The Noe Valley Voice April 2026

THE NOE VALLEY VOICE

Readers Weigh In On Cesar Chavez Street Renaming

Voice Poll Prompts 700 Ideas— Some Serious, Some Not

By Corrie M. Anders and Sally Smith

One person thought Carlos Santana was the perfect replacement name for Cesar Chavez Street. Another suggested the honor should go to artist Ruth Asawa.

But not everyone picked a local icon. Nearly 700 people responded to an informal Noe Valley Voice survey on Facebook. It asked their choices for renaming Cesar Chavez Street.

When we began polling March 19, San Francisco seemed ready to erase “Cesar Chavez”—across streets, schools, and parks. The day before, a New York Times story had revealed allegations that the civil rights leader, who co-founded the United Farm Workers in the 1960s, had used his position of power to abuse women, including UFW co-founder Dolores Huerta.

“It is inevitable that [Cesar Chavez] street will be renamed,” said District 8 Supervisor Rafael Mandelman, president of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. Mission District Super-

Xela Imports Weathers Uncertain Times

Shop Faces Tariffs, Rising Costs, and Shifting Habits

By Matthew S. Bajko

Since 1984, Xela Imports has been a staple retail store in Noe Valley, selling jewelry, clothing, and handmade goods from around the globe. In 1992, Alessandro Bifulco took over the business and was joined a year later by his sister, Paola Heins.

From their store on 24th Street— which began in a “subterranean” space at 3961-1/2 24th St., then moved to 3925 24th St.—the siblings have watched the neighborhood change around them. They remember when the Second Spanish Baptist Church across the street was torn down and replaced with condos over commercial spaces and when the grocery store next door went from being Bell Market to Whole Foods.

They’ve said goodbye to fellow small retailers, who closed their doors as younger residents moved into the neighborhood and began to buy online rather than in brick-and-mortar shops. The forced closure of non-essential stores in 2020 due to Covid led to further disruptions to their business.

The siblings had just started to

ON PAGE 11

From Porch Songs to Music In the Square

How Gil Guillermo Is Shaping Noe Valley’s Sound

By Maria Verissimo

After years of acoustic-only performances, the Noe Valley Town Square has a new sound. Thanks to a recently granted amplification permit, music booker Gil Guillermo is expanding the lineup, bringing in diverse performers, and changing the experience for musicians and audiences alike.

When thinking of 2020, the need for social distancing instantly comes to mind as we remember the first days of the pandemic. The distance between neighbors, loved ones, and friends was established: 6 feet. However, times of hardship usually lead to innovation and creativity, and the need for community was a driving force for many in Noe Valley.

Cameras Ready?

Girls Film Fest Rolls Into Year 11

By Corrie M. Anders

The Noe Valley Girls Film Festival, now in its 11th year, has set the date for the 2026 event. It’s Saturday, Sept. 12, 4 p.m., at the Noe Valley Ministry, 1021 Sanchez St.

The NVGFF has also started accepting film submissions via the Noe Valley Girls Film Festival page at the site https://filmfreeway.com/NoeValleyGirls FilmFestival.

The rules invite girls to submit films in two age groups: 10 and under and 11 to 16. Entries can be comedic or serious but should be G-rated and no longer than 5 minutes

Festival organizers are also seeking volunteers, who are under 18 years old, live in San Francisco, and love seeing or making movies, to join the team that stages the event. Volunteers hold bake sales, review movies, solicit new submissions, find sponsors, and do other planning. (They also decide where to put the popcorn stand.)

The festival hands out prizes, including a first-place cash award of $250, second place $150, and third place $50—in each age group.

The submission deadline is Aug. 15. Finalists are expected to be announced by Sept. 1, with winners revealed at the festival event. For more information or to volunteer, email info@nvgff.com or the FilmFreeway platform above.

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THE NOE VALLEY VOICE

P.O. Box 460249

San Francisco, CA 94146

www.noevalleyvoice.com

The Noe Valley Voice is an independent newspaper published in San Francisco. It is distributed free in Noe Valley and vicinity during the first two weeks of the month. Subscriptions are available at $40 per year ($35 for seniors) by writing to the above address.

The Voice welcomes your letters, photos, and stories, particularly on topics relating to Noe Valley. All items should include your name and contact information, and may be edited for brevity or clarity. (Unsigned letters will not be considered for publication.) Unsolicited contributions will be returned only if accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

The Noe Valley Voice is a member of the San Francisco Neighborhood Newspaper Association.

Email: Editor@noevalleyvoice.com or Sally@noevalleyvoice.com

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Distribution: Call Jack, 415-385-4569

Display Advertising: Call Pat, 415-608-7634, or email PatRose@noevalleyvoice.com

Advertising Deadline for the May Issue: April 20, 2026

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CO-PUBLISHERS/EDITORS

Sally Smith, Jack Tipple

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS AND EDITORS

Corrie M. Anders, Associate Editor

Heidi Anderson, Matthew S. Bajko, Owen Baker-Flynn, Karol Barske, Michael Blake, John Ferrannini, Matt Fisher, Kathryn Guta, Emily Hayes, Jeff Kaliss, Megan Robertson, Roger Rubin, Maria Verissimo

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Art Bodner, Pamela Gerard, Najib Joe Hakim, Charles Kennard, Beverly Tharp

PRODUCTION

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DISTRIBUTION

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ADVERTISING SALES

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Contents ©2026 Noe Valley Voice

LETTERS

Last Season for Moonshot

Friends:

You may be familiar with one of the popular descriptions of friendships that friends are in your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. Well, I've found that the same is true for businesses. So, with very mixed feelings, I wanted to share that the season for Moonshot Studio [4066 24th St.] is coming to an end in 2026.

For all of you who contributed to this post-corporate career venture of mine— as friends, helpers, long-distance cheerleaders, advisors, customers, event organizers, social media followers, staff & parents of staff, and fellow NVPMA members, as well as everyone who stops in for friendly visits while in the neighborhood, thank you very, very much. Every bit of your support has been greatly appreciated!

I'm planning to close the store sometime after June and before the end of the current lease in September. Committing to another five-year lease isn’t the right choice for my family me, David, and Grace and, unfortunately, my request for a shorter term didn't work for my landlords.

I’ve loved opening and running Moonshot Studio as a transitional step between a corporate career and retirement. I had no idea how hard or rewarding being a small business owner would be, and I have absolutely no regrets, just gratitude. I will spend my time finishing this season in the most positive way possible, sharing the fun of scent-blending and product-making with as many people as possible. It will be “business

as usual” until mid-June, and then we'll likely have more limited hours through the summer. Wonderful Moonshot Studio staff have been among the greatest joys of the whole experience and I'm very grateful to them! All current staff are aware of the plans, and we’re working together for transitions that work best for each individual. (If you are hiring, please let me know. A couple of great staffers will be looking for new positions.)

If you have availability to pop in, I'd love to see you! Regardless, thank you, thank you, thank you for your interest and support for my very rewarding, nearly five-year, retirement-postponing business venture. Soon, in addition to having lots more time to spend with family, I'll have more availability for get-togethers with friends, and I look forward to all of that very much!

Teresa Fitzgerald Owner, Moonshot Studio 415-876-8724 www.MoonshotStudioSF.com

A Towering Mistake Editor:

Regarding your February story on rumors that ICE agents detained someone: Well, the Board of Supervisors, led by our Supervisor Rafael Mandelman, just approved a 10-story Macro Antenna Tower in Diamond Heights so “FirstNet,” currently being used for ICE communications with a bonus contract for AT$T, can provide coverage throughout our neighborhoods.

Other less intrusive systems were available, but FirstNet testified that the Macro Tower was required. So, welcome ICE to the neighborhood. Police and Fire do not require first responders to use FirstNet. Thanks, Supervisor Mandelman, for protecting corporate greed over neighborhood concerns.

Catherine Dodd, Diamond Heights

CRIME SNAPSHOT

A Small February Bump in Crime

Anuptick in residential burglaries and fraud reports contributed to a slight increase in crime in Noe Valley in February, according to San Francisco Police Department statistics.

The February total—68 incidents— was five more than in January, based on a Noe Valley Voice review of 10 categories of crime tracked on the SFPD’s digital incident map.

The 10 reported burglaries—up from six in January but down from 16 last February—included nine home or garage break-ins and one forced entry at an unidentified property.

Seven fraud incidents were reported, including four ATM or card-related thefts and three cases involving false impersonation or other schemes to obtain money. In January, there were only three such incidents.

As usual, the largest crime category was larceny-theft. Police logged 37 incidents, one fewer than in January. These included 21 shoplifting reports— most near Castro and Jersey streets— five car break-ins, four package thefts, one stolen license plate, and six other unspecified thefts.

Noe Valley, one of the safest neighborhoods in the city, recorded zero robberies and just one assault in February. However, four vehicles were reported stolen.

The Voice gathered the February data on March 13, 2026, from the SFPD’s “Map of Police Department Incident Reports: 2018 to Present” at data.sfgov.org.

As with the Police Department, the Voice does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information, as the data is subject to change.

Source: Dataset titled “Map of Police Department Incident Reports: 2018 to Present” at https://data.sfgov.org/Public-Safety/Police-Department-IncidentReports-2018-to-Present/wg3w-h783/. This data includes police incident reports filed by officers and by individuals through self-service online reporting for non-emergency cases. Disclaimer: The San Francisco Police Department does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or correct sequencing of the information, as the data is subject to change as modifications or updates are completed. The Noe Valley Voice scraped the February 2026 data for “Noe Valley” on March 9, 2026. “Noe Valley” on the SFPD’s digital map is bordered by 21st Street, San Jose Avenue/Guerrero, 30th Street, and Grand View Avenue/Diamond Heights Boulevard. Noe Valley Voice April 2026

If you witness a crime in progress, call 9-1-1. For recurring or non-emergency problems, call 415-533-0123. For nonviolent crimes (e.g., auto burglary or vandalism), file a report online at www.SanFranciscoPolice.org (see “Get Service”) or call 3-1-1. Anonymous tips can be texted to 847411 using the keyword “SFPD”. You also may call Mission Police Station at 415-558-5400 or use its tip line, 415-552-4558. Email is SFPDMissionStation@sfgov.org. Call Ingleside Police Station at 415404-4000; tip line 415-575-4444. Email is SFPDInglesideStation@sfgov.org.

Mission Station (630 Valencia St.) generally covers the northern and central parts of Noe Valley, while Ingleside Station (1 Sgt. John V. Young Lane) covers Upper Noe and areas near Bernal Heights and Glen Park.

Currently, Capt. Sean Perdomo (Sean.Perdomo@sfgov.org) leads Mission Station, and Capt. Gerald Newbeck heads Ingleside Station (Gerald.Newbeck@sfgov.org).

—Corrie M. Anders, Sally Smith

THE VOICE welcomes your letters to the editor. Send an email to editor@noevalleyvoice.com. Please include your name and contact information. (Anonymous letters will not be considered for publication.) Be aware that letters may be edited for brevity or clarity.

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Photo: Amanda Brauning

Photo: Amanda Brauning

Photo: Amanda Brauning

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Renaming Cesar Chavez Street: Voices From Noe

visor Jackie Fielder appeared to agree. “My office will support community efforts to remove Cesar Chavez’s name from any District 9 institutions,” Fielder said.

