San Francisco Author Writes About the Westside

City girl Denise Webster talks about her book

•••••••••• September, 2022 ••••••••••

by Jonathan Farrell

WWestside native of San Francisco, Denise Webster's book Samuel and The Magic Tree tells of the adventures of a grandmother and her two little grandchildren during their daily walks. The book is available at Bookshop West Portal.

What was initially intended as a Christmas gift for her grandchildren, Samuel & Gigi, the book opened a new career path. After living in Colorado to spend time with her grandchildren at the onset of COVID-19, she is back and determined to live life to the fullest in San Francisco, especially her neighborhood on the Westside.

Webster explained, “Arvada, Colorado where my daughter lives, is about a 25-minute drive northwest of Denver, with mountains, hills, hiking trails and the Majestic View Nature Center, which served as the inspiration for the book. Arvada is lovely. But I'm a city girl and, San Francisco just beckons to me.”

From a Portuguese background, Webster and her parents immigrated to San Francisco from Hong Kong when she was four.

“I consider myself a native San Franciscan,” said Webster. “Because we settled in the Richmond District. As a child, we hardly ventured out of the Richmond District to other neighborhoods, we were very much a part of the community,” so much so, Webster described it as being “entrenched in community.”

She attended Star of The Sea Elementary School from Kindergarten through 8th Grade and then Star of The Sea Academy, all four years of high school.

“It was very different back then,” she said. “Star of the Sea Academy was an all-girls Catholic High School.”

Yet as Webster noted. “Once high school came along, the neighborhoods opened up to me as the academy attracted girls from all over the city.”

“Primarily, it was from the Richmond, Sunset, & West Portal,” she said. “Back then, as I recall, we identified more as parishes, such as St. Cecelia's, St. Brendan's, Holy Name, St. Gabriel, St. Stephen, etc.”

As Webster recollected, a flood of memories emerged. “It was exciting, at that time, venturing into other neighborhoods and forming new friendships.”

Webster credits “the great bus & trolley system, especially the Geary bus," she noted. "It was the way to get downtown.”

Longtime friend and fellow Westside native, Michael Pulizzano remembers, “Yes, the Geary bus would be the way to get around town.”

“We were in plays together,” he explained further. “Back then, all of the Catholic high schools in the City would work together to put on plays and musicals.”

“Denise was talented. I always felt that she could have made a career on the stage,” Pulizzano added.

Their lives took different directions as Webster married after college and moved to the East Bay, raising a family. Still, Webster stayed in touch over the years. “No matter where I moved to or lived for a while. I always considered myself a San Franciscan. The City was and will always be home to me,” she said.

Reminiscing, Webster said “Zimm's on Taraval & 19th Ave, was a hangout. And, that is where I went with a group of friends after my Senior prom.”

“I was sad to see Zimm's close,” she added. “Zimm's was iconic, just like something out of an Edward Hopper painting. It was quintessential '50s and '60s Americana.”

The Westside “out in the Avenues,” as Webster remembers it, “was a good place to be and grow up. But the expectations in those days were different, especially for women.”

“Women in those days were expected to be housewives and raise a family,” said Webster. “I was the only one in my graduating class at Star of The Sea Academy that went to college at UC Berkeley.  As much as I loved my parents and grandparents and the life we had in the neighborhood, I just sensed there was more out there and San Francisco didn't disappoint me.”

“Of course, as soon as we learned how to drive a car, that took us to places outside the City.”

As recent news reports say that almost 7 percent of the City's population left the area, since COVID-19, Webster is determined to re-establish San Francisco as her home, especially the Westside.

“Whenever I happen to meet people from San Francisco,” said Webster, “the conversation seems always to begin with the same greeting. 'What high school did you go to?' It's a way of identifying neighborhood, socio-economic background, etc. And, it opens up questions like ‘do you know…or, do you remember so and so?’ Things like that.”

Webster considers these types of greetings and conversations as part of her generation. “Not because we are drawing borders. Rather, we are simply acknowledging neighborhood pride, community and a sense of roots.”

Webster said that she is looking forward, especially as her book embarks her onto a new venture. “I see the need to appreciate the balance between the past and present.”

Samuel and The Magic Tree is available in paperback and hard cover at Bookshop West Portal. The bookstore is located at 80 West Portal Avenue. Call 415-564-8080 for details. Or, visit the Bookshop West Portal website at

https://www.bookshopwestportal.com

Jonathan Farrell is a local reporter.

September 2022

Farmers Market and St. Ignatious in Tug-of-war over parking spaces

The popular community venue has a detracter

•••••••••• July 19, 2022 ••••••••••

by Jonathan Farrell

The Outer Sunset Farmers Market & Mercantile (OSFMM) is a weekly market featuring farmers, ranchers, food artisans, vendors, makers, merchants, artists and local organizations. Its mission is to connect community, local commerce and causes in festive, family-friendly events. Currently, the OSFMM operates twice a week. It happens at 37th Avenue between Ortega & Quintara (Ortega & Pacheco on Wednesdays). Its hours are Wednesday: 3 - 7 pm | June 8 - August 10, 2022 and Sunday: 9 am - 3 pm | Year-Round.

But Saint Ignatius College Preparatory wants the OSFMM to scale back to provide them with more parking spaces. The Westside Observer was recently alerted by local merchant associations about the problem.

"The renewal of our street closure permit," according to Angie Petitt, Director & Founder of Sunset Mercantile and the OSFMM, it's due to expire on August 13, 2022. Still, it is being held up by our neighbor St. Ignatius…"

"A.P. Giannini Middle School loves our presence," said Albert Chow, President of POPS - People of Parkside/Sunset association. But unfortunately, Saint Ignatius College Preparatory (SI) wants the farmers market to cut back its operations so they can have the parking back they have enjoyed for many years."

Both Chow and Petitt say that if SI were to succeed in its strategy, the popular outdoor venue would be significantly reduced, eliminating "50-90 vendors that make their living at the market," those vendors/businesses would be at a loss. 

"This is far from the truth," said Thomas Murphy, Director of Communications at SI. Speaking briefly with The Westside Observer by phone. He pointed out that SI has long supported the OSFMM as an amenity for the neighborhood we share." 

Yet as Murphy also pointed out. "With the rise of the COVID-19 pandemic and San Francisco Department of Public Health social distancing requirements, OSFMM asked if the market might be temporarily expanded to include the block between Pacheco and Rivera directly in front of the school. Ms. Petitt stated that the market did not intend to expand the number of vendors but to spread them out for public safety."

Murphy went on further, saying. "St. Ignatius agreed to this temporary accommodation with the shared understanding that the market would return to its original location once the restrictions eased. In return for blocking access to the school, particularly for the Jesuit brothers and priests who live there, OSFMM agreed to have their security guards be aware of certain cars needing to access the school during the market hours."

It seems that here is where the conflict arises. Petitt said that SI "demands three full Sunday closures of the Market as well as seven half closures, in order to accommodate SI's events schedule." 

Petitt and others say that SI has not been so cooperative. "The OSFMM has a life of its own, she exclaimed. And it's about the greater community, not just SI or one spot on the block."  

Chow agreed, "the farmers market gets : 2000-6000 visitors per weekend. Whereas if the area were ceded back for Saint Ignatius's parking needs they would serve about 60 cars (assuming each car had 4 people that would be about 240 people)." 

Also, said Chow, "Saint Ignatius currently has a parking lot under its tennis courts, continuous, uninterrupted curb parking around its campus, the rest of 37th Avenue, 36th Avenue, etc."

To clarify and understand the actual parameters of the allotted space, the Westside Observer consulted with City Officials at the Shared Spaces Program that grants permits. 

"There are no other permits or written agreements other than the Shared Spaces permit for the OSFMM," said Robin Abad Ocubillo, Director for the Shared Spaces Program. 

While the weekly market takes place on public streets and sidewalks, not on any private property, "SI does have a right of access to their off-street parking on 37th Ave," added Ocubillo. 

"Our understanding, said Ocubillo, is that Saint Ignatius High School has concerns regarding ease of access both to their parking

lot and to their building frontages for 2 of the 33 Sundays out of the year during large planned events anticipated at the high school." 

Petitt claims that OSFMM has worked continuously to comply with SI's needs and event schedule. But as she said, SI has not been completely forthcoming with the details of its events and plans. 

Speaking on behalf of SI, Murphy thinks the situation got misrepresented as thoughts and feelings got posted around. 

Murphy noted. "We thank OSFMM for making those accommodations and ensuring the priest's safety. Moreover, after St. Ignatius returned to in-person learning, we moved a number of previously scheduled Sunday events to accommodate OSFMM.

Murphy insists that SI has and will continue to support the OSFMM. 

And finally, speaking on behalf of the City and the Shared Spaces Program, Oscubillo said. "There is no record of a formal complaint from Saint Ignatius High School with the City. But we have received over a dozen letters of support for the Outer Sunset Farmers Market from concerned community members as of 7/18."

Jonathan Farrell is a local reporter.

July 2022

Public Pans Proposed Site for Ocean View Library

Public Safety, Environmental Opposition Emerge at Library's June Public Hearing

by Jonathan Farrell

The proposed new building and location for the Oceanview Branch of the San Francisco Public Library as highlighted by Glenn Rogers in The Westside Observer in June was the focus of a public meeting on June 8.

Rogers critiqued the plans that, if approved, will cover around 10,000 square feet at 100 Orizaba Ave. Its floor plan would be built around existing trees. The project will include bicycle parking on-site, with no on-site car parking.

As the Westside Observer learned, Rogers is not alone in his critical point of view.

Officials of SFPL heard more concerns than praises over the proposed plans and location for the new Ocean View Branch at the meeting held that initially intended to provide details of the upcoming plans.

Yet concerns were expressed loud and clear, after a PowerPoint presentation by Public Works architect Andy Spohn, mostly about the traffic and congestion at the intersection where Orizaba meets Brotherhood Way and Sagamore. 

“It seems preposterous to put a library on that section of a congested thoroughfare when there are better places that are safer for pedestrians to use,” one community member said.

Others at the zoom meeting pointed out that although heavily traversed by vehicle traffic, that spot is among the last few open spaces of a “green belt” in the City for people to enjoy. 

It wasn’t clear at Wednesday’s meeting if Spohn’s initial design is for the basics to be on one level, as accessibility is among the guidelines. Or, if there's to be more in the near future? According to DPW’s submitted outline, it says that the design … “would maintain as much of the site’s character as possible while also providing necessary public services and amenities for the area. Both the building and landscape designs respond to and take cues from the existing open space areas and accentuate the significant mature trees on-site. Additionally, the landscape design creates inviting and cohesive outdoor spaces that complement and enrich the building’s program and architecture.”

SF City records show that the property sold in 2008 for $548,000. SFYimby.com reports that construction costs are estimated around $30 million, lasting two years from groundbreaking to completion.

Two community members questioned more than once if the location was “a done deal.”

Spohn said the location “is the most viable.”

After Rogers’ critique appeared — some callers did mention it — skepticism of the plan’s feasibility was frequently aired. Long-standing residents and neighborhood group leaders like Mark Christensen called in to say. “I am very disappointed there wasn’t more outreach and notification about this.”

Speaking on behalf of SFPL, Maureen Singleton who serves as CEO for the SFPL reassured. “The public was notified and invited.”

Transit Planner David Long was present at the zoom meeting. Speaking on behalf of the San Francisco County Transit Authority, he noted. SFCTA would be conducting a full assessment of the traffic situation, but that grant funding for that study/evaluation is to begin in the Fall or possibly closer to the end of the year. While SFCTA is collaborating with SFPL, the traffic and pedestrian safety assessment is a separate project. “The study (is anticipated) to begin in November of 2022 and conclude in October of 2024,” said Long. The branch renovation plans and the SFCTA pedestrian safety study are separate projects.

Both Long and Spohn emphasized the plans were “preliminary” and more community input would be needed.

View the feasibility report on the SFPL website.

Jonathan Farrell is a local reporter.

June 2022

St. Francis Wood: the Garden Residence

The great beginning that ran into World War I

by Jonathan Farrell

No doubt, St. Francis Wood is a gem of a neighborhood adjacent to West Portal. Few people know that it was initially one of 36 planned ‘Garden’ or ‘Residence park neighborhoods’ for San Francisco.

This and other interesting facts are detailed in local historian Richard Brandi’s book entitled “The Garden Neighborhoods of San Francisco.” 

While the ambition and effort was considerable, “there were only about a dozen or so of the 36 that were fully completed,” said Brandi. 

“St. Francis Wood is perhaps the finest example of what was envisioned,” he added. It was fully realized because of the degree of expertise and quality of planning.

“Duncan McDuffie of the Mason-McDuffie firm was the developer of  St Francis Wood, explained Brandi. McDuffie hired architect Henry Gutterson to be his supervising architect for that project. McDuffie then hired the Olmsted Brothers to design streets, landscaping, etc.” 

Borrowed from a grander movement that started in England in the 19th Century, of a ‘Garden City’ or residential living, likely in direct response to the adverse impacts of the industrial revolution, plans took off. 

The concept was basically a detached single-family home. The home had a front yard and entrance set back from the street and a backyard with ample space between each house. 

Considerable swathes of land and plenty of parcel-lot space to accommodate wide streets and curving boulevards is what made these designs possible. 

The death of landowner and one-time mayor Adolf Sutro in 1910 was the opportunity for visionary developers as his heirs were eager to sell land. Sutro had owned much of the Westside of the City, which during his lifetime was considered the “outside lands” on early maps.

“Some of these, like St. Francis Wood had mini-parks and expanded landscaping,” said Brandi “ that made it seem as if each resident was owner of a little estate.” 

Local longtime realtor Barbara Callan knows the St. Francis Wood area well as she noted. “It’s wide lots and curving streets and lush landscaping make the neighborhood a retreat from the stress of urban life.”

“This is what makes St. Francis Wood special and recognizably different from the neighborhoods surrounding it,” added Callan.

From about 1905 to 1924, the concept of a garden neighborhood, or residence park had sprung up. It’s where a planned community design of quality housing (like St. Francis Wood) was in mind, and developers wanted to attract people to buy a distinctive home. 

Despite the efforts and determination, “World War I became an obstacle to the 36 planned garden neighborhoods,” said Woody LaBounty, of SF Heritage.

“Lumber and other materials were difficult to obtain because of the war, he added. And because of this, plans were either stalled, altered, scaled back or in some instances abandoned.”

After World War I ended building resumed. “But the enthusiasm shifted to simply finishing what had been started. Many wanted to get their investment back,” said Brandi.

Explaining further Brandi noted. “The term ‘developer’ back then wasn’t as we refer to as a real estate developer today. Many back then simply dabbled in real estate as investors in attempt to make money.”

Still, the idea of a Garden Neighborhood was appealing. Both LaBounty and Brandi point out the one major unfortunate pitfall of the grand plans.

“On the deeds was the provision-agreement that these homes were not to be sold to anyone who wasn’t white,” said Brandi. That attitude prevailed in practice until the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. 

Easily one can recognize elements of the residence parks concept in some of the tract housing of the 20th Century.

Yet tract housing dwindles in comparison to what McDuffie and others had envisioned. Because of the accomplishment of St. Francis Wood, architect Joseph Leonard and the Urban Realty Improvement Company, aimed high for the building of Ingleside Terraces. “Leonard was determined to compete with St. Francis Wood,” said LaBounty.

“The Garden Neighborhoods of San Francisco,” by Richard Brandi is currently unavailable at Bookshop West Portal at 80 West Portal Avenue. Check back for availability.

Jonathan Farrell is a local reporter.

April 2022

Taraval Merchants Beyond Frustration With MUNI

Failure to Keep Promises Piques Tempers

by Jonathan Farrell

With an estimated cost of $90 million dollars San Francisco Municipal Transportation Authority (MUNI) is anticipating the completion of a portion of the total renovation and upgrade to the L-Taraval trolly line at some point this coming Fall of 2021.

While work has already begun along Taraval in the outer avenues, such as 40th to 45th Avenue and beyond, merchants and residents are troubled.

Speaking on behalf of the People of Parkside/Sunset, Albert Chow, expressed his frustration.

“I don't see the 20-Minute parking areas we had discussed at a site meeting, he said. The streets are dirty, where is the clean up?”

"Why did work crews block the 40th and 41st Avenue intersections completely?" He asked further, as he noted to the Westside Observer that dealing with SFMTA since 2015 with regards to this renovation project has been an uphill battle. 

“Now a pedestrian or a car cannot cross Taraval for three blocks and must resort to crossing under the ‘caution’ tapes over heavy broken rubble, Chow said. How are residents and merchants going to conduct business or even get in and out of their driveways?”

Chow noted that no matter how much the neighborhood tries to negotiate with the various teams working on this project, “they are in essence, deaf,” he said. So far, there have been four project managers. Jay Lu of SFMTA is now shuffled in as project manager and hopefully, our concerns will be heard,” said Chow.

To emphasize how much the construction is creating considerable difficulty, long-time resident Pat Troubetzkoy said. “There are now six inch curbs.”

Ironically what is being constructed as a pedestrian island to help MUNI riders and the disabled gain access to transportation is causing obstacles. “I can’t get in an out of my drive way because of these six inch curbs,” Troubetzkoy said.

Seconding Chow' concerns, Troubetzkoy too has had difficulty communicating with SFMTA. “They just pass it along, said Troubetzkoy. I was referred to one of the project foremen and when I told him about it, he just looked at me as if I was crazy. I pointed out that clearly it is difficult for residents to get in and out of their driveways and that car traffic passing along that portion of Taraval must stop and wait or swerve to avoid the six inch curb.”

Troubetzkoy is very frustrated by the lack of clear communication, as he said. “No one contacted me, or put up a sign to inform me and other residents that this was going to happen. The work started and the six inch curbs just appeared.”

Chow considers the work done so far was poorly planned and haphazardly executed. “The concrete has already been poured, he said. The boarding island curbs in front of driveways are high. 6 inches is too high for people to get in and out. And what about the elderly and disabled?”

