altadenablog

Altadena Chamber sponsors "Fireworks & Food Trucks" July 2

by Timothy Rutt

The Altadena Chamber of Commerce's "Fireworks and Food Truck" event is a great way to enjoy one of Altadena's community events and support a good cause at the same time.

On July 2, five food trucks will be lined up at the Altadena Golf Course parking lot, 1456 E. Mendocino St.,  starting at 6 PM.  Bring a chair to enjoy some great food and get ready for the Altadena Town & Country Club's annual fireworks show, starting at 9:30 PM.  Limited lot parking and street parking will be available.  

The event will help raise funds for the Marion Lee Wullschlager Scholarship Fund.  The event is co-sponsored by the Chamber, DC Golf, and Goliath Graffix.

"We want to invite you to bring your friends family and neighbors over to enjoy great food, watch the sparkling fireworks and help give back to your local business community at the same time," said Inger Miller (Miller-Hawkins Productions), Chamber president.

Participating food trucks will be: The Greasy Weiner, Komodo, Slammin' Sliders, Sweet Arleen's Cupcakes, and A-Rockin' Ice.  For more information, call 626-794-6015.

 

Burglar strikes with napping teen in the house

by Timothy Rutt

One of our readers called Wednesday to report a burglary at their home on Altadena Drive near the intersection with North Holliston Avenue.  At the time of the call (yes, the sheriff had been notified), they noticed a laptop and some other items were missing.  Most disturbing, the house wasn't empty -- the family's teenager was taking a nap in the house at the time (sometime between 11:15 AM-12:15 PM).  If you've seen anything that makes you suspicious, call the sherif station at 798-1131.

Poetry corner: WalmartDena Blues

Up-to-the minute with Gloriana Casey:

"Killing us Softly with Walmart"
                  or
"Danger, Danger, Will Robinson"

from gloriana casey

This "Vision for the Future" then,
in Altadena Land,
how cavalier and sneaky too
with County's surprise plan!

We did not know that "vision quest"
was meant for just Walmart.
Oh County, County, oh so cruel
to break the People's heart.

Resource and opportunity fair at Metropolitan Baptist June 30

by Timothy Rutt

Metropolitan Baptist Church, 2283 N. Fair Oaks Ave., will hold a "Neighborhood Resource and Opportunity Fair" on Sat., June 30, from 10 AM-2 PM.

The resource fair will connect residents with a variety of services and opportunities, including employment and job development, health screenings and testing, GED and high school completion programs, vocational training and more.  Click on the graphic for details.

 

Altadena Town Council: June meeting highlights

 

John Hopkins, center, owner of O Happy Days health food store, received a Community Service Award from the Altadena Town Council on Tues., June 19. He is flanked by councilmembers Allen Wasserman and Amy Cienfuegos.

 

by Timothy Rutt

Some highlights from Tuesday’s Altadena Town Council meeting:

• Park After Dark:  this summer’s evening program at Loma Alta Park runs on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from July 5 to Aug. 25, and came up a couple of times during the meeting.
  
  Meliza Hernandez, recreation services manager at Loma Alta Park, said that the program includes many family activities as well as a resouce fair on July 19.  Altadena Sheriff Capt. John Benedict said that that deputies would also be participating in the evenings, with the sheriff department’s Parks Bureau  providing policing services. The sheriff’s department will also bring people from Loma Alta Park to Altadena Sheriff Station for tours, helped by the sheriff station’s Explorers.
• Election certified:  the council certified June 9’s town council election. Election chair Eric Pierce said that there were 78 ballots cast, with seven ruled invalid (two had write-ins, two had no candidates marked, and three had candidates marked in the incorrect census tract).  There were no violations of rules, and no challenges to result, and the whole election cost $153.41.  Pierce recommended that the council review its rules to see if an election is mandatory, even if there are no real races.  This year, two census tracts fielded no candidates at all, and the other six tracts had a single, unopposed candidate.
• Chamber events:  Ed Meyers of the Altadena Chamber of Commerce said that the chamber was partnering with SCORE, offering one-on-one small business advice. To set up a consultation, contact the chamber.
  
  The chamber is also sponsoring “Fireworks and Food Trucks,” with food trucks available at the parking lot of the Altadena Golf Course before the July 2 fireworks display.  Parking for that event is in the lot or on the street.
  
  Meyers said that he chamber is also looking for opportunities to provide more parking in the Lake Avenue business district.  Right now they are working with county public works to relocate some bus stops to open up more parking spots on Lake Avenue.
• Summer camp:  The parks department’s Hernandez said that there were still some spots available at county park summer camps.  Charles White Park’s summer day camp runs from 9 AM to 6 PM, and costs $25 per child per week plus the cost of field trips.  Farnsworth Park’s summer day camp is from 8 AM-6 PM, and costs $65 per week.  The camps are open to children ages six to twelve.

 

 

 

Sheriff Support Group has golf fundraiser at Brookside Aug. 19

from the Sheriff Support Group of Altadena

Please join the Sheriff's Support Group of Altadena in participating in our inaugural "Golf Classic" which is scheduled for August 19, 2012, at the Brookside Golf and Country Club, located at 1133 Rosemont Avenue, Pasadena. Registration is scheduled for 6:30 A.M. followed by an 8:00 A.M. "shotgun start".

In order to make this a truly great event, the generosity of both businesses and individuals will be vital. Without your generosity and sponsorship, the men and women of the Altadena Community and Sheriff Station would not be able to provide the level of assistance to support the following programs:

Altadena Station Explorer Post #7 (the youth of future law enforcement who endeavor to be better citizens while attending school, working and serving the community of Altadena).

Altadena Youth Activities League (a program to help guide young adults and provide alternative activities away from a path of trouble).

Sheriff's Support Group of Altadena (a group of local business and community people working for the betterment of the men and women of Altadena Sheriff's Station).

Huntington Memorial Hospital Pediatrics

The Sheriff's Support Group of Altadena welcomes any contribution to sustain our participation in the future of Altadena Sheriff's Station youth programs. The proceeds you contributed are tax deductible as we are a 501C(3) organization.

Please do not hesitate to contact the tournament coordinators, Deputy Marc Richardson, Deputy Gregory Gabriel, Deputy Ron Manier or Sergeant Michael Randenberg, at (626) 296-2107.

