altadenablog

Valentine's Day events for your sweetie at the Ale House, Webster's Pharmacy

by Timothy Rutt

Even thought we categorize Valentine's Day as a Day of Enforced, Joy^tm, we're not that much of a Scrooge to say it shouldn't be enjoyed.  Here are a few things going on in town:

The Altadena Ale & Wine House,  2329 N. Fair Oaks Ave.,  will have a special Valentine's Day dinner on Tuesday, with a catered menu from Susann Edmonds of Jabberwocky, Inc., paired with great wines.  Cost is $65 per person, and make your reservations after 5 PM at 794-4577.

Also, Webster's Community Pharmacy is still holding its "treasure heart hunt":  special “conversation hearts” featuring instant savings will be hidden among the aisles of the gift department. Customers who purchase a minimum of $10 will qualify to “hunt” for one of these hearts – instant savings will be good towards that day’s purchase from the gift department.  This is all in addition to a selection of  Valentine cards and gifts.  Webster's Community Pharmacy is at 2450 N. Lake Ave.

 

Altadena Junction: going to the dogs

Our weekly column for the Sunday Valley Sun says that the dog days have come early -- a lot of dog news last week!

Lost dog: Harry, on Marengo [He's home]

Deborah is missing her friend:

Our blonde Norfolk Terrier, Harry, disappeared from our yard on Marengo Avenue between Altadena and Palm on February 6th.  He is chipped and should still have his tags on with our phone number and address.   If you find him, please call us at 626-398-8889 or take him to the Pasadena Humane Society where he is registered.  Thank you for you help in bringing him home.

UPDATE 2/12: Harry was found and returned by a neighbor, so all is well!

 

Bo's a lucky dog

by Timothy Rutt

Catherine and Tom Peters and Bo the Rottweiler are all smiles at today's yard sale on 1836 North Roosevelt Ave. The Peters held the yard sale at the home of friends to raise money for Bo's lymphoma chemotherapy.  The Peters run Trained Dogs for Adoption, a rescue organization that rehabs dogs with behavior problems.  The yard sale was busy (it goes on until noon today) and Bo happily greeted his new friends and admirers.  Our previous story on Bo is here.

 

 

Crescenta Valley student reportedly falls to his death

 

Crescenta Valley High Students wait to be picked up from school on Friday after a student reportedly fell off of a campus building to her death. (Raul Roa/Pasadena Sun)

by Jason Wells, Megan O'Neil and Veronica Rocha
Pasadena Sun

Grievance counselors reportedly converged on Crescenta Valley High after a student fell to his death near the administration building, according to school sources and witness reports.

The fall was reportedly witnessed by dozens of students, but district officials have so far declined to comment on the incident.

Officials have ordered an evacuation to get students off the campus and home early, said Glendale Unified spokesman Steven Fasher, who declined to elaborate.

Sinead Gray, who went to the school to pick up her brother at the campus, said he witnessed the immediate aftermath of the fall and described the body on the ground.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

Scissors Paper Rock Valentine's specials today

Scissors Paper Rock Salon (Altadenablog sponsor) is having a Valentine's weekend today:

New handmade jewelry and more at the boutique

Free mini-makeovers for your big night out

Free paraffin treatments with mani/pedi.

Gift certificates are available for all beauty services, and 10% off for each $100 purchase.

Call now to schedule your appointment: (626) 791-5354

Scissors Paper Rock Salon is at 1864 N. Allen Ave.

Altadena Trails meeting moves to Monday

Robert Staehle, meetings chair at the Altadena Crest Trail Restoration Working Group, says they will meet on Monday this month, Feb. 13, at the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Dr.:

The meeting is one day early this month so that the romantics among us can enjoy Valentine's Day on Tues. 14 Feb.

All are welcome! Please come to express your support, concerns and ideas for "Getting our ACT (Altadena Crest Trail) together."

An agenda will hopefully be forthcoming before the meeting; however, the following topics have been raised for discussion:

-- Cobb Estate: Update on the USFS fence and gate project.

-- Update on the Hahamongna Watershed Park (HWP) County DPW EIR process.

-- Status of the Altadena Crest Trail restoration.

Please bring your trail observations to the meeting!

Crime blotter: car burglaries, a tailgate, and a bird

Several vehicle burglaries, a Silverado tailgate (altho' that may be over now) and a stolen parakeet mark the sheriff's blotter this week from Lt. Duane Allen of the Altadena Sheriff's Station.

Tuesday, Jan. 24

Between 11:30 PM and 11:00 AM, Thursday – A residential burglary occurred in the 2400 block of Glen Canyon Rd.  Suspect(s) entered the residence via the rear window.  Loss:  black Dynex 22” tv, (4) silver tarnished antique candleholders, silver tarnished antique pitcher.
Unknown Time Frame – A commercial burglary and vandalism occurred at New York Launderland, 1840 New York Dr.  Suspect(s) entered the business by cutting the metal bars securing the rear restroom window.  Loss:  none; suspect(s) attempted to open the coin machine with a blow-torch.  

