Milestone for Blue & Gold - Forty Years on Bay Waterways - Bay ...
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
“The Voice of the Waterfront” May 2019 Vol.20, No.5
Milestone for Blue & Gold New Proposal Threatens Bay
Forty Years on Bay Waterways Clean Water Rules in Jeopardy
Good News on RM3 Funds Ferry Questions Answered
Ruling May Allow Transit Cash Overnight Parking Rules Explained
COMPLETE FERRY SCHEDULES FOR ALL SF LINES
25 Y E A R S A N D
N G
RIDING S T R O
BAY AREA BIKE TO WORK DAY 25TH
ANNIVERSARY - MAY 9, 2019
A Quarter-Century in the Making!
Celebrate 25 years of biking to work by joining
thousands of your neighbors on May 9th for the
25th Anniversary of Bay Area Bike to Work Day!
Brush up on your biking know-how and find an
energizer station with snacks and giveaways
nearby at bayareabiketowork.com. Let’s roll!
Great food to celebrate life in the City!
Enjoy a ten minute walk from the Ferry Building or a short hop on the F-Line
Crab House at Pier 39
Voted “Best Crab in San Francisco”
Sizzling Skillet-roasted Mussels, Shrimp & Crab
Romantic Cozy Fireplace
Stunning Golden Gate Bridge View
Open Daily 11:30 am - 10 pm
2nd Floor, West Side of Pier 39
Validated Parking
crabhouse39.com 415.434.2722
Franciscan Crab Restaurant
Open Daily 11:30 am - 11 pm Pier 43 1/2 Validated Parking
Whole Roasted Dungeness Crab
Breathtaking Views 415.362.7733
Bay Side of Historic Fisherman’s Wharf franciscancrabrestaurant.com
THE ORIGINAL
SAN FRANCISCO BAY CRUISE
PIER 43 1/2 FISHERMAN’S WHARF
REDANDWHITE.COM (415) 673-2900
NIGHT TOUR
Book Your Tour Today!
WWW.BIGBUS.COM
www.baycrossings.com May 2019 3
columns features
07 WHO’S AT THE HELM?
Alvin Haymon
12 COVER STORY
Blue & Gold Fleet
22
by Matt Larson Celebrates Forty Years of
Moving People on the Bay
by Joel Williams guides
17 BAYKEEPER
New Federal Proposal
Threatens the Bay 14 GREEN PAGES 20 BAY AREA FERRY SCHEDULES
Be on time for last call
Agencies Propose Solutions
by Sejal Choksi-Chugh for San Luis Reservoir
by Bill Picture 22 AROUND THE BAY
To see, be, do, know
19 CULTURAL CURRENTS
Late Spring Diversions news ON OUR COVER
Abound in the Bay Area
by Paul Duclos 06 WATERFRONT NEWS
Good News Surfaces at the
Port of Oakland
by Patrick Burnson
May 2019 Volume 20, Number 5
Bobby Winston, Proprietor 08 FERRY NEWS
Joel Williams, Publisher
Patrick Runkle, Editor
Positive Ruling for RM3
Funds; Treasure Island Ferry
ADVERTISING & MARKETING
Joel Williams, Advertising & Marketing Director
Situation Still Murky
GRAPHICS & PRODUCTION by Dan Rosenheim
Francisco Arreola, Designer / Web Producer
ART DIRECTION
Francisco Arreola; Patrick Runkle;
Joel Williams
11 FERRY Q&A
What Are the Overnight
COLUMNISTS
Paul Duclos; Patrick Burnson;
Sejal Choksi-Chugh; Matt Larson;
Parking Policies?
This month, Blue & Gold Fleet is celebrating 40 remarkable years
11
WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS
Bill Picture; Joel Williams; FERRY SHORT TAKES of ferry and water excursion services on San Francisco Bay. The
Dan Rosenheim
Modest Fare Increase; company was founded by Roger Murphy and developer Warren
ACCOUNTING
Cindy Henderson Berkeley Ferry Discussion Simmons at the same time as PIER 39 launched operations in
1979. The company started by providing pleasure cruises from
Advertising Inquiries:
PIER 39’s West Marina with a passenger vessel. Today, in addition
16
(707) 556-3323, joel@baycrossings.com
Ospreys Make New to providing numerous excursion services, Blue & Gold operates
Bay Crossings SF Ferry Building Store
(415) 362-0717
Clipper customer service center
Attraction for Richmond SF Bay Ferry’s fleet of 14 commuter ferryboats.
(877) 878-8883
Ferry Commuters Photo by Joel Williams
For Transit Information – Dial 511
Bay Crossings
18 Sip, Stroll and Celebrate at Corrections & Letters
Ferry Building, #22
San Francisco, CA 94111
www.baycrossings.com
A Division of Nematode Media, LLC Jack London Square in May We appreciate the opportunity to publish our readers’ comments, letters or
requests for corrections, which can be sent to joel@baycrossings.com.
4 May 2019 www.baycrossings.com
T H E E M B A R C A D E R O @ B E AC H S T R E E T | 415 .9 81. P I E R | P I E R 3 9.CO M
BAY CRUISES • FERRY SERVICE
WHERE THE CITY MEETS
THE BAY to Play
BAY CRUISE ADVENTURE
60-minute cruise under the Golden Gate Bridge
and around Alcatraz Island
ESCAPE FROM THE ROCK
90-minute cruise around the bay and Alcatraz
that reveals the untold stories of life on The Rock
MAY 17
SPRING WINE POUR
Tickets & details at pier39.com
FREE AUDIO TOUR AVAILABLE IN NINE LANGUAGES NOW – JUNE 30
KIDS EAT & PLAY FREE
BRING YOUR SMARTPHONE, TABLET OR OTHER WI-FI ENABLED DEVICE
ENGLISH | DEUTSCH | ESPAÑOL | FRANÇAIS | ITALIANO | 日本 | | 中国大陆 |
Details at pier39.com/localadvantage
GET YOUR TICKETS AT THE PIER 39 BOX OFFICE
AND BLUEANDGOLDFLEET.COM Events are weather permitting and subject to change without notice.
www.baycrossings.com May 2019 5
WORKING WATERFRONT NEWS
Two Good News Stories
Surface in Oakland
BY PATRICK BURNSON is again being threatened by misguided
politicians who feel that U.S.-flag
A
shipping is a vestige of the past that
s this column has recently should be scrapped.
documented, the ocean Countering that sentiment is Steinar
carrier industry remains in Nerbovik, Philly Shipyard president and Photo courtesy of Matson
the throes of a seemingly CEO, who said that the construction of Oakland-based Matson recently christened the Kaimana Hila, the second of two Aloha class
unending cycle of rate the Kaimana Hila, and its earlier sister containerships. These ships represent the largest vessels to have been built in the United States.
