I noticed yesterday for the first time ever that at the base of the two lampposts that mark the corners of the fence in front of the old mint building on 5th St. at Mission St. there are swastika designs in the original metalwork. It seems likely to me that these were put in place before the swastika took on the meaning that we associate with it today, but I think it's really inappropriate to leave them there. There were (presumably) swastikas on all four sides of the base of each of the two street lamps. It appears as though Read This Posty »

I was unable to open the message sent to me soliciting smart solutions. I'm not sure what solutions you were referring to, Mr. Mayor, but here's something that's been bothering me for a while. With all our present concern with energy conservation, how can countless businesses in the downtown area leave thousands of lights blazing in empty offices night after night? What an incredible waste! Why hasn't this profligate use of electricity been addressed? We've all been chastened to take short showers and turn off the water when we brush our teeth - why not chasten business energy wasters to Read This Posty »

Ask Cal-Trans or the consortium that manages the Transbay terminal to aim the light fixtures below the transbay terminal overpasses (i.e. on 1st street) up toward the ceiling, rather than straight down.  This will brighten the area, even with the pigeon netting, and call attention to the nice iron work.  Better light fixtures would be a plus, but making the whole area brighter would be a good start! Ruth Knapp Read This Posty »