Wednesday, Feb. 1

Between 9:00 AM and 10:40 AM – A vehicle burglary occurred in the  1400 block of Morada Place.  Suspect(s) entered the vehicle by shattering the driver’s side window.  Loss:  black backpack containing identification and credit cards.  
Between 6:00 PM and 12:00 PM, Thursday – A petty theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred in the 1900 block of Jefferson Drive.  Loss:  black Stanley briefcase, measuring tape, moisture reader, two calculators.

Thursday, Feb. 2

Between 12:30 AM and 10:30 AM – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 2100 block of Oakwood Drive.  Suspect(s) entered the vehicle by shattering the passenger window.  Loss:  black Swiss Gear backpack, nursing pediatric book, Swiss Gear rolling luggage.
Between 6:00 AM and 1:00 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 100 block of E. Sacramento Street.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by removing the bathroom window screen.  Loss:  black Samsung 32” tv, black Sony PlayStation 3 with black remote control, (10) misc. PlayStation games, black Insignia 32” blu-ray tv, Sony 52” 3D-WiFi tv, black Nintendo Wii.
Between 10:00 PM and 5:00 AM – A petty theft of vehicle parts occurred in the 2000 block of Santa Rosa Ave.  Loss:  2004 Chevrolet Silverado tailgate.

Friday, February 3rd

7:00 AM – A grand theft occurred in the 1600 block of Oxford Avenue.  Loss:  a green Parakeet with a red spot next to its beak, white metal birdcage.  The parakeet was taken from the front porch of the residence.  Suspect vehicle is a small pickup truck which was last seen southbound on Oxford Avenue.  

 

Edison contractors working on trees in Altadena

by Timothy Rutt

Contractors working for Southern California Edison are trimming trees in the Altadena area, say an Edison spokeperson, who gives some tips for identifying if they are legit or not.

Vanessa McGrady of Edison says that several subcontractors are currently working in the area trimming trees as part of the post-windstorm cleanup.  McGrady said that Edison contractors will have an ID from their own company as well as a letter from Edison explaining what they are doing.  There is also a number on the letter for the customer to call to confirm the work with Edison.

McGrady said that the contractors are traveling in clearly-marked trucks with "approved by Edison" contractor signs attached to them. 

Asplundh is a major contractor, but there are other firms involved in the tree trimming, McGrady says.

Ale House will celebrate Valentine's Day and beyond

The Altadena Ale & Wine House, 2329 N. Fair Oaks Drive, is celebrating Valentine's Day and the rest of February with a series of special events.

On Tues., Feb. 14, there will be a four course meal and wine pairing for $65 per person for the holiday, starting at 7 PM.

The next evening, Wed., Feb. 15, the Altadena Jazz Quartet will play, starting at 8 PM

On Saturday, Feb. 18, rhumba-flamenco music will be performed, starting at 8:30 PM.  There will also be a French wine tasting on Sun., Feb. 19, starting at 4 PM, $18 admission. 

Tuesday, Feb. 22, is Mardi Gras, so come celebrate Shrove Tuesday with cajun food and drink specials (masks and costumes encouraged).

On Sunday, Feb. 26, there will be another wine tasting (tour of the Rhone valley), starting at 4 PM, $25 admission, followed by an Oscar viewing party.

 

 

 

Two arrested in Altadena in Thursday's sweep

by TImothy Rutt

Two Altadena residents were arrested in a multi-agency sweep of probationers and parolees Thursday.

According to Sgt. Debra Herman of the Crescenta Valley Sheriff's Station, those arrested in Altadena were Ronnie Joseph, 34, on a probation violation; and Tezitzala Saavedra, 32, for child endangerment.

Herman said that Saavedra was arrested after finding evidence that narcotics were being used in her location and for having an unsupervised child.

There were eight felony arrests in the sweep,  Herman said.  Charges included parole and probation violations, child endangerment, firearms violations, and one for having a marijuana grow operation with about 100 plants.

Officers screen 44 locations and found 22 parolees and probationers in compliance Herman said.

The sheriffs department and other agencies have conducted periodic sweeps of probationers and parolees to make sure they're living up to conditions of their release.  Herman said that "we're gong to be a little more persistent that these people are in compliance."

Area law enforcement conducts property crimes sweep Thursday

By Daniel Siegal
Pasadena Sun

Regional law enforcement agencies performed a sweep of several cities Thursday in response to a recent spike in property crimes, arresting eight people and seizing three weapons. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department joined forces with Glendale police as well as state parole and probation authorities.

During the sweep, which began at 7 a.m., deputies and officers checked 44 locations in La Cañada Flintridge, La Crescenta, Montrose, Sunland, Tujunga, Lake View Terrace, Pasadena and Altadena. Eight people were arrested for charges including child endangerment, growing marijuana and parole and probation violations.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

Tangerine nightmare: fruitnappers strike again, caught on video (again)

[Video Removed by Request]

by Timothy Rutt

The tangerine bandits have struck again.

Apparently unaware or not caring that their previous exploits have put on the internet for all to see, the fruitnappers have struck Bruce Wasson's tangerine trees again.

Wasson's home security system captured a vehicle on Tues., Feb. 7, that matches the color and model of the vehicle that stopped at his tangerine grove on on Holliston Avenue on Jan. 29.  In that raid, two women caught on video took about 60 tangerines. 

