During the hoopla surrounding the death of Henry Kissinger, we must not forget his dark side. He was an amoral practitioner of the art of realpolitik. His role in the overthrow of Salvador Allende, the democratically elected president of Chile, is an excellent example. In 1970, Salvador Allende, a socialist politician, won the 1970 Chilean presidential election. Allende said he was committed to democracy but was supported by the Communist Party. Fearing his election would push Chile toward communism, Kissinger became "the architect of U.S. efforts to destabilize” Allende’s government that ultimately ended up In a 1973, military coup led by Augusto Pinochet.  

For the next half-century, Pinochet led a brutal regime under which thousands of Chileans were disappeared, tortured, and murdered. When Pinochet’s human rights violations became a world-wide concern, then Secretary of State Kissinger assured Pinochet that President Gerald Ford's administration would not punish him for his violations of human rights.  

In a 2001interview by The NewsHour’s Elizabeth Farnsworth Kissinger was asked, "Why did you not say to him [Pinochet]: You're violating human rights? You're killing people. Stop it.?” Kissinger callously replied, "First of all, human rights were not an international issue at the time, the way they have become since.”

The last meeting of Thanksgiving week ended at 12:02 pm Tuesday.

After calls for a cease-fire brought the November 14 council meeting to an abrupt end

the entire consent and action calendar from the November 14, 2023 city council meeting was moved to 9 am on November 21. Most people missed the rescheduling announcement (it was in the Activist’s Calendar), but not a group calling for a cease-fire that showed up at the unusual meeting hour.

The calls for action on a cease-fire began within minutes of the start of the meeting and could be heard in the background while Mayor Arreguin ran through the early votes. Russell Bates was the loudest. Arreguin responded stating disruption would not be tolerated, disruptive persons would be removed and council would reconvene at another location, and he gaveled for a ten-minute recess.

Unlike the demonstration that ended the November 14th council meeting, this time a camera was turned into the room and Bates was loud enough to be heard on ZOOM. Arreguin attempted to resume the meeting in the BUSD Boardroom. When the public calls for action continued, Arreguin announced that due to the disruption the council meeting would be continued without the public present in another room.

When the meeting resumed in a smaller room the main agenda item, rezoning the Southside was up for discussion and vote. The Southside rezoning is a major overhaul, with bigger and taller buildings covering lots with little or no space between them. As with all zoning changes the path to approval goes through the Planning Commission first and then on to City Council.  

Besides bigger taller buildings, the amount of usable open space which would be required in this area went on the chopping block. Open space is normally defined as open to the sky and air for passive or active use. For the time being, that still defines open space for the rest of the city, and 50% of that condition for other locations can be satisfied with balconies that have a minimum length and width of 6 feet.  

In the new Southside zoning code 50% of the usable open space can be satisfied indoors with a pet washing room, a multi-purpose room or a gym/health club/fitness studio. The calculation of how much open space is required was changed from a per unit basis to per 1000 square feet of gross residential area.  

The new maximum height in the R-SMU (residential – southside multi-unit) increased to 85 feet / 8-stories, from a former 4 stories (5 stories with a use permit). While the new standard does not allow more height with a use permit, it comes with the possibility of density bonuses. Justin Horner, Associate Planner stated in his presentation to the council that with density bonuses the height could increase up to 100%. Since the amount of the density bonus is based on the percentage of below market units and developers have been providing the minimum number of units to qualify for the bonus, 10 to 12 story buildings are the most likely result.  

The C-T (commercial on Telegraph) is also 85 feet. The R-S (residential high-density Southside) is set at 55 feet / 5 stories and R-3 (residential medium density) is set at 45 feet / 4-stories.  

The Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ) runs through the Southside east of College Avenue. The very highest risk fire zone in the entire city, Panoramic Hill, backs up to the Southside on the eastern border and comes with the zoning code ES-R (environmental safety-residential). Other VHFHSZ areas of Berkeley (the hills) are in what is called the Hillside Overlay and have a H added to the zoning code.  

The Hayward fault runs through Panoramic Hill and the Southside with upper Bancroft, Channing and Dwight all located in the Earthquake Zones of Required Investigation. https://maps.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/EQZApp/app/  

It is unclear from the discussion and the documents whether the height limit in the hillside overlay will be 3 or 4 stories. Either one with a density bonus has the potential to crossover to high-rise definition for the purpose of how firefighters would respond. The H that should be added to designate the hillside overlay was included in earlier documents for the Planning Commission, but absent in the documents for Council.  

A high-rise is defined as above seven stories, though the transition to high-rise response begins above five stories according the Fire Chief Sprague. Response to a high-rise fire means calling more fire fighters and equipment. The example given to the Budget Committee by the fire chief was that a response to a fire in a low-rise building would need around 30 firefighters. Though fires in high-rises are infrequent, when they happen they are “high risk”. In rough numbers, 50 - 100 fire fighters might be needed for such a fire, and if it is more than a couple of rooms then significantly more firefighters would be needed. https://www.berkeleydailyplanet.com/issue/2023-05-08/article/50289?headline=A-BERKELEY-ACTIVIST-S-DIARY-week-ending-April-30--Kelly-Hammargren  

The Planning and Development Department has been insistent that all this increased density will neatly fit into the EIR (Environmental Impact Report) Update with no need for any adjustment other than for the Council to approve the addendum stating the conclusion, “[B]ased on substantial evidence, that the proposed project would not result in new or substantially more severe significant environmental impacts beyond those identified in the 2023 EIR due to substantial changes in the previously approved project…”  

The EIR declared that the Southside is underbuilt and since the new buildings will be built to higher fire safety standards that will improve Fire Department efficiency. That conclusion ignores the fact that the population in the Southside will easily double, could triple and college students do stupid stuff, get themselves in trouble and need emergency services. Some of that stupid stuff is forgetting about their e-scooters or e-skateboards with lithium ion batteries that are plugged in, overcharging and overheating and occasionally catching on fire.  

Fire Chief Sprague presented the Fire Department Facilities Master Plan to the City Council on May 16, 2023 with a thorough description of the upgrades and new facilities needed to serve Berkeley now and in the future. That seems like a long-forgotten memory for those who attended the presentation: Bartlett, Hahn, Wengraf, Robinson, Humbert and Arreguin. Kesarwani, Taplin and Harrison were absent. The City Council has yet to hear the presentation from Fire Chief Sprague on the Dispatch Needs Assessment (911 calls).  

