altadenablog

Council expresses concerns about Rubio Canon Water's well drilling project

The Altadena Town Council expressed some concerns at Tuesday night's l meeting about the noise from a well drilling operation sought by a local water company.


Rubio Cañon Land & Water Assn. president Janet Fahey said that the water company is looking to drill a new, 300-ft. well in a parking lot owned by them at 3371 Rubio Canon Road, near the Rubio Wash just north of Loma Alta Drive.

The new well is to replace the existing 120 ft. well at the site, which was hand-dug over 100 years ago and is in poor condition, Fahey said.

The project came before the town council's Land Use Committee, where the members expressed concerns about the noise such drilling would create, according to councilman Gino Sund. 

Fahey said that, normally, drilling is a 24 hour a day process; however, the drilling contractor, Layne Christensen, has a process to limit drilling to 12 hours a day, from 7 AM to 7 PM, five days a week.  In addition, the drillers will put up a noise abatement structure to offset the noise to the equivalent of a conversation, Fahey said.

The process will probably be in two phases, Fahey said: digging a test drill to see if it wold be worthwhile to do a full well, followed by a full drill.  Fahey said it would take ten days, although it was unclear if this would be for the main well or also include the test drill.

If the county approves the drilling -- there's a hearing scheduled for Aug. 2 -- the county will notify homeowners within 1,000 feet of the operation.

Altadena Town Council: the rundown

Odds and ends of other Town Council actions Tuesday night:

• Sheriff Detective Greg Kaplan gave a report on the June 11 survey of three Altadena neighborhoods. Kaplan said that of 310 homes in the survey area, 150 were completed.  The majority felt their neighborhood was safe after dark (19.6 percent "very safe," 32.1 percent "safe"), with 30.1 saying "somewhat safe, 8.4 percent "unsafe," and 9.8 percent "very unsafe."
  
  28.7 percent of those surveyed felt that theft was the greatest criminal activity concern of the neighborhood, with 25.2 percent saying narcotics, and 19.9 percent gang activity.
  
  The biggest perceived nuisance was traffic (42.5 percent) followed by transients (21.2), loud parites (18.6) and junk cars (10.6).
• Capt. Steven Strull was introduced as the new commander of the Altadena CHP station.
• Penny Daniels of the Parks and Recreation Dept. said that the summer programs are taking care of 115 kids ages 3-13 on a daily basis, the Loma Alta pool is opened seven days a week, and the parks' free lunch programs are also being kept busy.
• The council decided to appoint a three member committee to look at "Welcome to Altadena" signs.  The county has said it will place three monument-type signs at entrances to town.  The council's committee is charged with looking at the signs, ensuring that they are consistent in look, and that they refer only to Altadena and have no other signage attached.  This effectively puts the kibosh on the proposal to have a "Welcome to Altadena" sign share space with a tribute to 9/11 sign floated at last month's council meeting. Gino Sund was appointed to the committee, with two others to be named later.

Shakespeare by the Sea (in Farnsworth Park) this Sun.

San Pedro troupe brings the Bard to Altadena  and elsewhere this summer

by Sean Fitz-Gerald

This Sunday, there'll be something new at Farnsworth Park Amphitheater, as it brings a bit of the Bard to the Altadena summer.

Pictured: Lear (David Graham) and Cordelia (Katie Pelensky) in Shakespeare by the Sea's "Tragedy of King Lear."

Farnsworth Park will host Shakespeare by the Sea, (SBTS) a nonprofit organization that puts on free performances of Shakespeare’s timeless tales. This Sunday at 7 PM, SBTS will present their abridged, two-hour version of the "Tragedy of King Lear."

The San Pedro-based Shakespeare by the Sea is currently on its 14th season, says artistic director and founder Lisa Coffi.  For those who haven’t heard of the organization before, and are wondering what the buzz is about, Coffi says,  “It is kind of like either going to the Hollywood Bowl or the Gibson Amphitheatre, where you are welcome to bring your own picnic baskets and blankets. It’s a good darn time. It’s real family friendly,” Coffi said.

Living with -- and complaining about -- coyotes at the Town Council meeting

Altadena may not have a coyote problem, but some people seem to be encouraging them.

That was the message from Ellen Walton, an enforcement officer with the county Agricultural Commissioner/Weights and Measures,  who gave a short presentation about coyote control during public comments at the Altadena Town Council Tuesday night.

(Yes, counterintuitively, enforcing problem coyotes is the responsibility of Weights and Measures.)

Walton said that there are coyotes ... and there are Problem Coyotes.  Part of the problem for enforcement is: are the coyotes behaving normally, or are they problems -- do they keep returning to the same place?

Now that the pups are four or five months old, Walton said, "food needs have gone up for Mama ... when they're showing up every Wednesday for trash day, then we have a problem."

If there is a problem with a coyote that will not leave your yard, or is stalking you, or doesn't want to run and hide, that may be a problem coyote that will have to be dealt with.

Walton said that residents can take certain measures to keep from being an attractive target for coyotes -- keeping pets indoors, putting trash out the morning of pickup rather than the night before, etc. But she said some people are creating coyote problems for themselves and their neighbors.

"Stop feeding them and giving them something to drink," Walton said.  "Someone is feeding them on Chaney Trail.  Someone on Mendocino says she's feeding the coyotes because she feels sorry for them."

In many places, feeding coyotes is illegal.

Weights & Measures coyote website it here:
http://acwm.lacounty.gov/scripts/coyo.htm

The state Dept. of Fish and Game has a pamphlet on coyote control at
 http://www.dfg.ca.gov/keepmewild/docs/coyotebrochure.pdf

The website is http://www.dfg.ca.gov/keepmewild/coyote.html

The local number to call for coyote threats is (626) 575-5462.

County contracts for firefighting superscoopers

Release from office of Michael D. Antonovich

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

To prepare for the 2011 fire season, County Mayor Michael D. Antonovich announced that the Board of Supervisors authorized a contract to lease two CL-415 SuperScoopers fire-fighting aircraft from the Government of Quebec for use by the Los Angeles County Fire Department.

