Pasadena, California

Celebrating 52 years of community service

Fall 2014

LAND USE / PLANNING EDUCATION OPEN SPACE / CONSERVATION NEIGHBORHOOD SAFETY GOVERNMENT PARKS / RECREATION

City, scientists search for elusive solution Pasadena’s urban forest threatened by tiny beetle

By Justin Chapman

fficials with the City of Pasadena, Charles Peretz, Pasadena’s Parks and Natural University of California at Riverside, Resources administrator, says the city is Othe Huntington Library and Botanical formulating a plan to inventory affected trees. Gardens and many others are studying a fungus-spewing pest that has already infected “We’re hoping in very short order to begin and could possibly kill nearly 30 species of working with volunteers to conduct an trees in Southern California. inventory in the Arroyo and other parts of the city,” said Peretz. “We hope to work Unfortunately, a solution has yet to materialize with the Arroyo Seco Foundation, and we’re to help combat the potentially devastating also investigating the possibility of using strain of the ambrosia beetle, which is smaller a consultant to inventory a portion of the than a sesame seed. urban forest, so we can get a full picture of the Polyphagous shot hole borer (Photo by G. impact of this pest and fungus.” The beetle Arakelian) Continued on page 13 It’s called the polyphagous shot hole borer. And while its origins and method of arrival in “If we can’t control them [the beetles], they are California are unknown, what is known is that For more information going to wipe out all our trees,” Akif Eskalen, the tiny grain-sized beetle drills a hole into a For more information about the poly­ a plant pathologist at UC Riverside who has host tree and plants a fungus called Fusarium, phagous shot hole borer and Fusarium been studying the pest, told the LA Times. which can spread and kill the tree within two dieback, including the proper way to identify the pest, the best management to four years. Pasadena plans tree inventory practices for proper disposal of infected The beetle was first discovered at Whittier The City of Pasadena has been working wood and how to find other infected trees Narrows in 2003, although the connection with with UC Riverside and the Huntington to in the area: the tree-killing fungus wasn’t made until 2012. develop a list of reproductive host trees, which includes more than 30 species, from Visit the WPRA’s website at wpra.net Dozens of trees have already been infected in California sycamores to several types of oaks Call Pasadena’s Urban Forestry Pasadena and the surrounding area, including to avocado and mimosa trees. Customer Service Center at in the Arroyo Seco and the Huntington (626) 744-4321 Botanical Gardens.

John Van de Kamp and his wife Andrea opened their San Rafael home corner of west Pasadena, from San Rafael Hills to Orange Grove to in August for a festive summer social for WPRA members. In this Linda Vista and all points between. For more, see pages 2 and 13. pool-side photo, WPRA president Geoffrey Baum delivers the official (Photo by Chuck Hudson) welcome to the assembly. Turnout exceeded 200 guests from every WPRA IN MOTION

Why is everyone in our part of Pasadena so nice?

By Geoffrey Baum $500,000+ project. The place looks great and it is I particularly liked the President, WPRA available for your next gathering! way neighbor Gene Detchemendy put it ot long ago, I came home from work The Storrier-Stearns Japanese Garden hosted when he wrote, “The and went for a walk with my 10-year- a reception to celebrate a milestone in its WPRA always makes old daughter, Amy, and our little restoration (see page 6). Another of west N me remember what black dog, Ruby. It was a warm and beautiful Pasadena’s special places, this historic garden Pasadena is all about.” summer evening, so lots of people were out. is now generally open to the public on the We headed up the street toward San Rafael last Sunday of each month. It features a Don’t want to miss Elementary School. After the second group 15-foot waterfall and a formal teahouse on next year’s Summer approximately an acre of land. We owe a debt of Social? Be sure to use of walkers stopped to chat, Amy turned Geoffrey Baum to me and asked, “Why is everyone in our gratitude to owners Jim and Connie Haddad for the envelope (enclosed neighborhood so nice?” (True story) their preservation efforts, and to the Garden’s within this issue) to renew your WPRA board of directors who are helping build a membership and be among the first to hear We are all very fortunate to call west Pasadena foundation for the future. about these and other special events. home. The tremendous spirit of community we share has been on display at a number of John Van de Kamp, a longtime member of the Finally, remember the three “C’s” events over the past few weeks. WPRA board of directors, and his wife Andrea (communication, collaboration and opened their San Rafael Avenue home in celebration) I mentioned in the last newsletter? Thanks to strong collaboration between City August for a festive summer social for WPRA With a dedicated (and all-volunteer) board officials, neighborhood volunteers and donors members (see page 13). Turnout exceeded (including the WPRA), we can enjoy the beautiful of directors, you can count on the WPRA our most optimistic projections. We counted for important and timely communication renovation (including a fabulous new kitchen) of about 200 guests from every corner of west the Casita del Arroyo (see page 14). Nearly 100 about issues facing west Pasadena, effective Pasadena, from San Rafael Hills to Orange collaboration with local officials, other neighbors and officials celebrated the grand re- Grove to Linda Vista and all points between. opening in July. Special credit goes to Tom Seifert community groups and concerned residents, Many commented how much they appreciated and as a result, we will join together in and the La Casita Foundation Board of Directors the invitation and chance to visit with their for enlisting public and private support for the celebration and appreciation for our friendly neighbors and make some new friends. neighborhood. About us 2014 – 2015 officers 2014 – 2015 board of directors President: Geoffrey Baum Justin Chapman ([email protected]) Ken Grobecker ([email protected]) Vice President: Sarah Gavit Land use, Planning ([email protected]) Kenyon Harbison The News is mailed each quarter to Treasurer: Blaine Cavena Joan Hearst nearly 8,000 homes in the 91105 and ([email protected]) 91103 ZIP codes and beyond. Chuck Hudson ([email protected]) Secretary: Robert Holmes Communications Editor: Chuck Hudson ([email protected] Jim Keatley ([email protected]), Mission: Founded in 1962, the West Audrey O’Kelley, past president Pasadena Residents’ Association is dedicated to P. O. Box 50252 maintaining the character of our community and Marilyn Randolph ([email protected]) Pasadena, CA 91115-0252 enhancing the quality of life in west Pasadena. Education The West Pasadena Residents’ Area: The WPRA service area is bounded on Catherine Stringer Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit the north by Colorado Boulevard, on the east by Priscilla Taylor public benefit corporation. Fair Oaks Avenue and on the south and west by the city limits. Michael Udell, past president The WPRA is grateful to Castle Press Funding: All WPRA activities are funded Bill Urban, past president for design and printing services. through membership dues and contributions. John Van de Kamp The WPRA receives no public funding and ______has no paid employees. Since the WPRA is a Fred Zepeda, past president Visit our website at wpra.net 501(c)(3) non-profit public benefit corporation, Linda Zinn ([email protected]) contributions and donations are fully deductible Membership, Open Space, & to the extent permitted by law. Conservation

