altadenablog

CASA seeks volunteer children's advocates

CASA of Los Angeles (Court Appointed Special Advocates) will host an information session for interested volunteers at Robinson Park in Pasadena on Tues., Sept. 20, from 6-7:30 PM. Robinson Park is located at 1081 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena, CA 91103. 

Each month in Los Angeles County, more than 800 children enter the Dependency Court, or foster care, system. These are children who have been removed from their parent’s custody because of severe abuse, neglect or abandonment. A judge must make all of the important decisions about each foster child’s life, such as where the child lives, goes to school, whom the child may see, and what health care, therapy and educational services should be provided for the child. 

CASA of Los Angeles supports volunteers who help abused and neglected foster children in court and the community. A CASA, or Court Appointed Special Advocate, is a trained and supervised volunteer, appointed by a judge to advocate for  these children. A CASA volunteer provides an independent investigation of the child’s circumstances for the judge. The CASA gathers information, writes reports, and makes recommendations to the judge. CASA volunteers advocate for what they believe to be in the child’s best interests.

For more information, call 323-526-6666, or email at volunteer@casala.org.  Website: www.casala.org

 

Three Altadena businesses will take your dead batteries

Three businesses in Altadena are participating in a pilot program that will take and recycle your dead household batteries.

The local battery drop-off sites are:

• Altadena Hardware, 849 East Mariposa Street
• Masters Building Supply, 370 East Woodbury Road
• Webster’s Liquor, 2450 Lake Avenue

The Altadena businesses are part of a local government pilot program to make it more convenient for consumers to recycle batteries. The San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments (SGVCOG) received a $395,966 grant from the Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle)  to start a the program, which aims to take batteries out of the waste stream.

Batteries have been banned from California landfills since 2006 because batteries waste valuable metals like zinc and cadmium, and can degrade soil and contaminate groundwater.  The Call2Recycle® program pays for all disposal costs associated with the battery recycling. This take-back process reduces costs to the public because battery producers pay for the shipping and recycling.  

Residents can bring any household batteries (rechargeable or alkaline that weigh less than 11 lbs.) and cell phones to the take-back locations. This means that old lithium-ion cell phone and camera batteries along with traditional AAA-D batteries can be brought to the same convenient take-back location. Signs on store windows identify take-back locations.  Customers can turn in their batteries at the marked battery recycling boxes inside the store. Simple instructions on how to safely recycle batteries are located on each take-back box. Full boxes of batteries are mailed to recycling facilities at no charge to the participating businesses.  

For more information about the battery recycling program or to find a take-back location near you go to www.SGVCOG.org/batteryrecycling or contact Nicholas Conway, SGVCOG Executive Director at (626) 457-1800. To learn more about extended producer responsibility or California Product Stewardship Council go to www.calpsc.org or contact Heidi Sanborn, CPSC Executive Director at (916) 480-9010. For more information about CalRecycle go to www.calrecycle.ca.gov.

Morning jolt: fashion show in Sierra Madre, men's health, and Arroyo bike rally

• Fashion for the ages: Tickets are available now for the Fabulous Fall Fashion Show and Tea sponsored by the Sierra Madre Historical Preservation Society on Sat., Oct. 15. Costume designer Shon Le Blanc will narrate a fashion show based on the photographs in the award-winning book, Southern California: Seeking the Better Life in Sierra Madre, written by Altadena's Michele Zack. To complement this unique show, the Society will serve a sumptuous tea consisting of finger sandwiches, hearty appetizers, scones, including a special orange marmalade cake as one of the desserts.  The event is in celebration of the Sierra Madre Historical Preservation Society's 80th Anniversary. Tickets are $40 and are tax deductible and are available in Sierra Madre at  Arnold’s Hardware, Savor the Flavor, Sierra Madre Library, Mary’s Market and Prudential Reality, and from SMHPS Board members. For more information: call 626 355 1389 or visit www.smhs.org. 
• Men's health meeting: Men Educating Men About Health (MEMAH) will have a meeting on Sat. Sept. 17, from 10 AM-noon at the Community Center, Fair Oaks Renaissance Plaza, 615 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena (second floor).   MEMAH is a nonprofit organization created by a group of men and directed to men, dedicated to raising the awareness, importance and understanding of men's health issues. For more information, call 626-389-2758.
• Cycling the Arroyo: Tour de Arroyo II will take place on Sun., Sept. 18.  Gather at 9 AM at Memorial Park, Pasadena, and bike to the rally at Los Angeles State Historic Park (the Cornfield) at 10:30 AM.  The Southern California Prestige Series of Cyclocross bike festival will be taking place at the park as well.  The Tour de Arroyo promotes the vision of a bikeway for fun and commuting between Pasadena and Los Angeles.  (You and your bike can take the Gold LIne back!) More information: http://bike.arroyoseco.org/

 

Crash with minor injuries at Lake Ave./NY Drive Monday night

Sheriffs, fire, and paramedics were called in to a crash Monday night at Lake Avenue and New York Drive.  Photo by community correspondent Bo Astrup/Altadenablog.

There was a solo car crash near the intersection of Lake Avenue and New York Drive Monday night at about 10:15.

The Los Angeles County Fire Department said they were called to a crash at the intersection where a car had rolled over on its side.  Unconfirmed scanner traffic said that injuries were minor, and the fire department said that they had no record of an injured person transported by paramedics.  More as we get it.

 

First look: renovated sheriff's station ready for its close-up

Pictured: one of the features preserved during the Altadena sheriff's station $1.3 million renovation was the classic neon sign.

by Timothy Rutt

After over a year of renovations causing inconvenience and disruption for both deputies and the public, Altadena Sheriff's Station 7 will soon be ready for its close-up.

The 1940's vintage building had a $1.3 million facelift that will not only give the deputies a better place to work, but will better serve the public with its large, open lobby and a public restroom.

Deputy Mary DeBella gave us a first look at some of the changes last week, even though there are still some rough spots (some rear windows are covered by cardboard).  The public will get a chance to see it during the grand opening ceremony and tours on Sat., Sept. 24, starting at 10 AM.

Pictured: the 2011 exterior, and the building shortly after its 1949 opening.  The vestibule was eliminated in the renovations in order to enlarge the lobby. Photo: Timothy Rutt/Altadenablog

The changes start with the front lobby, which has stone tile flooring and a public restroom.  The floor includes a mosaic of a Los Angeles County sheriff's badge encicled by a border that says "Altadena Sheriff's Station."  Such a mosaic is a first in the county, DeBella said.

More after the jump.

