altadenablog

Update: two booked in Wednesday's neighborhood lockdown

by Timothy Rutt

Eddie Vasquez, 32, and Nancy Carillo, 22, both of Altadena, were arrested Wednesday afternoon.

More details have come to light in the auto theft/burglary that locked down a west side neighborhood Wednesday afternoon.

 

Eddie Vasquez, 32, and Nancy Carillo, 22, both of Altadena, were taken into custody by deputies with the help of  a K9 unit.  Vasquez was arrested for grand theft auto and possession of stolen property, while Carillo was arrested for possession of methamphetimine.

According to a press release from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, deputies attempted to stop a suspicious vehicle on the 400 block of west Mendocino Street.  The vehicle, a 2006 Toyota Camry, had been reported stolen from Pasadena.

Vasquez ran out of the vehicle northbound through yards and out of sight, while Carillo was left behind in the car, the release says.  She was taken into custody while a permeter was set using sheriffs deputies from Altadena and surrounding stations, as well as a helicopter and K9 units.

According to the sheriff's department, Vasquez was found hiding under a house in the neighborhood. The department says that "the stolen car was loaded with numerous items that appeared to be stolen."

Vasquez is being held in lieu of $35,000 bail.  Carillo is being held in lieu of $10,000 bail.  Both are scheduled to appear in Pasadena Superior Court today.

Conservancy to lead Millard Canyon hikes next two Saturdays

by Timothy Rutt

The Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy is in the last stages of fundraising to purchase lower Millard Canyon, and to show why it's worth preserving, they're leading hikes over the next two Saturdays.

The hikes, on Sat., Nov. 17 and Sat., Nov. 24, start at 9 AM.  Meet at the Millard campground parking lot -- drive north on Fair Oaks, left on West Loma Alta Drive, and turn right at Chaney Trail.  Follow Chaney Trail all the way over the top and down again to the parking lot. As an added incentive, there will be pastries by Euro Pane provided.

Wear hiking boots, long-sleeved shirt and pants, and bring water.  Dogs aren't allowed.  The route is less than a mile and a half, but somewhat rugged with some boulder hopping. There are patches of poison oak. There may be rattlesnakes.

The Conservancy says that :"If we can match a $20,000 commitment by the current landowner by the end of November, our $675,000 goal will be accomplished."  To donate to save MIllard Canyon, click here.

 

Magical Altadena weekend coming up

Some things to look forward to this weekend:

• The Pasadena Waldorf School will hold its annual Elves' Faire on Sat., Nov. 17, from 10 AM-4 PM.  The magical festival for all ages opens up the holiday season in Altadena with food, entertainment, children's activities, and all-around fun.  209 E. Mariposa St., Altadena.
• Webster's Community Pharmacy and Webster's Liquors will hold their annual Holiday Open House on Sat., Nov. 17:  save 20% on selected items, enjoy baked goods, savory bites, and eggnog.  Webster's Community Pharmacy is also the exclusive Altadena Toys for Tots dropoff location.  Please help fill up our box with an unwrapped toy. 2450 N. Lake Avenue, 2-7 PM.
• The Coffee Gallery Backstage presents actress Julie Adams in an interview about her career, including earning pop-culture legend status from "The Creature from the Black Lagoon."  3 PM Saturday at 2029 N. Lake Ave. 
• The Christmas Tree Lane Association will sponsor a "how-to" class on low-water-use planting and irrigation on Sat., Nov. 17, starting at 2 PM. Andrea Hessing of Scrubjay Studios will offer instruction, which particularly emphasizes plant selection for use around mature deodar and oak trees, such as a prevalent along Christmas Tree Lane.. It is open to the rest of the community as well as Lane residents.  Please bring gardening gloves, as it will be hands-on.  The workshop will be held at 2077 Santa Rosa Ave.
• On Sunday, St. Elizabeth's Parish School will hold its second annual "Market" this Sunday, Nov. 18, from 9 AM-2 PM. 
• ACTS (Altadena Congregations Together Serving) will hold an ecumenical service of Thanksgiving on Sun., Nov. 18, from 7-8 PM at the Altadena Baptist Church, 791 E. Calavaras St.

Win a turkey at the Farnsworth Park turkey shoot Nov. 20

by Timothy Rutt

Kids can get an early start on Thanksgiving at Farnsworth Park's turkey shoot on Tues., Nov. 20.

There will be arts and crafts, games, a free goody bag, and a chance to win a free turkey (they're a little vague on what the "turkey shoot" will be, but we doubt it's a real turkey, or real shooting!)  It all starts at 4 PM at Farnsworth Park.