erosion, vacant sailings and dysfunctional ship, has provided good skilled work for
relationships with shippers and other nearly 1,500 people at Philly Shipyard
stakeholders. over the last three years. debt while trying to adhere to stringent to 587,356 during the same period in
But there have been exceptions “We are immensely proud to new energy standards soon to be 2018. That represents a 4.2 percent
to this sorry state of affairs, with one provide another quality and safe vessel imposed by the International Maritime increase.
outstanding example here in the Bay that Matson can be proud of for years to Organization. Port spokespeople said that there
Area. Rising above the chaos is Oakland- come,” Nerbovik said. Furthermore, with the International has been “some concern” in the shipping
based Matson, a leading U.S.-flag Weighing in at over 51,400 metric Longshore and Warehouse Union industry that a recent import surge
carrier in the Pacific, which recently tons, the 850-foot long and 3,600 resisting automation at other terminals, has cooled. This thrust was caused by
christened the second of two Aloha class twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) Matson may enjoy a shippers last year trying
containerships, which are the largest capacity Kaimana Hila and Daniel K. favored status with to get ahead of possible
vessels ever to have been built in the Inouye are also Matson’s fastest vessels, dockworkers thanks to “We are still new tariffs affecting U.S.-
United States. with a top speed of nearly 24 knots, the fact that it owns a 35 China trade.
The new vessel, named Kaimana helping ensure on-time deliveries in percent interest in SSA seeing a strong “Though the import
Hila, is the sister ship to Daniel K. Hawaii from Matson’s three West Coast Terminals, the leading consumer demand rally has calmed down,
Inouye, which was christened in June terminals in Seattle, Oakland and Long U.S. West Coast terminal in Northern we are still seeing
and went into service in November Beach. operator. a strong consumer
2018. “Kaimana Hila” is a Hawaiian In addition, both Aloha class vessels
California and
Daniel Smith, a prin- demand in Northern
transliteration of “Diamond Head,” the incorporate the latest environmentally cipal of the Tioga Group, western Nevada,” California and Nevada,”
name of Hawaii’s iconic landmark crater friendly technology, including dual- further noted that Mat- — Port of Oakland said Port of Oakland
near Waikiki Beach. fuel engines that can be adapted to use son has not needed au- Maritime Director Maritime Director John
The two ships were built for liquefied natural gas (LNG), double-hull tomation to date and Driscoll. “The Bay Area’s
Honolulu-based Matson by Philly fuel tanks, fresh-water ballast systems probably doesn’t for the
John Driscoll. strong consumer-based
Shipyard, Inc. (PSI), the wholly-owned and a more fuel-efficient hull design. near future, as it provides economy has helped the
U.S. subsidiary of Philly Shipyard ASA, This comes at a time when ocean terminal and stevedoring Port of Oakland absorb
and comes at a time when the Jones Act carriers in other trade lanes are mired in services to carriers at seven key facilities. the impact of the weakening rally better
“Their terminals operations are than other ports.”
simpler and self-contained,” he said, Last month, Oakland handled
“and do not have truck dwell time issues 213,972 TEUs, compared to 193,341
that others must face.” in March 2018. That represents at 10.7
percent increase. Loaded exports also
Port of Oakland Reports Positive grew 7.6 percent last month compared
First Quarter to March 2018.
The port’s communications director,
The Port of Oakland today reported a Mike Zampa, said that while he is
positive first quarter in its cargo volume. encouraged to see a return to growth last
Through the end of March 2019, the month, all bets are off for now.
port handled 612,151 TEUs, compared
Patrick Burnson is the executive editor of Logistics Management.
www.logisticsmgmt.com
6 May 2019 www.baycrossings.com
WHO’S AT THE HELM?
Alvin Haymon
BY MATT LARSON time,” Haymon explained. These factors comes to transportation,
especially come into play for landing— Haymon’s covered all the
or, as some would say, “parking”—the bases. “It’s the freedom of
A
s Blue & Gold Fleet celebrates its vessel at the ferry terminal. moving from point A to
40th anniversary, Alvin Haymon “The landing is where the magic point B,” he said. “What
is celebrating his fourth year happens,” Haymon said. “You want happens in between,
with the company as a deckhand and to set yourself up for the best possible you know, is sometimes
looking forward to his first as a captain. landing; I go in with an idea of what I unpredictable.”
He recently completed his captain’s want to do. As I’m making that approach, We don’t know
evaluation, so by the time you read this, if everything is working as I planned it, whether the founders of
Haymon may be up in the helm already. then great. If not, then I have to make Blue & Gold predicted
According to Haymon, the only the adjustments.” they’d be celebrating 40
downside of his transition from Over the years, Haymon has years, but Haymon has
deckhand to captain is that he won’t get collected hundreds of photos while a pretty good idea of
to interact with the commuters as much, traversing the Bay. He likes to point out how they did it. “They
which was one of his favorite parts of the landmarks to the passengers, like the East strive to be the best at
deckhand job. “Pretty much every day Brother Light Station. On the way back everything they do,”
you meet someone different,” Haymon to Vallejo from San Francisco, he always he said. “The quality
said. “You get to know people by face, makes sure to point out the Golden Gate of service is above and
some by name; I really like that.” Bridge shining bright between Alcatraz beyond, in my opinion.
He plans to come down and greet and Angel Island. “That’s one of my And they’re innovative—
Deckhand Alvin Haymon during training to become a captain. Blue
the passengers when appropriate, but favorite spots,” he said. “The views never coming up with new & Gold has a history of encouraging employees to work their way
Bay
for nowCrossings
he’s looking forward to being get old.” ideas, new ways, and ofBlueSkyNews.com
up the ranks. For more, see our cover story on page 12.
September 2018toRevised
the one responsible get commuters Born in Oakland, Haymon grew up course they stick to the700 W. Harbor Dr., Suite 1805, San Diego, CA 92101
and tourists10’toX 2.8
1/4 Page andColor
from their in Fairfield, which is where he currently old ways that work.” Tel: 619-233-2007 E-Mail: Monica@BlueSkyNews.com
destinations. “Being on the ferry, with lives. When he’s not working for Blue According to Haymon, customer In addition to top-notch service,
passengers, is like a dream job,” he said. & Gold, specifically on the Vallejo service especially is what makes Blue & you’ll find a smooth ride home with
“Seeing them smile brings a smile to commute run, he’s probably spending Gold stand out from the rest. “From the some of the best views on earth. “You
my face every day.” time with his wife, Michelle, and his time you walk on to Pier 41, someone’s can’t beat it,” Haymon said. “The ferry
Haymon said that no day is ever children, Jaden and Savannah. During going to approach you if you look like is definitely the best way to travel.
the same working on a ferry out in the his free time, he may take his 2018 you have a question,” he said. “From As a passenger, you don’t have the
Bay, and the differences are especially Dodge Charger out for a spin, or ride his the people who work the gates to those responsibilities of driving.” Leave that
apparent from up in the wheelhouse. 2016 Harley Lowrider down to Pismo working in the boats, you don’t get up to Haymon. “And when you look out
“The current, the wind, the conditions Beach or up to Oregon. personal experiences like that with other both ways, you’ve got a beautiful scene
change your approach a lot of the Cars, motorcycles, the ferry—when it companies.” on each side.”
