Happy holidays!

As 2012 draws to a close, I look back at what has been an incredible active year, and look forward to a busy 2013. We have accomplished more than I would have imagined both inside and outside of City Hall this past year, and I am grateful for everyone's support.

District 2 has never been busier - from hosting the America's Cup, to a myriad of local neighborhood issues, we are working hard in every corner of the district. A ton of issues remain, but overall I am thankful that our parks are being re-done, libraries are being opened, streets are getting re-paved, and our neighborhood commercials corridors are bustling with activity.

In 2013, we have a number of major issues on the horizon. They include development projects such as the CPMC rebuild and the Golden State Warriors arena, as well as a number of important ballot initiatives including funding for our public schools, and dealing with our City's unfunded healthcare liability. It is going to be a very active year.

Personally, the past few months have been very busy for my family as we welcomed our new baby boy, Kane, into the world on October 28th. While we are all suffering from a lack of sleep, Kane is a healthy baby boy and we are a very blessed family.

Finally, as we enjoy the holidays here in San Francisco, I ask that everyone keep the victims of the recent violence in Connecticut in our prayers. My January Marina Times article will focus on the issue, but please keep their families in our hearts.

LEGISLATION AND POLICY UPDATE

Audit of Non-Profit Contracts Managed by DPH and HSA Earlier this year, I requested that the Budget and Legislative Analyst's Office perform an audit of the City's departments with the largest amount of professional services/non-profit contracts. Those departments include the Department of Public Health (DPH) and the Human Services Agency (HSA). Although I recognize that our nonprofit organizations help the City leverage our General Fund dollars to provide much needed and critical services for our community, we can do a better job of monitoring those contracts and addressing corrective action policies if needed. As a City, we should also develop department wide standards to avoid confusion, so we can address all professional services contracts in a consistent manner. I called for a hearing on the audit itself and I'm in the process of developing legislation to tighten up the process. The hearing is expected to be held in late January.

Correcting Federal Tax Discrimination for our LGBT Community On November 20, 2012, I introduced legislation to counter a discriminatory tax levied by the federal government on same-sex spouses and domestic partners. Currently, San Francisco public employees who wish to add their same-sex spouse or domestic partner to their health care coverage are taxed unfairly because the Federal Government views their healthcare premiums as taxable income. The additional tax is one of the many results of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). Married LGBT couples are already denied federal protections offered to other married couples, such as immigration rights, Social Security survivor's benefits, and the ability to file joint tax returns. But this additional tax on married same-sex spouses/domestic partners adds another sting to the injustice of the Defense of Marriage Act. Individuals should not be discriminated against simply because the partner of their choice is of the same gender. My legislation will provide a one-time stipend to San Francisco public employees who have a same-sex spouse or domestic partner on their health care coverage to compensate for this unjust tax by the Federal Government. It will also bring more equality to our City, which has always been at the forefront in the struggle for true equality and justice. Annual Fleet Week Event - October 5, 2012 - General's Residence, Fort Mason On October 5, 2012, we successfully held our second annual fundraiser to benefit my Neighborhood Schoolyards Project. So far, with the money raised last year and this year, we opened more than 20 schoolyards on the weekends for family recreation. Our goal is to open as many as possible across the City to provide more open space and build community in our neighborhoods. Thank you to everyone who came out and supported the event and for making it a huge success. We couldn't have done it without all our generous sponsors and supporters who purchased tickets. We are also grateful for the restaurants who contributed food and drink for the party including the Brickyard, Mamacita, Original Joe's, E&O Trading Company, Starbuck's, Susie Cakes, La Boulange, and Wayfare Tavern. See you next year during Fleet Week!

Press Conference to Announce Super Bowl Bid Committee - October 18, 2012 Earlier this fall, the NFL officially invited San Francisco and Miami, Florida, to submit bids to compete in hosting the 50th Super Bowl. Our Super Bowl Bid Committee will deliver its bid package to NFL owners on May 7, 2013. On May 21, 2013, San Francisco will formally present its bid in a live pitch to the 32 NFL owners in Boston. As the Supervisor who negotiated with the 49ers earlier this year regarding the terms of their departure from Candlestick, part of those negotiations insisted on San Francisco being the Host City to any future Super Bowls, and I will be serving as the Board's liaison to the Super Bowl bid committee. I will put my full weight behind our effort to bring the Super Bowl to the San Francisco Bay Area in the next few years.

Election Results The recent election resulted in the passage of several important local propositions, which I supported. These Propositions will have significant and positive impacts throughout San Francisco for years to come. Proposition B - the $195 million Clean and Safe Neighborhood Parks Bond - passed with overwhelming support. The money will go to improving parks across the City - including Mountain Lake Park and Moscone East Playground in District 2. It will also be used to improve our waterfront open spaces, enhance water quality, clean up environmental contamination along the Bay, replace unsafe playgrounds, fix restrooms, improve access for the disabled, and ensure the seismic safety of park and recreation facilities.

Proposition C also passed, creating a Housing Trust Fund that supports affordable housing for low- income and moderate-income households. Before this was put on the ballot, I worked with the Mayor's Office to allow for down payment assistance loans for our first responders, such as a police officers, firefighters, and EMTs. Currently almost two-thirds of our first responders live outside the City, and I feel that it is important for these people who protect and care for us to be able to live in the City they dedicate themselves to. Proposition C goes a long way towards making that a reality. Specifically, the Housing Trust Fund will provide $15 million for a loan program for down payment assistance for moderate-income homebuyers and emergency first responders.

In addition, San Francisco finally put an end to its fundamentally unfair payroll tax by passing Proposition E. The payroll tax is unfair because it is a tax on jobs instead of a tax on sales or profits, which ultimately discourages businesses from adding new employees and is a huge disincentive to creating new jobs in San Francisco. Proposition E fixes our unfair tax system and replaces it with a gross receipts tax that will help small businesses and startups create more jobs. It will also provide a more predictable and steady source of revenue to our General Fund. I'm also pleased that my payroll tax exemption legislation for small businesses will still apply as the gross receipts tax is phased in over the next few years.

