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| Candlelight
Vigil for Slain Neighborhood Grocer
More than 100 Visitacion Valley neighbors and Mayor Willie Brown attended a candlelight Vigil Apr. 6 in memory of Sugi Kim, co-owner of the KC Market at 400 Wilde St. who was shot to death by a masked robber three days earlier after complying with his demands for money and liquor. Both Kim and her husband had just opened the store just after 9 a.m. on Apr. 3 when the gunman entered and accosted the couple before fleeing the scene in a vehicle driven by another person. Residents in the neighborhood fondly recalled the cordial and helpful nature of both Kim and husband Yong Bong, who had opened the store just months earlier to replace the Fijiana Market. Many cards and messages and flowers were left by grieving neighbors at the locked door. S.F. Board of Supervisors adjourned their Apr. 5 meeting in memory of the slain grocer. Home Depot Plans Visitacion Valley Location Home Depot presented its plans to the Visitacion Valley Task Force on Mar. 27 for a newly-constructed 107,000 square-foot store--its first in San Francisco--to be built on the present site of Schlage Lock. With a new facility having replaced an adjacent location a few years ago several miles west in Colma, interest in the new 10.28 acre site at Bayshore Boulevard and Leland Avenue was announced late in February prior to filing a site plan with the City. A planned opening of the new Visitacion Valley location is scheduled for late 2000. Home Depot said it would employ more than 250 workers for the new facility, most of whom would be hired from the immediate vicinity. Foundation in Valley Concentrates on Christian Education A new Visitacion Valley organization geared towards Christian education held its first meeting Mar. 28 at which time it drafted its constitution and elected officers. Following a basic life principle that humankind helps itself to exist, develop, and survive, the Foundation for Christian Education will operate along Biblical truths that birds and other wild animals obtain their food and water from a gracious and loving God, and that even the lilies on the open fields are not forgotten but endowed with beautiful flowers by the Heavenly Father. Having been licensed since Jan. 9, 1997 to do the business of helping spread the word of God, the nonprofit organization was founded by local journalist Gerry L. Galvan as a conduit for ideas inspired by the Scriptures. Collectively, the Foundation will include Jesus Christ's Great Commission to His disciples as one Biblical truth which the Foundation aims to translate into a productive working assignment. Elected chairperson and president was founder Gerry L. Galvan, with son Leonard R. Galvan as vice chairperson and vice president, and both Araceli N. Resus and Raquel Esplana as secretaries. A regular meeting has already been scheduled for March 27, 2000, with two special meetings to be scheduled this year to discuss critical issues. Receiving financial support from professional and private donors, the local group seeks to extend its support to fledgling congregations in various parts of the world, including Sydney, Australia, Davao province in the Philippines, and Beijing, China. Plans include assisting secluded missions in the acquisition of influential books and magazines as they climb mountain tops and penetrate thick forests. "God works in a most loving way," explained one Foundation member of the organization's principles. "Blessings come to those who call on and serve Him." King Center
Announces New
by Gerry L. Galvan After several postponements in the last few years, ground breaking for the new John King Senior Housing (JKSH) on Raymond Avenue has again been scheduled for July 11, 1999. Early Years Academy which now occupies the housing site adjacent to Visitacion Valley Middle School at the north end of Sawyer Street will relocate to another location in the Valley. The announcement was made public during a recent John King Senior Center (JKSC) board meeting where Program Director John King, Jr. shared information of the Redevelopment Board's commitment to release $3,000,000 JKSC had applied for a few months earlier. Applications for JKSH unit occupancy will be made available at JKSC at 590 Leland Ave. Business Networking Workshop in Valley by Gerry L. Galvan Local merchants and residents involved in operating or financing a small business but lacking experience, capital or both can receive professional advice by attending a free business networking workshop from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on Apr. 22 at the Bank of America on Leland Avenue. In cooperation with Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center, a City-based business consulting agency the workshop at Bank of America with provide solid information on real sources of financing for a small business. Renaissance, established during the early 1980s, has conducted business workshops in the City where at least 25 eager entrepreneurs have attended each session to listen and learn fresh ideas on how to start and manage a small business. Steve Harrover, who spelled out basics of the Center in the absence of Manager Rose Tony, referred to flyers which had earlier been distributed in the neighborhood. Topics of discussion will include: What are some resources for saving and budget plans? Why is my credit history so important? What should I know about money management? What resources are available to me? Why should I have a business plan? and What are some sources of money for my business? Bank of America has consistently been active in promoting better business at the Visitacion Valley. Ingleside Station Police Report If you see any of the following described wanted suspects (or vehicles), phone 9-1-1 and give a complete physical description to the police dispatcher. Additionally, refer to the case numbers. District Robberies *On Mar. 22 at 10:30 p.m., there was an attempted robbery on the corner of Alpha and Teddy. The suspect simulated a gun in his pocket in an attempt to rob the victim. The suspect was found when police arrived and arrested after a short foot chase. Case 990352220. *On Mar. 21 at 9:30 p.m., a man got onto a Muni bus at Mission and Persia and noticed three men already on the