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Friday, May 28, 2010

Mireya Zapata, 12-yr-old girl missing-- SFPD needs your help!


San Francisco Police need our help in locating a missing 12-year-old San Francisco girl.

Mireya Zapata is 5/3" and weighs 140lbs. She has brown hair and brown eyes. Mireya is Hispanic.

Mireya was last seen on the afternoon of May 27th when she left school to return home.

Later that day Mireya's mother received an unusual text with unusual grammar that read: "don't look for me no more". Mireya's mother is fearful her daughter is in serious trouble.

Mireya's mother said the girl is not a habitual runaway and this behavior and text is extremely unusual,

San Francisco Police ask anyone with information to contact them immediately at .

This is case No. 100-493-240.

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Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Memorial Day Events in San Francisco -- Monday, May 31, 2010


About the photo: USS Pampanito (SS-383), highly decorated United Sates Navy submarine active in the Pacific during World War II. In this photo Pampanito enters San Francisco Bay beneath the Golden Gate Bridge. Read more about Pampanito below. Pampanito is permanently berthed at Fisherman's Wharf and is open daily for tours. Photo courtesy of the San Francisco Maritime Park Association

Here are the details of the three major Memorial Day events in San Francisco for 2010:
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1) San Francisco National Cemetery at the Presidio
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The premier Memorial Day event in San Francisco is the remembrance ceremonies at San Francisco National Cemetery at the Presidio. Located right on the spot where the Pacific Ocean meets San Francisco Bay at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge, the San Francisco National Cemetery is one of the nation's oldest and most beautiful.
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The Presidio is former Headquarters, U. S. Sixth Army. In 1846 the The U.S. Army first established itself on this site, but the Presidio has been a military post since 1776 when an expedition of Spanish soldiers accompanied Catholic Franciscan friars and some settlers to the area. The friars, under the direction of Father Junipero Serra, chose to live in the area later to be known as the sunny Mission District and established Misión San Francisco de Asís (today, known as Mission Dolores, it is the oldest building in San Francisco and is open daily for tours). The settlers drifted down the peninsula, but the soldiers chose the most strategic real estate: the Presidio.
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The annual ceremony at the cemetery honors all the men and women of the United States military from the nation's founding through to the latest casualty today. The ceremony involves civilian and military participants, various veterans organizations, military color guard and band. The branches of service - Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Coast Guard - are all individually honored. Active units of the Navy, Army Reserve, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and National Guard often participate.
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It's a good mix of people: There are the old World War II vets. They're getting pretty old and fewer in number, but they still come to attention and render a hand salute - and many of them are very highly decorated - genuine American heroes. There are a lot of Vietnam - era vets and a fast growing number of Gulf War, Iraq and Afghanistan vets and their families. We even have some old WWII Russian Red Army vets who come with chests full of medals worn with great and obvious pride. They were our allies during WWII and they still show up to honor our lost. That's brotherhood and that's professionalism among warriors. They are always welcome.
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Veterans are encouraged (if you so choose) to wear uniforms, partial uniforms or caps to identify your branch of service and unit. Remember: veterans can now salute out of uniform (not hand over heart) at the raising and lowering of the national flag and during the playing of the National Anthem. Read the story here.
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In 1884, San Francisco National Cemetery became the first West Coast cemetery to be part of the national cemetery system. Soldiers were buried here at the post cemetery as early as 1849. Through time, the cemetery expanded from 9 acres to its present 27 acres and contains over 30,000 graves, including those of 35 congressional Medal of Honor recipients.

Where: San Francisco National Cemetery at the Presidio on Memorial Day. (map and direction links provided below)
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When: Monday, May 31, 2010
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10 AM: Arrive at the Presidio's Main Post Parade Ground at 10:00 AM. The parade will get underway at 10:30. Participants will march from the Parade Ground to San Francisco National Cemetery.

11 AM: The memorial service at San Francisco National Cemetery will commence at 11:00 AM. The cemetery occupies some of the most beautiful and spectacular real estate on the planet. The cemetery sits next to Golden Gate Bridge and offers a sweeping panoramic view of San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate, the Marin Headlands and the Pacific Ocean. Get directions to the Cemetery here. Federal and state legislators, local community leaders, representatives of the military, veterans organizations and the families and friends of those we have lost will participate.The U. S. Army 75th Division, 5th Brigade will provide a 21-gun salute.

