altadenablog

Monday Firewatch PM: Mt. Wilson still in danger, only Chaney Trail area evac'ed

OK, our post for today was so long that it was freaking out Typepad, so we decided to break it here.  So read the previous post and its comments to get today's full picture.

For some reason, our dates were all screwed up.  At the same time I was trying to fix that, we were being interviewed by the Pasadena Weekly and the wife called. Lucky we studied juggling!

__________

  UPDATE 10:30 PM  

Feel like we've been beaten three times over, so we're trying to put this to bed.  Got a report of lights and activity on Altadena Dr. east of Lake around 10 PM -- sheriffs know nothing, so it may be fire dept. -- unfortunately, we can't get out to check it personally (kids are in bed, finally!)

Just wanted to share this screen capture from our statistics page today:

This is as of 10:30 tonight (Typepad's day starts at 0:00 GMT, which we think is 5 PM Altadena time).

The peak is Monday's (today's) stats, which is 21,426 page views. Even five hours worth of tomorrow's stats is about ten times what our old daily average was.  We are overwhelmed, and we thank you, the community of those who live in and love Altadena, for your support over these past few days.

  UPDATE 10 PM  

Battle of Mt. Wilson: from their news site:

Monday, 31 Aug 09, 5:30 pm PDT - As I mentioned earlier, we have lost the new backup power to the mountain. In anticipation of a possible loss of all power to the Observatory, where the MWO webserver is located, this update site will be relocated to http://joy.chara.gsu.edu/CHARA/fire.php. I will continue posting material on the current server, but if and when it goes dark, please make a note now to try the other URL if you are interested in keeping in touch with this situation from our perspective. In this event, the Towercam will also go dark. In the meantime, please keep coming to this site.

We just checked the URL -- the present URL works, the new one says "page not found," but we can assume it will be activated if Mt. Wilson's server goes kerflooey.

Today's Whisky Tango Foxtrot moment: Somebody called (that's how it usually starts).  They wanted an ad.  Not interested in a display ad.  They wanted a classified ad.  For a rental property.  Is there anything resembling a classified ad here, or has our mind finally gone?

  UPDATE 9:45 PM  

Back again: Thanks for your indulgence.  Had a wonderful visit with Dr. Mrs. Altadenablog, who is healing quite nicely.  We saw the middle of the Sound of Music, up until the Nazi flag shows up.  Our family does Sound of Music like some people do Rocky Horror.

Drove the length of Loma Alta on the way home, and it's grand to see -- no roadblocks, no blinking lights, just some firemen from Ventura County shaking hands, packing up, and driving away. Thank you, guys!!!

Also just called the sheriff's station: as of 9:45 this evening, the only area under mandatory evacuation is Chaney Trail, and there is a deputy there keeping people out.

And, checking the comments, you people rock in terms of getting information pinned down accurately and getting it out there!  Thank you!  This blog now practically runs itself!

  UPDATE 3:45 PM  

Life goes on: scanner says they're looking for an armed robber about Glen Rose and Altadena Dr.

The official word:  Town council Chair Gino Sund writes:

Just got off the phone from the Supervisor.  The houses North of Loma Alta from Fair Oaks East to Lake Ave are still under a mandatory evacuation.  The mandatory evacuation for houses north of Loma Alta from Fair Oaks West to the Arroyo has been lifted.

School's still out:  Parents of Odyssey Charter School students received an email that the start of school has been delayed to Sept. 8.

The Battle for Mt. Wilson: Retreat: The latest from the Mt. Wilson fire blog -- not good:

Monday, 31 Aug 09, 2:46 pm PDT - CHARA Array operator PJ Goldfinger reported that at about 2:00 pm she monitored an LA County Sheriffs Department transmission advising a pullout from Red Box, the major staging area near the mountain. I just spoke with Sherry Roman, Public Affairs Officer of the Angeles National Forest. She could give no updates as to the status of the fire in the Mount Wilson vicinity except that the USFS still considers that passage of fire across Mount Wilson is imminent and will be fought aerially rather than with ground personnel. Once the fire is through the area, they can assess the damage by air after the event before they can send in ground personnel. She also confirmed what PJ's monitoring implied, that firefighters have been removed from Red Box.

OK, we are on our way to making our daily hospital visit at 4 PM.  Comments are open, and we will be back in the saddle sometime late this evening.  Godspeed, and be safe!

  UPDATE 2:45 PM  

Another source for Mt. Wilson: From a reader:

Just wanted to say that, when the Mt Wilson camera goes down, you can tell if things are still OK by clicking on

http://www.wunderground.com/US/CA/Mount_Wilson.html

And seeing if the weather stations are updating.  I read that one of the 2 powerlines is down.

Also some reports of flare-ups in the Meadows, so the sheriffs are not letting people in again.

Monday Firewatch AM: Mt. Wilson in danger, evacuation picture changing

You are here.

NOTE: THIS POST WAS CLOSED AS OF ABOUT 2:30 PM TODAY. 

EVERYTHING AFTER THAT IS IN THE POST ABOVE!

"I don't like Mondays ..."  The Boomtown Rats

Welcome to another day of firefighting, news, and rumor control!

For those new to this news site, please  note that the news section is like an iceberg -- only 10% is exposed.  Much of the most valuable information is in the comments we get from readers and residents, so please check out the comment section, too.

And, again, for those who are new here: please don't email us with personal requests, such as "where are the evacuation centers" or "where can I put my pets?" or "how can I help?"  if you expect an answer.  It's going to be a busy day and we're too busy shoveling to do research!   Drill through the stories and comments of the last few days, and most of your questions will be answered.  If not, ask your question on the comment page, and the wonderful hive mind of Altadenablog readers will no doubt have an answer!

What it looks like for Monday: along with  the continuing fight to preserve people and property in Altadena, La Canada-Flintridge, Acton, Glendale, and points between, we think the big story will be the battle for Mt. Wilson.  Besides the historical observatory buildings (this is where they discovered the universe is expanding),  the top of the mountain is the communications hub for Southern California -- an antenna array that services most of the TV, radio, and cellphone traffic.  The area has been evacuated except for firefighters who remained there overnight.  Don't worry if you can't surf to the Mt. Wilson Towercam -- the URL has gone worldwide, so it's getting a lot of traffic right now.

Firefighters last night were gathering in parts of East Altadena that have so far escaped evacuation, so we'll be watching that closely.

Let's get ready to rumble!

WARNING: bookmark this URL to get to this page.  We've discovered that if you conduct an "Altadenablog" search on Google right now, it will point you to several sites that will try to load malware on your computer.  It's pretty insidious -- it will not allow you to surf away nor shut off the browser unless you click the "Yes" button on the "Download antivirus software now!" box.  We have a Mac and know a few hacker tricks to shut down a recalcitrant browser, but others might not be so lucky.

Also discovered same on websites that say "Altadena Fire Hottest Info." 

-------------------

   UPDATE 2:10 PM   

Still evac'ed: Per scanner, Loma Alta between Fair Oaks and Lake is still closed.

Should I stay or should I go?  Got this message from Cathy Gott:

Hi - It's Cathy Gott & I'm watering at Danny's Farm & just got this note from our next door neighbor in La Vina:

[Name withheld] just went home to check on her house and lock it and close her gates. The police told her to leave her gates open and the house unlocked when they told her to evacuate. I would have locked my house.

Anyway she was allowed to go up after being checked. She was at her house for 10 minutes and left to go back to her hotel to check out and pick up her clothes. When she went back down the hill she was blocked by cop cars and was told once she left she can't come back in. They are not letting anyone in since they have a new report. She was just there around 12:24.

   UPDATE 1:30 PM   

Altadenan Jaime Rosier of Houndhikers.org (she took care of our late Ben when we went on vacation) sent us this:

Just wanted to put the word out to you guys that I am helping folks out with small animals, and some coordinating of large animals.  Whether they need water, transportation or info on where to go, I am here to help.  Spent all day Saturday helping evacuate people and animals, relocate horses, goats, dogs and cats.  People can call anytime of day or night or email me directly.  I do not receive text messaging.  To easily recognize my vehicle I have put an animal rescue sign up on the back of my green Jeep Cherokee.

Jaime Rosier
Houndhikers.org
626-437-4068

   UPDATE 1 PM   

EVACUATION NOT LIFTED: OK, we went to the Lake/Loma Alta corner at 11:40, and again at 12:40, and it was still sealed tight. Comments and mail say the evacuation is still in place.

We received information on an 11 AM opening earlier this morning, and said we would wait on that info until it was confirmed because we didn't want to create a problem.  An email went out confirming that  from a member of the sheriff's community advisory council, not to be circulated.  We were told by council chairman Gino Sund by phone that this was in play, and he would send an email when it was confirmed.  When we didn't get anything by about 11:10, we emailed Gino back and he said, because the earlier memo went out, he wasn't planning to send an announcement that evac had ended -- and he also hadn't gotten a confirmatory call from the county supervisor's office.  So we're sorry about the confusion, but we were trying to be careful and exercise due diligence.

Having said that, the scanner just announced (1:08 PM) that the Meadows and La Vina are open, and the only closure is on Loma Alta between Fair Oaks and Lake.