bus who were looking at him. The man exited the bus at Visitacion and Mansell and the three other men got off also. One of the men then approached the victim and accused him of living in the "Swamp," referring to the Sunnydale area. The suspect then produced a revolver and demanded the victim's property. When the victim failed to comply with the demand, the suspect pistol-whipped him, causing a deep laceration to the top of his head. The suspects then knocked the victim to the ground and beat him as they were removing all of his property, including much of his clothing. The suspects then fled on foot. The suspects are described as: all Samoan males 18-20; #1- 6'3"; 285; black hair pulled back in ponytail, black goatee, wearing a red jacket. #2 - 6';165; blue jacket with hood, mustache #3 no information. Case 990347033. *On Mar. 20 at 8:20 p.m., three teenage boys were riding a Muni 15-line bus at Mission and Geneva when they were approached by approximately 15-20 other teenage boys who beat and kicked them prior to robbing them of their personal property. The suspects are described only as black male juveniles, ranging in age from 10-16 who shouted out "Sunnydale" several times during their assault of the victims before they left the bus at Sunnydale and Santos. Case 990343382. *On Mar. 19 at 4 p.m., a woman was walking on Geneva near San Jose when four female suspects approached her from behind and pushed her as they yelled out racist slurs. The suspects then proceeded to punch the victim and eventually stole her wallet prior to fleeing on foot. The suspects are four black females described as: #1 20-22; 5'11"; 150; braided hair; black jacket; possibly attends City College. #2 & #3: 15-17 yrs.; braided hair; black jackets. #4 15-17; orange jacket, braided hair. Case 990339256. *On Mar. 18, at 3:30 p.m. at Brazil and Madrid, a woman had her purse snatched from behind while walking. Suspect is described as 4'10", 14; wearing black jacket with white lettering on sleeves, no further information is available on suspect. Case 990334256. *On Mar. 15 at 8 p.m., a man exited a Muni bus at Mission and Brazil counting his money and was immediately robbed by seven hispanic youth. The suspects were all 15-19 and wearing blue clothes (no further information). Case 990321106. *On Mar. 15 at 8 a.m., a woman was standing on the corner of San Jose and Rice when a man came from behind her and grabbed her purse. The woman struggled and was struck by the suspect who made off with her purse. The suspect is described as: black male; 25;5'10; 150; black beanie, blue coveralls blue long sleeve sweater, white tennis shoes. Case 990317622. *On Mar. 15 at 7:44 a.m., a clerk was working inside the Piccolo Pete Deli at 2155 Bayshore Blvd. when a man walked into the business wearing a ski mask and holding a revolver, demanding all of the deli's money. The suspect took the money from both the cash register and the safe and fled on foot north on Bayshore, removing his mask as he fled. The suspect is described as a black male, 20s, 5'10", 170, light complexion, bald, clean shaven, wearing a black wool cap, red/black/gold "49ers" parka and beige pants. Case 990317525. *On Mar. 14 at 9:15 p.m., a young man was robbed on a Muni bus by three individuals. They approached him and asked "that he give all his stuff to them." The suspects are all black males 15-19; #1 was 5'8;140; wearing a green jacket, blue ski jacket. #2 no description. #3 was wearing a green jacket. Case 990316414. *On Mar. 14 at 5:45 p.m., two women were walking east on Francis when approached from behind by a suspect who forcibly removed purses from both women. The suspect fled west on Francis and south on Alemany. Suspect was a black male; 28; 6'; 180; wearing all black. Case 990315955. *On Mar. 14 at 11:55 a.m., a woman was walking on the 100 block of Fairmount when a male suspect grabbed her purse. A struggle ensued in which the suspect made his way to a car and the woman was dragged down the street. still struggling . The victim eventually let go and the suspect fled east on Fairmount. The suspect is described as: a black male; 30; 5'10";bald; vehicle was a tan vehicle with California plate starting 3GC. Case 990314850. *On Mar. 13 at 12:50 a.m. a man exited the 14 Muni at Mission and St. Mary's and saw two individuals staring at him. One grabbed him by the front of his throat and forced him to the ground. The suspect was kicked several times and his wallet was removed. The suspects fled east on St. Mary's. Suspects are described as #1) Hispanic male; 20's; 5'8"; 140; wearing a baseball cap, red jacket, blue jeans, short hair in front/ long in back, 2 distinctive scars on right side cheek area. #2 Hispanic male; 20's; 5'4";130; short black hair; wearing black jacket, blue jeans, three loop style earrings in left ear. Case 990309538. *On Mar. 8 at 10 a.m., the Bay View Bank at 4610 Mission was robbed by a black male in a red jumpsuit. He stepped up to the counter and demanded all the large bills while simulating a gun in his left pocket. The teller gave him the money and he fled on foot. The suspect is described as a black male; 25-30; 6'; 180; wearing a red jumpsuit with a hood. Case 990286481. *On Mar. 7 at 7:10 p.m., a male and female were exiting their vehicle on the first block of Pasadena when a black male suspect ran toward the vehicle. The occupants of the car locked the doors but the suspect broke through the window and took the female's purse. The suspect then fled north on Pasadena, he is described as: black male; late 20's; 5'11";170; all black clothing, black beanie cap with eyes cut out, dark complexion. Refer to case 990284582. *On Mar. 7 at 11:05 a.m., a woman was walking south on Cayuga at Seneca when a black male exited a vehicle, ran up to her, and took her purse. The suspect fled back to the truck and drove south on Cayuga. The victim grabbed onto the truck and was drug to Cayuga/Geneva where she was struck by the suspect and released her grip. The suspect is described as a black male; 28; 5'10"; dark clothing, thin build. The truck was retrieved by police and towed. Case 990283051. *On Mar. 5 at 11:30 p.m., a woman was walking east on the 100 block of Laidley when approached from behind by a suspect who took the purse from her shoulder and forced her