Union Square Cristmas 2007

You have to go down to Union Square at night before the holidays are over.

Lefty Odoul's is a good place to start for a quick meal and a drink. Comfy booths and old time pictures.

John Burton's 75th birthday

Birthday Celebration and Fundraiser for John Burton's 75th Birthday. The Fundraiser was for the John Burton Foundation for Children without Homes which was held at the Fairmont Hotel last night.

Evening started out with music from singer Keely Smith who was a smash hit in the late 50's with her husband at the time Louis Prima. (there big hit was "Old Black Magic"). I love her music and her voice was gorgeous and she looked great.
Matthew Rothschild was so proud that he got his 33/1/3 Kelly Smith record album signed by Keely Smith. Keely Smith and John Burton met while John Burton was a bartender at Bimbo's - they are old friends.

John Burton's daughter Kimiko Burton and her two children introduced John Burton. As always John Burton did not mince words, he was straightforward and it is obvious that he cares very much about foster children in California.

The foundation hands out grants every year for over $1,000,000 to take care of needs for foster children. Foster children loose their benefits at 18 years old. The Foundation helps kids until they are 21. Projects include "Backpack to College" project with backpack, laptop, gift cards, textbooks and school supplies.

Burton's good buddy Tommy Smothers spoke - can you believe Tommy Smothers is 71 years old!

It is nice to see someone with Burton's connections take on an issue that has been neglected. He is helping reverse the "stereotype perception" regarding foster children.

Attendees included Gary Radnich from Channel Four , Assemblywoman Fiona Ma, Alicia Wang candidate for Supervisor in District One, Claudine Cheng candidate for Supervisor in District Three. Susan P. Kennedy, Arnold Schwarzenegger's Chief of Staff was there along with California Democratic Chair Art Torres, Ex-Supervisor Jim Gonzales, State Senator Carole Migden, Assemblyman Mark Leno, Jeff and Sandy Mori, Port Commissioner Mike Hardeman, Agar Jaicks, Community College Board Member Julio Ramos, Supervisor Ross Mirkarimi. Also attending were long time supporters Sharon Johnson, Jeannie Maher and Jane Morrison.

Information: John Burton Foundation for Children without Homes, 235 Montgomery Street, Suite 1142 San Francisco, Ca. 94104. Phone: 415-348-0011, www. johnburtonfoundation.org

Pictures: John Burton, Johnny Carter, Gary Radnich, Tommy Smothers, Matthew Rothschild

Homeless Community Meeting - Sunset

Supervisor Carmen Chu held a community meeting at the Sunset Recreation Center regarding homeless in the sunset.
The turnout was outstanding. I admire Supervisor Chu for calling this meeting now during the holiday season giving a signal to City Government that she is serious. She was strong, well prepared and very impressive.
The police, homeless department were there. Supervisor Chu announced five new police officers to be assigned the the Taraval Police Department.
The audience spoke about their neighborhoods, about family values and the fear of being accosted. There was discussion of the difference between homeless and drug addicts who come from other parts into the Sunset and attack people - especially women. This is not a pleasant story.

By bringing everyone together it begins the organizing effort as a community as a whole.
An interesting dynamic was a homeowner in the area put up a petition on the Internet (www.thepetitionsite.com) for people to show their concern "the residents of the Sunset District ask Mayor Gavin Newsom and the Board of Supervisors to please help save the middle class families of the Sunset District. We have one of the largest concentrations of families with children in San Francisco, and we ask that we are not overlooked when rebuilding our playgrounds, parks and facilities. If we want to stop the exodus of families moving out of San Francisco, we need to make it a hospitable place for the residents. We are concerned about our safety after learning about the recent attack on the German student on Judah Street, a major shopping street in the Sunset". As of tonight there were 144 signatures on that petition. If you go on the website you will see signatures have the capability of attaching their comment to the petition (this is a wonderful organizing tool.) The women who put this petition spoke at the meeting, and afterwards all the press went over to talk to her.

The audience was reminded to call 311. You can also call two cell numbers 415-203-6643 and 415-203-9968 which are cell numbers directly to homeless staff on duty.

The police department, the homeless department and park and rec are working together to resolve problems like bushes and trees that need to be pared down, unlawful parking of vehicles and the homeless on the streets.

Included in the audience was Francis Tsang from from Mayor's Office, Bob Twomey from Assemblywoman Fiona Ma's office, Ron Dudum and Doug Chan.