He mentioned that there is big signage and barricades at northeast corner of 41st Avenue which “we (SFMTA officials and neighborhood groups) agreed at the site meeting to have cleared out for parking.”

Yet as Chow exclaimed, “I don't see any ‘Open for Business’ signage directing potential customers to that location.” He, like other business owners, fears that this ongoing construction will push customers out. “People will just go elsewhere to shop,” he added.

“I spoke to a few of the merchants on that block," (past 41st Avenue) Chow said, "and their sales have dropped by as much as 75 percent below the already reduced income from operating during Covid. It has occurred quickly, he noted, just on these first few days of this portion of the project.” 

When the Westside Observer reached out to project manager Jay Lu for comment, he in turn referred the inquiry to someone else. No word yet from SFMTA staff regarding the merchants concerns.

“SFMTA needs to act on this now. I am going to bring this to the attention of the City Attorney’s Office,” said Chow. “We want to make sure all this renovation and construction is done correctly,” he said. He, like several others who spoke with the Westside Observer fear that as this project makes its way from the outer avenues of Taraval up to West Portal Avenue, things will only get more complicated.

The public is encouraged to contact SFMTA with their comments and concerns. Contact SFMTA via email at LTaravalProject@SFMTA.com or call 415 646 2382.
To view a map of temporary bus stop relocations citywide, please visit: SFMTA.com/TempStopMap

Jonathan Farrell is a local reporter.

January 2021

Torn Lilacs

Westsider Henry Michalski Recounts SF WWII Saga

by Jonathan Farrell

No doubt the aftermath of WWII brought many changes to the world, but especially here locally as the Westside of the City blossomed in expanding growth.

Part of that growth was due to the wave of G.I.s returning home, eager to raise families and build a future. Yet among the millions eager to rebuild after the war perhaps the most determined among them were those labeled as Displaced People or the “DPs” of Eastern Europe.

Westside resident Henry Michalski has just published a book called “Torn Lilacs.” It’s about his parents who were among the DPs and their horrific yet remarkable journey to San Francisco.
 

While much has been written and made into a movie about the Holocaust, little has been examined in particular about the plight of the DPs after WWII.

Interestingly there was a movie made in the 1950’s called “The House on Telegraph Hill,” in which a widowed Polish woman survives a death camp and finds herself remarried and in a new home and life in San Francisco. 

One of most important things that the movie alludes to and yet skips over is the very vulnerable situation the Jewish people of Poland and the rest of Eastern Europe faced.

The tension between Germany and Russia just before WWII and immediately after had a very negative impact upon the common people. Poland was invaded by Nazi Germany causing hardships. Yet Russian attitudes towards Polish people wasn’t much better, especially for the Jewish Polish people.

Michalski’s parents Fela and Josek fled their little home town of Gostynin in central Poland about 80 miles west of Warsaw.

Confronting insurmountable odds, the two did get to Russia. But eventually as the war continued on they were sent to Siberia. This too is something that most movies allude to but omit details.

Life in Siberia was harsh and likelihood of survival was slim. Both Fela and Josek almost died, not once but twice.

When the war ended they were free to leave. But they had to find their own way back. To escape the harsh weather they made their way to Kazakhstan via river raft. To return to Poland was dangerous because as Michalski noted, “nobody wanted the Jews.”

And to make matters worse the United States Government was hesitant in admitting the Jews of Europe as part of the repatriation of the Displaced People.

As pointed out by historian David Nasaw and others at the US Holocaust Memorial Museum Jewish people were labeled as ‘non-repatriables’ and were then placed in camps according to nationality.

There was an opportunity to join those who were seeking to establish a new Israel in Palestine. But with Arab opposition Josek realized it would be difficult and risky. He and Fela persevered and put their hope in America.

“I was five when we settled in San Francisco in 1950. My assimilation was easy,” said Michalski. 

Extremely grateful for the life that his parents established for him and his siblings in San Francisco, Michalski described a life growing up where “Golden Gate Park and Ocean Beach were practically in our backyard.”

Yet at holiday time and other occasions when families would gather, Michalski noticed something different. “Why didn’t I and my brothers have grandparents, he asked, aunts, uncles and relatives to play with?”

This and the fact that he was born in Kazakhstan, a place far removed from San Francisco had him pondering.

“Over time, I acquired many pieces of my parents’ story, Michalski said. They were unbelievable accounts of depravation and heroism, fantastic events. Yet they all seemed jumbled and disconnected. Early on, he added, my mother designated me the family historian.”

Beginning his career as a teacher at Lincoln High School in The Sunset/Parkside District, Michalski would eventually leave the City to teach in Napa.

It was while he was teaching high school there that Michalski included his parents’ story about their experience escaping the Nazi-occupation that captured their little town Gostynin.

“The students in every history class I taught each semester, when I presented this, it had an impact. ‘This an important story you should write a book,’ students would tell me. So I knew it had to be written,” said Michalski.

And so, in 1976, Henry explained “with a tape recorder in hand, a note book full of questions, and my friend Harris Nussbaum coming along as a witness, we visited my parent’s San Francisco home.”

It took over 40 years to research and pull together all the jumbled bits and pieces of this very personal and complex life story.

When the movie “Schindler’s List” debuted Michalski noted what his mother Fela had said to him.

“You gonna write my story. No one will believe what we went through, she said. But the world has to know. I’m not giving Stephen Spielberg my story. I didn’t suffer to make him rich. You’re gonna tell the story. I will give you all the information.”

Since its release in 2020, “Torn Lilacs” has been getting five-star reviews on GoodReads and Amazon. 

“Torn Lilacs” is now on sale at Green Apple Books in San Francisco. To learn more visit: https://www.greenapplebooks.com/

Jonathan Farrell is a local reporter.

January 2021

Westside People Profile: Alan Wong

by Jonathan Farrell

Alan Wong is a westside San Francisco native and Legislative Aide for District 4 Supervisor Gordon Mar. He has a unique life story that has centered around public service to the community.

As a youth Wong attended Herbert Hoover Middle School and graduated from Abraham Lincoln High School in 2005. Thanks to City College of San Francisco classes he took as a teenager, Wong was able to graduate from University of California, San Diego (UCSD) at age 19 in 2007. Then Wong completed a master’s degree in public affairs at the University of San Francisco. After serving as a union organizer for six years, Wong joined Mar’s team in January 2019 to work on education, labor, and public safety policy.

“I’m so honored to have this opportunity to serve the community I was born and raised in,” Wong said.

As Mar’s legislative aide, Wong has helped draft many significant measures impacting the westside community. But there is more to Wong’s story of public service.

Wong is also a distinguished officer in the Army National Guard. Army National Guard soldiers undergo the same training as full-time soldiers and return to civilian life when their training is completed. Army National Guard soldiers continue training one weekend a month and have a two week annual training each year. The Army National Guard can be activated by the Governor for domestic emergencies and disasters. The Army National Guard can also be activated for federal service.

“I never thought of joining the military,” Wong said.

The unexpected path that would lead him to serve his state and country for over ten years began while he was at UCSD.

In 2007, a New York Times article about Army Colonel David Sutherland and his brigade chaplain, Major Charlie Fenton caught his attention. In the midst of some of the most horrific situations in the Middle East, these military leaders made it their duty regardless of the obstacles to be with soldiers during their last moments in order to tell families back home that they were with their loved one.

“It just struck me,” Wong said. “I felt it was part of my civic duty to serve. So many Americans were making personal sacrifices. So I stepped up and joined.”

Wong served as an enlisted Army National Guard soldier for eight years and was part of the Judge Advocate General Corps (JAG), serving his country in the military’s legal system utilizing his paralegal expertise.

When the opportunity to become an officer became available, Wong was accepted into the Army Officer Candidate School at Fort Benning, GA. Wong was commissioned as a second lieutenant in 2017 and finished his military police leadership course in 2018.

Wong noted that the training was intense.

“We were placed in various leadership scenarios where maintaining order amid a crisis was critical,” he said.

Wong described the most challenging part of his training and military exercises: “For five consecutive training days, having to endure sleep deprivation, write out 20 to 30 pages of an operation plan each night, and then be prepared to brief each plan the following day.”

While the training was grueling, Wong said it was “empowering because we all had to work as a team and trust one another through difficult situations.”

Shortly after finishing his officer leadership training, Wong was activated by the state of California for the Tubbs Fire emergency in 2017.

“I was called upon by my unit, told it was an emergency, and to immediately pack my gear and go,” he said.

For three weeks, Wong was placed in charge of soldiers providing security and support at the Santa Rosa Fairgrounds evacuees’ center.

A year later, Wong was activated for the Camp Fire in Paradise. Wong was in battalion operations and was responsible for coordinating troops supporting the State Office of Emergency Services and Butte County Sheriff’s Department. Then in 2019, Wong was again activated for the Kincade Fire in Geyserville and surrounding areas of Sonoma County.

Wong said the most fulfilling moment of his service was during the Camp Fire when a soldier and his family had been evacuated from their home because their house was at the edge of the fire line. The anxious family did not know whether their home had burned down, so Wong helped the distraught soldier go to his home and discover that it had been saved.

“The soldier said that it was the kindest act anybody had ever done for him,” Wong said. “I’m glad I was able to provide that soldier with care and to help somebody in need.”

After witnessing the impact of wildfires across communities in California, he is committed to helping the Sunset District and the entire City be prepared for a major disaster.

“Last year, while in Mar’s office, I worked on legislation to expedite plans for building the Emergency Firefighting Water System (EFWS) into the Sunset and other westside neighborhoods,” Wong said. “It is absolutely essential to get this system put into place. I witnessed a major fire and I don’t ever want that to happen to my neighborhood.”

In addition to his public safety work in Mar’s office, Wong has advanced significant pieces of city legislation and programs to improve public education and City College services, including securing Free City College for a decade and bringing City College to the westside.

“Alan helped draft and advance three legislative items at city hall to strengthen and secure the Free City College program for the next decade,” said School Board Commissioner Jenny Lam. “Alan was key in bringing Free City stakeholders together and ultimately, passing the legislation.”

Wong has also worked to bring City College resources into the westside. In February of last year, Mar held a town hall meeting at A.P. Giannini Middle School to discuss bringing a City College location to the westside. The response was positive. College Board Trustee Ivy Lee was one of the town hall speakers and stated that the idea of having City College establish a presence in the westside would benefit the community and strengthen educational goals for the future. Mar utilized this and held similar meetings to gather information from surveys and get public feedback.

“I helped organize those town hall meetings,” Wong said, “After receiving more than 400 surveys, I worked with City College, SFUSD, Wah Mei School, and others to bring City College to the Sunset and helped enroll more than 100 students.”

City College Sunset opened its doors on Jan. 13 with its first group of students in ESL, older adult, child development, and high school dual enrollment classes.

This year, as City College of San Francisco has had to reduce and restructure its programs due to changes in the state funding formula and reduced enrollment, Wong is working on legislation dubbed the Community Higher Education Fund (CHEF) to provide city support to City College so the school can maintain its community-serving workforce development, lifelong learning, and enrichment programs.

Wong told the Westside Observer he will be running for the City College Board of Trustees in the November 2020 election and has been endorsed by many well-known elected officials, including State Treasurer Fiona Ma, State Assembymember Phil Ting, Sheriff Paul Miyamoto, and Mar.

“I want to bring strong fiscal oversight and transparency to the college,” said Wong. “We also need to ensure that the college can continue to provide opportunities for working and immigrant families like my own.”

“Alan worked with City College, Wah Mei School, and the San Francisco Unified School District to bring City College Sunset to the neighborhood,” said Mar. “Alan’s experience in successful government leadership, his strong ties to the San Francisco educational community, and his belief in City College’s mission to serve students, makes him the right choice for college board.”

37th Great Dickens Fair! • Sat-Sun Nov 23-Dec 23 Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Ave.

A Royal Visit—Always a Crowd-pleaser.Photo Philip Pavliger

Often described as “a living Victorian Christmas card,” the Dickens Fair prides itself on providing a unique experience of “live-immersion theatre.” Players/cast, crew and even some vendors all work to make one feel as if they have stepped back in time to 19th Century London – the London, England of Dickens’ time.

This year marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of Queen Victoria. And, while historians note the long-reigning monarch was rather reserved in dealing with others, she did in her own way promote the celebration of Christmas.

It was also during her reign that some of the post-profound literary works were produced. Dickens was one among many during the era that provided readers with a prolific array of novels, short stories and essays. Some of which, like A Christmas Carol gave particular “arch-types” of human characters and cultural phrases and references that are still in use today, and concepts of characters like the miserly Scrooge, who was so stingy with his money that he would not let his devoted employee Bob Cratchit have more coal for the furnace to warm the office.

Elements of A Christmas Carol are found in just about every one of Dickens’ novels. Dickens was able to capture the impact the Industrial Revolution had upon the common people, making Britain powerful, and Queen Victoria the center of that power. She became the epitome of what correct society should be. And, like it or not, that made an impression.

Because of her love for Prince Albert, who was German, the tree during Christmas was something Queen Victoria promoted. The Christmas tree can be traced to Germany and Protestant religious reformer Martin Luther in the 16th Century. German immigrants brought this custom of a holiday tree with them as they settled in America.

But it was Queen Victoria, and in a way Charles Dickens through his famous story, that helped make the celebration of Christmas what it is today. The spirit of generosity, the concern for the less fortunate, and the ability to foster family and community bonds is what makes A Christmas Carol the beloved holiday story it is.

Bookshop Westportal has plenty of copies of the beloved novel for those who would like to brush up and prepare for the annual Christmas Faire.

The Great Dickens Christmas Faire begins Nov. 23 and continues for five consecutive weekends, concluding on Dec. 22. For more details visit the web site at: dickensfair.com

November 2019

Supervisor Mar Pushes SFPD for Better Crime Stats

by Jonathan Farrell

Instances of certain crimes increasing year over year is in conflict with SFPD’s public statements claiming these crimes have declined, according a Sept. 9 press release from Supervisor Gordon Mar’s office.

“They did give us data for the past six years,” said legislative aide Alan Wong, when he spoke with the Westside Observer. The Supervisor had initially requested crime stats going back 10 years. Public Information Office’s Joseph Tomlinson noted “Law enforcement agencies do not study general populations based on age, race, sex, socio-economic position, type of occupation, etc. SFPD is not Pew Research Center or US Census Bureau. SFPD publicly reports on crimes (basically) what are committed and where.”

Capt. Falvey had been quoted in the news as saying that his general crime unit statistics showed a 10 percent drop in home invasion and burglary between 2015 and 2018. Supervisor Mar disagreed based on information his office had gathered.

Mar’s staff collected info on over 125 burglaries in 2018, with as many as 23-29 a month in the Sunset District alone. In his efforts to work with SFPD, Mar’s request for more specific data prompted a series of public hearings and town halls, which caught the attention of the Sunset Beacon. This was only “a first step” to address the issue of increased burglaries and incidents of what he called “porch piracies.”

In one testimony at the hearing, long-time Sunset District resident, Sunny Chan said that her 90-year-old mother’s home-delivered meals were being stolen. Noting Supervisor Mar’s concern, Officer Tomlinson said, “The department does not have evidence that supports the feeling that the Chinese community is being targeted in residential crimes like package theft, home burglary, home robbery or ‘hot prowls.’ Supervisor Mar’s district, however, is a residential area with many single-family homes which makes it attractive to home burglars.”

“According to US Census Data,” he said, “84 percent of Taraval District households are either Asian, Pacific Islander or White. Which would mean that it is proportional to have over 50 percent of the victims of residential crimes (hot prowls, home burglaries, home robberies) in the Taraval District involve Asian, Pacific Islander or White households. Of course the goal of SFPD is for all residents to feel safe and to have no victims of residential crimes.”

At the Supervisors’ hearing on April 25, burglaries and breaking and entering crimes impacted every ethnicity, not only Asian/Chinese residents.

Others in the community besides long-time resident Sunny Chan have been victims of theft and insidious burglaries. General contractor Charlie Vaughan of Buteo Builders and some of his crew said that he and his crew have been victims of repeated thefts. Some of the thefts resulted in the loss of tools and equipment over the past year costing up to $80,000. He noted that while empathetic, few SFPD investigators followed up. Taking initiative, Vaughan said he and his crew provided surveillance video of a perpetrator’s car and license plate, and at one point followed a suspect-perpetrator to what Vaughan presumed was a hangout of thieves near the Caltrans station at 4th Street, downtown. “It seems there is a head to this snake (of burglary cases)…” said Vaughan, but catching and prosecuting culprits should not be the job of ordinary citizens.

The fear that victims are being ignored and that possible hate crimes have occurred pops up several times in the hearing. According to Officer Tomlinson, “Law Enforcement agencies pursue suspects and crime trends related to those suspects. SFPD is driven by crime patterns and building strategies related to those crime patterns,” Tomlinson said. “Law Enforcement’s primary concern is around the suspects committing crimes. While basic victim demographic information may currently be captured in incident reports, there is no crime enforcement reason to create and publish reports around that data.”

“Hate Crimes are not separate, distinct crimes, but rather traditional offenses motivated by offender’s bias,” according to the Criminal Justice Information Services Division UCR Hate Crime Data Collection Manual. Hate crime is an enhancement to a crime and is not considered a crime that the SFPD online Dashboards report. SFPD reports hate crimes to the FBI via Uniform Crime Reports annual reporting (delegated by the Attorney General).”

Mar’s hearing in highlighted an increase in blatant burglaries in the Avenues. He mentioned that increased home delivery and online shopping, has also increased theft from porches, doorsteps and mailboxes. Better technology, tracking and statistics of these incidents will bring culprits to justice, Mar observed. Supervisor Mar is currently drafting legislation to require SFPD to report these statistics annually with additional categories, including race, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, disability status, and religious preference, and has also funded new programs to expand security cameras and safe package delivery. “Better data means better strategies. I’m concerned it took so long for us to get this data, and that it doesn’t seem to match what SFPD has been saying. Now that we have it, we need to keep tracking these numbers going forward, and work together and in solidarity with all the communities impacted by crime, including and especially the African American community,” said Mar.