The election also resulted in two new Supervisors. On January 8, 2013, London Breed and Norman Yee will be sworn in, representing Districts 5 and 7, respectively. I am hopeful that together we will be able to maintain an atmosphere of cooperation in City Hall in spite of any differences we may have, in order to be able to work towards the betterment of our city.

National Park Service and Alcatraz Ferry Service On November 20, 2012, I introduced a resolution urging the National Park Service (NPS) to abandon plans to locate the Alcatraz Ferry Service at the Fort Mason Piers and to focus their efforts on working with the Port of San Francisco to continue service at the Port. Over 1.4 million people a year visit Alcatraz Island from their existing service site at Fisherman's Wharf. Fisherman's Wharf is a bustling tourist corridor, with all of the amenities that a visitor would look for - all serviceable by public transportation. Transferring those 1.4 million visitors to a primarily residential location in Fort Mason, versus Fisherman's Wharf, will create too many adverse impacts on our neighborhood which already deals with significant problems having to do with parking and traffic. I have already met with the NPS to encourage them to work with the Port and I look forward to continuing that effort.

DISTRICT 2 UPDATE

Metro Theater Groundbreaking - November 13, 2012 I was thrilled to attend the groundbreaking for the New Metro Theater located at 2055 Union St. (between Buchanan St & Webster St.) on November 13, 2012. The project will preserve the historical elements of the theater while activating the space with Equinox as the main tenant, a community room, new retail space, and a small theater for public use. Having grown up going to the movies at the Metro, I'm sad that single screen theaters are no longer economically viable but I'm thrilled about this project which is supported by the Union Street Association, the Golden Gate Valley Neighborhood Association, the Cow Hollow Association, the Marina Community Association, and the Marina Cow Hollow Neighbors and Merchants. Construction will start after Thanksgiving with an expected opening of January 1, 2014.

Marina Family Fest - September 30, 2012 We partnered with the Marina Community Association again this year to put on another great family friendly event. This year's Marina Family Fest was a huge success with over 6,000 people attending on the Marina Green. The event also served as a benefit for the Blue Bear School of Music, a local nonprofit which provides superior quality and affordable popular music education to aspiring musicians of all ages and skill levels. The kids enjoyed pony rides, a petting zoo, bouncy houses, and other fun activities such as face painting and balloon animals. There were Gourmet Food Trucks, a beer and wine garden, and plenty of other activities for the adults as well. My family is already looking forward to next year! Thanks again to all the sponsors who made the event possible and to all the families for coming out to enjoy the day.

Palace of Fine Arts Outreach Committee As many of you know, the Exploratorium will soon be leaving the Palace of Fine Arts and will relocate to Piers 15 & 17 in spring 2013. I have been adamant with the Recreation and Parks Department (RPD) that they must find a use that is compatible with the community and neighborhood and must conduct appropriate outreach. RPD hosted two community meetings to solicit input from the public on potential uses and priorities for the Palace of Fine Arts and to answer any questions. RPD will then engage in a competitive bidding process to solicit a new tenant. We have an incredible chance to select a tenant that will add to the community and to the experience that is inherently a part of the Palace. Your voice and comments are essential.

Reinstating Liquor License Controls- Union Street Neighborhood Commercial District (NCD) Earlier this year, the Board of Supervisors passed legislation that consolidated and updatedthe various restaurant definitions that were in the Planning Code. The legislation was necessary and received unanimous support at the Board. However, when the definition of "restaurant" was changed, it inadvertently unraveled liquor license controls that were in place in the Union Street Neighborhood Commercial District. Previously, restaurants with hard liquor bars were considered as two separate uses - both as a "restaurant" and as a "bar." Therefore, since bars were prohibited in the Union Street NCD, restaurants could not obtain a new liquor license. The new definition of a restaurant allowed restaurants to have a full liquor license without being considered a bar, as long as they operated as a bona fide eating establishment (at least 51% of gross receipts come from food service). Although that may work for some NCDs, both our Union Street Association and the Golden Gate Valley Neighborhood Association were not comfortable with allowing more liquor licenses in the corridor. Both organizations have fought long and hard to come to an agreement on these controls and believe that they are working quite well. Our office successfully passed legislation to reinstate these controls and will continue to work with the merchants and neighbors to maintain one of the most successful NCDs in the City.

Francisco Reservoir There have been several exciting and encouraging developments recently around the Francisco Reservoir. The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) received approval to remove the 60+ year-old roof. The dilapidated roof posed a safety hazard, and an eye sore for the neighbors for many years. The removal and hauling went smoothly and completed the first step to completely remove the reservoir and then build a 100% open space park on the site.

I have been meeting with the SFPUC's new General Manager, Harlan Kelly, to brief him on the Francisco Reservoir Working Group's efforts and vision to create a public park at this location. We look forward to working together to make these efforts a reality. My office, in partnership with the Working Group, has scheduled preliminary briefing conversations with the San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department and will work with their real estate team to create a park on the site for generations to come. Our office views this project as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create over four acres of open-space for all San Franciscans to enjoy. CPMC As you may know, the negotiations regarding the California Pacific Medical Center proposed site on Van Ness and St. Luke's Hospital are still ongoing, but seem to be moving in the best direction for our City.

It has, and still remains my top priority to ensure we reach a deal that protects St. Luke's future while also building a Van Ness site hospital that truly serves the healthcare needs our of our community while mitigating the potential adverse effects on our neighborhoods in our District. I will continue to work diligently to negotiate and support a plan that offers the best long-term solutions for our healthcare needs for our entire city.

Fire Station #16 Renovation At the start of the New Year, I will convene a meeting with the San Francisco Fire Department (SFFD), Department of Public Works (DPW), and various neighborhood and merchants associations in our District for an introduction to the Fire Station #16, located at 2251 Greenwich Street, at Fillmore Street. At the meeting, we will review the need for a new station, discuss the new proposed plans, and strategize about the next-steps for including our wider community in the discussion. I look forward to working with the SFPD, DPW, and our community to move this important project forward towards completion. If you would like to get involved in the process, please do not hesitate to contact me directly at 415-554-7752, or at [email protected].