to the ground. The suspect fled to a waiting car and fled towards beacon. The suspect is described as a black male;22; 5'7"; 180; wearing a black wool cap; dark clothing. Case 990279113. *On Mar. 4 at 6:45 a.m., Piccolo Pete's Coffee Shop was robbed by a man who entered the establishment wearing a ski mask and holding a gun. He demanded the money in the cash register and from the owner's wallet. The suspect fled the scene in an unknown direction on foot. The suspect was a black male; 5'8"; 150; wearing a green army coat, black pants, black ski mask, black long barrel revolver. Refer to case 990027387. District Burglaries *On Mar. 21 between 8 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. a residence in the 810's of Ellsworth was burglarized. One door inside the house was broken through and a "Coach" watch was removed from the room. No information is available on the suspect. Case 990346687. *On Mar. 19 at 11:25 a.m., a house on the 300 block of Harkness was nearly burglarized. The residents were inside when they saw the front door open and a black male stuck his head in the door and exited quickly. The suspect ran to a blue coupe that was driven by another black male. The suspect is described as: a black male; 20-25; 6'; 180; short hair, wearing a black jacket and black pants. No further information is available on the driver or the car. Case 990337551. *On Mar. 17 between 8 a.m. and 10:45 a.m., a house on the 900 block of Prague was broken into through a window. Two handguns (Glock and Sig Sauer), several rings and sets of earrings, and a dragon pendant were reported missing. No information is available on suspects. Case 990328055. *Between Feb. 21 and Mar. 16, a house on the 400 block of Joost was burglarized. There is no information on the suspects or how the house was broken into. Case 990329473. *On Mar. 16, at 7:30 a.m., a house on the 3900 block of Folsom street was broken into by an ex-husband who was still on the premises when the resident returned home. The ex-husband was arrested and taken into custody. Case 990322916. *On Mar. 15 between 7:30 a.m. and 2:45 p.m., a house on the 1300 block of Plymouth was burglarized through a sliding glass door. Items stolen include: a Sony walkman; a wedding ring; a boom box; and a VCR. No suspect information available. Case 990320556. *On Mar. 15 at 2:30 p.m. three Asian male suspects who have been committing daytime burglaries throughout the district hit again on the 600 block of Naples Street. Ingleside officers pursued the suspects as they fled the area in their car, and the driver and owner of the car was eventually arrested and booked for burglary: Wen Liang, 305 Wayland. Two suspects are still outstanding. Case 990319214. *Between Mar. 12 and Mar. 15, an apartment on the first block of Onondaga was burglarized through a rear door by unknown means. A black Pagemart pager and a yellow Polo Sport jacket were reported missing. Case 990321792. *On Mar. 12, between 12:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. a house on the first block of Wanda St. was broken into through the front gate and front window. Cash and jewelry were taken. No information on suspect(s). Case 990308176. *On Mar. 12, at 1:30 p.m., a suspect forcibly entered on the 100 block of Trumbull after ringing the bell. The suspect left quickly when startled by the occupants of the house. The suspect is described as an Asian male; 20-25; 5'5";125; thin build, medium length hair, green thin nylon jacket, blue jeans, white tennis shoes, holding claw hammer. Case 990306625. *On Mar. 12, between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m., a house on the 300 block of Teddy was burglarized. The suspect entered the house through a back door on the second floor. Cash and jewelry were taken. No information on suspect(s). Case 990306114. *On Mar. 12, between 10:15 a.m. and 2:50 p.m. a house on the 600 block of Vienna was burglarized through the front door. Cash and jewelry were taken. No information on suspect(s). Case 990307770. *On Mar. 11, between 2:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., a house on the 200 block of Allison was broken into through a side door. Cash was taken. No information on suspect(s). Case 990303875. *On Mar. 11 at 1:50 p.m. a woman left her home on the 200 block of Teddy Street for approximately 30 minutes, and upon returning home found that her front door screen had been removed. The woman entered her home and saw that it had been ransacked, and she then realized that someone was still inside the home. The woman ran out of her house and to the corner store, where she called the police. A witness the woman back to her house, and two suspects were seen leaving with a bag full of property. The suspects fled to a vehicle which was parked in front of 585 Campbell, and then fled south on Rutland in the car. The vehicle is described as a 1998-99 Acura, 2-door, silver in color, spoiler in back with brake lights in it. The suspects are described as: 1) Asian male; 16-19; 5'8"; 130, hair long on top and shaved on back and sides, wearing a flannel shirt and blue jeans; 2) Asian male; 16-19; 5'6"; 120; hair long on top, shaved in back, wearing khaki pants and dark colored baggy flannel shirt. Case 990302106. *On Mar. 11 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., house on the 600 block of Huron was broken into through the front door and front gate (pried open). Cash, jewelry, and a Sony DVD Player: DVP-5300 were stolen. Suspect(s) unknown. Case 990303104. *On Mar. 11 at 9:55 a.m., a woman living on the 1000 block of Bosworth Street looked out her window to see two men attempting to open the locked doors of more than one parked vehicle with a "bunch" of car keys (very likely master-keys). The suspects were eventually successful, and gained entry to a parked Toyota and then ransacked it. The suspects then fled the area north on Elk from Bosworth in a gold hatchback vehicle. The suspects are described as: 1) male (unknown race(, 20s, braided hair, wearing a blue plaid shirt; 2) male (race unknown), 20s, wearing a black hat. Case 990301114. *On Mar. 9 at 3:30 a.m., a car was broken into on the first block of Camellia by three black males. Officers arrived while the suspects were in the area. The suspects were arrested and will be charged with