AS EDWARDIAN ARCHITECTURAL STYL.ES faded and Home Sweet Home to 1920s families was more often a concrete-walled California bungalow rather than a turn-ofthe-century wood-framed shotgun shack, Marin's master builders were desperate for the assistance of dependable craftsmen and reliable sources for quality tools, furnishings and repair services. If they'd have asked us, we'd have advised those hammerin' hepcats to hold off a few years to sneak a peek at Pacific Sun readers' choices for excellence in home-and-garden services - nine decades may seem like a long time to wait for a good plumber, but these Best of Marin winners are worth it.
BEST BEDS AND BEDDING
Though we all know ifs heavily frowned upon, just a stroll past the window of Duxicma has the power to lure even the most caffeine -fueled, alert and normal person to sneak through the front door, past the attentive sales staff and into the cozy comfort of the luscious beds displayed throughout the store. And Duxiana doesn't just sell beds. With a full stock of quality pillows, linens, bed pads and even products specific for the sneezy allergic types, Duxiana is sure to get you sleeping in heavenly peace. "Duxiana customers know we offer a high level of service and products to make their sleep experience the best ever, year after year," says owner Sharyn Johnson. And bonus! For all customers purchasing new beds in April, Duxiana offers a complimentary goose down comforter and pillows. Zzzzzzzz...
Duxiana
901 ASt., San Rafael 459.0365
2ND Mary's Futons, San Rafael
3RD Natural Mattress Store, San Rafael
BEST ANTIQUE STORE
Robin and Wayne Wechsler have been voted Best of Marin six times in a row for their remarkable business, A Dove Place, which sells antiques but is also a consignment and estate sale operation. Known for fair, honest pricing and their sensitivity in dealing with people who are, at times, in wrenching circumstances after the death of a loved one, the Wechslers know how to handle an entire estate or a single silver spoon. They invite everyone to come to their store to sell or buy beautiful objects; Robin specializes in evaluating estate jewelry, and both Wechslers urge anyone who is thinking about maybe, perhaps, I-don't-know exploring the chance of doing something about some old Chinese porcelain or silver shoved back in the cupboard to talk to them - the market is very good for those objects right now. The Internet has turned the antique game into a global business, and A Dove Place's website reaches customers everywhere.
A Dove Place
160 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., San Anselmo 453.1490 doveplaceantiques.com
2ND The Pavillion Antiques, San Anselmo
3RD Angel Estates Antiques, San Rafael
BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY
Started in the humble beginnings of a basement in San Anselmo, Bradley Real Estate now has one commercial and nine residential real estate offices. Locally owned and operated by Melissa and Robert Bradley (who both grew up in Marin), Bradley Real Estate is having a banner year in the midst of an economic downturn. The Bradley s attribute the success to their terrific employees and agents and to their clients, who keep coming back and giving them referrals. One thing that sets Bradley Real Estate apart from the competition is the fact that upper management is local and available at all times. These days, brokers have to get more involved in the loan process and the access to management makes BRE well- suited to provide legal and business advice.
Bradley Real Estate
various locations, bradleyrealestate.com
2ND Frank Howard Allen, various locations
3RD Coldwell Banker, various locations
BEST CARPET CLEANING AND BEST WINDOW CLEANING
Dual winners this year, owner Elliot Atlas of Atlas Window and Carpet Cleaning is honored to get the recognition and is grateful to his loyal clientele for their votes. This is the fifth time that Atlas has won for carpet cleaning, so it's obvious that clients are satisfied. All the carpet cleaning is done using unique tools that remove more soil than the competition. They are experts at stain elimination, going over, above and beyond. One fantastic value that sets Atlas apart from all other carpet cleaners is that they give their clients a very special spot and stain removal system that includes four different products and instructions. This is to help between cleanings. Many customers have saved a lot of money by handling their own tough stains. For windows, Atlas has two dedicated teams that only "do windows," providing quality work at a fast pace. They were the first company to offer a residential maintenance plan, which combines good value with regular cleanings. Call today for an intro ductory sp ec ial .
