Halcyon Neighborhood Association

Friday, September 26, 2008

E-News: Big Celebration/Potluck with Music Sunday at Halcyon Commons, 4-6:30; 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 personal viewpoint.
* * * * * * * * * * * *

1. Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Celebration & Potluck (with Live Music), This Sunday, Sept. 28, 4-6:30 p.m.
2. Crime Watch Report: Prowler on Halcyon Court
3. City Extends Emergency Alert Service to Cell Phones

* For Your Calendar: HNA Dates Scheduled for 2008/2009
* Disaster Prep Supply Cache Wish List
* City of Berkeley: Useful Contact Information
* Halcyon Neighborhood Association's Guiding Principles

Editor's Introductory Note:

This Sunday we'll be celebrating the installation of new features in our neighborhood park, Halcyon Commons, over the past two years (the beautiful metal archway by artist Amy Blackstone; dozens of infill plants; and the installation of boulders and flagstone at the southeast corner of the park) as funded by the UC Chancellor's Community Partnership Grant. So come on out for a fun afternoon featuring live music, a potluck, and a chance to enjoy the company of your neighbors (see item 1)! The Halcyon event starts at 4 p.m., but feel free to come at 3 p.m. if you'd also like to support the wonderful citywide nonprofit Berkeley Partners for Parks, whose annual Membership Picnic and Funraiser will overlap with our event (BPFP was the fiscal sponsor for our grant application and has played a significant role in the development of Halcyon Commons since the beginning).

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

* * * * * * * * * * * *
1. Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Celebration & Potluck (with Live Music), This Sunday, Sept. 28, 4-6:30 p.m.

Come one and all to the
Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Celebration & Potluck!
featuring Live Music by Singer/Songwriter Evelie Posch & Friends
Sunday, September 28, 4:00-6:30 p.m.
Halcyon Commons (Halcyon Court at Prince Street)

Come join in the dedication of new improvements funded by the UC Chancellor's Community Partnership Grant to our grassroots-designed and -built neighborhood park, Halcyon Commons.

4-5 p.m.: Food, music, and conversation; meet your neighbors and more!

5-5:20: Brief Program celebrating the completion of the Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Project, with recognition of project partners and brief statements by  Mayor Tom Bates, Councilmember Kriss Worthington, Artist Amy Blackstone, and HNA Co-Chairs Nancy Carleton and John Steere

5:30-6:30: More food and music: Acoustic Folk and Torch Songs by the talented singer/songwriter Evelie Posch & Friends

Please bring quality food and/or drink to share for at least 8.
Potluck suggestions: Appetizer: T-Z  * Main Dish: L-S * Salad: A-F  * Dessert: G-K
(If not obvious, kindly attach a label with ingredients for your dish to alert those with vegetarian and other diets.
If so inspired, it's really helpful if you can also bring a beverage to share.) Children welcome!

This event will overlap with the Annual Membership Picnic and Fun Raiser of Berkeley Partners for Parks (http://www.bpfp.org) from 3:00 to 5:30 p.m., which will also offer music, food, and fellowship. So come early if you'd also like to support BPFP! Donations appreciated for BPFP (suggested contribution $30); the HNA event is no charge.

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2. Crime Watch Report: Prowler on Halcyon Court

A Halcyon Court neighbor reports:

"On the night of September 14, at 11 p.m., a prowler was in our backyard. I heard him open the gate and when I yelled he ran off in a hurry. My next-door neighbor heard it too. I called the BPD nonemergency number and reported it."

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3. City Extends Emergency Alert Service to Cell Phones

The City of Berkeley has an existing system to alert land phone lines in Berkeley in the case of disaster. It has now added an opportunity to register your cellphone. You can also register your email address, PDA, or pager. Go to:

* * * * * * * * * * * ** * * * * * * * * * * *
For Your Calendar: HNA Dates Scheduled for 2008/2009

Dates set as of  September 2008 (verify a couple weeks before event by checking HNA E-Newsletter):

Sunday, September 28, 4-6:30 p.m., Party in the Park to Celebrate Completion of Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Project (with potluck and live music), Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince)
Saturday, November 15, 9 a.m. -2 p.m. Cal's Berkeley Project Day;  Big Work Party in Halcyon Commons and surrounding neighborhood (weeding, mulching, picking up trash, removing graffiti); meet at Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince)
Sunday, January 11, 2009, 5:30-8:45 p.m., 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):

Duct Tape (this is a versatile supply that allows us to improvise with common household items in the event of a disaster: lots needed!); Batteries (AA, C, D), regular & rechargeable; Battery Recharger for AA (LOTS of these needed!), C, D; Quality Walkie-Talkies with 8-mile range, 22 channels (i.e., Motorola Talkabout T5500 two-way radios); Axes; Crow Bars, Hard Hats; Other Tools for Search & Rescue; Head Lamps; Heavy-duty Flashlights; Bullhorn;  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; Two-Foot Lengths of 2x4s and 4x4s (good for cribbing and creating fulcrums for removing heavy objects during search & rescue operations).

Contact HNA Co-Chair and Cache Coordinator Nancy Carleton at <halcyon92@gmail.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 to reach Berkeley emergency from a cell)
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.

