Foggy (SF) Memories

Affair of the Heart

2010-11-15T13:43:00.007-05:00

As most anyone who has known me for any considerable amount of time knows, I am quite the Rick Springfield fanatic. Only recently have begun to really rekindle my ever blossoming affection for this amazing musician. A couple of days ago "Don't Talk to Strangers" became my ring tone for my phone. Just last week I received my mint/sealed original (Chelsea Records) copy of Wait for Night (1974)!!! What a treat it was to not only hear it for the first time scratch free in 20 years, but to also share it w/ my other musicial half and true love, John. He really dug the album and pointed out that the backing musicians on the album were in fact Elton John's band of misfits. How cool is that?? Not to mention how absolutely beautiful it is to be able to listen with someone that also enjoys early Rick. *sigh*

Well, after months, if not years, of whining and sighing over the fact that 1) I have YET to meet my idol Rick Springfield and 2) that this is the 3rd year that the Rick Springfield cruise has sailed out of Miami without me, I finally decided that enough is enough! Early yesterday morning, as soon as the sun was coming up, I began to devise a plan, a financial plan, to make this important neccessary dream a staunch reality.

I grabbed the biggest jar I could find from our pantry (I save jars for seeds, beans, etc and just can't find it in my heart to throw them away!!) this huge pickle jar!!! . Every day we diligently add money to said jar. This is the official Rick jar which, once full, will get John and I to either a local concert with a Meet and Greet, or to Florida for the cruise. Either way, I know it has to be.

Top 100 Ads of the Century

2009-06-21T21:51:00.005-04:00

TOP 100 ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS (www.adage.com)

Volkswagen, "Think Small", Doyle Dane Bernbach, 1959

Coca-Cola, "The pause that refreshes", D'Arcy Co., 1929

Marlboro, The Marlboro Man, Leo Burnett Co., 1955

Nike, "Just do it", Wieden & Kennedy, 1988

McDonald's, "You deserve a break today", Needham, Harper & Steers, 1971

DeBeers, "A diamond is forever", N.W. Ayer & Son, 1948

Absolut Vodka, The Absolut Bottle, TBWA, 1981

Miller Lite beer, "Tastes great, less filling", McCann-Erickson Worldwide, 1974

Clairol, Does she...or doesn't she?", Foote, Cone & Belding, 1957

Avis, "We try harder", Doyle Dane Bernbach, 1963

Federal Express, "Fast talker", Ally & Gargano, 1982

Apple Computer, "1984", Chiat/Day, 1984

Alka-Seltzer, Various ads, Jack Tinker & Partners; Doyle Dane Bernbach; Wells Rich, Greene, 1960s, 1970s

Pepsi-Cola, "Pepsi-Cola hits the spot", Newell-Emmett Co., 1940s

Maxwell House, "Good to the last drop", Ogilvy, Benson & Mather, 1959

Ivory Soap, "99 and 44/100% Pure", Proctor & Gamble Co., 1882

American Express, "Do you know me?", Ogilvy & Mather, 1975

U.S. Army, "Be all that you can be", N.W. Ayer & Son, 1981

Anacin, "Fast, fast, fast relief", Ted Bates & Co., 1952

Rolling Stone, "Perception. Reality.", Fallon McElligott Rice, 1985

Pepsi-Cola, "The Pepsi generation", Batton, Barton, Durstine & Osborn, 1964

Hathaway Shirts, "The man in the Hathaway shirt", Hewitt, Ogilvy, Benson & Mather, 1951

Burma-Shave, Roadside signs in verse, Allen Odell, 1925

Burger King, "Have it your way", BBDO, 1973

Campbell Soup, "Mmm mm good", BBDO, 1930s

U.S. Forest Service, Smokey the Bear/"Only you can prevent forest fires", Advertising Council/Foote, Cone & Belding
Budweiser, "This Bud's for you", D'Arcy Masius Benton & Bowles, 1970s

Maidenform, "I dreamed I went shopping in my Maidenform bra", Norman, Craig & Kunnel, 1949

Victor Talking Machine Co., "His master's voice", Francis Barraud, 1901

Jordan Motor Car Co., "Somewhere west of Laramie", Edward S. (Ned) Jordan, 1923

Woodbury Soap, "The skin you love to touch", J. Walter Thompson Co., 1911

Benson & Hedges 100s, "The disadvantages", Wells, Rich, Greene, 1960s

National Biscuit Co., Uneeda Biscuits' Boy in Boots, N.W. Ayer & Son, 1899

Energizer, The Energizer Bunny, Chiat/Day, 1989

Morton Salt, "When it rains it pours", N.W. Ayer & Son, 1912

Chanel, "Share the fantasy", Doyle Dane Bernbach, 1979

Saturn, "A different kind of company, A different kind of car.", Hal Riney & Partners, 1989

Crest toothpaste, "Look, Ma! No cavities!", Benton & Bowles, 1958

M&Ms, "Melts in your mouth, not in your hands", Ted Bates & Co., 1954

Timex, "Takes a licking and keeps on ticking", W.B. Doner & Co & predecessor agencies, 1950s

Chevrolet, "See the USA in your Chevrolet", Campbell-Ewald, 1950s

Calvin Klein, "Know what comes between me and my Calvins? Nothing!

Reagan for President, "It's morning again in America" Tuesday Team, 1984

Winston cigarettes, "Winston tastes good--like a cigarette should" 1954

U.S. School of Music, "They laughed when I sat down at the piano, but when I started to play!" Ruthrauff & Ryan, 1925

Camel cigarettes, "I'd walk a mile for a Camel", N. W. Ayer & Son, 1921

Wendy's, "Where's the beef?", Dancer-Fitzgerald-Sample, 1984

Listerine, "Always a bridesmaid, but never a bride", Lambert & Feasley, 1923

Cadillac, "The penalty of leadership", MacManus, John & Adams, 1915

Keep America Beautiful, "Crying Indian", Advertising Council/Marstellar Inc., 1971

Charmin, "Please don't squeeze the Charmin", Benton & Bowles, 1964

Wheaties, "Breakfast of champions", Blackett-Sample-Hummert, 1930s

Coca-Cola, "It's the real thing", McCann-Erickson, 1970

Greyhound, "It's such a comfort to take the bus and leave the driving to us", Grey Advertising, 1957

Kellogg's Rice Krispies, "Snap! Crackle! and Pop!", Leo Burnett Co., 1940s

Polaroid, "It's so simple", Doyle Dane Bernbach, 1977

Gillette, "Look sharp, feel sharp", BBDO, 1940s

Levy's Rye Bread, "You don't have to be Jewish to love Levy's Rye Bread", Doyle Dane Bernbach, 1949

Pepsodent, "You'll wonder where the yellow went", Foote, Cone & Belding, 1956

Lucky Strike cigarettes, "Reach for a Lucky instead of a sweet", Lord & Thomas, 1920s

7 UP, "The Uncola", J. Walter Thompson, 1970s

Wisk detergent, "Ring around the collar", BBDO, 1968

Sunsweet Prunes, "Today the pits, tomorrow the wrinkles", Freberg Ltd., 1970s

Life cereal, "Hey, Mikey", Doyle Dane Bernbach, 1972

Hertz, "Let Hertz put you in the driver's seat", Norman, Craig & Kummel, 1961

Foster Grant, "Who's that behind those Foster Grants?", Geer, Dubois, 1965

Perdue chicken, "It takes a tough man to make tender chicken" Scali, McCabe, Sloves, 1971

Hallmark, "When you care enough to send the very best", Foote, Cone & Belding, 1930s

Springmaid sheets, "A buck well spent", In-house, 1948

Queensboro Corp., Jackson Heights Apartment Homes, WEAF, NYC, 1920s

Steinway & Sons, "The instrument of the immortals", N.W. Ayer & Sons, 1919

Levi's jeans, "501 Blues", Foote, Cone & Belding, 1984

Blackglama-Great Lakes Mink, "What becomes a legend most?", Jane Trahey Associates, 1960s

Blue Nun wine, Stiller & Meara campaign, Della Famina, Travisano & Partners, 1970s

Hamm's beer, "From the Land of Sky Blue Waters", Campbell-Mithun, 1950s

Quaker Puffed Wheat, "Shot from guns", Lord & Thomas, 1920s

ESPN Sports, "This is SportsCenter", Wieden & Kennedy, 1995

Molson Beer, Laughing Couple, Moving & Talking Picture Co., 1980s

California Milk Processor Board, "Got Milk?", 1993

AT&T, "Reach out and touch someone", N.W. Ayer, 1979

Brylcreem, "A little dab'll do ya", Kenyon & Eckhardt, 1950s

Carling Black Label beer, "Hey Mabel, Black Label!", Lang, Fisher & Stashower, 1940s

