altadenablog

In the merry month of May

Students at the Pasadena Waldorf School in Altadena dance around the Maypole on May 3.  The school's annual May Faire is an opportunity for grandparents and special friends to visit the school and celebrate spring.

Alta-artist S.A. Smith in two exhibitions this month

Recent work by Altadena artist S.A. Smith is on display at two local galleries in May.

Tah Gallery, 1015 Mission Street in South Pasadena, will display his work through June 9.  For information, the gallery website is www.tahgallery.com.

His  constructed box “Transformation” is included in the exhibition “Changes,” a Pasadena Society of Artists show at the Pasadena Public Library Main Branch during the month of May.

Smith was born in Japan but has lived in Altadena since he was a year old. His recent work reflects influences from both Asia and the Americas – a fusion of cultures. He is a graduate of Pasadena schools and received a BA from Occidental College, where his mentor was Robert Hansen.

Library's Teen Graphic Novel Book Club meets May 30

The Altadena Library's Teen Graphic Novel Book club meets on Thurs., May 30, at the Community Room of the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa Street, starting at 4 PM.

The club, open to all teens ages 13-17. To learn more, stop by the Youth Reference Desk.  It's fun, FREE, and easy.  Space is limited, so sign up today.

West Altadena PCC trustee Geoffrey Baum stepping down

by TImothy Rutt

Twelve year Pasadena City College board member Geoffrey Baum has sent out a message that he will not be seeking re-eelection.

Baum represents Trustee Area 1, which includes  La Cañada Flintridge, the San Rafael and Linda Vista neighborhoods of west Pasadena, and the western portions of Altadena.  In 2006, he was appointed to a six year term on the California Community Colleges Board of Governors by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.

In a statement, Baum said that family concerns played a role in not seeking a fourth term:

Most of all, I am (undeservedly) fortunate that (wife) Lisa and (daughter) Amy have been willing to put up with the demands and sacrifices of nights and weekends away from home that come with serving in elective office. After each election, I promised Lisa (and then Amy, who was not around for that first campaign in 2001) that it would be the last term. This time, I reached the conclusion that it would be wise to avoid testing the limits of their patience and risk falling short in my professional and personal responsibilities (including taking out the trash on Wednesday nights).

Baum said that he will continue to serve on the community college board.  He is also the managing director of the University of Southern California's Annenberg School for Communication Center on Communication Leadership and Policy.

NBBA to host town council candidate forum May 29

by Timothy Rutt

Neighbors Building a Better Altadena (NBBA) has announced that it will host a candidate forum for Altadena Town Council candidates at the Community Center on Wed., May 29.

According to NBBA, all 17 candidates have been invited, and will be asked to respond to questions provided ahead of time as well as take questions from the audience.  Marge NIchols will moderate.

"Our goal in hosting the Forum is to increase participation in Altadena's most local election.  We wanted to offer the opportunity for Altadenans to come together to talk about our future," according to Nicole Moore of NBBA.

The forum will be held from 7-8:30 PM at the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Dr.  The election is Saturday, June 8.

For more information about the Candidate Forum or Neighbors Building a Better Altadena: mail@buildingabetteraltadena.org or call 626-344-7806

2,236 without power Saturday morning [UPDATED]

by Timothy Rutt

Southern California Edison reports that 2,236 customers in Altadena are currently without power, and no estimate as to when they will be up.  We're still trying to pinpoint the locations affected.

UPDATE: as of 1:30 PM, down to 196 customers, and they blame trees on the lines.

 

Buick goes Altadena in new long-form ad

 

Daniel Kent, left, and Steve Rudicel at the Zane Grey Estate's library before setting off on their Buick adventure.

by Timothy Rutt

Now the car companies have discovered Altadena ....

On the heels of the Audi commercial featuring Spock vs. Spock at the Altadena Town & Country Club, Buick has released a long-form commercial marinated in Altadena. The premise: Daniel Kent (Plow & Gun Coffee) is taking his friend Steve Rudicel (Zane Grey Estate, Press Restaurant, Institute of Domestic Technology) out for a one-day Airstream vacation, but not before stopping at Altadenan Karen Klemens' Mother Moo Creamery and at the studio of California Bohemian Leather (Lance Anderson and Marisol Martinez) before heading off for some R&R.  It's a great ad with great people in it.  Now we'll be known for our food culture and car commercials ...

SInce the commercial automatically starts, we've put it after the jump so you don't have to hear it all the time!

Aveson hosts "Helping Kids Handle Stress" May 23

from the Aveson School for Leaders

Parents, educators and other professionals working with children are invited to a free, open-to-the-public “Helping Kids Handle Stress” parent education event on Thursday, May 23, 6:30-8:30 PM at Aveson School of Leaders, 1919 E. Pinecrest Drive in Altadena.

“Helping Kids Handle Stress” will shed light on how stress impacts our children’s learning and ability to interact effectively in everyday situations. Five expert panelists will discuss what stress is, how it affects your child’s brain and behavior and what parents, teachers -  and children themselves - can do to help.  

According to Aveson School of Leaders director, Kate Bean, school, siblings, friends, parents, and even summer vacation are all a source of joy in a child’s life and a source of stress. Although stress is unavoidable, children can learn to handle it and even thrive from it.

