San Francisco Writer

Deals by Delivery - From Restaurants to Retail, Invite-Only Discount Clubs Get Personal

2010-05-18T15:40:00.000-07:00

Have you gotten your Groupon, located your Bloomspot or rejoiced in your Rue La La? Well perhaps you have yet to be invited to one of these online emporiums of discounted goods and services. Most can be accessed directly via their websites, even Rue La La, an online "private sale boutique," which maintains an air of exclusivity, is easily joined with nary a formal invite in sight.

Groupon, Bloomspot and Living Social are all excellent sites for dining and personal services, while the whimsically named Rue La La and ideeli focus on retail luxury items. Groupon deals I have personally enjoyed include a trip to Stevenswood Resort & Spa in Mendocino, a package of laser treatments at Smooth SF, and a fire dancing class at Temple of Poi.

Both Groupon and Living Social have created iPhone apps, which make downloading deals on the go as simple as a few taps on the screen.

These discount outreach programs seem to have emerged only recently, perhaps a silver lining to the dismal deprivation of the not so great recession.

May 24th update:
Another contender for the daily deal market - Plum District - has emerged. "Plum deals" are family oriented with recent deals including kids' martial arts classes and a %50 off family dinner deal at Cal Mart (of course the bargain groceries could be put to use for a fabulous singles' soiree as well).
http://plumdistrict.com/

Love the San Francisco sunshine!

2010-05-18T15:05:00.001-07:00

So fleeting and hence, so precious!

Angel Island Anniversary & City Lights Books Reading - May Quick Events Listing

2010-05-10T09:59:00.000-07:00

Just a couple of great events brought to my attention by a wonderful local activist friend.

Tues. May 11 12:30 - 1:30 111 Minna Gallery (111 Minna St. - small st. around 2nd, bet. Mkt & Mission) - great gallery space

Angel Island Poetry - on the100th anniv. of Angel Island, author & professor Marlon Hon talks about the poetry carved on the walls of the immigrant dormitories on Angel Island.
Free

Sun. May 16 @ 5 pm Vis-a-Vis" French Author on the West Coast

City Lights Books

Enjoy!

My site is back online!

2010-04-21T13:04:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post to announce that my site is live once again.

www.sanfranciscowriter.com

Power to the Publico

2009-12-09T10:41:00.000-08:00

While I was out enjoying a bit of mid-day, mid-week Christmas shopping, ahhh the joys of a freelancer, I happened upon a little gem of a taqueria.
This concrete clad little taco shack is located in the heart of the busy Trader Joes/Bed Bath and Beyond shopping compound. You're basically dining in a giant garage.
While not traditional in its offerings or locale, Publico proved itself beyond reproof. I ordered one veggie taco and one grilled chicken taco. Both were a great balance of beans, toppings and spice - which was handy given the fact that the hot sauce on offer there is of the atomic habanero variety.
Aguas frescas and tortas are among other options rounding out the often rotating menu. The prices are very reasonable for a non-Mission pit-stop and they enhance the rather austere ambiance with a few nice eco-touches; biodegradable cutlery, recycled napkins, potted palms.
If you'd prefer not to break your holiday shopping stride, Publico makes the grade.

Publico Urban Taqueria

555 9th St
(between Bryant St & Brannan St)
San Francisco, CA 94103

Sangria and Spritzers. I'm Back! And I come bearing peace offerings.

2009-10-13T09:05:00.000-07:00

My regrettably long hiatus has finally halted. I've decided to break my blogging fast with a few indulgences that should delight readers with a thirst for a return to summer. The ingredients for these warm-weather refreshments are still easily found in most local markets - so return to the lazy days of summer with a few fizzy sips.

Rosé Spritzer
4 oz Rosé
2 oz Club Soda
Lemon Twist
Mint

Fill wine glass with ice. Pour in Rosé; top off with club soda. Garnish with lemon twist and sprig of mint.

Summer Sangria
1 Bottle of Red Wine
1 Lemon, cut into wedges
1 Lime
2 Tbsp Sugar
Splash of Mango or Peach Juice
2 Shots of Triple Sec
1 Cup of strawberries
1 Can pineapples
4 Cups ginger ale
Sprigs of Mint

Combine all ingredients and place mixture in refrigerator for 24 hours.

Salud!

Back After a Long Hiatus & Happy Cuatro de Julio!

2009-07-03T14:39:00.000-07:00

I had a challenging month but am ready to get back in action! Just recovering from a very intense bout with the flu, the departure of my housemate, cross country travel and other distractions.

I will resume regularly updating this blog on a regular basis as of this month.

Thanks to any and all of you who are following my entries.

Happy Fourth of July!

