altadenablog

Make candy sushi at the Lucas Library Wednesday

Turn Rice Krispies and candy into a sweet shushi-like treat at the Bob Lucas Branch Library next Wed., Aug. 29, at 3:30 PM.

The Bob Lucas Branch Library is at 2659 N. Lincoln Ave. 

Registration opens Monday for Oct.-Dec. Tiny Tots at Loma Alta Park

The Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation’s Tiny Tot Program will begin a new session on Mon., Oct.15, 2012 at Loma Alta  and Crescenta Valley Parks. The session runs Monday through Thursday, from  8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., through December 15th

Registration opens on Monday, August 27, 2012, at Loma Alta Park, 3330 North Lincoln Avenue, Altadena, CA 91001, (626) 794-8811 and Crescenta Valley  Park, 3901 Dunsmore Avenue, La Crescenta, CA 91214, (828) 249-5940. The  cost of the program is $40 per week.

The Tiny Tot Program is designed to assist with preparing children ages three to five for a transition to kindergarten. Children learn letters, numbers, shapes, and colors through play. It is a great opportunity for children to develop motor skills, learn and socialize.

 

Found pit, Marengo/Calavaras

Reader Christen sent us this Wednesday:

Last night this scared and very sweet brown/white pit bull showed up in our yard on Calaveras west of Marengo.  No collar (collar in pic is ours).

Can you help him get home? Email: budabonz@gmail.com

Subdued town council meeting looks at trees, planning issues

by Timothy Rutt

In action at Tuesday night’s town council meeting:

Trees on Woodbury: The council voted to send a letter to Supv. Michael D. Antonovich, urging him to put up trees in the Woodbury Road corridor if funding can be found.  The county is already spending $1.3 million improving the median and constructing bike lanes along western Woodbury Road, but residents (led by Altadena Heritage) have proposed adding street trees along the parkways,  the areas between the sidewalks and the street.

Mark Goldschmidt, president of Altadena Heritage, told the council that Woodbury is a gateway to Altadena and generates 40,000 car trips per day.  When Woodbury was widened in the 1960’s, many parkway trees were removed and never replaced.  Altadena Heritage has been urging new planting along the corridor to make a tree-lined gateway to and from west Altadena.

According to council member Diane Marcussen, county public works has surveyed 70% of Woodbury Road and identified a number of locations where trees could go on the parkway.  Placing some of these trees would involve lifting cement in certain places and the need to assure that there is no conflict with utility lines.  In addition, for a tree to go in, there must be an agreement from  the adjacent property owner to take care for the tree as it takes root.

Such a project would be separate from the $100,000 grant to plant replacement trees following the 2011 windstorm.  The county is paying for 208 trees that have been removed from the county’s inventory over the years, not all of them because of wind damage.  Altadena Heritage has expressed concerns that the replacement trees heavily favor locations in East Altadena, instead of the more tree-barren West Altadena.

The letter to Antonovich will also thank him for the tree grant and the landscaping along the Woodbury corridor.

Permit requests: The council approved two conditional use permit requests:  The building on 2511 Washington Blvd. (Phoenix Pharmacy is the major retailer there) is looking to build a new façade on the building and give it a facelift.  The request was to continue to authorize the permit for the building’s mixed use (commercial and residential).  

The council also approved sending along a request for a CUP for the continued operation of the Weizmann School at the Pasadena Jewish Temple, 1424 N. Altadena Dr.  Both requests are being sent on to the county planning commission and finally the board of supervisors, which will give final approval.

Education committee: The council also heard a report from Monica Hubbard of the town council education committee, looking at the goals and plans for the coming year.  One of the particular issues identified in Altadena is the large number of group homes.  Group home students place special demands on classrooms, and often school districts don’t provide adequate resources to meet their needs, Hubbard said.  One of the goals of the committee is to make recommendations for additional support for such students.

 

 

Town council tonight

The Altadena town council meets tonight at 7 PM at the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Dr.

Agenda items are to include the Altadena tree replacement plan and some planning/zoning items. 

UPDATE 1:45 PM: The agenda arrived ... Diane Marcussen of the town council tells us that there was a typo in earlier versions that went public, and the correct address of the CUP property is 2511 E. Washington Dr.  

Intro to Emotional Freedom Technique with Revvell @ the Coffee Gallery Aug. 27

by Timothy Rutt

Are you having problems with excess weight ... relationships ... stress ... self-sabotage?

Get started on tackling those problems and many more with the boadacious Revvell Revati, who will hold an introduction fo Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) and Voice Dialogue next Mon., Aug. 27, at the Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake Ave. at 7 PM.

Entry is $10 with reservation, or $15 at the door -- light snacks and a digital download are provided.  Call 818 624-4422 or email revvell@BodaciousLiving.com to reserve your space.

 

Altadena CERT recognized at training meeting Sunday

 

Congresswoman Judy Chu speaks at Sunday's CERT meeting at the Altadena Community Center. Photo courtesy Altadena Sheriff Station

 

trom the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department

Congresswoman Judy Chu of the 32nd Congressional District recognized the Altadena Sheriff's Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) for their efforts in forming a structured CERT plan and local CERT management team together to build a comprehensive partnership of government, private and non-profits in the area. 

Chu gave the recognition at a CERT training meeting Sunday, Aug. 18 at the Altadena Community Center.

Altadena Sheriff's CERT is one of the fastest growing grassroots community based CERT programs within the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County. With recent events affecting the region, the attention to programs such as CERT have brought renewed growth and interest in family and individual preparedness at home and at work. This effort was made possible with established community leadership from the Sheriff's Community Advisory Committee, Altadena Town Council, and Neighborhood Watch Groups. 

The evenings community meeting also gave the Altadena CERT the ability to have presentations that highlighted and updated information to the audience with representatives from FEMA and the Sheriff's Department. Discussion on topics of communication within CERT and networking throughout the community to strive for better understandings of the complexity of disaster response and recovery efforts and roles of other governmental, private and utility service agencies from the local level up to the federal level. 

