altadenablog

Go PSYCO in free concert at Levitt Pavilion July 30

 

Some people are waiting with bated breath to bring their mothers to the PSYCO concert.

The Pasadena Summer Youth Chamber Orchestra (PSYCO) will present a free concert at Levitt Pavilion in Pasadena on Tuesday, July 30, at 6 PM. Marvin Neumann & Chad Prado, conductors

 

Program includes: 

Prelude to “Psycho”----Bernard Hermann

Bassoon Concerto—Mozart (Nathan Kirchoff, soloist)

Capriol Suite---Warlock

“Porgy & Bess” by Gershwin

“HoeDown” from Rodeo Suite ---Copland

The concert is sponsored by the Pasadena Senior Center.  Also supported in part with funds received from The Pasadena Arts & Culture Commission and City of Pasadena Cultural Affairs Division, and funds received from Pasadena Tournament of Roses® Foundation

The concert will be held at Levitt Pavilion at Memorial Park, Raymond and Walnut, Pasadena.  There is 90 minutes free parking at the Holly Street or Mariott parking structures.

The Blue Breeze Band blows into Saturday's Farnsworth Park concert

The return of the multi-talented group, Blue Breeze Band, will lull you into a trance with the sounds of Motown, R&B, Soul, & Funk music. You will get your mojo working with the harmonious tales of the Blues and enjoy the tasteful sounds of Jazz.

The Blue Breeze Band was formed in the late 90's and is comprised of talented musicians who have come together in order to forge a relationship with you, their listeners, through 60's, 70's, 80's & 90's heart and soul dance music, blue notes, and call and response melodic improvisation.

Thus far, Blue Breeze has acquired an impressive repertoire of performances for audiences from different walks of life from all over the world. To name a few, they have performed for former President Bill Clinton, the United States Armed Services in Okinawa, Japan, the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach and have headlined festivals throughout southern California. In addition, they have appeared as musicians in the Warner Brothers' feature film Why Do Fools Fall in Love- (The Frankie Lyman Story).

At the core of the Blue Breeze Band is a six-piece multi-talented group featuring the following artists:

 

Harold Wherry: Electric guitar and nylon string acoustic guitar

Nolan "Doc" Semien: Lead Vocals

Richard Moorings: Keyboards, Vocals and Trombone

Buster"Harrell: Drums and Vocals

Tim Anderson: Tenor Saxophone and Vocals

Darryl Bomar:; 6-String Electric Basses and Vocals

The Sheriff Support Group of Altadena's summer concert series starts at 7 PM on Saturday, July 20,  at Farnsworth Park Amphitheater, corner of Lake Avenue and Mt. Curve Drive.  Come early and bring a picnic or enjoy food provided by El Patron Mexican Restaurant, or get a box lunch from the Park Bench Grill ahead of time.  Beer and wine sales by the Altadena Rotary Club, with consultation from the Altadena Ale & Wine House.  Green room refreshments provided by Webster's Fine Stationers.

The summer concert series is sponsored by Warner Bros.; Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, Michael D. Antonovich; MonteCedro; Rotary Club of Altadena; Athens Services; Georgia Rutherford in memory of Don Rutherford;  Toyota of Pasadena; The Printworks; All American Audio Visual; the Altadena Sheriff's Station; El Patron Mexican Restaurant; and Altadenablog.  

 

CERT classes start in Sierra Madre in August

Training for Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) members will be held by the Sierra Madre Fire Department starting iin August. 

All classes will be held the week of August 17-24.  Space is limited, and reservations are a must.  The course is free.

For more information, check the flyer or go to http://www.sierramadreemergency.org/

Community Garden needs $2,000 to complete revitalization

by Timothy Rutt

 

A view from inside the Altadena Community Garden.

The Altadena Community Garden is appealing to the public to raise the last $2,000 for its revitalization campaign.

 

The garden has been embarking on a project to beautify the strip of land that surrounds the garden along the street, which has become a magnet for invasive plants and litter.  Garden members and students from Cal Poly Pomona have conceptualized a Corner Revitalization Project  that will fill the strip with California native plants, cactus and succulents, and drought-tolerant Mediterranean plants.  A solar-powered irrigation system has already been installed.

According to a letter from garden president Silvera Grant, the garden needs a final $2,000 of $14,000 estimated to acquire plants and other materials for the project.  Grant said that the majority of funds have come from garden members, the Board of Supervisors, Scott's, Altadena Heritage, the Altadena Kiwanis and Rotary clubs, and other private donors:

If you have not already done so, please consider making a contribution that will help us meet our goal.  Your contribution will do so much to showcase active Altadena citizens at work improving their community.  The project emphasizes smog, noise and crime reduction, water conservation, the beauty of native plants, and it provides habitat for beneficial insects and birds.  Last but not least, the project provides beauty for all to enjoy and pride in our community.

The garden provides 64 plots for local gardeners and runs a children's gardening program and Victory Garden extension classes.  Contributions to the Garden, a 501(c)3 corporation, are tax-deductible.  

 

For more information, contact Grant at 626-398-9840 or email silveragrant@gmail.com. Checks should be made payable to: Altadena Community Garden and mailed to: P.O. Box 6212, Altadena, CA 91103-6212.

 

Bulgarini Gelato conquers Los Angeles (if not the world)

by Timothy Rutt

Altadena’s hole-in-the-wall world class gelato place, Bulgarini Gelato,  just keeps adding to its accolades.

LA Weekly recently named Bulgarini the second-best place to get ice cream or gelato in LA  (Mother Moo Creamery in Sierra Madre, run by Altadena’s Karen Klemens, was No. 6).

On top of that, Bulgarini will be operating a gelato cart in the renewed Grand Central Market in downtown Los Angeles.  Altadena Farmers’ Market manager Joseph Shuldiner has been involved in a reimagining of the LA landmark, updating its offerings.  The cart will offer gelato, sorbettos, and granitas from 11 AM-6 PM, Monday through Saturday.