“To ensure our County Fire Department has the tools they need to be fully prepared for fire season, these vital aircraft have been requested to supplement the Department’s water-dropping helicopters and other fire-suppression machinery,” said Antonovich.

SuperScoopers are a fixed-wing aircraft that can carry up to 1,620 gallons of water and takes only 12 seconds to scoop water from a lake and inject it with fire-resistant foam – a combination up to 3 times more effective than water alone. They can be airborne in as little as five minutes and fly three hours before refueling. The SuperScoopers are expected to arrive on Monday, September 1, 2011, and will be placed into service through November 31, 2011.

Craftsman (and more!) yard sale Sat.

Karen TenEyck gave us the following, and it sounds like fun (or like there was an explosion in the Gamble house ...)

Kate Sullivan & Karen TenEyck are having a huge sidewalk sale with many QUALITY items. This is NOT a bunch of junk! There is a partial list of items below. We are both needing to unload some things. Yes, we COULD open a store but we can’t afford the rent!

2487 Highland Ave. (between Mendocino and Altadena Dr.)
Altadena, CA 91001
323-377-9184

Sat. July 23 and Sun. July 24
8 AM – 4 PM

Craftsman hardware
Stickley chaise
Charles Stickley chair
Anita Munmun giclee, framed
Vintage hand colored photos of California
Craftsman style cabinet with light
Vintage craftsman desk or sideboard with drawer, great hardware
Caledonia Craftsman coffee table, great smaller custom size
Depression glass dinner set, lots of pieces, dessert cups, divided plates, etc.
Russian handpainted party tray
Andalusian marketry tray
Craftsman Limbert-style tables, 2 almost matching
Hand embroidered Craftsman style pillows
Vintage Hand embroidered Craftsman style runners & pillows
Art Pottery
Plein Air Paintings
Vintage Craftsman appropriate bolt of fabric plus others
Room Air conditioner
Vintage Art Nouveau desk set
Vintage English stained glass
Many craftsman books
Sm. English chest. Great by the fireplace
Majolica pots
Vintage Tabletop Craftsman bookshelf
Art Nouveau binding books, name here
Art and travel picture books
Pair Liberty Art Nouveau boudoir chairs
Vintage Tiki Magazine Rack
Lots of garden pots and accessories
Mexican tablecloths and trays
Vintage tablecloths, esp. yellow and white
Japanese obi and kimonos
Pinecone candelabra
Unused sm. photo printer
Pasadena & Bungalow vintage postcard book
5 Vintage Art Nouveau 2 ¼” fitter shades
Vintage Radio
Vintage-look radio CD player
Sm Sony TV- great for security monitor (color)
Office Supplies
Country style beveled mirror
Bradley and Hubbard vintage lamp with orig glass, no damage
Bear statue for business cards, cute!
Japanese wooden screen-great for fireplace or window
Tiffany-style dragonfly lampshade
Cast iron cow
Mexican art glass cocktail glasses
And more!


Priced to go!

Altadena Baptist Church holds community picnic Sunday

Enjoy music, inspiration and friendship in the great outdoors at Altadena Baptist Church (corner of Calaveras and El Molino), Sun., July 24, starting at 11 AM.   A free picnic lunch at noon.

Afternoon activities include clown Darien DeVries, games, crafts, balloon creations, face painting, etc. Come, join us.

Altadena Baptist Church,
791 E. Calaveras St.,
Altadena, CA 91001   
(626) 797-8970   
altadenabaptist.org   
altabap@aol.com

Five coyote pack trolling 2300 block of Morslay Dr. Tues.

View Critter Map 2011 in a larger map

Or so says reader David:

I just thought I would pass along for your critter map that I had a pack of five coyotes in my yard in the 2300 block of Morslay Road at 6:00 AM [Tues.] .  I tapped on the window and they ran to the rear yard and apparently escaped into a neighbor's yard and out to Braeburn.  I have never seen a pack this large before on Morslay and generally it is one or two at time.

New council members sworn in; Sandra Thomas is chair

The Altadena Town Council seated its new and re-elected members at Tuesday night's meeting, and named longtime member Dr. Sandra E. Thomas as chair.

As far as memory serves, Thomas becomes the first African American female elected chair.

Pictured: Altadena Town Council Chair Sandra Thomas.

Other members sworn in by Rita Hadjimanoukian of Supervisor Michael Antonovich's office include new members Gretchen Seager , Brent Musson, and Amy Cienfuegos. Returnees include Greg Middleton, Doug Colliflower, Ken Roberts, Jamie Bissner, and Lori Judson.

The council also named Okorie Ezieme vice-chair, Colliflower treasurer, Bissner corresponding secretary, and Middleton recording secretary.

Thomas is a 35 year resident of Altadena and long-time activist. In 2004 she founded the Quality of Life Center, Inc., where she serves as Dean to Pasadena Unified School District’s (PUSD) more than 500 highest academic achievers currently in the Bright Futures Scholars Leadership Development Program.

In 2010, she received the LA County Women’s Commission’s “Woman of the Year Award” for the Fifth District. In 2008, she received the “California Humanitarian and Family Values Award” and in 2009 the “Los Angeles County Love of Children Award.” She was selected Altadena Chamber of Commerce's “Citizen of the Year” for 2007. Congressman Adam Schiff selected Dr. Sandra E. Thomas 2005 “Congressional Woman of the Year.” The Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. named her recipient of their “Community Political Awareness Award.” Dr. Thomas was chosen PUSD’s “Outstanding Mother of the Year” in 1979 as well as Pasadena High School’s “Mother of the Year” in 1980.

Trash talk with Athens Services at Town Council meeting

Pictured: Athens Services reveals the new trash collection schedule for Altadena, starting Sept. 1.

Athens Services made a presentation at the Altadena Town Council Tuesday night, setting the stage for its takeover of trash hauling service on Sept. 1.

It was the first part of a big public information push for the hauler, which also sent out notices to every residence in Altadena this week.  Athens will also make public presentations and answer questions tonight (Wed.) at 7 PM and Saturday starting at 10 AM, both at the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Dr.

