Posted on Sunday, April 07, 2013 at 03:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
In celebration of Jazz Appreciation Month, the popular “Speaking Of” series at Pasadena's Allendale Library features a discussion with one of our area’s great musical treasures: legendary jazz trumpeter, cornetist, bandleader, composer, and educator Bobby Bradford.
An Altadena resident, Bradford grew up in the heart of the Mississippi Delta in the 1930s, settling in Los Angeles in 1963 after finishing college studies in Texas. Assimilating the musical language of such jazz greats as Louis Armstrong, Fats Navarro, and Charlie Parker, Bradford emerged as one of the most important jazz trumpeters in the 1960s and ‘70s, articulating a modern post-bebop, avant-garde sound while performing with Ornette Coleman, Eric Dolphy, and John Carter, and, in recent years, heading his own ensemble known as The Mo’tet.
For over thirty years, Bradford has taught jazz history and improvisation at Pasadena City College and Pomona College, inspiring and mentoring a generation of outstanding jazz musicians, including David Murray, James Newton, and Mark Dresser. Bradford, whose daughter Carmen is also an accomplished jazz singer, received the Festival of New Trumpet Music’s Award of Recognition in 2009.
Further information: (626) 744-7260 or visit pasadenapubliclibrary.net
SPEAKING OF: BOBBY BRADFORD
Allendale Branch Library, 1130 S. Marengo Ave., Pasadena
Saturday, April 27, 2013, 2:00 p.m.
Posted on Sunday, April 07, 2013 at 02:40 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
by TImothy Rutt
3:11 PM: Rescue crews are on the scene and more coming for at least one injury in Eaton Canyon. Scanner reports a 10 year old with head injury from a fallen rock.
UPDATE 3:14: Pasadena Fire is in contact with victim, apparently minor injury, crews are being returned home, per scanner.
Posted on Saturday, April 06, 2013 at 03:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
by Timothy Rutt
We didn't want to hear this one: Paco the crimefighting chihuahua is Altadena's latest missing dog.
Owner Duane Dier writes:
Paco the crimefighting dog is missing. Last seen on April 4 in front of his building at 3 PM. Please if anyone has seen or picked up my chihuahua please call me. He never leaves the vicinity.
Paco became a celebrity in 2011 when a security video of him fighting off two armed robbers at Ace's Smoke Shop went viral over the internet. Paco was a guest on several talk shows, and had his own website, Facebook page, and Twitter account at one point. If you know anything about his whereabouts, please call Dier at 626-590-6862.
UPDATE: Between the time the report came in and the time we published it, Paco was found. Drier said that a homeless man had befriended Paco, and Paco just decided to follow him up to the hills where the man lived. Drier said he got on his mountain bike to the cave where the man was living, and Paco is safe and sound.
Posted on Saturday, April 06, 2013 at 12:51 PM in Pets Lost and Found | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0)
by Timothy Rutt
The National Weather Service is predicing strong northwest-to-north winds across Southern California through Sunday, with even stronger wind predicted Sunday night through Monday night.
A Weather Service alert says there's a possibility of "damaging winds" in some locations in the mountains, with wind gusts as high as 60-70 MPH expected
The warning says "there is a possibility that mountain wave development could bring damaging wind gusts to the foothills above the San Gabriel Valley from La Crescenta to Sierra Madre."
Major roadways affected include I-5, and possibly the 210 and 118 freeways. HIgh profile vehicles should use extra caution as the wind event unfolds.
Posted on Saturday, April 06, 2013 at 12:28 PM in Weather | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Residential and commercial burglaries, and some shoplifting in this week's crime blotter, provided by the Altadena Sheriff Station.
Sunday, March 24
Between 1:30 PM and 9:30 PM – An attempt residential burglary occurred in the 100 block of E. Woodbury Road. Suspect(s) attempt to enter the residence, but no entry was made.
Monday, March 25
Between 4:00 PM and 9:15 AM (Tuesday) – A residential burglary occurred in the 1300 block of Rubio Street. Loss: crystal/brass chandelier. ***Loss was recovered the same day on the property***
Between 11:30 PM and 8:00 AM (Tuesday) – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 2200 block of N. Lincoln Avenue. Loss: black camera tripod.
Tuesday, March 26
12:00 AM – A petty theft occurred in the 2600 block of Windsor Avenue. Loss: black Sony DVD portable player.
Between 8:30 AM and 4:00 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 2000 block of Layton Street. Loss: iPad and jewelry.
10:30 PM – A petty theft occurred at the Arco AM/PM, 1880 Lake Avenue. Loss:three lottery tickets, nachos, soda.
Between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM (Wednesday) – A commercial burglary occurred at Sacred Heart Church, 2889 N. Lincoln Avenue. Loss: none.
Wednesday, March 27
Between 9:30 PM and 7:00 AM (Thursday) – A vehicle vandalism occurred in the 600 block of Ventura Street.
Thursday, March 28
12:05 AM – Suspect Terry Riley, 53, of Altadena was arrested for possession of stolen property. The property (several bottles of liquor) was identified and returned to the store/owner.
Between 8:40 AM and 9:15 AM – A residential burglary occurred in the 2100 block of N. Holliston Avenue. Suspect(s) entered the residence via the unlocked rear door. Loss: laptop in black case, computer monitor, credit card.
4:50 PM – A shoplifting incident occurred in at Rite Aid, 735 E. Altadena Drive. Suspect described as a female, white, 20-25 yrs, 5ft. 3 ins, 100 lbs., brown hair. Loss: Gillette Mach 3, iPad portable speakers, 15/5 USB charger, SHT & SHR 64MB memory stick, Maxwell 16GB USB drive, pens.
