altadenablog

Weekendin': Sept. 22-25

The weekend's coming, and there's always more coming in, so watch this space.

Thurs., Sept. 22

• Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake; front stage, Songwriter Spotlight night, with Pat Nason, Donna Barnes-Roberts, Pierre and Mikey (of Wreck and Sow fame), Tatiana Van Sauter and Jacob Newberry. Starts 8 PM, free; backstage, Mark Barnett as Roy Orbison. 8 PM.  Tickets: $15. Reservations:  (626) 798-6236.
• "Piled Higher and Deeper," a comedy about life, or lack thereof, in academia, adapted for the screen by Jorge Cham from his popular webcomic, premieres at Caltech's Beckman Auditorium at 8 PM (for the Caltech/JPL community) and 10 PM (for everyone else).  (It was filmed at Caltech, so this is a big deal!) You can see the trailer for the movie at www.phdcomics.com/movie Also, the Pie & Burger Food Truck, Crepe-n-Around Food Truck, and Kool Haus Ice Cream Truck will be at Beckman starting 6-11 PM.

Fri., Sept. 23

• Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake;  backstage, Border Radio with Tom Corbett, 8 PM.  Tickets: $18. Reservations:  (626) 798-6236.

Sat., Sept. 24

• Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy hiking series:. Meet: E. Loma Alta Drive and Camp Huntington Road, Altadena. Trail Description: About a mile each way with a 500 foot elevation gain. Much of Rubio Canyon had been inaccessible to the public for decades when the Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy and its partners preserved the canyon in 2011. Explore this untrammeled land with a hike along a trail first carved in 1888, and learn of the canyon’s rich history as the home of the Huntington Boy Scout Camp and the Mount Lowe Railway. Ginny Heringer, an experienced trail docent with decades of hiking experience in the local foothills, will lead the hike and point out native plants.  Starts at 9 AM, and it's free.
• First Presbyterian Church Fall Festival, 3-8 PM: invites the community to share in the celebration of its Fall Festival, Sat., Sept. 24 on the church grounds. This family oriented celebration includes children’s games, delicious food, entertainment and a learning opportunity.  During the afternoon a new video entitled, “In Their Own Words” will be shown featuring the “life experiences” of church members who endured the internment Camps during World War II. The First Presbyterian Church rejoices both in its proud history as the center of the Japanese-American community in the Pasadena area and its on-going ministry of providing a welcoming fellowship for a diversity of people. 2775 Lincoln Avenue, Altadena.
• Altadena Sheriff Station Grand Re-Opening, 780 E. Altadena Dr., 3-7 PM.  Join Sheriff Lee Baca, the deputies of Altadena station, and other dignitaries in the official re-opening of Altadena's historic sheriff station. 
• Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake;  backstage: Ken O'Malley (Irish music), 3 PM matinee, 18; Janet Klein and her Parlor Boys,  7 PM  Tickets: $20. Reservations:  (626) 798-6236.
• HB3 at the Folly Bowl, 8 PM concert, doors open at 7.  Suggested donation $5.  The performance will feature a premiere of his new work, "Poseidon: Fantasia for Piccolo Bass."  The Folly Bowl is at 1601 E. Loma Alta Dr.  Bring a picnic and blanket, and pack out what you bring in.

Sun., Sept. 25

• Westminster Presbyterian Church will hold a ribbon cutting ceremony at 11:30 AM for their new dryscaped North Garden (facing Lake Ave.) on Sunday as part of our annual Open House (which is also a Volunteer Fair &  Service Opportunity Expo this year).  The dryscape, designed by landscape archtect Russell Wrightman, used 45 tons of granite and 43 tons of gravel. There will be information, signups, or handouts on dozens of service opportunities in Pasadena/Altadena, from food banks to 5-Ks, at the volunteer fair. Plus kids can make crafts to be donated to Meals on Wheels, and parents can get expert advice on the benefits of volunteering for kids of all ages, or as a family.
• Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake; backstage matinee, Nerea (fiddle), 3 PM, $15;  Simply Put (a capella), 7 PM, $15; front stage, open mic night, starts 8 PM, free;  Reservations:  (626) 798-6236.

 

 

40 workers laid off at JPL as Congress puts the squeeze on funding

By Bill Kisliuk
Pasadena Sun

Federal funding cuts continue to impact the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in La Cañada Flintridge, where 40 workers were laid off last week, the latest notch in a prolonged period of cutbacks for the agency.

It was the second round of layoffs this year for NASA’s JPL, which cut its workforce by 250 people in February and March, agency spokeswoman Veronica McGregor said.

The latest round of layoffs affected the business and facilities divisions, McGregor said. No science or research jobs were affected, she added. 

JPL has roughly 5,000 employees, including “several hundred” in business and facilities, according to McGregor.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

 

Progress report on TVs for sheriff's station

by Carolyn Seitz

Captain McLean from the Altadena Sheriff's Station, his leadership team and the deputies and administrative staff are thanking you all very much for helping them move closer to having televisions in all the places they need them at the Sheriff's Station.

They requested help acquiring seven Sony Bravia 32 inch TVs that were on sale at some places for $368 each plus tax and one Sony Bravia 46 inch TV which was also for sale in some stores for $898.

One of the residents in Altadena was correct is commenting that it was about $3,500, and a little more with tax.

So far, you've delivered a great $650 to the Station and one person has offered to deliver a new TV to the Station later this week.

That means we're really close to having 3 new TV's and that is very much appreciated.

Thank you everybody for your donations, large and small.  It's all appreciated!

Pasadena barber King King slain

 

King King's Barber Shop & Beauty Salon on Wed. Sept. 21, 2011, where police are investigating the owner's murder. (Raul Roa/Pasadena Sun)

by Ana Facio-Krajcer

Pasadena Sun

Pasadena police confirmed that the body of a Pasadena man found lying in a parking lot on Washington Boulevard early Wednesday morning is King Eldridge King, 43, owner of King King’s Barber and Beauty Salon.

Police are investigating King's death as a homicide, Lt. Tracey Ibarra said.  Washington Boulevard was closed to traffic for a block east of Lake Avenue for most of the day Wednesday.

Walt Butler, owner of a building adjacent to the barber shop on Washington near Lake Avenue, said the victim was stabbed, a fact police did not confirm. Butler said the parking lot where the body was found was a source of disturbances in the neighborhood.

“It has not been a peaceful place,” Butler said. “There was always chaos.”

Ibarra said King was known to have conflicts with some residents in the area.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

Pasadena barber may be homicide victim on Washington & Lake

Pasadena police are investigating a probable homicide at Lake and Washington today.