“Our goal is to educate adults on how to help children identify stress, learn how to respond to it and ultimately use it to make a positive impact on their lives,” says Bean.  “Our Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Action Team is one of many teams addressing these issues and we are proud to offer it to the community at-large.”

Panelists include Dr. Peter Gero, founder and director of the BLAST Social Skills Program; Dr. Niki Elliott, founder of Innerlight Sanctuary; Ariel Wrye, parent educator and professional trainer at Echo Parenting and Education; and Shay Sayani and Jennifer Carey, Aveson School of Leaders advisors.  

For more information about the Helping Kids Handle Stress parent education event, contact Aveson School of Leaders’ Social Emotional Learning Action Team at SocialEmotionalLearning@aveson.org or call 626-797-1440.

Found: turtle on Mendocino [He's home]

Five years we've gone without a missing turtle, and this year two.

Jamie Bissner writes that he's (or rather, his dog) found a 4 1/2 in. in diameter red-eared slider on the 2200 block of Maiden Lane midway to Norwic Place. As these are non-native (in fact invasive) and riparian (i.e. river-dwelling), and fast-moving for a turtle, this is probably somebody's errant pet.  

UPDATE: It was -- he's gone home now.

 

 

Release the hounds .....

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1. The calm before the storm: the library's Community Room awaits buyers before the sale begins. 2. Earlybird buyers wait impatiently outside for the 3 PM opening. 3-4. And they're off!  Buyers filled boxes, bags, backpacks, and their arms as fast as they could to get the low-hanging good stuff.

 

by Timothy Rutt

The bookhounds, that is, as the Altadena Library opened up its annual book sale to earlybird buyers Friday afternoon. Members of Friends of the Altadena Library could get into the sale early, and hard-core readers (and several used book dealers) ran inside when the doors opened to pick the sweetest fruit.  Have no fear, there are plenty of books left.  The sale continues Saturday from 10 AM-4 PM and Sunday from 1-4 PM.

Altadena Junction: a memorial and summer in the park

Our column for the Pasadena Sun is already online, looking at the Memorial Day ceremony at Mountain View Cemetery.

Found: tame pigeon or dove [Updated: Adopted]

Roberto writes:

FOUND 7 pm May 17, 2013
White crested pigeon (or dove?) with black tail. Very tame. No band.

Found in our yard, on Beverly Drive (near Washington and Allen). The bird seemed to be trying to get into the house (coop?) and was very easy to catch. 

We do not have a proper coop or pen; we have the bird is in a pet carrier with water and food. If we don't find an owner by Monday, we will need to take it to the Humane Society.

Please call Roberto at 626-394-0714.

UPDATE 5/20: The pigeon has been adopted into a new home that knows how to take care of them.

Seventeen throw down for town council seats [UPDATED]

by Timothy Rutt

NOTE: This story has been revised to include Samir A. Sahegh -- election chair Eric Pierce said Sahegh called in as he was stuck in traffic and couldn't turn be at the community center to turn in his application by the 5 PM cutoff.

Altadena town council elections tend to run cold and hot.  Last year -- with only 78 valid votes cast -- it was cold.

This year, it's hot.

Seventeen residents threw their hats in the ring for next month's election, and four incumbents opted not to run again.

But in one census tract, there's no competition: nobody entered for Census Tract 4603.02.

Candidates will be invited to a forum at the next town council meeting, May 21.  The election will be held June 8.

The list of candidates running is after the jump.

Open all night: Tonalism at Zorthian Ranch June 15-16

by Timothy Rutt

The New Los Angeles Folk Festival presents "Tonalism, " an all-night ambient music happening, at the Zorthian Ranch from 6 PM June 15-6 AM June 16:

Tonalism is a dusk-to-dawn event inspired by La Monte Young’s “Dream House” as well as the work of musicians and composers such as Terry Riley, Yoko Ono and John Cage. Tonalism combines harmonious textures in a surround sound system with visual elements to create an atmosphere where the audience is encouraged to bring pillows, cushions and sleeping bags to lay down, listen and watch for an extended period of time. DJs, live musicians and video artists play and perform throughout the night; starting at sunset and ending at sunrise. Complimentary tea and water are provided to all who attend.

All ages are welcome, and the event is free.

Working for the weekend, May 17-19

A lot to do this weekend, but first a word from our sponsors:

• Friends of the Library's annual book sale will be going on at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St.,  all weekend.  Get great deals on any and all books on any topic you can imagine.  Presale for members of Friends of the Library is from 3-7 PM today.  Saturday, the sale continues in the Library's community room from 10 AM-4 PM, and Sunday from 1-4 PM.  You can join the Friends anytime (including on the spot during the sale) for as little as $25.
• The Arroyo Food Co-op will have its annual meeting in its new digs, 494 N. Wilson Avenue, Pasadena, on Saturday, May 18, starting at 2 PM.  Agenda includes electing officers and touring the site.
• Altadena Ale & Wine House, 2329 N. Fair Oaks Ave., will hold a benefit for its recreational soccer team from 3-5 PM Saturday.  It's a wine tasting, so $20 gets you seven different wines.  Pasta, baguette, and cheese are part of the deal, and all proceeds go to the team.

So what else is going on?