Presidio Parkway - October 12, 2012 On October 12, 2012, I attended the kick-off with House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi, Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez, Assemblyman Tom Ammiano and other federal and city officials, to celebrate the start of construction on the final stage (Phase II) of the Presidio Parkway. The new parkway is replacing the 76-year old Doyle Drive with a seismically safe design that will improve the structural and traffic safety of the roadway for decades to come. The final phase includes a new High Viaduct and Battery Tunnel, the Main Post Tunnels, and the Girard Road interchange. Work is expected to continue through 2016. For more information, visit www.presidioparkway.org

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

Restaurant Appreciation Month This year I chose to honor Pizzeria Delfina on California Street for the Board's Annual Restaurant Appreciation Month. Their original Mission Street location was founded in 2005 next door to sister restaurant Delfina, which they opened in 1998 to much acclaim. Pictured here with owners and founders - Craig and Annie Stoll, they opened their California Street location in 2009. Craig and Annie are dynamic and hardworking entrepreneurs and their commitment to quality food and service is commendable. Pizzeria Delfina is renowned for its delicious fusion of New York and Neapolitan style pizza and their excellent wine list. We are grateful they decided to open another location in District 2.

Mental Health Awareness Month For this year's Mental Health Awareness Month at the Board of Supervisors, I honored Lynn Fuller. Since her appointment to the Mental Health Board (MHB), Lynn has worked tirelessly to fulfill the Board's mission of making sure the interests of the mental health community are reflected in mental health policy, and ensuring quality mental health services for San Francisco. In her time on the MHB, she sought to increase the Board's standards by setting new requirements for the content of MHB presentations, recommending changes to make the Board's website more efficient and informative, and helping to produce the Board's annual report. Lynn is also a former Board Member of the Cow Hollow Association. Her service to her neighborhood, to the mental health community, and to our city is greatly appreciated.

IN THE COMMUNITY

September 5, 2012 - San Francisco Housing Action Coalition Membership Meeting I had a great discussion with the SFHAC regarding several issues including: possible CEQA reform, my condo lottery bypass legislation, housing for our first responders/emergency workers, and the housing trust fund measure that was on the ballot this past November. September 9, 2012 - Raoul Wallenberg Jewish Democratic Club and Bagels I spent a couple of hours on Sunday September 9th with members from the Raoul Wallenberg Jewish Democratic Club and the Jewish Community Center over bagels and coffee discussing citywide and local neighborhood issues. It was a great chance to meet more of their members. Also in attendance was my appointee to the Youth Commission - Lily Marshall-Fricker.

September 15, 2012 - Parks Bond Kick-Off On September 15, 2012 I was happy to join Mayor Lee, Phil Ginsburg - General Manager of the Recreation and Parks Department, and other elected officials for the Proposition B Campaign kickoff. Prop B, which ultimately passed, will provide much needed improvements to recreation facilities and playground equipment across the entire City.

September 20, 2012 - Silicon Valley Game Changers Panel I was honored to participate in the Silicon Valley Game Changers Panel to discuss how we can improve our local economy. Other participants included, David Lee (SV Angel), Jill Isenstadt (Samasource), and Alexis Ringwald (LearnUp). We discussed the number of start-ups that are being funded locally, the implications of the "Tech Boom" in San Francisco, and the potential impacts on the economy.

September 21, 2012 - Parks Alliance Gala I was excited to attend the Parks Alliance Gala this September. This celebration was held at the Angler's Lodge in Golden Gate Park and combined the experience of a wilderness encampment with the comforts of an urban party. The gala, which raised funds to support San Francisco's parks was a great success. Thank you to all those that attended to support our parks.

September 24 - 2012 - Argonne Elementary PTA Meeting I had a great time meeting parents and educators at the Argonne Elementary School's PTA meeting where I discussed my Neighborhood Schoolyards Project. The Argonne PTA is making great changes to their outdoor space and looks forward to participating in the program once construction is done. We look forward to working with them next year. Special thanks to Phil Ginsburg, General Manager of the Recreation and Park Department - and parent at Argonne Elementary - and School Board Member Hydra Mendoza for joining me that evening to support the program. September 24, 2012 - District PTA Meeting On September 24, 2012, I spoke to the District PTA regarding my Neighborhood Schoolyards Project and how we are partnering with our public schools to open up our schoolyards on the weekends. Since then, two more schools opened: William L. Cobb Elementary at 2725 California Street and Gordon J. Lau at 950 Clay Street. Wallenberg High School and Bret Harte Elementary were opened the weekend of October 6-7. Thank you to the School District, Rec & Park, and DPW for partnering with us to make this possible.

October 13, 2012 - Salvation Army Barbeque with the San Francisco Firefighters I was happy to attend the Salvation Army's Barbeque on Crissy Field with my son Jack - especially with the San Francisco firefighters serving up their delicious barbeque. The event benefited Railton Place - a new 110 unit, transitional and permanent residence for the homeless. Program services include, case management, substance abuse counseling, plus help with cooking, education, employment and money management through their life skills program. I presented the Salvation Army with a Certificate of Honor to thank them for all their efforts they make throughout the City.

October 17, 2012 - Aquatic Park Neighbors Meeting I had a great time with Aquatic Park neighbors discussing citywide issues and plans for the Francisco Reservoir. We are working with them and other neighborhood associations to create something incredible at the Reservoir for generations of San Franciscans to come.

