Vanishing SFPD Stats Patient Abuse Questions at LHH? Will Durst Lou knows where the bodies are Patrick Monette-Shaw wrestles with Our friend Will Durst is on the mend, buried, but the stats? ...... 2 the remaining questions ...... 4 but may not be back for a while...... 5 Quentin Kopp Westside Fire Readiness Vegeworld DA Boudin, the POA, NRA, and cer- Nancy Wuerfel sees some move- Kathy Howard takes in the 20th Annual tain Supervisors get an earful...... 3 ment, but too little, too late? ...... 5 Vegefest —Yum!...... 10

Northern California Society of Professional Journalists’ 2019 James Madison Freedom of Information Award Volume 32 • Number 10 Celebrating Our 32nd Year www.westsideobserver.com December 2019 / January 2020 Edgehill Mountain: Here We Go Again! by: Former Supervisor Tony Hall nce again, we have an ill- Oadvised, poorly planned, and incredibly myopic proposal to build Monster homes on what is one of the last areas of Supervisor Gordon Mar opens the hearing investigating the Joint Terrorism Task Force open forested space in A Precarious Partnership: San Francisco. Edgehill Mountain is an oasis SFPD and the FBI of natural beauty located almost geographically in the center by Dr. Derek Kerr of San Francisco. It is nestled n its July report, Joint Terrorism Task Force: Balancing Public between Mt. Davidson and For- Neighbors protest five monster homes on rock-slide site Photo: thebaycitybeacon.com Safety with Civil Rights1, the Civil Grand Jury recommended est Hill, and presents stunning Ithat the SFPD reconsider its expired counter-terrorism part- panoramic views from Twin nership with the FBI. Although the Jury did not recommend for or Peaks to the Pacific Ocean. I did not witness any evidence against re-affiliating with the FBI, the Mayor, Police Chief and Police The Edgehill Mountain Open put forth by proponents of the project Commission responded cautiously. Not mentioned was the turd in Space is a protected mountain- the punch bowl – a secret FBI White Paper2 acknowledging grave side created in 1985 by the City that indicated that this proposal was conflicts between SFPD policies and those of the FBI’s Joint Terror- to preserve what is left of our anything more than the result of bad ism Task Force (JTTF). The SFPD received the White Paper in 2017, natural habitat. There is basi- but couldn’t disclose it. Superior Court ruled it was “property of the cally one trail running across planning, very little research, no neighbor- FBI.” (Case CFP-19-516706) The FBI released it to Supervisor Gor- the park from Knockash to hood concern, monetary greed, and worst of all, ignorance don Mar this October. Edgehill Street. Native Monterey of the facts and construction history of the mountain.” Joint Terrorism Task Forces (JTTF) are FBI-led partnerships with pines and cypress trees, spread local police and other law enforcement agencies that address national over a mystifying labyrinth of security threats. After the events of September 11, 2001 the SFPD beautiful Franciscan chert rock, unique spot of the city should setting, now and in the future. joined the regional JTTF in 2002. That arrangement was secretly frame the landscape where red- be preserved for residents who Originally part of Adolph renewed3 in 2007, adding tighter FBI controls and secrecy, without tailed hawks hunt and nest. This enjoy the peace and charm of its Sutro’s San Miguel Ranch, the notifying the Police Commission. When its contract with the FBI Cont. p. 2 expired in February 2017, the SFPD bailed out amidst mounting civil rights concerns and the turmoil of switching its Police Chiefs. Proposed Laguna Honda . . . Supervisors unanimously passed the . . . Housing Ignores Dire Short- transparency and accountability provisions . . . age of Skilled Nursing Beds In effect, the law authorized SFPD brass and by Patrick Monette-Shaw City officials to oversee its FBI-driven Joint hirteen days after San Fran- Terrorism Task Force investigations.” cisco voters passed the $600 Tmillion Affordable Hous- ing Bond on November 5, and also San Francisco Taxpayers Tapped Previously, the SFPD had usu- approved allowing construction of 100% afford- A New Oceanview Library ally assigned 2 full-time investigators to able housing and teacher housing projects on pub- the JTTF under the direction of the local lic land zoned “P, Public” that previously barred Presents New Problems FBI Office, and ultimately the US Attor- residential housing on public parcels, the Mayor’s ney General. However, City taxpayers paid Office of Housing and Community Development by Glenn Rogers their salaries. These officers received Top- released a Request for Proposal (RFP) to build t has been decided that the present Oceanview Secret security clearances and access to housing on Laguna Honda Hospital’s (LHH) cam- Library on Randolph Street is too small and a classified data. Their identities were secret. pus on November 18. Neither the Health Com- Inew 20,000 square foot library should be built They signed non-disclosure agreements that mission nor the Board of Supervisors held public to replace it. Presently, the location the City favors barred information sharing without FBI ap- hearings before the RFP was issued. is at the Brotherhood Way Greenbelt. Originally, proval, and underwent polygraph exams. the Greenbelt got its designation because there was As federal deputies, they could operate any- historically a stream here, with organic soils and an ACLU Lawyer John Crew where in the US. As such, they could ma- ... the City has dumped at least earthquake fault. Today, the caution of building on neuver beyond local civilian oversight and local privacy and civil 1,659 San Franciscans into out-of- a problem site has been dismissed. rights laws. Nominally, they were expected to abide by such laws, county facilities between July 2006 Transportation Problems notably SFPD’s Department General Order 8.10: Guideline for First In addition, the new Oceanview Library will be Amendment Activities.4 and June 2019 ... Despite having been adjacent Orizaba Avenue, an extremely narrow Supervisors Weigh In DGO 8.10 was designed in 1990 to prevent asked repeatedly to sponsor legislation street. To provide a public building here, would police intrusions into religious gatherings, protests, and politi- requiring all facilities report their increase a traffic load to a street already overbur- cal assemblies. In the post-9/11 era, unwarranted JTTF practices dened. The neighbors in front of the new library began impinging on civil rights. Alarming reports and warnings number of out-of-county discharges would likely permanently loose parking in front were issued by the Human Rights Commission,5 San Francisco Bar annually, Yee has failed doing so.” of their homes. Safe to say, the more this library Association,6 ACLU7, and 79 civic groups8 represented by the Asian is successful, the more difficult traffic will be to Law Caucus, Council on American Islamic Relations and the ACLU. overcome. Accordingly, in 2012 the Board of Supervisors unanimously passed Project Proposal The RFP claims the project will Why Build In The Greenbelt? the Safe San Francisco Civil Rights Ordinance9 to govern SFPD par- include everything but the kitchen sink, includ- One of the reasons the site was chosen is that the ticipation in federal counter-terrorism activities. The Ordinance ing an unspecified number of independent senior land is owned by the City, therefore, the purchase enshrined within City law the gist of DGO 8.10’s transparency and housing rental units in studio and one-bedroom of land is not necessary. The land is described accountability provisions. It also mandated Police Commission ap- apartments restricted to those earning 30% to as “free”. However, numerous site problems will proval of agreements between the SFPD and FBI. In effect, the law 80% of Area Median Income ($25,850 to $68,950 need to be addressed to build here. I believe the Cont. p. 6 for a one-person household). Another portion of building of a library here would be the first step Cont. p. 9 Cont. p. 7 Page 2 December-January 2020 The Chronicle’s Vanishing Crime (Stats) Fewer Arrests Don’t Represent Reduced Crime by Lou Barberini, CPA une 1997: An off-duty police officer was riding on a MUNI bus when he saw two juveniles steal a tourist’s purse. The officer exited the bus Jand followed the juveniles until backup from Northern Station arrived to arrest the juveniles for “grand theft.” August 2016: The same off-duty police a thief if the victim must agree to make a officer was bicycling on Phelan Avenue citizen’s arrest first, and the outcome most when he saw a man dart from Ocean likely will be a misdemeanor citation on a Avenue into the bushes of an empty City traffic ticket. College campus. The man’s face nervously Predictability, more traumatized victims scanned right and left, as if he was at cen- are not reporting crimes, resulting in San ter court watching a Ping-Pong match. The Francisco’s larceny crime wave ascending off-duty cop continued biking. The next to national records, while arrests collapsed day the officer learned the man had stolen to historic lows. Declining arrest rates a woman’s purse. are a reflection of San Francisco politics, Edgehill Development (Cont. from p. 1) Kensington Way to this day. Prop 47 implicit demographic Edgehill Mountain land was sold follow- Now, here we are in 2019 with yet Were these exam- arrest quotas, and a ing his death in 1898. The land became another proposal to build on Edgehill ples of how indiffer- disconnected police one of the city’s first subdivisions, known Mountain. This time the plan is for five ence gradually creeps chief. as Claremont Court, and houses were built Monster homes to be built on the steep, into police officers’ In this environment, on the mountain’s western and southern rocky bluff along Kensington Way where it attitudes over time? in March 2019 the San slopes and eventually on the mountaintop. meets Vasquez Ave. on the western side of Francisco Chronicle No, they are examples Prone to Landslide and Rockfall Since the the mountain. of how Proposition 47 penned a “Vanishing Housing Shortage We all recognize changed the defini- Violence” series, stat- that more housing is needed with the tion of what a felony ing specifically, “San current shortage, but such construc- is, and how it prohibits Francisco recorded a tion must always be in the best inter- officers from arrest- particularly dramatic est of the neighbors and residents of ing suspects for mis- reduction in juvenile the community at large, and in com- demeanor offenses. Same victim trauma; crime” and advocated for the closing of pliance with good city planning and different statutory consequences. Juvenile Hall. A few days after publica- comprehensive safety concerns. This Prior to the passage of Prop 47 in tion, the San Francisco Board of Supervi- is not about denying anybody’s prop- November 2014, if a thief stole an iPhone sors voted to study closing Juvenile Hall, erty rights, but such property rights or a purse, it was deemed a felony, regard- and then in June, voted 11-0 to close the less of the value of the item stolen. Prop juvenile facility by 2021.

