LAFD Fire Alerts

From our TownCouncilperson:

With what has been called one of the best on site alerts for emergencies/calls that involve the Los Angeles Co. Fire Dept, you may subscribe to LAFD alerts.

The alerts range from (forgive me, not to be morbid) car accidents, building fires, a recent jump from a cliff, chlorine spills-anything that will call the fire dept out may be sent out as a brief alert. You will get an alert before the news hears and reports out.

Where I care is when fire happens. This is immediate, on site, and probably the best immediate source of emerging information for those who want it as it develops. Because this is so immediate, there is a note that the alerts are NOT meant to replace official instructions or calls for action. So far the amount of emails have not been overwhelming. I suspect that may change when a fire erupts...but for me, that is ok. In those situations, I want all the info I can get.

Below are instructions should you want to sign up. You can also read their blog.--Alice Wessen, Altadena Town Council

LAFD_ALERT messages are *not* official instructions or authorization to take action. We do not guarantee the timeliness or accuracy of LAFD_ALERTs. Do not reply to this message. After-action reports of significant incidents can be found at: http://lafd.org/blog For further information - or to join LAFD_ALERT: http://lafd.org/alertTo unsubscribe from LAFD_ALERT, send email to:LAFD_ALERT-unsubscribe@googlegroups.com

Living with Native Wildlife Presentation

Hi, it's MaryEllen, your friendly local wildlife rehabilitator.

I've had some people ask me about the possibility of me doing a presentation on living successfully with our native wildlife, which I would be pleased to do, if there is enough interest. It would probably be held at the park or the community center.

Could anyone who would be interested in attending please drop me an email (the link is on the right side of this blog) and let me know? That way I can gauge if there is enough interest and what size venue I might need. Thanks very much!

Education Forum

ALTADENA NAACP And ALTADENA TOWN COUNCIL SPONSOR Education Forum
• Meet candidates for PUSD (Board of Education Seats)
• Hear the presentations of candidates
• Ask questions
• Be informed

When: February 28, 2009
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Where: Altadena Community Center 730 East Altadena Drive

For additional information, please contact:“Tony” Stewart – (626) 798-2033 or Gino Sund – (626) 794-9609

Millard Canyon Conservation

Hi Gang!
Well it's that time again--time for another Volunteer Canyon Clean-up Day! This coming Saturday, February 28.
As usual, we will meet at my driveway (3617 Canyon Crest Rd. Altadena, 91001) at 9am sharp, take a short hike into the canyon, uproot as many of those nasty invasive, non-native plants as we can in 4 hours, then hike back out of the canyon feeling satisfied that we have done something positive for the environment.

At the risk of being redundant, I'll mention again that you will need sturdy hiking shoes/boots, long pants (and bring a long sleeve shirt). Tools, gloves, water and snacks will be provided--we just want your bodies.

Please come and help.

If you have any questions or discussion, contact me at (626) 398-6471 or email: vht@att.net.

Thanks,
Mike Hickman

Abandoned, Missing Dogs?

Hi my fellow Neighbors,

It's Day Ryan from the top of Rising Hill Road. This morning as I was walking my dog on the upper El Prieto Trail, I saw three...yes THREE dogs off leash however, no human in site. They were roaming back and forth on the trail as well as deep in the brush and still no human/owner was around.

I am sending this not as a warning, yet as a plea for assistance. I am extremely worried...not only for the dogs however, I am worried that they DO have an owner who may have hiked and could be missing/injured. Maybe I watch too much tv however, it is possible.

I called the Sheriff's department and unfortunately there was nothing that could be done. Marina (who resides near Theo) called Animal Control and they informed her that they couldn't come due to the location and suggested that the dogs be caught and they would then come. The dogs are extremely fearful so I don't know how that is going to work.

I am just asking that those of you who take your usual hikes up there, just look out for them, notice their activity and if you are able to catch them please call the Animal Control Department immediately.

The dogs are definitely not strays, two of them (Golden Lab mixes) have on a purple collar and the other a shepherd mix (brindle in color with a white tip on its tail) has no collar. They appear clean and healthy so again they are not strays and did/do belong to someone.

Thank you so much for whatever assistance you can offer!

DAY

Attention All Meadows Artists

A quick note to "Tim". We need an email for you for neighbors to respond.

Tim wrote the following:
"I have noticed that there are a number of people with artistic talent in The Meadows. There is a sale called "Art on Palm" which has enjoyed a lot of success over the years and I believe we can get together a group who are able to put on a sale of our own.

My question is: Are there other Meadows artists or friends of The Meadows residents who have an interest in starting a "Meadows Artist's Sale"? Let me know in an email.

Tim

Resources in The Meadows

With so much talent in The Meadows and times as they are, I've added a "Resources in The Meadows" category in the right hand margin. I'll list services provided by our residents that may be of interest to others.

If you'd like to be listed, please send me a short blurb about the service you provide and contact info. I'll post an article to the blog and then add to the Resources column.

My only criteria is that you live in The Meadows and the service is legitimate.

PC Tech & Consultant in The Meadows

Lots of talent in The Meadows. Here's a notice from one of our residents regarding PC services he provides:

"My name is Christopher Williams, I live on El Prieto Road, and I wanted to let the neighborhood know that competent computer support is nearby if they need it.

Most of the support work that I do includes making recommendations about hardware and/or software upgrades, installing and configuring hardware and software, removing spyware and viruses, setting up wired and wireless networks, etc.

I also providing tutoring services for Word, Excel, Powerpoint, e-mail, web browsing and research techniques, multi-media file creation and management, and a wide variety of other applications.

The majority of my clients are residential and small business customers. I'm qualified to manage larger corporate networks also.

I believe in providing excellent customer service with an absolute guarantee of satisfaction and I have great local references for anyone who needs them.

Also, having managed teams of DSL and cable high speed Internet installers in the past, I am very respectful of people's personal space and sensibilities when working in homes and offices.

My primary service area includes the San Gabriel Valley, San Fernando Valley, and Los Angeles, but I'm available to work anywhere in the greater Los Angeles area as needed. I operate on a very flexible schedule, and am willing to provide 24/7 tech support with reasonable notice."

Thanks,
Christopher Williams
cell (510) 773-2786
cwcompost@gmail.com

Slow Down on Canyon Crest

This comment came into the blog. I'm assuming the writer is referring to the stop signs at Risinghill/Cloverhill and Canyon Crest:

"I live up in the cul-de-sac on Canyon Crest. I have had some problems with people turning on to Canyon Crest without stopping at the stop sign and looking up the road to see if cars are coming down the street. This morning a navy-blue VW did this and also sped down the road at speed greater than 50 MPH. This has happened many times before by many others and I fear this is an accident ready to happen. There are children on this street and their lives are more precious than the need to run a stop sign or speed to some important location. Please stop at stop signs, please look both ways at the intersections, and please SLOW DOWN. "

Inside Information

I haven't published this info on the blog before, but thought that many of you may be interested in a new listing here in The Meadows. An exceptional property on Canyon Dell with incredible view of both the West exposure and the an Gabriel Mountains.

This 3 bedroom , 3 bath home has an incredible layout and overlooks the Upper Arroyo and El Prieto Canyons. And, it's about 1900 sq. ft. with a pool and wonderful decks overlooking the canyon.

We're going to be on the market at the end of this week, but wanted all of you to see it first.

It's offered at $725,000.

Let me know if you want to see this house.

Thanks,
Greg

Winter Wonderland

Great pic from Canyon Crest.

Thanks Tina!

Draft Altadena Hillside Ordinance

Everyone should have received a notice from the County this past week regarding a meeting to review a draft of the Altadena Hillside Ordinance that is being proposed. It outlines efforts to protect the view of the San Gabriel Mountains and balance any new hillside construction in Altadena.

The meeting is on Wednesday, February 18, 7 p.m. at the Altadena Community Center.