    UPDATE 11:15 AM   

EVACUATION APPARENTLY LIFTED: We have just received word that the evacuation is lifted as of 11 AM.  All evacuees may return, Meadows and La Vina are open. The only exception is the east part of  of Chaney Trail, and not all will have driving access.  An email has gone out to that effect, but town council chair Gino Sund says he's stll waiting for a call from the county supervisor's office to confirm.  Let us know what happens!

and on that note, we have to take the kids to lunch!  We'll be back shortly!

    UPDATE 11 AM   

Waiting for big news. In the meantime, we got videos: Yuri Beregov shares with us three cool videos of firefighting aircraft in operation:

DC-10

Fixed-wing retardant drop

Helicopter drop

    UPDATE 10:30 AM   

Housekeeping detail: we've decided to reverse the order of the comments to reverse chronological -- in other words, the latest stuff will appear first and the older stuff will be pushed down the page.  Let us know if this works for you!  This whole week has been a symphony of improvisation! UPDATE:  Well, it doesn't appear to be working!

   UPDATE 10:00 AM   

Chaney Trail - still no re-entry: scattered newsgroup reports of people returning to Chaney Trail neighborhood if they show ID to the deputies.  However, Alice Wessen of Chaney Firesafe Council says evac orders are still in place.

Air quality - there is none, stay indoors!: Here's the AQMD's take on air quality today (hey, Sam Atwood!)

    UPDATE 9:15 AM   

 A map/satellite image from reader Ken Farley:

I just posted some website satellite info on the blog on the fire in the backcountry. here is an image that goes with it - perhaps of interest. Red - last 12 hrs - orange last 24, yellow since jan1. Holy cow.

Mt. Wilson road was closed at 6 AM this morning, engulfed in fire, cutting off another access to the observatory and antenna array.

    UPDATE 8:45 AM   

Firefighters leave Mt. Wilson:  Latest (7:50) from the Mt. Wilson fire page:

Monday, 31 Aug 09, 7:50 am PDT - At 6:25 this morning, fire crews were instructed to withdraw from Mount Wilson. Larry Webster and Dave Jurasevich left the mountain with them. I have just spoken with Larry and Dave when they reached the bottom of the Angeles Crest Hwy in La Canada, and they report minimal fire activity in the immediate vicinity of Mount Wilson. It is not clear why the withdrawal decision was made nor whether or not the fire crews will return. Those fire fighters joined other crews deployed at the Red Box turnoff to Mount Wilson, five miles from the Observatory. So, they are still within close proximity for redeployment. Thus, the good news is that the fire in the Observatory's vicinity seems to have diminished. The bad news is that there are no fire fighters presently on the scene.

    UPDATE 8 AM   

Superscoopers away! Getting from several news sources that two superscooper planes have arrived at Van Nuys airport, with one more on the way.  THAT'S what we're talkin' about!

Pets need help: Relaying from Debbi Swanson Patrick (one of the Mighty Altadena Bloggers):

Pasadena Animal Shelter is in need of crates, blankets, towels, bowls, toys, anything you can share for the animals that are now displaced due to the fire. They are open round the clock. There is a desperate need, please help...... ...if you can.....PHS
www.phsspca.org
361 S Raymond Ave
Pasadena, CA 91105-2687

(626) 792-7151

Please also remember that Steve's Pets here in Altadena has volunteered to take in animals, as has Laura Graham (check the Sunday entries for contact information).

    UPDATE 7:30 AM   

Ya gotta eat:  Ken Chow sent this to the McNally newsgroup:

Hi neighbors,
I just had a chat w/ the Sheriffs currently stationed on Loma Alta and Fair Oaks.
FYI in case you need groceries or food, they will allow family/people/ vendors to deliver them however they'll have to meet you on the corner of Loma Alta and Fair Oaks. I know that isn't the best news, but at least we have some alternatives that we could make do with.
Just thought everyone should know. Hope this is helpful.
Ken

PCC holding spots:  Classes begin at Pasadena City College today -- mandatory attendance this week -- but they're holding spots for the fire-challenged, says PSN:

Typically, attendance is mandatory the first week of the new semester but officials will waive that requirement for students in Altadena, Pasadena and La Ca ada Flintridge affected by the Station Fire and evacuations, said PCC spokesman Juan Gutierrez.

Mt. Wilson: The situation according to their fire site:

Monday, 31 Aug 09, 6:10 am PDT - Larry and Dave report that fire fighters are preparing to set more back fires below the broadcast towers, but otherwise things are calm on the mountain for the present.

Sunday Firewatch

" ... and Sunday morning coming down ..." - Kris Kristofferson

"I've seen some hard, hard places come down to smoke and ash ..." -- Joni Mitchell

Here are some critical websites today:

 Mt. Wilson's news site.

Altadena FireCam

Mt. Wilson Cam

Inciweb on Station Fire

Mandatory evacuations are in place (as of 8 PM Sat.) at the Meadows; all residences north of Loma Alta Dr. between Lake Ave. and Canyon Crest, above JPL including Camp Chiquita.  We know that voluntary evacs are in place in several areas around town, including West Altadena Dr. and the Florecita area in northwest Pasadena.

Evacuation centers are established at La Canada High School (evac and shelter), 4463 Oak Grove Dr. LCF; Jackson Elementary (evac only) 593 W. Woodbury, Altadena; and Crescenta Valley High School (evac only), 2290 Community Ave., La Crescenta.  We have heard on the ground that Jackson Elementary is locked up, but haven't had a chance to check it out ourselves, so caveat emptor.

As we go through the day, we urge you to check out the Comments section here, too, as all our wonderful readers are a font of good information.

A word before we begin:  please check ALL media resources regarding this fire -- TV, radio (KFWB 980 AM, KNX 1070, KPCC 89.3 FM), print, and online.  We're just one guy who's juggling this with two special needs kids and a wife in the hospital, hardly optimal conditions!  TV has not been as big a player in this fire as we'd hoped, probably because no celebrities are in danger of being harmed.   Use everything you've got!

Also: we probably can't respond to specific email requests (where do I put my animals, I'm on vacation and is my neighborhood safe, etc.)  Things are coming in hard and fast.  If you slog through the posts and comments over the last few days, you'll probably find what you're looking for!

Prayers go out to our firefighters, those displaced, and those worried sick.

------

UPDATE 10 PM

Prayers for the two firefighters lost near Acton.

it has been decided to leave firefighters in place near the Mt. Wilson complex during the night:

http://www.mtwilson.edu/fire.php

Sharing some video from frequent commenter Isaac Garcia of the DC-10 making a drop on Saturday.

--------

---------

UPDATE 8:20

Just in from the LA Times (thx Monica Hubbard)

Station fire continues to grow  to 42,500 acres, destroys 18 homes, threatens TV transmitters

Eighteen homes have now been destroyed by the Station fire, which has burned 42,500 acres in the Angeles National Forest, fire officials said Sunday evening.

The blaze is 5% contained. It continues to threaten Mt. Wilson, home to a 105-year-old observatory and transmitters used by television and radio stations, cellphone providers and numerous law-enforcement agencies, including the FBI, CIA and the Secret Service.

The fire is pushing toward the Acton area to the north and Sunland to the west. Firefighters were able to stop the fire from approaching homes in Glendale, La Cañada Flintridge and La Crescenta.

Two TV stations said tonight that their transmitters are threatened by the Station fire, which is burning near the communications center atop Mt. Wilson.

LA Times' fire map

-

View Los Angeles County fires north of La Canada Flintridge, Altadena in a larger map

------------

UPDATE 8 PM

New firefighter deployments: Strike teams forming for Mt. Lowe:  Bill Westphal says as of 5 PM firefighter strike teams are forming to tackle the Mt. Lowe motorway, where fire has crossed several spots.  Firefighters are also testing hydrant water pressure on the Skyview cul de sac above Loma Alta. 

Mt. Wilson in harm's way: It's not our policy to cut and paste other folk's news stories (they did the work, they deserve the eyeball count, that's what links are for!) but we're making an exception here:  LA Times story, filed 5:42 PM tonight:

Station fire likely to hit historic Mt. Wilson observatory, fire officials say
August 30, 2009 |  5:42 pm
The fire burning in Angeles National Forest is approaching the historic solar observatory and television transmission towers atop Mt. Wilson, according to Los Angeles County fire officials.

The communications towers house transmitters for every major television station in Los Angeles.

“We expect it to get there in the next two to four hours,” said county fire Capt. Mark Savage.

Crews were clearing brush around the structures, but fire officials were not sure if they could leave personnel on the mountain to fight the flames because of the danger and limited escape routes. The fire is less than two miles away.

“It’s a serious situation,” said Bob Shindelar, operations branch director of California Incident Management Team 5. “Is the observatory going to make it? We’re doing everything in our power. But I wouldn’t be surprised if it is impacted by fire today or tomorrow.”
-- Joe Mozingo

Sam Nemati reports as of 5:30 that the voluntary evac is lifted for Crestford Dr. area.

Missing links: Getting good report of this scanner website:
http://www.radioreference.com/apps/audio/?ctid=201

which includes chatter from the water-dropping choppers.  Will definitely check it out tomorrow.