Friday, May 17

• Deadline to turn in candidate packets for the Altadena Town Council is at 5 PM today at the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Dr.
• Deadline for vendors to apply to the Library's annual "Art on Millionaires' Row" arts and crafts fair, to be held June 8.  Go here for more details.
• Caltech ends its musical  year with a bang at the annual Bandorama at Ramo Auditorium on campus.  Show is free, starts at 8 PM, and repeats Saturday, also at 8 PM.

Saturday, May 18

• The Firehouse School's annual Yard and Bake Sale, 7 AM-1 PM. 1923 N. Allen Ave in Altadena (on the corner of Allen & New York)

Sunday, May 19

• Masjid Al-Taqwa Mosque invites the Altadena community to an afternoon of food, family, music and friends at the Straight P.A.T.H. (Positive Actions Through Harmony) Festival and Concert on Sunday, May 19, from 12 - 5 PM.  The festival takes place in the Davies Building at Farnsworth Park, 568 E. Mt. Curve Avenue. This year is the sixth annual Invited Guest Series, featuring Joshua Salaam of the Muslim hip-hop group Native Deen.Tickets are available through Brown Paper Tickets, but pre-sale tickets are now available at the discounted price of $20 each. To get your discounted tickets, email Kameelah Wilkerson at kamelina@yahoo.com.
• Sheriff Station: The annual Peace Officer's Memorial Torch Run run ends at about 2 PM at the Altadena Sheriff Station.
• Mary Gothard is unloading a boatload of textiles at her sale from 10 AM-6 PM Sunday at her home,  215 Laurel Drive.

 

Town council candidate's forum highlights May council meeting

by Timothy Rutt

Candidates for the Altadena Town Council will get a chance to sell themselves as part of the regular town council meeting Tuesday, May 21.

Lots of reports, but other than approving the slate of candidates and other election-related matters, no action is currently on the agenda.

The Altadena Town Council meets at 7 PM Tues., May 21, at the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Dr.  Agenda after the jump.

Reporting missing/found pets on Altadenablog

by Timothy Rutt

We have made a decision to close our missing/found pet form after several months. There were several problems with it: it had become unreliable (some reports didn' t make it to us for days) and some people could never figure out how it worked.  There was also no capability for sending pictures thru the form -- they had to be sent separately, and that lost some convenience points.

Not that we're not going to report missing and found pets -- this is one of our main jobs!  What we ARE asking is that, if you have found or lost a pet, you include some basic information:

WHO: You are, so we can resolve this successfully

WHAT: Description of pet, including identifying marks, collar, microchipping, etc.

WHEN: When did you find it/ lose it

WHERE: Location where you found it/lost it/last seen

HOW: Tell us some of the circumstance of how the pet was lost or found -- maybe it will spark somebody.

We love our animals, and they should all go back to the homes of people who love them!   Just write to: altadenablog@gmail.com, and include a picture if you can.

 

Ale House wine tasting fundraiser Saturday

Don't forget that the Altadena Ale & Wine House, 2329 N. Fair Oaks Ave., is having a wine tasting fundraiser for their soccer team this Saturday, May 18, from 3-5 PM.

$20 buys you seven wines, and cheese baguette and pasta will be served.  Wines include white, sparkling, rose, and reds from around the world.

All proceeds go to the team.

"Arohi" raga jazz at the Folly Bowl May 25

The Folly Bowl opens up its concert season with the Arohi Ensemble on Saturday, May 25, at 7 PM.

Arohi describes itself as "Raga Jazz Chamber Music," with Paul Livingstone (sitar), Pedro Eustache (bansuri and flute), Leonice Shinnerman (tabla & percussion), Dave Lewis (drums) and Peter Jacobson (cello).

Tickets are $15 suggested donation or $10 for students at the door.

The Folly Bowl is at 1601 E. Loma Alta Drive.  Please bring a blanket for warmth, and pack out any food you bring in.

Bearwatch: Muir students' bear awareness film takes first place in contest

 

by Timothy Rutt

Two student filmmakers from John Muir High School won a $500 first place award from the California Division of Fish and Wildlife for their bear awareness film.

Jose Nuno and Alex Burgos competed in the Division's annual Bear Aware Film Contest, to raise awareness about  securing food and trash in black bear habitat.

"This is our second year holding the Bear Aware Film Contest, and we were very impressed with the thoughtfulness and creativity that went into these films,” said Marc Kenyon, CDFW’s bear program manager. “The contest is a great way to engage our youth in helping to conserve our natural resources while also informing the public about their responsibilities in keeping black bears wild.”

Second prize of $300 went to Hasmik Djoulakian from Clark Magnet School in Glendale, and the third-place prize of $200 went to Chase Baker, Erik Bakhshi and Boris Kitapszyan, also from Clark Magnet School.

The film contest, which focused on student in the San Gabriel Valley, was made possible by donations from Sierra Club ($600) and Bass Pro Shop in Rancho Cucamonga ($400).

 

Sheriff's Support Group Golf Classic at Brookside June 14.

by Timothy Rutt

The Sheriff's Support Group of Altadena will hold its second annual Community Golf Classic at Brookside Golf Club in Pasadena on Friday, June 14.

Cost is $150 per player, or $500 per foursome.  Proceeds go to the Sheriff's Support Group.

For more information, contact Deputy Michael Spina at 626-296-2105 or Sgt. Matthew Rossier at 626-296-2106.

