altadenablog

Being prepared

About 30 people attended tonight's emergency preparedness meeting at the Community Center, to get an overview of the kinds of emergencies we can expect and prepare for.

Top: Dep. Wilson Lee gives a briefing on earthquake preparedness.

Bottom: Sheriff's Community Advisory Council member Carolyn Seitz receives an award -- a nifty leather binder -- for her work on community safety.

Lee also said that 60 people were scheduled to attend CERT training Oct. 13-17, and all spaces were taken. However, there is a waiting list, which you can get on by calling (323) 526-5015.

Photos: who else but Bill Westphal?

UPDATE 11 PM: Supv. Antonovich's office just released the website address for the multi-agency response team he announced Tuesday. Click here.

Alleged burglars busted

The inimitable C. Jake has sent this to the newsgroups (and to us):

I just heard from Captain Blow at the Altadena Sheriff Station that 2 men have been arrested [this afternoon] attempting to break into a home on New York Drive.

They knocked on a door with a flyer of a lost cat saying they were looking for their cat. Luckily the homeowners were:  (1) at home (2) knew the owners of the cat and knew these guys had nothing to do with the cat owners (3) called the station immediately (4) had a security camera showing the 2nd guy trying to pry open a window.  This makes a good case!

 

Again, the Captain wants everyone to know - if there is anyone suspicious knocking on the door or in your neighborhood, CALL THE STATION @ 626-798-1131 and report it.  Best if you ask for the watch commander to get immediate action.

We have the station number programmed into our phone and a sticker on each phone with the number, suggest you consider the same.

UPDATE 10 PM: Talked to Capt. Blow at the emergency preparedness meeting, and he said he had two in custody: one juvenile, and one who turned 18 in August.

Emergency preparedness meeting tonight @ Community Center

Don't forget that the Altadena Sheriff's Station will host a meeting on emergency preparedness tonight at the Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Dr., starting at 7 PM.

Thomas named president of county human relations commission

Altadena town councilmember Dr. Sandra Thomas, founder and CEO of the Quality of Life Center, was elected the first black woman president of the Los Angeles County Commission on Human Relations.  PSN has the details.

Be nice to the new girl ...

Sun Valley Hills is Susan Lustig's new website for the Sun Valley area, but it's a great compendium of emergency and otherwise good-to-know information applicable to anybody in the hills of Southern California.  Check it out!

Christmas Tree Lane seeks vendors for lighting festival

The Christmas Tree Lane Association is planning a little something extra for the 89th annual tree lighting ceremony Dec. 12: an arts & crafts festival in the parking lot of the Altadena Library, 600 E. Mariposa, from 2-6 PM, followed by the lighting ceremony.  Any non-food vendor who wants to take part is welcome.  For more information, check out their website.

Star party Sat. @ Eaton Canyon

Eaton Canyon Nature Center's final Twilight Program of 2009 will be on Sat, Oct. 3 at 7 PM, and it's a good one: Bonnie Burratti of JPL will speak about the recent mission to Pluto (still a planet, we say!) as well as a "Star Party" following her speech with telescopes set up to view the evening sky.

Art on Palm Oct. 10

Local artists and artisans will display their latest creations in a secluded private canyon garden at Art on Palm, Fall 2009, Sat., Oct. 10, 9:30 AM – 5 PM. at 1419 E. Palm Street, Altadena.

The one-day-only show and sale features ceramics, collage, drawings, fabric, glass, jewelry, paintings, photography and woodcarvings.  Participating artists include: Stephani Anderson, Jane Asari, Erica Batchelder, Janet Chico, Catherine M. S. Cowles, Ellen Dinerman, Mary Jane Elgin, Kaylie James Wilson, Bill Haskell, Lynn Hendricks, Jim Heuston, Stephen Johnson, Beverly Jones, Susan Kromka, Elizabeth Manak, Katherine Nakazono, Cathy Reichel-Clark, Detra Prete, Anne Sears, Maryrose Smyth, Dana Sue Miller, Betsy Miller, Di Yamamoto Skowron, Susan Spinks, Kathleen Swaydan, Bruce Wilson, Lys Wilcox,  Stephen Woodruff, Anna Vosburg, Hitomi Yamamuro, and Lucia Yang.Admission and parking are free. Jones Coffee Roasters will offer coffee and light refreshments for sale.

Encircled by ancient oaks, the rustic canyon setting for Art on Palm is a restorative venue for guests and a stunning backdrop for the artists’ works.

