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Happy Holidays! December 2011 - Final Newsletter and Events
In this edition:
TOP OF THE NEWS
FAREWELL MESSAGE FROM SUPERVISOR MIRKARIMI
Dear Friends,
This will be my last newsletter as District 5 Supervisor. It's hard to summon seven years of memories in this brief note, so come celebrate with us at our last holiday City Hall office party on Friday, December 16, 5:00 to 7:30 PM.
I want to take this opportunity to express my immense appreciation to my past and present office staff who blazed the journey with me, remaining focused on the job at hand while performing simultaneous constituent and legislative acts on a daily basis. The greater the challenge, the better they did. A conventional work day was rare. Often, work followed staff home - I'm grateful to the family and friends who supported their efforts while they gave it their all.
Thank you also to the fleet of amazing volunteers and interns who did everything from mundane clerical tasks, to delving into complicated or controversial projects. There is nothing more rewarding than hearing from former interns who parlayed their positive experience with us into a vocation that truly inspires them.
Most importantly, I want to thank the people of San Francisco and District 5. Our District is one of the most diverse, nonlinear demarcated districts in the city. The range of challenges was often nuanced depending on the specific neighborhood, but they all embodied the fusion of big urban demands with village interests. And I loved that because it was the centrifugal force of neighborhood activism that caused us to reconcile important competing considerations, no matter the issue big or small. Thank you to the volunteer-driven dedicated network of neighborhood groups and its leaders for their commitment to bettering one of the most majestic cities in the world.
I will be sworn in as San Francisco's next Sheriff on January 8th.
Happy Holidays.
Yours truly,
Ross Mirkarimi
COME TO SUPERVISOR MIRKARIMI'S HOLIDAY PARTY!
Fans of Supervisor Mirakrimi's notable art parties have a reason to celebrate! After a year's hiatus the Supervisor is hosting a Holiday, Farewell, Thank You Party. Please stop by for Ross's last City Hall party as District 5 Supervisor, and send him on his way to his new position as San Francisco Sheriff. Allow Ross to thank you in person for the pleasure of serving you as Supervisor for seven years and your amazing support.
Drinks and light snacks will be served and music will be by the Beauty Operators former Legislative Aide, Jeremy Pollock and band.
When: Friday, December 16
Time: 5:00 – 7:30 PM
Where: City Hall, room 256
EX-OFFENDER TAX BREAK
In an effort to cut crime and lower the rate at which ex-felons return to prison, Supervisor Mirkarimi introduced legislation providing a $10,000 tax break for business owners who hire ex-offenders and can prove that they have stayed on the job for at least six months.
On December 6, the ordinance was disapproved by the Board of Supervisors in a close 6-5 vote. Helping ex-offenders to obtain employment is challenging and politically unpopular, but, Supervsior Mirkarimi -- who was elected Sheriff on November 8 -- believes it is critical to reduce crime and recidivism.
Recent statistics show that California and San Francisco offenders return to custody at a rate as high as 78 percent and that the City spends $50,000 annually to house a single inmate. While unemployment in San Francisco is approximately nine percent, among former inmates it is as high as 50 percent.
The good news is that research indicates ex-offenders who find work within the first six months of their release are nearly half as likely to go back to prison.
Mirkarimi's legislation came as San Francisco is set to comply with a new state law that transfers 650 additional former state inmates to the City for supervision annually.
Many in local law enforcement supported Mirkarimi's proposal, including the Adult Probation Department, the Public Defender's Office and the Reentry Council.
Chronicle
Associated Press
ABC7 San Francisco
Huffington Post
CHECKOUT BAGS VOTE IN FEBRUARY
Since 2007 major grocery and drug retailers have been prohibited from giving customers plastic bags in San Francisco. While this law has gone a long way to reduce the use of plastic bags in the City, San Francisco still faces significant problems caused by plastic bags. Plastic bags create a large portion of the City's litter, contribute to pollution, and are very difficult to recycle. While paper bags often are thought of as a positive alternative to plastic bags, paper bags are often not recycled, thereby creating unnecessary waste.
 In an attempt to promote the popularity of reusable bags, Supervisor Mirkarimi recently introduced legislation which would eliminate the use of plastic checkout bags from all retail establishments in the City. In addition, the legislation would require retail stores to charge a small--10 cent--fee to customers who wish to receive a paper, compostable, or reusable bag when making a purchase. This small surcharge serves as motivation for customers to bring their own bags to stores when shopping.