Artisan boutique at Pasadena Jewish Temple Sunday

The Pasadena Jewish Temple,and Center,  1434 N. Altadena Drive, will feature over two dozen local artisans and artists in its Artisan Boutique on Sun., Dec. 18.

Come "shop and schmooze" from 10 AM-4 PM to look over their stock of unique, handmade items, from fine art to clothing and items for Jewish occasions (challa covers, talitot, and kippot, among other items).

Proceeds benefit the Sisterhood of PJTC.

 

Breaking: night rescue underway

by Timothy Rutt

As of about 7 PM: the Altadena Sheriff's Station reports that an LA County Fire helicopter is causing that noise on the east side.   Per scanner, they've plucked four people off the hillside and will take them to Farnsworth Park.

UPDATE:  The Altadena Sheriff Station issued this press release tonight:

On November 15, 2012, the Altadena Search and Rescue Team were called out to 2200 Pinecrest Drive, Altadena in Eaton Canyon regarding four adults who were lost on the trail. Los Angeles County Fire Engine #66 with Captain Gonzalez were assisted by the Altadena Search and Rescue Team who located the hikers and escorted them out of the canyon safely and uninjured. 

Sheriff's Search and Rescue Team personnel are reserve sheriff’s deputies who volunteer their time to help others for $1 a year, and who partner with sheriff’s civilian volunteers who volunteer for free. There are over 150 members of the eight Search and Rescue teams of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, who were activated for over 450 search and rescue missions last year, making it one of the most active counties for search and rescue missions in the nation. Reserve deputies and civilian volunteers are supervised by full-time sheriff’s deputies. http://lasdreserve.org/

 

Accident at 1700 block of Altadena Drive [Updated]

 

by Timothy Rutt

The 1700 block of Altadena Drive was blocked this afternoon by a rolled over vehicle.  Does not appear to have any injuries at this time, but we will follow up.

UPDATE:  Community correspondant Dan Westphal tells us he talked to witnesses, who told him that the van clipped the left rear of a parked pickup truck (seen on the right).  The minivan flipped over, while the truck moved about 100 feet from the impact.  "The woman driver was the only person involved and was transported via ambulance with good vital signs and apparently conscious."  A CHP officer on the scene told us that high speeds were likely involved in the accident.

 

Historical Society celebrates Scripps Home, seeks donations to finish archiving

 

 

The Altadena Historical Society held a tea Sunday to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Scripps Home. From left: Mary Lou Langedyke, Marlane Forsberg, Jane Brackman, Tim Gregory, Mary Smeritschnig and Kathy Hoskins.

 

 

by Jane Brackman, President
Altadena Historical Society

The Altadena Historical Society hosted a nice tea last Sunday,  Nov. 11, to commemorate the100th anniversary of the founding of the Scripps Home. Unfortunately the home didn’t live long enough to join the celebration.

Our guests included donors who’ve made contributions to the Scripps archive fund. 

Last year Episcopal Homes Communities/MonteCedro, which purchased and tore down the buildings, returned the collection of memorabilia to Historical Society.   We’re using the $3500 we’ve received thus far to pay for the professional archiving of the collection.   We need another $500 to reach our goal.  Anyone wanting more information can call us at 626-797- 8016 or emai laltadenahistorical.society@yahoo.com

MonteCedro spreads holiday cheer to local business patrons

 

At Webster's Community Pharmacy, Lois Bascom, left, was surprised by Jenny Buchanan, the MonteCedro "Good Deeds Gal," who will be making unexpected appearances in the area for the next few weeks.

 

by TImothy Rutt

MonteCedro, the planned Altadena retirement community, will be spreading some holiday cheer from now until Dec. 5.

The MonteCedro "Good Deeds Gal" will be visiting local businesses and picking up the tab for random customers.  The push started yesterday, with "Good Deeds Gal" Jenny Buchanan surprising patrons at such places as Super King grocers and Fox's Restaurant with gift certificates.

Lois Bascom, a teacher at St. Mark's School, was surprised Wednesday at Webster's Community Pharmacy with a gift certificate.

The "Good Deeds Gal" will show up at various locations once a week until Dec. 5.   MonteCedro will also be making a $1,000 donation to a local non-profit organization.

 

 

 

Xiem Clay Center features Altadena artists in "Fallidays" this weekend

from Heather Morrow

Xiem Clay Center of Pasadena is hosting the 2012 Fallidays Ceramic Art Fair & Open Studio Sale, November 16 & 17.

The show is Friday, 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm. and Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Altadena Ceramic Artists: Heather Morrow, Tom Glavich, Sharon Garrett, and Daarina Abdus-Samad are among 40 artists participating in the annual event. At this show you will find one-of-a-kind, handcrafted items for purchase by the participating artists representing all of Southern California (you can’t get more American Made, than this).