This is the 11th fine arts and crafts show.  According to the event’s co-producer Mary Jane Elgin “This event benefits everyone. It brings talented artists and their finely crafted works to a discerning and appreciative clientele in a lovely setting.”

Art on Palm, Fall 2009 also benefits the Fisher House Foundation.  The artists donate a portion of their sales to this non-profit organization that provides humanitarian support for wounded military personnel and their families.  For more information about Fisher House Foundation, please visit www.fisherhouse.org.

Information: 626-827-7870

Historically Black College Night Oct. 8 @ Loma Alta Park

Loma Alta Park (3330 N. Lincoln) will host Black College Night on Thurs., Oct. 8, from 6-9 PM.

Learn more about Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), speak to recent HBCU alumni from California, receive scholarship and financial aid information, and find out how to attend a HBCU tour.

There will also be a performance by the Steppers of Beta Omega Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

ISS flyby tonight

... starts about 6:50 PM in the northwest, heading southeast.  (Thx to the Skywatcher!)

Hail Sumiyasu, Yale Sumiyasu!

Altadenan (and junior goalkeeper for Yale's soccer club) Ayana Sumiyasu is the Ivy League Player of the Week. (More here).

Chamber mixer at Health Advantage Oct. 1, 5:30 PM

The monthly Altadena Chamber of Commerce mixer will be held this Thurs., Oct. 1, from 5:30-7:30 PM at Health Advantage, 1450 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena (parking in rear).   Admission $5 members,  $7 guests, beer, Wine, water & soda available for purchase. Bring a raffle prize and get free commercial time!

After the fire: plants, animals, people, blogs

(Pictured: caught on the road by the Altadenablog Blackberry, an Angeles National Forest Support truck with a sticker commemorating firefighters Ted Hall and Arnie Quinones, who died fighting the Station Fire)

LA Times has two post-Station Fire stories today: Julie Cart looks at how the forest will recover; and Paul Pringle looks at resident disgust about how the fire was handled following the LA Times' Sunday story.

And: Angeles Rising, a post-fire blog of meetings, forest conditions, etc.

Supervisor Antonvich's office also sent out the following press release:

ANTONOVICH INITIATES MULTI-AGENCY RESPONSE TEAM TO PREPARE FIRE-IMPACTED COMMUNITIES FROM MUDSLIDE DAMAGE
To inform residents in fire-damaged areas on the County’s efforts to reduce the impact of mudslides and erosion damage, Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich has created a multi-agency program (C.A.R.E.) and a toll free number (800-214-4020) to protect life and property in the upcoming rainy months.

The CARE (Coordinated Agency Recovery Effort) program will include regular updates and  bulletins, technical assistance for residents on constructing mudslide diversions, a “one-stop” website with fire recovery and storm preparation information, public service announcements, and a speaker’s bureau for community meetings. 

Open comments Monday

... where will you take us today?

Shots fired on Woodbury Sat. night

Got a note from a neighbor wondering about gunshots about midnight Saturday/Sunday on Woodbury east of Fair Oaks:

We heard tires screeching and 6 shots fired, followed 10 mins later by arriving paramedics, police and the helicopter.

According to the sheriff's station, they can't comment because it's a continuing investigation -- but shots were fired, shell casings recovered, and nobody was hit (sending out the ambulance is standard procedure, the deputy said).   Guess that's as much as we'll get right now.

Kazu Kibuishi at the Library Fri.

The Friends of the Altadena Library is proud to present author, artist and Eisner Award Nominee Kazu Kibuishi.

Kazu will be on hand to sign and discuss his new book AMULET 2: THE STONEKEEPER’S CURSE. Kazu will also discuss his writing and illustrating process, the creation of the AMULET series and his other award-winning illustrated titles.

Please join us for this wonderful event in the Community Room of the Altadena Library District at the Main Library, located at 600 E. Mariposa Street, Altadena, CA 91001.

Station Fire: little miscalculations add up to disaster

The LA Times (our new BFF) front-pages a story about miscalculations about the Station Fire -- apparently early on nobody expected it to get as big as it did, so not all possible resources were deployed.  A few lessons were learned and some procedural changes will be made -- but it's frustrating how close it was to not being a major fire at all!