A link to the proposed draft is here: http://planning.lacounty.gov/ord/draft

Sad News for Meadows Residents

Our neighbor, Henry C. Porter, recently died. His family asked that we notify residents in The Meadows. Henry Porter had been a resident of the Meadows for over 30 years. He lived on Gravelia. He loved to travel and stayed fit by walking and riding his bike.

Henry C. Porter's Homegoing Service ---viewing will be held on Friday, 02/13/09 from 6pm-8pm at Hillside Chapel.

Funeral service and location: Saturday, Feb. 14, 2009 at 1:00pm
Rose Hills Memorial Park and Mortuary
Hillside Chapel (enter through Gate 17)
3888 Workman Mill Road
Whittier, CA 90601
(562) 699-0921

Repast: TBA

Any questions or concern, please contact Daughters Shelly Clark (562)375-5483 and Shontia Porter-Scott (213) 200-3003

Altadena Connection

The "Altadena Connection 2009" (Community Resource Guide from L.A. County) was recently delivered to residents in The Meadows via US Mail.

A pdf version has been posted on the Altadena TownCouncil website. There is a link from the Home Page to download the pdf. Its a big file (4MB) but a very nice publication.

http://altadenatowncouncil.org/index.html

Food Co-Op

In other parts of the country, food cooperative stores are quite common but they’re rare in Southern California.

Co-op benefits include greater access to local, organic and sustainable products; less driving to distant health food stores; more information about the food we eat; a greater sense of community.

A group of interested people is researching what it will take to open such a community grocery business in the Altadena area. They can use your help in shaping how such a store would operate here.

They’ve just launched a web site to bring others into the process.
Please visit it at:
http://www.altadenawantsacoop.com/

More Trash Talk

Neighbors,

Sorry to bother you with more trash talk, but we are still tweaking the list of service to be offered in the proposed trash hauling contract. There is some confusion over the issue of back yard pick up and scooter service. We will be getting clarification of what that service will be and what the proposed surcharge should be for that service. However, Public Works needs some help in determining what the proposed cost should be.

To help in that process Public Works has asked for some information from us on what we are now paying for back yard scooter service. It is not a simple question of asking the current haulers since there seems not to be a single answer. When Council was investigating the trash issue, residents reported to us many differing monthly prices, in one case two residents next door to each other with identical service from the same company reported different monthly prices.

If you currently get back yard pick up service, would you help us and let me know your current monthly or quarterly cost for that service. Also, we are particularly interested in where you live. We are trying to see if there is a price difference between the narrow foothill streets like Stonehill and Zane Grey and other areas with less challenging streets.

I, for example, currently get back yard scooter service from Allied, live on Morslay Rd. (a regular street) and my last invoice was for $156.74 for the quarter.

If you don't want to respond in public you can email me directly at esund@charter. net or 794-9609.

Thanks for your help

Gino

S.A.F.E. Landscapes Calendars

As a New Year's present, the Meadows Fire Safe Council is distributing calendars this weekend to all The Meadows homes. Enjoy!

Garden Contributions

A HUGE thanks to all of you who contributed to maintaining the gardens at the Meadows sign. Thirteen households have contributed and have put us in a good position to pay the bills. Additional contributions are welcome.

Again, thanks.

Good Numbers to Keep on Hand

From the recent Altadena Connection magazine that came in the mail the other day:

Graffiti Removal
To report neighborhood graffiti and request removal. call (800) 675-HELP or online at http://ladpw.org/go/graffiti

Code Enforcement
For code enforcement issues and much more, call 2-1-1, 24 hours, 7 days a week

Large Commercial Vehicle Restrictions
The L.A. County Board of Supervisors approved an amendment to the Altadena Community Standards District restricting the parking of commercial vehicles weighing 10,000 pounds or more. The restriction applies on all roadways and alleys in Altadena between the house of 10:00 p.m. and 6 a.m. seven days a week. To report a violation, call the Altadena Station at (626) 798-1131.

Wildlife Rehabilitator in The Meadows

Hi, my name is MaryEllen Schoeman and I live on Risinghill Road. I am a licensed wildlife rehabilitator and would like to let you all know what I do and how we can help each other. A wildlife rehabilitator is a person who is licensed by the Fish and Game Department to take in injured or orphaned local wild animals and rehabilitate them to be returned to the wild. My license is for mammals only, bobcats or smaller. However, I can help you get any animal or bird in need to the appropriate place for care.

Sometimes people fear that the presence of a rehabber means that there will be a flood of animals from other parts of the city released in the area – this will not happen, and is actually illegal to do. Rehabbers must release animals in the same general area that they were found, per Fish and Game guidelines. It is also not legal for us to trap or relocate animals, although I can give you advice if you have a problem with nuisance wildlife. If you have any concerns about having a wildlife rehabilitator in the area, please contact me so that we can talk about it. If there is enough interest I will be happy to host a community meeting at my home to discuss the issues.

Should you find an injured or orphaned animal, the first thing to do is observe the animal for a while to see if it really is injured or orphaned. Many animals may leave their babies alone for various amounts of time (deer especially), so an 'abandoned' baby may just be waiting for mama to return. If the mother does not return or the animal is clearly injured, the next thing to do is call me. I can be reached at 626-354-4105. I will need to ask you some questions about the animal to make a determination of what to do. If the animal is in need of care, I will come to your house to pick it up, or you can arrange to bring it to me. I can also be reached via email at maryellenks@gmail.com. Please do not bring me an animal without contacting me first.

Last but not least, we do not get paid for our efforts and all our expenses come out of our own pockets. I am always looking for cages, so if you have any unused animal cages (birdcages, aquariums, pet crates, etc.) I would appreciate it if you would consider donating them to me. Tupperware-type containers (WITH lids) from shoe box size up to large size, are also useful for caging. I also need pretty much any fabric – blankets, sheets, towels, comforters, t-shirts, etc. Stuffed toys are always welcome, for the baby animals to snuggle against, and heating pads to keep them warm and cozy.


Thanks for your time!
-- MaryEllen SchoemanEditor/Writer
http://animallife.bellaonline.com/

Sunset from El Prieto Road

A gorgeous shot of the sunset last Saturday night from the backyard of a home on El Prieto Road. Thanks to the El Prieto neighbor for this beautiful pic.

Meadows Quarterly Update Launched this Weekend

Hopefully, you've noticed the relaunch of the Meadows Newsletter, now known as "Meadows Quarterly Update". The paper quarterly is being headed by Latrell Moore and is being left on your mailboxes this weekend.

Latrell felt it was important that all neighbors receive updates about the neighborhood, especially those who do not read email or this blog.

If you have any information that will make an impact to our community, you're welcome to call Latrell at (626) 399-5779 or comment to this blog and I'll pass to Latrell.

Thanks Latrell for the work you're doing!

Kitchen Fire at Apartments

On Saturday at around 4:00 p.m., there was, what appeared to be, a kitchen fire in one of the apartments on Aralia. Smoke could be seen coming from the unit. The Fire Department responded in force. I counted three engines and a paramedic team at the site. No doubt that the current red flag status spurred such a big response.

Everyone seemed to be fine at the site.

Anyone Know About It?

From a neighbor:

"At approximately 10:00am on Tuesday January 23, 2009 while on my way to an appointment, I and my spouse saw about 4 sheriff's vehicles rounding Canyon Crest Road at high speeds with emergency lights going and sirens blaring.

Does anyone know what happened that day? I am just wondering.... it seemed like a big deal. "

On the Look-out

From a neighbor:

"The owner of the vacant lot at the top of Risinghill Road, which includes the Owen Brown grave site, has returned to the area recently and is believed to be sleeping in his truck most evenings at the top of the driveway.

Of utmost concern are the numerous reports that not only has he been seen smoking among the dry brush, but he is also dropping cigarette butts in the brush. We are working with the county to resolve this issue - but in the meantime, we all need to be on alert for the worst case scenario.

If anyone is able to photograph or video tape him smoking in the hills (and / or throwing trash over the hillside which he is also apparently doing) we are trying to compile evidence of his activities.