In the latest, the camera captures the vehicle stopping for a little over a minute before driving off.  Wasson says he lost about 18 tangerines in the latest raid.

If you have any leads, call the Altadena sheriff's station, 798-1131.

Altadena post office starts new boxholder services

by Timothy Rutt

Afraid of having UPS or FedEx leave your packages on your stoop to be picked up by the random thief? If you're an Altadena post office box holder, you have another option.

The Altadena Post Office has started a new service where they will accept packages from any carrier for post office box holders and keep them for your pickup.

According to officer in charge David Tran, post office box customers need to set up an online account at poboxesonline.com.  Then, they can fill out a customer agreement form at the Altadena post office that can kick in the following services:

Street addressing: use the street address of the post office location to receive your packages.  For example, gifts to Altadenablog (highly encouraged!) at PO box 6596 can be sent to:

2271 N. Lake Ave., No. 6596
Altadena CA 91003

Tran said this gives a street address to a small business.  Packages from any carrier can be accepted.  To pick them up, show your ID at the counter.

Signature on file: provide the post office with a signature that they'll keep on file and  will be able to accept some signature-required mail and packages.

Real Mail Notification Services: receive an email or text message each day you receive mail in your PO Box. 

To start the services, begin by registering or getting a box online at poboxesonline.com.

Schiff vows to fight deep space mission cuts

by Jason Wells
Pasadena Sun

Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Burbank) today announced his opposition to any budget cuts at NASA that would threaten the agency's planetary science programs, including missions to Jupiter's icy moon and Mars.

In a statement, Schiff said he met with NASA Administrator Charles Bolden today to express his concerns over reports of massive funding cuts in the space agency's 2013 budget proposal, which is scheduled to be released on Monday.

There have been reports that the Obama Administration may cut $300-million from NASA's budget, primarily impacting deep space missions.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

Tiny Tot T-Ball registration starts Monday

Registration for Farnsworth Park's Tiny Tots T-Ball League (for ages 3-5) will start Mon., Feb. 13, and run though March 17.  Late registration is March 17-28.

Cost is $50 ($60 after March 17), which includes uniform, trophy, and banquet.  The season starts April 2.

Volunteers are needed to help coach teams.  If you'd like to volunteer, please talk to the park's staff.

Registration is at Farnsworth Park 568 E. Mt. Curve.  Phone 626-798-6335.

 

Bo knows love

Bo the Rottweiler will have a benefit yard sale Saturday. Photo: Trained Dogs for Adoption.

New rescue organization holds fundraiser for dog's chemotherapy

by Timothy Rutt

Bo's had it pretty rough already.

A five year old Rottweiler who has lived in a kennel ever since he was a year old, Bo can be a handful.

But he attracted the attention of Catherine and Tom Peters, who have started a new rescue organization, Trained Dogs for Adoption (TDFA).

TDFA is a kind of rescue of last resort, specializing in hard-case German shepherds.

"TDFA started because my husband and I discovered there was a place in the community for difficult-to-place dogs," Catherine Peters said.  "The tougher-to-manage dogs always seemed to speak to us."

As longtime dog lovers who've worked in rescue before, Catherine Peters said they started TDFA "because we have a lot of experience dealing with difficult behavior and difficult-to-manage dogs, and just wanted to do it our way."

Because they deal with difficult dogs, TDFA makes a long-term commitment  to train and socialize them, and find the special kind of owners who will give them good homes, Catherine Peters said.

"Those kind of dogs kind of touch our hearts, and we have a soft spot for them, so we make a longer term commitment to them … They need someone to give them the gift of time."

The Peters recently moved to Altadena, in part because it's "an animal-loving community,"  she said.

So what's the story with Bo?

Land Use Committee turns down Arroyo Pacific's school plan

 by Timothy Rutt

The Altadena Land Use Committee turned down Arroyo Pacific Academy's second bid to put a school on Palm Street, but there was less division than last time.

The committee voted 8-5 Tuesday night to deny Arroyo Pacific's petition to put a high school on the property at 183 E. Palm St.  It now goes to the Altadena Town Council, which will make a recommendation to the county for a final decision.

Land Use Committee chair Mark Goldschmidt said "it was a very good meeting.  People were civil," without the kind of emotional outbursts that sometimes occurred at other meetings about the school.  

Arroyo Pacific President Philip Clarke told the committee about the ways he would limit traffic, which is a major concern of the neighborhood.

However, Nancy Rothwell and Coleen Sterrit of the Palm Street Area Residents Association (PSARA) reiterated the neighborhood group's concern that the property, due to geography and location, was unsuitable for a high school.

 

Found, but not yet captured: pet parrot

Jane Brackman tells us this morning:

We have someone's large green pet parrot in a tree in our yard.  This is a large bird with red on the head and a large yellow beak. He is alone and seems lost.

I don't have a photo.  I am trying to get the bird to come into my yard to eat.

If he sounds familiar, give her a call at 626-794-0700.

Champagne, chocolate, and poetry at Webster's Fine Stationers Friday

Altadenablog sponsor Webster's Fine Stationers is having a special pre-Valentine's Day event on Friday, Feb. 10:  a special champagne and chocolate tasting from with OddBallGrape.com's Anne Bannon and Michael Holland.  Sample two different champagnes, learn how to choose a good champagne and learn the lore about champagne. 

