Jamal Dajani comments on Nidal Malik Hasan - brilliant

I'm a big fan of Mosiac World News on LinkTV. The producer of Mosaic World News is Jamal Dajani, a Peabody Award winning journalist. He is also a member of the San Francisco Human Rights Commission. He's one of the people in our community I genuinely respect.
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Today Jamal Dajani wrote a piece for the Daily KOS about Nidal Hasan and it is brilliant. So, without further fluff from me, here is Jamal's Daily KOS blog post about Nidal Malik Hasan:
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SEVEN messages and counting on my voice mail from different Bay Area reporters, all wanting to know the Muslim community's reaction about the recent heinous killings of Nidal Malik Hasan. All wanting to know what had driven a 39-year-old Muslim to go on a killing rampage, murdering 13 people in Fort Hood, Texas. "He had it all," someone said, "he's an educated man, he's a doctor." Why did he do it?
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Apparently, I fit the profile of someone who has these answers: I am a Muslim Palestinian American: I must know what one out of the 1.5 billion Muslims around the globe is thinking at any given time.
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"Hey, Jamal...sorry to disturb you so early. But you know the Hasan story is big, and I was wondering if you're willing to come for an interview and talk about how it feels being a Maahzlem (Muslim) and all," a television producer says to me on my cell, while I was driving to work.
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"How did you feel being a Christian, with Timothy McVeigh and Adolf Hitler being Christians?" I fired back.
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Silence... I probably should not have said that, but there it is.
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I'm sick and tired of these kinds of questions from media outlets whenever some kooky Muslim decides to commit a random act of violence...or in this case when a GI psychiatrist goes psycho. At the same time, I'm also sick and tired of self-appointed Muslim experts and spokespersons who jump at every miserable opportunity like this one to try to explain Islam.
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"Islam is a religion of peace," they say.
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No, it's not. Not anymore than Christianity is a religion of love. They're just religions, and what you do with them is all up to the believer. More people have died in the name of religion than in any other catastrophe or plague.
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Here is what I know about Hasan:
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He was a disgruntled GI who wanted to leave the military for whatever reason: his conscience, his religion, or for personal reasons. He could have left peacefully. He could have quit and paid the price without hurting others, just like Muhammad Ali, who refused the draft to serve in Vietnam but did not feel the need to go on a killing rampage. Instead, he was stripped of his heavyweight title and served time in jail.
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Hasan is a coward...not only for committing this heinous act, but for counting on being killed or taking the gun on himself, leaving behind his family and the entire Muslim community to account for his despicable actions.
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Read more about Mosaic World News on Daily KOS

Follow Jamal Dajani on Twitter

Visit the Mosaic World News website

Visit Jamal Dajani's personal website

Visit Link TV: television without borders

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San Francisco Veterans Day Parade 2009

Special Update Note: The San Francisco Veterans Day Parade is over. It was held Sunday, November 8th - HOWEVER - there are plenty of other events planned this week. Read the full list here: Veterans Day 2009 California Event List

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The 2009 San Francisco Veterans Day Parade was held on Sunday, November 8th. The parade will began at 11 AM at 2nd and Market Streets and proceed up Market Street to McAllister where the parade proceeded up to City Hall. The reviewing stand was directly across from the front steps of City Hall, No. 1, Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place (Polk Street).
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Special Notice from the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA): Looking to help those affected by the Ft. Hood tragedy? Please consider supporting our friends at TAPS: http://www.taps.org/
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Resources:
San Francisco Veterans Affairs Commission
San Francisco City Hall
Directions and map to San Francisco City Hall
List of other veterans, military and merchant marine websites and contacts
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Official 2009 V.A. Veterans Day Poster:
Download a copy of the official 2009 V.A. Veterans Day Poster
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Events outside of San Francisco:
Veterans Day parades and events in other California communties
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Resources for returning veterans and vets looking for a job:
Veterans Resource Library
The Buzz - blog about federal job openings for vets
Help Wanted! 2,100 jobs offered now
U. S. Coast Guard Academy offers tuition-free college - apply online
Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA)
New Post 9/11 G. I Bill - apply online now!
Year of the Military Family, 2009 - links and resources
Saving lives and guarding the coast since 1790. U. S. Coast Guard now hiring!
San Francisco Police Department careers
Swords to Plowshares - San Francisco
Iraq Veterans Project of Swords to Plowshares - San Francisco
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Even More Resources provided by the
Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA):
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Hire Heroes USA
Hire Heroes USA is a national non-profit organization, which provides career placement assistance to disabled veterans from Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Our mission is to be the bridge to a fulfilling career for our heroes to ensure they have the opportunity to enjoy the freedoms they fought to preserve.
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RecruitMilitary
RecruitMilitary was founded in February 1998 and quickly became a leader in the use of contingency search to place transitioning and veteran personnel in positions in corporate America. RecruitMilitary established its reputation on the basis of unparalleled service, attention to detail in all activities, and perhaps most important, great choices for both its job candidates and its employer clients.
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Helmets to Hardhats
Helmets to Hardhats provides the best career opportunities in building and construction trade to those who have earned the nation's support through their years of service and sacrifice, easing the difficult passage into civilian life for military families.
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ESGR: Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve
Guardsmen and Reservists have the right to return to their civilian jobs following their service. National Guardsmen and Reservists who think their employers have acted unfairly -- for instance, if they believe they were fired because of their military service -- should contact the ESGR.
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VetBiz
Find out more about starting and running a veteran-owned business.
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Veteran Job Search at Military.com
Search over 100,000 job postings online.
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REALifelines
The Recovery and Employment Assistance Lifelines initiative is a joint project of the U.S. Department of Labor, the Bethesda Naval Medical Center and the Walter Reed Army Medical Center. It will create a seamless, personalized assistance network to ensure that seriously wounded and injured service members who cannot return to active duty are trained for rewarding new careers in the private sector.
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Career Command Post
CCP specializes in bringing transitioning active duty military personnel and armed forces veterans together with civilian employers hiring for executive, managerial, professional, technical, skilled and semi-skilled positions, from the Military Transition Group, Inc.
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VetJobs.com
A great site for veterans and transitioning military personnel and their family members. Job openings for all levels and types of jobs. You can search for jobs (by type, keyword, and location), as well as post your resume sponsored by Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. Free to job-seekers.
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HireVetsFirst.gov
Veterans seeking employment opportunities can use this free site to search for jobs, get help writing a great resume, and find out how military skills translate into occupational skills. Employers can also use this site to post job openings.
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Return to Work
This organization works to provide vocational rehabilitation to veterans returning home from Iraq and Afghanistan. Job-seekers and employers can post profiles and connect to help veterans return to work.
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USCG CG-1705 (HC-130 Hercules) memorial for lost crew from AIRSTA Sacramento

Honoring Our Fallen Coast Guardians,

the crew of CG-1705 (HC-130 Hercules aircraft)

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"They were exceptional - both passionate and dedicated to the Coast Guard mission and the cause of service to the nation. They were also our teammates and friends who will be deeply missed." - Capt. J.J. O’Connor, commanding officer, Air Station Sacramento
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"We’ve lost a great team. Each one of the crew was highly dedicated, valued the mission, and contributed in countless ways to the unit. They will be sorely missed personally and professionally.” -Master Chief Petty Officer Brian Byrd, command master chief, Air Station Sacramento

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Lt. Cmdr. Che J. Barnes was the commander of CG-1705, an HC-130 long-range surveillance aircraft based at Coast Guard Air Station Sacramento, Calif. A 1996 graduate of the Coast Guard Academy, Barnes was awarded the 2009 Cmdr. Elmer F. Stone Aviation Crew Rescue Award. During his 17-year Coast Guard career, Barnes also received the Coast Guard Commendation Medal, three Coast Guard Achievement Medals and two Coast Guard Letter of Commendation
ribbons.

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A native of Capay, Calif., Barnes is survived by his father, Martin K. Barnes; twin brother, Noah L. Barnes, brothers; Thaddeus F.M. Barsotti, and Freeman O. Barsotti; and girlfriend, Carrie Reynolds. He is preceded in death by his mother, Kathleen F. Barsotti.
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Lt. Adam W. Bryant was the co-pilot of CG-1705. Bryant was a 2003 graduate of the Coast Guard Academy and was a recipient of the Coast Guard Commandant’s Letter of Commendation ribbon. A native of Crewe, Va., Bryant is survived by his mother, Nina Bryant; father, Jerry Bryant; and brother, Benjamin Bryant.

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Chief Petty Officer John F. Seidman was the flight engineer of CG-1705, an HC-130 long-range surveillance aircraft based at Coast Guard Air Station Sacramento, Calif. In his 23 years of service, Seidman was awarded the Coast Guard Commendation Medal, Coast Guard Achievement Medal, Coast Guard Commandant’s Letter of Commendation Ribbon, and
seven Coast Guard Good Conduct Medals. A native of Stockton, Calif., Seidman is survived by his wife, Jennifer Seidman; parents, William (Bill) and Connie Seidman; and brother, Jeffery
Seidman.

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Petty Officer 2nd Class Carl P. Grigonis was the navigator of CG-1705. In his nine years of service, Grigonis was awarded the Coast Guard Achievement Medal, Coast Guard Commandant’s Letter of Commendation Ribbon, and three Coast Guard Good Conduct Medals.

