altadenablog

"Evenings with the Boys in the Backroom" premieres as Library fundraiser Sunday

"Evenings with the Boys in the Backroom" is a world premiere staged reading Sunday, May 5, benefitting the Friends of the Altadena Library.

The Movable Theater Company presents the play by Peter Adum & Joyce Fante at 3 PM at the Altadena Main Library Community Room, 600 E. Mariposa Street. Tickets are $20, and available at the main library circulation desk.

Based on actual conversations that occurred between 1938 and 1940 in Stanley Rose’s Hollywood book shop, the play chronicles the friendships between Rose (J. Todd Howell) and some of his book store customers:  John Fante (Joe Estavez), William Saroyan (Shaun Duke Moosekian), Nathanael West (David Datz) and Carey McWilliams (Bruce Nehlsen).  In the back of the shop was a room where Rose and his friends drank, played cards, read the racing forms, argued, discussed ideas, gossiped and found the inspiration for many of their most famous works.  This was pure Hollywood during the “Golden Age” of studios, movies, glamour, big deals and even bigger dreams in the middle of the Depression. Also featuring Karen M. Louis and Evelyn Ortiz.

"Evenings with the Boys in the Backroom" deals with adult themes.

 

Found dog, Rubio Vista/Pleasantridge

Daniela writes:

This little guy showed up in our driveway on Rubio Vista and Pleasantridge last night (4/29) and - according to neighbors - had been wandering around the neighborhood earlier that afternoon.

We got his attention with treats, gave him food and water and took him to an emergency vet to see if he was microchipped. Unfortunately, he is not. Even though he is wearing a collar, there are no tags or any other information to identify him or his home.

Since we can't keep him, we will take him to the animal shelter in Baldwin Park later today if we can't find his owner by then.

He looks like a small, young Chihuahua Minipinscher mix with a mostly black coat with some beige and white on his face and chest. The tip of his tail is also white. He is very playful, still 'intact', and seems to be a very sweet boy. He is wearing a collar with blue, green, and white stripes.

Phone: (248) 494-3067 or email: danielalambert@me.com

Supervisors to consider transit, Woodbury improvements today

 By Timothy Rutt

  The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has two Altadena-related items on the agenda for today's meeting in Los Angeles.

The supervisors are expected to approve funding of $300,000 to the city of Pasadena to continue to provide paratransit services to Altadena and East San Gabriel.

The supervisors will also likely approve some changes increasing contract amounts involving the Woodbury Road Median Landscaping Project. On the agenda is $11,212 for equipment standby time, removal and replacement of pull boxes, and replacement of missing trees performed by Diversified Landscape Management, Inc. Also under consideration is $22,465 to West Coast Arborists for costs related to trimming and removal of parkway trees in both Altadena and Hacienda Heights.

Weather service puts fire watch in effect Tuesday-Thursday

National Weather Sevice says we'll be on fire watch from late Tuesday night through Thursday or possibly Friday.  

High temperatures (currently predicted at 92 degrees on Friday), low humidity, and winds mean increased risk of fire, especially in the mountain areas.

Full Weather Service outlook after the jump.

Power out, Lake Avenue commercial district

Southern California Edison is reporting (as of 1:15 PM) that 636 customers are currently without power (we're getting reports of outages from businesses along Lake Avenue, just to let you know the area).  Outage was first spotted at 11:30 AM this morning. Edison's outage web page says they're aware of the problem, blame it on equipment failure, but offer no joy in when it will be restored.

UPDATE: Power was restored about 2 PM.

 

Community Garden completes first outreach project

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by Patrick Gothard
Community correspondent 

Altadena Community Garden’s newly formed Outreach Committee partnered with Girl Scout Troop 921 to complete the first outreach project. A raised-bed vegetable garden was installed in the yard of Adrian Griffin and her son Miles Johnston.

Special thanks go to garden members Jim and Chris Baughman for the donation of the wonderful raised box. This box had all the bells and whistles and was superbly constructed. The gopher guard and bird-netting frame were all included.

Special thanks also go to Altadenan David Apodaca of The Succulent Gardener. Thank you David for preparing the space, installing the box and supplying a healthy dose of happy red worms. The success of this project is a community working together!

Pictured are: Altadena Community Garden President, Silvera Grant, Altadena Community Garden Outreach Committee members, Mary Gothard Audra Grubbs and Michael Grady. Contributing Garden Members Jim and Chris Baughman, Girl Scout Troop 921 and recipient Adrian Griffin. Also pictured are David Apodaca and Patrick Gothard, working hard to make this project sustainable.

Missing cat: Miscuit, at Lake/Concha

Miscuit (rhymes with "biscuit") was let out of her house near Concha and Lake Avenue at 4:30 AM Friday (she loves the outdoors), and hasn't been seen since:

Miscuit is medium-sized (18 lbs.) bicolor cat with a white chin, neck and underbelly, and cream with an orangey-brown-tinted head and back. She has a white lightening-bolt-type marking on her back. Her tail has slightly lighter rings. Lovely amber eyes. Might be an American short-hair cat (she was abandoned so I don't know that much about her). Approximately 9 years old. Sweet but skittish around strangers.

No color or tags. 

Contact Cathy at 626-390-1677 or email: info@depree.org.

Morning Jolt

• Poetry Month: Sid Galley in PSN looks at some local female poets for Poetry Month, including Altadena's Jean Burden.  
• Some days the bear bites you: Some of the neighbors on Chaney Trail are reporting that a bear has gotten into some bad habits and is rooting through the trash cans, so head's up!
• Eliot end of year meeting: Over at Eliot Middle School, there will be an important end-of-year parent meeting on Wed, May 15, at 6 PM: In addition to electing PTA officers, you will hear about important changes taking place at Eliot for the coming school year - and what you can do NOW to help your student succeed.  Including: new master schedule and elective options, summer reading, math readiness, school uniform policy, family/school compact, and involvement opportunities for parents/guardians. 