 

Morning jolt: need some biofuel?

 

• A tasty ride:  Chef Paul Ragan at Alta-Eats (don't worry, we've got a story underway) says he has used rice bran and soy oil, and is looking to give it to somebody with a biofuel vehicle. Email: paul@altaeats.com.
• Textiles:  If you're a fan of vintage cloth, a crafter or sew-er or anything like that, check out Mary Gothard's textile sale  this Sunday from 10 AM-6 PM. "Must share my wealth. Come and see vintage fabrics, old quilts and quilt tops. I have vintage lace, rickrack and hand-made doilies." 215 Laurel Drive.

 

Firehouse School Yard & Bake Sale fundraiser Saturday

The Third Annual Firehouse School Yard & Bake Sale Fundraiser will take place on Saturday, May 18 from 7AM-1 PM. The sale is at the school located at 1923 N. Allen Ave in Altadena (on the corner of Allen & New York). 

All items have been lovingly donated by the families of Firehouse School including the array of fresh, home baked goods. ALL proceeds go to the school & fund items such as new playground equipment and year end activities for the kids.

Items are gently used/worn and in working condition and include books, infant gear, kids clothing/shoes, adult clothing/shoes, housewares, toys, and the like. Please stop by to support our local school!

Kitty found on Crest Drive -- can we sent it home?

I am lost on Crest Dr. and have found a nice family to provide me with food and water, but I miss my family!  Do you know where I live?

Cat is very friendly but coyotes are everywhere. Time is of the essence. Contact Mike at 626-429-0991 if you know anything about her home.

Town council deadline Friday; can submit applications as late as 10 PM Wed-Thurs.

from the Altadena Election Committee:

Applications for the 2013 Altadena Town Council Elections are due no later than 5:00 pm on Friday, May 17, at the Altadena Community Center – 730 East Altadena Drive.  The Community Center is open late on Wednesday and Thursday, from 1:00 to 10:00 pm, and Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Applications can be downloaded from AltadenaElection.org, or picked up at the clerk’s window at the Community Center.  A map of the eight census tracts is also available on the website.

Cooper re-elected as PUSD board chair

by Joe Piasecki
Pasadena Sun

A political standoff over who should lead the Pasadena Unified school board ended Tuesday with its members voting 4-2 to reinstall Renatta Cooper as president for a third consecutive year.

In addition to running school board meetings, the board president has the power to veto proposed discussion topics or bring them up for a vote.

Resolution of the school district’s leadership limbo comes as the board grapples with appointing a seventh member to fill out their ranks, one who may be crucial in deciding the balance of power among local education officials.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

Peace Office Memorial Torch Run ends at Altadena Sheriff Station May 19

from the Altadena Sheriff Station

Altadena deputies, families and friends will pick up the torch from Crescenta Valley Station and run into Altadena at approximately 2 PM, on Sunday, May 19, 2013. The Memorial Torch will run its final leg through Altadena to the Altadena Sheriff's Station. We would like to invite the public to cheer on the runners as they make their way north at Woodbury Road north onto N. Windsor Ave. and then east on Ventura St., north bound on Casitas Ave. to Altadena Dr. and then east bound to the Altadena Sheriff's Station. 

The Memorial Torch Relay run was established in 1976 to honor the memory of those brave, dedicated peace officers in Los Angeles County who have sacrificed their lives in the performance of their duties. 

This three day run consists of 56 legs with each leg approximately 5 to 10 miles in length and covering more than 300 miles. The memorial torch will pass to each of the mainland sheriff’s stations throughout the county. Avalon Station will conduct their relay on the island during the week. Over 2,000 runners, most of whom are peace officers run during their off duty time to honor the lives of the fallen. The relay run will begin Friday morning, May 17 at the Sherman Block Sheriff’s Headquarters Building in Monterey Park and travels to each mainland Los Angeles County Sheriff’s patrol station, ending at our very own Altadena Sheriff Station. Sheriff Lee Baca commemorates the event by leading the first leg of the run. 

Cancer survivors, caregivers meet for breakfast at Amy's Patio Café Tuesday

Survivors and caregivers at the May 14 Relay for Life breakfast at Amy's Patio Café.

 

by  Heather Morrow

On Tuesday, May 14, the Relay For Life of Altadena hosted their Cancer Survivor & Caregiver Breakfast at Amy’s Patio Café.  Amy’s Patio Café generously offered to sponsor the event and served a choice of egg or pancake breakfast to attendees.  In most communities, this event is scheduled before Relay to celebrate survivors and their caregivers.

“I am honored to offer the Survivor & Caregiver Breakfast at my restaurant, Amy’s Patio Café, in memory of my beloved mother-in-law, Camille," said Amy's owner, Amie Moore. " We lost Camille a couple of years ago to a very aggressive form of breast cancer.  It was much too soon, as she never had a chance to meet our adoptive son or participate in other joyous life events that everyone should get to celebrate.”

The Relay For Life of Altadena invites individuals who want to celebrate the lives of those who have faced cancer, remember loved ones lost and fight back against the disease to join its Relay For Life, scheduled for Saturday, June 1, 2013 in Altadena at Farnsworth Park. Relay For Life is an overnight community celebration where individuals and teams camp out, barbecue, dance, and take turns walking around a track relay style to raise funds to fight cancer.  At nightfall, participants will light hundreds of luminaria around the track in a moving ceremony to honor cancer survivors as well as friends and family members lost to the disease.  