Meanwhile, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation to change “Cesar Chavez Day” to “Farmworkers Day,” just in time for the March 31 holiday. (Cesar Chavez died in 1993 at age 66.)

The street that bears his name in San Francisco runs east-west from Maryland Street in the Bayview to Douglass Street in Noe Valley.

It was originally called Army Street, as shown on an 1854 map drawn by John Meirs Horner for his “suburban” development, Horner’s Addition.

The name remained Army Street until 1995, when after much controversy the Board of Supervisors adopted the Cesar Chavez moniker.

An Army of Voters

The Voice collected answers to our admittedly unscientific survey for a full week. As might be expected, suggestions ranged from the rational to the ridiculous.

But it was somewhat of a surprise that over half of the respondents—350 to be exact—favored restoring the name Army Street. Clearly, the question had stirred a lot of emotions.

“Please bring back our beloved Army Street,” pleaded Catherine Lawton.

MJ Jasinski was also emphatic: “Army Street—always has been, always will be, no matter what you guys come up with.”

Raul Pleitez too was firmly in the Army Street camp. “It honors everyone who serves or has served the country in that branch of the military, regardless of race, color, or gender.”

Others, like Rudy Helphrey, cited history or practicality.

“When the city decided to change it to Cesar Chavez, they didn't ask the neighborhood whether they would agree with the change,” Helphrey avowed. “Many were upset. Not that they had an issue at the time with Mr. Chavez. But they had to do address changes, etc.… Many would still have liked it to go back to Army Street. The old neighborhood would have liked that even without this current discovery.”

Lydia Wrench offered, “Maybe we still have the old [Army Street] signs somewhere, so we don’t have to spend millions of dollars to change it back.”

City of Peace

But nostalgia was not shared by all.

“No to Army Street,” wrote Steve Rosewarne. “We dropped it for good

reason. I love Low Rider Way, though. It would be a fab event to christen it with a low-rider fest, repeated annually.”

Lianne Minez lent a fresh perspective. “As a newer SF resident, I had no idea that it used to be called Army Street. While I love history and really support the opinions of people who grew up here, Army Street as a name shocked me for sure, given the news of the day.”

Linda J. Wells noted that “Army Street was named for its use as a military route. Hardly what I’d want in my city of peace and love.”

“All the [Baby] Boomers saying Army Street really highlights the average Facebook user age," commented Leigh Allen.

Dolores Huerta: ‘Sí, Se Puede’

The second most popular suggestion was Dolores Huerta, seen as a true champion in the fight for equal rights. The Bakersfield, Calif., resident, who will turn 96 on April 10, currently heads the Dolores Huerta Foundation and is helping to build a new Dolores Huerta Peace and Justice Center.

Full disclosure: The Voice had noted on Facebook that “Huerta Street” and “Farm Workers Way” were already in the running. So poll respondents might have searched for other options.

Still, votes poured in for Huerta and the union she helped form.

“How about Huerta Street, to honor her and all others who quietly and without fame, visibility, or selfish gain have sacrificed so much for important causes,” wrote Jan Brittenson.

“Dolores Huerta Street,” agreed Stuart Koplowitz. “Honor a person who has dedicated her entire life to the betterment of a cause.”

“Dolores Huerta. Absolutely,” said Debra Hannula.

Katie Steiman suggested we use Huerta’s rallying cry: “How about Se Puede or Sí Se Puede Way? As a born and raised San Franciscan, please don’t go back to Army Street. Why glorify war? I never liked that name. I like Huerta, but don’t add the Dolores. It will confuse people.”

In declaring for Huerta Street, Allen pointed out, “Then we’ll have the intersection at Dolores and Huerta.”

Political and Historical Names

A good number of respondents wanted to honor political figures. Tim McGowan liked Gavin Newsom Street, Dimitrus Alexander preferred Feinstein Fairway, and Brian Mayfield backed Paul Pelosi Boulevard.

Saul Jean advanced the name Donald Trump, as did half a dozen other supporters of the President.

Trust us, that choice for renaming Cesar Chavez Street is a long shot in San Francisco.

Wrote Noe resident Tom Walker, “In light of our current political situation, I'd rename it Immigration Avenue.”

Anne-Marie Russo preferred “Ohlone Street.”

Robert Meslinsky explained why: “We should rename Cesar Chavez Street for its original area inhabitants… ‘The Ohlone Trail.’ With the arrival of Spanish missions (1769–1834) and later California statehood, the Ohlone faced displacement, disease, and violence.”

(Note: Ohlone Way already exists as a street in Glen Park.)

Others proposed honoring guerrilla leader Che Guevara or Joaquin Murrieta, the Mexican vaquero who allegedly avenged his family’s murder by targeting Anglo-American settlers during the Gold Rush.

Local Artists to Honor

The survey attracted many names of artists and musicians.

Robert Farina suggested Santana because “his family had a business on 24th Street in the 1960s called Santana Paints…. Perfectly befitting Carlos Santana, who grew up in the Mission. He went to James Lick Junior High School and Mission High School, and he is a Latino gentleman.”

Rudy Ferretti was thinking Santana

when he wrote, “One idea I’ve had is ‘Oye Como Va Way.’”

Jeff Steinman offered similar affection for another artist who’s achieved international fame. “How about naming it after Ruth Asawa [1926–2013]. She lived right nearby in Noe Valley,” he noted of the local icon. Asawa was cherished not only for her remarkable sculptures but for the many arts programs she founded and inspired in San Francisco.

Stoned Soul Picnic

Some respondents couldn’t resist ’60s heroes.

David Budd was fond of “Wavy Gravy Way,” a nod to a famous San Francisco entertainer and peace activist. There were votes for Bob Weir and Jerry Garcia of The Grateful Dead.

Faxon Bishop had this answer: “Just stick ‘Julio’ in front of ‘Cesar Chavez’. Problem solved.” Then we could salute the Mexican boxer considered the world’s best in the 1990s.

But to Lucas Adam the obvious choice was “Cesar Salad Street.”

People Aren’t Perfect

Joining the jokesters was Peter Werner, who suggested: “Nobody Goodenoff Street.”

But there was a kernel of truth in that t idea.

Kris Ruck wrote, “Maybe we should stop using people’s names, since something bad could be said about everyone, except maybe Jesus Christ.”

And “since no one seems to stand up in history as perfectly good characters, why don’t we stop naming streets and schools after individuals,” offered Sarah Love. “I am tired of people fighting over things. Please do not misconstrue that I approve of the behavior of Cesar Chavez, but the farm workers movement was really important to the welfare of a lot of people.”

When our survey came to an end on or about March 26, a consensus was building to match the wishes of Dolores s Huerta herself. Huerta had told the public radio program Latino USA and other media in L.A. and San Francisco that streets should not be named after her but “for the martyrs of the farm workers movement.”

In our poll, Harry Ballard got the last word: “Farm Workers Way.”

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Gil Guillermo— Music Maestro For the Square

Gil Guillermo, who had recently moved to a house at the corner of Sanchez and Duncan streets, became a central pillar of the community.

The formula included Guillermo’s life-long dedication to music and community-building and the lucky accident of his popping up on a Slow Street, where local efforts worked with city officials to close blocks to traffic, allowing for people to gather while respecting social-distancing policies.

“It was about a month into the pandemic, and I started going out onto the front steps of the house with a guitar and a little speaker and a set list that I hung up at the gate,” Guillermo said, recalling the spontaneous community his actions generated.

“As people walked by, I sat out there and said, ‘Hey, if you want me to sing you a song, pick a song off the set list,’” Guillermo said. “This caught on super fast, and within a few weeks I was doing what I ended up calling Tiny Porch Concerts.”

Guillermo’s reference to NPR’s Tiny Desk is a nod to the beloved show, where musicians perform in an intimate atmosphere inside a cramped office in Washington, D.C.

Noe Valley’s own Tiny Porch Concerts, which started as one man with a guitar, quickly grew into a neighborhood ritual. Neighbors arrived with picnic baskets and blankets, sometimes even folding tables, turning his front steps into an impromptu gathering spot. For nearly six months, crowds of 30 to nearly 100 people would spread out on the sidewalk and slow street, finding connection through live music in a time when both felt scarce.

The Tiny Porch Concerts eventually came to an end, but Guillermo’s role in the neighborhood was just beginning.

Among those who had watched the gatherings grow was Rich Hildreth, the longtime booker for Saturday mornings at the Noe Valley Farmers Market and for other events held in the Town Square, at 3861 24th St. between Sanchez and Vicksburg streets.

When Hildreth decided to pass the torch, he knew exactly whom to ask.

Two-Person Rhythm Section

Guillermo, a retired public school teacher, saw the opportunity as an extension of the work he’d always done. “I’ve done a lot of work that really was about community-building,” Guillermo said. “So this was just a kind of perfect marriage of my passion, which is music, and enhancing and building community.”

Guillermo’s years as a teacher taught him that building community was rarely a solo endeavor. At the Town Square, his closest collaborator is Leslie Crawford, whom he calls his “work spouse.”

“On the ground, it’s pretty much Leslie and me working hand in hand,” Guillermo said.

Their dynamic is built on trust and collaboration: Crawford is the overall event organizer for the Noe Valley Town Square, overseeing the bigger picture, while Guillermo handles the music.

“She and I will sit down and come up with a calendar for the year, every year. We say, OK, let’s have a big event on such and such a date, and then we fill in what kind of event,” Guillermo

said. “I ask her: what do you think about this music or this band? If it involves live music, I’m usually the one who books. But it’s really a collaborative effort.”

They’re supported by a wider team: Sylvia Vientulis handles promotion and Debra Niemann the funding, which includes public and private grants funneled through the Noe Valley Association, the park’s fiscal agent.

Gently Amplified

Guillermo and Crawford’s collaboration has touched every aspect of the square’s events. Lately, a big change is transforming the music experience, especially on Sundays.

For years, the Sunday afternoon events at the Town Square carried a simple name: Acoustic Sunday. “It was called Acoustic Sunday because we worked under the auspices of Parks and Rec, and they did not give us a sound permit,” Guillermo said.

That changed this year. Guillermo asked Crawford to approach the San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department, and in January it awarded the square a permit for amplified sound equipment.

“I kind of pushed Leslie to approach the parks department eventually, a few years into my job, and they actually granted us a permit to have sound equipment,” he said. “That’s a huge game changer.”

Now called Sunday Music in the Square, the concerts operate under what Guillermo calls “gentle amplification.”

“The idea is not to rock the plaza,” he said. “We have neighbors that we want to be considerate of. So when I tell musicians, I say we have permission to gently amplify. It’s really helpful for singers, because they’re not spending two hours trying to project, which can be a strain on the voice. It also allows bands to balance their instruments—oh, we need a little more

performers, and female performers.”

That commitment has shown up in the lineup. Guillermo has brought in Afro Indigenous music from Puerto Rico, Afro Peruvian music, Cuban music, and music from Brazil.

Musicians interested in playing can reach out through the square’s website—noevalleytownsquare.com—or simply look for Guillermo near the microphone. He manages many of the shows.

“A lot of it is word of mouth,” Guillermo said. “If you are a musician, you might have been to the farmers market and seen that there’s live music [Saturday mornings]. Some people go straight to our website and write a note there. Sometimes I look for specific types of music, and so I just ask around. We’re pretty informal and casual about things.”

Performers are compensated, though the space is a community hub, not a commercial venue.