Several CERT members recently attended training and brought back information to share from the County Office of Public Health. This material will assist Altadena CERT in enhancing the Department's community outreach efforts in providing educational disaster preparedness classes and lectures throughout the community. 

For postings of our upcoming LASD CERT classes visit the Regional Community Policing Institute-California website at www.rcpi-ca.org 

PUSD reminds us: school starts tomorrow

from the Pasadena Unified School District

As children in Altadena, Pasadena and Sierra Madre prepare to go back to school, officials of the Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) remind families that students will start school on August 22. By the time school starts, immunizations should be up to date, summer reading finished, and school meal applications completed.

Academic options in PUSD have been expanded to prepare students with the skills to succeed in the 21st century. PUSD began phasing in an early start calendar last year to mirror college schedules. Classes begin August 22, 2012 and end June 6, 2013. In 2013-2014, classes will begin August 14 and end May 29, 2014 allowing all students to complete fall classes before the winter break and gain three weeks of instruction prior to taking standardized state tests.  This year, academic initiatives are aimed at preparing students with the skills to compete in the 21st century.

Along with the early start calendar, PUSD offers transitional kindergarten, expanded dual language immersion and added two themed academies to its collection of College and Career Pathways programs in PUSD high schools.

"As a learning community, our focus is on fusing academic rigor with the critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration and creative skills that students will need to compete and thrive in a global economy," said Superintendent Jon R. Gundry.

Transitional kindergarten will be offered at four sites (Washington Elementary, McKinley School, Jefferson Elementary and Willard Elementary) this fall for students who turn five years old between October 2 and December 1, 2012. Transitional kindergarten is the first of a two-year state mandated program that uses a modified kindergarten curriculum that is age and developmentally appropriate.

Found kitten, Alta Pine Drive

Readers write:

A cute black kitty has been hanging around for the past five days on Alta Pine Dr. ,1080 block. Very friendly and has an injury on the right shoulder that is healing. No collar or ID chip implant.  We believe he is a neutered male.

 

If anyone is missing a black cat or knows who this cat may belong to, please notify us. If we can't find an owner we will need to find a good home for this cute and friendly kitty so contact us if you would like a meet and greet.

 

Thank you for your help!

 

lescotton@charter.net

mardesilva@att.net

 

Morning jolt

• Bees: Altadena is of course a beehive of urban agriculture (it's part of the Altadena Food Culture movement) but not everybody is so enamored, either of agriculture or beehives: Mary Catherine O'Connor at Grist reports on some massacres of urban beehives, including hives belonging to Altadena beekeeper Michael Schwartz.  
• Office hours: The Arroyo Food Co-Op is holding "office hours"  at the Altadena Ale & Wine House this Thurs., Aug. 23, starting at 7 PM.  Meet some board members, learn more about the co-op, and support a local business all at once!  The Altadena Ale & Wine House, is at 2329 Fair Oaks Ave. 
• Sharfstein at Purdue: Arielle Sharfstein of Altadena took the first step in becoming a Boilermaker by participating in the annual STAR program at Purdue University's West Lafayette campus.  Summer Transition, Advising and Registration (STAR) is Purdue's program for new undergraduate students to receive academic advice and create their initial course schedule. Incoming students select their one-day STAR session and come to Purdue's West Lafayette campus to conduct this and other important business.

 

School starts at PUSD Wednesday -- here's what you need to know

Here's some back-to-school week information from the Pasadena Unified School District, where school starts Wednesday, Aug. 22:

• Students entering or advancing into seventh grade will need proof of an adolescent whooping cough booster immunization (called Tdap) in order to attend school this fall. For immunization requirements for K-12 students, go to www.health-programs.pasadenausd.orgor call (626) 396-3600 extension 88180. The PUSD clinic will offer free immunizations for students only on August 20 (that's today) from 8:30 a.m. until 12 p.m. at 351 S. Hudson Ave., Pasadena. Immunizations will also be available for students every Monday starting August 27 from 3p.m. to 4 p.m. at the PUSD clinic.

• After school programs are available through the district's Pasadena LEARNs office. For more information, call (626) 396-3614. After school programs are also available through theCity of Pasadena After School Adventures Program. For more information call 626-744-7302or visit cityofpasadena.net/HumanServices/After_School_Playgrounds/

• Families who think that they may qualify are encouraged to apply for the federal free and reduced price school meal program. Applications have been mailed to student's homes and are available at PUSD schools. For more information, contact PUSD's Food Services at (626) 396-5850.

 

Golfers turn out for Sheriff Support Group Classic at Brookside Aug. 19

 

The Captain's Foursome at the SSGA Golf Classic Aug. 19 at Brookside Park. From left, Bill Blankelbock, Ken Crocker, Mike Chew, and Capt. John S. Benedict. Photos by Deb Halberstadt, Half City Productions

by Timothy Rutt

The first annual Sheriff Support Group of Altadena Golf Classic took place on Thurs., Aug. 19, at Brookside Park in Pasadena.  According to Altadena Sheriff Capt. John S. Benedict, the tournament benefits the Altadena Sheriff's Station, Explorer Post 7, the station's Youth Activity League, and Huntington Hospital.  More pictures after the jump.

PUSD Special Ed Committee offers anti-bullying workshop Mon., Aug. 27

 

The Pasadena Unified School District/SELPA Special Education Dept. Community Advisory Committee will resume its monthly meeting on Mon., Aug. 27, with a special invitation for the entire PUSD community.

There will be an anti-bullying workshop with speaker at the meeting, which will start at 6:30 PM at the Edison Professional Development Complex, 119 W. Palm Avenue, Altadena.  Free childcare and translation is available.

Questions and comments can be sent to chair Joy Costello at joycac1@gmail.com

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

 

Wreck N Sow play the Coffee Gallery Saturday night

 

Wreck N Sow at the Sheriff Support Group Concert Series in Farnsworth Park July 21 of this year.

 

 

Join local favorites Wreck N Sow ( featuring Altadena natives Pierre and Andre Dupuy) will play a special concert at the Coffee Gallery Backstage on Sat., Aug. 25, at 7 PM.  