Hahamongna Watershed meeting Tues., Sept. 29

From Mary Barrie of Friends of Hahamongna:

Hahamongna Watershed Park Advisory Committee Meeting

Tuesday, September 29, 2009 at 6 p.m.
La Casita del Arroyo
177 S. Arroyo Blvd
Pasadena
 
The Hahamongna Advisory Committee will consider recommendations on the adoption of the Annex Plan which has undergone a considerable odyssey since it was brought before the Committee in May of this year.  It has gone through two revisions and the most controversial aspect of the plan, the 50 then 30 foot recreational corridor, has gone through at least four variations.  From meeting to meeting, it was hard to keep track of what the plan was.  In fact, even now a final draft version of the Plan is not yet available for the Hahamongna Advisory Committee or the community to review. 
 

On its journey, the plan has gone before the Transportation Advisory Commission, the Planning Commission, and the Design Commission, all of whom rejected the concept of a recreational corridor which could become a road at a later date.  These Commissions supported the concept of separating trail users to different locations since this allowed the corridor footprint to shrink from its original 50 foot width. 

Auto accident, Santa Rosa and Woodbury

Caught this about 4:20 PM.  Ambulance was on scene. Note the car's bumper in left foreground.

More crime: the latest scams

A report from a resident of Woodglen Lane to the newsgroups, from yesterday (Friday):

About 10 minutes ago my doorbell rang. I did not answer. Two men came into the backyard. Both were about 5'9". One was heavyset and the other medium build. The medium build wore a blue t-shirt with the word O'neill on the front. They went away and then the medium build guy came back and peered in the french door. I waved my cane at him and he opened the door and asked if I wanted to sell the stationwagon in the driveway. I got a phone number and the name "James." I immediately called the police. I did not see the car they drove away in.

As someone pointed out, it's highly unlikely people are trolling the streets (particularly in a cul-de-sac, as the resident lives on) looking for station wagons for sale.

The other comes in a note from Town Council chair Gino Sund:

If we don't have enough to worry about, yesterday I got a report from residents on the West side of town that another game is afoot.  They report that a group of unknown size (two or more) apparently have some sort of equipment that will allow them to open automatic garage doors. Two suspects have been sighted and a possible licenses plate has been identified.  I will be talking to the station on Monday to see if there is any more information. 

 

Altadena crime: comparison 2007-2008

Marge Nichols has provided a helpful breakdown of Altadena's share in the LA County Sheriff's Dept.'s 2008 statistics, which compare 2007 to 2008.

Of course, the Sept. 21 press conference report from the LA Times  -- which included the rise in crime in Altadena -- compared 2008 and 2009 year-to-date stats, , that is, until September of each year -- Marge's stats appear to be based on year end.  Keep that all in mind!

Here's a summary of Altadena crime data and links to some relevant pages of the 2008 Sheriff's Dept report.  While violent crime reports were lower than 2007, less serious offenses drove up the total reported in the Times.

 

• Violent crime* in Altadena is modest compared to many other communities.

          2008 rates for some communities in our Sheriff's Department Region include:

• Altadena                  197
• Crescenta Valley        211 
• Lancaster                370
• Palmdale                 309
• Temple Stn.             208 (Duarte, Rosemead, Temple City, etc.)              

• Altadena's violent crime rate actually declined, from 883 in 2007 to 857 in 2008

• Less serious Part II** crimes rose from 1,406 in 2007 to 1,949 in 2008.  The largest increases were in vehicle incidents, narcotics and vandalism.

• 7% of stolen property was recovered in 2008, compared with 14% in 2007

2008 Arrests:  1,883 adults and 104 juveniles were arrested in 2008
 
2008 Type of Crimes:

• Leading violent crimes were larceny theft, 383; burglary, 222; and assault, 109.
• Leading Part II reports were 842 vehicle incidents, 345 narcotics, 183 fraud or NSF check, 174 vandalism.

Definitions:
*Violent (Part I) crimes include homicide, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, larceny theft, grand theft auto and arson.
**Less serious (Part II) crimes include forgery, fraud/NSF check, narcotics, vehicle incidents, vandalism and many other offenses.
 