Atlas Window and Carpet Cleaning
118 Auburn St., San Rafael 256.8321
Best Carpet Cleaning
2ND North Bay Carpet Cleaning, Fairfax
3RD Day & Night Carpet Cleaning, Novato
Best Window Cleaning
2ND Ken's Crystal Clear Windows, San Rafael
3RD Excellent Window and Carpet Cleaning, San Rafael
BEST CARPETING AND BEST HARDWOOD FLOORING
Winning this year for both Best Carpet and Best Hardwood Flooring, Rafael Floors continues to please Marin customers. In business for 52 years, their success is due to the professional, well- trained salespeople and their in-house installation force. At Rafael Floors, they are always looking for the latest technologies to meet clients' demands. So this spring they are getting a Bona dustless sanding system for refinishing hardwood floors without the mess. The 5,000- square-foot showroom carries all the latest green products, such as carpet made from corn, real linoleum, recycled carpeting, wool, bamboo and cork. Customer satisfaction is paramount and they appreciate that 80 percent of their business comes from referrals and returning patrons. Employees train to complete certifications they are up-to-date on the latest trends in product and installation techniques. Rafael Floors says, "Thank you for your confidence in us" to all Pacific Sun readers.
Rafael Floors
822 Francisco Blvd., San Rafael 456.3656
Best Carpet
2ND Ken's Carpets and Flooring, San Rafael
3RD Carpet One, San Rafael
Best Hardwood Flooring
2ND Ken's Carpets and Flooring
3RD Eureka Valley Floor Company, San Rafael
BEST CLEANING SERVICE
"The cost is not that big when you consider the peace of mind you get as a result," says Pat Belardi of Molly Maid of Marin. "Even a one time a month deep cleaning makes a big difference in your lifestyle." And she's right. Anyone who has ever - even just once - had someone other than a reluctant spouse or sloppy child remove obnoxious dust bunnies, relocate the spider colonies in the laundry room and wipe crumbs and coffee stains from kitchen counters, knows the joy of stepping into a clean house at the end of a long day. Molly Maid of Marin continues to offer this reliable and timesaving service with stellar reviews and loyal, long-term customers. Molly Maid is available for one-time cleanings, regularly scheduled cleanings and gift certificates for new moms and anyone else who would rather come home to a clean home.
Molly Maid of Marin
424 Irwin St, San Rafael 454.3600
2ND Housekeepers of Marin, Novato
3RD Mimi's Cleaning Service, Mill Valley
BEST COMPUTER REPAIR
Apple computers maybe highly reliable, but people still drop them and spill coffee on them and overload them with pictures and applications and godknowswhat and dogs chew up the AC adapters and data is lost and that's where Steve Beale comes in. A one-man-band at Ma < Repair, Beale has been fixing Macs since 1989. He says he works "all the time" and the biggest complaint his customers have is that he's hard to get a hold of (try email - steve@macrepair. com - of course). More and more of his business is nursing old beloved computers back to health; when the Sun called he was working on a newfangled computing machine made in 1996. His shop is something of a Mac museum; Beale tries to hold on to at least two of every model for spare parts. Because you never know when that next old Apple will come through the door.
MaiRepair
7075 Redwood Blvd. Ste. G, Novato 456.9000
2ND Freitas Computer Services, Novato
3RD Computer Connection, Greenbrae
BEST DECK AND FENCING CONTRACTOR
Clough Const ruction has been around for 23 years, but Deanne CIo ugh says she and husband Scott are "grateful, humbled and honored" to be recognized by our readers and their customers. Citing service as the company's No. 1 priority, Deanne says the "business is only as good as our customers." And CIo ugh Construction has plenty of repeat customers and referrals to back that up. A huge plus is the showroom, where clients can see the choices available (not to mention the connection to an actual person when first calling). But what Deanne is most excited about now is taking her passion - making a difference on the planet - and putting it into business practice. In other words, ifs about sustainability - doing what's best for both customers and the environment. She's working on creating green options for all their products. And they're all set to carry FSC (Forest Steward Certified) lumber. Even the scrap wood is remilled. But there's more to it than that; obviously, if the design isn't what the customer envisioned or the construction good, then great service isn't going to keep customers happy. Cleary, CIo ugh Construction has been hitting all the right notes.
Clough Construction
117 Mitchell Blvd. Ste. A, San Rafael 444.5554 cloughconstruction.com
2ND Marin Fence Co., San Rafael
3RD Just Fences, Novato
BEST FRAME SHOP
The motto at Cheap Pete's is "Fun, Fast and Affordable" and that's just what customers experience when they walk in the San Rafael store. Carrying the largest selection of ready-made frames and mats available, Cheap Pete's makes beautiful framing available to the masses. If you don't see exactly what you want, the staff will help customize a mat and frame for your artwork or will cut a mat or glass while you wait. The salespeople are all designers and are well-equipped to offer advice on color and style to suit every budget. Cheap Pete's is a local, familyowned business and has been around for 38 years. For the best selection and service for all your framing needs, Cheap Pete's is the answer.