Our content partners at the Pasadena Sun report that the body of an African-American man in his 30's was found by a witness who called police at around 12:45 AM Wednesday morning. Witnesses report that he is a Pasadena barber, but an official identification is still pending.

Police have blocked off Washington Boulevard at Lake Avenue as they continue the investigation.

"Shack" Shackelford receives archdiocese mentor award

Tecumseh Shackelford, Altadena Town Councilman and President of Mentoring and Partnership for Youth Development (MPYD) at John Muir High School, has been selected to receive the Archdiocesan Youth Employment Exemplary Outstanding Mentor Award from the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles.

The “Outstanding Mentor Award” is awarded to worksite supervisors who go beyond what is expected and take a personal interest to become involved in a young person’s life. Tecumseh Shackelford, “Shack” as he is fondly called, is a pillar in the Altadena/Pasadena communities. His work with young men has earned him several awards, most notably “Altadena Citizen of the Year” and even though he’s retired, you can find him most days working with the students at John Muir High School. Several years ago, he co-founded MPYD which today has become a signature program for mentorship in the city of Pasadena.    

As if his work with MPYD was not enough, over four years ago, Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich asks the Archdiocesan Youth Employment Services (AYE) to help MPYD provide summer jobs for the youth in Altadena. To date, the program has provided over 500 jobs to the youth in Altadena. As a result many of the youth workers have gone on to actually get regular and part-time jobs in the work force. The success of the program has been because of a direct correlation of Shack’s commitment to the youth.

“A special part of this is a work readiness class that the Archdiocesan program provides for the youth and that helps them build skills to get and keep more suitable jobs,” Shack remarked. “I enjoy helping the youth find their true passion and become successful,” he added.

MPYD coordinates a lunch time Speakers’ Series at John Muir High School where professional men and women from the community give the young men advice on obtaining the tools to become successful. They (MPYD) also host an annual camping trip.

Also receiving the same award as Shackelford are Climmie Jones, Foshay Learning Centers and Elizabeth Stanford, Bank of America. 

 The 17th Annual Alumni and Employer Recognition Awards Dinner will be held on Thurs., Sept. 29 at the Omni Los Angeles Hotel, located at 251 South Olive Street, Los Angeles. For ticket information, contact Mona Miller or Isabel Estrada at (213) 736-5654.

Mo Martin to join LPGA tour in 2012

Mo Martin in the big leagues: Altadena golfer Melissa "Mo" Martin has secured privileges to play in the LPGA 2012 Tour.  SGV Tribune staffer Larry Morgan has a feature on the latest addition to pro golfing's elite.

 

September town council rundown

Pictured: El Patron restaurant owner Alex Cortez is honored by the town council for CT 4602.  From left to right, councilman Okorie Ezieme, Cortez, chair Sandra Thomas, and councilman Greg Middleton.

by Timothy Rutt

In other town council business:

• Street repairs: The council heard a report from the Department of Public Works on work that will be done on several streets next summer.  Maiden Lane and Holliston Ave. between Mendocino St. and Altadena Drive, including the El Corto cul-de-sac, will be repaved.  Speed humps on Holliston and the arroyos (stone-lined drainage) along Maiden Lane and Holliston will be retained.
  
  There will also be concrete repairs and repaving on Hill between New York Drive and East Calavaras, and Lexington Avenue west of Holliston and Atchison Street west of Mar Vista Avenue.  A water capture feature will also be installed on HIll to capture rain runoff rather than let it drain down the street.
• New committees and website underway: Chair Sandra Thomas said that the council was still forming and revitalizing town council committees. The council has also launched a new website (which is still in progress) at. http://altadenatowncouncil.org/.
• Sheriff: Sheriff Capt. Steven McLean introduced two new officers: Sgt. James Wilson,who will work patrol; and Ronny Manier, an Altadena resident who will be the new community relations deputy.
  
  Lt.Joseph Dempsey said the last month found an uptick in property crimes, i.e. burglaries: 23 in the last four weeks, all spread out around town. Deputies have also arrested suspects in numerous burglaries in progress, Dempsey said. 
  
  There were several occasions when burglars broke into occupied houses after knocking on the door and receiving no response. Dempsey said that residents needed to show some indication that the house was occupied -- he suggested just saying “i’m not interested” to whoever’s at the door, or telling children who are at home alone to tell solicitors that “mom’s on the phone and can’t come to the door.” Dempsey said that there were no incidents of burglars hitting a house when they know someone’s home.
• Citizen/Business of the Month: The council is also starting a “Citizen or Business of the Month” award for each census tract.  The first winner, for Census Tract 4602, is Alex Cortez, owner of El Patron restaurant on Lake Avenue.
• White Park remains open: Marissa Hernandez of the Los Angeles County Dept. of Parks and Recreation said there was no truth to a rumor that Charles White Park would be closed. Hernandez said that Parks was not starting any new programs at White or Farnsworth Parks, due to staffing cuts, but existing youth sports programs would continue. 

 

BTC & Social Media Club event tomorrow

The Business Technology Center, 2400 Lincoln Ave, Altadena, and the Social Media Club of San Gabriel Valley (SMC SGV) will host a Social Media Week event on Thurs, Sept. 22, that will discuss how to perform a social media audit and extract business intelligence from online conversations.

Consumers have adopted social media in record numbers, and as a result, businesses are paying attention, too.  Use of social media as a business tool has increased markedly in the last year, and now more than 80% of all businesses and organizations use some form of social media as a marketing tool.  Sally Falkow, event speaker and co-developer of PRESSfeed, the social media newsroom, and founder of Social Media Club LA and SGV, is an acknowledged expert in internet marketing strategies, blogs, and online public relations.  Her presentation will provide a great venue for companies to learn and practice both early stage and growing ventures in actively managing their online presence and public communications. 

The brown bag event will be from 11:30 AM-1 PM.  There is no charge to attend this event, but registration is required as space is limited.

Social Media Club meetings are regularly hosted by the BTC. The BTC is an innovative organization with a mission of assisting start-up and early stage technology firms to grow and prosper.  The incubator, which opened in October 1998, is a 40,000 square foot secure facility with a state-of-the-art communication infrastructure, offering key business support services to emerging technology organizations, including access to capital, business consulting, and mentoring from an Advisory Committee and Mentoring Committee with a wide range of skills, experience, and contacts in Southern California.