The legislation has received support from a wide range of environmental groups, including Baykeeper, Save The Bay, The Sierra Club, and the California Academy of Sciences. The bill has also gained the support of local businesses, including the SF Chamber of Commerce, SF Small Business Commission, and the California Grocer's Association.
After a continuance on December 6, the ordinance is scheduled for a vote by the full Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, February 7.
ABC7 San Francisco
Huffington Post
SF Chronicle
RECYCLE YOUR USED COOKING OIL FOR CONVERSION TO BIOFUEL
 Fats, oils and grease are a huge problem for the San Francisco sewer system. The City spends $3.5 million a year cleaning this gunk out of the sewers. Fortunately, there is not only a solution for diverting it from the sewers, but once it's diverted, it can be recycled and turned into biodiesel and used in diesel combustion engines like cars, trucks and generators. It's Amazing!
Step one: Save your used oil – don't pour it down the drain.
Step two: The city of San Francisco has partnered with local retailers to make it easy for residents to discard their used cooking oil in any amount. You can drop off your oil at Rainbow Grocery, Dogpatch Biofuels, Costco, Whole Foods (Franklin and Soma locations). For more info and a complete list of collection stations, visit SFGreasecycle.org.
RAMP-SF IS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR FREE JOB READINESS TRAINING
This six-week class will build your workplace skills, help you to develop positive attitudes and work habits, and provide you with the kinds of positive teamwork experiences that employers are looking for.
You can get 7 weeks of FREE job readiness training. To qualify you must:
• Be a Resident of San Francisco
• Be 18-24 Years Old
• Have the Ability to Obtain and Present Right-to-Work Documents
• Have the Ability to Communicate in English
• Be Willing to Take a Drug Test (Does Not Affect Eligibility)
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply by attending a RAMP-SF Academy orientation.
For more information contact Amber at 415-928-7417 ext. 307 or awhitman@sfcc.org.
SAN FRANCISCO FIRE DEPARTMENT TOY DRIVE
SFFD City-wide Toy Drive is happening NOW!
Drop off unwrapped toys to any SF Fire Station in the City for the children. The SFFD gives away over 200 toys a day to children throughout the City.
A complete list of Fire Stations in the City can be found by clicking here.
DIVISADERO ART WALK, DECEMBER 8TH
The Divisadero Art Walk will take place once again on December 8th. Come celebrate the artists, stores, and restaurants along the Divisadero corridor.
Take a stroll up Divisadero between Geary and Haight. More than 25 businesses from Geary to Haight open their doors with specials,
art and a chance to mingle with your neighbors!
When: December 8th
Time: 5 PM - 10 PM
More information: divisaderoartwalk.blogspot.com.
82ND ANNUAL REC & PARK HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING
Come join the fun for Rec & Park's annual tree lighting celebration!
When: Thursday, December 8
Time: 5 – 7:30 PM
Where: McLaren Lodge, 501 Stanyan @ Fell
Free event
8TH ANNUAL COMMUNITY PARTNERS & COMMUNITY GROWS; MAKE YOUR OWN WREATHS & CARDS
 Come join community and residents for wreath making & holiday cards.
When: Saturday December 10th
Time: 1-4pm
Where: Hayes Valley South Community Room, @ 403 Rose St @Buchanan
Sponsored by Community Grows. Free event.
BOOKER T. WASHINGTON PROGRAM FAMILIES HOLIDAY CELEBRATION
A community holiday celebration with food, fun, gifts, and raffles for the whole family.
When: Friday, December 16
Where: Booker T. Washington, 800 Presidio
For more information call: Booker T. Washington Community Center, 415-928-6596
TAKE A PICTURE WITH SANTA AND GET A GIFT!
The Western Addition Family Resource Center is holding its 2nd Annual Toy Give Away. Bring your child to get a free gift from Santa. Enjoy hot cocoa and cookies. Gifts are limited, so Children must be present to receive a gift.
When: December 17
Time: 10 AM – 3 PM
Where: Western Addition Family Resource Center, @ 1426 Fillmore Street, # 303
RSVP with Loria Price at 415-202-9770.
COMMUNITY PARTNERS HOLIDAY LUNCHEON AND AFRICAN AMERICAN & CULTURAL COMPLEX HOLIDAY EVENT
A community holiday event and luncheon for families and community. All are welcome!