Featured Richmond District Resident - Claude, the American albino aliigator -

2009-06-03T12:30:00.001-07:00

CIMG1606
Originally uploaded by SF Writer

He resides in The Swamp exhibit at the California Academy of Sciences. Friendly enough looking chap, if a bit tight-lipped.
http://www.calacademy.org/academy/exhibits/

Happy Hour of the Week - Zingari at the Donatello

2009-05-28T16:06:00.000-07:00

Easily one of the best foodie-friendly happy hour bargains in town, Zingari Ristorante at the Donatello is the perfect low-key choice to nibble and quench on the cheap. If you decide to take advantage of this great value, you might find you're the only guest/s at the bar. So if you like company, bring your own - perhaps bring several friends and create your own ambiance. The bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable, the furnishings tasteful, and the appetizers - a mixed bag. Polenta con fungi and the Ravioli, two of the stellar dishes that are half off during happy hour, are hearty and robust. The fried calamari leaves much to be desired - it's chewy and dare I say griselly. Bottom line - choose your apps with care.

Well drinks and house wines are also 50% off, so they might be all the liquid courage you need to get more adventurous with the menu. After all nothing ventured, not enough pounds gained.

If you miss the bargain bites and beverages the first time around - 4-7pm, return for the second shift. Another happy hour installment takes place 9pm-closing.

Happy Hour of the Week - E & O Trading Company

2009-05-19T10:50:00.000-07:00

E&O Trading company is a popular after-work watering hole for the Financial District set. It's also a great starting point for an evening of gallery hopping, especially on First Thursdays, when galleries host casual receptions featuring wine and lively crowds.

Happy hour starts nice and early and lasts fairly long: Mon-Fri 3pm-6pm, with a featured "elixir"/cocktail for $6, and $3 draft beers and microbrews. Munch on small plates such as my favorites - sweet and salty corn fritters (pictured below) and imperial rolls for a discounted price.

E&O Trading Company is located at 314 Sutter Street, San Francisco, CA 94108. Phone: (415) 693-0303

Happy Hour of the Week - Level 111 - JW Marriott In Union Square

2009-05-12T15:07:00.000-07:00

SF is home to some of the finest dining and drinking establishments imaginable, a blessing for your palate which sometimes feels like a curse on the purse. Luckily, the happy hour options are as plentiful as they are varied. And in a bid to attract budget conscious social butterflies, many of the swankiest boites and most elegant eateries are offering more beverage for your buck. My...ahem, copious research has unearthed some frugal finds that are simply too good to hoard. So please enjoy my first installment of Happy Hour of the Week. Cheers!

Level 111's take 3 happy hour is a great deal, offering: 3 reds, 3 whites, 3 beers, 3 cocktails, 3 plates, 3 hours, ½ price.
4-7 Monday through Friday. The setting is modern yet plush and the enormous, lofty space is usually fairly empty - so it's a great space to catch up with old friends with minimal noise pollution. The impressive fireplace is the centerpiece for a cozy sitting area - very inviting on wet, foggy evenings, while the spectacular sculptural fountain is a photo-op waiting to happen.

The snacks are served in generous portions. I usually share the mac and cheese with a friend - it's a hearty dish that features more than enough fromage for two. Sliders and charcuterie for the carnivores and a couple of varieties of fried spuds round out the menu - definitely not a place to stick to your diet or meet a vegan blind date.

Level III is located in the JW Marriott SF in Union Square at 500 Post Street. Happy Hour is Monday - Friday 4-7pm. www.levelthreesf.com.

Richmond Readers Rejoice! The Renovated Library Reopens May 16th

2009-05-06T09:27:00.000-07:00

Seems like an eternity since the work began on the Richmond/Senator Milton Marks Branch of the public library. The updated structure will re-open Saturday, May 16, with an event-filled opening party featuring music, entertainment, refreshments and lion dancers. Mayor Newsom is slated to make an appearance around 2pm.

The renovation adds 4,000 square feet to the building and includes seismic strengthening, accessibility improvements, and energy-efficiency and technology upgrades.

Other additions include two new study rooms, a spacious new lobby at the 10th Avenue entrance, additional public restrooms, and a designated teen room to keep those pesky kids off my lawn. A large program room was also added, creating a new neighborhood venue for events. The historic integrity of this 1914 Carnegie landmark has been maintained and the building restored to its original grandeur. But of course the real draw is access to a monumental collection of books.

The Richmond/Senator Milton Marks Branch of the public library is located at 351 Ninth Ave. Click here for details.

Feliz Cinco de Mayo - Richmond Round-up

2009-05-05T09:25:00.000-07:00

Hope you're all celebrating with a frosty pitcher of margaritas or a cervesa or two!
If you're at a loss for a location for fiestas in the Richmond District, this shortlist should help.

Tia Margarita, 300 19th Ave., 415-752-9274
Family atmosphere, large dinners, and roomy booths draw local crowds. The friendly, welcoming bar serves up killer top shelf margaritas - Sauza Hornitos, Cointreau & Fresh Lime.

