altadenablog

More on coyotes, Deodara/Santa Rosa

Reader Ronnie Lewis sent us this email about coyotes in their Deodara/Santa Rosa neighborhood:

Coyotes continue to be a big problem in our area.  A few weeks ago, while my daughter was (at night) walking from the kitchen door outside to the garage, she did not realize that our little Yorkie had slipped out until she heard a scream out front and ran down the driveway as our Yorkie ran past her being chased by two large coyotes. They took off after seeing my daughter.

Then last weekend while my husband was sitting on our backyard patio and the Yorkie playing in the yard, a huge coyote jumped over our back fence.  Luckily, our Yorkie once again was saved. They are clearly stalking her now that they know that she is here. 

After the first incident my husband took her to a local vet just to make sure that she was okay, and one of the girls in the office mentioned that based on the large size of the coyotes that they have seen and been told about it appears that they may have been inbreeding with wild dogs. Not sure about this hypothesis, but it is clear that they continue to be a major problem. When I called LA County Animal Control a few weeks ago they stated that there is nothing that they can do except give out the number of private companies that homeowners can pay to have come out and trap the coyotes. 

Panther Gremlins advance to conference championship

Adam Bell tells us the Pasadena Panther Gremlin (8, 9, 10 year old) Youth Tackle football team beat the Montebello Indians 6-0  in overtime at Bishop Amat High School Saturday.  With that win, the Panthers earn a berth to the San Gabriel Valley Junior All-American Football Conference Championship game next Saturday at West Covina High School.  The conference comprises  28 teams in the San Gabriel Valley and Foothill area. The Pasadena Panthers consist of of mostly Altadena and Pasadena kids and are based at John Muir High School.  Panthers are undefeated at 9-0.

 

 

PUSD Special Education meeting looks at student anxiety

"How to Help Your Child Deal with Anxiety" will be the topic Mon., Nov. 21, at the Pasadena Unified School District/SELPA Special Education Dept. Community Advisory Committee meeting.

Dr. Gwen Palafox, Clinical Psychologist and Dr. Diane Danis, MD, Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics

The meeting will be at the  Edison Professional Development Complex, 119 W. Palm Avenue, Altadena, starting at 6:15 PM.   There will be free childcare and translation.

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

 

Tournament of Roses Foundation looking for grantees

from the Pasadena Sun

The Tournament of Roses Foundation is now accepting grant applications from charitable organizations based in Alhambra, Altadena, Arcadia, La Cañada Flintridge, Monrovia, Pasadena, San Gabriel, San Marino, Sierra Madre and South Pasadena. Grants will be considered in the following categories: performing and visual arts; sports and recreation; and volunteer motivation and leadership development.

The foundation has invested more than $2 million in more than 150 organizations over the years. In 2011, grant awards totaled $98,500 and ranged from $1,000 to $10,000 per organization.

Applicants can find guidelines and answers to frequently asked questions at www.tournamentofroses.com/pasadena-tournament-of-roses/foundation.

To submit an application, visit the foundation’s “Online Data Manager” at: www.ctkodm.com/ptrf.

Applications are being accepted until 5 p.m. Jan. 26.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

 

Peace & Justice Academy Goodwill fundraiser Nov. 19

by Timothy Rutt

The Peace and Justice Academy, 1041 N. Altadena Dr. in Pasadena, is having a unique fundraiser -- you don't have to buy anything!  They're trying to fill a trailer or two for Goodwill Industries.  Your donation of gently used clothing, furniture, household items and more will help them raise funds for financial aid.

You can drop items off at the school starting Monday, or on next Saturday, Nov. 19, from 8 AM-2 PM.  Receipts are available, and there's more information on the flyer.

 

There once was a place in the 'Dena ...

by Timothy Rutt

... and we're going to stop right now.  The Altadena Ale & Wine House held its second annual Limerick Festival Friday night, where the poetic form may be strict, but some lines get crossed anyway.  Host Mimi Chen (from 100.3, "The Sound") hosted the benefit for City of Hope.  Here, Chen prepares to take a spin on the Wheel of Limerick to find out what gets read next.  More after the jump.

AUFM & Artisanal LA looking for vendors for market at the Armory Dec. 11

The Altadena Urban Farmer's Market (AUFM) is making a return for a "holiday pop-up shop" that they're putting together with Artisanal LA at the Armory Center for the Arts in Pasadena on Dec. 11.

Right now, they're looking for artisanal food vendors for the market:  do you bake bread, brew beer, pickle anything?  There's a place for you, but space is limited and vendor applications are due Nov. 18.  Priority is given to vendors who plan to accept time dollars/credits in additional to traditional forms of payment.

Apply here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dFdZSy0yLTExWWNOSWtUTVoxdVZTZ1E6MQ.

 

Living in the moment -- slowly

Jean-Paul Ziino puts together the Intuitive Movement Jam every Monday night at the Davies building in Farnsworth Park.  Every Halloween, he holds a masquerade ball there where, he write us, "the invitation each year is to come dressed as 'yourself in another life' and to leave as your authentic self." 