Town council turns down permit for Arroyo Pacific Academy

Pictured: opponents of a school on Palm Street showed solidarity by wearing red at Tuesday night's town council meeting.

by Timothy Rutt

The Arroyo Pacific Academy’s petition for a conditional use permit for its Palm Street location was voted down by the Altadena Town Council tonight.

Just like the land use committee meeting two weeks ago, the community center was packed with supporters and opponents of the school. However, there weren't the emotional outbursts that characterized the Sept. 6 meeting.

Council chair Sandra Thomas ran the meeting with a strict hand:  Arroyo Pacific Acadey owner Philip Clarke had seven minutes to make his case.  He could follow with three supporters, three minutes each.  The opposition could field four speakers, three minutes each.  Clarke then had three minutes to make a final statement.

Clarke largely demurred to his land use attorney, Liz Hanks. Hanks wanted to clarify that schools were a conditionally permitted use in a location zoned for a single family residence, and responded to several statements made at the land use committee meeting.

Coleen Sterritt of the Palm Street Area Resident’s Association (PSARA), which opposes the school, reiterated the resident’s theme that they’ve already endured a school on the property in 2008-2009, and know from experience that it won’t work.  Sahag-Mesrob Armenian Christian School operated on the property that year without permits and was closed down by the county.

Aveson's Altadena campus to host TEDxPasadena inaugural event Oct. 22

by Timothy Rutt

Aveson Charter School, 1919 E. Pinecrest Dr., will be the site of the inaugural TEDxPasadena event, "Creating the Future," on Sat., Oct. 22, from 9 AM-4 PM.

The nonprofit organization TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) (www.TED.com) is devoted to "Ideas Worth Spreading."  In their description,

At TED, the world's leading thinkers and doers are asked to give the talk of their lives in 18 minutes. Talks are then made available, free, at TED.com. TED speakers have included Bill Gates, Jane Goodall, Elizabeth Gilbert, Sir Richard Branson, Benoit Mandelbrot, Philippe Starck, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Isabel Allende and former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown. Two major TED events are held each year: The TED Conference takes place every spring in Long Beach, California (along with a parallel conference, TEDActive, in Palm Springs), and TEDGlobal is held each summer in Edinburgh, Scotland.

There are also independent, locally-grown licensed TED conferences (called TEDx) at several locations. TEDxPasadena's (www.TEDxpasadena.com) inaugural event at Aveson, "Creating the Future," will feature three tracks under the categories of Thriving, Contribution, and Sustainability.  Organizers say "the event will bring together the brightest minds in the community to join resources and explore the endless possibilities for serving humanity, the world and the future."

Time change for Sheriff Station Sept. 24 re-opening

The Altadena Sheriff Station has rescheduled the time for its grand re-opening ceremony on Sat. Sept. 24.

The opening has shifted to the afternoon, and so will now start at 3 PM, with tours going on until 7 PM.

 

Suspicious package shuts down 210 Monday night

Los Angeles Sheriff's Deputies shut down the 210 Freeway to investigate a suspicious package. (Pasadena Sun/KTLA)

By Tiffany Kelly
Pasadena Sun 

The Foothill (210) Freeway was briefly shut down Monday evening as authorities investigated a package left on a La Cresenta overpass.  

The freeway was shut down in both directions for approximately 10 minutes, snarling traffic for miles as Los Angeles Sheriff's deputies investigated a briefcase on the Rosemont Avenue bridge. No homes were evacuated, though Rosemont Avenue, between Altura and Mayfield avenues, was also shut down.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

Tech Week coming to Business Technology Center Oct. 17-21

The Tenth Annual Los Angeles Technology Week will be held October 17-21, 2011, at the Altadena-based Business Technology Center (BTC). The BTC is a project of the Community Development Commission of the County of Los Angeles (CDC), and the largest technology business incubator in California.

“L.A. TechWeek has become known as a ‘don’t miss event’ among venture capitalists, and both fledgling and veteran technology entrepreneurs,” explains Dr. Mark Lieberman, co-founder of Technology Week and Director of the BTC.  “It’s a rare local opportunity for this peer group to gain introductions, swap war stories and hear what’s new in their world.” The event showcases the innovations of high-tech companies, connects technology leaders and entrepreneurs with strategic resources, and honors a local technology entrepreneur with the Technology Leader of the Year award.

Pictured: Franklin Urteaga, CEO of Digital Coast Advisors, Inc. and former advisor to President Bill Clinton, gets the scoop on the latest iPad tablet apps from Chris Hewish of DreamWorks Animation at the last Tech Week, in January.

This year’s theme is “Where Innovation Meets Implementation.” TechWeek’s signature symposium on October 20, 2011, features seven panel discussions with nationally-recognized business entrepreneurs addressing topics ranging from the sales, legal and funding issues facing start-ups, to opportunities technology provides in the fields of entertainment, medical devices, and green energy.  Tickets to the Oct. 20 symposium include lunch at a cost of $65, and $20 for students, if purchased by Oct. 1^st; $85 and $40 for students if purchased after October 1^st.  Event details and registration are available at http://techweek.ticketleap.com/october-2011/.

Library hosts "Power of One: Part II" on Oct. 17

Learn how you can add passion and purpose to your life and make a real difference in the world by joining a panel of leaders at the Altadena Library on Mon., October 17 at 7  PM. 

Power of One, written by Traude Gomez and featuring the photographic work of Brian Biery, was the subject of a library discussion in June.  Next month, join Gomez, Biery and others as they discuss the inspirational and innovative ways they have contributed to the community.  Be ready to speak about your initiatives and bring information about them so that others can learn from you too!

Documentary photographer and community activist Biery will lead the discussion.  Speakers include journalist and author, Traude Gomez; “Drugstore Cowboy” Jim Avedikian, of Phoenix Pharmacy; “Mover and Shaker” Sue Black, of the Sue B. Dance Company; “Ms. Diversity” Gerda Govine, of the Pasadena Commission on the Status of Women; “Time Traveler” Elizabeth Pomeroy, writer and teacher at Pasadena City College; and “Public School Supporter” Tom Selinske, founder of the Pasadena City College Flea Market.

Gomez-Rhine has explored a variety of human interest topics, from fashion and art to education and botany, by using a range of writing styles. Most recently she has completed writing projects for the Pasadena Educational Foundation, the Music Center of Los Angeles, and The Huntington Library.

Biery’s work has been featured in numerous publications. He has lived in Guatemala as a Peace Corps Volunteer and works on organizing projects in the communities of Pasadena and Altadena.

This free program is sponsored by the Friends of the Library. The main Altadena Library is located at 600 E. Mariposa Street, Altadena, 91001. For more information: (626) 798-0833 or www.altadenalibrary.org.