Tommy's Mexican Restaurant
5929 Geary Blvd,(415) 387-4747 - Normally closed on Tuesdays, but open for the holiday.
Famous for its exhaustive selection of tequilas, this Richmond District Landmark also serves tasty Mexican American fare at reasonable prices. The real enticement, however, is that lethal latin intoxicant. The last story I heard about the bar involved a drinking session with the owner which led to a later overnight in the drunk tank.

Pancho's Salsa Bar & Grill
3440 Geary Blvd, (415) 387-8226‎
A customer favorite at this Inner Richmond taqueria is the borracho burrito - and it should be in high demand today. Happy hour specials include $2 beers and discounted guacamole and chips.

!Buen Provecho a todos!

Photo by Cristina Luna

May Day - A North Beach Institution

2009-05-04T10:06:00.001-07:00

CIMG1528
Originally uploaded by cubarrow

On May 1st, motley crew of San Francisco descended on Washington Square Park to bedeck one of the trees with yellow ribbon (caution tape in this case). Local Activist, Nadya Williams, explained on camera as some of the sillier punters paraded by behind her.

Twirl, shimmy and two-step through free events: National Dance Week April 24-May 3rd

2009-04-17T08:55:00.000-07:00

Hip hip (and side to side) hurray! National Dance Week - April 24 - May 3, has brought ten days of free dance to the Bay Area since 1998 and is still going strong with more than 350 free events this year.

From ballet to swing to hoop fire dancing, a wealth of styles and intensity are open for exploration.

My favorite belly dance teacher and choreographer, Sausan, of Sausan Academy of Egyptian Dance, will participate in this illustrious week-long affair by offering free classes - details below:

Saturday - April 25 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM - Dancing to Egyptian Pop Music

Saturday - May 2 from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM - Dancing to Classic Egyptian Music

So take a trip to your sultry side while indulging in some good clean choreographed fun.

Location: Al-Masri Egyptian Restaurant, 4031 Balboa Street, San Francisco, CA 94121
Website: www.sausanacademy.com

For all other free dance events, visit www.bayareandw.org/

Osculation

2009-04-01T14:44:00.000-07:00

Just had to share this long, fairly obscure word for...kissing! It sauntered into my inbox today as word of the day from dictionary.com.

Wow, what a mouthful!

More deals on Valueweekly.com SF Travel Edition

2009-03-30T11:32:00.000-07:00

Check out this weeks edition for deals on Tahoe ski packages, a Carmel Valley getaway and more.

It's all here: http://www.valueweekly.com/san-francisco-travel-edition/

Valueweekly.com - My new gig reveals the best SF travel deals

2009-03-23T16:43:00.000-07:00

I recently started writing for a great new travel site - valueweekly.com

It's a great resource for travel deals in the Wine Country, Lake Tahoe, Carmel/Monterey and right here in fabulous San Francisco!

Please be sure to visit here and click on my articles as often as possible!

valueweekly.com

As an added bonus, subscribe to the newsletter and they'll plant a tree for you to fight global warming!
Endorsed by UN Environment Programme and MokuGift.

Happy International Women's Day!

2009-03-08T11:56:00.000-07:00

It started in 1911 when early feminist Clara Zetkin proposed that every year in every country there should be one day when women's solidarity brings attention to the struggle for equality. While women in the West enjoy the fruits of nearly a century of hard work by dedicated activists, there is still so much to be done. Learn about the history and current pro-women campaigns on the official page.

Great News for Bay to Breakers Revelers!

2009-02-27T10:17:00.001-08:00

A lot of friends were distressed by news that Bay to Breakers was clamping down on participants with a penchant for partying. Well today there's some good news for the racy racers. While booze are still banned, nudity is now allowed. Check out the KRON 4 report below for details:

SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) -- Organizers of the ING Bay to Breakers race are backing off from some of the new rules previously announced for this year's competition.

Spokesman Sam Singer tells KRON 4's Darya Folsom there will be no ban on nudity or floats during the race which goes from Market Street to Ocean Beach. Organizers are holding firm on the ban on alcohol.

"A number of people who run in the race, a number of people who live in the neighborhood said there is a one-word problem with Bay to Breakers and that's alcohol," Singer said. "We want people to be able to enjoy the fun, zany, outrageous nature of the race as well the serious nature and tradition of Bay to Breakers, but what we really need people to do is show respect for the race and the neighborhoods of San Francisco."

Organizers also still hope to force everyone running to pay the entry fee. Singer says that's to help cover the costs of port-a-potties, security, and clean-up. He adds the key is for people to treat each other and the City with respect.

