New Growth for the New Year?

Sent in from one of our neighbors.


"Here are two photos taken along the El Prieto Trail from approximately the same vantage point. The first was taken on January 18, 2006. The copious fruition of the toyons gives an appearance of flowered trees!


The second photo was snapped on December 24, 2009, to contrast the former beauty of the scene with the stark landscape left by the Station Fire.

It'll be quite a while before the scene returns to its former glory. Meanwhile, Happy New Year!"

Power Outage (Again)

From www.sce.com:

City : ALTADENA
Zip Code : 91001
Start Date & Time : Tuesday, December 22, 2009 12:13 PM
Issue : There is currently a power outage in this area.This outage is due to an equipment problem.
Status : Repair crews are looking for the cause of the power problem.
Currently, we do not have an estimated time when service will be fully restored. We will update this message as information is known. Please check back again later.

Sheriff's Annual Toy Drive Dec 19

Altadena Sheriff's Annual Holiday Toy Drive Sgt Bartlett, Community Relations
626-798-1131

If you would like to help with this annual event to help others have a better Christmas, see below:

Saturday Dec 19th.

Would like folks there at the station by 6AM to help. The event starts at 7AM and goes to 11AM on Saturday December 19th, 2009.

For teens above the age of 12, the sheriffs will sign slips for earning community volunteer hours

Volunteers on Patrol Seeking Volunteers

The LA County Sheriffs are looking for service minded volunteers to apply for their "Volunteers on Patrol Program".

It is a short training period. You will get driving courses in a squad car and learn radio codes and much more. The program needs you about 20 hours a month. If anyone out in the community is interested contact Sgt Bartlett and he can assist you (626-798-1131), or you can go online and fill out an application.

http://www.lasd.org/aboutlasd/volunteer/volunteer_info.html
http://www.lasd.org/online_form/volunteer/volunteer_application.html

Voltage Tower Footing Erosion

fyi - a neighbor has reported the erosion at the base of this high voltage tower footing that's located way up on Risinghill to Edison.

Careful Coming Up Canyon Crest

Be careful driving up Canyon Crest. There are many large rocks that have come down into the street from the hillside. County has already been up here at least one day to clear. On my way home at 4:00 p.m., I had to drive on the outside curve to avoid the many rocks.

MFSC Tree Update

The Meadows FireSafe Council is winding down on the last phase of the grant. Tree vendors will be in the neighborhood for about five more days.

We've reached approximately 55 properties with varying degrees of tree or bush removal. To give you an idea, a day's work with one tree vendor is approximately $2000 paid for by the grant money. So, besides making ourselves more fire safe, the grant is bringing great value and savings to homeowners.

The FireSafe Council has heard many, many compliments for the volunteer work they've performed and the excellence of the tree vendors. We've heard two concerns from neighbors about the removal of trees and its impact to their specific property or the look of The Meadows in general. Overall, the positives have well outweighed the negatives.

Besides making us more fire-safe, the removal of the trees is helping indigenous trees thrive as they were fighting for sunlight or space. Several diseased trees were removed which will help to curb further infestation. And, many wonderful views of the mountains, canyons and city lights have been restored.

Postings on Craigslist.com for free firewood has benefit ted many in the Antelope Valley. These folks have driven in to get the firewood as it is sometimes their only source of heat during the Winter. They, too, have expressed much gratitude.

Many thanks to the FireSafe Council volunteers who have put in countless hours in meetings, planning, working with the brush and tree vendors, addressing neighbors questions and coordinating all of the work.

Holiday Theft Prevention

From our Sheriff Liaison:

"I have been asked by the Sheriff's Department to remind all of us that this time of year generally law enforcement agencies generally see highest reports of vehicle break-ins.

Not only are thieves out looking for gifts in your car, but they're looking for anything else they can steal - laptops, cell phones, GPS devices, Bluetooth devices, iPods, Mp3 players, expensive/designer sun glasses, cash.

Don't be a victim.Protect yourself and your belongings by hiding the things in your car - out of sight.
Lock your car.
Remember - Lock It, Hide It or Lose It!"

2nd Annual Bike Tour of Altadena

LOS ANGELES COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT
ALTADENA SHERIFF’S STATION and LOS ANGELES SHERIFF’S ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION PRESENTS

2009 Tour of Altadena Bike RideSaturday, December 5, 2009 9:00AM - 1:00PM
10 Mile FAMILY FUN RIDE or12.5 Mile HILL CHALLENGE
Start and end at Loma Alta Park, Bronco Pavilion
Palm Street, east of Lincoln Avenue
AltadenaBike Ride Entry- $10.00Registration - 8:00-8:45AM
Bike Rides Start - 9:00AM
Opportunity Drawing Tickets $1.00, or (6) for $5.00.
11:00 AM - Barbecue - $6.00 (Includes burger or hot dog, chips, salad and a drink.

***All proceeds will benefit the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Annual Charitable Giving Campaign***For further information contact: Sergeant Daniel Bartlett at Altadena Station (626)296-2106

Canyon Crest Trashed Again

The hairpin on Canyon Crest was trashed again sometime Tuesday night or Wednesday morning. County Public Works was called and responded within an hour to mark off the area. Clean-up may not happen until Monday.

Zooh Corner Rabbit Rescue

From one of our Meadows neighbors:

PET PHOTOS WITH SANTA!
Saturday, December 5th and Saturday, December 12th, 11 am to 4 pm PETCO at 7262 Rosemead Blvd. in San Gabriel

Zooh Corner Rabbit Rescue is partnering with PETCO to provide this very special opportunity, just in time for the holidays! Bring your critters to have their photo taken with our jolly (human) Santa Claus. Photos are only $8.95 plus tax, and $5.00 from the sale of each photo benefits Zooh Corner! And it's not just for bunnies - all critters are welcome. We'll also have rabbit care info, adoptable bunnies, and toys and hay for sale.