Here's a slow-motion video of some of the participants at this year's event.  Ziino writes: "I see slow motion video as really a study of all that is happening in the present moment, and a reminder to myself to open awareness and let more in... I am really happy about this little video we all created that night!"  Have a look: 

-------

 

It's the 'Stangs -- again -- in last night's Turkey Tussle

By Andrew J. Campa
Pasadena Sun 

For the 13th consecutive year, the bell tolled for Muir High.

Behind an opportunistic defense and just enough offense, the Mustangs football team rallied from a six-point deficit in defeating archrival Pasadena, 14-6, in Thursday evening’s 58th edition of the Turkey Tussle at the Rose Bowl.

The Mustangs’ victory is the 13th straight in the cross-town series, which is the longest streak held by either side, and added to Muir’s overall series record of 39-17-2.

The Mustangs also extended their unbeaten streak to 16 straight games over Pasadena, while helping their playoff chances as both teams are now tied for fourth in the Pacific League standings with a pair of important league games still to be played today.

Muir is now 6-4 overall and 4-3 in league while Pasadena dropped to 5-5 and 4-3.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

 

 

East Altadena Little League sign-up now

by Timothy Rutt

The East Altadena Little League has just started signup for spring.  Players get a $25 discount if they sign up before Nov. 20 -- all the info is on their website.

 

Missing: Arthur the cat

 

Reader Mary says:

I want to put the word out that my cat is missing: White with tabby spots on right ear and side, and a striped tail.   His name is Arthur and he has been missing since Saturday, November 5, 2011 from E. Pine Street/Palm Street area east of Fair Oaks Blvd.. He was immortalized last year in my neighbor Gloriana Casey's poem http://www.altadenablog.com/2010/09/poetry-corner-dogs-and-cats-not-living-together.html

Arthur is prone to misadventures inside and outside and I fear he may be stuck in a tree somewhere and I hope to find him before the next storm hits. 

He is fairly large and usually a bit dusty since he likes to roll in the dirt. He is microchipped, but does not have a collar. I have a attached a photo of him, and a copy of the flyer I am about to post around the neighborhood. I would be very grateful if you could post a notice for him - he is sorely missed! 

 

Thank you ...

... to all those who served, and serve, their country in the uniformed services.  We are grateful beyond words.

Photo by Amy Jacobs, stock.xchng.com

Waldorf School's Elves' Faire opens the holiday magic Nov. 19

For the 26th year, the Pasadena Waldorf School (which is in Altadena) will hold the Elves’ Faire, making the school's wooded campus at 209 E. Mariposa St. the most magical, unique  --  and “green”  --  school event in the San Gabriel valley.

Pictured: Expect Father Winter to make his appearance at next week's Elves' Faire.

About 4,000 faire-goers are expected to attend to enjoy the music, feasting, crafting, holiday shopping and medieval-style contests and games for kids of all ages, which will be Sat., Nov. 19, from 10 AM-4 PM.  Admission and parking are free.

The Faire is widely known for holiday shopping that is fun and heartwarming.  The Doll Room is an enchanted showcase of one-of-a-kind handmade dolls lovingly created by members of the Pasadena Waldorf community. The Angel Room is a magical experience for children. (No adults are allowed in the Angel Room.) Instead, “Angels,” played by eight graders, accompany children as they select beautiful handmade gifts, each costing $5, for their family members and friends.  King Arthur’s Market is a medieval outpost with handmade swords, shields, capes and other beautifully crafted fantasy toys created by community artists and artisans.

Morning jolt

• Ivette Babikian's fifth grade science class at Sahag-Mesrob Armenian Christian School adopted a caracal -- a small wild cat -- at the Yerevan Zoo in Armenia, says the Armenian Reporter.
• Nov. 15 is "America Recycles Day," and it's a good time to remind you that household batteries can be recycled locally at Webster's Liquor, 2450 N. Lake Ave.: Altadena Hardware, 849 E. Mariposa St.; and Masters Building Supply, 370 E. Woodbury.
• Aviation fans: there will be a low altitude flyover over Memorial Park in Pasadena for Veteran's Day today.  The ceremony in the park will go from 10:30-11:15 AM.
• This week's art fair and open studio sale at Xiem Clay Center, where many Altadena ceramic artists practice, has been rescheduled due to this weekend's expected rains.  The sale will instead be next weekend: Fri., Nov. 18 from 6-9 PM and Sat., Nov. 19, from 10:30 AM-4:30 PM.  Xiem Clay Center is at 1563 North Lake Ave., Pasadena.
• There will be a memorial service for William “Wild Bill” Pluma Barrios, a homeless man who was a fixture at Hahamongna Watershed Park, on Sunday, Nov. 13, reports Daniel Siegel at the Valley Sun.  Barrios, 54, a denizen of the park, died there in October.
• This is still coyote country: reader Maria on Beverly Way says that coyotes are frequently spotted near that street's intersection with Maiden Lane, and the remains of a cat were found in a yard this week.  Be careful with your pets -- the danger's still there.