This link will lead you to the Alert LA County Emergency web page, where you can register your cell phone number, VOIP phone number, and email address to be notified in case of emergency:

http://tinyurl.com/mrrmkl

Also good to know: LA Fire, which does update:
http://www.fire.lacounty.gov/

And LA county's information portal, which has press releases -- the latest includes evacuation sites and pet evac sites:

http://portal.lacounty.gov/wps/portal/lac/home

UPDATE 7:30 PM: Back from a necessary pool break with the children, who are now more controllable!  Thanks to all of you feeding information into the comments section -- we are so grateful for our readers and reporters, helping keep the community informed.

It was kind of a working break -- we were in the Floricita area, and it was like Saigon, 1974 -- mulitple choppers overhead and firefighting tankers, taking on the hillsides and Mt. Wilson.  This is a major effort, and easily the biggest story of 2009.

Greg Garner took this picture of a phoscheck drop on Mt. Wilson.

We're going through the emails, and will be filling in periodically through the night.

UPDATE 3 PM: Only here for a few minutes -- the kids have been invited to a pool party, and REALLY need to get out of the house -- will have fuller updates in the evening.  However, it is grand to see the sky clearing and he helicopters making their drops.  Woo-hoo!

Also, we have lifted the moderation on comments (we went to moderation because there was an attack of libelous comments awhile back).  The comments and information they share have been so valuable that we want 'em out ASAP.  So please, the comment boards are for fire information only (compliments are nice, too!)  Anybody who wants to namecall, spam, go off-topic, or troll (and we've already had one of those today) will be erased as soon as we find them and banned for life without possibility of parole, as we are not in a mood for nonsense today.

The bullet: no new evacs in Altadena, and the mandatory evacuation areas remain so now. Alice Wesson of the Chaney Trail fire council says she observed a flareup around Zorthian ranch, so we're not in the clear yet.

Meantime, here are members of the Altadena Town Council posing with some pol earlier today.

Evacuation Center: Lonnee Hamilton checked it out:

UPDATE: I drove by at 10:30pm last night. Jackson Elementary is closed. I drove to La Canada High School and spoke directly with the Red Cross public information officer there. He told me that La Canada High School is the evacuation center for Altadena.

La Canada High School seemed very well equipped. The Red Cross has already set up, along with the Humane Society.

I spoke with Humane Society worker Bob Fiddler, and the one thing he asked is that if people do need to evacuate with their pets, it's better to take the pets directly to the Pasadena Humane Society rather than to the evacuation center.

The pets have to sit in crates under the shade at the evacuation centers until they can get them to the Humane Society. It's more comfortable for the pets to just be dropped off at the Society than spend time sitting in a crate.

If you have other volunteer info to add, please do so here: http://rosecityobamaworks.ning.com/forum/topics/la-canada-altadena-...

UPDATE 10 AM: Sorry, folks, but we will be out of pocket for several hours to make a hospital visit.  Please continue to send us your news and observations -- we'll play a mighty game of catch-up when we return.  And make use of all your other media resources -- radio (rumor has it KFI 640 will be covering fires today), TV (if some celebrity's in danger of getting singed), and the PSN and LATimes newspaper sites, which are very good.  We'll be using those plus scanner in the interim.

UPDATE: 9:45 AM: We usually make a special post when we've hit a significant number of page views.  We've hit 175,000 today -- almost 10,000 since midnight GMT Saturday.  This is it.  Moving on ...

Sitrep around town: Monica Hubbard has sent this compilation from the newsgroups:

1.  I drove over to Lincoln and Loma Alta this morning.  Per the Sherriff, no further activity in The Meadows last night. Very smoky outside this morning.  Still not allowing people into The Meadows. Per a neighbor, all but a skeleton crew of firefighters pulled out of The Meadows at 7:30 p.m.  (Not verified with the Fire Department.) Per a neighbor, the fire did come into The Meadows on the vacant land on the west of Risinghill Road at the top of the road but was extinguished by the flame retardant that was dropped repeatedly over the hill. Also, per a neighbor, Theo's house at the very top of Risinghill was protected by fire crews. If anyone has other updates, please email to me.

Thanks,
Meadows FireSafe Council (Greg Stanton)

2.  The sheriff is stationed at Loma Alta and Glenrose.  They said they have orders-if you walk, bike, or drive past them, they have orders not to let you back in.  For your own safety.  So if you have to get something-take your exit pack with you.  Eric McCalla

3.  They are not making any exceptions. The deputies at the corner of Fair Oaks and Loma Alta can see my front door and they said if I pass them I can't go back. David Wilson

Air power: The scanner-monitoring Tom Rosebrook says that, due to smoke, air attack will not begin until at least 10 AM.  Rumor has it that a superscooper will be on its way today from Ontario, CA, to protect Mt. Wilson.

UPDATE, 8 AM: A few new websites to check out:

Inside SoCal has a list of links.

Firefighterblog has information

If you don't have a police scanner, this may be an adequate substitute

LA Times' Fire Map

Lonnee Hamilton's Obamaworks blog lists ways you can help.

Pets and Cars:  Laura Graham emails:

Two notes for evacuees: We have a small but fenced yard and can put up pets and small livestock, goats, chickens, etc. We also have a spare Queen bed and sofa if you need a place to shower and lay your head for the night

Second, the parking lot at Ronnie's Garage on Lake and Morada is available for any vehicle that needs to be brought off the hillside. Just drop it off and call me at 626-543-4844. Any help I can provide, call too.

Report on the ground: Weather guy and Camguy Bill Westphal, who weathered the night at home despite evacuation orders, gives this report at 7 AM:

View is the same as yesterdays.  No visible flames today, but then again not much is visible :-)  Winds shifted last night and are now out of the North blowing the smoke down on us.  Neighbors who stayed, despite mandatory evacuation orders, kept watch during the night ready to alert the others if needed.  Thank you to you all.  It was a wonderful and heartwarming experience. Current Conditions:

Temperature 74.7°, 10% Humidity and wind from the Northeast (27°) at 4 MPH.  Forecast is for clear skies and 100°. Just heard the first Helicopters.  Situation looks better at this point.   Altadena WeatherCam set another one day record yesterday with 14,677 hits from 2,480 unique viewers.  WOW ! Looking forward to a better day.

Saturday: Station Fire Updates: Evacs now north of Loma Alta, west of Lake

We have started a new section of fire news for Saturday, Aug. 29.  Thanks to all who contributed photos, stories, email, and comments yesterday. We pulled through it, but as we sit at 7 AM and hear the aircraft rumble, we know there's another full day ahead. Pray for the firefighters!

Again, key sites:

Inciweb for Station Fire

Altadena Weather Cam

Mt. Wilson Tower Cam

LaCanadaFlintridge.Com for news from that city.

CAVEAT: We're staying here at HQ rather than going in the field, as (1) we have two kids to take care of solo, and (2) we can give you information faster here if we huddle in front of the computer and scanner.  We WILL be off-line mid-late PM so we can see our wife in the hospital -- will be back in the early evening.

--------------

THE LATEST

11:30 PM: Crown City Who? Wrapping this up for the day -- just watched Crown City News on internet feed for Ch. 56, and they said for information on the fire, go to the Pasadena city website or LaCanadaFlintridge.com.  We, apparently, are chopped liver.

And remember earlier today when we said we'd just passed 160,00 page views?  That was then, this is now -- we're at 172,000 page views.  Yup -- 12,000 today.  Thank you all!  That's a lot of liver.

Stats: the fire tripled in size today, about 20,000 acres.  Local evacuated areas include north of Loma Alta from Lake to Lincoln, the Meadows and La Vina areas, and the Florecita neighborhood in northwest Pasadena.  There is an evacuation area, but not a shelter, at Jackson Elementary, but our reports from the ground aren't too impressed with it.

The photo was sent by Bethany Baird, of the Poppyfield/Olive area, taken tonight. (Thank you!)

We echo the sentiments of Lynn Marini, who wrote:

Hi, I'm Lynn Marini & I actually live in Pasadena but my family lives in Altadena & I worship @ St. Mark's.PLEASE express my gratitude to everyone who is working so diligently to keep us posted with up to minute & accurate reports. God Bless you & keep you safe. We are praying for the safety of all the firefighters & law enforcement persons.Gratefully,Lynn

Indeed.  Let's hope for a peaceful night, and that we all stay safe.

10:30 PM: At least the critters are safe: Greg Sweet sent this over in the afternoon when we were gone, and we're just catching up to it now:

I just spoke with Sue Burgess at the pack station at Chantry Flat. Sierra Madre Search & Rescue has told them that the fire has round Mt. Disappointment and is advancing on Mt Wilson. S&R told the pack station that if the fire continues as is, they have about twelve hours to evacuate. That would be 3am. So I checked with the folks at Alta Loma Equestrian Center and they told me "go ahead and bring them." I said, "It's 12 donkey and one mule!" and they said "It's an emergency! Don't worry about it!"

The six goats may come to my house.