1 PM: The annual Interfaith Peace Service will commence at the Presidio Interfaith Chapel (formerly the Army's Main Post Chapel) near the cemetery. This annual service brings together various faiths to remember and celebrate those who have given their lives for us. The homily, “Honoring the Dead – Supporting the Living,” will be given by Bucky Peterson. Colonel Peterson is a retired U.S. Marine now involved with working to provide easy transition for veterans from active duty to full-time student in the California State University system. The Sausalito Presbyterian Choir will sing under the direction of Ralph Hooper. Refreshments start outside at noon, the service an hour later. You are invited!

Parking: Parking is available on the Presidio near the Presidio Officers’ Club, 50 Moraga Ave., Main Post area. (Download a .pdf Presidio map here)

Public Transit: SFMTA (Muni) provides bus transportation to the Presidio. Also read: Public Transit to the Presidio

Taxi Cabs: Before you jump in a San Francisco taxi, be sure you read this first: San Francisco Taxicab Scams: Read this Warning! Some of the larger, major SF taxi companies include Yellow Cab, Luxor Cab, Desoto Cab and Green Cab.

History of the Presidio: Here is a good source for quick, concise and accurate information about the rich and colorful history of the Presidio of San Francisco provided by the California State Military Museum.

Learn about the Presidio: The Presidio is under the jurisdiction of the Presidio Trust and the National Park Service. Visit the official Presidio Trust website here. Visit the National Park Service Presidio website here.

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Helpful links:
Presidio Golf Course and Clubhouse (very nice cafe, affordable menu, hearty cooking, great views)
LucasFilm Digital Arts Center at the Presidio (on the site of old Letterman Army Hospital))
Restaurants at the Presidio
Presidio Trails and Scenic Overlooks
Crissy Field
Golden Gate Bridge
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2) U.S.S. San Francisco (CA-38) Memorial at Land's End
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USS San Francisco (CA-38) was laid down on 9 September 1931 at the Mare Island Navy Yard, Vallejo, launched on 9 March 1933. San Francisco earned 17 battle stars during World War II. For her participation in the Naval Battle of Guadalcanal, she was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation. For the same action, three members of her crew were awarded the Medal of Honor: Lieutenant Commander Herbert E. Schonland, Lieutenant Commander Bruce McCandless, and Boatswain's Mate 1st Class Reinhardt J. Keppler (posthumous).

USS San Francisco (CA-38) Memorial Service:
Honoring
San Francisco's own and honoring the United States Navy and USN veterans
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Sunday, May 30, 2010 at 12 Noon
Lands End, Fort Miley, San Francisco
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This Memorial Service is dedicated to the 100 Sailors & 7 Marines killed in action during the Naval Battle of Guadalcanal (photos of the battle here), November 12/13 - 1942. The “Frisco” saw action from 7 December 1941 at Pearl Harbor - A Date which will live in Infamy – to the final battle of World War ll. See this photo of the USS San Francisco (CA-38) entering San Francisco Bay beneath the Golden Gate Bride in December 1942. More photos are available here and here.
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For details, directions and Program of Service: http://www.usssanfrancisco.org/

USS San Francisco (SSN 771) -- San Francisco's own active-duty nuclear submarine:

USS SAN FRANCISCO is the 24th submarine in the LOS ANGELES class and the sixth ship of that class built by Newport News Shipbuilding in Newport News, Va. The USS San Francisco is the third ship in the Navy to bear the name. USS San Francisco (SSN 71) is currently on active duty with Submarine Force Pacific Fleet and is a part of COMSUBRON 11 based at Naval Base San Diego.
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3) Lost Boat Memorial at U.S.S. Pampanito (SS-383) honoring the United States Navy Submarine Service.
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Navy Lost Boat Memorial at USS Pampanito:
Honoring the
United States Navy Submarine Service and submariner veterans
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A long-standing U.S. Naval tradition, the Lost Boat Memorial, will take place on Memorial Day aboard USS Pampanito, a WWII submarine, which is permanently docked at Pier 45 near Fisherman's Wharf.

USS Pampanito (SS-383) is a World War II Balao class Fleet submarine museum and memorial that is open for visitors daily at San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf. Pampanito made six patrols in the Pacific during World War II during which she sank six Japanese ships and damaged four others.

