10 fresh ways to make an impact crushing it at the home vineyard DECEMBER 23 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM SPIRIT OF THE PENINSULA let it glow! Magic Maker Christmas Decor Johnny’s Back! A HMB Classic Santana Row Winter Wonders
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12 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM features {december 2023} 102 SHOPPING HIDDEN GEMS Seeking top-notch boutiques this holiday season? An award-winning stylist and personal shopper gives us a peek into her little black book of stores. 108 10 FRESH WAYS TO GIVE BACK Helping hands means happy hearts. Check out PUNCH’s sixth annual volunteering round-up for inspiration on meaningful ways to make an impact. PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF THE CURATED SHOPPER
AlysGraceMP alysgracebayarea A L Y S G R A C E . C O M MENLO PARK 899B SANTA CRUZ AVE SAN FRANCISCO 3490 SACRAMENTO ST LOS ALTOS 208 MAIN ST SAN RAMON 6000 BOLLINGER CANYON RD AG DENIM AGOLDE ALEXA LEIGH AMO DENIM APIECE APART APOTHEKE ATM AUTUMN CASHMERE B. BELTS CABALLERO CHAN LUU CIRCOLO 1901 CITIZENS OF HUMANITY CLARE V. COLLABORATION COSABELLA COTES OF LONDON D.A.T.E. SNEAKERS EMMA ROSE FRAME FRANK & EILEEN G1 HARRIS WHARF LONDON ILLESTEVA JUMPER 1234 K. JACQUES KAI FRAGRANCE KATHY KAMEI MARISA MASON MASONʼS MICHAEL STARS MOTHER MOUSSY NAADAM NATION NEST FRAGRANCES NEVER A WALLFLOWER NILI LOTAN ONE GREY DAY REPEAT CASHMERE ROYAL NOMAD SAVE THE DUCK SEA NEW YORK SHE.RISE SMYTHE ST. ROCHE STATESIDE SUNDRY THE GREAT TROVATA ULLA JOHNSON VELVET VOYAGE ET CIE WHITE + WARREN XIRENA
29 14 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM 43 62 departments {punchline} Peninsula Culture 29 Growing Grapes 36 Perfect Shot 38 Diary of a Dog: Norman {due west} Travel & Wellness 43 Ho Ho Ho, Santana Row 48 Hit the Slopes {december 2023} IN EVERY ISSUE 18 Editor’s Note 20 Sloane Citron 23 QuickPUNCH PHOTOGRAPHY: GINO DE GRANDIS / FALL REFLECTIONS BY LONNIE ZAREM - COURTESY OF ANDREW ZAREM / PAULETTE PHLIPOT {food coloring} Eats, Drinks & Scoops 55 Coastside Classic 62 Say Cheesecake 66 The Beat on Your Eats {home & design} Style and Substance 69 Deck the House 74 Printing Memories {landmark} 114 Church of the Nativity 74
STANFORDPARKHOTEL.COM/HOLIDAYS We’re decking the halls with holiday cheer and preparing for a season of wonder at The Stanford Park Hotel. Enjoy festive events throughout the season, including ugly sweater contests, Happy Holiday Hour and delightful dinner specials on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve in the Menlo Tavern, and photos with Santa on December 3rd and 22nd. 100 El Camino Real, Menlo Park, CA Learn more about all of our holiday events SPEND THE HOLIDAYS AT YOUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME AT THE PARK
16 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM “Dear Santa, I was framed.” —UNKNOWN FOUNDER/PUBLISHER Sloane Citron EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Sheri Baer CREATIVE DIRECTOR Britt Johnston SENIOR EDITOR Johanna Harlow COPY EDITOR Carrie Lightner PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTORS Annie Barnett Paulette Phlipot PHOTOGRAPHERS Gino De Grandis Robb Most Irene Searles Robert David Siegel WRI TERS Christina Ewing Trevor Felch Linda Hubbard Jennifer Jory Sheryl Nonnenberg Elaine Wu SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Dylan Lanier ASSOCIATE PUBLISHERS Sally Randall Georgina Fox Sonia Vittori CREATIVE SERVICES DIRECTOR Airiel Mulvaney ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Alexa Randall PRINT QUALITY DIRECTOR George Marquez PUNCH is an idea about how to live a life that is more engaging and authentic, from personal adventures, growth and what we feed our bodies and souls to the culture that fulfills us and the traditions and new discoveries offered by the Peninsula. It is about appreciating and exploring the richness of where we live and how that understanding can enhance our lives and make them more fulfilling and happy. PUNCH MAGAZINE ADVERTISING Please call 650.383.3636 or email hello@punchmonthly.com PUBLISHED 1047 El Camino Real, Suite 202 Menlo Park, CA 94025 ©2023 by 36 Media, LLC Members Sloane Citron, David Arfin hello@punchmonthly.com punchmagazine.com PUNCH® is a registered trademark of 36 Media, LLC FOLLOW PUNCH: @punchmonthly PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM FOR EVERYTHING PUNCH, COMPLETE CALENDAR, INSIDE SCOOPS & MORE: punchmagazine.com
ANDRA NORRIS GALLERY 311 Lorton Ave (at Burlingame Ave) Burlingame, CA 94010 I tel: 650 235 9775 www.andranorrisgallery.com ART EXHIBITIONS AND SALES OF INVESTMENT QUALITY CONTEMPORARY ART FROM INTERNATIONAL, ESTABLISHED ARTISTS WITH CALIFORNIA TIES WINTER SALON November 4 - December 26, 2023 A holiday expo with 200 small works by 50 established International artists DEEP ROOTS January 13 - February 16, 2024 Alyson Belcher, Charlotte Bernstrom, Gail Chase Bien, Chikako Okada HIJINKS February 24 - March 22, 2024 Javier Arizmendi Kalb, Kim Frohsin, Jylian Gustlin Gary Bukovnik Spring Light watercolor on paper, 40 x 60 / framed 44 x 64 inches, 2023