More Music on the Way

For those looking to catch a show, Sunday Music in the Square happens roughly every two weeks. All events are free, family-friendly, and pets are welcome. Guillermo encourages attendees to support local businesses: “Part of the vision is to help promote the local businesses as well.”

guitar, a little less this—so we can get a nicer sound. But it’s not so much about amplifying per se. It’s to help bands just perform better and sound better.”

For audiences, the difference is noticeable, but not overwhelming.

“It fills the plaza with nice, ambient music,” Guillermo said. “It’s a much more pleasant experience for audiences and musicians. All the while we’re trying to maintain good relationships with the immediate neighbors across the street.”

Casting a Wider Net

Additionally, the new permit allows Guillermo to expand his options of whom to book to perform at the square.

“It allows me to cast a wider net,” Guillermo said. And he’s been intentional about where he casts it.

“I’m trying to diversify in every sense of the word,” he said. “I’m trying to bring in more people of color, young

And sometimes the man booking the music will be the one performing it. Guillermo plays with two bands: Projeto Novo, a trio playing a wellcurated list of music from the Portuguese- and Spanish-speaking world, as well as songs in Tagalog, Japanese, and French; and Alie & Me, a duo that performs an eclectic array of original and cover songs, including R&B, vocal jazz, country, Americana, and pop.

The Sunday Music in the Square series continues April 12, with a double bill: the Cabernet Quartet performs classical music from 1 to 2 p.m. and guitarist Luke Schwartz plays jazz, rock, and funk from 2 to 3 p.m.

You can come sing or bring an instrument to the “Community Music Hangout” on Sunday, April 26, from 1 to 3 p.m.

On Sunday, May 10, the Trikonaut jazz trio will get things moving with swing, Latin jazz, blues, and funk.

Upcoming “Big Events” at the Square include “April in Paris” on Saturday, April 11, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. with live music by the Au Contraires, and “A Night in Mexico” on n Saturday, May 2, from 6 to 8 p.m., featuring the all-female mariachi group Mariachi Femenil Orgullo Méxicano.

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A Bumpy Ride for Xela Imports

recover when the second term of President Donald Trump arrived, bringing with it the constant threat or imposition of tariffs on their imported goods. Other Trump policies upended longestablished good relations between the U.S. and its trading partners. With a business centered on merchandise from overseas, Bifulco and Heins have had to deal with one headache after another.

“I mean, is a rollercoaster, you know. It is a rollercoaster,” said Heins. “So I don’t feel like saying is bad. I don’t feel like saying is good. I have good days. I have days so-so.”

Bifulco acknowledged, “The business has been slowing down dramatically, unfortunately.”

Customers Like Family

Nonetheless, the pair remain committed to keeping the store open. Over the years, they have gotten to know their customers, whose children now shop at the store.

“With a small business, the customers grow with you. They trust you,” said Bifulco. “We become kind of bound with them and get to know their children like family members. We know what they need and want they want.”

Xela Imports is open every day— Mondays through Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Heins and Bifulco will open the store early for those who say they need a special item and call ahead (415-695-1323).

They are headed into one of their busiest times of the year, with people in need of presents for Easter baskets, Mother’s Day gifts, and gifts for graduating students. Popular purchases for such occasions are their jewelry made from Italian corals and ones from Naples fashioned as red horns that look like chile peppers and are considered good luck.

“I would like to see more people shopping in Noe Valley, coming here to support the small businesses,” Bifulco told the Voice over iced coffee at La Boulangerie in mid-March.

Asked if he would close the store for good this year, Bifulco said he didn’t plan to, joking he was “stubborn.”

For Heins, her devotion to keeping the store open is rooted in her interactions with customers.

“My personal thing is, I build a relationship with this neighborhood, with the people that live in this neighborhood,” she said. “For me right now, it’s more I talk a lot with my customers. It’s not … of course, we want to be productive, but you know, we’ve been doing this for many, many years.”

From Naples to Noe Bifulco initially relocated from Naples, Italy, to San Francisco at the age of 28 in the early 1990s at the invitation of a friend who had married a woman from the U.S. The couple owned a Guatemalan import store in the city’s Castro neighborhood and hired Bifulco to work there.

“I worked for them in their shop on 18th and Castro,” recalled Bifulco, adding that the store also would have booths to sell their wares at street fairs held in neighborhoods around the city. “I really got to know the city via these street fairs.”

Thirty-four years ago, Bifulco happened to be at a party in the Haight and met the founder of Xela Imports, Seth Hennings, an expat from South Africa.

Hennings ran the business with his life partner, Jan Mayor, as the Voice noted in a 1986 profile about the couple (reprinted on page 13 of this issue). In talking to Hennings, Bifulco learned he wanted to sell the business and move to Australia.

They worked out a deal for Bifulco to take over Xela, with Bifulco shortly thereafter moving into one of the apartments above the store.

Heins, who also lives in the building, had liked San Francisco when she came to visit her brother and moved to the city permanently to work with him at Xela Imports.

Back in Naples, she had been hired to do window displays for local stores in addition to working at a development company for the Italian government. At Xela Imports, she took on the role of manager for the store.

One reason the siblings have been able to keep Xela going is that Bifulco bought the building when his landlord decided to retire. Rather than putting it on the market, she struck a deal with him.

Thus, they don’t have to worry about being hit with drastic rent increases like other retailers when lease renewal time rolls around.

“If I were not owning the building, I would not be able to stay in business,” Bifulco admits.

Tariffs a Moving Target

Navigating Trump’s tariff wars has been trickier. Like many merchants in the neighborhood, Bifulco and Heins had to contend last year with seesawing tariff rates that Trump seemed to change on a whim, going from 150 percent to 50 percent, then to 30 percent, depending on what countries were able to appease him. It made it difficult for longtime suppliers in Asia to commit to filling orders from Bifulco.

“With the up and down prices, I can’t go to Thailand and Indonesia where I was going for a long time. They say [Trump’s tariff policy] is absurd and we

This February, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a lower court ruling that found Trump had misused his authority to impose the tariffs. In response, Trump imposed a 10 percent acrossthe-board tariff on all imports.

But Bifulco is still finding a lot of uncertainty among his suppliers. Prices continue to fluctuate and problems persist due to new rules and increased costs on shipments from overseas.

“I cannot promise, if I go to Asia, I will find this statue my customer wants. The people there cannot guarantee the price and whether they can ship to the U.S. Everything is uncertain right now,” said Bifulco. “A big problem for me, and a lot of small businesses, is the uncertainty of the market.”

Rising Costs, Global Strains

The disruption in global oil supplies due to the U.S.–Israeli war with Iran is also impacting the business. Bifulco said he already had heard from his Southeast Asian suppliers they would be raising their prices due to last month’s hike in gas prices.

“It looks like prices will really, really be different. I don’t know yet,” Bifulco said about how much he might have to raise his own prices.

He is planning to travel for two weeks in July to Southeast Asia to check in on his longtime partners. In October 2023 he was in Bali and Thailand for four weeks, but he is cutting his trip short this year due to the increased travel costs.

don’t know how much to charge you,” Bifulco said of his suppliers, with whom he’s built relationships over the years during frequent trips.

“I will see what the market conditions are and what is the reality,” said Bifulco, who expects to place orders on merchandise that should arrive by October for this year’s shopping

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Xela Buffeted by Trade Winds

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

season.

Last Christmas was a relatively good one, he said, helped by the fact that the store had merchandise on the shelves, such as Mexican tiles and products made with Bali fabric, from shawls and sarongs to head wraps and tablecloths. They continue to be well stocked ahead of this year’s holiday, said Bifulco, but he is concerned about being able to replenish his storeroom in time for Christmas 2027.

The advice Bifulco has for customers is to buy now if they find something they like, because the price may go up in a month or two. And the item may not be in stock, he added, if they decide to come back later in the fall during the holiday shopping season.

“I don’t know this year around November what you will find and what the price will be,” he said.

More Than Just a Store

He hopes newer residents of the neighborhood will make it a point to patronize the local businesses. Doing so not only ensures a lively commercial corridor, but it builds a sense of community, said Bifulco, through face-toface interaction with owners like himself.

“This is a place where you can come in and say hi. It is important,” he said.

Keeping the store open also keeps alive for Heins the artistic vibe she encountered when she first moved to San Francisco in the 1990s.

“I have this memory and my shop gives me this memory every day, and even my customers. They come in my shop, and new people, they come in my shop. You know, they always tell me, ‘My God, my God, it’s a shop!’

“So I’d like it to be here,” said Heins, who is traveling back to Naples this summer to help care for their aging mother. “Until we can do it [manage the store], we’ll do it, until we do not enjoy… I think we still enjoy.”

LEFT: As this reprint from the November 1986 issue of the Noe Valley Voice shows, the first decade of Xela Imports’ existence was as affected by world affairs as the current one. In October 1986, the U.S. Congress imposed anti-apartheid sanctions on South Africa, severely limiting trade.

Monday through Saturday 5:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

5:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

SHORT TAKES

Garden Tour Turns 20— With a Block Party Bonus

The Friends of Noe Valley Garden Tour marks a milestone this spring, celebrating its 20th anniversary—on Saturday, May 16, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.—along with a neighborhood block party.

This year’s tour features 10 private gardens and seven sidewalk plots, offering a wide range of styles, from a lush tropical oasis and a peaceful shade retreat to a sculptural succulent “wave” garden and a hillside terrace with vegetables. A pair of century-old redwoods anchors one stop, while another showcases a compact “jewel box” bursting with color and texture.

Organizers Peggy Cling, Linda Lockyer, and Rose Griffin are once again leading the effort, with more than 20 local businesses pitching in as sponsors.

For the first time, the tour is pairing with the annual Slow Sanchez Block Party, closing Sanchez Street (26th to Clipper) to cars for a day of music, food, and kids’ activities. The event also includes a plant swap and gardening talks—on growing California natives, re-potting houseplants, and attracting friendly birds, bees, and butterflies.

Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors, and free for children, and are available at the Noe Valley Farmers Market (starting April 25), the Noe Valley Night Market (April 28), or online at friendsofnoevalley.com. You can find them also at Just for Fun, Noe Valley Books, Olive This Olive That, Omnivore Books, Urban Scout, and When Modern Was.

Free Popup in Noe Music’s Lineup

Noe Valley’s spring soundtrack will get a big boost as Noe Music rolls out a trio of April concerts, kicked off by a rare free pop-up in the Noe Valley Town Square.

On Saturday, April 18, the 13-member Grammy-nominated Palaver Strings will play a 30-minute “Dancing Home” concert in the Square at 3861 24th St., starting at 5 p.m.

Billed as “Strings in the Square,” the event is a chance to hear world-class music from the internationally known ensemble, which hails from Portland, Maine.

The music will continue Sunday, April 19, with a Noe Music Kids edition of Palaver Strings at 1021 Sanchez

St., from 2:30 to 3:15 p.m. At this event, kids and families can clap, move, and sing along with the musicians, playing a mix of classical, folk, and world music.

That evening, Grammy-winning tenor Nicholas Phan joins Palaver Strings for the main-stage concert “A Change Is Gonna Come” (5 to 7 p.m.), which promises to wow listeners with unique renditions of traditional protest songs and works inspired by contemporary social movements.

And mark your calendars for Noe Music’s May 10 event: “Together We Rise.” It’s a Mother’s Day concert featuring the San Francisco Girls Chorus alongside Iranian artist Mahsa Vahdat, Mexican singer/songwriter Diana Gameros, and Palestinian-American oud virtuoso Clarissa Bitar.