Mar will continue to meet with stakeholders in the community for feedback on what they would like SFPD to provide in their crime statistics data.“At this point a draft of the proposed legislation could be finalized sometime in November,” Wong said.

Jonathan Farrell is a local reporter.

October 2019

Victim Demographics Missing from Crime Statistics

by Jonathan Farrell

District 4 Supervisor Gordon Mar’s office discovered some unsettling details about the crime statistics made available by the San Francisco Police Dept. There aren’t any. Or at least very few. That is what the Westside Observer learned when speaking with Edward Wright, a legislative aide in Supervisor Mar’s office: “We are alarmed because the data just isn’t there.” Responding to residents’ concerns about being targeted, Mar wanted his office to gain some insight by looking more closely at facts, more specifically in the outline of statistics through police reports, etc.

“In March, I requested that SFPD provide data on victim demographics at a hearing I called in response to a series of home invasion robberies targeting Chinese families in the Sunset District and other neighborhoods,” said Mar. “Four months later, Chinese residents and businesses have been victims of many more high-profile violent crimes. Yet I still haven’t received the information I requested. When we know better, we do better, and it is deeply frustrating that SFPD has not already provided this basic information that can help ensure all communities are safe.”

This concern Mar reiterated at Town Hall meetings, and at a hearing back in April with the Board of Supervisors.

Capt. Tim Falvey told the press “statistics showed a 10 percent drop between 2015 and 2018 in home invasion property crimes.” This is a category that includes burglary, robbery and what he described as “hot prowls” where the suspect enters an occupied residence.

But this did not make sense to Mar. Because of the incident of repeated burglaries out in the Avenues he questions SFPD’s accuracy.

Yet, Falvey believes his work is deterring crime as he has more than 20 years in law enforcement with the SFPD. As commanding officer of the Tactical Company, Falvey oversees the Tactical Unit (SWAT Team), Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit (Bomb Squad), Hondas, Tactical Canines, Mounted Unit, Specialist Team and the Hostage and Crisis Negotiation Team. As commander of the Tactical Company, Falvey oversees the unit’s critical support to patrol officers as it responds to crises such as hostage rescue operations, and assists with security during planned and unplanned demonstrations.

“I think that (the 10 percent drop in home invasion) is a significant improvement and reinforces that some of the things we are doing in the burglary unit and robbery unit are working,” Falvey said.

According to information released to the press and posted on the SFPD website, officers deterred a burglary in process on July 22 along the 1500 block of 44th Avenue. Arresting three young men in their 20’s, officers at the scene took them to County Jail.

Even with a website and regular news releases, the information readily available to the public, according to Mar, is lacking. Wright noted that when fellow staff member in Mar’s office, Alan Wong, met with SFPD some info was given. “But it was not what we requested,” said Wright. When pressed further, Wright was not able say particularly what discrepancy was, only that it wasn’t enough.

If it has to do with victims and other pertinent info, it seems the data is lacking. When searching through the SFPD web site, the grid and graph formats only list statistics of the last five years. Mar wants to see details from at least 10 years or more.

Most of what is presented is static and difficult to read. It is difficult to translate what the numbers and pie-charts signify. Also, several of the references on the SFPD website provide links to other websites. It appears SFPD is relying on other parties/vendors to provide their detailed information to the public, such as through DataSF.org, and GovQA, a public sector compliance sector outreach headquartered in Woodridge, IL.

From a 21st Century point of view where forensic science and information is growing in leaps and bounds, the lack of specific data is perplexing. Supervisor Mar notes the concern is growing.

“Hate-motivated crimes,” Mar said, “overall have surged in the past few years, increasing across the nation for three consecutive years from 2014-2017 according to the FBI. In San Francisco, the surge has been especially dramatic, increasing by 61% from 2017 to 2018.”

Navigating and scrolling through the SFPD web site there is a “crime data dashboard.” But on that web page there is no mention of “Hate Crimes.” It only gives a tally of the number of robberies, assaults, burglaries, etc. Statistics do not include unfounded incidents nor the number of victims. There is no mention of any particular social demographics or location, other than the police station from which the statistical numbers were gathered. The missing info concerning victims pushed Mar and his office into action.

Supervisor Mar is working with the Board of Supervisors and The City Attorney’s Office to draft legislation requiring SFPD to track and report demographic information of crime victims through the District Attorney’s office, in direct response to the concerns raised at Mar’s Town Hall meetings, and formal hearing by Sunset residents.

Mar aims to have the legislative draft completed and introduced by September. If approved and implemented, Mar’s legislation will help the City further identify trends in crimes against vulnerable communities. This includes those trends that may not rise to the legal definition of a hate crime.

Jonathan Farrell is a local San Francisco reporter.

SEPTEMBER 2019

The boundaries of the ranch were 16th Avenue to 17th Avenue, between Moraga and Noriega Streets. You can also clearly see GG Park. That may be the Cliff House in the distance on the right. Photo: Greg Garr

Larsen Park, AKA Larsen Chicken Ranch, AKA Jet Park

by Jonathan Farrell

Driving along 19th Avenue there is that little park named for Carl Larsen that some locals still refer to as ‘Jet Plane Park’ at the intersection with Vicente. It is hard to fathom amid such busy commuter traffic that used to be part of a chicken ranch.

“Larsen Park is all that remains of that ranch,” said local historian Lorri Ungaretti.  She gave a lecture at the public library on the little-known history of life ‘out in the Avenues’ and Parkside area this past March 9.

“Outside Lands” as it was known on maps in the 1800s then was considered west of the City. It was mostly sand dunes. Few people lived out there. 

Larsen Park got its nickname of ‘Jet Plane Park’ because from the 1950s to the early 1990s three retired Navy jets were used (simultaneously) as part of the playground equipment, which could be seen when driving along 19th Avenue.

Larsen donated that parcel of land to the City in 1926. After WWII, the use of an old jet plane as something to play on was what made Larsen Park unique. The jet plane is gone due to safety concerns and the cultural shifts and generational changes of our times.

Workers at the Larsen Chicken Ranch - Courtesy of the Millhollon collection

At the turn of the 20th Century, before the 1906 Earthquake, Carl Larsen, a carpenter and rancher supplied fresh eggs and other staples to the Tivoli Restaurant downtown, which Larsen also owned. “It was open 24 hours a day,” when the ‘Barbary Coast’ was host to crowds of people seeking all night entertainment. “His fresh eggs would be delivered every morning right from the ranch, so patrons could have breakfast,” said Ungaretti.

Ungaretti, who lived and grew up right across the street from Lincoln High School didn’t really know all the intricate details of the area until she began doing research and talking to people. “I consider the people who lived out here pioneers,” she said.

“What most people don’t understand," said Ungaretti, "is that the ‘Outside Lands’ – (that is everything West of downtown) was not part of the City. It took a long time and a lot of effort for it to be officially included. Much of the Westside of San Francisco was just ignored,” said Ungaretti, “That’s why there was not much written down about the area until recently.” She sees the Westside as part of a “quiet evolution” – a history just as important as the Gold Rush.

Her 2012 book Stories in The Sand was a result of previous books that she put together for Arcadia Publishing. All of the books Ungaretti has written so far are the result of what she discovered about the Sunset, Parkside, West Portal and Richmond Districts.

In the early 2000s when Ungaretti began providing walking tours she was not able to find much. She quickly realized writing and documenting would be part of her work.

Emphasizing that much of the City away from downtown was overlooked by tourist maps, guidebooks and travel magazines, “It is safe to say that Lorri is known for being a trusted chronicler & champion of the western neighborhoods,” said Sunset Branch Librarian Robert Crabill, of the San Francisco Public Library. He pointed out that her longtime, determined pursuit of facts and photos, interviews with older residents, and other efforts add to the trove of information she has already shared with the public.

“I think it is interesting also," said Crabill, "that in her dedication to telling the whole story, Lorri has also brought to light the unpleasant history of racism in housing sales,” (especially ‘out in the Avenues’ and other districts) in the Westside of the City (before and right after WWII). “In Chapter 8 of her 2012 book Stories in the Sand, Crabill mentioned how her book "held nothing back on the restrictive covenants & deed restrictions that explicitly banned purchases and rentals of homes by people of African or Chinese descent or to Jews.”

With the help of non-profits like SPEAK, Parents Education Network, the Western Neighborhoods Project and others in the community, Ungaretti was most appreciative. “I got a grant from SPEAK (the Sunset Parkside Education and Action Committee) to help pay for photo permissions for two of my Arcadia books.”

Without question, since the dot-com boom of the 1990’s, the Westside of the City has undergone a transformation.

Still, Ungaretti sees it is important to mention that without the generosity of pioneers like Larson, Rosalie Meyer Stern – (the widow of Sigmund Stern of Stern Grove), Helene Strybing, (who donated Strybing Arboretum) Adolph Sutro (of Sutro Baths fame), Herbert Fleishhacker who helped establish the San Francisco Zoo and others, much of what residents enjoy about the Parkside, West Portal, Sunset and Richmond Districts today would not be here.

To learn more about Lorri Ungaretti and her history work visit outsidelands.org/streetwise-ungaretti.php

Jonathan Farrel is a local SF reporter

April 2019

Advocates demand better treatment of pedestrians

by Jonathan Farrell

As lives get busier and more distracted with tech gadgets, driving skills are at risk. How many times have you as a driver been in such a hurry that you forgot to slow down at an intersection? Or if you are on foot and about to step out into a cross walk, how many times have you noticed the cars not exactly coming to a complete stop?

Well, this is an issue one of growing concern for advocates like Cathy DeLuca, policy & program director at Walk San Francisco. She contacted this reporter to say she was very disappointed that her letter to the San Francisco Chronicle was not published.

She wrote the letter to the editor on May 1 to denounce the way in which the newspaper reported the tragic incident of a pedestrian who was killed while crossing 19th Ave near Winston, not far from Stonestown Mall.

The brief report which appeared in The Chronicle on April 30, did not mention the man's name, only that he was "a Jaywalker" who according the San Francisco Police Dept report ignored a red light and proceeded to cross, in the wee hours of the morning on Saturday April 28; even though the oncoming vehicle had "a solid green light."

The fact that the newspaper report simply refereed to the pedestrian as "an unidentified man," only made DeLuca more determined to raise awareness of this critical problem which she sees as an epidemic. It is a problem not only in San Francisco but in many places.

Working with the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Authority and other advocacy groups like San Francisco Families For Safe Streets, Deluca wants everyone to be safe in our world-class city. Yet DeLuca feels that the press has a responsibility not to criminalize the victim, with vague reporting and emphasizing he was "a Jaywalker." With the SFMTA working to improve conditions for both pedestrians and commuters, DeLuca believes more cooperation needs to be fostered to improve the safety of all on the streets of the City of St. Francis - this includes the media.

First and foremost the unidentified man's name was Elijah Reed. "The headline — Jaywalker killed in San Francisco in early morning collision, police say' — labels the victim a criminal. Not a person," said DeLuca.

She pointed out that he was someone crossing one of the most dangerous streets in San Francisco. "The message (from the newspaper) is that he crossed at the wrong time, so it's his fault he died."

"We're appalled, she said to the SF Chronicle editor, by how you wrote about a man killed while walking on 19th Avenue."

Questioning the quality of the reporting, DeLuca said. "We don't even know if that's what happened. Early police reports are often inaccurate."

What makes her letter to the editor at The Chronicle even more poignant is the fact that there is no mention of the driver as to an identity, in the Chronicle's April 30 article. Or if any investigation was done as to the conditions of the driver, only that the police report said the oncoming vehicle had "a solid green light."

Later details about Reed were varied. The initial SF Chronicle said he was 40. But later reports like in SF Weekly said he was age 34 and another said he was 32. To add more sorrow to this incident, later reports said that SF Police determined Reed was within the cross walk.

As the City's most recognizable and respected newspaper, DeLuca strongly believes The Chronicle could have done better, especially as news of the tragic incident was first released. She cited that Columbia School of Journalism's Columbia Journalism Review has rules on how collisions are reported. Rule 1 avoid blaming the pedestrian, even if it looks as if it might be so, there is always more to the story.

The families and friends of the victims are grieving, taking little care to report the facts in better detail causes more suffering. "Instead of blaming people for getting killed, said DeLuca, let's talk about how to save their lives."

DeLuca believes the tragedy of Elijah Reed's death could have been avoided.

Jonathan Farrell is a San Francisco free lance reporter. Feedback: jonathan@westsideobserver.com

June 2018

This is the SF Chronicle article DeLuca is referring to in her statements. See link:

https://www.sfgate.com/crime/article/Jaywalker-killed-in-San-Francisco-in-early-12875480.php?utm_source=Master+List&utm_campaign=5748579ce1-eNewsletter_2018_05_17&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_727abdae54-5748579ce1-34545181

Smash-&-Grabs Draw Westside Ire

Hoping to cut down on car break-ins, the City recently spent $9000 to install 30 signs around town, including. this one at the stairs in Golden Gate Heights. Tourists often aren't aware of the problem residents know well. We'll soon know how effective they are.

by Jonathan Farrell

The neighborhood group Stop Crime SF brought into focus the increase in "smash and grab" car break-ins at a meeting on January 10 hosted by Sunset Heights Association of Responsible People. Former San Francisco Police Chief Anthony Ribera was speaker.

According to the San Francisco Chronicle, City 911 dispatch statistics show that over 25 thousand calls came in regarding car break in incidents. And, that statistic was for the first six months of 2017.

Ribera said it's more like 30,000 break-ins because many go unreported. Occurring at epidemic levels, many people have been victimized several times.

Stop Crime SF board member, Joel Engardio, noted that "West Portal area suffers from the epidemic of car break-ins that many neighborhoods face," he said to the Westside Observer after the meeting.

The increase, Ribera said, is group-orientated. "It can be a small group of two or three, yet it is a collective - like a gang." A Civil Grand Jury report in 2016 concluded that a majority of auto burglaries are committed by professional criminals. They are organized into work groups, like modern-day raiding parties. The crime itself is usually carried out in less than a minute; one suspect keeps a lookout, another smashes the car window and grabs.

Ribera believes, that crime can be combated effectively if citizens band together and fight back. "Taking the time to follow up and file a report is important - it helps law enforcement," he said. Persistence is key.

Even with law enforcement keeping up the pace, arresting culprits, etc. the rate of recidivism is still high. The community needs to pay close attention. "We need our correctional system to be more effective in rehabilitating offenders," said Ribera.

But as Engardio pointed out, "West Portal has also been traumatized by some heinous acts over the past year or two. This includes an attempted kidnapping of a teenage girl from the sidewalk back in March of 2017. And this past summer, a woman was attacked with a hammer walking home from the West Portal MUNI station.

"There have also been home break-ins. Residents are rightfully scared and want action taken to pursue, arrest and prosecute criminals. Stop Crime SF is proud to partner with the Greater West Portal Neighborhood Association."

"Stop Crime SF was able to combat attacks on tourists. Last year as one example, we helped pass two laws involving rental car companies," Engardio said. Rental car companies now must warn customers to not leave valuables in car. And now, rental car companies must eliminate advertising and prominent bar codes on the car that make it a vulnerable target.

Ribera, Engardio, SHARP and others encourage residents to participate in police-community outreach and never under-estimate the empowerment it can provide in combating crime. To learn more about community involvement to fight crime visit stopcrimesf.com

Jonathan Farrell is a local reporter.

February 2018

Local Pulitzer Prize Winning Author

Matt Richtel discusses his life and work at Bookshop West Portal

by Johathan Farrell

It is not every town or neighborhood that has a Pulitzer-prizing winning author in its midst. But our West Portal district does. And, while journalist and author Matt Richtel etches out the angles of complexities of technology and contemporary issues he delights in the everyday life of the neighborhood.

When this reporter asked him his thoughts on the honor of being awarded a Pulitzer Prize he said. "I no longer get any more milage with it with my wife. I still have to do chores around the house," he laughed.

But joking aside, Richtel sees it as an honor, especially being awarded for important work. In 2010 his NY Times series on the dangers of texting and driving "put the issue on the map," he said. "It is very gratifying."

That, then became the basis for the non-fiction book, A Deadly Wandering, which has since gone into its 12th printing, and besides being a NY Times Bestseller, it continues to be held in esteem; it is included on the 'required reading' lists of many schools and colleges. Born in L.A. but raised in Colorado, Richtel got his Bachelor's from U.C. Berkeley, then transferred to Columbia School of Journalism where he secured his MS. He joined the staff of the NY Times in 2000 after working as a reporter covering Palo Alto and the Silicon Valley and its tech industry for The Peninsula Times Tribune and then for the Oakland Tribune.

Even with this stellar journalistic and literary distinction, Richtel is not one to rest on his laurels, no matter how comfortable or prestigious. His current novel Dead on Arrival which was featured at Bookshop West Portal on August 22, is already being heralded by critics, comparing it to a Michael Crichton thriller. Yes, it is set in San Francisco with a connection to Colorado, among other things.

When not writing about tech, he is delving into such complicated subjects as immunology and cancer. But beneath the serious subject writer, and the mystery-thriller genre author, he has a fun-loving humorous side. "I like to write songs," said Richtel. And if that were not enough creative outlet, he has also been the creative force behind a syndicated comic strip called Rudy Park.

He enjoys tennis and basketball when not at the computer. And, Richtel considers technology something exciting — not something to be feared, a marvel as well as a great tool. "It is because of technology that I am able to write for the NY Times with my bosses in New York on the East Coast while I get to live here in San Francisco. Telecommuting makes that possible," he said.