Saturday, March 30
12:46 AM – A petty theft from a vehicle occurred in the 2300 block of Grandeur Avenue. Loss: LED daytime running lights.
Continue reading "Crime blotter: burglaries and shoplifting" »
Posted on Saturday, April 06, 2013 at 12:13 PM in Crime, Crime Log | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
by Timothy Rutt
Yes, it's springtime, and the second Friday of the month is coming -- that means it's the return of Fancy Food Truck Friday at the Webster's complex parking lot, 2450 N. Lake Avenue.On Friday, April 12, from 5-9 PM, Webster's Community Pharmacy and Webster's Liquors will host six food trucks as the monthly event returns after its winter hiatus. In addition, customers will enjoy 20% special savings at Webster’s RX Gift Boutique and Webster’s Liquors. This sale is held exclusively during Fancy Food Truck Fridays only.
The Danny's Farm mobile petting zoo will also be there from 6-8 PM, to meet the friendly animals.
The food truck line-up for April is:
Parking is available on the lot and on surrounding streets. For more information, call 626-797-1163
Posted on Saturday, April 06, 2013 at 08:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
by Timothy Rutt
One of our favorite Alta-artists (and one of our teachers) is photographer Ibarionex Perello. He's featured this month in a video for Adobe Lightroom, (a computer program we still can't figure out), and is taking reservations for a unique adventure:
Under the umbrella of his podcast, The Candid Frame,you can join Perello on a flower walk through Descanso Gardens on May 4. You can be part of the group and sharpen up your skills by signing up here, where:
you’ll not only learn to take better photos, you’ll also be able to take-in the lush and rich garden festivals which celebrate the seasons, the cultures and the collections that define Descanso Gardens.Whether it’s photographing the Rose Gardens, the Japanese Gardens, the Oak Forest, the Camellia Collection, the California Garden or the Lilac Gardens, Ibarionex Perello will guide you through this beautiful photo-walk and help you see images like never before!
Cost is $55 for one person, $100 for two, and if you use the code "TCF FUN," you'll receive a discount. Sign up soon, because space is limited.
Check out his podcast, The Candid Frame, here.
Note: we embedded the Adobe video previously - but it keep starting up without human intervention and replaying, so we've opted for the link instead!
Posted on Saturday, April 06, 2013 at 08:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0)
The Altadena Sheriff's Station and Los Angeles County Parks and Recreation will be hosting the first ever Altadena Sheriff's Car Show on Saturday, April 27.
This family-friendly event promises to be fun, even if you're not entering a car for the show: there will be vendors, crafts, and art walk, and the classic rock band The Answer will perform.
The event will be at Farnsorth Park from 9 AM-5 PM. Car Show entrants should arrive between 7:30- 8:30 AM.
Categories include: Antiques, Street Rods, Classics, Trucks, and Motorcycles, either stock or modified.
Registration fee is $25 before April 12 and $30 after, with goodie bags for first 50 entrants.
Judging will start at 10:30 AM and trophy presentations at 2:30 PM.
If you're interested in entering your car or participating as a vendor, please contact Sergeant Matthew Bossier, Deputy Michael Spina, or Deputy Greg Gabriel at 626-296-2107.
Posted on Saturday, April 06, 2013 at 08:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
from the Pasadena Unified School District
Kindergarten enrollment has begun at PUSD elementary schools. Contact your neighborhood school for details or to schedule a tour.
Many schools will be participating in PUSD’s Kinder Day on Wednesday, April 10 with tours, kindergarten readiness information and more. To be eligible for kindergarten in PUSD, a child must turn five years old by Sept. 1, 2013. PUSD will also be offering transitional kindergarten for children turning five between Sept. 2,, 2013 and Dec. 1, 2013.
To register for kindergarten, a parent/guardian must provide a copy of the child’s birth certificate, immunization records, proof of rent or home ownership within PUSD’s boundaries and a recent utility bill in the parent/guardian’s name. Call 626-396-3600, ext. 88340 with enrollment questions.
Parents can also register their child for kindergarten for the 2013-2014 school year at PUSD’s Kindergarten Registration and Readiness Fair Saturday, April 20 from 9 a.m. – Noon at the Rose City Great Room located at the corner of Oak Knoll Avenue and Del Mar Boulevard in Pasadena. Free immunizations for incoming kindergartners who are Medi-Cal eligible or uninsured will be available. Families can also learn about how to prepare their child for kindergarten, what pre-kindergarten summer programs are being offered by the Pasadena Educational Foundation and other groups, and more about PUSD’s state recognized transitional kindergarten program.
Posted on Saturday, April 06, 2013 at 08:38 AM in Education | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
UPDATED: The Altadena Sheriff's station sent out the following press release about today's rescue:
On April 5, 2013, at 7:00 am, Altadena & Sierra Madre Search and Rescue Teams along with Los Angeles County Sheriff's helicopter Air-5 responded to Eaton Canyon regarding 5 missing hikers that were reported missing from yesterday.
Due to thick fog, LASD Air-5 could not locate the hikers. Reserve deputies from the search and rescue teams hiked into the canyon and found all 5 hikers above the second waterfall area of Eaton Canyon. All 5 hikers were not injured and were safe. The search and rescue teams escorted the hikers out of Eaton Canyon without incident.The female adult and 4 adult males were from Santa Ana, Glendale, Cypress and Long Beach.
Editor's note: These hikers needed to do two things: watch the video here about the dangers of the second waterfall, and remember to file a hiking plan (form is here).
Posted on Friday, April 05, 2013 at 11:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0)
The Altadena Sheriff Station is reporting that a rescue is underway for five hikers reported missing in Eaton Canyon. We are getting reports of vehicles deployed at the 1700 block of Altadena Drive. More to come.
