Halcyon Neighborhood Association

HNA E-News: Now being sent through VerticalResponse

2009-10-08T20:34:00.001-07:00

Dear Subscribers to the HNA E-News:

After several dozen hours and many fruitless online and by-phone
chats with tech support (often on distant shores), I was unable to
resolve an issue involving sending out the HNA E-News from the
address <halcyon92@gmail.com> to multiple addresses (now around 420).
That's why there's been such a gap between newsletters (not lack of
news!). After much consideration of various options, and in light of
many neighbors stating a preference not to be on another listserv but
rather wanting to continue with an edited newsletter format, I am now
sending out the E-News through VerticalResponse, an email marketing
business that offers 10,000 free emails a month to qualifying
nonprofits (HNA is entitled as an affiliate of the umbrella Berkeley
Partners for Parks). An edition went out around 10:50 p.m. Wednesday.

There are pluses and minuses to any method; at least with
VerticalResponse the ad at the end is modest -- just a link to their
site and that's all. One downside, however, is that the E-News comes
from a VerticalResponse address ( "Halcyon Neighborhood Association"
<Halcyon_Neighborhood_Association@mail.vresp.com>), which means the
edition I mailed out Wednesday night might have ended up trapped by
some of your spam or junk mail filters. So this is your notice if you
didn't receive the recent E-News to check your spam or junk mailbox
and do what you need to do to prevent that happening next time.

Thanks to all for understanding, and please check those spam filters
if you want to be sure to keep getting the E-News. As always,
correspondence regarding HNA, submissions for the E-News, and
changes in your email address, or notification of a desire to
unsubscribe, should come to <halcyon92@gmail.com>, HNA's official
email address, though VerticalResponse will forward any messages
accidentally sent by "reply" to their designated mailer address.
--
Nancy Carleton
HNA Co-Chair and E-News Editor
3044-B Halcyon Court
Berkeley, CA 94705

HNA E-News: Work Party Sat.; crime watch; etc.

2009-10-07T22:51:00.001-07:00

* * * * * * * * * * * *
Halcyon Neighborhood Association E-News
* * * * * * * * * * * *
Items appearing in the HNA E-News 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. Big Work Party in Halcyon Commons & Surrounding Neighborhood, This
Sat. 10/10, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
2. Halcyon Commons Play Dates for Toddlers and Preschoolers (Next
Dates: Saturdays, Oct. 10 & 24, 4–5:30 p.m.)
3. A Halcyon Halloween: Saturday, 10/31, Parade at Halcyon Commons,
6-6:30 p.m., followed by trick-or-treating, 6:30 - 9 p.m.
4. Nic Nak Liquors Link
5. ZAB Hearing on Ashby/Telegraph Project This Thurs. 10/8
6. Halcyon Honey Available!
7. Neighborhood Dream & Meditation Inner Work Group Forming
8. Multi-Household Yard Sale, Sat. 10/17, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 2321 Webster
(at Halcyon)
9. Crime Watch Updates: A Creepy Encounter on Halcyon; Plant Stolen on
Prince; Bicycle Stolen on Ashby
10. Disaster Prep Communications Drill, Sat. 10/17, 9-11 a.m.
11. Free Monthly Tai Chi Chih Practice at Halcyon Commons, Sun. 10/23,
at 11 a.m.
12. Councilmember Kriss Worthington on Rededicating BRT Funds to
Reduce Bus Service Cuts
13. Le Conte Neighborhood Assn. Meeting, Thurs. 10/15, 7:30-9 p.m.

* For Your Calendar: HNA Dates for 2009
* City of Berkeley: Useful Contact Information
* Halcyon Neighborhood Association's Guiding Principles

Editor's Introductory Note:

My apologies for the delay in getting out an E-News over the past five
weeks (and for the announcements missed during that period). I've run
into major technical issues sending to multiple addresses. After
ridiculous amounts of time spent trying to resolve the technicalities,
I'm having to switch formats, and this is the first E-News going out
via VerticalResponse. I hope it makes it through to everyone!

—Nancy Carleton, HNA Co-Chair and E-News Editor

* * * * * * * * * * * *
1. Big Work Party in Halcyon Commons & Surrounding Neighborhood, This
Sat. 10/10, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

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

Chat with neighbors & UC student volunteers from Cal's Berkeley
Project while we weed, mulch, 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 get our precious common space ready for
the winter months!

Note: If there's a public area in the larger neighborhood where you'd
especially like to see trash picked up or graffiti removed, please
consider volunteering for an hour to lead a student crew out to clean
it up!

* * * * * * * * * * * *
2. Halcyon Commons Play Dates for Toddlers and Preschoolers (Next
Dates: Saturdays, Oct. 10 & 24, 4–5:30 p.m.)

Come to Halcyon Commons to play with the neighbors. We'll have
impromptu games for small people and their grown-ups. Communal toys
and snacks are a welcome addition to the good time! Questions?
Contact Rose Lynn & Susan at halcyonplaydate@gmail.com.

* * * * * * * * * * * *
3. A Halcyon Halloween: Sat. 10/31, Parade at Halcyon Commons, 6-6:30
p.m., followed by trick-or-treating, 6:30-9 p.m.

Editor's note: A few neighbors have pulled together a suggestion for
making our neighborhood more Halloween-friendly.

Hello Neighbors,

This year will mark the first ever Halcyon Halloween for kids and
adults. We have two ways to participate: (1) simply get some treats of
your choosing and turn on your light and/or (2) bring your child for a
parade in the park. This is a small trial run to test the level of
interest in the neighborhood; if the participation is high we can make
more plans next year (potluck maybe and/or pumpkin carving together).

When: Saturday 10/31 starting at 6 p.m. in the park AND/OR 6:30-9 p.m.
at your house to host trick-or-treating.

The goal: Provide a trick-or-treat experience for kids in the
neighborhood as well as fun for all others who love Halloween

Participation is simple: IF your household would like to participate
in trick-or-treating, then please turn on your porch light, grab some
treats/prizes, and decorate if you feel like it. IF you'd rather NOT
have ghouls and goblins at your front door, then please turn off your
front porch light (and other lights inside at the front of the house
if possible).

Costume parade:
6 p.m.: Gather in Halcyon Commons park near the picnic table
6:15: Begin parade for 10-15 minutes, then toddlers and those who
don't eat sugar go home
Trick-or-treating:
6:30: Trick-or-treating around the park homes and surrounding blocks
for 30 minutes in small mixed-age groups
7 p.m.: Younger kids go home (and everyone "says good-bye" to make
this possible for their parents without temper tantrums)
Older kids can then continue on together for more trick-or-treating in
the neighborhood and/or go off to other activities.
9 p.m: Suggested time to end all trick-or-treating. End earlier if
appropriate for your household: just turn off your lights.

Happy Halloween!

* * * * * * * * * * * *
4. Nic Nak Liquors Link

Editor's note: The East Lorin Neighborhood Association and other
concerned neighbors have been tracking the possible reopening of Nic
Nak Liquors. While HNA hasn't taken a position, neighbors may be
interested in learning more.

http://cts.vresp.com/c/?BerkeleyPartnersforP/270643175b/3a1db999f2/2c1f4aa01c

* * * * * * * * * * * *
5. ZAB Hearing on Ashby/Telegraph Project This Thurs. 10/8

Editor's note: While HNA will not be taking a position on the
potentially controversial aspects of the development at Ashby and
Telegraph since there is a range of views in the neighborhood, we did
pass on some comments, concerns, and desires submitted by neighbors
earlier in the process and encouraged design improvements and open
space mitigations.

Zoning Adjustments Board Meeting
Thursday, 10/8/2009, 7-11 p.m.
2134 Martin Luther King Jr. Way (Old City Hall)
http://cts.vresp.com/c/?BerkeleyPartnersforP/270643175b/3a1db999f2/9507839283/id=13104

Public hearing on 3001 Telegraph Ave.: 5-story mixed-use, 38 dwelling
units, 4039 sq. ft. ground floor commercial space, 42 parking spaces
on the corner of Ashby and Telegraph where the old gas station was.

* * * * * * * * * * * *
6. Halcyon Honey Available!

Prince Street neighbor Bruce Wicinas submitted the following
announcement.

For sale: Organic, raw honey made from the flowers of your gardens.
Arrangements will be as before.
Pint: $6.50
Half-pint $3.50 (few are available.)
$.50 credit for returned jars.
Limit: 3 pints per customer.

The "Honey Store" is open daily, 6:30-7:30 p.m., or all day Friday,
Saturday, Sunday. We suggest you phone before coming to make certain
we are here, see that we have not run out, and learn our address if
you have not visited before.
"Halcyon Hives" 848-1797

* * * * * * * * * * * *
7. Neighborhood Dream & Meditation Inner Work Group Forming

Editor's note: An East Lorin neighbor who often participates with our
neighborhood events submitted the following announcement.

Dreams and the Journey of the Soul:
A dream and meditation inner work group

In our group, we'll cultivate presence by beginning with a silent
meditation, then oil the wheels of our nonrational processes with a
brief period for spontaneous writing or drawing. Then we'll explore
archetypes and symbols through the sharing of dreams. We will adopt
the standard 10 Guidelines for Dream Work as articulated by
Dreamworker Jeremy Taylor, as summarized in his book The Living
Labyrinth. The group is free, participants will be selected by
interview process, and we will meet once a month in the
Berkeley/Oakland area, day/time/place yet to be determined.

Contact person and facilitator: Deborah Mikuteit, MA, Transpersonal
Counseling Psychology, JFK University.
fiddlehigher@yahoo.com
510-420-8983

* * * * * * * * * * * *
8. Multi-Household Yard Sale, Sat. 10/17, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 2321 Webster
(at Halcyon)

Several neighbors at the big apartment building at 2321 Webster are
having a multi-household yard sale on Sat. 10/17, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. If
anyone else would like to bring their stuff over and join in the sale,
contact Ann at 649-1361. Items for sale include women's clothing
(plus-sizes available), shoes (sizes 9 & 10 wide and extra wide),
household items, cassettes, flower pots, and miscellaneous items.

* * * * * * * * * * * *
9. Crime Watch Updates: A Creepy Encounter on Halcyon; Plant Stolen on
Wheeler; Bicycle Stolen on Ashby

Editor's note: Neighbors submitted the following neighborhood watch
reports.