In addition, on Saturday, there will be demonstrations their artistry and craft.

Public awareness of the local crafts scene helps sustain jobs for artists and their businesses. There is a local return on that investment: in many towns, the arts help promote economic development and tourism. Xiem Clay Center is located on the West side of Lake Ave, just before Washington Blvd. 1563 N. Lake Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91104, (626) 794-5833, www.xiemclaycenter.com. For more information about the Xiem Clay Center Fallidays Ceramic Art Fair & Open Studio Sale, please contact Heather Morrow at (818) 257-0338.

Weather: chance of rain this weekend

by Jason Wells
Pasadena Sun

A weather system blowing into the region today will bring with it a chance of rain and cooler temperatures through the weekend, forecasters say.

As the cloud cover builds, expect a 20% chance of rain in the Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena region Thursday night, according to the National Weather Service.

The threat of rain will increase heading into the weekend, with a 50% chance of precipitation on Saturday before starting to taper off Sunday into next week.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

Missing dog: Pee Wee

"Pee Wee," a golden tan Chihuahua with a white chest, went missing from his home at Sacramento St. and Santa Rosa.

Owner Marcos says that he went hissing the morning of Nov. 5, apparently escaping from his collar and tie by his dog house.

If you have any information, email melgarmarcos4@gmail.com or call 626-485-7017

 

Police activity on west side Wednesday afternoon [UPDATED]

 

Police dogs were used to find a suspect after deputies put an Altadena neighborhood under containment Wednesday afternoon.

 

 

by Timothy Rutt

Altadena sheriff deputies set up a containment to catch a suspect on the west side of town, south of Altadena Drive to Devirian and from about LIncoln to Olive.

According to scanner traffic, officers were looking for a suspect, and had deployed the helicopter and dogs to flush him out.  Shortly after a call came in for an ambulance to treat a dog bite, the containment was broken down.

We're trying to contact Altadena Sheriff station for details. but keep getting bounced to unanswered phones.  We'll keep trying.

UPDATE: Crescenta Valley Station reports that the suspect was involved in a combination of stolen vehicle and burglary, and was identified by a deputy on patrol rather than a call to the station.  The suspect was subdued by a police dog, and is currently (5 PM) at the hospital being treated for injuries.  He has not yet been taken to the Crescenta Valley Station jail nor booked.

UPDATE II: Altadena Sheriff Capt. John Benedict tweeted: #Altadena burglary suspect arrested in stolen car by deputies. K-9 unit found suspect hiding after being contained by deputies.

Sheriff warns to look out for catalytic converter thefts

from the Altadena Sheriff's Station

The Altadena Sheriff's Station has been investigating a series of catalytic converter thefts from parked vehicles. Thieves target an automobile’s catalytic converter for resale as a used part to disreputable repair shops or for the scrap value of the precious metals contained inside. Toyota and Mitsubishi vehicles are frequently targeted. 

A catalytic converter is an emission control device that is located under the vehicle within the exhaust system. Some vehicles have more than one converter depending upon the model. The cost to replace a single catalytic converter can easily exceed $1,000. 

Thieves generally target converters at night and use simple hand tools to remove the bolts and nuts that secure the device to the vehicle. The Simi Valley Police Department is recommending that vehicle owners consult with a trusted repair shop and request that the bolts and nuts securing the catalytic converter to the exhaust system be “tac welded” together to prevent their removal with simple hand tools. Removal of the converter will still be possible by using tools that generally create a significant amount of noise, something a thief will not be able to do in the middle of the night without drawing unwanted attention to their crime. 

Partner to prevent or report crime by contacting the Altadena Sheriff’s Station at 626-798-1131. Or if you wish to remain Anonymous, call “LA Crime Stoppers” by dialing 800-222-TIPS (8477), texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org 

Caltech/Oxy bands go from Bach to the Beatles in free concert Friday

The Caltech-Occidental Concert Band is having a free concert this Friday, Nov. 16, covering everybody from Back to the Beatles.

The concert starts at 8 PM at Ramos Auditorium on the Caltech campus.

Featured performance is the music of the Beatels in a special arrangement originally commissioned by Cirque du Soleil.  Other composers featured will be J.S. Back, Ralph Vaugh Williams, Ron Nelson, and Daniel French.  French will also guest conduct, along with Paul Asimow and Jeffrey Thompson.

Special guest soloist is Caltech alumnus Aaron Eichelberger, who will perform "Rhapsody for Euphonium" by James Curnow.

Admission to the concert is free.

 

St. Mark's Church and School holds Winterfest Dec. 1

St. Mark's Church and School, 1050 E. Altadena Drive, is holding its first "Winterfest" on Sat., Dec. 1, from noon to 4 PM.