Link to crime stats:

Link to police bulletins:
http://www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/police/crimestats/policebulletins.html

Other City Departments:

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

Public Works Customer Service:  981-6620 (streets, sidewalks, graffiti, sewers, litter, storm drains, street lights)

Tree Trimming/Planting (Forestry)/Parks: 981-6660

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>

[Editor's Note: While Councilmember Dona Spring is, sadly, no longer with us, her Council office is still operating and receiving emails at the above address;  although District 4 won't have a vote at Council meetings until a new councilmember is elected in November, then sworn in, Dona's existing staff is still tracking concerns sent their way, so I have not deleted her address from the list.]

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)

* * * * * * * * * * * *
* Halcyon Neighborhood Association's Guiding Principles

HNA is a community group dedicated to stewardship of the Halcyon Neighborhood in South Berkeley (bounded by Telegraph, Ashby, Adeline, and Woolsey). We encourage positive, proactive, partnership-oriented approaches to improving the well-being of our neighborhood, with an emphasis on the following goals:
  • Community building (such as regular potlucks, special events in the park, mutual support among neighbors, and multiblock yard sales);
  • Ongoing care of Halcyon Commons (a park conceived of and created by the neighbors who founded HNA) under the nonprofit umbrella provided by Berkeley Partners for Parks and in partnership with the City of Berkeley;
  • Continued greening and care of the neighborhood (planting trees, cleaning litter off streets, graffiti removal, and helping maintain public landscaped features);
  • Strengthening neighborhood watch (crime watch, community safety walks, emergency preparedness, and disaster supply cache);
  • Networking with the larger Berkeley community (nearby neighborhood groups, neighborhood businesses, City staff, and elected officials);
  • Sharing information and empowering residents to become proactive in addressing neighborhood needs and in expressing individual viewpoints regarding civic affairs (spreading news through meetings, flyers, and the HNA E-Newsletter, and providing contact information).
        To fulfill these goals, HNA provides a sanctuary from partisan politics so that neighbors with diverse viewpoints feel welcome to participate. Thus, HNA only takes stands on larger issues when there is near-unanimity among neighbors. By focusing on immediate local concerns, we find we can have a greater impact and get better results from the time we invest.
       Guided by these principles, HNA invites neighbors who are willing to work together in a spirit of partnership to participate at whatever level makes sense for them. Opportunities for serving on our volunteer Steering Committee and project-oriented committees are available to neighbors who are willing to roll up their sleeves and work together in a nonpartisan spirit. Neighbors are invited to step forward into leadership positions defined by the work they do in accordance with HNA's primary goals and guiding principles.

* * * * * * * * * * * *
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 <halcyon92@gmail.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 <halcyon92@gmail.com>. Crime-watch reports and news about neighbors (births, new jobs, announcements re home businesses) 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 Halcyon Safety Walk Listserve:  For those who'd like to participate in night-time and daytime safety "dog" walks (dogs not required) to build community and serve as eyes on the street, please reply  to Halcyon Neighborhood Association <halcyon92@gmail.com> indicating your interest, and you will receive an invitation to join. For everyone's safety, be sure to include your full name, address, email, and phone.

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/

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Monday, September 15, 2008

HNA E-News: Work Party in Park Sat. 9/20; Celebration in Park 9/28; Tai Chi starting 9/17; more honey; 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 personal viewpoint.
* * * * * * * * * * * *

1. Work Party in Halcyon Commons This Saturday, Sept. 20, 9:30 a.m.-12 noon
2. Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Celebration & Potluck (with Live Music), Sunday, Sept. 28, 4-6:30 p.m.
3. Enhancing Neighborhood Lighting: Order Deadline Oct. 31st
4. Neighborhood Tai Chi Class Offered Starting September 17 (with possibility of Tai Chi Practice in the Park to follow)
5. Latest Harvest of Halcyon Honey Available for Purchase (or Free with Donation to HNA)!

* For Your Calendar: HNA Dates Scheduled for 2008
* Disaster Prep Supply Cache Wish List
* City of Berkeley: Useful Contact Information
* Halcyon Neighborhood Association's Guiding Principles

Editor's Introductory Note:

We have a work party coming up in Halcyon Commons this weekend (item 1). I hope to see some of you there. We're aiming to get the park in good shape for the big celebration the next weekend (item 2) with some weeding, trimming, sweeping, and graffiti removal.

On the subject of taking good care of the park -- which as most of you know was created by the neighborhood in partnership with the City, with an  commitment from HNA to help with the ongoing maintenance -- please keep an eye out to protect the lawn area. At our request, City staff recently reseeded areas that had become bare patches, and when i returned to town at the end of August the grass looked much better. But already there are some bare patches again, this time clearly the result of digging by dogs. So if you bring your dog(s) to the park, please be mindful both to pick up after them and to keep them from digging or scratching at the turf. It doesn't take long for a lot of damage to be done. Since this relatively small space gets a lot of use over the course of the week, it will only stay nice if we all look out for it, and give gentle reminders to those who might not be paying attention. Let's keep this precious commonly created and used space in good repair so we all can enjoy it!

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

* * * * * * * * * * * ** * * * * * * * * * * *
1. Work Party in Halcyon Commons This Saturday, Sept. 20, 9:30 a.m.-12 noon

Work Party in Halcyon Commons & Surrounds
Saturday, September 20, 9:30 a.m.-12:00 noon
Meet at Halcyon Commons (Halcyon Court at Prince Street)

Delicious refreshments (& water) courtesy of Whole Foods Market
Fresh coffee courtesy of Mokka Cafe (Telegraph at Dowling)

Chat with neighbors while we weed, trim, pick up trash, and remove graffiti in the park and surrounding neighborhood. Please bring weeding and trimming tools (with labels) if you have them (extra tools will be available if you don't). Let's give our precious common space some TLC to make it ready for our big celebration September 28th!

