« August 2012 | Main | October 2012 »
Reader Veronique writes:
A tame white dove landed on our deck in North East Altadena / Rubio Canyon area Thursday night. It is trying to get into the house and clearly used to being with people and children. It is missing some tail feathers.
If you know anything about where this bird belongs please call 626 798 2904. Thanks
| |
|
by Timothy Rutt
Space shuttle Endeavour's final flight is scheduled for this morning as it takes off from NASA's Dryden Flight Research Center near Edwards Air Force Base.
According to NASA, the final flight of the shuttle was delayed an hour from the previous announced schedule to allow the fog to clear from San Francisco, which will be one of the locations the shuttle will fly over today. Other Northern California locations include Sacramento and Monterey.
The latest schedule calls for the shuttle to fly over JPL sometime after 11:30 AM. It will also hit the Griffith Observatory, Disneyland, the Getty Museum, and Venice Beach on its Southern California sweep before landing at LAX approximately 12:45 PM.
After landing at LAX, Endeavour will be removed from the modified 747 carrier aircraft and undergo several weeks of preparations in a United Airlines hangar. Then, it will travel 12 miles through Inglewood and Los Angeles streets to its new permanent home, the California Science Center, where it is schedule to arrive Oct. 13.
The shuttle will be on display at the science center's new Samuel Oschin Space Shuttle Endeavour Display Pavilion starting Oct. 30.
A press release from NASA says:
Endeavour was the final space shuttle built, and was constructed from orbiter vehicle structural spare parts as a replacement for space shuttle Challenger. It completed 25 missions between 1992 and 2011, spending 299 days in orbit and orbiting Earth 4,671 times while traveling 122,883,151 miles. It was named after the British sailing ship HMS Endeavour, which Captain James Cook sailed on his first voyage of discovery.
Social media users are encouraged to share their Endeavour sightings using the hashtags #spottheshuttle and #OV105, Endeavour’s orbiter vehicle designation.
Are you planning to see it? Share your pictures of Endeavour with us at altadenablog@gmail.com.
NASA TV will provide live coverage after 11 AM here.
Official NASA Flickr feed here.
Members of the public have a Flickr feed here.
UPDATE 10:30 AM: we're in Sacramento for the day -- about 10 AM, the pilot of our flight pointed out Endeavour heading southbound, so we can at least say we saw it!
| |
|
We're on the road to Sacramento and back today -- hope maybe we'll cross paths with Endeavor on the way!
UPDATE 10:30 AM: writing from the Sacramento airport -- about 10 AM while in the air, the pilot told us to look out the portside windows, and there she was (20 miles away and looking like a white dot, but it was Endeavour). On her way to SoCal, so get some good pictures, everybody!
| |
|
Latino Heritage, the organization that celebrates the history, arts, and culture of Latinos in Pasadena and the San Gabriel Valley, will hold the 14th Annual Latino Heritage Parade and jamaica on Saturday, October 6, 2012 in Pasadena.
More than 1,500 children, families and residents are expected to attend the partner events, held in Pasadena’s northwest neighborhood.
The parade begins at the intersection of Los Robles and Howard Street, turns west on Washington Blvd. and continues to the jamaica at La Pintoresca Library and Park at Washington and Fair Oaks Avenue.
This year’s theme of Planting Dreams: Sembrando Sueños celebrates 1840-1860 era, when the culture, government and lifestyle were altered by the incorporation of California into the United States.
Leading the parade as grand marshal is celebrated author and scholar David Hayes-Bautista, Professor of Medicine and Director of the Center for the Study of Latino Health and Culture at the School of Medicine, UCLA. Following the parade, Dr. Hayes-Bautista will sign copies of his latest book, El Cinco de Mayo: An American Tradition, published in 2012, which examines the holiday that was created by Latinos in California and the West during the mid-19th century to commemorate the Battle of Puebla in Mexico.
The parade leads to the jamaica (pronounced ha-my-ca) as traditional community fairs are called in Spanish. The jamaica, at Pasadena’s La Pintoresca Park and Library, features arts and crafts for preschoolers and teens, historical displays, ballet folkórico, food, storytellers and book signings by local authors.
The parade’s Community Grand Marshal this year is Pasadena restaurateur Abel Ramirez, a longtime supporter of Pasadena area arts, culture and schools. His restaurants, El Portal, Yahaira’s Café and Vanessa’s Café have been named “Best Yucatán & Mexican Restaurant in Pasadena” and “Best Margaritas & Best Selection of Premium Tequilas” by Pasadena Weekly. The recipient of this year’s Doña Eulalia Award, which honors Eulalia Pérez de Mariné, is Superintendent Steven Gray, Ph.D. representing Pasadena Christian School. They are receiving the award from their continued support of the Latino Heritage Parade and jamaica.