Steve's Pet's offers shelter: Carrie Meyers, owner of Steve's Pets, tells us:

Steve's Pets at 2395 N. Lake Ave in Altadena is offering a safe place to  board your animals free of charge for anyone that has been evacuated from there homes. We are open Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 5pm 626 798-6290 if its after 5pm please call 375-6446.
God Bless

Whisky Tango Foxtrot moment:  Phone rang this afternoon: "Hi, I was planning to move to
Altadena, and I wondered if I could spend a few moments getting information from you -- like when the trash collection day is, what the neighborhoods are like ...."  We said we were too busy.

9:30 PM: Bill Westphal, who is remaining in his Hollyslope Road home despite an evac order, gives us a ray of hope on his Weathercam:

This sounds a little corney but the Star Of Palawoo is lit tonitght giving us a little hope in all this. (Star is on far right)

Nice to be wanted:  Mindy Lemoine emails us: "Our house on Monterosa Dr was mandatorily evacuated around 4:30.  We are hightailing it back from Vegas and hanging on your every update by iPhone!!!!"

Pictures: thank you all for the pictures you're sending!  We're still busy catching up with written data -- but we're already thinking of putting together a "Fire of 2009" page after this is all over, and we'll use a lot of them!  Nice to have so many journalists on the ground here in Altadena!

8 PM: How to help: Lonnee Hamilton writes us that she's started a blog at her Rose City Obamaworks site to share information about what is needed and how to help:

http://rosecityobamaworks.ning.com/forum/topics/la-canada-altadena-fires-how

Evac, evac, where's the evac?  Last we heard this afternoon (before we went on our hospital visit), Muir HS was the place for evacuees.  Apparently during the afternoon it was changed to Jackson Elementary.  Lonnee, in a later email to us, says that only about four people were at Jackson and they may move to La Canada-Flintridge High School, another evac center.  We WILL try to pin down where evacuees are to go!

7:50 PM: Fire moving north: Gino Sund writes@ 7:45 PM:

Update on fire:  latest flyover with visual and infrared analysis by County Fire indicates that the fire is moving away from Altadena but still in direction of Mt. Wilson.  No structures burned and danger to residences seems to lessening. 

7:45 PM: Chaney Trail neighborhood preparing for evac: Alice Wessen sent this to the Chaney Trail group:

I just recieved a map with all of our addresses on it. The last person here is going to give it to the Structure Protection Commander (what a title) before they leave.

What will happen is you will start to see increased presence of emergency vehicles, USFS, Fire trucks on our roads (Alzada, Chaney, Jaxine) setting up and sheriffs will be here to alert us with very loud speakers. Fire they give a voluntary evac order then it is a mandatory....of course it depends on winds etc. It may go straight to mandatory. Just don't know yet.

It will not be any subtle like a phone call or reverse 911 or such. It will be very loud speakers and sheriffs hollering out to get out. They will want to coordinate our evacuation along with the increased presence of vehicles to each doesn't impede the other.

I think most of us have our cars already turned around and are packed.

Take care

Prepare for power outage: Gino Sund writes: "Just a thought about being prepared.  There currently is a new power outage in La Canada due to the fire.  The major transmission lines to Altadena could also be affected by this fire.  I don't want to be an alarmist, but we know that a power outage is a possibility for Altadena.  Being aware of this possibility, might allow you to be better prepared in case this becomes a reality."

He also writes (we're still chewing through emails!):  "Just got the word that County Fire will be evacuating all homes north of Loma Alta, from Canyon Crest (Lincoln) to Lake Ave.  Beginning in the West working toward Lake.  This will take several hours."

 

 

7:30 PM:  Bill Westphal, who contributed this photo of a DC-10 fire retardant drop above, tells us that his Hollyslope Road neighborhood has been ordered to be evacuated, but he and several other neighbors intend to stay to help firefighters and forestall looters.  Godspeed!  

Chris Considine writes (at 7:12 PM):

I just spent an hour roaming the westside of Altadena. I was at the Winslow turnout above JPL along with a lot of people and 3 news crews. This viewpoint is probably best for seeing the advancing fire that is attacking the Millard Canyon area and the Cheney Trail fire break. Several P-3's were hitting the fire with retardant, and as predicted the DC-10 came back from the first hit in one hour from the round trip to the high desert airport refilling station and back. As is the standard procedure, it made two scouting runs with the lead plane and then on the third run hit exactly on the high point fire break. Photos show this. Literally minutes later the fire exploded into extremely high flames, Photo shows this,  and the retardant drop was RIGHT ON THE MONEY to prevent an explosive run over the break. I can't say that is totally stopped it, but it couldn't have been a better call by the forestry department.

Traffic is getting out of control up there....best that everyone STAY home in their current positions. At least 8 CHP officers along with many other law enforcement people are trying to keep people away. So stay home. We NEED them to be able to EVACUATE people if necessary, and not just stop lookie loos.

I am devastated to think that my favorite haunt of Millard Canyon and Brown Mountain road are gone, but it looks that way.

Scanner geeks alert:  Steve Rhoades writes:

A lot of fire freqs are active this afternoon. Some of the more interesting ones I am hearing
are:

• Fixed wing air to air: 169.2875 (I didn't have this one in my list previously, does it have an official designation?)
• Air Attack 134.675 AM  Most of the fire fighting helos are here.
• "Air coordinator" - 122.920 AM. Not sure of the official designation, but mostly reports for other units.
• LASO CTAC-2  482.8375  Command Post. Evacuation orders can be heard here.
• LACOFD Blue-5 470.6625  Structure Protection. Reports of endangered property and early discussion of evacuations.

7 PM: Just got home and are catching up as rapidly as we can!  Did notice that the Fair Oaks/Loma Alta/Wapello intersection is closed down, so don't go anywhere near it right now -- we were caught in traffic for about 20 mins. trying to clear it.

Also, at about 6 PM, John Muir HS didn't look like it was receiving visitors.

We also recommend reading the comments section for valuable info.

NORTH OF LOMA ALTA EVACUATION:  From Ann Meister:

Around 4:30-5 pm. Are you aware that the police announced a mandatory evacuation to those of us living north of Loma Alta between Lake and Fair Oaks. They were even making the horse people walk in and walk out their horses.

Mt. Wilson: Observatory reports that staff has left the area, and fire may reach the observatory Sunday. A superscooper is flying in from Ontario, Canada, to help defend the observatory and antenna field, loss of which would be devastating to Southern California communications.

Sharon McNary of KPCC writes: "KPCC's newsroom is interested in hearing from people in the fire-threatened areas, whether they are still at home, or evacuated. People can share their stories and upload photos using this link: www.scpr.org/in/questions/fires0908
Replies are confidential, nothing you share is aired or published without permission. A reporter or producer might call for more information."

UPDATE 1:30: Mt. WIlson: Apparently now there is growing concern that the critical communications towers on Mt. Wilson may be endangered.  In a note to the "neighbors" usegroup, Steve Bass reports that there is only one engineer now on the hill taking care of all stations.  Upper Big Tujunga Rd. is no longer usable for egress due to a fire 300 yards from Colby Ranch on Upper Big Tujunga.  The only safe way out now is through Wrightwood. 

Update 12:25:  Dimitri just sent this first-hand report, which we've moved up from comments:

I just got done with an extensive driving tour of Altadena, La Canada, and La Crescenta. Lincoln is closed at Loma Alta, except to residents. La Vina does not appear to be in any immediate danger. The fire is around a mile from JPL, but the more intense burning seems to be to the east and west of there and also further up the canyon. Cheney Trail is not closed, at least not at Loma Alta, and the fire is burning fairly far up the mountain from there.

The homes most threatened seem to be those few at the very top of The Meadows. The flames are fairly close to those homes now. Also, the homes near the La Canada Country Club are still threatened, but not as directly from my point of view, but I had a hard time seeing back behind the lower ridges. I base this comment on the relative lack of smoke and flames emanating from that area. The fire is raging up the side of the mountain to the east, but up and away from homes. The wind has picked up, but is blowing the fire back onto previously-burned areas, which may be a good thing.

I was a little disheartened by the lack of heliocopters and planes battling the fire. There were only two helicopters making sporadic drops and those were on the La Canada side. It seems a lot more resources were expended on the Sierra Madre fire last year, with the planes making constant chemical drops. I agree with those who claim that the fire department strategy seems to be to let it consume fuel and burn itself out, but that is, literally, playing with fire when the flames are so close to residential areas. I was very surprised to not see constant drops on the ridge behind The Meadows given the proximity of intense and open flames to some of the homes there. I may be reading too much into this, but I got the perception that the fire crews were working harder to save La Canada, possibly because there are many more houses on that side of the Arroyo.

The Bullet at Noon:  Area north of Canyon Crest and West of Lincoln received mandatory evacuaton orders -- includes Meadows and La Vina.  Evac center set up at John Muir HS, 1905 Lincoln Ave., Pasadena.  Air assets are on their way.  The fire has consumed over 7.500 acres.  Scanner just called for VOLUNTARY evacuation of Sunset Ridge east of Lincoln.

UPDATE 12 NOON: "Air assets" (i.e. fixed wing aircraft for sure, maybe choppers to follow) are on their way to assist.  Ocean View Blvd. on the La Crescenta end of the fire is due for a water drop soon, as flames are 100 yds. from houses there.