Posted on Friday, April 05, 2013 at 11:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Phoebe Snow singing "Poetry Man" -- forgive some Boomer indulgence!
from the Altadena Library District
This April as National Poetry Month offers lots of poetry events to choose from. Three programs will be sponsored by the Friends of the Altadena Library including two poetry workshops (April 20 and 23) plus the annual Poetry and Cookies Celebration (April 27). These events are in turn part of the month-long San Gabriel Valley Poetry Festival.
This coming Saturday, April 6 at 3 PM is the “kickoff” event for the festival and features a free raffle and prizes for all readers! The reading is hosted by Rina Rose and Mary Torregrossa inside the backroom of the Santa Catalina Branch of the Pasadena Public Library on 999 East Washington Blvd. So dust off that poem you have hidden in your drawer and get ready to read, write or listen to some great poetry. See below for a schedule of all of the events in the festival.
Saturday, April 6, 3 to 5 PM - FESTIVAL KICKOFF open poetry reading (with free raffle, prizes for all readers) hosted by Rina Rose and Mary Torregrossa inside the backroom of the Santa Catalina Branch of the Pasadena Public Library on 999 E. Washington Blvd.
Tuesday, April 9, 7 to 10 PM - ZZyZx WriterZ MEETING & READING hosted by Kimberly Cobian, backroom of Garfono's Pizza, 5468 Valley Blvd. El Sereno near Cal State L.A. (Casual reading and networking with fellow writers and artists. Bring some writing or art to share.)
Wednesday, April 10, 7:30 to 10 PM - SHOUT! Open mic hosted by Eric Morago featuring Andres Bermejo, Xochitl Julisa-Bermejo, & TBA ,Half Off Books on 6708 Greenleaf Ave. Whittier.
Saturday, April 13, 3 to 5 PM - THE DEAD & THE LIVING open poetry reading (each reader reads poems from dead and living poets) hosted by CaLokie inside the backroom of the Santa Catalina Branch of the Pasadena Public Library on 999 E. Washington Blvd.
Wednesday, April 17, 7:30 PM - Haiku Open Mic at Bean Town Coffee Bar 45 N Baldwin Ave Sierra Madre, CA 91024 hosted by Debbie Kolodji. National Haiku Day (17 for 17 syllables)
Continue reading "April is the coolest month: Poetry Month events (including three in Altadena!)" »
Posted on Friday, April 05, 2013 at 06:38 AM in Library | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Posted on Friday, April 05, 2013 at 06:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Diane has found a pitbull about 1:30 PM, first seen at New York and Coolidge, and now it's in her backyard where it's confined.
Black, young, and recently neutered judging by the shaved areas on his body. No collar or other identifying marks. He can't stay there much longer, because the two dogs who lives there can't go out while he's in the back yard. He will be going to a shelter soon.
UPDATE: He's home now.
Posted on Thursday, April 04, 2013 at 01:35 PM in Pets Lost and Found | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0)
This sweet guy or gal (did not have time to check) came up to my son and me in our driveway. We drove around for 30 minutes asking neighbors to no avail. It is in my backyard. Please call me if you know where this sweetie belongs. So friendly. Wearing a black collar with bones and paw prints but no tags.
Found this morning (April f4) on Glenrose Avenue north of Loma Alta Drive. It he/she (don't know yet) yours?
UPDATE: Home again.
Posted on Thursday, April 04, 2013 at 11:56 AM in Pets Lost and Found | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
41st District Assemblyman Chris Holden will hold a "100 Days Town Hall" on Thursday, April 18, at his district offices.
According to Holden's office, this is an opportunity to talk about issues that affect the district, from transportation to business to education. Bring your ideas and they will supply cookies and coffee.
RSVP to 626-351-1917. Holden's office is at 600 N. Rosemead, Suite 117, Pasadena.
Posted on Thursday, April 04, 2013 at 10:26 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Adults 50 years and older are invited to take part in a new program at the Crescenta-Cañada or Verdugo Hills Family YMCA: 50 MOVING FORWARD.
Co-sponsored by Pfizer, Inc., the program is a healty living plan designed to motivate adults age 50 and over "with fresh ideas around behaviors that experts say are crucial to healthy aging: physical activity; preventive measures like screenings and vaccinations; healthy eating; and social interaction."
Adults 50 years and older currently make up more than 30 percent of the US population, and by 2015, they are expected to represent 45 percent of Americans. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that adults 50 and older have a 70 percent chance of developing at least one chronic disease.
50 MOVING FORWARD goes beyond the basic tenets of healthy eating and physical activity and highlights the importance of helping prevent health problems before they arise through screenings and vaccinations, and the health benefits of staying socially active and connected. One of the most beneficial things people can do is take steps to prevent illness. Even those who already practice healthy habits should be aware of things that may affect their health because as people age, their immune systems naturally begin to weaken.
Whether those 50 years and older are just getting started or are already practicing healthy habits, 50 MOVING FORWARD will help adults overcome barriers to making healthy lifestyle choices. Participants can enroll:
The YMCA of the Foothills is one of 25 across the country that will offer specially designed 50 MOVING FORWARD weekly wellness events, classes and workshops. Both YMCA members and nonmembers are invited to join 50 MOVING FORWARD for free. A full calendar of events is available at www.ymcafoothills.org.
For more information, contact :1930 Foothill Blvd. La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
Posted on Thursday, April 04, 2013 at 10:25 AM in Health | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
by Timothy Rutt
The group LA2050 is planning to give a $100,000 grant to local organizations to implement some good ideas for the future. Locally, the Quality of LIfe Center/ Bright Futures Scholars is looing to be one of the top 10 vote-getters in the field of 279 applicants to receive a portion of the grant monies.
