THIS WEEK AT THE VOICE FOR THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2025
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by Mike Ege
Editor in Chief, The Voice of San Francisco
In addition to our own observations on the historic (and in many ways, tragic) recall of District 4 Supervisor Joel Engardio, it seems like almost every media and opinion outlet in the city, and even beyond, has had something to say in the last two days.
Politico identifies fissures between transit- and bicycle-boosting urbanists and other centrists as playing a major role in political missteps that led to the recall and assesses further recriminations that could happen if the city’s mods don’t come to Jesus and keep their eyes on the prize.
At the Standard, Adam Lashinsky’s take on the recall is a full-throated defense of Engardio and his quixotic quest to turn the Great Highway into an adult playpen at the expense of district residents. He alleges that it was Democratic activists, along with Mayor Daniel Lurie, who betrayed Engardio. It’s an imaginative take at least.
Only somewhat more imaginative is the take by defeated Supervisor Dean Preston over at 48Hills, who argues that Engardio’s defenestration represents a rejection of conservative politics, despite conservative homeowners and even Republicans rallying around the recall.
Meanwhile, as the chattering class uses Engardio and his folly as a Rorschach test, the outgoing supervisor should probably take a long time out for reflection. He turned 54 yesterday, so he has time left for a second act.
Check out links to our latest content below, or just bookmark our homepage to see the latest.
Top News
POLITICS
Engardio reaped a whirlwind of his own making
With an ally like this, who needs enemies?
by Mike Ege
Absolutely no one was shocked Tuesday night when early returns in the District 4 recall election sealed the political fate of District 4 Supervisor Joel Engardio. Almost 65 percent of those early returns voted to recall him. Early ballots from every single precinct in the district overwhelmingly supported the recall.
REYNOLDS RAP
How San Jose is tackling homelessness, and why keeping promises to neighbors is key
Despite its large population, San Jose functions better than other nearby cities, including the crown jewel San Francisco, where the rampant public drug use and homelessness continue to tarnish its shine.
by Susan Dyer Reynolds
DOWNTOWN RECOVERY
San Francisco through the eyes of a visitor
On Monday, Sept. 8, Clipper Card in hand, I rode all the cable car lines back and forth. I took so many trips that my card sputtered, and the last few rides couldn’t be logged.
If I were a tourist, what would be my impression of San Francisco? Read on.
by Erica Sandberg
Quote of the week
“I think about it like this: When a ship is sinking, you don’t start building a brand-new ship — first you get the passengers into lifeboats. People are drowning outside every day — in addiction, in hopelessness, in unsafe conditions. Shelter is the lifeboat that will save them today.”
— San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, on his city’s response to street encampments, in “How San Jose is tackling homelessness, and why keeping promises to neighbors is key “
Nomi toon
In Case You Missed It
TRANSIT
Supervisors approve new traffic safety plan with deadlines for departments
The Street Safety Act sets deadlines for agencies to curb traffic deaths after Vision Zero failed.
by Mike Ege
HOUSING
Restoring public safety through mandated healing
These tragedies resonated deeply for me because my kids take public transportation regularly, and I also had an uncle who suffered from schizophrenia.
by Liz Le
A&E
Flower Piano Celebrates its 10th Anniversary
Flower Piano echoes the spirit of La Fête de la Musique, a global music day championed by UNESCO, where amateurs and professionals alike fill public spaces with song.
by Liz Le
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EVENTS
Out and about Sept. 18–24, 2025
What to do this weekend and beyond.
By Lynette Majer
Managing Editor, The Voice of San Francisco
We’re heading into the last weekend of summer, and while there are some outdoor events (including the last weekend of Flower Piano), you can also head inside for some dance, theater, art, and more. Read on for my picks.
Thursday, Sept. 18
Alonso King’s internationally acclaimed ballet, Deep River, “fuses dance with Black spirituals and Jewish liturgical music in a powerful reflection on love, resilience, and the strength of the human spirit,” which had me right there. It’s also “been praised for its beauty, emotional depth, and spiritual force … [with] soaring vocals … and an evocative score.” Sounds like a not-to-miss. Through Sunday, with additional performances due to popular demand on Nov. 1. Tickets from $42
Friday, Sept. 19
Don’t miss the 74th annual Greek Food Festival for your favorite spanakopita, moussaka, gyros, and more, including desserts and wine (for purchase). Browse a variety of vendors, and enjoy traditional award-winning folk dance groups and classic Greek music. 11 a.m. through Sunday. Free.
Time to grab your lederhosen and dirndls for the big Oktoberfest on Front block party. Expect lots of bier, Bierstiefel, pretzels (real and inflatable), bratwurst, sauerkraut, live music, games, and lots of people. 2–10 p.m. Free.
Saturday, Sept. 20
Have you been to Flower Piano yet? If not, you have two more chances (today and Sunday). Today’s Flower Piano Lounge entertainment (The Kevin Gerzevitz Trio, Kash Killion, Killion’s Trillions, and Lavay Smith and the Red Hot Skillet Lickers) is from noon to 7:30 p.m. Free (Flower Piano for San Francisco residents; others from $7; (Flower Piano Lounge). $50
While Muni’s summer vintage streetcar service is happening until mid-October, there’s even more Muni this weekend at the Muni Heritage Weekend, with two Blackpool Boat Trams (1934), Muni No. 1 (1912), the “Dinky” streetcar (1896), joined by some vintage buses and cable cars. Round-trip rides will depart from the Market Street Railway Museum, where there will be interactive exhibits, family-friendly activities, and hands-on experiences. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free.
Listen to our podcasts
- The impact of the recall has just begun to be felt and will be clear in the days ahead
- Engardio is out, Lurie is on the spot and U.C. Berkley professors show courage
- Today is election day in District 4, a meeting in the Sunset may be an indication of things to come and the challenges facing Daniel Lurie
- The District 4 recall is tomorrow and the implications are great, we have fewer children in S.F. and U.C. is turning over names to the Justice Department.
- Plus more (and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music/Audible or everywhere else you get your favorite podcasts)
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