.. and now with Latin phrases

"ODE TO HUSKY"
from gloriana casey

The Bear went over the mountain
to see what he could EAT!
He heard the growl of the Husky
and thought Godzilla he'd meet!

But Husky is a Chihuahua,
small and fragile---he seems.
Alert and bolder than T-Rex!
A nightmare to Bear's hungry dreams.

Garbage can? It was a fortress,
Bear claws couldn't break in.
Monster barks-- they surrounded!
STEALING, dear Bear--is a sin!

Help the sheriff's food and toy drive, AND clear your library fines starting Nov. 21

from the Altadena Library District

Do you have some library fines you haven’t gotten around to paying? Would you like to clear those fines AND do a good deed--all at the same time? Well, now's your chance!

From November 21 through December 3, patrons at Altadena Library are invited to help support the Sheriff’s Food and Toy Drive by bringing in new toys or non-perishable food items in lieu of paying those fines.

According to Library Director Barbara Pearson, “This program has been so popular with our patrons that many bring in items even though they do not have fines because they want to help those in need at this special time of the year.”

Check below to see how you can help the community and clear up your outstanding fines.

• $ 1 - $  5    2 canned goods or 1 non-perishable item
• $ 6 - $10    3 canned goods +  1 non-perishable item or 1 new toy*
• $11 - $20   4 canned goods +  1 non-perishable item or 1 new toy*
• $21 - $30   5 canned goods +  2 non-perishable items or 2 new toys*
• $31 - $50   6 canned goods +  3 non-perishable items or 3 new toys*

*Toys must be new and unwrapped and of equal value to the fine waived.

For more information, please call the Main Altadena Library at 626-798-0833 or the Branch at 626-798-8338. 

 

 

Rain predicted for Saturday, may be only half inch

Prediction of rain has been dialed down a bit, but the latest from the National Weather Service is that we may see the wet stuff around dawn Saturday, and probably not as much as feared:

 A STORM SYSTEM CONTINUES TO DEVELOP OVER THE EASTERN PACIFIC OCEAN  AND WILL APPROACH SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA FRIDAY. LIGHT RAIN IS EXPECTED  TO DEVELOP ON THE CENTRAL COAST FRIDAY AFTERNOON... POSSIBLY REACHING  THE LOS ANGELES BASIN AROUND DAWN SATURDAY. CONSIDERABLE UNCERTAINTY  REMAINS WITH HOW MUCH RAIN WILL FALL FROM THIS STORM BUT THE BEST ESTIMATE AT THIS POINT IS UNDER A HALF INCH IN ALL AREAS. SNOW LEVELS WILL BE ABOVE 7000 FEET FOR THE DURATION OF THIS EVENT...WITH ONLY LIGHT ACCUMULATIONS EXPECTED EVEN AT HIGHER ELEVATIONS.

E-waste collection, document shredding at Rose Bowl Sat.

from the Pasadena Sun

Pasadena is encouraging residents to recycle their old electronics, sensitive documents and other equipment on Saturday, Nov. 12 at Brookside Park.

Pasadena Public Works is sponsoring the event, and city employees will recycle radios, computers, microwaves, TVs and other electronic equipment for free. Up to five legal-sized boxes of documents will also be accepted to shred, ideal for documents containing personal or sensitive information.

The first parking lot at 360 N. Arroyo Blvd. will be accepting the materials from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more information e-mail recycle@cityofpasadena.net or call (626) 744-4087.

 

War of words at Pasadena school board meeting

By Joe Piasecki
Pasadena Sun 

Tension between African-American and Latino residents erupted during a Pasadena Board of Education meeting that drew more than 100 people Tuesday, with groups directing harsh words at school leaders and each other.

African-American activists who sat on one side of the room took turns accusing board members of putting political and personal differences ahead of student achievement, saying too little was being done to serve minority children.

A group of Latino parents who gathered on the opposite side of the chamber also lobbed criticism at the board for frequent public infighting, but leapt to the defense of its only Latino member, Ramon Miramontes, who came under fire from Pasadena attorney Joe Hopkins.

Hopkins, who organized the African-American presence, accused Miramontes of fostering conflict and influencing district policy to put Latino students’ needs before those of blacks.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

 

"Curiosity" set to launch Nov. 25

from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Image of Curiosity courtesy NASA.

NASA's most advanced mobile robotic laboratory, which will examine one of the most intriguing areas on Mars, is in final preparations for a launch from Florida's Space Coast at 10:25 a.m. EST (7:25 a.m. PST) on Nov. 25.

The Mars Science Laboratory mission will carry Curiosity, a rover with more scientific capability than any ever sent to another planet. The rover is now sitting atop an Atlas V rocket awaiting liftoff from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.

"Preparations are on track for launching at our first opportunity," said Pete Theisinger, Mars Science Laboratory project manager at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, Calif. "If weather or other factors prevent launching then, we have more opportunities through Dec. 18."