Cheap Pete's
221 3rd St., San Rafael 455.8055
2ND Fastframe of Novato
3RD Frame Crafters Gallery, Greenbrae and Mill Valley
BEST GIFT SHOP
What's new at perennial Best of Marin winner the Great Acorn Co.? "We're still fabulous " says Judy Morris, who's owned the store with Mary Rathbun for 15 years. In a place filled with an eclectic mix "from the sublime to the funny" of wind-up toys, novelty items, fine art and fine jewelry-really, truly Something For Everyone-"Customers are always saying it takes three visits to really see everything," Morris says. Whether they're looking for underwear for hands (believe it or not, a big hit this Christmas) or a one-of-a-kind jewelry piece, Great Acorn is the place to find it. And they'll wrap it up for free. It all makes for a very happy place. "A large group of regular customers, we've gotten to know them and they've become friends," Rathbun says. "I never dread going to work."
Great Acorn Co.
800 San Anselmo Ave., San Anselmo 454.2990
2ND Folk Art Gallery, San Rafael
3RD David M. Brian, Greenbrae
BEST HAULING
Paul Sonnabend and David Sherman, coowners and operators of Hurricane Hauling, know they aren't a three- time Best of Marin business for simply picking up stuff in a truck and taking it away and dumping it. "We're growing the deconstruction side of Hurricane," says Sonnabend. They reuse materials they find on job sites, sometimes repurposing materials for nonprofits, and run their equipment on recycled biodiesel. Nothing goes directly to a landfill, and they say about 79 percent of materials they haul in Marin are recycled - a number they want to improve even more. They handle the dirty work in a clean, green way. "People like having not to work so hard to get a simple thing done," says Sonnabend, and with their experience and expertise, Hurricane is in a position to handle the problems. "We have a strong repeat client base," says Sherman which, in a way, means their customers are recycled as well.
Hurricane Hauling
425 Irwin St., San Rafael 456.3407
2ND Zippy Hauling, San Rafael
3RD Brad's Hauling & Delivery, SanRafael
BEST HOME FURNISHINGS (HALL OF FAME: SUNRISE HOME)
Mary's Futons carries anything you can sleep on except a mattress and box spring, as well as a wide variety of furniture. From factory- second wall beds to memory foam futons, you can find it at Mary's. The extensive selection of frames and covers, sofa beds and Murphy beds allows for ultimate flexibility in style and decoration. Mary has everything in inventory so there is no waiting, and deliveries can be made on the spot, if necessary. Best of all, Mary's prides itself on having helpful employees who have fun at their jobs. Mary's Futons is community minded and supports the Mountain Play and LGBT Spectrum. The store hosts book signing s, comedy shows and dances. This spring Mary's Futons will have a Karaoke Sing-along to benefit the Mountain Play.
Mary's Futons
4100 Redwood Hwy. #A, San Rafael 472.2919
2ND Lunaria, Larkspur
3RD Ruby Living Design/Eclexion, Mill Valley
BEST HOME ORGANIZER
Though some people seem to be naturally organized - their surroundings are always neat, everything has a place and can be easily located, unfortunately, many of us are not wired that way and need help, big-time. That's when a call to California Space Organizers is in order. Marin residents VasilHs and Effie Fourakis say their "systems are designed to the size and shape of the home or office space the customer wants to address so that there are sections, partitions, cubbies, drawers, shelves, etc., to place and store things.... In a child's room, if there is a drawer dedicated for Lego toys, it's likely that's where the toys will be stored. Same for tools in the garage and files in the office." After a customer's storage needs are evaluated, the materials, colors, finishes, hardware and accessories are chosen; professional installers then do their thing and voila!, even the organized- challenged can enjoy a sensible system and place to store every important item. California Space Organizers handles everything from 360 units in a condo building to a small cottage, and have worked in every part of Marin. The Fourakis's say that with their 21 years in business in San Rafael, clients know they can rely on this "service- oriented company with very competitive prices."
