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South Bay Accent - Dec 2014/Jan 2015

OPENING LINES MORE THA3N 5YEARS From the Editor H 4 South Bay Accent appy holidays! So, it’s not the most relaxing time of year, but there’s no denying that this is the season for all things merry, bright and meaningful. Step inside these pages and have a look. Food and drink are front and center at every celebration, so why not fill the salvers and stemware with some fascinating fun? In our story, “Artisan Cheese à la Marin,” writer Susan Kerr guides us across the Golden Gate Bridge and into scenic west Marin County for a tour of five dairy farms churning out award-winning, artisan cheeses. Take this lively romp through herds of goats, cows—even water buffalo— and learn all about the luscious, local products at the forefront of the latest food revolution. As an added bonus, you’ll find great party tips here on the fundamentals of selecting and serving cheeses. Bright beverage notions come courtesy of writer Susan Hathaway, who spills all in “Raising the Bar on Holiday Spirits,” a roundup of 10 nearby spots where you can toast the season with some of the finest craft cocktails in the region. From homemade bitters to handmade syrups, local bartenders are using creative, inspired ingredients to concoct drinks worthy of the most discriminating cocktail connoisseur. Our story also includes favorite recipes from featured mixologists to try at home. Thoughts of food and drink always bring to mind our comprehensive Dining Guide, a great resource to keep on hand all season long. Here you’ll discover the ideal restaurant to gather with friends and family, as well as an abundance of fine food to satisfy all appetites and budgets. And at this time of year, we’re often reminded of another aspect of food— its scarcity for those who most need it. We hope you’ll take a moment to read Pam Marino’s compelling profile of AnnMarie Zimmermann, executive director of Loaves and Fishes in San Jose. Our feature, “A Hunger to Help,” traces Zimmermann’s career path from globe-trotting, high-tech manager to nonprofit leader on a mission to feed the hungry among us. If you’re inspired to help, we’ve added some easy ways to become involved. The seasonal theme continues with “The Fine Art of Giving,” a dazzling array of art-themed gifts found in our annual Holiday Guide. There’s something awesome for everyone, from museum-quality décor to elegant gadgets. The guide also offers a lively review of Festive Events—merry outings and entertainments custom made for this bustling season. And of course there will never be a dull moment thanks to Calendar, brimming with two full months of fun-filled things to do and places to go. In this issue, be sure to check out the show-stopping party fashions and accessories in Style and the parade of imaginative new products in Spotlight. Additionally, our special section, Gifts Galore and More, is a one-stop shop for all things holiday—from perfect presents to great getaways. And, look for The V.I.P. Guide: Our A-List of Resources, a showcase for outstanding companies doing business throughout the Bay Area. Holiday preparations may become increasingly frenzied, but the season holds untold moments of joy and beauty. We hope you find them all. Donna Krey Senior Editor SOUTH BAY ACCENT Founder/Publisher Sherran Lacey Senior Editor Donna Krey Creative Director Greg Silva Production Director Jerome Callens Contributing Editors Stephen Ellison Wendy Dunaway Wall Travel Editor Ludmilla Alexander Calendar Editor Wendy Dunaway Wall Advertising Coordinator Lorraine Gabbert Contributing Writers Susan Hathaway Susan Kerr Pam Marino Contributing Photographers Chris Ayres Teresa Giovanzana Proofreader Anne Gelhaus Advertising Mitch La Crosse Acc ounting Manager Ruchi Gowda Consultant Mary Dorner Subscriber Services Subscription price in U.S.A. and possessions $20.00 (one year/six issues), $36.00 (two years/12 issues), $48.00 (three years/18 issues). Add $20.00 per year for foreign addresses. Single copy price $3.95. Back issues $5.95. Postage and handling $3.00. Advertising and Editorial Off ices 950 S. Bascom Ave., Suite 3110 San Jose, California 95128 408/244-5100 • 408/244-9283 Fax info@southbayaccent.com SOUTH BAY ACCENT, 2014, Volume 37 Number 3, is published by Sherr Publications, Inc., 950 S. Bascom Ave., San Jose, CA 95128. 408/244-5100. Sherran Lacey, President. Entire contents copyright SOUTH BAY ACCENT Magazine 2014©, by Sherr Publications, Inc., all rights reserved. Printed in U.S.A. Nothing may be reproduced in whole or part without written permission from the publisher. The magazine assumes no responsibility for the return of unsolicited manuscripts. OF EDITORIAL EXCELLENCE


South Bay Accent - Dec 2014/Jan 2015
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