There will also be a special guest appearance by Altadena artist and poet Aldonia Bailey at 5:30 PM.  Aldonia will read love poetry in-between sips of bubbly.  There will be special giveaways plus a gift basket of WFS goodies to win.  Come for the champagne, stay for the chocolate and poetry and you might go home wiht more than you came with.

The champagne and chocolate event will run from 4:30-7 PM.  Webster's Fine Stationers is at 2450 N. Lake Ave.

 

Morning jolt

• Roger, Dodgers: Some of the LA Dodgers visited the kids from FIve Acres this week, holding a short baseball clinic and a Dodger Dog dinner.  PSN's James Figueroa has the details.
•  Wipf makes the grade: Jana Wipf of Altadena has been named to the Whitworth University (Spokane, WA) Laureate Society for Fall semester 2011. She qualified for the academic honors society by maintaining a grade point average of at least 3.75 during the semester.

 

Altadena Connection 2012 available now

by Timothy Rutt

The 2012 edition of the indispensable Altadena Connection is now available.

The county's guide to services, events, and organizations in Altadena is being delivered in the mail right now, but is also available at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St., the Bob Lucas Branch Library (when it re-opens), the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Dr., the Altadena Senior Center, the Business Technology Center, the Altadena sheriff's station at 780 E. Altadena Dr., and the county parks.  

We're also hosting a copy on our website, and you can download a copy here.

The county is also asking you to complete a  brief survey/comment forms that are helpful  for feedback.  The direct link to the PDF survey is http://file.lacounty.gov/lac/cms1_141160.pdf  and surveys can be emailed back to uas@ceo.lacounty.gov or mailed to the address on the survey.  You can also email them directly at uas@ceo.lacounty.gov. 

 

Gene Stevenson to be among the marshals for the Black History Parade

by Timothy Rutt

Altadenan Gene Stevenson will be among the community grand marshals for Pasadena’s 30th Annual Black History Parade and Festival, to be held Sat.,  Feb. 18.

Stevenson, former director of the Jackie Robinson Community Center, is one of the founders of the parade.  Other community marshals will be co-founders Carolyn Jones and Hamp Morris.  Joining them will be Brandilyn Amie, the Pasadena Community Access Corporation parade announcer, and on-site parade announcer Roland Bynum.          

Former KTLA anchor Walter Richards and current anchors Michaela Pereira and Gayle Anderson, along with actor Willard Pugh ("The Color Purple," "Air Force One") will be teh celebrity grand marshals.

With the theme “Looking Back and Remembering: We’ve Come A Mighty Long Way,” the parade will celebrate the achievements and contributions of African Americans to American society. 

The parade begins at 10 AM at Charles White Park in Altadena, at Ventura Street and Fair Oaks Ave., and travels south on Fair Oaks to Robinson Park, 1081 N. Fair Oaks Ave., where a festival follows until 4 PM.  The festival features a youth area, entertainment, vendor booths, food and more.

Pictured: the start of the 2011 Black History Parade on Fair Oaks Avenue, Feb. 19, 2011.

PCC President Rocha wants more local students to enroll

by Joe Piasecki
Pasadena Sun

Pasadena City College President Mark Rocha will take part in a community meet-and-greet on Thursday in hope of encouraging more local students to enroll at the college.

The event includes a question-and-answer session and takes place from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Villa Parke Community Center, 363 E. Villa St., Pasadena.

Because roughly two-thirds of PCC students live outside the school’s immediate surroundings, Rocha is trying to spread the word that local students get priority registration for classes.

“There is a lot of bad news out there about education budget cuts, so we want to reach out to our community and let them know that they should not be scared away,” said Rocha. “We cannot give everyone what they want exactly when they want it, but we still can give anyone something of what they need to get started toward their goal.”

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

 

Burglars tampering with electrical panels?

A member of the President Streets neighborhood news group noted that the electrical panel on his house had been opened.  He said it does not open by itself, and as it belongs to the homeowner (and not Edison) -- and due to the uptick in burglaries and attempted burglaries in the area -- he was a little suspicious.

Are the burglars now trying to shut off a home's power in order to deactivate burglar alarms?  We know that a loss of power does trigger some alarms, but we're not familiar enough with them to know that it's universal  Still, we know our electrical panel has fittings for a lock or seal, and it might not be a bad idea to get one ...

 

MonteCedro sponsors healthy lifestyle workshops

Cindy Carlburg of Altadena, center, receives the raffle prize of "Fit 2 Love" and "Knack Absolute Abs" at the a workshop with fitness coach and author JJ Flizanes in January.  The MonteCedro retirement community sponsored two healthy lifestyle workshops with Flizanes last month.

On February 27 and 28, 2011, MonteCedro will host “Conductorcise,” which combines music appreciation and fitness, with Maestro David Dworkin. Dworkin has conducted orchestras around the world, was the principal clarinetist with the American Symphony Orchestra, and performed with the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra. To RSVP or receive additional information about MonteCedro, please call 877-282-1584 or visit www.montecedro.org.

