Found Dog

From a neighbor:

I found a dog on Risinghill. It's a brown little dog with a green collar with a bell. If you know who the dog belongs to please call 626-791-9140.

Rain Statistics

Some folks will be curious about the recent rainfall. Here are the numbers, from unofficial measurements taken at 4520 El Prieto, (elevation 1650'):


Total rain for the storm train from 12/18 thru 12/22: 14.4 inches

Heaviest rainfall days: Wednesday 22 (4.55") and Sunday 19 (4.05")

Year (7/1/10) to date: 20.2 inches (average unknown)



Ray

Filming at Home on Lower Canyon Crest

There's a film shoot at one of the houses on lower Canyon Crest.

Meadows neighbors were delayed on Canyon Crest this morning at around 7:30 when trucks were blocking one of the lanes.  The trucks had cleared later once on the property.

Not sure for how long the filming is planned. 

Careful on Canyon Crest

Hopefully everyone is taking their time going in and out of The Meadows.  Tonight, Canyon Crest was filled with rocks from all the rain we're getting.

And thanks to Public Works for their daily monitoring and clearing of Millard Canyon and Canyon Crest.

Lincoln Ave. Plans in Pasadena

It's been a slow news month here in The Meadows which is probably a good thing.

Saw this notice on Tim's www.Altadenablog.com about a planning meeting happening Wed., Dec. 15, at 6:30 PM at the Northwest Education Center, 2050 Lincoln Ave.

They're going to review the City's plan for new housing options, retail and local businesses.  While this isn't Altadena, most of us travel down Lincoln on a regular basis.

Tried to go to the city's website, but the link didn't work.

I can't make the meeting, but if anyone attends, please let me know what is being planned.

Free Coyote Presentation

Free "Coyotes in our Midst" presentation that will be held at the Arboretum in Arcadia at the end of November. The presenter, Camilla Fox, is an expert on coyotes and on how communities can successfully co-exist with them. Should be helpful to Meadows residents as it will also be helpful in our dealings with other neighborhood wildlife.

Update: Small Terrier on El Prieto

A small black and white terrier has been hanging around the 4300 block of El Prieto.  We think this is the same dog that was seen two weeks ago on Risinghill.  It runs when people have tried to catch it.

Any idea who the owner is?

MFSC Update - On Hold

This year's grant work for trimming and removal of trees is going to be put on hold.

We're running into timing issues for the trimming of non-native trees and the permits for the Oak trees.

So as not to double or triple our efforts and the impact on all homeowners, it makes more sense to get clarity from L.A. County Fire and CA FireSafe Council before we proceed.

Thanks for your patience as we straighten this out.

Two Updates for Sunday Re: Trail Access

On Sunday, November 7th, the fire department will be conducting extensive training exercises at the top of Risinghill Road. They will have at least 4 fire trucks/pumpers and extensive personnel. Please do not be alarmed by the activity.

Additionally, the Forest Service, CORBA, and Friends of El Prieto will be conducting trail work on El Prieto at the same time with numerous volunteers. As it is going to be extremely busy, it would be appreciated if The Meadows neighbors refrained from entering the area at the top of Risinghill Road, and the fire road leading up. The trail crews will be parking on Risinghill and El Prieto.

Stray Dog

This morning at about 10:30, a neighbor saw a small stray dog on the road up to the top of Risinghill. A guy coming down the hill, walking his two dogs, said the little dog was a stray, and he had seen him down on Canyon Crest a few days ago.


Small, maybe 15 pounds, floppy ears, black and white, long hair. Not the dog in the flyer neighbors received a few days ago. He didn't come back down the hill with the guy and his dogs, so maybe he went back up the hill.

Found Dog

The following came to the blog regarding a found dog.  Email me if you have any other information or if this is your dog and I'll connect you.

Black and white wirehair dog, "mall dog", female with blue and white leash found on Lower Canyon Crest.

Tan Lab Found

UPDATE: The dog actually escaped from the neighbor's back yard last night. However, he does now have a pretty fancy collar on, so it'll be easier for the next person to catch him. The dog is definitely a boy.

A few more identifying characteristics: the dog (now on the loose) has an injury to one of his eyes (I think the right one, but am not sure). The collar he now has on is a navy blue-and-bamboo pattern martingale silk bedazzled collar.


A tan Lab with a bad right eye was found running down Canyon Crest in the 4300 block last night at around 9:30.  Neighbors have taken the dog in.  Please let me know if you know or are the owner and I'll connect you with the neighbors.

Rambro Update

From a Meadows neighbor:

This morning, Sunday, October 17th, at 10:15 AM, Joe Clay/Rambro was up at the top of Risinghill Road in full camo gear inside his maroon van. Neighbor at the top of Risinghill immediately spotted him, got into a car and followed him. It is uncertain if he realized he was being followed, as he immediately drove out of The Meadows back towards Lincoln on Canyon Crest. Obviously, he wasn't just out for a nice Sunday drive. Please be aware of his presence in the area and don't hesitate to call Sheriff, Forest Service, and/or Bureau of Land Management.

MFSC Update

The assessments of properties by The Meadows FireSafe Council and L.A. County Fire for the 2010 grant are almost complete.  We have a few more properties to assess.

We've assessed over 80 properties this year for fuel reduction, tree removal and trimming.

In some cases, we have the owner's permission to proceed.  Others who were not home at the time will receive the findings of the assessment in the mail.  Homeowners can decide whether to agree or not agree to the recommendations and will return the assessment to the MFSC.

It's expected that work will begin in the next two weeks and take about five weeks to complete.

The last effort for this grant will be a repeat of fuel reduction on the vacant land in the Spring.

We thank everyone for their enthusiastic participation in this year's efforts.

Missing Person?

This comment was sent anonymously to the blog, so the information is not verified.  If anyone has confirmed information, please let me know.

"We were woken very early (before 7am) by a woman whose 15 year old daughter (African-American named Jalani) is missing. Last seen on canyon crest with a mixed-blood Hawaiian looking 19 year old man. It is rumored he is staying in an empty house for sale or perhaps even the canyon. The sheriffs have been notified but we are asked to keep our eyes open!"

Gushing Water?

Neighbors on Risinghill are hearing about a gusher of water the size of Old Faithful coming out of Millard Canyon last night, Monday,  around 10:00 p.m.

Unconfirmed at this point.  Anyone have any information?

Rambro Update

A cross-posting from other blogs and emails:

Dear Neighbors & Trail Users,


At the risk of invoking "déjà vu," be aware that Joe Clay (aka "Rambro") the hunter / poacher is back... again.

In addition to Clay being up here in the Chaney Trail Neighborhood this morning in his usual camo fatigues and armed with a bow on his motorbike, residents over on El Prieto report that "Rambro" was seen at ~2:30pm yesterday (21 Sept.), dressed in full camo and military style boots, with a "Castro cap" (military style cap), backpack, bow, arrows and knife. He was entering the Forest at the top of El Prieto via the trail to Owen Brown's Grave and the Lincoln Avenue Water Co. tank, adjacent to Angeles Forest.

As most of you know, El Prieto Canyon and vicinity burned in the Station Fire, as did the north slope and ridges above Millard Canyon, which means that Clay was hunting in the USFS Closure Area... or, too close to residences on the edge of the Forest.

Clay has also been exploring up N. Fair Oaks in recent weeks, trying to access the Forest via private property up there near Summer Kids and Zorthian Ranch.

Rambro seems to be conducting "reconnaissance" in this area on his bike, in an attempt to get around local residences and into the Forest.

Steve L. recently asked if it is illegal for Clay to ride his motorbike on local trails. Perhaps the USFS and County Sheriffs can answer that question for us.