Morning jolt: a Walmart-free zone

• Fisher seats open: If you're a cowboy music fan who couldn't get in to Saturday's sold-out Juni Fisher concert, fear not -- Bob and Marie Mann of Big Hat Promotions say that there were some unexpected cancellations so there may be a chance to get a seat to see this local favorite.  $45 buys you an intimate backyard concert with Texas-style beef brisket and smoked sausage "with all the trimmings."  For more details, check out www.bighatonline.com
• Scholars:  Kevin Weaver of Altadena graduated from the University of San Diego on May 27, with a bachelor's in business administration; and  Andres Pereda, a sophomore in International Business in Finance,  was named to the spring semester Dean's List at Bryant University in Rhode Island.
• Farmer's Art Market:  Local artist Kathleen Swayden is showing the annual summer group exhibit, "The Famer's Market: From Field to Farm, Market to Table" from June 23-Aug. 18 at Segil Fine Art Gallery, 110 West Lime Ave., Monrovia.  Gallery hours are Tues-Sat. 1-6 PM.
• Vegan:  Altadena Farmer's Market manager Joseph Shuldiner writes on the Chronicle Books blog about eating vegan AND eating well, and shares a recipe from his new book, Pure Vegan.

 

Altadena Sheriff Station has its own web page now

by Timothy Rutt

The Altadena Sheriff's Station now has its own webpage (which looks like it needs a little filling in, but it's the first day!).  Many LA County sheriff stations have established their own web page in recent weeks, which connect the public with general sheriff information and local station news.  Welcome to the blogosphere ...

"Tip a CHIP" at El Cholo in Pasadena benefits Special Olympics tonight

by Timothy Rutt

The Altadena station of the California Highway Patrol is participating in "Tip a CHP" tonight at El Cholo Café in the Pasadena Paseo mall on Colorado Boulevard.

CHP officers will be your servers, and tips will go to help the Pasadena Special Olympics.  "Tip-a-CHP" will go from 5-9 PM tonight.

 

Emerging scandal forces PCC's Altadena board meeting back to Pasadena

by Timothy Rutt

The board of Pasadena Community College, which had planned on meeting in Altadena tonight, will instead meet at their regular site in Pasadena.

A press release from PCC said that, instead of the "listening" type of board meeting they envisioned, they will instead hold its regular business meeting at 7 PM tonight at Creveling Lounge on the PCC campus.  

The meeting was moved, it said, "due to anticipated attendance and limitations with space."  The regular meeting will begin at 6 PM with a closed session.

The change of venue may be due to the emerging scandal of two school administrators who are being investigated for contracting irregularities.  The Pasadena Sun earlier reported that Richard van Pelt of Altadena, the school's top financial executive, and facilities supervisor Al Hutchings were put on leave following allegations that the two secretly formed a company that had been doing business with firms they hired in an official capacity.

Today, PCC Board President Geoffrey Baum released a statement that said the board, in closed session, terminated van Pelt's contract immediately and have recommended the termination of Hutchings, who is a classified employee

 

Contractor's documents say: it's a Walmart

After several weeks of rumor and rife speculation, contractor's bid documents confirm that Walmart is building a grocery store in Altadena

by Timothy Rutt

The contractor's cover sheet for the Lincoln Avenue site sports the Wal-Mart logo.

The whispering has been going on ever since construction started earlier this year at the vacant, dilapidated supermarket site at the corner of Lincoln Avenue and Figueroa Drive: what's going to go in there?  

Biggest rumor: Walmart, which had announced it was going to open a series of Neighborhood Markets, its smaller, supermarket format, in the greater Los Angeles area.  Was the Altadena site going to be one of them?  Walmart wasn't saying; the property owner's representative wasn't saying.  Even though AOL heard that Walmart had contacted the county about conducting an opening ceremony in Altadena, nobody was committing to say that the Arkansas-based chain was planning to put a supermarket at 2408 Lincoln Ave.

L.A. Folk Festival returns to Zorthian Ranch

 

The Jenny Luna Trio performed American songbook favorites at the New L.A. Folk Festival at the Zorthian Ranch on Aug. 6, 2011

by Timothy Rutt

The New LA Folk Festival returns to the Zorthian Ranch on Sat., Aug. 4.

A "save the date" announcement has gone out, and performers and other details (i.e. food trucks) are unknown at this time.  

While this is the third festival, it's the second one at Altadena's famed bohemian ranch.

Arroyo Food Co-op holds composting workshop, still looking for #500

by Timothy Rutt

Altadenablog sponsor Arroyo Food Co-op will hold a workshop and demonstration on bokashi composting on Monday., June 25, at the Next Door Café, 1174 N. Lake Ave., 6:30 PM-9 PM.

Mark and Michelle Rainville will demonstrate the bokashi process, which can create an anaerobic, odor-free, insect free way to compost food waste in a container as small as five gallons.  Bokashi is also a way to compost heavier items like meat, fish and cheese.

The Co-op is also working toward reaching the 500 member milestone, and says in their recent email:  

If you join now, you are automatically entered into a drawing to get that coveted "500th Member" designation. Become a member today and this honor could be yours. And because we can't get to 500 without member 499, we will also be drawing for that spot and giving our 499th member a copy of "At Home Pasadena" as a thank you gift for doing your part to help us make our goal.

But wait! For all you long-time members investing a little at a time, never fear. We love and appreciate you too. And to prove it, if you renew your membership during the month of June, you will automatically be entered into a drawing for a gift certificate to Plate 38, a wonderful, local, and yummy restaurant. We know the way to our members' hearts is through their stomachs, so renew your membership today and let us feed you!

Click here to join or re-invest.

 

Congratulations to Altadenablog's own Emmy-winner Erika McCarden

 by Timothy Rutt

Erika McCarden and her new friend Emmy at the 29th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards

Shout-out to our frequent correspondent and fellow Altadenan Erika McCarden, who won a Daytime Emmy in ceremonies last week.

 

When she's not writing stories for us, Erika works at Riverstreet Productions.  She received her Emmy as Executive Producer for "The Time I ... Got 322 Pairs of Shoes for My Birthday,"  and episode of Disney Channel's "The Time I ..." series.  The award was won in the category "Special Class Short-Form Program."