Links for more information:

Comparative Crime Rate Field Operations I (northern LA County stations)

http://www.lasd.org/sites/yir9600/yir2008/18.pdf  

Altadena Station summary (major crimes reported)

http://www.lasd.org/sites/yir9600/yir2008/47.pdf   

Altadena Station detail (major and less serious crimes reported; adult/juvenile arrests)

http://www.lasd.org/sites/yir9600/yir2008/48.pdf   

Site for viewing map of crimes reported in a user-specified area (to look up crimes in the vicinity of an address)

http://www.lasd.org/sites/CAASS/index.html    

Sheriff''s Department home page  http://www.lasd.org/

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The farm team: Cathy Gott and Zorthian work on a dream

You can’t stop Cathy Gott when she puts her mind to something.  And now she has her mind set on creating a place in Altadena for autistic and other developmentally challenged adults -- on an historic and legendary piece of Altadena property.

Cathy and her husband, former Dodger pitcher Jim Gott, have two sons with autism, but didn’t let that slow them down.  In 1996, they founded Education Spectrum , which provides innovative programs for individuals with autism and related disorders.   In 2007, they started Danny’s Farm, a petting zoo and events facility at 3064 1/2 Ridgeview Drive, a place for all kinds of kids but with a special place for special needs children.  Young people with developmental disabilities worked on Danny’s Farm staff, learning to care for the animals and help with the birthday parties and other events that occurred there.

(Pictured: Cathy Gott at the gate to lower Zorthian Ranch, where she hopes to build the farm.)

But, says Cathy, Danny’s Farm has been a victim of its own success.  The Gotts rented the space from the Altadena Stables next door, but it has proven so successful that it’s earned the wrath of some neighbors who complained about all the cars parking in the neighborhood.

Weekend open comments

What do you want to talk about?

(Pictured: hauling the 100-in. reflector up the Mt. Wilson Toll Road to the observatory, c. 1917)

And now, the L.A. Times

A couple of hours of interviews and finding a charred place in the hills to take a picture ... that's our glamorous life.  This'll be in your TImes tomorrow. Thank you, Jim -- it's a good piece!

UPDATE 9/25 1:30 PM:  Frank Giradot, one of our favorite reporters at the Star-News, also has very kind words to say today.

Charles White Park to receive outdoor fitness zone

From the office of Supv.  Mike Antonovich:

A new outdoor fitness zone will be installed at Charles White Park, 77 Mountain View Street in Altadena, announced Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich.

At a cost of $45,000, provided through a MetLife Grant to Los Angeles County Parks, the fitness zone is an easy-to-use outdoor gym with equipment that provides strength training, flexibility and cardio-vascular workouts.  The equipment is weather proof and appropriate for all ages.  The equipment will complement and add diversity to the sports activities, aerobic and dance classes and nutritional and cooking programs that are available at many County parks.
 

Handling gangs "The Pasadena Way"

Thought this was worth sharing, in today's Pasadena Weekly: a piece by Pasadena Police Chief Bernard Melekian on why the streets DIDN'T run red with blood this summer, as predicted, in his town.  Since we're in Pasadena's penumbra, it bears looking at.

Deputies raid five houses, net two suspects in home invasion robbery

PSN has sketchy details of a morning raid of five houses, four in Altadena, that netted two suspects in the robbery of an elderly woman in June:

All five homes, four of them in Altadena, are connected to the Altadena Denver Lanes, an "offshoot" of the Pasadena Denver Lane Bloods gang, authorities said. The Pasadena Police Department assisted in the searches.

A male suspect was taken, and a female suspect was arrested in a home in Los Angeles, the story says.

UPDATE 10 PM: PSN has more details & a photo of the operation.  Looks like PSN was invited to see the show. That's OK, we just LIVE HERE!

Eaton Canyon graffiti: improving, but still ...

Jeremiah Small at the Stonhill News blog gives a report on graffiti removal in Eaton Canyon.  But, judging by the group he met on the way up (who takes Krylon to a picnic?) it's a continuing problem.

Bearwatch: Tanoble and Alta Crest

Sighted early Wednesday morning.  Victims: some trash cans.  Another addition to the critter map.

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View Critter Map in a larger map

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PCC board elections warming up

PSN has a piece from Emma Gallegos on the race for the Pasadena City College board Nov. 3.  The District 1 seat, representing La Cañada Flintridge, western Altadena and western Pasadena, is held by Geoffrey Baum, who is facing off against challenger Steven Gibson.  District 3 represents northwest Pasadena and Altadena, and is held by Connie Rey Castro, who is being challenged by Berlinda Brown.

7 steps to gainful employment workshop @ Library, Oct. 19

The Friends of the Altadena Library present a workshop, "How to Thrive During the Changing Times:  Seven Steps to Being Gainfully Employed."