Noe Music notes, “At a time when power is being wielded as a divisive force, this gathering affirms the power of music to unite and uplift.”.

For ticket information, go to noemusic.org.

New Pastor Named at St. Paul’s

Father Thomas V. Martin, a long-time Catholic leader in the Bay Area, has been appointed pastor of the threeparish “cluster” of St. Paul’s, St. Philip the Apostle, and St. James.

The Most Reverend Archbishop Salvatore J. Cordileone on March 22 celebrated a Mass of Installation for Father Tom before a standing-roomonly crowd at St. Paul’s Catholic

Church on Church Street.

Martin, 61, is the second pastor to lead the Noe Valley cluster and had been serving as its administrator since November. He succeeds Father Mario Farana, the popular St. Paul’s priest who died last August.

Archbishop Cordileone told the gathering that he was especially grateful for Father Tom, a familiar figure working as an associate vicar for clergy.

“He has a spirit of service that is always ready to serve. He is a key collaborator in the archdiocese, and I never cease to be amazed by his capacity for work—in the kitchen as well as in the office and in church.”

Martin addressed the crowd at the end of the mass.

“I look forward to building a future with you upon what is already a strong foundation from those who came before us. God has given us this time to forge a future here in Noe Valley of faith, hope, love, and charity.”

Father Tom will be based at St. Paul’s, which the archdiocese described as “the centerpiece of the cluster.” He will serve as lead pastor there and coordinate functions with the priests at St. Philip and St. James.

St. Paul’s, known for its English Gothic architecture, unique twin spires, and role in the 1992 movie Sister Act, is located at 221 Valley St.

St. Philip the Apostle sits just off the 24th Street commercial corridor at 725 Diamond St.

St. James Church is located at 1086 Guerrero St. near 22nd Street.

Father Tom’s last assignment was at St. Pius X Church in Redwood City. Martin, who grew up in the Sunset District and attended Sacred Heart Cathedral High School, also has served as chaplain for the San Francisco Giants and the San Francisco Fire Department.

—Corrie M. Anders

Avenue Winds at Music on the Hill

In the final concert of its 2025–26 season, Music on the Hill in Diamond Heights will feature the woodwind ensemble Avenue Winds performing a concert of 19th- and 20th-century French music on Sunday, April 26, at St. Aidan’s Church, 101 Gold Mine Drive.

“Prepare your senses for a sweet musical evening of Gallic delights,” the quintet entices, including works by Darius Milhaud, Jacques Ibert, Claude Debussy, Eugène Bozza, and Jean Françaix.

Music on the Hill tempts us also with food and drink before the concert, starting at 7:30 p.m., and during intermission.

Tickets are available through Eventbrite or at musiconthehill.org. Adults are asked to pay $25 and students $15. Children 12 and under are free.

Currently composed of Victoria Hauk on flute, James Pytko on clarinet, Laura Reynolds on oboe, Jamael Smith on

Supervisor Candidates Face Off in Forum

The Noe Valley Democratic Club will host a forum this month featuring at least three candidates hoping to succeed Rafael Mandelman, outgoing District 8 supervisor and current president of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors.

The event will take place Thursday, April 23, from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Noe Valley Ministry, 1021 Sanchez St. “It will be a town hall style discussion of their different visions for the district,” said Democratic Club President Sam Maslin. The audience will be able to quiz the candidates on issues ranging from housing and homelessness to crime and business viability.

The event also is a prelude to the club’s making an endorsement in what is expected to be one of the hottest races in the Nov. 3 election.

At press time, the roster of candidates wishing to replace Mandelman, who cannot run again after serving two terms as District 8’s representative, included:

—Gary McCoy, longtime aide to U.S. Congressional Representative Nancy Pelosi and a former co-chair of the Alice B. Toklas LGBTQ Democratic Club and president of the Harvey Milk Democratic Club;

—Michael Nguyen, a patent attorney and a member of the San Francisco Democratic County Central Committee; and

—Manny Yekutiel, a community organizer and owner of Manny’s, a restaurant and community meeting space on Valencia Street. Maslin said the forum would be open only to NVDC members and those of the San Francisco Women's Political Committee, which is co-sponsoring the event. He said guests could join the club at the door with a $30 yearly membership (or $15 for students and seniors).

The club will follow up with endorsement discussions May 11 at a location to be announced. Participants can vote on endorsements only if they have “attended three total meetings and at least one in the past 12 months,” Maslin said. The actual endorsement voting will run May 25 through May 29, he said.

District 8 includes Noe Valley, the Castro, Glen Park, Diamond Heights, Cole Valley, Corona Heights, Mission Dolores, Dolores Heights, Ashbury Heights, Duboce Triangle, Buena Vista Park, and part of Twin Peaks.

To rsvp for the event, go to noevalleydemocrats.org.

—Corrie M. Anders

bassoon, and Daniel Wood on French horn, Avenue Winds was founded at the e San Francisco Conservatory of Music. The group has performed at numerous venues, including the Rossmoor Concert Series, University of San Francisco, the Presidio, Berkeley Chamber Performances, and the Old First Concert Series.

Unless otherwise noted, this month’s Short Takes were compiled and written by Sally Smith.

SHORT TAKES

Residents Await Quake Shack Hearing

Valley Street Cottage Wrapped in Plastic

By Matthew S Bajko

After an Oakland-based housing developer caused a public outcry last fall for demolishing a historic earthquake shack structure in Noe Valley, the city halted his plans to construct a single-family residence at the site

Meanwhile, residents who have waged a years-long fight to preserve the existing cottage are renewing their calls that it remain situated where it has long sat at the back of the property

Located at 369 Valley St , the structure was composed from combining two shacks originally built to house survivors of the 1906 earthquake For more than a decade, neighbors and preservationists have tried to convince planning officials to require that it not be moved

In 2015, the San Francisco Planning Department concluded the structure was of historical value and eligible for listing on a statewide register of historic properties in California The decision prompted then owner-developer John Schrader to rework his plans so

the shack structure would be incorporated into a larger residential home

Although residents objected to his doing so, Schrader ultimately secured the permits he needed to move the shack structure closer to Valley Street, raise it off the ground, and repurpose it as part of the front façade of a new home to be built on the sloped site The plans called for it to have four bedrooms and three bathrooms

Last year, Oakland developer Benjamin Steiner of Citadel Property Group acquired the property and began work on building the approved home But in November he was ordered by city officials to halt work at the site when it was discovered workers completely dismantled the shack structure rather than preserving it for relocation

The city’s acting zoning administrator suspended his permits, and Steiner was ordered to rebuild the quake structure, under supervision by planning staff, and reapply for a building permit In an email to planning staff, Steiner chalked up the dismantling of the shack as a “misunderstanding” that was “unintentional” and pledged “to taking every corrective measure necessary” to rectify the matter

“We followed all protocols with the pre-move paperwork and the city meeting prior to this occurrence, and we never intended to proceed outside of compliance,” wrote Steiner “I apologize for the inconvenience this has caused, and I want to emphasize that I value the historical significance of this structure ”

The earthquake shack has been reconstituted at the site with its façades wrapped in a protective covering to shield them from the elements Steiner has engaged architecture firm Page & Turnbull to devise a restoration plan

that will be vetted by the planning department

The Planning Commission will then hold a hearing on the project and vote on granting Steiner a conditional use permit to restart construction San Francisco Planning Chief of Staff

Daniel A Sider told the Voice last month that a hearing date had yet to be scheduled

Twenty-ninth Street resident Marc Norton, a vocal critic of the project, told the Voice in March that he and his neighbors would once again be asking the oversight body to require that the twin-shack structure remain at the back of the property

“We asked Steiner if he would reconsider his plans and work with our alternative plan, which would leave the earthquake cottage where it is He said no,” said Norton

The Cost of Living in Noe

TheNoe Valley Home Sales*

By Corrie M Anders

spring home-buying season in Noe Valley began with a burst of activity, including three sales that topped asking prices by more than $1 million

Nine single-family homes closed escrow in February, according to data provided to the Voice by Corcoran Icon Properties That was a notable increase from January, when just two residential properties a house and a condominium had sold

The rebound reflected both a seasonal upswing and an increase in available listings, said Christine Lopatowski, manager of Corcoran Icon’s 24th Street office Limited inventory earlier in the winter had slowed sales “If it’s not out there, they can’t buy it,” she said Demand remained high, particularly for updated homes

“We live in a high-tech area with

high-paying jobs,” noted Lopatowski “AI has come on board, and people are getting really great salaries and stock options ”

Eight of the nine February sales closed above their asking prices, averaging 19 percent over list Many were all-cash deals, said Lopatowski Buyer enthusiasm pushed the average sale price over $3 8 million

Three remodeled Victorian homes accounted for the largest overbids:

• A four-bedroom, four-bath home in the 800 block of Douglass Street sold for $7 25 million about $1 35 million, or 23 percent, above its asking price ($5 9 million)

• A renovated 1900-era house in the 800 block of Diamond Street sold for $4 65 million, roughly 33 percent over its $3 5 million list price It also offered four bedrooms and four baths

• An updated 1890s home in the 100 block of Vicksburg Street, which included a former carriage house, fetched $3 75 million, 39 percent above asking ($2 7 million)

Kevin Ho, a real estate agent with Vanguard Properties, said his clients

moved quickly to make a “super compelling and absolutely strong” bid on the Douglass Street house after they’d seen 15 to 20 prospective buyers touring the home the morning of the Super Bowl “We knew what we had to do to get a property in this competitive market ”

When his clients’ bid was accepted, “they were so excited,” Ho said The month’s top seller had been renovated by design-builder Eastwood Development Though it retained its classic 1900 façade, the house now boasted 3,434 square feet of living space and featured a chef's kitchen with a waterfall island and Thermador appliances, skylights, high ceilings, sliding glass walls, a family room leading to a deck and garden, a primary suite with a spa-like bathroom, two balconies, a media room with a wet bar, and two-car parking

The run on homes in Noe Valley also sparked condominium sales

Buyers paid an average 16 percent over asking for three condominiums in February, two more than in January

The highest-priced sale was a fourbedroom Edwardian that sold for $2 25 million, about 28 percent above its list price

Located in a two-unit building in the 1100 block of Dolores Street, the 1,948-square-foot home spanned two levels and featured hardwood floors, classic wainscoting, an eat-in kitchen, new appliances, a deck, panoramic views, and one-car parking

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To be eligible for seat appointment, you must have a minimum of five years professional experience in California as either a: (1) public accountant; (2) real estate broker; (3) attorney; or (4) property appraiser accredited by a nationally recognized organization, or certified by either the Office of Real Estate Appraiser or the State Board of Equalization.

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Qualified applicants will be invited to participate in selection. During selection, a panel of Superior Court Judges will interview each applicant and recommend the most qualified to be part of the pool from which the Civil Grand Jury’s 19 members will be randomly selected.

For more information, and to apply please visit our webpage: https://www.sf.gov/apply-join-civilgrand-jury

Housing Authority

Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher ProgramSeeking New Landlords

The Housing Authority of the City and County of San Francisco (Authority) is actively seeking new property owners to participate in the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program. The program provides housing assistance to eligible individuals and families by paying a portion of their rent to private property owners.

Key benefits:

1.Guaranteed Monthly Rent: Property owners can rely on timely direct deposit rental payments from the Authority.