BONUS: on December 12th, we'll have all of the above PLUS special spa-style grooming sessions to pamper your bunny (only $15.00!) and an expanded Christmas Bunny Boutique with an even larger selection of toys and goodies for your buns, guinea pigs, and chinchillas.

2010 Census is Coming

Highlights from presentation made at October Town Council:

It's Important: How undercounting impacts our County: $636 million- the estimated revenue lost in Federal funding to the County of Los Angeles from 2002 to 2012 because of the undercount in 2000 (not including funds from State programs that are distributed to local governments based on official population counts).

The U.S. Census Bureau is required by the Constitution to count every resident in the United States every 10 years. It is estimated that $400 billion in annual Federal funding is distributed based on the Census data on infrastructure and services.

In March of 2010, Census forms will be delivered to every residence in the County of Los
Angeles. The Census form consists of 10 short questions and includes a postage-paid envelope to mail back. If the form is not mailed back, a Census taker will visit the residence and ask the questions from the form. The majority of the County will receive English-only materials; however, households in areas with high concentrations of Spanish-speaking residents will receive a bilingual version.

It's Easy: 10 questions, 10 minutes
It's Safe: Your answers are protected, your identify is safe

Huge communication campaign to get the word out. Would love to have Altadena on board.

www.Census.gov website and open up positions for jobs
Pasadena census office is on Altadena drive
Website: http://2010.census.gov/

Read ahead for more detailed information regarding security.

Be Cautious About Giving Info to Census Workers . With the U.S. Census process beginning, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises people to be cooperative, but cautious, so as not to become a victim of fraud or identity theft.

The first phase of the 2010 U.S. Census is under way as workers have begun verifying the addresses of households across the country. Eventually, more than 140,000 U.S. Census workers will count every person in the United States and will gather information about every person living at each address including name, age, gender, race, and other relevant data.

The big question is - how do you tell the difference between a U.S. Census worker and a con artist? BBB offers the following advice:

** If a U.S. Census worker knocks on your door, they will have a badge, a handheld device, a Census Bureau canvas bag, and a confidentiality notice. Ask to see their identification and their badge before answering their questions. However, you should never invite anyone you don't know into your home.
** Census workers are currently only knocking on doors to verify address information. Do not give your Social Security number, credit card or banking information to anyone, even if they claim they need it for the U.S. Census.

REMEMBER, NO MATTER WHAT THEY ASK, YOU REALLY ONLY NEED TO TELL THEM HOW MANY PEOPLE LIVE AT YOUR ADDRESS. While the Census Bureau might ask for basic financial information, such as a salary range, YOU DON'T HAVE TO ANSWER ANYTHING AT ALL ABOUT YOUR FINANCIAL SITUATION. The Census Bureau will not ask for Social Security, bank account, or credit card numbers, nor will employees solicit donations. Any one asking for that information is NOT with the Census Bureau. AND REMEMBER, THE CENSUS BUREAU HAS DECIDED NOT TO WORK WITH ACORN (Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now) ON GATHERING THIS INFORMATION. No Acorn worker should approach you saying he/she is with the Census Bureau.

Eventually, Census workers may contact you by telephone, mail, or in person at home. However, the Census Bureau will not contact you by Email, so be on the lookout for Email scams impersonating the Census. Never click on a link or open any attachments in an Email that are supposedly from the U.S. Census Bureau. For more advice on avoiding identity theft and fraud, visit www.bbb.org

PLEASE SHARE THIS INFO WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS.

Lots of Logs

There are plenty of logs available for anyone who needs firewood. They're yours for the taking.

The Meadows FireSafe Council tree removal has begun this week. Logs are being stacked at the curbside starting with Risinghill and El Prieto Roads (all the way up the private road). If anyone wants firewood, now's the time to grab it. There's pine, cedar, and eucalyptus. Any logs not needed will be removed within the next couple of weeks.

Feel free to grab and go!

Two Mountain Lion Alerts

Two recent mountain lion incidents:

First, in The Meadows. Last week, a mountain lion attacked and killed a Meadows neighbor's dog on the private road on Canyon Dell.

Second, from our neighbors at Chaney Trail, this post:

Date: Wednesday, November 11, 2009, 6:07 PM
Hello all, Tonight as I came home, I drove up the Chaney hill after locking the gate and passed our beloved neighbor Bonnie Callahan walking down the hill with her nose buried in her book, as usual. I rounded the corner past Bonnie and about 50 yards later came upon a large female mountain lion.

It was definitely following Bonnie. I scared it up onto the hillside, turned my car around and gave Bonnie a ride back to the gate. She safely scooted home from there.

I turned my car back around and headed back up the hill where I ran into a really nice bunch of teenagers walking down the road. I warned them about the lion and they said they heard some kits (is that the plural of mountain lion babies?) down in the canyon on the opposite side of the road. Clearly, they belonged to Mama Stalker Kitty.

MFSC Tree Removal Begins

Tree removal under the Meadows FireSafe Council 2009 grant will begin Monday morning, November 16 starting at the tops of Risinghill Road and El Prieto Road. Steven's Trees and Gomez Tree Service will be moving through the neighborhood over the next several weeks. Homeowners will be contacted with approximate schedules as the work progresses.

Sheriff Food and Toy Drive

Last year, the Altadena Sheriff's station distributed food and toys to more than 200 families.
This year, more families than ever are experiencing dire straits.

If you are able and willing, you may drop off canned goods at the Altadena Sheriff's Station any time between now and December 15th. Toys for children from newborn to 15 years of age would also be very welcome.

Small donations, large donations, or cash donations - even a dollar, can make an impact on helping meet the needs of our community. Many thanks for your support.

MFSC Tree Removal Begins Soon

The Meadows FireSafe Council begins its final phase of this year's grant work with the removal of trees as agreed to by homeowners.

Beginning this weekend for several days, MFSC members will be contacting homeowners to tape the trees that will be removed. Homeowners should check our work to make sure the correct trees are taped and that the homeowners are still in agreement with the designated trees.