Right now, voting is open to determine who is eligible (and voting ends April 17). The Quality of LIfe Center sent out an e-mail blast to its supporters, urging them and everyone they know to vote for the organization and keep them in the running. According to the email
We need your votes and we need for you to spread the word to every one of your family members, friends, colleagues, etc., in other words your entire database, and ask those who you forward this to vote and also forward to their entire databases, as well.
We know how much you love and appreciate what our agency does for the Bright Futures Scholars and all of our other programs that help this community and this is a FREE way for you to give back for the advancement of education of the children of our communities. For those of you who are not as familiar with all of our programs please visit our website at www.QualityOfLifeCenterInc.com . Vote as often as you can, but VOTE! Make sure that everyone you know also VOTES and forwards your message on to their databases. Let's help to take Quality of Life Center, Inc. to the next level!
To vote for the Quality of Life Center, go right to their voting page: http://myla2050.maker.good.is/projects/
Posted on Thursday, April 04, 2013 at 10:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
LThe Bob Lucas Branch Library will hold a special parent workshop on Tues., April 16, at 2 PM on how to access community health resources.
The program, in English and Spanish, is provided by the Altadena Library District and Young & Healthy as part of National Library Week.
Parents will receive free parent notebooks, discover local health care resources, learn how to be the family's health care advocate, and learn what to do in an amergency. Refreshments will be provided.
The Bob Lucas Branch Library is at 2659 N. Lincoln Avenue.
Posted on Thursday, April 04, 2013 at 09:47 AM in Library | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
from the Pasadena Unified School District
The Henry W. Longfellow Elementary School PTA invites the public to attend a centennial celebration for Longfellow School in Pasadena on May 18, from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm at the school’s campus at 1065 East Washington Boulevard. The celebration will feature student music, art and literature, a local vendor arts and crafts fair, community exhibitors, an alumni Longfellow School history project and time capsule, crafts and activities, and food vendors. Longfellow School opened its doors for the first time in the fall of 1912 in a Henry Mather Greene-designed building. One hundred years later, Longfellow School remains a strong neighborhood school in the Pasadena Unified School District.
Longfellow Alumni from all eras are invited to attend and to participate in a Longfellow School history project. Local artists interested in setting up a sales booth at the event may use the contact information above to obtain an event application. The Longfellow Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) will also be accepting donations toward a Centennial Fund, which will be used to refurbish the outdoor play area and school garden. More information can be found at www.ptalongfellow.org/centennial/.
About Longfellow Elementary School: http://www.longfellow.pasadenausd.org/
Posted on Thursday, April 04, 2013 at 09:17 AM in Education | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
by Timothy Rutt
The Pasadena Unified School District is offering a $1,500 cardiac test to student athletes for only $85 in a clinic Sunday at Marshall Fundamental School.
According to a press release,
Heartfelt Cardiac Projects will offer echocardiograms (ECHO) and electrocardiograms (EKG), which typically cost around $1,500, for a tax-deductible $85 donation at the clinic Sunday, April 7 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. 60 screenings are being provided at no charge for PUSD student athletes.
The cardiac screenings are available for any individual five years and older. Please visit http://heartfeltcardiacprojects.org/schedule-a-screening/ to make an appointment to be tested and to see testimonials of students who have had heart ailments detected by the screenings. To learn more about hypertrophic cardiomyopathy visit http://www.kencarlsonfoundation.org/hcm.html.
The tests are descibed as " lifesaving tests that can identify previously undetected cardiac conditions."
Justin Carr, 16, of Altadena, a student at Harvard-Westlake School, collapsed during swim practice and died Feb. 22. The cause was identified as an undiagnosed cardiomyopathy, a weakening of the heart muscle.
The clinic will be held Sunday, April 7, from 9 AM-2 PM at Marshall Fundamental Secondary School Gymnasium, 990 N. Allen Ave., Pasadena
Posted on Thursday, April 04, 2013 at 08:50 AM in Education, Health | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Coleen found a dog Wednesday morning at about the corner of Corona and Palm Street. It followed her home, and seems to have a story:
Neighbors in that area say the dog is out on the streets most of the time. It's been found tied to a milk container filled with rocks (?) and tangled/ tied to a fence in church parking lot.
Small, male terrior mix, mostly white with a few tan markings. Dirty, matted fur, no tags or collar.
Contact me at: 626-755-8141
Posted on Thursday, April 04, 2013 at 08:34 AM in Pets Lost and Found | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
by Timothy Rutt
There's been a slew of good stuff out today, and it all seems to be orbiting around Altadena's own Joseph Shuldiner.
First, a website called Lifestyle Mirror says that Altadena will be the next big thing in food (but you knew that!). It credits Shuldiner, lord of the Altadena Farmers' Market and Institute of Domestic Technology, and we can't deny it. It's a short web-post, but read it!
Second, the Institute has announced its spring course of classes, which will be held both in Altadena's Zane Grey Estate and the historic Greystone Mansion (which offers a vintage speakeasy for cocktail crafting classes). It will also be marked by a field trip on May 3-5 through Santa Ynez, looking through organic farms and a "biodynamic winery" (check the latest offerings here).
Third: the Altadena Farmer's Market is today from 4-7 PM at Loma Alta Park, and it welcomes Grill Masters chicken aficianados. The LA Weekly called them "the best," and you can read a fawning review here.
Fourth: Don't forget that Pasadena Magazine is holding its "Fete at the Farmer's Market" next week in Altadena from 5-7 PM. A celebration of the release of the March/April "Luxe Living" issue, guests will be treated to cooking demonstrations from the expert chefs of La Grande Orange Café, and learn how to create signature cocktails from the skillful mixologists of 1886 Bar at The Raymond. This event will also feature jam-making and coffee-roasting demos from the Domestic Institute of Technology, live music, raffles, and more! To attend, RSVP at rsvp@pasadenarose.com.