Scheduled to land on the Red Planet in August 2012, the one-ton rover will examine Gale Crater during a nearly two-year prime mission. Curiosity will land near the base of a layered mountain 3 miles (5 kilometers) high inside the crater. The rover will investigate whether environmental conditions ever have been favorable for development of microbial life and preserved evidence of those conditions.

"Put a Fork in Hunger" Sat.-Sun at the Fork in the Road

by Timothy Rutt

Bob Stane at the Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake, tells us that this weekend there will be "the largest food drive Pasadena has ever seen" to benefit Union Station Homeless Services.  Where?  At the Fork in the Road, of course.

The newly re-installed Fork at "Fork Plaza" (Pasadena Ave., St. John Drive, and Bellefontaine in Pasadena) will be the site of the "Put The Fork in Hunger" food drive, collecting non-perishable food for Union Station's Thanksgiving Day feast at Pasadena's Central Park.  Drive by slowly and volunteers in bright orange shirts will collect your donations.  If you can't make the food drive, donations can be made at the Coffee Gallery.

What: "Put The Fork in Hunger" Food Drive

Where: The Fork in the Road (Pasadena Ave./ St. John Drive, Pasadena)

When: Sat. and Sun., Nov. 12-13, 8 AM-4 PM

Why: To benefit Union Station Homeless Services.

 

Morning jolt: Husky is the new Paco

• Alice Wessen at the Chaney Trail neighborhood tells us that her chihuahua, Husky (OK, so he's ambitious) treed a bear on their property Tuesday night.  Do not mess with Altadena's chihuahuas.  It must be something in the water.
• LAist has a piece on the reinstalled Fork in the Road, Altadena's contribution to Pasadena civic art.  Do not mess with Altadena's artists, either.

 

Weekendin' Nov. 10-13

Rainy weekend promised, but it doesn't slow down (remember that everything is "weather permitting!")

Thurs. Nov. 10

• Altadena MOMS club open house, 10 AM-noon.  If you're an at-home mom living in Altadena, they want you -- for more information, including location, write to altadenamomsclub@gmail.com.
• Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake:  backstage, Janam (Balkan/Sephardic/American roots music), 8 PM, $15. Reservations:  (626) 798-6236.  

Fri., Nov. 11

• Fancy Food Truck Friday at Webster's is canceled due to expected rain, but will be back next month.
• Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake.  Front stage, open mic, 8 PM, free; Backstage, Swing Riots Quirkette, , 8 PM, $15. Reservations:  (626) 798-6236.
• "Snowmen," a family comedy film, premieres at Altadena Baptist Church, 791 E. Calavaras St., at 6:30 and 8:30 PM.  Starring Altadena resident Bobby Coleman (Martian Child), the  up and coming young star recently played Miley Cyrus' little brother in the film "The Last Song."  Bobby will be at the screening to greet attendees, sign autographs, and answer questions directly following each screening.  Also starring Ray Liotta (Wild Hogs), Bobb’e J. Thompson (That’s So Raven), Josh Flitter (The Greatest Game Ever Played) and Christopher Lloyd (Back to the Future), the film tells the story of three small-town boys who find adventure and purpose through their attempts to set a Guinness World Record. Q&A and autographs will be after the showings at 8:05 and 10 PM.
• The Altadena Altadena Ale & Wine House, 2329 N. Fair Oaks Ave., hosts the second annual Limerick Festival, from 6:30-10 PM.  Celebrities include MC Mimi Chen  and NPR's Tess Vigeland, along with many poets and an open mic.   $10 donation goes to Jansplays' fundraiser for City of Hope.

Sat., Nov. 12

• Christmas Tree Lane Lights Up goes from 9 AM-noon. In the morning you will be greeted with donuts, coffee and hot chocolate and after 12:00 lunch will be served. 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 so that we will have enough food for everyone.
• Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy Hiking Series: Docent: John Harrigan, author, "Mt. Lowe Power." Meet: Pleasantridge Drive and Rubio Vista Drive. The Mount Lowe Railway was a feat of engineering when it was constructed in the late 19th century: the third in a series of scenic mountain railways in America, with a funicular system built by the man who designed San Francisco's cable cars. Learn about the technical workings of this incredible railroad in a hike along its former route with electrical engineer John Harrigan.Trail Description: About a mile each way. The hike is demanding at points, with several high narrow steps near a sheer drop and a scramble over rocks in the creek near the end.
• National Gaming Day at the Library: Children of all ages and their parents are invited to come to the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St.  for National Gaming Day.  Play old favorite board games or try some new ones! Stop by the children’s room anytime between 10 AM-6 PM to take part in this event.
• "Handmade Holiday" craft boutique at the Green Carriage House on Santa Rosa Avenue (behind the Altadena Main Library), 2-6 PM.  Vendors will be selling handmade crafts, with 10% of proceeds to benefit Club 21, the Down Syndrome resource center.  Cash or check only, please.
• "Put the Fork in Hunger":  What promises to be Pasadena's largest food drive will be at at “Fork Plaza” 200 Bellefontaine ,located at Pasadena Ave. & St. John Ave. (just South of Huntington Hospital) and Bellefontaine in Pasadena to benefit Union Station Homeless Services.  Drive by the Fork in the Road and drop off non-perishable food items that will be help feed over 5,000 people on Thanksgiving Day.  Simply drive by slowly and drop off food items to volunteers wearing the bright orange shirts with outreach bags. 8 AM-4 PM.
• Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake: Tumbling Tumbleweeks with Joyce Goodson (western/Americana) 7 PM, $20. Reservations:  (626) 798-6236.
• Allan Wasserman Jazz Ensemble at the Altadena Ale & Wine House, 2329 N. Fair Oaks Ave., 8 PM.

