The Barbary Coast News

What's new this week at Embarcadero Center

Thu, 23 May 2013 13:20:18 -0700

Andersen Bakery Now Open!

Andersen Bakery, founded in the European bread-making tradition, combines only the finest and freshest all-natural ingredients (no preservatives�ever). With time-honored, authentic European recipes and baking methods, Andersen Bakery ensures the highest standard of quality and freshness in each and every product, creating a customer experience that is �Delightfully European.� Stop by Andersen Bakery�s their new location and taste one of their many delicious cakes, pastries, and breads. Andersen Bakery is located on Lobby Level in Two Embarcadero Center.

Market to Table

Join us for Market to Table at Embarcadero Center! Our Saturday morning series of free, fun and fabulous chef events will be hosted by Liam Mayclem; the KCBS Foodie Chap. Market to Table will include an intimate chef interview and cooking demonstration that features Farmer�s Market fresh items complete with recipes for everyone to enjoy at home. Tastes will be provided for the first 100 guests. Click here to RSVP.

Driving in? All Market to Table attendees will receive 4 hours FREE parking with validation. Be sure to get your parking ticket stamped before leaving the event.

Thrive Juicery

Thrive Juicery Now Open! Thrive Juicery offers fresh cold-pressed juices and cleanses. Compared to conventional juicers, Thrive's process maximizes the amount of vitamins, trace minerals, and enzymes. Each 16-ounce container of juice is made with over three pounds of organic fruits and vegetables, the equivalent of at least four servings of fruits and/or vegetables. Juices are packaged in non-toxic bio-plastic. Customers may also purchase a refillable glass bottle.

Thrive Juicery is located on Street Level in One Embarcadero Center, and will be open seven days a week: Monday - Friday from 7:00am � 6:00pm and on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00am � 3:00pm. For more information, visit http://thrive-cleanse.com or call 415.508.4577.

Wheel House

Wheel House... Coming Soon! Wheel House, the much anticipated cycle/yoga studio is opening next Monday, May 28th in One Embarcadero, Lobby Level. Be sure and stop by throughout the day for special promotional deals and refreshments!

The Melt

The Weekly Special at The Melt:

parisian melt + creamy wild mushroom soup
brie, granny smith apple w/ honey on
french baguette

Quantities limited. The Melt is located on Street Level in One Embarcadero Center.

Expert Shoe Shines & Leather Care

Founded in 1996, A Shine & Co. is the first coast-to-coast shoeshine in the U.S., and chosen by Conde Nast and Vanity Fair as THE BEST SHOESHINE IN THE WORLD! A Shine & Co. is located on Street Level in One Embarcadero Center.

Freshii

Introducing the "Green Wrap" at Freshii. Enjoy your choice of: Thai Green Wrap - half rice noodles, half greens, tofu, carrots, cilantro, bean sprouts, cucumbers, peanut sauce

Buffalo Green Wrap - brown rice, chicken, carrots, celery, avocado, blue cheese, ranch sauce, buffalo sauce

Both Green Wraps are now available at Freshii on Street Level in Four Embarcadero Center.

Hyegraph Invitations & Calligraphy

50 FREE Matching Thank You Notes! Get 50 Free matching thank you notes when you order your BRIDES invitations at Hyegraph Invitations & Calligraphy!*

*Minimum purchase of 50 invitations required. Orders must be placed at the same time. Use coupon code BRI-4513. Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 6/30/13. Hyegraph Invitations & Calligraphy is located on Street Level in Three Embarcadero Center.

Fuzio Universal Bistro

Enjoy Happy Hour at Fuzio! Fuzio Universal Bistro is the place to be from 3-6:30pm! With great deals like 1/2 off appetizers. $4 draft beers, and $1 off their signature martinis, not to mention their two big screen TVs, Fuzio is the perfect place to kick back after work and enjoy the game! Fuzio Universal Bistro is located on Promenade Level in One Embarcadero Center.

The Toaster Oven

Catering Made Easy, by The Toaster Oven. Great Sandwiches, served hot and fresh in just minutes!

Hand-spun shakes and delicious cookies.
Sandwich Trays. Lunch Boxes. Salad Platters.
Perfect for breakfast or lunch meetings, or office parties.

Fridays are for you, Embarcadero Center: Every Friday $7.00 Combo Deal (Sandwich, Chips and a Fountain Drink). The Toaster Oven is located on Lobby Level in Three Embarcadero Center. Call 415.421.0111 to place your catering order today!

Buckhorn Grill

Breakfast Now at Buckhorn Grill - Love Buckhorn Grill's Tri-tip sandwiches? Now you can enjoy the same great flavors for breakfast! Choices include sandwiches, burritos, platters (including a tri-tip platter), and scrambles. Mmmm! Now, for a limited time, all breakfast burritos are just $3! Buckhorn Grill is located on Street Level in Four Embarcadero Center.