Oprah's network looking for Altadena families for new show

by Timothy Rutt

OWN -- the Oprah Winfrey Network -- is looking for families for a new show, and are casting their net in Altadena. They tell us:

 

We are looking to speak with families in different LA communities, including Altadena, that might be struggling with their teenagers.  From the producers of CBS' "Undercover Boss", we are casting for a new documentary series for OWN. This is a positive-change show aimed at helping a family by bringing together neighbors and strengthening community.  Each episode will feature a different family confronting challenges with their teen, then we will rally the community to help the family.  The help will come from friends, family, neighbors and free services.  At the end of the day, this show intends to create a greater sense of community for the whole neighborhood.

 

We’re seeking families who are at the end of their rope with their kids’ behavior:

• Does your teen break all your rules?
• Is your child a victim of peer pressure or bullying?
• Is your child acting out, talking back, failing school?
• Smoking, drinking, experimenting with drugs?
• Ditching, sneaking out, hanging out with the wrong crowd?
• Have you tried everything, but nothing is working?

Requirements:

• Families must have at least two children who live at home
• At least one child should be a teenager

To Apply:

Please email us NOW:

• Your name, email AND phone number
• Names and ages of everyone living in household
• City where you live, a little about the neighborhood and type of home (house, condo, apartment)
• Brief description of the family’s problems
• 2 current family photos

Put your LAST NAME and CITY in the subject line – email to:
lauren.bissett@studiolambert.com OR Phone: 424 258 2250

 

Community garden sets master gardening classes for spring

by Timothy Rutt

Certified gardening classes for beginning and intermediate gardeners will be held again this spring at the Altadena Community Garden.

Master gardeners Jeri Huston and Randy Bayard will co-teach the UC VIctory Garden classes, held through the University of California Cooperative Extension Master Gardener program.

Classes for beginners will be held March 24 and 31, and April 14 and 21.  Intermediate classes will be held April April 28 and May 5, 12, and 19  All classes will be held at the Altadena Community Garden from 9:30 AM-12:30 PM.

Classes are $15 per class or $50 for the series.  Resident Altadena Community Gardeners are free.

To register, contact Jeri Huston at 626-584-0442 or email: jerihuston@yahoo.com.

 

 

Deputies arrest Pasadena man with three stolen Silverado tailgates

by Timothy Rutt

The case may be shut on the tailgate bandit.

Altadena sheriff Lt. Duane Allen said that an investigation into the theft of numerous Chevy Silverado tailgates over the past few weeks led to the Pasadena home of Wesley Eugene Taylor, 34.

Allen said that three of the stolen tailgates were in Taylor's possession at the time of his arrest by deputies Tuesday night.

With nine Silverado tailgates stolen in December and January -- eight in Altadena, one in Pasadena -- Allen said that  "we pretty much put all our manpower into it -- it was getting pretty bad, so we worked on it pretty hard."

Allen said that five detectives worked on the case to bring it to a swift conclusion, thanks to clues Allen said they were not ready to reveal at this time.

Possible rental scam victim ordered to vacate house

by Timothy Rutt 

One of the two women who may be victims of a rental scam has been told to vacate her house by the end of the month, but there are still issues with water on their property.

Marjorie McNary said that she had been ordered by the court to vacate the house she's living in by Feb. 29.  McNary, who moved into the house on the 2800 block of Casitas Avenue in November, had her water shut off in early January, but it was restored several days later after political pressure was applied to the water company.

McNary, and Mary O'Connor, who lives in a guest house in the back of the property, may be victims of a fraud, according to the Altadena sheriff's station.  Both women signed a lease to the property, but deputies believe they may be victims of an increasingly-common rental scam where someone takes over a foreclosed vacant house and rents it out, without the knowledge of the home's actual owner.

In the women's case, The Peace Officers Professional Association Credit Union was the owner of record and ordered the water shut off Jan. 12.  According to Bob Hayward, general manager of the Lincoln Avenue Water Company, it was not known that the property was occupied at the time.  Water was restored Jan. 17, but Lincoln Avenue Water wanted a $500 deposit.  The women managed to scrape up $250 with the help of a donor, and Lincoln Avenue agreed to keep the water on as long as the rest of the deposit was paid by Feb. 21.

Both women are disabled and living on Social Security.

Neighbors report man with orange vest claims to be Edison employee [UPDATE]

by Timothy Rutt

We've gotten several reports about this guy Tuesday, and they all go something like this (thanks to reader Steve):

This afternoon a 35-40 year old white male, curly black hair, medium height and build, knocked at our door .... Wore an orange vest.

When my wife looked out the window he said "Edison, here to look at your power line." Asked if we had a dog.

My wife asked for ID and he said he didn't have it, it was his first day on the job, but that we should look at his truck. My wife declined. He took off.

We called the Sheriff's Dept., and they are checking for similar incidents. Also called Edison, who confirmed that ALL employees have photo ID on them at ALL TIMES.

