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by Timothy Rutt
The next meeting of the Altadena Town Council will be Tuesday, Aug. 20, at the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Drive, starting at 7 PM.
Major items of business seem to be choosing a new group of executive officers for the term and appointing Ron Adams to the vacant seat at CT 4603.02. That was pretty lively last month, who knows what'll happen this month?
Agenda after the jump.
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The usual burglaries of buildings and vehicles, with an assault and some petty thefts mixed in. Crime blotter provided by the Altadena Sheriff Station.
Sunday, August 4
Between 1:30 AM and 2:00 PM – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 300 block of W. Palm Street. Loss: navy blue Juicy Couture purse, personal identification, currency.
11:35 PM – An assault with a deadly weapon occurred in the 100 block of Laurel Drive. Suspects described as three black male adults.
Monday, August 5
Between 1:00 PM and 9:00 PM – A petty theft occurred in the 2100 block of Raymond Avenue. Loss: jewelry, currency.
Between 8:00 PM and 8:30 AM (Tuesday) – A grand theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred in the 1200 block of New York Avenue. Loss: silver MacBook Pro, credit cards, currency.
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Law enforcement is searching for: Martin Cisneras Rosales, 34; Lillyana Ramires and Martin Angel Rosales; and Amber Schenck with Martin Angel Rosales.
by Timothy Rutt
The California Highway Patrol sent out an Amber alert Thursday night, looking for two children abducted from Elko, Nevada on Aug. 14.
The missing children are Lillyana Ramires, 9, Hispanic female, and Martin Angel Rosales, 3, Hispanic male. The suspects are Martin Cisneras Rosales, 34. described as an Hispanic male, and Amber Schenck, 29, a white female. Schenck is the children's mother, and the elder Rosales is the boy's biological father.
The pair are possibly driving a blue Ford Mustang, unknown year, possibly with Nebraska license plate or temporary paper plates.
The Nevada Highway Patrol says that the children were in the custody of child protective services when they were taken by their parents. According to a statement from Nevada authorities, law enforcement believes the children are "in danger of serious bodily injury or death." They also say that the elder Rosales has a violent history with law enforcement.
They may be headed to or in the Sacramento area, the statement said.
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by Timothy Rutt
The Arroyo Food Co-op is looking at any and every means to bring in financing to open up its market -- yard sales, outright donations, loans, etc. The latest effort: crowdfunding.
In an online campaign thru Indiegogo, which will run for 30 days, the co-op hopes to raise at least $10,000 to help prepare its market building at 494 N. Wilson Avenue in Pasadena In its ongoing effort to raise funds to open a community-owned market, the Arroyo Food Co-op today launched an Indiegogo crowd-funding campaign.
The campaign features a three minute video that gives viewers a chance to look at the property as it describes their funding needs (new lighting and equipment, paint, and, of course, inventory).
"I had no idea when I joined the Arroyo Food Co-op that I would be making my Hollywood debut—although I'm guessing that no talent agents are going to come knocking,” quipped Co-op Board President Tricia Keane in a press release from the co-op. “In all seriousness, though, I hope that our efforts to expand our fundraising audience through our Indiegogo campaign will help give the Arroyo Food Co-op the limelight that it deserves."
Contribution levels for the campaign range from $1 to $1,000 and each level includes a “thank you” perk—everything from a Co-op bumper sticker to bags of a special AFC roasted coffee to a locavore dinner for two with a local chef.
To view the campaign’s video and make a contribution, visit http://igg.me/at/arroyofoodcoop/x/4294799
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Altadena photographer Jane Szabo is featured in two shows -- one real, one virtual -- this month.
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by Timothy Rutt
Lisa Robin Kelly, 43, best-known for her role in "That 70's Show," died in an Altadena rehab facility Wednesday night.
According to Breaking News Wire, Kelly had checked into the rehab facility Pax House in Altadena earlier this week.
A resident on the 200 block of Wapello Street told Altadenablog that sheriff's cars and the coroner's van were in the neighborhood a good part of the day. The sheriff watch commander referred all questions to the county coroner. A coroner's spokesman said that the incident was on "security hold" at request of the sheriff, and no further information would be forthcoming until a public information officer was available Friday. Cause of death has not been released.
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from the Arroy Food Co-op
The Arroyo Food Co-op is partnering with Transition Pasadena to host a Repair Café and open house Saturday night at the Co-op, 494 N. Wilson Avenue, Pasadena, from 6-9 PM.
The Repair Café movement was started as a way to bring people together to cut down on the number of items in the trash stream and fight back against the throwaway culture by actually fixing things. It's also a great way to share coffee and meet new friends. Volunteer tinkers and tailors—and a knife sharpener—will be on hand to mend items that are broken or need a little TLC.
The Co-op will also be open during the Repair Café for tours. Visitors will have the chance to meet with members of the Co-op’s board of directors and to get information about its capital campaign. The Co-op needs approximately $70,000 to refurbish and renovate the site and another $250,000 for operational expenses, primarily inventory. Loans from the co-op’s existing members will form the bulk of these funds, but the co-op is continuing to actively seek new members. Current members are also being encouraged to reach their full membership investment if they have not already.