Creepy Encounter on Halcyon Court, Thurs. 9/10:
"I was hanging out on our front stoop with my 5-year-old son, by
Halcyon Commons park a bit after 8 p.m. A white male, in his early
40s, dirty blonde hair in pony tail, medium build, 5'8, wearing tan
shorts, red t-shirt (he later put on a green fatigue jacket),
approached us, coming close to our son. My son noticed that he had a
sack tied around his waist with small balls in it. The man seemed high
or drunk. He asked me if the boy was my son. I said yes. He said, 'He
doesn't look like you.' I said that a lot of people think he does. The
man started to get agitated, fast. In a more a forceful voice, he
said, 'I know people, and he doesn't look like you. He's not your
son.' The man moved closer to my son and stuck out his hand. Our son
took his hand, like a handshake, but the guy didn't leave. I got my
son and hustled him inside. Something about the guy didn't seem quite
right. After a few minutes, I walked around the house to make sure the
guy wasn't hanging around. He was in the bushes just across the street
in the park, staring at the house. He then stepped out onto the street
and came towards me aggressively. I started towards him as well and
asked him if he had a problem. He said he did. For whatever reason, he
then walked away suddenly towards the wooden bench. I came inside and
called the police. The police arrived about an hour after the
incident. Apparently, our regular beat cop was on vacation, and the
replacement didn't respond. Another female cop saw the listing of the
event, sped over, and took it very seriously. She decided to spend
much of the night in the park area to make sure he didn't return. She
was going to make sure our regular beat cop knows about this so she
can keep an eye out. She also said that there has been an uptick in
these types of 'creepy' incidents being called in, so to be aware of
that. If you notice anyone who fits the description hanging around the
park or approaching children, please call the cops." [Editor's note:
No report of the man being seen since.]

Potted plant stolen off Wheeler Street porch:
"A very minor (and odd) little theft from our house on the night of
9/13: a large potted plant was taken off our front porch. It was a
largish (~10" tall, ~10" diameter) aqua-blue ceramic pot with a
Lantana plant in it. There are several other potted plants on our
porch, but this was the nicest pot. I reported the theft to the BPD,
but don't expect to ever see my pot again except maybe for sale at
Ashby Flea Market."

Bicycle Stolen from Ashby:
"Bicycle taken from house off Ashby late Thurs. 8/28 or early Fri.
8/29. He/she walked in through the front porch. I believe the dog was
being walked at the time."

* * * * * * * * * * * *
10. Disaster Prep Communications Drill, Sat. 10/17, 9-11 a.m.

On the 20th anniversary of the Loma Prieta Earthquake, the City of
Berkeley will be conducting a disaster preparedness communications
drill. HNA, which hosts one of the City's Disaster Supply Caches, will
be participating by testing our walkie-talkies from Halcyon Commons
(Halcyon Court at Prince) between 9 and 11 a.m. that Saturday. A few
Halcyon neighbors plan to be there so far, but if more folks come,
we'll be able to test taking the walkie-talkies around to surrounding
streets. Come on out if you're available!

* * * * * * * * * * * *
11. Free Monthly Tai Chi Chih Practice at Halcyon Commons, Sun. 10/25,
at 11 a.m.

Free monthly Tai Chi Chih Practice (fourth Sundays)
Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince)
Facilitated by Prince Street neighbor Judith Schwartz, 510-843-2062;
http://cts.vresp.com/c/?BerkeleyPartnersforP/270643175b/3a1db999f2/8e6f8cdaf8

* * * * * * * * * * * *
12. Councilmember Kriss Worthington on Rededicating BRT Funds to
Reduce Bus Service Cuts

Editor's note: The following information was received from
Councilmember Kriss Worthington's office. HNA doesn't have a position
on this issue but encourages neighbors to become informed. See also
http://cts.vresp.com/c/?BerkeleyPartnersforP/270643175b/3a1db999f2/9c97515307/headline=AC-Transit-to-Request-Use-of-BRT-Funds-to-Stave-Off-Service-Cuts

AC Transit has been hit with massive budget cuts and is considering
dramatic reductions in bus service. There is a proposal to avoid most
of these cuts by moving millions of dollars from BRT Capital funds to
operating funds. It involves possibly moving up to $35 million in CMAQ
funds and $45.6 million in RM2 funds to avoid service reductions. The
urgency to stop these bus cuts requires speedy funding.

Please support this transfer of funds to operating funds to avoid the
AC Transit cuts. Call the AC Transit Board:
Rocky Fernandez (President) 510-891-7143
H.E. Christian Peeples (Vice President) 510-891-7151
Joe Wallace (Ward 1) 510-891-7143
Greg Harper (Ward 2) 510-891-7145
Elsa Ortiz (Ward 3) 510-891-7211
Jeff Davis 510-891-7171
Joel B. Young 510-891-7146

Kriss Worthington, 510-981-7170

* * * * * * * * * * * *
13. Le Conte Neighborhood Assn. Meeting, Thurs. 10/15, 7:30-9 p.m.

The Le Conte Neighborhood Association will be meeting on Thurs 10/15
at the Le Conte School from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Besides a report from our
Police beat officer, we will be discussing several major property
developments in our District or close enough to affect us. Contact
KarlReeh@gmail.com.

* * * * * * * * * * * ** * * * * * * * * * * *
* For Your Calendar: HNA Dates for 2009

Sat. 10/10, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Big Work Party in Halcyon Commons (Halcyon
at Prince) and surrounding neighborhood in coordination with Cal
student volunteers from the Berkeley Project
Thurs. 10/29, 7 p.m., SNCPC Annual Meeting (elect sector
representatives to Crime Prevention Council), North Oakland Sr.
Center, 58th St. and MLK Jr. Way (with HNA's participation)
Sun. 12/6, 4-5:30 p.m., HNA Steering Committee meeting to set dates
for 2010, John Steere's house, 2329 Webster
Sun. 1/24/10, 5:00-8:45 p.m., Post-Holiday Progressive Potluck, four
locations TBD

* * * * * * * * * * * *
* 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://cts.vresp.com/c/?BerkeleyPartnersforP/270643175b/3a1db999f2/b74da592a6

In the Halcyon neighborhood: west of Fulton is Beat 10; east of Fulton
is Beat 9.

Link to crime stats:
Berkeley:
http://cts.vresp.com/c/?BerkeleyPartnersforP/270643175b/3a1db999f2/3c316a362c

Link to police bulletins:
http://cts.vresp.com/c/?BerkeleyPartnersforP/270643175b/3a1db999f2/d50f78f9c6

Other City Departments:

City Manager's Office: 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 the City Council, use 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 Jesse Arreguin JArreguin@ci.berkeley.ca.us
Councilmember Laurie Capitelli LCapitelli@ci.berkeley.ca.us
Councilmember Susan Wengraf SWengraf@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 the west (except for Woolsey between
Wheeler and Shattuck)

Councilmember Kriss Worthington (District 7) 981-7170
East side of Wheeler to the 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
zab@ci.berkeley.ca.us
(It's best if at all possible 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-News, 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-News: The HNA E-News forwards
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, crime watch, disaster preparedness meetings, and
work parties in Halcyon Commons park. To prevent spam, HNA 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 at
halcyon92@gmail.com. If you would like to view previous newsletters
online, please visit
http://cts.vresp.com/c/?BerkeleyPartnersforP/270643175b/3a1db999f2/5141025900

To submit items for the newsletter: Email succinct, unformatted
content or links (no graphics or attachments please!) to HNA E-News
Editor Nancy Carleton at halcyon92@gmail.com. Crime-watch reports and
news about neighbors (births, new jobs, announcements about home
businesses or creative projects) are especially welcome. Due to the
volunteer nature of the endeavor, the E-News does not 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). The E-News is published as items accumulate and
as the editor's time permits rather than on a regular schedule; submit
your item early if it relates to a future event, and keep it brief,
and there's a greater chance it will be included.

HNA is an adopt-a-park affiliate with the nonprofit Berkeley Partners
for Parks (BPFP).

______________________________________________________________________
If you no longer wish to receive these newsletters, please email
halcyon92@gmail.com (preferred method so we can keep our database
current) with unsubscribe in the subject line or simply click on the
following link:
http://cts.vresp.com/u?270643175b/3a1db999f2/mlpftw

______________________________________________________________________
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Halcyon Neighborhood Association (HNA)
(an affiliate of the nonprofit BPFP)
3044 Halcyon Court, Berkeley CA 94705

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HNA E-News: Live Music and Potluck in Park, Sun. 9/13, 4-6; crime watch reports; Whole Foods meeting; and other neighborhood news

2009-09-04T13:22:00.000-07:00

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

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. Neighborhood Potluck/Celebration with Live Music, Sunday, September 13, 4-6 p.m.

2. Halcyon Commons Play Dates for Toddlers and Preschoolers (Next Dates: Saturdays, September 12 & 26, 4-5:30 p.m.)

3. Halcyon Book Club: Next Steps?

4. The Controversy over Whole Foods Market's CEO John Mackey's Op-Ed on Healthcare Reform (including a note from our local store)

5. Input Sought for Next Week's Quarterly Meeting with Whole Foods Market

6. Save the Date: Meeting on BRT "Locally Preferred Alternative," Thursday, Sept. 24, 7 p.m., Willard Cafetorium

7. Update on the Laudromat Plans from the Southside Lofts Home Owners Association

8. Crime Watch Report: Burglary on Wheeler through Second-Story Window

9. City of Berkeley Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program

10. City of Berkeley Offering Energy Improvement "Start at Home Workshops"

11. City of Berkeley Offering Free Emergency Preparedness (CERT) Courses

12. Message from Community Health Commission Chair regarding Alta Bates Cardiac Catherization Lab & Possible Hospital Closure

* For Your Calendar: HNA Dates Scheduled for 2009

* Disaster Prep Supply Cache Wish List

* City of Berkeley: Useful Contact Information

* Halcyon Neighborhood Association's Guiding Principles

Editor's Introductory Note:

A lot of news, but this note will be brief: Please mark your calendars for our upcoming neighborhood party, potluck, and celebration (with live music from Evelie Posch & Friends!) in the park, scheduled for Sunday, September 13 (see item 1). And thanks to all for well wishes for the full recovery of our dog, Ginger (she's making great progress after a scary bout with vestibular syndrome).

Happy Labor Day weekend to all!

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

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

1. Neighborhood Potluck/Celebration with Live Music, Sunday, September 13, 4-6 p.m.

Neighborhood Celebration with Live Music and Community Potluck in the Park!