Altadena Crest Trails looks at Brown Mountain access, Millard Canyon pipeline

The Altadena Crest Trail Restoration Working Group (ACTRWG) meets tonight at 7 PM at the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Dr.

Two major items on the agenda, according to ACTRWG's Robert Staehle:

1.  Maintenance (or lack thereof) of Brown Mt. Fire Road, including portion of road that is emergency escape and Fire Dept. access linking Chaney Trail to Millard Canyon campground and Upper Risinghill Road (evacuation route for the Chaney Trail Neighborhood, The Meadows and Upper El Prieto Canyon residents). Trail / road maintenance and grading, including repair to the Millard Creek crossing.

-- First hand reports, photos of the fire road (before the Station Fire and current conditions), and images of the stream crossing in Millard Cyn Campground would be helpful. 

2.  “Lincoln Avenue Water Company Project” Environmental Assessment (EA), public comment due 30 September to USFS re:  permit USFS renewals / agency permit acquisitiom and pipeline replacement and reroute along Mount Lowe Fire Road.

 

The Lincoln Avenue Water Company is planning to replace about 1,400 feet of century-old pipeline in Millard Canyon.

Suspicious encounter on Lincoln/Ventura

One of our readers who lives near Ventura and Lincoln Ave.  had this encounter late Monday afternoon:

I saw a suspicious man crossing my lawn.  I just got home from the store so my door was unlocked.  I ran to the door and locked it.  He knocked.  I went to the sliding glass door in the dining room and asked if I could help him.  He mumbled a lot and said he needed some water. 

I live down a private driveway.  It is very difficult to even find our house from the street.  If he truly needed water any other house would be a better place to start.  I asked him to repeat himself.  He got belligerent and wanted water.  I had my two young kids home so I wasn't about to open the door.  I told him sorry but he was welcome to help himself to the hose.  He shook his head no.  I gave him a look back, "I'm calling the cops."  He then said, "I better go."  He left.  I called the cops.

He is a Latino man w/ goatee.  White t-shirt.  Long, colorful shorts.  He was carrying a Super King bag.

Morning jolt: coyotes and mosquitos

• Coyotes in Glendale: Mark Kellam at the Pasadena Sun has a story about a family of coyotes that has moved into a vacant, burned-out home in north Glendale.  The Brockmont Drive home has been unoccupied since November, and a coyote family has moved in and raised its pups there.  Officials are looking to trap and euthanize the creatures.
• Invasive mosquito: Officials say that the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) was identified in El Monte last week.  It's a small, day-biting mosquito with distinctive black-and-white banding, and is not native.  The San Gabriel Valley Vector Control District will start an information campaign to inform the community.  For more information: http://www.sgvmosquito.org/news.html

 

Public hearings on Devil's Gate cleanout EIR Oct. 5 and 15

The Los Angeles Department of Public Works is holding two public hearings as it prepares an environmental impact report on removing sediment behind the Devil's Gate Dam, i.e. in the Hahamongna Watershed.

The hearings will be:

Wed., Oct. 5, 6:30-8:30 PM at the Rose Bowl Stadium Visitor's Locker Room, 1001 Rose Bowl Dr. (Park in Lot F, enter at Gate A).

Sat., Oct. 15, 9 AM-11 AM at La Canada High School Cafeteria, 4463 Oak Grove Dr., La Canada Flintridge.

For more information: www.lasedimentmanagement.com/devilsgate

 

UC Extension offers October Victory Garden classes

The University of California Extension will hold classes to become a Certified UC Victory Gardener in October.

Part of the Master Gardener program, the classes will take place in the Coral Learning Garden, 2750 E. New York Dr., Pasadena on four Sundays: Oct. 2, 9, 16, and 23, from 3-6 PM. 

Cost is $50 for the four days.  Space is limited, and you are registered only when your fee has been received. To register or for more information, contact instructor Mark Rice at mark.rice@alumni.usc.edu or 626-272-2752.

 

Altadena Chamber mixer at Body Freedom, Sept. 29

The Altadena Chamber of Commerce monthly mixer will be Thurs. Sept. 29 at Body Freedom, Tarnie Fulloon's therapy practice, 1270 Morada Pl., from 5:30-7:30 PM.  Members are $5, and guests $7.  Bring a raffle prize and receive commercial time to promote your business.

New York Drive dedication a day of remembrance

Pictured: 2nd Battalion, 23rd Marines Cpl. Charles Park plays Taps at the end of dedication of New York Drive as a memorial to 9/11. Photo: Raul Roa/Pasadena Sun

by Bill Westphal

A stretch of New York Drive in Pasadena was dedicated as a memorial to the victims of 9/11 on Sunday, the tenth anniversary of the tragic event.  The dedication was well attended.  Numerous police, fire, and military personnel were on hand along with the usual government dignitaries.  More pictures after the jump.

Three rescued in Eaton Canyon Sunday night

The Los Angeles Sheriff's Department rescued three hikers from a cliff face at Eaton Canyon Sunday night, according to a statement from the office.

At about 5 PM a call came in that three hikers were "clinging to a cliff 100 feet above the canyon floor and unable to move," according to the report.  Rescue workers were lowered to each victim from the Air 5 helicopter to pluck them from the cliff face. 

All three hikers were uninjured and released at the scene, the report said.

 

Poetry corner: food trucks amok

Poetry Correspondent Gloriana Casey strikes again with another timely verse:

" Dear County: About those .." Huddled Masses Yearning To Breathe Free!"

 from gloriana casey  9-11-11

We HUNGER for a place to meet,
all of Altadena!
So let's all join to make it work.
 In  rhyming scheme, my DREAMA!

For Fancy Food Trucks bring to all
a chance to  celebrate.
So government, join with us now,
 hard times enjoin our fate!

Open thread: ten years after 9/11

We were getting our daughter ready to deliver to first grade when Grandma called and told us to turn on the television.  Some time later, our boss called -- we worked in a tall building in downtown LA, and he told us no one was going to work today, stay home.  Just as well -- we spent the day glued to the television, and when we couldn't take it any more, played minor-key improvisations on the guitar until we could go back to the television again.  We had two brothers who lived in Manhattan, and couldn't reach them -- they spent the afternoon on the roof of their apartment staring in horror, and listening to the military planes that took over the airspace after the collapse.  Then they realized they should probably tell people they were OK.

What happened to you? What's changed?  Comments are open.

 

Teachers: launch Into the school year with NASA/JPL

from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Take your students along for the ride as NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory embarks on one of its busiest years of launches and mission events yet! We’ve made it easy with our 2011 Classroom Launch Pad ( http://1.usa.gov/o178jH ), a handy list of classroom activities and resources directly tied in to key mission and science concepts and aligned with national science and math standards.