At least one El Prieto resident called the Sheriffs yesterday. The Sheriffs responded to the call with two patrol cars, but those vehicles only cruised slowly around the culdesac at the top of El Prieto, then left, without deputies ever getting out or talking to the resident who called. The Sheriffs are not going to catch Clay in the Closure Area, see him setting illegal traps, or firing weapons too close to homes that way.

Altadena Sheriffs tend to arrive after Clay has driven off, or they decline to look for Clay, however briefly, in order to question him. Obviously, Clay is not going to stand around waiting for deputies. Worse, Sheriffs Dispatch up in La Crescenta may not respond at all because they don't know anything about "Rambro." It would be helpful if the Sheriffs worked closer with USFS law enforcement to intercept Clay. Once detained, the USFS and/or CA Dept. of Fish & Game could be called to issue a citation or to arrest Clay, depending upon circumstances.

For those not familiar with Rambro's history that involves poaching, using arson to evade arrest, and a concealed handgun... read the archived article copied last below. Caution is appropriate, take photos of Joe Clay and his vehicles only if you can do so without confrontation.

All we can do is remain vigilant and keep calling the Sheriffs, USFS Dispatch and the CA Dept. of Fish & Game "Cal Tip" hotline every time we spot "Rambro" in our neighborhood or the Forest. (See phone numbers highlighted in red below.) I have been told that he may be driving a newer SUV instead of the old maroon van with black-out windows (CA license #4AGU605).

If you call and get the La Crescenta Sheriffs Station... and they don't know who "Rambro" is... politely ask to be connected with someone at the Altadena Station. Generally, the Altadena Sheriffs know who Clay and about his illegal and dangerous hunting.

As Robert C. said, letting Clay know he is being watched may encourage him to leave our area. If we are lucky, authorities will catch him "in the act" again and we won't see "Rambro" back... ever. Clay gives responsible hunters a bad name.

Thanks to all those who reported Clay's presence to authorities.

More Bear Info

Neighbors at the top of Risinghill Road confirm that there are 2 bears, possibly a 3rd with the 3rd being a cub.

The biggest bear as well as the cub are black, the other is cinnamon colored and the most active and curious of the bunch.

Bears seem to be living in the canyon between the top of Risinghill Road and La Vina. They are very very active, visiting just after sundown and stay most of the night. They have been nightly visitors all summer long.

One morning, said neighbor awoke to find one bear asleep near the car. Bears had been coming up onto the porch so neighbor installed a 'driveway alarm' which can be bought at Harbor Freight for less than $20. They placed the receiver by the front door and when bears trip alarm, it sends a loud, high pitched screech, which sends the bears running away. It has worked beautifully.

Blog postings are correct, bears are very timid and run away when they see a human. We need to keep it that way. And it's true, bears do s**t in the woods. And on my lawn. And on my landing. And my backyard, frontyard, next to my car....


Also, DO NOT leave food or food wrappings in your car. Bears have amazingly sensitive noses. We learned the hard way!

Bear Alert Poster

A poster was developed from neighbors to the East about the sightings of black bears in the foothills.  Here's the content of the poster:

Altadena Foothills


After the 2009 Station Fire burned much of the Angeles National Forest, surviving wildlife took refuge in remaining canyons and streambeds within the Altadena foothills. Wild animals including deer, bobcats, cougars, and black bears are spending more time at lower elevations seeking water, shelter, forage and prey in the chaparral and oak woodland around our homes.

Black bears in our neighborhood

Black bears in our neighborhood have raided bee hives, stolen food out of garbage cans, slept in our lavender, and cooled off in our ponds. While black bears are generally non-confrontational and unlikely to attack without provocation, they are also large, powerful, and unpredictable. Be aware of your surroundings and assume a bear might be nearby, especially at night. If a bear is observed, do not approach it closely or attempt to block its escape routes. It is essential that bears remain wild and afraid of humans. If a bear appears, make a noisy commotion, blast an air horn or car horn and direct bright car headlights at the bear; or turn a high power water stream on the bear, etc. Some neighbors have “shot” bears with paint ball guns (startling the bear and conveniently marking it with non-toxic, brightly colored paint that tastes bad when licked off by the bear). The intent is not to injure a bear, but to frighten it away from people and property. The objective is to make remaining near people, pets and residences unpleasant for the bear.

! A fed bear is a dead bear! !

The California Dept. of Fish & Game no longer relocates problem bears. If a bear poses a public threat or becomes a chronic, destructive nuisance, it will be killed. Your actions may affect a bear's survival.

! Secure garbage cans indoors (inside your house, garage, or a sturdy shed)

! Do not put trash out until the morning it will be picked up

! Separate food garbage from other trash and double or triple bag it to reduce tantalizing odors

! Freeze leftover poultry, rib bones & any odorous food leftovers until pick up day, then dispose in a sealed bag

! Do not leave food on a window sill or a kitchen counter below an open window, especially at night (such as a cooling pie)

! Keep BBQ grills clean and free of meat residues & do not leave food unattended on outdoor tables

! Keep all pet food away from areas the bear might be able to access, including backyards, decks and under porches

! Safeguard small domestic animals, such as chickens, rabbits, guinea pigs, and box turtles

! Pick up fallen & ripe fruits & vegetables that might attract a bear (such as berries, figs, avocados, apples & persimmons)

! Close patio doors and large windows on accessible ground floors and decks at night (screens are not secure!)

! Until the bear leaves our area, stop disposing of fresh food scraps, fruits or vegetables on compost piles or in open bins

! Don't encourage your dog(s) to chase a bear; dogs can be injured or killed and might enrage an otherwise peaceful bear

! Never deliberately feed a bear!

" Help keep all of us, including black bears, safe!

March 2010

Bear Video

Bear Sighting on Rising Hill

From MaryEllen Schoeman:

Here's links to some photos and video I got of the bear on Rising Hill. Is there interest in having someone from Fish and Game come talk to us about how we can keep things safe for us, and for the bear (if he gets too used to people, he could get into trouble)? If there is interest, I will set it up.
 
http://www.flickr.com/photos/maryellen/sets/72157623123668718/
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=axNAm-Pa4y8

Active Bear in The Meadows

Over the past week, a bear has been very active in our neighborhood. 

Last night, he left some evidence (think about it) after turning over trash cans on the 4200 block of Aralia.

He's been seen eating figs on Rising Hill, sitting in the middle of the street on Rising Hill, at the cul-de-sac on El Prieto and turning over trash cans higher up on El Prieto.

Most of the occurrences have been in the middle of the night, but also as early as 9:00 p.m.

If you're able to keep your trash cans in a garage, that would be helpful.  If not, one tip is to freeze any food you're going to throw in the trash and put it in your trash cans the night before pick-up.  That way, the bear can't smell the food.

Just thought I'd post so that everyone can stay safe.

Trash Dumping

We've had several instances lately of trash and furniture being dumped on lower Canyon Crest.

Over the weekend, one Meadows resident witnessed two men starting to dump trash bags.  He was able to get their license plate number, description of the truck, and called the Sheriff.

As a reminder, if you witness someone trashing the canyon, call the Sheriff.  If after the fact, call L.A. County Public Works.  They've been great about responding quickly.

Free Box Spring

Does anyone need a brand new queen size Serta box spring?  It's free.

MFSC Assessment Letters Mailed

Assessment request letters for the Meadows FireSafe Council 2010 grant were mailed out today.  Please watch your mailboxes and let your neighbors know about the upcoming work.

The Meadows Fire Safe Council will be undertaking assessments of properties in 2010. Recommendations will be made by members of the FireSafe Council with input from an L.A. County Forester regarding tree removal, trimming, and other fuel reduction.

If you wish to participate in these assessments, please return one copy of the signed authorization to allow assessment personnel to enter your property for assessment purposes.

Assessments are voluntary and any tree removal and trimming will require a new authorization from you. It is expected that we will have some funds for trimming of trees where appropriate for fuel-reduction. All work is paid for with CA FireSafe grant money.

Bear on Lower Canyon Crest

Be sure to check out the video footage of a bear on Lower Canyon Crest on Tim's www.altadenblog.com

KABC News Report in The Meadows

Here's the press brief filmed in The Meadows on Wednesday.

Today's Press Briefing

Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner was here in The Meadows to talk about fire safety and home inventory.  Much time was spent talking about FireSafe Councils, the efforts made in fuel reduction, tree removal, and clearing of vacant land.

Several television and radio crews shot the event.  Not sure where it may air but will post if I find it.

Thanks to Mrs. Russel for graciously allowing us to shoot the briefing on her property.

Could be the Same Dog?

A Meadows neighbor saw the "Missing Dog Sign" on Canyon Crest. The sign says:  'missing dog; please call 345-9773'.

The neighbor called to let them know she had helped a lady pick up an injured dog on Canyon Crest (on the steep canyon side). The lady said she was visiting a friend in the Meadows. Hopefully her friend will see the message and can call the family and return the dog. I hope he is okay.

Free Cement Chunks

There are chunks of cement available at 4470 Rising Hill.  Free for the taking!

These are great for creating garden walls or walkways. 

Available Cat

From a Meadows neighbor:

There is a very cute cat that lives in a weed patch in the parking lot of my building at work. People (including me) feed it (not sure if it is a boy or girl), and sometimes pet and play with it, but it would definitely be better off in a loving home. This cat is very friendly and mellow, and seems to get along well with a dog someone regularly brings by. If you are interested or have any questions, please email Maya at: krasner2001@hotmail.com. Also, please pass this along to any friends you think might be interested in taking him or her in.

Loose Chihuahua

From a Meadows neighbor:

There was a small tan male Chihuahua running loose on the hill on Canyon Crest tonight. He had no identification and was limping. Upon closer inspection, the injury appeared to be a bite wound. Animal Control took him to get emergency vet care. He will be at the Baldwin Park county facility if his owner is looking for him. I believe they have a 5 day hold period.

Want to be on T.V.?

Insurance Commissioner, Steve Poizner, will be in The Meadows on Wednesday, August 25 at 10:00 a.m. for a press briefing on fire safety and home inventory.

They're looking for someone who will participate in an exercise for taking inventory of your house. The focus is on knowing what you own if you ever needed to file an insurance claim.

Anyone want to participate? Need to know this week.

Thanks,
Greg

Found Dog

When driving down Canyon Crest where the deer usually cross the road, there was a young, frightened tan and white dog. He appears to be a puppy.

Please call (626) 797-0478 if this is your pet.

Scavenger Update

Please see www.altadenablog.com for an update on the scavenger activities in Altadena. These have impacted a resident in The Meadows.

Eaton Canyon Fire Knocked Down

The Los Angeles County Fire Department is reporting that the fire in Eaton Canyon has been knocked down.

You may have seen the numerous helicopters flying over. There was a fire in Eaton Canyon. Here's the update from Carolyn Seitz:

It was contained to approximately 1 acre.

The area will be monitored, likely through the evening.

Search & Rescue crews from Altadena and Sierra Madre are still sweeping the trails to evacuate hikers. Montrose Search & Rescue is on scene and ready to assist.

Traffic controls may be in place to prevent access to the Canyon for the night, and it is being reported by some residents in the President Streets area that some portions of Altadena Drive are blocked to through traffic.

More information will be provided when available.

KTLA in The Meadows

Here's the four episodes shot at my house this morning.  Gayle Anderson did info spots on protecting our houses and home inventories.

 

 

 

 

Update: KTLA Morning Show Thursday

Time slots for the broadcast of Gail Anderson and the KTLA Morning Show crew are tomorrow, Thursday, at 7:15, 8:25, 8:30, and 9:15 a.m.  Then a pre-recorded spot during their 1:00 p.m. news.

Gail will be talking about fire-safety in the foothills, taking inventory of your house and the success of The Meadows FireSafe Council.

Watch for the camera trucks on El Prieto Road.  They're using my house for the segments.
Thanks,
Greg

KTLA in The Meadows Thursday

Gail Anderson from the KTLA Morning Show will be here in The Meadows to talk with L.A. County Fire and Insurance representatives about fire safety, fuel reduction, and brush clearance.

The Meadows and the work of the Meadows FireSafe Council is being held as an example of great fuel reduction and readiness.

Segments are expected to air live at 6, 7 and 8 a.m. with a taped broadcast later in the day at 1 p.m.  Shooting will be at my house.

Altadena Graffiti Removal

From Carolyn Seitz:

Last week, Lieutenant Joe Dempsey distributed information about graffiti removal and about a new page on the Los Angeles County Sheriff's website (www.lasd.org) with information on a "most wanted taggers" list.


The Altadena Sheriff's Station's Detectives are still requesting that you email photos of graffiti you see in Altadena to them.

To email photos and location information for the graffiti you're reporting, the email address is: altadena@lasd.org

To call to report graffiti, you can call the Station number at 626 798 1131. Please understand that our station is undergoing renovation and for that reason, our calls are being routed to the Crescenta Valley Sheriff's station.

Calls may be answered by someone unfamiliar with Altadena or the want of our Gang Detectives to get the information timely, so if you can do it, photos and location info by email may work better.

National Night Out August 3

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

August 3, 2010

What is National Night Out? It is America’s night out against crime!

National Night Out, a unique crime/drug prevention event sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch, is scheduled for Tuesday, August 3, 2010. We cordially invite the Altadena Community to be a part of Altadena Sheriff Station’s 2010 National Night Out.

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT is designed to:
• Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness
• Generate support for, and participation in, Altadena anti-crime programs
• Strengthen neighborhood and law enforcement-community partnerships in Altadena
• Send a strong message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized

Join Altadena Station, California Highway Patrol and Fire Department for BBQ - hot dogs

Sheriff’s Department Displays:
Altadena Station Search and Rescue
Altadena Station Posse
Altadena Station Youth Activities League
Altadena Station Volunteer Groups

WHEN: TUESDAY AUGUST 3, 2010
WHERE: LOMA ALTA PARK EQUESTRIAN CENTER
HOURS: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
For Further Contact Deputy Mike Prince (626) 798-1131 X-2105

Bear Sighting

A Meadows neighbor reported a mid-sized bear galloping across lower Canyon Crest, just south of the hairpin turn on Monday morning.  Seems the bear was enjoying the trash can buffet! It then took off into the brush below Canyon Ridge.

She tried to get a picture, but her camera had been stolen from her unlocked car which was on Canyon Ridge.

So watch out for the bear and lock your car doors!

Reminder: Annual Picnic at Community Garden

The Annual Altadena Community Garden and Resource Fair is this Saturday.

Saturday, July 17, 2010


1:00PM until 6:00 PM

Altadena Community Garden at Loma Alta Park

3330 N. Lincoln Avenue (corner of Palm & Lincoln)

Visit their website at http://www.altadenacommunitygarden.com/

A rare thing for The Meadows

From a neighbor:: Last night, Tuesday, sometime between 10pm and 7am, someone stole two tires (rims and all) off a car parked on the street on the 4100/4200 block of Canyon Crest Rd.

Time to be watchful.

Another Lost Dog

From a neighbor on Rising Hill:

"There is a lost dog on the trail at and around Little Round Top. The dog appears to be a rottweiler or similar breed, colors are tan and dark brown or black. I tried to get him to come to me but he's very skittish; was barking up a storm this morning. He looks very familiar, I think he may belong to one of my neighbors on Risinghill Road, but I can't be certain. Any assistance is finding this dog's home and getting him there would be most appreciated."

Trail Work Has Begun Around La Vina

Work has started on the trails around La Vina.  Here's the County's plan:

The County of Los Angeles is planning to conduct the necessary fieldwork to refine the layouts of the trails and to create the legal descriptions necessary to have the easements transferred from the La Viña Homeowners’ Association (HOA) to the County of Los Angeles and recorded as required in the Court’s final judgment. Sapphos Environmental, Inc. and Bellfree Contractors, Inc., a trail design and construction company, will conduct field visits to refine the trails layouts from July 7 through July 16, between 7:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Representatives from the trail advocates and HOA may also participate in these field visits. Brush clearing may also need to be conducted on the proposed trail during these times. Any use of noise-generating motorized equipment for brush clearing will be conducted between 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM.


Once the proposed trail routes are marked, on one day between July 18 and July 24, Sapphos Environmental, Inc. and the County of Los Angeles will walk the proposed trail layout with representatives from the HOA and trail advocates’ plaintiffs to give all parties an opportunity to observe the trails’ layout and identify any concerns. After the walk is completed, the County of Los Angeles will finalize the trail layout. Any unresolved issues between the parties will be brought to the judge for resolution.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Works will then survey the trails from July 19, 2010 through August 13, 2010, from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Once the fieldwork is completed, the County of Los Angeles will prepare a legal description of the trail easements. The Office of County Counsel will then submit to the judge a statement for the status conference scheduled for September 22, 2010.

Rainfall Statistics

Thanks to our own Meadows meteorologist, Ray, for this helpful information:

Rainfall Summary for July 2009 - June 2010

(Measurements taken at elevation 1650 feet)

Total rainfall 29.35”
Wettest month 9.40” in January
Wettest week 8.85” in week of Jan. 17-23
Wettest days:

• 2.95” on Jan. 18, 2010
• 3.30" on Feb. 6, 2010
• Millard Creek flooded both days

Comparison to prior years (ending in June ...)

• 2009 17.25”
• 2008 25.20”
• 2007 7.40”
• 2006 25.45”
• 2005 61.60”

Florecita Farms Break-in

At approximately 1:30 PM Thursday, a home at the top end of Florecita Drive was burglarized. (Florecita Farms is the neighborhood just to the south of The Meadows.)

An XBox and computer were taken. The suspects are two tall, thin, young (age 17 to 20), African American males, dressed in white t-shirts and khaki shorts. A police report was filed.

Please exercise caution and report any suspicious activity. It is thought that that suspects entered the neighborhood from Canyon Crest.

Community Meeting Regarding Burglaries

THE ALTADENA SHERIFF’S STATION INVITES YOU TO ATTEND A COMMUNITY MEETING

THURSDAY, JULY 15TH AT 7:00 PM

AT THE CHARLES W. ELIOT MIDDLE SCHOOL AUDITORIUM

2184 N. LAKE AVENUE, ALTADENA

This year, we have seen an increase in the number of burglaries and thefts

occurring in your neighborhood. We would like the opportunity to talk with

you about this criminal activity and what can be done to abate it.

Specifically, we plan to discuss:

- How, where and when these crimes are occurring.

- What you can do to protect yourself and your neighbors.

- How you can help us prevent these crimes from occurring.

We sincerely hope that you will be able to attend. Because of the subject matter, we ask that you please do not bring children to the meeting. We realize that your time is valuable, but we believe the issues to be discussed at this meeting are important to the community and we thank you in advance for any effort you can make to attend.

If you have questions, contact the Altadena Sheriff’s Station
Detective Bureau Commander, Lieutenant Joseph Dempsey (626)
798-1131 ext. 2131.

Anyone Missing Glasses?

A pair of eyeglasses were found on Risinghill. Are they yours? If so, comment or email me and I'll connect you with the person who found the eyeglasses. 

Upper Arroyo / El Prieto Brush Clearance

The Meadows FireSafe Council was able to reach the contact at Pasadena Department of Water and Power regarding brush clearance behind the homes on Canyondell and El Prieto.

The City had run out of funds for the fiscal year ending today, so the brush clearance was not performed by May 1 as usual.

Funds have been allocated for the new fiscal year starting tomorrow.  Once those funds come in, the City will perform the brush clearance.  That should be in the coming months.  They also have enough funds to perform the brush clearance again next year before May 1.

Humboldt lillies in Bloom

This gorgeous shot of blooming Humboldt Lillies was sent in a few weeks ago by a Meadows neighbor.  Sorry for the late post.

Annual Altadena Community Garden Annual Picnic

You are cordially invited to The Altadena Community Garden Annual Picnic and Resource Fair!
Saturday, July 17, 2010, 1:00PM until 6:00 PM
Altadena Community Garden at Loma Alta Park
3330 N. Lincoln Avenue (corner of Palm & Lincoln)

Children under 5 are free. Children 6 – 12 - $4.00 each
Other guests are $7 in advance---$8 at the door

Each Garden Member and associate brings a dish and attends for free with a guest. If your guests exceed four, consider bringing more!!!

We encourage homemade, garden grown dishes.

Great food, friends, fun, garden tours, garden workshops, a raffle and great music!

Visit their website at www.altadenacommunitygarden.com

Station Fire L.A. Times Article - Failure to Order Air Drops

An interesting article from L.A. Times and the Congressional inquiry into the Station Fire:

http://www.latimes.com/news/la-me-station-fire-20100616,0,210197.story?page=2&track=rss

Late Spring Blooms

Amish sent a link to pictures he's taken around The Meadows of late Spring blooms.  Beautiful!

Check out these great pics at:

  http://www.flickr.com/photos/amishtravel/sets/72157624243008064/

Brush Clearance Begins

Brush clearance and fuel reduction performed under the 2010 Meadows FireSafe grant began today.

The crews began at the top of Risinghill.  They will continue through the neck of land towards El Prieto and then return to the east side of Risinghill.  It is expected to take 12-15 calendar days and will begin at 7:00 a.m. each morning.

The crews mentioned that their work may stir some rattlesnakes causing them to relocate.  Meadows residents should be cautious.

Updated: Art Break and 3-Kilometer Run/Walk

Several Meadows residents lead the Altadena Arts Council which will be hosting an Art Break Run/Walk and Concert on Saturday, June 12 at Farnsworth Park.

The 3-kilometer Run/Walk begins at 8:00 a.m.

The festival runds from 9:30 - 7:00 p.m.

The Altadena Arts Council looks forward to a great turnout for the event by Meadows residents and their families. Volunteers would be appreciated. Time running out to register for the Altadena ARTBreak 3k Run/Walk for the Arts. Go to http://www.altadenaartscouncil.org/ to do so. Questions, call (626) 797-5798.

Adoptable Sydney

"Meadows neighbor looking for a new home for our loving dog, Sydney. Sydney is a 3 year old, beautiful mixed breed dog of Shepard, Chow and Golden Retriever. He has a very loving and sweet temperment, and is perfect with our 5 month old son and other children.

He follows his master around with love in his eyes. He knows basic commands including sit, down and "no."

He is healthy and has had no health problems. He is truly a wonderful family pet and is VERY adoptable.

We wish to find an excellent new home for Sydney via friends and neighbors (not a shelter, which can be traumatizing to a dog). Please email Bonnie at bsglassco@gmail.com for more information and to meet Sydney."

