We’ve got a tag sale, a treasure hunt, nearby parks both temporary and permanent, street art both controversial and not (yet), and more Maven details — all in this week’s leftovers!
*************
Today is Park(ing) Day 2011, when parking spots around the world are transformed into temporary public spaces.
In our neck of the woods you’ll find at least two participating parklets: one on Fell just west of Scott Street, sponsored by the Wigg Party, and one at 137 Scott between Haight and Waller. That one’s curated by residents Michael and Jay, who got married at their Park(ing) Day spot three years ago! Stop by and congratulate them while enjoying the refreshing lack of car-dom. Unless you’re a disgruntled driver in search of a spot, in which case, today will not be your favorite day.
*************
Yesterday, the folks at Fecal Face spotted a new wheatpaste on the side of Cafe du Soleil.
No word on who the artist is, but check out Fecal Face’s website for more pics.
*************
Speaking of street art, a minor brouhaha about Jeremy Novy’s omnipresent koi stencils erupted on the lowerhaight.org google group this week, with a debate stirring about the definitions of art and vandalism and what have you. This discussion fueled (and was fueled by) the following TV report on ABC7 that aired Wednesday, with the headline, Graffiti or art? Lower Haight at center of street art debate
So, there’s that.
*************
Yesterday, SFGate’s Inside Scoop blog featured an interview with Jay Bordeleau and David Kurtz, the duo behind upcoming RNM replacement Maven. Give it a read for some insights into what we can expect from the new restaurant, which the article says is aiming for a November opening.
*************
In local Groupon news, how would you like 50% off at Black Pancake Records, which Groupon unforgivably categorizes as Hayes Valley? Get $20 worth of records for just $10 with today’s deal, which is available through Monday and can be used through March.
*************
With the Treasure Island Music Festival just a month away, organizers are hosting their 3rd annual Treasure Hunt, scheduled to descend on the Lower Haight (as well as the Mission and North Beach), next Saturday the 24th. Get a team together and hunt for clues around the neighborhood, then meet up at a secret location for drinks, music, and prizes. Click here for info on how to sign up.
*************
Looking for a nearby nature walk? Have you considered Buena Vista Park? Despite a rash of recent crimes and a reputation as a meeting point for all sorts of unmentionable activities, the park was dubbed a “forest getaway” by the Chronicle this week. Click through to the article to learn more about the park’s history, its walking paths, and its diverse flora and fauna.
*************
Finally, tomorrow (Saturday) is the 14th Annual Friends of Duboce Park Tag Sale. Expect to find folks peddling all kinds of wares in an effort to raise money for park improvements — this year, the specific funding target is the construction of a Youth Play Area. So, swing by the park between 9am and 2pm — who knows what kind of booty you might take home. (No, not like that.)
*************
Anything we missed this week? Let us know. tips [at] haighteration {{dot}} com.