Resources:

Supervisor Carmen Chu, carmen.chu@sfgov.org, phone 415-554-7460; Colleen Crowley - Legislative Aide colleen.crowley@sfgov.org, phone 415-554-7460 and Katy Tang, Legislative Aide Katy.Tang@sfgov.org phone: 415-554-7460 Address: City Hall 1 Dr Carlton B. Goodlett Place, Room 244, San Francisco, Ca. 94122.

San Francisco Safe, 850 Bryant Street #135, San Francisco, Ca. 94103 415-673-SAFE www.sfsafe.org

San Francisco Outreach Team: 415-203-6643

All SF City Dept. Service 311

United Way Helplink - all SF social services directory 211

HOT (Homeless Outreach Team) contact numbers 415-203-6643 and 415-203-9963

Irish American Democratic Club Holiday Party

Pictures: Eileen Kivlehand and Claudine Cheng
John Behanna

Huge party. Great success! Everyone wanted to come see Eileen Kivlehand's home. Eileen has the best home for parties including a beautiful roof garden looking over Golden Gate Bridge (near Irving Street) and two adorable cats.

The President of the Club is Jeannie Maher. The Club is famous for having fun parties and they had an open bar! Half the proceeds from the party went to St. Anthony Foundation.

Who was everyone talking about? Gerardo Sandoval. Yup, he was there. Looking very distinguished these days. People were also talking about Jackie Speier versus Congressman Tom Lantos, and course the president race.

Other attendees included Jose Cisneros, our City Treasurer; Assessor Phil Ting, Patrick Doyle for State Senator Carole Migden; Claudine Cheng possible candidate for Supervisor in District 3; Alicia Wang who is a candidate for Supervisor in District One; Bob Twomey Chief of Staff for Assemblywoman Fiona Ma; Assemblyman Mark Leno; the beloved Patty Moran at the door; Harriet Isihomoto, Lorrie Kalos President of Democratic Women's Forum, David Strand, Clay Harrell, Julie Soo, Scott Weiner, Connie O'Connor. Jane Morrison, Joan Simmons, Nancy Larsen, Susan Maher, Ben Tom, Gary O'Rourke and John O'Riordan.

Carol Ruth Silver was there - we talked about Rent Control and how Carol and Harvey Milk were responsible for getting through Rent Control for San Francisco (with the help of Angelo Sangiacomo - who is still in the news!).

Yes, I learned something last night, but I am not the Drudge Report, you are going to have to wait to hear the news . Things are slow right now, but 2008 is going to be crazy!

"Save the News"!/ Upper Market Workshop

"Save the News"! A conversation about journalism and democracy.
Panel discussion at CounterPulse last night.
Carl Hall (Chronicle science reporter and organizer for Northern California Media Workers (leave of absense from Chronicle in order to organize workers)
Rose Aguilar (KALW-FM, Your Call radio)
Barry Parr (Coastsider.com and co-founder of Mercury Center and News.com)
Michael Stoll (Grade the News, SJSU, San Francisco Public Press )
Josh Wilson (Newsdesk.org).

Everyone agreed this is a depressing subject. The panelists and even the audience did not all agree.
Discussion about organizing the East Bay ."One Big Bang" - onebigbang.org in regards to organizing within MediaNews Group.
There was discussion about the relevance of the news being reported and how radio fills a void (especially in regards to foreign news).
One person said it was not the internet that is the cause for the problems of newspapers but television. (Craigs' list doesn't help).
A number of people were feeling encouraged because different avenues are being taken (i.e. new newspapers on the internet and even the possibility that there could be a online "public newspaper") i.e. KQED. (This sounds like a great idea - I think people in San Francisco would pay for an online newspaper if they thought they were getting "San Francisco news").

A number of people said we should demand more from the major media. The Chronicle only has 300 employees - out of that there are 60 to 80 reporters. That is why you cannot not depend on the Chronicle for local San Francisco news.
People were asked to raise their hands if they thought that Chronicle was a good paper? Know one raised their hands. They then asked if they wanted the Chronicle to go away. Know one raised their hands. I personally want to help the Chronicle and that is why I try and buy the paper everyday - even though some days (especially Monday's) it is a waste of money.

newsdesk.org;
counterpulse.org;
gradethenews.org;
mediaworkers.org;
kalw.org


Upper Market Workshop-

Meeting held Monday night at Harvey Milk Civil Rights Academy in the Castro. City Planners spent time explaining their vision in regards to Upper Market. There is a certain "planning vocabulary" that you begin to understand after going to these type workshops. The planners talked about livability, pedestrian realm, street-engaging buildings, open space, community serving uses. Most people in this area would probably tell you they like their neighborhood the way it is (but times are changing and it is better to have some "control" over the changes ).
Pedestrian and transit-oriented improvements - traffic calming are a big part of this study. There was very careful wording presented about allowing higher buildings at the intersections - I don't think the neighborhood wants higher density.

