving and cocktails (not necessarily
in that order). For gift ideas, the team had a lot of fun tracking down unique items and experiences you might have never thought to add to your list — from a head-turning Dolce & Gabbana fridge to innovative bikes that you ride on the water, we’ve got details on products and experiences that will get noticed.
For holiday cocktails, like the one you undoubtedly saw on the cover, we went to the pros: the local bartenders who mix it up at your favorite Marin bars and restaurants. They share tempting and easyto-make recipes that range from the classic to the seasonal. Time to take out the festive glassware.
As the days get shorter and the end-of-year celebrations approach, we hope you enjoy this issue and have a great holiday season. Cheers!
The Marin Living magazine team
Katie Ravas for Drew Altizer Photography
The Molteni&C showroom operated by Luminaire
Cassie Zampa-Keim, CEO and founder
How should singles handle gift-giving during the holidays?
After more than three decades spent matchmaking and providing expert guidance on relationships, I have found that the best way singles can approach holiday gift-giving is to focus on thoughtful, personal gifts. Choose presents that reflect your partner’s interests, hobbies or needs.
How should you cater to your partner’s love language if you don’t know them well?
If you don’t know your partner’s love language just yet, consider gifts like a heartfelt, handwritten note, a small bouquet of flowers or making a meal together. These gestures show thoughtfulness and can appeal to most love languages. Be sure to use the time leading up to the holidays to also engage in conversation that will reveal more about your partner’s interests and preferences.
How do you communicate love during the holidays if your love language is not gift-giving?
In addition to choosing a gift for your partner, express love during the holidays through your primary love language. If yours is words of affirmation, offer genuine compliments or write a letter to them expressing your feelings. For quality time, plan special moments with your partner, like watching holiday movies or taking a walk together. If you speak your love through physical touch, demonstrate your affection with hugs, hand holding or cuddling.
What unique opportunities do the holidays hold for singles?
The holidays give singles time to focus on personal growth and strengthening relationships. Without the pressures of a romantic partner, singles can engage freely in self-care, honor timeless traditions and create special memories with friends and family. As the festivities unfold, so too will unexpected opportunities to discover romance.
spotlight marin.
IN LIVING COLOR
Young artists have a chance to show off their work again this year as the Bay Area Creative Foundation (www.bayareacreativefoundation.org) has opened up submissions for the 2025 Creative Youth Awards The awards are free to enter and are open to high school students in all nine Bay Area counties. Submissions in writing, dance, film, music, photography and visual art are welcome.
“Spiraling” by Isha G.
WINTER WONDERS
The highly anticipated Winter Open Studios (www.icbartists.com) returns to the historic ICB Building this December. The opening night preview takes place December 6, while December 7 and 8 offer plenty of hours to peruse the working studios and meet ICB artists.
ALL THAT JAZZ
The inaugural season of Marin Jazz (www.marinjazz.com) is in full swing, and there are still chances left to enjoy it this year. On November 23, vocalists Kim Nalley and Paula West, along with musical director Tammy Hall, come together for a tribute to Duke Ellington. Find the evening performance at the Marin Center Showcase Theater.
From top: courtesy of ICB; Wayne Saroyen
Work by artist Margot Hartford (left); vocalist Kim Nalley (below)
Local banking you can trust
Paula, Member since 2019
JOYFUL NOISE
There are plenty of reasons to go to San Francisco this month. The Legion of Honor kicks off its yearlong 100th anniversary celebration on November 9 (www.famsf.org). A variety of programs will take place throughout the day, including performances and the chance to take home limited-edition art. On November 13, the GLIDE Annual Holiday Jam: The Love Agenda (www.glide.org) takes place at the Masonic. A mix of legendary and emerging artists will perform during this night of music, dining and fundraising. Broadway smash Hamilton returns to the Orpheum Theatre November 27 and runs until January 5 (www.broadwaysf.com); with each performance there’s a limited lottery for $10 seats.
TOASTING THE FUTURE
Benovia Winery (www.benoviawinery.com) is producing a limited run of its 2022 Good Press Russian River Valley Pinot Noir . A portion of sale proceeds benefit The Press Democrat Journalism Trust (www.pdjt.org), which provides journalism scholarships and reporting resources in Wine Country and the North Bay.
Gary Sexton, courtesy of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco; Christopher Chung,
The Press Democra t
We
CULTURE IS KEY
FREE TO BE
The National Park Service proposal to remove a fence confining a herd of tule elk at Tomales Point has been approved by the California Coastal Commission (www.coastal.ca.gov). The plan is to remove the 2.2-mile fence at the 2,900-acre Elk Reserve on the peninsula, due to the assessment that the area lacks the ability to support the elk.
WHAT’S ON YOUR BALLOT
If you haven’t already, it’s time to get acquainted with the local measures on your ballot before Election Day (www.marinvotes.org).
SCHOOL MEASURES
• Measure AA asks for $159,000,000 in bonds to the Petaluma Joint Union High School District for construction, repair and replacement of school facilities.
• Measure B seeks funding for high-priority repairs and improvements in the Tamalpais Union High School District.
• Measure C is a special tax proposal to raise funds for Bolinas-Stinson Union School District’s salaries and various instructional programs.
• Measure E asks voters to keep Kentfield School District “safe, warm and dry” by making repairs and upgrades to safety systems.
• Measure G will, if passed, adopt a parcel tax for Sausalito Marin City School District to fund critical academic programs and attract and retain staff.
MUNICIPAL MEASURES
• Measure H asks voters to decide if the Fairfax Town Clerk should be appointed or remain an elected position.
• Measure I, if approved, would repeal and replace Fairfax’s rent control and eviction ordinances.
• Measure J is a bond measure to fund repairs of Fairfax’s infrastructure.
• Measure K requires majority voter approval to limit rent increases and evictions of tenants of some rental units in Larkspur.
• Measure L asks voters to enact a one-cent sales tax in Mill Valley to provide funding for city services and facilities.
• Measure M, if passed, would establish a ¾ cent sales tax in Novato for general use.
• Measure N asks voters if they want to establish limits on annual rent increases for some residential rental properties in San Anselmo.
• Measure O, if approved, would enact an ordinance establishing just cause eviction restrictions and tenant protections for some residential rental properties in San Anselmo.
• Measure P proposes a parcel tax to fund the construction of a new main library and community center and make repairs to existing libraries in San Rafael.
• Measure Q seeks to continue funding the Stinson Beach Fire Protection District and Measure R proposes a special tax for fire and emergency services in the same area.
DISCOVER. NURTURE. CHALLENGE.
CONSERVATION UPDATES
In keeping with the county’s robust conservation history, preservation of natural landscapes continues to be a popular idea in Marin. Save the Redwoods League (www.savetheredwoods.org) recently announced a $15 million deal to purchase 1,624 acres of redwoods and coastal meadows near Fort Ross State Historic Park. This move would expand the protected lands around the site by 50 percent. Open space advocates have worked with the town of Fairfax to complete the purchase of the 100-acre Wall property (www.marinopenspace trust.org). Some in the community are resistant to the idea, preferring the land be used to address a housing shortage. The Martha Co. property in Tiburon is now officially open to the public after the Marin County Open Space District (www.marincountyparks.org) closed escrow on its $42.1 million purchase of the popular hiking spot. Funding came from bonds, individuals, community foundations and Tiburon and Belvedere.
NEW CONNECTIONS
Residents in West Marin and Novato are gaining access to broadband internet service through fiber-optic cable, made possible by state and federal grants. “Through Marin’s collaborative approach to planning, 800 additional residences will now gain broadband internet access thanks to partnerships with EntryPoint Networks in West Marin and Comcast in Novato,” says Liza Massey, chief information officer at the county’s Department of Information Services and Technology.
Jocelyn Knight Photography
FANCY FOOTWORK
One of San Francisco’s most popular holiday traditions returns when the Safeway Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square opens for the season on November 6 (www.unionsquareicerink.com). The festive installation, presented by Kaiser Permanente, features special events like Silent Skate night and free lessons for registered participants on weekend mornings.
the LIST
1
A look at special offers and new products from some of Marin’s favorite businesses.