Peet's Coffee & Tea

Peet's Single Cups for Keurig Users. Now you can enjoy your favorite coffee straight from your Keurig! Peet's Coffees are bold, distinctive, and now, convenient. Visit Peet's Coffee & Tea on Street Level in Two Embarcadero Center and pick up a cup or two today! Movies at EC

GNC Member Program

Enjoy Free Membership For a limited time that includes:

- Up to 50% Off Every Item
- Every Day New, Unbeatable Low Prices*
- Simplified Pricing Makes
- Shopping Easier

GNC is located on Street Level in Four Embarcadero Center.

Hyatt Regency

Alcatraz: Life on the Rock. Alcatraz Cruises brings the "Alcatraz: Life on the Rock" traveling exhibit at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco! Stop by and explore the exhibit anytime from May 1st until October 25th. And don't worry, while it may look like the real Alcatraz, visitors are free to come and go as they please. :)

Spa Vitale

Need a Little CPR (Corporate Pressure Relief)? Your health and well-being can be stifled by job stress. Relieve yourself of some of that corporate pressure with revitalizing services at Spa Vitale. Their skin care treatments, therapeutic massages, and healing bathing ritual will resuscitate your vitality and bring your energy back to life. With a current corporate ID, Spa Vitale offers all employees of Boston Properties/Embarcadero Center 25% off individual services and 15% off products from now until December 31, 2013.*

*Not applicable toward packages or gift cards. To book appointments for regular relaxation, please call 415.278.3788 or email dearspavitale@jdvhotels.com. Visit www.spavitale.com for more info on making the most of your life by making stress the least of your problems.

Exploratorium Parking

Park & "Explore" for Just $10! The Exploratorium is now open at Pier 15 on the Embarcadero. Their new home offers more than just breathtaking views of the city and the bay. It�s also situated in downtown San Francisco, just steps from Embarcadero Center. Exploratorium visitors can park at Embarcadero Center parking lots (about a 10- to 15-minute walk) for a $10 flat rate (subject to availability).

At the Farmers' Market
May 18

Fri, 17 May 2013 15:12:08 -0700

FERRY PLAZA FARMERS' MARKET
Center for Urban Education about Sustainable Agriculture (CUESA)
(http://www.cuesa.org/)

THIS WEEK'S SHOPPING LIST:

Breakfast radishes
Bintje potatoes

Bronze fennel
Brooks cherries
Strawberries
Zucchini
Savoy cabbage
Padron peppers
Snow peas
Blue cheese

Special Events and Announcements

Ferry Plaza Farmers Market 20th Birthday Bash ~ Tomorrow
Celebrate 20 years of good food and friends tomorrow at the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market. We are bringing together the farmers, food artisans, chefs, and supporters (YOU!) who have made it such an incredible place for the last two decades. From 9 am to noon there will be a special reception with farmers market mimosas and seasonal shortcakes (see below), and at 11 am a presentation by market founders. We'll also have a free market-wide treasure hunt (visit the Info Booth to play). Celebrate with us.

Market Watch: Seasonal Shortcakes at the Birthday Bash
To whet your appetite for tomorrow's 20th Anniversary Birthday Bash, here's a taste of the sumptuous shortcake menu, created by local pastry chefs and featuring seasonal produce from the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market:

-- ShortcakeGinger and Thyme Shortcake with Kumquats, Strawberries, and Honey Saison Beer Foam (pictured at right) by Francis Ang of Fifth Floor
-- Almond, Blueberry, and Meiwa Kumquat Shortcake with Isle of Gold Curry by William Werner of Craftsman & Wolves
-- Cornmeal Black Pepper Shortcake with Apache Apricots, Blueberries, Lavender Syrup, and Whipped Cream by Jen Musty of Batter Bakery
-- Black Garlic Shortcake with Whipped Herb Yogurt and Mushrooms by Luis Villavelazquez of Les Elements Patisserie

You'll also have a chance to mix your own seasonal mimosa at our outrageous juice bar! Read more in Lulu Meyer's Market Watch column at 7x7.

Rose Pistola's Last Day at the Market ~ Tomorrow
We are sad to report that Rose Pistola's last day in the market will be tomorrow, May 18. Says owner Laurie Thomas, "Being a participant in the Saturday market has always been a great experience, but realistically it is also a lot of hard work for our employees. Waking up at 5 am to set up our booth by 8 am takes a lot of effort that is really outside of our core restaurant business. After a lot of discussion, our management team has voted to take a break from the Saturday market. We intend to focus on what we do best: continuing to offer locally sourced product from our artisan farmers....What a wonderful time it has been!"

Support John O'Connell High School Students ~ Tomorrow
Local high school students are bringing their school garden produce to the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market as part of Schoolyard to Market, a youth development, entrepreneurship, and gardening program run by CUESA and Urban Sprouts. Pick up vegetables and herbs from John O'Connell High School students at their tent in the south driveway tomorrow�Schoolyard to Market's last day of the spring season. All proceeds will be reinvested in the school garden program.