Lively Acoustic Folk and Torch Songs by the talented singer/songwriter Evelie Posch & Friends

Sunday, September 13, 4-6 p.m. (music starts at 4:30)

Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince)

Come enjoy the spirit of your community and the park that our neighborhood made through good music and food in Halcyon!

Please bring quality food and/or drink to share for at least 8 (including serving utensils).

Potluck suggestions: Appetizer: G-K * Main Dish: L-S * Salad: T-Z * Dessert A-F

(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!

No charge to attend, but donations for the musicians will be gratefully accepted. HNA will be supplying the plates/napkins/cups; thanks to Whole Foods Market for the donation of delicious cake. Please join us for this annual celebration in the park.

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

2. Halcyon Commons Play Dates for Toddlers and Preschoolers (Next Dates: Saturdays, September 12 & 26, 4-5:30 p.m.)

Editor's note: I'm told that four families participated in the first play date, and eight families in the second. To keep this wonderful project growing, please contact Rose Lynn and Susan even if you can't make the scheduled dates; that way, you'll be on the list for future play dates.

Neighbor Families:

Halcyon Commons Play Dates for Toddlers & Preschoolers, Saturdays Sept. 12th & Sept. 26th, 4-5:30 p.m.

Come to Halcyon Commons park (Halcyon Court at Prince) to play with the neighbors. We'll have impromptu games for small people and their grown-ups. Communal toys and snacks are a welcome addition to the good time! Questions? Contact Rose Lynn & Susan at <halcyonplaydate@gmail.com>

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3. Halcyon Book Club: Next Steps?

Editor's Note: Is the Halcyon Book Club dream fading? Or was summer just a difficult time for folks to make a meeting? The neighbors who got the ball rolling on the book club would like to continue if others are interested in helping make a Halcyon Book Club happen. A starting point may be setting up a listserv to share titles of books you love, as well as to kick around ideas about timing for book club meetings. Please email Laura West at <lauragortonwest@yahoo.com> if you'd like to be included as part of a listserv to share ideas about good books you've read or possibly to schedule an in-person book-club meeting.

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4. The Controversy over Whole Foods Market's CEO John Mackey's Op-Ed on Healthcare Reform (including a note from our local store)

Editor's Note: As many of you are no doubt aware, the CEO of Whole Foods Market, John Mackey, published an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal giving a view of healthcare reform that has proven to be quite controversial. Some advocates for a strong public option as a crucial element of meaningful healthcare reform have called for a boycott of Whole Foods Market in response. Many neighbors have expressed their upset over, and profound disagreement with, the Mackey editorial, and I've yet to hear from a neighbor who agrees with Mackey's point of view. On a personal level, as a self-employed person with a serious autoimmune disorder who has seen my insurance premiums raised to absurd levels, I share these concerns, and I have expressed them directly to Whole Foods Market, including to our local store's team leaders. That said, as co-chair of Halcyon Neighborhood Association and as the editor of the HNA E-News, I wear a different hat. As I've pointed out many times, HNA does not take stands on controversial issues unless there is near unanimity among neighbors (see our Guiding Principles published toward the end of each E-News). While following this principle can be challenging at times, it has allowed a greater range of neighbors to feel comfortable participating in our efforts to improve our neighborhood and build community than would otherwise be the case. My communication to date on the Whole Foods issue with several dozen neighbors suggests that almost all neighbors probably do share a disagreement with Mackey's point of view on healthcare reform, but also suggests that there is a range of viewpoints among these same neighbors concerning whether a boycott of our local store is the appropriate response. And regardless of how the national issue is resolved, the local Whole Foods store remains our neighbor; most local team members have done their best over the years to be good neighbors (and even though many of them personally disagree with their CEO, they are the ones who are bearing the brunt of the outrage over Mackey's editorial, especially in a city like Berkeley). In addition, HNA's Guiding Principles call on us to work in partnership with neighboring businesses on nonpartisan issues such as crime watch, disaster prep, and neighborhood cleanup. So the bottom line is that it's up to each of you to determine whether or not you personally feel called upon to spend your food dollars elsewhere in light of the Mackey editorial, but HNA will not be taking a formal position on the boycott. In this section, I've provided some links to articles with a range of viewpoints to help inform your decisions (and you can obviously Google to find even more). You're also free to send your comments to <halcyon92@gmail.com>, and we will pass them on to the local store's representatives (see item 4 regarding our upcoming quarterly meeting with Whole Foods Market). Even better, be sure to send them directly to Whole Foods itself (see http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/ for contact information)!

The John Mackey editorial:

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204251404574342170072865070.html

In favor of the boycott:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/ben-wyskida/why-im-done-with-whole-fo_b_259716.html

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=119099537379

Against the boycott:

http://www.newmajority.com/a-reply-from-michael-pollan

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dave-murphy/so-you-want-health-care-r_b_270615.htmls

* * *

And a note from our local Whole Foods Market Community Relations Team Leader:

Dear Friends,

As you are probably aware, our CEO John Mackey recently authored an Op/Ed piece that was published in the Wall Street Journal on the topic of healthcare reform. The article, in which John shared his personal views, clearly disappointed and angered many of you.

Please accept our apologies. Health Care is an emotional, and for many, a very personal issue in our country right now. As in our society overall, there are many opinions inside the Whole Foods Market family on what is the best course of action. John, however, expressed his views publicly. We understand that his leadership role at Whole Foods Market means our company is, by default, connected to his personal writings. We also understand that you, our customers and friends, have high expectations of us and are right to voice your concerns when it appears we may have strayed from our mission. We welcome that feedback and all of our team members take it to heart.

I have been and am continuing to send your and other local customers' (as well as our own Team Members') comments to our central office, so rest assured your feedback is being heard directly by our senior leadership. The Berkeley store's connection to our neighborhood is important to us, and it is our sincere hope that you will continue not only to make Whole Foods Market your preferred place to shop for your family, but also to think of us as a vital part and partner in the community.

Thank you very much for your support and understanding. We treasure being part of such a wonderfully diverse and passionate community.

Sincerely,

Nick Heustis

Marketing and Community Relations Team Leader

Whole Foods Market / 3000 Telegraph Ave. Berkeley CA 94705

(510)649-1333 ext 261

Nick.Heustis@wholefoods.com

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5. Input Sought for Next Week's Quarterly Meeting with Whole Foods Market

Editor's Note: Several members of HNA's Steering Committee, along with a couple of neighbors who live very close to Whole Foods, have been meeting on a quarterly basis with Whole Foods Market representatives to address issues of mutual interest. The week before each meeting, I publish a notice in the E-News so that neighbors can pass on concerns -- or report on progress made -- on issues such as parking, litter, noise, crime, graffiti, etc. Through these regular meetings, we have been able to make progress on some issues that were frustrating nearby residents. If you have a concern you'd like us to pass on, please email <halcyon92@gmail.com> by midday on Tuesday, September 8. Please make it clear whether it's okay to pass on your contact information with your comments or if you'd prefer to remain anonymous. (In light of the Mackey editorial discussed in item 4, feel free to weigh in on that topic as well, and we will pass your comments on.)

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6. Save the Date: Meeting on BRT "Locally Preferred Alternative," Thursday, Sept. 24, 7 p.m., Willard Cafetorium

George Beier, the president of Willard Neighborhood Association, forwarded the following save-the-date announcement:

"The City of Berkeley has asked the Willard Neighborhood Association to host a BRT meeting on 9/24 at 7 p.m. at the Willard Cafetorium. The City has come up with a "Locally Preferred Alternative" and wants input as to the bus route, where the stops are, and neighborhood concerns and suggestions for the implementation of the BRT, particularly in regards to our respective neighborhoods. At the end of this process, the City may decide not to implement the BRT at all. This meeting, however, is designed to answer the question - "if this BRT is to be implemented, what do you think of this plan to do it?" Beth Green is organizing it from the City's end and she's asked us to invite people from Halcyon, Le Conte, Willard, CENA, and Bateman. "

More details to follow . . .

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

7. Update on the Laudromat Plans from the Southside Lofts Home Owners Association

Editor's Note: Earlier in the summer, HNA declined to take a positive in favor of or against the addition of a laundromat in the mixed-use building at Telegraph and Dowling since some neighbors strongly favored the return of a laundromat, but there wasn't "near-unanimity" pro or con (remember those Guiding Principles!). However, now that the laundromat project is moving forward, there may be public safety issues (such as hours of operation and whether it would be desirable to have a staff person on premises in evening hours) that HNA may choose to address. If you have strong feelings about this issue, please email <halcyon92@gmail.com> so we can gauge neighborhood sentiment. The following letter was received recently from the president of the building's home owners' association.

Dear Neighbors:

I am the president of the Southside Lofts Home Owners Association. We are the condo complex where Cafe Mokka is located. I'm writing about the laundromat which is presently being developed in our complex.

Normal procedures were not observed when the permits were granted for this build-out, so it occurred to me that neighborhood input may never have been solicited about this project. I wanted to ask if you had any questions about this commercial development. Has the laundromat developer been in contact with you? If not, and if you have questions, please let me know. I would be happy to bring you and the HNA up-to-speed.

As currently proposed, the laundomat will be unstaffed, and open until 10 p.m. every night. As you may know, there were two armed robberies in our complex in the last month (the cell phone store), so it is only prudent to posit how an unstaffed, late-night facility may impact crime, litter, vandalism, parking and the general "livability" of the neighborhood.

Do let me know if I can be of assistance.

Steven Rossen

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8. Crime Watch Report: Burglary on Wheeler through Second-Story Window

A Wheeler near Woolsey neighbor submitted the following report:

"Just thought I would let you pass on that my house was robbed on August 10th at about 9 p.m. The robber climbed up a brand new trellis and arbor I had built on the back wall of my house and through a second-story window. He spent quite a bit of time inside the house collecting items to take, pulling a sheet off the bed and spreading it on the floor to fill before he tripped the alarm and ran out of the house and down the street with a backpack on with several of our things. He got away with some silver rings, a camera, a TV remote and cord, and who knows what else. Luckily, way less than he was hoping to get. We had been away for several days. He may have noticed us packing the car to leave. Anyway, beware."

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9. City of Berkeley Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program

Editor's Note: Katherine Brown with the City of Berkeley submitted the following announcement.

My name is Katherine Brown and I am the program coordinator for the City of Berkeley Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program. I just wanted to share a bit about our program and offer lead poisoning prevention resources that may be helpful to you. We are located to 1947 Center St. 2nd Floor and Berkeley and can be reached at 510-981-5289. We provides services to Berkeley residents as they relate to reducing lead exposure in children. Services range from case management for children with blood lead levels above 10 ug/dL and health education for children with levels between 5-9.5 ug/dL.