October 18, 2012 - Lombard Hill Association Meeting On October 18th, I spoke at the Lombard Hill Association Meeting.The topic of discussion included how the city can better manage the effects of tourism on the Crooked Street. The Crooked Street is one of San Francisco's most popular tourist attractions, but it is also a place where neighbors carry on their daily lives. I was happy to hear from the neighbors in this area, so that I could hear and discuss their concerns. October 22, 2012 - Pacific Heights Residents' Association Annual Meeting I had a nice time with PHRA at their annual association meeting - even though it was Game 7 of the National League Series - we still managed to focus and discuss city and neighborhood issues. I left just in time to watch the Giants clinch the National League Championship. It was definitely a great night!

October 27, 2012 - Halloween Festival w/ PTA at Junipero Serra Elementary School I enjoyed spending time at the "Howling Hill" fall festival, at Holly Park, benefiting Junipero Serra Elementary School with my kids on October 27th. The event was packed with family- friendly activities, from the petting zoo, jumpy house, fire truck, and pumpkin patch, to fortune telling, dancing, and a puppy parade. My children and I had a blast; family events like these strengthen our community. Not only is it vital to support our local public schools, but it is essential to create safe spaces in our city where kids can play.

October 28, 2012 - Jordan Park Block Party I attended the Jordan Park Block Party on October 28th and witnessed neighbors coming together and working collectively to build a strong sense of community. I want to commend the Jordan Park Improvement Association for their continued hard work and dedication in preserving and enhancing their neighborhood. I would also like to give special thanks to President Larry Costello, whose outreach brought folks together and made this event so successful.

October 31, 2012 - Giant's Victory Parade I couldn't have asked for a more spectacular celebration of our World Series Champions than spending it with thousands of other ecstatic San Franciscans on Halloween. The ceremony officially began at 11:00 a.m. on Market Street and ended right in front of City Hall. Like our hometown heroes who showed remarkable determination, our loyal fans crowded the streets early in the morning. It was an exceptional moment that unified the city and filled me with great pride and honor to call this place my home. November 11, 2012 - Veteran's Day in the Presidio This November, I was proud to join House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi at "Veterans Day 2012: A Celebration through Service + Art." The event at Fort Scott honored those that have served in our nations' armed forces and helped raise community understanding of the military experience through the expression of art. I was honored to speak at this event and show my appreciation for those that have made sacrifices on our nation's behalf. It was also incredible to have my father with me - a retired veteran of the United States Air Force.

November 14, 2012 - Marina Community Association Annual Meeting In November, I joined over 150 neighbors at the Marina Community Association's (MCA) Annual meeting at the Golden Gate Yacht Club. I gave a run-through of major City and district issues, and also took questions from the crowd. Chief of Police Greg Suhr and Captain Ann Mannix, Captain of the Northern Station, were also in attendance and spoke on a variety of neighborhood issues. For more information on the MCA, visit www.sfmca.org.

December 4, 2012 - AIPAC General Membership Gala The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) San Francisco Club Membership Gala was a great gathering of community leaders, students, elected officials, and honored dignitaries representing a broad spectrum of the Jewish and political communities from across Northern California. I was honored to be invited and celebrate with the Committee.

December 6, 2012 - SF Rec & Park 83rd Annual Tree Lighting My family and I started the holiday season off with the San Francisco Recreation and Parks' annual Holiday Tree Lighting at McLaren Lodge in Golden Gate Park. It was a festive family event that included free carnival rides, arts and crafts, live entertainment, and a visit from Santa. Every year, I look forward to sharing this event with the many families that attend and enjoying another great feature Golden Gate Park has to offer.

December 7, 2012 - Presidio Tree Lighting On the heels of the Recreation and Park's Department tree lighting, I also brought my parents to enjoy the Presidio Tree Lighting. It was wonderful to share in this decades-old Presidio tradition tree-lighting ceremony with our community. We were joined by the San Francisco Conservatory Carolers for a little sing along after the lighting.

December 10, 2012 - Wallenberg Hanukkah Party I joined with many Raoul Wallenberg Democratic Club guests and members to celebrate their annual Wallenberg Hanukah party. The Club took the opportunity to present the Milton Marks Jr. Public Service Award to my colleague, Supervisor Scott Wiener, for all of his hard work in the community.

December 11, 2012 - Firefighters Local 798 Toys for Tots Event It was wonderful to witness the joy and delight the Firefighters of Local 798 gave this holiday season to so many young children. Hundreds of toys and gifts were handed out at this event under the rotunda inside City Hall. The event included a Santa Claus, a gift, and the chance for these children to meet real fireman. It was a gift to watch and participate in the gift giving.

December 17, 2012 - San Francisco Council of District Merchants Association Holiday Party It was my pleasure to support the Council of District Merchants Association's many members at their annual holiday party, as well as to honor their new President, Henry Karnilowicz. The many small businesses in San Francisco are the backbone of our City, and I am so proud to support them.

UPCOMING EVENTS

City of San Francisco

Please see below for a list of upcoming events being thrown by various event sponsors:

NERT Training Ongoing, 2013 If a major disaster were to occur, there are steps you can take to become trained from the San Francisco Fire Department's Neighborhood Emergency Response Team (NERT). You can sign up now for free training from the San Francisco Fire Department's Neighborhood Emergency Response Team (NERT). The 20-hour NERT program includes training in personal preparedness, light search and rescue, disaster medicine, shutting off utilities, and how to participate as a member of a neighborhood response team. NERT also offers continuing training for graduates, and activities that support building strong neighborhood teams. For more information, visit the NERT website at http://sfgov.org/sffdnert, or contact Lt. Erica Arteseros at (415)970-2022 or [email protected]. The SFFD Neighborhood Emergency Response Team is holding several new classes in 2013 in various parts of the City: To enroll, please call 415-970-2024 or Register on-Line at: http://www.sf-fire.org/index.aspx?page=879

Green Connections Project-Feedback Ongoing, 2012-2013; use the website to give feedback and input The Planning Department is looking for your input on the City's Green Connections project. The Green Connections project aims to improve routes to open space throughout San Francisco. The project builds on current efforts to create sustainable corridors that enhance mobility, green neighborhood streets, and improve pedestrian and bicycle access to our city's parks, open spaces and the waterfront. Since the project began last February, the Green Connections team has led over 20 outreach events to discover what routes people take to parks, and what the community's vision is for transforming these routes into Green Connections. Using these ideas we've developed a draft map and a design toolkit. We would like to hear from you! For more information, please visit: http://greenconnections.sfplanning.org