* * * * * * * * * * * ** * * * * * * * * * * *
2. Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Celebration & Potluck (with Live Music), Sunday, Sept. 28, 4-6:30 p.m.

Come one and all to the
Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Celebration & Potluck!
featuring Live Music by Singer/Songwriter Evelie Posch & Friends
Sunday, September 28, 4:00-6:30 p.m.
Halcyon Commons (Halcyon Court at Prince Street)

Come join in the dedication of new improvements funded by the UC Chancellor's Community Partnership Grant to our grassroots-designed and -built neighborhood park, Halcyon Commons.

4-5 p.m.: Food, music, and conversation; meet your neighbors and more!

5-5:20: Brief Program celebrating the completion of the Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Project, with recognition of project partners and statements by officials, including Mayor Tom Bates, Councilmember Kriss Worthington, and HNA Co-Chairs Nancy Carleton and John Steere

5:30-6:30: More food and music: Acoustic Folk by the talented singer/songwriter Evelie Posch & Friends

This event will overlap with the Annual Membership Picnic and Fun Raiser of Berkeley Partners for Parks (http://www.bpfp.org) from 3:00 to 5:30 p.m., which will also offer music, food, and fellowship.

Please bring quality food and/or drink to share for at least 8.
Potluck suggestions: Appetizer: T-Z  * Main Dish: L-S * Salad: A-F  * Dessert: G-K
(If not obvious, kindly attach a label with ingredients for your dish to alert those with vegetarian and other diets.
If so inspired, it's really helpful if you can also bring a beverage to share.) Children welcome!

* * * * * * * * * * * ** * * * * * * * * * * *
3. Enhancing Neighborhood Lighting: Order Deadline Oct. 31st

Those households that have received or will be receiving a copy of our HNA flyer recently may have noticed the order form for discount lighting fixtures on the back side. Jill Finn, the Block Captain of  2100 Oregon, has launched a project to help residents obtain motion sensitive lights for the front of their homes. She has gotten a quantity discount at $30 for a flexible two bulb unit, plus an estimate for installation (or you can install yourself). Her goal is to have such lights installed throughout LeConte [including Halcyon south of Ahsby] with the result that the sidewalks and driveways will "light up" when people walk by. (The Police Department confirms that "street lights" are not intended to prevent all dark spots on sidewalks, so our additions will make a difference. ) If you didn't receive a copy of the order form, or have misplaced it, you can get a pdf  of it by emailing jcf2525@gmail.com. Jill is collecting orders for a October 31st deadline, so act now!

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4. Neighborhood Tai Chi Class Offered Starting September 17 (with possibility of Tai Chi Practice in the Park to follow)

[Editor's Note: In the spirit of community-building, neighbor Judith Schwartz is offering T'ai Chi Chih classes in her Prince Street garden beginning this Wednesday, September 17, with hopes that once neighbors learn the forms we can share ongoing practice (free of charge) in Halcyon Commons.What a great idea! Here's Judith's announcement.]

T'ai Chi Chih Neighborhood Class for Beginners
Beginning class starts on Wed. Sept 17th and continues through Oct. 26th, except Oct. 8th.
Time: 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Place: Prince St. between Shattuck and Wheeler
Cost: $100.00 for 6 classes; $90.00

I also have a DVD, which people can purchase for $32.00 to assist their daily practice (option). It is by the teacher of the teachers, Pam Towne. It is very good.

The basic 19 moves and one stance of T'ai Chi Chih can be learned in 6 sessions! The beginning class is designed for beginners, but others can always benefit from going over the details. If someone already knows T'ai Chi Chih and is looking for an intermediate or advanced practice, without instruction, this would not be the class for them. However, at City College, I am always integrating new people into the classes of students who have been doing it for 5, 10, 15 years! If people have learned a different style of Tai Chi or Qigong, they would be considered beginners in T'ai Chi Chih.  It's about learning a new set of movements.

For more information, contact Judith Schwartz, 510-843-2062; www.JudithSchwartz.com

* * * * * * * * * * * ** * * * * * * * * * * *
5. Latest Harvest of Halcyon Honey Available for Purchase (or Free with Donation to HNA)!

[Editor's Note: Neighbor Bruce WIcinas is offering organic neighborhood honey available at a bargain price. If you'd like to use this as an opportunity to contribute to our neighborhood association, those donating $20 or more will receive a complimentary  8 oz. jar of this fine local honey (for contributions of $40 or more, you'll receive the 16 oz size)! (If you'd like to donate to the neighborhood, drop your check made out to HNA/Halcyon Neighborhood Association through the slot at 3044 Halcyon Court or mail to Susan Hunter, Treasurer, 3044-A Halcyon Court, Berkeley, CA 94705; otherwise, see the announcement below to buy the honey directly.)