Here's another one:

About 20 minutes ago a man knocked on my door. He was wearing an orange vest.
I talked to him thru the window and he said he was with Southern Edison. So I opened the door.
He then asked if I had a dog in the yard. I said no.
He said he needed to check my high powered lines. I asked for ID. He said it was in his truck.
I asked him to get it. Then he said i have a very official truck do you want to see it?
I said no I want to see your ID.
He said: "Oh actually I don't have it. It's my first day.
So I told him to get off my property. He stormed off saying that he would check the lines on my neighbors property.

The Altadena sheriff station number is 798-1131.

UPDATE 1 PM: Sheriff crime analyst Virginia Cordova has sent out an email with further information.  Among the most telling: SCE workers don't wear orange vests, and are required to wear photo identification.

Two men have been identified as part of this operation, per one resident's description:

    Suspect #1: male, Caucasian, early to mid-20's, black curly hair, average height, thin build.

    Suspect #2: male, Hispanic, mid-30's to early 30's, slightly heavyset, beard and mustache.

Both suspects were seen in a small white pickup truck with some unidentifiable logo.  Subjects were seen in the area of New York Drive and Maiden Lane and several other areas around 12 PM into the early afternoon.

 

Webster's Community Pharmacy has Valentine heart hunt for savings Feb. 11-14

Webster's Community Pharmacy (Altadenablog sponsor) has a Valentine's Day special cooked up for the weekend.

Starting Feb. 11,  special “conversation hearts” featuring instant savings will be hidden among the aisles of the gift department. Customers who purchase a minimum of $10 will qualify to “hunt” for one of these hearts – instant savings will be good towards that day’s purchase from the gift department.

In addition to Valentine's gifts and cards, the refreshment table will be decked out in hearts teasing the appetite of our customers during “Treasure Heart Hunt” days. Fresh strawberries will be floating in pink lemonade because Cupid would have it no other way. Sweethearts will delight on cookies and other nibbles.

Webster's Community Pharmacy is at 2450 N. Lake Ave.

 

County offers grants to replant storm-tossed trees

Los Angeles County Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich announced a $2,500,000 County grant program last week to replant trees in areas devastated by the Nov. 30/Dec. 1 windstorm.

Cities, public agencies, and nonprofit organizations that partner with public agencies are eligible to compete for grants of up to $100,000.  Grant guidelines allow for trees to be planted in parks and public open spaces as well as in parkways along residential and commercial streets.

The application deadline is May 31 for applicants to develop comprehensive replanting programs.  Grants should be awarded this summer allowing for tree planting as early as this fall or winter.  Priority will be given to the grant proposals demonstrating the greatest need.

Applications can be downloaded from the Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District website at http://openspacedistrict.lacounty.info or for more information, call (213) 738-2981. 

Sheriff reverses course, will attend ACONA meetings

by Timothy Rutt

Reversing its earlier decision, deputies from the Altadena Sheriff's Station will resume attending ACONA meetings and working with the organization.

"We're going to attend ACONA meetings, it's not a big deal," said Altadena Sheriff Lt. Roosevelt Johnson. "It's a forum for the community, and as a law enforcement organization we have an obligation to be there and listen to the concerns of the community."

The sheriff's station boycotted the last meeting of the Altadena Coalition of Neighborhood Associations because Kendall Brown continued to attend as a volunteer. Brown, 19, who in on probation with a juvenile record for theft, was volunteering at ACONA meetings as part of his community service obligation. Capt. Steven McLean said that as long as someone with a criminal record was attending and taking names and addresses of Neighborhood Watch block captains, Altadena deputies would not attend meetings.

When asked about Brown's presence, Johnson said "I have no idea what's up with Kendall Brown, that's not even part of the discussion with Elliot."

Elliot Gold, one of the organizers of ACONA, said that "I believe they realized that the community of Altadena is more important than minor politics ... the sheriffs realized that they have an obligation to reduce and eliminate crime, but also to work with people who have problems and help them to become right."

Gold said that the sheriff's have a policy to work with youth and adults, from those who are about to get in trouble to those who are working through their probation. It's ACONA's policy to have open meetings where all can attend, Gold said, including "someone who made a mistake as a youth and is on the mend."

ACONA's next meeting will be at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St., on Tues., March 27.

 

 

Morning jolt

 

• Dog days: Let's stipulate that Arune Kavaliauskaite's music isn't really to our taste.  (Is this even considered singing?)  However, the LA Times has picked up the story of the singer's alleged attempt to run over a park employee at Eaton Canyon, and includes  a link to a video where the car and dog in question have cameos.  The video seems to highlight above all else that she has a rockin' body and wears skimpy clothing, so be warned.
• Burrito Tuesday: If you're looking for a virtuous and tasty meal today, the Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake, is celebrating Burrito Tuesday:  order a burrito a la carte ($7.50) all day, starting at 11 AM, or join them for a four course dinner from 7:30-9:30 PM for $15.  Dinner includes chipotle pumpkin soup, classic chard salad, an organic burrito, and crème brulee made with butternut squash. All dinners are vegan, local, and organic where possible.

 

Nissan Frontier stolen from driveway Monday morning

One of our readers says that : "Our silver Nissan Frontier pickup truck was stolen from our driveway on Woodbury Road Monday morning, probably after 5 AM.  The license plate is JYHAWKR.  There are three stickers on the rear bumper, two from Australia and one from Kansas.  In hopes it has been dumped, if you see this truck please call the sheriff's station at 626-798-1131."

