Halcyon Neighborhood Association

Saturday, April 28, 2007

HNA News: TODAY: Computer & electronic recycling Telegraph at Webster


* * * * * * * * * * * *
Halcyon Neighborhood Association E-Newsletter*
* * * * * * * * * * * *
Items appearing in the HNA E-Newsletter are deemed to be of general interest to neighbors but do not necessarily reflect the views of Halcyon Neighborhood Association (HNA), its Steering Committee, or the Editor. The Editor's introductory comments express her own personal viewpoint.
* * * * * * * * * * * *

Items in This E-Newsletter
1. Free Recycling of Computers & Electronics, NOW, Saturday, 4/28 until 2 p.m.

Editor's Introductory Note:
Sorry for the last-minute notice, but I only found out about this from seeing the big truck while I was out walking the dogs. It's a great opportunity to drop off electronics for recycling.

-Nancy Carleton, HNA Co-Chair and E-Newsletter Editor

* * * * * * * * * * * *
1. Free Recycling of Computers & Electronics, NOW, Saturday, 4/28 until 2 p.m.

E-Waste drop-off event sponsored by Whole Foods Market
Telegraph Avenue at Webster (at Alta Bates's Cardio Rehabilitation Center Parking Lot)
Saturday, April 28, now until 2 p.m.

Recycle your electronics (including TVs, computers, monitors, and other electronics; also batteries, cell phones, etc.). Today's pickup is free of charge to individuals due to sponsorship by Whole Foods Market.

Whole Foods will be sponsoring this event on a quarterly basis (hopefully next time we'll have more advance notice!).

www.ecycleenvironmental.com
info@ecycleenvironmental.com
510-839-5000
* * * * * * * * * * * *


Wednesday, April 25, 2007

HNA News: Free Retrofit Seminar Wednesday 6:30 p.m.; Parks & Rec Commission Approves Halcyon Rejuvenation Project! etc.


* * * * * * * * * * * *
Halcyon Neighborhood Association E-Newsletter*
* * * * * * * * * * * *
Items appearing in the HNA E-Newsletter are deemed to be of general interest to neighbors but do not necessarily reflect the views of Halcyon Neighborhood Association (HNA), its Steering Committee, or the Editor. The Editor's introductory comments express her own personal viewpoint.
* * * * * * * * * * * *

Items in This E-Newsletter
1. Free Seminar on Seismic Retrofitting, This Evening, April 25, 6:30-8:30 p.m., 2701 College
2. Disaster Prep Supply Cache Drill, Sunday, May 6, 4:30-6 p.m. (set-up 3 p.m.)
3. Halcyon Neighborhood Disaster Preparedness Plan for BIG Earthquakes (Draft)
4. Get Ready, Berkeley Day 2, Saturday, April 28, 10 a.m.: Volunteers Needed to Drop Disaster Prep Literature Door to Door
5. Sign Up Now to Participate in Huge Multi-Block Yard Sale, Saturday, June 9, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
6. Halcyon Rejuvenation Project Receives Parks & Rec Commission Approval; on to Civic Arts Commission Tonight!
7. Ashby Arts District Community Development Volunteer/Internship
8. Hidden Gems of Berkeley Bike Tour Sunday, May 20, 10 a.m. (starting at Halcyon Commons)

* For Your Calendar: HNA Dates Scheduled for 2007
* Disaster Prep Supply Cache Wish List
* City of Berkeley: Useful Contact Information

Editor's Introductory Note:

I am very pleased to report that after a slow start (is there something about April that makes people put everything off until the last possible moment?), we received 85 orders for disaster prep water barrels! Thanks to Dawn Rubin and LeConte Neighborhood Association for helping drum up interest in the final week. Susan Hunter and I have been tracking the orders, and Susan and Mark Foy did the original research to get a good price. Susan will be in touch with the folks with trucks who've volunteered to help with delivery (it will likely take a few weeks for the checks to clear, the order to be placed, and the the shipping to happen). If you didn't include an email with your order, it would be helpful if you could email by reply so we can keep you posted.

We'd like to work with other neighborhood groups to make ordering the water barrels a regular event, so if you missed out this time, keep reading the E-News to learn of future opportunities. As Samuel Hoffman of the Berkeley Fire Department said in an email to me: "Just to put the water issue into perspective, I spoke with one of the EBMUD engineers a few months back. I wanted to know about the condition and status of our city's reservoirs. He had advised me that they had just gone through a twelve-year seismic upgrade and are all in good shape. However, he further advised me that there is over five thousand miles of pipeway to deliver the water to customers. In the event of a 7.0 or greater quake on the Hayward Fault or an 8.0 on the San Andreas, they estimate over four thousand breaks in the system. In other words, yes, those barrels are a good investment!"

 And our neighborhood continues to move forward on the disaster preparedness front. This E-News contains a reminder of the free earthquake retrofit that neighbor Tory Finn has been helping organize (see Item 1) and announces an upcoming neighborhood disaster supply cache drill (see Item 2) and a draft of our Neighborhood Disaster Plan (see Item 3), as well as the City's Get Ready Berkeley Day coming up this Sunday (see Item 4). Also keep an eye on the Disaster Prep Supply Cache Wish List, which will be a regular placeholder in the E-News. Step by step, we can help motivate one another to keep making progress!

-Nancy Carleton, HNA Co-Chair and E-Newsletter Editor

* * * * * * * * * * * *
1. Free Seminar on Seismic Retrofitting, Wednesday, April 25, 6:30-8:30 p.m., 2701 College

Neighbor Tory Finn of Wheeler Street sent the following information about a free seminar on seismic retrofitting:

In a recent Contra Costa Times review, as many as 80% of all seismic retrofits failed to meet basic performance standards. In a much more exhaustive review, which is based on the examination of thousands of existing Berkeley retrofits, Bay Area Retrofit found that the percentage is closer to 95%.
 
To learn more about this troubling statistic and what to do about it, Bay Area Retrofit and Maison Nouveau will provide a unique, in-depth educational seminar or retrofitting in the Bay Area followed by an open question session.  Here's some topics that will be covered:
*  Translating structural reports into plain simple language.
*  An explanation of the foundation and retrofit problems identified in most reports.
*  Evaluating whether a foundation needs to be replaced or not and what to do with conflicting reports.
*  Everything you wanted to know about seismic retrofitting.
*  Recent changes to the Berkeley Transfer Tax Rebate Program.
 
When and Where
April 25, 2007, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Maison Nouveau: 2701 College Avenue (at Derby), Berkeley
Free and open to the public
 
To sign up for the seminar (helpful to us but not necessary) please go to: http://www.maisonnouveaurealty.com/seminars.html
 
To learn more about Bay Area Retrofit please visit: http://bayarearetrofit.com/
 
For more information about the event, call Maison Nouveau at 510-849-9900

* * * * * * * * * * * *
2. Disaster Prep Supply Cache Drill, Sunday, May 6, 4:30-6 p.m. (set-up 3 p.m.)

Date: Sunday, May 6, 4:30-6 p.m.
(come early at 3 p.m. if you're interested in helping to set up and create the drill)
Place: 3044-B Halcyon Court, end of driveway (where supply cache is located) and Halcyon Commons Park
Purpose: Inventory contents; practice using walkie-talkies; practice setting up Command Center; including generator and light; create and run through a drill using Incident Command System structure.
Who: All interested neighbors; you do not have to have prior disaster prep experience to participate (some people will even get to wear "Victim needing first aid" tags)!

This is a chance for our neighborhood to familiarize ourselves with the supplies in the disaster supply cache won by HNA based on an application submitted by HNA Co-Chair Nancy Carleton last year. The main benefit of the cache (which contains neighborhood response supplies, not personal disaster preparedness supplies) is not just the rescue equipment, first aid supplies, and communications tools it contains, which we'll be adding to over time (see the Wish List at the end of the E-News), but the quality of greater organization that it helps us achieve. If we're organized and have even the simplest of plans (see Item 3), we'll save more lives in the event of a catastrophic earthquake.

The Disaster Supply Cache doesn't belong to Nancy Carleton and Susan Hunter, though it's located in their driveway. It's there for all of us, and the drill is an opportunity for the larger community to take ownership of this valuable asset. Come on May 6 to be part of a fun, informal, improvised drill.

Special thanks to Neal Rubin for having set up the generator in advance of the drill - and to Susan Hunter for donating the gasoline.

* * * * * * * * * * * *
3. Halcyon Neighborhood Disaster Preparedness Plan for BIG Earthquakes (Draft)

A) Household Emergency Preparedness (follows basic City plan):
1. Make a Family Plan on how to evacuate and where to meet.
2. Choose a Long-Distance Contact for everyone in household to notify.

3. Collect Family Emergency Supplies to last Five to Ten Days.
(Include a minimum of 1 gallon of water per person per day, nonperishable foods, fire extinguisher, first aid kit, flashlight with extra batteries, tools, cash, medications, food for pets, etc.)

4. Prepare Your Home to Survive an Earthquake.
(Learn to turn off gas and water; secure hazards such as water heater and heavy furniture; retrofit foundation; etc.)

5. Know Your Neighbors and Organize Your Neighborhood (see B).
B) Halcyon Neighborhood Plan following BIG Quake:

1. Each individual to secure personal household.
(Check safety of family; turn off gas if appropriate - i.e., if there's a fire or danger of fire, or if gas is leaking as detected by smell or gas meter moving faster than usual.)

2. Before leaving, indicate that premises are clear.
 (Indicate that residents are safe & no one needs immediate help by marking front door of house or individual apartment with a GREEN piece of cloth or GREEN paper [color subject to change].)

