Sunday, December 23, 2012

MFSC Offering Free Oaks and Toyons


Have the "Holiday Plumps"? Need to shed some lbs after the holidays? Don't join some expensive gym you'll only go to once or twice. Work off those cookies in the clean fresh outdoors!!  And if you overindulged in something else over the holidays, we have Community Service hours too.
 
Yes, the Meadows Fire Safe Council is having Tree Plantings every Saturday in January @ 1 pm.  We have over 150 oak trees and some Toyon (hollywood). This is your chance to actually make a forest in Altadena! If you are interested in any or all of these events just reply to this email and I will send you details (once I have figured them out). Tell your friends (and people you meet on the street)!!
 
Also this notice from MFSC
FREE OAK TREES
ALSO TOYON (“HOLLYWOOD”)
WE INSTALL AND PROVIDE CARE AND LOCATION INFO
 THE MEADOWS FIRE SAFE COUNCIL

CALL OR EMAIL BILL
626 578 0204
 
COMMUNITY TREE PLANTING EVENTS EACH SATURDAY IN JANUARY @ 1PM HELP SAVE THE PLANET!!


 

Saturday, December 22, 2012

Commercial Building to be School

The unfinished commercial building at the corner of Altadena Drive and Lincoln has been sold and will be leased to a school.

The other real estate agent couldn't disclose which school will occupy the building, but he confirmed that the escrow sold and the lease has been signed.

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Artists from the North Opening

From Jane:
 
Hey Meadows Neighbors....come out and support your local artists.   I will have some more photos in an art show "Artists from the North" featuring local artists, opening this Sunday, Dec. 16, 2:00 - 4:30pm. Altadena Community Arts Center - 2460 N. Lake Ave., Altadena. Hope to see you there.

Jane Szabo


Thursday, November 15, 2012

Millard Canyon Fundraising


Shared by a neighbor in The Meadows from Altadena Foothills Conservancy:

 

I think you’ll be glad to know that we’re almost there. We’re $40,000 shy of our $675,000 goal, but the current landowner has offered to put up $20,000 if we can acquire his land before the end of the month. So if we raise $20,000 to match his $20,000, we’re there! But we need to do it quickly.

 

The last thing we want to do is impose on your charity. But if you find that you have the means to help us with this last push, we would be so grateful. This has been a long process – AFC tried to acquire the land in 2004 and fell just short, and we’ve been working hard to put together the funding for this go-round for over a year.

                                                                                                                                                                                          

200 of you have donated to the project so far, supplementing the “big” funding we’ve gotten from various agencies and environmental groups. If each of you gives another $100, we’d reach our goal. That said, any gift helps, large or small – especially since every dollar you give is being matched by one from the seller.

                                                                                                                                                                                          
If you haven’t been to lower Millard, I’d love for you to join us to hike it this Saturday, Nov. 17, at 9 a.m.

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Millard Canyon Meadows Meeting


An invitation from Meadows neighbors:

 
Meadows Meeting: Millard Canyon

3:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 17

Home of Margaret and Dennis Bridwell – 4554 Rising Hill Road

 
Dear Meadows Neighbors,

 

We live just above a gorgeous wilderness area in lower Millard Canyon. This part of the canyon has long been in private hands, but the Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy is working to preserve it and keep it from being developed.

 

Please join us for refreshments and a conversation about the canyon with the conservancy’s executive director and one of its consulting biologists. We’ll talk about access to the canyon, the canyon as a community resource, and how we can help to improve its habitat. They’d like to hear our thoughts. We hope you’ll join us!

 

Sincerely,

 

Margaret and Dennis Bridwell

Horse Rescue

There were several fire trucks and an ambulance up on El Prieto this afternoon.  Turns out they're doing a horse rescue up in the foothills.

Saturday, November 10, 2012

Opposing Child Day Care at Canyon Crest and Lincoln

A request for assistance to oppose a child day care business at a home at the corner of Canyon Crest and Lincoln has been made by a neighbor on lower Canyon Crest. Glyn and LeighAnn are asking that you email them with your comments.

The County is holding a hearing on the proposal on December 4.  The public can make comments from Nov. 4 to Dec. 4.

Here's Glyn and LeighAnn's concern:

The main concern for the neighborhood is changing a residential property into a business.  The permit requested is for a 28-child child care center on the corner of Lincoln and Canyon Crest.  This will bring many additional cars daily of people dropping and picking up children on this corner in addition to employees.  As everyone in The Meadows knows, this corner can be dangerous and busy with everyone turning right and La Vina resisdences also using Lincoln as an outlet.