I’ve heard both presentations and read the documents. We (the Council and the City) need to pay attention.  

Two Supplementals were submitted for the Southside rezoning. A Supplemental is best thought of as an alternative or addition to the initial proposal. In this case that was the staff report.  

Councilmember Hahn, who was on the Zoning Adjustment Board for years reviewing large multi-unit projects, had a much different perspective on the upzoning of the Southside than Rigel Robinson, whom I have never seen at a Zoning Adjustment Board meeting since I started attending in November 2014. Robinson’s perspective, with no visible experience, included in his supplemental and initial motion that any project, citywide, that meets SB 35 with 10% low-income housing on-site and prevailing wage should be eligible for ministerial approval (by right – a simple signing at the counter without Design Review Committee, Zoning Adjustment Board or public review).  

Hahn said this, “Zoning is not just about how you use your own parcel, but how the use of your parcel impacts other parcels and the public realm”. Translated, wall to wall 8-story multi-unit buildings that could go up to 12 maybe even 16 stories with density bonuses are dramatically going to change the Southside and the micro-climate (heat island effect).  

Hahn’s supplemental included using green roofs to combat the heat island effect, requiring windows in bedrooms, widening sidewalks, studying and landmarking of historical and cultural buildings and sites and incorporating affordable housing for low income students. The substitute motion that was supported only by Hahn and Harrison removed pet washing rooms from satisfying an open space requirement.  

In the final motion that was approved by all the councilmembers except Wengraf, who was absent, the recommendations from Hahn ended up as a referral to the city manager. It is hard to know how soon any of Hahn’s recommendations will see the light of day. The Bird Safe Glass ordinance took five years.  

The part of the final motion on the prevailing wage and ministerial approval citywide of SB 35 projects with 10% affordable housing will get fast tracked to meet the implementation date of March 1, 2024.  

Not much happened at the only other City meeting I attended during Thanksgiving week.  

At the Agenda Committee UC Berkeley students lined up to request that Harrison’s Resolution: Opposition to Police Brutality and Use of Force on Nonviolent Protesters stay on the agenda for December 5. They lost, of course. The Agenda Committee sent the resolution to the Public Safety Committee. Taplin’s item to name the planned new pier after Nancy Skinner is on the December 5 agenda as a referral to the Parks, Recreation and Waterfront Commission.  

Carol Marasovic reported that the Commission on Status of Women had to meet outside as the North Berkeley Senior Center was closed and Peter Radu did not have the authority to direct staff to open the building for the scheduled meeting.  

Last, I did receive the 2023 bicycle count performed by Bryce Nesbitt and volunteers. The bicycle counts were done midweek in the fall from 4 pm to 6 pm to duplicate the conditions from four previous bicycle counts in 2010, 2015, 2018, 2022 performed by the City.  

I have been in a string of emails regarding the bicycle counts and bicycle riding. Here are some of the thoughtful responses and points to consider for further research.  

The decline of bicycle riding as documented by the bicycle counts matches observations by bicycle riders in the email string, my own observations and other studies.  

There is nothing from current observations and counts that supports Rigel Robinson’s glorious declarations in his Berkeleyside op-ed that automobile traffic is on the decline and bicycle riding is increasing or that Berkeley is fourth in the nation in bicycle riders. https://www.berkeleyside.org/2019/12/17/opinion-the-future-of-telegraph-avenue-is-a-shared-street  

Fourth in the nation was 2014. Berkeley did better in the number of bicycle riders in 2015 than 2023. The bicycle plan was approved in 2017.  

UC Berkeley student population increased from 35,833 in 2010 to 45,307 in 2022. The bicycle count at Bowditch and Channing (Southside near campus) in 2010 was 305. In 2023 it was 181. The 2023 count also included scooters 160 and pedestrians 600.  

For the intersection of Channing, a designated bicycle boulevard, and Milvia, with a protected bike lane, the count in 2010 was 510 and in 2023 was 450. Milvia and Hearst did increase from 402 in 2010 to 443 in 2023.  

What was notable is that lots of people walk and scooters are increasingly popular. One person wrote, “What’s going on? Shouldn’t we try to find out? If Berkeley had a 10-year plan to build new tennis courts, but the world had switched to pickle-ball wouldn’t we want to change the plan?  

After the presentation of the bicycle count to the Transportation and Infrastructure Commission, the majority response was to make excuses and move on without a deeper look, which strikes me as a “don’t confuse me with the facts when I have already made up my mind.”  

The bottom line is there does need to be a deep look into why bicycle riding is declining and going in the opposite direction of the City’s plan. And any street that is being considered as a bicycle street without protective bicycle lane curbing or a street with protected bicycle lanes needs to have multiple bicycle and traffic counts before embarking re-engineering planning and after any modifications or improvements.  

The Telraam sensor that I wrote about in the November 19 Activist’s Diary looks like a great way to collect what modes of transportation people are actually using and how that may or may not change with street modifications and improvements. Bryce Nesbitt noted in his presentation of the bicycle counts to the Transportation and Infrastructure Commission documentation of vehicle traffic speeding up after repaving. Telraam continuously monitors motorized vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians and more according to the company website. 

https://telraam.net/en/what-is-telraam  

There is a $900,000 budget referral on the December 5 city council agenda from Harrison co-sponsored by Taplin to calm traffic with $100,000 of it designated in the vicinity of Derby.  

Will preconceived notions dominate the response to the child struck by a hit-and-run driver on Halloween after sunset (6:11 pm) around 6:25 pm? According, to the Berkeley Scanner, the child ran out into the street between two parked cars on Derby near Mabel. The car sped away westward on Derby. https://tinyurl.com/56p2ynxh  

Mabel is not a through street. The intersection at Mabel and Derby diverts southbound traffic on Mabel onto Derby in a westerly direction, which might indicate that the traffic diversion contributed to the accident. There is no marked crosswalk at this intersection that I saw when I walked around the area.  

As I looked for traffic and crossed at the corner, I tried to reimagine the incident from reading the Berkeley Scanner report and listening to the story the child’s mother told to the Facilities, Infrastructure, Transportation, Environment and Sustainability Committee (FITES).  

We’ll never know the full story as the driver sped off. But what we do know is bad things can happen quickly when we’re in a hurry, not paying attention and not thinking safety first.  