2.Expanded Tenant Pool: Property owners gain access to a broader pool of prospective tenants.

3.Community Impact: Partnering with the Authority supports affordable housing and the community.

We are interested in expanding housing opportunities in San Francisco zip codes 94129, 94123, 94105, 94127, 94114, 94131, 94116, 94118, 94158, 94122, 94107, 94117, 94112, 94121, and immediate suburban areas. For more information, please contact us at customercare@ sfha.org or learn more at www.sfha.org.

STORE TREK

Store Trek is a regular Voice feature on new stores and restaurants in Noe Valley. This month, we spotlight a coyboy boot store called Routier.

ROUTIER LEATHER GOODS

3920B 24th Street at Sanchez Street 323-632-6493

https://routierla.com/

Athis store selling handmade cowboy boots for men and women, Xavier Granados only stocks footwear from Stallion Boots & Leather Goods, a 46-year-old company based in El Paso, Texas.

Displayed on the left side of the shop as you walk in are the men’s products; on the right are the women’s. Adorning the walls in different colors are alligator skins, one of the leathers used to make the boots.

Other options include ostrich, calfskin, and shell cordovan, an expensive leather made from a membrane (the “shell”) under the skin of a horse’s rump.

“My boots, you can line dance in them, but you can also wear them for going out to dinner or a show,” says Granados. “It doesn’t have to be a country show either. It can be rock and roll.”

Granados opened his Routier Leather Goods at 3920B 24th St., between Sanchez and Noe streets, on Feb. 5. Most recently leased by the ceramics store New Classic Gallery, the narrow storefront had long been home to magazine shop Good News until it shuttered in 2017. (In February, New Classic Gallery moved to Speckle Studio at 416 Cortland Ave.)

A basic boot at Routier starts at $1,195 and goes up from there, depending on the material and style. Granados can also help design a custom-made boot for you. A custom pair takes 12 to 16 weeks to produce and starts at $1,295.

“The boots are expensive, but they will last a lifetime if you take care of them,” Granados maintains. “They are also sustainable, since you don’t need to toss them out and you instead can get them resoled. It is like having a new boot.”

He also sells bolo ties, belts, and buckles. A vintage belt buckle starts at $95, while sterling silver ones cost $1,395, due to the current high price of commodity goods. “Everything is real. Nothing is fake or imitation,” Granados says.

He has not been impacted by Trump’s tariffs, he says, because the products he sells are all made in the U.S. However, he has noticed a slight uptick in costs for leathers that originate from overseas factories. Because it is illegal to do so in California, he does not carry anything made from python skins.

Granados says the cowboy style is what attracts customers—that and the arch support that the boots have.

“Once you get into a pair of boots, you could be hooked. I’ve seen it happen many times,” he says. “These are the finest handmade cowboy boots on the market.”

Granados, who lives in Mission Terrace, has been staying with friends since moving to San Francisco two years ago this May. The Southern California native first got into the leather boots business 23 years ago,

when he was hired to work at a store on Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles. It was the first time he bought his own pair of boots.

“Ever since, they are all I wear,” says Granados. He favors an ankle-high boot with a zipper known as a Zorro. “The one I am wearing looks western but is not screaming yeehaw!”

In 2020, Granados decided to launch his own business and focused solely on selling via his website, routieria.com. His client base grew to include musicians Post Malone, Slash of Guns N’ Roses, and Kiss cofounder Gene Simmons.

For reasons unclear to Granados, Routier’s online sales began to dip by 2023, so he began scouting out a brickand-mortar location.

To his surprise, he found cheaper rents for storefronts in San Francisco, where he’d often come to visit friends over the years.

He opened his first shop in the Cow Hollow neighborhood. It was meant to be a two-month popup. But he ended up staying for six months. Then he relocated to a space in Presidio Heights.

Needing to move again, Granados learned that the roughly 400-squarefoot storefront in Noe Valley was available. He was familiar with the neighborhood, having spent time with friends in Noe and celebrated birthdays at the Valley Tavern bar.

“It’s the perfect size,” he notes of his commercial space. “I don’t need much

more space than this.”

As for the store’s name, it comes from routier, the French word for truck stop. Granados says he was inspired by the late chef Anthony Bourdain, who once remarked on his TV show Reservations after dining at a routier in Burgundy, France, that the word would be a perfect name for a restaurant.

“I thought it would be a good name for a cowboy boot store. At some big truck stops, you can buy apparel,” says Granados, adding that because it is a

French word, “it sounds fancy, so I like that.”

Reaction to his opening in Noe Valley has been overwhelmingly positive, he says, with people popping in to welcome him to the neighborhood.

“I couldn’t have asked for a better welcome, honestly,” says Granados.

Routier Leather Goods is open Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. The shop is closed on Mondays.

—Matthew

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Noe VALLEY LOCAL Services

April 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30: STORYTIMES are Thursdays, 10:15 am and 11 am. Noe Valley Library, 451 Jersey. 355-5707; sfpl.org

April 2-30: The BAR on Dolores hosts free BINGO for booze and prizes, on Tuesdays, free comedy on Thursdays, and mahjong on Saturdays, 8 pm. 1600 Dolores. 695-1745.

April 3-24: The Noe Valley RUN CLUB meets Fridays at Noe Cafe, 1299 Sanchez. 6:45 am for 4 miles, and 7:30 am for 2.5 miles. noevalleyrunclub.square.site

April 3 & May 1: The Bell Appeal Choir rings HANDBELLS at Bethany’s “Ring Out Danger.” 9:35-9:45 am. 1270 Sanchez. 6478393; bethanysf.org

April 4-25: The FARMERS MARKET has fresh produce, food, and music Saturdays, 8 am to 1 pm. Noe Valley Town Square, 3861 24th. noevalleytownsquare.com

April 4-25: The Noe WALKS group strides on Saturdays, 10 am, at 24th and Sanchez. April 6, 13, 20 & 27: Toddler STORYTIMES are Mondays, 11:15-11:45 am. Tickets 11 am. Noe Valley Library, 451 Jersey. 355-5707; sfpl.org

April 6-27: Mamahuhu hosts MAHJONG Mondays from 6 to 9 pm. 3991 24th. 3747012; eatmamahuhu.com

April 7-28: Tuesday TRIVIA Night at The Dubliner begins at 8 pm. Wed., it’s bingo. 3838 24th. 826-826-2279; dublinersf.com

April 11: UC master gardeners talk TOMATOES. 2-3:30 pm. Noe Valley Library, 451 Jersey. 355-5707; sfpl.org

April 11: The Noe Valley Town Square hosts an “April in Paris” DINNER DANCE with music by Innuendo; 5:30-7:30. 3861 24th. noevalleytownsquare.com

April 11: Edd Kimber discusses the cookbook Chocolate Baking, 6:30 pm. OMNIVORE Books, 3885 Cesar Chavez. 282-4712; omnivorebooks.com

April 12: Sunday MUSIC IN THE SQUARE features the Cabernet Quartet from 1 to 2 pm, and guitarist Luke Schwartz from 2 to 3 pm. Noe Valley Town Square, 3861 24th. noevalleytownsquare.com

April 12: Ages 10 to 18 can learn to play MANCALA, an ancient African board

the Clutter Reclaim your Space! pat@patrosehomeorganizing.com patrose@gmail.com

game. 2-3 pm. Noe Valley Library, 451 Jersey. 355-5707;sfpl.org

April 12 & 26: Free Sunday morning YOGA FLOW offers all-level classes; bring water and a mat. 11 am-noon. 3861 24th. noevalleytownsquare.com

April 14: It’s LEGO and Board Game Night at the Noe Valley Library. 6-7:30 pm. 451 Jersey. 355-5707; sfpl.org

April 16 Noe Valley Books BOOK CLUB reads Almond by Sohn Won-pyung. 7 pm. 3957 24th. Sign up 590-2961; noevalleybooks.com

April 17: The Friction Quartet performs a CONCERT, 7:30 to 9:30 pm. Noe Valley Ministry, 1021 Sanchez. 282-2317; noevalleyministry.org

April 18: The Noe Valley Library hosts a PUZZLE SWAP, from 2 to 3 pm. 451 Jersey. 355-5707; sfpl.org

April 18: The SF Chamber Orchestra performs a SENSORY FRIENDLY concert, designed with the neurodivergent community in mind. 11-11:45 am. Noe Valley Ministry, 1021 Sanchez. thesfco.org

April 18: KIDS STORYTIME at Noe Valley Books features Jilanne Hoffmann, author of The Ocean’s Heart. 3-4 pm. Bernie’s Coffee, 3966 24th. 590-2961; noevalleybooks.com

April 18: Palaver Strings and tenor Nicholas Phan give a free POPUP concert, 5 to 5:30 pm, Noe Valley Town Square, 3861 24th; noemusic.org

April 19: City Guides offers a WALKING TOUR of Noe Valley, starting at 451 Jersey, at 2 pm. Register with City Guides, 3750468; sfcityguides.org

April 19: The Noe Valley Library hosts a workshop on “Mending and Upcycling.” 2 to 3:30 pm. 451 Jersey. 355-5707; sfpl.org

April 19: NOE MUSIC Kids features Palaver Strings in a “Dancing Home” program for children and families, 2:30 to 3:15 pm, 1021 Sanchez. noemusic.org

April 19: Tenor Nicholas Phan and the PALAVER Strings orchestra play protest music at “A Change Is Gonna Come,” 5 to 7 pm. 1021 Sanchez. noemusic.org

April 20: Alone Together BOOK CLUB for teens runs from 4 to 5 pm. Noe Valley Library, 451 Jersey. 355-5707; sfpl.org

April 21: ACTION-SF strategizes on third Tuesdays, 6 to 7:30 pm. Noe Valley Library, 451 Jersey; action-sf.com

April 21-25: COOKBOOK WEEK at Omnivore Books features lectures, dinners and pop-up events throughout the city. For schedule: 282-4712; omnivorebooks.com

April 23: Noe Valley Spring WINE WALK moseys along 24th, from 4:30 to 7:30 pm. noemerchants.com

April 23: The Noe Valley Democratic Club hosts a FORUM with three candidates hoping to succeed Rafael Mandelman. 6-8 pm. Noe Valley Ministry, 1021 Sanchez. noevalleydemocrats.org (see Short Takes)

April 24: Slow Sanchez HAPPY HOUR runs from 4:30 to 6:30 pm at Noe Cafe. 1299 Sanchez. 915-8876; slowsanchez.com

April 24-May 4: Castro Theatre screens the 69th SF International FILM FESTIVAL. 429 Castro. 621-6120; thecastro.com

April 25: Noe Valley Books celebrates BOOKSTORE DAY with a scavenger hunt, kids’ activities, and live music. 10 am-8 pm. 3957 24th, 590-2961; noevalleybooks.com

April 25: A FAMILY DANCE Party at the Noe Valley Library welcomes all ages. 2:303:30 pm. 451 Jersey. 355-5707; sfpl.org

April 25: Dance WORKOUT Rhythm & Motion is 4-5 pm. Noe Valley Town Square, 3861 24th. noevalleytownsquare.com

April 26: Community MUSIC HANGOUT at the Town Square welcomes singers of all levels. 1-3 pm. 3861 24th. noevalleytownsquare.com

April 26: The Corner Sessions monthly JAZZ concert at Dolores Deluxe runs from 1-3 pm. 2500 22nd. doloresdeluxe.com

April 26: Music on the Hill hosts a CONCERT by woodwind quintet Avenue Winds. 7:30. St. Aidan’s Episcopal Church, 101 Gold Mine. musiconthehill.org

April 28: The Noe Valley Merchants NIGHT MARKET offers local vendors, food, and music, 5 to 8 pm. 3861 24th. noemerchants.com

April 28: AUTHOR Jeanne Carstensen introduces A Greek Tragedy: One Day, A Deadly Shipwreck, and the Human Cost of the Refugee Crisis. 7:30 pm. Bird & Beckett. 653 Chenery. 586-3733.