 This is our only outlet from our neighborhood and a business will impact our ease of driving to and from our houses on a daily basis.

My email address is lafsamuel@gmail.com

 

Thanks for all your help and support,

Glyn and LeighAnn Samuel

626 398 9933

3329 Canyon Crest Rd.

Sunday, October 28, 2012

Offering from a Neighbor

Hello neighbors, This Is Muriel Hunter The Presonal Trainer on Hollygrove Ln. I am offering a complementary Fun fitness session or consultation with a free meal plan or Newsletter for those who want to prevent the holiday weight gain. Reserve your date before November first. This offer is for a limited time. My Studio is out side and some what seasonal therefore I am seeking to offer addional skills in Staging and organizing. details are on www.linkedin.com/murielhunter or my direct contact is kimudan@gmail.com 626.399.8639

Thursday, October 25, 2012

Trolling Dent Removers Cause Suspicion

Just want to let our neighbors know that we called the Sheriff's Department 10 minutes ago to let them know that a car load of suspicious looking men were trolling up Risinghill Road telling us that they would take the dents out of our truck for $100.00. The man who got out of the car had a stack of business-looking cards that he kept hidden from viewing what was on them and they went up the hill and came down a few minutes later. The car was an older beat-up looking maroon color. The man was about 25-30 wearing a dark red shirt/jeans. All of the men were Hispanic and the ones in the car looked really rough.

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Woodsy Owl Sign Stolen


The Woodsy Owl sign has been stolen from lower Canyon Crest. 
 
After being badly vandalized twice, our neighbor, Jane, rebuilt and reinstalled it.
 
Obviously, someone with a vehicle took the sign as it was quite heavy.
 
 

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

Arrow Shot into Meadows Hillside

A neighbor on Aralia, wants everyone to be aware that arrows were shot from Hahamonga and landed in his backyard hillside. Law enforcement has been notified.

Thursday, August 30, 2012

Home Break-in


On Wednesday in the 4400 block of El Prieto, someone smashed a window and reached in and stole a laptop.  The house alarm system didn't activate as the window wasn’t opened, just smasked.  

The sheriff was nitified.
 
Please be aware of any unusual activity and call the Sheriff immediately.
 
 

Free Pond Water Lettuce


Jane has free water lettuce - a type of floating pond plant if anyone wants some.

Email her @  lunaart@earthlink.net

Monday, August 20, 2012

Attempted Car Break-in

Someone attempted to break in to a car early this morning on El Prieto.  The resident saw someone trying to break into his car at 5:00 a.m. on El Prieto.  He banged on the window of his house.  The person began to ran.  The resident tried to pursue but the person ran off.

A reminder to secure your car and son't leave anything inside.

The thefts from cars have been happening all over Altadena, but this is the first known here in The Meadows.

Wednesday, August 08, 2012

Woodsy Owl is Back!

Thanks to Jane and Todd, a friendly face will greet you next time you drive out of the Meadows - Woodsy Owl is back! 


Saturday, July 28, 2012

Commentary Regarding the Bears

A concerned commentary regarding the bears in The Meadows from MaryEllen Schoeman:

I know this is really, really long, but I have become very concerned with how habituated our local bears are becoming and want very much to stress that this kind of situation can only end in tears, and usually bloodshed. I'm putting it in the body of this email and also attaching it in Word.

An appeal on behalf of the bears:

I know we all love to see ‘our’ neighborhood bears and it’s fun to watch them.  But… the bears in the Meadows have surpassed the carrying capacity for the land. That means that the populations of bears is more than the land can actually support. This means that people are feeding them. Some people, I’m sure, are feeding them accidentally by leaving dog food out or leaving unsecured sheds or garages where food is stored. But I am equally sure that some people are feeding them deliberately.



I’m begging you, please stop. These bears are becoming far, far too habituated to humans and are now seeing human habitations as a food source. Bears are cute, but they are not harmless. I recently made the mistake of leaving a bag of dog food outside – I thought that since it was in a big plastic tub, and that tub was latched tight and locked inside of a welded wire cage, it would be okay for just one night. A bear came that night, dragged the cage for several feet (this cage is so heavy it took four big guys just to shove it out of the back of a pickup truck), and then bent the door at both top and bottom until it could get to the food. This is not a wimpy little cage made of chicken wire or hardware cloth, it was a welded cage of heavy-gauge wire. The bear bent the door like it was nothing. I have also found bears sleeping in my carport several times, which indicates that they are getting used to sleeping in human-constructed places. This is terribly unsafe, both for the bears and for the humans – approaching your car at dawn and clicking your car alarm? Could result in a very confused, frightened bear charging out of the carport at the only exit it knows – right where you are standing.