Out of Character: Decoding Chinese Calligraphy Friday, October 5, 2012-Sunday, January 13, 2013; Asian Art Museum Chinese calligraphy is a visual art. Rather than content, the fluid strokes, dots and lines that form each character are its focus. Centuries of tradition have created strict conventions governing the tools, formats, and scripts calligraphers use. Within these confines, artists make subtle choices that result in profound self-expression. Consider paying a visit to this special exhibit at the Asian Art Museum. For more information, please visit: http://www.asianart.org/calligraphy/

Holiday Ice Rink at Embarcadero Center Wednesday, November 7, 2012-Sunday, January 6, 2013, daily; Embarcadero Center Delighting families, couples and ice skating enthusiasts for over twenty years, the Holiday Ice Rink at the Embarcadero Center presented by Hawaiian Airlines - Hawai'i Flies with Us - will open for nine magical, fun filled weeks. Get ready to skate under the sun and stars along the beautiful waterfront at the largest outdoor rink, beginning November 7, 2012 through January 6, 2013. Take in a San Francisco holiday tradition at Embarcadero Center - where you can shop, skate, and dine and park for free. For more information, please visit: http://www.sanfrancisco.travel/events/?zventId=288704885

Neighborhood Emergency Response Training - N.E.R.T Wednesday, December 5, 2012-Wednesday, January 16, 2013; SFFD Division of Training The San Francisco Fire Department offers FREE Neighborhood Emergency Response Team Training.

The goal of this program is to help the citizens of San Francisco to be self sufficient in a major disaster situation by developing multi-functional teams, cross trained in basic emergency skills. Through this program, individuals will learn how to help themselves and their loved ones prepare for and better respond in a disaster. The training includes preparedness training as well as hands-on disaster skills. Classes have been offered throughout fall, and one final class will be offered at the following location:

Mission District San Francisco Fire Department Division of Training Folsom St. @ 19th Street Wednesdays, 6:00PM - 9:00PM January 2: Class 4 January 9: Class 5 January 16: Class 6

If you have any questions about the NERT program, please contact Lt. Arteseros at 415-970-2022 or email her at: [email protected]

For more information, please visit: http://sffd-nert-mission-trainingclass- es2.eventbrite.com/?rank=1#

Mariachi Sol de México de Jóse Hernàndez Friday, December 21, 2012, 7:30pm; Davies Symphony Hall Celebrate the holidays with the sounds of these blazing mariachi performers. Hear holiday favorites from US and Mexico, traditional Mexican music, and more in this celebration of Mexico's Christmas traditions. For more information, please visit: http://www.sfsymphony.org/Buy-Tickets/2012- 13/Mariachi-Sol-de-Mexico-de-Jose-Hernandez.aspx

Charles Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol' at ACT Friday, November 30-Monday, December 24, 2012, varied times; American Conservatory Theater Charles Dickens' classic tale brings the sights and sounds of an old-fashioned Christmas with this inspiring story and heartwarming treat for the whole family. Journey to Victorian London and the world of Ebenezer Scrooge, the tight-fisted merchant who learns that giving brings greater happiness than receiving. For tickets and information, please visit: http://www.act- sf.org/1213/christmascarol/index.html

New Years' Eve Masquerade Ball with the San Francisco Symphony Monday, December 31, 2012; Davies Symphony Hall It's a madly mysterious, stylishly sensational party and a concert with the San Francisco Symphony, some bubbly, dancing on the stage, and you. When the New Year is on the cusp, anything is possible. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit: http://www.sfsymphony.org/Buy-Tickets/2012-13/New-Year%E2%80%99s-Eve-Masquerade- Ball-with-the-San-Franci.aspx

San Francisco Chic! New Years' Eve Extravaganza Monday, December 31, 2012; The Westin Hotel, 50 Third St. Nestled within the heart of the city, San Francisco's New Year's Eve Extravaganza will be held at the beautiful Westin Hotel with multiple packages available! Enjoy a Champagne Reception, tantalizing sit-down dinner, with a Las Vegas styled dinner show. Following dinner, stroll through six separate rooms enjoying live Jazz, Rhythm and Blues, Salsa, Old School as well as Top 40 hits, or Comedy! Something for everyone! For more information, please visit: http://www.newyearsevesanfrancisco.com/

A Prairie Home Companion with Garrison Keillor Saturday, January 5, 2012, 2:45pm; San Francisco War Memorial Opera House A shy, introspective, persona is balanced by a sharp sense of humor, small-town wisdom and love of traditional folk and jazz by Radio Hall of Fame member Garrison Keillor. The host of the popular live radio show A Prairie Home Companion, Keillor is heard weekly on more than 400 National Public Radio. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit: http://events.sfgate.com/san_francisco_ca/events/show/290371187-a-prairie-home-companion- with-garrison-keillor-tickets

3rd Annual New Paradigms to Fund Biotech & Early-Stage Interactive Showcase Tuesday, January 8-Wednesday, January 9, 2013; Marines' Memorial Club & Hotel New Paradigms is the voice for alternative sources of capital for life science innovation. New keynotes, an Interactive Biotech Showcase, Unique Life Science Deals of 2012 & all day rooms for meetings. Taking place January 8-9, in San Francisco, during the week of the JP Morgan Healthcare event, the program attracts executives from the life science R&D & investment community. For more information, please visit: http://theconferenceforum.org/conferences/new-paradigms-to- fund-biotech/overview/

Tech Cocktail's SF Mixer and Startup Showcase Thursday, January 17, 2013, 6:30pm; Mighty, 119 Utah St. We are excited to be hosting another San Francisco mixer event as we showcase local technology companies and take a closer look at their latest achievements. Join us for an evening of fun mingling with other startup founders, technology enthusiasts, investors and entrepreneurs. It should be a lot of fun! For more information, please visit: http://techcocktailsanfrancisco2012.eventbrite.com/