Study the ocean’s role in climate change with NASA’s Aquarius mission; follow the Juno mission on its journey to peer beneath the clouds of Jupiter; take a closer look at the moon’s interior with GRAIL; join the Dawn mission’s investigation of the giant asteroid Vesta; and prepare for launch with the next Mars rover, Curiosity.

The 2011 Classroom Launch Pad also features links to educational online and mobile apps, games and additional resources from NASA/JPL, including the Space Images app, Eyes on the Solar System, the Build a Space Mission game and JPL’s Educator Resource Center.

Keep your class engaged in space and science all year long with our newest feature: One Smart Thing, fun factoids from real JPL scientists, engineers, tour guides and other in-the-know personalities. Look for one of these interesting tidbits each Wednesday on Facebook ( http://www.facebook.com/NASAJPLStudents ) and Twitter ( http://twitter.com/#!/NASAJPL_Edu ). Or sign up to receive them automatically by text message. Simply text JPLSMART to 67463 to subscribe. (Message and data rates may apply. Must be 18 or older to subscribe.)

Want to hear from other teachers? Jessica Potter, who participated in this summer’s CSU STAR program, which gives aspiring teachers an opportunity to gain hands-on research experience, shares her story and tips at http://www.jpl.nasa.gov/education/index.cfm?page=290#juno . Read more about the STAR program and find out how you can get involved, here: http://www.jpl.nasa.gov/education/index.cfm?page=291 .

Remembering 9/11: the tribute on Mars

Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/Cornell University

from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory

The piece of metal with the American flag on it in this image of a NASA rover on Mars is made of aluminum recovered from the site of the World Trade Center towers in the weeks after their destruction. The piece serves as a cable guard for the rock abrasion tool on NASA's Mars Exploration Rover Spirit as well as a memorial to the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. An identical piece is on the twin rover, Opportunity.The rock abrasion tools were built by Honeybee Robotics in lower Manhattan, less than a mile from the site.

In September 2001, Honeybee Robotics employees in lower Manhattan were building a pair of tools for grinding weathered rinds off rocks on Mars, so that scientific instruments on NASA's Mars Exploration Rovers Spirit and Opportunity could inspect the rocks'
interiors.

That month's attack on the twin towers of the World Trade Center, less than a mile away, shook the lives of the employees and millions of others.

Work on the rock abrasion tools needed to meet a tight schedule to allow thorough testing before launch dates governed by the motions of the planets. The people building the tools could not spend much time helping at shelters or in other ways to cope with the life-changing tragedy of Sept. 11. However, they did find a special way to pay tribute to the thousands of victims who perished in the attack.

An aluminum cuff serving as a cable shield on each of the rock abrasion tools on Mars was made from aluminum recovered from the destroyed World Trade Center towers. The metal bears the image of an American flag and fills a renewed purpose as part of solar system exploration.

We've been havin' fun all summer long: the Beach Toys sign off the concert season

 

by Timothy Rutt

The Beach Toys wrapped up the Sheriff Support Group's summer concert season in Farnsworth Park Saturday night by bringing back that great surfin' music by the Beach Boys, Dick Dale, and others. It was a night that was by turns fun and poignant, and we have it all for you after the jump.

Abundant attendence for the outreach festival

Pictured: Mariposa St. was closed down for Lake to El Molino Avenues for the festival sponsored by the Abundant Harvest Christian Center.

by Timothy Rutt

The Abundant Harvest-sponsored City-Wide Outreach Festival has just closed down, and it looks like a good time was had by all.  There were three levels of activities, from the information and goods booths on Mariposa to health screening to food and kid fun on the lower level.

Lead coordinator Phlunte Riddle said that the festival expanded from Abundant Harvest Christian Center's initial plans, but as more groups wanted to participate, it had to grow bigger.

Abundant Harvest's Pastor Anthony McFarland said that he was personally "very happy that that the community has endorsed this day, coming together ... everybody has been excited about this day."

So what are the odds that they 'll do another one?  Pastor McFarland said that "After we look at the final balance of everything, we'll look to next year.  But if I was going to be presumptious, I'd say yes for another year."

We have more pictures of the day after the jump.

Abundant Harvest City-Wide Festival is going on today

by Timothy Rutt

The Altadena City-Wide Outreach and Festival is going on today from 11 AM-5 PM.  Mariposa and Marcheta Streets will be closed from Lake Avenue to North El Molino Avenue during that time.  Sponsored by the Abudant Harvest Christian Center, It's got something for everybody:  lead coordinator Phlunte Riddle estimates that there will be 2.500 people attending throughout the day, and gave us a list of some of the activities:

Health Pavilion Screening:  Diabetes, Cholesterol and High Blood Pressure screening
Assembly member Anthony Portantino: HIV/Aids Mobile Unit Screening
Children’s Hospital Los Angeles,:Screenings for Toddlers, Children, and Teens
The Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC: Dental Screenings
City of Hope: Blood Donor Mobile Unit
Children and Teen Pavilion:  Game Booths, Interactive Inflatables, and a Reading Clinic
The Network for a Healthy California: Social Marketing Campaigns and Programs designed to increase fruit and vegetable consumption and physical activity levels among low-income families
Food Court: International Selections
Farmer's Organic Market Pavilion: Locally Grown Fruits, Vegetables, Flowers, and Nuts
Art Exhibit: Variety of Media of Fine Artists
40+ Retail Vendors
Live Musical Entertainment; Jazz, Gospel, Contemporary, Classical
Two cars on display courtesy of Toyota of Pasadena

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Altadena Station and the Los Angeles County Fire Department will participate by providing Earthquake and Safety demonstrations, and the California Highway Patrol will also have a presence.

See graphic on left for schedule of music performances.  Seminars will be held at 2387 N. Lake Ave.

The event will begin with an opening ceremony at 10:30 AM with the National Anthem and words from the U.S. Army and other dignitaries, in recognition of the 10th year anniversary of 9/11. 

Media partners include local media KJLH and KTWV Radio Stations, Pasadena Star News, Pasadena Weekly, Pasadena Journal, Mountain View, Pasadena NOW, Pasadena Community Network and New York City-based AOL/Patch.

 

Food Truck Friday gets the crowds, but county regs may close it down

Everyone lines up for the Grilled Cheese Truck and others, but county regulations may put an end to the event

Pictured: the crowds came for Fancy Food Truck Friday last night in the Webster's parking lot.

by Timothy Rutt

Last night's monthly Food Truck Friday at the Webster's parking lot was the place to meet, greet, and eat last night, but it may be the last one for the foreseeable future.