California Space Organizers
1201 Andersen Dr., Ste. S, San Rafael 454.7477
2ND Changing Places, Inc., Sausalito
3RD A Space for Everything, San Rafael
BEST KITCHEN/BATH REMODELER
After 45 years in Marin, customers remain loyal to Lamperti Contracting and Design. Specializing in kitchen and bathroom remodeling, the company manages to stay afloat even in these tough economic times because of its reliability and dedication to providing professional, timely services. "We feel really blessed that we've been able to keep our business going through this economy," says Greg Nelson. "We've even expanded into Sonoma County." Consistent and reliable service has brought the Best of gold to Lamperti Contracting and Design two years in a row.
Lamperti Contracting and Design
1241 Andersen Dr., San Rafael 454.1623
2ND Novato Kitchens and Bath
3RD Kitchens by Ken Ryan, Novato
BEST LANDSCAPE DESIGNER (HALL OF FAME: CYNTHIA EGGER LANDSCAPE DESIGN)
In Marin, it's not just the inside but the outside that counts. When it comes to the external design of your home territory, top-voted landscape architect firm Brian Powell & Associates is here to help. With 25 years in the business, Brian Powell is committed to classic design principles and honoring his relationships with people. During initial consultation, Powell will meet with the client, discuss goals and objectives, examine constraints and opportunities, and develop a few design plans that integrate additional factors, such as the architectural style of the house, existing vegetation and sun angles. After a design scheme is selected, Powell is there to assist with bidding contractors, obtaining permits and overseeing construction. In addition to residential design, he and his team also take on public parks and housing projects - even wetlands restorations - always keeping sustainability in mind, which has become a vital concern in the county, but is a natural, lifelong imperative for Powell. As a kid, he loved the outdoors and wilderness areas, liked to draw, and wanted to do something with the environment. He now views his design work as a joyful way to take stewardship of the land, one lot at a time, and invites his clients to be stewards of the land themselves - starting right at home.
Brian Powell & Associates
181 Carlos Dr., Suite 101 ,San Rafael 491. 4480 brianpowelldesign.com
2ND Gardens & Gables, San Rafael
3RD Garden Design, Mill Valley
BEST LOCAL FINANCIAL INSTITUTION
Ask Bank of Marin Central Marin Regional Manager Michael Kadel and Communications Manager Fabia Butler why their bank is the Best of Marin and they don't just come up with a reason - they ing nontoxic choices; a full line of housewares - even Cuisinart appliances and Le Creuset cookware and serving dishes; lawn and garden supplies galore; and automotive supplies as well. And don't worry about wandering the aisles wondering where to find things, or how to use what you've found - knowledgeable and helpful staff ensures you'll get just what you need.
Pini Ace Hardware
1535 S. Novato Blvd., Novato 892.1577 piniacehardware.com
2ND Fairfax Lumber & Hardware, Fairfax
3RD Goodman Building Supply, Mill Valley
BEST MOVING AND STORAGE
"We stand behind our work," says Mario Batz, general manager of Johnson & Daly Moving & Storage. "We give you a price, we stick to it. If something breaks, we fix it." The family- owned firm (est. 1979) has a fleet of two dozen trucks, 40plus employees with workers' comp and a 150,000 square foot warehouse, the biggest in the North Bay. Their state-of-the-art m o ving te clin o lo gy in elude s ? ian o an d stair- climbing dollies and trucks specially built to tackle steep driveways. Their "soup to nuts" service ranges from packing, moving and storing your stuff as long as necessary to unpacking it and taking the boxes away. (They'll even take digital pictures of your old setup and unpack the furniture in your new home exactly the way it was in your old place.) And thanks to its global team of destination agents, Johnson & Daly can handle moves across town or around the world.
Johnson & Daly Moving Storage
110 Belvedere St., San Rafael 491.4444 jdmovers.com
2ND Earl Farnsworth Express, San Rafael
3RD Aloha Moving & Storage, San Rafael
BEST PAINT STORE
After 63 years in business, the folks at Marin Color Services have figured out a few things. "Our basic focus is still in-house color consulting and excellent customer service," says longtime manager James Greenhill, who no doubt doesn't want to hear any more comments about how his name sounds like the name of a very nice shade of paint. Marin Color carries the best paint there is - Benjamin Moore - and pros and experienced do-it-yourselfers know how big a difference quality paint makes, both in the ease of the job and the end result. Novice painters will appreciate the expert advice Marin Color can provide, and even Internet surfers who have no notion of painting a room will want to see Marin Color's website to peruse the new color palettes for 2011 - including photos of 201 Ts color of the year, Vintage Wine, in "action." If any of the new colors tempt you, or if you're sticking with tried- andtrue Linen White, Marin Color is ready to help. Says Greenhill, "We're simply the best at what we do."