Bulgarini’s Altadena location (there’s also one in Culver City) is continuing to offer Summer Movie Night on Saturday.  This weekend, it’s La gloire de mon père ("My Father's Glory" - French), a sentimental story of a young boy's life in turn-of-the-century France. Marcel, witnesses the success of his teacher father, as well as the success of his arrogant Uncle Jules. Marcel and family spend their summer vacation in a cottage in Provence, and Marcel befriends a local boy who teaches him the secrets of the hills in Provence. 

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. Dinner is at 7:30, movie starts at dark.  Bulgarini Gelato is at 749 E. Altadena Drive.

UPDATE: On a related note, we missed it, but reader Greg Hendry noticed it: #3 is Carmela Ice Cream and Sorbet.  Now, while the review is for the Grove shop on Third Street, Carmela's mothership location is at 2495 E. Washington Boulevard in Borderdena

Town council swears in new members, postpones much else in election kerfluffle

 

Altadena Town Council chair Bernardean Broadous swears in councilmembers at Tuesday night's meeting; standing from left, Bill Ward, William Malone, Sylvia Vega, Damon Hobdy, and returning Brent Musson. 

Related Story: Town council members say chair hard to contact, lacks leadership

by Timothy Rutt

Tuesday night’s town council meeting was supposed to be a routine passing of the baton: new councilmembers sworn in and a new slate of officers appointed.

And, after a lengthy meeting, nothing quite worked out as planned.

Traditionally, the new and returning councilmembers are sworn in by a representative from Supervisor Michael Antonovich’s office, as the council serves as the supervisor’s eyes, ears, and advisers.  Since no representative showed, council chair  Bernardean Broadous conducted the swearing-in.

Later, the new council delayed the scheduled appointment of Ron Adams.  After no candidate ran for the vacant seat in Census Tract 4603.02, Adams submitted an application to be appointed by the council.  Marge Nichols, wearing a Neighbors Building a Better Altadena shirt, expressed that more public notice should have been given that the seat was vacant and open for applications.  The council agreed to delay the appointment by one month to allow other candidates to come forward.

Election controversy
But what occuped the bulk of the meeting was the selection of council officers.   A committee of outgoing councilmembers presented a slate of incumbent members -- Diane Marcussen for chair, Okorie Ezieme for vice chair, Brent Musson for recording secretary, Richard Moon for corresponding secretary, and Amy Cienfuegos as treasurer.

But that move was opposed by Eric PIerce, who had just received a notice of appreciation for his actions as Election Committee Chair earlier in the meeting.  Pierce, who is not on the council, said that Marcussen and Musson’s actions during the election process should be taken into account.  

The Fork in the Road to collect funds for Prescott firefighter families

by Timothy Rutt

The folks behind the Fork in the Road will be collecting donations this weekend on behalf of the families of the 19 Prescott, Arizona hotshot firefighters who perished fighting the Yarnell fire last month.

The Fork Foundation with the cooperation of the Pasadena Fire Department, City of Pasadena, Los Angeles Firefighters and The Pasadena Foothills magazine will be collecting donations on Friday, July 19, from 7 AM-5 PM and Saturday, July 20, from 8 AM-4 PM.

Drive by and fill the boot at the Fork, 200 Bellefontaine St. in Pasadena at the confluence of Pasadena Avenue and St. John Avenue. All checks made payable to Yarnell Hill Firefighters Fund.  100% of donations will go straight to this funds that helps the firefighters' families.

State Sen. Liu announces funds for energy projects

from the office of Sen. Carol Liu

Senator Carol Liu (D- La Cañada) announces that an estimated $450 million will be available to fund energy efficiency and clean energy projects, including roughly $47 million for schools in the 25th Senate District. Additionally, nearly $50 million will be provided to fund energy projects at California’s 112 community colleges.  These projects provide a triple benefit by reducing energy bills, improving school conditions and providing needed jobs to help employ the 400,000 plus unemployed construction workers in the state.

As a main recipient of funds from the Proposition 39 – California Clean Energy Jobs Fund for the upcoming fiscal year, public schools will benefit from long-term energy savings. Clean energy projects will help reduce energy and utility bills due to inefficient lighting, heating, insulation, ventilation, and air conditioning. 

Each school district will be provided a funding allotment based on the average daily attendance (ADA) and weighted for poverty. In order to ensure the projects proposed meet energy efficiency and clean energy requirements, school districts will need to submit an application to the California Energy Commission prior to receiving funds.  The Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office will allocate funds for community colleges based on the number of full-time equivalent students.

Proposition 39, the California Clean Energy and Jobs Act, was approved by the voters in November with more than 60% support. It closed a corporate tax loophole that only benefited out-of-state corporations. It will generate about $1 billion a year for California. For the next five years, half of the money will be going to the state’s general fund and the other half toward measures designed to create jobs and save energy. The Yes on Prop 39 campaign was co-chaired by Senator Kevin De León (D-22, Los Angeles), Tom Steyer, and former U.S. Secretary of State George Schultz.

 

Portantino to host talk show on Charter Cable

by Timothy Rutt

Former assemblyman Anthony Portantino, who recently declared his intent to run for state senate, is hosting a new talk show on Charter Communication's California Channel.

The half hour " The Question Is with Anthony Portantino" premiered this month, where Portantino discuss curent issues and problems facing California.

“We are extremely excited to have Anthony’s expertise, wit and political knowledge featured on Charter Communications. Anthony brings an amazing Rolodex of folks to draw from for guests and he has a knack for picking and probing into interesting topics. We think the show will be a hit with folks who want to spend a half hour to be entertained and educated about a broad group of issues,” said Del Heintz, Director of Government Relations of Charter Communications in a press release.

"The Question is .." has two shows filmed already: the first show features Dr. Michael Gottlieb, the physician who first identified HIV as a disease, and Eric Walsh, current director of the Pasadena Health Department and a past member of the President's Advisory Council on AIDS.

The second show, to be aired in August, features a discussion of AB109, the controversial prison realighment plan. Covina Police Chief Kim Raney, the current President of the California Police Chiefs Association and El Monte Councilmember Jay Gomez who is the President of the California Independent Cities Association are in the first segment.  The second segment features Los Angeles County Assistand SheriffTerri McDonald, Assistant Sherriff, Rev. Peter Laarman from Justice Not Jails and Dominic Correy, a student "chaser" at Learning Works School in Pasadena.

