altadenablog

Altadena Christian Children's Center hosts Dr. Nancy Pine at All Saints

Altadena Christian Children’s Center and the Children Youth  & Families Department of All Saints Church invite you to a wine and cheese reception for Dr. Nancy Pine, author of Educating Young Giants. This new book speaks to a critical arena of growth and change in education today, by comparing American and Chinese elementary and high school classrooms and revealing how these two countries need to extract themselves from outmoded practice and learn from each other's strengths. 

When: June 7, 2012  7-9 pm.

Where: All Saints Church, 132 N. Euclid, Pasadena, CA 91101 

More information from Sarah Tatum at centuriontatum@earthlink.net or 626 827 7797

 

Man shot, deputies investigating in Mariposa/Fair Oaks neighborhood [UPDATED]

by Timothy Rutt

One man was hit in a shooting this afternoon, and so far he isn't talking, according to the sheriffs.

Lt. Elisabeth Sachs of the Crescenta Valley sheriff station said that the victim is in stable condition at a local hospital and is "not forthcoming with information," she said.  The call came into the sheriffs at about 2:45 PM.

Mariposa Street between Fair Oaks Avenue and Highview was blocked off and evidence tags, such as used to identify placement of shell casings, were placed inside the perimeter, according to neighbors who've contacted Altadenablog.

Sachs said that the suspects are described as two black males, who left the scene in a vehicle of unknown description heading in an unknown direction.

UPDATE 5/22: Lt. Michael White of Altadena Sheriff Station said that they are putting the location of the shooting at Mariposa and McNally.  Sheriffs still aren't revealing much information while the investigation is ongoing, but White said that it was believed to be gang-related.

 

Visioning meeting #2 notes up; final meeting June 6

by Timothy Rutt

Mina Brown of RBF Consulting tells us that the notes from the second Altadena Visioning Workshop on April 25 are now up at the county website.

The third workshop -- which will review a draft visioning document -- is scheduled for Wed., June 6, from 7-9 PM at the Loma Alta Park gymnasium, 3330 N. Lincoln Ave.

You can also see the notes after the jump.

CERT classes offered in La Canada in June

The Los Angeles County Fire Dept. is holding a CERT (Community Emergency Response) training in June at La Canada Flintridge on three consecutive Saturdays, June 16, 23, and 30.

Classes will be held at the La Canada Flintridge Unified School District building, 440 Cornishon Ave., from 9 AM-4 PM.

Space is limited, so you must register ahead of time.  To register, go to www.FIre.LACounty.gov and click on the CERT link.  CERT training is free.

 

Graduation and promotion ceremonies in June

The Pasadena Unified School District has announced times and locations for high school graduation and middle school promotion ceremonies for the Class of 2012.

High School Graduation

Blair:  June 5, 6 PM, Pasadena High School Gladiss Edwards Auditorium, 2925 E. Sierra Madre Blvd., Pasadena

Center for Independent Studies: June 5, 4 PM, Pasadena High School

Marshall Fundamental: June 7, 7 PM,  Pasadena City College, Sexson Auditorium, 1570 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena

Muir: June 8, 6 PM,  Monrovia High School Field, 845 W. Colorado Blvd., Monrovia

Rose City: June 8, 1 PM, McKinley Auditorium, 325 S. Oak Knoll Ave., Pasadena

Pasadena High School: June 13, 6 PM, Pasadena Civic Auditorium, 300 E. Green St., Pasadena

 

Middle School Promotion

Marshall Fundamental Middle School: June 6,  2 PM, Pasadena High School

Washington: June 4, 6 PM, John Muir High School, Rufus Mead Auditorium, 1905 Lincoln Ave., Pasadena

Eliot Middle School: June 6, 8:30 AM, Eliot Middle School Auditorium, 2184 N. Lake Ave., Altadena

McKinley: June 6, 4 PM, McKinley School Auditorium, 325 S. Oak Knoll Ave., Pasadena

Wilson: June 6, 10 AM, Wilson Middle School Auditorium, 300 S. Madre St., Pasadena

Blair Middle School: Jun 7 9 AM Blair School Gym, 3201 S Marengo, Pasadena

Sierra Madre Middle School: June 7 5:30 PM Pasadena High School

 

 

Verdugo Young Musicians present spring concert June 1

The Verdugo Young Musicians Association will present a spring concert on Fri., June 1, at Longfellow Elementary School Auditorium, 1065 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadnea.

"JB and Beyond: From Bach to James Brown" features the VYMA Longfellow String Orchestras, Choir, Kinder and Musicianship Class in a concert that includes music from Bach to James Brown, and from TV and the movies. 

There will also be a world premiere by composer-in-residence Ted Masur.

The event starts at 6 PM, and is free and open to the public.

Dog found, Altadena and Tanoble [UPDATE: He's home]

Reader Jed has found a dog:

I picked up this dog today, Sunday, around 11:15 AM wandering near Altadena and Tanoble. Very sweet, Has a license in Monrovia, but the number to call is just the police, who say that the phone they have for the license number (Monrovia # 2759 exp 6/30/12) is incorrect. The dog is well cared for and very friendly. We are on Northaven in Altadena, and our phone is 626-797-4764.

UPDATE 5/21: He's home now.

Saturday in Altadena

by Timothy Rutt

Audrey Graff, 6, Maggie Graff, 8 and Gracie Turner, 9, salute in triumph at their lemonade stand Saturday afternoon.  The lemonade stand was a project for Maggie's GATE (Gifted and Talented Education) program, to earn money for the Altadena Churches Together Serving (ACTS) food pantry.  Mom Deborah Graff tells us that they earned $159.30 for the pantry by selling about 75 cups of lemonade (and no, they weren't $2 per cup!).

If you were looking for something more indoor-oriented, the Friends of the Altadena Library's annual used book sale was going on in the community room and the parking lot of the library at 600 E. Mariposa St.  It concludes from 1 PM-4 PM today, and there's lots of good stuff left.

 

 

Publisher's notebook: saying goodbye to a friend

by Timothy Rutt

In five years of doing this website, one of our favorite pictures is this one:  Tim Borquez, crowing in triumph at his haul at the Club 21 Easter Egg hunt on the grounds of the Col. Green Carriage House in 2011. Tim was always a ham, anyway, but he also personified the indominitable spirit of kids with Down Syndrome.  We just love the joy and pride and "bring it ON" attitude at play in this picture.