The American Cancer Society Relay For Life represents hope that those lost to cancer will never be forgotten, that those who face cancer will be supported, and that one day cancer will be eliminated.

Altadena is “In It to Win It”!  To join a Relay For Life of Altadena, call 1-800-ACS-2345, or visit ww.RelayForLife.org/altadenaca.

Webster's Fine Stationers to hold mini-grant workshop May 21

by Timothy Rutt

LaQuetta M. Shamblee will hold a mini-grantwriting workshop at Webster's Fine Stationers on Tuesday, May 21, from 6-8 PM.

Shamblee is the author of "The Grantbuilder Step-by-Step Grant Writing Workbook." 

Let La Quetta guide you through the pathways to receiving grant funding. La Quetta has extensive hands-on experience in the nonprofit sector, including grants administration and contracts management.  She has managed mufti-disciplinary staff and grant-funded programs at some of the largest HIV/AIDS organizations in Southern California.  She served as the financial administrator for Los Angeles County's second largest HIV outpatient clinic, Deputy Director for Caring for Babies with AIDS and Director of Programs and Services for AIDS Service Center in Pasadena, CA.

The workbooks is available at Webster's for #35.  Buy the book and attend the $30 grant workshop at half price. 

Register here, although admission will also be accepted at the door.

 

Pasadena Master Chorale has free open rehearsal tonight

by Timothy Rutt

The Pasadena Master Chorale will hold a free open rehearsal tonight at 7:30 PM at the  First Congregational Church, 464 E Walnut St., Pasadena.

The performance will be at the same location on Saturday, May 18, at 7:30 PM. Tickets are available here.

Special Education advisory committee meeting Monday

Announcing the May Pasadena Unified School District/SELPA Special Education Dept. Community Advisory Committee general meeting at the PUSD Education Center.

Topics: Looking Ahead to 2013-14, 2013-14  CAC Board Elections and SELPA  Update

We would like to your ideas for the CAC's priorities for 2013-14 School Year

Questions and comments can be sent to: joycac1@gmail.com

Please note the new venue and that the venue will periodically change.

When: Monday 20th May, 6.15pm to 8.30pm

Where: Elbie J. Hickambottom Board Room, PUSD Education Center Room #236, 351 South Hudson Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91101

Free childcare and translation.

More details are available at: http://cac.pasadenausd.org

Crime blotter: vandalisms, burglary, some battery and check forgery

A smorgasbord of miscreants this week: burglaries, vandalism, narcotics and battery on a peace officer (not a good move).  The crime blotter is provided by the Altadena Sheriff Station 

Sunday, May 5

Between 6:30 PM and 11:00 AM (Monday) – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 200 block of W. Acacia St. Loss: car stereo. 

9:32 AM – Suspect Jose Soto, (male/32 yrs.) of Pasadena was arrested in the 2300 block of Glenrose Avenue for being a felon in possession of a gun. 

12:45 PM – Suspect Ramon Hernandez (male/31 yrs.) was arrested in the 500 block of Crosby Street for violating a domestic violence restraining order. 

2:38 PM – Suspect Stanley Ludd (male/61 yrs.) was arrested in the 900 block of Lake Avenue, for possession of narcotics paraphernalia and for an outstanding warrant. 

7:21 PM – Suspect Damon Caldwell (male/47) was arrested at “RJ’s Liquor” on Woodbury Road for being drunk in public. The suspect was contacted by deputies after he was causing a disturbance at the location. 

Monday, May 6

7:13 AM – A vehicle was reported stolen from the 4100 block of Canyon Crest Road. ***Vehicle was recovered by LAPD Hollywood on 5/10/13*** 

Between 9:00 PM and 6:00 AM (Tuesday) – A residential burglary occurred in the 1300 block of New York Drive. Loss: construction tools. 

Tuesday, May 7 

A 15 year old suspect was arrested for vandalism after breaking a window in the 2900 block of El Nido Drive. (Group Home). 

Thursday, May 9

Between 1:00 AM and 6:00 AM – A vehicle vandalism occurred in the 300 block of Laun Street. Suspects unknown broke the vehicle’s driver’s side window. 

Between 9:45 AM and 10:50 AM – A residential burglary occurred in the 1700 block of E. Mendocino Street. Loss: checks and jewelry. ***Possible suspect(s) driving a mustard colored cargo truck*** 

Friday, May 10

Between 1:00 AM and 7:00 AM – A vandalism occurred in the 1400 block of Crest Drive. Suspects unknown bent a front gate, possibly by kicking it open. 

9:36 PM – Suspect Zachary Ward (male/22 yrs.) of Altadena was arrested for battery on a peace officer. 

Saturday, May 11

1:57 PM – Suspect Gevork Jabakchurian, 30 yrs, of Pasadena was arrested at the Bank of America, 2345 N. Lake Ave. for grand theft, burglary, and check forgery. 

**** 

Between May 5th and May 11th there were 6 runaway juveniles reported to the Altadena Sheriff Station. 

Altadena Farmers' Market offers even more this summer

by Timothy Rutt

In addition to the new summer hours (4-8  PM) and "picnic in the park" (see previous story here), the Altadena Farmer's Market is offering even more this summer.