Honey for Sale:
The big honey harvest of the year is just in. Organic, raw honey made from the flowers of your gardens. For sale while it lasts: $6 for 16 oz jars, $3.50 per 8 oz. jar. $.75 credit for returned jars. The Honey Store is open every weekday 6:30 - 7:30 p.m., or by arrangement. Bruce and Noriko's house. Please call or email for the address or to arrange a different time. 848-1797  bwicinas@pacbell.net

* * * * * * * * * * * ** * * * * * * * * * * *
For Your Calendar: HNA Dates Scheduled for 2008/2009

Dates set as of  September 2008 (verify a couple weeks before event by checking HNA E-Newsletter):

Saturday, September 20, 9:30 a.m.-12 noon, Work Party, Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince)
Sunday, September 28, 4-6:30 p.m., Party in the Park to Celebrate Completion of Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Project (with potluck and live music), Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince)
Saturday, November 15, 9 a.m. -2 p.m. Cal's Berkeley Project Day;  Big Work Party in Halcyon Commons and surrounding neighborhood (weeding, mulching, picking up trash, removing graffiti); meet at Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince)
Sunday, January 11, 2009, 5:30-8:45 p.m., 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):

Duct Tape (this is a versatile supply that allows us to improvise with common household items in the event of a disaster: lots needed!); Batteries (AA, C, D), regular & rechargeable; Battery Recharger for AA (LOTS of these needed!), C, D; Quality Walkie-Talkies with 8-mile range, 22 channels (i.e., Motorola Talkabout T5500 two-way radios); Axes; Crow Bars, Hard Hats; Other Tools for Search & Rescue; Head Lamps; Heavy-duty Flashlights; Bullhorn;  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; Two-Foot Lengths of 2x4s and 4x4s (good for cribbing and creating fulcrums for removing heavy objects during search & rescue operations).

Contact HNA Co-Chair and Cache Coordinator Nancy Carleton at <halcyon92@gmail.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 to reach Berkeley emergency from a cell)
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.

Link to crime stats:

Link to police bulletins:
http://www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/police/crimestats/policebulletins.html

Other City Departments:

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

Public Works Customer Service:  981-6620 (streets, sidewalks, graffiti, sewers, litter, storm drains, street lights)

Tree Trimming/Planting (Forestry)/Parks: 981-6660

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>

[Editor's Note: While Councilmember Dona Spring is, sadly, no longer with us, her Council office is still operating and receiving emails at the above address;  although District 4 won't have a vote at Council meetings until a new councilmember is elected in November, then sworn in, Dona's existing staff is still tracking concerns sent their way, so I have not deleted her address from the list.]

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)

* * * * * * * * * * * *
* Halcyon Neighborhood Association's Guiding Principles

HNA is a community group dedicated to stewardship of the Halcyon Neighborhood in South Berkeley (bounded by Telegraph, Ashby, Adeline, and Woolsey). We encourage positive, proactive, partnership-oriented approaches to improving the well-being of our neighborhood, with an emphasis on the following goals:
  • Community building (such as regular potlucks, special events in the park, mutual support among neighbors, and multiblock yard sales);
  • Ongoing care of Halcyon Commons (a park conceived of and created by the neighbors who founded HNA) under the nonprofit umbrella provided by Berkeley Partners for Parks and in partnership with the City of Berkeley;
  • Continued greening and care of the neighborhood (planting trees, cleaning litter off streets, graffiti removal, and helping maintain public landscaped features);
  • Strengthening neighborhood watch (crime watch, community safety walks, emergency preparedness, and disaster supply cache);
  • Networking with the larger Berkeley community (nearby neighborhood groups, neighborhood businesses, City staff, and elected officials);
  • Sharing information and empowering residents to become proactive in addressing neighborhood needs and in expressing individual viewpoints regarding civic affairs (spreading news through meetings, flyers, and the HNA E-Newsletter, and providing contact information).
        To fulfill these goals, HNA provides a sanctuary from partisan politics so that neighbors with diverse viewpoints feel welcome to participate. Thus, HNA only takes stands on larger issues when there is near-unanimity among neighbors. By focusing on immediate local concerns, we find we can have a greater impact and get better results from the time we invest.
       Guided by these principles, HNA invites neighbors who are willing to work together in a spirit of partnership to participate at whatever level makes sense for them. Opportunities for serving on our volunteer Steering Committee and project-oriented committees are available to neighbors who are willing to roll up their sleeves and work together in a nonpartisan spirit. Neighbors are invited to step forward into leadership positions defined by the work they do in accordance with HNA's primary goals and guiding principles.

* * * * * * * * * * * *
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 <halcyon92@gmail.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 <halcyon92@gmail.com>. Crime-watch reports and news about neighbors (births, new jobs, announcements re home businesses) 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 Halcyon Safety Walk Listserve:  For those who'd like to participate in night-time and daytime safety "dog" walks (dogs not required) to build community and serve as eyes on the street, please reply  to Halcyon Neighborhood Association <halcyon92@gmail.com> indicating your interest, and you will receive an invitation to join. For everyone's safety, be sure to include your full name, address, email, and phone.

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/

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Thursday, September 04, 2008

HNA E-News: Ed Roberts Campus Groundbreaking Today; Benefit for Nomad Friday; Yard Sale Saturday; Neighborhood Tai Chi Class; Crime Watch Updates; etc.