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A native of Mayfield Heights, Ohio, Grigonis is survived by his wife, Kristen Grigonis; his son, Hayden; the upcoming arrival of their daughter, Kalina; his mother, Janina Grigonis; and brother, George Grigonis.

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Petty Officer 2nd Class Monica L. Beacham was the radio operator of CG-1705. In her nine years of service, Beacham was awarded two Coast Guard good conduct medals.

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A native of Decaturville, Tenn., Beacham is survived by her husband, Seaman Travis Beacham; her daughter, Hailey; her mother, Shirl Jean Merrell; brother, Michael Gipson; and sister, Kelly Johnson.

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Petty Officer 2nd Class Jason S. Moletzsky was air crew for CG-1705. In his seven years of service, Moletzky was awarded the Coast Guard Achievement Medal, two Coast Guard Commandant’s Letter of Commendation Ribbons, and two Coast Guard Good Conduct Medals.

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A native of Norristown, Pa., Moletzky is survived by his fiancé, Christiana Biscardi; parents, John and Lisa Moletzsky; and sisters, Amanda and Rebecca Moletzsky.

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Petty Officer 3rd Class Danny R. Kreder II was drop master for CG-1705. In his four years of service, Kreder was awarded the Coast Guard Commandant’s Letter of Commendation Ribbon, and the Coast Guard Good Conduct Medal.

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A native of Elm Mott, Texas, Kreder is survived by his wife, Victoria (Sovey) Kreder; parents, Jeff and Jodi Woodruff; brothers, Brandon and Cory Kreder; grandmother, Pamela Sue Lyle; grandparents, Wayne and Shirley Sovey; and in-laws, Sam and Tracy Sovey.

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A memorial service for the crew of CG-1705 will be held at USCG AIRSTA Sacramento. The service will be webcast live. For information about the webcast, please go to: http://www.piersystem.com/go/doc/823/376211/

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I stand with Bat Nha! See this video of the Bat Nha violence - support Thich Nhat Hanh

A violent crackdown is underway in Vietnam. The government has beaten the monks and nuns of Bat Nha and literally destroyed the monastery founded by Buddhist monk and peace activist Thich Nhat Hanh. Read this account from Tricycle.

Thich Nhat Hanh is, I suspect, perhaps the most peaceful human living on the planet. In 1967 Thich Nhat Hanh was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Thich Nhat Hanh was a close friend of the late Thomas Merton, a monk of another tradition and an equally profound proponent of peace.

The nuns and monks of Bat Nha urgently need the attention and support of the global community.

Please watch this video:




How you can help: Contact helpbatnha.org

You can also contact Thich Nhat Hanh through his primary residence in France, Plum Village, or through his U.S. center, Deer Park Monastery in California.

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Coast Guard Air Station Sacramento - names, photos & bios of lost C-130 crewmembers

In the photo: Petty Officer 1st Class Darril Kiest, an aviation survival technician stationed at Coast Guard Air Station Sacramento, lowers the station's national ensign to half mast during a morning color ceremony as others pay their respects Sunday Nov. 1, 2009.

The ceremony was held in honor of seven coastguardsmen who were lost at sea when a Coast Guard C-130 Hercules aircraft suffered a mid-air collision with a Marine Corps AH-1W helicopter, Oct. 29, 2009. (Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Alan Haraf.)

The missing crew members from the C-130 are: (click on the name link to see a photograph of the crew member)

Lt. Cmdr. Che J. Barnes, age 35, Capay, Calif., Aircraft Commander.
Job Description: Flight Safety Officer, C-130 Aircraft Commander, and Operations Duty Officer (ODO) Age: 35 Hometown: Capay, Calif. Gender: Male Relationship: Single Awards/Accolades include: 2009 CDR Elmer F. Stone Award Recipient, Coast Guard (CG) Commendation Medal, Global War on Terror Service Medal, three CG Achievement Medals, six Meritorious Unit Commendations, CG Meritorious Team Commendation, two Commandant’s Letter of Commendations, CG E Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, two CG Special Operations Ribbons, CG Presidential Unit Citation, Dept. of Transportation (DOT) 9-11 Ribbon.

Lt. Adam W. Bryant, age 28, Crewe, Va., Co-Pilot.
Job Description: C-130 Pilot, Public Affairs Officer and ODO Age: 28 Hometown: Crewe, Va. Gender: Male Relationship: Single Awards/Accolades include: Armed Forces Service Medal, Global War on Terror Service Medal, CG Presidential Unit Citation, Commandant’s Letter of Commendation, CG E Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, CG Special Operations Service Ribbon, CG Presidential Unit Citation, DOT 9-11 Ribbon.

Chief Petty Officer John F. Seidman, age 43, Stockton, Calif., Flight Engineer.
Job Description: Aviation Maintenance Technician, Shop Chief of Engine/Prop Shop, Qualified C-130 Flight Engineer, and ODO Age: 43 Hometown: Stockton, Calif. Gender: Male Relationship: Married, no children Awards/Accolades include: CG Commendation Medal, Global War On Terror Service Medal, Achievement Medal, six CG Unit Commendations, four CG Meritorious Unit Commendations, Bicentennial Unit Commendation, CG Rifle Marksman Ribbon, two CG Meritorious Team Commendations, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, five CG Special Operations Service Ribbons, CG Presidential Unit Citation, Commandant’s Letter of Commendation, two National Defense Service Medals, Humanitarian Service Medal, CG Special Operations Service Ribbon, CG Presidential Unit Citation, DOT 9-11 Ribbon, seven Good Conduct Medals, and a DOT Outstanding Unit Award.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Carl P. Grigonis, age 35, Mayfield Heights, Ohio, Navigator.
Job Description: Aviation Electronics Technician, Qualified C-130 Flight Navigator Age: 35 Hometown: Mayfield Heights, Ohio Gender: Male Relationship: Married, with children Awards/Accolades include: Global War On Terror Service Medal, Achievement Medal, two CG Unit Commendations, two CG Meritorious Unit Commendations, CG Pistol Marksman Ribbon, CG Meritorious Team Commendations, Commandant’s Letter of Commendation, National Defense Service Medals, CG Special Operations Service Ribbon, CG Presidential Unit Citation, DOT 9-11 Ribbon, three Good Conduct Medals.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Monica L. Beacham, age 29, Decaturville, Tenn., Radio Operator.
Job Description: Aviation Electronics Technician, Qualified C-130 Radioman, Navigator Trainee Age: 29 Hometown: Decaturville, Tenn. Gender: Female Relationship: Married, with children Awards/Accolades include: Global War Terror Service Medal, two CG Unit Commendations, two CG Meritorious Unit Commendations, two CG Meritorious Team Commendations, National Defense Service Medal, two Humanitarian Service Medals, CG Presidential Unit Citation, two CG Good Conduct Medals, and DOT 9-11 Ribbon.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Jason S. Moletzsky, age 26, Norristown, Pa., Air Crew.
Job Description: Aviation Maintenance Technician, Basic C-130 Air Crew. Age: 26 Hometown: Norristown, Pa. Gender: Male Relationship: Single Awards/Accolades include: Global War on Terror Service Medal, CG Achievement Medal, CG Meritorious Unit Commendation, CG Rifle Marksman Ribbon, CG Pistol Marksman Ribbon, CG Meritorious Team Commendation, two Commandant’s Letter of Commendations, National Defense Service Medal, two CG Special Operations Service Ribbons, CG Presidential Unit Citation, two CG Good Conduct Medals.

Petty Officer 3rd Class Danny R. Kreder II, age 22, Elm Mott, Texas, Drop Master.
Job Description: Aviation Maintenance Technician, Dropmaster, Sensor System Operator. Age: 22. Hometown: Elm Mott, Texas. Gender: Male Relationship: Married, no children. Awards/Accolades include: Cutterman Insignia, CG Unit Commendation Award, Commandant’s Letter of Commendation, CG Presidential Unit Citation, CG Sea Service Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal.

All were stationed at Coast Guard Air Station Sacramento where their aircraft was based.

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Official portrait of the First Family of the United States

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

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Click here for a high resolution photo.

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

Follow The White House on Twitter at @whitehouse

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

OODA: Observe Orient Decide Act

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sam Walton started as the guerrilla.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cause them to break ROE.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Follow Michael Yon on Twitter at @Michael_Yon

Read more from Michael Yon at Michael Yon Online Magazine

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

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

NORTH ISLAND, Calif. (NNS) --

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Makin Island (LHD 8) Official Commissioning website

USS Makin Island website

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

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Photos of USS Makin Island

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

San Francisco Animal Care and Control is hosting:

Pet Pride Day 2009!

When: Sunday, October 25, 2009

Where: Sharon Meadow at Golden Gate Park (map)

Cost: Free

Events:

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

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

- Awards: 12:30pm

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

- Pet Camp's Pet Trick Contest: 1pm

- ACC Dating Game: 1:30pm

- Busy Bee Dogs : 1:50pm

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

- Busy Bee Dogs: 2:40pm

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

Hosted by San Francisco Animal Care and Control (City and County of San Francisco) and presented by Pet Camp - where its always doggie and kitty social hour.
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Halloween in San Francisco 2009 - list of events and parties

Alcatraz Night Tour (Thursday-Monday) Alcatraz Landing, Pier 33 - 4:20 p.m. Limited to a few hundred visitors each evening, this tour includes fascinating stories and spine-tingling adventures to the dark corners of the island prison. Tickets range from $19.50 to $33. Reservations required. For tour times and ticket information, visit http://www.alcatrazcruises.com/ or call 415-981-7625.