So it was sorrow beyond words when we heard that Tim, 12, had gone to sleep in his Altadena home Thursday night and never woke up again.  It was unexpected, but I can't think of a better place to go than in the big bed, sleeping nestled between Mom and Dad who love you.

We families who have a member with Down Syndrome are a tight little group -- we're always sharing stories about our kids, their schools, therapies, how they encounter the world, and how we cope with it all.  We share our triumphs and our tragedies together.Our heart and prayers go out to Monica and Fred, and his sisters Laura and Rebecca. Club 21 has a nice tribute here.

It's going to be hard going to East Altadena Little League Challengers practice today, where Tim was always a presence.  And it will be hard going to Lineage Dance's Club 21 dance class for kids with Down Syndrome Monday, because it was generally our kids and Tim.

If you want to get to know him a little, look around: he's had a bit of a TV acting career (we saw him on "House" once, as a student who was trying to comfort his teacher after she collapsed).  He's also been on "Nip/Tuck."  And, coincidentally, our Rosie was watching her favorite show, "Yo Gabba Gabba," this morning, and darn it, there was Tim.

We miss him already -- the world's a little less brighter now.

 (Slightly revised from this morning).

On today's agenda: Pasadena marathon, followed by eclipse

by TImothy Rutt

Some out-of-town events worth noting today:

Pasadena Marathon: This will be bollixing up traffic from about midnight Saturday until 5 PM this afternoon with rolling closures of several major streets.  Particular intersections to look out for are Altadena Drive, Allen Avenue, and Hill Avenue at Mountain Street; and Lake Avenue and Los Robles Avenue at Washington Boulevard. There's a map of the route available here and the Pasadena Sun has a good rundown of what to expect.

Churches and synagogues affected by the race have a page of their own here to figure out what to do.  (And we hope some Baha'is rap them on the knuckles for spelling it "Bai Hai," like it's a tropical drink.  Sheesh!)  

Museums of the Arroyo Day: If you're looking for something fun to do with the kids -- or without --  today is also "Museums of the Arroyo Day."  There is free admission to the Gamble House, Heritage Square, LA Pollice Museum, Lummis Home and Pasadena Museum of History.  They probably shouldn't have scheduled this on marathon day -- just a thought.

Partial eclipse: Things should start getting interesting about 5:24 PM, as a partial eclipse of the sun takes place (86%/79% eclipse, depending on how you measure it).  It should reach maximum coverage at 6:38 PM, and will exit the sun's path at 7:42 PM.  The Pasadena Sun has (partial) details (Sun .. partial ... that's a joke), and you can start at this NASA website for more.

Image courtesy NASA.

 

Altadena Junction: honoring the fallen

by Timothy Rutt

Our weekly column at the Pasadena Sun is up: Pasadena's got a marathon today, but we have our own run this afternoon worth going to -- all that and more.

Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy faces deadline for Rosemont preservation

by Timothy Rutt

Besides trying to save lower Millard Canyon, the Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy is on a campaign to preserve eight acres of open space in La Crescenta.   

The Rosemont Preserve is located at the northern end of Rosemont Avenue in La Crescenta, in the mouth of Goss Canyon.  

According to a flyer from AFC, the landowner has agreed to sell the land "on favorable terms, so long as it is preserved forever as natural open space."  AFC has received a $350,000 grant through County Supv. Michael D. Antonovich, and is looking to the public to support the last $100,000 needed to complete the project.

According to an email from AFC, they are currently about $14,000 short, and need to make that by May 31 to complete the purchase.

Acquiring the land would "effectively double green space in La Crescenta," according to AFC.

Besides providing open space, the land is a habitat for a range of wildlife, including mountain lions, bears, coyotes, mule deer, bobcats, and "potentially endangered Arroyo toads."

A brochure on the project is available here.

More on the Rosemont project, including a donation page, is here.

Image: map of the Rosemont Preserve, from the AFC website.

Morning jolt

• Click it or ticket:  The Los Angeles County Sheriff and other enforcement agencies are starting up their Click It or TIcket seat belt enforcement drive to encourage you to wear that belt.  This year's mobilization runs May 21 through June 3, altho' it's enforced throughout the year.  Caught without a seat belt?  Expect fines and costs of at least $142.  Be safe and keep your money.
• Scholar: Samuel Nemati of Altadena was recognized for outstanding academic accomplishments by being named to the LeTourneau University Dean's List for the Spring 2012 semester.  LeTourneau University is an interdenominational Christ-centered university located in Longview, Texas. 
• Benefit: "Laugh at the Pain," a benefit for Multiple Sclerosis research and Union Station Homeless Services, will take place today at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N. Lake Ave.  There will be a 3 PM matinee and 7 PM evening show.  Tickets are $15, and reservations are required.  Email:  laffatthepain@gmail.com (include quantity of tickets needed) or call 626 798-6236 after 10 AM today.

 

 

Altadena Heritage & the Altadena Farmer's Market join Altadenablog sponsor team

by Timothy Rutt

We are very pleased and proud to announce the newest members of Altadenablog's sponsor team:  Altadena Heritage, sponsors of the Altadena Farmers Market.  

And don't forget to check out the market itself, which will premiere Wed., May 30, from 3-7 PM at Loma Alta Park near the Altadena Community Garden!

Current list of farmers is:

Shu and Debby Takikawa (Garden of.....) farm
Kenter Canyon Farms
Suncoast Farms
Elsers Country Farm
Farquhar Farms
John Muir High School Farm
Drake Family Farm
Jubilee Farms

Current List of vendors Include:

Big Mista' BBQ
Plow & Gun Coffee
Pine Street Products
Molany Tubilderborst ~ Bread Lounge
Sqirl Preserves
Deisy's Tasty Food
Beyond the Olive
Mother Moo Organic Ice Cream

We are particularly excited about the Fox Pizza Bus: a mobile pizzaria with wood-fired oven, operating from an almost 14-ft. high Scottish double-decker bus.  More to come ...