Distribution of carts -- the rolling 96 gallon containers -- will begin Aug. 1 to each household, but are not to be used until Athens' contract begins Sept. 1.  The mailer that went out this week tells when the new trash collection day will be for each household, and that will be reinforced by a postcard to be sent out Aug. 15.

The mailer also said that a Welcome Packet will be included with the cart delivery that contains:

• A subscription order form that must be filled out that details the services offered and new rates
• "Recycle Me" stickers to be placed on empty old containers for pickup the week following the start date;
• A brochure that includes details about the new service and how it works, contact information, and information on "enhanced services."

Schmidt also said that Athens is acquiring new trucks for Altadena and Kinneloa Mesa (which will also start the service Sept. 1).  The trucks will be powered by compressed natural gas (CNG),

Schmidt said that they were also working to identify hard-to-service areas in town, which included narrow streets, cul-de-sacs, and hills where scooter service is required.  Such areas may be subject to an extra fee.

The standard service for each household will include three carts, one each for trash, recycling, and yard waste.  Standard cost is $18.06 per month, billed quarterly ($54.18). 

For more information, call Athens at (877) 764-5551 or visit the website:
http://www.athensservices.com/Altadena.htm

Jeffrey the Great at the Libraries July 26

Jeffrey the Great's World of Magic will appear at the Altadena Libraries on Tues., July 16.

A magical journey around the world featuring llusions from other countres and characters of literature, complete with humor and audience participation to entertain the whole family.

Jeffrey the Great will appear at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St., at 2 PM, and at the Bob Lucas Branch Library, 2659 N. Lincoln Ave., at 4 PM.

 

Sheriff's station offers vacation checks

from  LA County Sheriff's Department releases

It's vacation season, and, if you'd like someone to keep an eye on your home, the Altadena Sheriff's Station has an offer for you.

Patrol certified "Volunteers on Patrol" work at sheriff's stations and assist deputies in patrolling the community and helping to keep an eye on your home.

Contact the Altadena Sheriff''s Station (798-1131) and request a vacation check.

Once we know you're on vacation, our volunteers on patrol will stop by your residence and check on things.

When time permits, this includes checking all doors and windows, remove flyers from your door step, gather up all newspapers from the driveway and placing them out of view. They will also inspect your vehicles in the driveway and make sure they are fine too. The volunteers sometimes leave a card in a secured location showing the check was done.

Fish fry & bake sale at Christ the Shepherd Sat.

from Christ the Shepherd Lutheran Church

Christ the Shepherd Lutheran Church invites the community to this Saturday's Giant Fish Fry and Bake Sale, July 23, 11am-3pm, 185 West Altadena Drive (corner of Glenrose). For just a $9 donation you can enjoy deep-fried catfish or tilapia, green beans, your choice of salads, bread, and an ice-cold drink!  Also available will be a wide variety of home-baked pies, cakes, cookies and other desert delectables.  Proceeds will support CTS' efforts in the community.  www.ChristTheShepherd.org     626.794.7011

Crime blotter: July 8-15 - petty thefts, and a truck

Fri., July 8
4:30 PM: A petty theft occurred in the 200 block of East Palm Street. Suspect(s) stole a purse that was placed on top of the victim's vehicle. Loss: black/gray Coach purse containing personal items.

Mon., July 11
Between 5:50 PM & 6:30 PM:  A petty theft from a vehicle occurred at Millard Campground. Suspect(s) entered an unlocked black Nissan Pathfinder. Loss: beige purse containing a red wallet & a pink Samsung Fascinate cell phone.

Fri., July 15
8:33 AM: A vehicle was reported stolen in the 20 block of East Woodbury Road. Loss: white/blue '99 Chevrolet Silverado 1500.

John McEuen at the Coffee Gallery Backstage Wed.

Always worth noting when Nitty Gritty Dirt Band founder John McEuen plays the Coffee Gallery, as he will this Wed.  McEuen will bring Matt Catsonis and Craig Eastman with him to play.  A night of acoustic Americana, Backstage owner Bob Stane says that "They will involve the audience in the writing of a song, getting the chords and subject from those shouting out!  Something good is going to happen with that!" Admission $20, showtime is 8 PM. Reservations:  (626) 798-6236

 

Morning jolt: Paco gets his cape

• Altadena's man (or dog) of the hour, Paco the crime-fighting chihuahua, was on Good Morning American Monday, and is no doubt tendering Hollywood offers now.  Also a reminder that this crime is still unsolved, so if you have any information, call Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Detective Binder at 626-296-2114 or 626-798-1131. If you prefer to provide information ANONYMOUSLY, you may call "Crime Stoppers" by dialing 800-222-TIPS (8477), texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org.
• A timely reminder: another hiker rescue Sunday from Eaton Canyon.  Be careful out there!

Found kitten, Mendocino & Santa Rosa

Reader Kris says:

My wife and I rescued a white kitten from a tree on the corner of E. Mendocino and Santa Rosa Avenue on Monday, 7/18 around 8 PM.  The kitten appears to be a few months old (maybe 5 or 6), in good health and is very friendly.  It has an all white coat with blue eyes.  A neighbor has taken the kitten in for the night, but If anyone has lost their kitten, we would be happy to point you in the right direction to have her returned.  Feel free to call Kris at 626-533-9797 or kmclaughlin@discoveryecon.com.

Town council tonight, trash information Wed. and Sat.

Three important meetings at the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Dr., this week:

The Altadena Town Council meets in its regular monthly session at  7 PM tonight. 

Athens Services will hold two information sessions to answer questions about the new Altadena trash service, scheduled to begin Sept. 1.  The first information session will start at 7 PM Wed., and another will be held Sat. at 10 AM.

 

Found: Calico kitten, near country club Fri.

Reader Susan tells us:

.. Friday we took in a lost or abandoned Calico kitten ...  Our neighbor found her across the street from the Altadena Country Club. She is totally weaned, litter trained, bright, playful and seemingly healthy. She had no collar or ID tag.

Contact her at ssbraig@earthlink.net or 626-398-9276.