Oct. 1-31, 2009 - Things That Scare the Staff - California Academy of Sciences, 55 Music Concourse Dr., Golden Gate ParkThroughout the month of October, check out some of the scariest specimens in the Academy’s research collections. Hand-picked by the museum’s scientists, these specimens will be on display near the public Research Lab, and include such chill-inducing species as the Death’s Head hawkmoth — the skull-patterned moth featured in Silence of the Lambs. Free with Academy admission. For information visit http://www.calacademy.org/ or call 415-379-8000.

Oct. 1-Nov. 20, 2009 - Shocktoberfest -The Torture Garden - Hypnodrome, 575 10th St.8 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, special Halloween performance at midnight. Thrillpeddlers’ 10th annual “pageant of terror” offers two one-act plays in the Grand Guignol tradition: The Torture Garden and The Phantom Limb in repertory with Pearls Over Shanghai, the Cockettes musical (extended through Nov. 22). For information visit http://www.brownpapertickets.com/ or call 800-838-3006.

Oct. 2-Nov. 1, 2009 - Creepy Crawly Week - California Academy of Sciences, 55 Music Concourse Dr., Golden Gate Park.In honor of Halloween, face those fears and join the Academy’s naturalists for lessons about creepy-crawly critters, including tarantulas, scorpions, snakes and alligators. A special scavenger hunt will help visitors track down some of the creepiest critters in the building. Additionally, daily programs will allow visitors to meet — and sometimes touch — these traditionally frightening animals. A celebration for Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) will wrap the week’s festivities on Nov. 1. Free with Academy admission. For information visit http://www.calacademy.org/ or call 415-379-8000.

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

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

Oct. 17-18, 2009 - 39th Annual Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival - Main Street, Half Moon Bay9 a.m.- 5 p.m.The World Pumpkin Capital of Half Moon Bay celebrates its bountiful fall harvest with a fantastic lineup of rustic pumpkin patches, harvest-inspired crafts, home-style foods, expert pumpkin carvers, the Great Pumpkin Parade, a bone-chilling haunted house, a titanic weigh-off of champion pumpkins, a pie-eating contest, pumpkin carving, costume contests, a pancake breakfast, a five and 10K run/walk and three stages of blockbuster entertainment. Admission is free. For information visit http://www.miramarevents.com/ or call 650-726-9652.

Oct. 17-18, 2009 - Goblin Jamboree - Bay Area Discovery Museum, 557 McReynolds Road, East Fort Baker, Sausalito10 a.m.-4 p.m.Celebrate the true Halloween spirit at the annual Goblin Jamboree. Children and their families are invited to come in costume and explore the Bay Area Discovery Museum, transformed into a haunted wonderland complete with games, attractions, and live entertainment. Enroll in the witches’ school, take a train or pony ride, visit the petting zoo and enjoy a full brew of games, activities and live entertainment. For information visit http://www.baykidsmuseum.org/ or call 415-339-3900.

Oct. 17, 24 and 31, 2009 - Halloween Flashlight Tours - Winchester Mystery House, 525 S. Winchester Blvd., San Jose6:30 p.m.-12:27 a.m.This one takes the pumpkin. Special flashlight tours ($45 per person) are offered on Oct. 17, 24 and 31 and every Friday the 13th. Tour the rambling mansion with only the moonlight, asouvenir flashlight and your imagination to guide you through a bewildering maze of rooms and stairways. For Halloween, there’s also special entertainment and trick-or-treating in the gardens for the whole family. For information visit http://www.winchestermysteryhouse.com/ or call 408-247-2000.

Oct. 21-31, 2009 - Halloween Swamp Tours - Jelly Belly Candy Co., One Jelly Belly Lane, FairfieldCandy factory tours include the fun and kid-friendly Halloween Swamp at the Jelly Belly Candy Company. Tours detour through a decorated haven of Halloween delights; see the making of jelly beans, candy corn, gummi tarantulas and more on 40-minute tours. Samples for all. For information visit http://www.jellybelly.com/ or call 800-953-5592.

Oct. 23, 2009 - Spooktacular Twilight Tour - San Francisco Zoo, 1 Zoo Road5-9 p.m.Bring the whole family for a Halloween-themed evening at the Zoo. This fun-filled evening consists of a nocturnal safari, a close encounter with some “spooky” animals and carving pumpkins for the animals. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Cost for Zoo members: $30 for children 4-17 years old (children three and under are free) and $35 for adults; non-members: $35 for children and $40 adults. Pre-registration required. For information visit http://www.sfzoo.org/ or call 415-753-8135.

Oct. 23, 2009 - Green Halloween - California Academy of Sciences, 55 Music Concourse Dr., Golden Gate Park.5-6:30 p.m. Benefactor Pre-Party, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Halloween Costume PartyNote: The Academy will close to the public at 3 p.m. on this dayCreep, crawl, slither and slink from the rainforest canopy to the coral reef. Spooktacular activities, entertainment, crafts, and fun for the entire family. Face-to-face encounters with Academy scientists and their fascinating collections, plus surprises galore. Proceeds support the Academy’s education and research programs. For information visit www.calacademy.org/halloween or call 415-379-5411.

Oct. 23, 2009 - Queens Are Wild in the Castro - Mezzanine, 444 Jessie St.8 p.m.-3 a.m.One of San Francisco’s newest Halloween traditions features casino games with celebrity dealers. Presented by the Stop AIDS project and Elbow Grease, the event includes dancing, performances and a silent auction. Ticket levels start at $25 per person (dance party only). To order tickets visit http://www.stopaids.org/ or call 415-575-0150.

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

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

Oct. 24, 2009 - Voices in the Dark - Marin Headlands, 6-9 p.m. Special five-mile, relatively flat, dusk-to-night hike is in search of two inhabitants — the coyote and great horned owl — whose nightly sounds haunt many human visitors. Along the way, learn more about the secret lives of these reclusive characters. Free. Meet at Tennessee Valley trailhead. For reservations, call 415-331-1540 or visit http://www.parksconservancy.org/.

Oct. 24-25, 2009 - Boo at the Zoo - San Francisco Zoo, One Zoo Road, Great Highway and Sloat Blvd.10 a.m.-4 p.m.Make plans to join the animals for two days of not-so-scary, high-spirited Halloween fun at Boo at the Zoo. Kids and their families have an opportunity to visit candy stations throughout the Zoo. Come watch gorillas, bears, chimpanzees and other Zoo animals enjoy their special pumpkin treats during the “Pumpkin Stomp and Chomp.” Venture along the Haunted Nature Trail located inside the Children’s Zoo where a number of animals, such as snakes and owls, are close at hand. Boo at the Zoo also features live entertainment, prizes, crafts and more. The Zoo will also mark Dia de los Muertos. Visitors may bring special photos and keepsakes to place on an alter which has been constructed in the Entry Village to remember beloved family members or pets that have passed away. Free with paid Zoo admission. For information visit http://www.sfzoo.org/ or call 415-753-7080.

Oct. 25, 2009 - Pumpkin Time! Marin Headlands Visitor Center -10 a.m.-noon. Bring the whole family and a pumpkin or two to paint, carve and decorate and share some Halloween folklore. Program limited to 25 people. Reservations required. Free. For information visit http://www.parksconservancy.org/ or call 415-331-1540.

Oct. 25, 2009 - Pet Pride Day - Sharon Meadow, Golden Gate Park - Registration 11 a.m.-noon, event noon–3 p.m. Hosted by Doug McConnell, Pet Pride Day is a fun-filled day of entertainment, education andinformation for everyone with two, or even four, legs. There will be a pet costume contest, trick competition, working animal demonstrations, and all kinds of adoptable animals — from chickens to chinchillas. The event is limited to dogs that must be leashed. For information visit www.sfgov.org/site/acc or call 415-554-6364.

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

Oct. 25, 2009 - Harvest Festival and Halloween Mask Workshop - Marin Headlands Visitor Center1:30-4 p.m.Make masks for the season using non-native materials found around the Headlands and sample heirloom apples. Meet artist Katrina Wagner at the Marin Headlands Visitor Center. Reservations required. For information visit http://www.parksconservancy.org/ or call 415-331-1540.

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

Oct. 29-31, 2009 - Wonderland – A Hollywood Theatrical Production - ®Ruby Skye, 420 Mason St.9 p.m.Experience three nights of Halloween fun as Ruby Skye is transformed into the fantasy world of Alice in Wonderland with more than $20,000 in props and décor. For information on special entertainment for each night, ticketing, dress code and hours visit http://www.rubyskye.com/ or call 415-693-0777.

