The Bookstores of Marin

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The Bookstores of Marin

Marin County is home to a slew of authors, readers, poets, songwriters/singers and, naturally, book slingers whose job it is to keep up with the voracious appetites of various patrons and their ever-changing literary preferences.

Marin’s bookshops offer up products new and used for patrons to peruse and maybe amuse themselves throughout these blissful springtime weeks ahead. Whether one wants to read a romance novel in the park with a picnic or tackle an adventure tale told only in rhyme, Marin is bound to have exactly the kind of read one seeks this spring…perhaps even an elusive copy of Marin’s most local and beloved satirical serial novel, the Pacific Sun’s own The Serial.

Book Passage

Book Passage is the place to go for a lively literary scene this spring. Not only can customers enjoy a wide array of literature spanning every genre and age range; they may also stop by to witness one of the many upcoming author talks Book Passage is positively famous for.

Coming up on April 6, for instance, is an author talk at the Corte Madera Book Passage location by Robert Steers, author of Plants of Mount Tamalpais. On the same day, Jennifer Croft is set to make an appearance with Nancy Jooyoun Kim to talk all about The Extinction of Irena Rey. On April 7, Greg Sarris and Jane Ciabattari will speak at Book Passage about The Forgetters.

Book Passage hosts events online and in both store locations (Corte Madera and the San Francisco Ferry Building). So, for those who favor listening to authors talk about their pieces and experiences, Book Passage is a fantastic bet.

Book Passage is located at 51 Tamal Vista Blvd. in Corte Madera—they are open from 10am to 6pm Mon. through Sat., and from 11am to 6pm Sun. To learn more about Book Passage and its upcoming events, call 415.927.0960 or visit the Book Passage website at bookpassage.com.

Copperfield’s Books

Copperfield’s Books offers a playful assortment of items in all their locations. Even those who enter intent on buying one specific book have a good chance of leaving with a birthday card from a local artist, a new bookmark, some candles, a stuffed animal, a tarot deck, three extra books about birdwatching and a partridge in a pear tree too. In other words, Copperfield’s is the eclectic shopper’s ideal location and a great place to buy gifts (for others as well as oneself).

The Novato Copperfield’s Books is open 10am to 6pm Sun. through Thurs., and from 10am to 7pm Fri. and Sat. They’re located at 999 Grant Ave., Ste. 105. For more information about the Novato location, call the front desk at 415.763.3052.

San Rafael’s Copperfield’s Books is open 10am to 6pm Mon. through Sat., and from 10am to 5pm Sun. Visit the San Rafael location at 1200 4th St. To get in contact with the San Rafael Copperfield’s Books, call 415.524.2800.

The Larkspur location for Copperfield’s Books is open from 10am to 6pm Mon. through Sat., and from 10am to 5pm on Sun. Visit the Larkspur Copperfield’s Books at the Marin County Mart, located at 2419 Larkspur Landing Cir. Call 415.870.9843 to contact this location.

Mill Valley Depot Café and Bookstore

For the readers of Marin who want to browse some books, buy an exciting new piece of literature and then enjoy it with a brew (be it coffee, tea or even a fresh, cold beer), the Mill Valley Depot Café and Bookstore is the place to go. In other words, this is the ideal place for people-watching, page-turning and nibbling/sipping on something in the process.

The bookstore is open from 8:30am to 6pm Sun. through Wed., 8:30am to 6:30pm Thurs.

and 8:30am to 7:30pm Fri. and Sat. Note, the hours of the café and the bookstore at the Mill Valley Depot Café and Bookstore differ slightly. The Mill Valley Depot Café and Bookstore is located at 87 Throckmorton Ave. To learn more about this establishment, visit the website at depotcafeandbookstore.com, send an email to in**@de*******************.com or call 415.888.3648.

Point Reyes Books

This historical bookstore is at the height of its glory, which is saying something considering its doors first opened to local clientele in 1969. But the readable offerings on display at this place are anything but outdated—in fact, Point Reyes Books offers perhaps the most cutting-edge collection of intriguing and unique books in Marin. For the book lovers out there who want to find something new or expand their horizons, visit Point Reyes Books and prepare to be amazed.

Point Reyes Books is open daily from 10am to 5pm on weekdays and from 10am to 6pm on the weekend. Visit Point Reyes Books at 11315 State Route 1 or, to learn more before driving out to Point Reyes Station, visit the website at ptreyesbooks.com, email bo***@pt**********.com or call 415.663.1542.