"This year we're not going to allow people have kegs on those floats," Singer added. We're not going to let them carry copious amounts of hard liquor. I think if people act responsibly, treat each other with respect, there won't be a problem. If you try to bring a keg, they're going to be confiscated and bottles taken away because they're just not safe."

San Francisco Supervisors issued the permit for this year's race earlier this week. The ING Bay to Breakers is scheduled for May 17th.

(Copyright 2009, KRON 4, All rights reserved.)

Amazing Weekend in Calistoga - 1st installment

2009-02-12T09:28:00.000-08:00

I recently took a long weekend in Calistoga, and came back refreshed and inspired. Many moons ago, when I was young and foolhardy, I often insisted on visiting the picturesque town for my birthday. Unfortunately, since my "big day" falls in November, each getaway was inevitably dreched by deluges of biblical proportions. Despondent, I reluctantly relinquished the ill formed Autumn-in-Calistoga concept.
So it was an incredibly pleasant surprise when I returned, two weekends ago, under gorgeous sunny skies and warm, yet crisp weather. Strolling down the well maintained, dare I say quaint, main street, I encountered a few of the disarmingly quirky locals. In fact, I hardly made it across the road before I was drawn into Hurd Beeswax Candles, a candle shop/wine tasting room run by the garrulous and animated host, Mary Sue. The only other attraction that rivaled her for buzz was the built-in bee hive. Yes, a bee hive was built into the wall and Mary Sue described the inhabitants as though they were her favorite soap opera characters. She also extolled the virtue of beeswax candles (versus paraffin) quite convincingly. So persuasively, in fact, that I left the shop with two bags of candles - not to mention the gorgeous bottle of Zin from her family winery, On the Edge.

Just joined the SFWNBA - No, I'm not shooting hoops...

2009-02-07T18:58:00.000-08:00

I'm pleased to announce that I have just joined the SF chapter of the Women's National Book Association as the Newsletter Editor. The organization is comprised of talented women writers and I'm looking forward to learning from them and becoming inspired by their success and dedication.

For more information about the SFWNBA and upcoming literary events. visit www.wnba-sfchapter.org

New Presidio Trail!

2009-02-07T18:12:00.000-08:00

Just read the SF Gate article about the new Presidio trail. Looking forward to checking it out tomorrow. I will post pictures.
Here's the article: Presidio Trail

D-Day - Cal Academy Launches Nightlife with Darwin Party

2009-02-03T00:34:00.000-08:00

Every Thursday night, beginning February 12, Cal Academy will defy the stodgy museum stereotype by morphing into a happenin' hotspot reverberating with provocative ideas, music, mingling, and cocktails; as visitors are treated to the rare opportunity to explore the museum at night.
The weekly party kicks off, naturally enough, with a celebration of Charles Darwin's 200th birthday, and the launch of EVOLVE 2009 – San Francisco’s celebration of the Darwin anniversaries. DJ Fluid and J-Boogie from Om records are on the turntables, snakes are circulating for you to meet, and Darwin's Carnival presents an adult spin on evolution. Get the inside scoop on the young Charles Darwin during an informal talk by renowned natural history professor Keith Thomson.

NightLife events run from 6-10pm, and are open to adults ages 18 and up. Show up early to buy tickets for Feb 12 as advance tix are sold-out online. At $8-$10, a night at the museum is a steal.
Details and tickets at www.calacademy.org/nightlife/.
Keith Thompson conversation is at 7:00. Seating is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis.

Iran All Night & Day - Second Annual ‘Iranian Literary Arts Festival’ February 5-6, 2009

2009-01-29T12:22:00.000-08:00

Despite the characterization of Iran as a member of the axis of evil, a place ruled by a despot who harbors nuclear intentions, the appeal of its art, food, film and more simply, culture, seems to slice through all the scare tactics. The popularity of two recent works dealing with the Revolution, the film Persepolis and memoir, Reading Lolita in Tehran, is a testament to the West's fascination with that tumultuous transition.

Now the Translation Project and San Francisco International Poetry Festival mark the 30th Anniversary of the 1979 Iranian Revolution by gathering diaspora poets from all over the world during the Second Annual ‘Iranian Literary Arts Festival’ February 5-6, 2009. It's a rare glimpse of the contemporary Iranian poetry scene.

Lit lovers on a budget will be glad to learn that all events are FREE and OPEN to the public.

Featuring Iranian poets Ziba Karbassi, Granaz Moussavi, Majid Naficy, Partow Nooriala, and Abbas Saffari, the festival opens on Thursday February 5 at 6:30 pm at Book Bay Fort Mason with a roundtable discussion entitled, "30 Years of Be-Longing." The hyphenated term evokes shades of the portuguese word, saudade, that singular expression of nostalgia for what has been lost.

