Loading...
The URL can be used to link to this page
Your browser does not support the video tag.
Home
My WebLink
About
03-05-2008 Supplemental Council Agenda
Chuck Page From: Cliff Reader [cliff @reader.com] Sent: Wed 3/5/2008 3:19 PM To: Aileen Kao; Ann Waltonsmith; Chuck Page; Kathleen King; Jill Hunter Cc: Dave Anderson; Cathleen Boyer Subject: Attachments: Dear Saratoga Council Members, I am a 25 -year resident of the village /hillside area of Saratoga. I actively support the development of the Village, with a vision of providing an environment for we who live here to enjoy a place where we can shop, dine and run into friends on a day -to -day basis. I'm writing this email in support of the proposal for a Retail Site Assessment to be conducted by the Buxton Company. This is a strong first step to understand and document the detailed demographics of the village neighborhood. If we are to attract and keep businesses that serve local resident's everyday needs, we must demonstrate the viability of such businesses to prospective business owners. The proposed report would help us achieve this goal. Sincerely, Cliff Reader 15000 Pierce Road, Saratoga 408 867 4884 Home office 408 857 0209 Mobile cliffreader Skype cliff @reader.com www.reader.com Page 1 of 1 https: /xmail. saratoga.ca.us/ exchange /cpage /Inbox/No %20Subj ect- 645.EML ?Cmd =open 3/5/2008 Memo To: Mayor and City Council From: Cathleen Boyer, City Clerk Date: March 5, 2008 Re: Agenda Item 10 Kevin Moran Park City of Saratoga City Clerk's office Attached are emails staff has received in regards to agenda item #10. John Cherbone From: Paul Jacobs [1250man @gmail.com] Sent: Saturday, March 01, 2008 3:40 PM To: John Cherbone Subject: Kevin Moran Park Hello John, I understand that the Kevin Moran Park task force plan is coming before the council next week for discussion. Unfortunately I cannot attend the session, so I am writing instead. I would very much like to see the council approve the plan without further changes. As you are aware a great deal of time and effort was devoted to this plan and it had the approval of all the various interest groups involved. It is a good, solid workable plan which meets the needs not only of the neighborhood and the sports groups, but of all Saratogans. Regards, Paul Jacobs 3/5/2008 Page 1 of 1 Cathleen Boyer From: Ray Turn [rtum @adobe.com] Sent: Wednesday, March 05, 2008 4:43 PM To: Aileen Kao; Ann Waltonsmith; Chuck Page; Kathleen King; Jill Hunter Cc: Dave Anderson; Cathleen Boyer; Martin Goldberg; peter_pranys @mentor.com; Elaine Clabeaux Subject: Kevin Moran Park Saratoga City Council: I might not be able to attend tonight's meeting so I wanted to communicate that my family and I support the Park Improvement Project and the proposed Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND). Thanks. /Ray 12195 Saraglen Drive FAO Adobe 3/5/2008 Raymond M. Tum Group Manager NA License Compliance Program Adobe Systems Incorporated 345 Park Avenue, MS A09 San Jose, CA 95110 -2704 USA 408.536.6491 rtum@adobe.com. Page 1 of 1 Cathleen Boyer From: Ann Waltonsmith Sent: Wednesday, March 05, 2008 2:16 PM To: Cathleen Boyer Subject: FW: Kevin Moran Park For public information Ann Waltonsmith Mayor, City of Saratoga From: Rick Wong [mailto:rick9y @yahoo.com] Sent: Wed 3/5/2008 12:19 PM To: Ann Waltonsmith Subject: Kevin Moran Park Please support the planned improvements for Kevin Moran Park. We need more developed park space in Saratoga. Thank you, Rick Wong 18812 Bellgrove Cir Saratoga, CA 95070 408 255 -1747 Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with ._Yahoo! ....Search. 3/5/2008 Page 1 of 1 Cathleen Boyer From: Ann Waltonsmith Sent: Wednesday, March 05, 2008 2:15 PM To: Cathleen Boyer Subject: FW: Tonight's Council Meeting on Kevin Moran Park For public information Ann Ann Waltonsmith Mayor, City of Saratoga From: Drean Lu [mailto:drean_lu ©yahoo.com] Sent: Wed 3/5/2008 1:30 PM To: Aileen Kao; Ann Waltonsmith; Chuck Page; Kathleen King; Jill Hunter Cc: KY Wang Subject: Tonight's Council Meeting on Kevin Moran Park To Our Council Members, Page 1 of 1 Although we feel strongly about preserving KMP's current nature setting for our city's future, it looks impossible with the Council's strong support of the soccer teams' demand. At the minimum, we shall keep the park's fields for practices only, with no more than two teams at once, not to exceed a maximum number of players, and on a limited schedule (no Sundays, maximum number of Saturdays, etc) as outlined in the MND. The City shall plant new trees to compensate for the trees that will be lost as a result of the new development. We need to increase not decrease the tree population in Saratoga, especially in our public parks. You and your families will appreciate this for the years to come. Sincerely, Drean Lu Kuang -Yu Wang Viewridge Drive 3/5/2008 Cathleen Boyer Page 1 of 2 From: Sandra Cross (sandyc) [sandyc @cisco.com] Sent: Tuesday, March 04, 2008 11:16 AM To: KMP- Neighbors @yahoogroups.com; Richard Pearce; Kristin Borel; Aileen Kao; Ann Waltonsmith; Chuck Page; Dave Anderson; Jill Hunter; John Cherbone; Kathleen King; Cathleen Boyer Cc: do @community newspapers.com; dsparrer @community newspapers.com Subject: DYSL wants KMP now. Soccer has enough! City Council and Staff Below is an email from .DYSL in which they call out members to attend the city council meeting on. Wednesday the 5th. They are also compensated for two hours of volunteer time. What happens when they do not log their volunteer time? They have to pay money. Sounds like paid lobbyist to me. So, A YSO wants KtviP. DYSL is providing lobby efforts to secure and expand the "wants" of soccer. In the last year, you have provided them with two fields at West valley College, and one field at Prospect high. Wow, it is still not enough. When are you going to say no? Ann and Aileen, when you are gone, and they "the sports user groups" go after 'just practice fields" at heritage orchard park, I wonder who, on the other side of the tracks, from the coveted heritage orchard park, will support resistance? Sandy Cross Sohey Meadows Court Parents and Players, Please see my important announcement regarding a meeting next week. It would be greatly appreciated if you can attend. Non Saratoga residents are welcome. We need to make sure our open space use in the area includes adequate facilities to train and play soccer and other outdoor sports that require grass fields. Thanks. Coach John From: dysl_membership @yahoogroups.com [mailto:dysl membership@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Plecque, John Sent: Thursday, February 28, 2008 8:42 PM To: dysl me.. mbership.@y..a.hoogroups.com Cc: David Mighdoll Subject: [dysl_membership] City of Saratoga City Counsel Meeting on Kevin Moran Park EIR ACTION REQUIRED As discussed at our DYSL Board Meeting this week, the City of Saratoga is having a City Counsel Meeting on Wednesday, March 5th, 7:00? PM. The address is 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, CA 95070. The meeting will 3/4/2008 include a discussion regarding the Kevin Moran Park EIR which we include a discussion and analysis of various uses of the site. It is critical to have a large number of "youth athletic groups" represented at this meeting. Please forward this email to your teams and ask them to attend. I will work with David Mighdoll to ensure there is a DYSL sign -in sheet at the meeting so that each attendee receives two hours of volunteer credit for their time. Thanks to you and your teams for supporting this important field use issue. John Plecque DYSL VP of Fields Any information contained in or attached to this e -mail is intended solely for the use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain information that is confidential or legally privileged. If you are not an intended recipient of this e-mail, please notify the sender of the delivery error and then please delete and destroy all copies and attachments, and be advised that any review or dissemination of, or the taking of any action in reliance on, the information contained in or attached to this e-mail is expressly prohibited. See http// www. bankofamerca com /emaiildisclaimer for further important information on confidentiality, the risks inherent in electronic communication (including the possibility that e- mail messages cannot be guaranteed to be secure or free of errors or viruses)! some of our policies regarding transactions and pricing and certain other matters. 3/4/2008 Page 2 of 2 Cathleen Boyer From: Ann Waltonsmith Sent: Wednesday, March 05, 2008 8:13 AM To: City Council; Cathleen Boyer Subject: FW: Kevin Moran park Cathleen Please put in the public record Thanks Ann Ann Waltonsmith Mayor, City of Saratoga From: Ann King [mailto:annwking ©verizon.net] Sent: Tue 3/4/2008 10:36 PM To: Ann Waltonsmith Subject: Kevin Moran park Hi, I'm a mom in Saratoga and can't attend tomorrow's meeting, but we support the improvements to the park! Ann King 3/5/2008 Page 1 of 1 Cathleen Boyer From: Ann Waltonsmith Sent: Wednesday, March 05, 2008 8:14 AM To: Cathleen Boyer; City Council Subject: FW: Kevin Moran Park Cathleen Please put in the public record Ann Ann Waltonsmith Mayor, City of Saratoga From: Art and Maureen Destin [mailto:artdestin ©comcast.net] Sent: Tue 3/4/2008 11:05 PM To: Aileen Kao; Ann Waltonsmith; Chuck Page; Kathleen King; Jill Hunter; Dave Anderson; Cathleen Boyer Subject: Kevin Moran Park Saratoga City Council, Page 1 of 1 I would like to offer my input on the proposal for Kevin Moran Park. In general, I am supportive of the recommendation. One change I would consider would be to place the proposed tennis court for Kevin Moran at Azule Park instead (next to the existing tennis court). My understanding is that this was the original proposal for Azule. However, neighbors complained at the threat of too much usage. If the city is going to spend money on tennis courts, I would hope there would be usage. When deciding whether to journey to the park to play tennis, one would hope to be able to play within a reasonable time frame. With two courts together, the expected wait time would be greatly reduced. Two courts together would attract much more usage from the community. Having one court each in separate parks will essentially limit participation to the neighbors living next to the park. Not many would be willing to travel to a single court with the thought of having to wait an hour, or face the task of having to walk over the freeway or drive around on Cox to the other park to see if the other court is open. Regards, Art Destin 19443 Miller Court Saratoga, CA 3/5/2008 Cathleen Boyer From: Margery Chen [margerychen @yahoo.com]. Sent: Tuesday, March 04, 2008 11:41 PM To: Dave Anderson; Cathleen Boyer Subject: Fwd: Kevin Moran Park improvements approval Margery Chef: <margerychen@yahoo.com> wrote: Date: Tue, 4 Mar 2008 23:33:11 -0800 (PST) From: Margery Chen <margerychen @yahoo.com> Subject: Kevin Moran Park improvements approval To: kk2king @saratoga.ca.us Dear Mrs. King, As a Saratoga resident, I approve of the plan the Task force has so carefully planned for Kevin Moran Park. Please approve at the March 5 2008 council meeting the plans and approve the funding for the final plans and construction drawings. I want the start of construction to start immediately. We have waited a long time to improve Kevin Moran Park for the benefit of all Saratoga residents. Thank you, Margery Chen 18812 Bellgrove Circle Saratoga, CA 95070 Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find. them fast with Yahoo! Search. Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with Yahoo! Search.. 3/5/2008 Page 1 of 1 Cathleen Boyer From: Margery Chen [margerychen @yahoo.com] Sent: Tuesday, March 04, 2008 11:41 PM To: Dave Anderson; Cathleen Boyer Subject: Fwd: Kevin Moran Park improvement approval Margery Chen <margeryche,i@yahoo.com> wrote: Date: Tue, 4 Mar 2008 23:32:13 -0800 (PST) From: Margery Chen <margerychen @yahoo.com> Subject: Kevin Moran Park improvement approval To: cpage @saratoga.ca.us Dear Mr. Page, As a Saratoga resident, I approve of the plan the Task force has so carefully planned for Kevin Moran Park. Please approve at the March 5 2008 council meeting the plans and approve the funding for the final plans and construction drawings. I want the start of construction to start immediately. We have waited a long time to improve Kevin Moran Park for the benefit of all Saratoga residents. Thank you, Margery Chen 18812 Bellgrove Circle Saratoga, CA 95070 Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with Yahoo! Search. Never miss a thing. Make .__Yahoo ...your honle..p.age. 3/5/2008 Page 1 of 1 Cathleen Boyer Dear Mrs. Hunter, From: Margery Chen [margerychen @yahoo.com] Sent: Tuesday, March 04, 2008 11:42 PM To: Dave Anderson; Cathleen Boyer Subject: Fwd: Kevin Moran Park improvements approval Margery Chen <margerychen a�yahoo.com> wrote: Date: Tue, 4 Mar 2008 23:34:48 -0800 (PST) From: Margery Chen <margerychen @yahoo.com> Subject: Kevin Moran Park improvements approval To: jhunter @saratoga.ca.us As a Saratoga resident, I approve of the plan the Task force has so carefully planned for Kevin Moran Park. Please approve at the March 5 2008 council meeting the plans and approve the funding for the final plans and construction drawings. I want the start of construction to start immediately. We have waited a long time to improve Kevin Moran Park for the benefit of all Saratoga residents. Thank you, Margery Chen 18812 Bellgrove Circle Saratoga, CA 95070 Never miss a thing. Make Yahoo your homepage. Be a better friend, newshound, and know -it -all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try.._ it now. 3/5/2008 Page 1 of 1 Cathleen Boyer From: Margery Chen [margerychen @yahoo.com] Sent: Tuesday, March 04, 2008 11:40 PM To: Dave Anderson; Cathleen Boyer Subject: Fwd: Kevin Moran Park Margery Chen <margerychen@ahoo.com> wrote: Date: Tue, 4 Mar 2008 23:30:27 -0800 (PST) From: Margery Chen <margerychen @yahoo.com> Subject: Kevin Moran Park To: akao @saratoga.ca.us Dear Mrs. Kao, As a Saratoga resident, I approve of the plan the Task force has so carefully planned for Kevin Moran Park. Please approve at the March 5 2008 council meeting the plans and approve the funding for the final plans and construction drawings. I want the start of construction to start immediately. We have waited a long time to improve Kevin Moran Park for the benefit of all Saratoga residents. Thank you, Margery Chen 18812 Bellgrove Circle Saratoga, CA 95070 Be a better friend, newshound, and know -it -all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now. Looking f o r last minute shopping deals? Find them..fast with Yahoo! Search.. 3/5/2008 Page 1 of 1 Cathleen Boyer From: Ann Waltonsmith Sent: Wednesday, March 05, 2008 8:15 AM To: Cathleen Boyer Cc: City Council Subject: FW: Kevin Moran Park Cathleen Please put in the public record Thanks Ann Ann Waltonsmith Mayor, City of Saratoga From: Margery Chen [mailto:margerychen @yahoo.com] Sent: Tue 3/4/2008 11:31 PM To: Ann Waltonsmith Subject: Kevin Moran Park Dear Mrs. Waltonsmith, Page 1 of 1 As a Saratoga resident, I approve of the plan the Task force has so carefully planned for Kevin Moran Park. Please approve at the March 5 2008 council meeting the plans and approve the funding for the final plans and construction drawings. I want the start of construction to start immediately. We have waited a long time to improve Kevin Moran Park for the benefit of all Saratoga residents. Thank you, Margery Chen 18812 Bellgrove Circle Saratoga, CA 95070 Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with Yahoo! Search. 3/5/2008 Cathleen Boyer From: Ann Waltonsmith Sent: Wednesday, March 05, 2008 8:59 AM To: Cathleen Boyer Cc: City Council Subject: FW: Kevin Moran for AYSO soccer practice Cathleen Please put in the public record. Ann Ann Waltonsmith Mayor, City of Saratoga From: Ritu Saini (rsaini) [mailto:rsaini @cisco.com] Sent: Wed 3/5/2008 8:39 AM To: Aileen Kao; Ann Waltonsmith; Chuck Page Subject: Kevin Moran for AYSO soccer practice Hi Council Members, I've got 3 kids (9, 6 and 4) who ALL play soccer through AYSO. Please allow Kevin Moran to be used as a practice field. Thanks, Ritu Ritu Saini, Strategic Marketing, Cisco Systems Inc. (w) 408 525 -5245 (m) 408 219 -4370 Email rsaini. acisco.com 3/5/2008 Page 1 of 1 Cathleen Boyer From: Katey Kennedy [katey.kennedy @uselogic.com] Sent: Wednesday, March 05, 2008 9:02 AM To: Aileen Kao; Ann Waltonsmith; Chuck Page; Kathleen King; Jill Hunter Cc: Dave Anderson; Cathleen Boyer Subject: Kevin Moran Park Topic Tonight Dear City Council: 3/5/2008 Page 1 of 1 Unfortunately I'll not be able to attend tonight's meeting where the topic of Kevin Moran Park will be discussed. As a result, I wanted to send you my thoughts for your consideration. First let me congratulate you on getting this far in the process. It has been long and difficult road. I believe the current plans, with all the compromises, do a good job in addressing the many needs of the community, neighbors and the park user groups. We, you, the community have spent many countless hours reviewing the plans for this park; I urge you to keep the process moving and act on your staff recommendation and accept the conceptual plan The community needs improved facilities at this park and delaying the proposed work hurts everyone. I look forward to the outcome from tonight's meeting and again appreciate all the time and effort you put into this community on our behalf (it is a sometimes thankless job). Sincerely, Katey Kennedy Carnelian Glen Ct. Cathleen Boyer From: ralley [ralley @pacbell.net] Sent: Wednesday, March 05, 2008 9:05 AM To: Aileen Kao; Ann Waltonsmith; Chuck Page; Kathleen King; Jill Hunter Cc: Dave Anderson; Cathleen Boyer; KMP- Neighbors @yahoogroups.com Subject: Kevin Moran Park Plan Page 1 of 1 I am emailing you to let you know that I am in support of the proposed Kevin Moran development plan and the mitigation actions outlined in the MND. It has been a long hard road to achieve this compromised design solution and I feel that Saratoga will be very pleased with the result. Limiting the used of the fields to practice only will mitigate the traffic /parking issues I have been most concerned about. That you and the task force for all the hard work. Bob Alley Northampton Drive 3/5/2008 Cathleen Boyer From: hoparrish @aol.com Sent: Wednesday, March 05, 2008 9:47 AM To: ralley @pacbell.net; Aileen Kao; Ann Waltonsmith; Chuck Page; Kathleen King; Jill Hunter Cc: Dave Anderson; Cathleen Boyer; KMP- Neighbors @yahoogroups.com Subject: Spam:Re: [KMP- Neighbors] Kevin Moran Park Plan Council Members, We agree with Bob Alley. Thank you for all of your hard work and we appreciate you working with the neighborhood. Sincerely, Heidi George Parrish Northampton Dr. Original Message From: ralley ralley @pacbell.net> To: akao @saratoga.ca.us; awaltonsmith @saratoga.ca.us; cpage @saratoga.ca.us; kk2king @saratoga.ca.us; jhunter @saratoga.ca.us Cc: davea @saratoga.ca.us; ctclerk @saratoga.ca.us; KMP- Neighbors @yahoogroups.com Sent: Wed, 5 Mar 2008 9:04 am Subject: [KMP- Neighbors] Kevin Moran Park Plan I am emailing you to let you know that I am in support of the proposed Kevin Moran development plan and the mitigation actions outlined in the MND. It has been a long hard road to achieve this compromised design solution and I feel that Saratoga will be very pleased with the result. Limiting the used of the fields to practice only will mitigate the traffic /parking issues I have been most concerned about. That you and the task force for all the hard work. Bob Alley Northampton Drive Messages in this topic Reply (via web Start a new topic Messages. lakr..00tGROUPS Change se ttings (Yahoo! ID required) Change settings via email: Switch to Daily Digest I Switch format. to Traditional Visit Your Group Yahoo! ...Groups ._Terms of Use I Unsubscribe. 