May 2: The Noe Valley KNITTING Circle meets from 10 am to noon. Noe Valley Library, 451 Jersey. 355-5707; sfpl.org

May 2: The Civic Symphony performs a CONCERT of Chamber Music. 3-5 pm. 1021 Sanchez. 282-2317

May 2: Celebrate “A Night in Mexico” with the all-female MARIACHI group Mariachi Femenil Orgullo Méxicano in the Noe Valley Town Square, 3861 24th. 6-8 pm.

May 3: Vica Lew leads a PAINTING workshop for ages 10 and up, 2 pm. Noe Valley Library, 451 Jersey. 355-5707; sfpl.org

May 5: Natasha MacAller discusses being The Apothecary Chef. 6:30 pm. OMNIVORE Books, 3885 Cesar Chavez. 282-4712; omnivorebooks.com

May 9-June 20: Ruth Asawa: Untitled, an exhibit featuring sculptures, paintings, and drawings by artist RUTH ASAWA, opens at a new gallery at 1275 Minnesota. Reception May 9. 11 am to 4 pm. Ruthasawa.com

May 10: Noe Music’s “Together We Rise” CONCERT features the SF Girls Chorus, 5 to 7 pm. 1021 Sanchez. noemusic.org

May 16: Visit the Friends of Noe Valley GARDEN Tour, 10 am to 4 pm. Tickets at Town Square; friendsofnoevalley.com/news/ May 16: Slow Sanchez BLOCK PARTY includes plant swaps. 10 am-4 pm. Sanchez from Clipper to 26th. SlowSanchez.com

May Oui: The next Voice

MORE FOOD TO EAT

Chocolate Milk Frozen Yogurt at Easy Breezy

Yes, yes, yes. Those are the only thoughts running through my mind with each bite of the Chocolate Milk frozen yogurt at Easy Breezy Frozen Yogurt (4028 24th St.).

It threads a perfect needle: the richness and satisfaction of ice cream without the heaviness. It’s built on a low-fat yogurt base that almost tastes too good to be true.

Katie tends to go for the tanginess of the original OG Tart frozen yogurt, which I’ll admit is a very close second for me. But I’ve always had a soft spot for chocolate—especially in ice cream and milkshake form— because there’s something deeply refreshing about cold smooth chocolate done right.

This Chocolate Milk frozen yogurt hits that sweet spot perfectly, making it feel like a sustainable upgrade rather than an indulgent splurge. I also appreciate that I can calibrate my portion size to roughly match the calories it took us to walk over, keeping me neutral on calories but comfortably ahead on happiness.

I’ve never been much of a punch-card person, finding them easy to misplace, but the frequency with which I find myself at Easy Breezy has convinced me to collect the stamps—to get a free treat after 10 buys. Last year, the store made this easier with an app (how San Francisco). Gone are the days of carrying around a bent piece of cardboard. Now the tally is right there on your phone—ready for those nights when the soft-serve siren calls. —Matt Fisher, on the beat for More Food to Eat

Have a suggestion for a dish to try in Noe Valley? Send an email to Matt Fisher at MoreFoodtoEatNoeValley@gmail.com.

We’re Gardening, Wrestling, and Camping Just so you know: Upper Noe Recreation Center—the building at 295 Day St.—will be closed for spring cleaning from March 29 through April 6. However, the ball field and the outdoor green will be open as usual.

Also, volunteers from the Upper Noe Gardening Group may be planning its next community gardening day, to tend the California native plants in Upper Noe’s Native Plant Garden along Sanchez Street. The rec center is sprucing up its flower beds to take part in the Noe Valley Garden Tour on May 16. Visit https://uppernoerecreationcenter.com/gardens/ to learn more.

Spring Session is sprinting through April and May with lots of invigorating sports and activities. Coed Wrestling, Coed Boxing, and Women’s Boxing Fundamentals proved so popular during winter that they have been continued through spring. Also, there are new free activities, including Tweens/Women’s Volleyball and Women’s Basketball. Spectators are welcome to view the action at Girls League Volleyball games on Saturday afternoons.

Summer Day Camp registration opened March 21. Upper Noe will host nine one-week sessions from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays between June 8 and Aug. 14: Girls Play Sports Camp for 5- to 12-year-olds and Upper Noe Sports Camp for 9- to 14-year-olds. Check to see if the camps still have openings.

You can view the 2026 Spring Catalog and the 2026 Summer Day Camp Catalog at https://sfrecpark.org/406/Recreation-Programs.

Note that equipment for pickleball, ping-pong, and other activities is available from the office at 295 Day (415-970-8061). Friends of Upper Noe Recreation Center is the park’s stewardship group. To join or lend a hand, go to www.uppernoerecreationcenter.com. To report issues at the park, contact office personnel and/or San Francisco Customer Service (3-1-1).

—Chris Faust, Friends of Upper Noe Recreation Center

Upper Noe Rec Center Spring Session (March 17 to May 30, 2026) Rec Center Hours, 295 Day St.: Tues.–Fri., 9 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Sun. & Mon. closed (outside activities only); Park Grounds: Daily, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

SFMTA Board of Directors Meetings:

April 7 and 21 at 1 PM

Reunión de la Junta Directiva de la SFMTA Martes 7 y 21 de abril 1 PM

Mga Pagpupulong ng Lupon ng mga  Direktor Martes, Abril 7 at Martes, Abril 21 1PM

San Francisco City Hall, Room 400

1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place Infórmese sobre nuestro próximo presupuesto bienal y cómo afecta a Muni. Infórmese sobre los cambios propuestos en tarifas, tasas y multas, y envíe sus comentarios.

Alamin ang tungkol sa aming susunod na dalawang taong badyet at kung paano nito aapektuhan ang Muni. Kumuha ng impormasyon sa mga iminungkahing pagbabago sa pamasahe, bayarin at multa at ibigay ang iyong mga komento.

Tuesday

9 to 10 a.m. Zumba (outside) FREE 9 to 11:30 a.m. A Place to Play FREE 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Pickleball (all ages)

12 to 1 p.m. Pilates (18+)

1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Strength & Flexibility (18+)

2 to 4 p.m. Open Basketball (ages 6-17) FREE

4 to 6 p.m. Women's Open Basketball (18+) FREE

6 to 7 p.m. Tennis—Beginning (ages 8-10)

6 to 8:45 p.m. Open Basketball (18+) FREE 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Yoga Vinyasa (18+)

7 to 8 p.m. Tennis—Beginning/Intermediate (18+)

Wednesday

9 to 11:30 a.m. A Place to Play FREE 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Pee Wee Basketball 4/155/20 (ages 3-5)

12 to 1 p.m. Feldenkrais (18+)

12 to 2 p.m. Open Basketball (18+) FREE 2 to 5 p.m. Open Basketball (ages 6-17) FREE 4 to 5 p.m. Karate Kidz—Little Kickers (ages 6-8)

5 to 6 p.m. Karate Kidz (ages 9-12)

6 to 8:45 p.m. Adult Advanced League Volleyball (18+)

6:30 to 8 p.m. Coed Boxing for Adults (18+)

Thursday

9 to 11:30 a.m. A Place to Play FREE

9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Pickleball (18+) FREE 12 to 1 p.m. Pilates (18+)

1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Strength & Flexibility (18+)

2 to 4 p.m. Open Basketball (ages 6-17) FREE

4 to 6 p.m. Women's Open Basketball (18+) FREE 4 to 5 p.m. Petite Bakers (ages 3-5) 6 to 8:45 p.m. Open Basketball (18+) FREE 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Yoga Vinyasa (18+)

SAINT JOHN CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Excellence Through Compassionate Education

NOW ENROLLING TK-5 and 7-8

Website: https://stjohnseagles.com

Phone: (415) 584-8383

Email: officesj@stjohnseagles.com

EDD KIMBER WITH AMY GUITTARD • CHOCOLATE BAKING • 6:30 P.M. FREE!

SHELDON SIMEON WITH GABY MAEDA • OHANA STYLE • 6:30 P.M. FREE!

ALBERTO LANDGRAF WITH STUART BRIOZA • OTEQUE • 6:30 P.M. FREE!

DOMENICA MARCHETTI WITH KATE LEAHY • ITALIAN COOKIES • 3:00 P.M. FREE! SF COOKBOOK WEEK! Details: cookbookweek.com

COOKBOOK WEEK PANEL DISCUSSION • HETTY MCKINNON, VIOLET WITCHEL, COLU HENRY & REILLY MEEHAN WITH ALLIE LEHMAN • 6:30 P.M. FREE! Building Your Brand: Cookbook to Community (& Back Again)

COOKBOOK WEEK PANEL DISCUSSION • JOHN BIRDSALL, JUSTIN BURKE, SOLEIL HO & JON KUNG WITH CELIA SACK • 6:30 P.M. FREE! Queer Voices, Bold Flavors

TRINITY MOUZON WOFFORD WITH LAUREN HAYNES • EATING AT HOME • 6:30 P.M. FREE!

KRIS BUTLER • DRINK MAPS IN VICTORIAN BRITAIN • 6:30 P.M. FREE!

ANISSA HELOU WITH SARA DESERAN • LEBANON • 6:30 P.M. FREE!

NATASHA MACALLER WITH EMILY LUCHETTI • THE APOTHECARY CHEF • 6:30 P.M. FREE!

PAUL STANGL WITH GABY MAEDA • SAN FRANCISCO SEAFOOD • 6:30 P.M. FREE!

DIANE KOCHILAS • ATHENS: FOOD, STORIES, LOVE • 5:30 P.M. FREE!

CHILDREN’S FICTION

Miriam Moore-Keish explains facial expressions in This Is My Wonderful Face, illustrated by Bece Luna. Ages 3-6.

Bath Time for the Crayons, by Drew Daywalt, illustrated by Oliver Jeffers, is the 15th in the “Crayons Celebrate” series. Ages 3-6.

All the felines find homes At the Rescue Cat Café, written by Anna Humphrey and illustrated by Kari Rust. Ages 4-7.

Cricket Yumi dreams of being a magical firefly in The Firefly Crown by Yxavel Magno Dino. Ages 8-11.

CHILDREN’S NONFICTION

Dreams Take Flight: The Story of Deaf Pilot Nellie Zabel Willhite, a book written by Brittany Richman, with illustrations by Alisha Monnin, is part of the “Own Voices, Own Stories” series. Ages 6-9.

DK Books offers step-by-step instructions in How to Draw Favorite Characters from Walt Disney’s archive. Ages 6-12.

Flick! The Truth About Lizards, written by Annette Whipple and illustrated by Juanbjuan Oliver, answers all your questions about the creatures. Ages 8-12.

Brian Skerry and Stephanie Warren Drummer wrote The Ultimate Book of Whales: Up-Close Encounters With Earth’s Mightiest Mammals. Ages 8-12.