The poets' works appear in the new anthology, BELONGING: New Poetry by Iranians Around the World (North Atlantic Books, August 2008) and the writers will discuss the future of diaspora literature. SF Poet Laureate Jack Hirschman, that North Beach fixture extraordinaire, and Isabelle Thuy Pelaud professor of Asian American Studies at SFSU will also be a part of the roundtable. Moderated by Niloufar Talebi, editor and translator of BELONGING.

"Close to one million Iranians have left Iran since the 1979 Iranian revolution, including many artists. What we've done here at the Translation Project is gather the poetry created outside Iran in the Persian language and created the bilingual anthology, BELONGING, and then created collaborative videos and theater projects based on this exciting poetry. For example, ICARUS/RISE is a show we created to tell the 30-year story of this immigrant community, drawing on the Iranian theatrical spoken-word tradition of Naghali,” says Niloufar Talebi, founder of the Translation Project.

Quotes on BELONGING: New Poetry by Iranians Around the World:

“Niloufar Talebi’s accomplishment in gathering the poetry of the Iranian Diaspora is unprecedented and breathtaking. It is as if she has, by force of commitment and vision, and by way of cultural hunger, bequeathed a new literary heritage to Iran and the world. Here is a lyric symphony of utterance in the voices of exiles, immigrants, refugees, and expatriates. That Talebi assembled such an extraordinary collection is impressive enough—that she translated most of these poems herself is nothing short of remarkable.”
—Carolyn Forché, editor of Against Forgetting: Twentieth Century Poetry of Witness

“In Belonging, with literary skill and passion, Niloufar Talebi has made a major contribution to the recognition of contemporary Iranian literature in the West, to the appreciation of Diaspora poetry by Persian speakers everywhere, and to the important project of producing good translations from rich but underrepresented literary canons for the Anglophone reader.”
—Nahid Mozaffari, editor of the PEN Anthology of Contemporary Iranian Literature

“Niloufar Talebi has accomplished the ultimate magic trick in her clean and modern translation. She has made the work of modern Persian poets read like original English ... an unparalled contribution.”
—Willis Barnstone, author of With Borges on an Ordinary Evening in Buenos Aires

For additional information including registration, visit http://thetranslationproject.org

Bush Street Transformed...

2009-01-21T18:42:00.000-08:00

My friend Anna sent this great shot of the street formerly known as Bush. Loving the change!

Happy New Year - Seems like the year began today!

2009-01-20T11:47:00.000-08:00

Just watching the BBC coverage of today's inauguration events and enjoying the start of a new phase in our country's political life.

It truly feels as if today is the beginning of the new year.

Viva President Barack Obama!

Moveon.org has compiled a list of local celebrations for this evening. Cheers to new beginnings!

Say Formaggio!

2008-12-26T11:38:00.000-08:00

A wise Italian grandma once said (at least I'm willing to bet one did anyway) that one should never pass up the opportunity to partake of some Pecorino or spread some sumptuous Burrata on a crusty ciabatta. This maxim is doubly true when the dairy delights are free. Luxury food retailer, A.G. Ferrari Foods, is currently celebrating “Festa Italiana,” in all of their 13 stores.

Propose a Toast with Prosecco

On Sunday, December 28, from 2-4pm, stop in to see which five Italian cheeses pair well with bubbly.

Italian Pecorino!

On Sunday, January 11, from 2-4pm, guests are invited to Sample more than six regional Pecorino cheeses paired with Italian Mostarde.

Fresh Italian Cheeses

On January 25, from 2-4pm, A.G. Ferrari Foods showcases its large selection of imported fresh cheeses - so if you have never experienced the creamy decadence of Burrata, now is the time...

Did I mention that all cheese tastings are complimentary?! Hmmm...one positive of the economic downturn is the creativity with which businesses are reaching out to customers. This recession buster is a smart and festive way to attract foodies - simply let them eat cheese!

For a list of all A.G. Ferrari Locations:

http://www.agferrari.com/index.php/store.html?sid=OwXiMrZlE3rSImWW

Need your help - Naming our new kitten!

2008-12-19T09:13:00.000-08:00

My new roommate and I are thrilled that a sweet bundle of purring, acrobatic, tail-chasing love has joined our new household. We're just a little conflicted as to what to name him.

I have created a poll (located to the right of this column), and I would love some input of this pressing matter.

A little context for each name:

Pepe - (aka Pepito) as in popular animated romeo/skunk, Pepe Le Pew. His black and white coloring and affectionate nature make it an apt moniker.

Miracle - name of a very dear departed friend. Also, this kitten was found all alone in a box in the snow with nothing but an old towel for company and a few morsels of food. He was miraculously rescued from freezing to death. Gives me shivers to think of it!

Nikko - Japanese word for cat. Just sounds very cute; and what could be cuter than our kitty?

Thanks for voting!
Also, thanks for enduring this onslaught of cooing and overall mushy behaviour.