If you have been feeding bears, or letting them sleep on or around your deck, porch, etc., it is essential that you stop before a big disaster happens. Don’t let the recent ‘successful’ darting and relocation of the Glendale bear fool you into thinking that this is what will happen if one of ‘our’ bears gets too bold. It is usually not done that way (the Dept. of Fish and Game needed some good PR after the mountain lion debacle), and is misleading – the Glendale bear has not, in fact, been released, it is still in custody and will most likely be sent to a sanctuary to live out its life in captivity. That is not what we want for our bears, nor do we want them killed for being  ‘problem’ bears.



Also remember that feeding bears can lead to human tragedy, too. Remember the story from several years back of an elderly lady who had been feeding them for fourteen year. The bears started fighting one day and she tried to break it up, and was killed and eaten. Most reports of bears breaking into houses and killing people are also because people had been feeding them.



This is the time of year when young bears would naturally begin to disperse to new areas, in search of food and other resources. But if there is plenty of food around, they will not disperse, resulting in ever-increasing populations. But, that also makes this time of year a good time to start cutting back on feeding them. Cut back gradually, and then start putting food out on an irregular pattern, one night but then not for a few nights, etc., until you stop completely.  The bears don’t need food or shelter from you. They need to be allowed to go live the life that nature intends for them.



I am no expert on bears, so if anyone else has any good advice on how to wean them from human contact, please weigh in. Let’s all keep our bears safe, even if it means we see them less often.


--
MaryEllen Schoeman
Owner, Wild Things Pet Sitting

Sunday, July 22, 2012

Meadows Public Library!

Thanks to Jane and Todd for this fantastic addition to The Meadows.

We now have The Meadows Public Library!  This is a book sharing library.  You bring a book to leave with Meadows neighbors and take one that you want to read.

How wonderful is that!?!?!

Located at 4337 Risinghill Road.

We hopre to see you at the book house soon!

 

Sunday, July 15, 2012

Need Rocks?

Anyone need rocks for their garden?

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Thanks to Amish for the airlift pics over The Meadows today.  As he stated:

" I happened to take these pictures with my phone today. I think they were practicing but not sure. The heli seemed to pick up something on the long line."




Sunday, July 08, 2012

Meadows-wide Yard Sale?

A neighbor asked if we were doing a Meadows-wide yard sale this year.  Last year we did it in September.

Any interest out there?

Saturday, July 07, 2012

New Bear Sighting

A new post last night from Andy, a neighbor in The Meadows:

"I saw a medium–sized black bear on the lot of the corner house at the top of Rising Hill Road en route to my house after a short hike. He/She was very timid and brownish in color. This is the second one I've seen this year in that same spot..."

Monday, July 02, 2012

Hootie Sign Damaged Again!

Someone,again, smashed a hole in the Hootie sign again today. 

This is the second time within about 12 months.

The Hootie sign was created by a volunteer in The Meadows and repaired once already with neighborhood funds. We all think it adds charm to our entry into and our of The Meadows.

It seems circumspect that potentially the same person is causing the damage.  Can't think of why someone would want to damage the sign.

If anyone has insight, please share.

There are no funds to repair it.  If we in The Meadows want to fund that, we'll need to tak up a collection.  Please let me know if anyone is interested in heading that effort.

Thursday, June 28, 2012

Community Garden Picnic Reminder for this Saturday

Mark your calendars. This is one of the most popular events in Altadena. June 30 from 1-5 p.m. with great food, music and lots of visiting with other Altadenians.


Help Save Millard Canyon

A neighbor would like everyone to know about the fund-raising effort for Millard Canyon.  More information on this link:

"This is so important to our neighborhood and it would preserve our canyon from development forever"

Help Save Millard Canyon!

Eaton Canyon Nature Center will match donations up to $10,000 so every dollar we donate is actually worth $2 to the cause!

Monday, June 18, 2012

Bear Sighting Tonight

A bear sighting from neighbors on Canyon Dell tonight:


"I thought you would like to know that our two Great Pyrenees were on their job and alerted us to a bear sighting at about 7:15PM tonight.  Two brown bears were roaming below our house on Canyon Dell.  They seemed to be deterred by the barking of our dogs and took off up Millard Canyon toward the horseshoe bend."

Forest Protection Work Day June 24

Forest Protection Work Day, June 24

The Meadows FireSafe Council invites you to join us on Sunday June 24 from 12:30-4 PM. 


Meet at the El Prieto Rd trail access point (next to 4349 El Prieto). 