the crime. Case 990290454. *On Mar. 8 at 1:40 p.m., several asian youths attempted to rob a house on the 100 block of Concord. The suspects had removed the front door knob and were attempting to gain access when the owner of the house came out and scared the suspects. The resident had recognized one of the youths as an individual who had been by the house earlier and asked if "Kevin" lived there. Another of the youths had also come to the house and asked for a person who did not live there. All suspects were asian males 16-18; suspect #1 was 5'6";120; wearing a tan jacket, blue jeans, and black shoes. Suspect #2 was 5'7"; 120; wearing a white jacket. Suspect #3 was 5'7"; 120; wearing a blue coat and blue jeans. Suspect #4 was 5'6"; 120; wearing a black sweat shirt. Case 990288681. *On Mar. 4 at 2:24 p.m., a witness saw a man entering a private residence on the 400 block of 30th Street and then leaving the premises several minutes later with a considerable amount of property. The residence owner returned home a few minutes later, and the witness spoke with the owner and realized that she had witnessed a daytime burglary. The suspect is described as a white male, 35-45, 6'1", 180, unkempt brown hair, moustache, last seen wearing a red and blue striped long-sleeve shirt and blue jean pants. He was driving a silver or grey Dodge pickup truck, bearing a white license plate with blue lettering. The truck had lumber racks and white tool boxes on each side. A red "DODGE" appeared on the tailgate. Case 990272747. Recent Major Cases *On Mar. 6, a male and female suspect were arrested for recklessly evading a police officer. The two suspects were sighted by officers when they neglected to stop at a stop sign. The officers attempted to make a traffic stop, but the suspects accelerated and went through a number of stop signs at speeds up to 50 mph. The pursuit was called off when the suspect turned onto Geneva in order to maintain public safety. The vehicle was spotted shortly after and witnesses led police to find the two suspects and narcotics. Case 990281522. *On Mar. 3, a male suspect was arrested for possession of heroin for sales and transportation of heroin. Police survailed the suspect for some time and found that he was engaging in the above illegal activities. The officers placed this individual under arrest when they thought it safe and likely that he would be in possession of illegal narcotics. Over a thousand dollars cash, and two vehicles were seized as evidence, in addition to the numerous drugs that were found in the suspect's possession. Case 990267475. *On Feb. 26 a male suspect was arrested for possession of methanphetamines, possession of marijuana, and on several local warrants. The suspect was recognized by Ingleside officers from previous contacts. He was taken into custody and the suspected narcotics were found during a search subsequent to the arrest. Case 990247411. *On Feb. 25, a female suspect was arrested while driving a stolen car. During a search that followed the arrest the officers also found what appeared to be methanphetamines. This suspect was also had warrants out for her arrest. Case 990238090. *On Feb. 25, a male suspect was arrested for driving a stolen car. The car was spotted by an Ingleside officer who noted that the driving was suspicious and decided to check the license plate. The officer discovered that the vehicle was stolen and effected a traffic stop, arrested the suspect, and had the car towed so it could be returned. Case 990199094. *On Feb. 21, a male suspect was arrested on a warrant and for intent to sell marijuana. Officers enter the residence through an open door (after knocking and ringing a bell) and found marijuana and various drug paraphernalia. The suspect was arrested and booked. Case #990221465. *On Feb. 17, a male suspect was arrested
for possession of "crack" cocaine and marijuana with intent to sell. The
suspect also had a local warrant out on him. This suspect was apprehended
on the first block of Brookdale. He is held on a $10,000 bail. Case #990201934.
Man Killed by Train at Bayshore Station An unidentified man died Mar. 19 at Caltrain's Bayshore Station on Tunnel Avenue when he stepped in front of a rush hour train just after 5 p.m. not scheduled there for a stop. A suicide note was later found on the platform beside the tracks. Caltrain service was suspended for at least an hour. New Documentary on San Francisco in the 1920s KRON-TV will premiere San Francisco in the '20s, its fourth of 12 regional historical documentaries on Wednesday, Apr. 14 at 8 p.m. This on hour presentation will repeat Sunday, April 18, 25, May 2 and 9 at 8 p.m. on BayTV, Cable 35. Legal Effort Initiated to Protect Property Owners' Rights A collective consisting several San Francisco associations and individual plaintiffs filed a lawsuit Mar. 16 against City laws they claim deprive San Franciscans of their fundamental right for both themselves and their family members to live in residential property they own. Groups filing the complaint include: the Greater San Francisco Association of Realtors, the S.F. Apartment Association, the Coalition for Better Housing. "We want the American Dream to be achievable in San Francisco," said Curt Cournale, president of the Greater San Francisco Association of Realtors. "The basic notion that people can work hard and eventually own and live in their own residential property is not a reality here. The reality in San Francisco is that you're either prohibited by the government or forced to ask permission from the government to call your residential property your home." According to the more than 4,500 San Francisco citizens represented by the plaintiff associations, Proposition G and the new conditional use permit planning code amendment amount to an unprecedented assault on San Franciscan's constitutional right to life, liberty and property ownership. Both measures are targeted as illegal government interference with citizens' fundamental rights. Each law, through different restrictions, prevents property owners from moving into units they own. Defendants named in the lawsuit are
the City and County of San Francisco, the Board of Supervisors, the San
Francisco Rent Stabilization and Arbitration Board and the San Francisco
Planning Commission.
