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Friday, December 29, 2023

The Altadena Chamber of Commerce & Civic Association Sets Centennial Celebration

The Altadena Chamber of Commerce & Civic Association Sets Centennial Celebration

STAFF REPORT

The Altadena Chamber of Commerce & Civic Association will mark one hundred years of serving Altadena with a Centennial Celebration. This very special occasion will also honor Doug Colliflower as Citizen of the Year and El Patron as Business of the Year for 2023. The Celebration and Awards Banquet will be held from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. on February 2, at the Altadena Town & Country Club. “It’s going to be a wonderful event. We are so excited to be celebrating one hundred years of the Altadena Chamber,” said Altadena Chamber President Judy Matthews.

Citizen of the Year recipient, Doug Colliflower, is a long-time resident of Altadena who has been active in the community for more than thirty five years. A realtor who specializes in the real estate needs of senior citizens, Mr. Colliflower is well known to many in Altadena. He is a Director and Immediate Past President of the Rotary Club of Altadena, serves on the Altadena Town Council,

Read More »

Friday, June 16, 2023

LA County Unemployment Rate Rises in May

LA County Unemployment Rate Rises in May

CITY NEWS SERVICE

Los Angeles County’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate ticked upward slightly to 5% in May, up from a revised 4.9% in April, according to figures released Friday by the state Employment Development Department.

The 5% rate was above the 4.7% rate from May 2023.

In Orange County, where seasonally adjusted numbers were not available, the May unemployment rate was 3.2%, up slightly from 3% the previous month.

Statewide, the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 4.5% in May, 4.5% in April and 4% in May 2022. The comparable figures for the nation were 3.7% in May, 3.4% in April and 3.6% a year ago.

Total nonfarm employment in Los Angeles County increased by 9,000 positions between April and May to reach more than 4.6 million.

The leisure and hospitality sector led the way by adding 11,600 jobs, according to the EDD.

Read More »

Tuesday, May 16, 2023

LA County Property Assessment Expected to Near $2 Trillion

LA County Property Assessment Expected to Near $2 Trillion

CITY NEWS SERVICE

This year’s assessment of property values in Los Angeles County is expected to rise by 5% over last year, reaching nearly $2 trillion, according to a forecast released Tuesday by county Assessor Jeff Prang.

“It has been a challenging couple of years as the local and national economies respond to a variety of factors, including COVID,” Prang said in a statement. “But our analysis indicates property value growth for the 13th consecutive year. This is good news for property owners and for local government, which depends on property taxes to pay for vital public services. However, the real estate market in 2022 began more robustly than it ended, and the sluggish market is likely to continue through this year.”

The 2022 assessed valuation of properties in the county was $1.89 trillion, up nearly 7% from the previous year. The 2023 tax roll assessment will be completed in July.

According to Prang’s office, the nearly $2 trillion assessment would translate into about $20 billion in property tax money to fund county services.

Read More »

Monday, November 15, 2021

Altadena Small Businesses Could Receive Rent Relief From New Program

Altadena Small Businesses Could Receive Rent Relief From New Program

CITY NEWS SERVICE

Altadena small businesses that have fallen behind in their rent due to the COVID-19 pandemic are eligible for a $40,000 relief grant.

Supervisor Holly Mitchell hosted a virtual news conference Monday to announce the program, which is funded with federal coronavirus aid dollars.

“The Small Business Rent Relief cannot come soon enough for the countless businesses that have had to weather the costly and unpredictable impact of COVID-19. As Los Angeles County starts to recover, our employers have been left with crushing amounts of back rent due,” Mitchell said. “This will be just the first of many county projects targeting economic resiliency for our small employers.”

Eligible businesses must:

• have a brick-and-mortar business located in the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County.
• have an annual average of nine or fewer full-time equivalent employees.
• have annual total gross revenues of no more than $1 million; and be able to demonstrate a gross revenue loss of at least 25% over a 12-month time frame falling at least in part within the period of the county’s COVID-19 Emergency Order that went into effect March 4,

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Wednesday, February 10, 2021

Pasadena Jaycees and Altadena Ale House Team Up to Provide Meal Kits to Out-of-Work Restaurant Workers

Pasadena Jaycees and Altadena Ale House Team Up to Provide Meal Kits to Out-of-Work Restaurant Workers

STAFF REPORT

The Pasadena Jaycees are partnering with Altadena Ale House to provide free meal kits to restaurant employees who have been furloughed, laid off, or had their hours cut due to COVID-19.

“With COVID-19 continuing to spread across the globe, millions remain out of work,” according to a statement released Wednesday. “One of the industries most impacted by this pandemic has been the restaurant industry, with an astounding 11% of the population of California working in restaurants in some capacity.”

Restaurant workers have been heavily impacted by the virus. Many have been out of work for nearly a year and continue to struggle to pay rent and buy food for themselves and their families, according to the release.