Events include holiday treats, a boutique, candy shop, and crafts, as well as a bounce house, game booths, food trucks, and a sledding run with real snow.

Admission is free.

 

CAC/SELPA monthly meeting Nov. 19

 

Pasadena Unified School District's SELPA Community Advisory Committee will have its month meeting on Mon., Nov. 19, starting at 6:30 PM at the Edison Professional Development Center, 119 W. Palm St.

This month's topic is "Let's Discuss the Local Plan," which directs local policies procedures and programs for special education.

Free childcare and translation is available.

 

Fire at Altadena Drive and Porter Avenue [UPDATED]

Firefighters working on the roof of a home on fire at Porter Avenue and Altadena Drive on Tuesday night

by Timothy Rutt

Multiple firefighting vehicles were called to a housefire on the southeast corner of Altadena Drive and Porter Avenue Tuesday night.

The call came in before 8 PM according to scanner traffic.  Early scanner reports said a person was trapped inside the house.

The fire was quickly knocked down, and a woman was being observed by ambulance crews, although she was not being taken away to the hospital.

UPDATE 11/14: A county fire spokesman said that the cause of the fire was a hot plate or other cooking device in an upstairs bedroom.  A victim was rescued by ladder from the bedroom but refused medical attention.  She was given a room for the night by the Red Cross. The spokesman, who declined to be identified, said a strong attack by firefighters prevented the fire from moving downstairs.  The structure suffered an estimated $80,000 worth of damage and $8,000 loss of interior furnishings.

 

 

 

Breaking: horse rescue now going on at Brown Mountain

by Timothy Rutt

The Altadena Sheriff Station has has just sent out an advisory (@ 4:40 PM) that the Altadena Search and Rescue Team are attempting a helicopter rescue of an injured horse.

According to the advisory, the horse and rider fell while on the" unpaved Brown Mountainway and El Prieto Mountainway. The rider is uninjured. 

A helicopter rescue was initially tried and rescuers did not have much luck so they tried a heavy rescue. However, since the location is so high up on the mountain it was difficult for the rescue vehicles to access the area so a helicopter rescue is being attempted again.

Morning jolt: creatures and features

•  Philandria Brown of Two Dragons Martial Arts Studio in Altadena says they are offering free martial arts classes to the community this coming Saturday, Nov. 17, and Sat., Dec. 15, from 9 AM-1 PM both days.  
• Home refinancing and sales are being held up by low appraisals, says Michelle Hoffman in the LA Times (heck, WE found that out!).  Hoffman talks to an Altadena couple about their tale of woe.
• A couple of interesting things coming up at the Coffee Gallery Backstage this week: actress Julie Adams will be appearing in a look at her long career with author David Schecter on Sat., Nov. 17, at 3 PM, and following will autograph copies of her autobiography.  Desipite a career that included leading men like John Wayne, Elvis Presley, Jimmy Stewart, Rock Hudson and Tyrone Power, she may be best known to pop culture as the romantic lead with the Creature of the Black Lagoon (pictured). 
  
  And  Alex Finazzo wants us to know that he's the opening act for the Salty Suites, appearing at the Backstage tomorrow. His website is  www.sixstringpicker.com and Facebook at facebook.com/sixstringpicker . 

St. Elizabeth School's Market to be held Sunday

St. Elizabeth's Parish School will hold its second annual Market at St. Elizabeth this Sunday, Nov. 18, from 9 AM-2 PM:

Food, Fellowship, and Fun is in store at the 2nd Annual Market at St. Elizabeth. Finish (or start) your holiday shopping with dozens of different handmade crafts. Both young and young at heart will enjoy the art and crafts booths, obstacle course, rock wall, and small petting zoo. Create ornaments, tye dye shirts, and give thanks with our blessing trees. You can even order trees for Christmas. Refuel with hamburgers, hotdogs, caramel apples, kettle corn, and other tasty treats. Don't forget about our great raffle prizes. Come one, Come all and join us for a great day!

The Market takes place at St. Elizabeth Parish School, 1840 North Lake Ave.

Altadena Trails looks at Brown Mountain Fire Road maintenance

The Altadena Crest Trail Restoration Working Group (ACTRWG) will meet tonight, Tues., Nov. 13, at 7 PM at the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Dr.

According to meetings chair Robert Staehle, Brown Mountain is the main topic:

The lack of maintenance for the Brown Mt. Fire Rd (from Millard Cyn Campground parking lot west to the top of Rising Hill Rd), which provides access for emergency fire trucks and crews as well as evacuation routes for local residents, is on the agenda for this meeting. This is an important issue not only for trail use, but because the unpaved Brown Mt. Rd provides a critical fire line between the Angeles Forest and hillside homes. In recent years, that road was passable by passenger car and County Fire Dept. vehicles; however, it is gradually approaching impassable due to rock fall, shrubs, saplings and weeds now that neither the USFS or L.A. County takes responsibility for its maintenance.