According to a source close to the event, the county's temporary permit has expired, and getting a new one will be onerous: $892 to cover to the end of the year, and then another $892 after Jan. 1.

The sponsors -- Webster's Community Pharmacy, Webster's Fine Stationers, and Webster's Liquor at 2450 North Lake Ave. -- say they aren't making money on the event, but it's been a boon in terms of the companies' image and identity, and provides a place where a diverse community can come together once a month.  By charging almost $1,800 in permits and fees to continue through the end of 2012, the county is putting a significant burden on these businesses, according to the source.

The existing temporary permit was for seven months, and expires in September.  The companies want to continue the event through the end of the year, go dark from January through March, and restart in the spring.

However, the county has said that a new temporary permit will be needed to cover October, November and December, and that will cost $892.  Then --as temporary permits expire at the end of the calendar year -- Webster's will have to refile and pony up another $892 for 2012.

According to the source, the permit itself only costs $192, but the Websters companies will also have to pay for two inspections (at $200 each) and an environmental assessment ($300).  The permit itself is filed under the umbrella of the nonprofit Altadena Chamber of Commerce, or it would cost even more.

The other option, the source said, was to file for a conditional use permit so they wouldn't have to deal with this every year, but the CUP process can cost tens of thousands of dollars (see here for an example of that process).

The source -- who didn't want to be identified because of their involvement in the process -- said that the county has remained unmoved to the Websters' pleas to extend the permit for three months without paying a stiff full-year price.

 

 

 

 

Altadena Station sergeant receives high honors, medal for saving lives

Altadena Sheriff Sgt. Joseph Fender received a Meritorious Conduct Medal, Gold, for saving lives in a housefire when he was working out of Lancaster last year.

The Sheriff Department said:

On December 29, 2010, during a severe winter storm with wind gusts over 60 miles per hour, Sergeant Joseph Fender and Deputies Jonathan Boden and Marco Grajales responded to an emergency call of a structure fire in the city of Lancaster. Upon their arrival, they found no fire; however, the wind had knocked loose several power lines, causing live wires to create sparks and smoke at a residence.

Deputy Grajales observed that a large, high-tension power line, carrying over 12,000 volts of electricity, had separated from its pole and was swinging wildly against the residence, wet pavement of the street, and nearby trees, causing huge explosions upon impact. The power line occasionally collided atop the house, causing the roof to smolder and smoke. Fearing the neighboring residence would catch fire, Deputy Grajales exited his vehicle and ran to the house in an attempt to evacuate any occupants as power lines crashed and exploded around him.

Sergeant Fender saw additional live wires thrashing back and forth between himself and the victims’ location. Despite the obvious danger, he drove over the wires in an attempt to rescue them; however, live wires blocked both sides of his patrol vehicle and he was forced to move to a safer location.

Sergeant Fender and Deputy Grajales then saw the residents of the location frantically trying to load their pets into a truck as power lines struck their residence and the driveway where they were standing. One of the victims was panicking over her cat, which could not be located.

 

Altadena Junction: a sore spot on Palm Street

Our weekly column is up at the Pasadena Sun.  We mulled over two problem neighborhoods to write about.  We chose that one.

PEN offers fall parent programs

from the Pasadena Educational Network

The Pasadena Education Network (PEN) kicks off its fall program schedule with “What You Should Know about Choosing an Elementary School" on Thursday, October 6 at 6:30 p.m. at All Saints Church, Sweetland Hall, 132 No. Euclid Avenue, Pasadena.

Selecting a school is one of the most important decisions a parent will make, yet myth and misperception often cloud conversations about schools. One of PEN's most popular programs, this session provides parents of pre-school aged children with valuable information about what to look for when evaluating a school for their children.  Parents whose children attend Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) schools will be on hand to share their experiences in public school.   

Leading the presentation will be Dr. Mikala Rahn, the president of Public Works Inc., a Pasadena-based non-profit organization that provides independent program evaluations of schools throughout the state.  The program also includes social time and refreshments when parents can talk with one another and PUSD parents.

PEN’s other programs for parents include “What to Look for When Choosing a Middle School” (October 11), “Choosing a Middle School/Parent Networking Night” (November 10), and “Navigating Open Enrollment in the Pasadena Unified School District (November 29).”  Complete program information, school information, and school tour schedules are available at www.penfamilies.org.

All programs are free. Spanish translation is available.

The Pasadena Education Network is an independent, grassroots nonprofit organization that promotes family participation in public education to ensure a quality education for all students in Pasadena, Altadena and Sierra Madre. PEN provides services to help parents explore, evaluate, and engage with our community’s public schools.

Another attempted burglary on East Harriet Thursday

Another knock-and-break burglary attempt Thursday, according to one of our readers on East Harriet between Fair Oaks and Raymond:

Around 9:30 AM someone knocked on our front door while my daughter was at home -- she thought it was a person selling items or advertisement. To find out a few minutes later that this individual went to our back yard and busted one of our basement windows and also an outside small bathroom window. No items were stolen nor much damaged. Sheriff filed a report. Description on the person: male Hispanic mid-30’s around 5”8” more or less , wearing black t-shirt.

Pasadena Education & Resources Expo on Sept. 17

The Pasadena Education & Resources Expo will take place on Sat., Sept. 17, at the Family Life Center at Lake Avenue Church, 393 N. Lake Ave Pasadena from 10  AM- 3 PM. The event, open to the community with free admission and workshops, will give parents, grandparents, teachers as well as K-12 students an opportunity to access the latest in educational resources.

In addition to visiting expo exhibitors, students and their parents will have the opportunity to participate in educational workshops. Workshop pre-registration is available on the expo website. An exciting Kids Zone will feature face painting, arts & crafts by Lakeshore Learning Materials, balloon art and storytelling. Get excited & organized for a successful new school year. 

For more information visit www.pasadenaeducationexpo.com or call 626.600.2052

Serious crimes continue to go down in Altadena

by Carolyn Seitz

Below is the latest release of Crime Statistics for the areas of Los Angeles County serviced by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. 

The first page shows you how Altadena compares to the rest of Los Angeles County for Part I Crimes and Property Crimes.  You'll note that we continue to experience the greatest reduction in Part I crimes of any area in the county thanks to the leadership team at the Altadena Station and the great deputies who serve our community.

These pages of reports also show you how 2011, year to date as of August 31, 2011, compares with the same period for 2006 and for last year.