The News 2 Fall 2014 The News 3 Fall 2014 CITY IN MOTION

From concept to master plan … with your help BRIEFS ‘Connecting Pasadena Plan’ Help us respond to SR-710 DEIR/DEIS By Audrey O’Kelley on October 25, will provide information Director, WPRA and seek foundational ideas on turning The WPRA is forming a team to respond concept into reality. The second workshop, on to the SR-710 Draft Environmental ecades ago Caltrans took valuable land November 8, will provide a draft master plan Impact Report DEIR) and Statement from the City of Pasadena and left us blueprint based on your ideas from the first (DEIS), which is planned for release Dwith the stunted, unsightly 710 stub. visioning workshop. in February 2015. We’re looking for A new citizen’s initiative, Connecting experts or research-oriented amateurs to Pasadena Plan (CPP), is looking for ideas One caveat: The CPP will be possible ONLY if review the following subject areas: legal, on how to transform this 25-foot deep ditch Caltrans and Metro do not build the currently NEPA/CEQA, construction, geology, into an area of beauty and value for our city. proposed tunnel. hydrology, transportation and traffic, air The goal is to develop a master plan for this What do you think? Should Pasadena depend quality, water quality and usage, noise/ “lost land” by creating a grand boulevard on Caltrans and Metro to forge the future of vibration, hazardous materials and to manage current and future traffic and this important swath of our city? Or should safety, global warming, human health, reestablishing the urban fabric through we take charge of our own city’s destiny? biological assessment, historic assets, creation of parks and buildings. Make your voice heard. cultural and social assets, economics and environmental justice. To volunteer What should go there? Where and how would For more information: or recommend an expert that might we accomplish this? What are the economic Visit the WPRA website (wpra.net) or volunteer, contact Sarah Gavit at and transportation challenges? These are but a the Downtown Pasadena Neighborhood [email protected]. few of the questions that need to be answered. Association (downtownpasadena. CPP invites you to join architect and urbanist wordpress.com) City establishes SR-710 Stefanos Polyzoides at two workshops at alternatives working group Contact Audrey O’Kelley by email Maranatha High School, from 9 a.m. to ([email protected]) or by phone at The City of Pasadena has established a Noon, on Saturday, October 25 and on (626) 390-3541 or Jonathan Edewards at citizen working group to evaluate the Saturday November 8. The first workshop, [email protected] or (626) 676-3466 current SR-710 study alternatives, to formulate a general understanding of the range of impacts on Pasadena from each alternative, and to identify a responsible Community deliberates new funds, music festival alternative design that has the potential to minimize the impact on Pasadena while By Bill Urban New park equipment for the Linda Vista increasing regional connectivity. Those Director, WPRA Park: $25,000 named to the working group are: Stephen Acker, WPRA President Geoffrey Baum, ince its renovation, the Rose Bowl Improvements of the East Arroyo Joel Bryant, Alan Clelland, WPRA Vice Stadium has become a regional magnet neighborhood connector trail (to complete President Sarah Gavit, David Grannis and Sfor people, business and general funding): $130,000 Jennifer Higginbotham. The WPRA is excitement. However, those of us in west Two other projects were suggested, but only well represented on this important team Pasadena often bear the brunt of the flip-side: one would have funding: traffic, noise, and general disruption. that will help guide the City’s selection of Restoration of trails and rubble walls (as a preferred alternative moving forward. Capital improvement funds much as funding permits) in the Central The working group is charged to provide Arroyo: $145,000. Some trail and wall To mitigate some of the outsized impact their recommendations to the City repairs were completed in 2007 and 2009. Manager before the end of calendar year on Arroyo area residents, some promoters Improvements in the Rose Bowl 2014. for this year’s concerts and the Rose Bowl Operating Company (RBOC) have ponied up pedestrian loop (to complete funding the $600,000 project), including color- Mayor Bogaard will not $300,000 for “capital improvements within the seal coat, striping, replacement of seek reelection Central Arroyo or within the neighborhoods most affected by Rose Bowl events.” missing delineators and plugged bases as After serving nearly 16 years as the City’s necessary: $145,000. first and only directly elected mayor, In August the City solicited community input The WPRA and other neighborhood Bill Bogaard recently announced his from neighborhood leaders, including those organizations, support the restoration of trails “reluctant” decision not to seek re-election. from the WPRA, during open meetings and rubble walls. hosted, separately, by City councilmembers Continued on page 10 Steve Madison and Jackie Robinson. Everyone agreed on two projects: Continued on page 4

The News 2 Fall 2014 The News 3 Fall 2014 LAND USE / PLANNING

Community deliberates Continued from page 3

As of this writing, the projects were to go to the RBOC and then City Council for approval. Work on the projects that are ultimately selected will begin in 2015.

Music festival A separate issue is the RBOC’s proposal to host a to-be-annual three-day music festival. “If done correctly and deemed acceptable by the Pasadena community,” reports the RBOC, “a music festival could be a long-term tenant for the stadium and create a continuing stream of revenue. A multi-generational music festival is consistent with the world- class events hosted by Pasadena.” Artist’s rendering, facing west across the great lawn, of the 21 units planned for The Grove. To accommodate a music festival, the City is preparing an Environmental Impact Report, Ambassador Gardens’ construction proceeds which would analyze the impact of allowing nine more displacement (major) events each By Ben Besley the Fowler Garden and the Great Lawn. The year without additional City Council review. Vice President, Development three-story buildings offer homes ranging City Ventures in size from 2,535 to 3,294 square feet. Nine The current ordinance allows 12 major have already been sold, and work should be events, plus, if it should ever come to pass, an The Bungalows (phase 1) complete by the end of the year. Homeowners additional 13 National Football League events. The first new homeowners are moving in at should be moving in by early 2015. This year, 18 major events were authorized, Ambassador Gardens! The Bungalows, 10 and 17 were held. condominium units in two buildings at 363 Jamieson Place (phase 3) While WPRA applauds and supports the and 367 W. Del Mar Blvd., were completed Construction has also started at the two efforts to make the Rose Bowl Stadium self- earlier this year. After options and upgrades parcels along S. Orange Grove Boulevard sustaining and to continue to improve the from City Ventures’ Insignia Design Center near Green Street. This phase, Jamieson Place, venue, we have voiced serious concerns about were installed, new neighbors now call will include 39 flats and townhomes ranging the RBOC’s festival plan. Pasadena “home.” Two of these 10 homes are in size from approximately 2,004 to 3,725 still available for sale. square feet. The buildings will be two- and We are particularly concerned about the three-stories with lower buildings fronting S. cumulative effect of frequent events (last The Grove (phase 2) Orange Grove Boulevard. This phase should August’s four concerts in seven days, Meanwhile, construction continues at The be completed by the end of 2016 or early 2017. including two consecutive weekends, was Grove, a 21-unit collection of distinctive flats considered by many to be unacceptable), located in the center of the campus above Continued on page 6 noise during concerts (especially the loud broadcasting of profanity-laced narrative), and traffic. We were pleased that the City responded to some of our early concerns by extending the EIR scoping comment period and by agreeing to prepare a new EIR, rather than relying on a previous EIR. As of this writing, the City has not determined when it plans to release the Draft Environmental Impact Report.

Artist’s rendering, facing east across South Orange Grove, of the 39 flats and townhomes planned for Jamieson Place.