UPDATE: Here's a photo:

Bob Barnes talks about saving the Cobb Estate next Monday

Drive to the top of Lake Avenue and you’ll find 107 acres of undisturbed California nature, replete with hiking trails, native vegetation, birds and wildlife.  The park is named after Charles Cobb who purchased a portion of the Las Flores canyon and built a fine home there in 1915.

Most people don’t know that on October 1, 1971, our treasured Cobb Estate was destined to be filled with hundreds of tract houses.  The Marx family (of Groucho Marx fame) owned the property and after several failed attempts at development, put it up for auction.  When faced with the inevitable transfer to a real estate developer, students at John Muir High School, under the tutelage of their social studies teacher Bob Barnes, countered with the improbable.  They raised not only the consciousness of the community but also the $175,000 needed to purchase the land at auction.  All this at the last minute of the eleventh hour.  

If you can't remember a time when the little man won one, join Altadena Historical Society and listen to Bob Barnes reminisce about the 1971 victory.  More than 800 people attended the auction.  If you know someone who was there, please let them know about the program.  

Mon., July 25, 7:30 PM
Altadena Community Center
730 E. Altadena Drive
Altadena, CA 91001
Phone:  626-797-8016

It's a catch-up day ...

... after a very busy Monday -- had a few meetings which may portend some great and exciting changes to this website.  Of course, it meant letting everything else slide, so today we're going to do our best to catch up on the backlog!

Peace & Justice Academy offers college prep and tools for change

Altadenablog welcomes its new sponsor, The Peace & Justice Academy

by Nora Lee
The Peace & Justice Academy

Hardly any topic gets Altadena bloggers and their followers heated up faster than the topic of education.  As a community, we have never been shy about sharing our opinions on public education, charter schools, private schools and home schooling.  Altadenans are blessed with many choices in every category.  Now, there is a new option:  The Peace & Justice Academy.  And in some very important ways, it overlaps categories.

The Peace & Justice Academy is a small middle and high school which makes it an excellent choice for those parents who have homeschooled through the elementary grades, but are looking for a different experience for their children as they prepare for college.  It is a Christian college prep school with a curricular emphasis on social justice issues.  The goal is to graduate adults, informed by a Christian world view, ready to serve others working for peace and justice at home and around the world.  In the spirit of social justice, no one is turned away based on their beliefs, race, ethnicity, or gender. 

For unhappy and stressed public school parents unsure about affordable alternatives in the area, this is a private school that isn’t priced like an Orange Grove mansion.  The 2011-12 tuition is $9,000 – lowest of all the private high schools in the greater Pasadena area.  The monthly payment is about the same as the payment on a new car!  Peace & Justice also offers financial aid, based on family need.

For current private school parents who are concerned about the lack of diversity in their child’s school, The Peace & Justice Academy proudly serves families from many ethnicities and socio-economic groups.  In the year that just ended, for example, 27% of the students were African American, 7% were American Indian or Alaskan Native, 27% were Hispanic or Latino and 39% were White.  Over half the students qualify for some form of financial aid.

Hahamongna "little dig" postponed at least until August

Via today's LA Times, the city of Pasadena has decided to delay removing 25,000 square yards of dirt directly adjoining the Devil's Gate Dam in order  to preserve toad habitat.

LA County has been working on a plan to remove sediment directly adjoining Devil's Gate Dam in order to effect repairs and restore function to the choked-up flood control area.  The county was planning on piling the sediment at Johnson Field, an unused area next to the dam owned by the city of Pasadena, in order to minimize the effect of increased truck traffic on the streets of Altadena.  The Johnson Field debris would eventually be trucked out as part of the "big dig," a planned four year removal of sediment behind the Devil's Gate Dam that is now stopped pending environmental review.

However, Johnson Field is a habitat for toads when it's wet, as it is now.  The city of Pasadena will reconsider in August what to do with the Johnson Field site after it has dried out and the toads have moved on.  Check the Joe Piasecki's LA Times story for full details.

Nothin' downbeat about the Down Beat Express

 

It was a swingin' good time at Farnsworth Park Saturday night with the Down Beat Express at the Sheriff Support Group's summer concert series. With vocalist Jennifer Gates showing how it's done, it was a great evening for family and friends.

Jennifer Gates works the Great American Songbook ...

... and goes for elegance in the second set.

Teen Summer Reading: weaving friendship bracelets at the Library

On Thursday, July 21 from 4-5pm, “You Are Here” to weave a “Chinese Staircase” patterned friendship Bracelet and sample a variety of Asian snacks at our Weaving Friendship Bracelets event. This pattern makes a truly awesome friendship bracelet. Make sure to bring your flexible fingers and your creative eye.

This program is part of our exciting Teen Summer Reading Program. If you haven’t signed up, what are you waiting for?  We’ve got fun programs, great reads, and did I mention awesome prizes?

Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St.

Brian Hughes lights up the night at the next Summer Concert

The next Sheriff Support Group of Altadena summer concert Sat., July 23, is the return of guitarist Brian Hughes.

Hughes has carved out an impressive career in the contemporary jazz arena. His first two albums, Between Dusk and Dreaming and Under One Sky, firmly established him as one of the foremost guitarists and composers in the genre, perfectly blending his fluid and emotive guitar style into an exciting, melodic mix of Latin, Jazz and World Music compositions.

After being picked as a winner in JAZZIZ Magazine's "Guitars On Fire" competition his subsequent recordings Straight To You, One 2 One, Shakin’ not Stirred, Along the Way and LIVE, have received critical acclaim and major radio air play from coast to coast.  With his sizzling fret work and infectious compositions the media are accurate in saying: "Both a great artist and an accessible one. His passion is so obvious, intense and contagious, that his audience shares it.”

Brian has received the SOCAN/BMI "Jazz & Instrumental Composer of the Year" Award seven times from 1997 to 2009 and the title track from “Shakin’ Not Stirred” was featured on an episode of HBO’s “Sex and the City”. 