Sun., Nov. 13

• Christmas Tree Lane Lights Up continues, 9-noon, see Saturday for details.
• Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake: front stage, open mic, 8 PM, free; backstage, Janet Klein and her Parlor Boys, 7 PM, $20. Reservations:  (626) 798-6236.

 

Found husky now available for adoption [UPDATE: He's adopted]

The home of the husky that was found last week hasn't been identified, so he's available to adopt:

We have been taking care of a husky puppy who was found in Altadena a few weeks ago.  After checking at multiple shelters, scanning for a microchip (he's not chipped) and posting flyers around Altadena, La Cañada and Pasadena, we now need to find this puppy a permanent home.

What we know: we think he is probably around 6-8 months old. He has one brown eye and one blue eye (think David Bowie), and he is not fixed. He loves playing all day long with our 2 year old husky and is very friendly with humans.  He didn't know if our cat was a toy but once she swiped him across the face he has left her alone. :) He does not seem to be house broken or trained but seems to be picking up the commands we are teaching him quickly.  He is also taking nicely to sleeping in the crate at night, especially if our dog sleeps next to him.  

He is a happy tempered husky who is very sweet and just needs to now find a great home.  Our husky was also a rescue and we couldn't picture our family without him!!

James Romero

BlackSwift Bicycles

626-806-2649

UPDATE 6 PM: James says the dog has found a new home.

Nationwide emergency alert test, 11 AM today

Don't forget that today at 11 AM FEMA, the FCC, and NOAA will conduct the first nationwide Emergency Alert System test, which is supposed to last 45 to 60 seconds.  

Coming on the heels of our near-extinction event yesterday, why are we nervous this week?

 

Major rain predicted to arrive Friday

Things are being canceled left and right as the National Weather Service  says a strong storm system is on its way, possibly bringing heavy rain and mountain snows Friday into Saturday.  The "current thinking," as NWS calls it, is that rain will reach the Los Angeles basin  sometime Friday afternoon or evening, with the possibility of thunderstorms.  Potentially, they say, 2 to 4.5 ins. of rain is possible in the foothills and mountains.

 

Village Playgarden seeking vendors for Dec. 10 Winter Market

 Kristin Petherbridge tells us that her youngest's nursery school, the Village Playgarden, has moved to Altadena and is looking for vendors for next month's event:

We are excited to announce that we are accepting applications for arts and crafts vendors for this year's Village Playgarden Winter Market in December. Our Winter Market will be even more special this year as we have moved to our new home on a wonderful property in Altadena. Village Playgarden is a holistic early childhood community - please see our website to learn more about the school: http://www.villageplaygarden.org.

The Winter Market will be held on Sat., Dec. 10, from 10 AM - 3 PM.

If you are interested vending your handmade arts and crafts at our Winter Market, please contact Kristin (littlelief "at" hotmail.com) as soon as possible to receive more information and a vendor application.

If you are unable to participate on Market Day but are willing to make a donation of your product(s) for Village Playgarden to sell or raffle during the Market, please contact Kristin (littlelief "at" hotmail.com) or call Village Playgarden at 626-296-6901. 

 

Year-end tax planning at Chamber mixer next Thurs.

CPA and small business specialist W. Elizabeth Watts will be the speaker at the Altadena Chamber of Commerce mixer Thurs., Nov. 17, from 5:30-7:30 PM at the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Dr.

Watts will speak on year-end tax planning for your business.

Bring a raffle prize and receive a 30 second commercial to promote your business (or just to be, you know, nice!)

Admission for chamber members is $5,  guests is $7.  Reserve a place here.

 

Mann leading 2-1 in PCC trustee's election results

By Bill Kisliuk
Pasadena Sun

Incumbents enjoyed wide leads in all three contested races for seats on the Pasadena City College Board of Trustees in early results on Tuesday night.

Former Pasadena Mayor William Thomson, seeking his second term on the board, outpaced political activis M.A.C. Enriquez-Marquez 85% to 15% in early returns. Longtime PCC board members Jeanette Mann and ;John Martin enjoyed roughly 2-1 leads over their respective rivals, Altadena conservative Brian Fuller and Los Angeles City College instructor Chris Cofer.