 

 

 

Elections are now taking place for the Executive Committees of the Sierra Club’s Bay Chapter and Northern Alameda County Group. Ballots are due December 13.

This year the ballots for the Bay Chapter and Northern Alameda County Group Ex Coms includes a lot of Yimby-aligned candidates, who are not identified as such.

The Club’s endorsements of candidates for public office carry weight with voters who care about the environment, so who’s running its governing boards is critical.

A local Sierra Club controlled by Yimbys would endorse candidates for public office who push an aggressive pro-growth agenda at odds with the organization’s environmental legacy.

It’s too late to join the Club to vote in this election.

If you’re currently a paid-up Sierra Club member, please vote for the following candidates:

Bay Chapter Ex Com:

Chance Cutrano

Becky Evans

Kelly Hammargren

Martha Kreeger

Paul Seger



Northern Alameda County Group Ex Com:

Sophie Hahn

Kelly Hammargren

Melinda Howard-Herrarte

Andy Katz

Suffixing Our Online Domains

The World Wide Web is expanding its online domain-branding options beyond the familiar choices:.com, .org, .info, and .net.

Dreamhost offering new website suffixes including ".io, .inc, .cloud, .help, and .love."

How about .me, .ai, .inc, .etc, .spam, .yes and .nope?

Putting It All on the Line
Recently we replaced the old, sagging closeline in the backyard. At the time, didn't realize that this humdrum activity was putting our lives and health at risk. It was only after the new line was installed that I chanced to read the microscopic type on the product label. It contained the following warnings: "Cancer and reproductive harm: www/P65Warnings.ca.gov. Not recommended for use where personal safety or loss of property is involved. Knots decrease working loads by 50%. When a rope under tension is released or breaks, the rope and its attachments may snap back in unpredictable directions with great force, which could result in injury or death to persons in its path."

Other small-type-of-interest was the store's guarantee, which read: "If the Ace product, when used for its intended purpose, fails to give you complete satisfaction, return the item to the store where you purchased [it] for free replacement of the same or similar item." 

Question: Why would you want to exchange a failed product for a new one that's exactly the same? 

The People's Billboard
In addition to providing electricity to homes and businesses, wooden power poles serve another fundamental public function. They are a form of free media for folks looking to find lost pets, announce garage sales, and promote small businesses. They are also a great tool for publicizing musical events. (It doesn't always work: One of the recent event posters that caught my eye featured the large-font pronouncement "One Night Only!"—but failed to include either a date or a location.) 

In order for a band to stand out in the musical crowd, it helps to have a memorable name. Here are some of the band-names included in a single poster for the 2023 Rebels & Renegades Music Festival:
Turnpike Troubadors. Old Crow Medicine Show. Flatland Cavalry. The Devil Makes Three. The California Honeydrops. American Aquarium. Kurt Vile and the Violators. Reckless Kelly. Boy Named Banjo. The Holy Know-nothings. Mike and the Moonpies. Shakey Graves. The Infamous Stringbusters. 

Fashion Plates
Personalized license plate spotted around town: 

OHVANNA (a Vanna White fan?)
WANDARR (Wanderer. On a rec van)
MAPENZI ("Love" in Swahil)
BBJ4EVA (Baby Jay Forever?)
KIWIBRO (A fellow New Zealander?)
JAZZITN (Jazzy Teen?)
KTNINPT (Kitten Input?)
JAKLALA (Jack from LaLa Land?)
GRNWMBT (Green Wombat?)
MEROAR (Me Roar? On a Tesla)
MACRA (Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act?) 

Bumper Snickers
"Cats for Peace"
"Cake or Death"
"Music Is My Drug of Choice"
"Sometimes You Win. Sometimes You Learn"
"Minds Are Like Parachutes. They Only Function When Open"
"Every Time a Christian Defends Trump, an Angel Loses Its Lunch" 

Trump's Trips and Slips of the Lips
The Former Guy seems to be coming less coherent with every flagrant campaign appearance. Here's my favorite Trump Flub of the Week. The Ochre Orge goes off the mental rails as he rails against who-knows-what and then can't figure out how to get back on track. Direct transcript: 

"Colleges and universities will purge the anti-semitism and pro-turd … tis …ter … ah… what… what you doing? The terrorism is pro…." 

And Then There's Jokin' Joe
New questions were raised about President Biden’s mental state when, during a stop at a Colorado windmill factory, he came out with a "cringeworthy joke" about nuclear annihilation when he greeted a worker holding what appeared to be a small toolkit. In what the Washington Post called an "awkward attempt at humor," Biden "bizarrely blurted out" the bonkers observation: “My Marine carries that and has the code to blow up the world.” Joe also managed to refer to Donald Trump as a "congressman" and appeared to forget the names of the Chinese and South Korean leaders. 

A Hot GOP Topic: Scolding Schools
The Daily Kos recently reported that the "GOP's long-term plan to kill public schools in America might be succeeding." In evidence, Kos cited Florida Sen. Marco Rubio's claim that the state's public schools were little more than “a cesspool of Marxist indoctrination.” Meanwhile, Donald Trump chimed in with the charge that “public schools have been taken over by the radical left maniacs” and Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene described America's public schools as "taxpayer-funded indoctrination centers that need to end." 

The GOP critics offer two solutions: (1) vouchers to for-profit corporate-approved (or corporate-owned) schools and (2) home-schooling. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis stands ready to provide his state's home-schoolers with plenty of support. As The Daily Kos notes: "The following are legal items Florida will pay for if you want to homeschool…. Boogie board, Ping-pong table, Television, Florida theme park tickets. Trampoline. Kayak. Picnic table. Skateboard." 

No books or laptops? Sounds more like a shopping list for summer vacation. 

A Video from the Past from Robert Reich 

Former US Labor Secretary, recently retired UC professor, and current progressive agitator Robert Reich recently shared a video of a speech he gave "almost exactly 29 years ago that predicted Trumpism." As Reich now recollects: "I was tragically prescient." 

Reich's candor got him in trouble with his colleagues in the Clinton administration. As Reich recalls: "Speeches by Cabinet members were supposed to be approved in advance by the White House, but in this case I doubted the White House would approve my speech because it was so foreboding. So I sent to the White House a different speech — one that was anodyne and boring.The [actual] speech made headlines — and also made the White House furious." Check it out. 

 

A Video from the Past from Friends of the Earth 

Back in 1983, I was part of a team at Dave Brower[s Friends of the Earth (FOE) that created a PBS-screened documentary called "Cry of the Condor" that focused on efforts to save the iconic, feathered predator. 

A Friends of the Earth presentation, the film was also backed by the California Resources Agency and California Public Broadcasting Commission. The documentary was narrated by KPFA's Kris Welch. In addition to researching and writing the script, I provided the spoken intro ("this program is made possible by") required for all films broadcast by PBS. (Pleased to note I nailed the announcement in one take.) 

Unfortunately, when FOE shut its SF office, all the documents were sent to the Washington office and our copy of the condor doc went missing. 

A few weeks ago, to my plopdazed surprise, I discovered that a copy of "Cry of the Condor" had been posted on YouTube by the Retro Video Vault. So far, it's racked up a whopping 76 views. The video quality is far from perfect and the sound track is not well synchronized (a real problem when you've got flute music in the background). It's a ragged version, for sure, but the story is still compelling.

There is a formula that might just succeed in bringing about a two-state solution in Israel-Palestine. First, the current extreme right-wing coalition led by Bibi Netanyahu must be toppled. Benny Gantz of the National Unity Party may be the man to break out of the coalition, forcing a new election or possibly being asked to form a new coalition government with Israel Resilience Party and New Hope, plus the Palestinian citizens of Israel and their political parties. Second, perhaps in return for Hamas releasing some or all of the female soldiers held hostage in Gaza, a Gantz coalition should release from prison Marwan Barghouti, who is by far the most popular and highly respected Palestinian political figure, holding a huge lead in polls over both the PLO’s 88 year-old Mahmoud Abbas and Hamas’ Ismail Haniyeh. Barghouti, who has been likened to South Africa’s Nelson Mandela, has renounced political violence and advocates a two-state solution with Israel and Palestine living peacefully side-by-side.  

A Benny Gantz-led coalition government in Israel could begin negotiations with Marwan Barghouti over the terms for implementing a two-state solution. The sticking point, of course, would be Israel’s West Bank settlements, all of which are in violation of international law. A compromise would have to be made by both sides, with Israel agreeing to demolish some settlements and the Palestinians agreeing to allow some settlements to remain. The most extremist of the Israeli settlers might resort to violence against an Israeli government’s effort to demolish settlements. They have attacked Israel’s IDF units in the past over efforts to demolish or eliminate specific settlements or outposts. But a Gantz-led coalition government in Israel would have to deal quite firmly with the most extremist of the settlers. Finally, all the iinfrastructure of apartheid must be demolished, including restrictions of Palestinian travel and separate roads for Jews and Palestinians. Even the barrier wall might have to be demolished. Likewise, Israel’s 16-year blockade of Gaza would have to be eliminated, and Gaza could begin to rebuild with help from other Arab countries and the United Nations.

In my past, within the last fifteen years it seems, I have functioned largely by strong impulses. Some of the impulses were problematic. There is the impulse where I think I need a cigarette; this is substance abuse. There is the impulse of fear that leads to inaccurate and illusory thinking, in turn leading to badly chosen actions. There is the impulse in which I thought I had to get out of a situation because it was too much. I didn't have much room in my head space and body space to just "be". 

But what if it is okay just to sit somewhere and not need anything? 

I did have the quality of being self-possessed in my past. I could be in a place, I could be calm, I could be quiet, and I did not need to be or do anything. That got lost along the way. In some instances, I believed I needed or was entitled to something more. In other instances, people came into my life who decided it was their job to screw with me and with my mind. I ended up as a man who could never quite be at ease unless I was getting something, doing something, or avoiding something. 

The functioning and organization of my mind and body had become damaged or wrongly constructed. The cause dates back a while. I lived with my wife at an apartment building in which fellow tenants were criminals. Not just one tenant, but most of them. They forced me and my wife to leave on the basis they wanted a clear field to carry out their criminal activities. They had methods of messing with me. 

I got into a better living situation in following years. But I could not get back to square one. I was still dealing with the demands of other people. My marriage (and I'm still married but physically separated) was not abusive, but still, there were demands, and there were enough demands on me that I lacked enough personal space. 

Then I moved here--senior and disabled housing in which I'm alone in a studio apartment. In the current housing, I can close and lock my door, and I can usually count on being left alone. This has advantages and disadvantages. Yet, it has given me enough time unharried that my mind is starting to revert to how I was years back, a simple and calm state. 

There are not many expectations in this housing. When I have only me to deal with, I can get along with myself. I need to go out of my room when I want to see other human beings or carry out necessary items. Since there is a no indoor smoking rule, I'm motivated to quit that filthy habit rather than going outside at all hours and creating problems. I'm remembering how it was with me before I smoked, thirty-five years ago. 

When I am self-possessed, I have control over most of my actions; I do not have uncontrollable impulses. When I am self-possessed, people may perceive a "quiet, gentle presence." When I am self-possessed, I have my wits about me. 

Sometimes in order to be self-possessed it entails taking a pill. If I suffer from an extreme panic attack, a pill might deal with that by knocking out the fear state, and this is regardless of the origin of the fear. I could be frightened of something real--or imagined. The pill does not make distinctions. 

Ordinarily such a pill is not required. Yet my body at times generates a paralyzing afraid state in response to an event I can't deal with. And it could even be a "good" event. 

Ordinarily, medication is here to keep my thinking reality-based through how it works. It works by forcing the mind to prioritize surroundings above and beyond thoughts and other internally generated stimuli. When that happens, I'm thrust into the immediate environment, and I can interpret and pay attention to what people are saying and doing. 

Being self-possessed does not mean you are perfect. Lack of self-possession can be caused by many things. I recently experienced five things going wrong, and it led my mind to personalize and create paranoia and hopelessness. When one of those five things became resolved, and following a pill and a good night's sleep, I came back to self-possession. 

Being hooked on cigarettes may block self-possession. The addiction can be so bad that a person will look in their ash tray for a partly smoked butt that's long enough to light up again. That's not self-possession. 

Being in a jealous rage with your girlfriend is not self-possession. It means that your mind is functioning at a rudimentary level, and you are not close to your better awareness. 

You can be physically restless from antipsychotics and can still mentally self-possessed. When you are mentally desperate and can't calm down, that's not being self-possessed. 