When: Saturday, December 17
Time: 11 AM – 2 PM
Where: AAACC, 762 Fulton @ Webster
Contact: info@aaacc.org or Richard at cpusf.founded2002@sbcglobal.net
Free event
SAN FRANCISCO KWANZAA 2011
The 6th Annual San Francisco Kwanzaa celebration will feature 7 days of events throughout San Francisco to celebrate the seven principals of Kwanzaa.
 Kujichagulia (self determination) event will be held at City Hall Rotunda, 1.Dr Carlton Goodlet Place, on Tuesday, December 27, @ 12 noon – 1 PM.
All events are free and open to the public. Please visit www.kwanzaasanfrancisco.com for a full schedule.
When: December 26, 2011 through January 1, 2012.
COMPASSIONATE CARE HOLIDAY DINNER AT MAITRI
Wine reception and three-course dinner.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
7 PM – 9:30 PM
401 Duboce Avenue
RSVP by December 8, 2011 to gsun@maitrisf.org
Suggestion minimum donation: $150/guest
MAITRI COMPASSIONATE CARE HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
Treats from Hot Cookie and hot beverages. There will also be live holiday entertainment.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
2 PM – 5 PM
Gifts of toiletries welcome
RSVP by December 15, to gsun@maitrisf.org
Suggested donation: $10/guest
MAKE YOUR HOLIDAY TREE A FRUIT TREE FROM HAYES VALLEY FARM
Visit Hayes Valley Farm to purchase a holiday fruit tree in December; Thursday & Sunday from 12 Noon to 5 PM. Hayes Valley Farm is located on Octavia between Oak & Fell.
Fruit tree: $150
For more information: info@hayesvalleyfarm.com
HVNA NEIGHBORHOOD POTLUCK MEETING
The Hayes Valley Neighborhood Association is holding a special neighborhood potluck meeting at the Hayes Valley Playground. The annual potluck will feature a presentation by Opportunity Impact on their programs in the playground and a review of all the holiday programs and events planned for the area.
When: Thursday, December 8
Time: 7- 9 PM
Where: Hayes Valley Playground. Hayes Street @ Buchanan.
SANTA CLAUS IN THE JAPAN CENTER MALLS!
Ho, Ho, Ho - Santa Claus will soon arrive at the Japan Center Malls. The Japan Center Malls has the perfect place to pose for photos with Santa and share your holiday wish list. So pack up the little ones and head on out to share all the joy of the holidays. This wonderful Santa takes the time to talk individually with each each child. Bring your camera to capture the moment, there will not be a photographer.
When: December 10th, 11th, 17th & 18th, 2011
TIme: Noon to 4 p.m.
Where: 1737 Post Street
San Francisco, CA 94115
LOWER HAIGHT ART WALK
Come and check out work by local artists:
When: Friday, December 9,
Time: 6 – 10 PM
Where: on Haight Street between Webster & Scott
WESTERN ADDITION BEACON TECHNOLOGY LAB
Adult Computer & Internet Classes
The Western Addition Beacon Center invites community partners to their Open House
When: Wednesday, December 7
Time: 5:30 – 6:30 PM
Where: John Muir Elementary, room 412, 4th floor
380 Webster Street
For more information on their Open House or free adult computer classes, contact; John Gibson, 415-749-2714 or jgibson@ymcasf.org
SF CBO SUPPORT PROJECT
SF State's MPA Program & the Institute for Civic Community Engagement introduces: SF CBO Support Project.
The SF CBO Support Project partners with staff of the community-based organizations to support the planning. delivery, communications, and evaluations of mission-serving programs in San Francisco.
To lean more on line and apply visit; sfcbosupportproject.org
The deadline for Spring 2012 offering is Friday, December 16.
GOLDEN GATE PARK SKATEBOARD AREA PILOT PILOT PROGRAM CELEBRATION
Supervisor Mirkarimi, The San Francisco Skateboarding Association and SF Rec and Park will be celebrating the success of the Waller and Stanyan Skate Park pilot program. The closed-off section of Waller and Stanyan is unused most of the year and is an ideal location for the Golden Gate Park skateboard area that the Board of Supervisors approved in 2007. Supervisor Mirkarimi was instrumental in developing this much needed recreation resource for the community.
December 9, 2012
3-4PM
Waller At Stanyan in Golden Gate Park
Pro skateboarder Austyn Gillette was filmed recently using the park. Check it out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eDrskgccDYg
FREE FORECLOSURE WORKSHOP
Know your options when it comes to foreclosures. Whether your financial hardship is temporary (short-term) or more permanent (long-term), whether you want to keep your home or you have decided that you are ready to sell or leave, or if you're not sure what to do, this workshop can help. There are options to help homeowners just like you, who are struggling with their mortgage payments and need assistance.