The figures were the latest posted by the Los Angeles County Registrar of Voters office as of 10:30 p.m., with between 5% and 13% of precincts reporting.

If elected, Mann, representing north and east Pasadena as well as Altadena, will serve her eighth four-year term on the board. Martin, representing El Monte and part of Temple City, has been on the board for 32 years and will serve his ninth term.

Martin said his main goals in recent times have been to add class offerings at the school, advance the Pathways program that allows students to register for blocks of classes and to provide curriculum geared for in-district high school students coming into the college.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

 

Food Truck Friday cancelled this month

by Timothy Rutt

Meredith Miller at Webster's Community Pharmacy says that, due to predictions of a gullywasher coming in this weekend, Fancy Food Truck Friday at the Webster's parking lot is cancelled (rain: bad for families, bad for food trucks, bad for Danny's Farm animals).  She says, weather permitting, it's on for Dec. 9 before it closes for the winter.

Police blotter: burglaries and car break-ins

A rather abbreviated police blotter this week, from Lt. Duane L. Allen from the Altadena Sheriff's Station:

Sun., Oct. 30

Between 8:00 PM and 7:00 AM, Monday – A petty theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred inthe 1400 block of E. New York Drive. Loss: black Apple iPod, white Apple iPod.

Between 8:00 PM and 8:00 AM, Monday – A petty theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred inthe 1600 block of Morada Place. Loss: $25.00 in coins.

Mon., Oct. 31

Between 5:45 AM and 10:10 PM – A burglary from an unsecured garage occurred in the 2400 block of Glenrose Avenue. Loss: none.

Between 6:00 AM and 4:45 PM, Wednesday – A residential burglary occurred in the 400 block of E. Mariposa Street. Suspect(s) entered the residence via the patio door. Loss: unknown.

Thurs., Nov. 3

Between 8:15 PM and 8:10 AM – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 3300 block of Monterosa Avenue. Loss: brown/tan Louis Vuitton handbag, wallet (tri-fold & bi-fold), aviator sunglasses, credit cards.

Bulgarini takes over coffee bar in Culver City, but will keep Altadena location open

We were a little frightened to read in the LA Weekly that Leo Bulgarini has taken over the TeaForest Tea & Coffee Bar in Culver City as a new place to serve his creations, but we are heartened that the Altadena resident is keeping his hometown Bulgarini Gelato shop open, too (it's where he makes his product, after all).

TeaForest is keeping its locally-famous name and product line, and the Altadena gelato palace will remain open -- Leo will just adjust the local hours.  Whew!  

Christ the Shepherd fundraiser at Panda Express tomorrow

The community is invited to support the youth program at Christ the Shepherd Lutheran Church in Altadena by lunching or dining out at Panda Express-Lincoln Crossing  (2234 Lincoln Avenue, Altadena) on Wed., Nov. 9.  Download the attached flyer and present to the cashier.  Thanks for your support!

Huntington Hospital thanks blood donors with free movie tickets

Huntington Hospital in Pasadena tells us that blood donations have been down this fall, and it's critical that they have an adequate blood supply, especially during the holidays.

So while they welcome donations any time, they're prepared to spice up the offer:

People who make blood donations at Huntington Hospital on Nov. 21-23 will give a free movie ticket.  Hours are:

Mon., Nov. 21 – 11 AM to 6:30 PM

Tues., Nov. 22 – 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM

Wed., Nov.  23 – 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM

The blood donation center will be closed on Thanksgiving Thursday and Friday.  The blood donation center is next to the emergency room.  Parking is in the structure, and will be validated for donors.

The appointment number is 626.397.5422.

 

 

Jeffry Michael Jensen is November's Coffee Gallery artist

Altadena's Jeffry Michael Jensen is the November artist at the Gallery in the Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake.

Since 1991, I’ve been a member of the Pasadena Society of Artists. Over the years, my paintings, mixed media works, and digital photographs have been shown in many one-person and group shows, winning awards on several occasions. In addition, I’ve worked as a research editor, reference librarian, and college instructor. I’m also the author of several poetry chapbooks, nonfiction books, and many hundreds of essays and book reviews.

As a self-taught artist, I approach every painting, mixed media work, and digital photograph with a sense of discovery. Through vivid abstract images and vibrant color combinations, I hope to shed light on how my subconscious mind translates the visible world around me.

 

Relay for Life looking for committee chairs

The American Cancer Society's Altadena Relay for Life is looking for volunteers to chair or co-chair a variety of committees.  The Relay wil be held June 9-10, 2012.

Particularly needed is a chair for "Bark for Life," a two-hour fundraising event to be held sometime before the relay, where you can walk with your dog.  Other needs are:

• Food Co-Chair
• Logistics Chair
• Registration Chair
• Team Development Chair
• Youth Team Chair
• Advocacy Chair
• Caregiver Chair (new this year to have a caregiver's tent)
• Photographer/Historian Chair

If you're interested, contact Heather Morrow at  hcmorrow@gmail.com or Rose West at curvesaltadena@att.net.