Items include rethinking the Safeway site, culture and community uses (which would be great!).
Celebrate the many identities of the area. This plan will take time over many years. At least people are talking about the issues - which is a start.

San Francisco Planning Department c/o Sarah Dennis, 1650 Mission Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, Ca. 94103-2479 - Phone 415-558-6314, http://uppermarket.sfplanning.org

Calendar Items:

December 17th 2007 - Monday

Homeless Community Meeting in the Sunset - 7 p.m. Sunset Recreation Center, 2201 Lawton Avenue (29th Ave. and Lawton). Information: Supervisor Carmen Chu carmen.chu@sfgov.org 415-554-7460

December 18th 2007 - Tuesday

Divisadero Community Workshop - 7 to 9 p.m. Ida B. Wells High School (1099 Hayes Street) to discuss Divisadero Streetscape improvements project including traffic study. Information: www.sfgov.org lisa.zahner@sfgov.org 415-554-6479

OCA 19th Anniversary Awards Dinner

Classy event last night at The Far East Restaurant. OCA - Organization of Chinese Americans had their annual awards dinner "Diversity Through Communication & Service".

Three great honorees:

Jan Yanehiro - You might remember she hosted"Evening Magazine" on KPIX. With this tv program the magazine format for television was born and it was the first show to use video instead of film. Currently she is executive producer and correspondent on "Pacific Fusion" which is a television magazine airing nationally.

Chinese Newcomers Services Center -"one-stop" information/referral agency attempting to meet needs of non-English speaking Chinese families arriving in the United States .

Asian Week - National English-language newsweekly for the Asian Pacific American Community. James Fang accepted the award. Ted Fang and Samson Wong were also there to accept the award.

Sherman Tang, the San Francisco Bay Chapter President welcomed everyone and Claudine Cheng, Past OCA National President and Chair of the OCA National Center Campaign spoke and made a presentation on OCA's National Center.

I sat at a great table, lots of fun and great food! Attendees included Assemblywoman Fiona Ma, Harriet Ishomoto spoke for Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi, Donald Masuda, Lawrence Wong, Bill Barnes, Jim Wachob, David Wong for Mark Leno , Hoover Lee, Bob Dockendorff, Eddie Chin, Jason Chan for Mayor Newsom and Janry Mak for Congressman Tom Lantos, Julie Soo, Frances Hsieh for Carole Migden and Francisco Hsieh.

OCA - San Francisco - Dedicated to advancing the social, political and economic well-being of Asian Pacific Americans in the United States.

c/o Sherman Tang, 17 Walter U. Lum Place, San Francisco, Ca. 94108 415-274-6750 Email: yumyyum28@yahoo.com http://www.ocasfbay.org/

OCA National Office, 1322 18th Street, NW Washington DC 20036-1803 20036 Phone: 202-223-5500 http://www.ocanational.org/

Chinese Newcomers Service Center - http://www.chinesenewcomers.org/. 777 Stockton St. #104 San Francisco, Ca. 94108 cnsc@chinesenewcomers.org

Asian Week , 809 Sacramento Street, San Francisco, Ca. 94108 - asianweek@asianweek.com Phone: 415-397-7258

Harvey Milk LGBT Endorsement Meeting

I am printing two messages from Harvey Milk LGBT Democratic Club members about their endorsement meeting coming up. I am printing them both here. I am not sure what is going on?

Message #2

Harvey Milk LGBT Democratic Club President Brian Basinger publicly misrepresented the position of the HMLGBTDC Executive Board with his recent comment to BAR reporter Matthew Bajko. Basinger derided the vote to go ahead with the December 11 endorsement meeting as an allegedly still unsettled matter.

Yet at the Milk Club Executive Board meeting of November 17, a proposal to resolve the ongoing dispute over the legality of the December 11 meeting was put forward by Peter Wong. It was suggested that Basinger’s decision to recognize an obscure parliamentary objection and his subsequent actions be treated as an error of judgment brought on by the utter chaos of the October 23 Milk Club public meeting. Because of that initial error, the validity of Basinger’s subsequent actions be treated as nullified. Thus, the December 11 meeting could be treated as a scheduled and legal meeting.