Perhaps this short video clip will inspire a response:

Armistead Maupin, A Sighting of the True SF Bon Vivant

2008-12-16T00:32:00.000-08:00

Gentle Readers,

I was honored to meet one of our local literary luminaries, Armistead Maupin. The friendly author made an appearance at City Lights Books in September to promote Berlin Stories, which he credits for inspiring his own bestseller - Tales of the City. Maupin has written an introduction, for the Isherwood classic.

My friend Anica (pictured far left - the one without the mustache), invited me to join her there for the reading.

This post is a bit late, but I'm doing a bit of year-end "housecleaning," so I'm glad I'm able to rescue this memory from digital obscurity.

Tonight, December 2nd! 2000 Free Bike Lights Get Your Blink On!

2008-12-02T12:50:00.000-08:00

Now there's no excuse to ride without sufficient visibility. And there's a reason not to hate SFMTA quite as much. Nah, feel free to continue to hate them with a passion!

2,000 Free Bicycle Lights Distributed to Increase Cyclists' Visibility and Safety
SFBC and SFMTA team up to install 2,000 bicycle lights at five SF locations

The San Francisco Bicycle Coalition (SFBC) and the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) are teaming up to help cyclists get visible and be safe when riding in the dark by distributing 2,000 front and rear blinky lights to bicyclists across the City at a "Light Up The Night" event on Tuesday, December 2nd from 6pm-7pm.

"The SFBC is promoting safe night riding by distributing free bike lights to those who can't afford or don't have access to them," says Andy Thornley, Program Director of the SFBC, a 10,000 member nonprofit promoting bicycling for everyday transportation. "Bicycle lights are an important safety item and we want everyone to have them, especially during the winter months when it gets dark earlier."

The SFBC aims to make bicycling safer and to raise awareness of the need to be visible when cycling. SFBC volunteers will be handing out bike safety literature and reminding riders that California law requires cyclists to have a front white light and rear red reflector or red light when riding in the dark. Bicyclists can take advantage of this safety and education program by bringing their bicycle to one of the six "Light Up The Night" stations where over 50 SFBC volunteers will be installing 2,000 bicycle lights from 6-7pm Tuesday, December 2nd along these popular, neighborhood bike routes:

• Valencia and Cesar Chavez Streets (St. Luke's Hospital)
• Market Street at Duboce
• Howard St. at 8th
• Polk St. at California
• McAllister St at Webster

The SFBC sponsors numerous safety events throughout the year, from educating youth on bike safety to free bicycle education classes for adults to bicycle bell giveways. The "Light Up The Night" safety campaign is made possible through funding from the SFMTA and volunteer efforts by the SFBC. See www.sfbike.org/lights for more information.

Richmond Recession Busters

2008-12-01T08:03:00.000-08:00

As I headed down Ninth Avenue toward a day of meandering about Clement Street, I was greeted by a peculiar and cheerful sight. Some resourceful neighbor had bypassed the bookshop consignment route and set up their own unmanned used book kiosk. Clearly, these folks are handy with scissors and construction paper.
Not a bad selection of paperbacks either. I deposited one dollar into the can, feeling quite virtuous for adhering to the honor system, and deposited my new copy of The Teahouse Fire, by Ellis Avery, into my knapsack. I applaud my neighbors for their initiative. I hope other San Franciscans follow their lead.

5 Reasons Why I Adore the Goodwill on Clement

2008-11-29T19:25:00.000-08:00

1. Racks of clothing are color coded - a typical rack may fade from red to peach to pink - instead of arranged according to size. And there's just something so cheerful about that.

2. Buy one-get-one-free book sales every Saturday ( I picked up Reading Lolita in Tehran and Lovely Bones today along with a Perez-Reverte novel, Seville Communion on a previous weekday for less than $4)

3. I donated two obsolete TV's there and was glad to free-up the resulting closet space

4. My brand new pair of purple Kenneth Cole Flats. Did I mention they were in mint, never before worn condition?

5. Really cheap Christmas ornaments - 99 cents for a big ole box of metallic orbs, a bag of pine-scented potpourri, a mini menorah or a snow globe...just in time for the holidays!

Intrigued? Check out the Goodwill on Clement!

[Photos by Cristina Luna]

Festive & Frugal - A Round-Up of Holiday Shopping Soirees

2008-11-22T12:06:00.000-08:00

We've got some pretty impressive department stores in SF, from Macy's to the newly erected retail palace, Bloomingdale's. But let's face it, few of us have a Balenciaga budget and besides, true affections are best expressed in ways which are far more unique than mass-produced goods can convey. Luckily, there's no need to settle for more of the same; eclectic independent options abound. Plus, there are perks - parties and even gift-wrapping. So snap out of that mall-induced coma, and head to these lively local events.