Reader Sam Nemati says that a firetruck as just stationed itself on the top of Crestford Dr.  He also contributes this photo, taken about 15 minutes ago:

UPDATE 10:46: John Muir was just confirmed as evacuation site.

UPDATE 10:15:  Scanner just announced that evac site is John Muir HS on Lincoln. Will try to get this resolved!  (10:20: Sheriff's station doesn't know where evac is going to be!)  Our bet is Muir as it's farther from the fire zone.

UPDATE 10:08: Loma Alta Park is evacuation center site.

UPDATE 10:03 AM: Scanner said they are now to start evacuating west of Lincoln and N. of Canyon Crest Rd.  Fire and sheriff's units are being deployed to assist.  Meadows & La Vina and points surrounding.

UPDATE 10 AM: Sheriff's station tell us that they're thinking of mandatory evacs, but haven't made it official yet -- whereas one of our readers there says they ARE evacuating Meadows and La Vina.

UPDATE 9:30: Police scanner chatter says fire units are at the top of Risinghill Rd., and looking for approval of a fire chief to begin evacuation. Nothing official yet, but stay tuned.  If you're on the scene, let us know!

Leslie Lowes took this picture this morning by Nuccio's Nursery on Chaney Trail.

UPDATE 7:30 AM: Weather guy Bill Westphal contributes: "A view from our back yard this morning looking North-Northwest.  As of 6am, temperature 74°, 13% Humidity and slight wind from the Northeast."

Greg Sweet contributes this Forest Service map of the closed areas:

Greg also contributes a letter from Bear Canyon Forest Volunteer Richard Nyerges, in the comments section.

160,000

This little news site crossed the 150,000 total page view threshold last Thurs., Aug. 20.  Today it crosses 160,000.  Our growth in the past two days is literally by magnitudes  -- we had 247 page views on Aug. 9, our low day this month, 718 on Thursday, 1,712 on Friday, and already 3,600 by Saturday morning (Typepad starts counting at 0:00 Universal, or Greenwich Mean, time).  While it pleases us, it also means that there's an information gap out there, and with the help of all our contributors, we are filling it in the present crisis.

Especially on days like today, working with readers and contributors like you, we love this work.  We love Altadena.

Station Fire Friday: continuing updates

Things are happening very quickly now, so we've decided to create this top-of-page section to keep abreast of new information.  We're relying on brodcast and newssite reports, first-hand reports from readers, the scanner, and Twitter.  If you have any other sources of info, let us know and we'll use 'em!

Inciweb Station Fire website (not updated frequently): http://www.inciweb.org/incident/1856/

UPDATE 11:15: Chaney Trail: According to the Chaney Trail neighborhood newsgroup, firetrucks from locales as exotic as Napa and Calistoga as well as Los Angeles and the Forest Service have just headed up the trail. BTW, if you're in a fire-adjacent area, you may want to run your sprinklers to keep the area moist.

Meadows: Moved this note from Dennis Bridwell from the comments:

I want to update you on the latest regarding evacuations in the Meadows. I understand that the sheriff's station told you that there were no voluntary evacuations in the Meadows, that is not correct. Two residence at the top of Risinghill were asked to evacuate last night. I drove up there myself and spoke with them.

This afternoon a Sheriff's Deputy Sergeant with the LaCrescenta station came to my house and discussed with me their plan for this evening. One part of the plan was to ask residents to evacuate if they felt they needed to. Obviously they do not want to scare anyone, but living on Risinghill myself I can tell you that the fire is coming at us like a bat out of hell. The sheriff's are patrolling the area in the Meadows and one car is stationed at Lincoln and Canyon Crest in order to make sure that those who are looking for trouble do not make it up the hill, nor those who just want to get a closer look at the fire on the crest. My family are one house of about half of our street that are sticking around.

For your information several homes and cars have been broken into over the past two days. We have been in touch with the majority of our neighbors updating them on information as we get and helping them get packed, or just reassuring them that we will be alright.

I just want you to understand that this is a very serious situation but we have faith in our fire department to keep us up dated and safe. My wife and I will be here until my property starts to burn if that happens, so if you really want to know what is going on up here let me know. Thanks for getting the word out as it comes to you.
Dennis Bridwell
Vice-Chairman
Altadena Town Council

UPDATE 9:45: Moved this up from the comments:

9:40pm Update: We live at Poppyfields/Santa Anita. Just went up to Alta Loma & Marengo. Lots of fire personnel up there but one of them told me ‘we’re just investigating’ - they don’t expect it to come closer down the hill overnight.
Winds have died down. Fire is “stable”. So no evacuations probably below/ south of Loma Alta at this point.
Jeanne & Lynn

UPDATE 8:30 PM: JPL closed: via reader Andrew Bingham, who passed us an email from Randy J. Aden, Manager, Office of Protective Services at Jet Propulsion Laboratory:

The fire does not at present pose a threat to JPL but as a precautionary measure, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory’s Oak Grove site has been closed.  JPL will remain closed throughout the weekend except for essential personnel.  Non-essential personnel will not be allowed on lab.  Facilities at the nearby Woodbury complex, buildings 600, 601, 602 and 605 will remain open.
 

Those wishing to learn the status of the Laboratory should call (800)303-4575 or (818) 354-8601 where State of the Lab updates will be posted. Updates will also be delivered to JPL personnel via JPL email; through the State of the Lab call in numbers; the Emergency Communication System, and postings on the jpl home page at jpl.nasa.gov.

Also, just checked with the Altadena Sheriff's station about a rumor of evacuation:  nobody is being told to evacuate (even voluntarily) at this time.  However, people in the neighborhoods on the edge of the fire are being told to be ready to move, and if they're really uncomfortable, to just go ahead and find another place to stay. At this point (8:40 PM) nobody is being ordered to evacuate, either voluntarily or forcibly.

UPDATE 7 PM: Meadows Firesafe Council has sent out the following email:

With the fire has come an increase in curious persons and cars here in The Meadows creating safety concerns. In addition, a Canyon Crest neighbor's car tires were slashed last night.Altadena Sheriffs will increase their presence in The Meadows this evening including a watch at Lincoln and Canyon Crest to help identify residents as legitimately having access to The Meadows.
Please be sure to have you I.D. with you should you need it. Also, if you see suspicious activity, please do not hesitate to contact the Altadena Sherriff at 626-798-1131.
Thanks,

The Meadows FireSafe Council

And for fellow scanner geeks, one of our readers says that Station fire air-to-air freq is 169.2875.  Might be over with for the night, but should prove exciting tomorrow as the choppers and planes rev up.

Also, as we suspected, any danger from the Station fire to Mt. Wilson is probably just alarmism.  Greg Sweet has actually mapped it out:

Of course, this is just eye-balling it from the ground here, but I have attached a map of the most likely path of the fire to Mt. Wilson. Being familiar with the terrain, I would say that the fire is certainly in Bear Canyon, but it would have to make its way up to Markham Saddle, then across upper Eaton Canyon to get to Mt. Wilson. Burn area in red (?) and likely path in yellow. Point of fact: I am a hiker, mountain history buff and donkey packer, but I am not a firefighter; this just a guess. By the way, the last time that area burned was the 1954 Woodwardia fire that took out Will Thrall's cabin, so there is a lot of fuel in Bear Canyon.

UPDATE 6 PM: Susan Goldman relays a message from the Pasadena Humane Society:

We have been helping to evacuate animals (including a bob cat and an alpaca!) and we will take care of the pets of fire evacuees for free, for as long as they need to stay. I hope you can help by making a donation today.

UPDATE 5 PM: Calfire twitters:

STATION FIRE is currently making runs towards Mount Wilson, which is a major communications facility servicing all of Southern California.

Judging by the view from Mt. Wilson's cam, the fire has quite a ways to travel before it hits Mt. Wilson.

Update 4:30: Bill Westphal emails us: " The Altadena WeatherCam has been turned due North for a better view of the East Flank of the Station Fire.  As of 4pm, the fire has reached Brown Mountain just above Millard Canyon."

Weathercam here.

Greg Sweet emails us: "I talked to Lonnie, the campground host at Millard Canyon about an hour ago (2:30pm 08/28/09). He had spoken with Wally at Search & Rescue and with Kevin Hunt, forest ranger. At that time there were no evacuation orders for Millard Canyon, but that he expected them soon; these things having to be drawn up by lawyers. However, he was wise enough to have already removed the pickup truck, computer, papers etc, and was considering the removal of his home/RV. Other cabin owners seemed to him to be less responsive to the threat.

As of the time of our conversation, the fire had already burned through the Ken Burton trail and was advancing on the Brown Mountain road. Bug lovers rest assured, the bee keeper removed his hive two weeks ago. The word that the Burton trail had burned tells me that it probably went through Oakwilde Campground as well. But since that facility was slated for rehabilitation anyway, and the access road down Dark Canyon had long since overgrown, this may be a silver lining. "Resources" were scheduled to attack the fire from Chaney Trail/Brown Mountain this evening. Also, I witnessed a steady stream of panicked La Vina residents headed home mid-afternoon. Nuccio's had the Rainbirds on and looked a little worried.