The ceremony will likely take place around 5 PM, Memorial Day, Monday, May 31st (check with the Maritime Park Association for this year's hours and details: )

The ceremony is free of all charge to everyone who wants to attend and honor the lost sailors of the United States Navy Submarine Service. A performance of will be performed in honor of the 52 submarine boats lost along with the lives of 3,5000 brave American submariners.

Following is a list of the boats and crews that will be honored at the ceremony. This list is provided courtesy of San Francisco Maritime National Park Association. Click on a boat name to read the names of the United States Navy submariners lost with their boat.

United States Navy submarine losses during WWII:

The decisive role played by the Silent Service during WW II is often overlooked, or the significance of their contribution is not fully understood. The Submarine Service represented only 1.6% of all Navy personnel during the war but they accounted for over 55% of all Japanese ships sunk, including one-third of the Imperial Japanese Navy.

Submariners paid a high price for this accomplishment, however, with the highest percentage causality rate of any branch of the service, almost 23%. Fifty-two U.S. submarines were lost during WW II with over 3,500 men. Forty additional men were lost either from gunfire or tragic mishap. It should always be remembered that these men were all volunteers.

Below is a list of each of the fifty-two submarines lost during WW II. Click on a boat name to read the names of the United States Navy submariners lost with their boat.

Lost on Patrol During World War II

1941
USS SEALION (SS-195)
1942
USS S-36 (SS-141)
USS S-26 (SS-131)
USS SHARK (SS-174)
USS PERCH (SS-176)
USS S-27 (SS-132)
USS S-39 (SS-144)
USS GRUNION (SS-216)
1943
USS ARGONAUT (SS-166)
USS AMBERJACK (SS-219)
USS GRAMPUS (SS-207)
USS TRITON (SS-201)
USS PICKEREL (SS-177)
USS GRENADIER (SS-210)
USS RUNNER (SS-275)
USS R-12 (SS-89)
USS GRAYLING (SS-209)
USS POMPANO (SS-181)
USS CISCO (SS-290)
USS S-44 (SS-155)
USS DORADO (SS-248)
USS WAHOO (SS-238)
USS CORVINA (SS-226)
USS SCULPIN (SS-191)
USS CAPELIN (SS-289)
1944
USS SCORPION (SS-278)
USS GRAYBACK (SS-208)
USS TROUT (SS-202)
USS TULIBEE (SS-284)
USS GUDGEON (SS-211)
USS HERRING (SS-233)
USS GOLET (SS-361)
USS S-28 (SS-133)
USS ROBALO (SS-273)
USS FLIER (SS-250)
USS HARDER (SS-257)
USS SEAWOLF (SS-197)
USS SHARK II (SS-314)
USS TANG (SS-306)
USS ESCOLAR (SS-294)
USS ALBACORE (SS-218)
USS GROWLER (SS-215)
USS DARTER (SS-227)
USS SCAMP (SS-277)
1945
USS SWORDFISH (SS-193)
USS BARBEL (SS-316)
USS KETE (SS-369)
USS TRIGGER (SS-237)
USS SNOOK (SS-279)
USS LAGARTO (SS-371)
USS BONEFISH (SS-223)
USS BULLHEAD (SS-332)
ADDITIONAL LOSSES

Are you Returning from Iraq or Afghanistan? Get help and connect with Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA).

Past Posts from Sam Spade's San Francisco that may interest you:
USS New Jersey passes under Golden Gate Bridge - great historic photo!
USS Laffey (DD-724) - the ship that would not die
Coast Guard receives last CPG: up next are the Fast Response Cutters
USS Stockdale (DDG 106) commissioning and opeational facts
Coast Guard joins Navy Safe Harbor program for wounded warriors
USCGC Polar Star gets $29-million refit


Medal of Honor recipients
buried at San Francisco National Cemetery:

First Sergeant William Allen (Indian Campaigns), Company I, 23rd U.S. Infantry. Turret Mountain, Ariz., March 27, 1873 (Section OS, Grave 48-2).

Chief Machinist’s Mate William Badders U.S. Navy. At sea following sinking of the U.S.S. Squalus, May 13, 1939 (Section A, Grave 788-A).

Major James Coey (Civil War), 147th New York Infantry. Hatchers Run, Va., Feb. 6, 1865 (Section OS, Grave 89-1).

Sergeant James Congdon (served under the name James Madison) (Civil War), Company E, 8th New York Cavalry. Waynesboro, Va., March 2, 1865 (Section OSA, Grave 15-7).