Also well known for his 22 year parallel career performing and recording with world renowned vocalist Loreena McKennitt, Brian’s skills as a musician (guitars, oud, bouzouki) and his production talents are evident on her current platinum recording “An Ancient Muse”, the concert DVD “Nights From The Alhambra”, filmed in Granada, Spain and her past seven multi-platinum recordings. Brian has appeared with Loreena on the "Late Show" with David Letterman and received a Juno (Canadian Grammy) nomination as "Producer of the Year " for his work on the platinum selling Loreena McKennitt album “The Visit”.

Brian has also produced several international platinum selling albums for Greek recording artists Evanthia Reboutsika, Yannis Kotsiras and Panayotis Kalantzopoulos including the soundtrack for “A Touch of Spice,” the top grossing film in Greek cinema history. He has also accompanied Celtic music legends The Chieftains on several tours.

Hughes and his band will appear at the concert series in Farnsworth Park next Sat., July 23, starting at 7 PM.

Local theater students premiere "Jasper in Deadland"

from Pasadena Musical Theatre Program

Students in the Pasadena Musical Theatre Program (PMTP) will premiere award-winning lyricist and composer Ryan Scott Oliver's new pop/rock musical Jasper in Deadland at Pasadena High School, 2925 E. Sierra Madre Blvd., Pasadena on August 5 at 7 PM and August 6 at 2 PM and 7 PM.  It’s a featured event in 2011 Festival of New American Musicals.

Jasper in Deadland tells the story of 16-year-old Jasper, who loses his best friend, Agnes, and travels into the afterlife to retrieve her.  But this afterlife, “Deadland,” is a hybrid of Greek, Roman, Egyptian, Norse and Judeo-Christian mythologies, divided into seven “circles.” While there Jasper encounters Cerberus; the demoness Ammut; Loki and his daughter Hel; a psychotic redneck named The Chuckster; and the ever mysterious Mr. Lethe.  Will Jasper retrieve his best friend Agnes or will he join the Dead forever? The show features a cast of students in 7th-12th grades from Pasadena, Altadena and Sierra Madre.

Oliver, who is the Artistic Director of PMTP, is also writing the score for Disney Theatrical’s musical Freaky Friday, which is slated for development at the La Jolla Playhouse in Spring 2012.   In addition to his work with PMTP and Freaky Friday, Oliver is a Jonathan Larson Grant recipient and Richard Rodgers Award Winner.

Carmageddon's for the birds

 
Multitalented Altadena artist Keni sent us this cartoon from his cartoon webpage, putting some perspective on the day.

Found: parrot [UPDATE]

Reader Victora says they've found a parrot, green with red top, at about Olive Ave. and Poppyfields.  The bird is not feral, but appears to be a pet.  If you can help her out, contact her here:

victoriamcd@sbcglobal.net

UPDATE: Victoria says she's since found out he's a wild one who was just hanging out. Two friends arrived, and they all flew off together.

 

Altadena sheriffs wake up the neighborhood as part of gang roundup

Altadena deputies were involved in a roundup of four suspected Pasadena gang members who have been linked to a series of street robberies.

Pasadena Star News has the story here, about a joint operation with police departments from Pasadena, Burbank and Monterey Park, as well as the sheriff's department FBI, and U.S. Marshals. It involved searching locations in Altadena, Pasadena, Duarte and Alhambra, according to reports.

One of our readers wrote:

Our block woke up (approx 4:30 am on the 14th)  to bullhorns, flashing lights, and a couple flash bangs and more bullhorn instructions for the occupants of [a home on the 1700 block of Morada Pl.]

Altadena Sheriff Lt. Joseph Dempsey confirmed that the Morada event was part of the roundup.

Critter activity: bear on Skyview, coyotes on Mar Vista

Reader Amy tells us:

We live on Skyview Drive near Crescent.  A fairly large black bear walked by our kitchen window, in the front yard, at around 6:45am [Thurs.].  It came within five feet of our window and walked into neighbor's yard.  My husband and dog checked our backyard and found evidence of the bear's passing through or perhaps staying the night?  Patio furniture cushions were down and my toddlers inflatable donkey jumper was all the way across the yard deflated with many teeth or claw marks on it.  I walked our street a couple hours later and saw many trash cans turned over and food on the ground.  We called animal control immediately after sighting, but never saw anyone come out.  I know we must learn to live with the bears, but it was our first sighting and in our front and back yard.  We have a toddler and a dog to worry about.  Got to be watchful.  Just wanted to share news with the neighbors.

   And from EveAnna on Mar Vista:

At noon, NOON!, a week ago on 7/7/2011 TWO coyotes were spotted heading into the backyard of 1992 Mar Vista Ave. See photo attached.

Today [July 14] at 7 AM ... a woman was crying and yelling at a coyote ... She had a towel and blanket scooping something up. A pet might have been killed by the coyote. We know no more about this event.

Bulgarini Gelato summer Italian movie series starts Sat.: "Mafioso"

Bulgarini Gelato, 749 E. Altadena Dr., starts its Saturday night "Summer Movie Night" series this weekend, with "Mafioso" starring Alberto Sordi.

Dinner starts at 7:30 PM, $13 (reservations required) including a pasta dish, salad and drink. The film is free, no reservations are required, and starts after dark.  Gelato available throughout. 

Reservations for dinner must be made by Friday (today) by email at catering@bulgarinigelato.com or by calling (626) 791-6174.

Summer hours for Bulgarini Gelato are:
M T W TH  Noon - 9 PM
Fri.  Noon - 11 PM
Sat.  10 AM - 11  PM
Sun.  10 AM - 9 PM

 

Altadena Town Council meeting, 7 PM Tues.

The next Altadena Town Council meeting will be Tues., July 19, at the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Dr., starting at 7 PM.

We can't seem to open the agenda to share a copy, but we CAN tell you that there will be a report on Athens Services trash hauling contract, and they will likely take action on a conditional use permit for a new water well for Rubio Canon Land & Water Co. and community identification signs, which were brought up at the last meeting.

They will also swear in the new councilmembers (if they get a quorum).