The Arroyo Food Co-op will serve as an alternative to corporate-owned grocers in the community and will be entirely owned by its members. It will offer organic, sustainable, and locally sourced products along with humanely raised meats, fair trade items, and non-GMO produce. The Co-op is established as a California Consumer Cooperative Corporation.
Anyone can shop at the co-op, but those who make an investment and become member-owners receive additional benefits, including patronage refunds during profitable years. The full investment to join is $300; however the co-op offers a payment plan of $30 per year.
For more information about the Arroyo Food Co-op, including a membership application and loan information, visit www.arroyofoodcoop.com.
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by Timothy Rutt
Altadena town councilmembers Judy Mathews and Damon L. Hobdy, representing census tract 4603.01, plan to hold a get-together with their constituents in September -- but they're looking for input to plan the date.
According to an announcement from the pair, the event will be held at Loma Alta Park, time to be announced, on either Sept. 7 or Sept. 14. Altadena Sheriff Capt. John S. Benedict and Community Relations Lt. Eric Lasko will also attend, as will Neighborhood Watch block captains.
The meeting will discuss the community's general concerns and expectations of their town council representatives, and is open to the whole family. Refreshments will be served.
In the meantime, they are trying to find out what day works best: please contact Matthews at djmatthews@att.net or Hobdy at dlyyourrep@gmail.com to give your preference.
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from MonteCedro
As summer comes to a close, several San Gabriel Valley residents will be revisiting their “spring cleaning” list this fall to ready their homes for winter, reclaim new-found space, and prepare for their next move as they begin to transition from their current residence to their new home. To tackle the challenge of sorting and purging, MonteCedro, a new planned Episcopal Community Services (ECS) Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) in Altadena, is hosting a “right-sizing” event with Greg Gunderson on Thursday, August 29, 2013.
During the workshop, Gunderson, co-founder of the National Association of Senior Move Managers and owner of Gentle Transitions, will provide tips on how to reduce the stress of moving, downsizing and decluttering for surrounding area residents. He will also address floor planning, sorting, packing and resettling into a new home. Additionally, a donation box for the Altadena Public Library will be on-site to collect new and used books. Space is limited for this event. To register, please visit www.montecedro.com for information or call 877-282-1584.
The event will be Thursday, August 29, at 10:30 AM or 5:30 PM at MonteCedro Presentation Gallery, 153 E. Holly St., Pasadena.
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by Timothy Rutt
James A Faulker is the August artist currently on exhibit at the Altadena Main Library Community Room, 600 E. Mariposa St.
Faulkner’s work is inspired by his work in both print and television. Having beauty in his life is important, which is reflected in his work as well as his passion to create wherever and when it may take him by surprise.
In September, the library presents "Mythos," artwork by Sarah Stone.
Sarah works in organic media including water color and water miscible oil paints on rag fibers. Her themes revolve around transition, evolution, emergence and connection, integrating totemic imagery, biological elements, mythic cultural archetypes and runes, to bridge our illusory perception of separateness and detachment from each other and other life on our planet.
For more information call: 626-798-4033
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The Groove Oldies Show is a family-friendly band that brings a rockin’ nostalgic stage show to Farnsworth Park Amphitheatre on Saturday, Aug. 17, starting at 7 PM.
From Elvis to the Cars, from the Rolling Stones to KC & the Sunshine Band, The Groove offers variety of live music, performing a full spectrum of oldies hits from the 50’s through the 80’s, Standards, Country and a tribute show to Elvis that will fascinate audiences of all ages. Make it a great Rock n’ Roll Party with The Groove!
Each year, the Sheriff's Support Group Summer Concert Series has been made possible by the generous support of our sponsors. This year SSGA welcomes back a major sponsor, Warner Bros. Entertainment.
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Altadenablog welcomes a new member of our sponsor team, Altadena business Hughes Estate Sales!
Hughes Estate Sales provides professional residential liquidation services. We conduct sales of personal property and entire estates. We work with families who need professionals who are knowledgeable about values so they can get as much as possible from the estate. We're able do this because we have over 70 years of combined experience taking care of families and their belongings.
We manage the pricing and sale of fine art, antiques, collectibles, books, jewelry, vehicles, furnishings and household goods. We are family owned and operated and have been providing exceptional service to our clients since 1978. We serve the entire Southern California region.
Check out their website for more details!
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"Guess Who's Coming to Dinner!"
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by TImothy Rutt
Some bruin is where he ain't ought to be: several newsgroups have reported sighting a bear at Mendocino and Altadena Drive, last seen heading in the general direction of Eaton Canyon, about 9 PM tonight, so be careful out there!
UPDATE: Community correspondent Bob Meyer writes:
Just thought you would like our story from tonight. I grilled some fish and we were eating on the back patio when my daughter spotted a large bear about 20 feet from our table snooping around. It was dark and I only caught a glimpse of it while scooting into the house. I called the sheriff and they came to check it out. She was gone but they said they had a report earlier of the same bear (presumably) on the 2000 block of Braeburn, just south of us. I guess she has two cubs though we didn't see that.
Our dog was in the backyard but managed to stay away from the bear and everyone is alright.
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by Timothy Rutt
The FIfth Anniversary Production (Year 1 was at the Greystone Mansion) will run from October 4-November 2, 2013 and feature world premiere adaptations of H.P Lovecraft’s "The Lurking Fear" and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s "The New Catacomb" as well as a revival of Washington Irving’s "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow."