Brush Clearance to Begin Week of June 7

The Meadows FireSafe Council will begin annual brush clearance efforts starting as early as the week of June 7, 2010.

Gothic will again be the contractor performing the work starting in the neck of land above the cul-de-sac at Canyon Crest, continuing above the houses on Risinghill and on to properties above Millard Canyon.

As a reminder, this is fuel reduction on mostly vacant lands.  Property owners are still required to perform their own brush clearance adjacent to their houses.

Continuing efforts for assessment of individual properties will begin later in the year.  The Meadows FireSafe Council expects to remove any additional trees, bushes, etc. requested by the homeowner later in the Summer.

A second reminder regarding the new alert system.  Letters to all homeowners were sent several weeks ago along with signs posted in the neighborhood.  Any homeowner interested in adding their emails or phones to the alert system needs to complete the form and return to the FireSafe Council.

Junk Hauling Trucks Reported Stealing Property

From a Meadows neighbor:

"You may have noticed a proliferation of Junk Haul trucks parked around. There are several big, ratty looking wood plank sided trucks parked around. They are essentially the “Mother Ships” for smaller pickups that cruise the neighborhoods looking for about anything that can be hauled off, whether the owner wants it hauled off or not.

When they find a haul, they haul it off and unload it into the “Mother Ships.”

I’ve seen these “Mother Ships” on Altadena Drive just east of Lincoln and on Woodbury just west of Fair Oaks.  I’ve seen the smaller trucks cruising around as well.

I have already been victimized. They came up to my property and dug up around 25 feet of old 6” diameter pipes that were exposed when all the brush around them burned during the Station Fire.

When I drove up my driveway I must have surprised them because they ran from around the small hill at the top of my drive way with several pipes, jumped into their pickup and drove off.

Amazingly, I saw those same pipes in the “Mother Ship” on Woodbury later that day.

I notified the sheriff’s office and they came out and took a report.

Keep watch. If you see small pickups with junk in them cruising around, I recommend you notify the sheriff immediately. They will take any metal, junk or not, that they can remove. Beware!"

I asked the neighbor the outcome of contacting the Sheriff:

"They did not make an arrest. There was no one in the truck. The trucks are parked on the street as repositories. The sheriff checked his computer records and got the address of the owner of the truck
He did say he would go talk to the owner.

The smaller pickup that was the original conveyance of the stolen pipes is nowhere to be seen.  Captain Steve McLean, new Captain of the Altadena Sheriff Station, said he was VERY interested and was going immediately to view the “Mother Ship” on Altadena Dr. just east of Lincoln. So, the authorities have been alerted. Let’s see what happens."

Some of the Forest is Reopening

From a Meadows neighbor:  Some of the forest is being reopened including Millard Canyon.  See the following link for details:

http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/angeles/news/2010/news-2010-05-25-station-fire-areas-open.shtml

Art on Millionaire's Road, June 5

Here's another event from our growing art scene in Altadena:

"Art on Millionaire's Row"


Presented by The Friends of the Altadena Library
Saturday, June 5
10 A.M. - 6:00 P.M.
At the Altadena Library, 600 E. Mariposa, Altadena, CA.

A day full of fun for the whole family!
Free Event

A Juried Art festival featuring local artists, great food, entertainment and a hands on art project installation for kids! Don't miss this fun family event - come out and meet the local artists of Altadena! Great food provided by local restaurants. A portion of all proceeds will benefit the Altadena Library.

For more information call the library at 626-798-0833, or email mtkomai@altadenalibrary.org

Aveson School Presentation

I attended the Aveson School Meet and Greet this evening at Loma Alta Park.

A presentation was given regarding their mission, curriculum, demographics and prospective plans for expanding into the commercial building at Lincoln and Altadena.

Their charter includes focusing on the northwest Altadena area and they emphasized wanting to be part of the community.

A Q&A was held also. Most common discussion was the timing of "drop-off" times and its impact on traffic. Caution was raised as to the speed at which drivers come down Lincoln.

Also discussed was its proximity to George's Liquor store. Points were made that the owner's of George's are responsible business owners and that Odyssey Charter has not experienced any issues.  The owner of George's also pointed out that he has owned the business for 23 years with no incidents.

Neighbors were asked for input in how Aveson can be part of the community.  It was mentioned that the area is known for nature, hiking, and equestrian facilities.  Also raised was the number of senior citizens who could be involved in the discussion with students.

Overall, those attending appeared to be very supportive of Aveson occupying the space.

More information about the school can be found at http://www.aveson.org

Reminder of Aveson Meet and Greet

A reminder of the meet and greet with Aveson Charter school tonight at Loma Alta Park at 7:00 p.m.
They're considering occupying the commercial building at Altadena Drive and Lincoln.

Aveson Charter Meet & Greet for Altadena / Lincoln Building

The Aveson Charter School is interested in the property at the corner of Lincoln and Altadena. This is an exciting prospect for all of us. Plenty information here about the potential and an invitation for a meet and greet scheduled for next Thursday, May 20, 2010 at 7 pm. Festivities will be held at the Loma Alta Park on Lincoln Avenue, north of Altadena Drive.

Here's the full message:

Subject: Join Us at the Aveson Neighborhood Meet & Greet!

Hello from Aveson Charter Schools! Some of you we have already had the pleasure of getting to know and some we are still looking forward to meeting! For those who may be wondering who we are, Aveson is a small, student-centered K-12 charter school in the Pasadena Unified School District, located at 1919 Pinecrest Drive.

In case you missed the announcement made in earlier letters that we broadcast through the neighborhood 'listserve', our academy is anticipating moving it's upper grades to 575 W. Altadena Drive. It’s a new commercial building currently under construction at the northeast corner of Altadena Drive and Lincoln Drive, located diagonally across from George's Liquor Store. We are working in concert with the Pasadena Unified School District, Rita Hadjimanoukian, field representative for Supervisor Michael Antonovich, the owners of the property and the neighbors to ensure that this location is good for the school and good for the community.

We are a unique public school with a unique vision. Aveson Global Leadership Academy graduates are uniquely prepared for life’s road ahead. With an API score of 761, we are thrilled to send our seniors off, armed with 21st century learning skills and the college-readiness they need to be successful and productive adults. The building at Lincoln and Altadena would provide the perfect space to support our project-based learning curriculum. Students will have learning space in classrooms as well as the individual work and project spaces to explore and develop their own interests. Our students are truly social entrepreneurs! In fact, Aveson is considering one or two campus-based, teacher-managed businesses that will be open to the public as a part of our students’ daily learning experience! This offers the students a uniquely relevant opportunity to develop the skills and acquire the experience they need to learn about business, first-hand. It is also designed to bring value to the neighborhood by providing products and services that mean the most to the community. Some ideas are:

· Coffee Shop (coffee, pastries, sandwiches, salads etc)
· Yogurt and Smoothie Stand
· Dinners to Go (healthy meals which can be finished at home)

We are also being pro-active with respect to the environmental impact -- both pro and con. By neighboring Odyssey Charter School, Aveson and Odyssey will be able to share resources and solutions. The existence of these two academic organizations in close proximity may also serve to gentrify this area; bringing a positive influence and productive energy. We are taking steps to understand and mitigate the concerns that may arise such as traffic, parking, and the ramifications of our school's proximity to the nearby liquor store.


We welcome your questions and input and would like to invite you all to join us at our Neighborhood Meet and Greet event, scheduled for next Thursday May 20, 2010 at 7 pm. Festivities will be held at the Loma Alta Park on Lincoln Avenue, north of Altadena Drive.

For more information about our school please visit www.aveson.org, email us at aveson@aveson.org or call us at 626-797-1440.