 

Lost cat, Olive Ave. between Altadena Drive and Palm Street

We're missing a kitty:

LOST CAT! All white Neutered Male just turned three years old about 10 lbs. Normally outdoors by day and indoors at night. On 5/16/12 got him inside in PM but he found an open window. Tried to get him back in and ran from me. Too nice of a spring night I guess. Very nice and loving but cautious around strangers like most cats! He is our Snugglerator and we miss him greatly! Any info will help. If you live in the area of Olive Ave between Altadena Dr. and Palm PLEASE just open or check garages/sheds or random openings that he may have wondered into and got trapped. PLEASE help me find this love bug! Thank you!

eacc.mm@gmail.com

626-240-9312 Maureen

818-421-1041 Bryan

626-405-1777 Work

 

Public safety: always call the sheriff (your alarm company may not!)

by Caroyn Seitz
smseitz@mindspring.com 

I saw a comment on one of the local blogs from a resident complaining that his residence was burglarized and that the deputies never responded until 15 minutes after he called the Sheriff's Station to report that his house had been broken into.  The burglars were still in the residence when he arrived home, about 30 minutes after the alarm company notified him that his alarm had been breached.

Please do not assume that the alarm companies called the sheriff's station.

Unfortunately, they do not always call the sheriff.

A couple of years ago, you may remember that a resident received a call from his alarm company that his kitchen door had been breached, setting off the alarm.

He drove home immediately and parked across the street from his house.  

He saw a Black Cadillac Escalade in his driveway and then saw a male walk out of his kitchen door with his big screen TV. The TV went into the Escalade and the burglar walked back into the house and walked out with more of the resident's "stuff."

The resident didn't call the Sheriff.  Instead, he followed the Escalade for a short distance and then lost sight of it in traffic.

His alarm company also hadn't notified the sheriff's deputies.

When you get a call from your alarm company, no matter where in the world you might be, call the sheriff to report the alarm having been tripped.

Let them go sort it out instead of being mad at them for not responding.

You'll stand a better chance of getting a timely response from the deputies if you also call.  Don't assume your alarm company did.

These failure happen more often than you might imagine.

------

Carolyn Seitz is Altadena's Citizen of the Year for 2010 and a public safety volunteer.

Crime blotter: residential burglaries all over this week

It's all (mostly!) about residential burglaries this week, with a robbery mixed in.  Crime blotter by Lt. Duane D. Allen of Altadena Sheriff Station.

Sunday, May 6
Between 9:00 AM and 9:00 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 200 block of W. Palm Street.  Suspect(s) entered the location by shattering the rear windows.  Loss:  unknown.
Between 6:00 PM and 10:00 PM (Thursday) – A residential burglary occurred in the 3200 block of Lincoln Avenue.  Suspect(s) entered the residence through the rear kitchen door (no signs of forced entry).  Loss:  blue/gray Bosch band saw, blue/gray Bosch 10-in. mitre saw.

Monday, May 7
11:40 AM – A residential burglary occurred in the 1000 block of Morada Placel.  The victim heard the doorbell ring and observed a female on the property by the use of a surveillance camera.  A few minutes later, the victim heard a loud noise emitting from the bathroom and encountered the suspect (male) attempting to climb through the window.  Suspect #1 described as a male, African-American, 30 yrs, 5ft. 8 ins. to 6 ft., 160 lbs., black w/white emblem baseball cap, white w/black stripe polo shirt, dark jeans;  suspect #2 described as a female, African-American, 25-30 yrs, yellow or white t-shirt, dark pants.  Suspect #1 last seen entering a silver BMW with Georgia state license plate(s) heading northbound on Lewis Av. and out of view.  Loss:  none.

Tuesday, May 8
Between 7:15 AM and 7:30 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 100 block of W. Terrace Street.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by opening the kitchen window.  Loss:  unknown.  (Per a neighbor – two male, Hispanics, early 20’s, were observed loitering to the front of the residence, no further info. available).
Between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 1100 block of New York Drive.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by prying the window.  Loss:  misc. currency.  
Between 6:45 PM and 7:15 AM (Wednesday) - A vehicle was reported stolen from the 3000 block of Maiden Lane. Vehicle was recovered by LASD Temple Station.
Between 7:00 PM and 5:45 AM (Wednesday) – A grand theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred in the 2000 block of Maiden Lane.  Loss:  leather Rawlings briefcase, silver iPod shuffle.  

Wednesday, May 9
Between 5:00 PM and 5:00 PM (Thursday) – A residential burglary occurred in the 1200 block of E. Mendocino Drive.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by shattering the rear glass French doors.  Loss:  unknown.

Thursday, May 10
2:15 PM – A robbery occurred at Focus Point Academy, 119 W. Palm St.  Subjects were apprehended by deputies and taken into custody.

Friday, May 11
Between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM (Saturday) – A petty theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred in the 1700 block of Craig Avenue.  Loss:  gray Garmin GPS.

Saturday, May 12
Between 9:05 PM and 10:15 PM – A vehicle vandalism occurred at 24Hr. Fitness, 2180 N. Lincoln Ave.  

 

Mack Robinson mail processing center to close

The Mack Robinson postal distribution center at 600 Lincoln Avenue in Pasadena is slated to close. (Raul Roa/Staff photographer, Pasadena Sun)

by Adolfo Flores
Pasadena Sun

The U.S. Postal Service  has decided to close Pasadena’s Mack Robinson Processing and Distribution Center, prompting criticism from Reps. Adam Schiff (D-Burbank) and Judy Chu (D-Monterey Park).

The center is one of nearly 250 facilities to be shuttered as the postal service seeks to contain costs and reduce a ballooning operating deficit. It is not clear when the center would close, though postal officials plan to complete its consolidation efforts by 2014.

While mail sorting and distribution work would be transferred, a postal center for customers would remain open at the site.

“Closing the center would have a detrimental economic impact as it provides hundreds of good-paying local jobs and ensures the swift and timely delivery of mail throughout the San Gabriel Valley, which is necessary for local businesses to operate smoothly,” Schiff said in a statement.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

 

Stop blooming!

 

Reader Ketty shares this picture -- somebody decided to knit a flower body for the stop sign at Santa Anita and Calavaras.