Free arts and crafts workshops are offered by the Armory Center for the Arts, Latino Heritage, Marshall High School Puente students, and the Human Services and Recreation of the City of Pasadena.
The parade and jamaica are sponsored by Latino Heritage, a volunteer organization that promotes cultural events and educational opportunities to create bridges between communities and generations through the cultural and educational programs. The Latino Heritage parade and jamaica are underwritten by private donations and sponsors, with support from the City of Pasadena.
The parade starts at 11 AM, Sat., Oct. 6, at Howard Street and Los Robles Avenue in Pasadena, and the jamaica runs from noon to 4 PM La Pintoresca Park, 45 E. Washington Blvd. (at Fair Oaks Ave.), Pasadena.
| |
|
The Haggus Society in collaboration with Julie Montenegro/ State Farm happily present "The Secret Paraphernalia Of Patrick Gothard"
A self-taught, self-styled painter, Altadena artist Patrick Gothard is one of the area's most prolific artists. With an almost Seuss-like approach, Gothard presents us with a colorful sense of wonder and whimsy making even some of the more difficult topics easily accessible.
Exhibition October 1 through Oct. 30, with opening reception Sat., Oct. 13, 6-10 PM.
| |
|
by Pauli Dutton
Principal Librarian
Altadena Library District
When Caltech Seismic Network Manager Richard Guy spoke at the Altadena Library last week he knocked our socks off! His films of recent earthquakes and simulations of what could happen here were shocking. He convinced us NOW is the time to get ready and he gave some excellent low cost ways to do so. Besides his great preparation tips, Guy also offered everyone at the event free earthquake monitors. All that is required to use it is a stationary computer with an unused USB port.
To enable an early warning system for our area 1,000 Altadena/Pasadena residents need to place one of the monitors, which is about the size of a pack of cigarettes, in their homes or businesses. The library signed up and so did I. [Ed. note: we have one, too!] If you would like to do so too, you can still contact Richard Guy at Email: rguy@gps.caltech.edu
Some of Richard Guy’s main points for preparation:
More info on the Cal Tech Seismic Network and earthquake preparation can be found at http://shakeout.org;http://EarthquakeCountry.info; http://DaretoPrepare.org; http://CommunitySeismicNetwork.org
| |
|
by Timothy Rutt
According to letter to prospective sponsors, there will be a free community celebration for all residents at the Davies Building in Farnsworth Park, and feature "music, dancing, and good food."
But while LA County is contributing a lot of support, "we need sponsors to enhance the event and make it truly community-wide," according to a letter going out to prospective sponsors.
Sponsors are asked to take responsibility for one or more tasks, or make a cash donation. Sponsors will be included in a commemorative booklet.
Altadena Heritage, the Altadena Historical Society, the Altadena Women's Network, and Altadena Rotary have already promised to come through with tasks and entertainment, and they're looking for refreshments and food (preferably from local vendors), decorators, and people to staff booths.
The Altadena 125th Birthday Committee consists of Mark Goldschmidt and Michele Zack from Altadena Heritage; Jane Brackman of the Altadena Historical Society; Monica Hubbard of the Altadena Women's Network; Dolores Hickambottom, a 50-year resident and former Altadena Citizen of the Year; and Sussy Nemer, senior deputy for Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich.
To volunteer your time, treasure, or talent, contact altadenaheritage@earhlink.net or jlbrac@earthlink.net.
Letter to sponsors after the jump.
Continue reading "Altadena's 125th birthday bash on Nov. 3 is looking for some help" »
| |
|
by Timothy Rutt
Seniors: have you ever wondered how to navigate the brave new world of Facebook and Skype, or how to download a library book off the internet? How about how to handle an iPad? (It's so easy for the grandchildren!)
MonteCedro and Senior TechRally™, sponsored by AT&T, will help San Gabriel Valley area seniors learn how to be “tech savvy” during two educational, hands-on seminars on October 1 and 2, 2012.
Senior TechRALLY™ experts will educate attendees about smart phones and tablets, texting, apps, video calling, picture sharing, social networking, mobile gaming and much more. Additionally, attendees will be supplied with a Technology Guide to continue to use as a reference. Refresher courses will also be offered to answer questions after the event.
The event will be held at the University Club of Pasadena, 175 N. Oakland Ave., in Pasadena on Mon., Oct. 1, and Tues., Oct. 2, from 10 AM-4 PM.