The second page shows you the overall breakdown for Part I Crimes and Property Crimes for Altadena.  Please note that the reports for the last few months show that Altadena has had five rapes reported.  Lt. Joseph Dempsey indicated previously that all five reported rapes were alleged to have been committed by a person known to the victim. 

The last page provides greater detail about crimes reported, with an overall reduction in crime in Altadena of 34.68%.

It is the cooperation of the community and the watchfulness of neighbors keeping an eye out for the safety of their neighbors that is making a difference in Altadena.  Please continue to partner with the Sheriff's Department and report all suspicious activity, unusual behavior, people not familiar to you sitting in vehicles in your neighborhood, especially while others are going door-to-door.  It is your calls to the Station that are helping have an impact on crime.  Please call 626 798 1131 to report suspicious activity.

 

County says the superscoopers are here

Just in time for fire season, Los Angeles County Mayor Michael D. Antonovich and Fire Chief Daryl Osby announce the arrival of a pair of Super Scooper firefighting aircraft and an Erickson Aircrane Helitanker helicopter on lease from Quebec, Canada. 

 

 

Historical society offers tickets for home tour, raffle tonight and Saturday

by Timothy Rutt

The Altadena Historical Society's next outing will be Sun., Oct. 23, as it hosts a walking tour of the 900 block of Mariposa St.. east of Lake to Maiden Lane.

It includes a docent-led tour of this magnificent, fully-restored craftsman house, pictured in the photo as it appeared in 1913:

The architect is unknown, however, based on some similarities in the design, there is speculation that it may have been designed by one of the numerous architects who apprenticed under Charles and Henry Greene -- perhaps Buchanan and Brockway.  The block was home to some of Altadena’s wealthiest and most influential families, including the fabulously rich Altadena Green and her polo-playing husband Robert Neustadt, socialite Effie Neustadt, Dr. and Mrs. Fred Markham and historian Sara Noble Ives. Architecturally, the houses range from a modest cottage designed by Charles and Henry Greene, to a country estate attributed to Myron Hunt and Elmer Grey, to a long lost Wallace Neff house.  These houses, along with stories, a little gossip, and a scandalous mystery about a copycat Lindbergh-style kidnapping scheme will be featured on the tour.   

Tickets are $15 for members, $20 for non-members and $25 at the door the day of the event. You can also buy tickets on-line:

http://altadenahistoricalsocietytour.eventbrite.com/

Or from AHS at the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Dr., on Monday, Tuesday, or Friday from 9 AM to noon, or call us to find out how to send a check:  626-797-8016

The historical society is also raffling a great Altadena-themed painting:

Old-time rural Altadena isn't hard to find.  Just drive west on Altadena Drive until you get to Lincoln Avenue.  That’s where you’ll find George’s Liquor, replete with loitering dogs and horses tied up outside.  Donated by artist Marv Wegner , the painting will be raffled off  at the Altadena Historical Society East Mariposa Street history tour.  But you can get raffle tickets tomorrow night at Webster’s Food Truck Friday! 

Tickets to the tour and the raffle are also being sold at the Webster's Fancy Food Truck Friday event tonight, and tomorrow night at the Sheriff's Support Group of Altadena's final summer concert at Farnsworth Park.

To find out more about AHS visit us on the web at www.altadenahistoricalsociety.org or call 626-797-8016  or email us: altadenahistoricalsociety@yahoo.com

Weekendin' : Sept. 9-11

Some remembrance events are scheduled this weekend, but there are lots of other activities, too, including the Abundant Harvest outreach on Saturday.  There's something for everybody!

Fri., Sept. 9

• It's Fancy Food Truck Friday at the Webster's parking lot, 2450 N. Lake Avenue, from 5-9 PM.  This month's event features The Grilled Cheese Truck,  Nom Nom Truck, Curb A Peel, and Sweet Arleen's (winner of the Food Network's Cupcake Wars) as well as returnees No Reservations and Greenz on Wheelz.  There will also be a drawing for three back-to-school gift baskets.  The Altadena Historical Society will also be there selling tickets to its Oct. 23 walking tour of Mariposa Street, as well as chances to win an historical painting of Altadena (if you miss it, they'll do it again at the concert Saturday night!).
• Scissors Paper Rock Salon Music Night, 1864 N. Allen, Pasadena, starts at 7 PM, free. In the gallery: mixed media by local artist Kate Carvellas, with the Sam Hill Duo, guitar and flute instrumental arrangements (Celtic/blues/ American folk).
• Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake; front stage, open mic night, starts 8 PM, free; backstage, The Scarlet Furies, with special guests The Merry Wives of Windsor  (folk/alt folk), 8 PM.  Tickets: $18. Reservations:  (626) 798-6236.

Sat., Sept. 10

• Altadena City-Wide Outreach & Festival takes place on Mariposa Street at Lake Avenue and environs from 11 AM-5 PM.  Something for everybody at this festival, including jazz and gospel music artists, food, art, a health pavilion that provides screening and testing for everything from HIV/AIDs to hypertension, a farmer's market, a children's pavilion with fun and games, seminars, a job fair ... whew!   
• Theatre Americana (whose home base is the Davies Building in Farnsworth Park) is offering a free USO show in memory of 9/11, from 3-4:30 PM at the Pasadena Main Library - Donald Wright Auditorium, 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena. It is an inspirational, joyous and loving tribute to all military personal who have selflessly served our country for the last 200 years. It is also a tribute to the heroes and victims of 9-11. It is this undaunting spirit that Theatre  Americana would like to honor.
• An opening reception for "Contemporary & Urban Landscapes," a photographic exhibit featuring Los Angeles based artists Janet E. Dandridge, Annie Fourguette, Nicole Fournier, Michael E. Stern, and Tina Wallin, runs from 5-9 PM at the Altadena Library Community Room, 600 E. Mariposa St. 
• The final Summer Concert from the Sheriff's Support Group and Stage Door Productions is The Beach Toys, a tribute to the classic Southern California band, starting at 7 PM at Farnsworth Park, Lake and Mount Curve Avenues.  Get there early and bring your dancing shoes, because this is the one to watch! 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 provides refreshment for the performers. The concerts this year are dedicated to the memory of Cue MacKenzie.
• Italian movie night at  Bulgarini Gelato, 749 E. Altadena Dr. Movie:  "La Chevre (The Goat)," a French comedy starring Gerard Depardieu. (Okay, it's French movie night!) 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. Dinner reservations must be made by Friday by email at catering@bulgarinigelato.com or by calling (626) 791-6174.
• It's a rubber band night at the Folly Bowl: Stan Wood, playing his own instrument, the  Vibraband (think of a trumpet/saxophone sound coming out of a rubber band), followed by Unpopable with Addi on balloon bass, Matt Margucci on cornet, lap steel guitar, accordion and more, and Danny Frankel on drums and bongos. $10 suggested donation. The Folly Bowl is at 1601 E. Loma Alta Dr.
• Coffee Gallery Backstage: Mary Kaye, western singer/songwriter, 7 PM, $15.  Reservations:  (626) 798-6236. 
  