You should not attach a judgment to any of this. The absence of self-possession can come about through a series of bad events including people not letting you alone, getting in your face, and not letting up long enough for you to gather your wits. 

Not having anything to eat will interfere with your mind. Being too cold or too hot can interfere with self-possession. The human mind is affected by what we feel in our bodies. That's just how it is. Trying to separate the mind from the body is a bad mistake. 

I leave off with the realization and the admission that I have farther to go. Self-possession can be supported by medication, and it is still self-possession. But I have to work on it some more. 

 

---

 

Jack Bragen is a writer who lives in Martinez, California.

b Worth Noting:

The Rent Board is meeting the hybrid format on Monday, December 4, 2023 at 6 pm in the BUSD Boardroom and will vote on agenda item 6.b. a ceasefire resolution.



There are only two (December 5th and 12th) more scheduled City Council regular 6 pm meetings and one special meeting at 3 pm on December 12th before Winter Recess (December 13, 2023 – January 15, 2024). The agendas for all three meetings are posted at the bottom of this email. The 3 pm special meeting is on the North Berkeley BART Station Housing Objective Standards.

The goto meeting is City Council on Tuesday. Attending by ZOOM is the best choice. In response to demonstrators, Council left the board room for a conference room at the last two meetings. Zoom participants were able to watch and comment. Demonstrators and attendees in the board room were locked out.

• Monday:
  • At 10 am the Land Use Committee meets in the hybrid format.
  • At 6 pm the Rent is holding a special meeting in the hybrid format with a call for an immediate ceasefire in Palestine and Israel on the agenda.
  • At 7 pm the Personnel Board in person.
• Tuesday:
  • At 9:30 am the Budget Committee meets in the hybrid format on AAO
  • At 6 pm the City Council meets in the hybrid format item A. Deconstruction and Construction regulations, item 12. $900,000 on street calming budget referral and item 13. report on reimaging public safety.
  • At 7 pm the Rent Stabilization Board meets in closed session.

• Wednesday:
  • At 5:30 pm the Planning Commission meets in person on the demolition ordinance.
  • At 6 pm the Civic Arts Commission meets in person.
  • At 6:30 pm the Police Accountability Board meets in the Hybrid format.
  • At 7 pm the Disaster and Fire Safety Commission meets in person
• Thursday:
  • At 7 pm the Landmarks Preservation Commission meets in person.
  • At 1 pm WETA meets in the hybrid format.
• Friday:
  • From 6 – 9 pm there is a dance for teens, pre-registration is required.
  • From 8 – 10 pm there is a city sponsored comedy show tickets $20.
• Saturday:
  • From 10 am – 1 pm on winter weather preparedness, sandbags, storm drains.
  • Berkeley Neighborhoods Council meets the 2nd Saturday of the month, check later.

Survey of adults 55 and older from the County of Alameda Area Agency on Aging to plan county services to assist older adults to age in place. https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/CABERKE/bulletins/37d724c

Free Yoga Classes every Tuesday and Wednesday from 4:30 – 5:30 pm at the West Berkeley Family Wellness Center, 1900 Sixth Street, Register by phone 510-981-5350.

Check the City website for city activities, late announcements and meetings posted on short notice at: https://berkeleyca.gov/



+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++



BERKELEY PUBLIC MEETINGS AND CIVIC EVENTS 

 

Sunday, December 3, 2023 – no city meetings or vents found 

 

Monday, December 4, 2023 

 

LAND USE, HOUSING & ECONOMIC at 10 am 

Hybrid Meeting 

In-Person: at 2180 Milvia, 6th Floor – Redwood Room 

Videoconference: https://cityofberkeley-info.zoomgov.com/j/1604312346 

Teleconference: 1-669-254-5252 or 1-833-568-8864 (Toll Free)  

Meeting ID: 160 431 2346 

AGENDA: 2. Neighborhood-Scale Commercial, refer to city manager and Planning Commission to consider policies to permit neighborhood-scale retail uses in residential neighborhoods. 

https://berkeleyca.gov/your-government/city-council/council-committees/policy-committee-land-use-housing-economic-development 

 

RENT STABILIZATION BOARD Special Meeting at 6 pm 

A Hybrid Meeting 

In-Person: at 1231 Addison St. in the School District Board Room 

Videoconference: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89093764549?pwd=YJ5MBrEiHbEES6TWFbG0Zzx2Shb3nw.80d2HZZ0p8BYbrh4 

Teleconference: 1-669-900-6833 

Meeting ID: 890 9376 4549 Passcode: 459707 

AGENDA: 4. Public Comment ONLY ON AGENDA items, 5. Special Presentation on the nexus between the Board’s work and the conflict in Gaza, 6. Action Items: a. Contract $15,000 with ARCO Services Core for temporary staff to assist with administrative tasks related to processing eviction notices, b. Recommendation to adopt Resolution 23-30 calling for an immediate ceasefire in Palestine and Israel, c. Recommendation to adopt Resolution 23-31 invoking Regulation 1017 to allow landlords to provide temporary, below-market rental housing in Berkeley for Palestinian, Israeli and Ukrainian refugees fleeing conflict. 

https://rentboard.berkeleyca.gov/elected-rent-board/rent-board-meetings 

 

PERSONNEL BOARD at 7 pm 

In-Person: at 1301 Shattuck, Live Oak Park Community Center, Creekside Room 

AGENDA: V. Adjustment to City Attorney Salary Range and Revised Salary, VI. Recommendation to Revise Job Class Specification – Parking services Manager 

https://berkeleyca.gov/your-government/boards-commissions/personnel-board 

 

Tuesday, December 5, 2023 

 

BUDGET & FINANCE COMMITTEE at 9:30 am 

Hybrid Meeting 

In-Person: at 2180 Milvia, 6th Floor – Redwood Room 

Videoconference: https://cityofberkeley-info.zoomgov.com/j/1607680921 

Teleconference: 1-669-254-5252 or 1-833-568-8864 (Toll Free)  

Meeting ID: 160 768 0921 

AGENDA: 2. Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Appropriations Ordinance#1 (AAO), 3. Audit Recommendations Berkeley Police Department to manage overtime and security work for outside entities. 

https://berkeleyca.gov/your-government/city-council/council-committees/policy-committee-budget-finance 

 