Food drive underway for Friends in Deed at Webster's Fine Stationers

After reading this story in the Pasadena Star-News about Friends in Deed's shrinking food larder, Lori and Scott Webster at Webster's Fine Stationers decided to do something about it.  Through the end of the month, they're holding a canned food drive to help, and if you bring two cans of food, you can get a discount of 10% on any purchase (but you don't have to purchase anything to help out Friends in Deed -- just bring in your cans of food!) 

Webster's Fine Stationers is at 2453 N. Lake Ave.

Paco the chihuahua becomes a local hero

Security cam video of the July 7 armed robbery at Ace's Smoke Shop has been made public, and now the hero of the event comes to light: Paco, the feisty chihuahua who wasn't scared by two toughs with a rifle. ABC7's Rudabeh Shahbazi gives us the scoop:

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Now, if somebody could only spread the word to the coyotes that Altadena's dogs are not to be messed with ...

The Folly Bowl opens up an Altadena Shakespeare weekend with Tesserae July 23

The Folly Bowl presents early music ensemble Tesserae on Sat., July 23 at 7:30 PM.

Joined by soprano Suzanne Anderson, Tesserae performs settings of Shakespeare's texts, along with music by Dowland, Byrd, and many more. 

Bring your blankets and picnic to enjoy the beauty of the Folly Bowl together with some of the most beautiful repertoire of the Late Renaissance.

Suggested donation is $15.  The Folly Bowl is at 1601 E. Loma Alta Dr.

(Don't forget that "Shakespeare by the Sea" will present "King Lear" at the Farnsworth Park Amphitheater the next day, Sun., July 24, at 7 PM.  Admission is free.)

Big Hat closes out cowboy music series with Belinda Gail Aug. 6

Big Hat Promotion's summer cowboy & western house concert series continues.  The Sat. July 23 house concert with Dave Bourne and Ray Doyle is already sold out, but there are still seats available for "America's Western Sweetheart" Belinda Gail on Sat., Aug. 6 to close out the series:

We are very excited to welcome Belinda Gail back for our 2011 house concert series. Belinda is one of the most sought after singers performing Western music today and you will discover why when you see her perform Sat., August 6.  A vibrant and natural entertainer with a dynamic and captivating voice, Belinda stirs the emotions and visions of the West in the heart of her audiences. It is no wonder that Belinda truly is "America's Western Sweetheart".  Make your plans to join us as we close out our 2011 Summer Series with the charming and talented Belinda Gail. 

$20 per person cash donation requested, includes BBQ dinner beforehand. Advance reservations required: email big.hat@sbcglobal.net

 

Sheriff's next VIDA program starts Aug. 13

by Carolyn Seitz

If you know kids that are beginning to make poor decisions, or whose grades are slipping, or who seem to be making poor choices in friends, or who are beginning to exhibit aggressive behavior or using foul language more often, or are becoming more moody, angry or withdrawn, the Sheriff's Department has an outstanding program that can have a positive impact on these kids.

It is VIDA - Vital Intervention Directional Alternatives.  It is a 16 week program for kids and it requires parent participation.  Some of what VIDA has to offer is in the attached information which is also shown below.

If you'd like more information or you know anyone who might like more information, you can check out the VIDA website at www.vida.la   The information available on the website includes a way to get more info and an application form.

You can also call the Altadena Sheriff's Station at 626 798 1131, ext 2617 and leave a message.  One of the VIDA deputies will return your call to provide any information you need about this great program.

Many past participants completed the program and asked to enter the Sheriff's Explorer Program.  The Explorers Program will continue the process that often begins in the VIDA program - building self esteem, being a responsible family and community member, motivated to succeed, understanding the value of contribution.

The next program begins August 13. If you'd like a brochure, you can pick one up Saturday at the free Concert in the Park at Farnsworth Park.

Weekendin' July 14-17: Carmageddon edition

While we have the feeling the closure of the 405 over the weekend will wind up being the next Y2K, we feel you can't be too cautious, so stay close to home, there's plenty to do! (Not the least of which is Altadenablog sponsor Webster's Community Pharmacy's sale Fri-Sat.)

Thurs., July 14

• Teen Reading Program: The Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St., 4-5 PM, play games  (and consume candy) from around the world as part of the Library's summer reading program -- earn some cool prizes, too!
• Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake: backstage, Western swing guitarist/singer Carolyn Martin, 8 PM, $15. Reservations:  (626) 798-6236.

Fri., July 15

• Beach Bus to Santa Monica: pickups start at 9 AM. $3. See here for details.
• Summer Movie Extravaganza at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St.: "Rango," rated PG, starts at 3:30 PM.  Free popcorn and drink!
• Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake: front stage, open mic night, starts at 8 PM, free; backstage, Salty Suites (roots & bluegrass), 8 PM, $15. Reservations:  (626) 798-6236.

Sat., July 16

• Sheriff's Support Group Summer Concert Series: "The Down Beat Express" big band with Jennifer Gates and trumpeter Paul Cacia.  Starts at 7 PM at Farnsworth Park, absolutely free. Before the concert, you can pick up a dinner from Amy’s Patio Café  http://www.amyspatiocafe.net/id3.html or El Patron  http://elpatrononline.com/.   During the concert, beer and wine are available for purchase courtesy of the Altadena Rotary Club.  Webster's Fine Stationers is providing water and ice for the performers. Concerts are hosted by the Altadena Sheriff’s Station and Farnsworth Park.  Sponsors of the summer concert series are: Warner Bros., Rotary Club of Altadena, Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich, Toyota of Pasadena, Baietti Seyffert/Podley Realtors, All American Audio Visual,  M & M Printing, Trinity ThreadWorks, My Irish Pride,  Georgia Rutherford in memory of Don Rutherford, and Altadenablog.  The concerts this year are dedicated to the memory of Cue MacKenzie.
• Bulgarini Gelato starts its summer Italian movie series with "Mafioso." Italian dinner is $13, served at 7:30, but reservations must be made Friday.  The movie starts after dark, and is free.  Gelato available throughout the night. Reservations can be made by email at catering@bulgarinigelato.com or by calling (626) 791-6174.
• Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake: backstage, Janet Klein & Her Parlor Boys, 7 PM, $20; Reservations:  (626) 798-6236.
• Also at the Coffee Gallery Frontstage, 10 PM: Cans for Comedy:  Each month comedians Julie Sandoval and Di Stanky bring together an amazing array of talented comedians for a special laugh filled night. This show is always funny and ,in fact we know it is the funniest show in all of Altadena. The price of admission is a canned food donation that will be delivered to Friends in Deed Food Pantry which distributes much needed food to working poor families. For your donation you get a great show, pizza and soft drinks.