Removal of the trees should begin within the next two weeks with two vendors, Steven's Trees and Gomez Tree Removal working in the neighborhood.

Due to the great response we had and the limits of the budget, the grant work is expected to only cover tree removal, not tree trimming. In cases where there are many trees to be removed on one property, the MFSC member and homeowner will agree to specific trees. Not all can be removed given the budget.

Homeowners are welcome to obtain bids from Steven's and Gomez for tree trimming as they may offer better rates while in the neighborhood. That work would be done after the grant work is completed.

Thanks for your participation in this year's fuel reduction - making The Meadows more fire-safe.

Forest Closed Through September 2010

As of Oct. 1 and effective through Sept. 2010 (yes, correct, 2010), Angeles Forest and the burn areas are CLOSED to ALL use.

From the forest service website - Station Fire Recovery order: http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/angeles/orders/StationFireRecoveryOrder-01-09-08.pdf

Next Up....Locust!

Kidding. Here's some pics from the dirt and dust that are being carried from the burned areas into our neighborhood with the arrival of the Santa Ana winds. These are pics from my front yard. Sorry for the spotty photos, but I think that's the blowing dust and dirt on the lens.

Obviously, stay indoors if you can. Winds are expected to diminish tomorrow. In the meantime, welcome to The Meadows Mojave!

Deer in The Meadows

In response to the news that the hunter is back in The Meadows, here's a pic of one of many deer that visit the hillside behind my house on an almost daily basis. I've been blessed to have four and five deer at a time foraging on the plants in the brush.

Would love to get more pics from around the neighborhood to post on the blog.

Injured Deer?

From a neighbor:

"As many of you know, Joe Clay, AKA Rambro has been seen hunting with bow and arrow in the Meadows and Millard Canyon areas again.

He was seen parked on El Prieto yesterday, in full camo gear as usual. I am sure it is no coincidence that later in the day, I got a report that a local postal carrier saw a deer with an arrow sticking in its side.

I am not sure exactly where the injured deer was seen. If anyone has more information (please reply to this post).

I have reported this to Dept. of Fish & Game. If you have any more info - here is the direct phone line to our "local" F&G office: (951) 443-2969 - ask for the FISH & GAME OPERATOR."

Mountain Lion Sighting

From Meadows neighbors yesterday:

"We saw a mountain lion near the Canyon Crest hairpin turn last night about 10 p.m. It was just off to the side of the road, slinking into the canyon. Not a huge cat, but big enough I guess."

U2 on Sunday

Heads up on traffic Sunday night. The U2 concert is at the Rose Bowl on Sunday at 8:30 p.m. Capacity is normally 65,000. U2 is creating a venue for 95,000 to attend. Traffic will potentially be very heavy near the Rose Bowl and on the 210.

Anyone have extra tickets? cause "I still haven't found what I'm looking for!"

Millard Canyon Conservation Project--Volunteer Day

From Mike Hickman -

Well, it's that time again! Bird nesting season is officially over for this year and we can once again get back to doing restoration work and invasive weed removal in Lower Millard Canyon.
Our next Volunteer Day will be this coming Saturday, October 24, 9am to 1:30pm.

As usual, we will gather in my driveway at 9am sharp (3617 Canyon Crest Rd., Altadena 91001)
You will need to wear long pants and hiking shoes/boots. Layering with a long sleeve shirt is also recommended.

We supply gloves, tools, snacks and water.

A MAJOR IMPROVEMENT: We have installed railroad tie stairs leading into the canyon work area, eliminating the difficult and steep hike into and out of the canyon some of you may remember from last season. Getting there and back is much easier and only takes a few minutes now.

At this point, I would like thank and welcome those of you who signed up recently for the volunteer notifications and say we look forward to getting to know you better as we all work toward improving the wildland habitat in the canyon.
So thanks in advance, and I hope a whole bunch of you show up Saturday.

Any questions?
Mike Hickman
(626) 398-6471

MFSC: Tree Vendors in The Meadows

The Meadows FireSafe Council met with two tree vendors at five properties this past week to obtain bids for tree removal.

Please know that Steven's Trees and Gomez Tree Service may drive around the neighborhood to look at the trees identified in the assessments. Given the recent burglaries in East Altadena, we want you to know that these tree vendors WILL NOT be knocking on your door or asking permission to enter your property. They may only be driving around the neighborhood.

Anyone other than Steven's Trees and Gomez Tree Service is not authorized by The Meadows FireSafe Council.

Hunter in Area - Please Use Caution

This post was sent out this morning. Please read and use caution. As stated in the post, do not approach these guys. Instead, call the Sherriff.

Chaney Trail listserve reports that there have been separate recent sightings of both the hunter known as “Rambro” a middle age, black male driving a maroon van, and another hunter, matching the following description: white male, husky build in camo-gear, with a backpack, wearing a large hunting knife.

The male wearing camo-gear was driving a white truck has been seen at other trailheads. He also had a large grey dog with him (appeared to be a pitbull, on leash) and was driving a white Chevy Silverado pick-up truck (CA lic. plate 7P29732) parked at the Sunset Ridge / Mount Wilson Fire Road trailhead (top of Chaney Trail).

A man in camo-gear, was wearing a backpack, wearing a large hunting knife got out of the truck. Image attached.

The vehicle has been seen there before by Lonnie, campground host of Millard Campground. The truck is covered with US Marine Corps decals and bumper stickers on the back window area that read: Body Piercing by the USMC (next to a human silhouette full of bullet holes) and I'll keep my guns, freedom & money...You can keep the "change".

Sheriffs and USFS have been notified.

Please do not approach! When Lonnie informed the man courteously that the Forest was closed and asked him if he'd seen all the signs. The man replied, "I've seen every F*cking one of them!" He then put his hand on his knife and Lonnie thought it wise to withdraw at that point.