 

 

Morning jolt: sing along with Dr. House

• Bear tracks: Via our friends at Hometown Pasadena, Debra Whitehouse has some video of bear tracks on fresh asphalt in her La Vina neighborhood.
• Inspector sentenced: Raoul Germain of Altadena was sentenced Monday to 21 months in prison.  Germain, a former county building inspector, was convicted of taking bribes.  LA Times has the details.
• Rock of the 90's: The Altadena Ale House 2329 N. Fair Oaks, says they'll have acoustic 90's music tonight, starting at 8 PM.  Probably will need a drink after tonight's town council meeting ...
• Raspin in the House: Raspin Stuwart, a frequent performer at the Coffee Gallery Frontstage, will be on the bill at The Mint nightclub in LA on Fri., Sept. 30. He'll be on at 10:30 -- the opening act at 9 PM will be Hugh Laurie (yes, Dr. House). Tickets are $15 -- for reservations or more information, 323-954-9400.

Wasserman returns to the Library with Designing Your LIfe, Part II

Back by popular demand, Altadena Renaissance man Allan Wasserman returns to the Altadena Library on Oct. 10 for Designing Your Life: Part II."

Wasserman shared a workshop on Part I last June, and, according to a release from head librarian Pauli Dutton, "this topic which proved so successful the participants clamored for more." :

Do you have dreams of accomplishment waiting inside for that someday when you will have more time, energy, or can decide just what it is you really want?  Perhaps you would like to try out a new skill such as acting, writing, or playing an instrument. Or maybe it’s weight lifting, a new career, or foreign language that is calling?  Where and how do you begin?

What sets this event apart from other inspirational talks is the opportunity for connecting with others who may have just the experience and skills you are looking for ... the program will start with a summary from Part I and lead you even further on the path to your dreams. 

Wasserman is an award-winning writer, an actor, stockbroker, and alto saxophonist and leader of the Allan Wasserman Jazz Ensemble, which has gigs all around Los Angeles County.  He's also a long-time member of the Altadena Town Council -- and now, motivational speaker.  How does he do it all -- and how can YOU do it all, too? 

This free program will be Mon., Oct. 10, at 7 PM, and is sponsored by the Friends of the Altadena Library.

The main Altadena Library is located at 600 E. Mariposa St., Altadena.   For more information, please call (626) 798-0833 or check the library’s website at http://www.altadenalibrary.org.

Dropping off medicine, drugs, and needles

by Carolyn Seitz

As you know, the Altadena Sheriff's Station installed two drop off boxes in front of the Station a few months ago and the boxes are now being very well used.

For those of you who need a safe way to dispose of sharps - hypodermic needles, the Station doesn't yet have a sharps box available.

If Athens Services is now picking up your trash/recyclables/greenwaste, they may be able to provide a means for safe disposal.  You can call them at 626 336 3636 ask for customer service for the Altadena area and ask for help disposing of needles.

Please feel free to let me know if you have questions.

Altadena Junction: sheriff's station, Arroyo Pacific, hikes, and burglars

A cornucopia of wonders at our Sunday column for the Valley Sun, which finally went up online this morning.

Next ACONA meeting Nov. 1

Save the date: the next meeting of ACONA (Altadena Coalition of Neighborhood Associations) is Tues., Nov. 1, from 7-8:30 PM.

Topics include:

• Athens Waste: get your questions ready -- progress report, and what can be recycled.
• County Public Works: trash in Altadena: how do you get your neighbor to clean up.  Weeds, leaves, dry brush: who do we contact?
• Forming a Neighborhood Watch: how do you do it?

The meeting will be held at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St., in the Community Room.

 

Upgraded Altadena Sheriff's station needs to upgrade TVs

by Carolyn Seitz

As you know, the Altadena Sheriff's Station is finishing up more than a year of reconstruction/ renovation and the Grand Re-Opening Celebration will take place next Saturday.  Stay tuned for an update on a change in time for the Grand Re-Opening.

The leadership team and the deputies at Altadena Station are asking for some help.  Difficult economic times for the County have meant stringent budget cuts for the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. The impact on the renovation project for our Sheriff's Station meant that enough funding was provided to accommodate the reconstruction/renovation and modernization of the Altadena Station, but not enough to also provide upgrades for the televisions in the Station.

Below is a list of televisions the Station needs.  These televisions serve many purposes - staying up to date with local news when emergencies or disasters are in process in our area; to provide access to more training opportunities for the deputies, including online classes in which several deputies could participate at the same time; to provide access for the Altadena Station to video conferencing for groups of deputies and professional staff; and to allow the station to be able to live stream trainings that would occur simultaneously across the County. The station had very old TV's and needs to replace all of them.

Any help would be greatly appreciated and there are three opportunities. An individual or group could purchase all of the televisions and donate/deliver them to the Station, or a group or individual could purchase one of the TV's and deliver it to the Station, or you can make a contribution by writing a check, payable to "Altadena Station Fund" and drop that off at the Station.

The Station did a little research and found the best prices at Best Buy and WalMart. Here's the list of needs:

• Seven 32" Sony Bravia, 720p, 60hz LCD/HD televisions $368 each, to be placed in these offices: Dispatch, Captain, Operations Lieutenant, Detective Lieutenant, Detective Bureau, Community Relations and Training/Scheduling Office.
• One 46" Sony Bravia, 1080p, 60hz, LCD/HD television $898, for the captain's conference room which is also used for Community Advisory Committee, Sheriff's Support Group and Clergy Council meetings

If you can help, please let me know. Even small contributions would be much appreciated and we think that being able to replace the old televisions which were not reinstalled will help assure that our Station has the means to stay productive, well trained, and well connected to informational/training resources when they need it.

Many thanks for your help and many thanks for your continuing partnership with the Altadena Sheriff's Station. Please report suspicious, odd or unusual behavior in our neighborhoods by calling the Station's business line at 626 798-1131 or if there is an emergency or you see a break-in or other crime in process, call 911.

Carolyn Seitz is a community volunteer and member of the Sheriff's Advisory Committee.

Eliot PTA fundraiser at Lincoln Crossing Panda Express

The Eliot Middle School PTA is having a funraiser at Panda Express in Lincoln Crossing this Wed., Sept. 21, and Thurs., Sept. 22.  Take the flyer (click on graphic to expand) on those days, so 20% of your purchase will go to the PTA.