“For our 5th anniversary production, we are committed to producing THE BEST WICKED LIT EVER. That means a more immersive experience with more scares, more intriguing stories, and mind-blowing special effects and surprises,” said Co-Artistic Directotor Jeff G. Rack, who will direct Sleepy Hollow, co-adapt Lurking Fear, and also oversee the production design and special effects for the event.
Said Co-Artistic Director Paul Millet, who will direct The Lurking Fear as well as the Wicked Lit Experience, “We don’t want to give away too much, but this year – the experience will truly begin the moment that the audience emerges from their cars.”
Continue reading "Something Wicked LIt this way comes: troupe announces Halloween shows" »
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A group of county officials and the Forest Service is working to stop the dangerous hikes to the second waterfall, through signs, trail work, and altering maps
by Laura B. Monteros
These are the facts: The US Forest Service maintains a safe, easy trail from the Eaton Canyon Nature Center to the bottom of the first waterfall. The Forest Service has not built and does not recognize any other trails to the falls or up the side of the falls.
These are also the facts: On their own, hikers have created a path to the top of the first and second waterfalls that entices adventurous people to slither along the rock face, often ill-equipped, resulting in numerous deaths and scores of rescues.
There is no actual designated official trail to the second waterfall. The one that people call Razorback Trail or Acrophobia Ridge, so-called because it is dangerously high and narrow, was created by hikers themselves. Deputy Mike Leum, the Reserve Chief who oversees the eight Los Angeles County Sheriff’s search and rescue teams, puts it this way. “There are 'use' trails -- in other words, trails that people have kind of created. There are no recognized or official trails, you won’t see them on any map, but we all know they are there.”
Razorback Trail leads to Eaton Canyon’s second waterfall, and that trail has been the locus of injuries, rescues, and fatalities for years. Even though the unofficial trail has a bloody legacy, social media -- Yelp, YouTube, etc. -- depict the hike an easy-to-accomplish lark for the young and strong.
Officials form working group
Therein lies the problem, and the impetus for Fifth District Supervisor Michael Antonovich to call a series of meetings to address the perception gap. Sussy Nemer, field deputy for Antonovich, told us that three meetings have been held over the past two years, with all the official agencies invited, to discuss the rescues and get input from the stakeholders on how to increase public awareness of the dangers.
Representatives from the Fifth District, Los Angeles County Parks and Recreation, LA County Counsel, Altadena Sheriff’s Station, LA County Search and Rescue, LA County Fire Department, US Forest Service, City of Pasadena, and the State Assembly attended the last meeting, held July 8. A date has not been selected for the next meeting.
Trail use and advocacy groups were not invited to participate in the meetings. “Trail users are not the problem,” Nemer stated. “Trail users and advocates are not the people who are hiking up to the second waterfall.”
Continue reading "County group seeks to discourage hikers on dangerous trail" »
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by Laura B. Monteros
He reminded us that it’s not just the climb to the top of the second waterfall that is treacherous. “People have gotten killed just in the effort of climbing Acrophobia Ridge to the top of the first falls,” Leum said, noting that the 17-year-old who died in March fell trying to reach it. His statistics indicate that more than 40 percent of the injuries take place at the first waterfall.
He sent the statistics his department has compiled from January 1, 2011 through June 30, 2013.
Four people have died since 2011 hiking in the area of the second waterfall. The number of injuries in Eaton Canyon are as follows:
Continue reading "Four dead since 2011 in hike to second waterfall" »
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by Timothy Rutt
Poor Upstream ... every year, they come to the Farnsworth Park concert series, and look out over a sea of empty seats.
Because everybody's dancing elbow-to-elbow in front of the stage.
For the fourth year in a row, leader Haile Blackman and his troupe brought some gotta-dance Caribbean vibe to General Farnsworth's park. The dancing started early and just got bigger as the night went on with Upstream's mix of soca, reggae, calypso, and pop tunes with island flair.
Odds are pretty good they'll come back next year. And so will we!
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by Timothy Rutt
... or at least it was Saturday. Here, Tom and Catherine Peters (with Jet) take a break at the annual garage sale for their organization, Trained Dogs for Adoption. TDOA takes hard-case dogs and gets them ready for home life (Jet is one of their clients). The annual garage sale helps support the organization's care for dogs.
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by Timothy Rutt
We've gotten several reports from neighbors and the chatter in the newsgroups says that coyotes are on the prowl and are particularly aggressive -- several pets have been lost. One of our readers lost her cat to a pack of five coyotes who happened to be in the front yard when the cat decided to go out.
So keep your pets inside and safe as much as you can, particularly at night.
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by Timothy Rutt
The Pasadena Unified School District starts up again early, Aug. 14 this year, but the activities start earlier than that:
On Monday, Aug. 12, at 8:15 AM, there will be an "All Staff Welcome Back Breakfast" at Pasadena High School Auditorium, 2925 East Sierra Madre Blvd. The event includes special presentations honoring the principal, classified employee, and teacher of the year, and the presentation of a community service award. Superintendent Jon Gundry will also be addressing staff about his vision for the upcoming year. The event is opportunity for staff to reconnect with colleagues, learn about district priorities and energetically launch the new academic year.