Full credits are: 

Erika A. McCarden, Executive Producer

Ron Pomerantz, VP/Creative Director, Disney Channel On-Air Promotion

Richard Loomis, SVP, Marketing & Creative

Production House: Riverstreet Productions

 

 

Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy plans Rosemont celebration June 30

The Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy is planning a celebration that starts at Two Strike Park (5107 Rosemont Ave., La Crescenta) on Sat., June 30, to celebrate its acquisition of eight acres of wilderness at the top of Rosemont Avenue.

According to a release from the conservancy, " The land will never be developed, will always be protected as wilderness for birds and wildlife, and will be available as a local resource."

Festivities start with volunteer habitat restoration at 8:30 AM. and continue with docent-led tours at 10:15 AM.   All are welcome at either, but please RSVP here for the restoration portion  because space is limited.

The event will culminate in a ceremony at 11:30 AM, recognizing those who made the acquisition possible and offering a glimpse of what is to come. Light refreshments will be served.

Asian tiger mosquito still active, experts say

from the SGV Mosquito & Vector Conrol District

 

Asian tiger mosquito. Image courtesy UC-Riverside Center for Invasive Species Research.

Experts at the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District are reporting an uptick in invasive Asian tiger mosquito activity last week.

 

This mosquito was first identified in the San Gabriel Valley last September.  In early May of this year, additional mosquitoes were collected indicating that they had survived the winter.   Between May 10 and June 8, the mosquito had only been found at 5 sites in El Monte and 7 in South El Monte.  Last week; 7 new sites were identified in El Monte, 6 of those on Friday, June 15, alone. 

The current infestation is within an approximate three-mile area bounded generally by Merced Avenue to the west, Valley Blvd/San Bernardino Fwy. to the north, and Durfee Ave. to the southeast.  

The District has had a team of 8 full-time vector control technicians working daily in the area since April, and employed the services of an additional 6 California Conservation Corps members through the month of May to assist with our door-to-door inspections and education efforts.  “We are very concerned that even with our considerable efforts in this area, the mosquitoes continue to proliferate,” said manager Kenn Fujioka, “It only takes one container of water in someone’s backyard to breed hundreds of mosquitoes.”

This mosquito thrives in warm weather and can complete its life-cycle in as few as 5 days during summer.  The recent warm spells may have provided conditions favorable to the rapid development of mosquitoes from eggs laid in common outdoor containers.  To break their life cycle, residents must remove all containers that are currently holding water or have held water in the past (where eggs may still reside).  “We recommend residents check their yard for old plastic bins, buckets, tarps, trash, etc. and dispose of unneeded items.  Other items like plant saucers, decorative pots, bird baths, and small fountains should be removed, inverted, or stored indoors,” says Fujioka. 

Immature tiger mosquitoes (larvae & pupae) are often found in vases or buckets where plants are rooting. We urge residents to remove these or contact us so that we may apply a long-lasting treatment to the water.

Used tires provide ideal nursery conditions for mosquitoes.  These should be removed from every yard.  A FREE used tire recycling event will be held Saturday June 23^rd from 9am – 3pm at the Whittier Narrows Recreation Area in South El Monte. For more information, please visit: http://ladpw.org/epd/tirerecycling/collection.cfm.

The District is currently inspecting and treating yards where the mosquitoes are found as well as properties surrounding these sites.  Treatments include source reduction and the use of targeted pesticides for both larval and adult control. 

The District cannot manage this problem alone. “The community must support us by allowing us access to inspect for mosquitoes as well as help by removing all sources of standing water.  This is our small window of opportunity,” notes Fujioka, “If we are not successful now, all of us must forever accept the blame for letting this significant new menace and vector of several significant diseases establish itself in our communities.”

Foothill Water District to purchase new generators, contain costs

from the Foothill Municipal Water District

The Foothill Municipal Water District (FMWD) Board of Directors on June 18, 2012 adopted its budget for fiscal year 2012-13 continuing to contain costs.  For the second year running, the charges Foothill assesses for its programs stayed the same for most agencies.  This comes on the heels of reducing costs three years ago to absorb 75% of the rate increase by Metropolitan Water District for calendar year 2011.  The 5% rate increase adopted by Metropolitan Water District for calendar year 2013 was passed through to customers.  

The Board in considering the budget and water rates has moved forward withdrawing from reserves to pay for large expenditures such as for replacement of emergency standby electrical generators.  The cost for replacement of these generators is estimated at $2 million.  The generators are necessary to run the pumps that lift water to the service area.  During emergencies, such as the recent wind event, electrical backup generators are necessary so that customers do not run out of water.  

“Reserves were built up with the intention of paying for large expenditure capital items such as the replacement of these generators.” said Nina Jazmadarian, General Manager of the District.  “The goal is to avoid rate increases to cover one-time large capital payments.”

“We continue to look at ways to avoid rate increases to customers.” said President of the Board Richard Atwater.  “The Board and staff have worked very hard to control costs.”

Foothill Municipal Water District provides imported water to Crescenta Valley Water District, La Cañada Irrigation District, Mesa Crest Water Company, Valley Water Company, Lincoln Avenue Water Company, Las Flores Water Company and Rubio Cañon Land & Water Association.  Kinneloa Irrigation District, another retail agency, takes no water from Foothill.  

A copy of the budget and budget presentation can be found on the District’s website at www.fmwd.com.

 

Town council June meeting 7 PM tonight

The Altadena Town Council meets at 7 PM tonight at the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Dr.

Not much action to be taken tonight, but there will be a report on the Altadena visioning process and this month's Town Council election (such as it was).

John Hopkins of  Oh Happy Days Health Food Café and Market will also receive a community service award.

UPDATE:  Council recording secretary Greg Middleton says that the report on the visioning meeting has been rescheduled to next montn.

 

Garden party: Altadena Heritage celebrates the gardens of Altadena

 

Altadena Heritage President Mark Goldschmidt, left, gives a Golden Poppy garden award to Sylvie Andrews and Nick Adams-Wright on June 17, 2012. The couple's garden on Poppyfields Drive includes fruit trees and a front yard pizza oven. The Altadena Heritage fete took place at the home of Altadena master gardener Susann Edmonds.

 

 

by Timothy Rutt

Altadena Heritage presented its annual Golden Poppy Awards Sunday afternoon, commemorating the efforts of homeowners and others to create attractive and environmentally-appropriate islands of peace and beauty in Altadena.