Rebound Bookstore

If secondhand books are what one seeks, look no further than the aptly named Rebound Bookstore in San Rafael. Located next to many cafes and cute spots to sit and read for a spell, Rebound Bookstore is one of the best places to go in Marin to take a book from a shelf and give it a second chance at life.

Rebound Bookstore, also called ‘The Biggest Little Bookstore In The Universe,’ is located at 1611 4th St. in San Rafael—the hours of operation are from 11am to 5pm Mon. through Sat. Rebound Bookstore is closed on Sundays. To learn more, visit the website at reboundbookstore.com or call 415.482.0550.

Sugarfoot Books Inc.

Woman-owned and specializing in children’s books as well as new pieces of fiction, San Anselmo’s Sugarfoot Books Inc. is hands down a literary destination to visit in Marin this spring, especially if supporting a small business by buying books with big stories sounds appealing.

Sugarfoot Books Inc. is located at 615 San Anselmo Ave. in San Anselmo. This Marin Bookstore is open daily from 10am to 6pm Sun. through Thurs., and from 10am to 8pm Fri. and Sat. To learn more about Sugarfoot Books Inc., call 415.459.7323.

Wayfinder Bookshop

Wayfinder Bookshop is locally owned and operated by the same local couple that took over the historical Point Reyes Books location from its previous owner. Needless to say, this bookish establishment is new, but the people behind the counter are expert book slingers and literary daydreamers.

Wayfinder Bookshop is open from 11am to 7pm daily and is located at 9 Bolinas Rd. in Fairfax—for more information or to order a book, call 415.295.7318, or visit the website at ptreyesbooks.com.

The Comprehensive Guide to Waxing Kits: Everything You Need to Know

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The Comprehensive Guide to Waxing Kits: Everything You Need to Know

Sponsored content by Levitated Media

Waxing is a popular hair removal method that offers longer-lasting results compared to shaving, making it a preferred choice for many seeking smooth, hair-free skin. A waxing kit can be an excellent investment for those looking to achieve salon-quality results at home. This comprehensive guide covers everything from the basics of waxing kits to choosing the right one for your needs, along with step-by-step instructions and tips for a successful waxing experience.

Understanding Waxing Kits

A waxing kit typically includes all the essentials you need to perform a waxing session at home. These kits vary in contents but generally contain wax, a heating method, application tools and post-waxing care products. The type of wax can vary, with options including hard wax, soft wax and pre-made wax strips, each suited for different waxing preferences and areas of the body.

Types of Wax

  • Hard Wax: Hard wax is applied warm and allowed to cool and harden before being removed. It’s ideal for sensitive areas like the face and bikini line because it adheres to the hair rather than the skin, reducing discomfort and irritation.
  • Soft Wax: Soft wax is applied thinly and removed using cloth or paper strips. It’s effective for larger areas like legs and arms and provides exfoliation benefits but can be more painful and irritating for sensitive skin.
  • Pre-made Wax Strips: These strips are convenient and mess-free, perfect for touch-ups or on-the-go waxing. They require no heating and can be used on various body parts, although they may be less effective on coarse hair.

Essential Components of a Waxing Kit

  • Wax Warmer: A device that evenly heats the wax to the optimal temperature, ensuring consistent results and reducing the risk of burns.
  • Application Tools: These can include wooden sticks or spatulas for spreading the wax and cloth or paper strips for soft wax removal.
  • Pre- and Post-Waxing Care Products: Lotions, oils or serums that prepare the skin before waxing and soothe it afterward, minimizing irritation and promoting healing.
  • Instruction Manual: A guide that provides detailed instructions and tips for effective and safe waxing.

Choosing the Right Waxing Kit

When selecting a waxing kit, consider the following factors to find one that best suits your needs:

  • Skin Type: If you have sensitive skin, look for kits with gentle wax formulas and soothing pre- and post-waxing products.
  • Area of Use: Different waxes are better suited for different areas. For example, facial wax should be gentler than leg wax.
  • Hair Type: Coarser hair might require a stronger wax formulation for effective removal.
  • Experience Level: Beginners might prefer a kit with detailed instructions and easier application methods, such as pre-made strips.
  • Budget: Waxing kits come in various price ranges, so choose one that offers good value without compromising on quality.

