Sam Spade's San Francisco

Published since 2005. San Francisco is a city that belongs to the people of the world. Hence this blog has a global focus. The name "Sam Spade's San Francisco" refers to an exciting era in the City's history, the time of Dashiell Hammett's fictional gumshoe and San Francisco character, Sam Spade. My name is Tom Dunn and I edit the blog. I'm not as exciting as Sam Spade, but I am definitely a San Francisco character.Contact or on Twitter -- Search blog below.

Saturday, October 24, 2009

Official portrait of the First Family of the United States

Here is the official portrait of the First Family of the United States released Friday, October 23, 2009 by the White House Photo Office.

Click here for a high resolution photo.

The White House website is: http://www.whitehouse.gov/

Follow The White House on Twitter at

If you want President Obama's official portrait please click here.

Friday, October 23, 2009

Michael Yon, embedded journalist: the Obama OODA Loop in Afghanistan

Michael Yon is a former Green Beret, native of Winter Haven, Florida, who has been reporting from Iraq and Afghanistan since December 2004. No other reporter has spent as much time with combat troops in these two wars.

Michael’s dispatches from the frontlines have earned him the reputation as the premier independent combat journalist of his generation. His work has been featured on “Good Morning America,” The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, CNN, ABC, FOX, as well as hundreds of other major media outlets all around the world.

It is 9:25 PM in San Francisco. A few minutes ago Michael finished a series of tweets through his Twitter account. It's morning now in Afghanistan.

This is an exceptional series and I have reproduced the tweet log here.

After you read the tweets, go to http://www.michaelyon-online.com/ and check out some of the awesome photos direct from Afghanistan.

Here are the tweets as Michael sent them out from Afghanistan minutes ago:

If the enemies are smart – and they are – they will attack on every front: media, political, battlefield. They are inside our OODA loop.

The White House OODA loop is laughable. Decisive enemies are in prime position.

OODA Loop is something you'll hear often with special operations folks, fighter pilots, & true combat leaders. (US,Brit & Aussie, at least.)

OODA Loop is an old idea but formalized and "acronym-ized" by John Boyd.

OODA: Observe Orient Decide Act

When fighting -- especially if you are militarily inferior -- it is crucial to stay within your enemy's OODA Loop.

Works with legal fights, too...such as my major copyright fights. If you fight hard, fast, with surprise, you can beat "superior" enemies.

You can outsmart groups of people wherein every individual is smarter than you are.

If you stay inside their OODA Loop, and you are smart and decisive, you can defeat enemies who are incredibly superior in nearly every way.

Our current administration has an OODA loop that enemies dream about.

I first learned OODA loop back in Special Forces. We didn't call it OODA. It is a way of thinking that comes naturally to some people.

Great guerrilla commanders might not know the term OODA, but they are very good at it.

When I was younger, I read many books written by attorneys. The little attorneys who can defeat gigantic organizations understand OODA.

I liked to hear what Sam Walton had to say. Mr. Walton understood OODA thinking and applied it to business. (Just one arrow in his quiver.)

Sam Walton started as the guerrilla.

The great attorney Gerry Spence was a great guerrilla. Whether people liked him or not was irrelevant. He crushed far superior opponents.

The enemy has an OODA loop just as we do. (There are various enemies in AfPak, for instance, so their loops will differ.)

Taliban in South Afghanistan (known as the QST or Quetta Shura Taliban) also have an OODA loop. No enemy is without inertia.

Our military can deploy faster than FedEx, but our forces are not without inertia. Especially as pertains to Afghanistan.

It takes much time to implement new strategies or just a new battle plan for 2010. The QST must also make plans and deploy assets.

While QST and others are preparing for 2010, our 6-Star General in the White House is indecisive & weak. He is no match for the QST leaders.

Obama is in an elected military leader. General Obama is no match for the Taliban who are decisive, bold and experienced.

Obama lacks experience, is tentative and timid. These are not political estimations of Obama, but a military appraisal of a military leader.

QST and others cannot defeat our military the way they defeated the Soviets. The Soviets took off the gloves and still got crushed.

If I were an enemy high commander, I would focus very little on U.S. troops.

The U.S. would see casualties drop.I would focus very hard on Canadians who are going to quit and would humiliate them as much as possible.

I would focus on British, knowing British would punish my forces but that I could cause the British public to cry. Gordon Brown is weak.

Sarkozy is decisive and bold so I would save the French for later and focus on the Germans.

The Germans are unprepared for this level of extreme, unpredictable violence, so I would focus suicide attacks on them to bait overreaction.

I would focus very hard on Germans, terrorize their forces and cause them to overreact and attack the population.

I would attack the Japanese and cause them to leave and then make a big publicity event out of the departure.

I would avoid attacking U.S. forces, thus allowing Obama's natural weakness to look like his strength; I don't want him to send more forces.

If Obama sends more forces, NATO will send more. So don't attack Americans and let Americans think they are winning.

Let American officers report that they are making big successes, and so the President can easily decide to stop reinforcing.

Concentrate all efforts on the key partners who are showing weakness, indecisiveness or lack of commitment.

Identify and specifically concentrate on Coalition units who are bad to the people, or who overreact after an attack.

Provoke them at every chance. Cause them to question General McChrystal and his rules of engagement. Cause them to fight ROE.

Cause them to break ROE.

At all cost, avoid provoking the U.S. to send more troops -- continue to concentrate on the Coalition and breaking it apart.

Plan massive attacks around election cycles of Coalition members, and around important days or times of year, such as Christmas

Remember...do NOT provoke the United States... we will get to them later.

Treat prisoners fairly. Never, ever, for any reason, mistreat a prisoner. Especially not an American prisoner. This is counterproductive.

Remember, and this is very important: ALL troops in Afghanistan are AMERICAN. Most Afghans do not know U.S. from French from Germans.

Any soldier you can provoke to overuse force will benefit us in 2012 when we shift focus to the U.S. before their Presidential election.

Any German, French, Italian soldier who overreacts, will reflect upon the Americans.

Attacking the Italians is attacking the Americans, but attacking the Americans is not attacking the Italians.