We also provide information and linkages to resources for property owners on lead-safe practices that are offered through the Alameda County Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (such as free lead-testing kits and In-Home Consultations for property owners, HEPA-Vac lending service, free lead-safe painting/remodeling classes, etc.). Lead poisoning prevention presentations and trainings for your group are available upon request. For more information on our program, or to refer a client to our services, please feel free to contact us or visit our website at http://www.cityofberkeley.info/ContentDisplay.aspx?id=11244

Katherine Brown, MPH
Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program Coordinator
City of Berkeley Public Health Division
Tel: 510-981-5289

E-mail: kbrown@ci.berkeley.ca.us

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10. City of Berkeley Offering Energy Improvement "Start at Home Workshops"

Editor's Note: The City of Berkeley is circulating the following information.

START AT HOME WORKSHOPS:

Berkeley Plans to Use Stimulus Funds for Home Energy Improvements

Do you live in a drafty Berkeley home? Not only is your leaky home letting all your warm air out, it may also be letting dust and contaminants in! City of Berkeley is sponsoring FREE workshops to teach you about how to protect and insulate your home to save energy, money, and improve the overall health, comfort and performance of your home.

Learn about how to:

· Improve Comfort

· Save Energy & Money

· Improve Indoor Air Quality

· Finance Energy Efficiency Retrofits

· Take Advantage of Incentives and Rebates

Meet local home performance contractors and energy specialists. Presentations by City Staff, PG&E, The Ecology Center, and SmartSolar. Free Snacks and Giveaways!

Come to one of the following three FREE workshops in your neighborhood:

Thursday Sept 17th St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal 2024 Ashby Ave., 7- 8:30 p.m.

Thursday October 8th St. Johns Presbyterian Church 2727 College Ave., 7-8:30 p.m.

Thursday October 22nd Epworth Unified Methodist Church 1953 Hopkins St., 7-8:30 p.m.

To RSVP, call 510-981-7473 or email <mschwartz@cityofberkeley.info> or for more information, visit the City of Berkeley's website at http://www.cityofberkeley.info.sustainable

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11. City of Berkeley Offering Free Emergency Preparedness (CERT) Courses

Editor's Note: Be sure to sign up early if you'd like to help strengthen our neighborhood's emergency preparedness by taking one of the free City courses being offered.

A schedule of CERT classes for September and October and enrollment instructions can be found on the Office of Emergency Services website. Note that, in addition to Saturday classes, we have added weekday daytime as well as evening classes to accommodate the varying schedules of participants. We may be adding to this schedule as resources permit.

http://www.cityofberkeley.info/ContentDisplay.aspx?id=3920

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12. Message from Community Health Commission Chair regarding Alta Bates Cardiac Catherization Lab & Possible Hospital Closure

Editor's Note: The following message was forwarded by a Bateman neighbor.

I am currently chair of the Berkeley Health Commission and am planning a special community meeting to discuss the implications of the decision to close the cardiac catherization lab at Alta Bates rather than replace the aging equipment. Our concern goes beyond this closure in that this may the first step of many to close Alta Bates. The CEO of the hospital has recently told employees that the closure is part of their (Sutter) 30 year plan.

The meeting is planned for September 17th at 6:30 p.m. at the South Berkeley Senior Center (Ashby and Ellis) and we would like to let as many residents of Berkeley as possible know about the meeting.

I am hoping that you can send this information out to your listserv of neighborhood residents and possibly lead me in the right direction to other neighborhood leaders and groups in Berkeley.

Please feel free to call me if you have any questions. During the day, I can be reached at 567-5715, and in the evening at 540-7085. We are still lining up speakers. Once that is solidified I will develop a flyer that can be distributed in the neighborhood.

I look forward to hearing from you and discussing this issue and its effects on the Berkeley community.

Sincerely,
Susan Bergman, M.Ed.

Chair, Berkeley Community Health Commission

510-540-7085

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* For Your Calendar: HNA Dates Scheduled for 2009

Dates set as of September 2009 (verify a couple weeks before event by checking HNA E-News):

Sunday, September 13, 4-6 p.m., Neighborhood Celebration with Live Music (Evelie Posch & Friends) and Potluck in Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince)

Saturday, October 10, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Big Work Party in Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince) and surrounding neighborhood in coordination with Cal student volunteers from the Berkeley Project

Thursday, October 29, 7 p.m., SNCPC Annual Meeting (elect sector representatives to Crime Prevention Council), North Oakland Sr. Center, 58th St. and MLK Jr. Way (with HNA's participation)

Sunday, December 6, 4-5:30 p.m., HNA Steering Committee meeting to set dates for 2010, John Steere's house, 2329 Webster

Sunday, January 24, 2010, 5:00-8:45 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, 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); Work Gloves; Large Camping Tents (with all parts!); Coleman or similar Gas or Propane Stove; 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:

Berkeley: http://www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/police

Link to police bulletins:

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

Other City Departments:

City Manager's Office: 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 Jesse Arreguin <JArreguin@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,

Councilmember Laurie Capitelli <LCapitelli@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,

Councilmember Susan Wengraf <SWengraf@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)

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

* Halcyon Neighborhood Association's Guiding Principles

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 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, crime watch, 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 at <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 please!) to HNA E-Newsletter Editor Nancy Carleton at <halcyon92@gmail.com>. Crime-watch reports and news about neighbors (births, new jobs, announcements about home businesses or creative projects) is especially welcome. Please note that due to the volunteer nature of the endeavor, the E-News 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). Also, please note that the E-News is published as items accumulate and as the editor's time permits rather than on a regular schedule; submit your item early if it relates to a future event, and there's a greater chance it will be included.

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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HNA E-News: Saturday Yard Sales; Suspect Apprehended Thanks to Neighborhood Help; and Other Neighborhood News

2009-08-13T17:13:00.000-07:00

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Halcyon Neighborhood Association E-Newsletter

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

1. Garage Sale to Benefit Community Policing, Sat. Aug. 15 at Bushrod Park (with update on the Shattuck Neighborhood Crime Prevention Council and HNA)

2. Halcyon Commons Play Dates for Toddlers and Preschoolers (Next Date: Saturday, August 15, 4-5:30 p.m.)

3. Multi-Household Yard Sale, 2325 Webster at Halcyon, Saturday, August 15, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

4. Next Halcyon Book Club Meeting, Sunday, Aug. 16th, 4-6 p.m.

5. Free Monthly Tai Chi Chih Practice at Halcyon Commons Sunday, August 23, at 11 a.m.

6. Deakin Street Neighbor's Improv Theater Shows, Third Friday of Each Month

7. Crime Watch Report: Armed Robbery of Telegraph Wireless (at Dowling) Results in Arrest on Deakin with the Help of Two Prince Street Neighbors!

8. Crime Watch Report: Vicious Purse Snatching near Black & White Liquor on Adeline (plus report of Telegraph Purse Snatching in Temescal)

9. Link to Halcyon Neighbor's Commentary on the Downtown Referendum (plus links to other opinions)

10. Whole Foods Update, including report of Mugging on Ashby Side of Parking Lot

11. Bay Bridge to be Closed to Traffic over Labor Day Weekend

* For Your Calendar: HNA Dates Scheduled for 2009

* Disaster Prep Supply Cache Wish List

* City of Berkeley: Useful Contact Information

* Halcyon Neighborhood Association's Guiding Principles

Editor's Introductory Note:

I'm noting an increase in crime reports in our neighborhood and neighborhoods close by, so please be alert. At our well-attended National Night Out event at the beginning of the month, Councilmember Kriss Worthington and the police reminded us how many burglaries take place through open doors and windows, so practice good security despite the balmy weather. And be aware of the potential for purse snatchings and muggings, especially in the Telegraph and Shattuck/Adeline corridors. Kudos to those at Telegraph Wireless and the neighbors whose prompt actions resulted in the arrest and identification of a suspect in armed robberies in our neighborhood last weekend (often one suspect in responsible for multiple incidents, so each arrest can make a big difference) (see item 7)! Please don't hesitate to report anything or anyone suspicious that you notice (see the Police emergency and nonemergency numbers at the end of each E-News). It's one of the main ways we can look out for one another!

Stay safe!

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

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1. Garage Sale to Benefit Community Policing, Sat. Aug. 15 at Bushrod Park (with update on the Shattuck Neighborhood Crime Prevention Council and HNA)

SHATTUCK NEIGHBORHOOD CRIME PRVENTION COUNCIL

Garage Sale to benefit Community Policing

Sat. Aug 15th, 2009 , 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

BUSHROD PARK, WEST OF TENNIS COURTS

(Shattuck Ave., between 59th and 60th Streets)

One person's cast-offs are often another person's treasures. Help the support the joint efforts of community members working with police to both prevent and fight crime. Donate items that we can sell to raise money to pay for the activities of the Shattuck Neighborhood Crime Prevention Council (SNCPC - Oakland Police Beat 11 AND Berkeley Halcyon Neighborhood in a cross-border cooperative effort). Volunteers from our neighborhoods meet monthly with our local police to identify proactive projects and crime-related issues that need attention. Our normal expenses include the Hot Line so neighbors can track issues to work on with police, flyers to notify residents about meetings, photocopy costs, meeting supplies, refreshments for the General Meetings, equipment, community improvement projects, support of the Bushrod Recreation Center activities, and funding youth summer activities in our area.

Please donate clean working items in good condition. Junk will not sell. The Salvation Army picks up unsold items after the sale, but they will not take non-functioning or unclean items. Items that will help us:

clothing

books

kid stuff

small appliances

kitchen gadgets, cookware

computers, printers

electronics

records, cassettes, CDs

tools--hand and power

gardening items

furniture

carpets

To make things work smoothly, we ask that you:

- deliver your items to Bushrod Park, (Shattuck Ave. side) between8 am and 9 am on Saturday, August 15th.

- donate only items that are clean and sales worthy (especially clothing, cookware,appliances, furniture)

- label electrical and mechanical items stating whether they are functional and include operating manuals what sorts of repairs are needed, etc.. Please be very specific.

- tape or tie operating instructions to the item when they are available

- tie or tape things together that should not be separated ( shoes, gloves, etc.)

If you are unable to transport your items to the sale, call Ozzie Vincent, 654-6673 before the sale to arrange for a pick-up.

Volunteers are also needed for the sale. YOU are invited to come to the park and lend a hand on 8/15. The sale is a friendly and gratifying time with neighbors and passers-by in the best of moods. Everyone enjoys this experience.

