Harrison K-9 Security Services provides the ultimate security device that is safe and fun for kids and families.

Statistics show that home break-ins are on the rise, and the pattern of when a home is burglarized has changed. In the past, a break-in usually occurred when the home was empty during the day or while the family was away on vacation. According to recent studies, that is no longer true. Today’s intruder, in many cases, is not a single burglar, but a group of criminals working together. They have no fear of entering a home when the family is sleeping at night and may accost anyone who is awakened by the noise. There is also the home-invasion criminal who breaks in at any time of day with no concern for who is home; some of these offenders will deal with unexpected family members in whatever manner required in order to achieve their criminal objective.

Let’s face it, as technology grows leaps and bounds, our lives have become easier and more connected. From cell phones to automatic gates to advanced security systems controlled online, it seems we are all electronically linked in some way. Unfortunately criminals are connected too. However, there is a device that can protect the home and family that cannot be compromised by hackers, thieves, or technological glitches. Harrison K-9 Security Services, LLC offers world-class European German shepherds who provide safety and security while serving as the family’s favorite companion and loyal best friend.

Known worldwide as the pioneers of the K-9 security industry, Harrison K-9 has provided European German shepherds to prominent clients around the globe, including a top-secret “who’s who” list of dignitaries, celebrities, and C-level executives. Because anonymity is sacred at Harrison K-9, they refuse to capitalize on their confidential client list. “We are recognized as the best at what we do and we do not advertise who our clients are,” says Harrison Prather, founder and CEO of Harrison K-9. “They can expect to remain anonymous.” Having sold these top-of-the-line K-9s for more than three decades to families, famous entertainers, professional athletes, well-known television news commentators, and world government leaders, the company must be on the right track.

Harrison K-9 only imports European German shepherds from the pure and closely guarded bloodlines of Germany’s finest breeders. All of their K-9s are certified in the renowned Schutzhund competitions (the gold standard by which working dogs are judged internationally) and have achieved the equivalent of a master’s degree in tracking, obedience, and protection. Prather explains, “If a German shepherd cannot achieve a title in Schutzhund, there is usually a reason, and it is not a reason most people want in their homes and around their families.”

The training these dogs receive at Harrison K-9’s 25-acre facility, located in Aiken, South Carolina, is just as fascinating as the concept of this business itself. Each dog’s training is tailored to suit the personal preferences and needs of the client that is purchasing the dog. Harrison says, “The abilities of the European German shepherd are endless, and these dogs are always up to the task of learning something new. Training can include locating the scent of missing children, avoiding poisonous foods, searching the home for intruders, and protecting the owner from car-jackings, just to name a few.”

Female trainers are another key to Harrison K-9’s success. With a training staff made up predominately of women, these dogs are trained not only in advanced obedience and protection techniques, but also the demeanor most ladies prefer around their children and families and how to respond correctly in a home environment. This gives a Harrison German shepherd the edge over the competition because the dog can respond instantly to provide the protection for the family that the man of the house desires when he is away, while still maintaining instinctual knowledge of how to behave around the lady of the house, and be a gentle, best friend to the children. With a price tag of $35,000 to $60,000, these dogs do not come cheap, but peace of mind in regards to safety and security never does.

Harrison K-9 Security Services, LLC
803.649.5936
www.harrisonk9.com

By Allison Medoff

Thanks to ALNO San Francisco’s new South Beach showroom, kitchens throughout the Bay Area just got a little hauter.

A kitchen is the heart of any home. It can be a place of energy and inspiration, comfort and luxury, pleasure and passion. In a like manner, a poorly designed kitchen can be a source of frustration and heartache over ruined meals and faulty cabinets. ALNO, the heralded German kitchen manufacturer and design firm whose motto is “The Kitchen, Perfected,” has brought its expertise to downtown San Francisco to ensure Bay Area residents never have to deal with sub-par cooking environments again.

The new ALNO San Francisco is owned and operated by Deganit Albalak, who relocated her showroom in Palo Alto to ALNO’s brand new, 2,300-square-foot space in South Beach, San Francisco. While the Palo Alto outpost had experienced untold success during its lifespan, Albalak felt that this centralized location would best serve all members of the community, from interior designers and architects who rely on ALNO products in their work, to home owners looking to upgrade their current environment, to developers who want to incorporate state-of-the-art kitchens in their projects. Beyond the kitchen, ALNO cabinets are the perfect addition to any room in the home, from bathrooms to walk-in closets and beyond.

The showroom’s concrete floors and high ceilings provide the perfect backdrop for the five display kitchens, which are outfitted with the finest appliance, stone, and sink brands on the market. Additional choices can be seen throughout the showroom as well, which incorporates complete environmentally friendly designs. “We created it this way from the beginning,” explains Albalak. “Our showroom is completely energy efficient, from the types of windows and the lighting, to the material used for the floor, and everything in between. We take care of the environment.” All ALNO cabinets are constructed from FSC-certified materials, and feature only the finest wood, glass, gloss, color, and overall architecture.

The concept has been embraced by the community, who flock to the locale for the cooking demonstrations at the functional exhibition kitchen. ALNO San Francisco often holds community events (coming up: a wine tasting by Porter Family Vineyards on July 15), where chefs have an opportunity to show off their talents while proving the versatility and prowess of the ALNO kitchen.

For those who want to incorporate an ALNO concept into their home, in-house interior designers are available to walk customers through the state-of-the-art 3-D kitchen planner, which allows them to get a realistic look at the final kitchen before the construction process begins. Designers are also available to answer any questions that may come up in the planning process and offer their expert opinion when necessary. The professionals can help customers tackle issues like work-zone spacing, ergonomic function, and body-centric design. The contract sales division is also on hand to assist trade professionals. “We serve our customers from A to Z,” explains Albalak, “from the initial design stage all the way through the completion of the project.”

With many awards under its belt, industry leaders, designers, and architects obviously regard ALNO as the ultimate source for luxury kitchens. Thanks to Albalak and ALNO San Francisco, Bay area residents can infuse their homes and condominiums with the finest stylings, which come complete with world-class service.