Second Lieutenant Matthias W. Day (Indian Campaigns), 9th U.S. Cavalry. Las Animas Canyon, N.M., Sept. 18, 1879 (Section OS, Grave 2-11).

Major General William F. Dean (Korean War), U.S. Army, commanding general, 24th Infantry Division. Taejon, Korea, July 20 – 21, 1950 (Section GHT, Grave 353-B).

Captain Reginald B. Desiderio (Korean War), U.S. Army, commanding officer, Company E, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. Near Ipsok, Korea, Nov. 27, 1950 (Section OS, Grave 128-20).

Lieutenant Abraham DeSomer (Mexican Campaign), U.S. Navy, U.S.S. Utah. Vera Cruz, Mexico, April 21 – 22, 1914 (Section MA, Grave 15).

Colonel Kern W. Dunagan (Vietnam War), U.S. Army, Company A, 1st Battalion, 46 Infantry, American Division. Republic of Vietnam, May 13, 1969 (Section WS, Grave 117-I).

Sergeant William Foster (Indian Campaigns), Company F, 4th U.S. Cavalry. Red River, Tex., Sept. 29, 1872 (Section WS, Grave 197).

Colonel Frederick Funston, Sr., (Philippine Insurrection), 20th Kansas Volunteer Infantry. Rio Grande de la Pampanga, Luzon, Philippine Islands, April 27, 1899 (Section OS, Grave 68-3).

Seaman Rade Grbitch U.S. Navy. On board the U.S.S. Bennington, July 21, 1905 (Section A, Grave 44).

Major Oliver D. Greene (Civil War), U.S. Army. Antietam, Md., Sept. 17, 1862 (Section OS, Grave 49-8).

First Lieutenant John Chowning Gresham (Indian Campaigns), 7th U.S. Cavalry. Wounded Knee Creek, S.D., Dec. 29, 1890 (Section OS, Row 4-A Grave 5).

Chief Carpenter’s Mate Franz Anton Itrich (Spanish-American War), U.S. Navy. On board the U.S.S. Petrel, May 1, 1898 (Section OSA, Grave 83-5).

Staff Sergeant Robert S. Kennemore (Korean War), U.S. Marine Corps, Company E, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division. North of Yudam-ni, Korea, Nov. 27 – 28, 1950 (Section H, Grave CA- 404).

Sergeant John Sterling Lawton (Indian Campaigns), Company D, 5th U.S. Cavalry. Milk River, Colo., Sept. 29, 1879 (Section NAWS, Grave 1392).

Private Cornelius J. Leahy (Philippine Insurrection), Company A, 36th Infantry, U.S. Volunteers. Near Porac, Luzon, Philippine Islands, Sept. 3, 1899 (Section NA, Grave 970).

First Sergeant John Mitchell (Indian Campaigns), Company I, 5th U.S. Infantry. Upper Washita, Tex., Sept. 9-11, 1874 (Section NAWS, Grave 411).

Private Albert Moore (Spanish-American War), U.S. Marine Corps. Peking, China, July 21 – Aug. 17, 1900 (Section WS, Grave 1032-A).

Second Lieutenant Louis Clinton Mosher (Philippine Insurrection), Philippine Scouts. Gagsak Mountain, Jolo, Philippine Islands, June 11, 1913 (Section NA, Gave 1408).

Private Adam Neder (Indian Campaigns), Company A, 7th U.S. Cavalry. Sioux Campaign, December 1890 (Section NAWS, Grave 1805).

First Lieutenant William R. Parnell (Indian Campaigns), 1st U.S. Cavalry. White Bird Canyon, Idaho, June 17, 1877 (Section OS, Grave 68-8).

Corporal Reuben Jasper Phillips (Boxer Rebellion), U.S. Marine Corps. China, June 1900 (Section OSD, Grave 3).

Corporal Norman W. Ressler (Spanish-American War), Company D, 17th U.S. Infantry. El Caney, Cuba, July 1, 1898 (Section WS, Grave 134-A).

Sergeant Lloyd Martin Seibert (World War I), U.S. Army, Company F, 364th Infantry, 91st Division. Near Epinonville, France, Sept. 26, 1918 (Section OS, Grave 128-10).

First Lieutenant William Rufus Shafter (Civil War), Company I, 7th Michigan Infantry. Fair Oaks, Va., May 31, 1862 (Section OS, Grave 30-2).

Private George Matthew Shelton, Sr., (Philippine Insurrection), Company I, 23rd U.S. Infantry. La Paz, Leyte, Philippine Islands, April 26, 1900 (Section OSD, Grave 799).