Isuzu, "Lying Joe Isuzu", Della Famina, Travisano & Partners, 1980s

BMW, "The ultimate driving machine", Ammirati & Puris, 1975

Texaco, "You can trust your car to the men who wear the star", Benton & Bowles, 1940s

Coca-Cola, "Always", Creative Artists Agency, 1993

Xerox, "It's a miracle", Needham, Harper & Steers, 1975

Bartles & Jaymes, "Frank and Ed", Hal Riney & Partners, 1985

Dannon Yogurt, Old People in Russia, Marstellar Inc., 1970s

Volvo, Average life of a car in Sweden, Scali, McCabe, Sloves, 1960s

Motel 6, "We'll leave a light on for you", Richards Group, 1988

Jell-O, Bill Cosby with kids, Young & Rubicam, 1975

IBM, Chaplin's Little Tramp character, Lord, Geller, Federico, Einstein, 1982

American Tourister, The Gorilla, Doyle, Dane Bernbach, late 1960s

Right Guard, "Medicine Cabinet", BBDO, 1960s

Maypo, "I want my Maypo", Fletcher, Calkins & Holden, 1960s

Bufferin, Pounding heartbeat, Young & Rubicam, 1960

Arrow Shirts, "My friend, Joe Holmes, is now a horse", Young & Rubicam, 1938

Young & Rubicam, "Impact", Young & Rubicam, 1930

Lyndon Johnson for President, "Daisy", Doyle Dane Bernbach, 1964

Thank You to www.adage.com for this info.

All Rights Reserved © 1999 & 2005, Advertising Age
Crain Communications, Inc.
editor@AdAge.com
.

Comfort Wipe - the SPOOF!

2009-06-20T21:31:00.003-04:00

Roadkill 101

2009-06-19T12:41:00.006-04:00

As a relatively new driver, I realize there are a certain number of "firsts" which I am sure to encounter. First speeding ticket. First "slo-poking" along behind an elderly driver. First "I locked my keys in car". First drive to work on icy streets. But this past Monday, as I headed into work, I encountered one of my most dreaded firsts - my first roadkill.

Granted, I see all sorts of unfortunate animals strewn about the streets, many times impossible to even indentify. It had fur and legs - and that's about all you can usually make out.

But this past Monday morning, at around 5:10 am, I was heading up Creedmoor Road here in North Raleigh, completely caught up in my "Beatles For Sale" CD when out of nowhere this adorable, furry, happy-go-lucky bunny rabbit comes darting across the road. As I caught him in my headlights, I froze. He froze. Neither one of us sure of what to do. With traffic to my right and behind me, I had to think fast. He didn't seem to be doing any sort of deep thinking. He just stood there, staring at me as if to say, "Hey, I know you gotta think fast, but could you please try not to hit me?" Believe me when I say I am the last person to intentionally take a small animal's life, but this situation called for a quick manuever. My logic said try and get him in between my tires (brand new tires too, by the way) and hopefully he'd clear the bottom of the car and come out unscathed. I did just that.

Sadly, my calculations did not account for the fact this rabbit may, in a moment of panic, try to hop, as rabbits do, whilst under the car.

I hear a sickening "thud" as I passed over him. Clearly he had hopped. I immediately looked up in my rear view mirror, only to see this poor little guy spinning in circles on the pavement, obviously killed by the blunt force trauma to his head.

Needless to say, I lost it. I felt like I had just opened fire on the damned thing. Between trying to drive, and praying for God to forgive me, and crying, I finally did make it to work semi-composed. Not a good way to start off the week.

As the week went on, I slowly let that memory go, and forgave myself for something which I had no control over. What was done, was done. I just hoped I would not be put in that position again any time soon. Too much to ask for apparently.

This morning, coming home from Kroger, on that same stretch of Creedmoor Road, only this time heading in the opposite direction, I came across a squirrel darting across which was, at 10:00 am, a very busy road. This time I was lucky enough not to have anyone behind me within a dangerous distance, so as he ran out in front of my car, I slowed to almost a stop, safely, and the squirrel panicked and darted left, only to have the car in the lane next to me honk and then speed over him like a steamroller. I watched in horror as parts of the squirrel exploded all over the road. Even though it was not at my hand this time, it was almost just as upsetting.

I couldn't believe it. Twice. Twice in five days I encountered this nauseating scene. Is it normal for a person to be shaken the way I was when this happens? Perhaps I am making a mountain out of a mole hill, but I digress. Even knowing that this happens to hundreds, if not thousnads of animals every day doesn't make it sit any easier on my conscience. Go ahead and call me "over sensitive" if you like, but man, what an awful beginning and end to this week.

Now, where's that bus schedule????

Making hubby happy - in 1955

2009-06-19T12:32:00.004-04:00

I came across this Housekeeper's Monthly excerpt from May 1955. According to society in the fifties, wives sole purpose is to cook, clean, and keep quiet - not to mention lighting fires and realizing her topics of conversation are not as important as his. No surprises there...
(open this image in paint and zoom to read article - it's worth it!)

To My Love

2009-06-17T19:26:00.006-04:00

I post this from my heart, because that is where he lives....

No one ever claimed life was an easy road to travel. I will be the first to admit that. But considering the places I have been, and the person I have become as a result of this, I have to say that the "me" that writes this is content and truly happy.

I don't care to recount all my mistakes and painful memories, although they are undoubtedly a part of who I am. I want only to let you know how I truly feel, so that you will have no reservations or confusion.

John Taylor, you have no idea just how important you are to me, in my life, my heart, and my very existence here on Earth. You inspire me always!!! It is your sheer essence that puts a smile on my face every morning when I awake; even more so when you are there with me. This is the happiness I have longed for...I see in you the man I have always dreamed of. A man of beauty, strength, compassion, intelligence, humor, and wit. But not just these things - you possess the rare ability to understand me, and I can't thank you enough for that. It speaks volumes to me and lets me know every day how much you love me.

I adore you. In every way. Your smile is contagious, your embraces warm and passionate at the same time. When you touch me, nothing else matters. All of a sudden it's only you and I in the universe, and that's a beautiful feeling. Whether it be Raleigh, or Orange Beach, or Jupiter, I am the luckiest girl alive.

Unfortunately, my life has taken its toll in several ways over the years, and so many times I feel unable to show you just how much I love you. For this, I can only apologize and hope that you will know that my love for you is real, and complete, and forever lasting. Unconditional.

Since we have come together to share our lives, I have learn so many things, and continue to do so. I have learned that it is ok to trust, and its even more ok to dream. I look forward to the future now, when before all I could see was pain and obstacles. I had always fought my way uphill alone, but I know now that I have a solid partner in you, and honey, I can't describe how happy that makes me.

What are the odds of two quirky outcasts seeking each other out in the cosmos AND finding one another? I think it's something like 2 to the power of 3.1423045867374 and falling (LOL). We enjoy the most random things - and its awesome!!! You are an inspiration as well as best friend. A lover, and also a teacher. We journey together and hold each other's hand as life finally becomes bright again - and forever shining.

I post this as a blog because I have no fear in showing how I feel. I see no need to hide my feelings - you make me proud to be yours.

I love, cherish, and adore you. XOXOXOXOXO Me

Dammit Jim - I'm a doctor, not a....

2009-06-14T20:11:00.002-04:00

Finally, after much internet scouring, I have landed this classic SNL clip featuring the Star Trek parody "Star Trek V: The Restaurant Enterprise":

Classic SNL: The Restaurant Enterprise

Dana Carvey SNL Auditions

2009-06-14T19:23:00.004-04:00

I was cruising youtube looking for a rare old SNL sketch featurin Dana Carvey as Khan in the Star Trek revolving restaurant but...instead, here's a great look into the auditions for Lorne Michaels that Dana Carvey performed prior to getting to SNL spot:

Blackbird....fly!!!

2009-06-13T18:48:00.003-04:00

From the news desk of KPIX Channel 5 come a story about one very protective bird down on Front Street:

SF Bird Attacks Pedestrians, Gets Worldwide Notice

The bird is reported to reside on Front Street between California and Sacramento streets, and has been featured in articles on CNN and BBC News after continually diving down on people walking along the street.

The bird has a small nest in the area and has been doing the attacks for a couple of weeks, according to an employee at Schroeder's, a German restaurant located nearby.

None of the attacks appear to have caused serious injury. However, they have attracted groups of people "laughing, waiting and watching during their lunch breaks," the employee said. "He's a star right now."

A Web site, http://www.frontstreetattackbird.blogspot.com, has been set up to follow the bird, referred to as Swoops by the site's creators.

An official with San Francisco Animal Care and Control said that these types of incidents happen all the time because of birds guarding their nests.

Johnny Carson and Uri Geller

2009-06-13T12:57:00.002-04:00

Watch as Uri squirms in the presence of Johnny. Enjoy....

Never touch another dirty toilet tissue!!

2009-06-13T12:53:00.001-04:00

How can you NOT love this?? It's real...and it frightens me.