Oct. 30, 2009 - Halloween Blood Drive - Embarcadero Center, Drumm St. between Three Embarcadero and Four Embarcadero8 a.m.-5 p.m.Vampire fans and all tricker treaters are invited to the Embarcadero Center Halloween Blood Drive. Not only will blood donors contribute to saving lives, they will also be eligible to win vampire-themed prizes, including the complete Twilight saga of hardcover books; a two-night,weekend stay at the Harbor Court Hotel; restaurant gift certificates, and much more. Enjoy treats and goodie bags while celebrating Halloween by donating much needed blood to Bay Area patients. Donor coach will be located at Drumm Street between Three and Four Embarcadero Center. Donors can sign up for appointments at http://www.bloodheroes.com/; enter embarcadero as the sponsor code (case sensitive). For more information call the Tenant Relations hotline at 415-772-0730 or email bmendoza@bostonproperties.com.

Oct. 30, 2009 - Halloween Carnival - Japanese Community and Cultural Center of Northern California (JCCNC), 1840 Sutter St.6-8:30 p.m.Come to JCCCNC’s and the Japanese Community Youth Council’s Halloween Carnival for a safe spooky scene. Indoors arts and crafts, games, a trick or treat parade and a jumper are part of the fun. Space is limited. For information call 415-567-5505 or visit http://www.jcccnc.org/.

Oct. 30, 2009 - An Evening of Curiosities SFMOMA Fall Member Party - San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, 151 Third St.7-10 p.m., galleries open until 9:45 p.m.This is an SFMOMA member event; however, interested party-goers can sign up as members at the door that evening and it promises to be a “crazy night of performance” and a fierce competition for best costume (the winner gets a complimentary one-year SFMOMA membership). Celebrity judges will be on hand and entertainment for this fall exhibition preview includes live music by The Goat Family, Soulful tunes by DJ Sharbaugh, special appearance by The Living Dead Girlz and after-hours dining at Caffé Museo and the Rooftop Coffee Bar. For information call the membership department at 415-357-4135 or email membership@sfmoma.org or visit http://www.sfmoma.org/.

Oct. 30, 2009 - The KISS Screamin’ Halloween Cruise - Hornblower Cruises and Events, Pier 3, The EmbarcaderoBoarding begins at 8:30 p.m.; boat departs at 9:30 p.m.Join 98.1 KISS-FM and Hornblower Cruises for the third annual KISS Screamin’ Halloween Cruise. Come dressed to trick or treat and then jive to KISS-FM tunes. Tasty cocktails, delicious appetizers and stunning views make for a frighteningly good time. Tickets $40. For information visit http://www.hornblower.com/ or call 415-788-8866.

Oct. 30-31, 2009 - HallowScreen! - Walt Disney Family Museum, 104 Montgomery St., The Presidio of San Francisco10: 30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 8:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.These funny bone ticklers include haunted cartoon shorts such as The Skeleton Dance, The Mad Doctor and Pluto’s Judgment Day. Visitors are promised a “howling good time,” and costumes are welcomed. Tickets available online at http://www.waltdisney.org/ or call 415-345-6800.

Oct. 30-31, 2009 - Improv Halloween Show - Bayfront Theatre, Building B, Fort Mason8 p.m.True Fiction Magazine (TFM) returns to the Bayfront Theatre for its annual Halloween shows. Originally inspired by the overblown passions of the ‘30s and ‘40s pulp novels, TFM takes improvised theatre to new dimensions every year. For information visit http://www.improv.org/ or call 415-474-6776.

Oct. 30-Nov. 1, 2009 - Supperclub Halloween Style - 657 Harrison St.“If you’re looking for ordinary, than Supperclub is not for you.” True to form Supperclub marks the Halloween weekend with a series of edgy events including “hot” lesbian hipsters on Oct. 30, 10:30 p.m.-2 a.m.; The Dead Light District Halloween style on Oct. 31, 10:30 p.m.-2 a.m.; and Breakfast in Bed Halloween style on Nov. 1, 5 a.m. Admission is $10 per person RSVP or $25 at the door. For information and reservations visit http://www.supperclub.com/ or call 415-348-0900.

Oct. 31, 2009 - Family Halloween Day - Randall Museum, 199 Museum Way, off Roosevelt above 14th and Castro Streets10 a.m.-2 p.m.Come in costume and join in the kid-friendly festivities at the Randall Museum’s Family Halloween Day. The Museum will be transformed into a Halloween haunt with a gamut of ghoulish games, creepy crafts, tricks and treats, pumpkins and more. Entertainment includes Jackie Jones playing the saw with her amazing dancing cat. Kids, ages 2-12, and their families; must be accompanied by an adult. Admission is free; low cost activities. For information call 415-554-9600 or visit http://www.randallmuseum.org/.

Oct. 31, 2009 - Spooktacular Bike the Bay Ride - 2661 Taylor St., Fisherman’s Wharf10 a.m., arrive at 9:45 a.m. for proper bike fittingBay City Bike Rentals and Tours is slashing their rack rate on Halloween and offering $15 off on their 10 a.m. daily guided tour to Sausalito. Take in the “spooktacular” views of San Francisco – it will be one wicked ride. Regularly $65 per adult, on Halloween the cost is $50 to anyone who mentions the “Spooktacular SFCVB” offer. Tour includes professionally guided three-hour tour across the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito; return ferry ticket; helmet; map; handlebar bag to hold Halloween treats; rear gear rack with bungee; lock; water cage for drinks (water and energy drinks available for purchase); bonus use of bike for the rest of the day and a yummy Halloween treat. To book online visit https://mouse.he.net/~baybike/ or call 415-346-2453.

Oct. 31, 2009 - Munchkin Masquerade - Jelly Belly Candy Co., One Jelly Belly Lane, Fairfield10 a.m.Little ghouls and goblins 10 and under will be right at home at the Jelly Belly Visitor Center; it’s everyone in costume for the Munchkin Masquerade march through the Halloween Swamp in the candy factory tour. Face painting, clowns and treats for kids add to the fun. For information visit http://www.jellybelly.com/ or call 800-953-5592.

Oct. 31, 2009 - Wicked – The Untold Story of the Witches of Oz - Celebrates Halloween at Zeum - Zeum, 221 Fourth St.11 a.m.-5 p.m.Calling all Emerald Citizens! Zeum: San Francisco’s Children’s Museum encourages families to come dressed as Emerald Citizens for a special costume contest at the Zeum Carousel. Come help “greenify” Zeum and participate in one of the Wicked Week family workshops; creativity could lead straight to the Emerald City for a peek backstage and the opportunity to win tickets to the show. Admission is $8 youth; $8 seniors and students; $10 adults; free for visitors age 2 and younger. For information http://www.zeum.org/ or call 415-820-3320.

Oct. 31, 2009 - Halloween Entertainment - The Cannery at Del Monte Square, 2801 Leavenworth St.11:45 a.m.-8 p.m.Musical entertainment begins at 11:45 a.m. For information visit http://www.thecannery.com/ or call 415-771-3112.

Oct. 31, 2009 - Gardens Halloween Costume Walk - Children’s Garden, Rooftop, Yerba Buena Gardens, Fourth and Howard StreetsNoon–2 p.m.Hosted by the Unique Derique and featuring live music, children under 10 and their families are invited to parade around in Halloween finery. The Costume Walk also features performances and interactive games for kids. For information visit http://www.ybgf.org/ or call 415-543-1718.

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

Oct. 31, 2009 - The Haunted Presidio: Halloween Night Walk - Presidio of San Francisco, corner of Lincoln Boulevard and Funston Avenue6:30-8 p.m.Join a ranger- and docent-led tour and learn about the mysteries and unexplained events of the Presidio’s 200-year history. Parental guidance suggested. Dress warmly, wear comfortable shoes and bring a flashlight (optional). Meet park ranger Rik Penn and a docent at the corner of Lincoln Boulevard and Funston Avenue for a moderate, one-mile walk. Space limited. For reservations visit http://www.parksconservancy.org/ or call 415-561-4323.

Oct. 31, 2009 - Teatro ZinZombie – A Macabre Ball at Teatro ZinZanni - Pier 29, The Embarcadero at Battery and Lombard streets6:30 p.m.Teatro ZinZanni will host a special Halloween evening performance full of ghoulish love and chaotic decadence. Audiences are invited to dress up in their favorite costumes and join the Macabre Ball at Teatro ZinZombie. This promises to be a memorable evening that includes a costume parade and prizes to the top three costumes judged by Teatro ZinZanni’s spectacular cast members. For tickets visit www.zinzanni.org or call 415-438-2668.

Oct. 31, 2009 - Monster Bash - USS Hornet Museum, 707 W. Hornet Ave., Pier 3, Alameda Point, Alameda - 7:30 p.m.-12 a.m. All ages are welcomed aboard this National Historic Landmark, the USS Hornet. Aptly nicknamed “The Gray Ghost,” the ship is the setting for a thrilling evening of dancing and haunted happenings. Elvira’s “Fright Simulator” will give party goers a good jolt. The family friendly event will feature live dance music from the ‘60s to the present by The Cocktail Monkeys, prizes for best costumes, a children’s area and haunted tours. Tickets are $20 adults, $10 children up to age 17; $25 at the gangplank. Proceeds benefit preservation of the historic aircraft carrier. For information visit http://www.hornetevents.com/ or call 510-521-8448, ext. 282.