Marin Color Service
770 2nd St., San Rafael 453.4065; 703 Grant Ave., Novato 897.9411
2ND Jackson's Hardware, San Rafael
3RD Goodman Building Supply, Mill Valley
BEST PAINTING CONTRACTOR
Kunst Bros. Painting Contractors have painted everything from the San Francisco Theological Seminary to Industrial Light and Magic to the ICB Building to the gold leaf on the stage of Veterans' Auditorium, but "our bread and butter is people's homes," says owner Nick Kunst. ("We've also painted just about every large church in Marin County") The business began in 1871 and has been in the same San Rafael location since 1959, and that 140 years of experience has translated into plenty of customer satisfaction and repeat business. Kunst and his staff offer professional advice ("we choose about 80 percent of our clients' colors") and often donate their services to worthy recipients like St. Vincent's and the San Rafael Fire Department. Now in its fourth generation of brightening the lives of its clients, the family business has been featured on the HGTV home-improvement channel five times.
Kunst Bros. Painting Contractors
76 Belvedere St., San Rafael 456.4044.kunstbros.com
2ND Meyer Painting, San Rafael
3RD McCarthy Painting, San Rafael
BEST PATIO FURNITURE
Frellen's has been in the Bay Area since 1960 - b ut two years ago it was taken over by Carls Patio West and their showrooms and website were spiffed up. They offer extensive lines of outdoor furniture in teak, wicker, wrought iron, aluminum and a heavy-duty "green" option of recycled plastic furniture by Generation Line. (This furniture can be green in another way, too - for instance, you can order an Adirondack chair in any of 10 colors, including "mint" and "lime.") You can get a really good idea of the options online or, better yet, go to the showroom and see for yourself. After all, Marin's great climate simply begs for outdoor living areas, and Frellen's knows how to make the most of any space you have.
Frellen's
530 Francisco Blvd. W., San Rafael 459.6144
2ND Benches Etc., Mill Valley
3RD Jackson's Hardware, San Rafael
BEST PLACE TO BUY A SPA OR HOT TUB
What object could be more quintessentially Marin than a hot tub? The epitome of luxury and health, the home spas and hot tubs of Creative Energy have soothed the aching bodies and psyches of Marin's high-powered and perpetually stressed for over 35 years. In fact, it was Creative Energy that spawned the original redwood hot tubs of the groovy, swinging '70s, for which Marin earned something of a reputation. Family-owned and operated, San Rafaelbased Creative Energy teamed up with Hot Spring - the largest portable spa manufacturer in the world - in the early '80s, and now boasts four locations throughout the greater Bay Area. Creative Energy also deals in saunas, masonry fireplaces, fireplace inserts, stoves and solar products. And they sell refurbished, pre- owned spas at low cost. But their No. 1 spa product is the Hot Spring "Jetsetter," a quaint three-person spa that's energy efficient, easy to maintain and satisfyingly therapeutic. According to the seemingly serene Creative Energy sales consultants - and their 20,000-plus customers possibly soaking in their spas right now - just 10 minutes in hot water with jets helps improve circulation, releases endorphins and reaps huge benefits to your daily life. But why take their word for it? The San Rafael showroom (marked by the infamous outdoor mannequin, "Svetlan a") with private testing rooms awaits!
Creative Energy
3815 Redwood Hwy., San Rafael 471.7727. creativeenergy.com.
2ND Marin Outdoor Living, Greenbrae
3RD Herb's Pool & Spa Services, San Rafael
BEST PLUMBER
"Every natural disaster usually involves plumbing," says Peter Levi, owner of Peter Levi Plumbing, Marin's go-to pipe-anddrain maestro for nearly two decades. "Whenever there's a problem - flood, freeze, fire, drought - they call us first." Levi and his 16 trained professionals handle the less disastrous situations as well, of course, including heating and air conditioning woes as well as plumbing. Available 24/7, there's always "an actual person answering the phone," and one out of 10 Marinites (plus most of the county's property management companies) have called upon Levi at one time or another. The firm is also involved in several local charitable programs, from sponsoring ball clubs to supporting Buckelew, Youth in Arts and Family Services of Marin. "We like to give back to the community."