Where am I?

2009-06-11T20:48:00.006-04:00

**HAPPY BIRTHDAY V!!"

Well, when I started this blog three months ago I was happily unemployed, but really needing an outlet (not to mention a supplemental income!!). Since going back to work, you have no doubt noticed the sluggishness in which posts are made. Honestly, I have been drawn to other avenues of my life, mainly work and home. I have also began toying with the idea of expanding this blog to include all things ME. I have far too many interests to maintain 20 different blogs, so look for more and more "off the beaten path" entries as well!! Never fear, though, new posts are coming!! Stay tuned....

Until then, enjoy this hilarious short clip of the infamous bush man at Fisherman's Wharf courtesy of youtube.com:

Evening Magazine w/ Jan and Steve 1980

2009-06-03T21:10:00.002-04:00

This clip from vintage Evening Magazine with Jan Yanahiro and Steve Fox wishing goodbye to San Jose's Frontier Village.

Conan O'Brien in San Francisco 2007 w/ Tom Waits

2009-05-31T12:10:00.006-04:00

Thomas Alan Waits (born December 7, 1949) is an American singer-songwriter, composer and actor. Waits has a distinctive voice, described by critic Daniel Durchholz as sounding "like it was soaked in a vat of bourbon, left hanging in the smokehouse for a few months, and then taken outside and run over with a car." With this trademark growl, his incorporation of pre-rock music styles such as blues, jazz, and vaudeville, and experimental tendencies verging on industrial music, Waits has built up a distinctive musical persona. (courtesy wikipedia)

I am really digging Tom Waits lately - I mean really digging him. Pure genius this man...today I heard the entire "Nighthawks at the Diner" LP from 1975 and was mesmorized. I wanted so badly to tie in Tom Waits and San Francisco, so here ya go. Conan O'Brien filmed in San Francisco one week back in 2007 and interviewed Tom Waits. HA!! I did it!!

Also, congrats to Conan for snaggin' that Tonight Show gig - good luck Monday night!

The Tuesday noon siren

2009-05-26T09:49:00.002-04:00

All of us living in the city know what this is. Every Tuesday, even as I grew up in Daly City, at noon on the dot, you would hear this noise. Check out this very cool informative video regarding the siren from Youtube:

Happy Birthday Harvey Milk

2009-05-23T18:35:00.005-04:00

Yesterday would have been Harvey Milk's 79th birthday. Unfortunately, Harvey's life was cut short in November of 1978 when he was assassinated along with Mayor George Moscone in City Hall.
We will never forget all you did for the San Francisco gay community, not to mention securing the civil rights of gay/lesbian/transgender people around the world.

Peace.

Back to the streets

2009-05-22T11:47:00.003-04:00

Returning to The Streets of San Francisco
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
posted July 29, 2008

CBS is developing a contemporary remake of the classic 1970s cop series "The Streets of San Francisco," which starred Michael Douglas and Karl Malden.The Hollywood Reporter says feature writer Sheldon Turner (The Longest Yard) and "Numb3rs" producer Robert Port are writing the script, with Simon West on board to direct the potential pilot.CBS Paramount TV, which owns the rights to Quinn Martin Productions' original series, is producing the new take that has received a script order from the network.Turner and Port, a certified member of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, had worked on reinventing "Streets" for the past seven months. They spent time in San Francisco, riding along with SFPD cops.The trade adds that the remake will keep key elements from the original series: the title, the names of the two main characters and, of course, the backdrop of the City by the Bay. The series will also feature elements of a traditional crime procedural.

Arboretum update

2009-05-21T09:40:00.002-04:00

Those who can attend SHOULD! The more we sit idly by, the more they sell off our City like an auction. Please don't let it continue. Help preserve what little character San Francisco has left. BE HEARD!

Speaking of bizarre....

2009-05-21T08:53:00.005-04:00

Wanna know just how screwball San Francisco really is?? I suggest checking out the Holy Grail of weird SF...Jack Boulware's "San Francisco Bizarro: A Guide to Notorious Sites, Lusty Pursuits, and Downright Freakiness in the City by the Bay". Here are a few of his strange entries:

One of the original drag reviews on the West Coast, Finocchio's on Broadway broke new ground with it's frighteningly convincing female impersonators. Somehow I get the feeling that the gowns were the least of the attractions!

I love this item! Mark McLoud is hardly a household name, but he happens to own an out of the ordinary collection. Also known as the "Institute of Illegal Images" it is the most comprehensive collection of decorated neutralized LSD blotter paper in the world. As such, the collection has been the target of two criminal trials where McCloud was forced to defend not only the collection, but also his own liberty.

An artist named Jeanie M. at PaxtonGate.com offers an unusual service: taxidermy of a rodent nature. That's right - you can have your favorite gerbil stuffed and mounted, not to mention papally dressed, in one of many twisted religious costumes.

Where do I start with this one?? Apparently anyone can become an "ordained minister", so says the Universal Life Church. They even send you a card to stick in your wallet, right next to your Costco card. Famous members in good standing include Johnny Carson, Mae West, Wolfman Jack, and even LBJ. What's not to love?

I always wanted to write a book like this, but apparently Mr. Boulware beat me to it. Kudos to you, sir!

Bizarro - Dan Piraro

2009-05-21T08:38:00.005-04:00

Today I thought I would share a smattering of some of my favorite Bizarro panels. Happy Thursday!

Praise to fellow blogger Peter Bruce

2009-05-20T11:45:00.004-04:00

I don't know how many of you have noticed, but on the righthand side of my blog you'll see a column of the San Francisco blogs I currently follow. One of my favorites is titled "1 Picture. 3 Words. 365 Days." This blog, started my Bay Area wedding photographer Peter Bruce, follows a daily routine of randomly picking people on various downtown streets in the City, taking their picture, and then asking for three words from them to describe their current mood/situation. Peter even has a link to his Cafe Press store which sells everything from hats to hoodies. All profits will help publish a book of the whole project; all 365 days on day 366.

Nice.

I really enjoy this blog! Every day, the photo selected reaches out to you and seems to fall into place with the rest of his collection. What a great idea - a virtual photo journal of 365 random citizens summing up their mood in three words. Brilliant.

Pip, pip, cheerio!!

2009-05-15T13:06:00.006-04:00

About 12 years ago I briefly dated this scientist who had a penchant for the Beatles and carried about 25 patents. We have since parted ways, but at the time weekends were spent cruising up and down the California coast in search of rare gems. Cameron's in Half Moon Bay was one of them.

This place was like nothing I had ever seen. Thousands of beer cans from all over the world covered the walls (see Pictures tab on the website). As you walked in, you immediately felt as though you'd been born there. What a home away from home.

Out back, Cameron's offers a rather unusual array of old double decker buses from London. These buses are open to the public, and you are free to enjoy a drink and/or a smoke inside these UK treasures. They are actually set up as mini diners inside with tables and seats.

Cameron's in also a bed and breakfast offering charming rooms at a reasonable price.

Clowns to the left me, jokers to the right

2009-05-15T08:45:00.009-04:00

The Purple Onion
(thanks to Wikipedia for the 411)

The Purple Onion is a well known club in the North Beach neighborhood of San Francisco located at 140 Columbus (between Jackson and Pacific). The club offers an intimate, 80-person setting and was a popular influence in local music and entertainment during the Beat era. Lenny Bruce, Mort Sahl, Woody Allen, Richard Pryor, Maya Angelou, Phyllis Diller (who made her stand-up debut here), the Kingston Trio, and the Smothers Brothers (who recorded their first album, Live at the Purple Onion there) all played the club through the 1950s & 60s.

In the early 90s, owner Tom Guido made the club the center of San Francisco's garage rock scene. Although almost always packed, Guido's mismanagement and penchant for giving away free beer doomed the future of the club.

In 2004, the club returned to its comedy roots. A weekly comedy night was started that featured comedians such as Robin Williams, Paul Krassner, Jim Short and Tom Rhodes. Since then, comedians such as Greg Proops, Zach Galifianakis, Todd Barry, Dan Piraro (yes, of Bizarro fame) and Judah Friedlander have all graced the Onion's stage. Today, the club's weekly comedy nights are produced by Bay Area comedy website SF Standup.

The Purple Onion is a comedy landmark. In 2005, the San Francisco Bay Guardian voted it the "Best back-from-the-dead nightclub". Don't ya just love miracles?

Here we go again

2009-05-11T11:31:00.007-04:00

I seem to remember a time back in the 1990s when MUNI attempted to get rid of transfers....are you laughing as hard as I am? Those sure were funny times. I think it lasted about a month and soon peace was restored on all MUNI lines. Thousands of us public transit riders breathed a sigh of relief and foolishly thought they had learned their lesson.

Not hardly.