How to Use a Waxing Kit: Step-by-Step Guide

  • Prepare Your Skin: Cleanse the area to remove oils and impurities. Apply a pre-waxing lotion if provided, which can help protect the skin and improve wax adherence.
  • Heat the Wax: If using hard or soft wax, heat it in the wax warmer until it reaches a honey-like consistency. Test the temperature on a small skin area to avoid burns.
  • Apply the Wax: Using an applicator stick spread a thin, even layer of wax in the direction of hair growth. For hard wax, wait until it hardens; for soft wax, immediately apply a strip over the wax.
  • Remove the Wax: With a firm motion, remove the wax against the direction of hair growth. For hard wax, lift an edge and pull away; for soft wax, press down on the strip and zip it off quickly.
  • Soothe the Skin: After waxing, apply a post-waxing lotion or oil to soothe the skin and reduce redness and irritation.

Tips for a Successful Waxing Experience

  • Check the Length of Your Hair: Hair should be about ¼ inch long for the wax to grip effectively.
  • Avoid Waxing Irritated or Damaged Skin: Wait for any cuts, burns or rashes to heal before waxing.
  • Exfoliate Regularly: Exfoliating between waxing sessions can prevent ingrown hairs and ensure smoother results.
  • Test the Wax Temperature: Always test the wax on a small area of your skin to prevent burns.
  • Follow Aftercare Instructions: Avoid sun exposure, hot showers or abrasive treatments on the waxed area for at least 24 hours.

Common Questions About Waxing Kits

Q: Can I use a waxing kit on any part of my body?

A: Most kits are versatile enough for use on various body parts, but it’s essential to choose the right type of wax and follow specific instructions for different areas. For instance, hard wax is better for sensitive zones like the bikini area or face, while soft wax is more suitable for larger, less sensitive areas like legs and arms.

Q: How often should I wax?

A: The frequency of waxing can depend on your hair growth cycle and personal preference. Generally, it’s recommended to wax every 3 to 6 weeks to maintain smooth skin and ensure hair is long enough for effective removal.

Q: Is waxing painful?

A: Pain tolerance varies from person to person, but waxing can be uncomfortable, especially in sensitive areas. The pain typically diminishes with regular waxing as the hair grows back finer and sparser. Using products designed to numb the skin before waxing or soothe it afterward can also help reduce discomfort.

Q: How can I prevent ingrown hairs after waxing?

A: Regular exfoliation can help prevent ingrown hairs by removing dead skin cells that can clog pores and trap hairs. Additionally, using post-waxing products that contain ingredients like salicylic acid can keep the skin clear and reduce the likelihood of ingrown hairs.

Q: Can I wax at home if I have never done it before?

A: Yes, many waxing kits are designed with beginners in mind and come with detailed instructions. It’s important to follow these guidelines closely and start with a small area to practice the technique. Watching tutorial videos or consulting a professional for tips can also be beneficial.

Q: How can I achieve the best results with a home waxing kit?

A: For the best results, ensure your hair is the right length, your skin is clean and dry and you have the necessary tools and products on hand. Apply the wax in the direction of hair growth and remove it against the grain. After waxing, avoid touching the area to prevent irritation or infection.

Q: Are there any long-term effects of waxing?

A: With consistent waxing, hair growth can become finer and less dense over time. However, it’s important to use proper techniques and care for the skin to avoid potential issues like scarring or changes in skin pigmentation. Consulting a dermatologist or professional esthetician can provide personalized advice based on your skin type and hair growth.

In Conclusion

Waxing kits offer a convenient and cost-effective way to achieve long-lasting hair removal at home. By understanding the different types of wax, essential components of a kit and proper application techniques, you can select the right product for your needs and enjoy smooth, hair-free skin. Remember to follow pre- and post-waxing care instructions to minimize discomfort and maintain healthy skin. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time user, a waxing kit can be a valuable addition to your personal care routine, providing professional results in the comfort of your home.

Best of Marin 2024 Ballot

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Best of Marin 2024 Ballot

The Pacific Sun Best of Marin 2024 Readers Poll

For over 60 years, the Pacific Sun has shone a spotlight on the best that Marin County as to offer. Now it’s time to turn to you, our loyal readers, to share what makes our region the finest place to live, work, and revel, through our annual Best of Marin readers poll!  From March 27 to May 15, 2024, we invite you to cast your votes for your Marin favorites across a diverse array of categories, including Arts & Culture, Beauty, Health & Wellness, Cannabis, Everyday Life, Family, Food & Drink, Beer, Wine & Spirits, Home Improvement, Fitness & Recreation, and Romance. Get ready for the grand reveal on August 14, 2024, when we announce the winners in our most anticipated issue of the year — The Best of Marin 2024!

