Bear pic

Here's the first pic we've gotten of the younger bear.  This was taken from inside a house on Risinghill at 10:30 last night.

Great Pyrenees an Option for Critters?

Interesting info on the Great Pyrenees from a Meadows neighbor:


"There is much talk about bears and mountain lions and how to deter them. I thought neighbors should know about the many Great Pyrenees dogs available for adoption which could serve as wonderful pets while deterring the wild predators with which we all choose to live in harmony.

"They are bred to be livestock guardians and as such their instinct is to patrol their property and ward off any threat to their family whether it be human or livestock. My two Pyrs discouraged the young mountain lion from approaching the back of our property on Canyon Dell, so I can personally attest to their ability."


Some resources from GPASC Rescue volunteers.

Many Great Pyrenees available for adoption

Great Pyrenees Association Southern California Rescue has rescued every Great Pyrenees dog that was out-of-time at a shelter, pound or when an owner turned it in for the past 35 years. The dogs come from Southern and Central California and Southern Nevada. The director and volunteers have done a great service caring for them and finding homes for 1000's of gentle giants.

Because of so many people losing their homes and jobs, the rescue is very crowded. We need to find homes for more than 40 dogs in the next 2 weeks.

If you have ever had a Pyr in your family you know the calm love of these gentle giants, their allegiance to the family, their care of children and other animals. Please consider adopting one of our Pyrs.

If you have never had a Pyr, please read about Great Pyrenees to see if this breed is a match for your family:

http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/greatpyrenees.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Pyrenees

http://www.akc.org/breeds/great_pyrenees/

http://www.justdogbreeds.com/great-pyrenees.html

http://animal.discovery.com/videos/dogs-101-great-pyrenees.html



Pyr rescue has a few puppies, a number of young dogs 1-2 years, mostly adult dogs 2-6 and a few older dogs 7-9. There are photos and descriptions of each available dog on www.petfinder.com. It is easiest to access this information from the rescue's website:

http://www.greatpyrrescue.org/

You will need to have at least a 6-foot fence surrounding your yard since Pyrs jump lower fences and can wander.

They need daily exercise. They eat as much as a retriever, about 3.5 - 4 cups of kibble a day. They don't need washing as their coat protects them during all seasons. However, they do need to be brushed weekly.

If you know a Great Pyrenees is a good match for your family, please fill out an application on the website, www.greatpyrrescue.org. A volunteer will contact you shortly.

Thank you for considering a Great Pyrenees as a companion dog or flock guardian.

If you know someone who you think would enjoy such a calm, loving, and protective dog, please let them know about this opportunity.

Figs

Dale let me know that he has figs from his backyard and is offering them to anyone in the Meadows.  Dale can be reached at 408-334-8098.

Thanks Dale!

Meadows Garage Sale?

An idea has been floated for having a Meadows-wide yard sale in late September or early October.

We'd do it on a Saturday morning from 7:30 - 1 and everyone could set up their wares in their own yard. We'd then have a map for buyers to go from house to house.

Please let me know if you're interested by either responding to this post with your contact info or email me at gstanton@sbcglobal.net

Bear Aware (continued)

There has been alot of discussion this week about the bears in The Meadows.  And that was meant to be plural. Past posts have talked only about a younger bear, but it turns out there is at least one other older bear, Together, they may be mother and cub. So, thought it worth to post again to keep awareness to it.

The bears have been mostly on Risinghill and continue to go into the trash cans to forage.  They've been seen as early as 9 p.m. in neighbors' yards faraging through trash cans and eating fruit from fruit trees, particularly figs.

So, continued suggestions for living in harmony with our wildlife:

• Don't put your trash out until trash day morning.
• Keep trash cans in your garage if you have one.
• Use double trash bags to minimize the scent.
• Keep pet food inside at night.
• Harvest your fruit. If you have some to give away, let me know and I'll post to this blog to share with neighbors.
• If a bear is near your house, make loud noise (clanging of pots and pans). Bears will usually leave the scene when noise is heard.
• Also, lights deter bears.  Maybe a motion sensor light is a good solution.

Calling the Sheriff may not be a real solution for a couple of reasons.  First, the bears will likely be gone by the time the Sheriff arrives.  Second, it's there policy to respond only when an attack has occurred and we can do plenty (all of the above) to never come near that situation.

Again, we share the land with the animals. Let's do all we can to coexist.

Car Window Smashed

This morning, a neighbor reported that a car window was smashed on Canyon Crest and a laptop was stolen from the vehicle.

As a side note, Altadena Sheriffs have been encouraging everyone to not leave valuables in your car and to make sure the car is locked even if you're at home.  There was a string of car break-ins earlier in the year in Altadena where valuable items were being stolen.

Mountain Lion on El Prieto Monday Morning

A neighbor midway up on the canyon side of El Prieto called to say a mountain lion hopped her fence this morning at around 9:00 a.m.  He was probably a younger one as he wasn't that large. 

He was in her backyard before heading back down into El Prieto Canyon.

Bear Tracking

I'm adding these posts from neighbors just so everyone is aware of where our bear is.  Seems to be it is primarily on Risinghill except on trash night where its been seen on other streets.  A couple of posts have talked about how it heads down into Millard Canyon. 