ALNO San Francisco
243 Brannan St.
San Francisco
415.541.0754
www.alnosanfrancisco.com

By Kimberly Miller

As you weave in and out of the cypress trees hugging the curves of 17-Mile Drive while waves crash against the shore, it becomes easy to understand why Pebble Beach is arguably one of California’s most magical destinations. Even with its misty fog and quiet civility, there is a pedigree and grace to this breathtaking land that continues to captivate its residents and every passerby. While many visitors are busy notching their golf belts along the famed fairways, the myriad of other pleasures from which to choose provide ample reason to take off your spikes and stay a while.

Undoubtedly the most famous-and for good reason-resort chosen by affluent guests with discerning tastes would be the The Lodge at Pebble Beach, a true classic in a traditional sense known for its picturesque waterfront golf course and ocean views. Book a room overlooking the 18th green and do not miss indulging in a post-game steak at The Tap Room where golfers gather in a pub setting. Note that this is the only Pebble Beach resort property that is dog friendly, and you can even take Rover for a ride in one of the hotel’s Lexus motor vehicles.

Being that proximity to the water can often equal cold weather, consider the rustic Bernardus Lodge & Winery in the heart of Carmel Valley, where sun is more of a sure thing. Thanks to the hotel’s critically acclaimed Chef Cal Staminov, travelers the world over frequent Marinus, the restaurant where he helms the kitchen. For the ultimate in culinary ecstasy, request his chef’s table (seats four) where you’ll be introduced to the stars of the show before they meet their fate. Additionally, the property features a remarkable spa as well as outdoor dining, making it a popular lunch locale.

For an intimate, more boutique feel, venture into the heart of nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea for a quaint room at L’Auberge Carmel where luxury meets Old World charm. This inviting hotel often wins awards due to its inimitable service and French fare dished by Aubergine’s Executive Chef Christophe Grosjean. Worth noting: L’Auberge will soon give birth to a Napa Valley sibling when Hotel Luca opens in Yountville this fall.

A jaunt westward to Carmel Valley is where to head should your sensibilities need the kind of rejuvenation that only comes from natural beauty. The 850-acre estate of Quail Lodge Resort was designed to complement the artistic hand of Mother Nature, complete with the serenity of sparkling lakes and meadows punctuated with oak trees. While the spa experience at Quail Lodge Resort ensures that this will be the first time you don’t need a vacation from your vacation upon returning home, the culinary delights are worth mentioning too. Organic produce and local meats and seafood guarantee that taste is never sacrificed here, a guiding philosophy that earned the team the honor of an invitation to prepare a meal at the James Beard House in New York. Other attractions that are drawing in the globe-trekkers include The Land Rover Experience Driving School, which is one of only four in North America. Eighty acres of hills, wooded trails and rock obstacles introduce adventurous drivers to the thrills of off-roading.

This kind of bohemian luxury and adventure can also be found by cruising down the coast approximately 30 miles to Big Sur, where you can check into the beloved Post Ranch Inn to get away in pristine isolation. From hiking and yoga to star gazing and fine dining, this resort has it all. Nestled along the coast just off of Highway 1, PRI offers bungalow-style cabanas, some of which are perched on stilts amid the redwood trees, with decks for lounging. Take a dip in the heated infinity pool to watch the sun set-a truly unforgettable experience. (Note: No TVs so bring reading materials).

Once you determine where to hang your hat, there are two phone calls you will want to make: The first will be to Casanova, Carmel’s enchanting Italian restaurant housed in a storybook cottage equally ideal for a family lunch or a romantic dinner for two. The second should be to Clint Eastwood’s legendary Mission Ranch, complete with green pastures and grazing sheep. Though the Carmel Valley property features a modest inn, you’ll want to visit the restaurant to savor the signature prime rib on the heated patio before sipping post-dinner cocktails in the piano bar.

When you awake the following day and recover from the sing-a-long fun, take a stroll along Carmel’s shopping artery also known as Ocean Avenue where you’ll discover luxury brand flagships like Bottega Veneta, Louis Vuitton, and Pierre Deux mixed among unique storefronts including fine watch and jewelry boutique Lussori, which features designs unique to that address. For the finest French linens, make your way into Jan de Luz for hand towels, placemats, and custom embroidered tablecloths.

Dashing dressers will love the men’s and women’s assortments at Wilkes Bashford-a sibling to the San Francisco original-which punctuates the mini mall of boutiques that define Carmel Plaza. Before reaching the beach at the end of the stretch, pack the ultimate picnic basket with imported cheeses and a bottle of wine from The Cheese Shop (just below Wilkes).

While the boys tee up at the exclusive, members-only Monterey Peninsula Country Club on 17-Mile Drive, which features two 18-hole golf courses, a pro shop, fitness studio, and multiple dining options, ladies will not want to miss the opportunity to unwind at the Hyatt Regency Monterey’s newly opened spa Accista. The facility recently underwent a $65 million redesign, transforming it into a 12,000-square-foot relaxation haven. Book one of the signature couples suites for a massage, body wrap, or a sea kelp scrub after swimming laps in the outdoor pool. If gentlemen desire a post-link pamper, they’ll forget their bogeys with The Full De Monte-a two-hour “golfer’s retreat” combination treatment with a facial and massage.

From Big Sur to the Monterey Peninsula, one thing is certain: there is no shortage of tempting offerings for every visitor seeking serenity in a place like no other. There is a refined elegance and timelessness that harkens back to decades past, making it easy to understand why this is one of the most frequented destinations on California’s treasured coast. If the cliffs of Ireland mated with the French countryside and yielded a child capable of achieving greatness, its name would be Pebble Beach.

By Genevieve Janssens

Spring has sprung and now we are well into the heart, and the heat, of summer. Seasonal weather changes are something that we pay close attention to at Robert Mondavi Winery. Everything that we are focused on right now is related to the weather patterns that we have seen so far in 2009. In May, we had a cool streak with three inches of rain, so right now our work at the vineyard is based on that. It was quite a cool spring overall this year, which for California vintners, means lots of growth. In comparison, last year we had a warmer spring with very little water, so our shoot in the vineyard was shorter and the crop was much lighter.