By Caitlin Hamer
KITCHENS
INSIDE & OUT
Remodeling doesn’t have to be a stress-inducing process, and Kitchens Inside & Out is ready to prove that to you. The mother-daughter-led studio recently launched a flat-fee model where clients pay a designated design fee based on the type of room being renovated. Say goodbye to hourly fees and say hello to your dream home. www.kitchensinsideout.com
2
MARIN ALLIANCE
If you’re overwhelmed by the fact that Marin Alliance has one of the largest inventories in the Bay Area for medical marijuana patients, don’t be; the trained staff there can help guide you to an ideal remedy. And do some research on the founder, Lynnette Shaw, as her history as an advocate for the cannabis industry is impressive. www.marincbc.com
3
CINELOUNGE
The moviegoing experience has reached the next level at Cinelounge in Tiburon. The theater teamed up with Tony’s Pizza Napoletana and The Caviar Co. to offer elevated bites you won’t find at other places; plus, the team is planning themed events to coincide with the release of Wicked. Pro tip for parents: don’t miss the “Bluey & Me” screenings every Tuesday. www.cineloungefilm.com
Images courtesy of the brands (top, bottom);
Dave Zahrobsky for Drew Altizer
Photography (middle)
sip sustainably
What makes our eco-friendly wines the perfect holiday gift? At Benziger, our wines are crafted with a commitment to sustainable, organic, and Biodynamic farming practices. This ethical approach nurtures our Sonoma County vineyards and creates world-class wines free from herbicides and harmful pesticides. This holiday season, share the gift of exceptional taste and sustainability. Whether it’s for family, friends, or colleagues, our wines are a thoughtful way to celebrate the season with a gift that’s as good for the earth as it is for the palate.
What makes our eco-friendly wines the perfect holiday gift? At Benziger, our wines are crafted with a commitment to sustainable, organic, and Biodynamic farming practices. This ethical approach nurtures our Sonoma County vineyards and creates world-class wines free from herbicides and harmful pesticides. This holiday season, share the gift of exceptional taste and sustainability. Whether it’s for family, friends, or colleagues, our wines are a thoughtful way to celebrate the season with a gift that’s as good for the earth as it is for the palate.
ENJOY $1 SHIPPING THIS SEASON
ENJOY $1 SHIPPING THIS SEASON
USE CODE: MARIN
OFFER EXPIRES DECEMBER 31, 2024. CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH OTHER OFFERS, DISCOUNTS, OR APPLIED TO PREVIOUS
WINE
USE CODE: MARIN
NO
TAKE A SEAT
The iconic D.154.2 armchair, designed by Gio Ponti, has been honored with the ADI Compasso d’Oro Career Award, and now you can design your own courtesy of the San Francisco–based Molteni&C showroom, operated by Luminaire.
By Cassandra McDougall
THE GIO PONTI–DESIGNED D.154.2 ARMCHAIR is almost as iconic as the Italian designer himself. It was created in 1954 for his beloved Villa Planchart in Caracas, a place designed to represent the culmination of his Italian sensibilities and his Venezuelan surroundings. Ponti said, “I dedicated myself heart and soul to designing Villa Planchart, and in it I was at liberty to express my own approach to architecture, both outside and inside.” To celebrate the chair receiving the esteemed ADI Compasso d’Oro Career Award, Molteni&C (www.molteni.it) has created two exclusive D.154.2 armchairs in the colors Ponti used when designing Villa Planchart in the 1950s, sand and green. And now you can own your own piece of design history. Stop into the Molteni&C showroom operated by Luminaire (www.luminaire.com) in San Francisco to experience the magic of the D.154.2 chair in person. 128 Utah Street, San Francisco
july/august 2024 marin living.
november 2024 marin living.
Courtesy of Molteni&C
NBCC’s new Novato childcare campus is in the final stages of construction and scheduled to open Spring
A CONVERSATION WITH GIO PONTI ARCHIVES DIRECTOR SALVATORE LICITRA
How would you describe the D.154.2 armchair in your own words?
This armchair does not fit into traditional armchair structures but is a poetic homage by Gio Ponti to the beauty of the tropical flora that animated the gardens of Villa Planchart, Caracas. It takes inspiration from the forms of a flower, offering a soft and welcoming interior. Its shape stands out from traditional furnishings and simultaneously embodies Ponti’s idea of furniture as sculpture.
How does the D.154.2 chair epitomize the Molteni&C brand and the design vision of Gio Ponti?
This chair/sculpture expresses the spirit of Molteni&C in not limiting itself to simple furniture production, but also showcasing Ponti’s most special and poetic projects, which were produced in limited quantities for special occasions. These pieces are particularly significant in Ponti’s poetic vision.
How does the current chair differ from the original?
The research conducted by Molteni has been very deep, with the aim of reproducing the model as accurately as possible, while adopting technologies that were unimaginable at the time of the original.
Why is it such an honor to receive the Compasso d’Oro Award?
The Compasso d’Oro is a very important recognition that indicates how a project has anticipated forms and concepts that are only now being explored. One could say that the D.154.2 has foreshadowed by half a century a new concept of furniture and design for the industry.
How would you describe the Molteni&C aesthetic?
Molteni&C creates environments suitable for modern and contemporary life, and Ponti’s projects, with their promotion of a modern lifestyle, are a significant part of that.
What is your favorite piece from the current collection?
My favorites are indeed the D.154.2 and D.157.6, both poetically dedicated to the tropical flora of Venezuela, imagined in complete design freedom without market or industrial constraints.
As the archive director, what do you see as most exciting part of your job?
I enjoy making the poetic nature of Gio Ponti’s work perceptible, for example by juxtaposing his architectural works with his various expressions in art and design.
It takes inspiration from the forms of a flower, offering a soft and welcoming interior.”
The D.154.2 armchair has been awarded the ADI Compasso d’Oro Career Award for products
Courtesy of Molteni&C
This Holiday Season Find Comfort and Joy at The Bluffs at Hamilton Hill
As
This Holiday Season Find Comfort and Joy at The Bluffs at Hamilton Hill
This Holiday Season Find Comfort and Joy at The Bluffs at Hamilton Hill
From
As the holiday season approaches, there’s no better place to nd warmth, comfort, and a true sense of community than The Blu s at Hamilton Hill. Whether you’re looking for a supportive environment or a place where you can enjoy the festive spirit, we’re here to make this season special.
As the holiday season approaches, there’s no better place to nd warmth, comfort, and a true sense of community than The Blu s at Hamilton Hill. Whether you’re looking for a supportive environment or a place where you can enjoy the festive spirit, we’re here to make this season special.
decorated common areas to delightful holiday events and delicious seasonal meals, The Blu s at Hamilton Hill is where cherished memories are made. Join us and discover a vibrant community where your well-being is our priority.
From beautifully decorated common areas to delightful holiday events and delicious seasonal meals, The Blu s at Hamilton Hill is where cherished memories are made. Join us and discover a vibrant community where your well-being is our priority.
From beautifully decorated common areas to delightful holiday events and delicious seasonal meals, The Blu s at Hamilton Hill is where cherished memories are made. Join us and discover a vibrant community where your well-being is our priority.
Schedule a tour today and see how The Blu s at Hamilton
Schedule a tour today and see how The Blu s at Hamilton Hill can make this holiday season your best one yet!
Schedule a tour today and see how The Blu s at Hamilton Hill can make this holiday season your best one yet!
Take advantage of our Spring specials! Call to schedule a tour today 415-889-2973 or email us at Blu satHamiltonHill@mbk.com Blu satHamiltonHill.com
PAYING IT FORWARD
How one young cook’s legacy is helping the next generation of aspiring culinary artists.
By Caitlin Hamer
PRIOR TO ITS DESTRUCTION in the 2020 Glass Fire, the Michelin-starred Restaurant at Meadowood was bustling with an array of talented culinary professionals. One such individual was Cameron Thompson, a young Black line cook from Los Angeles who tragically passed in a car accident in 2019. Today, Thompson’s legacy lives on through a scholarship foundation established by his mother, Tracie Thompson, and by Christopher and Martina Kostow, founders of the popular Loveski Deli (www.teamkostow.com). Created in partnership with
the Culinary Institute of America (CIA), the scholarship is helping pave the way for a more diverse future in the restaurant and hospitality industry, offering more Black culinary students access to professional training and increasing the chances of working at the Michelin level.
“I always told Cameron that it’s important to see yourself in the role you want, and our young people don’t see a lot of Black chefs excelling at that level,” says Tracie. “But I told him, you could always be the first. Why not you?”
Kelly
Puleio
Chef Kostow at Charter
Oak’s hearth
While Cameron’s own journey did not take him through the CIA (www.ciachef.edu), the school was chosen for the scholarship as it is widely recognized as the world’s premier culinary college. But for many, it’s cost prohibitive and therefore inaccessible, putting numerous aspiring chefs at a disadvantage right from the start.