Note: Crime issues reported in the Halcyon Neighborhood Association E-News (halcyon92@gmail.com) are included in our monthly meetings with neighbors and police. To contact the SNCPC directly, use the Hot Line - phone messages: 655-6122 OR e-mail: CPBeat11X@aol.com. For more information about the SNCPC, and/or to participate, please contact HNA Neighborhood Watch Coordinator Dawn Trygstad Rubin<familyrubin@comcast.net>.

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

2. Halcyon Commons Play Dates for Toddlers and Preschoolers (Next Date: Saturday, August 15, 4-5:30 p.m.)

Editor's note: Two neighborhood moms, Rose Lynn and Susan, have taken the initiative to begin scheduling some play dates at Halcyon Commons. Even if you can't make the August 15th date, email them so they'll keep you posted on future dates (which I'll also list in the E-News whenever the lead time permits).

Neighbor Families:

Please join us to play! Saturday, Aug. 15th from 4-5:30 at Halcyon Commons park (Halcyon Court at Prince Street). We'll have impromptu games for small people. It will be a chance for neighborhood families with toddlers and preschoolers to connect and set up future neighborhood playtimes. Communal snacks are a welcome addition to the good time! Questions? Contact Rose Lynn & Susan at halcyonplaydate@gmail.com

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

3. Multi-Household Yard Sale, 2325 Webster at Halcyon, Saturday, August 15, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

A Halcyon neighbor announces:

Several neighbors are getting together at 2325 Webster (multiunit building at Halcyon, half a block west of Whole Foods) to hold a Yard Sale featuring:

* Lots of kitchen items, some new

* Pottery

* Handcrafted items from South America

* Tools

* Practical stuff for a college room/apartment

Stop by and say hello! (Contact Susan Hunter at 517-0241 for more information.)

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

4. Next Halcyon Book Club Meeting, Sunday, Aug. 16th, 4-6 p.m.

Editor's Note: The first meeting of the Halcyon Book Club went well by all accounts, and they would welcome new members.

Halcyon Book Club

Sunday, August 16, 4-6 p.m.

The book is Wicked, by Gregory Maguire

Please r.s.v.p. to Laura West at <lauragortonwest@yahoo.com> or 847-9320.

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

5. Free Monthly Tai Chi Chih Practice at Halcyon Commons Sunday, August 23, at 11 a.m.

Tai Chi Chih Practice, Sunday, August 23, 11 a.m.

Halcyon Commons (Halcyon Court at Prince)

This practice is free of charge and open to all who have some familiarity with the 20 Tai Chi Chih forms (19 movements and 1 stance). The intention we hold as we practice is sending chi and goodwill to the park, the neighborhood, our city, our country, and the world. Even if you don't yet know the forms or are in the process of learning them, you may enjoy stopping by and watching or joining in for the easier movements. Others are also welcome to come out to the park and engage in yoga, Qi Gong, Tai Chi Chuan, or whatever your favorite modality might be -- or simply sit in the park and enjoy the passing sights and sounds of summer. Facilitated by Prince Street neighbor Judith Schwartz, 510-843-2062; www.JudithSchwartz.com " [Editor's Note: Judith also offers ongoing classes to teach the Tai Chi forms in her Prince Street gardens; you can contact her for more information.]

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

6. Deakin Street Neighbor's Improv Theater Shows, Third Friday of Each Month

Editor's Note: A Deakin Street neighbor submitted the following announcment:

I would be grateful if you would include an announcement about my improv theater variety shows, held on the third Friday of each month.

Magic Jester Improv Variety Show

Friday, Aug. 21, 8 p.m. (and Friday, September 18, 8 p.m.)

www.magicjestertheater.com

390 27th Street, Oakland

$12 (or $10 if you mention you heard about it through the HNA E-News)

High energy, funny, and full of heart-Magic Jester improv theater performances are entirely made up on the spot, inspired by suggestions from you, the audience. Also featuring music and poetry. Please join us at the Humanist Hall, 390 27th St., between Telegraph and Broadway. There's plenty of street parking and it's only a few blocks from Oakland's 19th St. BART station.

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

7. Crime Watch Report: Armed Robbery of Telegraph Wireless (at Dowling) Results in Arrest on Deakin with the Help of Two Prince Street Neighbors!

The owner of Telegraph Wireless (near Mokka Cafe on Telegraph and Dowling) reported the following:

"I wanted to let everyone know that our store Telegraph Wireless was robbed at gunpoint once again on Saturday, August 8th at around 2 p.m. The [man] came with a hooded ski jacket and pointed a gun in a paper bag. He was told to take the money and not to hurt anyone. . . . [We notified the Police] and tried to keep him in the store as long as possible. . . . On his way out [one of us] threw a couple of things at him and chased him down the street with a baseball bat. With a very helpful neighborhood watch we received many 911 calls and the robber was later apprehended by Berkeley Police. [We] identified him and his clothes were found in a dumpster on Prince and Deakin Street. We also got our cash back. . . . I called [another] employee to identify him, and it seems that it was the same [guy] that robbed us on Wednesday. [We are]

very lucky to be alive, and today we are installing several security measures to hopefully make our place and environment safe/ crime free. I would love to see a security staff present to avoid any future mishaps especially with the new businesses coming. We still have the creepy vision of the masked man, but the business and show must go on, and we will be more prepared next time."

We've also heard from the two Prince Street neighbors who witnessed the suspect running from the crime scene through our neighborhood. Their prompt calls to the police allowed the police to refine their search, resulting in an arrest near the corner of Deakin and Ashby, where the suspect was identified by several witnesses.

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

8. Crime Watch Report: Vicious Purse Snatching near Black & White Liquor on Adeline (plus report of Telegraph Purse Snatching in Temescal)

Two neighbors report:

There was a vicious purse snatching today near the Black & White Liquor store in which a woman was punched in the face and beaten rather badly. This robbery took place 8/5 at about 11 a.m. I understand there were different witness accounts and the info. had to be put together.

Here's what I got from talking to people soon after:

* woman robbed by man who got out of and into a car

* perpetrator hit her in the head with a gun and she was taken to the hospital bleeding

* suspect was African American, clean shaven, maybe early 30s, dark clothes

* there were several witnesses who got at least a partial license plate"

Editor's Note: Another neighbor noted a similarity between the mugging on Woolsey near Telegraph reported in a prior E-News and this one in the Temescal area:

"I'm writing to let you know about a mugging that occurred in the Temescal last week. It didn't occur to me to report this to the HNA until now, but the description of the car in the robbery on Woolsey Street near Dana makes me wonder if these are related incidents, so for what it's worth: On Monday 7/27/09 a friend of mine had her purse stolen out of her bicycle basket (rear, left side) while she was riding south on Telegraph Avenue (between 44th and 42nd). She was *in motion* at the time, not stopped, and the car pulled up close to her so that the passenger in the front seat could lean out his window and grab the bag out of her basket! Then the car sped off down 42nd street with her purse in hand. They managed to spend several hundred dollars on her credit cards at Jack in the Box and a Gas Station before the cards were reported stolen (10 minutes later). She described the car as large, old, and black. The police told her that similar incidents have occurred recently on Telegraph Avenue so we have been trying to spread the word, especially to other cyclists."

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

9. Link to Halcyon Neighbor's Commentary on the Downtown Referendum (plus links to other opinions)

Editor's Note: Halcyon neighbor Nancy Carleton (yours truly) had a commentary published in today's Daily Planet regarding the Referendum on the City Council's adopted Downtown Plan. As editor, I have traditionally linked to articles by neighbors published in a variety of places, whether or not I personally agree with them, so I've done so here, for an article that happens to be by me. But since this is an issue where there are definitely a range of opinions in the neighborhood (HNA's two co-chairs are even on opposite sides on this one!), I've also added some links so everyone who likes can peruse pros and cons regarding the Referendum petition-gathering effort currently underway and make up your own minds (a Google search will take you even further). As I've often reminded everyone as editor, in accordance with HNA's Guiding Principles (published in the placeholder section in the second half of every E-News, HNA does not take stands on controversial issues, and has no position on the Referendum. At the same time, our Guiding Principles encourage neighbors to become informed so you can express your opinions to relevant decision makers.

Halcyon neighbor's article:

http://www.berkeleydailyplanet.com/issue/2009-08-13/article/33502?headline=Why-Progressives-Back-the-Downtown-Plan-Referendum

The Letters to the Editor section in this week's Planet contains a range of viewpoints on the referendum:

http://www.berkeleydailyplanet.com/issue/2009-08-13/article/33504?headline=Letters-to-the-Editor

The Livable Berkeley website gives the anti-referendum position:

http://www.livableberkeley.org/node/63

The Alliance for a Green and Livable Downtown website gives the pro-referendum position:

http://greendowntownberkeley.org/

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

10. Whole Foods Update, including report of Mugging on Ashby Side of Parking Lot

Editor's note: The following report was received from Whole Foods Market:

Crime Watch: We had one report of a mugging on Saturday 7/25/09 between 9:20 p.m. & 9:40 p.m., a customer was mugged outside on the Ashby side of the parking lot. They stole a purse with no valuables; no one was hurt.

Bag Refund Donations

Community Alliance with Family Farmers AKA Buy Fresh Buy Local

Monthly Donations

Aug. 2nd- Young Musician's Program
Aug. 14th- Metta Center for Non Violence
Aug. 17th- Camp Kesem
Aug. 24th- UCB New student orientation
August 25th- Stiles Hall
August 30th- CAL cooking club

Next 5% Day

Sept. 22nd - California Coastal Commission- Coastal Cleanup

Events

Please Note: All event sign-ups can be either put on the clipboard at customer service or they can call 510-649-1333 x261 and leave a message.

o Tuesday, August 18th, Wellness for Life- Gluten Free Cooking Class 5:30

o Friday, August 21st, Meet the Experts- The Power of Juicing 4 p.m.

o Friday, August 21st, Hot Summer Nights 9-11 p.m. Shop, Party and Save!

o Thursday, August 27th, Non Profit Round Table 5 p.m.

Nick Heustis

Marketing and Community Relations Team Leader

Whole Foods Market / 3000 Telegraph Ave. Berkeley CA 94705

(510)649-1333 ext 261

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

11. Bay Bridge to be Closed to Traffic over Labor Day Weekend

Editor's Note: The following note was received from State Senator Loni Hancock's office:

The Bay Bridge will be CLOSED to traffic in both directions beginning Thursday, September 3rd at 8:00 p.m. and will reopen on Tuesday, September 8th at 5:00 a.m.