18 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM classic. (Page 55) ’Tis the season for shopping, so we ask award-winning Burlingame stylist Amy Roseveare to share hidden treasures from her personal little black book of stores. (Page 102) And for a festive way to get it done—and de-stress—catch our tips for a Santana Row shopping staycation. (Page 43) If Peninsula rain makes you think, “Snow in Tahoe!” you’ll want to meet Gary Hohl, the impassioned winter sports equipment expert behind San Mateo’s Helm of Sun Valley. (Page 48) We also visit the Portola Valley home of Mark and Recia Blumenkranz to learn how the two physicians produce a popular Pinot Noir in their backyard vineyard. (Page 29) In Los Altos, Lonnie Zarem boldly left market research to pursue a more creative career. We trace her journey to becoming one of the most influential encaustic monotype artists. (Page 74) And don’t miss our December QuickPUNCH Q&A with Lisa McCaffrey, the NFL wife/mother and candid co-host of “Your Mom” podcast. (Page 26) This issue also marks our sixth edition of “10 Fresh Ways to Give Back.” We hope you’ll be inspired by all the creative ways you can help care for our community. (Page 108) From all of us at PUNCH, we wish you a joyous holiday season and a happy and healthy New Year. Stay in the moment and embrace every tick…tick…tick. See you in 2024! Sheri sheri@punchmonthly.com {editor’s note} Bewitched reruns at 3AM reduced time to an excruciating crawl.) But when our kids in turn began to crawl—and then walk—the chase was back on. That parenting adage, “The days are long but the years are short,” endures for good reason. And, so here we are again, chalking up another year. With each calendar flip, it’s easy to bemoan the fleeting nature of youth and aging’s many aggravations. But as I’ve struggled to reconcile both joyful milestones and heartbreaking loss in 2023, I’m constantly reminded that time—every tick, tick, tick second of it—is indeed the most precious gift. Recently, while streaming a guilty pleasure TV show (okay, it was Virgin River), I found myself backing up 10 seconds so I could write down a line. “Everyone gets to be young,” observes the character Lydie, “but not everyone is lucky enough to grow old.” So simple, but spot-on. With the holiday (often frenetic) season upon us, let’s all make a point to take pause: revel in each other’s company, soak up traditions and capture mental snapshots of both big and quiet moments. As you dive into PUNCH’s December issue, you’ll see many of those themes reflected here. Hillsborough’s Colleen Dowd Saglimbeni of CDS Interiors is known for her signature hospitality and Christmas decor. Check out Colleen’s tips for blending family heirlooms with your own personal style. (Page 69) For many, Menlo Park’s Namesake Cheesecake is a cherished holiday tradition. Discover how Cherith Spicer pays homage to a sweet legacy with a secret recipe. (Page 62) And join us at Johnny’s in Half Moon Bay to celebrate the return of a beloved coastside I can’t remember when time started speeding up. I do recall childhood dawdling along and the sensation of days seeming to last forever. As a second-grader, I have a distinct memory of being dropped at a friend’s house for a four-hour play date. “Four hours!” I exclaimed. “That’s a really long time!” In the first sleep-deprived weeks and months after each of our two daughters were born, that measured (tick...tick...tick) pace briefly returned. Or maybe it just felt like it did because we were up and awake so much more. (Pumping breast milk while watching Nick at Night’s PHOTOGRAPHY: ANNIE BARNETT
20 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM {sloane citron} passports to watches to my father’s favorite belt. I’ve tucked away dozens of mementos from my youth, from my first baseball trophy to the ribbon my dog Tamby won at a local dog show. Seeing and holding these objects gives me a great deal of pleasure and happiness. I treasure a pair of kitchen scissors that were my mom’s, having traveled from our old home to the various stops she made until her passing. When I see them, hold them, I think of her with love. And in my office closet is a large poster of my daughter Tali, clutching a big frog when she was about four. Every time I open the closet door, I get a small spark of joy. I am so glad that I kept it. Today, some “organizers” suggest taking photos of things you care about and then throwing them away, but they don’t understand that this is often a terrible mistake. Of course, being a slave to possessions is not good, but objects can have deep emotional and symbolic significance. When I see these “things,” they bring me serenity and moments of tender reflection. In addition to my great-greatgrandfather’s (Leib Citron’s) kiddush cup, which has his initials on it, I also have a beautiful, small Hanukkah menorah, a hanukkiah. Made from brass with a lion in the middle, it holds only small birthday candles. Each year at this time, I put it out with our collection of menorahs that we light. As I watch the tiny tapers glow, I am once again a six-year-old child mesmerized by the flickering flames. I love this possession and the joy it brings me. And I will forever keep it with me and then pass it along to the next generation. No photograph would do. I guess you could say, it’s in my DNA. Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah. Periodically, I receive alerts from the DNA testing company 23 and Me about new traits associated with my genetic background, newly discovered DNA relatives or other interesting insights. Indeed, once I looked at my “new” relatives and found out that I had unbeknownst first cousins (but that’s a different story). Recently, the company sent me information about my Neanderthal DNA (that we all apparently have), which was in the news since a report showed that those with higher levels of such DNA were more likely to get Covid. I thought it worth exploring so I opened the email and checked out my Neanderthal component, thinking it must be high, thus elucidating some of my more barbaric traits. It turns out that my Neanderthal DNA amount is actually lower than most, perhaps explaining why I have never gotten Covid, despite not doing much to protect myself except for getting all vaccines the moment they become available. The report listed several of my Neanderthal DNA traits and one clearly stood out: “You have two variants associated with having difficulty discarding rarely used possessions.” I’ve found that these reports from 23 and Me are usually accurate, previous reports having stated that I have blue eyes, am not going bald and that I detest cilantro. All true. So, I have grown to respect their statements about my traits and habits. My family laughed when I told them about this “new trait” since, as they know too well, it is a dominant aspect of my personality. Sometimes it’s a relief to know that it’s your genetics causing you to act in a certain way—and that you’re not just being deliberately stubborn or difficult. While I am extremely organized and don’t desire a lot of possessions, I’ll gladly admit that I love the ones that I do have and have an extremely tough time parting with any of them. Part and parcel to this is that I seem to practice anthropomorphism—the attribution of human qualities to inanimate objects. As a child, I remember watching my cousin throw a pencil out the window of my uncle’s car. All I could think about for the next hour was the poor pencil, whether it was injured or if other cars were running over it. My childhood home, which was in my family for almost 70 years, held strong emotional attachments for me. Each room, every fixture, even light switch plates, held sway over me. When I returned there as an adult, I could touch a handrail, hear the whirr of the air conditioning or look into the food pantry and be instantly transported back to my once safe and loving childhood. Walking into my sister’s bedroom triggered a rush of memories; looking at our front yard “baseball” diamond made me think of my brother Dan and our dog Tamby playing ball there. When I was inside that home for the final time, I took a few physical keepsakes and made a long video of everything so that I can forever relive those moments. Despite efforts by my family to discard mementos of my children, I have managed to save a good number of them, including all four baby blankets, Little League shirts and hats, and a large assortment of drawings, homework assignments and awards. I also have a plethora of objects from my parents and grandparents, everything from it’s in the genes
PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM 23 DECEMBER 2023 + 31 DAYS + THE HOLIDAYS! + OUR 65TH ISSUE {quickpunch} Start Up + Light the first candle on December 7, the beginning of Hanukkah. + Look skyward on December 13 for the spectacular Geminid meteors. + Celebrate the Winter Solstice, the first day of winter, on December 21. + Delight in the joyful glow and magic of Christmas on December 25. Venture Out + REVEL in the glow of Christmas light neighborhoods: Dewey Street, Redwood City; Fulton Street, Palo Alto; Eucalyptus Street, San Carlos. + SING “Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah” in Redwood City’s Courthouse Square December 10, 5:15-6:45PM. Festivities include the lighting of a grand menorah, live DJ and latkes. + CHEER on sea captains who deck their boats with holiday lights and trimmings at the Pillar Point Harbor Lighted Boat Festival December 9, 6-8PM. Well, that was quick. Years slide by while we are busy going about our days, enjoying the good times and dealing with the bad. But that is the nature of our lives, and we must strive to feel gratitude. In December, we focus on being thankful—for family, friends and joy. A breather, if you will, from the other 11 months that fill our calendar. With cold days and rain, it is our winter, and with more time inside, it is an occasion for taking stock of the beauty and ethereal pleasures of life. Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah to all! “Remember this December that love weighs more than gold.” —Charmaine J. Forde welcome back
24 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM {quickpunch} Dash to Dine + APRÉS VILLAGE—Quattro’s pop-up dining winter wonderland returns to Four Seasons Silicon Valley—2050 University Avenue, East Palo Alto + PARK & HOWARD BISTRO—Fresh seasonal neighborhood gem—1300 Howard Avenue, Burlingame + TRE MONTI—Real deal Italian at this charming trattoria—270 Main Street, Los Altos What’s in Store + LARK—Home and gift boutique with thoughtful curation. Handblown glass, woven trays, handmade ceramics and more. 641 Laurel Street, San Carlos + FIVE LITTLE MONKEYS—Kids can play, build and create with this shop’s trove of creative and educational toys, books and craft kits. 1111 Burlingame Avenue, Burlingame + MIKE’S CAMERA—Capture life’s moments. Photo, video and content creator equipment. 715 Santa Cruz Avenue, Menlo Park American Prometheus by Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin—The riveting account of Robert Oppenheimer and the atomic bomb. Afterlives by Abdulrazak Gurnah—Nobel Prize winner’s sweeping origin story of modern Tanzania and young love. Whalebone Magazine— Designed to “put a little fun and joy in the world and make people feel good.” Visually interesting and amusing. shopwhalebone.com WHO KNEW? In 1865, a franchise was issued for a toll road from San Mateo to Half Moon Bay. Partially following existing Spanish and Indian trails, the route was called San Mateo Road. Its main use was for stagecoaches that ran from the Occidental Hotel in Half Moon Bay to San Mateo. The trip was two hours of dust, weather and bumps— something to consider when you’re complaining about a traffic back-up on Highway 92 on your way to the coast. Well Read Unscramble N A S A R L O S C P I R T A R O Finally, some half-baked advice: If your dog blinks at you, blink back. It could be a code. If you have suggestions for QuickPUNCH, email us at hello@punchmonthly.com