A few online voting rules:

  • Complete at least 20 votes of the ballot for inclusion in the poll
  • Include your name and a valid email address
  • Ballots are confidential, but you may be called to confirm your vote
  • Multiple ballots from a single IP address or sender may result in a winner’s disqualification
  • Deadline for online ballots is May 15, 2024

Click Here to Get Started

Restaurateur Peter Schumacher of Mill Valley

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Restaurateur Peter Schumacher of Mill Valley

There was a time when Mill Valley just felt like a quiet extension of San Francisco, at least when it came to eating and going out. I credit Peter Schumacher and his partners with changing all that.

What do you do? I’m the co-owner of Playa, Bungalow 44, Buckeye Roadhouse and the soon-to-open Corner Bar. I grew up in the restaurant business; my grandparents and my parents had restaurants back in Switzerland. I cooked in some of the best restaurants for 10 years, which adds a lot to my understanding of how to run my own establishments.

Where do you live? Mill Valley. I felt an immediate connection with Marin—my longing to live in California with a good injection of the outdoor Swiss lifestyle suited me right away.

How long have you lived in Marin? My wife and I moved from Zurich via a six-year stint in NYC in 1991.

Where can we find you when you’re not at work? On my deck, enjoying the morning sun with my wife and dogs. Then either on the tennis court, on a mountain bike ride, or at TJ’s Gym or Sausalito Crossfit. I love to ski Palisades; even coming from Switzerland, that mountain never gets old.

If you had to convince someone how awesome Marin is, where would you take them? Use an e-bike, start in Sausalito at Cavallo Point, ride along the water through Sausalito towards Tiburon for lunch at Sam’s. Then towards downtown Mill Valley, shop a little, and have drinks and a bite at Playa before catching a show at Sweetwater, or Comedy Night at 142 Throckmorton.

What’s one thing Marin is missing? A fun place that has energy past 9pm. That’s why my partners and I are opening up Corner Bar this spring. It will hopefully make downtown Mill Valley stay alive after the dinner hour.

What’s one bit of advice you’d share with your fellow Marinites? We’re all truly blessed to live here and should treat each other accordingly, which for the most part people do. Let’s try and pass it forward.

If you could invite anyone to a special dinner, who would they be?

Wolfgang Puck, Danny Meyer, Angela Merkel, Roger Federer, Trevor Noah.

What is some advice you wish you knew 20 years ago? Don’t sweat the small stuff. Life throws you enough big curves.

What is something that in 20 years from now will seem cringeworthy? Polluting gas cars.

Big question. What is one thing you’d do to change the world? Invasions and power-hungry leaders are unacceptable to our planet. Future generations will never forgive us.

Nish Nadaraja was on the founding team at Yelp, serves on the San Anselmo Arts Commission and attempts to play pickleball at Fairfax’s Cañon Club.

To Dye For: Natural Easter Egg Dyes

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To Dye For: Natural Easter Egg Dyes

Easter is right around the corner, and that means it’s time to pick up some eggs and decorate their shells in pretty shades of spring pastels.

But what if, instead of store bought food coloring or questionable dye kits from online, Marin locals could simply walk outside and find dyes just outside their door? Well, one may or may not be surprised to learn that some Marinites are already doing just that. And not just for eggs, but for woodcraft, dresses, scarves and scrunchies too.

One such expert on foraging local dye is Sarah Kleiner, founder and owner of her own natural dye company called Cybele. And though her specialty is cloth, Kleiner thinks the idea of getting kids out in nature and hunting for dyes is quite exciting. Keep in mind that not all natural dye ingredients are edible. So those who wish to experiment with inedible natural dyes can instead decorate wooden eggs that can be saved and used again each year.

“[Foraging for egg dyes] can make the Easter egg hunt a whole interactive process from start to finish, with a treasure hunt before and after,” said Kleiner. “You can go home, make the dye and have fun experimenting…”

Kleiner originally began foraging for medicinal herbs, but soon discovered that any foray can be a success if one simply widens their parameters and imagination. Now, she knows that hopi sunflower seeds dye purple, avocado skin and pits can turn pink and gold and that many mushrooms make for surprising and colorful dyes. Pine needles, redwood cones and eucalyptus boughs (especially those that fall after storms) are great sustainable dye sources as well, as are rosemary, olive leaves, marigolds and much more.