If you see any vehicles where they don't belong, or suspicious persons in the burn area or on surrounding trails, particularly if they are obviously armed, please contact the Altadena Sheriffs immediately at: 626.798.1131.

PCC Collects e-Waste

The Pasadena City College Flea Market, held the first Sunday of every month from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., has been conducting e-Waste collection for the benefit of the community.

Tri-Products collects all e-Waste goods in the parking lot at Hill Avenue and Del Mar Blvd. The next flea market is this Sunday, Oct. 4.

Meadows Resident at Art on Palm Oct. 10

Meadows resident, Katherine Nakazono, will be exhibiting her art work on Saturday, October 10, 2009 at Art on Palm in Altadena from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm. The address is 1419 E. Palm Street.

http://www.nakazonoglassart.com/

Burglary Suspects Caught

From the Sherriff's Community Advisory Council regarding an attempted burglary:

"I just heard from Captain Blow at the Altadena Sheriff Station that 2 men have been arrested within the last hour attempting to break into a home on New York Drive.

They knocked on a door with a flyer of a lost cat saying they were looking for their cat. Luckily the homeowners were: (1) at home (2) knew the owners of the cat and knew these guys had nothing to do with the cat owners (3) called the station immediately (4) had a security camera showing the 2nd guy trying to pry open a window. This makes a good case!

Again, the Captain wants everyone to know - if there is anyone suspicious knocking on the door or in your neighborhood, CALL THE STATION @ 626-798-1131 and report it. Best if you ask for the watch commander to get immediate action.
We have the station number programmed into our phone and a sticker on each phone with the number, suggest you consider the same."

BBQs Needed for First Responder Event

There has been a huge response to the upcoming First Responder event on Oct. 1.
The Parks Department is in need of a (some) decent sized BBQs for the event. If you can help out, please call or email Wes directly. Contact info is below.

Volunteers needed to honor first responders at Oct. 1 barbecue
LA County Department of Parks and Recreation is looking for volunteers to help them hold a barbecue for firefighters and sheriff's deputies to honor them for their work on the Station Fire.The barbecue will be Thurs. Oct. 1 at Farnsworth Park, from 11 AM- 3PM. Wes Kawano, recreation services leader of the Altadena/Foothill District of county parks and rec says: "If at all possible, we would like to get as many community volunteers as possible to assist us in setting up, serving or delivering food to the event." If you have any questions or can help out, Wes Kawano says he can be emailed at wkawano@parks.lacounty.gov or reached on his cell at 323.273.7090.

Deer on Canyon Crest - Please Slow Down

From a neighbor in The Meadows:

"I have been passing quite a few deer - sometimes as many as 5, crossing the road on Canyon Crest heading to The Meadows area just before the Smokey sign as you are coming in.
There is a fruit tree dropping fruit into the street and they are often stopped on the road eating.

I am so worried someone is going to hit them. Please, SLOW FOR BAMBI! And please tell your friends and visitors also."

Emergency Preparedness Seminar

Carpool Needed

From Krista on Gravelia. Please contact her at kristaware@gmail.com if you can help:

"My car recently broke down and I've been walking down/up from the bus stop at Lincoln/Altadena Drive for the past week. It will be another month or so before my car will be fully fixed; while the walk is great exercise (and quite nice in the cool mornings) it is not ideal."

Krista is looking for carpooling down the hill and possibly points further - for example, a Metro Station or even as far as Downtown LA which is where she works. She is looking for a steady ride in place for which she would gratefully chip in for fuel.

Volunteers Needed for Firefighter/Sheriff BBQ

From AltadenaBlog.com and others:

Volunteers needed to honor first responders at Oct. 1 barbecue
LA County Department of Parks and Recreation is looking for volunteers to help them hold a barbecue for firefighters and sheriff's deputies to honor them for their work on the Station Fire.

The barbecue will be Thurs. Oct. 1 at Farnsworth Park, from 11 AM- 3PM. Wes Kawano, recreation services leader of the Altadena/Foothill District of county parks and rec says: "If at all possible, we would like to get as many community volunteers as possible to assist us in setting up, serving or delivering food to the event." If you have any questions or can help out, Kawano says he can be emailed at wkawano@parks.lacounty.gov or reached on his cell at 323.273.7090.

Free Yard Clean-Up and Handyman Services

From AltadenaBlog.com. This could be good for our seniors in The Meadows. Please mention it to them as they may not have Internet access to read this post:

"I posted a few days ago that I was referred to Alta/Pasa Community Improvement Center, a non-profit that provides free yard clean up and handyman services for senior citizens and low-to-mid income people, while providing employment to local folks.
The crew came today and did a bang-up job of cleaning debris and dry brush from both the front and back. They showed up first thing in the morning and put in a full day, trimming, removing dead plants, raking, and sweeping. They had all the equipment and hauled away all the trash.
It was awesome to come home from work to a clean, manicured yard. I have been very discouraged about my yard, so this was a wonderful gift."

Pics of Hills and Canyons

From a neighbor on Sunmore:

"I took a bunch of saddening photos on my ride the other day if you want to show any to others who are hikers or riders."

http://web.mac.com/andreadamian/iWeb/Site/Photos.html

Altadena Burglary Forum

The details for the forum to address the spike in residential burglaries have been firmed up.

This is your opportunity to find out what the Sheriff's Department has been doing about burglaries, what they are currently doing and what is planned. It is also your opportunity to find out what you can do to HELP the Sheriff's Department and your neighborhood, including ways to better protect your homes without jeopardizing your safety.

Altadena Sheriff's Community Forum on Burglary
Wednesday, October 7
7:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Daniel Webster Elementary School Auditorium
2101 East Washington Boulevard, Pasadena

This forum will start promptly at 7 pm. The doors will open no later than 6:30 pm.
Please make plans to attend.