When this proposal was offered, Basinger made no objection or modification during the hearty discussion period prior to the vote. The proposal was voted on and approved by a near-unanimous number of Executive Board members with Basinger abstaining.

Democratic meetings run on trust. Attendees implicitly trust that members on the losing side of a meeting vote will respect the result of that vote. The losing side may complain about the result, as is their right.


Basinger’s remarks unfortunately crossed the line from righteous complaint into the realms of public disrespect for the Executive Board and a contempt for the democratic process. No evidence had been offered by him demonstrating malfeasance or even the likelihood of same at that board meeting. Instead, what Basinger has offered is innuendo whose effect is undermining the credibility of the Milk Club Executive Board.

It is not the purpose of this statement to publicly speculate on the motivation behind Basinger’s remarks. Instead, this statement is a public declaration that in this instance Basinger most certainly does not speak on behalf of the Milk Club’s Executive Board.

To allow Basinger’s remarks to go unchallenged would be to allow the Milk Club’s vital political work to be procedurally hamstrung. Given that California’s presidential primary comes in February, the clock is ticking quickly on the Milk Club’s endorsement vote and the publication of endorsement materials. Waiting until January undermines the Club’s ability to effectively spread its message.

We call on eligible Milk Club members to exercise their conscience and come to the Women’s Building on December 11 between 7-9 PM and vote on our February endorsements at the December 11 meeting.

We call on our progressive allies to support our efforts to move beyond personal acrimony and be a unified voice. Basinger has already made clear which path he has chosen to follow. The question is whether he will drag others along with him to disaster.

We the undersigned offer our public apology to our communities for the airing of this internal dispute. Many great challenges await us in the coming year such as the attempt to covertly eliminate rent control in California or the attempt to steal some of California’s electoral votes for the Republican presidential candidate. When the fight to stop these efforts is fully joined, we want our communities to know that the Milk Club will be there on the battlements.

Sincerely,

Peter Wong, Corresponding Secretary Rafael Mandelman, Acting VP PAC Tim Durning, Treasurer Rick Hauptmann, Recording Secretary Morningstar Vancil, Sergeant-at-Arms Shona Gochenaur, Cannabis Caucus Chair Howard Grayson, E-Board Political Chair Krissy Keefer, Feminist Caucus Chair Debra Walker, Tenant & Housing Caucus Chair

Message #1

ENDORSEMENT SCHEDULE

The Harvey Milk Club PAC will meet on Saturday, December 8 at the LGBT Center (in the Ceremonial Room, 4th Floor) from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. to consider and make recommendations for Club endorsements for the February 2008 election (presidential primary and local and state ballot measures) and the June 2008 State Senate primary. Members must have attended the October 2nd PAC meeting, October 23rd General Membership meeting, or November 7 PAC meeting to vote at the December 8 PAC. Members are encouraged to attend the entire PAC meeting; however, they may request a ballot after attending for one hour
.
The Harvey Milk Club general membership will vote on endorsements for the February 2008 election and the June 2008 State Senate primary on Tuesday, December 11 from 7 to 9 pm at the Women’s Building at 3543 18th Street, between Guerrero and Valencia.New members must have joined on or prior to September 25 to be eligible to vote on either December 8 or December 11. Lapsed members whose memberships have expired within the previous six months are eligible to renew and vote at either meeting.

there will not be a PAC meeting on December 4th, and there will not be a general membership meeting on December 25 (for obvious reasons).

Kathy Griffin - Harvey Milk Club

Yes, I went and saw Kathy Griffin at the Masonic Center last night. I am big fan of her reality show. Not only is she outrageous, funny - she says things we think about inside our heads but are afraid to say out loud. The show was sold out for two shows last night. All types of people and ages. When you think about it she was on stage for 1 hour and 45 minutes non stop with no notes. I was on the side so I missed her facial expressions, but she does work hard . She looked great from where I was- small body "big hair".


She touched all the topics, Hillary (hostage situation), Ophrah (she can do a great imitation of Ophrah doing her "favorite things" ), Marie Osmond so funny - fainting, face lift, falling apart, dancing, Donnie. Talked about going to House of Nanking for over 15 years (they still don't know her and she never knows what she is going to get to eat - but it always tastes good). She talked about her boyfriend, Steve Wozniak (co-founder of Apple Computer ) and how that relationship has made a difference when meeting people. No more D list! Her show has just been renewed for another year through Bravo. I admire her hard work and the way she is straight forward and a little wild.



Masonic Center is a great place for a concert (just don't sit on the sides behind the mike). If you have a chance go downtown at night during Christmas, it is so beautiful. The Christmas Tree the lights - gorgeous. The crowds! You couldn't even walk on the sidewalks! It was interesting walking up Sutter Street to Masonic Center. The Academy of Art has basically taken over a huge part of that part of town. You can tell by the Academy of Art big red and black signs on their buildings and that there is a different atmosphere (young adults , some cheaper places to eat and drink - which might be good for San Franciscans who want to eat downtown. ) Take a look around Sutter, Pine and Post Street . Lot's of changes.


Harvey Milk Democratic Club Announcement regarding their endorsement which I have copied and pasted as exactly as published:




ENDORSEMENT SCHEDULE


The Harvey Milk Club PAC will meet on Saturday, December 8 at the LGBT Center (in the Ceremonial Room, 4th Floor) from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. to consider and make recommendations for Club endorsements for the February 2008 election (presidential primary and local and state ballot measures) and the June 2008 State Senate primary. Members must have attended the October 2nd PAC meeting, October 23rd General Membership meeting, or November 7 PAC meeting to vote at the December 8 PAC. Members are encouraged to attend the entire PAC meeting; however, they may request a ballot after attending for one hour.


The Harvey Milk Club general membership will vote on endorsements for the February 2008 election and the June 2008 State Senate primary on Tuesday, December 11 from 7 to 9 pm at the Women’s Building at 3543 18th Street, between Guerrero and Valencia.



New members must have joined on or prior to September 25 to be eligible to vote on either December 8 or December 11. Lapsed members whose memberships have expired within the previous six months are eligible to renew and vote at either meeting.


Reminder: there will not be a PAC meeting on December 4th, and there will not be a general membership meeting on December 25 (for obvious reasons).


Comment: This isn't the first time the San Francisco political community has gone through a tough political season . I remember Jim Foster -( founder of Alice B. Toklas Democratic Club and first openly gay person to speak in front of the Democratic National Convention) screaming (it was the Women's Building - so it must have been a Harvey Milk meeting) "I hope you strangle on your own membership"!

I remember thinking that was a great comeback (especially since there was no computers at the time!) This was during the Agnos/Molinari race (they stacked clubs then as they do now- it's called organizing).

Harvey Milk Club has put alot of effort and time in putting together the process for this election and the carefully worded statement printed above.

Information:

Solem & Associates - New location:
One Daniel Burnham Court, Suite 100-C
San Francisco, Ca. 94109
Phone: 415-788-7788
Fax: 415-788-7858
http://www.solemcom/
solem@solem.com


Hillary Clinton

Received mailing:
Californians for Hillary
600 South La Fayette Park Basement
Los Angeles, Ca. 90057

Los Angeles Office: 213-908-0190

San Francisco Office 415-255-7431

HillaryClinton.com/California

December Political Calendar

December 1, 2007 - Saturday

Better Neighborhood Plan Community Meeting 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California, 1840 Sutter Street. Discussion on findngs on historic and cultural preservation, economic development, open space and building heights. Information: 415-575-9068 japantown@sfgov.org sfplanning.org

Illinois Street Bicycle Lanes - 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Meet at corner of Cesar Chavez and Illinois Streets. Explore the new Illinois Street bridge across Islais Creek and hear about ideas for a separated bicycle path on Cargo Way and a new entrance to Heron's Head Park. Information about Cargo plan plan: see Redevelopment Agency's web.

Bayview 11th Annual Unity Parade and Rally - 12 noon at Loomis and Industrial. Rally begins at 2 p.m. at The Opera House, Grand Marshall, Director of Community Development, Dwayne Jones , Visit from Santa Claus S.F. Information: Rev. Burch @415-240-0313 or Yvonne Johnson at 510-847-0447

"All Over Coffee" Paul Madonna's illustrated musings published by City Lights. SF MOMA. 2 p.m. Information: sfmoma.org

Celebrate Pacifica's 50th Birthday with wine and orchids. Open house at the Shelldance Nursery, 2000 Highway One, Pacifica, Ca. Wine tasting, hors d'oeuvres, Music, Fun, Treasure Hunt, Door Prizes, Orchids. Pacifica items for sale. Benefits The Pacifica Historical Society, 3 to 9 p.m. $15. by mail $20 at door. Price includes 3 tastings in a keepsake. Commemorative wine glass. Sponsored by Bodega del Sur Winery and the Chit chat Cafe. http://www.pacifiariptide.com/

December 2, 2007 Sunday

Alice Waters - 2 to 4 p.m. Cost Plus, Fisherman's Wharf (next to Barnes & Noble). Signing her new book "The Art of Simple Foord".