The News 4 Fall 2014 The News 5 Fall 2014 LAND USE / PLANNING LAND USE / PLANNING

Maranatha’s 20-year Master Plan nearing final stage

By Ken Grobecker, AICP Plan area. If granted, the topic is subject to Director, WPRA another review by the Design Commission. About Maranatha High School Planning and Land Use Design review approval would be required This year Maranatha inal approval nears of a Master Deve­ prior to the issuance of building permits. High School cele­brates lopment Plan design study that includes Also, the conditions of approval associated 50 years of service as Fbuilding design guidelines for the future with the Master Plan will require that a parochial college development of Maranatha High School. before the issuance of a building permit, preparatory education the new perimeter fence shall undergo a Fulfillment of the proposed Master Plan facility for 680 students, supported by staff-level design review to ensure that the would take place in three phases over 20 a faculty of 45. The school offers 20 exact placement, which has not yet been years and would result in 29,000 square feet competitive sports and award-winning determined, will not impact existing trees and of new construction and 15,500 square feet performing and visual arts programs. are aesthetically compatible with the existing of remodeled or converted space. The project Maranatha moved to its campus home built environment. also calls for the installation of a perimeter on the southeast corner of the former fence around the campus, the construction of For more information, visit the San Rafael Ambassador College Campus in 2005. an outdoor swimming pool and sports courts, branch of the Pasadena Public Library to Headmaster is Dr. David Gyertson, who and directional signage at several locations. review the Master Plan or contact City planner joined Maranatha in 2013. The MHS Master Plan does not propose to Vicrim Chima at (626) 744-6791. increase student enrollment or faculty/staff B beyond the currently entitled limit. NEW 4'-0" NEW 2 STORY ADMINISTRATION WIDE GATE BUILDING AND NEW ENTRY:4,500 SF The majority of the issues related to the proposed Master Plan, including the

INTERIOR REMODEL identification of existing historic resources, 5 NEW CLASSROOMS the design of new buildings, the removal of A EXISTING STUDENT CENTER NEW 34'-0" WIDE mature trees with required replacements, LIBRARY SLIDING GATE REMODEL 2,000 SF AT EXISTING TEMPORARY DRIVE and the installation of a perimeter fence and TRAILERS NEW 10'-0" EXISTING CENTRAL WIDE GATE security gate, have been resolved through the LOADING &TRASH NEW 10'-0" advisory review process. WIDE GATE

EXISTING

PARKING STRUCTURE The Master Plan was reviewed by the Historic ENTRY & GATE Preservation Commission in November of

2013 and by the Design Commission twice EXISTING FIELD WITH PARKING BELOW in January of 2014, resulting in a unanimous vote to recommend approval of the Master Plan to the Planning Commission. Initial

review by the Planning Commission occurred South Saint John Ave NEW 10'-0" WIDE GATE EXISTING at the end of May, and, as we go to press, the PARKING STRUCTURE ENTRY & GATE Master Plan was to go before the Commission I NEW BLEACHERS WITH WEIGHT ROOM AND for a second time in late September, before OFFICES BELOW: 6,500 SF final review by City Council. EXISTING G ACADEMIC CENTER Two additional design issues are yet to be INTERIOR F REMODEL E CLASSROOMS resolved: EXISTING GYM EXISTING NATATORIUM (N) AND OFFICES C INTERIOR REMODEL 10 CLASSROOMS AND NEW NEW GREEN HOUSE: BLACK BOX THEATRE: ADD The use of the southeast corner of the 500 SF 13,500 SF

J NEW 4'-0" Maranatha campus, presently a grass WIDE GATE NEW 8'-0" WIDE FUTURE UTILITIES field used for overflow parking for special GATE UTILITIES

NEW 10'-0" events, with proposed limitations WIDE GATE NEW SPORTS NEW PLANETARIUM COURTS AT ROOF: 1,500 SF Potential noise from campus pool activities H NEW 2 STORY BLDG NEW CLASSROOMS AND POOL Should the Master Plan be approved, the LOCKERS: 16,000 SF construction of the new buildings would be subject to additional discretionary review. The Zoning Code requires a Director-level NEW 4'-0" WIDE N approval for new construction of 25,000 West Del Mar Blvd GATE MARANATHA SITE PLAN 1 2 square feet within the West Gateway Specific SCALE: NTS

The News 4 Fall 2014 The Note:News Building 5 Fall Heights 2014 are measured from nished grade at base of building. Finish grades slope east and south. LAND USE / PLANNING

BRIEFS Celebrate, transform, protect

Japanese garden forms By Sue Mossman, This is a critically important project in Executive Director, Pasadena Heritage board, non-profit Pasadena’s Civic Center, as it will provide a future for the former YWCA and serve organization Craftsman Weekend in its 23rd year! as a major new building facing City Hall. A newly formed board of directors has As our good friend Dr. Robert Winter is fond Pasadena Heritage has been encouraged by formed a non-profit organization to of saying, the Craftsman Movement revival the design direction we’ve seen so far, but oversee the management and use of the has now lasted longer than the Craftsman more work lies ahead. historic Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden, Movement! 270 Arlington Dr. Council asks for study of residential Pasadena Heritage is delighted design and bungalow courts Designed in the late 1930s and listed on that is the case since Pasadena At its meeting on September 8, City Council the National Register of Historic Places, was the West Coast center agreed to request that its planning staff study the garden has been completely restored of the movement back in measures that can afford more protection and by Connie and Jim Haddad, with the help the early 1900s and remains perhaps incentives for bungalow courts. of Takeo Uesugi, FASLA. The property famous for its wonderful has been in the Haddad family since 1950, Craftsman architecture. From the simplest This housing type was invented in Pasadena when Gamelia Haddad Poulsen, Jim’s of Craftsman bungalows to the sublime and includes several variations on the theme mother, purchased it from the Storrier designs of Charles and Henry Greene at their of a collection of small, individual cottages Stearns estate. best, the Craftsman era is one of our city’s around a central garden. There were more architectural claims to fame. than 200 courts in Pasadena once, and about As a 501(c)(3) organization, all donations half of those remain, but only about 30 have to the garden will be tax deductible and Pasadena Heritage is fortunate to host visitors, an official historic designation. Because of serve as an important source of support both local and from across the country, every their low-density, we fear these properties for its future viability. October who are eager to experience this period during our tours, exhibits, lectures, may be attractive development targets and Restoration of the garden and and special events. Join us October 17–19th would welcome stronger protections for these reconstruction of the teahouse, using the to immerse yourself in the Craftsman historic resources. original plans, has been a labor of love. Movement! All the details are on our website Mansionization a major concern By preserving the integrity of the original at pasasdenaheritage.org. design, the garden will serve as a living Mansionization is another concern of many museum that will grow in importance Kimpton Hotel project back on track in single-family neighborhoods, in which as an educational resource for the After negotiation delays, the Kimpton Hotel huge new homes have been recently built community. proposal to rehabilitate the former YWCA, that are out of scale and character with designed by renowned architect Julia Morgan, their surroundings. We hope that some and add an adjacent new building is back on good thinking can be brought to bear on track. Design concept drawings were to have strengthening building standards and/or been presented to the Design Commission in adding residential design standards that Ambassador Gardens late September. will make new construction compatible with Continued from page 4 existing neighborhood character.

