Greetings From San Francisco

I find myself here in San Francisco for the JavaONE conference which is one of the biggest events of the year in my industry. There are thousands of nerdy developers here at the Moscone Center trading stories and carrying bags full of trinkets given away by vendors.
San Francisco is a great place to visit. The city center is really lively and one can walk everywhere. The city is built on a series of hills so sometimes you find yourself walking seemingly straight up. I’m struck by the number of homeless people. They seem to be everywhere and they’re extremely tan and dirty. They stake out their territory, so almost every corner has its cup-holding change requestor.
Doing some early morning runs here has been beautiful. On Sunday morning I did a great 9 mile loop and saw the camera crews setting up for the Gay Pride Parade. I caught part of the spectacle later that day and took some photos. Not sure if I’ll have to put parental controls on this site before I post them.
The restaurants have been phenominal. I’ve had two extraordinary meals so far. I’ll try to post some reviews when I get a chance.
If you like sushi, you will love Ozuma on Steuart Street. Zagat claims the prices are “totally Tokyo”. The sake was flowing so we didn’t notice.
Also, I’ve never really had Hawain food but loved Roy’s on Mission. Rumor has it there is a Roy’s on State St. in Chicago. You’ll definately find me there in October.

July 5th, 2004 at 9:20 pm
Hi Gary
Uncle John and I were in San Francisco about two summers ago on a business trip. We loved it!!! I know what you mean about the street people. I found them very interesting !!
We thought it was a beautiful city. We stayed at fishermans wharf. I went into town on the trolly for Conference and uncle John went sight seeing. When he was on one of the trollys some street people tried to pick his pocket. He was getting off the trolly and he could feel the man try to take his wallet. So Uncle John just sat down on a step. Ever try to get a wallet out of the back pocket of a 240 lb Hungarian. LOL LOL LOL Well we laugh about it now but we would have been up a creek if they would have been sucessful.
I really enjoy your sight. You are so smart and a very good writer.
July 6th, 2004 at 9:30 am
Yes! I think pickpockets might have an easier time with someone else.
Unfortunately, I did not have much time to sightsee this time. On past trips, I was able to visit Fisherman’s Wharf and even take the boat out to Alcatraz, which was fantastic.