Wreck N Sow, a string quartet, has been presenting their version of country/western/bluegrass music to audiences throughout Southern California for over six years including local shows at The Colorado Street Bridge Party, The Gallery at the End of the World and last month at The Sheriff Support Group’s Summer Concert Series. Saturday will see them in a rare intimate setting, singing original songs and telling good stories and bad jokes. Tickets for the two hour show are $15 and are available through the Coffee Gallery and its website.  Reservations 626-798-6236.”

 

School is starting soon -- keep your kids safe

With school starting soon, if it hasn't already (Pasadena Unified starts on Wednesday), the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (http://www.missingkids.com) offers the following safety tips for parents to discuss with their youngsters: 

• Travel with a friend, or better yet, a group of friends when riding your bike or walking to or from school or other destinations. 
• If a stranger offers you a ride somewhere, say no, and run away. Adults should define "stranger" and give safety tip examples to help youth, especially young ones, know what you mean. 
• If someone follows you on foot, get away as quickly as you can. Go to someone's house you know, or run to other people, or just run away. 
• If someone is following you in a car, turn around and go in the opposite direction or take a path where a car would not go. 
• Never leave school or any other extracurricular activity or event with someone who makes you feel uncomfortable. Moms or dads should tell their youngster that it is okay in these circumstances to not ride home, but that also means adults should have an established communications method along with these safety tip guidelines so that the kid does not end up stranded or alone. 
• If a stranger tells you that there is an emergency or that a family member is hurt or that a pet has been in an accident, always check with your mom or dad or other trusted adults. This is a common trick used by many molesters or kidnappers. 
• For more information about safety tips contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department www.lasd.org , your local police or sheriff's station, or the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at http://www.missingkids.com 

MORE SAFETY TIPS: 

• Adults should establish "safe houses" where kids feel comfortable in knocking on their door at any time a situation warrants it. Be sure to get approval from the neighbors/ homeowners first before designating a home as a "safe house." If possible, have a neighborhood safety tip meeting and have residents agree to watch after one another. 
• Parents should be cautious about blatant use of a child's name on a back pack or jacket. Kids sometimes believe that a person can't be a stranger if they know them by name, when the reality is that their name was easily readable on their attire or the individual heard a youngster's name mentioned. 
• Adults should understand that boys are at just as greatest of risk as girls. It is a common safety tip misconception that child molesters or perpetrators are typically men and seek only girls. Molesters come in all ages and both genders, and their victims can be of either sex. 
• Parents should begin reinforcing these safety tips as soon as a kid is old enough to understand, and above all, ensure that their child feels comfortable enough in discussing these issues, their concerns or fears, or any potentially inappropriate events that have possibly transpired. Awareness of these safety tips can help kids be less susceptible to any stranger dangers. 

 

Last leg ....

We're enjoying the last few days of summer with the family, so entries will be light this week -- we'll be back up to speed soon!

Brian Hughes brings it back home to Farnsworth Park Saturday night

by Timothy Rutt

Brian Hughes. Photo by Gerhard Richter.

Altadena's own Brian Hughes and his band will sweeten the night with music Saturday night as part of the Sheriff Support Group of Los Angeles' summer concert series at Farnsworth Park:

Brian Hughes has carved out an impressive career in the contemporary jazz arena. His first two albums, "Between Dusk and Dreaming" and "Under One Sky," firmly established him as one of the foremost guitarists and composers in the genre, perfectly blending his fluid and emotive guitar style into an exciting, melodic mix of Latin, Jazz and World Music compositions. After being picked as a winner in JAZZIZ Magazine's "Guitars On Fire" competition his subsequent recordings "Straight To You," "One 2 One," "Shakin' Not Stirred," "Along the Way," "Live" and the concert DVD "No Reservations" have received critical acclaim and major radio air play from coast to coast. With his sizzling fret work and infectious compositions the media are accurate in saying: "Both a great artist and an accessible one. His passion is so obvious, intense and contagious, that his audience shares it." Brian has received the SOCAN / BMI "Jazz & Instrumental Composer of the Year" award seven times from 1997 to 2011 and the title track from "Shakln' Not Stirred" was featured on an episode of HBO's "Sex and the City".

Hughes' new release is titled Fast Train To A Quiet Place and features an all-star lineup: Matt Rodhe: Keyboards, (Prince, Christina Aguilera), Tal Bergman: Drums, (Joe Bonamassa, Rod Stewart), Ron Powell: Percussion, (Kenny G, Madonna), and Rufus Philpot: Bass, (AI DiMeola, Jeff Golub).

Hughes is well known for his 25 year parallel career recording and touring with world renowned vocalist Loreena McKennitt ("The Mummer's Dance"). Brian's skills as a musician (guitars, oud, bouzouki) and his production talents are evident on her recent platinum recording "The Wind That Shakes the Barley", the concert DVD "Nights From The Alhambra", filmed in Granada, Spain, and her past eight multi-platinum recordings. Brian has toured the world several times with Loreena, appeared on the "Late Show" with David Letterman and received a Juno (Canadian Grammy) nomination as" Producer of the Year" for his work on her platinum selling album "The Visit".

The Sheriff Support Group of Altadena's Summer Concert Series starts at 7 PM Saturday, Aug. 25, at Farnsworth Park Amphitheater, Lake and Mt. Curve Avenues.  Beer and wine are available through the Rotary Club of Altadena, and El Patron Mexican Restaurant will have food for sale.  Admission is free.

 

 

B. Taggert reception this afternoon at the Coffee Gallery

The current artist at the Gallery in the Coffee Gallery, B. Taggert, will have a reception this afternoon from 5:30-6 PM at the Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake Ave., Altadena

Lisa Haley spreads some "zydecosis" at Farnsworth Park Saturday night

 

Lisa Haley (on the right) and her Zydekats kicked up their heels as they served up a hot gumbo at the Sheriff Support Group of Altadena concert Saturday night in Farnsworth Park.