“There are a lot of great apps for plant identification,” Kleiner noted. “And a ton of invasive species that dye well, like sourgrass, which is all over the hills right now.”

“For other [non-invasive] plants, the forager’s general rule…is not to take more than about an eighth of the plant at a time,” she continued. “If an eighth of the plant is just a tiny crumb, then the plant is too small.”

Kleiner also suggests staying away from rare, unusual or otherwise uncommon plants and fungi to avoid disrupting the local landscape. Sustainability and symbiosis with nature and the environment are key aspects in any sort of foraging, Easter egg dye hunts included.

“If you don’t forage, you can always grow dyes from seed or start in your own garden,” Kleiner concluded. “It won’t turn around and be ready by tomorrow, but it’s still a great way to work with the land and feel more in sync with nature.”

When asked if the decorative flower and leaf pressing principles used in natural clothing dye projects can be applied to eggs, Kleiner laughed and said that people generally use hammers for that effect, which she would not suggest in Easter egg dyeing.

“But you can take a bigger dye pot and distill it all down into an almost paint or watercolor,” she added.

Pantry items also make for great natural dyes. One can use red onion skins for red dye, yellow onion skins for orange dye, turmeric for yellow dye, red cabbage for blue dye and, for green dye, just combine blue and yellow.

To extract the color from any of these ingredients, boil them in water until the hue strength is suitable. Then strain the liquid, add white vinegar, submerge some pre-boiled (preferably white) eggs in the mix and refrigerate it all together for an hour or two. For a deeper hue, remove the eggs, let them dry, then dip them again. When the eggs are all done and dyed, lightly polish them with a bit of oil to add some shine.

‘Starchitect’ Killed by AI

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‘Starchitect’ Killed by AI

Making buildings smarter, more sustainable

In the next 30 years, sea levels will rise as much as they have in the last century, threatening urban areas all over the world.

Unfortunately, most of our existing cities aren’t built to withstand encroaching salt water or other climate-change impacts like floods and extreme storms. And while we need new infrastructure in order to adapt, construction is a major polluter. Today’s built environment is responsible for close to 40% of energy-related carbon emissions.

Architects can help us get out of this double bind—but only if they embrace generative artificial intelligence, which many have so far resisted. To fight climate change, architects need to reimagine their role and abandon their long-held obsession with individual authorship.

For example, generative AI can help architects pinpoint the best building locations and develop the most sustainable materials. It can use satellite images to create detailed land-use maps, making it possible to test future climate scenarios, such as extreme heat or flooding, for specific places.

In all likelihood, the collective creativity of generative AI heralds the end of sole authorship and the celebrity architect. It’s time for architects to abandon individual perspectives and work together to overcome the very real existential threat of climate change.

The end of the celebrity architect is actually a return to older understandings of authorship. Sole credit for a single designer has never been as central to great architecture as some would like to think. Long before Frank Lloyd Wright designed the Marin Civic Center, unknown designers created what is now the world’s longest-standing temple, 11,000-year-old Göbeklitepe in modern-day Turkey.

Architects, and those of us who teach future architects, have a major role to play in saving our environment. With the help of AI, we can design, construct and maintain structures that emit little or no carbon and also protect us from what’s ahead. Sacrificing claims to authorship to fulfill our duties to the planet is a small price to pay.

Alessandro Melis is the inaugural IDC Foundation endowed chair and a professor in the School of Architecture and Design at New York Institute of Technology.

Your Letters, 3/27

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Your Letters, 3/27

Countdown

With the election a few months away, those citizens who would not be comfortable with a fascist takeover of our country might want to take time out to make a things-to-do list.

The very first thing to do is to recognize the threats of all the anti-democratic people and ideas that are flying around like NFL linebackers. They are real.

The list might include supporting Republican Party officials who stand for democratic ideals, if there are any left.

We can also rally around non-partisan, independent public servants who still believe in the rule of law and are willing to defend our democratic institutions.

Pro-democracy and anti-violence coalitions may have to spring up around the country to protect first targets.

The American authoritarian phenomenon is now eight years old, at least, and it needs to be taken seriously and literally.

I don’t know about you, but I am not ready to “terminate” the Constitution, allow “retribution” against political opponents and to encourage anybody to be “dictator for a day.”

The dynamics of an authoritarian takeover are going to have to be altered in this country in order to preserve and protect this country.

There are still a lot of people who are a little too comfortable supporting a degenerate buffoon who has 91 felony counts on his head.

Let us make them very uncomfortable.