Ferry Plaza Farmers Market in San Francisco Chronicle!
Extra, extra! The San Francisco Chronicle recently dedicated a large portion of the Food & Wine section to the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market's 20th anniversary, with interviews from farmers, chefs, visionaries, and shoppers who have shaped the market over the years, plus seasonal recipes featuring produce from some of our long-time farmers, including Eatwell Farm, Everything Under the Sun, and Tierra Vegetables. Read the feature.

CUESA Volunteer Orientation ~ May 29
Help cultivate a healthy food system with us! Volunteers are an integral part of the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market. Join CUESA on Wednesday, May 29, to learn about our numerous volunteer opportunities. From assisting at cooking demos and educational programs to supporting our events, there's no shortage of ways you can get involved. Email volunteer@cuesa.org to RSVP. Learn more and apply.

Homebrewing Class ~ May 30
Learn how to make your own beer from Chris Cohen, founder of the San Francisco Homebrewers Guild, in this introductory workshop co-hosted by Urban Kitchen SF and CUESA. You'll learn all the brewing basics, sample different beers, and find out what supplies and ingredients you'll need in order to start brewing at home. Each participant will take home a $40 gift certificate and a coupon for 10% off beer-making supplies at San Francisco Brewcraft. Learn more and sign up.

Food, Farms, and Fracking in California Panel ~ June 12
Hydraulic fracturing, or "fracking," is a highly controversial process for extracting oil and gas that has raised serious environmental and public health concerns across the country. Unknown to most, fracking has been happening in California for several decades without clear regulatory oversight. California's 81,000 farms produce an annual $43 billion in crops that feed not only our state, but also the nation and the world. What will happen to the food supply if our farmland is fracked? Join CUESA and Kitchen Table Talks for a panel discussion with local experts. RSVP.

Market to Table Programs

All programs take place in the CUESA Classroom, south of the clocktower, near the Veggie Valet.

Saturday, May 18 ~ Ferry Plaza Farmers Market 20th Birthday Bash
Mimosa9:00 am - 12:00 pm - Celebrate 20 years of the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market at a very special reception in the south arcade of the Ferry Building, with seasonal shortcakes, mimosas, juices, coffee, and tea. Enjoy a photo exhibit of the market and share your memories. Market founders will speak at 11 am. Buy tickets.
9:00 am - 2:00 pm - FREE market-wide 20th anniversary treasure hunt with prizes. Visit the Info Booth to play.

Saturday, May 25
11:00 am - Seasonal cooking demonstration - Rick Koplau, Lone Eagle Grille
12:00 pm - Seasonal cooking demonstration & book signing - Anna Derivi-Castellanos and Lenore Estrada, Three Babes Bakeshop

View a full listing of upcoming events on the CUESA website

San Francisco's Dying Palms Problem Could Have Been Avoided

Fri, 17 May 2013 09:51:09 -0700

Story courtesy SocketSite
www.socketsite.com

May 16, 2013— As a plugged-in reader first reported two years ago:

The [Embarcadero] palms won't be there much longer. The city has fired all their educated arborists. Those who are left trim them to that odd pineapple shape while the fronds are still green and alive. A fusarium-type wilt then infects the palm and it slowly dies. At least 3 have died since the last trimming - that's what killed the dead palms around Justin Herman Plaza.

With twenty-six of the $35,000 trees now infected, the palms have, in fact, been dying in droves ever since our reader's report warned. But according to the Chronicle's report today, the Department of Public Works crew doesn't know how the trees were infected.

An educated arborist is a terrible, and rather expensive, thing to waste.

∙ For The Love (And Hate) Of Palm Trees In San Francisco [SocketSite]

Walking can be dangerous to your health!

Tue, 14 May 2013 10:32:57 -0700

info@walksf.org
(415) 431-WALK
995 Market St. Suite 1450

Hi Walk SF Supporter,

Last August, Edmund Capalla was killed by a red-light running taxi at Eddy and Larkin, one of the city's high-injury corridors. Ever since, Walk SF has been demanding justice. Finally, last Thursday, the District Attorney announced charges against the driver for vehicular manslaughter.

The case is a rare and powerful example of criminal charges for killing a pedestrian, thanks to your support for Walk SF's advocacy.

A new analysis by the Center for Investigative Reporting, on which Walk SF worked closely, found that sixty percent of drivers at fault face no criminal charges. The story hit the SF Chronicle's front page and KQED's Forum, where Walk SF executive director Elizabeth Stampe spoke about this ongoing injustice.

This is why—as a new SF Chronicle editorial just said—it's critical to hold the City accountable for funding and implementing the new Pedestrian Strategy.

Make dangerous streets safer: Make a special gift today to demand action.

And speak up for traffic calming improvements at tonight's Castro Street Community Open House, the Second Street Improvement Project meeting on May 23, and an upcoming Green Connection event on June 11.

Plus, join Walk SF on the next monthly members' walk in June; space is limited; sign up today. Not a member yet? Join now.

Our SOMA neighbors are mad!