Former Sunrise parcel Finally, entitlements were approved for the former Sunrise parcels along Green Street, making way for the construction of another 78 for-sale condominiums, in place of the previous 248-unit assisted-living development. This phase of Ambassador Gardens is now going through the Design Review process with a Concept Review hearing anticipated this fall. To tour the property, contact Tom Newell Immerse in the Ambassador Gardens Sales Center, yourself located in the Merritt Mansion at 380 W. in the Green St. Craftsman Movement

The News 6 Fall 2014 The News 7 Fall 2014 LAND USE / PLANNING LAND USE / PLANNING

PWP comments on Preparing for historic drought takes state water bond proposition years of planning, water banking By Cynthia Kurtz Believe it or By Shan Kwan Member, MWD Board of Directors, not, Southern Assistant General Manager Pasadena representative California has Water Division was appointed by the Pasadena City been a leader in Pasadena Water & Power Council in April 2013 to serve as Pasadena’s water efficiency. Direct comparison alifornia Proposition 1, the Water I representative on the Metropolitan Water of water use Bond (Assembly Bill 1471), is on District of Southern California (MWD) Board of Directors. In California, water policy is between 2013 Cthe November 4, 2014 ballot. The and 2014 can always interesting. But during one of the worst measure, if approved, would enact the be misleading Water Quality, Supply, and Infrastructure drought in California’s history, it is especially challenging. because of Improvement Act of 2014 and authorize the hotter $7.5 billion in general obligation bonds for Our predicament temperatures Cynthia J. Kurtz state water supply infrastructure projects to Today we find ourselves with too little rainfall, this year. However, per capita water use has improve an aging infrastructure and protect rising temperatures and reduced imported and declined 24% since the late 1980s. water supplies, including: local water. Rainfall over the past 12 months in MWD doubled its conservation budget last Public water system improvements; Los Angeles County has been 40% of average, year. These funds supplement the rebates from San Diego County has experienced the driest Surface and groundwater storage; Continued on page 10 Drinking water protection; 12 months on record, and Riverside County has experienced nearly record dry conditions. Water recycling and advanced water- treatment technology; Statewide temperatures this year have been About Cynthia Kurtz 4.7 degrees warmer that average. Southern Water-supply management and In addition to serving as Pasadena’s California was even warmer than that, at 5.7 conveyance; representative to the Metropolitan Water degrees above average. District of Southern California (MWD) Drought relief and emergency water Board of Directors, Cynthia J. Kurtz is supplies; and, Water supplies have been constrained. The president and CEO of the San Gabriel allocation from the State Water Project which Ecosystem and watershed protection Valley Economic Partnership, a position and restoration accounts for approximately 1.2 million acre feet in a normal year has been reduced to 96,000 she’s held since January, 2009. In addition, the measure is intended acre feet. Local supplies are limited because of From March 1998 until January 2008, to help protect California’s state water the extensive pumping by local agencies. Cynthia served as Pasadena City Manager. sources. Water for 25 million Californians She began with the City in 1987 as the and more than 700 species flow through Getting ready for drought capital projects administrator and in 1990 the California Delta, which typically Preparing for drought conditions takes became the director of Public Works supplies up to 15% of the water delivered years of planning. You can’t start when the and Transportation. She also served as to Pasadena Water and Power (PWP) drought begins and the thermometer rises. the Interim City Manager for the City of customers. The Delta has seen significant Over the past two decades, MWD and its 26 Covina. declines in water quality and ecosystem member agencies have been taking steps to health. — Proposition 1 would provide funds strengthen the reliability of the region’s water Prior to moving to California, Cynthia for habitat restoration in the Delta. supply. Paramount among these actions was worked for the City of Portland, Oregon, holding a variety of positions in the Office Also, in the event of an earthquake, construction of Diamond Valley Lake in of Transportation and the Bureau of scientists warn that aging levees protecting Hemet during the 1990s. This facility nearly Economic Development. two-thirds of the state’s drinking water doubled the region’s storage capacity. MWD’s could collapse. — Proposition 1 could extensive system of surface and groundwater She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in provide funding for projects that strengthen reservoirs can now store up to 6 million acre Community Development and Housing waterways and better protect supplies against feet of water. This storage allows water to be from Pennsylvania State University and a an earthquake or major flood. banked in wet years and made available during Masters of Arts degree in Transportation droughts and emergencies. and Urban Planning from the University As part of the Pasadena’s Water Integrated But storage alone is not sufficient. Recycling, of Iowa. Resource Plan, PWP is planning a number conservation and groundwater recovery are She lives in Pasadena with her husband Jim key parts of MWD’s Integrated Resource Plan. Continued on page 10 McDermott.

The News 6 Fall 2014 The News 7 Fall 2014 WPRA IN MOTION

A thank-you to our donor-members!

The WPRA appreciates the above-and-beyond financial support of all those who join/contribute. The membership donations listed below include the names of all those who contributed $100 or more between August 2013 and August 2014. If your name is not listed or is not listed correctly, please contact me. We thank you for your support. Linda Zinn, Membership chair, [email protected].

NOTE: To make it easier to help fund the WPRA services and efforts, we have enclosed an envelope within this issue. Just insert (1) the completed form (on the envelope flap) and (2) a check (made out to the WPRA) into the pre-addressed envelope, add a stamp and mail it. You may also donate using your credit card by visiting wpra.net and clicking on EZ Donate in the upper left corner of our home page. The West Pasadena Residents’ Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit public benefit corporation. Memberships and donations are deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Platinum Donald Hall John and Andrea Van de Kamp Vivian Young George and Ruri Sugimoto Mr. and Mrs. David Wyatt Fred Zepeda

Benefactor Mark and Pam Algorri Richard N. Frank Jerry Staub William and Susan Bauman Richard C. Gilman Sarah and Chuck Steidel Barbara and Scott Bice Beth and Bob Hansen Bob and Nino Sutcliffe Fred and Diane Blum Doug and Susan Kranwinkle Betsey Tyler Scott Cameron Carolyn Kunin Lonee and Charles Urtuzuastegui Edward E. Clark Pat Lile Paul and Char Vert Allan and Terri Comstock Samuel Losh Chris Wadden Robert and Kira DeBlasis Charles and Betty McKenney Bart and Pam Wald Stephanie and Leo Dencik Adolfo and Isabel Méndez Tim and Janet Walker Louise Dougherty Tom and Mariann Nolan Lee Wallace Jon Dudley Alfred and Jeanne Paiz Normarie Waybourn Tom and Patricia Ellison Gordon J. Pashgian Carl D. Winberg, M.D. Barney and Courtney Evans Linda and John Seiter Chuck Wojnowski Marcelino and Noemi Ford Barbara Stark

Patron Reid and Kathy Allen Jr. George and Marilyn Brumder Bill and Patti Daly Kathryn W. Ferguson John and Barbara Anglin Craig and Susan Burger Nadine Danz Ty H. Fernandez Norm and Anna Arnheim Rod and Marie A. Burgoyne Tim and Gay Degani Rafael Fineza Bob and Jan Ashford George and Jo Anne Burr Bill and Margi Denton John and Ruth Fleck Bruce and Judy Bailey Timothy Butler Deping DeQuattro Ralph and Francine Flewelling Joan S. and Danford Baker Lois Calhoun Barbara Donagan Clifford Ford Eugene and Liz Baldridge Barbara Campbell Janet Doud Ken Foster Dan and Sandy Bane Dr. and Mrs. Howard D Cantwell Bob and Virginia (Ginny) Doyle Tom and Louise Fox Michael Barish Maggi Cherniss Josh and Heather Drake James (Jim) B. and Jane Fox Geoffrey Baum and Lisa Gallaway Chuck and Janet Chillingworth Richard and Barbara Ealy Willis and Anita Freeman Bob and Louise Beggs Gus and Judith Christopoulos Richard W. Eckardt Carl and Shirin Friedlander Martyn Belmont Dawn Herbuveaux Cobb Steve and Janet Elkins Katherine Gabel Christine Benter David and Susan Codiga Sally English Jill Ganon Jack and Lasley Biven Ramon Cortines Max and Jane Factor Sarah Gavit Mrs. William E. Bloomer Alice and Joe Coulombe Mr. and Mrs. R.L. Farmer David and Dianne Germany Bill and Claire Bogaard Jim and Karen Cutts Pat and Kathy Feely Don and Meg Gertmenian Bryon and Mary Ann Boyer Ambassador and Mrs. Ray and Sydney Feeney Dennis and Susi Gertmenian Judith B. Brandt Peter H. Dailey Don and Jackie Feinstein Jim and Priscilla Gilliam

The News 8 Fall 2014 The News 9 Fall 2014 WPRA IN MOTION

Kenneth and Patricia Glazier Joyce and Charles Lee Norah Morley Thomas Seifert Fred Glienna Sue and John Leisner Larry and Petite Morrison John and Monica Shaffer James M. Gomes Janet and Jeff Leitzinger Dale and Yan Morrison Patricia L. Shanks Robert and Donna Grossi George and Valerie Leiva Margaret Morrow Dr. Anthony and Iris Shaw Marijke Grotz Heather and Harvey Lenkin Charles Morse Drury Sherrod James Gruettner Margaret Leong Eugenia Riordan Mule Shirley R. Shivers Kathleen Grzegorek Mary T. Lewis Donald Neal Nick and Jasmin Shupper Martin and Barbara Haase Chris and Kristi Link Ryan Newman Mike and Jill Sigler Larry D. Hall Sara Lippincott Howard and Virginia Noll Barbara Simpson Kenyon Harbison and Ethan and Joanne Lipsig Donna Maria O’Connor Don Skeoch Caitlin Wheeler Michelle and Bob Liset Dennis and Linda O’Leary Jim and Judy Spencer Thomas Hays Yvonne Llewellyn Steve and Kay Onderdonk Faye Stabler Joan Hearst Claude and Frank Logan Margit Onufer Alexandra C. Stadtler Phyllis and Michael Hennigan Don and Elaine Lomas Joy K. Otte Mr. and Mrs. William E. Betty Henno Else and Robert Lord Katherine Padilla Steinwedell Christine Hessler Eileen and Willy Ma Tom and Cheryl Palfrey Roger Stephens Tom and Laurie Hill J. Mabritto Pasadena Heritage Taylor Stirling Lois and Jonel Hill Anthony Macauley Pasadena Museum of History Catherine Stringer Charles Hilliard Sarah MacDowall John and Patrice Peck Ming and Mai Tai Priscilla and Gary Hoecker Robert Mackin Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Pelton Christopher S. and Pat Teske Martin and Heather Holford Lourita E. MacNeill Marjorie Peterson Vicky L Thomas Laja Holland Rick and Jennifer Madden Eugene and Geraldine Peterson Martha and John Thompson Robert C. and Marilyn M. Mahan Denise Petitfils Laura and Rupert Thompson Mary Fauvre Holmes Willy and Eileen Mahan Chris and Jean Pisano Robert and Sharilyn Thorell Chuck and Jody Hudson Nancy Gobar Mallicoat Jeffery and Kaya Plansker John A. Tolbert Thomas R. Huteson Bob and Marvine Malouf Dr. Vance and Maureen Polich William and Susan Tully Andy and Joanne Ice Ms. Virginia Maltby Max and Stacey Pray Bill and Jaine Urban John and Barbara Irigoyen Richard and Karen Mandeville Jane Quinn John and Andrea Van de Kamp William and Pam Irwin Marlow and Herrad Marrs Carrie and William Rabkin Nancy and Peter Van Den Hout Virginia Jannetty J. Howard and Ilene Marshall Marilyn Randolph Jim and Gail Vernon Paul and Missy Jennings Phillip and Lois Mattews Roy W. and Elaine Reeves Lynn Waggoner Dr. and Mrs. Jeyaranjan John Matthes William Reynolds Carole Walker Ron and Jerri Johnson Marty and Cyndy Mayer Brent and Carla Riggs Robin and Jim Walther John and Erin Johnson Stan and Kim McClain George Rippel Lily Wang Richard Jones Michael McCormick Bob Ritter Maria Low and George Way Marilyn and Phil Jordan Judith and Stephen McDonald David and Masami Robson Lawrence S. Westfall Brian Kabateck Richard and Dorothy Rogers Blair and Kate Westlake Michael and Janet Kadin Rosemary McDonald Melina Root J. Patrick and Lynda Whaley Sun Kang Bill and Nancy McDonald Darryl Dunn, Ian and Barbara White-Thomson Laila Karme, M.D. Delford McGee Rose Bowl Operating Company Judy and John Whiting William and Priscilla Kennedy Ian and Elizabeth McGregor John and Kelly Rouse Edgar and Peggy Whitmore Lisa Kenyon Judith McLaughlin Stephen Russell Susan Vance Wilson Aasia Kinney Mel and Marcia Means Joyce and Jan Sakonju Robert Winter Keith Kinsman Emily and Scott Mencken Michael and Carmie Saldana Elsbeth Wittler Hank and Jill Klein William Meurer John and Olga Salisbury Bill and Rebecca Woods Jan Klopfenstein Mr. and Mrs. Lary Mielke Elizabeth Samson Heinz and Rosemarie Zaiser Ryan and Alison Knoll Carolyn Miller Michael Sanchez Dale and Laurie Zeh Robert and Liz Krug John and Juli Miller Hector and Ingrid Sanchez Stanley Zerne Terry and Teresa Krupczak Louisa N. Miller John and Ann Scheid Linda Zinn Sidney and Hiroko Kunitake Suzanne Miller Bill and Sharon Schlarb Coralie Kupfer Troy and Terri Miller Joshua and Juli Schneiderman Jim and Laura LaBarge Usman and Dorothy Scully Stuart Landau Shahbano Mohammed Gerald and Donna Secundy