1950’s, there have been dozens of instances In its Vanishing Violence series, the Chronicle stated: “The of serious landslide activity on and around youth crime decline would be easier to believe, experts said, if they Edgehill Mountain that have threatened understood why it happened,” and went on to speculate that crime the homes, quality of life, and safety of neighbors living on and around the moun- might have declined because of less lead poisoning. Seriously? tain. These instances include: AAA friend of mine told me there are no fish in the ocean be- • 1952: a home at 275 Edgehill Way was cause he didn’t catch any fish yesterday. Hey Chronicle, now evacuated due to a landslide. • 1967: several tons of rock cascaded into there’s a story! the Nazarene Church property. come with obligations to insure that other • 1978: Nazarene Church was forced to people’s rights, safety and peaceful exis- evacuate amid more landslide threats, tence are not threatened. But how accurate was The Chronicle 47 — falsely billed as the “Safe Neigh- and was not able to reopen until 1987, A neighborhood meeting with the series? Factoring in how many San Fran- borhoods and Schools Act” — redefined after selling off most of its property to developer, owner, project consultant and ciscans and tourists have voiced com- “grand theft” as a felony only if the victim’s pay for repairs and engineering efforts a representative from the City planner’s plaints about the pervasive lawlessness property had a minimum value of $950, to mitigate future landslides (including office took place on Wednesday the 13th. and the record level of property crimes ignoring that victims suffer the same retaining walls). The current Supervisor for D-7, Norman and auto break-ins, The Chronicle’s find- anguish, humiliation, and violation of • 1982: neighboring Happy Times Nurs- Yee was also in attendance. ings seem to have diverged from the pub- personal safety as before. ery School, just west of the church, was The purpose of the meeting was to dis- Under the law, the 1997 incident above lic’s perception. cuss the plans for the proposal with the Consider: forced to close after a rockslide damaged was indisputably felony grand theft, while their building. neighborhood. Several hundred people the 2016 incident above — solely because 1) There is a difference between arrest • 1995: a large rockslide forced a delay in attended, as support for the Edgehill of Prop 47 — was only a felony if there statistics and reported crime statis- the construction of several homes that Mountain Open Space area and future was a $950 minimum value in the purse. tics. The Chronicle only tallied juvenile are now on the parcel of the mountain development on the mountain is of pri- Less than $950 in the purse? A police offi- arrests and ignored the total crimes now known as Knockash Hill. mary concern. cer can’t make the arrest; the victim must being committed by juveniles that • 1997: Following slides in 1996, a mas- I did not witness any evidence put forth make a citizen’s arrest. were recorded by the San Francisco sive slide of more than 100 tons of boul- by the proponents of the project that indi- Thus, under the illogic of Prop 47, Police Department (SFPD). ders, mud and debris traversed a 10-foot cated that this proposal was anything more if Thief A and Thief B each steal purses 2) The Chronicle cited that between 2017 retaining wall and slammed into the than the result of bad planning, very little with $500 inside, but if the purse Thief A and 2018, juvenile arrests dropped new homes on the Knockash Hill par- research, no neighborhood concern, mon- snatched also happened to contain a valu- 11% nationwide. In response to my cel, forcing evacuation of 13 homes and etary greed, and worst of all, ignorance of able wedding ring, November public the demolition of a cliff-top house above the facts and construction history of the Thief A would be record requests, Knockash. mountain. booked into county SFPD data shows • 1998: A rock fall overwhelmed a 60-foot Hiking and Walking Trail As a former jail. But if the purse that between 2017 retaining wall and dumped debris on Supervisor for District 7, and one of cre- Thief B snatched and 2018, juvenile the site of three houses under construc- ators of the present area of open space for lacked a valuable crimes increased tion on Kensington Way, necessitating the Edgehill Mountain Hiking and Walk- wedding ring the 12%, confirm- the construction of more retaining walls ing trail, I offered the following facts for Thief would just ing there is a dis- whose foundations are leaking on to consideration: receive a ticket on a tinction between 1. Edgehill Mountain, because of water- traffic violator form. arrests and levels of shed run-off, ground water drainage, Neither thief has x-ray vision and their juvenile crime. top soil erosion, forest canopy and root intents were the same. Steal from a rich 3) The delayed responses to multiple, system destruction, all due to past person, go to jail. Steal from a poorer per- successively reworded public records decades of multi-home construction, son, receive a misdemeanor citation on a requests to pull SFPD’s total num- is no longer a stable mountain! traffic ticket. ber of juvenile crimes in 2017 and 2. History has repeatedly shown that exca- Prop 47 had the effect of suppressing 2018 made it apparent to me that The vation associated with construction on the reporting of grand thefts and lar- Chronicle never ventured down the that mountain has always caused more ceny crimes for three reasons: First, for same road of inquiry. It was easier for landslides, more loose boulders, more the thieves, there was now no immediate The Chronicle to arrive at its erroneous fractured chert rock, and has always threat of a trip to county jail unless they reduced-arrests, therefore reduced- resulted in disastrous consequences for were both caught and the stolen property crime conclusion. both the developers and the neighbors. exceeded $950 in value. Second, when vic- 4) Because what was considered an 3. Millions of dollars have been spent on tims (or tourists) are told that they must arrestable felony offense prior to Prop landslide mitigation measures that make a citizen’s arrest, the victims recog- 47 is no longer a felony, The Chroni- have not worked. Maybe it’s time to nize the futility of taking further action. cle’s yearly trend analysis is effectively consider stricter owner/developer Ms. Tourist do you mind flying back here an apples-to-oranges comparison. liability guidelines when dealing with from Vermont to testify in court? Third, 5) The Chronicle uses different assump- plans associated with Edgehill. there is no benefit for an officer to chase tions depending on which side of Cont. p. 12 Cont. p. 10 Page 3 December-January 2020 Ruminations From a Former Supervisor by Quentin Kopp ormer President Herbert Hoover responded to a 1964 interview: “Honesty is not the exclusive property of any political party.” We Fdon’t elect local officials in California on the basis of a political party, but Mr. Hoover’s answer applies federally with an incumbent presi- dent confronting certain articles of impeachment and a predictable U.S. Senate trial January 2020. (Mr. Hoover’s opinion is undoubtedly irrel- evant in California, which has only one political party for all intents and purposes.) Besides personal pleasure over strong prison sentences emanating from the passage of Proposition F, which exposes Hall of Justice, the Board followed with name, rank, and amounts of contribu- another Stefani resolution declaring the tions to so-called “independent expendi- National Rifle Association a “domestic ture” committees for city offices, the most terrorist organization and urging other arresting election result was the contest cities, states, and the federal government for district attorney. A 39-year-old radi- to do the same.” The resolution also urged Chancellor Mark Rocha (right) at Mission Campus, Feb. 28, 2018, with Trustee Tom Temprano (left to right), Assemblyman David Chiu cal Deputy Public Defender was elected. San Francisco to “assess the financial and and Trustee Brigitte Davila. Photo by Janeth R. Sanchez/The Guardsman His name is Chesa Boudin. His anteced- contractual relationships our vendors ents are intriguing: Both parents were and contractors have with this domestic Salarygate at City College San Francisco (CCSF) active members of the Weather Under- terrorist organization; . . . and take every ground, convicted and imprisoned for reasonable step to limit those entities who By George Wooding felony murder in driving the getaway car do business with (San Francisco) from his is the sad saga of the attempt of CCSF Chancellor Mark Rocha for accomplices who shot dead two police doing business with this domestic terror- to greatly increase Administrative Salaries while eliminating over officers and a security guard while rob- ist organization.” After filing a suit attack- T300 once- offered classes, and over 100 faculty jobs, by reducing bing a Brinks truck of bank ing the resolution, the NRA funds in 1981. He is also decided to save its money by the number of educational counselors, full-time faculty, course listings My concern and library hours the grandson of a deceased dismissing the case. The stated CCSF goal was to decrease a Is public transparency dead at CCSF? New York City lawyer, with Mr. Boudin will San Francisco Supervisors $32 million CCSF deficit to approximately A cloak of secrecy and suspicion is Leonard Boudin, who rep- also be his alacrity manifestly know nothing of $16 million. The most important goal starting to envelop the Rocha administra- resented many, if not most, free speech law reflected in a should be to provide the best education tion. There are too many off-site retreats, of the Communists in met- and consistency in 27-page order by the United experience possible for CCSF students. altered documents, violations of CCSF’s ropolitan New York and pursuing corruption States District Court, South- General Obligation Bond CCSF will be policies, and attorneys speaking on behalf other Eastern areas during criminality in city ern District of California, in presenting an $800-$845 Million General of the administration. my public school years, col- a suit by a gun show opera- Obligation Bond for the March 2020 elec- CCSF policy gives the public at least two lege, law school, Air Force, government, which tor at Del Mar Fairgrounds, tion. Unlike other property bonds, this days to examine documents up for dis- and beginning practice of his elected predeces- the State Agricultural Asso- bond will add $11.00 for every $100,000 cussion. But on Aug. 22, when the board law in California. ciation in San Diego, after in assessed value of property. For example, approved the executive raises that had Our new District Attor- sor (Gascon) utterly Del Mar’s board of directors if your house is worth $1 Million your been added to the thick budget the day ney, who has tried to jury failed to do ...” voted a one-year morato- annual property tax will include a separate before, “it could be argued that the (col- verdict numerous criminal rium at the Fairgrounds line item for $110.00. Do you want Chan- lege) district did not comply” with its pol- cases at the Hall of Justice, in September, 2018. The cellor Rocha handling this bond money? icy, Bruckman told trustee Lee. unlike two of his opponents and establish- moratorium was to study potential “safety After CCSF’s latest salary fiasco, I no lon- Lee, a professional legislator and law- ment favorites, gives expression to pursu- concerns.” The suit was based upon viola- ger trust his oversight. yer, knew better. She understood that the ing “corporate landlords” and prosecuting tion of the First Amendment. The court Immigration and Customs Enforcement enjoined the moratorium, declaring it agents should they “kidnap” San Fran- accorded “preferential treatment to shows ciscans. The Police Officers Association featuring speech on all issues aside from expended about $700,000 in those tricky these gun-related subjects.” The court capital expenditures to defeat Mr. Boudin. noted that attacking the content of a gun A respectful relationship with police offi- show which includes lectures, demon- CCSF Trustees: Alex Randolph, President, Tom Temprano, Vice President, Brigitte Davila, Ivy Lee, John Rizzo, Thea Selby, Shanelle Williams cers is indispensable for public protection. strations, safety training, target shoot- My concern with Mr. Boudin will also ing, gunsmithing, appreciation of guns as Many times I have shot myself in the foot. This is a case ... in be his alacrity and consistency in pursu- technological artifacts and study of his- ing corruption criminality in city gov- torical objects, plus exchange of products which I tried to shoot my foot clean off,” Rocha told CCSF budget ernment, which his elected predecessor related to lawful use of firearms. The Fair- chair Ivy Lee and budget committee member John Rizzo and the (Gascon) utterly failed to do after seeking grounds failed to appeal the injunction, standing-room-only crowd, as he made his case for the raises.” and obtaining from a compliant Board and I predict the court early next year will of Supervisors and Mayor an appropria- grant judgment to the gun show operator. tion of $2,918,078 three years ago for an Continuing City Hall antics, Supervi- CCSF’s Board of Trustees, Alex Ran- California Brown Act superseded CCSFs “Internal Investigation Bureau,” consist- sor Sandra Fewer, practitioner of public dolph, Tom Temprano, Brigitte Davila, policy and refused to vote for the budget ing of six prosecutors, six investigators, language vulgarity on election night at Mr. Ivy Lee, John Rizzo, Thea Selby, Shanelle without a public hearing. The Brown Act and two support staff. (The unopposed Boudin’s headquarters, has introduced Williams and Bryan Daily, fought back is intended to provide public access to City Attorney similarly secured taxpayer an ordinance to establish a San Francisco Rocha’s hidden salary increases. In many meetings of local government agencies. Its money for a “Special Integrity Unit,” “public bank.” Never mind that only one cases the administrative pay increases purpose is described in the Act: “The peo- which has produced no court civil actions public bank (North Dakota) has suc- were over 100% higher than the prior year. ple of this State do not yield their sover- regarding corruption.) The Ethics Com- cessfully existed in over 100 years in the Rocha himself makes over $360,000 a year. eignty to the agencies which serve them.” mission constitutes a similar waste of tax- United States. City government does so Hidden Salary Increase E-mails sunshined by the Chronicle, payer funds emblemized by its inaction well with the Municipal Railway, the Cen- and burying of misconduct complaints tral Subway Project, the reconstruction of The new administrative salary increases “offer a behind-the-scenes look at how City College officials stepped into a pub- from private citizens. I hope for aggressive Van Ness Avenue, and emergency fire pro- had been carefully hidden on page 105 action by Mr. Boudin, who will have the tection supply in local reservoirs, it surely in a 110-page budget document one lic-relations debacle by doubling executive pay after complaining to City Hall about benefit of recommendations and aid from can operate a profitable public bank. No day before the trustees were to vote for retired Assistant Public Defender and wonder 30 people have started a recall, approval. According to the San Francisco their deep financial woes. The e-mails reveal that college leaders tried to hide the Ethics Commission Chair Peter Keane, however futile it likely will be, of Supervi- Chronicle, “CCSF officials appear to have Friends of Ethics leader Larry Bush, sor Fewer, the lady with the potty mouth. violated their own public disclosure policy damage by claiming it never happened — days after their lawyer privately confirmed former Common Cause area president, Enough already. Let’s hope for the by adding executive raises to their budget Charley Marsteller, and others. best in 2020, and a Merry Christmas and just one day before trustees adopted the to them, on Sept. 11, that the new executive pay rates had been legitimately adopted as After adopting a foolish resolution by Happy Hanukah for all. spending plan.” Supervisor Catherine Stefani last Sep- Here is an example of one of Rocha’s part of the newly approved budget.” Retired former Supervisor, State Senator Staff and Faculty React tember instructing us to change our and Judge Quentin Kopp lives in District 7 salary increases: the base salary for vice vocabulary in describing criminals, crimi- chancellors at the low end would more When CCSF staff and faculty found nal proceedings, convictions, and jail and than double, from $124,358, to $250,000. out about the increases weeks later, and The base salary for the same job at the accused the trustees and Rocha, they were high end would rise 23%, from $210,895 enraged. On September 25th, students West Of Twin Peaks Central Council by Mitch Bull to $260,000. Who receives a $125,000 raise and faculty gathered at RAM Plaza where Mitch will return with the Central Council Report when they reconvene in January. in one year? a mock funeral, advertised as “A Celebra- Watch the February issue. College staffers broke no law, CCSF tion of the Life of City College of San Fran- attorney Steve Bruckman told trustee Ivy cisco: Death by a Thousand Cuts”, was held Lee. But he remained mum on whether to point out the failing educational hopes More Patient Abuse Questions . . . . . 4 Money Matters ...... 11 the action “met the spirit” of state and and dreams of students. The protest was local laws meant to give the public enough hosted by City College’s Higher Education Earthquake Ready Westside? . . 5 Real Travel with Sergio . . . . . 11 time to review matters up for a vote. Action Team (HEAT). “The board did NOT approve pay Several community members walked Ranked-Choice Failure . . . 5 Remember When ...... 13 raises,” Trustee John Rizzo said, “secretly around campus handing out flyers with Kocivar on Education ...... 7 Open Late ...... 13 or otherwise, in closed session.” The raises event programs and lyrics to the live were approved in open session, but not music that was played so that attendees Crime Report ...... 8 Around the Town . . . . . 14 discussed. Nor did the public know that could sing along. Protesters held posters the raises were voted on. Cont. p. 6 SFPUC Methodology? . . . . 9 Calendar ...... 15 Page 4 December-January 2020 — Regina Gomez, RN. “deficits” weren’t stated. LHH Leaders Fingered in Patient Abuse Scandal The two leaders were pushed out even Some observers wonder whether the by Patrick Monette-Shaw before CDPH released its 61-page inves- patient abuse went unreported to CDPH tigation July 12 survey report. The report because LHH was then under a two-year ere we are six months after first learning from Mayor London Breed about revealed Hirose and Gomez were inter- period during which it could lose its the outrageous abuse of 23 to 130 patients at Laguna Honda Hospital (LHH) viewed by CDPH investigators three times license completely if it received a second Hdating back to 2016. We’re no closer to getting answers about key questions between May 29 and June 19 in the pres- “Class AA” citation from CDPH. “Class because the scandal remains shrouded in secrecy as an on-going State investigation. ence of a Deputy City Attorney and LHH’s AA” fines are levied if abuse or neglect On October 23, LHH’s leadership was The accompanying chart shows LHH Director of Nursing (DON). A Google were a proximate cause of a patient death. finally fingered as primary contributor to received five major sub-standard care search and public records revealed the LHH had received a “Class AA” citation the patient abuse and failure to report the deficiencies in the California Depart- DON was Madonna Valencia, RN. and a $100,000 fine on December 23, 2016. abuse. ment of Public Health (CDPH) July 12, Hirose, Gomez, and Valencia were also As early as November 2, 2017 — within Fines Imposed On September 3, the fed- 2019 survey, including the worst “L” find- interviewed indi- the first year — eral Centers for Medicare and Medicaid ing, and received five additional lesser vidually between one of the five Services (CMS) imposed a $1 million fine deficiencies during CDPH’s September 3 May 29 and June What’s the Police Department patients who had resurvey. against LHH for the 156 days between 5. But Valencia — specifically its Special Victims been drugged February 6 and July 11, 2019 during City Attempts to Protect Officials Even wasn’t pushed tested positive for which patient’s health and safety were in before Breed’s June press conference, out until October Unit — doing? Why hasn’t the State Methadone he immediate jeopardy. Since 2007, LHH LHH CEO Mivic Hirose was forced to 7. What else sur- Attorney General’s Elder Abuse Unit hadn’t been pre- has been fined at least $1.35 million, but step down, and LHH’s Director of Quality faced to force her scribed. He was has only had to pay $966,295 because it Management was removed. The City tried out three months filed charges against the perpetra- drugged eight after Hirose and tors? And why hasn’t CDPH de- additional times Valencia were nounced the abuse and publicly re- with different ousted? opioids through On October leased its findings?” August 2018. He 23, 2019 CMS died on Septem- rolled out a new ber 2, 2018 while abuse icon on its Nursing Home Compare the two-year rule was still in effect. It’s website to alert the public about nursing probable LHH may receive another “Class homes cited for abuse violations. LHH’s AA” citation for his death. CMS rating was promptly slapped with Pensions, Penalties Pending? During the the red-hand “stop” icon. same GAO hearing, Supervisor Aaron During a Government Audit and Over- Peskin asked whether it is true the terms sight (GAO) hearing on October 23, of separation of the six nursing assistants Supervisor Norman Yee asked whether apparently fired by May 6 include “the fact LHH’s leadership had either ignored, or they can no longer access pensions.” As of didn’t know about, the patient abuse scan- November 22, that question hasn’t been dal. Acting LHH CEO Margaret Rykowski answered, but should the three LHH lead- responded, saying: ers forced out also lose access to their fat “[SFDPH’s] review … did identify defi- City pensions? cits in executive- and management-level Peskin also asked whether the City positions as a primary contributor … that Attorney could sue the perpetrators for allowed cases of abuse … to occur, per- civil monetary penalties to help recover petuate, go unreported, and be improp- the City’s fines. Should the City Attorney erly investigated over extended periods of should also sue the three LHH leaders received some 35% discounts by waiving to block release of the director’s name time. We’ve made initial steps [changing for their failure to report the abuse to the its rights and not contesting the determi- claiming it was a “personnel matter,” but LHH’s] executive leadership, and will con- State? nations and fines. The fines are expected public records and a Google search eas- tinue to make more, as needed.” Which to soar significantly higher. ily revealed the name of the director Cont. p. 12 !"#$%&'( )*+ ,-" &$,. /. ,-" 0'.