Market manager Joseph Shuldiner writes:

We are currently organizing programing to take place at the market from June – September. The program is called Summer Nights at the Altadena Farmers’ Market. We will have four different programs and also a new stage area on the Great Lawn, adjacent to the market .

Summerstock - Featuring local entertainers and performers

Summer Camp - Our series of food demonstrations and DIY food projects

Summer School – Lectures and panels on food, agriculture and other related topics

Summer Movies – Screening of food-related movies and documentaries.

And, he says, they keep adding new vendors:

Last week we welcomed Pizza of Venice to the market! They have a “You Buy it We Bake it” policy, which is a fun and interactive way for customers to eat market produce at the market! Next week (May 22) we have the privilege of adding El Huarache Azteca to the market. Huarache is a wonderful family run Mexican restaurant in Highland Park. They will be serving up some wonderful Mexican food and aquas frescas in the Altadena Farmers’ Market expanding “Food Circle”!

The Altadena Farmer's Market is on Wednesdays at Loma Alta Park on Palm Street, at the corner of LIncoln Avenue, next to the Altadena Community Garden.

Caltech's free Bandorama on Friday and Saturday

The Caltech-Occidental Concert Band and Caltech Jazz Band, directed by William Bing, are pleased to present the 33rd annual Bandorama.  This free concert will place on Friday, May 17, and Saturday, May 18 at 8 PM in Caltech’s Ramo Auditorium.

Featured on the concert band half of the program will be music from "Les Miserables", "On the Town", "West Side Story", and "Candide".  The jazz band will perform music from the Count Basie Library as well as more contemporary sounds from local composers.

Guest conductors will be Christine Loza and Jeffrey Thompson. Both guest conductors have played in the band for many years and will receive their Ph.D.’s from Caltech in June.

The concerts are free and no tickets are required. There is free parking nearby. Early arrival is encouraged, as these concerts are popular and well attended. For further information, please visit bands.caltech.edu or call (626) 395-3295.

Cooling centers open for triple-digit hot weather

Triple-digit temperatures are again getting the attention of humans and pets alike in the greater Los Angeles area.

The Los Angeles County Health Officer would like to remind everyone that precautions should be taken, especially by older adults, caretakers of infants and children, individuals who participate in outdoor activities, and individuals who are sensitive to the heat.

“Everyone should remember to take special care of themselves, children, the elderly, and their pets. When temperatures are high, prolonged sun exposure may cause dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke,” said Jonathan E. Fielding, MD, MPH, Director of Public Health and Health Officer. “Never leave children, elderly people, or pets unattended in vehicles, even with the windows ‘cracked’ or open, as temperatures inside can quickly rise to life-threatening levels.”

Local cooling centers are: the Altadena Senior Center, 560 E. Mariposa St., Monday-Friday, 8 AM-5 PM;  and the Pasadena Senior Center, 85 W. Holly Street, Monday-Friday 8:30 AM-4:30 PM, Saturday 8:30 AM-3 PM.

Library's Fun Flick Friday: "Beautiful Creatures" May 24

The Library's Friday Fun Flick on May 24 is "Beautiful Creatures."

Rated PG-13, the film starts at 3:30 PM in the Community Room of the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. .

Admission is free, and snacks and drinks will be available.

 

Institute workshop says: have fun, but always use a condiment

"Deconstructing Kitchen Condiments" is the next workshop from the Intitute of Domestic Technology, to be held Saturday, May 25, 10 AM-noon at the Zane Grey Estate.

Explore dijon mustard, fermented ketchup, vegan Worcestershire Sauce, and Sriracha without the rooster.

Cost is $95 (includes ingredients, supplies and tastings)

Our guide is Zach Negin, impresario of mustard and owner of SoNo Mustard company. We'll explore life beyond mustard 101 beginning with:

Dijon Mustard: Create a beautifully smooth Dijon mustard with white wine. That's just for starters

Fermented Ketchup: We'll dive into the world of fermented ketchup that will forever change your mind about that squeeze bottle sitting in your refrigerator door.

(Vegan) Worcestershire Sauce: Next comes a vegan worcestershire sauce recipe from the Institute director's cookbook "Pure Vegan".  Who knew that those pesky anchovies give commercial worcestershire sauce that umami flavor? We'll prove them wrong with our homemade "veganshire" version.

Sriracha: If you love that spicy, Asian hot sauce in the squeeze bottle with a rooster printed on it, you'll love making your own. Our version doesn't contain Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Bisulfite, or Xanthan Gum … I hope you don't mind?

 Learn more and register here

Two wandering pooches looking for a home

How can you not love this story?:

Hi! Can you help us or know of someone who can? We are looking for a family or two to call our own.

We were found running the streets together. They told us the streets are pretty dangerous for a couple of little guys like us. Neither of us is micro-chipped.

I am the poodle– the cute guy on the left. You’d never believe it now, but I started out looking like a mop! I don’t think I ever had a haircut because I had long dreadlocks – that hurt whenever I moved.  But look at me now! My rescue person gave me the smartest “do” I ever had. Don’t I look great? I feel terrific! I am not sure how old I am but, likely between 6-12 months old. I must have lived outside all my life, because I am not house trained – yet! People tell me I am very smart and a real sweetie!