 

by Timothy Rutt

Lisa Haley and the Zydekats made a hot August night even hotter Saturday as part of the Sheriff Support Group's summer concert series at Farnsworth Park.

The Cajun/zydeco fiddler and her four-piece band did some slow numbers and some fast ones, but it seemed that most of the crowd loved them all.  We have more pictures after the jump.

Heat brings rattlesnake warning

Lonnie Fehr, the caretake at Millard Campground, emails us that the heat has driven rattlesnakes out in search of food in his camp.  Lonnie reports several incidents this month of dogs and humans being bitten.  and of snakes seen by Millard Creek hunting for lizards.  Be careful and watch your step hiking, keep your dog on a leash, and watch your kids.

 

The tarantula hawk is out and about

Matt Wright found this handsome specimen -- and dozens like it -- feeding in one of his blooming hedges.  A trip around the newsgroups identified this as a tarantula hawk (Pepsis sp.).  It's a large wasp -- females apparently have a nasty sting.  Its favorite food -- besides blooming hedges -- is tarantulas.  After paralyzing the big spider, they drag it to its lair, where the female wasp lays a single egg.  The pupa enters the spider abdomen, then feeds on the inside of the spider, avoiding vital organs to prolong its life, before pupating and bursting free from the abdoment as an adult wasp.  Lovely!  But if you don't annoy them, they're quite lovely to watch.

 

 

 

Altadena Junction: ho, ho, ho!

Our Pasadena Sun column is up -- thinking of Christmas is soothing during the dog days!

scissors paper rock has "Girls Night Out" Aug. 21

The scissors paper rock salon (Altadenablog sponsor) will hold a "Girl's Night Out" with skin care specialist Tatiana Siegfried on Tue., Aug 21, from 6-8 PM.  

Enjoy wine & cheese while learning about the basics of skin care. Demos on "how to do your makeup in 5 minutes" for the on-the-go Mom and a "natural student look". This is the place to get all of your skin care questions answered.

Bring a friend who is a new client for a chance to win an extra special product basket worth over $200!

• Door prizes (products & services)
• Discounts on (Pre-Orders)
• Please RSVP on Facebook or call (626)791-5354

scissors paper rock salon is at 1866 N Allen Ave, Pasadena.

Ode de toilet

The story Gloriana's talking about is right here.

" SOLAR FLAIR "

from gloriana casey

Old Al Jolson, he made his fame
by singing "Sonny Boy."
Now Cal Tech has a winner too
in Solar Toilet joy!

A contest ---Gates Foundation made
inventions do abound.
For science to the rescue then
with toilet of renown!

The winning toilet of top 3
$100,000 prize,
from Michael Hoffman of Cal Tech;
ingenious this prize!

These solar panels will power up
electrochemically.
First hydrogen is made and then
chlorine--magically!

Hot, humid weather helps tiger mosquito, West Nile virus carriers

from the San Gabriel Valley Vector Control District

 

The distinctive white and black striping of the Asian Tiger Mosquito. USDA photo.

Vector Control officials warn that ongoing high temperatures and excessive humidity are ideal conditions for both rapid mosquito reproduction and the diseases they can transmit.  Los Angeles County is home to nearly 15 different mosquito species capable of transmitting many pathogens including West Nile (WNV), St. Louis encephalitis (SLE), western equine encephalomyelitis (WEE) viruses, and malaria.  The recent introduction of the invasive Asian tiger mosquito expands that list to include more than 20 other possible pathogens such as dengue and chikungunya viruses.  Hotter, humid conditions allow both mosquitoes and the pathogens they transmit to reproduce and spread faster. 

 

West Nile virus (WNV) is being actively transmitted by mosquitoes (primarily Culex spp.) in both the San Gabriel and San Fernando Valleys.  With hotter temperatures, the virus is able to replicate faster in mosquitoes and can be transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes when they bite.  Mosquitoes typically develop from egg to adult in 7 to 10 days.  Higher temperatures and increased humidity allow mosquitoes to complete this cycle in as few as 5 days.  Since each female mosquito can lay 200-300 eggs at a time in standing water, mosquito populations will explode if breeding continues unabated. 

The introduced Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) prefers humid climates typically found in the southern and eastern United States.  Public Health officials worry that the monsoon-like conditions which are becoming more common each summer in the Los Angeles Basin will provide adequate humidity for this mosquito to thrive here as well. 

A study released by UCLA's Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, Mid-Century Warming in the Los Angeles Region, predicts the San Fernando and San Gabriel Valleys will see warmer temperatures overall, and the number of extreme hot days are projected to nearly quadruple by mid-century. Around the world, numerous studies have shown that climate change has extended both the range of vector populations and the scope of vector-borne disease risks. 

District's Manager Kenn Fujioka states, "We are extremely concerned about the changing tide in vector control today.  Serious outbreaks of WNV occur annually in Los Angeles County, and the prevalence of Asian tiger mosquitoes opens the door for emerging vector-borne diseases to arrive on our doorstep."  Home to one of the busiest airports in the world, new vector-borne diseases can be introduced simply with the arrival of an infected traveler. 

Forest Service agrees to prep for firefighting night flights

by Bill Kisliuk
Pasadena Sun

After years of political tension prompted by the response to the Station fire, the U.S. Forest Service has agreed to begin training crews and preparing helicopters for night flights to battle wildfires, several California lawmakers announced Thursday.

Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Burbank) and other lawmakers have pressured the Forest Service to prepare for night flights since the Station fire devastated 160,000 acres of the Angeles National Forest in 2009, burning nearly 90 homes and killing two firefighters. The Forest Service and local agencies  failed to get enough resources over the fire in its early stages, and the Station fire burned for more than two months.

Forest Service officials discontinued night flights decades ago, citing dangers to airborne crews.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

Trends: Does food culture make Altadena the new Brooklyn?

by Timothy Rutt

Well, with 2.5 million people in Brooklyn, let's hope not!