“In all my years as a chef and being in the position to hire people, I could count on one hand the number of African American applicants I’d see,” says Christopher
Without the legacy scholarship, I wouldn’t have finished my second semester of culinary school.”
Kostow, who was executive chef at Meadowood while Thompson was there. “And there’s a lot of barriers to entry, one of which is the expense of culinary school, the other being the ability to take jobs based on where you’d learn the most versus where you’ll be paid enough to live.”
That’s where the Cameron Thompson Legacy Scholarship comes in. Not only does it cover full tuition and room and board for students pursuing the college’s 18-month associate degree program, it also provides assistance with externship placement as well as access to a mentorship group, giving students the chance to engage with prominent Black chefs like Marcus Samuelsson and Nina Compton.
“Without the legacy scholarship, I wouldn’t have finished my second semester of culinary school,” says Devon Henderson, who prior to receiving the scholarship was working two jobs, going to school and delivering food to make ends meet. “The scholarship alleviated the stress of not having enough to pay for everything, and certainly allowed me to focus more on my schoolwork.” He obtained his degree from the CIA in San Antonio in 2023 and has now completed stages (trial shifts in professional kitchens) at The French Laundry, Che Fico and Kiln.
The scholarships will be offered in perpetuity, and their ongoing existence is made possible by donations, as well as significant support from fundraising events and generous benefactors. And at Chef Kostow’s Charter Oak restaurant, a portion of proceeds from the seasonal Yurt reservations go toward the scholarship.
“We’ve been very lucky in our position and have enjoyed a good deal of success,” says Kostow. “And I think that when people work for you, you’re kind of responsible for them in some fashion.”
Tracie raised Cameron to give back, making this scholarship a fitting way to honor him. “It’s so important to reach back and pull someone else up, to give someone the education and connections to strive to work on that kind of level,” she says.
A DAY OUT (EATING) AT THE SAN FRANCISCO FERRY BUILDING
There is an international food renaissance happening in S.F.’s iconic ferry building right now. Take the ferry from Sausalito, Larkspur or Tiburon and enjoy a daycation enjoying notable Bay Area sights — Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, Angel Island — before you disembark into a food lover’s paradise. A Saturday trip will coincide with the popular farmers market (and the crowds that accompany it), but the hustle and bustle only add to the global-inspired charm. From Filipino and Middle Eastern street food to Jamaican patties and Argentinean empanadas, it is hard to choose just one type of fare — but who says you have to? Here are a few of our favorites.
By Casey Gillespie
A16 LA PALA
With two other locations — one in S.F. and one in Oakland — this more cafe-style venue is equally as delicious. Named after the autostrada that runs from Puglia to Naples, it serves food inspired by the cuisine of Southern Italy. Think Naples-style pizza, focaccia-based panini, meatballs and, of course, lasagna.
CHOLITA LINDA
Whether you are craving Baja-style tacos, a Cubano sandwich or chips and guac, this is your spot. We love that everything is made from scratch and with a distinct Latin flair (the chef/owner is Peruvian but her food benefits from a well-traveled upbringing). Don’t forget to grab an agua fresca; no matter the flavor, they are so, so refreshing.
DELICA
At this deli, sozai — a Japanese way of eating with lots of small bites — is the name of the game. Choose from a bento box with the day’s assortment, à la carte items or one of the delectable salads. And if you are sharing, might as well grab some salmon spring rolls and Kobe-style croquettes. Everything is freshly made and organic, and you just can’t go wrong.
EL PORTEÑO EMPANADAS
You will be lured to this Argentinean empanada shop by the mouthwatering aroma of flaky, buttery pastry as soon you pass through the ferry building doors, but what is wrong with a little nibble while you decide where to dine? Owner Joseph Ahearne borrowed the pastry recipe from his grandmother and uses only the best local ingredients — we recommend the Pollo, stuffed with Fulton Valley chicken, chicken chorizo, raisins and olives.
GRANDE CRÊPERIE
If you love Le Marais Bakery (and who doesn’t?) then you are going to fall for this charming cafe from the same owners. Naturally leavened-style crêpes, the foundation of casual French cuisine, are at the core of the menu. But if a croissant has been calling your name, rest assured you will find the best ones here.
IMPERIAL TEA COURT
Come for the tea, stay for the hand-stretched noodles. An institution in its own right, this traditional Chinese tea shop and salon will instantly transport you. Choose from more than 100 different types of teas (you can even buy in bulk) and then sit and enjoy while taking in the beauty of your surroundings.
LUNETTE CAMBODIA
One of the Ferry Building’s newest additions, this bustling cafe brings Cambodian gastronomy and culture to a hungry San Francisco crowd. Expect a focus on noodle, rice and vegetable-heavy dishes with a perfectly balanced mix of herbs and spices. Pair with sake or a beer and enjoy the unfussy vibe.
PEACHES PATTIES
Homemade Jamaican patties paired with plantains, rice and beans — yes, please. Looking for something more substantial? Try the jerk chicken or the Rasta Stew meal (a magical vegan mix of black beans, chickpeas, onion, garlic, tomatoes and spices). And don’t forget to order a sorrel, a lightly sweetened Jamaican hibiscus tea.
REEM’S
Fashioned after the corner bakeries in Arab countries, this is quintessential street food at its best. Chef and activist Reem Assil has created a menu of classic dishes, including a selection of mouthwatering mezzes, classic and California-inspired wraps, and seasonal flatbreads that are almost too delicious. Grab a halawa cookie, made with TCHO Chocolate and tahini, for the ferry ride home.
BUILDING THE BRIDGE
A new nonfiction children’s book allows kids to imagine what it was like to witness the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge
By Daniel Jewett
BORN IN BERKELEY, Elizabeth Partridge has seen the Golden Gate Bridge her entire life. But it wasn’t until she was asked to write a children’s book about it — Golden Gate: Building the Mighty Bridge (Chronicle Books) — that she began to appreciate it in a new way.
“I had kind of taken it for granted. I walk up in the hills with my dog and I see the bridge every day and it’s just another part of my world,” the author says. “But when I started really thinking about it, I was like, ‘Oh, this is so cool.’ ”
She says her family has a connection to the iconic structure as her godmother, well-known photographer Dorothea Lange (she took the famous “Migrant Mother” photo in 1936), was in a group that helped architect Irving Morrow decide on the paint color and that her dad was in the caravan that drove across the bridge on its second opening day. When it came to the famous International Orange color the group encouraged Morrow to choose, Partridge says that he “didn’t want a plain old gray bridge. He wanted something with more energy to it.”
Golden Gate
Building the Mighty Bridge by Elizabeth Partridge, illustrations by Ellen Heck, published 2024 by Chronicle Books
THE MODERN REVERSE MORTGAGE
After agreeing to author the book, which came out this month, Partridge knew she wanted to write about how the bridge was built and about the guys who did the work. “I love guys who are in the trades,” she says. “People don’t tend to value construction workers, ironworkers, electricians, but they are a bunch of the coolest people.” Regarding the point of view, she knew it had to be from the kids’ perspective, and a bit of real-life history gave her the perfect opportunity to achieve that.
Partridge discovered that in the early 1930s there were two families with children living at the Lime Point Lighthouse, which was located down a steep cliff on the northern side of the narrowest part of the Golden Gate strait, and that got her thinking. “What if I make this relevant to kids by telling it from their point of view?” she says, adding that she made the unusual
narrative choice of writing about them in little-used second person. “Imagine having that front row seat and watching the Golden Gate Bridge get built? It gave me goose bumps to think about it.”
When it came to the research — the favorite part for this self-proclaimed “archive rat” — access to the UC Berkeley library made it that much easier to find nuggets like the interesting names of some of the workers: Smitty and Peanut were two that left an impression as ones that she thought kids might enjoy. “You have to make it interesting. When you are writing nonfiction nothing’s more deadly than to step out of what you’re doing to put a paragraph of explanation in there,” she says. “You make it visceral. Like writing about those camps of guys underneath the bridge waiting for a chance to work, and the smell of the beans they were cooking wafting up
What if I make this relevant to kids by telling it from their point of view? ... You have to make it interesting.”
to the workers. That’s a really cool, weird little factoid.”
As for how her test audience — her grandchildren and their friends — reacted to the book, Partridge says reviews have been positive. “It’s fun to give a kid a book and see if their attention wanders or not,” she says, adding that the illustrations by Ellen Heck help draw readers in. “So far, it appears to be a real page-turner.”