Thinking as the enemy commander, I would attack Obama in about 2012, shifting all discretionary forces at U.S. forces and civilians.

By 2012, key Coalition partners will be shaking in their boots and civilians will have turned against them.

By 2012, the Brits will be defeated, or effectively defeated, and pour all discretionary forces at Americans.

By 2012, the American people will not even consider reinforcing, and the end game can begin.

By 2016, victory will be ours. NATO will be weakened. The Americans will be depressed and second-guessing themselves.

Our brothers in the Philippines, Indonesia, Africa and elsewhere will see the weakness of the United States.

Without the strength of the United States, Europe is weak. And then we can begin.

That's enough Tweets for this morning (I am in Asia). That is how I see, as an enemy commander, the Obama OODA loop in Afghanistan.

- - -

Follow Michael Yon on Twitter at

Read more from Michael Yon at Michael Yon Online Magazine

Monday, October 19, 2009

USS Makin Island (LHD 8) to be commissioned Oct 24

Update: For updated news and information about USS Makin Island go to: USS Makin Island (LHD 8) hybrid turbine-electric warship and Global Disaster Response Platform

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This news release just arrived (October 19, 2009) from Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet via their Twitter account,

NORTH ISLAND, Calif. (NNS) --

USS Makin Island (LHD 8) will be formally commissioned in a ceremony on Naval Air Station North Island Oct. 24. Makin Island's homeport is Naval Base San Diego.

Makin Island is the final amphibious assault ship built in the Wasp-class, but the first of the class built with gas turbine engines and an electric drive.

Makin Island's propulsion system includes 2 General Electric LM2500+ gas turbines, 2 electro motors and 6 diesel generators. The generators and electro-motors provide power to the drive shafts. Makin Island was built by Northrop Grumman Ship Systems, Pascagoula, Miss.

Makin Island is 840' in length and displaces 40, 500 tons full load.

Makin Island will carry (depending on mission) 6 AV-8B Harrier USMC attack jets, 12 CH-46 Sea Knight helicopters, and 9 CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopters.

The ship will protect itself with 2 MK-29 NATO RIM-7 Sea Sparrow surface-to-air missile launchers and 2 20-mm Phalanx CIWS guns.

Makin Island's crew consists of 73 officers and 1,009 enlisted. Makin Island will also carry 1,800 Marines.

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The ship, which has been dubbed the "Prius of Navy warships," arrived in San Diego in mid-September, three years after her christening. The ship brought over 1,000 Sailors and their families to the San Diego community.

"I am eager for Makin Island to finally join the fleet," said Vice Adm. D.C. Curtis, commander, Naval Surface Forces. "The Sailors of this crew exemplify the best this nation has to offer. They represent America's Navy with pride and distinction and proudly serve as part of a global force for good."

The Navy projects that this advance will save nearly $250 million in fuel costs over the ship's lifetime. The development is already paying off – during the ships transit from Pascagoula, Miss., to San Diego, Makin Island consumed over 900,000 gallons less fuel than a steam ship completing the same transit, saving more than $2 million in fuel costs.

Other environmentally-friendly initiatives include the use of an electric plant to power auxiliaries, meaning no steam or associated chemicals; and the use of reverse osmosis water purification systems that negate the need for chemicals like bromine or chlorine.

"The USS Makin Island represents the centerpiece and future of naval expeditionary warfare and will significantly enhance our ability to rapidly respond to emergent tasking around the world," said Rear Adm. Earl Gay, commander, Expeditionary Strike Group 3. "Her commissioning is a watershed moment for our Navy-Marine Corps team, and I am honored to have her in the fleet."

According to Capt. Bob Kopas, commanding officer, the true strength of Makin Island rests in her crew.

"This crew brings a 'gung ho' attitude of teamwork and determined enthusiasm to the fleet, in the tradition of Carlson's Raiders, who originated the term 'gung ho'," said Kopas. "The dedication they have shown over the past four years has brought the ship to life and lays the foundation for Makin Island to face the challenges of the next 40-plus years of supporting the needs of our nation and Navy."

Makin Island (LHD 8) Official Commissioning website

USS Makin Island website

For more news from Naval Surface Forces, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnsp/.

Photos of USS Makin Island

Saturday, October 17, 2009

Pet Pride Day in Francisco - Oct 25 - Golden Gate Park

San Francisco Animal Care and Control is hosting:

Pet Pride Day 2009!

When: Sunday, October 25, 2009

Where: Sharon Meadow at Golden Gate Park (map)

Cost: Free

Events:

- Pet costume contest: pre-judging and registration 11am to 12noon

- San Francisco Mounted Police Unit and Parade of Pets: 12noon

- Awards: 12:30pm

- SFPD and U.S. Park Service canine officers on parade: 12:35pm

- Pet Camp's Pet Trick Contest: 1pm

- ACC Dating Game: 1:30pm

- Busy Bee Dogs : 1:50pm

- Pet Camp's Halloween Contest: 2:15pm

- Busy Bee Dogs: 2:40pm

There will also be a number of pet and pet-product vendors booths and you are encouraged to visit them throughout the event.

Hosted by San Francisco Animal Care and Control (City and County of San Francisco) and presented by Pet Camp - where its always doggie and kitty social hour.
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Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Halloween in San Francisco 2009 - list of events and parties

Alcatraz Night Tour (Thursday-Monday) Alcatraz Landing, Pier 33 - 4:20 p.m. Limited to a few hundred visitors each evening, this tour includes fascinating stories and spine-tingling adventures to the dark corners of the island prison. Tickets range from $19.50 to $33. Reservations required. For tour times and ticket information, visit http://www.alcatrazcruises.com/ or call .

Oct. 1-31, 2009 - Things That Scare the Staff - California Academy of Sciences, 55 Music Concourse Dr., Golden Gate ParkThroughout the month of October, check out some of the scariest specimens in the Academy’s research collections. Hand-picked by the museum’s scientists, these specimens will be on display near the public Research Lab, and include such chill-inducing species as the Death’s Head hawkmoth — the skull-patterned moth featured in Silence of the Lambs. Free with Academy admission. For information visit http://www.calacademy.org/ or call .