3. Report to Halcyon Commons Park (Halcyon Court at Prince Street).
(Members of the Disaster Supply Cache Team will have opened Cache at end of driveway at 3044-B Halcyon Court.)

4. Follow steps outlined in Disaster Command Binder for setting up an Incident Command System (i.e., batteries in walkie-talkies,  set up Halcyon Command Center near picnic table in Halcyon Commons Park, etc.).
5. Using instructions in Binder, assign Incident Command System Teams:
  * Communications
        * Light Search & Rescue
* Disaster First Aid
    * Support
6. Send teams to check on vulnerable folks and to address immediate needs.
To suggest revisions to this Draft, please contact HNA Co-Chair and Disaster Supply Cache Coordinator Nancy Carleton at <ngc2@mindspring> or 644-0172.

* * * * * * * * * * * *
4. Get Ready Berkeley Day 2, Saturday, April 28, 10 a.m.: Volunteers Needed to Drop Disaster Prep Literature Door to Door

The following information was received from the City's Office of Emergency Services:

Saturday, April 28, 2007 is "Get Ready, Berkeley Day 2," and we need hundreds of volunteers to go door-to-door in City neighborhoods and share the information families need to get ready. How can you help?
 
Who: You and your friends and neighbors
What: Deliver important emergency preparation material door-to-door
When: Saturday, April 28 at 10:00 a.m. sharp
Where: Frances Albrier Community Center in San Pablo Park (2800 Park Street) in Berkeley

Back at Frances Albrier after the walk, the Berkeley Fire Fighters Association is treating all the volunteers to a great BBQ lunch.

To RSVP or get more information, contact Tanya Bustamante at <GetReadyBerkeley07@ci.berkeley.ca.us> or call her at (510) 981-5342. Thank you for being involved in your community. It's people like you who make Berkeley a special place to live.

* * * * * * * * * * * *
5. Sign Up Now to Participate in Huge Multi-Block Yard Sale, Saturday, June 9, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

HNA Multi-Block Yard Sale
Saturday, June 9, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
(set up by 9 a.m. recommended; when multiblock yard sales are advertised, dealers come early)

In years past, HNA sponsored several hugely successful multi-block yard sales. Several neighbors have said it's time to do it again! The date is set, but to move forward we need to have at least 20 households signed up in advance (so far, about a dozen have); based on hands raised at the Neighborhood Watch meeting and potluck, there are that many of you out there, so please follow through with your $5 sign-up check (see  below). The reward for early sign-ups is . . . the satisfaction of knowing you helped your neighbors who are working hard to organize this event on everyone's behalf.

* Sale will be advertised widely in locals newspapers and on the web, and we expect a huge turnout.

* Sign up now - $5 checks to HNA required to participate (goes toward ads and flyers). Mail your check (or drop off) to: HNA Treasurer Susan Hunter, 3044-A Halcyon Court, Berkeley, CA 94705. Or bring your check to HNA's Disaster Supply Cache Drill, Sunday, May 6, 4:30-6 p.m. (see Item 2).

* In addition to being a chance to clear out your closets and garages, this event is a fundraiser for the HNA Disaster Preparedness Fund; on the day of the event, HNA representatives will ask you to contribute 5-10% of your proceeds (or more, if you're feeling generous); all of these funds will go directly toward purchasing supplies for the Halcyon Disaster Supply Cache, which contains materials to support neighborhood-wide Disaster First Aid, Light Search & Rescue, and a Command Center in Halcyon Commons Park following a major disaster (if you wish your contribution to be tax-deductible, you can make your check payable to BPFP -  Berkeley Partners for Parks -  earmarked for Halcyon disaster prep).

* Volunteers are needed to help post flyers and to set up signs at major intersections on the day of the event. Volunteers will also be needed the evening of Friday, June 8 to make the big signs to post at major intersections. Please call or email Susan Hunter <suze208@earthlink.net> or 517-0241 if you're willing to help.

* * * * * * * * * * * *
6. Halcyon Rejuvenation Project Receives Parks & Rec Commission Approval; on to Civic Arts Commission Tonight!

Check out the bulletin board in Halcyon Commons Park (Halcyon Court at Prince Street) for site plans and conceptual sketches of the three elements that make up the Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Project, for which HNA received a UC Chancellor's Community Partnership Grant last summer! Implementation of the three elements will get underway soon, once the project has worked its way through the City process.

Following a presentation by HNA Co-Chairs Nancy Carleton and John Steere, the Parks and Recreation Commission Monday evening voted in favor of the following resolution: "The Parks & Recreation Commission recommends that the City Council accept the gift of the three elements of the 'Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Project' - (1) archway at north end of the park with the words HALCYON COMMONS and animal cutouts related to park history; (2) bronze-cast sculpture of halcyon bird (a kingfisher associated with peace), which was planned as part of the original park design; and (3) refurbishment of the south end of the park, including in-fill planting from park plant palette and placement of boulders and flagstone - with a waiver of any permit fees that would otherwise be charged. This gift is funded by the UC Chancellor's Community Partnership Fund and made possible by the generous contribution of 'sweat equity' and professional services on the part of community volunteers, with nonprofit Berkeley Partners for Parks serving as fiscal sponsor."

Tonight, the Civic Arts Commission will consider its recommendation regarding the two elements (1 and 2 from the Parks & Rec resolution) that involve artistic elements. John Steere will be making the presentation. Feel free to attend and support him:

Civic Arts Commission
Wednesday, April 25, 6:30 p.m. (John's presentation at 7:30 or 7:45)
North Berkeley Senior Center (MLK at Hearst)

* * * * * * * * * * * *
7. Ashby Arts District Community Development Volunteer/Internship

Vicky Liu of the Mayor's Office, who attended our Neighborhood Watch meeting, sent the following announcement:

The Ashby Arts District is a partnership between eight nonprofit organizations and performance venues in the South Berkeley/North Oakland/Lorin District area including La Peña Cultural Center, Epic Arts, The Shotgun Players at The Ashby Stage, The Black Repertory Group, Nomad Café, Northern California Land Trust, Unconditional Theatre, and the Triptych Gallery. Through collaborative events and programs, we are working to increase awareness of the arts in our neighborhood and to unify the communities we serve. For more information go to: http://www.epicarts.org/ashbyarts/

Position Description:
This position will put you in direct contact with local nonprofit, business leaders, and the South Berkeley Community. You will get the opportunity to get inside of the local community arts scene and work with the people who make it happen. The commitment is 10-20 flex hours per month depending on special events and projects. 3 months minimum commitment preferable. Flexible schedule to be determined.

Duties Include:
-- find and apply for grants
-- consolidate information for website & calendar
-- promote meeting participation
-- represent district at events
-- neighborhood outreach activities
-- gather information and surveys
-- ensure distribution of district calendars

Application Process:
To apply, please send a letter of interest with availability and or resume to internships@epicarts.org. For more details, contact Epic Arts: (510) 644-2204.

* * * * * * * * * * * *
8. Hidden Gems of Berkeley Bike Tour Sunday, May 20, 10 a.m. (starting at Halcyon Commons)
Hidden Gems of Berkeley
A Magical Mystery Bike Tour of South Berkeley's Vernacular Treasures
 
Sunday May 20, 2007
10 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Starting at Halcyon Commons Park (Halcyon Court at Prince Street)

This is the fifth year of an inspiring tour of Berkeley's eclectic fabric of gardens, paths, strange and familiar cultural and natural features. . . . This year we'll explore the many and marvelous hidden gems of South Berkeley and the Elmwood: from hidden paths to a stream running through a house, from a butterfly garden to the topiary squirrel, from the fish house to the alligator bench, and many more.  We'll encounter a vernacular side of Berkeley that most people never notice and reveal traces of the former streetcar system that shaped Berkeley's form. 

John Steere and guest historians/guides will conduct this 3-4 mile ride, which will be mostly level and include only minor inclines.  Bring a lunch, snack and water.  The ride will begin at a hidden gem - Halcyon Commons, a small neighborhood-built park - on Halcyon Court, beside Prince Street, one block west of Telegraph.   

A bioregional map of Berkeley depicting scores of these "gems" along with the City's community gardens, parks, creeks, and historic transit system will be available for sale. Historical photos and vignettes will also be included

This Ride is co-sponsored by the Bicycle Friendly Berkeley Coalitio (http://www.BFBC.org)  as a part of Berkeley Bike Month and by Berkeley Partners for Parks  (http://www.BPFP.org) and by Livable Berkeley (http://www.livableberkeley.org/).