Winterfest - San Francisco Bicycle Celebration - Party and Fundraiser. Silent Auction, Bike marketplace, art auction and entertainment. 6 to 10:30 p.m. at SOMARTS, Brannan and 8th Street.

December 3, 2007

Monday Lobbyist's Training - City Hall Room 421 12 noon to 1 p.m. Training for lobbyists, their Representatives, the Board of Supervisors, members of the media, department heads, and other interested persons and is designed to explain filing and reporting obligations required by the San Francisco Lobbyist Ordinance. (San Francisco Campaign and Governmental Conduction Code Section 2.100 et seq.) Information: Kristian Ongoco. RSVP by 11-29-2007 415-252-3100

UCSF Hospital Replacement CAG Action Team- 6 to 8 p.m. UCSF Mission Bay Campus, Genentech Hall, Room N-114 600 16th Street. Agenda will focus on traffic analysis and update on exterior design. Information: http://www.planpotrerohillsf.org/

Cultural Institutions RFP Public Meeting - 6:30 p.m. Presidio Officers' Club, 50 Moraga Avenue. Two opportunity sites: a new construction site south of the Parade Ground; and two Montgomery Street Barracks. The RFP follows an offer from Doris and Donald Fisher to build a public museum in the Presidio to display their collection of contemporary art. Information: 415-561-5414. http://www.presidio.gov/

December 4, 2007 Tuesday

SPUR -In depth look at Transit Center Tower. Paul Paradis, Hines Senior Vice President will present proposal in detail and answer questions. 12:30 to 1:30 312 Sutter Street $5. Non-members $5. Information: http://www.spur.org/

Care Through Action's SF Darfur Fundraiser- Frisson. 415-956-3004 Times 6 to 9 p.m. dinner; 9 p.m. Cocktail Reception. Costs: $200. Dinner; $25. cocktail reception . All proceeds go to Friends of the World Food Program, which will benefit suffering people in Darfur.

Potrero Hill Democratic Club - Party Endorsement Party - 7 p.m. Presidential Primary is just around the corner: February 5th. Come share a cup of holiday cheer, listen to speakers from the Democratic primary campaigns, and cast your vote if you are a member. Each candidate presentation will include a question and answer period. Written questions will be accepted before (email to contactus@phdemclub.org) and during the event. The audience may ask direct questions of all campaign speakers together at the end. Potrero Hill Neighborhood House, 953 De Haro Street, San Francisco, Ca. Information: 415-648-6740 http://www.phdemclub.org/

December 5th, 2007 Wednesday

National Project Homeless Connect Day - Bill Graham Civic auditorium.99 Grove Street, San Francisco 8:30 a.m.

Neighborhood Parks Council Annual Holiday Party - 5 to 8 p.m. Bring your favorite dish to share. 451 Hayes Street, 2nd Floor @ Hayes and Octavia. Information 415-621-3260 or cgood@sfnpc.org

Central City Democrats - Holiday Party 5:30 p.m. 631 O'Farrell Street, Ground Floor Ballroom, Mark Leno, Special Guest Speaker. Central City Democrats, 415-339-8683 centralcitydemocrats@yahoo.com

Obama'08 - Invitation to all "old" an new Obama volunteers from congressional district 12 North (San Francisco, Daly City, Colma and Brisbane). 7 to 9 p.m. The Irish Bank, 10 Mark Lane, S.F. Host: David Williamson 415-788-7152 No host-bar. RSVP obama.cd12@gmail.com (subject:RSVP Dec. 5th). 650-416-4589 Lisa Steel (CD12 Area Leader).