“Before I go back into politics I want to share as much information on hot topics as I can," said Portantino in the press release.  "Charter gave me the opportunity to probe current issues that I feel passionate about and to ask tough questions. It would have been irresponsible of me to pass this show up. So often, today’s programing features only a sound byte or two. The Question Is will endeavor to ask and answer questions about issues that the public should hear about and that no one else is digging into. I’m not shy and the questions will be tough on policy and opinion makers on 'The Question Is,'” concluded Portantino.

"The Question Is with Anthony Portantino" will air on California Chanel 101 Tuesdays andThursdays at 8 PM, and Saturdays & Sundays at 7:30 PM.

Portantino is currently a Visiting Fellow at the USC Unruh Institute of Politics and a member of the California Film Commission.

To View the First Show Go Here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f2VAWN_uzLE&feature=youtu.be

Celebrating ten years of the Altadena Community Center

Marlane Forsberg, Jane Brackman, and Kathy Hoskins of Altadena Historical Society sort and archive materials.

 

by Laura Berthold Monteros

In the 10 years since the doors were opened, the Altadena Community Center has proven to be a vital part of our town.  It houses the offices of several community organizations, including Altadena Town Council, Altadena Heritage, Altadena Historical Society, NAACP of Altadena, Altadena Chamber of Commerce, Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy, and Quality of Life Center.  The large community room is busy with meetings and presentations that enrich the lives of Altadenans.

 

Juanita DeVaughn and granddaughter Alena of NAACP of Altadena getting ready to cut the cake.

On Sunday afternoon, the Community Center celebrated its tenth anniversary with music, free tacos and burritos provided by El Patron, and of course, cake, provided by NAACP of Altadena.  Juanita DeVaughn and her granddaughters sliced and served.

 

 

Michele Zack and Rachel Hildebrandt welcome new resident Claudine Voznick (center) to Altadena Heritage.

In the Altadena Heritage office, Michele Zack, author of Altadena: Between Wilderness and City, and Rachel Hildebrandt greeted enthusiastic new resident Claudine Voznick.  Voznick and her husband recently moved into a house they have been renovating since June of 2012.

 

Altadena Historical Society volunteers Marlane Forsberg, Jane Brackman, and Kathy Hoskins talked about the addition of thousands of new photos that document the changes in the Altadena streetscape over decades, and what that will mean to piecing together the history of the area.

Some of the resident groups showed off their offices, and Altadena Rotary, who donated the flagpole on the front patio, was on hand to show support. Southern California Edison had a table to explain the installation of nine miles of new transmission lines.  The lines will be installed between June 15 and Dec. 31, and will run from La Cañada Flintridge to Pasadena.  Work in Altadena will take place in early to late August.

 

El Patron served up rice, beans, and tacos and burritos with a choice of carnitas, chicken, or carne asada.

 

Altadena Sheriff’s Station open house: protect and serve

by Laura Berthold Monteros

 

The Altadena Community Emergency Response Team staff a booth at the Sheriff Station Open House.

When the deputies at the Altadena Sheriff’s Station invite you in, they make sure you have plenty of hamburgers and hot dogs grilled up by Deputy Greg Gabriel, lots of shiny vehicles for the kids to look at, and horses who like to be petted.  

 

At Sunday afternoon’s open house, there were the usual suspects from Altadena Mountain Rescue Team with their pulleys and ropes and clamps, firefighters from Altadena’s Fire Station #11 lifting kids onto the  fire truck, EMT Andrew Hung from Schaefer Ambulance Service showing folks the inside of the ambulance, and the Altadena Mounted Posse with their friendly steeds.

 

Capt. Benedict at the door to the Detective Bureau.

There was something new and exciting, too.  Capt. John Benedict took us on a tour of the station, which was renovated about a year-and-a-half ago, and shared the plans to expand into space on the eastern side of the building that is currently used for storage and an office or two.  A 911 center will be added so that Altadena calls will come directly to Altadena, and not to Crescenta Valley Station, the jail will be brought up to current standards and reopened for use, and a Disaster Control Systems room will be brought online.  

 

When Capt. Benedict took over the station last year, he moved his office from the old space on the east side to a room more accessible to the public and hung the picture from the cover of Michele Zack’s Altadena: Between Wilderness and City on the wall.  The old captain’s office will be opened up into closet space and become a community center and when needed, an Emergency Operations Center with several televisions for monitoring activity.  

Crime blotter: 101 year old assaulted in a violent week

Two iPhones stolen in separate incidents, elder abuse of a centenarian,  and just a lot of physical violence this week, according to the crime reports.  Crime blotter provided by the Altadena Sheriff Station.

Sunday, June 30 
12:35 AM – Suspect Ricardo Valdez (male/22, Pasadena) was arrested by deputies at Lake Avenue/Loma Alta Dr. for public intoxication. 

Between 6:00 AM and 7:00 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 1000 block of E. Woodbury Road. Loss: laptop and jewelry box. 

Between 5:30 PM and 5:45 PM – A petty theft occurred at Verizon Wireless, 2230 Lincoln Avenue. Loss: black iPhone. 

8:00 AM – Deputies arrested a suspect (female/ 60 years old, Altadena) in the 100 block of Las Flores for physical elder abuse. The suspect/caregiver physically assaulted a 101 year old woman. 

Monday, July 1 
9:19 AM – A vehicle was reported stolen from the 600 block of E. Pine Street. Vehicle described as: white Toyota Yaris. ***Vehicle recovered in Temple City*** 

4:02 PM – Suspect unknown stole an iPhone from the Verizon Store at 2230 Lincoln Avenue. 

Tuesday, July 2 
2:40 PM – Deputies arrested a suspect (male/32 years old, Altadena) at LincolnAvenue/Acacia St. for physical elder abuse. The suspect physically assaulted his 69 year old mother. 

Wednesday, July 3 
Between 11:00 PM and 7:49 PM (Thursday) – A petty theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred in the 2200 block of Brambling Lane. Loss: coins. 

6:58 PM – Suspect Jessie Warren (male/59 years old, Los Angeles) was arrested at Fair Oaks Avenue/Harriet Street for public intoxication and drinking in public. 