And if you, too,  have too much time on your hands, we have a busy weekend ahead:

• Friends of the Library annual book sale: pre-sale to members of the Friends is from 3-7 PM today, book sale opens 10-4 Saturday and 1-4 PM Sunday.
• Join the Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy for a look at historic Lower Millard Canyon.  AFC will host four hikes on Saturday (at 9 AM, 10:30 AM, noon, or 1:30 PM) with docent experts in biology, geology, history or hydrology.  Learn how the Altadena Crest Trail will be extended through the "La Vina gap".  
• Altadena Community Church hosts The Crown City Symphony featuring cellist Laszlo Mezo in a free concert Saturday, at 2 PM. Mr. Mezo will perform "Pezzo Capriccioso" and "Variations on a Rococo Theme" by Tchaikovsky with the Crown City Symphony. The orchestra will perform "Pavane" by Faure, with guest conductor, Cynthia Nunes, and "Sigurd Jorsalfar" by Grieg.
• Altadenablog sponsor Webster's Fine Stationers hosts Anne Bannon and Michael Holland of the wine blog OddBallGrape.com for a wine tasting and discussion from 4-7 PM. Saturday.  Local writers  Aldonia Bailey and Heather Hilliard-Bonds will also be reading from their work.

 We will be taking our turn to take our son up to Sacramento today for his drug trial, so we'll be out of pocket for awhile, and back again Saturday!

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade -- for a good cause!

 

by Timothy Rutt

Young entrepreneur Maggie Graff, 8, needs your help to help others.

As an act of community service as part of her GATE (Gifted and Talented Education) program, Maggie will open a lemonade stand this Saturday, May 19, on Mendocino Street between Maiden Lane and Ganesha Avenue between 3:30 and 5:30 PM.

"All the money I earn will be donated to the ACTS Food Pantry," Maggie tells us in an email.

ACTS (Altadena Churches Together Serving) operates the food pantry at the Altadena Community Church,  943 E. Altadena Dr.

Stop by to support Maggie and do a good turn for the community!

Crown City Symphony at Altadena Community Church May 19

The Crown City Symphony is presenting a free concert Saturday featuring cellist Laszlo Mezo.

Mr. Mezo is a Hungarian cellist currently residing in Los Angeles.   As the winner of the 2008 international  Ima Hogg competition, he was invited to record a CD with the Hungarian label in 2009.  The recording features works by David Popper and includes several world premieres.   He will be performing this season in Hungary, Japan, Romania and the United States.  Mr. Mezo will perform "Pezzo Capriccioso" and "Variations on a Rococo Theme" by Tchaikovsky with the Crown City Symphony.

The orchestra will perform "Pavane" by Faure, with guest conductor, Cynthia Nunes, and "Sigurd Jorsalfar" by Grieg.

Marvin Neumann is the conductor.

The concerts will be held on Sat., May 19,  at 2 PM  at the Altadena Community Church 943 E. Altadena Drive, Altadena.

More Information:

Crown City Symphony

Crown City Symphony on Facebook

Lazsla Mezo

Sixth annual Altadena ARTBreak runs May 25-June 1

from the Altadena Arts Council

The Altadena Arts Council  and the Altadena Community Arts Center are presenting  the “Sixth Annual Altadena ARTBreak”, opening on Friday, May 25, with an opening night reception, and continuing through the following Friday, June 1.  The  weeklong  event will  feature an exhibition of the visual arts talent of Altadena and Pasadena area children and youth. 

For the second year, ARTBreak will be held at The Temporary Gallery @ Webster’s, 2460 North Lake Ave.(intersection of North Lake and Mariposa).  The Gallery is being held in space donated for the event by the Webster family.  

Executive Director Mary Ann Stevenson invites members of the community to “Come out and celebrate the talent and creativity of our young people,  support the important role that the arts can play in their educational development and support our organizations’ efforts.”  It’s also an opportunity to see how an empty store front space has been transformed into an attractive art gallery, thanks to the generosity of the Websters. 

Opening night takes place 6-8 PM.  Gallery hours are Saturday, May 26, 3-6:00 PM; Sun, May 27,  22-5 PM; and Mon., May 28 thru Friday, June 1, 3-6 PM.  For information on the Altadena ARTBreak or how you can become involved with The Altadena Arts Council  and Altadena Community Arts Center,  call 626-797-5798.

It's one of those days ...

We are ending up having a day of unexpected self- and home-maintenance -- but we promise there'll be stuff coming up!

Town council rundown

by Timothy Rutt

At Tuesday’s Altadena Town Council meeting:

• Lt. Duane Allen, who has moved from detective lieutenant to operations lieutenant at the Altadena Sheriff Station, introduced Lt. Michael White, who will take over the detective bureau and community relations.  White was recently transferred from the Temple City station.
  
  Allen also said that Altadena Capt. John Benedict was in Washington, D.C., taking part in ceremonies to add the name of Altadena Deputy Charlene Rottler to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial.
• The council recommended approval of a conditional use permit for a liquor license for a new Indian restaurant at 2535 E. Washington Blvd.  Some councilmembers expressed concern that the location was close to residences and the Pasadena Jewish Temple, and wanted provisions to insure that, if sold, a new owner wouldn’t turn it into a bar or club.  The issue now moves to the county planning commission.

 

Peace Officers Memorial Torch Run honors fallen four May 20

The annual Peace Officers Memorial Torch Run starts Friday at the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department headquarters in Monterey Park, and winds its way through all sheriff stations, with the last leg from Crescenta Valley to Altadena on Sun., May 20.  

Arrival of the runners is expected at around 2:30 PM at Altadena Sheriff Station, 780 E. Altadena Drive.  It will be followed by a ceremony honoring all peace officers in California who have fallen in the past year, or who have not been honored in previous years.  This year will also include an LA County constable who died in 1924.

This year the run will commemorate the end of watch (EOW) of:

• Deputy Constable Ed Brown, LASD – EOW 09/14/1924 (and here)
• Officer Anthony Giniewicz, Signal Hill PD – EOW 12/07/2011
• Officer Ryan Stringer, Alhambra PD – EOW 07/10/2011
• Officer Andrew Garton, Hawthorn PD – EOW 05/26.2011

 

Pasadena police to allow limited public access to radio calls

by Adolfo Flores
Pasadena Sun

The Pasadena Police Department, which earlier this year blocked public access to its radio communications, hopes by the end of the month to roll out two ways for residents to track law enforcement activity.

Authorities will post basic information about all calls for service -- including time, location and nature of all police calls --  on the city’s website, according to City Manager Michael Beck.