With the City's budget out of whack, and overpaid underworked bigwigs doing everything in their power to maintain their 6 figure incomes, it's now been proposed that MUNI cut several routes and raise fares, thus you will be paying more for less. Weren't we doing that already? I was very surprised to see that the fare had jumped to $1.50 already! When was this??? Now they want to hike it up another 50 cents to $2.00?? Really?

Last month, the agency proposed to cut several lines altogether, such as the 3-Jackson, 4-Sutter, 7-Haight, 20-Columbus, 26-Valencia. The Examiner reported on May 1st that all proposed route eliminations and fare hikes (including a $60 monthly Fast Pass) were approved. Awww, come on!!

There goes another piece of the City.

Letters to our Mothers

2009-05-10T15:05:00.009-04:00

Dear Mom:
Thank you. For all the hugs, and coffee chats, and constant support no matter how stupid my actions. Thank you for the cookies, and the Blair orders, and the slippers, and Santa goodies ever year. Thank you for listening to me no matter how upset (or drunk) I was. Thank you for never losing faith in your Pooh. Thank you for every loaf of zucchini bread. Thank you for those cookbooks you spent a whole summer putting together just for me. Thank you for listening to my piano playing over the phone and NOT cringing. Thank you for all the movie recommendations. Thank you for all the music. Thank you for sharing the funniest commercials on tv with me. Thank you for all the Twilight Zone marathons. Thank you for all the good times at Western Village. Thank you for hanging in there as long as you could. Thank you for giving me so much love and I look forward to endless Downy hugs. Thank you for getting my jokes. Thank you for laughing at my Rod Serling impressions. Thank you for always knowing what I needed and when I needed it. Thank you for sharing in my joys and achievements. Thank you for giving me a solid private school education. Thank you for never giving up on me. Thank you mom for bringing me into this world. I try to make the most of it every single day.

Miss you and love you,
Your Pooh

Happy Mother's Day to you and yours. Peace.

Wanna stop and smell the roses? It'll cost ya....

2009-05-09T11:24:00.010-04:00

Can't....take....it.....must.....vent.....

Over the years, one of the most unsettling truths about the City I love is that it no longer loves me. Nor does it seem to care much for the hundreds of thousands of us that either grew up there, or even still can afford to call it home.

Seems every day, more and more San Franciscans are fighting tooth and nail to hold on to those seemingly small, yet VERY significant, pieces of their culture. It wasn't always this way. Frankly, it never should have been.

Such is the case regarding the SF Botanical Gardens (i.e. Strybing Arboretum). A recent city meeting was held to try and convince locals that it is absolutely a GRAND idea to start charging upwards of $7.00 to stroll through a public garden that otherwise has been FREE since 1940. For 70 years, maintaining these gardens was possible, but somebody finally figured out that they weren't turning a profit, and realized that in today's San Francisco, that's ILLEGAL!! The Dept of Parks & Rec claim the gardens as they sit now aren't good enough. Seems we must "Disney" ourselves up to compete with the rest of the nation, or the world, or the universe, or some other ridiculous argument that only serves to show, yet again, just how greedy and clueless our city officials have truly become.

Nancy McNally of San Francisco recently shared some disturbing photos with me regarding the upcoming King Tut exhibit at the California Academy of Sciences. I was confused. Was it a museum exhibit, or the newest ride at Six Flags??? So hard to tell!! And while we are on the subject, since when did good ol' Great America become SIX FLAGS? (I know it was owned by Marriott, but still). And am I the only one that became outraged when the new Giants ballpark was called PAC BELL PARK? 3 COM? ORACLE Arena (aka the old Oakland Coliseum)??!?!?!? What's next, Microsoft Gardens???

Okay, so here's the next question: What can I do?

Well, you can start by visiting THIS ONLINE PETITION to make your voice heard. Residents want to live in a city - not an amusement park.

Seems its working. Check out this recent post from Livin' in the Loin. (Great blog by the way!!!) Never underestimate the power of angry inner Sunset residents!!

The city of my youth was a city of character; bold and stunning uniqueness that stood out among other major U.S. cities. We never required a corporate sponsor. Since when does it cost money to stroll through a public garden? Before long, photgraphing our landmarks will require a permit and an ALL SEASON PASS!

To live here is/was an honor, a birthright, not an award to the highest bidder!!! ARGH!!

It's only noon, and I need a drink...

Mother's Cookies Update UPDATE

2009-05-07T08:10:00.003-04:00

Okay, here we go - Kellogg's HAS released Mother's Cookies at Safeway's in the Bay Area and they are in fact Mother's!!! No Flaky Flix (sigh) but plenty of the true classic favorites. If anyone out there would like to send me a package of Circus Animal cookies (because I know how you all love me) email me at hcstockham@msn.com. Please let me know how these new Mother's Cookies stand up to the original.

Now go grab some milk and start snackin'!

Mother's Cookies UPDATE

2009-05-06T23:20:00.006-04:00

Just when all hope was lost:

Earlier this week I posted a blog entry regarding the demise of Mother's Cookies, an Oakland institution for almost 100 years. I scoured through pages of comments on various sites left by heartbroken cookie connosieurs that were determined NOT to open that LAST bag of Circus Animal Cookies hidden in the pantry for fear that it may be their last. Well, I have some wonderful news for you all:

Circus Animals are back. Really. I think.

According to one of my readers, somewhere in all this hostile corporate hijacking and bankruptcy filing, Nabisco has just come out with what they call Nabisco Classics which, as far as either one of us can tell, are Mother's cookies. I don't see Flaky Flix in that assortment, but I do see circus animals, and that's just fine. I am still rubbing my eyes in amazement.

The only thing that really concerns me is that I have read time and time again how so many of these products are bought up by other companies,the recipe is changed, they are re-released, and long time fans run out to buy them up, only to be sadly disappointed that they are nothing like they used to be. As I read more about these new circus animals, I am seeing it seems to be the case. Big thumbs down. But I am still hopeful - I have to be!

This happened to me recently when I bought a few tubes of Flicks. Back in the 1970s and 1980s, Ghirardelli had these delicious chocolate candies called Flicks. They looked like flat oversized chocolate chips and they came in colored cardboard tubes. They vanished for years, then resurfaced not too long ago on one of those "candy from your childhood" websites. I couldn't resist, but to my dismay, these things were disgusting; nothing like the original.

Tomorrow is grocery day. I know what I'll be looking for.

Museum of Toons? ZOINKS!

2009-05-06T20:31:00.009-04:00

Tucked away in between 2nd and 3rd Streets on Mission (Yerba Buena Gardens) is the too often overlooked Cartoon Art Museum. Started in 1984, this "museum without walls" wandered from exhibit to exhibit until finally setting up shop in 1987 at its current location. This was made very possible by the very generous backing of Charles M. Schultz (Peanuts).

The Cartoon Art Museum is the only museum on the West Coast dedicated to cartoon art in all its many forms. This unique institution houses approximately 6,000 original pieces in its permanent collection and a complete volume research/library. In addition to seven major exhibitions a year, the museum has a classroom for cartoon art and a bookstore.

Currently, the museum is showcasing two very fabulous exhibits that are definitely worth checking out:

WATCHMEN thru July 19th

The Cartoon Art Museum presents an in-depth look at the film and the graphic novel that inspired it in its latest exhibition.

The Art of Stan Sakai thru July 5th

The Cartoon Art Museum proudly presents The Art of Stan Sakai: Celebrating 25 Years of Usagi Yojimbo, a career-spanning retrospective featuring over 60 pieces of original artwork by the critically-acclaimed artist.

Click here for more information.

For love of coffee

2009-05-05T06:06:00.005-04:00

Last time I was in San Francisco was back in 2007. I was living just north of Boston at the time and had traveled back home to take care of some unfortunate family business. While passing through SFO, imagine my surprise to find a Peet's coffee kiosk tucked away at the end of one of the terminals!! It was been so long since I had enjoyed a true cup of coffee (New England is Dunkin' Donuts country). I think I sort of freaked out the girl behind the counter when I gleefully exclaimed, "You have no idea how happy I am to see you!!!" Still, she was more than cordial, and within moments I was indulging in a cup o' joe so thick that had I used a spoon, it would have surely disintegrated. Lucky for me, Peet's is now available at my local Kroger market in whole bean form here in Raleigh!

I mention this because today I go to work for one of the biggest coffee conglomerates in the known universe, Starbucks. Although I am the last to admit to being a fan of corporate coffee, I definitely look forward to surrounding myself with one of my favorite guilty pleasures. But still, I miss my hometown brew.

Luckily, there are a few very well-reviewed local coffee roasters worth checking out should you ever find yourself in need of something unique and tasty:

Blue Bottle Coffee
315 Linden St
San Francisco, CA 94102
(415) 252-7535

Numerous reviews say this locally micro-roasted organic coffee is tops. This would definitely be one of my first stops.