Space is limited for this event. To register, please visit www.montecedro.org or call 877-282-1584.
| |
|
| |
|
Reader Sandy emails:
We found these two shepherd mix dogs running on Windsor next to the JPL gate. Both have collars but no tags. Very hot and exhausted from running the streets.
| |
|
by Timothy Rutt
Go Public, the documentary of a day in the life of the Pasadena Unified School District, will have a showing of some of its mini-docs for the next two Fridays, Sept. 21 and 28, at Projections on Lake, an outdoor projected art space across from the Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf at 415 South Lake Ave.
Go Public Project co-producer Dawn O'Keeffe tells us that they've also launched a Kickstarter funding campaign, hoping to raise $25,000 by Oct. 18 to complete the full two hour feature version. Minimum pledge is $1, and every little bit helps. An angel donor has agreed that every time someone donates to the Go Public Project thru Kickstarter, they will contribute an item to a local PUSD school. Less than $700 has been pledged as of this writing, so there's only a month to go.
| |
|
by Timothy Rutt
The Altadena Christian Children's Center, 791 E. Calavaras St., is kicking out the jams for its 30th Anniversary homecoming reunion Saturday, Oct. 6, from 9 AM -1 PM.
Alumni, students, community members, teachers, and friends of all kinds are invited to a fun day of food and activities. The Kiwanis Club will hold a pancake breakfast starting at 9 AM and a hot dog lunch at noon ($6 for adults, $3 for kids each meal). There will be a bounce house, alumni talent show and art show, face painting, games by Party Creations, and much more.
The Center will also have a "Tile Wall Project," to create your own tile for the memory wall (courtesy Color Me Mine). Tiles will be available for purchase for $30.
For more information, call the children's center office at 626-797-6142.
ACCC is a well-established early childhood education program that serves over 60 infants, toddlers and preschool age children who reflect the socioeconomic and ethnic diversity of the Altadena and Pasadena Communities.
| |
|
Bulgarini Gelato continues having Friday evening jazz and Saturday night "Italian dinner and a movie" this weekend.
This Friday, see the Brandon Baker Quintet in the courtyard from 7-10 PM.
Saturday, the movie is "Seraphine": - A French movie about the painter Séraphine de Senlis. Dinner will be served at 6:30pm (note new time)
Movies are always free. Dinner will be offered - by reservation only - for $13.50, which will include a homemade pasta dish, salad, and a drink. Reservations may be made by Friday (the day before the film) by email at catering@bulgarinigelato.com or by calling (626) 376-7662.
| |
|
from Episcopal Communities and Services
Financial planning, as defined by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, is the process of meeting your life goals through the proper management of one’s finances.
On September 26, MonteCedro, a new planned Episcopal Communities and Services Continuing Care Retirement Community in Altadena, is inviting surrounding San Gabriel Valley area residents to explore various estate planning and retirement options during its ‘Your Finances, Your Future’ event with Brad Breeding of LifeSite Logics and Jean Kim of Merrill Lynch.
During the two hour event, Kim will outline the basics of estate planning and educate attendees on various applicable tax codes. Additionally, Breeding will discuss the key differentiators in retirement living and the four deciding factors in selecting retirement housing: Lifestyle, Contract Details, Financial Stability and Healthcare.
Space is limited for this event. To register, please visit www.montecedro.org or call 877-282-1584.
WHEN: September 26, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. PST
WHERE: The Athenaeum at the California Institute of Technology, 551 South Hill Ave., Pasadena, CA 91103
| |
|
by Timothy Rutt
The Baldwin Park animal shelter, which services Altadena, will join with other county animal control facilities in a pet adoption event on Sat., Sept. 29.
Celebrating 75 years of Animal Care & Control, the event offers adoptions for $19.37 (to commemorate the year the department was founded)
The event runs from 10 AM-5 PM. The Baldwin Park animal shelter is at 4275 N. Elton St., Baldwin Park.
| |
|
by Timothy Rutt
A representative of Walmart is scheduled to attend the next meeting of the Altadena Coalition of Neighborhood Associations (ACONA) on Oct. 9 at the Altadena Senior Center, 560 E. Mariposa St., from 7-8:30 PM.
Walmart is planning to open a Walmart Neighborhood Market on Lincoln Avenue early next year, and has said it is looking at the possibility of opening a store at the Lake/Calavaras crater in east Altadena.
According to Elliot Gold of ACONA, "WalMart has agreed to answer all questions, but in order to prepare properly, would like to see many of them in advance of the meeting."