Winners included both a young couple that had recently returned to Altadena; a 90-year-old resident who's been working on her garden for over 50 years; and an underground "guerilla gardener" who adopted a neglected plot of land as his own.

The winners -- who are chosen by eight Altadena Heritage members who are assigned a section of town and drive around it looking for interesting gardens -- were announced during the annual Golden Poppy fete, this year held at the home of master gardener Susann Edmonds.

Winners receive a bronze plaque that they can display in their garden for two years.

Golden Poppy winner Carol Blake

Cody Howard, county land near the 2200 block of East Altadena Drive.

 

Howard, a horticulturalist with the Huntington Museum and Gardens, created a garden on a plot of vacant, weedy county land on Altadena Drive.  The garden, of cacti, succulants, and a few trees, is largely only watered by rainfall (see story below).

Sylvie Andrews and Nick Adams-Wright, 451 Poppyfields Drive

The couple are each lifelong Altadenans who met each other at UC-Santa Cruz and, after school, wanted to move back home. Buying a fixer-upper, they fixed up the garden first, adding 15 fruit trees to the yard and a brick pizza oven in the front yard.

Carol Blake, 473 Concha St.

Blake has lived in her fourth home in Altadena since 1975, and always insures she has an outstanding garden.  Her current home on half an acre includes climate-appropriate Mediterranean and succulant plants.

Mary Coppurud, 2781 McNally Ave.

 

Goldschmidt gives a golden poppy to Mary Coppurud, 90.

 

90-year-old Cuppurud moved into her home in 1960,  and has been working on the garden every since.

Mary Ann Yeager, 1722 Morada Pl.

Yeager's 1927 Spanish-style home went through new front yard landscaping starting in 1997, tearing out the lawn and incorporating more climate-appropriate plants and a flagstone walkway.

Paula Delfosse and Robert Gounley, 1738 La Paz  Rd.

The couple remade their landscape, turning the back yard into a desert garden and putting 99% California natives in the front yard. They're planning to incorporate "aquaponics" into their system, which includes a water feature with fish -- the water is cycled from the fish tank through the garden and back to the fish tank, fertilizing the garden and cleaning the fish's water at the same time.

 

Paula Delfosse accepts the Golden Poppy Award plaque, which can be displayed in her garden for two years.

The event also included music by Altadena artist/musican Robert Hilton, who creates his own instruments from found and recovered materials, with percussionist Steven "Breeze" Smith.

 

 

 

Robert Hilton plays music on instruments of his own creation at the Golden Poppy Awards fete.

 

 

Golden Poppy Award goes to "guerrilla gardener"

by Timothy Rutt 

Golden Poppy award winner, guerrilla gardener Cody Howard.

Cody Howard, stealth gardener.

Operating sometimes under cover of darkness, Howard worked to transform a weedy, blasted stretch of Altadena Drive near a sound wall into a drought-tolerant garden -- an effort that earned him  a Golden Poppy Award from Altadena Heritage on Sunday.

What started it was that Howard -- a horticulturalist who works as a conservation technician with the Huntington LIbrary and Gardens in San Marino -- lived in an apartment and couldn't actually grow a garden of his own.  So he decided to create one in a place that everyone else ignored.

The practice is called guerrilla gardening.  Howard says that it was a movement that started in England, where people would take neglected plots of land and turn them --  without authorization or permission -- into flower or vegetable gardens.  The motivations of guerrilla gardeners range from those who want to simply transform an area of ugliness into beauty, to gardeners who are promoting radical ideas of land reform. The guerrilla gardening movement has spread widely, and there is an active movement in LA.

But Howard -- a horticulture graduate of the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville --  just wanted a patch of dirt to plant a garden.  When he saw the area on Altadena Drive south of Canyon Close -- a county-owned stretch of packed dirt and weeds -- he knew that was the spot.

He started on Thanksgiving Day, 2010.  At first, Howard said, he wasn't sure how the project would be viewed, so he did his digging and planting "at the dead of night." 

Howard's garden occupies a stretch of county land on Altadena Drive south of Canyon Close.

As he grew more confident that he wouldn't be arrested, he began working in daylight.  After awhile, the neighbors started noticing him, and some "have actually donated things," Howard said.  It was while he was working in the garden that he was contacted by Altadena Heritage, which gave him the award.

 Howard, who is an expert on cactus and succulents, chose plants that would thrive in hot, dry conditions -- except for a few trees he's planted as part of the project, everything else is watered by Southern California rainfall.

"Almost everything lived," Howard said.  "It shows you don't need water."

After working on it for a year and a half, Howard visits the garden every two to three weeks to weed and water the four plants that require it.  He's sure the garden will survive when, later this year, he goes to Namibia to research plant tissues for the Huntington and as part of his planned Ph.D.

It may be an under-the-radar activity, but Howard's garden has its fans.  In giving the award to Howard, Altadena Heritage President Mark Goldschmidt said, "we need more guerilla gardening."

 

 

Universal Dance Expressions at the Altadena Libraries June 26

Join Dino Mayorga and Lamonte Tales Goode for an interactive dance experience exploring a variety of street dance styles including classic hip hop, b-boying (break dancing), house, and free style as Universal Dance Expressions invades the Altadena Library on Tues., June 26.

Performances will be at 2 PM at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. , and 4 PM at Bob Lucas Branch Library, 2659 N. Lincoln Ave. 

Pasadena police make arrest in Saturday shooting of Altadena man

by Adolfo Flores
Pasadena Sun

Pasadena detectives arrested a 24-year-old Chino man in the shooting of an Altadena man early Saturday.

Vernon Woods faces a charge of attempted murder for shooting Deontrae Lutton, 20, of Altadena Saturday at about 2 a.m. in the 800 block of Summit Avenue.

Lutton continues to be listed in critical condition from the multiple gunshot wounds he sustained in the shooting. Witnesses and other information led authorities to Woods, said Pasadena Lt. Phlunte Riddle.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

 

Rodney King dies: roundup

by Timothy Rutt

Rodney King, whose 1991 beating (and subsequent acquittal of the officers who beat him) sparked the LA riots of 1992, died in the swimming pool of his Rialto home Sunday night.  King, an Altadena resident at the time of the beating,  was a key figure in recent Los Angeles history, and we've got a roundup of some of the news and commentary.

PSN has a good overview.

LA Times coverage.

NYT coverage.