December 6th, 2007 Thursday

Academy of Art University plans - hearing on their institutional master plan. Planning Commission City Hall San Francisco

Prop A - $185 million Bond - February Election. Speakers training to help park supporters make the case. 6 to 7:30 p.m. Staton Hughes, 185 Berry Street, Suite 1590 (Lobby 3). RSVP: 415-495-4910 To learn abut the bond, read these informative documents from Rec/Park's website: Clean and Safe Neighborhood Park Bond 2008 Summary and map of the major projects www.parks.sfgov.org/wcm_recpark/GOBond/BondSummary101807.pdf; Clean and Safe Neighborhood Park Bond 2008 Bond Report www.parks.sfgov.org/wcm_recpark/GOBond/BondReport101207.pdf

Lennar Urban. Hunters Point Shipyard Small Business Networking Mixer. Location: Jewel Restaurant, 5251 Third Street, San Francisco 6 to 8 p.m. Presented by Lennar Urban and the San Francisco Redevelopment Agency. Speaker: Michael O'Connor, SF Small Business Commission President, Fred Jordan, San Francisco African-American Chamber of Commerce. A brief overview on the purpose of the Small Business Assistance Program and its functions. Information: Brajah Norris 415-995-4818 brajah.norris@jennar.com. http://www.hunterpointshipyard.com/

December 7th, 2007 -Friday

Debbie Reynolds in Concert- Herbst Theatre - Information 415-392-4400 http://www.ciyoffice.com/

December 8th, 2007 Saturday

Milk - New Gus Van Santa Film - Open Castings Call - 18-30 year old men. 10 a.m. t o 4 p.m. Sanchez School, 325 Sanchez School, 325 Sanchez Street, San Francisco, Ca. Information: 415-263-6877

Harvey Milk Democratic Club - Endorsement Meeting 1 to 6 p.m. (no further details?)

Democratic Women's Forum - Annual Holiday Party to honor Evelyn Wilson, the Forum's Parliamentarian, 2 to 4 p.m. at the home Of Lynne Newhouse Segal, 2100 Pacific Avenue, San Francisco, Ca. Light libations, hors d'oeuvres Attendees: $25. Information: 415-861-2378, Democratic Women's Forum, P. Box 475308, SF 94147-5308

Joe Alioto Veronese - Marin County Holiday Fund Raiser, 6 to 8 p.m. Hotel Acqua, 555 Redwood Highway, Mill Valley Information: marjan@joe for california.com http://www.joeforcalifornia.com/

December 9, 2007 Sunday

Northern California ACLU Celebrating the Bill of Rights - 1:30 p.m. The Westin St. Francis, 335 Powell Street, S.F. Honoring Harry Belafonte with the Chief Justice Earl Warren Civil Liberties Award and the Dick Criley Activism Award. $25 per person. Information: 415-621-2493 ex 372 or email amorris@aclunc.org

Senator Christopher J. Dodd, World Affairs Council of Northern California, World Affairs Council Auditorium, 2nd Floor, 312 Sutter St. S.F. 4 p.m. registration program 4:30 p.m. Non-Members $25. Reservations 415-293-4600 or visit http://www.itsyourworld.org/

December 10, 2007 - Monday

Upper Market Workshop and Design Plan- 6 p.m. at Harvey Milk School, 4235 19th Street at Collingwood Street - Information: Sarah Dennis sarah.dennis@sfgov.org 415-558-6314 http://www.sfgov.org/

Alice B. Toklas Membership Meeting - 6:30 to 8 p.m. LGBT Community Center, 1800 Market Street @ Octavia. Special Notice: February 2007 Endorsement vote Information: alicetoklas.org

December 11, 2007 - Tuesday

Joe Alioto Veronese - Sonoma County Holiday Fund Raiser - 6 to 8 p.m. Jacuzzi Family Vineyards, 24724 Arnold Driver, Sonoma, Ca. Information: marjan@JoeForCalifornia.com http://www.joeforcalifornia.com/

Anne Lamott - Jewish Community Center of San Francisco. 8 p.m 3200 California Street. $18. Information: 415-292-1233

Tribute to Max Roach - The Tuesday Night Stage Band and the Jazz/Rock Improvisational Workshop under the direction of David Hardiman, Jr. featuring very special guest Dr. Willis Kirk former President of the City College of San Francisco. 8 to 10 p.m. Diego Rivera Theater, Ocean Campus, 50 Phelan Avenue, San Francisco, Ca. Free. Information: 415-239-3580 email: slyons@ccsf.edu.