The Jaycees are seeking donations to help cover the costs of the kits — $25 buys one kit which feeds two people. Donations can be made via Venmo (@Jaycee-Treasurer), PayPal (paypal.me/pasadenajaycees), or check (payable to Pasadena Jaycees, 474 W.

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Monday, February 1, 2021

Altadena-Based Prospect Park Books is Acquired By Turner Publishing

Altadena-Based Prospect Park Books is Acquired By Turner Publishing

STAFF REPORT

Altadena-based Prospect Park Books has been sold to Turner Publishing Co., according to an announcement released Sunday.

The acquisition, effective Sunday, January 31, comprises more than 100 existing titles and approximately 11 titles in the process of being published. Turner is purchasing the assets of the company, including the titles, inventory, name, and other intellectual property.

In 2006, Colleen Dunn Bates founded Prospect Park Books in Pasadena with the publication of the first edition of Hometown Pasadena. She gradually expanded the title roster to include fiction (including mysteries), cookbooks, humor, memoir, and regional nonfiction.

Although the authors and titles have roots in many states, as well as Canada and France, Prospect Park’s core strength has been in publishing California authors, including Naomi Hirahara, Lian Dolan, Chris Erskine, Christine Moore, Bill Esparza, Phoef Sutton, Gar Anthony Haywood, Charles Phoenix, Marla Jo Fisher, Andy Weinberger, George Geary, Mary Lea Carroll, Sean Carswell, Rachel Harper, Hans Röckenwagner, Gina Fattore, Karen Rizzo, and Lou Mathews.

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Wednesday, January 6, 2021

L.A. County Development Authority Launches Webinar Program To Help Businesses

L.A. County Development Authority Launches Webinar Program To Help Businesses

CITY NEWS SERVICE

The Los Angeles County Development Authority announced Wednesday it is launching a webinar program to help businesses navigate economic uncertainty amid COVID-19 and prepare for a post-pandemic economy.

The series of webinars offering support and resources will begin on Jan. 12, according to LACDA officials.

The BizHelp Program is in collaboration with three local technical assistance providers — Acelera Advisory Group, the Pacific Asian Consortium in Employment and the Vermont Slauson Economic Development Corporation.

The groups will host webinars on securing financial resources, operating post-pandemic, understanding basics in accounting and bookkeeping and improving business owners’ credit.

“Local small businesses in the County of Los Angeles continue to face obstacles when it comes to securing resources,” Board of Supervisors Chair Hilda L. Solis said. “By lifting up this sector, we can spur innovation, bring back jobs, preserve community character, encourage development and ensure generational prosperity.”

Business operators have to register to participate in the program.

Read More »

Monday, December 28, 2020

Grocery Outlet Altadena Wins Good Food Champion Award

Grocery Outlet Altadena Wins Good Food Champion Award

STAFF REPORT

Grocery Outlet Altadena has been named the Los Angeles Food Policy Council’s Fifth District Good Food Champion.

“We are truly honored to be a good neighbor in our community and take pride in always paying it forward,” store owners Michell and Michale Guajardo said in a message appearing Monday on Twitter.

“Grocery Outlet’s mission is ‘Touching Lives for the Better,’ (and) this is something that we constantly try to live by as local business owners and as members of the Altadena community,” the couple wrote.

Something they are really proud of is their annual national food drive campaign, Independence From Hunger.

During the month of July, Grocery Outlet stores collect food and cash donations, “and this year, our store raised $16,000, which was donated to our local food banks and partner organizations like Friends In Deed,” the Guajardos wrote.

With a matching donation, “our total was brought to $23,000, all of which stayed local and was used to help families in our own community,” they wrote.

Read More »

Thursday, December 3, 2020

Local Altadena Businesses are Getting Creative for The Holidays

Local Altadena Businesses are Getting Creative for The Holidays

The Altadena Chamber of Commerce is helping business owners get creative this holiday season. On Saturday, November 21, 2020, local businesses were invited to participate in Shop Altadena: A Virtual Holiday Mixer, where they could share their services and product offerings.

The event was free to the public and was an excellent opportunity to support local businesses. Many local businesses are committed to remaining open during the holidays by offering online shopping, deliveries, and curbside pickup.

With just a touch of a few computer keys or a phone call, residents may conveniently enjoy the joys of the season while shopping with businesses in our community.

Altadena Farmer’s Market

A local farmers market providing fresh local produce, meats, cheese, and artwork. Gift certificates available. Non-contact pickup and delivery market.
Hours: Thursday-Saturday for pickup; closed the week of Christmas and on New Year’s day
Website: www.afm-subscription.com

BAN Technologies LLC
Combining CBD with cutting edge technology,

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Tuesday, July 28, 2020

Altadena Bank of America Branch Shuts Down Due to Pandemic

Altadena Bank of America Branch Shuts Down Due to Pandemic

The Bank of America branch in Altadena was temporarily closed Monday as a result of the ongoing pandemic, representatives said.

The Bank of America Financial Center at 2345 Lake Ave., south of Altadena Drive, may remain closed through the rest of the week, according to Bank of America spokeswoman Colleen Haggerty said.