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26 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM {quickpunch} What inspired you to create the weekly podcast “Your Mom”? Ashley Adamson, my co-host and Pac-12 reporter extraordinaire, came up with the idea when she saw me “gently” reprimand Christian at the Heisman Trophy Ceremony way back in 2015. She realized no one can humanize a kid quite like their mother. What kind of unique insights do you get talking to the moms of famous people? The biggest takeaway I have deduced from interviewing these amazing moms is that moms love their kids unconditionally and they always will, no matter what. Your husband, Ed McCaffrey, and four sons all play or coach football. What do you love/hate about the sport? If you can’t beat them, join them. I absolutely love the game of football and appreciate it for helping shape my boys into hardworking and accountable young men. I love that they found their passion, but for a mom, it can be quite a rollercoaster of emotions. What goes through your head as you watch your kid play? There is a gauntlet of emotions running through my head from snap to whistle… anxiety, stress, worry, thrill, elation, bliss, exhaustion—and that’s after a successful play. Your number one tip after raising four boys? My tip to raising all boys is to nurture your relationships with your girlfriends. You are going to need them. What’s guaranteed to make you laugh? Definitely NOT Ed’s “dad jokes.” THE Q & A LISA MCCAFFREY You’ve (joked) that you rank your kids. Explain. The criteria for my favorite kid has evolved over the years—from which one cleaned their room best to which one calls me back first. Where did you grow up and what was great about it? I grew up in Miami, Florida in the ‘80s. I mean, turn on an episode of Miami Vice and figure out for yourself what was so great about it. Favorite hangouts in your Stanford days and now? Our favorite place back in our Stanford days was the Pioneer Saloon on Friday nights. Our go-to spot now is the Alpine Inn. Any insider/behind-the-scenes takes on Levi’s Stadium? I am obsessed with the TVs in the mirrors in the bathrooms at Levi’s Stadium. I never miss a play. Name your biggest pet peeve. The biggest pet peeve I ever saw was on my aunt’s Great Dane. What age would you choose to be again and why? I actually love the age I am right now, 54. I love where I am in life. What piece of advice would you give to your younger self? I would tell my younger self to calm the f*** down. What’s the most embarrassing story you’ve shared about a son on your show? Uh-oh, dangerous territory. Give “Your Mom” a listen and I’m sure you’ll figure out which was the most embarrassing story. #shamelessplug The former Stanford soccer star, NFL wife/mother and co-host of “Your Mom” podcast shares her number one tip for raising boys, how she ranks her kids and what she’s obsessed with at Levi’s Stadium.
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FAMILY VINEYARD growing grapes words by LINDA HUBBARD • photography by GINO DE GRANDIS PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM 29 {punchline} PENINSULA CULTURE
30 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM {punchline} They initially planted their one-acre vineyard in 1995, using three different Pinot Noir clones on three different hillside blocks—all with slightly different microclimates. Some are shaded with old oaks and redwoods. Two of the blocks have a southeastern exposure and one has a northwestern exposure, which typically results in the latter being harvested two to three weeks later than the former. Over 1998 and 1999, they produced their first vintage. Mention “Blumenkranz” on the Mid-Peninsula and people are likely to immediately think “doctor.” Indeed, Mark is a retired ophthalmologist specializing in retinal disease who continues to teach at Stanford, and Recia is a not-quite-retired dermatologist practicing in Menlo Park. But talk to wine enthusiasts, and you’ll find they are known increasingly for the Burgundianstyle wine they sell, all produced from grapes grown on their Portola Valley property. Whether you call it a residential, hobby or backyard vineyard, their joint venture results in a Pinot Noir with Blumenkranz on the label. “We would drink the wine we produced ourselves and give it to friends as house gifts,” says Recia. “People seemed to really like it, and we’d get compliments.” Adds Mark: “It’s the idea of sharing—that’s the reason we decided to sell it. It’s not a business for us; it’s a passionate hobby.” Recia and Mark, who married in 1975, met when he was a medical student at Brown and she was an undergraduate. Mark knew he wanted to be a doctor since grade school—his father was a physician. Recia’s calling came later, when she was in college. In addition to their professional responsibilities, they raised three children and have three grandchildren.