Gunner’s Mate Second Class Andrew V. Stoltenberg (Philippine Insurrection), U.S. Navy. Katbalogan, Samar, Philippine Islands, July 16, 1900 (Section A, Grave 242).

Sergeant Bernard Taylor (Indian Campaigns), Company A, 5th U.S. Cavalry. Near Sunset Pass, Ariz., Nov. 1, 1874 (Section WS, Grave 1090).

Coxswain Karl Thomas (Boxer Rebellion), U.S. Navy. China, July 18, 1900 (Section NA, Grave 369).

Private William H. Thompkins (Spanish-American War), Troop G, 10th U.S. Cavalry. Tayabacoa, Cuba, June 30, 1898 (Section WS, Grave 1036-A).

Captain Charles A. Varnum (Indian Campaigns), Company B, 7th U.S. Cavalry. White Clay Creek, S. D., Dec. 30, 1890 (Section OS, Grave 3-3-A).

Second Lieutenant George W. Wallace (Philippine Insurrection), 9th U.S. Infantry. Tinuba, Luzon, Philippine Islands, March 4, 1900 (Section OS, ROW 39A, Grave 1).

Seaman Axel Westermark (Boxer Rebellion), U.S. Navy. Peking, China June 28 – Aug. 17, 1900 (Section A, Grave 32).

Sergeant William Wilson (Indian Campaigns), Company I, 4th U.S. Cavalry. Colorado Valley, Texas, March 28, 1872 and Red River, Texas, Sept. 29, 1872 (Section WS, Grave 527).

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HEADQUARTERS GRAND ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC

General Orders No.11, WASHINGTON, D.C., May 5, 1868

  1. The 30th day of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village, and hamlet church-yard in the land. In this observance no form of ceremony is prescribed, but posts and comrades will in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit.

    We are organized, comrades, as our regulations tell us, for the purpose among other things, "of preserving and strengthening those kind and fraternal feelings which have bound together the soldiers, sailors, and marines who united to suppress the late rebellion." What can aid more to assure this result than cherishing tenderly the memory of our heroic dead, who made their breasts a barricade between our country and its foes? Their soldier lives were the reveille of freedom to a race in chains, and their deaths the tattoo of rebellious tyranny in arms. We should guard their graves with sacred vigilance. All that the consecrated wealth and taste of the nation can add to their adornment and security is but a fitting tribute to the memory of her slain defenders. Let no wanton foot tread rudely on such hallowed grounds. Let pleasant paths invite the coming and going of reverent visitors and fond mourners. Let no vandalism of avarice or neglect, no ravages of time testify to the present or to the coming generations that we have forgotten as a people the cost of a free and undivided republic.

    If other eyes grow dull, other hands slack, and other hearts cold in the solemn trust, ours shall keep it well as long as the light and warmth of life remain to us.

    Let us, then, at the time appointed gather around their sacred remains and garland the passionless mounds above them with the choicest flowers of spring-time; let us raise above them the dear old flag they saved from hishonor; let us in this solemn presence renew our pledges to aid and assist those whom they have left among us a sacred charge upon a nation's gratitude, the soldier's and sailor's widow and orphan.

  2. It is the purpose of the Commander-in-Chief to inaugurate this observance with the hope that it will be kept up from year to year, while a survivor of the war remains to honor the memory of his departed comrades. He earnestly desires the public press to lend its friendly aid in bringing to the notice of comrades in all parts of the country in time for simultaneous compliance therewith.
  3. Department commanders will use efforts to make this order effective.

    By order of

    JOHN A. LOGAN,
    Commander-in-Chief

    N.P. CHIPMAN,
    Adjutant General

    Official:
    WM. T. COLLINS, A.A.G.