Maritime Training
New State-of-the-Art Training Facilities in San Diego
Captain's License 100 Ton & OUPV
Classes Available From Alameda to San Diego
OnLine Courses Available
80 USCG Approved Courses
1150 Ballena Blvd #255
Alameda, CA 94501 For a Complete Course Schedule Visit Our Website: www.TRLMI.com
3980 Sherman Street, Ste. 100
San Diego, CA 92110 Call Today Toll Free: 888-262-8020
www.baycrossings.com May 2019 7
FERRY NEWS
What Comes Next After Toll Hike Ruling?
BY DAN ROSENHEIM he needed to complete his review of this year, and subsequent $1 increases in a statement. But Haggerty declined
the judge’s ruling before making a final are scheduled for 2022 and 2025. The to comment further, except to say
recommendation to his board. And plaintiffs argued the RM3 toll hikes are his organizations “look forward to
L
ast month’s court ruling dismissing Bittle added he would not rule out filing actually taxes—not fees—and that they evaluating next steps.”
an attempt to block toll increases an amicus brief in the Whitney case. failed to receive the two-thirds approval Asked about the muted reaction,
on seven regional bridges will likely For his part, Whitney said in a from legislators and voters required for a BATA insider said the agency doesn’t
reopen the spigot for billions of dollars in telephone interview that attorneys new taxes under Proposition 13. (RM3 want to say anything that might provoke
Bay Area transportation projects. for the Metropolitan Transportation won support from 55 percent of voters further action by the plaintiffs. “It is
The money could include upwards Commission (MTC), a defendant in his in the June 2018 election.) not our style to spike the ball in the
of $100 million in direct funding for lawsuit, have suggested he “surrender” in In his ruling on the Jarvis suit in end zone,” the insider said. Referring
the Water Emergency Transit Authority view of the judge’s ruling on Jarvis. April, San Francisco Superior Court to Bittle’s 90 percent certainty not to
(WETA), the agency that runs the But Whitney, a principal in the Judge Ethan P. Schulman rejected the appeal, the insider added: “We don’t
SF Bay Ferry system, as well as several Walnut Creek investment firm Thomas plaintiffs’ argument, saying a toll increase want to trigger the 10 percent.”
hundred million dollars in additional Capital and a member of the Alameda “to gain entrance to or use of state Bittle said his reluctance to appeal
ferry boat capital from new bonding Taxpayers Association, isn’t waving the property” (like state-owned bridges) is is based on fears that an adverse trial
power backed by the toll increases. white flag yet. He said that he, too, not a tax. The bridges in question are the outcome might set a precedent for other
But it will be at least two months, wants to study the ruling before making Richmond, Antioch, Benicia, Carquinez, tax litigation. “Yes, we are concerned that
and possibly many more, before any a decision on going forward, adding that Bay, San Mateo and Dumbarton. The a published appellate decision could have
money is released from the account he has reached out to the Jarvis group Golden Gate Bridge District, which also larger repercussions,” he said. “Anything
where it is currently held in escrow. That to discuss possible next steps. “I have recently announced toll increases, is an you could think of—ambulances, parks,
release is contingent upon two factors: not had enough time to dig in [to the independent jurisdiction. utility costs—could become a source of
one, a decision by plaintiff Howard Jarvis ruling],” he said. “But I have to review MTC, which is charged with revenue without any rules attached.”
Taxpayers Association not to appeal the why [the judge thinks] this is not a tax implementing the seven-bridge toll Meanwhile at WETA, the response
ruling within a 60-day window; and, [and determine] how much strength we increase and is effectively a defendant in was more enthusiastic. “Potentially, it’s
two, the resolution of a second lawsuit have.” both suits, hailed the court ruling, albeit huge, really exciting,” said Nina Rannells,
filed by East Bay businessman Randall The parallel lawsuits filed by the in understated terms. “We are pleased, WETA’s executive director. “We can
Whitney. Jarvis group and Whitney were intended of course,” Scott Haggerty, an Alameda actually start further development of
Tim Bittle, the Howard Jarvis to block Regional Measure 3, a ballot County supervisor and chair of both our regional ferry system. It gets us out
Taxpayers Association’s director of legal measure that mandated a series of toll MTC and the Bay Area Toll Authority— of the position of looking for funding
affairs, said this week he is “90 percent hikes on Bay Area bridges. The first $1 MTC and BATA, while statutorily to advance things and instead focus on
sure” there will be no appeal but said toll increase took effect on January 1 of distinct, share staff and boards—said projects and time frames—and let’s go.”
Treasure Island Development Agency Plays It Coy
BY DAN ROSENHEIM officials take an oddly elusive tack when about an eventual agreement between the island. Ordering a new boat, from
asked to specify exactly what terms they the two agencies. conception to launch, normally takes
are seeking. “We want to continue dis- “We are here to forge a partnership,” two years.
W
ETA and San Francisco’s cussion and work on an MOU,” Eric said Cordoba. He was echoed by WETA “Time is working against us,” said
Treasure Island development Cordoba, deputy director of capital Executive Director Nina Rannells, who WETA Chair Jody Breckenridge.