Please remember that as of 5 PM, nobody has been evacuated from Altadena, but several neighborhoods in the northwest (Millard Canyon, La Vina and The Meadows) have been/are being warned to prepare to move.

Person with gun, Fair Oaks and Woodbury

As if we don't have enough trouble tonight, sheriffs are rolling to a report of a man with a gun on the corner of Fair Oaks and Woodbury 10 PM tonight.

We're on firewatch

UPDATE 4 PM: FIRE GETTING CLOSE TO WEST ALTADENA NEIGHBORHOODS.  Scroll down for updates.

Thanks as always to Bill Westphal for the astounding photograph of JPL below the Station fire, taken at the Windsor/Ventura turnout last night.

Other bits and pieces we will fill in as we get them.  Keep checking here!:

• Chaney Trail gate was closed as a precautionary measure.
• Here's the InciWeb site for updates on the Station fire: http://www.inciweb.org/incident/1856/

UPDATE 3:30 PM: Readers have been sending in pictures as well.

Here's one from Ann Murga, who says:" This photo was taken [about 1 PM] by my husband Eric Murga.  It was taken from the vicinity of Marengo and Alameda (near the Mausoleum). "[via iPhone]

UPDATE 3:45 PM: Alice Wessen at the Chaney Trail Firesafe Council as sent this around:

Per J Lopez of LA County Fire, [approx 2 PM] the fire jumped to the east side of the Arroyo and is slooowly creeping towards the northwest
part of Altadena ie Meadows, Florecita etc.
Per emergency notice at JPL, JPL is not in immediate danger.

I just talked with Greg Stanton of Meadows Fire Safe Council. They have notified their neighbors to prepare for evacuation just in case. The
fire is one mile away from the Meadows area

 

UPDATE 4 PM: Raina Wessen has been on this with the camera as well. 

Here's the view from Chaney Trail today

Here's a flame retardant drop visible from the Chaney Trail neighborhood:

... and a helicopter water drop.

UPDATE 4 PM: C. Jake sends a picture from the Loma Alta Equestrian Center about 2 PM today:

UPDATE 4 PM: Chris Considine sends this report:

I just drove up the 210 from California Bl and got off at Lincoln. Altadena is now threatened by this Station Fire.

The La Canada side is smoldering which of course is excellent news for our neighbors to the West. But now the fire is roaring over to the East and heading for the La Vina area very quickly. As always super kudos to those men and women risking their lives on the lines and in the air to douse this fire.

UPDATE 4:15: PSN reports that "Search and Rescue team members are heading for Altadena neighborhods in Millard Canyon, La Vina and The Meadows warning residents to be ready to leave if the Station Fire continues to spread east."

Two Meadows homes evacuated

Via Dennis Bridwell, two homes on Risinghill were asked to voluntarily evacuate as a precaution due to a change in wind direction from the Station Fire near La Canada.  About 500 homes have been evacuated in La Canada so far, according to the latest reports.

President Streets still suffers burglary wave, but one good outcome

Newsgroups are still buzzing about the rash of burglaries in the President Streets neighborhood.  But it's always good news when a perp goes down.  This story was making the rounds Thursday morning from some residents of the area -- good work from Pasadena PD:

Unfortunately, last night we became a victim of these thefts. A 15 year old hispanic male came inside our house sometime between 11 and 1 AM, took my wife's keys off the entry table and then stole her car right out of our driveway.They had to drive between two other cars in the small circle drive and then over our lawn to get out onto glen canyon. 

Usually we are in bed much earlier, but last night I stayed up to watch coverage of the La Canada fire and made it until 11 then went to bed. Our dog was not awoken as we sleep at an end of the house pretty far from the front door and she was in there with us. She woke up when the Sheriff knocked on the door at 1:20 AM.

The car had been located a few miles away and the kid driving it apprehended by Pasadena PD over near Howard and El Molino. He told the police he had permission to be driving thevehicle at the time, totally lying to the police while in  handcuffs.

In executing some good police work, they had pulled him over because he looked out of place in the car and/or was driving erratically. The Sheriff escorted us down to pick her BMW up from Pasadena PD and I must say all of these good folks were nothing but kind, helpful, understanding and wonderfully competent.The car suffered some front quarter and right side damage and my wife's GPS and Bluetooth speaker system were both gone.

Please adjust this as you see fit for distribution and for heaven's sake lock all your cars and doors and windows so no-one has to go through what we did from 1 to 4 am this morning ... And thank you again for your time, concern and information sharing, we really appreciate you.

UPDATE:  There have also been reports in the area of two Hispanic men walking up and down the street with what appears to be a garage door remote control, pointing it at garages -- apparently trying to find one that responds.  (Such things happen -- once, on an outing with the kids, we used our car remote to open our van, and a van nearby opened up, too!)

Land Use Committee Sept. 1 meeting cancelled - cell tower continued

From chair Brian League:

The LUC continued the AT&T Cell Phone Tower Conditional Use Permit located at the Lincoln Ave Reservoir site (Fair Oaks and Loma Alta) from its June meeting.  The applicant's representative requested the item be continued to the October meeting.   The applicant is in the process of evaluating an alternative site for this Cell Tower and is currently investigating this location. 

 

Hubert's tree-studded wonderland

LA Times has a photo feature of a property to lust after, florist/event planner Walter Hubert.  Ignore the Times' headline -- he just works in Pasadena, he LIVES in Altadena.

You love your tomatoes, but don't over-water them!

What sold us on this release was the picture of the luscious tomatoes that came with it!  Just a reminder message from Altadena Heritage's Michele Zack, who's quite the tomato herself:

#1 Tomato Growing Tip: Don't Over-Water!!!

Altadena Heritage will hold a hands-on Efficient Irrigation Workshop on Sat., Aug, 29 at the Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Drive form 9 to 11 am. Irrigation contractor Tom Poplin will explain how to retrofit old systems, and a rep from J. Harold Mitchell Irrigation Supply will answer all your questions. The group as a whole will look at what works and what doesn't in the Community Center's system. Free to members, $5 to non-members, rsvp to  Altadenaheritage@earthlink.

Smoke gets in your eyes ...

... and lungs, and everywhere else.  Disgustingly hot and smokey today.

Fortunately, Pasadena's Public Information officer Ann Erdman has sent some information on coping that's worth passing on, after the jump:

Back, but not at full power

We're back on an as-needed basis today.  Surgery went well, but hospitalization and recovery is a long road, and blogging is light today.  Thank you for all your prayers and good wishes!

Project: Altadena Open House next Sat.

Molly Tierney at Photography by Walt tells us she's very excited about the photos that will appear in "Project: Altadena" -- a month (or so!) long project of local photographers from all walks of life, armed with a disposable camera of 27 pictures, recording life in our town.

In celebration, the Altadena Arts Coalition is pairing with North Lake Ave. merchants in their second open house next Sat., Sept. 5, with more activities than you can count.  Here's the official word:

September 5, 2009
5:00-??
(North lake and Mariposa in the alley beside Altadena Hardware)

•  Featured Photographs will be exhibited at Altadena Junction near the festival site!
• *Food and Refreshments from the Coffee Gallery,O' Happy Days, a Taco Stand and The Park Bench Deli.
• *Live music "Wreck and Sow"
• Gallery at the End of the World will be having their quarterly art show
• Book Signing and Photo-booth at Webster's Fine Stationers
• Be sure to visit the local businesses in the area open to meet you!
• Info about the Arroyo Co-op, historical society, and much more!
• Great Community event! Invite friends and family!
• Thanks
  Altadena Arts Coalition

Weekendin'

Events are free unless otherwise noted.

Fri., Aug. 28

• Library's Friday Fun Flick: "Hanna Montana: the Movie," rated G, 3:30 PM at the Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa.
• Open Mic night, spoken word at Farnsworth Park, 7 PM.

Sat. Aug. 29

• Altadena Heritage: Efficient Irrigation Workshop at the Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Dr., 9-11 AM.  Free for members, $5 suggested donation for non-members.
• SSGA Summer Concert Series: The All-American Wranglers at Farnsworth Park, 7 PM.

Taking the day off

Dr. Mrs. Altadenablog will be going into surgery today, so we're taking the day off.  (Some stuff we've previously programmed in will be published today, but we're not going to keep up with ongoing events, such as the fires).  Hope to see you soon -- keep us in your thoughts & prayers today.

Tomorrow will be smokin'

... 'cause of the fire in the Angeles National Forest above La Canada-Flintridge. Red flag warnings in the mountains for the foreseeable future, triple digit temps predicted for tomorrow, a nasty day all around.

And if you're planning on hitting the links, don't go to Brookside.  Pasadena's Public Information Officer and righteous babe Ann Erdman says that the golf course near the Rose Bowl will be closed -- water-dropping helicopters are using the ponds there as a water source. 

Recommendations on burglaries

Carolyn Seitz of the Sheriff's Community Advisory Committee sent out this email to all newsgroups on the rash of burglaries:

Greetings to you all,

Many of you are aware, some more painfully than others, that we are experiencing a big spike in burglaries in Altadena - both residential and auto.