Chinese New Year Concert and Celebration Saturday, February 2, 2013, 4:00pm; Davies Symphony Hall Welcome the Lunar New Year and the Year of the Snake. This family event features a mix of music and instruments in a fusion of East and West. It includes a festive reception with Asian instruments, dancers, Chinese calligraphers, and more. For more information, please visit: http://www.sfsymphony.org/Buy-Tickets/2012-13/Chinese-New-Year-Concert-and- Celebration.aspx

DeveloperWeek 2013 Conference Saturday, February 2-Thursday, February 7, 2013; SPUR Urban Center The first annual DeveloperWeek 2013 Conference February 2nd - 7th combines a 4-day educational conference, technology-specific app development contests, developer tech exhibitors, startup lightning pitches, and keynote talks from the top engineers across app development, data science, and mobile deployment. For more information, please visit: http://www.developerweek.com/

Russian National Orchestra Tuesday, February 12-Wednesday, February 13, 2013; Davies Symphony Hall When the Russian National Orchestra made its 1996 debut at the Proms in London, the Evening Standard wrote, "They played with such captivating beauty that the audience gave an involuntary sigh of pleasure." Hear this magnificent orchestra when it returns, conducted by Patrick Summer. The orchestra shines in a program featuring Smetana's blazing overture, Tchaikovsky's thrilling concerto, and Dvořák's beautiful symphony. For more information, please visit: http://www.sfsymphony.org/Buy-Tickets/2012-13/Russian-National-Orchestra-021213.aspx

Hearts & Heroes Luncheon Thursday, February 14, 2013, 11:30am-1:30pm; AT&T Park The annual Heroes & Hearts and Hearts After Dark events bring the community together each year to celebrate the important role San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center (The General) plays in the lives of all San Franciscans. They are also vital to the Foundation's fundraising efforts, as support raised from the events helps subsidize the Hearts Grants program. These grants are awarded to hospital programs with high-impact initiatives that contribute to the excellence of The General, many of which have the potential to develop sustainable funding. For more information, please visit: http://www.sfghf.net/hh/

Chinese New Year Run: Year of the Snake Sunday, February 17, 2013, 3:00pm; Chinatown The Chinatown YMCA, in San Francisco's historic Chinatown, will hold their 35th Annual Chinese New Year Run on Sunday, February 17,2013. This scenic route starts at Sacramento and Grant, winds its way through Chinatown and North Beach, and finishes on Kearny between California and Sacramento. A wonderful way to see the city! For more information, please visit: http://events.sfgate.com/san_francisco_ca/events/show/287584387-chinese-new-year-run-year- of-the-snake

Itzhak Perlman in Recital Sunday, February 17, 2013, 7:00pm; Davies Symphony Hall A player of legendary renown, Itzhak Perlman is a musician who exceeds mere superlatives. He is a superstar, a musician of technical wizardry, an interpreter of unmatched grace and power, a legend. He returns to San Francisco to take the stage at Davies Symphony Hall as part of the Great Performers Series, and lucky the listeners who hold tickets to his highly anticipated recital performance. For more information, please visit: http://www.sfsymphony.org/Buy-Tickets/2012- 13/itzhak-perlman-in-recital.aspx

The Noise Pop Festival Tuesday, February 21-Sunday, February 26, 2013; various venues and times The Noise Pop Festival is San Francisco's favorite indie music, arts and film festival. Now in its 20th year, Noise Pop has brought early exposure to many emerging artists in the Bay Area and beyond, many of whom have gone on to widespread acclaim. Some notable acts who have played Noise Pop include the White Stripes, Modest Mouse, The Flaming Lips, Death Cab for Cutie, The Shins, Bright Eyes, Best Coast, Jeff Tweedy, The Dodos, Girls and Antony and The Johnsons. The festival has also featured musical legends such as Yoko Ono and The Plastic Ono Band, Bob Mould, Yo La Tengo, X, Frank Black (of the Pixies), Sleater-Kinney and Television. In addition, the festival boasts a film series that explores the intersection of music and art; Pop-n-Shop, a local designer fair; Culture Club, an interactive workshop exploring DIY culture; Art Gallery Shows; Happy Hours and much more. For more information, please visit: http://2012.noisepop.com/

Shen Wei Dance Arts: Undivided Divided Thursday, March 21-Sunday, March 24, 2013; Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Best known for his stunning choreography of the Opening Ceremonies of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Shen Wei was a founding member of the Guangdong Modern Dance Company, China's first contemporary dance company. He has been widely celebrated for his sophisticated choreography, breathtakingly powerful cross-cultural performances and gorgeous visual imagery and was hailed by the The Washington Post as "one of the great artists of our time." The company's newest piece, Undivided Divided, is a unique performance installation, comprised of a grid divided into 16 squares, is inhabited by eight dancers. Audience members are invited to stroll amongst moving "displays" of painted dancers, projected videos and sculptural installations. Set to an original score by Sō Percussion and concrete sound design by Lawson White, the multimedia work envelopes the audience not only through its spatial design but also via multi-track sound creating an exciting new type of immersive interaction between audience and performer. For more information, please visit: http://www.ybca.org/shen-wei-dance-arts

Game Developers Conference 2013 Monday, March 25-Friday March 29, 2013; Moscone Convention Center The Game Developers Conference (GDC) is the world's largest and longest-running professionals- only game industry event. The GDC attracts over 22,500 attendees, and is the primary forum where programmers, artists, producers, game designers, audio professionals, business decision-makers and others involved in the development of interactive games gather to exchange ideas and shape the future of the industry. For more information, please visit: http://www.gdconf.com/