We will be removing fire prone invasive weeds from our surrounding forest.  The whole family is welcome, but no children under 16 without a parent or responsible adult.  Bring water and wear closed toed shoes and long pants.  Bring work gloves, your favorite weeding tools and snacks if you wish. 

RSVP to 626-578-0602 and leave your name, address, phone number and number of people attending.  See you there!

Curbside Cleanup Day

On Saturday, June 23, Athens will have an annual curbside cleanup day. 

They'll pick up bulky items such as furniture, appliances and up to 2 car/truck tires.

Also, electornic items, but light bulbs and batteries will not be accepted.

Also, extra bagged trash.

They will not accpet hazardous materials.

Place items at the curn no later than Friday, June 22 at 6:00 p.m.

Tuesday, June 05, 2012

Community Garden Picnic

Mark your calendars.  This is one of the most popular events in Altadena. June 30 from 1-5 p.m. with great food, music and lots of visiting with other Altadenians.


Monday, June 04, 2012

Altadena Town Council Elections

From the Altadena Town Council:


The 2012 Altadena Town Council Elections will be held next Saturday, June 9th.  Admittedly, this year won't have the most exciting election, with only six of eight seats running uncontested; but the opportunity for Altadenans to get to know their Census Tract Representatives and to express their support to these community volunteers is a very important part of the community process.

Judy Matthews is the candidate in the Meadows Census Tract of 4603.01.

The Election Committee has a Youtube Page where you can see Judy's and the other Town Council candidates' May 15th presentations.  Take a moment to watch the videos and get to know them, as they will be the people who you can approach for the next two years about any concerns you may have with neighborhood issues.

The Town Council is an advisory body that communicates and coordinates residents’ needs with private and public agencies, such as Southern California Edison, CHP, Altadena Sheriff, The City of Pasadena, and numerous Developers, among others. 

Judy's video is at:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ub7Kil_W2zw

Lastly, we could use a few more volunteers on election day.  We need people at the three polling locations, help with the ballot count and some transportation assistance.  To view the available slots and to volunteer, Please go to: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0A4DACA62EA75-2012  Times range from forty-five minutes to a couple of hours.

Thanks!  Let's get out on Saturday, June 9th to vote.

Eric Pierce

Sunday, June 03, 2012

Accident on Risinghill

This afternoon there was a minor accident on Risinghill caused by someone tailgating and going too fast to stop when the neighbors pulled into their driveway. Interesting that there were a lot of people to witness that the speedster was a habitual speedster and that the other folks weren't. People up here DO notice when people speed. Slow down!

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Power Outage in The Meadows

UPDATE: ARound 5:00 p.m. power appears to be back on.

Edison states that power has been out since 8:40 this morning and will come back at 5:00 pm. Out for routine maintenance. Anyone get any notice? Seems AT&T did with their portable generator installed this morning.

Sunday, May 20, 2012

New FireSafe Council Activities

Members of the Meadows Fire Safe Council are beginning to walk door-to-door in the Meadows to let you know about upcoming plans and obtain your input.

The Meadows does not have a grant this year for fuel reduction so residents are on their own to meet County requirements for fire inspection.  We do plan to ask for a grant for 2013 and we’d like to know residents' priorities for making the Meadows more fire safe.

In the meantime, the Council is planning two projects:

·        On Sunday, June 24 from 12:30 to 4 PM, we are having a community volunteer day where we are all going to work in the surrounding woods removing fire prone invasive plants that do not belong there. This is relatively easy work  and the whole family can participate.

·        Our next project is a neighborhood fire assessment, done by professional firefighters, that looks at potential fire hazards and suggests ways to correct them. This is voluntary and is just intended to give you information you can use to help protect your property. There is no cost or obligation and no one will require you to do anything. 


Call 626-578-0602 or email wmr83g@gmail.com and leave a message if you are interested in any of this or if you have any questions. We will call or email you back.

(Everyone is welcome to post comments to this blog, but please use the contact information above for any questions or requests of the Meadows FireSafe Council.)

Saturday, May 19, 2012

Notice of Filming

Everyone in The Meadows should have received a Notice of Filming yesterday or today.

5/23 through 5/25 preparation and filming will occur at 4575 Risinghill. Parking from 4554 Risinghill north to the end of Risinghill is restricted on 5/23.

5/24 will be filming at 3720 Canyon Crest.

The welcome news is that this is the first time a film production company has actually complied with the notification requirements on file with the County.  Because we're only one road in and out, the entire Meadows has to be notified when filming in The Meadows or accessing Canyon Crest.

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Art Break 2012 May 25

Solar Power Presentation?

I just attended an interesting presentation on solar power installation. 