I am the Chihuahua – the small one on the right who loves belly rubs! I don’t really know how old I am but somewhere between 6 and 12 months old. I must have been living outside all my life too, because I am not house trained either – yet! I am very smart and well behaved otherwise, so please don’t hold that against me. I am not neutered, but my rescue person can help with that.

We both love lots of attention, playing, being petted, good food and napping. Well, come to think of it….who doesn’t, right?

Can you help us find good homes, either together or separately?

And that’s our story…

Can you offer a wonderful home to us?

If you are interested, please call Lucy at 310-709-3744

PUSD board must sift through 38 names to fill vacant at-large seat

by Timothy Rutt

Thirty-eight candidates have thrown their name into the hat to fill the remaining two years of an atl-large board seat with the Pasadena Unified School District.

When Kim Kenne of Altadena recently won election to a new sub-district seat, she resigned her at-large seat (the district is switching to a representative-by-district system, rather than electing each member at large).  PUSD advertised for candidates to fill the remaining two years of the at-large term.  The winning candidate will be selected by the school board.

Among the candidates are several Altadenans: retiree Serafin Espinoza; Hermond D. Cooper, who ran against Kenne in the March election; Ioakin P. Boutakidis, a professor at CSU-Fulllerton; Cushon C. Bell, who ran against Renatta Cooper as a write-in candidate in 2011; and Hanna H. MacLaren, who lists her profession as "Educator-Community Partners, Los Angeles Coalition of Essential Schools."

Other notable candidates include other unsuccessful candidates in the last school board election.  Besides Cooper,  Guillermo Arce,  Luis C. Ayala, Ruben Hueso, and Stella Murga also put in their applications. German Barrero ran for PUSD board in 2005.

Tony Brandenburg, a special education advocate and frequent guest blogger at the Sierra Madre Tattler, also submitted an application, as well as George A. Brumder, former president and current vice-president of the Pasadena Educational Foundation.

A full list of candidates is available here.

 

Space Oddity

We always like to say that Altadenablog is the only local news website that also covers space (because we love JPL and all who work there).

So we're sharing this music video from Commander Chris Hadfield, who just landed after five months at the International Space Station. Because it's cool.

 

Memorial Day at Mountain View remembers Civil War Vets and living history

by Timothy Rutt

Mountain View Cemetery will commemorate Memorial Day on May 27 by honoring Civil War veterans and with "living history" as presenters play the roles of Thaddeus Lowe, Native Americans, and the women who were left home as their men marched to war.

Historian Nick Smith said that the Sons of the Union Veterans and United Daughters of the Confederacy will be participating in decorating the Civil War graves in the cemetery.  There will also be "living history" enactors of Lowe and other historical characters who are buried at Mountain View.

"In addition to the ceremony, we will be decorating graves with flags and flowers. We try to include at least some of the veterans of other wars, especially the section of Spanish American War veterans who are buried just inside the cemetery gate," Smith writes.

Over the last year, another researcher and I have been spending time locating and verifying more veteran graves at the cemetery. Long-term, the goal is to obtain markers for the ones currently unmarked. Sadly, a change in federal regulations a few years ago made it more difficult to get them marked, as the cemetery now needs to get a living descendant to sign off on the paperwork to get a veteran marker for an unmarked grave. If a family died out, or if descendants can’t be found, the grave can only be marked by raising funds privately. We managed that for one Civil War nurse, but would need to raise a LOT of money to handle the rest.

Smith writes that they now believe around 700 Civil War soldiers have been buried at Mountain View, and have located the graves of over 600 of them.  "It’s been a challenge because of things like misspelled names," Smith writes.  "Sometimes the headstone, cemetery records and obituary all spell a name differently, with the person’s military records having a fourth spelling. And that doesn’t even count the ones who changed their name, for one reason or another, or who went by a middle name or nickname."

The ceremony  will begin at 2 PM Memorial Day, Monday, May 27 at Mountain View Cemetery, 2400 N. Fair Oaks Avenue.

 

Bard I: Love's labors at Farnsworth Park

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The California Shakespeare Ensemble performed "Shakespeare's LOVERS" in Farnsworth Park Sunday evening.  1. Samantha Sloyan (Olivia) and Kate Siegel (Viola, masquerading as Cesario) in a scene from Twelfth Night; 2. Sloyan (as Kate) and Roddy Jessup (as Petruchio) in a scene from Taming of the Shew; 3. Also from Shrew, Aviva Bauman (Bianca)  is fought over by Lucentio (Fred Cross ) and Hortensio (Jessup), both suitors disguised as others.

by Timothy Rutt

The California Shakespeare Ensemble, where working actors present bare-bones Bard, begain its spring and summer residency at Farnsworth Park before a small but engaged audience May 12. Theatergoers (and actors!) braved a hot night to look at some of Shakespeare's greatest love scenes.  The ensemble will return to the park on June 16.

 

Bard II: Shakespeare by the Sea returns July 5 with "King John"

 

Falsely accused, Hero faints in the arms of Beatrice as Benedick looks on in "Much Ado about Nothing," Shakespeare by the Sea's 2011 performance in Farnsworth Park.

 

by Timothy Rutt

Shakespeare will really get a workout at Farnsworth Park this summer, as Shakespeare by the Sea presents "King John" on July 5.