The News 8 Fall 2014 The News 9 Fall 2014 NEIGHBORHOOD SAFETY

Preparing for drought Working group, City continue to Continued from page 7 seek ways to make Avenue 64 safer member agencies for turf removal, efficient appliances and other water saving devices. By Bob Holmes The group also recommended installing a The Board also approved a $5.5 million multi- Secretary, WPRA raised median on segments of Avenue 64 with media campaign to make customers aware Neighborhood Safety no driveways on either side. of the severity of the drought and the money esidents in the vicinity of Avenue 64 The Department of Transportation saving steps available to conserve water. continue to be very concerned about announced that funding has been slated for It’s working Rthe traffic on Avenue 64. two speed-feedback signs on Avenue 64 south of Malcolm. In July the MWD had 80,000 unique visitors Some of the issues they face are speeding, to its SoCal Water $mart website — a 265% unsafe lane changes, disregarding traffic signs The City has also done some restriping at increase from July 2013. and endangering pedestrians. Avenue 64 and Melrose, but the pedestrian crosswalk has not been restriped. Residential customers have expressed The City of Pasadena has responded to these interest in 2.5 million sq. ft. of turf removal concerns by forming the San Rafael Complete The City has hired a contractor to design projects and commercial customers are Streets Working Group, which is made up the suggested changes to each intersection. looking at an additional 4.7 million sq. ft. of residents in the area and is chaired by When the designs are complete, the group Rich Dilluvio of the City’s Department of will examine the alternatives and choose the We’ve seen a 180% increase in commercial Transportation. The group has been asked ones to be implemented. The current schedule rebates, and residential rebates have doubled. to recommend both long- and short-term calls for the designs to be completed by mid- The staff reports to the Board monthly on changes to the configuration of the streets in September. the use of these programs and the Board is the area to alleviate the problems. prepared to increase the budget again. The group met with the Department of Californians know how to get through tough Transportation and identified changes to five LOOKING BACK, 1905: times. And we will get through this drought. intersections that could increase traffic safety. Arbor Street: But we need to keep planning for future “Opened by I. M. Hill, and The intersections and suggested changes are water reliability for all of California. named from the cypress arbor leading from Avenue 64 and: the front of his house to Orange Grove Avenue. Inside the MWD Glenullen: add bulbouts This house was the third one built in the original colony settlement – built by Col. J. The MWD is a water wholesaler. It Nithdsale: add bulbouts, ADA ramps and Banbury, who also planted and trained the purchases, transports and stores water, a traffic signal arbor in front, and it was a notable thing in the and then sells it to its 26 member Cheviotdale: install a median strip and early colony days, as a cool and shady place agencies to supplement local supplies. bulbouts for the family meals in warm weather, and the On average MWD delivers 1.8 to Burleigh: add a traffic circle scene of many delightful social gatherings. 2 million acre feet of water a year Church: add crosswalks and ADA ramps [The arbor was cut away in 1895.]” within its six-county, 5,200 sq. mile — History of Pasadena, by Hiram Reid in 1895 service area. MWD is governed by a 37-member Board of Directors, which is appointed by the member agencies. PWP comments… Continued from page 7 Mayor Bogaard… of projects, including the following, to protect located under Pasadena when imported Continued from page 3 our current and future water supply: replenishment water is available from the Metropolitan Water District; “You cannot overstate the profound impact A recycled water distribution system for Protection of drinking water sources from that Mayor Bogaard has had in virtually landscape irrigation demands at Brookside new contaminants by applying required every major accomplishment in Pasadena Golf Course and adjacent customers; treatments; and, over the past 15 years,” said City Manager Stormwater capture behind Devil’s Gate Michael Beck. “Pasadena would not be Dam in the Arroyo Seco and construction Aggressive conservation measures through recognized as a national role model city,” of a conveyance system to Eaton Canyon resident incentives and rebates. he added “without his leadership. Mayor to recharge groundwater; —Passage of Proposition 1 could provide Bogaard embodies the best qualities that Addition to groundwater storage reserves additional funding for PWP to complete these people want in an elected official.” in the Raymond groundwater basin water supply and conservation projects.

The News 10 Fall 2014 The News 11 Fall 2014 EDUCATION

BRIEFS A letter from San Rafael Elementary

PCC superintendent- Editor’s note: The WPRA has “adopted” San Rafael Elementary School, president retires 1090 Nithsdale Rd., which is the last public elementary school in west Pasadena City College Superintendent- Pasadena, through the WPRA-sponsored Student Enrichment Program. President Mark Rocha, PhD, has retired Dear friends of the West Pasadena The combination from his position, effective August 31. of our academic Dr. Rocha said his decision was a personal e’re off to an incredible start for growth over the one. “I’ve started my tenth year as a the 2014-2015 school year at San last two years, community college president, and that WRafael. We begin the year with acknowledgment by is a good long run in this kind of work. the highest enrollment the school has seen in the State of California It’s time for me to spend more time with years, and we just keep growing! as a Distinguished my family and return to my passion for We have three full Dual Language Immersion School for 2014, and Rudy Ramirez teaching and writing.” Dr. Rocha was Kindergarten classes, bringing our total our continued enrollment surge has created appointed as the 13th president of PCC on enrollment to more than 450 students. a lot of excitement and a sense of vitality in July 1, 2010. (Source: Pasadena Star-News) Additionally, our Dual Language program Pre- our school community. Step on to our campus School classes are filled to capacity. Demand Art Center buys building at (and I encourage you to visit any time!) and for a spot at San Rafael is keeping us busy! Gateway to Pasadena you can feel the energy. We are proud of our past accomplishments, certainly, but have our Art Center College of Design continues to Of course, with the increase in enrollment sights set on future achievements. As I’ve noted expand its educational reach and resources comes the challenge of more cars coming into before, our motto is “The Best Is Yet to Come!” with the acquisition of 1111 South Arroyo the neighborhood for student drop-off and Parkway and plans to build student pick-up. We are working hard to meet the And we count on your support for our housing on South Raymond Avenue. challenge with consistent communication, continued success. The West Pasadena The largest transaction in the College’s community dialogue, and, most important, a Residents’ Association has done so much history, the $27.4 million purchase of traffic flow management system that works. for our school – through volunteers, the building at the gateway to Pasadena We have two carpool or “valet” lines for grants, advocacy and beyond. We look was made possible in large part due to morning and afternoon, one on the south forward to a year filled with even more the reallocation of an unprecedented $15 side of Nithsdale in front of the school, and opportunities for partnership, and invite million gift to Art Center from Southern one on the west side of San Miguel. We are you to share in our celebrations and California philanthropists and classic encouraging all parents of 2nd-5th graders experience the vibrant atmosphere of the car enthusiasts Peter and Merle Mullin. to use these lines, and have assigned teachers school firsthand. San Rafael is a unique The donation was originally restricted to help as monitors. I am pleased to report community, and we are grateful to be a to the construction of a new industrial that we are already seeing an increase in the part of what makes it so special. and transportation design facility to be use of the valet lines, which over time should built on the corner of Glenarm Street significantly improve traffic flow and reduce and Raymond Avenue. The College will the need for parking on surrounding blocks. finance the remaining cost of the South Arroyo property by way of a state bond issue, with plans to repay the debt through SAVE THE DATE: a capital campaign. The facility will include classrooms, a “making” workshop and WPRA Neighborhood Candidates Forum studio spaces, as well as administrative offices. The expansion of the College’s With Mayor Bill Bogaard’s recent decision in the large courtroom of the Richard H. facilities will not only relieve overcrowding not to seek re-election, next year’s Pasadena Chambers Ninth Circuit Courthouse located on the Hillside Campus but also, more municipal election promises to be a historic at 125 South Grand Avenue, Pasadena. time for choosing and change. West Pasadena importantly, allow Art Center to improve Candidates will be questioned about issues voters will have the opportunity to help elect the experience for faculty, students and important to West Pasadena, including crime, a new Mayor and possibly a new District 6 staff. The purchase provides much needed public education, traffic, development, the 710 Councilmember. square footage for the transportation and Freeway extension, and use of the Rose Bowl. industrial design shops and programs to WPRA does not endorse candidates, but we The forum will include an opportunity for grow at the Hillside Campus, located on do encourage west Pasadena residents to voters to directly question the candidates. Lida Street above the Rose Bowl. become informed voters. Toward that end, on If you have thoughts or ideas for the forum, (Source: Pasadena Now) Tuesday, January 27, 2015, the WPRA will host please send an email to Vince Farhat (vince. a Neighborhood Candidates Forum from [email protected]) or Blaine Cavena 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. The forum will be held ([email protected]).