So here's your chance on an open thread: What do you want to ask Walmart? What issues do you want them to address? Comment away on the open thread.
| |
|
| |
|
by Timothy Rutt
Southern California Edison recently made a $5,000 grant to the Altadena Historical Society to help digitize its collection of Mt. Lowe documents.
AHS president Jane Brackman said that "The AHS Mount Lowe collection, documenting the early 20th century San Gabriel mountain railroad attraction, consists of more than 2500 documents including photos, post cards, artifacts, ephemera, letters, maps, slides, films and books. The SCE grant will enable AHS to digitize 500 documents and create a virtual exhibit of the early 19th century railroad phenomenon that students, researchers, and the public can access on-line. AHS expects to have the project completed at the end of 2013.
AHS will also have Mike Manning speak on the project in a program at the Altadena Community Center on Mon., Oct. 22, at 7:30 PM. The program is free and open to the public.
| |
|
By Tiffany Kelly, Pasadena Sun with Kate Mather, Los Angeles Times
Space shuttle Endeavour will take a scenic route through Los Angeles on Friday, passing over some of the region's most popular landmarks.
The shuttle is scheduled to arrive at Los Angeles International Airport around 11 a.m. Friday. But before it lands, it will fly over Disneyland, Griffith Observatory, the Getty and NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, according to a JPL spokesman.
JPL is not planning any special viewing event for the occasion, but employees are slated to watch the skies as it passes over the NASA center sometime between 10 and 11 AM
| |
|
Jeremiah Small took this video of the accident scene at Altadena Drive and Mendocino Lane Tuesday night.
by Timothy Rutt
A car crashed into a power pole at the corner of Altadena Drive and Mendocino Lane, knocking out power around the immediate neighborhood for several hours.
According to Lt. Angela Shepherd of the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department, a Dodge Magnum sedan ran into the power pole at approximately 10:10 PM Tuesday night, Sept. 18. According to the sheriff's report, the driver left the vehicle behind and fled the scene on foot. The California Highway Patrol is in charge of the investigation.
The impact left several nearby neighborhoods without power. Southern California Edison responded with a temporary fix, restoring power to most homes by evening. According to the Southern California Edison website, all power has been restored as of this morning.
| |
|
by Timothy Rutt
Robert Moon and Ed Meyers were named to fill two vacancies in the Altadena Town Council Tuesday.
Moon, in Census Tract 4611, and Meyers, in CT 4601, filled seats that were vacant because no candidates stepped forward to run for them in the June town council election.
Moon, a local filmmaker who served on the PUSD redistricting task force, said that he hesitated taking the seat without running for election, but determined that “an empty seat benefits no one.” He said that he had considered running for the June election but was fighting illness at the time.
Meyers was competing with Dwight Equitz, who also put in for the vacant seat in CT 4601. Equitz ran for town council in 2010, losing to Gino Sund, who opted not to run in 2012.
Meyers, who co-owns Steve’s Pets, is in his second year as vice-president of the Altadena Chamber of Commerce. His rationale for not running in June was that “at the time of the elections, frankly I just had too much on my plate.” He said that his goals included not wanting the Altadena community visioning process “to come to screeching halt,” and improve communications in his census tract.
Because the seat in CT4611 had two candidates, the council took a secret ballot vote, which council chair Bernardean Broadus said was seven for Meyers, two for Equitz, and one abstention.
| |
|
| |
|
By Kirk Silsbee
Pasadena Sun
Singer, multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, bandleader, music historian, author and broadcaster Ian Whitcomb is a true Renaissance man. A 1960s British Invasion rocker who settled in Pasadena, he’s studied, written about and performed nearly the whole of the pop music continuum — and on both sides of the pond. His new book, “Ukulele Heroes: The Golden Age” (Hal Leonard), lovingly chronicles some of the most celebrated practitioners of one of his enduring passions — the ukulele.
Those who catch his weekly “Ian Whitcomb Show” on Luxuria Radio know he’s a walking treasury of music history who’s as fun as he is informative. Whitcomb will sign copies of his book and perform at Vroman’s Books on Tuesday. Speaking recently at his comfortable home on a quiet Altadena street, he says of the appearance, “It’ll be like my stage show but without my band.”
| |
|
by Timothy Rutt
Los Angeles County has released a final draft of the Altadena Community Visioning Process document, the culmination of many interviews, three community meetings, and hundreds of comments gathered at the meetings and online in an attempt to create a direction for Altadena's future.
While it says that the document will serve as a touchpoint for the county, it mostly puts the burden of creating change in the hands of residents and community groups.