Law and Disorder: you have the right to remain rockin'

 

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by Timothy Rutt

"Law and Disorder" brought classic rowdy rock tunes to Farnsworth Park in a high-energy, high caliber show that took you into custody and threw away the key.  Lead singer Angela Shepherd brought a tough Chrissie Hynde vibe to classics from the 60's to the 90's with lots of showmanship (even wading into the crowd a few times).  The cop rockers (Shepherd is a lieutenant with the Altadena and Crescenta Valley Sheriff Stations; two of her  bandmates are CHP)  went through a catalogue that included the Beatles, Rolling Stones, Heart, Journey, and the Pretenders (of course).  

Next week, the Motown sounds of the Blue Breeze Band.  The Sheriff Support Group Summer Concert series starts at 7 PM Saturdays through the summer.

Hip-hoppin' at the park after dark

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by Timothy Rutt

"Parks After Dark" started last week at Loma Alta Park, where a variety of activities for all ages and interests goes on every Thursday through Saturday night this summer.  Friday night had DJ'ing in the courtyard, and where there is DJ'ing, there will be dancing, and these young people were showing off their moves to a hip-hop beat.

County smart gardening workshop this week at Eaton Canyon

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There will be a free "smart gardening" workshop at Eaton Canyon Nature Center on Saturday, July 20.

Learn backyard composting, water-wise gardening, worm composting, and grass recycling.  No reservation is needed.

Sponsored by the Board of Supervisors, discount compost bins and worm compost bins (with worms) will be available.

The workshop runs from 9:30-11 AM at Eaton Canyon Nature Center, 1750 N. Altadena Drive.

 

A musical feast from Craig Newton at the Libraries July 16

Join musician Craig Newton for a musical feast at the Altadena libraries on Tuesday, July 16.

Multi-instrumentalist Newton will entertain with tasty tunes played on a variety of instruments.

Part of the library's Summer Reading Program, Newton will appear at 2 PM at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. ; and at 4 PM at Bob Lucas Branch Library, 2659 N. Lincoln Ave. 

Car seat safety workshop, free seats available at Loma Alta Park event

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There will be a child's car seat safety workshop and inspection as Friday, July 26, as part of the "Parks After Dar" program at Loma Alta Park.

The organization New Economics for Women (NEW) is partnering with Parks After Dark (PAD) at Loma Alta Park during the summer to provide a series of child passenger safety workshops as well as offering inspection and installation of car seats.

A safety seat workshop will be held from 6-7 PM.   Qualifying registered particpants can receive a free car seat (details on the flyer).

For more information or to register, call 818-887-3877.  

Pet of the week: Carlton

At the Board of Supervisors meeting, Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich presents “Carlton,” a 3-month old cocker spaniel 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 at 562-728-4610.

Altadenans rallying to find home for San Bernardino dog

There's a doggie on death row in San Bernardino County, and the call has gone out to see if anyone can foster or adopt her:

Lori Paul writes:

San Bernardino Shelter: Available immediately

I am a female, white  Jack Russell Terrier (shelter has listed as Chihuahua - Smooth Coated).  The shelter staff think I am about 8 years old.  I have been at the shelter since Jul 06, 2013.

http://www.petharbor.com/pet.asp?uaid=SBCT.A449531

(909) 384-1304  Ask for info. about animal ID number A449531

 

The [dog] ...  will be euthanized any time now. She has spent most of her life, according to those who impounded her, in a crate with little love and attention... yet staff at the shelter says she is a very sweet dog. She deserves better than what she has survived thus far ... Giving this abused and abandoned little lady a better life instead of death after all she has been through would be such a kindness. Imagine never seeing the open sky, going for a walk, sniffing flowers or rolling on green grass? This little one has missed it all, along with hugs and sleeping next to someone who loves her.

 

If transportation is a problem, please contact Bonny Schumaker, of On Wings of Care. She is currently out of state, but has a cadre of volunteers who will find a way to get this little dog to whoever can save her life and offer a loving home.

Free sod (first come, first served) at Glen Canyon & Pepper this weekend

Marc Striegel at Spectrum Associations writes us:

I am doing a turf removal project with PWP and the golf course stiffed me yesterday on coming by and picking up the sod I cut and stacked for them. 

It will have to go to the dump on Monday and I was trying real hard to avoid that and do some recycling if at all possible.  This ad is running as of 10 minutes ago: http://losangeles.craigslist.org/sgv/zip/3932900135.html

but I would love and prefer for Altadena folk in need to be served first.

PIck it up -- Glen Canyon Road and Pepper Drive.

Webster's Fine Stationers host local literati in July

Webster's Fine Stationers, 2450 N. Lake Avenue, continues growing as a hub of local culture this month.

Carol McKibben - Luke's Tale

On Tuesday, July 16, at 7 PM, come meet Carol McKibben, author of Luke's Tale - A Story Of Unconditional Love. 

This touching story centers around Luke, the  yellow Labrador Retriever with uncanny ability to understand human speech - and human hearts.  Told through the dog's own words, you'll find out why Luke, who is going blind from a genetic disorder, makes such a empathetic therapy dog, and how he brings his owners back together.

This story is based on Carol's real-life dog of the same name.  Although Luke has passed, Carol will bring one of her other therapy dogs for you to meet, and discuss how you can also feel unconditional love.

Bill Bunn - Duck Boy

On Wednesday, July 17, at 6 PM, join Canadian author Bill Bunn, who wrote Duck Boy, a novel that asks the question "what happens when your mother disappears, everything's going wrong, and you discover a mysterious power that allows you to travel and perhaps change the world?"  This is an evocative novel for young tweens, who will love the premise.

His book of complied essays, Hymns Of Home, are charming short pieces that will touch your heart, make you laugh, and often make you think.

There's a local connection to this writer - his editor is Altadenan Susan Foster Quintana, and publisher is Altadena-based Biting Duck Press!  Come meet both Bunn and Quintana at this event.

Polly Frost - Bad Role Models

Starting next Sunday, Webster's Fine Stationers hosts Polly Frost and her one-woman show, "Bad Role Models And What I Learned From Them."

The show is based on her life growing up in Altadena during the 1950s, 60s, and 70s.  Polly debuted the show in New York, where they love to hear about the disparity between big-city Pasadena and small-town Altadena.  We just love all the local flavor and humor!  So does Larry Wilson, who wrote about it here: http://www.pasadenastarnews.com/news/ci_23439689/larry-wilson-taking-show-road-back-altadena

Limited to 5 shows at a 40-seat capacity, you'll have to reserve your tickets quickly before they're all gone!  Tickets are $15 and can be reserved by calling 626-797-1135 or email" lorinscott_1@msn.com.

"McDonald's Men's Group" awards scholarship to two John Muir graduates

 

Back row: Tecumseh Shackelford, Gene Campbell, Velton Paggett, William Bradley, Tom Ralls, Otis Triplett. Front row: Tyler Pulley, Jeremy Rogers, Raymond Moore. Not pictured: Ernest Johnson, Harold Johnson, Clinton Madison, John E. McGee, Sam Mejia, Robin Salzer, Rev. John Stewart, Keenan Selico, Ken Snell, and Alvin Wyatt

 

 

by  Vincent Bryant
Community correspondent 

The "McDonald’s Men’s Group" makes a financial contribution to the young men graduating from John Muir High School.  Two John Muir seniors were awarded the McDonalds Men’s Group Scholarship. Tyler Pulley and Jeremy Rogers each received the $500 cash scholarship. Both students were hard workers, and the group wanted to reward them for being great examples. Pulley was accepted to The University of California at Irvine as Computer Science major and Rogers was accepted Cal State Los Angeles as an Engineering major.

The McDonald’s Men’s Group is a group of men that meet at McDonald’s on Lincoln Avenue and Woodbury Drive for breakfast Monday through Saturday. They discuss the world’s issues and try to come up with solutions to the current community problems.

When Otis Triplett was asked why he donates to the McDonald’s Men’s Group Scholarship fund, he said without hesitation, “I wanted to help the young men at John Muir High School as much as possible.  Our youth are a direct reflection of what our community will be in the future. I am honored to a part of this scholarship.”

For more information about contributing to the scholarship fund contact Gene Campbell at (626) 676-8900

Summer open thread

We want to hear from you:  what are your plans for the rest of the summer?  Vacation or staycation?  Beach, mountains, or spa?  With kids or without?  Comment away!

Found dog, Washington/Chester

Found a dog near the border:

We found this female dog on Tuesday, July 9 near Washington and Chester. I know this is below  Altadena, however she might have run pretty far due to all of the 4th of July fireworks. This sweet dog is well trained and obviously belongs to SOMEBODY! 

Respond to andrea_valluri@hotmail.com

Birdy the lost cat [is now the found cat]

Birdy (the cat) needs to be found:

Lost calico. Her name is Birdy and she didn't come home last night.

We live near Marengo and Mariposa.

Worried kids, thanks!

UPDATE:  That didn't take long -- Birdy's back at home.

Summer is on overdrive this weekend

It’s another busy summer weekend in Altadena -- let’s go!

Friday, July 12

Library Summer Movie Extravaganza: For teens and up this week, the movie is "Warm Bodies" (rated PG-13; 95 minutes): A tormented zombie experiences a profound transformation after entering into an unusual relationship with the daughter of a military leader charged with eradicating the walking dead. As the unlikely pair build a tenuous bridge between the living and the dead, those on both sides of the battle begin to sense that nothing in their world will ever be the same again.  3 PM at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. , admission is free.

Fancy Food Truck Friday: The popular event returns to the Webster’s parking lot today, from 5-9 PM.  This month’s food trucks include Cousins Maine Lobster, Game On! Gourmet, Komodo, Mandoline Grill, Rosa's Bella Cucina, and Coolhaus.  AND the jumpin’ sounds of the Jumpin' Flea Circus Players Ukulele Club will serenade you with familiar tunes in a new way. AND Websters' Community Pharmacy and Webster's Liquors are offering 20% off selected items tonight. Bring the kids, bring your friends, and enjoy an Altadena summer night.  2450 N. Lake Avenue.

Park after Dark: Swimming, sports, games, and so much more Friday and Saturday night at Loma Alta Park, 6-9 PM.  Something for all ages, and it’s free.

Morning jolt

 

• Custom costume:  It's ComiCon weekend in San Diego, and PSN has an interview with Altadena costumer Leslie Aitken on how to come up with the perfect cosplay outfit for your convention duds.
• Get Out Alive!  That's the name of the latest show from wilderness survival expert Bear Grylls, a summer series where teams take on survival challenges.  We'll be rooting for Wilson and Robin Shappard of Altadena to take it all.

"Parks After Dark" kicks off at Loma Alta Park tonight

by Timothy Rutt

"Parks After Dark," a program of evening activities for all ages and interests, kicks off at Loma Alta Park tonight, 6-9 PM.

Loma Alta Park will be holding the event every Thursday, Frida, and Saturday night through August 24.

Tonight, there will be classes on martial arts, Zumba. cooking, youth basketball, line dancing, 3-on-3 basketball, and a garden tour (full schedule of events available at the park).  Activities other days include teen co-ed volleball, hip hop dance, DJ battle night, family movie and game night, and open gym.

There will also be informative workshops, such as car seat safety, and an Aug. 8 community resource fair.

"Parks After Dark" wil also be held in Pasadena at Robinson Park, the Villa-Parke Community Center, and La Pintoresca Teen Center.

Sheriff's station taking applicants for new VIDA class

from the Altadena Sheriff Station

In providing the VIDA (VItal Intervention Directional Alternatives) program,  the Altadena Sheriff's Station recognize the importance of offering counseling, family action, community service, physical training, team building, and career guidance to wayward youth in our community. All this is done in an effort to help redirect negative behavior of our youth, who may be tempted to explore gang affiliation, drug use, or crime. 

Law enforcement personnel oversee the program and play a major role in the intervention and overall development of the teens. VIDA helps build self-esteem, motivate teens toward success, and aids in breaking the cycle of criminal behavior. For many, successful completion of the program can result in new beginnings, a new outlook, and potentially the establishment of a lifetime of positive influences and contacts. The ultimate goal of the deputies, and others involved, is to work with the youths toward the common goal of establishing a better and brighter future, away from negative influences. 