On Tuesday, Aug. 13, at 2:30 PM, there will be a ribbon cutting ceremony and ice cream social at Grover Cleveland Elementary School, 524 Palisade Street, Pasadena. Cleveland Elementary School will host a ribbon cutting for new additions to Cleveland Elementary School that were funded by Measure TT, a school bond passed by area voters in 2008. The project consists of a 10,518 square foot addition to the existing campus built in 1934 and alterations to the existing administration areas. Within the addition there are three new classrooms, one computer lab, new visible administration area with a lobby, nurse’s station, nurses office, principal’s office, four office spaces for various school programs, new family center, new staff restrooms, teacher’s lounge, and new student restrooms that have direct access from the play areas and fields for easier supervision. The exterior of the campus consists of accessible parking with new staff parking and a new driveway entry. The front of the campus consists of new landscape and accessible pathways to the main entry. A tour of the facility and an ice cream social with students and parents will follow the ceremony.
And on Wednesday, Aug. 14, PUSD students return to school (check with your school for start and end times). Superintendent Jon Gundry will greet students and families at the new Washington STEAM Magnet Academy (formerly known as Washington Middle School). The Washington STEAM Magnet Academy is unlike any other in the state, utilizing an interdisciplinary approach to learning with hands-on science, technology, engineering and math plus art and design emphasizing innovation. The school is supported by the STEAM Community Alliance, a group of leading Pasadena area institutions such as Caltech, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Art Center College of Design, Kidspace Museum, the city of Pasadena and many more. To learn more about the new school visit steam-academy.pasadenausd.org. Washington STEAM Magnet Academy, 1505 N. Marengo Avenue, Pasadena.
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Edison is using a bit of derring-do during construction of its new lines just north of Altadena this summer.
The Tehachapi Renewable Transmission Project will deliver electricity from windfarms to the California electrical grid. THe TRTP stretches from Kern County to San Bernardino County, and currently, ahem, Edison is installing a segment in the Angeles National Forest just north of Altadena.
And if that wasn't exciting enough ... residents close to the worksite recently received a head's up notice from Edison to get ready for explosions. Edison will be using a process called implosive sleeve wire splicing to attach cable to the towers. The process involves wrapping a small implosive charge around a metallic sleeve, creating a controlled implosive compression to connect two wires. The detonations will take place near Millard Canyon during the week of Aug. 12-16 and Aug. 22-26, according to Edison. A total of nine detonations will take place during normal construction hours (Mon.-Sat. 7 AM-7 PM.
Here's a video from Canada we found where they explain implosive sleeve wire splicing, after the jump.
Continue reading "Edison upgrading its lines with flying men and implosive sleeves" »
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"Really Unique Dog, Yes-siree!"
from gloriana casey
Of course in acronym breakdown,
first letters spell RUDY!
I am that dog, I need a home,
I'm bachelor, yes-siree!
I've caught a few of lucky breaks,
I need just one break here,
21st century dog, I am,
technology makes clear!
Pretend I am a bachelor then,
a-looking for a date!
So read on for my profile then,
I need a life long mate!
Athletic with those muscles fine,
with eyes so warm and brown.
An outdoor guy and homebody
yet love to do the town.
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Residential and vehicle burglaries this week. Crime blotter provided by the Altadena Sheriff's Station.
Sunday, July 28
4:30 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 1700 block of E. Altadena Drive. Suspect described as a male, White, 30-40 yrs, 5' 8" -6' 1", 180-245. Loss: jewelry.
Monday, July 29
Between 6:50 PM and 7:30 AM (Tuesday) – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 1800 block of Layton Street. Loss: none.
Tuesday, July 30
Between 12:00 PM and 12:00 PM (8/5/2013) – A residential burglary occurred in the 2200 block of Norwic Place. Loss: various brand men’s watches.
6:00 PM – A grand theft from a vehicle occurred in the area of Mt. Curve Avenue & Monterosa Avenue. Suspects described as three male Hispanics in a burgundy Chrysler 300. Loss: black Mikasa dirt compactor.
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As summer takes its last lap, it'll be a busy weekend in Altadena and environs. Keep coming back as we unearth more!
But first, what are members of the Altadenablog sponsor team up to?
Fancy Food Truck Friday: The monthly event, sponsored by Webster's Community Pharmacy, Webster's Liquors, and Danny's Farm, welcomes five new trucks today: Tainamite Truck, The Lobos Truck, Crepe’N Around, The Sushi Pirate and Wings On Wheels. Returning favorites A-Rockin Ice will bring up the dessert menu. In the meantime, the pharmacy and liquor store will offer 20% off on many items during the event. Since it's back to school time, it's a good time to stock up on Hello Kitty backpacks, pencil holders, and superhero lunchboxes. Fancy Food Truck Friday runs from 5-9 PM at the Webster's parking lot 2450 N. Lake Avenue. There's ample street parking and some limited parking in the Webster's lot.
Co-op yard sale: The Arroyo Food Co-op, 494 N. Wilson Avenue in Pasadena, will be holding a garage sale on Saturday, Aug. 10, from 8-11 AM. Don't forget that next Saturday, Aug. 17, they'll have an open house and Repair Café.