Golden Gate
Building the Mighty Bridge by Elizabeth Partridge, illustrations by Ellen Heck, published
2024 by Chronicle Books
WIN THE TRASH RUN
Ridwell comes to Marin and will pick up your hard-torecycle items right at your house.
By Annie Gieser
MULTIPLE COLORED BINS at the end of our driveways are typically home to an island of proverbial misfit toys. How do you know if you’re putting the right recyclables in the right bin? And even if you do, will they actually be properly recycled?
Ridwell CEO and co-founder Ryan Metzger and his son Owen pondered this when trying to toss dead batteries: if not in the bin, then where do they go? After tracking down a safe disposal location, father and son filled any extra vehicle during their runs with recyclables they helpfully picked up from neighbors. Owen’s List, as it was then known, became a weekend pickup program spanning 28 categories with 1,200 good Samaritans in Seattle, recycling everything from batteries to Styrofoam to light bulbs.
“Today, we’ve grown to over 100,000 members in seven states and saved 23 million pounds of waste from the landfill,” says Gerrine Pan,
VP of partnerships of Ridwell (www. ridwell.com) — the organization sprouted from Owen’s List that just launched in Marin a few months ago.
Ridwell is Owen’s weekend trash run to the max: the monthly subscription service picks up recyclable and reusable goods at your house that aren’t easy to dispose of. No one wants their goods to end up in a landfill (even though an estimated 55 percent of them make their way there anyway), but finding the proper place to recycle takes time and energy that not everyone has.
Ridwell picks up multilayer plastic, plastic film, batteries, light bulbs and more household goods straight from your doorstep — a service that Marinites have wanted for a while.
“Something we see in the Bay Area, and very strongly in Marin, is a culture of appreciating nature and of being mindful stewards of the earth. That’s what makes Marin so ideal for the Ridwell service,” Pan says, noting that Marin has been one of the company’s most successful launches to date,
garnering more than 1,000 members in just the first two months following service expansion to the area.
To give back to the community and create a more holistic impact, Ridwell also partners with local nonprofits in each city it serves. Since starting in Marin, the team has worked with Make It Home in San Rafael to provide furnishing and household goods to folks transitioning out of crisis. The team is currently collecting art supplies for SCRAP SF, pantry supplies for the Berkeley Food Network and food for the East Oakland Collective. All supplies are picked up from member front porches and donated where they’re more needed.
These efforts are just the beginning.
“We are in eight major cities today. We would love to see Ridwell in every major city in the U.S. with millions of members wasting less every day,” says Pan. “Our vision is to educate communities and change consumer behavior, one member, one household, one neighborhood, one community at a time.”
Gerrine Pan
Enjoy the wonder of Marin Ballet’s Nutcracker on December 7 and 8
Clara’s Christmas eve dreams come to life in this sumptuous performance with 125 dancers in exquisite Victorian costumes, surrounded by
By Marin Living Editors
THAT KEEP ON GIVING GIFTS
BRINGING HOLIDAY CHEER TO YOUR NEAREST AND DEAREST THIS HOLIDAY SEASON AND BEYOND.
Joseph Weaver for the Caviar Co.
BLISSFUL BITES 1
The deliciously indulgent caviar tea service at The Caviar Co.’s Tiburon Champagne Lounge is a gift steeped in luxury. Available Wednesdays through Sundays throughout November and December, the experience is an extravagant twist on traditional afternoon tea. Offerings include spiced spritz, your choice of tea, elegant sweets and a variety of savory bites topped by caviars from around the world. If your loved ones can’t make it, let them shop their favorite caviar anytime with a gift card. www.thecaviarco. com, $120 a person
2
A PLACE FOR GROWTH
There is really no other place like The Portal in Marin, and the elegant Asian-inspired decor with vibrant reds and golds immediately communicates what this wellness/ community/networking center is all about. Dive in to be inspired by other members, experience a range of yoga classes or become your best self with the spot’s biohacking tools, which include a sauna and cold spa, hyperbaric oxygen chamber, Shiftwave and Flowpresso, lymphatic massage roll shapers, even an Osaki 4D Massage Chair. Get a membership for yourself or a gift a family member and watch her flourish. www.theportal.house, memberships start at $350 per month
AWEINSPIRING ACCESSORIES 3
Harwell Godfrey’s jewelry is handcrafted with healing energy in mind, and its aesthetic roots in the ancient textiles and patterns of the African diaspora make any piece the ultimate statement. The hand-knotted Pearl and Rainbow Bead Foundation Clasp Necklace is stunning on its own, featuring a colorful variety of hand-chosen stone beads. But for an especially outstanding look, pair it with the 18k Evil Eye Major Pendant in emerald, onyx and ethically sourced diamonds. www. harwellgodfrey.com, Pearl and Rainbow Bead Foundation Clasp Necklace, $2,950, Evil Eye Major Pendant, contact for pricing
WHAT A DOLL
In the ramp-up to 2023’s Barbie, the movie about the ubiquitous Mattel doll, producer and star Margot Robbie and her stylist Andrew Mukamal detailed some of Barbie’s most popular outfits, then approached designers, from Giorgio Armani to Donatella Versace, to interpret the doll-size looks for Robbie. But with the press tour cut short, many of the outfits were never seen. For BARBIE: THE WORLD TOUR, the team worked with fashion photographer Craig McDean to shoot the star in those exact looks — it’s sure to be a collector’s item for those who can’t get enough Barbie. www.rizzoliusa.com, $55
KEEP YOUR COOL
SMEG, the Italian brand with the memorable name and a lineup of oh-so-cool retro-inspired appliances designed in collaboration with top architects and designers, has a new minifridge created with a little help from Dolce & Gabbana. The Sicily Is My Love collection features reproductions of original paintings by skilled artists. The vibrant patterns ensure you will have the coolest fridge in town. www.williams-sonoma.com, $5,499.95
GONE FISHING
Explore new depths of the bay in a hands-on experience that can be fun for the whole family. Gatherer Outfitters offers a variety of fishing trips out of the Berkeley Marina, from private charters to group outings, and there are even excursions exclusively for women. All trips include all gear, tackle, bait, weights and professional filleting of your catch to take home. No prior experience is required, just a one-day California fishing license and an appetite for adventure (and halibut). www.gathereroutfitters.com, starting at $200
Opposite, from left: courtesy of Williams Sonoma; www.stock.adobe.com/Achiraya. This page: courtesy of Schiller Bikes
Do you find yourself asking if you should ride your bike or go out on the water on weekends? The Schiller Bike, designed and tested right here in Sausalito by company CEO and co-founder Jessica Schiller, allows you to do both. The light and easily assembled aquatic bike has a top speed of 10 to 11 mph, allows you to pedal across the water and is great for cardio workouts. Enjoy free shipping through December 31. www.schillerbikes.com, $4,995
A TRANQUIL STAY
Indeed, some good things came out of the pandemic. One example is located just a short drive north in West Sonoma County. It was there that Emily Glick took over the shuttered and dormant Applewood Inn and used the pandemic downtime to transform it into a 21-room luxury boutique hotel called The Stavrand Russian River Valley. Email hosts@thestavrand. com a copy of your confirmation and mention Marin Living for a complimentary bottle of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir upon arrival and, if you book a weeknight stay (Sun.–Thurs.), priority for a complimentary room upgrade. www.thestavrand.com, from $395 a night (all accommodations include parking and breakfast)
TIME FOR WINE
Here are our top picks for classic wines that won’t disappoint, whether you are serving them at your own holiday get-together or bringing them to someone else’s.
1. STAG’S LEAP WINE CELLARS’ ARTEMIS GIFT OF LEGEND
This cabernet sauvignon offers lush fruit flavors balanced by a refined structure and elegance done in Stag’s Leap’s signature style. The limited-quantity gift box includes a commemorative token redeemable at the winery for a custom experience not available to the general public. www. stagsleapwinecellars.com, $125
2. FRANK FAMILY VINEYARDS CARNEROS CHARDONNAY
Brimming with bright, fresh citrus notes, the cool-climate
bottling plays up the notes of Meyer lemon and yellow apple. This is a household favorite and also a very popular restaurant wine — perfect for any occasion. Find it at Mill Valley Market, $40
3.