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Halcyon Neighborhood Association E-Newsletter
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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 personal viewpoint.
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1. Groundbreaking Ceremony at Ed Roberts Campus Today, Thursday, September 4, 1:30 p.m.
2. Benefit Concert at Nomad Cafe to Help Victims of Recent Robbery, Friday, September 5, 7:30-9 p.m. (plus News from Nomad and links)
3. Double-Household Yard Sale at 3044 Halcyon, Saturday, September 6, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
4. Neighborhood Tai Chi Class Offered Starting in September (with possibility of Tai Chi Practice in the Park to follow)
5. Latest Harvest of Halcyon Honey Available for Purchase (or Free with Donation to HNA)!
6. City Offers Free Disaster Prep Classes
8. Development Alert: Project Proposed for Ashby/Telegraph Site
9. Save the Date: Big Celebration at Halcyon Commons, Sunday, September 28, 4-6:30 p.m.
10. City Offering New Program on Disposal of Fluorescent Lamps
11. Neighbor Seeking Information on Childcare Options!

* For Your Calendar: HNA Dates Scheduled for 2008
* Disaster Prep Supply Cache Wish List
* City of Berkeley: Useful Contact Information
* Halcyon Neighborhood Association's Guiding Principles

Editor's Introductory Note:

Back in town after being away much of August, I was dismayed to hear about the series of armed restaurant/small business robberies/takeovers, including one at Nomad Cafe, our ally in the crime fight on the South Berkeley/North Oakland border. But I'm gratified to see that some of the perpetrators have been caught, and also that the community is pulling together to support Nomad (see item 2). Though, as an article in a recent Chronicle points out (link also in item 2), with the deteriorating economy, such incidents are on the increase in the Bay Area and remain a threat, and we're wise to continue to work together to prevent them.

As you'll see from this E-News, there's plenty of good community news in addition to the crime-watch warnings, including a big celebration coming up in the park on September 28 (see item 9). If you're so inspired, consider a donation to keep HNA going strong (see item 5 on the latest harvest of Halcyon honey, which is available for purchase from neighbor Bruce Wicinas). We could also use a few more volunteers willing to help distribute neighborhood flyers the week after next; becoming a regular flyer distributor is a manageable but important volunteer task involving a commitment of around half an hour five or six times a year, and helps us reach out to new neighbors and those who don't have access to email as well as reminding everyone of upcoming events. Email me at <halcyon92@gmail.com> if you can help in this way!

And, as always, stay alert and stay safe!

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

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1. Groundbreaking Ceremony at Ed Roberts Campus Today, Thursday, September 4, 1:30 p.m.

Neighbor Caleb Dardick, who has worked as a consultant on the Ed Roberts Campus Project, emailed over the following invitation to the neighborhood:

On behalf of the Ed Roberts Campus (ERC) Board, I hope you will be able to join us for our Groundbreaking event on Thursday, September 4th at 1:30 p.m. at the Ashby BART Station (east parking lot, please enter on Woolsey).

This new facility will house a number of nonprofit organizations that will offer a wide range of programs and direct services to the disability community. It will include fully accessible meeting rooms, a fitness center, a cafe and a child development center. The ERC is designed to address the needs of the disability community and the surrounding community. Neighbors have been involved in the review of the design and construction planning from the beginnings of this project. The addition of this facility will transform Ashby BART from an often desolate, underpopulated spot to a busy center with activities from morning until late evening. Besides replacing the existing parking onsite there will be another underground garage. Other improvements will be made to the BART station. For more information: www.edrobertscampus.org
 
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2. Benefit Concert at Nomad Cafe to Help Victims of Recent Robbery, Friday, September 5, 7:30-9 p.m. (plus News from Nomad and links)

BREAKING NEWS ON ARRESTS [from the Nomad e-newsletter followed by newspaper article links]

We are pleased to announce that our surveillance video and our outreach efforts have helped the investigation identify suspects and make at least two arrests, and we hope this will send a message to others that just because Oakland has problems with crime, it doesn't mean we will lay down and give Oakland to criminals.
We want to give our thanks to OPD and the City of Oakland for their efforts on our behalf, and to all the members of the community who have shown their support. Friday's benefit concert at Nomad Cafe will also be a de facto appreciation for OPD and this arrest. We hope to see you there!

[Editor's Note: Here are a couple of related news links.]

http://www.berkeleydailyplanet.com/issue/2008-08-28/article/31007?headline=Oakland-Police-Announce-Arrests-of-Principals-in-Takeover-Robberies

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/09/02/MN9112IJGP.DTL&hw=take+over+robberies&sn=001&sc=1000

News from Nomad and Announcement of Benefit Concert

[Editor's Note: The following information was included as part of the Nomad Cafe's e-newsletter. Please contact <info@nomadcafe.net> to be added to the list to receive it regularly.]

Oakland, CA - In the wake of a spree of "take-over style" robberies plaguing Oakland in recent weeks, one neighborhood and community has decided to come together in support of one of the small businesses victimized by this senseless violence.  The Nomad Café (6500 Shattuck Avenue, Oakland), was robbed at gunpoint just after closing two weeks ago and will be the site of a benefit concert this Friday evening, September 5th from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., in support of those directly affected by the robbery.
The Nomad Café was established 5 years ago and was an immediate hit in a neighborhood that was lacking an identity. The Nomad became the home to many in the neighborhood and those moving through from Oakland to Berkeley in search of a warm, friendly, eco/green/Free Trade place to hang out. "The Nomad Cafe has spent the past five years building and supporting our community, and we appreciate all the support the community has shown us in return," said Nomad owner Christopher Waters.  "We want the proceeds of our supporters' generosity in the aftermath of this recent crime to provide a much-needed rehabilitation of the spirits for the members of our staff who experienced the robbery that night.  Funds will also be used to help fund security enhancements at Nomad Cafe," he explained.