CHILDREN’S EBOOKS

Take a journey through a tunnel in the story/poem My Subway Runs, written by James Gladstone and illustrated by Pierre Pratt. Ages 3-6 years.

Duck for President is book 3 in Farmer Brown’s Barnyard Tales by Doreen Cronin and Betsy Lewin. Ages 3-7.

Jashar Awan’s picture book What a Lucky Day! encourages positive attitudes and avoiding judgment of others. Ages 4-8.

In A Kid Like Me, Norm Feuti’s graphic novel, Ethan struggles to fit in at middle school. Ages 8-12.

TEEN FICTION

In Twin Tides by Hien Nguyen, twin sisters solve the mystery of their long separation. Ages 12 and up.

Accidents plague the shooting of a slasher film in Final Cut by Olivia Worley. Ages 13-18.

In the dual love story There’s Always Next Year, by Leah Johnson and George M. Johnson, Andy and Dominique each overcome problems that seemed insurmountable. Ages 14-18.

Teens face jeopardy in a competitive gaming world in How We Play the Game, written by Alexis Nedd. Ages 14 and up.

TEEN NONFICTION

Rebecca Traister shows girls how their anger can be a positive force for change in Angry Girls Will Get Us Through. Ages 10-14.

Trans History: A Graphic Novel From Ancient Times to the Present Day, by Alex L. Combs and Andrew Eakett, gives evidence of gender nonconformity dating back 4,500 years. Ages 12-17.

Find out what’s toxic and what’s not in Fascinating Fungi: Nourishers, Killers, Connectors, and Healers, by Karen

MORE BOOKS TO READ LIBRARY EVENTS

Here Comes the Sun Sprouting up this month are the April titles from Children’s Librarian Madeleine Felder, Youth Librarian Cristal Fiel, and Adult Services Librarian Amy Lewis, of the Noe Valley/Sally Brunn Library. We thank them for sharing the latest reads at the branch—and Voice scribe Karol Barske for the book descriptions. To put items on hold, go to SFPL.org or get the mobile app at https://sfpl.org/services/mobileresources/library-catalog-mobile-apps/. Better yet, take a walk to the beautiful building at 451 Jersey St. If you need to speak with Felder, Fiel, or Lewis call 415-355-5707. Have fun.

Latchana Kenney. Ages 12-18.

In The Reality of Recycling, Stuart A. Kallen exposes the problems caused by plastic and electronic waste and extols the benefits of reuse. Ages 12 and up

TEEN EBOOKS

Ryan Douglass’ The Great Disillusionment of Nick and Jay offers a new take on The Great Gatsby. Ages 13 and up.

Cory McCarthy’s novel Postscript is set in a post-apocalyptic world where “a few sapiens are surviving off the last scraps of humanity.” Ages 14-17.

On her wedding day, Aurora finds out she must fulfill her true destiny as an immortal being in The Sun and the Starmaker by Rachel Griffin. Ages 14-18.

In The Cursed Queen’s Daughter, second in the “Thirstwood” series by Elly Blake, a warrior princess meets a shadow prince. Ages 14 and up.

ADULT FICTION

Lily, a bookshop apprentice, follows a trail of love letters found in a burned book in The Bookbinder’s Secret by A. D. Bell.

In Nina McConigley’s “silly but serious” novel, How to Commit a Postcolonial Murder, Indian-American sisters in 1980s Wyoming plot the death of an uncle.

Daniyal Mueenuddin “evokes contemporary feudal Pakistan” through characters joined by violence and tragedy, in This Is Where the Serpent Lives.

Vigil by George Saunders takes place on the final day in the life of an oil company CEO.

ADULT NONFICTION

Fly, Wild Swans: My Mother, Myself, and China is Jung Chang’s memoir of her journey to Britain in 1978 and her yearnings for family left behind.

In Kings and Pawns: Jackie Robinson and Paul Robeson in America, Howard Bryant details the House Un-American Activities Committee’s attempts to discredit Black heroes.

In Nothing Random: Bennett Cerf and the Publishing House He Built, Gayle Feldman catalogs the rise of 20th century popular literature.

Patrice Nganang remembers his tumultuous youth in Cameroon in Scale Boy: An African Childhood

ADULT EBOOKS

Xiaolu Guo offers a feminist reimagining of Melville’s Moby Dick in Call Me Ishmaelle.

In The Elements of Power: A Story of War, Technology, and the Dirtiest Supply Chain on Earth, Nicholas Niarchos reports on the global battle to control metals needed for batteries.

Maya Shankar tells how to function on The Other Side of Change: Who We Become When Life Makes Other Plans.

In The Rest of Our Lives, a novel by Benjamin Markovits, a middle-aged man confronts a crossroads.

ADULT DVD/BLU-RAY

Hamnet (2025), a film directed by Chloé Zhao, stars Paul Mescal as Shakespeare and Jessie Buckley as his wife Agnes.

Marty Supreme (2025), directed by Josh Safdie, features Timothée Chalamet as a narcissistic ping-pong player.

Song Sung Blue is a 2025 docudrama about a Neil Diamond tribute act, directed by Craig Brewer and starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson.

Wicked: For Good is a 2025 musical fairytale directed by Jon M. Chu and starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande.

All events take place at the Noe Valley/Sally Brunn Library, 451 Jersey St., and are drop-in unless otherwise noted. Be aware events are first come, first served. For information, visit sfpl.org or call the branch at 415-355-5707. Family Storytimes are Thursdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30, at 10:15 and 11 a.m. Tickets are available at 10 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Noe Valley Library, 451 Jersey. 355-5707; sfpl.org

The Noe Valley Knitting Circle welcomes those who knit, crochet, or embroider, and meets on Saturdays, April 4 and May 2, 10 a.m. to noon.

Renda Dabit teaches a Henna Workshop for ages 9 and older Saturday, April 4, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Reservations required: 355-5707.

Toddler Storytimes are Mondays, April 6, 13, 20 & 27, 11:15 to 11:45 a.m. Tickets are available at the door, starting at 11 a.m. Noe Valley Library, 451 Jersey. 355-5707; sfpl.org

Ages 10 through 18 can work on school projects, with help from a librarian at Homework Hangout; snacks available by request, on Tuesdays, April 7 and May 5, from 3:30 to 5 p.m.

The Persian Version, a 2023 film about an Iranian-American family, screens Friday, April 10, from 2 to 4 p.m.

UC Master Gardeners will show how to grow Vibrant Tomatoes in containers, on Saturday, April 11, from 2 to 3 p.m.

Learn to play Mancala, a two-player board game originating in Africa, on Sunday, April 12, from 2 to 3 p.m. For ages 10 to 18.

Drop in for Tech Help on Monday, April 13, from 2 to 3 p.m.

Family LEGO and Board Game Night is on Tuesday, April 14, from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

The Noe Valley Short Stack Book Club features Audition by Katie Kitamura, on Friday, April 17, from 3 to 4 p.m. Copies are held at the circulation desk for checkout.

Bring a jigsaw puzzle in good condition to the Puzzle Swap on Saturday, April 18, from 2 to 3 p.m.

SF City Guides’ Walking Tour “Noe Valley: Village Within a City” explores historic homes in the neighborhood Sundays, April 19 and May 17, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Reserve at 375-0468 (City Guides).

Lucy Ornelas of Youth Art Exchange leads a textile repair workshop on Mending and Upcycling. Kids ages 13 to 18 should bring a textile item to repair on Sunday, April 19, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Space limited.

Teens and tweens are invited to bring a book or a journal to the Alone Together Book Club, Monday, April 20, 4 to 5 p.m.

A Family Dance Party for children and their caregivers is on Saturday, April 25, from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Pajama Storytime for families happens on Tuesday, April 28, from 6:30 to 7 p.m.

Vica Lew introduces the Basics of Watercolor Painting for ages 10 and up. Sunday, May 3, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Reservations required: 355-5707. Make your own wall hanging patch or bookmark at Weave Yourself in Your Story with Cristina Edwards on Wednesday, May 6, from 4 to 5 p.m. Reservations required: 355-5707.

Action SF, the National Movement in Your Neighborhood https://m.facebook.com/ActionSFactivism/ Website: http://www.action-sf.com/

Email: ActionSFTeam@gmail.com

Meetings: Third Tuesday (April 21: contact actionsfsolidarity@gmail.com for zoom link), Noe Valley Library, 451 Jersey, 6-7:30 p.m.

Al-Anon Noe Valley

Contact: 834-9940; office@al-anonsf.org

Meetings: Wednesdays, 7:30-9 p.m., St. Philip Church, 725 Diamond St. (park on Elizabeth Street side; enter on 24th Street).

Thursdays, 7:15-8:30 p.m. Bethany UMC, 1270 Sanchez St. (enter through Clipper Street side door and go up the stairs)

Castro Merchants

Contacts: Terry Asten Bennett, President; Address: 584 Castro St. #333, SF, CA 94114

Email: info@CastroMerchants.com

Comerford Greenway

Contact: Howard Fallon

Email: ComerfordGreenway@gmail.com

Website: www.sanfranciscoparksalliance.org/partners/comerford-greenway/ Monthly workdays in Comerford Alley. Diamond Heights Community

Association

Contact: Betsy Eddy, 867-5774

Address: P.O. Box 31529, SF, CA 94131

Website: www.dhcasf.org. Meetings: Second Thursday, 7 p.m. Call for location.

Dolores Heights Improvement Club

Email: info@doloresheights.org

Website: www.doloresheights.org

Meetings: Third Thursday of every second month. Bank of America, 18th and Castro.

Duncan Newburg Association (DNA)

Contacts: Deanna Mooney, 821-4045; Diane McCarney, 824-0303; or Lili Wu, 647-0235. Address: 560 Duncan St., SF, CA 94131. Meetings: Call for details.

Eureka Valley Neighborhood Assn.

Contact: Board@evna.org

Address: P.O. Box 14137, SF, CA 94114

Meetings: See website Events. Castro Meeting Room, 501 Castro St., 7 p.m.

MORE GROUPS TO JOIN

Fair Oaks Neighbors

Email: hello@fairoaksneighbors.org

Address: 200 Fair Oaks St., SF, CA 94110

The Fair Oaks Street Fair is traditionally held the day before Mother’s Day.

Friends of Billy Goat Hill

Contact: Lisa and Mo Ghotbi, 821-0122

Website: www.billygoathill.net

Friends of Dolores Park Playground

Contact: Nancy Gonzalez Madynski, 828-5772

Email: friendsofdolorespark@gmail.com

Website: friendsofdolorespark.org

Friends of Christopher Park

Contact: Brynna McNulty, 818-744-4230

Email: friendsofchristopherpark@gmail.com

Website: FriendsofChristopherPark.org

Friends of Glen Canyon Park

Contact: Jean Conner, 584-8576

Address: 140 Turquoise Way, SF, CA 94131

Plant restoration work parties, Wednesday

mornings and third Saturday of the month.

Friends of Noe Courts Playground

Contact: Laura Norman

Email: noecourts@gmail.com

Address: P.O. Box 460953, SF, CA 94146

Meetings: Email for dates and times.

Friends of Noe Valley (FNV)

Contact: Todd David, 401-0625

Email: info@friendsofnoevalley.com

Website: friendsofnoevalley.com

Meetings: Two or three annually.