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

* For Your Calendar: HNA Dates Scheduled for 2009

Dates set as of August 2009 (verify a couple weeks before event by checking HNA E-News):

Saturday, August 15, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. SNCPC Garage Sale at Bushrod Park, Shattuck side between 60th and 59th Streets (Neighborhood Rummage Sale to raise money for Crime Prevention Council, which HNA has been networking with)

Tuesday, August 25, 1:30-4:30 p.m., Work Party in Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince) and surrounding neighborhood with help from Cal student volunteers

Sunday, September 13, 4-6 p.m., Neighborhood Celebration with Live Music and Potluck in Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince)

Saturday, October 10, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Big Work Party in Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince) and surrounding neighborhood in coordination with Cal student volunteers from the Berkeley Project

Thursday, October 29, 7 p.m., SNCPC Annual Meeting (elect sector representatives to Crime Prevention Council), North Oakland Sr. Center, 58th St. and MLK Jr. Way (with HNA's participation)

Sunday, December 6, 4-5:30 p.m., HNA Steering Committee meeting to set dates for 2010, John Steere's house, 2329 Webster

Sunday, January 24, 2010, 5:00-8:45 p.m., Post-Holiday Progressive Potluck, four locations TBD

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

* Disaster Prep Supply Cache Wish List

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:

Berkeley: http://www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/police

Link to police bulletins:

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

Other City Departments:

City Manager's Office: 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 Jesse Arreguin <JArreguin@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,

Councilmember Laurie Capitelli <LCapitelli@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,

Councilmember Susan Wengraf <SWengraf@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)

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

* Halcyon Neighborhood Association's Guiding Principles

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).

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

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 at <halcyon92@gmail.com>. Feel free to pass the HNA E-Newsletter on to other neighbors you think might be interested.

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/

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

HNA E-News: Potluck & Safety Walk Tuesday for National Night Out; Play Date for Toddles/Preschoolers Sat. Aug.15; Book Club Sun. Aug. 16; etc.

2009-08-03T16:32:00.000-07:00

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

Halcyon Neighborhood Association E-Newsletter

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

1. National Night Out Against Crime, Potluck & Safety Walk, This Tuesday, August 4, Halcyon Commons, 6-8:30 p.m.

2. Halcyon Commons Play Dates for Toddlers and Preschoolers (Next Date: Saturday, August 15, 4-5:30 p.m.)

3. Next Halcyon Book Club Meeting, Sunday, Aug. 16th, 4-6 p.m.

4. Halcyon Neighbor Planning Yard Sale, Saturday, August 15 (Others Welcome to Join In)

5. Crime Watch Alert: Robbery on Woolsey Street (near Dana)

6. Another Useful Link with Resources for Pandemic Flu Preparedness

* For Your Calendar: HNA Dates Scheduled for 2009

* Disaster Prep Supply Cache Wish List

* City of Berkeley: Useful Contact Information

* Halcyon Neighborhood Association's Guiding Principles

Editor's Introductory Note:

Thanks to everyone who helped out with the July 26th work party in Halcyon Commons, including Whole Foods Market and Mokka cafe for their generous donations. We got a lot done in just a couple of hours, and it was nice to have the tai chi practice in the park right after -- a great synergy of taking care of our community common space in a couple of different ways!

A very gratifying development this year in our neighborhood has been the way that neighbors are coming forward to create new kinds of community-building activities -- from the regular tai chi practice in the park to the recently formed Halcyon Book Club (see item 3), and now a new group planning play dates in the park for toddlers and preschoolers (item 2). We hope these grassroots activities will inspire others to take advantage of what you can create right here where you live. As the HNA E-News editor, I'm happy to list these activities whenever I can (allow a bit of lead time since the E-News publication schedule depends on how much news has built up as well as on my volunteer capacity). The E-News now reaches over four hundred subscribers on its direct list, as well as another 150 on the Le Conte listserv, so when you have a neighborhood activity or event to promote you'll reach a lot of potentially like-minded neighbors.

And don't forget about Tuesday's potluck in the park as part of HNA's participation in the National Night Out Against Crime event (see item 1). Police, firefighters, Councilmember Kriss Worthington, and other city officials will be stopping by. A robust turnout at this annual event lets us show our beat officers and city representatives that our neighborhood is willing to be an active partner in preventing crime, so please come on out!

Happy Summer!

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

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

1. National Night Out Against Crime, Potluck & Safety Walk, This Tuesday, August 4, Halcyon Commons, 6-8:30 p.m.

National Night Out Against Crime event

Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince)

6:00-7:30 p.m. Potluck in the park

7:30-8:30 p.m. Walking Tour of the neighborhood

Please bring a food item (and possibly beverage) to share.

Potluck suggestions: Appetizer: N-R * Main Dish: S-Z * Salad: A-G * Dessert H-M

(if not obvious, kindly attach a label with ingredients to alert those with vegetarian and other diets)

We'll share a potluck meal and strategize to fight crime. Our Beat Officers and the Fire Department will stop by sometime during the evening to answer questions and hear concerns, and afte dinner we'll take a walking tour of the larger neighborhood (including a stop at Nomad Cafe to meet up with any East Lorin neighbors who might join us) to identify trouble spots. Children especially welcome!

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

2. Halcyon Commons Play Dates for Toddlers and Preschoolers (Next Date: Saturday, August 15, 4-5:30 p.m.)

Neighbor Families:

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

3. Next Halcyon Book Club Meeting, Sunday, Aug. 16th, 4-6 p.m.

Editor's Note: The first meeting of the Halcyon Book Club went well by all accounts, and they would welcome new members.

Halcyon Book Club

Sunday, August 16, 4-6 p.m.

The book is Wicked, by Gregory Maguire

Please r.s.v.p. to Laura West at <lauragortonwest@yahoo.com> or 847-9320.

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

4. Halcyon Neighbor Planning Yard Sale, Saturday, August 15 (Others Welcome to Join In)

Editor's note: While we didn't receive enough of a response for HNA to sponsor a summer multiblock yard sale, several Halcyon/Webster neighbors are pooling resources to promote a smaller multifamily yard sale on Saturday, August 15.

Dear Neighbors,

I am planning another yard sale for Saturday, August 15th, if anyone else is interested in joining us. Even though it is a scaled-down version of our normal multiblock neighborhood sale, there are a few houses willing to jump in. We could even group on one street together near Halcyon park ( not in the park though). So, this is the last call to sign up, and then we will have to place ads, make posters and signs, and distribute them, etc. So, please contact me by phone at 510-517-0241 to let me know if you are interested.

Thanks, and happy summer,

Susan Hunter

Halcyon Court

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

5. Crime Watch Alert: Robbery on Woolsey Street (near Dana)

Editor's Note: The following crime alert was forwarded by a Bateman neighbor. Although it happened just outside the boundaries of the Halcyon neighborhood, it's far too close for comfort, and in an area many of us walk through regularly!

"I live on Woolsey, between Dana and Telegraph, and just got this email from our landlord about a neighbor who was robbed on our street. Thought your list would like to hear about it: Last night at 9 p.m. on Woolsey a few houses down from Dana, [a Woolsey neighbor] was attacked by a guy who jumped out of a car (being driven by another person) and grabbed her purse and other belongings after a struggle. Even though she was screaming, no one came to her defense even though many people saw the whole thing. She did get the car type (a large dark brown or maroon older Buick sedan) and a partial license plate number. She said the police said this has happened several times in that neighborhood recently. . . . Please be aware of your surroundings and be as careful as you can be."

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

6. Another Useful Link with Resources for Pandemic Flu Preparedness

Editor's note: Another good resource in terms of getting ready for the predicted pandemic flu outbreak (parents with school-aged children are particularly advised to be prepared, since there will likely be periods of school closure).

http://www.newfluwiki2.com/diary/3373/updated-home-care-guidance

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

* For Your Calendar: HNA Dates Scheduled for 2009

Dates set as of August 2009 (verify a couple weeks before event by checking HNA E-News):

Tuesday, August 4, 6-8:30 p.m., National Night Out Against Crime (Potluck 6-7:30; Safety Walk, 7:30-8:30), Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince) and surrounding neighborhood

Tuesday, August 25, 1:30-4:30 p.m., Work Party in Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince) and surrounding neighborhood with help from Cal student volunteers

Sunday, September 13, 4-6 p.m., Neighborhood Celebration with Live Music and Potluck in Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince)

Saturday, October 10, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Big Work Party in Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince) and surrounding neighborhood in coordination with Cal student volunteers from the Berkeley Project

Thursday, October 29, 7 p.m., SNCPC Annual Meeting (elect sector representatives to Crime Prevention Council), North Oakland Sr. Center, 58th St. and MLK Jr. Way (with HNA's participation)

Sunday, December 6, 4-5:30 p.m., HNA Steering Committee meeting to set dates for 2010, John Steere's house, 2329 Webster

Sunday, January 24, 2010, 5:00-8:45 p.m., Post-Holiday Progressive Potluck, four locations TBD

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

* Disaster Prep Supply Cache Wish List

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:

Berkeley: http://www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/police

Link to police bulletins:

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

Other City Departments:

City Manager's Office: 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 Jesse Arreguin <JArreguin@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,

Councilmember Laurie Capitelli <LCapitelli@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,

Councilmember Susan Wengraf <SWengraf@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)

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

* Halcyon Neighborhood Association's Guiding Principles

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).

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

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/

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

--

HNA E-News: Work Party This Sunday, 9-11; National Night Out, Tuesday, Aug. 4; and other neighborhood news

2009-07-24T13:35:00.000-07:00

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

Halcyon Neighborhood Association E-Newsletter

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

1. Work Party in the Park and Surrounding Neighborhood, Sunday, July 26, 9-11 a.m.

2. Free Monthly Tai Chi Chih Practice at Halcyon Commons Sunday, July 26, at 11 a.m.

3. National Night Out Against Crime, Potluck & Safety Walk, Tuesday, August 4, Halcyon Commons, 6-8:30 p.m.

4. Crime Watch Report: Car Stolen at Prince & Tremont

5. Crime Watch Alert: Sexual Assaults in Berkeley

6. Celebration of Renewal of Ashby Flowers' Lease, Barbecue, Friday, July 31, 3-6 p.m., Ashby/Telegraph

7. Another Perspective on Pandemic Flu

* For Your Calendar: HNA Dates Scheduled for 2009

* Disaster Prep Supply Cache Wish List

* City of Berkeley: Useful Contact Information

* Halcyon Neighborhood Association's Guiding Principles

Editor's Introductory Note:

When Halcyon neighbors got together to propose the creation of a park in what was once a parking lot, we were approaching a Parks & Recreation Commission composed of members fully aware that the City's resources were already stretched in terms of taking care of Berkeley's existing parks. So from the beginning we indicated our willingness to help maintain Berkeley's newest park, Halcyon Commons, and we have honored that commitment in the years since the park was dedicated. And though it might have been easier to have left all the maintenance to the City, through working in partnership with the City we have continued to build community while we share ownership of this small but precious greenspace we helped create. So please help us continue to honor the commitment to share in the maintenance of Halcyon Commons by joining us this Sunday morning for one of our regular work parties (see item 1), even if all you can spare is half an hour. You'll leave with a deeper appreciation for this park's role in bringing our neighborhood together and giving it a name.