 

Morning jolt

• It's Social: The Social Media Club has rescheduled its next meeting, "How to Map Your Social Graph," to Thurs., Sept. 22, at 11:30 PM.  Meetings are open to all at the Business Technology Center, 2400 Lincoln Ave., and the meeting is free.
• AHS looking for volunteers: A reminder that the Altadena Historical Society is looking for volunteer docents for its "Secrets of Mariposa" tour on Sun., Oct. 23.  Whittier Daily News has the scoop.

 

 

Historical Society tour looks at Altadena's first historian

Altadena Historical Society President Jane Brackman is giving us a little teaser of the historical society's tour of Mariposa next month:

We will be featuring the cottage of Altadena's first historian, Sarah Noble Ives on our East Mariposa Street history tour on Sun., Oct. 23, from 10 AM to 4 PM.  Sarah was not only a noted author but also a landscape painter of some renown.  Her history of Altadena was published by the Historical Society in 1938.  Records indicate that we ordered 200 copies.  They were printed by Vroman’s Publishing at a cost of 85 cents each.  Today the rare book in good condition is worth well over $200.  Two of her paintings are in the collection of the Altadena Library.

On Oct. 23, 2011, Sarah’s house, along with the grand craftsman home built by the Chamberlain family will be open for docent-led tours.  In addition, the walking tour of Mariposa Street from Lake to Maiden Lane will include histories of the Neustadt/McClintock house (today in near original condition), a Greene and Greene designed cottage and the Markham mansion.  

To purchase tickets go to  http://altadenahistoricalsocietytour.eventbrite.com/  or call 626-797-8016 or send a check to Altadena Historical Society Tour, 730 E. Altadena Drive, Altadena, CA 91001

Tickets are $15 for members, $20 for non-members, and $25 at the door.

Ralphs may close Sunday if strike is called

Several news outlets are saying that the Ralphs grocery store chain could close as soon as Sunday night if it fails to come to an agreement with the grocery worker's union. 

According to Business Week:

Ralphs spokeswoman Kendra Doyel said her company remained committed to reaching an agreement, but if there was a strike, the company won't ask customers to cross a picket line to shop.

"If there is a strike, Ralphs will initially close all of our stores," said Doyel in a statement. "During a strike, it is difficult to create a good shopping experience for our Customers and a good working environment for our Employees."

Vons and Albertsons will also be affected by a strike, but have said they will remain open.

At issue is an agreement about health care contributions: the grocery stores have been unwilling to change the current agreement, where grocery workers make a contribution toward coverage.  The union, which has been negotiating with the grocery stores for the past eight months, canceled a contract extension Thursday, leaving the possibility of a strike after 72 hours had passed.

In August, the 62,000 union members authorized a strike if an agreement can't be reached.

The groceries stores and union last came to blows in 2003, which resulted in a several month lockout.

 

Aveson Global Leadership Academy seeks more students

Kate Bean, executive director of the Aveson Schools, says there is some room on their new campus:

We are excited to announce Aveson Global Leadership Academy (Grades 6-12) is up and running at our new location at 1206 Lincoln Ave, Pasadena, CA 91103. Aveson Global Leadership Academy is beginning its 5th year as a free public charter school.

With our new, larger location, Aveson has room for more students than we have had in previous years.   We are asking our community to spread the word regarding immediate enrollment opportunities in grades 6-12.  Here are some of the highlights of our school.

Results for families and students

• College and Career Readiness
• Academic Performance Index 740
• Safe and supportive small school (250 students)
• 20-25 students per English Language Arts class
• 10-15 students per Math class
• Individualized Learning Plans
• 95% Graduate Rate
• 90% College Acceptance Rate

Those interested in enrolling their students should contact Aveson Global Leadership Academy at:

Phone: 626.797.1438
Email: admissions@aveson.org

 

HB3 returns to the Folly Bowl next Saturday

HB3 (Hugh Bonar and his piccolo bass) will perform at the Folly Bowl next Sat., Sept. 24.

The performance will feature a premiere of his new work, "Poseidon: Fantasia for Piccolo Bass."

The concert is $5 suggested donation, and starts at 8 PM.

The Folly Bowl is at 1601 E. Loma Alta Dr.  Bring a picnic and blanket, and pack out what you bring in.

Also: Jeremiah Small was at the last Folly Bowl concert, and got some video of the free jazz stylings of Stan Wood with "Unpopable": Wood plays the "vibraband" (a rubber band), and Addi plays the balloon bass.  It's something to see and hear!  After the jump.

Moon rocks, robots, toys in space: JPL/NASA offers programs for educators

Some upcoming workshops for K-12 teachers from JPL and NASA -- you always wanted to bring moon rocks to class, didn't you?  All workshops are held at the NASA/JPL Educator Resource Center in Pomona.

NASA Lunar and Meteorite Sample Certification Program
Saturday, Oct. 15, 2011

Overview: NASA makes actual lunar samples from the historic Apollo missions available to lend to teachers. Attend this certification workshop to bring the excitement of real lunar rocks and regolith samples to your students. This workshop is being offered at the NASA/JPL Educator Resource Center located in Pomona, Calif. Please call 909-397-4420 to reserve your spot.

Robotics
Saturday, Nov. 12, 2011

Overview: Did you know that at JPL we talk to Mars robots every day? Discover how engineers use animals to design robots. Come see the exciting extent that we use robotics today and look into the future for space and medicine. Make and take inexpensive classroom activities and bring technology into your classroom! This workshop is being offered at the NASA/JPL Educator Resource Center located in Pomona, please call 909-397-4420 to reserve your spot.

Go For Flight!
Saturday, Dec. 10, 2011

Overview: Math and science come alive as you construct aircraft models (kite, helicopter and glider), and launch rockets! Use questioning strategies and redesign to make these activities educationally challenging! This workshop is being offered at the NASA/JPL Educator Resource Center located in Pomona, please call 909-397-4420 to reserve your spot.

Toys In Space ll
Saturday, Jan. 21, 2012

Overview: View the educational video "Toys in Space II," which was taped during the flight of STS-54. The video shows astronauts on the space shuttle and students back on Earth co-investigating the behavior of toys in space. Video program segments show the toys' behavior in 1G (Earth's gravity) and then their behavior in the microgravity environment of space! This workshop is being offered at the NASA/JPL Educator Resource Center located in Pomona, please call 909-397-4420 to reserve your spot.

For more information and directions, visit: http://www.jpl.nasa.gov/education/index.cfm?page=115

Hatha/Kundalini classes at Sue B Dance Tuesdays

Susan Nishizawa, a certified Hatha and Kundalini yoga teacher, Yoga Alliance member and Reiki Practitioner, his holding new yoga classes at the Sue B Dance Studio at 2525 N. Lake Ave.

