August 2014
 
Note: For additional stories about the west side of San Francisco, see the new issue of the Sunset Beacon.

Geary theater is sold; new owners reviewing options
After a 10-year intermission, it seems the curtain is rising on the fourth act of the Alexandria Theater. However, predicting its fate is like predicting the plot of a John Waters' film: It is anyone's guess what will happen.

District giving up parking spaces for car sharing
At least 18 public parking spaces in the Richmond District will be turned over to private car-sharing companies for a pilot program, amid concerns that the City is not providing enough parking.

Captain launches 'Street Smarts' program to improve road safety
Richmond District Police Capt. Simon Silverman recently announced the launch of SF Street Smarts, a public safety education program designed to improve driver, pedestrian and bicycle safety through education and community outreach. The program was created in San Jose in 2004 and launched in the Richmond District on June 27.

West side known as city's playground
The Richmond and Sunset neighborhoods are often seen as sleepy, quiet communities for families, immigrants, surfers and college students. People from outside the area rarely visit for entertainment unless they are attending a concert in Golden Gate Park or spending the day at the beach on a rare warm day. However, this part of the City has changed dramatically since San Francisco's early days. At one point, it was a hotbed for amusement and leisure.

Sunday Streets a big hit on Arguello
The typical summer fog of July did not diminish the spirits of the second annual Sunday Streets event held in the Inner Richmond District on July 13. Nor did the World Cup Soccer finals keep people away.

West-side road to be renamed for former Congressman John Burton
San Francisco is a city of names - Geary Boulevard, Balboa Street, Cesar Chavez Street, Polk Street - but later this month, San Francisco will add to its long list of streets that are named for well-known historical figures the John Burton Boulevard.

Filmmakers' son inspiration for 'Havana Curveball'
Who could fault parents wanting to document their son's bar mitzvah, a significant rite of passage in the Jewish faith and culture. The event, marking and celebrating a 13-year-old's transition from boyhood to manhood, typically consists of a formal ceremony in a synagogue, followed by an often over-the-top party.

Photo winners featured at Academy of Sciences
Nature photography fans are in for a special treat when the California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park puts up for display some 45 new pictures that capture the wild kingdom in all of its frolicking glory.

COLUMNISTS

Supervisor Eric Mar: City Hall Update

Linda Murley and Sarah Huck: Fighting for Food Security

Assemblymember Phil Ting: Looking for 'Green Thumbs'

Charles Higgins: Seeking the Town Square