“We expect to be able to reopen the Altadena financial center next week,” she said.

A message on the branch’s website advised customers to “visit one of our neighboring ATMs or utilize Online and Mobile Banking, all of which are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.”

Those wishing to make an appointment to access a safe deposit box during regular business hours were instructed to email their full names, addresses and phone numbers to safebox@bofa.com,” the statement added.

“We continue to take several steps to support our clients and employees during the health crisis, which may include briefly closing a financial center,” Haggerty said. 

Read More »

Tuesday, June 2, 2020

L.A. County Business Leaders Urge Officials to Lift Restrictions on Reopening

L.A. County Business Leaders Urge Officials to Lift Restrictions on Reopening

By ELIZABETH MARCELLINO, City News Service

 

Leaders in the film, sports, theme park, business and restaurant industries Tuesday presented detailed plans for reopening to the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, urging county officials to allow them to move as quickly as safely possible.

Members of the Economic Resiliency Task Force have been working for weeks with other industry representatives, including unions, on safety guidelines and best practices.

Supervisor Kathryn Barger, who chairs the committee, began by offering her support for peaceful protests in the name of George Floyd, whose in- custody death in Minneapolis has sparked demonstrations across the U.S. and around the world.

“This board is committed to protecting the right of protesters to exercise their First Amendment right,” Barger said. “I want to remind everyone that it is our vulnerable communities who are experiencing the most severe health and economic impacts of this virus. Family-owned businesses have the smallest margin of error to financially recover …

Read More »

Monday, April 6, 2020

L.A. County Launches $500,000 Employer Assistance Fund

L.A. County Launches $500,000 Employer Assistance Fund

CITY NEWS SERVICE

Los Angeles County is launching a $500,000 fund to provide grants of up to $10,000 each to local businesses in need, officials announced Monday.

Business owners should act fast, as applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis and closed once 150 applications are received.

Supervisor Kathryn Barger said the Board of Supervisors and the Department of Workforce Development, Aging and Community Services joined together to create the fund.

“The coronavirus pandemic has impacted residents and businesses throughout Los Angeles County,” Barger said. “It is vitally important that we pursue every resource available to support local business and help maintain good job opportunities throughout the region.”

The Department of Workforce Development, Aging and Community Services will host a webinar at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday — accessible at bit.ly/BusinessGrantWebinar — to guide business owners on how to apply. The application site will open Wednesday at 8 a.m. at https://workforce.lacounty.gov/.

Read More »

Wednesday, February 5, 2020

L.A. County Honors Brand Orbit for 50-Plus Years of Community Service

L.A. County Honors Brand Orbit for 50-Plus Years of Community Service

 

Brand Orbit, one of the longest and most successful boutique marketing agencies in Southern California, has been officially recognized for its more than 50 years of achievements by the County of Los Angeles with an official scroll presented by Supervisor Kathryn Barger.

In a colorful ceremony at the Altadena Community Center, the county cited the firm’s staying power in a typically volatile industry (52 years), its 42 years of job creation in the county and its award-winning campaigns for a wide variety of regional and national clients.

Present for the honors were Brand Orbit’s founder, Edward Beckett, and its president, Sharon Bailey Beckett, who said the “keys to our success are about developing trustworthy relationships with staff and clients and staying current with the digital age by leveraging new and emerging technologies and trends.”

For an ad agency to last 52 years is an anomaly, according to Beckett, a managing partner and member of the Pasadena Angels investment group. Citing statistics from the U.S.

Read More »

Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Altadena Gets a New Market Thursday, and Its Owners Promise Products Will Be ‘NOSH’

Altadena Gets a New Market Thursday, and Its Owners Promise Products Will Be ‘NOSH’

[Updated] A new grocery store is opening its doors to area residents Thursday, December 13, with the first 200 customers getting gift cards valued at anywhere from $5 to $200 and free reusable grocery bags.

At the same time, the store will donate the equivalent of what customers save for the first hour of Opening Day sales to the Education Committee of the Altadena Town Council, the owners said.

Grocery Outlet Bargain Market, located at 2270 Lake Avenue in Altadena, will open at 9 a.m. Thursday. Before the grand opening, the owners, Mario and Michell Guajardo, are hosting a Preview Night Wednesday, December 12, from 5 to 7:30 p.m., at the store.

Mario said they decided to invest in Altadena because they believe area residents are looking for healthier, more organic alternatives.

“Everyone’s asking for that organic… that healthy brand, and that’s what we’re going to open up with, heavier than most other stores would,” Guajardo said.

Guajardo and his wife were both store managers for Walmart before they decided to open this store of their own.

Read More »

Friday, July 20, 2018

Altadena Chamber of Commerce, Altadena Town Council to Recognize Webster’s Community Pharmacy As A Small Business Winner

Altadena Chamber of Commerce, Altadena Town Council to Recognize Webster’s Community Pharmacy As A Small Business Winner

The Altadena Chamber of Commerce and Civic Association, and the Altadena Town Council, are hosting a Recognition Celebration for Webster’s Community Pharmacy on Thursday, July 26. The pharmacy was recently named California Small Business Winner in Assembly District 41.