Would love to post a picture if anyone gets one.

Here's one from tonight:

"On my run this evening at around 9:30PM, on Rising Hill, I unknowingly passed a residence with a bear in the front yard/driveway. After I was up the road for about ten yards, I heard the noise of some animal running, and I turned around to see a bear bolting from the residence into Millard Canyon (the portion of eastern side of Rising Hill where there are no homes). I ran a few yards futher up Rising Hill and turned back and made a few loud clapping noises, hoping to scare the bear, as I passed the open space of Millard Canyon."


"I'm constantly inspired by the natural scenery of the Meadows area."

We agree!

Bear Tracking

Just keeping everyone aware of the bear!

Seen early Saturday morning at 1:00 a.m. rummaging through the trash at a house on Risinghill closer to Canyon Crest. The neighbor made loud noises and the bear took off.

So, since we have a permanent resident here in The Meadows, some suggestions:

• Secure your trash cans
• Don't put food in the trash until the morning of trash day.  Or freeze it to be put in the trash the night before.  That takes the smell away.
• Bring in pet food at night.

From what I learned from a Park Ranger in Yosemite, bears track with their noses. It's all about taking the scent away so that we and the bear are safe.

UPDATED: Mountain Lion in The Meadows

UPDATE from neighbor who saw the mountain lion:

"saw him while driving home Tuesday at around 11pm. He ran across Canyon Crest and stopped in the front yard of a house about half way between Aralia and Gravelia on the west side of the street. I backed up to get a better look at him, he was BIG and didn't budge."





I'm trying to get more information on this and will update when I do.


A neighbor driving home to the cul-de-sac at the top of Canyon Crest saw a mountin lion around the corner where Canyon Crest, Risinghill and Cloverhill meet.

I think this happened last night.

Will update with more information as I get it.

Opportunity to Shred on Aug. 6

Besides a great community event, here's an opportunity to shred documents for free. 
 
At the Neighborhood Watch meeting yesterday, the Sheriff said we could bring as much to shred as you can fit in your car.
 
Good time to get rid of old documents.
 
Here's the notice:
 

 

Bear Aware Update

Another sighting reported to me this evening.

On this past Saturday night at 10:30, the bear entered the property of a house on the east side of Risinghill.  Sounds like the same bear - just under 200 lbs., looks young, paw to top of head about four feet.

He walked around the house and property and then headed down into Millard Canyon.

Past posts have been about the bear at Aralia and Canyon Crest on garbage night going through the cans and on the El Prieto Trail in the morning.

Suggestions for us as residents:

• Don't push trash out until the morning of trash day.
• Keep trash cans in a garage if you have one.
• Freeze food garbage to eliminate the odor
• Don't put pet food outside

Bears use their nose to find food and that's their main interest.

Any other tips I can share?

Be safe. Be bear aware.

Lots of Tree Trimming Today and Tomorrow

Tree trimmers are in The Meadows today and tomorrow.

It appears they are contracted by County and are working on the trees closest to the street as County has jurisdiction over those.  And mostly the palms.

FYI - this is not work being contracted by The Meadows FireSafe Council.

Thanks for the Garden Funds

Thanks to many of the neighbors who contributed to the Meadows Garden Maintenance Fund.

We've raised $226!!

That will keep the garden looking fantastic for at least the next year.

Opossum PI

Caught this really cute, young opossum staring into my kitchen window tonight.  I wasn't cooking anything of interest, so have to think he was just checking out the real estate!

Bear in The Meadows

From a neighbor on Aralia:

"I just wanted to give you a heads up that there is a bear in town.  I live on the south end of Aralia, near where it meets Canyon Crest and at about 1:15 AM this (Monday) morning, I heard a crash out front, so I went to the window with a flashlight.  Across the street was a bear eating from my neighbors trash cans.  He was dark brown or black, and looked to be a on the young side, but I'm not positive.  Figured I'd give you a heads up, and I will speak to the Sheriff tomorrow to see if there is anything that can be done."

I Have the Best Gardener

I have the best gardener.

Jose and crew showed up at 6:00 this evening to replace some sod that had died. Unexpected! And not per my request.

He goes above and beyond any expectations to satisfy his clients.

If you need a great gardener, call Jose at (323) 434-1442

Garden Fundraising

We're doing great only a couple of weeks into raising funds for the maintenance at the Welcome to The Meadows sign.

Neighbors have donated $131 to date.

If we can get to $250 that would take us through the next two years.

So, if you'd like to donate, please give $5 OR LESS and drop it off to me.  Checks can be payable to Greg Stanton.

Just drop it in my mailbox at 4416 El Prieto.

I track all of it and pay Darla each quarter.

Thanks so much!

Meadows Garden Fundraising

Several years ago, we raised money to pay for the maintenance and watering of the gardens around the “Welcome to The Meadows” sign. Those funds are almost gone.


It costs approximately $24-50 per quarter (depending on the season) to pay for the water and occasional hiring of help to weed and trim. Please know that Darla, the property owner, often performs the maintenance on her own without ever asking for compensation. I’m sure she’d welcome some help from other neighbors.