Yet, he cautions that it is the pace of change, due to technology, that contributes to humanity's "blind-spot." Civilization over the eons has established many building blocks. "What's different about now is that knowledge (and data) is building on itself. As society changes we are introducing things that are a mismatch with us as humans." Things like 'multi-tasking.' "Our human brains just are not built that way, despite the popularity of the concept." Hence the closer look at the dangers of texting while driving. And hypocricy, the other aspect that technology seems to bring out, more these days according to Richtel, "It is a major blind-spot. Technology can also make us both smart and lazy," he said. Optimistically, the tech tools we have today can help humanity look at its blind spots. "Take advantage of technology but don't let it distract you," he said.

Perhaps it is the balance that he strives to achieve which helps him be so successful at what he does. His wife Meredith, and his two children are the anchors in his life and San Francisco is the harbor.

Richtel savors the small-town like atmosphere of West Portal. "I enjoy hanging out at Greenhouse Cafe on West Portal Ave, it is where I do some of my writing," he said. Richtel is in good company there, it is were locals go to relax, study and indulge in the 'Nutella Latte.' And, naturally his most favorite spot on West Portal Ave is Bookshop West Portal.

To obtain a copy of author-journalist Matt Richtel's book 'Dead on Arrival' visit Bookshop West Portal web site at: www.bookshopwestportal.com, and check out the calendar in the Westside Observer for their upcoming author events.

Jonathan Farrell is a local journalist.

September 2017

Local Author Martha Conway

by Jonathan Farrell

San Francisco-based author Martha Conway read from her historical novel, The Underground River, on June 20 at Bookshop West Portal that Tuesday evening. The enthralled audience was impressed. This reporter talked to her after the gathering.

“With this third historical-mystery novel, are you secure in your niche as a writer?” I asked her because Thieving Forest was a departure from what she had initially been accustomed to, a mystery ‘whodunit’ story. Yet with Thieving Forest, Conway surprised everyone, including herself, as her work is emerging, prolifically, on a path all her own. I also wanted to know if she had an inkling towards writing in another genre. Here is what she shared with me.

She replied, “I’ve gone from writing mystery to historical mystery to historical fiction, and so I’m afraid to say I will stay within any one genre. But I love historical fiction. Use of historical genres are more and more fluid, so people like me can explore different ways of telling a story without getting penalized. It’s a great time for genre-bending fiction.”

In Underground River the year is 1838, “so there is no war going on, said Conway. But there is a lot of tension between the North and the South. The Ohio River, which is the natural division between the North and the South, is a common place for runaway slaves to cross over to get to freedom.”

“I approached this novel thinking, how does a person go from being a bystander in a political movement like abolitionism to being an active participant? This question is relevant for us today,” she added.

Fellow writer Carole Bumpus, who also wrote a historical novel, applauded Conway and is eager to read Underground River. Bumpus shared her thoughts about using history to tell a story. “(Historical) facts give you structure, but also can provide pitfalls if you don’t have your facts accurate! Readers will not continue to read if they feel you have lied to them! This form of story-telling can be tricky, but also worth the challenge!”

The genre of historical fiction is something that has been going on for centuries, and is something that has been used throughout world literature. Historians cite the ancient epic The Iliad as one of many examples. They also point out that use of history to form a novel is not exclusive to our Western culture. The Tale of the Genji and Romance of The Three Kingdoms are ancient stories from Asia which provide a glimpse of life during various dynasties and eras from the 12th to the 16th Century.

Conway’s confidence and self-assuredness is undeniable, and it has been wonderful to recognize the creative changes that have occurred over the years as she has progressed and grown stronger in her writing. Yet naturally I wanted to ask...was it any easier/harder this third time? “Every novel is hard in a different way, Conway said. You think you learn the tools, and then find that with your next novel you need different tools. It keeps the process interesting.”

What did she see as the most important challenge she faced putting this novel together?

“Trying to understand how people could rationalize slavery. That was hard for me to imagine,” she said.

Any similarities with the three that she might see? “They all feature strong female protagonists who get the job done,” she said. Conway, even with that very first mystery story, 12 Bliss Street, has always had a deep and profound sense of what women bring to any situation.

I told her I saw her ability to bring up the subject of cultural/ethnic diversity within common ground. The Los Angeles Times mentioned her latest novel and its subject, the Underground Railroad was a “powerful symbol of resistance.” It is a subject that can be examined even more closely than ever before, especially now in this age of information and furthering forensic technology.

Conway said, “Yes, I’m very interested in how characters in different cultures or ethnicities relate to each other. The search for the common ground is key, This isn’t always possible. I want to show all sorts of interactions, even the failures.”

Are you more confident to write about these things now than when you began with Thieving Forest? “Yes,” she said, and by the reviews (some describing it as “a page-turner”) her audience will only grow, eager to read what more she has in store.

Bookshop West Portal is pleased with Conway’s work, as it has been selling and attracting people to reading/book signing events. Located on West Portal Avenue at the very heart of San Francisco’s West Portal neighborhood, it is among the few but vital book stores that have survived the impact of the digital/tech revolution.

Will she do a bit of genre-bending? Her readers and I among them are eager to find out. To learn more about author Martha Conway and her latest novel Underground River, visit her web site - www.marthaconway.com

Jonathan Farrell is a local journalist

July / August 2017

The Dance from the Music Hall revue at Mad Sal's Alehouse. Photo: MarkEYE

Dickens Never Fails at Christmas

By Jonathan Farrell

Women doing business and being their own proprietors is routine these days. But over a century ago, this was an exception, especially in Victorian England. Yet even with social restrictions and a heavy caste system, there were some who managed quite well, among them Mad Sal of Mad Sal's Dockside Alehouse at the annual Great Dickens Christmas Fair in the Cow Palace beginning on November 19.

While there is no actual character in any of Charles Dickens' stories named Mad Sal, the likelihood of someone who fits her type of character would have been around in Dickens' time.

MAD SAL'S DOCKSIDE ALE HOUSE, where Pipe & Bowl Morris perform lusty traditional dances celebrating beer, flirting, and the pleasures of country life. Photo: MarkEYE

Executive Director of the Dickens Fair, Kevin Patterson, took a moment to explain how Mad Sal came into being. "The character of Mad Sal was created by my father, Ron Patterson. Ron as co-founder of the Dickens Fair was an amazing art director as well as impresario. He and my mother Phyllis Patterson did a lot of work to make the experience of a Dickens type of Christmas come to life, very much like a living Victorian Christmas card. And in researching Victorian London, Ron found a drawing of a female innkeeper with serious attitude."

So my Dad said Patterson and lead actress and improvisational diva, Judy Kory, took this vintage lithograph he had found and invented the character of Mad Sal. In keeping with the art form of environmental theatre unique to the Dickens Fair, Judy evolved the character over the next five years." He noted that a total of six actresses have portrayed Mad Sal over the 34 seasons of the Dickens Fair.

Curious to know the secret to Mad Sal's longevity, this reporter asked, what is this New Show at Sal's that everyone's talking about? What is the basis of the show? Is it based upon actual show formats of Dickens' time or an approximation thereof?

"Among the many popular shows to have appeared on Sal's stage over the years" said Patterson, "is perhaps the Music Hall. As you know, Music Hall is a type of British theatrical entertainment that first became popular in the early Victorian era circa 1850. It involved a mixture of popular songs, comedy, and variety entertainment," he said.

"And this year, The All New Mad Sal's Dockside Alehouse Music Hall Review featuring Le Can Can Bijou, with its new songs (including two never before heard anywhere) has a completely new cast. Comedic characters, singers, dancers and a bit of acrobatics, all performed by enthusiastic and talented performers – not to mention a surprisingly touching 'through line' he said, that -promises to be even better than ever!"

Violinist, Cat Taylor always wows Photo: MarkEYE

Visitors to The Dockside Alehouse at the Dickens Fair will see that it is the best, most popular bar in all of Dickens' London, fully recreated by the cast and crew of the Fair and Red Barn Productions at the Cow Palace.

"Yet, as it is in many of Dickens' stories a popular spot like The Dockside Alehouse happens to be located in the worst, most dangerous part of London" said Patterson. "And maybe that, for the wealthy who flock to it,is part of the charm. It isn't a place where one can openly 'hire' the services of a female 'companion', or engage in highly illegal opium smuggling, or a place where the shadiest and most dangerous of Dickens' characters occasionally gather to plot their dangerous and shady schemes. No, for all intents and purposes, Sal's is the go to place for drinking, singing and merriment (much like the Oom-pah-pah scene in the movie musical Oliver). But not too far off in its shadows, dark things continue to occur."

"Sal is by far the loudest, he said, most colorful, most interesting, not to mention powerful and important person in the best, most popular bar in all of London."

The annual Great Dickens Christmas Fair starts Nov 19 and continues for five consecutive weekends which includes the Friday after Thanksgiving; and then ends on Dec. 18. Tickets are now on sale. Visit the Dickens Christmas Fair web site for more details at: dickensfair.com

Jonathan Farrell is a San Francisco free lance reporter. Feedback: jonathan@westsideobserver.com

November 2016

Derailed M-Ocean View Streetcar Brings MUNI Delays

By Jonathan Farrell

There were only six passengers on the trolley when it derailed early Friday morning. There were no injuries or damages. The Feb. 12 derailment of the M-Ocean View car around 6:20 am at 19th Ave and Holloway endangered a very busy intersection, it is the MUNI stop for one of the City's and the State's most populated university campuses of almost 30,000 students.

The derailment caused delays on the M-Ocean View and K-Ingleside train lines; and for the rest of the day SFMTA dispersed replacement shuttles between the Phelan Loop, near City College of San Francisco and West Portal. This was done so that commuters could transfer to other trolley lines to go downtown.

The Golden Gate Xpress also pointed out that the derailment comes on the heels of SFMTA's announcement of new plans for a subway M-Ocean View line. Once underground, the train line would suffer less frequent delays, according to the project's lead manager Liz Brisson.

With an average weekday ridership of 128,500 passengers, the MUNI Metro system is the third busiest light-rail (trolley) system in the nation. For the past two decades, as expressed at numerous community and public meetings, SFMTAofficials have noted that much of the delay and complications in mass transit has been due to "above ground complications." Car traffic, road work, pedestrians, all can be contributing factors to delays and malfunctions to light-rail and electrified bus lines above ground.

The MUNI Metro (or the underground as locals refer to it) is a contemporary incarnation of the traditional streetcar system that had served San Francisco since the late 19th century.

While many streetcar lines in other cities, and even in San Francisco itself, were converted to buses after World War II, five lines survived until 1980, when the streetcar lines were partially upgraded to light rail with the opening of the upper level of the Market Street Subway in that year. Full daily Muni Metro service was inaugurated in 1982. Recently, as has been reported,the system has undergone expansion, most notably the Third Street Light Rail Project. That was completed in 2007. The T-line inauguratedthe first new rail line in San Francisco in over half a century. Other projects, such as the Central Subway, are underway.

When The Westside Observer inquired with SFMTAfor details about the derailment, spokesman and mediarep Paul Rose, said that the exact cause is still not known. "All service resumed that same day," he noted, and "the investigation continues. We apologize for the inconvenience."

When asked if SFMTA posted the news of the derailment on LinkedIn, he replied. "No, I would never post that." In today's tech savvy world, agencies like SFMTA have very strict rules about what is officially released to the media. Yet, social media sites like LinkedIn gave the impression that the post was issued by Rose and the SFMTA.

Any important alerts to the public are posted on SFMTA's web page, Facebook and Twitter page.

Jonathan Farrell is a San Francisco free-lance journalist.

March 2016

Is Hardly Strictly Largely Illegal?

By Jonathan Farrell

The three-day extravaganza in Golden Gate Park known as Hardly Strictly Bluegrass this past Oct. 4 through 6th is very much like the summer music festivals in Stern Grove.

Admission was free and the music festival featured such widely celebrated artists as Bonnie Raitt, Boz Scaggs, Los Lobos, Steve Martin, Conor Oberst, Steve Earle, Emmylou Harris, as well as 80 other performers. Some estimates say more than the population of the City turned out in Golden Gate Park for the three-day event.

Hardly Strictly began in 2001 and exists because Warren Hellman wanted to bring his favorite acts to his hometown and share music with the City. Hellman was a private equity investor who founded his own firm. He died in 2011, but Hardly Strictly Bluegrass (HSB) Festival carries on.

Mayor Ed Lee also joined HSBG organizers, the Hellman Family, SF Unified School District middle school students, and celebrity MC Hammer to kick off the festival.

“We are excited to host this magical event in Golden Gate Park for its 13th year,” said San Francisco Recreation and Parks General Manager Phil Ginsburg. “The festival is held in one of the nation’s most idyllic urban parks, and I know Mr. Hellman will be with us in spirit.”

Over the past three years the Bluegrass Festival has given nearly $230,000 for recycling containers and turf and irrigation repairs in the meadows, ensuring that Golden Gate Park is beautiful for the festival and park users all year long.

This year’s festival featured six stages and more than 350 musicians, with over 750,000 attendees. Even though the event was well attended and is a success, some residents and neighbors near Golden Gate Park have expressed concerns.

“I live right across the street from the Park,” said long-time resident Doug McKirahan. “Each year the crowds get larger.” He noted that while Hardly Strictly Blue Grass is not as rowdy as the Outlands Music Festival, held in summer, the noise can still get loud.

“Usually it is on the last day of the blue grass festival when the music gets loud,” said McKirahan. He noted that it was to the point where windows rattle. “I did not mind it as much years before because it initially started out as a one-day event. Now it has been stretched to three.”

McKirahan is not alone in his point of view. There are many among the residents who live near Golden Gate Park that consider these large-scale events as an over-done misuse of a man-made, natural oasis.

The major difference between HSBG and Outlands is not only the type of music, but that the blue grass festival is free. McKirahan believes that the hot-line provided for resident to complain or voice concerns is really just a venting line. “Officials claim that they are measuring the volume levels and such. But they don’t do anything about it,” he said. “Our complaints and concerns are ignored,” said McKirahan.

And, while he did reiterate HSBG festival does not get as rakish and ruckus as Outlands, the event ends at 7 pm; “people will carry on in conversations and are slow to dispurse for hours, long afterwards.”McKirahan made it clear he is not against the festival. The music is wonderful. Yet, McKirahan also said that he and other residents he has talked to are disappointed in local officials, as well as the SF Rec. and Parks Dept. It seems as if they only see the event and others like it (such as the Outlands Festival) as another revenue stream for the City and Rec. and Parks Dept.

One resident who did not want to be quoted did say she was amazed at how orderly the event was despite the extremely large and packed in crowds. Both the San Francisco Chronicle and the Richmond District Police Station noted that no crimes were reported. Richmond Station said in its blotter-report that there were “fewer complaints than previous years, and that according to their estimates “over 80,000 plus” people had attended. Some speculate the reason for the orderliness of the crowds is due to the fact that no alcohol is sold at the festival. Richmond Station thanks everyone involved in making the festival a success and said it is looking forward to next year.

Jonathan Farrell is a San Francisco free lance reporter. Feedback: jonathan@westsideobserver.com

Gut Health: Navigating the Intestinal Tract

By Jonathan Farrell

In the past few years the focus on digestive or intestinal health has increased. Many yogurt brands now have "pro-biotic cultures" to aid in a healthy digestive system. Yet with all the products currently on the market, this reporter was curious to know what is for real and what is hype? No doubt the recent recall of a popular "Greek-style"yogurt brand due to mold might have consumers wondering.

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Why all this concern over intestines or "gut health" as some call it? "A healthy intestinal track is really important," said the Westside Observer's own Sharon Caron in her monthly wellness column. "Most of the problems are due to stress and poor diet choices.”

Still,the importance of a good bowel movement seems to be heard loud and clear by yogurt producers like Dannon, who since 1987 with the development of bifidobacteria have made "pro-biotic" a household phrase. Dannon is the maker of Activia, one of the most popular on the market. While many of the digestive health products are yogurt based, not everything about digestive health is dairy related.

Why all this concern over intestines or "gut health" as some call it? "A healthy intestinal track is really important," said the Westside Observer's own Sharon Caron in her monthly wellness column. "Most of the problems are due to stress and poor diet choices."

The National Commission on Digestive Disorders in the United States reported in 2009 that 60 to 70 million Americans are affected each year by digestive diseases, at a cost that exceeds $100 billion in direct medical expenses.

Conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or having too much acid or not enough acid in the body, are all symptoms related to lifestyle and diet. In her work as a natural healing practitioner, Caren believes in the use of natural essential oils as one way to help heal or restore balance.

Caren who suffered injuries from a car accident in 1977, has built her natural healing practice from the view-point of wanting to understand the process of healing and to maintain wellness naturally. Eating a proper and healthy diet was crucial. Yet, as she notes,"I realized if I wasn't eating the proper amounts of raw fruits and vegetables, I needed to supplement. This is a way the body rejuvenates itself to stay healthy and vital." Many of the supplements on the market that help with digestion and "regularity" of bowel movements are fiber based, often in a powder or granule form.

Some forms of fiber are called "prebiotics." Paul Clark is an herbalist on staff at pharmica, which describes itself as an integrative pharmacy that promotes natural products in all of its stores. There is a location not far from West portal in Cole Valley. Clark explained that pre-biotics are non-digestible or partially digestible food ingredients that stimulate the growth of healthy bacteria in the colon and thus promote better overall health. He understood the concern and curiosity as he said, "there are dozens and dozens of products out there, it is important to look at the source of the product, where does it come from? Is it reputable?"

Clark at pharmica also explained that diets full of good healthy fiber help maintain proper intestinal health. "There are several ways the human body, cleanses itself, the colon is just one," he said. "Studies have shown that the American diet needs at least 28 grams of fiber a day, whereas typically the average person only consumes about eight to 11 grams." Clark also noted that as people age, their needs change, and therefore paying attention to diet is crucial for continued good health. "There are lots of fiber products on the market, just as there are dozens of probiotic and yogurt products on the market. We here at pharmica strive to provide the best of the products."