But, the New York borough is now the epicenter for a hip food scene, with rooftop gardens and craft cocktails among other things -- and of course most national media is New York-centric, so that's where they look first.

So when Bon Appetit's blog has an article titled "Why Altadena, California is the New Epicure's Epicenter," and compares Altadena to Brooklyn, it's worth noting, because they've just discovered that Altadena is the new locavore destination.

They mention the usual suspects:  Gloria Putnam and Steve Rudicel at the Zane Grey Estate; and Joseph Shuldiner of the Institute for Domestic Technology and the Altadena Farmer's Market.  There are also some hip pictures of some of the market's fare.  Left unmentioned or barely touched-on is RIPE-Altadena, the Arroyo Food Co-op, and other experiments such as the Altadena Underground Market and Eatwell Market.

So when do the real scenesters start moving in and our property values start going up?

What do you think about Altadena's new hipster cachet?

 

Crime blotter: more thefts, and some advice on credit card fraud prevention

Lots of opportunistic thefts this week (unlocked doors, delivered packages), some grand thefts (including a car) and a cautionary tale not to leave a ladder out.  Crime blotter provided by Lt. Michael White of the Altadena Sheriff Station.

Sunday, August 5

Between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM – A grand theft occurred in the 1800 block of E. Altadena Drive.  Loss:  Roto tilling machine, (4) lawnmowers, (4) 1936 Ford rims.
Between 9:00 PM and 8:00 AM (Monday) – A petty theft occurred in the 2200 block of Maiden Lane.  Loss:  black Allen Sports bike rack. 
Between 10:00 PM and 8:00 AM (Monday) – A petty theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred in the 1200 block of E. Mendocino Street.  Loss:  black Android cell phone.
Between 12:30 AM and 10:00 AM – A vehicle vandalism occurred in the 1700 block of E. Oakwood Street, Pasadena.  

Monday, August 6
Between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM – A petty theft occurred in the 1000 block of Marcheta St.  Loss:  packaged Dell XPS 8500 laptop. ***The victim left a note for the delivery company to leave the package at the residence without a signature***

Tuesday, August 7
2:34 PM – A robbery occurred at All Star Liquor, 2421 N. Lincoln Avenue.  Suspect male, black, 40 yrs, 5 ft. 9 in., 190 lbs., shaved head, black eyes, walked into the convenience store and retrieved a bottle of beer.  As the suspect approached the exit, the victim asked the suspect to pay for the item.  The suspect pushed the victim and attempted to strike him with the beer bottle.  Suspect last seen running out of the location.  
Between 11:30 PM and 10:00 AM (Wednesday) – A vehicle was reported stolen from the 300 block of W. Loma Alta Drive.  

Wednesday, August 8
Between 1:45 PM and 3:30 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 2600 block of Porter Avenue.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by placing a ladder under the window and removing the window screen.  Loss:  various jewelry items.
Between 6:25 PM and 10:10 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 2100 block of El Molino Avenue.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by tearing the window screen.  Loss: black Vizio LCD, black Fujitis laptop, white Xbox 360 game console, silver Mac notebook, personalized jewelry items, gold & black leather men’s watch, pearl necklace.

Thursday, August 9
Between 10:00 PM and 6:45 AM (Friday) – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 400 block of E. Woodbury Road.  Suspect(s) entered three cargo trucks by damaging the padlocks.  Loss:  blankets, ramps, dollies, wheelers, straps.

Saturday, August 11
Between 11:00 AM and 1:30 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 1400 block of Edgecliff Lane, Pasadena.  Suspect(s) entered the location by shattering the rear window.  Loss:  unknown at this time.

"Go Public" goes live with a day in the life of Pasadena Unified School District

K/1st Grade Child with Down Syndrome from Go Public on Vimeo.

Rosie's video on Go Public.

by Timothy Rutt

"Go Public," the project to record a day in the life of the Pasadena Unified School District, went live Wednesday night when 50 short films became available to watch online at the website.

On May 8 of this year, 50 film crews -- everyone from experienced filmmakers to students -- spread out to all the schools in PUSD to record a day in the life of their subjects.  The subjects of the minidocumentaries included students, teachers, administrators, school psychologists, and many more examples of the people who make public education tick.

The brainchild of producers James W. and Dawn O'Keeffe, they say in their mission statement: 

This project is important now because too much focus has been placed on what is broken in public school education. There is room for improvement, but we also want to capture the good things that go on every day in our public schools, the teamwork it takes and the textured richness for those involved. By telling the stories of individuals that work and participate in the schools, we will encourage viewers to become informed and compassionate advocates for their community public schools.

Among the Altadena subjects:  Whitney Reese, a teacher at Jackson Elementary; Maura Large, librarian at Eliot Middle School; Gloria Reynolds, volunteer at Altadena Elementary; Gustavo Alonzo, student at Eliot; Esther Chun, teacher at Franklin Elementary; Samantha Gale, student volunteer at Altadena Elementary; and Altadena resident Rosie Rutt, student at Sierra Madre Elementary.  (We had a look at Rosie's filming day here).

The eventual plan is to combine the 50 stories into a single two-hour film.

 

 

 

Lisa Haley and the Zydekats spice up Farnsworth Park Saturday night

by Timothy Rutt 

Lisa Haley returns to Farnsworth Park Saturday night.

Lisa Haley and the Zydekats return with some ragin' Cajun goodness to the Sheriff Support Group's summer concert series Saturday night.

According to their press materials:

Since beginning in 1995, Lisa Haley & the Zydekats are today the world’s most beloved Americana/Cajun/Zydeco band.

With her blue violin and soaring, compelling “cornbread” voice, Lisa’s original tunes and Louisiana Bayou, French Celtic, R&B and Jazz rhythms endear this fourth-generation fiddler, dancer, vocalist, and songwriter to all ages. Among her fans are Keb’Mo’ and Little Richard.

The most joyful Americana/Cajun/Zydeco act on tour today! Prepare to catch “Zydecosis!”

If this year's performance is like last year, it's one of those fill-up-the-dance-floor evenings, so make sure you're wearing the right shoes!