Mon, 13 May 2013 15:22:20 -0700

Jamie Whitaker, Publisher
Rincon Hill newsletter
www.rinconhillsf.org/

Rincon Hill Neighborhood News

Greetings Neighbors and Friends,

Rincon Hill Residents Treated Like Suckers
Yet Again by SF City Government

Remember the 5 community meetings at the Sailors' Union and The Infinity hosted by Isabel Wade and Corinne Woods in the fall of 2009 and early 2010 where you and I helped to design our first non-dog community park?

Well, Rincon Hill Park is half built now (minus some playground equipment and other stuff) in front of Rincon Green apartments at 333 Harrison Street. There's one tiny problem with us using the park we helped design ... it can only be used by residents of Rincon Green because the City of San Francisco's Parks Manager is unwilling to accept the donation of the park and to provide the liability insurance in case someone got hurt while letting their dog do its business in the dog poddy area or a kid fell off a bench while his parent was text messaging or whatever with their iPhone in Rincon Hill Park.

Rincon Hill Park Residents Only Sign

There was an article about the situation in last Monday's (May 6, 2013) San Francisco Chronicle, on the front page of the paper no less (it was shared by SF Curbed, if you wish to read it in full). Recreation and Parks Director Phil Ginsburg is quoted as saying, "We want as much open space as possible, but we also need to have a way to care for it."

The funny thing is that from the $28 million or so in growing annual Prop 13 1% base property taxes we pay in Rincon Hill (this is excluding the override portion of 0.1691% in FY12-13 that pays for things like the Parks Bonds and other voter-approved GO bonds), nearly $700 thousand went directly to San Francisco's Recreation and Parks Department to pay for maintaining neighborhood parks as required by City Charter Article XVI, Section 16.107 (that's called a set aside to SPUR members and others who follow such things).

As more buildings go up in Rincon Hill, I suspect our 12 blocks of NON-Redevelopment parcels will be contributing over $1 million every year just to the Recreation and Parks Department. Right now, there are no parks maintained by the City's Recreation and Parks Department in Rincon Hill ... and there are only 4 parks (just over 4 acres total) in all of South of Market for the over 40,000 and growing number of residents. But let's keep our focus on Rincon Hill, even though this is just a snapshot of the discrimination happening across the SoMa District by the City.

Phil Ginsburg said, "We also need to have a way to care for it?!?" Are you kidding me?!? It would cost a private company only $30,000 per year to cut the lawn monthly and hose down the playground equipment a couple of times per year at Rincon Hill Park. Let's just assume it would cost the City 3x's that amount ... $90,000 per year. That still leaves over $600,000 - just from the existing buildings on the 12 parcel blocks of Rincon HIll - for them to take and maintain other neighborhood parks while leaving us just a cookie crumb of a liveable community park and public gathering place.

Here's the thing that really bugs me from the way the City happily builds, baby builds in Rincon Hill based upon a plan that talks about "liveability" but refuses to give us any services like a pocket park or resuming 12-Folsom bus service beyond 2nd Street: They're forcing us to drive our cars!

The hypocrites in City Hall have approved and blessed a "transit-oriented development" neighborhood with no transit services, no parks when we have over 300 kids growing up in our residential buildings, no neighborhood-serving businesses to provide groceries, and they're forcing us to drive our cars to other neighborhoods that DO have those things.

Why's driving bad? I could answer that by pulling out the Dept. of Public Health's Air Pollution maps again and remind you that the levels of carbon and particulate matter around our homes near the Bay Bridge are already at unhealthy levels which increase the probability of cancer, cardiac disease, and asthma. I could remind you that 2-3 pedestrians are hit by cars in San Francisco EVERY SINGLE DAY on average. We've got 9 dead people who dared to walk across the Street since January 1st - that's almost as many murders as we've had in San Francisco since the start of the year. All I really need to do, though, is ask you why you probably moved to the Rincon Hill neighborhood to start with - a good portion of us moved here in the hopes of not needing to use our cars very often. Why are we being so punished when we paid out the nose to join the "car-free" lifestyle?

I posted a lot more detail and links here if you want to feel the level of anger that I'm feeling about this matter. My role here is the same as usual - inform neighbors of the abuse and discrimination by City Hall, and hope that I successfully agitate a few of you to decide to do something about it like go to the Mayor's Budget Forum this evening (May 13th) at 6pm at the Main Library (100 Larkin) in Koret Auditorium and let 'em have it. You could send emails to MayorEdwinLee@sfgov.org about it.

With the track record of cutting our 12-Folsom bus service, refusing to accept the donation of Rincon Hill Park from Emerald Fund, and meanwhile taking $28 million and growing of 1% Prop 13 base property taxes out of our neighborhood's pockets each year, how can anyone trust that anything the City is saying about helping to ease the pain and harm to our health of MORE traffic congestion and 3 million more people walking through our neighborhood as part of the Warriors Arena on Piers 30-32 is true? Our part of town may as well be in the City of Detroit when it comes to the lack of city services - except for the fact that our 12 blocks are paying over $28 million (and growing) per year in base 1% property taxes!

Here's a look at OUR design for Rincon Hill Park -
the park we're locked out of because the City is treating us like suckers
who just pay more and more money to a government that treats us like
second-class citizens. I'm so livid about this as a resident of the Rincon neighborhood.