He, Caren and others this reporter talked to admitted in today's consumer market, the ever-growing array of products seems endless. Choosing the right product can get confusing. As Clark explained, "again it all has to do with source of the product, the ingredients and what a person's needs are." Certainly there is a lot of hype out there with regards to products, even those that are labeled as "natural" "organic" "high in fiber" or even "probiotic." "All you have to remember about 'probiotic' is that it is the actual 'live-culture," said Clark. "'prebiotic' is simply the stuff that helps promote or encourage the live-culture (or good bacteria) to grow. For those who have issues with dairy, or gluten, then they should look to other foods that have probiotics in them such as fermented foods. No matter whether fiber or diary t, a diet rich in fresh fruit and vegetables is important."

Constipation (and other intestinal issues, like acid reflux, indigestion) is of concern if on-going. Caren pointed out that so many people are prescribed antacids, laxatives and other pills. Such pills and medications only treat the symptoms, not the causes. Caren noted people must avoid getting hooked on pills or antacids for intestinal problems. With the help of her fellow essential oil consultant Lauren Broiller, Caren provides regular workshops and informational series on the importance of "a healthy gut and healing your gut naturally."

And, of course, Clark recommended that people consult with their doctor or medical professional before buying any product. Consulting with a medical professional first can save time and money. But as Clark, Caren and Broiller pointed out, no supplement alone is a replacement for a sound health diet.

Editor's note: Sharon Caren no longer writes "Sharon the Health" for the Observer. Her informative columns are available at westsideobserver.com/columns/Caren.html

Jonathan Farrell is a San Francisco free lance reporter. Feedback: jonathan@westsideobserver.com

October 2013

New Mural Replaces Lakeside Village Eyesore

By Jonathan Farrell

A charming enclave that seems like a little town within a neighborhood is Lakeside Village, just off of 19th Avenue on the way to Stonestown mall. The one short block between 19th Avenue and Junipero Serra Blvd sometimes feels like a "mini-Main Street USA."

In fact, many people know Lakeside Village as the stop along the M-Oceanview MUNI trolley line just before arriving at Stonestown. For years, that narrow corridor which allows passengers to step on and off the trolley almost right in the middle of that one block of Ocean Ave has been riddled with graffiti. Residents and merchants made continuous efforts to erase the markings. But, like any struggle with graffiti, re-appeared, over and over.

One resident, Mike Ritch who works and lives in one of the buildings along that narrow stretch of MUNI track, decided to do something about it. A talented mural artist,Ritch approached property manager Harmon Shragge, and the building's owner, Michael Tobriner. With their permission and help. Ritch created an eye-catching mural. "I wanted it to be something that caused people to take a second look," he said, "especially for the passengers on the trolley as they glance out the window."

"I like the idea of bringing art into the neighborhood," said Ritch. It took him and his group of fellow artists 120 hours, or two and a half weeks, to complete. They had to work quickly because the corridor is narrow and the trolley arrives and departs in both directions about every 20 minutes.

Ritch said MUNI was helpful in his work, as trolley operators took extra efforts to slow down when moving along that stretch of track on Ocean Ave.

Our first priority is the safety of our passengers,"said Paul Rose, media relations manager, on behalf of the SF Municipal Transit Authority; "and, those who surround us on city streets. As San Francisco has a citywide commitment to improve opportunities for the Arts, moving safely around this project was a no-brainer."

The mural that fills the 12 feet of building wall along the track is called, Tigers of the Sea." Ritch noted that the mural is inspired by visits to Monterrey Bay Aquarium. Feeling a strong connection to nature, "I've always been fascinated with the strange beauty of aquariums and have been exploring the theme in my work for years." In some ways the mural allows people to be a part of it while waiting for a trolley, they blend in as if they too are at the aquarium.

When the Westside Observer talked to Ritch about the mural, he was very confident about Lakeside Village as his home. With all due respect to building owner Tobriner, Ritch considers that stretch of wall, "my building." Since 2007, "I have been the director of the Jean Henry School of Art, a small institution founded in 1962." Its side wall is among the row of structures and fences that line the track.

The John Henry School offers fine art classes for adults in various media. "Currently, I teach oil painting and watercolor classes there, and I use the space as my studio for my canvas work," he said.

"Recently, I have been very attracted to the inherent accessibility and scale mural of work," Ritch said. He recognized the community's struggle with graffiti as a way to put his artistic talent to use in service to the neighborhood. "I hope to continue to work with property owners to bring new projects into the community.

"I had a lot of fun making it," he said, "and the building owner and the neighbors have been really supportive.

To learn more about artist Mike Ritich, his murals. and his efforts to bring art to San Francisco neighborhoods visit his web site at mikeritch.com

Jonathan Farrell is a local free-lance reporter

July 2013

Especially Cats

By Jonathan Farrell

Especially Cats Veterinary Hospital and Clinic on Taraval has a new owner and staff. Long-time Vets Drs. Koral, Anne-Marie Benfatto, and Rozycki have retired and the new owner, Dr. Manprit Buttar, and his staff of Drs. Holland and Carter have taken over the practice. When the Westside Observer tried repeatedly to speak to Buttar, he would not respond to requests for interview. Only office staff members Ursula and Stan would verify that Especially Cats was sold to Buttar in June of 2012 and that previous owner Koral and her staff of Benfatto and Rozycki had retired.

This was a bit of a shock to several patrons who have been taking their cats to the well-established veterinary clinic for years. Established in 1983, for over 30 years Especially Cats prided itself on its unique focus—only cats. Cat lovers over the years praised the practice for its feline-focused approach. Benfatto had mentioned in conversation to this reporter some years ago that “having the focus only on cats makes my job as a vet much more efficient.” She had been consulted at the time for some information for an article about sweets, chocolate, and pets.

There is so much to learn in veterinary school, she said at that time. All the various animals, not just cats and dogs, is a lot. In Veterinary school, students are required to learn about farm animals, rodents, reptiles, and the list of things we had to learn was extensive.” Benfatto mentioned that focusing just on cats allowed her to have more confidence. And, just when people think they know all there is to know about cats, they will surprise you with something new.

Oh, and as for giving sweets to pets? That is not a good idea. Cats actually,” as Benfatto explained, “don’t really have a taste for sweets, whereas dogs will eat just about anything. Cats are smarter about food and (potential) toxins than dogs, she said.

It was precisely because of this primary focus and attention to cats that cat owners flocked to Especially Cats. This is why some long-time patrons were surprised when Especially Cats was taken over by Buttar. It is not clear whether or not a notice was given or formal announcements were made. Only it is obvious by some of the reviews posted on Yelp.com that long-time patrons are perplexed as to the change in ownership. Of the 137 reviews, eight expressed disappointment with the change in ownership.

One thing is certain: cats are adored at Especially Cats.

One reviewer/patron, Denise A, and others, recalled how much Drs. Benfatto and Rozycki loved cats. It was that love for cats that kept patrons returning year after year. Denise also claims that Unfortunately, Dr. Rozycki has taken a year-long sabbatical to tend to animals in developing countries.” Her post from this past August of 2012 noted that she was so pleased with Rozycki and Especially Cats she never took her cats to any other vet clinic in all the more than 20 years she (and her cats) had been a patron.

It is not clear why the former owner and staff retired and sold out so unexpectedly. Did Rozycki›s departure for a sabbatical have something to do with selling the practice? Current owner Dr. Buttar would not respond. Office staff members Stan and Ursula would only confirm that practice was sold in June of 2012 and provided no other details. Yet several reviews on Yelp.com did note that prices/rates for service had increased.

From its new website, Especially Cats notes that cats are now the most popular pets, out-numbering dogs in the United States. The web site also says we hope to lengthen and enhance the years that you can spend with your cat, by focusing on wellness care and preventative medicine through all life stages. (And this includes kitten and elderly cats too.) Under its new ownership and staff, Especially Cats Veterinary Hospital is a full service cat clinic and wellness center.  Especially Cats is comprised of a modern hospital, surgical unit, radiology department, and an on-site laboratory with a complete veterinary pharmacy.

Located at 1339 Taraval Street, Especially Cats is open Monday through Friday 8 AM to 6 PM and on Saturdays from 9 AM to 4 PM. For more information call 415) 681-5553, or visit the web site at: especiallycats.com

Jonathan Farrell is a local free-lance reporter Feedback: jonathan@westsideobserver.com

Fleishacker Farewell Ends an Era

By Jonathan Farrell

A suspicious fire caused extensive damage to Fleishacker Pool on Dec.1, 2012, causing city officials to condemn its remaining buildings’ fading remnants to be demolished on Dec. 18.

The pool was built in 1925, when most of the outskirts of San Francisco were sparse farmland and dairies. Much of what are the outer parts of the City were built in the 1920’s and early 30’s before the Great Depression. Much of what is now the Sunset and Richmond Districts next to Golden Gate Park was sand dunes.

Known as Fleishacker Pool, it was over 1,000 feet long and 150 feet wide and filled with six million gallons of salt water. A recreational compliment to the adjacent Fleishacker Zoo (which eventually became the San Francisco Zoo) and Playland-at-the-Beach amusement park, the pool served the entire City. The SF Examiner reported that at its peak, the pool and its surroundings accomodated over eight million people.

The pool closed in 1971 when a water pipe in the filling system failed. Yet even more likely, it was due to declining attendance as Playland-at-the-Beach also closed during that time. Not long after its closure, Janet Pomeroy, the founder of the Recreation Center for the Handicapped, used a portion of the buildings to start her outreach work. Once established, Pomeroy eventually moved to a brand-new facility built across from Lake Merced near Skyline Blvd. The Rec. Center for the Handicapped is now officially called The Janet Pomeroy Center for the Handicapped, in her honor.

Since that time the massive pool, which required lifeguards in rowboats to watch over the swimmers, got filled in and the large parking lot paved over. The City hoped to make Fleishacker Pool and its once-opulent Mediterranean-style buildings part of an expanded and renovated San Francisco Zoo. But unfortunately, as the Zoo eventually became privatized in the early 1990’s, that project fell apart. With no real solid commitments to restore the pool and its compound, the entire area became a magnet for vandalism. Graffiti germinated, making the entire area desolate and forgotten.

The pool was deemed a total loss and a safety hazard by SF Fire Department officials who surveyed the fire damage. “I don’t have a lot of faith that anyone with any clout wants to save this building, but I haven’t completely given up,” Woody LaBounty, a local historian and founder and coordinator of the Western Neighborhoods Projectsaid, just days after the fire.

Gloria Rogan, SF realtor and member of the local SF Historical Society, agreed, “with all the money that flows through this City, you think it would be a worthy effort. Yet,” she surmised, “I think one of the reasons why things with real historical significance like the Fleishacker Pool get ignored or go unnoticed is because so much of the City is transient in nature.”

“I am originally from Michigan not far from Detroit,” said Rogan, “and what bothers me about this wonderful city of San Francisco is the short-sighted indifference. Back in Michigan the people there at least try to save some of the landmarks, and it’s not easy, because Michigan has fallen on hard times. Yet here in San Francisco, where money flows more readily, interest in saving or restoring falls apart.” Rogan made note of the recently completed restoration of the Dutch Windmills. But that was spear-headed a lot by private efforts, and the Dutch Government.”

Some think most of the problem with these landmarks and public park areas is that the Recreation and Parks Dept. is not able to manage so much acreage and various property holdings. Golden Gate Park itself has over 1,100 acres, plus more than a dozen recreation centers, and playgrounds. Rogan also noted that such landmarks are witness, not only to San Francisco’s civic and public recreational past, but the entire national history. “People forget that previous generations went out of their way to support and ensure that parks, pools, zoos and such were a part of the public life that everyone could share.”

Unlike the amusement parks of today, such as Great America, Six Flags and even Disneyland, Playland-at-The-Beach was free. Yes, rides did cost a fee, yet to walk into Playland or to stroll along the boardwalk was free to all. The Fleishacker Pool, the Zoo, the Sutro Baths and all of Golden Gate Park was a way for families to have a little vacation without having to travel that far or spend a lot of money.

It is hard to fathom that at one time the City’s Zoo (also founded by Herbert Fleishacker), the Park, the Museum, the Academy of Science and other attractions were all managed and operated by the City of San Francisco. In the 1990’s the trend to privatize has questioned the City’s power and resources to maintain and administrate these facilities without a public-private partnership.

“As most of us know, members of the public have asked the Zoo and Rec and Park to attend to the building over the past decade with no change in approach or plan,” said LaBounty.” Between loose tigers, soccer fields, dog walkers, coyotes, recycling center evictions, beach and road erosion, financial issues and department head turnovers, the departments with jurisdiction over the site have not been able to focus any energy or, frankly, interest. I hope I’m not doing too much of a disservice to the City in guessing that it sees the fire as solving a problem, and prefers a quick demolition.”

Still LaBounty is hoping for a positive outcome despite the dismal forecast for the future of the Fleishacker Pool facilities. LaBounty called the Westside Observer shortly after the SF Examiner story was published to say, Architectural Resource Group is under contract to photograph the whole place.

“And, Rec. and Park wants to save what decorative elements they can, perhaps one of the portals whole. They are leaning on ARG and others to help with assessment of what can be preserved,” said LaBounty. “A likely scenario might be open space landscaping with some remnant and interpretive display. Yet that all depends on Recreation and Parks and the eagerness of people to help pull efforts and resources together to save what remains and is possible to salvage.”

Jonathan Farrell is a freelance San Francisco reporter.

February 2013

NEW RULES FOR TAX TIME!

By Jonathan Farrell

Tax season is not far away and according to senior tax preparer, Susana Veamatahau Pau, it is best to file early. She is the supervising manager for Jackson Hewitt Tax Service for the San Francisco and San Mateo region and graciously answered a few questions for the Westside Observer. (Photo Susana Pau)

1. What is the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012? What does it do for the average American tax payer?

Recently approved by Congress, the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 is a bill that retroactively extends many expired tax benefits for 2012, permanently patches the Alternative Minimum Tax and makes permanent most of the provisions of the Bush Tax Cuts that had technically expired on January 1, 2013.

Through the legislation, most taxpayers can now breathe a sigh of relief in having avoiding significant tax increases that would have come from the country falling off the ‘Fiscal Cliff’ had a deal not been reached.

There are many elements included in the bill, but here are three main elements taxpayers should note:

The Payroll Tax Holiday: The resolution to the fiscal cliff extended a lot of taxpayer friendly benefits into the 2012 tax year, but the Payroll Tax Holiday was not one of them, and Congress decided to let it expire January 1, 2013. This tax benefit lowered the taxpayer required Social Security tax payment by 2 percent in 2011 and 2012. With the expiration of the benefit, taxpayers’ payroll taxes increased on January 1 by 2 percent, which lowers total take-home pay.

The Alternative Minimum Tax: The Alternative Minimum Tax, commonly referred to as the AMT, was enacted in 1969 to ensure that individuals and corporations that benefit from certain exclusions, deductions, or credits pay at least a minimum amount of tax. The minimum income required to be subject to the tax is what was permanently ‘patched’ this year. The change protects more than 31 million taxpayers from an increase of almost $3,000 in taxes.

Other deductions impacted by the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012: While the Payroll Tax Holiday was left to expire, other deductions were extended, such as the current versions of the student loan interest deduction and the credit for child care, both of which were permanently extended. Additionally, the American Opportunity credit was extended through 2017.

2. Are there any limitations or restrictions to the benefits that retroactively extends many expired tax benefits for 2012 and many of the provisions of the Bush Tax Cuts that expired on January 1, 2013?

The 2012 tax law changes were extended for two years only for January 1, 2012 through December 31, 2013

The Mortgage Debt Forgiveness was extended through December 31, 2013

The American Opportunity Credit, the expanded Additional Child Tax Credit, and the Expanded EITC rules covering married taxpayers and families with three or more children have been extended through December 31, 2017.

3. You say that it is best to Look for a local tax preparer who is knowledgeable and who has a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN), which the IRS requires for all paid tax preparers. Is this an indication that tax preparation and forms are now all electronic and that this way is the way for the 21st Century? For those people who are not tech savvy, will hard copy forms submitted still suffice? Or is that completely phased out now?

The Internal Revenue Service now requires all paid preparers to have a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) before preparing returns.

This requirement is part of the IRS initiative to set minimum standards for practice and knowledge for all preparers, whether a customer’s return is submitted electronically or on paper.

While it is still possible to submit a paper return via U.S. mail to the IRS, most taxpayers prefer to electronically submit their tax documents. In fact, more than 113 million income tax returns were e-filed last year (in 2012), or more than 80 percent of all individual returns filed. In addition, the IRS requires all tax return preparers who complete tax returns for more than 10 people to e-file returns. Taxpayers who wish to file a paper return may still do so, even when they use a tax professional.

E-file, or electronic filing, is a method of sending your tax return to the IRS and the state via a secure computer-to-computer channel. There are several benefits to e-filing a tax return:

Speed: The processing time is faster. The IRS expects 9 out of 10 taxpayers will receive their refund in under 21 days after the IRS receives the return again this year.

Accuracy: Before your return is accepted by the IRS, math errors as well as name and social security numbers are verified. Plus, paper returns are entered by IRS employees, thereby leading to potential mistakes and inaccurate entries.

Confirmation the IRS has received your return: The IRS responds electronically once your return is accepted as filed.

4. Is it good for everyone to keep track of all their receipts and bills all the time, so that when tax season rolls around, people are ready to file and file early?

It is beneficial to designate a place in your home to save relevant tax receipts and materials throughout the year, such as a drawer or a shoe box. Many online options also exist for storing records, such as Jackson Hewitt’s MyTaxManager, at the Jackson Hewitt web site. In general, knowing where you can easily access your records will mean less time spent gathering items needed for preparing a tax return each year.

And with approximately 75 percent of taxpayers receiving a refund each year, there is no reason to wait. It can be advantageous to file early.