agency continue to dance projects for the San Francisco Transpor- said: “I’m optimistic we can figure out a Public transit, including a ferry
around an agreement on launching ferry tation Authority, said at WETA’s April way to make this happen.” service, is required under plans to build
service to and from the island in 2021— board meeting. “[But] frankly, we have But behind the diplomatically a huge new neighborhood on the island,
and so far, they’re out of step. our hands full in getting a toll rate ap- couched optimism lies the stark reality which has had only a small population
After months of discussions and proved.” that, after years of talking, the two and minimal commercial activity since
public utterances about timing and To be sure, the timing and amount sides have failed to hammer out terms its naval station was decommissioned
cost, there is still not so much as a of a toll on vehicles coming to the island that would allow for ferry boats to be in 1996. When the Treasure Island
memorandum of understanding (MOU) is a critical part of its transit finances. designed, bid, constructed, tested and development project is completed in
between the two organizations. And both Cordoba and WETA staff launched in time to meet a 2021 target 2035, it will have added 8,000 new
And Treasure Island development members express dogged optimism date for launching service to and from residential units to the island, along
8 May 2019 www.baycrossings.com
FERRY NEWS
with 500 hotel rooms and 300,000 behind that earlier date, but the island’s with a single side for a ferry and a second As WETA Planning Manager Kevin
square feet of office and commercial new neighborhood won’t be far enough side suitable only for a water taxi. Connolly recently told the board, in
space. The resident population is along to generate sufficient revenue— “We had understood we would have noting the absence of an MOU: “There
expected to hit 25,000—compared to whether through tolls, parking meters or a two-sided ferry dock, with a separate is no [formal] commitment from either
fewer than 2,000 today. transit fees—to pay for the ferries. And discrete facility for taxis,” said one side. Without that marriage [they] are
The first ferries were initially complicating the matter has been initial WETA official who has been involved in free to play the field—a private operator
scheduled to run from the island in resistance by San Francisco supervisors the planning. “But now it appears not.” could potentially provide this service.
2023. WETA board members and to charge tolls on the island, a resistance Despite the gap in perceptions and [But] we are going to continue to work
staff all believed that the development that is taking time to dissolve. apparently changing terms, it seems clear together.”
authority would pay for a ferry boat and So, in addition to changing the start that WETA wants a formal MOU that But if WETA’s intentions seem clear,
a big chunk of its operations, relying date for ferry service, WETA directors will nail down terms and allow it to move those of the development agency are less
on developer subsidies and monies say San Francisco’s Treasure Island forward. The ferry boat agency’s staff so. Our telephone and email requests to
generated by passengers, new parking transportation development authority and directors realize that inflexibility Cordoba to discuss his agency’s thinking
meters to be installed on the island and has backed away from paying for the on their part could push Treasure Island went unanswered for two days—and then
the toll charged to vehicles entering and ferry and much of its operation, instead developers to bypass the public sector a public affairs spokesperson requested
leaving the island. demanding that WETA come up with at and contract for ferry service from one a list of questions in writing. When we
But several water transit sources least a large part of the money. of several private firms—an outcome the reiterated our desire to speak directly with
say that, in the absence of a formal San Francisco’s apparently evolving ferry agency is anxious to avoid. Cordoba, the agency went silent.
MOU, that equation changed last year approach to both deadlines and financing
when the island’s private developers, was recently extended to the ferry dock
thinking that the presence of ferries itself, which Treasure Island developers Dan Rosenheim is a veteran Bay Area journalist who recently
would make their real estate offerings have agreed to underwrite. WETA retired after 18 years as Vice President/News for KPIX-5 TV. Prior to
more attractive, demanded that the officials said they have been working going into broadcast, Rosenheim worked as a reporter, city editor and
boat service begin in 2021. with the development agency on a dock managing editor at the San Francisco Chronicle. Dan and his wife,
San Francisco’s Treasure Island design for some time, but were surprised Cindy Salans Rosenheim, live in San Francisco.
development authorities have gotten recently when shown drawings of a dock
MARINE • CIVIL • DESIGN-BUILD
We specialize in Engineering Construction near, on, and under the water. To learn more, please visit us at:
www.PowerEngConstruction.com or call (510) 337-3800
Power_BayCrossingsAd_2018.indd 1 4/25/18 10:00 AM
www.baycrossings.com May 2019 9
it’s the perfect family day, and it’s only a bay away! EXPLORATORIUM • FISHERMAN’S WHARF • AQUARIUM OF THE BAY • PIER 39 Alameda | oakland | san francisco | south san francisco | richmond | vallejo FERRY ROUTE, SCHEDULE, TICKET AND TERMINAL INFORMATION — sanfranciscobayferry.com
FERRY Q&A
Ferry Questions Answered
F
erry Q&A is where you can to posted time restrictions and provided available. The fleet’s two oldest and most Berkeley - Mission
have your questions about Bay that the duration of time the vehicle is idiosyncratic ferries (Vallejo and Encinal)
Area ferry service answered by parked is paid for. There is no overnight were retired at the end of 2018 and
Bay Ferry Service
the professionals who speak parking in the lots at the Alameda Main we hope to offer the same comfortable
for the ferry systems on a daily basis. Street, Harbor Bay, Richmond or South experience on all of our vessels going Berkeley Marina-
Thomas Hall is the public information San Francisco terminals or the garage forward. We know capacity differences Pier 1.5-Pier 52 (Mission Bay)
and marketing manager for WETA, serving the Oakland terminal. We among the ferries affect queuing and Monday-Friday
the agency that runs the San Francisco recommend those taking a one-way trip fill-up times (especially on the Vallejo Free Parking @
Bay Ferry service. Priya Clemens is his into San Francisco use transit, shuttles or service), so we are looking at potential Berkeley Marina,
counterpart at Golden Gate Transit. other modes to get to the ferry terminal. solutions. Wifi, Beverage Service &
Their answers to your ferry questions are
Bikes Welcome
marked with a “WETA” and a “GG,” GG: We do not have overnight parking GG: Our ferries are not typically slotted
respectively. available at any of our terminals. In to a certain service every week, as we
Please submit your questions today Larkspur, while a ticket is valid for 24 need to maintain flexibility to cover
to info@baycrossings.com. hours, parking is still not permitted all our runs when a vessel is out for
overnight. maintenance. We work hard to service
What is the policy on overnight parking at our commute runs with high-speed
the Ferry Terminals? How can I find out in advance which catamarans to ensure 30- to 35-minute
ferryboats will be providing service at crossings. We also keep a high-capacity
WETA: Parking at the Vallejo Ferry specific departure times? passenger ferry on the Sausalito route so
Terminal is controlled by the City of our regular commuters are less impacted
Vallejo. Overnight parking is allowed in WETA: San Francisco Bay Ferry does during high tourism months.
Vallejo’s public waterfront lots subject not currently have a boat lineup page get tickets at
www.tidelinetickets.com
Ferry Short Takes Charters
Final Fare Increase: The last ferry fare ride he took to get to the pier site from Interim Ferry Landing for Chase and Events
increase in WETA’s five-year budget BART, Josefowitz said: “This is a place Center: A new interim ferry landing
plan takes effect July 1. Fares will rise that is very far away from everything.” and ferry service was announced last Tideline has over
three percent across the board for all The Berkeley ferry dock is an integral month for the Mission Bay neighborhood 20 landing locations
runs except Vallejo-San Francisco, part of WETA’s expansion plans, and it during special events at Chase Center this in the Bay including SF,
where monthly passes increase six isn’t clear how many other directors of fall. While a permanent ferry landing Marin, East Bay and Napa.
percent, or $22, to $388 from $366. the agency share Josefowitz’s concerns. is scheduled to open to serve Mission
Vallejo’s increase is larger because that Berkeley officials recently signed a Bay, it won’t be complete until 2021.