Yours truly,
Lisa Gerr
Director, Community Outreach Team
Aveson Charter School

Emergency Notification System

Everyone in The Meadows should be receiving a letter from the Meadows FireSafe Council introducing a new emergency notification system for our neighborhood.

This is not the County's reverse 911 system.  This is specific to The Meadows.

The notification system is voluntary and will notify residents via phone, text or email should the FireSafe Council need to communicate to the residents.

Again, please watch for your letter and if interested send in your contact information.

Lower Canyon Crest Blocked by Tree Removal

The removal or trimming of an Oak tree is blocking Canyon Crest Rd.

Earlier this afternoon, I came up on the downed tree.  The owners of the house (I'm assuming they're the owners) directed me onto their driveway and around the tree.

Now, at 5:30 p.m., I've received two calls from neighbors who can't get in or out of The Meadows.  One stated that the traffic was backed up.

Not sure if the owners are still directing the traffic.

I called the Sherrif to come and assist.

Bee Removal?

A neighbor on Canyon Crest has a bee swarm in the front yard and is having trouble finding someone today to remedy it.  Any resources out there?

Update on Trails

Some input from a Meadows resident about the status of the trails:

"An April 10th posting on the Meadows blog asked about trails in the burn area. Please advise readers that according to the US Forest Service, an Angeles Forest Closure Order issued in September 2009 closed the entire Station Fire burn area through SEPTEMBER 30, 2010. A copy of the order may be found here: http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/angeles/orders/StationFireRecoveryOrder-01-09-08.pdf




A call to the USFS local office (626-574-1613) confirmed that the above order remains in effect, and is subject to extension. Only residents or owners who reside WITHIN THE BURN AREA, government officials, or persons/organizations that have been issued permits by the USFS are allowed in the burn area. Areas off-limits include upper/lower El Prieto, Millard, and Brown mountain. The USFS and Sheriff continue to regularly patrol both on land and by air; large penalty and possible jail time imposed on violators. Readers may find more information here:

http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/angeles/

Current Closures

Angeles Forest Closure Orders

New Altadena Ale House

Not Meadows related, but fun for Altadena:

Altadena has a new ale and wine house. It is on Fair Oaks, just south of Ventura (2329 N. Fair Oaks).
It replaces the old beer pub just across from the cemetery.

Altadena Ale House, Juda and Gail Casburn are the new owners –this just opened up. It is a lot nicer with the work they’ve done and getting better – still work in progress, but selling beer and wine with a smile. They are staying with the English pub theme.

Juda and Gail have been long time Altadena residents and former owners of Lucky Baldwin’s' in Pasadena.

Altadena & Lincoln Possible Tenants

Aveson Charter School has expressed interest in taking over the entire site for their charter school.


Aveson wants to offer one or two campus-based, teacher-managed businesses that will be open to the public as a part of Aveson’s students’ daily learning experience.

From their brochure:

….This offers the students a uniquely relevant opportunity to develop the skills and acquire the experience they need to learn about business, first-hand. It is also designed to bring value to the neighborhood by providing products and services that mean the most to the community. Some ideas are:

· Coffee House (coffee, pastries, sandwiches, salads etc)

· Yogurt and Smoothie Stand

· Dinners to Go (healthy meals which can be finished at home)

Aveson realizes there are some environmental impacts such as traffic which need to be planned for and mitigated. They are prepared to stagger start and end times of the school day so there is less than significant impact on the neighborhood.

They are looking forward to hearing feedback from the community at an upcoming "meet and greet" (date to be announced soon).

For more information about Aveson school please visit www.aveson.org, email us at info@aveson.org, or call Kate Bean, Executive Director (626) 797-1440.

Altadena Town Council will invite Aveson to a future meeting to share their plans.

Another Lost Dog

Believe me, I don't mind these postings - just curious why we've had so many lost animals here in The Meadows?

Here's the latest:

"found a lost terrier - female - small - on Aralia rd. - if anyone wants to claim her - call me at 626 665 4443 - ask for Sonny"

Thanks Sonny!

Trail Work Group?

I had a request on the blog asking if anyone would be interested in forming a trail work group?

If interested, just comment to this post with your name, email and phone.  I won't publish that information, but will send a separate email to connect everyone.

Questions about Trail Work

Two comments/questions posted to the blog.  Any info?

"Does anyone know who has been working on the El Prieto trail? The mugwort and horehound is all ripped up."


"The trail work that was done butchered about 10 Humboldt lillies. I found them today either uprooted or topped. I am really sad aboput this. I hope some education can be managed. Does anyone know how to contact those volunteers?"

JPL Open House May 15 & 16

JPL Open House


The 2010 JPL Open House will take place on Saturday and Sunday, May 15 and 16, 2010, 9am-5pm both days.

Jet Propulsion Laboratory's Open House

This popular event celebrates JPL's accomplishments with exhibits and demonstrations about the Laboratory's ongoing research and space exploration. Many of the Lab's scientists and engineers are on hand to answer questions about how spacecraft are sent to other planets, how scientists utilize space technologies to explore Earth and how researchers are searching for planets beyond the solar system.

The Open House is a fun and educational experience for children too, with special hands-on activities designed for kids. Admission and parking is free.

The following items are not permitted at this NASA/JPL Event: weapons, explosives, incendiary devices, dangerous instruments, alcohol, illegal drugs, pets, segways, and all types of skates including skateboards. No bags, backpacks or ice chests are allowed, with the exception of small purses and diaper bags.

Questionable Behavior at Open House

A neighbor and her real estate agent reported that two men were intimidating the agent at her open house last Sunday.  One man tried to corner the agent while another man was scoping out one of the rooms.  They were asking meaningless questions about termites in the house.  The agent was able to get them out of the house, but the experience was scary.

There description is as follows: "They are both in the early or mid 40's. Middle eastern accent. short hair, spiked on top. One is shorter. The other is heavier with some facial hair. They both wore jeans and t-shirts."

Did anyone see any suspicious behavior last Sunday?

Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation

Thanks to Jane, I've added a section in the right-hand margin of the blog for additional wildlife rescue and rehabilitation organizations.

Please note that not all organizations handle all animal types, so best to contact them first.

Question About Trails

Anyone  have some input to this question that was posted to the blog?

"When will the trails that go up to Millard Canyon, Upper and Lower El Preito trails and Brown Mountain (be opened)?  The trails start next to JPL at the large parking lot next to the JPL entrance. There is a big sign that says the trails are closed since the fires. Does anyone know when they will be opened to walk or who to call to check?"

Filming on Canyon Crest Sun. & Mon.

I heard from a neighbor on lower Canyon Crest that he received notice of planned filming at 3720 Canyon Crest.  Prep work will start Sunday, April 11 and filming on Monday, April 12.

This is the second time this year that The Meadows was not included in the notification as required by code restrictions that were added several years ago.

After talking to a very uncaring production person, I talked to Supervisor Antonovich's office who had Film L.A. contact me.  He stated it was an oversight on their part.  I reminded him that we had a similar conversation in February. He is exploring some way to ensure that we are notified in the future, however, they don't seem to have a working process in place to guarantee that.

They're filming a commercial.  Hopefully it won't be too inconvenient for us.

Two Lost Dogs

From MaryEllen, a couple of lost dogs in her yard.  Do these belong to anyone?

Injured Bird

From a Meadows Neighbor:

"I am caring for an injured bird that crashed into a neighbor's window and landed in their pool.


I am 95% sure that this is one of our local wild parrots....but in the 5% chance that this is someone's escaped pet..."

If this is a pet, please identify the characteristics of the bird and I'll make the connection to The Meadows neighbor.