Because of the cool, wet spring, for summer we will focus our efforts on slowing down the growth of the vines. We are hedging them so that they won’t grow larger, thereby ensuring that all of the attention is on the fruit. We want to guarantee that all of the energy of the vine goes directly to the grape instead of to growing the plants and vines. We spent the entire month of June with our focus on that goal. Cultivating the vines and ridding the land of the weeds is how we will spend the remainder of the summer months.

One of the exciting new projects currently taking place at Robert Mondavi is from a vineyard we planted three years ago. This will be the first year that we will see a light crop from that planting, so it is quite a thrilling time for us as winemakers. The preparation of this particular planting took a full year. We studied the composition of the soil by doing a lot of digging in order to understand the underground of the area. In the past, this block of land was reserved for cabernet sauvignon, but what we discovered after examining the soil is that the east portion of the block is particularly fertile, so we used one-third of it to set a profile for a sauvignon blanc planting. The west portion of the block we reserved for a cabernet franc planting. Cabernet franc, although similar to cabernet sauvignon, is a bit lighter, and is often grown for the purpose of blending with the cabernet sauvignon and merlots. The soil of this area of the block is heavy with gravel, which is excellent for cabernet franc because often times it is very difficult to grow. Generally it can be very challenging to find a good site with well-drained soil that will produce a good crop, so we were thrilled to be able to plant two-thirds of the block with this variety.

This in particular shows that our ancestors knew exactly what to plant in which particular area of the estate. We learn so much from what they planted, so their legacy is always teaching us. It is an interesting dichotomy because as we move ahead in the 21st century with scores of new technology, we find that we also still rely heavily on the wisdom of our ancestors. They knew how to create beautiful wines, so anytime we replant a new vineyard, we try to do it in the exact same way as those vintners who came before us. Sometimes going back in the past is the best way to cultivate the future. The key is to find a way to balance the modern age while revering the ways of the Old World.

As I said, it is an exciting time for us at Robert Mondavi Winery and it will be interesting to observe all of this new growth, as well as how the new generation is going to learn and cultivate it. It is an incredible diversity of new technologies, new plants, and new systems. And just as what our ancestors planted was a gift for us, what we plant today will be a gift for the next generation.
Cheers,

Genevieve Janssens
Director of Winemaking at Robert Mondavi Winery

By Chef Ron Siegel

As we enter into the late summer months, tomatoes are such an obvious ingredient on which to focus, but they are impossible to avoid because they are a true representation of summer and the culinary delights that the season brings. When I am choosing tomatoes for a particular dish, one of the things that I test out is their aroma. For me, they should smell like the vine with a strong scent of being freshly picked.

I have spoken here many times about how important I find fresh, natural ingredients to be while preparing my menus, leading me to make many trips to our local farmers’ markets and develop relationships with various organic farmers in the region. Just to the northwest of us, at the University of California, Davis is the Tomato Genetics Stock Center with more than 2,750 genetic varieties of the fruit (which the U.S. Supreme Court officially declared as a vegetable in 1893). Backing up my devotion to organic products, the university is in the midst of a 100-year-long experiment that began in 1991, which, so far, has found that organically grown tomatoes contain nearly double the concentration of the antioxidant flavonoids, quercetin and kaempferol, than conventionally grown tomatoes. The 10-year mean levels of kaempferol were 97 percent higher in organic tomatoes and the quercetin levels were 79 percent higher than in conventional tomatoes.

With statistics like those, I insist that you try this delicious recipe that incorporates a tomato gelée. And just for fun, I have also included two other favorite summertime recipes that are often requested by our regular patrons.

Cheers,

The Dining Room at The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco
600 Stockton Street
San Francisco, CA 94108
415.296.7465

Aiu with Tomato Gelée, Basil Seeds and Basil Oil

• 2 ounces Aiu fillet
• 3 pounds ripe heirloom tomatoes
• 6 grams (approximately 2 sheets) of sheet gelatin
• 1/2 tablespoon basil seeds
• 2 bunches of basil
• Olive oil
• Cheesecloth

Wash and core the tomatoes. Puree them in a blender or food processor. Take the puree liquid blend and strain it through a cloth napkin into a bowl. The remaining liquid in the bowl will look clear like water, with a slight reddish tint to it.

Take 6 grams of sheet gelatin, soak it in cold water, and let it soften. Bring the tomato consommé to a very low simmer. Once the gelatin sheets are soft, slowly add them in, diluting them in the tomato consommé. Next, pour the mixture onto the flat surface of a dish and refrigerate.

Put the basil seeds in a small bowl and cover them in water until all of the water is absorbed. The consistency will become similar to tapioca, where it is transparent on the outside with a “black eye” in the center where the seeds have formed together.

Next, pick the leaves off of the basil. Blanch in boiling water for one minute and then place in an ice bath. Let it cool, and then wring out any excess water. Place basil leaves into a blender and then drizzle just enough olive oil to cover the top portion of the basil. Puree until it is a smooth paste. Then strain the basil puree through cheesecloth until you are left with green basil oil.

Sauté the Aiu filet for 10 to 20 seconds on one side, flip it over and sauté it for just one second on the other.

Drizzle the basil oil on a plate. Place the basil seed around the plate. Put the tomato gelée in the center and the sautéed Aiu on top.

Seared Toro with Matsutake Mushrooms, Edamame, and Mirin Reduction

• 4 two-ounce packs Toro
• 1 tablespoon cracked Muntock white pepper
• 1 tablespoon vanilla sea salt
• 2 shallots
• ¼ cup mirin
• ½ cup brown chicken stock
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 matsutake mushroom
• 2 to 3 tablespoons edamame beans

Blanch the edamame beans and set aside. Slice the shallots paper-thin and put them in a stainless or non-reactive pot. Add the mirin and reduce down until it becomes a syrupy consistency. Add brown chicken stock, let simmer 5 to 10 minutes, strain and set aside.

Season the toro lightly with salt. Sear lightly in a pan.

Using a mandoline or a very sharp knife, shave the matsutake very thinly and place on a flat layer on a plate. Warm the edamame beans, place on top of the mushrooms. Slice toro and fan out on the plate.

Reheat the mirin reduction and mount with butter; drizzle on plate. Sprinkle with vanilla sea salt and Muntock white pepper. Serve.

Quail Egg 64°

• 1 quail egg
• Brioche bread
• 1 teaspoon golden osetra caviar
• Pinch of finely ground cedar chips
• Chopped chives

Set up an immersion circulator at 64 degrees Celsius. Cook the quail egg for at least 13 minutes in the immersion circulator.

Make brioche croutons by finely dicing some brioche bread. Sauté in clarified butter until lightly browned. Chop a small amount of fresh chives. Grate the cedar chips so that they are small enough to fit in a small, portable smoker.

Cover the glass container with plastic wrap very tightly. Heat the tip of a pastry tip and poke a small hole through the plastic on one side. On the opposite side of the plastic-wrapped surface, make a quenelle of caviar and place the croutons next to the quenelle. Carefully crack the egg open, starting from the larger side of the egg. Place the egg on the croutons between the quenelle and croutons so it does not run down the side of the surface. Put cedar chips in bowl of the smoker; aim the output into the hole you created with the pastry tip. Cover the hole with a teaspoon. Serve immediately. When the spoon is used to eat the egg, the smoke will escape and the diner will enjoy the smell of the cedar smoke.

By Kristen Philipkoski
Photography by Chris Hardy

You’d be hard pressed to choose which of these top Silicon Valley investors you’d rather spend an evening with. Whether you wanted to sell your elevator pitch or just to chill with someone whose off-the-clock lifestyle includes running Ironman triathlons, kite surfing, racing cars, or imbibing the world’s finest wine, any of these A-list financiers would make fascinating dinner companions. They’ve provided seed money to Silicon Valley’s most successful start-ups-yes, including Google and Facebook-and they’re just getting started. Here they share their secrets to success, which happens to involve being generally extreme.

Ron Conway

Ron Conway, otherwise known as the Godfather of Silicon Valley, has probably made more Web 2.0 (social media) investments than anyone else. In just three years during the late 1990s, he famously invested in more than 240 startups. As the founder and managing partner of Angel Investor LP funds, he invested in companies that are now household names. One even became a commonly used verb. You guessed it: Google. Others are AskJeeves, PayPal (which sold to eBay in 2002 for $1.5 billion), and Brightmail. He has made investments for superstars including Shaquille O’Neal, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Tiger Woods, and Henry Kissinger. And now, post-dotcom downturn, he continues to show his knack for picking winning teams. His latest investments include Facebook, Twitter, Digg, AdMob, Mint, and RockYou. Conway was sixth on the Forbes list of top dealmakers in 2006, and he has invested in more than 500 companies in his career.

The secret to Conway’s success? “Ron probably has the best pattern recognition and gut instinct of anyone,” says David Lee, an investment partner of Conway’s. The most important thing they look for in a startup is passionate founders who are overall good people. “He’s not gonna back mercenaries,” Lee said. “He wants to back people who he would hang out with or who he finds to be honorable.”

Conway recently relocated from Silicon Valley to San Francisco with his wife and three sons. He’s built quite a roster of philanthropies that he supports: He’s vice chairman of the UCSF Medical Foundation, a board member of SF Homeless Connect, and he’s on the Benefit Committee of The Tiger Woods Foundation, Ronald McDonald House, College Track, and the Black Eyed Peas PeaPod Academy Foundation.

Chris Sacca

Before becoming an investor, Chris Sacca had a pretty awesome gig at Google as “head of special initiatives.” In that role he helped create citywide WiFi access in Mountain View, California (home base for Google), and spearheaded many of the company’s M&A activities. Why give up a dream gig like that? “It got to be a little big for me,” he says. “I’m a startup guy.” Sacca wanted to be a stakeholder in the companies he was working with, so he broke out on his own with Lowercase Capital. If his first investment-Twitter-is any indication, he’s on the right track. “I’m a huge fan of those guys and I think they have the potential to-and already are-changing the world,” Sacca says. “I’m thrilled and feel really lucky to be working with them.” He works out of Twitter’s offices one day per week as an advisor.

Sacca’s career hasn’t always been rosy. He suffered through the dotcom bust in the early 2000s as a lawyer at Fenwick and West, working with companies that had unfortunate fates, including Excite@Home and Exodous Communications. He went from “huge and high-flying” to “literally doing anything for money” (within reason of course) in a short time after being laid off. It was a humbling time, and he says he “learned a ton about being scrappy and lean” before he was eventually hired by Google, which was a “pretty fantastic and life-changing experience.”

Also life-changing, one would imagine, is flying through the air, over the ocean, hanging from a giant kite. Kite surfing is one of the Bay Area pastimes that Sacca enjoys, along with regular old surfing. He lives part time in Truckee so he can ski as much as possible and be near the mountains and wide-open spaces. As for nightlife? He prefers to stay home with friends and “go nuts with the truffles and break out some sick wines.” That way he doesn’t have to break from his uniform, which is currently an embroidered cowboy shirt and jeans. (To avoid facing unnecessary decisions, he chooses a new uniform every few years. Previous was a zip-neck sweater, T-shirt, and jeans). But it’s not all about him. Sacca recently returned from a trip to Ethiopia where he was working with a group called Charity: Water, which helps bring clean drinking water to developing nations.

David Shen

David Shen left Yahoo! in late 2004 after nearly nine years at the company. He was ready to break out on his own and raise a venture fund. But he quickly found that was easier said than done. People were touchy when it came to letting someone with no venture capital experience invest their money. So instead he started his own angel investing firm, David Shen Ventures. And it turns out he loves answering only to himself. “I’m rewarded not only with money, but I get to work with great entrepreneurs and smart people who want my help batting around ideas,” Shen says. “That itself is fascinating to me. And it’s hugely satisfying when you make the right call.”

Shen says he likes angel investing because he gets his fingers dirty doing a variety of tasks rather than just one. Some of the companies where he’s currently soiling his digits are Ideeli, a members-only shopping community, bit.ly, a URL shortener, and Adnectar, a social product placement platform.

When he’s not advising young companies, Shen takes advantage of the Bay Area weather to train for triathlons. “The Bay Area is probably the best training area anywhere,” says Shen, who lives in Palo Alto. “You can go out and ride and run without worrying about the weather.” He competed in the Escape From Alcatraz triathlon in June, as well as the Coeur d’Alene Ironman Triathlon in Utah. Shen tries to do one Ironman per year; this is his 6th.

Andrea Zurek

If you want Silicon Valley street cred, Andrea Zurek has it in spades. Item 1: she was a very early employee at Google. Item 2: She’s a founding partner with XG Ventures, which invests seed money in Internet startups and is comprised of ex-Google staffers. Item 3: She has raced cars alongside Eddie and Alex Van Halen. (She has the Facebook photos to prove it!)

In June, Zurek completed the first annual Gold Rush Rally-a race on California and Nevada freeways from San Francisco to Los Angeles to Las Vegas-in her Porsche. It was inspired by the Gumball 3000, a larger race that Zurek participated in 2007 in Europe. For that, she drove across the entire continent covering 18 countries. Racers enter at their own risk and are responsible for any run-ins with highway patrol. “I earned every speeding ticket I got,” Zurek says.

When she’s not dodging the CHP, she’s sniffing out the best up-and-coming startups in the consumer Internet, mobile, and online media sectors. One of the companies XG Ventures is currently working with that Zurek is excited about is Tabulous, which is like Guitar Hero for your iPhone. “It’s very easy to use, simple to learn and highly addictive,” Zurek says. “These guys have elegantly integrated the use of the iPhone and also have leveraged a lot of hot bands,” including Coldplay, Dave Matthews Band, Katy Perry, and Lady Gaga.

Zurek loves calling the Bay Area home-she has a place in San Francisco’s Pacific Heights neighborhood and her main home in Mountain View-not just for the many days of good driving weather. She also loves the wineries (Rombauer in St. Helena and Thomas Fogarty in Woodside in particular) and restaurants. A new favorite is Madera at the recently opened Rosewood Hotel in Menlo Park. “Silicon Valley, especially around Sand Hill Road, has a real need for more restaurants,” Zurek says. Hear that, restaurateurs?

Jeff Clavier

For the past five years, Jeff Clavier has been funding very-early-stage Internet consumer companies. He’s helped sell six of them, leading to success for the founders and enviable profits for him. Clavier began investing his own money in early stage companies in 2004, making a grand total of 24 angel investments in amounts ranging from $35,000 to $100,000 in very-early-stage companies. In 2007, he raised a $15 million venture fund, named it SoftTech VC, and with that has invested sums ranging from $100,000 to $500,000 in companies including Mint.com and Foodzie.com. He’s made a grand total of 64 investments so far in his career.

“Five years ago I was pretty much a nobody in terms of early stage Internet investing,” Clavier says. “But through hard work with entrepreneurs and following my gut as to what might be an interesting investment, I’ve become one of the brand names.” Indeed, in 2008, BusinessWeek named him a “Web 2.0 Kingmaker” and one of the “25 Most Influential People on the Web.”

And if you think this French kingmaker, born in Tours in the Loire Valley, lives a glamorous life, you’d be correct, although he denies it. The image of the venture capitalist doing all of his deals on the golf course is mostly a myth, he says. But appreciation for the good life becomes apparent when Clavier talks about wine; when he moved to the United States, he brought his wife, his kids, and his wine cellar. “I have a bunch of old French wines which I still cherish and appreciate,” he says. “But I’m actually very eclectic for a Frenchman,” meaning he doesn’t pooh-pooh New World wines like those from California, Chile, Argentina and South Africa. He prefers the small wineries of Sonoma and Dry Creek to the bigger names in Napa (his favorite is A. Rafanelli). “It reminds me of the small producers in France.”

Playing off of the wild success experienced in years past, the entire roster of players for the San Francisco 49ers are eagerly anticipating the return of Pasta Bowl III, presented by SanDisk on August 11. This charity dinner is a family-style affair that not only features the expected silent auction and youth activities, but also dishes up the nightly entertainment in the form of NFL players serving as celebrity waiters. The fundraising event is geared towards companies who want to demonstrate their commitment to philanthropy by showing their support for the San Francisco 49ers Foundation with the purchase of a table set for 18 guests. An upscale wine tasting reception will also be conducted, featuring selections from California’s wine country regions of Napa and Sonoma. In addition to the good time that is sure to be had with the likes of Frank Gore and Patrick Willis serving up plates of pasta, two celebrity team waiters will also host dinner guests at each of the sponsored tables.

Along with event partners Silicon Valley Leadership Group, the 49ers Foundation will donate the proceeds from Pasta Bowl III to support City Year San Jose/Silicon Valley, Santa Clara Athletic League, and Fresh Lifelines for Youth. Throughout the course of its 17-year history, the 49ers Foundation has served as the nonprofit extension of the legendary team, raising funds and community support for activities that inspire the youth of today to become respected and successful leaders of tomorrow. Team owner Jed York and co-chairmen Denise and John York lead the foundation’s mission and efforts, which has raised more than $8 million just in the last seven years alone, earning the philanthropy a well-revered reputation among National Football League foundations.

San Francisco 49ers and Silicon Valley Leadership Group’s Pasta Bowl III presented by SanDisk!
What: Charity Dinner with San Francisco 49ers players serving as celebrity waiters and table hosts
When: Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Where: Santa Clara Convention Center
Why: To advance the 49ers Foundation mission of supporting underserved youth. Proceeds will benefit City Year San Jose/Silicon Valley, Santa Clara Athletic League, and Fresh Lifelines for Youth
Dress: Evening casual
Price: Tables for 18 are available for $5,000, $10,000, and $18,000
Contact: teri.ramos@niners.nfl.net

By Olivia Hsu Decker

Travel and events have the power to lift our spirits while refreshing our outlook on life. I hope my column offers the same kind of inspiration. In the months of May and June, I had the pleasure to attend many renowned events, all of which left me with a new perspective and feeling reinvigorated in my daily routine. I hope that you not only enjoy reading about my journeys, but also decide to go on a few yourself.