Beijing Guitar Duo Sunday, March 31, 2013, 7:00pm; San Francisco Conservatory of Music Concert Hall Originally stars of China's Central Conservatory of Music, the Beijing Guitar Duo was founded with the encouragement of an SF Performances favorite, guitarist Manuel Barrueco. The Duo made its San Francisco debut in 2009 to great acclaim for its "breathtaking sonic colors." -SF Classical Voice For more information, please visit: http://sfperformances.org/performances/1213/BeijingGuitarDuo.html

District 2

WinterSalt Music Festival Friday, December 28-Saturday, December 29, 2012; Fort Mason WINTERSALT at Fort Mason will embody the culture, music, arts, and attitude that is the City by the Bay, offering everyone a truly unique San Francisco experience. The festival will showcase a variety of up can coming electronic and indie music, and will feature a number of food and drink vendors and other amenities. For more information and tickets, please visit: http://wintersaltsf.com/

Streets of San Francisco New Years' Eve 2013 Monday, December 31, 2012; Fort Mason Festival Pavilion Join EyeHeartSF as we transform the Festival Pavilion into a playground of city sights, lights, and sounds at Streets of San Francisco (SF) New Years Eve (NYE). Streets of SF NYE features a premium hosted bar for all guests, the largest bar staff of any NYE party in the Bay Area, and the best bartender-to-guest ratio anywhere. Featuring state-of-the-art visuals and sound, and music by world renowned DJ talent, this event is quite arguably the #1 NYE experience on the West Coast and easily one of the top parties in the nation. For more information, please visit: http://streetsofsfnye.eventbrite.com/#

Bay Area Brew Festival Saturday, Jan 5, 2013, 2:00p at Fort Mason Center, San Francisco, CA With so many wine tastings and pairings, it's 'bout time for SF to have another beer festival. The 3nd Annual Bay Area Brew Festival follows last year's sold out event and this year's promises to be even bigger and better. The event will feature dozens of international and domestic beers, SF's best food trucks (food sold separately) and will take place at Fort Mason. Admission is $40 for general admission (2pm to 5pm) and $50 for VIP (1pm to 5pm) and includes unlimited beer. For more information, please visit: http://www.bayareabrewfestival.com/

Alcatraz Monthly Swim Saturday, February 16, 2013, 10:00am; Aquatic Park at Hyde and Jefferson These crossings from Alcatraz during the months of November, December and January are recommended for those swimmers who have either taken the Water World Swim Alcatraz Swim Clinic or who feel confident and have had prior experience swimming in cool open water. Our crossings are usually limited to six to twelve (6 to 12) swimmers and are accompanied by three or more of our coaches. This is surely an exciting and thrilling swim. Be sure to meet 45 minutes before jump time. Bring 2 towels, warm clothes for on the boat and afterwards, have your wetsuit on in boat and be ready to jump. Bring your swim gear (cap, earplugs, goggles, etc.) and warm tea or drink in thermos for after. For more information, please visit: http://www.waterworldswim.com/alcatraz.html

Chamber Music at the Legion of Honor Sunday, February 24, 2013, 2:00pm; Florence Gould Theater, Legion of Honor The San Francisco Symphony and the Fine Arts Museums-a partnership now in its eleventh season- are thrilled to once again present the acclaimed Chamber Music Series at the Legion of Honor, featuring Concertmaster Alexander Barantschik playing the 1742 Guarnerius del Gesú violin, formerly owned by Jascha Heifetz. Bask in the bright, brilliant sounds of rich and diverse chamber repertory performed by members of the San Francisco Symphony and guest artists in a breathtaking setting, the Legion of Honor. For more information, please visit: http://www.sfsymphony.org/Buy- Tickets/2012-13/[email protected]

IN THE MEDIA

September 19th, 2012 The San Francisco Chronicle, "SF public power plan given tentative OK" http://www.sfgate.com/default/article/SF-public-power-plan-given-tentative-OK-3875891.php

October 6th, 2012 The San Francisco Chronicle, "It's anybody's guess what will happen at Tuesday's Mirkarimi hearing" http://blog.sfgate.com/cityinsider/2012/10/06/its-anybodys-guess-what-will-happen-at-tuesdays-mirkarimi- hearing/

October 6th, 2012 The San Francisco Chronicle, "Supes mum on sheriff decision" http://www.sfgate.com/default/article/Supes-mum-on-sheriff-decision-3925323.php

October 9th, 2012 The San Francisco Chronicle, "Shame on 4 supervisors for sheriff vote" http://www.sfgate.com/opinion/editorials/article/Shame-on-4-supervisors-over-sheriff-vote-3934204.php

October 10th, 2012 The San Francisco Chronicle, "Ross Mirkarimi to keep job, supes decide" http://www.sfgate.com/default/article/Ross-Mirkarimi-to-keep-job-supes-decide-3934169.php

October 10th, 2012 The San Francisco Chronicle, "Ross Mirkarimi vote in supervisors' words" http://www.sfgate.com/default/article/Ross-Mirkarimi-vote-in-supervisors-words-3934298.php

October 13th, 2012 The San Francisco Chronicle, "Some S.F. gripes are district specific" http://www.sfgate.com/default/article/Some-S-F-gripes-are-district-specific-3946129.php

October 18th, 2012 The San Francisco Chronicle, "CityTarget coming to Western Addition" http://www.sfgate.com/default/article/CityTarget-coming-to-Western-Addition-3957778.php

October 20th, 2012 The San Francisco Chronicle, "Appeal over trees delays playground work" http://www.sfgate.com/default/article/Appeal-over-trees-delays-playground-work-3965944.php

October 20th, 2012 MissionLocal, "Bedbugs Suck" http://missionlocal.org/2012/10/bedbugs-suck/

October 24th, 2012 The San Francisco Chronicle, "Ed Lee, Gavin Newsom talk S.F. Giants" http://www.sfgate.com/default/article/Ed-Lee-Gavin-Newsom-talk-S-F-Giants-3979500.php

October 24th, 2012 The San Francisco Chronicle, "Free Muni for youth plan heads back to City Hall" http://blog.sfgate.com/cityinsider/2012/10/24/free-muni-for-youth-plan-heads-back-to-city-hall/