Business Librarian Jeff Lambert will be on hand to facilitate this extremely useful and informative workshop. Mr. Lambert will address topics such as filing an online application for unemployment from the California Employment Development Department (EDD), setting up a free email account, job searching and interviewing skills, resumes and cover letters, and utilizing various career resources and job listings.

Please join us for this timely workshop on Monday, October 19, @ 7 PM in the Community Room of the Altadena Library District at the Main Library, located at 600 E. Mariposa Street, Altadena, CA 91001.

For more information go to: www.altadenalibrary.org
 

Welcome sponsors: Brio Spa, Salon, & Cafe: service, sandwiches, & sangria!

Altadenablog welcomes our new sponsors: Brio Spa & Salon and Brio Cafe in their recently spiffed-up location at 2003 and 2009 Lake Ave.

A few years ago,  Nick Flores was working as an information technology professional, a network engineer and business analyst.  Now, he's crafting healthy sandwiches in the cafe while his co-owner, wife Kaye, pampers clients at the spa next door.  And, once a month, they move the spa equipment to the side and throw a wine tasting with entertainment -- as they will this Saturday.  Local favorites the Bohemian Soul Rustlers will be performing their unique take on folk music as Brio and La Luna Negra present a "Sangria-Fest", starting at 8 PM.  "We have a lot of fun entertaining and putting on events," Nick said.  "It gives us a chance to let our hair down and have a good time with people."

Kaye takes great pride in the calm, healing atmosphere of the salon, which provides a full range of services: pedicures, manicures, nail treatments, facials for men and women, waxing, and a full range of massage services (deep tissue/Swedish, hot stone, shiatsu, reflexology, and much more).

Everything at the spa keeps the client's comfort in mind: "We provide a clean and protected environment for all of our clients to enjoy," Kaye says.  Everything from clean sheets to sanitized equipment keeps the customer in mind, and their trained staff concentrates on providing the best service to the client.

It's actually a return to the spa: they started Brio in 2005 at the location, moved away, and moved back in again after the buildings were recently renovated.  SInce the renovations included a cafe space, they opened an eatery where Nick provides thick, healthy gourmet sandwiches and other treats.

They also like to share the space with the creative community, not only in providing a performance area for the wine tastings, but also showcasing the work of local artists on their walls.

Come join them this weekend for sangria and the Bohemian Soul Rustlers, or any day from 10 AM - 7 PM for pampering, sandwiches, or some combination of both!

Pictured: top, from left to right: Spa staff Tasarah, Gabby (seated)Jeff, co-owner Kaye Flores, Gina, and Rubia (seated).  Bottom: Nick Flores in the cafe.

Weekendin'

All events are free unless otherwise noted.

Thursday, Sept. 24

• Altadena's Eddie King directs "The Andersonville Trial,"  Thurs.-Sat. at 8 PM and Sun. at 2 and 7:30 PM at the Forum at All Saints Church, 132 E. Euclid, Pasadena. Suggested donation is $10, going toward the Peace & Justice ministry at All Saints.

Friday, Sept. 25

• Altadena Library's Friday Fun Flick: "The Battle for Terra," 3:30-5:30 PM at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa.

Saturday, Sept. 26

• The Altadena NAACP health fair, 10 AM-4 PM, at the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Dr. There will also be panels and presentations on Alzeheimer's disease (10 AM), kidney disease and transplant presentations (12 PM), and AIDS/HIV (2 PM).
• AND, the Altadena Senior Center, 540 E. Mariposa, is also having a health fair, from 9 AM-noon, in partnership with Forest Lawn Memorial Parks and Mortuaries.  Many service providers and vendors who cater to the senior community will be present.  Free health screenings, giveaways, and more will be provided to attendees.  A complimentary continental breakfast will be offered to the first 100 attendees.  Seniors and caregivers are invited!  Admission is free.  For more information, contact Michelle Harris or Kathryn Garnett-Thompson at (626) 575-0505.
• Play It Safe Emergency Expo at Verdugo Hills Hospital, 1812 Verdugo Rd., Glendale, 10 AM-3 PM.
• Two events at the Altadena Library: At 10 AM, Join us for Saturday Family Storytime: stories, songs, and fingerplays followed by a Scholastic film adaptation of an award-winning, classic children’s picture book.  Appropriate for children ages 2-8 years and their families. At 11 AM, read to Pearl, a rescued poodle, as part of Barks and Books.
• Please join the Covert Potters for a fun-filled afternoon at Farnsworth Park from 1-4 PM. For $40, you get a delicious meal and your choice of ceramic plate on which to pile the food high.  When you are done eating, you get to take the plate with you to enjoy for years to come.  Each additional plate is $20 on the day of the event. Reservations requested:  www.platepicnic.com.
• Brio Spa & Cafe with La Luna Negra are holding a "Sangria-Fest" at the spa, 2003 & 2009 N. Lake Ave. starting at 8 PM. ($20 donation, can pay at the door, but reservations are recommended: 626-296-9044).  Local faves The Bohemian Soul Rustlers will provide music.  Relax & enjoy!