The News 10 Fall 2014 The News 11 Fall 2014 COMMUNITY

First WPRA president dies at 93

ichard William Jencks of Mill Valley, law degrees at Stanford University. His career formerly of Pasadena, died June in broadcasting culminated with becoming R30 at the age of 93. He was the first president of the CBS broadcast group and president of the West Pasadena Residents’ member of the board. Association, as well as a retired president of He is survived by his wife, Mary; his son, the CBS Broadcast Group and member of the Michael Reynolds Jencks; his daughter, Nancy network’s board of directors. de Laguna Jencks; and step-children Lynn A fourth generation Californian, Mr. Jencks C. Collins, Martha M. Barrett, Elizabeth was born in Oakland in 1921. He attended B. Snyder, George B. Barrett III and two the University of California at Berkeley, but grandchildren. his studies were interrupted by World War II. After the war, he completed his bachelor’s and

Richard W. Jencks ‘Jencks helped change the face of Pasadena politics’

By Bill Bogaard downzoned and otherwise protected single- As I noted, Richard’s influence — and his Mayor, City of Pasadena family neighborhoods around the city while inspiration — were most profound in regard represented Council District 6 for eight mixed-use and multifamily projects were to the Arroyo Seco. I view the creation, years in the 1980s, and during that I time authorized for the first time in the central during the early 80’s, of the ordinance I worked closely with Marge (Weller) and business district and other commercial protecting the Arroyo Seco to be the direct Becky (Wheeler), [WPRA’s co-founders] centers, such as North Lake, east Pasadena result of Richard’s legacy. As the ordinance who provided a direct link to Richard Jencks’ and East Colorado Boulevard. That planning was proposed and pursued, it became highly legacy. approach has guided the entire city since then controversial — as were so many right- and is likely to be affirmed in the coming year, At that point, Richard had already gone when the General Plan update is completed. Continued on page 13 on to the rest of his distinguished career in broadcasting, but he was a major inspiration to the WPRA and its leaders during the entire Jencks made important, lasting contributions period of my service. His influence was strongest in regard to the Becky Wheeler and Marge Weller target correction of another problem: lack Lower Arroyo, but extended to land-use issues Co-founders, WPRA of west side representation on the Planning of all kinds that were directed to protecting ichard Jencks first emerged on the Commission. and enhancing our quality of life. Richard scene in west Pasadena, unheralded Naively we submitted a list of about l0 west had established himself as a defender of the Rand unknown, during the height of side residents — highly qualified people — prevailing neighborhood environment, and the high-rise controversy in the early 1970s. for consideration. his commitment subsequently and firmly Coincidentally, his articulate, forceful speech When the Commission ignored our request, guided WPRA’s planning and the advocacy. before the City Board of Directors opposing we concluded that it was time to start on the Time and again, developers would make the City’s position perfectly mirrored ours. We “other side of the rail.” That is, nothing was proposals for multifamily projects — in fact, tracked him down and immediately realized going to change significantly until the make- any projects not involving single-family use — that we’d found our leader. up of the City Board was changed. and WPRA would gear up once again, in the Richard’s first move was to coalesce into one Once again we looked to Richard. We fought spirit of Richard Jencks, to maintain the single- cohesive group the various smaller groups a wild campaign, but Richard ultimately won family character of the area. The area west of within our area that had been opposing a seat on the City Board. South Orange Grove Boulevard came to be various controversial decisions issued by the sacred; the boulevard was viewed as a Maginot Planning Commission and the City Board. Unfortunately, he was not able to complete Line. The elegance of District 6 neighborhoods This group became the West Pasadena his term. CBS had called Richard back to today results directly from the values Richard Residents’ Association. Washington and service as a position as a held dear and compellingly promoted. senior vice president. Fresh off our successful campaign to stop Jencks’ commitment in this regard was later the City’s idea to put high-rise buildings on Fortunately for west Pasadena, city politics codified in the 1994 General Plan, which Orange Grove Boulevard, we set as our next and government would never be the same.

The News 12 Fall 2014 The News 13 Fall 2014 COMMUNITY COMMUNITY

Pasadena’s urban forest West Pasadena mixes, mingles Continued from page 1 at WPRA summer social Scope of threat to be determined Still, the full extent of the impact in n Sunday, August 17, the WPRA future gatherings.” Cheers, Rudy and Pasadena is not yet known, but Peretz hosted a neighborhood summer Sherry T. social at John and Andrea Van de said that it certainly has officials very O “Congratulations on a successful summer Kamp’s home in San Rafael. A great time was concerned. party. Thank you for the personal invitation had by all, but we’ll let some of those who to attend this event.” Bill Bogaard, Mayor “Unfortunately, at this time no biological attended say it in their own way. or chemical solution has been found to “The WPRA always makes me remember “What a delight it was! Walking the full length either eradicate the pest or even mitigate what Pasadena is all about. Call anytime.” — front door through house to the garden its impact,” said Peretz. Gene D. past the pool to more; all a treat — happy chitchat all the way. I loved it all, including “Yes, it was an outstanding get-together last the big old food truck, plus friends - old and Sunday, and I do admire and appreciate Jencks helped change new!” Thank you, all. Carol B. the work that has been done to protect our neighborhood and at the same time help our “Thank you for the opportunity to enjoy the the face of Pasadena wonderful city. Thank you again for your beautiful setting and the charming company caring help.” Bob B. Continued from page 12 last Sunday. It is a terrific event, and you deserve a lot of credit for all your involvement “What a great idea to have such a gathering minded initiatives in that era, such as height in keeping our Pasadena neighborhood so of neighbors. We are so pleased that many of limits, neighborhood protection, historic l ov e l y.” Warm regards, Pat L. our friends were in attendance. We both look preservation, opposition to eminent domain forward to attending in the future!” Myra B. “Thank you for the opportunity to get to and to developer subsidies, urban design and know our neighbors! We look forward to “A great event. Thanks.”District 6 “managed growth.” Councilmember Steve Madison In promoting this ordinance, the WPRA and Pasadena Heritage turned time and again to Richard’s history of the Arroyo Seco and to news reports of his compelling advocacy at the City Council for the “ammunition” needed to persuade the community and Council that the Arroyo Seco deserves the entire community’s strong and uncompromising protection. Today, controversies emerge and battles are waged over our precious Arroyo Seco, but a strong foundation for its preservation and protection is based in the Richard Jencks’ In the above photos attendees clearly enjoyed the balmy afternoon and cheerful chitchat inspired Arroyo Seco ordinance. Other present in abundance durings the first (to be annual) WPRA summer neighborhood social. In debates are common about building heights, the photo below, District 6 Councilmember Steve Madison, host John Van de Kamp and Mayor Bill Bogaard mark the moment during an event that was otherwise casual and thoroughly density of development, architectural design, enjoyable. (Photos by Jody and Chuck Hudson) and other land use issues. Richard’s service over 40 years ago framed these issues as they are discussed today. He left a powerful and prevailing mark on WPRA, southwest Pasadena and the rest of the city. He will never be forgotten.