To replenish the funds and ensure that we have a wonderful entry to the neighborhood, please consider donating a small amount. I’m suggesting $5 or LESS. If enough people contribute, it will last a couple of years. If inclined, please send or drop off the money to me, Greg Stanton, at 4416 El Prieto Rd. Make checks payable to me. I keep track of the funds and reimburse Darla on a quarterly basis.

L.A. County Alerts

For anyone interested, this is a service from L.A. County that sends emails and texts of emergency notifications.  I'm signed up and will pass any pressing notices to this blog.

Over the past year, the notices have primarily been about road closures, flood warnings and child alerts. I think it's worth receiving should we have a major disruption.

This is different from The Meadows alert system.

From the Sheriff: Please pass this on to everyone you know - we currently have approximately 800 residents signed up to receive Nixle messages.


To receive detailed, up-to-date information directly from Los Angeles County via e-mail and/or text, register for "Nixle" alerts at

http://www.Nixle.com and register for "LASD - Altadena, Los Angeles County Sheriff" and “LASD – HQ Newsroom (SHB), Los Angeles County Sheriff”

or

text your zip code to 888777 to receive text alerts only.

Standard text messaging rates may apply, depending on your calling plan.

Raising Funds to Help

This has been posted on several blogs.  From our Sherrif liaison, Carolyn"
 
On Thursday, an Altadena family suffered the loss of their child, a beautiful 3 year old girl named Katherine, in a tragic accident.


It is devastating for them and it was for the Altadena Sheriff's Deputies and Captain McLean who arrived on the scene shortly after the accident occurred.

This family does not have the means to pay for a funeral for their daughter and Captain McLean, the leadership team at the Altadena Station and the Deputies are asking for your help.

You can help in one of three ways:

• Drop money off at the Altadena Sheriff's Station and tell the person at the desk it is for the fund for Katherine.
• Go to the car wash being planned for Saturday, July 2 at 11 am at the Carl's Jr., 790 North Lake Avenue in Pasadena
• Go to Wells Fargo Bank and make a deposit to the fund for Katherine's funeral. Here is the info: "Katherine Lopez Donation" Acct #73-21253424

Any help will be gratefully appreciated by this family.

Ray's Rain Report

Ray's Annual Rain Report:

My annual rain report for 2010-2011, as measured here at approximately 1670' elevation:

Total rainfall: 37.10"

The wettest month was December, when we had 16.70", 14.4" of which fell in a 6-day-long "Pineapple Express".

Total rainfall for the previous year (2009-2010) was 29.35"


Thanks Ray!

Inside Track

One of my listings in The Meadows was sold at auction today.  I am in conversation with the investor who is open to a quick turn-around of the property.  With an offer of around $425,000, this would be a great deal for a house on the canyonside.

Any one know of someone wanting to move the The Meadows?

Let me know.

Thanks,
Greg
626-644-4760

MFSC Fuel Reduction Progress

Crews performing fuel reduction on our vacant lands in The Meadows have been on-site for the past two weeks.  The effort should continue for about one more week.

The areas being addressed are the same as in years past - vacant lands behind the homes on Risinghill, upper Canyon Crest and to the east of upper Risinghill.

New Meadows Real Estate Trends

As we move through some bumpy economic times, I'm often asked how The Meadows real estate market is holding up.

In a few words - better than most.

While we've seen a decline over the past few years, the trend is starting to go up.

I've created "micro market reports" that I'll post monthly to give everyone a sense of pricing trends.

Click here and then choose The Meadows.

Humboldt Lilies are Blooming

With much thanks to Ray, here is his annual picture of the Humboldt Lilies - "precious gems" - as Ray likes to refer to them.

The picture was taken along El Prieto Trail at the third creek crossing (from the top).

Thanks Ray!

Updated: Sandra Booker at ACC

Here's what you missed if you couldn't make the Jazz concert this evening that Marsha (Meadows neighbor) is producing at Altadena Community Church monthly.

Tonight was Sandra Booker, a fantastic L.A. based Jazz vocalist.  She is a modern day cross between Ella and Sarah, but adds a clarity of tone, huge range, powerful set of pipes to wonderful arrangements.  Here's a little bit.

Please support Marsha as she brings Jazz to Altadena.  Her conerts are monthly and only $20.  That's a great deal for top notch talent at a local venue.

Updated: I took the YouTube post down to respect the contract with the artist.

Instead, here's Ny Space link to Sandra Booker's own site:
http://www.myspace.com/sandrabooker

Another Great Altadena Community Garden Picnic

Saw several Meadows residents at the picnic this afternoon.  Lots of people attended.  The food was fantastic (although I again ate too much), JAZZ musicians were wonderful, and the gardens looked spectacular.

Jazz Vocalist Sandra Booker this Saturday

Our neighbor, Marsha, is producing this Jazz series in Altadena. Sandra Booker is a fantastic Jazz vocalist.

New Trash Contract for Altadena

From Alice Wessen, one of our Town Council representatives:

The county supervisors finally approved the trash hauling contract with Athens at their May 17 meeting.  There will be a period of public notification, and it is hoped that Athens will start as Altadena's sole trash hauler in September.