Upstream at the Farnsworth Park Summer Concert Series: Caribbean pop in a party atmosphere by the returning favorites Upstream. If you only go to one concert, go to this one! The Sheriff Support Group of Altadena's summer concert series is sponsored by Warner Bros. Entertainment, Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich, Rotary Club of Altadena, MonteCedro, Athens Service, Toyota of Pasadena, El Patron Mexican Restaurant, All American Audio Visual, www.altadenablog.com, The Printworks and, Georgia Rutherford in memory of Don Rutherford. The Altadena Sheriff’s Station and Farnsworth Park are both hosting once again this year. Beer & wine sales by the Rotary Club of Altadena. Food service by El Patron Mexican Food Restaurant, and green room refreshments for the performers by Webster's Fine Stationers. Concert starts at 7 PM, and is free, at the Farnsworth Park Amphitheater, Lake & Mt. Curve Avenues.
Bad Role Models: Polly Frost presents her one-woman show, “Bad Role Models and What I Learned From Them,” 5 PM Sunday at Webster’s Fine Stationers, 2450 N. Lake Avenue. Tickets are $15, and you can make reservations at by calling Webster's at (626) 797-1135. “Bad Role Models” will be performed on Sundays through August.
What else is going on?
Friday, Aug. 9
Parks after Dark: program for all ages and interests at Loma Alta Park, 6-9 PM every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday thru Aug. 24.
Saturday, Aug. 10
Yard sale for dogs: Trained Dogs for Adoption is having its annual yard sale fundraiser on Saturday from 7 AM-noon at 1836 Roosevelt Avenue. All proceeds from the yard sale will be used to support dogs in the Altadena rescue’s care. Besides the furniture, clothing, and household items, there will be a craft and bake sale as well.
Parks After Dark continues at Loma Alta Park, 6-9 PM.
Western fundraiser at the Coffee Gallery Backstage: Theatre Americana will have a rip-roaring, boot-kicking country western show Saturday at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N. Lake Avenue from 7-9 PM to help raise money for Hand in Paw, a non-profit animal rescue dedicated to the rehabilitation and adoption of homeless dogs. Tickets are $15, and reservations are at: 626-798-6236.
Bulgarini Gelato Summer Movie Night: Le Retour de Martin Guerre (The Return of Martin Guerre). Set in France during the Hundred Years' War. Imagining herself a widow, Nathalie Baye is astonished when her husband Gerard Depardieu returns after nine years. He looks like her husband and sounds like her husband, and certainly has a working knowledge of the couple's prior relationship. Still, neither Baye nor her neighbors can shake the notion that Depardieu is an imposter. Matters come to a head when the local magistrate sentences Depardieu to hang for his own murder. Movies are always free. Dinner will be offered - by reservation only - for $13.50, which will include a homemade pasta dish, salad, and a drink. Reservations may be made by Friday (that’’s today!) by email a tcatering@bulgarinigelato.com or by calling (626) 376-7662. Dinner is at 7:30, movie starts at dark. Bulgarini Gelato is at 749 E. Altadena Drive.
Folly Bowl: The Unpopable Quartet will perform at the Folly Bowl, 1601 E. Loma Alra Drive. The quartet is distinguished by Addi Samkeh, who plays a bass made from a balloon (yes, it's true).Donation $10, bring your own snacks and please pack them out when done (bears). Outdoor amphitheater, so dress appropriately. Doors open at 7:30 PM, concert starts at 8 PM.
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by Timothy Rutt
Rudy had been wandering in the Chaney Trail neighborhood for at least a week in May before he was taken in. A big dog, he was emaciated at 65 pounds, worm-ridden, and unneutered, but had lots of personality and loved people. With a torn ear and a few scars, specuation was that he was a “bait dog,” used to train illegal fighting dogs. (Our original story is here).
The red pitbull/Rhodesian ridgeback mix, despite his obvious rough handling, was people-friendly and loving. Somewhere he acquired the name Rudy, and made some friends in the neighborhood -- but since Chaney Trail denizens tend to be dog lovers and have all the dogs they can handle, no one had room to take him in. He went to the Baldwin Park animal shelter, but his fans were secure that such a charmer would be adopted soon.
But that was not to be. Rudy was estimated to be seven years old, but he acquired kennel cough and an upper respiratory tract infecton in the shelter. No owner stepped forward, and nobody wanted to adopt an emaciated, coughing, seven year old dog. His time ran out, and he was scheduled to be put down.
But Rudy ended up being a lucky dog. Concerned neighborrs managed to bargain a few more days of life for the dog while they looked for an alternative. It took two Altadena Bonnies to get him out of the shelter: Bonnie Barron, an Altadena resident who worked with Bonny Schumaker with the rescue organization On Wings of Care to get the dog out.
Continue reading "Who will give Rudy's story his happy ending?" »
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by Timothy Rutt
Yard sale for Teddy: Trained Dogs for Adoption is having its annual yard sale fundraiser on Saturday from 7 AM-noon at 1836 Roosevelt Avenue. This time, it’s all about Teddy.
Authorities took Teddy away from his owner over eight months ago when he was a ten-week-old puppy, the victim of animal cruelty. He has been living in the shelter ever since as his owner went on trial for his actions. A judge recently released Teddy, and Trained Dogs for Adoption was contacted by the shelter for help.