Craig J. Corsini

San Rafael

Payback

The Social Security Amendments of 1983 (Public Law 98-21, April 20, 1983) reinstated the previously expired interfund borrowing authority and extended it through 1987. Ronald Reagan started borrowing against Social Security in the ’80s. All following presidents have done this as well.

If you want to save Social Security, have Congress pay back what it has taken.

Gary Sciford

Santa Rosa

‘Private Space,’ Loretta Lynn and Recycled Art

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‘Private Space,’ Loretta Lynn and Recycled Art

Petaluma

‘Private Space’ Goes Public

Dive into the enigmatic world of “Private Space,” an innovative, collaborative exhibition qua installation by Petaluma artists Luc Addleman and Taylor Mancini. The unveiling reception is scheduled for 5 to 8pm, Saturday, April 6 at Usher Gallery in downtown Petaluma. “Private Space” is engineered to be an immersive foray into the realms of painted vinyl and abstract artistry, delving into deep-seated themes of anxiety, perseverance and desire. This exhibition is designed to captivate attendees with its gravity-defying brushstrokes and soulful compositions, showcasing a blend of individual pieces alongside unique collaborations developed specifically for the Usher Gallery space. Meanwhile, attendees can groove to the tunes of local sensation Swing State, offering a fusion of funk, ska and jazz-inspired melodies. Savor the moment with fine wine and refreshments while mingling with the creative minds behind the mesmerizing display. Usher Gallery is located at 1 Petaluma Blvd. North. For more info, visit ushergallerypetaluma.com.

Santa Rosa

Clone Miner’s Daughter

“The Loretta Lynn Tribute Show,” a celebration of the iconic Coal Miner’s Daughter, is set to take place at The California, located at 528 7th St. in Santa Rosa. Scheduled for 7pm, Friday, April 19, this event brings together a lineup of Bay Area country music artists for an evening dedicated to the legendary Loretta Lynn. Featured artists include Crying Time, Laura Benitez, Jill Rogers, Becklyn, Loralee Christensen, Margaret Belton, Nashville Honeymoon, Mauri Tan, Aireene Espirtu, Cindy Each, Allegra Bandy, Laugh Crow, Rucy Vixenn and Lias Maris Johnston. The show will cover a range of Lynn’s hits and deep album tracks, highlighted by unique duets and interpretations, all accompanied by the Oakland-based band Crying Time. This event, priced at $25 per ticket, follows successful shows at notable venues like Freight & Salvage in Berkeley and The Chapel in San Francisco. It promises a special evening for fans of country music and Loretta Lynn, marking a one-time performance at this venue. Tickets are available online through the caltheatre.com website.

Santa Rosa

Reuse Muse

Santa Rosa Arts Center hosts “Transformations: Recycled Art” from April 5 through June 1. This unique exhibition focuses on the innovative reuse of materials through sculptures, assemblages and collages by artists from the Bay Area and Northern California. The artists’ reception is planned for 5 to 8pm, Friday, April 5, at the center, located at 312 South A St. in Santa Rosa. This annual exhibit not only showcases the creativity and ingenuity of local artists but also serves an educational purpose by promoting conservation and highlighting the potential for new uses of materials typically considered disposable. By incorporating these objects into their artwork, the artists contribute to reducing waste and the amount of trash ending up in landfills. “Transformations: Recycled Art” is an initiative that aligns with broader environmental conservation efforts, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. The exhibition is partially sponsored by Recology Sonoma Marin, emphasizing the importance of recycling and resource conservation. For more information about the exhibition, visit the Santa Rosa Arts Center’s website at santarosaartscenter.org.

Corte Madera

Memoir Moment

An author event with Satsuki Ina, focusing on her work, The Poet and the Silk Girl, is scheduled for 4pm, Saturday, March 30 at Book Passage in Corte Madera. This free event offers attendees the opportunity to dive into a narrative that spans generations, highlighting the resilience and struggles of Japanese Americans against racial oppression and their fight for civil liberties. Ina, a licensed psychotherapist with a specialization in community trauma, brings her expertise and personal activism into her writing. She explores the themes of resistance, empowerment and transformation against systemic oppression. Ina’s activism is further demonstrated through her co-founding of Tsuru for Solidarity, a project aimed at advocating for social justice and the end of detention sites through nonviolent direct action. In addition to her literary contributions, Ina has produced two significant documentaries, Children of the Camps and From a Silk Cocoon, focusing on Japanese Americans’ World War II incarceration. Book Passage is located at 51 Tamal Vista, Corte Madera. For more information, visit bit.ly/satsuki-ina.