The Sheriff Support Group of Altadena's Summer Concert Series starts at 7 PM Saturday at Farnsworth Park Amphitheater, Lake and Mt. Curve Avenues.  Beer and wine are available through the Rotary Club of Altadena, and El Patron Mexican Restaurant will have food for sale.  Admission is free.

 

 

 

Morning jolt

• Happy President Streets birthday: Happy fifth birthday to the President Streets Yahoo Group, a vital component of life there -- if your neighborhood doesn't have a discussion group through Yahoo or Google or a web page, you're missing out on good stuff!!  If you're in the President Streets neighborhood and aren't a member, start here: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PresidentStreets/
• I can haz bath: Local resident Caroline Rodriguez has started her own business, Laundromutts Mobile Pet Grooming.  Rodriguez has been grooming pets for four years now, and thinks it's time to strike out on her own. Got a dirty dog (or cat?) Contact her at www.laundromutts.com; caroline@laundromutts.com or call 818-588-5381.
• Bulgarini Gelato Italian dinner and a movie, "Tai-Toi," (Shut Up!) is the film of the week.  Movie is free, and begins at dark. Dinner will be offered - by reservation only - for $13.50, which will include a homemade pasta dish, salad, and a drink (dinner starts at 7:30). Gelato available throughout. Reservations may be made by Friday (the day before the film) by email at catering@bulgarinigelato.com or by calling (626) 376-7662.
• Boom!  Jamie Bissner has a theory that the mystery booming we hear from the north may be tests of this new aircraft out of Edwards AFB.  Sounds plausible, but we'd hate to totally lose the mystery ...
• Every dog has his day:  Dr. Barkman tells us that today is the feast of St. Roch, the patron saint of dogs (and we thought it was St. Bernard!)  "The least we owe them is to live a life that is worthy of their devotion..."  indeed!

 

MonteCedro sponsors two evenings of blues in August

MonteCedro, the planned continuing care retirement community in Atladena, is hosting a "BBQ and Blues Celebration" on Aug. 21 and 29 in honor of National Senior Citizens Day.   San Gabriel Valley residents are invited to explore their southern roots as they listen to soulful melodies of blues while enjoying savory BBQ favo

Solid Ray Woods and Allan Wasserman Blues Band will be performing a variety of songs by legendary musicians such as Little Walter, Sam Cooke, Van Morrison,  Freddy KIng and Hound Dog Taylor. Also, Big Mama’s Rib Shack will be spicing up the evenings with delicious southern comfort food. A $100 Gift Certificate to Big Mama’s Rib Shack will be raffled off to one lucky attendee.

Space is limited for this event. Both nights start at 5:30 PM at the MonteCedro Presentation Gallery, 153 E. Holly St., Pasadena. To register, please visit www.montecedro.org or call  877-282-1584.

Machao Orphanage benefit concert with Incendio Sat. at Ambassador Auditorium

by Timothy Rutt

Latin fusion group (and frequent Coffee Gallery performers) Incendio will headline a Pasadena benefit for the Machao Orphanage in Kenya Saturday night.

The benefit concert is scheduled for 6 PM Sat., Aug. 18, at Ambassador Auditorium on the grounds of Maranatha High School, 169 South Saint John Avenue, Pasadena.

Maranatha High School http://www.maranatha-hs.org/ and the Pasadena Police Department, www.cityofpasadena.net/police, are the co-hosts of this event.

Tickets are available on the website: www.machaobenefitconcert.com, at $30.00 and $10.00 for students. VIP tickets are $100.00 and include VIP seating and a Pre-Reception.  

All funds received, less minimal production costs, will go to benefit the United Nations Association and the Machao Orphanage in Nairobi, Kenya, Africa.

The mission of UNA Pasadena's Chapter is to host local events and programs aimed to educate the community about the vital work of the UNA. The focus is on local allies' support of the Millennium Development Goals, which include the eradication of poverty and hunger, the promotion of gender equality, the end of HIV/AIDS and other diseases, and to move toward environmental sustainability.

Summertime

... and we're counting the hours until school starts (next Wednesday!)  So things'll be a little light until then!

"May the Fold Be With You" this afternoon at the Library

by Timothy Rutt

You're looking for a reason to get the kids in some air conditioning, aren't you?  The Altadena Main Library will have an origami extravaganza this afternoon at 4:30.  

Make Yoda and Darth Paper origami puppets from Tom Angleberger's popular Origami Yoda book series -- and they'll be raffling off copies of hew new book, The Secret of the Fortune Wookie.

It starts at 4:30 at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. 

Library talk helps prepare you for the "big one"

from the Altadena Library

Are you ready to survive a major earthquake that may well rock Southern California to its core? Come hear Cal Tech Seismic Network Manager, Richard Guy explain what you need to know on Tuesday, September 11, 7 PM at the main Altadena Library. Learn how you can get earthquake email notification, other resources available to you, and, if you qualify, be given your own home seismic sensor for free.

That coming quake may be even bigger than previously expected. To develop your own strategic plan, be sure to attend this free lifesaving event! Altadena Main Library is located at 600 E. Mariposa Street.  More information: (626) 798-0833 or www.altadenalibrary.org.

 

 

Morning jolt: G'bye to Dan Patch

• Dan Abendschein, the local editor for the NYC-based Patch chain of websites owned by AOL, is moving upstairs to the assistant regional editor's role.  Our friend the Altadenahiker Karin Bugge (an actual Altadena resident!) will be filling in until they name somebody permanent.  We wish him luck, and no, we're still not interested.
• Altadena Farmer's Market stalwarts Plow & Gun Coffee are the subjects of this LA Weekly profile.
• Reader Kristin Petherbridge alerts us to an interesting event in Pasadena:  "The 2nd Repair Cafe will be on Saturday, August 18th, 8:30am to 11:30am at Jones Coffee. This event will focus on the repair of small appliances and electronics. We have some very talented Repair folks lined up, so find that blender that won't blend or a toaster that won't toast and bring it on down for a consult or repair. In addition, we will have someone on hand to sharpen knives and a DIY stencil station to print the Repair Cafe logo on your apron or tee-shirt."  Jones Coffee is at 693 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena. Repairing appliances is environmentally-conscious, and appealingly retro at the same time!