Over his many months at the shelter, Teddy became a shelter favorite. Despite his horrible start to life, Teddy harbors no grudges. In fact, we are completely amazed by his profound resilience. Teddy is exceptionally sweet and social despite never having learned "how to be a dog". He is a testament to the nobility of dogs.
All proceeds from the yard sale will be used to support Teddy and other dogs in the Altadena rescue’s care. Besides the furniture, clothing, and household items, there will be a craft and bake sale as well.
For more information on Teddy and other dogs in need, go to: www.traineddogsforadoption.org
Country western at the Coffee Gallery: Theatre Americana will have a rip-roaring, boot-kicking country western show Saturday at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N. Lake Avenue from 7-9 PM. It’s to help raise money for Hand in Paw, a non-profit animal rescue dedicated to the rehabilitation and adoption of homeless dogs. Tickets are $15, and reservations are at: 626-798-6236.
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by Timothy Rutt
They’re also saying that the flap over the elections at the July 16 council meeting was orchestrated to malign her designated successor in a public forum, thus clearing the way for Broadous to continue as chair.
Executive committee delayed
“I won’t go so far as to say Bernardean doesn’t care about Altadena, but ultimately what she cares about is herself and her ego and not being elected as continuing chair ... has a drastic effect on her ego,” said former councilman Ken Roberts. Roberts was one of the outgoing councilmembers who passed over Broadous in favor of nominating Diane Marcussen, CT 4613, as chair for the 2013-2014 term
The month following a town council election, the first action after certain ceremonial and housekeeping items is to seat the new councilmembers, followed by choosing the officers for the year, called the executive committee. Before the meeting, a committee of outgoing councilmembers talks to existing and incoming councilmembers to sound out candidates for chair, vice-chair, treasurer, corresponding secretary, and recording secretary, as well as see who the other councilmembers would support in those roles. The officers’ slate is then presented to the council as a whole, which usually rubber-stamps the selection. It is an internal process, conducted publicly. This year the selection committee was Roberts, Doug Colliflower, and Greg Middleton.
Unusual events
According to Roberts, several unusual things happened in the July 16 meeting:
“There has never been, in my years on the council ... public comment about the executive team,” Roberts said. “That is really internal to the council, but brought up in a public forum because it’s a public meeting.”
That unusual agenda, Roberts said, was drawn up by the chair: Broadous.
Continue reading "Town council members say chair uncommunicative, lacks leadership" »
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by Timothy Rutt
Altadena's National Night Out at Loma Alta Park Tuesday, Aug. 6, was part neighborhood picnic and part public safety fair. The picnic part consisted of potluck grub with the deputies cooking up hot dogs and hamburgers on their big portable grill. The sheriff's station and related programs (VIDA, CERT, amateur radio) all had booths with brochures and people in uniform. All in all, it was a low-key party with a bounce house for the kids and a dunk tank to work out your issues of authority. More pictures after the jump.
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Altadena's favorite island party band comes back to the Sheriff Support Group Summer Concert Series on Saturday, Aug. 10 as Upstream returns to Farnsworth Park Amphitheater.
Welcome to the Upstream experience, please leave your inhibitions and other real world concerns at the door, we’re here to party! It’s been quite a wild ride for the members of Upstream, formed in the republic of Trinidad and Tobago in the late 1980’s and reformed in southern California in the early 1990’s, with six CD’s under their belt, and a very impressive live performance reference, Upstream has certainly earned the right to be called a seasoned musical outfit.
Band leader Haile Blackman (Lead Vocals, Guitar, Drums, Record Producer & MPC Guardian), will, without hesitation, readily explain that Upstream’s ultimate purpose is to take their audience on a journey, a temporary escape from themselves and a permanent escape from boredom. The band boasts a very seasoned and celebrated line up, Johnny Blackman (Drums & Background Vocals), Derek Brewster (Steel Pans, Bass & Background Vocals), Andre Morris (Keyboards & Background Vocals) David King (Bass & Background Vocals), and alternates include Marlon Alegria (Keys, Background Vocals) and Martin Tillett (Keys, Background Vocals).
Continue reading "Summer Concert series swims Upstream Saturday" »
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by Timothy Rutt
Probably one of the most influential Altadenans ever was Jon Postel, who was born on this day in 1943 (he died in 1998). Postel was one of the "fathers of the Internet," inventing and administering its address system for 30 years, and coming up with the current administration system where addresses are managed by several non-governmental organizations.
He was born in Altadena and raised and educated in Southern California.
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by Timothy Rutt
The Altadena Sheriff Station will be sponsoring the local National Night Out at Loma Alta Park tonight, from 5-8 PM.
The deputies will provide drinks, hot dogs, hamburgers, and other fun food, but please bring a potluck dish to share. There will be a bounce house, activities for the children, and information booths from the sheriffs, the Sheriff Support Group, CERT, and other community groups. You might even have a chance to dunk the captain!
All are invited to this family-friendly chance to come together as a community.
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The Arroyo Food Co-op, 494 N. Wilson Avenue in Pasadena, will be holding a garage sale on Saturday, Aug. 10, from 8-11 AM.