"My rights as a homeowner are being violated," said Cwyner. "I'm a homeowner who's still a tenant because of these laws, and the emotional and financial hardships are severe. Today, I'm paying my rent, the mortgage on the residential property where I had intended to live and attorney's fees. The bottom line is that I had expected to live in the home I bought, but today I'm still a renter." "We want to work with City officials to craft real solutions to the housing crunch," said Charlene Delaney, Chair of the Association's governmental relations committee. "Right now we're dealing with an absurd regulatory situation. Everyone knows we've got a shortage of affordable housing in San Francisco, but we should be looking at solutions, not prohibitions. Solutions must address, for example, the housing needs of the elderly and severely disabled and illegal practices of slum landlords, but they absolutely should not punish aspiring homeowners." Over the past two decades, San Franciscans have seen increasing limitations on property ownership rights. Most recently, Proposition G severely restricted tenancies in common--a primary means by which today's lower and middle income renters purchase homes. The new planning code amendment, which was passed by the Board of Supervisors last month, requires owners to obtain a conditional use permit before moving into their building. Under this scenario, the Planning Commission must consider whether the move will adversely affect San Francisco rental stock before issuing a permit. Because such a move would reduce the rental stock, the law essentially directs the Planning Commission not to issue permits. "We're taking action against unprecedented legal barriers that preclude property owners from living in their own buildings," said Curt Courmale. "These policies are illegally thwarting the reality of home ownership in San Francisco." City Funds Not Being Used in Octavia Boulevard Project Supervisor Leslie Katz responded quickly Mar. 12 to allegations that City funds are being used for the Octavia Boulevard project approved by voters last November in the form of Proposition E. "The claims being made that voters were mislead regarding use of City funds for Proposition E are clearly a case of sour grapes and they are putting a price tag on public safety," asserted Supervisor Katz. "Voters that supported Proposition E understood that supporting the Boulevard was an issue of public safety. Furthermore, it is a red herring to claim that Caltrans money set aside for the retrofit is now in jeopardy and that the City funds are being used to fund the Boulevard." There has been no approval of General Fund money for the development of the Boulevard and City funds are not expected to be in jeopardy. A resolution approved by the Transportation Authority Board on Mar. 8 approved a loan of $400,000 of Prop B funds to the Department of Public Works (DPW) in order to jump start the Central Freeway Replacement Project Office. Per language in the approved resolution, these funds cannot be utilized until an MOU is in place assuring that the funds will be fully reimbursed. "The worst case scenario would be that $400,000 of City funds would be used in a project totaling over $40 million dollars," explained Katz. "If this were the case, how do you put a price tag on public safety and human life?" The Prop B funds on loan to DPW are to be reimbursed from funds already programmed by Caltrans for the work or from proceeds from the land made available when the freeway off-ramps were torn down years ago in Hayes Valley. These plots have a huge capacity to generate revenues because they are worth millions if sold, or can generate in the range of $20,000 per month in parking revenues per lot. Caltrans funds that were allocated for the Central Freeway retrofit project will be made available to the Boulevard project. Talks on the transfer of funds are already underway between the City and Caltrans. A resolution approved by the Transportation Authority was in line with a Board of Supervisors' resolution approved Feb. 17 which called for the establishment of a Central Freeway Project office to oversee implementation of Octavia Boulevard. S.F. Library
Hearings on Strategic
San Francisco Public Library is holding a series of community meetings throughout April and May, in the branches and at the Main Library, to ask the public for help in development of a new strategic plan for the library system. These meetings are employing a planning process recently adopted by the American Library Association (ALA) called Planning for Results. This process, developed in 1998 by the Public Library Association (PLA), a division of the ALA, is a revision of an earlier planning process widely used by libraries throughout the country. Meetings to be held from 7 to 9 p.m. locally include: Tuesday, Apr. 13 at Ingleside Branch, 387 Ashton Ave. for Ingleside, West Portal and Ocean View; Tuesday, Apr. 27 at Portola Branch, 2450 San Bruno Ave. for Portola, Glen Park and Visitacion Valley; and Tuesday, May 11 at Bayview/Waden Branch, 5075 Third St. for Bayview/Wayden and Excelsior. Planning for Results will emphasize development of a library service plan as well as how the Library can contribute to achieving the overall objectives and vision of the community. Participants will have the opportunity to comment on key issues of the Library, such as service to children and youth, consumer information, community referral, business and career information and general information. This process will also actively measure how well library services meet the needs of the people. S.F. Library needs to identify strategic goals and objectives for the next several years, which will allow the Library to fulfill its mission: "The San Francisco public Library is dedicated to free and equal access to information, knowledge, independent learning and the joys of reading for our diverse community." The last long range plan for the Library was developed in 1991. Under Proposition E, the Library Preservation Fund passed in June 1994, the City is required to maintain funding for the Library at a level derived by a formula based on property tax revenue. This enhanced funding was used to expand hours of service and to enhance the materials budget. The legislation also requires that the Library maintain a Main Library and 26 branch libraries, including a library for the blind, throughout the course of 15 years. The purpose of the upcoming public forums, to be held in 12 separate locations, is to review the Library's present hours of operation, which were approved by the Library