The celebration will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Altadena Town and Country Club at 2290 Country Club Drive in Altadena.

Last month, 41st District Assemblymember Chris Holden honored Webster’s Community Pharmacy owners Meredith and Michael Miller during the Annual Small Business of Year Luncheon organized by the California Small Business Association.

“When it comes to a small business making a positive impact in the community, you couldn’t find anyone better than Webster’s Community Pharmacy,” Holden said.

Webster’s employs 25 people, many of whom live in Altadena, and strives to support other businesses in the community.

The Small Business award also recognizes Webster’s involvement in civic affairs and local organizations such as Altadena Heritage,

Read More »

Wednesday, July 18, 2018

Altadena Office Building Reportedly Sells for $11.1 Million

Altadena Office Building Reportedly Sells for $11.1 Million

First City Credit Union has acquired a 55,000 square-foot modern office building in Altadena for $11.5 million, commercial real estate news outlet RenTV said in a report Tuesday.

The report said the property, which was vacant at the time of the sale, was sold by J.L. Moseley Co., Inc. of Pasadena.

Located at 500 West Woodbury, northeast of the 210 Freeway by Lincoln Avenue, the building was vacant at the time of sale. The building is located in one the most fundamentally strong office markets in Los Angeles County, and features two stories, an abundance of windows and updated landscaping.

The building was also recently renovated, including a modernization and cosmetic upgrade of the lobby, common areas, communal space and suites, the report said.

“It is rare to find such a well-located, high-quality, move-in ready office building that can accommodate an owner-user,” Mark Shaffer, Vice President of CBRE, which represented the seller, told RenTV. “We continue to see strong demand from companies looking for high image buildings surrounded by a highly educated labor market and executive and workforce housing.”

A listing on OfficeSpace.com said the building was built in 1988 on 2.03 acres of land.

Read More »

Sunday, June 10, 2018

Iconic Fox’s Restaurant in Altadena Reopens With New Owners, But Same Neighborhood Charm

Iconic Fox’s Restaurant in Altadena Reopens With New Owners, But Same Neighborhood Charm

Since opening in 1955, Fox’s Restaurant on Lake Avenue in Altadena has served as a neighborhood staple for good eats and no-frills breakfast and lunch.

After longtime family owners put it up for sale last fall, new owners and chefs Paul Rosenbluh and his wife Monique King intend to keep that tradition alive.

Fox’s reopened this week following seven months of revamping, including a new menu featuring signature dishes with familiar flavors and cosmetic upgrades needed after 62 years of operation.

While some change can be good, regulars need have no fear — Fox’s is still the same Fox’s Altadenans have come to know and love.

“Fox’s is like Cheers. Everyone wants to go where someone knows your name,” said Fox’s Restaurant co-owner Paul Rosenbluh.

“I was never going to come in and build a gleaming new sushi bar or anything like that because that’s not what this place is. What this area needs desperately is just a good neighborhood restaurant.

Read More »

Thursday, January 11, 2018

Altadena Chamber’s Citizen and Business of the Year Reflect an Artistic Community

Altadena Chamber’s Citizen and Business of the Year Reflect an Artistic Community

The Altadena Chamber of Commerce announces its 2017 Citizen and Business Of The Year. Both honorees reflect Altadena’s reputation as a home for creative people.

Citizen of the Year is Ben McGinty, who has spent two decades promoting the artistic community in Altadena and beyond. Business of the Year is Hugo Arteaga Graphic Design, a one-man, home-based studio with an impact seen both in and outside of Altadena.

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR: BEN MCGINTY

Ben McGinty’s favorite saying is: “You can’t walk a square block in Altadena and not find at least three if not more artisans and their families living there.” And he should know.

A second-generation Altadena native, McGinty opened a vintage and collectibles store in 1994 on Lake Avenue that eventually evolved into “The Gallery At The End of the World” — so-called because Altadena was so far from the usual places where LA artists gathered.

The Gallery was a venue and hangout for LA-area artists,

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Tuesday, September 12, 2017

Altadena Chamber Power Breakfast: The New Community Standards District’s and You

Altadena Chamber Power Breakfast: The New Community Standards District’s and You

The Altadena Chamber of Commerce presents a must-attend Power Breakfast for Business Owners on Thursday, September 14, 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at Altadena Town & Country Club. Featuring Richard Marshalian, Regional Planner, LA County Dept. of Regional Planning and Altadena Town Council CSD Sub-Committee Member.

Now that the Altadena Community Standards District (CSD’s) have been approved by the LA County Board of Supervisors, the Altadena Chamber invites you attend this important Power Breakfast. At this event, LA County Representative Richard Marshalian, will review the new Commercial CSD’s. Richard will answer questions and provide insight into how to apply for building/business permits and navigate through the LA County Regional Planning Department.