“Anyone can look at it and it will be automatically updated twice a day,” at 6 a.m. and 4 p.m., Beck said.

Officials also may allow the public to listen to initial calls for service before the department encrypts subsequent communications, such as radio chatter between law enforcement officials about response and logistics.

“You’ll know the call happened, but won’t know the disposition,” Beck said.

Lt. Phlunte Riddle said technical hurdles have led to delays in allowing the public to hear the initial calls. A test last month failed, Riddle said, and staffers are trying to work out the bugs.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

PUSD's special education advisory committee to elect officers, hear update

by Timothy Rutt

The Pasadena Unified School District Special Education Dept. Community Advisory Committee will hold its final meeting of the school year on Mon., May 21, at the Edison Professional Development Complex, 119 W. Palm Avenue, Altadena from 6:15-8:30 PM.  Free childcare and translation is available.

This meeting's topic will include the CAC executive board elections and revision to the bylaws.  There will also be a special education update by Dr. Michael Jason.

Questions and comments can be sent to: joycac1@gmail.com.  More details at: http://cac.pasadenausd.org

Highway patrol's Altadena statistics for March and April

Here are the monthly California Highway Patrol statistics for Altadena, prepared by Officer Kevin Denmon:

March 2012

• Traffic collisions: 26 (21 property damage only, 5 minor injuries, 0 DUI related).  Year-to-Date: 81
• Citations: 73.   Year-to-Date: 235
• Total fatalities: 0
• DUI arrests: 0

April 2012

• Traffic collisions: 25 (15 property damage only, 10 minor injuries, 2 DUI related).  Year-to-Date: 106
• Citations: 91.  Year-to-Date: 326
• Total fatalities: 0
• DUI arrests: 1

 

Town council election to be scaled back

by Timothy Rutt

With two seats going vacant and only one candidate running in each of the other six census tracts, this year’s Altadena Town Council election will be a scaled-down affair, with three polling stations open for only four hours on June 9 and the pre-election voting cancelled entirely, election committee chair Eric Pierce told the council tonight.

Despite the inevitability of the outcome, the town council bylaws say that an election must still go on, according to councilman Gino Sund, whose seat at 4601 is one of the two going vacant next month.  Pierce said that the committee favored going ahead with an election anyway, as everyone should have the opportunity to vote for their census tract representatives.

However, the election will be scaled down: Pierce said that the election committee decided to cancel the June 5 pre-voting for absentees at the Altadena Main Library.  On election day, June 9, there will be only three polling stations open: in the west, Gordy's Garage, 843 W. Woodbury Rd.; centrally, Farnsworth Park, 568 E. Mt. Curve Ave.; and in the east, S&J Auto, 1904 New York Dr.  Residents may vote at any polling place.

Hours will also be scaled back, from 9 AM to 1 PM.  Pierce said that the election committee did not expect a large turnout.

 

Morning jolt

• Go Public: Pasadena Sun's Joe Piasecki has a piece on PUSD's "Go Public" filming last week (we did the micro, he's doing the macro).  An answer to your next question, we've heard the finished shorts will start to appear in July.
• New school site in Altadena? Also at the Pasadena Sun, San Rafael Elementary School will close down, perhaps as early as 2013.  Because it is above four earthquake fault lines under and around the school state law says they cannot modernize it, so therefore it must be abandoned.  Among the scenarios to replace it is  building a new campus at what is now the Pasadena Unified School District's service center on Woodbury Road (across from Jackson Elementary), to the tune of $18.9 million.  Joe Piasecki has the scoop, again.
• Hiker death: Update on the hiker who died in Eaton Canyon Sunday: SGV Tribune is saying that the 57-year-old man, apparently a Texas resident, collapsed during a hike in the Henninger Flats area.
• AK-47 suspect:  According to Lt. Duane D. Allen of Altadena Sheriff Station,  the suspect arrested Sunday in a chase that injured a sheriff's deputy and a pedestrian was Andrew Quezada, 26.  Quezada, who deputies say was found with an AK-47, was charged with unlawful possession of an assault weapon.

 

Peace & Justice Academy open house May 26

by Timothy Rutt

The Peace & Justice Academy is inviting its neighbors to stop in and say hello next weekend in kind of a house-warming party at its new home.

The private 6th-10th grade school follows the principals of the Mennonites, one of the historic Christian peace churches, and admits students of all faiths.  They recently moved into the Arches complex at St. James United Methodist Church, 2033 E. Washington Blvd. along the border (i.e. it has a Pasadena address but is actually in Altadena). 

The school will throw open its doors on Sat., May 26, from 1-5 PM, offering tours, food, entertainment, a cake raffle, and local businesses and nonprofits sharing inforation.

Harambee Ministries, Pasadena General Assembly, Union Station, Bread for the World, California Interfaith Power & Light, Pasadena Pride, and10,000 Villages will have information.  Food will be provided by Mijares, Domenico’s, Egg Roll Express and Café Culture.  The cake raffle features cakes from Anna’s Cake House, Patticakes, Ellen Snortland’s Norwegian Crown Cakes, and Von’s Grocery plus some homemade ones from parents and friends of PAJA.

Our gold level sponsors include David Brock Realtor and Altadena Energy and Solar.  Silver sponsors are Custom Comfort Mattress Store, Café Culture, Viva Driving School, and House of Basturma.

Entertainment will provided by the talented musicians of the Pasadena Youth Community Orchestra, under the direction of Camille Barnes; alternative country recording artist Murry Hammond; fire eaters; an Aikido self-defense demonstration from We Defend and PAJA’s own boy band, with more to come.

 The event is free and family friendly.  Parking is available in the lot off Washington, west of the church.  Look for the balloons and banners.  And check out PAJA on the web at www.ThePeaceAcademy.org.

 

Breaking: Deputies looking for stolen motorcycle suspect

by Timothy Rutt

That chopper traffic and police activity about now (6:30 PM) is the deputies looking for a suspect in a stolen motorcycle case.  According to the Crescenta Valley Station watch commander, a motorcycle was stolen and crashed after a pursuit.  The deputies with chopper are looking for the suspect, who fled on foot.  No weapons are involved at this time.  The search area is around Mariposa St. between Glen Rose and Fair Oaks.