Free Will Astrology: Week of March 27

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Free Will Astrology: Week of March 27

ARIES (March 21-April 19): In the coming days, your hunger will be so inexhaustible that you may feel driven to devour extravagant amounts of food and drink. It’s possible you will gain 10 pounds in a very short time. Who knows? You might even enter an extreme eating contest and devour 46 dozen oysters in 10 minutes! APRIL FOOL! Although what I just said is remotely plausible, I foresee that you will sublimate your exorbitant hunger. You will realize it is spiritual in nature and can’t be gratified by eating food. As you explore your voracious longings, you will hopefully discover a half-hidden psychological need you have been suppressing. And then you will liberate that need and feed it what it craves!

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Taurus novelist Lionel Shriver writes, “There’s a freedom in apathy, a wild, dizzying liberation on which you can almost get drunk.” In accordance with astrological omens, I recommend you experiment with Shriver’s strategy in the coming weeks. APRIL FOOL! I lied. In fact, Lionel Shriver’s comment is one of the dumbest thoughts I have ever heard. Why would anyone want the cheap, damaged liberation that comes from feeling indifferent, numb and passionless? Please do all you can to disrupt and dissolve any attraction you may have to that state, Taurus. In my opinion, you now have a sacred duty to cultivate extra helpings of enthusiasm, zeal, liveliness and ambition.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): At enormous cost and after years of study, I have finally figured out the meaning of life, at least as it applies to you Geminis. Unfortunately, I won’t be able to reveal it to you unless you send me $1,000 and a case of Veuve Clicquot champagne. I’ve got to recoup my investment, right?! APRIL FOOL! Most of what I just said was a dirty lie. It’s true that I have worked hard to uncover the meaning of life for you Geminis. But I haven’t found it yet. And even if I did, I would of course provide it to you for free. Luckily, you are now in a prime position to make dramatic progress in deciphering the meaning of life for yourself.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): For a limited time only, you have permission from the cosmos to be a wildly charismatic egomaniac who brags incessantly and insists on getting your selfish needs met at all times and in all places. Please feel free to have maximum amounts of narcissistic fun, Cancerian! APRIL FOOL! I was exaggerating a bit, hoping to offer you medicinal encouragement so you will stop being so damn humble and self-effacing all the time. But the truth is, now is indeed an excellent time to assert your authority, expand your clout, and flaunt your potency and sovereignty.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Michael Scott was a character in the TV sitcom The Office. He was the boss of a paper company. Played by Leo actor Steve Carell, he was notoriously self-centered and obnoxious. However, there was one famous scene I will urge you to emulate. He was asked if he would rather be feared or loved. He replied, “Um, easy, both. I want people to be afraid of how much they love me.” Be like Michael Scott, Leo! APRIL FOOL! I was half-kidding. It’s true I’m quite excited by the likelihood that you will receive floods of love in the coming weeks. It’s also true that I think you should do everything possible to boost this likelihood. But I would rather that people be amazed and pleased at how much they love you, not afraid.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Now would be an excellent time for you to snag a Sugar Daddy or Sugar Momma or Sugar NonBinary Nurturer. The astrological omens are telling me that life is expanding its willingness and capacity to provide you with help, support and maybe even extra cash. I dare you to dangle yourself as bait and sell your soul to the highest bidder. APRIL FOOL! I was half-kidding. While I do believe it’s prime time to ask for and receive more help, support and extra cash, I don’t believe you will have to sell your soul to get any of it. Just be yourself!

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Happy Unbirthday, Libra! It’s that time, halfway between your last birthday and your next. Here are the presents I plan to give you: a boost in your receptivity to be loved and needed; a constructive relationship with obsession; more power to accomplish the half-right thing when it’s hard to do the totally right thing; the disposal of 85% of the psychic trash left over from the time between 2018 and 2023; and a provocative new invitation to transcend an outworn old taboo. APRIL FOOL! The truth is, I can’t possibly supply every one of you with these fine offerings, so please bestow them on yourself. Luckily, the cosmic currents will conspire with you to make these things happen.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Now would be an excellent time to seek liposuction, a facelift, Botox, buttocks augmentation or hair transplants. Cosmic rhythms will be on your side if you change how you look. APRIL FOOL! Everything I just said was a lie. I’ve got nothing against cosmetic surgery, but now is not the right time to alter your appearance. Here’s the correct oracle: Shed your disguises, stop hiding anything about who you really are and show how proud you are of your idiosyncrasies.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): I command you to love Jesus and Buddha! If you don’t, you will burn in Hell! APRIL FOOL! I was just kidding. I was being sensationalistic to grab your attention. Here’s my real, true oracle for you: Love everybody, including Jesus and Buddha. And I mean love them all twice as strong and wild and tender. The cosmic powers ask it of you! The health of your immortal soul depends on it! Yes, Sagittarius, for your own selfish sake, you need to pour out more adoration and care and compassion than you ever have before. I’m not exaggerating! Be a lavish Fountain of Love!