This is a company that installs the panels for free on your house. You continue to buy power from Edison through tier two usage, but then buy power through the solar company at a fixed rate for the higher tiers and at a cost savings on your total electric bill.

If enough Meadows residents are interested, I can set up a presentation.

It looked interesting to me and a good fit for The Meadows.

Just send me an email or a reply with your contact information if interested.

Thanks,
Greg

Monday, May 14, 2012

Meadows Market Report May 2012

The real estate market in The Meadows is showings healthy signs so far in 2012.  For a quick analysis and look at recent sales and available properties, follow this link to dropbox.  (Give it a little time to open - it's in "the cloud"!)

Meadows Market Report May 2012

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Property Tax Adjustments Start June 30

A couple of neighbors have asked me about getting their property taxes adjusted. It’s actually a pretty simple process and is available only between June 1 and November 30.
(This probably only applies to you if you bought your home in The Meadows between 1999 when the real estate boom started and 2008 when it ended. It could also apply if you had a major remodel during that time and your property taxes were adjusted.)

It’s called a “Decline-in-Value Review”. From the L.A. County Tax Assessor’s website, the instructions are:

“If the current market value of your property is less than its current assessed value, you may qualify for tax relief.  Call the Los Angeles County tax Assessor’s office at 213-974-3211 or 1-888-807-2111 toll free for additional information.

The Decline-in-Value Review Application, form RP-87, is available online from June 1 through November 30.”

I reviewed the sales in The Meadows since 1999 and it appears that some residents would be good candidates for this if they haven’t already done so.

It will require getting information on two comparable properties that recently sold.  You can see those on the Tax Assessor’s website or I’m happy to identify them for you.  We’ve had three strong sales so far this year which are helping with our values, but they are lower than those sales that occurred before 2009.
The tax assessor’s site is http://assessor.lacounty.gov
Click on Tax Savings Programs and then Decline of Property Values.

Let me know if I can help.

Tuesday, May 08, 2012

Property Insurance Options?

I've heard from a few neighbors that have CA FairPlan insurance that their premiums are going up due to "recent fires".

I also know that neighbors both on the canyon sides and up against brush have been able to get other insurance.

I got off FairPlan a few years ago and have a policy with Farmers. And my house backs up to brush.

Anyone want to share their insurance companies?

Hazardous Waste and E-Waste Roundup

Great time to clean out the garage, carport, shed, etc. of household hazardous waste and E-waste.

Saturday, May 26 from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
252 West Mountain Ave. in Altadena
enter from Figueroa Drive

Messing with Mailboxes Continues

Two Meadows neighbors, one as recently as this morning, have reported that mail continues to be taken out of mailboxes.

This morning, one neighbor found mail from addresses on Gravelia, Risinghill and lower Canyon Crest.  The mail was postmarked from May 4 through May 7.

He also reported that he saw additional mail tossed down in the canyon off Canyon Crest but couldn't retrieve it.  The mail is being delivered back to the post office.

All incidents have been reported to the Sheriff and post office.

It's unknown what time of day this is happening, but since our mail is delivered in the afternoon, the thief must be coming sometime after that and into the evening.

It's suggested that we all keep a more diligent eye on the neighborhood in the evening hours and report any suspicious activity to the Sheriff and post office.

Also, neighbors may want to take their mail in earlier.

Monday, May 07, 2012

AHS May 14 Millard Canyon Talk


Even if you aren't an avid outdoors hiker, if you live near the San Gabriel Mountains you probably know of Millard Canyon. Covered by a canopy of at least nine species of native trees, habitat to countless birds and other wildlife, the canyon serves as a wildlife corridor for the large mammal species that live in the foothills.  Millard Creek is a year-round stream that  feeds the area as well.

There is a good possibility that 13 acres in the canyon, north of Canyon Crest Road, can be saved from development.  

Come to the May 14th  ALTADENA HISTORICAL SOCIETY program and hear author, historian and outdoor enthusiast Elizabeth Pomeroy speak about the past and future of our beloved canyon.  

In addition, Elizabeth and Conservancy president John Howell will invite you to take a hike on May 19 and personally experience this 13 acre parcel.  The hike will be led by experts in biology, geology, history or hydrology.  Learn how the Altadena Crest Trail will be extended through the well-publicized "La Vina gap.”

Altadena Historical Society
Quarterly Meeting and Lecture
Historian and Author Elizabeth Pomeroy & Arroyo Foothills Conservancy Executive Director John Howell

The Past and Future of Millard Canyon
Monday, May 14, 2012, 7:30 PM
Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Drive, Altadena, CA 91001
Programs are free and open to the public

Wednesday, May 02, 2012

Hike Millard Canyon May 19

Meadows residents have been invited to a hike through Millard Canyon on May 19th.  The Arroyo & Foothills Conservancy has a bid in on purchasing the acreage.