Philz Coffee
Three locations in the city, including the Castro, the Mission, and Mission Bay
Also coming soon to San Jose and Berkeley

Philz Coffee in San Francisco has developed a devoted following, and for good reason. The twenty blends that are now available by the pound are the result of 25 years of coffee alchemy and invention. How can a true coffee connoisseur resist?

Peet's Coffee and Tea
Various locations nationwide

Alfred Peet first started roasting the seedlings of the coffee revolution in his tiny location on Vine Street in Berkeley back in 1966. Today, his coffee is availble throughout the United States and has never lost its unique body or zesty aroma. This is coffee to swear by, and believe me I do, on a daily basis.

This list is far from complete, so it's really up to you to get out there and support your local coffeehouse to find that "perfect cup o' joe" and when you do, feel free to email me at hcstockham@msn.com because I never know when I will be back in my hometown, jonesing for java!

Edible Expeditions May 7- Nov 1

2009-05-04T10:43:00.006-04:00

Coming soon to the Conservatory of Flowers in San Francisco's historic Golden Gate Park:

Edible Expeditions

This is a great opportunity for foodies of all ages to get a chance to experience gourmet finds frm all over the world. Arranged in lush garden demonstrations, you'll see chocolate, vanilla, coffee, rice and spices galore. Find out just how these treasures find their way into your pantry and onto your palate.

Click here for more information.

Mother's Cookies RIP 1914-2008

2009-05-04T09:59:00.005-04:00

Old news for some, a shocking realization for others

As many of you are well aware by now, or if some of you are wondering why you haven't been able to find a package of iced oatmeal cookies on local Safeway shelves, Mother's Cookies of Oakland, CA bought the farm last October when bankruptcy swept them up and away, along all of our favorite treats as kids, like Circus Animals, Taffy, and the almighty most delicious Flaky Flix.

According to cookie legend, Mother's was founded in 1914 by a newspaper vendor named N.M. Wheatley, as a one-man shop. It expanded and moved to the 81st Avenue location in 1949.

Throughout the 1990s, up until their abrupt closure in 2008 Mother's had been handed of to many different owners and from what I have heard is currently owned by Kelloggs but whether or not these timeless treats will be put back into production is still in question.

I don't know how I can live in a world without Flaky Flix! It was pure genius - crispy wafers with chocolate creme in between , covered in milk chocolate, and THEN rolled in some sort of Corn Flake mixture. Sheer bliss.

Doesn't Kellogg's make Corn Flakes? Hmmmm.....

Paris Hilton don't eat that.....

2009-05-01T17:52:00.008-04:00

The only thing San Francisco about this post is that it comes from SFGate.com and comes from an AP medical writer, but it definitely had to be shared:

Paris Hilton not only one confused about swine flu
By LINDSEY TANNER, AP Medical Writer

Friday, May 1, 2009

(05-01) 01:06 PDT CHICAGO, (AP) --

Paris Hilton says "I don't eat that" when asked about swine flu in an online video. She's not the only one confused about the outbreak.

Others have vowed to stop eating pork. Some, worried about germs spreading in confined spaces, won't fly — anywhere. Or they think petting zoos and farm visits are off limits.

Like the swine flu itself, misinformation is spreading like a virus across the Internet, around the watercooler and across the backyard fence. Here are some facts to dispel myths about swine flu.

Q: Should I avoid pork?

A: There's no evidence that swine flu spreads through pork. While it's important to cook it properly to protect against other germs, experts say even handling raw pork poses no realistic risk of swine flu.

Q: What about airplanes — aren't airline cabins breeding grounds for germs?

A: Vice President Joe Biden suggested he believes that when he said Thursday he has advised his family not to fly. The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises against going to Mexico, the country hardest hit by swine flu. And public health officials say people with flu symptoms should avoid public transportation. But they aren't telling healthy people to avoid all air travel, and Obama administration representatives later said Biden had misspoken.

Most modern airliners have air filtering systems that are as efficient at weeding out germs as those used in hospital isolation units. While there have been occasional infectious disease outbreaks associated with airplane travel, they're not common, and generally only people within a few rows of the sick individual have gotten sick.

"We shouldn't go overboard" on limiting air travel, said Dr. Mark Dworkin, an infectious disease specialist at the University of Illinois at Chicago. But he said it's a good idea to check the CDC's Web site before making travel plans because the agency's advisories may change as the outbreak develops.

Q: My child's preschool class is planning a visit to a petting zoo — with piglets. Should we skip it?

A: Dr. Kenneth Alexander, the University of Chicago's pediatric infectious disease chief, says there's no danger in touching pigs, although a sneezing, sick-looking animal should be avoided. Adults also should be vigilant about making sure kids keep their hands away from their faces after contact with farm animals and they should always wash their hands thoroughly afterward.

Q: My child is healthy and there are no reports of flu at her school, but I'd feel more comfortable keeping her home for a while.

A: Right now, public health authorities say there's no reason to restrict healthy children if there's no flu at school. That could change if the outbreak turns into a global pandemic.

Q: If this outbreak is declared a real worldwide pandemic, tens of millions will get sick and die, just like in the 1918 Spanish flu — right?

A: Public health officials say there are a lot of reasons why that's unlikely, at least in the United States. Unlike that crisis, we now have flu-fighting medicines and antibiotics for secondary infections such as pneumonia, which killed many people during the 1918 outbreak.

Because it appears to be a novel flu strain, everyone exposed to the virus is at risk of getting sick. Authorities are trying to determine how aggressive the new flu is, but even if it turns out to be a particularly dangerous strain, the United States and other developed countries have a strong surveillance network and comprehensive public health measures that didn't exist in 1918, Dworkin noted.

If the new flu turns out to be similar to regular seasonal flu, as some authorities predict, Dworkin said it might double the number of illnesses and deaths seen in an average flu season. In the United States, that would mean about 70,000 deaths and more than 400,000 hospitalizations.

In developing nations, without strong public health networks, the situation could be more dire.

"It could do much more harm than we would see in a country like ours," Dworkin said.

More free stuff...

2009-05-01T17:45:00.003-04:00

One of my loyal blog followers, Celestine S of San Bruno, has been nice enough to give me a few additions to the list:

More free things in San Francisco:

Asian Art Museum is free the first Sunday of every month.

SF Zoo is free first Wednesday of every month.

Free swing dance lessons every Sunday at the bandshell in Golden Gate Park.

If there is one thing to be said for those of us who grew up in SF, especially those of us with families of our own, we sure learn to be frugal. Thanks!!!

Free in San Francisco

2009-05-01T14:46:00.004-04:00

As usual, while doing some research for a proposed blog topic, I end up coming across something completely unrelated that compels me to post about that instead!

Living in the city is expensive, to say the least. I am surprised Gavin Newsom hasn't proposed a "taking up space" fee for full-time residents. Worry not, for there are many things in San Francisco that are ABSOLUTELY FREE!

Thanks to a fabulous blog called "Free in SF" and a little Googling, I was able to put together a pretty good list of things to do without going broke.

Botanical Gardens (Strybing Arboretum)

Escape to a unique urban oasis of extraordinary beauty. Enjoy the San Francisco Botanical Garden's world of gardens, excellent horticulture library, bookstore, and education programs. The San Francisco Botanical Garden is open daily, 365 days a year and is free to the public. Weekdays: 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Weekends & Holidays: 10 am to 5 pm. FREE GUIDED WALKS are given daily at 1:30 pm.

First Tuesdays

Downtown: Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA), Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, Museum of Craft and Folk Art, and Cartoon Art Museum (pay what you wish).

Golden Gate Park: de Young Museum and the Conservatory of Flowers

Outer Richmond district: Legion of Honor

Third Wednesdays (Academy of Sciences)

The Academy of Sciences is free on the third Wednesday of every month, which this month will be on May 20. Check out the new living roof!!!

Fun facts: The new building cost $500 million dollars. The roof contains 1.7 million native plants. Sixty-eight percent of the building’s insulation is from recycled blue jeans. The Philippine Coral Reef tank holds 212,000 gallons of water. Inside the rain forest exhibit, it’s 82-85 degrees Fahrenheit, and the humidity is at least 75%. The blue-whale skeleton hanging from the ceiling is 87 feet long.
Open 9:30 am - 5:00 pm in Golden Gate Park @ 9th Avenue (near bandshell)

And of course, the scenery is ALWAYS free!! Now get out there and enjoy the City!

Do you have a suggestion for this list?? Email me at hcstockham@msn.com

Colma: The Musical!

2009-04-29T16:16:00.007-04:00

***After a brief hiatus at Atlantic Beach with John, I am back, albeit sunburned, and ready to dive back into our beloved City blog!!****

Yes, you read that right - there is actually a musical based on the little city of Colma, California. For those of you that don't know, Colma is a small town that rests just south of San Francisco, right after Daly City (where I grew up!). As a kid, I recall the strange bumper stickers around town that read, "It's great to be ALIVE in Colma!"