Workshop provided by local SF HUD Certified Housing Counseling Agencies. Counselors will be on-site to meet with you.
Space is limited for this FREE Workshop so please register today by calling Malika at 415-202-5463 or email malika@homeownershipsf.org.
When: Saturday, December 10, 2011
Time: 10:00 am to 1:00 pm
Where: SF Housing Development Corp. 4439 Third Street, SF
Looking for a Job?
Opportunity Impact
Opportunity impact is looking to hire a few part time Community Leaders to help run our after school activities, most likely for the Elementary School youth we serve. They are looking for someone experienced working with youth, who understand the backgrounds of the children we serve and a candidate with the potential (motivation, commitment) to become a full time member of our team. Go to the website or call to get more information before applying. Cover letter and resume needed. For further information contact Info@OpportunityImpact.org or call (415) 771-7228. See www.OpportunityImpact.org for more information about the organization.
Training a Sustainable Workforce
Sector Academies combine skill development, support services, and job development to prepare and place low-to-high skilled individuals in a range of jobs within targeted industries: construction, green and health care. The Sector Academies are currently recruiting participants for specialized vocational skills training in the following areas:
Health Care: Home Care Provider, Youth Health Care Bridge and Certified Home Health Aide
Green: Energy Efficiency, Solar Thermal Installation, Recycling and Transportation
Interested candidates should attend a Sector Academy Orientation Session, which includes information about the available training programs, career options, minimum qualifications and the enrollment process. Additional information can be found at:
http://www.oewd.org/Workforce_Development-Sector_Academy_Training_Programs.aspx
City Jobs
The City is always hiring for a wide variety of positions. For information on City employment openings click here. This page contains lists of job openings, information on Civil Service examinations, and a variety of other useful information on finding work.
Work for the YMCA
The San Francisco YMCA has a number of job openings across the City. For information go to www.ymcasf.org/who_we_are/employment/job_listings.
Boys and Girls Club of San Francisco
The Boys and Girls Club of San Francisco is hiring for several positions throughout the City. For information, go to www.kidsclub.org.
Free classes in medical assisting, billing, and administration
The Mission Language & Vocational School ( MLVS) offers free classes in medical assisting, billing, and administrative assisting. Learn medical terminology, anatomy & physiology, computer skills, medical office admin, medical coding, insurance billing, lab skills, EKG, and so much more. Spaces limited. Monday – Fridays Visit: www.mlvs.org or contact Dr. Nuez at 415-648-5226 onunez@mlvs.org Or Gladys Soto 415-641-3705 gsoto@mlvs.org.
Check Out the One-Stop Career Center
The new One-Stop Career Link Center is open to the public five days a week providing employment-related services. Call for an appointment or just drop in to talk to one of their friendly staff about their services. Bring your resume and get a 15 minute critique. Get helpful tips on planning your job search, navigating an Internet job search and how to evaluate your job interviews. Meet the staff and get the answers to your burning questions about jobs in demand, how to answer the tough interview questions and how to dress for success.
Hours of Operation at 1449 Webster (Safeway Plaza) are: Monday-Thursday from 9 to 5, Fridays 9 to 12 for job searches and 12 to 5 for workshops and classes. Job seekers are encouraged to come access the services. For more information, please call (415) 655-2620.
Do You Know of Other Job Openings?
Please let us know and we'll include them in next month's newsletter. Email us at mirkarimistaff@sfgov.org or call the office at 554-7630.
Click Here for Our Online Calendar of Events
On the google calendar, one-time events are displayed in green while recurring events are displayed in orange. Click on the title of an event to display the location and more details about it, as shown in the image below:
If you have an event that you would like us to include, please email us at mirkarimistaff@sfgov.org.
Board of Supervisors Information
Looking for the Board of Supervisors meeting information, minutes, or agendas? Click the picture below or go to www.sfbos.org.
Comments, Suggestions, or Questions?
Do you have any comments, suggestions, complaints, or questions about our newsletter or anything else? Email us at mirkarimistaff@sfgov.org or call the office 554-7630.
Did you miss a previous newsletter?
Links to the monthly newsletters are now archived on Supervisor Mirkarimi's sfgov.org page. | | | |