Edison Power Outage Revised End Time

Expected to come home to restored power. This is from the Edison website:

Scheduled Start: Monday,September 14, 2009 8:00 AM
Estimated Power Restoration: Has been revised to Monday, September 14, 2009 9:30 PM

Update on Criminal Activity and

From our Sherrif Community Liaison:

Last week on Wednesday night, on the east side of Altadena, a resident called the Sheriff's Station to report a burglary in process, and indicated that two men rang his front door bell and when the resident didn't answer, they shook the door. Then, one of the men went back to the sidewalk and stood, the other disappeared from sight. The resident thought perhaps he should go look at the rear of his home. Sure enough, the other man was trying to gain entry.

The Sheriff's deputies arrived too quickly (depending on your point of view) and the man attempting to gain entry hadn't yet succeeded. Both men were arrested, but could only be arrested on attempted burglary. We don't know yet what the outcome of that will be.

At the beginning of this week, the Detectives who have been working on all of the burglaries asked Captain Blow if they could set up a community meeting on the subject of burglary. That community meeting is tentatively scheduled for early October. We are waiting for confirmation from the school at which it will be held.

Many things are frustrating the process of capturing burglars and prosecuting them successfully. To the Detectives and Deputies, it doesn't help if you email each other when you see suspicious activity in your neighborhood, but you don't call the Sheriff's Station.

If you won't call the Sheriff's Station, the deputies cannot just stop someone from driving or parking in your area. They have to have a cause to stop and question someone.

They have asked many times for all of us to call when you see strangers in your neighborhood. These people may have a legitimate reason for being there, and if they do, the deputies will sort that out.

It also isn't so helpful if you call to report an attempted burglary or that someone broke into your car two weeks after the event occurred. Nothing works better than catching burglars in the progress.

The Detectives and Deputies need your help. Last Wednesday night before the resident called to advise that someone was attempting to break in to his home, two men knocked on someone else's door. That happened earlier in the evening, but I don't know how much earlier. In this instance, the resident answered the door, and the stranger asked if he could come in. The resident said, "no", and shut the door.

While at my residence in New Mexico, I received 2 emails from my homeowner's association advising of 3 daytime burglaries here - all described in exactly the same way - knock on the front door, no answer, they head to the back of the house and find a way to make entry, or in one incident, they forced entry at the front door. Just like we are experiencing in Altadena, the burglars are also very bold and will enter a home through the front door if it is unlocked, even if someone is in the house. They walk in, take the TV and any handy computer and out they go before anyone even realizes someones been inside their home.

You can be part of the solution. Don't leave your doors and windows unlocked. Don't make it any easier that it already seems to be for people to break in.

More importantly - CALL THE SHERIFF'S STATION 626 798 1131

I'll have confirmation of the date for the community meeting by Monday.As always, if you have questions, please feel free to let me know.

Thanks very much,
Carolyn

Guards at Top of Risinghill

Just received this info. Not sure how it will effect hiking for Meadows residents:

The County has hired private security guards to assist local law enforcement in areas surrounding Angeles National Forest.

A number of these guards are now posted at the end of Risinghill Road. Only residents that live beyond that point, and their guests along with emergency responders, will be allowed through.

The guards began last night and will be there 24/7 for at least the next week, with possible extensions while the forest remains closed.

Firefighter Presence Still in Meadows

A report from the top of Risinghill this morning:

"We continue to see constant daily presence of either Fire engines and/or Forest Service Fire. They continue to monitor and spend a significant amount of time up here. Still no sign of the bears. So so sad."

Injured or Ill Wildlife Info

From MaryEllen - her contact info is in the right margin of this blog:

"Just a reminder, if you spot any injured small mammals (bobcat size or smaller) you can call me - my number is listed on this blog. For larger mammals, you will need to contact Fish and Game. Sometimes we do not see signs of burn injuries, especially those to paws and bellies, until several weeks after the fire, when infection sets in and the animals become ill, so remember to keep an eye out in the coming weeks for animals who may appear ill rather than injured. And remember - do not approach an injured animal unless you have the training and equipment! Even an animal that appears very lethargic or severely injured will fight furiously to defend itself.

"If you cannot reach me, or are trying to help an injured bird, the California Council for Wildlife Rehabilitators (www.ccwr.org) has a listing of contact information for local rehabbers, as well as contact information for Fish and Game."

-- MaryEllen SchoemanWriter/Consultant
http://www.naturetoothandclaw.com

Control Burn

I don't think this impacts The Meadows, but may explain all the helicopter activity this afternoon.

STATION FIRE UPDATE
LOS ANGELES (Tuesday, September 8, 2009 – 2:30 p.m.) –
**There is a Control Burn taking place at the Foothill area which will go on throughout the afternoon or as weather permits. ** Fire breaks will be improved from Bear Creek toward Mt. Waterman, the San Gabriel drainage, and at strategic locations along Forest Highway 2. Crews will construct additional fireline from Chileno Canyon north to Twin Peaks drainage. Crews and equipment have begun repairing fireline along the west side of the fire.
The main focus will be to construct and improve fireline along the eastern perimeter of the fire.

MFSC Tree Status

The Meadows FireSafe Council is proceeding with the next stage of tree removal in the neighborhood. We have identified over 60 trees for removal. Next step will be getting bids of tree services in the next several weeks.

Mountain Lion Sighting

On Saturday evening, from a Meadows neighbor:

"We just saw a beautiful little lion this evening near the Meadows sign on canyon crest. I guess they don't have many nice places to hangout.
It was not afraid of the car lights."

Fun Addition to Our Sign

Thanks to the anonymous neighbor who added this balloon to our sign!

Forest Closed

Forest is closed until further notice. Sheriffs have put cones on our road leading up to the top of Risinghill Road. NO ONE is allowed up except residents and emergency personnel. Hot Shots were up this morning doing their checking; they continue to monitor.

More Wildlife Assistance Information

From the top of Risinghill:

A great place for an assortment of seeds is Red Barn Feed; their price on wild bird and nyjer seeds beats Petco. Also, Walmart has really good prices on birdseed.