SULLIVAN
RUTHERFORD
ESTATE 2021 COEUR DE VIGNE CABERNET SAUVIGNON
Late spring rains made this vintage a true classic Napa Valley cabernet sauvignon boasting mouthwatering dark blue and black fruit flavors with integrated tannins and singing acidity. Find it at Ludwig’s Fine Wine (San Anselmo), $100
4. 2023 GAMBLE FAMILY VINEYARDS GAMBLE VINEYARD SAUVIGNON BLANC
Hand selected by the winemaker, this sauvignon blanc features a mix of fruit from two clones originating from the Loire region and two clones originating from Bordeaux. Find it at Bottle Barn (Santa Rosa), $55
5. BERINGER VINEYARDS 2020 PRIVATE RESERVE NAPA VALLEY CABERNET SAUVIGNON
The pinnacle of Beringer’s portfolio, this expressive and layered cabernet features fragrant perfumed floral aromas alongside red and dark berry fruits. www.beringer.com, $175
Editors
Living
By Marin
SIPPING SPIRITED
For all your holiday hosting needs, we’ve compiled a list of cocktail recipes from locally loved bars and restaurants that you can make at home, ranging from timeless classics to seasonal tipples.
by
Photography
Lorena Masso
POMEGRANATE MARGARITA
Copita, Sausalito
DIRECTIONS
Add all ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake and strain into a rocks glass with a half salt rim. Garnish with a lime wheel and a small spoonful of pomegranate seeds rested on top of the wheel.
INGREDIENTS
• 2 ounces Herradura
Blanco Tequila
• 1 ounce fresh lime juice
• 1 ounce POM Wonderful
Pomegranate Juice
• ¼ ounce agave
• ¼ ounce Grand Marnier
• ¼ ounce Giffard
Grenadine Syrup
• 1 lime wheel
• Salt
• Pomegranate seeds
MOJITO
Corner Bar, Mill Valley
DIRECTIONS
To make mint simple syrup, combine 2 cups of water and 1½ cups of sugar in a saucepan. Stir and bring to a boil until sugar dissolves. Add 20 to 25 mint leaves and steep until cool.
For the drink, start with 12 to 15 fresh mint leaves, with no stems, as they become bitter when muddled. In a 12-ounce glass, gently muddle the mint leaves. Do not pummel the leaves, as this will also cause bitterness; just press the leaves to release the oils. Add in the rum, lime juice, syrup and ice. Top with soda and stir to blend. Garnish with a mint bouquet.
INGREDIENTS
• 2 ounces Ron Matusalem Platino Silver rum
• 1 ounce fresh lime juice
• ¾ ounce mint-infused simple syrup
• 4 ounces club soda
• 1 bunch fresh mint leaves
44 MANHATTAN
Bungalow 44, Mill Valley
INGREDIENTS
• 1 ounce Eagle Rare 10 Year bourbon
• 1 ounce Sazerac Rye
• ½ ounce Carpano Punt e Mes
• ½ ounce Lo-Fi Aperitifs Sweet Vermouth
• 4 dashes Angostura bitters
• 2 griottines cherries
DIRECTIONS
Stir 20 to 25 times in a mixing glass with ice, strain and serve up in a martini glass. Serve with 2 griottines cherries on a stick.
FALL PEAR MULE
INGREDIENTS
• 1 ounce St. George Spiced Pear Liqueur
• 1 ounce vodka of choice
• ½ ounce fresh lime juice
• 3 ounces ginger beer
• 1 fresh pear slice
• 1 lime wheel
• fresh mint
DIRECTIONS
Add all ingredients to your glass over ice and stir lightly. Add garnishes to finish. For extra flair, drink can be served in enamelware or classic copper vessels.
SILENT NIGHT
Floodwater, Mill Valley
INGREDIENTS
• ¾ ounce fresh lime juice
• ¾ ounce Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur
• ¾ ounce gin of choice
• ¾ ounce Green Chartreuse
• fresh cranberries
DIRECTIONS
Combine all ingredients in a shaker, add ice and shake well.
Strain into a coupe glass and add cranberries (either on a toothpick or floating on top) to garnish.
Health, Wellness + Beauty Innovators
Marin Living recognizes the foremost innovators in health, wellness and beauty across the Bay Area. Get an exclusive glimpse into the businesses and individuals who are making a significant impact locally and shaping these fields with cuttingedge practices, treatments and products. We’re honored to spotlight these industry leaders.
DR. LISA BRENT, ND, LAC // BE WELL NATURAL MEDICINE
Rewrite the narrative of how to care for yourself and thrive.
What is it about your business that makes it a visionary in the field?
Be Well offers personalized, integrative care that addresses the whole person — body, mind and spirit. In a time when health care is increasingly difficult to find, we bring accessible naturopathic and integrative medicine to the women and men in our community. Our vision is to empower our patients to rewrite the narrative of
how we care for ourselves, with a focus on quality of life, especially as we age.
What is unique about how you service your patients?
Currently, we have three naturopathic doctors, an osteopathic manual therapist, an endocrinologist and a holistic health coach on staff. We have a full service IV nutrient lounge and on-site lab staffed by two amazing nurses. Because we operate outside of the managed-care model, we are able to offer our patients the time and attention they need to thrive.
What new services do you specialize in that address current times?
In response to growing healthcare challenges, we’ve expanded the size of our center as well as our hours and our services to include specialized care for people who are looking for effective tools to balance hormones, lose weight, support immune function, recover from chronic conditions and enhance mindbody wellness. We are also experts in the treatment of women in the perimenopause and menopause transitions using naturopathic treatments and bio-identical hormone therapy safely and effectively. BE
415.569.4470
www.bewellnaturalmedicine.net
TRENT DOUGLAS, MD, FACS // AESTHETX MARIN
The most advanced aesthetic medicine practice can be found right here in Marin.
What is it about your business that makes you a wellness and beauty expert?
Aesthetx is an integrated plastic surgery, dermatology and aesthetic medicine practice. Our focus is on executing medical procedures with the highest trained providers and state of the art technology and services.
You have people flying into Marin from all over the country to see you. Can you touch on why people are specifically coming to Aesthetx?
Because our plastic surgeons, Dr. Trent Douglas and Dr. Kamakshi Zeidler, are at the cutting edge of innovative surgical techniques and we have access to the latest products as soon as they hit the market. Like many practices with key opinion leaders, we have surgeons who fly in to learn our unique techniques, attracting patients from all over the country.
How are you disrupting your industry and thinking outside the box?
As a leader in the field, Dr. Trent Douglas is one of the first plastic surgeons in the San Francisco Bay Area with access to the next
generation of breast implants. Motiva implants were just approved in the U.S. in the most rigorous breast implant clinical trial ever performed under FDA guidelines and have less than 1 percent complication rate.
What do you want people to know about your business?
Aesthetx is opening a new location at 300 Drake’s Landing (rendering above) that will be the hub of innovation in plastic surgery, regenerative aesthetics and highly customized aesthetic services from facial balancing to weight loss. This high-end practice will be throwing an exclusive opening event for the elite community of Marin in January of 2025.
AESTHETX MARIN
599 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, Ste. 206, Greenbrae, CA 94904 415.980.6414
Achieve your goals using noninvasive or minimally invasive treatments.
What sets you apart in the industry?
At Belle Marin Aesthetic Medicine, we marry medical expertise with artistic precision to deliver natural-looking results. Our founder, Dr. Jamali, brings her many years of experience as a physician and her keen artistic eye to thoroughly address each patient’s concerns. The experience at Belle Marin is completely personalized to one’s individual goals.
Why is now the best time to focus on health, wellness and beauty?
There has never been a better time to prioritize health, wellness and beauty as the ever-evolving aesthetic industry continues to expand. At Belle Marin, we offer cutting-edge technologies including state-of-the-art lasers, exosome therapy, medically assisted weight loss, and more. Our services can not only enhance your appearance but can actually improve your overall skin health and physical well-being.
Does your business have a unique history in the Bay Area?
At Belle Marin, we’ve become known in the Bay Area for providing aesthetic medicine with a touch of luxury. With a deep appreciation of art and aesthetics, we have built a reputation for offering personalized, high-end care while staying committed to innovation in this field.
What new innovations do you offer?
We are proud to offer several innovative treatments, including the Aviclear laser — just FDA approved in 2022 for drug-free acne management. We also provide muscle-stimulating treatments with CoolTone and truFlex. These devices can not only sculpt and tone the body, but even help with rehabilitation from injuries.
BELLE MARIN AESTHETIC MEDICINE
250 E. Blithedale Avenue, Ste. B, Mill Valley, CA 94941
DR. WILL LEE, DC // ASCEND CHIROPRACTIC AND WELLNESS
A personal wellness experience, tailored to you.