Other Memorial Day resources from The Veterans Administration:

Also, veterans may want to download this Guide to Veterans Services in San Francisco provided by Nancy Pelosi's office. (in .pdf format)

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Tuesday, May 18, 2010

San Francisco Democratic Party's Endorsements for the June 8th, 2010 Statewide Primary Election

The San Francisco Democratic Party's Endorsements for the
June 8th, 2010 Statewide Primary Election

Local Ballot Measures

Yes on A. School Facilities Special Tax
Yes on B
. Earthquake Safety and Emergency Response Bond
Yes on C
. Film Commission
Yes on D
. Retirement Benefit Costs
Yes on E
. Budget Line Item for Police Department Security for
City Officials and Dignitaries
Yes on F
. Renters' Financial Hardship Applications
Yes on G
. Transbay Transit Center

Superior Court Judge

Seat 6: Linda Colfax
Seat 15: Michael Nava

Statewide Endorsed Candidates
(Adopted at the 2010 convention of the California Democratic Party
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Governor: Edmund G. “Jerry” Brown
US Senate
: Barbara Boxer*
Secretary of State: Debra Bowen*
Controller: John Chiang*
Treasurer: Bill Lockyer*
Insurance Commissioner: Dave Jones
Board of Equalization District 1: Betty T. Yee*
Assembly District 12: Fiona Ma*
Assembly District 13: Tom Ammiano*
Senate District 8: Leland Yee*
Congressional District 8: Nancy Pelosi*
Congressional District 12: Jackie Speier*

Propositions

Proposition 13: Yes
Proposition 14: No
Proposition 15: Yes
Proposition 16: No
Proposition 17: No

* Incumbent

For a complete list of the endorsements for candidates for statewide office click here.

More information is available from the San Francisco Department of Elections

Castro County Fair, San Francisco, May 23, 2010


AIDS Emergency Fund presents:

The Castro County Fair
~ San Francisco Armory
~ 1800 Mission Street ()
~ Sunday, May 23, 2010
~ 11am to 6pm

Join AIDS Emergency Fund (AEF), along with dozens of other community organizations, at the historic SF Armory, for a fun-filled day, featuring community awards, amusing carnival-type games, scrumptious county fair food and libations, as well as hooting ‘n’ hollering San Francisco-style entertainment.


The weekend of May 22nd and 23rd also marks the first observance Harvey Milk’s birthday as a state holiday. The Castro County Fair is truly the type of event that Harvey Milk imagined for the community.

Dog/Owner Look-A-Like Contest »

Vote Now For Your Favorite Contestant

Pie Baking Contest »


More, more and MORE

Advance Tickets – $25 » Purchase Now

Door Tickets » $35
Includes 10 Game Coupons &
Admission For One Child Under 12

Socialize with us!

San Francisco Harvey Milk Day

See Events Schedule » Click Here

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Friday, May 14, 2010

Missing girl in San Francisco: Miriam Delgado, age 15 -- SFPD needs your help


Update: This juvenile has been found and returned to her family. -- per SFPD.

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The San Francisco Police Department issued an urgent alert for a missing juvenile at risk.

Miriam Delgado is 15 years old. She is 4'10" and weighs 90 lbs. Miriam is Hispanic and has black hair and brown eyes. She was last seen Friday, May 7th wearing a black shirt and blue jeans. She is a student at Francisco Middle School.

Photo provided by San Francisco Police Department

If you can help find Miriam Delgado contact the San Francisco Police Department at or after hours.

Alert issued 12 May 2010
Case # 100 425 011
website: San Francisco Police Department
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Thursday, May 13, 2010

King Kamehameha Day 2010 in Hawaii and Aloha Festival in San Francisco


King Kamehameha Day in Hawai'i will be Friday, June 11, 2010. It is an official Hawai'i state holiday. King Kamehameha Day was proclaimed in 1871 by King Kamehameha V, to honor his great grandfather, King Kamehameha I.

The 94th Annual Honolulu King Kamehameha Parade will take place Saturday, June 12th starting at 9:30 am, Honolulu.

In San Francisco the 16th annual San Francisco Aloha Festival will be a two-day celebration on Saturday and Sunday, August 7th and 8th at the Presidio near Golden Gate Bridge.
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The first King Kamehameha Day was on June 11, 1872, and it was one of the first holidays to be proclaimed when Hawai'i became a state in 1959.
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About the photo: Every year on King Kamehameha Day, all of the state, statues of the ruler are draped with strands of fresh flower lei. Click to enlarge in a separate window or tab. Sorry, don't know the photographer, but it's a great shot and it is appreciated. Mahalo.
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Floral Parades
On several islands. The Oahu parade goes from the 'Iiolani Palace to Kapiolani Park.
`Iolani Palace was the official residence of the Hawaiian Kingdom's last two monarchs--King David Kalakaua, who built the Palace in 1882, and his sister and successor, Queen Lili`uokalani. During the monarchy period, the Palace was the center of social and political activity in the Kingdom of Hawai`i. By the way - King David Kalakaua died at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco in 1891.
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Draping Ceremonies
Evening draping ceremony, in whch the Kamehameha Statue that is between the Ali'iolani Hale and the 'Iolani Palace, and the one in Kohala, are draped with long strands of flower lei.
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Cultural Celebrations
In Kapiolani Park in Honolulu and in North Kohala. After the parade there is a Ho‘olaule‘a or block party with food and music. Cultural arts, Hawaiian crafts and Island games are scattered throughout Kapiolani Park and there will be other events planned by the Bishop Museum, the premier Hawaiian cultural institution.
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Ho'oluale'a on Kaua'i
This ho'oluale'a is da kine! The party celebrates the birthday of King Kamehameha the Great. Starting off the day with a Floral Parade filled with floats, walking units, decorated vehicles, mounted horse units, and beautiful Pa`u Princess representing each of the Hawaiian Islands. Followed by 3 hours of entertainment, food and crafters. More info from kauaifestivals.com.