Weekly Police Report
May 10, 2013

Sat, 11 May 2013 09:11:13 -0700

Central Police District
766 Vallejo Street

Garret Tom, Captain
Central Station: 415.315-2480
Garret.tom@sfgov.org
NON-EMERGENCY: 553-0123

CENTRAL DISTRICT NEWSLETTER

Captain�s Message
Our hearts and prayers go out to former Olympic Gold Medalist Andrew Simpson who was killed yesterday as his catamaran capsized on the bay near Treasure Island. Simpson and his team were practicing for the America�s Cup Races. He was trapped underwater by the boat for ten minutes.

This morning at approximately 3:00am the iconic Forbes Floating Island Restaurant near Pier 39 suffered a major fire. When fire crews arrived the water hoses connected to the pier were not long enough to combat the flames. The SFFD fire boat had to be dispatched to put out the blaze. To reach the restaurant patrons had to take a short boat ride to access the restaurant which resembles a small lighthouse. I am told there was also under water dining. Never been there but saw featured stories on the Island.

Kudos go out to the Pier 39 Security Team. Yesterday afternoon there were two shoplifters who went into the Krazy Kaps store and stole several clothing items. Pier 39 security detained two suspects and searched them; one of the perpetrators had a loaded .380 handgun with six rounds of ammunition in his pocket. The Security Chief of Pier 39 Security is retired SFPD Captain, Dan McDonaugh.

The anti-auto burglary team was in full force last weekend in the Fisherman�s Wharf Area. They arrested seven suspects for breaking into parked cars. The plainclothes officers followed four suspects as they all appeared to look into parked vehicles in the area of Beach and Polk Streets. One of the suspects was carrying a basketball, using it as a prop. The officers observed one of the suspect�s break a car window. The suspect then went inside the SUV. All suspects got into a Gold Jaguar and drove off.

As the suspects stopped at a gas station the plainclothes officers arrested them. Suspect 1 had marijuana on him, Suspect 2 had a parole warrant for grand theft, Suspect 3 was on active felony probation and suspect 4 was also on felony probation for burglary.

The next day the plainclothes team saw a man breaking into a Mini Cooper with a window punch. The suspect removed two backpacks and a cell phone from the car. Officers identified themselves and ordered the suspect to stop, and after a brief foot chase the suspect gave up. His accomplice was immediately taken into custody. Also on the weekend the plainclothes officers saw a familiar face casing all the parked cars along the waterfront. Officers have arrested this guy numerous times and his m.o. (method of operation) was to enter parked cars that were left unlocked.

The officers watched this guy peek into hundreds of cars along the waterfront. Finally the officers did not want to waste hours following him so they left their own undercover car parked and unlocked. The unmarked car had an I-pad in the vehicle. The suspect approached the police car and opened the driver�s door of the unmarked police vehicle and removed the Ipad computer. He was placed under arrest on the 500 block of Beach Street. He is currently on court probation for burglary.

Go Warriors! I hope they come back to San Francisco soon and come back with a championship even sooner!

Be safe, Captain Garret Tom

The Community Meeting takes place on the third Wednesday of every month. The next meeting is scheduled for May 15th, 5:30pm. It will be held at Central Police Station.

CRIME SUMMARY

On 05/02/2013 at 12:30 am a garbage can in front of 2 Campton Place was set on fire. The fire department responded and put the fire out, and nothing else was damaged.

On 05/02/2013 at 2:25 pm two women were arrested for shopping at several stores along Pier 39 using counterfeit traveler�s checks. For information on the legitimacy of travelers checks, CLICK HERE.

On 05/03/2013 at 2:07 am police responded to Pizelle�s at 314 Columbus Avenue regarding a fight. When police arrived, they encountered an intoxicated man who was belligerently shouting and taunting at the employees. When police detained the man for public intoxication, they discovered that the man had an outstanding warrant. The man was placed under arrest.

On 05/03/2013 at 9:00 pm officers arrested a man for smashing the window of a vehicle that was parked on Grant Avenue and Fresno Alley.

On 05/04/2013 at 12:40 pm police detained a woman for attempting to shoplift at the Embarcadero Centers� Ann Taylor. During the detention police discovered that the woman had a warrant and placed her under arrest.

On 05/04/2013 at 2:55 pm undercover officers were conducting surveillance in the area of North Point Street and Stockton Street. The officers saw a man walking quickly down the street, carrying several bags. The man kept looking back over his shoulder. The officers believed that the man may have been involved in a vehicle break-in, and followed the bus while other officers searched the area for boosted vehicles. During the investigation it was discovered that the man had just walked onto a tour bus, stealing many of the items that were left aboard. The man was arrested, and all of the items were returned.

On 05/05/2013 at 2:15 am officers were in the area of Broadway Street and Columbus Avenue then they saw a group of people causing a disturbance on the corner. When the officers got closer, they saw a man trying to start a fight with another man. The police stepped in break up the confrontation. One of the men decided that he still wanted to fight, and told the police that he would �kick the others guys a**� in front of them. The police immediately placed the man under arrest.