League of Women Voters hosts air quality forum May 11 at All Saints

from the League of Women Voters

One of California’s greatest policy challenges – air quality – will be the topic of a free public forum Saturday, May 11, 2013, from 8:30-11 a.m. The Sierra Club, Sustainable World of All Saints Pasadena and the League of Women Voters Pasadena Area are joining hands to sponsor the forum at All Saints’ Sweetland Hall, 132 N. Euclid Ave., Pasadena.

While California is leading the way in air-quality policy, 95 percent of Californians still live in areas that fail the national and state standards for clean air.

Representatives from the port of Los Angeles, Pasadena Water and Power and California Air Resources Board will discuss the critical role and economic cost to transportation and energy industries in meeting those standards.  

They also will address how air-quality policies affect business, the economy and consumers. Specifically:   

● What policies govern the electric sector and what effect do they have on electric bills.

●How air-quality policies affect the movement of goods and in turn the economy.

LaRonda Bowen, ombudsman for the California Air Resources Board (CARB), will describe the state’s air quality policies, the data that support the policies and ways to measure improvement. Shari Thomas, assistant general manager of Pasadena Water and Power, will discuss policies governing electricity, how the local utility is complying and what it means to rate payers. Teresa Pisano, environmental mitigation coordinator for the Port of Los Angeles, will talk about the port’s specific policies and effects on the movement and pricing of goods.   Felicia Williams, former chair of the Environmental Advisory Commission for the city of Pasadena, will moderate.

A continental breakfast will be served. Free parking is available in the church lot at the corner of Euclid Avenue and Walnut Street. Further information is available by calling. 626-798-0965.

May 1 deadline for Adelante Mujer Latina Conference at PCC

The Pasadena Youth Center presents the 19th annual Adelante Mujer Latina (AML) Conference on Saturday May 11, 2013, hosted by Pasadena City College.

The focus of the AML Conference is to provide young girls with tools for personal and professional growth; challenge them to raise their expectations; promote leadership and encourage them to pursue a post high school education, so that they may achieve their goals and have a positive impact on their lives and on the lives of others.

Hundreds of middle and high school girls, their mothers, dedicated teachers and professional women will come together for a daylong college and career focused conference. The AML Conference is a mentoring opportunity for young girls to be inspired by positive and successful Latina role models. Professional women share their expertise in workshops that aim to guide young girls in preparing for college, and a multitude of career options.

The AML Conference includes exhibitors representing universities, colleges, businesses and community agencies who will provide resources and information about financial aid, internships, health and community services.  

Pre-­registration by May 1 is required.  Registration fee is $20 per person. To register online, go to www.adelantemujerlatina.org or www.pasadenayouthcenter.org 

For more information about Adelante Mujer Latina Conference 2013, please call the Pasadena Youth Center at (626) 798-­‐1538.

Mt. Wilson Pancake Breakfast coasts to success

 

Over 400 mountain bikers and fans attended the Mt. Wilson Bicycling Assn.'s annual pancake breakfast April 28, 2013 at Henninger Flats. Photos: Tim Murphy

The Mt. Wilson Bicycling Association held its annual pancake breakfast at Henninger Flats on Sunday morning, April 29. Tim Murphy, founding member  and spokes-man of MWBA,  writes us:

The MWBA pancake breakfast at Henninger Flats was a huge success! In attendance were various dignitaries from LA County Fire, Altadena Mountain Rescue, the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame and the Angeles National Forest.

Also, Smokey Bear made a surprise appearance. Smokey said "Henninger Flats is so beautiful. I'd like to retire here someday."

There was also a special $1,000 donation made by the Pasadena Athletic Association in the form of a giant check.

We owe the Altadena Rotary a big-thanks for lending us their four stoves and griddles. Our guess is we had 400+ people attend and raised much needed funds to continue our efforts rebuilding trails damaged by the Station Fire. This was truly a community effort.

P.S. Now I have to get everything back down the mountain.....whew!

More photos after the jump. 

 

Morning Jolt

• Altadena spring: Local photog Heather Bullard went to a workshop at the Institute for Domestic Technology, and got some good shots of the Zane Grey Estate in the spring. 
• Awards: Our content partners at the Pasadena Sun and other Times Community Newspapers cleaned up pretty good at the California Newspaper Publisher Association contest.  Nicole Charky has the scoop.
• Doo-dah:  The Sun also has a collection of photos of yesterday's Doo-Dah parade (but alas, none of Altadena's Grand Marshall Alan Zorthian or Queen Suzann Edmonds).

East Altadena Little League movie night shows "Wreck-It-Ralph" May 4

The East Altadena Little League will have an outdoor movie night with a big screen underneath the stars on Saturday, May 4.

"Wreck-It-Ralph," starring John C. Reilly, will be showing at Donley Field at Longfellow School, 1165 E Washington Boulevard in Pasadena.  Free admission and surprises in store, including a special raffle.

There will be taco plates for sale for dinner along with candy, popcorn, and drinks at the snack shack. 

The festivities start at 7 PM, with the movie starting at 7:45.

MoonHill Productions' "Salvage" trailer online

by Timothy Rutt

"Salvage,' the latest film from Altadena's MoonHill Productions, now has its trailer online.

Richard Moon (who with his wife Isabel J. Hildebrandt and their partner Colleen Kelly comprise MoonHill)  writes us:

"Salvage" is a documentary about the women of Skid Row and the people helping them out. We spent the last year making it, and we'd love to let Altadena know it's out there. 

 

 

Are you ready for extreme weather? Library program takes a look

from Friends of the Altadena Library

Friends of the Altadena Library present: “Extreme Weather: Are You Ready for More?”  presented by JPL Engineer, Robert Haw.

Find out about the strange weather events in the U.S. and throughout the world. Why do we have it? What can we do?