3/5/2008 Visit Your Group Yahoo! Finance It's Now Personal Guides, news, advice more. Do- It- Yourselfers on Yahoo! Groups How -to ideas, projects and more. Yahoo! Groups Dog Zone Connect w /others who love dogs. Page 1 of 2 Cathleen Boyer From: Stephanie Macauley [stephmacauley ©sbcglobal.net] Sent: Wednesday, March 05, 2008 9:56 AM To: Aileen Kao; Ann Waltonsmith; Chuck Page; Kathleen King; Cathleen Boyer; Jill Hunter; Dave Anderson Subject: Kevin Moran Park I have been a long time citizen of Saratoga I grew up here and now I am raising my family here too. I am definitely in favor of improving the park. What a great addition to Saratoga especially for young kids and families to benefit from. Regards, Stephanie Macauley 3/5/2008 Page 1 of 1 KMP Page 1 of 1 Cathleen Boyer From: Ann Waltonsmith Sent: Wednesday, March 05, 2008 10:30 AM To: Cathleen Boyer Subject: FW: KMP For the public record. Ann Ann Waltonsmith Mayor, City of Saratoga From: Adele Barbara Salle [mailto:salle @usfca.edu] Sent: Wed 3/5/2008 9:54 AM To: "o akao @saratoga.ca.us; Ann Waltonsmith; Chuck Page; Kathleen King; Jill Hunter Subject: KMP Saratoga Council Members: Please stay true to the following: 1. The park shall be for practice use only. 2. The number of sports groups with user agreements to use the park is limited to two. 3. The total number of teams which can use the park at any given time is the current number and one additional team Don't allow yourselves to be swayed by Soccer parents who are being encouraged to attend the meeting tonight to make you change your minds. We've worked long and hard to come to agreement on the use of the park. Don't destroy all that has been agreed to. 3/5/2008 Cathleen Boyer From: Gary Rodrigues [garyr @starone.org] Sent: Wednesday, March 05, 2008 10:36 AM To: Aileen Kao; Ann Waltonsmith; Chuck Page; Kathleen King; Jill Hunter Cc: Dave Anderson; Cathleen Boyer Subject: Kevin Moran Park Please move forward on improving Kevin Moran Park. We need the field space. Gary Rodrigues 14098 Loma Rio Drive Cathleen Boyer From: Shah Rina [rina_u_shah @yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, March 05, 2008 10:48 AM To: Aileen Kao; Ann Waltonsmith; Chuck Page; Kathleen King; Jill Hunter; Cathleen Boyer Cc: Howard Miller Subject: Re: Kevin Moran Park's plan approval! This is to let you all know that I am hoping for the approval of the conceptual plans for the Kevin Moran Park and hope to see it approved in today's meeting. The completion of the project will greatly benefit our children and our community. Thanks, Rina Shah Never miss a thing. Make Yahoo your homepage. 3/5/2008 Page 1 of 1 Cathleen Boyer From: Carol Small [carolsmall2 @comcast.net] Sent: Wednesday, March 05, 2008 1:41 PM To: HOParrish @aol.com Cc: ralley©pacbell.net; Aileen Kao; Ann Waltonsmith; Chuck Page; Kathleen King; Jill Hunter; Dave Anderson; Cathleen Boyer; KMP-Neighbors©yahoogroups.com Subject: Spam:Re: [KMP- Neighbors] Kevin Moran Park Plan Yes, we agree, too. Thanks to all our neighbors who worked so hard on this. And thank you to the Council for listening. Hunt and Carol Small Northampton Dr. On Mar 5, 2008, at 9:47 AM, HOParrishaol.con wrote: 3/5/2008 Council Members, We agree with Bob Alley. Thank you for all of your hard work and we appreciate you working with the neighborhood. Sincerely, Heidi George Parrish Northampton Dr. Original Message From: ralley ralley @pacbell.net> To: akao @saratoga.ca.us; awaltonsmith @saratoga.ca.us; cpage @saratoga.ca.us; kk2king @saratoga.ca.us; jhunter @saratoga.ca.us Cc: davea @saratoga.ca.us; ctclerk @saratoga.ca.us; KMP- Neighbors @yahoogroups. corn Sent: Wed, 5 Mar 2008 9:04 am Subject: [KMP- Neighbors] Kevin Moran Park Plan I am emailing you to let you know that I am in support of the proposed Kevin Moran development plan and the mitigation actions outlined in the MND. It has been a long hard road to achieve this compromised design solution and I feel that Saratoga will be very pleased with the result. Limiting the used of the fields to practice only will mitigate the traffic /parking issues I have been most concerned about. That you and the task force for all the hard work. Bob Alley Northampton Drive Page 1 of 2 Visit Your Group Yahoo! Finance It's Now Personal Guides, news, advice more. Dog Groups on Yahoo! Groups discuss everything related to dogs. Special K Group on Yahoo! Groups Learn how others are losing pounds. 3/5/2008 Supercharge your AIM. Get the AIM for your browser. Messages in this topic Reply (viaweb,.,post) l Start a Messages. la1-104Ce, GR'oUPs Change settings via the Web (Yahoo! ID required) Change settings via email: Switch delivery to Daily. I Switch format to Traditional Visit Your Group I Yahoo! Groups Terms of Use I Unsubscriba Page 2 of 2 Notes for the Saratoga City Council meeting, 3/5/07 On Jan. 23, 2008 the planning commission approved the plans for 13921 River Ranch Circle by a narrow vote of 4 to 3. In the voting three (3) of the planners felt the plans did not meet the city requirements for compatible bulk and height with the rest of the neighborhood, while three (3) did. The tie was broken by the chairwoman in favor of moving the project forward. There are 7 families on River Ranch Circle and 5 families on Jerries Lane who oppose this current plan. We would like the Saratoga City Council to return this project to the planning commission for further review and re- design. It's not good enough! Much has been said about the improvement in the original design but the fact remains that the current design, while an improvement over the original, still results in a structure that towers over our homes and stands out in the cul -de -sac overwhelming existing homes. It is also very visible to the residence across the creek on Jerries, blocking their back yard views and leaving a structure looking into their back yards. The Ranch Style homes on River Ranch Circle were built in the mid 1950's with living areas ranging from 1200 to 1600 square feet. Since then many have been remodeled staying with the one story California ranch style. We have increased our size to 2200 square feet while the house on 2500 square feet. The plans for this new structure call for the size of our original dwelling. Here are some photographs with lines that indicate the size of what is currently being proposed. the project increased in size to s is almost three (3) times $0 It is proposed to be 26 feet in height, towering over t• s. omes of 12 to 14 feet high. Furthermore if you look at the plans, the second story roof Ii' is not broken up buts ht across. Also, the proposal calls for massive front "craftman style doors All of s attention to this house at the expensive of its neighbors. The Planning Department provides to builders a pamphlet of drawings that show the do's and don'ts of acceptable home designs. From their drawing one can see the potential effect of a 4400 sq ft, two story house on the adjacent neighbors. Although, other two story homes do exist in adjacent neighborhoods, they have been carefully done to minimize any neighbor impact. This home will stand out and tower over its neighbors, not blend into the neighborhood. The planning commission originally suggested to the owner that this lot was truly unique and would call for a unique design to fit both the lot, the back creek area and the adjacent neighborhood but the plans presented are basically a large rectangle, shoe horned into a pie shape lot. The lot is 18,839 sq. feet and more could be used for a one story house but the owner has refused. We can do better! Progress has been made and more work could produce a home which would blend in the neighborhood and still meet most of the owner's requirements. It might be slightly smaller and not be as tall but it could be done. For example, the remodeled on the other side now has four bedrooms and an office in 2500 sq. feet. Li 3 The amount of time this project has taken is not the fault of the planning department. They have been prompt and direct in what they wanted to see. The neighborhood families have also promptly showed up at the planning office and provided inputs whenever there were plans to look at. We can do better by being more creative in the design of this home so as not to ruin a unique and very special neighborhood. Secondly, we have a personal issue with the plans. An upstairs window overlooks directly onto our pool and hot tub area. We have asked repeatedly that this window be removed to protect our privacy and in the interest of good neighborly relations. When the owner first came to us with his plans, he walked in the back yard and saw our issue. He promised to remove the window and a subsequent set of plans had no window facing our hot tub and pool. However, the final set of approved plans does have the window back in with the stipulation that it be opaque. Since it is an operable window, that is not much help. See pictures. The planning staff agreed that an operable sky light would solve this problem and be acceptable but the owner has rejected this. Any issues with the expanse of a large wall without windows could be fixed with a false architectural facade as is being proposed for the front of the house. This was never considered. We have lived here 32 years and planned our retirement to the quiet and privacy of our back yard. This is now threatened. We can do better! We would like the city council to return these plans to the planning commission to remove the window. Please help us protect our unique neighborhood by having any future building blend into its surroundings not dwarf them. Let's keep neighborhoods together, not destroy them. We can work together to have a set of plans which meets both the neighborhood and owner requirements. Reject these plans and return them to the building commission. I know we can do better! January 28, 2008 Dear MGU Bellarmine College Preparatory This spring, Santa Clara University, the Coast Forensic League, and the California High School Sp ech Association will host the annual State Championships in spe and debate,for high school udehts on the Santa Clara campus. The tournament dates are Friday, April 18 thugh Sunday, April 20th. The local hosts are required to provide local judges to balance parrels_Qf col ege students and ',coa c from throughout the state. We are approaching the leadership of the local communities to ask that they consider judging this important event. The coaching staff and team parents of Bellarmine College Preparatory have volunteered to coordinate local judges for this tournament. In addition, tech support at Bellarmine has enabled us to put judge info and sign up on our school web page. The schedule with rounds available, as well as on- line sign -up, is now posted. Simply go to www.bcp.org /CHSSA- Judges. Students are trained to compete in front of a wide variety of judges; no formal training is required. Still, local coaches will provide two convenient and optional workshops to train any interested judges as we approach the tournament. (These are currently scheduled at Mountain View High School. Speech, Public Forum debate and Parliamentary debate will take place Wed., Feb. 27; Lincoln Douglas and Policy debate will take place