Rodney King and video recording of police misconduct (Cato Institute)

Steve Lopez (LA Times)

 

 

 

Meadows FireSafe Council holds weed removal Sunday

from the Meadows FireSafe Council

The Meadows FireSafe Council invites you to join us on Sunday, June 24, from 12:30-4 PM.  Meet at the El Prieto Road trail access point (next to 4349 El Prieto).  We will be removing fire-prone invasive weeds from our surrounding forest. 

The whole family is welcome, but no children under 16 without a parent or responsible adult.  Bring water and wear closed-toed shoes and long pants.  Bring work gloves, your favorite weeding tools and snacks if you wish. 

RSVP to 626-578-0602 and leave your name, address, phone number and number of people attending.  See you there!

Fun Flick Friday: "The Mysterious Island" June 29

Fun Flick Fridays for summer kick off with "Journey 2 – the Mysterious Island" at the Altadena Main Library on June 29.

Rated PG and starring Duane Johnson, watch the new journey to a place of strange life forms, mountains of gold, deadly volcanos, and more than one astonishing secret.  

The film is free, and starts at 3 PM at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. 

 

It's the Father's Day Challenge thread

We have an open thread going: in one sentence, what's the most important thing you learned from your dad?

The beagle has landed: a dog's life, after the laboratory

Mille the beagle came to her forever home last Father's Day after a life spent as a research animal.  What happens to those animals after they've given their all?  

by Laura Monteros

Sharon Ding holds rescued beagle Millie, with her distinctive bandanna. All photos by Laura Monteros.

Fence neighbors are not always folks.  They can be four-legged critters who love to run out and bark at each other along the back fence.  This is the story of my dogs’ two fence neighbors.

Gus, age 8 and Millie, age 3½, are beagles who were rescued by Altadenan Sharon Ding.  Gus was rescued from a shelter and wears a collar; Millie has the added distinction of sporting a bright pink bandana stamped with “Ask me where I came from.”  She is a walking ambassador for the Beagle Freedom Project based in Valley Village.

Millie came from a research lab in San Jose, where she and eight other beagles had spent their entire lives in cages.  They were rescued by the Beagle Freedom Project, and Ding adopted Millie on Father’s Day, 2011.

“I’m stuck on beagles,” Sharon says, but when Gus’ companion Penny died, she had not intended to get another dog—until she saw a news report on nine rescued beagles needing special homes.   “I thought it was time,” she states.  

Identifying numbers are tattooed in Millie's ear.

Beagle Freedom
When Millie came home, she was timid and frightened, but she loved people from the very start.  During most of our conversation, she sat on Sharon’s lap, and enjoyed being stroked and talked to.  “She pretty much lets me do anything,” Sharon says, such as cutting her nails which Gus does not like to have done.  “It’s part of her upbringing,” as is her tendency to lift her paw when Sharon walks toward her.  “So many do,” she says,  “I think it’s because they gave blood all the time.”

Beagle Freedom Project, a service of Animal Rescue, Media & Education (ARME), was founded by Shannon Keith in December, 2010 when Keith learned that two beagles from a research lab were being given a chance at freedom.  Because of their friendly, docile, and forgiving natures, beagles are the most popular breed for lab use, according to BFP.  They are purchased from breeders who specifically breed dogs for use in scientific institutions.

Though BFP does not divulge the name of the laboratory nor what was done to the dogs, Sharon says, “I understand that about half die from the experiments.  Some are killed when they are done with them.”  Their ears are tattooed by the lab to identify them, the only moniker they have while they live there.  Some have tattoos on both ears, indicating they have lived in at least two different labs.

Father's Day

Yep, it's Father's Day, another Day of Enforced Joy ^tm, but Gloriana Casey makes it easier to swallow ....

" There is Nothing like a DAD!"

from gloriana casey

Whether you're Dad or a Daddy,
Otek, Babba, Abbu,
Your special day is today then,
When---we do honor you!

Vader, Buwa, or Otosan,
Tay or Amu or Pa.
Today's the day when you get a tie,
concert, a hat or a saw!

Young ones think you're from Olympus,
though teens---often guffaw!
When we get older we see then,
you really deserve that awe!

Altadena Junction: the election that almost wasn't, Coach Casey, and the beach bus

Our weekly column in the Pasadena Sun is up, a review of some of the top stories of last week.

Summer kicks in for children and youth at the Altadena libraries

by Cassandra Stearns
Children's Librarian
Altadena LIbrary District

Readers of all ages explore the night this summer as the Altadena Library District presents “Dream Big—READ!” for children and “OWN THE NIGHT” for teens (ages 12-17). Join us for awesome books, weekly events, and cool prizes.

This year’s Summer Reading Programs will run from June 15 through July 31. Free registration begins June 15 and continues through July 24. Visit the library’s website at www.altadenalibrary.org/events for a complete listing of events. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library, the purpose of these programs is to encourage children and teens to get in the habit of reading every day and to spark in them a life-long love of reading and learning. Participation may also help children and teens retain their language skills through the summer.

The award winning Main Library is located at 600 E. Mariposa St. The Bob Lucas Memorial Branch Library is at 2659 North Lincoln Ave. The libraries offer many services including programs for children, teens and adults, a book club, teen advisory board, literacy classes, online tutoring, internet tutoring, passports, public computers and wireless access. To find out more call 626-798-0833 for the main, 626-798-8338 for the branch, or visit the library’s website at http://altadenalibrary.org.

Webster's Fine Stationers' "wine and sign" today

by Timothy Rutt

Altadenablog sponsor Webster's Fine Stationers' monthly wine pairing event features "the wines of La Mancha," with OddBallGrape.com's Anne Bannon and Michael Holland.:

This month, Anne and Mike will lead you though the beautiful Iberian countryside, tasting reds and whites that are perfect for summer. Paired with tapas from a popular local eatery, this event is a spectacular kick-off to Father's Day!

Also appearing will be local businessperson Danica Patton, who is debuting her new book "Where Do We Go From Here?". This will be a Wine & Sign event of great magnitude - come prepared to ask Danica questions about getting out from an underwater home and what happens after. Danica will be here from 4:00 pm on!

And: just found out tapas will be provided by Amy's Patio Café: BBQ beef crostinis, roasted vegetable platter, curried chicken salad cups.

The event is from 4-7 PM.  Webster's FIne Stationers is at 2450 N. Lake Ave. 