On 05/06/2013 at 10:22 pm officers saw a vehicle run the red light on Broadway Street and Front Street. When the officer pulled the vehicle over, they discovered that the driver had an outstanding warrant, and placed him under arrest.

On 05/09/2013 at 1:00 pm a man was doing his laundry at the Laundromat at 639 Hyde Street when three men walked in, attacked him, and took his money. The men fled the scene before police were able to respond. The men are described as follows: The first suspect is a 22-24 year old black male, 5�5��, 170 lbs. He was last seen wearing a red jacket with white stripes. The second suspect is a 30-40 year old black female, 5�3��, 200 lbs. The third suspect is a 30-35 year old black female, 5�3��, 160 lbs.

On 05/09/2013 at 1:07 pm a man was arrested for entering the Westin Saint Francisco, where he DID NOT HAVE a room, stole a room key from a cleaning cart, went inside of an unoccupied room, and emptied the mini-bar.

For information on upcoming events please visit the following:
http://northbeachbusinessassociation.com/site/
http://sfrecpark.org/

San Francisco Needs You!
There are many ways you can contribute to public safety, including anonymously, if you prefer. Here are some things you can do to help.

Stay updated on the crimes happening in your neighborhood
Though the newsletter provides a highlight of weekly activity, you have access to a more in-depth view. Click here for links to crime maps, public safety advisories and more. You may use this information to coax your neighbors into starting a neighborhood watch, or installing security cameras. Visit www.sfsafe.org for more information. In addition, SFSAFE can come out to your home or business and walk you through a security assessment, and help make recommendations to improving the security of your area. It�s a great, proactive tool.

Local AA Meetings
Alcoholics Anonymous offers meetings at various times of the day, at various locations. If you, or somebody you know, is looking for support while getting sober, there are some convenient locations near North Beach:
Ariana Caf�, 842 Geary Street, every Friday at 3:00pm, 4:30pm, and 6:00pm
88 6th Street (at Mission Street) every Friday at 6:30 pm
First Place, 410 Ellis Street, Friday at 5:30 pm
For a complete listing, please CLICK HERE

Students interested in law enforcement � apply to the PAL Academy and Internship Program � time requirement, intensive Applications are available for the 2013 PAL Law Enforcement Cadet Academy and Internship Program. The PAL Cadet program includes an intensive 4-week Summer Cadet Academy (June-July) followed by an SFPD station internship and community service (August through May.) Participants may stay in the program for as many years as they are eligible. Eligibility: must be between ages 14-20, be enrolled in high school or college, have and maintain a 2.0 GPA, reside or attend school in San Francisco and pass a criminal history background check. Download Applications and additional flyers (English and Spanish) at www.sfpal.org/cadets. Questions? Contact Lorraine@sfpal.org or 415-401-4669

Q&A from Cathie

Tue, 7 May 2013 18:13:42 -0700

by Cathie Hehman*

Q: I'm going to a big hoopla wine tasting (France vs. Australia) event where there will be lots of who's who in our area.
It's an evening event with men wearing sport coats w/no tie but a full course meal. It's not a cocktail event but the ladies are saying "Vineyard Casual." Sooooo, what should I wear? Not too familiar with "Vineyard Casual!"

A: Since the attire described is Vineyard Casual, think casual. Pants or designer jeans and a classic shirt or T-shirt with a blazer or jacket would look good. Add a piece of statement jewelry or a soft scarf around your neck and wear wedge or pump style shoes. Another option would be a sheath dress and cardigan.

It's almost always exciting and fun when a party invitation arrives. However, sooner or later we have to start thinking about what we'll wear. When types of dress codes are indicated such as "smart casual," "semi-formal," "vineyard casual," "festive," "cocktail chic" as examples, it can throw us for a loop. Where should one begin to interpret what any of these dress codes mean?

The best strategy: If possible, check with the host or hostess regarding what their dress code means, or check with other friends that you know have been invited to the party. See how they're interpreting the invitation dress code. Usually daytime functions are more casual and evening events are more dressy

1) Can you tell if the party is casual or formal (Bar-B-Q or cocktail party or dinner)?

2) Is it a daytime or evening event (brunch, lunch, or dinner)?

3) Where is the party being held (a restaurant, friend's home, or country club)?

4) What type of affair or event is specified (a wedding shower in the afternoon, dinner dance or a brunch)?

No need to stress out. Answers to the questions above will help you make the right clothing choices no matter what the dress code is. Keep in mind, it's better to be under-dressed than over-dressed.

More questions & answers

SUNDAY MORNING SMELLS
A Mother's Day Memory

Mon, 6 May 2013 10:22:51 -0700

Cathy Fiorello, resident

The Gateway

Growing up in an Italian family during the Great Depression, I have no recollection of my mother sleeping. She went to bed at night after I did and got up before me the next morning to start breakfast and prepare the family for our day at school or work. In my young mind, mothering was a 24-hour job.