62nd Cannes International Film Festival
www.Festival-Cannes.com
This year’s Cannes International Film Festival featured a rare occurrence. Four former festival winners-Quentin Tarantino, Ken Loach, Jane Campion, and Lars von Trier-went up against new challengers from around the globe in a fight for the top prize: The Palme d’Or. Twenty films competed for the highest accolade, while another 19 battled for a secondary prize of the Grand Prix.

Tarantino, winner of the Palme d’Or for Pulp Fiction in 1994, presented his new film Inglorious Bastards, an action flick starring Brad Pitt and Christoph Waltz, who won “Best Actor” award for his performance. Britain’s Loach showed Looking for Eric, where Eric Cantona plays himself in this film about soccer. Jane Campion, the New Zealand director behind the Palme d’Or-winning The Piano presented Bright Star about 19th-century English poet John Keat’s love affair with his muse Fanny Brawne. And Denmark’s von Trier (Dancer in the Dark), showed Antichrist, a horror tale that depicts Satan as the creator of the world. The film stars Willem Dafoe and Charlotte Gainsbourg, who won “Best Actress”.

Spain’s Pedro Almodóvar showed Broken Embraces, a tale of a writer and director recounting an accident that left him blind 14 years earlier, and of a torrid relationship with an actress, played by Penelope Cruz; while Ang Lee presented Taking Woodstock, set against the background of the Woodstock music festival. Austrian Michael Haneke’s The White Ribbon, a black and white film set in a German village on the eve of WWI, won this year’s Palme d’Or.

Lenny Kravitz and Mariah Carey presented their movie Precious among the official selections. Mariah completely changed her diva persona to play a social worker in the film, which was also Lenny’s acting debut. Director Lee Daniels tells the story of Precious Jones, a morbidly obese high school girl pregnant by her father for the second time. The movie will open in L.A. and New York on November 6.

Monaco Grand Prix
www.formula1.com
This Formula 1 race, held annually at the Circuit de Monaco since 1929, is widely considered to be one of the most prestigious automobile races in the world. In fact, along with the Indianapolis 500 and the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Monaco Grand Prix forms the Triple Crown of Motorsport. The race winds along a narrow course through the streets of Monaco, complete with steep elevation changes, tight corners, and a dreaded tunnel, making it one of the most demanding tracks in all of Formula 1. Taking the flag in 2009 was British racer Jensen Button of the Brawn-Mercedes team.

This year, I watched the race from the Winston Churchill penthouse suite of Hotel de Paris, thanks to Robert Steer, owner of Senate Grand Prix, a specialty company that organizes deluxe hospitality packages with the best viewing locations for the Monaco Grand Prix. I enjoyed the magnificent view of Monte Carlo Harbor, while free-flowing Champagne, a lobster buffet lunch, and designer earplugs enhanced my experience.

I also checked out the action at the Hermitage Hotel and Alain Ducasse’s three-star restaurant, Louis V. Both were serving up excellent lunches on the terrace overlooking the race. But the luckiest spectators were out on the water; dozens of megayachts were docked at the harbor, offering perfect views of the race.

French Open at Roland Garros
www.RolandGarros.com
A client invited me to his center-court box at this year’s French Open, an offer I couldn’t refuse. This tennis tournament is referred to as Roland Garros by the French, named after a WWI pilot. We watched Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal dueling-and conquering- worthy opponents Alberto Martin and Marcos Daniel, respectively. We also were able to catch Marion Bartoli overcoming Pauline Parmentier in women’s singles.

Federer may have had a rough year, complete with some clutch losses and injuries, but he persevered and won his first French Open title by defeating Robin Soderling in the men’s final, becoming the sixth man ever to achieve a Grand Slam. With the victory, he also tied Pete Sampras’ record of 14 majors. Andre Agassi, 1999 Roland Garros champion and a client of mine, was on hand to present Federer with the trophy. For the women’s single title, Russian player Svetlana Kuznetsova beat Dinara Safina.

Jewels on the Amalfi Coast, Italy
While on a short trip to the Amalfi Coast to attend a 25th wedding anniversary, I visited three divine hotels that are owned by close friends.

Hotel San Pietro, Positano
www.ilsanpietro.it
Virginia Cinque has been a friend for more than a decade, but a private tour of her hotel was still an exciting treat for me. We began with a lovely lunch at the hotel’s seaside restaurant Carlino, where even a simple spaghetti alle vongole is dreamily delicious. Opened in 1970 and joined by Relais & Châteaux in 1979, the five-star San Pietro has earned its place as the best-known seaside hideaway in the world. There are 61 rooms, each with a private terrace with sea views. The famed terrace and its colorful, hand-painted ceramic benches have been featured in travel glossies the world over, as has the unique elevator embedded in the natural rock, which takes guests down to the private beach. The hotel also boasts a tennis court nestled between the cliffs, a spa, and colorful flower and vegetable gardens.

Bellevue Syrene, Sorrento
www.bellevue.it
Located in the most picturesque corner of old Sorrento, the hotel overlooks the Gulf of Naples with a breathtaking view of Mt. Vesuvius. The 50 spacious rooms are tastefully decorated with colorful furnishings, while the sumptuous lounges are infused with a mixture of antiques and whimsical modern décor. The romantic La Pergola on the terrace is my favorite spot in Italy. The Villa Pompeina, which was commissioned by William Waldorf Astor at the turn of the 20th century, now serves as a restaurant with two lounges and a colonnaded terrace, the perfect setting for weddings and dinner parties. The main restaurant, Il Don Giovanni (named after owner, mega hotelier Giovanni Russo) offers a great Neapolitan menu. The magical ambiance of this former 18th century private villa grabs at your heart and will certainly make you want to return to Sorrento!

JK Place, Capri
www.JKCapri.com
Virginia de Angelis, with the help of Israeli-Italian entrepreneur Ori Kafri, reinvented her family’s old Florentine style hotel into a new paradise in Capri. Overlooking the Marina Grande, the new JK Place is irresistibly chic with décor that invokes an affluent seaside charm. Building upon the sophisticated design of his JK Place in Florence, designer Michele Bonan brought the colors of the breathtaking sea into the hotel. The property is dotted with tasteful arrangements of art books, black and white framed photographs, white Casablanca lilies, and stylish but comfortable furnishings. Bonan’s other projects include the new Cipriani Ocean Resort and Residences in Miami Beach. During a lunch with Virginia, I quickly realized that JK Place is more than just a “pretty face”: the cuisine was amazing as well!