* * * * * * * * * * * *
* For Your Calendar: HNA Dates Scheduled for 2007

Dates set as of April 2007 (verify a few weeks before event by checking HNA E-Newsletter):
Wednesday, April 25, 6:30 p.m. (presentation 7:30), Arts Commission meeeting with agenda item on Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Project, North Berkeley Senior Center
Sunday, May 6, 4:30-6 p.m., Supply Cache Drill, driveway of 3044-B Halcyon Court and Halcyon Commons Park
Sunday, June 3, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Work Party in Halcyon Commons Park
Saturday, June 9, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Giant Multi-Block Yard Sale, throughout the neighborhood
Sunday, June 24, 6-8 p.m., Halcyon Community Potluck, location TBD
Saturday, August 4, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Work Party in Halcyon Commons Park
Tuesday, August 7, 6-8:30 p.m., National Night Out Against Crime, Potluck in Park 6-7:30 p.m., walk through larger neighborhood 7:30-8:30 p.m.
Sunday, September 30, 4:30-5:55 p.m., Disaster Supply Cache Fire Drill, driveway of 3044-B Halcyon and Halcyon Commons Park
Sunday, September 30, 6-8 p.m., Halcyon Community Potluck, location TBD
Saturday, October 27, Fall Mulching in Park with help from Cal volunteers of Berkeley Project
Sunday, October 28, 4-6 p.m., Big Neighborhood Watch Community Meeting, Chochmat HaLev (to be confirmed)
Sunday, January 13, 2008, 5-8:30, Post-Holiday Progressive Potluck, four locations TBD

* * * * * * * * * * * *
* Disaster Prep Supply Cache Wish List

HNA's Disaster Prep Supply Cache contains items intended to benefit the entire neighborhood in the event of disaster. You can help us have what we need on hand in two ways: (1) Make a tax-deductible financial contribution to Berkeley Partners for Parks (BPFP, our nonprofit fiscal sponsor), earmarked Halcyon Disaster Prep, which will go toward purchasing additional supplies, and mail or drop off to HNA Treasurer Susan Hunter, 3044 Halcyon Court, Berkeley, CA 94705. (2) Contribute any of the following items in-kind (supplies MUST be new or in GOOD condition):

Batteries (AA, D), regular & rechargeable; Battery Recharger for AA, D; Quality Walkie-Talkies with 8-mile range, 22 channels (i.e., Motorola Talkabout T5500 two-way radios); Axes; Crow Bars, Hard Hats; Head Lamps; Heavy-duty Flashlights; Bullhorn; Laptop Computer with rechargeable power supply & USB port; Basic Printer (for producing flyers) with Ink Cartridges; Flashcard (for storing neighborhood database to transfer to laptop);  Sheets (freshly laundered or new; good for first aid); Blankets; First Aid Supplies; Gas Siphon (for extracting gas from cars to run generator); 5-Gallon Drums for long-term gas storage; Work Gloves; Large Camping Tents (with all parts!); Coleman or similar Gas or Propane Stove; Shelving for Shed.

Contact HNA Co-Chair and Cache Coordinator Nancy Carleton at <ngc2@mindspring.com> or 644-0172 to contribute supplies.

* * * * * * * * * * * *
* City of Berkeley: Useful Contact Information

Police

Police Emergency Number:  911 (from landline); 981-5911(from cell; preprogram with this number)
Police Nonemergency Number: 981-5900

Link to beat maps and a list of beat officers:
http://www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/police/department/beatinfo/beatlineup.html
In Halcyon neighborhood, west of Fulton is Beat 10, east of Fulton is Beat 9.

Other City Departments:

Neighborhood Services Liaison Jim Hynes <jhynes@ci.berkeley.ca.us> 981-2493

Public Works Customer Service: 644-6620 (streets, sidewalks, graffiti, sewers, litter, storm drains, street lights)

Tree Trimming/Planting (Forestry): 644-6566

Written Communication with City Council:

To comment to City Council, cut and paste the following email addresses:
City Clerk <clerk@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Mayor Tom Bates <Mayor@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Linda Maio <LMaio@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Darryl Moore <DMoore@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Max Anderson <MAnderson@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Dona Spring <DSpring@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Laurie Capitelli <LCapitelli@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Betty Olds <BOlds@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Kriss Worthington <KWorthington@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Gordon Wozniak <GWozniak@ci.berkeley.ca.us>

Representatives for Our Neighborhood:

Councilmember Max Anderson (District 3) 981-7130
West side of Wheeler Street to west (except for Woolsey between Wheeler and Shattuck)

Councilmember Kriss Worthington (District 7) 981-7170
East side of Wheeler to east (includes block of Woolsey from Wheeler to Shattuck)

Mayor Tom Bates 981-7100

Zoning Adjustments Board:

To comment to the Zoning Adjustments Board regarding projects on their calendar, email:
Zoning Adjustments Board <zab@ci.berkeley.ca.us>
(best to submit your comments 10 days prior to meeting for inclusion in the advance packet to board members, but late submissions will be distributed the evening of the meeting)

* * * * * * * * * * * *
The Halcyon Neighborhood Association E-Newsletter:  The HNA E-Newsletter forwards occasional crime-watch notices as well as items of general interest to neighbors in the Ashby/Telegraph/Woolsey/Adeline area of south Berkeley (HNA's borders), including announcements about community-building potlucks, greening projects, disaster preparedness meetings, and work parties in Halcyon Commons Park. If you're receiving this email, you probably either signed up at a neighborhood event or a neighbor forwarded it to you. Please note that to prevent spam, HNA always uses bcc and does not share your email address with third parties. If you wish to be removed from this list, please reply to HNA Co-Chair Nancy Carleton/Halcyon Neighborhood Association <ngc2@mindspring.com>. Feel free to pass the HNA E-Newsletter on to other neighbors you think might be interested.

To submit items for the newsletter:   Email unformatted content or links (no graphics or attachments) to HNA E-Newsletter Editor Nancy Carleton <ngc2@mindspring.com>. Crime-watch reports and news about neighbors is especially welcome. Please note that due to the volunteer nature of the endeavor, the E-Newsletter does not typically include "letters to the editor" or "commentary," but will gladly include links to such items written by neighbors in the Ashby/Telegraph/Woolsey/Adeline area and published elsewhere (the Berkeley Daily Planet has a large section devoted to opinion).

HNA Listserve:  If you would like to receive messages (and participate in discussions) on the HNA Listserve, please reply to Halcyon Neighborhood Association <ngc2@mindspring.com> indicating your interest, and you will receive an invitation to join. [The HNA Listserve is currently inactive but can be revived if enough neighbors show interest.]

HNA Blog:  If you would like to view previous newsletters online (and comment via a blog format, though this is a low-activity blog), please visit http://halcyoncourt.blogspot.com/

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Sunday, April 22, 2007

HNA News: Last Chance to Order Discount Water Barrel! & Crime Watch News


* * * * * * * * * * * *
Halcyon Neighborhood Association E-Newsletter*
* * * * * * * * * * * *
Items appearing in the HNA E-Newsletter are deemed to be of general interest to neighbors but do not necessarily reflect the views of Halcyon Neighborhood Association (HNA), its Steering Committee, or the Editor. The Editor's introductory comments express her own personal viewpoint.
* * * * * * * * * * * *

Items in This E-Newsletter
1. Order Your Disaster Prep 55-Gallon Water Barrel by Monday, April 23!
2. Crime Watch Report: Theft of Items from Porch & Drug Use on Webster Near Halcyon

* For Your Calendar: HNA Dates Scheduled for 2007
* Disaster Prep Supply Cache Wish List
* City of Berkeley: Useful Contact Information

Editor's Introductory Note:

A quick reminder that you still have today (Sunday) and tomorrow to order your discounted (by 36%) water barrel for disaster prep. If you've been meaning to get around to the next step in your disaster preparedness, this is an easy one. All you need to do is drop off a check by tomorrow, and  you will be better prepared to meet your water needs - more essential for life than anything except air - in the event of emergency.

As a reality check, recall Katrina. If we experience a catastrophic quake on the Hayward Fault anywhere near Berkeley, there will almost without doubt be an interruption in water service from EBMUD. It will take the federal government more time to respond than we'd like, and even when it does, do you really want to be waiting hours in line at a truck drop-off, only to get to the end of the line and find out they've just run out of water for the day?

-Nancy Carleton, HNA Co-Chair and E-Newsletter Editor

* * * * * * * * * * * *
1. Order Your Disaster Prep 55-Gallon Water Barrel by Monday, April 23!

[Editor's Note:  Susan is leaving some Water Barrel Order Forms on the front porch at 3044 Halcyon to make ordering easier.]

The City of Berkeley recommends that households store at least 1 gallon of water per resident for a minimum of five days (i.e., a household of four would need to store at least 20 gallons). Many of us who witnessed the slow governmental response to the Katrina disaster feel it's prudent to store supplies for at least 7 to 10 days, since we are likely to be on our own that long, and the EBMUD water delivery system may well be compromised. And many of us have pets and house plants that will need water too. 55-gallon barrels that can easily be stored in a corner outside allow an easy way to store plenty of water for your household's needs in the event of disaster. They require simple annual maintenance for best results (though you can also opt to purify your water when the time comes).

Neighbors Susan Hunter and Mark Foy have researched costs for 55-gallon heavy-duty blue plastic water barrels and manual pumps for disaster preparedness. Since we are placing a group order for 40 or more [now up to 50 orders!], we will receive a substantial discount (approximately 36%). You can order your barrel  by dropping off  a check by Monday,  April 23 (deadline extended from April 20).

The $58.08 cost covers a 55-gallon water barrel (discounted 36% to $31.95 from  $52.21 for orders over 40), a manual pump to allow access to the water (and to facilitate annual cleaning) ($12.00), and shipping costs ($14.95 per barrel) to a central location (Halcyon Court).

To Order (Orders needed by Friday, April 20):
Drop off your check or money order (too late for mail) for $58.08 made out to
Halcyon Neighborhood Association (or HNA), earmarked "water barrel" to:
[Add $5.00 to your check if you also wish to participate in the June 9 Multi-Block Yard Sale!]
Susan Hunter, Treasurer, HNA
3044-A Halcyon Court, Berkeley, CA 94705
(drop through mail slot in front door at 3044 Halcyon, between Prince and Webster a block to the west of Telegraph, across from Halcyon Commons Park)

Note: We have over 40 orders, so we'll definitely being moving ahead with the order. Please be sure to include your full address, email, and phone number with your order so we can keep you posted with follow-up information.

Ordering Multiple Barrels
Some families may decided they'd like to store more water. You can either order a pump with each barrel (in which case, simply multiply by $58.08), or you may want only one pump and multiple barrels (in which case, the first barrel/pump is $58.08, and subsequent barrels without pumps would be $46.08).