Friends of Slow Sanchez

Contacts: Christopher Keene, Andrew

Casteel

Email: info@SlowSanchez.com

Website: SlowSanchez.com

Friends of Upper Noe Recreation

Center

Contact: Chris Faust

Email: info@uppernoerecreationcenter.com

Website: uppernoerecreationcenter.com

Meetings: Email or check website.

Friends of Upper Noe Dog Owners Group (FUNDOG)

Contact: David Emanuel

Email: info@fundogsf.org

Website: www.fundogsf.org

Glen Park Association

Contact: info@glenparkassociation.org

Website: glenparkassociation.org

Address: P.O. Box 31292, SF, CA 94131

Juri Commoners

Contact: Dave Schweisguth, MI7-6290

Email: dave@schweisguth.org

Website: meetup.com/Juri-Commoners

The group is on hiatus and seeking a new leader. Call Dave. “Tidy up when you can.”

Liberty Hill Neighborhood Association

Contact: Dr. Lisa Fromer, president Email: efromer3@gmail.com

Meetings: Quarterly. Email for details. Noe Neighborhood Council

Contact: Ozzie Rohm or Matt McCabe

Email: info@noeneighborhoodcouncil.com

Website: noeneighborhoodcouncil.com

Meetings: Quarterly at Sally Brunn Library, 451 Jersey St.

Noe Valley Association–24th Street

Community Benefit District

Contact: Debra Niemann, 519-0093

Dispatch: To report spills or debris on 24th Street, call Billy Dinnell, 802-4461. Email: info@noevalleyassociation.org. Website: noevalleyassociation.org

Board meetings: Quarterly. See website. Noe Valley Democratic Club

Contact: Sam Maslin, President E-mail: noevalleydemocrats@gmail.com

Website: www.noevalleydemocrats.org

Meetings: Monthly at Valley Tavern or Tacolicious, dates publicized on website. Noe Valley Farmers Market

Open Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.; 3861 24th St. between Vicksburg and Sanchez

Contact: Leslie Crawford, 248-1332

Email: info@noevalleyfarmersmarket.com

Noe Valley Merchants and Professionals Association (NVMPA)

Contact: Kristen McCaffery, President, Kristen@novysf@gmail.com, 829-8383; or Kathryn Gianaras, Vice President, Kathryn@novysf@gmail.com

Meetings: 9 a.m. Call to confirm location. Website: https.noemerchants.com www.NoeValleyMerchants.com

Noe Valley Parent Network

An e-mail resource network for parents

Contact: Mina Kenvin

Email: minaken@gmail.com noevalleyparentsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

Noe Walks

Contact: Chris Nanda

Email: christopher.n.nanda@gmail.com

Website: NoeWalks.com

Meetings: Saturdays, 10 a.m. Starts 24th and Sanchez. Ends Noe and Duncan for photo. Progress Noe Valley Facebook: ProgressNoeValley

Email: progressnoe@gmail.com

Website: progressnoe.com

Meetings: Check Facebook page for current meeting and event schedule.

San Francisco NERT (Neighborhood Emergency Response Team)

Contact: Noe Valley NERT Neighborhood Team co-coordinators Maxine Fasulis, mfasulis@yahoo.com; Carole Roberts, carole_roberts@faludi.com

Website: https://SF-fire.org/nert

Visit the website to sign up for trainings.

Upper Noe Merchants

Contact: Info@UpperNoeNeighbors.com; https://uppernoeneighbors.com/merchants/ Upper Noe Neighbors

Contact: Chris Faust

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Website: www.uppernoeneighbors.com

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THE NOE VALLEY VOICE editor@noevalleyvoice.com

All phone numbers are in the 415 area code, unless otherwise noted.

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now for the RUMORS behind the news

Lettuce Share Shops

By Mazook

CLOTHES

CALL: An ar tist from the East Bay is popping up in Noe Valley on weekends and wishes she could do so more

Jil Cappuccio is doing a popup in the humorously named Haus Next Door

to Ar t Haus SF” (3977 24th St ) and filling half the shop with her unique clothing for men, women, and children

Cappuccio is also a teacher, who shows her seventh- and eighth-grade students at Korematsu Middle School in El Cerrito the ar t of sewing on Singer sewing machines In Noe Valley, her colorful shir ts, jackets, and dresses, which Cappuccio pieces together using vintage and found fabrics, are attracting kids and moms “like bees to honey,” she says Cappuccio has been creating ar t clothing for decades In the 1990s, she and her husband left Colorado to find a home in San Francisco and moved into the Castro (where she sold her pieces as well) “Then, after almost 10 years, we moved to the East Bay ”

Believe it or not, she loves her commute on B ART and Muni to San Francisco and can’t believe how nice ever yone is, especially in Noe Valley

“What a great neighborhood I have met many wonderful people who shop on 24th Street, and the merchants on 24th Street are just great I am just loving it all ”

The popup is happening on Saturdays from 11 a m to 4 p m

But another day might be added Ar t Haus SF owner ar t teacher, and ar tist Elizabeth Dekker plans to open the next-door galler y space for the Tuesday Night Markets at the Town Square

The Haus Next Door displays and sells Dekker’s ar twork and mid-centur y

potter y too, along with the works of Dekker’s students on occasion At her Ar t Haus SF studio/classroom, Dekker has been teaching ar t to neighborhood youngsters for the past six years

She says ask if you want to take a peek in The Haus Next Door during the week or anytime The space has its own tiny dressing room (a multicolored tent in the corner), where you can tr y on Cappuccio’s garments

Speaking of wonderful ar tists, Teresa Fitzgerald announced in a March 11 email that her soap, candle , and fragrance emporium Moonshot Studio, at 4066 24th St , would be closing this summer “I'm planning to close the store sometime after June , and before the end of the current lease in September

Committing to another five-year lease isn’t the right choice for my family ”

You can find the rest of her message to customers in the Voice Letters section on page 5

Fitzgerald thanks her customers and friends “for their suppor t for my ver y rewarding, nearly five years, retirementpostponing business venture ” Space won’t be the same without Moonshot

FAMILY FOOD: Friday, March 20, was the last day you could have a nice Italian dinner at Lupa Trattoria (4109 24th)

Owner Stefano Coppola first opened the restaurant 20 years ago “I had a good run, he says, but I am going to stop work and retire and do some traveling ”

Many of you old-timers might remember when the restaurant in that spot was Little Italy Like Lupa in its heyday, Little Italy usually had a line of customers waiting rain or shine I remember walking by one night when the line was so long the city’s fire inspector was there , closing the restaurant He told the crowd to leave because the place was a fire hazard and he was putting people on the sidewalk

Another restaurant is coming in to replace Lupa Called Perilla, it will be ser ving “Vietnamese fusion cuisine , ” in the words of chef/owner Michael Ho Ho opened his first restaurant in the Lower Haight several years ago, and he says he sold it to an employee and opened another restaurant in the Sunset, which he sold in 2024

“I have been looking for a spot in Noe Valley for several months and feel ver y lucky to have found this space in early March and come to an agreement with Stefano and the landlord,” Ho says He plans to open Perilla in early June , after redecorating the restaurant, creating his menu, and hiring people to manage the kitchen and dining room

“I plan to ser ve dinner from 4:30 to 9:30 seven days a week, with a menu that will be reasonably priced and ver y filling ”

Also opening soon will be a Mexican restaurant in the former Tacolicious space at 4063 24th St , called Bonita Taqueria y Rotisserie The poster on the front window says the taqueria will open “in the early spring,” which has already passed, so it could be opening in the early summer, in May or June

Bonita Taqueria has two locations that have been open for a while , one on Polk Street and the other in the Marina Both have a four-star rating Their menu features tacos, including carnitas, al pastor, and fish; complimentar y chips and dips; a paloma cocktail that goes down easy; and a range of salsas, which appear to be ver y popular Featured will be various rotisserie chicken dishes

Finally, Fiorella, in Noe Valley at 4042 24th, which opened in June 2024, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy (March 6 2026) This location is legally known as Project Pizza Noe , LLC The popular eater y ser ves wood-fired pizza and

Italian cuisine from 4:30 to 9 p m weekends, and 5 to 9 p m , Monday through Friday Under Chapter 11, it can continue to operate while Project Pizza restructures its finances

The other Fiorellas on Ninth Avenue , Clement Street, and Polk Street near the Presidio all filed for Chapter 11 relief last year

THE FARMER IN THE SQUARE: On recent Saturday mornings at the Noe Valley Farmers Market in the Town Square , you may have seen some new vendors Says Town Square manager Leslie Crawford, Our farmers market is coming back in force It never went away, but after the reign of plagues pandemics, fires, floods, economic hardship, and fierce competition among the city’s many markets for farmers we lost several vendors In 2026, we ’ re bouncing back ”

Among the new ones are Green Thumb Organics Farms, located in San Benito County, King Ranch from Watsonville , and David Upchurch Chocolatier and Mighty Chia pudding, both from San Francisco

King Ranch has a spectacular array of 14 lettuces The most popular, says farmer Jorge Silva, are the several varieties of radicchio I tasted the greenleafed one , which was delicious Green Thumb is a family farm, where four generations have worked Manager

Maria Gonzalez says six teams provide fresh vegetables for several Bay Area farmers markets ever y week They added Noe Valley to their list because “it is ver y family oriented, and we are ver y happy to have a space in this Saturday market,” she says Mighty Chia chef/owners Laurine Wickett and Jennifer Spiegel set out to make their own tasty version of chia seed pudding after discovering it on a trip to Iceland The pudding flavors are honey matcha (tea), vanilla, berr y, and mango Sounds good to me

David Upchurch, a true chocolatier lives in Noe Valley and shares a communal kitchen in the South of Market “I have been making chocolate bunnies for

15 years, using special-grade chocolates that I impor t from Ecuador I use a rabbit mold created in Dresden, Germany, way back in 1920 ” He says he “paid $700 for the mold when I first star ted doing this hobby and have been offered $15,000 for it, but this famous mold is priceless to me ”

On Sundays in the Town Square , from 1 to 3 p m , gently amplified music is being played (see the stor y on maestro Gil Guillermo on page 1 this issue) Last month, the group Jazz Beaus rendered a fantastic set They are Steve La Por ta on drums, group leader Tom Donald on bass, Chris Aschman playing trumpet, Volcanic on steel drums, and keyboardist Rob Moellering Encore , please!

HONOR ROLL: Congrats go out to Valley Chiropractic SF, Inc , at 1326 Church (between 25th and Clipper) In March it became an official legacy business, offering “gentle and compassionate chiropractic care ” Dr Michelle Paris founded the practice in 1996 Three years later, Claudia Kindler purchased it Kindler shor tened the name from Valley Chiropractic Health Center to Valley Chiropractic , then added “SF, Inc ” in 2023 Here’s an interesting fact from their legacy application: “For nearly 20 years, Dr Kindler had the privilege of treating the cast and crew of Beac h Blanket Babylon, providing monthly chiropractic care until the production’s closure in December 2019 ”

Congrats also to all of you Noe Valleyans who recently graduated from the SFFD’s NERT training The NERT trainees spend up to 24 hours in six sessions, learning disaster medicine , fire safety, and light search and rescue Maxine Fasulis, who coordinates the Noe Valley NERT Team, told the Voice in a March email: “We just added a half dozen or so people to the Noe Team after the class at the church next to the Diamond Heights Safeway Yippie!”

The neighborhood will be better prepared when the next quake rattles us

THAT’S ALL, YOU ALL. Ciao