Peter Levi Plumbing
181 8 2nd St., San Rafael 454.7771. peterleviplumbinginc.com
2ND Gotelli Plumbing, San Rafael
3RD Ongaro & Sons Plumbing Heating Cooling, San Anselmo
BEST ROOFER
DeMello Roofing has been sheltering Marin homes since 1927, and estimate they've roofed more than 50,000 houses in the county. Most of their work is on residential buildings, and their website helpfully explains differences in roofing materials, as well as giving advice on how to choose the right type and, most importantly, the right color for your house. But you don't need to do it all on a computer. DeMeIIo gives free estimates, of course, and don't worry about being pressured: Their motto is "A call will bring a roofer... not a salesman"
DeMello Roofing
45 Jordan St., San Rafael 456.0741
2ND McLaren Roofing, San Rafael
3RD Morris Roofing, San Rafael
BEST SELF-STORAGE
Bellum Self Storage & Boxes offers everything you need in a top-of-the-line yet reasonably priced storage facility. The three-story, 65,000-square-foot building was constructed for storage, so it boasts thick concrete walls and moderate temperatures year-round. The spaces, ranging in size from 4-by-4 feet to 9 -by- 20 feet, are extremely clean and well lit The complex offers outstanding security measures, including a gated entry, individual keypad alarms for each space, cameras, speakers and earthquake-proof retrofitted construction. The enormous parking lot accommodates 18-wheelers, there's a wide array of moving supplies available at the best prices, and the entire facility is 100 percent solar and certified green. Best of all, the staff "is very friendly and creates a wonderful, happy environment," says co-owner John Jansheski.
Bellum Self Storage & Boxes
24 Belbm Blvd., San Rafael454.1983 bellairistorage.com
2ND Empire Mini Storage, Novato
3RD Heiibom Storage, Novato
BEST TILE AND STONE STORE
Craig Anderson of CTW Designs says he knows why his store is the "caulk" of the town - "Good customer service, honesty, wide selection." They've been in business 25 years, and see building and remodeling making a comeback in Marin, and with it, tile. New in the store is a line called Watermark - with tiles made in the USA, which are ultra-modern to traditionaL CTW also carries bath fixtures, and Anderson sees the classic chrome finish making a comeback as well. If someone's interested in exploring the possibilities for a bath or kitchen remodel or new construction, he or she should visit the website, or, better yet, drop into the store and talk to the expert staff at CTW They know their tile style, can hook you up with an installer, and you can browse the selection until your eyes "glaze" over at the biggest designer showroom in Marin.
CTW Designs
10 Hamibn Dr., Novato 883.8861
2ND Ceramic Tile Design, San Rafael
3RD Marin Tile Supply, Novato
BEST TOWN OTHER THAN YOUR OWN
Marin's favorite community takes the gold again. The town of Fairfax tops out with a whopping 7,200 residents. But Fairfax is about more than statistical data and location - ifs an entity all its own. "People love Fairfax because we are an authentic and independent community? says Mayor Larry Bragman. "And we're in the heart of nature," he adds with a smile. Among the specifics that draw folks in and keep them planted in Fairfax is the dedication of elected officials and residents to stay deeply rooted in all things sustainable. Permaculture gardens, GMO bans, a growing solar energy movement and a new local currency project that hopes to keep Fairfax businesses succeeding. "Fairfax is a Mecca for people who want to live in community togetherness while protecting the environment," says former mayor and 33-year Fairfax resident Wendy Baker. "And people just love Fairfax," adds Sustainable Fairfax executive director Pam Hartwell-Herrero. "Over half of our [Sustainable Fairfax] membership is from outside of Fairfax. In addition to the eco-example that Fairfax sets for the world is a dedication to economic issues and affordable housing to support the community.
Fairfax
37.99∞N 122.58∞W (Elev. 276ft)
2ND San Anselmo
3RD Mill Valley
BEST WINDOW AND DOOR SHOWROOM
"Winning Best of is a wonderful affirmation from my customers," says a surprised Mike Hitchcock of his San Rafael business, Mission Wood. But as the customers see it, supporting a small, family-owned business is the only way to go. Specializing in doors and windows, Mission Wood was opened by Hitchcock's father and was always a family affair, with his brothers and now his own children working there as well. The customer service that Hitchcock learned from his father was simple. "You can teach people about doors and windows, but you can't teach them how to care about other people," he says. "We always keep this in mind: How would you want your mother to be treated?"