32 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM {punchline} may be that the birds are more active in our vineyard because we are up on a hill with lots of trees where the birds hang out as compared with the flatter lands with fewer trees and birds. I know that’s true in Napa.” To maintain the vineyard, they pay great attention to sustainable farming practices. No chemicals are used, only organic elements. And while they manage the vineyard, they don’t make the wine. The day-to-day viticulture, crush and winemaking is handled under contract by Coastal Range Vineyards, who provide that service to a number of private vineyard estates in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Mark works closely with Peter Kirchner, Coastal Range’s principal winemaker. They jointly determine how the wine is produced. “We both share a common philosophy of the primacy of the fruit in that process, and the need for the wine to express the They’ve both always enjoyed the wines of Burgundy, France. Now they enjoy discovering how each vintage produced from their vineyard is distinct. To get the grape vines planted, Mark enlisted the help of a former patient, Steve Pessagno, who had worked at a number of larger vineyards. “He and I literally physically planted the grapes,” recounts Mark, who explains that the land is ideally suited to growing grapes. “It was chosen by Leland Stanford for horses and grapes in the late 19th century. It’s a combination of the soil and the light and the climate. Plus, we get coastal fog and also have great sun. You could plant anything here! And grapes are relatively drought-resistant and provide a good fire break.” To combat birds eating the grapes, they cover the vines with netting. “I’m surprised that more people here aren’t using nets,” observes Mark. “It
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34 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM unique terroir of its origin,” says Mark. “We favor a more nuanced Burgundian style, with minimal handling and very light oak, rather than the heavier fruit-bombs that have become somewhat popular in certain regions.” Both harvest time (October 2 and 23 this year) and the winemaking take into account the varying degrees of sunlight and precipitation as well as other climatic and environmental factors that affect grape yield and quality. “That typically influences the particulars of fermentation and length and type of barreling chosen,” Mark continues. “We attempt to balance the need for the wine to be enjoyed early but have sufficient structure to evolve and improve over time as well.” The couple thought about buying more land elsewhere, such as in the Petaluma Gap or Sierra foothills. “But at the end of the day, we produce more wine than we can drink— about 50 cases a year,” says Mark. “We’re just lucky that people are willing to buy it and give it a try.” The wine is available at Roberts Markets in Portola Valley and Woodside as well as Bianchini’s in Portola Valley and San Carlos. It’s also served at Portola Kitchen in the Ladera Shopping Center. “I do tastings at Bianchini’s during their Buy Local promotions,” shares Recia. “It’s always so much fun seeing so many old friends and patients!” Both Recia and Mark underscore that they’ve always liked living in rural environments. Miniature olive trees dot the property, and they grow a lot of the food they eat. They view themselves as gentleman/woman farmers living off the land. And they are grateful for what the land gives them. {punchline}
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36 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM {punchline} PERFECT SHOT candy cane lane On assignment for PUNCH, photographer Gino De Grandis documented the festivities on the 1200 block of Dewey Street in Redwood City—AKA Candy Cane Lane. “As I was taking pictures of the houses all decked out for Christmas,” Gino describes, “a little girl with a sparkly light passed by and I was lucky to capture it at the perfect moment to create this unique effect.” Image by Gino De Grandis / luiphotography.com
PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM 37 calling all shutterbugs If you’ve captured a unique perspective of the Peninsula, we’d love to see your Perfect Shot. Email us at hello@punchmonthly.com to be considered for publication.
38 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM {punchline} calling all dogs If you’ve got quirky habits or a funny tale (or tail) to share, email hello@punchmonthly.com for a chance to share a page from your Diary of a Dog in PUNCH. All sales at The Pick benefit shelter animals at PHS/SPCA, so I can’t think of a better way to spend my time. After a quick brushing to look my best, I arrive at 11:30AM and swing by the treat jar to mark the official start of my shift. I systematically check out every corner of the store (Call it the Terrier in me!) and then patiently wait for Maureen to research and price donated items, which are placed on the shelf of a rolling cart. It’s my job to supervise, so I always jump aboard to make sure every item is delivered to the right place in the store. From one department to the next, I multitask by greeting every shopper and pup I see. Mid-shift, Maureen and I go out for a walk and swing by Starbucks for a Puppuccino. (That’s complimentary whipped cream in a cup, if you haven’t had the pleasure.) I average about six cart rides a day at The Pick, and then I frequently pull extra shifts with Rich at Home Depot. He’s a general contractor, and he counts on me to help pick up supplies. Here’s a happy coincidence I’ve noticed: Whenever I’m riding in a cart, I always have a view of people smiling back at me. As a rescue, I didn’t come into this world as the “pick of the litter,” but I definitely landed on my paws. Back in 2013, Rich and Maureen adopted me from Peninsula Humane Society (PHS) and brought me home to Burlingame. They named me Norman after the calf that was rescued in the movie City Slickers, and I’ve been one lucky dog ever since. Like Maureen, I volunteer at a Burlingame thrift store appropriately called, “The Pick of the Litter,” or “The Pick,” as we regulars know it. norman DIARY OF A DOG photography by ROBB MOST