Attendance at this event is strongly recommended for business/property owners interested in learning about the new CSD updates while planning for future development. Members of the Altadena Town Council CSD Sub-Committee will also be in attendance to answer questions.

Complimentary breakfast will be served.

Altadena Town &

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Saturday, June 24, 2017

Webster’s Community Pharmacy Launches Beautiful Altadena 91001 Merchandise Line

Webster’s Community Pharmacy Launches Beautiful Altadena 91001 Merchandise Line

Iconic Webster’s Community Pharmacy atop Lake Avenue in Altadena is now home to an exclusive collection of “Beautiful Altadena 91001” merchandise line that includes items for the home, apparel and is designed for those who want to show their civic pride.

The locally designed and manufactured items is a true Altadena effort that will also give back to the community by donating proceeds to community partners.

Beautiful Altadena 91001 merchandise will be sold exclusively at Webster’s Community Pharmacy and an official launch party will be held on Saturday to celebrate the beginning of a new community brand.

“There has been some branding for Altadena, but this is the first comprehensive collection,” said Aubin Wilson of Webster’s Community Pharmacy.

“Altadena, it’s a community that takes a lot of pride in its community – we want to show it off and let the world know that Altadena is beautiful. Here we are nestled in the foothills in the San Gabriel Mountains and we’ve got a great story to tell,”

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Friday, May 26, 2017

North Pasadena Vons May Close

North Pasadena Vons May Close

A spokeswoman for Albertsons, Inc. said Friday that the Vons Market at 1390 Allen Avenue just north of Washington Boulevard may close “in the near future.”

“While we are currently having discussions with the landlord to continue leasing our Vons store on N. Allen Avenue in Pasadena, there is a possibility we will be forced to leave the store,” Jenna Watkinson, Director, Public Affairs for Albertsons Southern California Division said.

The store has operated in that location for 41 years.

“We are disappointed by this situation and sincerely hope we can come to an amicable agreement so we may continue to proudly serve the Pasadena community in this location as we have since 1976,” Watkins said.

Should the Vons close, a vast swatch of Altadena and North Pasadena will have to travel a significantly increased distance to grocery shop.

Read More »

Thursday, April 27, 2017

Webster’s Community Pharmacy and the Road to Small Business Success

Webster’s Community Pharmacy and the Road to Small Business Success

Nobody ever said running a business is easy, but many have endured the trials and tribulations that come with the territory of keeping a small business alive within a community–a feat Webster’s Community Pharmacy in Altadena has made sure of doing for nearly a century.

Owners Meredith and Michael Miller are the self-proclaimed serial entrepreneurs that took over ownership of the iconic Altadena pharmacy in 2010, bringing nearly four decades of experience to the table having previously owned various pharmacies throughout their careers that include the Fair Oaks Pharmacy in South Pasadena and Michael’s Pharmacy in the Green Street Village area of Pasadena.

In celebration of the National Small Business Week taking place April 30 to May 6, Webster’s offers a story worth telling of how to keep the spark alive, the doors open and customers happy in communities across the country in which small businesses account for 99 percent of all businesses in the the U.S.

“Small businesses have to have contact with their customers,

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Friday, April 7, 2017

Altadenans Welcome, Explore Brand New Discount Grocery Store ALDI Just Weeks After Long-Time Ralphs Closes

Altadenans Welcome, Explore Brand New Discount Grocery Store ALDI Just Weeks After Long-Time Ralphs Closes

By BRANDON VILLALOVOS

Dozens of residents and community members of Altadena lined up around the block of the site where the new ALDI grocery store opened for business Thursday morning eager be among the first to shop and explore the brand new store that now sits next door to the once bustling, and now abandoned, Ralphs.

The discount grocery store on the southeast corner of Lake Ave. and Calaveras in Altadena is the first of its kind in the area for the midwest-based ALDI, which launched a series of California stores last year and offers a wide range of premium groceries at prices up to fifty percent less than the competitors.

“We know Altadena residents are looking for a great value and quality groceries they love,” said John Alvarez, Moreno Valley Director of Operations ALDI. “By offering quality exclusive brand products at affordable prices, ALDI is the answer to customer’s needs. Whether shoppers are looking for USDA Choice meats, organic fruits and vegetables or gluten-free options,

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Tuesday, February 7, 2017

Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger Joins the Altadena Chamber for a Power Breakfast on Thursday

Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger Joins the Altadena Chamber for a Power Breakfast on Thursday

The Altadena Chamber of Commerce will be having Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger as Guest Speaker at its Power Breakfast on Thursday, February 9, at the Altadena Town and Country Club, located at 2290 Country Club Drive in Altadena.

Meredith Miller, Vice President of the Altadena Chamber, said in an email that Barger could share what are the current issues now being discussed at the County Board of Supervisors.

Barger will also introduce herself as the new LA County Supervisor to the Altadena community.

“This will be one of the most important Power Breakfast events of 2017,” Miller said. “We welcome Supervisor Barger to our community and look forward to hearing what is happening with the LA County Board of Supervisors and how we are impacted in Altadena. As you know, the Supervisors are slated to vote on the final version of Altadena CSD’s later this month, there will likely be a discussion at this event.”