  
  

Sun., Sept. 11

• Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake; front stage, open mic, free, 8 PM; backstage, 3 PM matinee, Eli Barsi (western/ roots/ bluegrass/ country), $15; 7 PM, Gonzalo Bergara Quartet (Gypsy jazz/Latin), 7 PM.

 

Area marks 9/11 with tributes

There will be several commemorations of the tenth anniversary of 9/11 this weekend, and we will list them as they come in:

Sheriff's Dept. at Hotchkin Memorial Training Center
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department is inviting the public to join fire, law enforcement, and military agencies for a “9/11 Remembrance Ceremony” dedicated to those who perished on September 11, 2001. Speakers will include Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Fire Chief of the Los Angeles Fire Department, Brian L. Cummings, Fire Chief of the Los Angeles County Fire Department, Daryl L. Osby, Los Angeles Police Chief, Charlie Beck, Los Angeles County Assistant Sheriff, Marvin O. Cavanaugh, United States Coast Guard Captain of the Port, Roger LaFerriere, U.S. Congresswoman Janice Hahn and Former Governor Gray Davis.

The ceremony will be at the Frank Hotchkin Memorial Training Center, 1700 Stadium Way, Los Angeles, which has two memorials dedicated to the events of 9/11: The first memorial is dedicated to the World Trade Center and consists of a 23-ton, 22-foot tall steel column that was originally part of the lobby structure. This column is believed to be the largest remnant of the World Trade Center on the West Coast. The second memorial is located in the lobby of the training center and is titled “Towering Memories.” The “Towering Memories” memorial consists of two shapes similar to the silhouette of the Twin Towers that comprised the World Trade Center. Included on the memorial is a list of names of those who lost their lives at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and the Pennsylvania plane crash site.

The ceremony will be from 9-10 AM.

New York Drive Dedication
The tenth year anniversary will also be commemorated at the intersection of New York Drive and Bradley Street in Pasadena in a ceremony that begins at 11 AM Sunday. The ceremony will mark the unveling of temporary road signs noting New York Drive as a memorial to the 9/11 victims.  Led by  Air Force veteran and pilot John McDannel -- who flew one of the actual planes that crashed into the World Trade Center -- the event is supported by local service clubs, airline crews, veterans groups, businesses, schools, and city, state, and national representatives.  McDannel has planted 140 native oak trees along New York Drive as a living memorial to the victims of 9/11. 

The ceremony will include special guests such as Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Pasadena), four USMC F-18's from Miramar flyover and the Pasadena City College – Tournament of Roses marching band. The ceremony will begin at 11 AM at 3100 New York Drive. The Tamkin Foundation donated $25,000 for the memorial signage and stone work. 480 Rose Parade grandstand style seats generously provided by Sharp Seating will accommodate visitors while parking for 1,500 cars is planned. An array of food trucks and refreshments are available on site.

 

 

Morning jolt

• 
  Not so much green: The economic downturn is hitting local golf courses. PSN"s Kevin Smith looks at the issue, including an interview with Doug Colliflower, Altadena town councilman and manager of the Altadena and Eaton Canyon golf courses.
• Can this marriage be saved? This may be a little "inside baseball," but we found it amusing: Dan Evans, editor of the Times Community Newspaper Group (which is our media partner),  writes a story on a tense family outing -- you see, his wife Donna is the local editor of the La Canada Flintridge Patch, and thus his competitor.  It makes for interesting times -- He said.  She said.
• Hoop it up: the bodacious Revvell Revati is offering a class on hooping next Sunday, Sept. 18.  This is not your kid's hula hoop!  Create your own special hoop and learn how to move with it.  Class costs $47, and find out more at: http://www.bodaciousliving.com/hoops/classes-and-events.html.  Revvell will also be at the Altadena City-wide Outreach Festival tomorrow taking signups.
• There's no quitting in baseball: Former Dodger pitcher and current Angel coach Jim Gott (who with wife Cathy and son Danny run Danny's Farm) is offering "The Off Season," a strength and conditioning program for young baseball players.  Evaluations take place in September, and classes start in October in San Marino.  For more information: http://sanmarinoathleticclub.com/description
• Clay time: Xiem Clay Gallery has issued a call to artists for its Open Studio Ceramic Art Fair and Studio Sale  Nov. 11 and 12.   For more information: http://www.xiemclaycenter.com/index.aspx

Big-rig driver gets seven years in Angeles Crest crash

By Daniel Siegal and Jason Wells
Pasadena Sun

Marcos Costa — the big-rig driver convicted of manslaughter and reckless driving charges in the 2009 crash at the foot of Angeles Crest Highway that killed two people — was sentenced Thursday to seven years and four months in prison. Costa will get credit for time served, or roughly half the length of the sentence. 

Los Angeles County Deputy Dist. Atty. Carolina Lugo said outside the courtroom that Costa could end up serving less than three years.

The Brazil native was convicted in July of involuntary manslaughter, gross vehicular manslaughter and reckless driving for the April 2009 crash in which his big rig, having lost its brakes during the steep Crest descent, slammed into a car containing Palmdale resident Angel Posca, 58, and his 12-year-old daughter, Angelina, killing both.

Pictured: Costa, right, at sentencing.  Photo: Pasadena Sun staff.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

JPL boss receives Legion of Honor

Ambassador of France, Francois Delattre, left, inducts Dr. Charles Elachi, director of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and vice president of the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, into the Chevalier de la Legion d'Honneur during a ceremony at Caltech on Tuesday, September 6, 2011. (Cheryl A. Guerrero/Staff Photographer, Pasadena Sun) 

By Joe Piasecki
Pasadena Sun

Lauded for advanced space exploration and for accomplishments that have strengthened international bonds, Jet Propulsion Laboratory Director Dr. Charles Elachi received France’s highest accolade Tuesday — knighthood in its National Legion of Honor.

Under Elachi’s leadership, JPL has collaborated with France’s national space agency on projects ranging from satellites that track rising sea levels to the Mars rover Curiosity, which launches later this year. French scientists developed the rover’s rock-zapping laser.