Here's the announcement:

Hike Millard Canyon on May 19

Ten years ago the Arroyos & Foothills (AFC) made a run at saving 13 acres in beautiful lower Millard Canyon.  They teamed up with the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy and bid $50,000 more than its appraised value to try to buy it at auction. It was heartbreaking to lose to someone who wanted to build homes in the canyon.

Never again! Ten years later and we have another chance. The owner has offered AFC the property on favorable terms. Let's not let this land get away!

Come see this seldom-hiked canyon on Saturday, May 19. Choose from four hikes: 9:00, 10:30, 12:00 or 1:30.

The habitat is top notch; the stream runs year-round; trees cover the whole route.

Docents expert in biology, geology, history or hydrology will guide us. Learn how the Altadena Crest Trail will be extended through the ‘La Vina gap’.

Directions:

Meet at the Altadena Community Garden. Take the 210 north to the Lincoln Avenue turnoff and go north to the corner of Lincoln and Palm (3330 N. Lincoln Ave. Altadena). We’ll be shuttled to the Millard campground parking lot and then we’ll hike down the canyon to Canyon Crest Road. The route is less than a mile and a half long, but somewhat rugged. The hike itself will take 1-1/2 to 2 hours. We’ll be shuttled back to the Community Garden for refreshments and to learn about this opportunity to save this remarkable place.

Suggestions: 

Wear a long sleeve shirt and pants because there’s poison oak along parts of the route.

Wear sturdy hiking shoes because much of the route is with faint or no trail and there’s boulder hopping at several stream crossings.

Consider hiking poles for those crossings.

Rattlesnakes are beginning to come out – be alert.

This is not a hike for dogs.

Bring garden gloves if you’d like to remove a few invasive plants along the way.



Thursday, April 26, 2012

Messing with the Mailboxes

Update:  The same neighbor found El Prieto residents' mail tossed in the bushes.  She is going to deliver it to the houses.  Chances are this was someone taking mail looking for tax refunds.

A neighbor reported this morning that mailboxes were opened at some houses on El Prieto and Risinghill.  It most likely occurred last night or early this morning.

Please watch for any unusual activity.

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Update Lost Dog

Update 4/26: The dog has been caught and a neighbor is holding it. Anyone interested in adopting?

Here's a picture of the terrier that has been in The Meadows the last two days.  Several neighbors have tried to coax him to come to them, but he/she's too scared.  After running through the rain yesterday, he was out this morning on El Prieto, Risinghill and Canyon Crest and appeared to be limping. 

We're starting to think that he/she was dropped off here in The Meadows.

If you can catch the dog, please do.  It seems really sweet and, at this point, tired and scared.

Monday, April 23, 2012

Lost Dog?

Just a few minutes ago, I and a neighbor saw a small brown and black terrier running down El Prieto and Aralia.  Anyone missing a dog?  The dog looked lost.

Summer Concert Series at Farnsworth

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Thursday, April 12, 2012

Farmers Market at Loma Alta Park

News today that we'll have a farmer's market at Loma Alta Park starting Wednesday, May 30 from 3-7.

Looks like they've got some good vendors.

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Found Turtle

From the 4300 block of Canyon Crest, neighbors found a turtle, hard shell, green/brown in their back yard, They took it to the Pasadena Humane Society. 

Suspicious Fire on Hollygrove

Monday night at around 8:45 p.m., a neighbor on Hollygrove reported that aapparently someone threw a fire bomb of some sort through the front window of the vacant house for sale on Hollygrove.

Another neighbor spotted it out of her kitchen window.

The Fire Department was on top of it quickly and put it out.  Doesn't look like there was a lot of damage.
Sheriffs were taking reports of a "suspicious fire."

Tuesday, April 03, 2012

Break-in on Canyon Crest

A break-in occurred in the 4100 block of Canyon Crest yesterday.  It happened mid-day when the residents had left the house.  They typically are home during the day, so neighbors are speculating that the house was watched.  The burglars broke in by prying the back door in. Only small items were taken and larger, more expensive items were left behind.

One neighbor also heard that another neighbor's home alarm was set off last week when someone pried open his window and he was called by the police. 

Neighbors are encouraging everyone to be on the look out for people that you don't recognise and suspicious behavior.

Sunday, April 01, 2012

Updated: Police Activity on Lincoln Blocks Access to The Meadows

Updated: La Vina gates at Sunset Ridge are being kept open, per a neighbor, to allow Meadows residents to get home.