Sunday, Sept. 27

• Storytelling Jam at Altadena Junction, 2524 & 2526 El Molino Ave., 7-8:30 AM.   An evening of unique performers blending storytelling and music in an intimate setting. $10 Cover. RSVP Required. (626) 791-8586

Monday, Sept. 28

• Charles White Park meeting at Farnsworth Park: The second community meeting to discuss future improvements to Charles White Park will be held Mon. Sept. 28, at Farnworth Park, 7 PM.  The meeting is sponsored by Congressman Adam Schiff and the LA County Dept. of Parks and Recreation.  For more information, contact Al Evans at 661-510-4149.

Mt. Wilson toll road: accessible at last, just not open!

Simon Burrow has been tracking the progress on the re-opening of the Mt. Wilson Toll Road, which accelerated during the Station Fire, succinctly:

Five years of obstructionism, lack of will, bureaucracy and negative thinking were overcome in a week by the immediate need to fight a fire.

Great pictures and a story at Simons' Mt. Wilson Tollroad website.

Great ShakeOut II: it's coming Oct. 15!

At 10:15 a.m. on October 15, 2009, millions of Californians will “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” in The Great California ShakeOut, the largest earthquake drill ever!

Now is the best time to register, so that you have time to plan your drill. If you participated in the 2008 drill, we hope that you will register again to practice how to be safe during earthquakes, improve your disaster plans, and get prepared. To see which organizations are already participating in your area, visit your county’s web page on www.ShakeOut.org.

Over 5.4 million southern Californians participated in the 2008 ShakeOut. As a statewide drill in 2009, this number could be doubled! But we can only count you as a part of the ShakeOut if you register at www.shakeout.org/register. As of July 15th, nearly 2.7 million participants are registered statewide.

There are many ways to participate in the ShakeOut in 2009. At the least, plan a "drop, cover, and hold on" drill involving everyone in your organization or business. Or you can exercise your full emergency plan. The updated ShakeOut.org is the central source of information for how to participate, regional earthquake hazards, and local events, news, and participant lists for all California counties.

Everyone can participate!  Individuals, families, businesses, schools, government agencies and organizations are all invited to register. Your involvement in the ShakeOut insprires many others to register and hold their own drills. Please encourage others to follow your lead.

If you were a registered participant in 2008, you can log in with your access code and simply update your information. You can request your access code if you have forgotten it.

Register today at ShakeOut.org! 
 

Peace thru music at PasNaz Sat. night benefits Human Relations Commission

Doing a favor for our Pasadena friends:  The Pasadena Human Relations Commission is holding its annual "Peace through Music Concert" this Sat, 7 PM at  First Church of the Nazarene, 3700 E. Sierra Madre Boulevard, Pasadena.  Tickets are $10, and proceeds go to support the Commission's work with area youth. The performance is being dedicated to the Pasadena Unified School District and its musical and performing arts programs.

For further information call Human Relations Commission staff, Sonya Amos at 626-744-4234, Commissioner Terrie Allen at 626-796-6878 or Co-Chair Michelle Bailey at 626-644-0701.

Major crimes down -- except in Altadena

Missed this yesterday, but the LA County Sheriff's Dept. boasted of decreases in major crimes so far this year.  One exception: Altadena, where major crimes increased by 9.3%.  Robert Winton of the LA Times has the story.

We'll be back

Just a lot of things going on, many of which will translate to stories!  Check back here later today for a massive update!

Firefighters: the hotness

Our friend Petrea Burchard of Pasadena Daily Photo has a great photo spread and equally great essay on the daring young men who fight our fires.  She took a series of shots of firefighters at rest at the gates to the Cobb Estate, and ladies, it's worth your while to look!