Lots of detail here regarding pricing, containers, services and additional services:

Rates:

Base Service, per month: $18.06

Senior Discount, per month: $13.55

Difficult to access streets, per month: $22.57

Backyard roll out/pick up service, per month: $27.09



In addition to the services required under the agreement, Athens outlined the following commitments in their proposal to further enhance trash collection and recycling services in our community:

1. Increased the number of free bagged green waste pickup from 8 to 10 per year

2. Increased the number of bulky item collections from 2 to 3 per year

3. Free quarterly mulch giveaways

4. Curbside used oil collection program

5. Curbside battery recycling collection program



Franchise Area - Service Features

Once-a-week automated trash collection service.

One 96-gallon refuse container, one 96-gallon green waste container, and one 96-gallon recyclable container

Smaller containers are available upon request and are equivalent to original container size. For example, residents can receive (3) 32 gal. containers for each 96 gal. container

Residents can receive a extra green waste container and/or one extra recyclable container free of charge upon request

Residents may also substitute a extra recycle container for a green waste container upon request

Additional containers can be requested at the low rate of $5 per container per month

Free Holiday Tree collection services

Annual curbside clean-up event (including electronic waste)

On-call bulky item collections in unlimited quantities (twice per year, including electronic waste)

Four special community clean-up events per year

Semi-Annual E-waste and Clothing drop off event

12 recycling community events per year

Eight times a year, at no additional cost, excess green waste discarded in bags will be collected upon customer request.

Four times a year, at no additional cost, excess trash discarded in bags will be collected upon customer request.

Free “Sharps” mail-back disposal program

Free roll-out services for the elderly and/or disabled, upon request

25 percent senior discount for residents 62 or older who either (1) qualifies for utility rate discounts based on financial need and is the head of household, or (2) generates small amounts of waste and uses 32-gallon containers.



Additional Services Available Upon Request

Scooter Service (1) – For any customer requesting this service or if it’s determined that resident will be required to use this service when collection vehicles cannot safely access the containers

Roll-out/backyard service: This service means the driver will retrieve carts from your yard, dispose of your unwanted materials, and return the empty carts back to your yard.

(1)Please Note: The County will work with each customer, HOA, and Franchisee to determine what constitutes a difficult to services area.

MFSC: Fuel Reduction to Begin Next Week

Fuel reduction (brush clearance) will begin in The Meadows next Thursday, June 16.



The Meadows FireSafe Council will be using the 2010 grant money to, again, reduce the fuel on the vacant lands to the east of upper Risinghill Road, the areas behind the houses to the west of Risinghill, and the area as it continues above upper Canyon Crest.

Homeowners are still required to clear the first 100 feet from the houses.

It's expected that the effort will take about three to four weeks to complete.

After this effort, the next and final step in the 2010 grant is to address Oak trees in the neighborhood.

Any trimming or removal of branches on Oak trees requires a permit that the MFSC coordinates with L.A. County Fire at no charge to the homeowner. As a reminder, not having a permit can lead to substantial fines to the homeowner.

Assessments of the Oaks will begin in late Summer and trimming work will occur in early Fall.
In many cases, trimming of Oaks only occurs when branches are too close to a structure and considered to be fuel for a fire or if the tree is diseased or dieing.

Watch for more information on the Oak tree effort as we get closer to the dates above.

Yard / Garage Sale this Sunday

Meadows neighbors at 1078 Hollygrove Lane are having a yard / garage sale on Sunday from 9-2.
Great deals on items such as:

• excercise ab lounge
• treadmill
• vintage clothes and purses
• quality jwewlry
• dress clothing (L-3XL)
• hi-fi Motorola record player
• silk flowers
• gift baskets

There's a FREE GIFT when you bring a friend!

New Contact Info for Blog

Please note in the column to the tight, I've updated my contact information. So, if you need to send me an article, need resources, or have a question, please use the new contact info:

email: gstanton@sbcglobal.net
cell or text: 626-644-4760
or comment to the blog.

Why new?

I've moved my real estate practice to Teles Properties - a boutique real estate company first started in Beverly Hills that has opened an office in Pasadena.

They're state-of-the-art in marketing, analytics, and social media, among other highlights.

Please know I'm going to take The Meadows to a new level in real estate also.

If you'd like to receive updates on real estate via email, please send your contact info to me.

Thanks,

eWaste Event June 11

eWaste event coming to Altadena:

Altadena Town Council Volunteers

The upcoming Altadena Town Council elections needs volunteers to man the polls and count the ballots. Here's the info:

We're looking for volunteers to help with the Altadena Town Council Elections on Saturday, June 11.
There are five polling locations to choose from:

• Charles White Park 77 Mountain View Street (Ventura Street side)
• Farnsworth Park 568 East Mount Curve Avenue
• Gordy’s 843 West Woodbury Road
• S&J Auto 1904 New York Drive
• Webster’s 2450 North Lake Avenue

Shifts are:

• 9:00 – 11:00
• 11:00 – 1:00
• 1:00 – 3:00

We need ballot counters from 3:00 to 4:30 at the Davies Building at Farnsworth Park. Feel free to take a polling shift, a ballot counting shift or both!

Email atcelection@yahoo.com to volunteer

Eric Pierce
Chair- 2011 Election Committee
Altadena Town Council
atcelection@yahoo.com
626 664-4300

Owen Brown Mini-History

Found these cool mini-posts related to Owen Brown. Thought a little history related to The Meadows was appropriate for Memorial Day weekend.

View Owen Brown (abolitionist) and over 3,000,000 other topics on Qwiki.

View Cloudsplitter and over 3,000,000 other topics on Qwiki.

Anyone like to add more information?

Reminder: Drought Tolerant Plants Presentation Tuesday Night

The Meadows Fire Safe Council is hosting an informational workshop on fire resistant and drought tolerant plantings.


This free event will be held at Loma Alta Park on May 24 at 7pm.

There will be speakers and informational materials available. Everyone is welcome, and refreshments will be provided.

Reminder: Collection Event Saturday

L.A. County is having a collection event tomorrow, Saturday from 9-3 at 252 Mountain View.  Great opportunity to get rid of hazardous waste like paint and e-items like old computers, telephones, etc.

"Spyder Blue" at The Rancho this Saturday

Meadows neighbor, Todd Szabo and his band, "Spyder Blue", will be playing at the Rancho Bar this Saturday at 10:00 p.m..

The Rancho is at 2485 N Lake Ave, Altadena, CA 91001

Todd is a very accomplished drummer and singer. "Spyder Blue" plays an interesting mix of Country music and ballads. The band includes an upright bass player and trumpet.

Great reason to party in Altadena!

Bears in Your Backyard Presentation

Please Join Assemblymember Anthony J. Portantino for a Public Safety Forum

“BEARS IN YOUR BACKYARD”

May 19, 2011

7:30 PM- 9 PM

at the Crescenta Valley Sheriff’s Station
4554 N. Briggs Ave. La Crescenta, CA.

A California Fish and Game Representative Will be Present to Answer All of Your Questions
For More Information contact Bill Hacket at 626.577.9944

Art on Palm 2011

Meadows artists participate in this great annual art fair.  Check it out if you've never been.  It's a wonderful location in Altadena.

Firefighters knock down brush fire near JPL

A bit more details from L.A. Times

Firefighters knock down brush fire near JPL

MFSC Alerts Neighbors to the JPL Fire

A reminder that The Meadows has an alert system in place.

When a neighbor called to tell us about the fire at the water towers above JPL, the Meadows FireSafe Council sent an alert to all neighbors within minutes of learning about the fire.

The alert system can send texts to cell phones, call cell phones, work and home phone numbers.

The MFSC then was put in direct contact with L.A. County Fire for updates.

The fire was quickly "knocked down" just before 2:00 p.m. and a second alert was sent to all neighbors on the alert system.

If you're a Meadows resident and did not get the alerts, then we either have the wrong contact information for you or you're not signed up.

If you'd like to be included, please provide your name, phone numbers you wish included and your address to greg.stanton@dilbeck.com

Update: Fire Over JPL "Knocked Down"

Just before 2:00 p.m., the 2 acre fire at the watertanks above JPL was extinguished per L.A. County Fire Department.

According to Meadows residents who live directly across the canyon, helicopters performed water drops along with crews on the land.



Picture taken from the backyard of a home on Canyon Dell in The Meadows.



Fire Above JPL

What We Know Right Now:

There is a fire currently burning up-slope from JPL, towards the water tanks across the Arroyo from Florecita Crescent. Fire crews are present on the ground and in the air. Please be aware and cautious.

Don't Miss This Fun Celebration

Our Meadows neighbor, Silver, heads up this very fun celebration of the Altadena Community Garden picnic.  It's not in the flyer, but Pasadena Urgent Care will be providing free flu shots.

If you haven't been before, really consider participation in this very fun, local event.

JPL Open House This Weekend

From our Altadena Town Council representative, Alice Wessen, great info on this weekend's open house:

http://www.jpl.nasa.gov/events/open-house.cfm


JPL Open House

Come early, take your time.

Please note all bags are subject to search. I smile and work with security. They are there for your safety. And you will get your Open House map and start your adventure!

When lines are too long, head to the robots in the south part of the lab (area 17 of your Open House map). They will have some really cool robots out running. The Mars area (area 8) is in the main area as you walk in from Oak Grove Drive. Truly amazing stuff.

My area is Solar System Missions (area 21), to be found in what JPL'rs call the 303 cafeteria building. We set up Friday. We are staffing all day Sat and Sun.

At 5PM Sunday, my crew breaks everything down, puts it away, and it reopens at 7AM for breakfast on Monday.

#1 Question: What must I see? Depends on your interests, but do visit Mars (#8) and Mobility Systems (#17) and Solar System Missions (#21). The new Earth center is small but cool. Several missions have key events this year (launches and encounters) and the best from my perspective is to talk to the folks on the missions.

#2 Question: What is there for kids? Again, it depends on the kid. My kids loved the spacecraft fabrication area (#16) where hardware is made. They loved the robots running around (area 17) 3D pictures always a hit...watching a video and sometimes just sitting.

PASADENA, Calif. -- NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory invites the public to its annual Open House on Saturday, May 14, and Sunday, May 15, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event, themed "The Excitement in Explorations," invites visitors to share in the wonders of space through high-definition and 3-D videos, live demonstrations, interactions with scientists and engineers, and a first look at JPL's new Earth Science Center.

More info

Dates: Saturday and Sunday, May 14 and 15, 2011

Time: 9am-5pm both days

Admission and parking are free

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

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

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

Your entry on NASA/JPL property constitutes your agreement that you, your vehicles and your personal belongings are subject to inspection.

JPL is located at 4800 Oak Grove Drive in Pasadena, off the 210 (Foothill) Freeway at the Berkshire Avenue/Oak Grove Drive exit. Parking is available near the Oak Grove main gate and the eastern boundary of JPL, accessible from Windsor Avenue via the Arroyo Boulevard exit off the 210 Freeway.

L.A. County Fire Inspections and MFSC Update

Two items today regarding fuel reduction (brush clearance):

L.A. County Fire is now in charge of inspections in all of The Meadows.  They have been inspecting over the past few weeks and some neighbors have been given notice that fuel reduction (brush clearance, tree trimming, etc.) needs to be completed by June 1.  After June 1, they will revisit the properties.  If the required work is not done, neighbors could then be subject to a fine.

The 2010-2011 Meadows FireSafe Council grant work addressed many of the tree trimming issues for those neighbors who participated.  Hopefully, not many neighbors will be sighted.  Please note that funds allocated to tree trimming and removal have been used in there entirety.

MFSC funds for fuel reduction to clear the vacant lands are on there way.  Hopefully, we'll have that work started before June 1.  The areas to be addressed are the same as in years past: vacant land above and below Risinghill and above upper Canyon Crest.

The last effort of the MFSC will be the trimming of certain Oak trees if permitted by L.A. County Fire and as the remaining grant monies allow.  Those assessments will resume over the Summer with the trimming to be done in the Fall.  That will conclude the efforts of the 2010-2011 grant.

Art on Palm May 21

Meadows resident, Katherine Nakazono, will be participating in the "Art on Palm" annual event on May 21.  See links below for more info.

As Katherine stated, even if not purchasing something, it's a lovely venue that features the Greene & Greene Valentine Cottage and secluded woods right here in Altadena.


http://www.artonpalm.com/art_on_palm/Shows.html

http://www.nakazonoglassart.com/

Altadena ARTBreak 2011

Altadena ARTBreak 2011 is on Friday, June 17, 2011, at The Temporary Gallery @ Webster's - 2460 North Lake - two doors north of Webster's Pharmacy.

Meadows neighbors, Mary Ann and Gene Stevensen, are inviting the public, especially our Meadows neighbors, to attend the opening night and to enjoy the fantastic artworks created by young people attending schools in Pasadena Unified School District.


They are also seeking volunteers to assist us in both converting the space donated by the Webster family into a gallery for the event and who might volunteer an hour or two serve as gallery staff during the run of the exhibit (Friday, June 17th thru Friday, June 24th).

Gene and Maryann can be contacted at 626-797-5798 and via e-nail at info@altadenaartscouncil.net.

MFSC Presentation

The Meadows Fire Safe Council is hosting an informational workshop on fire resistant and drought tolerant plantings. 

This free event will be held at Loma Alta Park on May 24 at 7pm. 

There will be speakers and informational materials available.  Everyone is welcome, and refreshments will be provided.  

For more information, contact Maya Golden-Krasner at mdgoldenkrasner@gmail.com

Want to Run for Altadena Town Council?

Here's a message from the Altadena Town Council Election Committee:

Being a representative on the Altadena Town Council is a great way to serve your community!


Election Day is Saturday, June 11th at multiple locations with a pre-election polling location open on Tuesday, June 7th.

Candidate Applications for Town council are available at the Altadena Community Center; 730 East Altadena Drive, between the hours of 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday, or can be downloaded from AltadenaPatch http://altadena.patch.com or Altadenablog http://www.altadenablog.com

Town Council consists of two representatives from each of the eight census tracts in Altadena, with each representative serving an alternating two-year term. Meeting the 3rd Tuesday each month, the Council’s 16 members are elected as an advisory body that communicates and coordinates residents’ needs with public agencies and to Supervisor Michael Antonovich of the Fifth District, Altadena’s official representative on the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.

Applications need to be turned in at the Community Center in person, no later than May 10, 5:00 pm.

Census tract maps can be viewed at http://www.altadenatowncouncil.org or Altadenablog/AltadenaPatch

Eric Pierce
Chair- 2011 Election Committee
Altadena Town Council
atcelection@yahoo.com

626 664-4300

Attempted Break-In

A Meadows neighbor reported an attempted break-in. Luckily, it wasn't successful.

Good for all of us to be alert.

Jazz Concert May 7

Meadows Jazz Diva Marcia Jeffries has started producing Jazz concerts here in Altadena.  I attended her first a couple of weeks ago and it was great.

Here's the notice for an upcoming concert on Saturday, May 7.

Let's support the Diva!

Yoga and Zumba at Loma Alta Park

From a Meadows neighbor who found a great yoga class at Loma Alta Park. Here's her post:


I found this class by chance and have gone for the 4 past Wednesday eves. The class is usually only 3 or 4 people so I thought this might help get the word out. It's so convenient for the Meadows. Hopefully some neighbors will join in and have some fun. The instructors website is rosecitywellness.com.

Looking for a change of pace? Try a Zumba or yoga class!

WEDNESDAYS:
Zumba Dance 7:00 – 8:00pm
SUNDAYS:
Zumba Dance 1:00 – 2:00pm
Gentle Vinyasa Yoga 2:15 – 3:15pm
LEE ANN EDWARDS, Instructor for all classes
PRICES: single class: $9
Zumba series of 10: $80
Yoga series of 6: $48
LOCATION:
Loma Alta Park, Multipurpose Center
4330 North Lincoln Ave.
Altadena 91001 (626) 398-5451 or 5452

Abandoned Dog?

Potentially abandoned dog at the top of Risinghill.  A brown, light-eyed Chihuahua mix has been using a neighbor's car as it's refuge. The neighbor tried for the last 5hrs (with biscuits & food) to coax it out but no luck.


There is no collar and no tag.  Another neighbor has offered to temporarily shelter the dog if caught.

Any info or pics might help.

Rain Stats

Thanks to Ray for the following rain stats:

Storms over the past weekend (March 19-22) dropped 5.5" of rain in Altadena (at elev. 1670'), most of it (4.8") fell on Sunday and Sunday night.

Update: Lost Dog Loma Alta

Great Update: Thanks to a Meadows neighbor, "Andy" was spotted on the freeway and recovered by Animal Control. He's on his way to reuniting with his owners.  Thanks Meadows!

Looking for a dog who ran due to the thunder this morning.  These are friends of mine on Loma Alta near the equestrian area.  The dog's name is "Andy" and is friendly. If you see him, please call Amanda at 213-700-3520.

Thanks.

EQ Preparedness

A good reminder from Caolyn Seitz:

The magnitude 9.0 Earthquake and the follow-on Tsunami has had a significant impact on not only Japan, but some of the coastal cities in California, Oregon and Hawaii.


No one is yet able to reliably predict when these kinds of catastrophic events will occur.

We live in Earthquake country. Please take some time now to check your emergency supplies to be sure they are still fresh enough to sustain you if we experience a massive earthquake or other catastrophic event here.

If you haven't yet taken time to put supplies together for yourself and your family, this is a good time to start.

While the information below recommends a 3 day supply, the guidelines for our area recommend a minimum 10 day supply per person, and please remember your pets. They'll need food, water, bedding, their medications, and medical supplies too.

Having emergency supplies on hand - at home, in your vehicle and at work can be the equivalent of cheap insurance. Insurance only seems expensive when you don't need it. It's invaluable when you do need it and having emergency supplies readily available will prove invaluable if it makes the difference between being able to sustain yourself and your family members or not.

You can check out the websites below for more information. I've also copied the text from some and included it in this email.

http://www.ready.gov/america/getakit/

When preparing for a possible emergency situation, it's best to think first about the basics of survival: fresh water, food, clean air and warmth.

Recommended Items to Include in a Basic Emergency Supply Kit:

Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation

Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food

Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both

Flashlight and extra batteries

First aid kit

Whistle to signal for help

Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place

Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation

Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)

Local maps

Cell phone with chargers

Additional Items to Consider Adding to an Emergency Supply Kit:

Prescription medications and glasses

Infant formula and diapers

Pet food and extra water for your pet

Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container

Cash or traveler's checks and change

Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from www.ready.gov

Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate.

Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate.

Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.

Fire Extinguisher

Matches in a waterproof container

Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items

Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels

Paper and pencil

Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children



From the Los Angeles County Emergency Survival Program website - and note that on their website they have an emergency planning activity recommended for each month of the year, with preparation of an emergency kit the activity for March.



http://lacoa.org/PDF/ESP10/Mar10.pdf

Grow Your Own Vegetables

 Become a Certified UC Victory Gardener through the GROW LA VICTORY GARDEN INITIATIVE

Part of University of California Cooperative Extension’s Master Gardener Program

Join Your Neighborhood Victory Garden Circle:

Location: Altadena Community Garden

3330 Lincoln Ave.

(adjacent to Loma Alta Park)

Altadena, CA

Dates/times: April 9, 16, 23 & 30 (Saturdays)

Beginning Class - 9:00 a.m. to noon

Intermediate Class – 2:00 – 5:00 pm

Cost: $50 for series or $15 per class

Registration: Call Jeri Huston at 323-344-6012 or

E-mail at Jeri.Huston@yahoo.com

Sunset from The Meadows

Another great picture of sunset on Jan. 23 from the top of El Prieto Rd.  Thanks Ray!

Snow Scene

We had some spectacular views of the mountains and snow. Thanks to Ray for this wonderful picture of our very own Brown Mountain taken from the top of El Prieto Road on Saturday.

Gathering for Marjo Weisblat

Longtime Meadows resident, Marjo Weisblat, passed away on Sunday. There will not be a service for her, per her wishes, but a gathering at her home with friends and family will be this coming Sunday, February 20 at 12:00 noon.

Marjo's home is at the corner of El Prieto and Cloverhill, 4344 El Prieto Rd.

Beautiful Visitor to El Prieto

This pic sent in today from a neighbor on El Prieto.

Coyote Pic

Great pic from an El Prieto neighbor showing a very healthy coyote in the neighborhood.

Mountain Lion in The Meadows

From a neighbor:

Two of my neighbors on Canyon Dell Dr have had a mountain lion visit in the past week.

One visit occurred on Saturday night and it was standing right out side of their open window growling at their small dog.

The other occurred at a different neighbor's house some time early last week. It was spotted about midnight right out the back sliding glass door also stalking a little dog.

It is reportedly a very large cat. About 30-32" tall at the shoulder and about 4' long not counting the tail.

So, keep your pets close and secure because they could be on the menu. This cat seems to be targeting prey and has identified pets as an easy meal. It is not a surprise that there are so many lost house cat postings.

I heard a pack of coyotes either working on their prey or being preyed on late Sunday night - early Monday morning around 12:30am.

Need Rocks for Garden?

I'm changing my gardens and have lots of rocks for anyone who wants them.

There at the top of my stairs at 4416 El Prieto Rd.  You're welcome to come and get them, would suggest during the day.

They mostly came out of the canyons.

Thanks,
Greg

Ongoing Yard Sale

New neighbors at 1072 Hollygrove are clearing out their relatives' items.  They're having an ongoing yard sale with more and more items being brought out daily.  Take a look!

MFSC Grant Progress

Two crews have been moving through the neighborhood trimming trees under the 2010 Meadows FireSafe Council grant. Crews continue on Gravelia and should be on Canyon Crest this coming week.

We may have another delay after next week as we wait for funds to be disbursed from the larger CA FireSafe Council.  The goal is to finish before the end of February when bird nesting begins.

More to come.

It's for the Birds - Really!

From MaryEllen:

I had to take my birdfeeders down and have lots of birdseed for anyone who wants it. I have one 20-lb bag of sunflower seeds (in shell), unopened, one 20-lb bag of nyjer seed, unopened, one 20-lb bag of mixed seed, unopened, and one 20-lb bag of mixed seed, opened but more than half-full.


They are on the front steps at 4595 Rising Hill.

MaryEllen Schoeman
VP, Animal Advocates
http://www.animaladvocates.us/

Missing Cat on El Prieto

This cat is missing and has been seen midway on El Prieto.  I've seen him on my patio.  The owner is asking for help in returning him home.  His name is "Fireball" and is very friendly.  If you catch him, please let me know and I'll connect you with the owner.

Tree Trimming Not the MFSC Grant

The tree trimming happening in The Meadows today by the green TLC trucks was not part of the Meadows FireSafe Council grant effort. We have confirmed that it was an effort of L.A. County Public Works.

The MFSC grant effort began today on upper Risinghill and will begin tomorrow on El Prieto.

Coyote Pics

Two pics of coyote on the west side of Risinghill behind the houses.

Thanks to MaryEllen for the pics.

MaryEllen Schoeman

VP, Animal Advocates
http://www.animaladvocates.us/

MFSC Work to Resume

Starting the week of Jan 10, tree vendors will resume work identified in the 2010 Meadows FireSafe Council assessments.

Property owners who participated in the assessments and authorized the work will be contacted one to two days prior to the vendor arriving at the site.

Meadows resident, Bill Ramseyer, will lead the effort.

In some cases, where there are numerous trees to be trimmed or removed, Bill will talk with the property owner about the priority of the work.

If anyone has a concern about work scheduled at a neighbor's property, the two neighbors should have the conversation.  It is not the MFSC's role to make individual decisions for property owners.

Crews can be expected in The Meadows for several weeks.  They will resume the work starting on El Prieto and Risinghill Roads.

Coyote Country

Looks and sounds like we have a new generation of coyotes making their presence known here in The Meadows.

I heard yipping right behind my house on El Prieto two nights this week.  Sounded like a small pack that must have found some other animal.

Also saw a very healthy, large coyote midday last week.  Some other neighbors on Risinghill saw the same one.

So, keep your pets safe.

Found Dog

From a neighbor:

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

Rain Statistics

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


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

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

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



Ray

Filming at Home on Lower Canyon Crest

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

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

Not sure for how long the filming is planned. 

Careful on Canyon Crest

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

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

Lincoln Ave. Plans in Pasadena

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

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

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

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

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

Free Coyote Presentation

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

Update: Small Terrier on El Prieto

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

Any idea who the owner is?

MFSC Update - On Hold

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

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

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

Thanks for your patience as we straighten this out.

Two Updates for Sunday Re: Trail Access

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

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

Stray Dog

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


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

Found Dog

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

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

Tan Lab Found

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

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


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

Rambro Update

From a Meadows neighbor:

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

MFSC Update

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

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

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

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

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

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

Missing Person?

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

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

Gushing Water?

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

Unconfirmed at this point.  Anyone have any information?

Rambro Update

A cross-posting from other blogs and emails:

Dear Neighbors & Trail Users,


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Bear Info

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

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

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

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

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


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

Bear Alert Poster

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

Altadena Foothills


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

Black bears in our neighborhood

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

! A fed bear is a dead bear! !

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

! Never deliberately feed a bear!

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

March 2010

Bear Video

Bear Sighting on Rising Hill

From MaryEllen Schoeman:

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

Active Bear in The Meadows

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trash Dumping

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

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

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

Free Box Spring

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

MFSC Assessment Letters Mailed

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

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

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

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