What's the joke, you ask? Well, it is fairly common knowledge that the only burial places in the city proper are the S.F. Columbarium and San Francisco National Cemetery in Golden Gate Park, neither one providing space for public burial. Just about anyone who passes away in San Francisco is buried at one of the many cemeteries in Colma, making the deceased to living ratio approximately 1500:1.

This fact has always intrigued me, so I set out to do a little Colma research, only to find the very first entry on the Google search results to be....Colma: The Musical! Am I the only one that feels a sudden urgent need to see this film???

I never thought this sleepy "dead" town would ever become the theme for a film that, in 2006, was awarded the Special Jury Prize at the San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival, among various others.

I definitely will be looking for this in my Netflix queue with a review sure to follow.

a warm san franciscan night....

2009-04-24T19:16:00.005-04:00

The San Francisco of the 1960's was a place that oozed hip. Music and art came together in such a perfect union it is easy to claim that the Hippie movement of this era inspired a sound that to this day is not only revered, but copied and built upon.

Two heads really are better than one!

the LIVE version!!

Awesome song!!

its my grammar school....St. Stephen!

QMS - Edward the Mad Shirt Grinder circa 1970

Lollipop Concerts

2009-04-23T19:50:00.005-04:00

As a child, it was my good fortune to attend Catholic grammar school (insert nod or laughter here). One of the many perks this status provided was the opportunity to attend one of the San Francisco Symnphony's many children's concerts. I honestly don't know how many they actually had that were geared towards kids, but it seemed the only one they ever took us to was "Peter and the Wolf".

Why they were called lollipop concerts I never understood - no free lollipops were distributed and no lollipops were down on stage making music - I am pretty sure those were in fact people. Maybe it was because we were all "suckers" for having to go. Perhaps it was just a code word that meant "this is a kid friendly concert!" But then I am left to wonder, what sort of concert could the S.F. Symphony POSSIBLY present that was NOT child-friendly? Were there some sort of midnight performances at the Market Street Cinema that none of us were aware of?

I remember absolutely nothing about the concerts we went to, all I remember was the vastness of Davies Symphony Hall, getting lost (twice), and all that glass.

Oh, how the great have fallen

2009-04-22T11:25:00.001-04:00

I really wish I could find someone to explain to me why it is that San Francisco feels this ever growing need to destroy and forget its past.

One of the most disturbing trends that has swept San Francisco in recent years is the snowballing closure of local single screen and small scale theaters. The Coronet, The Alexandria, The Metro, The Royal, The Alhambra...the list goes on and on.

These are the places we visited as children and again as young adults; it was where we got a glimpse at diversity and culture, while already growing up in one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. These landmarks were historic treasures built with craftsmanship and beauty. How and why did this happen?

Overdevelopment happened. People decided they needed BIGGER and BETTER...LOUDER and FLASHIER. In gaining these things we have lost pieces of our past, replaced by mega-gyms and parking lots. They really DID pave paradise....

Luckily, there are organizations that work to fight such abominations, such as the Friends of 1800.

But look on the bright side!!! Many of our classic theaters remain. At last glance, the list included the Presidio, the Marina a.k.a. Cinema 21, the Clay on Fillmore,the 4 Star on Clement (running Asian films now), the Red Vic on Haight, the Roxie on 16th, the Lumiere on Polk, the Empire on West Portal and a handful more. Get out and about in your neighborhood to see which ones are near you!

As far as historic movie houses go, only one true "palace" remains, and that is the one and only Castro Theater. This theater has been completely restored and kept so beautiful...the orchestra pit even still has a Wurlitzer organ which still plays pre-show (as far as I know)! I was lucky enough to see a few great films here such as Casablanca, Yellow Submarine, and one of the infamous midnight showings of the Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Please do your part to keep these important pieces of San Francisco history alive and thriving! Instead of heading to the Metreon this weekend with the masses, how about a cozy independent/foreign film at your local neighborhood movie house? Isn't that what being a San Franciscan is all about?

Here's to the ghosts of yesteryear. Cheers.

San Francisco Columbarium

2009-04-20T13:43:00.002-04:00

I had always wondered what this building was...and now I know!

The Columbarium of San Francisco is a repository for human ashes owned and operated by the Neptune Society of Northern California. Built in 1898 by architect Bernard J.S. Cahill, the Columbarium is a beautiful example of Neo-Classical architecture. The copper-domed Columbarium holds the remains of some of San Francisco's most prominent founding families, and memorials to such notable individuals as Harvey Milk. It is the only non-denominational burial place in the City of San Francisco with space available.

The Columbarium is at 1 Loraine Court, near the intersection of Stanyan and Anza Streets, just north of Golden Gate Park. It is open to the public.*

* File and photo courtesy of wikipedia.org

A mini monument moment...

2009-04-19T20:19:00.001-04:00

It is no surprise that the City by the Bay is full of many well known monuments...The Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, Washington Square Park, etc etc. But what about the ones that aren't so famous? Here's a few not-so-famous points of interest:

Lotta's Fountain

Lotta's fountain was dedicated in 1875 at the intersection of Market Street where Geary and Kearny Streets connect in downtown San Francisco, California.

The cast pillar with a drinking fountain at its base was donated to San Francisco by the entertainer Lotta Crabtree. It served as a meeting point during the 1906 earthquake and fire.

Commemorations of the earthquake, including a dwindling pool of survivors, are held every year at 5:12 a.m. on April 18th at the intersection.

In 1999, the fountain, which had suffered neglect in the past decades was totally refurbished to its 1875 appearance.*

Anton Szandor LaVey's infamous "Black House"

Many locals recall the eerie black house at 6114 California St. owned by the Church of Satan founder Anton LaVey. As a child, my mom would tell me stories of how she would pass him on the street while taking a walk with me in the stroller (we lived on 24th Ave) and crossing the street out of sheer fear because she would notice him coming towards her walking two full grown tigers down the sidewalk!! Can you blame her? Sadly, this curious S.F> landmark was demolished in October of 2001.

Stow Lake @ Golden Gate Park

This beautiful lake is nestled in the cozy confines of Golden Gate Park. I have wonderful memories of Wright's pink popcorn and my dad renting the motor boat, only for me to drive the damned thing right into the reeds. I can still hear him yelling at me...

But apparently Stow Lake isn't all fun and games. Legend has it that the statue which sits near Stow Lake titled "Pioneer Woman with Children" is incredibly haunted. The story goes that sometime in 1915, a mother drowned her young children. Some locals say that late at night, if you listen, you can still hear the children crying. NOw this is all merely heresay, but I know I have yet to venture out on the lake at night - alone.

If you'd rather enjoy the lake from home, this site offers a breathtaking 360 degree panoramic view of Stow Lake.

*Information provided by wikipedia.org

103rd Anniversary of the Great Quake of 1906

2009-04-18T17:46:00.001-04:00

Today, April 18th, is the anniversary of the Great San Francisco Quake. Back in 1906 at 5:12 a.m., a magnitude 8.5 earthquake struck the city. Incedible fires raged for two days, destroying much of city itself, from the Ferry Building all the way up to Van Ness Ave. Some people said they felt as if "Hell on Earth" had come to pass.

Locals wasted no time. It wasn't long before people banded together and started to rebuild - fast. The term "Phoenix rising from the ashes" is often used to describe San Francisco itself. It is a place full of strong willed, determined, unshakable people, and always has been. I have always been proud to call it home.

To read more about the Quake of 1906 please use the following links:

Virtual San Francisco Museum
U.S. Geological Society
Great Quake Eyewitnesses

Musee Mechanique

2009-04-17T20:28:00.000-04:00

Having been born in 1973, I just missed the forever famous Playland at the Beach. Only my brother, I believe, was lucky enough to have great Playland memories. As for me, I had to settle for trips to Ocean Beach and the always-a-treat lunch with my mom at the Cliff House. It was during one of these lunches that we discovered the basement goldmine. I was in heaven, jumping from toy to toy, almost all of them still fully operational at the time. I remember my mom, overjoyed and shocked at finding her favorite Playland memory: Laughing Sal. She would always tell us kids how no matter how many times she passed Sal, she always had her in tears, until she couldn't laugh anymore.

Ahhh, Musee Mechanique. For many years this mechanical wonder sat underneath the Cliff House in the basement. It was this mesmorizing collection of antique coin operated machines and leftovers from the now debunked Playland. Musee Mechanique was owned by Edward Zelinsky until his death in 2004.

Here's the story, in Mr. Zelinsky's own words:

“My collection consists of more than 300 items, ranging from orchestrations, coin operated pianos, antique slot machines, and animations, down to small bird boxes. Most of the items are displayed at the Musée Mécanique at Pier 45, although I keep some of the more fragile and collectible items in my home.