These burglaries are not isolated to Altadena.  They are occurring all over Southern California.

Many gangs seem to have burglary teams. 

You may recall that at the beginning of summer, one group of burglars was caught in La Crescenta, and they were tied to Altadena burglaries.  Within a few days, another burglary suspect was caught in the act in West Altadena.

Yesterday, two sets of burglars were caught outside of our area, all gang members.  It is likely that one of the sets of burglars will be tied to some of the burglaries in Altadena.  It is currently unknown whether the second set will be connected to any of the burglaries here.

Altadena residents are experiencing residential burglaries all over Altadena, and we all should pay attention to any groups of two or three or four people, could be men or women, walking the neighborhood, knocking on doors, looking for opportunities.  If there is no response at the door, they often head to the rear or side yard to looks for ways to gain entry.  Some will defeat security systems, and dogs are not a deterrent.

If someone inside the house answers, the burglars will often make up some story, about car trouble, or a lost dog or "looking for a friend who lives here". 

It was reported by one neighborhood in Central Altadena yesterday that someone gained entry by removing a window air conditioner.  In another neighborhood, the family burglarized indicated that entry was made through a window on one side of the house, but that the burglars had also opened a window and door on the rear, perhaps to exit quickly if necessary.

The most recent rash of auto breakins, also occurring all over Altadena, is a smash and grab, the vehicle window is broken and a visible GPS system is grabbed.  These breakins are occurring in the early morning hours, between midnight and 5 am.

In the residential breakins, the suspects often work in teams, with one or two canvassing for opportunity and others waiting in a car down the street, or around the corner.

If you see people walking in your neighborhood who are unknown to you, it's a good idea to just call the Altadena Sheriff's Station, describe what you're observing and the deputies will come out.  Please do not confront strangers yourself.  It is much better to let the deputies talk to them.  It may be that they have a legitimate reason for being there, but it's also possible that they do not.    Let the deputies sort it out.

It is also recommended that you park your cars in your garage if you have one.  Do not leave any valuables in your car, especially those things that are easily grabbed.  That includes portable GPS units, phones, MP3 players, handbags, wallets, coins, computers, or anything else that gives burglars an easy choice to make. 

When in doubt about anyone in your area, call the Sheriff's Station.   626 798 1131.

Stay vigilant, stay safe and don't make it easier on burglars and thieves.

All-American Wranglers at Farnsworth Park Sat.

The All American Wranglers will perform Sat., Aug. 29, as part of the Sheriff's Support Group of Altadena Summer Concert Series at Farnsworth Park, 7-9 PM.  Admission is free.

The All American Wranglers have performed for many special events, corporate functions, concerts, as well as five shows nightly at the Los Angeles County Fair.

Some of their Southern California clients include summer concerts for the cities of: Corona, Cerritos, Fontana, Brea, Calimesa, Claremont, Glendora, La Palma, San Dimas, Altadena, La Canada/Flintridge, Glendale, Huntington Park, San Pedro, Los Angeles, Whittier, Monrovia, La Verne, & Santa Clarita Valley.

WAPAC to send revised motion to county (let's see if they do!)

Michele Zack, who contributed the notes about last month's meeting of the West Altadena Project Area Committee which is supervising the development of Lincoln Crossing, shares with us her public comments at last night's meeting.  The WAPAC board told the staff to send a letter to the county containing their actual motion this time, rather than something the staff made up.  Zack's comments are after the jump.

More on burglaries

Town Council chair Gino Sund sent this letter out to the newsgroups, and we think it's worth sharing:

I do know that a swath of Altadena from the top of Lake to the Southeast border of Altadena seems to be targeted by a home burglary crew.  It is believed to be a street gang from Pasadena. 

They are operating in daylight hours and using the knock on the front door technique to determine if anyone is home.  If no one answers,  it is around the back to gain entry, if some one answers it is " my car needs water, does Bill live here, etc".    Usually they are on foot with a car or truck parked a block away, but some have been on bikes. 

If anyone has ANY suspicion about someone coming to your door call the Sheriff's station IMMEDIATELY.  Also,  if you do not want to answer the door, let the person calling know someone is in the house.  Otherwise they may come to the back and try to gain entry with you in the house.

Short takes

• Karin Bugge, the Altadenahiker, points us to some great pictures at the Altadena Stables site she maintains of the Girl Scouts and riding camps they've held over the summer.  Cute kids and ponies, can't beat it!
• The Skywatcher, Chris Considine, tells us that the International Space Station is now so large, you can not only see its structure, but you can see it in daylight.  Check the Heavens Above site for local flybys.
• Crown City News TV has a short feature on Rennaissance man Allan Wasserman -- actor, musician, securities broker, and Altadena Town Councilman.  They talk to him during a recent gig at Pinnocchio's with his band.
• Karen TenEyck alerts us to another probable legal scam making the rounds: an outfit called "Title Concepts Plus!!!" asks you to send $47.95 for a Declaration of Homestead, whatever that is, on official-looking letterhead. In small print they state they are not affliated with any federal, state or local entity.  Their website, interestingly (which we're not going to link here) has a Chicago skyline.

Altadena Library is looking for artists

Call to artists
“SHARE YOUR ART with THE COMMUNITY”
 
The Altadena Library District is seeking artists of all mediums to display artwork in our Community Room. All experience levels, individual artists, and collaborative teams are welcome.
 
Security/Anti-theft devices are available for framed artwork.
 
A secured display case is also available for smaller pieces, sculptures, collections, etc.
 

Application process:

    •    Available months for display: September – December 2009.
 
    •    Submit an application and photos of your work to the Community Room Reservation Office, using one of the options below.
 
The application is available on our website
www.altadenalibrary.org
From the home page choose Library Services and then Community Room
 
Mail or Drop-off:
Altadena Library District
Attn: Tina Wallin
600 E. Mariposa Street, Altadena, CA 91001
Email:
twallin@altadenalibrary.org
 
    •    The Altadena Library District reserves the right to decide what is appropriate for display in the presence of minors. The Library reserves the right to reject any part of the exhibit or to change the manner of display.
 
    •    Artists are chosen on a first come first serve basis.
 
    •    A waiver of liability will be required from each artist, which also includes a list of works for sale, including the value/cost. Pieces sold during the exhibit are to be marked by the artist.
 

President Streets faces burglary wave

PSN has a story about three burglaries in three hours in the President Streets neighborhood.  There have been eight burglaries there in the past month.  Keep your eyes open -- someone's pretty active who doesn't belong there!

Critter map update

View Critter Map in a larger map

--------

We've added a couple of recent bear sightings to what we now call our "Critter Map," and once we draw an icon of a mountain lion that doesn't look too much like a bear, we'll add those, too!

Send in your critter sightings to altadenablog @ gmail.com.

Simmons interview on Crown City News

Props to Crown City News for getting an interview with town councilman Herbert H. Simmons on his investigation by town council.  Not too informative, but worth watching for those following at home.

Boneheads on the loose at Cobb Estate

Janette Williams of PSN writes in this morning's paper that six Audobon Society interpretive signs, installed 18 months ago on the Cobb Estate at a cost of $11,000, have instead become magnets for vandalism -- excuse us, canvases for graffiti art.  Now, as someone once cautioned us, "there is actually a history to the role that graffiti art plays in our culture, and that in some quarters it IS considered art" -- apparently people are upset, anyway.  Michele Zack makes a good point in the story that the signs probably weren't well-thought-out, anyway -- a sad but true commentary on the state of things.

Short takes

• Altadenan Kenny Yapkowitz (which is our Name of the Day) and his band, "... and the Leasebreakers" (yes, the ellipsis is part of it) recently accompanied a silent film as part of a fundraiser for William S. Hart Park in Newhall.  Kenny's on banjo, young Fionn (second grade at St. Mark's School) was off playing with the deer in the park rather than posing for the picture -- Kenny says that Fionn, who plays plays  jug, washboard, train whistle, spoons and slide whistle, has instruments that "come with free factory tuning."
• Bob Stane of Coffee Gallery Backstage says: "Mark Lewis is a musician, composer, storyteller, actor, improv artist, and educator who holds the somewhat unusual belief that children are intelligent beings. They do not wish to be condescended to, nor are they asking to be hyperstimulated into a frenzy. Kids react favorably to simple, fun, elemental songs without a lot of overproduction hoo-ha. They like stories that are not only funny but that make them use their brains a little bit too. They don’t want to be told what to hear/feel/think because they love using their expansive imaginations to fill in all the blanks themselves…."  Mark is appearing at the Coffee Gallery Backstage in a special children's concert at 11 AM Sun.  Tickets $8.
• Bob Klomberg of the Sheriff's Support group points us to John Levy's website, which has a story and pictures of last week's tribute to the jazz legend at the Farnsworth Park concert series.
• Via the Altadena Women's Network, congratulations are due to Altadenan Lorna Miller, executive director of Office for Creative Connections, who is being honored by El Centro de Acción Social at their annual Hope Through Education gala on October 19.

Sheriffs looking for burglary suspect

Chopper is orbiting around Santa Rosa and Calavaras tonight, 10:20 PM -- deputies are looking for a burglary suspect.  If you're in the neighborhood, they recommend you lock your doors and if you see anybody suspicious, dial 911.