Sun., July 17

• Monthly gathering to support the midlife journey, third Sunday of the month at a private home in Altadena, 1-4 PM.  For more information go to www.simpleordinarypresence.com/Monthly.html 
• Altadena Ale & Wine House, 2329 N. Fair Oaks: 8 fabulous wines this Sunday from Spain and France 3:30-5 PM, cheeses included.
• Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake; backstage, open mic, free, 8 PM; backstage, The Late Bloomers, 7 PM, $18. Reservations:  (626) 798-6236.

Sheriff's Station sponsoring Night Out, Community in the Park events in August

The Altadena Sheriff's Station is participating in two community events during the first week in August at Charles White and Farnsworth Parks.

On Tues., Aug. 2, the sheriff station along with the Sheriff's Support Group of Altadena and the Neighborhood Watch groups will be sponsoring the annual "National Night Out" at Farnsworth Park, 5-8 PM.  There will be potluck and barbecue, and information available on setting up a Neighborhood Watch program and CERT training.

For more information, contact Deputies Greg Gabriel, LaMark Williams, or Sgt. Mike Randenberg at 626-296-2134.

On Sat., Aug. 6, the sheriff's station is hosting its first "Community in the Park" event at Charles White Park, 77 Mountain View St., 1-4 PM.

According to a press release, "This community event it designed to show law enforcement's appreciaton of the citizens of  Altadena.  It will also help our continuous effort to build strong, positive relationships with the community we serve, as well as give the citizens of Altadena an opportunity to come together, interact, and bond with each other.  It will be a festive famly atmosphere filled with food, fun and safety information."

For more information, contact Dep. Williams or Sgt. Randenberg at the number above.

A murder of crows

Yep, that's what they call a bunch of crows, and it seems appropriate somehow!

Nancy Fees took this picture (passed along by Steve Gerow) on Loma Alta west of Stonehill.  Maybe they're just getting out of town before Carmageddon?

We have some meetings and such this morning, so updates will be later today, and they'll be worth it!

 

Supervisor changes to Altadena "off the table" for now [UPDATED]

UPDATE 4:13 PM:  As  usual when one runs fast out the door, more facts come spilling in -- so we're taking the story below with a grain of salt until we dredge up some more. We usually do better than this, so hold on ...

UPDATE 4:15 PM:  Tony Bell has clarified that Barger is monitoring the meeting, and Altadena has in fact not come up at all -- "off the table" just meant that it's not being discussed.  We're walking back this story and apologizing for jumping the gun here.

UPDATE 4:16 PM:  Are things coming thick and fast?  Yes.  This is a message we received from Kathryn Barger, Antonovich's chief of staff:

The meeting is being streamed "live" on County website. The plan being proposed and voted on today keeps Altadena in 5th....ultimately - The Board of Supervisors will take this issue up in August and vote to accept the plan approved by committee today- or modify the plan.

So, in summary: the plan proposed by the Boundary Review Committee keeps Altadena in the Fifth District, but the Board of Supervisors has final say and can accept or modify the plan.  Barger's comments were not public in the meeting, but to the staff -- and it still seems less likely that Altadena will ultimately be split or moved.

UPDATE 4:29: from Elliot Gold, who is monitoring the meeting, caught the following sound bite: "5th District, we got over 100 pieces of correspondence, almost without exception support keeping the existing boundaries, and keeping Altadena intact."

This is beginning to remind us of those Station Fire days ...

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Splitting Altadena between two supervisory districts or moving it entirely to the First District is "off the table" for now, according to county staff.

Tony Bell, spokesman for Fifth District Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich, confirmed to us that Antonovich's chief of staff, Kathryn Barger, told the county's Boundary Review Committee today that changing Altadena's status is "off the table" as new district boundaries are being drawn.

However, Bell cautioned, the process is not yet over.  After the committee finalizes its recommendations today, it will be sent to the Board of Supervisors for final approval.  Still, a switch to the First District (Gloria Molina) or splitting Altadena between the First and Fifth Districts seems less likely in light of Barger's public comments.

 

Shuldiner hopes to redefine the farmer's market in Altadena

Cookbook designer-cum-market manager wants to bring the Zane Grey Estate market's sensibility to Loma Alta Park

When will the Altadena Urban Farmer's Market (AUFM) make a reappearance?

Maybe soon-- folded into the long-awaited farmer's market at Loma Alta Park.

Joseph Shuldiner -- one of the organizers of the AUFM -- is working with the Los Angeles County Parks Dept. to become the manager of the long-promised market at the park. Al Evans of the county park's department says that Shuldiner is one of two potential managers for the market, and -- as he is local -- he's in the favored position.

"I'd rather have a local operation," Evans said. "I think it'd be stronger if we had the local people involved. It would enjoy a lot greater support from the community."

Graphic designer to market manager
Becoming a farmer''s market manager is a personal re-creation for Shuldiner. He was an art director for the LA Times for 15 years, and spent the last six years as a consultant, graphic designer, creative director, and editorial content consultant. He's also found a niche designing cookbooks, which is appropriate for a foodie.

Moving into managing a farmer's market, "my colleagues say, well, yes," Shuldiner said. ; "It's about content and education, and I love to do the entire marketing aspect of it to make it succeed -- and my passion is food. So somewhere it all makes sense to me."

Danny's Farm: out of Altadena, but it keeps on truckin'

Pictured: Danny's Farm staff celebrate their new truck.  Left to right: Alex Reeser, Reynard Franklin, Danny Cervantez, Tammi Terrell and Danny Gott.