I started my collection when I was about 11 years old, and that’s a long time ago. I went to the Ellis Theater on Fillmore Street and during the intermission they had a Bingo game. My number was called and I ran on stage. They had a big wheel, I spun the wheel, and believe it or not, I won the grand prize! No, I didn’t win a slot machine or a music box; I won five quarts of motor oil. Well, as I was 11 years old and I didn’t have a car, I carried the five quarts of oil home and then sold the oil to my piano teacher for 75 cents. With the 75 cents in my pocket I rode the streetcar down to Golden Gate Avenue, an area where they sold slot machines and old jukeboxes. For 5 cents I bought a penny skill game that you put a penny in and get five balls and it goes around in a circle. I put pennies in it and taught my parents and my friends to do the same; it acted like a bank. I used the money I saved from the machine to buy more equipment and I visited that area many times over the years. One of my favorite purchases was a slot machine, which is now a collector’s item. At the time slot machines sold for $20-$25, sometimes less. I bought a Charles Fey Liberty Bell slot machine for $25 and sold it for what I then thought was the fantastic price of $200 (it is now worth between $25,000 and $30,000). But that’s the way of a collector-you should have done this and you should have done that.

When I returned from the service after World War II, I again visited Golden Gate Avenue. In the basement of one of the warehouses I found eight picture machines for $10 apiece, including delivery. These machines have been working ever since-first, for a penny. Then, later, I changed them to a nickel and they received the same amount of play. Later on, I changed them to a dime and the number of plays increased. Several years ago, I changed them to a quarter and the number of plays tripled.

In 1946, while learning the painting business, I visited a job in Oakland at the Mills Novelty Company. While I was there, I noticed a Seeburg piano with a xylophone and mandolin attachment. I inquired about it and asked if they would play it for me. As soon as it started playing, several of the mechanics gathered around and tried to make it play better. I asked the manager if it was for sale and he said he would love to get it out of his shop because it was costing the company too much money to have these men play around with the machine. I paid $200 for the piano and had it delivered to my home.

The machine hardly played, so I asked Sherman Clay Piano Company to come out and give me an estimate to repair it. They came out, admired the piano, and said they hadn’t seen one like it in years. But, they had no idea how long it would take them to fix it-or if they even could fix it-which they would do on a labor and materials basis. I called two other piano companies and received the same answer. I finally decided to fix it myself. I did not smoke at the time, but I blew cigarette smoke and then cigar smoke (which lasted longer) through the tubes to see where the smoke led. I finally got it playing, and it’s still playing today.

I seldom sell, but I love to trade. I did a lot of trading with George Whitney, Sr.; we traded music boxes and pianos back and forth. I made one trade with George Whitney that I will never forget. I had lunch with him every third Thursday and Mr. Whitney sat at the same table that he sat at for 20 years. I remember he had a scotch over ice, shrimp cocktail and a minute steak. I tried to copy him, but I couldn’t keep up with him on the drinks. Well, one time I had quite a few drinks, and I was feeling no pain and George said, “Ed, you have a 1904 Franklin, do you want to trade it?” And I said, “George, what will you give me for it?” Well, I don’t really remember the conversation, but I do remember shaking hands with him and Mr. Whitney telling me, “Ed, you are the proud owner of a steam motorcycle.”

Later, we had dinner again and he asked me who got the best deal in the trade. I said, “I don’t know, George, you tell me.” He said, “Ed, I got the best deal. I got a Franklin that’s running and you got a motorcycle that isn’t, and needs repair.” I told him, “That’s funny, George. I thought I got the best of the deal because I got the only steam motorcycle, perhaps, in the whole world.” He called me up a few weeks later and asked if I wanted to trade back again. That’s when I knew I had a good deal. The motorcycle was made about 1912 in Sacramento by a man named Gillingwater. It is still in working condition and is on display at the Musée Mécanique.

Recently, I received an unsolicited offer of $250,000 for the motorcycle. Now I know I really got the best deal!”

Musee Mechanique currently resides in it's temporary home at Pier 45/Fisherman's Wharf. It is still free of charge - and in need of a permanent home. My only hope is that this landmark is kept alive.

Please visit the Musee Mechanique here.

Get A-Long, Doggie Diner

2009-04-16T12:31:00.002-04:00

I have wonderful childhood memories of the Doggie Diner out by the beach. The site has long since been sold and was known as "Carousel" throughout most of my teenage years, yet the Doggie head remained. Then, in early 2000 hundreds of San Franciscans rallied to preserve the Doggie, as it was set to be demolished. A measure was put before the Board of Supervisors because apparently a local garden center wanted the property for a parking lot. You mean to tell me they couldn't scoot one parking place over to accommodate Mr. Doggie Diner??

What I find even sillier is how the supes were locked in such heated discussion regarding this obvious SF landmark, and how some of them even said labeling it a "landmark" would be lowering our standards....where do they find these people?

To me, there was no argument. How could you even consider destroying that symbol of summer beach days and childhood Playland frolic? He is PURE San Francisco.

Luckily, the doggie was eventually rescued, and moved (of course, as stupid as it sounds) to his new home at 45th Ave & Sloat Blvd. You can even find at RoadsideAmerica.com and the actual Doggie Diner website.

Going to San Francisco? Bring a bong...

2009-04-15T12:21:00.001-04:00

Well, it finally seems that City Hall had found a way to make money on the whole medical marijuana deal, so why NOT legalize it?? I mean, something is only worth doing when there is a profit to be turned, am I right?

I am appalled at the City's blatant lack of concern for those that have suffered way too long and had to self medicate illegaly. My only question is: What is taking so damned long??? When my brother struggled with HIV through the 1990s (before passing away in 2000) he grew his pot in secret, knowing it was the only way to numb the pain. It did a hell of a lot more than the 15+ different "legal" meds the doctors had him on. And we all wondered why he drank.....

So, it all comes down to the almighty dollar. The two most destructive substances, tobacco and alcohol, are the most legal, but everyone freaks out when a City Supervisor wants to make an already socially acceptable (not to mention 100% NATURAL)substance legal. But it took putting dollar signs in the eyes of legislators to make it so. It's the least this city can do. Geeze.

Wanna read more? Grab your stash and head to Pot for Sale, Get Your Pot Here!

Funny things, these fortune cookies...

2009-04-14T09:21:00.002-04:00

San Francisco has long been known as a city of innovation and ideas, but just how many things have traced back to the City by the Bay? Plenty, just check out these random inspirations:

The Mai Tai

Here is what Vic himself says regarding the birth of the Mai Tai:
"...I was at the service bar in my Oakland restaurant. I took down a bottle of 17-year-old rum. It was J. Wray Nephew from Jamaica; surprisingly golden in color, medium bodied, but with the rich pungent flavor particular to the Jamaican blends. The flavor of this great rum wasn't meant to be overpowered with heavy additions of fruit juices and flavorings. I took a fresh lime, added some orange curacao from Holland, a dash of Rock Candy Syrup, and a dollop of French Orgeat, for its subtle almond flavor. A generous amount of shaved ice and vigorous shaking by hand produced the marriage I was after. Half the lime shell went in for color ... I stuck in a branch of fresh mint and gave two of them to Ham and Carrie Guild, friends from Tahiti, who were there that night. Carrie took one sip and said, "Mai Tai - Roa Ae". In Tahitian this means "Out of This World - The Best". Well, that was that. I named the drink "Mai Tai".

read more here>

Denim Jeans

In 1853, the California gold rush was in full gear, and many items were in high demand. Levi Strauss, a young German immigrant, came to San Francisco from New York with a small supply of dry goods with the intention of opening a branch of his brother's New York dry goods business. Shortly after his arrival, a prospector wanted to know what Mr. Strauss was selling. When Strauss told him he had rough canvas to use for tents and wagon covers, the prospector said, "You should have brought pants!," saying he couldn't’t find a pair of pants strong enough to last. Hence, the blue denim jeans were born.

read more here

Chop Suey

It has been common wisdom to say that chop suey...did not exist in old China. The stir-fried hash was invented, according to tradition, in a San Francisco restaurant during the wee hours one morning when a rowdy group of holidaying diners would not hear of the Chinese cook's plea that he had no food. Rather than risk a drubbing, the cook concocted chop suey of the day's scraps.

read more here

The Fortune Cookie

Now here is one that seems to be up for debate. Many stories have circulated about the true origin of this tasty after dinner treat, including one that says a Chinese immigrant named David Jung invented them in Los Angeles in 1918. I don't really know for sure (no one seems to), but what I was always told was that the fortune cookie was invented in1914 by the designer of the Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park. He as in fact a Japanese immigrant by the name of Makoto Hagiwara.

read more here

I left my appetite in San Francisco.....

2009-04-13T10:52:00.001-04:00

DISCLAIMER: Please excuse the rather short post, but today is my lazy day, and I am being lazy.

Some of the best food I have ever had came from San Francisco.