But before that, they need stuff to sell. According to a message from the co-op:
If you have gently used items you no longer need or want, please donate them to the Co-op and we’ll be happy to take them off your hands. Co-op members will be at the store to receive your items at the following times:
Wednesday, August 7: 5:00-7:00 pm
Thursday, August 8: 6:00-8:00 pm
Friday, August 9: 5:00-7:00 pm
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by Timothy Rutt
Legendary 60's-70's boomer artists Dave Crosby and Graham Nash will perform on Sunday, Aug. 25, in a benefit concert for Altadena's FIve Acres at the Pasadena Playhouse.
General admission tickets are available for $150, with premium tickets in the $750-$500 range (VIP tickets at $1,000 each are sold out). There are also 100 tickets available to benefit the Pasadena Playhouse.
For tickets to benefit FIve Acres, contact Lizette Lujan for premium tickets (LLujan@5acres.org) or the Pasadena Playhouse for general admission tickets, 626-773-3746.
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by Timothy Rutt
The California Highway Patrol as activated an Amber Alert for San Diego and Imperial counties in the abduction of two children.
According ot the highway patrol, the abduction occurred on Aug. 3 at 5 PM in the city of Boulevard in San Diego County. The suspect is James Lee DeMaggio, 40, possibly driving a 2013 blue Nissan Versa four door, CA license plate 6WCU986.
The abducted children are Hannah Anderson, 16, and Ethan Anderson, 8.
Hannah Anderson is white, female, 5 foot 7 ins. tall, 115 lbs., blonde with pierced ears, a nose stud, and belly button ring. Ethan Anderson is described as white, male, 4 ft. 11 ins. tall, 65 lbs. with sandy blonde hair.
DiMaggio is described as white, 5 ft. 9 ins. tall, with brown hair and brown eyes, 150 lbs.
If seen, please call local law enforcement of the San Diego Sheriff's Department at 858-565-5200.
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by Timothy Rutt
Five new gourmet food trucks will be on deck at Fancy Food Truck Friday Aug. 9.
Tainamite Truck, The Lobos Truck, Crepe’N Around, The Sushi Pirate and Wings On Wheels will make their first appearance at the event, co-sponsored by Webster's Community Pharmacy, Webster's Liquors, and Danny's Farm. “We want to give our Altadena friends some exciting new tastes and flavors this month” said Meredith Miller, , event coordinator and co-owner of Webster's Community Pharmacy.
Returning favorites A-Rockin Ice will also return to bring up the dessert menu.
The Danny's Farm petting zoo is off this month, but they will be appearing at the Orange County Fair.
In the meantime, the pharmacy and liquor store will offer 20% off on many items during the event. Since it's back to school time, it's a good time to stock up on Hello Kitty backpacks, pencil holders, and superhero lunchboxes.
Fancy Food Truck Friday runs from 5-9 PM at the Webster's parking lot 2450 N. Lake Avenue. There's ample street parking and some limited parking in the Webster's lot.
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The Pasadena Police Department has sent out a public notice that there is police activity "in the area of W. Washington Blvd between Sunset Ave and Glen Ave after receiving a report of a man with a handgun. " The public is asked to avoid the area for now.
UPDATE: Incident is over, all clear Monday afternoon.
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by Timothy Rutt
They started off as a pack at 5 AM Saturday in Wrightwood, and came staggering into Altadena starting Sunday morning.
The runners of the 26th annual Angeles Crest 100 Mile Endurance Run challenged themselves with 100 miles of forest trails and some pretty severe hill climbing, all to make the finish line at Loma Alta Park. Runners this year numbered 172.
First one over the finish was Dominic Grossman, who came in at 12:06 AM Sunday. First female, and fourth overall, was Angela Shartel, who came in at 2:21 AM.
The two Altadena entrants also fared well. Diane Treister came in at 19th place at 7:25 this morning. Marisol Martinez came in 26th at 8:20.
Martinez said that she was fighting stomach problems, which have been severe enough that she had to drop out of the race a couple of years ago, but kept through it this year, her third race.
Treister said that her plans for the rest of the day were "eating and sleeping."
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by Timothy Rutt
Altadena's own Brian Hughes delivered his liquid guitar lines to the Farnsworth Park Amphitheatre crowd Saturday night. The free concert from the Sheriff's Support Group of Altadena included food by El Patron and solidarity with the neighborhood: members of the Palm Street Area Residents' Association attended in their trademark red to see the neighbor Hughes, who returned the favor in his bright red shoes. Hughes played from his catalogue of albums and armory of guitars to the delight and amazement of the audience.
Next week: The return of Upstream. You do not want to miss it.
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The Unpopable Quartet will perform next Saturday, Aug. 10, at the Folly Bowl, 1601 E. Loma Alra Drive. The quartet is distinguished by Addi Samkeh, who plays a bass made from a balloon (yes, it's true).
Dontation $10, bring your own snacks and please pack them out when done (bears). Outdoor amphitheater, so dress appropriately.
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There will be a child's car seat safety workshop and inspection as Friday, Aug. 16, as part of the "Parks After Dar" program at Loma Alta Park.
The organization New Economics for Women (NEW) is partnering with Parks After Dark (PAD) at Loma Alta Park during the summer to provide a series of child passenger safety workshops as well as offering inspection and installation of car seats.
A safety seat workshop will be held from 6-7 PM. Qualifying registered particpants can receive a free car seat (details on the flyer).