"Sunday Morning Smells" is excerpted from Cathy's latest book, Al Capone Had a Lovely Mother, available now at Book Passages inside the Ferry Building or at Amazon.com

On Sunday, when the rest of us slept in, she was up even earlier than usual, filling the house with what I will always think of as Sunday morning smells. The long process of making the gravy for that day�s macaroni dinner, often because of our different schedules the only time during the week we were all together for a meal, was an inflexible ritual.

It always started with browning cloves of garlic in olive oil poured from a gallon can with holes that had been punctured with an ice pick in two diagonal corners. Imported Italian oil was a staple in our kitchen, purchased from our neighborhood Italian provisions store. This Mecca for serious Italian cooks, with the pungent smells of its prepared foods, the walls lined with imported pastas in every shape, its deli counter where pricey prosciutto was sliced so thin it was almost translucent, then laid tenderly between sheets of waxed paper�was a valued vestige of life in the old country carried to the new and passed down to generations of children who still honor it. No matter how �Americanized� we�ve become, our cheese is still from Parma; our tomatoes, no longer preserved at home, are canned in Italy and cross the Atlantic to our tables.

Our immigrant mothers who shopped here were demanding customers; they knew exactly what they wanted and accepted no substitutes. They had their favorite counterman who paid special attention to their needs. In my mother�s case, it was Sal who sliced the salami and provolone for our Saturday lunches just the way she wanted, and ground the wedge of parmesan that went into our Sunday meatballs. The key to memorable meals at our house was in his expert hands. My siblings and I�we were five�would gather around my mother as she unpacked those weekend treats. Some families revere their doctors. Our family revered Sal.

Back to Sunday morning. When the garlic gave up its essence, its work was done. My mother removed it from the pot and added a diced onion. Wakened by the first pungent whiffs of garlic and onion, I�d remember it was Sunday then drift back to sleep, but my mother�s work at the stove was just beginning.

She assembled the essential meats. Links of pork sausage and fleshy spare ribs, each with its own flavor and tantalizing aroma, were lightly browned in the oil and removed from the pot. Jars of crushed tomatoes, preserved at home the previous fall by my mother and her sisters, their aprons and hands stained red for days, were poured into the pot. Fresh basil leaves from our garden and a generous sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese were added, the meat was returned to the pot and the pot was covered. The scene was set for the next stage�the hours-long simmering on low heat, carefully watched and stirred to prevent burning.

At this point, my mother would step away from the stove and set the table for breakfast. Only then did she allow herself to sit with a cup of coffee. But not for long; it was time to make the meatballs. All the ingredients�ground meat, eggs, breadcrumbs, cheese�were measured into a bowl and squished together with her sturdy hand until the mixture turned a dark pink and bore no lumps. Sometimes, if I was up early, I�d join her in the kitchen.

�Can I do the squishing?� I�d ask.

She would reply, �You�re not ready yet.�

I didn�t know what that meant at the time. But she did show me how to roll the meat into balls between the palms of my hands. Standing side by side at the kitchen table, my head barely reaching her waist, we�d roll all the mixture.

�Stand back from the stove,� she�d say, so I wouldn�t be burned by splattering oil as she dropped the balls, evenly spaced, into a heavy frying pan, blackened with use and age, one of my mother�s treasured cooking utensils. The immediate sizzle and pop, followed by irresistible aromas, woke the whole family. I defy anyone to sleep through the frying of meatballs, one of the most mouth-watering smells to come out of any kitchen. When the first batch was evenly brown and crispy, she�d say, �Get a fork. The first one is for you.�

My husband, also Italian, has similar Sunday memories. He, too, from early childhood, woke to the Sunday smells of his mother�s cooking. He, too, considered his mother�s meatballs better than anybody else�s, an Italian family test of loyalty that persists into adulthood. After both our mothers had passed on, it was a long time before Sunday morning smells enticed my family out of bed. I tried, over and over again, but couldn�t get it right. My gravy was either too thin, or it was lumpy; my meatballs were sinkers. I was tempted to quit trying, but if I didn�t preserve this tradition, who would? I�d remember things my mother had told me�basically the importance of using authentic Italian ingredients. I can still hear her say emphatically, �No Kraft�s cheese!�

I also remembered her telling me when I was a child that I wasn�t ready to take on this motherly task. I could see her clearly, standing at her stove, hair pulled into a tight bun; a big, boxy apron tied around her ample form�working so lovingly to please her family. I wanted to do that for my family. When would I be ready? I wondered. I identified with the young Italian wife in the movie �Prizzi�s Honor,� who was told to go home and practice her meatballs.