I have seen several deer up here, grey squirrels, chipmunks, a rabbit, quail, blue and scrub jays, some woodpeckers, and assorted birds. I have food out and will continue to do so. I also set the 'shower' sprinkler on in the mornings and evenings as the birds love to run through it. I've got several bowls of water set out which the deer are definitely taking advantage of. As a former Audubon Society employee, I'm contacting them this week to see if there is any way they can send bird food our way. I will keep you posted.

Ways to Help Wildlife

Useful information from an Altadena resident regarding ways to aid wildlife impacted by the fire.

Dear Friends, Neighbors & Trail Users,
I am seeing species of birds at my mixed seed and nyger feeders that I either don't usually see until late autumn (juncos, mountain chickadees, nuthatches) or that I never see at all (mountain blue birds, downey woodpeckers, and even a cactus wren). Someone told me they noticed a mountain quail mixed in with the California quail covey under their feeder! Large flocks of band-tailed forest pigeons have been seen flying away from burning oak woodland. Those large birds depend upon acorns.

Many birds have survived the massive Station / Angeles National Forest Fire by flying from the flames; however, they now find themselves without food, shelter, and nest sites. Birds may arrive disoriented, exhausted and frightened in our trees and gardens. Local birds may attempt to chase the "intruding refugees" from their territory.

I've been in contact with colleagues at the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology in upstate N.Y. I was told, "If there is any hope of saving small birds with bird feeders, seed needs to be put out immediately, because small birds can’t survive very long without food." Small birds have fast metabolisms that burn energy quickly with little fat reserve.

Local residents can immediately assist birds displaced by the wildfire. Fill conventional bird feeders with seed. Nothing fancy, just any brand of basic wildbird seed mix. Scatter seed on the ground for birds that prefer to feed there and to reduce competition at feeder perches. Also put out finch feeders and seed-socks filled with black nyger seed. Suet cakes, preferred by some species such as acorn woodpeckers (many of whom have lost their granary trees) and supplemental sugar water for hummingbirds would also be of great benefit.

Seed and feeders are available at many local pet shops, PetCo, Pet Smart and OSH. The best price for costly black nyger seed is at the Pet Smart on Foothill Blvd. and Sierra Madre Villa (in the Hastings Village shopping area that includes Ross, Best Buy, and Bed, Bath & Beyond).
Providing short term food, temporary shelter and fresh water will enable birds who have lost their homes to recover from exhaustion, smoke and stress. From bird feeders they can obtain enough energy to look for replacement habitat elsewhere in the region. Every little bit of supplemental food will help the birds.

Next spring, putting up nest boxes to replace the loss of trees and other nest sites will be helpful. There is a long recovery ahead for the Angeles Forest and wildlife habitat that has burned around us.

Thanks to those of you who can feed the birds along with the Merriam's chipmunks, western grey squirrels and other wildlife who also benefit from seed on the ground.

As deer, rabbits, raccoons and other wildlife move through the burn area and our yards, please try to be forgiving when your roses, fruit trees, shrubs and vegetables get browsed. These animals are bewildered, some are injured, and all will be hungry. Give displaced wildlife respect and room to move east and west through our neighborhoods to new homes in unburned canyons. We may even see an increase in bear, bobcat, cougar and snake incursions. Foxes and coyotes have been seeing moving across Hahamongna Watershed Park. Be alert and take reasonable precautions to store food waste properly and avoid surprise encounters.

Thank you,
Lori L. Paul, RVT

Altadena Arts Coalition Saturday

From the hosts: "After all the anxiety over the Station Fire, Altadena could surely use a party. Come join us Saturday, Sept. 5th at 5:00 p.m. and let's celebrate Altadena!"

Altadena Arts Coalition's North Lake Business District Open House
PROJECT: ALTADENA!
Host: Webster's Fine Stationers
Type: Music/Arts - Exhibit
Price: Free
Date: Saturday, September 5, 2009
Time: 5:00pm - 8:00pm
Location: Various locations along No. Lake Ave.
Street: Lake Avenue
City/Town: Altadena, CA

Remember how great the last North Lake Business District's open house was? The Altadena Arts Coalition is about to do it again on Saturday, September 5th! Starting at 5:00 p.m.

Altadena! photo exhibit will be unveiled in Galloway Alley, right behind Altadena Hardware & Steve's Bike Shop. There will be food booths highlighting selections from O'Happy Days, The Coffee Gallery and Park Bench Deli, plus there will be a taco booth, too!

Altadena's own band, Wreck & Sow, will be playing for your enjoyment....brothers Pierre and Andre Dupuy along with band members Mike Stave, Randy Cochran and Dan Leahy are all set to tear it up. This night is going to be huge, people!

Various merchants on North Lake will be open late and offering their own entertainment and goodies....Webster's Fine Stationers will host a book signing with Altadena authors Andre Coleman, Revvell Ravati, Michele Zack, Michelle Huneven and Jervey Tervalon. We'll also have Bo Astrup's LA Photobooth outside the store so you can record your memories of this fabulous evening forever!

We urge you to come check it out. Project: Altadena! will be the largest photo-exhibit of its kind in Altadena history. Over 2,000 photos, all taken with disposable cameras by Altadena residents of what they love about "their" Altadena! One photo from each entrant will be enlarged to 8X10 and will be on display (and for sale) at Altadena Junction on El Molino Ave.

More Pics and Time Lapse

With his kind permission, Dan Finnerty shares some amazing time lapse photos of the Station Fire's progress burning down the Arroyo Seco towards JPL and homes along Starlight Mesa in La Canada, plus a time lapse of the fire that got picked up by local TV stations.

Check out: http://danfinnerty.smugmug.com/Forest-Fires/Station-Fire

And several time lapses here (see eruption of flames around 40 seconds in): http://vimeo.com/6325431
Give them a little time to load.