5. How is identity theft impacting tax returns, why is it on the rise in terms of taxes? What can people do to safeguard their tax returns from being tampered with or mishandled? How does filing tax forms early safeguard against identity theft?

A thief can steal someone’s identity by taking an unsuspecting person’s social security number and personal information, and then using it to file a tax return under the person’s name and identity — typically with fabricated information and deductions, and a resulting fraudulent refund. Unfortunately, in many cases, the victim is unaware that this has happened until a tax return is filed, only to find that a return has already been submitted in their name with fake information.

Here is what consumers should do to keep personal information out of the wrong hands as they prepare and file a return:

· Plan to file early – the sooner that your information is properly received by the IRS, the less likely it is that a thief will be able to access it.

· Make sure you e-file, or electronically file, your tax return. By e-filing, only you and your tax preparer will be handling your documents. The less people handling your information, the lower your chances are of having your personal information compromised.

· Keep important documents, such as copies of tax returns, credit card statements, cancelled checks, paystubs and similar data in a secure location like a locked file cabinet, or scan the information into a secure computer or web-based document storage program and destroy the original copies.

· Be sure to destroy documents older than four years. DO NOT simply throw them away — destroy them or at least shred them.

· Be cautious and vigilant when it comes to providing any personal information, such as your social security number, bank or credit account numbers over the phone or via e-mail, and avoid carrying your social security card in your wallet.

· Be aware that the IRS never communicates via e-mail. If you get an e-mail inquiry from someone claiming to be from the IRS, or if you get a phone call asking for you to e-mail personal information, do not provide these details without verifying the legitimacy of the request first.

· If you suspect your identity has been stolen, contact the IRS right away.

6. Do life changes that impact tax returns? In the past year or so what has been the most common life change that has impacted people’s tax returns? Has it been, buying home? (What about refinancing? Has the most common been going back to school? Having a baby or caring for an elderly parent?

Even with everything we’ve just been through with the fiscal cliff and the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012, nothing drives more changes to taxes than life changes.

While each person’s tax situation is different and we cannot speak to which life changes are most prominent, three of the most usual ones are having a baby, getting married (or divorced) and buying a home. There are significant tax considerations involved in each of these; be sure to speak with a tax preparer about them to ensure that you are claiming all of the benefits available to you.

In addition, apart from these, there are other life changes that can lead to a larger refund, such as a child returning to live at home after completing college, caring for an aging parent (and the parent does not necessarily have to live with you to trigger the tax benefit) or even you or your spouse deciding to go back to school.

7. How has the recession economy impacted tax returns over the past few years? Or does that matter?

Many people are still out of work, but it is important to know that there are many tax implications related to unemployment.

First, unemployment compensation is fully taxable, so if you were unemployed during the year, you will probably need to file a tax return. You may even be surprised to discover that you owe a considerable amount in taxes. If you did not have enough withheld during the year or if you did not make quarterly estimated tax payments, you may also owe an underpayment penalty.

If you collected unemployment benefits during the year, you should receive Form 1099-G, Certain Government Payments. All state unemployment benefits are taxable income for federal tax purposes and are reported on Form 1099-G, Box 1. The federal withholding amount, if any, is reported in Box 4.

Finally, know that if you started your own business during the year, or offered your services as a consultant while looking for a new job, your income is considered self-employment income. This income is reported on Form 1099-MISC, Miscellaneous Income. If you are considered self-employed and your net earnings are $400 or more, you must pay self-employment tax on the income you received. In addition, you may need to make estimated payments to cover the amount of self-employment tax and income tax associated with the income you earned.

Pau works out of the San Mateo Jackson Hewitt office on West 39th Ave. Her schedule as manager is busy often helping other offices like the one in Walnut Creek. Yet despite her busy schedule Pau and her home office in San Mateo have received five-star ratings on Yelp. There are other tax services out there like H and R Block.

For more information about tax preparations for this year contact the Internal Revenue Service or a trusted, certified and licensed professional like Susana V. Pau. To contact her or the Jackson Hewitt office call 650-349-4491.

February 2013

City College is OK

By Jonathon Farrell

The accreditation of City College of San Francisco, which was initially reported as dire, may be overblown. Cited with 14 violations to its accreditation status by the Accreditation Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, CCSF was told to meet the recommendations or have its accreditation taken away.

As the largest community college in the State of California, CCSF has a collective student body of over 90,000, providing credit and non-credit courses.

John Rizzo, president of the Board of Trustees for CCSF, responded to the 14 recommendations, “some are fiscal, some are administrative, CCSF has a ‘middle management issue’ which we are going to correct.” Yet he emphasized that while CCSF is mandated to present its required academic and mission statement plans by Oct of 2012, “City College is not closing, we are not even on the brink of closing,” he said. 

Emergency meetings were held, like the “Town Hall Meeting” on July 9, where over 350 people showed up to express concerns. They gathered at the LGBT Center on Market Street to rally support for the college, which has been serving the educational needs of the City for more than 70 years. 

Supervisor Eric Mar helped to convene the meeting and told the Observor that he considers the situation very serious, even though the college went through this once before back in 2006. The meeting on July 9 and “follow up meetings that were held shortly thereafter were important,” said Mar, “because the college needs to be rallied in support and helped through this crisis.”

Mar noted that as a “vital bridge to four-year universities,” City College must not let this threat of the loss of accreditation discourage students from pursuing their educational goals. Mar also noted the students, and the efforts of interim Chancellor Pamela Fisher, are determined to get through this. Mar pledged his support to do as much as he can to resolve the situation. And, Rizzo said “The State Budget has torn away 17 million dollars in funding last year. The State is systematically de-funding public education.”

Rizzo pointed out that while CCSF went out of its way to downsize to accommodate a budget deficit by cutting 25 percent of its administrative elements, the Accreditation Board “wants us to spend more money on administration,” and by that, Rizzo clarified, “executive administration.”

He also wanted to clarify that the recent reports in media such as the SF Chronicle and Examiner that City College is in a dire situation and may be forced to close, “they are wrong,” said Rizzo. But Mar disagreed with Rizzo. As a former teacher at SF State University and a school board member, Mar said he is familiar with the accreditation process and the recommendations should be taken seriously.

Whether or not the accreditation is strictly hinging upon fiscal matters, the quality of education and the standards City College maintains are very high. Other sources indicated that the issue is not about the quality of the education, or the dedication of faculty; it is about the budget. Seeking more taxation through a parcel tax, and other measures to be placed on the November ballot, are being certainly part of every discussion. 

As the largest community college in the state—with over eight satellite campuses throughout the city—a bureaucracy and budget issue is always a concern. Yet the question to ask is “why so now?” And, why take such an extreme measure? Taking away accreditation would impact thousands of students and would cause considerable hardship on a very much-needed public education system. “We are currently working on the recommendations that the Accreditation Board set forth, we will have a required plan in place, and will, by the Oct. 15 deadline have several items on the list completed.” said Rizzo, confidant CCSF will actually be ahead of schedule by that time.

Jonathan Farrell is a free-lance San Francisco reporter. Feedback jonathan@westsideobserver.com

September 2012

Is ‘The Arb’ In Danger Of Becoming Privatized?

By Jonathan Farrell

Whimsically designed, painted concrete and large potted plants in bold-neon colors have replaced a peaceful sylvan meadow in the Arboretum

Just off of Lincoln Way and 9th Ave, 55 acres within Golden Gate Park contain over 8,000 species of plants. This select area is known as the San Francisco Botanical Garden (SFBG) and Strybing Arboretum. Yet some residents who treasure the natural oasis are speaking up saying that they fear the garden and arboretum is in danger of becoming privatized.

A new nursery, along with a learning center will be built at the botanical garden and arboretum at an estimated cost of about $14 million. Lobbyist Sam Lauter presented these plans January 30 to the members of the Sunset Heights Association of Responsible People (SHARP).

As a non-profit entity, the SF Botanical Garden Society was founded in 1955 and has been actively supporting the garden and arboretum through fundraising efforts. The society works in partnership with SF Recreation and Park Department, which owns the land. This complicated partnership has some people in the local community very skeptical of the proposed $14 million upgrade plans.

One very outspoken resident is Harry Pariser who lives within walking distance of the garden and arboretum. He provided a tour of the place for the Westside Observer, pointing out his concerns as he walked along the many paths and trails. “This has been a respite from the urban setting. Look around you,” he said, “it is as if we are not in the City anymore.”

Pariser treasures spots like the Redwood grove, where trees and plants transport visitors to a tranquil place. Squirrels and birds frolic freely as the atmosphere envelops visitors. Yet, he pointed to the redundant additions, like two signs posted to say the same thing. One is obviously much older the other a new, sleeker sign. “The old sign is just fine, probably put up in the 1970’s or ‘80’s,” he said. “But look at that one next to it,” he said, “it looks more corporate, as if this place is going to be stylized and made more like a theme park.”

Saveral days latter, lobbyist Sam Lauter said, “Harry’s point of view is exaggerated.” Lauter reassured that the new plans would not damage the gardens, only enhance it. Lauter also said the plans would follow LEED certification ecological standards.

David Eldred, also a long-time resident of the Inner-Sunset, like Pariser, has witnessed the changes. “There is a lack of vision,” he said. Eldred and others established keeparboretumfree.org. “My frustration is that we worked hard for a solution to the charging of admission fees, and it failed.” He also believes the Arboretum should be free as it has always been.

Mary Sporer, who refers to the garden and arboretum simply as “The Arb,” agreed. She too has noticed the changes. “I have been a resident since ‘69 and I have raised my children here,” she said. “Now, families with children find it difficult and expensive to live here.”

“The Arb, it was, and is our refuge from the stress of city-living. Few people visit The Arb now that the admission fees are charged,” she said. She pointed out how the official name has been subtly changed to “The San Francisco Botanical Gardens.” “The name of Strybing has been almost eliminated, in favor of a “more marketable title” said Pariser.

Advocates fear that selfish interests are trampling on the original intent of the garden and arboretum. Since the establishing of an admission fee more than three years ago, debate and opposition have been on-going. Lauter would not comment on the admission fees. He referred that question to Sue Ann Schiff, the current executive director. Schiff said she was “not able to find any proof” that Helen Strybing wanted the garden and arboretum to be free to the public forever. According to Schiff, Strybing made it clear that the City was to be responsible for operating and maintaining the garden. So the City must find ways to fund the garden and charging a fee is one way to do that.

“Helen Strybing was instrumental in establishing the garden and arboretum,” Sporer said, “she wanted the poor to benefit from this free garden,” her will stated it was part of the conditions in the Strybing family releasing the funds to establish the garden.” Eldred and Sporer both said those intentions are within the Master Plan document of 1995. So why not procuce the proofs from Strybing’s will to verify the garden’s original intentions?

SFBG reps, as well as Rec. and Park officials, claim “revenue generating” is needed to cover rising costs. Yet, the admission fee is only to pay for gardeners.

Sporer and others question the details, especially when there are things that don’t add up. “Wasn’t Prop N supposed to help pay for The Arb?” Sporer noted that SF voters approved the progressive real estate transfer tax structure initiative on the ballot in 2010. Eldred sees the situation as a “slippery slope.” that will erode the natural integrity and historical significance of the garden, as well as Golden Gate Park.

With admission fees will there be a need for more management and administration? Pariser pointed to the many weathered wooden structures and projects seemingly abandoned. “I think these will be taken down in favor of something like this,” he said, pointing to the concrete installation by designer Topher Delaney.

Lauter said the demolishing of observation decks and such were not in the plan.Pariser pointed to the whimsical design of painted concrete and large potted plants in bold-neon colors. “This was once a meadow, but now it is this,” he said. “How does something like this, made of concrete and bold neon promote a more natural setting for people?” Lauter pointed out that the garden is like a museum and each installation does not have to meet with everyone’s approval.

Maybe this is where the friction is? There are those that see the Arboretum as an organic oasis, and those who see it as “a museum,” subject to change at the discretion of the garden society. Pariser wonders, when the $14 million plans get underway, “what will be left that is as natural as the garden and the arboretum has been?”

For details on the new plans visit: http://www.sfbotanicalgarden.org/ And for details about those opposed to the plans visit: http://keeparboretumfree.org/

Jonathan Farrell is a San Francisco free lance reporter.

July-Aug 2012

Redistricting: The Final Cut

By Jonathan Farrell

Over 100 citizens at a Redistricting meeting held at the Irish Cultural Center

With only three weeks left to the redistricting process, engaging all of the people of San Francisco to speak up is a special task. The remapping process aims at having approximately 72,000 residents in each district while keeping communities of interest intact.

Balancing the populations of each district while respecting the wishes of several diverse communities in each is the challenge. Currently there are 120 distinct neighborhoods and communities of interest.

“We have to balance out the population between 11 districts with an average of 73,203 people in each district,” said Myong Leigh, who serves on the nine-member panel, at the task force meeting held at the United Irish Cultural Center this past March 22. “We are under the average in Districts 1, 2 and 3. If we could expand the boundaries in Districts 1, 2, and 3 then we can get closer to the established average.” West Portal Ave is in District 7, yet is adjacent to District 4, which has two percent more population than District 7. For San Franciscans, the special redistricting task force assembles every 10 years to review the census data and then listen, to testimony from citizens about their particular neighborhood communities. (Photo: Myong Leigh)

Everyone who made comments praised the nine panel members for their efforts. But each person representing or speaking on behalf of a community or neighborhood was adamant that new boundary lines not divide or disrupt the cohesiveness. For example, there was concern as to whether or not the University of San Francisco belonged in District 1 or District 2. Or, should one portion of the campus belong to District 1 and the other to District 2? These types of questions are ones that the panel must address and will often debate in public.

“Selecting” or “deselecting” a line of boundary that represents a block or two could be significant. Depending upon its size and density, one city block can be as many as 300 to over 1,000 people. A consultant is always present to “clarify” helping the panel members understand what is contained in each line and point on the map they are considering.

This is why the community meetings are so important. The task force encourages people to speak up and be heard. “These meetings are useful and have had strong turnouts in each of the meetings throughout all the districts in the City,” said Jenny Lam, who serves as Vice Chair of the task force. “What all the meetings and districts share in common is an eagerness to provide testimony and share their point of view,” said Lam. “I find it very interesting,” said Kathy Howard, who as a local resident attended the March 22 meeting. “I appreciate the thoughtful deliberations of the Task Force and the considerable amount of citizen participation,” she said. Eric McDonnell, who serves as Chair of the Redistricting Task Force, told the Westside Observer that the process is going well and there has been good community input with “a good rhythm of feedback.” The meeting on March 22 had almost 100 people and other meetings held in various parts of the City, McDonnell said, were full to seating capacity with lots of representation. Yet he pointed out, “we are still not able to reach everyone.” He mentioned the importance of making more effort to reach the “monolingual” aspects of the City’s population. A major city like San Francisco must include citizens who don’t speak English as their primary language. “Part of our report will try to capture lessons learned since we started in August this past summer,” said McDonnell.

“We are close to completion,” said Lam. “Our priority is the inclusiveness and transparency in the process. We respect one another’s opinions. To be able to do the line drawing of district maps in public is very important. Having an open process is vital to the voting process, and it helps to strengthen the electoral process for all citizens.” When asked what they found most rewarding about the redistricting process, both Lam and McDonnell noted that it was the collaboration and the setting up of principles and guidelines within the framework of the SF City Charter. When asked if he would serve on the Task Force again, McDonnell took a breath and laughed a bit saying, “Ask me that question again in 10 years.” Lam had a similar response. She too sighed, took a moment, and said “yes, it would be an honor.”

The final and complete map will be submitted by April 14.

For details visit: sfgov2.org/index.aspx?page=2881

April 2012

$14 Million Set For Arboretom Rebuild

By Jonathan Farrell

Executive Director Sue Ann Schiff of the San Francisco Botanical Society presented the $14 million dollar plans to rebuild the SF Botanical Gardens and Arboretum to the Sunset Heights Association of Responsible People (SHARP).

“The current nursery and green-house facility was built in 1960 only as a temporary facility and it has outlived its function,” said Schiff.

Schiff and public relations coordinator Sam Lauter reassured those gathered that the plans for the new nursery, Head-house (at 4,230 square feet), Greenhouse, (2,800 square feet) Shade-house (2,800 square feet) and Learning Court (at 2,650 square feet) for visitors and schools are “very much needed.“

Lauter of Barnes, Mosher, Whitehurst, Lauter and Partners, a strategic communications and public affairs firm, was hired about three years ago after the SF Botanical Society encountered an out-cry of opposition to charging an admission fee.

More-than-two-dozen people showed up for the presentation. They were in unison in understanding that the outdated facility needed renovation. Yet they were interested in some of the details, especially the impact the renovations would have on the 55-acre facility’s future. “Will it retain its essential integrity as a public garden?”

Since the spring of 2009 when the botanical society and Recreation and Park Department proposed an admission fee charged to non-city residents, the debate has been ongoing. Lauter said that other cities with botanical gardens charge an admission fee and that he welcomes it as a way to help cover costs.

Eleven gardeners work the 55 acres that contain thousands of various plants and flowers from all over the world. A portion of those gardeners, noted Schiff “are City gardeners paid for by Rec. and Parks, through the non-residents admission fees collected.”

Schiff also explained that many residents might not understand that the botanical garden and arboretum is part of Golden Gate Park and is City property managed through Rec. and Parks. “The plans to renovate the botanical gardens has its roots in the 1995 Master Plan for the gardens and arboretum and is linked to the Golden Gate Park Master Plan of 1998,” said Schiff.

This perhaps conveys part of the complicated arrangement the SF Botanical Garden has with Rec. and Park. Yet, the founding of the beloved garden space has a more extensive background. Local historian Woody LaBounty later explained, “Helen Jordan Strybing, who died in 1926, left a bequest for gardens in the park in memory of her husband Christian M. Strybing. First payment was $100,000, the second, in 1939 after the death of her last heir, that was for $150,000. Some plantings were done in the 1930s, and after using Works Progress Administration (established by then president Franklin D. Roosevelt) money and workers, the arboretum officially opened in 1940 with about eight acres of plants,” he said. “Now it is at 55 acres,” added LaBounty.