The all-volunteer company of actors will be touring several Southern California cities during the summer.  It joins the California Shakespeare Ensemble, which will also be performing this summer at Farnsworth Park.

Founded in 1998, and funded entirely by donations and grants, the San Pedro-based Shakespeare by the Sea presents contemporary and classical works to underserved, culturally diverse audiences in order to ignite imagination, promote literacy and encourage artistic expression. 

"King John" is a larger-than-life drama about contention for raw power in medieval Europe. It will be performed Friday, July 5, starting at 8 PM.  Admission is free.

 

Ale House wine tasting to support their soccer team, May 18

by Timothy Rutt

The Altadena Ale & Wine House, 2329 N. Fair Oaks Ave., will have a fundraiser for their soccer team next Saturday, May 18, with a wine tasting, starting at 3 PM.

The alehouse will be donating six different styles of wines to taste from France, Spain, and Italy. Cheese and baguettes will be served, as well as pizza. There will be giveaways, too! $20 per person. 

Hor-hot-hot weekend in Altadena and Pasadena

by Timothy Rutt

Hope you're keeping cool, because it's been a busy weekend and it's not over yet!

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1.  The crowds gather for Fancy Food Truck Friday at the Webster's parking lot.

2.  The fifth grade "McKinley Rock Stars" from McKinley Elementary School, led by teacher Raimer Rojas, get ready for another set as part of Fancy Food Truck Friday entertainment.

3.  A percentage of proceeds from the food trucks and Webster's Community Pharmacy and Webster's Fine Wines & Spirits  went to Danny's Farm. Hagrid the miniature horse is the newest addition to Danny's Farm's traveling petting farm.

4.  Meanwhile, Elliot Gold holds court at Webster's Fine Stationers to talk about his photos and interviews with legendary rock performers in his book, Rememories.

*****

The big event Saturday was the second annual LitFest Pasadena at Central Park.  Alta-authors Jervey Tervalon and Michelle Huneven were in attendence, as well as these:

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1. Michele Zack, far right, moderates on the intersection of history and fiction with (from left) Jay Wachtel, Mary Correy, and Daniel Howe.

2. Local authors Kat Ward (Amy's Own), Petrea Burchard (Camelot and Vine), and Altadenan Des Zamorano (Human Cargo) promote their books under Burchard's Boz Books flag (Boz is Petrea's fabulous dog).

3. Besides the Hariett Doerr and Julia Child Stages, commemorating two well-known Pasadena writers, there was also the Octavia Butler Stage, remembering Altadena's pioneering black female science fiction author.

 

Wandering election sign finds a home

by Timothy Rutt

The forlorn and homeless Altadena Elections sign has finally found a place to land -- along the fence at the Crater at Calavaras and Lake.  We can say no more.

Farmer's Market celebrates birthday with new hours, picnic blankets, and music

by Timothy Rutt

The Altadena Farmers' Market will be one year old May 15, and is going big with extended summer hours, entertainment, and picnics (if you don't bring your own blanket, they'll loan you one!)

The market will be open every Wednesday from 4-8 PM, an hour later, now through Sept. 30.  

Market patrons are also encourage to picnic in (Loma Alta) park -- they will even lend you a blanket (available at the information booth).

Starting in June, "our new Great Lawn Stage will bring a broad schedule of entertainment from 5-7 PM throughout the summer.  Support local entertainers, enjoy food from our delicious vendors while enjoying the evening breeze."

The Altadena Farmers' Market is at Loma Alta Park, Lincoln Avenue and Palm Street, next to the Community Garden.

 

Sheriff give tips about living in bear country

from the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department

The Black Bears were introduced into the San Gabriel Mountains in 1933. They are all descendants of 11 bears deported from Yosemite National Park for being troublemakers.

It is always wise to give a bear as much room as you possibly can. If you see a bear in a residential community, leave the area and call 9-1-1.

Bears don't want to play, they just want humans to go away.

Gatherings of people watching the bears, smelling like humans and making noises scare the bears. Once scared, they just want to go home to the forest. You can help them by going home too. Bears are wild animals and unpredictable. Mama bears are especially protective of their cubs. Did you know Black Bears can sprint up to 35 miles per hour?

 

#BeBearAware #BearRun It's Not a Bear Problem, It's a People Problem.

Here are some brief videos from the California Department of Fish and Wildfire about the bear nears you:

 

1. The Bear Truth http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_tnFrCshN8I&feature=youtu.be&a

 

 

2. Smarter Than the Average Bear http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K5PXsZFpl2s&feature=youtu.be&a

 

 

3. Bearly Aware http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-RVCCvyGDI&list=UUMyd15DT5hztgPUbO1KyyGw&index=1

Poetry Corner: Happy Mother's Day!

"M Stands for Mother "

from gloriana casey

It's MOTHER'S Day! The time is now!
Although you're MOM each day.
Though often overlooked you are,
today's your special day.

So MOTHER, MOM, or MAMA,
MRS. or as  MS,
we celebrate your year long job,
and M your letter is!

MAGELLAN- like, you sail the year,
keep family in shipshape.
MAGICIAN too, with all your skills,
MAGNANIMOUS your state!

Like MAXWELL, so electrically,
MAGNETIC is your force.
You're MAGNA CARTA of the home
to guide the family course.