Sarah Wright

Mike Ege

Standing before the backdrop of the Mission Rock neighborhood development, Mayor London Breed emphasized San Francisco’s history of resilience and transformation in a State of the City Address focused on bringing the city back to life <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/where-have-all-the-tourists-gone-san-francisco-travel-industry-lags-in-post-pandemic-return/">after two long years of Covid</a>.

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Standing before the backdrop of the Mission Rock neighborhood development, Mayor London Breed emphasized San Francisco’s history of resilience and transformation in a State of the City Address focused on bringing the city back to life <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/where-have-all-the-tourists-gone-san-francisco-travel-industry-lags-in-post-pandemic-return/">after two long years of Covid</a>.

The active construction site served to underscore Breed’s assertion that San Francisco is a city on the rise—not in decline, as often alleged by conservatives on the national stage.

The active construction site served to underscore Breed’s assertion that San Francisco is a city on the rise—not in decline, as often alleged by conservatives on the national stage.

“This is not a story about commerce fleeing the city,” she said, alluding to all the “<a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/opinion/openforum/article/The-media-made-me-think-San-Francisco-would-be-an-16977607.php">noise</a>” made by national conservative media about the city’s problems. “This is a story about confidence.”

“This is not a story about commerce fleeing the city,” she said, alluding to all the “<a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/opinion/openforum/article/The-media-made-me-think-San-Francisco-would-be-an-16977607.php">noise</a>” made by national conservative media about the city’s problems. “This is a story about confidence.”

She also had a message for the city’s progressives who are down on her administration. She cited <a href="https://sfstandard.com/education/school-board-recall-successful/">the recent school board recall</a> as a warning that government needs to listen better to residents. “We have the tools to deliver both the basics and the big ideas.”

She also had a message for the city’s progressives who are down on her administration. She cited <a href="https://sfstandard.com/education/school-board-recall-successful/">the recent school board recall</a> as a warning that government needs to listen better to residents. “We have the tools to deliver both the basics and the big ideas.”

Mayor London Breed delivers the State of the City address above the hard hats of Anna Fung, Zakiya Willis, and Malisha Ngumezi, who are working on the development in the background. The women credit Breed and the 'union jobs' for 'changing their lives.' | Camille Cohen

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/stateofcity.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-41567"/><figcaption>Mayor London Breed delivers the State of the City address above the hard hats of Anna Fung, Zakiya Willis, and Malisha Ngumezi, who are working on the development in the background. The women credit Breed and the &#8216;union jobs&#8217; for &#8216;changing their lives.&#8217; | Camille Cohen</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/stateofcity.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-41567"/><figcaption>Mayor London Breed delivers the State of the City address above the hard hats of Anna Fung, Zakiya Willis, and Malisha Ngumezi, who are working on the development in the background. The women credit Breed and the 'union jobs' for 'changing their lives.' | Camille Cohen</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/stateofcity.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-41567"/><figcaption>Mayor London Breed delivers the State of the City address above the hard hats of Anna Fung, Zakiya Willis, and Malisha Ngumezi, who are working on the development in the background. The women credit Breed and the &#8216;union jobs&#8217; for &#8216;changing their lives.&#8217; | Camille Cohen</figcaption></figure>

Breed worked to strike a careful balance of defending the city’s police, while also touting the actions she has taken to dial back aggressive law-and-order policies.

Breed worked to strike a careful balance of defending the city’s police, while also touting the actions she has taken to dial back aggressive law-and-order policies.

“Right now, police staffing is at a crisis level,” she said, insisting that the San Francisco Police Department is not adequately staffed to do its job.

“Right now, police staffing is at a crisis level,” she said, insisting that the San Francisco Police Department is not adequately staffed to do its job.

“While we have more work to do, our police dept has embraced reforms,” Breed went on, emphasizing the introduction of alternatives to conventional policing—including the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/tenderloin-response-data/">Street Crisis Response Teams</a> and equity-focused policies, such as the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/mayor-breed-unveils-13-billion-budget-aimed-at-equitable-recovery/">Dream Keeper Initiative</a>, to address inequality and root causes of crime. She went on to say that reform and public safety are not mutually exclusive: “We can do it all and we don&#8217;t have to choose.”

“While we have more work to do, our police dept has embraced reforms,” Breed went on, emphasizing the introduction of alternatives to conventional policing—including the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/tenderloin-response-data/">Street Crisis Response Teams</a> and equity-focused policies, such as the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/mayor-breed-unveils-13-billion-budget-aimed-at-equitable-recovery/">Dream Keeper Initiative</a>, to address inequality and root causes of crime. She went on to say that reform and public safety are not mutually exclusive: “We can do it all and we don't have to choose.”

“While we have more work to do, our police dept has embraced reforms,” Breed went on, emphasizing the introduction of alternatives to conventional policing—including the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/tenderloin-response-data/">Street Crisis Response Teams</a> and equity-focused policies, such as the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/mayor-breed-unveils-13-billion-budget-aimed-at-equitable-recovery/">Dream Keeper Initiative</a>, to address inequality and root causes of crime. She went on to say that reform and public safety are not mutually exclusive: “We can do it all and we don&#8217;t have to choose.”

Breed also voiced support for Gov. Gavin Newsom’s controversial policy proposal, which would <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/politics-of-addiction-will-forced-treatment-work/">reform state laws regarding behavioral health conservatorship</a> of those suffering from substance abuse and mental illness. She framed her support within the context of other transformative responses to the city’s drug overdose crisis, such as drug sobering centers.

Breed also voiced support for Gov. Gavin Newsom’s controversial policy proposal, which would <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/politics-of-addiction-will-forced-treatment-work/">reform state laws regarding behavioral health conservatorship</a> of those suffering from substance abuse and mental illness. She framed her support within the context of other transformative responses to the city’s drug overdose crisis, such as drug sobering centers.

“It is not OK for people to remain on the streets when we have a place [for them] to go,” Breed said. “Some people won&#8217;t do what&#8217;s safe for themselves or others—we have to be honest—we need to make serious changes to state laws.”

“It is not OK for people to remain on the streets when we have a place [for them] to go,” Breed said. “Some people won't do what's safe for themselves or others—we have to be honest—we need to make serious changes to state laws.”

“It is not OK for people to remain on the streets when we have a place [for them] to go,” Breed said. “Some people won&#8217;t do what&#8217;s safe for themselves or others—we have to be honest—we need to make serious changes to state laws.”

Following the speech, District Attorney Chesa Boudin said he supported the mayor’s call for more state legislation to address mental health issues, including conservatorship.&nbsp;

Following the speech, District Attorney Chesa Boudin said he supported the mayor’s call for more state legislation to address mental health issues, including conservatorship.&nbsp;

“These are not local problems,” Boudin said. “They simply cannot be solved by one city piecemeal at a time.”

“These are not local problems,” Boudin said. “They simply cannot be solved by one city piecemeal at a time.”

Chief Bill Scott echoed Breed’s concerns about staffing at his department, saying recruitment of police officers has been a major challenge, but said he’s committed to staffing up despite deterrences like the dangers of the job.&nbsp;

Chief Bill Scott echoed Breed’s concerns about staffing at his department, saying recruitment of police officers has been a major challenge, but said he’s committed to staffing up despite deterrences like the dangers of the job.&nbsp;

“We want this department to be the type people want to work for,” Scott said in an interview after the speech.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We want this department to be the type people want to work for,” Scott said in an interview after the speech.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Breed did not deny that San Francisco faces real challenges. “We cannot sugarcoat it—we have work to do,” she said. “Recovery won&#8217;t be easy or quick.”&nbsp;

Breed did not deny that San Francisco faces real challenges. “We cannot sugarcoat it—we have work to do,” she said. “Recovery won't be easy or quick.”&nbsp;

Breed did not deny that San Francisco faces real challenges. “We cannot sugarcoat it—we have work to do,” she said. “Recovery won&#8217;t be easy or quick.”&nbsp;

Using the waterfront as a motif for opportunity, Breed lauded the city’s investments in new housing, while criticizing the Board of Supervisors for “obstructionism” against development. She voiced direct support for <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/yimby-takes-another-swing-at-housing-reform-with-new-ballot-initiative/">a new ballot measure</a> that would streamline approvals for certain affordable or teacher housing if it makes it on the November ballot. She also acknowledged that building housing is one thing, but <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/homelessness/more-than-800-homes-remain-unfilled-thousands-of-unhoused-sit-on-waitlist/">getting residents into it is another</a>.&nbsp;

Using the waterfront as a motif for opportunity, Breed lauded the city’s investments in new housing, while criticizing the Board of Supervisors for “obstructionism” against development. She voiced direct support for <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/yimby-takes-another-swing-at-housing-reform-with-new-ballot-initiative/">a new ballot measure</a> that would streamline approvals for certain affordable or teacher housing if it makes it on the November ballot. She also acknowledged that building housing is one thing, but <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/homelessness/more-than-800-homes-remain-unfilled-thousands-of-unhoused-sit-on-waitlist/">getting residents into it is another</a>.&nbsp;

“Now we must focus on doing the work to fill those homes faster,” Breed said.&nbsp;

“Now we must focus on doing the work to fill those homes faster,” Breed said.&nbsp;

Breed went on to say that making progress on housing and transportation infrastructure is central to hitting the city’s climate goals, which San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency Director Jeffrey Tumlin echoed in an interview after the speech.&nbsp;

Breed went on to say that making progress on housing and transportation infrastructure is central to hitting the city’s climate goals, which San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency Director Jeffrey Tumlin echoed in an interview after the speech.&nbsp;

“I have a primary responsibility of ensuring that San Francisco meets its emission reduction goals so that our city can be survivable in the face of climate change,” Tumlin said.&nbsp;

“I have a primary responsibility of ensuring that San Francisco meets its emission reduction goals so that our city can be survivable in the face of climate change,” Tumlin said.&nbsp;

Breed ended the speech by drawing direct contrasts between San Francisco and other cities—calling the city “loud and proud,” as it turns a new post-pandemic corner. With the city’s indoor mask mandate and vaccine mandates for businesses now lifted, she focused on a hopeful message of recovery.&nbsp;

Breed ended the speech by drawing direct contrasts between San Francisco and other cities—calling the city “loud and proud,” as it turns a new post-pandemic corner. With the city’s indoor mask mandate and vaccine mandates for businesses now lifted, she focused on a hopeful message of recovery.&nbsp;

“It’s time to open up our eyes; it&#8217;s time to open up our city; it’s time to enjoy our lives after everything we’ve experienced,” Breed said.

“It’s time to open up our eyes; it's time to open up our city; it’s time to enjoy our lives after everything we’ve experienced,” Breed said.

“It’s time to open up our eyes; it&#8217;s time to open up our city; it’s time to enjoy our lives after everything we’ve experienced,” Breed said.

Mayor Breed walks a tightrope on policing during annual State of the City

Christina Campodonico

After being closed for two years due to the pandemic, the SF Fire Museum—now called the First Responder Museum and Learning Center—reopened this week with a new name and a broader dedication to all first responders.&nbsp;

After being closed for two years due to the pandemic, the SF Fire Museum—now called the First Responder Museum and Learning Center—reopened this week with a new name and a broader dedication to all first responders.&nbsp;

Several city officials, including Mayor London Breed, San Francisco Fire Chief Jeanine Nicholson, Police Chief Bill Scott, District 2 Supervisor Catherine Stefani and Sheriff Paul Miyamoto were on hand to welcome the public back to the museum. Founded under the tenure of Fire Chief William F. Murray in 1964, it was created to honor firefighters and the history of the department, which dates back to the Gold Rush-era.&nbsp;

Several city officials, including Mayor London Breed, San Francisco Fire Chief Jeanine Nicholson, Police Chief Bill Scott, District 2 Supervisor Catherine Stefani and Sheriff Paul Miyamoto were on hand to welcome the public back to the museum. Founded under the tenure of Fire Chief William F. Murray in 1964, it was created to honor firefighters and the history of the department, which dates back to the Gold Rush-era.&nbsp;

The new mission of the museum and its steward, the nonprofit Guardians of the City, is “to preserve the heritage and history of San Francisco&#8217;s first responders,” which stretches back more than 170 years if you include the San Francisco police and sheriff&#8217;s office, said Guardians of the City President Jim Lee during a press conference on Wednesday.

The new mission of the museum and its steward, the nonprofit Guardians of the City, is “to preserve the heritage and history of San Francisco's first responders,” which stretches back more than 170 years if you include the San Francisco police and sheriff's office, said Guardians of the City President Jim Lee during a press conference on Wednesday.

The new mission of the museum and its steward, the nonprofit Guardians of the City, is “to preserve the heritage and history of San Francisco&#8217;s first responders,” which stretches back more than 170 years if you include the San Francisco police and sheriff&#8217;s office, said Guardians of the City President Jim Lee during a press conference on Wednesday.

Tucked into the side of Fire Station 10 in Laurel Heights, the tiny museum hosts numerous antique artifacts, vintage photos, retired equipment and memorabilia from the early days of firefighting in San Francisco—and now some newer items from the San Francisco Sheriff’s Office, police department and emergency medical services.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The museum <a href="https://guardiansofthecity.org/sffd/">is open</a> Thursdays through Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. and admission is free—although calling ahead to be sure it’s open and donations are encouraged. We talked with museum’s curator Jamie O’Keefe about the five most interesting things in the collection in case you decide to stop by.&nbsp;

Tucked into the side of Fire Station 10 in Laurel Heights, the tiny museum hosts numerous antique artifacts, vintage photos, retired equipment and memorabilia from the early days of firefighting in San Francisco—and now some newer items from the San Francisco Sheriff’s Office, police department and emergency medical services.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The museum <a href="https://guardiansofthecity.org/sffd/">is open</a> Thursdays through Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. and admission is free—although calling ahead to be sure it’s open and donations are encouraged. We talked with museum’s curator Jamie O’Keefe about the five most interesting things in the collection in case you decide to stop by.&nbsp;

Melted Pennies from San Francisco’s 1906 Earthquake-Fire

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading" id="h-melted-pennies-from-san-francisco-s-1906-earthquake-fire">Melted Pennies from San Francisco’s 1906 Earthquake-Fire</h2>

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<h2 class="has-medium-font-size" id="h-melted-pennies-from-san-francisco-s-1906-earthquake-fire">Melted Pennies from San Francisco’s 1906 Earthquake-Fire</h2>

“Indian Head” pennies fused by heat from San Francisco’s 1906 earthquake-fire. | Christina Campodonico&nbsp;

“Indian Head” pennies fused by heat from San Francisco’s 1906 earthquake-fire. | Christina Campodonico&nbsp;

The major temblor and subsequent conflagration shoo over 100 years ago, the First Responder Museum still receives surviving items from that infamous natural disaster. Among the more interesting artifacts from that event are pennies from the era “melted and fused together by the heat” of the fire, said O’Keefe.&nbsp;

The major temblor and subsequent conflagration shoo over 100 years ago, the First Responder Museum still receives surviving items from that infamous natural disaster. Among the more interesting artifacts from that event are pennies from the era “melted and fused together by the heat” of the fire, said O’Keefe.&nbsp;

One of San Francisco’s Oldest Fire Engines

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading">One of San Francisco’s Oldest Fire Engines</h2>

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size">One of San Francisco’s Oldest Fire Engines</h2>

The reopened First Responder Museum houses one of the first fire engines to serve in SF. | Christina Campodonico&nbsp;

The reopened First Responder Museum houses one of the first fire engines to serve in SF. | Christina Campodonico&nbsp;

Made in New York in 1810, this fire engine is one of the first three fire engines ever used in San Francisco and was put to good use as soon as it arrived, according to O’Keefe.&nbsp;

Made in New York in 1810, this fire engine is one of the first three fire engines ever used in San Francisco and was put to good use as soon as it arrived, according to O’Keefe.&nbsp;

“While it was on the dock in San Francisco, ready to go to the gold mines, a fire broke out in the city. Somebody remembered that this was on the dock and they said, ‘Hey, let&#8217;s grab that piece of fire equipment and put it into service.’ And they did,” said O’Keefe.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“While it was on the dock in San Francisco, ready to go to the gold mines, a fire broke out in the city. Somebody remembered that this was on the dock and they said, ‘Hey, let's grab that piece of fire equipment and put it into service.’ And they did,” said O’Keefe.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“While it was on the dock in San Francisco, ready to go to the gold mines, a fire broke out in the city. Somebody remembered that this was on the dock and they said, ‘Hey, let&#8217;s grab that piece of fire equipment and put it into service.’ And they did,” said O’Keefe.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The fire engine was restored to its original blue and yellow hues in 1978.&nbsp;

The fire engine was restored to its original blue and yellow hues in 1978.&nbsp;

The First Fire Engine Made in California&nbsp;

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading">The First Fire Engine Made in California&nbsp;</h2>

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size">The First Fire Engine Made in California&nbsp;</h2>

“Old Broderick” as this fire engine is known was the first built in California. | Christina Campodonico&nbsp;

“Old Broderick” as this fire engine is known was the first built in California. | Christina Campodonico&nbsp;

Known as “Old Broderick” or “<a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/nativeson/article/160-years-later-S-F-s-1st-fire-engine-returns-6563931.php?t=7234df669f7df979bf&amp;cmpid=email-premium">The Fire Eater</a>,” the 170-plus-year-old fire engine was built and designed by William E. Worth in what we now know as the Financial District in 1850. Until that point, all local fire engines had been built in New York or Philadelphia and brought around “the Horn” by boat, according to the engine’s accompanying placard.

Known as “Old Broderick” or “<a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/nativeson/article/160-years-later-S-F-s-1st-fire-engine-returns-6563931.php?t=7234df669f7df979bf&amp;cmpid=email-premium">The Fire Eater</a>,” the 170-plus-year-old fire engine was built and designed by William E. Worth in what we now know as the Financial District in 1850. Until that point, all local fire engines had been built in New York or Philadelphia and brought around “the Horn” by boat, according to the engine’s accompanying placard.

Renamed for United States Senator and volunteer fire bridge foreman David C. Broderick after <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/nativeson/article/160-years-later-S-F-s-1st-fire-engine-returns-6563931.php?t=7234df669f7df979bf&amp;cmpid=email-premium">he was killed in a duel in 1859</a>, the fire engine was the pride of one of San Francisco’s volunteer fire companies at the time and was equipped with iron and brass from the Vulcan Foundry and made out of wood from the Sandwich Islands. It took 40 men to pump water by hand from the engine.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Renamed for United States Senator and volunteer fire bridge foreman David C. Broderick after <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/nativeson/article/160-years-later-S-F-s-1st-fire-engine-returns-6563931.php?t=7234df669f7df979bf&amp;cmpid=email-premium">he was killed in a duel in 1859</a>, the fire engine was the pride of one of San Francisco’s volunteer fire companies at the time and was equipped with iron and brass from the Vulcan Foundry and made out of wood from the Sandwich Islands. It took 40 men to pump water by hand from the engine.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading">Lillie Coit’s Fire Helmet</h2>

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size">Lillie Coit’s Fire Helmet</h2>

Heiress and firefighter enthusiast Lillie Hitchcock Coit’s personal fire helmet. | Christina Campodonico&nbsp;

Heiress and firefighter enthusiast Lillie Hitchcock Coit’s personal fire helmet. | Christina Campodonico&nbsp;

The collection holds a few notable personal effects from Lillie&nbsp;

The collection holds a few notable personal effects from Lillie&nbsp;

Hitchcock Coit, the woman whose inheritance built Coit Tower and the “<a href="https://www.sfgate.com/news/article/Lillie-Hitchcock-Coit-a-San-Francisco-lady-3188302.php">patron saint of all the pioneer firemen in the city</a>,” including her leather fire helmet, which you might recognize from <a href="http://www.sfmuseum.net/hist1/h-coit2.html">one of her more famous photos</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hitchcock Coit, the woman whose inheritance built Coit Tower and the “<a href="https://www.sfgate.com/news/article/Lillie-Hitchcock-Coit-a-San-Francisco-lady-3188302.php">patron saint of all the pioneer firemen in the city</a>,” including her leather fire helmet, which you might recognize from <a href="http://www.sfmuseum.net/hist1/h-coit2.html">one of her more famous photos</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“She had a petite little head,” notes O’Keefe.&nbsp;

“She had a petite little head,” notes O’Keefe.&nbsp;

Coit was not a firefighter herself but an enthusiastic supporter of the <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/search/?action=search&amp;channel=news&amp;inlineLink=1&amp;searchindex=solr&amp;query=%22Knickerbocker+Engine+Co.%22">Knickerbocker Engine Co</a>mpany No. 5.

Coit was not a firefighter herself but an enthusiastic supporter of the <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/search/?action=search&amp;channel=news&amp;inlineLink=1&amp;searchindex=solr&amp;query=%22Knickerbocker+Engine+Co.%22">Knickerbocker Engine Co</a>mpany No. 5.

“Everything she had, had a number five on it because she was a very proud member,” said O’Keefe.&nbsp;

“Everything she had, had a number five on it because she was a very proud member,” said O’Keefe.&nbsp;

Other items on display include a printing plate for Coit’s calling cards, a gold handled cane that belonged to her family, a table cloth with the No. 5 stitched onto it and a corkscrew.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Other items on display include a printing plate for Coit’s calling cards, a gold handled cane that belonged to her family, a table cloth with the No. 5 stitched onto it and a corkscrew.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Portsmouth Square Fire Bell <img width="624" height="831" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Fr0fvd1FRPcIvIfsui-hR5wPPurIdqBTrTzD9OBhk5-hfjeBvgckYTQJyxsrkQkZplJkNLzMCWzVvHv2hziNWGGhu5ENvE611yri3Z2Kp8ZvcvXifevAVawLCPUKOgEv9MvBv3qD5d1pTTbdFQ">

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading">Portsmouth Square Fire Bell <img width="624" height="831" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Fr0fvd1FRPcIvIfsui-hR5wPPurIdqBTrTzD9OBhk5-hfjeBvgckYTQJyxsrkQkZplJkNLzMCWzVvHv2hziNWGGhu5ENvE611yri3Z2Kp8ZvcvXifevAVawLCPUKOgEv9MvBv3qD5d1pTTbdFQ"></h2>

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size">Portsmouth Square Fire Bell <img width="624" height="831" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Fr0fvd1FRPcIvIfsui-hR5wPPurIdqBTrTzD9OBhk5-hfjeBvgckYTQJyxsrkQkZplJkNLzMCWzVvHv2hziNWGGhu5ENvE611yri3Z2Kp8ZvcvXifevAVawLCPUKOgEv9MvBv3qD5d1pTTbdFQ"></h2>

This bell was made in Paul Revere’s foundry and hung in Chinatown’s Portsmouth Square until San Francisco’s 1906 earthquake. | Christina Campodonico

This bell was made in Paul Revere’s foundry and hung in Chinatown’s Portsmouth Square until San Francisco’s 1906 earthquake. | Christina Campodonico

Installed in Chinatown’s Portsmouth Square in the 1850s, this giant bell was rung to alert citizens to fire in the area and call for help. It was originally made in Paul Revere’s foundry and came to California around “the Horn” of South America, according to O’Keefe.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Installed in Chinatown’s Portsmouth Square in the 1850s, this giant bell was rung to alert citizens to fire in the area and call for help. It was originally made in Paul Revere’s foundry and came to California around “the Horn” of South America, according to O’Keefe.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The bell hung in Chinatown until 1906 when that year’s infamous earthquake shook it down, causing it to fall and crack.&nbsp;

The bell hung in Chinatown until 1906 when that year’s infamous earthquake shook it down, causing it to fall and crack.&nbsp;

The story goes that it was going to be dumped in a landfill, recounted O’Keefe, but then a group of historic-minded citizens rescued the bell from destruction.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The story goes that it was going to be dumped in a landfill, recounted O’Keefe, but then a group of historic-minded citizens rescued the bell from destruction.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“They said, we can&#8217;t just let it be dumped, so they took it out,” said O’Keefe.

“They said, we can't just let it be dumped, so they took it out,” said O’Keefe.

“They said, we can&#8217;t just let it be dumped, so they took it out,” said O’Keefe.

Ironically enough, the word “department” in San Francisco Fire Department is misspelled.&nbsp;

Ironically enough, the word “department” in San Francisco Fire Department is misspelled.&nbsp;

SF first responder museum remembers the city’s firefighters, police, ambulance drivers and more

Associated Press

George Kelly

Jennifer Wadsworth

Jimmy Carter, the peanut farmer who won the presidency in the wake of the Watergate scandal and Vietnam War, endured humbling defeat after one tumultuous term and then redefined life after the White House as a global humanitarian, has died. He was 100 years old.

Jimmy Carter, the peanut farmer who won the presidency in the wake of the Watergate scandal and Vietnam War, endured humbling defeat after one tumultuous term and then redefined life after the White House as a global humanitarian, has died. He was 100 years old.

The longest-lived American president died on Sunday, more than a year after entering hospice care, at his home in the small town of Plains, Georgia, where he and his wife, Rosalynn, who died at 96 in November 2023, spent most of their lives, The Carter Center said.

The longest-lived American president died on Sunday, more than a year after entering hospice care, at his home in the small town of Plains, Georgia, where he and his wife, Rosalynn, who died at 96 in November 2023, spent most of their lives, The Carter Center said.

ATLANTA - OCTOBER 10:  Former President Jimmy Carter and wife Rosalyn converse prior to the start of Game Three of the NLDS of the 2010 MLB Playoffs between the Atlanta Braves and the San Francisco Giants on October 10, 2010 at Turner Field in Atlanta, Georgia.  (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1711" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/gettyimages-105134732.jpg?w=2500" alt="An elderly man in a blue shirt and cap chats with a woman in a green jacket and sunglasses. They sit closely, smiling at each other." class="wp-image-349067"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Former President Jimmy Carter and wife Rosalynn chat in October 2010 before a National League playoff game between the Atlanta Braves and the San Francisco Giants at Turner Field in Atlanta, Georgia.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/gettyimages-105134732.jpg?w=2500" alt="An elderly man in a blue shirt and cap chats with a woman in a green jacket and sunglasses. They sit closely, smiling at each other." class="wp-image-349067"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Former President Jimmy Carter and wife Rosalynn chat in October 2010 before a National League playoff game between the Atlanta Braves and the San Francisco Giants at Turner Field in Atlanta, Georgia.</figcaption></figure>

“Our founder, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, passed away this afternoon in Plains, Georgia,” the center simply said in posting about Carter&#8217;s death on the social media platform X.

“Our founder, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, passed away this afternoon in Plains, Georgia,” the center simply said in posting about Carter's death on the social media platform X.

“Our founder, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, passed away this afternoon in Plains, Georgia,” the center simply said in posting about Carter&#8217;s death on the social media platform X.

Businessman, Navy officer, evangelist, politician, negotiator, author, woodworker, citizen of the world — Carter forged a path that still challenges political assumptions and stands out among the 45 men who reached the nation’s highest office.

Businessman, Navy officer, evangelist, politician, negotiator, author, woodworker, citizen of the world — Carter forged a path that still challenges political assumptions and stands out among the 45 men who reached the nation’s highest office.

The 39th president leveraged his ambition with a keen intellect, deep religious faith and prodigious work ethic, conducting diplomatic missions into his 80s and building houses for the poor well into his 90s.

The 39th president leveraged his ambition with a keen intellect, deep religious faith and prodigious work ethic, conducting diplomatic missions into his 80s and building houses for the poor well into his 90s.

Married couple, former President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter pose for photographers during a book signing event, San Francisco, California, 1987. Several members of the Secret Service can be seen behind them. The couple were promoting their book, 'Everything to Gain: Making the Most of the Rest of Your Life'. (Photo by Bromberger Hoover Photography/Getty Images)

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1666" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/gettyimages-1299994662.jpg?w=2500" alt="A smiling couple sits closely at a table, while several people stand in the background of a dimly lit room with ornate decorations." class="wp-image-349070"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Former President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter pose for photographers during a signing event for their 1987 book &#8220;Everything to Gain: Making the Most of the Rest of Your Life&#8221; in San Francisco. </figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/gettyimages-1299994662.jpg?w=2500" alt="A smiling couple sits closely at a table, while several people stand in the background of a dimly lit room with ornate decorations." class="wp-image-349070"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Former President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter pose for photographers during a signing event for their 1987 book "Everything to Gain: Making the Most of the Rest of Your Life" in San Francisco. </figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/gettyimages-1299994662.jpg?w=2500" alt="A smiling couple sits closely at a table, while several people stand in the background of a dimly lit room with ornate decorations." class="wp-image-349070"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Former President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter pose for photographers during a signing event for their 1987 book &#8220;Everything to Gain: Making the Most of the Rest of Your Life&#8221; in San Francisco. </figcaption></figure>

“My faith demands — this is not optional — my faith demands that I do whatever I can, wherever I am, whenever I can, for as long as I can, with whatever I have to try to make a difference,” Carter once said.

“My faith demands — this is not optional — my faith demands that I do whatever I can, wherever I am, whenever I can, for as long as I can, with whatever I have to try to make a difference,” Carter once said.

In San Francisco and beyond, local and state leaders reflected on Carter&#8217;s legacy as a civil rights champion.

In San Francisco and beyond, local and state leaders reflected on Carter's legacy as a civil rights champion.

In San Francisco and beyond, local and state leaders reflected on Carter&#8217;s legacy as a civil rights champion.

Maureen Sedonaen, the CEO at Habitat for Humanity Greater San Francisco, praised the former president&#8217;s &#8220;unyielding dedication to equity, justice, peace, and affordable housing for all.&#8221;

Maureen Sedonaen, the CEO at Habitat for Humanity Greater San Francisco, praised the former president's "unyielding dedication to equity, justice, peace, and affordable housing for all."

Maureen Sedonaen, the CEO at Habitat for Humanity Greater San Francisco, praised the former president&#8217;s &#8220;unyielding dedication to equity, justice, peace, and affordable housing for all.&#8221;

In an emailed statement to The Standard, she acknowledged his four-plus decades of volunteer work on behalf of the housing organization.

In an emailed statement to The Standard, she acknowledged his four-plus decades of volunteer work on behalf of the housing organization.

&#8220;At every step of his life, he treated others with kindness and looked for opportunities to level the playing field,&#8221; Sedonaen said. &#8220;We are grateful for his service and proud to continue his legacy as we work to build and preserve affordable housing in our Bay Area community.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

"At every step of his life, he treated others with kindness and looked for opportunities to level the playing field," Sedonaen said. "We are grateful for his service and proud to continue his legacy as we work to build and preserve affordable housing in our Bay Area community.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

&#8220;At every step of his life, he treated others with kindness and looked for opportunities to level the playing field,&#8221; Sedonaen said. &#8220;We are grateful for his service and proud to continue his legacy as we work to build and preserve affordable housing in our Bay Area community.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Equality California Executive Director Tony Hoang said Carter will be remembered as a lifelong advocate for marginalized people.

Equality California Executive Director Tony Hoang said Carter will be remembered as a lifelong advocate for marginalized people.

During a 1976 campaign visit to San Francisco — in which <a href="https://text-message.blogs.archives.gov/2018/06/25/jimmy-carter-and-harvey-milk-on-the-campaign-trail-and-beyond/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">he met Harvey Milk</a> a year before the LGBTQ activist became the city&#8217;s first openly gay elected supervisor — Carter announced that he planned to sign the Equality Act, a gay civil rights bill, if it landed on his desk as president.

During a 1976 campaign visit to San Francisco — in which <a href="https://text-message.blogs.archives.gov/2018/06/25/jimmy-carter-and-harvey-milk-on-the-campaign-trail-and-beyond/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">he met Harvey Milk</a> a year before the LGBTQ activist became the city's first openly gay elected supervisor — Carter announced that he planned to sign the Equality Act, a gay civil rights bill, if it landed on his desk as president.

During a 1976 campaign visit to San Francisco — in which <a href="https://text-message.blogs.archives.gov/2018/06/25/jimmy-carter-and-harvey-milk-on-the-campaign-trail-and-beyond/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">he met Harvey Milk</a> a year before the LGBTQ activist became the city&#8217;s first openly gay elected supervisor — Carter announced that he planned to sign the Equality Act, a gay civil rights bill, if it landed on his desk as president.

In 1977, he became the first sitting U.S. president to welcome a delegation of gay and lesbian advocates to the White House for policy discussions with the administration. And when he ran for re-election a few years later, he became the first Democrat to endorse a gay rights plank in the party&#8217;s national platform.

In 1977, he became the first sitting U.S. president to welcome a delegation of gay and lesbian advocates to the White House for policy discussions with the administration. And when he ran for re-election a few years later, he became the first Democrat to endorse a gay rights plank in the party's national platform.

In 1977, he became the first sitting U.S. president to welcome a delegation of gay and lesbian advocates to the White House for policy discussions with the administration. And when he ran for re-election a few years later, he became the first Democrat to endorse a gay rights plank in the party&#8217;s national platform.

&#8220;He believed that everyone deserves equal treatment and opportunities, regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation, or background,&#8221; Hoang said. &#8220;From his support of HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment efforts in Africa—increasing access to healthcare and education for those affected by the epidemic—to his vocal advocacy for marriage equality, President Carter used his powerful yet humble voice to speak up for all of us.&#8221;

"He believed that everyone deserves equal treatment and opportunities, regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation, or background," Hoang said. "From his support of HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment efforts in Africa—increasing access to healthcare and education for those affected by the epidemic—to his vocal advocacy for marriage equality, President Carter used his powerful yet humble voice to speak up for all of us."

&#8220;He believed that everyone deserves equal treatment and opportunities, regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation, or background,&#8221; Hoang said. &#8220;From his support of HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment efforts in Africa—increasing access to healthcare and education for those affected by the epidemic—to his vocal advocacy for marriage equality, President Carter used his powerful yet humble voice to speak up for all of us.&#8221;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">President Jimmy Carter was a beacon of justice and service—from desegregating schools to championing civil rights and building homes with Habitat for Humanity. He lived his faith and fought for dignity every day. May his memory be a blessing. Rest in power. <a href="https://t.co/3JFqpPlZHV">https://t.co/3JFqpPlZHV</a>&mdash; Lateefah Simon (@lateefahsimon) <a href="https://twitter.com/lateefahsimon/status/1873497768054132869?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Carter&#8217;s politics, and others&#8217; evolving understanding of their worth in the wake of his unprecedented post-presidency, left a powerful impact on present and future civic aspirants.

Carter's politics, and others' evolving understanding of their worth in the wake of his unprecedented post-presidency, left a powerful impact on present and future civic aspirants.