What is your unique approach to wellness that sets you apart in the industry?
At Ascend, we focus on combining multiple different modalities of care to achieve wellness and peak functionality. All treatments are performed by the treating doctor, not by multiple providers. This is important, because it allows me as the doctor to know what muscles were worked on, for how long, and what techniques were used prior to adjusting the patient. This will ensure a more personal experience, tailored to your body.
Why should clients consider you for their wellness treatment?
I’m entering my eighth year in practice at 33 years old. I’ve treated a multitude of various musculoskeletal conditions using different techniques and modalities, all supported by the most up to date research.
Why is now the best time to focus on health and wellness? You only get one body. Marin is known to
have weekend warriors and very active people of all ages. Injuries are inevitable, maintenance and prevention is key, so the earlier we start, the better.
How are you disrupting your industry and thinking outside the box?
Evidence shows that chiropractic is best utilized when combined with other treatments. At Ascend, you will receive a combination of adjustments, myofascial release (including IASTM), stability exercises, traction, muscle stimulation (EMS) and other PT modalities.
What new service do you offer?
Shockwave therapy has made a huge impact in my clinic. Our shockwave unit breaks up scar tissue, “knots” or muscle adhesions at the cellular level. The vast majority of patients have felt a noticeable reduction in symptoms even after one treatment.
LYNNETTE
SHAW
// MARIN ALLIANCE
Find the right cannabis products for whatever ails you.
What is it about you that makes you a wellness expert?
I have been involved in the medical cannabis movement since 1991, starting during the HIV crisis. Over the past 25 years, I have personally assisted more than 35,000 patients. Cannabis, a simple plant, offers a wide range of health benefits. My approach with patients is straightforward: I ask about their symptoms. If they experience nausea, I recommend trying sativa products. For those in pain, a combination of CBD and indica may be beneficial. If sleep is an issue, I suggest indica products to help them rest.
What is your unique approach to wellness that sets you apart in the industry?
I am the inventor and defender of the first cannabis license, having spent 19 years in federal court to secure the legal right to sell cannabis. This journey has given me a unique historical perspective. I have treated tens of thousands of patients, supported by a highly educated staff dedicated to providing comfort and counsel. We consistently achieve excellent results. Additionally, we offer a money-back guarantee: if the medicine we recommend does not work effectively for our patients, they can either receive a refund or return to try new products.
Are there any new products that clients should be aware of?
Absolutely. Breez Cannabis offers a tincture called Cinnamon Relief, a 1:1 THC Tincture Drop. Each dose contains a balanced blend of
5mg THC and 5mg CBD, derived from full-spectrum cannabis oil and naturally anti-inflammatory cinnamon oil. Unlike other products that often use heavily processed distillates and isolates, Breez Tinctures utilize coldprocessed full-spectrum extract. This method preserves the complete range of natural cannabinoids, terpene and phytochemicals, ensuring maximum benefits and a superior experience.
MARIN ALLIANCE
6 School Street, Ste. 210, Fairfax, CA Phone: 415.295.7633
JENNIFER BRINN // JENNIFER BRINN, REIKI & INTUITIVE WELLNESS
With the holidays coming up, now is the best time to reduce stress and be present.
Are there any new practices that clients should be aware of?
I just reenvisioned my Reiki Wisdom School as mini soul-growth retreats at my Sausalito healing center. These are fun weekend retreats open to anyone interested in learning the ancient practice of Reiki, self-discovery and intuitive development.
Why should clients consider Reiki for their next wellness treatment?
A reiki healing session offers a deep reset for the nervous system. Feeling a sense of internal ease will soften the facial expression, the body and simply radiates into everything else in your life.
Why is now the best time to focus on health and wellness?
Doubling-down on your well-being during the holiday season is crucial to reduce stress, feel present with loved ones and truly enjoy the beauty of the season.
These unique Bay Area–inspired candles make great gifts.
Why are your candles the perfect gift?
We are now incorporating custom engraving into some of our candle vessels, some which allow the light to pass through as a lighted image on the vessel.
What are you doing to stay connected with the local community?
We donate candles to several organizations to help the underprivileged. We also have brought children into the warehouse to make candles for themselves and their families as a learning experience.
What makes your product different?
Our candles will fit into any decor and will fill your home with beautiful fragrances and our candles make a perfect gift — especially for those with a Bay Area connection. Also, we provide outstanding customer service and always stay focused on product development.
Nourish your wellbeing in a welcoming and high-vibe community.
What is your unique approach to wellness that sets you apart in the industry?
Our yoga and fitness classes uniquely blend crystal activations, spiritual tools and energy healing transmissions. They provide practical tools to help you stay present and aligned with your deepest knowing. True wellbeing comes from reconnecting with your intuition — your innate superpower. These transformative practices guide you back to your inner truth, supporting your growth and healing journey. We offer yoga, strength, sound baths, hypnosis, tarot and astrology.
Why should clients consider you for their next wellness treatment?
Whether you’re reaching fitness milestones, unwinding with a massage, relieving stress or releasing stuck energy, our practitioners offer a dynamic range of nourishing modalities. We blend services that heal every layer of your being — mental, physical, emotional and spiritual.
IVANA JAGODIC // POSTPARTUM SUPPORT CENTER
Focusing on the well-being of mothers, fathers and children.
How does the Postpartum Support Center contribute to the health and wellness of Marin residents?
The PPSC is filling an important gap for families during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Tragically, one in three mothers, especially from low-income and minority backgrounds, suffer from maternal mental health disorders, yet 75 percent go untreated. Postpartum Support Center is the only local organization offering free evidence-based support for perinatal families. Each month, PPSC helps over 500 families with counseling, education, and essentials like diapers, clothes and formula.
How can the public make support PPSC’s mission?
To all who believe in our cause, we urge you to step forward. For many low-income families the holidays are especially difficult as they struggle to provide for their loved ones. Help us give them hope by taking one or more of the following actions: make a monetary donation, host a holiday diaper/toy drive, volunteer with us, join our Board of Directors or become a part of the Marin Maternal Mental Health Collaborative.
POSTPARTUM SUPPORT CENTER 4162 Redwood Highway, San Rafael 94903
A results-driven skin care practice that offers noninvasive treatments and minimal downtime.
What is it about your business that makes it a wellness and beauty leader?
Moonstone Skin & Body Care has been an award-winning skin care studio in Marin for nearly 15 years. Our team has over 30 years of experience in the health, wellness and beauty industry.
What is your unique approach to health and beauty that sets you apart in the industry?
What makes us unique is how we serve our clients. We see only one client at a time, and we customize each treatment based on their individual skin care needs, lifestyle and commitment to their health.
Are there any new treatments that clients should be aware of?
We offer exclusive, high quality skin care services that focus on results and innovation, including Microcurrent, JetPlasma, Nanofusion, LED/Light Therapy and Dermaplaning.
MOONSTONE SKIN & BODY CARE
415.898.0426
1129 First Street, Novato, CA 94945 www.moonstoneskincare.com @moonstoneskincare
KELSAY ELIZABETH MYERS // DIALOGICAL PERSONA HEALING ARTS
For bold hearts on the road to transformation, embodiment and self-expression.
What is it about you and your business that makes you a wellness expert?
At Dialogical Persona, I hold space for you to explore all the facets of yourself that need attention, care and integration, so you can show up with more vitality and wellbeing in your life and within your relationships.
Why should clients consider you for their next wellness and beauty treatment?
Beauty is a way of being connected in the world and sensing what feels good to your whole system. If you’re not integrated in mind-body-soul, you’re at a disadvantage in living a healthy and beautiful life.
Why is now the best time to focus on wellness?
As we enter the holidays, there’s a lot more stress, pressure and commitments that take us away from focusing on our inner needs and self-care. I provide accountability, resources and time for yourself, so you can show up for everything else with more ease, compassion and love.
DIALOGICAL PERSONA HEALING ARTS kelsay@dialogicalpersona.com www.dialogicalpersona.com /dialogicalpersona
going places.
ITALY’S CALLING
Add Umbria to your 2025 must-visit list; Bay Area girls get an up-close look at the motorsports industry; and an update from the S.F.–Marin Food Bank, just in time for the holidays.
Views from Umbria’s Reschio Hotel
HANDS ON THE WHEEL
This organization gives young women and girls an opportunity to see if a future in the motorsports industry is right for them.