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

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

1. Work Party in the Park and Surrounding Neighborhood, Sunday, July 26, 9-11 a.m.

Meet at Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince)

Delicious refreshments courtesy of Whole Foods Market.

Fresh coffee courtesy of Mokka (cafe at Telegraph & Dowling)

Presuming we have enough volunteers, this work party will include:

* Weeding in Halcyon Commons and some of the nearby landscaped islands.

* Picking up litter from streets in the larger neighborhood.

* Removing graffiti from as wide an area of our neighborhood as we can reach with available volunteers.

Many hands make light work: Please lend yours! Even half an hour helps. We have wonderful refreshments to fuel us, so come on out! Children welcome. Bring your own tools if you have them, or use ours if you don't. THANK YOU for helping give our park and our neighborhood some TLC! And if you've noticed graffiti in the public right-of-way in the larger neighborhood, let us know and we'll do our best to clean it up.

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

2. Free Monthly Tai Chi Chih Practice at Halcyon Commons Sunday, July 26, at 11 a.m.

A neighbor submitted the following announcement:

"At the World Tai Chi/Qi Gong Day event in April, we made plans to gather monthly as a group for a Halcyon Commons Practice of Tai Chi Chih on the fourth Sunday each month at 11 a.m., including Sunday, July 26. At that point, we'll see what develops, with the possibility of more regular practice if the interest is there. This practice is free of charge and open to all who have some familiarity with the 20 Tai Chi Chih forms (19 movements and 1 stance). The intention we hold as we practice is sending chi and goodwill to the park, the neighborhood, our city, our country, and the world. Even if you don't yet know the forms or are in the process of learning them, you may enjoy stopping by and watching or joining in for the easier movements. Others are also welcome to come out to the park and engage in yoga, Qi Gong, Tai Chi Chuan, or whatever your favorite modality might be -- or simply sit in the park and enjoy the passing sights and sounds of summer. Facilitated by Prince Street neighbor Judith Schwartz, 510-843-2062; www.JudithSchwartz.com " [Editor's Note: Judith also offers ongoing classes to teach the Tai Chi forms in her Prince Street gardens; you can contact her for more information.]

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

3. National Night Out Against Crime, Potluck & Safety Walk, Tuesday, August 4, Halcyon Commons, 6-8:30 p.m.

National Night Out Against Crime event

Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince)

6:00-7:30 p.m. Potluck in the park

7:30-8:30 p.m. Walking Tour of the neighborhood

Please bring a food item (and possibly beverage) to share.

Potluck suggestions: Appetizer: N-R * Main Dish: S-Z * Salad: A-G * Dessert H-M

(if not obvious, kindly attach a label with ingredients to alert those with vegetarian and other diets)

We'll share a potluck meal and strategize to fight crime. Our Beat Officers and the Fire Department will stop by sometime during the eveing to answer questions and hear concerns, and afte dinner we'll take a walking tour of the larger neighborhood to identify trouble spots. Children especially welcome!

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

4. Crime Watch Report: Car Stolen at Prince & Tremont

A Prince Street neighbor submitted the following report:

"On Friday July 17 sometime before 10:30 p.m. my Jeep Cherokee was stolen from Prince Street at the corner of Tremont. I had been out of town for about five days at the time. It was parked in front of my neighbor's house, and he noticed it missing around 10:30, but not earlier in the day, so we suspect it was taken that evening. I contacted Berkeley police when I returned on Saturday night the 18th, and they told me that the car was impounded in Oakland on a hit and run. I later learned that the car was wreaked, presumably by the people who took it, sometime Friday night or early Saturday morning."

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

5. Crime Watch Alert: Sexual Assaults in Berkeley

Editor's Note: The following crime alert was later followed by the release of two sketches of the suspect involved in the sexual assaults. If you would like the sketches forwarded to you, please reply to <halcyon92@gmail.com> with that request.

Fellow Community Members,

The Berkeley Police Department has just released a Crime Alert concerning two sexual assaults that took place early this morning; one of the incidents occurred in North Central Berkeley on the 2100 block of Cedar St. Below is the text from the alert. Please take note that in both cases, the suspect entered through an unlocked door or window.

Community Crime Alert

Detectives Investigate Two Early Morning

Sexual Assaults

Berkeley, California (Thursday, July 16, 2009) - This morning at approximately

2:32 a.m., Berkeley Police Department (BPD) Patrol Officers responded to a report of a sexual assault which occurred on the 2100 block of Cedar Street in North Berkeley.

The high-school aged victim who was asleep in her bed woke to find the suspect straddling her and lifting her shirt. The victim?s mother (who was also asleep in the same bed) awoke and fought the suspect off until he fled the residence.

The suspect was described as:
Unknown race male, 16-20 years old
5?07-6?0 tall

Wearing a gray, hooded sweatshirt

At approximately 7:24 a.m., Patrol Officers responded to the 2600 block of Hillegas Avenue for a report of a sexual assault. The college-aged victim woke to find the suspect on top of her. She resisted and the suspect fled the apartment.

The victim described the suspect as:
Black male, 19-22 years old
5?-5-5?-6 tall

Wearing a gray non-hooded sweatshirt and blue jeans

In both cases the suspect(s) entered the ground floor residences through unlocked doors and windows.

The community is encouraged to employ the following Crime Prevention measures as summer temperatures climb:

* Always lock and secure doors and windows.

* Immediately call BPD to report suspicious persons or activity.

BPD needs the community's help in catching this suspect. Anyone with information with regard to this case is encouraged to call the BPD Sex Crimes Detail at (510 ) 981-5734. If the event has just occurred or is in progress, please immediately report it to the BPD Dispatch at 9-1-1 or from your cell phone at (510) 981-5911.

If you wish to remain anonymous, please call the Bay Area Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. All Bay Area Crime Stoppers calls are completely confidential.

###

The actual Crime Alert will be available shortly at the following web address:

http://www.cityofberkeley.info/ContentDisplay.aspx?id=11120

I will pass along any additional information that becomes available regarding these cases. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions, comments, or concerns.

Respectfully,

Officer Casimiro Pierantoni #96
   Area Coordinator-Area 1
   Community Services Bureau
   Berkeley Police Department
   Phn: (510) 981-5773

Fax: (510) 981-5819

<mailto:cpierantoni@cityofberkeley.info>

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

6. Celebration of Renewal of Ashby Flowers' Lease, Barbecue, Friday, July 31, 3-6 p.m., Ashby/Telegraph

Editor's Note: Ashby Flowers and Whole Foods Market are jointly hosting a barbecue on Friday, July 31st to celebrate the renewal of the lease for Ashby Flowers. The following invitation to neighbors was forwarded by Ashby Flowers with their appreciation to the neighborhood for its support:

Thanks to You, Ashby Flowers is Here To Stay!

In appreciation of your continued support, Ashby Flowers and Whole Foods Market, Berkeley, invite you to a BBQ on Friday, July 31st, from 3 to 6 p.m. Join in celebrating Ashby Flowers' new lease and continued presence at the corner of Ashby and Telegraph avenues.

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

7. Another Perspective on Pandemic Flu

Editor's Note: An Essex Street neighbor forwarded the following recommendation.

"The Homeopathic Treatment of Influenza by Sandra J. Perko is an eye-opener and a valuable resource."

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

* For Your Calendar: HNA Dates Scheduled for 2009

Dates set as of July 2009 (verify a couple weeks before event by checking HNA E-News):

Sunday, July 26, 2009, 9-11 a.m., Work Party in Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince) and Surrounding Neighborhood

Tuesday, August 4, 6-8:30 p.m., National Night Out Against Crime (Potluck 6-7:30; Safety Walk, 7:30-8:30), Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince) and surrounding neighborhood

Sunday, September 13, 4-6 p.m., Neighborhood Celebration with Live Music and Potluck in Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince)

Saturday, October 10, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Big Work Party in Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince) and surrounding neighborhood in coordination with Cal student volunteers from the Berkeley Project

Thursday, October 29, 7 p.m., SNCPC Annual Meeting (elect sector representatives to Crime Prevention Council), North Oakland Sr. Center, 58th St. and MLK Jr. Way (with HNA's participation)

Sunday, December 6, 4-5:30 p.m., HNA Steering Committee meeting to set dates for 2010, John Steere's house, 2329 Webster

Sunday, January 24, 2010, 5:00-8:45 p.m., Post-Holiday Progressive Potluck, four locations TBD

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

* Disaster Prep Supply Cache Wish List

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:

Berkeley: http://www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/police

Link to police bulletins:

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

Other City Departments:

City Manager's Office: 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 Jesse Arreguin <JArreguin@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,

Councilmember Laurie Capitelli <LCapitelli@ci.berkeley.ca.us>,

Councilmember Susan Wengraf <SWengraf@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)

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

* Halcyon Neighborhood Association's Guiding Principles

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).