Oct. 1-Nov. 20, 2009 - Shocktoberfest -The Torture Garden - Hypnodrome, 575 10th St.8 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, special Halloween performance at midnight. Thrillpeddlers’ 10th annual “pageant of terror” offers two one-act plays in the Grand Guignol tradition: The Torture Garden and The Phantom Limb in repertory with Pearls Over Shanghai, the Cockettes musical (extended through Nov. 22). For information visit http://www.brownpapertickets.com/ or call .

Oct. 2-Nov. 1, 2009 - Creepy Crawly Week - California Academy of Sciences, 55 Music Concourse Dr., Golden Gate Park.In honor of Halloween, face those fears and join the Academy’s naturalists for lessons about creepy-crawly critters, including tarantulas, scorpions, snakes and alligators. A special scavenger hunt will help visitors track down some of the creepiest critters in the building. Additionally, daily programs will allow visitors to meet — and sometimes touch — these traditionally frightening animals. A celebration for Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) will wrap the week’s festivities on Nov. 1. Free with Academy admission. For information visit http://www.calacademy.org/ or call .

Oct. 17, 2009 - Cool Black Ball - Various venues on Fillmore Street between Geary and Eddy and participating restaurants including 1300 on Fillmore, Bruno’s, Dosa, Rasselas, Sheba Piano Lounge and Yoshi’s7 p.m.- 2 a.mThe first Cool Black Ball, a pre-Halloween costume/couture event, showcases the live entertainment in the Fillmore District. A colorful, jazzy retro celebration of the style and people from the 1920s to ‘50s that helped shape the Fillmore District and its jazz heritage, the Cool Black Ball offers music – new and old – featured simultaneously at the Fillmore Center Plaza and clubs in the area. Local restaurants will also feature special menus. Admission is $40 for access to ticketed live shows and DJs at both Rasselas and Yoshi’s; free access to non-ticketed venues including outdoor entertainment at Fillmore Center Plaza. For information visit http://www.coolblackball.com/.

Oct. 17, 2009 - Cartoon Art Museum - Alternative Press Expo Party: Monsters and Mayhem, Cartoon Art Museum, 655 Mission St.8-11 p.m.The Cartoon Art Museum hosts a fun-filled evening of Monsters and Mayhem. Special guests include featured artists from the museum’s Monsters of Webcomics exhibition: Jenn Manley Lee (Dicebox), Dylan Meconis (Family Man) and Jesse Reklaw (Slow Wave) plus famed webcartoonists and popular syndicated cartoonists. Admission to the event is on a sliding scale from $5 to $20. For information visit http://www.cartoonart.org/ or call 415-CAR-TOON (227-8666).

Oct. 17-18, 2009 - 39th Annual Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival - Main Street, Half Moon Bay9 a.m.- 5 p.m.The World Pumpkin Capital of Half Moon Bay celebrates its bountiful fall harvest with a fantastic lineup of rustic pumpkin patches, harvest-inspired crafts, home-style foods, expert pumpkin carvers, the Great Pumpkin Parade, a bone-chilling haunted house, a titanic weigh-off of champion pumpkins, a pie-eating contest, pumpkin carving, costume contests, a pancake breakfast, a five and 10K run/walk and three stages of blockbuster entertainment. Admission is free. For information visit http://www.miramarevents.com/ or call .

Oct. 17-18, 2009 - Goblin Jamboree - Bay Area Discovery Museum, 557 McReynolds Road, East Fort Baker, Sausalito10 a.m.-4 p.m.Celebrate the true Halloween spirit at the annual Goblin Jamboree. Children and their families are invited to come in costume and explore the Bay Area Discovery Museum, transformed into a haunted wonderland complete with games, attractions, and live entertainment. Enroll in the witches’ school, take a train or pony ride, visit the petting zoo and enjoy a full brew of games, activities and live entertainment. For information visit http://www.baykidsmuseum.org/ or call .

Oct. 17, 24 and 31, 2009 - Halloween Flashlight Tours - Winchester Mystery House, 525 S. Winchester Blvd., San Jose6:30 p.m.-12:27 a.m.This one takes the pumpkin. Special flashlight tours ($45 per person) are offered on Oct. 17, 24 and 31 and every Friday the 13th. Tour the rambling mansion with only the moonlight, asouvenir flashlight and your imagination to guide you through a bewildering maze of rooms and stairways. For Halloween, there’s also special entertainment and trick-or-treating in the gardens for the whole family. For information visit http://www.winchestermysteryhouse.com/ or call .

Oct. 21-31, 2009 - Halloween Swamp Tours - Jelly Belly Candy Co., One Jelly Belly Lane, FairfieldCandy factory tours include the fun and kid-friendly Halloween Swamp at the Jelly Belly Candy Company. Tours detour through a decorated haven of Halloween delights; see the making of jelly beans, candy corn, gummi tarantulas and more on 40-minute tours. Samples for all. For information visit http://www.jellybelly.com/ or call .

Oct. 23, 2009 - Spooktacular Twilight Tour - San Francisco Zoo, 1 Zoo Road5-9 p.m.Bring the whole family for a Halloween-themed evening at the Zoo. This fun-filled evening consists of a nocturnal safari, a close encounter with some “spooky” animals and carving pumpkins for the animals. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Cost for Zoo members: $30 for children 4-17 years old (children three and under are free) and $35 for adults; non-members: $35 for children and $40 adults. Pre-registration required. For information visit http://www.sfzoo.org/ or call .

Oct. 23, 2009 - Green Halloween - California Academy of Sciences, 55 Music Concourse Dr., Golden Gate Park.5-6:30 p.m. Benefactor Pre-Party, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Halloween Costume PartyNote: The Academy will close to the public at 3 p.m. on this dayCreep, crawl, slither and slink from the rainforest canopy to the coral reef. Spooktacular activities, entertainment, crafts, and fun for the entire family. Face-to-face encounters with Academy scientists and their fascinating collections, plus surprises galore. Proceeds support the Academy’s education and research programs. For information visit www.calacademy.org/halloween or call .