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!"# $%"#&'!&( )*"+,) -+"# ./0012& !$## "3 4 5*!, -(%,"+ 6(#,)+7 8*#9+'!): ;. $'#"+ !'<*= .1>? @ A ABC>D &7"# 6"9*#," 7*++(5 E+"&F 2& -%(&*!! Page 5 December - January 2020 Supes: Westside Fire Readiness a “State of Urgency” by Nancy Wuerfel ood news for San Francisco! GThe Board of Supervisors has just unanimously approved on November 19, 2019 a resolution declaring that a “State of Urgency” exists because there is no plan to protect the entire city from fires following a major earthquake. On April 18, 1906 at 5:12 am, one of the most devastating natural disasters in American history left San Fran- The legislation cisco in ruins. The 7.8-magnitude earthquake and the fires that it caused destroyed 80 per cent of the city, killed authored by Supervisor over 3,000 people and left another 250,000 homeless — 62.5 percent of the population at that time Gordon Mar resolved “That the Board of Super- The press release for this report stated “City visors hereby declares a State of Urgency to rap- leaders have known about this deficiency for idly expand the City’s Emergency Firefighting decades, but have yet to develop concrete plans Water System (EFWS) to protect all neighbor- or a timeline to provide a robust emergency fire- hoods in the event of a major earthquake and fighting water supply for all neighborhoods.” fire, given that the vulnera- Now, the Board of Super- Let’s Get Rid of Ranked-Choice Voting bility of the City poses a seri- visors has responded by By John Farrell ous and urgent threat to the City leaders have urging City departments to well-being of San Francisco known about this deficiency develop a comprehensive nother election has passed and it is too bad we had to deal with and the safety of its inhabit- action plan with funding this ranked-choice voting (RCV) scam as votes are split and not ants and environment.” for decades, but have yet to identified for expanding Aeveryone’s vote counts in the end. This is a flawed system which in Supervisor Mar said “The develop concrete plans or a the multi-sourced EFWS, most cases elects a candidate without a majority vote of the total votes cast, current pace is not enough timeline to provide a robust to cover the entire City by and is unconstitutional. and we must expedite the June 30, 2034. The Board The whole facade of RCV was a candidate who is elected without a expansion of this life sav- emergency firefighting water also urges the City to pro- to save the City money by switch- majority vote of the total votes cast, ing infrastructure across the supply for all neighborhoods.” vide them with consolidated ing from a run-off election to RCV, as in this DA case. This is wrong. C it y.” annual reports beginning on since voter turnout for run-off elec- By the way, I went through the His resolution is in June 30, 2020 on the state of tions was typically lower. This is a RCV results since inception and response to the July 17, 2019 Civil Grand Jury the EFWS preparedness. scam. The main purpose of RCV many elected Board of Supervisors report that identified large parts of the City, par- Let us hope that the decades-old deficiency is to manipulate the voting system members would not have won in ticularly in the western and southern districts, will finally be corrected. to confuse voters a run-off elec- and split the vote. tion. No surprise that were not covered by the seismically safe, Nancy Wuerfel is a government fiscal analyst and high-pressure Auxiliary Water Supply System A prime exam- there. served as a member of the Park, Recreation, Open ple of how this It is essential (AWSS), which provides excellent firefighting Space Advisory Committee (PROSAC) for 9 years. protection. RCV system that an elec- failed is this past tion be fair and SAN FRANCISCO’S HIGH PRESSURE AUXILIARY WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM election for Dis- just to keep our trict Attorney democracy alive (DA). First off, and well. Run- congratulations to all the candidates off election results are fair all the for stepping up to make a difference time. RCV results are not, as history in our City, whether you believe in shows. The system is manipulating the candidates’ ideas, or not. and confusing to voters. Per the Department of Elections, We need to return to run-off there was a 41.63% voter turn- elections between the top two can- out. There were 193,168 votes cast didates. This gives the voters an in the DA race as follows: Chesa opportunity to vote for the person Cont. p. 5 Boudin had 68,792 (35.61%), Susy they prefer most, or the lesser of the Loftus had 60,002 (31.06%), Nancy two evils, whichever applies, and Tung had 37,347 (19.33%), and everyone’s vote counts. This RCV Leif Dautch had 27,027 (13.99%). system becomes more confusing as Cont. p. 5 After the rankings were completed, residents in our City turn over. The Chesa Boudin received 86,696 and Department of Elections will always won by 2831 votes over Susy Loftus have to train voters on this RCV who had 83,865 system every votes. Chesa time there is an Boudin won ... there were 22,415 election. You with 44.9% of the exhausted votes, reflecting never had to be total votes cast over one third of the votes trained on a run- (86,696/193,168). off election. Now let’s get to that did not rank either I urge every- the real problem Loftus or Boudin, which one, especially My 2¢ • Will Durst © 2019 of RCV. Of the the quiet major- total 64,374 votes cost Loftus the election.” ity, to wake up, Will Durst Cancelled for Nancy Tung to contact the omedian and Westside Observer columnist Will Durst, suffered a stroke in (37,347) and Leif Dautch (27,027), Mayor’s Office to place an initia- early October while preparing to go onstage for the 60th Anniversary of the there were 22,415 exhausted votes, tive on the next ballot for the voters San Francisco Mime Troupe and has since returned to the ICU to be treated reflecting over one third of the votes to decide whether to continue this C failed RCV scam. for an infection during his recovery that did not rank either Loftus or His wife, Comedian Debi Durst said “He’s in the line-up. Boudin, which cost Loftus the elec- By the way, I get a kick because doing ok, his brain has to re-boot itself and re- We at the Westside Observer and our readers, tion. In other words, these votes RCV was to save taxpayer mon- install more than a few apps.” send our best wishes for a speedy recovery. didn’t count. Not having your vote ies by eliminating run-off elec- count is unconstitutional. tions, and then our City decides “While the process has been difficult,” she said, Durst Presents: The Big Fat Comedy Kiss Off”: her husband is generally in good spirits and doc- If we did not have this RCV to provide public financing for 8 p.m. Dec. 22. HopMonk Tavern, 224 Vintage boondoggle, there is no way Chesa elected positions. Nearly $20 mil- tors are optimistic he will make a full recovery. Way, Novato; 8 p.m. Dec. 27. Firehouse Arts Cen- Durst has been maintaining his usual wise cracks Boudin wins over Susie Loftus in a lion of your tax dollars has been ter, 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton; 8 p.m. Dec. run-off election. As in this case, a spent so far on candidates running from his hospital bed, imploring the nurses to 28. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, bring him a decent cup of coffee. Since the stroke, single progressive candidate won for elected office in our City since Walnut Creek; 7 p.m. Dec. 29. Rhythmix Cultural against three moderate/conserva- inception of public financing. Don’t for the first time in 30 years, the 67 year-old Durst Works, 2513 Blanding Ave., Alameda; 8 p.m. Dec. was forced to cancel upcoming shows. tive candidates by having those can- you think this money could be bet- 30. Coastal Repertory, 1167 Main St., Half Moon didates split the vote. This would ter spent elsewhere? I do. But that’s Debi’s first reaction was to keep the stroke inci- Bay; 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. Dec. 31. Theatre on San dent among family only, to assure a restful recov- not happen in a run-off, as the top a discussion for another time. Let’s Pedro Square, 29 N San Pedro St., San Jose; 7:30 two candidates would face off. first get rid of RCV. ery, especially to social media. p.m. Jan. 1. Throckmorton Theatre, 142 Throck- “I didn’t want a pity party, I didn’t want people The people who came up with I wish you and your family all the morton Ave., Mill Valley; 7 p.m. Jan. 3. Pleasant this flawed RCV system were fully best this holiday season. God bless. to think he’ll never work again,” said Durst, “I Hill Senior Center, 233 Gregory Lane, Pleasant just wanted him to be left alone so he could recu- aware that not all voters will rank John Farrell Broker/Realtor® – Farrell Hill; 8 p.m. Jan. 4. Raven Theater, 115 North St., everyone. Let’s face the fact that vot- perate and get as much rest as possible.” Healdsburg; 7:30 p.m. Jan. 5. Cobb’s Comedy Club, Real Estate, MBA, Former Assistant The annual Big Fat Year End Kiss Off Comedy ers will not typically rank anyone Assessor – Budget & Special Projects, 915 Columbus Ave., S.F. Ticket prices vary by other than their preferred candi- Show tour — a 26 year tradition Debi Durst says venue. For more details, go to willdurst.com Westside resident - farrellreinvest- will go on this year, as usual, but sans Will Durst date, and possibly another candi- [email protected]. date. The end result in most cases is Page 6 December - January 2020 City College (Cont. from p. 3) Community College. SFPD/FBI (Cont. from p. 1) workarounds including, “sanitizing” JTTF reports, or amending DGO 8.10 to with- that said “My tuition is for college not The CCSF teachers’ union, AFT Local authorized SFPD brass and City officials to hold “classified information” from the for admin pockets” and “stop killing our 2121, lobbied furiously against him, but oversee its FBI-driven JTTF investigations Police Commission. college.” the trustees, in closed session, voted to That expectation proved unworkable Secrecy in Violation All this secrecy sur- After protests and rallies, Rocha apolo- offer him the Chancellor position. because the FBI included “threat assess- rounding JTTF investigations nullifies the gized and issued a statement saying, “The “With all respect to you trustees, are ments” in its “classified” investigative Civil Grand Jury’s assurance that it “did fact of the matter is that the administrator you out of your minds? Have we not been activities. FBI “assessments” seek infor- not detect any instance of non-compliance salaries have NOT yet been approved. through enough hell?” Janet Lohr, an art mation about persons who may threaten with a DGO” by SFPD’s JTTF officers. “I take full responsibility for the process instructor, told the trustees, expressing the national security or violate federal laws. This point was highlighted by former FBI and the errors in the process on salaries,” views of most speakers. Unlike formal investigations, no “reason- counter-terrorism expert Mike German at Rocha told an auditorium of faculty, stu- Lone Vote of Opposition able suspicion” of criminality is required. the must-see Government Audit & Over- dents and city residents who had staged Trustee Rafael Mandelman—now the In 2008, revised standards allowed more sight Committee hearing12 on 10/3/19. protests and had angrily current District eight intrusive practices like pretext interviews, Further, an egregious violation13 did occur admonished him and Supervisor, the lone physical surveillance, telephone record in 2014 when an SFPD JTTF agent bad- the trustees before lower With all respect to no vote, said it will be searches and deploying informants, all gered a Google engineer for filing a public salary increases were you trustees, are you a “tough thing for the without evidence of wrongdoing. Anyone 10 records request. Inspector Gavin McEach- proposed. chancellor” to work in could be targeted based on a tip or poli- out of your minds? Have ern reportedly interrogated Sarmad Gilani “It is time for us, espe- an atmosphere of oppo- tics, religion or race, thereby landing on a about his “delusions of being persecuted” cially myself, to be peace- we not been through sition. But he pledged to federal “terror watch list”. Despite the slip- and tried to recruit him as an informant. makers. To come together “do everything I can to pery taxonomy, “assessments” are inves- enough hell?” Janet The Department of Police Accountability as a college,” Rocha said. make him a successful tigations that can circumvent criminal 14 A shot in the Foot Lohr, an art instructor, chancellor.” justice principles and First Amendment determined that the officer had accepted an FBI assignment against SFPD policy “Many times I have told the trustees ...” Regarding CCSF, rights. And they are classified. Trustee Lee stated, “My SFPD and FBI Conflicts As the FBI White due to “inadequate training”. Like all other shot myself in the foot. JTTF assessments, it hadn’t been autho- This is a case ... in which goal is to ensure that this Paper admits, such assessments were “gen- venerable institution remains a resource erally assigned” to SFPD officers working rized by SFPD’s chain of command or I tried to shoot my foot clean off,” Rocha audited by the Police Commission or the told CCSF budget chair Ivy Lee and bud- and a bridge to opportunity for decades to as JTTF agents. Further, these assessments come. “usually involve, on some level, the exercise Department of Police Accountability. get committee member John Rizzo and the JTTF partnerships are precarious standing-room-only crowd, as he made his “The very first step to realize that goal of First Amendment activities.” must be to stabilize the College’s financial because FBI policies protecting privacy and case for the raises. There is never a good This conflicts with SFPD policy because civil rights are weaker than those adopted time to propose a salary increase, Rocha footing so that everyone, from the chan- DGO 8.10 requires officers to submit cellor to the administrators, to the fac- in San Francisco and California. And those said. “However, this is the best time.” memos showing “reasonable suspicion” protections can be slashed, depending on Lee, the budget committee chair, moved ulty to the classified staff and students, of a crime to justify investigations involv- can focus on education rather than the the US Attorney General and President. to recommend that before considering the ing First Amendment activities. And these As local politicians including Mark Leno, salary proposal, they hire an independent constant struggle to make ends meet. Sta- memos must be approved in writing by bilization requires having steady and rig- Scott Weiner, Jeff Sheehy, Tom Ammiano, financial analyst to determine if it is “rea- two superiors plus the Chief of Police. But, David Campos, Rafael Mandelman and sonable and fiscally feasible, and how our orous financial oversight in real time — an per the FBI White Paper, “The FBI will not annual audit is simply not enough because Angela Alioto warned in 2017: “if this salaries compare with other institutions.” allow such disclosure.” (Safe SF Civil Rights) Ordinance is not effec- Trustee Rizzo seconded the motion that only looks backwards. An audit only There’s more. DGO 8.10 states that the tells us what went wrong and suggests how tively enforced…local offices will become On Sept. 26, the trustees replaced the big memos and approvals for investigations entangled in the implementation of Trump’s administrative raises with much smaller to fix it in the future. We need a control- must be reviewed monthly by the Police ler who can identify budgetary red flags policies, which our city’s leadership and ones: 10%, of which the college will pay Commission and audited annually by the residents have unequivocally rejected.” On only 6.74%. The rest will be covered by a before they become costly errors.” Department of Police Accountability. Per Further, “Stabilization also requires the other hand, the Police Officer’s Asso- state-funded cost-of-living increase. They the White Paper, “The FBI will not allow ciation asked15 the Police Commission to also voted to hire a consultant to study implementing transparent budget con- this type of information to be disseminated.” trols at every level of the College — we restore its JTTF partnership, decrying that whether additional raises make sense. Accordingly, none of the 119 assess- it was abandoned “in a political stunt.” Rocha and the next four highest-paid should never be surprised by the budget or ments/investigations conducted by SFPD’s its content — and the entire college com- Currently, JTTF policies are antitheti- executives — including Bruckman — will JTTF agents from 2014 through 2016 cal to transparency and accountability. see no increase unless the consultant rec- munity, especially those in positions of received departmental approvals. None decision-making power should be aware Upholding DGO 8.10 and the Safe San ommends it and the trustees approve it. were forwarded to the Police Commis- Francisco Civil Rights Ordinance keeps Why did City college hire Mark Rocha? of our budget, our actual expenditures vs. sion or the Department of Police Account- budgeted expenditures, our enrollment the SFPD accountable to the community In 2013, after years of fiscal mismanage- ability, records show. That’s because none it serves rather than the FBI. Involvement ment and possible corruption, the State projections, which play such a critical role targeted “solely constitutionally protected in revenue, and the impacts that our bud- in JTTF political surveillance entrains our Accrediting Commission for Community activities” as the SFPD repeatedly told police to view First Amendment activities and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) threatened get will have on the class schedule and the the Police Commission. But, “That’s the physical locations that we are able to offer as potential threats. Worse, more law-abid- to revoke CCSF’s accreditation. FBI standard – not the SFPD standard”, ing San Franciscans view police as poten- A five-year battle over CCSFs’ accredita- courses. This is not rocket science but it declared former ACLU attorney and police does require firm budget discipline.” tial threats because unreasonable JTTF tion status ensued. practices expert John Crew and several activities contravene civil rights. There Finally, in 2015, the ACCJC voted to Finally, “There are so many programs Commissioners at the explosive 2/1/17 at the College that are ready to grow and are other ways the SFPD and FBI can col- establish a new accrediting system for meeting. Plainly, DGO 8.10 requires laborate to address terrorism. Uncoupling CCSF. With full accreditation, CCSF then that provide San Franciscans with oppor- approvals and oversight for investigations tunities for real, solid-paying jobs, but also from the JTTF, as Portland, Oregon has needed a fulltime chancellor. Out of 34 job that “involve” First Amendment activi- done, strengthens public trust in the SFPD. candidates for chancellor, they voted six to for a chance to achieve their educational ties, not just those that “solely” target such dreams. That’s why it’s so important to Note: Source references for this article one for Mark Rocha as fulltime chancellor. activities. The SFPD had been bending, are provided as links in the electronic ver- Disturbingly, Mark Rocha was forced to keep pushing forward past the challenges, if not violating, its own rules by adopting so many of which are a result of the chronic sion at www.westsideobserver.com. leave his last chancellor position at Pasa- FBI investigative and secrecy tenets. Acknowledgement: Mission Local and dena City College after the Faculty Senate underfunding of education. Because the Worse, SFPD’s JTTF activities defied students of City College are worth the The Intercept first reported on the FBI voted 23-0 to express “no confidence” in the oversight imposed by the Safe SF White Paper. his management. Rocha had also received effort and worth our investment.” Civil Rights Ordinance. Because JTTF a “no confidence” vote at Rancho Santiago George Wooding, Neighborhood Emeritus activities are classified, they were withheld Dr. Derek Kerr is a SF investigative reporter from SFPD brass, the Police Commission Contact: [email protected] and the Department of Police Account- Endnotes ability. Those folks lack security clear- 1. civilgrandjury.sfgov.org/2018_2019/JTTF_ ances. Indeed, the Police Chief’s annual Final_Report.pdf JTTF reports11 to the Police Commission 2. www.scribd.com/document/433018968/FBI- merely assert proper conduct, without White-Paper 3. sfbgarchive.48hills.org/sfbgar- evidence. The FBI White Paper addresses Cont. p. 13 this disclosure impasse by proposing