The style is a combination of classical Hatha and Kundalini Yoga which involves postures (asanas), pranayama (breath work), mudras (hand positions), mantras (chanting), and meditations that will calm the mind, relax the body and increase your energy level.

The Hatha/Kundalini Yoga classes cover all levels and will be every Tuesday morning from 9-10:15 AM.  Come a little early to sign in and set up, and bring a yoga mat, blanket, and some water.  Cost is $12 per class, cash or checks only.

Call t (310)435-6075 or visit her website http://www.susannishizawa.com/index.html for more information.

 

Found cat, Lake Ave./Alameda St. [UPDATE]

Camille writes:

I found this adorable little kitten crawling along our fence near our trash cans Sunday the 4th of September.  I've canvassed the neighborhood, put out signs, posted on Face Book and emailed to all my friends but have not been able to find him a home yet.  I'm not able to take in another cat.  He is about 2 or 3 months old, sweet, affectionate, Siamese mix with beautiful blue eyes and full of energy.  Other than that I know no history on him.  I figured he must belong to someone in the neighborhood because he is so young but no one has claimed him.  I found him near Lake Avenue and Alameda Street in Altadena.   He wasn't hungry and seemed to be well fed.  My phone number is 626 398-7395

UPDATE: Camille says she delivered the kitten to Julie (818) 943-1601 at  Southern California Cat Adoptions: "The kitten is going to be fostered until they find a permanent home for him.  So if anyone is interested they might want to contact her." 

Foothill Water District meeting at La Canada Flintridge Mon., 3 PM

The Foothill Water District will have its regular Monday meeting at 3 PM at their headquarters, 4536 Hampton Rd., La Canada Flintridge.  Agenda is after the jump.

Note: yes, we misidentified the water district earlier.  It's been that kind of week!

Busy days ...

We've got a little catch-up to do: some family business has been taking a LOT of time (and we'll share it with you later, as it's ending up to be a fun story).  All we'll say is Hollywood is calling one of our spawn, and it's ending up being an interesting call ...

Altadena Comedy Festival returns to Coffee Gallery Sept. 30/Oct. 1

Mark your calendars for Sept. 30-Oct. 1, as the Altadena Comedy Festival comes back, bigger than ever, to the Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake Avenue, according to executive producer John Heinsen. 

Heinsen, who is producing with Coffee Gallery owner Julie Sandoval, said that there will be two themed days of shows, with tickets ranging from $5 to $15, with proceeds going to military families.

Fri., Sept. 30 will be "Sketch and Improv Day," and Sat., Oct. 1, will be "Stand-up Day."  In addition to comedy, there will be magic and other entertainment, and a re-creation of a contemporary USO comedy show as might be seen in Iraq or Afghanistan today.

Heinsen said that the comedy festival will also honor Bob Hope with the "Echo Award," named after Echo Mountain, given to a deceased master comedian.

Heinsen promised that the full schedule of events and performers will be locked down this weekend.  Keep checking their website or Facebook page for details.

PUSD board members clash over agendas

By Joe Piasecki
Pasadena Sun

Simmering tensions among Pasadena Board of Education members boiled over this week with accusations that some members have stifled attempts to raise controversial ideas for public discussion.

In hopes of reaching détente, the board will make the agenda-setting process more public.

“This will reinstitute faith in the process,” board member Ramon Miramontes said. Miramontes had accused board President Renatta Cooper of withholding debate on expansion of charter schools and renegotiating union labor contracts.

Miramontes wants officials to consider changing Washington Middle School, which has failed to meet federal academic improvement standards for 10 years, into a district-sponsored charter school.

He’s also pushing to renegotiate union contracts to require as much as 50% employment of local workers in school construction projects — a topic initially raised more than a year ago.

Cooper said both topics were delayed because of lack of staff reports following the exodus last school year of the district’s previous facilities director and superintendent.

Board members on Tuesday ranked the priorities of dozens of backburner topics by written ballot, with consensus that Supt. Jon Gundry would deliver scheduling proposals at the next meeting.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

Altadena Library holds free parent/child workshop series starting Sept. 27

by Cassandra Stearns
Senior Librarian, Children's Services
Altadena Library District

The Altadena Library is offering a free five week workshop for parents of children ages three and younger. The Parent-Child Workshop is a one-to-one program and will be held at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. on Tuesdays, Sept. 27-Oct. 25 at 6:30 PM. The workshop features toys, crafts, books and play. Community resource professionals will be on hand to discuss weekly topics and to answer parenting questions and concerns. In-person pre-registration at the library is required. Space is limited to 25 registered children between the ages of 6 months-41 months and their parents/caregiver. Older siblings up to age 5 may also attend.

The Altadena Library is a Family Place library. The Parent/Child Workshop, a core component of Family Place Libraries, is offered each fall and spring. This five-week workshop helps families with young children come together with community resource professionals to get the support and guidance they need.

The Family Place Program is a statewide initiative that helps create family/early childhood space in the children’s area of local public libraries. Modeled on the national Family Place initiative, the California Family Place Program is supported by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act, administered in California by the State Librarian.

For more information please contact the Children’s Services Department at 626-798-0833.

 

“In Their Own Words” video highlights First Presbyterian/Altadena's Fall Festival

The First Presbyterian Church invites the community to share in the celebration of its Fall Festival, Sat., Sept. 24 on the church grounds at 2775 Lincoln Avenue, Altadena. This family oriented celebration includes children’s games, delicious food, entertainment and a learning opportunity.  

During the afternoon a new video entitled, “In Their Own Words” will be shown featuring the “life experiences” of church members who endured the internment Camps during World War II. The First Presbyterian Church rejoices both in its proud history as the center of the Japanese-American community in the Pasadena area and its on-going ministry of providing a welcoming fellowship for a diversity of people.

The “In Their Own Words” video tells the story of over 100,000 Japanese-Americans who were removed from their homes and interned in camps spread across the western United States. The video reveals that many of those who as young people had their education cut short and their career preparation disrupted now view these challenges from a new perspective. The video features the experiences of Miki Kumamoto, Hank Hayashi, Jim Ishii, Toki Matsumoto, Helen Nakagawa, Jim & Miye Nishimoto, Henry Takamura, and Bill & Lili Yamamoto.   