December 12, 2007 - Wednesday

Christine Pelosi - "Campaign Boot Camp" - Has written a guidebook for citizens wanting to enter public service. Commonwealth Club - 6:30 p.m. program 7:30 reception and book signing. 595 Market Street, 2nd Floor $20 non-members December 13, 2007 - Thursday Alice B. Toklas Holiday Party - 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. 660 Castro Street. Information: http://www.alicebtoklas.org/

San Francisco Tomorrow Holiday Party - 6 to 9 p.m. Forest Hill Clubhouse, 381 Magellan Ave. $35. up. Information: Jane Morrison 564-1482

Raoul Wallenberg Jewish Democratic Club - Hanukkah Celebration 2007, please join us for Drinks, Dreidels and Democrats. 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Fiddler's Green Tavern and Restaurant, 1333 Columbus Street, S.F. No host bar and eats .Information: sfrwjdc@yahoo.com

"Save the News!". A conversation about journalism & democracy. 7:3o to 10 p.m. free . CounterPulse, 1310 Mission Street at 9th Street, S.F. Questions: With all the high finance and power plays, how do comunities actually get news that matters? Amidst the layoffs and shrinking newsrooms, how can reporters and editors actually do their jobs and serve the public interest? What future awaits the legions of talented young journalists graduating from the Bay Area's many outstanding journalism schools? Discussion with Rose Aguilar (KALW-FM), Carl Hall (Northern California Media Workers and SF Chronicle Science reporter). Barry Parr (Coastsider.com, Mercury Center and News.com co-founder). Michael Stoll (Grade the News, SJSu, SF Public Press), Josh Wilson (Newsdesk.org) . Sponsored by Shaping San francisco; Newsdesk.org; Independent Arts & Media; Redwood Age.

December 13, 2007 - Thursday

Alice Holiday Party 6:30 p.m to 8 p.m., 660 Castro Street, S.F. Information: http://www.alicebtoklas.org/

December 14, 2007

San Francisco Inhabitat Holiday Party 6 to 9 p.m., 848 Folsom Street, 2nd Floor, S.F. Holiday cheer. Mingle and talk sustainable design with San Francisco's leading green designers and architects . Will be selling green holiday gifts. Organic wine sponsored by Frey Winery. RSVP to greenholidayrsvp@gmail.com

December 15, 2007 - Saturday

Mark Russell: The Laughter and Song of Politics: 5 and 8 p.m. Jewish Community Center of San Francisco, 3200 California Street. $55. Information: 415-292-1233

Harvey Milk Democratic Club Holiday Party - 8 to 11 p.m. Cafe Flore, 2298 Market Street at Noe Street near 16th Street.

December 16, 2007 - Sunday

Irish American Democratic Club - Holiday Party 3 to 6 p.m. At the home of Eileen Kivlehan, 1494 - 7th Avenue @ Kirkham, S. F. $10. Donation. Half of which goes to St. Anthony Foundation. Information: Patty Moran 415-861-2378 and Eileen Kivlehan@415-681-2078 January 16th 2008 the Irish American Democratic Club will be making their endorsement for US Presidential election (and vote on at least three State and one City ballot proposition). They will also be making an early endorsement in January for the California State Senate District 3 which will be held June 3, 2008. You are eligible to vote if at any time you have been an IADC member and renew your $12 dues as of the day of the endorsement meeting. You can join as a new member and vote if you sign up 30 days before the meeting date, which you can do when you attend the Christmas Party, or mail your $12. dues by December 16, 2007 to Irish American . Democratic Club, 1494 7th Avenue, San Francisco, Ca. 94122. Endorsement meeting will be held at State Building. A candidate must receive 60% + 1 of the votes cast to receive endorsement. Local and state propositions must have 50% +1 of the votes cast for endorsement. Proxy voting is not allowed.

December 18, 2007 - Tuesday

Honoring John Burton - Legacy of public service - 75th birthday Benefit the John Burton Foundation for Children without homes. Fairmont Hotel 6 p.m Reception Dinner 7 p.m. Entertainment Keely Smith Tickets $500. Information: 415-348-0011 John Burton Foundation for Children Without Homes c/o Kimiko Burton, 235 Montgomery Street, Suite 1142, San Francisco, Ca. 94104

Information:

Clifford! - Clifford Waldeck has moved his store (Waldeck's Office Supplies) to 345 California Street, San Francisco Information: 415-981-3381 http://www.waldecks.com/

Obama'08 - Need to identify all current and potential Obama supporters:

Mondays - 7 to 9 p.m. - Eagle Pizzeria, 1712 Taraval St. S.F. near 27th Ave. Bring a charged cell phone.

Thursdays - 7 to 9 p.m. Ha's Chinese Restaurant - 2333 Irving Street, S.F. between 24th and 25th Ave. Bring a charged cell phone.

obama.cd12@gmail.com, Oakland Headquarters, 436 14th Street, Suite 305, Oakland, Ca. Phone: 510-268-1008 Lisa Steel 650-416-4589