It’s been an eventful year…to put it mildly. I hope we continue to rethink the meaning of what is “right.” We have been exploring the meaning of truth, justice, and moral behavior, as we watch events unfold both here and throughout our country. This is a time of great change here in Hayes Valley, and our neighborhood is a petri dish of changes ongoing in our society. We must listen to others, even those who disagree with us, as differing viewpoints are valid in our democratic society.
HVNA board members are exploring way to encourage neighbors to share their experiences in our neighborhood through story telling. We plan to create places to tell and record stories of our residents. Stay tuned for more details and be thinking about stories you have to share, as a newcomer or as a long-time resident.
Hayes Valley continues to evolve. Even as the tech industry grows and its workforce moves into our neighborhood, this new workforce still wants community, local identity, and wanting to meet new neighbors. Our merchants now attract a global community to shop in Hayes Valley. Our wonderful merchants are now a destination in themselves, in addition to Patricia’s Green and the sculptures that continue to be installed there, as well as the Biergarten’s welcoming sociability.
We want to make sure Hayes Valley continues to feel welcoming to all, with the common thread of promoting a sense of neighborliness and community. Be a part of our community. Introduce yourself to your neighbors, join in local activities, volunteer at the many opportunities here, and most of all, join the Hayes Valley Neighborhood Association, where you can become a part of what is happening and participate as you can.
…and be sure to come to the 27th annual Hayes Valley Merchants’ Block Party…
* Friday, Dec. 1, 6-9 pm. It’s a night to support our merchants and explore the many new merchants who have joined our merchant family. There will be music, snacks, drinks, and lots of new experiences to explore.
* Sat, Dec. 2, 3-6 pm, at Family Day at PROXY for a TOY DRIVE (bring an unwrapped toy for a needy child in the Western Addition/Hayes Valley), a free photo at Das Bus (donated by Fig and Thistle Bar and HVNA), and a treasure hunt for kids and their families.
Enjoy this holiday season, and let the festivities begin!!!
By Gail Baugh, President