By Amber Turpin
FOR SOME OF US , the idea of starting a motorsports organization might seem completely out of left field. But for Michelle Della Penna, daughter of legendary IndyCar team owner John Della Penna, the concept was second nature. Having grown up around the racetrack, immersed in all things motor and racing, Della Penna felt compelled to tap into that background as a tribute to her father after his death.
But in a new, progressive way for the next generation.
“I’m a business owner and entrepreneur and have done a lot of things in my life. I’m also a mom of three boys. But when my dad died about five years ago, I was at the track with one of my sons and I realized there were only one or two girls on the grid,” says Della Penna. “I asked myself why aren’t there more girls? And it occurred to me, maybe in
honor of my dad I could sponsor a scholarship for a young lady.”
The light bulb moment ultimately led to the creation in 2021 of Della Penna Motorsports Next Gen Foundation (www.dellapenna foundation.org), a 501(c)3 organization with a mission to close the gender gap in the motorsports industry by empowering young women and girls ages 5 to 16 with mentorship opportunities,
Allan Rosenberg
Racing action during the Ferrari Challenge at Sonoma Raceway.
experiential knowledge, expertise and skill in a direct, hands-on way.
“It became clear that just one scholarship for one little girl just doesn’t move the needle enough. So it was asking the question of ‘What are the tenets to follow?’, which led to the foundation.”
Once she had that clarity, the wheels started moving really fast. The initial idea came in February, and she filed for 501(c)(3) status in May, with the first event happening in September of 2021 at Laguna Seca. That was a big deal for Della Penna, it being her “home track.” And the process of putting together the foundation team was no small feat, but through friends and word of mouth, Della Penna was introduced to Susan Lucas-Conwell, who became the foundation’s executive director. They immediately connected and mapped out what support
they needed, identifying that a board of directors and community engagement would both be crucial. Lucas-Conwell was followed by foundation members Lyn St. James and Beth Paretta.
“Lyn St. James, I grew up watching her, she’s a legend. She took my call right away and said ‘Whatever you need!’ Beth Paretta came at the same time. They are titans in this industry, and they became our pillars for this organization,” says Della Penna.
The opportunities for girls are impressive and keep growing. Recently wrapping up the Ferrari Challenge at the Sonoma Raceway, with which the foundation is closely tied, the organization is rolling out its scholarship program for 2025 and heading to Indianapolis for its third annual immersive weekend there — with capacity doubled in light
One scholarship for one little girl just doesn’t move the needle enough.”
of how many applicants wanted to take part.
Luckily for local girls looking to get more involved, “we have a pretty strong foothold in the Bay Area, primarily in Sonoma. We go out to local high schools, boys and girls clubs, and invite local girls out to events,” says Della Penna. “We also have fellowships that are weeklong events for young ladies to shadow a female driver for a week. It’s a deep dive into all things motorsports.”
From left: Girls from Sonoma Valley High School; a student sits in driver Hannah Grisham’s car
LEGENDS OF THE FALL
Italy’s “green heart” is an understated alternative to Tuscany and especially inviting in November.
By Casey Hatfield-Chiotti
IN THE RUGGED HILLS OF UMBRIA fall is a season of abundance, says Nencia Bolza, who operates Reschio, a 3,700-acre estate and luxury hotel, with her husband, architect and designer Count Benedikt Bolza.
“After the first rains, we get almost a second spring — the dry fields become green and the meadows begin to blossom again,” says Nencia.
Locals move with a slower but purposeful pace in the central Italian region that sits next to Tuscany but feels more mysterious and less tame. The only region in Italy that doesn’t border another country or the sea, and with strict laws regarding development, Umbria has remained a time capsule. In November, trained dogs begin sniffing out truffles in Umbria’s oak tree–covered hillsides. Figs, walnuts and mushrooms
are also available for foraging and locals celebrate the hard work of harvest. Across the region, families pick olives, creating some of the country’s highest-quality olive oils. The olive groves at Reschio include Dolce Agogia trees, a temperamental variety found only in Umbria that produces a complex oil with notes of grass and orange peel.
Here’s how to make the most of fall and winter in Umbria.
Courtesy of Reschio Hotel
COUNTRYSIDE ESCAPE
Swaths of shadowy Umbrian countryside are covered with protected woodlands and estates. When my family and I arrived at Reschio Hotel (from $1,033 per night; www.reschio.com), the gold standard for a countryside stay in Italy, I was struck by its rusticity and refinement. The hotel occupies a 1,000-year-old castle, once an imperial fiefdom decreed by emperor Charles IV in 1355. Benedikt Bolza’s father purchased the whole of the estate in the
mid-’90s. There are no televisions in the guest rooms, which are inspired by Bolza family members and ancestors and feature antique portraits and gleaming espresso machines designed by the count. A Boot Room overflows with fresh cut wildflowers and the Palm Court, a glass and sage green wroughtiron structure, recalls a grand city hotel rather than a country guesthouse. Elegantly dressed guests gather there for aperitif hour to listen to nightly jazz while sipping white-peach bellinis. When I met Count Benedikt in his on-property architecture and design
Our mentality is incredibly rooted in the fact that we are here to stay.”
studio in a restored tobacco factory — he has renovated multiple ancient farmhouses on the property and has his own B.B. for Reschio furniture line — he told me Reschio isn’t a wine community even though it has vineyards, or a “resort” even though it has several restaurants, an oval swimming pool, an equestrian center and a spa in the castle’s ancient wine cellars where treatments take place next to a flickering fire. “We are a private estate run by a family,” he says. “Our mentality is incredibly rooted in the fact that we are here to stay,” he adds.
Reschio Hotel’s stunning pool area (left); The Palm Court at Reschio Hotel
EXPLORING PERUGIA
While it would be all too easy to stay in the Umbrian countryside, the hilltop city of Perugia 50 minutes southeast of Reschio is less touristy than Florence and Siena, but equally impressive. The city sits on ancient Etruscan ruins. Guests can see the archaeological treasures from the glass bottom of Sina Brufani ’s (from $222 per night; www.sinahotels.com) swimming pool. Perched atop the city’s defensive walls, Sina Brufani has presided over Perugia since opening in 1884 and many of the high-ceilinged guest rooms have panoramic views of the countryside. The hotel’s best feature, however,
is its location near the wide pedestrian-only Corso Vannucci lined with luxury shops and gelaterias. Perugia’s must-see sites are just a short stroll, like the Galleria Nazionale dell’Umbria (www.galleria nazionaledellumbria.it) in the medieval Priori Palace, Umbria’s Uffizi, with more than 3,000 works from the 13th to 20th centuries. At the opposite end of the street from the hotel sits impressive Piazza IV Novembre with a Gothic cathedral and a marble fountain intricately carved with zodiac signs. Make reservations at Michelin-starred Ada (www.adagourmet.it) for newfangled takes on nostalgic Umbrian fare.
WHERE TO TASTE TRUFFLES AND MORE
Few Italian regions can lay claim to more deliciousness than Umbria, which produces mouthwatering chocolate, precious saffron and abundant black and white truffles. The town of Città di Castello north of Perugia hosts a white truffle festival November 1 to 3 (www.bianco pregiato.it) that includes truffle cooking demonstrations and tastings.
In addition to celebrating wine harvest, Umbria is known for its deep and savory Sagrantino grape, and visitors can also taste the region’s renowned new extra-virgin olive oil in November. Frantoi Aperti
Courtesy of Sina Brufani
Sina Brufani’s pool
Sina Brufani guest room
For 70 years Lifehouse has been dedicated to ensuring that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are accepted and have a place in our community. With a diverse range of available programs, each person supported by Lifehouse benefits from an individualized service plan ensuring that they have the opportunity to live a full life on their own terms. With your support Lifehouse can continue it’s vital mission and commitment to our community.
Supported Living Program
Individualized training and support for adult and seniors enabling them to live in their apartment or home. Services range from 30 hours weekly to 24-hour care.
Specialized Autism Program
Supported living services to individuals with autism living in their own home/apartment. A team of staff and an autism specialist collaborate on strategies to support each individual in living a full life.
Independent Living Services
Provides ongoing assistance and support to people with I/DD to live as independently as possible in the community with approximately 10 hours of support weekly.
Adult Residential Facility
Two licensed group homes designed to promote independence.
www.lifehouseagency.org
Individualized Day Support
Services
Tailored day services support provided to individuals in their homes.
RecLife:
Lifehouse runs two recreation programs for teens and young adults in Marin and Sonoma Counties.
Prader-Willi Program
Lifehouse opened a group home in 2023, serving individuals with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS). Staff are specifically trained to support the needs of individuals with PWS.