See also:

Saturday, May 08, 2010

Bay to Breakers: possible float problems and a report from SF Supervisor Ross Mirkarimi


An update report on the 2010 Bay to Breakers from San Francisco Supervisor Ross Mirkarimi's office:

The 99th Bay to Breakers will be run on Sunday, May 16th.

Photo: Examiner.com

Last year's race saw a significant reduction in problems and impacts on the neighborhood, although there is still more work to do be done. We are encouraged that the organizers have adopted Supervisor Mirkarimi's suggestion to implement a registration system for floats to generate additional revenue and create a new level of accountability for floats that are abandoned on the streets.

Registration for floats is now closed. Only pre-approved and pre-registered floats will be allowed to enter the race at Civic Center.

Despite the improvements last year, the impact on the Panhandle area was still unacceptable. We are disappointed that the race organizers have not implemented Ross's suggestion of creating an end-point for floats in . He believes creating an event in the Park encouraging floats not to stop in the Panhandle would significantly reduce the impact on the neighborhood. Our office is working with float advocates to encourage them to spread the word that floats should not congregate in the Panhandle, and with the Police Department to ensure that the race is a fun, celebratory event while also respecting our neighborhoods.

Any problems with the race, cleanup, or other issues should be reported to 311. The race organizers will be reimbursing the City for all costs, including police, cleanup, and 311 service.

Special Resident Parking Available During Bay to Breakers!
There will be no parking from 11 p.m. Saturday to 2 p.m. Sunday on the following streets:
* Hayes Street between Market and Divisadero
* Divisadero Street between Hayes and Fell
* Fell Street between Divisadero and Stanyan

To help ease some of the inconvenience, Supervisor Mirkarimi has worked with the Bay to Breakers to allow for off-street parking for residents from 6 p.m. Saturday through 4 p.m. on Sunday at either the DMV Parking Lot (1377 Fell Street) or the Ida B. Wells High School parking lot (1099 Hayes Street).

These lots will be secured and you must present an authorized permit in order to gain access. Permits are available from the Bay to Breakers office by calling 415.359.2800 or emailing . Please submit your request for a permit no later than 5:00 PM on Tuesday, May 11 so that there is time to mail the permit to you
. Permits are only available to residents of the affected areas of San Francisco.

Resources:

Bay to Breakers website
San Francisco 311 website
San Francisco Police Department
Supervisor Ross Mirkarimi's office
Transportation and Parking
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Thursday, May 06, 2010

Control and Tax Cannabis 2010 -- the initiative in easy, simple bullet points


It's time to change the way we think about marijuana and the way we control it.

California voters believe that our laws criminalizing cannabis (marijuana) have failed. According to a recent statewide Field Poll, a majority, 56 percent support legalizing cannabis.

The time for reform is now.

The Control and Tax Cannabis Initiative will:

Control cannabis like alcohol: Allow adults 21 and older in California to possess up to one ounce of cannabis

Give local governments the ability to tax the sale of cannabis to adults 21 and older

Generate billions of dollars in revenue to fund what matters most in California: jobs, healthcare, public safety, state parks, roads, transportation, and more

Control and tax Cannabis California 2010 website: www.taxcannabis.org

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Tuesday, May 04, 2010

SFPD Chief Gascón calls for public meeting to discuss recent possible hate crimes against SF Asian community


SFPD just issued a short, to-the-point notice of a special public town hall meeting with Chief Gascón to address the recent increase in violent crimes against Asian citizens by criminal youth, primarily from the Black community. The Chief denies the attacks have been racially motivated, but a growing number of observers are questioning the Chief's opinion.