Oct. 23, 2009 - Queens Are Wild in the Castro - Mezzanine, 444 Jessie St.8 p.m.-3 a.m.One of San Francisco’s newest Halloween traditions features casino games with celebrity dealers. Presented by the Stop AIDS project and Elbow Grease, the event includes dancing, performances and a silent auction. Ticket levels start at $25 per person (dance party only). To order tickets visit http://www.stopaids.org/ or call .

Oct. 23-24, 2009 Exotic Erotic Ball & Expo - Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Ave., Daly City - Expo is open Friday, Oct. 23 4 p.m.-12 a.m. and Saturday, Oct. 24 noon-6 p.m.; open to ages 18 and overBall Saturday Oct. 24 8 p.m.-2 a.m.; open to ages 21 and overPerry Mann’s Exotic Erotic Ball has been called “The World’s #1 Wildest and Sexiest Party” by E! Entertainment TV. Live performances confirmed for the 30th anniversary show include DJ Skribble, Missing Persons, The Frail, CRGruve, LZ Love, Super Geek League, and the return of the Impotent Sea Snakes. The Exotic Erotic Ball fills six acres of space, hosts 65 performances, features erotic artists, exotic dancers plus fantasy themed halls. The ball is preceded by a two-day expo that features its own entertainment lineup, in addition to more than 100 exhibits. Hotel packages are available at the Radisson Hotel Bay Front in Brisbane. For information visit http://www.exoticeroticball.com/ or call 415-567-BALL (2255).

Oct. 24, 2009 - Children’s Halloween Hootenanny - Stanyan Street and Waller Street cul-de-sac next to Kezar Pavilion11 a.m.-4 p.m.A Haight-Ashbury Street Fair Production, the Children’s Halloween Hootenanny features a “Medieval Times” theme this year and includes a costume contest, performers, exhibitions and creative hands-on activities designed to entertain children of all ages. Since 2006, this event has been an opportunity in the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood for children to enjoy the spirit of Halloween in a safe and fun environment. Event will be strictly supervised and monitored to ensure the safety and amusement of all participants. For information visit http://www.haightashburystreetfair.org/.

Oct. 24, 2009 - Voices in the Dark - Marin Headlands, 6-9 p.m. Special five-mile, relatively flat, dusk-to-night hike is in search of two inhabitants — the coyote and great horned owl — whose nightly sounds haunt many human visitors. Along the way, learn more about the secret lives of these reclusive characters. Free. Meet at Tennessee Valley trailhead. For reservations, call or visit http://www.parksconservancy.org/.

Oct. 24-25, 2009 - Boo at the Zoo - San Francisco Zoo, One Zoo Road, Great Highway and Sloat Blvd.10 a.m.-4 p.m.Make plans to join the animals for two days of not-so-scary, high-spirited Halloween fun at Boo at the Zoo. Kids and their families have an opportunity to visit candy stations throughout the Zoo. Come watch gorillas, bears, chimpanzees and other Zoo animals enjoy their special pumpkin treats during the “Pumpkin Stomp and Chomp.” Venture along the Haunted Nature Trail located inside the Children’s Zoo where a number of animals, such as snakes and owls, are close at hand. Boo at the Zoo also features live entertainment, prizes, crafts and more. The Zoo will also mark Dia de los Muertos. Visitors may bring special photos and keepsakes to place on an alter which has been constructed in the Entry Village to remember beloved family members or pets that have passed away. Free with paid Zoo admission. For information visit http://www.sfzoo.org/ or call .

Oct. 25, 2009 - Pumpkin Time! Marin Headlands Visitor Center -10 a.m.-noon. Bring the whole family and a pumpkin or two to paint, carve and decorate and share some Halloween folklore. Program limited to 25 people. Reservations required. Free. For information visit http://www.parksconservancy.org/ or call .

Oct. 25, 2009 - Pet Pride Day - Sharon Meadow, Golden Gate Park - Registration 11 a.m.-noon, event noon–3 p.m. Hosted by Doug McConnell, Pet Pride Day is a fun-filled day of entertainment, education andinformation for everyone with two, or even four, legs. There will be a pet costume contest, trick competition, working animal demonstrations, and all kinds of adoptable animals — from chickens to chinchillas. The event is limited to dogs that must be leashed. For information visit www.sfgov.org/site/acc or call .

Oct. 25, 2009 - Pumpkin Pandemonium - Pier 39, Bay and Embarcadero - Noon-4 p.m. This bewitching event kicks off with a performance from Wicked, now playing at the Orpheum Theatre. The fun continues with live entertainment and activities for all the little ghouls and boys. Children 12 and under are welcome to trick or treat at participating shops. Pumpkin carving demonstrations, and face painting will be available, as well as photos with frightfulcharacters. Golden Gate Disposal & Recycling will be on hand with recycling and composting tips. The winner of the Wicked singing contest will also qualify for an “Oz-some” prize. Children will be able to wander through the pumpkin patch to pick their one free pumpkin (while supplies last). For information visit http://www.pier39.com/ or call 415-981-PIER (7437).

Oct. 25, 2009 - Harvest Festival and Halloween Mask Workshop - Marin Headlands Visitor Center1:30-4 p.m.Make masks for the season using non-native materials found around the Headlands and sample heirloom apples. Meet artist Katrina Wagner at the Marin Headlands Visitor Center. Reservations required. For information visit http://www.parksconservancy.org/ or call .

Oct. 27-31 - Neverwas Haul, Haunted Victorian House - Exploratorium, 3601 Lyon St.As a preview to the Exploratorium’s Halloween event on Oct. 31, Neverwas Haul, a haunted Victorian house on wheels, will be on the museum floor from Oct. 27-31. Self-propelled, three-stories high and replete with period details such as a camera obscura, the Neverwas Haul invokes the imaginary worlds of Jules Verne, H.G. Wells and other writers inspired by steam technology. Staff, in period costumes, will be on hand to talk to visitors about the Neverwas Haul; however, tours will be available only during the Halloween event. For information visit http://www.exploratorium.edu/ or call 415-EXP-LORE (397-5673).