Our fleet can accommodate
run had been heavily discounted when memorandum of understanding for The interim landing is expected to be 10-149 passengers.
it was acquired from the city by WETA, a ferry terminal with WETA, and operational for special events including Check out our calendar
and the agency wants to bring it in line the agreement comes before the ferry the 2019/2020 Golden State Warriors for Special Events and
with its other routs. Passengers using agency’s directors for a vote in May. basketball season beginning October 1. Services to Ball Games.
Clipper cards receive a 25 percent The landing will be located at Pier 48½
discount. New Tideline Service Begins: The and will consist of one temporary float,
private ferry service known as Tideline loaned by the WETA. The interim ferry
Berkeley Ferry Future Unclear: WETA has begun operating at its new landing will have the capacity for special
Director Nick Josefowitz said he met landing location in the Mission Bay event service from regional ferry providers
with City of Berkeley officials to discuss neighborhood at Pier 52, next to the including San Francisco Bay Ferry and
plans for a ferry boat landing at a new Chase Arena. Starting April 1, Golden Gate Ferry and may serve the
rebuilt municipal fishing pier. Although Tideline added Pier 52 as a new stop Oakland-Alameda, South San Francisco
Josefowitz described the meeting as to its daily Berkeley commute service, and Larkspur ferry routes. The interim
“great” and “very, very helpful,” he and the company will also operate landing is currently in the design process,
said he remained much opposed to the charters from that location. Tideline and agency authorization and permitting
project because the terminal is too far also provides service to San Francisco is in process. Construction is expected to
removed from business and residential Giants games. begin in August pending permitting. The info@tidelinetickets.com
development. Describing the long bike estimated cost is up to $500,000.
www.baycrossings.com May 2019 11COVER STORY
BLUE & GOLD’S REMARKABLE
40 YEARS
THE BAY
ON
Photo by Joel Williams
BY JOEL WILLIAMS co-founder Roger Murphy’s son, Patrick we started, it really was family
Murphy, who was 12 years old when he oriented. My father hired three or
T
boarded the first Bay cruise that Blue & four maritime people that he had
his month, Blue & Gold Gold ran in May 1979. In 1982, at age met in the industry—but the rest
Fleet is celebrating 40 15, he started working for the company were my brothers and their friends
remarkable years of ferry as a summer job, mostly working in the and that family culture remains
and water excursion ticket booth. He continued working today.” Blue & Gold Fleet has
services on San Francisco part-time through college, eventually gone from 20 employees to over
Bay. The company was founded by becoming a full-time employee in 1989. 250 today. “But I still feel there is a
Roger Murphy and developer Warren “My father felt like you had to work family atmosphere,” Murphy said. Patrick Murphy, now president of Blue &
Simmons at the same time as PIER 39 your way up on to the boats,” Murphy His father was well known Gold Fleet, in the wheelhouse with his first
launched operations in 1979. said. Patrick got his captain’s license in for promoting from within daughter, Caitlin, in 2002.
The company started by providing 1995 and worked in the wheelhouse and mentoring his employees,
pleasure cruises from PIER 39’s West for an additional 10 years until 2005. particularly encouraging woman
Marina with a passenger vessel, Oski, Then, he transitioned to the front office, and people of color to study for captain’s ranks to captain at Blue & Gold Fleet.”
named after the UC Berkeley mascot, first as an operations manager, moving licenses. In fact, Blue & Gold Fleet After years of running pleasure and
and soon grew to three boats. (The Blue up to director of operations and finally currently employs more female captains charter cruises, Blue & Gold Fleet began
& Gold name also comes from Simmons’ becoming the president of the company than anyone else on the Bay. providing ferry service in 1991 with
alma mater; the main competition at the in 2017. “We have so many captains that Oakland/Alameda and added the Vallejo
time, the Red & White Fleet, was flying The family environment is pervasive have started out as deckhands and ticket route in 1994. These were contracted
Stanford’s colors.) at Blue & Gold Fleet even if your last sellers that have worked themselves onto service by the cities of Alameda and
To get a true feel for the history of name is not Murphy. “I’m so proud of the vessels,” said Murphy. “Even photo Vallejo, as there was no government
Blue & Gold Fleet, Bay Crossings visited our workforce,” said Murphy. “When sellers have worked their way up the agency overseeing operations at that time.
12 May 2019 www.baycrossings.comCOVER STORY
In June 1997, Blue & Gold Fleet
made a deal with Red & White Fleet to
take over approximately 70 percent of
Red & White’s assets—including service
to Alcatraz Island as well as ferry services
to Sausalito, Tiburon and Angel Island.
During this period, Blue & Gold was
omnipresent around Fisherman’s Wharf
as it ran extensive operations out of the
Pier 41 offices and docks. Alcatraz service
alone accounted for several thousand
passengers every day.
Alcatraz Island is run by the National
Park Service, so ferry service to the island
requires a federal contract. When the
Alcatraz ferry operations contract came
up for public bid in 2005, Hornblower
Cruises won the contract over Blue &
Gold Fleet and many changes ensued.
In September 2006, Blue & Gold was
forced to lay off 70 employees, sell a
few of its vessels and move out of its
waterfront office space on Pier 41. Photo by Joel Williams
There were some silver linings,
Current Blue & Gold Fleet President Patrick Murphy with outgoing Blue & Gold President Carolyn Horgan just before her retirement in 2017.
however. “We began refocusing our
energy back to what our original model
was, which was providing Bay cruise PIER 39, summed things up like this: as a Bay cruise tour provider out of day on its promise to connect riders
services like we did in 1979. And 2007 “I am tremendously proud of how far PIER 39 to running the largest fleet of with the incredible beauty of the San
still remains today as our best year as far Blue & Gold Fleet has come in its 40 vessels on the west coast of the United Francisco Bay.”
as Bay cruises,” said Murphy. years of operation. From its beginnings States, Blue & Gold Fleet delivers every
When the Water Emergency Transit
Authority (WETA) was established in
2011, Blue & Gold Fleet won the public
contract to operate all its ferry services.
Blue & Gold now runs the largest fleet
on the West Coast, with seven pleasure
and charter vessels along San Francisco
Bay Ferry’s fleet of 14 ferryboats, which
is expected to grow to 16 by the end of
the year. As a matter of fact, several of
the management staff at WETA now are
former Blue & Gold employees. “It’s a
validation that we are doing a really good
job in my mind,” said Murphy.