Attention: LeConte, Bateman, WIllard, and Lorin Neighbors: We are happy to include orders from nearby neighborhood groups in our group order; we are looking for a volunteer with a truck to help drop these orders off as well (date TBD).

Volunteers with Trucks Needed: The water barrels will be delivered to Halcyon Court. We need a neighbor with a truck (or, even better, a few neighbors with trucks) to deliver the barrels to individual addresses both within Halcyon Neighborhood's boundaries and to nearby neighborhoods. Some neighbors may also need help setting up their barrel.  To volunteer for both or either function, email Susan Hunter <suze208@earthlink.net>.

For More Information, contact:
Susan Hunter <suze208@earthlink.net> 517-0241
Nancy Carleton <ngc2@mindspring.com> 644-0172

* * * * * * * * * * * *
2. Crime Watch Report: Theft of Items from Porch & Drug Use on Webster and Halcyon and in front of Whole Foods

A neighbor on Webster near Halcyon reports:

"About 6:30 p.m. last Thursday evening, still very light out, two people were sitting on one of our garden walls smoking crack. I asked them to move along. I later saw them in front of Whole Foods. It seems like there is a more active contingent of drug users/dealers around our house and the Whole Foods area. We had a rug stolen off our front porch during last Saturday night. It was rolled up, under some other items, so it took a resourceful person to see it and get to it. Our porch light was on, but that didn't deter them.

I don't know if it is related, but the drug activity on this side, and in the front, of Whole Foods, has seemed to increase. Two of the guys that hang out on the side and ask for money, got into a BIG argument last night in front of  the house on Webster with a bench in front. Because this area, especially at night, is hidden and dark, people tend to hang out there. These guys saw me watching them and eventually moved up the street to argue. I have also seen drug purchases on the side of Whole Foods."

Last week a neighbor on Halcyon also reported seeing three people on the black metal bench in Halcyon Commons Park who seemed to be involved in drug use or sale. She called the Police nonemergency number, and an officer came by.

Editor's Note: Police representatives have always encouraged us to call whenever we suspect drug activity or notice other suspicious behavior. The nonemergency number is 981-5900 (emergency is 911 from a landline, 981-5911 from a cell. Do not hesitate to make reports of matters large and small, for that is how we can ensure frequent drive-throughs by the officers and help them track larger patterns in our neighborhood. This helps draw a boundary, particularly important to prevent drug dealers from selecting our neighborhood as their next hang-out.

* * * * * * * * * * * *
* For Your Calendar: HNA Dates Scheduled for 2007

Dates set as of April 2007 (verify a few weeks before event by checking HNA E-Newsletter):
Monday, April 23, 7 p.m., presentation at Parks & Recreation Commission meeting re Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Project, North Berkeley Senior Center
Wednesday, April 25, 6:30 p.m. (presentation 7:30), Arts Commission meeeting with agenda item on Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Project, North Berkeley Senior Center
Sunday, May 6, 4:30-6 p.m., Supply Cache Drill, driveway of 3044-B Halcyon Court and Halcyon Commons Park
Sunday, June 3, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Work Party in Halcyon Commons Park
Saturday, June 9, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Giant Multi-Block Yard Sale, throughout the neighborhood
Sunday, June 24, 6-8 p.m., Halcyon Community Potluck, location TBD
Saturday, August 4, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Work Party in Halcyon Commons Park
Tuesday, August 7, 6-8:30 p.m., National Night Out Against Crime, Potluck in Park 6-7:30 p.m., walk through larger neighborhood 7:30-8:30 p.m.
Sunday, September 30, 4:30-5:55 p.m., Disaster Supply Cache Fire Drill, driveway of 3044-B Halcyon and Halcyon Commons Park
Sunday, September 30, 6-8 p.m., Halcyon Community Potluck, location TBD
Saturday, October 27, Fall Mulching in Park with help from Cal volunteers of Berkeley Project
Sunday, October 28, 4-6 p.m., Big Neighborhood Watch Community Meeting, Chochmat HaLev (to be confirmed)
Sunday, January 13, 2008, 5-8:30, Post-Holiday Progressive Potluck, four locations TBD

* * * * * * * * * * * *
* Disaster Prep Supply Cache Wish List

HNA's Disaster Prep Supply Cache contains items intended to benefit the entire neighborhood in the event of disaster. You can help us have what we need on hand in two ways: (1) Make a tax-deductible financial contribution to Berkeley Partners for Parks (BPFP, our nonprofit fiscal sponsor), earmarked Halcyon Disaster Prep, which will go toward purchasing additional supplies, and mail or drop off to HNA Treasurer Susan Hunter, 3044 Halcyon Court, Berkeley, CA 94705. (2) Contribute any of the following items in-kind (supplies MUST be new or in GOOD condition):

Batteries (AA, D), regular & rechargeable; Battery Recharger for AA, D; Quality Walkie-Talkies with 8-mile range, 22 channels (i.e., Motorola Talkabout T5500 two-way radios); Axes; Crow Bars, Hard Hats; Head Lamps; Heavy-duty Flashlights; Bullhorn; Laptop Computer with rechargeable power supply & USB port; Basic Printer (for producing flyers) with Ink Cartridges; Flashcard (for storing neighborhood database to transfer to laptop);  Sheets (freshly laundered or new; good for first aid); Blankets; First Aid Supplies; Gas Siphon (for extracting gas from cars to run generator); 5-Gallon Drums for long-term gas storage; Work Gloves; Large Camping Tents (with all parts!); Coleman or similar Gas or Propane Stove; Shelving for Shed.

Contact HNA Co-Chair and Cache Coordinator Nancy Carleton at <ngc2@mindspring.com> or 644-0172 to contribute supplies.

* * * * * * * * * * * *
* City of Berkeley: Useful Contact Information

Police

Police Emergency Number:  911 (from landline); 981-5911(from cell; preprogram with this number)
Police Nonemergency Number: 981-5900

Link to beat maps and a list of beat officers:
http://www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/police/department/beatinfo/beatlineup.html
In Halcyon neighborhood, west of Fulton is Beat 10, east of Fulton is Beat 9.

Other City Departments:

Neighborhood Services Liaison Jim Hynes <jhynes@ci.berkeley.ca.us> 981-2493

Public Works Customer Service: 644-6620 (streets, sidewalks, graffiti, sewers, litter, storm drains, street lights)

Tree Trimming/Planting (Forestry): 644-6566

Written Communication with City Council:

To comment to City Council, cut and paste the following email addresses:
City Clerk <clerk@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Mayor Tom Bates <Mayor@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Linda Maio <LMaio@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Darryl Moore <DMoore@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Max Anderson <MAnderson@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Dona Spring <DSpring@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Laurie Capitelli <LCapitelli@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Betty Olds <BOlds@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Kriss Worthington <KWorthington@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Gordon Wozniak <GWozniak@ci.berkeley.ca.us>

Representatives for Our Neighborhood:

Councilmember Max Anderson (District 3) 981-7130
West side of Wheeler Street to west (except for Woolsey between Wheeler and Shattuck)

Councilmember Kriss Worthington (District 7) 981-7170
East side of Wheeler to east (includes block of Woolsey from Wheeler to Shattuck)

Mayor Tom Bates 981-7100

Zoning Adjustments Board:

To comment to the Zoning Adjustments Board regarding projects on their calendar, email:
Zoning Adjustments Board <zab@ci.berkeley.ca.us>
(best to submit your comments 10 days prior to meeting for inclusion in the advance packet to board members, but late submissions will be distributed the evening of the meeting)

* * * * * * * * * * * *
The Halcyon Neighborhood Association E-Newsletter:  The HNA E-Newsletter forwards occasional crime-watch notices as well as items of general interest to neighbors in the Ashby/Telegraph/Woolsey/Adeline area of south Berkeley (HNA's borders), including announcements about community-building potlucks, greening projects, disaster preparedness meetings, and work parties in Halcyon Commons Park. If you're receiving this email, you probably either signed up at a neighborhood event or a neighbor forwarded it to you. Please note that to prevent spam, HNA always uses bcc and does not share your email address with third parties. If you wish to be removed from this list, please reply to HNA Co-Chair Nancy Carleton/Halcyon Neighborhood Association <ngc2@mindspring.com>. Feel free to pass the HNA E-Newsletter on to other neighbors you think might be interested.

To submit items for the newsletter:   Email unformatted content or links (no graphics or attachments) to HNA E-Newsletter Editor Nancy Carleton <ngc2@mindspring.com>. Crime-watch reports and news about neighbors is especially welcome. Please note that due to the volunteer nature of the endeavor, the E-Newsletter does not typically include "letters to the editor" or "commentary," but will gladly include links to such items written by neighbors in the Ashby/Telegraph/Woolsey/Adeline area and published elsewhere (the Berkeley Daily Planet has a large section devoted to opinion).

HNA Listserve:  If you would like to receive messages (and participate in discussions) on the HNA Listserve, please reply to Halcyon Neighborhood Association <ngc2@mindspring.com> indicating your interest, and you will receive an invitation to join. [The HNA Listserve is currently inactive but can be revived if enough neighbors show interest.]