Chino's Taqueria
3416 Balboa Street (at 35th Ave) San Francisco, CA
Open Daily 10:30 am - 10 pm
Order (415) 668-9956
***some of the freshest burritos I have ever had in my life (and they are HUGE! - everything HOMEMADE!***

Wayo Sushi Restaurant
1407 Van Ness Ave
San Francisco, CA 94109
(415) 474-8369
***one of the freshest, most affordable sushi joints in town - and the cozy atmosphere is sublime!***

Joe's Cable Car
4320 Mission St @ Silver Ave
San Francisco
Open 11am - 11pm 7 days a week

***All I can say is wow. Wow.***

Easter Sunrise Services on Mt. Davidson

2009-04-12T11:42:00.001-04:00

Special thanks to the official Mt. Davidson website for providing content for this article, you can find them here.

There are many monuments which grace the San Francisco skyline: Coit Tower, The Ferry Building, Sutro Tower, but there is one that often goes unnoticed, or unrecognized. I am talking of course of the 100-foot cross which sits atop Mount Davidson overlooking the city. This is the place where Easter Services at sunrise have been a tradition for almost 80 years.

The story behind this monument is an interesting one, as the cross was built and destroyed three times before Margaret May Morgan, the first woman to sit on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, and others on the Easter Sunrise Committee, solicited $1+ contributions to built the concrete cross in 1934.

In 1991, several organizations, including the Americans for separation of church and state, sued the City of San Francisco for owning a cross on city (public) land, and several court battles ensued. Eventually the courts forced the City to either tear down the Cross or sell it to a private entity. In 1997, Proposition F was put forth to the voters of San Francisco to allow the Council of Armenian American Organizations of Northern California to become the legal owner of the Mt. Davidson Cross and assume the responsibility for maintaining it. It was unanimously approved.

As for me, I recall my mother always wanted to take us kids to the Easter sunrise service, yet never quite being able to (I am not sure why). The only other memory I have of this monument is that it became the place in high school to hang out and do things that people probably shouldn't be doing at the foot of a 100-foot cross. As I look back now, I sort of wish we'd taken our drinking and smoking someplace else.

Hi Kids / Bye Kids!

2009-04-12T07:55:00.001-04:00

I found myself prowling through youtube the other night (I believe just about everyone is guilty of that nowadays) and found myself sitting face to face with some of the most memorable local commercials ever. I tip my hat to three UHF channels:

KBHK Channel 44 San Francisco
KOFY Channel 20 San Francisco
KICU Channel 36 San Jose

Each of these stations brought us the best and the worst in local tv pitchmen. Who doesn't remember Cal Worthington and his dog Spot, Pete Ellis Dodge, Don Young Ford (what a guy!), and the slew of carpet and furniture stores! Carpeteria, MMM Carpets, The Saw Mill (Marty Sherman and George) and below is one of the most memorable late night furniture salesmen, Ed Barbara of Furniture USA whose supposed "joke" commercial was never supposed to air, but it did, costing him his job, and I suspect much more:

But seriously folks, no list like this would be complete without our beloved "King of Credit", Mr. Jewelry himself, the most recognizable face of the 1980s...no, not the Shane Company, it's...

Paul from the Diamond Center, of course.

The Little Man in the Chair

2009-04-11T08:14:00.001-04:00

Here's an old favorite - the ever popular "Man in the Chair" which has always accompanied the movie/theater reviews in the Sunday Datebook. This little guy was the creation of artist Warren Goodrich sometime back in 1942.

On the Little Man’s 50th birthday in 1992, Goodrich recalled it was just another assignment that he sketched quickly, noting, “I’m surprised (it) continued." Goodrich, who died in 2007, once recalled that a woman (possibly a disgruntled actress) once hit him on the head with her umbrella and said, “I hate the Little Man!”

Here is what famed movie critic Roger Ebert had to say about this Bay Area icon:

"...The only rating system that makes any sense is the Little Man of the San Franciscio Chronicle, who is seen (1) jumping out of his seat and applauding wildly; (2) sitting up happily and applauding; (3) sitting attentively; (4) asleep in his seat; or (5) gone from his seat….The blessing of the Little Man system is that it offers a true middle position, like three on a five-star scale..."

I don't know about now, but years ago, the Datebook was printed on pink paper(years after the Chronicle stopped printing the Sporting Green on green paper back in the very early 1980s, remember that?), dubbing it the "pink section". On Sunday mornings in my house, I was the first to mangle my dad's paper by grabbing two things: the pink section and the funnies.

Here's to 50 more years of that little man hoping that in this eceonmy, he can still afford to go to the movies!

Thanks to sfgate.com and austinkleon.com for pics and info.

Kids' KTVU in the mornings

2009-04-10T10:39:00.001-04:00

Anyone growing up in the late 1970s/early 1980s in the Bay Area can't help but remember Pat McCormick and his puppets, Charlie & Humphrey. Thirty years later, I still find myself using the phrase, "Glue!! I need glue!!" Enjoy this treat from the vault; it should stir up a few memories:

And now...another Chronicle working stiff

2009-04-09T11:51:00.001-04:00

Scott Ostler

Few columnists have that true staying power, especially in this city. One of those that has stood the test of time is the Chronicle's own Scott Ostler. Ostler is currently a sports columnist, but years ago he wrote a weekday column that rivaled Jon Carroll to the "N"th degree. His witty writing and observations never failed to keep me laughing, even if I was sitting in the middle of a gang fight on the 14 Mission. I found the following column a good example of Scott's unique comic relief:

Cops protect S.F. From Sandwiches.

Column courtesy of sfgate.com archives:

Good Night, Cabbie

2009-04-08T20:16:00.001-04:00

Back in the late 1990's, The San Francisco Chronicle ran a weekly column on Mondays called The Night Cabbie. Does anyone else recall this great segment???

A local cab driver whom, to this day, I have yet to uncover his (or her!) identity, would dazzle us locals with tales of late night fares throughout the city. For some reason, I was always convinced this was a DeSoto cabbie, don't ask me why. Sometimes it was the ramblings of some homeless kid on Polk St; other times you'd hear tales of apathy and ignorance from wealthy tourists. They ranged from the hilarious to the bizarre, and you always got the feeling that this guy should have been a sociology professor at SF State, or at the least run some head shop on Haight.

His column ran until 2004, when he finally decided that struggling to make ends meet peddling cab fares was just not worth it, and he hung up his keys (and his pen) for good. It was a real loss - a real shame.

I enjoyed his stories because of his ability to tell it the way it was. I could almost imagine myself sitting in that back seat, watching these random, bizarre exchanges, wondering, "What is THAT guy's deal?"

About two or three times a year, although living out of state now, I still find myself googling "Night Cabbie" hoping to see him back in the drivers seat but alas, he has vanished from the cab scene it seems for good. He brought the realness of the city home - and he is greatly missed. I wonder if he ever googles himself, perhaps to see if anyone still remembers.....

Luckily, the online SF Chronicle keeps ALL his work archived on their site, so below I have posted a link to his final column, written shortly after Christmas of 2004.

You can find his last column here.

As you read it you truly understand why he gave it up and wonder how many other cab drivers out there are starving as well. You wonder why the city makes it so hard for these guys to make a living.

You are still missed, and not forgotten Night Cabbie. I hope that wherever you are today, that if the opportunity arises to make a little extra money driving looneys from the Fairmont to Big Al's on Broadway, you just might take it....

Remember when Scott Ostler wrote non-sports columns?? Tomorrow....

Link courtesy of SFgate.com and the SF Examiner/Chronicle.

Baghdad by the Bay

2009-04-08T19:36:00.001-04:00

I spent most of today arranging a rather busy collage, that once I posted it to my blog as a background, seemed just a tad too busy, so I am submitting it as a regular blogpost. Enjoy.

You can take the girl out of San Francisco but....

2009-04-08T11:28:00.002-04:00

Hello there and thank you so very much for taking the time to check out my blog. I am a transplanted native of San Francisco and have found that my love for this beautiful, unique city will surely never die. From my lovely home in Raleigh, North Carolina I find myself spending so much time either reading or reminiscing about my far away city by the Bay.

Since I realize that returning to the City is highly unlikely, though not impossible, I am very happy and content in my new life in the Southeast living with my long sought-after other half/best friend. Sometimes he isn't sure if I might run back to the Bay Area! No....so I decided the best thing to do was to start this blog about all things San Francisco as a way to not only channel my affection for the Bay Area, but also as a means to bring it to those who have never been, and never known, this one of a kind world.

I plan on sharing memories, stories, history, pics, and any bits of interesting pulp I happen to come across. My theory is that in doing so, my memories will remain intact and my knowledge of the City will grow, to a point where I can someday call myself a San Francisco historian.

Please enjoy this trip through MY foggy SF memories and feel free to post comments and/or stories as well. Peace and love to you all.