Posted on Wednesday, April 03, 2013 at 10:06 AM in Farmers Market, Food Culture, Music | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
The Altadena Library's youth services announces their storytime activities through the spring.
Teddy Bear Storytime, for ages 6 and younger, meets on Mondays at 7 PM; put on your pajamas, grab a bedtime buddy, and join them for stories, songs, and a bedtime snack.
Preschool storytime is Wednesdays at 11 AM, for children ages 3-5 and their parents, including stories, fingerplays, crafts, snacks and a musical parade.
Infant/toddler storytime is Thursdays at 11 AM for children under age 3 and their parents and caregivers. Interact through stories, song and rhymes.
Storytimes cannon accommodate special groups or daycares,. Please contact the Children's Department to arrange a story time for your group.
The Altadena Main Library is at 600 E. Mariposa St.
Posted on Tuesday, April 02, 2013 at 09:49 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Young adults are all about Facebook, and the Altadena Library is going to oblige!
One of the easiest ways to keep up with what's going on in the library for kids and teens (and their parents!) is to "like" them on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AltadenaLibraryDistrictYouthServices)
Posted on Tuesday, April 02, 2013 at 09:28 AM in Sponsors | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Altadena yoga teacher Anne Bosi is continung her series of yoga classes at the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Dr. All levels are welcome, but Bosi says she is tailoring the classes for the beginning student.
The classes are in four week sessions on Wednesdays from 5:30-6:30 PM and Thursdays from 1-2 PM. Each session is $45, or $14 per individual class.
For more information or to register, call 626-798-1527 or email: anne_at_aum@netzero.net. Click on the graphic for more details.
Posted on Tuesday, April 02, 2013 at 09:14 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
A cat has taken up residence on a front porch not its own. Mary says:
This cat showed up in the neighborhood near Holliston and Mendocino in Altadena weeks ago and we thought it was a new cat in town. It could be that it is someone's pet, but it lives on my front porch during the day and disappears at night. We are feeding it since it does not look well cared for. It is fairly tame, and a bit shy. If it has a home, please call and advise. It has a very distinct physical trait that will identify it.
Petite long haired cat with white chin and throat. It has a grey and orange coat, and could be considered a diluted tortoise shell coat with spots and some stripes.
626.794.6739
Posted on Tuesday, April 02, 2013 at 08:58 AM in Pets Lost and Found | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Posted on Tuesday, April 02, 2013 at 08:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
by Timothy Rutt
After five years of meeting, planning, and organizing, the Arroyo Food Co-op (Altadenablog sponsor) has signed a lease on a site in Pasadena, and has started a capital campaign to finally open its long-awaited community-owned grocery store.
Over 98% of the co-op members who voted gave their approval for the Board of Directors to lease the former George's Market at 494 N. Wilson Avenue. The approximately 4,900 square-foot building is at the corner of Wilson and Villa Street
"We looked high and low to find just the right spot to open the Co-op. We looked for all those things that make a location a good location,” said co-op president Tricia Keane said in a press release. “We wanted it to be as close to our members as possible, and conveniently located for members of the public. I always had a dream that we would find a former grocery store just waiting for new people to move in, and, apparently, dreams do come true. The former George's Market site has all the things we were looking for—and then some. This is truly an exciting time to be part of the Arroyo Food Co-op.”
The press release says that:
Along with signing the lease, the Co-op announced the kick off of its capital campaign to raise the final funds necessary to open its doors. The Co-op needs approximately $70,000 to refurbish and renovate the site and another $251,000 for operational expenses, primarily inventory. Although loans from the co-op’s existing members will form the bulk of these funds, the co-op is actively seeking new members. Furthermore, current members are being encouraged to reach their full membership investment if they have not already. The Co-op currently counts a total of 550 members, both full- and partially-vested.
Patrick Reagan, o-op CFO and founder, said in the release: “This wonderful site, the strong health of the Co-op’s finances, and the promising response we’ve received from the community, all compelled us to jump when this lease opportunity came up. Years of hard work have brought us to these last steps before we open our doors. With the community’s continued support, we’ll clear these remaining milestones, establish a significant resource for healthy food, and provide yet one more example of how well the cooperative business model works for a local economy.”
The co-op, formally established as a California Consumer Cooperative Corporation in 2009, says it is an alternative to corporate-owned grocers, and it entirely owned by its members. It will offer organic, sustainable, and locally sourced products along with humanely raised meats, fair trade items, and non-GMO produce. Features such as a deli, coffee bar, and community space are also being considered for the site.
Membership to the co-op is $300, which can be paid in installments of as little as $30 a year. Member-owners receive additional benefits, including patronage refunds during profitable years. Everybody, not just members, is free to shop at the co-op.
For more information about the Co-op’s location, its capital campaign (including how to make a loan) and becoming a member, visit www.arroyofoodcoop.com.
More views of the market site are available here.
Posted on Monday, April 01, 2013 at 01:24 PM in Business, Food Co-op, Food Culture | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0)
The Folly Bowl impresarios Susanna Dadd and James Griffiths have announced their summer concert series, which marks the return of some old favorites.
"Celebrating Ten Years of Folly" is the theme for Bowl, which is a terraced garden amphitheater in their back yard on Loma Alta Drive.
Performers will be:
May 25: Paul Livingstone, sitar
June 2: The Briton Ensemble, "choral ditties."
June 22: HB3
July 13: Philabosians
July 27: Troy Evans: stories
Aug. 10: Addi Somekh, balloon bassist extraordinaire
Aug. 24: Laura Kraning with her film "Devil's Gate," and Kevin Mitchell.
Aug. 31/Sept. 1: Carole Kim and friends
Mid-Sept: Tesserae, early music.