Commission in 1995. While the Library's budget does not have room to expand hours of service, the Library wishes to learn from the public which open hours best serve the needs of library users. Each meeting will have an agenda which includes strategic planning issues, as well as specific time slots to talk about the designated branches, In addition, there will be time allotted to take comments and suggestions on other branches not scheduled to be discussed that evening, on other library issues not previously raised. The California State Library is supporting several California libraries in Planning for Results, including a $20,000 grant to San Francisco Public Library, which will be one of the first major urban libraries to implement the process. Additional support for the development of the strategic plan is being provided by the Friends and Foundation of the San Francisco public Library. Proposition E requires that the Library hold "at least one public hearing...at the Main and each branch library" where "at least one library commissioner shall attend." To comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the meetings for non-compliant branches will be held at accessible branches which are located as close as possible to the inaccessible branch. Community Lectures on Health Issues St. Luke's Hospital is sponsoring the following free community lectures on Saturdays at 3555 Cesar Chavez St. Call (415) 641-6465 to register for each class. *Nose Woes/Allergies from 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon on Apr. 17. *Getting Ready for Surgery from 1:30 to 3 p.m. on Apr. 24. *Skin Care for the Future from 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon on May 1. LIFT Providing
Self-Employment
Leveraging Individual Foresight and Talent (LIFT), an important outreach and business support program for Southeast San Francisco--including Bayview/Hunters Point and Visitacion Valley--continues to make a lasting economic impression. LIFT adapts a powerful, culturally appropriate operating model, and meets the needs of a diverse community of entrepreneurs. To date, 55 micro, home-based business owners have participated in the program. LIFT facilitates ongoing business development meetings and workshops at its monthly gathering of Mini-Business Association members. Participants are community members who live or have a business in the 94124 and 94134 area codes. Members are actively pursuing the establishment or expansion of a micro or home-based business. Upon determining program eligibility, participants receive an assessment to determine the feasibility of their business venture. After an initial assessment and one-on-one consultation, participants are encouraged to attend monthly business workshops and apply from an Introduction to Business class or a Business Plan Writing class. Mini-Business Association meetings are usually held the second Thursday of each month from 6 to 8 p.m. at City College's Southeast Campus, 1400 Evans St. Call 824-7780 for further information. New Program
Lets Residents
Monday, March 22 marked a new day for oil recycling. It was the start date of a new pilot program allowing selected residents to recycle used motor oil and oil filters at their curb. This one year pilot is being offered to residents living in Visitacion Valley, as well as the Mission, Potrero Hill, Bayview/Hunters Point, Bernal Heights, Portola, Excelsior and Crocker Amazon. The pilot is sponsored by the City and County of San Francisco through a grant from the California Integrated Waste management Board. If successful, the program may be expanded to other neighborhoods. This new program now enables residents who do their own car repairs to recycle their used motor oil and oil filters in a free and easy manner. Curbside Inc. will pick up the used oil and oil filters on residents' regular recycling day. "Since it is against the law to dispose of used oil on the streets, down the drain or in the garbage, many residents have stored oil from previous oil changes," said Paul Horcher, director of Solid Waste Management Program. "This gives residents in these neighborhoods the chance to clear out that used oil and recycle it. It really is beneficial to both residents and the environment." In order to avoid leaks and spills, Curbside Inc. asks residents to follow these simple guidelines when setting out used oil and filters for recycling: *Pour used motor oil into a secure plastic container that has a screw top. Use tape to secure the lid if necessary. Don't use glass containers. *Never mix motor oil with cooking oil, brake or transmission fluids. To find out how to dispose of other hazardous wastes properly, call the Hazardous Waste Hotline at 554-4333. *No more than five gallons of used oil will be accepted per pick up. *Drain oil filters into a pan overnight. Then place the drained filter into a sealed, leak-proof plastic bag. *Set your containers out next to other recyclables on the curb on regular recycling pick-up day. Do not place in blue recycling bin. Pick-up will be at separate time. "One gallon of motor oil poured down a drain can pollute up to a million gallons of water in our creeks, the Bay or Ocean," said Horcher. "So, it's important to recycle used motor oil and filters the right way. Fortunately, this program allows residents to do just that." For more information about this pilot program, call 1-800-449-7587. District Attorney
Announces Crack Down
San Francisco District Attorney Terence Hallinan and California Attorney General Bill Lockyer on Mar. 17 announced the arrest of a San Francisco travel agent for violations of the California Seller of Travel Law. Two other travel agents are being sought in separate cases under arrest warrants issued by the San Francisco Superior Court for misdemeanor violations that include failure to register as a travel agent. Charged with four felony and three misdemeanor violations was Flor de Maria Rivas, also known as Florence Rivas, operator of All Group Travel and Tours. While advertising "affordable fares world wide," the company allegedly failed to deliver on purchased airline tickets and other travel arrangements. Customers ranged from honeymooners to a man seeking to visit his sick mother in Egypt. According to District Attorney Hallinan, "These customers paid in full for tickets they never got and were left with the nightmare of trying to find alterative travel at the last minute." Attorney General Lockyer said, "State law requires travel agents to register and maintain a client trust fund to protect customers making travel purchases. By going after unscrupulous