The theme for this year’s Festival, “Renew, Reconnect and Restore - In God’s Blessing” broadly points to the living history of Japanese Americans, which the video features. This living history is a gift to residents of the Altadena/Pasadena area and is an opportunity for every one, but most especially families with children to learn about the history of their community.  Children’s games and food booths will open at 3 PM., a teriyaki chicken and beef dinner will be served throughout the afternoon and evening and the “In Their Own Words” video will be shown in the sanctuary.  The festivities will conclude with a Hula Dancing performance at 7 PM. Admission is free.    

 

Eaton Canyon rescue -- a look from above

We're sharing this video of the rescue of one of last weekend's errant hikers, taken from inside the sheriff's Air 5 rescue helicopter.  What a bunch of pros they are (they've had a lot of practice lately!)

------

 

Hike the Mt. Lowe Railway with AFC Saturday, Sept. 17

from the Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy

Meet at Pleasantridge Drive and Rubio Vista Drive in Altadena at 9 a.m. Sat., Sept. 17 for a hike along the former route of the Mount Lowe Railway in Rubio Canyon. Learn about the history of the railway, which brought Angelenos to popular resorts on Mount Lowe and Echo Mountain at the turn of the 19th century. 

The trail is about a mile each way. The hike is demanding at points, with several high narrow steps near a sheer drop and a scramble over rocks in the creek near the end.

 

This is the first in a series of 11 fall hikes led by the Arroys & Foothills Conservancy, a local nonproft. For the full schedule, click here: http://arroyosfoothills.squarespace.com/docent-led-hikes/

 

Arroyo Pacific Academy on town council agenda Tuesday [UPDATED]

The Altadena Town Council will consider the Arroyo Pacific Academy's request for a conditional use permit Tuesday night.

The council's land use committee turned down the request in a packed, emotional meeting Sept. 6, and expect more of the same Tuesday.

There will also be some discussion of a roadway project along several Altadena streets, and two possible candidates to fill a vacancy in Census Tract 4603.01 will introduce themselves.  The vacancy is expected to be filled at the meeting.

It's all at the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Dr., starting at 7 PM Sept. 20.

UPDATE 8 PM: Per councilman Greg Middleton, there seems to be some possibility now that the Arroyo Pacific hearing will be delayed.  We'll let you know once we do!

UPDATE 9/16:  Per Greg Middleton, agenda will go on as scheduled, Arroyo Pacific is on it.

 

Social Media Club looks at mapping your social graph at BTS Sept. 22

The Social Media Club of San Gabriel Valley (SMC SGV) and the LA County Business Technology Center (BTC) are hosting a Social Media Week event on Thurs., Sept. 22, that will cover new tools that can be used to do a social media audit and extract business intelligence from the online conversations 

The luncheon meeting is at the BTC, 2400 Lincoln Ave., Altadena, from 11.30 AM – 1 PM.

Speaker is  Sally Falkow APR, PR Trainer of the Year:

Although most companies have moved from the experimentation phase to the integration of social media with their marketing and customer service, research shows that only 35 percent are monitoring the online conversations and although the number is increasing every year, just 40 percent are measuring their social media ROI.

One way to get ROI from social media is to do a social media audit and use the online conversations as a research pool.   The recent digital Crisis Preparedness study from Burson-Marstellar showed that 65 percent of the companies polled do not know who the key online thought leaders are among their customers or in the social digerati, yet these are the people who will shape the narrative around a brand and amplify messages – positive or negative. Most companies do not know how how to map their social grap

The SMC SGV meetings are open to the public.

La Canada pays more than Altadena for trash service

Jose Salcido from Athens Services collects trash around the 1300 block of W. Green Lane in La Canada Flintridge early Tuesday morning, September 13, 2011. (Raul Roa/ ValleySun Staff Photographer)

By Daniel Siegal

Valley Sun

Residents of La Cañada Flintridge can choose the company that hauls their trash, but in doing so, they might be choosing higher prices. Even with Athens Services and Allied Waste Services competing, and new hauler NASA soon to be offering its services as well, La Cañada residents are paying more than Altadena residents.

The Los Angeles County Public Works Department on Sept. 1 entered its new exclusive contract for service in unincorporated Altadena with Athens, which charges $54 a quarter for basic three-can service, compared to quarterly prices of $89.68 for Allied and $91.11 for Athens in La Cañada. La Cañada’s contracts with Athens and Allied were renewed at the end of 2010 and expire in 2014.

Thor Schmidt, general manager of Athens Services, said that many factors affect pricing, from geography and distance from their facilities to what types of waste are most common. However, Schmidt said that in the case of the new Altadena contract, its length — 10 years — and exclusivity meant Athens could amortize the costs of new trucks, which are required to be run on compressed natural gas, and new cans. 

More at the Valley Sun.

 

Weekendin'; Sept. 15-18

Keep checking back as more comes in ..

Thurs., Sept. 15

• Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake; front stage, open mic night, starts 8 PM, free; backstage, The Salty Suites, with special guests The Wimberley Bluegrass Band (folk/country/bluegrass)  8 PM.  Tickets: $15. Reservations:  (626) 798-6236.

Fri., Sept. 16

• Teen Flick at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St., 3:30 PM Movie: Thor (rated PG-13);  This epic adventure spans the Marvel Universe; from present day Earth to the realm of Asgard. At the center of the story is The Mighty Thor, a powerful but arrogant warrior whose reckless actions reignite an ancient war. 
• Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake;  backstage, Michael Chapdelaine (guitar), 8 PM.  Tickets: $18. Reservations:  (626) 798-6236.

Sat., Sept. 17

• Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy hiking series begins with docent Lyle Hatridge following the route of the Mt. Lowe Railway to the Rubio Incline.  Hike: about a mile each way, demanding at points, with several high narrow steps near a sheer drop and a scramble over rocks in the creek near the end.  Meet at Pleasantridge Drive and Rubio Vista Drive.
• Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake;  backstage, ElderLocke, with special guest Severin Brown, 7 PM is sold out, but a second show was added at 9:30.  Tickets: $15. Reservations:  (626) 798-6236.
• The Allan Wasserman Jazz Ensemble does Motown at Pinocchio's Pizza, 1449 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena, starting at 8 PM.  Cover is $3.50.
• The Altadena Ale & Wine House, 2329 N. Fair Oaks,  celebrates the blues from 8-11:30 PM.
• Bulgarini Gelato will have Italian movie night with "Un Americano a Roma" (An American in Rome) with Alberto Sordi.  Show begins at dark.

Sun., Sept. 18

• Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake; backstage matinee, Tapestry (tribute to Carole King), 3 PM, $15;  Tracy Grammer (folk), 7 PM, $18; front stage, open mic night, starts 8 PM, free;  Reservations:  (626) 798-6236.

