Food Bank Banter by Nicole Ramirez, Director of Programs
With Respect Marion Irvine (October 19, 1929 – August 30, 2025) was a Dominican Sister of San Rafael whose life blended devotion, education, athletic achievement and social justice. After decades as a teacher and principal, she gained international fame in her 50s as “The Running Nun,” setting age-group world records and competing in the U.S. Olympic Trials marathon at age 54. In her later years she was an outspo- ken advocate for the marginalized and the imprisoned, leaving a legacy of faith in action and indomitable spirit. Eric Muhler, a talented jazz pianist and composer, was celebrated for his recordings and performances across the Bay Area. A longtime resident of Lagunitas, he was also an avid mountain biker who loved the West Marin outdoors. He is survived by his two daughters, Zoe and Alexandra. We recently learned that two wonderful musicians who lived in Forest Knolls for many years have passed away. Joe New was a world class songwriter, singer and musician. Jay Butler’s reggae music resonated from his outdoor stage and studio on Resaca. In our Spring issue of Stone Soup we will share more about these musi- cians. If you have any stories to share let us know by emailing info@sgvcc.org Memories of Darrell Phipps by The Beckerley Family We first met Darrell and Marcia Phipps 50 years ago when we moved to the San Geronimo Valley, we have enjoyed 50 years of friendship with the Phipps family. Marcia passed earlier this year. Darell missed her so much. Darell was an incredible person, always there to help anyone that asked. He was a Master Carpenter; he could build or fix anything. He had a great love for surfing. We called him the Fire Baba because he made the biggest and best Bonfires at Limantour Beach. Three or four times during the year we would gather to cel- ebrate family and life on the beach. Some of us also called him the Wizard because of his lifelong long hair and beard. You would also see him often on Sir Francis Drake driving his old Volk- swagen Bus called Blue Bear. He was a man for all seasons, so lovable, so family oriented. Condolences to Alyssa, Colin, Jessie and all the family. Our love goes out to all the Phipps family.
Food for All
As the seasons change and we approach winter, our greatest concern at the San Geronimo Valley Community Center Food Bank is maintaining consistency in our food distribution. We have seen a significant rise in overall participation since Covid, and that increased need has not subsided. Low-income families and indi- viduals struggle to survive in Marin County, where large income disparities and a high cost of living create persistent hardship. With the recent changes in CalFresh/SNAP (Food Assistance Program) ben- efits, many individuals experienced a temporary “pause” in the issuance of their November 2025 benefits due to the federal government shutdown. This pause in critical benefits that provide food for low-income families and individuals has deeply impacted our clients. We serve, on average, up to 700 individuals every Thursday. Our clients include families with children, single adults, seniors, immi- grants, veterans, and the unhoused. In early November, we took a survey at our Food Bank to understand what the impact of this pause in benefits would be, and we learned that over 215 people coming through our line were losing benefits. The worry and the impacts are very real. Pausing access to food is undignified at best and inhumane at worst, and here at the Center we are grateful and proud to be part of a well-orchestrated network of food distribution. Working with our partners at the SF/Marin Food Bank to fill the gaps during this pause, we have proudly been able to serve all who come to us. Donations from EXTRAFOOD.org, Marin French Cheese Co., and local contributions—from excess harvests of apples, pears, non-perishables, and produce—have supplemented our food supply. We are also grateful for the monetary donations that support our efforts to serve the community. Food access is a human right, and the Community Center is committed to ensuring that food is on every table. We couldn’t do it alone; our greatest strength is our partnerships, relationships, and devoted com- munity that contribute to our mission of connection and support. The San Geronimo Valley Community Center Food Bank plays a major role in supporting the community when broader systems become unsteady and unreli- able. Food is a basic right, and when that right is threatened, the entire com- munity feels the effects. It has been amazing to witness how our community has shown up. It truly takes local action and dedication to a greater cause to make a difference. With your support, we can continue providing free, accessible food to all—rain or shine.
Donate today at sgvcc.org. We make the difference!
The Community Center’s amazing Food Bank volunteers
Page 4 SGV Community Center Stone Soup
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