St. Elizabeth School open house next Tues.

 

St. Elizabeth Parish School is having an Open House on Tues., Nov. 15, 2011 at 9 AM.  Come learn more about the only Catholic school in Altadena.  You will have an opportunity to hear about the school's offerings, visit our classrooms, and speak with our teachers, parents and school board members.  For more information, please call (626) 797-7727 or visit our website a twww.saint-elizabeth.org.  Private tours can be arranged if you are not available during this open house. 

 

 

ACTRWG meeting tonight; Hahamongna EIR on the agenda

from Robert Staehle, ACTRWG

We hope you can join us for the Altadena Crest Trail Restoration Working Group (ACTRWG) meeting Tue., Nov. 8, 7 PM, Nov. 8, at the Altadena Community Center (730 E Altadena Drive, just west of Lake Avenue, next to the Sheriff's Station and across the street from Rite Aid). 

All are welcome! Please come to express your support, concerns and ideas for "Getting our ACT (Altadena Crest Trail) together." 

Please note:  Comments are due this Friday, Nov. 11, on the Notice of Preparation and Initial Study of the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works' Devil's Gate Reservoir Sediment Removal and Management Project in Hahamongna Watershed Park. This project will have significant impacts on Hahamongna parkland and neighboring communities, including trail access! The Altadena Crest Trail's western terminus is in Hahamongna Watershed Park where our trail connects to La Canada Flintridge, USFS, and lower Arroyos Seco trails. For this reason, along with concern for the scenic and natural habitat in the park, the status of the EIR will be on Tuesday's agenda.

Asteroid 2005 Y55 passing close at 3:23 PM, but no doom expected

from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Photo: YU55, JPL/NASA

NASA’s Deep Space Network antenna in Goldstone, Calif. has captured new radar images of Asteroid 2005 YU55 passing close to Earth.

The asteroid will safely fly past our planet slightly closer than the moon's orbit on Nov. 8. The last time a space rock this large came as close to Earth was in 1976, although astronomers did not know about the flyby at the time. The next known approach of an asteroid this size will be in 2028.

The image was taken on Nov. 7 at 11:45 a.m. PST (2:45 p.m. EST/1945 UTC), when the asteroid was approximately 860,000 miles (1.38 million kilometers) away from Earth. Tracking of the aircraft carrier-sized asteroid began at Goldstone at 9:30 a.m. PDT on Nov. 4 with the 230-foot-wide (70-meter) antenna and lasted about two hours, with an additional four hours of tracking planned each day from Nov. 6 - 10

Radar observations from the Arecibo Planetary Radar Facility in Puerto Rico will begin Nov. 8, the same day the asteroid will make its closest approach to Earth at 3:28 p.m. PST (6:28 p.m. EST/1128 UTC).

Gibbs' boot camp operation under scrutiny by police, schools in 2009

by Joe Piasecki and Adolfo Flores
Pasadena Sun

A boot camp program operated by former Altadena town councilman Keith Gibbs on Pasadena public school grounds from 2007 to 2009 was shut down by school district officials due to complaints of “corporal punishment tactics” and an allegation of Gibbs’ sexual contact with a minor, according to Pasadena Unified School District documents.

In a Feb. 3, 2010 letter to Gibbs, then Pasadena Supt. Edwin Diaz refused to extend Gibbs’ permit to operate camps on the John Muir High School and Washington Middle School campuses. Diaz cited a Pasadena police investigation of sexual misconduct involving an underage female, parent and teacher complaints of harsh treatment of camp participants and Gibbs’ failure to pay $4,350 for his permit to operate on campus.

Diaz said Gibbs misled school officials and disrupted meetings while pressing the school board to renew his permit. He ordered Gibbs to refrain from coming onto the Muir campus.

Pasadena Police Lt. Phlunte Riddle confirmed Monday that Gibbs faced an investigation of the sexual misconduct allegation by a Muir High student, but said no charge was filed because the girl offered conflicting statements to police.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

Pictured: Keith Gibbs.

Vote today

by Timothy Rutt

It's consolidated local and municipal elections today.  Polls open at 7 AM and close at 8 PM, and the only issue in Altadena is to choose between incumbent Jeanette W. Mann and Brian M.Fuller for PCC governing board member for East Altadena, East Pasadena, and Sierra Madre.  To find out your polling place, go to www.lavote.net, altho' that site was down at 6 AM today.

Some days the bear bites you

We've been dealing with household emergencies and a mild illness today.  We think after a good night's sleep, we should be back in order again!  Thanks for your indulgence!

 

Morning jolt

• Revvell Revati is looking for women over 40 who would like to eliminate 25 pounds or more; gain more flexibility, balance and strength while having fun playing with others. Classes are held Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning from 7-8:30 a.m. at a private home in Altadena, near New York and Woodbury. This is a "by donation" class. Please contact: Revvell@gmail.com.
• LA Times' garden blogger Emily Green of Altadena talks about co-existing with gophers.