Some say the Chief is trying to keep a lid on tensions by rejecting any possible racist connection and say the Chief is in denial.


Others say it is much too early to reach any conclusions about the origin and intent of the perpetrators. Too many questions have not yet been answered. The investigation being conducted is very thorough and has not yet been completed. Our community needs a little time.

It does not serve the people of San Francisco to fan the flames of hate. We do that when we cry "hate crime!" without having clear evidence to support our cry.

Come to the meeting Tuesday, May 11th and listen to the Chief. Ask him questions. State your opinions. Be prepared for fireworks, but hope for peace.

Most importantly, we need to listen to our neighbors and engage them in conversation. Two people talking tends to nurture peace.


Here's the SFPD announcement
:

San Francisco Police Chief George Gascón will conduct a Town Hall Meeting on Tuesday, May 11, at the Southeast Community College, 1800 Oakdale Avenue, from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. The meeting will focus on recent crime in the Asian community.

For further information please contact the San Francisco Police Department Community Relations Unit by calling , or e-mailing the unit at .

Photo by Justin Sullivan / Getty Images North America

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How to Help the Tennessee Flood Victims

Over the past few days, the City of Nashville has been nearly destroyed. Much of the State of Tennessee is under water. Many thousands of Americans are newly homeless today.

A major American City is underwater. The
historic Opryland Hotel was evacuated after severe flooding occurred and destroyed the historic building. The hotel has been closed indefinitely. More than 1,500 guests staying at the hotel were evacuated to a nearby high school.

Nashville is not alone. The State of Tennessee is in a state of emergency.


About the photo:

Hardest hit is the state of Tennessee where torrential rains have swamped much of the state. Authorities predict they will find widespread property damage in the inundated areas. The Red Cross has shelters open in Tennessee, Kentucky and Mississippi and overnight offered food and a safe place to stay to more than 500 people. To find the location of open shelters, please visit redcross.org and click on the “Find a Shelter” link.

Red Cross Emergency Response Vehicles from neighboring states are enroute to the affected areas, bringing with them the capability of delivering food and clean-up items throughout the damaged neighborhoods when it’s safe to do so.

If you would like to help, there are three ways that people can make a donation to the Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund: Visit redcross.org to donate online, call 1-800-REDCROSS, or make a $10 donation by texting REDCROSS to 90999.
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Saturday, May 01, 2010

An invitation: come party with Tom Ammiano, May 6th, San Francisco


I received one of these in the mail the other day and Brian and I intend to go. We both admire and appreciate Tom very much. He can count on our support. San Francisco is much better off for having had Tom Ammiano as a citizen, teacher, LGBT civil rights leader, Supervisor and now representative in the California State Assembly.

About the photo: Assemblyman Tom Ammiano, D-San Francisco, speaks at an AIDS rally in June 2009 to fend off health cuts in the state budget. Photo by the San Francisco Sentinal

Here's your invitation. Mark it on the calendar: Thursday, May 6th.

Speaker of the California State Assembly, John Perez, will be there and will have a few words to say about Tom and then mingle around with everyone. It should be a fun evening. There will be a great mix of people: some politicians (of course), some teachers (and retired teachers), LGBT community leaders, labor union leaders plus rank & file members, tax cannabis supporters, longtime friends, immigration rights activists, children's fund and child abuse rights activists, city employees, community leaders and a real mosaic of our community.

It's not going to be a long event -- just a couple of hours. It will get started at 5:30 pm and wind-down about 7:30.

And the venue is great. While you're at the Triple Crown may I suggest a Crown Mangotini. It's a blend of Absolut Mango Vodka, St. Germain liqueur, fresh mango puree and agave nectar.



You and Your Friends Are Cordially Invited

to the 2010 campaign kick-off party for

TOM AMMIANO

Thursday May 6, 2010
5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

The Triple Crown
1772 Market Street at Octavia ()

special guest Assembly Speaker John Perez

Co-Chair $3900
$1000 Host $500 Patron $250 Sponsor $100 Friend
(will be acknowledged at event)
or
Donation: $35

No Host Bar / Hors D'oeurvres

For information call Esther Marks


MUNI: F streetcar, 6 Parnassus, 71 Haight and Noriega

Re-elect Tom Ammiano to the California State Assembly





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