Robert Haw is the founder of the Climate Change Symposium, an annual event that brings together JPL scientists and policy experts

When:  Monday, May 13, 7:00 pm

Where: Altadena Library Community Room

             600 East Mariposa Street

             Altadena, CA 91001

Information:  (626) 798-0833; www.altadenalibrary.org

 

Pet of the Week: "Diesel"

At the Board of Supervisors meeting, Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich presents “Diesel,” a 3-month old “Flat Coat Retriever” mix – one of many pets available for adoption now.  For more information about adopting a pet, please call the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control at562-728-4610.

Warm weather means mosquitos; mosquitos mean take precautions

The tiger mosquito is an invasive species from Asia who is now making its home in the San Gabriel Valley. It is a vector for several serious diseases. Image courtesy UC-Riverside Center for Invasive Species Research.

Mosquitoes and warm weather go hand in hand. Coinciding with the arrival of mosquito season, the California State Legislature declared the week of April 21-27, 2013 as West Nile Virus and Mosquito & Vector Control Awareness Week in California. West Nile virus is a disease transmitted by mosquitoes that can result in debilitating cases of meningitis and encephalitis, and lead to death in humans, horses, some bird species and other wildlife.

 

"West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne illnesses continue to threaten public health in California," said Andrew Cox, president of the Mosquito and Vector Control Association of California (MVCAC). "Since these diseases are transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, it is important that residents take extra precautions to protect themselves and their families from mosquito bites and prevent mosquito breeding in their neighborhoods."

 

The following safety precautions are recommended by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH):

• Eliminate or manage all sources of standing water to discourage mosquito breeding.
• Avoid spending time outside when mosquitoes are most active, especially at dawn and the first two hours after sunset.
• If you are outdoors when mosquitoes are biting, wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts.
• Apply insect repellent containing EPA-registered active ingredients such as DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, and Oil of lemon eucalyptus (PMD). Always apply according to label instructions.
• Make sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes.
• Contact your local mosquito and vector control agency if there is a significant mosquito problem or potential mosquito breeding source where you live or work.

According to the CDPH, 479 human cases of West Nile virus were reported in 2012. Of the reported cases, there were 19 fatalities. CDPH and the Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention predict West Nile virus will again pose a public health threat in California in 2013. Adequately funded mosquito and vector control, disease surveillance and public awareness programs are the best way to prevent outbreaks of West Nile virus and other diseases borne by mosquitoes and other vectors.

 

For more information regarding local mosquito control, disease surveillance, and public education efforts, please contact the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District at (562) 944-9656 or visit www.glacvcd.org. 

http://sgvmosquito.org/

http://www.youtube.com/user/sgvmvcd

http://glacvcd.org/Contents/Vector-Services-Info/Asian-Tiger-Mosquitoes.aspx

Altadena Sheriff car show today

 

by Timothy Rutt

Too-much-to-do Altadena Saturday kicked off this morning with the first Altadena Sheriff's Station Car Show and Art Walk.  Forty-four classic vehicles entered to be part of the contest, which is free and open to the public on Mt. Curve Avenue at Farnsworth Park.  There are also craft vendors, children's activities, and food available at the famiy-friendly event.  The car show runs through 5 PM today.

 

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1.  Fred Borquez of Altadena shows off his classic and lovingly-restored 1955 Chevy truck.

2. This 1947 Triumph 1800 roadster, owned by Tom & Marie Leonard of Pasadena, is made in part from repurposed airplane parts because Triumph wanted to get back into production quickly after WWII.

3. Old school Pasadena police car.

4. It's just yellow.

5.  The classic rockers The Answer will be playing all day.

 

Rescuers practice for next life-saving mission in Angeles National Forest

 

Altadena Mountain Rescue Team member Alexia Joens directs the rope handlers as they bring up a "victim" during multi-agency "over-the-side" high angle, technical rescue exercise on Angeles Crest Highway on Friday, April 26, 2013. About 100 personnel from different local agencies participated, including the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Montrose Search & Rescue Team, Altadena SAR, L.A. County firefighters from La Canada Flintridge and Pico Rivera along with Air Rescue 5, and the U.S. Forest Service. (Photo: Raul Roa, Pasadena Sun / April 26, 2013)

 

 

By Tiffany Kelly
Pasadena Sun

Firefighters and rescuers who patrol the Angeles National Forest respond to hundreds of incidents every year, ranging from cars that fall off the highway to hikers who become lost or injured.

On Friday morning, they practiced hoisting victims from a helicopter and up the side of the cliff, techniques that could one day be used to save a life. It was the first day of an annual Los Angeles County training exercise. Montrose Search and Rescue, Altadena Search and Rescue, Urban Search and Rescue, Los Angeles County Air Operations and the U.S. Forest Service all participated.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

Altadena Stables looking for volunteer counselors for summer

 

Photo courtesy Altadena Stables.

Altadena Stables is looking for high school students and young adults to assist as volunteer counselors for its Summer Horse Camp.

 

Having an experience with handling horses is preferred, but is not required as long as an individual has the desire and willingness to learn.  Training sessions will be offered and will focus on safety, handling of horses, horse behavior, and grooming.

All participants for the training session must register in advance.  For more information and to register, call the stables at 626 797-2012. Altadena Stables is located at 3064 Ridgeview Drive, Altadena, 91001. altadenastables.com

 

National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day today

  The Drug Enforcement Agency has announced a National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day today, to provide safe disposal for unwanted and unused prescription drugs.  The aim is to safely dispose of unwanted drugs to keep them from the environment and from potential misuse.  

The Pasadena Police Department will be taking drugs back today at their headquarters, 207 Garfield Avenue in Pasadena.  The Altadena Sheriff's Station has disposal bins for both legal and illegal drugs and sharps on the Altadena Drive side of the sheriff's station, available 24/7, 780 E. Altadena Drive.

 

 

Aveson offers parent workshop Monday on energy field balance

from Aveson Charter School

Aveson Charter Schools is sponsoring a free, open-to-the-public parent education event Monday, April 29, 6:30 -8:30 PM. at Aveson School of Leaders, 1919 E. Pinecrest Drive in Altadena.  Guest speaker, Dr. Niki Elliot, will present “Healing the Child From Within,” and explore how a child’s behavior can improve through balancing his/her energy field.  Parents will gain an understanding of how colors, sounds and dietary resources can help a child focus and learn and how learning style analysis can support parents in making informed choices about their child’s education. 

Dr. Elliott is an author and educator with more than 20 years of hands-on experience in supporting intuitive children and helping adults bring their children’s gifts into balance.  She has helped children with various sensitivities live full and balanced lives by recognizing their intuitive gifts.  Dr Elliott earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of California, Berkley, her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Columbia University Teachers College and her doctorate in education from the University of California Los Angeles.  She holds elementary teaching credentials in California and New Jersey and has trained for more than ten years in various energy healing modalities. 

Dr. Niki Elliott is a powerful energy therapist, speaker, educator, mother and founder of Innerlight Sanctuary, a holistic healing center located in Altadena. 

Too-much-to-do Altadena weekend!

by Timothy Rutt

It's the Sheriff's first car show and art walk, Poetry & Cookies, Doo-Dah Parade, St. Elizabeth Parish Fiesta .. it's just not going to end this weekend!

We are in a particular circle of hell this morning called the Trienniel IEP for one of our children.  We've got a checklist of activities below, and before the day is done we want to put in the proper links -- but a ittle searching on the website should give you everything you need to know about a jam-packed weekend of activities.

Friday, April 26

• Fun Fliick Friday at the Altadena LIbrary: The Hobbit, 3:30 PM
• St. Elizabeth Parish Fiesta runs thru the weekend: Friday, 6-10 PM.

Saturday, April 27

• Sheriff's Car Show and Art Walk, Farnsworth Park, 9 AM-5 PM, something for the whole family.
• Eliot Middle School E-waste Roundup, 9AM-3 PM.
• Doo-Dah Parade, featuring Altadena's Queen, Suzanne Edmonds, and Grand Marshal Alan Zorthian, 11-3 PM on Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena between Altadena Drive and San Gabriel Boulevard.
• Lego Club at the Altadena Library, 11 AM-12:30 PM
• St. Elizabeth Parish Fiesta, 12-10 PM today
• Grand opening of the First Presbyterian Church neighborhood basketball court.
• Altadena jazzman Bobby Bradford at the Allendale Library in Pasadena, 2 PM.
• Knitter and crocheter hangout for teens and tweens, Altadena Main Library
• Poetry and Cookies Festival, Altadena Senior Center, 2-4 PM
• Altadena Christian Children's Center fundraiser at Mijares, 6 PM.

Sunday, April 28

• Mt. Wilson Bicycle Association Pancake Breakfast at Heninger Flats, 8-11 AM
• St. Elizabeth FIesta continues, 11 AM-8 PM.
• Altadena Town & Country Club open house, 11 AM-4 PM.

 

Meet the beetles: Altadena Heritage shares grim news about tree-killing bugs

Windstorm of 2011 aided the spread of pests

A shot hole borer entry point, indicated by sawdust and ooze.  All pictures were taken at the Altadena Heritage presentation April 24, 2013.

 

by Laura Monteros

The shot hole borer is a helpful little creature, in its proper place.  But in Southern California, it’s an insidious, uncontrollable tree-killing pest.

Shot hole borer beetle.

“It’s good, but not for us,” Frank McDonough, botanical information consultant at the Los Angeles County Arboretum, said Wednesday night, April 24, at the Altadena Community Center.  McDonough was the guest speaker as part of Altadena Heritage's “Heritage of Abundance” series, which looked at the shot hold borer and its kin, who are becoming an increasing danger to local trees.

 

So what’s good about it?  It seems the critter clears out dying flora during periods of global warming to prepare the land so the next biome can come in more quickly.  “It makes a nice, smooth, easy transition,” McDonough said.

But in Southern California, where it's virulent,  there is currently no way to control or prevent it.  It’s such a dangerous dude that even the research center, Eskalen Lab at UC Riverside, won’t keep it on hand and has moved its research to the Arboretum.  The bug bores deeper into the tree than most beetles —1 ½ to 2 inches— which protects it from birds.  It does not have to emerge from the tunnels to mate.  No biological parasite or insecticide has been discovered that can kill it and sonic waves are ineffective.  

Borers pick on a variety of popular trees

by Laura Monteros

 

Wistaria are vulnerable to the shot hole borer.

Some trees, such as citrus, are unsuccessfully attacked by the shot hole borer and some are successful in fighting the pest; others are reproductive hosts that can die from infestations.  The beetles don’t seem to like the cold, so trees in areas where it regularly gets to 22 degrees are protected.

 

“I have yet to see a willow that has escaped this pest,” McDonough said, and Berry added that Wistaria is especially susceptible.  Here’s a list of the most commonly infested reproductive hosts:

• Box elder
• Castor bean
• Avocado
• English oak
• Coast live oak
• Sycamore
• Persimmon
• California bay laurel
• Mimosa
• Goldenrain
• White alder
• Big leaf maple
• Olive
• Wistaria
• Liquid amber

Crown City Symphony free concert at Altadena Community Church May 11

Crown City Symphony will present two free concerts:, May 11, 2 PM at the Altadena Community Church, 943 E. Altadena Drive, Altadena, and May 12, 2 PM, at the First Baptist Church of Pasadena, 75 N. Marengo, Pasadena. (Validated parking in the stacked parking on Holly)

Marvin Neumann, conductor, will conduct "Morning, Noon and Night in Vienna" by Suppe, and soloists Andrew Sords, violin, and Charles Hummel, violist, will perform "Symphonie Concertante: by Mozart. The program will close with "Masquerade Suite" by Khatchaturian.

 

Altadena Ale & Wine House celebrates three years May 1

The Altadena Ale & Wine House, 2329 N. Fair Oaks Ave., is celebrating its third birthday on Wednesday, May 1, with an anniversary party starting at 5 PM.  Bring some potluck to celebrate -- there will also be barbecue, drink specials, wine raffles, and giveaways, and highlighted by jazz music.   Enjoy!

(Don't forget that Doo-Dah Queen Suzanne Edmonds will have her post-parade party on Saturday, April 27, starting at 3 PM).

Soroptimists honorees inspire women to ‘Live Your Dream’

 

Jackie Knowles, Elizabeth Claire Lambert, and Philandria Brown show off the purses they received at the Soroptimist Club's annual "Live Your Dream" luncheon.

from the Soroptimist Club

The Women’s City Club in Pasadena provided a very elegant setting for Soroptimist International of Altadena-Pasadena’s fourth annual “Live Your Dream” luncheon. This event – the organization’s signature project -- honored three local women, and was held on April 24.

The first honoree was Jackie Knowles, the recipient of the Ruby Award for Women Helping Women. This award honors women who have worked to improve the lives of women and girls through their professional or volunteer efforts. Jackie provided the necessary leadership and perseverance to open The Women’s Room, a safe place for homeless and at-risk women to rest, have a meal, and access services and support. Jackie currently serves as facilitator and manager of The Women’s Room.

When accepting the award, Jackie stated that what started out to be a daytime refuge for just a few women has now grown to 20 – 30 homeless attendees a day. “It could happen to you or I,” she acknowledged.

 

Arts Center opens spring class registration Monday

Children, youth (6 years – 18 years) and adults can explore the arts and their creativity at the Altadena Community Arts Center. The Center is accepting registrations for its Spring 2013 classes and workshops, beginning Monday, April 29.

Students will have an opportunity to create art under the guidance of professional artists and art educators, while discovering the artist in themselves! The Center is offering a wide variety of classes/workshops, including Painting, Clay Sculpture, Introduction to Design, Drawing Creative Writing and Performance, Introduction to Air Brush and Aerosol Art Techniques, Clay Masks and Design, Linoleum Block Printing, Cartoon Art and Comic Book Art. Enrollment is limited and registration fees vary. A limited number of scholarships are available.

Class schedules, registration forms and payment information are available online( www.altadenacommunityartscenter.org) and by calling (626-797-5798 ), or visiting the Altadena Community Arts Center at (2460 North Lake Avenue at Mariposa). The Center is operated by The Altadena Arts Council (TAAC).

Sheriff looking for man with gun, came up with nothing Thursday

by Timothy Rutt

Westside Altadena residents were alerted to sheriff and helicopter activity Thursday night as deputies tried to pin down a reported man with a gun in the area.

According to the watch commander, a deputy spotted what he thought was a man with a gun in the neighborhood of El Nido and Ventura at approximately 9:30 PM.  A search of the neighborhood, including by helicopter, came up with nothing.

Curiosity team receives high honors from National Air & Space Museum

The entry, descent and landing team of NASA's Mars Science Laboratory project received the 2013 Trophy for Current Achievement from the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum on April 24, 2013. Pictured here in the back row are the following members of the team (from left to right): Tom Rivellini, Gavin Mendeck, Steve Lee, Miguel San Martin, Tomas Martin-Mur, Adam Steltzner, Ben Thoma, Howard Eisen and Ravi Prakash. In the front row (from left to right) are: Carl Guernsey, Keith Comeaux, Jody Davis, Ann Devereaux, Allen Chen and Fuk Li. Image credit: Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

 

The team in charge of successfully landing NASA's Mars rover Curiosity, managed by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif., received the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum's highest group honor at a dinner in Washington on Wednesday night, April 24. The 2013 Trophy for Current Achievement honors outstanding achievements in the fields of aerospace science and technology. 

The Mars Science Laboratory Project built and operates the rover Curiosity, which has been investigating past and current environments in Gale Crater on the Red Planet since its dramatic sky-crane landing in August 2012. The rover has 10 science instruments to investigate whether an area within Gale Crater ever has offered an environment favorable for microbial life. 

JPL, a division of the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, manages the project for NASA's Science Mission Directorate in Washington. 

More information about the award and images of the team receiving the award are available at:http://airandspace.si.edu/events/pressroom/releaseDetail.cfm?releaseID=312 . 

And let's all review what they received the award for, after the jump.

Saturday, where can you go? Doo-Dah! Doo-Dah!

 

Doo-Dah denizens light up last year's parade. Photo: Lightbringer Project

 

The 36th not-exactly-annual Pasadena Doo-Dah Parade steps off on Colorado Boulevard between Altadena Drive and San Gabriel Boulevard in East Pasadena starting at 11 AM.

It's an Altadena-heavy parade this year, presided over by Doo-Dah Queen Suzanne Edmonds and Grand Marshal Alan Zorthian.

According to their release:

 spectators will be startled and amused by Flying Baby Hammer, A Moveable Feast (based on a Hemingway novel), Ace Ketchum-Professional Vampire Fisherman, The Great Firewall of China, The LOH Down on Science (featuring NPR personality Sandra Tsing Loh), Camp Bimbo, Worlds Tallest Girl Scout, Jiffy Pop! Happy Howard's Harlequin, The Bearded Ladies, Johnny Skunkmobile, Fashion on the Fly, Drunk in the Garage Band, Zombie Training Camp, Aaroe Sign Spinners, and Dr. Steele and His Army of Toy Soldiers.

Known as the twisted sister of the conventional Rose Parade, the Occasional Pasadena Doo Dah Parade began as a grassroots event in 1978 to gain national attention for its eccentric and, often, irreverent satire. The parade which has spawned numerous off-beat replicants across the country was named by Readers Digest as "America's Best Parade," and was recently featured in the book 50 Places You Must Visit Before You Die!

This year's spectacle will see the return of such wildly diverse entries as a fleet of motorized Kinetic Pastry Science Mobile Muffins, Captain MacHogwash's Amazing Chundra, Senior Graucho, Mile High Bed, Yippie Hippie Sixties, Million Marijuana March, The Billionaires, Sloppy Swishers, Whistling Diva Champion, Amnesty International, Blues Brothers Tribute, L.A. Derby Dolls, Pizza Oven Art Car, Vegetables, classic, scary clowns, BBQ & Hibachi Marching Grill Team, Bus Target, Howdy Krishna, Horses on Astroturf, and the immortal Doo Dah house band Snotty Scotty & the Hankies, and much more!

Plenty of street parking is available ~ Parade route is also just west of the Sierra Madre Villa Gold Line Station (at Colorado Blvd. and Sierra Madre Villa). City buses go directly to the area.

Come early! Bring a camera and a lawn chair! Visit Robin's wood fire BBQ booth along the parade route for some all-American street food, buy a commemorative 2013 Doo Dah t-shirt and attend the after parties all within walking distance.

Official Doo Dah After-Party: American Legion, 179 N. Vinedo Ave. (2 blocks from Parade at Vinedo & Walnut), immediately following the event. Bands...cheap food and cheaper drinks!! $3.00 cover. Pizza slices all day for just $2.00! 

UPDATE: Dunno about the OFFICIAL party, but Doo-Dah Queen Suzanne is having her own post-parade party at the Altadena Ale & Wine House, 2329 N. Fair Oaks Ave., starting at 3 PM (thx to Gail at the Ale House).

 

Webster's Community Pharmacy invites Mom to "Spa-Tique" May 3

Altadenablog sponsor Webster’s Community Pharmacy is inviting mothers (and others) to sample the latest bath and body treatments at their "Spa-Tique" on Friday, May 3.

Mothers, sisters and other loved ones can enjoy a relaxing time at Webster’s Community Pharmacy’s “Spa-Tique & Tea Retreat”.  Crabtree & Evelyn will be on ‘hand” with the latest in Hand Therapy, including the luscious new scent, Tarocco Orange.  For fans of Naked Bee Natural Body Collection, we’ll be “buzzing” with Lavender, Pomegranate and the popular Orange Honey lotions.  Moms will have an opportunity to take home samples of their favorite products and enjoy other surprises during the event.  

During the Spa-Tique, Gift Department purchases of $25 or more will receive a 20% discount. Additionally, the ever-popular Webster’s RX refreshment table will revitalize and renew with iced and hot herbal tea.  Munch on tea cakes and fresh fruit while our staff indulges you.

 

Fast Facts:

Mother’s Day Spa-Tique & Tea Retreat is on Friday, May 3, from. 3-7PM at Webster’s Community Pharmacy, 2450 N. Lake Avenue.

For More Information:  Call 626-797-1163 or visit: www.facebook.com/websterscommunitypharmacy

It's good to be the (Doo-Dah) Queen

Former Doo-Dah Queen Mickie Mills interviews current queen Suzanne Edmonds, who will be presiding over this weekend's Altadena-centric parade -- with a llama.

 

County responders to hold "over-the-side" rescue practice Friday

by Timothy Rutt

The Los Angeles County Fire Department will leada mult-agency exercise on Friday morning at Angeles Crest Highway, practicing "over-the-cliff" rescue techniques.

The technical rescue exercise will be held off the Angeles Crest Highway in the Angeles National Forest. According to a press release from County firefighters, "the forest's extremely steep terrain has been the location of a large number of technical rescue operations throughout the history of the Los Angeles County Fire Department." The exercise will be a "over the side" high angle technical rescue. Last year, the county sheriff search and rescue teams and County firefighters were involved in several such rescue operations on the Angeles Crest Highway.

Among the agencies involved in the exercise will be the Altadena and Montrose search and rescue teams, Forest Service firefighters, and air operations, including the fire department's FIrehawk and LA County Sheriff's Air 5 Super Puma helicopters.

The exercise will take place at Angeles Crest Highway mile marker 30.16, from 9 AM-1 PM.

 

 

 

Hahamongna planners looking for public input at April 29 meeting

by Timothy Rutt

The Arroyo Seco Foundation and Pasadena Water & Power Department are asking for public input at a meeting on April 29, looking at improvements to the Arroy Seco.

The Arroyo Seco Canyon Project is a $3.3 million project for habitat restoration, water resources enhancement, water quality improvement, and recreation. Now in the final design phase, they are looking for public input on such key features as parking lot layout and design, habitat improvements, and recreational amenities.

The meeting will be at 6:30 PM, April 9, at Fire Camp #2, Hahamongna Park.

 

Mt. Wilson Pancake Breakfast at Henninger Flats Sunday

by Timothy Rutt

The Mount Wilson Bicycling Association is holding its annual pancake breakfast at Henninger Flats this Sunday, April 28, from 8 -11 AM, rain or shine.

Special guests are cycling legend Keith Bontrager with musical guests Wreck N Sow.

Breakfast and one raffle ticket is $6, additional raffle tickets are one dollar. Buy an MWBA membership for $30 and get 40 tickets for the raffle.

Enter at 2260 Pinecrest Dr., Altadena, and bicycle 3 miles up the Mt. Wilson Toll Road to Henninger Flats.

UPDATE: Tim Murphy of MWBA wrote in to give us more details: 

 

The band "Wreck 'N Sow" (of Sheriff's concert series fame) will be performing and the Altadena Mountain Rescue Team will be on hand with a display booth. Henninger Flats is under the jurisdiction of LA County Fire (Forestry Division) so there will be numerous Rangers, Deputies and Chiefs on hand to help with the event. There's even a rumor that the Sheriff's new Air Five "Europter Super Puma" helicopter will do a low flyover!

  The Mount Wilson Bicycling Association was founded by handful of devoted cyclists in 1985 for the sole purpose of maintaining the trails in the Arroyo Seco District of the Angeles National Forest

 

New benches honor Altadena preservationist Astrid Ellersiek

 

Heinz Ellersieck on the benches installed in honor of his wife Astrid at the Altadena Community Center. Photo courtesy Altadena Historical Society.

 

by Timothy Rutt

After several years of waiting, the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Dr., has finally installed courtyard benches in honor of Altadena Realtor and preservationist Astrid Ellersiek.

According to Jane Brackman, president of the Altadena Historical Society, the benches were purchased with a gift from Heinz Ellersiek, to honor his late wife. In fact, the plaques say in "In Honor of Astrid Ellersiek," not  "in memory of ..."

"Astrid was devoted to the preservation of Altadena, both its way of life and its physical environment," Brackman said in an email.  "She was instrumental in saving the Pacific Electric Substation on North Lake Avenue—the last vestige of the Mt. Lowe Railway—and turning it into an office for her employer, the Jim Dickson Co., and a museum of Mt. Lowe memorabilia.  As one of the first local realtors committed to historic preservation, Astrid was a co-founder of the Pasadena Board of Realtors’ Cultural Heritage Committee and a founding board member of Altadena Heritage.  We  hope that this reminder of Astid's devotion to Altadena will instill in all of us an effort to continue to carry out her preservation work. "

Afternoon delight: it's the food! [UPDATE: AltaEats is in the pipeline]

• AltaEats: Chef Paul Raglan of AltaEats won't talk to us, but he spoke the the LA Weekly.
• Altadena Farmer's Market:  Today's menu:  GypsyEats has a custom menu for today's market,  Brun's Creole Soul Kitchen will have po' boys,  and it is the last day for a few weeks to get Pine Street Products soaps. The market runs from 4-7 PM at Loma Alta Park, Lincoln Avenue and Palm Street.

UPDATE: We have made contact with Paul Raglan, who says he was busy (we don't doubt it!) so a story is forthcoming!

ACONA looks at food resources, heritage and visioning May 28

by Timothy Rutt

The Altadena Coalition of Neighborhood Associations (ACONA) will next meet on May 28 at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. , from 7-8:30 PM.

The meeting will include:

1. Ellen Walton, Altadena resident:

 

• The Arroyo Food Co-op
• What resources we need to convert to drough-tolerant vegetation in Altadena
• Organic food/groceries in Altadena
•  and more!

2. Mark Goldschmidt, President, Altadena Heritage and member of the Altadena Town Council Community Standards Committee:

• Lessons from the "heritage" of Altadena, which we can use today 
• Update on Altadena Visioning Study 
• Update on Scripps Home and the new MonteCedro home 

3.  Lt. Eric Lasko: Report by Altadena Sheriffs

Forest fire danger "high," officials say

by Timothy Rutt

The National Forest Service will raise the fire danger level from "moderate" to "high" as of Friday, according to a press release.

The forest service blames "[the] lack of significant winter rain and the robust amount of tall dry grass" for raising the level.

However, open wood and charcoal fires will still be permitted in approved "developed" campgrounds and picnic areas, according to the release.  Propane or jelled gas stoves and grills are permitted in non-developed areas with a valid California Campfire Permit.

The forest service says that visitors should check spark-arrestors on off-road vehicles, chain saws, and other internal-combustion-engine driven equpment.  Drivers should stay on designated roads and never park on dry brush or grass.

Find out about local conditions at your destination prior to leaving by visiting us online at:http://fsweb.angeles.r5.fs.fed.us/

Town council election goes online, high-tech, and social media

by Eric Pierce
Chairman, Election Committee

The Altadena Town Council Election Committee kicks off the 2013 Election season with Candidate Application packets available now at the Altadena Community Center, 730 East Altadena Drive.

Or save a trip and download the packet right from the web at AltadenaElection.org, Altadenablog or Altadena Patch.  Downloadable packets include an application that can be filled out right from your computer.  Just print it out and sign.

Getting Altadena Town Council Election information and updates has never been easier!  Friend Altadena Election on Facebook, and follow @AltadenaElect on Twitter.

Applications for candidacy, along with a check for $35.00 need to be submitted at the clerk’s window at the Community Center no later than May 17, 5:00 pm.

Saturday, June 8, is Election Day for Atladena Town Council, and a Candidate’s Forum is scheduled at 7:00 pm, May 21, during the regular Town Council meeting.

MonteCedro sponsors yoga workshop April 30

from MonteCedro

Did you know that yoga has multiple health benefits? According to the Mayo Clinic, yoga can help contribute to healthy lifestyle by reducing stress, improving fitness level and managing chronic conditions. 

On April 30, 2013, MonteCedro, a new planned Episcopal Communities & Services (ECS) Continuing Care Retirement Community in Altadena, will host Jenny Buchanan, Creator and Director of East Village Yoga in Pasadena, Calif. to introduce the relaxation techniques of yoga and meditation to the San Gabriel Valley area seniors and caregivers.

Buchanan will demonstrate various types of yoga poses that are age appropriate, and introduce health benefits of yoga and meditation such as easing high blood pressure, anxiety and depression. 

Seating for this event is limited. To register, please visit www.montecedro.org/info or call 877-282-1584.

WHEN: Tuesday, April 30th, 2013 at 3:00 P.M.

 WHERE: MonteCedro Presentation Gallery, 153 East Holly St., Pasadena, CA 91103 

Accident, Lake and Morada

Fortunately no one was hurt in a crackup this morning about 10 AM, car in motion vs. cars parked, that blocked the intersection just south of the Coffee Gallery.

The turtle's tale: Max comes home

Max the red-eared slider turtle, left, and the turtle found in March 2013.

After four years on the run, Max the turtle may be back home

 by Timothy Rutt

After four years of adventure --  Max the turtle is home again.

What adventures he's had -- he's not saying.

Max adopted the McLennan family about eight years ago.  Laura McLennon said the red-eared slider, an invasive species discouraged in California,  was bought from an Olvera Street vendor by one of her daughters, becoming the family pet.  They took care of him (or her -- hard to tell with a turtle) for four years.  They loved him -- they posted videos on YouTube. And, because he needed sunshine to keep his shell healthy, they frequently took him outside their home near Rubio Canyon and let him crawl around the yard.

But Max was a bit of a runner, McLennan said.  Red sliders can move surprisingly fast. "He could move quick when he wanted to, and could go out into the street," she said.