HNA Blog:  If you would like to view previous newsletters online (and comment via a blog format, though this is a low-activity blog), please visit http://halcyoncourt.blogspot.com/

* * * * * * * * * * * *



Tuesday, April 17, 2007

HNA News: Order Your 55-Gallon Water Barrel NOW! & Other News


* * * * * * * * * * * *
Halcyon Neighborhood Association E-Newsletter*
* * * * * * * * * * * *
Items appearing in the HNA E-Newsletter are deemed to be of general interest to neighbors but do not necessarily reflect the views of Halcyon Neighborhood Association (HNA), its Steering Committee, or the Editor. The Editor's introductory comments express her own personal viewpoint.
* * * * * * * * * * * *

Items in This E-Newsletter
1. Order Your Disaster Prep 55-Gallon Water Barrel by Monday, April 23!
2. Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Project on Parks & Recreation Commission Agenda, Monday, April 23, 7 p.m., North Berkeley Senior Center
3. Free Seminar on Seismic Retrofitting, Wednesday, April 25, 6:30-8:30 p.m., 2701 College
4. Get Ready, Berkeley Day 2, Saturday, April 28, 10 a.m.: Volunteers Needed to Drop Disaster Prep Literature Door to Door
5. Hidden Gems of Berkeley Bike Tour Sunday, May 20, 10 a.m. (starting at Halcyon Commons)
6. Sign Up Now to Participate in Huge Multi-Block Yard Sale, Saturday, June 9, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
7. Crime Watch Report: Suspicious Individual Hanging Out in Car on Halcyon and Webster
8. LeConte Neighborhood Association Meeting, Thursday, April 19, 7:30-9:00 p.m., LeConte School
9. Riane Eisler on "Creating a Caring Economy," Friday, May 11,  7-9:30 p.m., 1924 Cedar
10. Link to Chronicle Article on Upcoming Ed Roberts Campus at Ashby BART East
11. Shelving for Disaster Supply Cache Shed: Shelves or Contributions to Purchase Shelving Needed
12. Night-Time Safety "Dog" Walks: Sign Up to Learn about Upcoming Walks!
13. "Buy Local Berkeley" Party, Tuesday, May 1st, 5-7 p.m., 2801 Addison
 
* For Your Calendar: HNA Dates Scheduled for 2007
* Disaster Prep Supply Cache Wish List
* City of Berkeley: Useful Contact Information

Editor's Introductory Note:

Thanks to all who made Sunday's Neighborhood Watch meeting such a success by handing out flyers, making calls, and otherwise spreading the word. And a special thank-you to our good neighbor, Chochmat HaLev for letting us use their meeting space - and for the friendly Chochmat HaLev folks, Amielle and Shawn, who helped with setup and cleanup. Thanks as well  to firefighter Keir Rankin for the presentation on Disaster Prep and to Officer Bartalini and Sgt. Wilson from the Police Department, along with the other two officers who attended (whose names I unfortunately didn't write down). We also appreciated the presence of both our City Councilmembers, Kriss Worthington and Max Anderson; Vicky Liu from the Mayor's Office; and Jim Hynes from the City Manager's office. HNA Neighborhood Watch Coordinator Dawn Rubin did a great job facilitating the meeting and keeping us moving through a full agenda, and HNA Co-Chair John Steere, Treasurer Susan Hunter, and I also played major roles.

Special thanks to the more than seventy-five neighbors who took time out on a beautiful Sunday afternoon to find out how we can better prepare ourselves for big earthquakes and act together to prevent crime. It makes a difference when we show up - and hopefully each of us will be inspired to take at least one more step toward getting prepared for disaster. If you haven't yet arranged for a supply of water, don't miss out on the opportunity to get a 55-gallon water barrel at a good discount; we need at least a dozen more orders to get the discount we're seeking, so you'll help all of us by acting now. See Item 1 for information on how to order yours (deadline extended to next Monday, April 23). Also see the new feature in the E-Newsletter, which will be an ongoing placeholder "Disaster Prep Supply Cache Wish List" toward the end of the newsletter, which lists some ways you can help our neighborhood get better prepared.

And, finally, a warm welcome to those of you who are new to the E-Newsletter. Please remember to send in neighborhood news so we can keep one another informed!

-Nancy Carleton, HNA Co-Chair and E-Newsletter Editor

* * * * * * * * * * * *
1. Order Your Disaster Prep 55-Gallon Water Barrel by Monday, April 23!

[Editor's Note:  Susan is leaving some Water Barrel Order Forms on the front porch at 3044 Halcyon to make ordering easier.]

The City of Berkeley recommends that households store at least 1 gallon of water per resident for a minimum of five days (i.e., a household of four would need to store at least 20 gallons). Many of us who witnessed the slow governmental response to the Katrina disaster feel it's prudent to store supplies for at least 7 to 10 days, since we are likely to be on our own that long, and the EBMUD water delivery system may well be compromised. And many of us have pets and house plants that will need water too. 55-gallon barrels that can easily be stored in a corner outside allow an easy way to store plenty of water for your household's needs in the event of disaster. They require simple annual maintenance for best results (though you can also opt to purify your water when the time comes).

Neighbors Susan Hunter and Mark Foy have researched costs for 55-gallon heavy-duty blue plastic water barrels and manual pumps for disaster preparedness. If we place a group order for 40 or more, we will receive a substantial discount (approximately 36%). You can order your barrel  by dropping off or mailing a check by Monday,  April 23 (deadline extended from April 20). Moving forward with this project this spring requires an order of 40 or more barrels.

The $58.08 cost covers a 55-gallon water barrel (discounted to $31.95 from  $52.21 for orders over 40), a manual pump to allow access to the water (and to facilitate annual cleaning) ($12.00), and shipping costs ($14.95 per barrel) to a central location (Halcyon Court).

To Order (Orders needed by Friday, April 20):
Send your check or money order for $58.08 made out to Halcyon Neighborhood Association (or HNA), earmarked "water barrel" to:
Susan Hunter, Treasurer, HNA
3044-A Halcyon Court
Berkeley, CA 94705
(or drop through mail slot in front door at 3044 Halcyon across from Halcyon Commons Park)
Note: Checks will not be deposited until 40 orders have been received; if we don't get 40 orders, the cost of each barrel will go up, and we will have to reevaluate our plans. Please be sure to include your full address, email, and phone number with your order for follow-up.

Ordering Multiple Barrels
Some families may decided they'd like to store more water. You can either order a pump with each barrel (in which case, simply multiply by $58.08), or you may want only one pump and multiple barrels (in which case, the first barrel/pump is $58.08, and subsequent barrels without pumps would be $46.08).

Attention: LeConte, Bateman, WIllard, and Lorin Neighbors: We are happy to include orders from nearby neighborhood groups in our group order; we are looking for a volunteer with a truck to help drop these orders off as well (date TBD).

Volunteers with Trucks Needed: The water barrels will be delivered to Halcyon Court. We need a neighbor with a truck (or, even better, a few neighbors with trucks) to deliver the barrels to individual addresses both within Halcyon Neighborhood's boundaries and to nearby neighborhoods. Some neighbors may also need help setting up their barrel.  To volunteer for both or either function, email Susan Hunter <suze208@earthlink.net>.

For More Information, contact:
Susan Hunter <suze208@earthlink.net> 517-0241

* * * * * * * * * * * *
2. Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Project on Parks & Recreation Commission Agenda, Monday, April 23, 7 p.m., North Berkeley Senior Center

Check out the bulletin board in Halcyon Commons Park (Halcyon Court at Prince Street) for site plans and conceptual sketches of the three elements that make up the Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Project, for which HNA received a UC Chancellor's Community Partnership Grant last summer!

Following two community design workshops, we've been moving forward with plans to present to the Parks & Recreation Commission on Monday, April 23, concerning details for the three items included in HNA's successful grant application to the UC Chancellor's Community Partnership Fund. The Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Project includes an Animal Cutout Entryway Arbor at the north end of park, refurbishment of southern end of  the park with in-fill planting and addition of boulders, and a Halcyon Bird Sculpture. Neighbor and landscape architect Michael Lamb has drawn up site plans, and the craftspeople involved have submitted sketches (see the bulletin board). These plans reflect input received at two community workshops last year. If you'd like to come support HNA Co-Chairs Nancy Carleton and John Steere as they make the presentation to the commission, please contact Nancy <ngc2@mindspring.com> or John <<jsteere@igc.org>.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION (from the Grant Application): The Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Project brings three new elements to this neighborhood-designed park in South Berkeley: (A) a gateway at the north end with the words HALCYON COMMONS and animal cutouts related to park history;  (B) a bronze-cast sculpture of a halcyon bird (a kingfisher associated with peace); and (C) a refurbishment of the southern end of the park - all with community design input. Because of the significant contribution of professional and artistic skills and volunteer labor, the grant funds go directly toward implementation, helping to build community as well as adding beautiful new features to this unique neighborhood commons.

* * * * * * * * * * * *
3. Free Seminar on Seismic Retrofitting, Wednesday, April 25, 6:30-8:30 p.m., 2701 College

Neighbor Tory Finn of Wheeler Street sent the following information about a free seminar on seismic retrofitting:

In a recent Contra Costa Times review, as many as 80% of all seismic retrofits failed to meet basic performance standards. In a much more exhaustive review, which is based on the examination of thousands of existing Berkeley retrofits, Bay Area Retrofit found that the percentage is closer to 95%.
 
To learn more about this troubling statistic and what to do about it, Bay Area Retrofit and Maison Nouveau will provide a unique, in-depth educational seminar or retrofitting in the Bay Area followed by an open question session.  Here's some topics that will be covered:
*  Translating structural reports into plain simple language.
*  An explanation of the foundation and retrofit problems identified in most reports.
*  Evaluating whether a foundation needs to be replaced or not and what to do with conflicting reports.
*  Everything you wanted to know about seismic retrofitting.
*  Recent changes to the Berkeley Transfer Tax Rebate Program.
 