Elachi was born in Lebanon, a former French protectorate, and studied in France after earning distinction as Lebanon’s top teenage science student. He began working at JPL in 1971 while a doctoral student at Caltech. Thirty years later he became director.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

Missing Altadena man returns home, police say

Staff reports
Pasadena Sun

A 22-year-old developmentally disabled man reported missing on Friday returned home Saturday, Pasadena Police Sgt. Jesse Carrillo said.

Robert Luera of Altadena was reported missing after 11 a.m. when he walked away from Grant Park at 1200 Cordova St. during an excursion with a Social Vocational Services group.

Besides searching for Luera in their cruisers near downtown Pasadena, police officers also used a bloodhound to find Luera, who was described as having a friendly disposition and a lazy left eye.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

Lots coming today

We're putting up a lot of stories today -- we not only had to hit some deadlines on other projects, but our loyal Macbook Pro was overheating in the 100+ weather (as were we!), and went on a little strike.  We hope to be able to catch up some today -- there's lots to say!

Attempted burglary thwarted at Santa Rosa Wed.

Lt. Joe Dempsey of the Altadena Sheriff station said that deputies were called to an apparent attempted daytime burglary on Santa Rosa Avenue Wednesday.

A resident called after hearing a knock at the door -- which the resident didn't answer -- followed by some sound in the back of the house.  Radio cars and the helicopter responded, but nobody was found.

However, Dempsey said, the screen door at the back of the home had been pried off.  He said it fit a common pattern of burglars knocking on doors to see if the house is empty and then attempting to come in through the back.  Dempsey speculated that the suspect may have fled when he heard the sirens.

Dempsey said that the sheriff's department is telling residents in these situations to let the person knocking at the door know that someone is in the house -- you don't have to answer the door, but make some kind of noise to let a potential burglar know that the house is occupied.

 

It's a catch-up day ...

Had a wonderful time last night at Cal State Fullerton, giving a presentation to the opinion writing class at the school of journalism (and thx to the professor, the mighty Steve Scauzillo of the San Gabriel Valley newsgroup, for inviting us).  We had a bright group of students and talked about writing news and opinion online.  Hope they had as good a time as we did!

Which of course ate into our newsgathering yesterday.  We've also got to hit our deadline for our Sunday Valley Sun column, so news'll be coming in later today!  Thank you for your patience!

Open thread: "No school on Palm?" or bad decison?

The school site on Palm Street has always been a contentious item.  Now that the Land Use Committee has turned thumbs down to Arroyo Pacific Academy, what do you think?  Good decision or bad? Let us know in the comments.

Land use committee rejects school on Palm St., goes to town council next

An overflow crowd at the Altadena Community Center heard the town council’s land use committee unanimously reject the application for a school on Palm Street after an emotional meeting Tuesday night.

At one point a sheriff lieutenant was called in to escort out a man who had left his seat and was advancing on the committee, calling them “fascist”:  “None of you live on Palm -- you creeps!” he said as he was led out.

Pictured: the Palm Street school site.

The hearing was for a conditional use permit (CUP) for the Arroyo Pacific Academy, which operates a private school in Arcadia.  Academy president Philip Clarke hopes to open another campus at the site at 183-205 E. Palm St., which has been a hotbed of neighborhood concern since another school opened there without permits in 2008.  Estimates of the crowd attending Tuesday night’s meeting were between 150-185.

Academy: problems can be solved
Clarke told the committee that the Palm Street campus would start with 120 students, and planned for a maximum of 250 students ages 14 through 18.  He cited the example of the Arcadia campus, which he said had no problems in twelve years of operations.  Clarke also brought in consultants who analyzed the Palm Street site for neighbors’ concerns, which he said were “traffic, noise, and property values.”

Clarke and his consultants told the committee that they would be able to mitigate most of the concerns of the neighborhood, with small buses to bring in students  and no bells to mark change of periods nor outdoor physical education activities.  They also said that projected noise levels did not exceed county standards, and that all evidence points to neighborhoods’ property values going up in the presence of a quality private school.

Clarke’s positive picture was countered by members of the Palm Street Area Residents Association (PSARA), many of whom were wearing red and holding copies of the red “No School on Palm” signs that are ubiquitous in the neighborhood.  That organization was formed after the property’s previous owner, Sahag Mesrob Armenian Christian School, opened a 200 student school the day after Labor Day, 2008, without notifying the neighborhood nor securing the proper permits.  The court ordered the school closed at the end of the school year in 2009.

9/11 memorial dedication at New York Drive Sunday

On  Sun., Sept. 11, a group of community patriots will commemorate the ten-year anniversary of the worst terrorist attack on American soil with a memorial ceremony and the dedication of new signs along New York drive.

At 11 AM, many local groups, citizens and civic and community leaders will come together to honor the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives on the attack on the World  Trade Center in New York City.  The unveiling will be held at the intersection of New York  Drive and Bradley Street in Pasadena.
 
Led by the Pasadena 911 committee and local Air Force veteran John McDannel, event supporters include local service clubs, airline crews, veterans groups, businesses, schools and city, state and national representatives. 
 
Since the 9-11 attacks, McDannel has worked tirelessly for the last decade towards a Pasadena memorial.  “I couldn’t do anything to retaliate, so I planted trees,” said McDannel.  Since then, he has solicited and received tree donations, and has personally planted 140 native oak trees along New York Drive. This beautiful effort now serves as a living memorial to the victims of 9-11.  The temporary road signs noting New York Drive as a memorial to 9-11-01 victims will be placed along the boulevard’s green zones.
 
The ceremony will include special guests such as Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Pasadena), four USMC F-18's from Miramar flyover and the Pasadena City College – Tournament of Roses marching band. The ceremony will begin at 11 AM at 3100 New York Drive. The Tamkin Foundation donated $25,000 for the memorial signage and stone work. 480 Rose Parade grandstand style seats generously provided by Sharp Seating will accommodate visitors while parking for 1,500 cars is planned. An array of food trucks and refreshments are available on site.
 
“We are looking forward to an important kick-off to the permanent memorial to 9-11 in Pasadena,” said McDannel.  “As an American, I think it’s important for all of us to never forget the bravery, human sacrifice and events of that fateful day. Fire fighters, police, EMTs, military in uniform, schools, Rotary members, civic clubs, veterans, and citizens are welcome to attend. Patriotism is alive and well in Pasadena.”