 

Can you help a pigeon?

We need a good Samaritan in a hurry -- reader Susan sent this:

I found a baby pigeon in our backyard this morning.  I believe it fell from a nest that's too high for anyone to reach safely.  It's still outside because I was hoping it would somehow fly away, but I did some research and it looks to be only about three weeks old (and therefore still in need of care).  I read that pigeons will not abandon a baby pigeon in the nest to care for one that has fallen to the ground, so I'm afraid this little guy will not make it.  I am reaching out to see if anyone who has experience caring for a baby pigeon will take the little guy.  If so, please contact Susan at law@susanylee.com as soon as possible.  Thanks for your help!

NFL at Rose Bowl would bring increase in noise, traffic, pollution report says

By Adolfo Flores
Pasadena Sun

Pasadena would see a significant and unavoidable increase in noise, traffic and air pollution if an NFL team were to play at the Rose Bowl for up to five years, but the most severe impacts would be temporary and manageable, according to a report released by the city Thursday.

The environmental report is required as city officials explore the possibility of hosting an NFL team temporarily while a permanent stadium is built elsewhere in the region. Officials commissioned the report on the chance that a team will relocate to Southern California, a decision that is up to the NFL.

Pasadena voters have previously rejected a bid to bring an NFL team to Pasadena permanently, but Rose Bowl and city officials say hosting a team at the stadium that already is home to UCLA football and the annual Rose Bowl game could provide a significant economic boost.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

Food truck event at Altadena Baptist Church Saturday night

Spend a relaxed summer evening at Altadena Baptist Church next Saturday, Aug. 18, for another "Food & Fun" food truck event.

Scheduled food trucks include Tortas 2Die4, Auntie's Fry Bread and Kona Ice.

There will also be music and children's activities at this family event, which will be held from 5-8 PM at Altadena Baptist Church, 791 E. Calavaras St.

 

 

It's wonderful to be here, it's certainly a thrill

 

The Mersey Beat sounds of Sgt. Pepper got the crowd dancing at the Farnsworth Park concert Saturday night. Photos by Bill Westphal

by Timothy Rutt

British pop tribute band Sgt. Pepper wowed the crowd Saturday night at the Sheriff Support Group Summer Concert Series at Farnsworth Park.  Us aging boomers (and our kids, and maybe grandkids!)  had a chance to relive those thrilling days of youth -- yeah, yeah yeah!

Returning to our pages after a too-long absence is Altadena's own Everywhere Man, Bill Westphal, who took some pictures of the event in the slideshow below.

 

 

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Co-op celebrates 500 members with locavore dinner

 

Arroyo Food Co-op members celebrate with the first locavore dinner Sat., Aug. 11.

 

by Timothy Rutt

The Altadena-centric Arroyo Food Co-op -- which has just gone over 500 members -- celebrated in style Saturday, Aug. 11, with what it hopes is the first of several locavore dinners:  locavore in that most of the food came from local sources, in keeping with the co-op's sustainable philosophy.

Co-op board member Alex Berrie staffs the bar and holds the picnic basket that was a prize in the opportunity drawing.

Held in a stunning garden in a private Altadena home, the dinner featured a roasted summer corn and nectarine salad, a green salad with walnuts, strawberries and baked goat cheese rounds, charred green beans with lemon verbena pesto, violet roasted potatoes with garlic, rosemary, and Meyer lemons, grilled stufffed Portabello mushrooms (for the vegans ) and "Arroyo Sliders" (grass-finished organic beef with port wine carmelized onions, local cheese, mache greens and zebra tomatoes, served on toasted challah bread) for the carnivores.  Dessert was a peach blueberry crisp and coffee and tea from Jones Roasters of Pasadena.  

Diners mingle before the dinner begins.

The menu was prepared by Nicole Fox, and food was provided by Dey Dey of Buellton (beef), Bill's Bees of Tujunga Canyon (honey), Weister Family Farms, Ellwood Canyon Farms, Kenter Canyon Farms, and Etheridge Ranch Organics (frequent visitors to the Altadena Farmer's Market).  Libations included organic wines from California and a Cardamom Greyound artisan cocktail (fresh-squeezed grapefruit, cardamom-infused agave, lime twist, and triple distilled vodka).  

 

Co-op co-founder Patrick Reagan said that the board had toured a promising potential market location in Altadena and unvelied a floor plan.  Reagan said that the co-op would soon be seeking financing for market construction, starting first among the members.

For more information or to join the Arroyo Food Co-Op, visit their website.

 

As night falls, diners enjoy conversation and locally-raised fare.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Crime going up in Altadena, sheriff's report says

by Timothy Rutt

According to figures released by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, the crime rate in Altadena is going up significantly in selected areas.

Overall, violent crimes are down 5.6 percent, although reports of forcible rape have gone up 20.4 percent over last year.  Part 1 nonviolent crimes are up 29.3 percent in the past year, with the major spikes in burglary (36 percent) and felony larceny (29.9 percent).

According to the monthly report from community volunteer Carolyn Seitz,  the Altadena sheriffs are reporting "in almost all incidents of forcible rape, the suspect or suspects were known to the victim, and forcible rape is sadly one aspect of domestic violence."

As for the increase in property crimes, they mostly come from residential and vehicle burglaries, Seitz said.  "We continue to see these increasing rates in Altadena, in no small part because residents continue to carelessly leave valuables in plain sight in their vehicles and leave vehicles parked out in the open, not in a locked garage.  The combination of easy access - on the street or in a driveway, and purses, wallets, cameras, phones, computers, iPads or other tablets or readers, MP3 players, designer sunglasses, currency, coins, credit cards and gps devices in plain sight, leave us easy prey."