The final copy (7 MB PDF document download) is available at this link.
The report divides into six "characteristics" -- real and ideal -- that Altadenans wanted to see in their community:
Each characteristic is further broken down into guiding principles and key topics to address, along with issues identified by the commmunity and suggestions.
The report also has an extensive appendix of notes from the visioning process workshops.
The vision report includes a "Going Forward" section, which states that "this document will serve as a starting point for any future County planning efforts that may be undertaken when funding and resources become available," but recommends that local organizations take up the torch to follow through the suggestions from the visioning process.
| |
|
An uptick in vandalisms, and a dognapping this week, as well as some tips on disaster preparedness. Police blotter provided by Lt. Michael White of the Altadena Sheriff Station
Sunday, September 2
Between 6:00 PM and 2:15 PM (Monday) – A vehicle vandalism occurred in the 600 block of Figueroa Drive. ***Suspect possibly known***
Monday, September 3
10:41 AM – A commercial burglary occurred at AM-PM, 1880 N. Lake Ave. The suspect entered the location and stole several food items. Deputies responded to the location and the suspect was taken into custody.
Between 11:00 AM and 9:00 AM (Thursday) – A vehicle vandalism occurred in the 2700 block of Tola Av.
Wednesday, September 5
Between 1:00 AM and 7:00 AM – A vandalism occurred in the 3500 block of N. Glenrose Av. ***Suspect possibly known***
11:00 AM – A burglary from an unsecured garage occurred in the 1100 block of New York Dr. Deputies arrived at the location and apprehended two suspects in the area. Suspects were taken into custody. Loss (garden equipment) was recovered and returned to victim.
6:00 PM – A petty theft occurred in the 2400 block of El Molino Avenue. Loss: black PlayStation. ***Suspect known***
Thursday, September 6
10:40 AM – A vandalism occurred in the 100 block of W. Palm Street.
10:55 AM – A vandalism occurred at Focus Point Academy, 3126 Glenrose Av. ***Suspects identified***
Between 1:30 PM and 2:00 PM – A grand theft occurred in the 1200 block of Sagemont Place. Loss: (1) black/brown male Maltese, (1) brown female Maltese. ***Dogs were possibly taken from the rear yard by known suspect***
Friday, September 7
Between 4:30 AM and 6:30 PM – A vandalism occurred in the 300 block of E. Calaveras Street.
Between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM (Sunday) – A residential burglary occurred in the 3000 block of N. Glenrose Avenue. Suspect(s) entered the location via unknown means. Loss: white GE mini refrigerator, brown w/yellow-red Schwinn bicycle, misc. currency.
Saturday, September 8
12:30 AM – A vehicle vandalism occurred in the 1600 block of Sinaloa Street. ***Suspect(s) possibly known***
Between 1:45 PM and 7:30 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 3600 block of N. Fair Oaks Avenue. Suspect(s) entered the location via unknown means. Loss: black Toshiba 15” laptop, pearl earrings, diamond earrings, gold/silver Kobez men’s watch, blue soccer bag.
5:30 PM and 6:05 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 2500 block of Raymond Avenue. Suspect(s) entered the location via the rear door. Loss: black Phillips 42” TV, black Acer 19” laptop.
| |
|
Reader Jessica writes:
I found this dog running down Palm near the Altadena Community Gardens at 3 PM [Friday]. She jumped right in my car. No collar. I have enough animals on my hands and will be taking her to the Pasadena Humane Society. (Of course I have to tell them that I found the dog in Pasadena because Altadena dogs have to go to Baldwin Park.)
| |
|
by Carolyn Seitz
cmseitz@mindspring.com
Carolyn Seitz has been Altadena's premiere public safety volunteer, and was Citizen of the Year for 2010. She recently sent out this email to the newsgroups.
The Sheriff's Station, and the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department have been in the process of major change you see reflected in their growing use of social media. Both the Department and the Station now have new webpages, Facebook pages and they tweet. They also use Nixle as a way to push information out to the public.
I've been the facilitator of communication between the community and the Station for a few years, making sure the Captain and Lieutenants know what's on your mind and helping make sure that your issues are addressed. That is changing.
I've also monitored Altadenablog, AOL/Patch and the local listservs to make sure that some information being shared there was reviewed by the Sheriff's Station when you've been talking to each other about crime, suspicious activity, complaints about the Station or compliments about the Station. That now will also change.
I bought a home in New Mexico in 2004 with a plan to live there full-time by the Fall of 2009. Thankfully, that plan was written in pencil and has been updated many times. Even though I haven't yet moved to New Mexico, it's time for me to turn my attention to spending more time with my 89 year old father and other things I need to do to take care of myself.