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PO Box 27176, SF 94127 Contributors: Lou Barberini, Brian Browne, Mitch Bull, Julie Cas- Publisher: Mitch Bull son, Will Durst, John Farrell, Jonathan Farrell, Katherine Howard, [email protected] Dr. Derek Kerr, Carol Kocivar, Quentin Kopp, Brandon Miller, Glenn Editor: Doug Comstock Rogers, Patrick Monette-Shaw, Sergio Nibbi, Nancy Wuerfel, George [email protected] Wooding. Ad Sales • Mitch Bull The ideas and opinions expressed in these pages are strictly those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the staff or publisher of this paper. The Westside Observer is a free monthly newspaper serving the entire West of Twin Peaks area of San Francisco. Circulation is 18,000 copies, distributed 10 times a year. 16,000 are distributed -to-door, 2000 are distributed via free distribution racks in the West of Twin Peaks area, as well as libraries and other key drop-off points (see westsideobserver.com/hardcopy.html). Page 7 December-January 2020 Oceanview Library (Cont. from p. 1) Ignoring a Better Site on Broad St. in further development of the Greenbelt Choosing this site in the Greenbelt for Education Carol Kocivar ©2019 for other City needs— e.g., Affordable the library, the City is ignoring a large Housing. Marc Christiansen, Vice Presi- available site at 137 Broad Street. This site Things I Need To Work On For The New Year. dent of METNA, has asked for a statement is 9,350 square feet and includes a shut- from the City, that no further develop- tered building and a large vacant side yard ello, Nice to Meet you. ment would occur on the Greenbelt in the beside it. This site could easily provide H future, if a new library is built here. the necessary space for the new library. The other day I was introduced to will help. (Sort of reassuring that I am not The Greenbelt Construction Difficulties Already two existing barbershops, two someone I had never met before. At least, the only one with this problem.) family grocery stores and two churches I thought I had never met her. So I said Read a Good Book Lately? would benefit from a library here with what I always say,” Hi, nice to meet you.” the increased foot traffic. Ironically, if the She laughed and said we had sat next to Oceanview Library returned to Broad each other at a meeting. Busted again. and Plymouth Street, it would be return- I am terrible at remembering names. ing close to the original location of the Ah…in my semi state of embarrassment, I old library which was at Ana’s Market, a quickly tried to use a mental trick. People nearby grocery store. always say that you can remember better if Advantages of Broad Street Site you put it to music. So now she is “I dream • No traffic gridlock is created with the of ______with the dark brown hair.” I still don’t need to use this mnemonic for • A signal light would need to be installed library here. my husband but if I did it would be “Terry on Sagamore/Orizaba to slow down the • This location is beside a M streetcar stop. • Walking to the library from the M street- Terry bo berry, Fee-fi-mo-merry. Terry!” pace of commuters and to channel vehi- I know I parked the car somewhere cles into Orizaba Avenue at a manage- car stop is on flat ground. able pace. • Demolition to prepare the site for con- I am terrible with cars. I can’t tell one car On My Bookshelf • The curb on the west side of Orizaba struction would be easy. I am a book club drop out. I tried, I Avenue would need to be widened to • Sewer, water, gas and electricity are read- If it is an entirely HUGE really tried. But I flunked Book Club 101. allow easier access. (Eventually, houses ily available. I like the food and the social aspect but will not allow any widening of Orizaba • This site is closer to the Minnie and Lovie parking facility, I take a picture I am totally unable to have a serious dis- Avenue to correct traffic difficulties) Ward Recreation Center. of the car and the number so I cussion analyzing the nuances of a book • A telephone pole on the side of the new • The Sheridan Elementary School is can find it. Yes, I really do. But with others. Could it be I was an English library, would need to be removed. closer to this location. major? Could my failure to buy the book • To build on organic soils with an earth- • A library here would remove the blight of starting next year, I am using in time have anything to do with this. quake fault, concrete piers would need an abandoned building. my phone’s find my car map Hardly likely. to be part of the library’s foundation. • This site would benefit a nascent busi- which magically will help.” But this does not stop me from read- • Approximately 12 trees, with 24” diam- ness district with more foot traffic as the ing new books and even sharing books eters, would need to be removed with original library did at Ana’s Market. with friends. My most recent strategy: I their root system. • No EIR is required because a library was listen carefully to what book friends rec- • Since no building here is present, new previously near here, in the not so dis- ommend and immediately reserve it ON gas, water, sewer and electricity will tant past. THE SPOT using the LIBBY app on my need to be installed. • Most importantly, a library on Broad phone. This clever APP connects to the • A lengthy EIR is required. street preserves the Brotherhood Green- public library. Throughout the year I get • The library would cast shadow on neigh- belt and preserves the original zoning these wonderful notices that the book I boring properties. given the site. reserved is now ready to download—for • A library at the Greenbelt provides no How Lame Are These Excuses? free. economic synergy with other businesses. Numerous poor excuses to not build on One other trick. Look at the window of • Original zoning inhibiting building on Broad St. are offered, and all the justifica- BOOKSHOP West Portal. They always the Greenbelt is being ignored. tions for the less desirable site are made have great recommendations. Then pop Therefore, although the land is “free”, with misstatements and fiction. Photo: driversed.com in and buy one. Nice to support our local site conditions here make this site expen- One misstatement was the site was too bookstore! from the other. sive to build on. Traffic solutions for the small being only 5,000 square feet in total. One More Thing to Work on For the New Year. I have a friend who picks me up regu- library will need This information Don’t forget to say thanks. Sometimes larly to go swimming. Same car. Every to be polled by immediately dis- we are too busy, too impatient. Too Too time. Is it blue? Black? Electric? Thank neighbors and missed this site Too. goodness she has the common sense to may or may not as an alternative. I remember once losing it completely park in front of my house so I have a clue.. be approved. The However, this at an airport after a multi-hour delay. The This car disability gets even worse in new library is 1-1/2 information was first words out of my mouth fell far short large parking lots. I have my tricks. It is blocks away from false. The Senior of “Thanks for trying to sort this out.” not a coincidence that I always FOLLOW the M streetcar, on Architect, Andrew To those folks who serve you at Peets. my friend or my husband back to where a difficult grade Sohn, visited the Thanks! To the instructor at the Y. Thanks. they parked the car. for seniors or the site and confirmed Let’s try to restore more civility to a Goodness, what if I am alone in a disabled to walk the site was 9.375 world torn apart. strange place? If it is an entirely HUGE to. Younger people square feet. Oh….. Thanks for reading this! parking facility, I take a picture of the car that would walk to this site, will need to The next excuse was that the land is and the number so I can find it. Yes, I really Children’s advocate Carol Kocivar lives in walk past the Oceanview Supermarket, zoned residential, not commercial. A do. But starting next year, I am using my the Westside: kocivar@westsideobserver. where questionable people are present sell- stroke of the pen can change this designa- phone’s find my car map which magically com ing their wares. To walk to the new library tion. If zoning is a concern, the fact that at night, through the Greenbelt, could be the Greenbelt has been zoned off limits to like walking through Central Park in New development for over a century, should be York, where assaults regularly occur. an impediment. SFMTA: Engineering the Library’s Success? Next excuse? The site should remain For the library to be located at the zoned residential because the City needs Greenbelt on Orizaba Avenue, a traf- more residential housing. However, fic solution is required by the SFMTA. Oceanview district needs a more robust However, the SFMTA has shown itself business district also. More residential to be clumsy in solving traffic problems. housing could be gained by rebuilding at For example, the 54-bus travels up St. numerous shuttered businesses in the dis- Charles St., which is very narrow, to go to trict, converting them into housing. Daly City BART. Last week, I saw 3 buses Another argument is that there is no trapped there and unable to deliver their parking at 137 Broad Street, but neither passengers because the congestion was site has parking, and, the Greenbelt site has the intrinsic traffic problem of too nar- We don’t just live in the community, we invest in our community. It’s our belief so bad. A simple fix would be to have the We don’t just live in the community, we invest in our community. It’s our belief 54-bus travel to BART by using John Daly row a street. that real estate isn’t just about buildings – it’s about the people inside and the Blvd, but this solution is ignored. SFMTA Recently, objections have been raised that real estate isn’t just about buildings – it’s about the people inside and the lives they build. Vanguard Properties has been gay-owned and operated since has designed numerous failed designs for that the site is a single-story neighborhood the M streetcar along 19th Avenue over the presently and a two story library would lives1985. they We build have. Vanguardsupported many Properties of our communityhas been gay-ownedprograms, that and focus operated on the since years. One solution was to travel under- not be allowed. Is the fact that nearly 1985.LGBT+ We havecommunity. supported many of our community programs, that focus on the ground through the business district along every house on this block is two stories West Portal Avenue. This means commut- irrelevant? LGBT+ community. ers to not see businesses —more pain for The last excuse was that 137 Broad Street this business district. Another SFMTA was next to a previous crime scene where shootings had occurred. However, simply Kevin K. Ho ESQ. | 415.297.7462 plan was to skip the business district at the [email protected] BRE# 01875957 by the addition of a camera, shootings here Lakeside Village. Then, to have an under- 415.297.7462 have stopped. Sociologists believe eyes and JonathanKevin K. McNarry Ho ESQ | .415.215.4393 | ground station at Mercy High School, cre- [email protected]@vanguardsf.com BRE# 01747295 BRE# 01875957 foot traffic discourage crime. With the ating a traffic jam of biblical proportions, KevinandJonathan.com presence of a library here, and a greater Jonathan McNarry | 415.215.4393 as this station was being built. The point [email protected] BRE# 01747295 is, if this new Oceanview Library is depen- police presence this can be mitigated. KevinandJonathan.com dent on a satisfactory solution from the The property on Broad St. would SFMTA, that solution may not happen. Cont. p. 12 vanguardproperties.com

vanguardproperties.com Page 8 December-January 2020 — Taraval Station Community Meeting ­— A woman said she was walking when she 3:28 am | 100 Font Blvd heard noises behind her and looked behind The victims said someone broke into their Tuesday, November 18 • 6 pm – 7 pm at Taraval Police Station • taraval.org to see two suspects walking towards her. garage stole their car. Officers found the The suspects grabbed her purse and pulled car with two suspects inside. After further her to the ground and threatened violence investigation, they were arrested. unless she gave them her cell phone. They Warrant Arrest fled with the phone. 4:13 pm | 700 Taraval St Traffic Violation – No License – Arrested When officers heard a report of suspicious 12:48 am | 19th Ave & Crespi Dr activity — a suspect observed looking When officers LIDAR determined that a through many car and building windows car was speeding at 70 mph in a 35 mph — they found the suspect standing by a zone, they conducted a traffic stop. A check parked car. A check revealed two arrest TARAVAL STATION Crime Report revealed an arrest warrant, expired regis- warrants and he suspect was arrested. tration and no license. He was arrested. Friday | November 1 investigation, the suspect was arrested. Vandalism to Property – Arrested Sunday | November 10 Robbery Brandishing a Weapon 9:15 pm | 1900 Great Hwy 9:30 pm | 00 Vidal Dr 3:36 pm | 1300 46th Ave Stolen Vehicle A man said he was asleep when he heard loud banging outside. He went to investi- The victim, who had been cut with a knife, A store employee said he encountered the 1:43 pm | 3200 20th Ave suspect on a previous occasion when came gate and saw the suspect vandalizing the said he was walking home after watching Notified that a stolen car was nearby, offi- front door. Officers found him in posses- a soccer game when a suspect grabbed his into the store and without buying any- cers conducted a traffic stop. The driver, thing and had to be told to leave. Today, he sion of a crowbar and hammer. A search bag from behind, cutting his chin with a was detained and after further investiga- of the area revealed recent damages to the knife. The suspect fled with the bag. yelled to the clerk to come out and lifted tion, was arrested. up his shirt to reveal a gun, then fled. door. The suspect was arrested. Assault Monday | November 11 Thursday | November 7 Thursday | November 14 3:57 pm | Sloat Blvd & 47th Ave Stolen Vehicle A woman said she was intoxicated and Found Property – Controlled Substance Vandalism to Vehicle – Arrested 7:39 pm | 400 Bright St engaged a ride sharing company to take 9:09 am | 200 Stonecrest Dr 9:43 am | 2500 16th Ave Officers investigating a car blocking a her home, but she fell asleep in the back- An employee of a car share rental com- When a neighbor left his house, he saw the seat when the driver got into the back seat driveway contacted the suspect, who was suspect break the rear window of a nearby pany, said they disabled a car when they inside. Investigation revealed that the car and began touching her inappropriately. discovered it was fraudulently rented out. car with the stick like object he was car- She got out and the suspect drove away. was rented but was not returned when the rying, and continued walking away from The witness found the car and discovered rental period expired. He was arrested. Theft – Burglary Tools – Cited a gun and illegal drugs were left inside. the broken window. When he reported it, Tuesday | November 12 6:41 am | 100 West Portal Ave Brandishing a Weapon officers detained the suspect and he was arrested. Officers, following a tip, found the suspect 7:44 pm | Great Hwy & Noriega St Assault – Arrested Friday | November 15 attempting to break into a parking meter. A woman said a car was speeding and 6:45 pm | Montana St & Capitol Ave The suspect was detained and a search abruptly changing lanes before pulling up A man said he was walking across the Battery located picks used to break into locks and besides her car. She looked over and shook street when a sped up towards him. The 12:20 pm | Ocean Ave & Miramar Ave numerous quarters in the his possession her head at him. He responded by point- car stopped and the suspect confronted He was cited. A woman was talking on her cell phone ing a gun at her and threatening to shoot him. After an argument, both parties when the suspect walked by her and sud- Saturday | November 2 her. She slowed down and the suspect con- separated, but while he continued to walk, denly kicked her for no apparent reason. Counterfeit Money – Cited tinued on ahead of her. the suspect returned from behind began The suspect then walked away. Brandishing a Weapon – Stolen Property punching the his back. Officers found the 7:41 pm | 3200 20th Ave Warrant Arrest 10:12 am | 00 Cambon Dr suspect and he was arrested. The clerk said the suspect paid for mer- Warrant Arrest – Arrested 11:44 am | 19th Ave & Irving St chandise with counterfeit money before The manager for a rental car agency said 9:37 am | Ulloa St & Lenox Way Officers conducted a wellbeing check leaving the store, but was escorted back he was cleaning out a car and had some when they saw the subject lying on the to the store by security and returned the personal items next to him when the sus- When officers saw a man unconscious on a corner near an intersection. A check merchandise. He tried to walk away, but pect walked by and took his property. He public bench, they conducted a well being revealed an arrest warrant, and the subject security, who initially attempted to detain confronted the suspect who responded by check. A computer check on the his name was arrested. revealed a warrant and he was arrested. him stopped when they thought they saw brandishing a butter knife at him. Officers Brandishing a Weapon found him and detained and cited him. a gun. Officers detained him, but a search Wednesday | November 13 10:56 pm | 1800 Ocean Ave found no gun. He was cited. Friday | November 8 Stolen Vehicle – Arrested Cont. p. 13 Warrant Arrest – Theft – Arrested Assault – Arrested 9:24 am | 2400 Noriega St 6:20 pm | 3800 Noriega St When officers recognized a known sub- When officers arrived on scene they deter- ject, who had recently stolen money from mined that a road rage incident began a nearby church, they detained him and when both parties made rude gestures at after investigation, he was arrested. each other. The suspect got out of his car Tuesday | November 5 and confronted the second party, pushed Robbery him, then attempted to hit him with a metal rod. The suspect was arrested 9:21 pm | 200 Jules Ave Robbery with a Gun A woman said she was walking home with 1:51 pm | 1900 Ocean Ave her earphones when she felt tugging on her backpack. When she turned around A clerk said a group came in and pointed Production Specifications: she saw he had a gun. He took the back- a gun at him, demanding money. The sus- Publication: Westside Observer pack and fled. pects then ransacked the store and stole Media Unit: 5” x 4” Horizontal Robbery several items of jewelry before fleeing. Bleed Area: None Robbery with a Gun – Assault Printing: Full Color 7:57 am | Stratford Dr & Holloway Ave 5:35 pm | Winston Dr & Lake Merced Blvd A woman said she was looking at her cell phone while walking, when a suspect A man stopped at a corner to eat his food reached over and snatched it, then ran into after leaving a mall when two suspects a waiting vehicle and fled. approached him with a gun and demanded his property. A witness approached the Wednesday | November 6 suspect and confronted him and the sus- Assault – Arrested pect fired the gun near the witness, caus- 8:30 am | 700 Taraval St ing burn marks on his biceps then fled. Robbery with a Gun A woman was waiting for the bus when EST: 1990 the suspect walked up to her and hit her 11:04 am | 20th Ave & Taraval face. As officers interviewed her, another A man said he went to a bank to withdraw woman said she had also been slapped in money and when he returned to his car the face for no reason by the suspect. The the suspect approached him with a gun suspect was located and arrested. demanding his money. He complied and Specialists in Residential Warrant Arrest – Arrested the suspect immediately fled. 3:25 pm | Sloat Bvd & Great Hwy Saturday | November 9 Urban Landscaping When patrol officers saw the suspect lit- Warrant Arrest – Arrested tering on the streets, he was detained and Janet Moyer Landscaping specializes in the creation of custom residential 11:41 am | Great Hwy & 48th Ave a computer check revealed an arrest war- landscapes that address the unique challenges posed by San Francisco’s rant. He was arrested. Responding to an incident of possible climate, terrain and architectural constraints. theft of at a construction site officers saw Stolen Vehicle – Arrested Irrigation Association Certification Award winning design a suspect entering a closed site. The sus- Certified Irrigaton Contractor, Certified “Outstanding Achievement Award” 9:21 am | 500 Lakeview Ave pect said he climbed over the barrier to get Irrigation Designer, Certified Landscape California Landscape Contractors Irrigation Auditor Association, 2007 - 2009, 2012 & 2013 Officers found the reported stolen car and some cigarettes. A check revealed a war- detained the suspect found asleep inside. rant for his arrest. He was arrested. 415 - 821 - 3760 . 1031 Valencia St., San Francisco . jmoyerlandscaping.com An investigation revealed involvement in Robbery Landscape Contractor License 853919 . Pest Control License 36389 disposal of stolen vehicles. After further 7:35 pm | 32nd Ave & Taraval St