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

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/

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

HNA E-News: Prince Street Block Party This Saturday; New Book Club Sunday; Crime Watch; and other neighborhood news

2009-07-15T22:00:00.000-07:00

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

Halcyon Neighborhood Association E-Newsletter

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

1. Block Party 2000 Block of Prince Street, This Saturday, July 18, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

2. New Halcyon Book Club Forming: First Meeting, Sunday, July 19, 4-5:30 p.m.

3. Work Party in the Park and Surrounding Neighborhood, Sunday, July 26, 9-11 a.m.

4. Free Monthly Tai Chi Chih Practice at Halcyon Commons Sunday, July 26, at 11 a.m.

5. Report from HNA's Neighborhood Watch Coordinator: Gang Violence, the North Oakland Neighborhood Crime Prevention Council, and Links to Articles

6. Crime Watch Report: Major Burglary on Deakin Street

7. Update from Whole Foods Market

8. Emergency Preparedness: Link re Pandemic Flu Home Care

9. Prince Street Neighbor Nina Lyons in "A Sculptor's Perspective," Sat. July 18, 10-11 a.m.

* For Your Calendar: HNA Dates Scheduled for 2009

* Disaster Prep Supply Cache Wish List

* City of Berkeley: Useful Contact Information

* Halcyon Neighborhood Association's Guiding Principles

Editor's Introductory Note:

While there haven't been as many reports of crimes in our neighborhood as in some summers past, there was a serious burglary on Deakin Street in June (see item 6) that indicates some casing of the neighborhood was taking place, and there are also some disturbing reports of an increase in gang activity on the periphery of our neighborhood (item 5). So stay alert, and please be proactive about calling the police if you notice anything suspicious. And don't forget my constant refrain that building community is one of the best ways at our disposal to make our neighborhood safer (in the case of the Deakin Street burglary, prompt action by neighbors at least kept the loss from being worse). So consider attending this Saturday's Prince Street Block Party (item 1), joining the newly forming Halcyon Book Club Sunday (see item 2), and pitching in at the July 26 work party (item 3), both to have fun and to get to know your neighbors better.

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

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

1. Block Party 2000 Block of Prince Street, This Saturday, July 18, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Prince Street neighbor Tony Hill submitted the following announcement:

2000-2100 Prince Street Block Party:

There'll be a block party on 2000 block of Prince this Saturday, July 18, between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. No cars on street. Food, Bounce House, Fire Engine, games, Salsa lessons, etc. Everyone welcome. Information: Tony Hill 548-2306.

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

2. New Halcyon Book Club Forming: First Meeting, This Sunday, July 19, 4-5:30 p.m.

Neighbor Laura West submitted the following announcement:

LET'S START A BOOK CLUB!

Michele (of Michele and John) and I got very excited about this idea at the last potluck. She and I will take monthly turns hosting a new Halcyon Book Club on Sunday afternoons at 4:00 p.m. We are unabashedly planning the reading list to be books that are appealing to us -- fun and interesting (as opposed to the relentlessly heavy); suggestions welcome!

Our first book will be Ruth Riechl's Comfort Me with Apples

Ruth is a food celebrity, and this book is part of her autobiographical series. It takes place in the 1970s, when Ruth was living in a commune in Berkeley. She ends up as a part of the food revolution (with Alice Waters and Wolfgang Puck, among others). Since it's autobiographical, you also get a dose of her family life and love affairs.

WHEN: Sunday, July 19, 4:00-5:30 (book club)

5:30-6:00 help decide on future books, (bring some suggestions if you like)

WHAT: Read all (or as much as you like), and bring your copy if you want to share a favorite passage.

FOOD: Coffee, tea and light refreshments will be served; contributions of more drinks or finger foods are welcome,but optional

WHERE: Laura's house, 2218 Russell St. (corner house, where Deakin ends, a block north of Ashby)

RSVP: Please, please, so we know how many chairs and food/drink to set up (see phone and email below)

HELP NEEDED: Setting or cleanig up

See ya!

Laura West <lauragortonwest@yahoo.com>

847-9320

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

3. Work Party in the Park and Surrounding Neighborhood, Sunday, July 26, 9-11 a.m.

Meet at Halcyon Commons (Halcyon at Prince)

Delicious refreshments courtesy of Whole Foods Market.

Fresh coffee courtesy of Mokka (cafe at Telegraph & Dowling)

Presuming we have enough volunteers, this work party will include:

* Weeding in Halcyon Commons and some of the nearby landscaped islands.

* Picking up litter from streets in the larger neighborhood.

* Removing graffiti from as wide an area of our neighborhood as we can reach with available volunteers.

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

4. Free Monthly Tai Chi Chih Practice at Halcyon Commons Sunday, July 26, at 11 a.m.

A neighbor submitted the following announcement:

"We're practicing Tai Chi Chih on the fourth Sunday each month at 11 a.m., including Sunday, July 26. This practice is free of charge and open to all who have some familiarity with the 20 Tai Chi Chih forms (19 movements and 1 stance). The intention we hold as we practice is sending chi and goodwill to the park, the neighborhood, our city, our country, and the world. Even if you don't yet know the forms or are in the process of learning them, you may enjoy stopping by and watching or joining in for the easier movements. Others are also welcome to come out to the park and engage in yoga, Qi Gong, Tai Chi Chuan, or whatever your favorite modality might be -- or simply sit in the park and enjoy the passing sights and sounds of summer. Facilitated by Prince Street neighbor Judith Schwartz, 510-843-2062; www.JudithSchwartz.com " [Editor's Note: Judith also offers ongoing classes to teach the Tai Chi forms in her Prince Street gardens; you can contact her for more information.]

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

5. Report from HNA's Neighborhood Watch Coordinator: Gang Violence, the North Oakland Neighborhood Crime Prevention Council, and Links to Articles

Dawn Trygstad Rubin, HNA's Neighborhood Watch Coordinator, submitted the following report

Hello Folks,

FYI - I am forwarding a report on the meeting I attended back in June about gang violence between rival gangs in South Berkeley, West Berkeley, and North Oakland from Don Link (chair of the NONCPC, North Oakland Neighborhood Crime Prevention Council, whose meetings I have been attending all year). It talks about a few specific shootings and incidents related to a "gang war" in process, what to look for, and how to report it.

If you think you see something that may be related to this escalation of violence, a call should be made to Berkeley Police Department immediately saying you may have seen gang activity. Use your judgment about whether to call Emergency (911 from a land line, or 981-5911 from cell phones) or non-emergency (981-5900). The police specifically mentioned the following suspicious activities:

* hear shots

* see likely drug deals (people walk up, exchange items, leave in a short time)

* see groups of >5 youth hanging out having arguments, maybe with person/people running away

* see cars speeding away

* see cars sitting running with no driver (especially if there are passengers)

If you ever want to attend a meeting of the NONCPC with me to see a well-working coordination of effort between citizens and police, let me know. They go from 7-9 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month. Also, in case you hadn't seen the news reports, below are links to some good news about arrests that have been happening as a result of excellent team work between Berkeley Police Department (BPD) and Oakland Police Department:

http://www.insidebayarea.com/ci_12806134?source=most_viewed

http://www.berkeleydailyplanet.com/issue/2009-07-09/article/33321?headline=Three-Arrests-in-South-Berkeley-North-Oakland-Gang-War

http://www.berkeleydailyplanet.com/issue/2009-05-28/article/32976?headline=Police-Arrest-Third-Suspect-in-Homicide-Cases

http://www.berkeleydailyplanet.com/issue/2009-05-21/article/32957?headline=Berkeley-Police-Identify-Homicide-Suspects

And some good news that crime in Berkeley is down overall (corresponding decrease in North Oakland) - and the article says that theft, burglaries, and robberies are often tied to gang activity.

http://www.berkeleydailyplanet.com/issue/2009-06-11/article/33134?headline=Crime-in-Berkeley-Down-Slightly-in-the-First-Quarter

Hope you're all enjoying summer!

Dawn

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

6. Crime Watch Report: Major Burglary on Deakin Street

A Deakin Street neighbor submitted the following report:

"Our house on Deakin St. south of Webster St. was burglarized on Wednesday June 17th sometime between 1:00 and 2:00 in the afternoon. Thankfully no one was home other than our large and loud dog, and no one was hurt. There are generally kids and adults going in and out of the house all day -- this was a very bold robbery done in broad daylight. Two African American men in their twenties were spotted by a neighbor, who called the police just after they emerged from the driveway carrying a stereo speaker. The police arrived within approximately five minutes. The burglars broke a window in the back of the house and entered that way, unlocking the back door from the inside. They must have made multiple trips in and out of the house and been there for a while, as they made off with all electronic equipment in the house (computers, t.v., modems, cables etc), jewelry and kitchen equipment. They emptied all of the dresser drawers in the house and rummaged through two closets. They had started to pile other things, which they intended to take before they were scared off by the neighbor. Another neighbor saw a suspicious looking green van parked next to the traffic barriers at Prince and Deakin, but didn't get a license number."

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

7. Update from Whole Foods Market

Editor's Note: The following report (excerpted) was received from Whole Foods Market.

Hi Neighbors,

Here is my overview for July. There have been no reports of crime this last month. Hope to see you all soon- outside in this amazing weather!

Whole Foods Market Berkeley

July Overview

Donations

Bag Refund Donations
Community Alliance with Family Farmers/ Buy Fresh Buy Local
Monthly Donations
July 1st- Niroga Institute
July 7th- Roots of Change Conference
July 25th- Hip Wah Summer Camp
July 25th- St. John's Childcare
July 26th- Halcyon Commons
July- 27th- Cal Cooking Club
Next 5% Day
California Coastal Cleanup date TBD (Sept.)

Featured events- See our calendar for our full listing!

Monday, July 13th- 2pm- Healthy Eating on a Budget Friday July 17th- 4pm- Meet the Experts- Staying Healthy with the Seasons- nutritionist Tanya Henderson

Ashby Flowers Lease Renewal Celebration

To celebrate the signing of Ashby Flower's new lease, we will be collectively throwing a party on Friday July 31st. Details to come.

Nick Heustis

Marketing and Community Relations Team Leader

Whole Foods Market / 3000 Telegraph Ave. Berkeley CA 94705

(510 )649-1333 ext 261

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

8. Emergency Preparedness: Link re Pandemic Flu Home Care

Editor's Note: As some of you may be aware, estimates are that the "swine flu" will return in pandemic force this fall. It's worth giving some thought toward being prepared to deal with the consequences, including the possibility of school closures. The following link contains useful information to prepare for home care.

http://www.pandemichomecare.com/

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

9. Prince Street Neighbor Nina Lyons in "A Sculptor's Perspective," Sat. July 18, 10-11 a.m.

Prince Street Neighbor Nina Lyons submitted the following invitation:

You are invited to

"A Sculptors Perspective, A Tour of the Bancroft Sculpture Exhibition"

on Saturday, July 18 at 10:00 am.

"See the show before it ends on July 25!"

What: Lecture

Host: Laura van Duren, with artist Nina Lyons

Start Time: Saturday, July 18 at 10:00 a.m.

End Time: Saturday, July 18 at 11:00 a.m.

Where: The Ruth Bancroft Garden www.ruthbancroftgarden.org