travel agents, we protect California travelers who should get the airline tickets and cruise vacations they paid for and timely refunds if travel plans change." State law requires all sellers of travel to register as travel agents with the Attorney General's Office. Travel agents are required to place all passenger payments into a client trust account until tickets are actually purchased from airlines or cruise companies. Travel agents also must deliver travel tickets to clients with 72 hours of payment in full. Numerous complaints about Rivas and All Group Travel and Tours were received by the Attorney General's office. These complaints were relayed to the San Francisco District Attorney's office for formal investigation that led to the arrest of Rivas. The following are other cases in which the Attorney General's Office has taken action against travel agents: *Suchitra Francis of Wings & Wheels International Travel of Berkeley was fined $2,000 for failure to deposit certain client funds into the designated trust account and failing to make disclosures required by law to customers prior to receiving money for travel purchases. *China Focus Travel, Inc., Shangdong Tourism Bureau and Yan Tao Li in San Francisco were fined $2,000 and assessed late registration fees for allowing their seller of travel registration to lapse. *Ronali Ann de Silva and her company, Sunshine Tours & Vacations in Glendale, were fined $6,000 for false advertising and offering sales incentives without required consumer disclosures. The defendant was ordered to make restitution to customers for unpaid refunds and undelivered trips. *Consolidated Travel Group of Florida and its president Madeline Valdes were fined $8,000 for violations involving the sale of travel certificates commonly used as incentives in timeshare property marketing. Customers seeking to use travel certificates for a cruise were improperly charged "activation" and other fees. The defendant has agreed to reform its marketing procedures and charge the way the certificates are activated, and refund deposits and fees to California customers. *Frank Abedi of Student Summer Abroad Program, who as an unregistered seller of travel falsely promised to high school students tours of two to six weeks in Europe, Africa or Australia. The tours were offered via the Internet to students who sent in fees of $50 to $100 with an autobiographical essay. The defendant has agreed to cease further operations and shut down the web sites which were known to state law enforcement. *Barbara Mowen of Travel Network in Mira Mesa was fined $1,500 and assessed late registration fees for failure to maintain a current registration as a seller of travel. *Big "Tuna Bill" Ghiselin of Try Baja in San Diego for allegedly defrauding consumers and failing to register as a seller of travel. A stipulated judgement imposes penalties of $10,000 and requires the defendant to pay restitution as part of a final judgement. *Dion Fradejas of Kreative Travel in Roland Heights of Los Angeles County was fined $1,000 for operating as an unregistered seller of travel. *Ron E. Tindage of Indotravel, Inc. in West Covina was fined $12,500 for operating as an unregistered seller of travel. *Ed Garcia of Azteca Travel in Norwalk for failure to register as a seller of travel. A $5,000 fine is pending. *Weimin Yu of Wisdon International Trade Corp. for failure to register as a seller of travel. A$7,500 fine was ordered in the case. Program to Target High Risk Urban Youth Junior Achievement, Inc. and the National Association of Urban Bankers, Inc. (along with NAUB's corporate sponsors) began piloting a new program Mar. 12 to reach elementary school students in high risk urban areas of 13 major cities in the U.S. and Canada. Named Invest in Our Youth, the program will address issues of economic literacy. Junior Achievement's Personal Economics curriculum, which teaches personal finance, entrepreneurial skills, setting goals and personal achievement, will be used in the classroom setting. NAUB will provide hundreds of volunteers to serve as educators in the classroom to more than 8,000 children expected to be reached by this educational experience. The program will also include a mentoring component where the NAUB professionals will spend one hour for five weeks in direct contact with the students. Students will also receive exposure to the workforce through job shadowing with their mentor. Marine Sanctuaries Fair at Fort Mason See the DeepWorker 2000, a one-person submarine capable of diving, untethered, to 2,000 feet in the ocean's depths at the Marine Sanctuaries Fair, Saturday, May 8 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Pier One, Fort Mason. Also featured will be interactive exhibits and fun activities from leading Bay Area environmental groups. Friends of
Brisbane Library
To celebrate National Library Week from Apr. 11-17, the Friends of the Brisbane Library will host a series of events, including: *April 14: A lively evening with Albert Goodwyn, coordinator of Supernumeraries for the San Francisco Opera, 8 p.m. at the Mangiare Cafe, 182 Old Country Road in Brisbane. *April 15: Learn what it takes to get started in the fast-growing video game industry and find out about new products to be released in coming months, 7 p.m. at the Teen Center, 22 San Bruno in Brisbane. Healthtalk:
Caring for a Loved
When you ask an Alzheimer's caregiver how they manage day-to-day, they will tell you that it takes a great deal of courage, love, patience, and perseverance to care for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease. Approximately four million Americans have Alzheimer's disease, an illness that slowly destroys the functioning of the brain. Almost 75 percent of home care is provided by family and friends. Unfortunately, most family members are completely unprepared for the new responsibilities when their loved one is first diagnosed. "It is important for caregivers to begin researching their options and planning for their future before a crisis occurs," said Marlene Mahn, MSSW, specialist in the Quality Care Initiative for the Alzheimer's Association. "This includes services such as home care, meals on wheels, adaptive devices, day care, and support groups as well as out of the home placement options, such as assisted living and nursing homes." It is best to be knowledgeable of all resources available before the need arises. Here are 12 steps to help new caregivers get started: 1. Learn all you can. Get your hands on brochures, books and articles about Alzheimer's disease--and the role of caregivers. A good place to start is the Alzheimer's Association. 