Oct. 29-31, 2009 - Wonderland – A Hollywood Theatrical Production - ®Ruby Skye, 420 Mason St.9 p.m.Experience three nights of Halloween fun as Ruby Skye is transformed into the fantasy world of Alice in Wonderland with more than $20,000 in props and décor. For information on special entertainment for each night, ticketing, dress code and hours visit http://www.rubyskye.com/ or call .

Oct. 30, 2009 - Halloween Blood Drive - Embarcadero Center, Drumm St. between Three Embarcadero and Four Embarcadero8 a.m.-5 p.m.Vampire fans and all tricker treaters are invited to the Embarcadero Center Halloween Blood Drive. Not only will blood donors contribute to saving lives, they will also be eligible to win vampire-themed prizes, including the complete Twilight saga of hardcover books; a two-night,weekend stay at the Harbor Court Hotel; restaurant gift certificates, and much more. Enjoy treats and goodie bags while celebrating Halloween by donating much needed blood to Bay Area patients. Donor coach will be located at Drumm Street between Three and Four Embarcadero Center. Donors can sign up for appointments at http://www.bloodheroes.com/; enter embarcadero as the sponsor code (case sensitive). For more information call the Tenant Relations hotline at or email .

Oct. 30, 2009 - Halloween Carnival - Japanese Community and Cultural Center of Northern California (JCCNC), 1840 Sutter St.6-8:30 p.m.Come to JCCCNC’s and the Japanese Community Youth Council’s Halloween Carnival for a safe spooky scene. Indoors arts and crafts, games, a trick or treat parade and a jumper are part of the fun. Space is limited. For information call or visit http://www.jcccnc.org/.

Oct. 30, 2009 - An Evening of Curiosities SFMOMA Fall Member Party - San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, 151 Third St.7-10 p.m., galleries open until 9:45 p.m.This is an SFMOMA member event; however, interested party-goers can sign up as members at the door that evening and it promises to be a “crazy night of performance” and a fierce competition for best costume (the winner gets a complimentary one-year SFMOMA membership). Celebrity judges will be on hand and entertainment for this fall exhibition preview includes live music by The Goat Family, Soulful tunes by DJ Sharbaugh, special appearance by The Living Dead Girlz and after-hours dining at Caffé Museo and the Rooftop Coffee Bar. For information call the membership department at or email or visit http://www.sfmoma.org/.

Oct. 30, 2009 - The KISS Screamin’ Halloween Cruise - Hornblower Cruises and Events, Pier 3, The EmbarcaderoBoarding begins at 8:30 p.m.; boat departs at 9:30 p.m.Join 98.1 KISS-FM and Hornblower Cruises for the third annual KISS Screamin’ Halloween Cruise. Come dressed to trick or treat and then jive to KISS-FM tunes. Tasty cocktails, delicious appetizers and stunning views make for a frighteningly good time. Tickets $40. For information visit http://www.hornblower.com/ or call .

Oct. 30-31, 2009 - HallowScreen! - Walt Disney Family Museum, 104 Montgomery St., The Presidio of San Francisco10: 30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 8:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.These funny bone ticklers include haunted cartoon shorts such as The Skeleton Dance, The Mad Doctor and Pluto’s Judgment Day. Visitors are promised a “howling good time,” and costumes are welcomed. Tickets available online at http://www.waltdisney.org/ or call .

Oct. 30-31, 2009 - Improv Halloween Show - Bayfront Theatre, Building B, Fort Mason8 p.m.True Fiction Magazine (TFM) returns to the Bayfront Theatre for its annual Halloween shows. Originally inspired by the overblown passions of the ‘30s and ‘40s pulp novels, TFM takes improvised theatre to new dimensions every year. For information visit http://www.improv.org/ or call .

Oct. 30-Nov. 1, 2009 - Supperclub Halloween Style - 657 Harrison St.“If you’re looking for ordinary, than Supperclub is not for you.” True to form Supperclub marks the Halloween weekend with a series of edgy events including “hot” lesbian hipsters on Oct. 30, 10:30 p.m.-2 a.m.; The Dead Light District Halloween style on Oct. 31, 10:30 p.m.-2 a.m.; and Breakfast in Bed Halloween style on Nov. 1, 5 a.m. Admission is $10 per person RSVP or $25 at the door. For information and reservations visit http://www.supperclub.com/ or call .

Oct. 31, 2009 - Family Halloween Day - Randall Museum, 199 Museum Way, off Roosevelt above 14th and Castro Streets10 a.m.-2 p.m.Come in costume and join in the kid-friendly festivities at the Randall Museum’s Family Halloween Day. The Museum will be transformed into a Halloween haunt with a gamut of ghoulish games, creepy crafts, tricks and treats, pumpkins and more. Entertainment includes Jackie Jones playing the saw with her amazing dancing cat. Kids, ages 2-12, and their families; must be accompanied by an adult. Admission is free; low cost activities. For information call or visit http://www.randallmuseum.org/.

Oct. 31, 2009 - Spooktacular Bike the Bay Ride - 2661 Taylor St., Fisherman’s Wharf10 a.m., arrive at 9:45 a.m. for proper bike fittingBay City Bike Rentals and Tours is slashing their rack rate on Halloween and offering $15 off on their 10 a.m. daily guided tour to Sausalito. Take in the “spooktacular” views of San Francisco – it will be one wicked ride. Regularly $65 per adult, on Halloween the cost is $50 to anyone who mentions the “Spooktacular SFCVB” offer. Tour includes professionally guided three-hour tour across the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito; return ferry ticket; helmet; map; handlebar bag to hold Halloween treats; rear gear rack with bungee; lock; water cage for drinks (water and energy drinks available for purchase); bonus use of bike for the rest of the day and a yummy Halloween treat. To book online visit https://mouse.he.net/~baybike/ or call .

Oct. 31, 2009 - Munchkin Masquerade - Jelly Belly Candy Co., One Jelly Belly Lane, Fairfield10 a.m.Little ghouls and goblins 10 and under will be right at home at the Jelly Belly Visitor Center; it’s everyone in costume for the Munchkin Masquerade march through the Halloween Swamp in the candy factory tour. Face painting, clowns and treats for kids add to the fun. For information visit http://www.jellybelly.com/ or call .

Oct. 31, 2009 - Wicked – The Untold Story of the Witches of Oz - Celebrates Halloween at Zeum - Zeum, 221 Fourth St.11 a.m.-5 p.m.Calling all Emerald Citizens! Zeum: San Francisco’s Children’s Museum encourages families to come dressed as Emerald Citizens for a special costume contest at the Zeum Carousel. Come help “greenify” Zeum and participate in one of the Wicked Week family workshops; creativity could lead straight to the Emerald City for a peek backstage and the opportunity to win tickets to the show. Admission is $8 youth; $8 seniors and students; $10 adults; free for visitors age 2 and younger. For information http://www.zeum.org/ or call .

Oct. 31, 2009 - Halloween Entertainment - The Cannery at Del Monte Square, 2801 Leavenworth St.11:45 a.m.-8 p.m.Musical entertainment begins at 11:45 a.m. For information visit http://www.thecannery.com/ or call .

Oct. 31, 2009 - Gardens Halloween Costume Walk - Children’s Garden, Rooftop, Yerba Buena Gardens, Fourth and Howard StreetsNoon–2 p.m.Hosted by the Unique Derique and featuring live music, children under 10 and their families are invited to parade around in Halloween finery. The Costume Walk also features performances and interactive games for kids. For information visit http://www.ybgf.org/ or call .

Oct. 31 - Creature Features: An Exploratorium Halloween - Exploratorium, 3601 Lyon St.3-8 p.m. Cash bar for adults opens at 5 p.m. Creature Features: An Exploratorium Halloween offers a host of eerie attractions ranging from giant insects to the Neverwas Haul, a haunted Victorian house on wheels. Self-propelled, three-stories high, and replete with period details such as a camera obscura, the Neverwas Haul invokes the imaginary worlds of Jules Verne, H.G. Wells, and other writers inspired by steam technology. Venture through its rooms, then visit ghosts of theories past in the Cemetery of Dead Science. In addition to mad science experiments, pneumatic monster machines, and a garden of carnivorous plants, visitors will encounter fascinating (and frequently misunderstood) creatures. Meet leeches, black cats, tarantulas, giant insects, bats, scorpions and more. For information visit http://www.exploratorium.edu/ or call 415-EXP-LORE (397-5673).

Oct. 31, 2009 - The Haunted Presidio: Halloween Night Walk - Presidio of San Francisco, corner of Lincoln Boulevard and Funston Avenue6:30-8 p.m.Join a ranger- and docent-led tour and learn about the mysteries and unexplained events of the Presidio’s 200-year history. Parental guidance suggested. Dress warmly, wear comfortable shoes and bring a flashlight (optional). Meet park ranger Rik Penn and a docent at the corner of Lincoln Boulevard and Funston Avenue for a moderate, one-mile walk. Space limited. For reservations visit http://www.parksconservancy.org/ or call .

Oct. 31, 2009 - Teatro ZinZombie – A Macabre Ball at Teatro ZinZanni - Pier 29, The Embarcadero at Battery and Lombard streets6:30 p.m.Teatro ZinZanni will host a special Halloween evening performance full of ghoulish love and chaotic decadence. Audiences are invited to dress up in their favorite costumes and join the Macabre Ball at Teatro ZinZombie. This promises to be a memorable evening that includes a costume parade and prizes to the top three costumes judged by Teatro ZinZanni’s spectacular cast members. For tickets visit www.zinzanni.org or call .

Oct. 31, 2009 - Monster Bash - USS Hornet Museum, 707 W. Hornet Ave., Pier 3, Alameda Point, Alameda - 7:30 p.m.-12 a.m. All ages are welcomed aboard this National Historic Landmark, the USS Hornet. Aptly nicknamed “The Gray Ghost,” the ship is the setting for a thrilling evening of dancing and haunted happenings. Elvira’s “Fright Simulator” will give party goers a good jolt. The family friendly event will feature live dance music from the ‘60s to the present by The Cocktail Monkeys, prizes for best costumes, a children’s area and haunted tours. Tickets are $20 adults, $10 children up to age 17; $25 at the gangplank. Proceeds benefit preservation of the historic aircraft carrier. For information visit http://www.hornetevents.com/ or call , ext. 282.

Oct. 31, 2009 - Nosferatu - Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave.8 p.m.Celebrate Halloween with one of early film’s great masterpieces, Nosferatu (1922) directed by F.W. Murnau, which tells the eerie tale of the vampire Count Orlok. A re-imagining of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, the film is dark and mysterious. Experience this movie as it was meant to be seen and heard — with live accompaniment. Dennis James plays the San Francisco Symphony’s incomparable 8,264-pipe Ruffatti organ. Tickets start at $20; half-price for ages 17 and under. For ticket information visit www.sfsymphony.org or call .

Oct. 31, 2009 - 27th Annual San Francisco Jazz Festival Presents “Halloween Dance Party” - Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Forum, 701 Mission St.9 p.m.For an exhilarating glimpse into the future of jazz keyboards, look no further than Marco Benevento. A melodically inventive musical adventurer who employs pedals, amplifiers, rejiggered electronic toys and sundry effects, Benevento has forged a fascinating repertoire of songs by the likes of Neil Young, Led Zeppelin and Beck, interspersed with wildly original compositions. Admission $25. For information visit http://www.sfjazz.org/ or call .