JML_Specialists_p2_WestsideObserver.indd 1 6/15/2016 1:24:57 PM

JML Contact . . . . . Michael Padgett Client Name . . . . . Janet Moyer Landscaping Print - Westside Observer EST: 1990 Contact Phone . . . . 415-821-3760 Job Title ...... Contact Email . . . . . mpadgett@jmoyerlandscaping .com Description ...... 5” x 4” Horz - Specialists Ad Page 9 December-January 2020 Missing In Action by Brian Browne n November 15, 2019 I requested that the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) provide information as to 1) why Othey used an 8.5-year designer drought in their long-term plan- ning, and why they 2) assumed that the system was selling 265 million gal- lons of water a day (MGD). The 265 MGD is the linchpin for misallocating Hetch Hetchy water between the peninsula and San Francisco—done at San Francisco’s expense. It has been seen as a spurious reason why the Bay Area Water Supply and Conservation Agency (BAWSCA) and the SFPUC seek higher Tuolumne river uptakes than may be required through prudent and logical planning. The SFPUC response to my water sales remain at 265 MGD. request under the SF Sunshine Ordi- Best estimates are that today’s water nance by email on November 19, sales by the Hetch Hetchy system 2019: are around 200 MGD. Why did he “Thank you for your request for regurgitate 265 MGD as current? public information. We do not have a Where does the 265 really come document responsive to your request.” from? Laguna Honda Housing (Cont. from p. 1) 2030, in part because 192,000 San Fran- (SFPUC Public Records) The 265 MGD does not come the project calls for an unspecified number ciscans aged 65 and older will comprise This is a sobering and egregious from Hetch Hetchy system-flow his- of assisted living units, and an unspecified 20% of San Francisco’s population by admission by the SFPUC. I believe tory. It was developed by BAWSCA number of Residential Care Facility for the 2030. two things must happen imme- in submitting their individual mem- Elderly (RCFE) units, which are similar Second, the City has dumped at least diately: 1) the 2009 Water Supply ber allocation requests (dictates). but a different kind of facility, collectively 1,659 San Franciscans into out-of-county referred to as the “Assisted Living” compo- facilities between July 2006 and June 2019 nent of the project. from our two public hospitals and two of The Illusive Assisted Living Component the six private-sector hospitals, in large part because of the severe shortage of in- The assisted living component hinges county SNF beds. Despite having been on a future “financial feasibility study” asked repeatedly to sponsor legislation MOHCD hasn’t conducted. Worrisome, requiring all facilities report their number MOHCD, at its sole discretion, may elect of out-of-county discharges annually, Yee to make the Assisted Living component

The report also documented San Francisco faces a 1,745- bed Skilled Nursing Facility gap between supply and demand within 14 years, by 2030, in part because 192,000 San Francis- cans aged 65 and older will comprise 20% of San Francisco’s population by 2030.” The figure above shows historical water demands and the relationship between demand and price. Econometric analysis of water demand shows that rate hikes do a separate project under a separate RFP has failed doing so. drive conservation. There are other causes. to ensure creating a financially viable sub-project. It may vanish if not viable Third, the proposed site is extremely Agreement must be renegotiated, BAWSCA took a high-sales year financially. far away from the Forest Hill MUNI sta- water allocations reset to fairly (2007-08) as their test or base year, The project also calls for an early child- tion, making use of public transportation reflect the history of Hetch Hetchy added to this statistical outlier addi- hood education center, and an Adult extremely difficult, given that the slope of sales to the SFPUC and BAWSCA, tional incremental demand increases Day Health Center (ADHC) for LHH’s campus hills are prohibi- and 2) The design drought estima- by individual BAWSCA agencies and an unspecified number of tively steep for elderly people tions must be redone with detailed presented it to the secret negotiators. Cont. p. 9 adults needing day care. to walk up, or down. and transparent model specifica- No worries mates -ask and you shall Fourth, there are virtu- tions proving its justification. receive. Thus, a somewhat camou- Where’s the Site? MOHCD claims the project will be ally zero nearby neigh- The 2009 Water Sales Agreement flaged and manipulated statistical borhood amenities — like gave BAWSCA 184 MGD in perpe- outlier was used to set system sales built on an “unbuilt lot” adjacent to the two new grocery stores, restau- tuity and SF 81 MGD, comprised of at 265 MGD. All this done with less rants, and pharmacies — possibly 4 MGD of recycled brine. than grade school algebraic manipu- patient towers of the LHH replacement hospital. within walking distance of City stakeholders points out (WSO) lations. None of it made sense from a the proposed site. that this source is statistically less rigorous and detailed analysis. The San Francisco Exam- Fifth, prioritizing space for safe and definitely more expensive These two non-documented iner reported November 21 city a childhood pre-school over space than traditional city-gate Hetch assumptions (265 MGD and officials “envision” at least 200 units for SNF or Residential Care Facilities for Hetchy water. The average water 8.5-designer drought) have broader will be built. It’s unclear whether the 200 the Elderly (RCFE) beds, or senior hous- use by BAWSCA between the two regional and state consequences. In units are for the entire project, or just for ing, is simply obscene. Seniors do not agreements (1984 to 2009) was 162.4 2018 the State Water Board adopted the independent rental housing compo- find “purpose,” as Yee alleges, babysitting MGD and San Francisco used on mandatory 40 percent flows on the nent of the project. three- and four-year-old barely-verbal average 88.3 MGD. Tuolumne River. The Tuolumne Approval Uncertain MOHCD is propos- preschoolers. The 2009 WSA allocations should River Trust, prime advocates for ing to transfer the undeveloped lot site, have been based on the Hetch Hetchy husbanding the Tuolumne River, subject to final approval by the Board of Sixth, LHH eliminated its long-existing statistically significant system aver- have expressed concern with Gov- Supervisors and the Health Commission, Adult Day Health Care (ADHC) from the age of 251.7 MGD, ernor Newsom’s to a qualified developer through a long- rebuild project, which should have been not the improvised 1) stalling of these term ground lease. A prominent West Side included in the replacement hospital. 265 MGD. There is the 2009 Water mandatory flows; leader who has attended multiple pre- Finally, the proposed site should be a 50/50 chance that 2) failing to reap- planning sessions with Supervisor Nor- reserved for additional SNF beds, to capi- water demand will Supply Agreement point “environ- man Yee and his staff believes the project talize on economies of scale and ready be equal or greater must be renegotiated, mental champion will be awarded two-thirds ($100 million) access to LHH’s existing medical services than 251.7 MGD. Felicia Marcus” as of the $150 million portion of the Afford- like the physical therapy and occupational Chance water water allocations reset to chairwoman of the able Housing Bond earmarked for senior therapy gyms, therapeutic swimming supplies equal or fairly reflect the history State Resources housing. pool, nutrition services that provide meals in excess of 265 of Hetch Hetchy sales Control Board; and This suggests the earmarked senior to patients, and the hospital’s cafeteria, MGD are expected 3) vetoing S81 that housing funds may largely benefit a single among others. approximately 1 would have pro- Supervisorial District, Supervisor Yee’s. Yee’s Problem Yee may want a legacy of in 4, not the 1 in 2 tected California’s Major problems with the proposal. building more housing for the elderly, but expected from using the statistical water from federal tampering. First, the “undeveloped site” is a north- he’ll forfeit a legacy of addressing the dire average from normally historical The illogically derived 265 MGD east spot on the Laguna Honda Hospital shortage of SNF beds. sales data. Bottom line, the then-GM and most probably over-estimated (LHH) campus that went undeveloped Yes, there’s dire need for more senior and Mayor must be held accountable 8.5- year designed drought must be when 420 of the Skilled Nursing Facil- housing and RCFE facilities. But failing to for this mistake. As a member of the redone. Redoing these two attributes ity (SNF) beds were eliminated from the address the also-dire shortage of medical- RBOC I asked to attend these nego- should lead to renegotiating the 2009 planned hospital rebuild in 2010 after cost based SNF beds may kill us all, or exile us tiations. This request was wrongly Water Sales Agreement. The portfo- overruns soared to nearly $200 million. out of county. rejected. lio of scarce water resources must In February 2016 the Health Commis- It’s time to stop pitting the need for addi- The 265 MGD smoke cloud is dif- not be overstated nor understated by sion documented San Francisco had lost tional SNF beds against the need for senior ficult to dismiss. Lingers like a bad any stakeholder and/or planners. 1,163 hospital-based and freestanding housing and RCFE beds. We desperately and unwanted smell. On October The buck stopped with Mayor SNF beds between 2001 and 2015, a 52.3% need more SNF beds on that “vacant” spot 22, 2019 Mr. Steve Ritchie, Assistant Newsom in 2009 when he failed to decline in SNF beds. of land. General Manager, SFPUC Water- produce a fair and equitable Water The report also documented San Fran- Monette-Shaw operates stopLHHdownsize. Enterprise, at a Commission meet- Sales Agreement. He now seems cisco faces a 1,745-bed SNF gap between com. [email protected]. ing stated that SFPUC-Hetch Hetchy Cont. p. 13 supply and demand within 14 years, by Page 10 December-January 2020

how you can persuade Safeway/Albert- low-income communities; they felt that it sons to not restrict grocery stores in low- was necessary to serve meat and that eat- income communities. ing meat somehow meant that people had Chilis on Wheels: Not just another ‘arrived’ into the middle class. food truck In contrast to that, Chilis works all The Greatness of Humanity Just around the corner from Orne- over the US to make veganism accessible ahatma Gandhi is quoted as saying, “The greatness of humanity is not in being las sat Tiffany Walker-Roper with Chilis to underserved communities. Their goal human, but in being humane.” Every year the San Francisco Vegetarian Soci- on Wheels. Walker-Roper explained of “treating all living beings with kind- Mety holds their “World Veg Fest” in Golden Gate Park’s County Fair Build- that the group started just like its name, ness, empathy, and respect . . . “ extends ing (Hall of Flowers to all you old-timers.) The event has evolved over the last 20 years serving vegan chili to homeless people to all species - from the human homeless from vegetarian (dairy, eggs OK) to animals. According to Walker- to vegan (no animal products.) The Roper, “Instead of focusing only on SFVS focuses on four main subject animal rights activism, we are spread- areas - the health aspects of a vegetar- ing the message of compassion to our ian diet, the humane implications, the unhoused neighbors by feeding them benefits to under-served communi- delicious home-cooked vegan food.” ties, and, of course, the benefit to the As part of their work, Chilis also pro- environment of cutting down on the vides support networks and help to production and consumption of ani- empower local communities. mal products. The newly formed Bay Area Chap- This year the talks and tables ter2 is now into its second year here ranged from ‘Building Bridges and, yes, they can use volunteers! Between Vegetarians and Non-vege- VAPA: Vegan outreach to vets and tarians’ to ‘Vegan dogs’. I cruised the humane training for vet students tables and talks to find out what is What about Fido and Fluffy? Is new and different in the efforts to cre- anyone speaking up for them? As ate a healthier, more sustainable, and a matter of fact, yes. Dr. Armaiti humane society. Here are some of the May is an integrative house call vet- folks whom I met and how they are erinarian and vegan advocate in Los trying to change the world. Angeles. Dr. May founded the Vet- Food Empowerment Project: erinary Association for the Protec- food production, supermarkets, tion of Animals. According to May, and local communities their goal is “to educate the veterinary profession about the benefits of veg- anism for people and to encourage veterinary schools to adopt humane surgical teaching methods in their curriculum.” This would include allowing high school students to use alternatives to dissection, ending the requirement for terminal surgeries in veterinary school education, using mannequins and surgical models as lauren Ornelas is the founder and well as interactive multimedia soft- director of the Food Empowerment ware, doing beneficial work with Project (F.E.P.), a “vegan food justice actual animal patients, and collecting nonprofit seeking to create a more deceased pets for students to practice just world by helping consumers their training on, instead of raising recognize the power of their food and killing animals for that purpose. choices.” Among the many projects You can start with the 540 page online she is embarked on are promoting resource3: “From Guinea Pig to Com- ethical veganism, helping farm work- puter Mouse,” or contact Dr. May at ers have better working conditions, that site. advocating for chocolate that comes But, wait, there’s more.... from farms that do not use exploit- Other talks and tables included ative child labor, and encouraging such intriguing topics as Green Mon- access to healthy foods in low-income days (FFAC, Factory Farming Aware- communities. ness Coalition, www.ffacoalition. Our discussion of food access led to org) and combating massive agricul- an enlightening conversation about ture tax subsidies to the meat and the practices of certain supermarket dairy industries (the Vegan Justice chains. According to Ornelas, some League4). And, of course, lots of great chains put restrictions on their deed vegan food. when they leave an area and sell or You can always count on the festival lease the land. The restrictions can for a new and humane perspective on mean that no other property owner our changing world. To learn more, can open another supermarket on go to their website.5 that property for a specific numbers Katherine Howard is a local open space of years — sometimes 15 or even and environmental advocate. 20 years. Although this might seem Endnotes a smart marketing practice if the 1. foodispower.org/shame-on-safeway-afj market is moving a few blocks away, 2. www.chilisonwheels.org/chapters/bay- unfortunately the limitations include area/ sites that are far away from the new 3. vapavets.org/tax_resources/document/ location for the store. In urban areas land few options for travelling far from home to in Brooklyn, NY. It has since grown to 4. www.veganjusticeleague.org is hard to come by, and large locations for buy their groceries. include vegan food demonstrations, shar- 5. www.sfvs.org supermarkets are even harder to find. This One company that follows this practice, ing of meals, and mentoring. This is in practice is especially impactful for low- according to Ornelas, is Safeway/Albert- stark contrast to a discussion I had years income communities, where people have sons.1 Learn more about this practice and ago with someone teaching nutrition to

Vanishing Crime (Cont. from p. 2) The Chronicle just used recent year-to- On a different project, Chronicle purport preposterous conclusions. a cause they are advocating. When year comparisons, ignoring that pre- (10/24/19) writers published the results In its Vanishing Violence series, The promoting zero San Francisco traffic cipitous fall in traffic fatalities since of their test of the fastest mode of trans- Chronicle stated: “The youth crime decline deaths (Vision Zero), The Chronicle has the ‘70s. Yet, for portation between would be easier to believe, experts said, if disparaged SFPD for writing too few its Vanishing Powell and Market they understood why it happened,” and traffic citations, which means the writ- Violence series, Steal from a rich person, go Streets and the War- went on to speculate that crime might ers assumed that SFPD does not catch The Chronicle to jail. Steal from a poorer person, rior’s new arena. have declined because of less lead poison- all traffic violators. However, when it contrasted cur- Defying physics, ing. Seriously? came to advocating closing Juvenile rent arrests to receive a misdemeanor citation a Chronicle writer A friend of mine told me there are no Hall, the assumptions were changed to the ‘80s, ignor- on a traffic ticket.” biking at an absurd fish in the ocean because he didn’t catch conclude that SFPD catches all juvenile ing the Depart- 3.7 mph, arrived any fish yesterday. Hey Chronicle, now criminals and no juvenile crimes exist ment of Justice four minutes after there’s a story! beyond the juveniles arrested. recent survey a Chronicle writer Lou Barberini spent 21 years with SFPD. He 6) The Chronicle also used different scales that reported between 2014 and 2018 who had walked. Another example of fin- can be reached at [email protected] depending on what they were advocat- juvenile victims of violent crimes had ger-on-the-scale agenda journalism — like ing. For traffic deaths and Vision Zero, increased 20%. using arrests instead of reported crimes to Page 11 December-January 2020 Money Matters By Brandon Miller Real Travel By Sergio Nibbi Start Your Financial Plan with The Sound of Music 20/20 ecember and the end of the year may have you thinking about fter leaving Costco’s checkout area, I never fail to take a quick getting your finances in order. My thoughts, however, drift to… glance at the eye chart in front of the Optometrist’s office to the annual airing of The Sound of Music. I can’t help it; I love D make sure I can still pass the next driving test. So far so good as that movie. I still hold my breath when the von Trapps are hiding in the convent cem- A far as looking forward but what about looking back? Is there a special set of glasses to etery. And I still feel a pang of betrayal when Rolf literally blows the whistle on them. handle that? 2019 is teetering towards the history books but what great adventures have How could someone so handsome be so cruel? we lived in the last 12 months that are worth reviewing? We recently returned from a Before I go too far down lederho- calculators that let you easily perform very enjoyable cruise to Mexico and a few months before that we visited our relatives sen lane, let’s get back to putting your what-if situations. in Chicago. All very pleasant adventures but what about all the political madness that finances in order. Financial planning can • Robo-advisors—These focus on the we’re facing every day? Our State almost became a roasted marshmallow with all the be somewhat intimidating. Especially if numbers, not your life goals, but they wildfires and may soon be known as the “State of S’mores”. your wealth doesn’t justify a full-service can work fine for basic investment The New Year started out rather inno- days. The happiest of all events were financial advisor. Luckily, there are other plans. cently with good cheers and high hopes. A Father’s Day, Mother’s Day, Christmas and options. Lots of companies are democra- • Hybrid solutions—Even established few birthday parties, some joyful anniver- certainly, the ugliest day of all was April tizing financial planning and how advice organizations are embracing some saries, new children welcomed into lov- 15, the day that income taxes were due. is delivered. benefits of automated planning, and ing arms and sadly a few departed souls. Being the eternal optimist, I always see And every one of these options has the offer a robo-advice solution with the Not all that unusual starting with a few the bright side, the glass is always, half full. same starting point. So in the words of option for human oversight and input. business gatherings, fund raising events, Three of our grandchildren are finishing Julie Andrews as she’s teaching the Cap- • Advice by the hour—If you just want ribbon cuttings, and an occasional doc- college; the other four are well on their tain’s children to sing, “Let’s start at the a one-time or sometimes relationship tor’s appointment. The Napa Valley had way to successful careers. very beginning. A very good place to start.” with a human advisor, paying only another successful harvest and the world- Looking back, it was not so painful but Cash Flow Is Where It All Begins when you want advice may be a good famous vineyards were spared complete now it’s time to put on those forward- option. If you don’t know where you are, how annihilation while Pebble Beach showed looking spectacles once again. Here’s to • Full-service advisors—Yes, you’ll pay can you move forward? Start by figuring its true elegance while hosting the Con- everyone’s good health, happiness and to a more. But you’ll also get help under- out the money that moves through your cours d’ Elegance. peaceful world so let’s raise our glasses to a standing the nuances of your goals, cre- hands each month. How much is com- On Ground Hog’s Day, we looked for brand new year, 2020 here we come. ating a plan customized to those goals, ing in, how much is going out and how that shadow hoping for warmer, clearer much—if any—do you have left over? adapting to life’s changes, and keeping Sergio gets around—the world! Cash flow is so basic that many people you disciplined and accountable. overlook it. But being in the dark means Implement Your Plan and Stay on Track you have no idea how much you have to Once you have your financial roadmap, ServingServi nFoodg Foo das A sGood Good asAs OurOur P Pricesrices Are are Lo wLow Start by figuring out the money that moves through your hands each month. How much is coming in, how much is going out and how much—if any—do you have left over?” Where Friends Meet invest or how deep a hole you’re digging. don’t neglect to actually follow it! Invest If you’re racking up debt faster than the amount you planned when and where savings, you’ll obviously need to make you planned. Make it automatic so you changes in your spending habits, get a sec- don’t have to remember each month. ond or better-paying job, or find a sugar Two incredibly easy ways to start invest- daddy or mama. That also applies if you’re ing are: Where Friends Meet saving, but at a rate that will require three • Acorns—rounds up your transac- lifetimes before you have enough. tions to an even amount, harvests that There are lots of online tools that can change and invests it for you. help you figure out your cash flow and take • Stash—offers fractional shares so you control of your budget. Perhaps start your can invest as little as $5 at a time in quest at your current bank, where they stocks, ETFs and bonds. may have online cash-flow tools. A bud- Now that you know some new options, I geting tool I like is Mvelopes, an updated hope you don’t let another year end with- strategy from our great-grandparents, out getting your financial act together. Just that uses digital envelopes and automatic follow the advice of the future Mrs. Von transaction tracking to help you plan for Trapp (sorry, I should have given you a and see where your money goes. spoiler alert). Start at the very beginning. Ready to invest? Move to Step 2. A very good place to start. Create a Plan with Automated and/or The opinions expressed in this article are for Human Help general informational purposes only and As I mentioned, this is a new era of are not intended to provide specific advice democracy in financial planning. You can or recommendations for any individual be as hands on—or off—as you want or or on any specific security. Brio Financial your financial situation dictates. Group is a registered investment adviser. Your options now include: Advisory services are only offered to clients • Online tools and resources—Educat- or prospective clients. No advice may be ing yourself about financial strategies rendered by Brio Financial Group unless a is easier than every with the Internet client service agreement is in place. at your fingertips. I particularly like Dinkytown.net, which has a gazillion