The Altadena CSD (Community Standards District),

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Saturday, February 4, 2017

An Evening of ‘Artist Types’

An Evening of ‘Artist Types’

A banquet room packed with business owners, neighbors, and what Altadena Chamber of Commerce President Billy Malone endearingly called “those artist types” celebrated home and community Friday at the 93rd Annual Altadena Chamber of Commerce Awards and Installation dinner.

The evening honored 2016 Citizen of the Year Elliot Gold, founder of the Altadena Coalition of Neighborhood Businesses (ACONA), and Business of the Year Open Studios Alta/Pasa/Dena owners Mary and Patrick Gothard, and featured a small squadron of government representatives, including Congresswoman Judy Chu, LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger and staffers from the offices of Assemblymember Chris Holden and State Senator Anthony Portantino, as well as Okorie Ezieme, of the Altadena Town Council, and Daniel Harlow of the Altadena Chamber.

Each office presented a certificate of recognition to Gold, as well as to the Gothards.

In addition to the honoring of Gold and the Gothards, the 2017 Chamber board was officially installed, with President Malone, now serving a second term; Vice President Meredith Miller;

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Friday, February 3, 2017

Altadena Chamber Board February Meeting Cancelled

Altadena Chamber Board February Meeting Cancelled

The Altadena Chamber of Commerce and Civic Association has cancelled its board meeting for February, the chamber announced Thursday.

The next board meeting will be on Tuesday, March 7, starting at 9 a.m., at the Altadena Community Center at 730 E. Altadena Drive, Altadena.

The meeting is open to all members of the chamber and the general public.

For more information, call (626) 794-3988 or send an email to office@altadenachamber.org or follow on Facebook, www.facebook.com/AltadenaChamber.

Read More »

Friday, January 6, 2017

Altadena Chamber of Commerce Names 2016 Citizen and Business of the Year

Altadena Chamber of Commerce Names 2016 Citizen and Business of the Year

A neighborhood activist and an organization that promotes and supports local artists were named as Citizen and Business of the Year for 2016 by the Altadena Chamber of Commerce and Civic Association.

Author Elliot M. Gold, co-founder of the Altadena Coalition of Neighborhood Associations (ACONA), was named Citizen of the Year for his lifetime of work bringing neighbors together. Business of the Year went to Open Studios Alta/Pasa/Dena, which hosts a twice-yearly tour of artist studios in Altadena and north Pasadena.

The winners will be honored at the Chamber’s Annual Awards and Installation Dinner on February 3, 2017, at the Altadena Town & Country Club.

 

Citizen of the Year: Elliot M. Gold: Good Neighbor

Elliot M. Gold has spent 45 years in Altadena building up his neighborhood — and the neighborhood is all of Altadena.

Gold, 72, was named 2016 Citizen of the Year as one of the founders of the Altadena Coalition Of Neighborhood Associations (ACONA),

Read More »

Tuesday, January 12, 2016

Altadena Chamber of Commerce Names 2015 Citizen and Business of the Year

Altadena Chamber of Commerce Names 2015 Citizen and Business of the Year

The Altadena Chamber of Commerce and Civic Association (www.altadenachamber.org) has named its 2015 Citizen and Business of the Year.

The Citizen of the Year is Dr. Jane Brackman, President of the Altadena Historical Society and nationally-known scholar on the interaction of dogs and culture. The Business of the Year is Two Dragons Martial Arts, Shelene Hearring, CEO.

The honorees will be recognized at the Chamber’s annual installation event at the Altadena Town & Country Club on Feb. 5, 2016.

Citizen of the Year: Jane Brackman, Ph.D, President, Altadena Historical Society

As the one who guides the team that maintains Altadena’s attic, Citizen of the Year Jane Brackman came into preserving history in a roundabout way.

She’d always been interested in historic architecture. As an art education teacher, she created a high school course on the history of architecture. Later, she worked for the city of Chicago issuing film shooting permits when she met her husband, film and television director Rod Holcombe.

Read More »

Thursday, December 17, 2015

Shop, Sip and Sparkle for the Holidays Tonight

Shop, Sip and Sparkle for the Holidays Tonight

Everyone wants a little extra sparkle for the holidays. This year, sip a bubbly signature cocktail shop and treat yourself to a new-vintage fashion-forward accessory from ALUXE at Meredith M. This is the store’s fourth Shop, Sip and Socialize event and the first to include a live trunk show.

The ALUXE trunk show will feature a collection of new- vintage luxury accessories comprised of up-cycled items all made with forgotten treasures that are spotlighted and given a new life. Each piece is unique and special. Founder and creator, Anthony Guthmiller, will be in attendance. Guthmiller began ALUXE in 2013 after spending 12 years hand embroidering a quilt as a surprise for his mother. Upon its completion, he decided to apply hand embroidery to a tie and thus, ALUXE was born. Anthony continues to evolve the brand into unique and different areas including sparkling hair accessories, cufflinks, occasional furniture and more.