When and Where
April 25, 2007, 6:30 p.m.
Maison Nouveau: 2701 College Avenue (at Derby), Berkeley
Free and open to the public
 
To sign up for the seminar (helpful to us but not necessary) please go to: http://www.maisonnouveaurealty.com/seminars.html
 
To learn more about Bay Area Retrofit please visit: http://bayarearetrofit.com/
 
For more information about the event, call Maison Nouveau at 510-849-9900

* * * * * * * * * * * *
4. Get Ready, Berkeley Day 2, Saturday, April 28, 10 a.m.: Volunteers Needed to Drop Disaster Prep Literature Door to Door

The following information was received from the City's Office of Emergency Services:

Saturday, April 28, 2007 is "Get Ready, Berkeley Day 2," and we need hundreds of volunteers to go door-to-door in City neighborhoods and share the information families need to get ready. How can you help?
 
Who: You and your friends and neighbors
What: Deliver important emergency preparation material door-to-door
When: Saturday, April 28 at 10:00 a.m. sharp
Where: Frances Albrier Community Center in San Pablo Park (2800 Park Street) in Berkeley

Back at Frances Albrier after the walk, the Berkeley Fire Fighters Association is treating all the volunteers to a great BBQ lunch.

To RSVP or get more information, contact Tanya Bustamante at <GetReadyBerkeley07@ci.berkeley.ca.us> or call her at (510) 981-5342. Thank you for being involved in your community. It's people like you who make Berkeley a special place to live.

* * * * * * * * * * * *
5. Hidden Gems of Berkeley Bike Tour Sunday, May 20, 10 a.m. (starting at Halcyon Commons)

Hidden Gems of Berkeley
A Magical Mystery Bike Tour of South Berkeley's Vernacular Treasures
 
Sunday May 20, 2007
10 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Starting at Halcyon Commons Park (Halcyon Court at Prince Street)

This is the fifth year of an inspiring tour of Berkeley's eclectic fabric of gardens, paths, strange and familiar cultural and natural features. . . . This year we'll explore the many and marvelous hidden gems of South Berkeley and the Elmwood: from hidden paths to a stream running through a house, from a butterfly garden to the topiary squirrel, from the fish house to the alligator bench, and many more.  We'll encounter a vernacular side of Berkeley that most people never notice and reveal traces of the former streetcar system that shaped Berkeley's form. 

John Steere and guest historians/guides will conduct this 3-4 mile ride, which will be mostly level and include only minor inclines.  Bring a lunch, snack and water.  The ride will begin at a hidden gem - Halcyon Commons, a small neighborhood-built park - on Halcyon Court, beside Prince Street, one block west of Telegraph.   

A bioregional map of Berkeley depicting scores of these "gems" along with the City's community gardens, parks, creeks, and historic transit system will be available for sale. Historical photos and vignettes will also be included

This Ride is co-sponsored by the Bicycle Friendly Berkeley Coalitio (http://www.BFBC.org)  as a part of Berkeley Bike Month and by Berkeley Partners for Parks  (http://www.BPFP.org) and by Livable Berkeley (http://www.livableberkeley.org/).

* * * * * * * * * * * *
6. Sign Up Now to Participate in Huge Multi-Block Yard Sale, Saturday, June 9, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

In years past, HNA sponsored several hugely successful multi-block yard sales. Several neighbors have said it's time to do it again! The date is set, presuming enough households sign up in advance (we will only move forward if at least 18-20 households wish to participate, so please sign up now):

HNA Multi-Block Yard Sale
Saturday, June 9, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
(set up by 9 a.m. recommended; when multiblock yard sales are advertised, dealers come early)

* Sale will be advertised widely in locals newspapers and on the web, and we expect a huge turnout.

* Sign up now - $5 checks to HNA required to participate (goes toward ads and flyers). Mail your check (or drop off) to: HNA Treasurer Susan Hunter, 3044 Halcyon Court, Berkeley, CA 94705.

* In addition to being a chance to clear out your closets and garages, this event is a fundraiser for the HNA Disaster Preparedness Fund; on the day of the event, HNA representatives will ask you to contribute 5-10% of your proceeds (or more, if you're feeling generous); all of these funds will go directly toward purchasing supplies for the Halcyon Disaster Supply Cache, which contains materials to support neighborhood-wide Disaster First Aid, Light Search & Rescue, and a Command Center in Halcyon Commons Park following a major disaster (if you wish your contribution to be tax-deductible, you can make your check payable to BPFP -  Berkeley Partners for Parks -  earmarked for Halcyon disaster prep).

* Volunteers are needed to help post flyers and to set up signs at major intersections on the day of the event. Volunteers will also be needed the evening of Friday, June 8 to make the big signs to post at major intersections. Please call or email Susan Hunter <suze208@earthlink.net> or 517-0241 if you're willing to help.

* * * * * * * * * * * *
7. Crime Watch Report: Suspicious Individual Hanging Out in Car on Halcyon and Webster

A Webster Street neighbor reports:

"I have noticed that an older man parks his car in our neighborhood regularly but fails to leave his vehicle - he just sits there.  He
usually parks on Halcyon Court near the corner of Webster, but today he parked on Webster itself. I have witnessed him drink beer in his car, and it weirds me out that he has nowhere to go and just watches our neighborhood.  He is an older white male in his fifties (or older) and drives a white Toyota truck with a white camper shell (not to be confused with another white truck that parks in our area that is minus the shell). The truck is a king cab (newer fairly large truck - either Tacoma or Tundra).  I generally see him around 5:00 to 6:00 p.m.  He does not stay for more than a half an hour. He has been around for the last few months.  Let me know if you see him or see any suspicious activity.  I should have called the anonymous tip line when, he was drinking but did not have the nerve."

[Editor's Note: At the Neighborhood Watch meeting this past Sunday, our beat officers again encouraged us to call for them to drive by when we feel suspicious or have a gut feeling about someone or something. They will come by as soon as they're able and check it out in a nonconfrontational manner. You do not have to give your name when you call to make the report. If it's an emergency, call 911 from a landline, 981-5911 from a cell (preprogram your cell to this number). For nonemergencies, call 981-5900 from any phone).]

* * * * * * * * * * * *
8. LeConte Neighborhood Association Meeting, Thursday, April 19, 7:30-9:00 p.m., LeConte School

[Editor's Note: The southern reaches of LNA's traditional territory includes the area also covered by Halcyon Neighborhood Association, and our groups have a history of working together.]

The LeConte Neighborhood Association will meet Thursday, April 19 from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at the LeConte School. (Enter from Russell Street.) Our agenda will include a discussion of plans to improve People's Park, business changes on Telegraph Avenue, new police procedures re: loud parties with an emphasis on the responsibilities of the "host." We will also review recent crime and emergency preparedness. Residents are welcome to submit agenda items and/or announcements.

[Editor's Note: HNA has sent over some order forms for our 55-gallon disaster prep water barrels to give LeConte Neighborhood Association members a chance to order them too. If interested, bring your checkbook to the meeting;  see Item 1 of this newsletter for more information about the barrels.]

Karl Reeh, <karlreeh@aol.com>
President, LeConte Neighborhood Association
510 843-2602

To join LeConte Chat go to:

* * * * * * * * * * * *
9. Riane Eisler on "Creating a Caring Economy," Friday, May 11,  7-9:30 p.m., 1924 Cedar

A Wheeler Street neighbor passes on the following announcement of an event she's involved with:

Riane Eisler, author of The Chalice and the Blade, The Power of Partnership, and The Real Wealth of Nations
"CREATING A CARING ECONOMY'
Friday, May 11,  7- 9:30 p.m.
Fellowship hall, 1924 Cedar at Bonita
Berkeley, CA 94709
Wheelchair Accessible
(By public transit,on Shattuck take #43 on Shattuck to Cedar. On Cedar walk downhill toward Bonita; on the left you will see the large building.)  
Sponsored by the Social Justice Committee, Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists
Donation $10- $30
Reservations at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/13655

* * * * * * * * * * * *
10. Link to Chronicle Article on Upcoming Ed Roberts Campus at Ashby BART East

"Unparalleled Accessibility at New Center for Disabled"
http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2007/04/16/BAGQAP98KH1.DTL

* * * * * * * * * * * *
11. Shelving for Disaster Supply Cache Shed: Shelves or Contributions to Purchase Shelving Needed

Neighbor Neal Rubin of Wheeler Street has graciously been helping us get our Disaster Supply Cache in working order (thanks, Neal, for getting the generator going -- with thanks as well to Susan Hunter, who purchased the gasoline for it).

Now we've asked Neal to donate his carpentry expertise to install some shelving so we can keep the supplies in better, more accessible order (no need for further chaos in the face of an emergency). Buying new shelving will be expensive (approximately $250). We either need an angel donor willing to fund the purchase of new metal shelving, or perhaps there's a neighbor out there who has some unused shelving stored in a basement or garage. If you have some unused shelving you think might work, please contact Neal at <FamilyRubin@comcast.net>, and he'll check it out. We hope to get the shelving installed before our May 6th Disaster Supply Cache Drill, so don't delay!

If you're willing to make a financial contribution (tax-deductible through our nonprofit fiscal sponsor Berkeley Partners for Parks) toward the shelving and/or other additional supplies for HNA's neighborhood Disaster Supply Cache, please contact Cache Coordinator (and HNA Co-Chair) Nancy Carleton at <ngc2@mindspring.com>, or mail your contribution to HNA Treasurer Susan Hunter, 3044 Halcyon Court, Berkeley, CA 94705. Also see the ongoing placeholder in the E-Newsletter "Disaster Prep Supply Cache Wish List" to find about in-kind donation needs.

* * * * * * * * * * * *
12. Night-Time Safety "Dog" Walks: Sign Up to Learn about Upcoming Walks!

