Marin Magazine - July 2009

Friends of the San Francisco Public Library hosted their annual literary gala—the 2009 Library Laureates Dinner: Celebrating the Theory of Evolution. The event attendees toasted the bicentennial of Charles Darwin’s birth and the 150th anniversary of the publication of On the Origin of Species. The dinner raised over $150,000 for the San Francisco Public Library.

Novato’s Buck Institute, the nation’s only independent research institute focused on aging and age-related disease, welcomed 700 people for a sold-out gala. Obscura Digital used the exterior and interior walls of the Buck as a “canvas” by projecting moving and interactive images to create a unique backdrop for the evening and special guest Kendra Kassebaum, who plays Glinda in the San Francisco production of Wicked, performed for the black-tie-clad crowd.

Locals came out for the grand opening of the new Paul Smith store in downtown San Francisco. True to all Paul Smith shops worldwide, the interior of the Geary Street location was designed by Paul Smith and his team and is a mix of mid-century modern and traditional turn-of-the-century design. Enter on the Maiden Lane entrance to catch a look at the collection of Smith’s own art, objects and fan mail.

The San Francisco League of the San Francisco Symphony presented a black-tie-and-costume dinner dance, A Grand Affair with Gilbert & Sullivan, in the Garden Court of the Palace Hotel. Proceeds from the event benefit the community and education programs of the symphony.

Recently, director Joe Wright brought his latest film, The Soloist, to the Christopher B. Smith Rafael Film Center, for a special preview screening. The crowd was treated to a question-and-answer session by Joe Wright, who told the audience, “This is one of my favorite cinemas in the world. There is nothing like it anywhere.”

Gump’s CEO Marta Benson and curator Natasha Boas invited guests for drinks to celebrate the launch of Gump’s new Eau de Parfum Baroque Pearl and to see the gallery opening of Pearl: Inspiring Design and Desire.

The Redwoods Retirement Community in Mill Valley recognized 17 individuals from Marin and Sonoma counties, including students and teachers, and the Marin County Search and Rescue Team for outstanding public service during its 17th annual Celebration of Service Awards program at the Mill Valley retirement community.

Recently, local designer Lisa Alexander previewed her new children’s line, Spike and Annie, and donated a portion of sales from the event to Pets Unlimited. The line focuses on using eco-friendly materials and has a resort-style feel.

The Marin Theatre Company’s annual gala and auction raised $110,000 for its artistic and educational programs. The gala honored Ivan Poutiatine, longtime MTC board member and former mayor of Mill Valley.