Oct. 31, 2009 - Nosferatu - Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave.8 p.m.Celebrate Halloween with one of early film’s great masterpieces, Nosferatu (1922) directed by F.W. Murnau, which tells the eerie tale of the vampire Count Orlok. A re-imagining of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, the film is dark and mysterious. Experience this movie as it was meant to be seen and heard — with live accompaniment. Dennis James plays the San Francisco Symphony’s incomparable 8,264-pipe Ruffatti organ. Tickets start at $20; half-price for ages 17 and under. For ticket information visit www.sfsymphony.org or call 415-864-6000.

Oct. 31, 2009 - 27th Annual San Francisco Jazz Festival Presents “Halloween Dance Party” - Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Forum, 701 Mission St.9 p.m.For an exhilarating glimpse into the future of jazz keyboards, look no further than Marco Benevento. A melodically inventive musical adventurer who employs pedals, amplifiers, rejiggered electronic toys and sundry effects, Benevento has forged a fascinating repertoire of songs by the likes of Neil Young, Led Zeppelin and Beck, interspersed with wildly original compositions. Admission $25. For information visit http://www.sfjazz.org/ or call 866-920-5299.

Oct. 31, 2009 - Very Postmortem: Mummies and Medicine - Legion of Honor, Lincoln Park, 34th Avenue and Clement StreetArchaeology meets technology in Very Postmortem: Mummies and Medicine opening on Halloween at the Legion of Honor. This ongoing exhibition welcomes back to the Fine Arts Museums the mummy of Irethorrou, a priest from an important family who lived in Akhmin,Egypt around 500 BC, died at a young age and was buried more than 2,500 years ago. The mummy had been on loan to the Haggin Museum in Stockton, Calif. for the last 65 years. Using state of the art technology, the exhibition reveals Irethorrou’s secrets through three-dimensional computed tomography (CT) scans. The exhibition will include computer-generated models of the skulls of Irethorrou and of a close relative Ankh-Wennefer, as well as other “cult of the dead” antiquities that relate to the ancient Egyptian beliefs of death and the afterlife. Irethorrou is one of four human mummies and one crocodile mummy in the Fine Arts Museums’ permanent collection. These and other antiquities were among the museum’s earliest gifts, having been given to the collection by founders M.H. de Young, Adolph Spreckels and other donors. For information visit http://www.famsf.org/ or call 415-750-3600.

Oct. 31, 2009 - Halloween Celebration - Napa River Inn and Silo’s Jazz Club, 530 Main St., Napa8-11 p.m.; doors open at 7 p.m.Celebrate Halloween with live music dancing to the Julianne Band and enjoy drink specials and appetizers. A costume contest will be held during the evening with prizes for the scariest, funniest and most original costumes. Check out the rumors that the inn is haunted; overnight hotel package is available. Cover charge $15. Advanced ticket purchases can be made by visiting http://www.napariverinn.com/ or by calling SILO’s Jazz Club at 707-251-5833.

Nov. 1, 2009 - Dia de los Muertos Family Concert - Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave.2 p.m. The San Francisco Symphony (SFS) marks the Day of the Dead with a concert that celebrates Latino culture. Conducted by Alondra de la Parra, the program includes music by Gabriela Lena Frank and Saint-Saens. SFS has partnered with the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts to create artwork, which will be displayed in the lobby as part of a community children’s altar. For ticket information visit http://www.sfsymphony.org/ or call 415-864-6000.

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

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

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

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

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

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San Francisco Ghost Hunt at The Queen Anne Hotel1590 Sutter St.7 p.m. nightly (except Tuesdays)Stories of a friendly ghost at The Queen Anne Hotel come from its origin as Miss Mary Lake’s Finishing School For Girls. The former head of the school, Miss Mary Lake, disappeared shortly after the school closed. Some locals believe that she never left her role as caretaker and still looks after people at the hotel today, specifically overnight guests in Room 410 where she used to live. Ghost hunters are encouraged to dress warmly. $20, $10 for ages 15 and younger; not recommended for ages eight and under. Tours meet in the lobby of The Queen Anne. For details call 415-922-5590 or visit http://www.sfghosthunt.com/.

San Francisco Vampire Tour - Nob Hill - Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m.Mina Harker a.k.a. Kitty Nasarow leads a two-hour San Francisco Vampire Tour departing from the corner of California and Taylor streets every Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. Join in the “spirit” and come in costume for stops at Grace Cathedral, Huntington Park, the Pacific-Union Club, Fairmont and Mark Hopkins hotels. $20 per mortal; $15 ages students or 60 and over. For information, call 650-279-1840 or 866-4-BITTEN (424-8836) or visit http://www.sfvampiretour.com/.

SF Chinatown Ghost Tours - Tours meet at Kan’s Restaurant, 708 Grant Ave.7:30 p.m. (by reservation only) Fridays and SaturdaysTours for people who love mystery, but aren’t afraid of the dark; 90-minute walking tours visit the haunts of the oldest Chinatown in the United States and prowl historic byways and alleys to reveal more about Chinese myths and mystery. $24 adults, $16 for ages 17 and under. To make reservations and for information, call 415-793-1183 or 877-887-3373 or visit http://www.sfchinatownghosttours.com/.

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

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

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

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

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

. . . .

Want more?

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

dutifully put together at

SF Station's Annual Halloween Guide

. . . .

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

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

This event is canceled!


SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14


Marc Huestis Presents


GOLDEN: A GALA TRIBUTE TO RUE MCCLANAHAN


with Rue McClanahan Live In Person ant the Castro Theatre.

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

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

GOLDEN: A GALA TRIBUTE TO RUE McCLANAHAN

with Rue McClanahan Live in-person!

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

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

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


.

Fleet Week San Francisco 2009 - best spots and places to see the air show

Update from Sunday, Oct 11 3:50 PM via Twitter:

U.S. Navy Blue Angels are in top form - great show - searing, shattering fly-bys over San Francisco - GO NAVY!

Update from Sunday, Oct 11 3:56 PM via Twitter:

Thanks U.S. Coast Guard! San Francisco's Coasties are everywhere today - huge presence - saving lives and guarding the coast since 1790

Update from Sunday, Oct 11 4:01 PM via Twitter:

Thanks for coming, Canadian Forces - your MCDV's rock - love those Bofors - Go Canucks!

Update from Sunday, Oct 11 4:08 PM via Twitter:

USS Green Bay - U.S. Marine Corps - you guys are awesome! - thanks for coming to SFO - and WOW - what a great ship!

- - - - - -

WELCOME to all active duty military personnel and their families, to all veterans - WWII, Korean War, Vietnam War, Gulf War, Afghanistan War, Iraq War - welcome to you all! This is your week - October 8 through 13, 2009!

The U.S. Navy Blue Angels, a Canadian Navy warship (HCMS Edmonton), the USS Green Bay (LPD-20), the USCGC Boutwell and the world's last fully seaworthy WWII liberty ship, the SS Jeremiah O'Brien - all coming to San Francisco Bay for Fleet Week 2009

Here are the ships that will come in to San Francisco Bay under the Golden Gate Bridge for the Fleet Week parade of ships on Saturday:

USS GREEN BAY (LPD-20) is a San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock. Green Bay is able to deliver a fully-equipped battalion of 800 Marines directly ashore. Green Bay has a crew of 250. The ship carries four CH-46 Sea Knight helicopters, 3 air cushion hovercraft for transporting Marines, 14 armored Marine expeditionary fighting vehicles, 2 rolling airframe missile launchers, and 2 30-mm close-in guns. Green Bay is powered by four diesel engines producing 40,000 HP through two shafts. Green Bay is 684 feet long and 105 feet wide.

Note: Green Bay is also designed and equipped to provide humanitarian aid in times of disaster. Because of the recent earthquakes in the South Pacific it is always possible that Green Bay may be deployed without notice, possibly even at the last moment. If that happens Green Bay will not be participating in Fleet Week 2009.

To learn more about USS Green Bay, see this cutaway drawing of Green Bay and visit the ship's official U.S. Navy website.

USCGC BOUTWELL (WHEC 719) is one of 12 of the U.S. Coast Guard's high endurance cutters and is homeported on Coast Guard Island, Alameda, California, right here in San Francisco Bay. On deployment since January, the ship and its crew have trained with numerous maritime, naval and coast guard forces; conducted counter-piracy and maritime security patrols off the Horn of Africa (where pirates run wild) and in the Arabian Sea; and participated in the multinational exercise "AMAN '09", hosted by the Pakistani Navy.

Boutwell is powered by gas turbine engines with a top speed of 54km/h (29 knots). Boutwell is 378 feet in length and has a crew of 167. Weapon systems include the Octobreda 76mm naval gun and the Phalanx CIWS missile system.

Read about Boutwell's recent trip to Tubruq, Libya

HMCS EDMONTON (MM 703) is a Marine Coast Defense Vessel (MCDV) of the Canadian Navy. Edmonton is 182 feet in length, is propelled by twin Jeumont DC electric motors and four 600VAC Wartsilla diesel alternators. Edmonton is equipped with one Bofors 40mm cannon and and two M2 .50-cal machine guns.

Visit Edmonton's website or the Canadian Navy.