 

Family extends thanks for Jones burial fundraiser

We received this note from LaTanya Anthony about the recent fundraiser for the Marcus Jones burial, and directed at all those who helped out:

This is just a small note to show my appreciation, and to say thank you for all you have done. Because of you and the Christ the Shepherd Church, the Altadena community showed their support to our Aunt Sheila, and gave $568.00, to assist her with the funeral services for her son Marcus Jones.

The outpouring of love and care really touched my heart, and was a true enforcer that Altadena is a community that truly supports its own. The money raised was used to assist with his burial at Mtn. View Cemetery, and was just was she needed to pay the remaining balance.

On behalf of Sheila Jones, and all of the friends of Marcus Jones, again I say thank you. We couldn't have done it without you. Thanks for ensuring our friend is resting peacefully with Jesus.

Yep, it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas Tree Lane: Light's Up starts Oct. 8

Elizabeth Nelson at the Christmas Tree Lane Association says it's that time of year:

This is to ask you to please join your neighbors and friends beginning Oct. 8 from 9 AM to 12 PM for “Lights Up”. As long as the weather permits, we will be putting lights in the trees every Saturday and Sunday thereafter from 9 to 12 until all the trees are finished. In the morning you will be greeted with donuts, coffee and hot chocolate and after 12:00 lunch will be served.

We will be starting at the top of Christmas Tree Lane (Santa Rosa and Altadena Drive) and working our way down every weekend until finished.

Two things to know before you come: 

1)      If you are bringing a group of more than 5 on any weekend and plan to stay and have lunch, PLEASE call (626) 403-1123 or E-Mail us beforehand so that we will have enough food for everyone;

2)      We can only move as fast as our tree climbers, so, if you would be willing to climb about one story up a ladder, please tell us when you come and we will show you what to do. (To get an idea of the height, go to any tree on the Lane, look up and see the metal box…that’s about how far up you’d need to go).

If you have any further questions about the specifics of screwing in bulbs and hanging lines in the trees, give us a call.

Thank you and we hope to see you on the Lane!!

 

Night flight delay sparks criticism

L.A. County supervisor Mike Antonovich talks during a press conference at the Hansen Dam command center for the Station fire on Sunday, August 31, 2009. (Roger Wilson/ Pasadena Sun)

By Tiffany Kelly
Pasadena Sun

 

More than two years after the devastation of the Station fire, local elected officials continue to apply heat to the U.S. Forest Service over preparations for firefighting night flights over rugged terrain in the Angeles Crest Forest.

On Sept. 9 Los Angeles County Supervisor Michael Antonovich sent a letter to Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) criticizing the Forest Service for delaying completion of a study that could lead to a night-time aerial firefighting program.

“Ineffective at fighting wildfires on the urban-wildlife interface, their prohibition of night-flying aircraft prevented early containment [of the Station fire] as county fire pilots waited anxiously on the tarmac,” Antonovich wrote.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

Found cat near the Meadows

Reader Tonya found a black and grey tabby cat with a white chest hiding in a tree at the hairpin turn at Canyon Crest Road, near the Meadows.  Please call 626.993.4383 if you can get Kitty home.

Another door-knock burglary Wednesday

by Carolyn Seitz

Sheriff Lt. Joseph Dempsey is reporting that a residential burglary occurred this morning at approximately 11:05 AM, in the 2500 block of North Allen Avenue.

The suspects are described as three male Hispanics believed to have been driving a dark gray sedan.

The suspects knocked on the front door of the residence.  A young adult was in the home at the time but did not acknowledge the knocking by letting the persons at the door know they were inside the residence.  They also did not open the door.

The suspects went into the backyard and broke a window to gain entry into the residence.  The young resident heard the window break and left through the front door and ran away, called their father who was nearby, and the father returned home immediately and called 911.

Lieutenant Dempsey is reminding all of us to respond to people who knock on your door so they know someone is there. 

Criminals do not want to encounter you or anyone inside your residence. 

They will move on to the next house looking for residences with no one home.

There have been no reported instances in which criminals have broken into a home when they knew someone was inside.

If someone knocks on your door or rings your doorbell, please let your presence be known and if the person knocking on your door isn't someone known to you or someone you were expecting, please call the Sheriff's Station at 626 798 1131, or if you suspect that someone is trying to break into your home, call 911 and report what you observed.

Please don't let that knock on your door go unanswered. 

As always, stay safe!

Sheriff's station ribbon-cutting ceremony Sept. 24

The Altadena Sheriff's Station, 780 E. Altadena Dr., will have a grand re-opening and ribbon cutting ceremony next Sat., Sept. 24, from 10 AM-2 PM.

Sheriff Lee Baca and Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich will join station Capt. Steven McLean to officially re-open the station after $1.3 million in renovations.  Click on the graphic for more information.

 

Waldorf School sponsors talk on brain research and learning Sept. 30

The Pasadena Waldorf School (which is in Altadena, but you knew that)  is sponsoring a talk by Douglas Gerwin, Ph.D.,  "Turning Education on Its Head: What Modern Brain Research Says About How Children and Young Adults Learn" on Fri. Sept. 30:

Recent neuro-scientific research shows that the brain behaves less like a “hard-wired” computer, more like a dense forest in which pathways appear through repeated use and disappear through neglect. The implications for education of this paradigm shift are huge, especially since the cortical functions of children and young adults do not fully develop until they reach their early 20s.

In this ground-breaking talk, Douglas Gerwin, Ph.D. explores how Waldorf education helps children and adolescents unfold their powers of intelligence through a curriculum designed to nourish their developmental needs from pre-school through the high school years.

Douglas Gerwin, Director of the Center for Anthroposophy, has taught history, literature, German, music, and life science at the Waldorf high school level since 1983. He presently divides his time between adult education and teaching in various North American Waldorf schools. Douglas is the founder of the Waldorf High School Teacher Education Program at the Center for Anthroposophy and editor of several books related to Waldorf education.

The talk will be held at the Vosloh Forum at Pasadena City College, 1570 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, at 7 PM Fri., Sept. 30.  Tickets are $10, adults only.  Register at www.pasadenawaldorf.org

 

 

Allan Wasserman Ensemble celebrates Motown Sat. at Pinocchio's

The Allan Wasserman Jazz Ensemble does Motown on Sat., Sept. 17, at Pinocchio's Pizza, 1449 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena, starting at 8 PM.  Cover is $3.50, which is pretty reasonable for great music well-played.