Admission to this event is free, but donations will be welcomed.  Music will be provided by two local bands familiar to the Nomad Cafe:  Bryan Harrison Band and Kevin Beadles Band, each of whom will perform about an hour-long set. "We initially thought we would at least donate whatever monies we'd normally make at a gig like this from tips and CD sales," said Bryan Harrison.  "But to have the community come together like this is a truly beautiful thing.  It's taken on a life of its own."

Ron Kriss, a longtime community business owner and activist, is a friend of Waters' and has taken it upon himself to help orchestrate the benefit on a bit larger scale.  "We have other businesses in the area that have suffered similar fates from these types of crimes," he explained. "We need to support these local businesses not only when things are going right, but also during the tough times and I love what Christopher stands for  -- he is a great father, dedicated to the local public schools, an avid community participant on so many issues, and he runs an amazing café,"  he added.

A raffle will be held throughout the evening with prizes donated not just by the bands, but by community businesses looking to help and make a difference.  "So, while the show is free, we're hoping to be able to raise $1,000 or more for Christopher and his staff," Bryan explained.

The Nomad Cafe is located at 6500 Shattuck Ave in Oakland near the Berkeley border.  Showtime is from 7:00-9:30 on Friday September 5, 2008. The Nomad is usually a busy place on a normal evening, so come early. This event will provide a chance for newcomers to experience the "neighborhood defining Nomad Café" and join the regulars for a great evening of music and community.

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3. Double-Household Yard Sale at 3044 Halcyon, Saturday, September 6, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Halcyon neighbor (and HNA Treasurer) Susan Hunter forwarded the following message:

Yard sale at 3044 Halcyon (at least two households)
9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday

Items offered: Some cooking items, cookbooks, bookcase, books, nice clothing, some tools, photo books, sheets etc.  Paints: oils, pastels. Some tools, digital camera: Casio 6MP, a few darkroom items. And a bunch of other useful items for home.
There will also be some baked goodies for sale and coffee in a.m., Thai iced tea in afternoon, to benefit healthcare for neighbor Tory Finn's family dog.

Susan also notes:
"If you are interested in setting up items for sale at 3044 Halcyon alongside mine, I have room for one or two additional households to put stuff out, but you must be present to sell your own items."

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4. Neighborhood Tai Chi Class Offered Starting in September (with possibility of Tai Chi Practice in the Park to follow)

[Editor's Note: In the spirit of community-building, neighbor Judith Schwartz is offering T'ai Chi Chih classes in her Prince Street garden beginning in September, with hopes that once neighbors learn the forms we can share ongoing practice (free of charge) in Halcyon Commons.What a great idea! Here's Judith's announcement.]

T'ai Chi Chih Neighborhood Class for Beginners
Beginning class starts on Wed. Sept 17th and continues through Oct. 26th, except Oct. 8th.
Time: 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Place: Prince St. between Shattuck and Wheeler
Cost: $100.00 for 6 classes; $90.00 if registered before Sept. 10th.

I also have a DVD, which people can purchase for $32.00 to assist their daily practice (option). It is by the teacher of the teachers, Pam Towne. It is very good.

The basic 19 moves and one stance of T'ai Chi Chih can be learned in 6 sessions! The beginning class is designed for beginners, but others can always benefit from going over the details. If someone already knows T'ai Chi Chih and is looking for an intermediate or advanced practice, without instruction, this would not be the class for them. However, at City College, I am always integrating new people into the classes of students who have been doing it for 5, 10, 15 years! If people have learned a different style of Tai Chi or Qigong, they would be considered beginners in T'ai Chi Chih.  It's about learning a new set of movements.

For more information, contact Judith Schwartz, 510-843-2062; www.JudithSchwartz.com

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5. Latest Harvest of Halcyon Honey Available for Purchase (or Free with Donation to HNA)!

[Editor's Note: Neighbor Bruce WIcinas forwarded the following notice of organic neighborhood honey available at a bargain price. As some of you know, the health benefits of local honey are hailed by many. In addition, I can testify that this is rapturously delicious honey, with subtle hints of all of our fragrant neighborhood blossoms. Note as well that if you'd like to use this as an opportunity to contribute to our neighborhood association, those donating $20 or more will receive a complimentary jar of this fine honey! (If you'd like to donate to the neighborhood, drop your check made out to HNA/Halcyon Neighborhood Association through the slot at 3044 Halcyon Court or mail to Susan Hunter, Treasurer, 3044-A Halcyon Court, Berkeley, CA 94705; otherwise, see the announcement below to buy the honey directly.)