Carter&#8217;s politics, and others&#8217; evolving understanding of their worth in the wake of his unprecedented post-presidency, left a powerful impact on present and future civic aspirants.

In a commencement speech May 22 for San Francisco State University&#8217;s political science department, San Francisco Supervisor Joel Engardio <a href="https://engardio.com/blog/jimmy-carter">told graduates</a> that a plaque that asks &#8220;What would Jimmy Carter do?&#8221; hangs above his desk at City Hall.

In a commencement speech May 22 for San Francisco State University's political science department, San Francisco Supervisor Joel Engardio <a href="https://engardio.com/blog/jimmy-carter">told graduates</a> that a plaque that asks "What would Jimmy Carter do?" hangs above his desk at City Hall.

In a commencement speech May 22 for San Francisco State University&#8217;s political science department, San Francisco Supervisor Joel Engardio <a href="https://engardio.com/blog/jimmy-carter">told graduates</a> that a plaque that asks &#8220;What would Jimmy Carter do?&#8221; hangs above his desk at City Hall.

On learning about Carter&#8217;s death Sunday, Engardio called him &#8220;one of our greatest presidents.”

On learning about Carter's death Sunday, Engardio called him "one of our greatest presidents.”

On learning about Carter&#8217;s death Sunday, Engardio called him &#8220;one of our greatest presidents.”

“He was ahead of his time on some critical issues we face today, like the environment,” Engardio said.  “He led with decency, dignity, and empathy. His work building homes — literally wielding a hammer well into his 90s — for Habitat for Humanity underscored his commitment to improve the human condition in every way.&#8221;

“He was ahead of his time on some critical issues we face today, like the environment,” Engardio said. “He led with decency, dignity, and empathy. His work building homes — literally wielding a hammer well into his 90s — for Habitat for Humanity underscored his commitment to improve the human condition in every way."

“He was ahead of his time on some critical issues we face today, like the environment,” Engardio said. “He led with decency, dignity, and empathy. His work building homes — literally wielding a hammer well into his 90s — for Habitat for Humanity underscored his commitment to improve the human condition in every way.&#8221;

Engardio also pointed to the former president&#8217;s <a href="https://americanhistory.si.edu/collections/object/nmah_1356218">placement of solar panels</a> atop the White House roof 45 years ago.

Engardio also pointed to the former president's <a href="https://americanhistory.si.edu/collections/object/nmah_1356218">placement of solar panels</a> atop the White House roof 45 years ago.

Engardio also pointed to the former president&#8217;s <a href="https://americanhistory.si.edu/collections/object/nmah_1356218">placement of solar panels</a> atop the White House roof 45 years ago.

&#8220;Imagine how much better the world would be if we had followed Jimmy Carter’s vision and spent the past half century focused on advancing renewable energy,&#8221; Engardio said.

"Imagine how much better the world would be if we had followed Jimmy Carter’s vision and spent the past half century focused on advancing renewable energy," Engardio said.

&#8220;Imagine how much better the world would be if we had followed Jimmy Carter’s vision and spent the past half century focused on advancing renewable energy,&#8221; Engardio said.

Former Georgia Governor (and future US President) Jimmy Carter with waves at a campaign rally in Ghirardelli Square, San Francisco, California, October 31, 1976. Among those visible behind him is California Governor Jerry Brown (at right, over CarterÕs left shoulder). (Photo by Janet Fries/Getty Images)

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/gettyimages-1328750678.jpg?w=2500" alt="A smiling man in a suit waves to a crowd at an event, surrounded by other formally dressed individuals. The scene is lively with dim overhead lighting." class="wp-image-349069"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Former Georgia Governor (and future US President) Jimmy Carter waves at an October 1976 campaign rally in Ghirardelli Square in San Francisco. Behind Carter&#8217;s left shoulder, then-California Gov. Jerry Brown is also visible.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/gettyimages-1328750678.jpg?w=2500" alt="A smiling man in a suit waves to a crowd at an event, surrounded by other formally dressed individuals. The scene is lively with dim overhead lighting." class="wp-image-349069"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Former Georgia Governor (and future US President) Jimmy Carter waves at an October 1976 campaign rally in Ghirardelli Square in San Francisco. Behind Carter's left shoulder, then-California Gov. Jerry Brown is also visible.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/gettyimages-1328750678.jpg?w=2500" alt="A smiling man in a suit waves to a crowd at an event, surrounded by other formally dressed individuals. The scene is lively with dim overhead lighting." class="wp-image-349069"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Former Georgia Governor (and future US President) Jimmy Carter waves at an October 1976 campaign rally in Ghirardelli Square in San Francisco. Behind Carter&#8217;s left shoulder, then-California Gov. Jerry Brown is also visible.</figcaption></figure>

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Mayor Breed walks a tightrope on policing during annual State of the City

SF first responder museum remembers the city’s firefighters, police, ambulance drivers and more

Jimmy Carter, former president and lifelong humanitarian, dies at 100

With drug dealing at their doorstep, Tenderloin seniors say they’re trapped and ignored

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