SS JEREMIAH O'BRIEN is the sole surviving fully seaworthy Liberty Ship of World War II. O'Brien is a moving national historical monument, museum and a genuine hero of American history. Launched in 1943, O'Brien's boilers are "lit off," and the 2500-horsepower, triple-expansion reciprocating steam main engine is ready to power the liberty ship out to sea to meet our visiting warships and, along with them, parade under the Golden Gate into San Francisco Bay. O'Brien's homeport is Pier 45 near Fisherman's Wharf.

Take a look at SS Jeremiah O'Brien's website for interesting information about this remarkable ship.

THE UNITED STATES NAVY BLUE ANGELS will perform at 3 PM Friday, Saturday and again on Sunday. At 3 PM sharp Fat Albert Airlines, the Blue Angels' nickname for their Lockheed-Martin C-130T Hercules, will fly in over the City and introduce the 2009 Blue Angels Show. Then there is brief silence - maybe 2 or 3 minutes.

After a heavy, silent pause, from the four compass points come the United States Navy Blue Angels screaming in over San Francisco Bay in fighter aircraft capable of near Mach-2 speeds. It's the grandest entrance you will ever witness.

The Blue Angels fly Boeing/Northrup F/A 18 Hornets with two General Electric F404-GE-400 low-bypass, turbofan engines; each in the 16K-pound thrust class. They are equipped with Hughes APG-65 radar with long-range detection in both head-on and tail-on aspects. The Hornets are 56 feet in length with a 40-foot wingspan.

The Blue Angels Air Show will begin at 3 PM and end about an hour later. It's the most stunning demonstration of lightning-fast military air precision you will ever see. Try not to miss it!

Learn more about the U.S. Navy Blue Angels here.

BEST SPOTS AND PLACES TO WATCH THE SHOW:

Most of the fliers in the Air Show perform more or less over Aquatic Park by the Hyde Street Pier. The Blue Angels, however, are seen and heard everywhere from the Hyde Street Pier to Marina Green, Crissy Field and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Pier 39 is advertising good views of the Air Show, but Pier 39 is really too far East of the action to be of much real value. Tourists who don't get the word will end up at Pier 39, as they usually do, but since you are reading this post, you already know better! In fairness to Pier 39, they are offering a lot of associated activities and you may find some of them interesting. Check them out.

The Air Show will include Team Oracle, Julie Clark, Airshows California USAF T-33, Tim Weber, Patriots Jet Team, Lucas Oil Pitts, and Melissa Pemberton. Here is a complete list of all 2009 Fleet Week Air Show performers.

AND ... we have a real Zeppelin flying regularly over San Francisco Bay and you can come aboard and tour the bay by air. Learn more from Airship Ventures. (note: there will be airship tours after the air show, but not during the performances)

The tour boat companies also offer tours on the Bay to watch the show and it's always nice to be out on the water. Check out Fisherman'sWharf.org for more info. They offer an excellent list of tour operators (who are association members) that may interest you. Some of the tour boat businesses are offering special Fleet Week packages.

The San Francisco National Maritime Park at the Hyde Street Pier is offering viewing spots and entertainment aboard the 19th century sailing ship Balclutha.

This last offering from the SS Jeremiah O'Brien is the best of the paid viewing options. The O'Brien is the last fully seaworthy WWII Liberty Ship and she is a floating National Historical Memorial. Unfortunately, the SS Jeremiah O'Brien usually sells out fast - but there is always next year, right?

A variety of family-oriented special events will be staged along the waterfront. The Marina Green will have an entertainment area featuring a number of military-related exhibits. Aquatic Park is the best viewing for the Air Show, but it is a little distant from Marina Green where the exhibits are located. The Blue Angels can easily be seen from any of these places.

In every case, use public transit. We will have more than 800,000 people in our City for Fleet Week. When the air show ends, everybody wants to leave at the same time. That creates the world's greatest traffic jam on some of the world's crookedest, curviest and hilliest streets. Do yourself a big favor: DON'T DRIVE!

>>> Scroll down to the end of this post complete for public transit info and links.<<<

MORE DETAILS ABOUT FLEET WEEK will be found at the Official 2009 Fleet Week website

You may also be interested in these recent posts:

Coast Guard Station Bodega Bay - Surfs Up!

Bret "Pops" Batchelder makes 1,000th arrested carrier landing! - (great story - read this one!)

Happy Birthday to the Coast Guard from San Francisco

USS Nimitz Strike Group gets underway - leaves San Diego - headed to Western Pacific

USCGC Bertholf catches cocaine smugglers at sea - homeported here in San Francisco Bay

USCGC Boutwell comes home to Alameda (in San Francisco Bay) after fighting pirates overseas

USS Laffey - the ship that would not die - (one of the greatest stories in U.S. naval history)

US Navy Submarine Service Lost Boat Memorial - USS Pampanito

USS Pampanito (SS 383) WWII fleet submarine on display at Fisherman's Wharf

Also in San Francisco now . . .

Rogers and Hammerstein's SOUTH PACIFIC

And while you're in San Francisco, think about seeing "South Pacific", the legendary musical by Rogers and Hammerstein about Navy and Marine Corps life in the Solomon Islands during World War II. You will be able to see the original Broadway cast (and they are Tony Award winners!) perform at San Francisco's Golden Gate Theatre. I saw South Pacific and I can absolutely assure you this performance is nothing short of flawless and spectacular. Do yourself a favor and see South Pacific. Tickets are as low as $40 and absolutely worth twice the price. Get more information here

California Academy of Sciences at Golden Gate Park

If you are not familiar with the Academy, then you will likely be interested to know that you can see: a dinosaur skeleton, a blue whale skeleton, a 4-story tropical rainforest ecosystem, the world's most advanced state-of-the-art planetarium featuring a show narrated by Whoopi Goldberg, walk beneath and through tubes in the massive Steinhart Aquarium - and so much more - read about it here.

Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs

More than 3,000 years after his reign, and 30 years after the original exhibition opened in San Francisco, Tutankhamun, ancient Egypt’s celebrated “boy king,” returns to the de Young Museum. This year the de Young presents Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs, a glorious exhibition of over 130 outstanding works from the tomb of Tutankhamun, as well as those of his royal predecessors, his family, and court officials, is in San Francisco. See this remarkable exhibition at the deYoung Museum at Golden Gate Park. Learn more here.

Other Remarkable Things to See at Golden Gate Park . . .

Japanese Tea Garden
A complex of paths, ponds and a teahouse features native Japanese and Chinese plants. Also hidden throughout its five acres are beautiful sculptures and bridges. Makato Hagiwara, a Japanese master classical gardener with a deep appreciation for zen balance, took over the garden in 1895 and his family continued to develop and manage the garden until 1942. That was the year Japanese Americans were rounded-up and slammed into race-based "relocation camps". . . .
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Makato Hagiwara also has a famous invention to his credit. He invented the fortune cookie at the teahouse inside the Japanese Tea Garden as a treat to serve guests along with green tea. I guess this means the fortune cookie is more properly Japanese and not Chinese. You can enjoy some of Mr. Hagiwara's original cookies and sip traditionally-brewed delightfully hot Japanese green tea in the teahouse to this day.
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The Japanese Tea Garden is located just east of Stow Lake, between JFK and Martin Luther King Jr. drives. It is next door to the de Young Museum. For Tea Garden admission info, call (415) 752-4227. Learn more about the Japanese Tea Garden.
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Conservatory of Flowers
Since 1879, locals and visitors have marveled at San Francisco's Conservatory of Flowers, the oldest glass-and-wood Victorian greenhouse in the Western Hemisphere and home to more than 10,000 plants from around the globe. It was badly damaged by a 1995 storm and closed to the public for eight years, and is finally open again after a $25 million restoration.
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The plant life is spectacular. Located beneath the conservatory dome, the warmest and most humid section of the building, is the conservatory's prized century-old imperial philodendron. The east wing houses the Highland Tropics collection and aquatic plants display (including real lily pads that can hold the weight of a small child), while the west side is dedicated to seasonal flowering plants and educational exhibits (the first, all about plant pollination, features 800 live butterflies that will flit about among the visitors.) Signs are kept to a minimum so visitors can simply soak up the beauty.
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The Conservatory of Flowers is located at the eastern end of the park, just off Conservatory Drive.Learn more about the San Francisco Conservatory of Flowers.
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San Francisco Botanical Garden at Strybing Arboretum
Begun in 1937 with WPA funds ( the WPA was part of President Roosevelt's Great Depression stimilus package) and charitable donations, this 70-acre horticultural extravaganza entices the senses with more than 6,000 plant species. The garden of fragrance -- with signs in Braille -- brings flowers alive with scent alone. The main entrance is on Ninth Avenue at Lincoln Way. Also accessible from the Japanese Tea Garden through the Friend's Gate. Free guided walks are given daily at 1:30 pm.
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The Gardens are open weekdays, 8 am-4:30 pm and weekends and holidays, 10 am-5 pm. Free. Learn about the San Francisco Botanical Garden at Strybing Arboretum.
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de Young Museum
One of the great fine arts museums in the world. Founded in 1895, the de Young Museum has been an integral part of the cultural fabric of the City and a cherished destination for millions of residents and visitors to the region for over 100 years.
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The de Young houses one of the finest collections of American paintings in the United States. Strengthened by the acquisition of the Rockefeller Collection of American Art, the de Young's treasures include more than 1000 paintings that represent a spectrum of American art from colonial times through the twentieth century. Learn about the de Young Museum.
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National AIDS Memorial Grove
The National AIDS Memorial Grove, located just behind the California Academy of Sciences in a particularly lush area of the Park, is a dedicated space in the national landscape where millions of Americans touched directly or indirectly by AIDS can gather to heal, hope, and remember. For all the promising prospects on the horizon, AIDS continues to invade our lives, violate our past, and rob us of our comfortable assumptions about the future. The sacred ground of this living memorial honors all who have confronted this tragic pandemic both those who have died and those who have shared their struggle, kept the vigils, and supported each other during the final hours.
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Learn more about the National AIDS Memorial Grove
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Lunch at the Academy
If you visit the California Academy of Sciences you will have two surprisingly good choices for lunch. The Academy Cafe offers a delightful menu in a comfortable and relaxing setting. The outdoor patio dining is particularly popular (except on foggy days). The Academy also offers a first-class dining experience operated by one of San Francisco's most celebrated chefs, Charles Phan. It is the Moss Room.
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And - by the way - The California Academy of Sciences is the most spectacular destination in San Francisco. It is absolutely stunning. It cannot be described here - just not enough space - but I posted a fairly concise report here. The California Academy of Sciences is, I believe, the main attraction in Golden Gate Park, so be sure you at least take a quick look at all it has to offer. You may be surprised.
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Dining at the Academy: Learn more and see menus here.