Finish up your holiday shopping at Meredith M, a trend-friendly women’s apparel and fashion accessories boutique with a selection of gifts and clothing for babies and toddlers.

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Thursday, September 10, 2015

Job Opportunities Announced at Webster’s Community Pharmacy and Meredith M

Job Opportunities Announced at Webster’s Community Pharmacy and Meredith M

Do you have a passion for working with people and love to sell? Do you love books, fashion accessories, stationery, toys and games and have a sweet tooth? Or do you love fashion an have an eye for the trends? Are you a seasoned sales professional who loves to play dress up with customers and takes pride in helping them select the perfect outfit?

If you answered yes to any or all of these questions – both Webster’s Community Pharmacy (Webster’s) and Meredith M, anchor retailers on the emerging North Lake Avenue corridor in Altadena, are looking for qualified full-time sales specialists to join their team.

Webster’s is a full service pharmacy also known for its extensive gift department where buyers can find hard-to-find retro toys, candy, gifts, greeting cards, stationery, books, jewelry and fashion accessories.

Meredith M is now a go-to destination for affordable and trend-friendly women’s apparel and fashion accessories boutique that also features a selection of gifts and clothing for babies and toddlers.

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Monday, September 7, 2015

The Altadena Chamber Presents “The Lake & Mariposa End-Of-Summer Sale” on September 12

The Altadena Chamber Presents “The Lake & Mariposa End-Of-Summer Sale” on September 12

The Altadena Chamber Of Commerce is hosting the second Lake & Mariposa “End-Of-Summer Sale” on Saturday, September 12, from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. The streets will be lined with outdoor tables of merchandise from many participating neighborhood businesses. Great bargains, pre-holiday deals and giant discounts will draw everyone in the community to this exciting event! To keep people in the shopping mood, some local restaurants will also be offering delicious menu items at street-side tables.

Come Early For Best Deals Many participating stores will have their best savings out early, so make sure to come in the morning for the freshest bargains. For residents who aren’t familiar with all the stores and restaurants in the Lake/Mariposa District, this is a great opportunity to acquaint themselves with new businesses, such as Carciofi Design, Meredith M and old favorites like Steve’s Bikes, Gallery McGinty and Webster’s Community Pharmacy.

Sponsoring Altadena Chamber Businesses: Webster’s Community Pharmacy, Gallery McGinty, Meredith M, Altadena Hardware, Steve’s Bikes,

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Friday, August 7, 2015

Chamber of Commerce Hears About the Minimum Wage Increase (and More) from County Mayor Antonovich

Chamber of Commerce Hears About the Minimum Wage Increase (and More) from County Mayor Antonovich

The Altadena Chamber of Commerce hosted Los Angeles County Mayor Michael D. Antonovich for a Thursday morning Power Breakfast.

After a “warpath outreach” the Altadena Chamber memberships have grown over 300% from less than 30 members one year ago to now more than 100.

Antonovich briefed the more than 50 attendees on important legislation that could impact business in Altadena including the recent approval of a minimum wage hike.

“We were not successful in defeating the minimum wage increase,” said Antonovich, who had cast one of the two votes against the measure that will incrementally raise the minimum wage to $15 by 2020 for the 1.5 million people living in unincorporated parts of the County like Altadena.

“It doesn’t help the unincorporated parts when they are located next to the city. It should be done at the state level,” Antonovich said.

Ed Wascahtka, who attended the meeting, said that the Pasadenan’s for a Liveable Wage group hopes to “fix” the discrepancy between the adjacent Pasadena and Altadena minimum wages within the upcoming months.

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Monday, July 20, 2015

Board of Supervisors Votes Tuesday on Minimum Wage Increase for Altadena

Board of Supervisors Votes Tuesday on Minimum Wage Increase for Altadena

The Board of Supervisors of Los Angeles County will vote Tuesday whether or not to pass the proposal to raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour within unincorporated areas in the county, including Altadena. The current statewide rate is $9 per hour.

Earlier, the city of Los Angeles passed a similar wage increase that would gradually take effect up to 2020, to the elation of labor groups.

Judging from recent statements from Board Member Hilda Solis, 1st District, the county proposal would likely get the majority it needs to pass on Tuesday.

Solis had earlier balked at the proposed increase, but after commissioning a study of small businesses in unincorporated areas, she said her concerns had been addressed.
She confirmed she would be voting for the proposal.

“Yes, it’s going to happen,” Solis told the Los Angeles Times. “I’ve been supportive since the beginning, but I wanted to make sure that county resources were focused in on how we move through the transition.”

Solis and Supervisor Don Knabe are proposing to create a group to help small businesses through the transition to the higher wage by adopting measures that would waive permit fees,

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Wednesday, July 1, 2015

Developer Unveils “Altadena Marketplace” Plans for the Webster’s Building

Developer Unveils “Altadena Marketplace” Plans for the Webster’s Building

An owner of the Webster’s Building today described in detail his company’s plan to convert 7,000 square feet of the historic landmark building into a contemporary marketplace.