The WETA contract also allowed
Blue & Gold Fleet to return to its
waterfront offices at Pier 41, where the
company remains today. Blue & Gold
is also still affiliated with PIER 39,
which is a big plus as it attracts close
to 15 million visitors a year. “Blue &
Gold carries four million passengers
annually. The operations required to do
that are phenomenal,” said PIER 39 Vice
President of Marketing Sue Muzzin. “It’s
Photo by Joel Williams
a fine-tuned machine.”
Taylor Safford, former Blue & Gold For 40 years, Blue & Gold Fleet has been providing visitors and locals alike with fabulous opportunities to enjoy adventures on the spectacular waters
of the San Francisco Bay.
Fleet president and current president of
www.baycrossings.com May 2019 13GREEN PAGES
Agencies Propose Solutions
for San Luis Reservoir
Photo courtesy of the Bureau of Reclamationv
The San Luis Reservoir is an artificial lake located in Mercer county. Shown here during drought conditions, it provides water to Santa Clara and San Benito counties.
BY BILL PICTURE counties, including farmers, whenever District (Valley Water), have two to keep water flowing to Valley Water in
the reservoir’s water level gets low. The options—treat the water, or find water the dryer months. The new intake would
San Luis Low Point Improvement Project elsewhere that’s not green. be closer to the bottom of the reservoir
W
hat many drivers traveling Draft Feasibility Report was released last “None of those are preferred and allow for water to be extracted even
the Pacheco Pass probably month and outlines the costs, benefits methods to deliver water to customers,” when the level is low—without getting
don’t realize is that the body and environmental impacts of four said a Valley Water spokesperson. any of the algae that’s sitting closer to the
of water they see out their car window as proposed “action alternatives.” The problem with treating the water surface.
they wind their way between the Central The state pumps water to the to kill the algae is that the treatment A second option, the Treatment
Valley and the San Francisco Bay Area reservoir during the wet season from the stinks—literally. And not only does the Alternative Plan, proposes retrofitting
is more than just some Insta-worthy nearby Delta-Mendota Canal, as well as treated water smell bad, it also doesn’t Valley Water’s Santa Teresa Water
scenery. the California Aqueduct outside Tracy, taste great. But finding another reliable Treatment Plant to include an additional
The San Luis Reservoir is in fact and water is stored there until summer. source of water isn’t easy, particularly treatment step that uses ozone to kill the
the state’s fifth largest reservoir and a When the state extracts water from when water is as scarce a commodity as it algae and disinfect the water. Option
significant source of water for many the reservoir during dryer months and was during the epic seven-year drought three, the San Luis Reservoir Expansion
nearby communities. The reservoir sends it to nearby pumping stations for from which California is only now Plan, proposes adding fill material to
weathered seven years of drought distribution, warmer temperatures and emerging thanks to recent storms. And raise the existing dam’s crest and increase
conditions like a champ. Still, the Bureau the lowering water level create conditions if you believe in the reality of climate storage capacity.
of Reclamation and the Department of that foster algae growth. change, plenty more rainless days are in The last and locally-preferred option,
Water Resources, which jointly own and When the algae blooms get bad (and store for Californians. the Pacheco Reservoir Expansion Plan,
operate the reservoir, have some ideas for they do), the water districts that count One proposed option, the Lower proposes expanding the reservoir to
ways to ensure uninterrupted service to on water from the San Luis Reservoir, San Felipe Intake Alternative Plan, increase its storage capacity by knocking
end-users in Santa Clara and San Benito including the Santa Clara Valley Water proposes constructing a new lower intake down the existing dam and building a
14 May 2019 www.baycrossings.comGREEN PAGES
S AT U R DAY, MAY 1 8
new one a half-mile upstream. (There Proposition 1 Water Storage Investment
actually is one more option, and that’s to Program, a response to a drought that at
do nothing at all. That’s called the “No the time seemed might never end.
Action/No Project Alternative.”) And while the drought is now
The pro and cons of each option are technically over, the reservoir’s key
discussed at length in the report. When stakeholders agree that Californians very
asked to pick its favorite, the Bureau of much need to continue regulating their
Reclamation responded, “The federal water consumption. “It is important
planning process is a non-bias process.” to conserve water when possible to
Valley Water, on the other hand, maximize the benefits of available water
prefers option four, the Pacheco to everyone and the environment,” said
Reservoir Expansion Plan. During the a Bureau of Reclamation spokesperson.
year-long public selection process that “The demand for water in California
preceded last month’s report with the continues to grow.”
top four options, Valley Water collected Valley Water added that water
more than 70 letters of support for conservation and environmental
the Pacheco Reservoir Expansion Plan stewardship continue to be key tenets of
from business associations, agricultural the agency’s mission. And truth be told,
organizations, labor groups, natural they’re just happy that Sacramento and
resources groups, elected officials, Washington are working to address the
disadvantaged community advocates, challenges Valley Water faces delivering
fellow water districts and other clean water to its customers on a
municipalities. consistent basis.
“From Valley Water’s perspective, “It is great to see this project move
[this option] will not impact the forward with various solutions,” said
recreational use of the San Luis Reservoir, Valley Water Board Chair Linda J.
and will provide the highest benefits LeZotte in a written statement.
in longer drought conditions,” Valley The general public has until May 6 to
Water said. weigh in on the report. As of press time,
If the state chooses this option, no public comments had been received.
Valley Water has $484.55 million in The report can be viewed on the Bureau
cash to help pay for it. The money was of Reclamation website: www.usbr.gov/
awarded conditionally last summer from mp/sllpp/index.html.
funds set aside by the state under the
Photo courtesy of the Bureau of Reclamation
The San Luis Reservoir is California’s fifth largest reservoir
www.baycrossings.com May 2019 15NATURE
Ospreys Make
New Attraction for
Richmond Ferry Riders
BC STAFF REPORT Rosie laid her first egg of the 2019
nesting season with mate Richmond
on Sunday, March 31. This is the pair’s
R
The only livestreaming osprey cam in California is located within viewing distance of the new
ichmond residents now have third season together and, as far as can Richmond/San Francisco ferry route.
an additional attraction during be determined, Rosie has laid three eggs
their commutes, as the ferry total in each of the past two seasons.
passes close to the nest of osprey webcam Though ospreys can lay up to four eggs, incubation period for eggs can vary from community science effort that everyone
stars Rosie and Richmond every day. they most commonly have three eggs per 36 to 42 days. can join by using the interactive live
The osprey nest can also be viewed season. The ospreys will continue to fortify chat forum to report “deliveries” of fish
24 hours a day at SFBayOspreys.org— After the egg appeared, Richmond their nest. Biologists refer to this or manmade items to the nest by the
the only livestreaming osprey nest cam and Rosie shared incubation of egg duties, phenomenon as putting in “crib rails,” ospreys.