Individuals, businesses, and foundations are welcome to make a contribution to a restricted memorial fund, a 501(c)3 established by the Pasadena Parks and Recreation Foundation. Please visit www.Pasadena911Memorial.org for more information.

The Beach Toys play their pet sounds at Farnsworth Park Saturday

The Sheriff's Support Group of Altadena and Stage Door Music Productions wrap up the summer at Farnsworth Park with The Beach Toys on Sat., Sept. 10, starting at 7 PM.

The Beach Toys are a group of five talented musicians who love the music of The Beach Boys. They have studied extensively the history and sound of America's #1 musical export and are now traveling around the world playing the music of The Beach Boys to sold out crowds. Having recently toured South America, the South Pacific, Canada and Japan, The Beach Toys are excited to be back home in Los Angeles.

They present a polished, high energy, professional show that not only excites their audiences with a truly authentic recreation of The Beach Boys' early sound but also includes stories and history of this groundbreaking and innovative group. They wear replicas of the outfits The Beach Boys wore throughout different decades of their career and strive to replicate as closely as possible the true Beach Boys sound. All of this is done to pay loving tribute to The Beach Boys in the hope of preserving and spreading the legacy of the band that means so much to them and millions of others around the world.

The Beach Boys are forever! But The Beach Toys are NOW and they're coming to Altadena!

Breaking: Land use committee turns down school on Palm

The Altadena Land Use committee voted to deny a conditional use permit to Arroyo Pacific Academy tonight.  The committee vote was unanimous.

Philip Clarke, director of the school, owns the property  at 183-205 E. Palm St. and is seeking to turn it into a campus for 250 students.  The property was formerly the Bienvenidos Children's Center and the Sahag-Mesrob Armenian Christian School, which was shut down by the county in 2009 for not having proper permits.

The committee's recommendation will now go to the Altadena Town Council for consideration at its Sept. 20 meeting.  We'll have the full story of the meeting up tomorrow.

 

 

Mercury could hit 107-degrees on Wednesday

By Jason Wells
Pasadena Sun

Temperatures are expected to soar up to 107 degrees in the valleys this week before falling back into the high-80s for the weekend, according to the National Weather Service.

Daytime highs are expected to peak on Wednesday, with 105 degrees in Pasadena and 107 in the Greater Glendale area. Temperatures will likely drop significantly for the weekend, falling back into the high-80s as a low-pressure system "dives into the region," according to the weather service.

In the meantime, officials warned that the high temperatures combined with offshore winds will create dangerous fire conditions.

Public health officials also called on residents to keep a watchful eye on pets and elderly neighbors. The nearest cooling center is the Altadena Senior Center, 560 E. Mariposa.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

Found dog at Chaney Trail

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Reader Suzanne found this guy in the Chaney Trail neighborhood -- no collar, but obviously well cared-for.  If you can get him home, call 818 653 3865.

Fancy Food Truck Friday coming to Webster's this Friday

It's Fancy Food Truck Friday at the Webster's parking lot again, 2450 N. Lake Avenue, with an assortment of gourmet food trucks and a chance to meet your neighbors, and even win a few prizes.

This month's event features The Grilled Cheese Truck. Also new to the lot:  Nom Nom Truck, Curb A Peel, and Sweet Arleen's (winner of the Food Network's Cupcake Wars.) All-time favorites No Reservations and Greenz on Wheelz will also be serving up their best on this night.

There will also be a Back-to-School-themed gift basket drawing! Come on over and enter to win one of three must-have Back To School Baskets, compliments of the Webster's stores: Community Pharmacy, Liquors & Fine Stationers. Winners will be selected during the event. Give us a ring for more details!

“We want to invite our Altadena neighbors to come and hang out with their friends and family. To make that easier, we will have family-style tables set up to enjoy the fabulous food and relax!” commented Event Producer, Meredith Miller. Webster’s parking lot is located on the corner of Lake Ave and Marcheta in Altadena. Entrance is complimentary, street parking and adjacent lot parking will also available.

Fancy Food Truck Friday runs from 5-9 PM on Fri., Sept. 9, and is hosted by Webster’s Community Pharmacy, Fine Stationers and Liquor Stores.. For more information:  626-797-1163

 

Faure Requiem as Pasadena Master Chorale remembers 9/11

The Pasadena Master Chorale will hold "A Concert to Remember" the tenth anniversary of 9/11 on Sun., Sept. 11, at 4 PM at the La Crescenta Presbyterian Church, 2902 Montrose Ave., La Crescenta.

Soprano Krystle Casey, baritone Cedric Berry and organist Edward Murray will be featured in the remembrance concert.

Jeffrey Bernstein will conduct the chorale in the following program:

JEFFREY BERNSTEIN (arr.)   America the Beautiful

TRADITIONAL                 By the Waters of Babylon

VIRGIL THOMSON          My Shepherd Will Supply My Need

ROSS LEE FINNEY        Words To Be Spoken

GABRIEL FAURÉ            Requiem (op. 48)

Tickets are $22, and are available here.

Update on Virginia Lance

Mary Spriestersbach sends us this followup about her mom, who was burned out of her house last week:

Virginia Lance (2919 N. Lake Ave., Altadena) who lost her home on Aug. 28 is doing well and living with her daughter, Mary Spriestersbach, up the street in Altadena.  The family has been very fortunate that the Insurance company is handling a place for her to live as well as staging the house.  Although we certainly want to thank people for offerings of furniture and clothes, at this time we will not need them.  The support from all of you was wonderful.   The place we have found is close to my brother and I here in Altadena.  That was primary.  The home is gutted but Mom got out, thanks to her caregiver, and that was the most important item in the house !!!!  Neither of them suffered any injuries ~ another miracle !  We owe a big thank you to C.Jake for sending out the S.O.S. so quickly and helping in every way including taking Mom's dogs.

Also: BIG thank you to Paramedics who were there Friday night for her broken arm, and Sunday night after fire. Altadena Fire Station #11 is the best and we thank you for your quick response.

Watching the skies Sunday night

by Timothy Rutt

Last night's moist air, with added rain and thunder, was a visual feast for some of our favorite Alta-photographers. Bill Westphal's pictures appeared yesterday, but we've got more:

Steve Gerow's picture of sunset.

Ibarionex Perello captured the arc of the double rainbow over Altadena (you can see the upper rainbow just a little in the left-hand corner).

 

Library launches ebook checkout

The Altadena Library District this month has launched its new digital ebook  service, where you can check out a variety of bestselling fiction, nonfiction, and public domain books for your iPad, phone, or other device (no Kindle yet, but it's coming).  To check out a book, have your library card in hand and go right here.