The VIDA academy focuses on several areas, including healthy living, academic and vocational achievement, truancy reduction, increased literacy, workforce preparation, improving parental relationships, and preventing substance abuse. We also perform home and school visits randomly throughout the week. 

"By placing positive influences around our youth, we can help them realize their self-worth, establish goals and avoid gangs, drugs, crime and negative influences," said Captain John Benedict. He added, "We must do our part with our youth, in prevention and intervention, as they are the future of this great community." 

Altadena Sheriff's Station launches TEEN CERT training

by Timothy Rutt

CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) is an active part of Altadena life and some neighborhoods, and the Altadena Sheriff's Station will be extending it's reach to area youth.

The station will be conducting a TEEN CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) training next Saturday, July 20, and Saturday, July 27, at Farrnswoth Park from 8 AM-4 PM.

For more information on how to sign up, call 323-526-5015 or email cert@lasd.org 

As a teen, there are probably a lot of things you've been told you can't do. But there is one very important thing you can do: Learn to protect yourself, your family, and your friends in case of a disaster. Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, is a national program of volunteers trained in disaster preparedness and emergency response. Volunteers come from all ages and all walks of life, including teenagers! 

Teen CERT training teaches you about the potential disasters that could affect your area and how to safely and responsibily respond to them. 

Through Teen CERT you can serve your community and help take care of your school and home. 

To find out more about the training visit: www.citizencorps.gov/cert 

Next week's town council transfers the baton

by Timothy Rutt

The Altadena Town Council will meet next Tuesday, July 16, where the major item of business will be old councilmembers stepping down and new ones being sworn in.

Along with that comes a bit of housekeeping: a new chair, co-chair, and other officers will be appointed.  Also on the agenda is appointing resident Ron Adams as representative for Census Tract 4603.02 for the 2013-2014 term.  Adams applied to be appointed after the election, in which nobody ran for the position.

Full agenda after the break.

Edison working on transmission line improvements thru summer

 

An Edison crewmember goes through a complicated trim of a deodar in Altadena last week, preparing for system improvements. Photo by Deb Halberstadt/Half City Productions and used with permission.

 

by Timothy Rutt

Southern California Edison, whose reputation in Altadena has been battered by Windstorm 2011 and years of frequent summer blackouts, has informed residents that it will be making improvements through the summer.

In town, the utility will be replacing poles and wires.  A letter shared by a resident reads in part:

Henkels and McCoy, an electrical contractor for SCE, will be working in your neighborhood upgrading facilities the affect your electric service.  Our work will take place in back yards as well as on the streets and will cause occasional outages for which you will be given advance notification.  ... We will be replacing poles, increasing wire sizes and replacing transformers. Working with ... Altadena... and SCE ... considerable tree trimming will be done by an approved tree trimming contractor.  Our crews will be working ... Monday July 8, 2013 and days to follow."

Outside of town, Edison will be working on poles and wires in the Angeles National Forest area adjoining Altadena, which may require stopping or redirecting hikers for several minutes at a time.  An email from Edison spokesman Ben Wong to local newsgroups reads:

Caffeinated conversaton at Café Culture

by Timothy Rutt

 

Capt. Benedict, left, and unidentified members of the community and Café Culture staff at Monday's event in this photo provided by the Altadena sheriff's station.

Altadena Sheriff Capt. John S. Benedict and some of the deputies held a "Coffee with the Captain" get-together Monday evening at Café Culture, 1359 N Altadena Drive.  According to a release from the sheriff's department, they discussed Neighborhood Watch, CERT, and other topics with local residents.

According to the release:

Captain Benedict has enjoyed meeting members of the community at these events. He finds these events an excellent opportunity to continue building on existing partnerships with the community and is very interested in hearing any questions or concerns anyone may have. These events help Captain Benedict and the Altadena Sheriff's Station in identifying and prioritizing issues occurring in the community. If you would like to host a "Coffee with the Captain" at your local business, please call the Altadena Sheriff's Station and ask for Community Relations Sergeant Matthew Bossier or Deputy Michael Spina. 

The Altadena Sheriff's Station number is 626-798-1131.

 

Farming and fooding demonstrations at Farmer's Market today

by Timothy Rutt

Summer Nights at the Altadena Farmers' Market continues today with some of the farmers demonstrating cooking, food preparation, and aquaponic garden techniques by the Great Lawn:

Tentative schedule is:

4:30 - 4:50 / Ja Sakrungrueng, Moua Farms - Cooking Asian Greens: Ongchoy and Yuchoy

5:00 - 5:20 / Scott Henley, Whisper Farms - Aquaponic Gardening 

5:30 - 5:50 / Kristy Baltezore, Rice & Beans - Cold Barley Salad

6:00 - 6:20 / Rishi Kumar, The Growing Home - Fresh Herb Tea and Summer Herb Drying

6:30 - 6:50 / Rosa Leon, Pine Street Farms - Purslane Salad

And of course there's the usual collection of some of the region's best farmers and vendors. The Altadena Farmers' Market runs from 4-8 PM Wednesday at 600 W. Palm Street, by the Altadena Community Garden.

 

I fought the law and the law won: Law & Disorder brings classic rock to Farnsworth Park Saturday

The Sheriff Support Group of Altadena continues its summer concert series on Saturday, June 13, with the arresting sounds of Orange County classic rockers Law & Disorder.

With a sound that is both powerful and melodic, “Law and Disorder” has built a large following on the strength of their live performances. “Law and Disorder” is the finest Classic Rock band in Orange County. Their outstanding vocal harmonies and musicianship brings people back again and again to see the band and hear the songs they love from the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s.  Many people from young to old have experienced the music of “Law and Disorder” at clubs, restaurants, concerts in the park, street fairs, private parties, and corporate events.  

The band consists of Dennis Ponzio, Angela Salamone, Brian Satterfield, Ron Johnson, and Johnny Martinez. 

The band takes its name because three of the members are or were cops:  vocalist Angela Shepherd (lieutenant at Crescenta Valley Sheriff's Station),  lead guitar Ron Johnson (CHP) and drummer Johnny Martinez (CHP retired).  Dennis Ponzio (guitar/vocals) and Brian Satterfield (bass) round out the group.