The Folly Bowl joins the Sheriff's Support Group of Altadena Summer Concert Series in Farnsworth Park and the Big Hat Promotions cowboy/western series to make Altadena a summer concert destination.
Posted on Monday, April 01, 2013 at 10:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
A few words about April: One, Altadenablog doesn't pull April Fool's pranks -- what you see here is what's really happening (and don't think we haven't thought of fabricating a story about La Vina becoming a nudist colony, but really, we try to wear our big boy pants here).Posted on Monday, April 01, 2013 at 09:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Time for our monthly salute to Altadenablog's sponsor team:
Friends of the Altadena Library
Judy Rubin Architectural & Previews Specialist
Linda Seyffert & Associates/Podley Properties
Rancho Bar
Altadenablog is the best place to advertise your local business to your local audience, where we've been bringing the news to Altadenans for five years. We concentrate on the neighborhood level news that concerns Altadenans and that you can't find anywhere else. We're a local business that STILL covers important local government meetings, as well as local business, policing, and arts and culture.
And we promise something else: your ad, on every page, every time. Nobody else offers that.
And if advertising isn't in the cards for you, but you'd still like to support Altadena's only locally-owned and -operated news website, we've opened the The Altadena Wall of Awesome! Anybody who buys an entirely-voluntary subscription (which gets you nothing extra, by the way!) gets our eternal gratitude and your name on the Wall for a year! (You can be anonymous, too -- just tell us!) Your contributions will largely go to improving our coverage by providing improved rates to our freelancers and some planned upgrades in the website.
The contribution button is here, and the Wall of Awesome is here.
The best way to thank our local business sponsors is to patronize them!
Posted on Monday, April 01, 2013 at 09:16 AM | Permalink | TrackBack (0)
by Timothy Rutt
Easter Sunday awoke with praise, shouting, and preaching this morning, as the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance held its annual Easter sunrise service at Farnsworth Park. Dr. Joy Jittaun Moore, associate dean of African American Church studies and Assistant Professor of Preaching at Fuller Theological Seminary, proclaimed the Easter message to the more than 200 early risers.
Churches around Altadena and the world will celebrate the most important day in the Christian year today -- which is also celebrated with eggs and rabbits to proclaim spring. The gnomes have redecorated for the occasion.
Posted on Sunday, March 31, 2013 at 07:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Posted on Sunday, March 31, 2013 at 07:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0)
At the Board of Supervisors meeting, Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich presents “Precious,” a 3-month old Toy Chihuahua 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.
Posted on Sunday, March 31, 2013 at 01:14 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
by Timothy Rutt
The Altadena Sheriff's Station is reporting that search and rescue team members rescued a hiker Saturday morning March 30.
According to a release, the Altadena Mountain Rescue Team along with sheriff rescue helicopter Air 5 responded at aroudn 10:19 AM to a hiker who had tripped and fallen on the hiking path. According to the release, the hiker broke her nose. She was airlifted to Huntington Memorial Hospital.
Posted on Saturday, March 30, 2013 at 04:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
by Timothy Rutt
The Altadena Sheriff's Station, along with the FBI, arrested a suspect for weapons violations and detained numerous people in a warrant search Friday ... or was it Thursday?
According to the press release, the warrant was served and subsequent arrest occurred on Friday, March 29 -- however, we ran a story with substantially the same information, based on an eyewitness report and interview with the watch commander at Altadena station, that placed the incident Thursday afternoon. Our story ran at 10:37 AM Friday -- about four and a half hours before the press release says the incident began, at about 3 PM Friday.
According to the press release, deputies from Altadena along with FBI personnel served a search warrant at the 200 block of West Harriet Street. According to the release,
Numerous people were detained and the primary suspect was arrested for weapons violations. Inside the home evidence of narcotics use was found and the house was described as in complete disarray. Deputies described the residence as having trash piled inside and outside and cabinets and most of the interior doors were kicked in or broken.
Local residents said the home has been an issue for the neighborhood for quite some time with foot and vehicle traffic and people hanging out in the front. Detectives commented the home was obviously an issue “in an otherwise mostly pristine neighborhood. ”
According to the release, the operation was not only about crime reduction, but "working together with area residents as well as other agencies in order to improve quality of life in neighborhoods such as this one."
The detective named in the press release was not at work when we called to ask what day the operation occurred.
Posted on Saturday, March 30, 2013 at 04:40 PM in Crime | Permalink | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0)
Our column is up at the Pasadena Sun: the trail to Eaton Canyon's second waterfall claims another victim -- what can we do?Posted on Saturday, March 30, 2013 at 08:33 AM in Altadena Junction | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0)
Two animals, one lost, one found:
Lost: Frida, a hairless black chihuahua with white hair on her head, wearing a pink harness, who escaped from her home at Hill and Howard, later spotted at at Los Robles and Penn, so she gets around. Lost Friday afternoon. Call Craig at 626-864-2983.
Found: A first for the Lost Pets section: Kathy found a turtle at Allen Ave. and La Paz (pictured). Our guess is it lives nearby! Contact Kathy 626-482-4070.
Posted on Saturday, March 30, 2013 at 08:07 AM in Pets Lost and Found | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0)
As a part of its Centennial Year Celebration, the First Presbyterian Church, Altadena presents “One Way or Another,” an in-worship drama about two former Pasadena City College baseball players, Shig Takayama and Jackie Robinson, as they pushed up against the stubborn “whites only” barriers of the 1930s.
This short play highlights the friendship of these two young men, one Japanese-American and the other African- American, who grew up in same Pasadena neighborhood. The play offers insights into the motivations which might have supported their perseverance in standing up to the racial discrimination they faced as collegiate baseball players.