 

PCC trustees start "listening tour" in Altadena next week

The Pasadena Area Community College District Board of Trustees invites the community to the first stop of a “Community Listening Tour” on June 20 at 7 PM at the Altadena Main Library Community Room,  600 East Mariposa Street. 

The meeting will be led by Geoffrey Baum, PACCD Board of Trustees president and Area 1 representative, and Dr. Mark Rocha, superintendent-president of Pasadena City College.

This is a regular District meeting so members of the public will be able to see the District's trustees and administration conducting regular business. Shortly after the opening of the meeting, District residents will have an opportunity to offer comments or questions. The Board is particularly interested in hearing how PCC can better serve Area 1 residents (Altadena, La Cañada Flintridge and West Pasadena).

For more information, go to www.pasadena.edu/board or call (626) 585-7202.

 

Pasadena police open limited radio frequencies

by Adolfo Flores
Pasadena Sun

The Pasadena Police Department will allow the public to listen to some emergency calls for service over the department’s radio system, reversing a decision made earlier this year to block public access to the police frequency.

Earlier this year Pasadena police upgraded their radio communications system from analog to digital in order to meet federal standards that wikll take effect in 2013. As part of the $7 million project, police decided to encrypt its main frequency.

Police said blocking access to outsiders would aid police because criminals use information relayed on the scanners to their advantage. Media outlets and radio hobbyists decried the move, saying it would limit the public’s right to know important information.

Police then revised the policy to allow the public access to initial calls, while still barring access to later communications regarding tactics and updates on the emergency.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

Tickets going fast for Altadena's cowboy and western music series

Big Hat Promotions' summer cowboy and western concert series in Altadena starts next week -- but you have to hurry, because it's selling out fast.

Big Hat's Bob Mann says:

Western entertainer R.W. Hampton will appear at Big Hat's concert series in Altadena this summer.

Our Big Hat Summer House Concert Series kicks off next Saturday, June 23 when the incredibly talented Juni Fisher returns for her fourth engagement. 

Juni Fisher is among the nation's top western music performers, touring the country and delighting audiences with her original songs, storytelling and guitar playing. Fisher's talent is boundless and her work has been recognized with an abundance of awards and media recognition for musical excellence including being named 2011 Entertainer of the Year, Female Performer of the Year and  Writer/Singer of Song of the Year by the Western Music Association. Only six seats remain for Juni's show and she always sells out.

Award-winning singer/songwriter Dave Stamey, Western Music Association's 2011 Male Performer of the Year, is our featured performer for our July 7 house concert. Dave's performance is already sold out and we have a waiting list in case of cancellations.

We will close out our summer series on Saturday, July 21 with R.W. Hampton and seats are still available. We feel extremely fortunate to have been able to book R.W. for our house concert series this year. R.W. Hampton is one of the leading Western entertainers in America today. His fans come from all walks of life. He's loved by cowboys, cowgirls, ranch hands and rodeo stars, but also by people who have never seen a cow up close – or cared to. He is today's voice of Cowboy Music.

Blessed with a wonderfully rich baritone voice, R.W. has a quality of genuineness about him that resonates when he's on stage, in person or just through the words of his songs. For R.W. has lived what he sings about, and the world of early mornings, hard work, rough horses, maverick cattle and new ranges fits him. R.W. was born to be a cowboy and he has lived and worked on ranches all over the American West.

Altadena man in stable condition after Pasadena shooting

by Tiffany Kelly
Pasadena Sun

An Altadena man is in stable condition after being shot early Saturday morning in Pasadena, police said.

The incident occurred around 2 AM. in the 800 block of Summit Avenue when two black males in their 20s got into a dispute, said Pasadena Police Lt. Diego Torres.

One man shot the other multiple times in the upper body, he said. He remains in critical but stable condition at Huntington Memorial Hospital.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

"Focus on Fitness" classes start

The bodacious Revvell Revati is starting a new session of fitness classes:

"Focus on Fitness" is an ongoing program: "If you're looking to regain/maintain balance, coordination, flexibility, agility and mobility, join us! Be 18 and older, please," she writes in an email.

Come prepared for movement, mostly outdoors, on time, with water and $10 cash per person.  Revvell is certified in various modalities including Polarity Therapy, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Applied Kinesiology, EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) and more. She's taught movement, reflexology and raw food classes at various locations for over three decades.

Classes are Monday and Friday from 7-8:30 AM and Wednesday evenings from 7-8:30 PM.   For exact location (private residence) and any other information, please email Revvell@gmail.com or call ~ 818-824-4422.

 

Administrators in PCC probe were allegedly running secret business

By Joe Piasecki
Pasadena Sun 

Two Pasadena City College administrators facing a bribery probe were operating a company together without the school’s knowledge and may have been doing business with firms they hired to work on campus, according to college officials.

Richard van Pelt and Al Hutchings, the school’s top financial executive and its facilities supervisor, have been on leave since investigators with the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office Public Integrity Division seized documents and computers from their homes and offices June 7.

Van Pelt and Hutchings have jointly operated a company called Sustainagistics LLC since Jan. 29, 2010, according to the California Secretary of State. Records describe Sustainagistics as an import logistics firm based out of van Pelt’s Altadena home.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

 

Crime blotter: vehicle burglaries, suspected perps caught

An awful lot of vehicle burglaries this week, some centered on the President Streets. Crime blotter by Lt. Michael White of the Altadena Sheriff Station.

Monday, June 4
5:40 PM – A vehicle burglary occurred in the area of Crosby Street. & Lincoln Avenue.  Deputies contacted a male, Hispanic, 23 years, 5'10", 190 lbs., brown hair, brown eyes who was observed pulling on the door handle of a parked vehicle.  During the contact, a victim identified the male as the same suspect who broke into her vehicle a short time prior.  Suspect was taken into custody.   Loss: None.

Tuesday, June 5
Between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM (Wednesday) – A vehicle vandalism occurred in the 200 block of W. Harriet Street.
Between 9:30 PM and 8:00 AM (Wednesday) – A residential burglary occurred in the 1500 block of Creekside Court.  The suspect(s) entered the garage via the unsecured door.  Loss:  grey Panasonic tape deck, silver storage case, grey/blue vacuum cleaner canister. (Items were recovered)
Between 10:30 PM and 11:00 AM (Wednesday) – Two vehicle burglaries occurred in the 1700 block of N. Harding Avenue.  Suspect(s) entered the vehicle by punching the door lock.  Loss:  various cd’s, vehicle registration.
Between 11:45 PM & 8:40 AM (Wednesday) – A vehicle was reported stolen from the 1800 block of N. Harding Ave.  