The complete 119 page report from the sheriff's department is here:  http://file.lacounty.gov/lasd/cms1_148405.pdf.  Crime stats for Altadena in July are available after the jump.

Public safety: earthquake advice

by Carolyn Seitz
cmseitz@mindspring.com

If you're among those people who've had an interest in earth science and in earthquakes in and around Southern California, you already know that historically, we go through periods of a few years with earthquakes of relatively light magnitude, no property damage, no injury, and with little attention paid since relatively few people feel them.  In my own mind, I've called these periods "quell" periods.

Conversely, we go through periods lasting a few years during which we experience greater numbers of earthquakes at higher magnitudes and in these periods of time, we generally experience at least one earthquake that causes a great deal of property damage, loss of life, injury and tremendous adverse impact on business and quality of life for many. Technology doesn't yet exist that allows us to predict specifically when each of these periods will begin or end.  

More and more attention is being paid to preparedness, and the message about preparedness stresses that we, as individuals and families, be prepared to take care of ourselves.

Baroque music in a garden setting with Tesserae at the Folly Bowl Aug. 25

by Timothy Rutt

Tessarae, which Folly Bowl impresaria Suzanna Dadd says presents "exquisite museum quality interpretations of baroque music," will perform at the backyard amphitheater on Sat., Aug. 25 at 7:30 PM.  The Folly Bowl is at 1601 E. Loma Alta Drive, and suggested donation is $15.

Poetry corner: it's not the heat -- no, wait, it IS the heat!

" DOG DAYS  Delirium"

from gloriana casey

Oh Sirius, you scorcher  star,
with your companion Pup!
My brain is reeling from the HEAT!
Dog Days are all mixed up.

 I saw a poodle on the road,
my brain  began to muddle.
For poodle ---right before my eyes,
turned into ----a puddle!

Then next  I saw a  Pharaoh Hound,
Anubis---- jackal dog.
The underworld just opened up
and HEAT rose like a fog.

The whippet ran around the lawn--
so quickly he did go.
He turned into a cooling treat
of melon gazpacho!

Sunday reading

Our column at the Pasadena Sun is up -- Danny's Farm run and more!

Dog is lost and found at the same time [Update: All is well! Rocky's home!]

One of the things we hate most are those screening programs, where we respond to an email and get a message that says something like "to control spam, we only reply to pre-approve email addresses" or something like that, which says no, we're not accepting your email.  

This is a cautionary tale of how it can go wrong.

Tim and Susan sent us this:

Red-brown chow mix dog lost Saturday, August 11, early afternoon from 1700 block of N Craig Ave.  Name is Rocky, has a silver chain collar.  Please call 626-673-0806 if seen.

And reader Trish sent us this:

I found a male chow wandering down Altadena Drive about a 1/2 mile up from the Eaton canyon entrance. He had a choke collar but no tags. I walked the neighborhood for a bit looking for a frantic owner but had no luck.

He is well behaved, groomed, clean teeth and has nice pads. Im sure he wasn't out to long. With the heat as it is, I took him home to give him a safe, cool place to wait for his owners. 

Can you put a posting up to help me find his people?

361.728.7399 is my cell

(Trish sent us the picture)

We decided to handle this thru email -- but both party's email addresses rejected our response.  So we're handling it online.  One of you needs to call the other and get Rocky home!

 

Crime blotter: grocery stores and collectible coins

Grocery store thefts and the loss of valuable coins break up the usual round of thefts from residences and vehicles this week.  Crime blotter provided by Lt. Michael Allen of Altadena Sheriff Station.

 Sunday, July 29
9:31 AM – A petty theft occurred at Ralph’s 2270 N. Lake Ave.  Loss: items recovered. 

7:45 PM – A shoplifting incident occurred at Ralph’s 2270 N. Lake Ave.  Suspect was arrested and items recovered.

Tuesday, July 30
Between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 800 block of E. Sacramento Street.  Suspect(s) entered the location by prying the rear door.  Loss:  (3) bottles of wine.

Wednesday, August 1
Between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 2100 block of New York Drive.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by cutting the window screen.  Loss:  plastic cup containing currency.
4:45 PM – A commercial burglary occurred at Super King 2260 N. Lincoln Ave.  Suspect was arrested and items recovered.

Thursday, August 2
Between 8:00 AM and 12:00 PM – A petty theft from a vehicle occurred in the 300 block of Deodara Road.  Loss:  black Thule bicycle roof rack.
Between 3:30 PM and 7:00 AM (Friday) – A grand theft occurred in the 1700 block of E. Altadena Dr.  Loss:  silver/green Hitachi rotor hammer, blue Makita drill, blue Makita jackhammer.

Friday, August 3
9:25 AM – A vehicle was reported stolen from the 1700 block of Harding Av.

Saturday, August 4
A grand theft occurred in the 1200 block of E. Palm St.  Loss: gold  Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem medallion, gold coin w/cross, bronze coin w/cross, (500) Vatican coins, wooden box containing (500) misc. coins dated 1800’s to 1943, black attaché w/100 pieces of ivory & (50) pieces of jade. Incident occurred sometime in July 2012.

"Putting people before profit" at Coffee Gallery discussion Monday

Truth In The Public Interest and The Coffee Gallery present "Conversations Worth Having Part 2: Putting people before profit" on Mon., Aug. 13, from 7-9:30 PM.

Hosted by David Barker, the meeting promises "ideas plain enough to be understood in high school, hidden enough to not be taught in graduate school, and provocative enough to prevent them from becoming public knowledge."

The discussion we will address:

• What is money?  How, why, for whom and by whom is it created?
• What a “debt-based monetary system” is and why it matters.
• What is the Fed?  Are they public or private, profit or non-profit?
• What happened in Worgl, Austria in 1932 in the middle of the Great Depression, what it means and why you haven’t heard about it.
• What constitutes real value in an economy and a society

Where:  The Coffee Gallery, 2029 Lake Ave. Altadena, CA 91001

Suggested exchange:  $12 w/reservation, $18 at the door.  RSVP to 213-393-3283 or email essencequest@hotmail.com