The drama draws upon each of their affiliation with a local church - Jackie with Scott United Methodist Church, and Shig with the Japanese Union Church, now the First Presbyterian Church, Altadena. Based both on written history and on the “living history” provided by the testimonies of those who knew Shig and Jackie, the play witnesses to how faith and spiritual strength influenced these two young men, both on and off the athletic field.
The play will be performed at the First Presbyterian Church, Altadena on Sunday, April 14 at the 10:30 AM. worship service. The address is: 2775 Lincoln Avenue, Altadena 91001. The congregation celebrates the lives of Shig Takayama and Jackie Robinson as each in their own way, overcame the barriers which attempted to hold them back.
All in attendance are invited to join the congregation for a Ballpark Franks picnic on the church patio and lawn after worship service.
Posted on Saturday, March 30, 2013 at 03:35 AM in Faith | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
by Timothy Rutt
Altadena deputies made an arrest during a warrant search on the 200 block of West Harriet StreetThursday afternoon.
According to Sgt. Brian Mann of the Altadena Sheriff station, officers were serving a search warrant at the address when they arrested the suspect on charges related to being a person with a prior conviction possessing ammunition.
A witness emailed Altadenablog, reporting that multiple sheriff units and the helicopter were involved in the incident near the corner of Harriet Street and Glen Avenue, and that two flash/bang grenades were heard. No further information is currently available.
Posted on Friday, March 29, 2013 at 10:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
by TImothy Rutt
Good Friday today, and Easter on Sunday. In between, lots going on in Altadena. Keep checking back as new stuff keeps coming in. But first, some words from our sponsors:
Webster's Community Pharmacy: March 29-30, Easter “Egg-Stravaganza”: Customers who spend $25 or more in our Gift Boutique will be eligible to pick out a special Easter Egg filled with an instant savings between 10%-50% off their purchase. All customers can enter our egg-clusive Easter Basket drawing filled with egg-citing goodies from our Gift Boutique. Tasty bunny sized bites will be available for all to enjoy while they shop. And many more surprises will be had! 2450 N. Lake Avenue.
Webster's Fine Stationers: Hosting the "Authors Tours USA" launch and inaugural booksigning on Saturday, March 30, featuring four local writers: Adrianne Hall, Koji Steven Sakai, Christina Hamlett, and Ellen Snortland. 3-5 PM at 2453 N. Lake Avenue.
Altadena Ale & Wine House: The Homebrew Tasting event returns on Easter Sunday, 3-5 PM. Please bring your homebrews to share with other brewers or beer enthusiasts! 2329 N. Fair Oaks Avenue.
Other things going on:
Saturday
Primavera in Altadena V: The annual potluck picnic for the bloggers of the San Gabriel Valley and their fans, starting at 11 AM at the Mt. Curve Pavilion in Farnsworth Park.
Library artist closing reception: Closing reception for the Library's March artist, Henia Flynn, 7-9 PM at the Altadena Main Library Community Room, 600 E. Mariposa St.
Out-of-town openings: local favorites Kate Carvellas and David Lovejoy are showing at "Refuse to Destroy: Artwork Made from Found Materials" at the Cella Gallery, 11135 Weddington St., Suite #112, North Hollywood, opening reception Saturday, 7-11 PM. And Alta-photog Jane Szabo will be showing at the Los Angeles Art Association/Gallery 825, with an opening reception Saturday from 6-9 PM, 825 N. La Cienega.
Sunday
Sunrise service at Farnsworth Park: Community Easter service at Farnsworth Park, 6 AM. The Easter message of victory will be proclaimed by Dr. Joy J. Moore. Dr. Moore serves as associate dean of African American Church Studies and assistant professor of Preaching at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, CA. Pastor Carlton Edwards of Pasadena Community Christian Fellowship will serve as the Master of Ceremony. This annual event is being planned and organized by the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance of Greater Pasadena/Altadena.
Posted on Friday, March 29, 2013 at 09:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
by Timothy Rutt
Pasadena Magazine always tries to make a splash with its special issues, and the March/April issue, "luxe living," is no exception. They're holding a celebration for the release of this issue at something they call "A Fète at the Farmer's Market," to be held at the Altadena Farmers Market on April 10 from 5-7 PM.
According to a release:
Guests will be treated to cooking demonstrations from the expert chefs of La Grande Orange Café, and learn how to create signature cocktails from the skillful mixologists of 1886 Bar at The Raymond. This event will also feature jam-making and coffee-roasting demos from the Domestic Institute of Technology [sic: should be Institute of Domestic Technology], live music, raffles, and more! To attend, RSVP at rsvp@pasadenarose.com.
It sounds like quite the event (and "luxe living" may not be the best move for a market that's trying to shake off a reputation as catering to the well-off), but it does mean that market manager Joseph Shuldiner -- who is also involved in the revamping of LA's Central Market -- is a force to be reckoned with.
The Altadena Farmers' Market is held Wednesdays from 4-7 PM at Loma Alta Park.
Posted on Friday, March 29, 2013 at 09:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
by Timothy Rutt
Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are still available for the annual fundraising benefit dinner for Mentoring & Partnership for Youth Development (MPYD), to be held April 13 at Brookside Golf Course in Pasadena.
This year's keynote speaker will be Judge Victor Wright of the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Master of ceremonies will be Cameron Turner.
This year's honorees are: The Vons/Safeway Foundation (Cardinal Paint Award); Helen Goodman (Volunteer Award); San Gabriel Valley National Council of Negro Women (Community Partner Award); Prof. Beverly Tate (Angel Award); and John Muir High School alum Miguel Reyes (Academic for Success Award).
Tickets are $100 each. To pay online, visit www.mpyd.org/donate.html, or call 626-396-5600 x82009 for tickets, sponsorship, or more information.