Schiff said that originally, the cost for the new nursery and learning center, etc. was estimated at about $12 million. But with all the process involved costs have gone up since the initial estimate was presented more than five years ago.

“What was originally supposed to be an exotic garden with plants from around the world has metastasized into a major multi-million dollar project and the Strybing name has become secondary after the botanical society in the legacy of the garden,” said long-time Richmond-Sunset District resident, Nancy Wuerfel.

Wuerfel has served on many advisory and budget-auditing committees for the City. When this reporter asked for her perspective, she is wary of costs and plans that become elaborate. “The intent of the garden is getting fuzzy,” she said. “More buildings and pavement equals less garden and plant life for visitors to enjoy. “

Some, like inner-Sunset resident and local realtor John Barry, wondered what exactly are the capital funds and the revenue raised for the botanical gardens? And, if the SF Botanical Society is eager to proceed with the renovation plans as if private funds are available,” noted Schiff, then why did the SF Botanical Society apply for a grant?”

Schiff said that the application for a state grant was denied. Reasons for denial were not disclosed. Schiff said that half of the money needed has been obtained.

“It would not surprise me if the estimate of cost goes beyond $14 million,” said Wuerfel. She and other local advocates like Kathy Howard of the Golden Gate Park Alliance, fear the natural beauty of the park will be out of the reach of residents. Many others in the community view construction in the park as detrimental to its purpose as open space.

They also consider many of the revenue gaining attempts as a way to commercialize the park. “The current administration setting the pace at Rec. and Park wants to train the public to get used to paying for just about everything,” Wuerfel said.

The fine line between capital improvement funds available and revenue earned seems complex. Several people after the meeting while in support of renovation for the botanical gardens expressed concerns, hoping that everything about the project will be transparent. Schiff reassured that it would, saying that if all goes well in the process, “we hope all is finalized by the end of 2013,” she said.

The $14 million plans which aim for LEED Platinum certification (in environmental sustainability standards) will take about more than a year to complete, “about 14 months or so,” said Schiff.

To learn more about the SF Botanical Gardens http://www.sfbotanicalgarden.org/

March 2012

Noir City Celebration

Crowds At West Portal Station Head for Noir City

By Jonathan Farrell

10 days of film noir immersed the Castro Theater as the Noir City film festival celebrated its 10th anniversary.

The L-Taraval, M Oceanview and the K Ingleside trolley lines going through West Portal Station were perhaps the best way to arrive to the festival. Despite the rain storm that arrived as forecast on Jan. 20, “the festival had a fantastic sold-out crowd for opening night,” said local film enthusiast and writer Tom Mayer. “Eddie Muller, Noir City founder, was in fine form, cracking jokes — the audience was vocal in their appreciation of “Dark Passage” and “House on Telegraph Hill.”

Devoted Noir City fans like Morgan Von Rueden and Jenifer Strickland were not going to take any chances with the rain, “we rented a car for the evening,” said Von Rueden. He was glad they did, because seats were filled and arriving early was a must. Von Rueden noted that the audience was most excited about the 1951 movie “House on Telegraph Hill.” 

“That movie was filmed on location in San Francisco and is filled with recognizable scenes,” he said. “‘Dark Passage’ with Bogie and Bacall we have seen so many times, but the second feature opening night, ‘House on Telegraph Hill,’ I had not seen and, like the rest of the audience I was enthralled to see so much of the City as it was back then,” said Von Rueden. 

Directed by “The Sound of Music” director Robert Wise, “House on Telegraph Hill” is a suspense thriller, starring Richard Basehardt and Valentina Cortese, in which a survivor of WWII in Nazi occupied Europe takes on the identity of a fellow internee who did not survive. In assuming the identity, Cortese finds herself in a new life in a mansion in San Francisco. Yet, behind the charm and the fine living set amid Telegraph Hill, an intriguing plot of greed, avarice and murder surrounds her.

Cortese was schedule to appear for an interview with Muller. But now at age 90, traveling is not easy for her and so Cortese sent a letter to be read to the audience. 

On Saturday Jan. 21 following opening night of the festival, legendary TV and film star Angie Dickinson graced the Castro Theater stage for a live interview with Muller. On that night it was a double feature of Angie Dickinson films for the Noir City Festival. “The Killers” and “Point Blank,” which was filmed on Alcatraz, were both in color. Which for film noir is rare. Yet, the spirit of film noir is in these films and Dickinson shines in these classic cinema creations. 

It was a memorable evening as the full house audience that night cheered and gave Dickinson a standing ovation. She was thrilled and honored. She talked with Muller about her career saying that she considered herself “very lucky.” As Dickinson explained, she was born and raised in North Dakota and her life was pretty much prescribed to get married and be a housewife. Yet, when her parents moved to Burbank, California to find better opportunities during the Great Depression, Dickinson sensed there was more to life than being a teacher, nurse or secretary. 

“Those were the only roles, women back then did not have careers,” she said. Dickinson was working as a secretary when she entered a local beauty contest in Southern California. That in turn opened doors and she found her new path as an actress “accidentally.” But as she reiterated, she was very lucky. She thanked everyone for enjoying her work and for having such love for classic films and film noir. 

Jonathan Farrell is a San Francisco free-lance writer. For more info about Noir City visit: http://www.noircity.com/

February 2012

Great Dickens Christmas Fair: Early Ticket Discounts

By Jonathan Farrell

The day after Thanksgiving the annual Great Dickens Christmas Fair will open and usher in the Holiday season. "Early bird tickets" went on sale this past Oct 15, and while obtaining tickets early offers significant discounts, the long-standing family-operated festival has always been a big hit with everyone associated with it. Based upon last year's attendance, according to Adrianne Biggs, publicity rep for the Great Dickens Christmas Fair, the event anticipates over 30,000 visitors.

The Patterson Family established the Great Dickens Christmas Fair in 1970 and since then, over the years, experienced many obstacles, including very tight budgets. Earlier this year in January, patriarch Ron Patterson died at age 80. He and wife Phyllis initially just wanted to entertain friends for a holiday theme party. But the spirit of the Dickens Fair theme only grew stronger each year.

"There were times we were not sure if the fair could go on," said Phyllis to this reporter in an interview some time ago. Yet, the festival goes on two generations later, thanks on behalf to the many people who volunteer much of their time to ensure the Christmas fair's success.

Ron & Phyllis' son Kevin and wife Leslie Patterson have taken over as the proprietors of the Great Dickens Christmas Fair has become a passionate commitment they maintain throughout the year. It is not an easy endeavor to organize and coordinate the Christmas Fair, but it is the Patterson family's labor of love, thankfully presented every year.

Over 700 costumed actors, acrobats, singers, dancers and musicians collaborate to recreate an authentic Victorian holiday atmosphere. Relying on research, study and months of preparation, the ever-expanding cast and crew revels in the opportunity to entertain and delight audiences. Over three acres of old London unfold to greet and delight visitors. Each exhibit, stage production, and vendor does their very best to present an authentic experience of Victorian Era London.

Each year the cast introduces new shows and themes, and since 2007 the Dickens Fair has expanded its Victorian literary repertoire to include other writers of the period such as Jules Verne and Lewis Carroll. Based upon the familiar Alice in Wonderland and Twenty Thousand Leagues under the Sea stories, these attractions met with audience approval and since have become part of the festivities.

This year there will be six stages that will feature singing, dancing and various theatrical renditions aiming to enchant and please; including the magical West End Illusion Show. While the fair is very family orientated with plenty for children, such as the Mother Goose Story Time and the Father Christmas Parade, there is much for the grown-ups to enjoy also.

Mad Sal's Dockside Alehouse, the Can-Can Bijou and the "saucy French Postcard Tableaux Review have remained popular for older patrons as they are designed to appeal to the "nighttime entertainment" crowd over 18.

Over 100 vendors provide plenty to eat and drink for visitors and audiences to enjoy. A wide array of goods will appeal to holiday shoppers. This reporter has been to the Great Dickens Fair several times. Some of the highlights are an authentic English Tea of the period, complete with cucumber sandwiches, clotted cream and rum cakes; tree trimming and lighting, and a heart-inspired rousing rendition of the "Alleluia chorus from Handel's Messiah."

For those who wish to experience something truly original and in keeping with the holiday season, The Great Dickens Fair is the place to be. Visitors of all ages are welcome and encouraged to dress in Victorian style costume. A Free shuttle will be available from Glen Park BART station to the Cow Palace. Parking is available for $10.00 per vehicle. Group rates are available for 15 or more.

Visit web site at: www.dickensfair.com or call t 1-800-510-1558, Ext. 114.

Jonathan Farrell is a free-lance SF reporter.
Feedback: jonathan@westsideobserver.com

November 2011

Murphy Windmill Gets a Cap

By Jonathan Farrell

Crowds gathered on Sept. 12 as the Murphy Windmill, now restored, got its cap placed on top with the help of a gigantic crane.

The dome-like roof was designed in Holland by Lukas Verbij and constructed separately. The "cap" is made of metal and is the part of the windmill where the "sails" or vanes are attached, allowing them to turn. The "cap" by itself weighs 64 tons and had to be lifted by professional crane with crews assisting.

The ceremony, scheduled for 11 AM that Monday, got a late start. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, which winds through Golden Gate Park and ends at the Great Highway where the century-old windmill is located, was closed to cars. The intersection of Lincoln Way and La Playa adjacent to MLK Drive was blocked off until Noon. SFPD's Mounted Police unit was present, along with dozens of on-lookers all eager to watch the "cap" be set in place. Cheers and applause went out as the crane started up and slowly lifted the cap-dome in place.

Leadership Needed at Lake Merced

By Jonathan Farrell

With a governing document called a Memorandum of Understanding from 1950 that is in need of revision, the future of San Francisco's Lake Merced is in need of not only maintenance — it needs leadership.

On September 9 the members of the Park, Recreation and Open Space Advisory Committee (PROSAC) met at City Hall to discuss the need for better care for Lake Merced. Part of the conflict is the coordinating of recreational, leasing and vendor oversight that San Francisco's Recreation & Parks Department has had in caring for the Lake, along with the stewardship that the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission must maintain. Many in the local community see this relationship as "business as usual." (Photo: Lake Merced Advocate Dick Morton)

Dozens gathered for a community meeting at the Lake Merced Harding Park earlier this summer on July 19 — many expressed skepticism that the continued arrangement with SF Rec. & Parks would be beneficial to the Lake's overall maintenance. The members at the PROSAC meeting on Sept. 9 echoed much the same. They too were dissatisfied with the draft of the Memorandum of Understanding, which has yet to be officially revised and updated.

"This draft is a bit antidotal, permissive, and rather toothless," as far as Rec. & Parks Dept. is concerned, said one PROSAC committee member. Others chimed in agreement that the MOU had no teeth. As it is now, the Rec. & Parks Dept. manages all the vendor and rental spots along the Lake. That includes fishing, boating, as well as food sales, etc. (Photo: Asst. Gen. Manager, Steve Ritchie, addresses the skeptical PROSAC Board and interested residents.)

Residents complain that care for the Lake's recreational facilities have been in decline for years. The members of the PROSAC meeting for that Tuesday evening expressed similar doubts about the competency of the Rec. & Park Dept. to continue in the management role of the Lake's facilities and overall care.

The SF PUC has absolute authority over the Lake, tending to its environmental aspects such as water levels, toxicity reports, etc. Yet, the SF PUC continues this long-term relationship with SF Rec. & Park. Some ask why and what for?

Long-time community advocate for the lake Jerry Cadagan (Lake Merced) has been very outspoken about Lake Merced's decline over the years. He was among the first to form a group over 15 years ago, seeking to improve the care of the 300 to 600 acre watershed. He is disappointed that not much has changed for the Lake. Cadagan was not able to attend the PROSAC meeting (yes, that is the acronym for the advisory committee and sounds like the drug).

Fortunately for Lake Merced and SF PUC, Steve Ritchie, who serves as Assistant General Manager of Water Enterprises for the SF PUC is respected and well-liked. Much of the lack of care, according to Rec. & Parks Dept., is the dwindling City budget, which when stretched to meet all the needs of every park and open space in San Francisco is very thin. Some at the PROSAC meeting on Sept. 9 said that Ritchie should petition to find another entity outside San Francisco to manage the Lake's recreational and food venues. (Photo: Former PROSAC member Nancy Wuerfel)

Ritchie would only say that in terms of a revised MOU, "the SF PUC will be firm with Rec. & Parks when needed." Still, many were not convinced. In observing some of the details of this meeting a bit further, as well as the earlier meeting in July, the on-going complexity of this unique situation becomes clear. Lake Merced is open to the public. It is utilized by all the schools in the area. Rowing clubs and others depend upon the lake. A gun club has been at the lake for more than 75 years and has a lease with the City. Since 2004, Harding Park Golf Course at Lake Merced has upgraded to PGA status. Investment for that was considerable.

The fine details and specifics are not simple ones, which, as this reporter sees them, go beyond the rebuilding of a boathouse or the management of venues and vendors. The future environmental life of a natural resource hangs in the balance as various stakeholders claim their special interests over the Lake.

When time for public comment was permitted, people like Dick Morton spoke, saying that with the SF PUC's help, water levels at the lake have been restored. Morton commended the work. But he said that the "SF PUC should have, and exercise, full control over the Lake." Like many others Morton said that "Rec. & Parks Dept. has been absent" and that "We don't have confidence that Rec. & Park can continue to manage the lake."

Founding member of the Lake Merced Task Force, Dick Allen, agreed, saying in his comment that "Lake Merced has become an orphan between two very powerful departments." But despite the lack of confidence in Rec. & Parks, Allen said, "we do have confidence in Steve Ritchie."

Nancy Wuerfel, who is a former PROSAC committee member, spoke saying, "this struggle has been on-going. And, I don't understand why we as a community don't have a greater respect for Lake Merced as a natural resource. This watershed," said Wuerfel "is a glory for San Francisco. The MOU needs to be revised and all these issues must be resolved," she said.

Jonathan Farrell is a free-lance San Francisco journalist. Feedback: jonathan@westsideobserver.com

October 2011

New Technology Reclaims an Old Treasure

By Jonathan Farrell

For decades the North and South Windmills have been mere shadows of what they once were. Often called "the Dutch Windmill" and "Murphy Windmill," the tower-style windmills with horizontal axis turn-style vanes were among the largest of their kind in the world.

Their majestic vanes (or sails) turning in the wind have been missing from our local landscape, looking more like ghostly structures from an old horror movie like 1931's "Frankenstein." Our City has so many things that are "old world" and "new" for all to enjoy. Such treasures are often overlooked and at times ignored. Among them are the windmills. At Ocean Beach you will see them at the Western edge of Golden Gate Park facing the ocean. Some travel to places like Spain and Holland, to see the traditional windmills that are landmarks. Yet, we San Franciscans forget we have two windmills right here in our own Golden Gate Park.

Both were built in the early 1900's. They pumped over a million gallons of water each day to saturate the vast sand dunes of "the outlands," helping to create the 1100 acres of Golden Gate Park.

When the windmills were in their prime, they were anchors of mechanical ingenuity cultivating and civilizing a vast "outland" for a growing City that needed a park to utilize and treasure as its respite from urban life.

Previous attempts were made to maintain and restore the windmills (once in the '40s and in the '60s, and then there was a cosmetic restoration to the Dutch Windmill in the '80s). But they were not enough to completely restore the windmills to their former glory, which, according to a report compiled by the architecture firm of Carey & Company, was from 1907 to 1935.According to that report from 2003, and from The Campaign to save the Golden Gate Park Windmills, the two windmills started to decline when electricity was established as the power behind the motors that facilitated water pumps and irrigation systems.

That, and the constant flow of strong sea winds, wet fog, and salt air, over the course of many years contributed to the windmills' on-going deterioration. As the sails or vanes dilapidated they were eventually removed, left to decay along with other exterior debris such as broken shingles, etc. along the sides of the tower structures. By the 60's the deterioration compounded the fundraising efforts and negotiations.

The North, or Dutch Windmill got a face-lift that started in 1976. Work was not actually done until the '80s; the North windmill got its wooden vanes restored. The Queen Wilhelmina tulip garden was replanted, yet the South or Murphy Windmill was untouched.

More than a decade passed before another effort was made in 2000 by the Campaign to Save the Golden Gate Park Windmills. That effort at restoration to the Murphy Windmill, was a partnership with the City through the Recreation & Parks Dept.

As of now, work crews are rebuilding the Murphy Windmill, its tower is only an outline frame and its base reveals the intricate pattern of wooden planks and beams reminiscent of 19th Century craftsmanship.

"We have been following the Secretary of the Interior Standards on the restoration of this local landmark," said project manager Dan Mauer.

He noted that, as with any historic restoration project, there is always additional work required while trying to document and salvage existing materials. "So that way we can maintain the existing design and fabric of the structure once rebuilt," said Mauer.

The project is being carried out in phases. Lucas Verbij, a contractor in the Netherlands, is working on critical parts of the Murphy Windmill such as the mechanical gears and the pump.

The windmill-keeper's cottage also suffered extensive neglect and damage over the years. It will be renovated as part of the project. The current phase is estimated at $2,435,000.

The first two phases of the project have been estimated for completion by October. Plans to convert the cottage into a café are in negotiation. Finishing phases will follow, and time-schedules for that have not been established yet, Mauer noted.

Free-lance writer Jonathan Farrell writes about San Francisco

July-August 2011

Parkmerced Edges Out Critics

By Jonathan Farrell

The proposal to redevelop Parkmerced passed the SF Board of Supervisors on a 5-6 vote. Spokesman for the 116-acre high-rise apartment and garden townhouse complex PJ Johnston said that the redevelopment project would be a "win-win."