Honey for Sale:
The big honey harvest of the year is just in. Organic, raw honey made from the flowers of your gardens. For sale while it lasts: $6 for 16 oz jars, $3.50 per 8 oz. jar. $.75 credit for returned jars. The Honey Store is open every weekday 6:30 - 7:30 p.m., or by arrangement. Bruce and Noriko's house. Please call or email for the address or to arrange a different time. 848-1797  bwicinas@pacbell.net

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6. City Offers Free Disaster Prep Classes

http://www.cityofberkeley.info/PressReleaseMain.aspx?id=25240

The Office of Emergency Services offers free training in emergency preparedness to anyone who lives or works in Berkeley. You must be 18 or older to participate. Please see the schedule below for the current course offerings.  To register for courses please email Khin Chin at kchin@ci.berkeley.ca.us or call 510-981-5605 including the following information:

2008 Fall Schedule of classes (Schedule subject to change depending on instructor availability)
September 6 - 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Shelter Operations (American Red Cross)
September 6 - 1 pm-4 p.m.   Disaster Mental Health
September 27 - 9 a.m.-12 p.m.   Fire Suppression
October 4 - 9 a.m.-12 p.m.   Fire Suppression
October 11 - 9 a.m.-1 p.m.   Light Search and Rescue
October 18 - 1:30 p.m. -4:30 p.m.   Disaster First Aid
October 25 -  9 a.m.-12 p.m. Disaster First Aid 

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7. Crime Watch Roundup: Catalytic Converters; Burglary on Webster; Basement Burglary on Webster Street

[Edtior's Note: These announcements are from August, but because I was away this is the first opportunity to pass them on (the cautionary aspects still apply!).]

Catalytic Converters Stolen on Prince Street

A Prince Street neighbor reports:

"I just wanted to report that our van's two catalytic converters were stolen sometime between August 2nd and August 5th.  Since the van had not been driven since the 2nd when my housemate drove it, on August 5th he noticed the exhaust seemed to be leaking.  We took it down to Motor City and found out from Motor City's owner, Alan, that the catalytic converters had been cut from the bottom of the van.  Alan said there seemed to be a rash of this type of thief in Berkeley recently.Alan said that because of the metal in the converters they could be sold for about $40 each for scrap metal.  I called the police and am waiting to hear back from them to make a report. We live in the 2100 block of Prince Street."

[Editor's Note: Please note that there has indeed been a rash of catalytic converter thefts in the Berkeley/Oakland area this summer, including in the LeConte Neighborhood area north of Ashby.]

Basement Burglary on Webster Street

A Webster Street neighbor reports:

"A burglary occurred at the Steere residence on Webster Street on Saturday August 9, via the basement door.  Three bicycles were stolen.  An eye witness reported that it was done by two Hispanic men in a truck, who came into the driveway and rammed open the door using the truck and a bar. He claimed that he has observed this pair steal other
bicycles in the neighborhood and that they live not far away."

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8. Development Alert: Project Proposed for Ashby/Telegraph Site

Bateman neighbor Peter Shelton passes on the following announcement:

Neighbors,

A developer has proposed a five story, 50 foot building for the southeast corner of Telegraph and Ashby where the gas station used to be.  The project includes 38 residential units, up to four commercial units on the first floor, and 42 parking spaces.  The commercial units include plans for at least two food service occupants, including fast food.  Zoning requires 47 or 49 parking spaces, and the developer will be asking for a variance.  The 50 foot height is 10 feet over the allowed limit.
The report, available at the city's website, see below, states that parking impact on our neighborhoods will be mitigated by:  1.  A bicycle storage locker, 2. developer-paid City Car Share memberships for the owners/occupants of the residential units, 3. the addition of 1 new parking space on Telegraph where there is currently a driveway, and 4. proximity of BART and AC Transit. Further, the report states that the project will have no measurable impact on traffic on Ashby or College.  The entrance/exit to the development's parking will be from Ashby.  The traffic/parking study submitted by the developer appears to be utterly ignorant of the existing parking woes from the hospital, and it is clear the consultant is unaware of the hospital parking/traffic studies showing an overwhelming negative impact on our neighborhoods.

I urge you to look at the proposal, pass it on to your neighbors, and consider whether a community response it warranted.  If so, what is our response?

Thank you.
Peter Shelton

[Editor's Note: Peter attached a copy of the email he received from City staff in response to a query about the plans.]

Mr. Shelton,
This link also provides detailed info on the project including number of units, parking spaces, etc.  Please review this info and let me know if you have further questions.
 Aaron Sage, AICP
Senior Planner
City of Berkeley
Planning & Development Department
Land Use Planning Division
v - 510.981.7425
f - 510.981.7420

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9. Save the Date: Big Celebration at Halcyon Commons, Sunday, September 28, 4-6:30 p.m.

HNA Co-Chair John Steere is busy organizing a big celebration with music at Halcyon Commons park for Sunday, September 28. Please contact him at  <jsteere@igc.org> if you can help with advance work, set up, clean up, picking up tables/sound system, reminder calls, or sending email invitations.

Come one and all to the Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Celebration and Potluck.   
Sunday, Sept. 28 from 4:00  to 6:30 p.m.
 
Come join in the dedication of new improvements to our grassroots-designed and -built neighborhood park.
 
·        4 - 5  p.m. Potluck food; music and conversation - meet your neighbors and more!
·        5-5:20 p.m. :  Brief Program celebrating the completion of the Rejuvenation Project, with recognition of project partners and statements by officials, including Mayor Tom Bates and Councilmember Kriss Worthington, Nancy Carleton and John Steere, HNA co-chairs
·        5:30 to 6:30.  More food and music: Acoustic Folk by the talented band "Hello Harbinger"
 
Event will overlap with the Annual Membership Picnic and Fun Raiser of Berkeley Partners for Parks, (www.bpfp.org) from 3 to 5:30 - which will have music, food and fellowship too.