October 28th, 2012 The San Francisco Chronicle, "Earlier release of ranked-choice tallies" http://www.sfgate.com/default/article/Earlier-release-of-ranked-choice-tallies-3988916.php

October 30th, 2012 The San Francisco Chronicle, "Getting buck naked in front of City Hall" http://www.sfgate.com/default/article/Getting-buck-naked-in-front-of-City-Hall-3994602.php

October 30th, 2012 The San Francisco Chronicle, "Fight over free Muni for youth money heats up" http://blog.sfgate.com/cityinsider/2012/10/30/fight-over-free-muni-for-youth-money-heats-up/

November 11th, 2012 The San Francisco Chronicle, "Human services agency's healthy contracts" http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/Human-services-agency-s-healthy-contracts-4028533.php

November 13th, 2012 SFAppeal, "City Officials Celebrate Conversion of Old Theater to Gym" http://sfappeal.com/news/2012/11/city-officials-celebrate-conversion-of-old-theater-to-gym.php

November 20th, 2012 The San Francisco Examiner, "Free Muni for youth one step closer to reality following supervisors' vote" http://www.sfexaminer.com/local/transportation/2012/11/free-muni-youth-one-step-closer-reality-following- supervisors-vote

November 21st, 2012 The San Francisco Chronicle, "SF barely passes public-nudity ban" http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/S-F-barely-passes-public-nudity-ban-4055606.php

November 21st, 2012 The San Francisco Chronicle, "Free Muni for youth wins supervisors' support" http://blog.sfgate.com/cityinsider/2012/11/21/free-muni-for-youth-wins-supervisors-support/

November 21st, 2012 The San Francisco Chronicle, "Deal keeps Transbay tower plan on track" http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/Deal-keeps-Transbay-tower-plan-on-track-4058417.php

November 22nd, 2012 CBS Local, "SF Supervisors Tackle 'Discriminatory' Tax Code for Same-Sex Spouses" http://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2012/11/22/sf-supervisors-tackle-discriminatory-tax-code-for-same-sex-spouses/

November 22nd, 2012 LA Times, "San Francisco Workers may be Reimbursed on Same-Sex Couple Benefits" http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2012/11/san-francisco-may-reimburse-benefits-same-sex-couples.html

November 24th, 2012 The San Francisco Chronicle, "Supervisors have 'absurd' arguments in the public nudity debate" http://blog.sfgate.com/cityinsider/2012/11/24/supervisors-have-absurd-arguments-in-the-public-nudity-debate/

November 26th, 2012 The San Francisco Chronicle, "LGBT workplace rights scored in 137 cities" http://www.sfgate.com/news/article/LGBT-workplace-rights-scored-in-137-cities-4068640.php

November 29th, 2012 The San Francisco Examiner, "Embracing innovation and our sharing economy" http://www.sfexaminer.com/opinion/op-eds/2012/11/embracing-innovation-and-our-sharing- economy?category=1530

December 4th, 2012 The San Francisco Chronicle, "S.F. OKs $2.2 million for extra classes" http://www.sfgate.com/politics/article/S-F-OKs-2-2-million-for-extra-classes-4091596.php

December 5th, 2012 The San Francisco Examiner, "Effort to change Muni Development fees rejected" http://www.sfexaminer.com/local/transportation/2012/12/effort-change-muni-development-fees-rejected

December 5th, 2012 The San Francisco Examiner, "Proposed rates for CleanPowerSF green energy program rise again" http://www.sfexaminer.com/local/2012/12/proposed-rates-cleanpowersf-green-energy-program-rise-again

December 9th, 2012 The San Francisco Chronicle, "Vote on S.F. Hospitals Likely in 2013 http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/Vote-on-S-F-hospitals-likely-in-2013-4104095.php

December 11, 2012 The San Francisco Chronicle, "S.F. City Fiscal Picture Strangely Cheery" http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/S-F-city-fiscal-picture-strangely-cheery-4110208.php

December 12, 2012 KTVU San Francisco, "Uproar After Cop Post Speeding POV Video on Facebook" http://www.ktvu.com/news/news/crime-law/uproar-after-sf-cop-posts-speeding-pov-video-faceb/nTTmJ/

Op-Eds

November 29th, 2012 The San Francisco Examiner, "Embracing innovation and our sharing economy" http://www.sfexaminer.com/opinion/op-eds/2012/11/embracing-innovation-and-our-sharing- economy?category=1530

Marina Times Articles

October, 2012 Marina Times, "Union Street to keep liquor license controls" http://www.marinatimes.com/2012/10/union-street-to-keep-liquor-license-controls/

October 3rd, 2012 Marina Times, "Proposition B: Support our parks and families" http://www.marinatimes.com/2012/10/proposition-b-support-our-parks-and-families/

October 3rd, 2012 Marina Times, "More than fleets for the week" http://www.marinatimes.com/2012/10/more-than-fleets-for-the-week/

October 26th, 2012 Marina Times, "Grateful and proud to be San Franciscan" http://www.marinatimes.com/2012/10/grateful-and-proud-to-be-san-franciscan/

November 30, 2012 Marina Times, "Fort Mason shooting suspects in custody" http://www.marinatimes.com/2012/11/fort-mason-shooting-suspects-in-custody/

December 1st, 2012 Marina Times, "Embracing innovation and San Francisco's sharing economy" http://www.marinatimes.com/2012/12/embracing-innovation-and-san-franciscos-sharing-economy/

December 1st, 2012 Marina Times, "With Equinox Fitness moving in, is the Marina becoming big box friendly?" http://www.marinatimes.com/2012/12/with-equinox-fitness-moving-in-is-the-marina-becoming-big-box-friendly/

Office of Supervisor Mark Farrell 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, Room 244, San Francisco, CA 94102 Phone: (415) 554-7752 Fax: (415) 554-7843 Legislative Aides: [email protected], [email protected] & [email protected]