 

Altadena Farmer's Market joins Facebook, announces farms & vendors

by Timothy Rutt

According to our ticker on the left, the Altadena Farmers Market is only 15 or 16 days away, and the excitement is building.

The market just opened a page on Facebook over the weekend for its grand opening, which includes a current list of farmers and vendors:

Famers Include:

• Shu and Debby Takikawa (Garden of.....) farm
• Kenter Canyon Farms
• Suncoast Farms
• Elsers Country Farm
• Farquhar Farms
• John Muir High School Farm
• Drake Family Farm
• Jubilee Farms

Vendors Include:

• Big Mista' BBQ
• Plow & Gun Coffee
• Pine Street Products
• Molany Tubilderborst ~ Bread Lounge
• Sqirl Preserves
• Deisy's Tasty Food
• Beyond the Olive
• Fox Pizza Bus (wood-fired oven on a double decker London bus)
• Mother Moo Organic Ice Cream

The Altadena Farmers Market will open on Wed., May 30, from 3-7 PM at Loma Alta Park near the Community Garden, at the corner of Palm Street and Lincoln Avenue.

Hazardous and E-waste roundup in Altadena May 26

by Timothy Rutt

There will be a hazardous waste and e-waste roundup at the county fleet maintenance yard on Sat., May 26, from 9 AM-3 PM.

What you can bring includes brake fluid, paint, paint thinner, cleanders with acid or lye, pesticides or herbicides, household and car batteries, pool chemicals, motor oil, oil filters, expired medications, anti-freeze, and fluorescent light bulbs.

The roundup will also accept household electronic waste, including computers, monitors, televisions, keyboard, printers, cell phones, etc.

What you can't bring includes hazardous and electronic waste from businesses, explosive, ammunition, and radioactive materials, trash and tires, white goods (refrigerators , stoves, and washing machines); and controlled substances.

Home-generated sharps can be also brought to the roundup.

Bring the items in a sturdy box, preferably in their original labeled containers, do not mix the items together, an there is a limit of 15 gallons or 125 lbs.  of waste per trip. Containers and boxes will not be returned -- remove all other items from your trunk (if it goes like in years past, you will not be allowed to leave your vehicle to direct them).  

For a complete list of what you can or cannot bring, contact 1 888 CLEAN-LA or go to www.CleanLA.com

The fleet maintenance yard is at 252 W. Mountain View Ave.

 

LCF Community Center senior bridge tournament May 25

 

The La Canada Flintridge Community Center will hold its second annual bridge tournament for seniors on Fri., May 25. A $20 registration fee includes dinner.  For more information or to register, call (818) 790-4353.

 

 

One dead, one rescued in separate forest incidents

by Timothy Rutt

It looks to be a busy day for rescue crews in the Angeles National Forest today.

A dead hiker was found this morning around the Mt. Wilson Toll Road near Henninger Flats.  Officials are giving few details, but some reports say it is a man who appears to be in his 50's and it appears to be from natural causes.

Another hiker was airlifted from the Switzer Falls area this afternoon before 3 PM.  Few details available yet.

Welcome to Motherhood, or How Did I Ever Get Into This?

by Sherry Cavallo

The other evening my husband and I were at a party (the birthday cake and ice cream kind) but one of those affairs that grownups attend where you’re expected to come up with more than one syllable words after cooing to an infant and conversing with a toddler all day. 

“So,” someone asked my husband, “How did you get into your line of work?” My husband had no trouble with this question, having answered it for years with a well-rehearsed answer. “Amazingly, I had no training. Once I passed the interview, the company provided all my training”.  I, on the other hand, never have anything well rehearsed to say, unless it’s how I potty-trained my eldest son (who basically did it himself) or how the younger son resisted any mention of using a chair with a hole big enough to swallow him up.

When I answered, what would I say? I’m not going to apologize for being a stay at home Mom, but the thought began to intrigue me. What was my training? I don’t remember going for any advanced classes, not in Mothering 101 anyway. Well, come to think of it, there was this 9-month crash course I took.

I remember my obstetrician's gleeful announcement at the birth of Vincent that put me into a new job with no prior experience and no training. Struggling with the demands of motherhood during the first month, my own mother tried to console me,”It’ll get easier, she assured me. Just take it one day at a time.” One day at a time?!  Was she in her right mind? During the first few weeks I didn’t notice much difference between day or night. A mother with a baby doesn’t have much perception walking around in a stupor from lack of sleep.

My pediatrician smiled. He never was a mother. “You look like you are handling motherhood very well,” he said. I looked at him with glassy eyes and struggled to comprehend just what he meant by this. He can’t be talking to me! I’m just hanging onto my sanity by a thread. The responsibilities of my new job seemed overwhelming-- especially the part about on-call night work. 

The midwife had empathy too, “Well, a lot of motherhood is fantasized,” she admitted. Did I ever come to learn about what an understatement that was! Reality started with back pains which haven’t left yet. All my early years I ate up the media’s image of motherhood-- the new mother sitting in a fully decorated nursery, blissfully rocking her baby (always during the middle of the day) clothes neatly folded on the changing table, a fresh stack of diapers in the holder. Her hair was fluffy, clean and styled. Where was this woman? I’d like to meet her. 

For me those days are far behind. The pitter-patter of little feet are now stomping around or maybe the welcome sound of grandchildren’s muddy shoes.

 But strangely those sounds are more and more like beautiful music and as the years go by I realize there will come a time when I won’t hear so many footsteps in the house and soon all will be too quiet.

I’m still getting on-the-job training with some help from my own dear mother. I must say that the job is constantly challenging and ever changing. As a matter of fact, I like my job very much. I think this job is the best one for me. I hope you're enjoying yours too.

Happy Mother's Day!

-----

Sherry Cavallo practices motherhood in Altadena.

Poetry corner: Mother's Day

"The Magic of MOM "
from gloriana casey


Oh MOM, your name's a palindrome;
it's letters--- they form that.
It reads MOM going to the right.
From left? It reads MOM back!

Dependable, this MOM word is,
in quality so true.
The YOU we always do count on.
Today---you get your due!

Three hundred sixty-five the days,
just one we celebrate.
We ought to celebrate you more;
perhaps a weekly fete?