I did. And, with practice, came success. I knew I was ready to fill the Sunday morning void left by our mothers the first time my husband came downstairs, followed his nose to the kitchen, took a deep breath, and said, �It smells like Sunday in here.�

BCNA Annual Meeting June 2

Sun, 5 May 2013 09:08:55 -0700

Hope to see you at
The BCNA Annual Meeting & Sunday Social
with Presentation By
The America's Cup Event Authority CEO, Stephen Barclay

5A5 Steak Lounge
244 Jackson St
Sunday, June 2, 2013
3-5 pm Note
Complimentary Appetizers
Happy Hour Drinks $5.00

Stephen Barclay will catch us up with the latest from the America's Cup.
Note the time - 3:00 to 5:00
NO RSVP's required. We look forward to seeing you there!
Sponsored by the Barbary Coast Neighborhood Association
Click Here to Join the BCNA

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Sat, 4 May 2013 16:54:00 -0700

Check out GGT&SC's wonderful kids' summer program

If you'd like to have your photo posted on our weekly Calendar listing, please send a jpeg of your photo to editor@sfbcnews.com . For a listing of monthly events, please click on Read More (below). To list your event, please send information to editor@sfbcnews.com

MONTH OF MAY

Thurs., May 16
Makini Howell, 6:00pm, Plum(Events at Book Passage in San Francisco, One Ferry Building, (415) 835-1020)

Fri., May 17
San Francisco Grotto Writers, 6:00pm, 3 Minute Reads(Events at Book Passage in San Francisco, One Ferry Building, (415) 835-1020)

May 18
Armed Forces Day

Mon., May 20
Ethan Rutherford, 6:00pm, The Peripatetic Coffin(Events at Book Passage in San Francisco, One Ferry Building, (415) 835-1020)

Tues., May 21
Jon Mooallem, 6:00pm, Wild Ones> (Events at Book Passage in San Francisco, One Ferry Building, (415) 835-1020)

Wed., May 22
Nathaniel Philbrick, 6:00pm, Bunker Hill(Events at Book Passage in San Francisco, One Ferry Building, (415) 835-1020)

Thurs., May 23,
San Francisco Magazine, 7:30pm, June "Author Issue" Release Party(Events at Book Passage in San Francisco, One Ferry Building, (415) 835-1020)

Fri., May 24
Wendy Williams, 1:00pm, Ask Wendy(Events at Book Passage in San Francisco, One Ferry Building, (415) 835-1020)

May 27
Memorial Day

Thurs., May 30,
Maggie Oman Shannon, 6:00pm, Crafting Calm(Events at Book Passage in San Francisco, One Ferry Building, (415) 835-1020)

Fri., May 31
Ryan McIlvain, 6:00pm, Elders(Events at Book Passage in San Francisco, One Ferry Building, (415) 835-1020)

MONTH OF JUNE

June 9
Sunday Street Southern Waterfront � Bayview/Dogpatch

June 16
San Francisco Marathon. Start: Embarcadero/Mission. Finish: Embarcadero/Folsom. Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K Run/Walk. For information, please visit: http://www.thesfmarathon.com

MONTH OF JULY

July 4 to August 30
The Louis Vuitton Cup, Waterfront. The Challenger will have to win the Louis Vuitton Cup to earn the right to race the Defender in the 34th America�s Cup. For information, please visit: http://www.americascup.com/

July 4
Opening of the 34th America�s Cup

July 4
4th of July Fireworks. Aquatic Park and Pier 39

July 4-August 30
34th America�s Cup Louis Vuitton Challenger Series

MONTH OF AUGUST

August 4
The Giant Race - Half marathon, 10K, 5K

August 9
San Francisco Mini Relay For Life, Herb Caen Way. Fundraiser for American Cancer Society. For information, contact: Danny Cone (707) 416-7696 or please visit http://www.relayforlife.org/

MONTH OF SEPTEMBER

September 1-4
Red Bull Youth America�s Cup Finals

September 3
JP Morgan Chase Corporate Challenge

September 3
Reopening Celebration of the Bay Bridge

September 3-6
North American Disabled Sailing Championship at South Beach Harbor

September 4
JP Morgan Chase Corporate Challenge, Embarcadero, Pier 48. Series of 3.5 mile road footraces promoting fitness in the workplace. For information, contact: Marc Staudenbaur (415) 425-5749

September 7-21
America�s Cup Finals, Waterfront. The 34th America�s Cup brings the competition for the oldest trophy in international sport back to the United States of America for the first time in 18 years. For information, please visit: http://www.americascup.com/

September 28
Avon Walk for Breast Cancer, Embarcadero, Fundraiser for Avon Breast Cancer
crusade. For information, contact: Jessica Coulombe (415) 834-0404, ext. 18 or please visit http://www.avonwalk.org/

MONTH OF OCTOBER

October 6,
Glide Floss Bridge to Bridge, Embarcadero. 35th annual Bridge to Bridge Run. For information, contact: Nancy Nobriga (415) 759-2690 or please visit: http://www.bridgetobridge.com/

October 11-14, 2013
Fleet Week, Waterfront. Fleet Week Activities. For information, contact: Stephen Teatro (360) 696-0112 or please visit: http://www.fleetweek.us/

October 20
Nike Women�s Marathon

MONTH OF DECEMBER

December 31
New Year�s Eve Fireworks, Pier 14, 2013 Midnight. Fireworks. For information, contact: TBA