Intermediate Care Facilities
Two group homes that are staffed to provide intensive personal care and medical support to individuals with multiple disabilities
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(www.frantoiaperti.net), one of Italy’s largest olive oil festivals, takes place through November 17. Many olive mills throughout the region are open to the public so visitors can sample the freshly pressed oil and walk among olive groves.
Tenuta di Murlo (www.murlo.com), an estate that has been in the same family since the 16th century, has launched a cooking school where guests can learn to make traditional Umbrian dishes. A new farm area centered around a restored farmhouse is a meeting place for experiences like truffle hunting and apiary workshops. The resort can organize gourmet picnics with estate-grown wine, olive oil, honey and biodynamic fruits on its vast grounds, which are larger than Manhattan.
WELLNESS, ITALIAN-STYLE
The luxury wellness resort brand Six Senses is set to open its second Italy outpost in Umbria in 2026. In the meantime, hotels like Reschio are increasingly venturing into the wellness space. Co-proprietor Nencia Bolza says the cusp of winter seemed the right fit for Reschio’s first Yogherello retreat November 18 to 22. “You need to pause and be in the moment and see those rich colors that nature provides all around us,” she says. Participants will get grounded through yin yoga sessions in the estate’s San Michele Church and by learning the 6,000-year-old art form of watercolor painting.
Courtesy of Tenuta di Murlo
Villa Molinella at Tenuta di Murlo
Providing healthy meals feeds hope and positive change
Making 13,000 meals per month for our programs lies at the heart of our mission of “opening doors to safety, dignity, hope and independence.”
People who skipped meals in the past count on us for fresh, nutritious food as they work to build financial stability and meet housing goals. Despite rising food costs, our culinary team meets the challenge every day to fuel their journeys with healthy options. You can help fill plates for families, seniors, veterans and others taking steps to overcome homelessness. Feed hope today at hbofm.org/donate.
Together we can fulfill the vision that “everybody needs a place to call home.”
hbofm.org/donate
Photos by Paige Green
Marin Living hosted this grand event honoring designers, makers and architects in the heart of San Francisco’s Design District at the stunning retail space of Molteni&C operated by Luminaire. Guests enjoyed small bites, treats from The Caviar Co. and wine from Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars.
ABOUT LAST NIGHT.
MARIN LIVING’S BAY AREA DESIGN CELEBRATION OCTOBER 02, 2024
01. Trish Striglos and Christina Ciccone
02. Emily Hagopian and Michael Heacock
03. Jennifer Brierley, Trent Douglas, Ariana Maldonado and Trish Douglas 04. Small bites
05. Lawrence Batterton and Tobi Adamolekun
06. Elizabeth Shaw 07. Rebecca Miller, Stephen Saude and Lindsey Theobald 08. Sharon Ndebele
More than $1 million was raised for teen mental health at this annual fundraiser held in the South Bay. Actress Glenn Close was on hand to present author and actress Amy Poehler with the Robin Williams Legacy of Laughter Award. Bring Change to Mind is a national organization co-founded by Close dedicated to ending the stigma and discrimination surrounding mental illness.
ABOUT LAST NIGHT.
01. Zak Williams, Olivia Williams, Amy Poehler, Zelda Williams and Marsha Garces Williams 02. Placing a bid 03. Robin Williams 04. Glenn Close 05. Honoree Wayne Brady 06. David Samuel, Amy Samuel and Ted Wang
Community Minded
Applied Financial Services, Inc.
At Applied Financial Services, Inc., we dedicate ourselves to creating connections that inspire and empower, understanding that our efforts can result in enduring transformation. Our commitment extends to collecting fire donations, clothing for the homeless and bringing joy to children in need by providing toys. As a proud participant in community events, we sponsor and support amazing organizations like Roxy’s Ranch Haven. We have historically offered pro bono services to selected nonprofits, dedicating our time and expertise to ensure these organizations can thrive and continue their incredible work.
Innovative Match founder and owner Cassie ZampaKeim is a woman on a mission. She heads a company that empowers eligible singles to live fuller lives by helping them usher in love and companionship. Supporting others in their search for romance by marrying her innovative spirit with her personal triedandtrue online dating techniques has made Cassie a household name nationwide. Responsible for pairing couples over more than three decades as a matchmaker and coach, she provides her private clients with roundtheclock conciergestyle services including coaching and refining dating techniques.
Innovative Match, Ross www.innovative-match.com | 415.259.8714
Banking Built on Loyalty
With passion and service at the heart of everything we do, Redwood Credit Union is a local partner you can rely on. Whether you’re dreaming of a new home, planning for your children’s future or growing your business, our products are designed to help you thrive. From competitive rates on loans to smart savings solutions, this is banking you can count on. Join nearly 470,000 of your family, friends and neighbors who’ve found a financial partner that feels like home.
Redwood Credit Union www.redwoodcu.org 800.479.7928
Novato | San Rafael | Mill Valley Federally insured by NCUA
DECEMBER ISSUE: Wine, Dine & Gift Guide
Marin Living will showcase the Bay Area’s premier retailers, wineries, products and restaurants, presenting perfect solutions for holiday gifting and entertainment. This advertorial feature provides readers with an insider’s view into unique holiday offerings and service providers. We will enhance visibility through additional added value marketing assets, including a sponsored article linked on our website for one year, a sponsored promotion in our newsletter sent to 16,000 engaged email subscribers and social media posts.
Get in touch today and we will create a customized profile that resonates with our audience, brilliantly showcasing your holiday offerings. Contact Dina Grant
IT TAKES A VILLAGE
Despite ongoing food insecurity and the end of pandemic-era funding, the San Francisco–Marin Food Bank remains a source of hope.
By Caitlin Hamer
LAST DECEMBER, the San Francisco–Marin Food Bank (www.sfmfoodbank. org) shared that in a survey of more than 9,000 of its participants, 61 percent couldn’t cover a $400 emergency expense, 83 percent were worried about running out of food and 54 percent had been buying less food due to rising grocery prices. Nearly a year later, the food bank’s executive director, Tanis Crosby, says that such struggles remain an enduring issue.
“One in five Californians are experiencing food insecurity, and that’s true even in Marin,” she says. “Food insecurity is hiding in plain sight.”
But what’s also true is that the food bank has always been able to serve people due to the generosity of the community. Individual gifts and volunteer efforts help keep things going, ensuring that despite waiting lists and funding cuts, if people need food, they will get it. One of the biggest ways the organization does this is through food distribution: there are currently 240 neighborhood pantries in easily accessible locations throughout San Francisco and Marin, and there is a mobile food pantry that travels more than 100 miles
every other week to distribute fresh groceries in West Marin. The food bank is also working on ongoing strategies to address hunger, like advocating for policy reform and helping people access CalFresh (food stamps) benefits.
In terms of funding cuts, the end of pandemic-era government interventions has been significant. When CalFresh emergency allotments stopped, the average household in San Francisco and Marin lost $150 to $160 in money for food each month. And last fall, it was announced that the end of the emergency pandemic funding would mean that the food bank’s emergency pop-up pantries would close by June 2025. As demand spiked during the national emergency, some of these pantries (there were 27 at the height of the pandemic) served more than 1,000 people in a single morning or afternoon; but even when the world opened back up, the pop-ups have stayed busy. In fact, Crosby notes that there’s greater food insecurity now than there was during the pandemic. And that’s especially felt during the holiday season, when families spread their money between necessities and gifts. Luckily, that’s also when the community tends
to show up in droves to offer support, whether that’s through monetary donations or volunteering.
“With more resources, we can serve more people,” says Crosby. “But we do generally notice that volunteering is really popular in the fall, and sometimes after that we can see a drop-off.”
But like Crosby says, it takes a community to end hunger, and she personally favors the idea of setting a New Year’s resolution to help others. Volunteer shifts are posted online on a month-by-month basis, with needs ranging from home-delivery grocery drivers to produce sorting at one of three warehouses. “Getting involved in the food bank feels really good because you can see an immediate and direct impact of your efforts,” she adds.
In the 2023 to 2024 fiscal year, the food bank distributed 67 million pounds of food. “The food bank is often the last line of defense,” says Crosby. “We are a critical safety net, and 96 percent of our participants say they feel less worried about having enough food thanks to the food bank. The difference it makes in the lives of our neighbors is real, vital and immediate.”
From Handshakes to High Returns
Leveraging powerful relationships with an emphasis on your satisfaction and financial success.