Oct. 31, 2009 - Very Postmortem: Mummies and Medicine - Legion of Honor, Lincoln Park, 34th Avenue and Clement StreetArchaeology meets technology in Very Postmortem: Mummies and Medicine opening on Halloween at the Legion of Honor. This ongoing exhibition welcomes back to the Fine Arts Museums the mummy of Irethorrou, a priest from an important family who lived in Akhmin,Egypt around 500 BC, died at a young age and was buried more than 2,500 years ago. The mummy had been on loan to the Haggin Museum in Stockton, Calif. for the last 65 years. Using state of the art technology, the exhibition reveals Irethorrou’s secrets through three-dimensional computed tomography (CT) scans. The exhibition will include computer-generated models of the skulls of Irethorrou and of a close relative Ankh-Wennefer, as well as other “cult of the dead” antiquities that relate to the ancient Egyptian beliefs of death and the afterlife. Irethorrou is one of four human mummies and one crocodile mummy in the Fine Arts Museums’ permanent collection. These and other antiquities were among the museum’s earliest gifts, having been given to the collection by founders M.H. de Young, Adolph Spreckels and other donors. For information visit http://www.famsf.org/ or call .

Oct. 31, 2009 - Halloween Celebration - Napa River Inn and Silo’s Jazz Club, 530 Main St., Napa8-11 p.m.; doors open at 7 p.m.Celebrate Halloween with live music dancing to the Julianne Band and enjoy drink specials and appetizers. A costume contest will be held during the evening with prizes for the scariest, funniest and most original costumes. Check out the rumors that the inn is haunted; overnight hotel package is available. Cover charge $15. Advanced ticket purchases can be made by visiting http://www.napariverinn.com/ or by calling SILO’s Jazz Club at .

Nov. 1, 2009 - Dia de los Muertos Family Concert - Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave.2 p.m. The San Francisco Symphony (SFS) marks the Day of the Dead with a concert that celebrates Latino culture. Conducted by Alondra de la Parra, the program includes music by Gabriela Lena Frank and Saint-Saens. SFS has partnered with the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts to create artwork, which will be displayed in the lobby as part of a community children’s altar. For ticket information visit http://www.sfsymphony.org/ or call .

Nov. 1, 2009 - Halloween T-Dance - Ruby Skye, 420 Mason St.6 p.m.-12 a.m.Dance the night away at Fresh’s (http://www.freshsf.com/) special Halloween T-Dance at Ruby Skye (http://www.rubyskye.com/). DJ Tony Moran will be working his usual magic. Restricted to ages 21 and over.

Nov. 2, 2009 - Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) and Festival of Altars - 24th and Bryant Streets7-11:30 p.m.The annual procession in San Francisco’s Mission District begins at the corner of 24th and Bryant at 7 p.m. It will continue on Bryant Street, then to Mission, and will end at Garfield Park, Harrison and 26th Streets, where five local artists have been commissioned to build community altars. Participants are invited to bring candles, flowers, photos, food and/or drink and other mementos to place on the altars in celebration of the lives of those now gone. Dia de los Muertos is a traditional Meso-American holiday dedicated to ancestors; it honors both death and the cycle of life. This event is family friendly and free; however, donations are being solicited online to cover the cost of permits. For information visit http://www.dayofthedeadsf.org/.

Oct 17 and 18 - Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Festival - 9am to 5pm both days - One of the largest Halloween family events in the san Francisco Bay Area - for more info go to:
www.miramarevents.com/pumpkinfest/index.html

Dance clubs and bar parties - see SF Station's Annual Halloween Guide

Walking tours and excursions - For a gambol with ghosts, check out these walking tours:

San Francisco Ghost Hunt at The Queen Anne Hotel1590 Sutter St.7 p.m. nightly (except Tuesdays)Stories of a friendly ghost at The Queen Anne Hotel come from its origin as Miss Mary Lake’s Finishing School For Girls. The former head of the school, Miss Mary Lake, disappeared shortly after the school closed. Some locals believe that she never left her role as caretaker and still looks after people at the hotel today, specifically overnight guests in Room 410 where she used to live. Ghost hunters are encouraged to dress warmly. $20, $10 for ages 15 and younger; not recommended for ages eight and under. Tours meet in the lobby of The Queen Anne. For details call or visit http://www.sfghosthunt.com/.

San Francisco Vampire Tour - Nob Hill - Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m.Mina Harker a.k.a. Kitty Nasarow leads a two-hour San Francisco Vampire Tour departing from the corner of California and Taylor streets every Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. Join in the “spirit” and come in costume for stops at Grace Cathedral, Huntington Park, the Pacific-Union Club, Fairmont and Mark Hopkins hotels. $20 per mortal; $15 ages students or 60 and over. For information, call or 866-4-BITTEN (424-8836) or visit http://www.sfvampiretour.com/.

SF Chinatown Ghost Tours - Tours meet at Kan’s Restaurant, 708 Grant Ave.7:30 p.m. (by reservation only) Fridays and SaturdaysTours for people who love mystery, but aren’t afraid of the dark; 90-minute walking tours visit the haunts of the oldest Chinatown in the United States and prowl historic byways and alleys to reveal more about Chinese myths and mystery. $24 adults, $16 for ages 17 and under. To make reservations and for information, call or or visit http://www.sfchinatownghosttours.com/.

San Francisco City Guides - Three tours with a hint of mystery are offered by San Francisco City Guides; for details on dates and times (TBA), visit http://www.sfcityguides.org/:
Ghosts, Sinners and Secret PlacesMeet at the kiosk in Hallidie Plaza at Market and Powell streets. Wander streets above hidden tunnels used during prohibition to enter secret speakeasies, learn about hotels with apparitions and hidden rooms, a murder scandal with a legendary Hollywood actor, a notorious stagecoach robber, and ghosts that haunt a theater, a cabaret, the brothels of Maiden Lane and Chinatown. Tour covers approximately one mile and ends in Union Square.

Ghost Walk - City Hall, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place - Disinterred remains, assassinations and other ghostly lore form the focus of this free tour offered by City Guides. The history and architecture of this handsomely restored building are revealed, plus little-known facts such as the cemetery once located here. Who (or what else) might be walking beside you? Enter through Goodlett Place (formerly Polk Street) doors; meet in South Light Court. “Travel lightly,” as full security will be in force.

Ghost Walk at the Palace Hotel - Palace Hotel, 2 New Montgomery St. - Kings and presidents died here; gunshots echoed through stately corridors, romances ended tragically. Perhaps that explains enduring stories of spectral visions and mysterious occurrences

Pumpkin Picking - If your visit to San Francisco includes a trip to the nearest pumpkin patch, here are a couple of candidates: Ferry Plaza Farmer’s Market; Seventh Avenue and Lawton; Nineteenth Avenue and Sloat Boulevard.