Curious Finds
Quirky Mission District shop, Paxton Gate (824 Valencia), is the antidote to the generic. Its shelves and walls are lined with the strange and beautiful: taxidermy, framed and mounted insects, fossils and delicate jewelry among other objet d'art.To celebrate its 16th anniversary and the debut of a new sister store, they're throwing a party. Paxton Gate’s Curiosities for Kids just opened its doors at 766 Valencia Street. A selection of unusual and uncommon toys, vintage and new, games, art, and Victoriana—will be available via a variety of independent, local and even “green” suppliers. This latest addition to proprietor Sean Quigley’s expanding business interests is personal. “One of the aims of the new store is to provide a place to purchase the tried-and-true toys we played with as children,” says the soon to be parent Quigley, “as well as the toys our parents played with as children.”

An excellent place to stock up on holiday goodies for the children and dreamers on your list. If you're fortunate, they make up the bulk of your friendships.

When: December 6 from 7-10pm
Where: Paxton Gate’s main store, 824 Valencia

Mission Bazaar
If you're dubious as to the desirability of creative taxidermy on the mantle or fossilized ornaments on the tree, the Mission Bazaar (333 14th St.) is a slightly less ephemeral shopping alternative. Just in time for the holiday season, the hipster swap-meet packages and markets the innate creativity of local artisans inside one of SF's historical landmark buildings.The venue, recently renamed the Armory Community Center (TACC), is a 40,000 square foot hall that provides the perfect setting for this community marketplace.

With over 100 local artisans exhibiting their uniquely designed creative products (fashion, accessories, jewelry, leather and more) and over 15 hours of live performances by singers, musicians, circus and dance acts, DJs and much more, "Mission Bazaar is a totally unique approach to connecting artists and the public that celebrates the artistic richness of the Bay Area," says organizer Justin Katz.

For more about the event or for exhibitor sign-up, visit www.missionbazaar.com

When: December 6th (10am - 6pm) and Sunday, December 7th (11am - 6pm)
Where: 333 14th St.

Party on Polk
To entice local gift-hunters, the Polk District Merchants Association (PDMA) is throwing two parties. On Thursday evenings, Dec. 11 and 18, from 5-8 pm, neighbors, friends and visitors are invited to partake in a plethora of promotions, sweets and treats. And the icing on the gingerbread man? Free gift-wrapping by student volunteers from nearby Galileo High School - at PARTY ON POLK. The cornucopia of stores and businesses in the Polk District is urging SF residents to "shop local" for the holidays.

From restaurants and bars, hardware stores to lingerie boutiques, art galleries to candy shops, most of the retailers are locally owned and operated, offering a wealth of unusual goods and services. "You can find a great gift for anyone along Polk: art, jewelry, clothing, home furnishings, you name it," says Jennifer Farris, owner of Studio Gallery. "During Party on Polk, you can do all your shopping right here, support the local economy and get your gifts wrapped for free - it's less stress and more fun!"
PDMA members hope old and new customers will join in the festivities, get to know their area merchants and be inspired to shop locally. That's a far cry from the anonymity of giant retailers. "This is really a local campaign," stresses Stephen Cornell, longtime owner of the iconic Brownies Hardware.

When: Dec. 11 and 18, from 5-8 pm
Where: Polk Street

Crafty Gifts
Local lefty radio station, KPFA, may be associated with rabble raising rather than fine crafts, music and tasty concession foods, but the KPFA Crafts & Music Fair draws thousands of listeners and supporters for a celebration of arts, music and free speech radio.

Each year, the Fair’s panel of judges selects more than 200 of America’s finest artisans and artists to participate. This much anticipated event offers collectors, craft and holiday shoppers a unique opportunity to purchase high-quality, original, handcrafted work directly from the artists and learn firsthand about their craft. This year, many exhibitors showcase eco-friendly green crafts that utilize re-purposed materials and environmentally sensitive techniques.
Take a break from browsing to dance to non-stop live music performances on the Fair stage including jazz, hip hop,bluegrass, world music and blues. Artist interviews and spoken word by WritersCorps Youth Poets will also be featured .

The FoodPavilion offers visitors a chance to enjoy festive food from around the world. The event benefits KPFA 94.1 fm, the country's first nonprofit listener-sponsored, free speech public radio station. It is the station’s largest off-air fundraiser.

WHEN:
Saturday, December 13, 2008 (10 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.)
Sunday, December 14, 2008 (10 a.m.- 6:00 p.m.)

WHERE:
Concourse Exhibition Center, 635 8th Street at Brannan
Wheelchair accessible.
Complimentary shuttles from the Civic Center BART Station, 8th & Market MUNI bus stop, and the Caltrain station at 4th and
King Streets.
Valet bicycle parking provided by the SF Bicycle Coalition.
Carpooling available with SpaceShare.com.