For more information or to register, call 818-887-3877.
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by TImothy Rutt
A structure fire was called in at about 12:20 PM Saturday at 3515 McNally Ave. Community correspondents Gary Altadena and 10-year-old Savannah McCarthy were on the scene, and report that no one was hurt, but a female relative of the home's occupants was there alone and had an asthma attack. The relative was transported to the hospital by paramedics.
A neighboring house also caught on fire with no one home but the dog, who was released into the neighborhood "snapping at any one who tried to catch him." A message on one of the local newsgroups said that an animal control officer was dispatched, but initially went to the home of the people who reported the fire, not to the fire scene itself. Status of the dog is currently unknown.
We are continuing to attempt to contact the county fire department for more information, which we will pass on when we get it.
We also have video of firefighters and neighbors attempting to corral the dog, after the jump.
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The Pasadena Police Department is searching for a missing elderly woman who was last seen on August 2, 2013 in Pasadena. Missing is Gretchen Leonard, white female, 76 years of age, approx 5'-3", 130 lbs., wearing brown pants. She has short white hair and blue eyes. She was last seen driving her vehicle, a dark blue 2007 Lexus IS250 CA 6LLD553, in the area of east Pasadena.
The Pasadena Police Department is seeking the Public's help in locating Ms. Leonard. If you happen to locate her vehicle or see anyone matching her description, please call (626) 744-4241 or (626) 744-4620.
UPDATE: This from the Pasadena Police Department:
On August 3, 2013 at 11:21 A.M., Pasadena Police Officers responded to a report of a single car collision in the 300 Block of Manford Way, Pasadena. A vehicle was found over the embankment and that vehicle was the same vehicle in which Mrs. Leonard was reported missing. There was a sole female occupant in the vehicle who was found to be deceased and pronounced at the scene. Pasadena Traffic Collision Investigators and the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office responded to conduct the investigation. It was determined that the deceased occupant was in fact Mrs. Leonard.
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Vehicles hardest hit this week. 24 Hour Fitness count is 3. Crime blotter provided by the Altadena Sheriff's Station.
Sunday, July
21
8:45 AM – A vehicle was reported stolen from the
1900 block of N. Sinaloa Avenue. ***Vehicle was recovered at 9:15
AM approximately, two blocks north of the reported stolen
location***
Tuesday, July 23
Between 7:00 PM and 9:00 AM (Thursday) – A petty theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred in the 500 block of Mountain View Street. Loss: blue/gray briefcase.
Wednesday, July 24
Between 8:35 AM and 9:35 AM – Two vehicle burglaries occurred at 24Hr. Fitness, 2180 N. Lincoln Avenue. Suspect(s) entered the vehicles by shattering the driver’s side window. Loss: none.
12:30 PM – A petty theft from a vehicle occurred in the parking lot of King Ranch Market, 2260 N. Lincoln Avenue. Loss: lawn maintenance equipment.
Continue reading "Crime blotter: not a good week to be a vehicle" »
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from Five Acres
Whole Foods Market presented a check for $9,318.59 to Five Acres Wednesday, July 31, after raising the funds during a Community Support Day in June at the grocer’s Arroyo Parkway and Foothill Boulevard stores in Pasadena.
Five Acres Chief Executive Officer Chanel Boutakidis (seventh from left in the photo) thanked Whole Foods’ Annette Bailey (fourth from right) for raising public awareness and much-needed financial support for at-risk children.
“Whole Foods has made an invaluable contribution that will allow us to continue strengthening local families and create loving, stable environments for children,” Boutakidis said.
Five Acres provides residential care and education, mental health services, foster care and adoptions, and domestic violence prevention to more than 6,500 children and families across Southern California annually.
“Every child deserves to come home to a nurturing, healthy environment,” Bailey said. “We couldn’t be happier to contribute to Five Acres to help make that vision come to life.”
Seen in the photo from left are Five Acres’ Chief Advancement Officer Jay Sanders, Board members Michele Hall and John Reith, Whole Foods’ Heather Anderson, Board member Leslie Lyons and Chief Financial Officer Dan Braun, Boutakidis, Chief Operating Officer Karen Evans, Bailey, Chief Administrative Officer Carmen Benitez, Board member Brad Reaume, and Associate Director of Volunteers and Community Engagement Susan Lowe.
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by TImothy Rutt
The victim was an older man from the South Bay with pre-existing health conditions who was hospitalized at time of death, according to a press release. While this is the first fatality, to date 13 infections have been documented, according to county healh officials. Six were documented from blood donors who did not have symptoms.
In 2012, 174 cases were reported in Los Angeles County.
To date, county health officials have detected WNV in 118 mosquito pools and 141 dead birds, mostly occurring in the South Bay.
To decrease risk of infection, county officials are urging residents to avoid mosquito-infested areas at dawn and dusk; use repellants containing DEET, picardin, or oil of eucalyptus; check window screens for holes; do not allow water to stagnate in old tires, flowerpots, swimming pools, birdbaths, etc.; empty and wash birdbaths and wading pools weekly.
Dead birds may be reported by calling (877) 968-2473 or logging onto http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/vet/disintro.htm. . Stagnant swimming pools or “green pools” should be reported to the Public Health Environmental Health Bureau at (626) 430-5200,
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