March 12. Both will be from 7:30 9 pm. Reminders will be sent to confirmed judges.) In addition, we invite judges to "warm up" by judging for the national qualifying tournament March 28 30, 2008 on the Bellarmine campus. Finally, full judging instructions are given at the tournament itself. However, we are fully confident that the leaders of our local cities would be wonderful judges. Please do consider this service to these students. If you have never had experience with competitive high school forensic competition, we guarantee you will be amazed. These young men and women work all year long (sometimes for years) for this very competition and the results are nothing short of incredible. Please reward that effort by supplying the kind of judging that these students deserve. If you have any questions, please email me at kionesPbcp.org or our parent chair, Angel Grindon at angelgrindon@ att.net Please visit our website to sign up. Many thanks for your consideration. Sincerely, Kim Jones Director Bellarmine Speech and Debate Angel Grindon 2008 State Tournament Judge Recruitment Chair 960 West Hedding Street, San Jose, California 95126 www.bcp.org PH 408.294.9224 FX 408.297.2072 Buxton° Retail Leakage and Supply Analysis The Retail Leakage and Supply Analysis examine the quantitative aspect of the community's retail opportunities. It is a guide to understanding retail opportunities but it is not an analysis that indicates unconditional opportunities. Sometimes called "A Gap Analysis" or "A Demand and Supply Analysis" it is useful in: Indicating how well the retail needs of local residents are being met Uncovering unmet demand and possible opportunities Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local retail sector Measuring the difference between actual and potential retail sales Understanding Retail Leakage Retail leakage means that residents are spending more for products than local businesses capture. Retail sales leakage suggests that there is unmet demand in the trade area and the community can support additional store space for that type of business. However, retail leakage does not necessarily translate into opportunity. For example, there could be a strong competitor in a neighboring community that dominates the market for that type of product or store. Understanding Retail Surplus A retail surplus means that the community's trade area is capturing the local market plus attracting non' local'shoppers. A retail surplus does not necessarily mean that the community cannot support additional business. Many communities have developed strong clusters of stores that have broad geographic appeal. Examples are sporting goods stores, home furnishing stores, restaurants and other specialties operations that become destination retailers and draw customers from outside the trade area. Examining the quantitative aspects (Leakage /Supply) is only part of the evaluation of community's retail opportunities. Before any conclusions can be drawn about potential business expansion or recruitment opportunities, qualitative considerations such as Trade Area Psychographics and Buying Habits must be analyzed in context of other market factors. Buxton IDentifying Cutcomers. Site Address Analysis Geography Site 1 Highway 180 Riverfront Dr. Your Community, US 76543 10 minutes Leakage/Surplus Index by Product The Leakage/Surplus Index provides a relative comparison of the supply and demand across retail product categories. It is calculated by dividing actual sales by potential sales. An index greater than 1.0 means that the community is attracting retail sales (surplus) from outside the trade area. If the index is less than 1.0 it means that out-shopping is taking place and the community is not successfully drawing its own residents. Leakage/Surplus Index (Figure 1) shows the strengths and weaknesses of a community's retail market by product. Figure 1. Leakage/Surplus Index by Product Leakage/Surplus index by Product Category Groories and Other Foods Meals and Snacks Alcoholic Drinks Packaged Liquor/Wine/Beer Ggars, Cigarettes, and Tobacci Smokers Access° lies Drugs, Health Aids, and Beauty Aids Soaps. Detergents. and Household Cleaners Paper and Related Products liens Wear Womens, Juniors, and Misses Wear Chi 'Arens Wear Footwear Sewing. Knitting, and Needlework Goods Curtains, Draperies, Blinds, Slipcovers etc. Major Household Appliances Small Electric Appliances Televisions, Video Reorders, Video Cameras Audio Equipment, Musical Instruments, and Supplies furniture and Sleep Equipment Hooting floor Coverings Computer Hardware, Software and Supplies Kitchenware and Home furnishings Jewelry Books Photographic Equipment Supplies Toys, Hobby Goods, and Games Optical Goods Sporting Goods Hardware Tools. and Plumbing and Electrical Supplies Lumber and Building Materials Paint and Sundries Cars, Trucks, and Other Powered Transportation Automotive fuels Automotive Ldbricartts Pets, Pet Foods, and Pet Supplies s All Other Plerdiridise PROW; 10:01.IVA' :;10 Buxton IlDentiffing Cus n. Site Address Analysis Geography Site 1 Highway 180 Riverfront Dr. Your Community, US 76543 10 minutes The actual dollar sales and the actual sales potential by product category and the resulting index is shown in Figure 2. Figure 2. Sales Potential and Actual Sales by Product Product Type Actual Sales Groceries and Other Foods Meals and Snacks Alcoholic Drinks Packaged Liquor/Wine/Beer;, Cigars, Cigarettes, and Tobacco Smokers Accessories Drugs, Health Aids -and Beauty Aids Soaps, Detergents, and Household Cleaners Paper and Related Products Mens Wear Women, Juniors, and Misses Wear" Childrens Wear Footwear:;' Sewing, Knitting, and Needlework Goods Curtains Draperies Blinds, Slipcovers etc. Major Household Appliances Small Electric Appliances Televisions, Video Recorders, Video Cameras Audio Equipment, Musical Instruments, and Supplies Furniture and Sleep Equipment Flooring Floor Coverings Computer Hardware. Software and Supplies Kitchenware and Home furnishings? Jewelry Books Photographic Equipment Supplies. Toys, Hobby Goods, and Games Optical Goods Sporting Goods Hardware Tools, and Plumbing and Electrical Supplies Lumber and Building Materials Paint and Sundries Cars, Trucks, and Other Powered Transportation Automotive Fuels Automotive Lubricants Pets, Pet Foods, and Pet Supplies All Other Merchandise 610,376,390 411,631 166 40,265,316 71,801,984 70,444,779 316,509,894 29,174,854 28,499 799 85,556,657 95,637,658 157,194,929 160,343,460; 51,012 852 55,553,371 70,438 982 8 6,772,697 4,185,992 27,547 124 23,207,111 33,210,809 30,850,188 0,356,770'.„, 10,111 069 29,827,579 '44,144 669 75,658,435 34. 663.855 500,546,293 316,532;670 25,483,943 5;758;893 82,640,148 192,367 946 23,634,532 24,063,789 31,533,453 50,709,976 78,395,425 28,278 929 93,237,855 88,285)46 48,488,049 46,744,047 46,065,518 48,750,428 21;610 61 20,744,143 9,902,815 8,663,513 36,653 969 35,786,221,: 8,544,437 8,160,621 51,228,332 82,357 390 268,683,695 246.466,260 218,417,465. 234,595,304 33,269,998 642,619,486 802,529,889 350,201,135 389,431,744 141,280;695 1 74,263.430 18,919,326 13,952,585 120,445,559 95.214,295 0.8 0.6 1.2 06Y 0.8 O8" 1.1 0.9 l0 1.1 1.0 r, 0.9 1.1 ]0 0.9 1.0 J 1.0 1.6 0.9 1.0 0.7 0 Buxton IDurcihi g Customers. Site Address Analysis Geography Site 1 Highway 180 Riverfront Dr. Your Community, US 76543 10 minutes Leakage /Supply Index by Major Store Type The quantitative comparison of retail leakage and surplus in twelve major store types provides an initial measure of market opportunities. Combining this analysis with the knowledge of the local retail situation will take the process of identifying retail possibilities one step further. Figure 3 provides the leakage /supply indices and following is the sales potential and actual sales for major store types. Figure 3. Leakage /Supply Index and Actual and Potential Sales by Major Store Types LeakagelSurplus Index By Store Type Motor Vehicle Parts Dealers Furniture Home furnishings Stores Electronics Appliances Stores Building taterial: Garden Equipment Supply Dealers Food &;Beverage 'Stores Health &Personal tare Stores Clothing Clothing Accessories Stores .Sporting Goods, Hobby, Book, &tluuc;Stores General t9erdlandise Stores ttiscellaneous Store Retailers Foodservic D inking Places GAF0 Total Retail Saks'(Induding food Service Drinking Places) Store Type Potential .Actual Sales. Leakage /Surplus Index Motor Vehicle Parts Dealers Furniture Home Furnishings Stores Electronics Appliances Stores Building Material Garden Equipment Supply Dealers Food Beverage Stores Health Personal Care Stores Clothing Clothing Accessories Stores Sporting Goods, Hobby, Book, Music Stores General Merchandise Stores Miscellaneous Store Retailers Drinking Places GAFO Total Retail Sales (including Food Service Drinking Places) 807,701,227 997,380,819 113,014,968 110,036,422 100,225,676 138,116,703 484,833,979 485,689,002 525,325,990• 410,418,939 229,722,636 130,354,860 297,167.930 1.38 0.78 1.42 75,174,864 128,507,512 1.71 i 526 412,306 453,320,967 0.86 106,677,891 52,012,255. 