Your participation and views are important. All are welcome!

Webster's Pharmacy and Liquors hold holiday open house this Sat.

On Sat., Nov. 17 Webster’s Community Pharmacy (Altadenablog sponsor) along with Webster’s Liquors will be celebrating the holidays with their annual Holiday Open House.

• Shop with Webster's Community Pharmacy and Webster's Liquors during our Holiday Open House to save 20% on selected items. 
• Enjoy baked goods, savory bites, and Webster’s Liquors' specialty eggnog as you stroll through the aisles.
• Webster's Community Pharmacy is the exclusive Altadena Toys For Tots drop-off location. Please help us fill-up our box with an unwrapped toy!

Altadenans shine at Hurricane Sandy fundraiser Sunday

Leslie Perry will host a fundraiser for victims of Hurricane Sandy on Sunday afternoon at the Church of Truth, 690 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena.

Besides Perry, performer include such other Altadena fixtures as Julie Sandoval and Robert S. Hilton.

The fundraiser starts at 2 PM Sun., Nov. 18, and donations are requested.  All donations will benefit the Red Cross.

 

Soroptimist Silent Auction at Senior Center Dec. 2

Soroptimist International of Altadena/Pasadena will hold their annual Silent Auction on Sunday, December 2nd from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Altadena Senior Center, 560 E. Mariposa Street, Altadena, CA  91001.

This free event will feature refreshments, music, and the opportunity to bid on a host of exciting items, many of which would make great holiday gifts.  Proceeds benefit needy women and girls in our area through college scholarships and through grants to local nonprofit agencies.   

 

Veteran's Day Holiday

Sunday, Nov. 11, was Veteran's Day, and today (Monday) is the holiday where banks are closed and there is no mail -- we commemorate our vets today, too.

"People sleep peacefully in their beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf."

Yes they do, and thank you for it. Thank you to all who have served. 

A history of the above quote is here (neither Kipling nor Orwell!)

Dr. Barkman has a history of dogs and the military in her blog here.

 

Poetry corner: for Veterans Day

" A Veterans Day Wish"

from gloriana casey

So long ago---1918---
The GREAT WAR's victory.
Eleventh hour of the day
eleventh month, you see.

And Woodrow Wilson started this,
a day called Armistice;
remembrance of the war lost dead,
with hopes that Peace persists.

In 1919 came the plan
for business then to cease.
Two minute mark --- 11 a.m.
to think on worldly peace.

Then 1921 ---this date,
 a monumental plan,
the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier,
to serve for all the land.

Windstorm tax relief deadline approaches

by Joe Piasecki
Pasadena Sun

Owners of homes and businesses that sustained damage during windstorms that ripped through San Gabriel Valley and foothill neighborhoods last year have until the end of November to apply for property tax relief.

The Los Angeles County Assessor’s Office is accepting tax-relief petitions related to wind damage until Nov. 30.

Property owners can obtain damage/calamity claim forms through the agency’s website. Returned forms should include photographs and other documentation of wind damage.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

ACTS to hold ecumenical Thanksgiving service Nov. 18

by Timothy Rutt

ACTS (Altadena Congregations Together Service) will hold an ecumenical service of Thanksgiving on Sun., Nov. 18, from 7-8 PM at the Altadena Baptist Church, 791 E. Calavaras St.

Dorothy Nelson, senior judge of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals and Chair and founder of the Western Justice Center Foundation will be the guest speaker.

Clergy and congregations from Altadena area religious organizations will participate in the service, which is free to the public.  There will be a voluntary offering of money or canned goods which will benefit the Altadena Food Pantry.

 

Altadena musican Tsan to premiere "Trio" based on her life

Altadena cellist commissioned piece based on her dramatic life story

by Timothy Rutt

 

The Pantoum Trio: Cécilia Tsan, left, Tereza Stanislav, and Steven Vanhauwaert.

Next Saturday, Nov. 17, the Pantoum Trio will perform the American premiere of "Trio" by Eric Tanguy, the most frequently performed living French composer, in a Santa Monica concert. 

 

The piece will have a special meaning for Pantoum Trio cellist Cécilia Tsan: Tanguy's inspiration to write the piece was Tsan's family story.

Altadena resident Tsan, who is also principal cellist of the Long Beach Symphony Orchestra, has a dramatic story to tell.  Her parents, both from Shanghai, were musicians who fled Communist China for Europe, where they had been educated.  They were married at the Vatican, and settled in France. Tsan was born in Versailles.