Happy Travels,

Olivia Hsu Decker
www.SanFranciscoFineHomes.com
www.FrenchVacation.com
Olivia.HsuDecker@SothebysRealty.com

By Warren Sheets

Throughout the past 100 years, our cultures have evolved, but so too have our expectations. This is particularly evident in the interiors of our homes. What used to be referred to as “interior decorating” now has been overshadowed by “interior design.” The term is splashed around very broadly amongst professionals, non-professionals, and the self-proclaimed alike. However, it is important to understand the distinct difference between the two designations.

The roots of an interior decorator can be traced to historic England, where those whom held the title of “decorator” were actually painters, albeit not the type of painter we think of today. These were individuals with talents that went beyond simply applying lacquer to the walls; they also provided exotic finishes like glazing, antiquing, faux wood graining, and faux stone finishes, in addition to providing and installing wall coverings. Some of the more entrepreneurial decorators eventually expanded their services and began providing advice about interior décor, helping their clientele locate custom-made furnishings.

This profession was absorbed by our American culture all the way until the 1950s, when the pervading architectural style began to transition from traditional to modern design. The role of the decorator began to transform as well. The title of “interior decorator” came into existence, and these gurus were generally retained by the country’s very affluent.

In the mid-’70s however, “interior decorator” evolved into a new profession that is now mostly referred to as “interior designer.” As more modern technologies began to be introduced into “homes of tomorrow,” architects were burdened with additional responsibilities. Many found themselves unable to dedicate the same time to a project as they had in the past. As a result, attention to detail, particularly in the interiors, began to lessen. As a whole, architects became more consumed with the exterior of a home and the project management of their consultants.

It was at this point that the field of interior architecture was born and was assumed by the role of the interior designer. In retrospect it was great for the industry; the interior designer worked with the architect as a dedicated consultant on the project, responsible for all aspects of the home’s interior.

Though some would argue that the field of interior design has grown to become more prevalent, interior decorators do still exist today. At Warren Sheets Design, we have many clients that do not require the complete services of an interior designer. In many cases, these clients have acquired a home with good architectural bones, and therefore only need to furnish and accessorize the space, with no need to address the interior architecture.

When someone asks me what we do at Warren Sheets Design, I tell them that when we assume the role of the interior designer we design and specify what happens on the floors, walls, and ceilings of a home along with designing the furnishings, artwork and accessories. Often times in our first meeting with an architect, he or she is pleased to learn that they can hand us a blank interior shell. This leaves the architect more time to spend on the exterior and project management aspects of the job.

As interior designers, we design and specify the flooring materials and layout, looking at how the flooring material goes together. If you decide to install a wood floor in one room and carpeting in another, and have not thought this out in advance, the thickness of the wood floor can be one-and-a-half inches more than the carpet. By not depressing the floor where wood is to be installed, you could end up with an unsightly and unnecessary elevation change. Or by not having the advantage of knowing in advance that you are going to use hand-made tile wainscot on bathroom walls, there is a very good chance that the thickness of the tile at the walls will protrude beyond that of the door casing.

We provide elevated drawings of every wall in a home, showing what materials are applied to each surface, whether it is wood wainscot, panel molding, hand-made tiles, or marble. We draw patterns indicating how the materials are laid together and specify the materials to be used. This detailed process goes beyond the walls-we even include the inside of showers.

During our process, we work with the project architect to adjust the floor plan as required, often adding niches or built-in bookcases. We also draw the designs for kitchen cabinets, butler’s pantries, fireplaces, and closet interiors-even the ceilings get a fair share of our attention, as we decide between soffits with indirect lighting, wood beams, barrel vaults, or crown moldings, of course paying special attention to the finish.

Lastly, we direct our attention to the many details of a home, designing fabulously articulated doors throughout the house, including the front entry door. We design base moldings, door casings, edge details for marble tops, staircases and stair railings, light fixtures, door hardware, and anything that attaches itself to the floor, walls, or ceilings.

We refer to all of these entities as a whole, as the “architectural backgrounds” of a home. This is the role of today’s interior designer. Sometimes we refer to this process as “interior architectural design,” which is why we also have a licensed architect as a member of our staff.

There is a great difference between an interior decorator and an interior designer. At our firm, we think of them as being responsible for two distinct yet complementing roles. This is why we provide both services. By fully addressing an interior from all aspects, and by developing a comprehensive set of drawings, our clients are able to visualize a complete picture of their interior before dollars are spent and mistakes are made. We do not believe in commencing work on a project until we, as well as our clients, know exactly what materials are being used on every surface, and the design is fully complete.

Designing your interior from the beginning to the end on paper is a very good way to assure the road to a fabulous interior-at least that is what our clients tell us!

Cheers,

Warren Sheets Design
1661 Mission St.
San Francisco, CA 94114
415.626.2320
www.warrensheetsdesign.com

By Christina Bohnstengel

Photography by Chris Hardy

This August, Beth Nickel, a partner in four renowned wine country estates, will once again play hostess to the V Foundation Wine Celebration.

California’s wine country is one steeped in a heritage as rich as its soil and as sweet as its grapes. The culture of the region has enamored wine enthusiasts from around the world year after year, calling to those with a nose for the finer things in life.

This year, on Friday, August 7, a celebration will begin in this acclaimed region of the country. Throughout the day, hundreds of people will descend on America’s beloved Napa Valley to start the jubilant fundraising weekend, filled with family and friends with a passion for life, love, fine wine, and cancer research. The lobby at the Villagio Inn & Spa will transform into the unofficial party headquarters for the weekend, with revelers enjoying the DJ, dancing, and drinks as they reunite with familiar faces from years past. After two days of educational seminars, the attendees will gather together at the wine estate of Nickel & Nickel, where the bucolic space between the old barn and the new barrel chai will be transformed into an elegant entertainment venue fit for the finest of fundraising galas.

This event is the 11th annual V Foundation Wine Celebration, which raises money to support cancer research in honor of college basketball legend and ESPN commentator, Jimmy Valvano.