Parkmerced was constructed between 1941-1951. It was then and still remains the largest privately-owned single apartment complex in the City. Designed by landscape architect Thomas Church, it is one of four such places in the nation. Parkmerced's layout encompasses courtyards, gardens and wide sweeps of green space, giving residents, especially families, a sense of community and urban convenience. The proposal wants to expand the existing 3,221 units of housing into 8,900 units by demolishing the garden townhouses and replacing them with high-rises.

Once the project gets underway, demolition will eventually displace families and relocate more than 7, 000 residents. Current Parkmerced owners, under the management of Stellar/Fortress, believe this is the best plan for the future.

SF Housing Action Coalition executive director Tim Colen supports the proposal. "Population growth is anticipated to reach the size of Los Angeles or San Jose over the next decade," he said. He insists the time to prepare for the future is now. He believes density housing with high-rises is "smart housing" for the future.

"The existing towers are fine," said Colen to the members of Sunset Heights Association of Responsible People at a meeting last month. "It is the garden townhouses that have outlived their life-span," he said.

Parkmerced as envisioned by the team of Skidmore Owings & Merrill will be more transit-centered instead of car-centered. The new design challenges Church's mid-20th Century landscape design by incorporating an ecologically holistic pedestrian-focused design to create a sense of community for 21st Century needs. It will take an estimated 30 years to complete.

Speaking to Supervisor Sean Elsbernd by phone he assured that "this will be done in phases, gradually. Each phase will not proceed until the previous phase has been completed in full," said Elsbernd.

Serving Parkmerced as part of his constituency, he is confident developers will honor their agreement. Elsbernd said that with the cooperation of Stellar/Fortress, the developers promise to pay for all relocation costs. And he also said that rent control would remain for the new units.

Yet long-term Parkmerced residents like Michael Russom and Susan Suval disagree.

In return for the city's agreement to the proposal, the Parkmerced area will be re-zoned allowing for relaxing of current building height and density code restrictions.

"What will happen is a major demolition of a neighborhood," said Suval. "People don't realize that this proposed plan, if it gets its way, will create more congestion," she said. And, said Suval, "what if the relocated families stay away and do not return to Parkmerced?"

She noted that with the economy the way it is how can anyone guarantee that the new units will remain under rent control? "The developers need to make their money," said Suval. With housing the way it is now and loans hard to find, she asked, "how will families be able to afford the new units if they go on the market at full value?"

Russom, who has lived in Parkmerced for more than 20 years and raised his children there, believes that the real plan is not about creating more housing, but for greedy investors to make more money. Russom believes the City thinks it is getting a great deal by allowing the developer to build more housing to increase tax revenues.

He fears that once the proposed project gets underway, unforeseen complications will prompt Stellar/Fortress to step away from the project and hand it over to another investor/developer.Suval agreed as she said, "it is important for the City to really look at their track record. With the current recession, this is not the time to be doing this kind of project," she said.

Housing advocate and legal consultant Mitchell Omerberg said he has seen similar scenarios before. Lots of promises in the agreement but then there is a breach of contract. "This could very well end up like 'urban renewal' projects of the past such as what happened to the Fillmore District over 40 years ago," said Omerberg.

Promises of relocation and tenants and owners being able to move back after new structures were completed sounds too much like "urban renewal." As Carl Close noted in his blog article for the Independent Institute blog back in July of 2008, "with the help of eminent domain and federal funding, 4,729 businesses were forced to close, 2,500 households were pushed out of the neighborhood, and 883 Victorian houses were demolished."

SF Planning Commission Vice President Ron Miguel insists that scenario was different. Elsbernd also reassured that such a scenario could not happen. But Omerberg and architectural analyst Aaron Goodman question the judgment of the Planning Commission in its 4-3 approval to allow the proposal to go on to the Board of Supervisors.

Goodman used to live in Parkmerced and coordinated a neighborhood alliance for the complex. He said that there is no guarantee that the developer agreement with the Mayor's Office will be ironclad certain. To use this as a means to increase potential tax income Goodman sees is off balance.

Planning Commissioner Kathrin Moore questioned the feasibility of the project. "This is all speculative," she said.

She pointed out Parkmerced is along 19th Ave, one of the most congested commute corridors in the City. "It's not a city street," she said. "It belongs to the State of California, part of I-280 going south and of Highway 1 going north, the construction will go on for years," she noted. "The State and Caltrans has not even weighed in on this yet," said Moore.

Jonathan Farrell is a free-lance reporter living in San Francisco.

June 2011

Film Noir Lights Up the Castro

By Jonathan Farrell

Lines formed down the block to enter The Castro Theater on Tuesday night Jan 25. It was the fifth evening in a week-long celebration of classic vintage films of the “film Noir” genre. This year marks the ninth year the Film Noir Festival of San Francisco has featured some of the gems of the 1940’s &’50s.

“Each year we get more people,” said Bill Arney who dressed in a suit and fedora hat of the era. Arney has been lending his voice as announcer and MC to the festival for the past five years. “Last night we had over 800 people,” he said. The Theater has a maximum seating of over 1,400.

“I used to live in Sam Spade’s apartment, which is on Post and Hyde Streets,” said Arney. Sam Spade is the main character in one of the most recognizable film noir movies of all time, “The Maltese Falcon.” Based on the novel, written by Dashiell Hammett the movie not only made Humphrey Bogart a star but firmly planted San Francisco as a legendary location for film noir movies.

Living at that place where Hammet wrote his crime and detective drama brought Arney to the festival. “That is where I met Eddie,” he said. Eddie Muller is the founder of the SF Film Noir Festival, referred to as “Noir City.” As a native San Franciscan, Muller was always attracted to the alluring elements that make San Francisco and the surrounding Bay Area a great place to live.

Muller, a journalist, artist and enthusiast for preserving classic films, found his calling while attending the SF Art Institute. His love for film grew as he participated in film making and acting classes of instructor George Kuchar back in the 1970’s.

With his experience, various contacts and charm, (Muller looks outstanding in a suit and fedora), he was able to put together a film noir festival in Los Angeles. And then, in 2002 Muller formed the Noir City festival as we know it today, here in San Francisco.

Film noir is a term used primarily to describe stylish Hollywood crime dramas. As a cinematic description it particularly highlights traits that emphasize cynical attitudes and impulsive motives.

Muller and his staff, many are volunteers, work to bring back these films from a distinctive era. As a result Muller has reintroduced or in some instances delivered something entirely unknown to contemporary audiences.

“He is the ‘Czar of Noir,’ (an affectionate title many in the festival circle use) but I see him as the Pope of film noir preservation,” said Jeffery Friend. This is Friend’s first year volunteering at the festival. “Many of these movies you see here you will not find on video,” he said.

Friend like many who help out or attend the festival are captivated by the ambiance of the noir film. It’s use of dim light and shadow, to emphasize key aspects to a story’s intensity is a format. Seldom films of the noir style have direct lighting. It is mostly set in subtle tones to feature aspects of human nature and emotion that are lurking beneath the surface.

“I started my interest in vintage films through old horror movies and then got into detective films which lead me into film noir,” he said.

Friend mentioned that lots of film noir of the 1940’s and ‘50’s can be traced to pioneering influences in film history such as German Expressionist cinematography that can be traced back to the 1920’s.

Use of nuances and even symbolism was one way filmmakers of that time period were able to examine the deeper and complex consciousness of humanity as the world became impacted by the First World War and then a humiliating economic depression.

Moviegoers Marina Cazorla and Devin Hallett are major fans of the festival. “They have a great collection of movies here that no one else has,” said Cazorla. Hallet agreed as the couple chatted waiting in the long line for the box office to open.

“I like the glamour, the fashions, the stars of that time were stunning,” said Cazorla.

“Some of these noir films have a great sense of romance, said Hallet.

“Think of the story in “Casablanca,” said James Godsoe, as he agreed with Hallet. Casablanca is another iconic film.

Godsoe’s girlfriend bought him a season pass last year and he has been a fan of the festival ever since, inviting friends to join him.

“Yes, there is a lot of espionage and intrigue but it is the love between the star-crossed lovers played by Bogart and Bergman that people remember most,” said Godsoe.

Like Godoe, many people are season pass buyers. The line for season pass holders is as long as those buying a ticket for just one show. This years theme is “who is crazy now?” The theme again reiterates elements that makes film noir unique, hidden elements not seen at first but that dwell in the shadows of the human condition.

And like Friend, Cazorla & Hallet, vintage movie affectionado Tim Vigil discovered film noir through old movies and adores the film festival. “Growing up in San Leandro, my mom used to watch old movies on TV.”

“In those days, said Vigil there were no VCR’s or DVD’s, If you wanted to watch old movies you saw them on local television on shows like ‘Dialing for Dollars’ or a morning, mid-day or late night movie with a local celebrity hosting the program,” said Vigil.

The crowd that Tuesday night was a mixture of people, both old and young, men and women. Some were attired in clothes of the 1940’s and ‘50’s, many just donned a fedora. Smiles and conversation among patrons during intermission were plentiful. Yet whether dressed for the festival or not what drew the large crowd in was a love for classic movies.

“Old movies are great,” said Philip Fukuda - this is his third year as a volunteer. “If you work more than three shifts during the festival you can see all the movies for free,” he said.

Hal Savage has been working with the Noir City festival for all nine years. “I met Eddie in LA when he started the very first film noir festival,” said Savage. “I honestly did not think it would pack the theater, but the festival has kept growing each year,” he said.

“Sure, I could stay home and watch old movies on my VCR or DVD player but I would not get to experience the audience reaction and comradery.”

“That alone by itself is a treat, because each audience laughs or reacts on their own. It is not scripted, it’s totally spontaneous,” said Godsoe.

As Friend pointed out, “if we did not have film festivals like this, many of some of the most important vintage films would not be preserved and appreciated,” he said. All proceeds go to the Film Noir Foundation which works closely with Muller to preserve and restore classic films.

For more information about the Ninth Annual Film Noir Festival, visit the Film Noir Foundation web site at link: http://www.noircity.com/foundation.html

February 2011

Infrastructure Along Ocean Beach Needs Repair

By Jonathan Farrell

As summer approaches, even in foggy weather, Ocean Beach and the Great Highway is an attraction for traffic and visitors from everywhere. This is why San Francisco Dept. of Public Works and a collaboration of other agencies want to work quickly to repair the bluff section near the Great Highway and south of Sloat Blvd from erosion in last year’s winter storm.

DPW hosted a community meeting to over 30 people on May 6, at the Janet Pomeroy Recreation Center for the Handicapped on Slyline Blvd not far from Great Highway and Ocean Beach.

The purpose of the meeting that Thursday evening was to alert the public that the erosion that occurred in that stretch was extensive, affecting more than 900 feet. During the past winter storms, in some spots along the bluff of the Great Highway up to 70 feet had receded.

With the assistance of the National Park Service, California Coastal Commission and the CA Dept. of Fish & Game, over 1,000 tons of debris were removed from the beach and a 425 foot rock revetment or embankment was installed.

Repair work has been in progress since January, getting the most critical portions stabilized at a cost of 1.5 million. These urgent repairs from the winter storms of 2009 were completed this past April and are considered “Phase I.”

Yet Ed Reiskin, director of DPW, told the audience that this erosion repair is only a short-term fix. “We don’t want to just throw up barricades,” he said. “We will need more detailed, long term planning.”

Ocean Beach and the surrounding coastline are vital to the environmental health of the City and Bay Area. Steady population growth and ever-changing demographics continue to make an impact on the entire coastal area.

The City’s infrastructure is of great concern, especially since the waste water tunnel and sewage treatment plant are at Ocean Beach. If that sewage treatment plant was to be disrupted or broken by further erosion, the consequences would be chaotic citywide.

“The City is in a difficult situation because it has spent millions of dollars on the sewage treatment plant,” said George Durgerian, media rep for National Parks Service.

“They have to protect their infrastructure, he told the Sunset Beacon, but they also know that you can’t beat Mother Nature,” added Durgerian.

Durgerian pointed out that “some of the techniques used in the erosion control project have met with mixed results,” (such as soil nails and piling). “In our goal to preserve the environmental integrity of Ocean Beach and the surrounding coastline we prefer the most natural means and materials used for these projects,” Durgerian said.

While the two hour presentation and discussion on May 6 was sweeping, covering many aspects, people listened and asked questions.

Representatives from several City, State and Federal agencies were present. Among them were Astrid Haryati of the Mayor’s office, Gabriel Metcalf of the non-profit SF Planning & Urban Research (SPUR), the National Park Service and District 5 Supervisor Ross Mirkarimi.

DPW and other agencies like the State Costal Conservancy are all working together hoping that “Phase II” of the repair work will be able to protect the Great Highway from further erosion damage. Cost estimates for the Phase II and then Phase III have not been tabulated yet.

City officials at the May 6 meeting mentioned that while estimates for Phase II and Phase III have not been tallied, there is over 2 million dollars secured for this project through previously approved bond measure funds.

Speaking on behalf of the State Coastal Conservancy, Moira McEnespy, Deputy Program Manager for SF, said, “we are very much looking forward to working with the community, SPUR, the City, the National Parks Service/GGNRA, and others to holistically address issues and opportunities at Ocean Beach,”

“We are fortunate to be able to build off previous work by the Ocean Beach Vision Council,” said McEnespy. She is hopefully anticipating that funding will be approved from the conservancy and other sources.

June 2010

Local Politician Publishes Book

Ron Dudum Accentuates the Byzantine

By Jonathan Farrell

In 2006 Sunset District supervisor hopeful Ron Dudum lost by only 53 votes. It might be fitting to say that disappointments in local politics inspired him to write his first book, Three Paradigms of Reality: from Homer to Einstein.

“Had I not lost the election for supervisor I probably would not have finished this book,” Dudum told the Sunset Beacon as the book debuted this October. “Actually, the book took me over 15 years to write and with the help of a really brilliantly precise editor I was able to get it done after three arduous drafts.”

“My thoughts were there,” he said, “I just needed some help to really get a clearer perspective to get them all together,” said Dudum.

With the editor’s help and a few extra courses of study, Dudum was able to sort through the collective knowledge and experience of his life. Dudum recognized that the traditional Western approach to philosophy has five periods such as the ancient, medieval, modern, post-modern and then contemporary. In Dudum’s view these five periods of philosophical history can be condensed into three.

“Western philosophy history sort of skips over the Byzantine period which I think is crucial,” said Dudum. Condensing the five time-periods of philosophical thought into “Three Paradigms” of philosophy history is what he considers to be a more proper order of how to explain why so many people believe so many different things.

Born and raised in San Francisco by parents from Palestine Dudum mentioned that his life has been a mixture of Eastern and Western culture. Yet all the social and technological changes of the past 40 years have created the most impact upon San Francisco as well as the world.

In Dudum’s view there are two aspects to The City. One side is the popular that has its international flair attracting people from all over the world and the other side is that of the village. “I live in the village, as a native the City has a much different angle,” said Dudum.

“People come here to the City usually from some other place with lots of ideals, get involved with politics, make an impact and then leave to settle down someplace else.”

Dudum finds this rather frustrating because some of those political impacts cause problems. In a seemingly permissive place like SF how does Dudum keep focus of the traditional values like family, faith and community? “Commitment,” he said.

Dudum said that amid all the permissiveness and diversity that characterizes San Francisco it is interesting how people can view the same facts and interpret reality and truth differently.

On sale at Amazon.com, for more information about Three Paradigms of Reality: From Homer to Einstein visit www.threeparadigms.com.

November 2009

19th Ave Slated for Upgrades

By Jonathan Farrell

Improvements to the pedestrian crossings at the intersections of 19th Avenue and Judah, 19th and Taraval and 19th Ave and Sloat Blvd is set to begin sometime before the end of this year. Traffic at all three intersections will be subject to crossing closure and detour to parallel streets. This improvement work is part of an extensive series of projects that began in 2007.

The improvement work will require vehicle-traffic detours and closure of the intersections as work progresses. Ha Nguyen of SF MTA met with Sunset Heights Association of Responsible People this past Sept. 29. As project manager she and some of her staff made a presentation to the members of SHARP at that Tuesday evening gathering.

Vern Waight of SHARP said that he was impressed with Nguyen’s presentation. “It is a very extensive and complex project and while they are working on the streets crews will also work on other utilities as well as the intersection improvements,” said Waight.

Waight who worked as a traffic engineer for many years with Caltrans also admitted that while he was impressed with the presentation in the initial plans, “It’s going to be a mess along 19th Ave for a while.”

Traffic police will be directing traffic at each of the intersections while construction is taking place, he noted. “As the work gets going people will have to get used to the inconvenience,” said Waight. “Yet, once it is done it will be better and last for quite a while, at least 30 years,” he added. With the utility work that will be included in the repairs Waight said he understood the estimated cost to be at about 18 million.

The Westside Observer tried several times to reach Nguyen and Judson True at the SFMTA for verification and clarification, but requests for further information were ignored.

Waight also mentioned that at the SHARP meeting discussion about the “rebuilding of the mess at St. Francis Circle was also presented.” This work will require detours and closure of the intersection as work progresses. Described by SFMTA traffic engineer Bond M. Yee as “the most complicated intersection in the city,” St. Francis Circle is a five-legged intersection. According to a report this past February in the SF Chronicle, St. Francis Circle, which really isn’t a circle in the traditional sense of the word, has over 40,000 motorists daily. All those cars are simply trying to get to and from nearby San Francisco State University, Stern Grove, the Stonestown Mall, Interstate 280 and the West Portal commercial district. (See the full story on page one.)

Hopefully this work at St. Francis Circle as well as the work with the three intersections at 19th Ave will go smoothly. From Waight’s perspective as a former traffic engineer, 19th Ave is a “surrogate highway” as he called it. “It was never meant to handle so much traffic like a freeway.” He also said that even with the improvement work completed at the three intersections, 19th Ave would have the same six lanes.

May 2009