CITY COUNCIL at 6 pm 

A Hybrid Meeting 

In-Person: at 1231 Addison St. in the School District Board Room 

Videoconference: https://cityofberkeley-info.zoomgov.com/j/1612629119 

Teleconference: 1-669-254-5252 or 1-833-568-8864 (toll free)  

Meeting ID: 161 262 9119 

AGENDA: Use the link and choose the html option or see the agenda listed at the end of the calendar. 

https://berkeleyca.gov/your-government/city-council/city-council-agendas 

 

RENT STABILIZATION BOARD Special Meeting Closed Session at 7 pm 

A Hybrid Meeting 

In-Person: at 2001 Center Street, 2nd Floor, Rent Board Law Library 

Videoconference: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82768438800?pwd=_aqrWzCBLNOq0fEvfCFjaFj_whFYRw.mFV3xuQbxvLfqjxW 

Teleconference: 1-408-638-0968 

Meeting ID: 827 6843 8800 Passcode: 452308 

AGENDA: 5. Closed session Public Employee Evaluation 

https://rentboard.berkeleyca.gov/elected-rent-board/rent-board-meetings 

 

Wednesday, December 6, 2023  

 

CIVIC ARTS COMMISSION at 6 pm 

In-Person: at 1901 Russell 

AGENDA: 5. Chair’s Report – a) Budget Referral of $300,000 for Capital Projects Grants in AAO#1, 6. Presentation, Discussion & Action Items: a) Action - City of Berkeley Poet Laureate 2024-2025 Hilary Amnah, b) Presentation – 2023/2024 Municipal Artist-in-Residence for City of Berkeley’s San Pablo Area Specific Plan, c) Action: Cube Space Exhibit, d) FY2023 Individual Artist Project Grants Guidelines, e) FY 2025 Community Festivals Grant Guidelines, f) FY 2025 Arts Program Grant Guidelines, g) 2024-2025 Grant Review Panelists, h) letter of support for Capital Projects Grants. 

https://berkeleyca.gov/your-government/boards-commissions/civic-arts-commission 

 

DISASTER and FIRE SAFETY COMMISSIONS at 7 pm 

In-Person: at 997 Cedar, Fire Department Division of Training Classroom 

AGENDA: 1. Chair’s Report, 2. Fire Department Report, Action Items: 4. Meeting schedule, 5. Provide recommendation to Council regarding separation of mixed-use pedestrian and e-bike pathways, 6. Request to merge action and discussion calendars under the title “Items for Discussion and Possible Action”, 7. Send a report to City Council recommending using Measure FF funds to support a Once-Time Clearing of eucalyptus understory for participating properties, Discussion Items: 8. Measure FF Funds, 9. New Commissioner Work Plan, 10. Clarification of recently approved ordinance on ADUs and JADUs, 12. Impact of increased density to new developments on Shattuck/Adeline. 

https://berkeleyca.gov/your-government/boards-commissions/disaster-and-fire-safety-commission 

 

PLANNING COMMISSION at 5:30 pm 

In-Person: at 1901 Hearst, North Berkeley Senior Center 

AGENDA: 10. Public hearing: Demolition Ordinance – this is about replacing rent controlled and/or affordable units lot through demolition 

https://berkeleyca.gov/your-government/boards-commissions/planning-commission 

 

POLICE ACCOUNTABILITY BOARD at 6:30 pm 

A Hybrid Meeting 

In-Person: at 1901 Hearst, North Berkeley Senior Center 

Videoconference: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82653396072 

Teleconference: 1-669-900-6833 (toll free)  

Meeting ID: 826 5339 6072 

AGENDA: Agenda not posted check later 

https://berkeleyca.gov/your-government/boards-commissions/police-accountability-board 

 

Thursday, December 7, 2023 

 

LANDMARKS PRESERVATION COMMISSION at 7 pm 

In-Person: at 1901 Hearst, North Berkeley Senior Center 

AGENDA: 6. 2065 Kittredge – Final Design Review (#DRCF2023-0002) for the Shattuck Hotel Site, 7. 2144 Shattuck – structural alteration permit (#LMSAP2023-0007) American Trust Building, 

8. 2037 Durant – Demolition Referral (Use Permit #ZP2023-0064) 

https://berkeleyca.gov/your-government/boards-commissions/landmarks-preservation-commission 

 

WATER EMERGENCY TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (WETA/SF Bay Ferry) at 1 pm 

A Hybrid Meeting 

In-Person: at Port of San Francisco Pier 1 

Videoconference: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89718217408 

Teleconference: 1-669-900-6833 (toll free)  

Meeting ID: 897 1821 7408 Password: 33779 

AGENDA: 5. Reports of Staff a. Executive Director’s Report on FTA Grant Award, International Electric Ferry Innovations, Main Street Terminal Rehab Project Update, b. Financial statements, c. Federal Legislative Uptake, D. State Legislation Update, e. Monthly Operations Ridership and Recovery Report. 

https://weta.sanfranciscobayferry.com/next-board-meeting 

 

Friday, December 8, 2023  

 

TEENS HOLIDAY JINGLE DANCE SWAG from 6 – 9 pm 

Pre-registration Required – No Onsite Registration 

Only current Longfellow, Willard or King students may attend and must bring student ID or class schedule 

Location: 2800 Park, Frances Albrier Center 

https://berkeleyca.gov/community-recreation/events/teens-holiday-jingle-dance-swag 

 

LIVE OAK LAUGHS STAND-UP COMEDY doors open 7:30 pm, show from 8 – 10 pm 

In-Person: at Live Oak Park Community Center  

Cost $10 for ages 18 and up 

Refreshments and onsite childcare for 5 – 13 available for additional cost 

Registration recommended 

https://berkeleyca.gov/community-recreation/news/come-out-december-8-night-local-stand-comedy 

 

Saturday, December 9, 2023  

 

HELLO WINTER WEATHER! PREPAREDNESS WORKSHOP AT STRAWBERRY CREEK PARK from 10 am – 1 pm 

Location: 1326 Allston Way, Strawberry Creek Park 

AGENDA: Short talk followed with demonstrations, Adopt a storm drain, learn how to fill and place sandbags to protect your home. 

https://berkeleyca.gov/community-recreation/events/hello-winter-weather-preparedness-workshop-strawberry-creek-park 

 