While the first gala dinner for the V Foundation Wine Celebration took place in 1998 at the former Coppola estate (now Rubicon), since 2004 Beth Nickel has taken on the role of gracious and beloved hostess for the event at Nickel & Nickel, one of the four wineries in which she is a partner. Beth’s own story with cancer is, as all are, a touching one that still pulls on the heartstrings of everyone who knows her. Her husband, Gil Nickel, passed away in 2003 due to an aggressive form of melanoma. Just three months before his death, despite being gravely ill, Gil made his final public appearance at the Wine Celebration’s signature Saturday night party. “Gil got up to the microphone, thanked everyone for what they were doing for cancer research, and said, ‘It is going to be too late for me, but not too late for people down the road, thanks to you guys.’ He encouraged the audience to do what they love, do it with passion, and do it now,” explains Beth. “He commanded them to do whatever it took to live a fulfilled and happy life. He got a standing ovation that night and kind of went out with a bang, if you will.”

Bob Lloyd, Jim Valvano’s teammate and roommate, and chairman of both the V Foundation and the Wine Celebration, commented, “I don’t think I’d ever heard anyone speak so directly to the very core of what Jim believed. Gil Nickel stood up there and said, ‘Enjoy your life.’ The room was pumped and full of inspiration, and since that day the entire Nickel & Nickel team have been a part of the V Family.”

The Nickel & Nickel team is comprised of Larry Maguire, Dirk Hampson, Gil’s son Jeremy Nickel, their nephew Erik Nickel, with Beth as partner and proprietress. But Nickel & Nickel is not their only wine country baby. They also operate Dolce, which produces a Napa Valley late harvest wine; En Route, a pinot noir from northern California’s Russian River Valley (their latest release for 2009); and Far Niente, which makes Napa Valley estate chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon (the oldest of the family’s “children”). Beth and Gil first discovered Far Niente on a scouting trip to the region in the 1970s. Though their own storybook romance began on the farmlands of Oklahoma, the magnetic attraction that emanates from the California wine country called to the couple, and they set out on an adventure west to try their hand at winemaking. Armed with an in-depth knowledge of all things botanical (both grew up in family-owned nurseries), they came to Napa Valley with the dream of creating a world-class wine estate.

“We looked at wineries that were working as well as properties that had not yet been planted,” says Beth, explaining that they constantly revised and fine-tuned their wants and needs throughout their two-year search. They came across an abandoned, gorgeous stone building in Oakville, and where many would see a crumbling building and not be drawn to it, the Nickels saw promise. “We loved old buildings that were of historic significance, although we had never tackled a big restoration project like that. But part of Gil’s genius was that he was a real visionary,” says Beth. “So he looked at that old building that was ankle deep in debris and could see the grand opening candlelit party that would take place inside. He could think it up, create the plan, and make it happen. It was inspiring to be in his presence.” Bob Lloyd echoed similar sentiments when asked to speak about Gil’s personality. “I only need one word to describe Gil,” says Lloyd. “Beloved-by all who knew or encountered him.”

After three years, the restoration of Far Niente was complete, and the first chardonnay and cabernet produced on site were released in 1982 (though ‘79, ‘80, and ‘81 vintages were released from a temporary location until Gil’s vision of the grand opening celebration came to fruition). “The goal was, and still is, to create only a small amount of extremely high-quality chardonnay and cabernet,” explains Beth. With that mission unarguably accomplished, the Nickels set out to tackle new vintner challenges, and after introducing Dolce in 1992, introduced the first Nickel & Nickel single vineyard varietals-four cabernets, one merlot, and one zinfandel-in 2000. “Where Far Niente’s different blends could be the equivalent of the orchestra coming together, up the road at Nickel & Nickel, we see it as the soloist performing separately,” says Beth.

Like its sister winery, Nickel & Nickel also included a very significant restoration project. John C. Sullenger built the original house that sits on the property in 1884. The Nickels once again put their magic touch on a dilapidated structure, and now it is the space where the Nickel & Nickel team greet guests and hold tastings. The charming beauty of the entire estate led organizers of the Wine Celebration to choose it as the permanent home of the Saturday evening benefit. Bob Lloyd explained why. “With cancer, it’s personal. This is a gathering of friends and family, united in a singular mission-and what better place to do that than in the veritable ‘living room’ of dear friends. And what a setting it is,” Lloyd says, explaining that Gil’s prized car collection always lines the west side of the tents as a gentle nod to his presence.

Julie Constantin, cofounder of the Wine Celebration, commented on the impact of Beth’s efforts year after year. “From the get-go, Beth touched everyone with her calm and loving support of Gil throughout his illness. She has channeled her immense love for her husband into helping to create a gracious, personal event at her winery, and her efforts on behalf of skin cancer research will have a profound influence on the lives of so many people. She embodies the credo set forth by Jim Valvano: Don’t give up, never give up.”

This year, attendees at the Wine Celebration signature fundraising event will be thrilled to welcome back Mike Krzyzewski, better known as Coach K, head basketball coach of Duke University and coach of the 2008 Gold Medal U.S. Men’s Olympic team, along with his wife, Mickie, who will host the evening after a two-year hiatus while training for the Olympics. Coach K will be accompanied by a team of who’s who in the sports world, including the voice of Monday Night Football, Mike Tirico, and college and pro football coaching phenom Lou Holtz. From the spirited live auction to the world-class performance by The Pointer Sisters, the evening is sure to be a smashing success, both socially and financially. Last year’s celebration raised more than $3.9 million, and because the endowment is already fully funded, 100 percent of the proceeds from the fundraising weekend go directly to support cancer research.

Schedule of Events
FRIDAY, AUGUST 7

Michael Chiarello hosts From Farm to Fork to Flavor: A Discovery of the Difference Between Taste and Flavor
2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Historic Barrel Room
V Marketplace, Yountville

Departure Reception
4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Groezinger Lawn

Winemaker Dinners
Guests can choose to dine at one of six exclusive wineries with meals prepared by top chefs from the area.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 8
Daytime events
Cancer Forum
9:30 a.m to 11:30 a.m.