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Looking for a change? Stylists Wanted Attractive chair rental rates / commissions for new stylists Page 12 December - January 2020 Oceanview Library (Cont. from p. 7) they would increase the price of the prop- probably cost less than the cost of the erty, making this solution too expensive. Do you have a pinched nerve? improvements to the site on the Greenbelt, Well, the City has had no hesitation in pur- since it would include earthquake proof- chasing property in the Fillmore district, We can help. ing, MTA changes on Sagamore, demo- for half the true value of the real estate, Dear friend, million hospitalizations due to medica- lition of 24 trees and their root system, a during the restoration of the Fillmore. In It’s hard to believe, I know, but it’s true. tion. Last year the WHO reported 350,000 telephone pole replacement, a lengthy EIR the negotiations of real estate, the City can Last year more Americans were killed by deaths due to medication people took... process, as well as running sewer, gas, elec- be very forceful, which could also include prescription drugs than and 160,000 were when the drugs were tric and water lines to the new library. All obtaining property by imminent domain. by guns, AIDS, suicides prescribed correctly. of these improvements are expensive and CALL TO ACTION and terrorists combined More people died last not necessary on the Broad St. library site. The City continues to be in favor the site ... But we’ll get to that in year from medication Another excuse is that the Broad St. at Brotherhood Way Greenbelt. Oceanview a minute. than at Pearl Harbor and location is not at the corner of the block. residents and all San Franciscans need to Let me start by Vietnam. Amazing huh? “All libraries are at the corner of the block,” contact and voice your disapproval: explaining the photo If drugs make people we were told. However, the original library [email protected] in this letter. You know well, then those who take at Ana’s Market was not at the corner of [email protected] when I meet people in the most should be the the block. In this part of the OMI district, Also. please ask [email protected] town they usually say, healthiest, but this sim- superblocks are very common, which at the Library Commission when the next “Oh yeah, I know you, ply isn’t the case. reduces the opportunity to have inter- outreach meetings will occur so you can be you are Doctor Mea- Many people are sections, as streets are as long six regular present and voice your opinion in person. kim. You have been on beginning to understand blocks. In a neighborhood with so few the corner of Beach and that health comes from intersections, having a library at the cor- Glenn Rogers,RLA is a landscape architect Jones for years”…(and within. This is why chi- ner is desired but difficult to provide. One living on the westside. See his website at we just moved to our ropractic helps so many neighbor explained, if 137 Broad was dis- alderlandscarearchitecture.com new office on Clement people. You see, your covered to be the site of the new library, Street). Well, that’s me. I’m also the woman body can heal itself. Your body doesn’t hugging her niece at the Jersey Shore in the need any help; it just can’t have any interfer- picture. ence. With chiropractic, we don’t add any- Edgehill (Cont. from p. 2) Seventeen years ago something hap- thing to the body or take anything from it. something out. I was able to identify a par- We find interference in the nervous system 4. Edgehill Mountain is a unique urban cel of property that was owned by the City pened that changed my life forever. I was a young woman living in Philadelphia when and remove it, thus enhancing the healing wilderness specific only to San Fran- at the corner of Gough and Grove Streets capacities of the body. cisco. We have been foolishly chipping that was newly vacant due to the demoli- it happened. I was driving with a friend when she missed a stop sign and rammed We get tremendous results ... it really is away at it for years. Once it’s gone, it tion of the central freeway. As the City was as simple as that. will be lost forever. desirous for new housing then, as now, I into the side of another car. We were all shaken up. The police were called and we For the past eight years, people from San A Conflicted Supervisor Yee After listening was able to eventually arrange for the swap Francisco and the surrounding area have of that land to the Spiers in exchange for all went to the hospital. No one was bleed- to the presentation, and Supervisor Yee’s ing, so the doctors took some x-rays of come to see me with their pinched nerve explanation of no position due to a poten- their Edgehill property. problems. This exchange took place on July 15, our neck, gave us pain meds and sent us tial “conflict of interest,” I was more bewil- on our way. The next day I woke up with • Headaches dered than ever. 2004, and it was a happy ending for all, as • Migraines the City got 5 times the number of housing pain everywhere and it just kept getting How this project even got this far worse. For years I tried everything that I • Chronic Pain through the planning department is aston- units built on Gough St. by the Spiers, and • Neck pain also acquired the open space on the moun- could find. For an escape from the pain, ishing, given proper notices were not sent I went to medical doctors, physical thera- • Shoulder/arm pain out. As to Supervisor Yee, I don’t under- tain now designated as Edgehill Mountain • Whiplash from car accidents Walking and Hiking trail. pists, acupuncturists, I tried special pil- stand his “conflict of interest,” as his inter- lows, and anything I thought might help. • Backaches ests are supposed to be the interest of the Supervisor Yee, as president of the • Numbness in limbs Board of Supervisors, should be able to do I spent a lot of time and money. Along the residents of District 7. I did not witness way I had two more car accidents and the • Athletic injuries, just to name a few. one person at the meeting who was in a similar deal today so that the City could Here is what some of your neighbors acquire more open space on Edgehill and pain kept getting worse and worse. I had favor of the project. developed fibromyalgia, neck pain, mid- have said: Development Déjà vu Respecting the the owner of the lots for the 5 Monster “I had back pain for 15 plus years and two homes is not left out in the cold. back pain and low-back pain with tingling property rights of all involved, I concluded and numbness down my right arm and back operations. Now I play tennis, sit at my the public input by recalling how I dealt Good government involves good computer and enjoy an active pain free life! motives, good planning, and good execu- leg. I was scared that something was really with the same problem back in 2002-2004 wrong with me. This could not be normal. Thank you Dr. Meakim!” — A. McGrath when I was the Supervisor for the District. tion to the benefit of all concerned. As San “All possible medicines and doctors, you Franciscans, we deserve at least that much I was only 33 years old and felt like I was Back then, Spiers’ Construction had 100. That is when someone told me about a made a miracle taking away my pain!! I applied for permission to build a mini- considering all the money we are spending am a happy wife and mother again!” — L on our local representatives. chiropractor that they thought could help. mum of 5 homes on what is now Edgehill As a matter of fact, after the first person Igudesman Mountain trail. When I became aware of Wishing all of you a Merry Christmas “I have had chronic neck, shoulder and and Happy New Year! told me about him, two more people did the project and the ensuing neighborhood that same week. So I made an appoint- arm pain for the last 4 years. After seeing Dr. outcry, I arranged for a series of meetings Tony Hall is a former Supervisor for Dis- Meakim I can now twist off caps, button/zip trict 7. His writings for the District and City ment with the chiropractor. Thank good- with the Spiers to see if we could avoid ness that they took the time to help me! I my own pants and there is no longer a need construction on the mountain. Being can be accessed at tonyhallarchives.word- for me to ice my arm in the morning and press.com went to his office where he asked me about good, reasonable and concerned neighbors my problems, did an exam, and took some night! I feel more energetic, and can move themselves, they gave me time to work x-rays of my head and back. After that he my arm and neck pain free!” — C. Brubaker pointed out where my nerves were pinched My qualifications: and adjusted them. The adjustment was so I am a graduate of Palmer College of Elder Abuse at LHH (Cont. from p. 4) light I barely felt it. I began crying as I felt Chiropractic, I have published articles in LHH’s pandemic culture of silence. the pain leave my body for the first time in leading chiropractic journals and taught Many key questions remain. The Califor- Personally, I wonder why the San Fran- years. It may sound strange, but I was so chiropractic to chiropractors! I’ve been nia Advocates for Nursing Home Reform cisco District Attorney’s Office hasn’t happy and grateful for the relief that I still helping your neighbors in San Francisco asked on September 11: What’s being done announced criminal charges in this thank him every day! After that, I knew since 2004. I’ve been entrusted to take to bring the perpetrators to justice? What’s scandal? what I had to do. I had to become a chiro- care of tiny babies to athletes that you may the Police Department — specifically its Oversight? A key part of DPH’s leader- practor, and that’s how it happened! know. Special Victims Unit — doing? Why hasn’t ship problems extends to Health Commis- I have adjusted many children within the My assistants are Miranda and Nancy the State Attorney General’s Elder Abuse sioners Dr. Edward Chow and Dr. David first 15 minutes after birth. They obviously and they are friendly and helpful and ready Unit filed charges against the perpetrators? Sanchez who have served as Commission- didn’t complain of neck pain or back pain; to assist you to set up an evaluation. Our And why hasn’t CDPH denounced the ers for 30 years and 22 years, respectively. I adjust them to keep them healthy... as clinic is both friendly and warm and we try abuse and publicly released its findings? Both men served repeatedly on the Com- with all the hundreds of children I care our best to make you feel at home. We have After all, the drugging of patients with mission’s LHH Joint Conference Commit- for in my office. wonderful service at an exceptional fee. unprescribed opioids was first detected and tee that is charged, in part, with receiving You see, it’s not normal for kids to get ear Our clinic is called Healthy Life Chiroprac- reported to LHH’s Medical Director, Dr. LHH’s Quality Management reports. infections, asthma, allergies or a number of tic and it is at 101 Clement Street (at the Michael Mcshane, as early as February 26, Hirose, Gomez, Valencia, Chow, and other illnesses we see clear up in our office corner of Clement St. and 2nd Avenue). 2018 by doctors at other hospitals where Sanchez all had to have known the Decem- everyday. Our phone number is 415-751-7071. Call five patients had been transported with life- ber 2016 “Class AA” citation’s two-year When the nervous system is working today for an appointment. We can help threatening conditions, including respira- period hadn’t ended. Is that why the patient correctly your internal resistance and heal- you. tory arrest. Mcshane replied the same day abuse wasn’t reported to the State? ing powers are enhanced. Thank you.—Dr. Christina Meakim D.C. that an internal investigation was underway On November 19, CDPH responded to A healthy family does NOT rely on P.S. When accompanied by the first fam- at LHH. Did Mcshane ever conclude that a records request saying “CDPH cannot medication to make it well. My family does ily member, I am also offering the second internal investigation? comment on an ongoing investigation.” not turn to medication to seek health and family member this same examination for Culture of Silence In his November Westside Why has CDPH’s investigation dragged on we don’t have a “medicine chest” in our only $17. Observer article, former LHH physician, from at least May 29 to November 19 with- home. Due to years of advertising satura- P.P.S. Can you imagine not having to Dr. Derek Kerr — wrongfully terminated in out conclusion? Stay tuned. tion from the pharmaceutical companies wait at a doctor’s office? Well, your time June 2010 in retaliation for whistleblowing A greatly expanded version of this article most Americans do seek health from out- is as valuable as mine. That’s why we have — asked what had happened with investi- with significant details is available at stopL- side in and most families have a “medicine a no-wait policy. You will be seen within gations by LHH’s physician-run Medical HHdownsize.com. chest” filled with an average of 16 different minutes of your appointment. Quality Improvement Committee and its Monette-Shaw operates stopLHHdown- medications. P.P.P.S. Of course, all people respond dif- Performance Improvement and Patient size.com. Contact him at monette-shaw@ In an average year, the World Health ferently to care. Safety Committee, since both committees westsideobserver.com. Organization (WHO) reports over 1.5 have offered only silence. That mirrors Page 13 December - January 2020

West Portal of Twin Peaks Tunnel with Christmas Decorations on Tunnel | November 18, 1958. Permission to use this image from the San Francisco Metropolitan Transportation Committee

the suspect. A search of the car Breaking Windows – Probation earlier. The suspects were identi- determined he stole property Police Report (Cont. from p. 8) located more of the victim’s prop- Violation fied and a search warrant was from an unlocked Rec & Park A group said they were play- erty. When a check revealed a 8:26 pm | 2600 Ocean Ave conducted. One was arrested and building He was arrested. ing basketball when the suspect warrant for his arrest, he was a second suspect was cited. A woman said she heard the sus- Sunday | November 24 asked to join the game. When arrested. pect banging on the window next Warrant Arrest – Arrested they told him he would have to Auto Burglary – Arrested Robbery of a Residence wait until the current game was to her but ignored him until she 1:24 pm | 200 West Portal Ave 12:46 pm | Great Hwy & Sloat heard the window cracking and When officers saw a suspect 3:27 am | 00 Byxbee St over, he waited about 10 minutes, At Taraval Station, a man said that then angrily threw a water bottle Responding to a report, officers saw the glass shattering. Officers standing in the roadway, causing were approaching car when the detained the suspect and he was a hazard, they detained him and a he contracted an escort service on the gym floor and took a gun and when the escort arrived, he out, but did not remove it from suspect attempted to exit. They arrested. check revealed an arrest warrant. detained the suspect also iden- The subject was arrested. went back outside to “get some- it’s holster nor point it at anyone. Friday | November 22 thing” but walked back in with Then he walked away. tified and detained two other Saturday | November 23 suspects in the area. Two of the Breaking Windows – Arrested two more suspects who pointed a Sunday | November 17 suspects were later arrested and 8:07 am | 00 West Portal Ave Robbery gun at him. They stole his money and other property before fleeing Robbery one suspect was cited. A man, who appeared to be 9:53 am | Rivera St & 19th Ave 7:18 pm | 1300 11th Ave Monday | November 18 intoxicated and was bleeding, fell The victim, who was found asleep Tuesday | November 26 down, but got up and kicked at on the street, reported that he Two women were walking when Robbery Robbery a car stopped and two suspects the front window of a restaurant observed three suspects beating 8:06 pm | Plymouth Ave & Broad before running away. Officers someone, he tried to break up 4:21 pm | Taraval St & 22nd Ave exited got out. One of the suspects Two juveniles said they were on a offered a gold colored necklace A woman was sitting near the detained and he was arrested. the fight but they started hitting door of a LRV when the suspect Stolen Vehicle – Arrested him as well. He said that when he LRV when four suspects, also juve- to one of the women, reaching niles, started an argument with over to put it over her head. She grabbed her cell phone. She tried 7:00 pm | 100 Broad St awoke, his jacket was missing. to stop him, but he pushed her them and demanded their prop- refused and blocked the first sus- A woman called police when she Robbery and a nearby elderly passenger erty. One of the suspects punched pect but the second grabbed her saw the suspect parking a car in 8:16 am | Broad St & Capitol Ave out of the away and fled with it. one of the victims in the face and a own necklace and fled with it. front of her home, despite a stay A woman was sitting on a LRV, second suspect brandished a knife Stolen Vehicle – Stolen Property Wednesday | November 20 away order. Officers found the car holding her purse, when a suspect before they stole the victims’ prop- 7:20 am | Ocean & Harold Ave Battery and discovered it was stolen. The grabbed the purse and ran off the erty and fled. suspect was found at the corner LRV with it. A man reported that his car 9:06 am | 1400 La Playa St Editors Note: This feature is an was missing and on his way to and was arrested. Burglary abbreviated version of the Police Two neighbors argued about one Search Warrant – Arrested the station to file a report when party’s dogs urinating on her 12:24 pm | 300 Sloat Blvd Report found at www.taraval.org he discovered his car nearby plants. Fighting ensued and both 8:33 am Investigating a report of a sus- with the suspect inside it. Offi- parties requested to press charges. SIT Sgts and TNT officers investi- picious person in Stern Grove, cers responded and detained Officers cited both parties. gated a robbery that had occurred officers detained the suspect, and