Fareed Kanani, a principal in Greenbridge Investment Partners, said the proposed Altadena Marketplace could house seven tenants offering innovative cuisines and artisanal products in the three south-most units.

A brochure produced Greenbridge touts the “historic Webster’s Building” at 2450 North Lake Avenue as the perfect setting for a food hall that could transform a community hub into an incubator for independent businesses and startups.

The brochure goes on to suggest possible retailers appropriate for the seven spaces would be a Deli style sandwich shop, a café with bakery , an espresso and freshly-baked pastries shop, a florist, craft beer sales, pizza, and a cheese and wine vendor.

“We’re going to focus on bringing in a farmer’s market-style feel that will have between five to six different uses with a common area that will allow for big party or small group sitting,” Kanani said.

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Wednesday, June 17, 2015

Altadena Chamber of Commerce Serves Up a “Power Breakfast”

Altadena Chamber of Commerce Serves Up a “Power Breakfast”

The Altadena Chamber of Commerce served up a power breakfast Tuesday morning at the Altadena Town and Country Club with a side helping of Social Media.

It wasn’t enough to fill up on coffee, danish, rolls, bagels and fruit. Oh no, we were served a generous helping of Social Media as well. Who would have thought going to breakfast would mean facebook, twitter, Instagram, pinterest, linkedin, snapchat and google would also be on the menu. It was and enjoyed by all in attendance. Bon appetit!

The panelists for the Social Media presentation were Aubin Wilson of Aubin E. Wilson & Associates and Hugo Arteaga of Hugo Arteaga Graphic Design. And were they ever on point. It was billed as a beginner’s class. Aubin and Hugo delivered a simplistic, easy to understand outline of what Social Media is all about and the importance of it to your business. They outlined the top Social Media sites/applications that are good for your business and have the greatest reach.

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Thursday, June 11, 2015

Power Up Your Business With Social After You Attend The Altadena Chamber’s “Power Breakfast”

Power Up Your Business With Social After You Attend The Altadena Chamber’s “Power Breakfast”

Learn why you should be using social media to build your business at the Altadena Chamber of Commerce third “Power Breakfast” meeting on Tuesday, June 16, at the Altadena Town & Country Club. During this month’s meeting, current and prospective members will watch and participate in a presentation and panel discussion on the basics of social media and why businessmen should be using it.

The chamber announced that the presentation will cover all the digital media platforms – from Facebook to Pinterest – necessary to make an online statement in today’s competitive marketplace.

The guest panelists will be Aubin E. Wilson, who brings over 25 years of business and digital marketing expertise, and award-winning graphic designer Hugo Arteaga.

“We are excited to bring the Power Breakfast Program to the Altadena business community,” says Meredith Miller, Chamber President. “We recognize that we have a diverse range of enterprise here, from brick & mortar, to service-oriented, to many home-based as well.”

The Altadena Chamber of Commerce started the Power Breakfast Series to offer local business professionals the opportunity to network,

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Wednesday, May 13, 2015

El Patron Turns Cinco

El Patron Turns Cinco

One of our favorite Mexican restaurants is turning five years old, and everyone is invited to the fiesta.

Owner Alex Cortes is planning a major bash celebrating this milestone on May 15, 2015.

“We would like people to come and have a good time and celebrate our anniversary,” says Cortes.

There will be mariachi playing for hours, dancing, and of course, classic El Patron food.

Cortes is indeed grateful for the support locals have shown to his restaurant throughout these years…and this party is his way of thanking everyone.

“Five years…it doesn’t seem like a lot but it’s a long time. We’ve had a great welcome from the community. All I want to do is give back,” says Cortes.

He is also thankful for his competent and able staff: “I would say always if my employees are happy, my customers are going to be happy.”

This anniversary dinner will also benefit charity as well.

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Wednesday, April 1, 2015

El Patron offers traditional Mexican food with a few delicious twists

El Patron offers traditional Mexican food with a few delicious twists

It’s no secret that here in Los Angeles, we love our Mexican food. Everyone has their spin, but by now we all know what good Mexican food tastes like.

While everyone has their favorite, it’s always fun to try something new and discover a new favorite. How about venturing to the almost-top of Lake Avenue for your next venture?

“You’re treated like my guest as if you’re coming into my house,” says Alex Cortes, owner and founder of El Patron Mexican Restaurant.

Celebrating its fifth year on May 15, 2015, El Patron continues to whip up authentic Mexican dishes like tacos, quesadillas, fajitas, burritos, enchiladas, and many more.

Some of their must-have specials are Steak Picado, diced steak grilled with onions, bell pepper, tomatoes, and the chef’s special salsa; Chile Colorado, diced steak grilled with onions and special red salsa; and Carnitas Plate, deep fried pork served with tomatoes, onion, and cilantro.

Cortes says that the Carnitas is one of the bestsellers,

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