Wednesday, June 6
5:14 AM – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 1700 block of N. Harding Avenue.  Deputies responded to the area after citizens reported observing a male retrieving item(s) from the trunk of the vehicle.  Deputies detained the male and subsequently took him into custody.  During the investigation, detectives learned  the suspect was involved in several incidents that occurred during the early morning hours.   
Between 9:00 PM and 5:30 AM (Thursday) – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 400 block of Concha Street.  Suspect(s) entered the vehicle by shattering the driver’s side window.  Loss:  black Surefire flashlight, misc. currency.  
Between 5:30 PM and 7:15 AM (Thursday) – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 100 block of E. Las Flores Street.  Suspect(s) entered the vehicle by prying the driver’s side window.  Loss:  black nylon pack with wheels, black sunglasses with case.

Thursday, June 7
Between 8:40 AM and 4:00 PM – A vehicle vandalism occurred in the 800 block of E. Sacramento Street.
Between 10:00 AM and 12:45 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 2400 block of Midlothian Drive.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by shattering the rear sliding glass doors.  Loss:  silverware set, paintings.
Between 9:00 PM and 7:30 AM (Friday) – A grand theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred in the 1400 block of Braeburn Road.  Loss:  black iPad, silver Dell Inspiron laptop.  
Between 11:45 and 8:00 AM (Friday) – A petty theft from two unlocked vehicles occurred in the 400 block of W. Ventura Street.  Loss:  misc. currency.

Friday, June 8
12:15 AM – An unlocked vehicle tampering occurred in the 2600 block of Lincoln Ave.  
1:15 AM – A petty theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred in the 400 block of W. Calaveras Street.  Loss:  checkbook.
6:00 AM – Deputies responded to the area of Fair Oaks Ave. and Terrace St. regarding a possible burglary suspect.  Upon arrival, deputies contacted a male who matched the description.  Upon further investigation, it was learned the male was responsible for several of the incidents which occurred during the early morning hours.  Suspect was taken into custody.  
Between 4:30 PM and 9:30 AM (Saturday) – A residential burglary occurred in the 2500 block of Page Street.  Suspect(s) entered the residence via unknown method.  Loss:  antique silver household goods, platinum diamond encrusted watch with a rectangular face.  (Possible distraction burglary).
Between 8:40 AM and 9:00 AM – A grand theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred in the 1900 block of Pepper Drive.  Loss:  red Honda lawnmower, red leaf blower.
7:50 PM – A commercial burglary occurred at the Arco Gas Station, 1880 N. Lake Avenue.  The suspect entered the location and used an unknown object to break the plastic display of cigarettes.  The suspect was described as a male, African-American, 5'11", 160 lbs., brown hair, brown eyes, wearing a black jacket and dark pants.  Suspect last seen eastbound on New York Dr.  Loss: one pack of Newport cigarettes.  

 

Lost dogs: Russell Terriers Lake/Rubio Canyon [UPDATE: both found]

Reader Claudia has lost her dogs:

We live on Santa Rosa Avenue and Athens. Our two Russell Terriers have gone missing. The female, "Punky" is an escape artist and her best friend "Banshee", the boy, will do anything to be beside her. They are both white in color. Punky has a brown patch over her left eye and ear. Banshee has black and brown patches over both of his eyes and ears. They both have solid black noses. They're very playful dogs and are very friendly with people. Neither are wearing their collar. They were last seen going crossing Lake headed towards Rubio Canyon on Thursday 6/14/12 @ 5:30 PM. If you've seen them please call Robert @ (626) 230-8624 or Claudia @ (626) 676-5087.

UPDATE 6/17:  Claudia says they're home now:

Good News!  Punky and Bashee are safely home!  Thanks to all the Altadena helpful sleuths that took time out of their busy lives in effort to track down this mischievous pair.   We are very grateful to the Loma Vista family that took them in during their weekend getaway.  Most of all, thank you Altadena Blog, we couldn't have gotten the word out fast enough without you.

"Coach Casey" takes on the world

17-year-old soccer star's abilities and compassion propel her mission to help the less fortunate at home and abroad

by Timothy Rutt

 

Altadena's "Coach Casey" Cousineau is ready for Dartmouth, but is it ready for her?

Soccer and her big heart have taken Altadena's Casey Cousineau on a journey around the world.

 

The Flintridge Prep senior, 17, has played soccer almost her entire life -- from AYSO games as a youngster to club soccer since about age 10.  As a player, she has traveled to Kenya and Sweden. 

But as someone who is concerned with others, she has also gone to Nepal and South Africa to volunteer in public medicine. And many know her as "Coach Casey," who coaches teams of disabled adolescents and adults for the Special Olympics.  In fact, her work with the Special Olympics made her the West Coast regional winner of the Lovin' Scoopful ice cream "Lovin' Compassion Award."

Lovin' Scoopful is a premium ice cream company founded by Maria Shriver, Tim Shriver, and partners to benefit nonprofits that support those with intellectual challenges.  Twenty-five percent of the company's profits are donated to the Special Olympics.  The "Lovin' Compassion" awards recognize "young visionaries from around the country who are involved in programs that foster respect, inclusion and a true personal connection for people with differences."

In Casey's case, one of the parents of her athletes nominated her for the award, which was announced in May.  Casey said she received $250 from Lovin' Scoopful to be donated to a charity of her choice.

How did she get involved in Special Olympics?  

NEY wants to give away computers to kids at risk

by Timothy Rutt

This Saturday, Neighbors Empowering Youth (NEY) will donate six computers to families who need them, and give the families a training class on how to use them and practice basic internet security.  

And NEY would like to keep doing it  -- but it doesn't seem like anybody's biting.

"We contacted as many nonprofits in the community as we could," said Normal Smith at NEY.  "We're asking them if they do a mentoring program, and if they do to submit at least six students who need a computer  in their home."

So far the only response has been from NATHA (Neighbors Acting Together Helping All), who identified the six families who will receive computers tomorrow.