A composer, Tsan says her father was writing a major ballet for a patron when he was killed in an apparent accident.  She was only 40 days old at the time.  With her sister and her mother, they lived in a convent in France for several years while her mother held a variety of different jobs. 

Library's Fun Flick Friday: "Brave," Nov. 16

The Altadena Main Library's Friday Fun Flick this month is the new Disney/Pixar film, "Brave."

Determined to carve her own path in life, the skilled archer Princess Merida defies an age-old custom sacred to the unruly and uproarious lords of the land. The ensuing peril forces Merida to harness all of her skills and resources to undo a beastly curse before it’s too late, discovering the meaning of true bravery. Rated PG, 100 minutes.

Admission is free -- popcorn and drinks available.

"Brave" will be at the Altadena Main Library Community Room, 600 E. Mariposa St. , at 3:30 PM Friday, Nov. 16.  

 

James Griffith's "Natural Selection" at Offramp Gallery Nov. 18-Dec. 23

Altadena artist James Griffith will have a show at the Offramp Gallery at 1702 Lincoln Ave. in Pasadena from Nov. 18-Dec. 23.

"Natural Selection" features Griffith's small tar paintings.  

In 2011, Griffith told Altadenablog that his latest series "extends my interest ... in the impact on nature by man's use of petrochemicals.  In my new work, rather than depicting nature through a veil of plastic,  I am using tar as a paint itself and painting elements of nature with it."

Griffith and his wife Susanna Dadd also host the Folly Bowl series of concerts at their Altadena home.

Opening reception is Sun., Nov. 18, with a closing reception on Dec. 23.

 

Library events celebrate new "Wimpy Kid" book

The Altadena Main Library and Bob Lucas Branch Library celebrate Wimpy Kids with some special activities this week:

Tues., Nov. 13: Diary of a Wimpy Kid Book Party: The Altadena Library invites kids ages 9-12 to come to the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. at 4:30 PM for some Wimpy Kid fun! Join us for snacks, and activities based on Jeff Kinney’s popular Diary of a Wimpy Kid series. We’ll be raffling off a couple of copies of the 7th book The Third Wheel! 

Wed., Nov. 14: Decorate Your Own Wimpy Kid Diary Celebrate the release of the latest book in the Wimpy Kid series by creating your own Wimpy Kid Diary. All supplies will be provided. Bob Lucas Branch Library, 2659 N. Lincoln Ave. , starting at 3:30 PM.

Altadena resident's Pasadena home has sordid history

By Joe Piasecki

Pasadena Sun

Two men are dead, one may face the death penalty, and the home allegedly set ablaze in a fatal Nov. 1 incident has been described by one city official as a longtime “problem property.”

On Tuesday, a team of officials with various city departments inspected the home at 1385 El Sereno Ave. and others under the same ownership, city spokesman William Boyer said. The duplex, where 20 men were renting partitioned rooms at the time of the fire, remains under investigation as a possibly illegal boarding house.

Also on Tuesday, the El Sereno tenant accused of intentionally setting the fire, Garth Allen Robbins, 49, pleaded not guilty to 19 criminal charges, including two counts of capital murder, 15 counts of attempted murder and two counts of arson.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

Autumn, at last

Deb Halberstadt contributed this picture from Friday: after a week that included 90 degree weather, a cooling trend set in and we're seeing some snow in the mountains.  Weather will be cooler this weekend in Altadena with highs in the 60's, but temperatures are to reach the 80's again by Tuesday.

It's that time again: Waldorf School Elves' Faire Nov. 17

Scenes from the Waldorf School Elves' Faire over the years, clockwise from left: Baba the Storyteller; Father Winter, who always puts in an appearance; the manly art of cudgel fighting; and many musical performers mark the Elves' Faire.

by Timothy Rutt

 

One of the sure first signs of the holiday season in Altadena is the Pasadena Waldorf School Elves' Faire on the Saturday before Thanksgiving weekend.

This year, the 27th Faire will be on Sat., Nov. 17 at the school's campus at 209 E. Mariposa St. in Altadena, from 10 AM-4 PM. Admission is free.

The wooded Waldorf School campus, site of the historic Scripps Mansion, will become a fairy wonderland with food, crafts, activities, entertainment, and the chance to buy one-of-a-kind gifts and holiday items.  About 4,000 people attend the Faire every year.

Faire activities encompass all ages, from the "Pixie Party" with versions of the games and crafts for the younger set,  to jousting, a rope maze, and a photo studio for older children.  There is also entertainment, from music to storytelling on several stages throughout the day.