Found: a pair of Labs at Glen Canyon & Pepper

This pair, who apparently know each other, were found by reader Donna and her family, and they're lucky they were.  She writes:

The dogs were found in the vicinity of Glen Canyon and Pepper Drive on Saturday night, February 4.  The male is a black lab and the female is a chocolate lab (I think).  They had no collars or tags.   The female does not have a chip....not sure about the male yet.  We had no leashes/ collars, etc. My husband took the female in today to check for a chip, will probably take the male tomorrow.

They do not appear to have been out on the street for any length of time and appear to be in good shape.  You can contact me at:
donna.pett@caltech.edu

 UPDATE 2/11:  The dogs have been adopted!

Quote of the day: smooth criminal

This from Brian Charles, who writes for the Pasadena Star News and San Gabriel Valley Tribune.  The story is about how the Pasadena police department has switched to an encrypted digital radio system. thus rendering police scanners inoperative and supposedly deterring criminals (as well as the press, who rely on scanners for breaking news).  To date, the police are unwilling to loan out scanners to the media:

Besides the Pasadena Star-News, several outlets regularly cover Pasadena. Among them the Los Angeles Times, The Pasadena Sun, The Pasadena Weekly, The Pasadena Journal, Mountain Views News, Patch, KPCC-FM, Sierra Madre Tattler, The Altadena Blog and several foreign language publications.

None of the outlets employ known criminals or bank robbers.

The key here is "KNOWN" criminals.  (*whew!* -- our disguise is holding up).

And it's "Altadenablog," one word, no "The".

And editorially: Brian's right.  Without a scanner, we rely entirely on the police to tell us when something's going down.  The sheriffs are still on an analog system, but will move to a digital system by the end of the year. 

More of our thoughts are at Andre Coleman's recent Pasadena Weekly piece here.

 

 

 

 

Super Monday!

... and what would be better than to watch the commercial starring Altadena's own Luigi (who is one of the two French bulldogs performing this role):

... although this was our favorite, for the Chevy Silverado (wonder if their TAILGATES survived?)

Important film rule to remember: Apocalypse is always gray ("Terminator: Salvation," "The Road," "Book of Eli" ... all  gray films!)

 

Morning jolt

• Next ACONA meeting: Save the date: Tues., March 27, from 7-8:30 PM at the Altadena Library.  Agenda to come.
• Charles White: Reader Doris Finch found an ad for the Swann Galleries in the most recent New Yorker, illustrated by a Charles White charcoal.  Swann holds regular auctions of African American fine art, and Altadena's White has his art frequently represented.
• Umm ... coffee!  The Institute of Domestic Technology will hold another class by Ian Riley of LAMILL to teach you how to roast your own coffee beans.  It's this Saturday, Feb. 11, at the Zane Grey Estate. Runs from 10 AM to noon, cost is $95, with snacks by master chef Steve Rudicel worth the price of admission alone.  Home-roasted coffee is the new cocktail!  Register here.
• Local scholars do good: Samuel Nemati of Altadena was recognized for outstanding academic accomplishments by being named to the LeTourneau University Dean's List for the Fall 2011 semester.  Samuel achieved a grade point average between 3.50 and 3.99 for the semester. And Brianna Dekine was among over 1800 students from Wake Forest University (Winston-Salem NC) who made the Fall Dean's List.

 

Deputy slightly injured in Eaton Canyon rescue Sunday

by Timothy Rutt

A reserve deputy was injured during a rescue of a hiker in Eaton Canyon Sunday.

A Whittier woman, age 38, was hiking with her family when she slipped off a rock and broke her ankle about 100 yards below the first flats, according to Lt. Marjorie Jacobs of Crescenta Valley sheriff's station.   The victim was airlifted out by the Air 5 rescue helicopter and taken to a nearby hospital.

A rescue reserve deputy was on the ground, guiding the rescue basket, when he tripped on a rock and fell on his left knee, Jacobs said.  He was treated, and "his pride hurts more than he does now," Jacobs said.

The rescue lasted from about 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM Sunday.

Park it and buy something!

by Timothy Rutt

The Coffee Gallery turned its backstage area into a rummage sale Saturday in one of several fundraisers pay for county permits.  The "Got Parking" rummage sale -- earmarked for the Gallery's parking variance ($8,000 or so) was pretty calm that morning.  The Backstage becomes a concert venue again for the next fundraiser, a concert on Feb. 8. More after the jump.

Altadena alt-rocker arrested for driving into Eaton Canyon employee

by Timothy Rutt

Altadena deputies arrested a 28 year old Altadena-based rock singer for assault with a deadly weapon after she reportedly struck a park employee with her car Friday afternoon in Eaton Canyon.

According to a release from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, Arune Kavaliauskaite became hostile toward an Eaton Canyon employee after she was warned repeatedly to put her dog on a leash.  The sheriff's report says that the employee, a recreation services leader who was checking the area for homeless encampments, called for backup as she feared for her safety.