I have resigned as a Volunteer for the Sheriff's Station, but will still be in Altadena for a while, and it's important to me that you know I'll still be here supporting the Sheriff's Station and community. Captain John Benedict, Lieutenant Duane Allen and Lieutenant Mike White are working hard to absorb the responsibilities I've been managing the last few years. This includes a resource and contact list that I hope - and the Sheriff's Station hopes -- will be useful to you.
Continue reading "Public Safety: Goodbye, thank you, carry on -- and stay safe!" »
| |
|
A note from SaveAltadena's Steve Lamb says:Poncitlan has been in this location since the early 1990's. In spite of the belief that Poncitaln had a strong ethnic following and most Altadenans believed its business would not be effected by the opening of a supermarket at Lincoln Crossing, the supermarket cut her sales 50%.Mrs. Vega, the owner, expanded her Burrito, Taco and Torta business. Today Poncitlan is a take out food diner and most of the business is derived from sales of to-go food.The beef burrito is excellent. It comes with either a mild or hot sauce, but the hot sauce can be handled by the most tender of tongues.Let's support this scrappy business owner who is constantly adapting to survive.
| |
|
by Timothy Rutt
What would they write about if it weren't for Altadena and Walmart? It's all over the place this week:
| |
|
| |
|
Bulgarini Gelato continues its summer series of Italian dinner and a movie with Franco Zeffirelli's "La Traviata," starring Placido Domingo and Teresa Stratas.
Movies are always free. Dinner will be offered - by reservation only - for $13.50, which will include a homemade pasta dish, salad, and a drink. Reservations may be made by Friday (that's today) by email at catering@bulgarinigelato.com or by calling (626) 376-7662. Dinner starts at 7:30, movie starts at sundown. Gelato is available throughout the evening.
| |
|
from the Pasadena Unified School District
Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) Board of Education President Renatta Cooper will deliver the annual PUSD State of the Schools Address Friday, September 28 at 8 a.m. at Blair Middle School. Board President Cooper will discuss the efforts of the district to provide an education focused on 21st century skills while continually threatened with drastic budget cuts hinging on the outcome of the November election. PUSD Superintendent Jon R. Gundry will also be delivering remarks at the event.
President Cooper’s remarks will be preceded by a breakfast prepared and served by the Blair High School Culinary Arts and Hospitality Academy and sponsored by the Pasadena Educational Foundation and California Credit Union. The address and breakfast are free and open to the public with an RSVP by September 25. Attendees can RSVP by email to communications@pusd.us or call 626-396-3606.
“The PUSD State of Schools address will provide the public with a taste of PUSD and a glimpse of some of the impressive work being done by our students on a daily basis,” said Board President Cooper. “I invite both the PUSD family as well as members of the community interested in learning more about PUSD to attend the event.”
Continue reading "PUSD's "State of the Schools" address Sept. 28 at Blair Middle School" »
| |
|
Danny's Farm is participating in "Duck the Flu," a free flu vaccination event from Pegasus Home Health Care.
The clinic will be at the parking lot in the rear of the Almansor Academy, 1955 Fremont Ave., South Pasadena, near the Danny's Farm rabbit hutches. The clinic will be held from 2:30-4:30 PM on Tue., Sept. 25, and cost is $30.
(Danny's Farm is featured in the latest issue of Panorama, the Cal Poly Pomona magazine).
| |
|
by Timothy Rutt
The Altadena Sheriff Station is looking for a suspect in the Aug. 30 robbery of the Tobacco House, at 1920 N. Lake Avenue.
According to a news release, the suspect demanded money at gunpoint, and fled in a green 1990's model two-door Toyota Celica.
If you have any information about the pictured suspect, contact the Altadena Sheriff Station at 626- 798-1131.
| |
|
| |
|
by Timothy Rutt
Tomorrow, Friday, Sept. 14, is shaping up to be a busy day in Altadena (and it's our birthday, too!) Here's what's in store:
UPDATE: Brenda Harlow at Harlow Technologies has even made a map for us! (Thank you, Brenda!)
| |
|
by Timothy Rutt
Some local anti-Walmart Neighborhood Market activists have posted a video on Youtube that brings back that old tradition, the protest song.
"Waltadena," written and performed by Alta-troubador and perennial Coffee Gallery host Duane Thorin, shows local familiar local scenes that frame Thorin's lament about the conflict between small businesses and the big corporations.