Fresh deli sandwiches at very reasonable prices
For great deli sandwiches (fresh and made by someone who really cares) at very reasonable prices - at 19th and Irving - just a block from Golden Gate Park's Sunset side - and they have an extensive liquor, wine and imported beer selection too - read this review: Jerry's Handy Deli: San Francisco best deli sandwich lunch to go and sidewalk cafe near Golden Gate Park

Transportation - Getting around town in San Francisco . . .

First of all, keep in mind we are expecting in excess of 800,000 visitors to the City for Fleet Week. All public services will be strained, so be patient and be smart!

511.org offers automated voice transit information over the phone. However, their voice-recognition software sucks and it is more frustration than information.

The City of San Francisco offers a free information service with a REAL LIVE PERSON you can talk to. Keep in mind that person will probably try to steer you toward 511 for transit info, but be firm and tell them you want the info from them. They are instructed to comply and not push. Reach this free service by calling 311 from any phone inside San Francisco. If you have an out-of-area cellphone call: (415) 701-2311. You can reach them online or you can talk to them direct on Twitter by following these instructions.

You can also go direct to the SFMTA (San Francisco "Muni" - the transit system) website.

Getting to the Air Show (Aquatic Park, Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 39):

Going to Aquatic Park, Hyde Street Pier, Fisherman's Wharf or Pier 39: Take the F-line (historic trolly streetcars) from anywhere along Market Street, the Ferry Building or the Embarcadero. Note: F-Line fares will be waived this weekend. You can ride the F-Line streetcars FREE!

Getting to Golden Gate Park:

In a nutshell, if you're coming from downtown (where most of the municipal-owned parking lots are located) you need to take the 5-Fulton Muni bus. It is an electric trolley bus and it runs the full length of the Richmond (north) side of Golden Gate Park along Fulton Avenue. Here's a link to the SFMTA info for the 5-Fulton line.

Where to Park your Car:

If you plan to drive, you are making a BIG MISTAKE, so cut your losses and plan to park your car in a city-owned public parking garage and take transit. Here is a complete list of the city-owned garages. They are the least expensive, best operated and most safe. Here they are: City Owned Garages and Parking Rates.

Have cash ready for transit - no change and no plastic!

By the way, the fare for all Muni lines, including the 5-Fulton and the F-line, is $2 per adult. No change is made. Bring exact cash. Get more fare info here. (one exception to the rule: Cable Cars are $5 per rider between ages 5 and 65) Note: The F-line streetcars will be FREE this weekend.

Special Fleet Week Transit Guide for Visitors:

SFMTA (Muni) put together a special web page offering tips, advice and info for visiotrs to San francisco during this weekend's Fleet Week events.

San Francisco's famous Cable Cars:

The Powell-Hyde Cable Car line goes from the corner of Powell and Market direct to the Hyde Street Pier by Aquatic Park and Fisherman's Wharf. Here is a special SF Cable Car info site. Check it out. They're crowded, cost $5 to ride, but are so very much worth it!

Finally . . . here's a map showing both the F-Line and Cable Car lines from downtown out to the Aquatic Park - Fisherman's Wharf area. After you open the map, click on it again to enlarge it. This is a great map, so check it out. Remember, the F-Lline streecars are FREE this weekend.

. . .

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

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

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

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

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

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N-Judah and 29-Sunset

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

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

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

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

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

What a pastrami sandwich that was!

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

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

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

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

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

So, here are three suggestions for you:

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

... and a special word for San Franciscans:

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

Go out and say hello to Jerry!

Handy Deli (thehandydeli.com)
1815 Irving Street, San Francisco (map)
Telephone: 415-681-3323

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Hardly Strictly Bluegrass - San Francisco - Oct 2,3,4, 2009

What: Hardly Strictly Bluegrass - FREE concert in the Park

Where: Speedway Meadow, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco

When: Friday, Saturday, Sunday - October 2, 3 and 4 - 2009

How Much: Nada, zippo, zilch, nothing - it's all free

Who: Oh, boy. It's a big, big list. Here it is:

Steve Earle & the Bluegrass Dukes, Austin Lounge Lizards, Gillian Welch, Boz Scaggs and the Blue Velvet Band, Dr. Dog, The Duhks, Nick Lowe, Little Feat,Rodney Crowell, Marty Stuart, Dry Branch Fire Squad, Billy Bragg, Mike Farris & the Roseland Rhythm Revue, Robert Earl Keen, Guy Clark & Verlon Thompson, Doc Watson & David Holt, Eliza Gilkyson, The Brothers Comatose, Earl Scruggs, Marianne Faithfull, ODC/Dance, Kevin Welch, Kieran Kane & Fats Kaplin, Marley's Ghost w/ special guest Cowboy Jack Clement, Emmylou Harris, Hazel Dickens, Elvis Perkins in Dearland, Hayes Carll, Roger Knox presents the Aboriginal Country & Western Songbook,Elizabeth Cook, Great American Taxi, Dave Alvin & the Guilty Women, Booker T. & the DBTs, Kimmie Rhodes, Old Crow Medicine Show, Red Wine,World Party, Buddy Miller, Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder, Amadou & Mariam, Abalone Dots, The Knitters, Natalie MacMaster, Todd Snider,Barefoot Nellies, Mavis Staples, Songwriter Circle w/ Tom Morello, Dar Williams, Steve Earle & Allison Moorer, The Chieftains, Darrell Scott Band,Laurie Lewis, John Prine, Neko Case, Pamela Rose, Fireants, Allen Toussaint,The Tim O'Brien Band, Billy Joe Shaver, Moonalice, Okkervil River, MC Hammer, Rosie Flores with Jon Langford and the Pine Valley Cosmonauts,Old 97's, Reckless Kelly, Aimee Mann, Steve Martin with the Steep Canyon Rangers, Jorma Kaukonen, The Claire Lynch Band, The Del McCoury Band,Richie Havens, Ralph Stanley & the Clinch Mountain Boys, The Wronglers,Dr. Magpie, The Flatlanders featuring: Joe Ely, Jimmie Dale Gilmore & Butch Hancock, Marshall Crenshaw, Robyn Hitchcock, Malo, Jessica Lea Mayfield and recently announced: Lyle Lovett and his Large Band.

Important Note: Parking near Speedway Meadow at Golden Gate Park is EXTREMELY LIMITED. After all, Speedway Meadow is not a concert site surrounded by a massive parking lot. It is a green grass meadow inside an urban park for goodness sake. There is no parking. Like it or not - it's time for public transit.

Speedway Meadow is located in the middle of Golden Gate Park. Take a look at this map.

It's just west (the ocean side) of 19th Ave and is not too far from Stowe Lake and the lake is just a little behind the deYoung Museum and the Japanese Tea Garden - and they are across the Music Concourse from the California Academy of Sciences. You can read about some of these attractions below in this post - just scroll down.

Anyway - back to Transit: here's everything you need to know about public transit to Golden Gate Park:

511.org offers automated voice transit information over the phone. However, their voice-recognition software sucks and it is more frustration than information.

The City of San Francisco offers a free information service with a REAL LIVE PERSON you can talk to. Keep in mind that person will probably try to steer you toward 511 for transit info, but be firm and tell them you want the info from them. They are instructed to comply and not push. Reach this free service by calling 311 from any phone inside San Francisco. If you have an out-of-area cellphone call: (415) 701-2311. You can reach them online or you can talk to them direct on Twitter by following these instructions.

You can also go direct to the SFMTA (San Francisco "Muni" - the transit system) website.

In a nutshell, if you're coming from downtown (where most of the municipal-owned parking lots are located) you need to take the 5-Fulton Muni bus. It is an electric trolley bus and it runs the full length of the Richmond (north) side of Golden Gate Park along Fulton Avenue. It's as close as you'll get by public transit. You want to go to 19th Ave. Here's a link to the SFMTA info for the 5-Fulton line.