There is also shopping: grownups can look at the silent auction, and the younger children can visit "The Angel Room," a place to do their holiday shopping for the family accompanied by an 8th grade Waldorf school "angel."

The Elves' Faire is also a zero-waste event, with compostable dishes and utensils at the many food vendors.  Water is free, although you are asked to bring your own cup.

 

Altadena Junction: here come the holidays

The Waldorf School Elves' Faire, Westminster Presbyterian's Victorian Christmas, and oh yes, Altadena's birthday all highlight our weekly column in the Pasadena Sun.

 

Pasadena Mental Health Center fall fundraiser Sunday

The Pasadena Mental Health Center is holding its first Fall Fundraiser this Sun., Nov. 11, at Beyond the Olive, 10 N. Raymond Ave. in old town Pasadena from 6-8 PM.

Enjoy fabulous wine, appetizers, and cooking demonstrations by a renowned chef at 6:30, 7, and 7:30.

$20 donation at the door, and 10% of all sales will go to PMHC.  Photographer Brian Biery will have his photographs on display and for sale at the event, where 30% of all sales will go to PMHC.

The goal of the fundraiser is to raise $5,000 to provide free mental health services for 10 families who might not qualify for help elsewhere. 70% of the families served by PMHC are living below the poverty line and are uninsured or underinsured.  PHMC is one of the few providers of affordable, non-acute mental health services in the Pasadena area for low-income individuals and families who are uninsured and do not qualify for Medi-Cal.

 

County donates $100,000 to local bad weather shelter

 

Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich presents a $100,000 donation to ECPAC's Bad Weather Shelter on May , to ECPAC Director Rev. Pat O'Reilly

Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich presented a $100,000 check to the Ecumenical Council of Pasadena Area Congregations.  The Ecumenical Council has operated the Pasadena Bad Weather Shelter for 24 years serving the San Gabriel and San Fernando Valleys, including the cities of Pasadena, La Canada-Flintridge and Glendale, and the communities of Altadena and La Crescenta.

 

“Each night, more than 30 congregations and community groups volunteer, provide a hot meal and set up the shelter for the 150-200 homeless people,” said Antonovich in a statement. 

Morning jolt

• "Senior Moments" at WFS: Food Truck Friday may be cancelled, but newspaper columnist Patricia Bunin ("Senior Moments") will still be at Webster's Fine Stationers today to sign her new book, Password: Seniormoment starting at 6 PM. There will also be scrumptious appetizers and refreshments as only Webster's can do for your enjoyment.  Webster's Fine Stationers is at 2450 N. Lake Ave.
• Kettlebells are pealing: Revvell Revati tells us there is still some room in her two workshops on working out with kettle bells, Sat. starting at 9 AM and Wednesday, Nov. 14, starting at 7 PM.  Fee is $15, and space is limited: To reserve space and for location, email: Revvell@BodaciousLiving.com or 818-824-4422.
• Dawn Mission: Carol Raymond, deputy principal investigator for JPL’s Dawn mission to the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, will speak Friday, Nov. 9 at Pasadena City College’s Vosloh Forum, starting at 7 PM.  After completing 13 months of analyzing asteroid Vesta, Dawn is on its way to a February 2015 rendezvous with protoplanet Ceres. For information on the mission, visit http://dawn.jpl.nasa.gov.  Pasadena City College is located at 1570 E. Colorado Boulevard.
• Coffee Gallery hearing: a public hearing is set for Dec. 5, 2012 at 9 AMin Room 150, 320 West Temple Street, Los Angeles CA  90012 regarding renewing the Conditional Use Permit for the Coffee Gallery, 2025-2029 N. Lake Avenue Altadena. (Permit R2012-00380, RCUP 201200036, VARIANCE 201200003).
• Look out below: A lucky Altadena teen survived a 150 ft. bicycle plunge from the Angeles Crest Highway this week.  PSN has details.
• Rodriguez graduates: Oscar Rodriguez of Altadena earned a Bachelor Of Science in Criminal Justice Management from Union Institute and University in Sept. 2012.

Old World wine tasting at Ale House Sunday

Altadenablog sponsor The Altadena Ale & Wine House will have a tasting of old world wines on Sunday, Nov. 11, from 3-5 PM.

Admission is $25, and fine cheese and a baguette will be included.  Click on the graphic to see the selection.

 

Crime blotter: bad week for cars

Crime blotter provided by Altadena Sheriff Station. 

Thursday, November 1 

Approx. 12:35 PM – A petty theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred in the 100 block of W. Poppyfields Drive. Loss: gray Samsung slate computer. 

Between 7:00 PM and 11:50 PM – A vandalism occurred in the 2500 block of El Sol Avenue. 

Between 10:00 PM and 2:00 PM (Friday) – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 600 block  of E. Calaveras Street. Loss: green tool box, misc. tools. 