A magic MOM, in ambigram,
so please do take a bow!
For--even more-- just flip that name,
and MOM turns into WOW!

Altadena Junction: town council, Millard Canyon, and June activities

A look at what's behind us and what's ahead of us in our weekly column for the Pasadena Sun.

 

"The Adventures of Tintin" is May's Library Fun Flick

May's Friday Fun Flick at the Altadena Main Library is Steve Spielberg's "The Adventures of Tintin."

Join intrepid reporter Tintin, Snowy, and Capt. Haddock in a computer-animated adventure for all ages, sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

The film starts at 3:30 PM on Fri., May 25, at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St.  Admission is free.

 

Alleged drunk driver with AK-47 arrested in Altadena

by Brittany Levine
Pasadena Sun

A drunk driver with an AK-47 in his car was arrested after a short pursuit Saturday morning, police said.

Officers spotted the driver at Glen Avenue and Howard Street in Altadena, said Sgt. Debra Herman of the Crescenta Valley Sherriff’s Department.

They attempted to pull him over, but he refused. After a three-minute pursuit, he stopped the car, Herman said.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

Littering is not allowed, but literature is at Pasadena's Central Park

by Timothy Rutt

Pasadena's Central Park was the scene for the first LitFest Pasadena, where authors, publishers, dealers, and fans could gather to celebrate the written word.  A phalanx of booths, above, held many delights for the reader's eye.

Pasadena Star News Public Editor Larry Wilson, left, interviews novelists Alta-author Michelle Huneven (Blame) and Janet Fitch (White Oleander).

Altadena historian Michele Zack leads a panel on historical writing.

 

Food Truck Friday: the return

 

Fancy Food Truck Friday at the Webster's parking lot, May 11, 2012

by Timothy Rutt

Altadenans have been pining after their food trucks, to judge by the crowd that gathered for the return of Fancy Food Truck Friday.

The monthly event, created by Webster's Community Pharmacy, Webster's Fine Stationers, and Webster's Liquor, was rained out for its spring return last month, so everyone was champing at the bit,  so to speak.  Yesterday was a perfect day for a food truck feast, and so the crowd was already at respectable levels within a half hour.  

Six more food trucks are coming next month, but if you want your food truck fix, you can also go down to Pasadena's Central Park for LitFest Pasadena -- there'll be food trucks and books, and it's kind of hard to imagine anything better than that.

 

 

Topanga Fiddle & Banjo Contest honors "Legend" Bob Stane

by Timothy Rutt

The Coffee Gallery Backstage's impresario and Forkmeister Bob Stane has been named the Music Legend Award winner for the 2012 Topanga Banjo and Fiddle Contest.

Stane has been presenting folk and acoustic acts for over 50 years, including at Pasadena's legendary Ice House, which he founded.  After selling the Ice House in 1978, Stane tried retirement but it didn't suit him, and so he founded the Coffee Gallery in Altadena in 1998 as a venue for up-and-coming (or occasional legendary) acts to perform in an intimate setting.

Here's the Topanga Fiddle and Banjo contest write-up on their website.

 

Curves' "Girls Day Out" fundraiser for Relay for Life this afternoon.

Altadenablog sponsor Curves Altadena will kick off National Women's Health Week  with National Curves Day, their annual fundraising event for the Altadena Relay for Life.  There will be food, raffles, massages, luminary making, and shopping.  Visitors will also receive a free 30 day membership to Curves. All proceeds will be donated to the American Cancer Society. The event will be from 1-5 PM today, Sat., May 12, at 2455 N. Lake Ave.  For more information, call (626) 797-9177.

 

Miller Hawkins Productions to chair Five Acres benefit

Inger Miller and Jill Hawkins of Altadena's Miller Hawkins Productions, LLC,will co-chair the ninth annual "Swingin’ on a Star – Up, Up and Away" fundraising event for Five Acres on Sat., June 6 at the Ambassador Campus in Pasadena..

Miller and Hawkins’ association with Five Acres began in 2006 when they moved their events company from downtown Los Angeles to Altadena. One of their goals was to find a nonprofit organization to support and give back to their community. They selected Five Acres as their exclusive charity and have donated their services to the Altadena-based nonprofit over the last six years. Miller and Hawkins have been volunteer event consultants at every fundraising event in support of Five Acres’ various programs.

“We are honored to raise funds with this exciting event so that Five Acres can work to ensure a bright future for children who have faced many life challenges,” said Hawkins in a press release from Five Acres.

 

Jill Hawkins, left, and Inger Miller

This year’s event theme, “Up, Up and Away,” focuses on the jet setting age in the 1960’s when worldwide travel was about the exclusive first class experience.

 

"Swingin' On a Star" is FIve Acres' major annual fundraising event.  Event tickets are available at $250 per person and include live music, cocktails and dinner. The event will feature special guest and emcee, Kent Shocknek, morning news anchor of CBS 2 News. A “duty-free store” will feature premium items and a live auction will offer unique items and experiences. Sponsorship opportunities are available and range from $1,000 to $20,000. Event proceeds will benefit Five Acres’ programs that prevent child abuse, keep families intact and ensure safe, permanent and loving family homes for vulnerable children.

“We’re here for Five Acres,” said Hawkins. “We’re about serving the community and we invite the public to see the good that is Five Acres. They hold a legacy in Altadena and it’s because of the great support of friends, family and the community.”

Five Acres is a child and family services agency that strengthens families and prevents child abuse through treatment and education in community-based and residential programs. Originally established as an orphanage in 1888, today Five Acres offers an array of services including a residential treatment center, a non-public WASC-accredited school, mental health services, foster care, adoption services and domestic violence prevention. For more information on ways to help, contact Kristina Sarenas at ksarenas@5acres.org or (626) 798-6793 ext. 2279.

Miller Hawkins Productions LLC is a full service event coordinating company, specializing in the detailed production of corporate, private and social events. The principals are Inger Miller (Olympic Gold Medalist in the 4x100 meter relay at the 1996 Olympic Games) and Jill Hawkins, a 20 year veteran of the events production industry.  Miller Hawkins Productions was honored as 2009 “California Small Business of the Year,” “Top 40 under 40” by Pasadena Magazine, along with other nominations in several categories from Catersource and Event Solutions.

For more information about this event, contact Jasmine Abghari at 626-798-6793 ext. 2244 or jabghari@5acres.org.