Always glad to hear from the oh-so-missed Danny's Farm, perhaps the greatest victim of the county's Altadena code-bombing spree.  Danny's Farm -- which provides a petting zoo for all children, programs for children with autism, and employment for special needs young people and adults -- recently received over $100,000 from a fundraiser hosted by 30 Rock's Alec Baldwin, and they're putting it to good use. 

Cathy Gott, whose son Danny gave the farm its name, emails us that they've recently purchased a truck to help cart the animals to various events.  Soon on its heels will be a trailer attachment that, Cathy says, "is going to look like a giant barn & it's going to be DARLING! I can hardly wait!"

Danny's Farm continues to operate its Specialty Autism Program (after school and summer program) at the Almansor Center in South Pasadena, and is working closely with Cal Poly Pomona to see about basing their petting farm operations from there.

The mobile farm and animals will be at the Villa Esperanza 50th Anniversary block party this Saturday.

The nightmare is over: Altadena sheriff's station is answering its own calls again

Altadena Sheriff Lt. Joseph Dempsey sent out a message that the Altadena Sheriff Station is now answering its own phone calls again. During the interminable and still ongoing renovation of Altadena Station, all phone calls were routed to the Crescenta Valley station. 

Anyone calling the business line (626-798-1131) will reach the desk at Altadena. 911 calls will continue to be routed to Crescenta Valley first.

The lobby at 780 E. Altadena Dr. (which includes a public restroom) is now open for business as construction is being completed.  There are also plans to install a secure dropoff box to dispose of unused, expired, or illegal drugs once construction is complete.  Crescenta Valley is currently the closest sheriff station with such a dropoff.

Chamber mixer at Park Bench Deli Thurs., July 28

July's Altadena Chamber of Commerce mixer will be Thurs., July 28 at the Park Bench Deli, 2470 Lake Ave., from 5:30-7:30 PM. 

Members are $5, and guests are $7.  Bring a raffle prize and receive commercial time to promote your business (or bring it just to be nice!).

County Boundary Review Committee final meeting this afternoon

The county's Boundary Review Committee will hold its final meeting today at 2 PM in Room 381B of the Kenneth Hahn Hall of Administration, 500 West Temple St., Los Angeles. 

Following Monday night's meeting, odds are good that Altadena will remain in the Fifth Supervisory District under Michael D. Antonovich, but anything can happen.  The committee agenda is here:

http://redistricting.lacounty.gov/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/071311_BRC-Final-Agenda.pdf

The meeting will be livecast on the web at the following address, starting at 2 PM:
http://bos.co.la.ca.us/Categories/MtgsBoard/LiveBroadcast.htm.

Morning jolt

• A couple of items from last week's Pasadena Weekly: the Weekly interviews local movie star John C. Reilly on his new shot-in-Altadena movie, "Terri"; and Andre Coleman's new local political column puts us in good company with Ann Erdman and Gary Scott (but Andre -- links! you gotta have links to these fabulous blogs!)
• "Monetizing Your Blog" is the topic at this month's meeting of the Social Media Club of the San Gabriel Valley at the Business Technology Center, 2400 Lincoln Ave., Altadena.  Brown bag lunch and networking from 11:30 AM to noon, presentation follows  ending at 1 PM sharp on Thurs., July 14.

 

Crime blotter: armed robbery, stolen Beemer parts and GPS units

Tues., July 5

3:30 PM – A robbery occurred at Foothill Management, 1844 N. Allen Ave.  The suspect, described as male, African-American, 25–30 yrs, 6 feet tall, thin build, wearing a dark color brim hat, sunglasses, black & blue plaid long sleeve shirt and dark pants, entered the location and walked to the front desk.  The suspect smiled at the victim while holding a demand note.  When the victim told the suspect she did not have any money, the suspect leaned over the desk, opened a drawer and took U.S. currency.  The suspect then ordered the victim to walk to the rear of the office.   As the victim and suspect walked to the back of the office the suspect noticed the other employees.  The suspect ran out of the office and out of view.  Loss:  U.S. currency. 

 

Thurs., July 7

Between 12:01 AM and 6:00 AM – A petty theft from a vehicle occurred in the 2000-block of N. Allen Av.  Loss:  front grill of a BMW X5.  The sheriff's station notes that this is the fourth incident involving theft of vehicle parts of BMW’s.

7:30 PM – A robbery occurred at Ace Smoke Shop, 2501 N. Lake Av.  The suspects were described as: #1 male, Hispanic, 18-25 yrs, 5 ft. 6 ins. -5 ft. 10 ins., 150-180 lbs., short hair, black hooded sweatshirt, red bandana, carrying a black & gray backpack; and #2 male, Hispanic, 18-25yrs, 5 ft. 6 to 5 ft. 10 ins, 150-180 lbs., short hair, black jacket, black ski mask, armed with a rifle.  Suspect #1 entered the location and placed a black/gray backpack on the front counter while suspect #2 armed with a rifle walked behind suspect #1.  Suspect #2 told the victim, “give me all of your money” and the victim complied.  The suspects exited the location and fled in an unknown direction.  Per witnesses, the suspects were seen running southbound on Maiden Ln. from Mariposa St.  Weapon:  unknown make/model rifle.  Loss:  $200.00.

Between 11:45 PM and 6:30 AM, Sat. – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 400 block of East Las Flores Drive.  Suspect(s) entered the vehicle by shattering the driver’s side window.  Loss:  gray Garmin GPS.

Sat., July 9

Between 12:15 AM and 11:00 AM – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 400 block of Poppyfields Drive.  Suspect(s) entered the vehicle by shattering the driver’s side window.  Loss:  black/gray Garmin Nuvi 1300 GPS. 

Supervisors offer $10K reward in Brandon Jackson murder case

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a motion by Supv. Michael D. Antonovich to offer a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of whoever is responsible for the February shooting death of Brandon Jackson in Altadena.

Jackson, a Muir High School fullback-linebacker, was shot as he was walking home from a party on the 300 block of West Palm St. at about 10:40 PM on Feb. 12.  He died at Huntington Hospital in Pasadena a short time later.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call Detective Adan Torres at (323) 890-5500.