2. Be organized. Keep a journal to record the telephone numbers of the organizations you contact, the names of people you speak with, and the information you receive. 3. Assess your situation. Does your loved one need minimal supervision or round-the-clock care? Are you emotionally and financially prepared for your loved one to move into your home? 4. Develop an action plan. Talk with friends and relatives and determine who will handle tasks as they are needed (i.e. doctors' visits, cleaning, grocery, personal hygiene, paying of bills, housecleaning). 5. Plan for the future. Talk with your loved one now about their finances. Locate all important financial documents--then consult a lawyer to help you develop a financial plan. 6. Be honest with others. Let friends and other family members know what is going on. They may want to help. 7. Prepare your home. Reducing clutter will make it easier for your loved one to find things more easily. As the disease progresses, you may want to label drawers and rooms with signs, arrows, and pictures. 8. Establish patterns. Develop a daily routine that includes activities at the same time each day. Clocks and calendars can help your loved one keep track of the date and time. 9. Anticipate mood changes. memory loss affects everyone differently. You loved one may have a "catastrophic reaction" and become angry and confused, frightened, anxious--or even suspicious. As you learn the signs, you may be able to prevent outbursts with distraction or a change of scenery. 10. Prevent wandering. Many people with Alzheimer's wander aimlessly around the house--or away from home. there are many reasons for wandering--sometimes they are trying to find something--or trying to get away from real or imagined fears. If wandering is a problem, you can disguise doors and install locks or chimes. The Alzheimer's Association has a nationwide identification program (Safe Return) to help find people and bring them home. 11. Talk to your doctor. Be honest about
problem behaviors. If the doctor prescribes medication, ask for a daily
log.
12. Be good to yourself. being a caregiver can be physically and emotionally draining. To be there for your loved one, you first need to take care of yourself. Take a break when you need it. You deserve it. Suggested Resources:
Stephanie E. Mazzeo-Caputo, MSW, MS, RD is vice-president of Health Education for Doctors+Designers in Westfield, New Jersey, a relationship marketing company that specializes in Patient-Centered Health Education Programs. United States to Investigate Creatine Dumping by Chinese WAUKEGAN, IL - The International Trade Administration of the United States Department of Commerce announced it is initiating an antidumping duty investigation into Chines imports of creatine. The investigation arises out of a Feb. 12 filing on an antidumping petition by Pfanstiehl Laboratories, Inc. and comes on the heels of a similar investigation by the U.S. International Trade Commission. Pfanstiehl Laboratories has developed substantial evidence that Chinese manufacturers are importing creatine into the U.S. in ever-increasing volumes at prices that are significantly below the cost of production. The dumping of Chinese creatine in the United States market clearly violates U.S. trade laws. The Chinese onslaught, assisted by numerous U.S. importers, has seriously damaged U.S. creatine producers, posing a grave and immediate threat to the continued existence of the U.S. creatine industry. Antidumping petitions have been filed by U.S. companies that manufacture computer chips, chemicals, supercomputers, motorcycles, orange juice, TV picture tubes and steel. This is the first petition filed for a nutritional supplement. In initiating its investigation, the U.S. International Trade Administration also indicates that it will investigate whether circumstances exist to warrant the retroactive imposition of dumping duties on Chinese creatine. Imports from China surged more than 150 percent in the fourth quarter of 1998. Pfanstiehl has alleged in its petition that the dumping margin would range from 120 to 152 percent. "We were gratified to see our government bring to bear its substantial resources to prevent the destruction of a U.S. industry by dumped creatine from China," said Ed Holstein, vice-president of Phanstiehl Laboratories. "We can only hope that the process moves quickly in the face of enormous efforts by the Chinese to dump huge amounts of the material here." About Creatine *Creatine is a non-essential amino acid available over-the-counter at almost every nutrition store in the United States. This naturally-occurring substance is found in high concentration in raw meat and fish. Athletes once consumed large quantities of meat to maintain energy during intense exercise. in the 1990s, they have replaced that high meat diet with creatine supplements. *By boosting their body's creatine pool, athletes may be able to extend their workouts and compete longer at a more vigorous level, particularly those engaged in weight training, basketball, football, sprinting and other types of short-term intense activities. *Since creatine is not a drug, its manufacture is not regulated by the FDA. *Since creatine is not a patented drug, physicians are not necessarily knowledgeable about its use. So patients rely on other sources for information. *Recent research at the University of
Massachusetts Exercise Science Department reveals that creatine supplements
lessen leg fatigue in older men. Since creatine may lead to less fatigue
in daily activity, an older individual may do more exercise which would
help prevent the muscle wasting that can occur with disease and the aging
process.
Wrapped in Poetry April is National Poetry Month and California
Poets in the Schools (CPITS) will be celebrating all over San Francisco,,
Marin County and the East Bay by hosting their first annual (W)rap the
Bay. Activities will take place on Tuesday, Apr. 27 between the hours of
9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
San Francisco Board of Supervisors President Tom Ammiano, for example, will get wrapped with poetry created by students from Buena Vista Elementary School, while the buffalo paddock in Golden Gate Park will be wrapped with poetry created by students from Lafayette Elementary School. Children will share the thoughts and images of things that are important to them. These poems will be translated onto paper, fabric or any suitable material. Then, the person, place or object will be wrapped. Further information is available by calling 551-7750. |