SFPD/FBI (Cont. from p. 13) Missing In Action (Cont. from p. 9) chive/2011/04/26/spies-blue/ to be running afoul of his avowed 4. sanfranciscopolice.org/sites/default/files/2018-11/DGO8.10 Guidelines for First environmental supporters. Former Amendment Activities.pdf Governor Gray Davis was dismissed 5. sf-hrc.org/sites/default/files/Documents/HRC_Publications/Articles/AMEMSA_ Report_Adopted_by_HRC_022411.pdf over his power policies. Water is of 6. www.sfbar.org/forms/newsroom/basf-safe-sf-ordinance.pdf even greater import. 7. www.aclu.org/blog/national-security/discriminatory-profiling/fbi-foia-docs-show- Finally, I disagree with the West- use-mosque-outreach-illegal-intel 8, 15, 17. sanfranciscopolice.org/sites/default/files/Documents/PoliceCommission/ side Observer’s utility expert about Letter to Police Commission Regarding Joint Terrorism Task Force.pdf Mr. Kelly. He has been the most 9. sfgov.legistar.com/View.ashx?M=F&ID=1933646&GUID=64411D84-798B-4C90- open and accessible GM. He is a 9917-4CBF6E17DC1B keeper. 10. cdt.org/insights/investigative-guidelines-cement-fbi-role-as-domestic-intelligence- agency-raising-new-privacy-challenges/ Brian Browne was coauthor of 2002 11. sanfranciscopolice.org/sites/default/files/Documents/PoliceCommission/Police- Prop P and former member of the Commission020117-2016JTTFReport.pdf 12. sanfrancisco.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?view_id=11&clip_id=34167 Revenue Bond Oversight Committee 13. kqed.org/news/10832395/fbi-s-f-police-counterterrorism-activity-violated-local- it created. Feedback: browne@west- law-advocates-say sideobserver.com 14. sanfranciscopolice.org/sites/default/files/Documents/PoliceCommission/Police- Commission020117-DPA2016FirstAmendmentComplianceAuditDGO810.pdf 15. sanfranciscopolice.org/sites/default/files/Documents/PoliceCommission/sfpoa letter1.pdf We’re On The Web! Page 14 December-January 2020 beads, stones, crystals and gift bags. Info: [email protected] or 415 355-2898. Dec 18 - West Portal Book Club - West Portal Branch, 11 am –12:30 pm An Odyssey: A Father, A Son, and An Epic by Daniel Mendelsohn. We meet the 3rd Wed monthly and read both fiction and nonfiction. New members welcome. What are we reading next? 415 355-2886 or go to the West Portal Library web page. Dec 18 - Discussion Group of West Portal - West Portal Branch, 6:30–8:30 pm If you like great ideas, great writing, and stimulating discussion, we meet the fourth Wednes- day (most months). Info: Jim at 415 613-4746 or to find out how to get the selection. Dec 19 - Craft: Beaded Mandarin Orange - West Portal Artistry and Craft Club | December/January West Portal, 6:30–8 pm We meet the third Thursday of each month for conviviality and craft-making. Join us. Space is limited. Info: 415 355-2886. Shifting SF Sports Scene…What a difference a year makes… A year ago, the Giants Dec 21 - Crafts for the Holidays -Ingleside Branch, 2:30–4 pm Join Esther to make were coming off of another bad season, the 49ers were suffering through an injury crafts. Adults, seniors and children 8 and up accompanied by adults are also welcome. - plagued season, and the Warriors were headed to their 5th straight NBA finals. 365 days later, here we sit; The Giants have a load of questions with an uninspiring managerial Dec 26 - Craft: Adult Coloring Club - Merced Branch, 6–7 pm Enjoy coloring for hire, the Warriors are 2-11, with so many injuries they are starting players that almost relaxation or creative expression. Bring your own or the library will provide coloring none of the fans recognize, but the 49ers have flipped the script, going 9-1 so far, a pages, pencils and crayons. Meets the 4th Thursday monthly. New members welcome. missed field goal away from starting a perfect 10-0. Oh, there’s lots to fret about with the Please Note: All Library locations will close at 5 pm on Tue, Dec 24 and Tue, Dec31. All remaining schedule, a load of injuries, and the inconsistency of developing players. Even Library locations will be closed on Wed, December 25. with the injuries, the team looks vastly improved and deeper at almost every position. Merced Branch | 155 Winston Drive (at 19th Ave) | 415 355-2825 | www.sfpl.org It should be fun down the home stretch towards a probable playoff berth. Now if the West Portal Branch | 190 Lenox Way at Ulloa | 415 355-2886 | www.sfpl.org Giants can turn things around in 2020. Ingleside Branch | 1298 Ocean Avenue | 415 355-2898 | www.sfpl.org Bluegrass Bonanza! … West Portal Avenue’s own Shelby Ash (The Music Store) pres- ents music reflecting the best of “new” bluegrass and Americana music. December 7 – Honky-Tonk Saturday Night with Nashville Honeymoon - Join us for a night of swingin’, two-steppin’ and honky-tonkin’. Featuring the Bay Area’s most loved husband-wife classic country band. Pick up your copy of the brand-spankin’ new N.H. “Two-Bit Town” at The Music Store on West Portal or at the show | Plough & Stars, 116 Clement St. | 9 pm – 12 am Info/tix: www.shelbyas- hpresents.net December 13 – The Pine Box Boys present The Feast of Three Arms with Junk Parlor To celebrate the holiday of the same name, join us Friday the 13th as we honor the Woman with Three Arms, the Boy that Loved Her, and The Man that Done Her Wrong. The Junk Parlor and “Gentleman” Jimmy Hadley and the Swindling Drifters will join the cel- ebration. | Milk Bar, 1840 Haight St. - 9 pm | Info/ SantaCon 25th Anniversary - Saturday, December 7th. . . It’s that time of year again - Be tix: Eventbrite.com prepared to get your Santa on!!!! Last year between 10-12,000 attendees made the event a success, collecting over 1,500 toys!! Great job for the Santas! It was reported on ABC7 Get into the Garden… The Garden for the Environment folks at TV news, by the SFPD, that SantaCon is the largest single contributor of toys in the 7th Avenue and Lawton have the following workshops available. history of the SFPD toy drive! Join the fun at SantaCon 2019. For more info – www. Give them a call or go online to register. SantaCon.info Educational Volunteer Hours | Wed & Sat | 10 am to 3 pm | Free “Another Hole in the Head” -Film Fest… The ‘Another Hole in Join us on Wednesdays and Saturdays to help with garden main- the Head’ Film Festival is a two-week cinematic excursion into tenance tasks. You’ll work alongside staff and fellow volunteers the realms of Science Fiction, Fantasy, Horror, and assorted on a range of activities like composting, vegetable planting and other genres. Taking its cue from other legendary festivals harvesting, pruning, and weeding. Info: bit.ly/GFEVolunteer such as Cannes, Sundance, and Crazy Steve’s Bootleg Base- Urban Composting | Saturday, Dec 7 | 10 am to 12 pm | Free! ment Extravaganza, Another Hole in the Head pulls together Learn to make your very own compost! The backbone of every healthy garden, com- a diverse collection of films from all varieties and budgetary post improves all soil types and can be the difference between success and failure with considerations. From your buddy Keith’s skateboarding footage many plants. In this class, we will teach you how to make compost in your backyard, in an enchanted forest, to Burt Reynolds in Space, to tomor- and introduce you to our worms that make their own special fertilizer. Sponsored by row’s cult classic destined for Lionsgate, Another Hole in the the Department of the Environment Register: bit.ly/GFEComposting2019 Head provides a unique vehicle for independent cinema. This The Edible Garden | Saturday, Dec 14 | 10 am to 12 pm | $25 year’s festival will occur December 1st - December 15th at New People Cinema 1746 Post St in San Francisco’s Japantown and Learn to take full advantage of the unique San Francisco gardening climate, where will screen over 180 films in a two-week period. For more info you can grow your own fruits and vegetables year-round. This workshop will focus on please reach us at www.ahith.com planning for your fall and winter garden and summer pests and diseases to look out for. Register: bit.ly/GFEEdibleGarden2019 Holiday Crafts Day at the Randall Museum… Get crafty and make presents and decora- Garden for the Environment | 7th & Lawton St | www.gardenfortheenvironment.org tions for the winter holidays this year at the Randall Museum’s annual Holiday Crafts (415) 558-8246 Day, Saturday, December 7 from 10 am – 2 pm. The museum, at 199 Museum Way, will be bustling with fun holiday craft activities for the whole family. Kids can create one-of- Do you have an event, a neighborhood fact or just an observation to share? Drop us a line a-kind hand-made gifts and items to decorate their homes. Learn how to roll beeswax at [email protected] and share your ideas or just let us know what you think. candles and make handmade lip balm, then sweeten the season by creating a candy house with marshmallow and gumdrop chimneys, licorice doors and peppermint sid- ing. Explore new areas of the museum for unexpected surprises while enjoying familiar favorites likes building toy trains, soapmaking and more. It’s free to join in the fun. For more info call: 415.554.9600 or visit the website, www.randallmuseum.org FREE At the West Portal, Merced and Ingleside branches of the SFPL for December… Dec 3 -Book Club: Merced Branch Library Book Club | 7-830 pm Join a lively discussion of SF’s 2019 One City One Book selection There There by Tommy Orange. Meets bimonthly, and new members welcome. Info: at 415 355-2825 or [email protected]. Dec 4, 11, and 18 - Ingleside Branch, 10 am–Noon Technology: Basic Computer Help for Seniors in English and Chinese - No sign ups required, come with your questions! Dec 7,14, 21, 28 - West Portal, 2–4 pm Technology: Computer Help for Adults/Seniors - Drop-in and get help with a tech savvy teen volunteer. Learn to use your laptop, eRead- ers, gadgets, digital cameras, tablets or cell phones. Christmas Tree Lighting | Friday, December 6 | 5-6:30 pm | McCoppin Square Dec 10 – Knitting Circle - Merced Branch, 6-7:30 pm Join us with your knit projects Albert Chow announced the annual People of Parkside (POPS) Christmas Tree Light- (all levels) and spread the inspiration! Practice supplies provided, but bring your own if ing will be on Friday, December 6, from 5-6:30 pm at McCoppin Square (Taraval Street you have a special project in mind. For ages 13 and up. & 23rd Avenue). POPS will provide hot chocolate, popcorn, live Christmas music that Dec 11- Craft Night - Merced Branch -6-7:30 pm Join us the second Thu each month you can sing along with. You are invided to bring your own ornaments to help decorate for a fun night of crafting! (Ages 13 and up). Space is limited. Pre-registration is required. Taraval’s Tree! Sign up with a librarian or 415 355-2825. Sign up starts on the first day of the month. Dec 11-Wellness: Laughter Yoga For All Ages - West Portal Branch, 6:30–7:30 pm No mats. No poses. No jokes. Just laughter in community. Laughter is healing and conta- Mail to gious. A Laughter Yoga Leader will show us how. All ages are welcome. your check to: Mail your check to: Dec 13 - Craft: Jewelry Making- Ingleside Branch, 4–5:30 pm Join Chelsee Robinson for jewelry-making instruction and construction. All materials are provided — tools, POB 27176, SF 94127 • [email protected] Page 15 December-January 2020 CELEBRATE THE 75TH YEAR — THE NUTCRACKER — SF BALLET Holiday Parties at The Cliff House The Terrace Room Offering sweeping views of the Pacifi c Ocean, historic ambiance and delightful cuisine, the Terrace Room is a truly unique private event venue for groups up to 120. Private Events Direct 415-666-4027 [email protected] The Lands End Room Located in the Sutro's Restaurant, the Lands End Room is a semi-private 75TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Wed Dec 11 | 7 pm | +Various times thru Dec 29th. Continue a tradition or create a new one with those you care about. Nutcracker is for everyone so whether it’s with friends, family, space for smaller parties of 17 – 49 co-workers or a special someone, attend the 75th Anniversary Celebration. It will be a spectacular experience. offering California cuisine, awesome More than 150 costumed characters–from Clara and the Nutcracker Prince to mice, fairies, a Snow Queen and ocean views and Sutro Baths history. more! Tchaikovsky’s classic score performed live in full glory by the renowned SF Ballet Orchestra and elaborate Large Parties Direct 415-666-4005 scenery and costumes by a Tony Award-winning design team. Tix: ($25-285 ) sfballet.org [email protected] Please note: Nutcracker is most magical for children 5 and older. No children under age 3 are allowed, including babes in arms. Call soon to book your event! December/January 1090 Point Lobos 415-386-3330 cliffhouse.com EVERY SUNDAY • FARMERS MARKET ONGOING • EMBARCADERO ICE RINK Farmers Market | Every Sun | 9 am–1 pm | Fresh Thru Jan 3 | Sun-Thu: 10 am - 9:30 pm / Fri-Sat: Until fruits and vegetables stars in this popular market, rear 11:30 pm | Bay Area’s largest outdoor ice rink, at Justin parking lot: Stonestown (19th Ave @ Winston). Herman Plaza, across from the historic Ferry Building. EVERY SUNDAY • VICTORIAN TOUR $12 • (8 & under) $7 • Skate Rental $5. May close for rain or private-parties. Info: 415 837-1931 | echolicay- [email protected] | embarcaderocenter.com ONGOING • NIGHT BLOOM

Sundays | 2 pm | Victorian era architecture Lafayette Square. SF’s illustrious history, steep streets & fabu- lous views! 1801 Bush St. garden. Donations MUNI 1, 3. Check out many tours of SF: INFO: sfcityguides.org SUNDAYS • FREE COMMUNITY YOGA Now through - Jan 7 | Light up the season with Night 25TH SANTACON • SAT • DEC. 7 • 10 AM-6 PM • UNION SQUARE Bloom, a light and sound exhibition in an illuminated Though Rec & Parks has still denied SantaCon a permit Every Sun | 10 am | Bring Your Own Mat for outdoor Conservatory of Flowers bursting with vibrant and and the phenomena has grown so much, it now takes yoga at Playland at 43rd Ave. All classes are FREE and luminous displays through the five galleries. AVAIL- request for amplified sound to host costume contests place in well over 100 cities around the world. Last DROP IN. (Rain cancels.) 1360 43rd Ave & Judah. Can- ABLE DAYS: conservatoryofflowers.org/nightbloom/ and a singalong for this year’s event, Santas won’t be year’s SantaCon had more than 10,000 people get out cellations: Playland Yoga Facebook Page. JFK Drive, GG Park. deterred. Thousands of Santas, Mrs. Clauses, Elves, to Union Square to have fun and give a little to those reindeer, and grinches will continue the holiday ca- JAZZ FRIDAYS @ THE CLIFF HOUSE DAILY • SF FIREFIGHTERS TOY PROGRAM in need. The event is free, 21+, and attendees are en- per, without a singalong or a contest. couraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy that can be The first SantaCon took place in San Francisco in 1994 donated to Toys for Tots. (Photo Steve Rhodes)