in California. The two HD cameras, though Rosie spent more time on the as the materials gathered during this On the lower half of the live chat
focused on both the nest and the eggs than her mate. Richmond seems to period are either very soft lining material page, all of the aggregate data for fish
surrounding area, switch to infrared after like sharing incubation responsibilities, for the bowl of the nest (which aids in and manmade items is validated and
dark (so there is visibility for watching however, and occasionally tries to oust incubation) or large sticks that will be then recorded in a spreadsheet on the
without disturbing the birds). Rosie so he can take his turn. The placed around the edge of the nest and page. The data can also be downloaded
will serve to help contain the future in several formats and analyzed, graphed,
offspring. and used for STEM education by school
From this point in the season, teachers, or by anyone interested in
SUPPORT THE BAY. Richmond will do most of the fishing for
the two birds. Golden Gate Audubon,
ospreys and San Francisco Bay ecology.
The person who accurately reports the
which runs the osprey cameras, invites most fish deliveries during the course
everyone to help keep track of which of the season will win a prize at the end
fish he brings in—and the unfortunate of the summer. (Each delivery has the
garbage brought to the nest as well. The first observer’s name recorded in the fish
SFBayOspreys.org website facilitates a matrix spreadsheet).
The smart cart for the urban shopper
Available at
Support San Francisco Baykeeper.
Bay Crossings store
San Francisco Baykeeper is the pollution watchdog for San Francisco Bay.
Since 1989, we have been patrolling the Bay for pollution, strengthening in the San Francisco
clean water laws, and holding polluters accountable. Baykeeper is dedicated
to restoring the Bay to a healthy, thriving estuary. Ferry Building
We rely on the support of people like you who care
about the health of the Bay and its wildlife.
Visit us online at www.baykeeper.org and
become a member today.
$60.00 plus tax
www.baykeeper.org
16 May 2019 www.baycrossings.comNew Trump Proposal
Threatens the Bay
BY SEJAL CHOKSI-CHUGH leeway to dump waste in all of these
creeks and streams. Developers could
build right next to these water sources—
A
new proposal by the Trump and in some cases, right on top of them. Photo by Don DeBold, Flickr/CC
administration poses a big threat The Clean Water Act, a federal law
The Trump administration wants to make it legal for polluters to contaminate some of the streams
to San Francisco Bay and to local passed in 1972, has been a monumental and creeks that flow to rivers that eventually empty into San Francisco Bay.
drinking water. force of good for the health of San
If it’s adopted, the rule would erase Francisco Bay. The quality of the fresh
Clean Water Act protections for streams water flowing into the Bay from the nationwide alliance that’s fighting this we’re working to put a stop to Trump’s
and creeks that flow only when it rains Delta has been steadily improving since harmful proposal. We are a founding destructive plan. And Baykeeper is also
or when the winter snow melts. A the law was adopted. member of the Waterkeeper Alliance, working to strengthen local and state
polluter would be free to contaminate The Clean Water Act provides extra one of more than 300 local organizations protections for the Bay. To stay up to
the water flowing in a creek if that creek, strong protections because it empowers working for clean water worldwide. date and help protect San Francisco Bay
during another part of the year, usually nonprofit environmental organizations Along with our fellow Waterkeeper from the biggest threats, sign up for our
goes completely dry. Protections would like Baykeeper to take effective action to organizations across the United States, e-news at baykeeper.org.
also be slashed for marshes that aren’t hold polluters accountable. The law has
connected above ground to a stream, been especially significant in reducing
creek or river—even if they connect visible pollutants in the Bay like raw
underground. sewage, oil and trash.
How bad would this rule be for The Clean Water Act also ushered
San Francisco Bay? I asked Baykeeper in a shift in how San Francisco Bay
scientist Ian Wren to investigate. He was perceived—from a dumping
found that over 40 percent of the Bay ground to a protected natural resource.
Area’s miles of streams would lose Before the Clean Water Act, there were
protection under the proposal. signs around the Bay that instructed
Many of those streams flow to creeks beachgoers and boaters to throw their
and rivers that eventually lead into San trash in the water. The Bay’s stinky odor
Francisco Bay. Some supply reservoirs was notorious. Sewage pollution was so
that are the drinking water source for bad that swimmers would get sick from
millions of people in San Francisco and spending time in the Bay.
Silicon Valley. Some are the spawning Thankfully, most of us now
grounds for endangered fish species, understand that we need to be better
DO YOU KNOW WHO CAUGHT YOUR FISH?
including endangered salmon. And stewards of our waters. But the Trump ... SCOMA’S DOES!
many of the streams and creeks that administration is only catering to Local fishermen help Scoma’s to achieve our goal of providing the freshest fish
would lose protection are already corporate interests. Its short-sighted new possible to our guests; from our PIER to your PLATE Scoma’s is the only restaurant
threatened by pollution, development, in San Francisco where fisherman pull up to our pier to sell us fish!
rule would reverse a lot of the progress
mining and agriculture. that’s been made protecting the water Whenever our own boat cannot keep up with customer demand, Scoma’s has
Without Clean Water Act flowing through the Delta and the Bay. always believed in supporting the local fishing community. On any given day,
protections, polluters would have more Fortunately, Baykeeper is part of a Scoma’s knows which boat and what captain caught not only our salmon,
but any other species of fish we serve as well.
SCOMA’S RESTAURANT
1965 AL SCOMA WAY, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94133
Sejal Choksi-Chugh is the Executive Director of San Francisco Baykeeper.
415 771 4383 SCOMAS.COM
Since 1989, Baykeeper has been defending San Francisco Bay from the
biggest threats and holding polluters accountable. To report pollution in the WE OFFER COMPLIMENTARY VALET PARKING
Bay, call Baykeeper’s hotline at 1-800-KEEP-BAY (1-800-533-7229),
e-mail hotline@baykeeper.org, or click “Report Pollution” at baykeeper.org. ScomasSF
www.baycrossings.com May 2019 17Sip, Stroll and Celebrate at Jack
London Square in May
J ack London Square is the ideal place
to sip, stroll, shop and dine this May
with fun-filled festivals throughout
Mezcal, as well as food and beverages
from Corona, local breweries, authentic
Mexican restaurant Otaez and more. The
shopping for local art from
independent vendors and
live music.