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): If you gave me permission, I would cast a spell to arouse in you a case of ergophobia, i.e., an aversion to work. I think you need to take a sweet sabbatical from doing business as usual. APRIL FOOL! I was just joking about casting a spell on you. But I do wish you would indulge in a lazy, do-nothing retreat. If you want your ambitions to thrive later, you will be wise to enjoy a brief period of delightful emptiness and relaxing dormancy. As Buddhist teacher Sylvia Boorstein recommends, “Don’t just do something! Sit there!”

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): In accordance with current astrological omens, I suggest you get the book Brain Surgery for Beginners by Steven Parker and David West. You now have the power to learn and even master complex new skills, and this would be an excellent place to start. APRIL FOOL! I was half-kidding. I don’t really think you should take a scalpel to the gray matter of your friends and family members—or yourself, for that matter. But I am quite certain that you currently have an enhanced power to learn and even master new skills. It’s time to raise your educational ambitions to a higher octave. Find out what lessons and training you need most, then make plans to get them.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): In the religious beliefs of Louisiana Voodoo, one God presides over the universe but never meddles in the details of life. There are also many spirits who are always intervening and tinkering, intimately involved in the daily rhythm. They might do nice things for people or play tricks on them—and everything in between. In alignment with current astrological omens, I urge you to convert to the Louisiana Voodoo religion and try ingenious strategies to get the spirits to do your bidding. APRIL FOOL! I don’t really think you should convert. However, I believe it would be fun and righteous for you to proceed as if spirits are everywhere—and assume that you have the power to harness them to work on your behalf.

Homework: Speak aloud as you tell yourself the many ways you are wonderful. Newsletter.FreeWillAstrology.com

Small (or No) Rewards

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Small (or No) Rewards

A reflection on a moment

As I descend (slip, roll, dive, tumble, freefall) into my mid-70s, I am learning to cope, not simply with diminished expectations but with diminished capacity.

I haven’t always been this old, but I certainly am now, and being this old requires certain adjustments. Whereas I once had ambition, energy, a drive for self-improvement and a willingness to put up with massive challenges to achieve some level of personal fulfillment, none of that is happening as of today. It is gone, perhaps for good.

In place of a need to excel, or at least keep up with reality, I now have the opposite. I want almost nothing to do with this FUBAR world. Patterns of inertia have taken hold. I find it hard to care about the things I used to hold so dear: public affairs, the state of the nation, global power politics and ambitious proposals to solve problems on a massive scale.

In the ’70s and ’80s, I worked in the bank’s “politics” department—a group of hand-picked young brainiacs responsible for managing external relations with local, state and federal elected officials, banking industry policy figures, business media outlets and responsible large-scale business associations. It used to be known as lobbying. Such a quaint term, in retrospect. In truth, I was a former high school civics teacher hired to help local bankers better understand how to represent the bank’s interests in their communities.

A great job with low pay and high rewards, but the work seemed vital to the global economy, the holy grail of existence at the time. That enthused young banking businessperson no longer exists. In his place, I think it’s fair to say he’s a bum. An argument could be made that I am older now than ever.

I admire people my age and younger who still care about what happens in the public sphere. They are still out there participating, collecting signatures, having important conversations and engaging with the world of competing interests. They have a lot more patience than I do.

All that doing has been replaced by a desire to undo. Disgust with public affairs has replaced passion. Disinterest has taken over for intense curiosity. Constant “networking,” meet my new friend, “solitude.”

Craig Corsini lives in Marin County.

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Small (or No) Rewards

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A reflection on a moment As I descend (slip, roll, dive, tumble, freefall) into my mid-70s, I am learning to cope, not simply with diminished expectations but with diminished capacity. I haven’t always been this old, but I certainly am now, and being this old requires certain adjustments. Whereas I once had ambition, energy, a drive for self-improvement and a willingness...
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