"Battle for Terra" is Library's Friday Fun Flick

The Altadena Library's "Fun Flick Friday" continues this Friday with "The Battle for Terra," rated PG.  Admission is free, and the show starts at 3:30.

Commission on Women launches "Survival Guide"

The Pasadena Commission on the Status of Women is holding a 'do next week, Tues. Sept. 29, 6-8 PM, to mark the launch of its 2009-2010 Survival Guide.  The Guide is a directory of local Pasadena area agencies and organizations that can provide various kinds of help and support in times of need, with a focus on women and families.

Mistress of ceremonies is Inger Miller, Altadena business owner and Chamber member.  Location is the Rose Bowl Locker Room, parking lot F.  For more information, call 626-744-6940.

(thx Monica!)

Storytelling Jam at Altadena Junction this Sunday

Altadena Junction proudly presents...

Storytelling Jam (spoken word and music)

An evening of unique performers blending storytelling and music in an intimate setting.

Featuring Julio Martinez, Geoffrey Leigh Tozer and Beverly Mickins. Hosted by Lance Anderson.

About The Performers:
Julio Martinez is the weekly host of KPFK Radio’s Arts in Review, is a theatre critic for Daily Variety and Features Editor of Latin Heat Magazine where he also contributes a weekly TeleVision column. Formerly, he performed as a guitarist for singers Al Jarreau, Sarah Vaughn and others.... Geoffrey Leigh Tozer is the Sly Crooner of Swanktown "your pal the lounge lizard mixing martinis and stirring up modern urban fairy tales" on SiriusXM Book Radio.... Beverly Mickins is the creator of Story Salon the longest running storytelling show in Southern California. Her Atomic Lounge shows combine singing and storytelling.... Lance Anderson has been telling stories in a wide array of venues for nearly 20 years. One of the first storytellers to experiment with podcasting, he also founded the LA Podcasters in 2005. Anderson is also the current "Ringleader" of both Verge of LA literary magazine and Altadena Junction.

$10 Cover. RSVP Required.
(626) 791-8586

AltadenaJunction.com

Sunday, September 27, 2009
Time:	7:00pm - 8:30pm
Location:	Altadena Junction
Street:	2524 & 2526 El Molino Ave.
City/Town:	Altadena, CA

Lights up! Christmas Tree Lane assembly starts Oct. 10

Hello, Christmas Tree Lane Volunteer!!

This is a reminder to please join your neighbors and friends beginning October 10th from 9am to 12pm for “Lights Up”. As long as the weather permits, we will be putting lights in the trees every Saturday and Sunday thereafter from 9 to 12 until all the trees are finished. In the morning you will be greeted with donuts, coffee and hot chocolate and after 12:00 lunch will be served.

Remember we will be starting at the top of Christmas Tree Lane (Santa Rosa and Altadena Drive) and working our way down every weekend until finished.

 Two things to know before you come:

 1)      If you are bringing a group of more than 5 on any weekend and plan to stay and have lunch, PLEASE call (626) 403-1123 or E-Mail us beforehand so that we will have enough food for everyone;

2)      We can only move as fast as our tree climbers, so, if you would be willing to climb about one story up a ladder, please tell us when you come and we will show you what to do. (To get an idea of the height, go to any tree on the Lane, look up and see the metal box…that’s about how far up you’d need to go).

If you have any further questions about the specifics of screwing in bulbs and hanging lines in the trees, give us a call.

 Thank you and we hope to see you on the Lane!!

Elizabeth Nelson
--
Christmas Tree Lane Association
PO Box 11, Altadena Ca 91001
(626) 403 - 1123

Monday open comments

What's happening in your corner of the world?

Pictured: Charles Siringo, Pinkerton detective, lawman, and author who pursued Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Siringo retired to Altadena.

Get a handle on those love handles

The bodacious Revvell Revati will be offering teleclasses tomorrow (Tues., Sept. 22):

...to introduce women who are tired of weight loss diets to a new concept by getting to the core of their weight issues and getting a handle on them before the holidays. Eliminate the word "diet" from their new year's resolution vocabulary. http://bit.ly/3SbOlD.

"Andersonville Trial" at All Saints Sept. 24-27

Jennifer King of Altadena (and a mighty blogger herself) wants us to know that her husband, Eddie King, is directing "The Andersonville Trial," to be presented Thurs.-Sat. at 8 PM and Sun. at 2 and 7:30 PM at the Forum at All Saints Church, 132 E. Euclid, Pasadena.