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10. City Offering New Program on Disposal of Fluorescent Lamps

http://www.cityofberkeley.info/PressReleaseMain.aspx?id=24364

[Editor's Note: Whole Foods Market is one of the drop points for fluorescent lamps in this new program designed to keep mercury out of the environment.]

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11. Neighbor Seeking Information on Childcare Options!

[Editor's Note: Parents! A Wheeler Street neighbor sends the following announcement requestion information about childcare options.]

Wheeler Street neighbor with infant seeks information about local (infant) childcare options ranging from daycare to families seeking full time nanny share, recommended nanny's and of course any other local childcare options we may not be aware of as new parents.  Thanks in advance for any information you can pass our way.
Email: <bkldy@yahoo.com>

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For Your Calendar: HNA Dates Scheduled for 2008/2009

Dates set as of  September 2008 (verify a couple weeks before event by checking HNA E-Newsletter):

Saturday, September 20, 9:30 a.m.-12 noon, Work Party, Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince)
Sunday, September 28, 4-7 p.m., Party in the Park to Celebrate Completion of Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Project (with potluck and live music), Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince)
Late October/Early November, date to be announced by Cal's Berkeley Project, Big Work Party in Halcyon Commons and surrounding neighborhood, Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince)
Sunday, October 12, 4-5:30, Big Neighborhood Watch meeting, location TBD
Sunday, November 9, 6-8 p.m. Fall Community Potluck, location TBD
November, Sunday afternoon, 4-5:30 p.m., Steering Committee & Disaster Prep Planning meeting, 2009 dates, date TBD, location TBD
Sunday, January 11, 2009, 5:30-8:45 p.m., Post-Holiday Progressive Potluck, four locations TBD

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* 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):

Duct Tape (this is a versatile supply that allows us to improvise with common household items in the event of a disaster: lots needed!); Batteries (AA, C, D), regular & rechargeable; Battery Recharger for AA (LOTS of these needed!), C, D; Quality Walkie-Talkies with 8-mile range, 22 channels (i.e., Motorola Talkabout T5500 two-way radios); Axes; Crow Bars, Hard Hats; Other Tools for Search & Rescue; Head Lamps; Heavy-duty Flashlights; Bullhorn;  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; Two-Foot Lengths of 2x4s and 4x4s (good for cribbing and creating fulcrums for removing heavy objects during search & rescue operations).

Contact HNA Co-Chair and Cache Coordinator Nancy Carleton at <halcyon92@gmail.com> or 644-0172 to contribute supplies.

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* City of Berkeley: Useful Contact Information

Police

Police Emergency Number:  911 (from landline); 981-5911(from cell; preprogram with this number to reach Berkeley emergency from a cell)
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.

Link to crime stats:

Link to police bulletins:
http://www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/police/crimestats/policebulletins.html

Other City Departments:

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

Public Works Customer Service:  981-6620 (streets, sidewalks, graffiti, sewers, litter, storm drains, street lights)

Tree Trimming/Planting (Forestry)/Parks: 981-6660

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)

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* Halcyon Neighborhood Association's Guiding Principles

HNA is a community group dedicated to stewardship of the Halcyon Neighborhood in South Berkeley (bounded by Telegraph, Ashby, Adeline, and Woolsey). We encourage positive, proactive, partnership-oriented approaches to improving the well-being of our neighborhood, with an emphasis on the following goals:
  • Community building (such as regular potlucks, special events in the park, mutual support among neighbors, and multiblock yard sales);
  • Ongoing care of Halcyon Commons (a park conceived of and created by the neighbors who founded HNA) under the nonprofit umbrella provided by Berkeley Partners for Parks and in partnership with the City of Berkeley;
  • Continued greening and care of the neighborhood (planting trees, cleaning litter off streets, graffiti removal, and helping maintain public landscaped features);
  • Strengthening neighborhood watch (crime watch, community safety walks, emergency preparedness, and disaster supply cache);
  • Networking with the larger Berkeley community (nearby neighborhood groups, neighborhood businesses, City staff, and elected officials);
  • Sharing information and empowering residents to become proactive in addressing neighborhood needs and in expressing individual viewpoints regarding civic affairs (spreading news through meetings, flyers, and the HNA E-Newsletter, and providing contact information).
        To fulfill these goals, HNA provides a sanctuary from partisan politics so that neighbors with diverse viewpoints feel welcome to participate. Thus, HNA only takes stands on larger issues when there is near-unanimity among neighbors. By focusing on immediate local concerns, we find we can have a greater impact and get better results from the time we invest.
       Guided by these principles, HNA invites neighbors who are willing to work together in a spirit of partnership to participate at whatever level makes sense for them. Opportunities for serving on our volunteer Steering Committee and project-oriented committees are available to neighbors who are willing to roll up their sleeves and work together in a nonpartisan spirit. Neighbors are invited to step forward into leadership positions defined by the work they do in accordance with HNA's primary goals and guiding principles.

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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 <halcyon92@gmail.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 <halcyon92@gmail.com>. Crime-watch reports and news about neighbors (births, new jobs, announcements re home businesses) 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 Halcyon Safety Walk Listserve:  For those who'd like to participate in night-time and daytime safety "dog" walks (dogs not required) to build community and serve as eyes on the street, please reply  to Halcyon Neighborhood Association <halcyon92@gmail.com> indicating your interest, and you will receive an invitation to join. For everyone's safety, be sure to include your full name, address, email, and phone.

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/

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