the month! event is free and open to the public, and On May 25 from 1 to
Jack London Square’s Cinco de several Jack London Square tenants will 5 p.m., Drake’s Brewing
Photo by Lorenzo Fernandez-Kopec
Mayo festival returns to the Oakland participate in the festivities by offering Company and Bike East
waterfront on Saturday, May 4 from specials. Bay present the return of Attendees of the Jack London Square Art and Wine Festival can
enjoy tastings from more than 30 Northern California wineries.
noon until 7 p.m. The festival will feature Next, in celebration of Oakland Session Fest. More than
Latin performances and entertainment Art Month this May, the Jack London 30 local craft breweries
including traditional Folklorico and Square Art and Wine Festival returns will share a wide range of thoughtfully East Bay in its local advocacy efforts to
Aztec dancing, lowrider cars, dancing Saturday, May 11 from noon to 5 p.m. crafted, full-flavored and super refreshing bring about better, safer biking for all.
horses, wrestling, music from local radio Attendees can enjoy tastings from more low-ABV brews, perfect for kicking back A free bike valet will be provided for
stations, family-friendly activities and than 30 Northern California wineries, on a warm summer day. anyone riding in.
more. including Buena Vista Winery, Roth Attendees will receive one signature These events are just the beginning
In addition, there will be vendors Estate, Cornerstone Cellars, Rosenblum tasting glass and 10 tickets redeemable of summer fun at Jack London Square.
from Mercado Latinx, the Bay Area’s first Cellars and Wente Vineyards. Small for five-ounce pours from the brewery Visit jacklondonsquare.com to learn
market showcasing local Latinx artists, bites, craft beer and cider will also be of their choice. Entry is free, and in about other events including Dancing
foodies, designers, creators, crafters, available. General admission tasting addition to tastings, there will be live Under the Stars, Waterfront Flicks,
builders and dreamers. There will also tickets are $40, but the festival offers music, delicious food, family-friendly Second Saturdays, the Jack London
be a tequila garden featuring spirits from many free events, including interactive games with prizes and a homebrewing Square Farmers Market operated by
ArteNOM, Cimarron and Don Amado art works, live painting demonstrations, demonstration. All proceeds benefit Bike CUESA and more.
STEPS FROM THE FERRY
BELCAMPO · BEN & JERRY’S · DYAFA · FARMHOUSE KITCHEN · FORGE PIZZA
GROCERY CAFE · HEINOLD’S FIRST AND LAST CHANCE · KINCAID’S · LUNGOMARE
MIETTE · PLANK · ROSENBLUM CELLARS · SCOTT’S SEAFOOD · YOSHI’S OAKLAND
CALIFORNIA CANOE & KAYAK · CROSSFIT EAST BAY · ESPORTS ARENA OAKLAND
OAKLAND SUPPLY CO · PASSAGE NAUTICAL · REGAL JACK LONDON
472 WATER STREET, OAKLAND, CA 94607 | WWW.JACKLONDONSQUARE.COM
18Bay Crossings
May 4.2019
2019- New.indd 1 www.baycrossings.com 4/19/2019 2:46:23 PMCULTURAL CURRENTS
A Rich Mix of Late Spring
Diversions
BY PAUL DUCLOS at www.baycrossings.com/dispnews.
php?id=3454.
Beach Blanket Babylon, which began
A
merican Conservatory Theater in 1974, is sadly coming to end at the end
will continue staging the high- of this year. If you have not seen this show,
ly-acclaimed new production of or wish to revisit Club Fugazi before it’s
Vanity Fair through May 12. closed, get down there for the sendoff.
Image courtesy of the Fine Arts Museum of San Francisco.
Playwright Kate Hamill’s rollicking For more information, see www.
new stage adaptation of William beachblanketbabylon.com. Rubens’ Head of Medusa.
Thackeray’s classic 19th-century novel
speaks to 21st-century concerns. San Francisco Opera Prepping Baroque master established his career. In artistic choices that laid the groundwork
Ambitious Becky Sharp may not have Rusalka approximately 30 paintings and 20 works for his international fame.
been “to the manor born,” but she’s bent on paper, the exhibition traces Rubens’s Approximately 50 works from
on achieving such comfort at any cost. With the San Francisco Ballet having early development as a master painter private and public collections in Europe
Armed with fierce wit and calculating successfully staged its production of with a unique gift for depicting seductive and North America have been brought
charm, Becky forges The Little Mermaid, the and shocking narratives. Rubens was together for the exhibition. Many are
her own path through San Francisco Opera is not only a sought-after artist, but also a exhibited in North America or on the
London’s high society, preparing to replicate diplomat, shrewd business man, and a U.S. West Coast for the first time. The
dealing herself into a the magic in June with friend to scholars and monarchs. exhibition is arranged thematically,
game she was never Rusalka, a story about a Early Rubens explore the artist’s thereby revealing Rubens’s mastery of a
invited to play. water nymph, inspired meteoric rise to the first rank of European broad range of visual styles and subject
Displaying the cel- by Hans Christian painters through a series of social and matter, both historical and mythological.
ebrated audacity and Andersen and featuring
verve that she brought to the popular aria “Song
her adaptation of Sense & to the Moon.”
Sensibility, Hamill seeks We look forward to our
to conjure an inventive interview next month
and lively period drama with Jamie Barton, who
combining a fierce con- will be performing the
Photo by Scott Suchman
temporary edge with the role of the sea witch,
theatricality of Victorian Adam Magill as Rawdon and Ježibaba. There is an en-
Rebekah Brockman as Becky Sharp.
Burlesque. The New York tertaining clip on You-
Times described the play Tube of her performing
as “a gift to actors and a goody bag for its the role at the Met.
audience.”
More information at www.act-sf.org. Rubens Exhibit at Legion of Honor
Beach Blanket’s Swan Song Finally, now on exhibit at San Francisco’s
Legion of Honor through September 8 is
With the San Francisco skyline coming Early Rubens.
into sharp relief as your ferry approaches In 1608, after a period of intense
for docking, one can hardly blame you for artistic study in Italy, Peter Paul Rubens
thinking how closely this all resembles a (1577–1640) returned to his hometown
hat designed for Beach Blanket Babylon. All of Antwerp. He found a city eager to
the elements of the confection are there, renew its visual culture and ready to
of course, including our TransAmerica support him, a bold artist who worked
Building and the monolithic Bank of at a rapid pace and dramatic scale that
America. The jewel box we know as City could satisfy the demand for religious
Hall can also be seen looming just in front images while also supplying private
of the Golden Gate Bridge. collectors with works of ancient history
Two years ago, Bay Crossings con- and mythology.
ducted an exclusive interview with Beach Early Rubens is the first exhibition
Blanket Babylon producer Jo Schuman dedicated to the pivotal years between
Silver, which can be found on the website 1609 and 1621 when the Northern
www.baycrossings.com May 2019 19You can also read