Posted on Friday, March 29, 2013 at 09:02 AM in Good Works | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
by Chris Considine
Well, at least those trying to CATCH characters with "Criminal Minds." In the late afternoon Thursday, Mendocino from Allen to Lake was the scene of "Criminal Minds" camera car and stars with a hefty escort of four sheriff’s cruisers. With the sheriffs leading the way and bringing up the rear, these camera scenes inside the typical black SUV of a law enforcement agency have been going back and forth filming a new episode. Inside the car are the stars Mathew Gubler and Jeanne Tripplehorn from the current series season. The "parade" did head down Allen and past Washington and then turned in an unknown direction.
Posted on Friday, March 29, 2013 at 07:28 AM in HollywooDena | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Scenes from the cleanup of Old Marengo Park on March 24: Master gardener Nancy Romero pitches in; Altadena Heritage members filled seven barrels with waste during the cleanup; Altadena Heritage board member (and Citizen of the Year) Michele Zack, who wrote the first grant to launch the park and remains involved in its maintenance; and Mark Goldschmidt, David Mosher, and John Zoraster do final tidy up.
by Timothy Rutt
Old Marengo Park, a pocket park at Woodbury Road and Marengo Avenue, used to be an undeveloped triangle of wasteland left over when Marengo was straightened out in the 1960's. Two years ago, thanks to concerned residents and community groups, it was turned into a native plant demonstration garden where it's been a highlight of a frequently-overlooked neighborhood along the Pasadena/Altadena border.
Last Saturday, March 24, Altadena Heritage board members Mark Goldschmidt, David Mosher, Nancy Romero, Michele Zack and John Zoraster gave the park a spring facelift, removing weeds and an outbreak of prickly Russian Thistles. They also spread mulch for weed control and to retain moisture.
Currently the park features blooming Redbud trees and a bloom of native California poppies. Zack emailed us:
The new adjacent Woodbury Median Project uses a similar tree palette of California Oaks and Redbuds, as well as native grasses. When you drive by this part of Woodbury Road, the park anchors the median, and intensifies the effect of all the new planting on Woodbury.
Old Marengo Park was developed as a joint project of the Altadena Watershed Committee, the Arroyos and Foothills Conservancy, and Altadena Heritage. Although now unirrigated, the park provides a beautiful and colorful shady refuge, as well as a habitat for birds and insects. Altadena Heritage takes care of regular park maintenance, and last summer Heritage and Arroyos and Foothills shared the expense of giving the trees, planted over three years ago, their first trimming to open up the park and reveal the beautiful forms of its many trees. Anyone interested in joining our Park Maintenance Team, please contact us at altadenaheritage@earthlink.net.
Posted on Thursday, March 28, 2013 at 09:56 AM in Great Outdoors, Growing Things | Permalink | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0)
The petty thieves were restless this week: a good reminder to keep valuables out of the open and keep your car locked. Crime blotter provided by the Altadena Sheriff''s Station.
Saturday, March 16
Between 7:35 PM and 10:00 AM (Sunday) – A vandalism occurred in the 2000 block of Lake Avenue. Damage: utility phone box.
Sunday, March 17
Between 1:30 AM and 9:30 AM – A petty theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred in the 1900 block of Pepper Drive. Loss: Blackberry cell phone.
Between 2:00 PM and 10:30 AM (Wednesday) – A residential burglary occurred in the 600 block of Concha Street. Loss: none.
Monday, March 18
Between 9:00 AM and 2:30 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 2300 block of Glenrose Avenue. ***Suspect is known***
5:31 PM – A motorcycle was reported stolen from the 1300 block of N. Roosevelt Avenue. ***MC was parked in an open garage***
Tuesday, March 19
8:50 AM – A vehicle was reported stolen from the 2500 block of La Fiesta Avenue. ***Vehicle was parked in the driveway***
Wednesday, March 20
9:55 AM – A misdemeanor assault occurred in the 600 block of East Las Flores Drive. ***Neighbor dispute***
Between 7:10 AM and 3:55 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 2200 block of Navarro Avenue. Loss: currency.
6:30 PM – A U-Haul trailer was reported stolen from 2320 N. Lincoln Avenue. ***Trailer was recovered the at the U-Haul***
Thursday, March 21
Between 8:40 AM and 11:30 AM – A petty theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred at Eaton Canyon Golf Course, 1150 Sierra Madre Villa Avenue. Loss: driver’s license, credit cards, currency.
Between 8:00 PM and 7:15 AM (Friday) – A petty theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred in the 1600 block of E. Loma Alta Drive. Loss: black Garmin GPS, gray utility knife.
Continue reading "Crime blotter: harvesting from unlocked cars" »
Posted on Thursday, March 28, 2013 at 09:15 AM in Crime, Crime Log | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Posted on Thursday, March 28, 2013 at 09:04 AM in Pets Lost and Found | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
by Laura B. Monteros
Altadena traffic
Barbe listed 14 locations throughout Altadena where residents had reported issues with speeding cars, and “calming” measures taken such as speed humps and radar signs that flash a car’s speed. Illegal parking and other unsafe traffic conditions were discussed, such as drivers failing to stop at the sign at Wapello and Marengo. These concerns are forwarded to the CHP.
Officer Tom Miller of the CHP said that they are working to address the issues, but an officer must see it before they can ticket, even if a resident gets the license plate number. He has sat at the Marengo/Wapello intersection but have not caught anyone breaking the law. He does invite those who file complaints to ride along with him.
Parking is handled by the Sheriff’s Station, but Altadena has only one parking control officer.
Continue reading "ACONA speakers take it to the streets and neighborhoods" »
Posted on Thursday, March 28, 2013 at 08:12 AM in ACONA, Crime | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)