0.49 418,910,401 315,963,303 0.75 1,064,768,300 1,144,991,919 1.08 4,314,635,183 4,220,958,387 0.98 GAFO refers to discount retailers that typically include the following departments: General merchandise, Clothing and clothing accessories, Furniture and home furnishings, Electronics and appliances, Sporting goods, hobby, books and music, and Office supplies. Buxton Dentifying Customers Site Address Site l Highway 180 Riverfront Dr. Your Community, US 76543 Analysis Geography l minutes Leakage /Surplus Analysis by Sub Categories of Major Retail Types Additional leakage /surplus details are provided on subcategories of stores in each of the twelve major store types. These details can help further identity possible business expansion opportunities. Automotive Dealers Other .fiotorVehicle .Dealers Automotive Parts, Accessories, Tire Stores'. Motor:.Vehide Parts .Dealers Leakage/Surplus Index by Motor Vehicle and Part Dealers Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers Potential `r :Actual Sales Leakage /Surplus Index Automotive Dealers OtheiMotor Vehicle Dealers Automotive Parts, Accessories, Tire Stores Motor Vehicle Parts Dealers 697,066,341 45,773 787 64,861,099 807.701,227..:4 845,801,993 '5;049;7'11 116;529,116 997;380,819; 1.80 Buxton I Site Address Analysis Geography Site 1 Highway 180 Riverfront Dr. Your Community, US 76543 10 minutes Leakage/Surplus Index by Electronics and Appliance Stores Household Appliances Stoles Radio Television and Other Electronics Stores Appl lance, Television, and Other Electronics Stores tomjluter "and Software Stores:; Camera Photographic Equipment ;Stores Electronic Appliances Stores Electronics and Appliance Stores Potential`':'; Actual Sales Household Appliances Stores Radio Television and Other Electronics Stores; Appliance, Television, and Other Electronics Stores Computer and Software Stores Camera Photographic Equipment Stores Electronics Appliances Stores 17,228,055 59 948,432 77,176,486 19 190 002 3,859,187 100,225,676 15,602,026 98,043,667 36,698;401 3,374,635 138,116,703 0.91 1'.38 1.27 1:91 0.87 Buxton IDenufyint Customers. Site Address Analysis Geography Site 1 Highway 180 Riverfront Dr. Your Community, US 76543 10 minutes LeakagelSurplus Index by Furniture and Home Furnishings Stores Furniture Stores Name furnishing Stores furniture: :Nome furnishings Stores Furniture and Home Furnishings Stores Furniture Stores Home Furnishing Stores Furniture Home Furnishings Stores 61,382,555 68,914,742 51,632,413 41 121 680; 113,014,968 110,036,422 1.12 0.97 Buxu n° IDentifying Customers. Site Address Analysis Geography Site 1 Highway 180 Riverfront Dr. Your Community, US 76543 10 minutes Leal agelSurplus Index by Building Material, Garden Equipment and Supply Dealers Home:; Centers Paint and Wallpaper Stores h ardware' Store s Building t1aterials, Lumberyards Other Building Materials Dealer's Building Material &Supply Dealers Outdoor Power ;Equipment Stores tiurrkry and ;Garden :Centers Lawn and Garden Equiprnent and Supplies Stores Building tiatenal;& Garden Equipment Supply Dealers Building Materials Garden Equipment and Supply Dealers Potential `:'Actual Sales Leakage /Surplus Index Home Centers 165,452,736 169,387,832 1.02 Paint and Wallpaper Stores 11,274 882 10,986,478 Hardware Stores 33,413,475 27,385,377 0.82 Buildin g Lumberyards s„ 77,814 663 87 5 1.12 Other Buildin Materials Dealers 231,661,904 256,619,903 1.11 Building Material Supply Dealers 441,802,997 464;379,590 1.05 Outdoor Power Equipment Stores 6,671,799 4,882,566 0.73 Nurse rY and Garden Centers 36,359,183:: 16,426,846 0.45 Lawn and Garden Equipment and Supplies Stores 43,030,982 21,309,412 0.50 Building Material &Garden Equipment Supply Dealers 484,833 979;:: 485.689,002 E 1.00 Buxton IMtifyinz Customers. Site Address Analysis Geography Site 1 Highway 180 Riverfront Dr. Your Community, US 76543 10 minutes Food and Beverage Stores l.eakag Surplus Index by Food and Beverage Stores Supermari,ets old Other Grocery except Coiivenlen�� Stores Convenience. Stares GroOiyStores r Specialty Food Store' Beer, Wine, Liquor Stores Food Beverage Stores Potential Actual Sales Leakage /Surplus Index Supermarkets and Other Grocery (except Convenience) Stores Convenience Stores Grocery Stores Specialty Food Stores Beer, Wine, Liquor Stores Food Beverage Stores'; x; 453,751,177 22,706,284 476,457,461 16,662,303 32,206,225 525,325,990. 353,999,711 11,840,742!'. 365,840,453 9 518'166„; 35,060,320 10,418,939 0.78 0.77 1.09 Buxton IDentiyfns Customers. 1 Site Address Analysis Geography Site 1 Highway 180 Riverfront Dr. Your Community, US 76543 10 minutes LeakagelSurplus Index by Health and Personal Care Stores Pharmaaes Drug Stores Cosmetics, Beauty Supplies and Peitume;Stores to pticai Goods Stores OtherHealtEand Personal Care Stores Health Personal Care Stores Health and Personal Care Stores r. Potential Actual Saks Leakage /Surplus Index Pharmacies and Drug Stores Cosmetics Beauty Supplies and Perfume Stores Optical Goods Stores Other Health and Personal Care Stores Health Personal Care Stores 198,988,158 99,996,698 8,387 342 13 266121 7,276,817 7,157,270 15,070,318 9 934 771 229,722,636 130,354,860 0.50 0.98 0.57 Buxton ro.ntiy n cus.suner. Site Address Analysis Geography Site 1 Highway 180 Riverfront Dr. Your Community, US 76543 10 minutes Leakage/Surplus Index by Clothing and Clothing Accessories Stores liens Clothing Stores Womens Clothing Stores; F..: Childrens and Infants Clothing Stores Fainiiy Clothing Stores Clothing Aaessories :Stores Other Clothing Stores (lathing othn Stores.... Shoe Stares jewelry Stares`:... Luggage, Leather. Goads Stores ewelqry,:Luggage, Leather `'Goods Stores Clothing aothlna Accessories Stares Clothing and Clothing Accessories Stores Mr'~ Potential jr Actual Sales Leakage /Surplus Index Mens Clothing Stores Women Clothing Scores Childrens and Infants Clothing Stores Family Clothing Stores Clothing Accessories Stores Other Clothing Stores', Clothing Stores Shoe Stores Jewelry Stores Luggage, Leather Goods Stores Jewelry, Luggage, Leather Goods Stores Clothing Clothing Accessories Stores 9,326,544 15,599,319 1.67 37,725,313 48,845 446 10,116,354 28,065,249 2.77 79,632,650 111,667,580 3,340,356 5,540,807 1.66 876,355 12,384,779> 222,103,181 1.48 150,017,572 31,417,155 27,526,284 208,961,010 45.438 028 25,359,968 28,341,011 .7 1.12 2:166.316 1;285 710 29,626,721 1.08 297,167,930: Buxton /Dentifying Customers. Site Address Analysis Geography Site 1 Highway 180 Riverfront Dr. Your Community, US 76543 10 minutes Leakage!Surplus Index by Sporting Goods, Hobby, Book and Music Stores Sporting Goods Stores Toy Hobby, T nand Gans Stores y Sew/NeedleworkRiee Goods Stores Musical Instrument and Supplies Stores Sporting Goods Hobby, Musical Instrument Stores Book Stores Hews Dealers. and Hewsstands Book Stores and News Dealers Prerecorded Tape, Compact Disc, and Record .Stores Book, Periodical, Music Stores Sporting Goods Hobby Book,: Music Stores Sporting Goods, Hobby, Book and Music Stores WVZSIOtaa x,'0.1 Potential Actual Sales Leakage /Surplus Index 2.69 Sporting Goods Stores Hobby Toys and Games. Stores Sew/Needlework/Piece Goods Stores Musical Instrument and Supplies Sto res Sporting Goods, Hobby, u &Musical instrument Stores Book Stores News Dealers and Newsstands Book Stores "andNews Dealers Prerecorded Tape, Compact Disc, and Record Stores Book, Periodical, Music Stores Sporting Goods, Hobby, Book, Music Stores 27,145,228 .17,681,729 4,171,163 5,198,-356, 54,196,476 13,184,080 790,789 13,974,869 7,003,519 20,978,388 75,174,864 72,901,724 23 521,603;;?, 1,642,114 412,522',. 109,477,963 -14,495,8134' 750,695 15;246,579 3,782,970 -19,029,549 128,507,512 0.39 2.02 1.10? 0.95 0.54 0 91. 1.71 Buxton IDentiyirq Customers. ddr Analysis Geography Site Site 1 Highway 180 Riverfront Dr. Your Community, US 76543 10 minutes General Merchandise Stores LeakaglelSurplus by General Mechandise Stores Department Storres':exduding lead depts. Warehouse auk and Super Stores A Other General Merchandise; Stores Other General Merchandise FStores General Merchandise Stores Potential Actual Sales s' Leakage /Surplus Index Department Stores excluding leased depts. Warehouse Clubs and Super Stores All Other General Merchandise Stores Other:General Merchandise Stores General Merchandise Stores 246,721,947 172,523,683 241;246,715 206407'47f 38,443,644 74,389,812 279,690'359. 280 797'283' 526,412,306 453,320,967 0.70 1.94 0.86 Buxton IDmupny Customers. Site Address Analysis Geography Site 1 Highway 180 Riverfront Dr. Your Community, US 76543 10 minutes Leakage/Surplus.Index by Miscellaneous Store Retailers Florae Of is Supplies and Stationery Stores Gift, .::Novelty, and Souvenir Stores °trice Supplies," Stationery, Gift Stores Used ll1erthandise Stores Other Miscellaneous Store Retaaers: Miscellaneous Store ;Reta1era. Miscellaneous Store Retailers Potential Actual Sales 4,257,114 Florists Office and Stationery Stores Novelty, and Souvenir Stores Office SSupplies, Stationery Gift Stores Merchandise Stores Other Miscellaneous Store Retailers.;:, Miscellaneous Store Retailers 8,128,319 23,191 °,322 17,788,154 40,979,476' 9,281,953 "48,288,143 106,677,891 621 94 9,220,444 17,842.385+ 7,889,024 22 023 731` 52,012,255 0.52 0.85 0.49 Buxton Site `.:Address x.! Analysis Geography Site 1 Highway 180 Riverfront Dr. Your Community, US 76543 10 minutes IDentiyins Customers. Leakage!Surplus Index by Foodservice and Drinking Places Full service Restaurants� United- service Eating Pbc.s Special ,Foodservices rt DrinldnE,r PbCPS -Alo Tholic Beverages;.., Foodservice Drinking Places Foodservice and Drinking Places Potential Actual Sales Leakage /Surplus Index Full service Restaurants Limited service Eating Places <l Special Foodservices Dnnking Places -Alcoholic Beverages Foodservice Drinking Places 189,295,549 114,929,438 8,931,300 163 680,579 34,266,396 29,364,490 4170 55 7 988 79' 418,910,401 315,963,303 0.86 0.75 Buxton IDentifrine Customers. Site Address a' Analysis Geography Site 1 Highway 180 Riverfront Dr. Your Community, US 76543 10 minutes Sources and Methodology Household demand estimates are derived by combining data from the Consumer Expenditures Survey by the Bureau of Labor Statistics with current household demographic estimates from Claritas. The demand estimates only account for household expenditures. Demand is defined as the estimated dollar amount spent by a household who resides in the area of analysis for a specified retail store type or merchandise line item. Supply estimates are generated from the Census of Retail Trade, a component of the Economic Census. County level sales tax data is allocated to low levels of geography using business sales estimates, business locations and employee counts provided by Claritas' Business Facts® database: Supply includes all products sold at retail outlets in a specified area for a one -year period. Supply is defined as the estimated total retail sales for a retail store type or merchandise line item. 01 Source: Retail Market Power (Claritas). Ban iglus', Lain !nn Er nellenn:rc Mahal ail 4s`l, 811 th NUMMI al et111 vv a la WIPIIP v via vwow. WZIt t Human Rights Torch Belot April Cur 1 The Global Human Rights Torch Relay (HRTR) aims to draw attention to human rights abuses by the Chinese communist regime before the 2008 Beijing Olympics, while highlighting the persecution of Falun Gong, the most severely persecuted group in China today. As hundreds of thousands innocent Chinese citizens are held as prisoners of conscience without charge or trial, we are calling on China to improve its human rights and respect human dignity, and we urge the International Olympic Committee to keep its promises to follow the Olympic charter: "Any form of discrimination against nation or person because of race, religion, political view, gender or other reason is inconsistent with membership in the Olympic movement." The goal of the Olympics is to place .sports everywhere at the service of a harmonious development of than, with a view to encouraging the establishment of a peaceful society concerned with preservation of human dignify. HRTR was started by the Committee to Investigate the Persecution of Falun Gong http://www.cipfg.org HRTR's participants officials, Olympic athletes, individuals and organizations the world over hope this effort will help to protect the dignity of all human beings and invite you to join us. Athens, Greece Ghana Africa Napier, NZ Mumbai, India London, UK Saturday April 5 2008 San Francisco Union Square Maria Daly (650) 504 -3046 Steve Ispas (408) 489 -5752 Human!! h ho g Roma ItTorsil Human Rights Torch Relay: 150 Cities 37 Countries 6 Continents San Francisco April 5th 2008 u•<•. neudidi r ainnirrr.u. uj injH+tic .hrnen the side f!Oha 4'/ 44 x+i l i1''ArchbisIlo Desmdrid TUtu Voices of Support: Edward McMillan -Scott VP, European Union The Chinese Communist Party is using the Olym- pics to violate human rights through a crackdown on dissidents and environ- mental degradation. This goes against everything that the Olympic spirit stands for. Vaclav Havel former, President. Czech Republic "1 support the participants of the global Human Rights Torch Relay and consider their action as 0 hope for our world. The Chinese communist leadership is not meeting [their] promises...as the Olympic host... 11 is necessary to...demand they keep their promises. Hon. David Kilgour (left) former Canadian Secretary of State for Asian Affairs David Matas (right) human rights attorney We believe that there has been and continues today to be large scale organ seizures from unwilling Falun Gong practitioners." http: /www.orga nharvestinvestigation. net Organ Harvesting Kilgour and Matas' investigation (above) showed human kidneys and livers for sale in Chinese army hospitals costing $70,000 to $150,000 US dollars. It found 41,500 organs were probably taken from Falun Gong practitioners who committed no crime, but were killed so their vital organs could be sold for transplant. Now to participateP The "Goddess of Justice" carries the torch at the HRTR kick win Athens, Greece, August 9° 2007 (The Epoch Times) Oppression Outside China's Borders The Chinese Communist Party arms and funds the Darfur (western Sudan) government- supported Janjaweed militias, "devils on horseback who have forced 3.6 million Darfuris to flee their homes for crowded refugee camps where they suffer extreme deprivation, disease, and continued violent attacks. Over half the population of Darfur is victimized by this violence. The CCP also imports Chinese slave labor to factories and mines throughout Africa, anddirectly supports the dictatorships in Zimbabwe, Burma, and North Korea. RELIGIOUS PERSECUTION Increasing Cruelty and Torture The astonishing and unretouched photo was taken by a relative of the torturer on a visit to observe a typical day's work at his prison, The CCP has increased persecution against Tibetan Buddhists and [.Uighur Muslims, and since 1999 has been conducting a genocide campaign against Falun Gong. The Olympic Committee was hoping that China would improve its human rights record; instead the persecution and suffering of all spiritual believers has only increased. As the Olympics near, Christian churches are being bunted, Tibetan temples are being destroyed. and Uighurs are systematically being prevented from worshipping in their communities. Register to run in the relay, speak or join the rally and make your voice heard; Contact your elected officials and urge them to investigate the CCP's crimes against humanity; Sign up as a supporter http: /www.humanrightstorch.org /join!; Invite local groups of all kinds to support the IIRTR or join us in hosting the events: Saturday March 29'h 2008 San Jose Saturday April 5 2008 Union Square San Francisco Help with fundraising and sponsorships http:// www. humanrightstorch .orginewsidonate; Send your inquiry or suggestion to SF @HumanRightsTorchUSA.org; Contact a local HRTR. representative: Maria Daly (650) 504 -3046 Steve (spas (408) 489 -5752 Human xtgnts 1 orcn xetay u 6 nup /www.nurnanngntstorcuusa.orgi !•l Sion up for our E.Mall Newsletter GO Pnc.5cy t:■ 5 Safe Subscribe USA Contacts 1 Schedule of Events Persecuted Groups News Reports 1Voices of Support FAQ Global Weksite Multimedia What Can You Do? Sign a Petition j What is the Human Rights Torch Relay? The Human Rights Torch Relay (HRTR) is an international year -long event traveling to major cities around the world. Who Are We? The HRTR is a global project made up of nonprofit organizations, civic and professional groups, churches and individuals who are committed to universal human rights. The Coalition to Investigate the Persecution of Falun Gong (CIPFG) initiated the Human Rights Torch Relay in Athens, Greece in August 2007. Why Are We Doing This? We want to bring attention to human rights abuses in China which have increased since China was chosen as the 2008 Olympic host. We believe that the Olympic Games and crimes against humanity cannot coexist in China. We are alarmed about the widespread and severe persecution of Christians, Uyghur Muslims, Tibetan Buddhists, Falun Gong, democracy advocates journalists and lawyers. In addition to these persecutions, the Chinese Communist Party supports other totalitarian regimes in their assaults on their citizens in Burma, Darfur and North,Korea. We are calling upon China to stop all state sanctioned murder, torture, unlawful arrests and detention, and all violations of the International Human Rights Law and to release all prisoners of conscience. 1 of 1 3/3/2008 7:58 AM kQ of 1 Sign up for our E -Mail Newsletter GO I Privacy b C`YSafeSubscribel USA Contacts News Reports Voices of Support $che (1(1IQ of Event E Persecuted Groups j 0le1)01 Web -$tte [Multimedio What Can You Do? Sign a Petition Home Page http://www.humanrightstorchusa.org/FAQ.htn1 Question: Is the Human Rights Torch Relay connected affiliated with the Olympics in any way? Answer: No. The HRTR is an independent event. It is not endorsed by the International Olympic Committee or the Beijing Olympic Organizing Committee, and neither is it related to the Olympic Torch Relay. Question: In order to participate in the Human Rights Torch Relay, do I have to boycott the Olympics? Answer: No. The HRTR is open to all individuals and groups whose stance on China falls under the umbrella of "The Olympics and crimes against humanity cannot coexist in China." Question: Is the Human Rights Torch Relay against the Olympics? Answer: No, the HRTR is not against the Olympics but is opposed to having the games hosted by a country whose government has complete disregard for the basic human rights of its people. This is contrary to the Olympic spirit which honors the best in human behavior. 3/3/2008 8:05 AM Olympic Tide Turns Toward Free Speech and Human Rights By Cindy Drukier and Charlotte Cuthbertson Epoch Times Staff rince Charles has stated that he wont go to Beijing because of the occupation of Tibet. Feb 21, 2008 Mention "Beijing 2008" and for many groups the phrase is as synonymous with "human rights abuses" as it is with "Olympic Games." The two are now inextricably linked, in a way that wasn't the case six months ago. This is one victory human rights groups can claim in their Olympic campaigns. Tide Turning arlier this month, Hollywood icon Stephen Spielberg caused waves in Beijing by quitting as artistic advisor to the Olympics in )rotest over the Chinese regime's support of Sudan's genocide in Darfur. actress Uma Thurman just spoke out in praise of Spielberg's move but thinks he should have included more of the Chinese egime's abuses in his list of concerns. 'ublic pressure has forced two National Olympic Committees to back down on gagging their athletes from voicing political )pinion at the games. he Christian Union Party, junior member of the Dutch ruling coalition, is now calling for a boycott of the Olympic opening :eremony as a human rights protest, reported Reuters on Feb. 18. :ight Nobel Peace laureates, Western politicians, Olympians, and entertainers like Mia Farrow Emma Thompson, Joanna Lumley, inger Angelique Kidjo and British Playwright, Tom Stoppard sent a joint letter to Chinese party leader Hu Jintao on Feb. 12 to add pressure to the Darfur issue. :eporters Without Borders has been encouraging French and other celebrities to wear it's T -shirt campaign against the lack of Tess freedoms in China which Beijing promised would accompany the Olympics. .housands of politicians, Olympians, local celebrities, academics and human rights defenders have been joining the Global luman Rights Torch Relay, a year -long run through 37 countries across five continents calling for an end to all human abuses in hina. 1 a recent House of Lords debate, three members were highly critical of China's rights record citing that the regime has "no adition of deference to human rights." S Congressmen Adam Schiff and eight of his colleagues sent a letter to Liu Qi, Beijing Olympic Organising Committee (BOCOG) resident, expressing their deep concern "about the lack of improvement of the human rights situation in China. Despite explicit romises made by Chinese government officials in 2001, the Chinese government has not taken serious steps to expand basic ghts and freedom." U Vice President Edward McMillan Scott has been calling for nothing short of an outright boycott of the games since he )nducted his investigation into the Chinese regime's practice of harvesting organs from unwilling Falun Gong meditation ractitioners. Aost human beings recognize that China is also the world's worst tyranny. The Olympic Games offered China the chance of form but this has been replaced by a massive crackdown on all forms of dissent including religious expression," he said. Jpporters of a Global Human Rights Torch march through downtown San Diego as part of the 28th annual Martin Luther King Parade. (Wenru Yu/The Epoch Times) OC Position The contention of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), when it awarded China the honors back in 2001, was that the games would be a force of change. IOC President Jaques Rogge told BBC's Hardtalk that he was "convinced that the Olympic Games will improve human rights in China." IOC Vice- President Canadian Dick Pound said, The human rights problems remain an issue, but it is more of a challenge and an opportunity for the Olympic movement to make a contribution to some of its own goals —which is to put sport at the service of mankind everywhere and maybe bring about some change." The Olympic Charter states that sport must be "at the service of the harmonious development of man, with a view to promoting a peaceful society concerned with the preservation of human dignity." The IOC now says that there is a widespread misconception "human rights promises" were ever sought by the IOC in the first place, according to a CNN report release a year before the games. Olympic Bid Campaign Throughout the Olympic bid campaign, the international human rights community had doggedly lobbied the IOC not to reward communist China for its poor human rights record by allowing the regime to host the Olympic Games. The week prior to the final vote, the European Parliament passed a resolution saying, "China's disastrous record on human rights makes Beijing an unsuitable venue for the 2008 Olympic Games." The argument worked in 1993, when China lost the bid for the 2000 games because the Tiananmen Square Massacre was still fresh in the world's mind, but the moral indignation did not hold in 2001. kccording to Human Rights Watch, "China's aggressive campaign for those games was accompanied by tightened controls on fundamental freedoms, even as members of the International Olympic Committee and Chinese officials themselves argued that the games would be good for human rights." The Chinese Communist Party itself tacitly admitted to human rights abuses by promising to improve. "By entrusting the holding )f the Olympic Games to Beijing, you will contribute to the development of human rights," said the Chinese Olympic committee at the time. -lowever, during the final 10 months of the Olympic bid campaign, Beijing's Mayor Liu Qi told a public rally that in preparation or the bid, he would "resolutely smash and crack down on Falun Gong," and clear the city of beggars, the homeless, and xostitutes, as reported by Reuters in January 2001. _iu Qi subsequently became President of BOCOG, and by all reports, has made good on his promises. 'ar from being a positive force for change, human rights advocates claim that things have actually gotten worse in China )ecause of the Olympics. Dlympics 'Endorsing Repression' g the end of January, Belgium's Olympic committee issued a statement saying, "Not a single participant in the Games will be illowed to give a political opinion at the Olympic venues. Nor could athletes wear any distinctive insignia protesting China's iuman rights violations." h e United Kingdom and New Zealand soon followed suit, causing storms of protest in their respective countries. Britons were pick to point out the eerie similarity to 1936 when U.K. athletes were obliged to "Heil" Hitler. loth Olympic Committees have now publicly back peddled although amended clauses have yet to be made public. h e standard restriction in clause 51.3 of the Olympic Charter refers to: "No kind of demonstration or political, religious or racial )ropaganda is permitted in any Olympic sites, venues or other areas." he New Zealand agreement originally went much further stating that athletes could not "not make statements, demonstrate whether verbally, or by any act or omission) regarding political, religious or racial matters The government intervened and on Feb. 19 Sports Minister Clayton Cosgrove confirmed that the New Zealand Olympic Committee would be recommending the offending clause be brought in line with the Olympic Charter. Green Party Sports spokesperson Keith Locke, a staunch critic of the clause, was pleased with the about -face. Mr. Locke said a major reason the Olympics were awarded to Beijing was to spotlight the human rights situation, "and thus help advance the principles of freedom so central to the Olympic movement." Michael Craig, chair of the Toronto -based China Rights Network, said that muzzling athletes is "in effect, endorsing repression, endorsing human rights abuses, endorsing torture." "Because silence signifies an approval of the Chinese system," he said. Craig feels that the IOC took on an obligation in deciding to give a country like China the games, a country that promised to improve human rights in order to win the bid. "Then I think it becomes incumbent upon the IOC to have the courage to challenge...China when they don't come through on the human rights front," said Craig. They don't need to become political, but they should at least stand up for themselves." The controversies have forced other National Olympic Committees to state their positions clearly. So far, the United States, Canada, Australia, Germany, Japan, and Spain have declared that they will not restrict their athletes in any way beyond the requirements of the Olympic Charter. IOC Under Pressure to Uphold Olympic Movement The IOC has failed to take up the human rights challenge with the Chinese regime, say Olympic watchers. itudents for a Free Tibet, a worldwide organization of Tibetans and their supporters, sent an open letter to Rogge in August 2007 expressing their disappointment with the IOC. Not only has the IOC failed to secure improvements in human rights in China but it has abetted suppression of dissent by Chinese luthorities," says the letter. Olympic Watch, an international monitoring group, also sent a letter to Rogge in May 2007 calling on the IOC to "immediately cold the Beijing Organizing Committee accountable for the lack of progress on human rights since 2001, when you awarded the !008 Olympic Games to Beijing." n September 2006, a coalition of human rights organizations that includes Reporters Without Borders and Olympic Watch issued joint statement to the IOC stating that despite human rights activists' efforts, "the IOC has refused to face the reality in which 3eijing 2008 is to take place." he current IOC leadership may be "either too cynical, or too incompetent, or both, to protect the Olympic ideals and take a :tear stance on the continuing human rights abuses in China," it added. nternational human rights lawyer and co- author of reports exposing the Chinese regime's practice of organ harvesting, David Piatas, says the IOC is abdicating its authority if it leaves "a dispute between the hosting committee and the global human rights ommunity unresolved." Organ harvesting of Falun Gong practitioners in China, though happening in 2001, was not known then. Now it is known. It is iconceivable that the International Olympic Committee would have awarded the Games to China in 2001 if they accepted then hat China was killing innocents in the thousands every year in order to sell their organs for large sums to transplant tourists," katas said. Nhat needs to be done is to ask the International Olympic Committee to exercise that authority." ,dditional reporting by Joan Delaney in Victoria, Canada, Martin Croucher in London, U.K. Altman Rights Torch Relay FAQ Page 1 of 2 FAQ What is the Global Human Rights Torch Relay._? What specific issues concern the Human Rights Torch Relay? How did the torch relay start? Who can.jo nthetorchrelay? How will the torch relay work? How do I get involved? Sample Invitation Letter to VIPs etc. What is the Global Human Rights Torch Relay? [he Human Rights Torch Relay (HRTR) is an international campaign that seeks to bring an end to all human rights abuses against people in China ave been evicted from their homes to make way for commercial construction, and beaten mr killed if they protest; any meager payment offered to them is usually stolen by corrupt local officials; Millions of Chinese are sent without trial to slave labour camps, where they are tortured and forced to work long days )roducing consumer goods. Recent product recalls highlight the dangers of these goods to the public, which, for higher ,rofits, often use toxic ingredients instead of safe ones; China continues to impose forced abortion and sterilization to enforce its "One Child" policy, as per family population ;ontrol measures; China imprisons more reporters, and executes more prisoners, than any other country in the world; The Chinese regime funds and arms rogue regimes such as the Sudanese government- supported Janjaweed militia, vhich is committing genocide in Darfur where millions have been murdered and millions more displaced from their comes; Stringent Internet censorship and public surveillance, with technology supplied by western companies, enables videspread monitoring and suppression of free speech. COP Sow did the torch relay start? Che Coalition to Investigate the Persecution of Falun Gong (CIPFG), an international human rights organization, sent a etter to Chinese leaders on June 8, 2007. They requested CIPFG entry in China to investigate the persecution of Falun Song and the charges of mass, state sanctioned organ harvesting of its adherents. Not unexpectedly, there was no reply. 2IPFG believes the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has confirmed its unwillingness to be transparent and to respect human life and so the alternative torch relay for human rights was launched. COP Who can join the torch relay? X11 concerned individuals and groups are welcome to join and share their message with the world. However, the HRTR is 'ocused on human ights and is free of political messaging, such as advocating for an independent Taiwan, democracy in China, etc. Only nessages relating to human rights will be promoted by the HRTR. COP Sow will the torch relay work? ['he torch relay began in Athens, Greece on August 9, 2007 where the first flame was lit. The relay now continues across lye continents throughout the year preceding the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. Events held by participating cities around he world will include the traditional Olympics run with the symbolic torch, welcoming events with speakers, concerts, Ittp:/ /www.humanrightstorch.org /news /faq 3/3/2008 Human Rights Torch Relay FAQ Page 2 of 2 petition campaigns, displays, press conferences, and interview opportunities. Athletes who have participated in past Dlympics games will be among the torch relay ambassadors who will pass the torch from one country to another. Participating individuals and organizations will be responsible for holding a torch receiving ceremony and organizing -elated activities. We encourage all participants to proceed with plans that best fit the customs and traditions in their host :ountries and regions. [nformation and speakers will be provided to national, regional, and local governments, schools, libraries, civic and church groups, non governmental organizations (NGOs), etc., via printed material, talk shows, blogs, social networking Ind live presentations hosted by non profit groups, churches, and independent groups interested in human rights. Local :ontact persons will work with participants to determine the most appropriate events, outreach activities, and materials For their area. I'OP How do I get involved? Please check the relay route menu, where you will find the route, schedule and news for the relay in each continent, or visit the global contacts page to find a coordinator in your local area. ittp: /www.humanrightstorch.org /news /faq 3/3/2008 191lts, *Pia` 040 ss y r OuritainRigi,isra' nfri.Org Support the Human Rights Torch Relay The Human Rights Torch Relay (HRTR) is an international campaign created to draw attention to the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP's) worsening human rights violations and to press for change. The founding premise of the HRTR is: The Olyrnpic Games cannot coexist with human rights abuses, The communist regime was granted the right to host the Olympic Games after it pledged to adhere to the Olympic charter and improve its human rights record. Instead, its hurnan rights abuses have worsened. The regime continues to persecute Falun Gong practitioners. It uses Falun Gong and other prisoners of conscience as a living organ pool for its lucrative organ transplantation industry. It continues its brutal repression of Tibetan Buddhists, Christians, Uighurs, rights advocates, reporters, and defense lawyers. And it supports other totalitarian regimes in perpetrating slaughter upon their citizens —in Darfur, Burma, Zimbabwe, and North Korea. A regime responsible for such atrocities must not be rewarded the honor of hosting the Olympic Games. We sign our names to say: The Olympics and crimes against humanity cannot coexist in China. Name Address Signature The HRTR was launched by the Coalition to Investigate the Persecution of Falun Gong (CIPFG), arc international organization dedicated to investigating and ending the communist regime's eight- year -long persecution of Falun Gong practitioners and the forced harvesting of their organs. (http.ff WIINw:CIPFG.org). gn a Petition of 1 Sign up for our E -Mail Newsletter GO Prr,,•ac'•t by li (SafeSubscribe-m USA Contacts Schedule of Events j Persecuted Groups !News Reports Voices of Support 1 FAQ Home Page Globe/ Wo4sito Address What Can You Do? http://www.humanrightstorchusa.org/Petition.html I Support the Human Rights Torch Relay The Human Rights Torch Relay (HRTR) is an international campaign created to draw attention to the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP's) worsening human rights violations and to press for change. The founding premise of the HRTR is: The Olympic Games cannot coexist with human rights abuses. The communist regime was granted the right to host the Olympic Games after it pledged to adhere to the Olympic charter and improve its human rights record. Instead, its human rights abuses have worsened. The regime continues to persecute Tibetan Buddhists, Christians, Uighurs, Falun Gong practitioners, rights advocates, reporters, and defense lawyers. It uses Falun Gong and other prisoners of conscience as a living organ pool for its lucrative organ transplantation industry. It supports other totalitarian regimes in perpetrating slaughter upon their citizens —in Darfur, Burma, Zimbabwe, and North Korea. A regime responsible for such atrocities must not be rewarded the honor of hosting the Olympic Games. I sign my name to say: The Olympics and crimes against humanity cannot coexist in China. Name E -Mail Submit Query The HRTR was launched by the Coalition to Investigate the Persecution of Faun Gong (CIPFG), an international organization dedicated to investigating and ending the communist regime's eight year -long persecution of Falun Gong practitioners and the forced harvesting of their organs. (http: www.CIPFG.orq). These petitions will be sent to the Olympic Committee. Petition Form, hard copy 3/3/2008 8:07 AM oices o Support of 1 Sign up for our E -Mail Newsletter 1, Go Privacy by E t SafeSubscribe=M USA Contacts Schedule of Events Persecuted Groups News Reports FAQ Global V/ tsitQ Mtu tlufpdja Horne Page What Can You Do? Sign a Petition Dana Rohrabacher U.S. Congressman "Reports coming out of Chinese prisons say that Falun Gong prisoners, people who are pacifists, are being murdered for their organ parts which are then sold... It is time for the U.S. Congress to agree that as long as China is in Burma and Darfur, where they are behind the scenes playing a horrible role, that we join together and say we will not participate in an Olympics- hosted-by- such--a- criminal government." Edward McMillan-Scott VP, European Parliament `The Chinese Communist Party is using the Olympics to violate human rights through a crackdown on dissidents and environmental degradation. This goes against everything that the Olympic spirit stands for. http://www.humanrightstorchusa.orgNoS.html Hon. David Kilgour Fmr. Canadian Secretary of State, Asia David Matas International Human Rights Attorney We believe that there has been and continues today to be large scale organ seizures from unwilling Falun Gong practitioners." (organharvestinvestiqation.net) Vaclav Havel Fmr. President, Czech Republic "I support the participants of the Global Human Rights Torch Relay and consider their action as a hope for our world. The Chinese Communist leadership is not meeting its promise._as the Olympic host...it is necessary to...demand House Resolution 610 they keep their promise." 3/3/2008 8:07 AM haleej Times Online Amnesty accuses China of reneging on Olymp... http:// www. khaleejtimes .com/DisplayArticleNew .asp ?xfile data/sport... Amnesty accuses China of reneging on Olympic rights vow (AFP) 7 December 2007 BERLIN Amnesty International accused China on Friday of reneging on promises to improve the human rights situation in the country before hosting the 2008 Olympic Games. "In 2001, as it campaigned for the Games, China promised to move to protect human rights and to relax censorship but it has done very little to live up to those promises," said Barbara Lochbihler, the secretary general of the German chapter of Amnesty International. Calling on China to release detained human rights activists, Lochbihler said Amnesty did not expect the situation to improve but rather to deteriorate as the Games drew near. "There is a chance we will see an increase in harassment, detentions and people place under house arrest ahead of the Games," she warned. Lochbihler was speaking at the launch in Berlin of an international campaign meant to pile pressure on Beijing to respect human rights and lift restrictions on the media before the Games start on August 8 next year. A Chinese human rights lawyer, Biao Teng, said if the situation failed to improve, activists should call on governments and sports stars to boycott the Games. "We should think of calling a boycott if necessary. We should make an effort to ensure that at least the most basic human rights are respected," said Biao, who holds a temporary teaching post at Yale University in the United States. He urged Beijing to respect freedom of religion and to stop the persecution of followers of the Falun Gong faith. The lawyer also called on journalists who travel to China for the Games to use the opportunity to the full to write about the political climate in the country. Lochbihler ruled out a call by Amnesty International for a boycott of the Games, saying the watchdog would instead seek greater dialogue with the Chinese government. Df 1 3/3/2008 8:09 AM ersecuted Groups http:// www. humanrightstorchusa .org/Persecuted_Groups.html The International Community Is Affected by the Chinese Communist Persecution Campaign When Beijing was awarded the Olympics the discussion and the hope was that the Chinese Communist Government would improve their negative human rights record. Instead they have only increased human rights violations on all levels throughout Chinese society and internationally. These increasing human rights abuses are directly harming the Christians, Catholics, Uighurs, Tibetans and Falun Dafa practitioners living in China. More recently it has been revealed that the Chinese Communist Government is directly connected to the conflict and violent situations in Dafur and Burma. With the Human Right Torch Relay we hope to raise awareness of this escalation and bring attention to all those who are suffering from the abuses of the Chinese Communist Government. We hope by our actions and diligence the whole world will know how inclusive and widespread their hate campaign is against humanity. Chinese Communist Government persecution affects the following groups. Darfur Save Darfur http: /www.savedarfur.orq /content ?splash =yes Genocide in Darfur: The Chinese Connection http /jeffweintraub.blogspot.com/ 2007 /02/ genocide- in- darfur- chinese- connection.html Brookings Institute Report: http: /www.brookings.edu /opinions /2004 /0805africa cohen.aspx Aid Groups Warn Darfur UN Force Set to Fail: http://africa.reuters.com/top/news/usnBANO23392.html Burma http: /houston.indymedia.orq /archives /archive by id.php ?id= 959 &category id =1 Chinese Military, Intelligence Control Burma's Military Rulers: http: /www. east asia intel.com /eai /2007/10 03 /1.asp Uyghurs Not China's Best Week "Peking Duck" Uyghur activist asks U.S. to help stop China removals Uyghur American Association Christians in China http: /worldnetdaily.com /news /article.asp ?ARTICLE ID =39520 http://www.christiannewswire.com/news/111584759.html Catholics http:/ /www.cardinalkungfoundation.orq /articles /nyt01.htm Tibetans http: /www.savetibet.orq/ news/ positionpapers /nunpersecution.php Falun Gong http: /www.faluninfo.net Jews Must Lead Condemnation of China: http /www.israelnationalnews.com /News /News.aspx/125078 )f 1 3/3/2008 8:02 AM