The report says that Kavaliauskaite and her dog got into a vehicle as the employee was standing nearby taking pictures for future identification.  The report says that Kavaliauskaite allegedly "accelerated forward with the vehicle into the victim striking her in the legs and knocking her back into a parked vehicle. ...Kavaliauskaite stopped the vehicle putting her left front tire next to the victim’s feet. She turned the wheel causing the tires to turn into the victim and then accelerated and fled the scene. One of the vehicle's tires ran over the victim’s shoe top barely missing her toes."

The victim was treated for her injuries at a local hospital and released.

Deputies arrested Kavaliauskaite at her home in Altadena and she was booked at Crescenta Valley Sheriff's Station where was held in lieu of a $30,000 bail, according to the sheriff's report

An Altadenablog reader wrote us that Kavaliauskaite owns a website for  Arune and the Alternatives. an LA-based rock group that plays locally and will shortly be going to the UK, according to tour information.  The group also has a Facebook page.

 

Altadena Junction: a grab bag o' stuff

Our column  is up in the Sunday Valley Sun,  and it's an assortment of odds and ends in the past week.  

"Treasure Buddies" for Family Fun Flick Friday Feb. 17

The Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St., will show "Treasure Buddies" as its family friendly Friday Fun Flick on Feb. 17 at 3:30 PM.

Join the Buddies on a round-the-world treasure-hunting experience.  Rated G, there will be popcorn and drink provided, and it's all free.

 

 

February spring ...

Deb Halberstadt fount several Tuscany sunflowers  growing in a front yard on the south side of Marathon Road, following the track of the sun on Friday. Several bees were taking their fill. (Photo courtesy Deb Halberstadt, HalfCity Productions.)

Save the date!: it's "Primavera IV," the SGV blogger's picnic March 24

by Timothy Rutt

Save the date, everybody: it's the fourth annual "Primavera in Altadena" San Gabriel Valley Blogger's Spring Potluck on Sat., March 24.

Bloggers, blog-fans, spouses, significant others, children, and pets are all welcome to the annual get-together in scenic Farnsworth Park.

Bring a potluck dish to share, or practical items like dishes, utensils, water, etc.

As always, the event will be held on the covered picnic tables on Mt. Curve, next to the Davies Building. 

It's brought to you by four mighty Altadena blogs:  Altadena Above it All, Altadena Hiker, Open Mouth Insert Fork, and Altadenablog (of course!).

More information on the graphic -- see you there!

 

Sheriffs and family seeking missing Altadena man

by Timothy Rutt

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's department, in a release Friday, said they are asking for the public's help in locating a missing 27-year-old Altadena man.

Arsen Bayramyan lves on North Glenrose Avenue.  The sheriff's department described him as mentally challenged and requiring medication. 

He was last seen leaving his residence on Friday, Feb. 3, at 8:30 AM. 

His family is very concerned and is also asking for the public’s assistance.

If you have any information, contact the Altadena Sheriff's Station at 798-1131 or contact the Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau, Missing Person’s Detail., at  (323) 890-5500.

 

Another Altadena man reported missing Friday

by Timothy Rutt

A second Altadena man was reported missing Friday.

According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, Johnny Burton, 72, was last seen at his residence on the 2800 block of El Nido Drive at 11 AM on Thursday, Feb. 2.  A sheriff's notification says Burton suffers from occasional forgetfulness and is easily confused.

Burton is described as a male African American, 5 ft. 10 in., 155 lbs..  He was last seen wearing a a long sleeve yellow shirt, blue jeans, a black jacket, and black boots.

If you have any information, contact the Altadena Sheriff's Station at 798-1131 or contact the Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau, Missing Person’s Detail, at  (323) 890-5500.

 

Crime blotter: three Silverado tailgates taken in separate incidents

Item of choice this week: Chevy Silverado tailgate. Crime blotter provided by Lt. Duane D. Allen of the Altadena Sheriff's Station.

Wednesday, Jan. 25
Between 10:30 AM and 11:15 AM – A residential burglary occurred in the 100 block of E. Woodbury Road. Suspect(s) entered the residence by removing the bedroom window screen. Loss: black Nintendo Wii, gold/turquoise wrist watch, costume jewelry.
Between 1:00 PM and 8:00 AM, Thursday – A grand theft of vehicle parts occurred in the 900 black of W. La Canada Verdugo Road. Loss: 2000 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 tailgate.

Thursday, Jan. 26
1:15 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 800 block of New York Drive. The victim stated he heard the doorbell and a few minutes later heard some noises coming from the kitchen area. The victim walked into the kitchen and observed a female, African-American, 14 to 16 yrs, attempting to open the kitchen window. The female saw the victim and fled the location leaving behind a black glove. Deputies responded to area, contacted witnesses and arrested a male juvenile. The female juvenile and another male juvenile African-American are still outstanding. No loss.

Friday, Jan. 27t
Between 6:00 PM and 3:00 AM, Saturday – A petty theft of vehicle auto parts occurred in the 2100 block of N. Santa Anita Av. Loss: brown 2006 Chevrolet Silverado tailgate.
Between 6:00 PM and 6:00 AM – A petty theft of vehicle auto parts occurred in the 300 block of W. Palm St. Loss: champagne Chevrolet Silverado tailgate.

Pictured: 2006 Chevrolet Silverado.  Picture (c) GM Media.