By the way, the fare for all Muni lines, including the 5-Fulton, is $2 per adult. No change is made. Bring exact cash. Get more fare info here.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness scheduled an event at Speedway Meadows for another time and date. Their staff did a great job of preparing driving directions to Speedway Meadow - but remember - I do not advise you follow these directions, for if you do, you will likely spend a lot of time cruising around looking for a place to park. Still, if you're an A-type personality and refuse to take no for an answer - then go ahead Bad Daddy - here are your directions.

Resources:
Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs - deYoung Museum (in the Park)
California Academy of Sciences at Golden Gate Park
Pot clubs (medical marijuana dispensaries) in San Francisco (must have a State ID card)
Great deli sandwiches (beer & booze too) close to GG Park (a block from the Park at 19th Ave)
Official Visitor's site (SF Convention & Visitor Bureau)
SF's 311 Info Service (just call 311 from within the City - ask question, get answer - free)
Google map of Golden Gate Park
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival

Other Remarkable Things to See at Golden Gate Park

Japanese Tea Garden

A complex of paths, ponds and a teahouse features native Japanese and Chinese plants. Also hidden throughout its five acres are beautiful sculptures and bridges. Makato Hagiwara, a Japanese master classical gardener with a deep appreciation for zen balance, took over the garden in 1895 and his family continued to develop and manage the garden until 1942. That was the year Japanese Americans were rounded-up and slammed into race-based "relocation camps".

.

Makato Hagiwara also has a famous invention to his credit. He invented the fortune cookie at the teahouse inside the Japanese Tea Garden as a treat to serve guests along with green tea. I guess this means the fortune cookie is more properly Japanese and not Chinese. You can enjoy some of Mr. Hagiwara's original cookies and sip traditionally-brewed delightfully hot Japanese green tea in the teahouse to this day.

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The Japanese Tea Garden is located just east of Stow Lake, between JFK and Martin Luther King Jr. drives. It is next door to the de Young Museum. For Tea Garden admission info, call (415) 752-4227. Learn more about the Japanese Tea Garden.

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Conservatory of Flowers

Since 1879, locals and visitors have marveled at San Francisco's Conservatory of Flowers, the oldest glass-and-wood Victorian greenhouse in the Western Hemisphere and home to more than 10,000 plants from around the globe. It was badly damaged by a 1995 storm and closed to the public for eight years, and is finally open again after a $25 million restoration.

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The plant life is spectacular. Located beneath the conservatory dome, the warmest and most humid section of the building, is the conservatory's prized century-old imperial philodendron. The east wing houses the Highland Tropics collection and aquatic plants display (including real lily pads that can hold the weight of a small child), while the west side is dedicated to seasonal flowering plants and educational exhibits (the first, all about plant pollination, features 800 live butterflies that will flit about among the visitors.) Signs are kept to a minimum so visitors can simply soak up the beauty.

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The Conservatory of Flowers is located at the eastern end of the park, just off Conservatory Drive.
Learn more about the San Francisco Conservatory of Flowers.

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San Francisco Botanical Garden at Strybing Arboretum

Begun in 1937 with WPA funds ( the WPA was part of President Roosevelt's Great Depression stimilus package) and charitable donations, this 70-acre horticultural extravaganza entices the senses with more than 6,000 plant species. The garden of fragrance -- with signs in Braille -- brings flowers alive with scent alone. The main entrance is on Ninth Avenue at Lincoln Way. Also accessible from the Japanese Tea Garden through the Friend's Gate. Free guided walks are given daily at 1:30 pm.

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The Gardens are open weekdays, 8 am-4:30 pm and weekends and holidays, 10 am-5 pm. Free. Learn about the San Francisco Botanical Garden at Strybing Arboretum.

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de Young Museum

One of the great fine arts museums in the world. Founded in 1895, the de Young Museum has been an integral part of the cultural fabric of the City and a cherished destination for millions of residents and visitors to the region for over 100 years.

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The de Young houses one of the finest collections of American paintings in the United States. Strengthened by the acquisition of the Rockefeller Collection of American Art, the de Young's treasures include more than 1000 paintings that represent a spectrum of American art from colonial times through the twentieth century. Learn about the de Young Museum.

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Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs

More than 3,000 years after his reign, and 30 years after the original exhibition opened in San Francisco, Tutankhamun, ancient Egypt’s celebrated “boy king,” returns to the de Young Museum. The de Young presents Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs, a glorious exhibition of over 130 outstanding works from the tomb of Tutankhamun, as well as those of his royal predecessors, his family, and court officials. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to be face-up close to the treasures of Ancient Egypt. You really, really don't want to miss this.

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At the de Young now through March 28, 2010. Learn more about the Tutankhamun exhibition.

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National AIDS Memorial Grove

The National AIDS Memorial Grove, located just behind the California Academy of Sciences in a particularly lush area of the Park, is a dedicated space in the national landscape where millions of Americans touched directly or indirectly by AIDS can gather to heal, hope, and remember. For all the promising prospects on the horizon, AIDS continues to invade our lives, violate our past, and rob us of our comfortable assumptions about the future. The sacred ground of this living memorial honors all who have confronted this tragic pandemic both those who have died and those who have shared their struggle, kept the vigils, and supported each other during the final hours.

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Learn more about the National AIDS Memorial Grove

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Lunch at the Academy

If you visit the California Academy of Sciences you will have two surprisingly good choices for lunch. The Academy Cafe offers a delightful menu in a comfortable and relaxing setting. The outdoor patio dining is particularly popular (except on foggy days). The Academy also offers a first-class dining experience operated by one of San Francisco's most celebrated chefs, Charles Phan. It is the Moss Room.

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And - by the way - The California Academy of Sciences is the most spectacular destination in San Francisco. It is absolutely stunning. It cannot be described here - just not enough space - but I posted a fairly concise report here. The California Academy of Sciences is, I believe, the main attraction in Golden Gate Park, so be sure you at least take a quick look at all it has to offer. You may be surprised.

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Dining at the Academy: Learn more and see menus here.

Fresh deli sandwiches at very reasonable prices:

For great deli sandwiches (fresh and made by someone who really cares) at very reasonable prices - at 19th and Irving - just a block from Golden Gate Park's Sunset side - and they have an extensive liquor, wine and imported beer selection too - read this review: Jerry's Handy Deli: San Francisco best deli sandwich lunch to go and sidewalk cafe near Golden Gate Park

Thanks for coming to San Francisco.

Y'all come back, hear?

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Willie Brown thinks Tom Ammiano's pot measure will pass - says chances are high - Tax Cannabis 2010

"I don't see any organized opposition to legal pot on the horizon.

So if the pot growers put their money in the right places, they win in 2010."

- former California Assembly Speaker and San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown, September 2009

(From Willie's World by Willie L. Brown 27-Sep-09) That proposed ballot initiative to legalize marijuana in California for people 21 and older - and be told, there is just too much money to be made both by the people who grow marijuana and the cities and counties that would be able to tax it.

Unlike the 1970s, when Mayor George Moscone first moved to decriminalizlet local government tax the sales - has a good chance of passing.

People are no longer outraged by the idea of legalization, and truth e pot, marijuana is no longer about hippies. Thanks to medical marijuana, pot has moved from the alleyways to Main Street, with pot clubs springing up all over the state.

And let's be honest for a moment. How many of the people going into those clubs do you think are really sick? Anyone who has observed those operations knows that much of the pot is being used recreationally anyway, so we might as well have a discussion about whether to bring it out in the open.

You might think the Legislature would pick up on this, and indeed Assemblyman Tom Ammiano, D-San Francisco, has made a proposal to legalize and tax pot. But although legalizing marijuana fits both Republicans' libertarian instincts and Democrats' progressivism, they won't touch it with a 10-foot-long pack of rolling papers.

For all our weak-kneed politicians, however, I don't see any organized opposition to legal pot on the horizon. So if the pot growers put their money in the right places, they win in 2010.

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Willie Brown is currently practicing law in San Francisco and directs the Willie L. Brown Leadership Center at San Francisco State University. He also writes Willie's World for the San Francisco Chronicle. He is also a frequent political commentator on MSNBC. Read more about Willie Brown on Wikipedia.

For more information on Tax Cannabis 2010 go to:

- Tax Cannabis 2010

- California Assemblymember Tom Ammiano (D-San Francisco)

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Best of San Francisco Street Food Carts - benefit for St. Anthony Foundation - Sun, Sep 27th

- Sunday September 27th

- 12 noon to 3 pm

- For location check Soul Cocina on Twitter (@soulcocina) on Sunday morning.

A benefit for St Anthony Foundation

Participating food carts:

Bacon Potato Chips
Toasty Melts
The Gumbo Man
Adobo Hobo
Pizza Hacker
Bike Basket Pies
Wholesome Bakery
Gobba Gobba Hey
The Sweet Cart
Lumpia Cart
Urban Nectar
Magic Curry Cart
Brazilian Bites
& Soul Cocina

Want to know more? Visit soulcocina.com

Click on the poster to enlarge in a separate tab or window.

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