BERKELEY NEIGHBORHOODS COUNCIL at 10 am 

Videoconference:  

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/4223188307?pwd=dFlNMVlVZ2d6b0FnSHh3ZlFwV2NMdz09 

Teleconference: 1-669-444-9171 Meeting ID: 422 318 8307 Passcode: 521161 

AGENDA: Check closer to Saturday to confirm BNC is meeting and to check the agenda. 

https://berkeleyneighborhoodscouncil.com/ 

 

Sunday, December 10, 2023 – no city meetings or events found 

 

++++++++++++++++++++ DECEMBER 5, 2023 CITY COUNCIL ++++++++++++ 

 

AGENDA for DECEMBER 5, 2023 CITY COUNCIL Regular meeting at 6 pm 

A Hybrid Meeting 

In-Person: at 1231 Addison St. in the School District Board Room 

Videoconference: https://cityofberkeley-info.zoomgov.com/j/1612629119 

Teleconference: 1-669-254-5252 or 1-833-568-8864 (toll free)  

Meeting ID: 161 262 9119 

https://berkeleyca.gov/your-government/city-council/city-council-agendas 

 

AGENDA on CONSENT: 

1. Oyekanmi, Finance – Formal Bid Solicitations $600,000 for sanitary sewer rehabilitation project
2. Oyekanmi, Finance – Amend Contract No. 32000060 add $210,000 plus 2-year extension $400,000 total $1,438,170 with Toshiba for Multi-function Devices through 2025
3. Sprague, Fire – Piggyback on Contract No. 10089896-22-W for $272,029 through 12/18/2023 - 9/30/2028 with Intterra for Operations, Pre-Planning, Reporting and Analytics with option to extend for 5 additional years at additional cost not to exceed $300,000
4. Kouyoumdjian, HR - MOU with Berkeley Fire Fighters Association
5. Fong, IT – Amend Contract 32000281 add $825,811 total $1,718,633 with ConvergeOne for Avaya Telephone System Administration Maintenance and Support 7/1/2020 – 6/30/2025
6. Fong, IT – Amend Contract No, 32000008 (1102) add $115,300 total $322,946 with Granicus, Inc for live video streaming services, for on-demand archival video, podcasting, and web page subscription services 7/1/2017 – 6/30/2025
7. Ferris, Parks – Grant Contract accept $750,000 from Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the MLK Youth Services Center Seismic Upgrade Project
8. Ferris, Parks – Accept cash donation of $5,000 from Friends of the Berkeley Rose Garden to purchase roses and maintenance yard fence screening for Berkeley Rose Garden

Council Consent Items: 

9. Arreguin – 13th Annual Martin Luther King Jr Celebration
10. Taplin, co-sponsor – Nancy Skinner Municipal Pier Resolution, Refer to Parks, Recreation and Waterfront Commission
11. Harrison – Budget Referral $273,342 to the November 2023 AAO #1 to Pre-fund the Resilient (Green) Buildings Program Manager on Permanent Basis

AGENDA on ACTION: 

1. Harrison – Refer to City Manager to Enhance the City’s Deconstruction and Construction Materials Management Enforcement and Regulations and Refer to AAO#1 Budget Process $250,000 for Social Cost of Carbon Nexus Fee Study for Berkeley Origin Construction and Demolition Debris

12. Harrison, co-sponsor Taplin – Budget Referral: Allocate the existing $900,000 Transportation Network Company (TNC) Tax to Calm Traffic in Vicinity of Derby St, Increase Citywide Traffic Calming Budget and Establish Ongoing General Fund Allocation Policy for TNC 1. $100,000 calming measures in the vicinity of 2023 Halloween Derby St. hit and run incident highlighting designation of crosswalks, and consideration of a stop sign on Mabel at Carleton and Derby, 2. $25,000 to purchase 5 additional portable speed radar trailers total 7, 3. Increase traffic Calming budget to $400,000, 4. $450,000 to 2017 bicycle lanes.
13. Arredondo, CM Office - Reimagining Public Safety Status Report

 

++++++++++++++++ City Council DECEMBER 12, 2023 ++++++++++++++++ 

 

AGENDA for DECEMBER 12, 2023 CITY COUNCIL Special Meeting at 3 pm 

A Hybrid Meeting 

In-Person: at 1231 Addison St. in the School District Board Room 

Videoconference: https://cityofberkeley-info.zoomgov.com/j/1610996492 

Teleconference: 1-669-254-5252 or 1-833-568-8864 (toll free)  

Meeting ID: 161 099 6492 

AGENDA: one item 1. North Berkeley Objective Design Standards 

https://berkeleyca.gov/your-government/city-council/city-council-agendas 

 

AGENDA for DECEMBER 12, 2023 CITY COUNCIL Regular Meeting at 6 pm 

A Hybrid Meeting 

In-Person: at 1231 Addison St. in the School District Board Room 

Videoconference: https://cityofberkeley-info.zoomgov.com/j/1610996492 

Teleconference: 1-669-254-5252 or 1-833-568-8864 (toll free)  

Meeting ID: 161 099 6492 

https://berkeleyca.gov/your-government/city-council/city-council-agendas 

 

AGENDA on CONSENT: 