BE SAFE, and alert your neighbors!"

Solicitation in The Meadows

From a neighbor:

"A young man identifying himself as a neighbor (that lived on Loma Alta), and as a student from San Diego State University, came to my house today selling books (a version of the magazine scam) that would be donated to Children's Hospital, Orange County as a fundraiser for him to attend a college trip to London. He is part of a nationwide scam. If you come across him (gave the name Craig Trautman) or anyone with a similar MO, please report their whereabouts immediately to the Altadena Sheriff's station. These type of individuals have been involved in burglaries and other crimes, and are currently roaming our neighborhood."

Also know that solicitation is not allowed in Altadena.

Millard Canyon Conservation Project Update

From our neighbor on Canyon Crest:

I'm scheduling our first Volunteer Day 2009 for this coming Saturday, January 10 for more weed removal in Millard Canyon. As usual, Volunteers will meet at my driveway at 9am sharp for a short hike into the canyon where we will remove invasive plant species (weeds) for about 4 hours, after which we will hike back out, go home and feel good in the knowledge that we have actually done something to help improve the environment!

This is a great way to start putting those New Year resolutions to work (and deal with any excess holiday poundage that may have accumulated).

For those of you who aren't familiar with the program, I'll reiterate:
wear hiking boots and long pants, and bring a long sleeve shirt.
Gloves, tools, water and snacks will be provided--we just want your bodies!

Meet 9am at:
3617 Canyon Crest Road
Altadena, 91001

Any questions? Call me at 626-398-6471 or email vht@att.net

Hope I see you there! Thanks,
Mike Hickman

Landowner Returns

A neighbor in The Meadows wanted everyone to know that the owner of land at Little Round Top has returned. In the past, hikers were confronted by the owner who did not want them crossing through his land. The confrontations were heated at times. A court order allows hikers access on the trail that crosses his land.

Some Great Pics of a Mountain Lion

This mountain lion was seen near La Vina near Sunset Ridge. A great pic from Bob on Risinghill Rd.

El Prieto Trail Changes

A huge brush pile cuts off the downstream side access to a trail
segment (visible at upper right) and also forms a dam across El
Prieto Creek. This segment bypassed "Boulder Water Canyon".

Three alternate-route segments of the El Prieto Trail were blocked off on Saturday, December 6, with barricades of dead wood, tree branches, brush and stone, by a volunteer work crew of 40 people organized by CORBA (Concerned Off-Road Bicyclists Association), citing illegality of the alternate segments and an unwillingness to maintain the segments in question. In addition, the brush pile now forms a dam across El Prieto creek.

One of the three segments was built in 2001 as a safer alternative to the existing segments, after a biker had tumbled down a cliff from the trail above, was injured and had to be airlifted out of the canyon.

A second segment was built to bypass a portion of the trail that is usually flooded with a shallow stream in winter, making the stretch difficult to negotiate by hikers, since steep sides and vegetation prevented walking alongside, and hikers would negotiate the stretch by hopping from one boulder to another. The stretch was aptly dubbed “Boulder Water Canyon” by the locals.

These two segments were constructed by volunteers without the NEPA (National Environmental Protection Agency) review demanded by the Forest Service. The builders were not aware that such a review was required.

A third segment is believed to be part of the original trail that was abandoned in favor of a route more challenging to the mountain-biking community. All three of the blocked-off segments provide a less strenuous hike or ride than the parts of the trail they bypass, and they have been adequately maintained by the individuals who built them.

An additional issue is that a huge brush pile cuts off the downstream side access to a trail segment (visible at upper right) and also forms a dam across El Prieto Creek. This segment bypassed "Boulder Water Canyon"

CORBA is an organization of mountain-bikers claiming to be operating with the blessing of the Forest Service. Its members regularly volunteer their services in maintaining or building the trails that are used in their sport.

Garden Funds Drying Up

I had posted a request a couple of months ago regarding the maintenance of the garden at the Welcome to The Meadows sign.

It costs approximately $35-50 per quarter for paying the water bill and hiring some helpers to maintain the garden. In the past, we had asked attendees of the monthly meetings for contributions. That worked well and we were able to reimburse the homeowner who oversees the maintenance.

Since we have not had meetings, there hasn't been any way to collect money.

When I posted earlier, two neighbors generously contributed money to the garden fund. While very much appreciated, those contributions won't pay for even one quarter.

Given the fact that there are 246 households in The Meadows, I'm hoping that more neighbors will contribute to the garden fund. Folks can mail or drop off a contribution in my mailbox. I'm at 4416 El Prieto. Checks can be made out to Greg Stanton. We don't have a separate account for The Meadows, so everyone will just need to trust that I keep these funds dedicated to the garden.

Thanks,
Greg

Trash Contract Update

This is rather long, but a good update on the L.A. County process of awarding new trash pick-up contracts in Altadena.

From Gino Sund, Chair of Town Council:Treatise on Trashhttp://www.altadenablog.com/2008/12/a-treatise-on-trash-or-where-were-at-now.html

Based on the comments I have heard and seen, there are some misconceptions about the upcoming trash hauling contract for Altadena. So, please let me offer my perspective on the issue and perhaps clear up some questions that have been raised.

The current situation in Altadena
Currently, Altadena operates under an open market system. That means there is no County control or oversight over who offers hauling services, what those services are, how they operate or how they are priced. Thus anyone who wants to be in the business can collect your trash. This can range from the major haulers like Allied and Athens to some guy with a pickup truck. Currently there are around seven haulers in Altadena, including a guy with a pickup truck. These haulers offer a variety of services and charge what the market will bear. There is not adequate control of such things as collection days, services offered, billing practices or recycling performance.

How things have changed
In September of 2004, the County Board of Supervisors passed a law changing the unincorporated portion of the County to a franchise trash hauling system. With this law, in order to collect residential trash, a hauler must now be franchised by the County and all non franchise haulers will be barred from this business. To date, the County has franchised haulers in thirteen different communities in LA County and is about to do so in Altadena. When a franchise is established, a detailed contract is awarded, a hauler is selected by the County through a bidding process and the County oversees the performance of that hauler. Typically the contract period is seven years.

Why Town Council is involved
About two years ago, the County sent out a questionnaire to residents of Altadena asking such things as how many trash cans they used, what kind of trash is offered for collection, and how many haulers the residents wanted. This questionnaire was a small yellow post card. Do you remember getting it? Most people don’t. It could easily have been mistaken for junk mail and it gave little explanation of what the issues really were. Then, about two months ago, the County was about to request bids on the contract for Altadena that would define our trash hauling for the next seven years. Several of us on Council were concerned that the community input on this was inadequate, so we stopped the process to allow us to review the contract and to gather more input from the residents. Thus, we are now asking for your input on the two important issues that we can affect at this point; what should be in the service provisions of the contract and should we have a single hauler or two haulers.

The conditions of the contract
Whoever is the franchise hauler or haulers will operate under a single contract that is offered by the County. That contract will spell out such things as the scope of services i.e. the number, type and amount of pick ups, the type of containers, the provisions for price increases, the recycling requirements, and the conditions under which the contract can be terminated.

While many of the contract provisions are fairly standard for all communities, it is important that the scope of services of our contract meet the needs of Altadena. This is the area of the contract that will most influence our weekly interface with the hauler. Attached is a schedule of the service provisions of the contract. Council has worked with the Department of Public Works to beef up several areas, especially the collection of green waste since we have large, leafy lots in Altadena. However, we are still looking for input from you to help us decide on what is best for most residents.

A single hauler or two haulers
This may be the most controversial and confusing issue. When the County sent out its post card survey, it asked if residents wanted an exclusive, semi exclusive or multi hauler program. The majority of respondents requested semi exclusive or two haulers. However, there was no explanation of what this really meant. Most of us thought that having two haulers would, through the mechanism of competition, give us more options, better service and lower prices. However, this may not be the case. The contract will be the same for a single hauler or two haulers so there will be no differences in the services provided. And as for price, the competition will come at the front end of the process when the haulers bid for the contract. In fact, experience has indicated that a lower price is attained when the provider has a larger customer guarantee, since among other factors, there is a capital outlay required to service the area. As for the weekly performance by the providers, the County will oversee the compliance with the contract for one or two haulers.

Of the thirteen contracts already awarded by the County, all have been exclusive contracts. The average price for service has been around 10% less that the previous price of the open market, with generally more services provided. The County reports that the customer satisfaction has been high with few resident complaints to date.

Arguments for the single hauler are:
• More bidders for the contract thus lower prices.
• Fewer trucks on the streets,
• Fewer pickup dates. (this is big issue in many neighborhoods especially those who border Pasadena who collects trash on shared streets adding yet another day)
• Reduced pollution and road wear.
• More community involvement by the provider. (in other communities the provider is a regular at the Town Council meetings to hear from the residents)

Arguments for two haulers are:
• Two haulers may compete by being more helpful to the residents
• Two haulers may compete by adding services not covered by the contract. (however, this has happened in the bidding process by providers who wish to enhance their chance of getting the contract, again the competition up front)

What happens now
We need your input on the scope of services provided in the contract, in particular green waste pick up. We would also like your thoughts on the single provider approach.Town Council will debate and recommend contract conditions at the December 16th meeting. The County will then make a request for bids to the industry, select the winner based on a formula that includes price, financial capacity, past history etc. Depending on the winner, as determined by the County, implementation could be from 4 to 6 months after the franchise is awarded.

Who will get the bid
Of course we don’t know. It is expected that both Allied and Athens will bid for the Altadena franchise. However, I find it most interesting that of the thirteen franchises awarded so far, those two large haulers were only awarded three. Most of the franchises were awarded to medium sized haulers. The feedback from those managing the bidding process is that those medium sized haulers are more likely to bid on an exclusive franchise than if a semi exclusive franchise is offered.

What you need to do
If you have input to give Town Council please contact you Census Tract Representative. The contact information is on the Town Council web site. As an alternative you may want to come to our next meeting at the Community Center starting at 7:00 p.m. on December 16th.

Thank you for your time and interest.
Gino Sund
Altadena Town Council

Trash to Treasure

At the next Altadena Town Council, the County will discuss a new trash contract.

Tuesday Dec. 16th, 2008 starting at 7 p.m.

A chart of what the county may offer is here:
http://www.altadenablog.com/2008/11/town-council-to-consider-new-trash-contract-at-dec-meeting.html

Want Fries with that Shake?

From one of our neighbors, a movie she put together on the projects she's involved in and the Great Southern California Shakeout.

It can be found at http://quakesim.jpl.nasa.gov

Sunset

Here's a beautiful pic of a sunset the other day from one of our neighbors. Granted, its beauty is due to all the smoke in the air. So, a little beauty from all the challenging events.

Upcoming Garbage Issues

From Alice Wesson, our Towncouncilperson:

A few town council folks will be meeting with the county and DPW next week regarding upcoming trash contracts, to ask about what is possible, what is being offered and how the county can help. We want to start this discussion prior to Dept of Public Works doing a presentation to town council.

I'd like to be sure our needs are being heard and understood. While I represent northwest Altadena, on this issue I welcome comments from all over Altadena.

If folks have specific concerns they wish to share, please let me know offline. Your names will not be used. I will only use the street name to give a sense of the issues related to a neighborhood.
I can be reached at awessen@yahoo.com

Some concerns previously shared:

SPECIAL PICKUPS
• (Loma Alta) Wants more than 2 bulky item pickups per year
• (Jaxine) Allied trash collectors last week failed to pick up properly tied green waste and just left them stacked against our wall. Usually, those bundles are picked up with no problem at all, but recently we've begun having problems with stuff getting left behind.
PRICING
• (Loma Alta) Senior discounts?
• For the regular service Athens is the same rate as Allied who currently picks up our trash on Leilani (for the base rate).
• (Alzada Road) I support an exclusive franchise, so we can get a good rate with some accountability. We have two trash haulers now competing in a free-for-all situation - our costs are high and service is terrible.
• (Jaxine) I am in favor of the County requiring Allied or Athens to offer us decent services on a contract basis. With a contract, the County can hold our trash collectors' feet to the fire and be sure we are all charged fairly. Right now, Allied seems to be under no obligation to be consistent in what it charges each household nor do they guarantee a fair rate for their services. There's no oversight with clout from the County or any other agency, is there?
• (Fair Oaks) Don’t know who to call to help with issues when my own trash company won’t help
• (Chaney Trail) I support one contract
• (Jaxine, multiple neighbors) Allied Waste Services has us all on different rate charges and different levels of service (how many bundles will be picked up, for example).
• (Jaxine) Allied has become inconsistent in what they pick up and what they charge, house to house and street to street. Two houses next to each other, yet charged different rates (155 and 153 Jaxine)
•
RECYCLING ISSUES
• (Alzada/Leilani)No co-mingling
• (Leilani) Concern that *most* of the recycling be actually recycled, and not just CRV items
• (Alzada) If the garbage companies are required to separate at their site, why not have a single truck pick up on garbage day and be done with it?
• (Leilani) Allied had no answer to why our separated recyclables and green waste get thrown in the same bin with junk trash.
• (Multiple neighbors on Jaxine)We notice that separated green waste and recyclables get collected separately from trash at residences down the hill, while our recyclables and green waste get thrown into the same bin with regular garbage on the small trucks they send up Jaxine Drive. This has been noticed by other neighbors, as well. Allied claims that the various types of waste get separated by the company later.


TRUCK SIZE/NUMBER OF TRUCKS
• (Alzada) Truck size, a big issue with roads in the Chaney Trail area (big trucks tear up the roads). For emergency access, the issue of the roads breaking up is serious!
• (Risinghill Rd) Likes Athens because they have only one truck coming up our narrow road rather than three
• (Leilani) Does not like Athens because they want to charge 100% higher rate to drive the little truck up Leilani Way
• (Alzada) We have 2 or 3 haulers coming on different days!
• (Alzada) Multiple trucks being used causing noise, pollution and street wear
• (Alzada) Echoes the concern about the size of the trucks that are being used. They are totally huge, causing damage to our road and our trees, in addition to being a hazard to car traffic.

OTHER
• (Alzada) Bear resistant trash cans?

Measure TT

On Tuesday Nov. 4th the communities of Pasadena, Altadena, and Sierra Madre passed Measure TT by an overwhelming majority (74.5%). This is a public schools facilities improvement bond.

The district is required to establish an independent Citizens' Oversight Committee to scrutinize how bond funds are allocated and spent. The Oversight Committee must include representation from the business community, a taxpayers' organization, a senior citizens' organization, and parents; it may not include any District employees. The Oversight Committee will meet at least quarterly, publish an annual report, and alert the school board and community to any unauthorized use of funds.

An application for membership in the Citizen's Oversight Committee to monitor Measure TT is available online (http://www.pusd.us/docs/tt/COC_Application.pdf). Applications are due no later than December 31, 2008.

Altadena and Lincoln Development

The developer for the property at the corner of Lincoln and Altadena Drive is looking to the community to help find appropriate vendors for the area.

If you know of potentially interested vendors, please contact Ernest Brambila at:
Alliance Commercial Properties
Tel # 626-570-8289
Fax# 626-943-7401
ejbrambila@sbcglobal.net

One potential vendor for development at corner of Lincoln and Altadena is Howie’s Ranch Market. They are located in San Gabriel. Owner’s name is Bob and their # is 626-286-8871. http://www.yelp.com/biz/howies-ranch-market-san-gabriel

From the developer:
"Thank you for your continued interest. We do have some small leases signed but could use help in trying to attract a higher end Market. We have had continued conversations with Howie's and even though they have delivery customers in LaVina and La Canada, they haven't committed.
I would imagine if he started getting calls of encouragement it might help. The owners name is Bob and their # is 626-286-8871. I believe they're the type of grocer the neighborhood would love to have."

Millard Canyon Conservation Project

Next date for working with the Millard Canyon Conservation Project is as follows:

Next work day is Saturday, November 8 at 9am. Meet at Mike Hickman's 3617 Canyon Crest Rd. Altadena, 91001.

From Mike:
"As usual, we will meet in my driveway at 9am sharp, take a short hike into the canyon and work for 3 1/2 to 4 hours. Gloves, tools, water and snacks will be provided. Long pants and hiking boots are a must and I recommend bringing a long sleeve shirt. If you have any questions, you can contact me at (626) 398-6471 or vht@att.net.

Thanks again for your support and I look forward to seeing you soon!"

Mike Hickman

Cougar Attacks Increasing

A note from our TownCouncil person. A little log, but plenty of good information:

Cougar attacks on dogs are increasing in our region. In two incidents this week, one dog died and two were seriously injured (Monrovia & Glendora). In cases to date, the dogs involved had been left unattended in a back yard.I

n addition a cougar was spotted on Canon street and up in Millard in the last few days.

We live in Cougar Country and want to take precautions to keep all of us, including mountain lions, safe! Here's some great information on preventing attacks.

Cougars, along with other predators including bears, coyotes, foxes, and bobcats, frequently travel down local canyons and streambeds from higher elevations into the Altadena foothills, seeking water and prey in nearby chaparral and oak woodland. This region is their home, as well as ours. Mountain lions (Puma concolor) are generally elusive and unlikely to attack people; however, they are also large and powerful wild cats that will sometimes kill and eat domestic dogs and small livestock.

Be aware of your surroundings. Assume that a cougar is nearby, especially at dawn, dusk and at night. At the same time, keep the danger in perspective. In spite of their presence all around us, cougar attacks are extremely rare. You and your dog are far more likely to be killed by a car, than attacked by a mountain lion. There are a few basic precautions we can all take to reduce the risk of confrontation with these magnificent big cats.

Protect Dogs & Keep Cougars Wild!
The California Dept. of Fish & Game seldom captures and relocates mountain lions. If a cougar poses a potential public threat, it will be killed. Your actions affect both the safety of your companion animals and the cougar's survival. Please…

-Keep dogs, other pets & small livestock indoors, in secure barns,or outdoor enclosures. Even large dogs left unattended in backyards near wild areas are vulnerable to attack, especially by mountain lions and coyotes. Standard fences and walls will not stop a cougar. Enclosures must have a sturdy roof.

-If a cougar is observed while you are outdoors, do not approach it closely or block its escape routes. Do not turn your back on the cat, panic or run. Face the cougar upright, yell at it in an aggressive, loud voice, and throw rocks or other objects in hand at the cougar. Wait for the cat to leave before leaving yourself.

- If you or your dog are attacked, fight back. Cougars will often drop dogs and flee when owners chase them or attack with sticks or other improvised weapons.

- Avoid hiking, running & biking alone, especially at dawn, dusk and during the evening. Keep a close watch on small children and dogs while on trails or in day use areas of the Forest.

-Do not encourage your dog to chase or attack a cougar. A cougar may obligingly retreat up a tree defend itself by maiming or killing the dog.

Help keep all of us, including mountain lions, safe!

FireSafe Council Needs Volunteers

The Meadows FireSafe Council has reconvened and is working on the upcoming fuel reduction project.

We're in need of additional volunteers to join the FireSafe Council.

It's a great way to meet your neighbors while achieving significant progress in making The Meadows a fire-safe neighborhood.

The FireSafe Council meets once a month. The effort includes coordinating assessments of properties, working with brush clearance and tree vendors in completing the work, contacting neighbors, and feeling a great sense of accomplishment.

Please consider joining and dedicating some time to the effort. We promise you'll find wonderful camaraderie and a true sense of accomplishment.

Bear Update

A neighbor on lower El Prieto reported that a bear (with longish fur) arrived on their front door steps at about 5:00 a.m. in pursuit of their persimmon harvest. The assumption is that the bear is coming out of El Prieto Canyon.

With other reports about a bear at the top of Risinghill, this makes me thank we may have multiple bears visiting our neighborhood.

I'd love to post some pictures if anyone has them.

Hunter Update With Instruction

The following was provided by our Town Councilperson regarding the issues with a hunter in our area:

If you encounter the hunter(s) described below, please contact your Sheriff Department immediately at 626-798-1131. We also need documentation, so please contact Cal-TIP: Californians Turn In Poachers To Report a Poacher or Polluter.

If you witness a poaching or polluting incident or any fish and wildlife violation, or have information about such a violation, immediately dial the toll free CalTIP number1 888 DFG-CALTIP (888 334-2258), 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Be prepared to give the fullest possible account of the incident including the name, address, age and description of the suspect, vehicle description, direction of travel, license number, type of violation and when and where it occurred. You do not have to give your name.

We have some local officers who would appreciate any updates. Department of Forest and Games enforcement officer, Marty Whal, requested info. from anyone who has encountered the man recently. He will also inform George Strubel, who is a member of the Sheriffs mountain search and rescue and also a DFG officer (retired cop, too). Once you call the Sheriffs and then Caltip, Marty Whal can follow up.

We also recommend posting "No Hunting" signs with the proper DFG codes on them.

Description: African-American, late 20's possibly 30, usually wears a camouflage hoodie and drives a white Bronco (lic# 1FEC322) and sometimes has a Caucasian hunting partner with him. The older hunter is African-American, possibly 50ish, camouflaged out (including war paint make-up) and drives a beat up reddish/crimson-ish van with the back windows blacked out. He has been known to start a fire as diversion to escape. He has also been known to threaten folks who come across him with a gun and/or bow and arrow.

Please use extreme caution.

Millard Canyon Conservation Project Needs Volunteers

Here's information about a conservation effort that is being led by our neighbors on lower Canyon Crest. They're in need of volunteers to help with the effort:

"We are doing more than picking up trash; at this point we are removing infestations of several weeds that are choking the stream and completely covering the terrain in the lower canyon. We remove trash in the project area also, but the weeds are the primary objective as they severely alter the habitat opportunities for wildlife and crowd out the native plant growth.

Our intention is to restore the project area to a healthy native ecosystem and maintain it as such. Our hope is to eventually restore the entire area from the hairpin turn to the Arroyo Seco, which will require coordination with both city and county agencies, so at this time we are concentrating on an area about 1000 feet in length midway between those points where we hope to set an example for others to follow.

We supply gloves and tools, snacks and water. The work is difficult but rewarding, and you couldn't ask for a more beautiful place to be.

We meet at my driveway at 9am and take a short (but steep) hike into the canyon and work for 3 1/2 to 4 hours. Volunteers should contact me prior to a work day so I can be sure we have enough gloves and equipment for all.

Long pants and hiking boots are a must. I recommend bringing a long sleeve shirt also.

Mike Hickman

vht@att.net, or by phone at
626.398.6471

More Caution Regarding the Hunters

From a neighbor:

"[Two hikers], who are not Meadows residents but are here 6 days a week, usually between 6 and 6:30 AM with their 2 dogs and who walk the trail up towards the saddle, came across a fresh batch (shopping bag full) of dog food that was purposely placed next to where the bear comes down onto the trail and where many deer reside.

[These folks] are usually the first to spot something new/out of place/wrong and always let [The Meadows neighbor] know.

Considering the method in which the food was placed, it appears that this food was being used to lure the bear and/or deer. This is not only highly illegal (using food to entrap AND on the trail) but extremely dangerous. I have not seen the hunters since the ugly incident last week with the police, and suspect that hunters are now coming in through Millard.

As I have the license plates of the hunters, I am going to speak to the camp host at Millard and make them and the residents aware. I believe that we owe the residents of the Meadows a word of warning. I fear for their safety should they run across these hunters. [Another neighbor] was spot-on when she said that these aren't 'hunters' in the true sense of the word. These are dangerous men with guns who have no respect for the sport of hunting, and even less for hikers or anyone that they may encounter on the trail. We need to be extra aware and vigilant when on the trails until something can be done."

Internet Connection Door-to-Door

Several of us have had a person cme to our door to solicit Internet upgrades and we're trying to determine if this is a legitimate AT&T employee or a scam.

In my case, the man appeared to be a legit AT&T employee who told me that the recent upgrades in the neighborhood would require me to change from my AT&T DLS service to fiber optic. He had been walking door-to-door on El Prieto prior to coming to my house.

In another case, a person came to a neighbor's house three times this week. She wasn't sure of the purpose of the solicitation as someone else at the house was home at the time. This neighbor did contact the Sheriff who did not think that AT&T was here in the neighborhood soliciting. The Sheriff said he would send additional patrol cars to our neighborhood.

Looking for any other insight from others who have had a similar experience. The Sheriff asked that we call them if the person(s) are in the neighborhood again so that they can question him/her.

Only $1 Left

The garden at The Meadows sign is maintained by one of our neighbors who pays for water and general clean-up. We've reimbursed her for the costs out of money that was collected at our monthly meetings. Since we've not had those meetings, we haven't collected any additional money. After reimbursing her the other day, we have one dollar left.

Please consider donating some money to this fund. We don't have a "Meadows" account, so you'll need to trust that I'll be responsible with the money. Anyone interested can write a check to me (Greg Stanton) and drop it off at my house or mail it to me. I'm at 4416 El Prieto Rd., Altadena, CA 91001.

Thanks,
Greg

Hunting Increases

Reported from our neighbors on Risinghill:

"Meadows residents on Risinghill have noticed the rapidly increasing presence of hunters in the area, especially up towards the end and on the private property of our neighbor at the very end of Risinghill.

These hunters have a documented history of animosity (and in one instance, physical threats) towards hikers and dog walkers they encounter. "

AT&T Box Quieted

Thanks to a neighbor who is in management at AT&T, the terminal at the Welcome to the Meadows garden was retro-fitted and quieted. The neighbor escalated the issue in AT&T and got it resolved! The affected neighbors are quite pleased with the improvement.

Thanks for great networking!

Key Found on Canyon Crest

This key was found on Canyon Crest. If it's yours, please email me and I'll connect you with the neighbor who found it.

The Cubs are Playing (not the baseball team)

Looks like our neighborhood is growing!

A guest of a Meadows resident recently saw two cougar cubs run across the street in front of his car at the hairpin turn on Canyon Crest. It happened at 10:30 pm.

Keys Found

A neighbor found a set of keys laying in the street on Canyon Crest near the noisy AT&T box. It is 2 rings. One has what looks like a house key and another smaller key. The other ring has a Chrysler key and car remote control. If you know who these belong to or they are yours, call Patrick Coleman at 626-354-1601.

Deer Blind in El Prieto Canyon

A neighbor in The Meadows reported this weekend that he dismantled, for the second time, a deer blind built in an Oak Tree in El Prieto.

For those unfamiliar, a deer blind is a perch that is built up in the trees so that a hunter with bow and arrow can stalk the deer for an easier kill. The neighbor reported that the deer blind is just above an area where the deer rest.

The deer blind was found in the Oak Tree that is to the south of the trail that leads to El Prieto Canyon. The best way I can describe the location is to say that when you're walking down the path from El Prieto Road, it is not the first big Oak Tree in the clearing. Instead of turning into the narrow path that leads to El Prieto trail on the right, go to the left through the brush to the second large Oak Tree.

Please use caution, but be on the lookout for these blinds and any evidence of hunters.

And thanks to the efforts of our neighbor in protecting the wildlife around us.

Noisy AT&T Boxes

A note from a neighbor at the corner of Canyon Crest, near the "Welcome to The Meadows" sign.

"As you have probably noticed there were 2 AT&T boxes installed in the Meadows garden near the sign. While I think they are ugly, they appeared harmless. About 2 weeks ago, one of those boxes was activated and our property and home is now plagued by an incessant fan and noise. (The other neighbors around us have expressed concern as well.)

We have contacted the Altadena Towncouncilman, Sarge Gibbs, but the resolution is not very quick. We would appreciate any suggestions on how to battle a corporate giant from others in the neighborhood.

I also want you to know that we are placing our trash cans (just leaves / grass) in front of the box to calm the noise. I don't want the neighborhood to think these were left by accident - it is intentional to help us get some peace at night. I am also hoping that by informing the neighborhood that these are our trash cans we can avoid them being stolen as well."

Missing Tennessee Walker Hound

This was posted as a comment to one of the blog articles. Not sure who sent it, but if you see this dog, please contact me and I'll post to the blog.

"Has anyone seen a Tennessee Walker Hound named Ziggy wandering around? He is 12 years old and has gray fur on his muzzle an looks like a large Beagle. He has a chip, so the owner is looking for him at the local shelters, but I thought that someone might have seen him wandering around Loma Alta park in the last couple of days. "

Quick Mountain Lion Update

From a neighbor driving out of The Meadows:

"I saw the mountain lion this morning on the way to work. As I came out of the hairpin turn by the creek, he ran across the road, right in front of me. By the time I grabbed the camera, he was up the side of the hill out of sight. I'll catch a picture of him sooner or later."

Activity in The Canyon

I heard from a neighbor a few months ago that they were concerned about Santaria activity in Millard Canyon below the hairpin turn on Canyon Crest. They had found evidence of candles being lit in a canyon very vulnerable for fire. Here is an email I received from a neighbor on lower Canyon Crest:

"I'm writing to let you know of some disturbing activities in Millard Canyon just below the hairpin turn. Someone has apparently been conducting Santaria rituals in the woods and along the stream in this area. This has involved slaughtering chickens, smoking cigars and burning candles in dry brushy areas (apparently at night).

Some of the other materials used are coconuts, rum, piles of cinnamon bark and many spent matchbooks and other ritual debris. Over the past two years my friends and I have noted the carcasses of several chickens, ritual sites, and recently, a large joint of rotting meat and bone hanging from a tree in a plastic bag. The frequency of the activities seems to have increased lately.

My neighbor ran an online search regarding Santaria, and it seems all the materials I've mentioned are used in rituals. A person with the San Gabriel Mountains Regional Conservancy said this type of activity goes on in several of the foothill canyons along the San Gabriels.

Now, I consider myself a religiously tolerant person, but I draw the line at people killing chickens and playing with matches in the woods around here. I think this would be a concern for many Meadows residents since a wildfire originating from this area would likely block the only way out of the Meadows and wreak havoc."

One of our Towncouncilpersons has contacted the sheriff. Capt. Blow is sending a deputy to investigate.

Environmentalist's Rendezvous Picnic

Environmentalist's Rendezvous Picnic

Saturday, September 13th

Join leaders of Pasadena-area environmental groups in an informal setting and learn about their activities and programs. Gather at 4:30 pm, informal presentations at 5:00 pm, potluck picnic at 6 pm, under the oaks at Eaton Canyon Park Outdoor Classroom.

The Classroom is south of the Nature Center located at 1750 North Altadena Drive, Pasadena. From the 210 Freeway in Pasadena, take Altadena Drive north about 1.5 miles; about 500 feet after crossing New York Drive, turn right into the park.

All are welcome. Bring a dish serving 6-8 people. Beverages, plates and utensils will be provided. For information and to RSVP, contact coordinator Ginny Heringer at 626-793-4727 or ginnyh@ix.netcom.com.

Environmental groups confirmed and presenting at the picnic:
Altadena Watershed Committee
Altadena Foothills Conservancy
Arroyo Seco Foundation
California Native Plant Society
Collaborative Eagle Rock Beautiful
Eaton Canyon Nature Center Associates
Hahamongna Watershed Committee
Pasadena Audubon Society
Save the Altadena Trails
Sierra Club Forest Committee
Waste Less Living

Hit and Run on Canyon Crest

From a neighbor in the 4100 block of Canyon Crest: "Last night (Sunday night) we had company over until about midnight. Two of our guests cars and our daughters car, 3 total, were hit by a hit and run driver. Two of the vehicles were on the East side of the street and the 3rd was parked on the West side across from our driveway. It happened sometime between 8:30pm and midnight. There are pieces of brake lights and mirrors we believe to belong to the hit and run driver. We did not hear anything unusual and noticed the damage this morning. When we phoned the guest that left at midnight, he checked his car and noticed damage."

From Greg - I know there were a few parties here in The Meadows last night. Any chance this is a guest of one of our neighbors? Please ask your family and friends if they have any information.

Thanks.

Food Co-op Now Forming in Altadena

An item of interest from one of our Meadows neighbors:

A group has been meeting to explore the possibility of forming a food co-op in Altadena. If you'd like to learn more or perhaps get involved, please come to this informative session on Sept. 3:

"Why and How to Start A Cooperative Grocery Store in Our Area"An Informative Presentation by Patrick Reagan, Chairman, AAFCSC September 3, 2008, at 7:30 p.m.
The Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake Avenue

Greetings All,

Thanks for your previous interest in the Altadena Area Food Co-op Steering Committee. Here's just a quick note to keep everyone updated on what's been happening with the effort to bring a consumer cooperative food store to Altadena and to invite you to join us for an upcoming organizer presentation.

We've been holding monthly meetings since March and weekly meetings all this month. Three of us have been doing most of the work so far. Fifteen others have joined our Yahoo group - they've been attending/helping as they can. We've had a field trip to Co-opportunity in Santa Monica (the only consumer co-op in LA county) where the manager was very helpful in answering questions about their operations. We've also had a fun potluck dinner with tasty local/organic food to try and lots of great people to get to know.I've been making the most of my normally quiet summer schedule by learning as much as I can about co-ops and meeting as many "co-op people" as possible.

Highlights include... - attending the Consumer Cooperative Manager's Association convention in Portland, OR, last June, - attending the Co-opportunity board of director's meeting in July, - visiting the Natural Foods Co-op in San Luis Obispo and the Isla Vista Food Co-op outside of Santa Barbara, - finding many useful books and websites that relate to co-op formation.We've found a lot of interest in our area and a lot of resources available for our effort.

Our next task is to start writing bylaws as a precursor to incorporating. In the bylaws will be details on how our co-op will operate - how memberships will be handled, how many board members will be needed, etc. We can handle this with our existing group but it would be nice to hear from more Altadena voices during this process. To help bring in these newcomers, and to better inform our existing group about co-ops, we're going to hold a presentation on Sept. 3rd

A happy coincidence is that the leading cooperative consulting group, Cooperative Development Services, is starting a free webinar series the following week. This series covers topics important to getting one of these wonderful stores started. It looks like our presentation will act as a nice orientation "springboard" into their more detailed weekly series of webinars. More information can be found at: http://cdsfood.centraldesktop.com/fc500registration/So please attend if you can. Feel free to cross-post this announcement to other blogs or message boards in our area.

We'll probably continue to meet weekly to dig into the details of co-op formation. If you're interested in joining our effort, please check out our Yahoo group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/aafcsc/

Thanks for your interest!Patrick Reagan

Important Community Meeting

The County has been trying to improve emergency response systems and planning. We have identified priority areas that are of particular concern. Both Chaney Trail and the Meadows have been identified as priority areas. We would like to meet with residents to obtain feed back as part of the planning process.

The first meeting with be on September 10th at 6:00pm at the Loma Alta Park Gym. All interested neighbors are invited.

Purpose:
The purpose of this meeting is to explain to the community the county emergency response system and planning as well as obtain feed back from the community on emergency planning issues. This interchange will help to identify community emergency planning needs and next steps need to meet the Board assignment.

Participation:
These meetings will involve representatives from lead county agencies, Supervisor Antonovich's office and representatives from the appropriate community group/neighborhood emergency preparedness group(s)

Format:
The meeting will be a panel presentation. The County will facilitate a structured discussion where we will discuss one or more emergency scenarios and each agency will explain its role and plans. Community representative/members may raise issues and ask questions and we will record any outstanding issues that need to be addressed by further discussion and or planning.

More pics

Second, pics of a deer that took time to relax in a Cheney Trail neighbor's backyard.

Great Pics

Here's some great pics from our neighbors on Cheney Trail. First is a bear that romped through a neighbor's back yard.

Summer Fine Arts Salon

Summer Fine Arts Salon by a Meadows Neighbor

A special art exhibit by Meadows neighbor and international artist, Nathaniel Bustion will be held on August 23 and 24 from 1 PM to 5 PM at 1875 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91103.

The exhibit will feature his artwork and other original fine art, clay and bronze sculpture and African wood and bronze figures. And 25% of the proceeds will support Outward Bound Los Angeles, located on Lincoln Ave. in Pasadena, a non-profit that does great work with at-risk youth.

Tarantula Sightings

A neighbor on Risinghill notes, "... we have seen several tarantulas in the area lately - one in our back yard and one strolling around at the top of Rising Hill. These animals are not dangerous and the best thing to do when you spot one is just leave it alone and keep pets and kids away from it. They are shy and if they end up in someones yard they will usually leave on their own."

Mountain Lion on Risinghill Canyon Side

A neighbor just reported that a mountain lion was seen this afternoon on the hill of the canyon on the Risinghill side. Please take caution.

National Night Out

National Night Out Tues., Aug. 5, @ Loma Alta Equestrian Center

Just received from the Altadena Sheriff's Station:
National Night Out is an event designed to strengthen our communities by encouraging neighbors to engage in stronger relationships with each other and with their local law enforcement partners. The goal is to heighten crime-prevention awareness, build support and participation in local anti-crime programs and most importantly, send a message that our neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. It’s also the perfect opportunity to get to know your neighbors even better. All are invited -- see you there.


Tuesday, August 5, 2008, 5-10 PM
Loma Alta Park Equestrian Center

Altadena Sheriff’s Station Posse and Altadena Mountain Rescue Team are scheduled to have static displays for youth. Crime Prevention and Neighborhood Watch information will be available to the public. Free giveaways for children will be available.


A new one of a kind mobile interactive educational bus that will highlight the SHARE (Stop Hate and Respect Everyone) Tolerance program for fighting hate and intolerance in our communities will be displayed.

Final MSFC Report for 2006 Grant

Can you believe the grant we worked with this year was given to us in 2006? Here's a final recap of the work performed in The Meadows these past few months.

The Meadows FireSafe Council worked with two different vendors to complete our fuel reduction project. The first part of the project was fuel reduction in 26 acres of undeveloped land adjacent to the 240 homes in the Meadows community. This work entailed the use of hand
crews to trim up bushes, clear brush, and cut down dead tree limbs.

The second part of the project took place within the developed land as 39 homes were identified as having trees that would pose a risk to the community in the event of a fire. The second vendor removed 72 trees of various sizes. These trees were selected using a criteria of those preventing access for fire department vehicles, dead and diseased trees, and fire−prone trees.

Lincoln Ave Water has completed their yearly brush clearance.

Captain Don Edwards of Camp 2 of LACoFD removed dead trees, skirted up live trees and removed three other trees to reduce fire risk to the homes in the Meadows.

Our dedicated group of volunteers continued to meet monthly and provide education to the community on the MFSC activities by handing out fliers and posting signs around the neighborhood. FSC members have also coordinated and supervised the work crews on a daily basis. In all, this portion of the project took approximately 9 weeks to complete with workers here in The Meadows daily.

We heard from many neighbors asking about tree trimming and further assessments. Since the grant funds were finite, the MFSC focused on the removal of trees as being the best use of the funds.

A new grant has been awarded to the MFSC for TWICE as much as the 2006 grant! We expect this new project will begin in late 2008 at the earliest. It's difficult to give a specific date as grant monies are metered out as they are received by the larger California FireSafe Council.