More Info on Station Fire Meeting

From Town Council:

Regarding the community meeting at the Church of the Nazarene to be held Sept 3rd, it is my understanding from the Supervisor's office that the focus of the info is for communities facing the fire currently, or in the path of the fire, hence those more to the east of Altadena.

This will not be a lessons learned. There is time for that later for Altadena and the county, and it is my understanding that will happen later. So Altadena is welcome to attend, but not sure we will hear information relevant to Altadena at this time.

Fire Capt flew over Altadena yesterday. We are scorched, we are burned, but looks like we are still standing and at least for now, fire has passed us.

Memorial Funds for Fallen Firefighters

For those interested in thanking the fireman, donations are being accepted. The following information is from http://fire.lacounty.gov/FFMemorial.asp

We had thought of combining all donations from The Meadows, but feel that's one more step not needed. If you'd like, email the amount of your donation to me and I'll keep track of a Meadows total.

From L.A. County Fire:

It is with our deepest regret to inform you the media of the Line Of Duty Deaths for Fire Captain Tedmund "Ted" Hall and Firefighter Specialist Arnaldo "Arnie" Quinones. These two members tragically lost their lives when they were overrun by a fast moving fire which approached Fire Camp 16 on the "Station Fire".

Donations are being accepted in their memory at:
F&A Federal Credit Union
"Memorial Fund"
P.O.Box 30831
Los Angeles 90030-9972

There have been three accounts opened to benefit the families of Captain Tedmund "Ted" Hall and Fire Fighter Specialist Arnaldo "Arnie" Quinones. Their untimely death on August 30, 2009 has been a shock for our Department.

Following are the accounts:
Combined Pool Contribution: Account/Member Number 617170
Tedmund "Ted" Hall: Account/Member Number 617171
Arnaldo "Arnie" Quinones: Account/Member Number 617172

Station Fire Community Meeting Tonight

Station Fire Media Release
September 2, 2009, 9 p.m.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Community Meeting

Station Fire Unified Command will be hosting a community meeting in the town of Pasadena tonight, Thursday, September 3, for the purpose of updating the public on the current fire situation and expected actions. (Altadena residents are welcome.)

First Church of the Nazarene
3700 E. Sierra Madre Blvd.
Pasadena, California 91107

7:00 PM

# # #

LA Co Fire: /s/ Dep IC Luke Claus for IC Michael Bryant

USFS: Dep IC (t) Carlton Joseph for IC Mike Dietrich

Glendale Fire: IC Greg Godfrey

Pasadena Fire: IC Martin Johnson

Los Angeles City Fire: IC Greg West

LA Co Sheriff: /s/ Christy Guyovich for IC David Fender

Altadena Art Show This Thursday through Saturday

From Jane Szabo:

As of now, the show is still on.
This card shows times for Thursday, Friday, Sat and Sunday events. I am commited to being there Thursday and Friday nights - and will try to stop in Sat and Sunday....but not sure I can handle being there all the time all four days.

Please come! And sooner may be better. I would love you all to see my new work. :)
Jane

More SCE Info and Wildfire Safety Tips

First, status update on from Town Council regarding power outages in Altadena. Second, tips from SCE regarding power outages in wildfire areas. Please read as it points out we should not be using candles during a power outage given the threat of wildfires.

From Town Council:

- The transmission lines are still in danger

- Edison has a major power outage unrelated to the fire occurred this morning in Montebello, affecting eight thousand residents.

- There may be some sporadic outages in Altadena. We need to get information of where they are. If anyone is experiencing or has knowledge of someone with an outage, please contact Gino Sund at 794-9609.


Wildfire Safety Tips
· With nightfall approaching the threat of electric service interruption could occur at any time in the wildfire areas, SCE reminds its customers to keep flashlights handy in the event of a service interruption.
· Do not rely on candles for lighting during a power outage because they could pose a fire hazard; please use flashlights.
· Do not rely on candles for lighting during a power outage because they could pose a fire hazard; please use flashlights.
· Check on the safety of family members and neighbors, especially those dependent on power for medical equipment.
· If you see downed lines, please call SCE and report it to the police and fire departments immediately. Never touch or try to move a downed power line.
· If possible, stay away from areas severely impacted by the fire damage. Traffic signals could be inoperative, poles and power lines could be blocking streets and utility crews could be in the area making repairs.
· If you are without electrical service in your home or business, leave one light switch in the “on” position to serve as a signal when electrical service has been restored. This will help limit stress on the electrical system when SCE restores service.
· Do not cook indoors with charcoal or other fossil fuels not meant for indoor use. They could create deadly fumes if used indoors.
· Turn off and unplug any unnecessary electrical equipment, especially sensitive electronic equipment.

Edison Power Outage

The power outage scheduled for tomorrow, September 2. has been rescheduled for September 14. You should have received a postcard a few weeks ago with the original outage date. For updates, go to www.sce.com/outage and enter 358489 as the outage number.

Trails Still Evacuated

Not that anyone will want to hike with our current air quality, but please know from the Station Fire Command Center that El Prieto Fire Rd (above the cul-de-sac) and Millard Canyon north of Risinghill Rd remain under mandatory evacuation orders. Chaney Trail and Alzada Dr north of Jaxine Dr also remain under mandatory evacuation orders.

Aerial pics

Sent to me by the La Vina FireSafe Council:

Millard Canyon:
The lower left of the picture shows Chapman Ct, Church Canyon and our water tanks. The fire breaks under the power lines and along the ridges were newly cut or expanded. It appears that some of the upper reaches of Millard Canyon burned, but that otherwise, Millard Canyon seems to have been spared.

Overview:
JPL is at the lower left. The JPL east parking lot is lower middle. La Vina is to the upper right. The Meadows is just above the middle of the picture. Millard Canyon runs between the Meadows and La Vina. El Prieto Canyon runs to the west (left) of the Meadows.