Missing Gray Tabby

From a neighbor on El Prieto:  

"Do you know of anyone who has seen my cat? It's a gray tabby, but it didn't have a flea collar. An El Prieto neighbor says that a tabby was hit by a car in the neighborhood.


Trying to determine if anyone has or if that cat that was hit was ours."

Any info?

4328 Canyon Crest Needs Some Love!

As you know, I rarely publish anything about real estate on this site as I want it more about the goings-on in The Meadows. But I'm making an exception here.

This is not my listing. I just think there might be friends or family Meadows residents who would jump at the chance of moving here and may not know about this house.

So here's the info.  If you know of someone interested, please have them contact me.

4328 Canyon Crest is a well-priced home at $499,000. It's not getting the attention it deserves. Not sure why as it's a very sweet house.

The living room has a fireplace with mantel and beautiful oak hardwood floors throughout.

Three well-sized bedrooms are light and bright, one of them with views of the mountains.

The kitchen is large with lots of cabinets for storage, Corian counter tops and a kitchen dining area.

A grassy, tree-shaded backyard and a very nice front yard complete this home which is move-in ready.

Other features include copper plumbing, a new security system, stainless steel stove and microwave, garbage disposal and a newer roof, a newer driveway and garage with automatic door opener.

The Hills are Alive....

Thanks to Ray Backes for these pics of our surrounding hills.  Looks like nature is fast restoring our greenery after the fires.

Lupines flourish amid burnt tree skeletons.

Another patch of lupines.

Wild cucumber (manroot) vines over burnt scrub Oak

Laurel-leaf Sumac. Hot burning but quick regrowing.

Burnt Chemise sprouting anew.

The Meadows, Altadena blanketed in green.

Fastest re-growing shrub - Pepper tree.

Burglary Suspects Arrested

Another story from Pasadena Star News.  Haven't heard of any issues in The Meadows, but this has been an ongoing story for Altadena.

Sheriff's deputies arrest 8 suspects in Altadena burglaries

Posted: 03/18/2010 07:33:59 AM PDT

Sheriff's deputies have arrested eight men whom they believe are responsible for a spike in burglaries around Altadena last month, according to Sgt. Danny Robinson with the sheriff's Altadena Station.

The eight men are suspected of burglarizing homes, businesses and vehicles around Altadena.

Two of the men arrested are gang members suspected of working together, but the other cases are being treated separately, Robinson said.

The rate of burglaries during the first two weeks of March has dropped 45 percent since the same time last month - a drop that Robinson attributes to the recent arrests.

Read more: http://www.pasadenastarnews.com/news/ci_14697183#ixzz0ieFyNGN1

Town Council Considers Restricting Parking

I don't usually post general Altadena news, but thought this would be interesting to The Meadows.

From the Star News:
Altadena considers restricting overnight parking

Posted: 03/18/2010 07:34:56 AM PDT

The Altadena Town Council is considering a proposal to restrict the parking of oversized vehicles such as RVs, large boats and buses, according to council chairman Gino Sund.

Residents would have to have a permit to park oversized vehicles overnight on the streets of Altadena. The council is formulating the proposal and considering exceptions for people who have visitors from out of town, especially for the Rose Bowl.

Residents have complained to the council that people from out of town are parking their RVs in their neighborhoods and moving them every three days, Sund said.

Last year the council successfully restricted overnight parking of commercial vehicles over 10,000 pounds, such as big rigs.

Read more: http://www.pasadenastarnews.com/news/ci_14697186#ixzz0ieFFoNN6

Any Update on Stressed Cat?

A while back I posted about a young silver tabby cat in distress on El Prieto. It had managed to put it's left front leg through the flea collar it was wearing, so that the collar was around the cat's neck and shoulder.


Has anyone seen that cat lately? Can you tell me whether it's still alive, and whether it still has the same problem? A neighbor and I have been setting a trap to try to catch it (to help it) but haven't seen it in a while and would appreciate knowing whether it is still in trouble.

Thanks much.
Joe Shearer
4382 El Prieto Road
626-794-2437

USFS Listening Session

The U.S. Forest Service will host a listening session regarding the Cobb Estate and related trails, Mar 27th, 1-3PM at Alt. Community Center. The USFS is trying to put logs across some trails to keep public on original County-USFS trails.


Some of the public are not happy with that and are pushing back since they feel the trails in place reflect original trails dating back decades.

Also the issue of signage is a hot button

Relay for Life Looking for Meadows Team

The American Cancer Society's Relay for Life is happening at Loma Alta Park May 15 & 16.

Teams from different Altadena neighborhoods are forming.

Anyone interested in leading a Meadows team?

Let me know and I'll get the contact information to you.

Millard Canyon Restoration Project Update

From Mike Hickman on Lower Canyon Crest:

Hi All,


Some of you may have wondered what has become of the MCCP in recent months. Well, there is the weather, and then there is the weather (there have been a few other issues as well, but I won't go into them here). And now, back to the weather: as some of you may know, the rains during the past few months have caused massive water flow in Lower Millard.

Twice last month the bridge at the hairpin turn has washed out causing some real headaches for the Public Works Dept. and residents of the meadows. At times Millard Creek has crested between 6 and 14 feet above normal (depending on the width of the canyon channel). This condition has drastically altered the character of the streambed and in some sections it has changed the course of the stream.

Virtually all the areas we had performed volunteer work removing invasives have been washed away, as were the areas we had intended to work in the future. Most of the soil has washed away, leaving bedrock and gravel beds which have not seen the light of day for many, many years. Several trees along the stream were also washed away making the streambed area much wider. All of the thick infestations of Himalayan Blackberry, Cape Ivy, and Eupatorium are gone. There are a few tenacious blackberry canes still clinging to some of the banks upstream and some healthy Cape Ivy patches on some of the upslopes of the canyon, but essentially, much of the restoration work that would have taken years of volunteer days to accomplish has been done by Mother Nature doing a bit of her own "housecleaning".

It appears to me that a much healthier "environmental situation" now exists which should greatly benefit the many aquatic species that inhabit the stream, as well as the various faunal and avian species that depend on the area.

In the 15 years I have lived here and hiked the canyon I have never seen such remarkable change. This makes one reflect on all our meager, well intentioned efforts at "restoration".

Anyway, I thought some of you might like to know about the current situation. We plan on organizing an informational hike into the canyon within the next few weeks for those who would like to view these changes. I will keep you posted regarding the date and time.

Regards,

Mike Hickman

Sheriff Station Advisory

Lieutenant Steve McLean at the Altadena Sheriff's Station has asked that the following advisory be posted :

Altadena continues to experience a high number of burglaries and thefts from vehicles. You are your own best defense.

Please do not leave your vehicle without checking to make sure that there are no cell phones, MP3 players, GPS devices, Bluetooth devices, expensive sun glasses, wallets, handbags, computers, PDA's, satchels, backpacks, briefcases, currency or coins visible, and do not walk away from your vehicle without confirming that you've locked the door to at least slow down the person who wants what you've left visible in your vehicle.

Every day, people are calling the Sheriff's Station asking to make a report because they've now been victims themselves.

Please encourage everyone you know to park vehicles in garages and to lock up - out of sight - any and everything that will give criminals a reason to open the door or to smash your windows to take the gifts you've left for them.

Your vehicles aren't safe even if they're parked in your driveway.

These criminals span all age groups from teens to older adults and if you find yourself still saying to yourself that it won't happen to you, guess again . . .

Want to talk to people who have been victims? They also thought it couldn't happen to them.

LOCK IT OR LOSE IT!

Stay vigilant. Make sure you protect yourself and your family.