THU • POPS: PEOPLE OF PARKSIDE SAT • AUTHOR EMILY WU Thu Dec 5 | 7 pm | Marketing Taraval begins the meet- Sat Dec 7 | 1 pm | The author will Every Fri | 7–11 pm | The Balcony Lounge at the Cliff ing, SFMTA update and the cardboard crisis. at the Taraval speak and answer questions about her Daily | In its 64th year of helping children, the Toy House hosts jazz every Fri night. 1 Seal Rock. For INFO: Station, 2345 24th Ave. Every first Thursday. inspiring memoir of a young girl help- cliffhouse.com/home/jazz Program is the largest in the U.S. and is looking for lessly caught up in the chaos of the donations of unwrapped toys. Bring toys to any S.F. FRI • JOHN KALLEEN GROUP Cultural Revolution in China, A Feather EVERY TUES • QUE SYRAH HAPPY HOUR firehouse 415-777-0440, sffirefighterstoys.org in the Wind and A Single Tear, a family’s Every Tue Happy Hour | 4–8 pm | Que Syrah Wine TUES • HISTORY: WOMEN’S LUNG CLINIC persecution, love and Endurance in Communist China. Bar. Take $1 off each glass, 10% off each bottle (con- Tues Dec 3 | 6 pm | In 1911, with the help of wealthy Main Branch, 100 Larkin St. sumed on site). 230 West Portal Ave. 415 731-7000 society women, Dr. Philip King Brown opened the SUN • FILM: ALADDIN EVERY THURS • NIGHTLIFE Arequipa Sanatorium in Marin County. Together, Sun Dec 8 | 3 pm | A live-action adaptation of the 1992 Every Thu | 6–10 pm |  The Academy of Sciences Brown and his all-female staff gave new life to hun- animated film. Aladdin, a poor homeless orphan, falls in dreds of working-class women suffering from tuber- Fri Dec 6 | 7-11 pm | It’s a hot version of “Summer- love with Jasmine, befriends a wish granting genie, and brings live music, science, mingling and coctails. GG time,” a cool version of “Footsteps” and beautifully Park $12 ($10 Members). calacademy.org/nightlife. culosis. RSVP: space limited. CA Historical Society, 678 battles the wicked Jafar. PG Merced Branch, 155 Winston. Mission St. Cost: $5, non-members. crafted originals! The JKG is a jazz quartet in the classic SUN • AUTHOR SHANTA SACHAROFF FRIDAYS • TEEN COMPUTER CORPS style. Cliff House, 1090 Point Lobos. WED • GWPNA Sun Dec 8 | 2 pm | Shanta Nimbark Fri | 4-5:30 pm | Trouble with Technology? We can FRI • GUIDE DOGS FOR THE BLIND Sacharoff will give a lecture-demo Wed Dec 4 | 6:30 | Greater West Portal Neighborhood help with kindles, email, laptops, tablets, cell phones Fri Dec 6 | 11 am | Guide Dogs for the Blind Holiday on how to make alcohol-free bever- and other electronic gadgets at the Parkside Branch, Assn meetings are open to all members and to the ages and healthy vegetarian snacks. public, first Wed each Month. Zephyr Real Estate Of- Luncheon: The 43rd annual fundraiser includes a re- 1200 Taraval. Info: 415-355-5770. ception, raffle, boutique, meal and program. $150. St. Her current book, Cooking Together: fice, 215 West Portal Avenue. GWPNA.org SATURDAYS • COMPUTER HELP Francis, 335 Powell St., www.guidedogs.com A Vegetarian Co-op Cookbook, con- WED • TREE LIGHTING/CIVIC CENTER tains recipes from today’s program. Tasting of beverages Sat | 2-4 pm | Drop-in help with a teen tech savvy vol- FRI • FILM: ROCKETMAN Wed Dec 4 | 4-7 pm | Civic Center Plaza Holiday Tree and snacks to follow.. Main Branch, 100 Larkin St. unteer! Bring your laptop, eReaders, gadgets, digital Fri Dec 6 | 2 pm | A musi- Lighting: On the bill of family-friendly festivities are MON • SING IT YOURSELF MESSIAH cameras, tablets or cell phones and we can help you cal fantasy about the fan- live music, the Tap Dancing Christmas Trees, visits from learn how to use it. West Portal Branch, 190 Lenox. tastical human story of Mon Dec 9 | 7:30 pm | This year “serious” singers” the Grinch and Santa, and a toy giveaway, free. Polk ONGOING • GREAT DICKENS FAIR Elton John’s breakthrough and Grove www.civiccentercommons.org years. Main Branch, 100 WED-SUN • SCROOGE IN LOVE Larkin St. SAT • LANDS END & SUTRO TOUR

Thru Dec 22 | Immerse yourself in a world of music Dec 4-22 | Wed-Thu 7 pm; Fri 8 pm; Sat 6 pm; Sun halls, theatres, pubs, and charming shops overflowing 3pm; Sat Mat, Dec 14 |1pm | A year after the Dick- with hand-made holiday treasures. Enticing aromas of ens tale, we find a reformed Scrooge looking for his Sat Dec 7 & 14 | 2 pm | There are a few ocean vistas roasted chestnuts and hearty foods fill the air. Over 800 lost love, Belle, and revisiting past, present, and future more arresting than Land’s End — a fact millionaire have the option to sit in the audience with our chorus lively and colorful characters from the imagination of with hilarious, ghostly friends! Both side-splitting and Adolph Sutro was well aware of when he built the first members and group together by part (Soprano, Alto, Charles Dickens and the sometimes saucy world of the hopelessly romantic—now a cherished SF tradition! passenger steam train to the park in 1880. He wasn’t Tenor, Bass). $25-45 Golden Gate Symphony Orches- done there—Meet: Entrance gate to Sutro Park on Point Victorian stage. Tix: dickensfair.com Gateway Theater, 215 Jackson St. 42ndstmoon.org tra & Chorus. Herbst Theater, 401 Van Ness Ave. gold- Lobos & 48th Ave. sfcityguides.org. engatesymphony.org Page 16 December-January 2020 THU • OPEN HAND LUNCHEON SUN • SF MADE GIFT FAIR MON • LIVE NATIVITY Thu Dec 12 | 11 am | Project Open Hand’s 27th sea- Sun Dec 15 | 11 am - 5 pm | The 9th shopping event Mon Dec 23| 5-8 pm | Experience the Nativity with sonal fundraiser Hand to Hand supports its efforts to offers locally made gift items from 60 vendors—jew- all the animals and music and its hope and good will. serve meals to people in critical need. $250. Fairmont, elry, chocolate, apparel, toys, decorations, stationery Shrine of St. Francis and Portziuncola Nueva, Vallejo 950 Mason St., www.openhand.org and more. free. California College of the Arts, 1111 at Columbus, North Beach. December 2019 THU • DAY AFTER TOMORROW Eighth St., sfmade.org TUE • A CHRISTMAS CAROL BESTSELLERS SUN • HOLIDAY BRASS/SF SYMPHONY Tue Dec 24 | 2 pm | Disney’s animated adaptation of 1. Catch and Kill: Lies, Spies, and a Conspiracy to Charles Dickens’ classic Christmas story. Directed by Protect Predators Ronan Farrow Robert Zemeckis. Starring Jim Carrey, Gary Oldman 2. The Dutch House Ann Patchett and Colin Firth. , Ocean View Branch, 345 Randolph. 3. The Testaments Margaret Atwood TUE • FILM: SAN FRANCISCO 4. Talking to Strangers: What We Should Know about the People We Don’t Know Malcolm Thu Dec 12 | Noon | Jack Hall, paleoclimatologist, must Gladwell make a daring trek from Washington, D.C. to New York Sun Dec 15 | 8 pm | The popular Holiday Brass concert 5. Blowout: Corrupted Democracy, Rogue State City to reach his son, trapped in a sudden international is back! Feel the power and precision of the SF Sym- Russia, and the Richest, Most Destructive Indus- storm which plunges the planet into a new Ice Age. phony brass section as they fill the Hall with a festive try on Earth Rachel Maddow PG-13, Dennis Quaid, Jake Gyllenhaal, Emmy Rossum. mix of classical and popular holiday favorites 6. The Last Train to London Meg Waite Clayton * Main Branch, 100 Larkin St. 7. The Water Dancer Ta-Nehisi Coates SUN • POET KIM SHUCK Thu Dec 26 | Noon | A Barbary Coast saloonkeeper FRI • SOMETHING BIG 8. Agent Running in the Field John Le Carre Sun Dec 15 | 2 pm | SF’s seventh poet laureate has and a Nob Hill impresario are rivals for the affections 9. Where the Crawdads Sing Delia Owens two new books. Deer Trails is a love letter to the city. of a beautiful singer, both personally and profession- 10. Olive Again Elizabeth Stroud Murdered Missing about murdered and missing Indig- ally in 1906 San Francisco. 115 mins., 1936, with 11. The Body: A Guide for Occupants Bill Bryson enous women. Main Library, 100 Larkin St. Clark Gable, Jeanette MacDonald, Spencer Tracy Main 12. Blue Moon Lee Child Branch, 100 Larkin St. TUE • COMMUNITY SAFETY MEETING 13. Me Elton John Tue Dec 17 | 6-7 pm | Meet with Captain Rainsford at FRI • TURNAROUND JAZZ 14. Year of the Monkey Patti Smith Taraval Station. Taraval Community Room, 2345 24th 15. The Ventriloquists E.R. Ramzipoor * Fri Dec 13 | 7-11 pm | It’s a delightful musical cocktail Ave. Meets every 3rd Tues. taraval.org — a bit spicy with a dash of cool jazz and James Bond. * Spoke at BookShop West Portal; signed copies available Eva Jay Fortune – vocals, guitar, and percussion; Kevin TUE • WORLD FILM: ARABY (BRAZIL) WHAT ARE YOU READING? Bertness – keyboards; Steve Fowler – standup bass; and Nicky Garratt – Guitar. Cliff House, 1090 Pt. Lobos Fri Dec 27 | 7-11 pm | An East Bay-based jazz ensem- FRI • LIGHTED BOAT PARADE ble performing original and classic straight-ahead, bossa nova, Latin music, ballads and blues—a swinging, harmonious ensemble that has delighted Tue Dec 17 | 5:45 | When a factory worker is injured. audiences since 2007. Cliff House, 1090 Pt. Lobos Andre is tasked with going to his house to pick up his SAT • FILM: CITY OF BONES SF COMEDY FESTIVAL clothes, and discovers a notebook, which works as a Sat Dec 28 | 2 pm | In New York City, when her moth- Thu-Sun Jan 9-26 | Various venues | SF Sketchfest catalyst to transform Andre’s life. (Subtitles) Main er disappears, a seemingly ordinary teenager named was founded in 2001 to showcase Bay Area sketch Fri Dec 13 | 6–8 pm | Fisherman’s Wharf Lighted Boat Branch, 100 Larkin St. Clary Fray learns that she descends from a line of comedy groups and has grown rapidly into a nation- Parade: 60 decorated boats parade along the water- FRI • MOONGLOW GROUP Shadowhunters — half-angel warriors who protect ally recognized comedy festival for the best up-and- front in the event, held since 1994, Fisherman’s Wharf humanity from evil forces. West Portal Branch, 190 coming groups from throughout North America for a Benefit District & St. Francis Yacht Club. free. Pier 39, Lenox Way. month of sketch, improv, stand-up and alternative www.visitfishermanswharf.com SAT • FILM: MARY POPPINS RETURNS comedy. Info, schedule and tix: sfsketchfest.com. FRI • DOCENT TOUR: OLD US MINT Sat Dec 28 | 2 pm | In Depression-era London, a now- THU-SUN • FOG Dec 13 | 3 pm | Journey through 150 years of history grown Jane and Michael Banks are visited by the Thu-Sun Jan 16-19 | 11 am - 7 pm (Sun 5 pm) | with a CHS docent who will share stories, discuss the enigmatic Mary Poppins, who’s magical skills help FOG Design+Art fair assembles leading international architecture, and answer questions about the Old U.S. Fri Dec 20 | 7-11 pm | From the gypsy jazz of Django the family rediscover the joy and wisdom missing in galleries and design dealers, plus exciting public pro- Mint. 85 Fifth St. Meet: NW side. CA Historical Society Reinhardt, and classic blues, swing, soul and pop - their lives. Merced Branch, 155 Winston. gramming for an unforgettable experience unique to $10. 415-357-1848 ext. 22 violinist and vocalist Richard Chon, formerly with Dan SUN • KWANZAA (4TH DAY ) SF. $25 Fort Mason Pavilion, 2 Marina Blvd. SAT • PAROL LANTERN FESTIVAL Hicks mixes it with guitarist Mike Wollenberg and SF RESTAURANT WEEK bassist Bing Nathan. The Balcony at the Cliff House. 1 Jan 22-31 | A 10 day celebration of SFs world-class Seal Rock. INFO: cliffhouse.com/home/jazz. dining community. 130 restaurants offer special prix- SAT • RUSSIAN BELLS CONCERT fixe minus to showcase their passion for sharing great Fri Dec 20 | 7-11 pm | The ma- food. Visit www.sfrestaurantweek.com for a list of jestic sound of Russian bells with participating restaurants. SF Symphony’s guest percussion- Sun Dec 29 | 1 pm | On this fourth day of Kwanzaa SAT • OMI NEIGHBORS ist, Victor Avdienko, the program celebrate Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics) with the Thu Jan 23 | 7 - 8:30 pm | Regular meetings resume. Sat Dec 14 | 4-8 pm | Parol Lantern Festival & Parade: includes an introduction On West African music of Jesse Sahbi. The program will (4th Thurs) Temple UMC 65 Beverly St. (Shields) The Filipino community hosts the 17th annual yuletide Russian Bells and Bell Ringing be followed by a feast. Main Branch, 100 Larkin St. MON • S.H.A.R.P display and festivities, preceded by lantern-making by Mark Galperin, Bell Concert by Victor Avdienko, TUE • RING THE BUDDHA BELL workshops. free. Jessie Square, Mission & Yerba Buena screening of Blagovest Bells’ film A Voice of Pure Earth: Mon Jan 28 | 7 pm | Meets last Monday of the Lane, www.bayanihancc.org The Sacred Bells of Russia. Main Branch, 100 larkin St. month at 1736 Ninth Avenue (between Moraga and SAT/SUN • SUNSET HOLIDAY MERCANTILE SAT • FILM: STARDUST Noriega). 6:30 p.m. for cookies and conversation. For updated meeting info: sharpsf.org Sat Dec 21 | 2 pm | To win the heart of his beloved, Tristran ventures into the Stormhold, a magical and MON • CENTRAL COUNCIL surprisingly sunny world populated by witches, light- Mon Jan 27 | 7:30-9 pm | West of Twin Peaks Cen- ning smugglers and bloodthirsty nobles, who literally tral Council meets the 4th Monday of the month to bleed blue, to retrieve a fallen star. PG-13. West Portal discuss local topics. Forest Hills Clubhouse, 381 Ma- Branch, 190 Lenox Way. Tue Dec 31 | 11:30 am (public) | 34th Annual New gellan Ave. westoftwinpeaks.org Sat – Sun Dec 14-15 | 11am – 5pm | Eat, drink, shop, SAT • FILM: MARY POPPINS Year’s Bell-Ringing Ceremony. Take a swing at a play). Explore 85+ artisans, artists, merchants and 2,100-pound, 16th-century temple bell, with a puri- children’s activities, lively entertainment, scrump- Sat Dec 21 | 2 pm | When the children of a wealthy, fication ritual and chanting of the Buddhist Heart tious food, beer and wine tasting! Free and fun for uptight family are faced with a new nanny, they are Sutra. Leave behind any bad experiences, regrettable Got An Event? (Westside Events Get Priority) all! County Fair Building in GG Park (1199 9th Ave. @ pleasantly surprised to embark on a series of adven- deeds or ill luck. Asian Art Museum 200 Larkin St. [email protected] Lincoln) sunsetmercantilesf.com tures and try to pass on some of the nanny’s sunny at- SAT • AUTHOR YOLANDA NAVA titude to their parents. Merced Branch, 155 Winston. Sat Dec 14 | Noon | The Talking SUN • FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS Books and Braille Center welcomes Sun Dec 22 | 4-6 pm the author of Journey Through | Hanukkah candle- the Dark, her latest book about a lighting and songs. woman’s inner revolution as a re- Ghirardelli Square, 900 sult of sudden blindness due to an N Point St., RSVP: jc- undiagnosed auto immune disease that nearly took center.com. her life. Main Branch, 100 Larkin St. SUN • FILM TOY STORY 4 THU • OMI NEIGHBORS IN ACTION Sun Dec 22 | 3 pm | Woody’s priority is taking care Thu Dec 14 pm |1-3 pm | OMI-NIA No meetings in of his kid, whether that’s Andy or Bonnie. But when Nov or Dec. Instead —Annual Holiday Toy Giveaway Bonnie adds a reluctant new toy to her room, ad- at Minnie & Lovie Rec Center @ Capitol and Mon- venture alongside will show Woody how big the CALIFORNIA ACADEMY OF SCIENCES • GOLDEN GATE PARK • THE REINDEER ARE BACK! tana.)for families in 94112 & 94132 only. world can be for a toy. Merced Branch, 155 Winston. Celebrate the return of the “nomads of the north!” Sporting the largest antlers relative to body size among all living deer species, these majestic mammals (also known as caribou) migrate vast distances every year. More at Reindeer Rendezvous (www.calacademy.org/exhibits/tis-the-season-for-science) daily at noon.