This is a Blues & Bar-B-Q Stage Company production in association with All Saints Pasadena.
It’s going to a great show, stellar cast ...All professional actors with a passion for theatre.

Suggested donation is $10, going toward the Peace & Justice ministry at All Saints.
 

Looking for Farleigh

The Brennans are looking for their dog:

Farleigh is a 6 year old tricolor male, he is Australian shepherd and Rottweiler mix, he is very friendly dog about 95lbs. He was wearing a collar with his dog tags and another collar with a brass bell, he is micro-chipped. He was last seen at the trail head of the Sam Merrill trail just off Lake Ave. on the morning of August 25th around 10:30 AM, we have not seen or heard from him since.

We have placed posters and banners throughout Altadena and Pasadena.  We are offering a $500 reward for information leading to his recovery. Your blog's assistance in getting the word out would be much appreciated. My cell phone number is (310)766-5747.

Thank you once again, Fred and Irene Brennan, Pasadena, CA.

Arroyo Food Co-Op meetings Oct. 7, 10

Our friends at the Arroyo Food Co-op have two important meetings planned this month that are worth your consideration:

The regular Co-op Social will be held at the Zane Grey Estate, 396 E. Mariposa, at 7:30 PM on Wed., Oct. 7.  Reservations are requested.

The co-op's long-awaited membership launch event will be held Sat. Oct. 10, starting at 9 AM at the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Dr., and it's the event to attend:

Our Founding Team chair, Patrick Reagan, will present information on our progress, our business plan, and Member-Owner opportunities. Come find out what it means to become an Arroyo Food Co-op Member-Owner and the many benefits that creating a cooperative grocery store will bring to our community.

We are pleased to be joined at this event by Jens Koepke and Michelle Jacobson, both on the Board of Directors for Santa Monica’s Co-opportunity which is currently the only cooperative grocery store in the greater Los Angeles area.

We hope you’ll join us at this event and let us know you share our enthusiasm for the idea of bringing a cooperative grocery store to our area. We are going to use this meeting as a gauge for continuing our efforts – we need to know our community is interested in this endeavor.

For more information or for reservations, check out their website.

After the fire -- from space!

Alice Wessen of JPL (and so much more) sends us a link to this image of the Station Fire zone:

This image, captured by the Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) on NASA’s Terra satellite on September 6, shows the extent of the burned area. The newly charred land is black in this false-color image, which was made with near infrared light. Plants are dark red, and man-made surfaces, particularly the dense urban centers of Pasadena and Burbank, are blue and white.

The burned area covers much of the San Gabriel Mountains, edging down into residential areas northwest of Pasadena. Smoke rolls off the eastern edge of the burned land. The fire was still burning, just over 50 percent contained when the image was taken. According to the incident report from September 8, the fire was pushing east into forest with no recorded fire history. The fire had previously burned through tall, thick forest that had not seen fire in the past 40 years.

The image also illustrates why fighting the Station fire has been so difficult. The fire burned over steep mountains riddled with canyons. The rugged landscape looks wrinkled, particularly in the burned area where plants no longer soften the ridgelines and canyons. The steep terrain and the fire’s extreme, unpredictable behavior led to the death of two firefighters. Nine other firefighters have been injured fighting the fire, reported the Los Angeles Times.

South and east of the fire, the Mount Wilson Communication Facility and Observatory was still surrounded by unburned forest. The historic, 105-year-old observatory hosts two large telescopes, once the world’s largest, and other instruments to study the Sun and the Universe beyond. Mount Wilson also contains communications towers that serve much of the Los Angeles region. The image shows that the fire approached the facility on two sides, but left the forest around the observatory intact.

Bear Sat. morning @ Stonehill & E. Loma Alta

Yep -- they're still out there.  Bears, that is.

One of the posts in the "neighbors" newsgroup this morning, from someone who lives at about Stonehill and E. Loma Alta:

We were visited by a fairly large brown bear last night about 4:30am.  He entered the backyard (somehow, we don't know) and was climbing our fig tree which is loaded with ripe fruit.  He stayed quite awhile feasting on the fruit, shaking the tree like crazy, breaking only one branch thank goodness.  After his fill, he left the yard towards the front of the house, climbing the cinderblock wall.  We were impressed, he was very agile in his exit, not knocking over any of our "stuff" which is piled up.

Another neighbor confirmed that heavy trash cans were also knocked over this morning, so they've been on the prowl!

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