The information contained in this guide is courtesy of the San Francisco Convention and Visitors Bureau.

. . . .

Want more?

Check out all the many club, dance and bar-scene offerings

dutifully put together at

SF Station's Annual Halloween Guide

. . . .

Monday, October 12, 2009

Golden: a Gala Tribute to Rue McClanahan - Castro Theatre - Nov 14th - San Francisco

UPDATE: This event has been canceled. Rue McClanahan is recovering at her home fom recent heart bypass surgery. She is 75 years old. Read more here.

This event is canceled!

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14

Marc Huestis Presents

GOLDEN: A GALA TRIBUTE TO RUE MCCLANAHAN

with Rue McClanahan Live In Person ant the Castro Theatre.

6 pm meet & greet reception 8:15 pm gala main event

It's time to Rue the Day as Marc Huestis presents

GOLDEN: A GALA TRIBUTE TO RUE McCLANAHAN

with Rue McClanahan Live in-person!

This glorious tribute includes an full-on stage interview with the Emmy winning actress, star of the classic tv shows THE GOLDEN GIRLS, MAUDE, MAMA'S FAMILY & SORDID LIVES queried by host Del Shores, creator of SORDID LIVES. The golden gala also includes a fabulous career clip reel , a sing-along to the theme from THE GOLDEN GIRLS, a "Golden Girls Gone Wild" Look-A-Like contest, femceed by Heklina (to enter call 415 863-0611) special performances by S.F. Golden Girls Matthew Martin, Pollo del Mar, Heklina and Cookie Dough, and a screening of a special surprise!

Partial Proceeds benefit AIDS Housing Alliance 8:15 pm gala main event - $35 Exclusive VIP Meet & Greet with the Stars - $100 Tix available at 415 863-0611, or at ticketweb.com

Sponsors include Galleria Park Hotel, Joie de Vivre Hospitality, Twin Peaks Tavern, Barefoot Wine & Bubbly, and the Castro Theatre

.

Friday, October 02, 2009

Jerry's Handy Deli : San Francisco's best deli sandwich lunch to go and sidewalk cafe near Golden Gate Park

The Assignment: You have been asked to find a really good deli sandwich for a VIP guest of your boss. The deli must be somewhere near Golden Gate Park - say somewhere near 19th and Irving.

The Result: Oh, good luck for you! One of the best deli's in San Francisco just happens to be right near the corner!

But wait a minute - who says this deli is one of the best in San Francisco? After all, there are a lot of deli sandwich businesses in the City and it would take a lot of years to get to know San Francisco well enough to make a sweeping statement like that.

Well, the first time I was old enough to go to a deli sandwich shop on my own was probably when I was around 12 or 13 - that would have been about 45 years ago - and it was right here in San Francisco. So, this opinion comes not from a for-pay advertising publication, or from a corporate rating service where people are neither local or experienced - rather - this recommendation comes from an old San Franciscan who has a pretty good idea what he's talking about - me.

N-Judah and 29-Sunset

If you find yourself on the N-Judah headed out to the beach on a sunny day, get out at 19th Avenue (at Judah) and walk a block up to Irving.

If you're aboard the 29-Sunset bus headed to Golden Gate Park, stop a block away from the park at 19th and Irving and get some sandwiches for your afternoon in the Park.

My husband and I (that's husband as in Registered Domestic Partner because the goddam conservative religious-nut Republicans in California won't let same-sex couples marry) stopped at Handy Deli recently for a quick sandwich and, delightfully, encountered much more than we anticipated.

The owner, Jerry, immediately greeted us with a broad smile and a warm welcome. His wife , who works the counter, was next to greet us and behind the counter and peeking around the corner was a cute little kid with a broad smile that made it clear they are a family - and a happy family at that!

Jerry and his family came to the United States from the Bethlehem in Palestine. They came to America with a dream: to own a small family deli in San Francisco - and here they are - and I am so happy they are here.

What a pastrami sandwich that was!

Jerry went to work preparing one of the absolute best hot pastrami sandwiches I have ever enjoyed. It was great: layers and layers of really tender pastrami. Jerry has a big mustard selection and I chose a course ground Dijon. The bread was fresh, the pickles crisp and snappy and I had a side of Jerry's deli macaroni salad. I added a bottle of root beer and sat outside at a small table overlooking Irving (very close to 19th Ave) with my husband. His sandwich was avocado, Gouda cheese and smoked ham on sourdough - plus a slice of pie.

I don't quite remember what we paid, but it was something under $7 per person - and that's a great price for what we got. It was a lot of food, it was very good food and the people were great.

Now, I know all the ex-pat New Yorkers living in the Bay Area are going to tell me I'm nuts. The best hot pastrami sandwiches are found only in New York - but we're not in New York - were in San Francisco. And if you want the best hot pastrami sandwich in San Francisco - you head to the Handy Deli at 19th and Irving.

And if you want to take some imported beer or liquor on your day excursion, Handy Deli has an impressive selection of high-end brands. They even have a grocery selection with everything you might need for a picnic at Golden Gate Park or Ocean Beach.

And get this: if it's late at night and you want something healthy and homemade and fresh to eat - instead of all that late-night fast-food crap, then take heart! The Handy Deli stays open - serving those great sandwiches - until 2 AM!

So, here are three suggestions for you:

1) Go out to Jerry's and order a hot pastrami (or your personal fave)
2) Go to Yelp and give Jerry a good review (and check out what people say about him!)
3) Next time you plan a day out at Golden Gate Park, remember Jerry's sandwiches!

... and a special word for San Franciscans:

Family-owned small business in San Francisco is something we should cherish and support. Every business is having a hard time now, so let's give our support to the small family-owned businesses and people who we want to stay here in San Francisco.

Go out and say hello to Jerry!

Handy Deli (thehandydeli.com)
1815 Irving Street, San Francisco ()
Telephone:

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