Bright Futures Scholars hear from mentors

by Timothy Rutt

Fifth District Supervisor and Los Angeles County Mayor Michael D. Antonovich speaks to the Bright Futures Scholars Saturday afternoon at the Altadena Community Cener.  The Scholars heard from Antonovich, Pasadena Unified School District Superintendent Jon Gundry, and Pasadena City College President/Superintendent Dr. Mark W. Rocha in a session where the luminaries talked of their background and leadership.

St. Elizabeth's opens the Market on Sat., Nov. 19, looking for vendors

Please join us for a celebration of creativity at The Market at St. Elizabeth School on Saturday, November 19, from 10 AM-3 PM. 

The day will include a variety of vendors with Handmade Crafts, Caramel Apples, Kettle Corn, Face Painting, Food, and a Kids’ Corner with creative activities for the kids.  The intention is to celebrate the creative spirit by supporting the work of human hands.  If you or someone you know might be interested in selling as a vendor please email TheMarket@saint-elizabeth.org for an application and to reserve a space.  All Are Welcome!

Teen boot camps under fire

By Adolfo Flores and Joe Piasecki
Pasadena Sun

Boot camps for wayward teens are not a new phenomenon in Pasadena, though juvenile justice officials and others say the camps’ harsh physical tactics are unjustified and counterproductive.

John Muir High School hosted a boot camp program from 2007 to 2009, before school officials put a stop to them. But controversy regarding the camps erupted late last month when the Pasadena Star-News posted two videos depicting conduct allegedly tied to Pasadena-based boot camp operators. One two-minute video shows teens forced to drink water until they are sick; another shows a juvenile wearing a car tire around his neck while adults bark orders at him from inches away.

Pasadena police launched an investigation after the videos became public, but Lt. Phlunte Riddle said this week that they have yet to identify the individuals in the videos. The Star-News reported the videos were taped at Firestone Boy Scout Reservation near Brea in 2009, and linked them to Pasadena boot camp operators Keith Gibbs and Kelvin McFarland.

Gibbs denies he was present for the videos, and McFarland, through his wife Nora Morales, declined comment.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

Huntington Memorial Hospital will double ER size

Emergency Medicine Department Section Chair Dr. Asbasia Mikhail talks with patient Maria Misquez, of Pasadena, in the emergency department at Huntington Hospital in Pasadena on Friday, October 28, 2011. An expansion of the Emergency Department is underway, nearing completion, and entirely funded by charity. (Tim Berger/Pasadena Sun Photographer)

 

By Tiffany Kelly
Pasadena Sun

Huntington Memorial Hospital is more than halfway done with an ambitious expansion of its emergency department as the center seeks to keep pace with rising demand for emergency room services.

The hospital’s current emergency and trauma center has 21 beds. The new center will add 22,000 square feet and host 50 beds.

The $80-million expansion was fueled by several factors that have increased activity at the Huntington emergency room.

The first came in 2002, when Pasadena’s St. Luke Medical Center closed, making Huntington the hub for 90% of all local 911 calls in the area.

“When St. Luke’s closed, our volume went up 10 to 20 percent,” Jeanette Abundis, executive director for emergency services at Huntington, said. “It’s one of the reasons for the expansion.”

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

 

St. Elizabeth's pre-Christmas tree sale on now

The 8th Grade Class at St. Elizabeth School is pre-selling Christmas trees and wreaths to raise money for a week-long science camp.  Orders must be submitted by Nov. 15 and you pick up the tree/wreath at the school on Saturday, Dec. 3, from 10 AM to noon.  (They will deliver for a $20 fee if you can't make it at that time.)  Please see the attached flyer for pricing.  You can contact Rhonda Villanueva (rleevillan@gmail.com) or Judith Estrada (judithyangel@sbcglobal.net) for further details.  

Howard supporters plan march on PUSD board meeting

By Joe Piasecki
Pasadena Sun 

Supporters of John Muir High School football coach Ken Howard, who now faces a misdemeanor battery charge for his role in a Sept. 28 scuffle with a student, are planning to gather Tuesday at a Pasadena school board meeting as part of a broader effort to address race and education.

Howard is scheduled to be arraigned Dec. 1 on a charge of “battery on a school ground,” Pasadena City Prosecutor Connie Orozco said in an email Wednesday. If convicted, he faces up to a year in jail and fines up to $2,000.

Even before the charge was filed, attorney Joe Hopkins, who represents Howard, called for a “100-man march” on Pasadena Unified School District headquarters to address the board about gaps in standardized test performance between white students and their black and Latino peers.

NAACP Pasadena Branch President Joe Brown and former school board candidate Gene Stevenson, now an Altadena town councilman, are helping to organize the march.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

 

 

Altadena Junction: old ghosts

Our column is up at the Sunday Valley Sun, about law enforcement and ghosts of the past.