The Sheriff Support Group of Altadena's summer concert series starts at 7 PM on Saturday at Farnsworth Park Amphitheater, corner of Lake Avenue and Mt. Curve Drive.  Come early and bring a picnic or enjoy food provided by El Patron Mexican Restaurant, or get a box lunch from the Park Bench Grill ahead of time.  Beer and wine sales by the Altadena Rotary Club, with consultation from the Altadena Ale & Wine House.  Green room refreshments provided by Webster's Fine Stationers.

The summer concert series is sponsored by Warner Bros.; Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, Michael D. Antonovich; MonteCedro; Rotary Club of Altadena; Athens Services; Georgia Rutherford in memory of Don Rutherford;  Toyota of Pasadena; The Printworks; All American Audio Visual; the Altadena Sheriff's Station; El Patron Mexican Restaurant; and Altadenablog.  

 

Deputies arrest Altadena man in kidnapping, assault

by Timothy Rutt

Altadena sheriff's deputies arrested a local man on July 4 suspected of kidnapping and assulting his girfriend in San Gabriel.

According to a press release from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, the 20-year-old man arrived at the woman's home to speak about their daughter.  According to the release, the conversation became heated and he forced her into his vehicle.  The release says that he drove her around for about three hours before releasing her.

The release said that deputies from the Temple City station broadcast that she was taken against her will.  Altadena deputies went to the suspects's last known address in Altadena and found his car in the driveway.

According to the release, the man surrendered himself and was placed under arrest for kidnapping and assault.  He was booked at the Temple sheriff's station and detectives there are handling the investigation.

 

Sunday event No. 1: Sheriff Station open house

by Timothy Rutt

It's going to be a busy Sunday in Altadena, starting with the Altadena Sheriff Station open house, from noon to 4 PM at the station, 780 E. Altadena Drive

Bring the family for a day to meet the men and women of Altadena Station.  Learn about CERT, the Explorer program, the Altadena Mountain Rescue Team,  and take the tour.  

 

Sunday event No. 2: Celebrating ten years of the community center

from the Altadena Community Center Advisory Board

Local dignitaries (Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich in the blue jacket, center) break ground for the Altadena Community Center construction in this undated photo.

Right next door to the sheriff's station, the Altadena Community Center will hold a birthday party from 2 to 4 PM on Sunday, July 14. It has been ten years since the ribbon was cut on our “town hall” – a facility that is unique in unincorporated Los Angeles County. The Center provides office space for eight community organizations, a place for gatherings, and is fully staffed five days a week.

The Altadena Community Center Advisory Board, made up of representatives from each organization with office space in the Center, will host the celebration and open house beginning at noon. Local restaurant El Patron Mexican restaurant will serve food gratis in the courtyard, a no-host beer-and-wine garden will be run by the Rotary Club of Altadena, and music will be supplied by the Altadena Youth Jazz Band. The NAACP will provide the cake.

The program begins at 2 PM in the Meeting Room; each of the Center’s member organizations will give a short talk about what it does. Following, each will hold an open house in its office so members of the community can tour the facilities, and talk to the activists who serve our community through their groups.

Our Birthday Celebration Is timed to coincide with the Sheriffs Station Open House; a new gate and stairway connecting our two properties has been constructed to allow people to pass easily between festivities and learn about many opportunities for involvement.

This event is made possible by Supervisor Mike Antonovich, the ACC Staff, and Altadena Community Center Advisory Board.

The tenant organization-hosts are Altadena Heritage, Altadena Historical Society, Altadena Town Council, Altadena Chamber of Commerce, Arroyos and Foothills Conservancy, NAACP - Altadena Branch, Quality of Life Center, and the Sheriff’s Support Group of Altadena.

For more information email or call Mark Goldschmidt, 626/798-9687, mgdesign@sbcblobal.net,  or email Michelle Markman at micreative@mac.com

NOTE: The hours of the open house have been changed since we published this story -- music and refreshments begin at noon, and the program starts at 2 PM.

 

 

Sunday event No. 3: Shakespeare, exeunt omnes Sunday night

by Timothy Rutt

The California Shakspeare Ensemble ends its summer run Sunday at Farnsworth Park Amphitheater with a final performance of "Shakespeare's LOVERS", starting at 7:30 PM. 

Aviva Bauman (Bianca) is fought over by Lucentio (Fred Cross ) and Hortensio (Rodday Jessup) in "Taming of the Shrew," part of "Shakespeare's LOVERS."

 

The Ensemble is a collection of talented, attractive young working actors who love the Bard and show it in an anthology of some of his best work -- by turns poignant, moving, merry, and unafraid to try hysterically funny and slapstick.

CSE's Brian Elerding writes: "The California Shakespeare Ensemble is digging out the greatest scenes from all of Shakespeare's work and performing them live as part of "Shakespeare's LOVERS."  The show is fast-paced and fun, and will even have Shakespearean newbies understanding and enjoying. The show is a series of the ensemble members' favorite love scenes from throughout Shakespeare's catalog; from the popular to the obscure, the comic to the  tragic, the epic to the trivial."

Some of Shakespeare's best writing about love rarely sees the light of day: it is buried in lesser-known plays that don't have as much box office draw. We all know Romeo and Juliet, but when was the last time you saw Henry the Sixth Part II, or Two Gentlemen of Verona? Shakespeare's LOVERS takes the best of all worlds. 

Admission is $10, but no one will be turned down for lack of funds.  Bring a picnic or other refreshment and make an evening of it.  Elerding says the ensemble is already planning its next show: "Shakespeare's VILLAINS."

Poetry corner: the saga of Maysie

After the recovery of Maysie the naked dog Monday, our in-house poet has scribed a few verses:

"Maysie, Maysie, What Has Become of YOU! "

from gloriana casey

Maysie, Maysie, Susan  searched  wide for you.
She's half crazy---- and on her birthday too!
Your collar, you slipped and ran free,
her birthday was sad, dear puppy.
A naughty feat  on a wildlife street,
we hope nothing sad you'll meet!