Mission Wood
27 Paul Dr., San Rafael 472.2280
2ND Rafael Lumber
3ND Novato Glass
BEST LIGHTING SHOP
With a background in theatrical lighting and almost 20 years at Lights of Rafael before purchasing the business in 2009, David O'Donahue brings a level of expertise and experience to the world of lights that Marin customers won't find elsewhere. "We want to be more than just a place that you walk into to buy lights," says O'Donahue. He sees the progression toward LED and energy- saving lights as an exciting opportunity. "Things are changing with energy efficiency, too. We want to be a source of expert knowledge in the new light world." After 40 years, Lights of Rafael still spotlights dedication to service while evolving with a new, energy-efficient future.
Lights of Rafael
4100 Redwood Hwy. # B, San Rafael 472.7292
2ND Marin Lighting and Electrics, San Rafael
3RD Light Express, San Rafael
[Sidebar]
Stan and Olile aren't in 'another fine mess' - they're in Marin's Best Place to Buy a Spa or Hot Tub, according to our readers - Creative Energy.
[Sidebar]
FEBRUARY 12, 1924 -GEORGE GERSHWIN'S RHAPSODY IN BLUE PREMIERS AT NEW YORK'S AEOLIAN HALL WITH THE COMPOSER AT THE PIANO.
'An idealist is a person who helps other people to be prosperous' - Henry Ford
[Sidebar]
'History Stephen said, is a nightmare from which I am trying to awake.' - James Joyce, 'Ulysses'
[Sidebar]
SEPTEMBER 2, 1924-TENNIS SUPERSTAR BILL TILDEN WINS HIS FIFXH CONSECUTIVE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP AT FOREST HILLS.
[Sidebar]
JANUARY 1, 1925-KNUTE ROCKNE'S 'FIGHTING IRISH' NOTRE DAME FOOTBALL SQUAD BEATS STANFORD 27-10 AT THE ROSE BOWL.
[Sidebar]
'If you have to ask what jazz is, you'll never know' - Louis Armstrong
MAY 25, 1925-JOHN T. SCOPES IS ARRESTED FOR TEACHING THE THEORY OF EVOLUTION TO HIS HIGH SCHOOL SCIENCE CLASS. THE RESULTING 'MONKEY TRIAL' PITS THREETIME PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE WILLIAM JENNINGS BRYAN AGAINST RENOWNED DEFENSE ATTORNEY CLARENCE DARROW. SCOPES IS FOUND GUILTY AND FINED $100; BRYAN DIES FIVE DAYS LATER.
'I haven't lived a good life. I've been bad, worse than you could know' - Brigid O'Shaughnessy, 'The Maltese Falcon'
[Sidebar]
have a three-point presentation. "One," Kadel begins, "commitment to community. Two, financial strength; three, company culture." They'll then go on to talk about the independent bank's work with 250 local nonprofits, their rank as the number- one business bank in Marin and five- star Bauer rating for 43 consecutive quarters, their "teamwork" and five-year strategic plans and you may start to worry this is all much too much, then you glean that Bank of Marin offers a better deal on checking accounts than your current bank and, wham, just like that, they've roped in another customer.
Bank of Marin
10 branches in Marin 800.654.51 11
2ND Redwood Credit Union, San Rafael
3RD Circle Bank, Novato and San Rafael
BEST LUMBER/HARDWARE STORE (HALL OF FAME: JACKSON'S HARDWARE)
Pini Ace Hardware has grown and matured right along with Marin County. This venerable business, which started as a dry goods store, now boasts kitchen and bath design services, countertops, cabinetry, fixtures and supplies; a huge selection of lighting; just about any hardware, electrical item or tool a homeowner or handyman could ever need; paints and stains, includMAY 31, 1925-AN EXHIBITION OF ARTS DECORATIFS OPENS IN PARIS. THESE UTILITARIAN "ART DECO" PIECES COMBINE SLEEK, MODERN DESIGN WITH AZTEC AND EGYPTIAN MOTIFS.
[Sidebar]
'I cannot see any sense in getting dressed up and doing nothing but tempting men in pictures'-Greta Garbo
[Sidebar]
'Wait a minute, wait a minute, you ain't heard nothin' yet!' - Al Jolson, 'The Jazz Singer'
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