 

 

 

Assembly candidates weigh in on freeway extension, tax initiatives

Candidates for the 41st Assembly District, from left, South Pasadena Mayor Michael Cacciotti, Ed Colton, Pasadena City Councilman Chris Holden, Donna Lowe and Victoria Rusnak at KPCC's Crawford Family Forum. (Adolfo Flores / Times Community News / May 9, 2012)

By Joe Piasecki
Pasadena Sun 

Candidates for the state Assembly district representing Pasadena and South Pasadena differ on how to bolster the struggling economy, but agree on the need for public pension reform and aren’t too keen on a statewide schools tax or plans to extend the Long Beach (710) Freeway.

The three Democrats and two Republicans on the June 5 ballot for the 41st Assembly District addressed voters during a debate sponsored by the Pasadena Sun at Southern California Public Radio’s Crawford Family Forum on Wednesday. Candidates fielded questions from the audience of nearly 100.

Under the state’s new primary system, the top two vote-getters — regardless of party affiliation — will move on to the November general election.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

 

Morning jolt

• Body identified: The body found on Angeles Crest Highway on Thursday has been identified as Noe Vasquez, 35, according to the Los Angeles County coroner.  While no autopsy has been completed, officials say he may have died of a gunshot wound.  Pasadena Sun has more.
• Scholarship luncheon: Gamma Zeta Boulé Foundation (GZBF) announced that they will hold their annual Gamma Zeta Boulé Foundation Scholarship Luncheon, on Sun., June 3, at the Pasadena Hilton. Chris Schauble, KTLA 5 Morning News co-Anchor, will be the host for this celebration and Congressman Adam B. Schiff will be the keynote speaker. Andre Birotte Jr., United States Attorney for the Central District of California, and Robert C. Davidson Jr., Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Art Center College of Design, will be honored for outstanding leadership. The Gamma Zeta Boulé Foundation (GZBF) will also recognize high school seniors graduating from the GZBF LAMP Mentor Program. The GZBF values academic achievement and is committed to ensuring that students have the resources necessary to further their educational pursuits.   For more info ration: http://www.gammazeta.org/
• Booster seat boosters: We're not a big fan of "like me" contests, but this may be worthwhile: SafetyBeltSafe USA, which promotes the use of booster seats, is entered in a Facebook contest for a grant from State Farm to extend its school program.  Booster seat programs are already planned for several Altadena schools:  Rosebud Academy, Aveson Charter School, and Jackson Elementary. For more information and the link, check out PSN's story. 

 

Crime blotter: residential and vehicle burglaries this week

A residential burglary-rama this week.  Blotter by Lt. Duane D. Allen of Altadena Sheriff Station.

Sunday, April 29th
Between 8:00 PM and 9:45 AM (Sunday) – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 700-blk of E. Woodbury Rd.  Suspect(s) entered the vehicle by shattering the rear passenger window.  Loss:  black Garmin GPS, black Pentex D10 camera, camera lens, black Bausch & Lomb binoculars, black camera bag.  *Plain sight*

Monday, April 30th
Between 8:00 AM and 1:45 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 2300 block of Navarro Avenue.  Suspect(s) entered the residence via the rear door.  Loss:  black Samsung plasma tv.
10:00 AM – An assault with a deadly weapon occurred in the area of Calaveras Street. and Harriet Street.  No further information at this time.

Wednesday, May 2nd
6:10 AM – A vandalism occurred in the 1700 block of Atchison Street.  
9:29 AM – A residential burglary occurred in the 700 block of E. Altadena Drive.  Suspect(s) attempted to enter the residence by shattering the side window.  Suspects described as (2) male, African-Americans, 15 – 18 yrs, dark clothing with a hooded sweatshirt.
Between 10:30 AM and 11:45 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 1900 block of Harding Avenue.  Suspect(s) attempted to enter the residence by cutting a square in the window.  After an unsuccessful attempt, the suspects(s) entered through the rear sliding glass door.  Loss:  camp stove and misc. jewelry.
5:24 PM – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 2200 block of N. Fair Oaks Av.  Suspect(s) entered the vehicle by shattering the rear window.  Loss:  red Echo chainsaw, red Kawasaki weed wacker.  *Plain sight*

Thursday, May 3rd
Between 10:30 AM and 12:00 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 1300 block of Sonoma Drive.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by prying the rear kitchen door window.  Loss:  gold diamond ring w/two blue zircons, antique opera glasses pearl in color.
1:50 PM – A burglary shoplifting incident occurred at Ralph’s - 2270 N. Lake Ave.  Suspect was arrested.
Between 7:20 PM and 9:20 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 600 block of Alberta St.  Suspect(s) entered the residence via unknown means.  Loss:  gray Xbox, (8) Xbox video games.
Between 8:00 PM and 12:30 PM (Friday) – A petty theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred in the 90 block of W. Mariposa Street.  Loss:  black USB 8 GB thumb drive.

Friday, May 4th
Between 3:00 AM and 7:00 AM – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 100 block of W. Mariposa Street.  Suspect(s) entered the vehicle by shattering the rear window.  Loss:  IBM laptop.
Between 7:00 AM and 4:30 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 2400 block of Catherine Street.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by shattering the glass portion of rear French doors.  Loss:  unknown at this time.
Between 8:30 AM and 8:00 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 1600 block of Kinneloa Mesa Road.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by prying the window.  Loss:  high amount of US currency, Chinese Yen, gold ring, watch,  misc. coins.
Between 1:15 PM and 5:30 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 200 block of Laurel Drive.  Suspect(s) entered the residence via the unlocked front door.  Loss:  solitaire diamond earrings, silver Tiffany necklace, silver Sieko watch.
11:54 PM – A discharge of firearm at an inhabited dwelling occurred in the 500 block of Figueroa Drive.  No further information at this time.

 

Joanne Adams is May's Coffee Gallery artist

The Coffee Gallery's featured artist for May is Joanne Adams:

Throughout my life, I have maintained a fascination with people, the human form as well as the human condition. Engrossed for hours with my mom’s medical books, I was fascinated by their pictures of anatomy, how the body functioned and how we look under this skin (it’s all the same, folks). 

There will be an artist's reception for Adams this Sunday, May 13, from 4-6 PM at the Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake.