Tuesday, November 7, 2023   

Contact: Mayor’s Press Office, mayorspressoffice@sfgov.org     

MAYOR BREED KICKS OFF SAFE SHOPPER INITIATIVE FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON IN UNION SQUARE   

The public safety initiative will focus on Union Square and other key shopping areas to support the City’s economic recovery, building on the recent expansion of organized retail theft efforts  

San Francisco, CA – Today Mayor London N. Breed joined Police Chief Bill Scott, District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, and business and community leaders to kick off the 2023 Safe Shopper initiative in and around Union Square for the holiday season. The City will again deploy additional police and community ambassadors to the area to enhance public safety and maintain a safe shopping experience for visitors, workers, and residents.   

Year to date larceny cases have dropped 10% citywide since last year, which is why the Mayor has asked SFPD and other City departments to sustain prioritization of organized retail theft disruption, focusing on key tourist areas.   

Similar to last year, the City will work with the San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) to limit points of entry in Union Square with some street closures to automobile traffic as added safety measures. In addition to a ramped-up police presence in and around Union Square, the City plans to increase patrol in parking garages by SFPD, Park Rangers, and other security personnel. More SFPD Community Ambassadors will be deployed to Union Square as part of the Safe Shopper initiative.  

“As we welcome the many events and attractions that make San Francisco a unique place to celebrate the holiday season, we have to continue to dedicate resources to ensure our residents and visitors are safe,” said Mayor London Breed. “Our public safety focus remains citywide, but we also will work to protect our businesses and create a welcoming shopping experience for everyone. This year we will also benefit from new state funding to help us address retail theft that is already yielding results.”  

This past September, Mayor Breed announced that San Francisco received $17 million in a state grant to combat organized retail theft. This includes $15 million in funding to support SFPD’s work to combat organized retail crime, which has helped to pay for overtime for SFPD officers to run targeted retail theft operations. Just yesterday, SFPD announced the arrest of four prolific organized retail theft suspects that have hit multiple locations throughout the City.   

The grant also supports the purchase and installation of 400 automated license plate readers to cover 100 intersections throughout the City. The state grant also includes $2 million for the District Attorney’s Office to fund a full time dedicated Assistant District Attorney and a full-time dedicated District Attorney Investigator to prosecute retail theft crimes in San Francisco.  

“The San Francisco Police Department will have officers out in force to ensure this holiday season is fun and safe for everyone,” said Police Chief Bill Scott. “We’re collaborating closely with our city partners so we’re able to deter crime and respond quickly when necessary. I want to thank our officers who have been working hard and will continue to keep people safe as we begin this holiday shopping season.”  

The San Francisco District Attorney’s Office is now prosecuting felony retail theft cases vertically, from charging to final disposition. The dedicated Assistant District Attorney will work closely with SFPD partners to build cases and serve as a single point of contact for witnesses, SFPD, and victims in felony cases.       

“I am proud to once again join Mayor Breed, the San Francisco Police Department and our many community and business partners to ensure a safe holiday experience for our residents, workers and visitors,” said District Attorney Brooke Jenkins. “My office will not hesitate to prosecute individuals or groups who continue to target our businesses for theft.  We take these cases seriously and will do everything in our power to ensure there is accountability.”    

For decades, Union Square has been known as an international destination for quality retail shopping, luxury hotels, world-class cultural institutions, vibrant public spaces, and exceptional dining. In addition, visitors from across the globe are drawn to the many events held in the square, including the Union Square in Bloom event in May that brings oversized floral displays to the area; American Tulip Day, which drew 35,000 visitors this year; and the Union Square in Bloom Summer Music Series, which brings as many as 1,000 people weekly. Other annual events include the Safeway Holiday Ice Rink, which kicked off earlier this month; the SFSPCA Holiday Windows at Macy’s, the Macy’s Great Tree, and the Bill Graham Menorah.  

The Union Square Alliance will once again host Winter Walk, which is making its post-pandemic return. This activation drew over 2 million attendees to the area in 2018. Outside Lands producer Another Planet Entertainment has committed to bringing free outdoor concerts to downtown public spaces, including Union Square, for three consecutive years starting in 2024.   

Aside from the annual events and new activations, the City has prioritized security in the area through public safety investments at the square and its underground garage, including improved lighting, increased police patrols, park ranger outreach, and additional ambassadors to oversee additional security tasks, janitorial duties, and customer service.  

“San Francisco’s Union Square holds a special place in the hearts of San Franciscans, Bay Area residents, and visitors, especially during the holiday season,” said Marisa Rodriguez, Chief Executive Officer of the Union Square Alliance. “We want to thank our Mayor London Breed, Police Chief Scott, District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, and our City leaders for guaranteeing a secure and hospitable holiday experience that everyone can enjoy freely.”  

Following the 2021 mass organized retail theft incident in Union Square that brought felony charges to multiple people, Mayor Breed announced the Safe Shopper initiative in tandem with the SFPD’s rollout of the Community Ambassador program, which is comprised of civilian retired police officers hired for their training and experience in community engagement.  

Last month, Mayor Breed and the SFPD announced plans to expand San Francisco’s Reserve Police Officer Program, which would result in an expedited increase in foot patrols citywide. This will require legislation to be approved by the Board of Supervisors.  

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Media Contacts: 
Mayor’s Office of Communications / mayorspressoffice@sfgov.org
Union Square: David Perry / news@davidperry.com / (415) 676-7007

WHAT:
Mayor London N. Breed will join Police Chief Bill Scott, District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, City leaders, business and community leaders to announce the kickoff for the 2023 Safe Shopping Initiative in and around the Union Square area for the upcoming holiday season

The City will again deploy additional police and community ambassadors to the area to enhance public safety and maintain a safe shopping experience for visitors, workers, and residents.

WHEN:
Tuesday, November 7:
11am
Union Square Plaza
Powell Street
(between Post and Geary Street)

The press event will take place in the lower plaza area in front of the Macy’s Holiday Tree. Media should plan to arrive by 10:45 A.M.

Note: Mayor’s schedule is subject to change.

For more information on APEC, download the a PDF of the flyer ar the link below. 

https://mcusercontent.com/2bf1f68595f7fd5371df645be/files/4b77063b-b8f5-1019-7362-9a07df719368/Final_APEC_City_Info_Flier_Final.pdf

A Message from the Union Square Alliance RE APEC Safety

San Francisco is eagerly anticipating the upcoming APEC event, which is expected to bring together around 20,000 attendees, including government officials, members of the press, representatives from the private sector, and the general public, hailing from 21 APEC economies. This significant gathering is scheduled to take place from November 11th to the 18th, and we’re looking forward to an outstanding event.

Although these events can present substantial opportunities for our city, they can also, at times, result in organized protests. We want to bring your attention to the likelihood of organized protests, in and around Union Square, during the week of APEC. The Alliance acknowledges and respects the right to peaceful protest. That said, we must prioritize the safety of our community in the event that things take a unexpected turn. The Alliance will share the information it receives through this channel, but it is crucial that we are all prepared for contingencies. We encourage you to remain vigilant and proactive. If you notice anything unusual, please do not hesitate to report it. 

In preparation for any unexpected emergencies, we strongly recommend taking necessary precautions, such as ensuring that you have access to plywood and physical barriers to protect your storefronts and merchandise, in the event that it is needed during APEC week. It is essential to have experienced professionals skilled in plywood installation available. If you require storage space for plywood, don’t hesitate to contact the Alliance; we have secured temporary storage options with a local retailer.

At present, there is no specific indication for the need to board up your property. This precautionary measure is intended to ensure your readiness for potential challenges, enabling you to promptly access the required materials if advised by the SFPD or other authorized law enforcement officials.

We want the community to be as prepared as possible in the event of any unforeseen circumstances, therefore it is important to establish and maintain an open channel of communication with as many sources as possible, including your loss prevention and security personnel. Please make sure you stay in regular contact with these individuals to ensure that, in the event of a credible threat, you can react swiftly and respond accordingly.

Furthermore, we strongly recommend that you confirm the functionality of your security cameras to help ensure the safety of both the community and the protesters. In the event of an emergency, please dial 911 immediately. If you observe or hear anything that necessitates attention, please contact our Member Services team at 415.781.4456. We will continue to provide updates as we receive them. 

Let’s work together to overcome challenges and ensure a spectacular APEC event, allowing the beauty of our Square to shine.

Monday, November 6, 2023 

Contact: Mayor’s Press Office, mayorspressoffice@sfgov.org 

SAN FRANCISCO INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL RETURNING TO PREPANDEMIC LEVELS 

In August of this year, SFO reached up to 97% of international travel as compared to pre-pandemic levels driven by connections with the United Kingdom, Europe, and India 

With anticipated return of key Chinese carriers this month, SFO will be back to pre-pandemic level number of flights 

San Francisco, CA – The City’s recovery efforts show significant growth for international travel into San Francisco as service continues to expand. This year, the San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has reached up to 97% of international travel as compared to 2019 levels prior to the pandemic. By the end of the year, with return of key Chinese carriers and the expansion of new carriers elsewhere, San Francisco will exceed the number of international flights pre-pandemic.  

San Francisco’s international travel recovery has been driven by the United Kingdom, Europe and India, while Mexico and Canada remain the city’s largest international visitor source markets. For example, SFO has more flights to India than all other major west coast cities combined with 17 nonstops to India per week, and an 18^th flight coming soon.  While China has been slower to recover when it comes to international travel, key flights are returning this month to SFO. 

“San Francisco is open for business and travel, and we are thrilled to see our international travel demand not only return, but continue to increase at this pace,” said Mayor London N. Breed. “With the coming of APEC, we know the eyes of the world will be on San Francisco. Our City is a world-class destination and with these new air carriers, we can now welcome even more people to experience San Francisco This is a great moment for our airport, our City, and our economy.” 

In March of 2022, Mayor Breed visited London, Brussels, Frankfurt, and Paris, where she met with airlines, airports, and local leaders to both continue and expand partnerships to reestablish San Francisco International Airport (SFO) as the international gateway to California and a hub for European markets, and to bring tourists back to San Francisco.  

That trip has helped support San Francisco’s international travel recovery, including for example securing a new airline which services direct routes from London to San Francisco.   

Key Airline Recovery Info: 

• During the pandemic, SFO successfully introduced seven new airlines for travelers: Air Transat, Breeze, Flair, ITA, Qatar, Vietnam, and ZIPAIR already launched flights at SFO.  
• With the anticipated return in November of Chinese carriers, to include Air China, China Eastern, and China Southern, SFO will be back to 43 total international flights, fully back to pre-pandemic levels.  
• San Francisco has two more international airlines on the way, with Starlux and Porter planned for December and January launch dates respectively. 

Last week, the first airline based in China returned to SFO after an absence of more than 3 years. Air China, the flag carrier of China, restored nonstop flights to Beijing. On November 11^th, China Southern will resume nonstop flights to Wuhan, followed by China Eastern to Shanghai on November 29^th. 

“Attracting new airlines and new destinations to SFO has been such an important part of our post-pandemic recovery,” said Ivar C. Satero, SFO Airport Director. “Reaching this level of international passenger activity demonstrates that San Francisco continues to be a compelling destination for new and existing airlines. My thanks go out to the entire Airport team for this achievement.” 

Nearly two million international visitors—a key segment of San Francisco’s tourism industry due to their longer length of stay and higher spending—are projected to spend $4.2 billion this year, and international overnight visitation is expected to grow 14.6% compared to 2022.  

San Francisco is at a key moment for international travel with the arrival of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in two weeks. The 21 APEC Member Economies account for nearly 40 percent of the global population and nearly 50 percent of global trade.  APEC’s themes this year are sustainability, inclusivity, innovation and resilience.   

APEC will be the largest convening of world leaders in San Francisco since the UN Charter was signed in 1945 during the UN Conference on International Organization, also called the San Francisco Conference. 

“International travel is a vital part of San Francisco’s tourism industry,” said Joe D’Allesandro. “The addition of new airline routes and increased number of international flights, especially those catering to Asian travelers, is a huge step forward in our path to recovery. This milestone demonstrates our city’s resilience and is a clear indication that San Francisco remains a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.” 

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*SHINE BRIGHT THIS HOLIDAY SEASON*
AT THE WESTIN ST. FRANCIS

Click Here for Holiday Images 

SAN FRANCISCO, CA – OCTOBER 30, 2023 – The Westin St. Francis is where the holiday season truly comes alive! With the magnificent Sugar Castle, delightful breakfasts with Santa, and joyful toasts at POP! Lounge, it becomes the ideal destination for a festive overnight escape. The beloved Sweet Boutique will brim with delectable treats, complemented by traditional and family-friendly tea services that enable guests to craft cherished moments with loved ones. All of these delights, along with the glittering holiday decorations and enticing hotel packages, create the perfect seasonal getaway in San Francisco. Situated in the heart of Union Square, the hotel provides easy access to shopping, historic cable car rides, and the Safeway Holiday Ice Rink, making it an exceptional destination to shine bright this holiday.

Below is the array of festivities to enjoy at The Westin St. Francis this holiday season. For more information and reservations, click here. 

– HOLIDAY PACKAGES –

Grateful Getaway Package

Guests can indulge in a memorable Thanksgiving experience with an exclusive package that includes a sumptuous Thanksgiving brunch for two, complimentary Wi-Fi, and the luxury of a 3pm late checkout. Rates start at $279, excluding tax and based upon availability. Valid for stays November 23-25, 2023. This exclusive offer is available through November 22, 2023. For reservations call (415) 397-7000 or click here. 

Macy’s Shopping Package 

The Macy’s Shopping Package offers guests a seamless combination of retail therapy and relaxation during their stay. They can enjoy a day of shopping at the west coast’s largest Macy’s, conveniently located adjacent to the hotel, and then return to their room to unwind in opulent comfort. This package includes a one-night stay, a $100 gift certificate to Macy’s, and complimentary Wi-Fi access. Rates start at $279, excluding tax and based upon availability. Valid for stays November 25, 2023 – January 6, 2024. Offer available through January 4, 2024. For reservations call (415) 397-7000 or click here. 

– HOLIDAY EVENTS – 

Sugar Castle

November 22 – January 2

Castle Unveiling on November 22 at 11 am

The grand Sugar Castle in San Francisco, a creation by Executive Pastry Chef Jean-Francois Houdré, and his team, is set to be revealed in the Landmark Lobby on Wednesday, November 22. This awe-inspiring, 12-feet-tall revolving work of art, which was originally conceptualized in 2005, becomes even more expansive and captivating with each passing year. This year, visitors will enjoy the unique opportunity to see the “inside” the castle through an innovative augmented reality experience.

Resembling a French Chateau inspired by Chef Houdre’s hometown of Bordeaux, the castle boasts an impressive weight of over 1200 pounds, adorned with over 20 grand circular towers, approximately 30 rooms, illuminated windows, and is surrounded by a charming village and a running train. In a delightful twist this year, a replica of the hotel’s mascot, Francis the dog, will be playfully exploring the castle. Those fortunate enough to spot him will be rewarded with a special prize at the concierge desk. Children will also have the chance to send Santa their heartfelt letters in a designated area, where they can craft their notes and send them on their way to the North Pole. The public is invited to the grand unveiling on Nov. 22 at 11 am. Complimentary hot chocolate and small treats will be served. 

POP! Lounge  

November 24 – December 31 

1-7 pm on Fridays and Saturdays; 12-6 pm on Sundays

Those seeking a luxurious respite from Union Square shopping can toast to the holidays at POP! Lounge, a glamorous pop-up champagne bar tucked away just off the Landmark Lobby. This sophisticated space is the perfect spot to enjoy a view of the Macy’s Holiday Tree, the ice rink, and the iconic cable cars going by. The menu features Moet and Chandon champagne, beer, non-alcoholic drinks, California Caviar, and small bites available for purchase. Guests can order at the bar and then settle into one of the cozy communal areas or social tables. 

Sweet Boutique 

November 25 – December 17

Saturdays & Sundays from 11 am – 4 pm 

Visions of sugarplums will come to life when The Westin St. Francis opens its delicious Sweet Boutique for the holiday season. Nestled in the Landmark Lobby, Executive Pastry Chef Jean-Francois Houdré and his talented team will delight sweet aficionados with a delectable array of freshly baked decorative cookies, orange-infused shortbread, gingerbread men, holiday Parisian macarons, and a host of other delectable treats for purchase. And for those eager to take home a piece of the magic, gingerbread “Castle Bites” inspired by the sugar castle will be available. 

Choir Performance

Saturday, Dec 16

2:30-3 pm 

Get into the holiday spirit with a special concert from the Castro Valley High School choir. Families and friends can gather to hear melodious tunes to truly celebrate the season. Free and open to the public. 

– HOLIDAY MEALS & TEAS –

Thanksgiving Brunch

November 23

Seating available at 12 pm and 1:30 pm

This Thanksgiving loved ones can gather for a delectable buffet, creating an ideal ambiance for relaxation and savoring a culinary feast together. The opulent spread features an array of local meats and cheeses, seasonal salads, and a made-to-order omelet station. Enjoy herb butter-infused roasted turkey accompanied by beloved holiday classics like stuffing and cranberry sauce, harissa-spiced NY strip paired with sweet potato gratinée and luscious butternut squash ravioli in a sage cream sauce. Seafood enthusiasts will relish the options of succulent jumbo tiger prawns and smoked salmon. To top it off, guests can treat themselves to an assortment of dim sum and Vietnamese spring rolls. After this lavish meal, a dessert buffet awaits, showcasing delectable treats such as apple bourbon pie, pecan tart, orange cranberry cheesecake, and more. Cost: $120 Adults; $55 Children 12 and under (free for ages under three), excluding tax and gratuity. Click here for reservations. Please call (415) 774-0264 for parties of five people or more.

St. Francis Holiday Tea

December 2 & 3

Seating available at 1:30 pm

The elegant St. Francis Holiday Tea includes a choice of fine artisan teas from Mighty Leaf or Red Blossom Tea Company accompanied by a selection of tea sandwiches, assorted petit fours, and freshly baked scones with seasonal berries, Devonshire-blend cream, and preserves. Guests may also choose the Complete Tea or the Royal Tea which also includes a glass of Gloria Ferrer Sparkling Brut. Prices start at $85 for adults; $55 for children 12 and under (free for ages under three), excluding tax and gratuity. Click here for reservations.  

Breakfast with Santa

December 9 & 10  

9 am-12 pm

Bring the whole family for a special visit with Santa overlooking the city skyline of San Francisco. Enjoy keepsake photos with St. Nick, a delicious breakfast buffet (mimosas included for adults), and making a holiday-themed craft with Messy Art Lab. $95 for adults and $70 for children. Click here for reservations.  

Dollie + Me Holiday Tea

December 16 & 17 

12-2 pm

Get all “dolled” up this holiday season & join Kit & Sis™ for a mother-daughter afternoon of tea, crafting, and fa-la-la-la fun!This special experience includes a lively holiday dollie crafting event accompanied by assorted teas, hot chocolate, sweet treats, and tea sandwiches (plus a glass of champagne for adults). Recommended for children ages 4+. Children must bring their own doll or stuffed animal. $95 per person. Click here for reservations.  

Christmas Brunch

December 25

Seatings available at 12 pm and 1:30 pm

Celebrate Christmas at the Westin St. Francis with a brunch buffet promising a scrumptious feast and decadent desserts. The meal commences with a delectable selection of salads, meats, and cheeses, followed a made-to-order omelet station. The main courses include brown sugar mustard glazed bone-in spiral ham, herbs & butter roasted prime rib, and butternut squash ravioli, along with a delectable assortment of dim sum, tiger prawns, and smoked salmon. The celebration is not complete without a visit to the dessert buffet, where guests can indulge in delights such as the orange cranberry cheesecake, honey roasted pecan tart, hazelnut cream puff, and so much more. Cost: $120 Adults; $55 Children 12 and under (free for ages under three), excluding tax and gratuity. Click here for reservations. Please call (415) 774-0264 for parties of five people or more.

About The Westin St. Francis

A stimulating fusion of current and classic San Francisco, The Westin St. Francis offers a timeless respite for the modern guest. Stunning original architecture dating back to 1904 is seamlessly blended with contemporary design and state-of-the-art technology throughout the 1,189 guestrooms and suites and 56,000 square feet of meeting space. Special amenities include the expansive 6,000 square feet Westin WORKOUT® Fitness Studio, The Oak Room Restaurant, Café Rito, Michael Mina’s cocktail lounge CLOCK BAR, and Chateau Montelena Tasting Room. Evoking the perfect sense of place, The Westin St. Francis is the only hotel located directly on Union Square, a bustling metropolis with world-class shopping and restaurants, performing arts, and historic cable cars stopping at the front door. Guests can easily walk to popular neighborhoods such as Chinatown and North Beach. The hotel is conveniently located within walking distance to the Moscone Convention Center and 13 miles from the San Francisco International Airport (SFO). For more information and reservations, call (415) 397-7000, toll free (888) 627-8546, or visit www.westinstfrancis.com. Stay connected on Twitter & Instagram at @WestinStFr and facebook.com/WestinSF.

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