Saturday, November 3rd: 

Between 9:00 AM and 10:45 AM – A vehicle was reported stolen from the 2800 block  of Olive Ave. Vehicle stolen: gold 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe. 

If you have information to report that could help lead to an arrest in these crimes/crime activity, please contact the Altadena Sheriff's Station at 798-1131.

ACONA announces speakers for Nov. 27 meeting: traffic, fire safety

Elliot Gold at ACONA (Altadena Coalition of Neighborhood Associations) has announced the agenda and speakers for the next meeting, Nov. 27 at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St., from 7-8:30 PM;

1. Traffic: Paul Barbe, Civil Engineer with the Traffic and Lighting Division of LA County, will discuss traffic issues in Altadena 
2. Highway Patrol: Captain Steven Strull of the California Highway Patrol will also discuss issues related to traffic in Altadena from an enforcement standpoint 
3. Fire Safety: Stephanie English, Community Services Liaison for Division III  Fire Station 73 of the Los Angeles County Fire Department will cover fire safety, especially with the Santa Ana winds about to come about. ACONA have also invited Jay Lopez, who is with the Fire Department, who lives in Altadena.

Food Truck Friday canceled

Bummer!  Catalina Juarez at Webster's Community Pharmacy e-mailed to say that, due to threat of rain, there'll be no Fancy Food Truck Friday today -- try again in December!

Despite Prop. 30 success, PUSD to make cuts

by Joe Piasecki
Pasadena Sun

Despite the passage of Proposition 30, 'austerity measures' will continue at Pasadena public schools, Supt. Jon Gundry said Wednesday.

The state tax increase backed by Gov. Jerry Brown will prevent a $5 million cut in state funding for the Pasadena Unified School District this year.

But the measure will not prevent school district budget reductions of $10.3 million to $12 million during the 2013-14 school year, according to Gundry.

“The fiscal situation in PUSD remains dire," a statement by Gundry reads. "The combination of a structural deficit and declining enrollment will force the district to make an estimated $10.3 million to $12 million in cuts for the 2013-2014 school year, depending on future tax revenue from the state.”

More at the Pasadena Sun.

 

In the red zone

Reader Tim Murphy shares this picture of crews involved in the rescue of a hiker at first waterfall in Eaton Canyon Wednesday night. The Altadena Sheriff's Station said the hiker was dehydrated, but was located and rescued.

Breaking: hiker rescue going on now

by Timothy Rutt

At 5:30, Altadena Sheriff's Station says there's another hiker being rescued at Eaton Canyon, hence the helicopter.  No more details currently available.

Eliot, John Muir artists showcase Room 13 works at Opus Bank

Artists from the Eliot Middle School and John Muir High School Room 13 programs will showcase their artwork at Opus Bank, 2 N. Lake Ave. in Pasadena, in a reception on Tues., Nov. 13.  

The reception, from 5:30-7:30 PM, features poetry, caricature artists, and the Pix-by-Tweens photobooth.

Room 13 is an international program of student-driven creative studios, teaching both creative expresion and entrepreneurship, which now includes over 90 studios worldwide.  Locally, Room 13 is a program of the Lightbringer Project.

Pasadena museum looks at 35 years of Doo Dah Parade

from the Pasadena Musesum of History 

Photo: "Bed of Roses" by Sarah Reingewirtz

The Occasional Pasadena Doo Dah Parade is known for being anything but serious. But for one night, it will be. During "Doo Dah Deconstructed," a panel will discuss the changes in the parade's relationship with the community over the years, why it continues to thrive, and why some people love it while others find it offensive.

Brad Macneil will moderate panelists Tom Coston, Sue Mossman, Ann Erdman, Denise Lawrence-Zuniga, Peter Wilson and Scott Finnell. With Snotty Scotty among the panelists, you know anything can happen! 

Thursday, November 8 at 7:30 PM,  Pasadena Museum of History, 470 W. Walnut St. (free parking).  cost is $5 (also covers light refreshments).

Reservations are recommended as seating is limited. Please call 626-577-1660

Kettlebell fundamental training classes in Altadena Nov. 10 and 14

by TImothy Rutt

Training with kettlebells is a new way to work for both strength and cardio, adaptable to how you move and your own condition.  The bodacious Revvell Revati is offering workshops in the coming week on how to use kettlebells safely and effectively to meet your fitness goals.

Classes will be held Sat., Nov. 10, from 9-10:30 AM or Wed., Nov. 14, from 7-8:30 AM.  Fee is $15 cash, and space is limited for individual assistance.

To reserve space and for location, email: Revvell@BodaciousLiving.com or 818-824-4422.