Filming on Lower Canyon Crest

A Subaru commercial was filmed today on lower Canyon Crest.

fyi- filming is actually restricted on Canyon Crest from Lincoln to Aralia. About ten years ago, a movie was being filmed at the hairpin turn and everyone in The Meadows was stopped from going in and out while the filming took place.

A group of us met with the L.A. Film Board and L.A. County.  The restrictions are as follows:

1. Affected residents must be notified two days in advance.  This includes ALL Meadows residents.
2. Personal vehicles of cast and crew are not permitted to park on area streets.
3. Filming is prohibited on Canyon Crest from Lincoln to Aralia.
4. Production companies must remove all trash, food, etc.
5. Smoking is prohibited.
6. An EIDC monitor (not sure what EIDC stands for) must be present at all times to ensure compliance.

Luckily, the filming didn't seem to impact us.

I talked to County and the Film Board.  The Film Board apologized for its oversight.  The production manager also called and apologized.

So, info for the future should we ever need to pursue it again.

Cat in Distress on El Prieto

From an El Prieto neighbor:

"Does anyone know the owner of a beautiful young silver/grey tabby cat that lives near the middle of El Prieto Road?

 It's managed to put it's left front leg through the flea collar it's wearing, so that the collar is now around the cat's neck and shoulder. It looks very tight and the animal has to walk without using the front leg.

It's obviously in extreme discomfort and probably peril. It's been that way for at least 2 weeks. I've seen it twice, again yesterday, and haven't been able to lure it close enough to capture

It's obviously an outdoor cat, and I've got a feeling somebody around here owns it, but doesn't realize the shape it's in. This poor thing may be permanently crippled already, and may die without help. Please keep an eye out for it, and help it if you can. "

Update to Storm Debris Flow

From Carolyn Seitz:

As of 11 am today, the following information is being provided by Incident Command for the coming storm:


Rainfall is still being anticipated at 1 to 2 inches in the foothill areas with rain expected to begin between late this afternoon and early this evening.

Thunderstorms are also possible, between the late evening hours and early Saturday morning. Thunderstorms have the potential to produce greater rainfall amounts in shot periods of time.

There are no evacuation orders in place for Altadena, except that Millard Campground continues to be closed.

There are no road closures in effect for Altadena except from the Chaney Trail gate into the National Forest area.

The debris basins and inlets continue to be monitored. In some areas, the County crews continue to remove debris or loose materials where they can do it safely, but the heavy equipment will be removed from the streambeds and drainages before the rain begins.

For those of us who have friends and family in La Canada/Flintridge and La Crescenta, there are evacuation orders in place for portions of La Canada/Flintridge and La Crescenta.

The Sheriff's Department has a command post set up at Descanso and has extra resources available to patrol the evacuated areas and will continue to do risk assessment to make sure they keep these areas secure.

The Department of Public Works is also working diligently to put additional K-rail in place to direct mud and debris flows from areas with the greatest risk for impact.

More information will be provided when it is available.

The County agencies - Fire Department, Department of Public Works and the Sheriff's Department - are set up for management of this event and have additional personnel already on hand.

Stay safe and be prepared.

Carolyn

Update on Incoming Rain

From Carolyn Seitz, our wonderful liaison to the Sheriff's Department:

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Works has released information on the storm expected to arrive in our area around 6 pm Friday, February 19.


The National Weather Service is predicting rainfall of 1 to 2 inches in the foothill areas between Friday afternoon and Saturday morning, with a slight chance of thunderstorms Friday night and early Saturday morning that may produce higher rainfall amounts.

The mud and debris flow alert reminds us all that we should anticipate that mud and debris may flow down the canyons below the burn areas, in the watercourses and streams. In Altadena, it means that there is still a potential for impact on Canyon Crest.

The County continues to prepare, and will be monitoring the debris basins during the storm, and as many of you are aware, will continue to clean the basins and inlets, before, during and after the storm.

There is no evacuation anticipated for Altadena, except that the Millard Campground area remains closed.

There are no road closures in Altadena except the existing closure at the Chaney Trail Gate.

If you're interested in seeing the mud and debris flow predictions - the "mudcast" as it's being called, you can find the information at this location: http://dpw.lacounty.gov/wrd/forecast/file/mud4cast.pdf

As always, stay safe and stay prepared.

Power Out Again

From the Edison Outage Center:

City : ALTADENA Zip Code : 91001


Start Date & Time : Monday, February 15, 2010 1:03 PM

Issue : There is currently a wide spread power outage in this area.

This outage is due to an equipment problem.

Status : Repair crews are in route.

Danny's Farm Open House

 Danny's Farm Open House for the Altadena Community


PLEASE JOIN US FOR AN OPEN HOUSE, TO LEARN MORE ABOUT  DANNY’S FARM AND ITS ROLE IN OUR COMMUNITY

Saturday, March 13th • 10:00 – Noon

Located at the Altadena Stables • 3064 Ridgeview Drive• Altadena


      Building Friendships

      Learning about Animals

     Accessibility & Empowerment

Danny’s Farm employs adults with disabilities, and provides a safe, nurturing environment to work and learn.

Our highly skilled, compassionate staff serves our most vulnerable populations while pairing loving farm animals with special needs children.

WE HOPE YOU CAN JOIN US! FAMILIES WELCOME!!!

KINDLY RSVP:  (626) 797-FARM(3276)

   Danny's Farm

   3064 1/2 Ridgeview Drive

   Altadena, CA 91001

   www.dannysfarm.com

Power Out in The Meadows

To quote Gilda Radner, "If it's not one thing, it's another..."

UPDATED at 4:10 p.m. :  All power is out.

Before :
We were experiencing a power "brown out" of sorts.  I'm showing only 90 amps coming into my house.  The usual is 120.  Lights come on but are dimmed and appliances don't seem to be working.

The Edison Outage Center had the gollowing:

ALTADENA Zip Code : 91001

Start Date & Time : Wednesday, February 10, 2010 10:32 AM
Issue : There is currently a power outage in this area.
This outage is due to an equipment problem.
Status : Repair crews are gathering equipment and materials.

Estimated Power Restoration:
At this time we expect service to be fully restored Wednesday, February 10, 2010 6:00 PM

A Well Deserved Break!

Thanks to Amish for this great pic.

Doctors and Nurses in The Meadows

I've had a few inquiries as to whether there are Doctors and Nurses in The Meadows should someone need assistance and we're unable to leave.

If you are a Doctor or Nurse and wish to let me know, I'll keep the information confidential and will connect you with the neighbor if needed.

Thanks.

Public Works eNotify

From our Sherriff Liaison:

You may find additional information on road closures, bebris flow, etc. at the website managed by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works. Here's the link:


www.dpwcare.org

There's an eNotify button on the home page, right side.
On that site, you can sign up for mud flow, debris flow, flood and road closure emergency notifications. These notifications can be received through email or as a text message on your cell phone.

You'll note on their website that there is a list from which you may choose other notifications as well, including hazardous waste and e-waste roundups.

L. A. County Plan for Next Storm

From L. A. County Supervisor's Office:

"The incident command team is concerned about Canyon Crest. They have deployed a County Fire engine to be stationed in the Meadows and Sheriffs are on alert to assist. They are not planning to evacuate the Meadows at this time. "

Next Storm Coming

Please see Tim Rutt's  http://www.altadenablog.com/  for a post from the National Weather Service.

There's a chance that Canyon Crest could be impacted yet again starting on Tuesday.

I did receive an email from our Sherriff's Liaison stating that an evacuation of Altadena was not expected, but that debris flow could again be a factor.

Pics of El Prieto Canyon

Thanks to Amish and Jeff for these pics of El Prieto Canyon.