In the explanation of the video, it says, "Altadena just may fight back...this video has been created to both warn, and to inspire small town residents across America to assert their rights to protect their way of life. The Supreme court says that corporations are people, but Altadenans are people as well, and are petitioning as this film is made to ask that the law apply equally to all. "
The video was directed by Jules Dervaes and recording engineer was Altadenan Bo Astrup.
UPDATE: Duane tells us he hasn't hosted at the Coffee Gallery in about a year -- we need to get out more!
| |
|
by Timothy Rutt
A tough ex-Marine who doesn't like to quit isn't letting his disease keep him from the ranks of elite para-athletes -- and an Altadena bicycle maker is helping him realize his dream.
"I've lost 90% of my vision, and lost the use of my lower extremities," Brinenger said recently in a phone interview. "I'm having episodes recently where I actually lost the use of both arms, but I went through a pretty intense steroid treatment, and have gotten the use [of my arms] back."
Taking to the road
But MS hasn't stopped him: Brinenger, who lives in Gilbert, Arizona, is an adaptive cyclist with AZ Disabled Sports, competing in the Tour de Tucson, a 42 mile race. His adaptive bike is ridden in a reclining position, using hand cranks to move forward.
Brininger is a lifelong cyclist: "I always loved cycling, the freedom to go out on the open road, just running. To be able to have that freedom is just huge for me I'm self-contained, I can do anything, and I'm pushing myself. I love the overall feeling I get from it." Brininger said it wasn't unusual to when he was younger to ride 150 miles from his home to Tucson, crash overnight, and ride back.
But moving into a hand bike meant more than the obvious changes. Brininger said that most hand bikes aren't built by bicycle manufacturers -- they're built by wheelchair companies out of wheelchair parts, which aren't as durable and are more expensive than bicycle parts. In fact, his current bike is in the shop because of a busted frame.
Brininger said that he was wondering how to get a durable hand bike that was closer to a bicycle than a wheelchair when he and his daughter saw a television documentary that featured James Romero at BlackSwift Bicycles in Altadena. Brininger said that his daughter pushed him to contact Romero: "Why don't you just email him and see what he can do?" she asked.
Romero responded. "I was just overwhelmed when I got an email back," Brenninger said. "He said he would consider doing it."
Continue reading "Wheelchair cyclist turns to Altadena bicycle maker to keep competitive" »
| |
|
Dr. Michael Jason, executive director of special education for PUSD, will speak in Altadena on the state of special education in the district.
| |
|
| |
|
from Miller Hawkins Productions
The historical San Antonio Winery, Riboli Family Winery Estates and the merchants of Sierra Madre are once again joining forces to host the 7th annual Sierra Madre Wine & Jazz Walk. This fun and unique event, benefiting City of Hope Cancer Research and Treatment, will be held from 4 to 10 PM on Saturday, October 27, 2012 in downtown Sierra Madre.
While strolling through historic Sierra Madre Village, participants will visit local businesses to taste award-winning wines and sample delicious hors d'oeuvres. Live jazz groups will be< performing throughout the town to add to the ambiance. There will be a Silent Auction featuring an intriguing assortment of items ranging from gift baskets to Rose Parade and Game tickets.
Tickets for the event are available at participating businesses in Sierra Madre or online at www.SierraMadreWineandJazzWalk.com. Pre-sale tickets are $40 or $50 on day of the event. Ticket holders will receive a commemorative wine glass and a map of the city highlighting participating businesses other goodies.
To end the evening, this year’s event will once again feature The San Antonio Winery VIP Wine Garden, a private after-party, from 6 to 9pm. Our all-inclusive package, for pre-sale $85 or $100 at the door, per ticket, allows guests to experience both the Wine & Jazz Walk event and the private after party! VIP Wine Garden guests will have access to this exclusive area, featuring award-winning wines, delicious food, fun surprises, and even more live jazz and rock music!
Over 1,500 people attend this event annually. To date, it has raised over $300,000 for City of Hope Cancer Research. It is through your generosity that City of Hope is able to continue its special programs in biomedical research, patient care, and medical education. Such efforts have helped millions of people suffering from cancer and other life-threatening diseases worldwide. Presenting sponsor of the event, San Antonio Winery, Riboli Family Wine Estates will be donating the wine of the evening. Their wines have won more than 1,000 awards in national and international competitions, including several platinum and gold medals as well as best of class awards.
| |
|
by Timothy Rutt
Health Care for All - San Gabriel Valley Chapter is holding its annual fundraiser at the Pasadena Playhouse on Sun., Sept. 23 at 2 PM. It will be a matinee showing of a new comedy, "Under My Skin," which deals with "sex, love, and health care."