1. Harvey – 2nd reading Amendments to Berkeley Election Reform Act (BERA) cost of living adjustment and reporting requirement thresholds
2. Klein, Planning – 2nd reading Southside Zoning Implementation Program and 2023-2031 Housing Element Update
3. Warhuus, HHCS – 2nd reading Authorizing Lease of 830 University to Berkeley Free Clinic
4. Minutes for approval 10/23/2023, 11/6/2023, 11/7/2023, 11/13/2023, 11/14/2023, 11/21/2023 and 11/28/2023
5. Oyekanmi, Finance – Formal Bid Solicitations $150,000 for Willard Clubhouse Public Art
6. Warhuus, HHCS – Extend the Duration of Funding Reservations for Housing Trust Fund Projects Measure O Funds Ashby Lofts at 2909-2919 Ninth $850,000, BUSD Workforce Housing at 1701 San Pablo $24,500,000, Peoples Park at 2556 Haste $14,359,593
7. Kouyoumdjian, HR – Revise Clasification and Salary Ranges for Parking Meter Maintenance and Collection Supervisor and Traffic Maintenance Supervisor
8. Contract $283,500 With Superion, LLC for AS400 Software Mainenance and Support 7/1/2023 – 6/30/2025
9. Ferris, Parks – Grant Application $700,000 – State Parks Outdoor Equity Grants Program up to $700,000
10. Ferris, Parks – Grant Application $218,451 - CA Air Resources Board for new electric boat and charging station
11. Ferris, Park - Contract $6,831,067 which includes 10% contingency $621,006 with Buhler for Willard Park Clubhouse and Restroom Replacement Project
12. Ferris, Park – Donation $3,400 Memorial Bench at Cesar Chavez Park in memory of Ronald Henry Klein
13. Ferris, Park – Donation $3,400 Memorial Bench at Cesar Chavez Park in memory of Ramakant Tulisan
14. Bellow, Public Works – Contract $3,456,596 includes 10% contingency $314,236 Specification No. 24-11619-C: Kolos Engineering, Inc. for The Alameda, et al. Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation Project
15. Bellow, Public Works – Purchase Order $8,500,00 with Pinnacle Petroleum, Inc. and $2,000,000 Western States, Inc. for Bulk Renewable Diesel and Gasoline for City Vehicles 2025 – 2029
16. Bellow, Public Works - Purchase Order $1,600,000 with National Auto Fleet Group for 4 Tractor Trucks
17. Bellow, Public Works – Purchase Order $284,974 with Braun Network, Inc for 1 North Start 155 Type 1 Ambulance
18. Bellow, Public Works – Amend Contract No. 102354-1add $200,000 total $832,750 with Direct Line Tele Response for Citywide After-Hours Answering Service
19. Bellow, Public Works – Amend Contract No. 32300110 add $150,000 total $300,000 with SCI Consulting for On-call Civil Engineering Services
20. Bellow, Public Works – Amend Contract No. 32400004 add $200,000 total $250,000 with Roofing Constructors, Inc. dba Western Roofing Service on on0call roofing and gutter repair services
21. Bellow, Public Works – Amend Contract No. 103266-1 add $100,000 total $450,000 with Karste Consulting, Inc for Emergency Preparedness Services and Training
22. Bellow, Public Works – Contract $443,207 with American Restore for Transfer Station Tipping Floor Repair Emergency Project at 1201 Second Street due to hazardous conditions authorizing exception to formal bidding process
23. Miller for Parks and Waterfront Commission – Request for Community Survey for placing a modest increase in Parks Tax on November 2024 Ballot
24. Wong, Auditor – Audit on Ballot Measure FF funds, recommend report back every 6 months

Council Consent Items: 

25. Arreguin – Reappointment of Dr. P. Robert Beatty to the Alameda County Mosquito Abatement District Board of Trustees for a 2 year term
26. Arreguin, co-sponsor Wengraf, Hahn – Right to Reproductive Freedom
27. Arreguin – Adjustment to City Attorney Salary Range (top $360,000 annually) and Revised SalaryCity Attorney Farimah Brown to $336,000
28. Taplin, co-sponsor Hahn, Harrison – Waterside Workshops Winter Festival and Kids Bike Giveaway
29. Taplin, co-sponsor Bartlett, Harrison – Budget Referral and Updated Guidelines and Procedures for City Council Office Staff Expenditures
30. Wengraf, co-sponsors Arreguin, Hahn– Letter to AC Transit Regarding Draft Realignment Scenarios (plan to end Grizzly Peak route)

AGENDA on ACTION: 

31. Hollander, OED – Expansion of Elmwood Business Improvement District
32. Friedrichsen, Budget Manager – Annual Appropriations Ordinance $258,777,491 (gross) $246,555,990(net)
33. Cardwell, CM Office – Consideration of Options for BHS Staff Parking

INFORMATION REPORTS: 

34. Brown, City Attorney – Settlement Claim of D.L. Falk Construction North Berkeley Senior Center
35. Oyekanmi, Finance –FY 2023 4th Quarter Investment Report
36. Oyekanmi, Finance –Section 115 Trust Investment Report for: Inception to Period Ended 6/30/2023
37. Klein, Planning – Climate Action Plan and Resilience Update
38. Lovvorn, Commission Secretary – Civic Arts Commission Work Plan FY 2024
39. Uberti, Commission Secretary – Housing Advisory Commission Work Plan FY 2024

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 

 

LAND USE CALENDAR PUBLIC HEARINGS: 

• 2924 Russell 2/27/2024
• 1960 San Antonio 645 Arlington Avenue 2/13/2024
• 3000 Shattuck Avenue (Construct 10-story mixed-use building) – TBD

WORK SESSIONS & SPECIAL MEETINGS: 

• December 5, 2023 – Re-Imagining Public Safety Update and Ceasefire– (to be the only action item of the evening, Wengraf and Arreguin will be absent on December 5)
• January 23, 2024 - Draft Waterfront Specific Plan (tentative – rescheduled from November 2, 2023)
• February 6, 2024 – Office of Economic Development (OED) Dashboards Presentation

UNSCHEDULED WORK SESSIONS & SPECIAL MEETINGS 

• Fire Department Standards of Coverage & Community Risk Assessment
• Dispatch Needs Assessment Presentation
• Presentation on Homelessness/Re-Housing/Thousand-Person Plan

PAST MEETINGS with reports worth reading: 

• May 16 - Fire Facilities Study Report, Wildfire Prevention Plan https://berkeleyca.gov/city-council-special-meeting-eagenda-may-16-2023-6-pm
• June 20 (WS) - Climate Action Plan & Resilience Update, Berkeley Economic Dashboards Update reports available https://berkeleyca.gov/your-government/city-council/city-council-agendas/city-council-2023-06-20

. 

* * * * * 

 

Kelly Hammargren’s summary on what happened the preceding week is posted on the What Happened page at: https://www.sustainableberkeleycoalition.com/what-happened.html and in the Berkeley Daily Planet https://www.berkeleydailyplanet.com/ 

 

The Activist’s Calendar of meetings is posted on the What’s Ahead page at: https://www.sustainableberkeleycoalition.com/whats-ahead.html 

 

If you would like to receive the Activist’s Calendar as soon as it is completed send an email to: kellyhammargren@gmail.com.If you want to receive the Activist’s Diary send an email to kellyhammargren@gmail.com. If you wish to stop receiving the weekly calendar of city meetings please forward the email you received to- kellyhammargren@gmail.com -with the request to be removed from the email list. 

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