It's spring, and the weather's getting warmer - nicer for evening walks and outdoor activities of all kinds. Unfortunately, as beat officers attending April 15's Neighborhood Watch meeting mentioned, the warmer weather of late spring, summer, and fall often also signals an upswing in crime. So it's a good time for us to be strengthening our crime-watch efforts. And neighbor Pamela Dameron, who initiated Halcyon Neighborhood Association's Night-Time Safety "Dog" Walks, is willing to get us back on track with more walks. Remember, you don't have to have a dog to participate, just a willingness to meet with at least a couple of your neighbors (and one or two or more dogs) and walk through the neighborhood at nights.

To get on the list to receive emails about scheduled and impromptu walks, contact Pamela Dameron <usasleigh@sbcglobal.net>. (Remember: No dog required to participate!)

* * * * * * * * * * * *
13. "Buy Local Berkeley" Party, Tuesday, May 1st, 5-7 p.m., 2801 Addison

"Buy Local Berkeley" Party
Tuesday, May 1st, 5-7 p.m.
Aurora Theatre, 2081 Addison Street (between Shattuck and Milvia)

Hello Berkeley Community,

Thanks for your enthusiastic response to our request for your vote on a name for Berkeley's "Local" Campaign. We now have a lot of great ideas, and see that there is tremendous support in Berkeley for this type of campaign.

Now, we're having a party to continue the conversation. Please stop by to add to our "Local Berkeley Storybook" by telling us your favorite locally owned business or favorite place in Berkeley.

Refreshments and appetizers will be provided.
Please RSVP to info@downtownberkeley.org by Friday, April 27th.
Thanks to the Aurora Theatre for donating their venue for this event.

* * * * * * * * * * * *
* For Your Calendar: HNA Dates Scheduled for 2007

Dates set as of April 2007 (verify a few weeks before event by checking HNA E-Newsletter):
Monday, April 23, 7 p.m., presentation at Parks & Recreation Commission meeting re Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Project, North Berkeley Senior Center
Sunday, May 6, 4:30-6 p.m., Supply Cache Drill, driveway of 3044-B Halcyon Court and Halcyon Commons Park
Sunday, June 3, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Work Party in Halcyon Commons Park
Saturday, June 9, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Giant Multi-Block Yard Sale, throughout the neighborhood
Sunday, June 24, 6-8 p.m., Halcyon Community Potluck, location TBD
Saturday, August 4, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Work Party in Halcyon Commons Park
Tuesday, August 7, 6-8:30 p.m., National Night Out Against Crime, Potluck in Park 6-7:30 p.m., walk through larger neighborhood 7:30-8:30 p.m.
Sunday, September 30, 4:30-5:55 p.m., Disaster Supply Cache Fire Drill, driveway of 3044-B Halcyon and Halcyon Commons Park
Sunday, September 30, 6-8 p.m., Halcyon Community Potluck, location TBD
Saturday, October 27, Fall Mulching in Park with help from Cal volunteers of Berkeley Project
Sunday, October 28, 4-6 p.m., Big Neighborhood Watch Community Meeting, Chochmat HaLev (to be confirmed)
Sunday, January 13, 2008, 5-8:30, Post-Holiday Progressive Potluck, four locations TBD

* * * * * * * * * * * *
* Disaster Prep Supply Cache Wish List

HNA's Disaster Prep Supply Cache contains items intended to benefit the entire neighborhood in the event of disaster. You can help us have what we need on hand in two ways: (1) Make a tax-deductible financial contribution to Berkeley Partners for Parks (BPFP, our nonprofit fiscal sponsor), earmarked Halcyon Disaster Prep, which will go toward purchasing additional supplies, and mail or drop off to HNA Treasurer Susan Hunter, 3044 Halcyon Court, Berkeley, CA 94705. (2) Contribute any of the following items in-kind (supplies MUST be new or in GOOD condition):

Batteries (AA, D), regular & rechargeable; Battery Recharger for AA, D; Quality Walkie-Talkies with 8-mile range, 22 channels (i.e., Motorola Talkabout T5500 two-way radios); Axes; Crow Bars, Hard Hats; Head Lamps; Heavy-duty Flashlights; Bullhorn; Laptop Computer with rechargeable power supply & USB port; Basic Printer (for producing flyers) with Ink Cartridges; Flashcard (for storing neighborhood database to transfer to laptop);  Sheets (freshly laundered or new; good for first aid); Blankets; First Aid Supplies; Gas Siphon (for extracting gas from cars to run generator); 5-Gallon Drums for long-term gas storage; Work Gloves; Large Camping Tents (with all parts!); Coleman or similar Gas or Propane Stove; Shelving for Shed.

Contact HNA Co-Chair and Cache Coordinator Nancy Carleton at <ngc2@mindspring.com> or 644-0172 to contribute supplies.

* * * * * * * * * * * *
* City of Berkeley: Useful Contact Information

Police

Police Emergency Number:  911 (from landline); 981-5911(from cell; preprogram with this number)
Police Nonemergency Number: 981-5900

Link to beat maps and a list of beat officers:
http://www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/police/department/beatinfo/beatlineup.html
In Halcyon neighborhood, west of Fulton is Beat 10, east of Fulton is Beat 9.

Other City Departments:

Neighborhood Services Liaison Jim Hynes <jhynes@ci.berkeley.ca.us> 981-2493

Public Works Customer Service: 644-6620 (streets, sidewalks, graffiti, sewers, litter, storm drains, street lights)

Tree Trimming/Planting (Forestry): 644-6566

Written Communication with City Council:

To comment to City Council, cut and paste the following email addresses:
City Clerk <clerk@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Mayor Tom Bates <Mayor@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Linda Maio <LMaio@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Darryl Moore <DMoore@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Max Anderson <MAnderson@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Dona Spring <DSpring@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Laurie Capitelli <LCapitelli@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Betty Olds <BOlds@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Kriss Worthington <KWorthington@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,
Councilmember Gordon Wozniak <GWozniak@ci.berkeley.ca.us>

Representatives for Our Neighborhood:

Councilmember Max Anderson (District 3) 981-7130
West side of Wheeler Street to west (except for Woolsey between Wheeler and Shattuck)

Councilmember Kriss Worthington (District 7) 981-7170
East side of Wheeler to east (includes block of Woolsey from Wheeler to Shattuck)

Mayor Tom Bates 981-7100

Zoning Adjustments Board:

To comment to the Zoning Adjustments Board regarding projects on their calendar, email:
Zoning Adjustments Board <zab@ci.berkeley.ca.us>
(best to submit your comments 10 days prior to meeting for inclusion in the advance packet to board members, but late submissions will be distributed the evening of the meeting)

* * * * * * * * * * * *
The Halcyon Neighborhood Association E-Newsletter:  The HNA E-Newsletter forwards occasional crime-watch notices as well as items of general interest to neighbors in the Ashby/Telegraph/Woolsey/Adeline area of south Berkeley (HNA's borders), including announcements about community-building potlucks, greening projects, disaster preparedness meetings, and work parties in Halcyon Commons Park. If you're receiving this email, you probably either signed up at a neighborhood event or a neighbor forwarded it to you. Please note that to prevent spam, HNA always uses bcc and does not share your email address with third parties. If you wish to be removed from this list, please reply to HNA Co-Chair Nancy Carleton/Halcyon Neighborhood Association <ngc2@mindspring.com>. Feel free to pass the HNA E-Newsletter on to other neighbors you think might be interested.

To submit items for the newsletter:   Email unformatted content or links (no graphics or attachments) to HNA E-Newsletter Editor Nancy Carleton <ngc2@mindspring.com>. Crime-watch reports and news about neighbors is especially welcome. Please note that due to the volunteer nature of the endeavor, the E-Newsletter does not typically include "letters to the editor" or "commentary," but will gladly include links to such items written by neighbors in the Ashby/Telegraph/Woolsey/Adeline area and published elsewhere (the Berkeley Daily Planet has a large section devoted to opinion).

HNA Listserve:  If you would like to receive messages (and participate in discussions) on the HNA Listserve, please reply to Halcyon Neighborhood Association <ngc2@mindspring.com> indicating your interest, and you will receive an invitation to join. [The HNA Listserve is currently inactive but can be revived if enough neighbors show interest.]

HNA Blog:  If you would like to view previous newsletters online (and comment via a blog format, though this is a low-activity blog), please visit http://halcyoncourt.blogspot.com/

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Friday, April 13, 2007

HNA News: IMPORTANT meeting Sunday 4/15, 4-6 & other reminders


* * * * * * * * * * * *
Halcyon Neighborhood Association E-Newsletter*
* * * * * * * * * * * *
Items appearing in the HNA E-Newsletter are deemed to be of general interest to neighbors but do not necessarily reflect the views of Halcyon Neighborhood Association (HNA), its Steering Committee, or the Editor. The Editor's introductory comments express her own personal viewpoint.
 * * * * * * * * * * *

Items in This E-Newsletter
1. Reminder: Big Neighborhood Watch Meeting, Sunday, April 15, 4-6 p.m., Chochmat HaLev (Prince at Fulton)
2. Register for Childcare Coverage for Meeting on Sunday, April 15, 4-6 p.m.
3. Order Your Disaster Prep 55-Gallon Water Barrel by Friday, April 20
4. Sign Up Now to Participate in Huge Multi-Block Yard Sale, Saturday, June 9, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Editor's Introductory Note:

Yes! We're really serious about wanting a huge turnout this Sunday for our BIG Neighborhood Watch meeting. It's a great opportunity for many neighbors to get up to speed on the City's latest recommendations for personal disaster preparedness, as well as inaugurate our neighborhood disaster plan. Thanks to the neighbors who are making reminder calls so you don't forget to come!

There will be childcare at the event, and it's not too late to sign up in advance (see Item 2), but you must preregister if you want to bring your kids.

We will also be collecting order forms and checks for a 55-gallon water barrel (see Item 3) and to sign up for the Multi-Block Yard Sale June 9.