For at least the past hour, sheriffs and police have blocked Lincoln Avenue north of Altadena Drive and South of Loma Alta where an alleged shooting has occurred. It also appears the shooter is hold up in one of the houses on the west side of the street.  I also saw what I think is a "door-buster" truck being escorted up to the site.

I left The Meadows around 3:30 p.m..  Lincoln had been blocked and police had guns drawn.

Trying to return at 4:30, I and other Meadows residents could not go past a police block on Loma Alta just west of Sunset Ridge Drive.  Thanks to a friend and another resident who live in La Vina,  they opened the Sunset Ridge gate for many of us who then could drive through La Vina and down Lincoln to Canyon Crest.

Police had Lincoln blocked just south of Canyon Crest, so right now, Meadows residents can't exit.

If anyone hears of updates, please let me know.

Thursday, March 29, 2012

Mountain Lion Attempted Break-In

Neighbors on Risinghill reported that a large, approximately 200 lb. mountain lion, tried to break into their house to get at their house cat early this morning. 
Even with loud noises and shining a flashlight, the mountain lion was not deterred and tried several times and ways to enter the house.

After then hanging around the house, the animal eventually left the property.

The neighbor stated that the mountain lion was very large and all muscle.

A caution to keep your pets indoors and not in view of this wildlife.

Friday, March 23, 2012

Altadena Visioning Workshops

Starting April 4 at Loma Alta Park, Altadenans are invited to participate in one or the series of workshops planned to give Altadena residents and business owners an opportunity to talk about how they'd like to see Altadena.  What's missing in Altadena?  Have you faced obstacles in the effort to remodel your home?  What were those obstacles?  Have you had issues trying to establish a small business here?  What made it difficult or complicated the process?

During these workshops, you'll have an opportunity to talk about some of those things and make recommendations for what should be different - in the ordinance requirements that currently govern what we can do in Altadena and where.

Are there things you really like about other communities that you think might be beneficial to our community?  If so, what?

What's great about Altadena?  What can be improved? 

We have the opportunity to look at zoning regulations in Altadena and make recommendations to the County about how they should be changed, stronger or more relaxed.

These workshops are intended to gather information which will be compiled by the consultants for the County and your input is valuable. 

The flyer is also shown below and it includes information about how to get more information if you need that.  If not, please make plans to participate in one or all of these important workshops.





Wednesday, March 14, 2012

New Coop Grocery Store Forming

Dear neighbors,

My name is Alex Berrie, and I am helping to start a cooperative grocery store in the Altadena/Pasadena area. Please join me on Saturday, March 24, at 2:00 p.m. at my house on Hollygrove to hear more about the Arroyo Food Cooperative. I will have our president and founder, Patrick Reagan, over to give a short presentation of where we are in our current efforts to get our doors open. (Hint: we need more members, and this is where you come in!) Light refreshments will be provided.

Please RSVP to alexandraberrie@gmail.com, or to 626.688.2787.

Monday, March 12, 2012

Great Info on House Insurance

I heard from a neighbor over the weekend that she was able to go back to California FairPlan for her home insurance at a reduced rate.  CA FairPlan told her that they were aware of all the work that had been done by The Meadows FireSafe Council and had reduced their rates for our neighborhood.

She saved a significant amount of money.

Friday, March 02, 2012

Shake It, Shake It, Shake It!

Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich is inviting all who might be interested in seeing (or experiencing) new Earthquake Simulators which were developed as his initiative as follows:

Date:            Monday, March 12, 2012
Time:           10:00 am
Place:           Eliot Middle School
                   2184 Lake Avenue, Altadena

You'll have a chance to meet Supervisor Antonovich and Los Angeles County Fire Chief Daryl Osby as they introduce the new simulators and you may be able to experience first hand the County's newest Earthquake Safety/Education tool.

The event will begin with a press conference followed by a demonstration.

You might want to arrive a little early because the only available parking will be on the streets surrounding the school.

The Supervisor and his staff look forward to seeing you.

Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Cougar in the Canyon

From a Meadows neighbor:


A few days ago, a German shephard-sized cougar was spotted nosing around at the picnic tables in El Prieto canyon. Despite the hiker having 3 large dogs and blowing a whistle, the cougar circled around behind the hiker to block the forward path and continued to watch him partially concealed in the brush. The cougar definitely appeared predatory and did not run away. The hiker backed away the way he came in instead of continuing down the path the cougar was blocking.