One day, her daughters Alex and Lizzy were watching Max during one of his outdoor sojourns. Max settled motionless in the yard.  After awhile, one daughter took off to run errands.  After awhile, the other got bored and went inside -- completely forgetting about Max until later that evening.

McLennan, an attorney at Moore McLennan, LLP, in Glendale, said that the family searched for days, but the turtle was gone, and eventually they faced the inevitable and gave up.

Cut to four years later: the daughters have gone off to college -- Alex to Minnesota, Lizzy to Ohio.  Life goes on.  Then McLennan saw an unusual found pet posting on Altadenablog: somebody found a red-eared slider near Allen Avenue and La Paz .

St. Elizabeth Parish Fiesta this Friday-Sunday

 

Carousel at the 2012 St. Elizabeth Parish Fiesta.

 

 

The annual St. Elizabeth Parish Fiesta takes place this weekend at the church, 1879 N. Lake Avenue.

The Fiesta includes carnival rides, a beer garden, food, live entertainment, games, prizes, bake sale, garage sale, and a special equestrian show.

Hours are: Friday, April 26, 6-10 PM; Saturday, April 27, noon-10 PM; Sunday, April 28, 11 AM-8 PM.

For more information, contact the parish office at  626-797-1167 or email info@saintelizabethchurch.org

Five Acres gala celebrates 125 years

from Five Acres

Five Acres celebrates 125 years of pioneering services that promote safety, well-being and permanency for children and their families at its 125^th Anniversary Gala, Swingin' on a Star – “The Spy Who Loved Five Acres” on Saturday, May 18, 2013, 5 p.m. at The Ambassador Campus in Pasadena. This event will raise critical funds to support its operating costs and ensure the continuation of its 11 programs which provide successful solutions for children and families in crisis. Event tickets are available at $250 per person and include live entertainment, cocktails, dinner, dancing, and the opportunity to bid on unique experiences in the live auction.

In 1888, Five Acres was founded on the belief that no child should ever be left without hope of a permanent loving family. Over the years, Five Acres has been working to provide effective education, prevention and treatment programs to address the varying needs of children and their families. Today, Five Acres is one of the oldest non-profit organizations in Southern California serving over 6,500 children and family members each year.

Distinguished guests who have confirmed their attendance include: Songwriter and producer, Tena Clark; Actor Matthew Lillard and his wife, Heather Helm; Writer Matt Nix and his wife, Melinda Stahl; Actors Sam Jaeger and his wife, Amber; and Chief Philip Sanchez of the Pasadena Police Department, to name a select few.

Crime blotter: pot candy bust and more

Pot candy bust, residential and vehicle burglaries, shoplifting ... quite a week!  Crime blotter provided by the Altadena Sheriff's Station.

Sunday, April 14

Between 10:00 PM and 10:00 AM (Monday) – A vehicle vandalism occurred in the 700 block of W. Sacramento Avenue. 

11:00 PM – A petty theft occurred at Johnny’s Liquor, 2615 N. Fair Oaks Avenue. Suspect described as a male, Hispanic, 18 yrs, 508, 170, black hair, gray hooded sweatshirt. Suspect last seen running westbound on Harriet Street. Loss: (1) 18-pack of Tecate beer. 

Monday, April 15 

12:30 PM – Near Woodbury Road and Windsor Avenue, two residential burglary suspects were caught by Pasadena Police Department and Altadena Deputies. Suspect Marquis Wyatt (male/21 years old) and Talon Marsh (male/23 years old) are suspected in several residential burglaries. 

7:30 PM – Gang Detectives from Altadena Station and Burglary Detectives from Crescenta Valley Station executed a search warrant in Glendora regarding a residential burglary investigation. Stolen items were recovered and linked to a burglary that occurred in Cerritos. 

Between 6:00 PM and 6:30 AM – A vehicle was reported stolen from the 1300 block of Harding Avenue. ***Vehicle was parked in the driveway*** 

Tuesday, April 16

Between 7:00 AM and 5:30 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 2000 block of Sinaloa Avenue. Loss: digital camera, sunglasses, and a strong box. 

Between 8:30 AM and 4:45 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 2100 block of Garfias Drive. Loss: laptop. 

8 PM – A female suspect was arrested for domestic violence in the 4000 block of Rising Hill Road after her boyfriend reported that she assaulted him. 

Wednesday, April 17

Detectives from Crescenta Valley Sheriff Station and Altadena Sheriff Station executed two search warrants in Pasadena and Altadena related to residential burglary investigations. Three suspects were arrested. 

Between 12:00 PM and 8:00 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 1700 block of E. Elizabeth Street. Suspect(s) entered the residence via the unsecured window. Loss: currency. 

Rescuers called in search for missing boy, ends well

by Timothy Rutt

Rescuer teams were scambled for about an hour this morning to find a missing 11 year old boy.

According to Dep. Marc Mrakich of the Altadena Sheriff Station, the boy was reported missing at about 7 AM this morning.  Mrakich said that the boy was reportedly upset about his recent grades.

There was some concern that he had wandered into nearby Hahamongna Watershed.  A helicopter was sent to the scene as rescue teams from Altadena and Crescenta Valley, as well as Temple City, Santa Clarita, and Montrose were either dispatched or getting ready to roll.

According to Mkrakich, the boy was never in the watershed, but returned home about 8:17 AM and was sent to school.

 

Altadena Town Council election documents available here [UPDATED]

by Timothy Rutt

The Altadena Town Council election is set for Saturday, June 6, and information packets are available.

Because they aren't currently on the Altadena Town Council's website, Altadenablog is hosting the packets for download on our own server.  Packets should also be available at the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Drive. Completed packets should be delivered to the Altadena Community Center no later than 5 PM May 17. There will also be a candidate forum at the Altadena Town Council meeting on May 21.

UPDATE: There's a website, Altadenaelection.org, which has candidate packets and signups for Twitter and Facebook to get town council information.

We also have applications and other documents after the jump.