Tickets for the fundraiser are $45 (a savings of $8 over the box office price) and in the orchestra. Contact Susan Braig for tickets: ssbraig@earthlink.net
| |
|
Remembering what has been done, who we have lost, and where we are now. We ran this last year, on the 10th anniversary:
We were getting our daughter ready to deliver to first grade when Grandma called and told us to turn on the television. Some time later, our boss called -- we worked in a tall building in downtown LA, and he told us no one was going to work today, stay home. Just as well -- we spent the day glued to the television, and when we couldn't take it any more, played minor-key improvisations on the guitar until we could go back to the television again. We had two brothers who lived in Manhattan, and couldn't reach them -- they spent the afternoon on the roof of their apartment staring in horror, and listening to the military planes that took over the airspace after the collapse. Then they realized they should probably tell people they were OK.
What happened to you? What's changed? How will you remember? Comments are open.
| |
|
The Pasadena Unified School District is encouraging parents to attend Back to School Nights to "meet teachers, see classrooms and get a glimpse of their child’s daily routine," according to a press release from the district.
At Back to School Nights, parents also get to see the curriculum, goals for achievement and expectations for homework and behavior. There are also opportunities to join the PTA or school site council.
“Our schools offer wonderful opportunities for parents to volunteer and get involved,” said Supt. Jon Gundry. “Whether you can contribute knowledge and skills or leadership and advocacy, our schools welcome you as partners to support student achievement.”
To maximize their time during the event, parents are urged to arrive promptly and ask questions that are relevant to the entire class, such as how parents can support learning at home, projects and homework. Questions about an individual child’s progress or needs should be discussed privately with the teacher.
The schedule for 2012-2013 Back to School nights is after the jump.
Continue reading "PUSD announces back-to-school night schedule" »
| |
|
from Robert Staehle
ACTRWG
There will be an Altadena Crest Trail Restoration Working Group (ACTRWG) Meeting 7pm, Tuesday, 11 September 2012.
Location: Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Drive, just west of Lake Avenue, next to the Sheriff's Station and across the street from Rite Aid.
Please join us to welcome Lorrie Bradley, L. A. Dept. of Parks & Recreation's new Park Planner for Special Trails Projects to the ACTRWG. With the final resolution of the protracted La Vina litigation last week, we are hopeful that the County will resume promised work on restoration of the Altadena Crest Trail. Your participation and views on this project are important. All are welcome!
Bring trail conditions, concerns and photos to this meeting for discussion.
| |
|
Fancy Food Truck Friday returns to the Webster's complex parking lot this week, with the featured food truck Sweet Arleen's, champion of the Food Network's Cupcake Wars.
| |
|
Altadena artist Kathleen Ballard is the September artist at the Gallery at the Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake Ave. There will be a reception Sunday, Sept. 16, from 4:30 - 6:30 PM.
Ballard says:
Being a Southern California native, I have resided in this area all my life. I have been painting in watercolor since the mid-1980’s and attended many workshops with well known watercolorists whom I admired. In the summer of 2005, I left my position at Paramount Pictures to concentrate on painting full time after working in the motion picture studios for twenty years as a signwriter and previously as a partner with my husband in our own Pasadena-based sign company for twelve years. I am now able to paint nearly every day and pursue my career as an artist which is a wonderful dream come true.My paintings are done in a realist and traditional style of transparent watercolor leaving the paper for the whites. Painting in series is a great way for me to explore a subject in depth. In my still life paintings, “Wrapper Series” and the “Foil Series”, I find the reflective and transparent surfaces of the objects compelling as in my “Pond Reflection series. I also can’t resist floral subjects, especially cactus flowers in their contrast of beauty and severity.As an artist who loves the beauty of nature, I feel fortunate to have beautiful botanical gardens closeby in my area such as The Huntington Library, Descanso Gardens and The Los Angeles County Arboretum for inspiration and to use as wonderful subject matter for many of my paintings which depict nature.
| |
|
by Timothy Rutt
Altadena deputies arrested two men last week on charges related to stealing gardening equipment.
According to a press release from the Altadena Sheriff's Station, a resident heard noises in her backyard on the 1100 block of New York Drive at about 11 AM on Sept. 5. She saw two men removing gardening equipment from an unlocked garage and called the sheriff. A 1990's white Dodge Ram van was also involved in the incident.
Deputies arrived and two men were detained and identified by the witness.
According to Lt. Michael D. White of the Altadena Sheriff's Station, the two suspects are Rodolfo Guillen, 29, and Noe Ramirez, 26, both Pasadena residents.
| |
|