Saturday, February 18, 2012

Found Dog

This very cute and friendly Terrier(?) was found wandering around on Aralia.  No tags.  The neighbors were taking him to Pasadena Humane this afternoon as they already have two dogs.

Anyone recognize him?  We were thinking that maybe someone dropped him off in The Meadows.


Thursday, February 16, 2012

Tree limb down

Tree limb down on lower canyon crest

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

New Meadows Home For Sale

I'm often asked about the status of homes for sale here in The Meadows.  This year, I'm going to start posting homes as they come on the market.  I'll be posting those that I and other Realtors are representing (if they'd like).

Here's a fantastic new home at 4166 Aralia Road.  Gorgeous gourmet kitchen, hardwood floors, pool, spa, many updates and a spa-like Master bath. Three bedrooms and 1 3/4 baths. Offered for $560,000.



Please join me this weekend, Saturday and Sunday, from 1-4 to see the home.

Follow this link for more pictures on the website.

4166 Aralia Road

Free Clothing Giveaway

A neighbor's church is hosting a free clothing giveaway:

First AME Zion Church in Pasadena
The "Open Closet" hours are from 10am to 2pm
1087 North Raymond Ave, Pasadena
All are welcome

Monday, February 13, 2012

HVAC Referral

A neighbor is looking for any referrals to a good HVAC (heating and air conditioning) service? Her old forced air furnace needs some attention.

Sunday, February 12, 2012

SCE Planned Power Outage Feb. 18

I received a postcard from Edison yesterday announcing a planned power outage Saturday, February 18 from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

I'm assuming everyone in The Meadows received one. 

There are tips on how to prepare. It also states that we may not experience outages for that whole time.

Saturday, February 04, 2012

Annual Brush Clearance Notice

I received my annual brush clearance notice in the mail yesterday.

Brush clearance inspections are scheduled to begin May 1.

Watch for your notice which provides all the requirements.

Sunday, January 29, 2012

Hooty's Back!

Thanks to Jane for recreating our Hooty "Don't Pollute" sign that had been damaged realier.

Thursday, January 26, 2012

Exchange Materials

A neighbor suggested that I create a section in the blog for exchanging building materials.  I'm happy to do that if there's an interest in it.  It could go beyond building materials if there's enough interest.

For now, she is searching for some chain link fence, the short kind, 4' high, to replace an older wire fence that totally collapsed in the windstorm and a couple of wooden gates.

Anyone have other materials from or not from the windstorm they're looking to get rid of or exchange?

Friday, January 20, 2012

Bear Program

Sierra Club plans program on local bear history - Noted wildlife biologist Kevin Brennan will present "Grizzlies and Black Bears in the San Gabriel Mountains" at 7:30 PM Wednesday January 25, at Eaton Canyon Nature Center, 1750 N. Altadena Drive.

Sponsored by the Sierra Club Forest Committee, the program will trace the history of the mighty grizzly bear that used to dominate local mountains and valleys.

Brennan, who has worked for the past 20 years with the California Department of Fish & Game, will also discuss the history and habits of the black bear, the successor to the grizzly that now roams our neighborhoods and hot tubs, and how humans can best live near the black bears of the San Gabriels. The public is welcome. Reception and refreshments are at 7:00 PM, the program begins at 7:30 PM.


Wednesday, January 04, 2012

The Meadows Real Estate Market in Review 2011

I've recapped the year in real estate here in The Meadows. 

The report includes all the sales in our neighborhood and Lower Canyon Crest area along with statistical charts from 2006 to 2011.

As always, if you need any real estate assistance, please let me know.

Thanks,
Greg

To view and/or print the document, please go to the following link. (It may take a minute to load.)

The Meadows Real Estate Market Report 2011

Sunday, January 01, 2012

Activity at the Top of Risinghill

Theo sent  this email yesterday and wanted to share on the blog:

"I am freaked.  Three suspicious instances occurred since I last communicated with you: (1) I was sitting at my dining room table and saw a guy taking a photo of my house.  I ran out and confronted him.  He said he was just hiking.  He was there with another guy.  They said they had hiked over from Millard Canyon.  Two white guys.  They actually seemed innocent enough, but I don’t like people taking photos of my place.  (2) Yesteday I saw an SUV coming down my driveway as I was coming up.  He was in a hurry, avoided eye contact, and sped past.  Today I noticed that one of my ladders is missing from my backyard.  (3) Marina (my neighbor) said she saw a couple of guys taking photos yesterday of the trail near my house.  They said they were scoping out bike trails.  She said that routinely cars will come up here and drop off several bikers, then go back down.  When she engages them they are rude and express a sense of entitlement.  Holy cow!  What is going on?"



Theo-