Vicarious Petting

2008-11-22T11:23:00.000-08:00

Living in SF certainly has its advantages; a big backyard and plenty of square footage are not among them. So even if the landlord allows cuddly creatures, many of us are reluctant to subject a four-legged pet to the crowded confines of apartment-only existence. Well, one annual event may assuage the state of petlessness that afflicts so many city slickers. Yesterday, Nov 21st, the SF/SPCA unveiled its 22nd Holiday Windows at Macy's Union Square.

Every year, the venerable non-profit partners with Macy’s to give homeless cats and kittens, dogs and puppies a second chance to find loving homes. Noted as one of USA Today’s “10 Great Places to Press Your Nose Against the Glass,” Macy’s pet-friendly Holiday Windows inspired the adoption of 277 animals and approximately $34,000 in donations for The SF/SPCA last year. Apparently it pays to gaze upon these heart-string-plucking displays (Sorry, couldn't resist).

And if you do have the luxury of a spacious pad and a benevolent landlord, there's no need to content yourself with vicarious pet ownership. SPCA rep's are on-site to answer questions from potential adopters. Every adoptable animal is medically and behaviorally screened, vaccinated, and spayed or neutered - no feral felons in this bunch. Each pet comes with a 30 day gift of pet health insurance (I had no idea that existed), a pet-parenting DVD, leash and collar (for dogs) and discounts on most SF/SPCA training classes. And then there's the schwag - proud parents will also receive a gift bag filled with samples, treats and valuable certificates from sponsors of the six week long event.

Still undecided? If you're smitten with a kitten or can’t get enough of that adorable doggie in the window, visit www.sfspca.org during Holiday Windows to watch live Web cam footage of your favorite adoptable SF/SPCA fur-ball. Resistance is futile...

WHERE: Macy’s Union Square’s Stockton and O’Farrell Street Windows, San Francisco, CA.

WHEN: The Windows will be available for viewing from store opening until one hour before store closing, November 21, 2008 – January 1, 2009.

campaign for cheap cocktails gets my endorsement!

2008-10-25T16:27:00.000-07:00

I received a tip-off about a great dining and drinks promotion and thought I'd pass the good news along.

During the last few weeks of Election 2008, bar guests at McCormick & Kuleto’s Seafood Restaurant (in San Francisco in Ghirardelli Square/(415) 929-1730) and Spenger’s Fresh Fish Grotto (in Berkeley at 1919 Fourth Street/(510) 845-7771) can “vote” via their drink order beginning Oct. 21 by choosing either a “Love on the Ba-racks” or a “McCain Maverick-tini” cocktail (recipes attached).

After careful consideration, given the current state of politics and the economy, folks may decide to have one of each to wash down some tasty and affordable bar bites ($1.95, $3.95 and $4.95 selections) such as The Ballot Burger, Stump Speech Steamed Mussels, “Change” Chicken Wings and Hanging Chad Hummus.

A great incentive to vote early and often!

Thanks to Tom Walton of Fortune PR for bringing this to my attention!

Cheers!

ohio for obama?

2008-10-19T17:36:00.000-07:00

I just returned from a local Call Party, organized by www.moveon.org and I can't help but feel a tingle of optimism. There were about 10 of us, in a lofty architectural studio, dialing swing states like Ohio and Florida. My entire call list consisted of voters in Ohio - about 100 total. In the two hours or so of calling, I encountered a variety of reactions - many were positive, and described their own volunteer activities. Very few were hostile.

I couldn't help but wonder what their reaction might have been if I had begun the call by announcing the name of the calling event's organizer, Gay Outlaw. I must admit that when I first saw the name on the confirmation email, I presumed it to be a sobriquet for a member of SF's thriving leather daddy community. My conjecture couldn't have been more misguided. Our hostess was actually an accomplished architect with nary a pair of cheekless chaps in sight, and the nom, as far as I could tell, was not de plume. She was charming and cheerful and even gave us clever-looking pins she had designed bearing our candidates visage.

But I digress...I hope we made a difference. A screen encouragingly displayed live coverage of our telephone tallies.
As Obama himself has said, "In the end, that's what this election is about. Do we participate in a politics of cynicism or a politics of hope?"

hoping to amuse myself and others

2008-10-18T18:10:00.000-07:00

I'm hoping this blog will not only serve as a digital quasi belles-lettres and chronicle of my days and nights here in the city, but also keep readers (who exist only in the ether of my imagination at the moment) informed about noteworthy events and dining options - of the largely frugal variety. Let's face it, these are lean times. It's important to cope creatively.

I have also been inspired by meeting Armistead Maupin recently at a City Lights Books in-store event. I read Tales of the City in an evening and a half. It was breezy, fun and delicious. I may attempt to craft similarly episodic stories in this virtual venue.

Hope that once I pique your interest, I'll be able to retain your attention.

Welcome!