It is expected that we will continue to perform brush clearance, tree removal and hopefully tree trimming. In addition, an alert system has been built into the new grant budget. We will explore setting up a system in which neighbors can be called, emailed, texted, etc. in the event of an emergency.

Stay tuned for more news on this exciting next step. We continue to welcome more volunteers to the Meadows FireSafe Council and more involvement of our neighborhood.

Wood Chips

If you need wood chips for your garden, there's plenty to be had at the top of Risinghill Road. There are several mounds of wood chips from our tree removal efforts here in The Meadows. Wood chips are great in gardens to retain moisture during our hotter Summer months.

Lilies of the Canyon

Here's some pics of lovely Humboldt lilies growing in El Prieto canyon sent in from a neighbor.

Canyon Crest Road Clearance

The LA County Agricultural Commissioners Office, Weed Abatement is having the County Road Department do the road clearance on Canyon Crest Road. They're doing a great job.

Suspicious Characters

Our neighbor at the very top of Risinghill reported that a car with three 20-somethings may have been looking for a house to burglarize.

His ever-vigilante tenant, happened to be walking her dog last week when she noticed a car parked up by the yellow gate leading to the trails. Three 20-something guys were slinking down, obviously not wanting to be seen, but apparently casing his house. The tenant hesitated and then announced boldly, "You guys can wait for the cops to get here or leave now."

They immediately started the car and drove away. The tenant said to them as they passed her, “I have your license number.” She called the police and reported all the details.

The car is a black, late 90’s or early 2000’s Toyota Forerunner. License plate is a yellow New Mexico license plate with number 903-NSR. The driver was white, his two passengers were African-American.

Please, No Fireworks

The Meadows FireSafe Council has posted "No Fireworks" signs around the neighborhood.

Obviously, we can't risk any chance of fire given this hot, dry season. A couple of years ago, a neighbor did set off bottle rockets in the neighborhood. Please talk to your neighbors about the importance of not setting off any fireworks this Independence Day weekend.

Mail Stolen from Mailbox

A neighbor on Risinghill had their outgoing mail stolen Tuesday morning, July 1, from their mailbox. It happened between 7:30 am and 9:00 am. When another neighbor passed their mailbox this morning on the way into their driveway, she noticed the flag was up and the door was open. Inside was a torn, open gardening bill for someone else in La Canada from an Altadena address. She notified the homeowner. They had put a DVD and 2 more pieces of mail, one with a check. They were all gone!

This has been reported to the Post Office Inspections Dept. and Altadena PO and carrier. The Sheriff was called as well but they said they don't handle this and told the neighbor to call PO who have a special dept for this.

MFSC Update and Log Removal

The Meadows FireSafe Council has completed its efforts in brush clearance and tree removal in The Meadows. A full report of our success will be published on this blog and distributed to the neighborhood.

For those awaiting the log removal on the property, please know that this effort is being addressed. Hauling vendors have been contacted and will be contracted this week to remove the remaining logs. We had been using the efforts of a firewood vendor to remove the logs at no charge, but that effort has dwindled. We also had the L.A. County Fire Department removing the logs at no cost to the grant, but they've been pulled to addressed to fires in Northern California.

Vendors are submitting bids this week to complete the project at, hopefully, a small cost to the MFSC which is at the few remaining dollars left in the grant monies.

We appreciate everyone's patience as we complete this first major effort within The Meadows.

Mountain Lion Evidence

A caution for those hiking or walking down Canyon Crest:

Evidence of a mountain lion attack on a very sizable dog has been found in Millard Canyon.

Please be careful as you hike around The Meadows and for those walking down Canyon Crest. Last Summer, mountain lions were spotted at the bottom of Canyon Crest.

Habitat Rehabilitation

A new project has begun concerning habitat rehabilitation in the Lower Millard Canyon area below Canyon Crest. All of the home owners along the canyon side of Canyon Crest Road with properties that span the lower canyon have formed an ad hoc conservancy to rehabilitate and preserve the habitat and native plant communities.

This is a very sensitive and important wildlife corridor and, for the past several years, the area of Millard Canyon below the road crossing has been invaded by an increasingly varied group of non-native weeds that are choking out everything else and seriously threaten the ecosystem.

A $25,000 grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) through their "Partners for Fish and Wildlife" program has been received to begin addressing this problem. This grant represents a long term contract and commitment. The grantees are working in cooperation with the San Gabriel Mountains Regional Conservancy and have also attracted the attention of the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS).

They are hoping to get a lot of community volunteer involvement in the project. The annual work period is limited (by nesting season) to August through February. They will be seeking volunteers for that period for both weekdays and weekends.

The problems are serious and the work will be hard (but rewarding). Because of habitat sensitivities, only a limited number of volunteers can be in the project area at any one time (so sign up early!). For anyone who may be interested, contact Michael Hickman at 626-398-6471 or vht@charter.net

Sheriff's Summer Concerts

The Sheriff's Summer Concert series at Farnsworth Park is posted on the following link:


http://altadenasheriffs.org/frames/ssgaframeset.html

Click on the Summer Concert Series tab on the left-hand side.

Tree Removal Coming to a Finish

The picture above was taken this past week as the workers removed three tall, fire-prone palm trees on El Prieto Road. Two workers hung in the air as they used chainsaws to cut the trees down. Unfortunately, one worker was injured when he cut his arm and had to be taken to the hospital for stitches.

The Steven's Tree workers have done an outstanding job in removing the trees. Please know this is hard, dangerous work.

Tree removal on thirty-eight properties has been completed over the past three weeks. There are still five more properties on the list for tree removal which we will attempt to address this coming week. The remaining funds in the grant are meager and are being used to address those trees that are a fire danger for the whole community.

A separate company was engaged at no cost to remove the logs left from tree removal. This effort started this past week and will continue through the end of the grant work. Funds are also being reserved to ensure all logs are removed should the second company not complete the work.

The Meadows FireSafe Council made the decision to address only tree removal as we knew the grant funds would not cover the tree trimming that was identified in the assessments. That work will be addressed in the 2009 grant that the FireSafe Council was awarded.

The FireSafe Council has also received many requests from residents who did not participate in this past year's assessments. We're encouraged that more and more residents are now aware of the FireSafe Council efforts and want to participate in next year's grant.


In a separate effort, tree removal and trimming will occur on five properties identified within a separate grant received from Farmer's Insurance. Those funds were targetted for our senior citizens and those on fixed incomes to assist with funding.

Altadena Community Garden Picnic June 28

This is a wonderful annual event in which several Meadows neighbors participate.

The Altadena Community Garden Picnic is June 28 – Please join us!
The Altadena Community Garden is located at Loma Alta Park, 3330 Lincoln Ave., Altadena, CA (at Lincoln Avenue and Palm Streets, just north of Altadena Drive).

Sunflowers
Tomatoes
Corn on the Cob
Collard Greens
Chinese Long Beans
Sun-ripened Blackberries
Summer Squash
Jalapeno Peppers
Okra
Rhubarb
…and Other Amazing Vegetables and Flowers!

Come taste the vegetables and smell the flowers at the Altadena Community Garden Annual Picnic on Saturday, June 28! Get a garden tour, meet our friendly local group of gardeners, enjoy the sweet sounds of the Brown Mountain Jazz Band, and eat great picnic food. Last year the picnic drew a crowd of more than 200 people.

The picnic is open to the public and the community is encouraged to attend! The event runs from 1:00 p.m. to 6 p.m. There will be a raffle and a silent auction.

$8.00 for adults
$4.00 for children 6-12 years old (children 5 and under are free)

The Altadena Community Garden is located on the site of the former Mt. Lowe Military Academy. An Altadena community fixture since 1974, our diverse group of dedicated gardeners tends 59 standard and 4 handicapped-accessible garden plots at the foot of the San Gabriel Mountains. The Altadena Community Garden is recognized as one of the leading community gardens in Southern California, opening our gates to school children, field trips, and events.