Hope to see you Sunday, and please keep  spreading the word!

-Nancy Carleton, HNA Co-Chair and E-Newsletter Editor

* * * * * * * * * * * *
1. Big Neighborhood Watch Meeting, Sunday, April 15, 4-6 p.m., Chochmat HaLev (Prince at Fulton)

HNA's BIG Neighborhood-Watch Community Meeting
focusing on Disaster Prep & Crime Watch
including SPECIAL presentation of City's Personal Disaster Preparedness Workshop
Sunday, April 15, 4-6 p.m., Chochmat HaLev (Prince at Fulton)
Facilitated by Dawn Rubin, HNA's Neighborhood Watch Coordinator

* Note to those who wait until the last minute to file your taxes: Tax Day this year is Tuesday, April 17, due to April 15 falling on a Sunday and April 16 being Emancipation Day, a holiday in D.C.

HNA includes neighbors living in the area bordered by Ashby, Telegraph, Woolsey, and Adeline. Come learn how you can upgrade your personal disaster preparedness as well as participate in a neighborhood plan that will save lives in the event of the Big One. We have invited the Mayor's Office, our City Councilmembers, and Beat Officers, with the goal of strengthening our disaster preparedness and fine-tuning our Crime Watch for the warmer weather. Special bonus: The meeting will include a time-condensed version of the Office of Emergency Services' workshop on Personal Disaster Preparedness, which ordinarily requires pre-registration and travel to City premises.

Our agenda includes:

4:00 Call to Order, Review Agenda, and Introductions: Dawn Rubin, Facilitator (Please arrive promptly!)
            * John Steere re: Halcyon Neighborhood Association
            * Councilmember Kriss Worthington
            * Councilmember Max Anderson
            * Vicky Liu from the  Mayor's Office
            * Jim Hynes from the City Manager's Office
4:20    Nancy Carleton re: Emergency Supply Cache and Strengthening Neighborhood-Wide Disaster Prep Plans
            * Halcyon Emergency Plan Overview
            * Incident Command System Introduction
            * Need for volunteers to help further organize our neighborhood
            * Fundraising for additional supplies for cache (batteries, sheets, etc.)
4:30    Personal Disaster Preparedness Workshop: Five Critical Steps to Prepare for Emergency (firefighter presentation)
5:30    Crime Watch
           * Introduce Beat Officer(s) & Area Coordinator(s)
           * Recent Crime Overview
5:45    Q & A
5:55    Future Events & Next Steps (John Steere)
6:00    Adjourn & Clean-up (we will end promptly)              

See Item 2 to arrange for Childcare coverage during the meeting!
Bring check to pay for Disaster Prep 55-gallon Water Barrel (see Item 3) and/or to participate in Multi-Block Yard Sale June 9 (see Item 4)

* * * * * * * * * * * *
2. Register for Childcare Coverage for Meeting on Sunday, April 15, 4-6 p.m.

ATTENTION, FAMILIES:  We're hoping more parents will come to the neighborhood meeting on April 15 if kids can come too and have fun getting to know one another in an adjoining room.  We have a tentative plan to offer childcare at  $10/family for 2 hours. If we get at least 3 families interested, we will arrange with local teenagers to come work. We need to know ASAP.  Please email Dawn Trygstad Rubin at <familyrubin@comcast.net> to make a childcare reservation and/or if you have teenagers who are interested in offering childcare. Reservations will be REQUIRED - there will be no drop-in childcare because we need to know the number of kids in advance in order to hire enough babysitters. Volunteers to help coordinate this offering are welcome (contact Dawn).

* * * * * * * * * * * *
3. Order Your Disaster Prep 55-Gallon Water Barrel by Friday, April 20

The City of Berkeley recommends that households store at least 1 gallon of water per resident for a minimum of five days (i.e., a household of four would need to store at least 20 gallons). Many of us who witnessed the slow governmental response to the Katrina disaster feel it's prudent to store supplies for at least 7 to 10 days, since we are likely to be on our own that long, and the EBMUD water delivery system may well be compromised. And many of us have pets and house plants that will need water too. 55-gallon barrels that can easily be stored in a corner outside allow an easy way to store plenty of water for your household's needs in the event of disaster. They require simple annual maintenance for best results.

Neighbors Susan Hunter and Mark Foy have researched costs for 55-gallon blue plastic water barrels and manual pumps for disaster preparedness. If we place a group order for 40 or more, we will receive a substantial discount (approximately 36%). You'll be able to order your barrel at the April 15 Neighborhood Watch meeting or by dropping off or mailing a check by April 20. Moving forward with this project this spring requires an order of 40 or more barrels.

The $58.08 cost covers a 55-gallon water barrel (discounted to $31.95 from  $52.21 for orders over 40), a manual pump to allow access to the water (and to facilitate annual cleaning) ($12.00), and shipping costs ($14.95 per barrel) to a central location (Halcyon Court).

To Order (Orders needed by Friday, April 20):
Send your check or money order for $58.08 made out to Halcyon Neighborhood Association (or HNA), earmarked "water barrel" to:
Susan Hunter, Treasurer, HNA
3044-A Halcyon Court
Berkeley, CA 94705
(or drop through mail slot in front door at 3044 Halcyon across from Halcyon Commons Park)
Note: Checks will not be deposited until 40 orders have been received; if we don't get 40 orders, the cost of each barrel will go up, and we will have to reevaluate our plans. Please be sure to include your full address, email, and phone number with your order for follow-up.

Attention: LeConte, Bateman, WIllard, and Lorin Neighbors: We are happy to include orders from nearby neighborhood groups in our group order; however, if you live outside HNA's boundaries (Ashby, Telegraph, Woolsey, Adeline), you will need to arrange to pick up your barrel from Halcyon Court in a timely manner following delivery (date TBD).

Volunteers with Trucks Needed:  The water barrels will be delivered to Halcyon Court. We need a neighbor with a truck (or, even better, a few neighbors with trucks) to deliver the barrels to individual addresses. Some neighbors may also need help setting up their barrel.  To volunteer for both or either function, email Susan Hunter <suze208@earthlink.net>.

For More Information, contact:
Susan Hunter <suze208@earthlink.net> 517-0241

* * * * * * * * * * * *
4. Sign Up Now to Participate in Huge Multi-Block Yard Sale, Saturday, June 9, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

In years past, HNA sponsored several hugely successful multi-block yard sales. Several neighbors have said it's time to do it again! The date is set:

HNA Multi-Block Yard Sale
Saturday, June 9, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
(set up by 9 a.m. recommended; when multiblock yard sales are advertised, dealers come early)

* Sale will be advertised widely in locals newspapers and on the web, and we expect a huge turnout.

* Sign up now - $5 checks to HNA required to participate (goes toward ads and flyers). Mail your check (or drop off) to: HNA Treasurer Susan Hunter, 3044-A Halcyon Court, Berkeley, CA 94705. Or bring your check to HNA's Neighborhood Watch meeting April 15, 4-6 p.m. at Chochmat HaLev (Prince at Fulton).

* In addition to being a chance to clear out your closets and garages, this event is a fundraiser for the HNA Disaster Preparedness Fund; on the day of the event, HNA representatives will ask you to contribute 5-10% of your proceeds (or more, if you're feeling generous); all of these funds will go directly toward purchasing supplies for the Halcyon Disaster Supply Cache, which contains materials to support neighborhood-wide Disaster First Aid, Light Search & Rescue, and a Command Center in Halcyon Commons Park following a major disaster (if you wish your contribution to be tax-deductible, you can make your check payable to BPFP -  Berkeley Partners for Parks -  earmarked for Halcyon disaster prep).

* Volunteers are needed to help post flyers and to set up signs at major intersections on the day of the event. Volunteers will also be needed the evening of Friday, June 8 to make the big signs to post at major intersections. Please call or email Susan Hunter <suze208@earthlink.net> or 517-0241 if you're willing to help.

* * * * * * * * * * * *
The Halcyon Neighborhood Association E-Newsletter:  The HNA E-Newsletter forwards occasional crime-watch notices as well as items of general interest to neighbors in the Ashby/Telegraph/Woolsey/Adeline area of south Berkeley (HNA's borders), including announcements about community-building potlucks, greening projects, disaster preparedness meetings, and work parties in Halcyon Commons Park. If you're receiving this email, you probably either signed up at a neighborhood event or a neighbor forwarded it to you. Please note that to prevent spam, HNA always uses bcc and does not share your email address with third parties. If you wish to be removed from this list, please reply to HNA Co-Chair Nancy Carleton/Halcyon Neighborhood Association <ngc2@mindspring.com>. Feel free to pass the HNA E-Newsletter on to other neighbors you think might be interested.

To submit items for the newsletter:   Email unformatted content or links (no graphics or attachments) to HNA E-Newsletter Editor Nancy Carleton <ngc2@mindspring.com>. Crime-watch reports and news about neighbors is especially welcome. Please note that due to the volunteer nature of the endeavor, the E-Newsletter does not typically include "letters to the editor" or "commentary," but will gladly include links to such items written by neighbors in the Ashby/Telegraph/Woolsey/Adeline area and published elsewhere (the Berkeley Daily Planet has a large section devoted to opinion).

HNA Listserve:  If you would like to receive messages (and participate in discussions) on the HNA Listserve, please reply to Halcyon Neighborhood Association <ngc2@mindspring.com> indicating your interest, and you will receive an invitation to join. [The HNA Listserve is currently inactive but can be revived if enough neighbors show interest.]

HNA Blog:  If you would like to view previous newsletters online (and comment via a blog format, though this is a relatively inactive blog), please visit http://halcyoncourt.blogspot.com/

* * * * * * * * * * * *