NEY, located at 2662 N. Fair Oaks Ave., provides computers and computer training to underserved youth in Altadena and Northwest Pasadena, who are at academic risk and vulnerable to poverty, gang involvement, and unemployment. Smith said that they would like to give away about 50 computers this summer, if anyone will have them.

The computers are donated from Lockheed Martin, and refurbished by NEY's professional technicians.  One of their technicians was a John Muir student  who took NEY's training several years ago -- now he's on staff.

Smith said that they would also give computers to deserving students who are not affiliated with a program, but they need to write a letter giving their situation.  

For more information contact Norma Smith at 626-791-2095.

 

 

Morning jolt

• After the Fox: Pasadena Weekly's Dan O'Heron give a favorable review to our Wednesday morning staple, Fox's Restaurant (ask for the Alicia Special). 
• Gelato:  LA TImes' Jonathan Gold pens another paen to Bulgarini Gelato. 
• Juneteenth: Altadena's hardest-working writer Laura Monteros shares local celebrations of Juneteenth in her most recent Examiner column.
• Farmer's Market: The Clean Plates blog contributes yet another rave review of the Altadena Farmer's Market.

 

Dog gone missing at Chaney Trail campground

Millard Campground caretaker Lonnie Fehr says that a dog was lost in the afternoon/evening Thursday -- "Sacha" is a 50 lb. pit bull, with a collar and a microchip, went missing around Sunset/Mt. Lowe fire road.  If you find him, please call 626-354-0127

Sippel named John Muir principal

by Bill Kisliuk
Pasadena Sun

Tim Sippel, a former assistant principal at John Muir High School and Blair High Shool in Pasadena, has been named the new principal at Muir, Pasadena Unified School District officials announced Thursday.

Sippel replaces Sheryl Orange, who served in the role for four years. He will start in his new duties July 1.

Sippel currently is the director of PUSD’s Linked Learning initiative, which prepares students for vocations and college careers. He was vice principal at Muir when it revamped its academic structure in 2007.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

 

 

Distraction burglars targeting seniors, says crime analyst

This message is going out among the newsgroups from Altadena Sheriff Station's crime analyst, Virginia Cordova:

Just wanted to share some info with everyone. Distraction Burglaries are occurring throughout the county and most are targeting seniors.  As of June 1, Altadena has received two reports of distraction burglaries – the first incident involved three male Hispanics in a dark green pickup truck and the second involved a male Caucasian who claimed to be  with Southern California Edison, in a white pickup truck.  At this time, I’m still trying to verify if the second male was an employee of So. Cal. Ed.  And lastly, please be aware of your surroundings and ask individuals for identification if they claim to be representatives of a company.  

 If you have any questions, concerns, etc…please feel free to contact me via email or phone: 626-296-2110.  

Polyvinyl polyphony

by Timothy Rutt

Above, Michael Greiner calls out instructions to his students as they entertain the crowd at the Altadena Farmers Market Wednesday.  Greiner creates giant marimbas from PVC piping, and holds classes and music camps for young people where they learn how to play these repurposed irrigation pipes.  

Here's a YouTube example of Greiner's troops in action, after the jump.

Loma Alta Park joins Pasadena's "Parks After Dark" program

by Timothy Rutt

Starting July 7, Loma Alta Park in Altadena will join the city of Pasadena's "Parks After Dark" program, offering free recreational, educational, cultural, and family activities for residents.

The programs will take place on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings from 6 PM-10 PM at the parks through Aug. 24.  Programs are geared toward families, teens, young adults, and seniors, providing fun and fitness activities.  Entertainment, such as music and concerts, will be offered -- and there will be free snacks.

Loma Alta activities include martial arts, Zumba, teen club, hip hop dance, adult basketball, cardio stick fighting,  and many others.  There will also be special events, such as an ice cream social,  family sock hop, and performing and fine arts shcwoase.

There will be community meetings to discuss the program tonight, Thurs., June 14, from 6-7 PM at Robinson Park in Pasadena and Wed., June 20, from 6-7 PM at Villa Parke.  

 For more information about these meetings or the program, please call Darrell Walker at (626) 744-7330 or Maricela Galvez at 626 744- 6530.  For more information about the City of Pasadena or to review the Parks after Dark brochure online, go to www.cityofpasadena.net/humanservices. 

Cheryl Conley in concert fundraiser at Sacred Heart Father's Day

 

Cheryl Conley

The Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxilliary is hosting a Jazz Concert fundraiser in tribute to Father's Day, honoring Altadena and Pasadena fathers making a difference in their community. The event this Saturday features a concert by acclaimed jazz vocalist Cheryl Conley.

Leonard Feather, the late jazz critic for the Los Angeles Times, described Cheryl's unique song styling in this way: "Phrasing with sensitivity of a horn player, her intonation--- flawless."

The concert will be on Sat., July 16, from 7-10 PM at  Sacred Heart Parish Hall,  2889 N. Lincoln Avenue.  Donation: $20 

Refreshments will be available.  Ticket information contact:(626)797-3689 or (626)840-3562

"TwentyWonder" Down Syndrome fundraiser in LA July 7

by Timothy Rutt

Yes, this is far afield from where we usually go, but we want to say something anyway:

The Down Syndrome Association of Los Angeles' annual fundraiser, "TwentyWonder: A Carnival of the Mind" will take place at the Doll Factory in LA on Sat., July 7.   Everybody from Joel Hodgson (of "Mystery Science Theater 3000") to Exene Cervenka (X) will be there, a combination of art, science, music, and stuff.

TIckets are $40 ($150 VIP) and are available here.

 

Arroyo Food Co-op looking for lucky 500

Altadenablog sponsor Arroyo Food Co-op says it is getting close to having 500 members, so now's a good time to join:

For those who haven't yet joined: We are getting close to the 500 member mark. If you join now, you are automatically entered into a drawing to get that coveted "500th Member" designation. Become a member today and this honor could be yours. And because we can't get to 500 without member 499, we will also be drawing for that spot and giving our 499th member a copy of "At Home Pasadena" as a thank you gift for doing your part to help us make our goal.

But wait! For all you long-time members investing a little at a time, never fear. We love and appreciate you too. And to prove it, if you renew your membership during the month of June, you will automatically be entered into a drawing for a gift certificate to Plate 38, a wonderful, local, and yummy restaurant. We know the way to our members' hearts is through their stomachs, so renew your membership today and let us feed you!

Click here to join or re-invest.