The News 12 Fall 2014 The News 13 Fall 2014 COMMUNITY

La Casita reopens after massive upgrade, renovation

By Thomas Seifert, President, La Casita Foundation he grand re-opening to celebrate the successful renovation of La Casita del TArroyo was held on the afternoon of July 29 to a standing-room-only audience. The partnership between the City of Pasadena and the La Casita Foundation worked exceedingly well, and the project was both on time and on budget. High-fives all around! La Casita del Arroyo is now open and ready for business. It has a new roof, new HVAC units and fabulous new kitchen and restrooms. The community meeting room has been completely renovated. This includes the flooring, acoustical wall covering and lighting, along with the miraculously restored velodrome wood. The community room also sports new functional, yet attractive, furniture, with more to come. The next chapter is to make the La Casita reservation process as easy and as pleasant as Participating in the ceremonial ribbon-cutting to reopen La Casita are (from left) District 6 Councilmember Steve Madison, Mayor Bill Bogaard, La Casita Foundation President Thomas possible and at a reasonable cost. Seifert and City Manager Michael Beck. (Photo by Randy Wilson) This function is the responsibility of the City’s Human Services & Recreation Department, To reserve space, contact Dolores either by The department is currently undergoing a under the direction of Director Mercy telephone, at (626) 744-7507 or by email at study of like facilities in the general area to Santoro, with Dolores Mendoza as the point [email protected]. compare rates, terms and conditions. person within the department. None of this would have been possible without the generous outpouring of financial support from our donor group of friends and neighbors. The key to our successful partnership with the City revolved around our being able to hold up our end of the bargain. For that, I extend my most sincere thanks. Special thanks also go to our founding and benefactor organization, the Pasadena Garden Club, whose continued support has been invaluable, and to two additional organizations that were major contributors to our renovation effort: Pasadena Community Foundation and the West Pasadena Residents’ Association. La Casita is a treasured jewel of the City of Pasadena and deserving of our collective respect and appreciation. Come take it for a test drive, and let us know how it performs The newly refurbished and upgraded kitchen (Photo by Randy Wilson) for you.

The News 14 Fall 2014 The News 15 Fall 2014 COMMUNITY

Gone, but not forgotten Glen Rosa: ‘One of the choicest places in Pasadena’

[Editor’s note: The Pasadena Museum of back. It certainly is one of the choicest places lots with a frontage of 630 feet on Palmetto History graciously provides WPRA News in Pasadena.” were sold. A souvenir publication that year readers with historical vignettes that reveal stated “The unsold portion of Glen Rosa Mr. Nelmes was responsible for naming our city’s past and inform our future.] that borders on this canyon will doubtless Grand Avenue. In 1885, when the idea of a someday be adorned with fine residences, for By Kirk Myers wide street between South Orange Grove no choicer spots can be found in Pasadena. Assistant Archivist and the Arroyo bluff was brought up among The ones who secure these sites, and there are Pasadena Museum of History property owners, Mrs. I.M. Hill exclaimed, many people of wealth looking for such, will “O, wouldn’t that be grand!” Nelmes replied, t was a landmark in early Pasadena, and the be fortunate indeed.” “And that shall be its name – Grand Avenue!” scene of many community gatherings in the The Pasadena Museum of History is located 1880s and 90s. Years before Busch Gardens On February 5, 1887 ThePasadena Union I at the corner of N. Orange Grove and W. gained fame, its beautiful grounds attracted reported “Thomas Nelmes and Wm. T. Clapp Walnut. Parking is free in the museum’s lot. The thousands of eastern visitors, who appreciated have signed an Agreement for the widening of Research Library and Archives are open to the the sign at the entrance on South Orange California street to seventy feet from Orange public free of charge Thursday-Sunday from 1-4 Grove – “Visitors welcome. Each visitor shall Grove avenue to the Arroyo Drive, a distance pm. For additional information, please visit the be allowed to pick one orange.” of 2000 feet …. ” Museum’s website, PasadenaHistory.org, or call In 1881, Thomas Nelmes, a wealthy tea Glen Rosa was first subdivided during the 626/577-1660, ext. 10. merchant from London, purchased 30 acres land boom of the 1880s. In 1893, seven on the northwest corner of California and Orange Grove Avenue, extending north to Palmetto and west to the Arroyo. He named his place Glen Rosa, an allusion to his native Scotland. In May of 1881 he planted an orange grove on the site of a barley field, and began a transformation of the grounds that led the Pasadena and Valley Union to note on May 21, 1886: “We always considered the corner of Orange Grove avenue and California street The entrance to a choice corner, but we must confess we were Glen Rosa on South surprised to find so beautiful a place at the Orange Grove.

A view of Glen Rosa looking southeast, showing what appears to be a barn in the center. Pasadena historian C.F. Shoop wrote in 1955 “There was a large house for the family and a cottage for some of the help: barns and stables galore.”

The News 14 Fall 2014 The News 15 Fall 2014 NON-PROFIT ORG. WEST PASADENA U.S. POSTAGE RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION PAID Post Office Box 50252 PASADENA, CA Pasadena, CA 91115-0252 PERMIT #1105 Visit our website @ wpra.net

Pasadena: city on call Make your own motion!

Police Department Our representatives need to hear from you. Take a few Emergency...... 9-1-1 minutes to make your voice heard, and make your Pasadena Crime Stoppers...... (800) 222-8477 own motion. Non-Emergency...... (626) 744-4241

Services Pasadena Bulky trash items...... (626) 744-4158 Missed trash pickup...... (626) 744-4087 Mayor Bill Bogaard Missed residential recycling pickup .(626) 744-4087 [email protected] New trash container...... (626) 744-4087 City Manager Michael J. Beck New street light...... (626) 744-4191 [email protected] Pothole...... (626) 744-4158 Jacque Robinson, District 1 (vice mayor) Recycling...... (626) 744-4087 [email protected] Sewer problem...... (626) 744-4158 Shopping cart pickup...... (626) 744-8227 Margaret McAustin, District 2 Street light not working...... (626) 744-4158 [email protected] Storm drain blockage...... (626) 744-4158 John Kennedy, District 3 Traffic signal malfunction...... (626) 744-4158 [email protected] Traffic signal timing problems.....(626) 744-4191 Gene Masuda, District 4 Frequently called numbers [email protected] City information operator ...... (626) 744-4000 Victor Gordo, District 5 Abandoned vehicles ...... (626) 744-7627 [email protected] Alarm permits ...... (626) 744-4166 Steve Madison, District 6 Animal control ...... (626) 792-7151 [email protected] ARTS bus ...... (626) 744-4055 Terry Tornek, District 7 Code enforcement ...... (626) 744-4633 Dog licenses ...... (626) 744-4501 [email protected] Graffiti...... (626) 744-7622 Historic preservation ...... (626) 744-4009 California Neighborhood Watch ...... (626) 744-4550 Park/picnic reservations ...... (626) 744-7275 Senator Carol Liu (D-21), (818) 409-0400 Parking permits/exemptions ...... (626) 744-6440 Assemblymember Chris Holden (D-41), (626) 351-1917 Parking tickets ...... (626) 744-4360 Street tree maintenance ...... (626) 744-4321 United States Trash pick-up ...... (626) 744-4087 Water/power billing inquiries ...... (626) 744-4005 Representative Judy Chu (D-27), (626) 304-0110 Yard sale permits ...... (626) 744-4200 Representative Adam Schiff(D-28), (818) 450-2900 Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA), (202) 224-3553 The West Pasadena Residents’ Association is a Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), (202) 224-3841 501(c)(3) non-profit public benefit corporation.

The News 16 Fall 2014 The News PB Fall 2014