El Prieto Canyon:
The lower right is part of the Meadows. The pink line of trees and shrubs I think is El Prieto Canyon and the coloration is from Phos-Chek. The road, running left to right near the bottom is Gravelia St. I believe the trail you can see to the left of the picture is the popular fire road leading towards Brown Mountain

More Pics from the Fire

Pic from Saturday

Station Fire Crests Little Round Top at approx 4:30 PM Saturday, 8/29/2009

The Meadows is Open!

Sherriffs are checking I.D. and only letting residents back to The Meadows for now.

Welcome Back!

Pics from Saturday

From Sunday afternoon, pics from a Meadows resident. Sorry, I'm sure these are uploading out of order from the description.

The fires west of El Prieto Rd seem to be out (there was one spot of open fire at noon, but by 1:20 PM there was only smoke there). There is a lot of activity (ground crews and airdrops) above La Vina.
837 – view from my backyard ~11:50 AM
840 – view from the trailhead in the lower part of El Prieto Rd (facing west) ~1:20 PM
845 – view from the same point (facing southwest). That’s where I saw the last burning spot around noon.
847 – top of El Prieto Rd ~1:30 PM. Note the burned spot.
864, 867 – view from the vantage point above El Prieto Rd above the end of Risinghill Rd. Taken ~1:45 PM
869, 870, 876 – views from the top of Risinghill Rd. and the trail (facing northeast). Taken ~2 PM.

MFSC Monday Morning

Called the Sherriff this morning at 7:00 a.m. We're still evacuated. Sherriff did not have an estimated time to lift the evacuation.

Talked to a resident on El Prieto who is still in The Meadows. She said that everything looks good. She saw firefighters positioned on El Prieto and Gravelia.

If anyone has other information, please let me know.
thanks,
Meadows FireSafe Council

MFSC Sunday 5:20 p.m.

Hearing several updates from neighbors:
1. Sheriffs may allow us in at 6:00 p.m. or later. (Cheney Trail may not be able to get in through the night.)
2. JPL will be closed on Monday to all but essential personnel.
3. As of 1:16 p.m., a neighbor reported a small fire on El Prieto Canyon. Crews were cutting trees and dumping water on it.
4. Another report of a fire in Millard Canyon. Fire crews were stationed on La Vina side.
5. Several reports of residents being allowed in and not being allowed in. Did hear that the Sheriffs were upset with some residents when they allowed them access for 15 minutes and the residents did not return.
Again, best to check with Sheriffs for when they would lift the evacuation order. I may not have the latest information.
Thanks,
Meadows FireSafe Council

MFSC Sunday Morning Update

I drove over to Lincoln and Loma Alta this morning. Per the Sherriff, no further activity in The Meadows last night. Very smoky outside this morning. Still not allowing people into The Meadows. (Per J. Lopez this morning, we're still evacuated.)

Per a neighbor, all but a skeleton crew of firefighters pulled out of The Meadows at 7:30 p.m. (Not verified with the Fire Department.)

Per a neighbor, the fire did come into The Meadows on the vacant land on the west of Risinghill Road at the top of the road but was extinguished by the flame retardant that was dropped repeatedly over the hill.

Also, per a neighbor, Theo's house at the very top of Risinghill was protected by fire crews.

If anyone has other updates, please email to me.
Thanks,
Meadows FireSafe Council

Looking above La Vina

Looking above La Vina. These pictures were taken between 00:50 and 01:20 from the entrance to the Meadows.

Saturday Pics

From a neighbor who stayed in The Meadows yesterday.
1. taken from the entrance to the Meadows around 6:30 PM
2., 3., & 4 – taken from the trailhead in the lower part of El Prieto Rd. around 7 PM.
5. taken from the observation point above El Prieto Rd. about 7:10-7:15 PM.
6. again, from the trailhead in the lower part of El Prieto Rd.

MFSC Saturday Afternoon Update

The Meadows continues to be under mandatory evacuation. We know of no structures damaged. They were doing plenty of water and chemical drops behind Theo's house at the top of Risinghill and down El Prieto Canyon. Parts of JPL have been closed.

KCAL9.com had a good streaming video from their helicopter that showed The Meadows periodically. Watching the local news and online news seems to be the best way to get updates.

Thanks,
Meadows FireSafe Council

MFSC Saurday Morning Update

Fire crews are now in The Meadows and carefully watching developments in El Prieto Canyon and the ridge north of The Meadows. Water and chemical drops are not happening this morning due to heavy smoke. Maps of all fire hydrants and pools are being given to the fire crews. Please be vigilant of the developments surrounding us.

Thanks,
Meadows FireSafe Council

Station Fire Update Link

Link to Station Fire Update Link:

http://www.inciweb.org/incident/1856/

Station Fire / Meadows Update

(pics from El Prieto Rd perspective)

As we head into the evening, here's some observations about the fire and its impact to The Meadows. Please know this is only observation from neighbors as specific information from a variety of sources has been hard to obtain.

From El Prieto Side: the fire crested a peak northwest of Little Roundtop. (The peak to the northwest visible from the Meadows. Brown Mountain is not from here; it is farther east, farther north, and higher). This still is not immediately threatening to The Meadows. Both water and chemical plane drops were performed which quickly turned dark smoke to white. A chemical drop was also performed down El Prieto Canyon presumably as a precaution. From a perspective at the very top of El Prieto, the fire continues to appear west of us.

From the access to El Prieto: Flames can still be seen from the mountains above La Canada and in the mountainside almost directly north of The Meadows. Again, not immediately impacting us.

From Risinghill: One can see flames at the ridge on the mountains above and in the canyons below the mountains, but again not immediate threat to The Meadows.

A consensus opinion is that since the fire is not immediately threatening homes, it is being allowed to burn to reduce the fuel and quickly followed by water and chemical drops.

Crime: As posted earlier, the Sheriffs are patrolling the neighborhood. Please be vigilant of unusual activity and call the Sherrif (626-798-1131) as we continue to have many unknown cars coming into the neighborhood.

Please let me know of any other information you may have. Again, this is mainly observation from residents of The Meadows.