West Nile Virus found in Arcadia, Covina

from the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District

District vector ecologists confirmed that three dead crows collected last week from the cities of Arcadia and Covina tested positive for West Nile virus (WNv).  So far this year, the District has confirmed a total of four WNv infected birds; three from the city of Arcadia and one from the city of Covina.

Birds are natural hosts for WNv and are routinely monitored to indicate whether the virus is active in the San Gabriel Valley.  Mosquitoes transmit WNv from one bird to another when they bite. People can become infected with WNv if they are bitten by an infected mosquito. 

West Nile virus threatens the health of San Gabriel Valley residents every year. While the illness is typically not life threatening, approximately one in five will develop disease that results in extended periods of significant fatigue and muscle weakness.  People over 50 years of age or with underlying medical conditions are at higher risk for severe illness which requires hospitalization and may lead to permanent disability.

District officials hope this information motivates residents to take the necessary precautions against mosquito bites and remove source of standing water sources around their homes.

Altadena Crest trail meeting tonight, Community Center

There there will be an Altadena Crest Trail Restoration Working Group (ACTRWG) Meeting tonight, July 9, at 7 PM at the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Drive.

Your participation and views are important. All are welcome! Please bring trail conditions, concerns and photos to this meeting for discussion.

Altadena Historical Society slides into the past July 22

by Timothy Rutt

The Altadena Historical Society's quarterly meeting and program on Monday, July 22, will slide into the past.

Leon Ricks, "The Mayor of Maiden Lane" (1928-2013)  was an accomplished photographer who documented four decades in the life of Altadena.  The Historical Society recently received a gift of over 1,000 slides from his collection.  This month's program will look at 100 of them, giving insight into Altadena's past.

The meeting starts at 7:30 PM at the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Drive.  Admission is free.

 

 

Missing naked dog: Maysie, Las Flores/Santa Anita [Found!]

Susan is missing her dog:

Late Sun nite, coming home from my birthday party no less, my Maysie, spayed shepherd mix, about 40 pounds, tan with black back, curly tail and very friendly, slipped her collar at Las Flores Dr. and Santa Anita.  So I have the collar with all her info and she is naked - except she is microchipped.  I can be reached cell 703-965-0199 and home 626-398-1490. 

UPDATE:  Maysie has been found, and is currently at Steve's Pets, being de-skunked.

Devore dogs need rescue

by Timothy Rutt

Bonny Schumaker alerts us to this:

Approximately 130 dogs that were rescued from a hoarder several weeks ago are now looking for rescue again.

The dogs  were seized by San Bernardino Animal Control officials on June 18 from Rainbow's End Animal Sanctuary.  According to news reports, the dogs have been living for years in one large pack without human interaction or proper food and medical care.

Animal lovers pitched in to have the dogs all adopted by the Devore Animal Shelter, which needs to disperse them quickly.  Because of the extensive behavior work and medical care they need, they are only being released to authorized rescue groups, which may only be able to take one or two of them.  Rescue groups must also take care of transporting the animals.

Schumaker, whose organization On Wings of Care is an authorized rescue group, had put out a call to any other rescue organization that is willing to take in and rehab any dogs.

If you can help, please contact her at :  bonny@OnWingsOfCare.org or 626-383-1412 (mobile & text) 

Big band boogie at Farnsworth Park opens concert season

by Timothy Rutt

The Down Beat Express kicked off the Sheriff Support Group Summer Concert Series with verve as they played big band numbers from the 1930's-1960's in the Farnsworth Park Amphitheater Saturday night.

A larger-than-normal crowd for the first concert enjoyed the band and vocalist Jennifer Gates as they brought back the American classic songbook, even if just for a night.  The theme of the concert was "Dance-Dance-Dance," and some brave souls took that chance to show off their swingin' moves.

The concert series continues every Saturday at 7 PM through the summer.  More pictures after the jump.

Found: one cat, and one wandering dog

 

We've had several people comment on a wandering greyhound-like dog (pictured) who was seen Saturday on Sonoma Drive between Mar Vista and Holliston and environs.  Looks healthy but acts skittish and will not come to anybody. If he's yours, here's a good place to start looking.

Also: found an adult grey cat in the Braeburn/La Solana/Carroll Drive area, appears to be female, no identifable markings, but friendly.  

UPDATE: One down: the kitty is home, no word on the dog!

 

ACTS Thrift Store to to celebrate third anniversary

Pasadena's ACTS Thrift Store will celebrate its third anniversary on Saturday, July 13, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. with live music, food from the Pie 'N Burger truck and 50% off on all items with an all-day coupon, available on the ACTS Website (http://www.actsthrift.org/3rd-anniversary-coupon).

All net earnings for ACTS stay in the local community to support social service and ministry organizations, including the Lake Avenue Community Foundation.

ACTS is located at 1382 Locust St., at the corner of Hill Avenue and Locust Street, south of the 210 Freeway and north of Walnut Street.For more information call ACTS Thrift Store at (626) 577-4477.

 

Philabosians and more at the Folly Bowl June 13

by Timothy Rutt

The Folly Bowl continues to light up Altadena with a concert on Saturday, July 13 at 7 PM:

Joe Beradi, Sykora, and returning favorites The Philabosians will perform.  Bring refreshments and something warm to wear, and whatever you pack in, pack out.

The Folly Bowl is at 1601 E. Loma Alta Drive.

 

Friday night lights at Farnsworth Park

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Shakespeare by the Sea performed "King John" Friday night at the Farnsworth Park amphitheater

by Timothy Rutt

It was a double-header at Farnsworth Park Friday night.  At the amphitheater, the San Pedro troupe Shakespeare by the Sea performed "King John," bringing the Bard to Altadena.

Meanwhile, in the lower ballfield, the Central Altadena Little League hosted local 9-10 year old All Star teams in a weeklong tournament.  Here, the Pasadena Southwest League (in blue) faces off against San Marino (in white).

 

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 It's not over yet: tonight (Saturday) the Sheriff's Support Group Summer Concert Series kicks off the the big band sounds of the Down Beat Express with Jennifer Gates.  And, next Sunday, the California Shakespeare Ensemble returns with "Shakespeare's LOVERS" at 7 PM.