Altadena Heritage efficient irrigation workshop Aug. 29

From Michele Zack, we receive word that Altadena Heritage is holding a morning of presentations and practicum on making every precious drop of water count. 

Zack will speak on "Eaton's Water: Altadena's first irrigation system."  Tom Poplin of Horizon Landscaping will talk about irrigation systems, water-saving landscape practices, and retrofitting existing systems for efficient irrigation.  J. Harold Mitchell of Irrigation and Landscape Supplies will answer all your questions.

In addition, attendees will critique the irrigation system at the Altadena Community Center, where the event is being held.  9-11 AM on Sat., Aug. 29, free to Altadena Heritage members, and $5 suggested donation for non-members.  Please RSVP at (626) 797-0054 or altadenaheritage@earthlink.net

Drug incident on Pepper Drive

Newsgroup chatter says there was a drug arrest on the 1900 block of Pepper Dr., about 3:30 this afternoon.  Sheriff's station says there was a citation given for marijuana use at that time, but don't have any details.

Mt. Wilson Toll Road to re-open this weekend

It's been a long slog since the rains of '05, but after several months of work, the Mt. Wilson Toll Road is slated to re-open this weekend.

LATimes has two artices:  one here, a newsy article, and one here, more of a hiker's perspective.  And yes, the Pinecrest Gate is to be unlocked, too.  Good news all around!

150,000

That's the total number of page views we have racked up as of today.  Thank you to all of our advertisers, to our wonderful correspondents (including Michele Zack, Chris Considine, and Bill Westphal, who should really be on staff, if we had a staff!  Also Monica Hubbard, who knows whatever we don't, and the great staff at the Altadena Library).  And thanks especially to you, our readers, who have helped make Altadenablog a vital part of this wonderful, strange, interesting, and creative community where we live.  We love this work.  We love Altadena.

Danny's Farm looking for members

Danny's Farm, one of our favorite places, is launching a membership drive. Click on the graphics for more details.

Altadena Foothills Conservancy needs help for Rubio Canyon purchase

Just got this note, updating this story:

Dear Friends:

We are excited to report that in two short weeks we are closing in on our fund-raising goal to finalize the acquisition and preservation of 20 key acres of undeveloped land in Rubio Canyon.   WE STILL NEED YOUR HELP TO MAKE THIS DREAM COME TRUE!  

If you have not donated yet, could you contribute now?   If you have donated, would you consider increasing your gift?   WE FACE THE CRITICAL DEADLINE OF AUGUST 25TH TO CLOSE THIS DEAL.  

Your generous gift NOW will make the difference!!!   You can send a check to AFC, P.O. Box 3, Altadena, CA 91003-0003 or go to our website and use your credit card. Please note that we are still in the process of changing all of our accounts and thus you can still make contributions to Altadena Foothills Conservancy. Our website is:

http://www.altadenafoothills.org/ or

http://www.arroyosandfoothills.org/

Thank you so much for your support,
Nancy Steele
President

PS: We appreciate your forwarding this message on to others you may know who could support this important land preservation effort.  

Teens: the Altadena Library needs you!

The Altadena Library's teen program celebrated a great summer (see Heather Firchow's blog here), and now they're planning for the next year -- and this is where you come in:

Your Library Needs You! Get Active @ Your Library.

Join the 2009-2010 ALD Teen Advisory Committee and:

• Plan library programs and events for teens and tweens
• Recommend books, CDs and other materials for the library to purchase
• Earn community service hours for school
• Write book, CD and movie review
• Contribute to the teen website

TAC Meetings are held once a month at the Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa. Pick up an application at the Reference desk at the Altadena Library.  Application deadline:  Wed., Sept. 9, 2009

Reminder: we have a community calendar

Yes we do!  If you have an event in town, send us the details and we'll put it in the calendar for all to see!

Food co-op meetings coming up

Touched base with Patrick Reagan, one of the organizers of a food co-op in Altadena.  Lots of progress underway.

For one thing, they now have a not-carved-in-stone name: Arroyo Food Co-op, which reflects the interest they've gathered from Pasadena, Eagle Rock, and other communities.  For another, they have a few critical meetings coming up -- save the dates:

Sept. 5, 7:30 PM, a co-op social at Yoga House, 11 W. State St., Pasadena.

Oct. 7, 7:30 PM, social at the Zane Grey Estate.

Oct. 10: Critical community meeting at the Altadena Community Center, where they say "If you can come to only one of our events, this is the one.  Your attendance will help us gauge the degree of community support we have for bringing the co-op to our area.  We need your feedback."

Short takes

• President's Streets' computer maven Steve Bass shares a series of photos titled simply "Never Underestimate the Determination of a Mother."  The dog's face at the end is priceless.
• Her royal rawness Revell Revati will be holding a four week course in the area starting Sept. 2, "Tap Into Your Ideal Weight."  Seating is limited to ten people, it's only $77, details at her website, www.BodaciousLiving.com/IdealWeight.
• The Kogi Korean Barbecue taco truck was in town over the weekend for the Altadena Comedy Festival. Daniel Siegal reviews it for Eat LA, and agrees with us that waiting 90 minutes in line for a taco, no matter how good, is asking for a lot ...

Weekendin'

A more subdued, dog days weekend compared to last week.  All events are free unless otherwise noted.

Fri., Aug. 21

• Fun Flick Friday at the Main Library: 17 Again, rated PG-13.  Starts 3:30 PM.
• Open Mic night, spoken word at Farnsworth Park, 7 PM.
• Artistry of the Guitar at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 8 PM, $20.

Sat., Aug. 22

• Bulgarini Gelato's Italian dinner and a movie series continues.  Dinner starts at 8 ($12), a great Italian movie is shown in the courtyard at 8:45 (free and open to all), gelateria open before, during, and after the film.  This week: Like Water for Chocolate (which is actually a Mexican film!)
• Sligo Rags at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 8 PM, $18.

Probably Mulder and Scully ...

One more before bed: a reader wonders:

 ...why a marked FBI truck was being (apparently) towed on Mariposa tonight near
Santa Rosa, while an unmarked (we think) old police cruiser crammed with guys
went up Santa Rose near the Theosophy institute, shining a high-powered light
into the bushes outside the gate?

Happened about 9 PM tonight.  We don't know what was going on, but it definitely sounds like X-Files territory!

Bear, mountain lion sighted Wed. morning

The animals are out in force these days ...

Revvell Revati reports that she was walking on Morsley Wednesday morning, and a passerby warned her of a bear on Braeburn.  She opted not to take a look for herself!

And Robyn Puntch on the 300 block of West Poppyfield Dr. says:

Thought you and your readers might like to know that there was a huge mountain lion roaming the neighborhood early [Wed.] morning.  I saw it in my backyard at 1:45 a.m. ...  It stayed about half an hour (after I spotted it) before climbing over my back fence.  I would estimate that it was over 6 feet long, not counting the tail.

Lincoln Crossing: Staff ignores board's decision, tells county a different story

When we last looked at the soap opera/business development we call Altadena Lincoln Crossing, outgoing Altadena Town Council member Michele Zack served as the council's rep on the West Altadena Project Area Committee (WAPAC).  When Zack left the council in July, she was replaced by councilman Gene Campbell.  WAPAC passed a motion to send a letter to the Los Angeles County Community Development Commission (CDC), supporting the West Altadena Development Corporation's (WAD-C) effort to end its business marriage to partner Dorn Platz, the developer who has a laundry list of default actions, in order to continue developing Lincoln Crossing.

Well, Zack attended the July 22 meeting as Jane Citizen, and then the fun started.  She filed this report with the town council, and shared it with us, after the jump:

"The History Man" at Altadena Junction Aug. 29

Lance Anderson's performance space, Altadena Junction, starts its new season with ”The History Man,” a new one act play by local storytelling stalwart Leslie Perry, as well as other stories and poems featuring Perry and Finn Carter.

The performance is at Altadena Junction, 2524 & 2526 El Molino, on Sat., Aug. 29, 8-10 PM.  For more information, call 626.791.8586.

Town council will launch ethics investigaton

We were not able to attend tonight's meeting, but thanks to reports from folks on the ground, we learned as expected that the Altadena Town Council will form a committee to investigate charges and determine if there has been an ethical violation by a council member.  (The council member is not named, but is expected to be Herbert H. Simmons, CT 4602).  Chair Gino Sund said that there would be no further comment until the investigation is completed.

During public comment, several speakers expressed support for Simmons' student and teacher of the month initiatives.

Apologies

... to our readers who are looking for our usual Tues. night/Wed. morning rundown of the Town Council meeting.  We have a medical situation and won't be able to attend, but we'll talk to people who were there and get the rundown when we have a chance.

Yep -- that was an earthquake!

About 3:58 PM, 2.9 Richter, epicenter about 3 mi. north of La Canada.  USGS details here.

Back-to-school crafts at the Library, Aug. 25, 2-4 PM.

Is it that time already?  Bring your notebooks or other school items to decorate, or make your own pencil box, notepads, calendars and more to get ready for school.  Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa, 2-4 PM on Tues., Aug. 25.