The holiday season has arrived, and Peninsula Lively Arts is set to captivate audiences with not one, but two delightful renditions of the timeless classic, Nutcracker. Families and enthusiasts need not traverse long distances, as performances will be held at the Fox Theatre in Redwood City. Embracing the Peninsula spirit, these enchanting performances promise to bring the magic of the season closer to home. Nutcracker: A Timeless Tradition On Friday December 15th 7pm and Saturday 16th 2pm, the Fox Theatre will come alive with the graceful twirls and mesmerizing melodies of the Nutcracker, choreographed by Artistic Director Gregory Amato. This traditional rendition, performed by Peninsula Ballet Theatre Company, pays homage to the cherished story of Clara and her magical Nutcracker Prince. Set against a backdrop of exquisite sets and costumes, the production promises to transport audiences to a world of wonder and delight. Hip-Hop Nutcracker: A Modern Twist For those seeking a contemporary spin on the classic tale, Hip-Hop Nutcracker choreographed by Stuck Sanders, will hit the Fox Theatre stage on December Saturday 16th 7pm and Sunday 17th 2pm. This innovative performance fuses Tchaikovsky’s timeless score with hip-hop dance, creating a vibrant and dynamic spectacle that appeals to audiences of all ages. Experience the story of Clara as it’s reimagined through the infectious energy of hip-hop, promising an unforgettable journey through music and movement. Classic and Hip-Hop Nutcracker Sweet: Catering to the youngest audience For the little ones, an edited, shorter version of Nutcracker, known as Nutcracker Sweet, will be performed at the Peninsula Ballet Theatre in San Mateo on December 2nd and 3rd at 12:30pm, 2:30pm, and 4:30pm. This enchanting adaptation ensures that even the youngest members of the family can experience the joy of the ballet in a kidfriendly format. Hip-Hop Nutcracker Sweet will be performed at the Peninsula Ballet Theatre Studios in San Mateo on December 9th and 10th at 12:30pm, 2:30pm, and 4:30pm. This adaptation ensures that the magic of hip-hop and the Nutcracker story are accessible to even the tiniest toes, making it a perfect introduction to the world of dance for young children. Staying Local A great advantage of these Peninsula-based performances is the convenience they offer to local families. Instead of enduring long drives and hectic travel schedules, residents can simply head to the Fox Theatre in Redwood City, immersing themselves in the holiday magic without the stress of a lengthy commute. This accessibility ensures that the community can fully participate in the joy of the season without the added hassle. A Holiday Treat for the Entire Family Whether you prefer the elegance of classical ballet or the modern beats of hip-hop, the Peninsula Lively Arts’ Nutcracker productions cater to a diverse range of tastes. Both Nutcracker and Hip-Hop Nutcracker promise to deliver awe-inspiring performances, captivating audiences young and old. With the addition of the kid-friendly adaptations, even the smallest members of the family can revel in the holiday magic. This season, let Peninsula Lively Arts enchant you and your loved ones with their spectacular Nutcracker productions. So, mark your calendars, gather your family, and prepare to be whisked away into the enchanting world of Nutcracker right here in our own community. SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT Peninsula Lively Arts Presents Two Nutcrackers at the Fox Theatre Redwood City and Nutcracker Sweet at the Peninsula Ballet Theatre Studios Unwrapping Holiday Magic PERFORMANCE DATES Nutcracker Sweet Dec 2-3 Hip-Hop Nutcracker Sweet Dec 9-10 Nutcracker Dec 15-16 Hip-Hop Nutcracker Dec 16-17 TICKETS NOW ON SALE peninsulalivelyarts.org Fox Theatre 2215 Broadway, Redwood City CA 94063 Peninsula Ballet Theatre 1880 S. Grant St. San Mateo CA 94402
#3 Small Team ENTIRE Bay Area, 2023 #12 Small Team USA, 2023 $1B+ SOLD Judy Citron 650.400.8424 | judy@judycitron.com DRE 01825569 Talia Citron Knapp 650.400.8424 | talia@taliacitron.com DRE 01987761 LAUGHTER MEANING PEACE WISHING YOU A WONDERFUL HOLIDAY SEASON FILLED WITH Dedicated to the finest real estate representation Atherton, Menlo Park, Palo Alto, Woodside, Portola Valley and surrounding cities
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PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM 43 STAYCATION ho ho ho, santana row {due west} words by JOHANNA HARLOW TRAVEL & WELLNESS PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF COLLETTE NAVARRETTE
44 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM {due west} Vuori, Scotch & Soda, Paige, Boutique Harajuku and Marine Layer. For the make-it-yourself crew, fuel their creativity with DIY supplies from Paper Source. Beyond the rubber stamps, washi tape and scrapbook supplies, the store also stocks quirky items. Think adult picture books like I Will Not Die Alone and Sad Animal Facts, therapeutic coloring books and funky calendars (including a literary/catthemed one with illustrations of Meowby Dick and The Great Catsby). On behalf of the outdoorsman (or woman), make the trek to Yeti for all things camping, hunting and fishing. And don’t forget the stocking stuffers! Maido offers an eclecSeasonal Shopping Knock out your seasonal shopping in one sweep with Santana Row’s more than 50 apparel, home and specialty stores. We suggest warming up with an exploratory lap to get a lay of the land. Admire the Row’s elaborate window displays, daydream yourself into the cute apartments perched above its shops and count the Bugattis and Lamborghinis revving up and down its main drag. At Makers Market, you’ll find gifts for anyone who appreciates one-of-a-kind craftsmanship. Among its offerings: handmade leather bags, knives inlaid with fossilized mammoth teeth and engraved wooden journals. For your fashion-forward family members and friends, drop by shops like So you’re neck-deep in December—and drowning in the demands of the holidays. Whether you’re decking the halls or getting ready for eight crazy nights of Hanukkah, it’s easy to feel more frantic than festive. Here’s a way to get it done and de-stress: a holiday staycation. Consider Santana Row, San Jose’s luxury shopping and dining destination. It’s impossible to hold onto a grinch mindset while wandering this magical “village within a city” of twinkling lights, lamps festooned in garlands, upscale restaurants, high-end boutiques… and is that a prehistoric-sized reindeer?
PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM 45 PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF EL JARDIN / JOHANNA HARLOW tic selection of manatee tea infusers, kitty chopsticks and adorable plushies (smiling avocados, dinos and mermaid cats, oh my). When you and your credit card need to catch your breath, visit the Santana Row Park deck. Settle into a wicker patio chair and listen to live music under a hulking oak festooned in lights. Holiday Feast After all that shopping, you’ll have worked up an appetite. Fortunately, just about everywhere you turn, you’ll find restaurants (30 of them) with ample indoor seating and lamp-heated European-style patios. For sushi in a sophisticated setting, Ozumo serves all the traditional classics and an array of innovative entrees to satisfy both Grandma and the Gen Z crowd. With its dedication to quality ingredients (meaning snow crab rather than imitation filler in even the California rolls) as well as some playful wrestlingtitled items on the menu, Ozumo pins down a win in the sushi scene. You might also nibble your way through Meso Modern Mediterranean’s fluffy pita and flatbreads or Zazil’s sizzling fajitas and carnitas. Or sink your teeth into L.B Steak’s boneless ribeye, tomahawk, porterhouse and Wagyu in a swanky space swathed in red with cheeky cowhide chairs. For more casual (but still satisfying) venues, dine at Dumpling Time or Pizza Antica. Afterward, enter El Jardin, an enchanting al fresco bar overflowing with live music, plants and trellises. For wines buttery to bold (or 180 kinds of whisky curated by an in-house whisky sommelier), head for Vintage Wine Bar. (You can’t miss it: Look for the building resembling a medieval limestone church.) Here, you’ll have plenty of savory, sweet and salty bites to tease your tastebuds with pairings so explore how the tang of roasted tomatoes, the smokiness of the meat pâté and the earthiness of the truffle chips dialogue with your palate. Got room for dessert? Stop by Smitten Ice Cream for exploratory scoops with flavors like Cinnamon Toast or Earl Grey with chocolate chips. Or swing by Cocola, a longstanding French-style patisserie, for macarons and a mocha.
46 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM revive at the row santanarow.com {due west} PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF HOTEL VALENCIA SANTANA ROW / COURTESY OF BURKE WILLIAMS DAY SPA Santa Cruz Mountains at Cielo Rooftop Bar. If you’re growing peckish again, savor late-night tapas at Oveja Negra. Be sure to try the patatas bravas seasoned with earthy paprika and a creamy roasted garlic aioli as well as the braised beef cheeks served in a hearty red wine reduction. Let It Glow In the morning, make your way next-door to Burke Williams Day Spa for a revitalizing acupressure facial or massage (shiatsu, Thai, Swedish, deep tissue, take your pick). Before your appointment, arrive early to unwind those And to All a Good Night After a full day, it’s time to retire to Hotel Valencia at the heart of the Row. Each room has an enchanting Mediterranean design illuminated with cozy lamps. Upgrade to a room with a bougainvillea-entwined balcony facing the patio and you’ll gain a front-row seat to live Latin/ flamenco acoustic guitar music (performed most nights). You’ll also want to check out the hotel’s diverse in-house eating/drinking services. Settle down with a nightcap at Vbar (an intimate, low-lit venue) or soak in panoramic night views of the tense muscles with a soak in the whirlpool, a session in the sauna and a serene moment with a cup of house-made vanilla lemongrass tea in the pillow-strewn lounge. Be sure to check out their holiday-themed packages, which range from Merry Moments (with a Pure Relaxation Massage and choice of hot stones, detox or aromatherapy enhancements), Let It Glow (which adds a spa-style facial to the equation) to the comprehensive Our Favorite Things (which combines multiple massages and facials with a scented bath and three-day spa pass). Winter Wonderland Even Santa makes time in his insane schedule to stop in San Jose. Snag pics with St. Nick and join in other festive fun during Spirit of the Row, hosted every Tuesday December evening from 6-8PM. Heat your hands with a hot cider while watching Nutcracker ballerinas plié and pirouette, then venture to Park Valencia for snow showers and holiday tunes on the half-hour. Look for snow flurries in the forecast every Saturday evening as well. As you head back home, you’ll be glowing with the joy of the season.
Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01866771. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate. Nick Granoski | 650-269-8556 Nick@GranoskiWeil.com DRE 00994196 David Weil | 650-823-3855 David@GranoskiWeil.com DRE 01400271 No one knows our local real estate market like Granoski | Weil & Associates. Led by veteran real estate professionals and local residents, Nick Granoski and David Weil, our team brings unmatched local knowledge, insight, expertise, and connections to home buyers and sellers in this unique market. When it comes to local real estate, we’ve seen and covered it all. We’ve got this. Peninsula real estate right now. Active Listing: Exquisitely Designed Modern Home 2060 Mills Avenue | Menlo Park New price: 4,998,000 Active Listing: Exquisite Spanish Colonial 11 Southgate Drive | Woodside New price: $8,998,000 Active Listing: Remodeled California Contemporary 155 Willowbrook Drive | Portola Valley Offered at: $6,198,000 COMBINED YEARS EXPERIENCE 50+ RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE SALES $2B+ RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS 600+
48 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM If you’re a ski buff growing up on the Peninsula, winter rain means just one thing: snow in Tahoe! That’s what Menlo Park’s Gary Hohl remembers most about his childhood. When the wet stuff began to fall, it wouldn’t be long before his family loaded up the car. “Growing up, it was a station-wagon-baggedlunch kind of thing, when a lift ticket cost $12 and a season pass was a whop- {due west} ping $125,” smiles Gary, as he describes frequent Highway 80 trips up to the High Sierra. Back in the ’70s and ’80s, hitting the slopes was a fashionbackwards kind of activity, he reminisces, where you could throw on whatever winter-ish clothes you could toss together. Frequently, it was a carefully Scotchguarded pair of jeans paired with a hand-me-down sweatshirt for the annual rite of spring skiing. In addition to flying down the mountain in his favorite Levi’s, Gary’s favorite memory is the uninterrupted time he spent with his parents, and more recently, the precious time he’s had with his own spouse and two sons, all because of skiing. “Skiing or boarding is one of the only times you can find yourself alone with your child,” notes Gary, who reflects how rare that is today, especially quality time that’s free of devices. “Some of the best conversations I’ve ever had with my family were on a chairlift. Even now, I ski with my kids more than anyone else. It’s a lifelong bond.” It’s no stretch to say that Gary Hohl is an expert on the subject of local snow sports. Raised in Burlingame, he started skiing at the age of nine. Then, after EQUIPMENT hit the slopes words by CHRISTINA EWING
50 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM {due west} several memorable years of mogul mashing, there he was—a teenager working at Helm of Sun Valley Ski Shop in San Mateo, a job he kept all the way through junior college and college. “It wasn’t work,” he says. “It was a lot of fun and something I always looked forward to.” After graduating from UC Davis, Gary took a job with Kraft Foods as a quality manager in rural Idaho. Less than two years into it, the phone rang with a career- and life-altering offer. “My old manager called and said, ‘Do you want to buy a ski shop?’” he recounts. Gary didn’t have to think too hard: “I said, ‘Sure!’” Four decades later, Gary is still the guy in charge. To clear up any confusion: the original Helm ing and a great day is a well-fitting boot. “The cornerstone of our business is boot-fitting,” he says. “What we’re really good at is analyzing people’s feet and then matching a boot up to that foot and that person’s needs.” Don’t expect to see a giant wall of boots on display. After factoring ability level and aspirations into the puzzle, staff duck into the back and bring out recommended styles for consideration. Customization also plays a vital role. “We’re able to customize boots in many different ways— punching, carving, grinding,” Gary notes, citing examples like molding a boot to accommodate a big toe bunion or boosting comfort and performance through after-market liners. And, he points ABOVE: Gary Hohl (second from left) with his wife Debra Yoder and sons Michael and Brian in front of his San Mateo ski and snowboard shop. was in Sun Valley, Idaho, as befits the name. Westward expansion brought the store to California, where the San Mateo location has been a community fixture for over 63 years. “There aren’t a whole lot of businesses that can say that and we are proud of it,” says Gary. Today, as in years past, Gary’s passion is to get anyone and everyone out there enjoying snow sports and taking full advantage of the Peninsula’s close proximity to the mountains. From experience, Gary believes that the difference between a good day skiing or boardPHOTOGRAPHY: IRENE SEARLES
Keyko Pintz Realtor® DRE# 02011298 650.224.9815 | kpintz@intero.com keykopintz.agent.intero.com ©️ 2023 Intero, a Berkshire Hathaway Affiliate and wholly owned subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc. All rights reserved. The logo is a registered trademark of Intero Real Estate Services, Inc. Square footage has been received from one or more sources. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. If important to buyer(s) they should conduct their own verification investigation. Located just two blocks to downtown, this exquisite home sets new standards in eco-conscious living 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths; Approx. 3,249 square feet Existing Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) of approx. 810 square feet Lot size of approx. 20,900 square feet Offered at $7,800,000 The Epitome of Sustainable Luxury Living PENDING SALE | 131 Garland Way, Los Altos USE THE QR CODE AND WATCH THE BEAUTIFUL VIDEO to learn more about this magnificent home and why it was PENDING SALE IN JUST 3 DAYS! INTRODUCING Hummingbird Homes KeyKo + monica 131Garland.com
52 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM out, getting cold feet is no longer an excuse for not skiing. “The number-one thing is to get a boot heater that’s permanently affixed into your boot that runs on a lithium ion battery,” he guides. He’s also a big fan of the heated boot bag: “So many people struggle getting their boots on in the morning, and this just completely solves the problem.” If Gary has one mission, it’s to clear up a misconception. “So many skiers and boarders think painful boots are just something you have to tolerate,” he says. “I’m amazed that people come in with that attitude and it really doesn’t have to be that way. Boots have gotten so much more comfortable over the years.” As a shop run by skiers and snowboarders, Helm’s offerings include all the essential equipment and accessories, plus shop work and even season leases. “If you are skiing or snowboarding more than two weekends per season,” Gary advises, “then leasing is a great way to save money, along with time and hassle.” In what may sound like an impossibility, Gary insists that famicustom fit helm-sport.com lies can still hit the slopes on a budget—they just have to get creative and go off the beaten path. Consider buying used equipment and clothing (look for Helm’s annual Ski and Snowboard Swap every November)—and aim for smaller “mom-and-pop” resorts like Boreal, Sierra Ski Ranch and Dodge Ridge. “I grew up skiing at Dodge Ridge,” Gary shares, “and I still go there nowadays. It’s easy to get to, and it’s never crowded.” Whether you have a preference for skiing or boarding, packed or powder, Gary says time on the mountain equates to treasured family memories for seasons— and generations—to come. PHOTOGRAPHY: IRENE SEARLES {due west}
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